Retirement today march:april by Amra Media Solutions

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R E T I R E M E N T

www.retirement-today.co.uk

The magazine for pre and post retirement

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Issue 80 Mar/Apr ‘15 £2.90

Your Queen Awaits.

Cunard’s three Queens – Queen Elizabeth, Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria – all create distinctive and memorable experiences every journey they make. No matter where in the world you choose to explore, you’ll ﬁnd your Queen and her crew waiting to create your perfect holiday. As you travel to fascinating ports in true comfort and style, your ship has countless luxuries to discover and enjoy.

Forever Cunard.

Many Cunard cruises sail from and return to Southampton with durations of three to 28 nights. With a range of destinations on oﬀer, there’s a holiday to suit every adventurer, sun seeker and city explorer.

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Mediterranean Highlights 16 nights

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Around Britain

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Car parking or coach transfers or on board spending money of $135 H

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Complimentary Car parking or coach transfers or on board spending money of $90

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To receive an exclusive 5% saving, call Cunard directly on 0843 374 2282 quoting 000GEN or visit www.ourcruisepartners.com Terms and Conditions: Fares shown are per person in £ sterling based on two adults sharing the lowest grade of stateroom available, or single occupancy in a single person stateroom, within the applicable stateroom type and are subject to availability. Fares for sole occupancy and supplementary fares are available on request. Fares and other information are correct at the time of going to press. For full Cunard terms and conditions please refer to the Cunard Second Edition May 2015 - May 2016 brochure. This brochure contains full descriptions of the cruises, stateroom accommodation and itinerary details, as well as important information on passport, visa and health requirements and booking conditions. The 5% discount is applicable to new bookings only.

CONTENTS

4 Learning after Retirement You’re never too old to learn. Subscribing to a course in retirement is an excellent way to fill your time. Alastair Walbanks looks at some of the options.

WELCOME TO RETIREMENT TODAY MAGAZINE

8 Deliciously Irish

Ireland’s rich culinary heritage is being rediscovered and the country is fast becoming one of Europe’s most exciting food destinations. Try these tasty Irish recipes.

10 Update Foreign & Commonwealth Office urges British Nationals to learn more about their destination before moving abroad; When I’m 64 – why the NHS could have to cope with one million more 50 plus people with serious illnesses in 10 years; Time running out for future expats to adapt to pension rules shake-up; ‘Pretirement’ becomes the new norm as people continue to put off taking their pension.

11 Heartwarming Food for Family and Friends

Easy and irresistible recipes from founder and chief Higgidy pie maker Camilla Stephens.

Top right: Deliciously Irish by Nuaa Cullen,Photography Tony Briscoe, Pavilon. Bottom left: Style Me Vintage:Home by Keeley Harris, Photography by Heather Hobhouse, Pavilon Bottom right: Hollycats, intro by Gareth Abbott, Photography John Kobal Foundation, ACC Editions

12 The Pension Changes – What it can mean to you

New measures which come into force on 6 April, represent a complete shake-up of the UK’s pension system. Read about the changes and how it may affect you.

14 Footloose in Keukenhof Following our Footloose series, Debra Rixon visits the beautiful region of Keukenhof in The Netherlands.

16 Book Reviews Coffee table books – some of the best!

18 Hollywood Cats

A selection of photographs, taken during the golden age of Hollywood, of stars with their cats.

21 Out and About Read about events taking place nationally.

22 Coping with Psychological Effects of Illness

Tips for providing social and emotional support when supporting a partner, parent, child or friend who has an illness.

24 Subscribe

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25 Rehoming Bethany Bishop looks at the benefits of rehoming an animal and the many to ways support and enjoy owning a pet.

• Tel: 01296 632700

28 Competitions

• Fax: 01296 632720

A chance to win theatre tickets and an inspiring how-to draw book.

• Email: info@amramedia.co.uk

30 1940’s Home

• www.retirement-today.co.uk • Designed by: Tom Evans Design All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Although every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information and the advertisements contained within the magazine, the publishers cannot accept any liability. Retirement Today would be pleased to receive your articles and photographs for possible publication. Although all reasonable care will be taken the magazine can assume no responsibility and contributors are advised to retain a copy.

People think that the 1940s were a drab time, but from a home interiors perspective it was not all doom and gloom. Read about some of the main design influences in this period.

33 Charity News Change your Life; The otter, badger, polecat and weasel; Cat-lover Liz receives prestigious IFAW award.

34 Are you ready to become a grandparent? Be prepared! Dr Lynda Shaw writes about how the role and demands on grandparents are changing and how unexpected friction and conflict can often occur if you’re not prepared.

WIN

PAGE 28

LEARNING AFTER RETIREMENT

Learning After Retirement

o some retirement is an event to look forward to with happy anticipation, to others it’s something they approach with trepidation, either way it’s a new chapter in one’s life. I want to dispel the myth,“You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” There are many educational institutions and establishments offering a variety of courses popular with retired people. Subscribing to a course in retirement is an excellent way to fill your time, meet new people and can also create a sense of achievement and self-worth that may have waned slightly now that you are no longer part of the ‘machine’. Such an institution is Central Saint Martins located near King Cross, London, and one of the six colleges making up the University of the Arts London. Art, Design, Fashion and Performance are just some of the courses provided by CSM. When students join a short course, they join the Central Saint Martins community accessing the state of the art studios and the library. All classes are small allowing for maximum teaching contact and ensures that students are given the opportunity to improve and develop their skills RETIREMENT

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Shauna Scott, Sales and Marketing Co-ordinator, said, “We find students over 60 on a wide range of courses, including graphics, jewellery fashion, business and writing courses.” Shauna went on to say, “The benefits of enrolling in one of our courses include the community feeling and sense of structure that comes with attending weekly sessions. The short courses provide opportunities to meet new people, learn new skills, all while enjoying the buzz of ‘being in art school’” Cliona De Bhaldraithe Marsh was 67 and retired when she studied at CSM. Former Head of School of Languages and Literature, University College Dublin, Cliona, who took a course in ‘Stone Setting in Silver Jewellery’ said that the best things she liked about the course was the enthusiasm in the workshop due to the engaging nature of the course and her tutor, Anastasia Young, of whom she couldn’t speak highly enough stating, “Her preparation is exemplary; very clear written hand-outs accompanied by a step-bystep practical demonstration; all questions were dealt with, I never heard the words ‘no’, ‘not correct’ or ‘not that way’. She is very patient and motivating.” This was Cliona’s first course at CSM but she is determined to return.

Cliona’ courtesy of CSM

By Alastair Wallbanks

Another past student is 52 year old Lisa Hillerdal from Stockholm who chose ‘Enhanced Illustration – Pencil, Paint and Pixels’. This is the second course Lisa has taken at CSM. What she likes so much about it is being able to use ‘traditional’ artistic skills together with new modern digital techniques. She says, “I have learned to use my artistic ability with the computer. It’s just not all learning to use a computer programme, it really is enhanced illustration.” She continued saying, “My tutor, Bill Wright, is great, he’s very ambitious I’ve learned a lot.” Lisa is considering returning for a third course. Another institution is Manchester Metropolitan University. MMU was awarded university status in 1992 and is part of the largest higher education campus in the UK and one of the most extensive education centres in Europe. It offers more than 1,000 courses and qualifications, the majority of which have a strong professional bias. Manchester Writing School Manager, James Draper, said, “Our MA Creative Writing programme

visitors and the generosity of donors, trust funds and grant bodies to finance their activities. FSC philosophy is, “The more we know about and take inspiration from the world around us the more we can appreciate its needs and protect its diversity and beauty for future generations.” Many of their courses are popular with retired people particularly walking, painting, photography and natural history. Some retired people also visit FSC with younger family With over 500 members on their Real courses there is so Family Holidays. much choice so it is Their aim is to inspire people to learn about difficult to choose the environment, all the courses focus on the Anglia Leisure Learning have their head office in Bury St. Edmonds, Suffolk but use venues in East Anglia, the Midlands and on the London/Essex border, mainly hotels. Their courses run at weekends, from Friday afternoons to Sunday afternoons with the first class taking place on Friday evening after dinner. Fees include meals, use of hotel spas and swimming pools. The courses provided include portrait photography, learning RETIREMENT

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Learning After Retirement

providing informative and enjoyable opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. They have a network of centres in stunning locations around the UK from the Scottish Highlands to South Devon. Marketing Officer, Mel Cousins says, “All of them are situated in beautiful landscapes with unique wildlife nearby, many are also in or close to National Parks.” For arts holidays there’s Flatford Mill, located in ‘Constable Country’, Suffolk - the place which inspired John Constable, and a wonderful spot to be creative. FSC is an independent charity receiving no statutory funding and therefore relies on fees paid by

attracts a high number of mature Keeping the mind young students, many of those are retired, through mental and ranging from those in their 50s and physical challenges can 60s who’ve recently taken early benefit every aspect retirement, right up to students in of health as well their 80s and 90s.” The end product of the course is as increasing a full-length book (a novel, poetry self-confidence collection, or book for children or young adults) which is developed it provides us with structure, social through a series of writing workshops interaction and meaning, and the and completed under the one-to-one prospect of losing this is worth supervision of an established writer. looking at in advance. I aim to help James added, “Students cite this people to approach the challenge as a major draw and retired people, with realism and creativity.” through virtue of having lived, Alicia Carey, principal, says, tend to have some of the most “Keeping the mind young through interesting stories to tell and are mental and physical challenges can looking for the opportunity to share benefit every aspect of health as well and cultivate their as increasing self-confidence.” work in a supportive Former student Lynne Churchley environment.” from Hampshire said, “Hawkwood As well as Creative has had a profound effect on my life Writing they are and I can’t wait to return.” broadening their In the heart of Wiltshire is portfolio of courses Marlborough College Summer offering online School. In 1974 Brian Ashley, Head through distance of PE at the College, was given learning. For entry permission to have a trial run. This from September convinced the authorities that a 2015 these will Summer School should start in include MA’s in earnest in 1975 when 210 people Creative Writing, attended 20 courses over a period of English Studies – two weeks. The Gothic, Teaching Since then the Summer School English as a Foreign was extended to three weeks and the Language, European introduction of Children’s Activities Philosophy, European Philosophy became a special feature, making the Aesthetics and History (part enterprise truly a matter of learning time route). at leisure for all We offer a wide Situated near Stroud the family. variety of courses in in Gloucestershire The long term arts, crafts, music, at the southern end success of the of the Cotswolds is nature and well-being M a r l b o r o u g h Hawkwood College, which attract people College Summer an educational School has of all ages charity. Under 2 evolved from the hours by train from London, steady improvement of facilities, the Stroud is near the M5 and unusually wide range of courses, 40 minutes from the M4, so it’s entertainments and the congenial surprisingly central to England. atmosphere, all of which have Katie Lloyd-Nunn, programme enhanced the quality of the Summer manager, says, “We offer a wide School experience. variety of courses in arts, crafts, I asked John Blake of music, nature and well-being which Marlborough College if there were attract people of all ages, including any courses particularly popular retired people who are often keen with people in retirement to which to try different things. Our July he replied, “With over 500 courses Creative Arts Summer School is there is so much choice so it is great because they can do one-day difficult to choose. However, retirees or weekend courses in a variety have a propensity to choose arts and of subjects,” crafts based courses as well as history, Nigel Westaway, a retired architecture and literature.” management consultant and now John also said, “There are many artist, offers a day in April entitled benefits in participating such as “Who am I without my work?” keeping an active mind in a relaxing, Nigel believes, “Most of us can social environment. Imagination expect at least 15 – 20 years of needs feeding, whatever the age.” life after retirement. We may love Field Studies Council, FSC, is an our work or we may loathe it but environmental education charity

One of the courses that is of particular relevance to older people is entitled ‘Investment and Generating Income in Retirement’.

the ukulele and solving cryptic crosswords to lace making, beading and patchwork and quilting. Director Liza Jones says, Textile courses are particularly popular with retired people.”

Liza continued, “Anglia Leisure Learning Limited is a relatively new company. After an initial series of pilot courses, the company was incorporated in September 2013. But running adult courses is not new to the team. My colleagues and I have been successfully providing business seminars and workshops for over 30 years.” Anglia Leisure cater for adults only with a fairly high percentage being retired. The friendly, welcoming environment is particularly appreciated by people living alone who come on a weekend course to be pampered and looked after, while at the same time having an opportunity to develop their skills and make friends. One of the courses that is of particular relevance to older people is entitled ‘Investment and Generating Income in Retirement’. This is running in Ipswich in September and in the Midlands in October. All of these institutions can be contacted on line, just by entering their name. There are fees for the courses, so good luck and enjoy. Remember, you are never too old to learn n

The University for World-Class Professionals

Learning After Retirement

MA Creative Writing MA English Studies

Online distance learning available for MA Creative Writing and MA English Studies – The Gothic pathway Find out more: mmu.ac.uk/english/rt Or email: postgradenglish@mmu.ac.uk Visit our Postgraduate Fair on Wednesday 3 June 3-6pm

RETIREMENT

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Special Offer 10% Discount on Weekend Residential Leisure Courses 2015

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Retirement Today

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Our week-long courses, workshops and masterclasses cater for all abilities and are led by internationallyrenowned artists such as Joanna MacGregor, Thomas Gould and Emma Kirkby. Come and sing in our choir, play jazz with Andy Sheppard or perform alongside folk legend Kathryn Tickell. The Summer School is a wonderful seedbed of creativity and contacts, and there’s an incredible weekly concert programme in addition to all the teaching. With around 80 events, the evening programme includes opera, jazz, classical piano recitals, poetry & improvisation evenings and talks by the legendary Alfred Brendel. Find our more at dartington.org/summer-school

01672 892388 | summerschool.co.uk

Dartington International Summer School 1 – 29 August 2015 RETIREMENT

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Deliciously

The best of Irish Country Cooking

reland’s rich culinary heritage is being rediscovered and the country is fast becoming one of Europe’s most exciting food destinations.

Queen of Puddings

SERVES 6 Here is a lighter version of this perennial favourite, which seems to please young and old alike. 5 eggs 450 ml/¾ pint whipping cream 300 ml/½ pint milk a small piece of cinnamon stick 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 2 tablespoons caster sugar, for the pudding 75 g/3 oz fresh breadcrumbs 4–5 tablespoons raspberry jam 175 g/6 oz caster sugar, for the meringue Separate 3 of the eggs and set the whites aside for the meringue. Beat the remaining eggs and yolks together with the cream, milk, flavourings and 2 tablespoons sugar. Put the breadcrumbs in an ovenproof dish, pour the cream mixture over them and set aside for an hour or two to allow the crumbs to swell. Preheat the oven to 160°C/325°F/Gas Mark 3.

Beef and Mushroom Pie with Guinness

Bake the pudding for 15–20 minutes until set. Allow to cool for

SERVES 6

a few minutes, then spread the jam over the surface. Raise the heat to 190°C/375°F/Gas Mark 5.

Leg or shin of beef is a great choice for slow cooking, for, although it takes a long time to cook initially, it remains tender and juicy.

Beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Sprinkle 75 g/ 3 oz sugar in slowly, whisking continuously, and then fold in the remaining sugar thoroughly. Spread the meringue over the jam evenly and bake for 15 minutes until the meringue is just set and slightly brown, keeping an eye so it doesn’t burn.

900 g/2 lb leg or shin of beef, trimmed and cubed 2 tablespoons plain flour 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 bay leaf 1 fresh thyme spring 1 fresh parsley or sage sprig 2 large onions, chopped 1 carrot, chopped

1 celery stick, chopped 4 tinned anchovies, drained 450 ml/¾ pint Guinness 225 g/8 oz mushrooms 225 g/8 oz puff pastry 1 egg, beaten salt and freshly ground black pepper mashed or baby new potatoes, or crusty bread and salad, to serve

Toss the beef in the flour and brown in the oil in a large saucepan. Tie the bay leaf, thyme and parsley to make a bouquet garni. Add the onions to the pan and toss until they begin to soften then add the carrot, celery, the bouquet garni and seasoning. Mash the anchovies and stir in. Pour the Guinness over the top, stir well, cover and cook very gently until the meat is almost tender, about 1½ hours. (This can be done in the oven if preferred, at 180°C/350°F/ Gas Mark 4.) Add the mushrooms and continue cooking for another 25 minutes. Allow the filling to cool. Preheat the oven to 190°C/375°F/Gas Mark 5.

Deliciously Irish

Transfer the contents of the saucepan to a deep pie dish and check the seasoning. Roll the pastry out on a floured board into a large circle about 4 cm/1½ inches larger than the pie dish. Cut the surplus off in a long strip and press on to the dampened edge of the dish. Lay the remaining pastry circle over the pie, pressing on to the strip to attach it well and crimping the edges decoratively. Make a vent in the centre and decorate the pie with leaves or flowers made from the pastry trimmings. Brush with the beaten egg and bake for 45–50 minutes until the pastry is risen and golden.

Eat this with creamy mashed potatoes or baby new potatoes tossed in butter and parsley or fresh crusty bread and a green salad. RETIREMENT

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Irish Deliciously Irish by Nuala Cullen, published by Pavilion. Recipe photography by Tony Briscoe.

Baked Salmon with a Herb Crust SERVES 6–7 For maximum effect and not too much effort, this baked salmon has it all. Ask your fishmonger to split your fish lengthways into two long fillets. A 1.3 kg/3lb fish will be enough for 6 with side dishes. 1.3–2.25 kg/3–5 lb salmon prepared into 2 filleted sides 2.5 cm/1 inch cube of fresh root ginger 6 tinned anchovies, drained 110 g/4 oz butter 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley 3 tablespoons finely chopped scallions (spring onions) grated zest of 1 lemon 75 g/3 oz breadcrumbs, made from day-old bread FOR THE SAUCE 3 egg yolks 300 ml/½ pint whipping cream 5–6 sorrel leaves, ribs removed, leaves chopped grated zest of 1 lemon 1 tablespoon fresh chopped coriander or parsley salt and freshly ground black pepper Preheat the oven to 160°C/325°F/Gas Mark 3. Mash the ginger to a paste with the anchovies, 75 g/3 oz of the butter, the parsley, scallions (spring onions) and grated zest of half the lemon. Butter a sheet of baking parchment which will fit the salmon and line a large baking tray. Lay one fillet of salmon on the paper, skin-side down, and spread with half the herb butter. Lay the other fillet on top, skin-side up, reversing the wide end over the narrow end of the bottom fillet. Spread the remaining herb butter on top. Cover the salmon with the breadcrumbs, patting them down lightly; season well and dot with the remaining butter. Bake in the oven for 12 minutes per 450 g/1 lb. Meanwhile, make the sauce. Season the egg yolks and beat together. Bring the cream to the boil, with the sorrel leaves and lemon zest and cook to reduce for a few moments. Cool slightly, then pour slowly on to the yolks, stirring all the time. Return to the saucepan and over a low heat, cook, stirring continuously and without allowing it to boil, until the sauce thickens slightly. When the fish is cooked, use the baking paper to lift the fish on to a heated serving dish and strain the buttery fish juices into the sauce. Add the coriander or parsley and serve. Note: If the sauce shows signs of becoming lumpy, scrape immediately into a mini-blender and blitz for a few seconds.

Baked Eggs with Spinach SERVES 4 AS A STARTER OR 2 AS A MAIN COURSE 4 large eggs, at room temperature 225 g/8 oz spinach 1 tablespoon butter, plus extra for greasing 2 streaky bacon rashers a few drops of soy sauce 150 ml/¼ pint double cream salt and freshly ground black pepper chopped fresh chervil

Deliciously Irish

Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4. Wash the spinach and remove the stalks. Chop coarsely, place in a pan with a knob of butter and simmer gently until just tender. Squeeze out the moisture. Grill the bacon until crisp and then chop finely. Butter four individual ramekins. Put a tablespoon of spinach in each, sprinkle the bacon over it and season well, adding a drop or two of soy sauce to each ramekin. Crack the eggs into the ramekins and cover with the cream. Sprinkle the chervil over the top. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the egg whites are set and the yolks still soft. RETIREMENT

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UPDATE Time running out for

future expats to adapt to pension rules shake-up “Brits retiring overseas who fail to plan for the new pension rules that come into effect in April could end up wasting thousands of pounds or running into financial difficulties after moving abroad,” said the OverseasGuidesCompany.com in February. “Relocating retirees are arguably the group most exposed to any potential pitfalls of the imminent changes, which are ground-breaking and less than two months away from going live,” said Angelos Koutsoudes, Head of OverseasGuidesCompany.com. “Not only is it more difficult to reverse a financial arrangement made in the UK after you have moved and become resident abroad, but expats drawing a UK pension also have the exchange rate to manage – when this goes against them, their income in their local currency falls. And expats who wish to use the pension changes to release cash from their pension pot should be aware of any tax liabilities this could incur, whether that be in the UK or their country of residence – finding out the most cost effective way to do this from a tax specialist with experience of helping expats is highly advisable.

‘Pre-tirement’ becomes the new norm as people continue to put off taking their pension New studies reveal that for a fifth consecutive year at least one in five retires say they don’t feel ready to give up work yet, while more than half of these due to retire in 2015 would consider working past State Pension age. The ‘Class of 2015’ is planning a busy retirement – getting fit and returning to education. Going part-time, changing jobs or delaying retirement plans are some of the accepted norms of the modern ‘pre-retirement’ landscape, revealed by Prudential’s latest annual study into finances and aspirations of those planning to retire in the next 12 months. Now in its eighth year, the insurer’s ‘Class of 2015’ study illustrates that the phased or delayed retirements that became necessary for many during the financial crisis are now becoming accepted as the norm. Over a fifth (21 per cent) of people who are planning to retire this year say they don’t feel ready to stop working altogether, a figure that has remained stable since 2011 among those approaching the milestone. In fact, almost a quarter (24 per cent) of people who are scheduled to retire this year have already chosen to delay their plans.

Update

When I’m 64 – why the NHS could have to cope with one million more 50 plus people with serious illnesses in 10 years

New research reveals that the number of people over 50 with a serious illness is set to increase, as the 60-64 age group has the highest percentage of people who are first diagnosed with a serious illness. There is a growing proportion of people aged 80+ suffering a serious illness but a declining prevalence among those in their 60s and 70s. RETIREMENT

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Foreign and Commonwealth Office urges British Nationals to learn more about their destination before moving abroad As estate agents* report a surge in demand for properties in France, Italy and Spain after the pound reached a seven-year high against the euro, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) is urging Britons to think long-term and plan thoroughly before moving abroad. For many, moving to foreign climes to settle down in a place with warmer weather, different scenery and a change in lifestyle is an appealing prospect. But there are many things to consider to help ensure a smooth transition. Here are the FCO’s tips for a smoother move abroad: 1 Don’t rush into buying abroad. Visit the area and consider renting first. Take time to make an informed choice. 2 Do your homework. Visit expat forums to get a feel for the area, and research the local laws and customs. 3 Be part of a community. Making an effort to learn the local language can help you settle in your new home 4 Consider your long-term financial requirements. Find out how exchange rates and inflation will affect your income, pension and/or benefits, and calculate the cost of living. 5 Read up on tax regulations. Research the taxes that will apply to you in your new home and in the UK.

There is evidence of a large increase in the proportion of people aged 80+ having survived a heart attack, while the number of people with a serious illness will increase, the proportion may actually fall.

6 Plan for your health. Take out health insurance until you are registered under the local state system.

2002 to 2013 saw falls in the proportion of people aged 50+ having heart attacks and strokes. But the decade has also witnessed increases in the proportion of older people with cancer.

- Social Security Office

7 Tell us you’re leaving. You need to notify: - HM Revenue & Customs

Research shows that 6 in 10 over 90s have none of the five major serious illnesses studied.

- Department of Work & Pensions

With demand for NHS services already under pressure, new analysis by the International Longevity Centre – UK (ILC-UK) and supported by Engage Mutual, the over-50s life cover specialists, predicts the NHS may have to support up to one million more older people with serious illnesses within the next ten years.

8 Seek independent legal advice. Choose a legal advisor who understands the law in the country you are moving to.

- Your GP

*Investors in Property said the company website had received 20 registrations since the ECB made its announcement.

Heartwarming food for family and friends

An extract from The Higgidy Cookbook by Camilla Stephens published by Quercus at £16.99

Chicken and chorizo with spiced paprika crumble. This is such a super-speedy recipe. Chorizo complements the chicken with its strong, smoky flavour and adds some fantastic colour. We’ve topped it with a spiced crumble that soaks up some of the delicious juices and makes a fine alternative to a puff pastry lid. SERVES 4–6

Chicken Pot Pie A pot pie is a baked savoury pie completely encased in buttery flaky pastry. This one has become a firm favourite at Higgidy and features regularly on the menu for our summer festival season. We can’t reveal the original Higgidy recipe because it’s a closely guarded secret, but this is a jolly good version – perfect for sharing with your family at lunchtime. 45g butter

leaves stripped and finely chopped

35ml olive oil

2 tbsp plain flour

4 large leeks, sliced into fat rounds

300ml hot good-quality chicken stock

2 large shallots, finely diced (or an onion will do)

200ml single cream

500g free-range chicken meat (a mix of breast and thigh), chopped into rough chunks

1 rounded tbsp Dijon mustard

300g good-quality cooked ham, roughly chopped 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary, leaves stripped and finely chopped

Equipment: 1 x 2-litre ovenproof pie dish Grated zest of 1 lemon

1 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp lemon juice

Serves 6 – 8

100g chorizo cooking sausage, sliced into 5mm rounds

75g young spinach leaves, roughly chopped

2 red onions, roughly chopped

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Equipment: 1 x 2-litre ovenproof pie dish; heartshaped pastry cutter

250g floury potatoes, peeled and diced 2 tbsp plain flour 450ml hot chicken stock 150ml single cream 1 cooked chicken (approx. 1kg) from a deli counter, skin removed and flesh torn into large pieces

For the crumble: 75g plain flour 100g dried breadcrumbs 40g Parmesan cheese, freshly grated 1 tsp smoked paprika 75g butter, chilled and diced 1 Preheat the oven to 200°C/ fan 180°C/gas mark 6. 2 Heat the olive oil in a large, deep-sided, heavy-based pan with a lid. Add the chorizo, onions and garlic and cook over a high heat for 4–5 minutes or until the onions begin to caramelise and the chorizo starts to release its oil.

3 Add the diced potatoes and cook for 2 minutes. Add the flour and stir to combine, then pour in the chicken stock and give the mixture a good stir. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered with the lid, for 20 minutes. You may need to stir the sauce after 10 minutes to stop the mixture catching on the bottom of the pan.

A little plain flour, for dusting 800g all-butter puff pastry 1 medium egg, beaten Salt and freshly ground black pepper

4 sprigs of fresh thyme,

For the filling:

3 garlic cloves, finely chopped

150g mature Cheddar cheese, grated

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C/ fan 180°C/gas mark 6. 2 Heat 35g of the butter with the olive oil in a large, deep, heavy-based pan over a medium heat, add the leeks and shallots, stir well and cover. Lower the heat and cook for 7–8 minutes or until the vegetables are soft. 3 Add the chicken and increase the heat. Stir frequently for about 6 minutes or until the chicken is just cooked through. Remove from the heat and add the ham and herbs. Give it all a good stir, then add the flour and stir to coat. 4 Add the stock, stir well and return the pan to the heat. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes, to thicken. Remove from the heat, add the cream, cheese and mustard and stir well. Taste your filling and season with a little salt and black pepper if needed. Leave to cool. 5 Using the remaining butter, lightly grease your ovenproof dish. On a lightly floured work surface, roll out two-thirds of the pastry (about 500g) to about 3mm thick and use it to line the dish, letting the pastry drape over the sides. Pile in the cooled filling. 6 Dust the work surface with more flour, then roll out the remaining pastry to about 1cm thick and cover the whole pie with it, allowing the pastry to come just over the edges. Trim away any excess and press the edges together with your fingers to seal, or use the back of a fork. If you’ve got time and are feeling confident, you can crimp the edges. Generously glaze the top with beaten egg.

4 Remove from the heat and stir in the cream. Pour into a large bowl and add the chicken pieces. Mix to combine then stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice and raw chopped spinach. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.

7 Scrunch up the pastry trimmings and roll them out to about 3mm thick. Cut out some heart shapes and decorate the top of the pie with them, glazing with more beaten egg.

5 Now prepare the crumble. Place all the ingredients in a large bowl. Using your fingertips, rub in the butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. (Or you can do this more quickly in a food processor.)

8 Bake the pie on a baking sheet in the oven for 20 minutes, then lower the heat to 180°C/fan 160°C/gas mark 4 and bake for another 20 minutes or until the top is puffy and golden.

6 Spoon the chicken filling into your pie dish and sprinkle over the crumble. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes and serve piping hot!

Serve immediately with a big bowl of garden peas topped with fresh mint and a knob of butter. RETIREMENT

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Heartwarming food for family and friends

ward-winning Higgidy pies are a firm British favourite. Now, founder and chief pie maker Camilla Stephens brings you easy and irresistible recipes. Here are a couple of our favourites.

The Pension Changes – what it can mean for you

By Michelle Cracknell, Chief Executive, The Pensions Advisory Service

he 2014 Budget, delivered on 19 March 2014, made major changes to the way that members of defined contribution (DC) pension schemes can access their pensions savings. The changes represent a significant shift away from the requirement that a member purchases an annuity and a relaxation in the tax charges that are applied to the withdrawal of funds by members. The “Freedom and choice in pensions” reforms have received Royal Assent. The new reforms will allow members of DC schemes RETIREMENT

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to access their pension fund in full without the need to purchase an annuity. They will be taxed at their marginal tax rate, rather than the 55% rate currently applied. Members will be able to draw on their pension savings “whenever and however they wish after the age of 55”. There will be no requirement to choose a particular product to access their fund. Individuals will be able to choose how they wish to manage the payment, either as a lump sum or through some sort of financial product. As part of this change the government wants to ensure that all individuals making the decision on how to draw their fund have access to good quality, free and impartial, face-to-face advice. A new Pensions Wise service so that all individuals with a DC pension approaching retirement will be offered impartial guidance to assist their decision-making. The new reforms will also change the tax charge for pension funds held at death. As an aside, the Government is proposing increasing the minimum age at the same rate as the increase in the state pension age. So that individuals can properly plan, it is proposed that the first increase would be in 2028 when the earliest age you can draw your pension benefits would rise to 57. It will still be possible for schemes to offer retirement at an earlier age due to ill health. These reforms are available for those with DC pensions. The new reforms are not accessible for unfunded public sector pension schemes, for those already in receipt of a pension from a DB scheme or who have already purchased an annuity. For those in private sector or funded DB schemes, it may be possible to transfer to a DC scheme to access the reforms. Before doing so, it will be necessary to take advice unless the transfer value is less than £30,000.

How much tax will I pay if I cash in my pension fund?

As from April 2015, you will be able to take DC pension pots as a cash sum. 25% will be paid out tax free and the remainder of the fund will be taxed at your marginal rate. For example, if your income is £30,000 and you cash in the £20,000 DC pension pot, £5,000 is payable tax free and the balance will be added to your £30,000 income to calculate what rate of tax you will pay. The same process will apply if you cash in other pension pot in the following tax year or years.You can cash in your pension pot over a number of tax years and this can reduce the amount of tax you pay. (It should be noted that all income needs to be taken into account including savings income and State Pension.)

How do I access the guidance?

As part of the major pension reforms, the Government has committed to support these changes through free, impartial guidance to help people make informed and confident decisions about how they use their defined contribution pension savings in retirement. The Treasury is responsible for putting this service in place. The service will be impartial and available through a range of channels. The Treasury has confirmed delivery partners as • Online guidance will be delivered by the Treasury on www,pensionwise.gov.uk • The Pensions Advisory Service (TPAS) will provide guidance via telephone; and • selected Citizens advice bureaux across the UK will supply face to face guidance at local offices.

What are the changes to tax on death benefits?

This will depend on your age when you die and whether you have started to draw your benefits from your pension pot. If you die before you take anything from your pension, it will usually be paid as a lump sum to your beneficiaries tax-free. You should complete a nomination of wishes form to say to whom you would wish the trustees pay this money. As long as the pot is less than £1.25million, it will be paid tax-free, unless you die at age 75 or older when it will currently be taxed at 55%.

From April 2015: • If you die before age 75 – your pension can be paid to your beneficiaries tax-free, either as a lump sum or through a drawdown account. • If you die age 75 or older – your pension can be paid as a lump sum which will initially be taxed at 45% or your beneficiaries can use drawdown and will then only pay tax at their marginal rate. • If you are income drawdown and die before 75 – your pension can be paid to your beneficiaries tax-free, either as a lump sum or through drawdown. If they choose to buy an annuity it will continue to be taxed as income at their marginal rate. • die age 75 or older – your pension can be paid as a lump sum which will initially be taxed at 45%. If your beneficiaries use drawdown or buy an annuity they will only pay tax at their marginal rate. There will normally be no inheritance tax to pay. Money can pass from your pension pot to your spouse, children or grandchildren. For further information visit www.pensionsadvisoryservice.org.uk or tel the helpline on 0300 123 1047 n

For a life less taxing Relax in a new holiday home with a little tax free help from your pension

CHOICE OF 24 AMAZING LOCATIONS Did you know that if you’re over 55 years old or retired, with a personal pension, you could take up to 25% of your pension fund as a tax free lump sum? Recent changes will make it possible for many of us to take up to a quarter of our pension savings as a tax free lump sum which can represent a signiﬁcant tax break.

Time for a change of pace? Have you considered taking things a little easier and getting more out of life? Holiday home ownership is becoming increasingly more popular as this wonderful lifestyle can suit anyone with a little spare time, whether they are looking for a place to unwind and relax or somewhere to enjoy more active interests.

Park Holidays UK offers holiday home ownership at 24 locations in Devon, Dorset, Hampshire, Sussex, Kent, Essex and Suffolk. Your home away from home and somewhere to escape to whenever you choose for up to 11½ months every year.

Caravan Holiday Homes from £6,995 Luxury Lodges from £84,995

By releasing up to 25% of your pension as a tax free lump sum, you could soon be enjoying your very own caravan or luxury lodge by the coast. You certainly won’t have to break the bank to experience ownership and with holiday homes starting from as little as £6,995 and luxury lodges from £84,995 you could be enjoying your pension, even before you retire.

• Fully furnished • Modern bathrooms • Designer kitchens with integrated appliances • Double glazing and central heating • Brand new and pre-owned models available • A low cost, low maintenance home

*Facilities vary by park, see website for details.

Buy with conﬁdence

Call for a FREE brochure & DVD

0800 138 0477 or visit www.ParkHolidays.com Your hom e away from hom and a whole e lot more !

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The Pension Changes – what it can mean for you

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Footloose in Keukenhof by Debra Rixon

Footloose in Keukenhof

here are over seven and a half million flower bulbs at Keukenhof, all planted by hand and to a precise order. That fact alone is amazing, but it becomes staggering when you actually behold these millions of flowers. The Keukenhof Gardens are claimed to be the best spring gardens in the world, and are open to visitors just two months of the year. The park is the showcase for the growers in the centre of the Bollenstreek, the amazing bulb-growing region of Holland. Keukenhof is The Keukenhof Gardens are situated near the not far from claimed to be the best spring coast, Amsterdam, and gardens in the world originally we had planned our visit to the park as a feature within another Footloose film that we were making; our walk from the Hook of Holland to Haarlem and then Amsterdam. We based ourselves at Katwijk, a delightful coastal village 10 miles from Keukenhof as accommodation was sparse around the gardens. The park gave us unlimited access, and we decided to take a small jib with us to enhance the camera angles – they kindly lent us a traditional wooden beach cart to haul it around in. It wasn’t long before we realised that there was no way we could cut this into a 3-minute feature – it deserved a whole DVD to itself!

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The flower beds are laid out to a precise plan, designed each year by the park’s young designer Jasper van der Zon. Jasper is a charming and very patient young man – he spent a very long time with us, explaining just how he comes up with his ideas and the process by which they become a reality. There are often works of art scattered around the gardens, and these also have to be incorporated into his designs. In addition to these, 50 artists are invited to exhibit one or more of their works in the park each year. The park is divided into sections, and there is plenty to see and do, including a small petting farm, natural play area and classic maze for children. Beside one of the canals is a full size functioning windmill that is fun to go

inside and see the workings. On the little second storey veranda they have carefully roped off the area where the sails sweep for obvious reasons. Nearby is a replica lifting bridge from Amsterdam, and it would not be complete without the Klompenhuis where you can buy real wooden Dutch clogs. Beside the windmill are the electrically propelled ‘whisper boats’. Environmentally-friendly, these boats travel through the beautiful endless bulb fields around Keukenhof in ‘virtual’ silence. The electric boats are specially suited for navigating the narrow and shallow canals in the area, and the trip takes 45 minutes. A carillon stands a short distance away, and it plays, well, you can guess – tulips from Amsterdam!

have to wait your turn. The year we filmed it was a stunning representation of Moscow’s St Basil’s cathedral, but you do need to get above it to see how well done it is. Certain areas of the gardens will be themed by colour, and I especially enjoyed the white corner. But then again, I really loved the rainbow tulips that I walked through with Owen, an Irish gardener. He was one of the most enthusiastic people I have ever interviewed; and also one I had the most difficulty in understanding. His accent was an amazing mix of Irish and Dutch, and the more he tried to tell me, the harder I had to listen to catch his words. He tells us that not one single bulb is left in Keukenhof after May, everything is removed and the ground prepared throughout the year for the next planting – but you may need to rewind that bit and play it again! All the flower beds have the bulb variety and name clearly marked in outside - the stunning displays inside Latin and English. I especially loved the are imaginative and I was stunned to way Jasper had designed them so that learn that they change them every everywhere you looked, something week in the Orange Nassau Pavilion! had to be in bloom. He interspersed The pavilions are packed with different heights of tulips and varieties, flowering bulbs, cut flowers, pot plants so there were no gaps, just glorious and shrubs. The Willem-Alexander colour and texture throughout. He Pavilion shows many thousands of even planned the siting of the daffodils, tulips and during the last ten days of so that their trumpets followed the season it is home to the world’s the sun and were usually looking largest lily show, at you, instead Every year, Keukenhof plants of away. which is truly a special floral display which spectacular. For It is a eight weeks fabulous place you can view from a raised long the Beatrix platform, but you have to wait to visit but Pavilion gives be afraid; be your turn. you the chance very afraid. to enjoy a mass of orchids, anthuriums After one visit, you will return and bromelias. The flowers and plants home determined to completely in these three pavilions are provided re-plant your own garden, armed by 500 flower growers. with inspiration and the bulbs you We met Patricia, a guide, who gave purchased at Keukenhof! us an insight into the history of the The Bloemencorso, or Flower gardens. For centuries, the land was Parade is truly a delight to see, and part of a noble estate, and during the perhaps nostalgic for those from 15th century, game was hunted in the Spalding area of Lincolnshire, the region’s woods and dunes for the who also had their own flower float kitchens of the castle of Jacoba van parades. We went along to a huge Beieren.This is where Keukenhof gets its name – it literally means kitchen courtyard in Dutch.The castle gardens were then re-designed by landscape architects in 1857 in the English garden style, which still forms the basis of Keukenhof today. In 1949, the Mayor of Lisse, together with a number of local flower bulb growers, organized the very first flower exhibition. It soon developed into an annual event, and has become the ‘business card’ if you will, for nearly 100 preferred suppliers. Every year, Keukenhof plants a special floral display which you can view from a raised platform, but you

warehouse in Sassenheim to watch the floats being made and chat with some of the hardworking volunteers. This amazing display of around 20 flower-decked floats, and a whole range of vehicles, travel 40Km through the crowded streets between Noordwijk and Haarlem. Keukenhof is open from 17 March to 20 May 2015. 2015 is exactly 125 years since the death of Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890), and Keukenhof has chosen to honour the famous artist. The highlight of the Van Goghyear is a huge flower mosaic of the artist made up of thousands of tulips and grape hyacinths (muscari bulbs). There are food vendors and restaurants with good facilities; there are luggage lockers and even pushchairs for hire, wheelchairs and mobility scooters. You can also hire a personal audio guide which Jasper hopes in the future will contain all the names of the flower bulbs. 16 shops will sell you Dutch souvenirs and food, and of course, bulbs n After David took early retirement from the BBC, he and Debra have focussed on their own productions, and for ten years have been renowned for their walking films in Europe. For information on all the Footloose films, take a look at www.footloose.tv or watch previews of the walks on Youtube.

WIN

We have 5 copies of Footloose in Keukenhof on DVD to giveway. For a chance to win a copy send in your details quoting ref.FIK to: Amra Media Solutions, 46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, Bucks, HP22 5ES. Closing date 10 April 2015.

Footloose in Keukenhof

The Inspirational Gardens are something quite different from the formally laid out flower beds. They are seven individual gardens, each reflecting some of the current trends in art. Look out for some imaginative and innovative use of everyday objects – they certainly get you thinking. Within the park are five pavilions and each one is individually themed and named for members of the Dutch Royal Family. Not all the flowers are

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BOOK REVIEWS... Coffee Table Books Some of the best!

HOW TO JUG A HARE The Telegraph Book of the Kitchen Edited by Sarah Rainey Foreword by Bee Wilson Aurum Press, £18.99 Hardbook

Features writer Sarah Rainey has taken an array of writings from the Telegraph archives over the last 160 years to GENNARO compile a book which shows that as a Slow Cook Italian nation we have always been a little food obsessed. Some very well known names Gennaro Contaldo are featured, Fanny Cradock, Elizabeth David, Egon Ronay and Robert Carrier Pavilion Books, £20.00, hardback along with many unknowns. Those This is a must have book for the cook and interested in social history will find this book dedicated foodie alike. Does very much just as entertaining as any cook will. what it says on the tin, with an array of slow cooked Italian recipes that are both unfussy and delicious. On each page the ROLEX; author’s passion for the cuisine of his History, Icons and homeland shines throughout and most Record-Breaking recipes are beautifully illustrated. Models A great book for those with a passion for Italian cuisine. Mara Cappelletti and Osvaldo Patrizzi

UNSEEN LONDON

ACC Publishing Group, £29.99, hardback

Perhaps nothing embodies a sense of luxury and wealth more than the Rolex. The watch has Text by Mark Daly been photographed on the wrists Frances Lincoln, £30, hardback of royalty, celebrities, politicians, and sporting great’s world wide. In this 150-pager coffee Peter Dazeley gives the reader a glimpse inside some of the capitals most illustrious table book we go back to the beginning when the company was founded by Hans Wilsdorf building, places they would probably never get a chance to see but are brought and a brief history up to the present day. to life by the extraordinary photographs Illustrated throughout the book is an array of throughout the book. Big Ben, The Rolex’s including period photographs and a Old Bailey, Abbey Road Studios, Lords section dedicated to vintage watches Cricket Ground, the places are diverse, at auction. some abandoned many still in use. The accompanying text by Mark Daly gives us the history and their place in today’s city. A perfect coffee table book for those who HITLER’S WAR love and appreciate our capital city. Jeremy Harwood Photographs by Peter Dazeley

Apple Press, £14.99, hardback

THINK Vintage Interiors by Swimberghe & Verlinde Lannoo Publishing, £40, hardback

Book Reviews

An excellent source book for lovers of all things vintage or just those who want to inject a little vintage style into their home. Inside this lavish coffee table book you will find an array of homes, often the dwelling of interior designers full of style and panache. Inspiration can be found throughout , great for those moving into a new home or anyone who just wants to update an existing interior.

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Signal Magazine might mean very little to the current day reader, but from April 1940 to April 1945, it was a fortnightly magazine circulated throughout Germany and the occupied territories triumphing the Third Reich. The book charts the 2nd World War seen through the eyes of Signal’s editorial team. It starts from the early campaigns and Nazi victories which the magazine brashly triumphs to the later stages when there were no longer victories to celebrate. The magazine instead concentrates on heroism of soldiers and people at the front. A fascinating look at Nazi propaganda, particularly from 1943 when the tide turned against Hitler and the Third Reich.

THE BHF

NEEDS YOU Joining our fight as a volunteer is a great way to meet new people and be part of the team. There are opportunities to suit everyone, whether it’s helping out in a shop, with fundraising or at one of our events. Your time will support the British Heart Foundation’s lifesaving work. Visit bhf.org.uk/volunteer, pop into your local shop or call 0300 456 8353 to find out more.

Steve and Gina BHF volunteers ©British Heart Foundation 2014, a registered charity in England & Wales (225971) and Scotland (SC039426)

BHF_Retirement_Today_185x135_v2.indd 1

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Kim Novak, Columbia Pictures, 1958

Marlon Brando, c. 1955

Novak loved Siamese cats so much that she owned nine of them. She is most famously associated with a witch’s cat called Pyewacket in the film Bell Book and Candle.

Brando obviously loved animals – he kept both cats and dogs, as well as a raccoon called Russell who was a present from his mother.

Hollywood Hollywood Cats

undreds of kittens must have been born over the years – some, like the young cat that sits on Marlon Brando’s knee in a famous scene from The Godfather, found themselves a place in cinema history, but most simply lived out their lives within the confines of the studio lots untroubled by dreams of stardom. There are a multitude of images of stars with cats that lived on studio property, Elizabeth Taylor, Ava Gardner, Lilli Palmer, Arlene Dhal and Cary Grant are all photographed with nameless cats who roamed both on and off set with no fear of eviction. Feeding stations were dotted around the properties and strong bonds were often formed between the cats, the stars and the studio staff.

Extract from Hollywood Cats. Introduction by Gareth Abbott. Photography from the John Kobal Foundation. Published by ACC Editions. Priced £25. RETIREMENT

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Vivien Leigh, 1946 Leigh has been devoted to cats and at one point her daughter recalls that there were no less than sixteen living with the actress a the same time. She is seen here with New Boy. A gift from her husband Laurence Olivier. The Siamese was to become Leigh’s favourite breed. ‘Once you have kept a Siamese you would never have any other kind. They make wonderful pets and are so intelligent they follow you around like little dogs’, she commented in 1948 while in New Zealand with her husband.

Aged nineteen and several years before moving to Hollywood, Kelly worked as a part-time model in New York, advertising among other thing Old Gold Cigarettes.

Hollywood Cats

Cats

Grace Kelly, 1948

Ava Gardner, Universal Pictures, 1946 Between marriages to Mickey Rooney and Frank Sinatra, Gardner was also briefly married to the band leader and musician Artie Shaw. She is photographed here in 1946 with Shaw’s two Siamese cats. RETIREMENT

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Royal School of Needlework Hand Embroidery Courses at Hampton Court Palace

New Millennium London Publisher

will arrange publication of your book Letter only in the first instance Send to: The Editor 34 South Molton Street London W1K 5RG www.newmillenniumpublishers.com

A Taste of Flanders and the Great War Day Classes for beginners to classes for experienced stitchers, everyone is welcome Learn traditional embroidery techniques to a high technical standard on our Certificate and Diploma Course (also in Bristol, Rugby, Durham & Glasgow) Our Summer Intensive Courses make a great stitching holiday Full-time BA (Hons) Hand Embroidery for Fashion, Interiors, Textile Art

www.royal-needlework.org.uk/learn T: 020 3166 6938

London Waterbus Trips

] LITTLE VENICE ] LONDON ZOO ] CAMDEN LOCK

Cruises along the peaceful Regents Canal, through Regents Park, the Maida Hill tunnel and London Zoo. Trips on traditional canal boats, one way or return, with a stopover to shop in the lively bustle of Camden Lock or a picnic in the tranquil elegance of Little Venice, or trips with entry to London Zoo. Daily service April to September, weekends in winter. Discount fares for booked groups.

Tel: 020 7482 2550 www.londonwaterbus.com

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ÂŁ199 per person (based on two people sharing)

Two day guided tour around the Ypres Salient. Visits include Tyne Cot, Essex Farm, Hill 60 and attend the moving Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate. Dates: 11/12 April, 15/16 August, 19/20 September Call 01908 617264 for brochure or visit website for all our WW1 and WW2 tours.

www.riflemantours.co.uk

Out&About... NEW VIKING VOYAGERS EXHIBITION NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM CORNWALL 20 March – 22 February 2017

The Vikings are coming to Cornwall in a new major exhibition called Viking Voyagers. Featuring national and international historical significant artefacts, this exhibition explores what is behind the popular myth of the bloodthirsty raiders, what it meant to become a Viking and shows how their mastery of maritime technology was the secret to their success. Visions of horned helmets, unkempt beards and fearsome raiding fighters carried by longships that were dragon headed war beasts come to mind when thinking of Vikings. However, this new show dispels the myth and reveals that just like us they also wore jewellery, combed their hair and many were entrepreneurs, using smaller boats and ships to do business and seek new opportunities far from their Scandinavian homelands. A chance for you to encounter these Norse voyagers and the people and things they met along the way. Tel. 01326 313388 www.nmmc.co.uk

GOLD Palace of

Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh 27 March – 26 July The beauty and symbolism of gold, from the Early Bronze Age to the 20th century, is celebrated in an exhibition at The Queen’s Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse . Over 60 items drawn from across the entire breadth of the Royal Collection, Gold explores the distinctive qualities Engraved portrait of Elizabeth I, that make this rare and precious metal an Simon van de Passe,c.1616 enduring expression of the highest status, Royal Collection Trust / © Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2015 both earthly and divine. Among the most striking examples in the exhibition are the Rillaton gold cup, from a Bronze Age burial around 1700 – 1500 BC, a gold crown from Ecuador that pre-dates the Inca invasion, and a tiger’s head in gold and rock crystal from the throne of Tipu Sultan (1785–93), ruler of Mysore in India. Tel. 0131 556 5100 www.royalcollection.org.uk

CHELTENHAM JAZZ FESTIVAL

29 April – 4 May

Cheltenham Jazz Festival returns this year with a bold programme, featuring a range of exclusive one-off performances, unique collaborations, special commissions and debut UK appearances from a heady mix of established stars and emerging talent. The festival presents a perfect balance of classic and contemporary jazz, blues, soul and pop from a strong of pioneering acts including singer-songwriter Rumer, one of the queens of soul Martha Reeves, former Dr Feelgood guitarist Wilko Johnson, Califorian blues-rocker Beth Hart, and Dutch superstar Caro Emerald, just to name a few. Also, once again returning as Guest Director, is Jamie Cullen who will appear with trailblazing US jazz funk band Medeski, Martin & Wood. Tel .01242 511211 www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazz

SARGENTS: Portraits of Artists and Friends National Portrait Gallery On until 25 May

Robert Louis Stevenson by John Singer Sargent,1887 A major exhibition of works by © Courtesy of the Taft Museum of Art, Cincinnati, Ohio John Singer Sargent, one of the world’s most celebrated portrait painters. Shown for the first time, see a collection of the artist’s intimate and informal portraits of his impressive circle of friends, including Robert Louis Stevenson, Claude Monet and Auguste Rodin. His sitters depicted in informal poses, are sometimes in the act of painting or singing, resulting in a collection of highly-charged, original portraits. Tel. 0207 306 0055 www.npg.org.uk

The so-called ‘bible’ of garden visiting, The Yellow Book 2015 is the indispensable guide to over 3,800 gardens in England and Wales open to the public on behalf of the National Gardens Scheme (NGS) to raise money for charity. Published each year by the NGS, The Yellow Book contains an essential listing of gardens to visit as well as a county-by-county guide to thousands of welcoming gardens – many of which are privately owned and open just a few times a year. Packed with colour photographs and informed comment, it includes descriptions, directions, admission price, opening times and gardens offering accommodation. Visitors to NGS gardens will also have the satisfaction of knowing that their entrance fee is supporting valuable causes as roughy 80 in every £1 collected at the garden gate goes straight to NGS beneficiary charities. www.ngs.org.uk RETIREMENT

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Out & About

GARDENS OPEN FOR CHARITY

Coping with Psychological Effects of Illness

Tips for providing social and emotional support

ere are some suggestions that you may wish to consider when supporting a partner, parent, child or friend who has an illness: • Take the time to listen to the other person’s thoughts and feelings about the condition. Sometimes he or she will just want someone to talk to, and by offering the time and space where concerns can be processed you are likely to provide enormous support. • Be empathetic towards your friend’s situation. Try to imagine what it feels like. • Don’t be afraid to ask questions. This can often show the other person that you are listening to his or her concerns, that you are interested in the condition and that you are there to provide support. • Don’t assume that you should be able to offer a solution to the problem. Instead, try to visualise yourself as a supportive shoulder to lean on, someone who is there when your friend needs to talk or requires help with practical matters. • You may also want to help the person re-establish the sense of a normal life. This could be achieved by taking the initiative to resume some of your shared activities, if possible, such as going to the cinema, watching a rugby game together, going for a walk and so on. • Be respectful towards the other person’s preferences, wishes and needs. This is especially important when it concerns issues surrounding the illness. • Try to keep an open communication RETIREMENT

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whenever possible. Ask: ‘How would you like me to support you?’ ‘Is there anything in particular you want me to do?’ ‘Is there anything I am doing that I could do differently?’ ‘How and when is a good time to talk about the way we communicate with each other?’

Supporting you as a helper

Another important thing to consider is that the effects of health problems can at times be as challenging to a partner, family member or friend as they are to the person who is ill. It is important also to consider support for yourself, as how you cope is likely to influence how the unwell person copes, and vice versa. When it comes to coping with issues surrounding illness, or indeed with most other forms of psychological difficulty, the state of our family relationships come to feel tense, strained, emotionally distant or volatile, these changes can tip the balance and make us susceptible to increased anxiety, depression and hopelessness. An understanding of how relationships can be affected paves the way for more open communication and improved support, both of which have been linked to more favourable health outcomes. Here are some tips on how you can take care of yourself while supporting a friend or a family member who is unwell: • Do you have anyone you can talk to about your own feelings? It may be helpful to talk to other family members, colleagues or friends. • Keeping a reflective diary to express your emotions, thoughts and ideas can also be very helpful.

An extract from Coping with the Psychological Effects of Illness by Dr Fran Smith, Dr Carina Eriksen and Professor Robert Bor, published by Sheldon Press. • You may want to ask around to see if there is a support group for friends, family members and carers that you could attend. • Although your life may have been affected by a close family member of friend’s condition, it is important that you try to continue with regular activities. This can help to establish a sense of normality. • You are likely to feel worried or stressed by the situation. Physical exercise, yoga, relaxation and any other activities that help you to feel relaxed can help to combat stress. • Don’t be afraid to seek professional support, such as speaking to the medical team to obtain information, or to consider seeing a counsellor, therapist or psychologist to help you process the situation. For most people, family and friends are the most important source of support in the face of illness. A good way to support someone who is unwell is not to be afraid to ask how he or she wants to be supported. Other ways include offering open communication, active and empathetic listening and showing the other person that you are interested in the health problem. However, others within the family can experiences intense emotional reactions on being told of the illness. It is therefore important that you as a supported take care of yourself. There is some truth in the saying that ‘you can’t take care of someone else unless you are OK yourself ’ n

HOPE FOR ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, other dementias and many causes of memory loss. But now there is hope with the development of new medications.

Participating in a trial normally requires attending appointments on a regular basis so that the response to the treatment can be measured.

As well as being the UK’s leading medical group of experts in memory and other cognitive (thinking) problems, Re:Cognition Health is an International Clinical Trials Site Re:Cognition Health is acknowledged as participating in the final stages of global the leading independent UK provider of clinical trials for services. these ground-breaking cognitive health medications.

Trials are usually “double blinded”. This means that neither the participants nor the doctors and nurses involved know which patients are receiving the active medication and which are in the “control” group receiving a placebo.

ARE YOU WORRIED ABOUT YOUR MEMORY?

We help people experiencing difficulty Taking partmemory in a trialand can other bring significant with their symptoms benefits to people with a diagnosis. They of cognitive impairment, which may be are able to access new medicines often secondary to a wide range of conditions years in advance of themorbeing made including stress, anxiety depression, publicly available. They are also of provided traumatic and other causes brain with an incredible level of free healthcare injury and progressive conditions and support. including Alzheimer’s disease. Each trial has athan set of70 entry criteria which With more nationally and typically includesrecognized a confirmed diagnosis internationally brain health which fits studyearly objective; memory test experts wethe provide accurate diagnosis results within specific range; health and and access toathe latest treatments and lifestyle factors and the medications that a support. person may currently be taking.

OPPORTUNITY

Re:Cognition Health is a leading MHRA Centre undertakes In accredited nearly every case, which all participants are international clinical trials for drugs given access to the medication once the in has thebeen finalcompleted. phase of development, trial offering those who are clinically The value of early trials was recently highlighted eligible, access to new drug bytreatments the UK Government’s Chief Medical designed to slow down or Officer, Professor Dame Sally Davies halt progression of memory losswhen in sheearly issued a directive to all NHS Trust Alzheimer’s Disease and Boards other and all other Health Care organisations causes of dementia.

in the UK that all people who have the Re:Cognition Health was selected opportunity of doing so enter a trial. to

feature in the recent Parliamentary

Spaces on of trials limited and with trials Review UK are healthcare leaders. being run in other parts of the world, http://www.youblisher.com/ global competition to get a space is very p/1059756-Private-Healthcare-Edition high.

OURclose VISION Has someone to you been Re:Cognition Health envisages a world of “healthier minds” where our cognitive diagnosed Disease? experts can make early andwith accurateAlzheimer’s diagnoses and provide the best treatments to reverse the reversible and manage proactively progressive conditions causing memory loss and other causes of cognitive impairment.

Our patients choose us because we are highly patient-centric, collaborative and cost effective - if you would like to discuss any concerns or would like to find out if you Participating in a trial be beneficial fornew people with a diagnosis as it means they can might be eligible forcan a clinical trial for treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease – access new medicines well before they become generally available. They also get high please call us onfree 020 level health care and support of3355 charge3536, during the trial.

email us at enquiries@re-cognitionhealth.com, or text usor onask 0780 3243 172 Register a question andclinician@re-cognitionhealth.com one of our specialists will get back to you. Email and one of our specialists will get back to you or call 020 3355 3536

45 Queen Anne Street, London, W1G 9JF 45 Queen Anne Street, London, W1G 9JF

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Rehoming a Pet Why not make a difference when you retire and look at adopting from an animal charity. Bethany Bishop looks at some options

by adopting rather than buying is, surprisingly, sometimes over-looked. This is why Wood Green make it clear they’re always there for you and your pet. All Wood Green animals are micro-chipped and neutered, and leave the charity with four weeks pet insurance cover. More importantly, each pet comes with the guarantee of lifetime support. In other words, Wood Green and their expert team are always there to help after adoption. The priceless promise to help comes with most adopted animals. You’re dealing with organisations who truly want the best. As well as only being a phone call away, KWT also take pets back if it doesn’t work out. Of course, the plan is always to find a forever family. It doesn’t matter how long it takes.The Kit Wilson Trust and Wood Green work tirelessly to rehome, and as long as a happy life is achievable, every pet is kept and cared for.

Take Molly for example;

even sitting comfortably. She badly needed surgery, totalling a cost of £5000. With time, thanks to the devoted staff and the generosity of many, Molly got the help she needed.Without her fosterer though, she may not have made it to her happy ending. Fosterers are the bedrock of the rehoming process, and a key part of Wood Green’s care. Wood Green’s Moggy and Doggy Midwives, for example, get their own bundle of puppies or kittens to foster before they reach rehoming age. Fosterers also open their homes to wellloved pets whose owners can’t care for them due to difficult circumstances, like domestic abuse or hospitalisation. If you are you an animal lover who’s unsure of long-term ownership, fostering

A beautiful bushy pup who found herself facing, what would be, a pretty impossible future… When the six-month-old came to Wood Green it was clear to veterinary staff that something wasn’t right. She was eventually diagnosed with Medial Patellar Luxation in both hind legs.This meant abnormality in the joint caused her kneecap to align incorrectly with grooves in her thighbones. For Molly, it meant they were almost permanently dislocated, causing her trouble walking and

Molly

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Rehoming a Pet

ehoming an animal: it nearly always comes with a warm-fuzzy-feeling and a life-long-friend guarantee. Not all of us realise the many other benefits to be had though. There’s loads of financial, practical and peace-of-mind imperatives for giving a pet-in-need a loving home. Not to mention, the many ways to support and enjoy the brilliant organisations devoted to animals of all shapes and sizes. You should always do your homework when considering rehoming a pet. But alas, this article also presents an irresistible opportunity to talk pooches, moggies and more. There’s certain to be some happy tails (see what we did there) along the way! At the Kit Wilson Trust it all starts with a phone call. Like most charities, they look for the best fit. An easy over-the-phone form is a way to gather lifestyle info, establishing whether a pet at their shelter could fit the bill just right. Unlike sellers and stores, these organisations care about getting to know you. We’re not just talking loveable cats and dogs, you can also home your very own Kit Wilson Trust degu - a lovely chubby furry brown rodent (that’s not the technical definition). Organisations like Wood Green, The Animals Charity also home small animals like rabbits, hamsters, mice and more.There’s even a waiting list for chickens! The peace of mind and support to be had

days at Wood Green; staff couldn’t believe he was struggling to find the home and family he so deserved… Until, he met the Munns. “ We chose to rehome instead of getting a puppy as we heard a rehomed dog will value your friendship that much more. In our experience this is certainly true, and Theo is our new, very well-behaved shadow! Theo looked like an intelligent and relaxed dog, which he is. Watching a video on Wood Green’s website was very helpful in getting a sense of him. We spent nearly an hour at Wood Green in Godmanchester before we sealed the deal. He’s wonderful!” - Mr Munn, a Photographer and Theo’s new owner.

may be for you. It’s important to note that proximity to the centre is essential for fosterers to be considered. Check out Wood Green’s website for full information and criteria before you consider applying. Animal charities across the UK are proud to have a history peppered with happy endings like Molly’s, and Kit Wilson Trust is no different.

Let’s talk about Indi Indi

giving up. He became depressed, and with little hope of finding a home, it didn’t look promising for the blue-eyed boy. Despite his poor prognosis, Phil and Maria Brett decided to offer Indi the opportunity of a home for however long he had. So, in August 2010, he moved in. Four years on, the Brett’s other rescued cats’ Willow, Lilly and Teasel continue to enjoy their brother, Indi. With no relapses and regular check-ups, Indi’s living life as top cat (or so he thinks), and loves nothing more than treats and hijacking pillows for his own bed at night. “Although we don’t know how long he will be with us, we are determined that all the time he is here he will live as normal and happy a life as possible.” - The Bretts

Indi came to the Kit Wilson Trust in 2009 as an eight-month-old kitten; his previous owner’s dogs were terrorising him. From the outset, he suffered a range of medical issues. As well as recurrent bouts of diarrhoea and high temperatures, he was diagnosed with a hole in his heart. Following tests, including having his abnormal spleen removed, he was finally diagnosed with Erythrocytic Mylo Dysplasia (rare form of leukaemia affecting bone marrow). With this, he began a course of strong drugs. The Kit Wilson Trust were told by the specialist he may not respond, in which case there was little else to be done. After a terrible start and a bleak hand, the so-far determined Indi seemed to start RETIREMENT

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Occasionally though, perfectly healthy animals struggle. Staff at Wood Green were baffled why a dog named Theo had been with them so long. A big dog with a lot to give, the Husky Rottweiler crossbreed captured hearts with his handsome looks, and a character as soft as the coats of the Wood Green bunnies! He’d spent over 200

Theo

www.richardmunn.com

- Colette Marshall, Kit Wilson Trust

Similarly, Wood Green is a sanctuary to livein field animals. These guys are included in educational pet-care programmes, which socialises them and teaches responsible care to the young public. Sponsorship and donations sustain lifelong homes, while also supporting the ‘longstayers’ at both shelters. Sponsorship and donations are, in fact, the life-blood for Catastrophes Cat Rescue. From the abandoned and badly-treated, to strays and cats who don’t have great chances at finding a new home, they care for all ages and temperaments; feral or domesticated. Their work has a long reach; the qualified veterinary team goes to Costa Blanca twice annually. In one week, they neuter roughly 300 cats, as well as treat medical ailments. This year however, the venture has been put on hold, as Catastrophes raise funds for veterinary drugs. Rehoming where possible, the sanctuary fundamentally provides a loving home for 250 cats at any one time, right here in the UK. Thanks to sponsors, these cats can live a happy, free life, irrespective of background. Each cat’s medical needs are met, and they’re able to exist peacefully in the open gardens and cosy cathouses. Liz Varney, who recently received an IFAW’s Animal Action Award, and her expert team work untiringly to make it so. It can be a long process for some, but several Catastrophe cats are just a whisker away from living fully…

Rehoming a Pet

Theo

Happy endings are the best, and there’s tons of ways to support all kinds of animals in finding them. Kit Wilson Trust, who also deal with the wild side of things (rehabilitating and supporting British wildlife), rely on sponsorship - be it weekly, monthly, annual or one-off donation. The Charity is also a 25-acre sanctuary, and provides a life-long home to horses, goats, sheep and aviary birds (who can fly about freely with their pals!). “We take in as many animals as we can, and if we have the funds, we’ll make the accommodation! We’re continually overwhelmed by the generosity of the public.”

e id v o r p ld u o c u o y Do you feel a h it w ls a im n a e one of thes ? e m o h g in v lo , e r u c se Max

Freddie

Max is a very loving and friendly cat but is having a little trouble adjusting to life while he waits for his forever home so is often scared and hiding away.

Freddie is an independent boy who is sweet and affectionate. He likes to be wherever there is warmth and can be seen basking in the sunâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rays.

Bluebell Bluebell is a lovely lady that cannot wait to find her forever home. She is a very sweet natured girl who loves her exercise and being active.

Nero Nero is a sensitive boy who needs patient and understanding new owners, he can live with another dog who can help build his confidence.

As well as rehoming cats and dogs, we rehome many other animals including rabbits, mice, guinea pigs, ferrets and chickens. Each animal that comes through our doors is assessed by our experienced team. To enquire about one of these animals, contact a member of our rehoming team at: Call: 0844 248 8181 Visit: woodgreen.org.uk Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bush Farm, London Road, Godmanchester, Cambridgeshire PE29 2NH

WG Rehoming 2015 275x185mm.indd 1

The Animals Charity

19/2/15 16:50:45 RETIREMENT today

COMPETITIONS

For a chance to win any of the prizes, send your name and address (quoting reference code) to: Amra Media Solutions, The Old Lavender Mill, 46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, Bucks, HP22 5ES or email: info@amramedia.co.uk

Win 1 of 5 pairs of tickets to AND THEN THERE WERE NONE on tour!

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Agatha Christie Theatre Company, AND THEN THERE WERE NONE returns to the stage to follow in the footsteps of the company’s hugely successful Witness for the Prosecution and Black Coffee. Starring PAUL NICHOLAS, COLIN BUCHANAN, SUSAN PENHALIGON, MARK CURRY, VERITY RUSHWORTH, FRAZER HINES, BEN NEALON. A group of 10 strangers are lured to a remote island off the coast of Devon. Upon arrival it is discovered that their host, an eccentric millionaire, is missing... Stranded on the island by a torrential storm and haunted by an ancient nursery rhyme, one by one the guests begin to die... With only the fallen believed to be innocent who amongst them is the killer? Based on the best-selling mystery novel of all time, Agatha Christie’s own stage adaptation of this dark and captivating tale will thrill and enthral, as murder unfolds. UK Tour 2015 For information on tour venues and dates please visit www.kenwright.com Terms and conditions apply. Prize is valid Monday – Thursday at a venue of the winner’s choice. Subject to availability. Prize is as stated and cannot be transferred or exchanged. No cash alternative will be offered. We have five pairs of tickets to giveaway. For a chance to win a pair of tickets send in your details, quoting ref. ATTWN. Closing date 10 April 2015.

Win a copy of ‘WHAT TO DRAW AND HOW TO DRAW IT’

‘How to Draw’ was one of 2014’s top Google searches, and this delightful facsimile edition of Lutz’s classic 1913 book, published by Michael O’Mara Books, will inspire you to pick up a pencil. Credited with inspiring Walt Disney, his method of drawing illustrations in simple stages paved the way for generations of artists. Here is a nostalgic masterclass in drawing a delightful range of subjects, from animals and people, to toys, buildings and landscapes. You’ll be amazed at what you can draw! We have 5 copies of the book to giveaway. For a chance to win one of these books, send in your details, quoting ref. WDHD. Closing date: 10 April 2015.

Competitions

Discreet lady antique dealer –

available to visit client in own home, fair and honest prices given. Interested in a wide range of antique, vintage, and 20th century items.

Tel 01296 632706 and speak to Wendy Cummings in the first instance or email chilternvintage@gmail.com RETIREMENT

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Win Tickets for HARVEY at the Theatre Royal Haymarket in London’s West End, starring James Dreyfus and Maureen Lipman

The heart-warming, award-winning comedy HARVEY, is in London’s West End for a limited season only. HARVEY stars James Dreyfus as Elwood P. Dowd (Notting Hill, Gimmie Gimmie Gimmie, Cabaret) and Maureen Lipman as Veta Simmons. (Films include Educating Rita and The Pianist). The lead role of Elwood was immortalised by Hollywood legend James Stewart in the classic film and reprised by Jim Parsons (The Big Bang Theory) most recently on Broadway. Harvey is the story of one man and his unassailable character flaw: an unwavering friendship with a six foot tall, invisible rabbit named Harvey. In order to save the family’s reputation, his sister Veta takes him to see a psychiatrist, but the doctor mistakenly commits Veta, setting off an hilarious whirlwind of confusion and chaos as everyone tries to catch a man and his invisible rabbit! ‘James Dreyfus plays the endearing Dowd beautifully’ ‘No expense has been spared on this fine-looking production’ The Sunday Times HARVEY, Theatre Royal Haymarket, 18 Suffolk Street, London Sw1Y 4HT. Box office: 020 7930 8800 www.harveyonstage.co.uk Performance times: Monday to Saturday 7.30pm, matinees Thursday-Saturday 3.oopm. Ticket prices £16.50 - £56.50 We have three pairs of tickets to giveaway. For a chance to win a pair of tickets send in your details, quoting ref. HY. Closing date 30 March 2015

Frank Meet Fluffy Frank

He’s a strapping big lad true to his name. Right now though, he’s having some trouble on his feet. He’s in urgent need of an operation for a severe ear problem, which is affecting his balance. With one operation already performed successfully, the prognosis for Frank is very positive once surgery is complete. Catastrophe’s Emergency Treatment Fund exists for many moggies like Frank. Be it Dental corrections, infections or other operations, these guys wait patiently to kickstart the lives they deserve. Do you believe in love at first bark/meow? I remember my first pet, a Hamster named Napoleon (not sure why). Particularly, my heartmelt when he stuffed a nut into his cheek!

“We’re a bit like a dating agency. “…It’s sometimes tough finding homes for animals. But when we have a match well - it’s all hearts and roses!” - Kit Wilson Trust

Contact Details:

For more information on rehoming an animal, or details on sponsorship and donations for ‘long-stayers’ at Wood Green, The Animals Charity visit www.woodgreen.org.uk or tel. 0844 248 8181 for general enquiries or for the dedicated donation hotline ring or 0844 875 0150.

Project2:Layout 1

The Kit Wilson Trust For Animal Welfare

Established over 35 years in the South East for the rescue and re-homing of unwanted and abandoned animals, including wildlife rescue and rehabilitation

17/4/13

12:51

As a nation who loves our pets, it’s no revelation that rehoming and supporting homes isn’t just about giving a happy life, it nearly always makes our own that much brighter, too.

To find out more about rehoming a animal from The Kit Wilson Trust or how you can help with a donation or sponsorship, or much needed help with fundraising, visit www.kitwilsontrust.org.uk or tel. 01825 830444.

For Catastrophes Emergency Treatment Fund and how you can help Fluffy Frank and more like him, visit www.catastrophescats.org and click on ‘donate’. Alternatively send a cheque with a note to Half Moon Cottage, Bakers Lane, Dallington, East Sussex, TN21 9JS Tel. 01435 830212.

Page 1

CATASTROPHES CATASTROPHES CAT RESCUE CAT RESCUE

Over the years we have helped an increasing number of cats and kittens in distress, by taking them into our care and finding good homes for them. The cats we take in have often been abandoned or badly treated, some are simply strays who have never had the chance of a proper caring home. Our aim is to help any cat that is in need and we believe that every cat deserves the chance of a good home.

We always have older cats and dogs at the Rescue Centre lookingWe do not believe in putting animals to sleep unnecessarily and we actively encourage sterilisation as a vital part of pet for special Retirement Homes! ownership. Please remember us in your will. Your donation or legacy will help our work for the animals and save lives. Contact Liz Varney

Catastrophes Cat Rescue

Stonehurst Lane, Hadlow Down, Uckfield East Sussex TN22 4ED

distress, by taking them into our care them. Some often abandoned or badly treated; some simply strays who have never had the chance of a proper caring home. We aim to help any cat in need, and believe every cat deserves the chance of a good home. No cat is put to sleep unnecessarily and we actively encourage sterilisation as a vital part of pet ownership Recipient of IFAW Animal Action Award Please remember us in your will. Donations or legacies help our work for the animals and save lives.

Tel: 01825 830444 Fax: 01825 830887 Wildlife Emergency Only - Tel: 01825 830735

CATASTROPHES CAT RESCUE

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER : 1143338 REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER : 270419

Animal Rescue Centre

www.kitwilsontrust.org.uk

our work continues through legacies and donations – we receive no government funding

Contact: Liz Varney

Half Moon Cottage, Bakers Lane, Dallington, Heathfield, East Sussex, TN21 9JS Tel. 01435 830212 Fax 01825 768012 lizzie@internationalanimalrescue.org Registered Charity Number 1017304

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Half Moon Cottage, Bakers Lane, Dallington, Heathfield, East Sussex TN21 9JS Tel: 01435 830212 Fax: 01825 768012 We help cats and kittens in Email: lizzie@internationalanimalrescue.org and finding good homes for Registered Charity Number: 1017304

1940’S HOME MAIN DESIGN INFLUENCES

Make-Do-and-Mend

This was the ‘done thing’ out of necessity, but the principles of doing up and making good use of items instead of throwing them away is a great principle to adopt. Taking something and re-vamping it to be used again can be a satisfying theory to embrace. Think about re-covering chairs, making cushions from curtain fabric or painting old wooden furniture. Think outside the box and search for pieces of furniture that could be used as something other than its original purpose, upcycled and transformed.

Utility Look

eople think that the 1940s were a drab time, but from a home interiors perspective it was not all doom and gloom. Austerity had a positive impact on furniture design — it gave some prominent designers like Gordon Russell, who was involved in the design of utility furniture, and, post-war, Ernest Race and Alvar Aalto, a chance to work with plywood and aluminium to create simplistic new furniture designs.

In Britain rationing was in full swing and household items were being created on tight budgets with limited material available. A range of functional furniture was produced with the help of design professionals such as Gordon Russell. All the furniture and textiles that were issued at this time were marked with the CC41 stamp. Look out for this style of furniture — it’s solid and simply designed and will offer an unfussy and functional look. If you love an eclectic and nostalgic craft-inspired vintage look take inspiration from the 1940s.

Eclectic

Designers of the 40s

1940’S Home

P 30

Why not look out for an original rag rug? The one in this picture was passed down through the family.

The onset of war during the 1940s meant that people did not buy new furniture and often created a look using a mix of various periods. Furniture, textiles and decorative items would be whatever you had. Creating an eclectic look is easy, it just requires you to gather up a variety of vintage items that have ‘a bit of age’ and work them into a fresh and nostalgic look. RETIREMENT

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Gordon Russell — Utility furniture designer George Nelson — American Modernist furniture designer Christian Dior — fashion

Stacks of suitcases give a nostalgic 40s feeling to a room but are also useful as tables and storage. An embroidered fire screen

LIVING ROOM

This pretty 40s-inspired bedroom features a contrast of textiles with florals and patchwork.

Most 1940s living rooms looked much like 1930s ones, but they were becoming tired and worn. The only way to bring a bit of life to tired armchairs was to re-cover them with remnants of material or old bedding. Re-using things and making them into something else is a great concept to employ when creating a wartime chic living room. The results can be surprisingly stylish, all it takes is a bit of imagination.

Furniture

Look for a pair of worn leather armchairs to give that lived-in look. An oak writing bureau is perfect for storage and can even house a modern laptop. Barley twist side tables are easy to find and can be left in original condition or painted. Collect up vintage luggage, they create perfect storage in a living room and look great. Another option is to get a steamer trunk. These are more durable and have a harder case, making the perfect coffee table — you can store your magazines and books inside too.

A selection of framed 40s items including an embroidery sample, sheet music, and a biscuit advert

Finishing Touches

An extract from Style Me Vintage: Home by Keeley Harris published by Pavilion. Photographs by Heather Hobhouse.

Make cushions using vintage headscarves — often silk and with pretty florals they make really nice soft furnishings. Ragrugs were a very popular thing to make in the war years.You can use the same technique and make an interesting rug from old scraps of material or look around for an original at a vintage market. Finish off the wartime feeling with a radio and some cosy crocheted blankets, and you will have a very homely, cosy feel to your living space.

What to Look For: 40s Living Room

Reader offer:

1940’S Home

Worn leather armchairs Embroidered linen or crocheted cushions Rag rugs Wooden or Bakelite radio Steamer trunk with wooden banding Granny square crochet blanket Oak bookcase or bureaux Barley twist side table Embroidered fire screen

Buy your copy of Style Me Vintage: Home (RRP £14.99) for only £12 including free UK p&p. Call 0844 576 8122 and quote offer code CH1908.

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Legacy quarter page ad.pdf

20/04/2012

15:22

Last year we helped over 80,000 wild birds and animals like Rudolph

For 200 years , The National Benevolent Charity has been a lifeline to people who have fallen into poverty and distress and who have nowhere else to turn. People like nurse Leah, 58, and her artist husband David, 63. They wanted a happy retirement together but Leah became crippled with

arthritis and cannot walk.

David is dedicated to his wife

and cares for her full time. But,

the loss of earned income has

Please help me get better

CMY

Not only do we treat more hedgehogs than any other wildlife hospital, but our caring teams save lives every day. Our aim is simple, to treat injured British wildlife, then return them to the wild. Like Rudolph, who arrived badly injured at just five days old. Our specialist care saved this little deer and he is now facing a brighter future. But it is only with your support we can help casualties like Rudolph; please remember Tiggywinkles in your Will.

Our late friend Dame Thora Hird actively encouraged others to help us secure funding for our lifesaving work. In her words "All the little wild creatures and I thank you so very much". For more information please contact: Jenny Babb, Tiggywinkles, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP17 8AF

01844 292 292 mail@sttiggywinkles.org.uk www.tiggywinkles.com Registered Charity No. 286447

been devastating, and they are poverty-stricken. Despite state benefits, sickness, disability and old age can still mean a life of awful hardship. For Leah and David and hundreds of people like them, The National Benevolent Charity can help. The National Benevolent Charity Peter Hervé House, Eccles Court, Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8EH

Come and have a look around our Visitor Centre. Opening times can be found on our website www.tiggywinkles.com.

is the busiest wildlife hospital in the world.

HOME / CONSERVATORY

TOO HOT? Help a Then have Sunblocker window film fitted! Hospice Stops 75% of sun’s heat Stops 80% of sun’s glare Save some Stops 99% of UV rays Lives that cause fading Also available On way Mirror Film and abandoned at birth, he lives with Anti Burglar Film – another twenty-two incurable or faces immediate work costs Allremedial installations terminally ill infants Film and children in simply to keep the children safe from Privacy the wards of St Margaret’s Hospice, Bucharest. Funds are available to cover their nursing, care and treatment costs but the hospice now faces an immediate ﬁnancial crisis. Each year,

Margaret’s undergoes rigorous ﬁre, health & safety, and health & hygiene

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the risk from accidental scalding, of electric shocks or power outages or

Over 500 people will trek to the summit of the highest mountain in England & Wales over the weekend and we would love you to be one of them. Registration is just £35.00 and we ask you to raise £250 each.

If you would like more information about prostate cancer visit the Prostate Cancer Research Centre’s website:

as much as you can aﬀord to help save the lives of infants and children like Raﬁ, who are abandoned as beyond care.

Registered Charity Number: 1001327. Scottish Registered Charity Number: SCO 39383

today

In the UK more than 35,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year. We need your help to find a cure for this terrible disease by taking part in the next Snowdon500 challenge over the weekend of 13th & 14th June 2015.

has approximately £8,000 but needs an

Please visit www.childrenindistress.org to donate at Just Giving online, or call 0141 Falcon 559 5690 to discuss yourBusiness donation, Centre or forward a donation to: Chadderton Rafi, ChildrenOL9 in Distress, House Falcon Victoria Street OHB Suite 30 Ladywell Business Centre, 94 Duke Street, Glasgow G4 0UW.

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Trek To The summiT of snowdon in aid of ProsTaTe CanCer on 13Th & 14Th June 2015.

To register or find out more go to www.snowdon500.co.uk or call Paul on 07446 534436 for an information pack.

0161 627 3133 | 07778481518 sales@window-shield.co.uk

Patron: HRH The Prince of Wales

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roof repairs must be carried out or the hospice will lose its licence to care for its children. The Hospice depending

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For a free copy of our booklet Treating Prostate Cancer – Questions & Answers call: 020 7848 7546 or email: info@prostate-cancer-research.org.uk

snowdon500

Prostate Cancer Research Centre CIO Britannia House, 7 Trinity Street London SE1 1DB. Reg Charity No. 1156027

Charity N E W S

Award presented to Liz by Bill Oddie and Baroness Gale

Cat-lover Liz receives prestigious IFAW award Liz Varney, who runs Catastrophes Cat Rescue from her home in Dallington East Sussex, alongside her partner Alan Knight, who also runs the charity International Animal Rescue, has been honoured for her dedication to caring for cats.

Coronary heart disease is the UK’s single biggest killer, so it’s never been more important to keep your heart healthy. The good news is that making small changes to your lifestyle now can reduce your risk of heart disease. Eating a balanced diet, enjoying regular exercise and avoiding stress all help towards a heart-healthy life. Another easy way to help you look after your heart is to join up to Heart Matters, a free service offered by the British Heart Foundation (BHF). You’ll get a welcome pack with the latest issue of Heart Matters magazine, a welcome from the BHF, recipe folder and a tape measure to check if you’re in healthy shape. You’ll then receive a regular copy of Heart Matters magazine, packed with tips and information including healthy recipes, articles and lifestyle tools. And you’ll also get access to online tools like their great recipe finder and a telephone helpline staffed by Cardiac Nurses and Information Support Officers.

Join today Join online at bhf.org.uk/heart-matters-register or call 0300 330 3311* and start your new lifestyle today.

Know the risk factors You are more likely to be at risk from coronary heart disease if you… • Smoke • Have high blood pressure • Are inactive • Have high cholesterol • Are overweight • Have diabetes • Suffer from stress • Have a family history of coronary heart disease or stroke

Be active! Aim to do at least 20 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity a day, to total 150 minutes a week. You don’t have to take up jogging – brisk walking, gardening and climbing stairs will do the job. Easy ideas you can try include walking instead of driving when you can and taking your grandchildren to the park. www.bhf.org.uk

www.catastrophescats.org

The otter, badger, polecat and weasel Mustelidae! Rolls off the tongue doesn’t it. But Mustelidae are the mustelids that play such an important part in the work at Tiggywinkles. The mustelid family includes such mind-blowing names as wolverines, beech martens, honey badgers and even skunks. They don’t, however, see these species but Britain does have its own representation of this wide and varied family and they are lucky enough to meet some of them. The larger mustelids in this Country are the otters and badgers, both very positively ticked on our roll call. Pine martens are, at present, restricted to Scotland whereas their slightly smaller cousin the polecat has made a miraculous recovery across England. It now regularly features at Tiggys. They even have some orphans ready to be released into suitable habitat. Just a few years ago the polecat was extinct in England with a small pocket clinging on in Wales. Wonderfully, in its former territories and now can often be seen, sadly, as road casualties especially in Oxfordshire. The smaller representatives of the family are stoats and weasels. How to tell them apart? I am not going into the silly “weasels are weasily recognised, while stoats are stoatally different” take sense in that the stoat is always larger and has a black tip to its tail. Baby weasels are tiny. Little pink sausages. At present they have three orphans in their nursery. They are on four bottle feeds a day but will soon wean onto meat and grow into that smaller, but probably bravest of all mustelids. I do tell a lie. They once did take in another mustelid. A foreigner found in a washing machine in Watford, this zorilla lived with them for many years. Nobody knows how it got there. www.sttiggywinkles.org.uk RETIREMENT

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Charity News

Change Your Life

Liz has received a special award from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) at the House of Lords, in recognition of over 40 years of dedication to rehoming and rescuing cats in need. Many of the cats rescued by Liz have been abandoned or are simply in need of a new home because of a change in people’s circumstances or some have been ill treated. Whatever their circumstances, they are all in need of love and care. Catastrophes aim has always been to help any cat regardless of age, temperament or behaviour problems, be they wild or tame. Liz has a ‘no kill policy’ and set up the sanctuary in the idyllic surrounding in East Sussex so cats which would be difficult to rehome could live out the rest of their days in a peaceful environment. Liz said ‘I am delighted to receive the IFAW award which I accept on behalf of the team and the vets who help us so much’.

Are you ready to become a

GRANDPARENT?

the head of the family who dispenses advice but also controls the parent generation. 5. Distant figure: has infrequent contact with the grandchildren, perhaps appearing on special occasions. Ultimately having a baby is not just one of the greatest milestones for the parents themselves, but it is of huge significance for grandparents. Shaw says:“Having had many years raising their own children, adjusting to ‘grandparent’ status can take a little while and unfortunately, it’s not always a bed of roses. Having already raised children of their own, grandparents are keen to pass on their knowledge and wisdom, but persistent advice and opinion are not always well received. New parents ultimately want the time and space to figure things out for themselves and to be the key decision makers and not be told how it should or shouldn’t be done. “By contrast, less confident parents can also become too dependent with help at hand and rely entirely on the grandparents for support, leaving them feeling unappreciated and taken for granted. Situations such as these can become awkward for both parties and if the ground rules are not set from the word go, this can lead to a fractured and unhappy relationship in the long run. A huge number of factors are involved in successful grand-parenting.”

5 TOP TIPS FOR EXPECTING GRANDPARENTS: 1 Spoiling Them

The job of a grandparent is all about the really good bits - shower them with as much love as possible, fun and enduring memories instead of mountains of gifts.

Are you ready to become a grandparent?

he role and demands on grandparents are changing because of new socio-economic pressures, so whilst you’re immersed in the anticipation and excitement of the new arrival, unexpected friction and conflict can often occur if you’re not prepared, according to cognitive psychologist Dr Lynda Shaw. “The role of the grandparents is ever changing. Baby boomer grandparents may take on a huge chunk of the childcare responsibilities whilst mums return to work, whether it’s doing the school run, helping when the children are ill or stepping in to lend a hand during the school holidays. This is not new in society. But now and in the near future the sandwich generation will find themselves still working well into their sixties, both because they can and financially they have to, as well as looking after elderly parents. Therefore, like never before they can’t or will struggle to take on the caregiver grandparent role too.” Although today’s society plays huge part in the role of the grandparent, psychology theory of grandparenting is important too. Germanborn American psychologist, Erik Erikson developed the Generativity RETIREMENT

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2 Two Hands Are Better Than One versus Stagnation theory, which is typically associated with people who have reached midlife but who instinctively long to create a nurturing environment to support the development and growth of the next generation. For grandparents, they may view this time as a second chance to create a positive impact, a living legacy in the lives of their grandchildren through love and guidance with a hope that they can make a difference. Stagnation refers to those who find it difficult to contribute positively and who perhaps lack the ability to be involved and connect with others. There are different sorts of grandparenting personalities. Leading gerontologist Bernice Neugarten identified the core five patterns of grand-parenting as:1. Formal grandparent: follows what are believed to be the appropriate guidelines for the grand-parenting role including occasional services and maintaining an interest, but not being overly involved. 2. Fun seeker: primarily provides entertainment for the grandchild. 3. Surrogate parent: takes over the caretaking role for the child. 4. Reservoir of family wisdom:

Looking after a new baby is all consuming and needs round the clock care and attention. Make yourself useful by offering to cook, do some household chores or run some errands.Your contribution is guaranteed to bring much relief and will be appreciate.

3 Give Them Space

As exciting as it is that you want to be a hands-on grandparent, it’s really important to be led by the parents and not to assume that they are always going to want your help. More often than not, new parents like to work things out for themselves and will ask for help when needed.

4 Don’t Be Judgmental

It’s easy to voice your opinion especially when it’s something you disagree with such as an obscure name you dislike or sleeping arrangements with their baby. Whatever the circumstance may be, he or she is after all their child and not yours. Go with the flow and best to keep your feelings to yourself.

5 The Perfect Bond

We’ve all heard funny stories of babies crying uncontrollably when being held by certain people. If you’re a grandparent and this happens to you, do not fret! Persevere with it – it takes time for babies to get used to people other than mum and dad. www.drlyndashaw.com

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