Retirement today spring 2017 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

FINANCE•LIFESTYLE•TRAVEL•CULTURE•COMPETITIONS•HEALTH•RECIPES

Issue 90 Spring ‘17 2.90

Beautiful Memories, Wonderful Gifts Leaving a gift in your will to Bield means people can enjoy your legacy in so many ways. Some people have a specific purpose in mind. One generous family member wanted her legacy to help residents, like her mum, enjoy greater independence. Her gift now funds a vast array of additional activities such as day trips to the seaside, events and art classes in the centre allowing people to access services on their own doorstep. You too can help older people lead fulfilling lives and help us make sure they are free to be. Please consider leaving a legacy in your will - however big or small - it’s simple and inheritance tax free. To find out how your legacy could change lives visit www.bield.co.uk or call Kevin Rowe, Fundraiser on 0131 273 4000. To make an instant donation text FREE23 and your donation amount e.g. FREE23 £10 to 70070 BIELD HOUSING & CARE Registered Office: 79 Hopetoun Street, Edinburgh, EH7 4QF Tel: 0131 273 4000 • Fax: 0131 557 6327 • info@bield.co.uk • www.bield.co.uk • Scottish Charity SC006878

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CONTENTS

4 Age is just a number – Work for Life Read about what a 97-year-old record-breaker can teach us about getting older and how new challenges, and learning new things is not only fun but rewarding too.

WELCOME TO RETIREMENT TODAY MAGAZINE

6 Update Girlings Retirement Rentals – A different approach to retirement living; British holiday home buyers due £5.3 billion payout from Spanish banks; One in seven will retire with no pension this year – but women are closing the gap on men.

8 Turkish Home Cooking Recipes with the refined flavours and seductive aromas of the Turkish table.

11 Make Way for Retirement Tracy Gough, Life Coach, writes about how your retirement should be spent living life to the full and making every day count.

13 The New Steam Age

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16 Footloose in Italy IV Due to popular demand, Debra Rixon explores Italy, this time in the beautiful area of Rimini.

19 Out and About

Courtesy of Bucks Railway Centre

Middle right: Romantic English Homes by Robert O’Byrne, Photo Simon Brown (Cico Books) Bottom right: Image courtesy of Vegetarian Society www.britishasparagus.com

Mike Francis writes about how our romance with steam has been rekindled by the many privately run steam railway companies dotted round the country manned by enthusiastic volunteers helping to remind us of the smells and sounds of the steam age. oy Stocke & Angie

Fabulous excursions by steam; Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre; Painting the Theatre – Garrick in Action; Paul Nash; Maria Merian’s Butterflies.

20 Book Reviews Melanie Ward chooses a selection of books to review.

21 Men do embroidery too! Steeped in history with unrivalled expertise in the techniques of hand embroidery, read how the RSN has taken this captivating, traditional art and made it relevant today.

22 Protecting Animals Abroad Mike Francis takes a look at charities protecting animals abroad and how too often for many animals the charities are the last hope of a lifeline. Amra Media Solutions Ltd The Old Lavender Mill 46a Brook Street Aston Clinton Buckinghamshire HP22 5ES • Tel: 01296 632700 • Email: info@amramedia.co.uk • 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.

24 Romantic English Homes – Farmhouse Northumberland It is precisely the unspoilt character of the Northumberland countryside that led the owner of this farmhouse to acquire the property in 2004 – we take a look around the farmhouse.

27 Competitions A chance to win tickets to BBC Gardeners’ World Live and some exciting DVDs.

28 Food for Thought Celebrate Real Bread and National Vegetarian week with some delicious recipes.

24 WGIEN27 PA

week Week

30 Court decision highlights the importance of making a will With recent publicity regarding the three animal charities win case at the Supreme Court against woman cut out of her mother’s will, Stephenson’s take another look at why it is important to make a will.

32/34 Charity News Bransby Horses nurse five Arabs back to full health; Reflect and Remember; Help give families like Eileen’s a future free from hunger; New statistics reveal how the daily grind is driving us chocolate crazy; A ghostly visitor; Cat lovers urged to join demands to extend air gun laws to England and Wales

Photo: Simon Brown

• Published by:-

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 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 For more info visit www.thenbc.org.uk or telephone 01666 505500 Patron: HRH The Prince of Wales Registered Charity Number 212450

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The Psychiatry Research Trust

Age is just a number

Work

Mental illness and brain disease affects everyone – one in four of us directly.

Age is just a number Work for Life

The sole objective of The Psychiatry Research Trust is to raise funds for research into these devastating conditions at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (KCL) and its associated Maudsley and Bethlem Royal Hospitals.

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The research is aimed at prevention and informed detection as well as new and better treatments throughout the whole range of mental health topics, including Alzheimer’s and Motor Neurone Disease, Eating Disorders, Psychotic Illness, Addictions and Childhood Problems. We especially help young researchers with new ideas, to obtain their first support grants. For further information, or to make a donation, contact The Psychiatry Research Trust. All donations are of necessity subject to a small annual charge to cover the cost of administration, including fundraising.

The Psychiatry Research Trust

PO 87, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AF Tel: 0207 703 6217 www.psychiatryresearchtrust.co.uk Email: psychiatry_research_trust@kcl.ac.uk Donate on line at www.justgiving.com/psychiatryresearchtrust Registered Charity Number 284286

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am keenly aware that I face a challenge in promoting the virtues of working into later life. I am just one very old man who has demonstrated the virtues of successful ageing, and yet I am up against an entire industry that depends on selling you the concept of retirement as a thirty-year paid holiday. We have seen, from my experience and in statistics and research, that inactivity is closely associated with ill health, while our extended lifespans have rendered the pension model unfit for purpose. Quite simply, something has to be done, and yet I know full well that it appears as if I am advocating the removal of a carrot and its replacement with a stick. In practice, however, regular work in later life can come as a liberation. Often, throughout our careers, work can feel like a chore. We’re slaves to a mortgage, with growing families who depend on us to pay the bills and put food on the table. But as the years pass, and our

‘But as the years pass, and our children grow up, so I believe that work can take on a new purpose.’

children grow up, so I believe that work can take on a new purpose. It just happens to take shape at a time when we’re conditioned to expect a payoff for our hard labours in the form of a cosy retirement. It’s no wonder that people look forward to this moment, and even give up work early for an easy life of golf and long cruises. In reality, however, a holiday at sea won’t take up thirty years of your time, while trundling along the fairway in an electric buggy will do little for your fitness. Before you know it that dream has turned to tedium, while any plans you might have had are overshadowed by ill health.This might be an extreme scenario, but if you can register that a kernel of truth exists within it then all of a sudden the prospect of a return to work can feel rejuvenating. The question of what you can do in terms of employment is not easy to answer. So much depends on your personal situation in terms of health, fitness and finances. I believe all three are inextricably linked, in that work brings an income while keeping you occupied and in shape (if underpinned with a muscle- building programme). Often, it’s a question of taking small steps back into the workplace, or even setting up an enterprise that gives you complete control. Then there is the issue of the nature of the work you consider to be attractive. Again, everyone comes to this with a different outlook. You might once have been a CEO, with no intention of going back to the level of responsibility and pressure you once shouldered, and that’s fine.There’s nothing stopping you from picking up manual work, for example, which could prove to be a childhood dream come true. As we’ve seen, older generations are often the most enterprising. Even if you’ve passed your fifties, it’s not too late to apply your wealth of knowledge and experience to a startup. Nobody is saying it’ll be easy. Establishing a new business can be demanding. It can involve reaching out to forge new contacts and opportunities, and take up a great deal

An extract from Age is Just a Number: What a 97-Year-Old Record-Breaker Can Teach Us About Getting Older by Charles Eugster, out now from Sphere, RRP £13.99. Available online and in all good bookshops. At the age of 63, retired dental surgeon Charles Eugster took up competitive rowing. At 87, he took up bodybuilding and then at the age of 95 he started sprinting, winning multiple gold medals and is a world record-holding athelete. In Age is Just a Number, Charles Eugester shares his firmly held belief that the aging process should engender creative, profitable, productive geriatrics making a huge contribution to society, and enjoying themselves along the way. His wisdoms apply to us all, no matter the age. Charles is on a mission to change the way society thinks about growing old, one press-up at a time, and shares his own journey to youthful maturity showing his readers how they can do the same. Taking on new challenges, learning new things and improving your body as it ages is not only fun, but rewarding for the individual, and beneficial to an aging society. Charles knows so much about the aging process that when he speaks, professors or medicine pay to listen! Originally from the UK, Charles is now based in Switzerland n RETIREMENT

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Age is just a number Work for Life

for Life

of time and energy. At a stage of life when your high point has become an afternoon quiz show on television, what a wonderful opportunity this could be! It’s a question of embracing the fact that we might have numerous jobs throughout our lives. Not only does this allow us to extend the period in which we consider ourselves to be useful, by continuing to make a valuable contribution to society we can only feel better about ourselves.What’s more, with work come opportunities . . . From a personal standpoint, and quite without design, I now find my services are in demand as someone who embodies successful ageing. Since my mid-eighties, in fact, when I woke up to the perils of retirement and the possibilities in later life associated with building muscle, I have never been busier! Following the end of my post as ambassador for a chain of gyms, I have gone on to give lectures and speaking engagements around the world. I am often asked to provide media interviews, and always seize the opportunity to share and discuss my views on radio, television and the Internet. I was flown to the States to film an ‘infomercial’ about a juicer, and even presented a TEDx talk that has amassed well over half a million views. I find the work varied, enjoyable and stimulating. It’s a pleasure, never a chore, and brings benefits that go way beyond financial reward. So, what I’m encouraging you to do here is fundamentally change your attitude to working after the age of retirement. It doesn’t have to be a necessary evil, but can be an opportunity that brings benefits beyond a salary to supplement what might be a breadline income. Even if you’re comfortable on your pension, and thankful for the annuity that you purchased before living until a grand old age, just think of the pressure you’ll be taking away from the younger generation to pay for it. It might not seem like much, but if everyone shared the same approach it could benefit society as a whole. The possibilities are endless. In a nutshell, it’s a question of regarding retirement not as an end game but a new beginning. Where you take this aspect of successful ageing from here is entirely up to you n

UPDATE

Girlings Retirement Rentals A different approach to retirement living

In the past, renting a retirement property was not considered a viable option for many older people as the nature of assured shorthold tenancy agreements provided very little long-term security for tenants. At Girlings they are seeing an increase in the number of older people who are choosing to downsize from a property which is now too large for them and who are considering renting a retirement property more appropriate for their needs. Top of their agenda is security of tenure and the assurance they won’t have to move out of their home at a landlord’s request. They offer the majority of retirement properties for rent on assured (life-long) tenancies giving peace of mind and security to the tenant, which comes from the knowledge that they can live in the property for as long as they choose; plus the services of the development and property maintenance are included in the monthly rent, enabling effective budgeting. Many retirement developments have managers on site during week days to address any problems and a 24 hour emergency call line is fitted in every apartment. Communal facilities include a residents’ lounge, lifts, gardens, laundry facilities and a guest suite so that family and friends can visit. Girlings offer a wide range of accommodation to rent across the UK – predominantly one bedroom apartments within purpose built retirement developments, with some two bedroom apartments, studios and a small number of bungalows and cottages also available. So, wherever you are looking to live, they are sure to have a property to suit. Would you like to find out more? Then contact Girlings’ lettings team on 0800 525 184; email lettings@girlings.co.uk or visit their website www.girlings.co.uk

British holiday home buyers due £5.3 Billion payout from Spanish Banks One in seven will retire with no pension this year – but women are closing the gap on men Nearly one in seven people retiring this year (14 per cent) has made no provision for their retirement, including 11 per cent who will be either totally or somewhat reliant on the State Pension when they stop work, according to new research from Prudential. This leaves them embarking on their retirement with an income which is up to £1,400 a year below the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s (JRF) Minimum Income Standard for a single pensioner.

Update

For women planning to retire in 2017, there is some good news as they are closing the gap on men when it comes to retirement income expectations. Although this year will see more than double the proportion of women (19 per cent) retiring without a pension than men (nine per cent) – it is an improvement on 2016 when women (22 per cent) were more than three times as likely as men (7 per cent) to retire without a pension.

JRF’s Minimum Income Standard for a single pensioner of £186.77 a week is a benchmark of the income required to support an acceptable standard of living in retirement. A pensioner retiring after 6 April 2017 and relying solely on the new flat-rate State Pension, would have a weekly income of £159.553, or nearly £8,300 a year – falling short of the JRF minimum standard by £27.22 a week or over £1,400 a year. RETIREMENT

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Thousands of Brits left high and dry by bankrupt developers in Spain have been given fresh hope as new figures suggest a £5.3 billion pot of cash is up for grabs. The findings, released by specialist legal service Spanish Legal Reclaims in conjunction with CEBR (The Centre for Economics & Business Research), suggest Spanish banks owe money to approximately 130,000 British buyers who suffered loses with expected pay-outs ranging from £10,000 - £500,000 per buyer. While earlier estimates put the bill facing Spanish banks at around £2 billion, this has over doubled as more buyers emerge and cases are won. Buyers can get their money back plus interest, thanks to a landmark ruling by the Spanish Supreme Court that declared the banks, who were meant to safeguard buyers’ money, are now obliged to repay deposits if the developer went bankrupt. Luis Cuervo, CEO, Spanish Legal Reclaims, said: “Thousands of British buyers who had big dreams of owning a place in the sun were left high and dry when builders and developers went bust. For years, buyers fought to get their money back unsuccessfully, but changes in the law mean they will finally get what they are owed. The bill facing Spanish banks is expected to be around £5.3 billion, but only if buyers take action. “Brits have to fight in order to claim their money back and that’s where we come in. We’ve had huge success helping people secure the funds that are rightfully theirs and urge the thousands of people who haven’t yet made a claim to start the process. Our team of specialists across Spain understand how to win, and importantly, how to make the process easy and transparent for clients trying to recoup their money.” If you think you may be eligible to claim,Tel. 0845 680 3849 or visit http://www.spanishlegalreclaims.com

SHOW E HOUSN OPE

www.residencesladifference.com contact@residencesladifference.com www.retireineurope.property Visit by appointment: 0845 303 7385 --- +33 (0)5 46 26 80 65

Saint Jean d’Angély Hotel service from the comfort of your home …. Le Clos des Granges Charente-Maritime, France Is a concept developed for over 60s in an environment ideal for a serene retirement Services

Cycling Pool Bar Mini-bus Car Hire

Home help Caterer Gardening Sports ground

Secure grounds

An extremely well presented McCarthy & Stone ground floor retirement apartment located in a quiet residential area, having fabulous views across open countryside to the rear of the development. • No Onward Chain • Beautiful grounds • Car park space • Communal sitting/games room with kitchen • Guest suite for visitors

• House manager and 24 hour emergency call system • Situated in Wellesbourne a popular village in Warwick. • Flat is in good decorative order • Long lease

Discover the freedom renting in retirement can bring...

For further information telephone 01273 251800 or email sarah@star-property.co.uk

Celebrant Training Ltd

www.celebranttraining.org

55+? Did you know you can rent private retirement property on a Life Long Tenancy which gives you the right to remain living in the property for as long as you wish, with service charges and maintenance included in the rent?

0800 525 184 www.girlings.co.uk

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Civil Celebrant

conducting Funeral, Wedding, Civil Partnership, Renewal of Vows and Baby Naming ceremonies. Affordable training courses are now available and led by a very experienced Civil Celebrant. Contact Peter Headington m) 079 509 55111 o) 01992 627669 email: celebtraining@aol.com

Without doubt, the best property decision you may ever make...

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Turkish Home Cooking Recipes with the refined flavours and seductive aromas of the Turkish table. Recipes from Tree of Life by Joy E. Stocke and Angie Brenner, Copyright© 2017 by Joy E. Stocke and Angie Brenner. Used by permission from the publisher, Burgess Lea Press, an imprint of Quarto Publishing Group, www.quartoknows.com

Tomato and Walnut Salad with Pomegranate Molasses

Marinated Shrimp with Orange Zest and Nigella Seeds SERVES 6 ¾ cup (177 ml) olive oil 1 medium clove garlic, finely chopped 2 teaspoons grated orange zest 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh oregano, or 1 scant teaspoon dried oregano 1½ teaspoons nigella seeds 1½ teaspoons Aleppo pepper

SERVES 4

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ cup (60 g) coarsely chopped walnuts

1½ pounds (781 g) medium shrimp, deveined with shells and tails on

3 medium red tomatoes, coarsely chopped

¼ cup (60 ml) orange juice

1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses

¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt

¼ cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon chopped parsley

1 teaspoon kosher salt

Orange wedges, for serving

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Pour the olive oil into a shallow nonreactive dish large enough to hold the shrimp in a single layer. Add the garlic, orange zest, oregano, nigella seeds, Aleppo pepper, and salt, and whisk to blend.

½ cup (25 g) coarsely chopped flatleaf Parsley Put the walnuts in a single layer in a medium skillet over moderate heat. Stir the nuts continuously for 2 to 3 minutes until they become fragrant and turn a rich golden-brown. Set aside to cool. Cut the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and put them in a nonreactive serving bowl. If there is any tomato juice left on the cutting board, add it to the bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the pomegranate molasses, olive oil, salt and pepper. Add the walnuts and parsley to the tomatoes and gently fold to combine. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss again to mix. Finish with a few more grinds of black pepper, if desired.

Add the shrimp to the marinade, turning to coat each piece. Cover and marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes or in the refrigerator for up to 6 hours. Bring the shrimp to room temperature before cooking. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the shrimp to a plate. Pour the marinade into a large skillet. Heat over medium heat until the marinade starts to bubble. To cook the shrimp on the stovetop, add the shrimp to the hot marinade and sauté 3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and their flesh becomes opaque. To cook the shrimp on the grill, prepare the marinade in the skillet and set aside. Place the shrimp in a grill basket. Cook over a medium-hot grill until the shrimp turn opaque, about 3 minutes per side. Add them to the hot marinade in the skillet.

Turkish Home Cooking

Pour the orange juice over the shrimp. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and garnish with the chopped parsley and orange wedges. Serve straight from the pan.

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Lamb Kleftico (Cypriot-Style Lamb Shanks) SERVES 6 6 lamb shanks (about 3 pounds /1,400 g) 2 tablespoons fresh thyme 6 medium russet potatoes 6 medium carrots 6 cipollini onions, or 3 medium yellow onions 6 long, sweet-spicy peppers such as Anaheim or banana (optional) 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 cloves garlic, crushed 3 tablespoons tomato paste ¾ cup (177 ml) beef or chicken stock, or water 6 bay leaves 1 tablespoon kosher salt 2 cups (473 ml) dry red wine 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt 1/4 cup (9 g) roughly chopped parsley Lemon wedges, for serving Heat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Put the lamb shanks in a bowl large enough to hold them (the shanks do not need to be in a single layer). If the lamb shanks have been in the refrigerator, let them come to room temperature. Add the thyme and oregano and toss to combine. Cover the bowl and set aside. Peel the potatoes and cut in half, or in quarters if large. Peel and trim the carrots and cut in half lengthwise, then into quarters. Peel the cipollini onions and leave them whole (if using yellow onions, cut into halves, or quarters if large). If using peppers, leave them whole. Put the olive oil in a medium pan over moderate heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just long enough for the garlic to sizzle slightly and exude its aroma. Add the tomato paste and stir to blend well. Add the stock and bring to a simmer, then remove from the heat. Put the lamb shanks in a roasting pan large enough to hold them in a single layer. Tuck the potatoes, onions, carrots and bay leaves between the shanks. Pour the tomato sauce over the meat and vegetables. Top with the peppers, if using. Season with salt and pour the red wine over all. Cover the roasting pan with foil and place in the oven. Roast the shanks for 2 to 2½ hours, checking once or twice and basting with the sauce. Remove from the oven when the meat is tender and falling off the bone. To serve, arrange on a large platter and top with some of the sauce. Season with flaky sea salt and pepper and garnish with the chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges.

Citrus Pudding with Almonds SERVES 4 TO 6 ¼ cup (60 ml) cold water ¼ cup (30 g) cornstarch 1 grapefruit 1 Valencia or navel orange 1 cup (236 ml) orange juice, strained of pulp 1 cup (236 ml) grapefruit juice, strained of pulp ¾ cup plus 1 tablespoon (166 g) sugar ¾ cup (85 g) slivered almonds, 2 tablespoons reserved for garnish 1 cup (240 ml) whipped cream, for serving ½ cup (75 g) pomegranate seeds, for serving In a small bowl, whisk together the water and cornstarch until smooth. Cut the grapefruit and the orange into supremes (see Note). Cut the supremes into bite-sized pieces and measure out a generous ½ cup each of the orange (85 g) and grapefruit (115 g). Set the fruit aside. Pour the grapefruit and orange juices into a saucepan. Set over medium heat and add the sugar and the cornstarch mixture. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to turn clear and bubbles and thickens. Add the grapefruit and orange supremes. Cook, stirring gently, for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat. Stir in the almonds and pour into individual serving dishes. Cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. Top with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream before serving. Garnish with the remaining almonds and pomegranate seeds. Note: To supreme citrus, use a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of the fruit. Remove the peel and the pith following the curve of the peel down to the cutting board. To release the segments from their membranes, slide the knife between the segments and their membranes and cut the flesh away. Gently release each segment onto the cutting board. When finished, squeeze any remaining juice from the membranes and discard.

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Turkish Home Cooking

2 tablespoons fresh oregano

ADVERTISING FEATURE

“Having hearing aids has totally changed my life” “I could hear properly for the first time since I was a teenager. It was overwhelming.”

ike Davies will never forget the first time he used his hearing aids. Mike has struggled with his hearing for most of his life but all that changed when he got in touch with Amplifon. Believing he would have to continue to live with deafness in one ear, he was amazed by what happened when he was fitted for his hearing aids. “It was incredible,” says Mike. “Everything was there and crystal clear: voices, birdsong, traffic noise – sounds I hadn’t been able to hear since I was in my teens. The memory of it still overwhelms me. “The first words I spoke after I’d had the hearing aids fitted were ‘you’re not having these back, I’m keeping them’, because it was lifechanging. Going to Amplifon was probably the best thing I’ve ever done.” After several operations in his younger years, he was told the hearing had completely gone from his right ear, a situation he had lived with for 25 years before seeking Amplifon’s help. “I’d struggle when I went to the pub with friends, and always felt like I wasn’t part of the conversation because I kept missing out on jokes,” says Mike. “My wife, Lin, had to be my ears, even when we were talking she’d have to do two lots of listening to make sure I heard it all correctly. “My young granddaughter was brilliant. She knew I couldn’t hear well and she’d grab my face and turn my left ear to her mouth when she wanted to tell me something. “My right ear was completely dead and I had an aid in the

Mike Davies other, and that does affect everybody because they all have to make allowances for you. “It got more frustrating and I didn’t want to accept that I might spend the rest of my life in a world that was becoming increasingly silent. That’s when I decided to go to Amplifon.”

“ For the first time in decades I can hear the birds sing and the wind blow through the trees.” When testing confirmed what he knew about his right ear, Mike’s Audiologist recommended the BiCROS system, where a hearing aid in the left ear relays the sound to a transmitter in the right ear. “It was the only real chance I had of hearing from my right ear again, so I said let’s go for it.” Since then, the difference has been lifechanging for Mike and his family. “I was looking at an old wedding video and I could see that I kept touching my hearing aid and trying to adjust it, and I don’t do that anymore,” he says. For Mike, hearing well again has quickly become second

nature: “The day after I had the hearing aids fitted we went out for dinner. The hotel manager came over to talk to us and the couple at the table behind. When he walked away Lin looked at me in shock. ‘You’ve just had a three way conversation’, she said. The effect of the hearing aids was staggering: a couple of days earlier the conversation just wouldn’t have been possible.” Mike says he can’t believe how long he’d struggled with his hearing, and has found new enjoyment in sitting and relaxing in his garden. “I’ve always liked sitting out in the garden, but now I can appreciate it more than ever because for the first time in decades I can hear the birds sing and the wind blow through the trees. “Our water feature was silent, but now it’s just the most beautiful musical accompaniment to my day. “Seeking help with my hearing really has helped me regain my quality of life, and I’m so grateful. It’s never too late and I’d encourage anyone to go and see Amplifon if they’re concerned about hearing loss. “If just one person reads this, books an appointment with Amplifon and regains their quality of life, it will all have been worthwhile. Go and see them. It’s never too late.”

Book a FREE hearing test and trial today Hearing. FREEPHONE 0800 912 7845 It’s all we do. quoting RT030417 10

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LOVE YOUR RETIREMENT

‘Ensure retirement is one of your best chapters. Life is for living regardless of age’ Tracy Gough of ‘purpose’ back, you need to discover what this means to you. An action may involve working on a project which gives you an end achievement, like making an item of furniture, jewellery or doing some voluntary work in a school, care home or charity shop to give something back to your community. • ‘My health is holding me back.’ Ask yourself how your health is affecting your retirement. It could be that you have gained weight since retiring. If so your action plan could be to schedule into your diary a form of regular exercise that you enjoy like walking or swimming. Plan your meals in advance and only shop for these items, to avoid buying unnecessary fatty or sugary foods. • ‘I miss the social life that work offered me.’ Having an active social life is an important part of feeling fulfilled, especially when retired. Action how you are going to achieve this now, it could involve making time to meet up with ex-work friends or re-kindle lost friendships. Improve your social life even further by joining clubs and organisations that interest you. An even bigger goal could involve advertising and setting up your own retirement group, with other likeminded people. • ‘My finances are under strain since being retired.’ Changes in your financial life can be very challenging. Perhaps your pension has not provided you with the income you were expecting. There may

be conflict with what you would love to do if you had the finances available compared with what you can afford to do. An action plan for this could be ways where you could save money on such items as food, household bills and insurances. As an alternative, look at ways where you could make money, for example by selling unused items, holding car boot sales or making items to sell. Your retirement should be spent living life to the full and making every day count. There are many stories about those retired who successfully make these years some of their best yet, whilst still having their fair share of challenges and limitations like most people. Wisely spend time reflecting on your own retirement as you currently see it and strive to make changes in those areas where you feel most unfulfilled. To avoid feeling initially overwhelmed, break down any ‘challenges’ into small easy to do steps in your action plan and try each day to make one positive difference in your life. Using a notebook or journal will help you to stay on track and enable you to reflect on your progress. There is only one person who can make positive changes in your life and that is you. Your retirement years are precious so strive to live life to the full and get the most out of them n Tracy Gough is a Life Coach, Therapist and a Registered Nurse with over 25 years of experience in improving the lives of older people. For more information on retirement and products available visit www.makewayforretirement.co.uk. If you would like one to one coaching sessions to move your life in a more positive direction, contact Tracy by e-mail at tracy@makewayforretirement.co.uk RETIREMENT

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Love your retirement

eing retired is something we often dream about during our working life. Now this time has finally arrived, are you getting the best out of your retirement or are you finding it a challenge and different to what you originally expected? If you don’t wake up most morning’s looking forward to starting a new day, look at the areas of your life that are not working well. Have you fallen into a ‘rut’? Perhaps spending time repeating the same dull daily routine, when really you want so much more from your retirement years. So, how can you move in a more positive direction? Firstly, reflect on what makes you feel happy, fulfilled and excited in life. Write your thoughts down in a notebook or journal. Now create an action plan based on what you have written down to help you incorporate these things back into your life. As a guide, you could use the following headings • the action to be achieved • resources needed • who will it involve • obstacles to overcome • when will it be achieved by Initially try out your action plan by doing small things first, with a view to building up to bigger goals and aspirations. The key to success is to commit to your actions so if it helps, write anything ‘to do’ in your diary or calendar. Here are some examples of areas that maybe challenging in retirement and some of the actions you can work towards. • ‘I feel my life has no purpose’. Being employed probably gave you more of a ‘purpose’ than you realised. To get a sense

RE-OPEN THE WAVERLEY ROUTE

Steam Gala & Model Railway Exhibition 2017

FROM CARLISLE TO EDINBURGH

£5

Grade B-listed Shankend Viaduct, nr. Hawick HAWICK

Opening day service at Stow Station 2015

Featuring visiting tender loco: T9 30120 'Greyhound'

Sunday 30th April & Bank Holiday Monday 1st May Our annual feast of railways of all sizes Up to 7 locos in steam - including special guest T9 30120 Model railway layouts 1km of ride-on miniature railway Vintage carriages and Brake van rides Freight trains

PHASE 1 NOW OPEN! EDINBURGH-TWEEDBANK

CARLISLE

Sunday Special: Heritage Bus Link from Aylesbury Vale Parkway Railway Station Bank Holiday Monday Special: Diesel Shuttle to Aylesbury Town Railway Station Admire our newly loaned engine, LNWR tender loco 'Cornwall', built in 1847

Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Aylesbury, HP22 4BY

Tel: 01296 655720 www.bucksrailcentre.org

Founded in 1999, the Campaign for Borders Rail (CBR) has been one of the most successful grassroots rail campaigns in Great Britain, a story of concerned citizens from all walks of life getting together to right the 1969 injustice of complete closure of the 98-mile Waverley Route through the Borders. With our initial goal secured - services on the rebuilt 35-mile ‘Borders Railway’ from Edinburgh to Galashiels and Tweedbank began on 6th September 2015 CBR is now focussed on onwards extension to Hawick and Carlisle, lobbying hard for a full and fit-for-purpose feasibility study as soon as possible.

With YOUR support we can achieve our aim!

Membership is from only £5 a year to £50 for life; just ring our secretary on 017683 62022 or email dgma@talktalk.net for details of how to join online, or send a cheque to ‘CBR’ at The Station, Long Marton, APPLEBY, Cumbria CA16 6BJ. www.campaignforbordersrail.org Facebook campaignforbordersrail Twitter @BordersRail

FLIGHTS OF NOSTALGIA From March to October our fleet of Vintage Aircraft take off from IWM Duxford offering a truly memorable experience to all who fly with us at Classic Wings. Choose from our range of nostalgic flights: Sightseeing in our 1930s de Havilland Dragon Rapide over London or Cambridge

An exciting Trial Flying Lesson in a genuine Tiger Moth or Cessna

Experience the thrill of high speed flight in the T-6 Harvard

Fly Wing to Wing with a genuine Second World War Spitfire

Flights available from £99 Fly in a Spitfire – for the ultimate experience

For more details of these flights, to book a flight or buy gift vouchers, contact us on 01223 837453. Book online at www.classic-wings.co.uk

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STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway

A First Class Day Out STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon SN2 2EY Tel: 01793 466646 www.steam-museum.org.uk www.facebook.com/steammuseum @steam_museum

Source: http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/511565. Reproduced under licence.

GALASHIELS

or nf joi nly o

Upper: Copyright Walter Baxter, geograph.org.uk Lower: Copyright Robert Drysdale, CBR.

EDINBURGH

1847 ‘Cornwall’ Locomotive courtesy of Buckinghamshire Railway Centre

This is a classic example of a working heritage railway museum with interest, education and fun the prime ingredients of a day out on the tracks. Regular steam rides and a well stocked museum help visitors peep into the past of the ‘ golden age of steam.’ The Centre occupies an extensive site in rolling Bucks countryside and an old 1847 LNWR locomotive called ‘ Cornwall’ and two liveried carriages is on display here. ‘Steaming days’

genius of Isambard Kingdom Brunel who created virtually every aspect of this railway from London Paddington to Bristol and made this network the most advanced in the world. When it opened in 1843 Swindon was one of the largest railway engineering complexes anywhere. The museum, open every day of the year apart from Christmas and New Year, has a mixture of long standing exhibitions lasting several months to exhibits just

THE NEW STEAM AGE

he sight of the £4.5 million newly refurbished Flying Scotsman back on the rails once more gently puffing out white plumes of smoke and streaking through the countryside on the inaugural run in original green livery shows that steam railways are back in business. Tours are planned around the country for this gentle giant of steam. In May the itinerary will take in Edinburgh and the West of England , in June the hills of Hampshire,Surrey and the Chilterns, and in July northern journeys to York and Carlisle. The locomotive was originally built in 1923 and eleven years later touched 100mph, the first UK loco to do so. Now The Flying Scotsman is the oldest mainline locomotive at work in Britain. Our romance with steam has been rekindled by the many privately run steam railway companies dotted round the country manned by enthusiastic volunteers helping to remind us of the smells and sounds of the steam age. The hiss of the engine as it slowly approaches the station and the build up of steam as it gradually shunts out of the platform are vivid experiences that can now be revisited on private railway tracks in many parts of the country.The uniforms, the bonhomie, the light-hooded dining carriages too can recreate scenes that could be straight out of a Brief Encounter film.

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE RAILWAY CENTRE

where you can ride on a full size steam train take place here every Sunday through to October as well as other days when special events such as steam galas and classic car rallies take place. The next Steam Gala is on bank holiday weekend at the end of April when 7 locomotives will be building up a head of steam. A bus rally at the end of May and a miniature traction engine and historic commercial vehicle events are earmarked for June. The lifeblood of a private railway is the volunteers who keep the whole enterprise on track with their abundant enthusiasm. So if you are enthused by the prospect of helping out with everything electrical, are good with wood, or handy with a paintbrush pick up the phone and dial 01296 655720 to see what jobs are going. The same goes for running the shop, cafe or manning the gate. If you are recently retired this could be a good way of filling some of those extra hours.

GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY MUSEUM

Railway fans the world over nicknamed the GWR ‘God’s Wonderful Railway’ and the museum is housed in a sensitively restored Grade 11 railway building in Swindon railway works. It tells the story of the men and women who built,operated and travelled on the GWR and of the pioneering STEAM building courtesy of Swindon Borough Council

King George V is displayed at STEAM courtesy of the National Railway Museum

there for a day. Towering above them all is the much loved King George V locomotive,90 years old this year and built in Swindon which is on display until the end of December together with a quirky look at the GWR and the social scene the year the train was built. From July this will be supplemented by a ‘Going to America’ exhibition recalling a journey the train made to the USA. In between there are a pot-pourri of different themes ranging from vintage tinplate model railways and old inventions,to a brick show and railway festivals.

CLEAN MACHINE

Apart from the excitement of turning back the clock and seeing history relived in front of you you have the knowledge that this steam based entertainment is water based as well and therefore pollution-free. Something our current forms of transport could take a lesson from n

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Bucks Railway Centre: www.bucksrailcentre.org Tel 01296 655720 GWR Museum: www.steam-museum.org.uk Tel 01793 466646 RETIREMENT

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The new steam age

By Mike Francis

Fabulous excursions by steam

David Chandler

he A1 Steam Locomotive Trust have a number of fabulous excursions planned for this year, all hauled by Tornado, the first new main line steam locomotive built in Britain for almost 50 years. Steam trains remind us of a time when the journey was as important as the destination, where passengers can enjoy the beautiful scenery with plumes of steam drifting past the windows, as the whistle chimes in the distance. Whether you prefer a run along the East Coast to the Scottish Capital,

a day at the seaside, or the chance to travel across the world famous Settle and Carlisle Railway, there is something for everyone. Their tours offer the opportunity to relive a bygone age of travel, evoking the glamour of the 1930s. Standard Class is ideal for those wishing to simply take in the scenery en route to one of the wonderful destinations. Passengers booking First Class seating can look forward to luxurious surroundings, with those taking the dining option enjoying the full silver service experience. Freshly prepared

by the on-board team of elite chefs, First Class Dining passengers receive a full English breakfast on the outward journey and a relaxed four course dinner on the return as the sun sets, the station lights twinkle and Tornado’s reassuring rhythmical exhaust sets the seal on a memorable outing. The steam hauled railtours are a wonderful day out for all, and offer the ideal way to celebrate a birthday or anniversary n To book call 01438 715050 or visit www.a1steam.com

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Have Retirement Today posted direct to your door so you never miss an issue Send you name and address together with a cheque for £19.99 to: Subscriptions Department, AMRA MEDIA SOLUTIONS, The Old Lavender Mill, 46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, Buckinghamshire, HP22 5ES

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VOLUNTEERING CHANGES LIVES Volunteering with the British Heart Foundation can change more lives than you think. You will help raise the money that drives our life saving research whilst meeting great people and being part of a friendly team. Whether you can give just a few hours or a few days, every minute of your time is valuable to us. Find out more at bhf.org.uk/volunteer or call 0300 330 3322

Registered charity numbers 225971 & SC039426

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EXPERIENCE THE GOLDEN AGE OF STEAM Our trains offer the opportunity to relive a bygone age of steam travel, evoking the glamour of the 1930s. The heritage carriages provide a nostalgic journey back in time, where passengers can enjoy the beautiful scenery as plumes of steam drift past the windows, and the locomotive’s whistle can be heard.

Monday 28th August - ‘The Easterling’ - For a day out at the seaside. London King’s Cross to Great Yarmouth, picking up at Potters Bar and Stevenage. Saturday 16th September - ‘The Border Raider’ - Steam over the Settle & Carlisle railway. Birmingham to Carlisle, picking up at Tame Bridge Parkway, Birmingham New Street, Wolverhampton, Stafford & Crewe. Saturday 7 October - ‘The Tees-Tyne Express’- Visit the North East of England. Dorridge to York, Durham and Newcastle, picking up at Solihull, Tamworth, Derby, Chesterfield and Sheffield. th

Liam Barnes

First Class Dining passengers travel in luxury, receiving silver service for both their full breakfast and four course evening meals, all cooked on the train by the elite team of chefs. First Class Non-Dining passengers and those in Standard Class have access to the licenced buffet car for light refreshment. TICKET

PRICES (starting from)

First Class Dining First Class Non-Dining Standard Class

£235.00 £149.00 £99.00

Guaranteed ‘tables for two’ in First Class Non-Dining and First Class Dining are available for a supplement of £25.00 per person. All profits from this tour go towards maintaining Tornado in future years. In the event of cancellation or haulage problems please see our full terms and conditions of carriage.

6 0163 TORN ADO New Steam for the Main Line

To make a booking visit www.ukrailtours.com or call 01438 715050

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Footloose in Italy IV By Debra Rixon

Footloose in Italy IV

t wasn’t difficult to make a decision where to go for our 26th travel film – so many people wrote to us to request Italy – again – that the choice was made for us! We hadn’t to the seaside in a We started our tour of gone long time, so we chose Tuscany in Florence, and Rimini on the Adriatic met up with the Director – a well known resort of Tourism for some that has been popular advice as usual and set for decades. The 12kms off exploring. of sandy beach are well established with numbered plots anchored to the numerous hotels along the stretch, and we cycled the whole length of the promenade, carefully keeping to the right lane for the direction we were going in. I don’t know why we bothered; no-one else did and so the pleasant ride was a bit fraught from endless people standing, stepping and cycling into our path! At the ‘town’ end, we walked into the centre to explore Roman ‘Ariminum’s past. There is more than you think, and with some judicious research, you can make a walking tour to take in most of the important sites, including the 2,000 year old Tiberius 16

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St Peters Rome

Bridge that still carries traffic over it today. We indulged in a bit of ‘Mod’ nostalgia, and visited the Rimini Lambretta Centre, where I managed to ingratiate myself enough to get a ride on a fabulous restored showpiece Speedball! From Rimini centre we took a bus to the tiny Republic of San Marino, which was an enjoyable day out. The old town sits high on the ridge, and flat shoes are best as some of the streets are steep. There are 3 historic towers to walk between on an easy path to get a perspective of the rest of the Republic. lambretta

We drove through the mountains in a hire car that Dave complained about the entire time, stopping in one mountain pass to take a break and admire the view. We started our tour of Tuscany in Florence, and met up with the Director of Tourism for some advice as usual and set off exploring. It’s all relatively flat underfoot to most of the main attractions, although the Boboli Gardens stretch up the hill behind the Pitti Palace to a high terrace and rose garden with great views. The Ponte Vecchio is a scrum of course, and brings to mind how London Bridge must once have been with its shops on either side – exclusive shops, I should add. There is a lot of art on display outside the galleries and musea, and in Piazza Signoria there is a raised Loggia with notable statues for everyone to study and enjoy. Having had our fill of marble bottoms, we drove on to Pisa, in the rain. On the Field of Miracles we got one – the sun came out and Dave was able to ascend the famous Tower on his pre-bought ticket. All the structures here are worth entering

Pienza Val d’Orcia

Sanmarino

up with the Villa, so apart from having a late lunch in a charming backstreet cafe, we didn’t see the modern town – I don’t think many people do! We ditched the unpopular hire car and took public transport into the city. Rome – what can you say? It’s a fabulous, open-air museum that delivers on every front. We divided the attractions into two walking trails – one Ancient Rome, and one Baroque Rome – in the hope that we would get round most of it. We used the metro, which although restricted, was useful. We also pre-booked tickets to avoid the queues for the main attractions. I loved the Pantheon, and lingered longer than Dave wanted, admiring its interior. The Palatine and the Colosseum were my favourite haunts. I also liked the Circus Maximus very much – I could picture Ben Hur perfectly. The Villa Borghese gardens are a welcome green space in the heat; and Piazza Navona a good place to eat. Obviously, you have to throw your coins into the Trevi, if you can fight your way to the fountain’s edge! We spent half a day on a food tasting tour in Campo De’Fiori that was not only fun, tasty but very informative! The Vatican was our finishing point and Dave went up into the dome of St Peter’s to get the iconic picture he’d always wanted. It was busy of course, but not so many people pay to go up to the dome, so it’s less crowded n Debra and David flew to Rome and drove to Rimini. Leaning Tower of Pisa tickets were pre-booked online only, 20 days before visiting and are timed. Walks of Italy hosted our food tasting tour, and My Tours organised the vintage Fiat 500 tour and wine tasting. For information on all the Footloose films, take a look at www. footloose.tv a great source of holiday ideas, and watch previews of the films on Youtube. Got a smart TV? Watch in HD on Amazon Prime Instant Video! Debra in Rome

WIN!

We have 5 copies of Footloose in Italy IV on DVD to giveaway. For a chance to win a copy, send in your details quoting ref. FITIV to Amra Media Solutions, 46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, Bucks, HP22 5ES Closing date 31 May 2017

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Footloose in Italy IV

and wandering through, but if Pisa Our next stop was Siena, and we has anything else to offer, we didn’t had to park outside the city walls.Yes, find it. another walled town with narrow busy We took a vintage Fiat 500 tour streets, but what a reward at the very through the fabulous Val D’Orcia heart of it – the Piazza del Campo, region, and had a superb picnic site of the famous horse race the Palio. lunch, sampling the local pecorino I loved the square; the atmosphere cheese, topped off with wine tasting. was quite different to what you might It was time to put our walking expect in the middle of a town – boots on about now in the film, and the cobbled segments of the space we decided to walk to the medieval felt almost like a beach. People were walled town of San Gimignano on sitting, stretched out or picnicking as the Pilgrim route the Via Francigena. you would if it were sand. There is a It begins in Canterbury and crosses lot to see in Siena, and following paths the whole of France and then Italy away from the crowds means you get to end at the Eternal City, and we to enjoy the numerous antiquities decided to walk about 8kms of it. without the clamour. Way-marking was a bit sporadic, but On our way to Rome, our final we did finally see our destination destination, we paused at two San Gimignano stops, the Rome – what can you ‘request’ in the distance, its first being the spa say? It’s a fabulous, famous ‘skyscraper waters of Bagno towers’ spiking open-air museum that Vignoni. There the skyline. It was delivers on every front isn’t a great deal to see in this little town, but it is a pleasant place to stop for refreshment. We scrambled down the hillside on rough paths to sit beside a thermal pool and in my case, bathe legs that were covered in insect bites courtesy of the Pantheon Rome Via Francigena. busy, as you might expect, and The second stop was the Villa its history is quite remarkable. D’Este at the hilltop town of Tivoli. Parsimonious attitude on the part of This was a real highlight for me; the ruling Medici family meant no the house is exquisite in its painted investment in the city, and therefore, interiors, and the gardens with all mercifully, no improvement, so the the fountains are really spectacular. town remains almost exactly as it As a day trip out of Rome, it really is was in the Middle Ages. worth doing. All our time was taken

WELSH

3 PEAKS CHALLEngE 13TH-14TH MAY 2017

Take on 3 of wales most iconic mountains in one weekend! Climb Pen y Fan, Cadair Idris & Snowdon in aid of PCRC! Every year 40,000 men are diagnosed with Prostate Cancer in the UK alone. The Prostate Cancer Research Centre is the only charity funding research solely focused on the fatal spread of Prostate Cancer. By funding this world class research, we are working towards increasing the survival and quality of life of men with Prostate Cancer.

@ThePCRC #snowdon500

www.prostate-cancer-research.org.uk Registration: ÂŁ35

Charity reg. 1156027

www.snowdon500.co.uk OR CALL 0207 848 7546

London Waterbus Trips

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] 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

Study the

Certificate & Diploma in Technical Hand Embroidery Learn the core techniques in the art of hand embroidery Develop your skills to achieve the highest standard Jacobean Crewelwork, Silk Shading, Goldwork, Blackwork, AppliquĂŠ & many more A flexible course you can start throughout the year & choose days that suit you Taught at Hampton Court Palace, Bristol, Rugby, Durham & Glasgow w: royal-needlework.org.uk

e: claire.harrington@royal-needlework.org.uk t: 020

3166 6928

RSN is a registered charity no: 312774

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Out&About...

Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre

Monkey World, the internationally-acclaimed rescue centre, is turning 30 this year! Opened in 1987 to provide a home for nine abused Spanish beach chimpanzees, it is now home to over 250 primates. Many have been neglected, kept in unnatural conditions, or experienced unbelievable cruelty. At Monkey World, they can all enjoy the company of their own kind in a safe and natural environment, and some are now part of international breeding programmes for endangered species. Combining fun with conservation and animal education, half-hourly talks at the park explain all about man’s closest living relative. Visitors can see the stars of TV’s ‘Monkey Business’ and ‘Monkey Life’, then ‘monkey around’ in the south’s largest Great Ape play area for children with its huge variety of swings, slides, and climbing frames. There are several food outlets available at the park, or visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy lunch in the beautiful surroundings. Keep an eye on the website, or there social media pages, to keep up with all the special 30th anniversary events. For more details, please go to: www.monkeyworld.org, email apes@monkeyworld.org or call 01929 462537

Painting The Theatre: Garrick In Action

Hsiao-Quai & Awan Monkey Word 2016

Howard Hodgkin: Absent Friends National Portrait Gallery, London Until 18 June 2017

Bowes Museum, County Durham 8 April – 9 July

An exhibition celebrating England’s best-known The Farmer’s Return 18th century actor, David Garrick (1717-1779), commemorating the 300th anniversary of his birth. The Museum recently acquired two outstanding paintings by Johann Zoffany (1733-1810), commissioned by Garrick. The Farmer’s Return and Venice Preserv’d were each painted in 1762 for Garrick’s house at The Adelphi, at that time one of London’s most fashionable developments. They portray the actor, who symbolises the high success of 18th-century theatre, acting in both tragedy and comedy, in two successful plays of the time. Through paintings, engravings, contemporary mezzotints and theatrical paraphernalia, the display shows how artists depicted the ‘theatrical action’, and how these representations encouraged the emerging phenomenon of ‘celebrity’. www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

The first ever exhibition devoted to the portraits of the great British painter Howard Hodgkin, who died earlier this month at the age of Portrait of the Artist by Howard Hodgkin, 1995-87, Private Collection 84. The exhibition © Howard Hodgkin shows the breadth and nature of Hodgkin’s long-standing engagement with portraiture, an important aspect of his work that has been largely overlooked because his work appears abstract. With over 50 works from collections around the world and dated from 1949 to the present, the exhibition traces the development of Hodgkin’s portraits, exploring his important contribution to our understanding of what constitutes a portrait and examining key themes with the artist’s work: colour, memory, emotion and imagination.

PAUL NASH

Sainsbury Centre, Norwich 8 April – 20 August

See some remarkable paintings by Paul Nash, one of the most important British artists of the first half of the 20th century . Renowned as an official war artist in both the First and Second World Wars, Nash was fascinated with Britain’s landscapes and ancient history. Inspired by these influences, he interpreted his environment in a very unique and personal way that evolved throughout his career. Spanning a lifetime’s work from his earliest drawings to his iconic war time paintings, the exhibition will explore Nash’s central role in the development of modern British art. www.scva.ac.uk

The Rye Marshes - 1932, oil on canvas - Ferens Art Gallery: Hull Museums

MARIA MERIAN’S BUTTERFLIES Until 23 July

Some of the finest images of the natural world are on display in this fascinating exhibition, opening in the 300th anniversary year of the death of Maria Sibylla Merian (1647-1717). Bringing together over 50 exquisite watercolours by Merian and her daughers. Merian had been fascinated by butterflies, moths and the phenomenon of metamorphosis, and became one of the first to engage with this field of study. www.royalcollection.org.uk Pineapple with cockroaches, 1702-3 - Royal Collection Trust/© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2016 RETIREMENT

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Out & About

The Queen’s Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse

BOOK REVIEWS

Melanie Ward chooses a selection of books to enhance any coffee table

Book reviews

THINK RURAL

Piet Swimberghe & Jan Verlinde Lannoo Publishers Hardback, £34.95 The latest title in the Think interior design series of books, this one has its focus on interiors in a rural setting. Throughout the book inspiration is provided by numerous aspirational homes owned by architects, interior designers and antique dealers who have allowed the reader to take a look at their unique and eclectic style. The book is perfect for anyone who aspires to creating a home to turn heads or just looking for interior inspiration.

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URBAN JUNGLE LIVING AND STYLING WITH PLANTS

Igor Josifovic & Judith de Graaff Callwey Hardback, £25.00 This is the perfect book for those wanting to bring the outdoors in. We are taken on a tour of green homes in five European countries each with a botanical interior to inspire.The book is full of styling tips and ideas on ways to incorporate plants into an interior setting. Last but not least, readers are also given tips on how to care for their indoor plants. A must have for those who want to live in a green setting.

CHROMAPHILIA: THE STORY OF COLOUR IN ART

Stella Paul Phaidon Hardback, £29.95 This is a fascinating and unique look at the history of colour in art, incorporating all periods and cultures from ancient times to the present day. The book looks at 240 major artworks throughout history to explore the role of colour from cave paintings to works by artists including Picasso and Matisse. Ten chapters are devoted to earth colours, showcasing how the particular colour has influenced art. A must have book for serious students and non academics alike.

ICONIC WHISKY

Cyrille Mald & Alexandre Vingtier Jacqui Small Hardback £20 A must have book for both the lover and connoisseur of whisky. This book features 1,000 branded whiskies from around the world. The author imparts his wealth of knowledge giving the reader all they need to know in order to refine and reinforce their knowledge of whisky culture and tasting technique. The book provides an amazing informative background about whiskies worldwide and is the perfect gift for the connoisseur.

Male Students from the Royal School of Needlework

Brian Hunt, Silk Shading Red Setter

Men Do Embroidery Too!

Brian Hunt

met so many good friends and learnt so much in the five years I’ve now been doing it. My favourite technique is Blackwork because I really like the effect in produces. However my best piece of all is my dog – a Red Setter created using Silk Shading. It took over 9 months to embroider, I am not sure how many hours, but I am very proud of it.” The RSN’s Certificate & Diploma in Technical Hand Embroidery gives the opportunity to become part of a long tradition of maintaining the highest standard in the beautiful art of hand embroidery. Whether you have always wanted to learn embroidery and now have the time or simply want to keep your mind active, the RSN’s Certificate & Diploma is a flexible course to suit everyone. Students can begin the course at any time during the year and even choose days that suit them. The Certificate concentrates on the core techniques comprising Jacobean Crewelwork, Silk Shading, Basic Goldwork and either Canvas Stitches or Blackwork. The Diploma develops these skills, taking them

to the next level. Additional techniques taught on the Diploma include Appliqué, Stumpwork and Whitework. In addition to the Certificate & Diploma course, the RSN teaches over 200 Day Classes from beginners to advanced, a BA (Hons) Degree in Hand Embroidery for Fashion, Interiors & Textile Art and the Future Tutors programme which trains its own teachers for the next generation. Tuition is delivered in small, friendly classes with expert RSN Tutors bringing a wealth of experience, technical knowledge and enthusiasm to each student. Students can learn around the UK at Hampton Court Palace in south west London, Exeter, Bristol, Rugby, Durham and Glasgow. The RSN also teaches internationally in Ireland, Japan and North America. For more information on courses visit royalneedlework.org.uk or call +44 (0)20 3166 6932. If you would like to see over 70 examples of hand embroidery, the RSN’s current exhibition at Hampton Court Palace, called ‘Stories in Stitch’, runs until August. Showcasing a wide range of work in Appliqué, Stumpwork and Raised Embroidery, the pieces are from the RSN’s Archive Collection and Students. Don’t miss all your favourite stories brought to life with the Art of Hand Embroidery. Visitors can immerse themselves in these three enchanting techniques which lend themselves so perfectly to the world of storytelling.Tours start from £16. Please note that pre-booking is essential as the exhibition is in the RSN’s Embroidery Studio which is only open on certain days n To book, visit www.royal-needlework.org.uk or contact natalie.thew@royal-needlework.org.uk and on +44(0)20 3166 6939. RETIREMENT

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Men do embroidery too!

he Royal School of Needlework was founded in 1872 and is the international centre of excellence for the art of hand embroidery. From hand embroidering Her Majesty The Queen’s Coronation Robe in 1953 to working for Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen on HRH The Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding dress, the Royal School of Needlework has plenty to shout about. Steeped in history with unrivalled expertise in the techniques of hand embroidery, the RSN has taken this captivating, traditional art and made it relevant today. This year it is on a mission to cast aside the misconception that embroidery is only done by women and encouraging more men to take up this traditional skill and art. Dr Susan Kay-Williams, Chief Executive of the Royal School of Needlework commented: “The art of hand embroidery is for men and women of all ages. It can appeal to so many people for different reasons. Some of our students learn embroidery as a therapeutic hobby, whilst others are looking to enhance their skills for their career, in particular, with the resurgence of embroidery in fashion. “The recent Opus Anglicanum exhibition at London’s V&A Museum showcased magnificent craftsmanship of medieval embroidery which was very sought after in its time and interestingly, stitched by both men and women.We want to encourage more people to take up this art as their new hobby and to ensure that these traditional skills continue to pass on to all generations.” Meet Brian Hunt, aged 76 from Rugby, who is currently studying the RSN’s Certificate & Diploma in Technical Hand Embroidery. “I really enjoy studying with the RSN. I’ve

PROTECTING ANIMALS ABROAD

Image courtesy of EAST

By Mike Francis

n Animal Charity recently estimated that up to 550,000 animals are currently held in captivity at wildlife entertainments worldwide and claims that any attraction that encourages unnatural behaviour or human interaction is inherently cruel. Training an elephant in countries such as India and Thailand in the interest of tourism can involve separating it from the mother and breaking its spirit in a process known as ‘the crush’ with long periods spent in chains.Yet tourism is just one of the threats to the safety of animals in the wild. Illegal game hunters are now able to encroach on areas which were relatively safe because of newly built roads. And despite crackdowns and punitive laws by individual countries animals are still being illegally hunted down for the pet trade, for traditional medicine, tourist attractions and wild meat. A list was drawn up a few years ago by 8,000 eminent scientists of the 100 most endangered species on the planet simply because humans had no real use for them. At the other end of the spectrum stray animals can cause populations to spiral out of control. For too many animals charities are the last hope of a lifeline.

WORLD PERSPECTIVE

Charity may begin at home but doesn’t need to stop there. We are naturally more aware of the dangers to animals over here whether in a domestic or wild habitat but on the world stage different dangers on different terrain are lurking and we may forget that foreign fields need our financial support too.The popularity of wildlife programmes on television show that we are interested but they don’t tell the whole story There are several animal charities based in the UK which are dedicated to raising funds for animal protection overseas.

ANGLO ITALIAN SOCIETY FOR THE PROTECTION OF ANIMALS

This UK based charity founded in 1952 raises funds for animal welfare organisations in Italy. Last year it provided financial support for over 30 projects helping to rescue, lovingly care for and locate new homes for thousands of animals in Italy. Over 80,000 cats and 50,000 dogs are abandoned each year here and 80 per cent of them die shortly afterwards. AISPA’s ambitious aim is to reduce stray populations and improve conditions for domestic and wild animals in Italy. The recent earthquake there has meant extra work to help animals injured and displaced by the disaster. Funds raised help to purchase medicines,surgical equipment,rescue vehicles and education training. The origins of the pioneering spirit of the company began in the 1890’s when Leonard Hawksley was on a tour of Italy little realising that he would become a pioneer of animal protection in the country. He witnessed horses and mules with spiked reins and bits studded with sharp nails. He challenged organised crime and cruel practices and set up the Hawksley Society for the Protection of Animals and Birds. In 1952 this was taken over by AISPA.

Protecting animals abroad

ENDANGERED ASIAN SPECIES TRUST

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AISPA Stray cat on thrown out mattress

Another UK based animal charity founded 10 years ago has a mission to support the conservation of endangered wildlife in Asia, tackling illegal wildlife trade, and encouraging community education, responsible tourism and respect for all wildlife in Vietnam. Many primates arrive malnourished, stressed and socially deprived and the Dao Tien Centre works to prepare them physically and mentally for the wild before being released. At the moment a pair of golden cheeked gibbons are in a semi-wild forest to perfect their tree skills prior to release. One was found peppered with gunshot pellets in the bottom of a rat cage. With his new female friend he is making a good recovery.The fact that there are less than 25,000 golden-cheek gibbons left in South Vietnam and Cambodia shows how important this conservation work is.

Twinkle Trust Cat Cafe

Twinkle Trust

operations later the company has not only neutered many cats but has widened its remit to rehouse them as well. They also organise cat cafes in hotel grounds which provide safe feeding areas with fresh food and water so they can monitor the cats and ensure they get vet attention when sick or in need of sterilisation.

ANIMALS HAVE NO NATIONALITY

The pioneering Leonard Hawksley was often irked by critics who asked why a foreigner was meddling in a country that was not his own. He would snap back at them ‘ because animals have no nationality ! ‘n

For further information: TWINKLE TRUST

This small animal charity based in Croydon was inspired by a holiday visit to the island of Fuerteventura over 20 years ago where the stray cat population was out of control. Twinkle was the name of the first cat the lady founder of the Trust adopted. Today, 20,000

Anglo Italian Society for the Protection of Animals (AISPA) www.AISPA.org.uk Endangered Asian Species Trust (EAST) www.go-east.org Twinkle Trust www.twinkletrust.org For over 60 years AISPA has been the voice of those who do not have a voice. Thanks to your support we can help animal welfare projects in Italy to rescue, lovingly look after and find a new home for thousands of animals. Please help our projects to do more and to do it better. Please check out our website www.aispa.org.uk Email us at info@aispa.org.uk or fill out the form below and return it to us by post. -----------------------YES, I WANT TO SUPPORT AISPA I enclose a donation of £ ............................... (Cheque/PO/CAF made payable to: AISPA) Please Gift Aid my donation. AISPA will send you Gift Aid information Name ........................................................................

Bianchina, 8 years old, Palermo LNDC kennel

Address .................................................................... .................................................................................... .................................................................................... ..................................................................................... Post Code ................................................................

She cannot find the Words

WE CAN

AISPA, Anglo-Italian Society for the Protection of Animals 30-34 New Bridge Street, London, EC4V 6BJ UK registered charity no. 208530 RT/17 RETIREMENT

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Protecting animals abroad

....................................................................................

Romantic English

Homes

FARM HOUSE NORTHUMBERLAND Northumberland is England’s northernmost county, as well as being the most sparsely populated: there are only some 62 people per square kilometre. Being on the border with Scotland, this part of the country was for many centuries the scene of regular conflict, hence another local statistic is that Northumberland has the largest number of castles of any English county. A large section of Hadrian’s Wall also passes through here, evidence of the area’s importance even in the Roman period.

Romantic English Homes

lthough Julius Caesar first invaded Britain in 55 BC, it was almost a hundred years later before the Emperor Claudius sent a large force to the island to establish firm control of these territories. Although the south was soon subjugated, the northern part of England and what is now the Scottish lowlands continued to cause trouble, even after further advances were made during the reign of Vespasian. So when the Emperor Hadrian visited Britain in 122 AD, he ordered a wall be built between the Solway Firth in the west and the River Tyne in the east ‘to separate Romans from Barbarians’. While the wall accomplished this task for a time, as the Roman Empire disintegrated the northern tribes once more encroached into England and this would remain the case for more than a millennium. Whoever controlled Northumberland wielded considerable power because the county served as a protective barrier against threatened invasion from Scotland. Based at Alnwick since the thirteenth century, the Percys, who became Earls and later Dukes of Northumberland, were the most important family in the region. By special enactment in 1382, for instance, the first Earl was ordered to remain on his estates to protect the border. Six years later his son Henry Percy, immortalised by Shakespeare as Harry Hotspur, was taken prisoner fighting against the Scots at the Battle of Otterburn. In 1513, King James IV of Scotland was slain in the battle of Flodden Field on Branxton Moor. By this time, centuries of cross-border skirmishing had led to Northumberland being notorious for lawlessness and it was only with the accession of Scotland’s James VI to the English throne as James I that the county finally began to come under the authority of central government. Later the county experienced a different kind of upheaval as it played a significant role in the Industrial Revolution; the presence of large supplies of coal in Northumberland not only led to the development of mines but also, in order to transport the coal, the creation of some of the earliest railway lines. Since the decline in mining throughout England, Northumberland has reverted to being a predominantly rural country dependent on agriculture. The disappearance of heavy industry has also meant the romance of the region’s wild moorland landscape is more RETIREMENT

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widely appreciated than was formerly the case. Today about a quarter of the county is largely protected from development as the Northumberland National Park, an area stretching south from the Scottish border to include Hadrian’s Wall. It is precisely the unspoilt character of the Northumberland countryside that led the owner of this farmhouse to acquire the property in 2004. Situated six miles inland from the coast and not far from Alnwick, the building was originally constructed as two cottages around 1820 but is believed to have become a single dwelling at the start of the last century. One of the most distinctive features of its exterior is that half of the house’s roof is covered in fired clay pantiles, the other in slate, the latter being more customary for the area. Quite why this should be the case has never been understood, the feature being even more inexplicable since the same family of sheep farmers inhabited the property from the time it was built until the 2004 sale. Surrounded by open farmland and with few other houses within sight, the site is extremely exposed to the elements and protected only by the area’s traditional dry-stone walls. A great deal of work had to be undertaken during the house’s yearlong restoration: its owner remembers her son standing in mud inside what is now the kitchen looking at the sky above him. That space underwent the most radical alteration since it had hitherto been a coalhole. No evidence of this function is now apparent, not least because the tongue-and-groove ceiling rises some fourteen feet above

An extract from Romantic English Homes by Robert O’Byrne, published by CICO Books (£30) Photography by Simon Brown © CICO Books the oak floorboards. Elsewhere as much as possible, the house’s original features were retained, not least the main staircase which a local specialist re-grained, as he did other woodwork such as doorframes. But a lot of the basic fabric had to be replaced. The main north-facing entrance, for example, already had a glass porch but this was so badly weathered that demolition was inevitable. It was replaced with a new one, today painted a welcoming bright red. Inside, the furnishings have come from a diverse range of sources, reflecting the owner’s interests. The entrance hall tiles, for example, although they look like typical examples of Victorian encaustic work actually came from Morocco, while the sitting room’s large stone chimneypiece is French. However, most of the pictures abundantly hung throughout the building are by British artists. At the moment, this house is used primarily for weekends and holidays and the owner describes it as a work in progress. With family connections in the area, her ambition is to move there permanently in the years ahead, so that the romantic surrounding Northumberland landscape can be enjoyed on a daily basis n

Built around 1820, the house was originally two farm workers’ cottages but made into a single family home at the start of the last century. As can be seen here, unusually one half of the roof is traditionally covered in local slate, the other in pantiles. Each side of the building retains its own entrance, that on the north front now distinguished by a bright red porch which replaced an older one too far dilapidated to be rescued during the restoration.

The guest bedroom’s chest of drawers was found at Battersea Antiques Fair. Above it hangs a painting of sunflowers by twentieth-century neoromantic artist Charles Mahoney.

The kitchen was originally a coalhole and had to be entirely rebuilt during restoration, allowing a high pitched ceiling to be installed. Many of the furnishings reflect an interest in the late nineteenth-early twentieth-century Arts and Crafts Movement; the table and chairs here, for example, are by the influential architect and designer Ernest Gimson. The colourful cups an saucers are examples of work by potter Anne Stokes, while many of the pictures on the wall were painted by the owner’s children.

The walls of the children’s bedroom are covered in paper hand-printed from lino cuts by Marthe Armitage, who has been working in this field since the middle of the last century and using the same press for more than forty years. The pair of French beds came from London antique dealer Judy Greenwood. RETIREMENT

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Romantic English Homes

The front door opens into a hall which appears to be floored in Victorian encaustic tiles; in fact, they are of recent manufacture and came from Morocco. The painting of Wiltshire on the end wall is by David Inshaw.

JJC JJ

C C J JC

J JC J JC

JJ COOPER & SONS Exclusive Park Home Estates

HERE QUALITY IS A FAMILY TRADITION

New development of 30 bungalow style park homes, nearly all sold at Garstons Park, last few remaining. Prices from £145.000. All prices on all our parks include Landscaped Garden & Driveway. Private Residential Estates for the over 45s. New Stateley Albion Topaz 45x20 available at California Country Park Homes for July 2015. Price £295,000 New Stately Albion Badminton 32x22 available at Upton Cross Park for May 2015. Price £190,000 One of our parks receive a new park home each month of the year! We have a pre-booked build slot in place with various manufacturers to guarantee you minimal wait time for your new park home.

New Stately Albion 45 x 20

New Stately Albion Badminton 32 x 22

Exclusive Park Home Estates at: Garstons Park Home Village, Tilehurst, Berkshire, RG31 4TS (Head Office). California Country Park, Finchampstead, Berkshire, RG40 4HT | Kingsleigh Park, Thundersley, Essex, SS7 3QJ Cambridge Lodge Park, Horley, Surrey, RH6 8PR | Upton Cross Park, Poole, Dorset, BH16 5PN | Oxford Park Homes, Sandford-on-Thames, Oxford, OX4 4YT | Bungalow Park, Amesbury, Wiltshire, SP4 7PJ | Robann Park, Fareham, Hampshire.

Call us today 0118 942 8782

info@jjcoopergroup.com | www.jjcoopergroup.com 26

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COMPETITIONS Win tickets to BBC Gardeners’ World Live 15-18 June | Birmingham NEC

Inspiration at your fingertips

For a chance to win, send in your name, address and tel no (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 If you’re seeking unbeatable ideas and inspiration for your garden, look no further. BBC Gardeners’ World Live features Show Gardens, vast Floral Marquee and top experts including Monty Don, Carol Klein, Joe Swift and many more. In this, the year that Gardeners’ World turns 50, the BBC film at the Show for the TV anniversary special and we welcome presenters past and present. You’ll enjoy the Nostalgia Garden, Anniversary Garden, Beautiful Borders themed around this milestone in broadcasting history and more. Plus your tickets include free entry to the BBC Good Food Show Birmingham. Book today | Quote PAR20 to save 20%* on tickets bbcgardenersworldlive.com | 0844 581 1340 *20% off valid on standard advanced tickets only, exc VIP/Luxe. £1.95 fulfilment fee. Calls cost 7p/minute plus phone company’s access charge. Not all experts appear on all days. Details correct at time of print. We have five pairs of tickets to giveaway (valid any day except Saturday) to 5 lucky readers. For a chance to win send in your details quoting ref. GWL PLEASE NOTE WINNING INVITATIONS NEED TO BE ACTIVATED ONLINE AND TICKETS SENT TO WINNERS VIA THEIR EMAIL ADDRESS. Closing date: 31 May 2017

e away! 6 copies to giv

e away! 3 copies to giv The Last Kingdom Season Two is available on Blu-ray & DVD from 8 May courtesy of Universal Pictures (UK)

The Last Kingdom

ALLIED

Director Robert Zemeckis’ intense thriller Hailed as “gripping, powerful and epic”, this seductive thriller makes it’s home entertainment debut on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD and On Demand from Paramount Home Media Distribution and Universal Pictures (UK). Oscar® winners Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard star as Max Vatan and Marianne Beauséjour, two of the world’s deadliest spies, who fall in love while undercover on a top-secret mission and marry during World War II. But when Max learns his wife many be secretly conspiring with the enemy, he has only 72 hours to prove her innocence and save his family before he must do the unthinkable. The film features an outstanding supporting cast including Lizzy Caplan , Jared Harris, August Diehl and Matthew Goode. For your chance to win a DVD of ‘Allied’ send in your details, quoting ref. ALLD Closing date: 31 May 2017.

From Carnival Films comes the highly anticipated second season of the critically acclaimed historical drama THE LAST KINGDOM. Based on Bernard Cornwell’s worldwide best-selling franchise The Saxon Stories don’t miss the incredible new instalment when THE LAST KINGDOM SEASON 2 arrives on Blu-ray™ and DVD from 8th May 2017. Season 1 and 2 Blu-ray™ and DVD box-sets will be released on the same date, courtesy of Universal Pictures (UK). Set in the year 878, the second series sees fearless and instinctive warrior Uhtred (Alexander Dreymon)continue his fight for his native land of Northumbria. Uhtred, having given his sword to King Alfred (David Dawson), despite his upbringing by the invading pagan Danes, embarks on a voyage north to reclaim his own fate: to avenge Earl Ragnar’s death and recapture his ancestral lands of Bebbanburg. For your chance to win a copy of the DVD of ‘Last Kingdom-Season 2’ send in your details, quoting ref. LK2 Closing date: 31 May 2017. RETIREMENT

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Competitions

BASED ON THE NOVELS BY BERNARD CORNWELL

Allied is out on digital now and DVD & Blu-ray 3rd April

Food for Thought National Vegetarian Week 15 – 21 May

Go veggie for a week with recipes from the Vegetarian Society, there to inspire you for every day of National Vegetarian Week, www.vegsoc.org. Here are two of our favourites.

Roasted Spicy Squash Salad Heat up your boring salad with this warm spiced squash recipe. Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients 1 kg butternut squash - peeled, deseeded and cut into 2cm dice

Real Bread Week 6-14 May

1 tsp paprika 50g pumpkin seeds 1 tbsp dark soy sauce 1 tbsp white wine vinegar

British Asparagus and Sweet Potato Hash with Avocado and Egg

140g bag Watercress, Rocket & Spinach Salad

Get creative with your brunch options and rustle up this dish packed with goodness. If you like it hot, just add jalapeno peppers!

What to do:

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Preheat the oven to 200oC, gas mark 6.

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Chicken and Mozzarella Sandwich Loaf

Place squash in a large roasting tin, toss in 2 tbsp oil, chilli flakes, paprika and pumpkin seeds, season and roast for 20 minutes until tender.

Serves: 2

Preparation time: 15 minutes plus standing time

Whisk together the soy, vinegar, honey and remaining oil.

Serves: 4-6 You’ll need: 1 Ciabatta style loaf 2 tbsp pesto 6-8 long Cos Leaves 150g mozzarella, sliced Jar roasted vegetables (Peppers, aubergines, courgettes etc) 1 cooked chicken breast torn into pieces

1 tbsp honey

You’ll need 1 sweet potato, peeled and cut into small chunks 1 bunch British asparagus, spears halved

Place the leaves in a bowl and toss the dressing into the salad leaves.

3tbsp olive oil

Gently mix in the warm squash and serve immediately.

2 handfuls of sweet corn, frozen is fine

1 shallot, finely sliced 1 tsp garlic granules 1 tbsp sliced jalapeno peppers from a jar (optional) 1 avocado, sliced 1 lime 2 eggs What to do:

Cut the top off the loaf approx. ¼ the way down and pull the soft bread out of the centre to make a bowl shape of the crust with a 2cm layer of bread inside.

Boil a kettle and fill a saucepan with the hot water. Add the potato chunks and bring back to the boil. Simmer for 5 minutes then add the asparagus for 2 minutes until softened then drain and leave to steam while you heat half the oil in a large frying pan.

Spread the pesto in a thin layer all over the inside of the bread bowl then layer half of the Cos leaves over the bottom, then add a layer of mozzarella then the roast veg then the chicken. Repeat this till the bread bowl is full. End with a layer of Cos leaves.

Tip the potatoes and asparagus into the hot pan with the shallots, sweet corn, garlic granules and jalapenos. Toss to coat in the oil and season. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the veg is browned and toasty.

Replace the lid and tightly wrap the whole thing in cling film and balance a can on top to weigh it down. Leave to firm up for 1-4 hrs. Cut into slices to serve.

While the veg is cooking heat another non-stick pan with the remaining oil and fry the eggs. Tip the vegetables into 2 bowls, top with slices of avocado, squeeze some lime over and top each with a fried egg.

What to do:

Food for thought

1 tsp crushed chilli flakes

Real Bread Week is the annual celebration of supporting your local, independent Real Bread bakery and baking your own. Why not try this sandwich loaf, ideal to make ahead for a picnic and will definitely stand out from the crowd. Move over limp sarnies, the sandwich loaf has arrived!

Cooking time: 0

3 tbsp olive oil

Note: dry the roast veg and mozzarella on kitchen roll and make sure you don’t use too much pesto to avoid the bread getting too soggy. RETIREMENT

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www.britishasparagus.com

DO YOU KNOW THAT SENDING GOODS TO AUCTION CAN INCUR SIGNIFICANT CHARGES.

EVEN IF YOUR GOODS DON’T SELL OR MEET THE RESERVE YOU WILL OWE THE AUCTION HOUSE MONEY.

Safe at St Margaret Hospice Beautiful but abandoned because of the care she needs, Dumitra now makes the most of life. Although she has little co-ordination, she can now hold her head up and focus on the love in her nurse’s face. She need TLC 24/7 offered by Children in Distress with your help she might live to enjoy life. Please donate at: www.childrenindsitress.org.or call Tina on 0141 559 5690

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. Project2:Layout 1 17/4/13 12:51 Page 1 Tel 01296 632706 and speak to Wendy

Cummings in the first instance or email chilternvintage@gmail.com

CATASTROPHES 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 do not believe in putting animals to sleep unnecessarily and we actively encourage sterilisation as a vital part of pet 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

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

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By Jill Rushton, wills and probate solicitor at the national law firm Stephensons

Court decision highlights the importance of making a will

he decision by the Supreme Court to award £50,000 to 56-year-old Heather Ilott after her ten-year legal battle with three animal charities has been making headlines. The case has also thrown light on some interesting legal developments over years – the growth in bequests to charity and the rise in the number of contested wills. But despite these developments, this case only reinforces how important it is that anyone over the age of 18 should draw up a will. Heather Ilott’s case came about after her mother, Melita Jackson, left her nothing in her will when she died. Instead, Melita Jackson left her money to the Blue Cross, RSPCA and RSPB and her will contained instructions for the executors of her estate to ‘strenuously’ fight any attempt by her daughter to challenge her final wishes. Heather Ilott challenged that will, winning an award of £163,000 at a Court of Appeal hearing. However, the Supreme Court then overturned that decision, restoring an earlier order by a district judge that Health Ilott be awarded £50,000. The difference will go to the three charities. Will disputes like this are on the up. From 2004 – 2009 an average of 485 will, trust and probate cases per year were heard at the Chancellery Court in London. In the following five years, this rose to an average of 633 a year. The causes have been put down to factors such as more complicated modern day family relations and higher stakes due to the rise in house prices. RETIREMENT

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So what does the decision in Heather Ilott’s case indicate for future will disputes? The court decision that a reasonable amount to award to Health Ilott was much less than the Court of Appeal indicated is a significant victory for large national charities for whom gifts in wills are a substantial revenue stream and largely reinforces the right of people to leave their money to whom they want. Nearly £2bn is left in wills to charitable causes annually. The RSPCA, for example, received £63.7m from bequests in 2014 – far more than the £43.1m it obtained from donations and other contributions. Being able to leave money to charity in this way is just one of a number of reasons why every adult should draw up a will – and not just the well off or elderly. A will allows you to leave your money to who you want, whether that’s leaving gifts to the charities you support or giving someone you care about something to remember you by. It also allows you to specify guardians for your children and give those guardian’s guidance on bringing up your children. If you don’t have a will, then you have no say on what happens to them after you die. You can also use a will to specify your funeral arrangements. Many people put off drawing one up, often because it feels morbid. They can feel awkward discussing the issue with loved ones or they just don’t know how to go about making a will. Dying intestate – without a will - can cause immense distress to your loved ones, at a time when they are already grieving over the loss of someone close to them.

Dying intestate can mean your estate ends up in the hands of an ex-husband or wife, or a distant relative you don’t know, rather than the person you would have liked to leave it to. Under the rigid rules of intestacy, your estate is shared with your married or civil partner and other blood relatives in a strict order of priority. Many unmarried couples assume there is no need for a will. However, despite this being widely known as a ‘common law marriage’ the arrangement has no legal standing. Unmarried partners, step-children and stepgrandchildren do not inherit under intestacy. Without a will, there’s even a risk that your estate could end up in the Government’s hands. The assets of people who die intestate with no known immediate relatives are advertised at a rate of around 40 estates a week. About £50m a year ends up going to the Crown. It’s big money. That’s why heir hunting companies make a tidy profit from tracking down the living heirs of people who die intestate. Finally, even if you do want to leave your estate to the same person who would inherit under intestacy rules, you should still make a will.Without one, the business of settling your affairs could take much longer and can cost thousands of pounds. Making a will can be relatively simple and inexpensive. A solicitor can usually draw up a basic will for around £250. A joint will can cost around £400. The process is usually fairly straight forward and probate solicitors are experienced in dealing with all sorts of issues around wills and inheritance. In short, there’s nothing to fear n www.stephensons.co.uk

Reflect & remember

A gift in memory of a loved one will directly benefit the lives of thousands of people in your area struggling with lung disease, heart disease or recovering from a stroke. Help us make sure no-one faces their condition alone.

0300 1212 555 | gifts@chss.org.uk | www.chss.org.uk/sapphirefunds CHSS Advice Line Nurses | 0808 801 0899 | adviceline@chss.org.uk (Free from landlines and mobiles)

We are Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health Charity Scottish Charity Number SC018761

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Charity N E W S Bransby Horses Nurse Five Arabs Back to Full Health In January 2016, the RSPCA responded to a call at an address near Newark, Nottinghamshire. Following additional assistance from local equine welfare and rescue charity, Bransby Horses, and Lincolnshire Police, five Arab horses were removed from appalling conditions. Said RSPCA Inspector, Daniel Bradshaw: “On arrival at the address I found one collapsed horse in a stable surrounded by three others in poor condition. The collapsed horse was extremely thin and appeared to be near to death. “In a second stable, a fifth emaciated horse was discovered. The two stables which the five Arabs were housed in were extremely dirty, damp and dark. Water was available but no food or clean bedding was present.” Following their rescue, the five horses have been cared for by Bransby Horses who provided specialist veterinary treatment and round the clock care, costing the charity tens of thousands of pounds. Now legally owned by the charity, the five horses will hopefully find loving foster homes.

Reflect and Remember Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland is asking people to reflect and remember a loved one especially as we enter a new year to help benefit the lives of others. Giving in memory of a loved one is a very positive way to help while reflecting on special memories.

For further information please contact Bransby Horses on 01427 788464 or visit www.bransbyhorses.co.uk.

CHSS strives for a healthier Scotland, where no one dies too soon of preventable chest, heart and stroke conditions and it works hard to ensure all of those affected receive the highest standards of care, treatment and support.

Help give families, like Eileen’s a future free from hunger

It does this through community support (local support services across Scotland for people living with chest, heart and stroke conditions), advice and information (a free, nurse led Advice Line for all Tel: 0808 801 0899 and downloadable factsheets) influencing public policy (lobbying the Scottish government) and funding vital research studies.

Said Ryan Rouse, Bransby Horses’ Head of External Welfare: “This rescue was one of the most shocking cases of neglect our team had ever seen and it took months to nurse the horses back to full health. “We are delighted the RSPCA subsequently got the case to court and that the owner was sentenced. We just hope with public support, the five year ban will be enforced.”

Four-year-old Eileen and her mother, Grace eating cassava fritters, one of the meals Grace learned to make in the cooking demonstrations given by the Kachere Care Group. Jennifer Nolan/Malawi/2016.

Life can be particularly hard for those coping with a chest, heart or stroke condition as those affected may well be socially isolated, in financial distress or discomfort. CHSS aims to combat this across Scotland through its services. As you remember someone close to your heart, support them now for stronger, longer lives in Scotland! Call Anne on 0131 225 6963, email: gifts@chss.org.uk, or visit www.chss.org.uk/sapphirefunds. Concern Worldwide has been working in Malawi since 2002, one of the poorest countries in the world.

Charity News

Crop failures caused by shock weather changes such as severe drought or flooding have left one in three Malawians in need of assistance. With the help of gifts left in wills, they have been able to help some of Malawi’s poorest people, like four-year-old Eileen, escape a life of hunger.

Eileen lives with her mother, Grace, in the Mchinji district of Malawi. Grace is seven months pregnant and has recently become a member of the Kachere Care Group. This is one of many care groups set up across Malawi, thanks to the generosity of people like you. Here, Grace can learn about the nutrients she and her children need, with training in a range of subjects including, nutrition, hygiene, planting crops suitable for the climate, vegetable gardening and fruit tree growing. She can also take part in cooking lessons. With this knowledge, Grace and her family can lead a happier, healthier life. Concern Worldwide has worked for over 40 years in 27 of the world’s poorest countries, combining their expertise with local knowledge to help communities develop their own lasting solutions to hunger. To find out more on how a gift in your Will could make a life changing difference to a family like Eileen’s, visit www.concern.net/legacies, call Rachel Proctor on 028 9026 8019 or email legacy.enquiries@concern.net. RETIREMENT

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TH RE E OU T OF FO UR HO RS ES HA VE A SE CO ND CH AN CE AT LIF E * LLS WI IN S FT GI TO TH AN KS

Donations only make up a quarter of our income

BRANSBY HORSES, DEPT. RT., BRANSBY, LINCOLN, LN1 2PH BRANSBY HORSES IS A REGISTERED CHARITY NO: 1075601

Bransby Horses, Dept. RT., Bransby, Lincoln, LN1 2PH www.bransbyhorses.co.uk | 01427 788464 Bransby Horses is a Registered Charity No: 1075601. Company Limitedquarter by Guarantee and Wales No: 3711676 Legacy page Registered ad.pdf in1England 20/04/2012 15:22

Your legacy is our future

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

If you have ever loved an animal you will know how important their health is. Everything the Animal Health Trust does has the health and welfare of companion animals at its heart. Thanks to previous legacy gifts, the AHTâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;is constantly finding new ways to prevent and reduce the suffering of present and future generations.

For your FREE Legacy Guide please call: 01638 555648 or email us: legacies@aht.org.uk or visit us online: www.aht.org.uk (please quote reference RT17) Registered charity number: 209642

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Please help me get better 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

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. RETIREMENT

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A GHOSTLY VISITOR

The ghost bird, or barn owl as it is commonly known, has speckled feathers on its chest, to denote it is a female. This lady barn owl was sitting forlornly in the middle of an open area in Thame, just a couple of miles down the road from Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital. When she arrived, she was whisked directly into Triage and then onto the x-ray suite for a full once over. The radiograph showed that there was indeed a fracture to the right metacarpus. The team set about strapping the wing to stabilise the fracture. Every other day the straps would be removed and replaced, and physiotherapy was performed on her wing. Despite these efforts, their vet wasn’t happy with the rate of healing and decided to revisit some further solutions. The decision was to tape the primary flight feathers together for added support, and this seems to be doing the trick. She is eating like a horse and is bright and excitable – all good signs indeed. They should be looking at another week of the strapping and physio, then it’s back to the wild for her. www.tiggywinkles.org

Cat lovers urged to join demands to extend air gun laws to England and Wales Cat lovers are being urged to back a major campaign for a change in the law on air guns to bring England and Wales in line with the rest of the UK. Cats Protection says a lack of UK-wide regulation means the vast majority 90% - of air gun attacks on cats happen in England and Wales. Both Northern Ireland and Scotland already have air gun licencing laws in place, and the charity has now launched an online petition to urge the government to bring in regulation across the rest of the UK. Cats Protection’s Advocacy Manager Jacqui Cuff said: “Cats and other animals in England and Wales are hugely vulnerable to being the victim of an air gun attack because there is nothing to stop air guns falling into the wrong hands. “The reality of an air gun attack on a cat is horrific, and around half die as a result of their injuries. Those that survive will endure considerable suffering and may be left with life-long disabilities. Owners can face a great deal of upset and huge vet bills and whole communities can be left deeply worried about attacks of this kind in their neighbourhood. To watch Cats Protection’s campaign video and sign the petition, or find out more about the campaign, please visit www.cats.org.uk/airgunspetition

New statistics reveal how the daily grind is driving us chocolate crazy The British Heart Foundation’s recent survey to launch DECHOX revealed the true extent of ‘cake culture’ in the office, as a third of workers (33%) trying to watch their waistlines say they’ve ditched the diet at least once after being tempted by sweet treats in the workplace. The survey showed that two fifths (40%) of the UK workforce eat chocolate at least every other day during the average working week, with a quarter (25%) saying they are actually incapable of getting through the nine-to-five without succumbing to their chocolate cravings. Further findings can be found on their website.

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Your support powers their research. Every pound raised and every minute of your time will help make a massive difference to peoples’ lives.

By joining their community volunteering team you are joining the fight for every heartbeat. From joining your local BHF Fundraising Group to volunteering as an In Memoriam Secretary, Collection Tin Volunteer or Community and Schools Speaker, there are lots of ways you can help make a difference. Whether you can give just a few hours or a few days, every minute of your time is valuable to them. Find out more at bhf.org.uk/volunteer or call 0300 330 3322 RETIREMENT

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