Retirement today summer 2014

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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 76 Summer £2.90


Celebrating the Red Arrows’ 50th Display Season From The Beatles to Bolero, Queen to Sir Andrew Lloyd-Webber, Big Band to Puccini, the programme of music spans the past five decades and reflects the colour, flamboyance and entertainment provided by ‘Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines’ OCTOBER

Thursday 16 Sunday 19 Saturday 25 Wednesday 29

NOVEMBER

Sunday 2 Tuesday 18 Wednesday 19 Thursday 20 Sunday 23 Thursday 27 Friday 28

DECEMBER Tuesday 2 Saturday 6 Sunday 7 Friday 12

HIGH WYCOMBE BIRMINGHAM HARROGATE BASINGSTOKE

Wycombe Swan Symphony Hall Royal Hall The Anvil

01494 512 000 0121 345 0602 01423 502 116 01256 844 244

GATESHEAD CANTERBURY BRISTOL EASTBOURNE SOUTHEND MANCHESTER NOTTINGHAM

Sage Gateshead Marlowe Theatre Colston Hall Congress Theatre Cliffs Pavilion Bridgewater Hall Royal Centre

0191 443 4661 01227 787 787 0844 887 1500 01323 412 000 01702 351 135 0844 907 9000 0115 989 5555

LONDON IPSWICH NORWICH POOLE

Cadogan Hall Ipswich Regent Theatre Royal Lighthouse

0207 730 4500 01473 433 100 01603 630 000 0844 406 8666

Featuring: The Bands of The Royal Air Force Conductor: Wing Commander Duncan Stubbs Compered by either: Ken Bruce, Alan Dedicoat or Lynn Bowles Ticket prices: £23.00 £20.00 £17.00 London prices: £31.00 £26.00 £21.00 Transaction fees may apply

For more information please go to:

rafinconcert.com


CONTENTS

4 Staying for free- At home and around the globe

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Here comes summer... with the promise of long lazy days filled with sunshine, fun and - a host of housesitting opportunities.

WELCOME TO RETIREMENT TODAY MAGAZINE

6 Kitchen Garden Recipes A celebration of Scottish ingredients, bringing together Carina Contini’s Italian family heritage and her Scottish roots.

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8 When did we all become so adverse to walking? Sarah Liveing, Founder of Walking Works, writes about the importance of walking in your daily life.

11 Friends are Cheaper than Therapy

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Beautifully tinted vintage photos, paired with the perfect witty caption to reveal your friendships as they really are

13 Retirement Living – A Grand Choice

Top right: Image from Carina Contini’s Kitchen Garden Cookbook (Frances Lincoln)

The opportunities for quality retirement living are considerable, Frank Anslow looks at a vast choice of very attractive options.

2nd Right: Image from Cath Tate’s Friends are Cheaper than Therapy (Portico)

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16 Footloose in Italy Read about Debra Rixon’s experiences on foot as she travels round Italy.

Bottom Right: Image from Charleston Trust

WIN

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20 Competitions Your chance to win theatre tickets and three months supply of Regenovex.

22 Out and About Read about events taking place up and down the country.

24 Update Tax Free Living in Europe; UV READER launches its summer 2014 range of Sun Readers; Pension Insurance Corporation Event.

27 Rehoming a Pet for a Fulfilled Retirement • Published by:-

Read about the benefits of owning a pet when you are retired.

Amra Media Solutions Ltd The Old Lavender Mill 46a Brook Street Aston Clinton Buckinghamshire HP22 5ES

31 Animals in need of a home

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• Fax: 01296 632720 • Email: info@amramedia.co.uk

32 Subscription

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32 Perfect Stay This issue we take a look at the luxury cruising option provided by Brittany Ferries to France.

• www.retirement-today.co.uk

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.

Some adorable animals looking for their forever home.

Subscribe and have Retirement Today delivered direct to your door.

• Tel: 01296 632700

• Designed by: Tom Evans Design

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34 A Passion for Piers Seaside piers have been an iconic part of the UK’s coastal heritage for 200 years and continue to enthral and entertain visitors to resorts up and down the land.

38 English Eccentric A celebration of imaginative, intriguing and stylish interiors.

42 Forty Four Little Books A housekeeper’s tale of running an English Country House.

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44 Are you a Dementia Friend? Understand a little more about Dementia and how you can become a ‘Dementia Friend’.

47 The Psychology of Writing a Will Many of us avoid making a will. Dr Lynda Shaw writes about how getting your affairs in order can have a positive effect.

49 Charity News Read about what’s happening within the charity world. RETIREMENT

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Want to move Without the hassle?

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Staying for free - At home and around the globe

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The Bed & Breakfast Nationwide brochure – The Little Green Book – is a comprehensive guide to 600 inspected, quality B&Bs and a selection of self-catering accommodation. Illustrated in colour with detailed descriptions and maps, it features ‘pet friendly’ B&Bs, those with facilities for the less mobile and B&Bs offering something different such as gardens open to the public, sheepdog demonstrations, spinning and fly fishing.

email: office@bbnationwide.co.uk or telephone: 01255 672377 for a free copy quoting ref: RT01 (overseas + p&p) or visit our websites: www.bedandbreakfastnationwide.com www.holidaycottagesnationwide.co.uk RETIREMENT

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ere comes summer... with the promise of long lazy days filled with sunshine, fun and - a host of housesitting opportunities. The chance to housesit anywhere in the world can pop-up at any time. Some people like to savour the thought of a summer break for months in advance, while others take a more spontaneous approach. Sitters are likely to find assignments around the globe, and around the corner, advertised months in advance, weeks away, or, on occasions, with just a few days notice. Sitters who take time to organize themselves by preparing an informative profile and a general letter of introduction will rep the benefits of their own advance planning. When you spot an assignment that appeals, simply pull up your information, make a few adjustments and you’ll be all set to go - hopefully beating your competition off the mark. We have always been good travellers and now that we’re free to spend our time as we wish, there’s no stopping us. Setting off on a six month tour to celebrate early retirement we leased a car and travelled around Europe, with no firm plans where our travels might take us after that. Back to France is where it eventually led, living out a notion that we have considered for many years; we lived in France for six months... and that’s when our travel plans changed.


the globe

We have always been good travellers and now that we’re free to spend our time as we wish, there’s no stopping us. The opportunity to housesit came about and, having decided that as much as we love France and would happily return at a moments notice, living there might remain just a dream, so we headed off to pastures new - although we had no idea that our travels would run non-stop for three years. Combining stays in lovely hotels and longer term assignments in great properties has kept us travelling around the globe. Housesitting not only allows us to visit new parts of the world, it enables us to live like a local and really get to know the area, with time to join in community events - and, it gives us the chance to rest and recharge our batteries for the next leg of our journey. Your own personal reasons for housesitting will play a major part in the type of assignments you look for and are willing to accept. So, draw up a list of your general criteria and prioritise - this may keep you from being swept away by exotic views, or tempted by photos of cute cats and dogs. If you can keep a clear vision of what you want to get out of a housesitting assignment, you will be off to a good start. You can use housesitting to try out a new area, for a spot of R&R, as a possible new base or just to say that you’ve been there and done that.You might enjoy assignments offering the chance to care for a variety of pets; in which case, you’re in luck - the majority of listings do involve pet care - but

other pet free assignments can provide the chance to try out another lifestyle. Maybe living in a different country or county appeals, or how about trying a different style of house, you can provide an on-site presence in a rambling chateaux, or water houseplants in a cosy seaside cottage.Whatever type of assignment you’re looking for, being flexible is key to making the most of housesitting. If your ideal dates don’t exactly match the homeowners timescale, consider staying in a nearby hotel for a few days before or after the assignment, and if you can’t find a home that offers a sea view from the sitting room, you might want to settle for one that’s a few minutes walk from the water. Being adaptable and staying open to compromise has kept our travel schedule full and our camera busy. Be it a beautiful country estate in England, le grand French manor or a spanking new villa in Southern India, we have experienced a slice of many different lifestyles and that would be hard to do staying in even the best hotels.

By keeping an open mind - and open flight tickets - housesitting has presented us with a variety of experiences, cream teas with the neighbours in Wiltshire and a full-blown traditional style wedding in India are just two that jump to mind. We have met some fascinating people and spent many long lazy days lounging by the homeowners swimming pool. If you are the type who enjoys meeting new people, can dive into the deep end and come out with a smile, if you’re careful with other peoples personal belongings and, you take the time to set up your housesitting profile, references and admin systems in advance - there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy summer from a different perspective. So get planning, get searching and get packing your bags - and look forward to enjoy your own summer break and staying for free n

For more information on the How-To of housesitting - check out the website of Les and Lee, the couple featured in our article - and if you would like them to housesit for you, visit their website at wwwstayingforfree.com (Staying for Free .com) RETIREMENT

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Staying for free - At home and around the globe

FREE -

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Kitchen Garden Recipes

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celebration of Scottish ingredients, bringing together Carina Contini’s Italian family heritage and her Scottish roots.

Recipes taken from Carina Contini’s Kitchen Garden Cookbook: A Year of Italian Scots Recipes by Carina Contini. Published by Frances Lincoln, £25.

Kitchen Garden Summer Pudding Everyone loves Victor to bits and thinks he’s the best thing since sliced-bread sandwiches filled with butter and homemade jam. This summer pudding is sliced bread with a lovely inside – just like Victor. When you cut into its regal dome and the abundance of summer fruits cascades out, it’s like discovering buried treasure. It’s Victor in pudding form rather than on a plate for tea-time. SERVES 5–6 1.5kg mixed soft fruits (such as raspberries, blackcurrants, redcurrants and small strawberries) 1 vanilla pod

Fennel, Raspberry & Cucumber Salad SERVES 4 1 small fennel bulb 1 small cucumber, peeled, halved, deseeded and finely sliced 25g flat-leaf parsley leaves, coarsely chopped 25g basil or purple basil leaves, torn 100g raspberries 1–3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp raspberry vinegar or red wine vinegar Salt and freshly ground black pepper Trim and finely slice the fennel. Put into a salad bowl with the cucumber, parsley and basil. Sprinkle the raspberries on top. Dress with the oil and vinegar, salt and plenty of black pepper. Taste for balance. If it’s too sharp, add a little more oil or salt. Serve immediately.

2 tbsp water 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice 200g golden caster sugar 6–7 thick slices of day-old good-quality white bread Lightly whipped cream, to serve To decorate: Small selection of berries Few mint leaves Few pansies Icing sugar Remove the stalks and hulls from the fruit and wipe with a damp cloth. Set aside. Split the vanilla pod lengthways, scrape out the seeds with a sharp knife and put the seeds in a large pan over a low heat with the water, lemon juice and sugar. When the sugar has dissolved, add the prepared fruit. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the fruits start to release their juices.

Italian Scots Recipes

Taste to see if you need to add any more sugar. While the fruit is cooking, hold the pan by the handle and move it around.

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Try not to mix the fruit with a spoon as this can bruise it and make it mushy. Remove from the heat and strain through a sieve into a large bowl. Reserve the juices. Leave the fruit and juice to cool. Meanwhile, remove the crusts from the bread. Line a 1kg pudding basin with a large sheet of cling film. This will help the pudding come out of the basin intact. Now line the basin with bread dipped in the reserved juices. Cut a circle from one slice of bread and place it in the bottom of the basin. Cut another circle that will fit the top of the basin and set it aside. Cut the remaining bread into Mars Bar-shaped pieces that are long enough to reach from the bottom to the top edge of the basin. Arrange these around the inside of the basin. Be as gentle as possible: too much handling or squashing, and the bread will become dense. When the fruit has cooled, spoon it into the bread-lined basin. Gently press it down so there are no gaps. Place the bread lid on top and gently press it down. Make sure the fruit is completely covered with the bread, then trim off any excess from the edges. Spoon some of the reserved juice over the top to cover, then stand the basin on a large plate and weigh the top down with another plate. The juices may run over so the bottom plate is there to keep your fridge clean. Refrigerate overnight. To unmould the pudding, stand over the sink and reverse the basin onto the plate. Remove the basin and the cling film. Wipe away any excess juices, decorate with a few berries, some mint leaves and some pansies, then dust with icing sugar. Serve with a generous dollop of lightly whipped cream.


Potato & Pea Salad with a Garlic & Lime Dressing SERVES 4 500g new potatoes 150g fresh peas, podded weight Large handful of mint leaves, torn 1 garlic clove Salt and freshly ground black pepper 2–3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil small handful of flat-leaf parsley leaves Juice of 1 unwaxed lime Peel the potatoes and put them in a pan with salt and cold water to cover. If necessary, cut them to ensure they are all the same size. Bring to the boil, then lower the heat and simmer until the potatoes are cooked but still have some bite. Drain and place on a large serving platter or bowl. Scatter the uncooked peas and half the mint leaves on top. Using a pestle and mortar, cream the garlic with a little salt, then loosen with some olive oil. Add the remaining mint and the parsley, together with enough oil and lime juice to make a loose dressing. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then drizzle over the potato and pea salad.

Dried Blueberry & Cinnamon Shortbread We make hundreds of thousands of shortbread biscuits every year. We’ve always served a tiny unexpected treat to our customers with our coffee and tea. The basic mixture can be tweaked to give a whole variety of different characters. Stem ginger, lavender, cranberry and chocolate chip are all classic flavourings but these little dried blueberry and cinnamon sweeties are a seasonal best-seller. MAKES approx. 70 200g unsalted butter 125g caster sugar, plus extra for sprinkling 300g plain flour, sieved, plus extra for dusting 75g cornflour 100g dried blueberries ó tsp ground cinnamon

Italian Scots Recipes

Preheat the oven to 180ºC/350ºF/Gas 4 and line a baking tray with greaseproof paper. Cream the butter and sugar together in a bowl until light and fluffy. Slowly fold in the flour and cornflour until well incorporated, then fold in the blueberries and cinnamon. Transfer to a floured surface and roll out to a thickness of 3–5mm. Using a scone or biscuit cutter, cut the dough into small rounds. Place on the baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes or until golden. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with a little caster sugar, then leave to cool on a wire rack. RETIREMENT

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WHEN DID WE ALL BECOME SO AVERSE TO WALKING?

When did we all become so averse to walking?

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ow many of us drive to the shops when they are easily within walking distance or catch a bus to get to the other end of the high street? Our culture of apathy towards walking is contributing to the over 50s becoming obese and unfit, according to walking expert and health motivator Sarah Liveing, (53) Founder of Walking Works, who is urging us to take a 30 minute walk three times a week. Walking is so essential to daily life that it can be connected to everything from great expeditions and feats of endurance, to walking into your home after a hard day at work or your baby’s first steps. However Liveing believes that our increased reliance on public transport, a culture of multi-tasking too many things, combined with jobs where we spend the majority of time sitting is leading to the dangerous idea that taking the quickest method of transport is far more preferable to walking. Liveing doesn’t just talk the talk, she walks the walk having lost eight stone through walking and having built her business around walking. Walking Works takes Liveing’s already successful scheme (Walking for Weight Loss) of structured walking alongside healthy eating to businesses and allowing them to reap the rewards such as decreased health risks and reducing sick leave days, better staff retention as well improving communications between staff. “In my experience of working with clients, the one message that consistently comes across is a sense of surprise that one can do something as basic as walking to improve fitness and aid weight loss. We live in a society where RETIREMENT

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towards walking? Sarah believes it is largely due to our lifestyles: “If you compare today’s society to that of 100, 50 or even 20 years ago, it is easy to see where the problem lies. The rapid growth of car ownership has had a huge transformational effect on us as a society. It is now considered the norm to take the car everywhere, even on a five minute dash to the shops or to school. Secondly, we are now in the office or at work for longer, meaning more time is spent sat down and physically sedentary. The effect of these longer working hours is that we are exhausted and are a highly stressed and overworked nation. Many use this tiredness as the ideal excuse to avoid exercising.” Cognitive neuroscientist Dr Lynda Shaw agrees: “We are juggling so many balls in the air these days it can be hard to prioritise going to the gym or organising sport. Set yourself small, realistic and manageable goals. There is nothing more de-motivating than feeling like the message of The biggest advantage you’re failing. extreme fitness Work exercise of walking of course is and workouts are into your routine that it is free. promoted, largely by getting off the in part by the celebrities we tend to bus one stop early or worship. Who has the time? Some of parking your car us also feel intimidated to go the gym in the carpark or find it too expensive. Research has as far as you shown that moderate regular exercise can from the is actually much better for you than entrance of the an extreme workout especially if you super market. aren’t that fit to begin with, carry S u c c e e d i n g injuries or perhaps are feeling your in your goals Sarah pre-walking age a little.” can be the most It is an opinion that is backed up motivational way of by research by online continuing with what you’re trying accountants Crunch. to achieve. co.uk, which found Liveing says: “As paradoxical as it that Brits are wasting sounds, walking can help to boost £37million a year on energy levels long-term in those gym memberships, who are tired. This is because regular exercise and slimming physical activity increases the blood classes they never flow to your body and improves your attend. “The biggest cardiovascular health and fitness. This advantage of walking will allow more blood and oxygen of course is that it is to get to the body providing energy free. It can be done to do work. Adopt a strategy that anytime and anywhere prioritises some form of walking to suit you, and you can each day. Even a leisurely walk take a friend along for with the dog in the evening now a natter. Additionally, that the lighter summer months are the chances of you approaching, or a brisk 20 minute pulling a muscle or walk around the block during your obtaining an injury lunch break can have a wonderful are far less than more effect on your health and well-being. extreme activities.” Walking is free, it’s for anyone and it However, the vast can usually be fitted into your day majority of us are not one way or another, we have just tempted by the idea. somehow managed to lose our love So why are we all of walking along the way.” apparently so apathetic www.walking-works.com Sarah Liveing


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A retirement apartment you own with peace of mind as standard

“Everyone is friendly and sociable here. We’re like one big fa mily.” Maureen Mitchell, Homeowner

When you own a McCarthy & Stone retirement apartment, you get more than just a beautiful home. It’s also a chance to meet new people and widen your social circle. We’ve over 100 great locations nationwide with brand new apartments to suit every taste. Each development comes with a homeowners’ lounge for socialising and a guest suite* for when friends and family come to stay. For added peace of mind there’s a camera entry system and a dedicated House Manager, plus all gardening and exterior maintenance is taken care of. Moving is made easy too as we offer a range of services to help make the process as smooth as possible.

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House Manager Convenient locations Homeowners’ lounge Private Car Parking# 24 hour security with camera entry system and alarms

✓ Landscaped garden ✓ Low maintenance apartments ✓ Guest suite* ✓ Help with your move

*Extra charge applies. #Subject to availability.

With McCarthy & Stone you’ll own your own home and have more time to enjoy life. It’s no surprise that our homeowners often tell us they wish they had made the move years ago.

THE UK’S LEADING RETIREMENT DEVELOPER Get your FREE McCarthy & Stone brochures For myself Friend/relative For your free brochures plus information from the McCarthy & Stone Group simply fill in your details and address your envelope in capitals to:

Please tick all that apply. Interest:

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Friends are Cheaper than Therapy

Cheer up! Your friends love you – they really do!

Beautifully tinted vintage photos, paired with the perfect witty caption to reveal your friendships as they really are.

Here we are: powerful, erotic and ready to go

A friend is someone who likes you even though they know you

People who are late are always so much jollier than their friends who have to wait!

“We didn’t know how unhappy we were until we had therapy”

“It’s being so cheerful that keeps me going!

Friends are Cheaper than Therapy

The donkey dreaded hen parties

Featured extract is from Cath Tate’s Friends are Cheaper Than Therapy published by Portico. RETIREMENT

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RETIRE TAX-FREE TO THE ALGARVE

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etween 10% and 33% of Europe’s population would like to retire abroad, preferably to warm, sunny locations. Money matters such as cost of living and low tax, health, lifestyle and safety are high on the list of priorities. 50+ residents from all over the world have already selected the Algarve, voted Europe’s best beach and golfing destination, as their retirement home. For most, purchasing real estate has been the only available solution. Now, Algarve Senior Living offers flexible permanent and long-stay rentals in its Algarve villages. New residents in Portugal will benefit from zero inheritance tax, no wealth taxes and the ability to receive pensions or foreign income tax-free for a period of 10 years. Algarve Senior Living villages offer quality lifestyle, superior accommodation, exceptional facilities, medical services and a variety of activities and

dining options, delivered with a personal touch. Clients can stay for the winter or adopt the Algarve as their permanent year-round residence. Try-before-you-move to see whether the country and its culture is for you. Make new friends and become part of a new community. Professionally active residents can work from home, and family can visit. Residents can ‘trade’ up or down depending on their evolving needs. No need to sell up back home. Nor to get a new mortgage. Invest your pension on a better quality of life and live a lifestyle which is healthier and less stressful. With the cost of living lower than further north, and less tax to pay, imagine how much further your pension will go! n Contact Luis da Silva on +442081447558 or +351965683054, or via e-mail at luis.dasilva@ algarveseniorliving.com for more information.

The benefits: • Tax efficient: no tax on pensions or foreign income for new residents. • Cost-effective: no property purchase means you spend money on yourself and your lifestyle. You always have the option of buying a home when you have settled in. • Choice: choose your accommodation type, services, meal options, leisure activities. Adapt as your needs change. • Flexibility: come to live permanently or stay for the winter. • Community: meet new people and make new friends. Settle into your new lifestyle.

NEWLY

RELEA

FOR S

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A&H Developments(Killin) Ltd are proud to announce their unique new development of 14 two bedroom/two bathroom traditionally built homes set in the conservation village of Killin and within the enchanting Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Designed and Built by Award Winning Companies, the first one will be completed mid October 2014. A Highland Park home is the ideal downsizing in retirement home or a second holiday home investment providing you with an income when you do not wish to occupy. Factored by Peverel Scotland therefore no external upkeep. 10 Year NHBC Warranty for peace of mind Prices held from £239.500 to £249.500 until end July 2014. Early Bird Reservations mean more choice of kitchens and bathrooms etc. Enquire now on 0800 7834449 for a brochure and more information. 12

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Many retirees feel somewhat cautious about making a move. They feel insecure at the thought of perhaps being without adequate care or help when the needs arise. A look at a few of the options available both in the UK and abroad, should help to re assure retirees that there is much on offer to cater for there every requirement, without the need for any concern.

The Hawthorns – Retire with Style

Retirement Living A Grand Choice By Frank Anslow

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Retirement Living - A Grand Choice

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he opportunities for quality retirement living are considerable, with a vast choice of very attractive options. Whether your preferred choice is to enjoy the pleasures and attractions available in the UK, or if a retirement abroad is your take, there is so much on offer. There are options to rent or buy retirement properties or accommodation in a number of attractive locations, where the needs of the senior person have been very carefully and properly considered. In many cases retirement living can be viewed as opulent living, as a great deal of thought has been given to the quality of the excellent facilities that are available. There are many ways to help finance a change in lifestyle, for example it could be that you own your own home but you would like to rent a place abroad for a period of time.You could let your home and this would pay, or help to pay, for the rental of a property or accommodation abroad. Or you may want to re locate to one of the excellent retirement complex buildings available in the UK. Again this could be funded, or part funded, by renting out your own property. All of this can be done without having to make the life changing decision of selling your home, and you can simply return whenever the time is right. Of course some people may want to sell their home to provide capital to either lease or purchase a retirement property, and are comfortable doing so.

The Hawthorns Retirement Homes are located at three beautiful locations: Braintree, Clevedon and Eastbourne. The Hawthorns offers studio one and two bedroom private apartments in a hotel style facility. The apartments are rented on a monthly lease without any need for a capital investment to purchase. The apartments are carpeted ready to take the occupiers own furniture. All living costs are included in the monthly rental. (including building insurance, maintenance, community charge, electricity, heating, water etc) .There are no other household bills to pay, except of course telephone and broadband, and contents insurance. Three delicious meals (which are also included in the monthly rental) are served in the dining room each day. There is a choice of menu including both meat and vegetarian options. The apartments are cleaned each week and the bed linen and towels are changed. The apartments are very secure and there is a live in Management team that are always on hand. Each apartment is equipped with a pull cord. There is a mini bus to transport the residents to and from the shops etc. Each month there is a calendar of events which include dinner dances, entertainment, visits to places of interest, bridge, Tai Chi, book clubs, lectures etc. The amenities include a library, an activities room and a coffee lounge, where coffee or fresh fruit and home baked snacks are available all day long at no additional charge. There is a media lounge for social viewing, a billiards table and gym equipment are also available. There is also a professional hairdressing salon for the use of residents at an additional charge. With the Braintree complex overlooking the beautiful Essex countryside, Clevedon overlooking the sea and with Eastbourne also on the coast, it is difficult to imagine a more comfortable retirement environment to suit every conceivable need.

Hawthorns RETIREMENT

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Highland Park, Killin, Perthshire, Scotland

A & H Development (Killin) Ltd

Algarve Senior Living

and amenities to suit retirees. For example there will be a Doctor, Nurse and a Pharmacist on hand and there will be a bowling green, bridge club and other entertainment for senior people. The accommodation will be available from September/October 2014. The letting terms will allow full flexibility and the letting periods will include one month, three months, six months, a year or longer by agreement. This is a major advantage as it signals a move away from ownership to rental with the considerable flexibility that that entails. ‘Algarve Senior Living’ have a plan to develop a huge area of some 60 hectares at Silves (Silves Odissey Village) which is located in the central/west area of Portugal. This location has a very good climate all year round. The scheme is presently in its conceptual stage and is planned for development in three years time. When complete the development will have on offer a full range of accommodation for senior living, to include a full care option with a full complement of care and medical staff in support.

McCarthy & Stone With a choice of types of retirement developments that includes Retirement Living and Assisted Living, McCarthy & Stone offer a wide range of award-winning one and two bedroom apartments for sale in over 1000 different locations nationwide. Their Retirement Living developments offer the independence of retaining home ownership while living in an apartment specifically designed for later life as well as greater peace of mind and companionship. Assisted Living developments offer all of this, plus a helping hand through flexible care and support packages that make life that little bit easier. With the wonderful options on offer it is little wonder that today’s retiree can look forward to a quality of life that offers contentment and fulfilment in every respect n RETIREMENT

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Retirement Living - A Grand Choice

This is a long awaited development which is the brainchild of A & H Developments (Killin) Ltd. The location is in a beautiful setting in the village of Killin. The development consists of fourteen 2 bedroom/2bathroom homes that are set in a semi-rural terraced courtyard setting above the River Lochay at the west end of Loch Tay. Some of the external walls of the buildings are clad with re-claimed stone from the local Youth Hostel to sympathetically blend in with other properties in the location. Algarve Senior Living All of the properties have a 10 year NHBC warranty. The construction work commenced in March and the Portugal has repositioned itself as an extremely attractive location for show house will be completed in the autumn. The properties should be very popular with retirees retirement. This is due, in part, to or people approaching retirement as they offer a very the Non –Habitual Resident law attractive downsizing option with a fully managed that allows anyone who has not been resident for the previous five years to maintenance facility. The properties are priced in a range between earn pensions or non - Portuguese £239,500 and £249,500 which is extremely cheap for income, tax free for a period of ten the area, where an average purchase price is in the region years. Inheritance and Wealth is also tax free. of £350,000. With full access to the health The maintenance The opportunities system, great beaches, golf courses company will maintain all the external facilities for quality retirement and food, and one of the lowest costs of living in Western Europe, including the gardens, paving, and the external living are considerable Portugal has earned the accolade of ‘Best country for Retirement’. paintwork of the In building on the government properties, at a nominal fee of circa £500 per annum. The residential requirements are free of any restrictions, led tax advantages ‘Algarve Senior and the properties can either be let or can be fully Living’ are soon to offer quality rental residential, to suit the owners requirements. This offers accommodation that is aimed at the considerable flexibility, for example, a person a few years needs of retirees. The plan short term is to develop off retirement could purchase the property, let it out for a few years and then move in and take full residency a number of attractive villages as retirement accommodation for the on retirement. The properties are on two levels but the space on the active retiree. The pilot scheme will involve ground floor would easily adapt to one level living should this prove necessary. For example there is a very large WC adapting existing buildings that on the ground floor which could easily be converted to are located at the attractive coastal location of ‘Carvoeiro’. There are include shower and wash facilities. The development is located within easy walking two villages one with a country feel and beautiful country views and the distance of the shops and other amenities. Many attractive facilities are available nearby which other with views looking out to include, boating, cycling, walking, fishing and golf which the sea. The accommodation is four star and will include many facilities is within walking distance

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Footloose in Italy by Debra Rixon

Venice grand canal

R

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eaching the Cinque Terre was not difficult - we based ourselves in La Spezia, so took the airport shuttle at Genoa into the city to the train station. I didn’t find the Genoese very smiley; an old woman took violent exception to our suitcases on the airport bus and I never found out why. I couldn’t get a word in edgewise in the torrent of abuse in Italian, and obviously never got my point across that you would expect suitcases on an airport shuttle as that would appear to be its function. The train station was a lofty busy place, and we found our train for La Spezia - one which had

...you get a wonderful overview of the village, clinging precariously to the land, built around an inventively covered ravine. RETIREMENT

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though; I knew this was the easy bit and that it would get progressively harder as we walked through the vineyards and along dry stone walls. We chose the lower coastal route, but there are plenty of other walking paths of varying degrees of difficulty higher up the cliffs, and through the higher terraces. All along the top of the cliffs there are sanctuaries and villages that you can visit, and the National Park green buses also run between them. All of the five villages are picturesque and walking between them was a treat. It was busy everywhere, and the coastal trains were frequent, passing for the most part within the mountains as they plied between the villages and La Spezia and other large towns. The history of the Cinque Terre is interesting and unique, and the National Park is doing a terrific job of maintaining its heritage and promoting it at the same time. I think I liked Vernazza the most because it was the only village with a piazza, which was wonderful at sunset; but Monterosso had the beaches, and is bigger altogether with a virtual aquarium and shops. We interviewed a local family that owned a waterfront restaurant, and I was particularly charmed by Santina, the tiny matriarch. The food was truly excellent and the wine very drinkable, which is why we caught the train back to La Spezia.

s

Footloose in Italy

Trail 5-Terre

a double decker observation carriage and did not object to suitcases. There are glimpses of the coastline along the way, although the journey seemed to take an inordinate amount of time, stopping at every available halt along the line. The following day we took a boat to Porto Venere to have a look round. It’s a lovely town, and with brilliant blue sky, sunshine and crystal clear sea, it isn’t hard to do research. The tall narrow houses were all painted with different faded colour washes and huddled together along the waterfront. It was very busy, boats coming and going the whole time, even in late September, but there was room for everyone. We started filming the next day, under glorious skies. As the boat approaches Rio Maggiore, you get a wonderful overview of the village, clinging precariously to the land, built around an inventively covered ravine. It was busy and colourful and lots of different accents on street level; up above you heard the native Italian amidst the washing lines and open casement windows. The first part of the walk is the Via del Amore, which is easy and paved and takes about 40 minutes to walk around the edge of the land to the next village. It was busy, but there was plenty of room and wheelchairs and baby buggies shared the path with the walking boots and flip-flops. I wasn’t fooled


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We spent a week in the region altogether. Everyone knows Venice. Our train was slowly rattling its way along the causeway from Mestre to Ferrovia, Venice’s train station, and I strained to get a glimpse across the water out of the window. I couldn’t wait to get there, and as we stepped out of the station onto the busy forecourt, I just stood still and stared, bathed in a warm glow of late afternoon sunshine. Venice is truly breathtaking, the most photogenic city in the world, and it’s hard to feel as though you have really taken in the fact of the city: that it is built on wooden piles in a lagoon. Our hotel was an old palazzo - the ceilings and the chandeliers on the first floor were unbelievable. I knew there were quite a lot of streets in Venice because we’d researched our visit beforehand, but I think the fact still surprises you; that you can get around quite a bit of Venice without riding the canals. But who would want to miss them? The vaporetti are fun and fascinating, if a bit crowded and smelly, and to get the feel of the city we took one that travelled a circular route.

Venice is truly breathtaking, the most photogenic city in the world, and it’s hard to feel as though you have really taken in the fact of the city:

Footloose in Italy

Debra Venice Masks

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The main street is busy, but a few steps down a side street or alley and it’s a completely different world. The tourists rarely seem to venture away from the acknowledged sights, but getting lost in these side streets is a real pleasure if you’re not in a hurry. The ghetto was very sobering, and a little unnerving with the watchful police and security men; they definitely did not like our camera, and cared little for the reason for it. We did not linger, which is a pity because it is an amazing place with a fascinating history. The churches are abundant and amazing in Venice; you fear for all that marble dragging the city down into the lagoon. The Jesuiti church has some stunning marble but the weight of it over the centuries RETIREMENT

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has been a real concern. The little Miracoli church is like a jewel casket and houses a picture that is said to perform miracles, tucked away among the alleys and canals. We took an extended gondola ride, guided by Lino, and I quickly lost track of where we were on the map, unlike Dave, who has an uncanny ability to do this in his head. There are times I think he is actually plugged into the planet; he is incapable of getting lost. I was very nervous of this part of the trip - I knew I had to do it but as a non-swimmer and in such a narrow vessel, I really was struggling. I told Lino to save me first if we capsized; Dave can doggy paddle and the camera would have to take its chances. And as luck would have it, our gondola crashed into a motor boat around a blind corner - my personal nightmare coming true. Luckily, it was a glancing blow that the beak of the gondola took from the motorboat and after much gesticulating and shouting, each of us went our separate ways unscathed. It’s moments like these when you understand the purpose of a hip flask. Shame they went out of fashion. The Rialto bridge was beautiful; even more so at dawn when the fishermen are selling their wares in the adjacent Pescheria. The market made up for the early start, the scale of the variety on sale was staggering. I soon gave up trying to identify them and just goggled at the stalls.The fruit and veg market was astonishing in its colours. We had a bit of fun with the gondoliers; no, they were not all as gorgeous as the calendar in our film suggested. The food also was not as good as we had hoped. Neither was the service. The Venetians don’t have to work hard to get tourists, and I’m afraid it shows. We had a really interesting interview with a mask maker in Dorsoduro, which we reached via the Accademia bridge. I also enjoyed the walk away from San Marco’s Piazza down to the Arsenale. You get a really wonderful view of St. George’s church across the water and it’s not very crowded, although the bistros and cafes still managed to charge the tourist rates. San Marco Piazza was terrific, but the queue to go up the Campanile was very long. I enjoyed the mummers with their constant tremours to make

the bells on their headdress jingle, and there are plenty of market stalls selling the usual souvenirs along the quayside. I really enjoyed dusk in Venice - suddenly all the day trippers have disappeared and the staying guests have returned to their accommodation. The squares belong to the Venetians again, and come alive with captive little dogs from gardenless apartments; children’s toys and their owners, watched over by black garbed grandmothers who gather and chat as the residents return from their work across the water in Mestre. It’s a gentle time to be observing, and the light is particularly soft. As night falls, the shop windows light up, and I think it’s one of life’s little pleasures to be window shopping in a foreign city. We took a trip across the lagoon to Murano, and spent a very interesting Venice gondola afternoon watching glass blowing and chatting with a glass salesman who seemed to think I could not possibly leave Venice without half his shop in my luggage. It was a pleasant place to wander through in the warm sunshine, although it does have the rather left-over look of a suburb of the great city. The next day we took the afternoon off from filming and took a boat to the Lido. It was closed and it pelted with rain. Venice is so gorgeous; it’s such a sumptuous city. I think of velvets, and rich brocades; masked balls and palazzos when I think of Venice. One visit is not enough n

WIN

We have 5 copies of Footloose in Italy on DVD to giveaway. For a chance to win a copy send in your details quoting ref.FIT to: Amra Media Solutions, 46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, Bucks, HP22 5ES. Closing date 1st August 2014


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Home to one of theaworld’s foremost collections of Be amazed by fascinating collection ofautomatic instruments including the ‘Mighty Wurlitzer’. self-playing musical instruments. See and hear wonderful inventions, including musical boxes, Guided tours for groups available all year orchestrions and self-playing pianos and violins.

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Footloose in Italy

Debra and David flew to Genoa for their trip, but Pisa is also a good airport. They based themselves in La Spezia which is more commercial than tourist, but with hotel rates to match, and the train and boat service are very good to the five lands. There are few hotels in the five villages themselves. They took the train to Venice. Details of their walks can be found on the Italy page of their website. After David took early retirement from the BBC, they have focussed on their own productions, and for ten years have been renowned for their walking films in Europe. For information on all the Footloose films, take a look at www.footloose. tv or watch previews of the walks on Youtube.

Riverview Tea Room and gift shop. Special events Christmas Concerts, Open Tues –Sun,include 11am-5.30pm. Tea Dances with Wurlitzer and Silent Films. Full disabled access and parking. Minutes from Kew Bridge Rail, free parking from Kew Bridge, easy access to M4 & M3 &Minutes full disabled access.

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COMPETITIONS

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Win 1 of 3 pairs of tickets for The Play That Goes Wrong!

The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society are putting on a 1920s murder mystery, but as the title suggests, everything that can go wrong… does! The accidentprone thespians battle against all odds to make it through to their final curtain call, with hilarious consequences! The Play That Goes Wrong is guaranteed to leave you aching with laughter! ***** “I FEARED I WAS GOING TO HYPERVENTILATE” Daily Mail **** “RIDICULOUSLY FUNNY” The Times **** “GENUINELY HILARIOUS” The Daily Telegraph The Duchess Theatre 3-5 Catherine Street, London WC2B 5LA Box Office: 0844 482 9672 www.theplaythatgoeswrong.com 5 September 2014 – 1 February 2015 Terms and conditions apply. Prize is valid WednesdaySunday until 19 October 2014. Subject to availability. Prize is as stated and cannot be transferred or exchanged. No cash alternative will be offered. For your chance to win 1 of 3 pairs of tickets to see The Play That Goes Wrong! Send in your details, quoting ref. PTGW. Closing date: 1 August 2014

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Win a Residental Weekend Course at Dillington House, Somerset

Retirement Today is exhibiting at the 50 Plus Show at London Olympia on 10-12 July 2014, Britain’s biggest exhibition for the active over-50s. Just visit our stand at the show and enter our competition for a chance to Win a place on a residential weekend course at one of Somerset’s most beautiful houses. The prize includes tuition, 2 nights’ en-suite accommodation, full board and refreshments for the duration of the course. Dillington House is one of the finest houses in Somerset, offering a very special combination of first-class facilities in a beautiful and peaceful setting. Dating back to the 16th century, it was later the home of Lord North, Prime Minister during the reign of George III. The house underwent an architectural transformation in the early 19th century when much of it was re-modelled in the Gothic style. January 2009 saw the opening of a spectacular contemporary building - The Hyde - providing additional accommodation and teaching space whilst adding to the historic narrative. There is a range of comfortable en-suite accommodation, from the traditional to contemporary, including 16 which are fully accessible. Catering for all dietary needs, Dillington uses the finest locally sourced and supplied ingredients in their superb, freshly cooked meals. They have a reputation for serving high quality three course lunches and evening meals, full English buffet style breakfasts and delicious homemade cakes. Dillington offers a very special combination of first-class facilities, a peaceful and beautiful setting, and an inspirational environment in which to unleash your creativity. For details of all of Dillington’s courses and events visit www.dillington.com We look forward to seeing you at the show.

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Whether you’re passionate about walking, gardening or outdoor exercise, it is important to live the life you want and keep your body feeling active. Specially designed by experts, Regenovex is the latest generation of products of its kind and provides a technically advanced and unique formulation. It contains Bionovex, a patented marine oil, which is derived from Green Lipped Mussels sourced exclusively from the clean, clear fresh waters of New Zealand, containing ETA (eicosatetraenoic acid), an Omega-3 fatty acid. It also contains Hyaluronic Acid, which is a key component of the synovial fluid. The role of synovial fluid is to lubricate and cushion. Both are key ingredients derived from natural sources. Regenovex is available in two convenient and easy to use formats: one a day, easy to swallow gelatine free Regenovex Capsules* and a Regenovex Gel. To celebrate being active, we are giving five lucky readers the chance to win a three month supply to Regenovex. For a chance to win send in your details, quoting ref. RX For more information, please visit www.regenovex.co.uk

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Out&About... Victoria and Albert Museum, London

LONDON ART WEEK

©

4-11 July

The Glamour of Italian Fashion

Until 27 July V&A, London A glamorous , comprehensive look at Italian Fashion from the end of the Second World War to the present day. The exhibition examines Italy’s dramatic transition from post-war ruins to the luxury paraded in the landmark ‘Sala Bianca’ catwalk shows held in Florence in the 1950s, which propelled Italian fashion onto the world stage. With 100 ensembles and accessories by leading Italian fashion houses such as Gucci, Giorgio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana and Versace, this major exhibition includes both womens and menswear to highlight the exceptional quality of techniques, materials and expertise for which Italy has become renowned. Tel. 020 7942 2000 www.vam.ac.uk

Enduring War:

London Art Week (LAW) is the platform that unites Master Drawings and Sculpture Week and Master Paintings Week. This collaboration brings together some fifty specialist dealers across the fine art disciplines and three major London auction houses. It illustrates the extraordinary range and quality of fine art from the 15th to 20th centuries available on the market. During LAW, special exhibitions and other events will be staged by all the participants. For further details visit www.londonartweek.co.uk

Grief, Grit and Humour

Out & About

19 June – 12 October British Library

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In honour of the First World War Centenary, this exhibition at the British Library looks at how people coped with life during the war, from moments of patriotic fervour to periods of anxious inactivity, as well as shock and despair. The exhibition consists of posters, poetry, books and pamphlets from the period, with individual experiences of the conflict such as letters from Indian soldiers on the Western Front, schoolboys’ descriptions of Zeppelin raids over London and examples of black humour expressed in trench journals. Tel. 0843 208 1144 www.bl.uk RETIREMENT

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A woman spinning, a girl, two farmers and a fisherman… Oil on canvas, 128 x 101cm BNB Art Consulting Ltd

Rascal Shadows – A House Transformed: Jan Dunning

Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire Inspired by the stories of children evacuated at Waddesdon during the Second World War, photographic artist and educator Jan Dunning has created an alternative, magical view of Waddesdon with a playful series of images and installations running throughout the house. Other exhibitions this year include rarely seen drawings, engravings, and books to mark the centenary of the First World War. Plus, fine examples of lace from the 17th century can be seen around the house, together with new, contemporary works from lace-makers and artists, responding to the historic collection. For further information on all events visit www.waddesdon.org.uk or tel 01296 653226.

Glad All over: remembering 1964 Until 7 December

This year’s very special exhibition at the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection will be taking a nostalgic look back to 1964. Conceived by the curator of the museum, Michael Tambini, it aims to evoke the atmosphere in Britain as the mood of the Sixties took hold. The exhibition has been created around three vehicles from the Museum’s collection not normally on display: a 1964 Ford Zephyr, alongside two Royal Enfield motorcycles from the year, as well as photos, posters and songs from the iconic era. Alongside the exhibition, the main collections at the Museum offer a fascinating journey through the 20th Century, overflowing with vintage vehicles, hundreds of original enamel signs and an intriguing collection of motoring curiosities. It’s also home to TV’s superhero car Brum, whose adventures start and end at the museum, and can now be found there every day! The wonderful toy collection also represents the Museum’s passion for travel. From old favourites from year’s gone past to more modern items, you will be enchanted by the great display of toys and games Tel: 01451 821255 www.cotswoldmotoringmuseum.co.uk


Short Courses 2014 Central Saint Martins

Animation Architecture Bespoke training Business skills Ceramics Courses for under 19s Creative process Daytimes Digital design Digital film and video Dual city Drawing Evenings Fashion Fine art Graphic design Interior design Jewellery Journalism Online learning Painting Performance Photography Portfolio preparation Printmaking Product design Saturdays Sculpture Summer school Textiles Theatre design Weekends Writing

www.arts.ac.uk /csm/shortcourses Short Course Office, Central Saint Martins, Granary Building, 1 Granary Square, King’s Cross, London N1C 4AA, UK. Email: shortcourse@csm.arts.ac.uk Sign up for special offers and updates by email: www.arts.ac.uk/csm/subscribe. Telephone enquiries and Customer service: 020 7514 7015 (From overseas dial +44 20 7514 7015)

CSM-ARTSCOM-FP-RT-Summer2014.indd 1

RETIREMENT 14/05/2014today 18:03

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UPDATE TAX-FREE LIVING IN EUROPE Portugal has become Europe’s most recent tax-free nation. New residents can benefit from zero inheritance, wealth, pension and income tax in a country renowned for its excellent climate, friendly people, and great lifestyle. The Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) law allows anyone who has not been a resident in the for the previous five years to earn pensions or non-Portuguese income tax-free, for a period of ten years. The NHR law is an excellent solution for pensioners and liberal professionals such as consultants, company directors, doctors, dentists, architects, engineers, and anyone promoting active investment in the country. In addition to tax-free living, access to the state health system and quality private health, great beaches, golf courses and food, and one of the lowest costs of living in Western Europe, have earned Portugal the accolade of “Best country for retirement”. Residents can purchase competitively priced real estate. In autumn of 2014 the Algarve also sees the launch of its first senior villages allowing permanent and winter stays. Operated on a rental basis with medical, F&B and varied activities, the solution caters for those looking to try-beforethey-move or simply to enjoy winter stays in their destination of choice. For further information tel.UK office: 0208 144 7558

Pension Insurance Corporation Event Pension Insurance Corporation (PIC) was delighted to welcome more than 650 of its policyholders and their guests to a central London hotel at the end of May for a chance to spend the day getting to know the people responsible for paying their pension. This is the largest event the company has put on for its policyholders to date. PIC has over 50,000 individual policyholders, all former members of Defined Benefit pension schemes, and throughout the course of a year they are invited to a range of events held by the company. These events provide the opportunity for PIC’s policyholders to meet with and question senior management from the company about the security of their pension benefits – no hiding behind websites and call centres here! John Coomber, PIC’s CEO, opened the speaker line-up at this event, with star speaker, the explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes, providing an inspirational concluding speech. Sir Ran, himself a pensioner, showed the pensioners in attendance that their boundaries are much wider than they perhaps think. Freelance journalist Paul Lewis was also very popular providing practical insights into financial matters. Many of the attendees enjoy these events as they give an opportunity to reconnect with former colleagues and reminisce about days gone by. They help to create a community, building on the values formerly intrinsic to the defined benefit pension system. We are starting to see policyholders meet up outside of these events and form their own, new social groups. This is really heartening and whilst this wasn’t one of the aims of the events when we put them on, it is great to see.

UV READER launches its summer 2014 range of Sun Readers UVREADER announces its 2014 range of stylish Sun Readers; they come equipped with UV400 protection, an absolute essential for sun-protection reading glasses. With summer just a few short weeks’ away, you can now get ready to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays – and be able to read your book by the pool or on the beach or peruse the bar menu in style and in safety. The UVREADER’S block all light rays with wavelengths of up to 400 nanometres, covering all UVA and UVB rays. Young or old, male or female, UVREADER has a style for you. The range comes in +1.00 -+3.50 strength. The UVREADER range has been designed with quality in mind. They are both stylish and affordable, from just £7.99 a pair and in 32 frame styles, with more to come. Their range includes “Aviator” and “Wayfarer” style glasses. If you want a stylish and practical pair of reading glasses to use in the sun, then UV READER Sun Readers are what you are looking for; no longer do you need to wear your normal reading glasses and a pair of sunglasses on top! The UVREADER range also comes in a wide range of Reading Glasses, Sunglasses and accessories.

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Visit Stoke-on-Trent Enjoy the Complete Ceramics Experience Discover | Learn | Try | Buy

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The City of Stoke-on-Trent boasts the world renowned brands of Wedgwood, Portmeirion, Churchill and Aynsley. Take the Ceramics Trail and discover on a factory tour Emma Bridgewater, Wedgwood and Moorcroft. Visit the new visitor centre at Middleport Pottery, home of Burleigh. Try and be a master potter for the day and then buy your own in over 20 pottery factory shops.

Learn about the spectacular Staffordshire Hoard at the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery. Stroll around the Italian gardens at the Trentham Estate, discover the world at Biddulph Grange and Dorothy Clive gardens.

Go to www.visitstoke.co.uk/retirement to access your special offers For your FREE information pack telephone Stoke-on-Trent Tourist Information Centre on 01782 236000 or www.visitstoke.co.uk/retirement

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Facebook.com/visitstoke Enjoy the complete ceramics experience on the Ceramics Trail. Discover, Learn, Try and Buy and receive a free gift. See www.ceramicstrail.co.uk for details. RETIREMENT

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Meet

A special gift for animals Smoochie Smoochie came to Wood Green when his owners were no longer able to care for him. Thankfully, in just a few weeks we were able to find him a new loving, forever home where he is now thriving!

Every year almost 5,500 animals need our help. Some are found hungry, abandoned and homeless, some have been mistreated, starved and abused; others are given to us when they can no longer be looked after. We know how lucky we are to have such wonderful supporters and it’s all thanks to the continued generosity of caring individuals like you. Donations and gifts left in Wills have enabled Wood Green, The Animals Charity to set national standards in animal welfare, taking in animals of all shapes and sizes. As well as cats and dogs, we continue to find loving new homes for chickens, rabbits, mice, guinea pigs, goats, sheep, ferrets and many more. We simply couldn’t continue to do this without your help.

Yes! I’d like to help THANK OR give £3 by feed unwanted and YOU texting KITTEN abandoned pets to 70300, or like Smoochie. £3 for 1 pet £21 for 7 pets

£12 for 4 pets Other

Name

Texts charged at £3 plus your standard network rate. Wood Green, The Animals Charity will receive 100% of your donation. Registered Charity No. 298348 Wood Green, The Animals Charity is the Registered Trademark of Wood Green Animal Shelters

0614PRRETT

Address

calling our donation hotline on 0844 875 0150

Postcode Please send cheques/postal orders/CAF charity vouchers payable to ‘Wood Green, The Animals Charity’ with this coupon to: Wood Green, The Animals Charity, Freepost PE1366, London Road, Godmanchester, Cambridgeshire PE29 2BR.

Please send me a FREE legacy information pack providing information on how to leave a gift in my Will to Wood Green, The Animals Charity.

The Animals Charity Registered Charity No. 298348.

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Rehoming a pet for a fulfilled Retirement By Frank Anslow

C

Cambridgeshire. Weighing a skeletal 14g the Wood Green team gave her lots of loving care, gentle exercise and a special diet eventually enabling her to reach her ideal body weight of 20kgs. Happily, Gracie has now found a loving new home with Alison Barker. Alison recalls, “Gracie has settled in well and likes nothing better than to bask in the sun in the lounge. She is a mischievous dog and is full of fun. Thank you Wood Green” Finding new homes for domestic

Rehoming a Pet for a fulfilled Retirement

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ompanionship, better and more regular exercise, making new friends, reduced feelings of loneliness and even help at the time of a crisis, are all benefits of owning a pet in retirement. A very rewarding and fulfilling way of owning a pet is to rehome a domestic animal who perhaps through no fault of their own have fallen upon unfortunate times for one reason or another. In this way the benefits are two fold and a warm and happy relationship can develop. Research by ‘Cats Protection’ of the over 55’s has shown that 82% of respondents said their cat helped them to reduce stress and relax more, 62% said their cat helped to reduce feelings of loneliness and 50% said their cat helped them in a time of crisis. Of course these statistics are likely to apply equally to dogs and other domestic animals. With dogs, of course, there is the added benefit of taking regular exercise when walking the dog, and many retirees make new friends on dog walks. The benefits are all important for any retiree, but are of particular importance for people living alone. A very positive example of rehoming a pet is that of Annie the Jack Russell who arrived at the rescue and rehoming charity National

Animal Welfare Trusts Hertfordshire Centre, with an injury to her cheek and teeth. She was quickly rehomed as the loving companion to 83 year-old June Winder. June had previously rehomed Ben, a terrier cross from the Trust, he had recently died after 14 happy years. Having been badly affected by the loss, June was recommended to rehome another dog by her doctor and family, who fully supported her wishes. June and Annie go for a walk every day and when they’re at home, the dog is rarely far from her owner’s lap. The Wood Green Animal Charity helps 5500 abandoned and homeless animals every year. An example of their care is recalled in the case of Gracie a three year old Lurcher. Gracie was lucky to be alive after being found in an emaciated state in RETIREMENT

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Forgotten someone? Our Pet Care Card is our promise. We’ll give your treasured companion a safe and happy future after you’ve gone. Finding a home filled with as much love and care as your own. Apply today for peace of mind. Pet Care Card Registered Charity No: 1090499 National Animal Welfare Trust Tyler’s Way Watford Bypass Watford, Herts WD25 8WT

020 8950 0177

Call 020 8950 0177 or visit www.nawt.org.uk 28

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Somerset reports that around 25-30% of their rehoming is to retirees. This remarkably high figure is probably due to retirees having more time available. However, despite this very good uptake in rehoming, more owners are desperately required. Jackie Nichols a representative of Ferne Animal Sanctuary has this to say about the rehoming of older animals ‘Older animals are more difficult to rehome. Sometimes people who have been retired quite a while take them on because they like to give the animal a nice end to their life, making a lovely retirement for both of them’. Mandy Jones Head of rehoming at Blue Cross Animal Charity also commented on older animals and more difficult animals to rehome ‘Older animals are often harder for us to rehome because some prospective owners don’t always realise that a ‘middle-aged’ pet still loves to play and has many years and lots of love still to give. We also find that certain coloured pets stay with us for longer which is very sad. Brindle and black dogs tend to get overlooked, as do black and black and white cats’. ‘Cats Protection’ makes a similar point in encouraging retirees to consider rehoming a black cat, saying Around half of the cats in the charity’s care are black or black or white and, on average, each of these cats wait around a week longer to find a new home. ‘Cats Protection’ finds that they tend to be overlooked in favour of the brighter coloured tabbies and gingers that catch the eye.The charity also finds that older cats aged 12 or above are often overlooked in favour of young cats and kittens. However, an older cat can make a wonderful pet owing to their more settled natures, whilst improvements in veterinary care mean many older cats survive into their late teens or early 20s in remarkably good health. A troublesome issue for many pet owners is, who would look after the pet after they die.

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Rehoming a Pet for a fulfilled Retirement

animals is a major problem as there are thousands of animals made homeless every year. The excellent animal charity organisations do a great job in trying to tackle this problem but despite their considerable efforts an overwhelming number of animals remain homeless. For example ‘Cats Protection’ is full to bursting looking after 6,200 unwanted cats. The Blue Cross Animal Charity also takes in thousands of homeless and unwanted animals every year. To address the problem of homeless animals they engage volunteers as foster carers to look after and care for homeless animals in their own homes. Another new initiative is for pets to remain in their existing homes whenever they can until new homes are found for them. All the usual Vet checks and behavioural assessments take place, but the pet goes from one home to another without having to spend time in kennels. Mr Rob Young who is the head of Dog Rehoming at Battersea Dogs and Cats home says ‘Retired people can give wonderful homes to rescue dogs and cats. Owning a pet once you’ve retired can be a great way of keeping a daily routine, getting out of the house for exercise or to socialise with other pet owners, and having a companion around the house. Equally, it can be extremely beneficial for more nervous animals or older pets to have owners that spend more time in the house during the day. If you are thinking of getting a new pet after retirement, Battersea would always advise visiting a rescue centre to find the right match for you. A kitten or puppy requires lots of work and can take a lot of time to train, whereas an older cat or dog for example may be better for people who still lead busy lives. At Battersea we care for more than 9,000 animals every year, and we are always running close to full capacity, with strays and abandoned dogs and cats arriving at our gates every day’. The Ferne Animal Sanctuary based in

This is such a worry to older people in particular, that research by National Animal Welfare Trust has shown that up to half of over 65s and nearly two thirds of over 75s are put off taking on a pet because they are worried it might outlive them.This is a sad fact when you consider that this group of survey respondents, were also the most likely to say a pet would help avoid loneliness. Many animal rescue charities commit to taking back a pet throughout its life if for some reason they are again made homeless in unfortunate circumstances. This is most commendable and it gives a reassurance to older people that their pet will always be looked after. Some retired people are put off rehoming a pet because of the added financial burden associated with the pets upkeep and vet bills. There are however many schemes available to help in this respect. For example • Blue Cross provides veterinary care for owners who are on means tested credit, including pension credit. To benefit the pet owners must live close to one of their animal hospitals or pet care clinics • Both Cats Protection and Blue Cross have means tested neutering schemes On average a medium sized dog can be fed on dry food for £5 per week. A cat would cost about the same. It is also important to keep up to date with regular inoculations. All of the animal charities mentioned in this article are well established and have impeccable reputations.The pets are rehomed with new owners without discrimination against age, location or lifestyle.The needs and background of each animal are considered and are matched to the home and potential owner they would be best suited to. A number of the animal charities arrange follow up visits once the animal is rehomed. For example Ferne Animal Sanctuary follows up once in the first two months, then again the following year, and are always on hand for any problems that may occur. There can be no doubt that the rehoming of an animal is a considerable commitment and very careful consideration is required before taking on a new pet. However, it can also be a most rewarding and worthwhile experience which can enhance the enjoyment of retirement for many years. The animal charity’s do a most wonderful job in caring for homeless animals, thanks also to the many supporting volunteers.The generosity of the public in making donations and fundraising is also extremely important as without this help these organisations would simply not exist n

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Have you left anyone out of your Will? We’ve been dedicated to the health and happiness of pets since 1897. Abandoned or unwanted, ill or injured, we do what’s needed to give every pet a healthy life in a happy home. We’re a charity, so the more help you give us, the more help we can give pets.

A gift in your Will can help secure the future for thousands of pets. If you need us, we can also be there for your special friend.

Return the coupon or write to the address below to receive our free advice and information pack on Will writing.

Please send me your FREE advice & information pack on making or amending a Will and leaving a gift to Blue Cross. Name

(Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms/Other)

Address

Postcode Telephone No. Send to: Stacey Calladine, Blue Cross, Freepost OF224, Room L608, Shilton Road, Burford, Oxon OX18 4BR

If pets have a place in your heart, please find a place for them in your Will.

Or please call 0300 777 1757 and quote L608 Email: legacy@bluecross.org.uk

www.bluecross.org.uk

Blue Cross is a charity registered in England and Wales (224392) and in Scotland (SC040154).

17015_RetirementToday_185x135_L608.indd 1

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ANIMALS IN NEED OF A HOME

Monty

Flash

Baghera

Lucky

A12-year-old female cat looking for a quiet home, who enjoys playing and is surprisingly fast when she wants to be! Ideally she would like a cat flap in her new home so that she come and go as she pleases, but if there is someone at home she is equally happy to be let out when she feels like exploring. She would prefer to be the only pet in the home.

DSH, approx. 2 years old, male.

Domestic shorthair,11 years

A friendly cat - a real character!

Lucky is incredibly beautiful with whiskers to die for. Likes to play with toys and to go outside but only on warm sunny days. She is looking for a companion who knows how to rub a girl’s tummy and she will reward them accordingly. If you are in need of an elegant companion, look no further. Tel. 0844 248 8181 or visit www.woodgreen.org.uk

Came in as a stray so no background history. Would like to be the only cat in the home. Would make a brilliant pet for the right owner, if there are any children it would best if they were teenagers as he can be a little boisterous. Will live happily with a calm dog and is litter trained. www.ferneanimalsanctuary.org

A 9 year, 1 month old mongrel. He is such a fun and easy going boy, who loves to meet and greet new people. Looking for an active family he can have lots of fun with. Don’t be fooled by his age – he loves toys and he is very sprightly and enjoys a game. Monty will make a great companion for fans of terriers! London; Reference: 298252. www.battersea.org.uk

www.bluecross.org.uk

A 6-old fox terrier with bags of character who loves to go exploring and playing games. Best suited in a home as the only pet, but he does like meeting other dogs when he’s out and about. He would be happy living with older children who would be like to get involved with their training and looking after them. www.bluecross.org.uk

Winnie (Somerset) A sweet natured 7 year old girl, Winnie has been at NAWT for over a year. She enjoys fuss and attention and would be best suited to a quiet adult only home. Winnie doesn’t like being around other cats and dogs and finds life in a cattery stressful, so would ideally be the only pet in the home. Visit www.nawt.org.uk

Dillon

Buddy

English Springer Spaniel, 7 years old, male.

A 5-year old Terrier. Can possibly live with another dog but no cats, any children need to be over 14.He has made amazing progress with his condition and training since arriving at Wood Green and is now looking for an experienced, training minded home to ensure the rest of his recovery is in a stable, understanding and nurturing environment. Full and in depth details available and essential for any potential new home. Tel. 0844 248 8181 or visit www.woodgreen.org.uk

Can be nervous at first, but very friendly and affectionate once he knows you. Looking for a home with experienced owners who have plenty of time to give him the attention and exercise needed. Any children in the home would have to be teenagers. Fine with other dogs but will chase cats, Housetrained, not destructive, travels well and I loves to chase a ball. www.ferneanimalsanctuary.org

Just over 6 years old, female German Shepherd. A golden oldie, looking for new owners who can offer her a retirement home. Loves tennis balls and squeaky toys. She is finding kennel life quite stressful and can be a little sensitive, so may take time to settle into her new home. She is looking for loving new owners who will give her the time and space she needs to settle and become the loving companion we have seen her be. London; Reference: 296903. www.battersea.org.uk

Buster (Berkshire)

Tom Tom

Ringo

Very happy, friendly 14 year old Staffie who loves a fuss and gets on well with other dogs. Despite his age he still loves a good walk and playing with toys. Could be homed with another dog or a dog savvy cat. Buster would be best suited to a home with older children because of his age, but younger visiting children would be fine as long as they don’t wear him out too much! Visit www.nawt.org.uk

A beautiful girl aged 9. She would love to be the only pet in a quiet home. If you have the time and love then she has the potential to become a loyal companion.

A six year old male who loves being stroked and made a fuss of. He is very placid so would respond well to an owner who has lots of time to spend with him to help build his confidence. His gorgeous coat needs regular grooming, but he does not mind this.

If you live in Surrey and could offer Tom Tom or Ringo a home, then please ring 01483 721700 or email wokingcatsprotection@gmail.com. Cats Protection’s national Helpline on 03000 12 12 12 Visit www.cats.org.uk RETIREMENT

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Animals in need of a home

Bobby

Star

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PERFECT STAY

In this issue we take a look at how Brittany Ferries are ensuring that the moment you board one of their ships this is when your holiday starts.

O Perfect stay

ver the years I have taken many trips to France, both business and pleasure. One of the most tedious aspects has always been the monotonous journey to my destination, from the port of Calais. Recently I took a 5 day trip to Limoges travelling with Brittany Ferries on their Portsmouth to St Malo crossing. The whole journey from the minute I arrived on board met every expectation of modern day luxury cruising. The whole ethos of the company is to provide the modern traveller with everything they might require to make their journey relaxing and entertaining. The ships have formal and informal dining, in house entertainment, a cinema with the latest film releases, making the experience a total joy.

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For the Club Voyage travel club: www.brittanyferries.com/ clubvoyage For more information visit www.brittanyferries.com/ letyourproperty RETIREMENT

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Best of all, on arriving early morning in St Malo we were able to meander through the French countryside, passing vineyards, quaint villages, stopping for lunch at a local restaurant, and with virtually very little motorway on route our journey was totally toll free. Seven hours later we arrived at our destination relaxed and excited to explore the city having vowed to make this our preferred way of travel for future French trips. Ideal for overseas property owners and regular travellers, Brittany Ferries’ Club Voyage Travel Club offers generous savings of up to 30% on crossings from the UK to France and Spain. Other benefits include, but

are not limited to, 10% reduction on meals and wine in our on-board restaurants, up to 10% discount for friends and family and free or half price day cabins on some crossings. Brittany Ferries have just launched a new no-frills service called Brittany Ferries économie which will operate from Portsmouth to both Santander and Le Havre. The service is ideal for those who wish to travel to France or Spain at a very reasonable fare without either the cruisestyle experience they provide on their other ships or the speed afforded by Normandie Express. As with all their ferries the service is operated by Brittany Ferries’ bilingual French crew and officers.


Every year thousands of people put their faith and trust in Cats Protection when looking for a new addition to the family. Behind each volunteer and member of staff is a wealth of experience and expertise which means when you adopt one of our cats, you can feel safe in the knowledge that he has been given the best possible care. When he leaves Cats Protection, your cat will have been treated to a top-to-tail medical. This means he will have been: • Fully examined by a veterinary surgeon • Vaccinated at least once against flu and enteritis • Treated against fleas, roundworm and tapeworm • Neutered if old enough • Microchipped

All he needs now is a loving home to make his dreams come true – over to you!

Find a Cats Protection cat looking for a home in your area. Simply scan the QR code with your smart-phone to use our new find-a-cat search tool, or get in touch on the details below.

T: 03000 12 12 12 E: helpline@cats.org.uk W: www.cats.org.uk Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) and SC037711 (Scotland)

We also provide four weeks’ free insurance (terms and conditions apply) giving invaluable peace of mind and reassurance as you and your cat embark upon this lifelong friendship. RETIREMENT

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A Passion by Anthony Wills

Kailani is the Award Winning luxury wide beam Hotel Boat cruising Southern England’s waterways. Created to fulfil the growing needs of discerning travellers seeking peace and relaxation whilst cruising first class, Kailani provides guests with spacious bedrooms, private en-suite bathrooms and a feeling of luxury with high quality workmanship, fittings, bedding and linens. Not to mention our delicious catering !

Hastings.The remains after the disastrous fire of 2008 (Tim Phillips)

Choose one of our 3 to 6 night breaks on the Grand Union or Kennet & Avon Canal or the magnificent River Thames.

Telephone number +44 (0) 7447 051558 www.hotelboatkailani.com

London Waterbus Trips

] LITTLE VENICE ] LONDON ZOO ] CAMDEN LOCK

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

A Passion for Piers

Tel: 020 7482 2550 www.londonwaterbus.com

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See page 32 for your chance to save money and get Retirement Today delivered to your door

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Cliff top view of Mumbles pier with the linked lifeboat station to the left (English Heritage)

easide piers have been an iconic part of the UK’s coastal heritage for 200 years and continue to enthral and entertain visitors to resorts up and down the land. Some may feel that they have had their day, but the increase in so-called “staycationing” has demonstrated a continuing demand for the simple experience of “walking over the waves” as an essential part of the family seaside visit. You can still go angling on them, catch a steamer, take in a show, feast on fish ‘n’ chips, play the slot machines, experience the thrill of fairground rides or simply relax in a deckchair and watch the world go by.You can even get married on some of them! This year sees the anniversary of the opening of the first pier, at Ryde on the Isle of Wight, in 1814. Ryde is the main point of arrival for visitors from the mainland and before the pier was constructed they had to be conveyed from the steamers by small boats which got stuck in the mud at low tide, meaning the passengers either had to wade across the foreshore or pay for a piggyback ride on a porter’s shoulders! Piers sprang up all around the coast, usually as a result of a railway reaching a resort. Around 100 were built between 1860 and 1905 but many have disappeared through fire, storms, collisions or simple lack of maintenance. With the availability of heritage lottery and other public funding the outlook is now much brighter. Much of the credit is due to the National Piers Society, which for the past 35 years has campaigned for their preservation and continued enjoyment.


for Piers

Hastings. View of the pier from c1905. Note the oriental styling implemented throughout. (Richard T Riding Collection)

Entrance to Mumbles Pier, taken before new pier had work (Tim Phillips)

Paignton. Looking along the East side of the pier (Tim Phillips)

Paignton. Pier head pavilion fire of June 1919 (Richard T Riding Collection)

A Passion for Piers

British Seaside Piers by Anthony Wills and Tim Phillips (English Heritage, ÂŁ25)

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CHANGE YOUR LIFE

JOIN HEART MATTERS FOR FREE A free support service to inspire you to have a heart-healthy lifestyle.

Join us at bhf.org.uk/heartmatters Call 0300 330 3300*

Be inspired Read stories & articles to keep healthy

Be informed Learn about our life-saving work

Measure up Check you’re a healthy shape

Good food for you Try our heart-healthy recipes

*Calls cost similar to 01 or 02 numbers. Lines are open 9am–5pm, Monday to Friday. © British Heart Foundation 2014, registered charity in England and Wales (225971) and in Scotland (SC039426).

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Set realistic goals Set realistic, achievable goals for each week gradually increasing the distance or time spent on your activity. Think about when you’re going to exercise and mark it in your diary or calendar. Many people who are new to exercise try to do too much, too soon, and become injured or discouraged, so take it easy. Don’t forget to start your activity slowly and build up gradually and cool down at the end of your routine. And remember – a setback is not a defeat, so if you have a bad week, pick yourself up and keep going.

Have something to aim for Training for an event is a great way to stick to your exercise goals – especially if you’re raising money for a good cause. How soon you’ll be ready for your first event depends on your fitness and what you’re aiming for. Most beginners can work up to running 5km in eight or nine weeks, and if you have ambitions to run further, training for a half marathon can be completed in three to six months. Allow about 12 to 18 weeks to train for a 50-mile bike ride.

Help from your hero Graham Bowley, 70, a retired printer from Ilkeston, Derbyshire, started exercising for the first time after having a heart attack in 2011.

t’s never too late to make a fresh start, and that applies to being active too. So why not set yourself a challenge this year and do something you can be proud of, writes Sarah Brealey of Heart Matters, the free magazine from the British Heart Foundation (BHF). Regular physical activity can help to keep your heart healthy and boost mental wellbeing. It also reduces your risk of heart and circulatory disease and many other conditions, such as diabetes and certain cancers. Exercise is also a great way to keep your weight in check, especially if combined with a healthy diet.

For more inspiring stories, the latest research and tips for keeping healthy join Heart Matters - BHF’s free support service offering information that encourages a heart-healthy lifestyle, whether you or someone close to you has a heart condition or a risk factor such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure n

Get started If you have health problems or it’s been a while since you’ve done any exercise, check with your GP before starting a new exercise regime. For many of us, both time and money are short, but don’t worry – some of the most popular physical activities can be easily worked into your daily routine and require also no equipment. For walking, all you need is comfortable footwear, although waterproof clothing is useful. For running, a decent pair of trainers is a wise investment, if cycling takes your fancy, check your bike over before you hit the road, or take it to a bike shop for a service.

From Zero to Hero

I

From Zero to Hero

‘Exercise and eating healthily has made a big difference – I feel much better these days. It took a heart attack for me to change – my advice is don’t wait until you have one.

Join Heart Matters for free at bhf.org.uk/heartmatters or by calling 0300 330 3300* (Call cost similar to 01 or 02 numbers. Lines are open 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday). RETIREMENT

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ENGLISH ECCENTRIC

A celebration of imaginative, intriguing and stylish interiors The drawing room has an opulent, high Victorian feel, thanks to the carved and gilded chairs with velvet upholstery, the glass domes, and the stuffed owl and fan-tailed chicken on the mantelpiece. However it is unlikely that any selfrespecting Victorian would have utilized a giant bellows as a coffee table, let alone placed a horse’s skull on it.

English eccentric

An extract from English Eccentric by Ros Byam Shaw, photography by Jan Baldwin, published by Ryland Peters & Small

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READER

OFFER

English Eccentric is available to our readers for the special price of £22 including postage & packaging (rrp£30) by telephoning Macmillan Direct on 01256 302 699 and quoting the reference GLR 9NO. RETIREMENT

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Animal Magic Presiding over the fur, feathers and horns, the barking, purring and chirruping, are model artist and shop owner Liddie Holt Harrison and her handsome hairdresser husband Howard, who works at Stannard and Slingsby on Kensington High Street. Both seem far too cosmopolitan for their rural surroundings. Perched on the kitchen counter, all freckled tan, tousled hair and long limbs, Liddie describes how they found themselves here, in a Regency house with a large garden, and not a pavement or street light to be seen. Liddie started modelling in the early 1980s when she was scouted, aged 18, shopping in Manchester with her mother. Despite parental concern (‘they were convinced that all models had to go topless’), she was soon sent to London, Paris and New York, and so began a career that saw her travelling the world and appearing on the covers of magazines. Her look was unusual, with her freckles and red hair, but it fitted the fashion for fresh, natural beauty. She still models, aged 50, and is effortlessly glamorous in jeans with no make up, her only adornment the giant rings and heavy necklace she commissioned from jeweller Tom McEwan and always wears ‘except when doing the washing up because the rings break things’. Modelling is now a sideline. ‘I have always collected – bringing thing back from abroad, whether a leaf or a shell, or a carving, and I have always made things for myself. My brother Garry restores antiques, and we used to work together doing up houses in London. When we moved here in 2007 in search of fresh air and space, Garry came to help with the house and one day, while I was away on holiday, he called to say that

there was a shop for rent a few miles away in Frome. I decided to take it. He made furniture to sell in it, I made decorative pieces, and we also stocked the work of people I admire, like potter Steven Geddes’. The shop was unusually edgy for a small West Country town, with its spare and surprising displays of Liddie’s arrangements in Victorian domes and framed collages of birds’ wings and vintage silk flowers, antler and horn lamps, poised taxidermy and chunky knitted rugs. Liddie closed the shop last year, and has now opened a shop on London’s Lillie Road, which mixes her own creations with quirky antiques. ‘It’s ironic to have a shop there’, she says, ‘having bought this house to escape from city life’. So Somerset remains ‘home’, London a two-day-a week change of scene. This house is where Liddie works, assembling her sculptures with bones, coral, shell and the birds, butterflies and insects that were once gathered and displayed by Victorian and Edwardian collectors. ‘Everything I use is old’. She explains, and her workshop is a store of ingredients from crates of antlers to stacked cases of butterflies


The old kitchen, now a dining room, is a menagerie of antique animal remains. The framed artwork is one of Liddie’s creations, using feather, vintage silk flowers, and butterflies.

English eccentric

The chunky knitted bedspread and rug are made to Liddie’s design from the wool of rare breed sheep. At the foot of the bed is a vaulting horse from an old gym.

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on pins. She also makes ‘memorabilia’ domes to commission, incorporating personal treasures, anything from theatre tickets to toys, to bits of wedding cake. She is very slightly irritated that the fashion for putting unexpected things under glass has caught up with her. She prefers to be a pioneer. The house is a Liddie Holt Harrison creation on a larger scale, and would be rather more difficult to copy. After the stripping of walls, lifting of fitted carpets, removal or parquet from stone flags, and the restoration of the earlier wing, which dates from the 17th century, there were reclaimed bathroom and light fittings to source and a slate sink to install so heavy it had to be transported into the house on log rollers. ‘The house will never be finished because I keep buying things for it’, says Liddie. ‘I have to buy things – maybe I need therapy!’. ‘Certainly, it is hard to imagine how the rooms could digest much more. Even the kitchen has its share of curiosities including a lifelike crocheted cauliflower under a dome, a pair of stuffed eels, and a horse’s skull, while the ‘bird room’ and dining room are decorated floor-

A giant antler converted into a candelabra sits in the middle of the dining table.

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COTSWOLD

MOTORING MUSEUM & TOY COLLEC TION

West Somerset Railway Between Bishops Lydeard (near Taunton) & Minehead New for 2014: West Somerset Railway Augmented Reality Heritage Hunter App.

England’s Longest Heritage Railway Steam Trains Daily until October 5th Dunster Castle Express every Wednesday and Saturday Hestercombe Express every Wednesday Plenty of other special events and catering specials taking place throughout the year.

For more info call us on 01643 704996 or visit www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk

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to-ceiling with the exotic, bizarre, and mostly animal related. Liddie finds beauty in things that others might consider macabre. ‘I know some people think it strange to have a horse’s skull in the kitchen’, she says, ‘but it gives me pleasure to look at’. Other oddities have a sentimental value, such as ‘Duck Man’, a somewhat sinister sculpture the size of a small child, with a swollen beer belly, splayed Neanderthal feet, and a Donald Duck beak from which hang two small fish ‘I have had him for years and years’, says Liddie, and ‘I love him’. Anyone less robust might lie awake at night expecting to hear the stomp of his flat feet advancing up the stairs, But this is someone who brought home the jaw of a shark she had eaten on the beach in Lamu,wrapped in newspaper as hand luggage on the plane, and whose wedding present to her husband when they got married six years ago was a stuffed turkey in a glass case. Howard was delighted with the turkey. He is a fan of Liddie’s style. ‘I am happy to go with the flow’, he says. However many sharks or crocodiles in may contain n

The far end of the 17th century wing had been used as a barn and to shelter animals.This space has now become the media room below and the main bedroom above. Liddie’s dislike of the modern led to their choice of a discreet projector, seen mounted on the left, allowing Howard to view sport writ large on the blank white wall opposite, while minimizing intrusive hardware,The sawn log table and bench are made by Liddie’s brother, antique restorer and furniture maker Garry Holt, Shelves along the back are loaded with interior magazines.

The guest bathroom features a huge antique polar bear skin rug, the head of which had been damaged when Liddie bought it at auction, and for which she has made and painted a new nose and lips. Above the brick-shaped tiling, walls in this bathroom are hung with some of Liddie’s collection of framed butterflies and beetles. On the wall above the bathtub hand shellpictures, pincluding the first one Liddie made, which sparked a series of commissions. Liddie is as practical as she is artistic, willing to take on any task from making a leather handbag to painting and decorating or reglazing a sash window. RETIREMENT

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English eccentric

Irish wolfhound Reginald, the largest of the five dogs, sits in the doorway of the hall dwarfing miniature dachshund Ernie.

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House Exterior

Forty-Four Little Books

Forty-Four Little Books

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ere is a different story. Our housekeeper occupies not a grand country house but a ten-bedroomed, isolated farmhouse at the foot of the South Downs. She has none of the obvious trappings of power: no black dress, no keys around her waist, no wood-panelled sitting room with fireplace stoked by a cowed young maid. There is, in fact, no retinue of underlings to keep in line: she has just the house (damp, decaying) as her gruelling charge. She lives in close proximity to her mistress, eventually to share a familiarity unimaginable to previous generations on both sides of the class divide. The tale of Grace Higgens is a story of loyalty – excessive loyalty, perhaps – and it unfolds over fifty years of the greatest period of social change Britain has yet seen, defined by the central event of the Second World War. Grace entered service as a housemaid for the Bell family in 1920, when deferential teenage maids still curtsied and averted their eyes and cooks were hidden away in dark basement kitchens. By the time of her retirement in 1971 she was the last of her line: an anachronism serving a household of one in the same year that a drama called Upstairs, Downstairs made its debut on ITV. No one in 1971 had live-in servants. No one could find live-in servants. Or if you could, you kept quiet about it. Even though Grace married and became a mother, she chose to remain living in the freezing attic at Charleston working for Vanessa Bell (on £5 a week, bath night Fridays) right up until her sixtyseventh year, though her husband Walter clearly wished it otherwise. Having finally made the break, she was found a decade later by a Sunday Times reporter sitting in her Ringmer ‘chalet’, fulminating about a disrespectful TV documentary on the Bloomsbury Group (‘What rubbish!’). Through retirement and right up to her death, Grace kept scrapbooks of every press cutting she could find on the circle – her circle. The individuals she worked for had – and still have – a reputation RETIREMENT

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for being wildly unconventional, so much so that it is odd to think of servants being a part of their ménage at all.The household of artist Vanessa Bell waxed and waned over Grace’s half-century to include her separated husband Clive Bell, their children Julian and Quentin and her one-time lover and lifelong companion, the homosexual artist Duncan Grant. There was also her younger daughter Angelica, secretly fathered by Duncan, whom Clive Bell had agreed to pass off as his own.Vanessa’s sister, the author Virginia Woolf, was central to this family, as was her husband Leonard Woolf. So intriguing and well documented is the group that its clamorous voice threatens to overwhelm this housekeeper’s tale. My aim is to turn down the volume on the ‘Bloomsbury Set’, on its clever irony and selfconscious wit, and to coax into life the unheard voice of domestic servant Grace Higgens. After her death in 1983, a hoard of forty-four little books was discovered among Grace’s possessions. She had been an inveterate diarist. From the first ruled exercise book kept beneath her mattress, Duncan Grant’s Studio


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aged 16, to the hardbacked, illustrated recipe diary written in her seventy-ninth year, Grace recorded her day-to-day life with an eye for pithy detail. There are the Provençal peasants on her first trip abroad with the Bell family in 1921, ‘who came & stared & jabbered in French’; the dinner guest resembling film star ‘Fatty’ Arbuckle; the Woolfs on their bicycles in Sussex looking ‘absolute freaks, Mr Woolf with a corduroy coat which had split up the back like a swallow tail, & Mrs Woolf in a costume she had had for years’. Later – thirty or forty years later – Grace was still trenchant. ‘Sat for my portrait after lunch . . . I had a peep & think I look a peevish woman’; ‘The house looks as if a tornado had hit it’; ‘Heard our voices on Tape machine. Sounded ghastly’; and, returning to France for the last time in 1960, ‘I spilt so much Chanel 5 on myself I smelt like a whore, but better I hope.’ The cache of diaries, along with letters, photographs and scrapbooks, was acquired by the British Library in 2007 as background material for scholars of Bloomsbury, every famous name carefully annotated. But the mundane nature of much of her diary entries (‘Whist drive’; ‘hen on goose egg’; ‘cricket match Firle’) give us perhaps a truer picture of Charleston than Bloomsbury’s own descriptions of the notorious house parties where T. S. Eliot was served two whole grouse, or when Quentin Bell dressed up as a stout lady and spoke in a falsetto.The arc of Grace’s story has its own validity: this was her house, after all, for thirty-seven years. In some senses it was more hers than Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant’s, who shuttled between London and Sussex. And for Grace’s son John, it was the only childhood home he knew. Grace was practically a child when she started working for Vanessa Bell; she was 16 years old. She did her growing up with this family. But at 30 she became a wife and soon afterwards a mother – and this is when she decided to make her married home in the attics of Charleston. She wouldn’t leave the farmhouse until she was 67. The intimate moments of family life were played out in small, squeezed spaces, under the noses of those she served. The Higgens family and the Bell family lived on top of each other, quite literally, in a claustrophobic unit that would have been unthinkable to previous housekeepers and their mistresses. There was no question as to which family had the worse deal – but what did it feel like to be on Grace’s side of the master–servant divide? Was this simply a tale of sacrifice, or was it perhaps one of an identity gained? n An extract from The Housekeeper’s Tale by Tessa Boase, published by Aurum Press, £20 Hardback

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to live with one of these conditions in a society that generally doesn’t acknowledge them. Dementia affects far more than memory; it affects motor skills as well as perception and interpretation. To a person living with dementia, a strip of carpet in a shopping centre can look like a gaping hole in the ground, and making a cup of tea can become a mammoth task. Imagine living in a reality where you can’t trust the senses that have guided you through life, where your perceptions play cruel tricks, and those around you join in with the joke.

Lets not join in; let’s be Dementia Friends!

Are you a Dementia Friend? By Bethany Bishop

Are you a Dementia Friend?

Dementia.

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It’s a word that stands alone. When it speaks, it is not heard. If it is heard, it is not understood. It follows us like an eerie shadow, threatening to break into the chambers of our minds, where it will sever the links between memory and reality forever. It will twist and tear our identity as it burns gaping holes in our past, and plunges our future into darkness. You can relax now. Dementia is not a malevolent force; nor is it the boogy-man under the bed, or even a natural part of the ageing process. Dementia shouldn’t be told as a scary story - but it does stand alone, and it isn’t understood. That is a terrible shame. Little is generally known about degenerative diseases like these, so let’s have a quick look at how they affect the brain (by what I hope is a very pretty metaphor): Imagine a Christmas Tree with lots of differently coloured lights (I refuse to acknowledge the cries that this analogy is too festive). Eventually, one of the lights might go out, or several may start to flicker. Sometimes, a group may go out while another group light up again. The thread of bright colourful light becomes an inconsistent string of flickering illumination and darkness. This gives a good impression of how conditions RETIREMENT

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Dementia Friends are an organisation that educate and encourage understanding and compassion. They endeavour to make a dementiafriend out of everyone, emphasising that to live with dementia is not to suffer with it. Adementia-friend sees people. They see memories and legacies; they see a life with loves lost and gained, dreams lived and unrealised. They don’t see dementia; they see people who live with it.

To be a friend is easy, and it can be fun!

such as dementia affect the electrical pathways of the brain. A past memory or time in life may become a bright vivid reality, while the present-day ‘goes out’ - and vice versa. As time goes on, the malfunction gets worse. More lights go out and the circuit becomes more erratic. Though it is accurate to say that such conditions commonly affect the short-term memory, many also do not realise that what is forgotten immediately is not truly gone. For example: you may think it doesn’t matter to be little short with a person with dementia, because they’ll forget what happened anyway. Not true. It does matter, because the enigma that is the human brain retains those feelings of hurt, anger and confusion… even when it loses the cause of feeling them. Similarly though, a person with dementia may forget your name, or even who you are, but they will not forget the overriding feeling of warmth and safety you leave them with after a visit. Words like Dementia, Alzheimers and Parkinsons are pretty frightening, they can be hard to face. They’re even scarier because despite being more common in older people, they can affect anyone from the age of around 30. Just imagine then, how terribly frightening it would be

All you have to do is register on the Dementia Friends website (www. dementiafriends.org.uk). You can also attend a Dementia Friend session near you, where you’ll gain knowledge, a neat little badge and a good-deed challenge! But I think it’s the deed that’s the really thing important here. It’s something that is entirely your choice, and can range from sharing the Dementia Friends site on Facebook, to simply promising to be more accepting and understanding of those with degenerative conditions of the brain in future. Go on; bake some cakes for a retirement home near you, donate a few pennies to a charity that works with these conditions, attend a session, publicise Dementia Friends, write a hit song, knit a jumper with a pretty blue and yellow flower on the front - or just visit your nan more! Whatever you choose to do, I guarantee you’ll feel fantastic; and you’ll be a bit of a hero.A little change in attitude makes a big difference. To understand and support those with dementia today is to promise others and ourselves a brighter and happier tomorrow n


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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

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O

ur culture’s a good thing with positive preoccupation transformational effects. with suppressing “Becoming more aware of death feelings and fear can completely change ones of facing our own perspective of life. It can be mortality means extremely liberating. It may lead Britons are not successfully to fewer anxieties and worries managing their will and about the smaller things in life estate, according to cognitive and instead help us embrace the psychologist Dr Lynda Shaw. present. Many people who have So what is the psychology had a near death experience behind our fear of death? “To talk of becoming less selfish and put it simply, it is the fear of the materialistic, and more ambitious unknown or the terror of the in every area of their life with less emotional impact that there is fear of failure.” nothing” says Shaw. “There is Shaw says that adopting such a psychological concept called the an attitude will help us become less Terror Management Theory. This afraid of writing a will. “Writing a focuses on our fear and possible will can be a positive experience.You denial of death despite knowing its are doing something responsible that inevitability. We try to hide from is ensuring your family’s security and the reality of death by seeking out relieving them of the burden. It isn’t distractions or manage the fear by a dark experience. We must accept following a religion that supports that death is inevitable and make beliefs in life after death. peace with it and act appropriately in “We are scared to talk about writing a will.” death, particularly our own. It feels Shaw points out that the problem is morbid. It is very much a cultural compounded by our mistaken belief By Dr Lynda Shaw problem, unlike in many Asian that our assets will automatically be cultures where it is perfectly natural to talk about death. distributed amongst our nearest and dearest in the absence As a result, we choose to sweep death under the carpet of a will. “When somebody dies without leaving a will, which means we are not fulfilling our obligation to their assets are divided up according to strict government organise our estate and are instead leaving it to our loved guidelines, often incurring financial penalties for the family ones to clean up the mess and deal with complicated left behind. This can cause huge stress and arguments financial problems when we die. Nearly 6 out of 10 within the family which could easily be avoided.” UK adults don’t have a will, including one in three www.drlyndashaw.com n over-55’s, according to research from Unbiased.co.uk (http://www.unbiased.co.uk/write-and-register-a-will). How you can make a difference “Smokers typically know that it will probably end up beyond your lifetime. killing them but detaching themselves from this reality When making a will, obviously we all like to ensure that means they can carry on regardless. Some cultural values and friends and family have been looked after, but following this religions usually promote the idea of an afterlife which comforts why not consider leaving a legacy to a charity. If you have a us as it offers a possibility that death is not the end. Whatever your favourite charity that you have supported throughout your life, beliefs though the practicalities of needing a will in this life cannot leaving a legacy to them in your will, allows them to continue be ignored.” their good work for future generations. According to Terror Management Theory, the anxiety caused by Legacies are the foundation of many of this country’s mortality is a major motivator behind many human behaviours and charities and in our present day are continually under pressure cognitions. In our society in particular, the culture of the British ‘stiff for donations, and many charities we know and support upper lip’ promotes behaviours that have led to us not talking about wouldn’t survive if it wasn’t for money left in wills. death making it inevitable that writing a will is something we are A gift to charity does not have to be a large amount of reluctant to address. money - a small gift or percentage can make a real difference. However, Shaw argues that addressing death can actually be RETIREMENT

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The psychology of writing a will

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF WRITING A WILL

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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,

Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland

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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

We care about those left behind following the death of a loved one from these conditions, and we are here to offer support at a sensitive time.

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A gift in memory of a loved one is a very special way of reflecting on one life, while helping to improve and save thousands more. • By funding innovative and groundbreaking research studies in Scotland’s University medical schools, Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland offers hope for the future. • By offering emotional support and expert guidance through its FREE Advice Line 0808 801 0899, the charity is there when people need it most. • By providing valuable support through its groups, clubs and befriending services, the charity gives people a lifeline, reducing the isolation and discomfort caused by these conditions. • By raising awareness and influencing services in Scotland, this charity takes action on behalf of the people it supports. All gifts in tribute to a loved one make a real difference for the future. For more information please contact: Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland T: 0131 225 4800 E: gifts@chss.org.uk

One fantastic way to show you care. Maisie was found tied up, alone, and with painful open wounds to her abdomen. Her exhausted body showed signs that she had been used to breed puppies time after time, with little care shown to her between litters, she was suffering from mastitis which had caused two of her mammary glands to burst. Wood Green treated Maisie’s injuries, changed her dressings every day and fed her the nutritious food she needed to gain weight. Happily rehomed, it’s thanks to the kindness of people like you they were able to help Maisie through her ordeal. Just £5 will help give a day’s care to a dog like Maisie. Please will you support Wood Green, The Animals Charity? You can help them by donating a day of care to a homeless dog, cat or rabbit who is still longing for their forever home.

People should leave clear instructions about what should happen to their social media, computer games and other online accounts after their death, according to the Law Society. Having a list of all your online accounts, such as email, banking, investments and social networking sites will make it easier for family members to piece together your digital legacy, adhere to your wishes and could save time and money. Not making your digital legacy clear could mean important or sentimental material - such as photographs on social networks - is never recovered. Digital assets can also include music, films, email accounts and computer game characters. Gary Rycroft, a member of the Law Society Wills and Equity Committee said people should not assume family members know where to look online and to make details of their digital life absolutely clear. “If you have a Twitter account, your family may want it deactivated and if you have left clear instructions - it will be easier for your executors to have it closed. If you have an online bank account, your executors will be able to close it down and claim the money on behalf of your estate. “This is recognised in The Law Society Wills & Inheritance Quality Scheme (WIQS) Protocol which recommends completion and maintenance of a Personal Assets Log including digital assets and consideration of how to ensure that those dealing with the estate will be able to access those assets. “This is preferable to leaving a list of passwords or PIN numbers as an executor accessing your account with these details could be committing a criminal offence under the Computer Misuse Act 1990. It is enough to leave a list of online accounts and ensure this is kept current.” Law Society president Nicholas Fluck said: “As technology has evolved, so has the way we store information. Simple things such as photographs, which in the past we could have flicked through in a printed album, are now stored online. By making our wishes clear now, it will be easier for loved ones to recover pictures to cherish and will help with the more practical issues such as online bank accounts.”

Please donate via text, visit woodgreen.org.uk or call 0844 875 0150

The Law Society has accredited the first group of law firms to its new Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme (WIQS).

Texts charged at £5 plus your standard network rate. Wood Green, The Animals Charity will receive 100% of your donation.

WIQS is the first recognised quality standard for wills and estate administration in England and Wales RETIREMENT

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Charity News

Right now, 1 in 50 people in Scotland are struggling to breathe as a result of chronic chest illness – and every 45 minutes someone in Scotland will have a heart attack or a stroke. We exist to combat the social isolation, anxiety and daily struggles those living with these devastating conditions can face.

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