August magazine 2015

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South Bristol August 2015

Photo By Chris Bahn Inside This Month Salon of the Year South Bristol Slimmer’s Recipe For Disaster Success Academy Bristol Balloon Fiesta Whitchurch Fete Dementia Awareness & More! www.DirectLocalOnline.com

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Inside This Month

…………………………………………………………

Senior Editor Mike Davies Proof Reader Elisabeth Davies …………………………………………………………

Regulars Nadia Watkins (Editorial) Sarah Bryant (Editorial) Abby Pickles (Editorial) Maggie Proom (Editorial) Direct Local Is Always Looking For Local News, Views & Events. Please Contact Us

By Email or Phone.

Direct Local Magazine Is Proud To Support...

Disclaimer The opinions expressed in Direct Local do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publisher or their agents. Whilst every reasonable care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information included within this publication, the publisher takes no responsibility for errors or omissions in Direct Local.

The content of Direct Local is not to be reproduced in any form without permission of the publisher. Please pass to a friend, recycle or compost after reading.

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South Bristol Slimmers

Salon Of The Year

15

9 Bristol Balloon Fiesta

23

16 24

Dementia Awareness

The Fabulous Baker Bros

The Success Academy

10 Recipe For Disaster Whitchurch Fete

17 25

School Holidays Are Here

13 21 Christmas Came Early

Feel Good factor

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Victoria Rose Beauty Wins

Salon Of The Year Award!

Victoria Rose Beauty Salon is very proud to announce that we are the winners of prestigious 2015 large salon of the year awards by ‘Babtac’ (British association of beauty therapy and cosmetology) Babtac was established in Gloucester in 1977, BABTAC is the premier UK association for beauty, hair, holistic and sports therapies. They are 'not for profit' and their main concerns are the well-being of their members, regulation of the industry and public welfare.

Governed by a Council of industry professionals, they also offer unrivaled beauty expertise, a rigorous ethical code and a professional practice standard. Their logo is a sign of confidence; a salon can display it with pride and give their clients assurance of their qualifications and commitment to excellence. Every year Babtac hosts an award ceremony where the very best in the industry from across the UK are selected and a winner is chosen from a selection of finalists across different categories depending on the size of the salon and the treatment offered.

As members of Babtac Victoria Rose Beauty Salon decided to enter for the large salon of the year category in March this year after accessing their application in great detail they were placed in the final five in the UK. This was a great achievement in itself as victoria Rose beauty salon was the only salon in Bristol to make it through to the finals.

Each salon took part in a grilling process of mystery shopping including a phone call and two mystery visitors who were experts in the beauty industry. They were judged on website, booking, exterior, reception, merchandising, staff, treatment rooms, treatment and customer Service.

Victoria Rose Beauty Salon attended the glamorous ‘Fire and Ice’ themed event in the Flazeley studios in Birmingham on Sunday 21st of June and was presented for the award for large salon of the year. The judges Said: “A very pretty, feminine reception area. Good range of treatments and products available. It has a pleasant outdoor space..

They are situated in a good position on the High Street. The salon has recently been rebranded to Victoria Rose since their move from Clifton. Victoria Rose Beauty Salon is nice, light bright airy and traditional salon with an outdoor twist.”

The salon owner Rebecca Farrell says “I am delighted that we have won this award against such strong competition. I am so proud of my team for their hard work and high standards and thankful of our loyal clients for supporting us in getting this far. We will continue to strive improve our standards and the services we provide.

We are also opening a second salon in Chipping Sodbury this August and intend to deliver the same level of service there.”

We would like to thank all our amazing clients for their loyalty and support to us other the past year we could not have done it with out you.

265 North St, Southville, Bristol BS3 1JN

0117 930 0365 4. Call Direct Local on 07500 017236* info@DirectLocalOnline.com * www.DirectLocalOnline.com

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In conjunction with Big Green Week, take a tour around Bristol and the West of England’s only textile recycling factory where 100 tonnes of unwanted clothing is sorted and exported every week for reuse in Eastern Europe, Africa and Pakistan.

Built in 1950, the building BTR currently resides in was a row of houses until bombed during WWII. The building was originally utilized for the manufacturing of engineering equipment until BTR relocated here in 1997.

At the tour, we will walk you through the 160 different categories we grade 20 tonnes of clothing in daily. We will give you information about where we get the textile from, where they go and why the textile recycling industry is important.

Be the next recycler of the month We offer the recycler of the month project to recognise the achievement of one school or charity every month!

Ways to win Collect the highest amount in the month and receive a £20 one –4-all voucher to go towards needed materials for your organisation.

Use your own bags and collect over 500KG of clothing, paired shoes, handbags and belts during one collection and earn 50p per kilo for your extra recycling efforts.

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New addition to the family?

Puppies and kittens need a little time to get used to their new surroundings, so make sure the household is as calm and safe as possible.

Provide them with a nice comfy bed or ‘den’ so they can escape all the excitement and feel secure. Puppies and kittens need to have their initial vaccinations to protect them from potentially life threatening diseases.

We usually recommend that these are given at 8, 10 and 12 weeks of age for puppies, while for kittens at 9 and 12 weeks old. It is also very important to make sure that your new pet is treated for fleas and worms on a regular basis.

At such a young age, they are particularly susceptible to certain parasites so need to be protected. If you would prefer to change the food to a different brand than they are used to, make sure you introduce this new diet gradually to avoid any upset tummies.

No matter of how much you care for your pet, you can't be in control of them all the time. Microchip them as early as possible so that you can be reunited if the worst happens.

Finally, always consider insuring your pet. The main benefit of pet insurance is the reassurance that should your pet become unwell, they can have all the treatment they require, without compromise, and without you having to worry about the cost of treatment.

Pop in to see us at Brislington Veterinary Surgery for a FREE health check and a cuddle!

Visit our website at www.highcroftvet.co.uk or call us on 01179 715 115 7. Call Direct Local on 07500 017236 * info@DirectLocalOnline.com * www.DirectLocalOnline.com

MONDAY St Peters Church Hall School Room, Church Road, Bishopsworth, BS13 8JR 5.30pm and 7.30pm Tina: 01179 407 471 St Cuthberts Church Wick Road, Brislington, BS4 4HE 5:30pm and 7:30pm Millie: 07879 423 665 TUESDAY Counterslip Baptist Church Wells Road, Hengrove, BS14 9HT 5:00pm and 7:00pm Debbie: 07796 945 039 St Cuthberts Church Wick Road, Brislington, BS4 4HE 9:30am Aimee: 07791 235996 St Annes Junior School Wick Road, St Annes, BS4 4EJ 7:30pm Emma: 01173 825 844 Hengrove Community Centre Fortfield Road, Hengrove, BS14 9NX 9:30am Sarah: 07879 443 888 WEDNESDAY Bridge Farm Primary School East Dundry Road, Whitchurch, BS14 0LL 5:30pm and 7:30pm Sarah: 07879 443 888

WEDNESDAY St Christophers Church Hampstead Road, Brislington, BS4 3HJ 5:30pm and 7:30pm Emma: 01173 825 844 The Gatehouse Centre Hareclive Road, Hartcliffe, BS13 9JN 9.30am, 11.30am, 5pm & 7pm Vicky: 07999 617 075 THURSDAY The Ex Service Club Winford Grove, Bedminster Down, BS13 7DY 9.30 am, 11.30am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Debbie: 07796 945 039 Christ The Servant Stockwood Road, Stockwood, BS14 8SP 5pm and 7pm Vicky: 07999 617 075 FRIDAY The Ex Service Club Winford Grove, Bedminster Down, BS13 7DY 9.30 am, Debbie: 07796 945 039

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Join South Bristol Slimmer's In Slimming World Does Race For Life To Raise Funds To Beat

Cancer

Local slimmers are preparing to hold a Slimming World does Race for Life event, and are encouraging people in Bristol to join them and help raise money for a leading cancer charity.

The participants, who are all members of local Slimming World groups, will be helping t o raise money for Cancer Research UK, Slimming World’s charity partner, through its fundraising arm SMILES (Slimmers Making It a Little Easier for Someone). The event is open for local people to join in, whether it’s taking part or spectating and money raised will help to fund research to beat 200 types of cancer affecting men, women and children.

The group’s event is part of a national series taking place across all Slimming World groups between July 19th and August 8th. The group have chosen to cover laps of Redcatch park, and the event is not competitive. Those taking part can choose how much of the distance they’d like to cover and can run or walk the course.

As well as raising money for Cancer Research UK, the aim of Slimming World does Race for Life is to raise awareness of how keeping a healthy weight and being active can help improve health and reduce the risk of certain cancers.

Sarah, who runs the Hengrove and Whitchurch Slimming World groups every week, says her members are really looking forward to their Slimming World does Race for Life event. She says: “We’re calling on people in the local area to join in whether they take part on the day, sponsor a friend or loved one or cheer them along the course. Anyone who wants to take part can run, walk or jog the distance – as long as they cross the finish line we don’t mind! Hopefully the event will inspire more people to get active, help improve their health, and show people just how motivating being part of a group like ours can be.”

She continues: “Money raised will go towards helping Cancer Research UK to fund pioneering, life-saving research into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.”

Sarah, a consultant who has lost 2st 7lbs herself, says: It’s a cause close to my heart and I’m sure it will be a fantastic event. Before losing weight I used to be daunted by the thought of doing exercise, and didn’t really feel capable of taking those first steps to becoming more active. With Slimming World’s Body Magic programme I learnt that the key is to start small and find something that you enjoy, and I’ve found that to be the best way to make staying active a regular habit and lose weight at the same time. There’s no rule that says getting exercise has to involve a gym or running shorts – walking to collect my children from school or hitting the dance floor on a night out is enough. I definitely wouldn’t have entered anything like this before I found Slimming World, but since losing weight I’m feeling much healthier, happier and more confident – I can't wait!

IN AID OF

CANCER RESEARCH UK

For more information about the local Slimming World groups or their Slimming World does Race for Life event contact Sarah on :

07879 443888 or pop along to a group.

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Registry Cleaners, Driver Updates and Speed-up Tools– a Recipe

For Disaster?

We’re always looking for ways to speed up our PCs and laptops, aren’t we? We want to make them run more smoothly, reduce errors and Blue Screens of Death.

There are plenty of free downloads which promise to help. But are we putting our computers at risk?

Registry Cleaners The registry is infamous, and hundreds of software titles claim to be able to solve the problems it causes. These programs strip out bits of the Registry which they claim are useless or broken. But the Registry hasn’t benefitted from cleaning since Windows Vista, and doing so will not speed up your PC. You could even end up breaking Windows by using one of the poorly-programmed titles which are a bit gung-ho about their job.

Driver Updates You see the adverts everywhere online, trying to get you to scan your PC and ‘Update Your Drivers.’ You can download software tools which will do this for you, and bring all your hardware drivers up to date. But bringing a driver up to date only helps in very specific cases, and can actually cause more problems than it solves. Many crash– prone Windows systems have bad drivers as their cause, and some newer drivers are not compatible with your laptop from a few years back.

PC Speed up tools You can find dozens of all-in-one suites which will clean the Registry, update your drivers and strip out tonnes of ‘unnecessary’ Windows components to help give your PC a speed boost. As you can probably tell by now, carrying this out without the proper caution can really chop mighty holes in an otherwise healthy computer. You really need to know what you’re doing to make proper use of these software suites.

How to solve the problem.

So are all these programs mere snake-oil, to be avoided at all costs? They certainly can bring unwanted malware onto your computer, and some titles try to get you to phone premium rate international numbers.

But not all these titles are untameable monsters. Here’s how to stay safe, while getting the best from this software.

1. only use the tools to target specific problems. If you’re having trouble uninstalling a program, a Registry cleaner might be needed, but only remove those entries related to your problem software. A good cleaner will let you do this.

2. Only use software that’s been recommended by an expert, or someone you know who’s used it. I’d go with CCleaner for junk file clearance, SlimDrivers for updates, and System Mechanic for all-in-one cleaning.

These titles let you pick and choose which problems to solve. Avoid the temptation to tick all the boxes!

3. Backup, backup, backup your whole system before you do anything! And know how to restore from backup when something goes wrong. At Ship Shape Computers, I’ve seen my customers use every type of program to speed up their PC, often with devastating results. So think about what you’re trying to do, and use a tool that is accurate and reliable. And most importantly of all, make sure you can roll back any changes you make, before you risk making a bad situation worse. Alternatively, call in someone who can carry out the pinpoint repairs needed without resorting to these scanners and Russian Roulette repairs!

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Had an

Accident?

Welcome to Accident Management Bristol, in association with Body Repairs Bristol Ltd. We are here to provide a number of services to innocent road traffic accident victims. If you have been involved in an accident, through no fault of your own, then you are legally entitled to compensation for reasonable losses and injury. You do not have to claim from your own insurance. As the innocent party, you can claim compensation from the person who caused the accident, and that person's insurance company.

For more information on Accident Management Bristol, please get in touch.

We work with a number of accident management partners, to provide a range of services, at no expense to you. These include the following: 

Replacement vehicle - We can provide a like for like vehicle to cover the period during which you car is being repaired, or whilst you are looking for a full time replacement. We will always try to match your existing vehicle as closely as possible. This includes prestige, taxis, motorcycles and lorries.

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No excess - If you are involved in an accident that is not your fault, you may still have to pay your insurance excess if your insurance company deals with your claim. However, when you employ our services, we save you this expense.

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Repair - We will arrange for a qualified and independant motor engineer to inspect your vehicle after the accident. If your car is repairable then we will carry out all necessary repairs at Body Repairs Bristol, this minimizing any disruption to you, the valued client. Get in touch with Accident Management Bristol for more.

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The School Holidays Are

Here!

So that means are famous doorstep visits will be available throughout the summer school holidays as well as our 15,30,60min appearances bookings!

DOORSTEP VISITS OUR ONLY ÂŁ10 which includes sweet cone....

REMEMBER YOU CAN CHOOSE ANY CHARACTER (anna & elsa requests Thursdays only)..... so contact us today with your preferred date and we will book you in for our famous doorstep visits with character of your choice....

BRINGING CHILDREN'S DREAMS TO REALITY! We also attend parties, fetes, pubs, weddings etc.

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The Success

Academy

The Success Academy has a mission to boost confidence, improve self-esteem and encourage self-belief in children between 8 and 16!

Contact: Abby on 07894966608 or abby@yes-icandoit.com Online: www.the-success-academy.org Twitter: @Operation_MAD Facebook: Operation M.A.D

Want to give your children the opportunity to ‘Make a Difference’? Then get in touch to find out more, and to book your child a place!

The Success Academy is launching 3 more confidence boosting after-school clubs in September, thanks to the fantastic support from Bedminster Down Secondary School and Victoria Park Primary School!

Email: info@yes-icandoit.com

Search: www.the-success-academy.org

Tel: 07894 966608

Based around promoting a positive and honest “can-do” attitude in kids all around Bristol, the organisation’s first programme, Operation ‘MAD’ launched at the end of April. By teaching the students valuable life-skills, the group created inspiring ‘Make a Difference’ projects, including feeding and caring for the homeless (at an event they successfully planned!). After becoming a roaring success in South Bristol, the club is now being introduced at local schools on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings starting in September.

The Success Academy is designed to help children see how special they are, whilst teaching them about goal setting, visualisation and different organisation, communication, and learning techniques.

The children’s organisation has had a great year so far, teaching these life-changing lessons… They are now really excited for the opportunity to help even more young people.

Victoria Park Primary School are launching Operation ‘MAD’ as an after-school club on Tuesday’s starting mid-September - for only £5.50 per session! That’s less than £2.25 per hour for busy parents who need cheap childcare (3:15pm-5:30pm).

Bedminster Down Secondary School are running 2 programmes – Operation ‘MAD’ for Year’s 7 & 8 (Wednesday’s), and Operation ‘Success’ for Year’s 9, 10 & 11 (Monday’s). These are both only £6.50 per 2 hour session.

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BRISTOL INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FIESTA TAKES TO THE SKIES FOR 2015 Bristol will play host to Europe’s largest ballooning event, an amazing spectacle and FREE event for the whole family from Thursday 6th – Sunday 9th August 2015. Over 150 hot air balloons will take off from Ashton Court Estate at dawn and dusk, and light up the skies at night with evening balloon glows.

The event features four days of colourful hot-air balloon displays, with half a million visitors gathering in the gorgeous grounds of Ashton Court to watch balloons of all shapes and sizes lift off over the City of Bristol.

Entertainment for all the family includes aerial displays, fairground rides, delicious food stalls and bars, balloon tethering, model aircraft displays, experiential activities and a local music stage.

The event opens at midday on Thursday 6th August and visitors will get a sneak peek at the special shape balloons as they ascend for the first time at 6pm Visitors looking to attend the event this summer are encouraged to make travel arrangements in advance. Advance car parking is now open for bookings. For £6 per car per day, visitors are guaranteed a space within a short distance of the showground and a dedicated entrance and exit the fiesta site.

Nightglow and Fireworks Finale Late night visitors can take in the spectacle of the famous nightglow, a stunning sight with 30 teams lighting up their balloon in time to music as night falls at 9.15pm on Thursday 7th and Saturday 9th August. As the balloons finish their performance, the skies light up over Ashton Court Estate to spectacular fireworks.

To find out more about this year’s festival, please visit www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk

Watch spectacular balloon ascents up close Visit the fiesta from Friday morning at 6am for ‘Breakfast and Balloons’, watching the hot air balloons take to the sky as the sun rises with a morning coffee and bacon sandwich. For the evening ascents, visitors are encouraged to arrive early to get a good spot to watch pilots inflate the balloons and take off at 6pm. Visitors looking for a sneak peek at the special shapes can watch them ascend for the first time on Thursday night at 6pm.

Last year’s special shapes included the first visit from a Smurf, all the way from Belgium!

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Fun For All At Whitchurch Village Fete

The 39th Whitchurch Village Fete three-day event starts on Saturday August 29th with a traditional Barn Dance with the ‘Granny Smiths’ at 7.30pm - £5 adults, £1 children. On the Sunday, there will be bargains galore at the Car Boot Sale from 11am to 2pm and on the Bank Holiday Monday the annual Fete will provide great entertainment for the whole family.

The Flower Tent will be open to accept entries from 9.30am to 11.30am. Adult and children’s entries are welcome (eg flowers, fruit & veg, baking, wine, photos, arts & crafts) and a schedule can be obtained from Ann Edwards on (01275) 892128. Gates open at 12pm and the Fete will be opened at 1pm by the CoPresenter of BBC Radio Bristol’s Breakfast Show, Laura Rawlings.

Come and see Bristol Zoo’s Mini-monsters or have fun in the futuristic inflatable Hangar51 Laser tag arena.

Other stalls and attractions include Ferretworld (race the ferret!), children’s games, birds of prey, dog agility, Bitton Archers, alpacas and classic vehicles………….

We also have the ever popular tea tent, bar and Dog show, as well as arena events which include family sports, dancing, baton twirling, Air Cadets, martial arts, Kingswood Winds band. Do come along and join in the fun - there is something for everybody. Entrance: £2.50 Adults, £1.50 Children and OAPs. Free parking in the Barbarians Rugby Club off Norton Lane. Proceeds go to local charities & organisations. For further information, see www.whitchurchparishcouncil.co.uk .

To save on costs by booking your stall in advance , call Carole on 01275 836742 or email whitchurchvillagefete@hotmail.co.uk

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Ilminster Avenue Specialist Nursery School and Children’s Centre is situated in Knowle.

The school has four nursery classes and three classes for children with severe and complex needs, aged 3-7 years. The specialist children’s centre provides care and education for children under 3 years old, as well as family support for families of children 0-5years in Knowle and the surrounding area.

Health Services are on-site for children and young people 0-25 years old from the South Bristol area.

Please view the Summer Activity Programme and come along and join in, we are always welcoming new and existing families to take part in the groups and events.

We would love to see you at our summer activities especially for under 5 years and their families.

Krafty-D-Rascals is for young parents under 25 years and their children.

Please contact Laura at the Children’s Centre for further information.

Don’t forget your sun hats and sun cream as we are wishing for a hot summer.

If you have any questions please ring Ilminster Avenue Nursery School and Children’s Centre on 01179 039 781 or go to Facebook and our web page

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Christmas came early For

Bristol Fashion

Christmas came early for Bristol Fashion at their concert in Stoke Bishop on July 11 th!

We just had to share our new additions to our Christmas repertoire with the audience at our concert, and our guest artiste Charlie Green entered into the spirit for our photo call. Apart from our two festive songs we were proud to perform, for the very first time the Stereophonics’ ‘Have a nice day’ arranged specially for us by one of our members Beth Rothwell. Our lovely and brilliant quartet ‘Obsession’ complemented our programme beautifully and was very well received by the audience.

Charlie Green, with his wonderful voice, versatile style and repertoire and engaging presence completed an enjoyable evening.

The event raised more than £500 for Macmillan Cancer Care. A group of our ladies who entered the Race for Life raised a further £600+.

Baaahbershop Occasions!!

Look out for us in the sheep pen of the Baahber sheep at Wapping Wharf on 14 th and 28th of August from 5pm – 6.30p.m Recruiting now!

If what you read on these pages leads you to think you might like to try Barbershop singing check out our webpage www.bristol-fashion.org.uk or just drop in on us at Four Acres School. BS13 8RB on a Thursday evening from 7.30 – 10p.m, see what we do, maybe chat to some of us. We’ll give you a warm welcome.

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Dementia

Awareness

Dementia is the name given to an increasingly common set of symptoms associated with ageing and a deterioration of the brain and its abilities. It can be a very distressing and cruel illness that affects not only the patient but also anybody involved with that person. Those closest to the sufferer are most likely to feel the loss and pain as symptoms worsen.     

Memory Thinking speed Mental agility Language Understanding

It is important to understand that dementia is not simply ‘ageing’ or what we can reasonably expect but is instead markedly different. It is an illness that causes anxiety , distress, frustration, mood swings and even hostility and aggression. This is upsetting for the sufferer as well as their families and carers. People living with dementia may become demoralised, uninterested and apathetic. This eventually leads to them appearing withdrawn and losing enthusiasm and interest in self-care, their appearance and socialising. The deterioration in mental abilities means planning and organising become difficult as does decision making leading to a loss of independence. This decline can be distressing to close observers as the condition worsens. The sufferer may have difficulty controlling their emotions and experience a loss of empathy, understanding and compassion. They may see or hear things that other people do not (hallucinations) and may be paranoid to the point of making false accusations or claims. Understandably this can lead to rebuke or arguments. This may also lead to them becoming anxious and distressed or even threatening and abusive as they genuinely believe what they are saying.

The change in personality can be marked and it can literally feel like the sufferer is gradually receding and being replaced by somebody else. This symptom can be very upsetting especially for the uninitiated or those unfamiliar. It is important to understand that this is an illness and one should not be a quick to judge the victim of such powerful, destructive and insidious conditions. Younger family members can feel particularly hurt when granny doesn’t recognise them or remember their name for instance. One very sad part of living with dementia is that these memories are often how we remember the sufferer after they are gone and this perception replaces the character we once knew and loved. A lack of insight means the sufferer doesn’t even know they are not well and may quick temper or blame others in their frustration. The loss of language manifests as an inability to articulate or communicate what they think or feel and this fundamental lack of expression can lead the sufferer to feel isolated and trapped.

Obviously inappropriate behaviour like this can lead to feelings of guilt, shame and embarrassment or remorse and so social invitations and trips away gradually become a thing of the past. The partner or carer of the patient with dementia often struggles to deal with these changes and the condition impacts on their lives.

Often they feel they feel trapped and alone. Partners report they cannot relax or leave the house for even short periods; they have to be constantly alert and vigilant as the sufferer increasing becomes a risk to themselves and others. This is physically, mentally and emotionally draining and their love, patients, tolerance and compassion tested to their respective limits. Spurred on by a sense of commitment and duty, the carer/ partner often start to develop health issues of their own and the situation can become very complex and fraught. Either or both parties can become withdrawn and depressed as a result. It is truly an illness that strikes at the very heart of a person’s humanity and understanding. Time is precious and so are our memories.

Five Important facts you should know about Dementia.

Dementia is not a natural part of ageing It’s true that dementia is more common among over-65s, and some of us do become more forgetful as we get older or during times of stress or illness. But dementia is a different sort of forgetfulness. Your memory loss will be more noticeable, and may be accompanied by mood changes and confusion. It’s important to ask your GP to check out any unusual symptoms as these can sometimes be treated with appropriate medication.

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Dementia is caused by diseases of the brain Dementia is the name for a collection symptoms that include memory loss, mood changes and problems with communication and reasoning. These symptoms are brought about by a number of diseases that cause changes in the brain. The most common of these is Alzheimer's disease, which changes the chemistry and structure of the brain causing the brain cells to die. Other types of dementia include vascular dementia and Pick’s disease. A specialist will be able to diagnose specifically what is going on here.

It’s not just about losing your memory People often think of dementia as a form of memory loss. And usually it does start by affecting people’s short-term memory. But it’s more than that - it can also affect the way people think, speak, perceive things, feel and behave. Dementia makes it harder to communicate and do everyday things, but there is a lot that can be done to help. Every year we understand more about dementia, and develop new strategies that can help to boost someone's confidence and maintain their independence for as long as possible.

It’s possible to live well with dementia Most if us have an image in our mind of what life with dementia looks like. That image often very bleak. So it can be very surprising to learn that many people with dementia continue to drive, socialise and hold down satisfying jobs. Even as dementia progresses, many people lead to active, healthy lives, continue their hobbies, and enjoy loving friendships and relationships. Of course dementia does make it harder to do certain things, but with the right knowledge and support it is possible for someone with dementia to get the very best out of life.

There’s more than to a person with dementia The inspirational people we work with are living proof that life doesn’t end when dementia begins. When someone is diagnosed, their plans for future might change and they may need more help and support to keep doing the things they enjoy - but dementia doesn’t change who they are.

If you any concerns or are worried about your memory, please contact The Alzheimer's Society Helpline on 0300 222 11 22.

Diagnosis Remember forgetfulness is not dementia. The condition is much more than that. If you are concerned about your memory loss and perceived decline in mental abilities, call Hengrove Pharmacy on 0117 3003 5446 or make an appointment to see your GP. Either of these symptoms could have explanations such as stress or depression.

There is no cure for dementia . Early diagnosis can mean that the progression of the condition is slowed and mental ability can be maintained for longer. Following a visit to the doctor or your GP will enquire about other medications you may be taking, your symptoms that mimic dementia and a few alterations may be all that is needed. Otherwise a referral to a dementia specialist will be organised for a full evaluation. The specialist may want to organise further tests, which may include brain scan such as a computerised tomography (CT) scan, or preferably a magnetic resonance image (MRI) scan.

A team of Professionals are at hand to help, advise and support you throughout the entire process. Free an impartial advice is available from your pharmacist or from The Alzheimiers Society (see above).

Hengrove Pharmacy, Hengrove Lane, Bristol, BS14 9DB, 0117 3005446 23. Call Direct Local on 07500 01236 * info@DirectLocalOnline.com * www.DirectLocalOnline.com

The Fab-ewe-lous

Baker Brothers!

Hobbs House Bakery in Chipping Sodbury has risen to the ‘Shaun in the City’ challenge: baking official ‘Shaun in the City’ biscuits to raise funds for The Grand Appeal, the Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity.

The flock of 70 ‘Shaun in the City’ sculptures are grazing all over Bristol until 31 August, before being auctioned for The Grand Appeal this autumn.

The family-run bakers have teamed up with the charity for the duration of the trail to produce the baa-rilliant biscuits, iced to look just like the superstar sheep.

Hobbs House Bakery is run by Tom and Henry Herbert, better known as TV’s ‘Fabulous Baker Brothers’, who helped to show off their Shaunshaped bakes.

The biscuits are available to purchase in boxes of 16 and will be for sale in locations all over the city, including The Grand Appeal shop on Upper Maudlin Street, opposite the Children’s Hospital, and the official ‘Shaun in the City’ shop at The Mall at Cribbs Causeway. A donation is made to The Grand Appeal from every biscuit sold.

Tom Herbert, baker at Hobbs House Bakery, said, “We are delighted to be raising funds for The Grand Appeal by baking the official ‘Shaun in the City’ biscuits! Each biscuit is made by hand and takes our expert biscuit team six different stages to complete, from rolling and cutting the dough, to piping the icing and finally using a fork to create his nostrils!

For more information.

www.hobbshousebakery.co.uk For more information about Shaun in the City, visit

www.shauninthecity.org.uk.

“Local businesses and organisations have already been flocking to order their boxes, and we are currently baking around 1000 biscuits a day.

“We will be selling the biscuits all over Bristol and hope that lots of Shaun fans will buy a biscuit or order a box, to help The Grand Appeal raise even more money for Bristol Children’s Hospital this summer.

It is very rewarding to know that every biscuit we bake will support sick children in hospital.”

Nicola Masters, director, The Grand Appeal, said, “With his cheeky expression and iced white wool, we think Hobbs House Bakery’s ‘Shaun in the City’ biscuits will be a real hit with Shaun-hunters looking for a sweet treat while out on the trail.

“Ordering a box is a great way to get involved with ‘Shaun in the City’. The biscuits make great prizes if you are holding a Shaun-spotting competition or Shaun-themed event, and would be a tasty addition to any ‘Shaun in the City’ bake sale. Even if you just buy a couple to enjoy while taking a tea break from the trail, each biscuit sold will help us to continue to raise vital funds to support Bristol Children’s Hospital.”

The biscuits are available to purchase in boxes of 16, priced at £24. To find out more or place your order, contact : Shauninthecity@hobbshousebakery.co.uk or call 01454 321629.

Established in the Cotswolds in the 1920s, Hobbs House Bakery is home to five generations of baking experience. The expert team produce an exceptional range of high quality award-winning breads, pastries and confectionery at its bakery in Chipping Sodbury, where it also runs a popular cookery school.

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Getting the ‘Feel Good’ Factor Without Spending A Penny A volunteer for Guide Dogs tells us: “Volunteering has been such a positive and uplifting experience and I’d thoroughly recommend it”.

If you have ever done a good deed or supported a charity then you will know that positive feeling you get from doing something good.

The Guide Dogs charity is looking for people who can spare just one hour of their time to help out at a local event or collection and they are guaranteeing that you will get a warm welcome and will benefit from that ‘feel good’ factor you get from volunteering.

Here’s what some of the Guide Dogs volunteers told us: “At first I thought it was about the dogs, but having volunteered I realise it's more than that.”

“There’s that great feeling you get inside when you’ve done something really good.” “…now that I'm a puppy walker I really feel I'm part of something special.”

Over the coming months there are a wide range of events and activities for people to get involved in across our communities, so there is bound to be something of interest to you.

If you would like to find out more, please contact

Sarah on 07785 433266 or sarah.knox@guidedogs.org.uk 25. Call Direct Local on 07500 017236 * info@DirectLocalOnline.com * www.DirectLocalOnline com

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