Lisburn
Spring 2017
W0IMN&S
£5 rd Giftca ealth H e f i 4L A Vac r your Pet fo Plan side for details see in
your community / your life / your business
Back Into The Garden
Tips on getting it into shape
The Final Countdown
Coping with the pressure of exams
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CONTENTS: 15. HAYFEVER
24.
Hay fever season is almost upon us again, causing misery to thousands in the province. Estimates suggest that 20% of the population can be affected by this each year.
18. GARDENING
Spring is almost here and many of you will be getting into the garden for the first time this year. We thought it would be good to share a few tips to help you make your garden one to be proud of.
15. 18.
24. COUNTDOWN As you read this, GCSE and A Level students are entering that final stage of readiness, working feverishly to finish off the syllabus and polishing up exam technique. We need to ‘feel their pain’, yet still offer encouragement.
30. MODDING 30.
Cars can be modified to improve performance or style. If you’re considering modifying your car or you have purchased a modified car, you need to know if they are within the law or constitute an offence.
NOTE FROM THE EDITOR Welcome to our Spring issue and we hope you are feeling the optimism of spring now that it is well and truly here. The days are getting longer and the spring buds have bloomed. It’s not that we hibernate in this country over winter but we naturally spend more time inside than out. If that describes you there is plenty in this issue to encourage you to venture outdoors. For the gardener there are lots of ideas to encourage you back into the garden, and if you don’t fancy tackling the lawn yourself, why not give Greenthumb (pg 20-21) a ring. Speaking from personal experience, they will have your lawn, Disclaimer
weed free and looking great in time for summer. Unfortunately for some, this time of year brings misery in the form of Hay Fever, but don’t despair as there is advice available (pg 15) and many suffers can benefit from the treatments available. Hopefully you will notice something different about this issue of In-touch. Maybe you’ll just think there are lots of these funny looking codes all over the place when actually they are there for your enjoyment. It’s called Augmented Reading, which means that you not only read the pages of this magazine but you can also view ‘augmented content’ via
our In-touch AR App on your mobile phone. Please have a look at the page opposite for guidance on how to install In-touch AR onto your phone. We do hope you enjoy this spring issue along with this brilliant new way of reading Lisburn In-touch. We would love to hear of your experience using it.
Contact: Susan Gilchrist t: 028 9332 4511 e: susan@newtownabbeyintouch.com w: www.newtownabbeyintouch.com
Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accidents or any other cause. Newtownabbey In-touch does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without prior permission of the publisher.
FAMILY LIFE
Singing and Dementia When Simon McDermott rang Alzheimer’s Society’s National Dementia Helpline last year, he didn’t expect to be advised to get his father Teddy, who has dementia, to sing. But sing they did, and it has changed both their lives and raised more than £100,000 for Alzheimer’s Society, the UK’s leading dementia charity as the duo’s very own Carpool Karaoke shot to fame online worldwide and Teddy became internationally known as ‘The Songaminute Man’. Now the 80-year-old former Butlin’s Redcoat has been signed up by the prestigious Decca Records label, and released a single of ‘You Make Me Feel So Young’. Not everyone with dementia is destined for a life of stardom, but singing does have extraordinary benefits, and Alzheimer’s Society is inviting people with dementia and their carers, family and friends to join their Singing for the Brain group in Lisburn.
“For a person with dementia memories can become increasingly hard to retrieve, however music can sometimes help recall due to the preserved memory for song and music in the brain,” Bernadine McCrory, Northern
Ireland Director of Alzheimer’s Society said.
“There are many ways to enjoy music, including listening, singing, following the rhythm and moving to the music. Evidence suggests that music can improve someone’s mood, behaviour and wellbeing. Favourite songs or pieces of music can also be powerful prompts for reminiscence,” she said. “Many people with dementia are still able to enjoy music and to sing even when they are starting to lose their language abilities. We know that singing can help people
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with dementia communicate, improve their mood, and leave them feeling good about themselves. Singing for the Brain groups can provide a way for people with dementia, along with their carers, to express themselves and socialise with others in a fun and mutually supportive environment,” Bernadine said. Singing for the Brain groups are music sessions for people with dementia and their carers. Specially trained facilitators deliver a varied programme of vocal, rhythmic and gentle physical exercise and dance along with songs from different eras and styles. There are currently about 328 Singing For The Brain services in the UK, including six in Northern Ireland. More than 20,000 people in N.I. live with dementia, which brings about the gradual loss of ability to think, learn, reason, communicate and carry out daily activities. Singing for the Brain provides a way for people with dementia, along with their carers, to express themselves and interact creatively with others. Even when many memories are hard to retrieve, music can sometimes still be recalled and this can bring a person with dementia back to a loved one – if only for a short while. By promoting communication through singing, these sessions can help with articulation, concentration, focus and motivation. Singing for the Brain is also designed to promote confidence and reduce social isolation by providing a relaxed and friendly network of support for people with dementia and their carers. The groups may not propel members to international stardom, but local groups do have the opportunity to sing on stage in St Anne’s Cathedral at Alzheimer’s Society’s annual Carols by Candlelight and at other events throughout the year.
Sing with us!
Join us at one of our fun, stimulating Singing for the Brain sessions for people living with dementia and their carers Location: Trinity Community Initiatives (Trinity Methodist Church), Ballymacoss Avenue, Lisburn, BT28 2GU Time: Monday, 2.30pm-4.00pm, fortnightly To find out more information about the group, please contact Seonaid Murray, Singing for the Brain Facilitator M: 07974 678 280 E: belfast@alzheimers.org.uk www.alzheimers.org.uk Registered charity no. 296645
FAMILY LIFE
Stepping into Paid Employment
Stephen Gillespie: Is also a trainee at Pink Elephant Cards creating bespoke wedding stationery People with learning difficulties including Autism Spectrum Disorder who want to enter the world of work are being targeted through a new campaign to make a move towards getting paid employment. A total of 40,177 NI people were reported to have a learning difficulty, an intellectual difficulty, or a social or behavioural difficulty in the 2011 census, this figure accounts for 2.22 per cent of the NI resident population. Currently there are 30,000 people affected by Autism in NI With this rate increasing a new campaign has been launched by award winning charitable organisation, Stepping Stones NI. The campaign aims to encourage more people with a learning difficulty including Autism to think about paid employment as a viable option to realising their future potential. The campaign aims to highlight that paid employment is an option for people with a learning difficulty. The “We See You In Employment” message highlights Stepping Stones NI’s belief that with the right support people with a learning difficulty and Autism can secure paid employment and stay in employment. Paula Jennings, Chief Officer of Stepping Stones NI, comments, “Our model of support has been tried and tested and we support hundreds of people each year to realise their full potential. We don’t see the barriers, we see the potential in everyone. We see the benefit of paid employment and we understand the challenges but it is our job to provide the opportunity and support people with even the most complex of needs to secure a job and stay in a job”. Stepping Stones NI have been operating for almost 20 years and have links to over four hundred employers. They operate six social enterprises which include
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four cafes, a wedding stationery business and a guild commended picture framing business. These businesses serve as a realistic training platform for people with learning difficulties with all profits reinvested to support their work. The organisation is part funded through the Northern Ireland European Social Fund Programme 2014 – 2020 and the Department for the Economy. 32 year old Stephen Gillespie from Lisburn has been supported by Stepping Stones under the Workable programme to secure a paid job that he loves at Danske Bank. Stephen was diagnosed at an early age with moderate Autism and associated learning difficulties. His mother Maureen says: “There was a point when I did not believe that Stephen had the ability to get a job due to his Autism and learning difficulties but through the support of Stepping Stones, Stephen has developed his confidence, social skills and abilities to get a job he wanted. The Stepping Stones team helped Stephen overcome barriers and supported him through every stage of securing a permanent paid job at Danske Bank”. Management at Danske Bank regard Stephen as a real asset to their team. Stephen’s Manager, Gerard McStravick says “We are supportive of diversity in the workplace and worked closely with the Stepping Stones NI team to make reasonable adjustments so that Stephen could work to his fullest potential. Stephen is a real asset to our team and we would encourage other employers to link with Stepping Stones NI to provide equal opportunities for people with learning difficulties to get paid employment and stay in employment”. Stephen says “I would not have secured my job at Danske without the support of Stepping Stones NI. My employment officer worked with me to submit an application and coach me through interview. Entering the world of work with a learning difficulty is a daunting experience. Stepping Stones NI believed in me and helped me build the confidence and skills to get a paid job. The team supported me in the workplace and are always there if I need them. I would encourage anyone with a learning difficulty to contact Stepping Stones NI if they are thinking about paid employment. I know they won’t be disappointed”.
FAMILY LIFE
Vaccination So Much More Than an Injection… Vaccines are one of the most common procedures we carry out here at Vets4Pets, Longstone. It’s quick and simple and what’s more, at the time of vaccine your pet will receive a full health check examination by our vets. This is an opportunity for us to carefully assess your pet and make sure there are no underlying problems that might affect their quality of life.
parks and public fields, or when meeting and socialising with other dogs. This vaccine is quick and easy to administer as drops into nose.
As a general rule we recommend your pet is vaccinated every year. However all pets differ slightly, so we might not always vaccinate your pet for all diseases every year. There are a number of things that can influence this including health status, breed, age, lifestyle, environment and travel habits. We will work with you to determine which vaccines are appropriate to keep your pet happy and healthy. Human studies have shown when vaccination levels drop below 70% diseases can re-emerge: Wales had a measles outbreak in 2012 due to poor vaccination uptake. You could almost suggest that if the house either side of you keep up their vaccinations, you have a buffer, but its better to be part of the solution. Worried about boosters? If you are worried about giving your dog a booster each year, we are able to offer a special Vac Check using Titre Testing. By taking a small blood sample, we can assess your dog’s antibody level against core diseases. The results can then help us decide whether or not to apply the booster vaccination. This blood test is a great way of ensuring we only vaccinate when we need to. If you do decide to have a Vac Check, just bear in mind that not all kennels or insurance companies accept this as proof of protection. What is a vaccine? A vaccine is usually given by an injection under the skin. As with humans, these vaccines contain small controlled quantities of the virus and are designed to stimulate an immune response that will protect your pet against the disease. Does my dog need a Kennel Cough Vaccine? This isn’t just for dogs that stay in kennels! Another name for Kennel Cough is Infectious Bronchitis – this is a nasty respiratory infection that dogs can pick up when drinking from communal water bowls, walking and playing in local
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For more information about vaccinations, pop in or give us a call. We can also talk to you about our special Vac4Life health plan. For a one off-payment of just £99, your cat, dog or rabbit can benefit from booster vaccinations for life, as well as an annual vet health check, and an additional health check with a veterinary nurse 6 months after the booster. We look forward to welcoming you and your pet at Vets4Pets, Lisburn Longstone.
168 Longstone Street | 028 9262 8080
Lisburn Longstone
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FAMILY LIFE
Divis Ridge Trail View Belfast’s most spectacular viewpoint from which the city skyline, Scotland and The Isle of Man are visible. The Ridge Trail situated on Divis and the Black Mountain in the Belfast Hills offers one of the best views in Belfast on land previously inaccessible to the public.
including; Stormont, Samson and Goliath, Belfast City Hall, Titanic Belfast, Scrabbo Tower and the Mourne Mountains to name a few. See how many you can point out! Continue to follow the gravel path as it winds its way along the ridge towards Black Hill. The path leaves the ridge before reaching Black Hill and continues to weave its way back
The highest peak nestled in the heart of the Belfast Hills, Divis sits at 276m/ 1,526ft. However, the best bit about the trail is that you get to enjoy the amazing views from the top without having to climb much height.
towards the Long Barn, Crossing a couple of stiles and the Collin River along the way. Turn left when you reach the access road to return to the Long Barn.
The trail is 4.2miles and takes in neighbouring Black Mountain on relatively flat tarmac, boardwalk and gravel pathways making it perfect for anyone with a moderate level of fitness. From the car park at the Long Barn (Note National Trust car park pricing applies for this car park however there is an alternative free car park on Divis Rd 0.5 miles from the Long Barn which can also be used by walkers), follow the tarmac path towards the Divis transmitter masts. Bear right onto a section of boardwalk, shortly before reaching the lower mast. Once the boardwalk ends, turn right onto the gravel path, leading towards the summit of Black Mountain, which is marked by a trig point (A concrete pillar originally erected by the Ordnance Survey for the purposes of surveying the land). From here you can experience exhilarating views across the city and beyond. Many famous landmarks can be seen from the summit
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Once your walk is completed enjoy a cuppa and sweet treat at the coffee shop at the barn. Should you want to explore Divis and the Black Mountain further, 3 other walking trails are available rnaging from 0.9 to 4 miles with the Summit Trail taking you to the summit of Divis Mountain and the highest point in Belfast. For more information including downloadable maps and route descriptions for the walk trails at Divis and the Black Mountain and indeed hundreds of other walking routes across Northern Ireland visit www.walkni.com Distance: 4.2 miles circular
Nearest town to start: Hannahstown, Belfast Facilities: Mobility parking spaces, coffee shop and toilets Terrain: This walk takes place on gravel paths and stone paving with some rough sections.
For more walks in Co. Antrim go to www.walkni.com
FAMILY LIFE
What’s On April/May Singing For The Brain
Each day from: 09:30am - 6pm (8pm on Thursday)
Trinity Methodist Church Monday 2.30pm - 4pm (fortnightly)
Adult (18+) Youth (12-18) Senior (65+) Child (5 - 11) Ages 4 & Under
Join us at one of our fun, stimulating, Singing for the Brain sessions for people living with dementia and their carers. To find out more information about the group, please contact Seonaid Murray
£15.00 £9.00 £11.00 £2.00 FREE
Balmoral Park, Lisburn, BT27 5RF
M: 07974 678 280 E: belfast@alzheimers.org.uk
Citizens Advice Lisburn
Dubshed
Bridge Community Centre 50 Railway Street, Lisburn, BT28 1XP
Saturday 8th - Sunday 9th April, 12pm - 6pm
028 9266 2251
Northern Ireland’s largest car show is back with over 700 cars in attendance. With almost 10,000 people through the gates last year, it means this is a spectacle not to be missed!
We provide a free quality advice service. Members of the public come to us with a wide range of issues, many of which are very complex. All clients are afforded the time required to deal with their issue fully and effectively.
Online Advance Ticket: £12.95 On The Door: £15.00 Under 12: FREE
MONEY ADVICE SERVICE We provide a comprehensive free Money Advice Service for anyone struggling to deal with debt.
Balmoral Park, Lisburn, BT27 5RF www.dubshed.com
In person advice is by appointment only.
Spring At The Ballance House Saturday 6th May, 1pm - 4.00pm Suggested entrance donation £3 adults, under 14’s £1 and under 5’s free
To make an appointment telephone 028 9266 2251 between 9.00am and 5.00pm. You can also drop in to the bureau to book an appointment from 9.00am to 5.00pm
The Ballance House, Glenavy, BT29 4NY www.theballancehouse.com
OUTREACH SERVICES Monday Seymour Hill Community Association: 9.30am to 12.30pm Hillhall Community Resource Centre: 1.30pm - 4.30pm Tuesday Hillsborough Health Centre: 9.30am to 12.30pm Wednesday Derriaghy Village Community Centre: 9.30am - 12.30pm Elner Community Centre: 10.00am - 2.00pm Trinity Methodist Church: 1.30pm to 4.30pm Thursday Castlereagh: 10.00am - 2.00pm Stoneyford Church of Ireland: 1.30pm - 4.30pm Friday Lagan View Enterprise Centre: Drop in service: 9.30am to 12.30pm. Appointment only: 1.30pm to 3.30pm
Balmoral Show
Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings
Join us to discover some New Zealand influences – gumboot-throwing competition, treasure hunt, sausage sizzle and NZ favourites in the Tea Barn. Guided tours of the house will be available, market stalls, craft activities and outdoor games for the children. RSPB will be doing a bird-house making workshop and Lough Moss Leisure Centre will be running Boccia sessions (a great fun precision ball sport) so come along and have a go! All proceeds and donations go towards the upkeep of the property.
Wednesday 10th May - Saturday 13th May Ireland’s largest agri-food event, the Balmoral Show, is back at Eikon and Balmoral Park and this time it will be for FOUR DAYS! The Show will be bigger and better than ever before with fantastic arena and livestock attractions including fun for all the family.
Wednesday: 8pm Friday: 8pm
ALL meetings are ‘Closed’ meetings and restricted to alcoholics and those who have a desire to stop drinking. The Bridge Community Centre: 50 Railway Street, Lisburn
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FAMILY LIFE
Becoming a Befriender with the Alzheimer’s Society We asked one of our volunteers to tell us about being a Befriender with the Alzheimer’s Society… Apprehensive, anxious, uncertain; all emotions I felt on my first visit as a ‘befriender’! “What have I let myself in for?” I thought. But, by the end of the visit, all those feelings had disappeared and now, many months later, I am able to say with confidence that they have never resurfaced. My introduction to ‘befriending’ began when I read an Alzheimer’s Society leaflet advertising volunteering. I then arranged an informal chat with the local Befriending Manager employed by the Society, who discussed with me what would be involved; time, matching of person with dementia to volunteer, location of visit, etc. Then, after some consideration and taking account of my present commitments, I took the decision to become a volunteer befriender knowing that it was not going to be something I could dip in or out of, but something to which I could give complete commitment. When I started visiting, I kept an open mind and had no preconceived ideas as to how I or my ‘friend’ might be. As my weekly visits of approximately two hours each progressed, I became more aware of her likes, dislikes and personal history. I recognised early on the importance of listening to what was and was not being said during my visit, and of being aware of any physical or emotional changes in my friend. I became aware also of the importance of compassion, understanding and patience as our friendship developed. Factors such as weather, health, and her mood on the day determine what happens on each visit. Typically we go out in my car to a local restaurant for coffee and chat. These visits have proved to be extremely satisfying as they allow her to experience the ‘outside world’ and appreciate the scenery on our journeys. As my friend had no specific interests or hobbies that I
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felt I could rekindle, I decided to introduce her to book reading. This was a completely new concept for her but one that has turned out to be particularly rewarding. Each week, time and situation permitting, and especially if we do not go out I read to her. She shows great interest in the characters and the story line, adding in her own comments at various points, especially when a word or sentence prompts a particular memory for her! I understood from the outset that an important aspect of befriending is maintaining a respectful distance between the befriender and the person they are visiting. I have also become aware of the importance of showing concern and interest when particular personal issues are raised and how to be noncommittal in my responses. I constantly remind myself that I am a befriender and not a family member. One of the advantages of volunteering as a befriender is that there is an excellent support system in place. Any concerns I might have after a visit I can immediately pass to my organiser who then follows them up and gets back to me. Regular meetings are held in the local Alzheimer’s Society offices for all volunteers, male and female, where we can discuss our concerns and specific experiences and any forthcoming events which may be of interest to the people we visit. I can honestly say I look forward each week to making my visit. Our friendship has deepened over time whilst still maintaining a level of professionalism. I consider it a great personal privilege to be a welcome visitor to her home. I have no hesitation in stating that being a befriender has been, quite simply, a most rewarding experience. Like to know more about being a Befriender for the Alzheimer’s Society? Please call Martin Towers
028 9756 4681
Are you interested in volunteering with people with dementia?
Befriending Volunteers Our Befriending volunteers offer companionship and support to individuals in the early stages of dementia. The aim of the service is to promote social inclusion, enabling people living with dementia to maintain and develop their hobbies and interests in a supportive way for a few hours each week. We provide induction, out of pocket expenses, ongoing training and support for all volunteers. You will be fully supported in your role. If you are caring, reliable and passionate about making a real difference to people living with dementia, then we would love to hear from you.
For more information about becoming a volunteer, information about dementia and local services please contact
The Down and Lisburn office on 028 9756 4681 or email
downandlisburn@alzheimers.org.uk National Dementia Helpline 0300 222 11 22 9am- 8pm Monday-Wednesday 9am-5pm Thursday and Friday 10am-4pm Saturday and Sunday
www.alzheimers.org.uk Registered charity no. 296645
HEALTHY LIVING
Running Tips for Beginners With the lighter nights and better weather hopefully returning, many of you will be inclined to dust down the trainers and hit the roads for some outdoor exercise. Running is a favourite, it’s free, you can do it anywhere, and it burns more calories than any other mainstream exercise. Regular running can reduce your risk of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke. It can also boost your mood and keep your weight under control.
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This guide is designed to make running a safe and enjoyable experience for beginners, and to provide you with tips on how to stay motivated. Before you start: If you feel out of shape, or you’re recovering from injury or worried about an existing condition, see your GP before you start. If you’ve not been active for a while, you may want to build your fitness levels gently with our guide to walking for health before you move on to running. Starting out To avoid injury and enjoy the experience, it’s essential to ease yourself into running slowly and increase your pace and distance gradually over several outings. Start each run with a gentle warm-up of at least five minutes. This can include quick walking, marching on the spot, knee lifts, side stepping and climbing stairs. Start walking for an amount of time that feels comfortable (anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes). Once you can walk for 30 minutes easily, include some running intervals of one to two minutes into your walking at a speed that feels comfortable. As time goes on, make the running intervals longer, until you’re running for 30 minutes continuously. Give yourself a few minutes to cool down (to bring your heartbeat back to normal) after each run by walking, followed by gently stretching your leg muscles. Research a post-run stretch routine. Regular running for beginners means getting out at least twice a week. Your running will improve as your body adapts to the consistent training stimulus. It’s better to run twice a week, every week, than to run half a dozen times one week and then do none for the next three weeks.
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Five ways to stay motivated. Set yourself a goal Whatever your level, setting goals is important for staying focused and motivated. Make your goals realistic to avoid becoming demoralised. Training for a race, such as a 5K, or a charity run is a good way to keep going. For more information on running events and training for a run, go to runbritain or parkrun. Run with a friend It really helps to have someone about the same level of ability as you to train with. You’ll encourage each other when you’re not so keen. You’ll feel you don’t want to let your jogging partner down, and this will help motivate you. Keep a diary Keep a diary of your runs. Note down each run, including your route, distance, time, weather conditions and how you felt. That way, whenever your motivation is flagging, you can look back and be encouraged by how much you’ve improved. Check out Real Buzz’s running blogs. Mix it up Keep your running interesting by adding variety. Running the same route to many times can become boring. Vary your distances and routes. Use Real Buzz’s route planner to find, record and share your favourite running routes. Join a club A running club is the perfect way to commit to running regularly. Most clubs have running groups for different levels, including beginners. Clubs are also a great way to find running partners to run with outside of club sessions.
Courtesy of www.nhs.uk/Livewell
HEALTHY LIVING
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Are You Affected by Hay Fever? Hay fever season is almost upon us again, causing misery to thousands in the province. Estimates suggest that 20% of the population can be affected by this each year.
During the pollen season, plants release pollen early in the morning. As the day gets warmer and more flowers open, pollen levels rise. On sunny days, the pollen count is highest in the early evening.
The “ syndrome “ consists of some or all of the following symptoms: runny nose, sneezing, itchy and watering eyes, an itchy throat and general congestion of the ear nose and throat.
Hay fever sufferers typically have a high level of a specific antibody called Immunoglobulin E. This is the same antibody shared by asthma and eczema sufferers and can be inherited through families.”
It is caused by an exaggerated allergic response to plant allergens, which are proteins that the body recognises as foreign tissue, and produces a substance called “Histamine”.
There’s currently no cure for hay fever with treatment being the only way to relieve symptoms to a certain extent. As with most allergies the best way of treating them is to avoid whatever triggers it, but obviously it is difficult to avoid pollen during the spring/summer months. There are a number of effective treatments available and it’s important to find out what works best for you.
Histamine causes all of the symptoms, and the main treatment of this condition is an “Antihistamine “ which is available as a tablet, a nasal spray or eye drops. Other treatments include steroids, which dramatically reduce the body’s response in severe cases, and Homoeopathy which treats this by exposing the body to tiny quantities of the allergen and by doing so “desensitising “ it to the allergen. There are different plant allergens which cause this misery to affected people in the spring, summer and Autumn, which all come under the banner of “hay fever” but are not all caused by Hay.
If anyone suspects that they are being affected by hay fever they could visit their community pharmacist for advice and be sold one of the many over the counter treatments available today. In more severe, persistent or resistant cases the family GP could provide some more help and advice, some stronger medications or even a referral to a specialist allergy clinic.
Grass, tree and other plant pollens cause this, and also the spores which are shed from trees in the Autumn. Sufferers experience hay fever symptoms if they have an allergic reaction to pollen, which is a fine powder, released by plants as part of their reproductive cycle. When these tiny particles come into contact with the cells that line the mouth, nose, eyes and throat, they irritate them and trigger an allergic reaction. Sufferers can have an allergy to: • Tree pollen, released during spring (late March to mid-May) • Grass pollen, released during the end of spring and beginning of summer (mid-May to July) • Weed pollen, released end of June to September The weather also plays a part in how much sufferers are affected by Hay Fever. The sun affects how much pollen is released by plants and the wind affects how much it is spread around. On humid and windy days, pollen spreads easily. On rainy days, pollen may be cleared from the air, causing pollen levels to fall.
By Dr. W.R, Brown Consultant GP Kingsbridge Private Hospital
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FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE
The Pre-Prep of The Wallace High School gives children fromWallace the The Pre-Prep of The age of 2School years and 10 months their High gives children all-important introduction to the from the age of 2 years and learning environment. Our morning 10 months their all-important session is for children in their introduction to the learning immediate Pre-School Year whilst our afternoon session caters for children environment. aged from 2 and 10 months. Themorning early years are critical in terms Our session is for children ofinsuccessful intellectual, social,Year their immediate Pre-School
whilst our afternoon session caters for children aged from 2 and 10 months.
emotional, physical, and creative The early years are critical terms development. At Wallace weinprovide of successful intellectual, social, a very effective introduction to those concepts, which and are central emotional, physical, creative to successful learning without development. subjecting the children to any feeling At Wallacelearning we provide a very effective of pressure; is presented to introduction to those concepts, which these young children in an enjoyable, are assimilated central to successful learning easily way. We recognise that allthe pupils without subjecting children to have talents and learning strive to is anydifferent feeling of pressure;
presented to these young children in an enjoyable, easily assimilated way.
THE WALLACE HIGH SCHOOL PRE-PREP & PREPARATORY DEPARTMENT
ensure that every has have an equal We recognise that pupil all pupils opportunity to find and develop thethat different talents and strive to ensure talents they possess. every pupil has an equal opportunity Our Pre-School Educator plans to find and develop the talents they the structure of activities carefully in possess. order to develop the children’s selfconfidence andEducator nurture an enjoyment Our Pre-School plans the of school.ofThe addition of social structure activities carefully in order experience and plenty of play provides to develop the children’s self-confidence a fully rounded educational foundation and nurture an enjoyment of school. during the vital early years. The addition ofhave socialthe experience andto: Children will opportunity plenty of play provides a fully rounded ; • explore the immediate environment • handle andfoundation use various materials; educational during the vital • appreciate early years. the value of books; • acquire communication and
Children will have the opportunity to: mathematical skills;
• gain enjoyment from the company of
• explore the immediate environment ; other children; • • begin handletoand use various materials; solve problems. • Our appreciate the value of shapes books; the experienced team • curriculum acquire communication and to suit children’s needs and mathematical skills; interests to ensure they move onto the • next gain enjoyment from the company of stage as confident, well-prepared other children; and highly motivated learners. have sizes – the • We begin to small solve class problems. sessions are capped at 16 pupils.
Our team shapesus the The experienced staff ratio of 1:8 enables to curriculum suit children’s and personalisetothe learning forneeds your child. interests to ensure they move onto the next stage as confident, well-prepared and highly motivated learners.
offer a purpose built facility WeWe have small class sizes – the sessions surrounded by playing fields, tennis are capped at 16 pupils. The staff ratio courts, nature areas and lots of open of 1:8 enables us to personalise the and planned playing space. learning for your child.
The Wallace High School Preparatory Department is verybuilt proud of its family We offer a purpose facility ethos, its reputation forfields, academic surrounded by playing tennis excellence, learning support, courts, nature areas and lots ofbreadth open of extra-curricular sporting, musical and planned playing space. and artistic provision and the quality of pastoral care. The Wallace High School Preparatory From P1-P7is the Department veryPreparatory proud of its family Department offers afor combination ethos, its reputation academic of small, non-composite classesbreadth as well excellence, learning support, as experienced and enthusiastic staff. of extra-curricular sporting, musical Emphasis is on developing the whole and artistic provision and the quality of child through an extensive range of pastoral care. activities including extra-curricular rugby, swimming, hockey, cricket and From theWe Preparatory Department musicP1-P7 tuition. offer a Breakfast Club offers a combination of small, and flexible After School Carenonuntil composite classes as well 5.45pm. Our school was as theexperienced focus of an and enthusiasticinstaff. is was on ETI Inspection 2013Emphasis in which it developing theGood’ wholeorchild through graded ‘Very ‘Outstanding’ in all areas. Arange Sustaining Improvement an extensive of extra-curricular Inspection in 2016 rugby, confirmed that: activities including swimming, “The Wallace Schooltuition. Preparatory hockey, cricketHigh and music We Department continues to flexible demonstrate offer a Breakfast Club and After a high level of capacity forOur sustained School Care until 5.45pm. school
was the focus of an ETI Inspection in 2013 in which it was graded ‘Very Good’
selfimprovement the interests of or ‘Outstanding’ in allinareas. A Sustaining the children” (ETI 2016). A school nurse Improvement Inspection in 2016 is onsite and our Pastoral Care and confirmed that: Safeguarding arrangements have been
“The Wallace High School deemed by ETI as ‘Outstanding’. Preparatory continues to Pupils haveDepartment access to Grammar demonstrate a high level sports of capacity school facilities including pitches, ICT suites, gymnasiums in for sustained self-improvement andinterests Home Economics rooms.(ETI The the of the children” Grammar School facilities are and currently 2016). A school nurse is onsite being enhanced further by a £3.2m our Pastoral Care and Safeguarding investment. have been deemed by ETI arrangements The Head of the Preparatory as ‘Outstanding’. Department, Mr R. Lawther, would be
most willing to show you around our Pupils have access to Grammar school thriving including school. sports pitches, facilities ICT suites, gymnasiums and Home To arrange a visit please contact Economics rooms. The Grammar School Mrs Agnew on 028 92672311 or facilities are currently being enhanced email eagnew@wallacehigh.net. further by a £3.2m investment. TheHead Wallace High School and The of the Preparatory PreparatoryMr Department Department, R. Lawther, would be 12a Clonevin Park, Lisburn most willing to show you around our www.wallaceprep.org thriving school. To arrange a visit please contact Mrs Agnew on 028 9267 2311 or email eagnew@wallacehigh.net
12a Clonevin Park, Lisburn www.wallaceprep.org
YOUR HOME
Getting Back Into The Garden Spring is almost here and I can’t wait to hear the birds’ singing, seeing the little lambs in the fields and plants coming to life again! Many of you will be getting into the garden for the first time this year so we thought it would be good to share a few tips to help you make the most of the longer days and look forward to a garden to be proud of.
March is also the month for PRUNING fruit trees such as apples, cherries and raspberries. In order to protect fruit trees from mites and borers it is necessary to spray the trees before they begin to bud out. Some of the organic INSECTICIDES that are recommended by horticultural experts include Rotenone, Pyrethrum, Neem, Entrust (spinosad), Surround (kaolin clay), insecticidal soaps and oils. Always remember to prune off and dispose of all dead, diseased, and broken parts of the trees. HOUSEPLANTS will also enjoy the longer days and you will start to see new growth in them. Start watering them a little more and also feed them with a good quality plant food such as organic liquid seaweed or soil extract fertilizer. Do not forget to repot your houseplants to improve their health.
Start working on the WEEDS while they are small and easily controlled by either pulling them by hand or spot spraying them with a herbicide. Visit your local garden centre to obtain a more specific weed killer as some cannot be used on areas you expect to plant seeds in. For PLANTING it is important to use soil that is well drained, therefore wait until the ground dries a little before starting to work on your beds. If the soil sticks to your fingers it may still be too wet to use. Remember raise beds provide better drainage for wet heavy soils and adding compost also promotes nutritious growth.
Do you know that St. Patrick’s Day is the traditional time to start planting peas and Irish potatoes? It is also the right time to plant rhubarb, asparagus, radishes, lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower and onions. A good quality SOIL is the foundation for good plant growth therefore testing the soil before planting, especially in a new area is essential. Purchase a soil test kit to check the acidity, soluble salts and other nutritional values in the soil.
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In April we begin to see the beautiful picture of SPRING COLOURS in our gardens. It is the month for flowers such as redbuds, magnolias, daphnes, pussywillow and spirea to begin to bloom! Although pansies, for example, look fragile they can withstand the freezing temperatures and can therefore be planted outdoors in containers or in the garden at this time. However if they have been in a greenhouse they should be kept outdoors for a while prior to planting in the garden. April is also the time to prune and feed most evergreen plants before their growth in mid-spring, however those that are about to flower can be left until flowering has finished, eg. Camellia, Rhododendron, Daphne and Buxus. After pruning it is worth applying a general purpose fertiliser that will provide the plants with good nutrients for growth and yields. MULCHING is also recommended to improve the soil around plants whilst giving your garden a neat and tidy appearance. One to three inches of mulch helps to prevent weeds and diseases. It also keeps the moisture in the garden and maintains the temperature. Use biodegradable mulches such as garden compost, leaves, wood chippings and manure or non-biodegradable such as sea shells, tumbled glass, or even crushed CDs. The rule of thumb is one to three inches of mulch a few inches from the plant stems to prevent roots from rotting. Copyright: Newtownabbey In-touch
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YOUR HOME
Spring Your Lawn Back to Life!
Giving your house a spring clean is a popular activity this time of year and your garden deserves the same attention if you want it to look its best. When we do venture back outside, we are often faced with overgrown shrubbery and under-loved lawns, and bringing your garden back to life can seem like a daunting task. But it doesn’t have to be! As the temperatures gets milder, now is the perfect time to give your lawn some much needed TLC to keep it healthy and weed free in the months ahead. Last year’s milder winter means that your lawn has probably continued growing all year and could have done with attention a little earlier than usual.
Before First things first, it pays to take care of any bare patches that may have appeared. The best way to deal with them is to carefully rake the patch and then sow some grass seeds mixed with a little top-soil. It’s important not to let the seeds dry out so keep them well watered and you should see some sprouts appearing within a few days. Grass needs as much direct sunlight as possible to stay healthy and green so raking up any dead leaves and twigs is another important job and can be a great way to get the kids involved and develop their ‘green thumbs’! As a rule of thumb, the first dry and sunny day in March is the ideal time to give your lawn its first cut of the year. Cutting the grass too short, too soon can attract unwanted weeds and moss so to avoid that happening, make sure you use the highest blade setting on your lawnmower.
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Special fertilisers are available to use at this time of year to give grass the essential nutrients it needs to grow strong and give it a vibrant colour; these seasonal treatments have been specially developed to work in cooler temperatures. Spring weather conditions tend to result in a flourish of young weeds, and selecting a treatment that includes a herbicide can help to control broad-leaf weeds such as daisies, clovers, dandelions and buttercups. Once you’ve carried out basic maintenance on your lawn, it pays to plan ahead to prevent all your hard work in the spring going to waste and to guarantee a beautiful lawn you can enjoy all summer long. Hotter weather and dry spells over the summer can lead to your lawn turning
After yellow and drying up. There are some really effective treatments out there that can help keep grass stay greener for longer, such as the Oasis treatment from local lawn care specialist GreenThumb. The surfactant attaches itself to the molecules in the soil to conserve any moisture, helping to reduce the amount of watering needed. Where soil type is mainly clay, which is common in the our area, the amount of water needed to keep grass green can be reduced by up to 80% so you can spend less time watering and more time enjoying your lawn. Give yourself another reason to be cheerful this spring and take care of your lawn now to enjoy the benefits of a luscious, green lawn all summer long. By Hugh and Harry Gaston (GreenThumb, South Antrim)
The first step to a beautiful lawn is to call GreenThumb
If you’ve been thinking about enjoying a great lawn this year green, lush and weed-free, why not contact us today and let us bring your lawn to life. We provide four seasonal treatments, as well as beneficial treatments to keep your lawn in tip-top condition - prices start from just £15*.
Simply call: 02890 357 850 or visit: greenthumb.co.uk
*Based on a lawn size of 40m²
YOUR HOME
Love Your Garden
By Luke North
In spite of colds, snuffles and flu-like symptoms doing the rounds, summer months are calling and before we know it, more pleasant weather will be here. (Note, I didn’t say ‘warmer’ weather will be here, because, in truth, who knows!)
relaxation! Or some of that garden chair and sofa combination? Rattan, I believe, is the correct term. It’s relatively weatherproof, can be made quite comfortable with scattered cushions, you can even put your feet up without too many disapproving looks!
But one thing we can say about ourselves in this part of the world, is, if nothing else, we are optimists! We constantly talk up the weather, we persistently look towards the heavens, we keep our fingers crossed, and we hope!
If that sounds quite revolutionary, what about a nice arbour? A slim roofing of clematis over your head. Or a south-facing pergola, resplendent in creeping honeysuckle with its uniquely delicious fragrant scents?
And to that end, let’s think ahead to May, June, July and August. Strictly speaking, our summer is June to August, but as we well know, May often turns out to be our summer! Any plans for our outdoor space? No? We’re always so grateful when the skies turn a lighter shade of blue, when the biting edge comes off the wind, when the sun does genuinely appear a little earlier and hang around a little longer. So what about giving thought to outdoor improvements?
Most of us have that faded plastic table and four chairs out the back. I often wonder what type of plastic they use in countries like Spain, when here in Northern Ireland, our new green patio table looks like something rescued from a skip after one summer season and four days of use! Wood is a nice alternative, and in environmental terms, probably looks better. Yes, it needs care; a lick of varnish every September, storage in a shed, but it’s probably more aesthetic on the eye. Be even more adventurous, get a joiner to price up an area for decking, wooden decking, on which your newly varnished table can rest. But there are other additions worthy of consideration .... A hammock? Slung between two trees, or from the washing line to the fence! Surely the ultimate in exterior
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A garden pond is also a favourite, though I would urge very careful consideration if you have children in the home, or likely to visit. There is an obvious danger there. Additional garden accessories for your enjoyment might include a brick-built BBQ? Your chance to experiment with bricks to match the house? And if your ‘pointing’ isn’t up to bricklayer standards, who’s to know?? A mini greenhouse is useful for whiling away the hours, as is a store-bought gazebo. What do you do in a gazebo? Well, that would be entirely up to yourself. If it stands as four ‘poles’ with a canvas cover, then what you do is open for all to se. But if it’s more the three walls affair, then it becomes your place of escape; a reading room, a sewing room, a private phone call room, a sun room, a snoozing room! And don’t forget our feathered friends. A bird feeder, perhaps a nesting box mounted on a tree. Other recent inventions for the 2017 garden include a wasp catcher! A peculiar shaped bottle, filled with a sugary substance, which allows pesky wasps to get in, but not out! Finally, if you’ve a good bit of space, a playhouse for the youngsters. Hours of entertainment for them while you get to know the hammock/rattan sofa/wasp catcher/ gazebo – delete where appropriate! A few ideas for you, all you have to do now is persuade Barra Best to use his best influence and coax the Gulf Stream into best behaviour from May onwards!
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FAMILY LIFE
The Final Countdown By Luke North
The last two weeks in August may seem a long way off, but for those in the 16 to 18 age bracket, it’s either a nightmare around the corner or a case of ‘bring it on’! If your teens are waiting for GCSE or A Level results, like it or not, those dates will slowly but surely come around. Years of classroom study, coupled with countless hours of patient revision will reveal their end-product by the close of summer. As you read this, in excess of 200 schools across the province are entering that final stage of readiness with their pupils. Some 30,000 pupils will be working feverishly to finish off the syllabus in GCSEs, and a similar number are polishing up exam technique and approach for A Levels. Some GCSE practicals will have begun, with many only a matter of weeks away. And are the youngsters ready? Are their teachers ready? Has the subject syllabus been covered? Could there possibly be any more past papers which they’ve not relentlessly tackled? We place a lot of trust in our hard-working teachers. We rely upon them to make sure the course and coursework have been taught. They are experts. They know their subject area. But can they instil enough confidence and knowledge into our off-spring to enable them to perform when sat at a square exam table on their own? We can but hope so. That said, there’s still an obligation on the young students to dig deep and help themselves. Revision is neither easy, nor straightforward. It has to be seen as the means to an end. If you want to hit a target, you must aim high and you must keep practising that aim. And parents need to show an interest, take an interest, lead with guidance. Encourage a pattern, a timetable. Strive to have a period of calm or quiet which lends itself to effective study. Create a working atmosphere in the home, or at least, in one part of it. Should this not always be possible, maybe the local library is worth considering for a two hour revision slot.
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Discourage evening study with the radio or television on. Focus and concentration are necessary. Set aside a time when those programmes that can’t be missed .......... may be viewed! Record for Saturday morning or Sunday afternoon viewing. Encourage sensible eating and refreshment. Regular rest and routine bedtime as well. Check with the big bookshops for past papers which your teen can have as his or her own. Many will also sell mark schemes, failing that, ask for them at school – but they shouldn’t be read through until the paper has been attempted. And don’t discard the idea of doing the same paper again, a week or two after it’s first been done. Is the BBC Bitesize site worth exploring? I think so. Lots of insightful topics, brain boosters and quick-check modules. For the visual learner, this site could be very apt. And at the risk of patronising, make sure there are enough pens, paper, mathematical devices, and good old-fashioned paper. Post-it notes or similar will be very useful for compiling bullet points and cue cards. Can we make the whole process more enjoyable? Want me to be honest? We need to work with our teens to let them see that it is all worthwhile. We need to ‘feel their pain’, yet still offer encouragement, not nagging. We need to be behind them, be on their side.
There are very few jobs where no qualification is required. Study now, or leave it till you’re in a job of some sort and realise you want more out of life. Then prepare yourself for a 5pm finish, head back out to the local college for a 7pm course running through till 9pm – perhaps three night nights a week. Or tell them to study now. Get it over with now. It really is worth it!
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COMMUNITY
Useful Numbers Medical Centres Dr Cairns and Partners Switchboard Dr Ruddell and Partners Drs Hutchinson, Ryan & McGuinness Dr Wales and Partners Dr Forde & Dr Quinn Dr McFarland & Partners Dr Pattersons Lisburn Travel Clinic
Primary Schools 028 9260 3203 028 9266 5181 028 9260 3090 028 9260 3111 028 9266 6266 028 9260 3133 028 9260 3088 028 9260 3177 028 9250 1281
Pharmacies Medicare (Market Lane) Lowry’s Boots (Market Square) Boots (Market Lane) Boots (Bow Street) Hilden
028 9266 4665 028 9267 8430 028 9266 2118 028 9260 2666 028 9266 2193 028 9260 2666
Helplines Crimestoppers Translink NSPCC Age Concern National Debtline Samaritans Mindwise Volunteering Mindwise Community Bridge Building
0800 555 111 028 9066 6630 0808 800 5000 028 9032 5055 0808 808 4000 08457 90 90 90 028 9031 5060 075 0168 3439
Airports Belfast International City of Derry George Best City
028 9448 4848 028 7181 0784 028 9093 9093
Libraries Lisburn City Library Belfast Central
028 9263 3350 028 9050 9150
Funeral Directors Ronnie Thompson S.D. Brown Bobby Morrison
028 9260 7367 028 9267 7722 028 9266 0262
Activity Centres Brook Activity Centre Glenmore Activity Centre Grove Activity Centre Kilmakee Activity Centre
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028 9030 1848 028 9266 2830 028 9267 1131 028 9030 1545
Ballycarrickmaddy Primary Ballymacash Primary Ballymacward Primary Brownlee Primary Carr Primary Dunmurry Primary Downshire Primary Friends’ (preparatory) Harmony Hill Primary Killowen Primary Knockmore Primary Largymore Primary Fort Hill Primary Lisburn Central Primary Lower Ballinderry Primary Maghaberry Primary Meadow Bridge Moira Primary Oakwood Integrated Old Warren Primary Pond Park Primary Riverdale Primary Seymour Hill St Aloysius Primary St Colman’s Primary St Joseph’s Primary Tonagh Primary Wallace Preparatory Dept & Pre-Prep Unit
028 9264 8360 028 9266 4244 028 9264 8130 028 9266 5635 028 9263 8615 028 9030 1454 028 9268 0640 028 9266 2156 028 9266 4501 028 9266 2111 028 9266 2600 028 9266 3773 028 9266 4505 028 9266 5527 028 9265 1633 028 9261 1529 028 9262 2509 028 9261 1554 028 9030 9920 028 9267 9685 028 9267 6992 028 9263 4243 028 9030 1046 028 9266 2293 028 9260 1532 028 9267 4901 028 9266 4491 028 9267 2311
Secondary & Grammar Schools Fort Hill Integrated College Friends Laurelhill Community Coll Lisnagarvey High St Patrick’s High Wallace High Parkview Special School South Eastern Reg College
028 9266 3670 028 9266 2156 028 9260 7351 028 9266 2636 028 9266 4877 028 9267 2311 028 9260 1197 028 9267 7225
Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council Departments Main Reception/Switchboard Building Control Waste Management Irish Linen Ctr & Museum Island Arts Centre Lagan Valley Leisureplex Lisburn Tourist Information
028 9250 9250 028 9250 9372 028 9250 9453 028 9266 3377 028 9250 9509 028 9267 2121 028 9266 0038
Hospitals Lagan Valley Belfast City Royal Victoria
028 9266 5141 028 9032 9241 028 9024 0503
ENTERTAINMENT
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RECIPES
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Lamb and Lentil Curry with Kale By: Justine Pattison www.bbc.co.uk/food
Not many of us find it easy to cook Kale, let alone make it appetising! I remember when we went to visit my gran, she’d make stew and top it with boiled kale. Bless her but I don’t think at that time I appreciated the nutritional value of kale and only ate to please her! Now that I’m a lot older and think more about healthy living, I admire grans choice of food regardless of how she cooked it. Perhaps that’s why she lived to the grand old age of 98. This tasty recipe (with some well needed spices!) has been tried and tested by my young children and reminds me of my gran. (Susan Gilchrist)
Ingredients • 2 tbsp sunflower oil • 500g/1lb 2oz lamb neck fillets, trimmed, cut into 3cm/1¼in chunks • 2 onions, roughly chopped • 3 large garlic cloves, roughly chopped • 3 tbsp medium curry paste • 1 x 400g tin chopped tomatoes • 150g/5½oz dried split red lentils, rinsed and drained • 1 tsp salt, plus extra to season • 75g/2½oz curly kale (or mature spinach leaves), rinsed, shredded, any tough stalks discarded • Freshly ground black pepper • Steamed rice or naan bread, to serve
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Method 1. Heat the oil in a large, lidded, non-stick
saucepan over a medium heat. Add the lamb, onions and garlic and fry for 5-6 minutes until lightly browned, stirring regularly.
2. Add the curry paste and stir well to coat the lamb and onions.
3. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes,
stirring well, then add the tomatoes, lentils, 500ml/18fl oz water and salt.
4. Bring the mixture to the boil. Reduce the
heat until the mixture is simmering, then half-cover the pan with the lid and simmer very gently for 45-50 minutes, stirring regularly, until the lamb is very tender. (Add a little extra water if the curry is beginning to look dry before the lamb is tender.)
4. Season with salt and pepper, stir in the
kale and simmer for a further 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Serve in bowls with steamed rice or warm naan bread.
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MOTORING
Modding: What You Need to Know Cars can be modified to improve performance or style. If you’re considering modifying your car or you have purchased a modified car, you need to know if they are within the law or constitute an offence. Safety first Staying safe and legal is extremely important when modifying your car. It is essential to remember that too many modifications can affect the road handling of your car. It could also put you on the wrong side of the law and perhaps your insurance company. In-car entertainment Over the last few years there has been a huge increase in the amount of in-car entertainment devices that have become available for the motorist. However, it’s important to remember that as technology improves, the driver of the car still has the most important job to do - and that means they must not get distracted by in-car entertainment, such as watching a TV screen in the rear-view mirror, or rummaging around with an MP3 player. Moving images within view of the driver are illegal.
Lights or reflectors Headlamps must show a substantially white or yellow light. Rear position lamps must show a steady red light to the rear only. Tinting of rear reflectors which will reduce efficiency in darkness is not permitted Wheels and tyres Changes to wheels and tyres can significantly alter your car’s behaviour on the road. Important points to consider when fitting bigger wheels and tyres is to: • ensure they are approved by the vehicle manufacturer • provide adequate clearance between tyre and bodywork
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Suspension Modifications to the suspension which is the fitment of stiffer springs and lowering kits, should be only be done where the car’s road handling will not be compromised. This work must be carried out by a competent engineer. Brakes Modifications to your car’s brakes must at all times be carried out by a competent engineer. Before parting with your money, seek advice from independent suppliers and the vehicle manufacturer to ensure that the brakes you intend fitting are approved and will not involve any major modification of existing mounting points. Number plates must: • not misrepresent the characters and be spaced properly • be displayed in a prominent position • White to the front, yellow to the back Exhaust system All exhaust silencers must be maintained in a good and efficient working order. You will be breaking the law if you remove a silencer or make any modification that would
make that vehicle emit a noise louder than the original exhaust before it was modified. Insurance You must inform your insurance company of any modifications or changes to your vehicle, whether you carry them out yourself or if the mofifications were already installed when you purchased the vehicle. Some examples of this are any non-standard or upgraded wheels and fitment of spoilers, wings and body kits. www.nidirect.gov.uk
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