16 minute read
REFORMED PLASTICS
Enjoy your outdoor space year-round
As we drift into autumn you may think that means the end of enjoying your garden for the year, but at Reformed Plastics we believe outdoor spaces should be enjoyed year-round. The important factor to consider is whether your surfaces are safe to use in the everchanging weather conditions we face.
Our products are a great investment because they are much more durable and lower maintenance than their wooden counterparts, so will last over 50 years and save any future expense. Our decking is anti-slip, so you can feel safe walking around whatever the weather. Being made from recycled plastic our products do not splinter or absorb moisture like wood does, therefore it doesn’t rot and will last infinitely longer. About us All of our products are made from 100% recycled plastic. We manufacture products ourselves and then sell direct to the Domestic and Commercial sector. From concept to completion, our experienced and dedicated team based at our Parley workshop will make it their mission, for you to get the most out of your outdoor space for the best price possible!
Due to the ever increasing importance to recycle and protect the environment, the plastic used is recycled in the UK and is the perfect maintenance free alternative to wood. Our aims are to help rebuild the environment by utilising a commodity which people would otherwise just throw away, turning what most would consider rubbish into a valuable product for everybody.
How strong is it? It is extremely solid and strong being able to withstand stress levels of well over 10x that of traditional timber. It is heavy, durable, virtually indestructible and will not need to be replaced. In short, it is worry free!
Does it need to be cleaned? Our products only need to be cleaned after a spillage. The collection of airborne dirt is inevitable and we would recommend a simple spray-down with a hose or brush over every so often to ensure that your purchase is kept in the best condition.
Financial benefits Achieving value for money is a key driver for any purchasing decision. Although some recycled products have a greater up-front cost, their longevity and durability make them a much more cost-e ective and sustainable option over the long term.
Why are recycled plastic products di erent? Plastic lumber is the perfect alternative to anything that has ever needed maintaining. Plastic lumber can be cut with a regular saw, drilled or screwed into and routed as easily as wood. • Will not rot, split or splinter • Will not need painting or staining • Resistant to all weather and salt water • Resistant to chemicals and vandalism • Resistant to insects and bacteria • Anti-slip decking • Lasts for over 50 years
JOB OPPORTUNITY
We have an excellent opportunity for two hard-working, reliable and positive individuals seeking an immediate full-time position to join our respected and friendly family run business in a varied, day-based role, with added overtime earnings potential as a Product Fabricator!
Applicants’ must be 18+, bright, trustworthy, experienced using power tools, conscientious, able to develop new skills, physically fit, and work well as part of a small team as well as independently.
If you feel you have the aptitude to join us then call us on 01202 385751 and send your CV to enquiries@reformedplastics.co.uk.
• Quality Decking, Fencing & Furniture • 100% Recycled Plastic • Can be worked with like wood • Does not rot, split or splinter • Strong, Durable & Weather Resistant • Maintenance Free & lasts over 50 years! • Local, Friendly Family run business • Unique, High Quality Personal Service • Nationwide Delivery
FOR A FREE QUOTATION CALL 01202 385 751
www.reformedplastics.co.uk sales@reformedplastics.co.uk
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Remoulding the Past, Reshaping the Future, Rebuilding the Environment
MOTORING NEWS
Mark Slack tells us the latest news on all things motoring.
ROAD TEST: MG5 EV
MG was an iconic British car but in terms of new models is now an iconic British badge. Taken from the ashes of the Rover Group the Chinese car maker SAIC owns MG and produces a small range of cars and SUVs in petrol, hybrid and all-electric. The main models are SUVs but one of the newest is the MG5.
It’s an all-electric affair and an estate, which will surprise many as SUVs continue to find favour with a majority of buyers. With an affordable starting price of just £25,095, after the government grant, it offers lots of space, excellent equipment levels and a very good claimed range. It’s not the cheapest EV out there but in terms of space and equipment it offers a great package.
It’s a fairly basic design in terms of looks but because it’s fairly straightforward it has a very decent load area. Passenger space is also generous and there’s good seat adjustment so everyone should find a comfortable driving position. Standard fare includes navigation, cruise control, rear parking camera, keyless start, air conditioning, automatic lights and an 8-inch touchscreen. The higher trim level, there are just two, adds keyless entry, automatic wipers, heated seats, power mirrors and auto dimming rear view mirror and faux leather seating.
Power comes from a 52 kwh battery to provide a 214 mile range, or in pure city driving 276 miles. Energy regeneration is better in the urban environment because of the stop/ start nature of the driving. If you can find a 50 kw charger then your volts can charge up to 80% in 50 minutes. In reality our public charging network isn’t great and even if you find a fast charger there are so many factors that you might find it doesn’t charge at full rate. That said the MG charged commendably quickly during my tenure and provided enough volts to make it useable without range anxiety. As ever a home charger is a must to make an EV life practical.
On the road the MG5 isn’t a speed machine, as with all electric cars it has good pace, and the ride can get a little choppy on rougher surfaces. That said it’s a comfortable drive and an immensely practical, well equipped and rather likeable family and business holdall. If you’re looking to move to an EV on a budget then the MG5 could be the perfect start.
HYUNDAI’S NEW KONA N
Hyundai has announced the pricing and specification of its new KONA N, the first performance SUV in the N line-up, starting from £35,395.
The KONA N is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The transmission – upgraded over the standard – allows for three distinctive driving modes.
The exterior design features body-coloured elements with N-exclusive red accents. At the front, the front end is complemented by large air openings that fulfil the cooling needs of the N-tuned engine. The front splitter of the bumper has been increased in size and there’s a lowered ride-height, N-exclusive alloy wheels, red brake calipers and exclusive side sills in red.
At the rear, the large, double-wing roof spoiler dominates the view, alongside a triangular third brake light. KONA N is available uniquely in a newly developed colour, Sonic Blue, designed especially for the SUV while still referencing the nowiconic Hyundai N Performance Blue.
Convenient technologies like wireless device charging, parking sensors and reversing camera, smart key, adaptive cruise control and a KRELL 8-speaker premium audio system also come as standard.
ROAD TEST: VW T-ROC ACTIVE
It seems there is nothing but extremes in the colour palettes offered by car makers. Black, silver and grey at one end of the spectrum and luminescent greens, oranges and yellows at the other. For anything colourfully normal you can add a sometimes not insufficient amount of money to your options bill.
My VW T-Roc came in Turmeric Yellow, which while mobilising some people to a less than flattering verbal outage of comment raised others to Everest-like levels of praise. As I said, extremes. The T-Roc’s spicy metallic paintwork weighs in at £635 on the optional extras list.
Few would dispute how well the T-Roc drives, it has all the refined smoothness one has come to expect from anything bearing the VW badge. The range starts at £24,185 for the Active model with 110 hp, 3-cylinder, 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Auto dimming rear view mirror, height adjustable front seats, auto wipers and lights, powered and heated door mirrors, climate, heated seats, adaptive cruise, Bluetooth and navigation all come as standard. That’s a pretty impressive list! There’s even a cabriolet version and a high performance R model with 4-wheel-drive and 300 hp. The test model was the aforementioned Active specification but powered by a larger 4-cylinder, 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol unit (£27,340). Mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission the 150 hp engine provides a top speed of 127 mph and the benchmark 60 mph is passed in a worthy 8.6 seconds. In this boosted form the economy is still pretty decent being in the mid 40s mpg in combined driving.
There’s plenty of space for the front seat occupants, and those in the rear will not feel cheated on legroom either. However, I found it disappointing that there is so much hard interior plastic i.e. cheap that detracts from the usual perception of VW quality. This even extends to the cloth panels on the front doors being replaced by all plastic on the rear doors.
On the road the T-Roc handles well, even by crossover standards it can be hustled along twisting cross country roads quite happily. It feels a quality drive throughout with refinement and comfort. Smart and not overly large it’s a brilliant way of gaining that higher driving position without the drawbacks of a large SUV.
Although very subjective the T-Roc is one of the best looking crossovers with an understated style that makes it both classy and classless.
ROAD TEST: ALFA ROMEO GIULIA VELOCE – DUAL PERSONALITY!
So many people think that unless you have owned an Alfa Romeo you are a not a true petrol head, and you can kind of see their point. While classic Alfas probably still deserve their reputation for being temperamental, newer models have long left that aspect of ownership behind.
The trouble is reputations can take a long time to disappear and that’s a shame because it prevents many people from enjoying some cracking cars, and they don’t come anymore cracking than the Giulia.
The ‘standard’ Giulia range is by no means backward in accelerating forward, with even the least athletic engine producing 200hp and the most powerful 510 hp. The lead-in Sprint comes with an enviable list of standard equipment that includes active cruise control, dual-zone climate, navigation, Bi-Xenon headlights and all the other niceties one might expect at this level.
My mid-range Veloce outsprints the leadin model with a 0 to 62 mph time of 5.7 seconds and then on to a 149 mph maximum. The 280hp developed by the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine is quite a feat and when you think this isn’t the top of the range model, it shows how good the Giulia range is on the performance front. One would expect no less from Alfa Romeo!
At £42,595 the Alfa is up against some very stiff competition from arguably much more premium badges. However, the Alfa not only has history and heritage but an excellent standard equipment package, looks that turn heads for all the right reasons and a healthy dose of practicality. This is a four door saloon where you can carry four adults in space and comfort.
On the road the Giulia has a bit of a dual personality. It is quite happy to potter through urban streets, but show it a more open road and its inner performance demon is revealed. It’s not just acceleration and speed but all round performance. From the way it puts power down to the handling and steering. It is superbly accomplished. Gear changes through the 8-speed automatic box can be encouraged manually via some lovely aluminium paddles.
This is a well-honed, well-crafted and hugely entertaining car. It manages to combine so many positive attributes and is a delight to drive. Here in the UK many premium badge buyers will stay loyal to their usual fare, but the few who venture to Italy will not be disappointed.
HUNTSMAN ACCESSORY PACK LAUNCHED BY ISUZU
Isuzu have announced the launch of their new Huntsman Accessory Pack. With features that will be of interest to country professionals and enthusiasts, the pack is available on all D-Max Double Cab models.
The Huntsman Package specification includes: Aeroklas commercial canopy, bed draw system, under rail bed liner, towbar with 13-Pin electrics, side steps, tailgate locking kit, tailgate assist, rubber floor trays, 18” Alloy Wheels x 4, 18” Pirelli A/T Tyers x 4
Each detail of the Huntsman Package has been added with the country professional and enthusiast in mind. While the Bed Draw System provides easy organization, the towbar with 13-Pin electrics allows users to tow up to 3.5 tonnes safely with help from the D-Maxes sway-detection system on all 4x4 vehicles. The Huntsman Accessory Pack is purposeful in its design. Rubber Floor Trays ensure for easy cleaning, while the Aeroklas canopy makes storage safe and easy.
To aid convenience, the Huntsman Pack can be bought at the same time as purchasing the D-Max, allowing for customers to have the accessory pack fixed onto the vehicle upon receiving it. The Huntsman Pack is available to purchase for £5825 (excl. VAT) when purchased as a package with the D-Max.
Slim Chickens gets 5-stars from our toughest critics!
BH2 LEISURE • EXETER CRESCENT • BOURNEMOUTH • BH2 5DD
MAX
Popular US-born chicken brand opened a new restaurant in Bournemouth’s BH2 leisure complex recently and House & Lifestyle magazines director Ross and his family were invited down to check out what the fuss was all about!
Slims, as it is also known, is famous for its cooked-to-order premium chicken served in an American diner inspired setting complete with Blues music. Bournemouth is it’s 13th store in the UK to open, serving a wide selection of chicken sandwiches, tenders, wings, salads and wraps. Any of the orders come with a choice of 15 dipping sauces which include Slim’s signature sauce, blue cheese, honey BBQ, sriracha garlic and the fiery inferno.
JAMES
- MAX, AGE 9
MEILA
- JAMES, AGE 10
HARRISON
The restaurant also serves hand-spun shakes in flavours such as Oreo, popcorn and caramel, a Slims’ IPA and unique cocktails like the Corn Star Martini and Whiskey Smash.
Coverage of live sports will be shown inside including Premier League and Champions League action to a whole host of US sports for guests viewing leisure.
- HARRISON, AGE 8
“So does Slim Chicken make you slim Daddy?”
- MEILA, AGE 5
With all the hype surrounding the opening of Slims, we sent in our toughest critics, for their honest, unfiltered feedback. An unusual silence took over the table as they all devoured their meals and when they eventually found their voices there was nothing but positive comments and requests for ‘more please’!
If you are looking for some fresh and tasty chicken, served up with a large portion of Southern hospitality, this is the place for you!
www.slimchickens.co.uk
FUC Clothing, look great, feel great, donate!
FUC Clothing is a brand of sports, leisure and lifestyle attire created by Charlie Lowe, to help raise money to help those affected by cancer. Charlie tells us about her journey in creating this exciting new venture.
So how did FUC come about? I’m not sure exactly when. I know myself and a group of my close girls were all in a WhatsApp group we set up after I was diagnosed, which I named FUC.
It is bolshy and ballsy and in your face but then so is cancer. I know it doesn’t appeal to everyone, but most people I have come across who had either been diagnosed or were affected, that’s how they felt.
It’s the one thing most of us have in common, young, old, male, female, it doesn’t matter. It’s something so many of us have no control over so I suppose this has helped me regain a little control
FUCCLOTHING.COM in my life and also be able to help out those affected by it.
Where did the idea come from? The idea came to me one day and it started to evolve in my head, I knew what I wanted to do but wasn’t sure on the details. That’s where Gemma from Combat Dollies comes in. A friend of mine who owns a popular ladies sportsclothing range. I knew her leggings were great as I chose to wear them when training my self, and my brother and I had actually worked with her before on limited edition leggings and sports tops for our gym Wassmuffin Martial Arts Academy.
I discussed the idea with Gemma the main part of it being that a percentage of profits should go to cancer charity. Gemma was incredibly supportive and excited by the idea herself. She was, and still remains, a great help to me. What made you choose Wessex Cancer Trust as your charity? I chose the Wessex Cancer Trust as they do fantastic work for not only those diagnosed, but their families as well. They offer counselling, treatments, yoga, reki, massage, book club, drop in centre, just somewhere to chat or hide away if that’s what you need.
When I first found out about the centre they were only funded enough to open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10am till 4pm. Since being able to give them my first big cheque I found out they are now able to open four days a week thanks to donations like these. I would like to say a huge thank you to every fantastic person that’s purchased something from FUC. Please check out the Wessex Cancer Trust link so you can see how far your help goes and what a huge difference donations make.
FUC Clothing is my way of turning a negative into a positive. To see our full range of clothing take a look at our website www.fucclothing.com
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www.fucclothing.com CHARITY WEBSITE
www.wessexcancer.org.uk INSTAGRAM
@fucclothingbournemouth FACEBOOK
@fucclothingbournemouth
