Telford Lifestyle - Online Issue 47 - January & February 2021

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TELFORD LIFESTYLE HAPPY NEW YEAR

2021

HOUSE & HOME LOCAL NEWS

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What’s inside?...

Local News, Recipes, Fashion, Motoring, Education, Local Businesses & Services and Much, Much More...”

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ONLINE ISSUE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 www.telfordlifestyle.co.uk

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Not applicable to second homeowners or investor purchasers. We reserve the right to withdraw the incentive at any time without prior notice. ^Flooring is provided from our standard range unless otherwise specified. Photograph depicts a typical Bovis Home exterior/interior. Elevation may differ to that shown. Internal images may include optional upgrades at an additional cost. Price & availability correct at time of going to print/broadcast. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE ORANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. Ask our sales advisor for details. 5-star home rating based on the independent. Offer ends 31-12-2020.

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Contents

Issue 47 - January & February 2021 Online Edition 18 LOCAL NEWS Telford & Wrekin Council first Midland’s Local Authority to partner with Make UK Make UK is the leading UK membership organisation for British manufacturing.

20 RECIPES Pumpkin and potato gratin - For a tasty twist on a standard recipe for gratin potatoes, look no further...

26 FASHION TRENDS Winter fashion is all about the winter blues - Navy blue, to be precise. Why is Navy such a good all-rounder?

30 HOMESTYLE Love Your Outdoor Space Through the Winter Months and it Will Love You Back!

THE TEAM: Stephan Caear Director

Luke Smith

Sales Manager

Jasmine Bee

42 SEASONAL FLU HEALTH...

Here we have the best tips for keeping well this winter.

Editor

Syd Taylor

Editorial Contributor

48 MOTORING Motoring reviewer Syd Taylor test drives the new Volvo V60 D4 R-Design Pro

Eiln Caear

Editorial Contributor www.telfordlifestyle.co.uk

TO FIND OUT ABOUT ADVERTISING YOUR BUSINESS IN THE NEXT EDITION CALL:

01952 787786

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Editor’s Letter Issue 47 - January & February 2021 Online Edition With the end of one of the worst years in living memory, I think we are all ready to welcome the new year. I know that 2021 may still bring some uncertain times, with Brexit finally done and talk of the new variant of Covid-19, but there is a glimmer of hope with the roll-out of the vaccine - our first care home residents have started to get their jabs, and that will hopefully mean that in the not too distant future, we can all maybe look forward to getting back to our normal lives.

I think 2020 has given us all a new perspective on life. Some people have managed incredibly well and others have really struggled. I know that most of us have come to realise what is really important to us in life, and it isn’t possessions, but spending time with family and the simple things like a hug. I for one can’t wait to be able to do these things once again, but while there is still a risk - we have to stay strong and keep doing our bit to stay safe and protect our NHS heroes, who have worked all year to save lives.

Telford and Wrekin starts the new year in a new tier of coronavirus restrictions, which will again bring some difficulties to residents and businesses in the area. It is not an easy time for

small and large businesses alike, and we have all been trying to do our bit to support local shops and businesses, and I hope that it continues after the pandemic has finally come to an end.

The Council have supported thousands of families throughout the pandemic, and continues to work to help business with grants and support. The teams working across the council srvices have really stepped up, and done incredible work to ensure that services are running safely, and I want to thank each and every one of them for all of the work they done.

We have had to bring this edition to you digitally, due to the changing restrictions. We had no way of knowing where would be open to distribute printed copies. I hope that you still enjoy it.

We have everything crossed that the March & April editions will be back in print, but we will have to wait and see how things go.

Happy New Year from everyone here at Telford Lifestyle Magazine. We hope that this year brings a return to normality, but in the meantime we wish you health and happiness.

Cllr Eileen Callear

www.telfordlifestyle.co.uk INSTAGRAM: DEPublications12345 | FACEBOOK: DEPublicationsLimited | Twitter: @DEPublications

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At Martin Kaye, individually, our lawyers have over 20 years’ expertise in securing compensation for accident victims.

We deal with a wide variety of claims including accidents which occur in the work place, at school, in supermarkets, on pavements, on our roads and other public places.

We pride ourselves on the level of service we are able to offer. We are a small team of 3 qualified lawyers. From the outset you will be allocated your personal file handler, you will be given their e-mail address and direct dial telephone number. If that person is not available another member of the team will always be pleased to help.

We offer a first free no-obligation interview where we will discuss all the options available to you and answer any queries that you have. Most of our work is conducted on a no win no fee basis which means that if you do not succeed with the claim, you don’t have to pay anything.

The benefits of making a personal injury claim are many. The most obvious benefit is that you will receive money to compensate you for the injuries you have suffered. This type of compensation is called general damages.

In addition to this you can also be reimbursed for any out of pocket expenses you have incurred as a result of the accident. This type of compensation is called special damages.

You may be in need of rehabilitation to assist in your recovery, resulting in you being back on your feet more quickly and back to work sooner. The defendant insurers have a duty to consider funding the costs of any treatment you require, this can include anything from physiotherapy to major operations. The knock on effect

is the burden on your employer is eased and there is less of strain placed on the NHS. If you are unsure whether or not to make a personal injury claim you must remember that you deserve to be compensated for an accident that was not your fault.

Government reform is also pending for Personal Injury Law and people who have had a road traffic accidents will be adversely affected.

It’s important to start you claim as soon as possible. If you have had an accident and are considering making a claim, give Sarah a call on 0800 046 3777.

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Photo taken earlier this year from the distribution of breakfast parcels from Arleston Community Centre for children eligible for free school meals Telford & Wrekin Council has been supporting thousands of families across the borough under financial strain due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

LOCAL NEWS Council helps thousands of families...

Telford & Wrekin Council has been supporting thousands of families across the borough under financial strain due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

A wide range of schemes, from winter vouchers to breakfast parcels for children and financial support, have been helping families in need.

Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the Council has been working to support families across the borough.

As Christmas approaches, the Council is again appealing to residents to get in touch and find out how they can benefit from support schemes.

Over 8,200 families in the borough, who are registered for free school meals or early year pupil premium benefits, as well as care leavers, have recently received winter voucher support, worth £30 per child, to help them cope with their food costs over the two-week Christmas holiday.

Families and care leavers can use the voucher at a range of local supermarkets or shop online at a number of them.

The Council is also supporting children in care and care leavers in a number of ways during the festive season - such as with a Christmas gift allowance to their foster carers, referring them to Christmas Smile for support with gifts, providing Christmas jumpers, Christmas hampers and a Christmas dinner for 16/17 year olds, who live in independent housing with support and for care leavers, 18 and older, living alone) The winter vouchers and support to children in care and care leavers complement other help for families that the Council will continue to fund over the Christmas holidays.

This includes free breakfast boxes, containing breakfast items for five days for children on free school meals.

This scheme is being delivered in partnership with 11 community partners as well as with Town and Parish Councils across the borough, with almost 100,000 breakfasts provided since June this year.

It will continue throughout Christmas as well as into Easter 2021. Ahead of the Christmas holiday, a GoFundMe initiative, supported with donations from local people, has helped raise more than £3,500 to include added extras to the breakfast parcels, such as extra fruit and baked beans, ingredients to make pancakes or children’s activity packs.

To find out more about www.telford.gov.uk/breakfast

this

scheme,

go

to

Working in partnership with schools and children’s services, the Council has recently launched a new project to help keep the borough’s children warm this winter.

Schools across the borough have told the Council that increasingly more children are arriving at school without a winter coat and that this is not from personal choice, they just do not have one.

Schools and Children’s Services who are working with any children or families that this applies to, are currently being asked to make referrals directly to the Council.

Hundreds of coats will be delivered to families and the Council will be continuing this project in the New Year, to ensure as many children as possible benefit from it.

To deliver the coats to children who need them, the Council is working with Councillor Paul Watling, Councillor Kelly Middleton (who initiated the School Uniform project this year) and The Anstice Community Trust.

Throughout the pandemic, the Council has also been working closely with Telford Crisis Support.

So far this year, the service has provided over 80,000 meals to those in need in Telford and Wrekin and has achieved this also with the help of the Interfaith Council.

As Christmas 2020 is going to be like no other, Telford Crisis Support is prepared to help.

The Foodbank will be delivering Christmas Food Parcels across the borough and has recently launched a new Baby and Toddler Bank, providing, at no cost, muchneeded items (such as baby cloths, toiletries, nappies) to families in need.

To find out more about the service or to donate to support them – go to http://telfordcrisissupport.org.uk All throughout the pandemic, the Council’s Community Support Line (01952 382030, open weekdays 9am-5pm) has been helping residents unable to rely on family, friends or other support networks to meet their essential needs for their health and well-being, Together with its volunteers, the Council has been offering help with collecting prescriptions, food or just having a chat with those who are feeling particularly isolated during these challenging times.

So far, over 7,400 calls have been managed by the Council’s support line.

During the festive season, the Community Support line will close at 12pm on 24 December and re-open on the 4 January (9am – 5pm , Monday to Friday) Residents requiring support with food parcels, gas and electric and crisis applications are asked to call the Crisis Support Line , 01952 380400 – open on the 30 and 31 December, 9am – 5pm.

LOCAL NEWS To ensure residents can access the information they need on support schemes, the Council has created a dedicated website, grouping all the support projects together, at www.telford.gov.uk/coronavirus/support Additional support scheme for residents include Council Tax reduction, Test and Trace support payments, Emergency Welfare Assistance (for anyone unable to afford essentials, such as food or heating) or Telford Job Box (that has already supported over 1,000 work seekers during pandemic).

Councillor Paul Watling, Cabinet Member for Cooperative Communities, Engagement and Partnerships, said: “We continue to live in uncertain times and we know there are many residents and families in our borough that need our support now, more than ever.

“Through a range of services throughout the year as well as with support from many community partners and Town and Parish Councils, our Council has been helping many such families in our borough and will continue to do so next year as well, as we recognise many of them will continue to be impacted by the pandemic.

“Please visit www.telford.gov.uk/coronavirus/ support where you will find, in one place, a number of schemes you can access – if you are struggling financially or if you need support during the pandemic.”

11

Cllr David Wright, Cllr Rae Evans and James West from Morris Property

Building work will start on the Newport Innovation Park next month as a £4.32 million construction project gets under way.

LOCAL NEWS Construction work begins on Newport Innovation Park Building work will start on the Newport Innovation Park next month as a £4.32 million construction project gets under way.

Infrastructure work which started earlier this year has nowbeen completed unlocking 25 acres (10 hectares) of employment land within Newport.

Following a competitive tender, Shropshire company Morris Property has been chosen by Telford & Wrekin Council to build more than 41,000 sq ftof industrial units under Phase 1 of the project.

It is designed to deliver 24 individual units that will besuitable for a range of companies, with a focus on supporting the fast-growing agri-tech sector.

Ni.PARK is a key element in the Newport Innovation and Enterprise Package, backed jointly by the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership and Telford & Wrekin Council.

The council sees the project as part of its commitment to attract inward investment to the borough, delivered through its Growth fund,which looks to ensure the right properties are delivered in the right location.

Councillor David Wright, Cabinet Member for Economy, Housing, Transport and Infrastructure, said:“We identified there was a need in the market for such a development.

“Ni.PARK will provide space for a range of potential occupiers including start-ups, smaller businesses and larger occupier sespecially suited to the agricultural sector. Harper Adams University, a worldclass specialist university at the forefront of future food production, food processing,animal sciences, engineering, land management and sustainable business is the ideal partner to help deliver Ni.PARK.

We are confident Ni.PARK will consolidate the borough’s reputation as an investment hotspot”.

“The initial groundworks have been completed on time and on budget, clearing the way for Morris Property to begin work in January on the construction of Phase 1.

The aim is to have Phase 1 completed by the autumn of nextyear. The 24 units will range in size from 710 sq ft (66 sqm) to 3,778 sq ft (350 sqm), creating a total development of 41,319 sq ft (3,838 sqm).

As well as creating a high quality development the Ni.PARK scheme seeks to promote a positive ‘green’ environment / Phase 1 has been designed with electric vehicle charging points for each unit and solar panels on the roofs, together with sustainable drainage systems (SUDS) and ecological enhancements.

James West, Chief Operating Officer at Morris Property, said: “We’re delighted to secure the Phase 1 contract for the much-anticipated Newport Innovation Park. We have worked successfully with Telford and Wrekin Council on a number of design and build projects in recent years and aim to bring our experience in building high quality start-up units, such as those proposed, to deliver this project on time and on budget.”

When completed the Ni.PARK, just off the A41 at Newport,will offer companies a range of units suitable for R&D, light industry, general industrial and storage, with planning use classes B1, B2 and B8.

Ni.PARK is one of several national High Potential Opportunity sites identified by the Department for International Trade and the only one in the agri-tech sector.

Love Wellington Ad_Full Page Bleed New 21/10/2020 11:23 Page 1

Music Legend Bryan Adams is Coming to Telford

LOCAL NEWS Orchard Live who are also bringing Sir Tom Jones and Olly Murs to Telford are pleased to be confirm that Multimillion selling recording artist Bryan Adams is coming to the UK next summer and will bring his spectacular open-air show to Telford QEII Arena on Saturday 3 July.

Tickets for the show, which will form part of a UK tour in June and July 2021, went on pre-sale with Tickets Telford sale back in December. General tickets are on sale via Ticketmaster and ticketstelford.com Adams’ influence extends 4 decades, over which time he has released 14 studio albums. His most recent recording, Shine a Light, whose title track was co-written by Ed Sheeran, debuted at number one on the album charts in March of 2019. The album also features a duet with Jennifer Lopez.

His song writing has garnered him numerous awards and accolades including three Academy Award nominations, five Golden Globe nominations and a Grammy Award.

Music Legend Bryan Adams is Coming to Telford Telford & Wrekin Council are excited to announce that another huge name will be appearing in Telford Town Park in 2021.

Cllr Shaun Davies, Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council said ‘We are delighted that working with our partner that we have been able to attract another huge name to Telford which will attract visitors from far and wide, bringing money into our town for local businesses.

‘We hope that this gives everyone something to look forward to during these difficult times. The show is many months away and it is looking like the country will be in a much more positive space where people will once again be able to enjoy outdoor entertainment with family and friends.

The council over the years have brought big names to the Telford Town Park and we are delighted to be working with a partner who is taking our vision to the next level!'

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Station Quarter

Telford College is looking to set up a base in the town’s fastgrowing ‘station quarter’ to deliver an exciting new range of maths and digital courses.

LOCAL NEWS Telford College to expand into in the town’s ‘station quarter’ Telford College is looking to set up a base in the town’s fast-growing ‘station quarter’ to deliver an exciting new range of maths and digital courses.

The Maths & Digital Education and Enterprise Hub plansare a collaboration between the college, Telford & Wrekin Council, andother partners.

From January, a pilot project will be up and running to deliver innovative maths skills, including A level qualifications. Working in partnership with T&W we will operate from Addenbrooke House, creating a hi-tech delivery base for this type of provision.

Graham Guest, Telford College’s principal and chief executive, said: “We see this as being a unique alliance between industry andeducation.

“Telford and Wrekin’s ambitions are in line with those of Telford College and other partners - the collaborative approach is verypowerful. We have been in dialogue with the council and otherpartners including Telford Business Board over these proposals for the past six months, and things are now really starting to take shape. In the shortterm Telford College will be setting up a pilot project early next year, whilst also working on a longer-term vision with the University of Wolverhampton and other partners, to create a collaborative learning hub.”

“There are some exciting plans to grow Telford’s station quarter, and we see it as a tremendous opportunity to create an ambitious and exciting innovation centre right at the heart of it. For us, it’s an opportunity to expand our provision in away which is accessible to a greater proportion of people across the borough,and which would raise people’s aspirations.”

“It’s also about supporting local employers to ensure theycan develop the sort of workforce they require – and help to retain theseimportant skills in the town.”

Councillor Shaun Davies, Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, said: “It’s a Council priority that our young people and working adults receive the education and training they need to secure and maintain employment in an ever changing job market. The plans for ‘station quarter’ gives us the opportunity towork with Telford College, link with business partners and equip our workforce with high quality, industry ready skills that will serve the borough well as wemove into an increasingly digital world. This centre of excellence will also attract new investment into the town, help drive productivity across our business sectors and turbo charge opportunities for our residents and communities.”

The new Telford College base would serve as an innovation centre and accelerator hub for employers, with close links to the borough’s schools, business support organisations, including Telford Business Board andcommunity groups.

Mr Guest added: “Maths and digital qualifications are a vital pathway to higher quality and better paid career opportunities for the people of Telford.

“We are talking about equipping people for careers insectors such as cyber security, AI and robotics, virtual and augmented reality,cloud computing, wireless technologies, 5G innovation, and a whole lot more.

“The future of education needs to be built around imaginative and creative collaboration, and we are keen to work closely with partners across the business, school and local government sectors. Statistics show that young people in Telford & Wrekinhave aspirations which are lower than the national average. This new project has the potential to open more people’s eyes to what is possible, right on their doorstep.”

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Make UK is the leading UK membership organisation for British manufacturing. They celebrate and champion British manufacturing, creating a supportive environment for businesses to thrive, innovate and compete.

LOCAL NEWS Telford & Wrekin Council first Midland’s Local Authority to partner with Make UK Make UK is the leading UK membership organisation for British manufacturing. They celebrate and champion British manufacturing, creating a supportive environment for businesses to thrive, innovate and compete.

Recognising the local and regional significance of Telford’s advanced manufacturing sector, Telford & Wrekin Council is proud to be the first Midlands Authority to join this forward thinking organisation. At a challenging time for all businesses, the Council is looking forward to working collaboratively with Make UK to support our manufacturing sector and to help build a platform for the survival and evolution of regional manufacturing.

As manufacturers continue to battle the negative headwinds of Covid-19 coupled with the uncertainty of our EU exit, it is crucial to recognise the importance of the manufacturing sector and to reiterate the necessity of placing UK manufacturing at the heart of recovery plans.

Manufacturing employment is extremely strong in the Telford area, accounting for 15.7% of total employment, well above the national average of 8.1%. These statistics demonstrate how vital it is that we work together to support investment inresearch and development within the sector.

Telford manufacturers must be supported to access targeted areas of automation and technology to improve our Town’s productivity and general competitiveness.

Telford manufacturers’ determination to survive and grow through adaptation and innovation is evident. Our new partnership will help manufacturers to connect, share and solve problems together across the UK network, for example through focused networking events where members discuss

the most crucial and current issues for industry at a national and regional level.

Councillor David Wright, Council Cabinet Member for Economy, Housing, Transport and Infrastructure, said: “Telford has a national reputation for its manufacturing excellence and the pioneering work of many of our businesses.

“That reputation has helped us win significant new investment into the Borough in recent times, most notably with the arrival of Canadian giant Magna Cosma, the largest Foreign Direct Investment win into the UK for 10 years” He continued“we want to build on this reputation and, through this exciting new collaboration, help promote further growth by sharing the borough’s success stories and helping other businesses to benefit and adapt to the changing business world”.

Charlotte Horobin, Make UK, Region Director said “I am really excited to workalong side Telford & Wrekin Council in supporting their manufacturing agenda and businesses.

Partnering to advance the area in levelling up, green recovery,implementing digital technology and creating an environment to trade globally.The sector is an integral part of local economies and never more so than in Telford and Wrekin, an area with a strong manufacturing base and a council committed to industry.”

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LET’S EAT. Pumpkin and potato gratin For a tasty twist on a standard recipe for gratin potatoes, look no further...

For a tasty twist on a standard recipe for gratin potatoes, look no further...

With layers of sliced potato and pumpkin combined with Parmesan and a hint of thyme make for a tasty and elegant side dish.

Method...

STEP 1 Preheat your oven to 200°C. Grease a shallow ovenproof dish and place on a baking tray.

STEP 2 Place the potato slices in a large microwaveable dish.

Cover and microwave on high for 5 minutes or until tender. Stand for 2 minutes and drain. Repeat this with pumpkin, microwave for 3-4 minutes, stand for 2 minutes then drain.

STEP 3 Meanwhile, place the garlic with the onion in a medium saucepan over a moderate heat, and add the milk and cream. Bring to a simmer, stirring regularly, then remove from the heat and stand for 5 minutes for flavours to infuse.

STEP 4 Scoop out any pieces of onion and discard, then pour milk into a heatproof jug and wipe pan clean.

20

RECIPES

THE INGREDIENTS Prep & Cooking time: 1hr 15mins Serves 6 4 large potatoes, peeled, cut into 5mm slices 600g pumpkin, peeled, cut into 5mm slices 1 medium brown onion, Chopped 1 Clove of Garlic, Chopped 230ml milk 300ml cream 50g butter 30g plain flour 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg 100g freshly grated parmesan cayenne pepper fresh thyme

STEP 5 Melt butter in the pan over a moderate heat. Add the flour and stir for 1-2 minutes or until bubbling. Add the nutmeg and stir for 30 seconds or until fragrant. Gradually mix in warm cream mixture until smooth and creamy. Whisk together for 4-5 minutes or until sauce boils and thickens.

Remove from the heat, stir in half the parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with pepper, to taste.

STEP 6 Arrange half the potato over the base of prepared dish.

Then do the same with half of the pumpkin and pour over half the cream mixture. Repeat with the remaining potato, pumpkin and cream. Sprinkle with remaining parmesan and sprinkle with cayenne pepper. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until bubbling and golden. Stand for 5 minutes. You could make individual portions by using smaller dishes and following the same process.

STEP 7 Garnish with some fresh thyme.

Tip: To make this gluten free, replace the flour with gluten free flour or cornflour.

RECIPES

21

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The Basics

Model: Jaguar I-Pace HSE Price from: £64,625 Pictures: Jaguar.com

With the phasing out of petrol and diesel cars being brought forward to 2030, and the growing climate emergency unfolding in front of our eyes, many of us are looking to move over to an electric vehicle. So when we found ourselves looking for our next car, we had our eye on the all-electric Jaguar I-PACE. It is quite a different feeling owning and driving an all-electric vehicle. It is great to know that you are doing your bit for the environment, but it is a bit of a learning curve. When we first picked up the I-PACE, our home charging point hadn’t been fitted. Luckily, my husband was able to charge at work, but it is definitely something to be mindful of when you buy your first electric car.

There are a few places around Telford that have electric charging points, but it does take around 40 minutes on a fast-charging point (50kW) to get a half decent charge. So having the home charging point is essential. Once the charge point was fitted, we were able to plug in at night, ready for the next day. Working in Wolverhampton, there was no problem, with a range up to 292 miles from a full charge, but if you travel any distance it could be a less attractive option as you would have to factor in charging time to your day.

The car itself is fantastic. Bursting with tech, and all of the luxury touches that you would expect from a premium brand like Jaguar. On the outside, it is a sleek SUV, with hidden handles that pop out when you unlock the car, and 20 inch alloys, positioned on each corner - as well as all-wheel drive; giving the car great handling capability.

When you get inside the I-PACE you find that there is plenty of space. It is a really comfortable car to drive, or to be a passenger in. The back has loads of room - my eldest son who is 6ft 3ins had ample leg and head room, and the rear seats are split fold, which is handy for those trips to Ikea to pick up a flat pack or two. The vision out of the rear window is minimal, but the car comes with cameras that offer 360 degree vision, so it’s not really an issue. It is a big car, and fills the average parking space (which just seem to keep getting smaller) and like most electric vehicles, the I-PACE is not cheap. They start at around £64,625 and the HSE model comes in at around £75,000.

Jaguar really have made going electric easy. We have found the switch over to electric relatively painless, and it feels good to be driving a car that is more environmentally friendly.

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By Eileen Callear

Going Electric

Going electric made easy: e Jaguar I-PACE – the world’s first premium all-electric performance SUV – now offers a new fast, intuitive infotainment system and quicker charging capability, making owning and driving an electric vehicle easier than ever...

The Jaguar I-PACE has been designed to ensure every step of the customer journey delivers peace of mind and makes owning an electric car as easy as possible.

With a range of up to 292 miles (WLTP) from its 90kWh battery, customers with an average daily commute would only need to charge their I-PACE once a week. And the I-PACE is offered with an 8 year or 100,000 mile battery warranty.

A range calculation tool on jaguar.co.uk/i-pace jaguar.com makes it easy to see how factors such as vehicle speed, ambient temperature and climate control settings can influence the real-world range you could expect to achieve.

Jaguar has developed the iGuide app making it simple to find and understand the key features and controls of your Jaguar I‑PACE. It also doubles as your mobile owner’s manual, ensuring the answer to any question about charging are at your fingertips.

For queries ‘on the go’ I-PACE you can also get help 24/7 from the I-Assistance service – at the touch of a button they’ll be connected directly to an expert to answer any queries about the vehicle.

Every home charging point from Jaguar’s recommended partners comes smart enabled, meaning you can conveniently activate and deactivate you charging progress straight from your smart phone.

When charging in public places the IPACE’s charging cable locks into place as soon as the car is locked, and cannot be disconnected until the vehicle is unlocked, giving you the freedom to go about your day while the vehicle charges up.

The Jaguar I-PACE now delivers even more technology to make living the electric life simpler and more rewarding than ever. This is the first Jaguar to feature the new Pivi Pro infotainment system.

As intuitive to use as a smartphone, Pivi Pro is fast and responsive with enhanced EV navigation that can show you if nearby charging stations are available or in use, what they cost, and how long it will take to charge.

I-PACE now comes with an 11kW on-board charger as standard, enabling customers with access to three-phase electricity supplies to enjoy significantly faster charging: when connected to an 11kW wall box 33 miles* of range (WLTP) per hour can be achieved, while a full charge from empty now takes only 8.6 hours – ideal for overnight charging at home. Customers using 7kW wallboxes also benefit from competitive charging capability – up to 22 miles of charge per hour, with a full charge taking 12.75 hours. When charging ‘on the go’, a 50kW charger will add up to 39 miles in 15 minutes, whilst a 100kW charger will add up to 78 miles over the same period.

With a focus on air quality, occupant well-being is prioritised, with cabin air ionisation now featuring PM2.5 filtration to capture ultrafine airborne particles and allergens. The I-PACE can even filter its cabin air before a journey begins.

The exterior design is enhanced with a new Atlas Grey grille tip finish and customers benefit from an enhanced paint palette, new range of wheels, and a luxurious new Bright Pack option, available on all models in the I-PACE range.

(Pictures are the property of Jaguar.com for more information visit www.jaguar.co.uk)

The Jaguar I-PACE has an Eco Mode which helps preserve range by reducing energy depletion and encouraging a more efficient driving style. It also makes subtle changes to cabin temperature, air recirculation and to a number of the car's other features. You can override these changes by normal operation of each feature or via the menu settings.

The I-PACE is equipped with Software over the Air (SOTA) functionality. This means Systems including infotainment, battery management and charging can be updated remotely and enable the I-PACE to continuously improve over time.

Going Electric

23

Telford & Wrekin and Shropshire move into Tier 3.

LOCAL NEWS Telford and Wrekin moves to Tier 3 “Very High” Covid Alert Level restrictions, as cases rise continues The Government has announced that new Tier 3 restrictions will come into place for Telford and Wrekin from Thursday, 31 December 2020.

Latest data shows there are 143 cases per 100,000 residents, in the week ending 26 December. Infection rates in the over 60s also continue to be a cause for concern, at 127 cases per 100,000.

Infection rates are high in all surrounding council areas except for Shropshire. The impact of Christmas mixing is yet to be seen in the infection rates and they are predicted to rise in the coming weeks. Under Tier 3 restrictions, people cannot socialise indoors, outdoor socialising is limited to groups of six, people should continue to work from home wherever possible and reduce the amount of journeys made.

A significant change from Tier 2 is that bars, pubs and restaurants must now close, except for takeaway, click-andcollect and delivery services.

From 31 December, the new Tier 3 restrictions in Telford and Wrekin mean that: •People must not socialise indoors with anyone who is not part of their household or support bubble, whether at home or in a public space

•People can meet others in outdoor places public spaces such as parks, the countryside or public gardens but only if they do so in a group of six or less and practice social distancing (the 'rule of six') •Everyone who can work from home should do so

•Hospitality settings such as bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants must close except for takeaway, click-andcollect and delivery services

•Indoor entertainment and tourist venues must close, as must hotels, B&Bs and guest houses, with limited exemptions

•Leisure and sports facilities may continue to stay open, however group exercise classes (including fitness and dance) must not go ahead

•People should avoid travelling outside of the area other than where necessary (for instance, for work or education purposes) •Weddings and funerals can go ahead with restrictions on the number of attendees

Liz Noakes, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Director of Public Health, said: "The tragic reality is that this virus claims people’s lives and we need to do all we can to reduce the spread.

“While the ongoing vaccination programme provides hope, its full roll-out in the borough will take some time, so we’re still some way off being able to return to normality.

“As infection rates continue to rise in the borough, we must focus on keeping ourselves and each other safe. That means following the rules, looking out for vulnerable relatives and doing our best to drive the rates down.”

Andy Burford, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, said: “Ultimately this is the Government’s decision and we all need to do what we can to reduce the spread of the virus.

"We all need to continue to comply with the restrictions. I am confident that if we all play our part, we will be able to get through this and look forward to some return to normality in 2021.”

Council Leader Shaun Davies, said: "The Government’s decision to move to Tier 3 is significantly impacting borough businesses, particularly those in hospitality, accommodation, events but also small businesses.

“We are urging the government to provide enhanced support to all businesses affected by the new restrictions, especially since many of them continue to face serious financial challenges due to previous restrictions and lockdowns.

“As we’ve done throughout this difficult year, we will continue to go the extra mile to help all businesses impacted as much as we can.

“Information about the support available to borough businesses is on www.telford.gov.uk/coronavirus – “I am a business” section.

“Grant applications are still open, so whether your business has to close due to the new restrictions, whether you continue to operate but struggle financially, you can apply for grants via the council website.

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WINTER Blues...

Everyone should have a formal coat in their closet, and this navy blue onefrom Dorothy Perkins is an absolute classic. If you are looking for something for relaxing around the house or out for a walk, this tracksuit from Primark is perfect.

IN THE

NAVY Because it’s a classic shade, you can afford to think about navy clothes and accessories as an investment that will last you for years. Navy blue was first used to describe the specific shade of dark blue worn by the British Royal Navy. Now, it is still used to refer to a blue colour which is almost black, but you will find there are lots of variations in shade.

26

THE STYLE GUIDE

Left: Navy Coat from Dorothy Perkins. Main Image: Primark Printed Hoodie £7.

Stripe 6 Button Blazer £20 & Pattern Pin Stitch Jogger £10. Far Right: Sonder St

Right: Primark Pin tudio Navy Top £49

THE STYLE GUIDE

the

style guide It’s one of the most universally flattering colours around and can look less harsh than black. It goes with just about every other colour out there, and it looks great what ever the season - What is it? It’s Navy Blue...

Why Is Navy Blue Such A Fabulous Colour To Wear?

Here are just a few of the reasons why I love navy:

Navy is a universal colour and unlike black, which can sometimes be harsh, navy flatters the most skin tones.

It Looks Stylish Any Time Of Year...

While it’s not always in stores in great quantities all year, it looks fabulous at any time of year, whether you opt for a smart navy dress at Christmas, or you wear a striped navy sailor style t-shirt in summer.

It Can Be Smart Or Casual...

You could wear navy as a bridesmaid in lovely lace, or you could choose a chunky navy sweater. It’s one of the most versatile colours out there.

Navy Goes With Every Colour In Your Wardrobe...

If you are having one of those I-have-nothing-to-wear moments, adding more neutrals to your closet can help you get the most out of the clothes you already have.you like to wear – it’s hard to get it wrong when matching colors with navy.

JUST ADD

NAVY

White...

And Blue...

Crisp and clean, navy and white is an incredibly chic combination. Add a white shirt or cami vest to this classic navy suit and you will be ready to get down to business.

Wearing navy blue with another shade of blue isn’t just for men to wear to work! It’s a great combination which looks equally classy for women too!

27

STAY HOME...

During the pandemic, homeowners have been exploring new ways to make extra space at home - as well as making their homes a more enjoyable place to be. Adding a garden room is a simple and costeffective way to achieve both! Check out these amazing real customer garden room projects from Green Retreats for some incredible garden room ideas: 1. Year-Round-Summerhouse Your garden needn't be reserved for use in summer! With a fully insulated garden room from Green Retreats, you can make the most of your garden all-year-round. Constructed using the same methods and materials used in modern house building, a Green Retreats garden room as a summerhouse alternative is as comfortable as a room inside your home no matter what the weather outside. Heating is included too!

28

2. Garden Pod A garden pod is typically a small garden building that's cleverly furnished to make the most of compact space. The modern and simplistic scandiinspired exterior styling of the Green Retreats garden buildings make for a clean and contemporary garden pod design. Perfect as a secret retreat from home to tuck away at the end of the garden.

3. Garden Office Garden offices have been the hero garden room use during the pandemic. With most of the country encouraged to work from home, making space to focus on work and create a work-life balance seemed an impossible task. A garden room offered a solution to both! Creating space away from the distractions of home, as well as being able to close the door at the end of the day to properly switch off.

Image Above | The Garden Office 'TGO4' 5m x 3m starting from £22,245

Stay Home

6. Double up with storage Not only are garden rooms a unique and modern way to add extra space at home, but they're also incredibly practical too.

Green Retreats offer the option to double-up on the use of their buildings with the addition of a subtle storage section. The buildings are fully insulated and secured with insurance grade locking, unlike a typical garden shed, meaning your belongings will be safe.

Image Above | The Garden Office 'TGO3' 3m x 5m starting from £21,245

4. Garden Bar With nowhere to drive to and pubs and restaurants closing, another popular home improvement this year has been the home bar or garden bar. Green Retreats' customers have created some incredible garden room transformations, creating garden pubs and even a 'gin palace'!

5. Make space for fun!

Staying at home more has meant getting creative with ways to keep entertained. Garden rooms have allowed people to create spaces at home that they've always dreamt of! Games rooms, cinemas, man caves and shesheds have been some of the most exciting garden room transformations of the past year. Whether they're adults only or fun for all the family, making space to have fun at home has never been more relevant.

7. Panoramic views with bi-fold doors If you've got gorgeous garden views then make the most of them! Green Retreats have optional upgrades to large glazed sliding, French or bi-fold doors offering panoramic views of your garden for you to enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons.

Choosing a UK Garden Room Company With the growing popularity of garden rooms, especially over the past year, there are a lot of suppliers to choose from. Green Retreats have been the UKs trusted garden room company since 2005, with modern showrooms in Buckinghamshire and Twickenham, unparalleled customer service, a 5* Trustpilot rating and an enviable environmental policy. Green Retreats have also recently been backed by architecture guru Kevin McCloud!

Key Facts and Prices: Green Retreats garden room prices start at £14,745 for a complete and installed solution. That means prices include VAT, professional installation, base/foundations, 2.3m French or sliding doors, opening window, oak laminate flooring, internal wiring, 3 double plug sockets, lighting, heating, premium-grade insulation, delivery within 100 miles of their factory... and much more!

Designed and built in the UK, Fully professionally installed as standard, 10-year guarantee, Eco-friendly, Insulated, weatherproofed and heated for year-round-use. Plus Planning permission rarely required (as easy to add as a garden shed!)

Image Above | Green Retreats 'Pinnacle' 5.5m x 5m starting from £29,295

"The idea of having a garden outbuilding as separate entertaining/relaxing space grew on me. Also, the fact that we work from home means that we could feel like we are in another space, a place to escape." - Allan

www.greenretreats.co.uk

Image Above | Green Retreats 'Inspiration' 4.5m x 3m starting from £18,745

Stay Home

29

Love Your Outdoor Space

THROUGH the Winter MONTHS

and it Will Love You Back!

As the winter months creep up on us, you may feel less enthused about venturing out into the cooler temperatures, to potter around your garden. You might find you don’t really know what the next steps are, to help nurture your outdoor space. As growth of plant life slows down, most blooms die back, leaves drop off, and the biting frost isn’t far away everything in the garden cries out for some TLC. Recycle fallen leaves...

One of the first winter jobs to start with could be raking up the fallen autumn leaves. As well as preventing any slippery accidents on your driveway or decking, collected leaves can be composted or turned into leaf mould, a great nutritious material, ideal for potting or mulching. If you’re new to creating leaf mould and want to give it a go, Monty Don demonstrates the process perfectly, here: https://www.gardenersworld.com/howto/maintain-the-garden/how-to-make-leafmould/

If you’re committed to growing during the winter season, you will need to be more selective about the plants you choose, but planting with success is still possible. There’s no reason why you can’t change things up, swapping your tomatoes for spring onions in the greenhouse and switching your potted sunflowers for a winter heather.

With so many of us embracing our gardens than ever before this year, especially during the spring and summer months of lockdown, it would be a shame not to carry on loving our outdoor spaces until the end of the year, celebrating the joy and hope they have brought to our lives.

Read our guide below from online compost retailer, Compost Direct, offering ways in which you can change your focus and find your path in winter gardening.

Help wildlife get through the winter months There may be some colourful winter berries about during the winter months, but generally sources of food are more limited for our garden wildlife. Give the birds a boost by placing water baths and feeders around your outdoor space. If you have a garden pond, remember to break the ice on it, if temperatures fall below zero and that will offer wildlife of all sizes with some drinking water.

Don’t forget about your garden taps Since the frosty weather can cause the outside taps in your garden to burst, it’s important to isolate every tap, where possible, from the stop tap. After turning off the tap, drain it too. For those that can’t do this, it’s best to place a cover over the tap and insulate the pipes.

Yes, winter vegetables are a thing Wrap up your shrubs...

For the shrubs you want to protect from the cold elements and frost, wrap them up in a fleece jacket stuffed with straw. Our harsh winter weather can also cause terracotta pots to crack, so to help ensure they last for many years to come, tuck them away in a shed, garage or indoors.

Most people don’t think about growing vegetables during the winter months but if there’s a will, there’s a way! Not all vegetables will thrive and survive the cold, damp conditions of winter but here’s a few that will.

• Carrots – Not only are they bursting with vitamin A and beta-carotene, but they also help keep your eyes healthy. With the dark nights approaching fast, carrots are a must!

• Rocket – Rich in vitamin C, K, and A, rocket is the perfect crop to grow in your garden this winter.

• Spring onions – These crops thrive in the winter months. Not only that, but when they are left to ‘bulb up’ in the later months of the year, they can grow into onions too. Efficiency is key.

• Brussels sprouts – With Christmas approaching, producing your own Brussels sprouts suits the occasion perfectly.

WINTER GARDEN

Flowers that can withstand the chills of winter...

Rather than leaving your summer blooms to slowly wilt away over the colder season, you could replant some winter alternatives, to add a pop of colour to your outdoor space.

• Christmas roses: Get into the Christmas spirit with these large, rounded, flat-faced flowers. To glean the best results, plant at the front of a partially shaded border.

• Winter aconites: These golden yellow flowers are beautifully divided by leafy bracts and take a buttercup-style formation. Blossoming best from mid to late winter, these will make a vibrant addition to your garden.

• Snowdrops: Embrace the winter chill with these bright white flowers.

• Winter heather: Add a splash of purple, pink, and blue to your garden with these gradually spreading blossoms.

Stay snug and take in the sky at night...

To add the final finishing touches to your garden this winter, investing in some cosy décor can help bring light and warmth to your outdoor space. With the market boasting a plethora of

cute and stylish outdoor decorations, these can be as expensive or as inexpensive as you wish – you choose.

A firepit is a great place to start. For evenings that bring a spectacular winter sunset and nights that mark a glorious full moon or bring a display of stars - firepits will not only add a rustic vibe to your garden but help keep you snug. Grab a blanket and a cup of hot chocolate and your winter evenings are complete!

Light up your outdoor space...

Lights can add the extra-cosy effect your garden craves. By placing fairy lights around your fence or the wooden gazebo you have left abandoned in the corner, you can add an authentic and warming feel to your exterior – just make sure the lights are suited for outdoor use.

As the seasons come and go, with a little bit of planning and elbow grease, you can help your garden aesthetic to evolve with it. Keep loving your garden through the winter and it will love you back, helping you to weather any current uncertainties and hardships you might be facing personally during the pandemic.

Sources https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/maintain-the-garden/how-to-make-leaf-mould/ https://www.compostdirect.com/shop-by-season/winter/c24

WINTER GARDEN

BOOK WORMS ‘Home By Seven: One woman's solo journey to ride all seven continents on two wheels’ It might have taken four years, but in March of 2018 Stephanie Jeavons had completed a motorcycle ride spanning 54 countries, over 74,000 miles, and put her 250cc Honda through record-breaking paces.

She now held a new world record, becoming the first person to circumnavigate the globe and ride a motorcycle on all seven continents. But equally as fascinating is Jeavons’ life story that culminated in this achievement. In her new memoir, ‘Home By Seven: One woman's solo journey to ride all seven continents on two wheels’, Jeavons exposes all.

Synopsis: One woman’s solo journey to ride all seven continents on two wheels Welsh girl Steph Jeavons ran away to see the world. She wanted to see the sunset from every angle. She wanted to see an orangutan and a baobab tree. She wanted to become the first person to circumnavigate the globe and ride a motorcycle on all seven continents - and to sing karaoke on the way. Steph’s cravings for escapism manifest themselves in many ways throughout her life. The book begins in her late teens where she finds herself in prison by the age of twenty. She knows there is a whole world beyond that razor wire just calling out to be explored. Twenty years later, and armed only with a stern tone of voice she reserves for naughty dogs, drunk Turks, Iranian taxi drivers, semiconscious British soldiers and Saudi truckers, she rides her trusty steed Rhonda the Honda solo around the world, to the highest, driest, wettest, hottest and coldest corners of the earth. This is a powerful and honest memoir written from the perspective of a liberated single woman taking on the world with a dogged determination to complete her mission at all costs. Home by Seven is told with honesty and wit and from a unique perspective.

“When I look back at my life, the ride has been as brave, perilous and unconventional as my circumnavigation,” explains the author. “I made many bad decisions in my youth, as a heroin epidemic swept the nation, and I found myself caught in its grip, eventually landing in prison. But redemption is a powerful thing, and I now want to help people realize that anything is possible, and nobody will ever judge them by their worst action.”

Continuing, “The book is a wonderful gift for fans of travel, motorcycles or personal stories of overcoming the odds. It’s especially profound in 2020, as we’re all forced to stay close

32 Book Worms

Home By Seven: Steph Jeavons’ ‘Home By Seven: One woman's solo journey to ride all seven continents on two wheels’ offers readers a back-seat ride alongside the author, as she becomes the first person to circumnavigate the globe and ride a motorcycle on all seven continents.

But it’s not a travelogue; Jeavons offers a frank and uninhibited look at the events that led to her feat – from youth addiction and time in prison, to a burning desire to better herself. One critic wrote, “Two days of page turning excitement and trepidation, following Steph on her epic journey by motorbike. Highly recommend to everyone! You don’t have to love bikes or travel to be drawn into this. I am still moved and thoughtful days after completing it.”

to home, and many are turning to books to get that escape they crave. This book has it in abundance, with plenty of unexpected twists along the way.”

Reviews have been extremely positive. Jamie McNeill writes, “Steph’s writing style is relaxed but witty, at times, as she recounts the miles, the landscapes and the experiences of the people whom she met along the way. This is a must read for all budding motorcycle adventurists and is an excellent source of reference for those wishing to get a ‘feel’ for a particular place before travelling there. Thank you for writing so candidly.”

Another reader adds, “I was gripped from the first page and absolutely amazed at Steph’s journey from such a tough time (the first few chapters really hit you hard) to the unbelievable achievement of completing her dream solo trip on all 7 continents with best mate Rhonda the Honda. Such open and honest writing, with really touching experiences, from the hair-raising moment Rhonda was lowered onto a dinghy to reach the Antarctic, to sharing a bonding moment with her ‘warrior husband‘, there were times I was holding my breath in awe!”

‘Home By Seven: One woman's solo journey to ride all seven continents on two wheels’ is available now: https://amzn.to/3e2GEWu. Copies can also be purchased from the author’s official website: https://stephjeavons.com/shop.

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Once the flowers begin to bloom and the weather starts to improve, many of us will be spending a lot more time in our gardens. Whether you have a lawn, patio or decking space, Lights4fun reveals their top tips for transforming your outdoor area and the latest spring trends for 2021!

Introducing colour is key for your spring garden according to Lights4fun. Yellow is one of the chosen pantone colours for 2021, in particular a bright yellow shade named ‘Illuminating’ is on trend this year. Lights4fun’s Micro Yellow Flower Lights are the perfect finishing touch to bushes and hedges and the brilliantly bendable wire enables you to intertwine them into the greenery to achieve your desired look. They can also be wrapped around other elements of your garden with ease and are a lovely addition to an outdoor table display. These delicate little lights are illuminated by warm white LEDs and are battery operated, so they can be displayed wherever you like!

Festoon lights are a great feature by day and by night, as well as being versatile in their styling. Lights4fun’s Warm White Festival Festoons are subtle yet stylish, with their white perspex globe bulbs radiating a warm white glow once illuminated. Suitable for outdoor use, Lights4fun recommends hanging the festoons high above your outside seating area to add a little light as darkness falls. Alternatively, you can swag them along walls or fences to give them a glow. If you prefer a more vibrant look, opt for Lights4fun’s Multi Coloured Festival Festoons. They are sure to bring any outdoor space to life! Dining alfresco calls for the perfect picnic setting! It’s important to create a relaxing and calming atmosphere, so you can sit back and enjoy your time spent outdoors. Lights4fun’s Outdoor TruGlow® Candle Trio are the ideal accompaniment. Designed specifically for outside displays, the candles are waterproof so there’s no need to worry if they get caught in a spring shower! The LED flames look super realistic whilst also being incredibly safe, meaning you can sit them on picnic blankets and wooden tables as they remain cool to the touch. To complete your set-up, Light4fun’s outdoor micro lights will add sparkle. Simply weave them in and around your arrangement and add a vase of flowers to set the scene.

However big or small your garden is, there are so many ways you can get your space spring ready!

Advertising Feature...

Photograph depicts a typical Bovis Home exterior/interior. Elevation may dier to that shown. Internal images may include optional upgrades at an additional cost.

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These new homes, from Bovis Homes, offer a traditional exterior design with modern spaces inside. Complete with open plan kitchen and dining areas, separate lounges and utility rooms, they make the most of the space. Selected designs also include a downstairs study for those now working from home meaning you can maintain a good work/life balance.

The surrounding development offers plenty of green space with a future play area for the children and has retained many trees and nature to make the most of the natural environment. The three bedroom Spruce showhome demonstrates a clean and crisp feel but with some beautiful autumnal themes thrown in and is available to view via online or telephone booking. If you want something a little larger then you could take a look round the four-bedroom Aspen.

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LOCAL NEWS

Pictured: First care home resident, John Heggarty in Telford and Wrekin receives Covid-19 vaccination, pictured with Claire Smith the General Manager at Morris Care Centre Wellington, Dr Singh GP Clinical Lead Partner at Wellington Medical Practice and Dr Ebenezer GP Managing Partner at Wellington Medical Practice, and both are Joint Clinical Directors of Wrekin Primary Care Network.

First care home residents in Telford and Wrekin get Covid-19 vaccination...

In addition, a further two GP practices across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, started to offer the vaccination on the 29th December.

The roll out began in mid-December and is being offered first to the county’s most vulnerable residents in line with national guidelines.

Residents will be contacted directly by their GP if they are eligible for the vaccine, as part of the priority group criteria – with residents aged 80 and above along with care home workers and residents and NHS workers who are at higher risk, among the first to receive the vaccination.

In the meantime, all residents are being asked not to contact their GP or the hospitals regarding vaccinations and wait to receive a letter or phone call from their GP inviting them to book their appointment. Everyone will be offered the vaccine over the course of 2021.

Telford & Wrekin Council Leader, Shaun Davies, said: “We welcome that our care home residents are receiving their vaccinations and that more local people are being able to take up the offer to be vaccinated closer to home, so they don’t have to travel larger distances to other sites in the county.

A 61-year-old man was among the first care home residents in Telford and Wrekin, Shropshire to receive the Covid-19 vaccine.

John Heggarty is a resident at Morris Care Home in Wellington and told how he was pleased and proud to mark the start of the vaccine rollout to care home residents in the area. He said: “It’s really great that I’ve got to be vaccinated so soon and in the comfort of the care home I live in, not having to travel for the vaccine.

“I look forward now to a return to a new normal and this is one more step forward towards helping with safe visits again from my family, I have really missed seeing them in person.”

“Making sure that all our vulnerable residents and those at higher risk are protected and getting the vaccine as a priority is vital as we continue to battle Covid-19. I will continue to do everything I can to support the roll-out of the vaccination as quickly as possible.”

Liz Noakes, Director of Public Health for Telford & Wrekin Council, said: “We are pleased that care home residents in our borough are now starting to receive the vaccine, which will go a long way to protecting some of the most vulnerable people in our population. I would like to thank all members of staff involved in the getting the vaccination service up and running. It is testament to their hard work that we’ve been able to rapidly roll out the programme across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin.”

Dr Dez Ebenezer, GP Managing Partner at Wellington Medical Practice and Clinical Director of Wrekin Primary Care Network said "We are delighted to be vaccinating our first care home residents at Morris Care today.

“I’d urge everyone to take up the vaccine when it’s offered – it’s our best protection against COVID-19. However, the full vaccination roll-out in our borough will take some time - it’s important that we all continue to do everything we can to prevent the spread of the virus in the borough, particularly at this time, when there are new Covid-19 variants spreading quickly across the country. Please continue to self-isolate and get tested when you need to, do not socialise indoors, wash your hands, wear a face covering where appropriate and maintain a distance of 2m from other people.”

"We look forward to more care home residents in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin benefitting from the vaccination programme and the protection it offers."

For more information about vaccination, please go to https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/covid-19vaccination-programme

The Morris Care Centre in Wellington is the first care home in the county to begin Covid-19 vaccinations, which local health bosses said was a “huge step” forward. This was the first time that elderly care home residents from Shropshire have been vaccinated in the facility in which they live.

Capital Appliances Nov Dec Telford_Full Page Bleed New 20/10/2020 14:04 Page 1

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71 Litres Capacity 5 Functions (Inc Defrost & Slow Cook) Catalytic Cleaning Liners Dimensions: H59.5xW59.5xD55.1cm 1 year labour 10 year parts A Energy Rating

Shrewsbury - Unit 26 Vanguard Telford - Castle Street, Way, Harlescott, SY1 3TG Hadley, Telford, TF1 6GJ T: 01743 463261 T: 01952 257007

Aspirations Gym

What it means for Telford and Wrekin Leisure Services...

LOCAL NEWS Tier 3 restrictions across Telford and Wrekin Leisure sites What it means for Telford and Wrekin Leisure Services...

Following the announcement that Telford and Wrekin entered Tier 3 restrictions from midnight on 31st December, many of you may be wondering what this means for our leisure services.

The Ice Rink will close. If you have a session booked our team will cancel this for you and process refunds. If you are an existing member we will also freeze all memberships during this time. Our team will take care of all of this for you.

First and foremost we can confirm that most of our leisure facilities will remain open with our usual restrictions and extra cleaning resumes in place to keep everyone safe.

Sports clubs for under 18s and disability groups will carry on. This includes football, badminton, and gymnastics and dance clubs.

You can still:

Badminton and indoor tennis – only use these facilities with the same household or support bubble.

Visit the gym – just book your session here: Book a swim session:

If your child is due to restart swimming lessons from early January – this will still happen.

There will however be a few changes acrossour facilities which we need to make you aware of: No adult fitness classes will happen – BUT our fitness classes will be moving online. Watch this space we will publish our brand new virtual timetable very soon to keep you moving this January.

Gym changing rooms and health suites will no longer be open.

Swimming changing rooms will be open.

One to one sport coaching is only permitted with the same household or support bubble only.

No indoor casual football sessions will be running Group coaching outdoors is permitted for both adults and children We would like to reassure our customers that we are doing everything we can to keep our facilities clean and safe to exercise in.

Cleaning schedules have been increased throughout the leisure centres, and you may find that the reception area looks a little different with the installation of screens at the desks.

Standby for more information on our virtual fitness class timetable…

In the meantime stay safe.

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LET’S TALK ABOUT LIPS

Lip Fillers...

Early December after years of deliberation my mom, Eileen & I decided to get lip fillers.We headed down to meet Sharna Ellis, the owner of The Beauty Box Aesthetics based in Telford. Sharna specialises in lip augmentation, Micro-needling and Dermal fillers around the mouth area.

I was a bag of nerves as Eileen took to the bed ready to get started. Sharna was excellent, talking us through the process, and checking what we expeced from the treatment for example; more volume, definition or to even out the lip shape.

Eileen wanted to even out her uneven lips and to increase volume and improve definition. She had numbing cream applied, and Sharna got started. It was a bit painful, but nothing terrible, but it did make her eyes water a bit. Top lip first and then on to the bottom. It only took about 20 minutes or so and once finished Sharna sat her up and showed her the results. I could tell she was really pleased with the results.

I was next, and I was really anxious by the time I lay back on the bed - but I had wanted lip fillers for ages, and I wasn’t going to let a few nerves stop me now! I wanted to enhance my cupid’s bow area and improve the definition of my lip line. Once I was all numbed up, it was time to get started. I really did find it quite uncomfortable. Once finished I was really pleased that I had gone through the discomfort. I absolutely love the results, and Sharna had given me exactly what I had wanted. She recommended Arnica Cream (from Superdrug) to help with any bruising - which we went and got. I didn’t get a lot of bruising but mom had a little bit, and the cream definitely helped to reduce it - so definitely worth using it.

Sharna gave us all of the aftercare information, messaged us both regularly, and got us to send pictures so she could check everything was going as expected. We have booked our top up for the middle of January, and we are both really looking forward to it. Initially there is some swelling, which goes down after a couple of days - the trouble is you don’t want it to! There was a spaecial offer running at the time of 1.1ml for £99, which was a brilliant deal. I would recommend lip fillers to anyone. I absolutely love mine, and so does my mom.

40 LIP FILLERS

BEFORE & AFTER Eileen had 1.1ML to even out and enhance her naturel lips, this gave a beautiful definition. is will require a top up in 4/5 weeks to allow time for healing and then again in around 3 months time. After this maintance is just an annual top up to keep them looking plump and hydrated.

BEFORE & AFTER JASMINE...

Jasmine wanted to enhance the cupids bow, and add volume to her lips.

THE BEAUTY BOX AESTHETICS Sharna Ellis - Qualified Aesthetic Practitioner Find her on Facebook: The Beauty Box Aesthetics Call: 07497 940338 (Based in Telford)

Influenza Are you at more risk of Influenza?...

We are all at risk of falling victim to the seasonal flu however some of us are more likely to have complications of influenza that may require medical treatment or hospitalization.

People who suffer the following may be at more risk • Adults 65 years and over • Pregnant woman and young children • Asthmatics and diabetics • Heart disease or if you have suffered a stroke • Cancer patients • If you have HIV • Children with neurologic conditions • Chronic kidney disease Signs and symptoms of the flu include fever with aches or chills, weakness (feeling fatigue) along with a sore throat and cough. You may also experience a headache and stuffy nose. The onset of flu will normally come on fast and abruptly where as a common cold will normally have a gradual onset with symptoms being less sever.

Whilst prevention is the ideal protection against flu it is hard to protect yourself against this invisible killer. Regular hand washing and use off hand sanitizer along with catching coughs and sneezes is the best way to prevent becoming infection or passing on influenza.

42

HEALTH

keeping well this flu season...

Not only are we trying to protect ourselves against Covid-19 this winter we also face the risk of the flu season for good measure! Here we have the best tips for keeping well this winter.

What is flu season?

There is a huge misconception when it comes to seasonal flu; many of us believe that as soon as temperatures plummet around late October time that flu season is upon us. However, seasonal flu tends to starts midDecember, peaking around January and February and coming to an end in March also it has been known to tail off as late as May in past years. People who have not experiences flu often mistake a common cold for seasonal flu. Although symptoms are similar, there is a huge difference between the two. In general, flu is much worse and symptoms are more intense and can lead to serious health complications such as pneumonia, bacterial infections leading to increased hospitalizations

How can i protect myself against seasonal flu?

Whilst flu is hard to prevent there are ways that we can help our bodies prepare for seasonal flu.

1. Keeping a nutritious diet is important in maintaining a healthy immune system, Vitamins, minerals and antioxidants are all great for building a strong immune systems. Food such as yogurt, fruits, fish, nuts and oats are great.

2. Hydration! Staying hydrated is a must. Water is needed for body function regardless of the time of year however; water intake keeps the lining of the nose moist, this moisture inside the nose acts as a barrier to trap bacteria, dust and germs from entering you lungs.

3. Regular exercise is a great way to strengthen the immune system, even a 30 minute brisk walk a day can activate the body’s natural defence mechanisms.

4. We recommend keeping a small supply of flu medications ready available in the home. Remedies such as over the counter painkillers and vitamins, it is a good idea to always keep a thermometer handy and rest is the best cure.

5. Swapping coffee for hot tea! Not only can hot tea help chest congestion and sooth a sore throat it also contains antioxidants called catechins, which have flu fighting properties. There are also some great natural remedies for seasonal flu such as honey and lemon, citrus fruits such as oranges.

Garlic is another popular remedy.

KEEPING WELL THIS FLU SEASON

43

WIPED AFTER WORK?...

Here are some handy tips for you to STAY ENERGISED all day long.

Give yourself an Olympic-quality energy boost to make the most out of your day after work. Co-Founder of Revvies, John NolanNeylan, shares some tips to give you the energy you need from 5pm onwards in the dark winter days.

Darker days As the days are shorter and the temperature drops, many of us will begin to find it harder to roll out of bed in the mornings, but even harder to keep our energy levels up after work during the dark evenings. Darker days disrupt our circadian rhythms - our internal body clocks - and our bodies may also produce more melatonin, which is a hormone that regulates our sleep-wake cycle and encourages us to fall asleep. Add that to a day of hard work, and it's not hard to see how many people are struggling to keep their eyes open from 5pm onwards. So, while it may be more difficult to spend more time in the daylight to stay sharp and energised, here are some tips from John Nolan-Neylan, CoFounder of Revvies Energy Strips, to help keep you feeling fresh and full of energy in the coming weeks, even after work:

Take a power nap A power nap is just that - powerful! Research shows that you can make yourself more alert, reduce stress, and improve cognitive functioning with a nap, particularly around the middle of the day. A power nap is especially effective if you've not managed to get a good night of sleep - even a short, 20-minute nap will re-energise you and help you to power through the end of the working day and beyond.

Have an appetite for energy Revvies energy strips Revvies Energy Strips are the perfect quick pick me up to help you perform at your peak.

Used by professional sports teams and Olympic athletes, you can take them without any water for a convenient and rapid boost of energy. Taking a Revvies strip in a moment of fatigue, or just at the end of the working day, will give you the alertness and energy you need to help you make the most of your evenings!

44

Stay Energised

Stay Energised

45

Go for a run/exercise Most people would assume that going for a run or doing some exercise when you're tired will make you even more tired... believe it or not, pushing yourself to go for a little run can in-fact wake you up and give you a second boost of energy. Exercise releases potent feelgood hormones like endorphins, which can help keep your energy levels topped up for hours. Even a short 20-30-minute home-based workout after work will leave you feeling good all evening.

Have some 'mindful' me time, and meditate Practicing mindfulness, and particularly engaging in a simple meditation practice, has been linked to a host of cognitive benefits. Allowing yourself some time to relax, quiet the mind, and focus on regular, smooth breathing can boost the brain's executive functions, reduce impulsive and emotional behaviour, improve mood, and leave you feeling energised. This is an especially effective technique after a draining workday to achieve a productive, feel-good evening.

Organise your time to make the most out of your day...

The benefits of organising your day are simple - being more organised and achieving your goals gives you a great sense of satisfaction, and gives you more time to reap the rewards of the other tips on this list! Being able to effectively plan your day will help you to boost your productivity - both at work and at home - and enable you to take the me time, nap time and exercise time needed to live an energy-filled life.

John Nolan-Neylan Co-Founder of Revvies, discusses the importance of keeping our energy levels consistent throughout the day, and how Revvies keeps elite level triathletes and Olympians charged to perform:

"Staying sharp and energised throughout the day is a challenge at the best of times, but as the days get shorter and we find ourselves spending hours of the day in darkness, it can become very difficult to stay energised and boosted, particularly after a hard day's work.

Fortunately, there are some simple tips to keep your energy levels high throughout the day and evening, even in winter - power naps, mindfulness and quality exercise are sure-fire ways to give yourself a little pick-me-up. Revvies energy strips are another fantastic way to remain energised and alert - used by elite athletes and sportspeople across the globe, Revvies is the fastest and most convenient way to experience a great boost of energy, without the hassle and side effects of sugary energy drinks and gels."

INCLUDE plenty of fruit and veg ...

Not only is regular physical activity good for our heart health, but it can also alleviate stress.

It is recommended that adults get 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity each week, such as brisk walking. When we feel stressed, we may tell ourselves we are too busy to exercise. However, physical activity does not have to be a time-consuming chore.

Incorporating small changes to increase our daily steps can improve our overall mental and physical health. You could start by making small changes, such as parking at the furthest point away from the shop entrance in the car park, getting off the bus a stop early, or leaving your office during your lunch break to take a walk.

ALSO INCLUDE lean sources of protein in your lunches ...

Foods that are high in protein can help you to feel full for longer and this can prevent you from snacking on less healthy foods during the day. Lean sources of protein include grilled skinless chicken or turkey, canned tuna, soybeans, tofu and low-fat dairy products.

46

HEALTHY LUNCHES

Healthy Lunches...

Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip, written by Dr Helen Flaherty, Head of Health Promotion at Heart Research UK Lunch is an important meal for providing the energy and nutrients required to get you through the afternoon. On busy days, it is easy to grab lunch on the go without thinking too much about whether it is good for you. The key to a healthy lunch is to get a good variety of foods that will provide you with the nutrients you need to stay healthy. We have some tips for adding some heart healthy lunches to your weekly meal plan.

Plan your lunches in advance Planning meals in advance will allow you to put a little more thought into what you are eating as well as saving you time and money. Try creating a weekly meal plan before the start of the week and shop for the ingredients you need in advance. If possible, prepare your lunch the night before or in the morning as this can stop you from filling up on less healthy foods when you feel hungry.

Keep it simple There are some quick and simple ways to prepare a healthy lunch without spending hours in the kitchen. Try cooking large quantities of home-made soup or stews and store single portions in the freezer. Simple meals, such as baked beans on wholemeal toast or wholemeal pita stuffed with hummus and salad are also quick and easy to prepare. On busy days, you could heat up leftovers from the night before to save time.

STICK with wholegrain ...

Wholegrain foods provide a good source of fibre, which is good for your heart. Try to regularly include a portion of wholegrain food in your lunches, such as brown bread, wholemeal pita, wholemeal pasta or brown rice.

HEALTHY LUNCHES

47

Just

The Basics

Model: Volvo V60 D4 R-Design Pro Price: ÂŁ40,210 Engine: 2.0 litre 190hp 4 cylinder diesel engine Pictures: Volvo Car UK

Drive...

e light beaming into my eyes was bright. Too bright. A cold harsh light that stopped me seeing the owner of the voice.

"So you don't own a smart phone?"

"N-no, my friend" I stuttered.

"Nor do you own a smart watch?"

I shook my head.

"I suppose you must own a tablet?"

"Well, the doctor gave me a dozen for hayfever " I sneezed.

"Which didn't work" I added.

"So I must conclude" said the voice in a sneering tone, "That for you, Volvo's ground-breaking technological connectivity as found in the new V60 - a second generation marvel of automotive design - is utterly wasted and that, therefore, your credentials for even beginning to assess the cars worth amount to nothing. Am I right?"

By this stage beads of sweat were trickling down my forehead while the combination of bright light and unsympathetic interrogation was working to induce a state of mesmerised panic. I felt like a furry rabbit frozen to the spot in the remorseless glare of oncoming doom.

At this point the neighbours cockerell woke me up. That was when I knew the time had come to phone a friend. A real friend that is. Not the fiend friend of my nightmare .

Later that morning Tommy Tickle literally rolled up. He had just acquired one of those new-fangled electric scooters that are at present making life interesting for Parisian pedestrians. He was trying it out on the leafy boulevards adjoining my palatial manor house.

48

Motoring Review

Volvo V60 D4 R-Design Pro "Mind the car" I shouted - alarmed at his apparent lack of control. But he stopped, grinned and admired the V60 while I briefed him. I explained that even though I retained all the confidence befitting an expert motorist in matters relating to judging the qualities of a car as we know it, I remained lamentably ignorant regarding computerised connectivity, therefore I was prepared to defer to his judgement on these developments. At the same time I was most eager to subject myself - courtesy of his good nature - to an illuminating tutorial on the workings of the new technology from which I might emerge able to tell the difference between an app and an apostrophe, or even if it came to it, an android and an adenoid.

At this juncture, dear reader, I can confidently tell you that the 2.0 litre 190hp 4 cylinder diesel engine and 8 speed automatic transmission with drive modes ranging from comfort to sport, combine to give one of the very best powertrains in the business.

Smooth, quiet, torquey and quick (near 140 mph should you be wickedly inclined) it continues to surprise by returning between 46-52 mpg.

Examine the V60 closely and you will realise that it's beauty is more than skin deep. Smart thinking oozes from every pore of the coolly-contoured, svelte musculature. They may call it an estate car, even a compact estate car, or indeed a compact premium estate car - but there's no escaping the fact that it could pass for an upmarket coupe. And even though it shares a platform with other Volvos, it is never at the expense of individuality. The V60 makes its own persuasive statement.

"It just looks fabulous" said Tommy.

It was time to give it a go. I made sure Tommy was comfortable while I reached for the handbook to pass to him for technical guidance. After all this is a car that offers amongst other delights, an active digital display, a Clean Zone air quality system, a Sensus 9 inch touchscreen, climate control (of the sort the planet could do with no doubt) ... not to mention a sound system option entertaining occupants with no fewer than fifteen speakers. The number is correct. It is neither a slip of the pen or an errant tap on the keyboard.

But what a lovely, cleanly-designed, comfortable and well kitted-out cabin.

Driver visibility is of the 'captains bridge' sort. You can see your way clear to delight. And there is wood too. What Volvo call Drift Wood inlays: not that the timber has the appearance of having just drifted in on the tide. Considered, tasteful deployment of subtle but enlivening embellishments enhance the experience for occupants.

There was no need in the end to pass the handbook to Tommy, for with the adept fingers of the true 'tekkie'' he needed no advice on getting the hang of the systems. I looked sideways. He was as happy as the day is long. Rather than ask questions and subject myself to matters of the head scratching variety which, I confess, had been my intention - I decided to enjoy what I enjoy doing best.. That is driving.

Although I feared that the intrusion of a plethora of driving aids would dampen my ardour at the wheel, I have to report that one of the most advanced modern cars yet (and safest too, since 'Volvo' is a byword for safety) retained much that is traditional in driving pleasures.

By Syd Taylor Motoring Reviewer

In short, this is a car that goes as it should and it comes very close to being the best one can imagine of a car. All this and huge luggage capacity too. It's the gift that keeps on giving. And no: for a car of this class it isn't prohibitively expensive. As Tommy said.

"Just think. I could cancel my TV subscription packages and just about afford one of these at ÂŁ40,210. TV is make believe, but this is real."

That night I dreamt of golden showers lifting to reveal an empty open road. A rainbow bridged the sky and across its coloured bands the words 'Volvo V60' shone with iridescence. There was hope for the planet after all!

Motoring Review

49

TRAIN TO TEACH Train to Teach in Telford with e Severn Teaching School Alliance!

The Severn Teaching School Alliance is based in Telford, and offers Primary (4-11) and Early Years (37) Initial Teacher Training in conjunction with the University of Chester, via the School Direct route.

To be eligible to apply for our one year course candidates need to have an honours degree in any subject at 2:2 or above, plus GCSE 4-9 or equivalent in English, Maths and Science – or be well on the way to achieving these qualifications. Successful completion of the course provides candidates with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). The course is full time for one academic year and candidates can apply for a student loan to cover their course fees. There are various grants and loans available to support with living costs while you train.

Train to Teach in Telford with e Severn Teaching School Alliance!

“It’s been amazing to make the transition from teaching assistant to confident teacher in just one year!”

Deborah, former STSA Associate Teacher

Severn Teaching School are now recruiting for September 2021. Trainees can look forward to a comprehensive training year which will include two contrasting placements in Telford schools in two different key stages - Special school placements are available if candidates have an interest in pursuing a career within that sector. As your knowledge and confidence increases so does your teaching time – by the end of the year you will be fully immersed in school life and ready to start your full time teaching career!

“I am so pleased I chose STSA. I enjoyed the whole experience; I made wonderful friends and learned all I needed. I’m fully equipped to start a successful career.”

Training sessions are delivered in Telford by trainers who are not only experts in their particular field but also familiar with local schools. The University of Chester provide the academic sessions – these too take place in Telford with the whole cohort working together.

Steve, former STSA Associate Teacher

A large proportion of our Associate Teachers secured permanent employment in Telford schools following successful completion of the course last year, with others securing employment in neighbouring authorities.

Lola, former STSA Associate Teacher.

“I started the course knowing I really wanted to do it, I finished knowing that I could do it!”

“STSA equip NQTs well for the demands of the job and are the only students we would consider having” – a local head teacher

Interested? Why not get in touch with us to find out more.

We hold regular online information sessions, you can find details of these on our website -

www.severnteachingschool.co.uk

You can also call or email with enquiries 01952 387237 or info@severnteachingschool.co.uk

Train To Teach in Telford

TwoJays Corner

TwoJays Corner Antiques & Vintage Nov Dec 2_Full Page Bleed New 13/10/2020 16:17 Page 1

ANTIQUES & VINTAGE TwoJaysCornerAntiquesVintage

Twitter @TwoJaysCorner

www.twojayscorner.com

AN T & V IQUE S MA INTAG KE E GR

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! 10.30am to 4:00pm Everyday

UN IQ EAT GIF UE TS. ..

TWOJAYS CORNER ANTIQUES AND VINTAGE...

Has been trading for 15 years. We stock an eclectic mix of antiques and vintage for the home and garden. We have been an active member of The House of Upcycling association since its conception. We take great pride in rescuing old and abused antiques and vintage furniture items by either renovation or upcycling. We also maintain a sustainable business whenever which of course Antiques shops have done for many many years.

Find us down Lamledge Lane, Shifnal...

Tel: 01952 462340 or 07949385618

UNIT 21C SHIFNAL INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, LAMLEDGE LANE, SHIFNAL, SHROPSHIRE, TF11 8SD. At the entrance of the industrial estate keep left, then you will find us at the end on the right.

Email: info@twojayscorner.com

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