Your Local Monthly Magazine - delivered to 30,000 homes in and around Telford
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magazine WWW.INANDAROUNDMAGAZINE.CO.UK
ISSUE 155 - DECEMBER 2017 / JANUARY 2018
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3
BEAUTY & FASHION
6 Tis The Season To Party 12 Christmas Gift Ideas
FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT
16 18 24
Recipe: Chocolate And Walnut Biscotti Bottoms Up! Let's Toast This Terrific Tasting Hobby How to Plan for the Boxing Day Sales
PROPERTY
32 What is 'Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard'?
CHILDREN, EDUCATION & ACTIVITIES
34 37 38
Helping Your Child To Become Money Savvy Take Extra Care of Your Pets this Christmas Quality Gifts That Won't Break the Bank
HEALTH & FITNESS
41 42 44 46
New Football Team Gets Local Sponsorship Fighting Colds and Flu: Myths and Magic Cures Stressful Hospital Journeys Soft Tissue Injuries
GARDENS & OUTDOORS
Welcome to the latest edition of ‘In and Around’. Your LOCAL magazine, helping you to find businesses and services in and around your area.
DIRECTOR Fleur Abel
T: 01952 603457 E: fleur@inandaroundmagazine.co.uk
I would like wish all my advertisers and readers a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!! Thank you for your continued support!
Enjoy your read...
M: 0785 44 70 343 E: kate@inandaroundmagazine.co.uk
COMMUNITY & WHAT’S ON
92 Movies - Coming Soon 95 Gift Inspiration
A41
nA
Distributio
Lilleshall
The Humbers A442
Bratton
A5223 M54
Oakengates
St Georges
Red Lake
J6
Lawley & Overdale
Booking/Copy deadline for the JANUARY 2018 issue is Tuesday 12th December 2017
homes
Hadley A442 Ketley
J7
30,000
Trench
Leegomery
Wellington A5
Muxton Donnington Wood
Apley
Admaston
Total distribution
A518
Donnington
Shawbirch
The Rock
Lawley Village A5223
Lightmoor Village
J5
Old Park Lawley Bank
M54
Dawley
A464
Shifnal
A442
Stirchley Aqueduct
Madeley
Total distribution to 30,000 homes across 2 months. 15,000 copies are delivered to Area A one month and then the next month to another 15,000 homes in Area B, so each area receives the magazine once every other month.
A41
J4
A464
Dawley Bank
A4169
Ironbridge
A5
Priorslee
Horsehay
www.inandaroundmagazine.co.uk 4
Newport Church Aston
ine’ und Magaz ‘In and Aro reas
Mercedes-AMG GT C Coupe Edition 50 Mercedes: Just What Do All Those Letters Mean?
The Christmas Technology Survival Guide Retirement: Time To Call In The Builders? Last Post 2017
Edgmond
Tibberton
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL
72 82 86
Kate Dalgliesh
AREA A
MOTORS & LEISURE
HOME INTERIORS
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Fleur
HOME INTERIORS
Should You Invest In Stocks And Shares, And If So, How Do You Start? New Technologies To Help You Make A Green Exit
M: 07807 648 689
E: amanda@inandaroundmagazine.co.uk
Please continue to support our LOCAL businesses by using their services where possible.
54 Christmas Elegance 58 Scandi Winter Trends
64 68
Amanda Weston
This magazine has helped many local businesses to grow by building their awareness with local people, if you have your own business and would like a little help to find more local customers then please get in touch to see what we can do for your business.
48 Get Real This Christmas 52 The History of Christmas Traditions
60 62
ADVERTISING SALES
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AREA B PRINTED BY:
Precision Colour Printing Ltd, Haldane, Halesfield 1, Telford, Shropshire TF7 4QQ We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in In and Around Magazine, and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Any reproduction of any material is forbidden without the written consent of the publishers. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for views expressed by contributors, or for the accuracy of claims made by advertisers.
BEAUTY & FASHION
New Body-Jet® Treatment comes to Cedar House Clinic The Cedar House Clinic is a leading independent medical aesthetic clinic, located in the beautiful county of Shropshire. We specialise in surgical and non-surgical cosmetic treatments for the face and body, undertaken by our highly skilled team of consultant surgeons and practitioners. With treatments ranging from Dermal Fillers and Anti-Wrinkle injections to Breast Augmentation and Rhinoplasty Cedar House Clinic is a name you can trust. We are proud to have our own onsite, state-of-the-art theatre, where a range of cosmetic procedures are proficiently performed under local anaesthesia, sedation and general anaesthesia by our team of leading Consultant Surgeons. We welcome clients from all over the UK and offer a discreet, out of town clinic location, being conveniently situated on Shrewsbury Business Park, with easy access to and from all major motorway links.
All about… Body-Jet®
Stubborn small areas of fat which resist all attempts at removal by diet and fitness alone can be treated with body sculpting procedures at Cedar House Clinic Body-jet® liposuction is a gentle form of fat removal, causing less trauma than more traditional methods of lipo. This water-jet assisted procedure washes away the fat without damaging blood vessels and nerves and because it’s so gentle, it makes the recovery time and any swelling and bruising far less than with traditional liposuction techniques.
The Procedure
You will have the area to be treated marked out by your doctor, then after a small injection of local anaesthetic, a tiny incision will be made and a special cannula will be inserted under the skin with a pulsating action, to introduce local anaesthetic and saline solution into the fat pad. The pressure of the fluid breaks up the fat, so more can be removed than with traditional liposuction.
This makes it ideal for body sculpting in specific areas for example the tummy, thighs or bottom. Finally, the solution is suctioned off, together with the unwanted fat cells, the incision is stitched and covered with a dressing and a compression garment. There will be some swelling and bruising, but you should be able to return to normal activities within a few days. It is a minimally invasive treatment using local anaesthetic and involves little recovery time. Just a day’s rest is advised and bruising can take a few weeks to disappear. A compression garment must be worn post procedure.
Why Should I Choose Body-Jet® Over Traditional Liposuction?
Every person and their needs are different and we would always recommend discussing your options in detail with our Surgeon. However the key difference is the short recovery time which is far less after body-jet® liposuction than it is after traditional lipo. The body is less traumatised and the swelling and bruising are minimal.
How Quickly Will I Recover?
There will be some swelling and bruising, but you should be able to return to normal activities within a few days. It is a minimally invasive treatment using local anaesthetic and involves little recovery time. Just a day’s rest is advised and bruising can take a few weeks to disappear.
What Results Can I Expect With Body-Jet®?
You can expect a firmer, toned body, minus the stubborn areas of fat, with the same results as traditional liposuction yet a safer method, as it is less traumatic and can be carried out under local anaesthetic. Cedar House Clinic prides itself on its highly skilled Surgeon who can pinpoint exactly the right treatment for each patient. We take time at your one hour consultation to work through all the options with you.
The Cost From £3500 Garments to be purchased separately. Call 01743 271 404 to book your consultation now
Don’t get your tinsel in a tangle this Christmas, say goodbye to love handles and hello to a new you with bodyjet.
Cedar House Clinic, Shrewsbury Business Park, Shropshire SY2 6LG 01743 271404 www.cedarhouseclinic.co.uk
5
Tis the Season Handbag essentials to transform you from frazzled office worker to fabulous partygoer in minutes. Work deadlines plus shopping, wrapping, cooking and dealing with family life can leave you feeling rather frazzled. Try
Tisserand De-Stress Mist to keep a spritz of the
tension
down.
The
blend of calming essential oils, including geranium, orange,
nutmeg,
rose
and jasmine smells lovely and really does seem to help soothe the senses.
TO PARTY
bushy arch à la Lily Collins or something a bit more streamlined, a good brow pencil is invaluable.
High Definition’s Browtec Pencil is a great choice. It has a fine, retractable tip so you can achieve precise
strokes; it’s topped with a brush; and the colour stays put all day. £16 from www.beautyinhighdefinition.com.
High Definition has also released a Limited Edition Copper Eyeshadow Palette that’s definitely deserving of a place in your arsenal. The rose gold, copper and bronze shades work beautifully together to create a look that’s perfect for parties. The three shades come with a mirror and double-headed brush, all housed in a very compact case. £23.50, www.beautyinhighdefinition.com.
Not keen on sprays? The blend
is
also
available
DeStress Mist is priced at £8.95 and the De-Stress Rollerball at £5.95, from as a roller-ball. The
www.tisserand.com. Dry, chapped lips are not a good look and matte lipsticks often highlight the problem.
Clarins’ Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector is a great alternative. It’s available in several shades and leaves lips feeling soft, hydrated and plumped, while
adding a touch of colour and shine. It is more of a gloss than a lipstick, so the colour and shine won’t last for hours,
Don’t fancy carrying your makeup loose in your handbag? Christmas is the perfect time to treat yourself to a new cosmetics bag. On a bit of a tight budget? Lots of gift sets have a case included for free, or check out TK Maxx for luxury options at a fraction of the price. Pencil cases also do the job just as well, with the added advantage of often being waterproof. The
Paperchase Glamingo Pencil
Case is just £7. The extra pocket at the front is perfect for
makeup brushes and other extras. See www.paperchase. co.uk.
but it’s well worth the extra applications. A full-sized Lip Perfector is £18, but if you’re quick you may be able to snap up a mini one for a bargain price with one of Clarins’ Christmas giftsets, see www. clarins.co.uk. You can’t have failed to notice that brows are having their moment in the spotlight. Whether you prefer a bold
6
by Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk
BEAUTY & FASHION
We would like to take this opportuniy to thank you for your custom, friendship & support throughout the year. We would also like to wish you a very
Merry Christmas and a
Prosperous New Year We look forward to seeing you in the New Year. Best wishes Gary and the team at U2
Meet the team from the top Taylor, Jack, Susan, Nikki and Mel
T: 01952 605216
2 Albert Place, Donnington, Telford TF2 8AF
Awesome Hair by Karen Experienced Freelance Hairdresser
Operating mobile to your home or visit my secret salon
Find us on Instagram & Facebook: U2 Hair & Tanning
Beauty by Jude
ALL IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME CND Shellac goes on like a polish but wears like a gel. A 14 day glorious high gloss shine with zero dry time, no nail damage and can be removed in around 10 minutes.
GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE call for details
Ladies Trained in: and Gents • Precision Cutting hairdressing since 1978 • Blow Drying / Setting • Permanent Waving • All Types of Colouring (including Colour Correction) All services carried out following a comprehnsive consultation
Call or text KAREN on 07970 901375
Shellac Nails £18 per set
ALSO AVAILABLE... • Lash Lift & Tint • Lash & Brow Tinting • Full Leg, Half Leg, Bikini, Underarm & Facial Waxing • Back & Shoulder Massage • Indian Head Massage • Manicure & Pedicure • Facial Treatments
Ladies
Pamper Evenings Available from £10 Per Person Call for details
CALL JUDE INGRAM ON 07814 671 848 See Facebook for the latest offers: beautybyjudeathome
7
8 8. Dorothy Perkins
One Shoulder Dress - see in store or online for prices Dorothy Perkins
Loop Detail Sandals £65. Lipsy
Black Dress £49. Star by Julian MacDonald at Debenhams
in Dress £3
Silver Sequ
Black
Sequin
rkins
8. Dor othy P e
Dress £3
Chandelier Earrings £12. Oasis
One Shoulder Sequin Dress £69. Miss Selfidge
Party Time!
Dazzling Dresses
Clutch Bag £75. Dune
Gold Dress £99. Miss Selfridge
Red Dress £55. River Island.
BEAUTY & FASHION
Black Lace Shift Dress £55. Wallis
Embellished Metallic Flapper Dress £150 Miss Selfridge
Model wears Burton - see in store or online for prices
Model wears Burton - see in store or online for prices
9
SOCIAL LIFE
Heaven Skincare by Deborah Mitchell of Shifnal celebrated their annual awards with several hundred guests & celebrities in association with Casino 36 Wolverhampton this year, to award Heaven partners from both Britain and International. A fabulous ceremony with delicious food and an evening of live bands, black jack, roulette and dancing. Everyone escaped to the action.
10
BEAUTY & FASHION
Before
For your FREE half face trial call to book an appointment at the Flagship Heaven Salon in Shifnal. (If you love it, pay for the other side)
After
...or book your HALF PRICE non-surgical liposuction, Lipolis7.
Before
After
GIFT VOUCHERS: Buy a gift of time... Visit heaven spa and be treated like an angel. Vouchers can be used for treatments or products See the smile on your loved ones face when you give them something they want.
Perfect Christmas Gift Idea
A BEE STING FACIAL Using natural products and the first of its kind. This unique treatment has been specially created using natural and organic ingredients including ABEETOXINÂŽ, combined to work in synergy for an instant anti-ageing effect, leaving you looking and feeling instantly younger.
13a Market Place | Shifnal | Shropshire TF11 9AU.
Salon: 01952 461888. E: salon@heavenskincare.com
11
Take the Stress Out of Shopping with Our Christmas Gift Guide
Christmas shopping is not easy, and there are far better things to be doing at this time of year other than stressing about what to buy for everyone that’s on your gift list. That’s why we have decided to do the hard work for you and scour the high street to bring you our Christmas Gift Guide, that’s filled with presents that are sure to delight even the most hardto-buy-for recipient.
For Her...
Pegasus Power Bank £15. River Island
Cath Kidston Sock Gift Set £40. House of Fraser
Too Faced Love Light Highlighter £25. Debenhams
Bayliss and Harding Prosecco and Cassis Candle £8.99. Argos Ted Baker Watch £135. John Lewis
National Trust Afternoon Tea Set £25. Debenhams
YSL Mon Paris eau de toilette 50ml £71. House of Fraser
Limited Edition Bee Rich Kit 9 different kits to choose from for only £91 (Normal price £196) All available at www.heavenskincare.com
12
Game of Thrones Monopoly £30. Debenhams Shave Set £10. Debenhams
Santa Christmas Jumper £25. Jack and Jones
TW Steel Military Strap Watch £278.99. Argos
M4M - 'Moisturising for Men' Men’s Anti Ageing Moisturiser 50ml - £64.00 Available at www.heavenskincare.com
For Him…
Ralph Lauren Socks £35. House of Fraser
Bulldog Skincare Set for Men £14.99. Argos Gentlemen's Tool Kit £17. House of Fraser
Jean Paul Gaultier Le Male eau de toilette 75ml £44.99
Check Slippers £55. Barbour at House of Fraser
13
Restaurant Review
FINDING THE BEST PLACES TO EAT IN AND AROUND SHROPSHIRE
The Woodbridge Inn Coalport, Telford TF8 7JF
T: 01952 882054 The Woodbridge Inn sits prominently on the banks of the River Severn, just a mile downstream from the famous Ironbridge. The pub was built around 1785 and was named for the wooden bridge that used to connect it to the village of Coalport on the opposite bank of the river. Inside The Woodbridge is warm and welcoming, offering the perfect remedy for the colder weather at this time of year. The expansive yet charming building offers several cosy nooks and corners to hunker down in or for larger parties and festive gatherings there are plenty of larger spaces available. There is an ample car park with space for 80 cars to the rear of the pub, from which it’s just a few steps down to the bright and welcoming entrance. You really can’t help but feel the charm and warmth of Woodbridge as soon as you walk in; with expanses of polished wooden floors, comfortable rustic furniture, roaring log fires and a well stocked bar, it certainly ticks all the boxes for me! On this occasion my Mom, Lynn, was the lucky plus one. On arrival we were greeted and shown to a table by a large window overlooking the bridge and River Severn flowing below. We settled in, ordered some drinks from the bar and took a look at the menu. The menu really has something for everyone; from light bites and sandwiches, right through to a decadent three-course feast. The overall theme is British classics, with the addition of several exotic dishes and a good selection of vegetarian and gluten free options for those with specific dietary requirements. The wine list is extensive and features several ‘wine of the month’ recommendations, there is also an impressive range of tap ales, spirits, soft and hot drinks available. For starter I ordered the Chinese five spiced chicken thigh (£6.50) and Mom
14
FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT opted for the Chicken Liver Parfait (£6.25). The boneless chicken thigh was perfectly cooked; the meat was moist and juicy with the unmistakable flavour of the five spice giving a appetizing oriental flavour. It was accompanied by a crunchy Asian slaw and sweet plum chutney that complemented the spicy chicken perfectly.
and saffron dressing perfectly matched the delicate texture and flavour of the crispy sea bass.
Mom’s chicken liver parfait was served with granary toast, a plum and ginger chutney and a watercress, radish and orange salad. The parfait was smooth and tasty, the sweet and zingy plum and ginger chutney worked really well with the savoury flavour of the pate and the fresh granary toast added texture and crunch. Choosing the main course was no easy feat, as there were simply too many tempting options but in the end I plumped for the roasted red pepper, goats cheese and aubergine lasagne (£12.50). Mom went for the crispy sea bass, chickpea and chorizo salad from the light bites menu (£10.95). The lasagne arrived served with a vibrant olive and sun blushed tomato salad and slice of warm garlic bread. This lasagne was utterly delicious, the layers of aubergine, goats cheese, roasted red pepper and pasta combined perfectly to create a satisfying and flavoursome dish, I thoroughly enjoyed this take on a veggie lasagne and would highly recommend it to anyone. The sea bass salad comprised a crispy sea bass fillet sat on a bed of watercress, chickpea and chorizo salad, dressed with a saffron aioli. Being from the light bite menu the portion was ideal for my Mom, who fancied something lighter for her main course (she was clearly saving room for pudding). The salad
For dessert I couldn’t resist the Bread and Butter Pudding (£5.95) and Mom ordered the Triple Chocolate Brownie (£6.25). Our desserts arrived beautifully presented and believe me they tasted every bit as good as they looked! My bread and butter pudding had a wonderfully light and airy texture, not at all heavy or stodgy as can sometimes be the case with bread and butter pudding. It was dotted with plump, juicy sultanas throughout and drizzled with a delightful warm apricot sauce. The scoop of cool vanilla ice cream and fresh berries added an extra dimension of freshness to the dish. I thoroughly enjoyed this dessert and will definitely be saving room for it again next time I visit! The Triple chocolate brownie is literally a chocoholics dream and is also one of several gluten free options on the menu. It consisted a generous slice of irresistibly rich, gooey brownie, served with lashings of smooth chocolate sauce, a dusting of crumbly chocolate and a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. Mom commented that this dessert was literally heaven in a dish, which says it all really! We both had a thoroughly enjoyable evening at The Woodbridge Inn, in addition to the wonderful food we enjoyed, The Woodbridge has such a lovely welcoming atmosphere, that once settled in we hardly wanted to leave.
Reviewed by Charlie Scott & Lynn Roulston
The Woodbridge Inn Coalport • Telford • TF8 7JF
T: 01952 882054 Christmas / New Year Day
Christmas Eve Christmas Day Boxing Day New Year's Eve New Year's Day
Opening Times
11:30am - 10:30pm 11:30am - 4:00pm 11:30am - 5:00pm 11:30am - 1:00am 11:30am - 5:00pm
Food Served
PLEASE CALL OR GO ONLINE TO BOOK
12:00 - 9:30pm 12:00 - 2:30pm 12:00 - 4:00pm 12:00 - 10:00pm 12:00 - 4:00pm
www.woodbridge-coalport.co.uk Normal Opening Times:
Food Served:
Mon to Thu 11:30am - 11pm Fri to Sat 11:30am - 12 midnight Sun 11:30am - 10.30pm
Mon to Thu 12:00 - 9:30pm Fri to Sat 12:00 - 10:00pm Sun 12:00 - 9:00pm 15
Recipe
CHOCOLATE & WALNUT BISCOTTI
These crunchy Italian biscuits are perfect for dunking into a festive coffee or serving as an after dinner treat. They also make a great foodie gift packed into clear gift bags and tied with ribbon and a Christmas label!
Makes 20 Ready in 1 hour, plus cooling time INGREDIENTS: • 50g unsalted butter, softened • 100g golden caster sugar • 1 medium egg, beaten • Finely grated zest from 1 orange • 50g dark chocolate chips • 50g walnut pieces • 1/2 tsp baking powder • 175g plain flour, plus extra for kneading
1. Preheat the oven to 180C, fan 160C, Gas 4. Cream the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl until pale and fluffy, then beat in the egg and orange zest. 2. Sift over the baking powder and flour and stir well until combined. Turn the mixture out onto a lightly floured surface and knead to a soft dough, adding a little more flour if necessary. 3. Divide the dough into two pieces and shape each to an oval shape roughly 20cm x 10 cm. Place on a large baking sheet and flatten slightly. Bake for 20-25 minutes until firm and light golden. Cool for 5 minutes. 4. Transfer the two pieces of semi-baked dough to a chopping board and, using a sharp knife, cut each piece into 10 slices. 5. Return the slices, cut-side down, to the baking sheet and bake for a further 8-12 minutes until crisp and golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely.
TIP The biscotti will keep in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. You can change the nuts – try pecans, toasted almonds or hazelnuts, if preferred.
16
FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT
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Plus Exotic Zoo, Bouncy Castle, Live music, Hog Roast & coffee.
A great day out for all the family, all undercover and plenty of free parking and no entrance fee! Our biggest ever festival with over fifty of the region’s finest producers sampling and selling their products!
Free Satumas for the Kids!
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Order online or instore www.greenfieldsonline.co.uk DONNINGTON T 01952 677 345 PRIORSLEE T 01952 200 696 E info@greenfieldsonline.co.uk
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17
Bottoms Up!
LET'S TOAST THIS TERRIFIC TASTING HOBBY methods. If you’re taking up wine-tasting as a hobby, you won’t be obliged to use the specialised terminology employed by today’s professional wine-tasters and sommeliers, but you will need to follow some basic rules to help you identify the particular characteristics of the wine you are sampling.
The four stages of wine tasting The first phase in the four recognised stages of wine-tasting is appearance. The liquid is examined to see how well it reflects or refracts light, whether it is cloudy or clear, and how much the process of oxidisation over time might have affected its colour.
“Honeydew melon…a little smell of cream…it reminds you of lying in bed upstairs and having a tiny waft of someone marvellous having made you breakfast downstairs. You get that smell of toast and butter…” These are the words of wine expert Jilly Goolden, describing the aroma of a Chenin Blanc wine to a Guardian reporter at the launch of the wine-tasting courses she runs at her Sussex home. While some readers may find Jilly’s descriptions a tad over the top, most wine lovers would probably admire her ability to find so many different sensations packed into one sniff of vintage white. Since she first appeared on our TV screens in the 1980s, Jilly has waxed lyrical about wines of every age, colour and price. She believes that drinkers who simply quaff a bottle without dwelling on its finer points are “probably missing out 50% of what it [the wine] has to say to you.”
What does wine tasting involve? Wine tasting is the practice of using the senses of touch, sight and smell to evaluate different wines. It is believed that the first wines were produced in Mesopotamia - an ancient region that included present day Iraq and Kuwait together with parts of Syria and Turkey - between 4,000 and 3,000 BC. By the time of the Roman Empire, the production of wine had spread throughout the Mediterranean, even as far as the British Isles. The ancient Romans were particularly passionate about their wines, realising that the more a wine was allowed to mature, the better it tasted. They were also the first to introduce wooden barrels, glass bottles and corks to preserve the precious liquid. It’s more than likely, therefore, that the first wine tasters were slaves employed by their masters to check that wines were drinkable (and also, possibly, to ensure that they hadn’t been poisoned by their enemies!) Although unofficial methods of wine tasting have been around for thousands of years, it was not until the 14th century that more formalised ways of sampling and evaluating wines began to emerge. The rules put in place at that time have since evolved into a craft with its own precise language and
18
The wine’s smell (also known as its “nose”) is then judged. Tasters must attempt to describe the perfume it gives off, as determined by its “aromas” and “bouquets”. “Aroma” refers to the smell of the specific grape - or combination of grapes - used, while “bouquet” refers to the scent created as the wine matures. To judge the taste, swirl the wine around your mouth so your taste buds can do their work. As well as teasing out the specific flavours of the wine, you’ll be considering the amount of sweetness and/or tartness you find. You might also want to judge the amount of astringency (bitterness caused by the tannin in grape skins) you can detect. Overall, you’ll be looking for “balance” in the wine, deciding whether all its components are in harmony. The final part of the process is to consider the impression left on your tongue when you have either swallowed or used a spittoon to clear the wine from your palate. At this stage you’ll be able to tell a well-made wine by its crisp, clean finish: poor quality wines often leave a watery and insubstantial aftertaste. The best quality wines leave a “long finish”: that’s a flavour that remains in the mouth after the wine has gone.
How do I start? If you’re not sure how to kick off your wine-tasting hobby, an online search will lead you to a number of excellent courses, taking place nationwide. On the jobs and training website run by the Reed Group you’ll find a short online course costing £97 (visit the Hospitality and Catering section at reed.co.uk for details), alternatively Jilly Goolden herself runs wine-tasting afternoons under the title “The Wine Room” at £125 per person, taking place in the Ashdown Forest, East Sussex (telephone 01342 822251 or email wineroom@jillygoolden.com). As you develop confidence you’ll be able to explore some of the 400 or more commercial vineyards that operate in the UK. Visit England has a list of vineyards, many of which are open to the public, offering luxury on-site accommodation in B&Bs and self-catering accommodation so you can relax and make the most of your wine-tasting experience (visitengland.com). Whether you’re planning to become the next Jilly Goolden or simply someone who loves to explore the subtleties and complexities of wine, you’re certain to find a course or vineyard experience to suit. Bottoms up!
by Kate McLelland
FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT
‘Forever Friday’ just £3995 Make it your ‘Forever Friday’ with selected Friday’s in 2018 becoming available for the discounted price of £3995.
Package IncludeS:
Wedding
• Evening buffet or hog roast
Open Weekend
• Reception drinks for your guests
• Disco until 1.00am
• Three course meal with coffee
• Cake stand and knife
• A glass of wine to served during the meal
• Menus for your table
Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th January
• 50 day guests & 100 evening guests
• A glass of sparkling wine to be served to propose your toasts
• Complimentary bedroom for the Bride & Groom
We can happily accommodate a civil ceremony in our dartmouth or lewisham Suite for an additional charge of £325.00. additional guests can also be added on to your package at an extra charge.
See Patshull Park in its full glory at our Wedding Open Weekend. From 10.00am – 3.00pm, you are invited to view our Lakeside Suite as it would look on your wedding day. Entry is free of charge and our experienced team will be on hand to discuss your special day with you.
Call us on 01902 700100 to request a brochure Patshull Road, Pattingham Nr Wolverhampton WV6 7HR sales@patshull-park.co.uk www.patshull-park.co.uk
The Bridge Inn Lower Bar, Newport TF10 7BJ
T: 01952 324481 www.thebridgenewport.co.uk
Always a Warm Welcome
New ownership, refurbished inside and out
Bar Opening Times:
Wednesday to Sunday 12-3pm & 4.30pm-Midnight
Good Quality Local Food Served:
Wednesday to Saturday 12-2.30pm & 5-9.30pm • Sunday 12-6pm 19
Restaurant Review
FINDING THE BEST PLACES TO EAT IN AND AROUND SHROPSHIRE The Tayleur Arms
Longden Upon Tern, Telford TF6 6LJ
T: 01952 770335
The Tayleur Arms is a warm and welcoming family run pub situated in Longden Upon Tern; a lovely rural village on the outskirts of Telford. The Harvey family had to completely rebuild the pub in 2015 after a fire destroyed the previous building, the new premises are warm and inviting with plenty of country pub character both inside and out. The menu is extensive with a focus on fresh home cooked food, which is locally sourced wherever possible and also features several vegetarian and gluten free options. In addition to the main menu there is the Terrace menu which features light bites and lunches and also a kids menu. There are many other special offers and event nights available throughout the year, such as Wednesday’s all you can eat buffet, daily afternoon teas and the ever-popular Sunday carvery (booking advised). On arrival we were welcomed and shown to a lovely candlelit table in the main dining area, the interior décor features plenty of rustic stone and wood, open fires and cosy furnishings, giving a real warm and cosy feel to the place. We ordered some drinks while we perused the menu, I ordered a glass of Shiraz from the ample wine list and my husband Aaron had a soft drink, the extensive bar area is well stocked with a wide selection of traditional cask ales, beers, wines and spirits and even features a rather large and impressive barista style coffee machine. To start Aaron ordered the Soup of the Day which was leek and potato (£5.95) and I went for the Smoked Haddock Kedgeree (£6.95). Aaron’s starter comprised a bowl of thick and creamy homemade soup, a crunchy side salad and a serving of warm crusty bread and butter, he said it was really hearty and filling, definitely the perfect winter warmer.
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FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT My kedgeree was packed with flavour, the golden rice was spiced with turmeric and cardamom and had large flakes of tasty smoked fish mixed through it, it was topped with a perfectly cooked poached egg. I really enjoyed this dish, it was vibrant and flavoursome and a nice alternative to more standard starters.
After the rather generous portions provided thus far, we almost contemplated not ordering a dessert, however in the interest of providing a full and in-depth review we decided we really should soldier on and so ordered the warm chocolate chip cookies and ice-cream (£6.95) and requested 2 spoons.
For main course and after much deliberation over the many tempting choices available, I opted for the Braised Lamb Shank (£15.75) and Aaron went for the Honey Mustard Chicken (£12.45). My lamb shank was served on a bed of buttery leek mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, with a wine and redcurrant gravy. The lamb was fall off the bone tender, it was braised to perfection. The red wine and redcurrant gravy was rich with a hint of sweetness, which complemented the flavour of the lamb very well. This was a lovely wintery dish, just perfect for the colder wintry weather! The honey mustard chicken comprised a lightly char grilled chicken breast, smothered in a creamy honey and mustard sauce, it was served with a portion of fresh hand cut chips and also a crisp side salad. Aaron said that the chicken was succulent and the sauce had just the right balance of flavours, with the sweetness of the honey and the warmth of the wholegrain mustard combining well. The chips were lovely and hot, perfectly crisp on the outside with a delicious fluffy centre, I know this because (in the interest of giving a rounded review) I obviously had to try them!
After a short wait, our friendly waitress arrived with a dish arrived piled high with two large warm chocolate chip cookies sandwiching a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream, finished with a decorative sprig of mint. The cookies were absolutely delicious; warm and just the right side of gooey, the ice cream offset the sweetness with just the right balance of creamy coolness, simply a lovely indulgent treat. After eyeing the impressive looking coffee machine behind the bar earlier we decide to finish our meal with a caffeine kick, I went for the Italian liqueur coffee with amaretto and Aaron went for the cappuccino, both were excellent coffees and the perfect ending to a delicious meal. We both thoroughly enjoyed our evening out at the Tayleur Arms, the pub offers quality home cooked food, a warm and friendly atmosphere all in a fabulous rural setting, so do give them a call book in and try it out for yourself soon, you wont be disappointed.
Reviewed by Charlie & Aaron Scott
The Tayleur Arms Longdon Upon Tern, Telford TF6 6LJ T: 01952 770335 E: info@tayleurarms.co.uk
TheTayleurArms
SPECIAL OFFER 10% OFF YOUR BILL
Includes food and drink when ordering of the main menu, excludes cream teas and xmas fayre) Valid until 31-12-17 (Please present this advert)
Food serving times: Mon to Fri 12-2:30pm & 5:30-9:30pm Sat 12-9:30pm Sun 12-5:30pm
www.tayleurarms.co.uk
CHRISTMAS FAYRE Available During December
1 course £11.50 • 2 courses £15.75 3 courses £18.95
CHRISTMAS
AFTERNOON TEAS Mulled wine, warm mince pie, scones & cream, mini hand made cakes and open sandwiches. from £13.95pp (booking essential)
OVER 50'S SPECIAL 5th/6th & 12th/13th December 2 courses £7.95 • 3 courses £11.95 • 4 courses £16.95 21
THE
WHITE HOUSE HOTEL MUXTON
Wellington Road, Muxton, Telford TF2 8NG Food Served: 12pm - 9:30pm 7 days a week
T: 01952 603603 Lunchtime SAVER
15% off
Main Courses in the Bar or Restaurant (12-4pm Mon-Sat)
Visit our website to view our latest menu
www.whhotel.co.uk
2 Steaks & Wine for ONLY £25 (available everyday) 2 Succulent Prime Rump Steaks with a Bottle of House Wine
Tuesday & Thursday Treat yourself Tuesday for the over 60’s,
62 High Street Newport TF10 7AQ
Food served 10-3pm
50%from OFF FOOD the Main menu.
Friday
Fish Supper, Fish, chips and mushy peas with a soft or hot drink for
Only £6.99
Booking recommended.
T: 01952 820 810 DJ on Friday & Saturday nights
Look out for live music! Ideal venue for Birthdays parties, Christenings, etc..
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Christmas Lunch, turkey or beef, roasties, vegetables, stuffing and gravy. 2 main meals for £13 See Christmas specials board. Serving Mulled Wine in December.
www.thebarleynewport.co.uk
FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT
Christmas & New Year Festive Afternoon Tea
Served 2-4pm @ £15.95pp or with Fizz £20.95pp
Festive Lunches
2 Courses £15.95pp or 3 Courses £19.95pp
Festive Dinner
Sun - Wed (3 Course Dinner only) £25.95pp, Thu £29.50pp
Festive Party Nights
Includes 3 Course Festive Dinner with Tea/Coffee, Mince Pies and Disco. £25.00pp Sun - Wed, £29.50pp Thu, £35.00pp Fri-Sat
New Year's Eve Dinner
£95 includes 5 Course Dinner, Disco, Fireworks & Piper
Cabaret Nights in December
Stay Overnight (includes breakfast) £89 double / £79 single (T&C's apply)
Wedding Open Days
Thu 14th - Soul & Motown Sun 17th - Gary Barlow Thu 21st - 80's Night 3 Course Meal with Tea/Coffee and Mince Pies £29.50pp
7th, 14th and 21st January 2018 Pop in and view our conservatory dressed for a wedding. No appointment needed. 12 noon – 3pm
Hadley Park House Telford TF1 6JQ
Post-Christmas Party Bash
19th January 2018 Can’t celebrate in December? Join our post-Christmas party for 3 course dinner, crackers, novelties & disco. £25 per person
01952 677269
info@hadleypark.co.uk
www.hadleypark.co.uk 23
How to Plan Boxing Day is generally regarded as the biggest sales day of the year in the retail industry, so if you’re heading to the shops it’s worthwhile taking time to plan well in advance. A practical approach will help you focus on the best deals and take advantage of the fact that goods will be at a fraction of their normal price. One of the major problems of sales shopping is the sheer number of offers available, and it’s very easy to be distracted once you start. So what steps can you take in advance to help you get the most out of your day, and also protect your finances for the year ahead?
Before you start high street or online shopping • Find out the store opening times before you go - they vary on Boxing Day, with some shops remaining closed. You can find this information from a store’s website and social media pages, along with details of the items that might be included in the sale. • If you’re shopping online, save the home page of each store into your computer, along with the product codes of any items you’re interested in. This enables you buy quickly, as soon as the goods are available. • Check out the returns policy for each store as you may have to pay for the returns postage and packing yourself. If you’re shopping on the high street you need to keep all your receipts, and the store’s returns policy should be printed on the back.
Planning your spending According to the Centre for Retail Research¹, the total Christmas spend per household in 2016 was £809.97. Even if you don’t spend this much on Christmas, it’s an expensive time of year when you also factor in credit card bills for the sales. If you’re not able to repay the balance at the end of the month, you may find the savings you’ve made are suddenly reduced. So what can you do to alleviate the strain on your finances and make sure you don’t find yourself in unmanageable debt in the New Year? • Stay within your budget Calculate how much you can afford to spend on Boxing Day, and stick to it. By focusing only on the items you want, you won’t overstretch yourself financially. • Use comparison websites to find the best price Compare prices online before you head out to the shops if there’s something in particular you’re looking for – this can save a lot of time and money. • Be wary of signing up for store cards Signing up for a store card at the till can seem like a good idea. You access further reductions on the cost but interest rates on these cards can be extremely high, so it may not be worthwhile doing so in the long-run.
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FOR THE BOXING DAY SALES Pay off more than just the minimum amount Paying off only the minimum amount from your credit card each month means your sales purchases will cost significantly more than anticipated. Banks and credit card providers set the minimum amount as a percentage of the balance, so as you repay, this minimum required payment drops. This not only increases profits for the banks but adds considerably to your debt in the long-term, and can be the start of serious financial problems – not an ideal situation when you consider the items were purchased with a view to saving money.
Are 0% interest credit cards a good idea? Balance transfer cards offering 0% interest for a fixed period of time are a good way to deal with large purchases. If you buy the goods on your ‘standard’ credit card and then transfer the balance over you can save a significant amount in interest, but there are also potential drawbacks: • If you miss a single payment on a 0% credit card, the provider will withdraw their offer and you’re likely to be charged an extremely high rate of interest in its place. • Fees are charged when you originally transfer a balance – usually a percentage of the amount transferred. • Credit card providers are often owned by larger banking institutions, and it’s unlikely you’ll be accepted for a balance transfer offer if you already hold a card connected to the group. At the time of writing, the best 0% balance transfer deals include: • Barclaycard: up to 40 months, with a fee of 1.68% (you’re not guaranteed 40 months at 0%, however). • MBNA: up to 39 months with a 1.48% fee (as with the Barclaycard example above, there is no guarantee that you’ll be offered the full 39-month term). • Sainsbury’s: 33 months, guaranteed if accepted, 0.59% fee plus £20 cash back. • Virgin Money: 30 months guaranteed on acceptance, with a fee of 0.55%. Whether you’re purchasing a specific item or buying birthday presents for the year ahead, the Boxing Day sales represent a great way to save money. Planning ahead helps you stay in control of your spending in the face of temptation, and manage your finances without entering serious debt. www.retailresearch.org/shoppingforxmas.php www.moneysavingexpert.com/credit-cards/balance-transfer-credit-cards www.express.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/747790/Chrsitmas-sales-UKBoxing-Day-sales-January-deals-discounts www.yourmoney.com/credit-cards-loans/blog-are-boxing-day-sales-reallyworth-it/
by Ann Haldon
FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT
MASALA
INDIAN RESTAURANT & TAKEAWAY Quality Balti Restaurant & Take Away
FEEL FREE TO BRING YOUR OWN ALCOHOLIC DRINKS
TUESDAYS • 4 COURSE MEAL • £8.95pp *Not to be used with any other offer.
Book NOW for
15% OFF Collection Orders *
CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH
5 Course Meal
Choice of 3 Set Menus
20% OFF
*
*Dining in - off main course. Only for bookings. Please present advert. Not to be used with any other offers. Maximum 6 people. Valid until 31-01-18 (excludes 20th Dec17 to 1st Jan18)
T: 01952 820085 Adams House, 7 High Street, Newport TF10 7AR
£21.95
(children under 10 £14.95)
ONLINE ORDERS NOW AVAILABLE AT:
www.thetasteofparadise.co.uk
TAKEAWAY - FREE Home Delivery within a 6 mile radius (minimum order of £10)
15% Discount on Collections or 10% Discount on Delivery Open: Sun - Thu: 5pm - 11.30pm Fri & Sat: 5pm - Midnight
rear of 2-4 High Street, Newport TF10 7A
01952 825505
We are not licensed bring your own alcohol
£5 OFF Meal for Two
(2 main meals must be purchased, not valid with any other offers) Valid until 31-01-18 Excludes 18th to 31st Dec17
£10 OFF £15 OFF Meal for Four
(4 main meals must be purchased, not valid with any other offers) Valid until 31-01-18 Excludes 18th to 31st Dec17
Meal for Six
(6 main meals must be purchased, not valid with any other offers) Valid until 31-01-18 Excludes 18th to 31st Dec17
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Moooooving...? WA N T E D PROPERTIES TO SELL
1% ISSION
COMM
Choose Barker Healey Property to sell your home and make sure your property stands out from the crowd! Orchard Cove is a brand new luxury development in Tibberton, Shropshire, an exclusive country village located just outside of Newport. The tranquil setting is a private cul-de-sac of just 10 homes, designed to offer the best of village living, whilst still being close enough to all local amenities and commuter links. The Kingsley is one of three house types available and provides modern family living with spacious accommodation and 4 goodsized Bedrooms. With a light & airy Kitchen/Diner, Lounge and Study, it also benefits from a Utility Room and underfloor heating downstairs. Bi-fold doorsopen up from the main reception rooms into the garden, whilst upstairs you will find a Master Bedroom with En-suite and built-in wardrobe. Finally there are three further Bedrooms and Family Bathroom. Externally, this particular design boasts a detached Double Garage, (with the option to upgrade and convert additional space in the Garage loft) and driveway parking. Rear gardens provide pleasant outdoor space within which to enjoy the surroundings.
The Kingsley, Tibberton
REDUCED TO ÂŁ375,000
The Livingstone is one of three house types available and provides well thought out living accommodation and 4 goodsized Bedrooms. With a contemporary Kitchen, (complete with underfloor heating) separate Dining Room and Living Room (boasting doors out onto the garden), it also benefits from a Downstairs W.C. and welcoming Entrance Hallway. Upstairs you will find a Master Bedroom with En-suite and double built-in wardrobes.
The Livingstone, Tibberton
REDUCED TO ÂŁ325,000
10 High Street, Newport TF10 7AN
01952 813625
www.barkerhealey.co.uk 26
Finally there are three further Bedrooms and Family Bathroom. Externally, this particular design boasts an Integral Garage and driveway parking. Rear gardens provide pleasant outdoor space within which to enjoy the surroundings.
PROPERTY
Max Coleman Managing Director
Kate Coleman Company Secretary
Gill Coleman Founder
Jeff Coleman Founder
Coleman Estates, 25 Church Street, Wellington, TF1 1DG
Call: 01952 244 990 www.colemanestates.com
It’s always nice to be appreciated... As I sit writing our latest ‘In and Around’ article, I find myself surrounded by chaos: Unopened boxes, carpet offcuts, new furniture and the smell of fresh paint. After nearly a years’ househunting, myself and my wife Kate are finally moving into a new house tomorrow. So what’s this got to do with anything? Well, after nearly a year of viewing houses, being gazumped, entered into bidding wars and being subjected to the extreme stress that is moving home, buying a house has been an excellent reminder of what our customers go through every day! It has also really demonstrated the difference between an excellent estate agent and an estate agent that simply goes to work to get paid. At Coleman Estates, we pride ourselves on the highest levels of customer service, presentation and results - an achievement that has been recently recognised by a prestigious new award and entry into the ‘EA Masters Best Estate Agents 2017’. In the Property Academy’s own words:
Rated’. Considering our other two competitors have been open for roughly 150 years longer than us, we definitely feel we are in good company! In the last two months we have experienced considerable success within our sales department with record sales being achieved in terms of both price achieved and time on the market, especially in the £250-400,000 bracket in areas such as Priorslee, Admaston, Shawbirch and Wellington - in fact at the time of writing, more than 70% of our current portfolio is under offer! If you’d like to experience the kind of excellent customer service that we think every stressed homemover deserves, call us on 01952 244 990 and speak to myself or one of our excellent sales team we’ll guide you through every step of the way to your new home.
Max Coleman - BA (Hons) MNAEA Managing Director
‘The Property Academy has embarked on the biggest ever study of the British estate agency industry in its quest to shine a light on the best performing agents and improve customer service standards.’ We are thrilled to be just one of 3 estate agents in the Telford area to be featured in the guide, having been deemed ‘Highly
EA Masters Best Estate Agents 2017 27
SALES
RENTAL
• Experience of over 30 years • Professional Photography • Energy performance certificates and floor plans prepared • Expert sales software • Good feedback after viewings • Plenty of client contact • Advice on Solicitors • Financial advisors available
Properties
WANTED For RENT or For SALE
“Service with a smile and a cup of tea”
• ARLA Agreements • Attended Move ins with pictures taken • Rent guarantee • Repairs programme in 40 different languages • Regular reports from our Happy Inspector • Monthly statements • No hidden charges or add ons • Client money protection • Accredited by Telford and Wrekin Council • Experience in Court Procedures • Pet Friendly Agent
Come and relax in our friendly office or call us and chat about your requirements
Tel: 01952 246622 or 01952 246633 • Fax: 01952 616677 Email: julia@juliaweston.co.uk • www.juliaweston.co.uk Julia Weston Estate Agents, The Stables, 43 Market Street, Wellington, Telford TF1 1DT
JAYS REMOVALS & STORAGE LTD
SUDOKU’S
We are a family run business and deliver a professsional removal to the highest standard. We ensure our customers are 100% happy with the work we do and offer excellent value for money.
YOUR HOME, SAFE IN OUR HANDS
Easy
Members of The Guild of Master Craftsmen and Move Assured • Nationwide Service • Home Packing Service • Fully Trained, Uniformed Staff • Storage
• Piano Moves • Packing Materials • Commercial Moves • 7 Days a Week Service
Call us today for your free quotation 01952 289118 Unit 9 Horton Court, Hortonwood 50, Telford TF1 7GY
www.JaysRemovalsAndStorage.com
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Hard
PROPERTY
FOR THE FORTUNATE FEW THE LAST REMAINING HOMES AT HERITAGE VIEW ARE NOW ON SALE!
At Heritage View you’ll find a range of 4 bedroom homes all built to Lioncourt Homes’ award winning standards. But hurry, only a few now remaining!
4 bedroom detached with single garage and parking from £250,000 4 bedroom detached with double garage and parking from £280,000 Help to Buy Available - Pay just 5% deposit! House to sell? Ask about Assisted Move or Part Exchange* In a survey of customer satisfaction by the House Builder’s Federation, 98.5% of our customers said they would recommend Lioncourt Homes!
Heritage View, Sommerfeld Road, Hadley, Telford, Help to Buy TF1 5RY Tel: 0845 873 2893†
Showhomes & Marketing Suite open 10am to 5.30pm daily
www.lioncourthomes.com *Part exchange available on selected plots only and subject to terms & conditions. Please ask our sales negotiator for full details. Help to Buy cannot be used in conjuction with Part Exchange. The pictures shown are indicative images of Lioncourt homes. As we do our best to build a wide variety of homes on every development, the external materials, design features, and landscaping may differ to those shown in the image. Help to Buy is a government-led scheme and availability is subject to qualification. †Calls will be charged at seven pence per minute from a BT landline and may cost considerably more from mobile and other phones. Prices and offers correct at time of print.
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Which is the best estate agent in Telford?
James Carlon Co Author of ‘THE TELFORD PROPERTY BLOG’
It’s always difficult to choose between professionals who do a similar job - what’s the difference between two solicitors firms based in Telford, for instance? So it is with estate agents. Deciding which agent to help sell or rent your home is really tricky - for a number of reasons. James Carlon, area residential sales manager at Nock Deighton in Telford, says people are understandably nervous because moving house is a very big decision. “For a start, you are dealing with in all likelihood the biggest financial investment you will ever make, so a lot is at stake,” he said. “Also, estate agents are traditionally not very good at distinguishing themselves from one another, and you may not even know what qualities you want in your estate agent - what makes one agent any better than the others? “Well, there is a new online search tool to help with all that, called the Best Estate Agency Guide, which rates every estate agent in the country and lists the top 20% in the guide. “Compiled by independent industry experts, the Property Academy, and supported by Rightmove, the guide rates branches rather than estate agencies as a whole, to reflect the hyper-local level of service here in Telford. “Branches are tested against a set of customer service and performance criteria, including mystery shopping and data analysis. “I would recommend that people have a look before deciding which estate agent to choose.” 30
Brought to you by James Carlon You can check out the guide and search for Telford estate agents by going to the Best Agency Guide website here: www.bestestateagentguide.co.uk James added: “There are other ways you can choose an estate agent too, of course. The first thing you can do, which you have probably done already without even realising it, is talk to your family and friends about their experiences. “Were their agents friendly and helpful, did they advise them well and help them achieve a good price? “You will probably already have an impression about who the busiest agents are Telford, but take a closer look - how many For Sale boards from each agent can you see on your way to work, for instance? “It doesn’t automatically mean they are capable, but having lots of stock for sale is usually a good indicator that an agent is doing well. “There are plenty of other factors to consider as well - why not give me a call for more advice.” James Carlon Residential Sales Manager Nock Deighton t. 01952 292300 m. 07974 154950 e. j.carlon@nockdeighton.co.uk
PROPERTY
18 Holt Coppice, Bratton 5 bedroom detached house An extremely well presented 5 bedroom detached house in a sought after location. 2 viewings, 1 offer, sale agreed in 10 days
SOLD We have buyers waiting - more properties are urgently required!
Telford 01952 292 300
Newport 01952 570 222
www.nockdeighton.co.uk
Ironbridge 01952 432 533 PROPERTY AGENTS | VALUERS | SURVEYORS | AUCTIONEERS
TELFORD | IRONBRIDGE | NEWPORT | BRIDGNORTH | SHREWSBURY | LUDLOW | CLEOBURY MORTIMER | KIDDERMINSTER
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What is ‘Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard’? Brought to you by Dawn Clarke Dawn Clarke Co Author of ‘THE TELFORD PROPERTY BLOG’
Have you heard of the new Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) which is being introduced in April next year?
your property was given a D or an E rating a while ago, you could find it being downgraded to an F or a G.
That’s only seven months away, and landlords in Telford could have some work to do before then to ensure their properties comply with the legislation.
It’s important that landlords don’t bury their heads in the sand, and there are simple reports you can get which will tell you the energy efficiency of your property.
“In a nutshell, the new standard means that all properties must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E or above.”
If your property is not at the correct level by next April, you could find yourself open to a fine.
After all, it’s better to know if you need to carry out improvements now rather than leaving it until it’s too late and landing yourself with a fine on top of the cost of the work! Give me a call for more advice about how to go about getting your properties checked out.
So if your property is currently rated at D or lower, I would advise you to take action - and here’s why.
Dawn Clarke Director Nock Deighton
EPCs are valid for 10 years but assessments are more accurate now than they were some years ago, so if
t. 01952 290163 m. 07976 209011 e. d.clarke@nockdeighton.co.uk
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PROPERTY
Kenilworth, Limekiln Bank, St Georges 5 bedroom detached house A well presented family home pleasantly situated within a well established residential area. 13 viewings, 4 offers, sale agreed in 19 days
SOLD We have buyers waiting - more properties are urgently required!
Telford 01952 292 300
Newport 01952 570 222
www.nockdeighton.co.uk
Ironbridge 01952 432 533 PROPERTY AGENTS | VALUERS | SURVEYORS | AUCTIONEERS
TELFORD | IRONBRIDGE | NEWPORT | BRIDGNORTH | SHREWSBURY | LUDLOW | CLEOBURY MORTIMER | KIDDERMINSTER
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Helping Your Child
TO BECOME MONEY SAVVY
It’s never too early to get into the habit of saving up for what you want. Good habits learnt in childhood can last a lifetime.
returns. Do compare rates, as some savings accounts actually offer a better rate than a cash ISA, and are easier to access.
If it feels as though your children are constantly asking for new toys, sweets and gadgets, you might want to consider giving them weekly pocket money, with the proviso that once it’s gone, it’s gone. If they want to save up for something big, like a scooter, help them to focus by sticking a photo of it by their money box. You can also remind them about their goal when they’re tempted to spend their money on ‘tat’. Do they really want that Shopkins blind bag now, or would they rather buy a scooter in a few months’ time?
www.moneysavingexpert.com helps you to easily compare the rates of children’s savings accounts and junior ISAs. While the AER (annual equivalent rate) is important, you’ll also want to consider other aspects when choosing a provider, such as:
You can buy money boxes that have separate sections, such as short-term savings, long-term savings and quick spends. Or just make your own, with different labelled jam jars.
Children’s savings accounts It can be difficult to resist dipping into a money box, so you might want to think about opening a savings account for your child, particularly if they want to save up for something big, or you want to start putting some money away to help with university fees or a house deposit.
Easy access accounts Easy access accounts are handy for short-term savings. There’s no penalty to take the money out and the account can be in your child’s name if they’re aged seven or older.
Fixed-rate accounts Fixed-rate accounts often earn a higher rate of interest than easy-access accounts, but your child will be tied in to a set period before they can withdraw any money without a penalty.
Regular savings accounts If you or your child can commit to saving at least £5 each month, a regular savings account often pays a higher rate of interest than the accounts previously mentioned. However, the rate usually drops considerably if you make any withdrawals within a set period, and it often drops anyway after the initial bonus period ends.
Junior ISAs If your child is saving for a long-term goal, such as university, a junior ISA is a good way of locking the money away from temptation. As with adult ISAs, you can choose between a cash ISA and a stocks and shares one. There is a greater risk with a stocks and shares ISA, but there’s also the possibility of higher
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Which financial provider to go for?
• How easy is it to deposit money? • How often can you withdraw money without paying a penalty? • Does the provider align with your values? For example, do they have an ethical policy that says they won’t invest your child’s money in companies that use child labour or test on animals? • How easy is it to manage the account? Depending on your child’s age, they might also benefit from an account that comes with an app for their smartphone and a cash card.
Family budgeting The Money Advice Service is a useful resource if you need to improve your own finances. It offers free advice on everything from budgeting to pensions. Visit www.moneyadviceservice. org.uk or call 0800 138 7777.
by Kate Duggan kateduggan.co.uk
CHILDREN, EDUCATION & ACTIVITIES
The old hall school
WREKIN COLLEGE
independent prep school for boys and girls aged 4 –11
co-educational 11-18 day and boarding school
Please join us for our
Discover more...
PRE-SCHOOL, RECEPTION AND KS1
DISCOVERY MORNING Saturday 27th January 2018 10am –12.30pm
Open Morning March 24th 2018 10.30am - 1pm
Bring your family and friends – no appointment necessary.
“Both boys and girls make consistently good progress in lessons... because they receive supportive and well-informed teaching.”
Especially for families with younger children.
We look forward to giving you a warm welcome.
ISI Educational Quality Inspection February 2017
The Old Hall School, Wellington, Shropshire TF1 3LB
Wrekin College, Wellington, Shropshire TF1 3BH
admissions@oldhall.co.uk 01952 223117 www.oldhall.co.uk
admissions@wrekincollege.com 01952 265603 www.wrekincollege.com
Registered Charity No. 528417
Bears Den
Pre-School
New Extended Opening Times Monday-Friday 8:30am - 3:30pm (term time only) •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• ••
"Curious Cubs leave as Bright Bears" 2 Year Old Funding Available Forces and Non Forces children welcome
Ofsted Inspected Safe and Secure Site BCA Award Runner Up 2017 3 Spacious Rooms Plus Outside Play Area 30 Hour Funded New 30 Hour Funding - Enquiries Welcome Places Available, 15 Extended Funded Flexible Days Hours for 3+ Spaces Available Children Forces and Non-Forces Children Welcome (2, 3 & 4 year olds) Regular Yoga Lessons From a Fully Trained Professional
Fully Qualified Friendly Staff
Over 30 years experience, joyfully assisting years of generations through to their next stage in life where we nudge our children through introducing their first tastes of academic learning
For more information or to book a visit please call 01952 672 506
• Email: bears.den8@gmail.com
Bears Den Pre-School • North Gate • Venning Barracks • Donnington TF2 8JT (Find us near the Clocktower & Wyevale Garden Centre) 35
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CHILDREN, EDUCATION & ACTIVITIES
PETS:
All the trimmings and paraphernalia of Christmas are wonderful for us, but they can represent a danger to your pet. So with this in mind, what in particular do you need to watch out for at this time of year?
TAKE EXTRA CARE OF YOUR PETS THIS CHRISTMAS Christmas decorations If your pet has a tendency to chew, be wary of your Christmas tree lights as they may cause electrocution. Glass baubles also break very easily and it’s difficult to spot the smaller shards of glass, which can easily lodge in a pet’s paws or mouth – a particular problem if your cat is prone to climbing the tree.
Chocolate Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which is poisonous to dogs and cats. Dark chocolate has the highest amount, although milk chocolate also causes potentially lifethreatening symptoms if consumed. It’s a serious issue at any time of the year, but at Christmas the fact that you’re likely to have more chocolate in the house increases the risk.
Rich foods Turkey meat is too rich for many dogs – they struggle to digest this fatty food which can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. High fat foods in general tend to irritate your pet’s stomach and intestines, so it’s a good idea to stick to their usual diet as much as possible during the festive season. Whether your pet is timid or bold, providing a safe place where they can retreat from the noise and chaos of Christmas helps them to cope until their normal routine resumes. www.thehealthypetclub.co.uk/top-tips-pets-christmas/ www.timeforpaws.co.uk/blog/top-10-hazards-for-pets-atchristmas-time/
By Ann Haldon
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Quality Gifts Building sets are popular with children and adults alike. They’re also a great way to spend some quality one-on-one time together. Keep an eye out for the K’Nex STEM Explorations range, which incorporates elements of science, technology, engineering and maths. The vehicles set (£24.99) includes pieces for seven different vehicles, two working motors and instructions for five experiments. LEGO is 85 years old this year. There are now literally hundreds of kits to choose from. The Lego Elves range centres on a girl called Emily Jones who finds her way to Elvendale. The range has been added to this year, with a new story focusing on Emily’s sister, Sophie, who is kidnapped by a goblin. Sets start at a few pounds and come with linked activities and videos online. The Capture of Sophie Jones kit (£17.99) proved a real hit with our eight year old tester and her dad. Wooden train sets make for hours of entertainment. Younger children can quickly become bored once the track is set up though. Hape’s new Rainbow Route Railway and Station Set (£59.45 from Amazon) is brightly coloured and has lots of extra features to keep kids amused. There’s a bead maze, tambourine track, shape sorter and mini-xylophone, and it’s suitable for toddlers aged 18 months and up.
Gift experiences When you look back on your childhood, you’ll probably remember days out with your family more than particular toys. Lots of child-friendly venues offer gift vouchers, including pottery barns, cinemas and amusement parks. Search online for local venues, or take a look at www.virginexperiencedays. co.uk and www.redletterdays.co.uk.
THAT WON'T BREAK THE BANK Animal adoption gifts often include regular updates on the animal, along with magazines and a cuddly toy. Adopting a tiger through Born Free (www.bornfree.org.uk) costs just £2.50 a month. How about a personalised book of vouchers? Search for templates online, or design your own on www.canva.com then fill in the vouchers with activities that are free, or low-cost, such as: • One movie night, complete with popcorn. • Two hours of den building with Mum. • A hot chocolate with whipped cream. • One day of no chores. • A pamper evening with face masks and a manicure. • An extra hour to play before bed. • •.An hour of playing the game of your choice with Mum and Dad. • Baking cakes with grandparents.
Gifts under £5 Most children enjoy reading or being read to. You’ll find plenty of books to choose from on The Book People’s website www.thebookpeople.co.uk, with up to 75% off RRP. When we checked there were 950 picture books for under £5, and thousands more across other age groups. If you enjoy making gifts, you could: • Use scraps of felt to create a roll-up fuzzy felt game. • Fill a Kilner jar with the dry ingredients for chocolate chip cookies. • Make playdough (mix and heat on the hob 2 cups of flour, 2 cups of warm water, 1 cup of salt, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and a few drops of food colouring). Finally, when it comes to games and jigsaws for 2 to 7 year olds, you can’t go wrong with Orchard Toy, see www. orchardtoys.com. There are plenty of options for under £5, including Jungle Snakes and Ladders, Little Bug Bingo and Dinosaur Dominos.
by Kate Duggan kateduggan.co.uk
Rainbow Route Railway & Station Set
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CHILDREN, EDUCATION & ACTIVITIES
Christmas at AIREA5
1!
FESTIVE EVENTS BOUNCE YOUR WAY TO FATHER CHRISTMAS!
Including: 1 Hour Bounce, visit to Father Christmas, meet his singing Elf, complimentary Hot Chocolate Peak: £16.00 Off Peak: £14.00
JINGLE BELL BOUNCE & EAT!
ONLY £15 4pm - 6pm, 1st - 15th Dec - 2 hour bounce, food & present
CHRISTMAS GIFT VOUCHER S AVAILABLE CHRISTMAS ARTS & CRAFTS 18th - 22nd Dec 10am All for just £4.50 ALSO NEW YEAR ARTS & CRAFTS 27th, 28th, 29th Dec
NEW YEARS EVE PARTY @ AIREA51!
Fri 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd Dec, 7pm 9pm - All Ages Welcome £16.95
Bounce your way into 2018! 31st Dec, 2hr special, 6pm - 8pm All ages welcome - £20
CHRISTMAS EVE EVE PARTY!
NEW YEARS DAY SPECIAL!!!!!
CHRISTMAS DISCO BOUNCE!
With a Bouncing Santa!!! Only £16 7pm - 9pm Sat 23rd Dec. All Ages Welcome
FOR 1 DAY ONLY!!!!!!!! Buy 1hr and get the 2nd FREE 11am - 6pm ONLY £10
T: 01952 947220 A: Unit C Stafford Park, Telford TF3 3BJ E: enquiries@airea51.co.uk Please visit our website for further details!
W: airea51.co.uk
Please book in advance to ensure entrance!
Victorian
Christmas Weekends 9 & 10 and 16 & 17 December 10am - 4pm Tickets can be purchased in advance IRONBRIDGE.ORG.UK
BLISTS HILL VICTORIAN TOWN
New for 2017 Pre-book FESTIVE LUNCHES and BOXING DAY BRUNCH Annual Passport Tickets not valid. Annual Passport Ticket holders get 25% discount off entry (T&Cs apply) 39
Winter Sale The Telford Hotel and Golf Resort has launched its winter sale, offering major discounts for couples, families and friends booking a short break or longer staycation in 2018. The hotel, which is part of the QHotels group, now managed by Redefine|BDL Hotels (RBH), is offering 40% off breaks of two or more nights, up until the end of 2018. The winter offer is applicable across all 26 QHotels, including
40% OFF SHORT BREAKS city and shopping breaks in Manchester, Leeds and Oxford as well as rural countryside retreats in the likes of Kent, Cheshire and Northumberland. The sale means that a two night stay at one of QHotels’ fourstar properties starts from as little as £110. The offer includes access to hotels' on-site restaurants and health club facilities, including gyms and indoor swimming pools. The sale also extends to spa and golf with QHotels offering 20% off spa and golf facilities across the group. Steven Essex, General Manager, said: "The winter season is a popular time for our guests to plan and book quality time away with family, friends or partners. “With this in mind, we’re helping guests with a substantial 40% off at a time when most of us are counting the pennies in the run up to Christmas. A two-night stay at The Telford Hotel and Golf Resort for example, starts at just £122 per stay.” QHotels' winter offer applies to two-night breaks, including breakfast, until 23 December 2018. Guests can also upgrade their break to include dinner.
Book direct with QHotels by 31 January 2018 to receive 40% at:
Li av pl mi ai ac te l a es d bl e
QHotels.co.uk/wintersale
Your membership includes a full induction programme to suit your needs, whether you want to tone up, lose weight or simply lead a healthier lifestyle, we’re here to help you achieve your goals.
Enquire today!
• Swimming pool • Spa • Gym • Group exercise studio with classes • Sauna • Steam room • Spinning
Join now and receive the rest of the year free
01952 422 977 | telfordleisure@QHotels.co.uk Great Hay Drive, Sutton Heights, Shropshire TF7 4DT QHotels.co.uk
20
14 - 2015
2014 - 2015
Terms and conditions apply and offer subject to availability. Valid on a 12 month contract. For full terms and conditions speak to our health club team.
40
HEALTH & FITNESS
Anna Simons MCSP PHYSIOTHERAPY Friendly Professional Advice with Time to Listen Purpose Built Clinic Room Hands on Treatments
• Back Pain • Neck Pain • Whiplash • Arthritis • Sports Injuries • Tennis/Golfer Elbow
• Shoulder Pain • Foot/Ankle Problems • Plantar Fasciitis • Achilles Tendonopothy • Sciatica
NEW
Shock Wave Therapy Available
Treatments Offered: • Manual Therapy • Massage • Accupuncture • Electro-therapy • Pain Relief including Shock Wave • Kinesio Taping
Anna Simons MCSP Chartered Physiotherapist T: 01952 811 525 M:07887 930 642 Deer Park, Newport, Shropshire • E: info@annasimonsphysio.com • W: www.annasimonsphysio.com
New Football Team
GETS LOCAL SPONSORSHIP
Weston Motors is proud to have sponsored and helped a budding new football team 'Shifnal Harriers U13'. The team has been formed for the new 2017/18 season and is being managed by John Hall as part of 'Shifnal Junior Football Club'. The team is set to have an exciting first season and are thrilled to have managed to secure a sponsor such as Weston Motors who have provided the team with a brand new kit!
SHROPSHIRE'S
BIGGEST OUTDOOR FREE
TASTERS AVAILABLE
Andrew Smith the Managing Director of Weston Motors was delighted to be asked to help a local team out and wishes the team the best of luck for a successful season.
The Body Barn, Moorfield Lane, Newport TF10 9EH
Call: 01952 455 541 E: info@thebodybarn.co.uk www.thebodybarn.co.uk 41
Fighting Colds and Flu
MYTHS AND MAGIC CURES
Colds can make our life a misery and flu can make us quite ill, particularly if we’re vulnerable due to our age or an existing condition. So it’s no surprise that a host of myths and supposed cures have sprung up around these ailments. But are any of them backed up by scientific evidence? If you have a high temperature, then it’s the flu – not a cold. MYTH. Colds can sometimes cause a high temperature, although it tends to be short-lived and mild (not above 38oC). However, if you’re suffering from sweats and chills, it’s probably flu. It’s pointless to avoid someone with a cold or flu. You’re bound to get it anyway. MYTH. Flu and colds are highly contagious, spread by both airborne and direct contact methods, but they’re avoidable. Avoid sufferers if you can, but if you can’t, you can still stay germ-free if you both practise good hygiene. This means: • Clean high-contact surfaces regularly (e.g. phones, door handles, touch screens). • Clean hands regularly and thoroughly, especially after touching the nose or mouth • Don’t share cutlery, cups or towels. • Ensure the contagious person has tissues close by to catch coughs and sneezes, and bin them immediately. They should use the ’vampire’ cough (into the inside of their elbow) if they’re caught tissue-less. The flu vaccine doesn’t always prevent flu, so it’s not worth having. TRUTH - and MYTH. It’s true that you may still get the flu. Flu vaccines are produced in advance, so experts must try to predict the three or four flu strains that will be prevalent next winter. This means you may catch an unexpected or rarer flu strain you’re not protected from. However, the vaccine is still worth having, as it will protect you from most strains you’ll encounter. It’s particularly recommended if you’re vulnerable or have low immunity, e.g. if you’re a carer, over 65, pregnant or have an existing medical condition. Getting very wet and/or cold can give you a cold or the flu. MYTH. Since both colds and the flu are caused by viruses, it’s pretty obvious that cold or wet conditions can’t give you either. But what cold and wet can do is put your body under stress, making it more vulnerable to germs it encounters. The flu vaccine gives you flu MYTH. Inactive viruses are used in the vaccine. But you may have a temperature and ache for a short time afterwards. If you’ve had a cold or flu for a while, you should ask the doctor for antibiotics MYTH. Your doctor may give in and prescribe them, although they know antibiotics won’t work; antibiotics don’t kill viruses. Patients sometimes take antibiotics for a week and declare smugly that they’re cured, when in reality, that extra week was all their body needed to finally fight off their virus. Antibiotics are only of use if you get a secondary bacterial infection.
42
Magic Cures Prevention is the best cure. Cold and flu viruses are highly contagious and most of us touch hundreds of communal surfaces every day, so practice good hygiene and keep your hands squeaky clean – research shows this can work. Research also shows that stress and poor sleep can make us more prone to colds, so take positive action to reduce your stress and ensure you’re getting enough good-quality sleep. Boosting your immune system may help you resist colds and flu or fight them off more quickly. There is evidence that taking zinc regularly can reduce the number of colds children get each year, and although there is less reliable research on adults, it’s reasonable to assume it can work for them too. Regular intake of probiotics and garlic may also have some preventative effect, but the research so far isn’t reliable enough to confirm it. Vitamin C and echinacea have now been researched extensively and the consensus is that they don’t provide cold or flu prevention – and any lessening or shortening of symptoms is mild to non-existent. However, Vitamin C may be of negligible benefit to people already under physical stress (e.g. marathon runners). Decongestants and antihistamines: apologies to your wallet, but when used separately, research indicates these medications have very little or no effect. However, when used together, particularly with painkillers too, there seems to be a slight improvement in symptoms. Ipratropium bromide (Rinatec) nasal spray does seem to help alleviate symptoms, particularly a runny nose. Over-the counter cough suppressants: the jury is out, as much of the research is poor quality. But it seems that any benefits are negligible. Vapour rubs do seem to help a little in alleviating night time cough and improving sleep, but a review of clinic studies showed that over a quarter of users reported burning or itching at the application area. NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, e.g. ibuprofen) can reduce fever and help with aches and pains. If you have a cold or flu, stay hydrated, alleviate the symptoms and take heart; researchers are working to modify naturallyoccurring peptides with properties that can combat cold viruses. A cold cure may be on the (distant) horizon.
by Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk
HEALTH & FITNESS
Developing a Healthy Mind Concerns about poor mental health and the limited amount of NHS resources available to help are regularly in the news. We all recognise the value exercise and diet plays in maintaining our physical health so shouldn’t we place the same value on our minds? Affinity and Beyond offer unique sessions called Mind Maintenance that focus on maintaining positive mental health and developing mental resilience to help clients manage the challenges and stresses of everyday life. Lorraine Romney, a fully qualified Clinical Hypnotherapist based in Telford, uses a combination of therapies to help promote a healthy mind and wellbeing. Do you have habits, fears, doubts or anxieties that prevent you from being who you want to be? “My aim is to help clients develop psychological skills that enable them to change the relationship they hold with their thoughts, which in turn affect their emotions and behaviour. Ultimately I want clients to feel empowered to effectively manage every day struggles and overcome barriers that stop them living a full and meaningful life.” For further information and an informal chat call 07898 823339.
Therapy for you... Stress, Anxiety, Fear, Depression? Affinity and Beyond use a combination of therapies to help promote a healthy mind and wellbeing, including:
We can help you: • Reduce stress and anxiety • Manage unhelpful thoughts, beliefs and memories • Be calmer and sleep well • Overcome fears, phobias or trauma • Develop confidence and selfesteem
• Hypnotherapy • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
• Achieve a goal e.g. weight loss • Gain focus and direction
• Mindfulness • Psycho Sensory Therapy
lorraine@affinity-and-beyond.co.uk
T: 07898 823 339 Affinity And Beyond
Lorraine Romney MNCH (Reg.),CNHC Clinical Hypnotherapist
Therapies To Improve Your Emotional Well-Being Affinity
Beyond
www.affinity-and-beyond.co.uk
One of our many exclusive ranges that are not available on the High Street 43
Stressful
A local healthcare consumer champion and charity are asking older people from Shropshire to share the difficulty they have in getting to and from hospital appointments. The ‘Painful Journeys’ campaign, which has been launched by Age UK, seeks to highlight the long, uncomfortable and often painful journeys that many older people have to endure when they are unwell, in order to have treatment or consultations. It calls for an urgent government review of essential transport services. Almost a fifth (18%) of over-65s who have attended a hospital appointment in the past year – more than one million people – reported feeling worse afterwards because of the stress involved in the journey, according to new research from the charity. This comes at a time when Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital Trust have just increased their car parking charges, community transport schemes are facing an uncertain future with national discussions about changes to licensing and hospital non-emergency transport services are under pressure from increasing demand and budget constraints.
HOSPITAL JOURNEYS In order to gather evidence of this locally, Healthwatch Shropshire, the independent health and social care consumer champion, is asking older people in the county to share their experiences of getting to and from hospitals so these can be fed into the debate. Jane Randall-Smith, Chief Officer, Healthwatch Shropshire said: “Getting to hospital for an appointment or to visit a relative can be a long journey using public transport. Some services, such as neurology, are now being provided out of the county which can add to the difficulties of reaching hospitals for non-emergency treatment. We really want to hear from older people who are experiencing difficulties in getting to and from hospital.” Heather Osborne, Chief Executive, Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin, said: “As we grow older, so too do our chances of having multiple health conditions requiring regular outpatient appointments. If older people cannot actually get to the hospital services they need, or have to endure long, painful and stressful journeys in order to access them, this translates into extra costs for the NHS, which we know is already stretched to the limit.” To share your experience of a painful or difficult journey to hospital please call Healthwatch Shropshire on 01743 237884 or go to www. healthwatchshropshire.co.uk
Age UK warns that difficult hospital journeys are making older people feel more unwell and adding to NHS costs due to missed appointments and possible relapses, making the need for treatment at a point of crisis more likely.
Telford Foot Care Celia Crow BSc Hons DipCFHP Mobile Foot Health Practitioner Foot Health Assessment Corn & Callus Removal Verruca Treatments Ingrowing Nails
For more information about local transport options for older people in Shropshire please contact Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin on 01743 233123.
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Experts in Treating Foot and Heel Pain!
You have most likely sought assistance for your condition, but have struggled to find an enthusiastic expert to help! Passionate and eager to reduce and cure your lower limb, foot and ankle pain. I have the latest equipment to assist your problem, what is more, I specialize in all Foot, Ankle, Leg and Achilles problems.
The latest Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) for non surgical treatment of Heel pain, Achilles Tendons and many other soft tissue injuries- 5 years experience!
achilles pain Policemans Heel
01952 677 063
Plantar faciiis
Unit 8 Horton Court, Hortonwood 50 TF1 7GY
www.TheFootDoctor.co.uk FASCIITIS
HEEL PAIN
Arch Pain Bunion/Arthriis
ORTHOTICS
PODIATRY 45
Soft Tissue Injuries So the seasonal bad weather is upon us and so in this month’s article I thought I would talk about immediate post injury/first aid care for soft tissue injuries and with the frosty and snowy weather on its way it can often be a hazardous time. We do see an increase in injuries such as soft tissue injuries for example ligament injuries from patients slipping and falling in the cold and icy conditions. Obviously the best form of treatment is prevention so just simple things like making sure you have the appropriate shoes on and make sure paths in and around your property are gritted. If a fall or injury does occur, here are some tips to help ease the pain. Most of you will have heard of RICE this is an acronym for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation and is essential for management of soft tissue injuries.
REST: Rest is essential to help take the strain off tissues which
are trying to heal. Rest will prevent further swelling, pain and further injury. It should be used for a period of time which enables the limb or body part to begin to function better.
ICE: Ice can be a valuable treatment in easing pain and reducing
inflammation and swelling. Controlling the swelling can reduce the risk of increased scar tissue build up and further joint irritation. It is recommended that we ice for around 15 minutes at a time for up to 48-72 hours post injury. It is important to make sure you have good sensation as if you haven't you are at risk of ice burns. A good tip is to place a thin damp tea towel between the skin and
IN THE WINTER
ice and this will act as a barrier to the skin preventing ice burns.
COMPRESSION:
This again is useful in controlling swelling and managing pain. There are various supports and braces available but a simple tubigrip stocking from your local chemist will suffice. Usually used for extended periods but never through the night.
ELEVATION:
This is where the body part is placed in an elevated position to aid venous blood flow back to the systemic blood flow to aid in the reduction of swelling and in turn reducing pain. Remember if you do injure yourself and the pain and dysfunction is severe, it is advisable to seek medical attention. All our physiotherapists are state registered and qualified to assess and treat soft tissue injuries. If you are concerned about your mobility or the mobility issues of a friend or loved one, we do have a physiotherapist who specialises in mobility problems. She can provide specific exercises, balance re-education and falls prevention advice, which can help rehabilitate and maximise potential. This type of therapy can be carried out at the clinic or in comfort of your own home through our home visiting service.
If you do require advice or would like to book an appointment please call our reception on 01952 462330.
EARLY MORNING AND EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE WE ALSO OFFER ACUPUNCTURE, HOME VISITS NEURO AND MOBILITY ASSESSMENTS
JUST SOME CONDITIONS WE CAN TREAT
MALE & FEMALE BACK & NECK PAIN / SCIATICA / SPORTS INJURIES / HEADACHES PHYSIOTHERAPISTS FROZEN SHOULDER / TENNIS ELBOW / ARTHRITIS / TENDONITIS AVAILABLE ALL OF 10 YEARS PLUS EXPERIENCE
JOINT & MUSCULAR PAIN / WORK RELATED PAIN PRE AND POST PREGNANCY PAIN / STROKE / PARKINSONS / MS
FOR FREE ADVICE PLEASE CALL 01952462330 or email enquiries@shropshirephysio.co.uk or visit our website www.shropshirephysio.co.uk
SB Sports Injury & Physiotherapy, Broadway, Shifnal TF11 8AZ 46
HEALTH & FITNESS
ADAPTIVE LENSES®
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Transitions, the swirl, and Transitions Adaptive Lenses are registered trademarks of Transitions Optical, Inc., used under license by Transitions Optical Ltd. Live the Good Light is a trademark of Transitions Optical Ltd. © 2017 Transitions Optical Ltd. Photochromic performance is influenced by temperature, UV exposure, and lens material.
CALL US ON 01952 810808 TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
Evenett & Bishop Opticians 35 High Street, Newport, Shropshire TF10 7AT Email: evenettandbishop@hotmail.com
Putting Care into Practice
Tern Vets
We offer a FREE health check for your new pet!
Pet Care • Farm Care • Equine Care
NEWPORT BRANCH
Audley Avenue Industrial Estate, Newport, Shropshire TF10 7BX
01952 820222
newport@ternvets.co.uk OPEN: Mon-Fri 8:30am-6pm / Sat: 8:30am-12pm
www.ternvets.co.uk
DD Neutering DD Dentistry DD X-rays
DD Laparoscopic Tern Vets understand that Surgery your pet is not just a pet, they DD Hospitalisation are a member DD Nurse Clinics of your family.
DD Pet Passports DD Microchipping DD Ultrasound DD Out of Hours with
Our Own Vets DD Home Visits DD Blood Tests DD Free Puppy Parties
WE PROVIDE 24 HOUR EMERGENCY CARE 7 DAYS A WEEK 47
Get Real
THIS CHRISTMAS
Christmas is well and truly just around the corner and whilst your thoughts may be on gifts, meals, crackers and cards, don’t forget the tree. And I mean a REAL Christmas tree not a tinsel one; a real tree complete with needles and, if you go down the really traditional route, that wonderful aroma that only a proper freshly-potted or freshly-cut Christmas tree can bring. I’ve heard people say that a ‘real’ tree is bad for the planet; after all we’re meant to be planting trees, not felling them! But don’t forget, British-grown trees are most definitely not an ecological disaster zone - think of them as a crop plant rather like a field of cabbages, except that on the whole a field of Christmas trees will be given less fertiliser and fewer chemicals than many classic crop plants. So go on, make sure you get one this Christmas! There are a few things you ought to think about before you buy your tree - it can be really daunting when faced with rows of different types at very varying prices, so what would suit you best? The Norway spruce (Picea abies) is the traditional tree, definitely my favourite but perhaps not ideal if you are more houseproud. It has gorgeous, short dark green pointed needles and that unmistakable Christmassy aroma, but sadly it is the most likely to drop its needles. Having said that, if you treat it well it won’t perform badly and you can enjoy the lowest-priced of the real trees complete with the traditional look. The Serbian Spruce (Picea omorica) is quite similar to the Norway spruce and has long been the favourite festive tree in central Europe, with a distinct blueish tint to the underside of the needles. As it is fairly slender it is a good choice for smaller sitting rooms, and is good-looking with decent needle retention…but of course no Christmas-tree smell! The Nordmann fir (Abies nordmanniana) has become increasingly popular in recent years and is now the biggestselling Christmas tree in the UK. As its shiny green broad needles are quite soft (making it a good choice if there are small children around) and are almost impossible to shift, it is certainly a good choice for those who hate any mess! The Fraser fir (Abies fraseri) is less widely available, but the combination of its good looks and needle-holding ability makes it well worth considering. It has a narrower base than the Norway spruce so is also useful in smaller houses. So, with all these tempting choices, hopefully you’ve been persuaded to take the plunge? But how do you make sure you buy the best tree of the type you’ve decided on? And how do you make it keep its needles and its appearance for as long as possible? • It is important not to buy a real tree too early, as the longer they hang around after they’ve been cut the more likely they are to go downhill.
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• I always try to buy a tree produced by a member of the British Christmas Tree Growers Association – the BCTGA logo should be on the tree or clearly displayed nearby. • Take time to choose the tree – check that it has a good, full shape and that it is not too gappy or lopsided (or if it does lean, make sure that this will be hidden when the tree is in your house). Check the needles - they should be glossy (for those varieties where this is a characteristic) and the correct colour for the type of tree you’ve chosen. They also need to be free from pests and diseases - basically anything yellowed or inclined to shed, or with white fluffy bits should be avoided at all costs. Never buy a tree that has already been netted as this makes it a real lucky dip situation since you can’t see what you’re getting! • If you do buy one quite early then the most important thing is to keep it outside - just recut the end of the trunk and put the tree in a bucket of water in a sheltered spot outside. If it was in a net when you bought it, remove this as it is important to get air circulating around the needles. • When you bring the tree inside, try to avoid putting it anywhere too warm or close to a heat source , and make sure that you use a stand with a water reservoir and that you keep the water levels topped up - if kept supplied with water then even the notorious Norway spruce Christmas tree should hold its needles well. When Christmas is over and it is time for the tree to come down, complete the green loop and make sure you recycle it - they’re not the easiest thing to recycle or compost at home, but many councils and garden centres now offer a re-cycling and Christmas tree chipping service. Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com for great gardening gifts: a stylish ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ gift card (a perfect Christmas present, where the recipient receives their chosen garden ready vegetable plants in the spring and every week Pippa emails with topical hints, tips and advice), gardening tools, raised bed kits, GrowerFrames, signed books and more!
by Pippa Greenwood
GARDENS & OUTDOORS
CLOSED DURING JANUARY
Fresh Holly Wreaths & Crosses
Re-opening 1st Februray 2018
made on-site daily
IF YOU LOVE PLANTS - YOU'LL LOVE IT HERE
Premium Quality Christmas Trees Large Selection of Potted Plants Flower Baskets and Gifts available in our Christmas Shop
BLOOMSBURY GIFT VOUCHERS MAKE A GREAT GIFT!
OPEN Mon to Sat 9-5 Sun 10-4 Closing 3pm on 23rd December
WE GROW QUALITY PLANTS FOR YOU!
Come and view our quality products and be amazed at our fantastic prices... Bloomsbury Nursery Ltd, Weston Heath, Bloomsbury TF11 8RT
01952 691203 • www.bloomsburynursery.co.uk
Christmas Advent Angel Bells Bread Cards Carols Chimney Crib Dasher Elves Fairy Fir Frosty Gift Gold Happy Holly Inn Jingle
Lantern Lights List Morning Myrrh Party Sack Santa Sleigh Star Tinsel
Toys Wreath
Find the words associated with Christmas in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase
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• Block Paving • Tarmac • Slab Laying • Brickwalls • Decking and Fencing • Garden Make Overs • Jet Washing & Sealing
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Driveway & Landscaping Telford's No.1 for supplying and laying artificial lawn
for Bookings in December 2017
FREE QUOTES - No payment until 7 days after completion Contact Roy T: 01952 407838 M: 07976 458123 E: centralpaving@hotmail.co.uk • www.centralpavingtelford.co.uk
Word Ladder
LONG FOX LANDSCAPES
Change one letter at a time (but not the position of any letter) to make a new word - and move from the word at the top of the ladder to the word at the bottom, using the exact number of rungs provided.
A Complete Garden Solution
R O C K
“Creating beautiful spaces, we turn your dreams into reality and bring your garden to life.”
§§Brickwork §§Stonework §§Decking §§Sleeper Work
§§Fencing & Trellis §§Hedge Cutting §§Turfing §§plus more...
Fully Insured • Established 2002
Call Ed on 07967 399 319 or Call free on 0800 246 1171
Design | Construct | Maintain NG FOX LANDSCAPES www.longfoxlandscapes.co.uk A Complete Garden Solution 50
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§§Garden Design §§Driveways §§Block Paving §§Patios & Paving §§Walls
H I L L
GARDENS & OUTDOORS
Top Quality Fencing, Turf & Topsoil Supplied 7 Days a Week
Over one million We offer a professional fitting and storm damage repair service
bricks & pavers in stock WELLIN2GNTJON DISCOUNT FOR OAP's
Landscape Gardening Fencing Decking Turf Laying Patios Block Paving Garden Clearance
TF1
Free Estimates & Quotes | T: 01952 677266 | M: 07741 287642 www.phillipsandsonfencing.com
Over one million bricks & pavers in stock
Specialists in and stockists of: LANDSCAPING AND MANY MORE BRANDS ARTIFICIAL GRASS ROOFING (FIRESTONE RUBBER COVER)
Available in branch or call us for details SPECIALIST BRICK CENTRE
01952 641199
TOOL HIRE DECORATING CENTRE
Dulux Paint Mixer Available
• Extensive visual brick library
• Brick Specialists on hand to help • Massive range of bricks, blocks and specials in stock
NEW Range of Paving • Reclaim bricks stocked • Next day delivery*
Telford, Watling street, Wellington, Telford, Shropshire, TF1 2NJ
Watling Street, Wellington, Telford TF1 2NJ
Call: 01952 641199 Tel: 01952 Fax: 01952 244310
641199
find us opposite Telford Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 7.30am-5.00pm Saturday: 8.00am-12.00 noon
United Football Club
Opening Hours
conditions apply - ask in branch for details, offer applies on orders placed before 3pm the previous working day. Mon - Fri 7.30am-5pm • Sat - 8am - 12pm NOW*Terms IN &STOCK
30836 Advert for Telford Bricks.indd 1
14/11/2013 10:59
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The History
OF CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS
Every year, some people mourn the loss of traditional, more faith-based Christmas celebrations. Yet most December 25th traditions are far less Christian and much more recently adopted in the UK than they may think. Celebrating on December 25th Jesus’ birth date isn’t documented and the gospels of Matthew and Luke, written long after his death, give contradictory clues. Some scholars say the sheep on the hillside and the census suggest good weather, indicating spring to early autumn. So why is Christmas celebrated on the 25th of December? Midwinter festivals abounded by the time Christianity took hold. There were winter solstice celebrations such as Yule and Koleda, and the Roman festivals of Saturnalia (which included decorating your home with evergreens – sound familiar?) and Dies Natalis Solis Invicti, ‘birthday of the unconquered sun’, on December 25th. It was easier for early proponents of Christianity to introduce it into these longstanding festivals than to persuade people to give them up. The first Christian Roman Emperor, Constantine, began celebrating Christmas on December 25th in 336. A few years later, Pope Julius I declared it the official date to celebrate Jesus’ birth. Some scholars believe he also chose this date to honour Hanukkah and Jesus’ own religion, Judaism. Orthodox and Coptic Christians celebrate Jesus’s birth on January the 7th - the ‘original’ December 25th. Our December 25th moved when we adopted the Gregorian calendar in 1752.
Yule Logs Today, Yule logs have been mainly superseded by log-shaped chocolate cakes here, but neither are connected to Jesus’ birth. Yule logs were part of the Scandinavian Yule celebration, beginning at the winter solstice and running into January. Yule logs were burned to mark the return of the sun and festivities continued until they burned out.
Holly, Ivy and Mistletoe Evergreens were used in winter solstice festivals to bring good luck and signify the coming spring. The tradition of hanging mistletoe in the house is an ancient Druid custom to ward off evil spirits, but in Norse mythology it’s also a symbol of love (hence kissing under the mistletoe).
Christmas Pudding The original ‘Christmas pudding’ was frumenty, a thin 14th century porridge containing raisins, currants, prunes, wine, spices, beef and mutton. However, by around 1650, people ate plum pudding, and by Victorian times, it was similar to the modern-day Christmas pud.
The Christmas Tree
Celts also burned a Yule log, believing it persuaded the sun to return and bestowed good luck on those who dragged it from
Evergreen fir trees have been used in winter festivals for thousands of years to symbolise the coming spring and everlasting life, although they were often hung upside down from the ceiling rather than stood upright. ‘Christmas trees’ emerged in the 1500s in town squares but took time to come into people’s houses. The Royal Family had one from Georgian times, but an 1848 photo of Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and
the forest.
their family gathered around theirs popularised the idea.
A Merry Christmas Christmas wasn’t celebrated widely in the UK until the Middle Ages, when it was predominantly a time for merrymaking and feasting on animals too expensive to feed through winter. It was later banned for many years by the Puritans for its Pagan origins. It began to recover in Georgian times with a focus on charity and gift-giving, paving the way for the idealised Victorian Christmas described by Charles Dickens.
by Alison Runham
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GARDENS & OUTDOORS
OX TOOLS EXCLUSIVE OFFERS...
Wood Chisel Set Sizes: 6mm, 13mm, 19mm, 25mm and 32mm Chisels
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Screwdriver Set - 7PC
5m
Set includes: Flared 6.5 x 150mm, Parallel 3.5 x 75mm & 5.5 x 125mm, Phillips PH1 x 100mm, PH2 x 125mm, Pozi PZ1 x 100mm, PZ2 x 125mm
£2.99 +VAT
8m
£3.99 +VAT
Stafford Park 4, Telford, TF3 3DL 5M & 8M Tape Measure Nylon coated steel 25mm wide blade
01952 200220
www.emerysltd.co.uk
Holt’s Tree Care www.holtstreecare.com
Fully Qualified £10m Insured • Felling • Crown Reduction • Dead Wood Removal • Dismantling • Hedge Trimming • Stump Grinding • Site Clearance Hard wood LOGS supplied 3 Woolpack Close, Shifnal, Shropshire TF11 8HP
Nets, half or full loads FREE DELIVERY
T: 01952 463419 or M: 07800 986690 53
Christmas Elegance
by Katherine Sorrell
It’s all too easy to go overboard at Christmas. This year, why not decorate your home with subtle glamour, creating a sophisticated seasonal backdrop to festive times with friends and family. This living room is welcoming and cosy, but also cool, calm and collected, thanks to a subtle colour scheme of greys and whites, together with touches of texture in the form of wicker, wool and wood. Traditional Nordmann Fir, from £29.99; LED warm white string lights, from £9.99; wool throw, £59.99; Firwood star decoration (set of three), £44.99; Magical Hare cushion, £39.99; tree decorations, from £1.49; all Dobbies.
A glimmer of metal is all the rage, and these minimal, slightly rusted zinc garlands satisfy the trend without adding any bling. Use along the mantelpiece, twined along the Christmas table or hung on the wall. £29.95, Decorator’s Notebook. Set a Christmas table with gorgeous linens and decorate each plate with a simple bauble, pine cone and sprig of eucalyptus. A ribbon finishes it all off. Perth fabric, £49.50 per metre, Ian Mankin.
An intriguing and subtle way to display the twinkle of fairy lights. Bo 80 LED glass-domed cylinder, £13, B&Q.
Beautiful baubles will add class to your Christmas tree. Walther & Co bronze acorn and leaf decoration, £9.99, Cotswold Trading.
Instead of a knitted or hessian sack, how about a pretty, printed fabric design? Night Owl Christmas sack, £5.50, Sophie Allport.
Opt for white rather than multi-coloured lights and, if you are planning to use them on a pale background, make sure you find a set with a clear cable. 120 LED lights, £9, B&Q.
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A wreath and tea light holder in one, this unique accessory in matt brushed brass is the subtlest of Christmas decorations for minimal, modern homes.
Who can resist a delightful Christmas display? This magical woodland scene is dusted with snow, featuring two wooden reindeer silhouettes and warm white backlighting. Aspen forest Christmas scene window light, £14.99, Lights4fun. Photograph: Oliver Perrott
A simple white backdrop with natural, twining leaves is perfect for offsetting the glow of candles. Large silver-dipped candle holder, £29.99; LED glitter twig wreath, £39.99; medium silver-dipped candle holder, £9.99; reindeer bell ornament, £4.99; decorated glass bauble, £3.99; garland (price and details on application); all Dobbies.
IDEAS FOR ELEGANT FESTIVE DÉCOR
• Too many colours together tend to look garish. Choose one main colour theme for each room and stick to it. This season, dark backdrops are very on trend, with accents of gold or brass, while white, beige or grey are classics that always look great, with dashes of red or green for that seasonal feel. • With limited colours, textures come into their own. Think linen, wool, fur (faux if you prefer), wicker and – this year’s must-haves – concrete and velvet. • For this look, avoid twee animals, anything knitted or made from felt, and all-out glitter (a little sparkle goes a long way). • Christmas ornaments tend to be collected over the years, and so can look rather haphazard if all displayed in one go. Carefully choose a selection that co-ordinates and – stay strong – put the rest back in the loft for next year.
HOMES & INTERIORS
FLOOR COVERINGS ACROSS THE NATION OPEN: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm / Sat: 9am - 4pm (UK) LIMITED
T: 01952 60 60 80
Quality Carpets at Affordable Prices Guaranteed Laminate Flooring Supplied and Fitted FREE Measure and Estimate Service ••Cushion Floor from £7.99 Sq Mtr
••Bedroom Carpet from £4.99 Sq Mtr
••Excellent Selection of Carpets
••Discounts for Landlords
••Bleach Cleanable Carpets Available
••We move furniture, removal of old carpets and top quality fitting as standard
••Cord Carpet from £2.75 Sq Mtr
••Can’t come out to us?
••End of Rolls Always in Stock
NO PROBLEM
We will bring thousands of samples to your door
NEW BIGGER SHOWROOM IN HALESFIELD
NOW AT: Unit 2, Kemberton Road, Halesfield 16, Telford TF7 4QS All carpets supplied & fitted • The only way to buy your flooring
CARPET & FLOORING (UK) Ltd Email: info@carpetandflooringuk.com • www.carpetandflooringuk.com 55
Fitted Wardrobes
Lots of storage space at a fantastic price! Lots of designs for beautiful floor to ceiling fitted wardrobes to fit any size and shape of room.
For brochure & price list ring
01952 457980
‘Space Saver’ interior with every wardrobe, for readers of In & Around, is completely
FREE!
New factory showroom NOW open!
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD Across
Down
5. Spicy sauce to accompany Mexican food (5)
1. Twig (5)
8. Country formerly known as Siam (8) 9. Subtraction sign (5) 10. Ornamental climbing plant (8) 11. Engraving or carving in relief (5) 14. Woollen cap of Scottish origin (3) 16. Glass bottle for water or wine at a table (6) 17. Shorebird with slender upward-curving bill (6) 18. Snare, trap (3) 20. Judge’s mallet (5) 24. Extinct reptile (8) 25. Cat-like mammal yielding musk used in perfumes (5) 26. Country, capital Harare (8) 27. Prime minister between 1970 and 1974 (5)
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2. Military trainee (5) 3. Primitive plant forms (5) 4. Heart condition marked by chest pain (6) 6. Technician who produces moving cartoons (8) 7. T-shaped cleaning implement with a rubber edge across the top (8) 12. Mild cathartic (8) 13. Hinged window sash (8) 14. Cardinal number (3) 15. Rug (3) 19. Substance believed to cure all ills (6) 21. Informal term for a British policeman (5) 22. Young sheep (5) 23. Thin porridge (5)
©Puzzlepress.co.uk
HOMES & INTERIORS
YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR ALL YOUR LIGHTING NEEDS SPECIAL OFFER
20% OFF RRP PRICES with this advert Valid until 31-01-18
Make the switch to LED – and start saving money now!
SHOWROOM HAS MOVED A range of lights to suit all budgets
VISIT OUR NEW SHOWROOM AT:
20 Station Road, Ketley, Telford TF1 5AQ
T: 01952 605 006
E: choice@sesshropshire.co.uk
• Wall Lights • Table Lamps • Floor Lamps • LED Lighting and Lamps • Outdoor Lights and Lamps Wide range of Decorative Switches and Sockets also on display OPEN: Mon-Fri 10-3:30, Sat 9-5 & Sun 10-4
Authorised stockists of: Saxby, Endon, Dar, Elstead, JCC Lighting, Forum and Astro Lighting 57
Homes & Interiors
SCANDI WINTER TRENDS
If you thought lagom was a kind of bean and gluggavedur a creamy Christmas tipple, don’t miss Katherine Sorrell’s guide to the Scandinavian interiors trends that will see you (and your Instagram feed) through the winter. Hygge The best known of our Scandi set, hygge (named a word of the year 2016 by the Oxford dictionary) was massive last winter and it looks like it’s here to stay. Pronounced ‘hoog-uh’, the Danish word is not directly translatable into English, and can be a noun, verb or adjective, but the overall concept stands for cosiness and contentment, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, and enjoying good times with friends and family. When you recognise that special moment – it’s the feeling of hygge. It’s well known that the Danes are the happiest people on the planet, and maybe it’s all because of hygge, which is an integral part of the nation’s culture and psyche. The high season for hygge is winter – it helps make long, dark evenings more bearable – and, especially, Christmas. Key elements? Home-cooked comfort food such as porridge or stews; eating with family or friends; candles (the Danes burn more candles than any other European nation) or pools of warm, well-positioned light; reading in front of the fire on a rainy day; squashy sofas and armchairs; a cup of warm cocoa (or tea in a china cup, or freshly brewed coffee, or home-made mulled wine); sheepskins, knitting (especially Fair Isle and hand-knitted socks); hot water bottles; piles of throws and cushions; board games; a log burner. You get the idea. Overall, it’s not about spending money, but trying to be kind to yourself; hygge is when there’s nothing going on to worry or annoy you, and you’re able to take great pleasure from simple things.
Image: Oslo grey and lime cushions, £50 each, and throws, £125 each, all ALSO Home: 01483 608 614; www.alsohome.com
Lagom The lagom trend hails from Sweden, and it roughly translates as ‘not too little, not too much’ – in other words, just the right amount. It’s applied to everything, from drinking coffee to buying a house, and its aim is fairness and contentment (you know how well-adjusted the Swedes are). Apparently, while hygge is a momentary state of happiness, lagom is more to do with an overall approach to life. And this sense of moderation and balance extends naturally to home design – functional, unfussy, minimal and well-made pieces are key, with an emphasis on durability and sustainability. Remind you of anyone? You’ve guessed it – Ikea has created a LIVE Lagom project, in which the Swedish flatpack superstore ‘supports customers and co-workers with products, workshops, bespoke advice and an active community to help save energy and water, reduce waste and promote a healthy lifestyle.’ How else can you incorporate a sense of lagom in your home? Well, keep things simple, declutter, tidy and organise your storage, reduce your carbon footprint (time for LED light bulbs, for a start) and choose furniture and accessories that are paredback and practical, stylish without being showy. Incorporate a palette of neutral colours and natural materials and away you go. Just right.
Gluggavedur
image: Oyster luxury cream sheepskin rug, £69, The Swedish Wooden Horse Company: 01444 414 070; www.theswedishwoodenhorse.com
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It seems it’s not possible to go six months without another Scandi trend taking hold, and the latest is gluggavedur, this time from Iceland. It means, literally, ‘window-weather’, or an overall concept of curling up indoors while watching the world go by outside, specifically when the weather looks nice from indoors but is probably not so great when you’re actually out in it. Make the most of snuggling up in the comfort of your living room or bedroom and looking out on a cold, sunny day by enhancing your window area – beautiful curtains or blinds, perhaps with a pretty tie back or a tactile blind pull; maybe some wooden shutters, a window seat with a comfy cushion and a throw, and even some plants, candles or carefully selected art works nearby.
by Katherine Sorrell
HOMES & INTERIORS
OAKENGATES CARPET COMPANY
CARPETS / VINYLS LAMINATES / RUGS BLINDS
P. J . B LINDS
YOUR LOCAL BLIND SPECIALIST
BUY 2 GET 1 FREE *
On all Vertical, Venetian and Roller Blinds
Exciting range of new Vision Blinds
www.oakengatescarpets-telford.co.uk
5% DISCOUNT WITH THIS ADVERT VALID UNTIL 1 - 2 - 2018
Call now for an ap pointment to see our of fabrics for Cu rtains, Romans an Latest stunning range d Soft Furnishing s
Celebrating 50 Years 1965-2015
PJ Blinds are a Local Family Company with 16 years experience
T: 01952 620 200 Stafford Road Oakengates Telford TF2 6JH
CALL US ON: 01952 541657 for a friendly FREE no obligation quote Visit: www.pjblindstelford.co.uk
All quoted prices include measuring, fitting and vat *Terms & Conditions Apply.
GREAT SAVINGS IN-STORE TODAY
LOOKING FOR A NEW APPLIANCE
THIS AUTUMN YOUR LOCAL ELECTRICAL EXPERT IS HERE TO HELP
EXPERT KNOWLEDGE ● SUPER SERVICE ● COMPETITIVE PRICES ● PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION
FREE
LOCAL DELIVERY*
TYLERS GAS & ELECTRICAL
40-42 St. Mary's Street, Newport TF10 7AB
T: 01952 825111
Also at: Bilston WV14 0EH - 01902 353200 & Wolverhampton WV1 3HG - 01902 422545
www.tylersonline.co.uk
*T&C’s apply. Sold as an agent for Euronics Limited. All rights reserved. All offers are subject to availability while stocks last. Delivery & Installation charges may apply Exclusions and Radius Apply. Prices correct at time of print but can be subject to change. See in store for full details. Images for illustration purposes only. Copyright Euronics 2017. E&OE August 2017. Saving compared to a higher price charged for 28 days in the last six months unless otherwise stated.
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Mercedes
AMG GT C COUPE EDITION 50 FACTS AT A GLANCE Model: Mercedes-AMG GT C Coupe Edition 50 Base price: £139,855 Engine: 4.0-litre V8 twin turbo Power: 549bhp, 670Nm Top speed: 197mph 0-60mph: 3.5 secs MPG: 20mpg Emissions (g/km): 259
What is it?
How does it look?
This is the Mercedes AMG GT C Coupe Edition 50 – a name nearly as long as the range is complicated. In short, this is the second-hottest model in the sports car line up and sits slightly below the utterly bonkers GT R. Think of it as the Porsche 911 Turbo S, with Porsche’s GT R equivalent being the 911 GT3 RS – that’s the only way it’ll make any sense. We’ve already seen the GT C in convertible form, but this is the coupe, and only available currently as a 500-production ‘Edition 50’ special run. It features a monstrous engine, thunderous soundtrack and super GT looks.
That muscle car look might be exactly what buyers are looking for, though. Its long, blunt nose, tight rear and low stance will win the most buyers. It’s a unique look – something that’s pretty unrivalled on the road – and one Mercedes is pegging a lot of the GT’s success on.
What’s new? It’s the engine that steals all the headlines – but more on that in a moment. It’s important to note before we move on that the GT C borrows many of the bigger brother GT R’s technical refinements. Those include active rear axle steering, electronically-controlled locking differential and a wider track than its lesser powered GT and GT S siblings.
What’s under the bonnet? So what about that engine? Well, all GT models feature the same 4.0-litre V8 with a ‘hot inner V’ – a compact engine design that places the turbos on the inside of the engine’s ‘V’, so they spool up quicker. Power output for the GT C is a whopping 549bhp backed up with 670Nm of torque. Those numbers translate into explosive performance with it hitting 60mph in 3.5 seconds and going on to 197mph. It all feels like you’re at the centre of a tropical thunderstorm.
What’s it like to drive? On the road, it feels big and wide. Visibility isn’t great and placing it takes practice – this certainly isn’t a car you can jump in and hit warp speed instantly. It’s got fantastic levels of grip though and despite those tyre-shredding performance figures, it puts those huge lumps of power down impressively well, aided smoothly by a quick seven-speed auto gearbox. The steering feels heavy, perhaps even a little slow at times, but it’s communicative. As the name suggests, this is definitely a performance GT rather than a lithe and supple sports car. On paper, it might be a rival to an Audi R8 or Porsche 911 Turbo S, but both of those would feel far more sports car than this. The GT C is muscle; more raw power and less finesse.
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What’s it like inside? Inside the driver is surrounded by a focused cabin. A large, somewhat intrusive transmission tunnel is littered with buttons and dials and the hard to get to grips with multimedia system is frustrating. We’ve tried the system in a number of different Mercedes’ models now and it never gets any easier to comprehend or use. The touch-sensitive trackpad is clunky and the graphics look dated, especially when compared to the latest systems from the likes of Jaguar Land Rover. The interior feels incredibly cramped too. For what looks like a big car on the outside, it has reverse-Tardis like qualities inside. Taller drivers will find their knees butt up against the bulkhead and the seats don’t recline far enough.
What’s the spec like? Standard spec on the GT C includes 19-inch front and 20-inch rear alloy wheels, Burmester sound system, parking sensors and camera, keyless go and an AMG performance steering wheel finished in nappa leather. It’s topped off by red brake calipers with AMG lettering.
Verdict If you can see past the complicated naming strategy to pick the right model, you’ll be rewarded with a technologically advanced, blisteringly fast and characterful GT. It’s cramped inside for taller drivers, and some of the multimedia system can be infuriating, but there’s no denying the GT C is staggeringly quick, exciting to drive and looks the muscle car part. Buyers will have a tough choice between this and the very capable alternatives from Audi, Porsche and McLaren, though – while Mercedes will be hoping its AMG heritage and booming soundtrack will pull in the punters.
by James Baggott
MOTORS & LEISURE
Gripping deals this winter at Mercedes-Benz of Shrewsbury.
A180d AMG Line 5dr* (choice of metallic colours available) Cash price
£23,127.14
Customer Deposit
£2,499.00
Dealer Deposit Contribution
£600.00
Amount of credit required
£20,028.14
Rate of interest charged
4.76 % (fixed) APR 4.9 %
Total cost for credit
£2,295.86
Consisting of: Interest
£2,285.86
Acceptance Fee
£0.00
Purchase Activation Fee
£10.00
Total amount payable
£25,423.00
Monthly payment 36 monthly payments
£299.00
Optional Purchase Payment
£11,550.00
Duration of agreement
36 months
Annual permitted mileage
10,000 miles
Excess mileage charge (excl. VAT)
8p per mile
Mercedes-Benz of Shrewsbury Vanguard Way, Battlefield Enterprise Park, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY1 3TG 0330 017 3714
Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the A-Class range: urban 30.7(9.2)-72.4(3.9), extra urban 50.4(5.6)-88.3(3.2), combined 40.9(6.9)-80.7(3.5). CO2 emissions 162-89 g/km. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. The above information has been supplied by Mercedes-Benz. *Offer available of selected A180d AMG Line. Order taken from 1st October 2017 and delivered by 31st December 2017. Subject to availability. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Image shown for illustration purposes only. Drayton Group limited is an Appointed Representative of Lookers Motor Group Limited.
MERC0085 In and Around Magazine December Advert.indd 1
22/11/2017 11:29
61
Mercedes
JUST WHAT DO ALL THOSE LETTERS MEAN?
I have heard tell that the way Mercedes names its products is a German state secret, known only to a chosen few and passed down to a successor in a ceremony conducted, behind closed doors, in a castle somewhere in Bavaria. But now, having met my shadowy contact in a deserted underground car park, I think I understand just what those letters, stuck on the rear of their vehicles, mean. Take the two-seater SLK. Those letters stand for “Sportlich, Leicht, Kurz”. In English that’s “Sporty, Light, Short”. Seems pretty straightforward to me. So is the S Class a sporty car then? No - the S Class is a “Sonderklasse”, or special model. K for Kurz (Short) is also used on their “Kompakt” models (some of which aren’t short) and models that have turbocharged engines, as that’s what a “Kompressor” is in Deutsch. I’ll try another letter. E should be easy (no pun). E is for Executive. You see lots of big Mercedes E Class cars. However, E also stands for “Einspritzing”. Not an iced fizzy wine drink, but fuel injection.
How about the letter G? In the 1970s, both dictators and film stars the world over were chauffeured around in the 600 Grosser Mercedes limousine. So G must mean “big, grosser limo”? Right! But only if you are planning to drive your celeb offroad: G, also stands for “Geländewagen”, which is an all-terrain vehicle. We come now to a truck Mercedes make called the UniMog… no, I’m not going to go there. I’m already confused. Still none the wiser, perhaps I’d better try sneaking into that ceremony in the Bavarian castle… By Iain Betson
CLASSIC CAR
ROLLS ROYCE SILVER SPIRIT Gold Metallic Paint Leather interior | Air con
JAGUAR XJ LUXURY LWB
Luxury travel for Your Wedding Day
The Jaguar XJ oozes modern luxury and refinement, its lavishly equipped with full leather interior, dual zone climate control and twin glass sunroofs, it is the long wheel base version so has extra legroom in the back for extra comfort. This is a beautiful vehicle in a stunning cashmere gold colour. All our bespoke packages include a fully uniformed chauffeur service and bows and ribbons. We have various other luxury vehicles available if you have guests to transport to the Venue.
• Wedding Hire • Airport Transfers
• Sea Ports
• Evening Events 7 Seater Mercedes R Class
chauffeur driven luxury cars and minibuses Luxury Cars - Gold Service Bases in the West Midlands & Shropshire
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9 Seater Executive Minibus
A luxury service that is more affordable than you think, call for a free quote...
Contact: Keith Warner on 01902 847145 / 07772 605764 E: enquiries@imageluxurycars.co.uk
www.imageluxurycars.co.uk
MOTORS & LEISURE
RIES
#SMALLVICTO
WE BUY ANY CAR TOO, BUT WE PAY £1000 MORE †
Buy any new car from us and we’ll give you £1000 more than the leading online car buying service will for yours. Simply contact us and we’ll sort the rest. Isn’t life brilliant.
Plus we pay
£2,400 4.2% APR towards your deposit
Greenhous Shrewsbury Old Potts Way Shrewsbury SY3 7ET
01743 231321 www.greenhousvauxhall.co.uk
Representative Flexible PCP*
Greenhous Telford Trench Lock Telford TF1 5SU
01952 265400 www.greenhousvauxhall.co.uk
Official Government Test Environmental Data. Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km). New Mokka X Active 1.4i Turbo (140PS) Start/Stop FWD: Urban: 33.6 (8.4), Extra-urban: 52.3 (5.4), Combined: 43.5 (6.5). CO2 emissions: 149g/km.# All of the following retailers are acting as a credit broker and not a lender: Greenhous Group Limited trading as Greenhous Shrewsbury, Greenhous Group Limited trading as Greenhous Telford. We can introduce you to a limited number of finance providers, commission may be received. *Offer subject to availability at participating Retailers only. Offer excludes Mokka X Design Nav. Personal Contract Purchase. Finance subject to status, Ts&Cs apply. Applicants must be 18+. Finance by Vauxhall Finance, CF15 7YT. 24-48 month term available. Vauxhall Deposit Contribution only available when vehicle financed through Vauxhall Finance. At the end of the agreement there are three options: i) Pay the optional final payment to own the vehicle, ii) Return the vehicle, or iii) Replace: Part Exchange the vehicle where equity is available. UK-supplied vehicles only. Offer applies to private individuals, Vauxhall Partners and small businesses 1-24 units (purchase only excluding B2B supported units). All other customers are excluded. Offers available on orders or registrations from 3 October 2017 to 18 December 2017. #Fuel consumption information is official government environmental data, tested in accordance with the relevant EU directive. Official EU regulated test data is provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. Vauxhall Motors Limited reserves the right to change, amend or withdraw this offer at any point in time. †Offer only on part-exchange for new passenger car registrations by 31 December 2017. On top of other offers excluding Scrappage, Partners and Associates discounts and B2B. The vehicle must be subject to an appraisal of its true condition at a Vauxhall participating Retailer. The offer will be £1,000 more than WeBuyAnyCar.Com’s valuation based on the true appraisal. Participating Retailers only. Terms and Conditions apply. See Vauxhall.co.uk/webuyanycartoo. Correct at time of going to press.
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Should you Invest in Stocks and Shares?
AND IF SO, HOW DO YOU START?
With savings interest rates at a record low, you may be considering whether to take a more adventurous approach with your money. Purchasing stocks and shares is one way to do this – it’s a long-term investment that can reap benefits if you’re prepared to take a risk and branch out from the ‘standard’ savings accounts. Investing in this way can provide you with funds you wouldn’t otherwise accrue, as long as you’re not looking for a return in the short-term. So before we see how to get started, let’s look at what stocks and shares are in more detail.
A small piece of a company When you purchase shares in a company, you’re essentially buying a small part of that organisation. Stock is the term used to cover different types of share, of which ordinary shares, preference shares, and non-voting shares are just a few examples. • Ordinary shares - Also known as ‘common stock,’ ordinary shares provide you with a share of a company’s assets and profits by way of dividend payments, as well as voting rights on issues such as executive pay or the appointment of directors. • Preference shares - Dividend payments are fixed at a certain rate when you buy preference shares. There are no voting rights, but you do receive payment before holders of common stock. • Non-voting shares - These are ordinary shares that do not carry voting rights, although in some instances shareholders may have the right to vote under certain circumstances.
Where does the value lie when investing in stocks and shares? The potential value of investing in stocks and shares is twofold: Dividend payments You receive a dividend payment as long as the company remains profitable, but the amount you receive depends on the type of share you hold. Payments are usually made twice a year, and you generally have a choice of taking the money as cash or reinvesting it in more shares. Growth potential A company’s growth potential relies on a number of factors, including: • Size of their market share. • Management efficiency and experience. • Brand identity and its popularity with the wider population. • Company profits and profit margins.
How do you get started when investing in stocks and shares? Initially, you should determine the level of risk you’re willing to accept. Understanding that there is always an element of risk, however small the investment, and balancing this with the potential rewards, is a sensible approach.
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There are two types of investment when it comes to stocks and shares – direct and indirect. Direct investment This involves choosing the stocks and shares yourself, rather than using the services of a broker or other professional advisor. It’s likely to be cheaper, but you won’t receive the expert direction or guidance that a beginner often needs. There are online investment platforms where you can set up an account and pay for your investments as a lump sum, or ‘drip feed’ payments using a monthly direct debit. Indirect investment You can also purchase stocks and shares through a stockbroker or financial company. They may also provide online services for buying and selling, but you’ll receive a professional opinion on the most appropriate investments based on your circumstances. This comes at a cost, of course, so you need to weigh up the benefits of receiving expert advice if your own knowledge of stock market investment is minimal. www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/investing-inshares www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/investingguides/ article-2537768/MIDAS-SHARE-TIPS-Your-completeguide-joining-excitement-share-buying-stock-market. html www.moneywise.co.uk/investing/first-time-investor/ beginners-guide-to-investing-the-stock-market www.moneysavingexpert.com/savings/stocks-shares-isas www.moneyobserver.com/how-to-invest/investingstocks-and-shares-beginners-guide
by Ann Haldon
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL
Time to Take Control of your Finances? Are you; Wanting to understand your retirement positon? Confused by pension options at retirement? Wanting to make your savings work harder? Looking for a new mortgage?
Pensions
If yes, why not contact us on 01952 455775
Mortgages
Or visit our office at: 4 Church Street, Shifnal TF11 9AA For Professional, Friendly Face to Face Advice you can trust
Protection
Free initial consultation with no obligation CD Financial Limited is an appointed representative of Openwork Limited which is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. Your home maybe repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Our fee for arranging a mortgage is £195.
It is Never Too Soon As we enter the last month of 2017 I have all year regularly encouraged you to use a professional Will Writer to prepare and consider your personal wishes. A Will is a legal document which communicates your final wishes and identifies the people you want to inherit your savings, property and possessions. One reason for not making a Will is thinking you have nothing of value to leave… think again! The average homeowner has a home valued at £200,000+. This is a considerable amount and if you are assuming that your estate will automatically pass to your partner, this is not always the case. It doesn’t matter how many years you have been living with your current partner, if you are not married or in a civil partnership and do not have a Will, your partner is not guaranteed to inherit your entire estate.
investMents insurance
Wills • Lasting Power of Attorney • Funeral Plans
No one knows what will happen in the future... But You Can? A small part you can play is to have your Will professionally written. This can help so much with your family and ensures your possessions go to who YOU want. We will offer you friendly guidance and advice in plain English. Here to help you and your family.
By not making a Will, the government, via the laws of intestacy, will decide what happens to your estate without consideration to your family’s circumstances. If you want to look after your loved ones and make a difficult time easier, make a Will. If your circumstances change, just update your Will.
Contact Alistair at ACW Wills and Estates Limited on
For friendly, professional advice in your own home contact Alistair on 07768 643225.
E: alistair@acwwillsandestates.co.uk • www.acwwillsandestates.co.uk
Compliant with the IPW Code of Practice
07768 643225 or 01952 670534
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What is your role as an executor? An Executor is a person appointed by a valid Will or codicil to administer the deceased’s estate according to the deceased’s will. Being an Executor, is an honour and a very important task but the position can be an onerous one and is accompanied by lots of serious legal responsibilities. Firstly you need to decide if you want the job. You don’t have to do it; you can stand down from the appointment provided you haven’t carried out any activities that indicate your intention to take up the role. This is called renouncing the appointment. If you do take up your appointment what will you be expected to do? After you have found the original Will you will need to: 1. 1.Register the death and organise the funeral. 2. Gather information about the assets and liabilities of the deceased’s estate. 3. If there is a property which is unoccupied after death you must notify the insurer accordingly. 4. Get the assets valued. In some cases an expert valuation will be required. 5. Attend to the payment of any inheritance tax liable to be
paid from estate funds 6. Apply for Grant of Probate if one is required. This is an order from Court which confirms your authority as executor. 7. Collect in the estate assets. This will involve writing to banks, brokers, pension companies, insurance and assurance companies, etc. and possibly selling a house. 8. Open an executor’s bank account to pay estate money into and to keep estate money separate from your own. 9. Pay estate liabilities and estate expenses (including funeral costs). 10. Consider giving notice to creditors by way of a process called section 27 Trustee Act Notices. 11. Once the assets are collected and the liabilities are paid and you are certain there are no pending legal claims against the estate you will need to distribute the estate to the beneficiaries according to the Will. An Executor can choose to instruct solicitors to act on their behalf in the administration of the deceased’s estate. Any legal fees that are incurred are paid by the estate. If you would like information about estate administration please contact Toni Laycock or Joyce Anderson at Parry Carver Solicitors on 01952 641291.
Free Will Writing Service Parry Carver Solicitors are supporting Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s Free Will Writing Service, which is available for those aged 55 and over. Whether you are looking to make your first Will or update an existing one, it’s important that you properly plan your financial affairs to ensure your loved ones are looked after. Talk to us at Parry Carver today about having your Will written for free, for that extra peace of mind.
7 Church Street, Wellington, Telford TF1 1BX
The Forum, Victoria Road, Shifnal TF11 8FE
Tel: 01952 641 291
Tel: 01952 460 777
Mon - Fri 8.30am - 5pm Sat 9am - 12pm
Mon - Fri 8.30am - 5pm Sat by appointment
Authorised & regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority - Parry Carver SRA 71413
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BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL
Kalidescope Ltd THE EASY WAY TO GET YOUR COMPANY ONLINE We design and host tailor made websites at affordable prices for the small to medium sized business. Training, follow up and support is always available to complete the package.
WEBSITE DESIGN
Multiple platforms available to suit your needs
All websites are built to be cross device friendly, so if you are looking at them on your PC, tablet or phone the text and images will automatically resize so the viewer can see the site as intended.
Tel: 01952 608760 • Email: enquiries@kalidescope.co.uk • www.kalidescope.co.uk
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New Technologies
TO HELP YOU MAKE A 'GREEN' EXIT
Even with the best of intentions, it’s almost impossible to avoid leaving a carbon footprint during your lifetime. Use any form of motor transport, throw away an item destined for landfill or switch on your heating on a cold day and by these simple actions you will be contributing to environmental pollution and - it is widely believed climate change. “But it’ll all stop when I’m dead!” I hear you say. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work like that. There is one final hurdle to jump before you can truly claim to have passed beyond the point of affecting the environment, and that’s the way you choose to dispose of your earthly remains. In the UK today, cremation is probably the most common form of disposal. It began to win favour in the crowded towns and cities of the Victorian era when one of the queen’s physicians, Sir Henry Thompson, stated that it was “becoming a necessary sanitary precaution against the propagation of disease among a population daily growing larger in relation to the area it occupied”. He also believed that cremation would prevent the risk of premature burial, make funerals less costly and protect mourners from having to stand by the graveside in bad weather! Last year a survey carried out by the government website YouGov discovered that while 17% of people in the UK want to be buried when they die, almost six out of ten would prefer to be cremated. It takes a huge amount of energy to reduce a human body to ashes, and crematoria use industrial furnaces capable of generating temperatures of 870-980 °C (1,6001,800 °F). Despite the generation of so much heat, it can take between one and three hours to complete a cremation. As well as using energy, the process also releases toxins in the form of gases, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrogen chloride, dioxins, furans and formaldehyde. Despite strict filtration rules, a small amount of mercury also manages to escape into the earth’s atmosphere. In the UK, 16% of all mercury pollution results from the cremation process. Most people assume that burials are less likely to damage the environment and it’s true that they can be more eco-friendly, provided the coffin and everything inside is made of natural materials. However, some of the processes involved in burial can release damaging chemicals; for example, embalming fluid - a recognised carcinogen - will eventually leach into the soil, while coffins made of hardwood take a long time to break down and any plastic fittings attached will probably release toxins as they degrade. That’s not to mention any concrete or steel used in the creation of burial vaults, nor the upkeep of burial grounds, where energy and resources are required to maintain the lawns, pathways and flowerbeds. Less maintenance is required if bodies are interred in a natural environment, and many woodland or meadow burial sites offer the added benefit of a lovely view, providing tranquil surroundings for visitors to the grave.
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Despite the potential of burial to create fewer environmental hazards, it is not for everyone: once the body is interred, natural processes get to work, gradually breaking it down until only the bones remain. Not all of us like the thought of allowing our bodies to degrade in this way, but recently families in the USA and Canada have been able to sign up to methods of disposal that offer an alternative to conventional burial or cremation. Alkaline hydrolysis - known as Resomation and often dubbed “green cremation” - is a chemical process similar to natural anaerobic digestion (a process already used in medical clinics). The body is placed in water inside an aluminium container and the soft tissue is then broken down into a nontoxic liquid, using a combination of potassium hydroxide, heat and pressure. While flame-based cremation reduces the body to a relatively small amount of ashes, this method leaves the skeleton, as well as any medical implants, completely intact. The bones can subsequently be buried, or ground to a powder similar to cremated ashes. For many the idea of being immersed in a water-based solution is preferable to conventional cremation and there are indications that the technique may soon become available in the UK, although currently there are only around 14 funeral directors in the world offering this ‘green’ option. Further ‘green’ methods in the pipeline are Cryomation - where a body is freeze-dried in liquid nitrogen then broken up into granules for burial - and ecoLegacy, where the body is cooled, then reduced to powder using pressure waves. Just 5% of the respondents in YouGov’s survey said they were looking for “something else” when it came to the disposal of their mortal remains, so it’s difficult to predict what the level of take-up will be when all these new options become available in the UK. Although the British public may initially be slow to break with established tradition, the introduction of ‘greener’ forms of burial and cremation will at least provide a wider choice for those of us seeking to leave the lightest possible carbon footprint on our planet.
by Kate McLelland
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL
T
HE SHROPSHIRE FUNERAL PLAN is provided by experienced, local and
qualified independent funeral professionals ~ experts in their field of work
For your complete peace of mind please talk to us and gain expert local advice regarding your every requirement.
Funeral Plan
We are a telephone call away
· A local Funeral Plan price · A local independent Funeral Director · Funds held in a Guaranteed Whole of Life Assurance Policy
Shropshire Funeral Plans from £1,995
The C.J. Williams Funeral Service of Telford
The C.J. Williams Funeral Service of Telford
Harry Edwards and Sons Funeral Directors
John Williams Funeral Service of Shifnal
Tel: 01952 505835
Tel: 01952 580616
Tel: 01952 244949
Tel: 01952 460669
Argyll House, Dawley Bank, Telford TF4 2BB
Fletcher House, Court Street, Madeley, Telford TF7 5EP
1 High Street, Wellington, Telford TF1 1JW
28 Bradford Street, Shifnal TF11 8AU
www.theshropshirefuneralplan.com
Drink Driving
As the Christmas party season fast approaches typical warnings are circulated about drinking and driving and the natural consequences. Police and emergency services campaign to highlight to the public and to offenders the risks posed by getting behind the wheel after drinking and the consequences that follow. However, even those who order a taxi or appoint a designated driver on the night are at risk of prosecution. The human body processes alcohol at a rate which means, depending on when you stop drinking, you could still be over the limit to drive the next morning. Oliver Nicholas, motoring specialist at Terry Jones Solicitors, recently commented, “Many, many people are prosecuted nationally for driving with excess alcohol after a long night out. Of those people quite a few were stopped next morning and didn’t even realise they were over the limit. Even so, they are still liable to be fined (or worse) and banned from driving for at least 12 months. At Christmas that’s not a present that you want!" Depending on the reading in breath or blood provided at the police station the punishment could range from a fine, to a community order and even all the way to a prison sentence. Recent figures suggest 12% of all death in reported road traffic accidents involved drivers over the drink-drive limit. That figure excludes those harmed or seriously injured as a result of driving with excess alcohol. The guidance appears to be, “If in doubt, don’t." If something occurs and you are detained over Christmas rest assured Terry Jones crime department are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Find us on Facebook or call us during the day on 01952 297979 or out of hours on 07921 694246 / 07850 033551. Police station representation is Oliver Nicholas free and independent and here to help.
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Don't move... improve!
Create that extra living space that you and your family deserve with one of our fabulous orangeries designed to suit you and your growing family's needs
THE COMPLETE HOME IMPROVEMENT COMPANY At R&R Services we specialise in creating that perfect living space within your existing home. Your garage could be converted in as little as 2 weeks into that extra room that you have always promised yourself.
• Orangeries • Garage Conversions
Maybe an office, playroom or even a man cave for your biggest child!
• High Quality Secure Windows • Beautiful Composite Doors
Its only a phone call away!
• Bring the Outdoors Inside with our Gorgeous Bi-fold Doors
Call Rob T: 01952 610999 M: 07703 270177
www.randrserv.co.uk
Access Your Loft
THE EASY WAY
With Christmas approaching, more people need to safely access their loft to get their decorations down. Why struggle this year, when it could be so much easier with a Stira loft ladder fitted by Jakes ‘n’ Ladders? Jakes ‘n’ Ladders provide and install fully finished, wooden loft ladders. In addition to this, we offer a loft boarding service. We solely fit Stira loft ladders, all of which are BSI approved and come with a 10 year parts and 1 year labour guarantee. We are also the main distributer for Stira in the UK. We pride ourselves on providing an honest and high quality service, as all areas of the installation are overseen by our fitter, who has over 14 years of experience within the trade. We are happy to provide a free, no obligation quotation which includes a home-visit to survey the job. You are now able to find us on Facebook, by searching www. facebook.com/jakesnladders. Alternatively, you can find out more about the product on our manufacturer’s website, www.stira.com. Don’t delay, give us a ring, just in time for those sleigh bells to ring. You can contact us on 01952 282152 or 07817 431505.
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Safely Access Your Loft! for only
£399
Fully Fitted
This price is for a standard height ceiling with an 8ft drop, width 22-30” Manufactured to ISO 9002 Standard
♦♦We provide a
convenient and safe way to access your loft.
♦♦Each ladder has a 10
year parts guarantee and can be installed in approx. 2-3 hours.
♦♦We offer a loft boarding
service if required at an additional cost.
The Local Distributor & Installer for For more information visit: www.stira.co.uk CALL TO ARRANGE A FREE QUOTE
T: 01952 282152 or 07817 431505
Facebook: jakesnladders
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
SUMMER HOUSE BATHROOMS & KITCHENS
Bathrooms from £2,499
DESIGN, SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION SERVICE
Kitchens from £4,500
LET OUR OWN INSTALLATION TEAM PROJECT MANAGE YOUR NEW KITCHEN OR BATHROOM FROM START TO FINISH!
CALL FOR A FREE QUOTATION www.summerhousebathrooms.co.uk Summerhousebathroomsandkitchens
VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS OPEN: MON-FRI 9-5 SAT 9-5.30
Haybridge Road Telford TF1 6JE
01952 261 317
Charlies Retail Park Shewsbury SYI 3GB
01743 461 816
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The Christmas Technology TIS THE SEASON Survival Guide TO STOCK UP ON There are very few people whose Christmases won’t involve some kind of technology: not just presents, although even the simplest toys seem to come packed with tech these days. You might use technology to provide festive music, or to stream a crackling log fire from Netflix. Here’s how to make sure technology doesn’t trip you up during the festive season.
BATTERIES
First, check with Santa to see what kind of batteries the children’s toys will need, because even the simplest toys often have an electronic component. Having a good stock of rechargeable AA and AAA batteries (and a charger!) covers most eventualities, but some manufacturers like to keep you on your toes by demanding LR44s or CR2032s or other arcane options. Don’t leave it to the last minute: relatively uncommon batteries can be hard to find at short notice, especially if you’re reliant on small shops. Look out your sharp scissors and a small Phillips cross-head screwdriver too: electronic items often come in plastic packaging that’s hard to get into, while larger toys can be secured to their packaging with screws or cable ties. Not every device that needs a charger comes with one - mobile phones in particular tend to come charger-free - so you might need to get additional chargers or adaptors. Check first, though: the charger you need for, say, a new Nokia is the same as for a Kindle or PlayStation 4 controller. If some of your gadget gifts are pre-owned - something that can save you a great deal of money - it’s definitely worth checking that the batteries still hold a charge, because batteries have a finite lifespan. For example, many PlayStation Move controllers being sold as-new on eBay have been sitting in warehouses for so long that their rechargeable batteries no longer hold a charge, even though they are unused. Replacement batteries are easy to get, but not on Christmas Day. If Santa’s bringing a games console, it’s a very good idea to connect it to your broadband well in advance: there’s nothing more dispiriting on Christmas Day than having to wait hours for a system update to download before you can play anything - especially if your broadband has slowed to a crawl because everybody else in the street is trying to do the same thing. And if you’re planning a bit of multi-player gaming with two or more people in the same room, make sure you have enough controllers. It’s a similar story with computers, tablets and smartphones: there have often been quite significant system software updates since they were made. There’s less pressure than with consoles, though, because while consoles tend to be quite huffy - Xbox Ones and PS4s often refuse to let you use online features until you’ve updated your system software computers and mobile devices don’t demand you drop everything. Did we say “drop”? Unfortunately one of the problems with technology as presents is that some gadgets are eminently breakable. It’s worth checking if your home insurance or current account protects items such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops or TVs from accidental damage (and that the excess doesn’t make such coverage pointless) - and with mobile devices for children it’s an even better idea to put their gadget in a sturdy, scratch- and impact-resistant case. That way you can be confident of a smashing time without smashing anything expensive.
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Images top to bottom: Energiser battery charger; screwdriver set from Amazon; PlayStation Move controllers; iPad toddler protective case
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
As seen on C4’s tion Restora n Ma
Installation of Fires & Stoves W CALL NO UR YO TO GET NER R LOG BU ! FITTED
ALPINE
Hetas approved installer of Solid Fuel Chimney Systems
DDFlue Linings DDLog Burners DDStoves DDChimney Work DDRoof Work
The installation of all Wood Burning Stoves or other Solid Fuel Burning Appliances MUST comply with building regulations, HETAS installers are qualified fitters who can self-certify their own work, ensuring the installation is safe and legal.
Call Lee on 01952 276417 or 07813 921907 E: lee.alpine@yahoo.co.uk
A.P.H Windows
Family Run Business Est 1981
01952 680441 • www.aphwindows.co.uk Manufacturers & Installers of High Quality: • Fully Welded uPVC Windows, Doors & Conservatories • Internally Glazed with high Security Locks • Composite Doors • Garage Doors • Fascias, Soffits & Guttering • Building Extensions
ROOM NEW SHOW Orangery,
upstairs with Conservatory with solid tiled effect roof & Composite doors display
Why Choose A.P.H Windows? All uPVC products are made in our own factory Deal direct with the owner • No pressure Salesmen Directly employed craftsmen • Full after sales service No deposit required Our showroom is full of ideas to help you decide on the style & design of your windows, doors and dream conservatory Registered Company 16299
Open 9-5.30pm Mon-Fri & 10-3pm Sat Unit H1, Halesfield 19, Telford TF7 4QT
aphwindowsltd
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Celebrating 35 Years in Business
Est 1982
Shropshire’s first choice for ‘A’ Rated Replacement Windows, Conservatories and Doors Approved Profiles
Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 4:30pm PVCu Brilliant White, Woodgrain Replacement Windows • Doors • Conservatories Leaded, Stained or Georgian Glass Night Ventilation • Internally Glazed for Security 15 Year Insurance Backed Guarantee
01952 301062
Manufactured in accordance with BS EN ISO 9002
(Certificate No FM 30164 - Quality Assurance Scheme, severe Weather Rated to British Standards)
Sunday & Evenings 01952 510595
E: sales@trotfieldwindows.co.uk www.trotfieldwindows.co.uk
Impressive Showroom at: 1 Madeley Road, Ironbridge, Telford TF8 7PP
Quality Bespoke Joinery, Wood Machining and Specialist Moulding Service
• Conservatories • Entrance Porches • Patio Doors • Internal & External Doors & Frames • Sash & Traditional Windows • Staircases and much more...
All Traditionally Handcrafted in our Workshop
Before
After
After
We Specialise in Bespoke New Solid Oak Staircases with Spindles or Glass Balustrading. Or revive your existing Staircase with a makeover in Solid Oak Cladding at a fraction of the cost.
For a FREE Quotation call: 01952 249773 www.selectjoinery.co.uk • Email: sales@selectjoinery.com 74
Before
Unit 23, Ketley Business Park, Waterloo Road, Ketley, Telford TF1 5JD
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
HUWS
GRAY
B U I L D I N G M AT E R I A L S C E N T R E
NEW SHOWROOM KITCHENS • BATHROOMS • TILES • STOVES
Come and see our brand new showroom at our Newport branch. We have a wide range of kitchens, bathrooms, tiles and stoves on display to suit your taste, budget and lifestyle. Friendly & knowledgeable staff • Free kitchen design service Local delivery available • Competitive Prices • Quality Products Opening Hours: 7.30am - 5pm (Mon-Fri) 8am - 12pm (Saturday)
TRADE & PUBLIC WELCOME
NEWPORT BRANCH, Audley Avenue Ind Est, TF10 7BX
01952 810 038 | newport@huwsgray.co.uk huwsgray.co.uk 75
Quality Internal & External Timber Doors
SPECIAL OFFER
6 x Quality Oak Engineered Doors (Standard Imperial Sizes Only)
Supplied and Professionally Fitted Including a Choice of Selected Handles & Hinges
ALL FOR ONLY £1099 (inc. of VAT)
Glazed versions available at extra cost Written Quotations available on request
T: 01952 610795 or 01952 620003 E: thedoor.store@hotmail.co.uk
OPEN:
A CHOICE OF 12 DIFFERENT DESIGNS AVAILABLE
Mon to Fri: 8am - 5pm & Sat: 10am – 3pm
The Door Store @ Classic Fasteners (Est. 1991) Units 6&7, Redland Industrial Estate, Off Station Hill, Oakengates, Telford TF2 9JX
And Make It Work For You
FREE
SPACE CREATION TIPS
BEFORE
You already have the space we make it usable!
PACKAGES
£299
FROM
We will fit you a loft ladder and hatch, flooring and lighting in less than a day Quick, clean efficient, Fully insured and guaranteed AFTER
Call for a free quote 01952 426099
www.revealaspace.co.uk
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Plumbing & Electrical Services
Bathroom Installations by AquaSpark
Aquaspark can supply and install your bathroom Visit our photo gallery at www.aquasparkservices.co.uk
Domestic Electrical and Plumbing Work Undertaken Offering a reliable, friendly and professional service by a fully insured Part P registered Installer AquaSpark are proud to be a Which? Trusted Trader
For a Free estimate call Neil on 07976 097598 or 01952 605996 Email:neil@aquasparkservices.com www.aquasparkservices.co.uk
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Mr. Schulz, Telford - October 2017
Unit C3, Stafford Park 15, Telford, TF3 3BB
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Canada
GLIMPSE OF TORONTO
Toronto, CN Tower and Rogers Centre on Harbourfront, seen from the lake.
Through the leafy gorge of the river Don the city rises like a mirage on the horizon, a gleaming cluster of buildings dwarfed by the slender silhouette of the CN Tower. At just over 553 metres, Toronto’s communication tower is the tallest free-standing structure in the Western hemisphere and the city’s most iconic landmark. Lifts take you to the observation platform with its glass floor said to withstand the weight of 14 hippos and provide access to the SkyPod 100 metres above. The view takes your breath away, from the wooded ravines and sprawling city to the meandering shore of Lake Ontario and the lush ribbon of islands where town folks can escape and connect with nature. In clear weather the spray from Niagara Falls, over 70 km away, is visible. But before making your way to the Falls, as most visitors do, it is worth spending time in this ‘most lovable’ North American city with record temperatures of highs and lows but on the same latitude as the French Riviera. Trams glide through the streets at a leisurely pace, tulips nod in the parks and hundreds of rooftop gardens, now compulsory in all major developments, freshen up the air. The original settlers, known as First Nation, had long lived in the area when Europeans arrived in the early 17th century. The French set up a fur trade but were later replaced by the British, who bought the land from the First Nation for the princely sum of £1,700 plus merchandise. Yet it was only with
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the arrival of the railway in the mid-19th century that the city truly blossomed. According to BBC Radio, Toronto is ‘one of the world’s most diverse cities’, home to 230 nationalities, speaking 160 languages and accounting for an inner city population of 2.8 million. So Ontario’s provincial capital is larger than Ottawa or any other Canadian city. But laid out as it is on a grid pattern, it is surprisingly easy to explore on foot, from the business centre to Little Italy, China Town, Portugal Village or the bustling Dundas Square on Yonge Street, the place for casual eating, nightlife and cheap theatre tickets. Old and new mingle effortlessly: here the historic Parliament and University buildings, there the old City Hall with a clock tower reminiscent of Big Ben, the stylish harmonious complex of the New City Hall, just steps away, the multi-purpose Rogers Centre, home to the Blue Jays baseball team and concert venue - think Madonna or the Rolling Stones - or the Union Station opened by the Prince of Wales in 1927. Markets beckon with local colour, St Lawrence for fresh produce, Kensington for all things hippy, arty and cool, while the ultimate shopping therapy is found in the vast Eaton Centre. For top designer wear or celebrity spotting, however, it’s the Mink Mile in the Bloor-Yorkville district. Then you can wander the cobbled lanes of the Distillery Historic District, lined with bakeries and micro-breweries, visit the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ripley’s Aquarium where you can pet a stingray, or chill out under pink parasols on the imported sands of Sugar Beach. Then there are restaurants and ice cream parlours, coffee and cake shops, but sooner or later the lake calls you back with ferries to the islands and boats cruising nonchalantly along the harbour front, past the mighty CN Tower which dominates the skyline wherever you are in Toronto.
by Solange Hando
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Admaston Firecraft Centre NEW EVONIC
Inset Fires Now on Display
Beat the Cold - Stay Warm this
Christmas!
Visit our NEW showroom: Unit 49, Atcham Business Park, Atcham, Shrewsbury SY4 4UG FREE PARKING
Stoves, Fires, Surrounds & Accessories Full fitting service for wood burners and gas/electric fires Est: 23 Years
T: 01743 761161
Authorised dealers for: Stovax, Woodwarm, Evonic, Dean Forge, Hunter, Dimplex, Legend & Gazco
Email: admastonfirecraft@mail.com
www.admastonfirecraftcentre.co.uk
A LUXURY KITCHEN OR BATHROOM
KNOCK TWO ROOMS INTO ONE - NO PROBLEM!!
View our testimonials page on our website and see what our customers say about us!! We have the skills and expertise to be able to project manage your entire installation from start to finish
Whether its a new kitchen or bathroom you are looking for we offer a complete package for our customers including any building work, plasterers, tilers, electricians and plumbers Local Company with Over 21 Years Experience
Call Sal T: 01952 610999 M: 07976 467 830 www.kitchensbyrandr.co.uk
R&R Services Ltd, Unit B4, Stafford Park 15, Telford TF3 3BB
R&R Kitchens & Bathrooms
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Clean up with
SUTHERLANDS CLEAN CARPETS NOW incorporating A1 Carpet Cleaning
CHRISTMAS SPECIAL OFFER 3 Standard Size Rooms Deluxe Carpet Clean £55
2 Bedroom Semi-House - All Carpets from £85
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3 Bedroom Semi-House - All Carpets from £95 4 Bedroom Semi-House - All Carpets from £105 Single Room from £30 Additional Rooms from £18 Minimum Invoice £30
DELUXE CLEANING ALSO AVAILABLE
EMERGENCY FLOOD WATER EXTRACTION Available
For Product Information or for a FREE Estimate Call
STEWART or KEVAN SUTHERLAND on: 07454 017249 or 01952 403179 We offer a price promise to beat any ‘like for like’ quote on upholstery or carpets (economy or deluxe clean).
PLUMBER A Watson (ACIPHE) Registered Plumber
Home Improvements & Maintenance
HIDATO Starting at 1 and finishing at 49, track your way from one square to another, either horizontally, vertically or diagonally, placing consecutive numbers into the empty squares as you go. Some numbers are already given.
Full Installation of Kitchens & Bathrooms - Including all Plumbing, Tiling (floor & wall), Electrics & Gas as required For a no obligation quotation
Andy on
01952 529765
68 Barn Road, Shifnal Email: mwats@blueyonder.co.uk
©Puzzlepress.co.uk
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HOME SERVICES
From Complete Industrial Workshop Set-up to Home & Garage Workshop Equipment & Consumables Supply
NEW
Extended
5,000 ft2
Showroom
SHOWROOM SALES, HIRE & SERVICE Visit our Showroom for SPECIAL Weekly Offers - New Display & Demonstration Equipment Available
Visit our Ebay Sales Floor
Ex-Showroom – Ex-Hire – Used Equipment as seen on our EBAY Store
SIP 24 Ltr Compressor
SIP 2kw Fan Heater
£90.00 +vat
OPEN: Mon to Fri 8am to 5pm Sat 8.30am to Noon
HIRE SPECIALISTS DIY & INDUSTRIAL
£29.99 +vat
SERVICE
WORKSHOP & INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT
CYLINDER GASES
FLOGAS BBQ & PATIO GAS
PARWELD welding &
grinding auto darkening helmet
TELWIN 150amp Stick Welder
£139.95 +vat
£39.00 +vat
FLOGAS PROPANE & BUTANE HEATER GAS BOC INDUSTRIAL GASES & COUNTRYWIDE AUTOGAS
WELDER TRAINING INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT TESTING
Email : info@telfordgroup.co.uk • T: 01952 290800 Telford Group Ltd • .Enterprise House, Stafford Park , Telford TF3 3BD
www.telfordgroup.co.uk
PAT TESTING – CALIBRATION
FREE SAFETY KIT
(worth £5) with any purchase instore
when you mention this advert
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Retirement
TIME TO CALL IN THE BUILDERS
Most of us dream about the fun things we’ll do in retirement, with all that time on our hands: the holidays we’ll take, the books we’ll read, the friends we’ll visit. But surprisingly, evidence suggests that recently-retired homeowners are spending more time and money on home improvements than on leisure pursuits. When Saga Home Insurance conducted a poll of UK residents who had retired or were just about to retire, it found that most of the people questioned had decided to undertake major household renovation projects, spending £17,000 on average to improve their homes. If you are going to spend more time at home, it’s natural to want to make improvements. But before you start browsing the latest trends in glossy interior design magazines and booking a builder, it may help if you stop for a moment to consider the practicalities.
How long will I stay in my present home? You may want to live your current property for as long as possible, but bear in mind that your needs will change as you grow older. The internal layout may work well for you now, but ask yourself if it will cause any problems in future. Are there steep stairs? Do you need to install a downstairs toilet? Is the property properly insulated? If you are planning to stay on in your home for another twenty years, then it’s advisable to ‘future-proof’ it by making it as energy efficient and accessible as possible. The changes you make now will avoid the need for disruption when you are older and less able to manage household renovation projects. Eco-friendly improvements such as modern insulation and solar-panel heating can make a big difference to your annual energy bills and increase your property’s value in the long run. Other improvements - designed to support you as you age might include adding larger, double-glazed windows that let in more light, replacing garden steps with a ramp, or putting in grab-bars to help when getting in and out of the bath.
How much should I spend on the renovation? If there’s a chance that you might move on in the not-so-distant future, then you should avoid spending money that you won’t be able to recoup when you sell. However much you might crave that up-to-the-minute kitchen or heated garden room, you should hesitate before digging into your hard-earned savings or pension income, unless you are confident that it will be a worthwhile investment. For example, there will be little chance of recouping the cost if you put a £25,000 bespoke kitchen into a terraced house valued at £150,000.
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According to Ideal Home (idealhome.co.uk), one of the best ways to add value to your home is by building an extension or conservatory. The cost of adding a single-storey extension can increase the value of your property by 5%, a new ensuite or second bathroom can add a further 5%, while a new kitchen with plenty of storage can add up to 4% to your home’s value. However, Ideal Home warns that sacrificing a bedroom to create a second bathroom will almost certainly reduce the value of your property. Estate agents can be a valuable source of advice on property trends in your area, as they know what buyers are looking for: so give your agent a call to gain some local insights. Even if you’re not selling at that moment, most estate agents will be happy to give advice in the hope that you will use their services at some time.
How can I finance home improvements? From April 2015, UK residents aged 55 or over have been able to access the money in their state pension pots, spending or investing it as they wish, so this might provide a useful source of income for any home improvement projects. Taking up an equity release scheme is another possibility if you are over 55. This arrangement is similar to a mortgage, but the loan and interest are only paid back to the provider when you die or go into long-term care. However, before you sign up to an equity release scheme you would be well advised to take professional advice, as it will reduce the value of your estate and could affect your entitlement to state benefits. Recent events, including the Brexit vote and this year’s general election, have led to a more cautious, ‘wait-and-see’ attitude in the property market, so this is a good time to explore ways of creating more value in your current home. If you can resist the urge to spend, spend, spend whilst taking time to research the kind of refurbishment jobs that will really enhance your property’s value, you should find that that the investment you make will go on providing benefits well into the future.
by Kate McLelland
HOME SERVICES
There’s no job too small so just call 07973 612 222
We provide a reliable & friendly service at a competitive price
Fully Qualified Electrician Registered 17th edition NAPIT installer Domestic & Commercial Work
CCTV
All our work is fully insured and guaranteed Established for over 30 Years
PACKAGE FROM
• • • • • • • • • • • • • •
All Property Maintenance Fitted Bathrooms & Kitchens Electrical Work (NAPIT) Slabbing & Paving Plumbing Carpentry UPVC Decking Painting Ground Works Roofing Brick & Block Work Plastering & Insurance Work Home Audio Visual Solutions HD & 4K CCTV Systems
£495 Inclusive of Fitting
Visit our website to view photos of some of our latest work
www.telfordmaintenance.co.uk www.telford-cctv.co.uk
9 Colliford Close, Priorslee, Telford TF2 9RZ
T: 01952 201180
M: 07973 612 222
info@telfordmaintenance.co.uk
DEL CORLEY ELECTRICAL SERVICES
Electrical Contractors A friendly family business offering a reliable and competitive service by fully insured NICEIC Registered Electricians • • • • • • • •
All Electrical Work Undertaken Fuse Board Upgrades House Rewires Security Alarms (Wired & Wireless) CCTV TV Aerial Upgrades Electrical Safety Reports (Landlords Certificate) Flat Screen TVs, Wall Mounted Installations “No Wires to be Seen”
FREE QUOTES & ADVICE
For special offers and services visit:
www.buzzsparks.co.uk Call your LOCAL friendly Electrician ‘Buzz’ on: 01952 272382 or 07714 216244 Email: buzzsparks@icloud.com
All Electrical Work Undertaken Reliable, Friendly and Professional Service aaLights aaSockets aaShowers aaUpgrades aaRewires aaAlarms aaGarden Electrics Part P Registered
Full Certification to Current Regulations
APPROVED CONTRACTOR
For a FREE estimate call: 07714 760 244 or 01952 605311 83
10% Discount with this advert
DARWIN
SHAW CLEAN Superb Cleaning
GLASS & GLAZING
Clea ning of Soft Furnishings a nd Hard Surfaces
Complete Glass and Glazing Service ;; 24hr Boarding Up Service ;; Broken Glass Replaced ;; Same Day Repair ;; Replacement Double Glazed Units ;; Secondary Glazing ;; uPVC Windows & Locks ;; Window and Door Maintenance ;; Glass & Mirrors Cut to Size ;; Mirror Etching ;; Safety Filming for Glass
Broken
Glass?
19 Years Experience
1 Hour Response Time to Most Areas Misted Do uble Glaz Can be contacted at anytime ing? day or night - 24hr Response Will Beat any Genuine Like for Like Quote
Call Dave on 07974 499507 or 01952 780200 Email: darwinglassandglazing@hotmail.co.uk Website: www.darwinglassandglazing.co.uk
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A Sure Clean of Quality & Excellence • CARPETS • STONE • UPHOLSTERY • TILE & GROUT • LEATHER • WOOD • RUGS • DRIVEWAYS • CURTAINS • PATIOS • MATTRESSES • DECKING • STAIN REMOVAL & PROTECTION
“ Tim Shaw recommended & used by leading home furnishing retailers since 1997.”
T: 0800 612 8817 M: 07976 559 072 E: timshaw@shawclean.co.uk FREE advice, quotes and fully insured.
www.shawclean.co.uk
HOME SERVICES
WE CAN INSPECT. If we find your gutters are clear, we will not charge you for unnecessary work.
GUTTER CLEANING SPECIALISTS
WE CAN CLEAR. We use a powerful vacuum to reach up and clear debris & even grass from your gutters. WE CAN CLEAN. From the ground we clean your guttering & fascia boards to remove unsightly staining.
Hello, I’m Karl I own & operate GutterPRO across Telford, Newport, Shrewsbury, Shifnal and the surrounding areas. Because it’s my business, you’ll get a personal service and be certain we’ll clear up thoroughly after the job.
How much is it?
We can quote instantly. No visit required. We just need to know how many bedrooms you have & your postcode. Call
01952 457 395
mobile: 07983 724 047 Fully Insured Uniformed Staff Before & After Photos Cards Accepted
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Christmas Postal Dates LAST RECOMMENDED SERVICE POSTING DATES
LAST RECOMMENDED SERVICE POSTING DATES
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD (formerly Airmail) Saturday 2nd December Wednesday 6th December
Africa, Middle East Malta, Asia, Cyprus, Far East , Eastern Europe (except Poland, Czech Republic & Slovakia) Thursday 7th December Caribbean, Central & South America Saturday 9th December Australia, Greece, Turkey, New Zealand Wednesday 13th December Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Poland Thursday 14th December Canada, Finland, Sweden, USA Friday 15th December Austria, Denmark, Iceland, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland Saturday 16th December
CODEWORD
Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a different number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are shown. Once you have filled these throughout the grid you can start guessing words and reveal other letters. As you find the letters enter them in the grid to the right.
Belgium, France, Ireland, Luxembourg
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
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26
UK Inland Services Wednesday 20th December Thursday 21st December Thursday 21st December Friday 22nd December
2nd Class & Royal Mail Signed For速 2nd Class 1st Class & Royal Mail Signed For速 1st Class Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed速 Special Delivery Saturday Guaranteed速
Painting & Decorating
W. E. Dunne Interior & Exterior Work No Job Too Big or Small Over 30 Years Experience City & Guilds Qualified FREE Estimates Contact: Will
Dunne
01952 610443 / 07774 766484 Email: wedunnedec@btinternet.com 4 Kingston Road, Trench, Telford TF2 7HT 86
HOME SERVICES
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Building Work Carpentry Tiling Plastering TURN AROUND Painting & Decorating FROM ENQUIRY TO Plumbing START OF JOB Electrics Roofing/Gutter Cleaning Laying of Laminate & Wooden Flooring Assembly of Flat Pack Furniture Put up Shelves Hang Curtain Poles & Blinds Hedge Trimming Garden Clearance Decking Fence Painting and much more - just call and ask...
HOUR
LOUKA HOME CARE
ALL TYPES OF MAINTENANCE AROUND THE HOME AND GARDEN INCLUDING:
ALL MAINTENANCE WORKS FOR THE HOME PROVIDING A COMPLETE ALL ROUND SERVICE EXCELLENT SKILLED WORK WITH HONEST PRICING NO JOB TOO SMALL
Contact: Michael 07970 019977 | Sean 07886 880963 Email: loukahomecare@gmail.com
Simons Decor
Neil D. Rogers
PAINTING
Interior & Exterior
DECORATING PAPER HANGING COVING WORK
Over 25 Years Experience
DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL
40 Years Experience City & Guilds Qualified
Contact Neil on:
Local, Reliable & Friendly Service
07800 665 596 E:neilrogers711@yahoo.com
Call Simon on: Tel: 01952 413337 Mobile: 07969 690149 20 Pool Road, Trench, Telford TF2 6RL
Painting & Decorating
11 Snowdrop Meadow, Ketley Telford TF1 5WR
FREE
ESTIMATES
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at Donnington Methodist Church: 2nd Sunday of every month - Messy Church (3-4.30pm). Everyone invited. If you are a child you will need to bring an adult with you! An hour of fun, games & craft activities, don’t wear your best clothes. Donations welcomed. We don’t expect you to belong to a church.
Admaston
at Admaston House Comm. Centre: Mon: Yoga; 6.30-8pm Tue: Pushchair people 9.30am-12pm, Guitar lessons 4.30-7pm, Brownies 5.30-6.45pm, Guides 7-8.30pm, Rangers 7-8.30pm Wed: WI 2-4pm (1st Wed of mth), Weight Watchers 5:30&7pm, Bollywood Dancing 6.45-8.30pm Thu: Scouts 7-9pm, Explorers (age14-18) 7.30-9.30pm, Ladies alpha 7.30-9.30pm. Fri: Youth club 7.30-9pm. If you would like further info. on above visit www.admastonhouse.org.uk or contact Moira Hoath on 07722 213264.
Church Aston
Church Aston Gardening Club meets the 3rd Mon monthly 8pm, Church Aston Church Hall. New Members welcome. Sylvia 01952 812092 Crafty Sew and Sews - we meet for sewing, knitting and other crafts at the Church Hall, Church Aston on Tuesdays from 2-4pm. New members welcome. Church Aston Thursday Club meet fortnightly Thu afternoon 2pm till 4pm, speakers, outings. Contact Sylvia 01952 402744 or 812092 at Church Aston Village Hall: Mon: 10-11am Zumba, 11.30-12.30 Beg. Pilates, 2-4pm U3A Sewing/Craft Grp (alt. wks), 7-10pm Whist Tue: 10-12 Tai Chi, 6.30-9.30pm Line Dancing Wed: 9.30-10.25 Easy Tone, 10.30-11.15 Kettle Bell Class, 4.30-4.30 Kids Dance Classes, 7-10pm Whist Thu: 2-4pm Whist, 6-8pm Cubs Fri: 2-4pm Tea dance, 4.15-6 Twinkle toe dance, 6-7 Beavers, 7-8 Scouts Sun: From 7pm Ballroom Dance Lessons
Dawley
at St Paul's Roman Catholic Church: 24th Dec (Sun): 9am Fourth Sunday of Advert, 5pm Christmas Vigils 25th Dec (Mon): 9am Christmas Day Mass Telford Hot Trax Radio Controlled Car Club - Meets every Wednesday at Dawley Social Club, King St, Telford TF4 2AG @ 7.30pm to 10pm. Contact: 07834 808943 Dawley Traditional Market - Every Friday, Meadow Rd car park. Contact 01952 380934 Telford Christian Fellowship, Christian Worship & Prayer for Healing, Sun 10:30am12pm at the Dawley Hse, 2 Burton St, Dawley TF4 2ES. Contact Giles Higgins 01952 272961 www.tcfonline.org.uk Dawley Christian Centre: Mon: 5-8pm Brownies & Rainbows, Tue: 9.30-11.30 - Stay & play groups for under 5’s Fri: 2-4pm - Computer Club (3rd Fri each mth) 9-12 Table Top Sale
Donnington
Players wanted - Tickled Pink Ukulele Band Practice nights Wednesdays Asda Donnington. Uke players needed Contact us at: tpinkukes@gmail.com or call 07939 021162 Oakengates Rangers Colts U11’s Football Club - are looking to recruit male and female players for the 2014/2015 season if you are currently aged 10-11 please feel free to come along.Training every Thursday, 6pm to 7:30pm at Donnington football pitches (near Little Theatre). Contact Nik: 07506 722488 or Saul: 07411 467341. Telford Sea Cadets – Tue & Thu nights 6.459pm, Cadets is for ages 12-18, Juniors 1011. See website for details or contact us by email: Telford.seacadets@yahoo.com Thu - The Creation Station ‘Little Explorer’ pre-schooler arts & crafts sessions. Cordingley Hall, Wellington Road. 10.15 to 11.05 (term-time) Call to book your place 0844 854 9128.
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Edgmond
at Edgmond Village Hall: Toddler group 10.30-11.30 (term time only) - Contact Lindsay 07739 161269 Mon (term time only): Painting - drawing classes 1.00-3.30pm. More details Cynthia James 07722 624 210. Every 3rd Wed of Month - Edgmond W.I 7.30-10pm- visitors £3. Contact Diana Wright 01952 811561 or Diane Renshaw 01952 825564 for details. Every 1st Sat of Month - Table Top Sale 9.30am-12.30. Bacon sandwiches, tea/ coffee & cakes. £5 table, free entry contact Janis 07739 634703 Antoaneta's Writers' Edgmond meet on 1st Wed of month at 5.30pm in members own homes. New members are welcomed. We are a small and friendly group keen to advance our writing. Contact Mark Pearce on 01952 550557 or email markpearce17@ hotmail.com for more info.
Hadley
Hadley Five O Club - for over 50s meets most Mondays 9-45am to 12-noon at Hadley United Services clubroom. Talks, entertainers, trips out, refreshments etc Call in, or ring Keith on 01952-244804. Hadley Traditional Market - Wed every week, Hadley Local Centre. Contact 01952 380934 Telford Wine Making & Home Brewing Club - at Hadley Rest Rooms, (by the Sikh Temple) on the 1st Thu of month 7.45 to 8pm. For info contact Chris Hall on 01384 345408 or Annette Jones on annette. jones234@yahoo.com Parkinson’s Telford & Wrekin Support Group - We offer support and friendship to people living with Parkinson’s, their families and carers. Come along to our friendly group, meet other people affected by Parkinson’s and get involved in a range of events and activities. Castle Farm Community Centre in Hadley, 1-3pm on the last Tue of every month. T: 01952 253877
Horsehay
Horsehay and District Townswomen’s Guild meet on the 3rd Mon of each month at Horsehay Village Hall at 7.30pm. Call 01952 503535 for more info. Horsehay Methodist Church - coffee morning on Wed 10.30-noon. Parents & toddlers on Fri mornings 10-11.30am. Youth group Fri 7-8.30pm (10 to 14 yr olds) National Organisation of the Widowed meet every 4th Wednesday of the month at Horsehay Village Hall at 7.30pm. Anyone interested call Keith on 01952 598924 or Doreen on 01952 502551.
Ketley
Telford Stamp and Card Club meets on the second Monday of each month (except July and August) at 7.30pm at Ketley Community Centre, Telford, TF1 5AN. Visitors welcome.
Lawley
Learn to Play Bridge - at Lawley Community Centre. For further information contact Peter Seager on 01952 419999 Lawley WI meet on the 1st Tue of every month at 7.15pm StJohn’s Church Hall at Lawley. For more info. call Jill Gould on 01952 597994.
Lilleshall
Lilleshall Women’s Institute - Open to all age groups - speakers, demonstrations, refreshments and raffle. At Lilleshall Memorial Hall 3rd Tue of month 7.30pm. Guests £2 per session. Contact Francis Taylor 01952 604718
Madeley
at St Mary's Roman Catholic Church: 23rd Dec (Sat): 5pm Fourth Sunday of Advert
24th Dec (Sun): 11am Fourth Sunday of Advert, 7:30pm & 8pm Christmas Vigils 25th Dec (Mon): 11am Christmas Day Mass Madeley Art Club - meets every Mon (exc. Bank Hols), 9:30am-12 noon @ Jubilee Hall, Madeley - all over 55’s welcome. For more info call Aneita on 01952 590304. Madeley Traditional Market - Tue & Sat – every week, Russell Square. Contact 01952 380934 Life Drawing - every Tuesday 7pm - 9pm at Jubilee House, Madeley. Excellent tutor. For more info. call the WEA 01952 614451 or email telfordcentre@wea.org.uk. 1st Wed each month - Madeley Townswomen Guild meets 7.30pm at the Common Room, Bridle Court, Bridle Rd. Madeley, TF7 5SG Contact 01952 878069.
Muxton
11th Nov - NCT Baby & Children's Nearly New Sale at St John's Church, Muxton. The sale is running from 11am to 1pm (early entry to NCT members at 10:45am). £1 entry to the sale per adult. Any potential sellers to contact nns.telfordwrekinanddistrict@nct. org.uk. Muxton Movers walking group - meet on a Tue & Thu evening, 7.15pm at Muxton School for an hour of fairly flat walking. Sundays, at 6.30pm, cover approx. 7 miles, in 1.5hrs. New members are welcome! at St John’s Church Muxton: Mon: 12:30-2:15pm NCT Bumps and Babes group - for parents and carers with children under 2, £1.50 donation Painting Club 2-4pm (term time), 4.15om onwards Blue Branches Drama Academy. Tue: Tiny Tots (10am, 1pm term time), Rainbows - followed by Brownies & Guides Wed: In Stitches 2pm (1st & 3rd Wed) Embroiderers Guild 8pm (every 4th Wed) Muxton Ladies 7.45pm (1st Wed each mth) Thu: Afternoon Fellowship 2.30-4pm monthly & Beacon 7.45pm Fri: Lunch Club Over 50’s (1st Fri of mth) Sub:Zero – Youth Cafe, yrs7+ 4-6pm Sat: Young Embroiderers (Mthly), Prayer Breakfast (bi-monthly) Available for hire for parties etc.. Sun: Church Services 11am Available for hire for parties etc.. If you would like further info. on the above activities - contact the church on 01952 670033
Newport
at The New Inn, Newport: 3rd Dec (Sun) – Live music - 6 pm - Dawson 10th Dec (Sun) – Live music - 6 pm Bouncing Betty 17th Dec (Sun) – Live music - 6 pm - Half Cut Folk Boxing Day (Tue) – Live music - 6 pm - The Hype Entertain 31st Dec - New Year's Eve (Sun) – Celebrations with live music from Jason Kester & Friends. (Advance tickets only at £5 each - Limited availability! 9th Jan (Tue) - Shropshire WIldlife Trust (Newport) - A photographic talk by Ben Waddams about Shropshire’s Meres & Mosses. Meet 7.30-9pm on 2nd Tue of month (exc. Dec), Church Aston Church Hall, Newport TF10 9JG. £2 members, £3 non-members, inc. refreshments. Gnosall, Newport & District Lions Club. 1st Mon monthly at 8pm - Community Room, Gnosall Fire Station, Wharf Road ST20 0DB. For people interested in helping in the community. Contacts: Pat 01785 780032 or John 01952 273919. Newport Writers' Circle meet on 2nd Wed of month (except Aug), 10.30am in the library. New members welcomed. A friendly group who share their stories in a warm and welcoming way. Contact Mark Pearce on 01952 550557 or email markpearce17@ hotmail.com for more info. Newport (SALOP) and District Male Voice Choir - seeking new members for well established friendly choir, meet 7.30pm on Mondays at Trinity Church Wellington Rd Newport. Novices are welcome, come along for a taster session. You do not to be a Tom Jones, just someone who can hold a note and fit in to the choir. For more infor visit our website, or call 01952 813267. Newport Afternoon Guild meet on the 1st Wed 2-4pm at the Cosy Hall in Newport.
Call 01952 825 287 for further infomation. Newport Bridge Club meet Tue & Thu 7pm at The Hub St Mary Street Newport. We welcome duplicate bridge players of all standards. Interested? Come and join us. Call 01952 814474 for more details or e-mail info@newport-bridge-club.co.uk The Dalen Singers is a small, friendly, mixed voice choir founded 30 years ago in Newport. Rehearsals on Tue evenings, 7pm at Trinity Church, Wellington Road, Newport. If you would like to meet us just come to rehearsals, you will be very welcome, or ring secretary 01952 811741 for more information. Used Toner Cartridges - Shrewsbury Music Therapy Trust are collecting and recycling used printer ink-jet cartridges in order to raise funds to support children with learning difficulties. Drop off at Card n Play (High Street, Newport), box towards back of the shop. Dressmaking Classes at Cosy Hall, Newport on Thu’s - 10am-12.30pm and 7.309.30pm ‘Saturday Sewing Bee’ 2-5pm, monthly. Details and booking contact Catherine on 01952 276061. catherine@ lovedressmaking.co.uk www.facebook. com/lovedressmaking Toy Library in Cottage Care Centre, Newport, every Friday 9.45-11.30, preschool age. Contact Steve Ravenscroft 01952 811935 or just call in. Newport RNA Club - Excellent venue with warm friendly atmosphere. Function room for hire. Mon - bridge club, Tue - open mic, Wed - pool, Thu - bingo, Fri - dominoes/ quiz nights/live entertainment, Sat - live entertainment. Pay on door. Non-Members £3. 07772 611540 Newport French Evening Classes For Adults - At Adams` Grammar School - Conversational Classes Thursdays. For further info call Lynn on 01952 812944 or email lynnjones2@freeuk.com Serendipity Singles, 45+, established in Shropshire, now meeting in Newport. Full details from 07704 792610 Newport Scouts, Longford Road HQ. Beavers, Thu’s at 6pm; Cubs, Wed’s at 6pm; Scouts, Wed’s 7.30 pm. Contact: Liz on 07780 611260 Newport Flower Arranging Class - held every Thursday (starting 25th Sep14) 1:303pm at Newport Cricket Club. Qualified teacher, all welcome, inc. beginners. Contact Catherine Bentley on 01952 811989. The Guild of Silk Painters - meetings are held from 7-9.30pm on the third Monday of each month atCosy Hall, Water Lane Newport. Contact - Margaret 01785 254803, Diana 01785 223339 or Anethia 01952 813101. Female 77 - Meetings held every Wednesday during term time at Newport Cottage Hospital 8pm. Speakers,demonstrations and outings. New members welcome. Contact Chris 01952 811533 Newport Wine Appreciation Group meet from 7pm-9pm on Tue’s at Cosy Hall, Newport. Beginners and more experienced enthusiasts welcome. Contact Geoff on 01743 884658 Newport Life Drawing and Figure Sculpting Workshops – Saturday mornings at Adams’ Grammar School. For further information please call Michael on 07528489320 or email michaeljamespotter@hotmail.co.uk Newport Farmers’ Market – 3rd Thu of every month, The Square and The Buttercross, Newport – Contact Tel 01952 380934 Newport Trefoil Guild meets monthly on a Thursday at Cosy Hall, Water Lane. All members/ex members of Girl Guiding welcome. Contact Cris 01952 253960 for further details. Newport Photographic Club - meet 7.45pm on Tues (Sep-Jun) in the Baptist Church Hall in Water Lane, Newport. See www. newportphotoclub.com for details. Pitchcroft & Church Aston WI - Meetings held 3rd Wed of month in Church Hall, Church Aston at 7.30 pm. Variety of speakers & demonstrations. Guests admission is £3.50. Contact Sheila Johnstone 01952 820294 for further details.
Oakengates
Table top sale - first Saturday of each month, 10am -12pm at the Holy Trinity Church in Wrockwardine wood and Oakengates. Contact Tanya May 07990 767855 (visit our facebook page for events:
COMMUNITY & WHATS ON
Holy Trinity Church Wrockwardine Wood) Oakengates Traditional Market - Saturday – every week, Limes Walk. Contact 01952 380934. The Telford & District branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society hold a Monthly Social on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 12.30pm to 2.30pm at the Salvation Army Hall in Oakengates. There is a short chair based exercise session followed by refreshments & a chance to chat - open to anyone affected by MS. Branch Helpline number: 07866 628593. Boys’ Brigade - Tue at Oakengates United Church - 6pm Anchor Boys, 7pm Junior Boys Section. Friday - 7pm Company Section (boys and girls school year 7+). Contact Dave on 07548 574901. Oakengates Townswomen’s Guild meet on the 4th Thu of each month at the United Reform Church at 7pm. Call 01952 261 207 for more info.
Priorslee
Sewing For Pleasure - Sewing Machine Classes every Tuesday 7pm - 9pm, University Campus Telford, Conference Centre, Priorslee. TF2 9NN All abilities welcome. Call Nicky on 01952 201502 for more details or see our Facebook page facebook.com/MaudeandRose. Tea & Natter at St. Peter’s Church, Church Rd, Priorslee, 2pm-3pm, bring & buy with a draw. Every 4th Thu of the month. Come and join us for a chat with drinks & refreshments 50p – all are welcome. AgeUk over 60’s Pub Lunch Club at the The Lion Inn, Priorslee, meet 2nd Monday of each month. Please contact Pauline Comley for further details 01952 200359 Family Praise at St Peters Church, Church Rd, Priorslee: All-Age Worship, 2nd Sunday of each month, 1/2hour service, 10-10:30am, ideal for children! Contact Chris Harris 07941 961461 or email stpeterspriorslee@ btinternet.com Priorslee Lions Chess Club Monday nights from 7:30pm The Lion, Shifnal Road, Priorslee www.priorsleelionschessclub.co.uk Whist Drive - Every Sat, at Priorslee Scout Hut, 7pm prompt - everyone welcome, Call 01952 242009 for details. Carers` Group meets every last Tue of month, 2.30-4.30pm at the Old Fire Station, Shifnal. Contact Ivy 01952 750228 (day only) for more details.
Shawbirch
Shawbirch Community Centre: Mon-Fri: Little Chicks Pre-School 9am 3pm Mon: Youth Club 10-15 yrs (6–8pm) Wed: Bridge Club (7pm – 10pm) Fri: Telford Stage School - 5.45pm The community centre is available to hire evenings & weekends. For further info. call 01952 248538.
Sheriffhales
Sheriffhales W.I. - Meet every 4th Thursday, 7.30pm at Sheriffhales village hall. For further info contact Janet 07964 370679.
Shifnal
9th Dec (Sat) - Hope House & Help the Heroes Charity Christmas Carol Concert, Shifnal Village Hall, doors open 7pm. Featuring Shifnal Male Voice Choir and Shifnal Ukelele Group. Tickets £5, on th edoor or contact Steven Taylor on 07854 232965 or Ged Heyes on 01952 586968. 23rd Jan (Tue) – Wrekin U3A. 2pm, Shifnal Village Hall. "The River Severn Part 2 Bridgnorth to the Sea" with Brian Draper. Visitors welcome £2. Details at: https://. u3asites.org.uk/wrekin at St Mary's Church, Shifnal: 10th Dec (Sun): 12.30pm for 1pm Parish Christmas Dinner at Shifnal Golf Club. Booking necessary, forms in church or from Fr John. 17th Dec (Sun): 4:30pm Festive fun, readings, carols, stalls & refreshments. 23rd Dec (Sat): 6:30pm Advert 4 Mass. 24th Dec (Sun): 4:30pm Blessing of Crib and Vigil Mass 25th Dec (Mon): 9am Holy Mass Shifnal Diamond Drop-in (Age UK) - first Tue of every mth at St Andrews Church,
Shifnal. Contact: Neil Brooks: 01743 233123 or email neil.brookes@ageukstw.org.uk for more information. Shifnal in Stitches - Informal knitting and crochet group meeting at Odfellows every 3rd Tue of the month, 7-9pm. All ages and all skill levels welcome. Find us on facebook.com/shifnalinstitches or email shifnalinstitches@gmail.com Shifnal Senior Citizens meet every Friday afternoon in the Social Club in Curriers Lane, Shifnal at 2-4pm Membership £6 per year. All Senior Citizens are welcome. Shifnal Tots and Toddlers meet every Thursday 9:15am til 11am in term time at the Youth Club, Bridgnorth Road. Children 4 years and under with their carers welcome. Shifnal Tennis Club - Social play every Mon & Wed 6.30 onwards. New members always welcome including beginners or ‘back to tennis’ , junior coaching available throughout the week. Contact Merill Holt 07762 15270 or Head Coach Ian Gillespie 07761 970759 for juniors. LIVE AT HOME - Support for older people offering friendship and company, activities and entertainment, outings and visits, theatre trips and exercise. Contact Rachel on 01952 879873 Shifnal ART Group - Fri’s 10am-12. £5. Senior Citizens Hall, Curriers Ln. T&C. contact Jim 01952 463211. Get Shifnal On Line - Free computer lessons are on offer from local volunteers in Shifnal library. If you have no knowledge of computers, but would like to learn at your own pace, call 07805 632225. Carers` Group meets every last Tue of month, 2.30-4.30pm at the Old Fire Station, Shifnal. Contact Ivy 01952 750228 (daytimes only) for more details. Shifnal Men’s Link - Meet 3 times a year (Feb, Jun & Oct) at Haughton Hall for a meal with a guest speaker. Contact Chris Blake on 01952 463171 or email: info@ shifnal-mens-link.co.uk Shifnal Ladies Link - Meet 3 times a year (Feb, Jun & Oct) at Haughton Hall for a meal with a guest speaker. Contact Sue Blake on 01952 463171 or email: info@ shifnal-ladies-link.co.uk Stagekids of Shifnal - for 6–16s meet every Thu during term time at The Youth Club, Bridgnorth Rd, Shifnal, 6–11 yr olds meet at 6.45pm-8pm, 12–16 yr olds meet 8pm9.45pm. Contact Sandra on 01952 462759 Shifnal Millennium Sensory Garden - The working party meets each month from March through to end of Nov on the 1st & 3rd Sat’s 9.30am-noon and the 2nd & 4th Thu’s 9.30am-noon. Enthusiastic helpers welcome as supervision given. Contact Pauline - 01952 460914 or Angela - 01952 462627 for more details or just turn up on the day. Shifnal Flower Club meet 4th Tue of every month at Shifnal Village Hall at 7.30pm. Professional Floral Art Demonstrations, Garden Visits & Outings, if you love flowers, come & join us. Call Sue Munslow on 01952 461076 Shifnal Flower Club Workshop is 3rd Tue of every month at Curriers Lane Room, Shifnal - 7.30pm. Learn how to produce your own floral arrangement. Members £2, non members £4. Call Chris Finlan on 01952 750312. Shifnal & District Male Voice Choir meet on Thu at 7.30pm at Idsall School (6th form common room). New recruits welcome. Contact Ged Heyes on 01952 586968, for further details. St Andrews Church, Shifnal - Every Tue 10am – 12 noon Coffee and a listening ear in the Brooke Room. Trinity Methodist Church, Shifnal - Every Wednesday 10am - 12 noon all welcome to drop in for a drink & a chat. Ladybirds tots and toddlers meet every Friday from 10-11.30am at Trinity Methodist Church, Shifnal. All children under 5 and their carers are welcome. St Mary’s Church Presbytery, Victoria Road, Shifnal - Coffee Morning every Thu. All welcome for a drink and a chat.
St Georges
Telford & Wrekin Arthritis Support Group, meet monthly at St. George’s Sports & Social Club, Church St. 7.30–9.30pm. Also organize trips with side lift coaches and a 5 days holiday once a year with disabled access. Hydrotherapy sessions Thu 5–7pm, by appt only. For further details contact
Mrs. Pat Watkins on 01952 618381. at St Georges Methodist Church: Mon - 4pm Rainbows / 5.45pm Brownies (Contact: 01952 293944) Wed - Snedshill & District Over 60’s Club meet 1pm (T: 618221 - Lois Bull) 1st Wed of every month - St Georges WI meet in the Church Hall at 7pm - contact A. Chetwood 01952 618353 for further details. Thu - 6pm Guides / 7.45pm Morningside Ladies Choir (Contact 01952 619347) Thu - 9:30-11:30am - Little Fishes under 5’s group. For all pre-school children and their carers. Meets in the St Georges Methodist Church Hall. £1.50 per family to include snacks and drinks. Contact Kate on 07976 460777.
Telford - Town Centre
Tuesday Group lively discussions in a good humoured atmosphere. Women meeting 10:30 to 12:30 on 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month. Venue subject to change. Contact Brenda on 01952 610939.
Trench
ATC meet at TA Centre, Territorial House, Trench, Telford between 18.45 - 21.30 every Tue & Thu night. Contact number for Sqn 01952 670720
Wellington
9th Dec (Sat) - Christmas Tree Festival at Christ Church, New Church Road, Wellington TF1 1JX, 10am-2pm. 35 trees on display. Refreshments available, also cake stall, ‘water into wine!', TADLOP singers and Christmas present ideas. Severn Harmony Ladies Barbershop Chorus meets every Monday from 7.30-9.30pm at Wellington Methodist Church,New Street,TF1 1LU for singing and fun. For more info. contact Membership Secretary, Carol Shore on 01952 597851 or 07792 862826. Wellington, the home of The Telfordaires Barbershop Harmony Chorus. For the MALE voice. If you can or can’t sing, just like to try, or need some entertainment for an event. Contact us on 0845 463 1618 Art and Craft fun for toddlers - every Friday at 11am at Wellington Methodist Church. Contact Kirsty on 07741 066858 or kirsty@art4tots.com or visit www.Art4Tots. com for further details. Evening Art Classes - at Wellington Methodist Church - Thu mornings 10.30 – 12.30pm. Call Liz Doody, the course tutor for more information or to book your place, on 07970 709116. SUNNYCROFT - 200 Holyhead Road, Wellington. House, gardens and tearoom open Fri-Mon 10.30am-5pm, last admission to house 4pm. Telford Lions Club - Meet on 2nd & 4th Monday each month at 8pm, at the Whitehouse Hotel, Watling Street, Wellington. To find out more about us, our activities and how to join us, t: 0845 833 9585 or email telford.lions@yahoo.com Car boot sale – Every Sunday, Victoria Road and Nailors Row car parks – Contact Tel 01952 380934 U3A Wellington - 2nd Thu of each Month meeting at Belmont Community Hall, Wellington - 2pm. Just come along and see what’s on offer, or visit our website. S.T.A.G.s (Strategic Tactical Adventure Gaming Society) one of the biggest wargaming clubs in the country. Historical as well as Sci/Fanasty wargaming. Open every other Sun from 11am to 15.30pm, first visit is free, we meet at Belmont Hall in Wellington. www.freewebs.com/telford_ stags/ T 01952 417417 Questing Knight Games Wellington Jade Singers ladies choir, meet weekly on Thu evenings 7.30-9.30pm Union Free Church Hall, Constitution Hill, Wellington, TF1 3BA, contact Chris Harris 07941 961461 or email jadesingers@ btinternet.com Wrekin Arts Photographic Club meets every Friday at 8pm at the Belfrey Arts Centre Wellington (Sep to Jun). Details from Sheila Thomas on 01952 617170 or www.wrekinartspc.com Eyton & Wellington WI meet 2nd Wed of every month, 7.30pm at Belmont Hall. Belmont Community Hall in Wellington meet every Fri 11.45am-4pm - Over 50’s, tea, raffle, speakers, bingo etc.. £1.50 entry,
also lunch available at £3.50 at 12pm cooked on the premises. All welcome. For further details contact Margaret Atkinson on 01952 877409. The Wellington Girls’ Brigade meet every Tue in term time from 6-8pm at Wellington Methodist Church. All girls welcome from 5yrs+. For more info. call Tracey on 01952 405178. Wellington Evening Townswomen’s Guild meet on the 1st Tue of each month at 7.30pm at Belmont Community Hall, Wellington. Visitors welcome. Call 413686 for more info. Wellington Central Townswomen’s Guild meet on the 2nd Tue of each month at 2.15pm at the Carvers Close Community Room, Holyhead Rd, Wellington. For more info call 01952 251 364.
Other Areas
Phoenix Club for the widowed - a club for both men and women who are widowed and are ready to restart their social life in a friendly supportive atmosphere. We meet the 2nd Sunday of the month at Codsall Village Hall at 7pm in the summer afternoons and 2.30pm in the winter. We have a varied program of entertainmentand we also organise monthly lunches at local pubs, day trips and holidays. For more information phone Anthea 01952 462905 or Ray 01785 840959. Age UK Lunch Clubs - are held every month at 10 different locations. Ring Age uk Telford (01952 201803) for more details or check out the website: www. ageukshropshireandtelford.org.uk IT Class (for older people) run every Wednesday 3-5pm at Brookside Community Centre. Contact Diane Douglas 01952 201803 ext 001 or diane.douglas@ ageukstw.org.uk Whist Drive - Every Fri, at Buildwas Village Hall, 7pm prompt - everyone welcome, Call 01952 242009 for details. Telford Sign Cafe - want to practice your signing or are you a Deaf Sign Language user who would enjoy helping us! Enjoy a coffee and a chat. All abilities welcome. Meet 3rd Fri of month from 7pm, at The Home Organisation Coffee Shop, Lightmoor. Contact Nikki: nikkibackhouse@ googlemail.com, 07791 724827 Wrockwardine and District Garden Club - Meet on 1st Thu of each month at Wrockwardine Village Hall at 7.30pm. Little Wenlock WI - meet 1st Wed of every month - in the Village Hall at 2pm, new members welcome - contact Diana on 01952 244136 for further details. Severn Sisters WI - Meet every 3rd Wednesday, 7pm at Longdon On Tern Village Hall. For further info contact Paula Pierce 07841 528543 Volunteer and Make a Difference - if you could help Guide Dogs locally with fundraising, sighted guiding or other volunteer roles, please contact Valerie Jobes on 01189 838 756 or valerie.jobes@ guidedogs.org.uk. Further info can be found at www.guidedogs.org.uk. Temponilla a small S.A.T.B. vocal ensemble meet weekly on Monday evenings 7:309pm at Sutton Hill Church, please see web www.temponilla.co.uk for calender of this years events, and contact details if you are intersted in joining the choir. The Wrekin Decorative and Fine Arts Society meets at the Cold War exhibition hall at RAF Cosford Air Museum on the 3rd Mon of the mth at 2pm. Visitors £5. Contact: Louise Nixon 01746 783517 - www. nadfas-wm.org.uk/wrekin.html Telford and Wrekin Ladies Circle is all about fun and friendship – trying something new, relaxing with friends, fundraising & great days out. If you are between 1845 and want to know more contact us at: tandwladiescircle@hotmail.com - 07961 961475 or find us on Facebook. Wrekin Writers meet 3rd Sat of month 9 till noon. Large friendly group that’ll help to motivate you with your writing. Visit www. wrekinwriters.co.uk or call Darren on 01952 405178.
To submit an entry to this feature please email your details to: fleur@inandaroundmagazine.co.uk please put subject as WHATS ON on the email. (Space is VERY limited, so brief details ONLY)
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Local Health, Sport
Admaston
at Admaston House Community Centre (for further info. contact Moira Hoath on 07722 213264): Mon: Yoga (evenings) Contact Janet Evans on 01952 245983 Wed: Weight Watchers 5.30pm & 7pm Thu: Gentle seated and standing exercises for older people. 10.30-11.30am. Qualified tutor £2.50, call Diane Douglas on 01952 201803 for details. Thu: Slimming World - 9.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Contact Sharon on 07775 512563
Church Aston
at Church Aston Village Hall: Mon 10-11am Zumba (easy) @ Village Hall with Nikki 07967 343728 Wed 9.30-10.25am Easy tone - over 50s & beginners Wed 10.30am-11.15 - Kettlebells Class - all over body workout using kettle shaped weight. Contact Kim on 07795 225017 Thu 11am Medau Movement & Dance exercise with Rosemary 01785 822442.
Dawley
Clubbercise - Mon 6.45-7.35pm Dawley Social Club Kings Street TF4 2AG. All welcome no need to book. Contact Kim - 07724 087516 Touch Rugby - Telford RFC, Hinkshay Road, Telford TF3 3BZ. Wed 7pm ages 14 to adult Men and Women no previous experience required. £free. Just fun and fitness to be had! Ballroom Social Dance Class - Dawley Town Hall, Sun 7.30-10.30pm. Call Donna on 01952 567920 Dawley Phoenix Badminton Club meets on Tues 7-9pm at the Hadley Learning Community, Crescent Rd, Telford, TF1 5JU. We support a good club standard of play using feather shuttles. New members and visitors are welcome. Please come along on Club Night or contact Clive Roscoe on 07552 761896. Slimming World (Tue 9:15am & 11:15am) at Dawley Bank - Call Paula on 07791 743509 Pilates Mon 7-8pm at the Pheonix Sports Centre, Telford Langley School. £33 block of 6 classes or £6.50 payas-you-go. Contact Beryl on 01952 462896 or 07971 875372, email: beryl.feely@gmail.com. Mons’ - 8-10pm - The Ironmen & Severn Gilders Morris dance team – great fun, all welcome, men and ladies, at The Telford Langley School, Duce Drive, Dawley, TF4 3JS. Contact us through our website www.imsg.org.uk or e-mail secretary@imsg.org.uk Dawley Christian Centre: Mon - GKR Karate 6.30-8pm Tue - Keep Fit 10-11am, Badminton Grp 7-9pm Wed - Zumba 8-9pm Thu 9am-12pm Help 2 Quit Smoking
Donnington
Bums n Tums fitness class - at Silver Threads Hall, Donnington 6.30-7.30pm. It would suit all fitness levels and is great fun! Contact Cheryl on 07714 610591 or cheryljauncey2@gmail.com
Edgmond
Yoga, Pilates & Legs, Bums & Tums Classes - held in the new Studio at Edgmond Village Hall, Shrewsbury Road, Edgmond, Newport, TF10 8HU. Mondays: Pilates at 6pm; LBTs at 7.15pm; Wednesdays: Yoga at 6pm. Cost: £6 PAYG or £30 in advance for 6 classes. Call/text 07875 661045 or email denisepheasant@hotmail.com to book. Circuit Training - every Wed 5.45-6.45pm (Ladies only) £4 a session, contact Chris Bailey on 07866 641227.
Hadley
Slimming World - at HLC, Hadley - 5.30pm & 7.30pm Contact Sharon on 07775 512563 Daisy Birthing classes: Active Antenatal classes on Sat 10-11:30am at HLC. Suitable for all pregnant mums. Email: janette-davey@thedaisyfoundation.com or phone 07808 066786.
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Thu mornings at Telford Thai Boxing, Hadley - 10-11am Yoga and 11:15-12:15pm Pilates. All ages and fitness levels welcome, including complete beginners. Contact 07852 144119 or email iandglittleford@btinternet.com. Indoor Bowls - Mon & Tue 2-4pm, at Hadley Restrooms. New members VERY welcome, free trial available. For more details contact Peter on 01952 242873. Gymnastics Classes - Monday to Saturday, for beginners advanced gymnasts. Contact: 07905 956644 or email shootingstarsonline07@yahoo. com Piloxing (Boxing, Pilates & Dance) - Mon 6.30-7.30pm. Zumba - Thu 6.30-7.30pm. Hadley Methodist Church, £3.50. All abilities welcome! Debbie 07891 686812
Jackfield
‘Tap into Health’ - EFT tapping workshops. Relief from stress, pain and more. Wednesdays 10.30 - 11.30 at The Gorge Therapy & Training Centre. £5 or whatever you can manage on the day. Caroline 01952 881151 www. carolinerolling.com Mindful Meditation - Sooth mind, body and spirit. £5. At The GorgeTherapy & Training Centre. For more info contact: Diane 01952 881151 www.you-in-mind.co.uk Women’s Circle for Spiritual Development – Are you a woman who wants to develop your spiritual knowledge & be connected to other likeminded ladies; then this is for you. 1st Wed of month, cost £7 book Romella 07894812440 The Gorge Therapy Centre , Maws TF8 7LS Cygnus Book Cafe – Come and join a friendly group as we discuss a “spiritual” book of the month - 2nd Tue of month 10-11.30 @ The Gorge Therapy Centre, Maws Craft Centre TF8 7LS Contact Romella for details 07894 812440 Healing Share – For all Reiki and other hands-on energy practitioners – come and share your healing energy and have some healing yourself – 1st Wed of month & 4th Fri of month. @ The Gorge Therapy Centre, Maws Craft Centre TF8 7LS Contact Romella for details 07894 812440
Ketley
Yoga - Wednesdays 7-8pm at Ketley Community Centre, Holyhead Road, Ketley, TF1 5AN. Friendly class, suitable for all abilities and beginners are especially welcome. £5 per class, no need to book. Contact Debbie on 07790 006815, email debbieyogaone@gmail.com or see my website: www.yogaone.co.uk Stretch & Tone Class - Sunday 9-10am at Ketley Community Centre on Holyhead Road. Class is aimed at increasing and maintaining flexibility and can help with joint discomfort too. Classes are £4 and MUST be booked in advance due to demand for spaces. Call/text Vikki Connell on 07510 186982 Over 50’s Class @ Ketley Methodist church, Waterloo Road, Ketley. Thursday 10-11am. Suits all fitness levels and is a great place to meet new people. £3 per session. Contact Cheryl on 01952 371325 or email cheryljauncey@yahoo.co.uk Slimming World - Ketley Methodist Church on Tue at 5.30 & 7.30pm.
Lawley
Clubbercise - Tue 6.45-7.35pm Lawley Primary School Arleston Lane TF4 2PR (next to community centre) All welcome no need to book. Contact Kim - 07724 087516 Baby Yoga at St. Johns Church Hall, Lawley – Mon 1-2pm, Adult Yoga Mon 8.15 to 9.15pm. Contact Michele on 07970 731174 or email info@mitchytitch.co.uk. www. mitchytitch.co.uk Mummy Movers - St Johns Church Hall, Wed: 7.308.30pm & Thu: 10.15-11.00am. Call: Laura 07929 154 536 / laura@mummymovers.com Website: www. mummymovers.com Stretch & Tone Class - Tue - Lawley Village Primary Academy - 6:30-7:30pm Call/text Vikki Connell on 07510 186982, or email vikkiburnell@ymail.com. Zumba - Mon & Wed - Lawley Community Centre 6pm Call/text Vikki Connell on 07510 186982, or email vikkiburnell@ymail.com.
Leegomery
CJ's Dance Fit - Mon & Wed 6.30pm and Thu 9.45am & 11am at Leegomery Methodist Church, Hadley Park Road, TF1 6QG. Also an Age UK class on Thu at 1:30pm. Call 07793 777659 or email: claire.jervis74@gmail.com for more details.
Lightmoor Village
at Oak Tree Centre, Lightmoor Village: Mon: Hatha Yoga 7-8.30pm, drop-in £4 per session. Call/ text Emma on 07590 437712 or emabyoga@yahoo.co.uk Wed: Help to Quit Smoking 5.30-6.30pm - for app’s call Rachel 07979 540496 Sat: Dance Classes 9-10.15am (7yrs+), 10.15-11am (3-6yrs)
Lilleshall
Adult Yoga class, Mon 10-11am at the Memorial Hall in Lilleshall. Contact Michele on 07970 731174 or email info@mitchytitch.co.uk. www.mitchytitch.co.uk Lilleshall Village Tennis Club - Welcomes new members, Tues, Thurs evenings & Sunday mornings. Junior & Adult Coaching – Saturday afternoons. Complete beginners course for Adults - Tues pm. For further details contact Pauline Coffey on 01952 604757 Lilleshall National Sports Centre - Sutherland Badminton Club - Tue evenings 8.30 - 10.30pm New members welcome. Contact: Amanda Haselock - 01952 677590 Premier Badminton Club are seeking new members. Tue evenings from 7:30pm at Lilleshall National Sports Centre. Contact Anthony 01952 526520 or Rob 01952 840453 www.premier badminton.co.uk Lilleshall Hall Table Tennis Club - meets Mon 7.15-10.15pm in the Ford Hall, Lilleshall National Sports Centre, 12 tables - coaches for juniors & beginners. Sessions £5 adults, juniors. Call Vicky 810355 or Don 416048.
Madeley
Bootcamp/Interval training classes at Bridal Road, Bridal Court, Madeley. Every Tue & Thu 7-8pm. Suits all fitness levels and great fun. Contact Cheryl on 01952 371325 Slimming World- Jubilee House, Madeley High St, Wed at 3.30,5.30 & 7.30 and Sat 8.30 & 10.30am.
Muxton
at St John’s Church Muxton: Bumps n Babes (NCT) 1-2:45pm (fortnightly), sessions £1.50 Slimming World - Mon (9.30, 5.30pm & 7.30pm) contact Celia Powell 07575 123666 Wed: Over 50’s Aerobics (10am) Newport Little Dragons Karate 5.30-6.30pm Fri: Sequence Dancing 8pm If you would like further info. on the above activities contact the church on 01952 670033
Newport
Tai Chi - Gentle exercise to improve flexibility and balance, relieve stress and aid relaxation. Suitable for adults of all ages and abilities. Cosy Hall Tuesday am. Contact Dilys 01952 588838 / dilysd407@gmail.com Groupfit, Women Only and Boxfit classes at The Body Barn in Newport - see website for full details at: www. thebodybarn.co.uk or call 01952 455541. Forton Cricket Club - Fancy playing cricket, we have two senior teams, ladies team and junior teams - for more info contact Clive 01952 825447 or cliverjones1958@ gmail.com Nova Utd FC based in Newport, looking for new players for 2017/18,Training Saturday mornings 9-10.30 Shuker Fields, Ages 7 to 16yrs, all abilities welcome, for more details visit our website www.novaunitedfc.co.uk Martial Arts Club (Aikido) - Aikido at Burton Borough Sch, Newport. Mondays 7-9pm - Adult classes. Contact sensei@meijyukan.co.uk website www.meijyukan.co.uk T: 0845 678 0091 Yoga - Mon 5.30-6.30pm @ Burton Borough School Hall and Wed 10.30-11.30am @ Cosy Hall - with Nikki 07967 343728 Clubbercise Mon 7-8pm @ Burton Borough School Hall with Nikki 07967 343728 Tone & Sculpt - Wed 9.15-10.15am @ Cosy Hall - with Nikki 07967 343728 Junior Badminton Club - we have places available for U11’s who want to learn how to play badminton. It’s £4 per week and includes coaching by a Badminton England accredited Level 2 coach. Saturday (10-11am under 11’s and 11-12 under 15’s) in term time at Burton Borough School, Newport. Contact Des Machin on 07949 192038, E: desmachin@hotmail.co.uk Zumba Gold (easy) Fri 9.30-10.30am @ Cosy Hall Contact Nikki 07967 343728 Farmhouse Shotokan Karate Club, Moreton Millennium Community Centre and Burton Borough School, Newport - Tues, Fri & Sun. For all ages and abilities. Fully qualified and insured Instructors. First Lesson Free. Contact 07890 349451, email shropshirekarate@gmail. com or visit www.shropshirekarate.com Yoga Classes at Trinity Church, Wellington Rd, Newport: Mummy & Baby Yoga - Thu 1.30 – 2.30pm. Dru Yoga classes - Fridays 7 - 8.30pm. Contact Kate on 07989 514317, yogamebaby@yahoo.co.uk www.facebook.com/ yogame4families Zumba @ Cosy Hall, Newport. Tue 6.30-7.30 Contact Nikki: 07967 343728. Salopian Skimmers Frisbee Club are looking for new Male & Female players of all abilities. Wed night at Adams Grammar Sports Hall. 18.30 to 20.00. First 3 sessions Free. For more info email drew.barlow@live. co.uk or join us on Facebook.
& Fitness Classes A small friendly group of people meet every Friday evening from 6-7pm in Burton Borough School to play social badminton and volleyball. If you're interested please contact Mark Pearce on 01952 550557 or email markpearce17@hotmail.com for more information. Fit 4 the Future exercise classes (at the studio near Focus). Mon: Jump ‘n Pump 7-8, Tue: Energize 6-7, Bootcamp 7-8, Wed: Box ‘a’ Blast 7-8, Thu: Energize 6-7, Box ‘a’ Blast 7-8. £4.50 per session. Please call Craig for details 07796 426299.
Oakengates
Telford Fight Factory - Muay Thai, Boxing, Strength & Conditioning. At The Ice Lounge, Eden Complex, Cannongate Road, Oakengates. Fun, family friendly class, age 7-70yrs, Mon 6-7, Wed 7-8. Contact Stuart Whiston 07786 115899 or fb Clubbercise - Excercise in disguise. Easy to follow routines to Banging Club tunes from the 90s with L.E.D Glow Sticks. At The Ice Lounge, Eden Complex, Cannongate Road, Oakengates. Tue 7-8, Thu 7-8. Contact Amanda Whiston 07780 515350 or fb Telford & Wrekin Lawn Green Bowling Club - Est 1982 at Hartshill Park - Oakengates. Club nights Thurs starting 6pm. Competitive and social bowling against other Midlands clubs. New members welcome. Contact Roger Rowley on 01952 612574. Slimming World (Sat - 8am & 10am) at Oakengates Rest Rooms, Charlton Street, Oakengates, Telford TF2 6BD - Call Paula on 07791 743509 Martial Arts Club ( Aikido ) at Oakengates Leisure Centre. Mon & Fri 7.45 / 8.45pm Juniors ( 7yrs+ ). Mon & Fri 7.45 / 10.00pm Adults. New members always welcome. First lesson is free. If you would like more info contact us on: 07929761302. Email us on suekeithhayward@sky.com
Priorslee
Wellington Badminton Club - Sports Hall at Holy Trinity Academy, Priorslee. Club nights - Tuesday 8 - 10pm. All welcome. Contact: Pete Green (Chairman) on 07952 679821 or Jerry Seymour (Treasurer) on 01952 261008 (email: jandmeseymour@talktalk.net). Website: www. wellingtonbadminton.co.uk
Shawbirch
Shawbirch Community Centre: Tue - Antenatal Yoga (5:30-6:30pm), Yoga (7-9pm) For further info. contact us on 01952 248538.
Shifnal
Swimming Lessons - Duck N Dive Limited - Baby, preschool, afterschool & adult swimming lessons across various locations in Telford & Shifnal. T: 01952 301012, Email:info@dndswim.co.uk, Web:www.dndswim.co.uk Line Dancing Classes at Shifnal Memorial Club on Tue at 7.30pm. Slimming World - Shifnal Village Hall - Wed (9.30am) Call Paula on 07791 743509 Meditation followed by group activity every Thu 7.309.30pm at Citizen’s Hall, Curriers Lane, Shifnal. £8pp. Contact Norma on 01952 463876 or email Jehandra@ yahoo.com or Facebook -Jehandra Holistic Healing for more details. Zumba at Shifnal Scout Hut, Thu 6-7pm with Nikki 07967 343728 Clubbercise Thu 7.30-8.30pm @ Shifnal Primary School with Nikki 07967 343728 Tue mornings at St Andrews Youth Club, - Yoga 9:30 10:30am and Pilates 10:45 - 11:45am. £5 per class or £8 for both classes. Thu mornings at Shifnal Village Hall - Yoga 10-11am, £5 per class. All ages and fitness levels welcome, including complete beginners. Contact Gill on 07852 144119 or email iandglittleford@btinternet.com. YOGA every Thu at Trinity Methodist Church, Shifnal Adults - 7.10-8.10pm, Pregnancy 6-7pm, Baby Yoga at St. Andrews Church, Shifnal every Wed 1-2pm. Contact Michele on 07970 731174 or email info@mitchytitch. co.uk. www.mitchytitch.co.uk Laughter Yoga - The fun way to good health. Mon 7-8 pm. Tues 10.30 - 11.30 at Shifnal Seniors Club, Curriers Lane. All ages, all abilities. All welcome. £6 on the day or £24 for 6 weeks. Contact Caroline: 07868240605 info@gorgetherapycentre.co.uk Adult Fitness Classes at Idsall Sports Centre – METAFIT - Mon 6:30-7.15pm, YOGA - Tue 5.30-6.30pm, CIRCUITS - Wed 7.30-8.15pm, METAFIT - Thu 6.30-7.15pm. Everyone welcome! 1st Class FREE !!! 01952 460499 Shifnal Bowling Club - Social Bowling every Thu morning 10.30am-12.30pm. Junior Coaching Sat morning 11-12. All are welcome to our club young & old. Contact Graham McCarthy 01902 372 955 for details. DANCE class 10.30 Wed at St Andrews Youth Club Hall. Exercises & routines for fitness & fun, over 50s, £5. More info www.shifnaldance.moonfruit.com Spaces limited so please contact Sally 01952 461768.
Pilates Mon 10-11am (starting 5th Sep) at the Trinity Methodist Church Hall. Tue 7-8pm at Kemberton Village Hall. £33 block of 6 classes or £6.50 pay-as-you-go. Contact Beryl on 01952 462896 or 07971 875372, email: beryl.feely@gmail.com Shifnal Cricket Club - Junior cricket coaching - Mon 6.30 to 7.30 for boys aged 8-11, 7.30 to 8.30 for boys aged 12 and 13. Girls coaching and boys aged 14 and 15 Fri 6.30 to 7.30. For details please call Kevin Humphreys 07983 120061. Idsall Badminton Club meet at Idsall Sports Centre, Shifnal - Tue 7-9pm. All we ask is that you play to a reasonable standard. Ceroc Modern Jive and Salsa class nights at Shifnal Village Hall. Every Monday (exc Bank Hols) 7.45pm 11pm. New members always welcomed and no need to bring a partner. Contact Mike on 07990 554459, email cerocmidlands@aol.com or visit www.cerocmidlands. co.uk
St Georges
Clubbercise - Wed 6.15-7.05pm St Georges Sports & Social Club TF2 9LU. All welcome no need to book. Contact Kim - 07724 087516 HIITPad Fitness 4 week Intensive Academy. Morning and Evening groups. Held at Bailang, St Gower Street Trading Estate George's, Telford. For more info and next course dates visit www.hiitpad.co.uk Karate and Self-Defence at 1st Priorslee & St. Georges Scout Hall, Snedshill Way, St. Georges on Sun 11am to 12 noon. Family-orientated, from beginner to black belt and beyond. Contact Zanshin-do Karate Chief Instructor Steve Lowe 6th Dan Black Belt for further information by emailing stevelowe59@blueyonder.co.uk "Koshi Wind-Chime Relaxation and Healing" Come for Healing and Relax to beautiful sounds. £5 each. St Georges & Priorslee Parish Centre. London Rd, TF2 9LJ. Every 4 wks Thu 7.30pm. Booking essential 07974 196 421 Nikki Slimming World - St Georges Sports & Social Club. Thu 9.30am, 11.30pm, 5pm and 7pm. Contact Celia Powell on 07575 123666 at St Georges Methodist Church: Tue 5-7pm Synergy Dance Troop (Contact: 01952 612776) Wed - 10.30am Pilates (Tel: 412924) / 1.30pm
Stirchley
Have fun – keep fit. Short Tennis Prime Time Club (over 60’s). Tues 4.45-5.30pm and Sat 2-3pm at Stirchley Recreation Centre. Also Wed 7-8pm at Oakengates Leisure Centre and Fri 5-6pm at Phoenix Academy, Dawley. Novices very welcome. Call Kevin on 01952 825239, Tony on 07837 986059 or Vicki on 01952 618256 for further details.
Telford - Town Centre
AQUABABIES - Swimming lessons for children aged 12 weeks to 3 years. Lessons held at The Park Inn hotel on Mon, Tue, Thu and Sat from 10am. To book your FREE trial lesson contact Lisa on 07598 617442 or Stuart on 01543 572855
Trench
Yoga - Mondays 7-8pm at Our Lady of the Rosary and St Luke Church Hall, Church Road, Trench, TF2 7HG. Friendly class suitable for all abilities and beginners are especially welcome. £5 per class, no need to book. Contact Debbie on 07790 006815, email debbieyogaone@gmail.com or see my website: www. yogaone.co.uk Interval Training class that suits any fitness levels 6:30 to 7:30pm. At The Labour Club, Gibbons Rd, Trench. Proven to burn more fat than any other form of exercise. Also great fun too! Class costs £3.50. Contact Cheryl 07714 610591.
Wellington
Wrekin Shotokan Karate Club, at Wrekin College Sports Hall, Wellington: Wed 6:30pm; Sat 10:30am; and at Sport TCAT Mondays 7:30 pm. Learn authentic Japanese Shotokan karate from team of black belts lead by 6th Dan, Shotokan Karate International Federation, Japan. Contact: Tony on 07841 839372. Severn Spokes Cycling Group - We are a small, friendly and welcoming group of cyclists who run regular, easy paced rides from Wellington through the quiet lanes of Shropshire and beyond. Contact severnspokes@gmail. com or visit www.facebook.com/severnspokes and/or our website www.severnspokes.com Telford STAGS Walking Football - Normal Football rules except NO RUNNING! We play on a Monday morning 9.45 at the 4g pitches to the rear of AFC Telford Utd. All over 55's welcome. Also summer sessions Thu at 18.45. Contact Roy Vincent 01952 245407 for further details.
KAPAP - Martial Arts Club held at TCAT, Haybridge Rd, Telford, TF1 2NP on Tuesday evenings from 7-9pm. First session free trail. Contact Paul - paul@kapaptelford. co.uk or 07737 825263. Immerse School of Diving - we have a training and club diving session on a Friday evening at 8:30pm at Wrekin College pool. Call 0777 377 1619 or email: info@ immersediving.com; visit www.immersediving.com find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/immersediving. An active and friendly scuba diving club, we cater for beginners through to professional level divers, and charge no membership fees or surcharges on your club diving. Slimming World - Wed & Thu at The Glebe Centre, Glebe St, Wellington, 5.30 & 7.30. Call Heather on 07737 734347 01952 289386 or just pop along! All welcome. Piloxing - techniques of boxing and vertical pilates with some dance moves. Fridays 6-7pm at Charlton School £4. For more info contact Annette on 07866 021030. Wrekin Tennis Club - Social play every Tuesday & Thursday evening starting at 7-9pm & Sunday 11am1pm. Based at Oakengates Leisure Centre New players welcome, Contact Alan Pritchard at: alanp52@yahoo. co.uk or 07596 984442 or visit our website, www. wrekintennisclub.co.uk Telford Community Tennis Club, Junior tennis coaching lessons at Bowring Park, Wellington on Sun - 10-11am (4-7yrs), 11-12am (8-10yrs), 12-1pm (11-16yrs). We also have sessions for adult members of all abilities. www.telfordcommunitytennisclub.co.uk E: bob.kerr@telfordcommunitytennisclub.co.uk Friendly Badminton group playing 7-9pm every Thu at TCAT Sports Hall are seeking new players to join them. Come along and try a few taster sessions at £5 per night. Contact Jenny Varley (evenings 6-7pm) on 01952 249277. Wellington Badminton Club - Sports Hall at Ercall Wood Academy, Wellington. Club nights - Tuesday 8 - 10pm. All welcome. Contact Jerry Seymour (Chairman) on 01952 261008 or email jeremy.seymour9@gmail.com Website: www.wellingtonbadminton.co.uk
Other Areas
Swimming Lessons - Duck N Dive Limited - Baby, preschool, afterschool & adult swimming lessons across various locations in Telford & Shifnal. T: 01952 301012, Email:info@dndswim.co.uk, Web:www.dndswim.co.uk Dance Fit at Hollinswood every Friday 2.45pm-3.30pm, call Diane Douglas on 01952 201803 for details. Sutton Heights - Music4health singing for all ages and stages every Sat. Fee £10. 11am-12 and sound healing at 2pm-3pm please book before day. Contact Linda 01952 680232 or visit www.lindaangelis.com Telford Green Gym - Want to get and have Fun? Don’t like the Gym try the Green Gym.Improve your fitness and general well being by getting involved in practical conservation.The Telford Green Gym offers activities all over Telford On Tue, Wed and Thu. Contact The healthy Lifestyles Hub 01952 382582 Arriba Wellness Club - Community Weight Loss Challenge at Fitness First, Telford. Call Lisa Harris on 07580 434325. Yoga for Pregnancy in Albrighton - Weekly classes every Mon 8-9.15pm. Gentle exercise from weeks 15-40 of your pregnancy. Methodist Church Hall, High St, Albrighton WV7 3JA. Classes from £7. Call Rebecca Jenks on 07890 543 508.
To submit an entry to this feature please email your details to: fleur@inandaroundmagazine.co.uk - please put subject as CLASSES on the email. (Space is limited so brief details please)
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MOVIES WONDER
‘Wonder’ is the heartwarming story of Auggie Pullman, a young boy with a facial deformity who’s spent his life in and out of hospitals, as he joins a new school. He’s determined to fit in and show everyone there that he’s just an ordinary kid. His parents are worried, of course, but they know he needs to make friends with other children – and that’s just what Auggie’s going to do. Release Date: 1st December 2017 Genre: Drama Cast Members: Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson, Jacob Tremblay
PITCH PERFECT 3
The Bellas have graduated and are making their way in the world in ‘Pitch Perfect 3’. Unfortunately, it’s not going too well – until one last chance to sing together appears. Every year the United Service Organisations hold a concert to support the troops, and the Bellas have managed to get themselves invited. But they’ve never competed against bands with actual instruments, and their stage has never been bigger. Release Date: 20th December 2017 Genre: Comedy Cast Members: Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Brittany Snow
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COMING SOON... STRONGER
‘Stronger’ is the inspiring true story of Jeff Bauman, who lost his legs in the Boston Marathon bombing. They had to be amputated at the knee, irrevocably changing his life. He’d already been through an unimaginable ordeal, but his struggle was just beginning. Taking on months of gruelling rehabilitation in his attempt to walk again, he became a symbol of Boston’s pride and refusal to be broken by terror. Release Date: 8th December 2017 Genre: Drama Cast Members: Jake Gyllenhaal, Tatiana Maslany, Miranda Richardson
JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE
In ‘Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle’, four teenagers in detention discover an old video game console in their school’s basement. When they fire it up, they’re sucked into the game. They’re trapped in the world of Jumanji, and they’ve each become the character they chose to play as. Now, they have no choice but to take on the most dangerous adventure of their lives – or risk being stuck in the game forever. Release Date: 20th December 2017 Genre: Action, Comedy Cast Members: Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, Kevin Hart Please note that release dates are subject to change and some previews may be shown earlier.
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Notes from your local Muxton Councillor I and my fellow Muxton Parish Councillors will be calling on Muxton residents asking for signatures on the petition calling on Telford and Wrekin Council to start the consultation process for a Muxton Parish Council. I hope we can send a strong message to the Council by getting as many signatures as possible. I have asked the highways department to address the poor state of the speed bumps by Muxton School and the issue of parking on the grass verges around Thornton Park Avenue. Also I have requested grit bins for the Morris Homes development on Marshbrook Way where surface water drainage continues to be a problem.
LEAFLET DISTRIBUTION Do you have leaflets or flyers that you would like delivered with this magazine?
Prices from £40 per 1000 WE CAN ALSO DESIGN AND PRINT THEM FOR YOU TOO! For further details please contact
Fleur Abel on 01952 603457 E: fleur@inandaroundmagazine.co.uk www.inandaroundmagazine.co.uk
Cllr. Nigel Dugmore (Muxton Ward) T: 01952 380237 M: 07528 979395 E: nigel.dugmore@telford.gov.uk
Cllr Nigel Dugmore
Hope you all have an enjoyable Christmas and a Happy New Year. Just a quick reminder that the next Muxton Police and Community Together (PACT) meeting is on 17th January 7pm at St. John’s Church, Saltwells Drive Muxton.
PUZZLE - ANSWERS SUDUKO (EASY)
SUDUKO (HARD)
Down: 1 Stick, 2 Cadet, 3 Algae, 4 Angina, 6 Animator, 7 Squeegee, 12 Laxative, 13 Casement, 14 Ten, 15 Mat, 19 Elixir, 21 Bobby, 22 Lambs, 23 Gruel.
CODEWORD
WORDWHEEL TENDERING
WORD LADDER
HIDATO
Here is one possible solution
KIDS PAGE Mince Pies Collected: 7 Word ELF appears: 9 times
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TRIAL
CROSSWORD
Across: 5 Salsa, 8 Thailand, 9 Minus, 10 Clematis, 11 Cameo, 14 Tam, 16 Carafe, 17 Avocet, 18 Net, 20 Gavel, 24 Dinosaur, 25 Civet, 26 Zimbabwe, 27 Heath.
(others may exist)
ROCK rick rice rile rill HILL
3 Letters ADO AND ARM DAM DON MAD MAN MAR MOD NOD NOR OAR RAM
RAN ROD 4 Letters DAMN DARN DORM DRAM MOAN MORN NORM ROAD ROAM ROAN
5 Letters ADORN MANOR NOMAD RADON ROMAN 6 Letters RANDOM
Books
GIFT INSPIRATION Books make great gifts. If you’re stuck for inspiration or looking for some ideas for your own Christmas wish list, check out this month’s recommendations.
For fans of Sarah Waters and Susanna Clarke. The Mermaid and Mrs Hancock – Imogen Hermes Gowar
The year is 1785 and widower John Hancock finds himself the owner of what appears to be a dead mermaid. The artefact proves the talk of the town and gains John access to a whole new circle of society, a society that includes the alluring courtesan, Angelica Neal. 18th century London is brought vividly to life in this enchanting debut novel.
Enjoyed The Rosie Project and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time? Try… The Seven Imperfect Rules of Elvira Carr – Frances Maynard
Elvira doesn’t see the world in quite the same way as most people. As a result, she lives a fairly sheltered life, caring for her overbearing mother and indulging her interest in biscuits. But then her mother has a stroke and Elvira has to find her own way in the world. With a great storyline, well-rounded characters and plenty of humour to boot, Frances Maynard’s debut novel is a triumph.
Love dystopian fiction such as The Hunger Games and Divergent? Try… The Gender Game – Bella Forrest
In Violet Bates’s world, women rule. Men have few rights and boys can be sent away if they’re deemed capable of aggression. Across the river it’s another story – in Patrus men have the power. Violet is serving time in a detention facility when she’s offered the chance to have her slate wiped clean, in return for completing a mission in Patrus. An enjoyable, easy read.
Fans of The Great British Bake Off will be clamouring for this one… Nadiya’s British Food Adventure – Nadiya Hussain
As Nadiya says, British food today is a melting pot of cuisines from different cultures. This book reflects that, with twists to classic British dishes and more modern favourites. The book ties in with Nadiya’s latest TV series, so includes several of the dishes featured on the show. You’ll find recipes such as Minted Lamb and Apple Pasties, Mango and Passionfruit Jam Roly Poly and Masala Eggy Bread. Recipes are simple to follow, with attractive photographs and engaging introductions.
Love a good psychological thriller? Add this to your wish list. The Stolen Child – Sanjida Kay
Without giving too much away, The Stolen Child centres around Zoe, Ollie and their daughter, Evie. Evie was adopted by the couple from birth, but starts to receive letters and gifts from a man claiming to be her father. A man who says he wants her back. Full of twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
If you like Neil Gaiman and Philip Pullman, try… Hannah Green and Her Unfeasibly Mundane Existence – Michael Marshall Smith
Eleven year old Hannah Green finds the world isn’t quite as mundane as she thought, when it turns out her grandfather is in league with the devil. The world is out of kilter, and the unlikely trio have to work together to put things right. A thoroughly enjoyable read, with great descriptions, bags of humour and believable characters.
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Quality uPVC IN WHITE/WOODGRAIN/OAK
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Shropshire Oaks Tree Care & Landscaping
Cut & Split Logs Available 01952 897712 / 07760 499 481
joeswift20@yahoo.com www.shropshireoakstreecareandlandscaping.co.uk
Fully fitted windows from
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Fully fitted Doors from
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Professional, Friendly & Reliable
www.windowright.co.uk Unit 35 • Hortonwood 33 • Telford
Tel: (01952) 677 232
NPB Garden and Ground Maintenance
We do all types of Power Washing, Slabbing, Stump Grinding, Shed Removal & Replacing of New Sheds, Fencing & Gates and all types of Garden Design. • Fully Trained & Equipped • All Waste Shredded and Removed • Fully Insured to £5m • Free Surveys & Quotations • Commerical & Domestic
Optional full installation service Family business with over 75 years experience.
Qualified workforce
Surveying on all types of trees, hedges & shrubs
GARDENHAND
General Garden & Household Maintenance • All Types of Fencing • NPTC Qualified - All Types of Tree Work Undertaken • House Clearances • All Work to a Very High Standard For a Free Quote call Andy on..
01952 606756 or 07929 950091 10% OFF if you mention this Advert
plumbing bathrooms repairs painting / decorating garden work CALL OUTS Lettings approved
If you would like a polite, friendly person to tend to your gardens on a regular basis at an affordable price, do not hesitate to contact Nigel today!
Grass Cutting Hedge Maintenance Garden Borders Turf Laying Fence Painting Paths Cleaned
CALL Nigel: 07753 690 141 E: nickybiddulph791@hotmail.co.uk •• Lawn mowing & care •• Weeding & pruning •• Tree surgery •• Path & driveway clearance •• Hanging baskets •• Soft garden design •• Border development •• Plant selection & Call Jack Wells on placing •• Grass cutting 07792 556479 •• Weeding of flowerbeds 01952 402647 •• Strimming E: enquiries@wellsgardenservices.com •• Garden Clearance www.wellsgardenservices.com •• Garden tidy up •• Ground care
Do You Need Help to GROW Your Business? No job too small
CKN Property Maintenance Call today for your free quote.
call Karl on: 07914 492367 E: cknhomeservices@gmail.com
Call us free on 0808 808 00 00 (Monday to Friday, 9am – 8pm) or visit macmillan.org.uk Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604).
Advertise in the In and Around Magazine and we can help local residents find YOU!
Prices from just
Call Fleur on 01952 603457
£45
fleur@inandaroundmagazine.co.uk • www.inandaroundmagazine.co.uk
YOGA INSTRUCTOR
Classes and 1-1 Sessions Class at The Arts Centre Telford
Quality Domestic Cleaners
Holyhead Road, Ketley, Telford TF1 5AN
on Sundays 10-11am - £5
For all your domestic cleaning needs
1-1 Private Lessons at TACT or Home Visits
Call Tracey on 07411 610401 or Samantha on 07812 438574
T: 07528 690335 Email: rshyoga@yahoo.com TEL: 01952 604285
d o o w h c Wy
www.wychwoodkennels.co.uk
BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERY
Kynnersley Drive, The Hincks, Lilleshall, Newport TF10 9HS
JBO Services
• TV Aerials, Satellite Installations • Plasma LCD TV Installations • Multi-Room Video (HD) Distribution • High Definition FreeView / FreeSat • Surround Sound System Setup • Full Home Cinema Installations
Weekly or Fortnightly Cleans End of Tenancy Cleans Very Reliable Fully Insured References can be supplied
PJ's Re-upholstery Services Grandfather, Father & Son - 3rd Generation Upholsterer
If your spring goes ping give us a ring! Antique or Modern Sofas & Chairs Dining Chairs Springs & Repairs
07802 491651 01952 610828
NO JOB TOO SMALL Card payments now accepted
www.pjsreupholsteryservices.co.uk
Est. 1976
Audio Visual Installations
HENRY helps babies and young children in Telford have a healthy start.
Expert Help & Advice
We are looking for volunteers to spend an hour once a week, in conversation with parents of children aged 0-5. Volunteers use the 8-week 1-to-1 HENRY programme to help parents who are worried about their child’s weight or lifestyle.
FREE Quotations
Call Jeremy on 01952 228936 or 07860 577169 E: jbo.services@yahoo.co.uk
• Parent friendly, flexible volunteering hours • Travel expenses paid • No experience necessary; full training and toolkit provided
All work carried out is guaranteed for 12 months
Contact Sonia on 07720 090941 or email: healthystart@henry.org.uk
View our range of products online or look out for us at local events!
ADULT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED URGENTLY
Home Inspirations
Call Michelle on 01952 670067 or 07961 848467 E: michelle@homeinspirations.biz
www.homeinspirations.biz
R M D O A N You have two minutes to find all the words of three or more letters that can be made from the letters above. Plurals are allowed, proper nouns are not. The 6 letter word will always be just a normal everyday word.
3 letters: 15 4 letters: 10 5 letters: 5 6 letters: 1
To play an active and fun leading role within a fast paced all girl environment
If interested please visit: www.girlguiding.org.uk/get_involved.aspx
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Index of Advertisers Audio / Visual Goods & Services JBO Services...................................................97 Bathrooms A. Watson Home Improvements............ 80 Aquaspark........................................................76 Summer House Bathrooms & Kitchens.....71 Telford Maintenance Ltd.............................83 Beauty Beauty by Jude................................................ 7 Cedar House Clinic......................................... 5 Heaven..........................................................10-11 Bedrooms Easy Living......................................................56 Blinds PJ Blinds...........................................................59 Bricks & Building Materials Emerys..............................................................53 Huws Gray........................................................75 Jewsons.............................................................51 Builder Louka Home Care.........................................87 CCTV Telford CCTV...................................................83 Car Hire / Executive Travel Image Luxury Car Hire ...............................62 Car Sales (New/Used) Greenhous Vauxhall.....................................63 Mercedes Benz of Shrewsbury.................61 Care Home St Georges Park Nursing Home.............. 45 Carpentry Select Joinery.................................................74 Carpet, Rugs & Floor Coverings Carpet and Flooring.....................................55 Oakengates Carpets....................................59 Children’s Parties/Family Activities Airea51 Trampolining Park........................39 Gaming 2 U......................................................37 Ironbridge Museums....................................39 Chimneys Alpine................................................................73 Cleaning Active Cleaning............................................. 84 Shaw Clean - Tim Shaw............................. 84 Sutherlands Clean Carpets....................... 80 Tracey & Samantha Domestic Cleaning.....97 Councillors Local Councillors.......................................... 94 Decorating Neil Rogers......................................................87 Simon’s Décor ...............................................87 WE Dunne....................................................... 86 Design & Print TEAL Design & Print...................................... 2 Doors The Door Store...............................................76 Driveways & Patios Central Paving............................................... 50 Education Bears Den Pre-School.................................35 The Old Hall School......................................35 Wrekin College...............................................35
YOUR QUICK GUIDE TO EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING IN YOUR LOCAL MAGAZINE...
Estate Agents & Property Barker Healey.................................................26 Coleman Estates............................................27 Julia Weston....................................................28 Lioncourt Homes...........................................29 Nock Deighton........................................30-33
Oven Cleaning Active Cleaning............................................. 84
Farm Shop/Markets/Food Fayre Green Fields Farm Shop..............................17
Plumbing & Heating A. Watson Home Improvements............ 80 Aquaspark........................................................76
Fencing Phillips & Son...................................................51 Financial Services CD Financial....................................................65 Fireplaces, Fires & Stoves Admaston Firecraft Centre........................79 Alpine................................................................73 Grate Ideas..................................................... 99 Footcare The Foot Doctor........................................... 45 Telford Footcare........................................... 45 Funerals Shropshire Funeral Plans........................... 69 Garden, Plants & Building Supplies Bloomsbury Nursery................................... 49 Emerys..............................................................53 Huws Gray........................................................75 Jewsons.............................................................51 Gardening/Landscaping A J Landscapes..............................................53 Gardenhand.................................................... 96 Jack Wells....................................................... 96 Long Fox Landscapes................................ 50 NPB Garden & Ground Maintenance.... 96 Glass & Glazing Darwin Glass & Glazing.............................. 84 Granite Worktops Granite Transformations............................... 3 Gutter Cleaning Gutter PRO......................................................85 Hairdressing Awesome Hair by Karen............................... 7 U2.......................................................................... 7 Health & Fitness Body Barn.........................................................41 Telford Hotel & Golf Resort...................... 40 Home Accessories & Gifts Home Inspirations.........................................97 Kennels & Cattery Wychwood.......................................................97 Kitchens (Supply & Fit) Kitchen Depot............................................. 100 R & R Kitchens................................................79 Lighting Choice Lighting..............................................57 Loft Ladders/Boarding Jakes n Ladders............................................ 70 Reveal a Space...............................................76 Log Burner Installation Alpine................................................................73 Logs Holts...................................................................53
Electrical Goods Tylers Gas & Electrical.................................59
Oak Structures Select Joinery.................................................74
Electricians Buzz Electrical................................................83 Del Corley Electrical Services...................83
Optician Evenett & Bishop Opticians......................47 Tim Vanes Opticians................................... 43
98
Physiotherapy Anna Simons Physiotherapy......................41 SB Sports Injury & Physio. Clinics.......... 46
Printing TEAL Design, & Print..................................... 2 Property Maintenance CKN................................................................... 96 Louka Home Care.........................................87 Telford Maintenance Ltd.............................83 Removals Jays Removals................................................28 Restaurants/Pubs/Cafes Granary Grill....................................................25 Hadley Park House.......................................23 Masala................................................................25 Patshull Park Hotel........................................19 Taste of Paradise...........................................25 Tayleur Arms.............................................20-21 Telford Hotel & Golf Resort...................... 40 The Barley........................................................22 The Bridge Inn.................................................19 The Woodbridge Inn............................... 14-15 White House Hotel.......................................22 Spa Telford Hotel & Golf Resort...................... 40 Solicitor Parry Carver Solicitors............................... 66 Terry Jones Solicitors................................. 69 Taxis / Executive Travel Image Luxury Car Hire ...............................62 Therapy Affinity & Beyond....................... 43Tool Hire Jewsons.............................................................51 Trampolining Airea51 ..............................................................39 Tree Care Holts Tree Care...............................................53 Shropshire Oaks Tree Care....................... 96 Upholstery PJ’s Re-Upholstery Services......................97 Vets Tern Vets...........................................................47 Websites ETAK Creative................................................67 Kalidescope.....................................................67 Weddings Hadley Park House Hotel...........................23 Image Wedding Cars...................................62 Patshull Park Hotel........................................19 Welding/Compressors/Sales & Hire Telford Group...................................................81 Will Writing ACW Wills........................................................65 Parry Carver................................................... 66 Windows/Doors/Conservatories APH Windows................................................73 Gemini Windows & Doors..........................77 R & R Services............................................... 70 Trotfield Windows.........................................74 Yoga RSH Yoga.........................................................97
A range of Solid Fuel Stoves are NOW available
Choose from a wide range of Fires and Surrounds Authorised Dealer for: • Paragon Fires • Montpellier Marble • Gazco and Stovax • Worcester Marble • Esse and many more... • Wonderfire Premier
www.grateideas.co.uk
One of the finest Showrooms in Shropshire
FULL FITTING SERVICE AVAILABLE
Castle Trading Estate, Holyhead Road, Priorslee, Telford TF2 9NP
T: 01952 620189
Email: enquiries@grateideas.co.uk 99
Kitchen Recipe
Take some... Traditional values and service Established in 2003, The Kitchen Depot is a family-owned and run business that remains true to our founding values of honesty, integrity and sheer professionalism. We take immense pride in our reputation for service and commitment to our customers, with more than half of our business coming from customer recommendations to their family and friends.
...add a dash of… Quality and Value
All of our kitchens are manufactured to an exceptionally high German specification, on site, in our own factory and by our own people. That way, we have total control over the product quality, the production timescales AND the manufacturing costs. With no middle-man – you buy direct and we are able to pass these time and cost savings directly onto our customers.
…then a big chunk of…
Ownership and Responsibility
Unusual in this insincere world, admittedly. But we mean it. We are totally committed to providing you with the best kitchen, at the best price, installed with the highest level of service and professionalism. And on the exceptionally rare occasion that something could have been done better – we hold our hands up – and put it right. Fast. No fuss. No hassle. No argument. Just sorted.
...a soupçon of…Harmony At The Kitchen Depot, we know that we are only as good as our people. They ARE The Kitchen Depot brand. That’s why we look after our staff every bit as well as we look after our customers. Because we know that happy workers, pulling together in harmony, make for happy customers.
THE KITCHEN DEPOT Global House, Horton Road off Trench Road, Telford TF2 6PD
BRANCHES ALSO AT Ennerdale Road, Shrewsbury SY1 3NP & Queen Elizabeth Avenue, Glasgow
NOW OPEN 7 DAYS
LOW, LOW PRICES ALL YEAR ROUND! Fictional Sales, factory clearances, scoop purchases and all that gimmicky nonsense has no place at The Kitchen Depot. We’ll leave that to our envious competitors. All you get from us is good, honest advice, a top-quality product that we manufacture ourselves, responsibly and professionally installed, guaranteed for a full twenty five years, and at the lowest , most competitive price on like-for-like quality that you’ll find anywhere. In other words – sheer value.
www.thekitchendepot.co.uk
WHY NOT COME IN TO O UR SHOWROOM AND TASTE THE E XPERIENCE FOR YOURSELF? 100
THE KITCHEN DEPOT FOR THE PERFEC T KITCHEN RECIPE