Award Winning Lifestyle Magazine ISS50

LOCAL Connecting Local Businesses with Local People

50th Issue An niv er

JULY 2018 localbuzzmagazine.com

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Fabulous This month's charity

The

TAN of

2018

2 Parkway Shopping Centre, Newbury RG1 1AY

37 Oxford Street, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 1TN

08000 88 60 90 consol.eu

Welcome

50th Issue An niv er

14

We are 50!

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So much to celebrate this month! Fifty issues of Local Buzz represent the success of our commitment to the local community. From a modest A5 to a more professional B5 size, various interviews with national and international celebrities as well as the support for over 15 charities, Local Buzz is going from strength to strength. I can only thank all the advertisers that have made this possible, our readers, to whom we continuously aspire to bring an array of local, inspiring and educational topics as well as my dedicated team, who have been strong and united throughout our journey.

Thank you to all our readers and advertisers for making Local Buzz their number one community magazine.

Finally, remember to use the vouchers in this issue.

I look forward to bringing you more exciting news next month and in the meantime, enjoy reading this Fabulous 50 issue!

Editor-in-Chief Jackie Osborne jackie@localbuzzmagazine.com

Jackie Osborne - Editor-in-Chief

Designer Vanessa Davis studio@localbuzzmagazine.com Website Editor Charleigh Cox editor@localbuzzmagazine.com Social Media Jamie Blowes jamie@localbuzzmagazine.com Accounts Jenny Flitter accounts@localbuzzmagazine.com Contributors Annabel Milverton and Marce Coluccis Advertise in Local Buzz sales@localbuzzmagazine.com Call us on 01635 200 006 www.localbuzzmagazine.com To promote your event: events@localbuzzmagazine.com Address: 11 Queen Eleanor House, Kingsclere Park, Kingsclere RG20 4SW Your complimentary copy or where sold £2. Thank you for the continued encouragement from our advertisers, supporters and the local community.

FOR A DAILY DOSE OF LOCAL BUZZ

2018 has also marked the first year we sponsored the Thames Valley Venus Awards and we are delighted to tell you that the Small Business category winner is Anna Davis (pictured below) from Therapists on the High Street, a unique walk-in clinic that allows immediate treatment to suit everyone’s pocket.

18

Equity Release

8 Local Buzz 11 Competitions 13 What’s On 17 Fair Close Centre 22 Food & Drink 31 Fashion 32 Swingin' 60s 38 Healthier Heart 44 Happy Retirement 46 Venus Awards 48 BuzzConnect www.localbuzzmagazine.com

Proud winners Best community magazine Best magazine design Best website

Although every effort has been taken in compiling the contents, the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors, omissions or information supplied by the advertisers.

L A D I E S D AY

SATURDAY 18 AUGUST 2018

AT NEWBURY RACECOURSE

BOOK NOW 01635 40015 newburyracecourse.co.uk

Built by Vision Development and marketed through Davis Tate

FOR SALE

Superb New Timber Frame House

The Bridles . 60a Whitehouse Road . Woodcote . RG8 0SA Fitted with high quality materials throughout, including Porcelanosa tiling and sanitary ware, solid oak doors, and feature oak and glass staircase. Cross laminated timber double glazed windows.

Wood burning stove to large open plan living area.

Price ÂŁ985,000 (Freehold)

Offering ample accommodation in excess of 2,500 sq ft, including a large open plan kitchen/dining/garden room, four double bedrooms with three ensuite shower rooms, and a double garage with a versatile room.

Newly built detached home

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Substantial accommodation in excess of 2,500 sq ft

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Double garage with room above

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Four bedrooms, four bathrooms

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High specification

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EPC Rating B

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Plot size just under ½ acre

For an appointment to view please contact the Goring-on- Thames office and quote Buzz 01491 873456

Old home brought into the 21st century

Large two storey extension to the rear of an existing Tudor style cottage in Sonning Common. Giving the original cottage a modern twist as well as all the insulating properties timber frame offers to the entire existing property and new timber frame extension.

Benefits for all

Three Closed panel timber frame terraced houses in South Croydon manufactured and installed by Vision for a developer who needed the homes built quickly to meet his budget but to a high thermal efficiency saving the new owners money on their energy bills.

“

The quality of workmanship was excellent and two of them worked through to get the bulk of the frame finished. We have some way to go but I cannot fault the quality and workmanship.

Mrs Thurgut

Build fast, strong and energy efficient Vision Development manufacture and supply high quality timber frame systems for both new builds and extensions to the whole of Berkshire and surrounding areas. Vision boasts the only in-house manufacturing facility of timber frames in Berkshire with their own designer, workshops and installation teams ensuring an efficient process from approval drawings, to fabrication, to on-site.

Vision are a family owned and managed business who have been in the construction industry for over 30 years successfully building homes for the self-build and commercial industry.

Choosing timber frame as a construction method with its strength, flexibility in

design, eco-friendly properties, speed of construction and off-site fabrication benefits mean the timber frames Vision supply are the ideal building solution.

The frames are quality controlled within a factory environment and efficiently installed by experienced erecting teams.

Harmony with the natural woodlands

Prestigious ‘Yarrells Preparatory school’ in Poole, new classroom building housing six new classrooms and modern open plan hall. This state of the art, eco-friendly building creates a lowimpact structure using natural materials and low-lying roof design to harmonise with the natural woodlands surrounding it. Vision manufactured the entire structure and built the timber roof on site due to the complex design. The entire structure was built in six weeks with first fix services commencing internally as the roof was finished.

Superfast system for Developers Thirteen new homes and five flats all in timber frame, manufactured and installed by Vision to Bath Road, Padworth.

The installation commenced on the 23rd October 2017 and all but five houses have now been sold, most off-plan. The new development benefits from our open panel timber frame system including Hybris insulation offering excellent thermal efficiency to the homes.

“

The build started on time, ran smoothly and continuously and completed on schedule. That is not something that happens every day in the building industry! Well done Vision.

Mr Dewey

VISION DEVELOPMENT

0118 971 2181

info@vision-dsl.com . www.timber-frame-suppliers.co.uk . 4a Field Barn Farm . Beenham Hill . Reading . RG7 5LT

Do you have any news that you would like to share?

We’d love to hear from you editor@localbuzzmagazine.com

Your Local Buzz

50 th

50th Issue An niv er

Wash Common library building - public consultation It looks like the library in Wash Common could soon be re-opening, thanks to the work of the Friends of Wash Common Library and the support of Newbury Town Council. Following the closure of the library in 2017, a community group known as The Friends of Wash Common Library, was formed with the aim of re-opening the library and restoring this service for the people of Wash Common and surrounds.

West Berkshire District Council has invited Newbury Town Council to lease the Wash Common Library building at a nominal rent for 5 years so that The Friends group may use it for that purpose. It was agreed at a recent WBC Executive Committee to give a 5 year lease to the Town Council.

Cllr Adrian Edwards, Leader of the Council is delighted with the proposal saying, “As a Ward Member for Falkland I am very keen for the library service at Wash Common to re-open. It is a valuable resource for residents and I am pleased that the Town Council are able to work together with The Friends Group and West Berkshire Council to

The first phase of works is scheduled to take place over the following four working-day periods, with a number of additional line blocks required to complete the work.

don’t miss the next Issue. . .

8

in the stands 1st august

Thatcham Historical Society

Thatcham Fruit Flower Farm Many visit the Wyvale Garden Centre but few know the history of the area.

The consultation closes at midnight on 8 July 2018. enable this to happen. I commend the Friends group for their initiative and hard work and I can assure them of the Town Council’s support for the service. ” The Town Council would like to hear the views of the people of Newbury regarding the proposal to rent the Library Building at Wash Common.

Responses can also be made by email to: consultations@newbury.gov.uk, in writing to Newbury Town Council, Town Hall, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5AA or through our online consultation (from Wednesday 20 June 2018) at www. newbury.gov.uk.

Line closures - more dates announced GWR and Network Rail have confirmed more dates when a significant part of the line between Newbury and Reading will be closed. This is to facilitate electrification works, track renewal and ballast work.

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l Mon 16 July to Sun 5 August to be confirmed l

Tue 28 to Thu 30 August

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Mon 8 to Thu 11 October

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Mon 19 to Thu 22 November

For further travel advice and information on the work please visit GWR.com/Newbury2018 Twitter @GWRHelp

Miss Mary Peers and Miss Lily Hugh-Jones established, in c.1907, a nursery which became known as Henwick Fruit and Flower Farm. This was situated roughly where Wyvale Garden Centre now stands. This was a school for Lady gardeners and quickly became well know and successful. One student, Mabel Sowerby, went on to win several national awards and became a partner at the farm. For a period Lower Henwick Farm was used for student accommodation and later Old Henwick Cottage was also used for running the farm.

Over time though this became known as the French Gardens, largely due to the fact that the method for cultivating the plants was a French system. The gardens remained until c.1957. A mushroom farm replaced it until 1982 after which the present garden centre was built.

To find out more contact us via email enquiries@ thatchamhistoricalsociety. org.uk or visit our website thatchamhistoricalsociety.org.uk LOCAL BUZZ

Richard and Tan discussing the proposed Western Rail link with Jo Johnson, Minister for Transport.

935,000

Printed copies to date

A boost for business

785,000+

Unique Social Media Users

23,120,000+

I have recently joined with Slough MP Tan Dhesi to campaign for the proposal to build a new railway into Heathrow.

This Western Rail link is planned to run from the main line, at a point between Langley and Iver, into Heathrow, allowing passengers from the west of the country to travel into the airport without having to go via London Paddington.

It will mean journey times of around 26 minutes from Reading and only six minutes from Slough. It will help ease congestion on the already busy roads around Heathrow and reduce CO2 emissions, and will involve only 6 km of track with relatively few land or technical obstacles to overcome. There will be obvious benefits for businesses in West Berkshire which already has

Website Impressions

celebrating 50! a higher proportion of 21st century high-tech businesses than any other local authority in the country. Estimates say that it will generate a predicted £800 million of economic growth across the Thames Valley. Alongside the electrification of the main line, the advent of Crossrail and the provision of superfast broadband, this vital piece of infrastructure is another reason why West Berkshire will continue to be a great place to start and grow a business.

Rt Hon Richard Benyon MP for Newbury

Beautiful countryside development. Around 60% of the constituency lies in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and with proper planning, it can be protected as we meet our housing needs.

Every Thursday or Friday when I’m finally able to drive across from London after late night votes in the Commons, I am reminded that I am one of the luckiest Members of Parliament. High on the Hampshire downs, and in their folds, lie some of England’s most picturesque villages and towns; the people among its most creative and industrious.

One of the things that makes North West Hampshire such a great place to live is its wonderful countryside. It is vital then that the quality of the landscape is protected from unplanned and uncoordinated LOCAL BUZZ

So it was a pleasure early this month to join the North Hampshire branch of Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) for their meeting at Steventon, Jane Austen’s birthplace, to hear about their work in developing a strategy that retains and enhances the countryside’s distinctiveness. Planning is something that has to be done with people not to them and being in favour of proper planning and local democracy is not to be anti-building. We need to build the right kinds of houses in the right places and local people will always know more than distant planners. Well done to the Campaign for all their hard work and I look forward to working with them in the future.

police advice - lindsey’s top tip

Herbert Protocol What is the Herbert Protocol?

The Herbert Protocol initiative is named after George Herbert, a war veteran of the Normandy landings, who lived with dementia. It is a process to be used where there is a risk that a vulnerable person, particularly if they suffer from dementia, may go missing.

It consists of a form for recording key information which the police will require if the vulnerable person goes missing. Carers, family members and friends should complete part one of the form in advance, and obtain a recent photograph of the vulnerable person. In the event of the vulnerable person going missing, part two should be completed, and the form plus photograph handed to the police.

The form can be used for any vulnerable person not just those with dementia.

The form can be downloaded from various web-sites (including www.thamesvalley.police.uk) and can be completed by hand or electronically. A paper copy plus the photograph will need to be handed to the police officer who attends to take the missing person’s report.

Deputy Supt Lindsey Finch Local Policing Commander West Berkshire

Kit Malthouse MP Minister for Housing, Family Support & Child Maintainence,

North Hampshire 9

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The CLOTHES SHOP x2 personal styling sessions at The Clothes Shop When was The Clothes Shop founded?

A voucher for Taste of Summer menu at L’Ortolan

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b. 1885

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Delicious Indian Meal for two people at Indigo Bay How many restaurants does Indigo Bay have in Berkshire? a. 3

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What are the names of three Private Dining Rooms at L’Ortolan? a. The Glass Room, Wine Cellar, Champagne Room b. The Champagne Cellar, Wine Room, Glass House

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Who was the UK Prime Minister in 1940? a. Winston Churchill b. Neville Chamberlain c. Clement Attlee 11

7th July Crafty Workshop with Rock Painting 13th July St Michael’s Summer Day With fun & laughter from Van Dunk

14th July Basingstoke Disability Roll Fun & Games, Craft and Food

21st July Posh & Pecks Crafty emus with heaps of character 26th - 29th July

The Malls Annual ‘Punch & Judy Festival’ www.themalls.co.uk facebook.com/TheMallsShoppingCentre

What's on in July Summer Evenings at the Races Thur 5, Thur 12, Fri 20 & Thur 26 16:00 - 21:05pm The Racecourse, Newbury Our series of Summer evening race meetings is back! These evenings are perfect if you are new to racing and offer a relaxed and friendly environment for an after work social or a family night out.

Waterways Festival Sun 8 15:00 - 17:00pm Victoria Park, Newbury RG14 5AS Enjoy a spectacular display of colourful and decorated narrowboats on the towpath whilst Victoria Park will be filled with stalls, activities, and entertainment for all the family. Entry is free.

East Woodhay Silver Band Sun 15 15:00 - 17:00pm 7 - 20 Park Way, Newbury RG14 1DJ East Woodhay Silver Band will be playing at the Victoria Park Bandstand.

Newbury Jazz and Blues Outdoor Festival Sat 14 - 18:00 till 22:30 Sun 15 - 14:00 till 20:00 Newbury Market Place The outdoor family friendly festival takes place over two evenings this summer bringing together some of the most amazing talent that the genre has to offer and is free.

BIG WHEEL 26 Sun 22 9:00am Starting from St. Michael's Hospice, Basingstoke Enjoy a spectacular summer’s day cycling and taking in the views of the local picturesque villages and stunning Hampshire countryside to raise funds for St. Michael’s Hospice.

Choose to take part in a variety of routes, ranging from 5 - 65 miles.

FREE ONLINE! upload your events

localbuzzmagazine.com WHAT'S ON

Some details may be subject to change so please check before you book

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KATE HUMBLE A NEW LIFE IN THE COUNTRY

The Buzz have played a big role in the development of my business and the help that I have received from the team has been fantastic. They really listen to you and work out what’s best for you and how best to proceed plus I’m getting results from the work that they have done for me.

I have been so impressed with the artwork that they have designed for me that I decided to have all my artwork created by them as their designs were far more superior than what other competitors could offer me.

Director . Motech Autocentres

“

After working with Buzz for a few years and seeing the magazine grow, we have remained impressed with the quality of service, product and strength of its local appeal. Additionally to their magazine, we have been pleased with quality of their website and the engaging articles within. We sincerely congratulate Buzz on their 50th issue anniversary.

Marketing Manager David Wilson Homes

14

PROPERTY BOOST OR BUST?

RURAL Retreats

Delicious

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TWO NIGHT STAY AND BUBBLY AT THE ELCOT PARK

IS BACK AND EVEN BETTER

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GO WEST 80s duo celebrate new album and UK tour

CHRIS TARRANT

localbuzzmagazine.com

A REMARKABLE MAN

localbuzzmagazine.com

Where we began In 2010, Local Buzz, an A5 magazine flooded the local market with 45,000 copies printed every quarter. Due to demand, the production has reached 120,000 copies per annum with 30 stands across West Berkshire and North Hampshire as well as door-to-door distribution.

The purpose of Local Buzz is to bring local businesses and the community together.

The brand is now strongly recognised locally as well as further afield. Founded

by Jackie Osborne, the business has grown from strength to strength and it has reached its initial goal by going monthly in 2017.

Jackie says “My aim was to combine channels that would deliver results and while print and social media may compete for anyone’s marketing budget, they don’t have to compete for their customers.

In fact, using them together can make your marketing more effective. Using a combination of traditional and digital marketing techniques is the most effective method of marketing, far more useful than using either on its own; this is what we do at Local Buzz.”

That sense of purpose and mission has always been part of Local Buzz culture.

In today’s market, dealing with too many suppliers can be very confusing and Local

Buzz is seen by many of their customers as “their marketing department”!

Local Buzz sets new standards for local publications by combining all the qualities and features you would expect from a national magazine into a small and beautiful package. With vibrant and professional design, high quality editorial and glossy print, Local Buzz has attracted interviews with national and international celebrities.

“

Local Buzz Magazine have been fantastic in supporting the Regency Park Hotel.

The team are friendly and approachable and go over and above to ensure that our needs are met. They are always on hand to help and are full of ideas and hints which is a great support for us.

Business Development Manager Regency Park Hotel

014

2015

BEST COMMUNITY MAGAZINE 2013

£££

WITH REFERRALS

RY BERRY localbuzzmagazine.com

ating 50!

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Lest we

Issue Celebration

4th July – Independence Day charity BBQ & music 7th July – The SUMMER STREET PARTY 14th July – Parkway En Provence 21st July – Charity Penalty Shoot-Out 28th July – Proms at Parkway 4th August – Elvis is in the Building 4th August – Masha & The Bear visit

and more

50th Issue An niv er

all your support How do you drive traffic to your social media sites? Often, it’s with print. In today’s tech-driven world, not everyone uses social media or uses it on a regular basis. For that reason, Local Buzz has created a campaign called BuzzOnline which ensures customers are reaching the largest audience as possible.

Say it again . . . and again Local Buzz will carry on reinforcing the message that through multiple channels, your brand awareness, engagement and response rates are heightened. The combination of print and social media, along with other traditional and digital media, is more effective than any single channel alone.

The future

With a view of always “thinking outside the box”, Local Buzz is currently working on a new engaging opportunity that all businesses in West Berkshire and North Hampshire will benefit from and as Jackie says “my passion is to find solutions and opportunities for growth in the local community”. And this is the next step, so keep following their social media for updates.

“

We have been working with Local Buzz Magazine since last year, and throughout that time they have been professional with that personal touch.

Through all the work we have created together, they have listened and supported us to bring our business to the local people. We wish all the best to Local Buzz magazine, congratulations on your 50th celebration!

Marketing & COMIN Manager Ikea

“

I find it brilliant working with Jackie and her team. They are enthusiastic, positive, creative and very responsive.

They have helped us to have more exposure through the magazine advertisement and incredibly increased our reach through our social media partnership. Look no further for a media partner. I highly recommend working with them.

Head of Marketing & Admissions Padworth College

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Fabulous

www.shopatparkway.com

Print drives traffic to social media – BuzzOnline?

JULY 2018 localbuzzmagazine.com

4th July - 4th August

The Charities we have supported

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50th!

We have just celebrated our 50th Anniversary, providing a very much needed service for our senior citizens. Here is to the next 50 years of service from the Fair Close Centre to future senior citizens.

Hall Hire

Fair Close Centre

Available at reasonable prices.

A Friendly Place

We are an independent charity and receive no external funding. The Charity is set up to encourage, promote and organise direct services appropriate to the needs of older people.

We are open Monday to Friday and run a Coffee Morning, Luncheon Club and daily activities each day. Our daily activities include flower arranging, knit & natter, bingo, whist and crafts.

Many of our members live on their own, so attending the centre is a very good way of elevating loneliness. They can come in and meet new friends, have their meal with someone instead of on their own, and interaction with others is so very important.

We also run a Meal’s on Wheels service for our clients in the community who cannot attend the centre. This is a vital service to our clients where majority are quite isolated and cannot get

Here at Fair Close Centre we provide a friendly place for our senior citizens of West Berkshire to meet, eat and socialise. out, so having one of our valuable volunteer drivers visit them daily to deliver a hot dinner and pudding, also having that contact with a smile and conversation which will enhance their day. We also provide frozen meals for weekends and bank holidays.

We have volunteer drivers who run this service for us of which we could not provide without them. We are always looking for volunteers drivers to spare a couple of hours during the day to deliver these very important meals to our clients.

We also have our own Mini Bus that can collect and take home door to door service, our own hairdressers and charity shop.

Daily Meal's on Wheels delivered to your door by our valuable volunteer drivers.

We have other services which include welfare advice from our Welfare Officer and chiropody services.

During the year we organise numerous day trips and a couple of holidays that our members can book and attend, as well as various afternoon functions which include afternoon teas with entertainment.

If you would like to come and see us to see if any of our services are for you please contact us here at Fair Close Centre 01635 40488/41294 or email fc-ageconcern@btconnect.com or www.fairclosecentre.org 17

At Your Equity Release Options we can suggest the plan most suited to your needs by researching all the products in the market. . . we offer a no-obligation service for our clients. . .

Cash poor and asset rich?

Consider unlocking the wealth in your home If you are one of the countless homeowners struggling to make ends meet as you approach retirement, or are wondering how to repay your interest only mortgage don’t worry – you are not alone. Many people suffer from being “cash poor” and equity rich. This means that all your money is tied up in your house, unable to help you with bills and living expenses.

In the first half of 2017 ÂŁ305,810,476 was paid out in

What is Equity Release?

Equity release refers to a range of products letting you access the equity (cash) tied up in your home if you are over the age of 55.

You can take the money you release as a lump sum or in several smaller amounts or as a combination of both.

Equity Release

Mortgages*

High living expenses and low pensions can create an uncomfortable living situation for many UK families.

However, with a Lifetime Mortgage you could discover a happier and more comfortable lifestyle.

There are options to consider of paying some or all of the interest on the mortgage, or rolling it up into the loan.

Ensure you understand the implications of both and which will be the most appropriate for your circumstances.

At Your Equity Release Options, we can suggest the plan most suited to your needs by researching all the products in the market. We offer a no obligation Retirement Mortgage Review, at no cost to you.

The actual loan amount potentially available to you will depend on your circumstances, property valuation and status.

I do encourage family members or a trusted friend to be present in meetings, as sometimes they will have questions different to yours which may be beneficial. Having family members present also allows you to fully discus the benefits to you of taking out a lifetime mortgage,and also the effects on inheritance which will be available to your beneficiaries on your death.

You can connect with us face-to-face or over the phone for services that include:

How will you use your lifetime mortgage?

The great thing about a Lifetime Mortgage is that the money you receive can be used however you like, maybe : l

Repay your interest only mortgage

l

Debt consolidation

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Home Improvements

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Holiday of a lifetime

The more you know about how your Lifetime Mortgage works, the more confident you should be accessing the capital inside your home.

You can also pay for long-term care in your home, access private medical treatment, purchase a new car, or even treat your children and grand-children.

The choice is completely up to you.

However, because a Lifetime Mortgage is a complex financial product, it is important to make sure that you get the right financial advice before you begin your application. *

Key Retirement Stats - 20th June 2018

l

In-depth and easy-to-follow explanations of Lifetime Mortgages and whether they are appropriate to your situation. l

A personal and bespoke recommendation made according to your specific circumstances. l

Insights into the home equity products that are most suitable for your needs.

l Set up and on-going management of the mortgage.

Carol Brown

Senior Mortgage Consultant

Call us today on

01635 550 179 www.yourequityreleaseoptions.co.uk

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Take your dinner party to new heights Offer available from the 01/07/18 to 31/07/18.

Only at IKEA Reading. Terms and conditions apply

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You don’t need to be a master chef to impress your guests. Whether homemade or delivered, take your feast up a notch and say Hooray! to The Wonderful Everyday.

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FREAKSHAKES WAFFLES CREPES COFFEE PLATTERS MILKSHAKES ICE CREAM

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Open : Tues - Sat 11.00 - 17.00 Sun 11.00 - 16.00

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01635 580911

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Have your Birthday Party with us!

Shop and Taproom Opening Hours Shop Open Daily: 10am to 6pm Taproom Open Daily: 10am to 6pm, Wed - Sat until 11pm Kitchen Open: Tues - Sun 12pm to 3pm, Wed - Sat 6pm to 9pm Phone: 01635 767090 Email: info@wbbrew.co.uk wbbtaproom

Nobody can offer Indian food like we can!

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Available for private tours Please call 01635 767090 or Email: taproomandkitchen@wbbrew.co.uk

Savour a wide variety of meals with distinctive flavour and aroma served by friendly staff.

Indigo Bay Restaurant specialises in traditional tandoori and Indian curries.

Take advantage of our “Family of 4 Offer” - see the back of Local Buzz and call us to book your table.

22

01635 35000 54-55 Bartholomew St Newbury RG14 5QA www.indigobayrestaurant.co.uk

West Berkshire Brewery Shop, Taproom & Kitchen.

The Old Dairy, Yattendon, Berkshire, RG18 0XT

Six spectacular courses each in this summer tasting menu Just £99 for two Six Course Dinner for two £99 Tuesday - Thursday Six Course Lunch for two £99 Tuesday - Saturday Available with a matching wine flight £45 per person for four glasses.

TO BOOK

01189 888 500 www.lortolan.com

Max 6 per booking. A discretionary service charge of 12.5% will be added to your bill.

We are pleased to accommodate any dietary requirements.

This offer is running from 3rd July until 29th September 2018.

Welcome to the

Halfway Inn it's Smokin’!

Outside Dining

Try our delicious smoked meat, fish and homemade sausages cooked outside on our newly arrived smokers.

GRILL AND SMOKE . FAVOURITE DISHES FRESHLY PREPARED FOOD . QUALITY LOCAL PRODUCE . SEASONAL MENU VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN OPTIONS . OUTDOOR DINING OVERLOOKING GARDEN

Enjoy the cosy atmosphere at The Halfway Inn. Our friendly and attentive staff go out of their way to make customers comfortable, serving traditional English and Polish food.

Our food is prepared fresh every day using the highest quality local produce and the wonderful team in the kitchen make everything from scratch. The menus are based around seasonal dishes and specials change regularly depending on what is available.

The Halfway Inn Bath Road . Newbury . Berkshire . RG20 8NR

24

01488 608 115

www.thehalfway-inn.co.uk halfwayinn-newbury.co.uk Opening Hours

Mon - Sat Lunch 12pm - 14.30pm Evening 6.30pm - 11.00pm Sun 12pm - 15.00pm

Cheese & Pineapple Party favourite was cheese and pineapple on cocktail sticks. The art was making the hedgehog!

Crisps Crisps were popular in the sixties.

Alongside ready salted and salt and vinegar, Golden Wonder launched cheese and onion in 1962, smoky bacon in 1964, roast chicken in 1967 and beef and onion in 1969.

Hawaii produces about 1/3 of all pineapples in the world.

Prawn Cocktail The starter of the 1960's and served in a glass! The true sauce is principally mayonnaise, tomato ketchup and a couple of shakes of Tabasco.

Jelly Desserts Setting food in jelly was very popular, even chopped vegetables and eggs!

However canned fruit and pineapple rings were a the normal choice and of course topped off with The early recipes squirtly cream!

Vol au vents

In Belgium, it is a common main dish found on the menus of most restaurants. Normally filled with a combination of chicken, mushrooms, and small meatballs, served with either mashed potatoes or fries.

Remember our favourite pastry finger food? Fillings were savoury and made with a thick cream based sauce to which other ingredients such as poultry, fish, meat and vegetables are added.

Black Forest Gateau Looking for a show stopper? This delicious and rich dessert was a must have on the table.

The dessert is not directly named after the Black Forest mountain range in south-western Germany but from the speciality liquor of that region, known as Schwarzwälder Kirsch(wasser) and distilled from tart cherries.

60's Party Food

for fruit upside down cakes were made in cast iron skillets on top of the stove.

Everyone enjoys a plate of nostaglia, especially served with a generous helping of Angel Delight!

So if you are planning a 60's party don't forget these family favourites. . .

Pineapple upside-down cake The cake was created because several other convenience items were developed that gave the housewife time to make a cake pretty as well as delicious.

The idea of cooking a cake upside down, is an old technique that started centuries ago when cakes were cooked in cast iron skillets. It was easy for cook to add fruit and sugar in the bottom of the pan and a simple cake batter on top and put it over the fire to cook.

Then flipping it over onto a plate was a natural way to show the pretty fruit and let it run into the cake as well. The pineapple ring was the perfect choice.

25

30% OFF

with this voucher valid until 22nd July 2018

Tel: 01635 38000

www.chequershotelnewbury.co.uk The Chequers Hotel, 6 – 8 Oxford Street, Newbury Berkshire RG14 1JB

Summertime, and the livin’ is easy!

e n i F e h T e

n i V

Made even better with these perfect wines!

Summer is really here, and we will all be enjoying parties and get-togethers aplenty.

The warm weather will be the perfect time to get together with friends and family, to enjoy a few nibbles and food. If you want to really impress your guests this summer, then why not match some very different and special wines with your canapes and nibbles. We have chosen two wines that most people wouldn’t think of as premium matches with food, but trust me – they really work!

Riesling Generally, from either Germany or the Alsace region of France, Riesling is in my opinion, a very understated white wine. It is normally a dry and aromatic wine with beautiful fruity

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and floral notes. Flavours of green apple, grape and a hint of citrus make it a perfect wine to serve with summer canapes, particularly soft cheese or seafood-based foods. And interestingly, Riesling is a white wine that can actually be aged!

Try a Domdechant Werner Hockheimer Riesling Classic 2016. At 12.5% you won’t be disappointed.

Barbera Our second recommendation on the summer list is from none other than our favourite place for wine – Italy! Barbera, from the Piedmont region of Italy in the north west, is a light red wine variety with light to medium tannins and high acidity. It typically has aromas of red fruit and black pepper. Barbera is often aged in oak to give it additional flavours of toast, vanilla and sweet spice which makes it a perfect wine to be served with roasted vegetable and hard cheese canapes.

Try a Bric di Bersan Barbera 2016 at 13% or Manera Barbera 2016 at 12.5% which are a bit lighter

Colucci’s Prosecco will help get your next party started with panache!

in alcohol. Some Barbera can be up to 14% which give a very full body – and a real kick!

Of course, there is always the go to wine for your parties – Colucci’s Prosecco. This crisp, citrusy sparkling wine is ideal for waking up the taste buds, for just sipping or with a variety of salty or tart canapes. I love to serve it with crushed black pepper and sea salted crisps. Colucci’s Prosecco will help get your next party started with panache!

www.coluccis.co.uk

First mentioned in print in 1893, it is commonly believed to originate from Eton College and is served at the annual cricket match against the pupils of Harrow School.

Eton Mess Truly Scrumptious!

Eton mess is so simple, made with broken meringues, strawberries and cream – the best bits of summer combined into one easy dessert!

Ingredients

6 ready-made meringues 570ml double cream 450g strawberries, washed and hulled 75 ml port, kirsch or Cointreau

Serves 6 . Prep time: 10 mins

Method

1. Cut the strawberries in half or into thick slices if they’re big. Place in a bowl with the port, kirsch or Cointreau if using, cover and chill for 2-3 hrs.

2. Whip the cream until it forms soft peaks, then fold in the berries and juices.

3. Crush the meringues and fold into the strawberry and cream mixture.

4. Spoon the Eton mess into individual dishes and decorate with extra strawberries.

Delicious

Summer Favourites Potato Salad

Serves 4

A beautiful version of this classic Ingredients

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes until tender.

1/2 tsp Dijon mustard

2. While the potatoes are boiling place the Dijon mustard and the red wine vinegar into a bowl and whisk them together, then whisk in the oils.

1 tbsp red wine vinegar 2 tbsp vegetable oil

3. When the potatoes are cooked cut the smaller ones in half and the larger ones into quarters. Pour over the dressing, mix well and leave to cool.

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

115g good quality mayonnaise 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard

Small bunch chives - finely chopped Small bunch mint - finely chopped

4. Mix the remaining ingredients with the mayonnaise but reserve a few of the herbs for garnish.

5. When the potatoes are cool, drain off any surplus vinegar dressing then toss them in the mayonnaise.

6. Serve garnished with the reserved herbs.

28

Cooking time: 15 mins plus cooling time

Method

600g waxy potatoes

3 spring onions - sliced thinly

Prep time: 15 mins

Let’s Celebrate!

Book your next celebration at The Regency Park Hotel and receive 10% off of the room hire cost

TO BOOK please contact our events and quote RB10

With function spaces able to hold up to 200 guests, 108 onsite bedrooms and a team dedicated to ensuring your every wish is met, Regency Park is the perfect venue for your next celebration.

Regency Park Hotel Bowling Green Road . Thatcham . Berkshire . RG18 3RP 01635 588707 . events@regencyparkhotel.co.uk . www.regencyparkhotel.co.uk Discount valid on bookings made throughout July and August. Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability.

‘An Aladdin’s Cave’ people are often amazed at the wide range of clothes available.

. . .an alternative to the ‘High Street Multiples’.

ClassicallyStylish Tucked away in Pound Street Newbury, just off Bartholomew Street is one of Newbury best kept secrets classically stylish ladies’ boutique opened in 1985, The Clothes Shop.

Many of their original customers, their children and grandchildren remain loyal and even when they move out of the area will travel back to Newbury to check on the new seasons stock and for the help and personal service the shop provides.

Over the years they realized ladies wanted an alternative to the “High Street Multiples”. This growing need for individuality without the large price tag has meant continual sourcing of exciting and reliable labels.

Ann and Debra, who own the shop, because of their expertise, instantly know what will suit an individual’s shape and colouring and can recommend styles and colours customers might not have tried before.

But look fabulous when on. They know all their suppliers personally and trust the quality of their garments and only buy clothes that are properly made from good quality fabrics.

Ann and Debra put down their success to retraining the loyalty of their customers and the ability to attract new ones.

Although small, this shop can be likened to “An Aladdin’s Cave”. People are often amazed at the wide range of clothes available. Anything from a pair of wellfitting jeans to a special occasion outfit for a wedding or races etc. They are also renowned for their extensive range of fabulous hats with approx. 900 always in stock in a myriad of styles and colours.

The CLOTHES SHOP Of Newbury - Est 1985

01635 47832

12 Pound Street, Newbury RG14 6AA . Opening hours : 9.15am – 5pm (Tues to Sat) . www.theclothesshopnewbury.co.uk

Emily Print Cocoon Tee

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£69.00 Indigo Denim Western Jacket

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Darby Chalk Biker Jean

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Jade Print Cami

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£69.00 Penelope Nude Ring Clutch Bag

£99.00 31

Lego

Teenagers

was seen at the Brighton Toy Fair for the first time in 1960 and the blocks took Britain by storm, guess what was on every childs Christmas list.

By the 1960s, the first teenage generation free from conscription emerged in Britain. Young people were finally given a voice and freedom to do what they wanted.

The parents of the Sixties teenage generation had spent their youth fighting for their lives in the Second World War and wanted their own children to enjoy their youth and be able to have more fun and freedom.

By the early 1960s, teenagers were already significantly different to those of a decade ago.

Sport At the summer Olympics in Rome, Cassius Clay – who later restyled himself Mohammad Ali – won gold in boxing.

Real Madrid won the European Cup Final 7-3 in front of a crowd of 135,000 at Glasgow’s Hampden Park.

Graham Hill won the Formula One World Championship in 1962.

Technology Technological advancements of the 1960s drastically changed how people spent their leisure time.

The increase in employment in factories and increase in money allowed people to spend more on leisure activities. Colour television and pocket transistor radios allowed people to spend their free time listening to music and watching TV. Every teenager owned a transistor radio allowing them to listen to pop music on the move. The microwave oven shortened the amount of time women spent in the kitchen, further allowing them more freedom and time to enjoy themselves.

32

In Brief 1960 Population of Britain was about 53 million The world's population was just over 3 billion.

Music One of the biggest, defining aspects of the 1960s was music. Although rock and roll began having an effect on Britain in the 1950s, it wasn’t until the early Sixties and the emergence of ‘British Invasion’ groups like The Beatles, that music truly began its revolutionary changes.

In 1967 The Beatles Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band became the turning point in music and inspired other musicians, such as The Beach Boys and The Rolling Stones, to experiment with new sounds and develop innovative pieces of music.

Rock swept the country and in 1964, Greater London could claim the Rolling Stones, the Yardbirds, the Who and the Kinks.

1962 The audio cassette was invented and

by Christmas many carol singers had pre recorded their songs onto a cassette tape.

1964 BBC2 went on air in and was the first channel to have colour in 1967.

1966 One year footy fans won’t forget as England won the football World Cup!

1969 On 2nd March 1969, Concorde, the world’s first supersonic passenger jet made its maiden voyage from Toulouse.

How much!

The average house price was £2,530 Loaf of bread 5p A season ticket to see Manchester United cost £8.50.

AGO

Celebrating our 50th issue, we thought it would be fun to look back to 50 years ago.

If the Fifties were in black and white, then the Sixties were in Technicolor. The ‘Swinging Sixties’ remain the defining decade.

YEARS AGO

In just ten short years, London had transformed from the bleak, conservative city, only just beginning to forget the troubles of the Second World War, into the capital of the world.

Full of freedom, hope and promise, it was the centre of all excitement.

Swingin’

60

Mary Quant became famous for popularising the mini skirt which became the epitome of 1960s fashion.

SwinginFashion ’

60

Feminism Feminism began to become a more influential ideology as more jobs became available to young women in the Sixties.

This allowed them to move away from home and become more independent. The contraceptive pill became legalised for all women in 1967 and gave them the opportunity to broaden their hopes and dreams far beyond motherhood and marriage.

The Women’s Liberty movement was in its infancy when in 1968 at a Ford factory in Dagenham, 850 women went on strike, arguing for equal pay with their male co-workers. This action resulted in the passing of the Equal Pay Act of 1970. Furthermore, women were becoming increasingly involved in politics. In 1968, Barbara Castle became the first and only woman to be appointed First Secretary of State.

Fashion in the decade mirrored many of the social changes of the Sixties. Mary Quant became famous for popularising the mini skirt which became the epitome of 1960s fashion. The mini was designed to be free and liberating for women, allowing them to “run and jump”. Her fashion designs used simple geometric shapes and colours which gave women a new kind of femininity.

Women were free to wear more playful, youthful clothes that would have seemed outrageous ten years before. By the late Sixties, psychedelic prints and vibrant colours began appearing on clothes as the hippie movement gathered pace.

barnes coaches

NEW 2018-19 UK & European Holiday Brochure out now!

Our new brochure covers the remainder of 2018 with a selection of new Turkey & Tinsel Breaks as well as Christmas holidays, New Year and into early 2019. It’s packed full of great new ideas for holidays, plus of course plenty of the old favourites!

order your free copy today by contacting the barnes travel team!

01793 821303 www.barnescoaches.co.uk Unit E, Woodside Road, South Marston Park, Swindon, SN3 4AQ

It can seem like just one more extra cost you could do without, but travel without it and you could be in trouble.

Understanding Travel Insurance Crippling costs You risk footing a very large bill should you need healthcare or have your baggage lost or stolen. Something as simple as a stomach bug in California, which requires treatment and later flights home, could cost in the tens of thousands of pounds. A broken hip in a European destination could lead to a bill of £15,000

Don't forget If you are planning any sports or other activities, mention it. Skiing and extreme sports are obvious examples, but scuba diving and other activities you may not think of as “extreme” may still need extra cover. Know how much it would cost to replace baggage, from suitcases to clothes, to jewellery, including wedding rings.

Why it matters where you are going EU countries tend to be less expensive while Canada, the US and the Caribbean are much more so due to the incredibly high cost of medical care in those regions.

Declare pre-existing conditions Certain medical conditions will add to the cost of your insurance, because insurance is about risk and certain ailments make it more likely that you might require medical attention. It may

be worth looking at insurers which specialise in providing this type of insurance.

Tell them everything Even if it feels like you are hiking up the cost of your insurance policy. You don't want your insurance to be invalid if you need to make a claim.

Read!

When you get your policy, make sure you read the full terms and conditions and the medical declaration carefully, so you understand exactly what you’re covered for.

EU countries tend to be less expensive while Canada, the US and the Caribbean are much more so due to the incredibly high cost of medical care in those regions.

Many people hit the gym or pound the pavement to improve cardiovascular health, build muscle and an end up with an amazing body, but working out has other benefits too.

Exercising boost brain function Scientists have pondered how exercising can boost brain function. Regardless of age or fitness, studies show that making time for exercise provides some serious mental benefits. Working out can benefit mental health, relationships and lead to a healthier and happier life overall.

Here are some benefits:

suffering from depression or anxiety pencil in plenty of gym time.

1

For an extra boost of self-love, take that workout outside as exercising outdoors can increase self-esteem even more. Find an outdoor workout that fits your style, whether it’s rock-climbing,

Reduce stress

Rough day at the office? Take a walk or head to the gym for a quick workout. One of the most common mental benefits of exercise is stress relief. Working up a sweat can help manage physical and mental stress.

Exercise also increases concentrations of norepinephrine, a chemical that can moderate the brain’s response to stress.

2

Boost happy chemicals

Exercise releases endorphins, which create feelings of happiness and euphoria. Studies have shown that exercise can even alleviate symptoms among the clinically depressed. For this reason, doctors recommend that people 36

3

Improve self-confidence

On a very basic level, physical fitness can boost self-esteem and improve positive self-image. Regardless of weight, size, gender or age, exercise can quickly elevate a person's perception of his or her attractiveness, that is, self-worth.

4

Enjoy the great outdoors

hiking, renting a canoe or just taking a jog in the park. Plus, all that Vitamin D acquired from soaking up the sun can lessen the likelihood of experiencing depressive symptoms.

5

Prevent cognitive decline

It is unpleasant, but it’s true - as we get older, our brains get a little. . . hazy. As aging and degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s kill off brain cells, the noggin shrinks, losing many important brain functions in the process.

While exercise and a healthy diet can’t “cure” Alzheimer’s, they can help shore up the brain against cognitive decline that begins after age 45. Working out, especially between age 25 and 45, boosts the chemicals in the brain that support and prevent degeneration of the hippocampus, an important part of the brain for memory and learning.

6

Alleviate anxiety

The warm and fuzzy chemicals that are released during and after exercise can help people with anxiety disorders calm down. Hopping on the track or treadmill for some moderateto-high intensity aerobic exercise can reduce anxiety sensitivity.

Come and experience

NORTHCROFT LEISURE CENTRE

STUDENTS Are you back for the Summer?

Ask us about our

FLEXI MEMBERSHIPS

01635 31199

leisurecentre.com northcroft@legacyleisure.org.uk Terms and conditions apply. A valid student identification card will be required.

Cardiovascular disease causes 26% of all deaths in the UK; that's over 150,000 deaths each year – an average of 420 people each day or one death every three minutes.

Those are the scary statistics but what can you do to improve the health of your heart?

Here are the top tips according to leading cardiologists.

9

Walk 30 minutes every day, no matter what!

A half hour walk every day decreases an individual’s chances of a heart attack by 30%. If you think you’ll skip days find a walking buddy and hold each other accountable.

Find out your blood pressure and take steps to bring it down Your blood pressure may be a more important factor than your cholesterol!

If the doctor prescribes medication take 38

it, but you can also take steps to lower it yourself and maybe reduce the need for medication.

The best ways are to exercise and lose some belly fat. Individuals with high levels of fat in the abdominal cavity (belly fat) and around their abdominal organs are more likely to develop high blood pressure because this fat interferes with the function of the kidneys, which regulate the blood pressure.

Know what your HDL number is and then do what you can to raise it to 1.3 mmol/l In women especially it seems that a higher HDL (good cholesterol) number

is more important than a low LDL (bad cholesterol) number. Eat about 25g of raw, fresh, unsalted nuts per day – especially walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, pistachios and almonds. Nuts are packed with omega 3 oils, raise levels of HDL good cholesterol, decrease inflammation and have a good effect on the heart. Healthy fats such as olive or rapeseed oil have a positive effect too, and the really good news is that an alcoholic drink per day also works in your favour!

Eat a good quality tomato pasta sauce!

Simple tomato pasta sauce is loaded with potassium which aids lowering of blood pressure.

Blueberries

can help heart health, bone strength, skin health, blood pressure, diabetes management and mental health.

One cup of blueberries provides 24 percent of a person recommended daily allowance of vitamin C.

Healthier Heart Floss!

Most people don’t know that your oral health has an effect on arterial health so make sure those pearly whites stay clean and flossed.

Limit saturated fat and avoid trans fats Try to keep saturated fat below 20g per day. Both saturated fat and trans fats (found in many processed foods) lead to inflammation of the arteries.

Read labels and avoid foods which list sugar as one of the first five ingredients In particular don’t be fooled by foods which claim to be ‘low fat’ because often

they contain extra sugar instead. Healthy fats such as olive oil are better than empty sugar calories.

Drink wine But not too much! It’s a slightly bizarre (but consistent scientific truth) that teetotal folk have a higher risk of heart disease than those who drink in moderation.

But a glass of red wine occasionally is very different to

binge drinking once a week so be careful with this tip.

Eat a rainbow of fruit and veg Five to nine servings a day will help to keep your heart in tip-top condition. It may sound a lot but if you add chopped veg to pie fillings and casseroles and eat fruit at breakfast and salad stuff for snacks it all adds up.

39

Stretch Benefits In an attempt to prevent injury, most of us stretch before exercise and some (though not as many) stretch afterwards. But if we’re doing fairly steady activities (jogging, cycling or walking) then while stretching will improve our flexibility there is not much evidence it will prevent muscle injury.

In these cases the advice is to warm up with five minutes of light, gradual exercise instead. The reason for this is that it is important to increase the blood flow to the muscles and heart steadily, sudden changes will cause muscles to fatigue more quickly.

Stretching is more effective if you’re doing the type of exercise where you land constantly and forcefully on your feet, or stop and start quickly (sprinting, tennis, weight-lifting, or competitive team

Mel Harrison

Parent pains?

As if pregnancy and labour isn’t enough of a physical challenge, baby arrives with their extra luggage and heavy car seats and they steal your sleep and me time, no wonder new mums are in pain! These tips can help beat the pains of parenthood:

1. FEEDING : Sit in a supportive chair and use pillows to improve your posture.

2. LIFTING : Bend your knees NOT your back.

3. NAPPY CHANGING : Use a changing table or place the mat on top of a chest of drawers. You may need to adapt your station, when baby is on the move!

4. CARRYING : Use a sling that holds baby centrally across your front. A sling with a hip belt helps distribute the weight. No sling? Alternate the side you carry them on to avoid strain patterns surfacing.

5. SLEEP : Ha, what’s that? Nap when you can, as we heal when we sleep!

6. COT : A cot with adjustable heights or dropdown sides, saves you bending further than needed.

7. EXERCISE : Walking, swimming or gentle post-natal yoga or pilates are great for strengthening your core muscles. Try a DVD if you can’t make a class. sports like football). The more flexible the muscles are the more impact they’ll be able to sustain.

But everyone benefits from stretching after a workout.

During exercise lactic acid builds up in your muscles.

This can lead to soreness and fatigue. Stretching after a workout helps to eliminate the lactic acid and restore the muscle to its relaxed state, preventing the fatigue.

. . . it is important to increase the blood flow to the muscles and heart steadily, sudden changes will cause muscles to fatigue more quickly.

40

8. MEDICATE : Speak to your GP as some pain relief is safe to take while breast-feeding.

9. ASK FOR HELP : You’ve just given birth!

I can help too - Osteopathy can relieve muscle and joint restrictions if these tips don’t work.

07727 666312 www.melharrisonosteopath.co.uk melharrison156@yahoo.com ASK MEL - LOCAL BUZZ OSTEOPATHY EXPERT

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How to teach your kids about money According to a survey by M&G investments, 83% of parents recognise the value of teaching their children about money management, however, one in six do not feel confident enough to do it themselves.

So, how do you start to teach your children good money habits if you’re not 100% confident with your own? We’ve listed four top-tips to help get you started: Start at an early age: Research by the government’s Money Advice Service and behavioural experts at Cambridge University suggested that adult money habits are typically set by the age of seven as this is when children fully grasp the value of money. With this in mind, it’s better to start basic education before then. We’re not suggesting you teach your child the inner workings of the stock market, but simple activities such as counting money and actively encouraging the saving of any pocket money or a gifted cash sum will start to build awareness of just how important a few pennies can be.

Make it relevant: Weave financial education throughout your everyday activities so your child can start to see the role money can play in their daily lives – whether that is spending today or saving for tomorrow. For instance, when you next visit the local corner shop for a pint of milk and a loaf of bread, involve your child in the payment process. Let them hand over the cash and help count the change given back.

Your local bank or building society may have a young persons’ education scheme they could join. Take our Junior Newbury Building Society programme (JNBS) as an example. We work with schools in Berkshire, Hampshire and Oxfordshire to help children seven and older understand the importance of saving. The initiative encourages positive, healthy discussion about money as children open their own ‘branch’ within their school and act as ‘cashiers’ responsible for ensuring student payments are correctly collected and calculated. BBC’s online education hub Bitesize also has free, cooperative resources about financial decision making for children aged five to 11.

If you would like to talk to one of our qualified savings advisers about which of our savings accounts would be right for you or your child, pop into your local Newbury Building Society or pick up the phone to arrange an appointment.

Visit our Newbury branch 105b Northbrook Street, Newbury, RG14 1AA, call us on 01635 522588 or email newbury@newbury.co.uk.

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Another example is to give them pocket money and then help analyse and learn from off-the-cuff spending. For example, if they blow their cash on a Barbie and do not have enough left for the latest Disney DVD, they will learn first-hand that money, unfortunately, does not grow on trees.

Be a good example: Teaching good financial habits starts with you. Children tend to adopt behaviours from their parents or guardians, so make sure you’re setting a healthy example at home. This is important as financial education isn’t the sole responsibility of your child’s school. Although financial education in the classroom is important, it’s also up to you to encourage good money management outside of the school gates. You may find it also motivates you to straighten out your finances and improve your relationship with money.

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Use tools available to you: Whether it’s free programmes on the internet or extracurricular activities, there are lots of different ways to encourage your child to interact with money and develop a good savings habit early on.

Newbury Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register number 206077). 7092

Newbury Building Society

Not just another nursing home Are you a Registered Nurse, Care Assistant, Chef, Catering Assistant or Housekeeper? No matter what role you undertake; to the people who live in our services you are an extension of their family, their friend, their confidante, their reassurance, their entertainment and most importantly the enabler of their independence and choice.

Why work for us?

Brendoncare is a Charity, our ‘Care for Life’ promise means that no-one will have to leave their Brendoncare home if their financial situation changes. We do not pay profits to shareholders and any surpluses are invested back into improving services and delivering our ‘Care for Life’ promise.

Our Staff recommend us. In our recent staff survey, 95% of staff agreed that they were proud to work for Brendoncare 89% of staff said they were very likely or quite likely to recommend Brendoncare as a place to work. We invest heavily in staff training and believe in supporting our staff by providing access to an Employee Assistance Scheme offering advice and access to counselling.

We’re looking for people to join our Brendoncare family in Marlborough, Alton and Winchester. We offer competitive rates of pay and a commitment to further training and development. if you would like to find out more, or if you wish to apply, please email careers@brendoncare.org.uk, telephone 01962 857480 or visit www.brendoncare.org/work-for-us KiNdNess

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If you have made pension contributions into multiple pension pots, then you will need to contact each fund separately for a statement.

Happy Re There are many things to consider as you approach retirement. It is good to start by reviewing your finances to ensure your future income will allow you to enjoy the lifestyle you want.

You should also consider how you’ll stay active and social after you leave work.

It is never too early to start thinking about your retirement. Use Money Advice Service's pension calculator to help you work out how much money you 44

will need in retirement and how much you are saving.

What you can do with your pension pot If you have saved into a defined contribution pension scheme during your working life, you need to decide what to do with the money you’ve saved towards your pension when you retire.

There are lots of options to consider, and it’s important you make the best choice to meet your future needs.

What is a pension pot?

Your pension pot is the total amount of pension contributions you and/or your

employer have made to save for your retirement. Your pot also includes any capital growth earned from the fund’s investments, depending on how your scheme was set up.

Your pension pot doesn’t include your State Pension which is provided by the government.

Your fund should send you a pension statement once a year that tells you how much your pension pot is worth, or there may be an option to check this on their website.

If you have made pension contributions into multiple pension pots, then you will need to contact each fund separately for a statement.

Seek advice from a regulated independent financial adviser before making any decisions and consider all your options carefully.

How can I use my pension pot?

You have the freedom to choose how you use each of your pension pots, based on what best suits your needs. Each option comes with its own set of rules, fees, benefits, risks and tax issues.

Deciding what to do with your pension pot can be complicated – there are many factors to consider and financial terms to understand.

You don’t have to rush into anything.

You don’t want to end up in a situation where you’re unable to use your

pension pot money, or the money has run out. Think about your:

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doing nothing – leave your money invested in your pension scheme

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a mix of these options, depending on the size of your pension pot.

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The Venus Awards – dubbed by Channel 4 as “The Working Women’s Oscars” – celebrate the vital contribution that women in business make to the local, regional, and national economy. . .

Santander Thames Valley Venus Awards 2018, in association with Marshall Volkswagen, announce winners at Grand Ceremony!

Winners of the Santander Thames Valley Venus Awards 2018 in association with Marshall Volkswagen were announced at a Grand Ceremony and Gala Dinner at the Royal Berkshire Conference Centre, Madejski Stadium on 8th June 2018.

Over 250 guest, finalists and sponsors from across the South East, attended the Inspirational Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner of the Santander Thames Valley Venus Awards 2018, held at the Royal Berkshire Conference Centre, Madejski Stadium on 8th June 2018.

The Venus Awards – dubbed

by Channel 4 as “The Working Women’s Oscars” – celebrate the vital contribution that women in business make to the local, regional, and national economy, and are unique in that anyone can nominate a friend, client or family member.

Hosts for the evening’s inspiring celebrations were Tara Howard, founder of Venus Awards, and Robert Kenny, The Breeze Radio.

Every sponsor emphasised the outstanding calibre of their category 46

Finalists when presenting the winner with their “Venus” trophy.

Cheryl Adams, Regional Director, Santander Corporate & Commercial said: “We’ve been supporting the Venus Awards in Thames Valley since launch. It gives us the opportunity to celebrate the outstanding contribution of women in business across the region. We have seen the Venus Awards grow from something quite small to something so impressive and are very proud to be part of it.”

Andrew Lean, Marshall Volkswagen Franchise Director said: “It’s a delight to be part of the Venus Awards, we were also involved last year and it’s a really

great fit for us and our business. The Winners ceremony is a fantastic night with a great buzz and atmosphere.”

This year’s Charity Sponsor is Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent. They provide specialist end of life care, aiming to help people live as well as possible with the effects of their conditions by offering care, symptom management and support from a multi-professional team.

The roll call of nominees, finalists, winners and sponsors is a testament to the growing appeal of the Venus Awards in the Thames Valley. This year’s winners will now progress to the Venus Awards National Finals to be held in the Summer of 2018.

The Venus Awards were set up in Dorset in 2009 by Tara Howard to recognise the hard work, effort and skill it takes women to juggle business and their other commitments. The Awards have since been expanded to Southampton, Brighton, Devon & Cornwall, Oxford, Portsmouth, Birmingham, Isle of Wight, Bristol and have now launched for the first year in London!

To find out more about the Venus Awards please contact Tara Howard 01202 559039 or tara@venusawards.co.uk www.venusawards.co.uk

All Winners at the Santander Thames Valley Venus Awards 2018 Ceremony.

And the winners are. . .

Š Christian Lawson

Winners of the Santander Thames Valley Venus Awards 2018 in association with Marshall Volkswagen are: Networker of the Year Award sponsored by Prysm Group: Jade Binsted (Ribbons Media)

Inspirational Woman Award sponsored by Reading University: Anna Sampson (Boomerang Creative)

Marketing & PR Award sponsored by ShowState: Nikki Ball (Reading Buses)

Sales Director of the Year Award sponsored by Sandler Training: Sam Stanfield (poweredbypie)

Green Business Award sponsored by IKEA: Julianne Ponan (Creative Nature)

Small Business Award sponsored by Local Buzz: Anna Davis (Therapists on the High Street)

Employer of the Year sponsored The Breeze Radio: Judith Tinker (M-four Promotions Limited)

Lifetime Achievement Award sponsored by Wise Owls: Gerry Lejeune OBE (Berkshire Community Foundation)

Business Mother of the Year Award sponsored by Reading Chronicle: Rachel Lambden (Heritage Estate Planning)

PA of the Year Award sponsored by Sandler Training: Kate Napier (Rank Group)

Influential Woman of the Year Award sponsored by Parfitt Cresswell Solicitors: Katherine Knight (Intelligent Health) Customer Service Award sponsored by Marshall Volkswagen: Nicola Butler (Nikki Butler Medical Tattooing) Director of the Year Award sponsored by Santander: Sally Preston (The Kids Food Company Ltd) Finance Professional of the Year Award sponsored by Rapid Search & Interim and Firefly: Elona Mortimer-Zhika (Iris Software Group)

Entrepreneur of the Year Award sponsored by Grandesco: Rachel Eden (Holy Book Associates Ltd) HR Manager of the Year Award sponsored by Benefex: Emily Murphy (Ikea Group)

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#TheBigPitch 2018

And the winner is. . .

Little Plugger!

A fantastic effort from all the companies who presented their products and services at #TheBigPitch 2018 this summer.

We were delighted to welcome local businesses pitching for a chance to win over ÂŁ4,000 of services from BuzzConnect Ambassadors to push their business to the next level.

The 2018 winner is Roy Green from the Little Plugger, an invention for planting bulbs but with a difference that will help lots of keen gardeners. #TheBigPitch has successfully run for the last 3 years with the support

from Parkway Shopping and PAUL Patisserie. BuzzConnect is grateful to Parkway management and staff for their support throughout the years, help to set up and make the day a fruitful one! We also enjoy a delicious lunch by PAUL with mouth-watering quiches, sandwiches and pastries.

Winner Roy Green from the Little Plugger who will benefit from over ÂŁ4,000 of services from BuzzConnect Ambassadors.

Below : BuzzConnect Ambassadors and Libby Herbert from Colostomy UK - BuzzConnect 2018 chosen charity.

We would like to thank all the businesses that took part and shared their business propositions. If you know a local business that would like to join us at the #TheBigPitch 2019, please check our website www.buzz-connect.co.uk for registration details.

Join us today and reap the benefits

By attending a BuzzConnect event you are also supporting

Our networking events are rapidly growing and we have added more events that will bring greater opportunities to local businesses to engage, network and promote their products/services.

BUZZCONNECT AMBASSADORS

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BuzzConnect is delighted to host this event at the Donnington Grove Hotel on 19th July, 5.30pm - 7.00pm

If you have come along to one of our events, you will have noticed the warm and welcoming approach that we take. We encourage everyone to get involved and promote what they do.

BuzzConnect was created to bring people together and we believe that there should be no exclusions, no long-term contracts and no “performance pressure” such as speaking to the room and giving a 2-minute introduction about your company.

Our monthly networking at Metro Bank is hugely popular and will always be free. However, our evening events have a small charge which covers our immediate costs with proceeds going towards our chosen charity. For 2018 we have partnered with Colostomy UK.

More events this year In order to give you a great networking experience and to allow you to plan in advance, here are BuzzConnect 2018 events for your diary.

METRO BANK

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Insightful Topics at every event - check online! 5.30pm 7.00pm 19th July . 18th October

Make sure you join the BuzzConnect Networking Group on Facebook, so you can share your company information for free and be part of a thriving business community.

or it has and they just haven’t noticed! This session will explain the main risks and what can be done to reduce them in view of protecting business leaders and their customers.

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Cyber Crime?

Would this cause you anxiety?

Two thought-provoking and current topics that businesses should be aware of nowadays.

Whist technology offers today’s businesses enormous benefits, it also poses significant threats in terms of cybersecurity. With cybercrime, a growing issue and data protection laws toughening, it is critical that businesses understand their vulnerabilities and implement measures to protect themselves and their customers.

Who should attend?

Anyone who is a business owner, C-suite member, office manager or IT professional.

Benefits of attending?

Cybercrime is a fact of business life, yet many business leaders, especially of SMEs, think it won’t affect them. The reality is that if it hasn’t already, then it will. . .

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What is Anxiety?

How can we reduce it?

The combination of technology, pace of life and a “switched on” society have caused a massive increase in people suffering from anxiety. Rob will share exactly what anxiety is, how to use strategies, tools and techniques to help reduce it.

Who should attend?

People who would like a better understanding of anxiety and get some real-life tools and techniques to help reduce anxiety. It also explains how Cognitive Hypnotherapy can help people think and feel differently in situations that may cause them to feel anxious and tips on how to approach life from a healthier perspective.

Spaces are limited so please book as soon as possible via www.buzz-connect.co.uk

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Sow beetroot, carrots, dwarf French beans, lettuce, radishes and runner beans.

Get a bumper vegetable harvest Now is the time to reap of lot of what you've sown, but remember there's still time to plant extra crops.

Keep an eye on the watering and your fingers crossed for sunny summer days. Catch veg while it is at its peak and harvest it regularly

rather than leaving it to go woody or bitter-tasting. Remember that if you have more of something than you want to eat or store, it's just as useful to recycle it by adding it to the compost heap.

Limit tomato growth by pinching out the growing tip of your cordon tomato plant when it reaches the roof of the greenhouse. Pinch out the side-shoots as they develop.

Veg to sow outdoors in July include beetroot, carrots, dwarf French beans, lettuce, radishes and runner beans.

Feed your lawn For many of us the lawn is the centrepiece to the garden that sets off everything else. As long as there is no drought, it's worth feeding the lawn regularly. During dry weather, raise the blades on your lawn mower to allow the grass to grow a little bit longer. This will keep it greener and help it retain moisture. Don't panic if your grass does turn brown as it will soon green up again when the rain returns.

Gardening Tips From pond clearing to summer blooms

Keep your pond in top condition Ponds and other water features also need some care in July and August to keep them healthy and looking good.

Look out for any yellowing leaves on water lilies and other water plants and remove them promptly. Allowing them to fall off and rot in the water will decrease water quality. Remove blanket weed with a net or rake to let oxygen into your pond.

Remember to give aquatic life a chance to get back to the water by piling the weed next to the pond for a day. Top up water levels. Water can evaporate rapidly from water features and ponds in the height of summer, so top them up if the water level drops significantly.

Rainwater from a water butt is best – chemicals in tap water can affect the nutrient balance in the pond.

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Encourage summer flowers Cut back early flowering perennials to the ground and they will send up fresh leaves and maybe even some extra late-summer flowers.

Give them a boost after pruning with a good soak of water and some tomato feed.

Exploit plants' desperate need to set seed by removing blooms as they fade.

Remember that plants in containers are dependent on you for their water as they will get little benefit from any rain. Give them a good soak at least once a day in sunny weather.

Houseplants: holiday care Most houseplants will tolerate a few days' absence without suffering, but absences of more than a week call for some creative measures to provide valuable moisture in the right quantity.

Wick method This method is useful for large single pot plants. Use a large container to hold water, and a piece of capillary matting as a wick. Insert one end of the wick into the reservoir and tuck the other end into the plant pot. This will enable the plant to draw on the water reserves in the reservoir.

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