Local Buzz – Award Winning Lifestyle Magazine ISS56

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LOCAL Connecting Local Businesses with Local People

This month's charity

JANUARY 2019 localbuzzmagazine.com

Have A HUG!


NEW YEAR NEW YOU

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Welcome Happy New Year!

As we settle into the new year, we focus on fresh resolutions. We vow to make changes in order to better ourselves and our lives. Whether it is losing weight, quitting bad habits, making time for a hobby or even taking on more responsibility at work, there are several reasons why we think we should implement these goals. Eventually, some of these changes are too drastic or difficult and they end up falling through or fading out. But we have brought you some tips on keeping up with your goals. Please turn to page 12 to find out more.

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Hug your furry friend

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

Editor-in-Chief Jackie Osborne jackie@localbuzzmagazine.com Designer Vanessa Davis studio@localbuzzmagazine.com Website Editor Charleigh Cox editor@localbuzzmagazine.com Social Media Jamie Blowes jamie@localbuzzmagazine.com Sales Angela Walker angela@localbuzzmagazine.com Accounts Lesley Shurman accounts@localbuzzmagazine.com

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4 Super Seeds

Contributor Dr Michael Greger Advertise in Local Buzz sales@localbuzzmagazine.com Call us on 01635 200 006 www.localbuzzmagazine.com

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The Vantage

To promote your event: events@localbuzzmagazine.com Address: 11 Queen Eleanor House, Kingsclere Park, Kingsclere RG20 4SW Your complimentary copy or where sold ÂŁ2. Thank you for the continued encouragement from our advertisers, supporters and the local community.

FOR A DAILY DOSE OF LOCAL BUZZ

On the 21st January we celebrate National Hugging Day. The purpose of the day is to encourage everyone to hug family and friends more often as well as show more emotion in public. I think it is a great opportunity for us all to show affection. On page 15 you can read the benefits of hugging someone. Go on, you can do it! May each day of 2019 bring our local community lots of happiness, luck, joy, happiness and prosperity!

Jackie Osborne - Editor-in-Chief

6 Local Buzz 9 Competitions 11 What’s On? 12 Happy New Year 14 Burns Night 15 National Hugging Day 19 Fine Food 23 Recipes 25 January Sales Guide 29 Dr Michael Greger 32 Summer Sun with Consol 34 Winter Sun Destinations 38 Garden View 47 Naomi House 48 BuzzConnect 54 Services 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.


SUPER SATURDAY 9 FEBRUARY

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Do you have any news that you would like to share? We’d love to hear from you editor@localbuzzmagazine.com

Your Local Buzz A Gripping Read Local author, Iris Lloyd was 70 before writing her first novel and since then has published eight novels; the latest being “My Lady Marian”, set in the court of Henry VIII. “Marian’s hands trembled as she knelt on the scaffold to tuck Queen Anne Boleyn’s long dark hair into a black cloth cap in readiness for her execution. She had not known – how could she? – when her guardian brought her to the court of Henry VIII at Greenwich Palace, that this would one day be her distressing duty. Young Marian had flourished at court, in spite of its many temptations and distractions, not least the unwelcome advances of privy councillor Lord Bathampton. However, throughout twelve turbulent years, she had never relinquished her dream of finding happiness with the only man she truly loved.”

Two ladies, Mrs Ashman and Mrs Pike, are elected to the parish council, the first time women have been elected to the parish 6

in the standsy 1st Februar

Thornycroft Roundabout improvement Councillor Rob Humby, Hampshire County Council’s Executive Member for Environment and Transport, has approved the implementation of the A340 Thornycroft Roundabout Improvement Scheme in Basingstoke.

The £9.5 million upgrade will be funded by Local Growth Fund from the EM3 Local Economic Partnership, Hampshire County Council and Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council. Work is due to start in spring 2019.

Thatcham 100 Years Ago

Sydney Ashman starts a road transport business using a vehicle based in an old barn at the top of the Broadway. In 1921 Sydney forms a partnership with Wilfred Street and they form Thatcham Road Transport Services and by 1924 have moved to Colthrop.

the next Issue

Thornycroft roundabout is an important part on the Basingstoke strategic network, as it is situated on the western section of Basingstoke ring road, linking Ringway West to Churchill Way West.

The price is £8.99 and signed copies are available through www.irislloyd.co.uk, or email iris@irislloyd.co.uk – please add £2 for postage.

We start a New Year, 2019, but what did the New Year bring 100 years ago? Harry Collins and Geoffrey Witts set up a woodturning business behind the parish hall in Chapel Street. The site remained in use until it was destroyed by a fire in 1932. The business then moved to new premises in St Johns Road.

Don't Miss

council. Mrs Anna Ashman (née Munro), was born in Glasgow in 1881 to Margaret Ann MacVean and Evan MacDonald Munro. In 1906 she joined the Women's Social and Political Union and founded a branch in Dunfermline. She was not one for staying still or keeping quiet she took part in a walk from Scotland to London and was later arrested and imprisoned several times. She eventually met local man Sydney Ashman and in 1913 they married.

For more information visit www.hants. gov.uk/transport/transportschemes/ thornycroftroundaboutbasingstoke

Thatcham Historical Society www.thatchamhistoricalsociety.org.uk

To the delight of many, 1919 also saw racing at Newbury Racecourse resumed after being closed during the First World War. LOCAL BUZZ


Richard Benyon MP

Kit Malthouse MP

Combatting Loneliness

Building Homes

Did you know that the third Monday of January is known as Blue Monday? This is said to be the gloomiest day of the year due to post Christmas blues, credit card bills, the cold and the dark. Whatever the reason, it’s a good time to look at what is going on to combat gloom, in particular the blight of loneliness and isolation.

Happy New Year and I hope you’ve all had a relaxing festive period with your loved ones.

The statistics are shocking. Loneliness does not discriminate by age, geography or status. Most of us need social interaction and the Jo Cox Commission on Loneliness has highlighted that, without the right support at the right time, loneliness can become a chronic state of unhappiness that contributes to poor health for the individual concerned, and ultimately rising pressure on public services.

2019 is going to be another busy year and I’m looking forward to rolling my sleeves up and getting cracking! Building homes – more, better, faster – will continue to be my priority and I will do everything I can to move towards our target of 300,000 new homes a year by the mid-2020s. We need more homes, but we also need them to be better designed and better suited to local needs. We must build the communities that we will be proud to call ‘home’ for generations to come. As we build for everyone, we must also protect our beautiful countryside and I’ll be chairing a panel discussion in conjunction with The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE), where we will look at how we can better assimilate local people’s views into planning – especially Neighbourhood Plans and affordable housing.

Looking at supporting our communities here in West Berkshire, I am hosting a conference on Loneliness and Isolation in February. Organised with the Volunteer Centre and the CCB, the aim is to bring together as many organisations and interested individuals as possible to share information. It will take place at the Fair Close Centre which provides a warm welcome and hot meals for senior citizens in and around Newbury. Like so many initiatives in this sector it relies on the goodwill and energy of volunteers so a plug here for the Volunteer Centre’s V365 event at the Corn Exchange on Saturday 12th January - a perfect opportunity to make 2019 your year of volunteering. Rt Hon Richard Benyon MP for Newbury

Finally, I will do whatever I can to help heal the country’s wounds during what has been one of the most intense and torrid political periods in our country’s history. With best wishes for a happy and successful 2019.

Visit V365 and meet 70 charities On Saturday 12th January between 9.30am and 3pm at The Corn Exchange, you will be able to learn, mingle and find out how you can get involved with various charities. The word volunteering to some people may mean working and supporting charitable organisations and having a stake in your local community, however, for some it remains a mistery. How do you find out ‘what’s out there?’ Who do you go to and just how much time do you need? Volunteering and community engagement is a lot simpler and less complicated than you might imagine. The time and commitment is completely based on your interests and passions. The Volunteer Centre West Berkshire is putting on an amazing event designed to help you decide how to become involved in your community. By bringing together around 70 local organisations under one roof, you can chat in an informal way with charities and find out how you can put a little of your time to good use and make an investment in your own community. The event is called V365 which stands for volunteering that goes on 365 days of the year. If you are interested in conservation, education, older people, counselling, homelessness, poverty, isolation, history and heritage, there will be an organisation for you to meet with and discover more about them. It is a real educational day. This is an opportunity for anyone to find out about services that are available in Newbury and West Berkshire. Join us at V365 and everyone will be happy to chat about their work. The Corn Exchange doors opens at 9:30 until 3pm. Garry Poulson

Kit Malthouse MP Minister for Housing and Planning in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government

Director Volunteer Centre West Berkshire

www.volunteerwestberks.org.uk

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the first time. This eclectic selection presents the excellence and originality in the medium today. 80 works have been selected by a panel of leading figures from the art world.

What's on in January Comedy Club Fri 11th 8:00pm - 11:00pm Corn Exchange Newbury Leave your cares at the door, grab a drink and join us for an evening of laughter as Avalon presents some of the best new names in comedy. Minimum Age: 18

The Sunday Times Watercolour Competition Exhibition Sat 12th - 26th 10:00am - 4:00pm Willis Museum in Basingstoke Hampshire Cultural Trust is delighted to bring The Sunday Times Watercolour Competition 2018 shortlist and winners to the Willis Museum, Basingstoke for

Oye Santana Woodstock 50th Anniversary Tour Fri 18th 7:00pm - 10:30pm SUB89 in Reading You’ll love Oye Santana. Awesome guitar plus a good-time fiesta performance from the first chink of tambourine to the get-up-and-boogie finale.

techniques, songs and a meditation session at the end of each class. Minimum Age: 5 Jazz guitarist Mike Miller with his trio playing The Tea Bar Sun 27th 1:00pm til 4:00pm (last entry 3:30pm) The Tea Bar in Basingstoke A friendly welcome awaits you in our beautiful tea rooms with over 30 varieties of tea. Perfect Sunday afternoon tea experience.

Children's Yoga Classes Wed 23rd 10:00am - 4:00pm Tilehurst Methodist Church in Reading Yoga poses, mindfulness games, breathing

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New Year's Resolution Ideas. . . Improve your concentration and mental skills People have been trying to find ways to improve their focus and cognitive capacities for thousands of years, and most ancient civilizations had some combination of mental exercise and herbal medicine to help them reach this goal. Today we can use anything from apps to ancient meditation techniques to boost concentration and hone our mental skills. If you go through with this, you will be able to control your mood, learn faster and have an easier time solving problems.

Meeting new people can be beneficial to your mental well-being

Happy N Become more confident and take some chances If you are confident other people notice it, and it is much easier to have your opinions heard, ask people out on dates and get ahead at work. A good dose of self-confidence will help you lead a much happier life overall. Don’t hesitate to get some input on ways to boost your confidence.

Reduce stress Meet new people When we get stuck in a rut, we usually end up staying at home most of the time, missing out on a lot of interesting opportunities for networking and having fun. Meeting new people can be beneficial to your mental well-being and help your career, so don’t be afraid to get out there and make some friends. Overcome your shyness, get some knowledge and go and get to know new and interesting people.

. . . massaging your ears to reduce stress is simple, effective. . . 12

They say that stress is one of the biggest killers out there, and it can have a very destructive effect on your relationships as well as your health. It may be an unavoidable side effect of our hectic modern lifestyles, but it can be effectively managed with the help of useful, unconventional and easy to practice tricks for stress management. It may sound strange but massaging your ears to reduce stress is simple, effective and only takes a few minutes. Gently rub your earlobes with your thumb and index finger, then squeeze the outer edges of your ears from bottom to top. These parts of your ears have reflex points that relax specific areas of your body.


Become tidier

You should be aiming for at least 8 hours of sleep a night

There are a lot of slobs out there who can’t really get their stuff organized, and a cluttered desk or chaotic home will negatively affect your productivity and even your mood, so it helps to clear the clutter, clean your house and lead a tidier and more organized life.

Better quality sleep With big TVs, computers, smartphones, tablets and all sorts of gadgets with glowing lights and beeping alerts, it can be hard to get enough sleep at night. You should be aiming for at least 8 hours of sleep a night, and there are fairly simple ways to achieve this number if you make use of science and everday hacks.

New Year! Are you planning on a New Year's Resolution? Whether you are trying to eat better, sleep more or read more books, the key is to make the goal achievable, by breaking it up into smaller, more achievable steps. If your New Year’s resolution is to exercise more often don’t throw yourself into exercising five times per week. You don’t even need to join a gym. Go for a half an hour walk or jog before work or when you get home three times a week – or do a half an hour of body weightbased session in your home. This will get you into the habit of exercising, and so you can increase the

Read more Books are an excellent way to gain a lot of knowledge on a huge variety of topics, and are also a great exercise for your brain. It’s not that difficult to go through 20 or more books in a year – you only need to make it a habit, discover your type of books and find a bit of time for reading here and there.

amount you exercise as you get fit and join the gym when you’re ready and know you can commit. New Year’s resolutions don’t need to be daunting, you just need to be proactive about it. While we might not think there is enough time in our days to achieve our goals, just 20 minutes per day working towards your resolution can make all the difference.

Here are some suggestions for a better nights sleep : Shut out the lights Bright lights actually repress melatonin, which is responsible for regulating our sleep cycles. It is also recommended to avoid reading from back-lit devices late at night. The darker the room, the better. Try using heavy curtains or a sleep mask. Don’t eat right before bed Have your final meal about 3 hours before bedtime. Eating too close to bed will leave your digestive system working very hard and might cause an upset stomach throughout the night. Don’t sleep too much When it comes to sleep, there is too much of a good thing. Oversleeping can lead to heart disease, diabetes and depression. The average adult will need 8 hours sleep. This can vary from person to person, but use this as a guideline. Avoid caffeine and alcohol Caffeine is a stimulant and it keeps the body alert and energized. Alcohol may initially calm you or make you feel drowsy, but it actually increases the amount of times you will wake up during the night.

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Every year, Scotland leads the world in the celebration of the life and legacy of one of the most famous literary figures, Robert Burns, or Rabbie Burns, as he's often known. From Ayr to Atlanta, Montrose to Moscow, St Andrews to Singapore, traditional gatherings take place across the globe in honour of Scotland's favourite son.

Burns Night 25 JANUARY Brief History Robert Burns was born on 25 January 1759 in the village of Alloway, two miles south of Ayr to parents, Willian Burnes and Agnes Broun who were tenant farmers. They ensured their son received a relatively good education and he began to read avidly. The works of Alexander Pope, Henry Mackenzie and Laurence Sterne fired Robert's poetic impulse and relationships with the opposite sex provided his inspiration. Handsome Nell, for Nellie Kilpatrick, was his first song. Hard physical labour on the family farm took its toll on the young Burns, who increasingly turned his attentions towards the passions of poetry, nature, drink and women which would characterise the rest of his life. He fathered twins with eventual wife Jean Armour, but a rift in their relationship nearly led to Burns emigrating to the West Indies with lover Mary Campbell (his Highland Mary). However, Mary's sudden death and the sensational success of his first published collection of verse kept him in Scotland. At just 27, Burns had already become famous across

the country with poems such as To a Louse, To a Mouse and The Cotter's Saturday Night. In due time, Burns had spent most of the wealth from his published poetry, so in 1789 he began work as an Excise Officer in Dumfries and resumed his relationship with wife Jean. His increasingly radical political views influenced many of the phenomenal number of poems, songs and letters he continued to pen. The hard work this new job entailed, combined with the toil of his earlier life and dissolute lifestyle began to take their toll on Burns's health. He died on 21 July 1796 aged just 37 and was buried with full civil and military honours on the very day his son Maxwell was born. A memorial edition of his poems was published to raise money for his wife and children.

Suspicion is a heavy armor and with its weight it impedes more than it protects. Robert Burns 14

Burns Supper

The perfect antidote to a cold, dark late January night is a Burns Supper. These evenings are warm and merry affairs, filled with fervent speech-giving, poetry recitals and plenty of food and drink. For many, the highlight of the evening comes with the arrival of the haggis. Scotland's national dish takes centre stage, as the words to one of Burns' most wellkent poems, Address to a Haggis are ceremoniously recounted for all to hear. His catalogue of poetry and songs was broadly written in Scots dialect, the everyday tongue of Scottish people in the 18th century. On reading Burns' verse for the first time, it's common not to understand all the words, but still grasp the theme of the poem. Regardless of whether you immerse yourself in the language, searching for meaning line by line, or simply let the words wash over you with their curious sounds conjuring images and ideas, you can't fail to be moved by his works.


Give someone a big hug and use #NationalHuggingDay to post on social media.

National Hugging Day JANUARY 21

The benefits of hugging

National Hugging Day is an annual event dedicated to hugging. It was created by Kevin Zaborney and occurs annually on January 21. The day was first celebrated on January 21, 1986 in Clio, Michigan, USA but is not a public holiday. The event is also observed in many other countries. The purpose of the day is to encourage everyone to hug family and friends more often as well as show more emotion in public. Zaborney suggests to ask first if one is unsure of the response.

Day and the Free Hugs campaigns share many similarities, there is not an association between the two. Whether you hug a family member or a stranger, the mental and physical health benefits are the same.

There is only one way you are supposed to celebrate; offer a hug to anyone and everyone you want. Whilst National Hug

Kevin Zaborney is credited with coming up with the idea of National Hugging Day in 1986. It was included in Chase's Calendar of Events; Zaborney's friend at the time was the granddaughter of the proprietors of the publication. He chose January 21 because it fell between Christmas/New Year holidays and Valentines' Day, when he found that people are generally in low spirits. Zaborney considered that "society is embarrassed to show feelings in public" and hoped that a National Hugging Day would change that, although he thought that his idea would fail.

Hugs reduce stress by showing your support. Scientists say that giving another person support through touch can reduce the stress of the person being comforted. Hugs can make you happier. Oxytocin is a chemical in our bodies that scientists sometimes call the “cuddle hormone�. This is because its levels rise when we hug, touch or sit close to someone else. Oxytocin is associated with happiness and less stress. Hugs help reduce your fears. Scientists have found that touch can reduce anxiety in people with low self-esteem. Touch can also keep people from isolating themselves. Hugs help you communicate with others. Most human communication occurs verbally or through facial expressions. But touch is another important way that people can send messages to one another.

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National Hugging Day JANUARY 21

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It is a proven fact that hugging your pet is healthy for you! Did you know that hugging your pet relieves stress, builds the immune system and makes for a better night’s sleep?

Hug your furry friend The next time your dog runs up to you when walking through the front door or your cat cuddles up next to you – let the hug fest begin! Not only will your pet feel loved, but you are improving your daily health. When you share a hug, your pet will feel secure, empowered and a higher level of self-esteem. As well as this, the medicinal value in hugging your pet, stimulates the thymus gland which balances the body’s production of white blood cells keeping us healthy. This stimulates the brain’s release of dopamine which reduces depression and activates pleasure.

Improve your immune system Pets spend a lot of their time outside and therefore bring all sorts of dirt and germs into your home. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing though – the additional germs can help improve your immunity to colds and other mild illnesses. In fact, previous studies have shown that babies who live with a dog tend to experience fewer infections and are generally healthier than those who don’t.

Lower your stress levels Modern life is stressful and high levels of anxiety can lead to numerous health problems. Luckily, pets can really help us relax – stroking your cat or simply watching fish swim around in a tank can

make your worries melt away. Previous studies have proven that pet owners tend to have lower blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels than people who don’t own a pet. That means having a furry pal can decrease the chances of suffering a heart attack later in life.

Help you make friends The pet owner community is an incredibly friendly one – you’ll often find that people will stop to talk to you

about your dog in the park. Having a pet is a great way to meet new people and create bonds quickly, especially if you’re not too good at small talk. You never know, owning a dog may help you meet the love of your life!

Companionship If you live by yourself, or your partner works different shift patterns to you, it can get awfully lonely at home – unless you have a pet, of course! Cats and dogs make great companions – they’ll always be waiting for you to come home and they’ll be happy to lend an ear should you want to moan about the awful day you’ve had. Plus, most of the time, they are up for a snuggle on the sofa.

Keeping fit All breeds of dog need regular, daily walks in order to stay happy and healthy, and so do we! However, we sometimes have the tendency to get a bit lazy – if that sounds like you, a dog is the perfect cure! They’ll be dragging you out the front door and making you run around the park each and every day. Yes, a dog is possibly the best personal trainer you could ask for. 17


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The pistachio is a small tree originating from Central Asia and the Middle East.

Almonds Almonds are tree nuts that contain a number of beneficial nutrients. They may have a beneficial effect on your gut microbiota by supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

Pistachios Pistachios are a commonly consumed nut that is high in fiber. They may help improve other heart disease risk factors, including blood pressure, weight and oxidative status. Portuguese colonists in Brazil began exporting cashew nuts as early as the 1550s.

ine

FOOD

Get Nutty! Nuts are healthy snack options. Though they’re usually high in fat, the fat they contain is a healthy type. They are also good sources of fiber and protein.

Cashews Part of the tree nut family and with a good nutrient profile, Cashews contain a number of important nutrients. Studies indicate that they may improve blood lipid levels and reduce blood pressure.

Pecans

Walnuts A very popular nut and an excellent source of the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid. They may also improve other factors related to heart health, including blood pressure and the normal flow of blood through your circulatory system.

The pecan is a species of hickory native to northern Mexico and the southern United States in the region of the Mississippi River.

Often used in desserts, but they are quite nutritious on their own. Pecans contain a variety of beneficial nutrients. They also pack antioxidants and may help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol.

Macadamia Nuts This information is a general guide. Nuts and peanuts can cause allergic reactions, which are sometimes severe.

Macadamia nuts contain a wide range of nutrients and are a great source of monounsaturated fat. They may reduce other risk factors for heart disease, including oxidative stress and inflammation. 19


Pumpkin Seeds In China, the pumpkin is called the Emperor of the Sun and has become the symbol of fruitfulness. It is a member of the gourd family and native to Asia. It gets its name from the Greek word pepon, which means cooked in the sun.

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Benefits Pumpkins seeds are rich in the amino acids alanin, glycene and glutamic acid, as well as being a good source of zinc and omega-3 essential fatty acids. They also contain protein, iron and phosphorus and are low in carbohydrates. The use of pumpkin seeds is well documented in old herbals for the treatment of prostate disorders and modern research backs this up. The reason? They contain curcubitacins, substances which are thought to help prevent conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, high levels of which can encourage prostate enlargement. Pumpkin seeds are also thought to help urinary tract infections in women. Try them Roasting pumpkin seeds helps to bring out their natural flavour. They are especially delicious sprinkled over salads.

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Sesame Seeds In Hindu mythology the God Yama blessed the sesame seed and these tiny seeds are regarded throughout the East as symbols of immortality. Benefits Sesame seeds are packed with protein, iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium and phytic acid while being low in carbohydrates. They also contain sesamin and sesamolin, substances that may help lower cholesterol levels, and are a well-known source of vitamin E plus omega-6 and monounsaturated

20

fats. These can help to prevent furring of the arteries as well as boost the elasticity of the skin. As an added bonus, sesame seeds are thought to aid digestion, to stimulate blood circulation and help the nervous system. Try them Snack on sesame seeds or make them into the creamy paste known as tahini. You can spread this on bread, mix with pureed chickpeas in hummus or use as a sauce with vegetables as the Arabs do. To get the maximum nutrients from sesame seeds you need to chew them well.

3

Sunflower Seeds The sunflower became the mystic symbol of several early civilisations, notably the Incas who worshipped the sun. The North American Indians used the leaves as animal food, the petals were brewed into a distinctive yellow dye for their clothes and skin and the seeds were ground into food and crushed into oil. Benefits Sunflower seeds are rich in the B complex vitamins, which are essential for a healthy nervous system and are a good source of phosphorus, magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium,


4 Super Seeds Discover the health benefits of four readily-available seeds and how to add them to your diet.

A,

protein and vitamin E. They also contain trace minerals, zinc, manganese, copper, chromium and carotene as well as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids - types of 'good' fat that may help to protect the arteries. A good natural source of zinc, sunflower seeds are popular immune boosters. They may also help protect against heart disease while their vitamin B can help in the fight against stress. Try them High in protein and low in carbohydrates, sunflower seeds make the ideal pick-me-up tasty snack.

4

Seeds contain high levels of essential fatty acids, the full profile of amino acids needed to form complete and digestible protein, plus vitamins B, C and E as well as the minerals calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron, selenium and manganese.

Flaxseeds Originating in Mesopotamia, the flax plant has been known since the Stone Age and the health benefits of flaxseeds, more often known as linseeds, were widely praised in ancient Greece and Rome. Benefits They are an excellent source of omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids, which are needed for most bodily functions, as well as dietary fibre and manganese. They are also rich in folate and vitamin B6 and the minerals magnesium, phosphorus and copper.

In addition linseeds contain lignans, a type of phytoestrogen, which it is believed may help relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes. Because they are high in soluble fibre, linseeds are also sometimes used to relieve constipation. Try them Soak a tablespoon of linseeds in a glass of water for a few hours then drink. Alternatively grind them in a coffee grinder and sprinkle over your morning cereal.

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Celebrate your special occasion with us De Vere Wokefield Estate is just the place to host your next special occasion. Whoever you are celebrating with, choose to hold your awards ceremony, birthday party, christening celebration or gala dinner in either the historic Mansion House or the distinctively contemporary Wokefield Place and enjoy delicious food, fine wines and peaceful grounds. Party packages are available from ÂŁ49 per person. This package includes room hire, an arrival drink, three-course meal, half a bottle of house wine, DJ and disco. Please quote "BUZZ" when enquiring. Bespoke quotations are also available upon request. Contact our Special Events Coordinator to discover more about our available packages Call 0118 933 4378 or email wokefieldsalesteam@devere.com

Please contact us directly for prices and availability. Booking and pre-payment required in advance of the event date. Applies to new bookings only. Please enquire about bedrooms at time of booking. Bedroom rates are subject to availability.


Pistachio and Ham Salad

For the dressing

Serves 6

2 tsp Dijon mustard

300ml yoghurt

300ml mayonnaise

175g halloumi, washed and cut into 1cm cubes 4 small eating apples, cored and cut into 1cm cubes 500g cooked ham, cut into 1cm pieces (or cooked chicken breast, shredded)

Pistachios are one of the oldest flowering nut trees

2 tbsp lemon juice 4 tbsp parsley, chopped 4 tbsp chives, chopped 4 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped

250g celery, cut into ½ cm slices 2 spring onions, including green heads, cut into ½ cm pieces

Juice of 1 lemon 1 tsp salt & 1 tsp turmeric

Method

1 In a large bowl, toss together the halloumi, apples, ham, celery, spring onions and pistachios. 2 To make the dressing, whisk the yoghurt and mayonnaise until well blended. Add the mustard, lemon juice and herbs, then mix well. 3 Pour the yoghurt mayonnaise over the salad, together with the lemon juice, salt and cayenne pepper. Mix well then place in the refrigerator and allow to chill for around an hour.

175g shelled pistachios ½ tsp cayenne pepper

In China the pistachio is known as 'the happy nut'

Pistachios are related to the mango and the spice sumac

4 Garnish with the turmeric and serve.

Delicious Recipes TRY SOMETHING NEW!

Date, Walnut and Pecan Loaf Serves 10-12 320g honey

175g pitted dates, chopped 50g walnuts, roughly chopped 50g pecans, roughly chopped 1½ tsp bicarbonate of soda 1 tsp vanilla extract 350g wholegrain spelt flour, sifted 3 heaped tsp baking powder Zest of 1 orange, finely grated Finely grated zest and juice of 1 lemon ½ tsp salt Date fruits have been present in the Middle East and Northern Africa as a local food for more than 7000 years. They have been agricultural produced for 5000 years.

Method 1 Put the honey, 550ml water, the dates, walnuts and pecans in a medium saucepan and gently bring to the boil. Remove from the heat and allow to cool completely. 2 Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/gas mark 4. Grease and flour a 22 x 12cm loaf tin. 3 Stir the bicarbonate of soda, vanilla extract, flour, baking powder, orange and lemon zest and juice, and the salt into the cooled date mixture. Fold everything together until thoroughly combined. 4 Spoon into the loaf tin and bake in the oven for 60-70 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before turning out on to a wire rack to cool completely. 23


If you don't start with a limit, you’re almost guaranteed to blow your budget. 24


Y

R U

YO

R UA S N LE JA SA E

ID U G

We all love a bargain and sales save us so much money, right? Yes, but you need to shop smart to take proper advantage of the discounts and to avoid buying things you don’t need. Do your research

Remember postage costs

Plan your route

Many retailers market their sales beforehand and some even let you fill your shopping cart before sales officially open. This means you can think, plan and make sure that your purchases are relevant to your needs. Goodbye post-sales regrets!

If you are shopping online, extra costs like postage, customs and shipping aren’t usually included in discounts. Factor this in and keep checking your cart before you hit the ‘Pay’ button.

Planning will keep you focused and avoid you being lured into shops you are better off avoiding.

Shop your wardrobe first Take stock of what you already own. This is important when you are sales shopping. It is easy to get caught up in the frenzy of snapping up a great deal only to find that you already own three almost identical items to the bargain you just bought. If you go sales shopping armed with the knowledge that you DON'T need brown boots, or another leather jacket, you are more likely to make wise buying choices. Also, if you already know what you do own, you can think about what each item you purchase will co-ordinate with. Like this, you will be adding a cool-headed calm to the sales shopping mix!

Force yourself to try things on If it is worth queueing for the changing room and you still love it when it’s on, it’s probably a good find! If you can't be bothered to queue then put it back, you don't love it that much.

Set a budget If you don't start with a limit, you’re almost guaranteed to blow your budget. Also treat your budget as a limit not a target!

Beware of returns policies Most retailers won’t let you return sale items just because you don't like them once you get them home but...

Know your rights If a sale item is faulty then your rights as a consumer are the same as if the item was full price.

Take a friend Make sure they are the rational, honest type of friend who will tell you if something doesn’t suit you or doesn’t fit you. This way will keep you from blowing your budget on things you shouldn’t.

Wear clothes that are easy to get in and out of You don't want to have to spend half an hour in the changing room taking off boots with fiddly catches and tops with twenty buttons multiple times.

Eat something first Food is cheaper and healthier at home. Plus, it's scientific fact that clothes shopping on an empty stomach causes us to make impulse buys to satisfy hunger cravings! The human brain is quirky like that.

Happy Shopping! 25


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Do you have happy feet? Our feet allow us to stand up, walk or run and we expect them to support our weight, act as a shock absorber and take us where we want to go. If the feet are balanced, they absorb the shock that travels through our body, when the feet hit the ground. If the feet are imbalanced, they don’t absorb shock as they should and so it impacts our entire skeletal structure and causes pain in other joints, such as, our knees, hips, pelvis, lower back, right up to our neck. . . surprisingly the feet are often not painful! One of the main factors that causes the imbalance, is a loss of movement through some of the tiny joints in foot. Many people think that their flat feet (over pronation) or high If the feet are arches (over balanced, they supination) are the absorb the shock cause and in some that travels through cases it is. However, our body, when the in most cases, if the feet hit the ground. foot mobility is good, then the arch shape can be some what irrelevant. There are very few patients, where I may consider the use of permanent orthotics, because of the long term affect their arch height is having on the rest of their body. Please ring me to discuss, how osteopathy can help you.

Morning Grain Bowls From The How Not to Die Cookbook by Dr. Michael Greger with Gene Stone, recipes by Robin Robertson Makes: 4 Servings Difficulty: Easy Leftover cooked grains are a great way to start the day and quick, too! If you don’t have leftover grains, cook up a pot of your favorite grain the day before and you’ll have the start of something good in the morning.

©Antonis Achilleos

One question I get asked a lot when I am treating somebody is, why are you looking at my feet? So why do I? Because your feet are the foundation of our entire body.

Ingredients 3 cups cooked whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, freekeh, or oats) 3/4 cup cooked cannellini beans, mashed 2 cups almond milk 3 tablespoons ground flaxseeds 1 1-inch piece fresh turmeric, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground) 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional) 1 cup fresh or thawed frozen mixed berries 1 ripe banana, peeled and sliced 4 tablespoons date syrup (optional)

Mel Harrison

07727 666312

www.melharrisonosteopath.co.uk

ASK MEL - LOCAL BUZZ OSTEOPATHY EXPERT

melharrison156@yahoo.com 28

Method In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cooked grains, beans, almond milk, flax-seeds, turmeric, and ginger (if using). Mix well. Microwave for 2 to 3 minutes, or until warm but not too hot. Divide the grain mixture among four bowls. Top each serving with 1/4 cup of the berries and one-quarter of the sliced banana. Drizzle each serving with 1 tablespoon of date syrup, if desired.


Dr. Michael Greger M.D. FACLM

Eating more to weigh less Could adding fruit to your regular diet enhance weight loss? A 2008 study in Appetite put it to the test. If you add any food - even healthy food - to people’s diets, won’t they gain weight? No, subjects who ate three apples or pears every day on top of their regular diet lost a couple of pounds. Was that reduction due to fiber since our gut bacteria can create antiobesity compounds from fiber? Good question. That’s why the researchers also had a cookie group: Subjects ate either three apples, three pears, or three cookies with enough oats in them to have about the same amount of fiber as the fruit. Despite the fiber, adding cookies to one’s diet did not lead to

weight loss. It turns out the weight-reducing secret of fruit is probably its low energy density, meaning you get a lot of food for just a few calories, so it fills you up. As described by the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics “(e)nergy density is a relatively new concept that has been identified as an important factor in body weight control…” It is the amount of calories per unit weight of a food or beverage. Water and fiber, for example,

Local Buzz is delighted to welcome Dr. Michael Greger, a physician, author and professional speaker on public health issues to share his blogs in every issue. He focuses on the best available balance of evidence from the peer-reviewed scientific literature.

provide a significant amount of weight without adding calories. “Thus, foods high in water and/or fiber are generally lower in energy density. On the other hand, because dietary fat provides the greatest amount of energy per gram (calories per unit weight), foods high in fat are generally high in energy density.” Researchers in Hawaii put people on a traditional Hawaiian diet with all the plant foods they could eat. The subjects lost an average of 17 pounds in just 21 days, resulting in better cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugars, and blood pressure. Caloric intake dropped 40%, but not by eating less food. In fact, they lost 17 pounds in 21 days while eating more food. But, because plants tend to be so calorically dilute, one can stuff oneself without seeing the same kind of weight gain. Lower energy dense diets also tend to contain healthier foods, so we get the best of both worlds. For more information

Both his latest books, How Not to Die and the How Not to Die Cookbook, became instant New York Times Best Sellers. 100% of all proceeds he has ever received from his books, DVDs and speaking engagements have always and will always be donated to charity. 29



Herongate Club is more than a Health Club,

it’s part of your community A NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANISATION

We are nowYEAR, NEW CLUB NEW

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Herongate Club invites you to join us on your fitness journey

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Bringing you the Are you feeling sad this winter? It’s not surprising with the lack of daylight, sunshine and warmth. We get up for work in the dark, return home in the dark and the only daylight we see is out of out of the office window. A lack of sunlight can not only make us feel a little sad but more seriously, it can give us SAD.


Once a member, customers can use the facilities in over 40 studios throughout the South and Midlands.

Of course

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Summer look Sun g. getting your dose Consol, amazAtofinwinter sunshine has never Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as ‘Winter Depression’, is caused by a part of the brain not working properly, due to reduced exposure to sunshine. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include a low mood and depression, irritability, a complete lack of energy and drive, cravings for carbohydrates, weight gain and wanting to sleep longer than usual.

I TAN AT been easier.

Consol]

If you’re finding yourself swapping the treadmill and your five a day for a bowl of pasta on the sofa in the evenings, SAD could just be at the root of the cause. A range of treatments are recommended for SAD including getting as much sunlight as possible, exercising regularly and managing stress levels. Some GPs will even prescribe a light box to mimic sunlight to ease the symptoms of the condition.

Centre, Newbury RG1 1AY

8000 88 60 90

nsol.eu

We operate with world class sunbeds from the leading supplier Ergoline and unrivalled tube technology. All of tubes operate the safe limit of 0.3 which has been measured to be the same as the Mediterranean midday sunshine and promotes deep tanning without the risk of burning. In additional to benefitting from a little sunlight in the winter, UV light is also the best source of Vitamin D on the planet and between the months of October and March in the UK, we are unable to make any of the sunshine Vitamin at all due to the absence and weakness of the outdoor rays. Vitamin D itself has been attributed to the prevention of plenty of diseases including colon cancer, depression, high blood pressure, breast cancer,

fibromyalgia, prostate cancer, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), PMS, arthritis, psoriasis, diabetes and osteoporosis. UV exposure can also improve energy, enhance appearance, promote clear and even skin tone, cure skin complaints such as psoriasis, acne, eczema and elevate mood. Consol is convenient, accessible, clean and safe and open all 7 days a week from early until late. With no appointment necessary, customers can create their membership for free by registering at www.consol.eu and then verifying their age in store at our remote sign up station. Once a member, customers can use the facilities in over 40 studios throughout the South and Midlands.

08000 88 60 90 consol.eu

2 Parkway Shopping Centre Newbury | RG1 1AY

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WinterSun Escaping to warmer climes is always a tempting option once January comes around. Here are some amazing destinations. . . The Canary Islands

Tenerife

There are several reasons UK travellers flock to the Canary Islands when they head south for the winter. The sub-tropical climate where the islands stay a balmy 20°C and the quick flight time (less than four and a half hours from London). There are seven islands to choose from. All of them come with inviting beaches and impressive volcanic landscapes. Choose from something-foreveryone Tenerife, glamorous Gran Canaria, rugged Lanzarote or surfers’ paradise Fuerteventura – the latter two are slightly cooler, but also drier.

The Tenerife flag is the same as Scotland's, this is because St Andrew is the patron saint of the island. 34


On average, Cyprus receives 40 days of rainfall each year and it is known for its sunshine, with more than 300 sunny days during the year.

Mexico

Cape Verde

Cape Verde Cape Verde is an archipelago of volcanic islands west of Africa. Midwinter temperatures range from 21-26°C and a six-hour flight away. Expect to find Creole PortugueseAfrican hospitality that’s just as warm as the weather. Fill your days hiking craggy mountains, sunning yourself on powdery beaches.

Dubai

Mexico

Just beyond Europe, Morocco feels a world away despite its relatively short flight. Perched on the edge of the Sahara Desert, it remains warm throughout winter, which also happens to be the cheapest time to fly.

Unlike other long-haul, winter sun destinations like Thailand or the Caribbean, there are plenty of deals that make Mexico an affordable option. Winter is the coolest time to visit Mexico, which helps bring the price down further. Plus, thanks to its tropical climate you can still expect temperatures in the early- to midtwenties most days.

Madeira

Cyprus

The island’s volcanic peaks and richyet-rugged terrain make it the perfect place to get outdoors for walks, rambles or hikes with a view. Madeira has a very pleasant climate with mild waters and fresh mountain scenery. There are some lovely beaches too, but the lush flora and laurel forests are real highlights.

Cyprus has some of the best winter weather you’ll find without leaving Europe. A winter’s day in Cyprus is just like a spring day in the UK, around 17-19°C. With a divide of Turkish and Greek influence, this little island is one, quite literally, of two sides. As one of the oldest civilisations in the Mediterranean, it’s steeped in myths and history, which means that beyond the beaches, there are plenty of ancient ruins to explore.

Morocco

Maderia has the world's largest fireworks display for New Years Eve. ​They even made it into the Guinness Book of World Records in 2006.

Maderia

Dubai Dubai is well known for its glitz and glamour and even in winter expect temperatures of around 25°C. The overwhelming choice of flights and hotels keep top-line prices down. But be warned, the cost of eating, drinking and shopping can quickly add up in this sleek city.

Oman this Middle Eastern country comes with year-round sunshine and an achievable flight time. Oman isn’t as well-known or flashy as Dubai, but what it lacks in cutting-edge modernities, it more than makes up for with its rich cultural heritage. It is perfect for adventure lovers looking for something a little more than a beach break. 35


barnes Winter In Austria Sat 2nd March 2019 8 Days: From £825 Includes Innsbruck, Salzburg, Kitzbuhel Alps, Ambras Castle, two train rides, Krimml Falls, Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride, cheese & schnapps! This tour comprises several once in a lifetime experiences, which should not be missed! For our main hotel, we will be staying at the Jenbacker Hof Hotel Which is in the region known as the Tyrol, also known as The Land of the Mountains and it is a wonderland of gushing rivers, lush meadows and rugged peaks covered in snow.

The Delights of Devon - Paignton Mon 1st April 2019 5 Days: From £399 The warmest of welcomes awaits you on the English Riviera, South Devon’s Beautiful Bay. Surrounded by stunning coast and countryside, the towns of Torquay, Babbacombe and Paignton offer fantastic all year round holidays for everyone. All with fine views over Torbay with its vivid blue sea and sky. As well as the beautiful coastline, our tours will show us much of Devon’s enchanting countryside. We will be staying at the Redcliffe Hotel in Paignton which is located on the seafront.

01793 821303 www.barnescoaches.co.uk travel@barnescoaches.co.uk

Warners Cricket St Thomas Mon 11th March 2019 5 Days: From £379 We know that a break away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life is important to you, and Warners are here to help you make the most of it. Cricket St Thomas is set in a stunning location, has quality entertainment and sports, swimming and activities designed to help you have fun and indulge! You can choose to do as little or as much as you like.There will be stops in Exeter & Bath on the way to & from our hotel plus 2 short day trips out to Bridport & West Bay as well as Sidmouth to see the best of the local area, whilst still giving you plenty of time to enjoy the hotel’s facilities!

Eastbourne, The Sussex Coast & Countryside Mon 8th April 2019 5 Days: From £289 Eastbourne is one of England’s premier seaside resorts. It has a magnificent Victorian seafront and there are beautiful parks and gardens to enjoy. Tour highlights include visits to Rye Arundel, Chichester & much more! We will be staying at the impressive Imperial Hotel on a tree-lined boulevard running off the seafront with spacious lounges and great customer service!

Simply Magical River Rhine: Delta to Basel Cruise Mon 1st April 2019 9 Days: From £1,649 With 7 included excursions! If this cruise offers you one thing above all others, it is a chance to marvel. At Holland’s impressive tulips, at the beautiful scenery surrounding the famous Lorelei Rock and the delightfully quaint Alsace region. Plus much much more! Also marvel at how quickly you can switch off and leave behind the cares of everyday life. We will be aboard the 5 star MS Inspire boat, which feels like a floating premium hotel and this is also a full board tour.

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Other jobs Shred your Christmas tree and add it to compost bins. Alternatively the stripped down branches make great pea sticks. Hang fat balls and keep bird feeders topped up to attract birds, who will in turn eat pests in your garden. Get rid of slimy patches on the patio, and paving by

Don't let your vegetable plot stand empty and neglected over winter. There are plenty of winter vegetables to grow throughout the coldest months.

Continue planting trees and shrubs while they are still dormant. Keep an eye on fruits and vegetables in storage and remove any that are diseased. Check Dahlia tubers in storage and remove any that are showing signs of rotting.

Garden

CYCLAMEN are winter heroes that can be brought to flower from autumn to spring. The flowers come in red, pink and white shades and look fantastic in pots or planted under trees.

Vegetables

scrubbing with a broom or blasting with a pressure washer.

The winter m Garlic is native to Central Asia and northeastern Iran.

Onions & Garlic Some varieties of onions, such as ‘Setton’, can be sown under glass in January and February, to provide harvests from late summer. However, you can sow in December to give them a head start, resulting in bigger bulbs. Viable garlic seeds are tricky to source, but you can plant young bulbs outdoors.

Most winter vegetable plants are fully hardy and will cope well with cold winter weather, but if hard frosts threaten then you can always throw some fleece across them to provide some extra protection.

Aubergine This semi-tropical plant is best grown under glass. Sow January-March under glass at 15 - 20ºC (60 - 68ºF), limit number of fruits per plant to 3 or 4.

Herbs

Aubergines are an excellent source of dietary fibre. They are also a good source of vitamins B1 and B6 and potassium. They are also rich in antioxidants.

Herbs such as Basil, Dill, Chives and Parsley can be sown indoors on your windowsill for winter use.

Cauliflower May be used for early sowing under cloches. A good source of vitamin C. Ideal for slimmers as it's low in calories! Delicious with a cheese sauce. Protect cauliflower heads from poor weather by folding over a large leaf.


Flower Garden Here is a short list of gardening tasks for flowers during January. Prune rose bushes now whilst they are dormant. Cut back to just above a bud and remove any crossing or dead branches.

Cut back damaged, diseased and the oldest stems of brightly coloured willows, and thin overcrowded stems. Prune your Wisteria plant now, cutting back summer side-shoots to 2 or 3 buds.

Cut back the old foliage from ornamental grasses before growth begins - clip them to within a few centimetres of the ground.

If you'd like to grow early peas, place a cloche over the soil to let it warm up for a few weeks prior to sowing. Start chitting (sprouting) early potatoes - stand them on end in a module tray or egg box and place in a bright cool frost-free place. If your greenhouse is unheated, protect your potato grow bags with horticultural fleece on cold nights.

months

Remove yellowing leaves from your winter brassicas as they are no use to the plant and may harbour pests and diseases.

Winter jobs Winter can feel like a gloomy time in the garden. The flowers of high summer are a distant memory, the rain is here to stay and the change of the clocks has put paid to any hope of working in the evenings. However, there is still much to be done. Here are some ideas to keep you busy and lay the foundation for a great spring and summer next year.

Dead-head autumnflowering plants and prune summer-flowering shrubs before the first frosts. Check structures are stable and if they aren’t then mend them now before high winds and snow do more serious damage.

Protect plants Add cloches to winter salads to protect them from the weather and pests and wrap pots of half-hardy plants in bubble wrap or fleece. Bring tender plants indoors or put them in a greenhouse.

Keep off the grass Although grass is evergreen it is dormant in winter, so avoid walking on it or you will damage it fairly easily.

Here is a short list of vegetable gardening tasks for January. Harvest parsnips and leeks.

View Clear up and shore up

Vegetable Garden

You can start growing potatoes in containers under cover for a very early crop (Charlotte potatoes are a good variety for this). Potato Patio Planters are ideal for growing early potatoes in small spaces.

If you must walk on it, pop a plank down temporarily so that your weight is spread more evenly.

Look after wildlife Birds will appreciate nuts, seeds and fat balls left out for them this winter. Remember to freshen up water regularly and ensure it doesn’t freeze over.

Winter Pansies Remove any faded flowers from your winter pansies to stop them setting seed.

Sedum Cut down the old stems of perennial plants like Sedum - be careful of any new growth.

Add compost or well-rotted manure to your beds now for healthier plants next year.


Vantage Introducing the new

The successor to a true sporting dynasty

Vantage. An evocative name for a bloodline of thoroughbred sports cars. For seven decades the heartbeat of Aston Martin’s purest models, the Vantage nameplate has been worn by some true icons. We met the team at H.R. Owen Aston Martin Reading to try the latest. First used in 1951 on a high-output engine option for the DB2, Vantage was quickly established as a model in its own right. Highlights include the William Towns-designed V8 Vantage, spectacular twin-supercharged V600 Le Mans and the much-loved V8 Vantage. Today this formidable sporting dynasty is poised to hit new heights with the introduction of the new Vantage. We headed to H.R. Owen Aston Martin Reading, located in the leafy and historic town of Pangbourne, to put this latest Aston Martin icon through its paces. The team from H.R. Owen are extremely well

40

versed in this end of the market, as the UK's largest luxury automotive dealer group. H.R. Owen also looks after Bugatti, Rolls-Royce, Ferrari, Bentley, Maserati, Lamborghini and more, helping to ensure the customer experience is just as perfect as the cars. Aerodynamic performance was central to the Vantage design


concept: the front splitter directs airflow underneath the car, where a system of fences channels cooling air where it is needed, and ensures the rear diffuser is fed with clean airflow. The design of the diffuser creates an area of low-pressure air, while simultaneously preventing turbulence generated by the rear wheels from disrupting the flow of air exiting centrally from beneath the rear of the car. Together with the new side gills, which have been integrated into the body surface and bleed air pressure out from the front wheel arches, and the pronounced upswept rear deck lid, the Vantage generates a significant level of downforce - a rarity on any production car and a first for a core production Aston Martin model.

Engine

The heart of the Vantage is Aston Martin’s potent new alloy, 4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine. Set low and as far back in the chassis as possible for optimal centreof-gravity and perfect 50:50 weight distribution, this high performance, high efficiency engine returns a CO2 figure of 236g/km yet develops 510PS at 6000rpm and 685Nm from 2000-5000rpm. With a dry weight of 1530kg this gives the Vantage formidable power-to-weight and torque-to-weight ratios - something vividly

demonstrated whenever the throttle is squeezed. Detailed tuning of the induction, exhaust and engine management systems has given the Vantage a truly intoxicating character and soundtrack.

cent of the structure’s components are new for Vantage. Balance, strength, rigidity and weight efficiency were all priorities in the new Vantage design, as was handling purity and consistency.

The Vantage deploys its impressive power and torque to the rear wheels via a rear-mounted ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. Capable of accelerating from 0 to 60mph in 3.5 seconds and on to a maximum speed of 195mph, it employs a sophisticated suite of integrated electronic systems to offer maximum control and driver enjoyment. These include Dynamic Stability Control and Dynamic Torque Vectoring. The speed-dependent electric power steering has 2.4 turns lock-tolock for an outstanding combination of responsiveness and precise, intuitive control.

Craftsmanship

Differential

For the first time on an Aston Martin the new Vantage also features an Electronic Rear Differential (E-Diff). This differential is linked to the car’s electronic stability control system, so it can understand the car’s behaviour, and react accordingly to direct the engine’s power to the relevant wheel.

Being an Aston Martin, the new Vantage also features a high level of craftsmanship, evidenced by flawless paintwork, luxurious Alcantara® and leather upholstery and the levels of finish optimised using tactile natural materials of the highest quality. There is also extensive scope for personalisation via a generous choice of options. These include forged alloy wheels in a variety of finishes, Sports Plus Collection (comprising Sports Plus seats and Sports steering wheel), carbon fibre interior and exterior detailing and a Premium Audio System. Aston Martin President Chief Executive Officer, Dr Andy Palmer said: “It speaks volumes for the outgoing Vantage that it is the single most successful model in Aston Martin’s history. Creating a worthy successor has been a challenge to relish and a huge source of motivation. I’m enormously excited by what we’ve created: a new Vantage that’s more explicit in looks and intent, wrapping heart-pounding performance and dazzling dynamics into an everyday usable package. A true sports car with a sharper look and a keener dynamic edge, the new Vantage is the Aston Martin pure driving machine enthusiasts have been waiting for.”

Aston Martin DPS Chassis

The chassis is an evolution of the latest generation bonded aluminium structure first seen on the DB11, though some 70 per

41


5

Steps to prepare your car for winter

Plummeting temperatures and poor weather mean the number of breakdowns are likely to increase throughout the winter months. So before the worst winter weather takes hold, here are our top tips for basic motor maintenance that will see you through to spring.

4. Prepare for longer journeys

1. Get your car serviced

5. Carry a winter car breakdown kit

If your car is due a service, get it done before the winter.

2. Top up engine coolant with antifreeze

Engine coolant should be a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze.

3. Check the condition of your tyres As a car’s tyres are key to both steering and braking, it is essential they are in good condition. It is recommended a minimum of 3mm depth during the winter.

Before setting off on a longer journey, check the weather forecast, travel news and safest routes. Also, allow extra journey time to avoid having to rush. Clear all windows of snow and ice using a scraper and de-icer, and ensure you have antifreeze in your car.

This should include a shovel, torch, blanket, hi-visibility vest, screenwash, food and drink supplies, scraper and de-icer and snow grips for your shoes in case you need to walk to safety. Don't forget a fully charged mobile phone.

At Nissan Newbury, we have fantastic offers available on a range of quality new and pre-owned Nissan vehicles. Our friendly team are happy to assist in finding you the perfect vehicle, we look forward to welcoming you to our centre soon.

MOTORLINE NISSAN NEWBURY Newbury Motor Park, Pinchington Lane, Newbury RG14 7HT 01635 911 873 WWW.MOTORLINE.CO.UK/NISSAN


Jubilee Cadets provides a safe, fun and caring environment for children to enjoy their school holidays!

Happy, healthy children play outdoors, Jubilee Cadets, is our woodland based holiday club giving 5 to 11-year-olds the freedom to play in the natural world. From woodland arts and crafts and building dens to exciting team games - it’s the

best way for children to spend their school holidays!

Book online for February half term at:

www.jubileecadets.co.uk Open Monday to Friday, 8.00am-6.00pm during West Berkshire school holidays, with a range of sessions to suit your needs. Operated by Jubilee Gems, we are based in the rural village of Padworth, located between Newbury, Reading and Basingstoke. Tel: 0118 970 1300 Email: info@jubileecadets.co.uk Facebook:@jubileecadets



Unique Nurturing Experience In September 2019 Horris Hill will be offering its unique nurturing and academic experience from Reception upwards. The School will welcome boys from 4 to 13 years of age with day boys populating the younger years and the ability to board from Year 4 and upwards. With the advent of changes to senior school pre-testing, it has become beneficial for a boy to start his Horris Hill educational journey at a younger age, in order for him to develop as an individual and be adequately prepared for the competitive 13+ entry process. We believe that the period from 4 - 13 years of age are the most critical in any boy’s life. Horris Hill is a very special place to be. Nestled in its own 80-acre estate with outstanding facilities; boys can exercise their intellectual inquisitiveness, free to explore all avenues, building selfconfidence and awareness in a safe and encouraging environment. Horris Hill has a long tradition of educating boys and offers the gold standard in boys’ preparatory education. The school's emphasis is on the development of the whole boy, without compromising the 130 year record of academic excellence. In 2017 and 2018 all senior boys gained entry into their chosen senior school with remarkable scholarship

successes including academic awards to Winchester, Eton and Marlborough, an outstanding talent award to Harrow, sports awards to Millfield, Charterhouse and Sherborne and drama to Milton Abbey and St Edward’s Oxford. This demonstrates the breadth of excellence and the capability of the school to deliver across the spectrum within a nurturing and pastorally guided approach. We are now able to offer the benefits of this exceptional education to a wider age group. We will ensure that key reading, writing and handwriting skills, as well as manners and communication skills, are embedded during the formative early

years. From age 4 every boy will also enjoy a rich tapestry of extra-curricular activity. They will have access to specialist music, drama, art and sport teaching and will benefit from first-class facilities and extensive countryside grounds in which they will also enjoy outdoor learning, kitchen gardening and bushcraft.

To see for yourself what a difference a Horris Hill education could make for your son, please come and visit us. Simply email the Registrar Lisa Lee-Smith at registrar@horrishill.com to arrange an appointment. We look forward to welcoming you to Horris Hill.

OPENING SEPTEMBER 2019

DOES YOUR CHILD START SCHOOL IN SEPTEMBER 2019? Highwood Copse Primary School is the brand new, purpose built primary school, opening in 2019 at Monks Lane in Newbury. We are accepting applications now for Nursery (ages 3-4) and Reception (ages 4-5) years. Visit our website or Facebook page for regular updates and news of information events. www.highwoodcopse.co.uk

NEXT INFORMAT ION EVENT 10 JAN 20 19

OPEN EVENING

ASK A B HELP OUT WIT TRAV H EL COST S

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Is your New Year’s resolution to give something back to your local community? Winchester-based hospices for children and young adults, Naomi House & Jacksplace, is looking for a variety of volunteers in 2019. If you would like to get involved or want to learn more, carry on reading…

Naomi House

Full of Noise, Love and Laughter Naomi House opened in 1997 following a campaign by the local community to raise the £5 million needed to build the hospice and cover running costs for one year. Each year, the hospice pays a rent of 12 red roses to the CorneliusReid family. Traditionally this was paid to Mary Cornelius-Reid, who generously offered the Trust the land on which the hospice is built, but they now pay the rent to Mary’s youngest daughter, Naomi, after whom the hospice was named. Since opening, Naomi House & Jacksplace has cared for 1,144 life limited and life threatened children and young adults. It is thanks to the communities across the South, including the Berkshire and Hampshire regions,

that the service has developed and provided the support that families need on good days, difficult days and last days. The charity offers a unique and vital service, allowing families to take advantage of much needed respite, emergency, end of life and postbereavement care. Naomi House is full of noise, love and laughter, with nursing staff providing individualised nursing care that helps to enhance short lives and allows families to make the most of their precious time together. Jacksplace is a specialist hospice that cares for teenagers and young adults aged 16 to 35. Along with a broad range of facilities, including music therapy, computers, multi-sensory play rooms and two bereavement suites, Naomi House & Jacksplace has the largest Practice Education team in the country. The charity would not be able to provide this incredible care without the continued support from volunteers. In 2019, Naomi House & Jacksplace is

asking anyone that can spare the time, to volunteer and help support local seriously ill children and young adults. Volunteering opportunities include working in one of the 23 charity shops one day a week, working in the warehouse one day a week and volunteering in the hospices in Sutton Scotney, either on reception, in the kitchens with the hospices’ talented catering team, on the care floor with the children and young adults or in an administrative role. You could also volunteer at one of the many events the charity hosts throughout the year, helping with marshalling, cheering or general organisation. The charity is also looking for Ambassadors, based in the Newbury area, who would be confident to represent Naomi House & Jacksplace within the community and be an advocate for the vital care the hospices offer to local families. Full training will be provided and regular updates are offered to all ambassadors throughout the year.

If you would like to volunteer for Naomi House & Jacksplace, please visit: www.naomihouse.org.uk/volunteer or email volunteering@naomihouse.org.uk.

47


FREE Business Networking

Join BuzzConnect in 2019 Book now for these events:

Are you a start-up, small or medium business? Make sure you take advantage of these events. EVERY MONTH

Regular FREE Business Networking Event at Metro Bank, Newbury Every first Thursday of the month 8.30am – 10.00am

Please register via www.buzz-connect.co.uk

JANUARY : THURSDAY 17TH Guest Speakers (Nigel Roberts Green - Donnington Grove Hotel) Digital Marketing Ideas For 2019 (Michael Gbadebo - Local Buzz) at Donnington Grove Hotel - 5.30pm -7.00pm APRIL : THURSDAY 18TH Guest Speakers Making confident hiring decisions and coping with challenges that lead to positive outcomes (Abi Brown - Openingz) 2019 New Tax Year (Andrew Street - Andrew Street Wealth Management Ltd) at Donnington Grove Hotel - 5.30pm -7.00pm JUNE : THURSDAY 20TH #TheBigPitch 2019 JULY : THURSDAY 18TH Guest Speaker (Lindsay Heath - Intuitive Giraffe) at Donnington Grove Hotel - 5.30pm -7.00pm SEPTEMBER : THURSDAY 19TH #TheBigEvent 2019 at Donnington Grove Hotel - 4.30pm-9pm

www.buzz-connect.co.uk 48

OCTOBER : THURSDAY 17TH Guest Speaker Employment Law Update (Julie Taylor - Gardner Leader) at Donnington Grove Hotel - 5.30pm -7.00pm


Join us today! 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

Effective networking 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.

which covers our immediate costs with proceeds going towards our chosen charity. This year we have partnered with Colostomy UK.

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.

BuzzConnect Business networking is evolving, and it will continue to grow for years to come. 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.

Our monthly networking at Metro Bank is hugely popular and will always be free. However, our evening events have a small charge

We look forward to welcoming you to our events this year, contact us if you have any questions.

More events. . .

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

METRO BANK

Every 1st Thursday of the month 8.30am - 10.00am

DONNINGTON GROVE HOTEL

Dates for 2019

Thurs 17th January Thurs 18th April 18th July & 17th October

What are the benefits of joining BuzzConnect? RAISE your profile.  BUILD a local network of suppliers and customers.  COLLABORATE with other local businesses.   DEVELOP business and leadership skills. BE PART of a community that represents you. 

By attending a BuzzConnect event you are also supporting

www.buzz-connect.co.uk

BUZZCONNECT AMBASSADORS

localbuzzmagazine.com

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49


Fresh start for 2019

www.yourequityreleaseoptions.co.uk

With the New Year many of us take stock and review our lives.

Sadly for some, this can mean making a New Year’s resolution to get a divorce. If this is the case for you, your first port of call should be to get some legal advice from one of our Family Law solicitors. We will listen to your concerns and discuss your options, letting you know what your rights are, as well as those of your former partner. Our objective is to help you as quickly and effectively as possible with the best outcomes for you and your family. Whatever the issue you face this New Year, we can help you and your family find a way forward.

To find out more about our Divorce or Separation Legal Services or to arrange a meeting with one of our divorce solicitors, call Hayley Eachus on 01256 854633 or email hayley.eachus@phillips-law.co.uk

Alternatively www.phillips-law.co.uk/family At Phillips we have a modern and forward thinking approach, where our legal experts are committed to giving you the very best advice and exceptional service. SERVICES FOR YOU:

BUSINESS SERVICES:

Residential Property

Corporate Law

Employment Law

Commercial Law

Wills & Probate

Commercial Property

Family Law

Employment Law

Dispute Resolution

Dispute Resolution

Mediation

Succession Planning

New Year – New options, what are yours? If you would like to know more about releasing equity from your home, give Carol a call on 01635 550179 Carol advised on the best course of action, and outlined options available. She was persistent in chasing the equity company to fulfil their obligations, and she was always happy to go above and beyond when needed.

To book your free meeting call Carol on:

01256 460830

01635 550 179

Phillips Solicitors Ltd Town Gate . 38 London Street . Basingstoke Hampshire . RG21 7NY

A lifetime mortgage will be secured against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

www.phillips-law.co.uk . legal@phillips-law.co.uk

50

Carol Brown Senior Mortgage Consultant


Savings explained: what different savings accounts are there? Navigating the variety of savings accounts available to you can be time-consuming and confusing. From easy access (also known as instant access) to fixed rate bonds, it can be difficult to know which one is going to help you meet your savings goal. The good news is we are here to help; below, we’ve broken down the different types of savings account on offer and explain what this means for you and your money. For those looking for complete freedom: easy access accounts Easy access savings accounts do what they say on the tin: they allow you to access your money at any time and provide the highest level of flexibility. You can touch your money as much as you like and usually do not incur any fee for doing so. This does, however, mean you should expect a slightly lower rate of interest than what you would get for limited access and fixed rate accounts. If you’re looking for an easy access account, take a look at our Welcome to Newbury product. Available to open online and in branch, our flagship savings account is designed for those who haven’t opened an account with us in the past six months. With a minimum opening balance of £50, you can deposit up to £3000 and after a year, you have the opportunity to move to an Existing Members account. For those looking to save for a specific reason: restricted access accounts Also known as ‘regular savings account’ or ‘monthly savers’, restricted access requires you to deposit a certain amount each month with limited withdrawals per year. In return, you are usually given a higher interest rate than you’d get with an easy access account. Such an account is great for those who don’t want to invest a huge lump sum in one go but would like to make their money work harder; ideal for those looking to get into a regular savings habit. It is also an effective way to save for a specific reason such as a house deposit, for example. Our Home Saver savings account does just that and is perfect for those with a specific savings goal in mind. This means that once your money has been deposited, it is locked away until you need it. You also have to deposit anything from £10 - £500 on a monthly basis to keep the account activated so a regular savings habit is required. It may sound like a big commitment but don’t worry, you can access your cash twice a year in case of an emergency.

The rule of thumb is the longer you are willing to lock your money away, the higher your return will be. However, by doing so, you give up the right to access your money for the agreed timeframe. You might be allowed to withdraw your funds in an emergency, however, be prepared to pay a hefty fee. If you’re confident you won’t need the pot of cash, this is a good option for you. For those looking for tax efficient savings: ISA Individual Savings Accounts (ISA) can be one of the best ways to make the most out of your money. The interest is free from tax, so all the interest you earn, you keep. There’s a limit to how much cash you can deposit into your ISA. Currently, the limit is set at £20,000 and it is expected to stay the same for 2019-20 and don’t forget, you can only open one ISA per tax year. For under-18s: children’s accounts Children’s savings accounts are more or less the same as ‘adult’ ones on the market and tend to be open access. Our Young Saver savings account is a great starting point to encourage children to learn and manage money; great for increasing their overall financial awareness. It is easy access and can be opened with just £1. Remember: when you are researching savings accounts, check the terms and conditions as some may be postcode restricted. This means if you live outside of the operating area stated you won’t be able to open an account. If you have any questions about our savings accounts or would like to open one with us, pop in to your local branch or contact us by using our online form and one of our qualified savings advisers will be in touch. Newbury branch: 105b Northbrook Street, Newbury, RG14 1AA call: 01635 522588 or email: newbury@newbury.co.uk. Thatcham branch: 4 High Street, Thatcham, RG19 3JD call: 01635 864996 or email: thatcham@newbury.co.uk. Hungerford branch: 127 High Street, Hungerford, RG17 0DL call: 01488 684705 or email: hungerford@newbury.co.uk. Basingstoke branch: 5-6 Chelsea House, Festival Place, Basingstoke, RG21 7JR call: 01256 816813 or email: basingstoke@newbury.co.uk.

For those with a long term savings goal: fixed rate account Fixed-rate bonds tie up your nest egg for a specific length of time while your fixed rate interest is accumulated. Such savings accounts can extend over one and two years with some banks and building societies also offering three, four and five year fixed bonds.

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). 7356

41

Newbury Building Society


Brakes, Shocks & Exhausts n Wheel Laser Alignment MOT Preparation n Car Servicing Used Tyres n New Tyres

01635 550202 www.newburyautostop.co.uk Unit 6 Freemans Yard

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MS181 CHAINSAW Perfect for small trees & firewood • Comes with 14” bar • Tool-free filler caps • Anti-vibration system

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RE109 PRESSURE WASHER • Anti-twist couplings • 6m high pressure hose • Rotary and fan jet nozzles

£190 SPECIAL OFFER Exc. VAT

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www.farolmowers.co.uk Rycote Lane Farm, Milton Common, Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 2NZ

Coldridge Copse, Shefford Woodlands, Hungerford, Berkshire, RG17 7BP

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*Terms & conditions apply. While stocks last. E&EO.

52


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Kennet Radio - The Local Sound of Newbury and Thatcham

Your only truly local radio station, broadcasting 24/7 to Newbury and Thatcham from our studio in central Newbury. Staffed entirely by volunteers, we are looking for more people to get involved, both as presenters and behind the scenes. Interested? Get in touch – there’s always lots to do! Local business need local customers. Advertising your business on Kennet Radio is great value - for details, call Neil on 01635 780 880 or email sales@kennetradio.com.

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53


Business Directory . Call 01635 200 006

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Would you like to be walking on air again? Then look no further.

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WE TREAT: Corns, callus . Nail problems including thickened and fungal nails . Skin conditions of the foot . Diabetic foot care . Verrucae including swift treatment - the highest success treatment available! 07379 904833 . Louise@westberkshirefootclinic.co.uk www.westberkshirefootclinic.co.uk Find me on:

Total Health West Berkshire . Lower Henwick Farm . Turnpike Rd . Thatcham . RG18 3AP


Are you a male or female who sometimes feels anxious stressed worried but doesn’t know why? Would like to control the way you feel but doesn’t know how? We can Help Teaching you the simple but immensely effective Techniques of Cognitive therapy and NLP A problem is only a problem if it’s a problem to you we make it NO LONGER A PROBLEM!

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J.S Fencing & Landscaping All types of garden fencing and landscape construction. 30 years experience No job too big or small Please contact Jason on M: 07810 794171 . T : 01635 269280

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Don’t miss Berkshire’s largest business networking event!

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BIGGEST BUSINESS EXHIBITION

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Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) Social Media Marketing Web Design & Development Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Content / Email Marketing Community Building

Join Buzzibility workshops

Go to www.digitalmarketingberkshire.com to register and learn new trends to bring you more business in 2019.

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