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8 Your Local Buzz 10 Community Support 15 Taste of France 17 Dr. Greger - If fructose is Bad what

about fruit?

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28 7 old-fashioned ideas for Father's Day! 30 Creating a dedicated space for Dad! 32 Turn your back garden into a Beer garden 38 Cashflow Planning without a crisis 40 Oh The Simple things in Life ... 41 Local Independent Optometrist 51 Buzz Connect 54 Services

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18 Non-cook Strawberry Cheesecake 20 Avocado and Poached Egg on Toast 21 Seasonal Food 22 How to Look after your Mental Health

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Local theatre school offers online platform to support students The closure of schools across the UK is having a huge impact on families. The disruption to daily life is simply unprecedented and the cost in terms of both physical and mental health and wellbeing is unknown. Razzamataz Newbury and Reading are part of a large franchise that has been working with children for the last twenty years and understands that performing arts can be crucial in helping young people to make sense of the world, especially important in today’s challenging climate. With the onslaught of COVID-19, Razzamataz made the difficult decision to close all schools but not close classes or opportunities for their thousands of students. “This is a very confusing time for children and exceptionally challenging for families trying to maintain some sort of structure,” explains Debbi Ledwith, Principal of Razzamataz Newbury and Reading. “We get hundreds of testimonials from students and their families to say that Razzamataz is the highlight of their week so we have thought long and hard about how we can keep our families and their communities safe and still deliver the service to children that they love.” Razzamataz has now gone online, until the Government gives the go-ahead to allow schools back. As well as the regular classes, there will be some special additional opportunities including fitness classes that parents can join in with too.

As well as all the free social content, Razzamataz has been working tirelessly to produce an online platform so students can access their performing arts lessons in small virtual groups. Classes start from as little as £12 per month and will be taught by inspiring and highly experienced teachers who will be able to tailor their feedback, ensuring that each student reaches their potential in their virtual lesson. It will replicate a real class as much as possible, with dedicated time throughout so children can ask questions to teachers, connect with their classmates and become confident performers on screen. For parents, there is a pay as you go option, with no monthly commitment or direct debit so families can dip in and out depending on their circumstances. The classes are open to existing and new students. “As well as all of our existing classes, we will be supporting our friends in the performing arts industry by hosting several masterclasses with professional performers,” adds Debbi. “We often have masterclasses in our school and now it is even more important to reach out to provide opportunities for all the professional performers who are finding themselves in very difficult positions with so many shows being put on hold. We know our students find these workshops really inspiring and it’s wonderful way to bring the best of the West End musical theatre and commercial genres to our students.” These will be announced in due course.

With many years of experience, Razzamataz is going to be utilising all of their contacts in the industry to maintain the standards for students across schools. “We need to reach out to our families and young people to protect their emotional and physical wellbeing,” adds Debbi. “We believe that taking our classes online will give children some stability and allow them to continue to enjoy their performing arts. By participating in our online classes, they can maintain their close connections with their Razzamataz family, be physically active and be challenged mentally too.” The first guest workshop was with Brian Costello from Headstrong who is a coach and motivational speaker. Brian has already worked with our students, Principals and staff across the network and he went LIVE on Facebook @ RTSLtd to talk to our community about how to cope with isolation. The classes will take place via Zoom and be kept very small so they can be as interactive as possible. There will be small charge of just a few pounds a class to cover expenses. There will also be lots of free content, such as the coping with isolation session, offered to the wider community. “We want to do our bit to help families get their children moving and inject a bit of happiness into everyone’s lives,” adds Debbi. It’s a horrible and scary time for everyone but we hope that we can bring a little joy, structure and fitness challenges in these difficult times. We want to get everyone moving, singing and just bring a little light relief and reach out to as many people as possible. We’ve already been contacted by parents who don’t have children currently in our schools but who are desperately looking at ways they can be engaged in small class sizes and actively learn.”

To sign up to your local class for a free online lesson, contact Debbi on newbury@razzamataz.co.uk or reading@razzamataz.co.uk

15 7

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1st of July

Financial support for residents, communities and local businesses during COVID-19 outbreak Financial measures benefitting over 70,000 households and an estimated 1,600 local businesses have been put in place by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council to offer support during the COVID-19 outbreak. All 70,500 households across the borough are automatically receiving a council tax payment holiday in April and May 2020, with council tax bills being issued in coming weeks to confirm payments will resume from June 2020 for 10 months. Working-age residents eligible for the Council Tax Reduction Scheme have also had their council tax bill reduced by up to an additional £200, supporting a further 1,400 households. Offering particular support to the borough’s most vulnerable residents, the council has awarded £200,000 to Basingstoke Voluntary Action, enabling it to provide grants to community groups so that they can provide support and distribute essential supplies to residents unable to leave their homes. Following the announcement of financial support by the government, the council is also supporting eligible local businesses through a combination of business rates relief and grants. Leisure, retail and hospitality businesses, as well as early years providers, estate agents, letting agencies and bingo halls, will not pay business rates in the 2020/21 financial year, supporting an estimated 820 local businesses at an additional cost of around £31 million. Grants of £10,000 and £25,000 have also been made accessible to an estimated 1,600 eligible local businesses at a cost of almost £21 million. So far, grants totalling over £16 million have been paid to over 1,200 eligible 8

businesses. To further boost the available financial support for businesses, the council has made a three-month rent and service charge holiday available for all 344 small businesses in council-owned properties with annual rents of up to £50,000. Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Leader Cllr Ken Rhatigan said: “I am delighted that we have been able to make this significant level of financial support available during this uncertain time. “These vital measures

will benefit all households in our borough, help our most vulnerable residents to access essential supplies, such as food and medicine and provide support for local employers to help protect people’s jobs for the future.” For more information about further support for residents, communities and businesses, visit www.basingstoke.gov. uk/coronavirus.

Connect to support Hampshire Connect to Support Hampshire is a website for adults in Hampshire. Its aim is to help you stay independent and to manage your own care. You can find local groups, activities and services within your community as well as formal care services. Connect to Support Hampshire is now available as a mobile app meaning you can access all the information, advice and services you need, wherever you are, 24/7 - even when you have no internet access! To download the app, simply search for ‘Connect to Support Hampshire’ in the App Store. Get the app today. It’s free!

LOCAL BUZZ

Local

Issues Let’s start a tree nursery for a ‘lockdown wood’ Friends of the Earth, Newbury, invite you and your family to help increase the number of trees in West Berkshire even while the whole country is in lockdown? If you would like to contribute to the greening of our district, plus get your family involved in looking after baby trees, just start here! Gardening and tending our allotments is allowed during the lockdown period, as it offers fresh air and exercise and the promise of lovely home-grown veg. So while you’re weeding, how about potting up any tree seedling you come across rather than composting them. You probably have loads of old pots, so just pop any tree seedlings you find into a pot with garden soil, and keep them watered until they can be planted out. Label them if you can identify them (look to see what mature trees are nearby, check online for leaf shapes). Put the pots in a partially shaded part of your garden if possible and enjoy watching them grow. There are some tree species which wouldn’t be suitable for planting out or are very susceptible to disease, so please don’t collect sycamore or horse chestnut babies.When this coronavirus pandemic is over, we hope to get a group of people interested in tending a small tree nursery, where our little charges can grow on until they are sturdy enough to be planted out around the district. Do let us know if you would like to get involved in this, or know of a small plot of land which might be suitable. A corner of a garden or an underutilised allotment might work. Let’s help reducing climate chaos by growing beautiful trees! Links to tree identification and information: www. woodlandtrust.org.uk/ @friendsoftheearth

Residents urged to stay at home following flytipping at bring banks The government’s instructions to residents were to only leave their homes for essential journeys to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, yet the council and its waste contractor Serco has recorded an increase of fly-tipping incidents at its sites across the borough. The bin crews are working hard to maintain a weekly waste and fortnightly recycling kerbside collection, while following government guidance to ensure the safety of residents and staff. Clearing these fly-tips is placing further pressure on the teams during these challenging times. Cabinet Member for Environment and Enforcement Cllr Hayley Eachus said: “Fly-tipping is illegal and we take a very strong stance on this but, more importantly, at this time people should not be leaving their homes for non-essential journeys. Residents are fortunate to have a weekly waste collection in Basingstoke and Deane and our crews are doing all they can to maintain this during this very difficult time. The county council’s Household Waste and Recycling Centre has closed People must to follow the Government’s instructions and stay at home and store these items until it is safe to clear them correctly. Please do not put extra rubbish out for your bin collections, our crews will only collect what is in your grey bin as normal.” Residents can help keep themselves and the council’s bin crews safe by washing their hands before and after putting their bins out and collecting them. They should also wipe bin handles where possible. The bin crews do wear gloves as part of their standard equipment but touch many bins every day, these actions will reduce the risk of spreading the virus. For more information on how to recycle more while at home visit www. basingstoke.gov.uk/recycling

Kit Malthouse MP

Coronavirus update Over the last few weeks of this terrible Coronavirus crisis, our lives have become dominated by numbers. Every evening the terrible death toll is revealed and we all look for hope amongst the graphs of hospital admissions and infection rates. For me, there have also been a blizzard of other numbers, telephone conference calls, Zoom online meeting codes and the Skype passes which have filled my days from dawn till dusk. The work of an MP never stops, and this has been especially true during this crisis, as the email inbox has filled every day with distressed constituents looking for answers. My team and I have worked flat out seven days a week to answer everyone as best we can, from those with relatives caught abroad on holiday and small businesses forced to close, to those shielding because of their serious condition. My duties as Minister for Policing and Justice have also continued. Happily we have been able to continue recruitment of the new 20,000 officers with online training and we reached 3,005 at the end of March, a huge achievement in the circumstances. More locally, unable to romp about our beautiful part of the world as I normally do, I’ve been connecting with people through my video podcasts, available to view on Facebook and my website, or download by searching for “The Maltcast”. From volunteers like Joanna and Sarah, to the local police chief and Veterans in Action, it’s been great to see their dedication. I hope that as we emerge from this terrible time, as we mourn for those who have lost their lives, we can preserve what has been the very best of us. Kit Malthouse MP and Minister for policing and crime. 9

Support

#KIND20

The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak means that life is changing for all of us for a while. It may cause you to feel anxious, stressed, worried, sad, bored, lonely or frustrated.

1. Stay connected with people Maintaining healthy relationships with people we trust is important for our mental wellbeing, so think about how you can stay in touch with friends and family while needing to stay at home. You could try phone calls, video calls or social media instead of meeting in person – whether it's with people you normally see often or connecting with old friends.

It's important to remember it is OK to feel this way and that everyone reacts differently. Remember, this situation is temporary and for most of us, these difficult feelings will pass. There are some simple things you can do to help you take care of your mental health and wellbeing during times of uncertainty. Doing so will help you think clearly and make sure you are able to look after yourself and those you care about. Here are 10 ways you can help improve your mental health and wellbeing if you are worried or anxious about the coronavirus outbreak. For specific tips and advice while staying at home, read our advice on maintaining your mental wellbeing while staying at home. It is important to follow the latest official guidance on staying at home and away from others to keep everyone safe. 10

Talk about your worries It's normal to feel a bit worried, scared or helpless about the current situation. Remember: it is OK to share your concerns with others you trust – and doing so may help them too. If you cannot speak to someone you know or if doing so has not helped, there are plenty of helplines you can try instead.

3. Support and help others

Helping someone else can benefit you as well as them, so try to be a little more understanding of

other people's concerns, worries or behaviours at this time. Try to think of things you can do to help those around you. Is there a friend or family member nearby you could message? Are there any community groups you could join to support others locally? Remember, it is important to do this in line with official coronavirus guidance to keep everyone safe.

prepared 4. Feel Working through the implications of staying at home should help you feel more prepared and less concerned. Think through a normal week: how will it be affected and what do you need to do to solve any problems? If you have not already, you might want to talk with your employer, understand your sick pay, benefits rights and get hold of some essentials for while you are at home. You could also think about who you can get help from locally – as well as people you know, lots of local and community help groups are being set up. Try

10 tips to help if you are worried about coronavirus to remember this disruption should only be temporary.

after your body 5. Look Our physical health has a big impact on how we feel. At times like these, it can be easy to fall into unhealthy patterns of behaviour that end up making you feel worse. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, drink enough water and exercise regularly. Avoid smoking, drugs and try not to drink too much alcohol.

6. Stick to the facts

Find a credible source you can trust – such as GOV.UK or the NHS website – and fact-check information you get from newsfeeds, social media or other people.

Stay on top of difficult feelings Concern about the coronavirus outbreak is perfectly normal. However, some people may experience intense anxiety that

Focus on the present Focusing on the present, rather than worrying about the future, can help with difficult emotions and improve our wellbeing. Relaxation techniques can also help some people deal with feelings of anxiety or you could try our mindful breathing video.

Look after your sleep

10. Good-quality sleep makes a

can affect their daily life. Try to focus on the things you can control, such as your behaviour, who you speak to and where and how often you get information. Access more information at www.nhs. uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/ anxiety/

big difference to how we feel mentally and physically, so it is important to get enough. Try to maintain regular sleeping patterns and keep up good sleep hygiene practices – like avoiding screens before bed, cutting back on caffeine and creating a restful environment.

things you enjoy 8. Do If we are feeling worried, anxious or low, we might stop doing things we usually enjoy. Focusing on your favourite hobby, relaxing indoors or connecting with others can help with anxious thoughts and feelings. If you cannot do the things you normally enjoy because you are staying at home, think about how you could adapt them, or try something new. There are lots of free tutorials and courses online.

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The best

free online courses to do during lockdown As Britain settles into lockdown, many people have been furloughed or are working from home amid the coronavirus pandemic.

To help you enjoy your spare time a little more, we’ve rounded up the best free online courses available. Future Learn

Alison

For bright and engaging, hands-on courses Future Learn is perfect. Courses are designed with universities across the globe including King’s College London, University of Oslo and Monash University.

Offers a variety of free course types including certificate, diploma and learning path courses each designed to help inspire you through a new hobby or career path.

The company has more than 400 free short courses for you to get your teeth into including: flight mechanics, understanding ADHD, football: more than a game and sustainable development. Unlike other sites available, Future Learn is more structured with information from your course becoming available week on week. For example, a three week course would include four hours of material each week. Be sure to check that the course you enter is free when you click the ‘read more’ button.

Open University Open Learn With more than 1,000 courses to choose from Open Learn by the Open University has something for everyone. Topics include history, art, politics, languages and the environment to name a few. Some courses include Open University material whilst others are written specifically for Open Learn. However, like most free courses the certification awarded carries no formal credit towards a qualification. Open Learn have three levels to choose from - introductory, intermediate and advanced - allowing you to learn at your own pace.

They offer 14 different course types from languages, IT and business to software engineering, skilled trades and marketing. Courses start at about two hours long. With each completed course Alison awards a certificate of completion however they are not externally accredited so are not widely recognised through academia.

Oxford Home Study Centre The Oxford Home Study Centre offers a wide range of free online courses. These courses are suited to individuals who aim to gain a deeper and wider knowledge of a topic with many course durations starting at 20 hours. There are more than 40 courses to choose from including life coaching, fashion design and interior design.

Reed The jobs and recruitment firm Reed have more than 40 courses to help people get into the job market. Many of the courses last a few weeks with some including a free exam at the end of the course, such as Essential IT Level 2. Courses include: bookkeeping, administration, HR fundamentals, understanding autism and many more.

14 20

Fran ance ce Taste of

France is renowned, globally, for many aspects. From history and architecture, through arts, literature, music, fashions and so much more, there is something to interest all. French wines need little introduction and the cuisine of France is now available around the world. Le Garrick Restaurant is recognised as an ‘institution’. Very popular with theatrical actors and actresses, Le Garrick offers all-day dining, in a venue that has a lot of history. This ‘little piece of France’, in the West End of London, is known for its excellent, regional French food, service and atmosphere. Having a ground floor, with window tables, plus a downstairs restaurant area, with intimate candlelight alcoves, Le Garrick offers character, exceptional dining and splendid cuisine. Being in close proximity to many theatres, pre and post-theatre dining is very popular. The menu is undoubtedly French. Les Entrées has selections that include Scallops and an Assiette de Charcuterie, for example. Boeuf Bourguignon (slow-cooked beef marinated in red wine and served with new potatoes, vegetables and lardons) is extremely popular for a main course – compliments to

chef! Other mains have ‘devotees’ for their succulent Honey-glazed Duck and Fish dishes. Tender Steaks have ‘followers’, too and are served with a choice of sauces, plus French fries. The team of chefs ensure all cuisine is cooked and/or presented to perfection. The complementing flavours of the dishes are outstanding and impress, constantly. Desserts have something for all tastes and Tarte au Citron or a Chocolate creation will certainly not disappoint. Champagne, plus highquality wines/drinks, that are elegant, light, rich and powerful, have something for all palates. Having a good number of theatres within easy distance, this is most certainly a restaurant to consider prior to or after a theatre visit, as well as a venue to return to, when in the area and to make a destination, too. All dietary requirements can be catered for and gift vouchers are available, also. Le Garrick has regular clientele – always a good sign. Booking is advisable, particularly during popular times.

Trevor Langley Wine Appreciator

Green

Gooseberry Jam This wonderfully tart jam goes well with scones and cream or creme fraiche and makes a lovely filling for Victoria sandwich cakes.

Method wash your jam jars in hot soapy 1. First water, then rinse well. Put them into a preheated oven at 160°C/gas 3 until you are ready to use them.

the fruit and water only into a 2. Put large, heavy-based saucepan. Bring

to the boil, then simmer gently until the skins are soft. If you add the sugar the skins will not soften.

3. 4.

Add the sugar and stir over a low heat until it has dissolved completely. Don't boil the jam before the sugar has dissolved or it may crystallise during storage. Once the sugar has dissolved bring the jam to a rapid but steady boil and boil until it reaches a temperature of between 105°C and 110°C.

about 15 minutes your jam 5. After should have become more viscous and clear and you will need to see whether setting point has been reached. This is called the ‘wrinkle test’.

the saucer from the freezer. 6. Remove Take the pan off the heat, spoon a

little jam onto the plate and leave until completely cold. Then push it across the plate with your forefinger. It should wrinkle up if it’s ready. If it only wrinkles slightly, pop the saucer back in the freezer and bring the jam back to the boil and boil for a few more minutes.

Ingredients • 900g Slightly under-ripe gooseberries, topped and tailed

• 900g-1kg Granulated sugar • 600ml water

Makes: 2 jars (approximately) Preparation and cooking time: 1 hour

A cooking thermometer is necessary for this recipe. Also jam jars and a saucer. The saucer should be placed in the freezer to keep it cold.

Skim any scum from the top of the jam and pour it into the prepared jars. Cover the surface of the jam with waxed discs, wax-side down, and either quickly cover each jar with a dampened round of cellophane and rubber band or leave to go cold before covering with cellophane or a screw-top lid. Sealing the jars well prevents the build-up of condensation under the lid, which could lead to mould.

For more, check out my video If Fructose Is Bad, What About Fruit? on NutritionFacts.org.

If Fructose Is Bad,

what about fruit? We’ve been warned about the effects of fructose in sugar and high fructose corn syrup, but what about the source of natural fructose: fruit? Researchers compared the effects of a diet restricting fructose from both added sugars and fruit to one just restricting added sugars; the diet that kept the fruit did better. People lost more weight with the extra fruit present than if all fructose was restricted. Only industrial fructose intake was associated with declining liver function and high blood pressure. Fructose from added sugars was also associated with hypertension; fructose from natural fruits is not. If people drink a glass of water with three tablespoons of table sugar in it, which is like a can of soda, they get a big spike in blood sugar within the first hour. Our body freaks out and releases so much insulin we actually overshoot, and by the second hour we’re relatively hypoglycemic, our blood sugar dropping below where it was when we started. In response, our body dumps fat into our bloodstream in the form of triglycerides as if we’re starving, because our blood sugars just suddenly dropped so low. What if you eat blended berries in addition to the

Dr. Michael Greger M.D. FACLM sugar? They contain sugars of their own; in fact, an additional tablespoon of sugar worth. So, the blood sugar spike should be worse, right? No, not only was there no additional blood sugar spike, there was no hypoglycemic dip afterwards. Blood sugar just went up and down without that overshoot and without the surge of fat into the blood.

availab le digi t all y

Adding berries can actually blunt the insulin spike from high glycemic foods. For example, white bread creates a big insulin spike within two hours after eating it. Eat that same white bread with some berries, though and we’re able to blunt the spike. So, even though we’ve effectively added more sugars with the berries, there’s less of an insulin spike, which has a variety of potential short and long-term benefits. If you’re going to make pancakes, make sure they’re blueberry pancakes. 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.

His latest books: How Not to Die, the How Not to Die Cookbook, and How Not to Diet all 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 17 be donated to charity. 17

No-cook

Strawberry Get the kids to help make this delicious summery tea time treat! Serves: 8-12

Method

Prep: 30 mins plus one hour chilling

time for base and overnight chilling for the cheesecake

For the base: Butter and line

Ingredients

Put the biscuits in a plastic food bag and crush to crumbs using a rolling pin.

Transfer the crumbs to a bowl, and then pour over the melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are coated thoroughly. Tip them into the prepared tin and press firmly down into the base to create an even layer. Chill in the fridge for 1 hr to set firmly. This is important – if the base isn’t set properly it will break up and become mixed with the filling later.

For the filling: Slice the vanilla

Place the soft cheese, icing sugar and vanilla seeds into a bowl, then beat with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the cream and continue beating on a slow-medium speed until the mixture is completely combined.

Base • 250g digestive biscuits • 100g unsalted butter melted

Filling • 1 vanilla pod • 600g soft cheese (Quark or Philadelphia work well) • 100g icing sugar • 284ml pot double cream

Topping • 400g punnet strawberries • 25g icing sugar • 1 tsp water

a 9 inch / 23cm loose-bottomed tin with greaseproof paper.

pod in half lengthways and scrape out the seeds using the back of a kitchen knife.

Spoon this cream mixture on to the biscuit base, working from the edges inwards. Smooth the top of the cheesecake down with the back of a dessert spoon. Leave to set in the fridge overnight.

To serve: Bring the cheesecake to room temperature, about 30 mins before serving. To un-mould, place the base on top of a can, run a round-bladed knife around the edge of the cheesecake first then carefully pull the sides of the tin down. Slip the cake onto a serving plate, removing the lining paper and the base of the tin.

For the topping: Purée half the strawberries in a blender or food processor with 25g icing sugar and 1 tsp water, then sieve to remove the seeds. Pour the puree over the cheesecake and top with the remaining strawberries and more puree.

Cheesecake

Avocado and Poached Egg on Toast

A simple but oh so tasty summery breakfast or light supper

Preparation Time: 10 mins Cooking Time: 10 mins Serves 4

Ingredients

Method

• 4 fresh eggs

• 2 ripe avocados • Juice of one lemon • 1 tsp chilli flakes or 1/2 red chilli, finely chopped • 4 thick slices bread, toasted (sourdough bread is wonderful if you can get it)

Heat a pan of lightly salted water to a simmer. Crack one of the eggs into a cup, then make a whirlpool with a spoon in the water and carefully tip the egg into the water. Repeat with a second egg. Cook each egg for 3-4mins until white is barely set. Remove eggs with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. Bring the water back to a simmer and repeat with remaining eggs.

halve and de-stone 2. Meanwhile, avocados. In a large bowl, roughly mash avocados, lemon juice and chilli. Season to taste. Spread the avocado mixture over the toast, top each serving with an egg and serve immediately.

Cherries Sweet, red cherries will grace us with their presence this June. I like to snack on fresh cherries, but roasting cherries really brings out their inherent sweetness. Roasted or not, they are great with balsamic vinegar, cherry pie, cherries are a great addition to salads, cocktails and desserts.

Intensely sweet, juicy and flavorful, cherries are one of the greatest treats of the season

Avocado

SFOOD easonal

Avocado on toast is almost impossible to beat, but it’s also a fantastic addition Mexican meals and fresh green recipes of any kind.

Cucumber Crisp cucumber is a lovely addition to raw salads. Its vitamin-rich, hydrating qualities make it an excellent juicing ingredient. Peeled, muddled and strained cucumber makes an incredibly refreshing cocktail. Cucumber water is a treat—just soak cucumber and lemon slices in a pitcher of water.

Summer is almost here! Can you feel it? I can’t wait for the sun to bust through these clouds for good. The sight of fresh cherries, blueberries and strawberries are giving me hope that the season of sunshine is near.

Blueberry Those plump little berries are packed full of antioxidants. Blueberries pair marvelously with lemon flavor (juice and zest). desserts, baked goods and salads!

Beets Beets are tremendously earthy and can be eaten fresh, cooked or roasted. Some, like the golden variety are pretty sweet.

Herbs Green Beans They go great with almonds, basil, butter, Parmesan, olive oil, onions, parsley, potatoes, shallots, tomatoes and vinegar. I’m afraid I only have one green bean recipe (click on the above photo for a summery quinoa, feta and green bean salad).

Fresh herbs often make the dish. Although they’re available year round at stores, now might be a good time to plant your herb garden. Herbs that are coming into season now include chervil, chives, dill, green onions, mint, scallions, sorrel and thyme.

How after your

to look

Mental Health and wellbeing if you’re self-isolating With the coronavirus outbreak situation developing every day, ‘self-isolation’ is one of the topics that everybody has been talking about. The Government has advice about when to self-isolate and how to do it. But what about the impact that cutting off human contact will have on your mental health and wellbeing. There are simple things you can do if you’re in this situation over the next few months to help look after your wellbeing. For most people the need for human contact is a basic instinct. Therefore, when you are forced to be alone, it can have a negative impact on wellbeing and psychological health. We often think of this as a major problem for older people, but it is going to be affecting a mix of ages now. Solitary confinement has been used as a punishment for hundreds of years. It’s understandable that the idea of it in this situation has scared people. Isolation can cause immense stress, there will be pinch points, but there are things you can do to have relieve that. It is recommended a series of things that you can do if self-isolation is affecting your mental health and well-being.

Keep in contact with people in other ways Human contact and connection are really important. We can keep in contact with people by Facetime, Whatsapp, Skype and those conversations and interactions can really help at this time.

Reframe If you can reframe your thoughts into being positive, that can help. If it’s possible try to think of this time as an opportunity to get something done. It might read a book, doing your ironing, drawing, catching up on something. Try to get into a positive mind frame. Remember this is for a set time period.

Try to keep a sense of normality “If you’re not sick and you’re able to work from home, that can be really helpful. Try to keep a sense of normality as far as possible.

Self-care It’s important to practise self-care if you’re self-isolating. Take that time to look after yourself, self-care is an important avenue. If you’re stuck by yourself, even if you’re confined to one room of your house, you may still be able to do some meditation, yoga or even some basic physical activity while watching an exercise video. You may want to look after yourself by limiting the amount of time you spend reading the news or looking at social media.

Leon Taylor Launches Mindset and Movement

Leon Taylor Olympian, Mental Health and Fitness Advocate.

Just 6 weeks ago, former British Olympian Leon Taylor found himself without a career. What happened was completely out of his control; Leon picked himself up and looked into launching a new concept in fitness bridging his two passions in life, mental wellbeing and movement.

“What has happened is uncontrollable, what you do now changes everything. I want to help you Think Better, Feel Better, Move Better”

Mindset and Movement was born, a 60-minute class including mental wellbeing coaching, HIIT, Yoga and relaxation. The class is a brilliant way to pick up your day, enhance your mood or add energy to you afternoon. It is a great way to reset your mind and body. Leon is well aware that many people have lost their jobs, the self-employed are living on reduced incomes and futures are uncertain. He wanted to be able to help and support those people as well; each class is pay what you can.

It’s about finding your movement, the physical activity that fills you with joy; this will be the force to guide you away from mental health un-wellness to a healthier mental state. In this time of uncertainty it is even more important to look after your mental health and your fitness. If you are at home with the kids, dogs or by yourself, Mindset and Movement is a great way to take time for yourself” Leon Taylor

Meaning you can pay £1 or £50 depending on what income you have available. “Mental health is greatly impacted by physical inactivity and I am proof of that. When I was injured, I was forced to stop diving and my self-esteem suffered. I only got better and found my lost passion for the sport by slowly getting back into it.

The class runs 3 times a week Monday - 8am Wednesday - 12pm Friday - 5pm

Enjoy

Link to class schedule here: www. bookings.leontaylor.co.uk/ mindsetandmovement

For more information about Leon or to trial a class contact Isobel@klempkacommunications.com

Ingredient s Skin care

Hello ...

I’m Yvette, a Skin Health and Beauty Therapist at Baytree Beauty. Over the coming months I’m going to be talking all things Skin Health and Beauty related. Questions or advice, please send an email to info@localbuzzmagazine.com.

discoloration from acne scarring, evens out skin tone and enhances skin radiance.

Today’s market is saturated with skin care products. What ingredients should you be looking for to target your concerns and benefit your skin? To choose the best products you need to understand your skin type and/or conditions that you are focusing on i.e. dehydration, congestion, etc. Here are my top 5 Active ingredients to look out for:

All Skin Types. Great for dehydrated or dry skin as it acts like a sponge drawing water to the skin and trapping it in. It plumps and firms, regulates cell renewal and maintains skin elasticity.

Broad Spectrum Sunscreen

Salicylic Acid

All Skin Types. Blocks UVA rays that cause ageing and UVB rays that cause burning. Sun Exposure is one of the primary causes of all signs of ageing, causing wrinkling and age spots.

Oily, Congested and Acne Prone Skin Types. Helps to prevent acne. Provides deep cleansing. Can penetrate the oiliest of skins and unclogs pores.

Vitamin C All Skin Types. Will give skin a glow boost! It’s an antioxidant that will neutralise skin damaging free radicals caused by the environment. Inhibiting melanin production in the skin, meaning it helps to fade dark spots such as hyperpigmentation and

Hyaluronic Acid

Retinol (Vitamin A) Ageing Skin. Increases the production of collagen helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It can improve skin colour and skin texture. Increasing the rate of cell turnover it can also be helpful in improving adult acne, making it great for wrinkles and pimples!

within the first 5 ingredients, usually meaning the product contains a higher percentage. Focus more on finding active ingredients within products that stay on your skin for longer, ie. Masks, Serums, Moisturisers. They’ll provide more benefit than those that wash away immediately such as Cleansers. All products that contain any of the above will have their own guidance on how to use. Please always use as directed to avoid any adverse reaction.

When looking for active ingredients within a product, check that they are ideally listed

Keep

Think C

Local Personal & Biomechanics Trainer, Pilates and Water Fitness Specialist; Marie at MG Fitness 26 36

Moving,

Core Strength and Posture! Posture and core strength change how you move and feel. Have you ever felt aches in your back after walking? All you may need to do is adjust your head and shoulder position. Stand tall, engage your core muscles, stabilise your body and have all the benefits of moving freely without added pain. Rounding your shoulders can throw your whole body out. Good Posture and core strength really can help with a healthy life. Correcting posture provides an instant boost to how you look and feel, it’s about adjusting and being mindful. You instantly look taller, leaner and fitter. A strong core is beneficial to everyone. The strength allows your body to function properly and helps to improve your mobility and balance, along with providing the foundation of good posture.

Good posture Many parts of your body are involved but particularly the shape and position of your spine. We need to aim to have good Static and Dynamic posture, this results in comfortably standing, sitting, laying and moving. Perfect posture rarely exists … It’s trying to be the best you can be and practising good habits.

Poor posture Along with the lack of core strength, poor posture can cause imbalances and extra stress on other areas of your body and prevent proper functioning.

Re-setting your posture Feet hip width part, everything facing forward (naturally for you), feel a lengthening through your body, roll your shoulders back and into place. Try to avoid your shoulders from creeping up and keep a lengthened neck, this will help reduce tension too. Your core should feel strong, chest open and bottom slightly tucked.

Time to focus on your Body

Benefit from spending time on you. Whether it’s to help get you moving with ease, correct your alignment or positioning developed from a regular sport/activity, or from spending time with your head dropped looking at your phone. Exercise, predominately Pilates would be a great start. Exercise doesn’t need to be complicated, it’s about thinking of your body and the control of the movement. Try introducing Bridges, Knee Folds and Wide Arm Raise into a weekly routine to see improvement. Pilates exercise involving gentle stretching will help alleviate pain and strengthen your core.

How we treat our body, the food we eat and lack of exercise for example, impacts our health and movement.

21st June

Father's Day

Good old-fashioned ideas for Father’s Day

Things to do for Daddy on Father's Day Father’s Day, held in the UK on the third Sunday in June, is the day when you can show Dads just how much you love them! Father’s Day is celebrated from Europe to the US, from Russia to Thailand and although the date varies from country to country, the message of appreciation of Fathers remains the same. Here are 7 ideas for traditional things that you and the kids can do for Dad to show your appreciation. All of them are very cheap to do, many can be done with things you already have around th house and some of them are free!

Make A Card

The making-the-card aspect is very important here, the more bizarre the spelling and the more idiosyncratic the artwork the betterI think than any bought card, no matter how beautiful, is never as special as a homemade one. It can also give a fascinating insight into what your children think is important – or think is important to you! Best of all it can be made from whatever you have around the house, so even just paper and pencils, or use any craft supplies you have to hand. They could also use a printable card and colour it themselves.

Make A Gift

Again, the homemade aspect is the most important thing. There are some super ideas for gifts to make for Father’s Day at KinderArt. For more ideas on crafts and other things to do for Father's Day, why not visit our Father's Day Kids Activities Pinterest board.

Give Dad A Lie-In

Now, I know that the kids will be desperately keen to present Dad with their handiwork after all that card making and present crafting, but gently remind them that as it is Father’s Day, he may not want to be woken up at 6am. Of course for some Dads, a weekend liein won’t be a novelty...

Breakfast In Bed

A traditional treat, just remember once again not to make it too early! Very frugal, as long as Dad was going to eat breakfast anyway.

Take Him Out For The Day

OK this one could be free, if he likes to go for a walk.. If he would prefer something else Does he prefer to be taken out for a meal (you’ll need to book early for that one) or is there somewhere he would like to visit – a garden, the beach, a theme park or maybe to

see a show? You’ll know if he prefers a surprise or likes to know ahead of time what’s going on.

Cook A Special Meal If the restaurants are all booked up, cook him a special meal. If you need some ideas go online.

Give Him A Hug The best gift of all, and completely free. Don’t just save it for Father’s Day!

Father’s D creating a

space As the prospect of a continued lockdown looms and the chances of getting away on holiday looks further away, the perfect summer getaway for all you Dads could be hiding down the hall … or down the garden!

Having a mancave, shed or some kind of private space could prove hugely therapeutic – especially during these extraordinary times! Men have reported that personal hangout spots allow them to display their unique identities, relax, and even reflect on their life goals. For others, coming home from work doesn’t allow them to “switch off “- they feel like they’re always “on,” – trying to do everything expected of them as a husband or a father. This doesn’t give them the breathing room/head space they need.

So, creating your own space could give you the vital opportunity to recharge. So why not take this Father’s Day, and the lockdown period, to plan a new space to:

•

Bar/winery/distillery

•

Games/gaming/sports room

•… hang out with friends

• Hobby space – music, photography, model making, trains, arts, reading etc

•… indulge in a hobby

•

TV/cine room

•… or a place to relax, reflect

•

Study/Library

•

Tool-shed/workroom

•

Cars/bikes workshop

You may have limited space and budget to work with but check out these tips to turn this dream into a reality! Dare to do what you dare to dream… Here are a host of options for that space

Here’s how to start planning the space:

Day dedicated

for Dad! 1.

Drinks - identify somewhere to store/make/serve drinks

Seating - what kind of seating do you need? - are you looking for comfort and the ultimate relaxation or something supportive to help you work/ practice/train

3. 4.

5. 6.

Heating/cooling – how will you keep it warm in winter & cool in the summer

Choose what style to go for … traditional/contemporary/ themed/rustic/industrial etc

Where will this dream space go?

Connectivity – what do you want in the way of music, Wi-Fi and screens, and how should these be connected?

•

Attic/Loft

•

Spare bedroom

•

Basement

Lighting – consider natural and artificial light sources and plan to have at least 3 levels of artificial lighting – task (to see what you’re doing), flood (to be able to see the whole space particularly in the evenings) and mood lighting for relaxation

•

Garden room

•

Garage

•

Shed

•

Allotment

Don’t crowd the room – give it space to allow you do an activity but also have the space relax your body and mind Accessibility – consider how you will enter/exit the space and how you will get furniture/equipment into it

• Beach Hut/Log Cabin There are plenty of companies who specialise in making man-cave garden rooms and extensions, so be sure to know what you want first before seeking out the best supplier to work with. There are also great companies offering accessories and furnishings.

The Cave UK is a quirky treasure trove of accessories and furnishings which are updated on a weekly basis. At The Man Cave Broadway you’ll find a range of unique items from up-cycled car furniture, retro gaming, original 'country' pieces and much more! Smithers of Stamford dare you to be different and offer bespoke designer furniture and vintage homewares with an edge. And if you’re looking for niche antiques, try Man Cave Antiques. Want to have a feature wallpaper? Take a look at Milton & King for some fabulous options … For some guys, it’s not about being alone but being with other like-minded souls. There is a wonderful project called the UK Men’s Shed Association (www.menssheds.org.uk) offering locations nationally for men to meet similar people to do things like woodwork, metal work and electronics. There is currently one set up in Blewbury, Didcot run by Mike Magnay (blewshed@gmail.com / 01235 850704) … otherwise James Wilcox would love to hear from you if you’d be interested in helping to set one up in Newbury (jwilcox@fairclosecentre.org / 01635 40488). For daughters and granddaughters reading this - why not treat your father/grandfather to a popup man-cave this Father’s Day … could you do a pop-up bar, or carve out a little relaxation spot in the garage or shed that could be Dad’s spot for the day? Let your imagination go wild and give your Dad/ Granddad that place to dare to dream for a day …. Happy Father’s Day! Vicky Tallon of Tallon Perry Interiors transforms spaces into memorable places - if you’d like a guiding hand feel free to contact Vicky at vicky.tallon@ tallonperryinteriors.com or 07990 978611.

Turn your backyard into a

beer garden... Have you ever wanted your very own biergarten? Imagine a space outdoor, designed with seating where you can relax in the shade and chat and sip beverages with your family. Make it authentic with these tips. You will need • Picnic tables • Blue-and-white checked tablecloths • Beer • Beer mugs or steins • Sausages • Foods • Music • Apple strudel or black forest cake • Iced coffee • Fresh whipped cream

Set up picnic tables Set up wooden picnic tables with tablecloths featuring the blue-and-

white checkered design of the Bavarian flag. If possible, put the tables under a shaded area.

Prepare the side dishes

It's better to have one long table rather than a few small ones, because beer gardens are all about mingling.

Put out bowls of sauerkraut, warm German potato salad, and red cabbage. Make sure each picnic table has a big basket of soft pretzels and sweet, coarse mustard.

Have plenty of beer

Put the music on

Have plenty of German beer on hand, including light beer, lagers, pilsners, and wheat beer. Serve the beer in half-liter or liter mugs, or covered beer steins.

Pipe in some oom pah pah polka music.

Throw wurst on the grill Grill different kinds of sausages, like bratwurst, weisswurst, and knockwurst. Another beer garden staple is "steckerlfisch," or "fish on a stick." Stick whole mackerel on skewers and grill them.

Give a lot of toasts Ask everyone to raise their glass so you can offer a toast. When you're finished, say "Prost!" which is the German word for "Cheers!" Do this often.

Bring on dessert Have apple strudel or black forest cake for dessert, and serve it with ice coffees topped with fresh whipped cream.

Enjoy! 47 33

Father’s Day 2020 For all the times the father figure in your life has been there for you Sunday 21st June

1. Personalised Cards from £1.90 1. Jigsaws from £10.00 Choose from a variety of designs to make a unique card specifically for him them night feel extra special this Add a touch of and fun make to games by creating Father’s Day. Personalised Jigsaw. Available in a your own range of sizes and difficulty levels. More Info 2. Mugs from £8.00 2. Slate Photo from “Just his cup of tea”Panels - Choose from£11.00 a range of designs to

match his style and add a favourite photo of you both. Show the fatherly figure in your life just how much he is loved and appreciated everyday with 3. Phone Cases from £12.00 our personalised slate panels. More Info Showcase your creative side this Father's Day and design 3. Cushions from £14.00 your father his very own Phone Case, which he can keep close to him. Add a favourite photo to one of our beautiful high quality personalised cushions and add a personal touch to their home or office. More Info

4. Towels from £26.00 These soft and fluffy towels are a great addition to any bathroom or suitcase. Add a favourite photo to make a unique present. More Info 5. Aprons from £17.00 5

4. Photo Magnets from £1.00 6. Mugs from £8.00 Make your favourite memories of your dad stick. Transform favourite moments together “Justyour his cup of tea” - Choose from ainto range of designs to match his style and add a favourite magnetic prints. photo of you both. More Info 5. Keyrings from £4.50 7. Photo Magnets from £1.00 A gentle reminder of the special bond you share, choose a memory caught onmemories camera andofcreate a Make your favourite your dad stick.. personalised keyring. Transform your favourite moments together into

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Let’sTurn TurnCOVID19 COVID19Into Into#KIND20 #KIND20--24 24ththMay May Let’s Workingto toUnite UniteHumanity HumanityThrough ThroughKindness Kindness Working

The#KIND20 #KIND20Campaign Campaign The #KIND20isisaaglobal globalmovement movementfor forsocial socialempathy empathyand andworldwide worldwidekindness. kindness.ItItisisborne borneofofthe the #KIND20 Coronavirus world crisis and has been created as a unifying platform to turn despair and Coronavirus world crisis and has been created as a unifying platform to turn despair and insecurityinto intopositivity positivityand andhope. hope. insecurity #KIND20isissupported supportedby byworld worldfigures figuresfrom frompolitics, politics,faiths faithsand andcommerce. commerce.After Afterextensive extensive #KIND20 background testing it is now ready to offer the people of the planet a non-commercial platform background testing it is now ready to offer the people of the planet a non-commercial platform on which to share peoples' take on Kindness and compassion as an antidote to the tragedies on which to share peoples' take on Kindness and compassion as an antidote to the tragedies COVID19. ofofCOVID19. #KIND20will willidentify, identify,create createand anddeliver deliveraacompelling compellingand andemotionally emotionallydriven, driven,unique unique #KIND20 narrative.We Weinvite invitecitizens citizensofofour ourworld worldtotopost postaavideo, video,photo, photo,music musicororarts artsvideo, video, narrative. expressingwhat whatkindness kindnessmeans meanstotothem themand andnominate nominateatatleast least33others otherstotodo dothe thesame. same. expressing Nowimagine, imagine,ififone oneperson personpasses passesititonto ontojust just33others, others,and andthey theyininturn turnpass passititonto onto33more, more, Now it will eventually create a continuum where our world will be full of kindness, hope and it will eventually create a continuum where our world will be full of kindness, hope and positivity.These Thesecould couldalso alsoinclude includeActs ActsofofKindness Kindnessexperienced, experienced,seen seenororaapersonal personal positivity. commitmentofofchange. change. commitment Thefirst firstever ever‘Global ‘GlobalKindness KindnessWebApp’ WebApp’isisbeing beingcreated createdon onthe the#KIND20 #KIND20website, website,totofocus focus The on rarely seen, positive statistics. Each post will register immediately. Additionally, mayors on rarely seen, positive statistics. Each post will register immediately. Additionally, mayors ofof globalcities citiesare arebeing beingrequested requestedtotofeature featureaadigital digitalcounter, counter,showcasing showcasingthe thenumber numberofof global #KIND20 posts to inspire people. By the year-end, we are confident there will bemore morecases cases #KIND20 posts to inspire people. By the year-end, we are confident there will be of kindness than cases of COVID19. of kindness than cases of COVID19. The#KIND20 #KIND20count countisisalso alsoan anoffering offeringofofglobal globallove lovetotoeach eachperson personwho whohas haslost lostaaloved lovedone. one. The We encourage the media to feature relevant ‘posts’ and our daily count as part of a new We encourage the media to feature relevant ‘posts’ and our daily count as part of a new positiveagenda. agenda. positive Thismeasurable measurablesuccess successcan canbe bethe thecatalyst catalystfor fornew newfoundations foundationsofofpositivity positivityininour ourworld: world: This Oneglobal globalfamily, family,united unitedthrough throughkindness. kindness. One HowCan CanYou YouBe BePart Partof of#KIND20? #KIND20? How Takeaavideo videoororphoto photoofofyourself yourselfororyour yourfamily familyand andexpress express • • Take “What Kindness Means to You” “What Kindness Means to You” Atthe theend endofofyour yourvideo, video,use usethe theslogan slogan"Let's "Let'sTurn TurnCOVID19 COVID19Into Into#KIND20" #KIND20" • • At Shareon onyour yoursocial socialmedia mediausing using#KIND20 #KIND20&&nominate nominate33friends friendstotodo dothe thesame same • • Share • Use #KIND20 to feature on the ‘Global Kindness WebApp’ • Use #KIND20 to feature on the ‘Global Kindness WebApp’ Bekind kind––take takepart, part,give givehope, hope,spread spreadjoy, joy,inspire inspireothers others • • Be #KIND20will willshow showthe theworld worldhow howpeople peopleare arebecoming becomingkinder kindertotoeach eachother, other,connecting connecting #KIND20 families, communities, and countries. families, communities, and countries.

ClickHere HeretotoView ViewCampaign CampaignVideo Video Click is supporting #KIND20 For more information please contact: info@localbuzzmagazine.com

For more information see

www.drewforsyth.co.uk or call 01422 842206.

From clever storage wins to multi-functional layouts: life in a post-pandemic kitchen is changing We’re all spending a little more time at home these days and with the kitchen being at the centre of family life, the way we use this space is adapting and not just for the short-term. As we transition to a new normal, it may be time to make some alterations in the kitchen. With restaurants not as accessible, home cooking is becoming ever popular and the kitchen is likely to change in the following ways: •

Appliances - Larger fridge freezers and even second freezers in a pantry or utility room will become more common. New technology previously only available in commercial refrigeration is entering the domestic market, with consumers investing in appliances that help keep food fresher for longer. With home baking on the increase, ovens with technical features such as moisture injection and precise temperature help produce professional end results.

•

Wine fridges and wine racks – when you can’t get to the pub, the popularity of thehome bar is on the rise. Glazed gin display cupboards, wine racks and wine coolers will be a must-have where space will allow in larger kitchens.

•

Open shelving will be another must-have, providing storage for cookbooks and a place to grow fresh herbs from scratch.

•

Storage – from deep wide drawers and pull-out shelving replacing standard cupboard interiors to cleaning cupboards becoming pantries for tinned goods, open shelving for jars bottles and spices, the kitchen will be organised like never before.

•

With small appliances such as mixing aids and coffee machines much more commonplace since pre-lockdown, clever design features such as bi-folding breakfast cupboards enable them to be hidden away yet still easily accessible.

•

Layout – As whole families spend more time at home, dining spaces will become the norm again. The living room will become an extension of the kitchen even more as designers look to create fluid living spaces where the whole family can interact in harmony.

George Forsyth of Drew Forsyth Kitchens comments, “As a result of the pandemic the design process is changing considerably too, with a shift to virtual design consultations that enable homeowners to achieve the space of their dream while always keeping our customers and our staff safe. “The kitchen has always been a big investment, but now more than ever customers are recognising the benefits of opting for bespoke, achieving a space that is tailor-made and enables them and their families to live together comfortably.”

Black Insomnia first to launch 100% compostable coffee pods in the UK. Black Insomnia Coffee Company, the maker of the world's strongest medium roast coffee, has launched a revolutionary Nespresso©-compatible coffee pod which is 100% home compostable. The new pods, which are certified by TÜV Austria as ‘Ok Compost Home Compost', present a completely eco-friendly alternative to the standard aluminium and plastic capsule. This means they can be disposed of alongside home food waste and will compost in the garden within six weeks. According to research, 39,000 coffee capsules are produced every minute globally, of which 29,000 end up in landfill. Nespresso themselves concede that 71 per cent of their capsules are not currently being recycled. Even those capsules which are recycled require vast amounts of energy to do so, making compostable pods the most ecofriendly solution. Black Insomnia is the first coffee company to provide coffee in this new eco-friendly way in the UK. Black Insomnia CEO, Jim Walker, said: "The use of coffee pods has grown massively over recent years. The problem is that the traditionally manufactured versions can't be easily recycled, ending up in landfill and therefore significantly damaging the environment. "We wanted to find a way of making our smooth tasting coffee available in pods but we

had to ensure they would be eco-friendly at the same time. We've managed to go one step further than standard recyclable pods by providing 100% home compostable versions for ultimate convenience. "We are delighted to be launching our new coffee pods at this time, and we're now looking for other ways to help protect the environment, including rain forest protection and Fairtrade Foundation accreditation." Black Insomnia COO, Alexander Sacken, said: "After years of research and testing, together with world-renowned partners, we are proud to be the first in the UK to introduce a home compostable coffee pod that still keeps the coffee fresh for 15 months with no additional packaging this is revolutionary. "This is certified by a world-leading institute and so coffee-lovers can be sure that using Black Insomnia pods will not harm nature or the wider environment while enjoying an Espresso of the world's strongest coffee without feeling bad." The global coffee pod and capsule

blackinsomnia.co.uk

market is expected to reach $29.2 billion by 2025, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.5% during the forecast period from 2018-2025. This highlights that it is more important than ever to find sustainable solutions, allowing consumers to continue enjoying coffee without harming the environment. In terms of coffee quality, keeping it fresh is key, and Black Insomnia achieves this by using shells from sunflower seeds. These provide natural protection against light and oxygen - which are damaging to coffee - and are therefore ideal to protect the ground coffee in each pod, maintaining its delicious freshness.

Cashflow

Planing without a crisis Cashflow planning should be a living document in any business. If you only turn your attention to your cashflow forecast when problems start to occur, you’re already on the back foot to start managing the unexpected when it happens. The longer these issues continue, the more exposed your business becomes and further unexpected dents to your cash flow can put your business at serious risk. It’s important that business owners PLAN FOR a crisis instead of just REACTING to it. Although the specifics of the unexpected event can’t necessarily be predicted, the impact on your business can be. Crisis will happen at some point. You need to be prepared for it and equip your business to be able to ‘ride out the storm’ and ultimately survive. Here’s some thoughts.

Test your forecasting! Don’t use your cashflow forecast simply for vanity metrics. Graphs and charts always look great when everyone pays on time. What does your forecast look like when only 25% of your clients pay on time? What if this happens for one month, two months… six months? If you haven’t tested those scenarios, do so now! Don’t get complacent. Don’t be tempted to eat into cash reserves as soon as any cashflow issues ease up, or you think your business is undefeatable. Remain controlled so that you continue to benefit and create a decent cash buffer for when times may be lean again.

Don’t file it away. Once you have a detailed cashflow forecast and you’ve tested it, don’t simply file it away! The document should be a living, breathing part of your business. Cashflow planning isn’t just a task to tick off and to revisit on an annual basis. Make it visible. We acknowledge that the coronavirus outbreak is somewhat of an extreme crisis to plan for, but what we’re seeing is that businesses have failed to prepare for even the smallest of business interruptions.

If you need further support on helping your business to recover visit www.hjsrecovery.co.uk, call 0808 1644 222 or email help@hjsrecovery.co.uk 39

Abbie Cooper Davis Columnist abbie@localbuzzmagazine.com

Oh The Simple Things in Lifeâ&#x20AC;Ś Ordinarily, the summer months are synonymous with jetting away to somewhere hot, hearing the joyous sounds of children playing on swings whilst walking by the local park and the annoying arrival of itchy eyes, runny noses; the relentless hay fever symptoms inherent to the warm weather. Whilst the onset of hay fever is still sure to prevail this June, quarantine will bring many unprecedented changes; a truly one of a kind summer. The outbreak of coronavirus and the changes symptomatic of this pandemic have truly shaken the world. However, such unprecedented events and worries should not be perceived as entirely negative. Rather a time to appreciate the simple aspects of life and family time, amidst the absence of the ordinary chaos of commuting to work, the dreaded school run and the last-minute holiday packing. This renewed sense of infinite time has encouraged many to take up hobbies 40

and learn new skills, previously rendered impossible when there were not enough hours in the day. Lockdown has ignited a new problem â&#x20AC;&#x201C; there are too many hours in the day to fill. We have found the simple things, painting, baking bread and planting seeds, essentially learning the oldfashioned arts of self-sufficiency and entertainment. In times of adversity, new forms of heroism emerge among frontline workers, healthcare professionals, cleaners, volunteers and many others. Neighbours are brought together, figuratively, though not literally, through their weekly applause of key workers and the resurgence of neighbourliness and volunteering has created newfound means of giving and caring.

Family members perhaps far away or even estranged, have reached out, forming connections previously lost and diluted. These forgotten pleasures provide immense meaning to life and community, introducing a dynamic unfortunately exempt from the mundane routine of nine-to-five jobs. The world has re-discovered lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s simple pleasures, anticipate them and savour them, before this awful time becomes history.

Local

Independent Optometrist offering emergency eye and vision support

Free delivery in and around Newbury for orders from the new on-line shop

Valarie Jerome, who opened her independent optometrist service late last year, has responded to the current situation by offering video consultations for patients with emergency eye care concerns. At the same time, she has set up an on-line facility for ordering from a range over-the-counter eye and optical medication and is offering free delivery in and around the Newbury area. "I have been overwhelmed by the response I have had from the people of Newbury since opening my business last December. These are obviously difficult times for us all and I hope that these small measures may help alleviate some of my patients' concerns;" said Valarie. Anyone with an eye emergency or concerns about their vision can contact Valarie direct on 07771933898 or visit the company's Facebook page www. facebook.com/drvalariejerome/ toorder items

Background

Originally from the USA, Dr Valarie Jerome has lived in Newbury for many years and has worked locally in the area 20 at various opticians as both a resident and locum optometrist. Earlier this year she was short listed for the Association of Optometrists Locum of the Year 2019. Dr Jerome has been practising as an optometrist since 2003. She received her BSc (Bachelor of Science) degree from Georgia Southern University in Georgia, USA and OD (Doctor of Optometry) degree from Nova Southeastern

University in Florida, USA. She worked in the USA for many years in primary eye care treating various eye conditions such as glaucoma, dry eye disease, iritis, blepharitis and conjunctivitis. She also spent time working in a low vision clinic offering custom vision plans for the partially sighted and alongside an eye consultant offering pre-operative and post-operative care of cataract surgery patients.

For optometry appointments please contact Valarie Jerome Tel: 01635 528844 Email: Valarie@DrValarieJerome.com 41

Are you unsigned and talented?

The Shed Session is an exciting new YouTube platform that was launched on the 5th January this year with the sole purpose of promoting unsigned and talented musicians nationally. www.theshedsession.com contact@theshedsession.com The Shed Session 42

@theshedsession

Unsurprisingly The Shed is a (large) garden shed in Brentwood, Essex that has been converted into a recording studio and multimedia space. It boasts professional grade equipment to allow the recording and production of audio visual material.

music is not right for the channel.

As you might expect this happens via a live performance of original material where a band/artist get to strut their stuff in front of the camera and have it professionally recorded for YouTube.

From there it’s a matter of being selected based upon your diversity and talent which was mentioned earlier in the article. Once selected you’ll need to make the journey to Brentwood, Essex for your day in the studio.

Ralph Mullan, the founder of the Shed Session, owner of The Shed Studio and self-confessed music addict, has played and worked with unsigned bands for many years. He has wanted to turn a dream of owning a studio and his desire to help gigging unsigned talent to climb the super tough music ladder into a reality for many years. Ralph recognised the insatiable appetite of today’s social media platforms for content and saw The Shed Session going some way towards satisfying this must have for any aspiring talent. The Shed Session welcomes and encourages diversity and wants to showcase people from all walks of life, all ages and all styles. There is absolutely no reason for anyone to think that their

To get involved you’ll need to contact Ralph at The Shed via one of the platforms listed at the bottom of this article provide an appropriate link to your material and social media sites.

If selected it is worth noting that The Shed Session is free, YES FREE!! If you are not a performer or maybe you are not selected there is still some great music to be enjoyed on the channel so why not like and subscribe to the fortnightly releases?

Ralph Mullan, the founder of the Shed Session, owner of The Shed Studio

LOVE, DEATH & DANCING To be released 12th JUNE 2020

Jack Garratt is very pleased to share details of his second album and his first new music since 2016. ‘Love, Death & Dancing’ will be released on the 12th June 2020 through Island Records. The music is performed solely by Jack, and produced alongside Jacknife Lee and James Flannigan. It is available for pre-order. The record is preceded today by the sharing of three new songs, Vol. 1, Jack’s first new music since 2016’s ‘Phase’ LP. Jack Garratt accompanies this deeply personal album with an equally reflective

“I wrote this album as someone - and for anyone - who likes dancing but doesn’t necessarily want to go out on a Saturday. It’s dance music for people who don’t want to go out” Jack Garratt

long-form visual piece, ‘Love, Death & Dancing – a film by Jack Garratt’, of which the first instalment ‘Time’ is out now on all major video platforms. View it HERE

Click the album to listen

Listen to Vol. 1, featuring ‘Time’, ‘Mara’, and ‘Return Them To The One’ click HERE In February, Jack headed out on a UK and European ‘Work In Progress’ tour to preview the new songs out on the road, ahead of further headline dates later in the year.

www.jackgarratt.com

The Diet Plate is perfect for lockdown ... ... it can be used in the privacy and safety of the person's home and is a great lifestyle tool, firstly because a person uses it to get to goal weight and then uses it to maintain their weight, I have had a lady use hers for 14 years and the most she ever gained after losing 4 stones was 5lbs back. This is because as soon as she feels like she might be putting weight back on then she pulls the plate out and begins to use it to re-educate herself to the correct portion sizes for the different food groups.

Sam Smith Lost over 12 KG / 2 Stone

James Dennis Lost over 105 KG / 17 Stone

The Diet Plate worked for me, I lost 2 stone and reduced from a size 16 to a size 12. It taught me all about food and nutrition and what a true portion looks like. I will never go back to living like I did. When you get to your goal weight nothing quite feels like the sense of success you get when you try on a dress 2 sizes smaller and it slips right over your body.

After an injury which left me unable to exercise anymore, I started to gain weight at an alarming rate. It did not take me too long to reach a whopping 36 and a half stone. I used The Diet Plate every night and followed the plan. I started to lose weight and quite rapidly began to look much better.

The product is for the whole family to use, we have a child's plate and a male version too.

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Debbie Headen Lost over 24 KG / 4 Stone I followed the plan to the letter and was astonished at how quickly the weight was falling off and at how quickly my figure was coming back. I will never go back to the old Debbie, I love my life now. I love being slim and buying clothes that look just how the designer intended.

The Diet Plate can be found on the website thedietplate.com and it costs ÂŁ19.99 with bowl ÂŁ14.99 and postage. 45

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We remain here to support you and provide peace of mind

These have been truly exceptional times when our primary focus is and should be, the health and wellbeing of one another and those closest to us. We want to make sure you know we are here and available to assist with your financial planning requirements as and when you need us.

As such, if you have any questions or concerns about your financial planning please do contact us in the usual way. If you are new and would like to consider receiving advice then we offer a wide range of financial planning services:

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investing a lump sum for growth or income

Although we can’t operate face to face meetings currently, through the use of technology we are able to continue to work normally.

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We understand the value of information in uncertain times and that's why we are committed to bringing you relevant, expert and rational communications on a regular basis

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We look forward to continuing to be of service to you during these uncertain times. For a free, no obligation discussion please contact Andy Street on 07767 081051 or email andrew. street@sjpp.co.uk or visit my website at www.andrewstreetwm. co.uk

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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. This year we have partnered with Living Paitings Charity. We look forward to welcoming you to our events this year, contact us if you have any questions. 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.

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Local Buzz – Award Winning Lifestyle Magazine ISS73

Articles inside

Oh The Simple things in Life

Turn your back garden into a Beer garden

Local Independent Optometrist

Cashflow Planning without a crisis

How to Look after your Mental Health

Taste of France

7 old-fashioned ideas for Father's Day

Avocado and Poached Egg on Toast

Seasonal Food

and wellbeing if you are self-isolation Keep Moving think Core Strenght

Competitions

Community Support