My local Magazines Middlesbrough December 2017

AUTO-BIOGRAPHIES Mulled Wine

Abarth 124 Spider Page 20

Page 7

What the Heck is Hygge?

Page 12

My Local Magazine

®

Issue 67 | December 2016 | The BEST of Middlesbrough’s Business, News, Reviews and To-Do’s

Local Stories Local Businesses Gardening Car Reviews

Health & Beauty Home Horoscopes

Keep Me for 2 Months

distributed by DO YOU NEED A CLEANER Famous Flyers page 14 To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475 E: jeremy@mylocal-magazine.co.uk 1

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Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages are fitted by time served tradesmen so our customers are assured of the best job. Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we The company, based locally, say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, offers homeowners the opand Value in that we offer portunity to maximise their our services at a price people storage space with a loft can afford. Our business ladder, 50 sq ft of boarding relies on referrals and we got and a light all fully fitted in a huge amount of our calls less than a day from just £277 + VAT. But it’s not just from people who have been the affordability of the pack- referred to us by our existing customers - that simply age the company offers that wouldn’t happen if we didn’t makes Yorkshire Loft Ladadhere to our overriding ders stand out as manager principles.

Paul Robson explains: These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Yorkshire Loft Ladders come in.

‘Our watchwords are Quality, Integrity and Value.

lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation we carry out!’

So, if you want to make use of your loft space, however

big or small, call Paul on 0800 612 8359 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers

To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475 E: jeremy@mylocal-magazine.co.uk

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how to save £1,000s and get a new kitchen in just 48 hours Buying aa new newkitchen kitchencan canbe a Buying be a stressful experience. stressful experience.

HighHighpressure are followed pressure salessales are followed by by lengthy delays, then lengthy delays, then one one of the of theused mostrooms used in rooms in theis most the home home out is totally out offor bounds totally of bounds a weekfor or a week or more. more.

But But customers customersininthe thenorth northeast east have have another anotheroption. option.AAwelcome welcome alternative alternativethat thatisishalf halfthe thecost costofof an average averagenew newkitchen, kitchen,can canbe be an delivered within withinthe themonth, month,and and delivered fitted in in as aslittle littleas asaaday. day. fitted From From its its showroom showroomininYarm, Yarm, Dream Dream Doors DoorsTeeside Teesidesupplies supplies time time and and money-saving money-savingkitchen makeovers – as well–as kitchen makeovers as well

Quality Kitchen Facelifts

as appliances complete appliances and and complete kitchens fitted ifkitchens requiredif–required all fitted –byallapproved by approved installers. It is local installers.local A family-run also part owned of a national franchised business

by Kevin and networkClarke, of Dream Katrina it is Doors also part of a showrooms that stretches national franchised networkall of the way down to Cornwall.

Dream Doors showrooms that stretches all the way down to “Major home improvement Cornwall. projects always seem daunting.

“Major homefar improvement But there's less upheaval projects always daunting,” with our kitchenseem makeovers.

For says Kevin. there's farout less a door swap“But we're in and upheaval ourakitchen in a day, with and for facelift, with makeovers.

Forand a door swap new worktops a sink, we'll we're in and out in a day, and for probably need an extra day. a facelift, with new worktops and aDream sink, we'll probably need Doors asks for justan a 50 extra day.deposit from customers percent

on order, andasks guarantees Dream Doors for just aall50its percent deposit doors and workfrom free customers of charge. on order, and guarantees all its doors and work of charge.

Customers alsofree benefit from Customers also benefit from dealing with local business dealing business ownerswith wholocal are also part of a owners who are also part of a national brand. “Dream Doors is national brand. “Dream Doors is theUK's UK'sbiggest biggestname nameininkitchen kitchen the facelifts. Katrina But unlike other facelifts,” says.

“Butnational unlike companies, buy from other nationalcustomers companies, customers buy fromowners us – the– and us – the business business – andthe we best know we knowowners we'll deliver we'll deliverservice.” the best customer customer service.”

Contactkevin Jackie Contact oron katrina on 01642 01642924956 646029or orvisit visit www.dreamdoors.co.uk www.dreamdoors.co.uk

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Call Kevin For a Free Estimate:

01642 646 029

www.dreamdoors.co.uk 4

Visit our Showroom: Dream Doors Teesside, Yarm, Stockton on Tees, 21 High Street , TS15 9BW

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Welcome It does seem like twelve months since I was writing my introduction for last years December magazine.

Am I still sticking to my fitness plans? Well yes! I still ride my bike to work most days. For those considering riding a bike to work I would highly recommend it. It really does clear your head especially if you have had a stressful day.

This year, more than ever I am really looking forward to Christmas.

For the previous twenty eight years Debbie, my wife worked in retail, so most of my Christmas and New year was taken up taking Debbie to and from work. I’m particularly looking forward to Boxing Day, the thought of just watching the tele and not have to venture out will be in itself a great Christmas treat for me, as well as just getting together with the family on Christmas Day for great Christmas Day Dinner.

Regular Features Recipe

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Beauty

8

Motors

18-21

Gardening Trades

Tastes so good Mulled Wine 7

22 27-32

NEW Advertiser Index

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Hangover Cure 8

Celebrity Interview Ricky Tomlinson 10

Russell Grant 16

So I wish you all a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year and happiness for 2017.

All the very best

Abarth 124 Spider 20 Jeremy Middleton Managing Director My Local Magazines Ltd, Office 4, Walker House, 3rd Floor, High Street Stockton on Tees TS18 1BG T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265 475 E: jeremy@mylocal-magazine.co.uk www.mylocal-magazine.co.uk

@mylocalmag /mylocalmagazine

My Local Magazine does not endorse any advertisement with in this publication. My Local Magazine cannot be held responsible for breach of copyright arising from publication artwork supplied. It is the advertisers responsibility to ensure conformity wuth the Trades Description Act 1975 Business Advertisement Disclosure Order 1977 and The Consumer Act 1974. Reproduction of this magazine is in anyway is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use any of the advertisements or content with in this publication please contact Jeremy Middleton 01642 924847 Whilst we, the publisher take great care to be accurate, no liability will be accepted under any circumstances should any of the contents of this publication be incorrect.

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How to make your Conservatory Feel like a Proper Room If you’ve ever tried to use your conservatory in the winter, you’ll know that it can feel like a cold, damp and dismal part of the house.

In all the glossy conservatory sales catalogues, the sun is always shining, the garden is blooming and everyone is having fun being in the bright and clean ‘new room’.

The reality is that most conservatories are too hot to use in comfort in the summer, and certainly too cold to use in the winter. Condensation can be a problem in the winter, and it’s too bright to watch a tv in there in the summer. And when it rains, the noise can be deafening!

Most conservatories have been built as temporary structures and usually as a less expensive alternative to an extension. This means that they don’t comply

with the building regulations that an extension would have to do especially in terms of the thermal efficiency.

The team at local specialists Inceil talk to homeowners every day who want to be able to use their conservatory all year round and not on the handful of days when the temperature is just right!

Their cost-effective solution is to fit an insulated ceiling fitted to the existing roof structure in just 1 or 2 days. The new plastered ceiling follows the contours of the existing roof and uses the most thermally dynamic insulation available. Your conservatory will feel like a proper room with a better temperature year round. And you don’t have to do anything to the external roof.

It’s important when having any works done that you are happy with the people working in your home.

Customers frequently comment on how polite and friendly everyone is in the Inceil team – and that they cleaned up when they had finished!

On the Inceil informative website www.inceil.co.uk you can watch an installation video which shows exactly how the process works, and request a free survey and quote. Or give them a call on 01904 891936.

In just one or two days, your conservatory can be transformed into a comfortable and usable part of your home.

Is your conservatory TOO COLD to use this winter?

An insulated ceiling from Inceil will transform your conservatory so it is warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer - so you can enjoy your conservatory all year round.

Affordable, effective and fitted in just 2 days

Call 01904 891936 now to arrange a FREE quote and survey.

www.inceil.co.uk 6

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Tastes so good...

Mulled Wine An easy mulled wine recipe for the festive season, brimming with Christmassy spice. Don’t bother with expensive wine - a cheap red will work beautifully and no one will ever know the difference!

Eat, Drink and be merry!

Ingredients for 4- 6 servings 1 bottle dry red wine 2 (5cm) cinnamon sticks 1 dessertspoon whole cloves 1 dessertspoon whole allspice 1 large piece orange rind (avoid the pith) 1 large piece lemon rind (avoid the pith) 2-4 tablespoons demerara sugar, (or to taste) Preparation time: less than 30 mins Cooking time: less than 10 mins

Serves: 4- 6 adults Method Pour the wine into a heavy saucepan over medium heat, and

add the cinnamon, cloves, allspice, lemon rind and orange rind. Heat gently, but don’t bring to the boil.

Stir in 2 tablespoons of the sugar, and once dissolved, taste to see if you’d like the wine sweeter and add more if so (take care not to burn your mouth as this will be hot!).

Keep hot on medium to low heat for 20 minutes to let the flavours infuse the wine.

Strain your mulled wine into heatproof glasses or mugs and serve at once, perhaps accompanied by mince pies or just enjoy by the fireside.

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Fixing the Hangover from Hell

By Kate Duggan Pounding head … gasping thirst … a vague memory of telling anyone who’d listen how much you love them … Sound familiar?

Most of us have woken up to regret that last drink (or five), at least once. If you’re reading this through bleary eyes, while trying to stop the world from spinning, you might want to take heed of these hangover cures: Rehydration sachet Dehydration is the main cause of your hangover symptoms. Drink plenty of water and juice, but if that’s not helping, try a rehydration sachet or isotonic drink.

A fry-up A fry-up is a bit of a kill or cure remedy in my opinion. Many people swear by it though. Ideally, go for grilled meat, rather than fried, or you might realise it tastes a lot better going down than it does coming back up.

A banana Bananas contain potassium, which

you might be lacking after all the booze. If you don’t fancy a banana, try popping a multivitamin.

Tomato juice and raw egg Personally, the risk of salmonella is enough to put me off this one. No one seems to be able to explain why the egg needs to be raw, so I’ll stick to my boiled egg and toasted soldiers, with a side of tomato juice.

Milk thistle This is my fail-safe remedy. Milk thistle can help to detoxify your liver, so really does seem to help reduce a hangover, or even prevent it in the first place. Ideally, you should take one or two capsules before bed and another first thing in the morning.

Hair of the dog that bit you Treating a hangover with more alcohol is just delaying the pain. If you can stomach a drink, you may well feel better short-term, but the hangover will come back again, with a vengeance.

Fresh air While you may just want to curl up on the sofa with Netflix, a walk outside will usually help to clear your head. Just don the shades so your bloodshot eyes don’t scare any small children.

Mongolian cure If all else fails, you could go for a drink that’s said to be popular the morning after the night before in Mongolia – tomato juice with a pickled sheep’s eyeball. Not sure where you’re going to get the eyeball from however.

Prevention Of course, prevention is always better than cure. Next time you’re out, try alternating your alcoholic drinks with soft drinks, and downing a pint of water before bed.

Suffering from a few too many hangovers? It might be worth visiting www.drinkaware.co.uk.

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Only the Lonely

By Kate Duggan Christmas can be a particularly difficult time of year if you’re on your own. And, even if you’re surrounded by friends and family, it’s still possible to feel lonely. However, there are lots of charities that might be able to help: Middlesbrough and Stockton Mind leads on a project called Ageing Better Middlesbrough that is working to reduce loneliness and social isolation in people aged 50 and over in Middlesbrough. They can offer advice, assistance and useful information for people 50 and over who experience loneliness and social isolation. You can join the membership for free. Visit www. ageingbettermiddleslbrough.org. uk or call 01642 257034 for more information.

You can also visit National Mind’s website for useful information and advice on how to combat loneliness. Visit www.mind.org.uk or call 0300 123 3393.

The Red Cross and The Coop have partnered up to tackle loneliness. They’re aiming to ‘provide vital care and support to help reconnect thousands of isolated and lonely people with their communities.’ Call the Red Cross on 0344 871 11 11.

Wavelength provides TVs and radios to people who are on their own and who might struggle to afford them otherwise.

Beneficiaries need to be referred, by a friend or housing officer for example. Contact 0800 0182137.

Community Christmas believes that no one should be on their own at Christmas, so it helps to direct older people to events and groups that can help. Visit communitychristmas.org.uk or call 0844 443 0662.

A pet can offer much needed companionship, but they do take a lot of care. If you’re struggling to look after your pet, The Cinnamon Trust may be able to arrange for a volunteer to help walk your dog, or take your pet to the vet. Contact the trust on 01736 757 900.

It can be difficult to meet new people. A community class can help to get you talking to others with similar interests. Your local community college will likely have courses in everything from creative writing to flower arranging.

If you’re fit enough, why not consider volunteering? It’s a great way to get out of the house, meet new people and give yourself a sense of purpose. You could volunteer at a local shop, help out at a homeless shelter, or get involved in making your community a greener, cleaner place to live. Visit do-it.org for local opportunities.

tips about how to support them.

Visit: www.beafriendtoday.org. uk. It can be difficult if you have a friend or relative who you know is lonely, especially if you’re not able to see them every day. You could try sharing the responsibility with other friends or relations. Maybe set a day for each person to visit or ring. The charities above might also be able to offer you advice.

It’s worth contacting your GP if you’re struggling with loneliness or feeling depressed. He or she may be able to point you in the direction of organisations that can help.

If you’re not the one who’s lonely, but you’re worried about an elderly friend or neighbour, the Be a Friend campaign has some great

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Celebrity Interview Ricky Tomlinson talks to Tim Saunders Ricky Tomlinson is probably best known for playing Jim Royle in the Royle Family.

His catchphrase ‘My arse!’ is equally memorable. In 2001 he was National Television Comedy Actor of the Year and was awarded Best Performance in Network Drama by the Royal Television Society. Many, including the director, Ken Loach believe Ricky to be a fine actor, “…His work – and comedy – springs from a life that has seen hardship and struggle and many changes in fortune. From his early days in the building trade and as one of the heroic Shrewsbury Two, he has always known which side he is on, as those who have experienced his generosity and loyalty will testify.”

In 1968, after deciding that less immigration meant more jobs, Ricky signed up to the National Front. He went on marches and registered as a candidate.

Britain’s first building strike was called in 1972. Ricky became a

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member of the Wrexham Strike Action Committee and peacefully picketed building sites but was later arrested and found guilty of unlawful assembly. Refusing to plead guilty, he went down for two years. “They were tough times but my Liverpool sense of humour helped me survive.”

On leaving prison he discovered that he had been blacklisted from the building trade. “So I became a stand-up comic touring the pubs and clubs. I started acting in 1979, when, at the age of 40, director Roland Joffe cast me in the lead role of the controversial BBC film, United Kingdom.” Yet Ricky admits to finding it difficult remembering his lines. “It does take me time. Fortunately, Ken Loach and other directors are happy for me to extemporise.”

Ricky has starred in a variety of TV programmes and films: Brookside; Boys From The Blackstuff; Cracker; Down To Earth (which sums Ricky up to a tee – he happily chats to anyone);

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the Royle Family; 51st State; and Mike Bassett: England Manager.

He has made one top selling comedy video entitled Laughter My Arse and written two books, the first, his autobiography was called Ricky (available in all good bookshops priced £17.99) and was a number one bestseller.

“So far it has sold half a million copies. It was in 2002, that my wife Rita sold it to Time Warner for the incredible sum of £800,000.

I still can’t believe it.” Since this phenomenal success, Rita has become Ricky’s agent. Given that she knows his availability and the roles he likes, she insists it’s no problem negotiating his acting work. Ricky has now been commissioned to write a third book, which will be about his life in showbiz. In addition, he has won ten regional awards for comedy, personality and drama.

His CD single are you lookin’ at me was released in 2001 and reached no. 18.

So what’s this celebrity up to

now? Driving Ferraris and jetting abroad at every opportunity?

Not a bit of it. “We do have a big caravan that we take to Benidorm now and again, but to be honest when I’m not acting, I’m doing DIY which I’m not bad at. We have a large garden at home in a quiet part of Liverpool near the Mersey and I’ve built sheds, fitted electrics and water. Actually, I’m a DIY fanatic. Every day off I get a different tool from B&Q. I have most of their tools. Now that I’m a certain age, I’m a B&Q Diamond cardholder - I get 10% off any purchase, which’ll come in handy when I buy my generator. I’ve just finished filming an in-house film for B&Q too.”

Tim Saunders is an author, journalist and businessman.

He meets celebrities, goes on holiday and road tests cars.

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What the Heck is Hygge?

By Kate Duggan You’d have had to be pretty well snuggled under a mountain of blankets not to have heard about hygge this winter. Pronounced ‘hue-gah’, it’s all about creating a sense of cosiness, of coming together with friends and family, of revelling in simple pleasures.

Think warm, fluffy towels, roaring fires and flickering candles. Think good, honest, home-cooked food, shared with friends.

Hygge isn’t about buying ‘stuff’, whatever the retailers want us to think. You don’t need to spend money to create a sense of hygge.

Wrapping up in a snuggly jumper and going for a walk can be hygge, as can catching up with a friend over coffee. It’s about a feeling, not possessions. It’s about being kind to yourself, and to others.

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You could…

• Curl up in PJs and a snuggly blanket, drink hot chocolate and read a book.

• Light that scented candle you’ve been saving.

• Stop trying to multi-task; turn off your phone and focus on the moment.

• Bake some gooey chocolate chip cookies.

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• Invite a neighbour over for a cuppa.

• Send a loved one a letter.

• Soak in a bath with a few drops of aromatherapy oils.

• Explore the great outdoors with your family.

• Turn off your phone.

While fashions come and go, hygge is one trend that’s very much worth indulging in. Enjoy.

1. Hathi is what type of animal in ‘The Jungle Book’?

Q.

2. What is the capital of the US state of Florida?

3. In Greek mythology what type of arrow did Eros shook Apollo with?

A

1.

2.

3.

Elephant Tallahassee Gold

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Decluttering – the KonMari Way

By Kate Duggan Marie Kondo is a Japanese ‘organising consultant’ whose method for decluttering is taking the globe by storm.

Called KonMari, the method is actually pretty straightforward.

If something you own doesn’t ‘spark joy’, get rid of it. Simple right?

KonMari isn’t for everyone, and Kondo certainly has a few somewhat bizarre suggestions.

(Seriously, who has the time to unpack every item from their handbag, every evening?) But most of her advice is practical, easy to follow and actually makes a lot of sense. She also dips into the psychology of why we hold on to things, and why we should let them go.

doesn’t ‘spark joy’ add it the charity pile. With this approach, you get the shock of realising just how much stuff you actually own, and are more likely to discard items than if you just flick through them when they’re in a drawer.

She does, of course, make some concessions for items you really need but that don’t particularly spark joy. The main idea is that you should stop hoarding stuff that you might use one day, clothes that you only ever wear when the washing pile is teetering over, and items you feel guilty about getting rid of.

Kondo recommends collecting every item in a particular category and going through them in one go.

So, for instance, you’d lay every item of clothing you own on the bed or floor, pick up each one and if it

Kondo also has some good advice when it comes to what to do with the things you keep. She advises against buying expensive storage solutions, and using shoe boxes to keep things tidy instead. She also recommends storing things vertically, e.g. folding clothes so that they can be stacked on end, meaning you can see them, rather than having them buried under

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other items. I’ve found this useful, to an extent. It does mean I can find a black t-shirt easily, but that I might have to unfold several black t-shirts to find the one that has the motif I want.

Kondo lives alone, and it does feel sometimes that her method is mainly aimed at other single adults. She recommends leading by example, the idea being that if you get rid of clutter, your family will follow you. That has not yet happened in my house I have to say. Nevertheless, I have got rid of several bin bags and boxes full of ‘stuff’ since reading her book and have felt surprisingly relieved about doing it.

If you fancy trying the KonMari method for yourself, her book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, can be ordered from most libraries and book stores.

The Power of Clean

By Debbie Singh-Bhatti The first fitted carpet my parents ever owned was medium brown in colour with a deep, textured pile, and it hid a multitude of sins. Grit and dirt from my dad’s work boots, food spills from us kids and the occasional accident by the pet dog were all cleverly concealed. During the 20 years or so it was down it never once required professional cleaning – or so we thought!

Years later when I owned a carpet cleaning business, I learned about the dangers lurking beneath a carpet’s surface and discovered that far from being the creature comfort we thought it was, our deeply piled, deeply loved first carpet was something of a death trap (well, almost!).

The majority of households in the UK only call in the professionals in response to some kind of incident – they’re having visitors so need to spruce things up a bit, or they’ve had a party and one of their guests has spilled red wine.

Post-Christmas you may even find yourself in one of these categories!

But sit comfortably whilst I share a few shocking facts that may keep you awake at night, and prompt you into incorporating regular carpet cleaning into your plans and budget!

FACT ONE An average-sized living room carpet can hold its own weight in trapped soil - around 150 lbs.

FACT TWO About 85% of the dirt a carpet holds is hidden under the surface, buried deep in the pile.

FACT THREE This hidden dirt wears away at the carpet fibres and reduces the carpet’s life dramatically.

FACT FOUR A dirty carpet can harbour harmful mites and bacteria that can trigger asthma and cause allergic reactions.

FACT FIVE The best way to remove deeply embedded dirt and the bacteria that lives in it is to have your carpets professionally cleaned.

FACT SIX Research suggests that you should have your carpets cleaned every 12-18 months to remove unhealthy elements.

There are a number of effective cleaning methods around, including steam, shampoo and chemical, but the most important consideration is whether the technician doing the work is properly trained and qualified. When booking your clean, check about credentials, insurance, what the clean includes (will they move and replace furniture for example?) and ask to see customer testimonials.

By having your carpets cleaned regularly, you will not only help to increase their life expectancy (a welcome prospect in these days of austerity) but you will also be helping to improve the quality of your own life, especially if you are one of the nation’s army of asthma or allergy sufferers. For more information visit the National Carpet Cleaners Association website at www.ncca.co.uk.

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For January 2017

Capricorn

By Astrologer Russell Grant

ARIES March 21st - April 20th 2017 begins in a quiet, understated way. Instead of plunging right into the thick of things, you will gently test the waters. Quiet, contemplative activities will give you the emotional strength to assume big career responsibilities. The Full Moon on the 12th will find you facing off with oppressive officialdom that wants you to spend more time at work. It's critical to set healthy boundaries between work and leisure. You can't neglect your family for the sake of your career. As January draws to a close, you'll become more and more sociable. A gathering on the 28th is worth attending; you'll attract admirers like a flower draws bees at this stimulating gathering. Your popularity comes courtesy of the New Moon, which is helping you to make in-roads to strong friendships. Widening your social network will pay off both personally and professionally. Come out of the shadows and into the light as February approaches.

TAURUS April 21st - May 21st Rubbing elbows with VIPs will be a trend during the first half of January. Whether you're looking for love, want a job or feel compelled to showcase your creative work, get out and network.

Having good connections will help you reach goals that were unattainable last year. Beware of making controversial remarks on social media sites on the 12th.

That's when the Full Moon puts everybody on edge.

If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all. Blocking people who get under your skin can also keep your emotions in check. There's no point wasting valuable energy on a blowhard who is never going to change. The New Moon on the 28th will attract a welcome career opportunity. Don't hesitate to apply for a new job in the tech industry. This position will give you fame, acclaim and a very nice salary. At long last, you'll be able to enjoy the creature comforts you adore.

GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st You'll be basking in the public spotlight in the opening days of January. This is a terrific time to make a sales pitch or public appeal.

People will respond warmly to your wit, intelligence and humanity. Don't be surprised if you're asked to manage a collection or fund. Use this money to assist people who have been overlooked in your community. The Full Moon on the 12th could make you feel undervalued, due to a pay cheque that is much smaller than you expected. Take this opportunity to build a strategy for 16

landing a better job. Working at a university, publishing house or law firm could be profitable, both emotionally and financially. Start sending out applications on the 28th, when you'll have the strength of the New Moon on your side. If you've always wanted to work abroad, this could be your big chance to do so. Be willing to venture out of familiar surroundings.

CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd A pleasure trip could pave the way for an important social contact or romantic connection. Spend the opening days of 2017 touring a city that has fascinated you since childhood.

If you can't take a trip at this time, you can always armchair travel via the internet or a movie. Discussing this work on a social networking site could cause you to cross paths with someone who shares your love of a particular art form or artist. On the 12th, the Full Moon could make you quite emotional. You'll be ready to cut ties with a relative who is always overstepping their boundaries. Don't get defensive about this decision.

You're well within your right to limit their access to your personal life. The pressure will ease toward the end of the month, thanks to the New Moon on the 28th. An inheritance, royalty payment or insurance may arrive quite suddenly. Use this windfall to realise a career goal.

LEO July 24th - August 23rd Financial gain through a marriage, business partnership or investment deal could arrive early in the month. This is a good time to indulge your love of luxury. Splash out on a new outfit, fancy gadget or anything else that appeals to your sensual side. As the middle of January approaches, you could feel spiritually depleted because of a stressful Full Moon on the 12th.

Beware of a temptation to lash out at people who try pushing your buttons with teasing remarks. It's best to walk away from such provocateurs or better yet, avoid them altogether. The New Moon on the 28th is ideal for embarking on a partnership of some kind. You'll feel an instant connection with someone who doesn't look or sound like anybody else. As January draws to a close, avoid discussing sensitive topics like religion and politics. An argument could break out that does serious damage to a work relationship.

VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd Two heads are better than one in the early

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days of January. Spending quality time with a loving partner will strengthen your commitment. It will feel like you can move mountains with your beloved by your side. If you're single, you could meet someone special at a professional conference. Be ready to make the first move, as the object of your affection might be too shy to approach you. The Full Moon on the 12th will put strain on a friendship. You're tired of trying to keep up with lavish lifestyles. Instead of pushing yourself to buy more luxuries, focus on living within your means. You may not realise it, but your nearest and dearest might also be lying awake at night, wondering how to pay the bills. On the 28th, the New Moon could mark an exciting job offer. Not only will this position offer a lot of mental stimulation, but it will also have some impressive perks.

LIBRA September 24th - October 23rd The opening days are January are perfect for sprucing up your wardrobe or updating your look in some way. Keep all your receipts and don't undergo any procedures that will permanently alter your looks; with Mercury going retrograde until the 7th, you should keep your options open. The Full Moon on the 12th could find you facing off with an unbearable authority figure. Resist the temptation to quit a good job in a huff. Instead, quietly launch a job search. It's much easier to find employment when you already have a job.

By the time the New Moon rises on the 28th, you will get a terrific offer. Working for a company that places a strong emphasis on creativity will be the answer to a prayer. You'll get the full support of your best friend or romantic partner to pursue this line of work. Good things come to those who wait.

SCORPIO October 24th - November 22nd Love, adventure and leisure will characterise the opening days of 2017 for you. This is a wonderful time to go on a romantic trip with your amour, post a dating profile or launch a creative project. Work projects are destined to be revised during this period, due to Mercury retrograde, so don't pour too much energy into this area until the middle of January. On the 12th, the Full Moon will expose some gaps in your knowledge. Don't hesitate to ask for help and additional training. Nobody will look down on you for wanting to further your education. The New Moon on the 28th could allow you to work from home a few days each week. Avoiding a long commute and office politics will make you much more productive. If you've been thinking of relocating, check out an up and coming neighbourhood. You could find a great piece of property that dramatically increases in value.

SAGITTARIUS November 23rd December 21st The opening days of 2017 offer a welcome opportunity to recover from the Christmas season. Stick close to home, spending quality time with your relatives and pets. There will be plenty of time to hit the party scene later, when your body has had a chance to rest, relax and revive. The Full Moon on the 12th could have you scrambling to pay an unexpected bill. Take a deep breath and get in touch with your creditor; it may be possible to work out a payment program over an extended period. As January comes to a close, you'll

get some good news on the 28th. That's when the New Moon will help you reconnect with a fun-loving neighbour or relative. Together, you might book a trip or sign up for a course.

CAPRICORN December 22nd January 20th The opening days of the month will be pleasantly pleasing and relaxing allowing you to talk with upbeat people who bring out the best in you. If you're asked to join a discussion group or book club, you should accept. This organisation will be a continual source of intellectual stimulation and emotional fulfilment.

On the 12th, the Full Moon will put strain on a close relationship. You'll have to strike a better balance between your personal and professional lives to keep this romance alive. Stop erring on the side of your career all the time. The New Moon on the 28th will attract an exciting moneymaking opportunity that allows you to work from home. This arrangement is ideal. Spending more time with your family will deepen your love and appreciation for it. You'll also put less emphasis on professional matters. There is more to life than getting ahead. Relationships are more precious than gold.

AQUARIUS January 21st - February 19th You have a good chance of making money from your creative work in early January. This is a great time to show the fruits of your labour to an editor, talent agent or boutique owner. The income you earn from such work should be put toward a vacation or spiritual retreat you've been longing to take. The Full Moon on the 12th may prompt you to change your routine in a radical way. Quitting a job, starting a health regimen and breaking a bad habit are among the possibilities. By the 28th, you'll look like a brand new person. Use the energy of the New Moon to undergo a dramatic makeover. Changing your look will attract exciting opportunities. Don't be surprised when someone asks you to manage a social media campaign or launch a promotional effort. You know how to attract favourable publicity. Use this talent to pave the way to a successful career.

PISCES February 20th - March 20th All eyes will be on you in the early days of January. Your enhanced charisma will attract love, money and creative opportunities.

Take every opportunity to get out and about during the first two weeks of the month. On January 12th, the Full Moon might nag you into completing a creative project that you have left to gather dust for far too long. Rearrange your schedule to finish this work, as it has significant potential. The New Moon on the 28th could find you adopting a lower profile. Use this time to rest, relax and recharge your spiritual batteries. You'll be much more productive after you catch up on your sleep. Focusing on positive influences that fill you with hope will also be therapeutic. Do your best to avoid toxic people and tense situations in the closing days of January. You've always been highly sensitive to your environment. As a result, you should take every precaution to protect yourself from stress.

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New Year’s Resolutions You’ll Want to Keep

By Kate Duggan All too often New Year’s resolutions seem to focus on doing more of what we don’t enjoy, and less of what we do enjoy. So this issue, we thought we’d give you our suggestions for resolutions you’ll actually want to keep.

Learn something new Whether you want to get a qualification so you can get a better job, or you just fancy trying a new hobby, make 2017 the year you try something new. www.futurelearn. com is a good place to start. It offers hundreds of free, short online courses. Many are delivered by leading UK universities. You could try writing fiction, exploring digital technologies, or learning about forensic science. If you prefer faceto-face tuition, check out the courses offered by your local college. You could improve your computer skills, take up a new craft, or find out how to delve into your family history.

Enjoy time outdoors Nature is good for you. It’s been proven to help with depression, anxiety, stress and a whole lot of other issues. It may even help you to live longer. We know the great British weather doesn’t always make it the most tempting prospect. But if the sun breaks through the clouds, wrap up warm, pull your wellies on and head for your nearest green space. You’ll likely find you feel calmer and happier as a result.

Take time to cook Home cooked meals are usually much better for you than ready meals. They’re higher in vitamins and minerals, and lower in salt and sugar. So, try resolving to cook for yourself a few days a week. If you struggle to find the time, you could try a box scheme. Simply Cook, for example, post you the herbs, seasonings and recipes to make

simple (but delicious) meals in around 20 minutes. You just add four to six items of fresh food and follow the instructions. Hello Fresh go even further. They send you everything you need to make a meal, including simple-to-follow recipes.

Appreciate the little things We’re often so busy; we don’t get time to really appreciate the little things in life. A soak in the bath, your favourite radio programme, a chat with an old friend… Taking a moment to be thankful can make us happier and calmer, and improve our relationships. You could try listing three things that you’re grateful for before you go to sleep each night, or keeping a daily gratitude journal. Or just try to give thanks to the people you love a bit more often.

Whatever your New Year’s resolution, we wish you all the luck in keeping it.

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Kate

Adele Dear Emma, When we’re not busy making toys and wrapping presents, cooking up sweet treats we’re busy in the kitchen, for everyone in the North Pole. Now you’re 8, have baking Emma? you tried You can’t imagine the number of mince pies, Christmas Dear Kate, biscuits, candy canes and cakes we make. There are 18 gingerbread the Here athidden people I can’t believe in the picture. Can you find Dear Jemma, Are you excited? them all? you’re for all the and nice with giftsI hear far away now Jemma. list’ to make 5 now. Time you enjoy singing be a good Christmas Eve isn’t are busy helping to stack the sleigh I wonder girl and make sure you keep sure that flies. I’m just earlier. elves One day, I’m sure you’ll be what list that up. checking North Pole, the a gift for Megan you’ve brilliant! Maybe as good Adele will – I think I saw as Mrs Santa isMy treats? Definitely as good machine great on Christmas be on this been a good girl my ‘naughty at baking looks good boys and girls as tree me gives at your eating them; ho ho ho! sure The elves this year. year?

There me the up nicely to make It’s time to get the biscuits great at dancing.

We wrap them hats? Whohelp me work names of every you out of the oven, maybe you just like you are paper. it. Can and Lizzie can make experts at it now, eatCan on Christmas Day? After is my some you count little boy and and three with stripy to Chief morning. We’re all, you’ve been working hard Elf? them Kate? girl in the with spotty paper it! I can’t wait to visit again at schoolItsolooks you like deserve and drop off your goodies. are three presents How many world. at readin you’re on my that told Christmas, g nice list have blue Merry I’ve been find them? the world, books. It won’t Kate, probab you’re 3 now and and coming be long eating all your dinner. gift for you because ly becaus that you’ve been I’ve got a special But we’re to put all until I’ll be girl this year, and delivering e you’re so great of your you’ve been a good your friendsalways busy checki presents presents listen carefully all over under the ng names kindly. I’m sure to P.S. That’s great! tree.

Merry I hear you have a Frozen to see if get a move on! Be sure you Christm advent ringing! to do, so we best you’ve calendar! bells have. lots Have still you eaten your chocolate as still been I can’t There’s hear my sleigh today? wait! Can treating – you might just you? See on Christmas Eve you soon!

Merry Christmas, P.S. Well stories. done on helping I know he just mummy read badge at swimming! loves it! your brothe duckling your on getting r, Jack, his bedtim P.S. Well done Jemma proud. e and daddy are very I know mummy

Choose from eight magical designs!

© Photography by Alistair Hood. The children pictured are models.

with a Letter from Santa

30/09/2016 15:07

AUTO-BIOGRAPHIES Abarth 124 Spider

By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist

The Abarth 124 Spider is cast from the same die as the Fiat 124, and to improve it Abarth has used the same tactic as it did to change the Fiat 500 into the Abarth 595. In other words, it has added lithe looks, noise and, most importantly, muscle.

The Abarth 124 Spider uses the

same platform as Mazda’s MX-5 and Fiat’s 124. However, while the Fiat has been constructed to be more of a cruising vehicle, the Abarth is more hardcore – and the most performance driven of the three brands.

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The Abarth uses the same 1.4-litre,

four-cylinder turbo-charged petrol engine as Fiat’s 124 - except in the Abarth it produces 170PS, compared with the Fiat 124’s 140PS. The Abarth’s power unit spins with the proper Italian sports car vigour you’d hope for. It feels wayward and entertaining at high revs - and you’re aware of the

turbocharger when you push on.

The sports car is quick to respond and the gear change is rapid and exact.

The best thing about the 124 Spider, though, is the noise it makes. Popping burbles emit from the quad tailpipes when doing the 0-62mph gallop, as I found out testing the car at Silverstone Circuit, in Northamptonshire. The two-seater Abarth will reach the magical figure in 6.8 seconds, on its way to 143mph. Fold the roof, via a simple fastener, and the Abarth 124’s sound is even more delectable.

For an added dose of pleasure, the Abarth 124 has a Sport setting. Hit the button and things become louder, tighter and faster.

The throttle feels more insistent, and weight is also added to the steering, making you feel even more united with the road – or race track. The 124 Spider feels most pleased driven hard, with the tail-end hunkered down over the rear wheels. Even when you go too brutally into a bend and lose traction for a jiffy, the Abarth 124 continues to play nicely. Working out what the rump of the car is going to do soon becomes second nature.

On the whole, the Abarth 124 Spider is a grin maker, although your beam might falter for a moment when you see the pricetag - £29,565. Yes, it’s a large lump of cash, but once you’ve heard the melodious tailpipes, felt the performance and experienced the handling for yourself, you’ll appreciate that this car is worth every single bank note.

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PROS ‘N’ CONS • Appearance √ • Noise √

• Max. power (PS): 170

• Excitement √ • Licence loser X FAST FACTS • Max speed: 143 mph • 0-62 mph: 6.8 secs • Combined mpg: 44.1 • Engine layout: 1368cc 4-cylinder turbo petrol • CO2: 148 g/km • Price: £29,565

To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475 E: jeremy@mylocal-magazine.co.uk

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Gardening

Garden View This month - The Christmas cactus

By Rachel Leverton My local June 2015_Layout 1 28/05/2015 Christmas cacti are splendid plants. They pump out masses of delicate jungle flowers in rosy red, white, orange, pink, and pale yellow, depending on the variety, just in time for the festive season. they’re These 3 And stepsalthough will create the a true cactus,on their spines are so foundation which the new tiny andfor soft you’ll design mythat garden willbarely be based notice andinto never get that on andthem it will -take account pricked.

Also aslittle eachtime outer leaf I now have very to look produces its own flower the after it, so here are some of the display gets better year on year.

things I will be thinking about:

• How I cut down on the They arecan available in shops and garden centres right nowI need and are amount of weeding to justdo? perfect for those hard-to-buy-

14:58 Page 27 for souls. Also, according to my neighbour, who grows prize-winning cacti, they can live for 25 years or more so they’re the gift that just keeps on giving. care!on the •Christmas How cancactus I cut down amount of watering required in Light theChristmas summer?cacti are tropical which grow naturally in •epiphytes, How can I avoid spending time rain-forest trees. on staking? Choose a cool, bright spot, out of direct sun is best. will make mowing the •TryWhat an east-facing windowsill, and it lawn less time consuming? won’t know it ever left the jungle.

I’ll let you know what I do in the coming Humiditymonths.

They love a humid atmosphere so are best grown In the past few months, I haveon

plant of the month – geranium The leaves, covered in their unmistakable Geranium ‘fuzz’, may have a slightly odd smell about them but the burst of colour emitted from the flowers that shoot forth from these little plants more than make up for its shortcomings.

These are pretty tough plants and usually grow through any off the odd problems they may get such as late summer mildew or vine weevil larvae. Make sure they are planted in good sunlight and protect from cold.

Geraniums are happy both as indoor or outdoor plants and as they root easily from cuttings you can keep a good supply of plants on the go!

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a gravel tray. Fill a waterproof bowl with gravel then add water to half way up the gravel. Place the potted plant on top of the gravel.

Water As it’s tropical it’s less

drought-tolerant thanabout other how cacti to been writing a book species. thoroughly apply theWater Garden Equationthen for allow the top half-inch or inch of soil fellow gardeners to follow and its to dry out before watering again. title is, surprisingly, ‘The Garden Fertilizer As newto leaves Equation – how have appear a garden or when ower start to into swell, you love flthat fitsbuds beautifully applylifestyle’. a liquid fertilizer formulated your It will soon be for houseplants every 7 to 10 days available on my website. until the growth or flowering cycle

ends.

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K & J Driveways

Repotting Christmas cacti flower best when they’re pot-bound. Every year or so, gently pull the plant out Customer Satisfaction of its container and check the roots.

Guaranteed!

When roots start to mat where they touch the inside of the pot, move the plant into a container that’s an inch larger in diameter. Gently rough up the matted roots with a knife or fork before you repot.

After Christmas When flowering is over, keep and the plant indoors until Pattern Printed Concrete the weather warms in late spring.

New growthBlock tendsPaving to start in March.

If you particularly the plant Clean &want Re-seal, to flower Christmas then next all at types of Driveways November put the cactus in a place Call for are a FREE where nights cool Estimate: (about 10Find and there’s no artificial light.

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NEW FENCING

Gardening

My neighbour tells me that Christmas cacti are pretty forgiving souls and that even if you’re unsuccessful at inducing Christmas blooms you should be treated to regular flowering displays throughout the year. What could be nicer?

/Elite-Landscapes

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