My Local Magazine ®
Issue 80 | January 2018 | The BEST of Middlesbrough’s Business, News, Reviews and To-Do’s
Local Stories | Local Businesses | Gardening | Car Reviews Health & Beauty | Home | Horoscopes
IS IT DETOX
PAGE 14
TIME
MOTORING GT 0 MCLAREN 57 PAGE 22
GARDENING PAGE 27
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Keep Me for 2 Months
ADVERTISERS INDEX PAGE page 30 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 offers homeowners the opis spotless when we leave, portunity to maximise their and Value in that we offer storage space with a loft our services at a price people ladder, 50 sq ft of boarding can afford. Our business and a light all fully fitted in relies on referrals and we got less than a day from just a huge amount of our calls £277 + VAT. But it’s not just from people who have been the affordability of the pack- referred to us by our existing age the company offers that customers - that simply makes Yorkshire Loft Ladwouldn’t happen if we didn’t ders stand out as manager adhere to our overriding Mark Hodson explains: principles. 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 Mark 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
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EdITOR’S LETTER
Happy New Year! A few years ago someone asked me when we should stop saying Happy New Year. A Poll according to the Metro newspaper reckons that we should stop the greeting mid January. It becomes uwanted and insincere becasue most people want to settle into the New Year. This brings me onto New Years resolutions. I stopped overcomplicating this years ago. I didn’t start any. But I do have the odd goal here and there. The top three new years resolutions are: • Quit smoking. • Travel more • Get fit
stop the day after. Never happens. I decided to get fit a few years ago but I quit smoking instead.That was because I discovered that I couldn’t ride a bicycle for a mile with out stopping. If you have made any New Years resolutions I wish you well. If you are trying to stop smoking. I do feel your pain. Its hard. But take it in stages. 3 days, 3 months, 3 years. If you fail don’t concern yourself. I did it with help through the NHS. www.nth.nhs. uk/services/stop-smoking-service/ Best Wishes
The New Years resolutions that get broken before any...
CONTENTS
Quit smoking, travel more and getting fit. I can honestly say I have broken all in the past. Quit smoking resolutions I did actually last a whole ten minutes one year.You know the excuses. I’II
Features Recipe
@mylocalmag /mylocalmagazine
Jeremy Middleton Managing Director T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265 475 E: jeremy@mylocal-magazine.co.uk W: www.mylocal-magazine.co.uk My Local Magazines Ltd, Office 4, Walker House, 3rd Floor, High Street Stockton on Tees TS18 1BG 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 with 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 within 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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Is it Detox Time?
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Russell Grant
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Motors
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Gardening
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Trades
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Advertisers Index Page Trades
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Struggling with dentures? We can help Can you eat with confidence? Are you happy with how they look? Are you embarrased to smile? Chris Egan GDC 119949
will not only treat you personally in clinic, but he’ll also carefully handcraft your dentures from start to finish.
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Tastes so good...
Steak and Sweet Potato Chips February is the month of love. And a beautifully cooked steak is a wonderful way to have a romantic meal a deux, simply and easily. It’s not that hard to dish up a fabulous supper that is sure to please if you follow the simple instructions. Ingredients 2 x 200g sirloin steaks 350g sweet potatoes 1 tbsp rapeseed oil 50g bag mixed spinach, watercress and rocket Handful of cherry tomatoes
Coarse ground black pepper.
2 tbsp rapeseed oil
1/3 cucumber, sliced
For the dressing
½ small garlic clove, crushed
2 spring onions
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
Method 1. Preheat oven to 200c. Half fill a medium saucepan with water and bring to the boil. Add in the potatoes once chopped and cook for 4 minutes. Drain and return to the saucepan. Pour the oil over and season with a little black pepper. Toss until the potatoes are all lightly coated with the oil and seasoning. 2. Tip the potatoes onto a baking tray and cook for 15 minutes. Turn them all then cook for a further 10 minutes or until crisp and golden. 3. Whilst the chips are cooking, prepare your steak. Trim off any hard fat and then rub all over with the remaining oil. Season with 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper. Using a griddle or non-stick frying pan, put over a high heat and then add the steaks. Cook for about 2 minutes each side or done until your liking. 4. Set aside and mix the salad leaves, cucumber, chopped spring onions into a bowl. Whisk the vinegar, oil and garlic together. 5. Lovingly lay out the chips and steak onto your plates and add the salad to one side. 6. Drizzle with the dressing just before serving.
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To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475
05/01/2018 13:28:59
My local June 2015_Layout 1 28/05/2015 14:53 Page 3
how to save £1,000s and get a new kitchen in just 48 hours Buying a a new Buying new kitchen kitchen can can be be aa stressful experience. Highpressure stressful Highsales are sales followed lengthyby pressure are by followed lengthy delays, onemost of the delays, then onethen of the used most used rooms in is the homeout is rooms in the home totally totally out of week or of bounds forbounds a weekfor oramore. more. But customers customers in in the thenorth northeast east But have another option. option. A welcome welcome have alternative that that isis half half the the cost cost of of alternative an new kitchen, kitchen,can canbe be an average average new delivered delivered within withinthe themonth, month,and and fitted fittedininas as little littleas asaa day. day.
and complete if required appliances andkitchens complete kitchens all fitted –byallapproved local if–required fitted by approved local installers. A family-run installers. It is also part of a business owned by network Kevin andof national franchised Katrina it is also partthat of a Dream Clarke, Doors showrooms national network of stretchesfranchised all the way down to Dream Doors showrooms that Cornwall. stretches all the way down to Cornwall. “Major home improvement
From its showroom in Yarm, From its showroom Yarm, Dream Doors Teesideinsupplies Dream Teeside supplies time andDoors money-saving kitchen time and money-saving makeovers – as well as kitchen
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percentDoors deposit from Dream asks for customers just a 50 on order, and guarantees all its percent deposit from customers on order, and guarantees all its doors and work free of charge. doors and work free of charge. Customers Customersalso alsobenefit benefitfrom from dealing dealing with withlocal localbusiness business owners who are also part of a owners who are also part of a national brand. “Dream Doors is national brand. “Dream Doors is the UK's biggest name in kitchen the UK's Katrina biggest says. name “But in kitchen facelifts,” unlike facelifts. But unlike other national other national companies, companies,buy customers customers from us buy – thefrom us – the business and business owners –owners and we–know we know we'll the best we'll deliver the deliver best customer service.” customer service.” Contact kevin or katrina on Contact Jackie on 01642 924956 or visit 01642 646029 or visit www.dreamdoors.co.uk
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marriage, cuddle, affection, glamour, sentimental, emotion, heartthrob, wine, dine, seductive My Local Middlesbrough 2018-01.indd 11
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BEAUTY EXPERTISE Is it detox time?
The calm of January has finally arrived.The bustle and busyness of Christmas is behind us for another year, and this is typically when everyone starts talking about eating well and having a ‘dry January’! It’s always all about the “Detox” but it can’t be the same thing every year.Yes, there are many benefits to helping your body to detoxify and recover. However, it can’t all be non-stop juice detoxing, lets allow some sk-indulgence too!
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I’m a huge fan of dry body brushing as it has multiple benefits. It will stimulate the body’s lymphatic system to drain toxins away, exfoliate the skin to remove dead cells and the stimulation to the sebaceous cells will help the skin to hydrate itself. Mud wraps are a fabulous way to trigger the body to detox, and some people swear by them to help shift stubborn cellulite and fat on thighs and bottoms. At a time when we are trying not to touch the champagne there is no reason why we can’t indulge in a little vinotherapy! There are some exquisite treatments available that utilise this within indulgent body scrubs and wraps. There is an added bonus that they are warm and relaxing too, so perhaps a wonderful way to unwind after the festive whirlwind. We are now well into winter, a time which is tough on skin both on
your face and on your body. This is a good time to revisit the products you are using at home and targeting dry, flaky or itchy skin so that it is back in tip top condition before spring. If you think your skin needs something a little more advanced then get yourself booked in for a facial, your therapist should be able to create the perfect treatment to help with any dryness or sensitivity that become apparent at this time of year. New year resolutions about looking your best are not just for women – in my experience men are now pretty clued up about treatments and we see more and more of them dropping into the salon. Men’s skin can suffer just as much as women’s with shaving, central heating and cold winter wind so make sure you invest in a good moisturiser and cleanse your face well too. If you haven’t figured out what your new year’s resolutions are going to
be this year, make sure you include some ‘me time’ in them. After all, you can’t look after everyone else if you don’t take care of yourself too.
With over 20 years’ experience as a beauty therapist, Kelly Shaw’s passion and dedication to the industry has enabled her to achieve professional success as Spa Director for some of the world’s most exclusive global resorts. Founder of Kelly Shaw Consultancy Ltd and Hampshire’s multi awardwinning boutique salon k:SPA, Kelly also sits on the board for both CIBTAC and BABTAC British Association of Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology.
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For February 2018
AQUARIUS By Astrologer Russell Grant
ARIES (March21st-April20th) A friendly relationship could turn romantic on Valentine’s Day when someone you’ve known for years confesses a crush on you. This could be the beginning of a beautiful partnership. Mid-February could mark big changes on the social front for you, thanks to a Solar Eclipse on the 15th. It’s possible you will gain admission to an exclusive society. Rubbing elbows with exceptionally talented people will be stimulating. This could be your chance to acquire the cutting edge skills you need to succeed in a hi-tech field. The second half the month should be quiet, calm and reflective. Take this opportunity to catch up on your reading, take a few naps and commune with nature. Connecting with your spiritual side can help you deal with some old traumas that you experienced years ago. Now you have gained more insight, wisdom and perspective, you can overcome this deep pain. Stop letting others take control over your life. TAURUS (April21st-May21st) Don’t turn down an invitation to attend a glamorous Valentine’s Day party. If you’re single, you’ll have your choice of admirers. Are you already in a serious relationship? Your partner will be proud to show you off. Wear something eye catching that enhances your natural good looks. Basking in the spotlight could be the prelude to a passionate evening. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse marks an exciting career opportunity. Working with a team of pioneers will make you more adventurous. Instead of sticking to tried and trusted methods, you’ll be more willing to experiment with bold ideas. The later part of February will find you spending quality time with friends. Talking with other like-minded innovative individuals will inspire you to launch a creative project of your own. Be open to the helpful feedback you receive from similarly imaginative people. Their advice will help you turn some good work into an impressive masterpiece. GEMINI (May22nd-June21st) You’ll have a lovely Valentine’s Day, whether single or attached. If you’re footloose and fancy free, go out and have a good time with friends. Celebrating the love in your life will lift your spirits and get your creative juices flowing. Are you in a relationship? Your amour will encourage you to go after a cherished dream. Take their advice; their support will catapult you to success. The Solar Eclipse on the 15th could find 16
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you taking a trip that changes the course of your life. Alternatively, a publishing or broadcasting venture could bring you fame and acclaim. If you have a chance to earn an advanced degree, go for it.Your employer could cover the cost of your tuition. February’s final days may find you basking in the spotlight. Those you live and work with will be impressed with your artistic ability. Assuming leadership of a creative department will be rewarding. Your kind and caring approach brings out the best in the team. CANCER (June22nd-July23rd) Valentine’s Day presents a wonderful opportunity to get up close and personal with your amour. There’s a good chance you’ll get engaged or exchange vows at this magical time. If you’ve already made a commitment, you may decide to undergo a radical lifestyle change together. Moving to another country or starting a business together are among the possibilities. The Solar Eclipse on the 15th could mark a handsome windfall from an insurance policy, legal settlement or inheritance. Use this money to achieve the professional independence you’ve always wanted. As February draws to a close, you’ll yearn to expand your horizons. Going on an overseas trip, enrolling in an advanced course or gaining expert knowledge will lift your spirits. As a general rule, you prefer familiar vistas and comforting routines. That will change this month, when an urge for adventure prompts you to do something totally out of character. LEO (July24th-August23rd) A wildly romantic Valentine’s Day is in the cards for you. If you’re dating someone special, there’s a good chance you’ll get engaged or married. Are you single? You could meet someone special at a religious, cultural or educational event. Keep your eyes open for someone who marches to the beat of their own drum. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse marks an exciting turning point in a partnership. This is a great time to tie the knot or enter into a business agreement. The terms of this union will be unconventional, which helps emphasise your star power. The second half of February makes your love life sizzle with excitement. It will be difficult to contain your passion for someone who makes their entry into your world. If you’re in a serious relationship, your partner could get a windfall that allows you to travel in style together.Visit a city that is famous for its glamour and intrigue.
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VIRGO (August24th-September23rd) You’ll be looking especially nice on Valentine’s Day. Don’t be surprised when your amour finds it impossible to keep their hands off you. Are you single? You could meet someone special through your job. Keep your eyes open for someone with a friendly demeanour who is more interested in ideas than appearances. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse will inspire you to adopt a new health regime. Changing your diet, taking more exercise and getting more sleep will make you feel years younger. It will also increase your productivity and enhance your natural good looks. The second half of February marks a dramatic improvement in your love life. Getting engaged or married is a distinct possibility. If you are already in a serious relationship, your amour could get a raise. Their additional income means good news for you. Book a luxury holiday you’ve both wanted to take for years. LIBRA (September24th-October23rd) Valentine’s Day will be especially romantic for you. Whether you’re single or attached, you’re sure to have a lovely time with someone who greatly admires you. If you’ve had difficulty meeting interesting people, that could change after accepting an online request for a date. Do you have a partner? Your amour will have an exciting announcement that changes the course of your life together. Toast to your mutual good fortune. The Solar Eclipse on the 15th could bring surprising news of an engagement, marriage or pregnancy. Alternatively, it could mean you finally get the favourable publicity you deserve for your artwork. The second half of February finds you doing what you love and loving what you do. If you’ve been unemployed, you’ll be offered a rewarding job. Not only will you enjoy your responsibilities, but you’ll feel a deep affinity for your colleagues. One or two of them will become lifelong friends. SCORPIO (October24th-November 22nd) Treat yourself like royalty on Valentine’s Day. Getting a spa treatment, splashing out on creature comforts and enjoying a gourmet meal will make this one of the happiest days of the year. This is a golden opportunity to break out of a rut. When you treat yourself well, others will do the same. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse could mark an unexpected change in your home life. Moving to another neighbourhood, operating a business out of your home and living out of a suitcase are among the possibilities. There’s also a chance you could welcome a child or elderly relative into your home. Any addition to your household is destined to enhance it in a wonderful way. The final days of February will be highly romantic. If you’ve developed a crush on someone, ask them on a date. Are you dating someone seriously? You could get engaged or married. Single? You won’t be for long. SAGITTARIUS (November23rdDecember21st)Valentine’s Day will be fun and flirtatious. Going to a lively nightclub will put you in the mood for love.You’ll enjoy exchanging witty remarks with an intelligent, intriguing newcomer. Are you single? You’ll meet someone special on a group outing with friends. Play hard to get with someone who tries catching your eye. Being pursued is good for your ego. A Solar Eclipse on the 15th marks a big change in your daily routine. Having more time for creative hobbies
and sports will make your eyes sparkle with excitement. It will be such a relief to escape a demanding schedule that didn’t leave any room for fun. Late February invites you to take care of domestic matters. Finding a new place to live or making space for a relative or roommate are among the possibilities. Don’t be surprised when your restless energy eases with the approach of March. Staying home will actually be pleasurable. CAPRICORN (December22ndJanuary20th)Don’t be surprised when this Valentine’s Day is especially fulfilling. Someone who understands your deep desire to have a vibrant family life will make your dream come true. If you’re happy and single, take this opportunity to throw a festive party for friends. Bringing together your nearest and dearest will give everyone a much needed lift. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse will attract an unexpected moneymaking opportunity. Any hi-tech venture is destined to put more money in your bank account. If you’ve ever wanted to launch your own business, this would be an ideal time to so, as you’ll attract enthusiastic investors. The second half of February finds you reading, studying and learning. Expanding your knowledge will be a labour of love. It’s easy to absorb information when you’re learning about a fascinating subject. A supportive teacher will encourage you to develop your creative skills. Take their advice. AQUARIUS (January21st-February19th) You’ll have no trouble attracting admirers this Valentine’s Day. If you’re single, go on a date with someone who challenges your assumptions. Lively, spirited debates make you excited about the future. At long last, you’ve met a someone who engages both your mind and body. Are you already in a relationship? Your amour will have thrilling news. Go out and celebrate a publishing venture or favourable publicity. On the 15th, a Solar Eclipse will prompt you to revamp your appearance. Getting a different hairstyle, undergoing a cosmetic procedure or overhauling your wardrobe will be lots of fun. Everyone will treat you differently as a result of this change. Doors that were once closed to you will suddenly fly open. Don’t be surprised if you’re able to get a date with an elusive unexpectedly able to move forward on a whole host of fronts from love and romance to work and finance PISCES (February20th-March20th) Instead of having a lavish Valentine’s Day at a public place, you will prefer a candlelit dinner for two at a quiet little restaurant. Don’t be surprised if your amour gives you a lavish token of their affection. Are you single? You could meet someone special at a charitable organisation or spiritual group. Keep your eyes open for someone who is unusual and independent. The Solar Eclipse on the 15th is ideal for listening to your intuition. If you’re unsure which direction to take, sneak off to a private hideaway and turn your attention inward. A small, assured voice will tell you what to do. It’s also wise to pay careful attention to your dreams during the middle of February; they are urging you to take an untried path.Your charisma will be at an all-time high during the second half of the month. Make a sales pitch, ask for a date or request a favour.
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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
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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.
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INCENTIVES AND DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE. TO ARRANGE YOUR VISIT TO VIEW - CALL 01642 318 829
PART ExChANGE AVAILABLE UP TO 100% Of MARkET VALUE*
It has never been easier to move into a retirement apartment at Golden Living. Roseberry Mews at Nunthorpe is the perfect setting to enjoy a new lease of life. These stylish retirement apartments combine safety, convenience and easy management with the added benefits of privacy and your own front door key. We offer a number of ways to help make moving a simpler process. We could help sell your existing home at full market value with no estate agents fees to pay or, if part exchange* suits your circumstances more, we could even make you an offer for your existing property within seven days. Call in for a warm welcome and we’ll show you around our beautiful show apartments, gardens and residents’ lounge.
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Roseberry Mews, Guisborough Road, Nunthorpe, TS7 0PP Tel 0800 085 0855 Visit www. goldenliving.co.uk
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AUTO-BIOGRAPHIES New McLaren 570GT
The letters ‘G’ and ‘T’ are used far too often on cars. And, yes, I’m referring to a grand tourer rather than a gin and tonic. Some automakers think that by sticking a ‘GT’ badge on the boot lid it makes their product instantly irresistible. Many are wrong about that. But McLaren isn’t. Indeed, the 570GT is so far from wrong, it’s untrue.
result is the 570GT – a machine that’s as refined as possible without swapping for a smaller power unit and additional seats.
McLaren’s 570GT is one of the best cars the British firm makes and it’s undeniably the most multitalented sports car, too. You can probably tell I was utterly blown away with the 570GT when I tested it on British bitumen recently. Fundamentally, McLaren has taken the awesome 570S and has injected it with an extra dose of civility. The
The engine, normally on display in the McLaren 570S, is tastefully concealed under a leather floor in the 570GT. While, inside, the car gets extra soundproofing, softclose doors and electric heated seats. If that’s not enough to start justifying those letters ‘G’ and ‘T’, the 570GT is equipped with a more hushed exhaust system and softer
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The 570GT even looks like the 570S, but there are some major differences between the models. The latter’s flying buttresses have been replaced by curved bodywork that comprises a glass hatch. There’s a respectable 220-litres of load space under there, meaning the 570GT has a genuine practical edge to it. The car also has a glass roof that makes the cabin airy and full of mood-enhancing light.
suspension. The steering is also milder than the 570S’. These changes make the McLaren 570GT a car you could use every day. The ride is pliable enough to make our pothole-ridden roads bearable, and motorway cruising din is subdued enough so that your ears don’t bleed. But, just because you could use the GT on a daily basis doesn’t mean this is a lacklustre McLaren. Oh no. In every other way, the 570GT does everything else a full-fat McLaren does. And, most importantly, it looks one of the meanest, sexiest cars out there. It’s a major headturner, that’s for sure. With just a quick stab of the 570GT’s starter button, the twinturbo 3.8-litre V8 lump barks into life. Depress the gas pedal and the increase of velocity is hard-hitting, due to the 570 horses under the lid. And snapping up and down the
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cogs via the paddle-mounted gearsshifters is a real smile-inducer. Zero to 62mph is done in an insanely rapid 3.4 seconds, while the top speed is a licence-losing 204mph. Regardless of the additional luxuries added to the GT, this McLaren’s cabin stays broadly the same as in the 570S’. It’s a work of genius in contemporary sports car interior design and a long way from the chaotic button-fest of the Ferrari 488 or the unemotional ambience in Porsche’s 911 Turbo. You sit near to the ground but erect in the 570GT, so visibility is very good. And, as mentioned earlier, it’s comfortable enough to be used as a real-world form of transport. While the alterations from the 570S to GT could be seen as fairly minor, they make a substantial difference to the McLaren driving experience. The British sports car maker has constructed a machine that is as calm as possible, without kicking any of the theatre to the kerb.
PROS ‘N’ CONS
• Max speed: 204 mph
• Stunning Looks √
• 0-62 mph: 3.4 secs
• Unforgettable Drive √
• Combined mpg: 26.4
• Lightening Quick √
• Engine layout: 3799cc twinturbocharged V8
• British Built √ • Cost X FAST FACTS (McLaren 570GT - as tested )
• Max. power (PS): 570 • CO2: 249 g/km • Price: £154,000
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British Birds Word search
Find the hidden words in the word search grid
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curlew grouse tern robin nightjar
Word mix up Unscramble the letters to make a word
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Answers
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The Big Garden Birdwatch The Big Garden Birdwatch is RSPB to monitor trends and helps world’s largest garden wildlife us understand how birds are faring, Myand local June 2015_Layout 1 28/05/2015 14:58 Page 27 survey, and 2018 will mark its what potential issues they might 39th year. It is run by the Royal be facing. With results from so many Society for the Protection of gardens, they are able to create a Birds (RSPB) and will take place snapshot of the visiting birds at this on 27th , 28th and 29th January time of year across the UK. So even 2018. All we have to do is spend if you see nothing at all during your just one hour watching and Big Garden Birdwatch hour, that’s These 3 steps will create the • How can I cut down on the recording the birds in our garden important information too! www.rspb.org.uk/schoolswatch amount of watering required in foundation on which the new or a local green space.Then we the summer? The RSPB also asks participants to log design for my garden will be based Both the Big Garden Birdwatch and send our results to the RSPB. some of itthe they have on and willother takewildlife into account that •the How can I avoid spending time Big Schools’ Birdwatch are part Close to half-a- million people joined seen year. In 2018 on RSPB staking? I nowthroughout have verythe little time to look of the Giving Nature a Home in last year counting more than eight people to look out after it,are so being here asked are some of the will make mowing the •campaign. What This is aimed at tackling million birds and providing valuable for badgers, grey squirrels, less time consuming? things I willfoxes, be thinking about:red the lawn habitat-crisis facing the UK’s information about the wildlife using squirrels, muntjac deer, roe deer, frogs wildlife. Theknow charity is asking people I’ll let you what I do in the • How our gardens in winter. We’re all and toads.can I cut down on the coming months. to provide a place for wildlife in their amount of weeding I need to familiar with the sight of bluetits on a To take gardens or outdoor spaces:I have this could In the past few months, do?part in the Big Garden bird feeder or a cheery robin hunting Birdwatch 2018, participants should involve putting up a nest box for birds, for grubs but it might come as a shock watch the birds in the garden or local creating a pond for frogs, or building a to know that some of our most-loved park for one hour at some point over home for hedgehogs. species are in desperate need of our the three allocated days. Only the help because their numbers have There is a free Big Garden Birdwatch birds that land in the garden or local dropped dramatically. pack, which includes a bird park should be counted, don’t count cation chart, in plus advice to help Theidentifi leaves, covered their Species such as starlings and those just flying over. unmistakable Geranium ‘fuzz’, may you attract wildlife to your garden. greenfinches have seen their numbers There is also a parallel event; Big have a slightly smell about Text BIRD toodd 70030 or visit www. decline by 79 and 59 per cent Schools’ Birdwatch takes place which them but the burst of colour emitted rspb.org.uk/birdwatch. Registration respectively since the first Birdwatch fromopens the flowers shoot forth takes place during the period 2nd on 13th that December 2017. in 1979. January-23rd February 2018. Further from these little plants more than forHancock its shortcomings. Byup Tom 40 years worth of data allows the information about this can be found at make 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. Special rates for small Geraniums are happy both as & medium sizeplants dogs,and discounts indoor or outdoor as - Fri bookings. they for rootMon easily fromblock cuttings you : info@acklampetcare.co.uk can email keep a good supply of plants 01642 on the go! 822126 07877 060748
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ACKLAM TREE SERVICES
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Garden View
This month – Sniff! Sniff! No I don’t have a cold but this month I will be sniffing a lot. Mainly because of my winterflowering shrubs. Every garden should have a couple of plants which bravely open their petals while winter is doing its worst. Viburnum farreri or Viburnum x bodnantense ‘Dawn’ or ‘Deben’ are upright shrubs which bear pretty clusters of pink-buds on their bare branches, that open into honeyscented white flowers. They are incredibly tough, withstanding all but the harshest of frost. It’s lovely to cut a few sprigs to stand in a jam jar indoors. My favourite winter flowering shrub is the witch hazel plant Hamamelis mollis. It’s a delightful shuttlecockshaped bush that explodes with citrus-scented spidery flowers right about now. I have the orange ‘Jelena’ in my garden but the pale yellow ‘Pallida’ and the deep red ‘Ruby Glow’ are equally lovely. My dad had a wonderful winterflowering honeysuckle in his garden: Lonicera fragrantissima, which I
adored. A few years ago I discovered Lonicera x purpussi and fell in love. It has creamy white flowers and a really strong scent. Even if you have a tiny garden you’ll have room for a Christmas Box Sarcococca confusa. It produces white whiskery flowers from among its dark shiny evergreen foliage. I have two in pots on either side of my path and I’ve had people stop in their
tracks and return back towards the house sniffing, in search of the source of the amazing sweet, heady scent. And don’t forget that there are scented snowdrops and tiny Iris reticulata which are deliciously perfumed too. Time to get sniffing. Happy gardening. By Rachael Leverton
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Local Middlesbrough Builder Based in Acklam | No Sales Nonsense
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advertisers index
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