My local stockton January 2018

My Local Magazine ®

Issue 80 | January 2018 | The BEST of Stockton’s Business, News, Reviews and To-Do’s

Local Stories | Local Businesses | Gardening | Car Reviews Health & Beauty | Home | Horoscopes HIDY TRAVEL - TE K, R HOLIDAY PA CORNWALL PAGE 10

HE BRING ON T N OMBUDSMA PAGE 20

GARDENING PAGE 26

distributed by GPS Leaflet Distribution

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Keep Me for 2 Months

ADVERTISER INDEX PAGE page 30 1

www.mylocal-magazine.co.uk www.mylocal-magazine.co.uk | E: jeremy@mylocal-magazine.co.uk

05/01/2018 13:27:45

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!

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

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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 award-winning boutique salon k:SPA, Kelly also sits on the board for both CIBTAC and BABTAC - British Association of Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology.

To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475

05/01/2018 13:27:46

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

www.mylocal-magazine.co.uk | E: jeremy@mylocal-magazine.co.uk

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To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475

05/01/2018 13:27:48

EDITOR’S LETTER

arpets & homes

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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...

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

CONTENTS

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Happy New Year!

Features Is it Detox Time

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Recipe

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Travel - Tehidy Holiday Park, Cornwall

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Consumer Champion - Bring on the Ombudsman

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Russell Grant

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Celebrity Interview Clint Eastwood

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Gardening

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Trades

@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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Advertisers Index

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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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05/01/2018 13:27:49

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To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475

05/01/2018 13:27:50

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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05/01/2018 13:27:51

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To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475

05/01/2018 13:27:51

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Travel

Tehidy Holiday Park, Cornwall Tehidy is a small village in Cornwall, near Portreath, St Ives and the coast. It is a magnificent part of the world and a memorable family holiday awaits you at Tehidy Holiday Park.

“I have ploughed everything I have made back into the holiday park,” explains director Richard Barnes, who purchased the five-acre site 10 years ago and runs it with his family.

“It was pretty run down then and I set about updating it, even adding tarmac roads.” We speak during the height of the holiday season when he has 350 guests staying on site: camping, static caravans and in his selection of self-catering holiday cottages. “We keep being asked for larger cottages so we are renovating another one at the moment which will have all the bells and whistles.”

It is a value for money offering and guests even benefit from wi-fi.

There’s a play area and the site has been awarded a David Bellamy Gold Conservation Award, which acknowledges the mix of flower beds,

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Cornish hedges, trees, hedgerows, a small orchard, wildlife areas and wild flowers, scattered with wild strawberries for little fingers to find.

We stay in Lavender Cottage, a two-bed semi-detached stone built bungalow, with a slate roof. It provides comfortable accommodation for four. There are

five in the Saunders family but this doesn’t pose a problem because our children quite happily share a room. Harriett (6) and Heidi (4) each have their own bed while Henry (1) sleeps in his travel cot, which fits in between their beds without a problem. Caroline and I take the master bedroom with its double bed and doors onto the patio.

To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475

05/01/2018 13:27:53

“The county’s finest beaches are just minutes away,” says Richard. He is absolutely right. The first one we visit is at Portreath, 10 minutes away.

It’s an overcast day but that doesn’t matter, we enjoy the whole morning on the beach, paddling and making sandcastles and then have a packed lunch. We have to work our day around Henry’s sleep patterns and after lunch he likes a nap so most days we all pile into the car and head on road trips taking in St Ives and Penzance. At St Ives the weather takes a turn for the worse and Harriett and I have left our coats at the ranch but we brave it. We enjoy a walk around the seaside town and even make some pebble sculptures on the beach. We are all thoroughly sodden but it doesn’t matter we are having a great time. It’s such an arty place with so much character from its narrow roads and historic architecture. Penzance is bigger and home to national retailers but still a good place to visit.

We discover the best beach of all on our last day. It’s Porthtowan.

A beautiful sandy beach and some great waves. We spend the whole day at Porthtowan, paddling, messing about in the sand and watching the lifeguards manage a huge crowd of surfers. There’s also a play area and some shops so an ideal day out for the young family.

For those of us not hardy enough to swim in the sea, Kernow Hydro, a wonderful warm saltwater pool can be found at Portreath. Owner, Fiona established it a couple of years

ago and has just celebrated paying off her £50,000 loan. The children especially enjoy splashing around in the warm water. After our swim we sit in the café and tuck into some of the best pasties we have eaten. A great experience. As always Cornwall creates some wonderful memories.

For more information visit: www. tehidy.co.uk Tim Saunders is an author, journalist and businessman. He meets celebrities, goes on holiday and road tests cars.

www.mylocal-magazine.co.uk | E: jeremy@mylocal-magazine.co.uk

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7. Scrooge-Like (5,8)

1. Withered (4)

8. Treat (8)

2. Charge (6)

9. Infiltrator (4)

3. Raiment (7)

10. Beguiled (7)

4. Taunt (5)

12. Application (5)

5. Gland (6)

14. Sphere (5)

6. Pre-Smart Phone (8)

16. Circular (7)

11. Gravy Train (5-3)

19. Footwear (4)

13. Arbiter (7)

20. Capsize (8)

15. Honorary Rank (6)

22. Driving Aid (5,8)

17. Impending (6) 18. Lichen covered (5)

21. Circlet (4)

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To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475

05/01/2018 13:27:53

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.

www.mylocal-magazine.co.uk | E: jeremy@mylocal-magazine.co.uk

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Love & Romance Word search

Find the hidden words in the word search grid

love heart passion charm flirt

fancy darling kiss valentine fun

happy cupid blush snuggle desire

Word mix up Unscramble the letters to make a word

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marriage, cuddle, affection, glamour, sentimental, emotion, heartthrob, wine, dine, seductive My Local Stockton 2018-01.indd 14

Answers

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To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475

05/01/2018 13:27:56

Mayor opens new fashion boutique in Stockton A NEW fashion boutique in Stockton Town Centre has been officially opened by the Mayor of Stocktonon-Tees, Councillor Maurice Perry.

Located adjacent to Poppys hair salon in Silver Court on Silver Street, The Boutique at Poppys adds to Stockton’s Cultural Quarter with a stunning collection of women’s clothing and accessories.

With many years in the hair fashion industry, directors Janice Auton and Vicki Murray are using their skills and experience to offer a destination fashion boutique – the first of its kind in Stockton.

The range of outfits includes something special for occasions, evening wear, race days and weddings among many others. Every day wear is also catered for and customers are able to put together a full look with hair style tips, cuts and colours with a visit to the salon.

Vicki Murray, Director of Poppys

Hairdressing, said: “Listening to our customers, we understand that it can be a challenge to buy clothes for special occasions or general wear that show your individual style and make you feel great. This inspired us to bring a constantly evolving collection to the market that, coupled with our industry experience of colour, shapes and hair styles, will bring out the beauty in everyone.

“We feel very confident the boutique will be a success in Stockton Town Centre with all of the great work being done in partnership by the Council and Stockton Business Improvement District.

“We chose to open last weekend to also celebrate Small Business Saturday which highlights the success of small businesses and encourages people to shop local and support them.”

The Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees said: “It was a pleasure to open this new boutique which will add something really different on offer in the town centre and it is great Poppys have chosen to expand their business here.”

The boutique is complemented by a website where customers can browse and buy what is in store. It is also includes a selection of Poppys stylists’ favourite hair tools and products available for purchase.

For more information visit www. theboutiquepoppys.co.uk or email hello@theboutiquepoppys.co.uk

www.mylocal-magazine.co.uk | E: jeremy@mylocal-magazine.co.uk

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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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05/01/2018 13:27:58

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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Winte r Offe Selling r Fee

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To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475

05/01/2018 13:28:00

Happy at Home The start of a New Year. Fresh, clean, unspoiled. Even more anticipation than the start of a new day.

There’s a tendency to start piling on the pressure. Resolutions, house cleans, habit breaking, socialising, more, less .... it’s as though the indulgences from Christmas force us to suddenly go all sensible and boring and strip the fun out of things, whilst creating an endless to do list that becomes a weight around your soul.

I learned the hard way last year that constantly multi tasking, pushing to do more, more, more does not necessarily get you where you want to be. Sure, you put in more effort and you’re more likely to get the results but only do this if it is not to the detriment of your health. I ignored all the little symptoms for far too many years. Allowing each January to be the reason to set up a new batch of challenges that I was determined to stick to. Creating endless tasks and dates to hit which would become a metaphorical map for my year ahead.

Half way through January 2017 I chucked that map in the bin and realised I could do none of it.

My body finally said stop. My head couldn’t keep up with much more than one little thing at a time. I had no other choice than to literally spend two weeks in bed followed by many months recovering. What was wrong with me? The doctors could only explain it as some sort of post viral fatigue. But I knew, deep down, that what had happened was a result of years of ignoring myself. Pushing both my mind and body to the limit and not getting enough rest, self love, good food and simply putting our responsibilities and goals ahead of absolutely everything else. And as a result I couldn’t keep it up any more and instead of another year of ignoring it, I was stopped in my tracks by myself.

So now, sitting at the dawn of another new year what lies in store? Well, I’m pleased to say that a huge amount has changed. But not in a great list-making kind of way. It has happened gently. Changes have flowed. Admittedly there were hard lessons to learn on my new journey. But these tough, sometimes sharp stings were soon followed by a sense of calm and better understanding of a new type of life. One that involves being more focussed on the present, and less on what might happen. One that involves things that may have no real purpose, like cross-stitch, but nonetheless bring a good deal of pleasure. And one that has allowed me to see into the web of my world with far more clarity and peace than I have done before. There is still a lot to learn but I’ll do it with a different perspective and one that doesn’t make me ill again!

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CONSUMER CHAMPION Bring on the Mega Ombudsman!

If you’ve made a complaint but you’re still not happy, where do you turn when things go wrong (after Resolver, of course)?

The answer’s simple – go to an ombudsman.

Ombudsmen (and women) are best thought of as experts in their various fields and are a bit like judges. When you make a complaint to them, they don’t just look at the legal stuff, they are able to look at what’s fair and reasonable. If an ombudsman agrees with your case they have lots of ways to make things right, including telling businesses to pay compensation.

We love ombudsmen at Resolver.

They’re free, fair and fabulous.

But when it comes to using different ones, there can be some frustrations, both for me and for people using them.

Martin Lewis and the team at MoneySavingExpert recently released a report written in partnership with the Government which took a look at all of the existing ombudsmen. It’s a really interesting read and I must say, I agree with all the key points – and one in particular.

Not all ombudsmen are created equal. For example, Ombudsman Services and the Financial Ombudsman – who can look at money matters, energy, communications and more – have sweeping powers and are a real force for good, helping millions of people. But other schemes don’t have the same powers, which means that businesses in some sectors aren’t being held to account properly when they get things wrong.

One of the big problems with having a different kind of service with varying rules for every business sector (from parking to pensions) is 20

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it can be really confusing if the rules between schemes are contradictory.

Many people suggested that having a bad experience with one ombudsman scheme meant they were less likely to use any ombudsman. That really worries me –unresolved complaints leave a bitter taste in the mouth.

Ombudsmen are important for lots of reasons. Knowing we’ve got somewhere to turn if something goes wrong actually helps us have more faith in certain industries. In many ways, ombudsmen are our safety net – we aren’t guaranteed to get what we want, but we should get a fair hearing.

Even though having a free way to get a complaint resolved is great, it’s important to revisit the powers these schemes have and ask, ‘can we do this better?’

At the moment, if you make a complaint the business usually has 8 weeks to resolve the matter (some have much longer periods).

It’s one thing to standardise this timescale to 8 weeks for everything.

But the report goes further. It correctly points out that with modern technology, 8 weeks is far to long for most complaints. Why not radically reduce that time? I also believe it’s really important to

publish as much as possible about the complaints ombudsmen receive, so we can all see what firms are getting right – and wrong.

As far as I’m concerned, it’s clear that every industry needs an ombudsman. Each ombudsman should have the same powers and should be able to make firms cough up compensation where it’s appropriate.

It’s not a big stretch to introduce this ‘gold standard’ for all ombudsmen everywhere. And in just the same way that I’ve worked hard to make the process of making a complaint simple and the same for everything, it’s time to focus on what happens if you want to take things further. Bring on the mega ombudsmen! The nation needs you!

What do you think? What powers should ombudsmen have – and where do we need one most?

You can find out more about your rights or make a complaint using Resolver for free at www.resolver. co.uk. Or view our Twitter page @ WalkerResolver @resolvercouk or go to facebook.com/resolvercouk

To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475

05/01/2018 13:28:03

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To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475

05/01/2018 13:28:05

Watch as giant machine drills foundations for Stockton’s new Hampton by Hilton hotel STANDING more than 25 metres tall, a giant drilling machine has arrived to sink the foundations for Stockton’s new Hampton

by Hilton hotel.

The towering machine is making its mark on the skyline as it installs the hotel’s deep ‘pile’ foundations.

As our video shows, the process involves drilling to depths of up 25 metres while pouring reinforced concrete to create the columnshaped foundations on which the hotel will stand.

Hotel 'will bring a famous global brand to the town' The new Hampton by Hilton hotel will be Hilton’s first in the town, and will be owned by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council.

The Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Housing, Councillor Nigel Cooke, said: “It’s great to see construction of the hotel progressing really well and there’s no more obvious sign of that than the arrival of this impressive machine on site. It won’t be long before the steelwork starts taking shape too.

“This hotel will bring a famous global brand to the town, attract £6.7million per year into the local economy, and will be welcomed with open arms by local businesses and the Chamber of Commerce, who have expressed overwhelming support for it.

“It will also complement the restoration of the Globe, our world-class events programme and, combined with our award-winning High Street, ensure the town centre remains an attractive place to visit and invest.

“There are several viewing points dotted around the site perimeter

On site to see the hotel's foundations go in are (left to right), Bowmer & Kirkland's Darren Stoker, the Council's Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Housing, Councillor Nigel Cooke, Marie Liddell of the Homes and Communities Agency, Alan McBride, of Muse Developments, Neil Holland, of Hilton, and Simon Dew, of Muse Developments. fence so you can even come along and take a look at how it’s progressing yourself.”

What do the others involved in the project think?

The 128-bed hotel is being built by construction contractor, Bowmer & Kirkland, on the former dairy car park site.

The site forms part of the mixed-use Northshore regeneration scheme, incorporating new offices, homes and leisure facilities near Stockton town centre.

The 56-acre, £300million scheme is a partnership between Muse Developments, the Homes and Communities Agency and Stocktonon-Tees Borough Council.

Simon Dew, of Muse Developments, said: “It was a pleasure to join our project partners and celebrate this early milestone in the construction of Stockton’s new Hampton by Hilton hotel.

“This major investment will complement the successful phases of development at Northshore delivered to date and the Council’s ongoing investment in the adjacent

town centre.

“This development will further add to the vibrancy of Stockton and we are looking forward to seeing construction progress over the coming months.”

Marie Liddell, Head of Public Land at the Homes and Communities Agency, added: “The start of work on the Hilton is fantastic news since it will help connect Northshore with the town centre, as well as complement the other developments on the site.”

While Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, EMEA, Hilton, said: “Nearly 60 UK towns and cities are now home to one of our hotels. Widely available in the UK, Hampton by Hilton taps into the need for modern hotel accommodation to suit a variety of travel needs.

“The Council’s ambition and the award-winning regeneration of the nearby High Street are extremely impressive. With a host of large companies located in the Tees Valley area, we expect the new hotel to lead the market.”

www.mylocal-magazine.co.uk | E: jeremy@mylocal-magazine.co.uk

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Celebrity Interview Ken Dodd by Tim Saunders

“Never live in the past even if it’s cheaper,” quips Sir Ken Dodd, who celebrated his landmark 90th birthday in November. He reveals that he will continue to do two gigs every week and 100 a year. “I used to do 400.”

“Always look to the future,” he recommends. “My toenails are 90 but my brain is 21. When you wake up in the morning at 90 you thank God for allowing you to live so long and for giving you such an adventurous life. I’m very grateful.”

A self-confessed chatterbox the nonagenarian still introduces his audiences to six new gags per show.

“If two or three get a laugh you’re doing very well,” admits Ken, who returns to the stage for the sheer thrill of the experience. “You can never predict an audience. You have to learn to read them very very quickly. There is a lot of creativity in being a comedian.”

The king of the one-liners looks forward to doing shows “because I love playing an audience”. “Some men go fishing and some men play snooker, I’m stage struck, I just love doing shows; it’s my life.”

Knighted earlier in the year by Prince William at Buckingham Palace has added to Ken’s happiness. “It hasn’t changed me at all - I am the same Ken Dodd that I always was; I still put the same underpants on everyday… well not the same underpants. It is delightful.

My family and friends all think it is wonderful. What I am very pleased about is that they have given this recognition to someone from show business; my type of show business; I am a variety entertainer. It really means a variety of skills. I’m here to 24

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fly the flag.”

Full to bursting with infectious enthusiasm and a zest for life, he says: “I’d like to live to be 190 because there are so many things to see, so many people to meet, so many things I’d like to do and places to visit.”

Another ambition is for a Ken Dodd Archive because with his love for the written word, he adores books.

“I get told off; if I buy another book my fine lady threatens that she will have me put away! I must have 100,000 books. I have a house and two little cottages and they’re all full of them. I have a passion for buying books particularly anything to do with show business. Some of which I have read and some that I plan to read and some that I will never read.”

As a youngster he was offered a junior reporter’s job at the Liverpool Evening Express but a career in journalism was not as appealing as comedy.Aged 14, Ken was intrigued to discover how a joke was produced. “A joke has a surprise ending; a tag we call it.

You are drawn into psychology and you start reading all the books on it by the philosophers such as Schopenhauer and Freud.

Now Freud did very well with his jokes. He had a book called Jokes and their Relationship to the Unconscious. Freud came up with this wonderful formula: the acquisition of the psychic economy.

Unfortunately, Freud never played Saturday night at the Empire, which makes a big difference believe me!

Practically every psychiatrist and every psychologist that drew breath from Freud, Schopenhauer - there’s a whole list - they all have a different theory about why we laugh and it’s a fascinating and obsessive kind of study.”

He has lived at Oak House, Knotty Ash (built in 1782) all his life. Passed down from his grandmother, he has enhanced the interior and plans to do the same with the garden.

Tim Saunders is an author, journalist and businessman.

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

To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475

05/01/2018 13:28:06

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The Big Garden Birdwatch The Big Garden Birdwatch is world’s largest garden wildlife survey, and 2018 will mark its 39th year. It is run by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and will take place on 27th , 28th and 29th January 2018. All we have to do is spend just one hour watching and recording the birds in our garden or a local green space.Then we send our results to the RSPB. Close to half-a- million people joined in last year counting more than eight million birds and providing valuable information about the wildlife using our gardens in winter. We’re all familiar with the sight of bluetits on a bird feeder or a cheery robin hunting for grubs but it might come as a shock to know that some of our most-loved species are in desperate need of our help because their numbers have dropped dramatically.

Species such as starlings and greenfinches have seen their numbers decline by 79 and 59 per cent respectively since the first Birdwatch in 1979.

40 years worth of data allows the RSPB to monitor trends and helps us understand how birds are faring, and what potential issues they might be facing. With results from so many gardens, they are able to create a snapshot of the visiting birds at this time of year across the UK. So even if you see nothing at all during your Big Garden Birdwatch hour, that’s important information too!

The RSPB also asks participants to log some of the other wildlife they have

seen throughout the year. In 2018 people are being asked to look out for badgers, foxes, grey squirrels, red squirrels, muntjac deer, roe deer, frogs and toads.

Schools’ Birdwatch takes place which takes place during the period 2nd January-23rd February 2018. Further information about this can be found at www.rspb.org.uk/schoolswatch

To take part in the Big Garden Birdwatch 2018, participants should watch the birds in the garden or local park for one hour at some point over the three allocated days. Only the birds that land in the garden or local park should be counted, don’t count those just flying over.

Both the Big Garden Birdwatch and the Big Schools’ Birdwatch are part of the RSPB Giving Nature a Home campaign. This is aimed at tackling the habitat-crisis facing the UK’s wildlife. The charity is asking people to provide a place for wildlife in their gardens or outdoor spaces: this could involve putting up a nest box for birds, creating a pond for frogs, or building a home for hedgehogs.

There is also a parallel event; Big

There is a free Big Garden Birdwatch pack, which includes a bird identification chart, plus advice to help you attract wildlife to your garden.

Text BIRD to 70030 or visit www. rspb.org.uk/birdwatch. Registration opens on 13th December 2017.

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To advertise call Jeremy T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265475

05/01/2018 13:28:08

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.

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05/01/2018 13:28:17

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