Town & Village Life Magazine - July 2014

TOWn & VILLAGE LIFE Magazine

July/August 2014

Win Tickets for Top Hat at The Grand Theatre TOWN & VILLAG E LIFE MA GA Z INE

July/august 2014

Delivered to areas of: Hagley, West Hagley, Stourbridge, Pedmore, Oldswinford, Norton, Wollaston, Amblecote, Wordsley, Kingswinford, Lawnswood, Wall Heath, Kinver, Bobbington, Heathton, Stourton, Enville, Swindon, Himley and Sedgley

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Contents

Hello Readers, I must confess I greet you for this latest edition with a very heavy heart indeed, with news of England’s shock exit from the World Cup still ringing in my ears.

The Dudley Family

8/9

Louise Presley Turner – Life Coach

10

Kinver Country Fayre has the Edge

14

Stourbridge Rugby Club

16

Italian Lakes

18

The Grand Theatre Competition

24

which you can rely, namely Town and Village Life magazine and all of the goodies contained within the forthcoming pages. All the requisite tips on beauty and hair, as well as help on which local businesses to choose in your pursuit of the perfect look for summer. Not to mention top advice from personal stylist and self-styled ‘wardrobe consultant’ Sharon Dickens. Then there’s advice on where to go and what to do once you are looking your very best.

And why not start by visiting The Kingfisher Hotel; there’s a little bit of everything there, from function facilities, entertainment events and a very exciting new tapas menu too. So now you’re looking your best, you’ve been wined and dined - what’s left to be done? Why, a night out at Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre, that’s what.

The landmark venue is this year celebrating its 120th anniversary and has arranged some bumper extravaganzas during its time on Lichfield Street, hosting such luminary lights as Gilbert and Sullivan’s lavish productions and shows no sign of slowing down with upcoming shows like Dirty Dancing and Top Hat. Hats off to them!

Crosswords and Puzzles

26

Recipe of the Month

30

Quarry Bank Musical Society

34

Blinds and Shutters

40

Kinver Rotary

48

Golfers Chip in to Support Charity

48

Garden Style with Substance

52

Gardening with Ann Winwood

54

Exciting Times at the Vineyards

57

Al Fresco Dining

60

Enjoy your read...

Look Beautiful on the Beach

Being an optimistic chap, fond of a flutter and keen to always put stock in the most unorthodox ways of prognosticating victory (see: Paul the octopus at the last World Cup), I’d hoped to keep my intro light and breezy; with the nation’s footballing fate still in the balance. Damn you, Suárez!

Oh well. There are far more important matters on

Geoff

TOWN & VILLAGE

LIFE M AGA Z I N E

Town & Village Life Magazine Ltd Lytham Rd, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY Tel: 01902 744217 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Advertising enquiries

Email: sales@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk Gisella Wiley - Sales Director

Editorial/What’s On information

Email: info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk Geoff Hall - Editor Magazine design: Studio 28 (www.s28.co.uk) We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Town & Village Life magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, The Publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert or editorial. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Town & Village Life magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise without the prior consent of Town & Village Life magazine Ltd.

Food Review at The Bentlands Wolverhampton Racecourse Invests in new Racing Surface The Grand Theatre 1894 – 2014

62/63 64 70/71 78

Women’s Fashion – Swimwear Looks you’ll Love 82/83 Protect your Hair this Summer

84

Social Scene

94-97

Golf Tip

104

Men’s Fashion – Feeling Hot Hot Hot

106

The first-ever BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

108/109

Animal Matters – Toyota GT86

112

Answers to Crossword & Puzzles

114

Congratulations to: Winners of Happy Days competition at The Grand Theatre Jackie Haden, Kingswinford Joyce Hutchins, Wordsley Patricia Layton, Pedmore Winner of the Superb Sparkling High Tea competition at Halfpenny Green Vineyards Anne Langford, Kinver

*Total distribution 15,500 copies bi-monthly

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Three Pines Building Contractors: Built on Solid Foundations Top Wolverhamptonbased building contractor Three Pines has been in business since 1960.

Since then the firm has laid down solid foundations in both the commercial and domestic sector, working with prominent clients like BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Caterpillar and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC. But that doesn’t mean they are too big to come and work for you.

It’s a classic case of ‘no job being too big or small’ as owner and Managing Director Alan Bradshaw, explains: “Whether you require refurbishment, extensions or a new build, Three Pines has the skills and expertise to handle your project from planning through to completion.

“We’ll undertake the smallest of maintenance work right up to the large contracts required for big business.”

And the company has been busy making some changes

at its headquarters in Cullwick Street, Wolverhampton too: “We’ve recently added an extension to our offices, to make room for a brand new estimating department and board room, as well as a purpose-built space for our potential and existing clients.”

The changes have coincided with the company’s Contracts Manager, Neil Lerigo, joining Alan and Louise Bradshaw and Graham Haughton as company directors.

“Neil has worked for Three Pines for nearly 5 years and we’re delighted that he is now on-board as a director.”

If you’re keen to start making some changes at your home or business, then it’s time to contact the Three Pines team: “We’ll give assistance throughout the whole process, we can help you to find a qualified architect to draw up building plans and offer guidance when applying for planning permission.”

“We are completely considerate of the care and understanding needed when working on projects in both domestic and commercial sectors.”

You can also be reassured that the tradesmen working for you will be well-known to the company, as many have been working for the long-established family-run business for their entire career.

Plus, there will be no hidden costs: “We’ll give you an accurate quote and that is the price you pay.

If you have a change of mind during the build we will advise you of any price increases before changes are implemented. ” Over the years Three Pines has grown considerably in both the size and scope of its workforce and operation. The attainment of CHAS accreditation was a major boost for the company and is added to the membership of Constructionline, Federation of Master Builders and National Federation of Builders.

Exciting plans are underway though, as the company has teamed-up with Hovi Developments, to undertake a new joint venture into residential development, details of that will soon be revealed: “We hope that the partnership will lead to many exciting new build ventures,” adds Alan.

The team at Three Pines Building Company head office

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Whatever your building requirements, contact Three Pines today for a professional and friendly service from a local company you can trust. town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Whether you require refurbishment, extensions or new build, Three Pines are building contractors in Wolverhampton, who have the skills and expertise to handle your project from planning through to completion.

• Over 50 years of experience in construction • Commercial & Domestic developments undertaken • Fully qualified carpenters & bricklayers employed by the company for over 20 years • Care & consideration taken on all domestic & commercial projects • Professional & Friendly service

www.three-pines.co.uk Cullwick Court, Cullwick Street, Wolverhampton WV12 2UR Tel: 01902 499919 Email: info@three-pines.co.uk

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The Dudley Family By Rob Taylor ‘I wandered lonely as a cow,’ wrote William Wordsworth.

“Oh, no, he didn’t,” come the cries from the literary leviathans among you - or at least those of you who didn’t sleep through ‘Day one, Page one’ at secondary school.

So now before the ‘quick-toput-pen-to-paper brigade’ light up our editor’s inbox with all incumbent corrections, let me first say this: William Wordsworth wanted it that way and, had his pushy sister Dorothy not got in the way, we’d have seen his famous poem flop faster than a suicidal cow from a cloud.

“Oh dear Willy, that’s ever so silly,” may have been her riposte, but we’ll never know. Sisters eh?

Many of us have them. Those who have only brothers lament the lack of domestic femininity which isn’t matriarchal. Those who have them know that they can be a monumental pain.

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Believe me, they don’t always save the day, because today it’s pain I feel as I polish off a hefty lump of chocolate, slurp a cuppa from my novelty mug - how many more variations on ‘Keep Calm and Carry on…’ can there be? - and try to concentrate. ‘Keep Calm and Carry on making a fortune from milking a single witless idea’, I mutter under my breath.

That’s right an ill-timed and unannounced visit from dearest sis can do untold damage to deadlines, concentration and hitherto satisfactory sibling simpatico. So imagine having seven of them?

Well I don’t know/ Google can’t think of anyone of note who’s ever had that many, so I want to talk about the Seven Sisters mines at Wren’s Nest, north-west of Dudley town centre. We all know about Cheddar Gorge and caves in - you’ve guessed it - Cheddar, Somerset; in fact many of you will have visited the ancient natural

labyrinthine cave network, which draws tourists from around the world. But did you know that there is a limestone cave and mining tunnel network also of worldrenown in our very own backyard?

The Wren’s Nest Nature Reserve is of landmark importance for its Silurian coral reef fossils, is studied by scientists from around the world and is widely considered to be one of the most diverse and abundant fossil sites in the UK. Quarried extensively for limestone during the Industrial Revolution (up to 20,000 tonnes per annum at its peak), the hotspot was first studied scientifically

by Scottish paleontologist Sir Roderick Murchison in 1839.

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

However, unlike in Cheddar, the tunnel network proved to be too unstable and its entry points were filled in, following partial collapse in 2001. A bid for the People’s Millions £50 million lottery jackpot to help totally regenerate the underground network into an tourist attraction failed in 2007, with funds going to Sustrans cycling project instead.

Yet undaunted by the fluorescentlycoloured spandex-botherers riding off with the cash, Dudley Council later trousered £800,000 for a more modest - ‘Ripples through Time’ development to the site, just a year later. Whether it’ll create ripples in geology akin to the mighty ripples created by Wordsworth’s poetry remains to be seen.

But it’s not just sisters for which Dudley is famous: Dudley has its famous sons also. There’s none finer than TV funnyman Lenny Henry; not always the face of Travelodge, the Comic Relief cofounder was born at Burton Road

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Hospital, Dudley, in 1958 and was a pupil at the Blue Coat School.

With ex-wife and comedienne Dawn French at his side, he quickly established himself as a leading light on the fledgling alternative comedy scene in the mid-eighties, before making the switch to mainstream TV with hits like the Lenny Henry Show. Check him out playing the eponymous, madcap genie in 1991’s Bernard and the Genie, with Alan Cumming and Rowan Atkinson. He attained his ‘CBE status’ in 1999.

And since there’s much World Cup fervour around at the moment, it’d be remiss to forget another of the town’s elite, legendary England and Manchester United footballer Duncan Edwards. A victim of the infamous Munich air crash in 1958, this “Busby Babe” was born in the Woodside district of Dudley in 1936 and grew up in Elm Street on the Priory estate.

He was quickly talent-spotted at school, aged only 12, by Manchester United scout Jack O’Brien, who hailed him to top dog Matt Busby as “the future.”

The rest now is history, however.

Although his name is still alive in the town, with a remembrance ceremony taking place last year to honour the 55th Anniversary of his death. Edwards won three league titles with United and garnered 18 England caps.

In a footballing world today full of over-paid, manicured ponces in designer outfits, his legend rightly stands apart.

Of course not all of Dudley’s family walk on two legs, as Dudley Zoo is home to some of the finest animal species this side of an Attenborough documentary.

There’s everything on display from alpacas to wallabys at the sprawling site on Castle Hill.

Here it’s four legs, good; two legs, good, despite what Orwell might say.

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How about a staycation

this summer? areas, just like you would on a traditional holiday. This makes all the difference between a staycation and just a week hanging around the house. Set your budget and splurge where you can guilt free!

Lose yourself No need to wait till your summer hols to tackle War & Peace. On your staycation, you have the luxury of time to sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in a fab book. Whether that’s a good old trashy novel, educational text or a self-help title, your staycation is your chance to lose yourself in a good book.

Make a home spa night

The ‘staycation’ is back in favour!

to cost the earth. So, work out how much you’ve got to spend for your staycation and set a daily budget.

The rising cost of living, increased holiday costs and the crackdown on children having term-time holidays are all taking their toll on where we decide to holiday. Travelling to a tropical resort isn’t your only holiday option. This summer how about considering a “staycation” instead and unwind within (or just outside) your own four walls.

Create a plan

Let’s put the world on hold!

Set the date and time for your staycation Give your staycation a start and end date, otherwise you run the risk of feeling like it’s just another week of endless chores and jobs.

The idea of a staycation is to have a holiday at home! So, coordinate your calendars, book time off work and settle on specific days you can officially be on staycation.

Staycation budget Chances are, one big reason for planning a staycation rather than a holiday abroad is that cash is short. Good news: You can take a staycation for next to nothing.

An evening at your local pub, inexpensive red wine and pizza at home or a picnic to your local National Trust Estate doesn’t have 10

Make a list of all the things you’d like to do on your staycation from day trips, meals out, chill time and so on. Remember this is your chance to get out of your comfort zone and do enjoyable things that you wouldn’t normally do!

Go buy yourself some lovely foot cream and a new nail polish and indulge yourself in a little pampering.

Take time during your staycation to do things that normally you wouldn’t have time to do, your nails, a bubble bath, colouring your hair, applying moisturiser or self-tan. Indulge, indulge, indulge! You’re on holiday!

Create an “out of the office” message for your email.

You’re on holiday and people need to know! Say you won’t be checking your e-mail till you’re back from your staycation. Then shut down your computer and throw a towel over it!

Play hometown tourist Staycations mean you can play ‘hometown tourist,’ and enjoy the fun things that your city (or surrounding areas) have to offer. Go online or visit your local Tourist Information Office and find out what’s going on locally that takes your fancy.

Don’t be afraid to have a little splurge Just because you’re saving money by holidaying at home, you can (and should) eat out, go shopping, take day trips, get a massage and splurge in other

Louise Presley-Turner is a coach, motivational speaker and author of Finding a Future That Fits (Hay House £10.99) Visit www.thegameoflife. co.uk to get your FREE life evaluator and planner.

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

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No matter how big or how small, we are here to help you make the right choices to fully co-ordinate your home A fresh, well designed interior with well co-ordinated accessories can make coming home a real pleasure. Taking advantage of our interior designer will also add perceived value to your property.

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Kinver Country Fayre has the edge

Throughout the afternoon The Boards rang to the steps of Morris, English folk, Scottish and belly dancers, who delighted the crowds with their colourful and energetic displays.

Kinver was the place to be this Father’s Day, as thousands of people turned out to celebrate at the village’s annual Country Fayre.

Crowds were in the High Street early, eagerly awaiting the traditional parade which kicked off the festivities. Shire horses, vintage vehicles, Morris dancers, Viking warriors, Icelandic horses, cyclists, schoolchildren in fancy dress, bands playing and Irish dancers were just some of the ingredients that made it a great start to the day.

From there the fun just went on and on. Craft displays, artists at work, stalls selling an array of tempting wares, delicious food and drink from local traders, a real ale tent and Pimms stall awaited visitors on Stag Meadow and the fields close to the village centre. The Vikings of Middle England, a star attraction of the Fayre, welcomed visitors to their encampment to reveal a fascinating view of life in centuries past. Viking battles took place in the main

arena, which also hosted displays from Hagley Falconry Centre, song and dance from local schools, a fun dog show with record number of entrants and a demonstration

by Stourbridge Rugby Club.

This year dancing was a main focus of entertainment, with the introduction of The Boards performance space out in the fields, not too far from the beer tent.

Families out celebrating Father’s Day found there was plenty to keep the children occupied, with attractions ranging from donkey rides, puppet shows and football challenges from Kinver Colts to an impressive climbing wall in the Scout camp.

“We had a really good attendance this year,” said Paul Wooddisse, one of the organisers. “As a charity, Kinver Country Fayre is all about raising money for local charities and good causes – so knowing that not only did we provide a great day out, but also increased gate receipts, is a brilliant result.”

Photographs courtesy of Neil Milton

Visit www.kinvercountryfayre.com for information on the Fayre and to make contact if you would like to get involved with organising the 2015 event.

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

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Preparation for the 2014 -2015 Season at Stourton Park by Carl Wythes wedding receptions, birthday parties and charity functions, all of which are held in Stourton Park`s well equipped Clubhouse.

On 9th August we have our annual Mel Williams Memorial Tournament day which involves several local and ad hoc rugby teams battling it out to see which team lifts the cup, all for charity. The tournament goes on all day and is aimed at all ages and abilities so why not come down to Stourton Park for a fun day out?

We are looking forward to another very exciting season on and off the pitch for Stourbridge RFC. We begin where we left off, away at Harrogate which will be a testing first match on the 6th September.

Our first home game will be on the 13th September against local rivals, Luctonians. We anticipate the usual excellent home support from our loyal membership. During the break the pitches have been maintained and improved by our excellent team of groundsmen in readiness for the coming season.

May Marquee on Friday 9th May. This event is the highlight of our Corporate Calendar. As ever hundreds of the regions’ business leaders met to enjoy a fantastic fourcourse lunch and the opportunity to entertain and be entertained!

As in previous years it was a great success and we look forward to repeating the event in 2015.

So whether you’re joining us to cheer on the teams as they play, watching an international game on the big screen, attending a private party or coming to one of our fantastic corporate or black-tie events, we very much look forward to welcoming you to Stourton Park soon!

See our web site: www.stourbridgerugby.com for details.

Not only do we host the biggest corporate event in May we also have our legendary May Ball. This is THE social event to be seen at. Guests were served with a four course meal and a live band plus DJ and a few party games.

A fun time was had by all.

During the summer we have other functions taking place including

Other sections of the club continue to develop and grow due to the passion and commitment of dozens of well qualified and highly motivated volunteers. Our Mini and Junior Section run a rugby camp three days a week during the summer where an excellent example can be seen of all of those qualities. It is always rewarding to see these young players progress through their age groups and develop a strong skill set and loyalty to this Club and the game of rugby.

The Stourbridge Rugby May Lunch returned to Stourton Park at our

T: 01384 395000 E: rugby@stourbridgerugby.com www.stourbridgerugby.com 16

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

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grilled meats and vegetables along with typical antipasti from the local farms and vineyards.

This is all accompanied by a selection of musical concerts both classical and modern ending on the last night with a spectacular firework display over the lake.

Summer events in Austria

Italian Lakes Lake Garda is the biggest and most spectacular of the Italian Lakes, with plenty of resorts from which to choose.

Each resort has its own individual character and atmosphere, set in stunning scenery, and access to the other fantastic lakeside villages by frequent boat and hydrofoil services.

So how do you decide where to go?

Here’s a few pointers in a nutshell

Bardolino An attractive, lively town on the south-eastern shore of Lake Garda with a pretty harbour. The traffic free centre offer good bars and cafés, excellent restaurants, smart shops and often live music.

Garda On the Eastern shore of Lake Garda where the lake broadens and the scenery becomes gentle with a backdrop of hills covered by olive groves, cypress trees and the famous Valpolicella vineyards.

Malcesine On the north-eastern shores, this lovely town tumbles picturesquely down cobbled streets to the crystal water’s edge, overlooked on a sheer rock face by the magnificent 13th century castle.

The cable car to the top of Monte Baldo offers stunning views and opens up a walker’s paradise.

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Sirmione The glorious peninsula of Sirmione stretches out from the southern shore of Lake Garda. This beautiful old town comes complete with the 13th century Scaligeri castle and its fascinating inland dock, and a panoramic walk along the shore takes you past bathing beaches to the tip of the peninsula where there’s an ancient Roman Palace and the Grottos of Catullo.

Italian cuisine might mean certain other things to lesser mortals, but forget the pasta, the pizza, the cheeses, the wine, the aperitifs and the rest… to the discerning palate it means just one thing - ice cream!!!

You will find a “gelateria” (crudely, an ice cream shop) in every resort selling dollops and dollops of “gelato” (low butterfat ice cream).

In Sirmione in Via Vittoiro Emanuele, there are ice cream stalls on either side with literally hundreds of different flavours on display. As well as the perennial favourites, these include Amarena (cherry flavoured with really juicy cherries), spicy chocolate and chilli, the kiddie-friendly “Puffo” (which means Smurf in Italian and is bubblegum flavoured and coloured bright blue) and even Gorgonzola! The gelateria Scaligeri in Sirmione have been serving up delicious ice cream since 1948!

Riva

Bardolino Wine Festival 2nd - 6th October 2014

Dramatically situated on the mountainous northern tip of the lake, Riva boasts superb scenery, elegant parks and a long lakeside promenade. Riva has many fine buildings, especially around the colourful Piazza, and the fantastic 12th Century La Rocca castle, which dominates the waterfront.

Every year the famous wine-making town of Bardolino celebrates the new harvest of the grapes that contribute to the delicious red wine which can be drunk alongside the famous food stalls that provide typical snacks of the region such as Risotto, different varieties of pasta and sauces,

For further details please contact Spear Travels on 01902 752424 or 01902 750361

September is festival season throughout the alpine regions of Austria, as villages celebrate the annual “Almabtrieb”. This wonderful traditional festival literally means “driving down the mountain” and celebrates the end of the summer when the cows are led down the mountain to the valley and their stables for the winter. The sound of cowbells echo through the valley as hundreds of cows pass through the villages, highly decorated in traditional costume. Alongside the “Cow Train” procession are village fetes and celebrations throughout the mountains - quite a spectacle to see and take part in.

The Almabtrieb event happens at the end of September, usually between 16th - 30th September.

In each village, there is live music and dancing, handicraft stalls and plenty of schnapps and local food to go round. The day starts around 10am with the parade lasting until lunchtime. After lunch the party starts and festivities continue into the evening. It is a wonderful day out for all ages too, usually with plenty of games and activities for the kids.

The size of the celebration and the date varies between villages.

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

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Roman Bathrooms: Glamorous Bathroom Trends can be achieved by combining cutting edge technology with traditional glamour and natural materials to create a timeless bathroom that’s right on trend.

Bathrooms are becoming less about pure functionality, and more about lifestyle. This year we’ve seen a rise in requests for bathrooms optimised for the whole family – a roll top bath for mum, a walk in bath for Gran and all the latest gadgets for the man of the house.

Technology has enhanced the bathing and showering experience for all customers, whatever their age. Digital shower and bath controls that offer complete control over your bathing, making it not just safe but a beautifully relaxing experience.

Just the press of a button can select the desired option to fill a bath of water at the selected temperature. You can even choose a half fill or shallow fill option.

“Glamour, style and luxury are key criteria in any bathroom design at the moment. Homeowners are looking for a place to indulge, renew and refresh and this

Boutique hotel luxury is a major inspiration for designers this year, together with a wider renaissance in enthusiasm for classic silver screen style and the opulence typified by that era. Chic stand-alone pieces that add an air of indulgence to your bathroom – vintage-style cabinets are a great way of maintaining practicality without compromising your aesthetic.

We are also seeing a move away from straight lines to a softer look with curved and rounded

Caroline Cooper, managing director of Roman Bathrooms and award winning designer, shares her views on the latest bathroom trends and explains how to create a glamorous yet functional family bathroom.

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Strategically placed LED lighting in the floors, walls and recesses, can create a relaxing ambience and support the task lighting that may be required for make-up and shaving.

In terms of on-trend shades, choose from the pastel palette, neutrals or warmer cream tones. Full floor to ceiling tiling is popular as it creates a coordinated look, makes a room appear more spacious and makes for ease of cleaning.

edges. You can achieve this by selecting a free standing bath, adding in curved walls or a quadrant shower enclosure.

Frameless showers and walk-in showers are very popular, creating a wet room environment gives the illusion of space and openness

and offers benefits to all the family.

Easy access is a key benefit but others include plenty of space for parents to shower with toddlers or to add a shower stool for more elderly family members.

Lighting has also become very important in the bathroom.

Wellness in the bathroom is the next big theme, inspired by the celebrity trend for homes that are designed to enhance health and wellbeing. This can be power showers with different settings that provide invigorating shower experiences and the addition of oils and Vitamin C to your shower which transforms an everyday showering experience into an aromatherapy spa.

With so many beautiful new products, there has never been a better time to invest in a dream bathroom.

Style

We source from the most stylish manufacturers and we have more than a quar ter of a centur y of experience.

We design and install inspirational bathrooms and kitchens that are totally unique to your lifestyle.

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ROMAN BATHROOMS • KITCHENS • TILES www.romanbathrooms.co.uk 110-111 HIGH STREET BLACKHEATH B65 0EG TEL: 0121 561 4374 Open Tuesday - Saturday 9am-5pm Late night by appointment

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Vine Dining Table was £2,199 now only £1,549

SALE! UP TO 60% OFF! Interiors Italia t/a Rootwood House|79a Darlington Street Wolverhampton|WV1 4JD 01902 428489|roowood@outlook.com|www.rootwoodhouse.com 22

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

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Competition Two lucky winners can each win 2 tickets to see TOP HAT on Tuesday 21st October at 7.30pm at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre.

Direct from its tremendous success in London, winning three Olivier awards for Best New Musical, Best Choreography, Best Costumes and the Evening Standard Award for Best Night Out, this spectacular West End production brings the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age and the glorious, tap-dancing magic of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers to the Grand Theatre stage from Tuesday 21st October to Saturday 1st November in one of the greatest dance musicals of all time.

Packed full of Irving Berlin’s greatest hits including, Cheek to Cheek, Top Hat, White Tie & Tails, Let’s Face the Music & Dance and Puttin’ on the Ritz, TOP HAT tells the story of Broadway sensation Jerry Travers who dances his way across Europe to win the heart of society girl Dale Tremont. An uplifting and hilarious romantic comedy celebrating 1930s song, style and romance, TOP HAT dazzles with over 200 beautiful costumes, breathtaking dance and a love story that will set the pulse racing!

‘A MUSICAL LIKE THIS COMES AROUND ONCE IN A LIFETIME’ Tim Walker, The Sunday Telegraph

Call the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Box Office for more information on 01902 429212 or visit our website at www.grandtheatre.co.uk 24

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and send it on a post card with your name, address and telephone number to Town & Village Life Magazine at the address below before Friday 29th August 2014.

Only postal entries can be considered for the competition and winners will be notified by telephone.

Top Hat was regarded as one of the greatest of the Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers Dance Musicals for RKO Radio Pictures.

RKO was among the top five movie makers back in the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Which of these was also known for its big production song and dance musicals? a) Paramount Pictures b) Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer c) Fox Films d) United Artists Competition Terms and Conditions Please post all entries to Town & Village Life Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY. To be received by no later than Friday 29th August 2014. Winners to collect tickets from the Box Office on the night. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash or alternative prize nights available.

Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity.

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

LOVE YOUR HOME

Beautiful homes

Deserve beautiful blinds‌ and shutters too!

For impartial advice on all types of blinds, awnings and plantation shutters call Paul at our Bridgnorth showroom on:

01746 768138

or Simon at our Kinver showroom on:

01384 877518

Alternatively you can visit our showrooms at:

10 Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth & 83 High Street, Kinver

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

25

Quick Crossword Across 1 Unable to hear (4) 3 Previously (8) 9 A lawn game (7) 10 Tease (5) 11 Produced (12) 14 Period of time (3) 16 Stop (5) 17 Feminine pronoun (3) 18 In spite of (12) 21 Shoreline (5) 22 Placing (7) 23 Daily (8) 24 Requests (4)

Down 1 Twelfth month (8) 2 Embellish (5) 4 Not in (3) 5 Dimensions (12) 6 Entrants in a race (7) 7 A toy (2-2) 8 Adequately (12) 12 Map or diagram (5) 13 Communications (8) 15 Mean (7) 19 Departs (5) 20 Land measurement (4) 22 Small vegetable (3)

Sudoku

Easy

Hard

Puzzle answers on page 114

Word Search Find the words associated with photography in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase.

BAND SAW CALIPER CHALK CHISEL CLAMP CROWBAR DRILL FILE HAMMER JIG SAW JOINTER KNIFE LATHE MALLET 26

PLANE PLIER PROTRACTOR PUNCH RASP RATCHET ROUTER SANDER SPRAY GUN SQUARE WOOD RULE WRENCH town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

“Our conservatory was so hot in summer and freezing cold in winter we hardly ever used it... …but now we’ve replaced the old glass roof with a Guardian™ fully tiled warm roof we can sit back and relax. It’s cosy & warm, nice & quiet and our conservatory is now the room we always wanted it to be”.

In just a few days we will transform your old conservatory into a beautiful living space... ..and here’s how we do it, first of all we remove the roof, we will then construct & install the lightweight aluminium frame, next we add the high performance insulated roof before the interior is finished to your specification.

THANKS TO MY NEW ROOF, I’M NOW THE MOST POPULAR ROOM IN THE HOUSE!

CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE

0800 988 5938

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August Windows and Conservatories Limited.

Head Office: Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, B60 3ET

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27

Geoff Hill Electrical - ‘Best price, best choice, best service... always.’

Now of considerable size the store boasts an extensive showroom that’s packed full of the latest and best in top branded audio-visual, electrical, and white goods that will suit the requirements and budgets of all.

“Although we’ve got bigger, we haven’t lost track of the service we offer,” explains Geoff.

They now sell the most up-to-date curved screen TVs. These TVs aren’t like anything you’ve seen before, and you’ll notice the difference immediately.

Curved screens are making their grand entrance into homes everywhere and changing the way we watch TV in the future.

For over half a century Geoff Hill Electrical has been an integral part of the Amblecote high street.

With a reputation for offering the very best in personalised customer service, the independent electrical retailer has long been supplying top quality goods at competitive prices.

Also available is an extensive selection of washing machines, dishwashers, cookers, fridges and freezers, all of which are from the leading and most popular brands - Sony, Hotpoint, Panasonic, Zanussi, Bosch, Samsung, Miele, Siemens, Kenwood, Rangemaster, Indesit and many more.

Thanks to a highly trained team of 14 employees, customer service at the store is unbeatable. With an emphasis on offering accurate, impartial and in-depth information

on every product, the staff at Geoff Hill Electrical are well equipped to advise on any purchase.

No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll be treated to an easy, hassle-free shopping experience.

And that’s reassuring to know.

A competitive pricing structure means that despite being an independent store, prices match those offered by large chains. And, with offers running on a regular basis, you can be sure that you are always buying at the best price.

If you’re looking to spread the cost of your purchase, you will be pleased to hear that Geoff Hill Electrical offer six months interest free finance on purchases over £200, with only a 20% deposit required, then six equal monthly payments of the remaining balance.

There’s an easy payment option on offer too - to suit the needs of every customer - which allows you to make an agreed weekly or even monthly payment over a longer time period.

Free local delivery - on items over £150 - makes getting your goods home easy, and with just a small charge for those of you out of the area, nobody misses out.

And there’s even more good news, because when your new appliance is delivered, the team at Geoff Hill Electrical can take away your old one and recycle it for you - for a small charge of £10.

So, whether you’re looking to buy an essential electrical appliance for your home or maybe the latest curved screen TV, there’s only one retailer to visit and that’s Geoff Hill Electrical.

Founded and owned by Geoff Hill, the store has seen many changes since beginning life in 1960. Originally a small shop, Geoff soon realised that to keep up with customer demand he needed to move to a more substantial premises to make room for his ever-increasing range of products.

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

01384 395852 01384 397271

7 High Street Amblecote Stourbridge West Midlands DY8 4DE www.geoffhillltd.co.uk

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INGREDIENTS • 2 kilo leg of lamb • 2 bulbs of garlic peeled • 150ml Rapeseed oil • 6 tbsp of Ras el Hanout • 2 kilo new potatoes • 2 small heads of broccoli • 4 red chillies • fresh rosemary • sea salt • cracked black pepper • 500g natural yoghurt • 2 tbsp of mint sauce • half a cucumber • mint sauce • watercress, spinach and rocket • Flat breads or tortillas • 400g of hummus EQUIPMENT • Equipment • Baking tray • Mixing bowls • Plastic or glass tray • Tablespoon • Large pot • BBQ • Sharp knife • Strong kitchen foil • Peeler • Bbq tongs • Kitchen roll • Oven gloves • Gas or coals

Recipe Of The Month Barbecue Lamb with Ras el Hanout Preparation time: 1 hour plus marinating 2 days

Serves 8

Cooking time: 45 minutes if cooked together

METHOD FIRST JOB: Place the potatoes on a tray and bake in the oven for around 30 - 40 minutes ready to add to the salad a bit later on.

MEAT: Ask your butcher for a boned, well-trimmed of fat and sinew and butterflied leg of lamb. Once you get it home get a small sharp knife and start making small cuts in the flesh all over the leg. Peel the garlic bulbs and set one bulb of cloves aside for later. Thinly slice the cloves of garlic and insert them into the slits you have cut into the meat.

Now rub the spice mix well into the meat and drizzle with oil rubbing all over the meat. Place into a plastic tray and wrap tightly with cling film. Put into fridge for up to 2 days. This needs to be at room temperature before you cook it so if its for lunch take it out the fridge in the morning(8am).

Once on the BBQ allow to cook for about 17 minutes each side, take off the grill and leave to rest for about 20 minutes, allowing you to finish preparing the rest of the food.

SALAD: Trim the broccoli and blanch for 2 minutes.

Grill the broccoli before you cook the meat on the bbq. Pour 100ml of oil into a frying pan and add thinly sliced garlic and chillies then fry on a low 30

By Michael Peter Whitehurst Email: mike@takefood.co.uk www.takefood.co.uk

Resting time: 20 - 30 minutes

heat for about 12 minutes until soft but not too coloured. Once the broccoli is charred place into a bowl and pour over the garlic and chilli oil. Cut the potatoes in half and mix through the broccoli then season with sea salt and black pepper.

DIP: Empty the yoghurt into a bowl, pour in 2 tbsp of mint sauce and grated cucumber, season with salt and pepper to serve.

SERVING SUGGESTION: Once your meat has rested fully, carve it and present on a platter in front of your guests with the broccoli salad, watercress salad, hummus and tzatziki dip in bowls. Now grill the flat breads for 30 seconds and serve. To eat spread the hummus over the bread, add a little watercress salad then the meat and now a little tzatziki on the top and fold the flat breads and serve with the broccoli salad on the side. www.facebook.com/takefood www.instagram.com/mikewhitehurst_takefood www.twitter.com/takefood mike@takefood.co.uk www.takefood.co.uk

email: mike@takefood.co.uk for his recipe for roasted red pepper hummus or Ras el Hanout spice mix recipe. town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

* h t n o % m 0 s Thi E 2

V A S

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31

Don’t be disappointed - choose Choices Windows The home improvement market is changing and the demand for more choice in colour and suitability of PVC-U doors and windows is growing.

Fashionable additions such as orangeries are increasingly desirable, as more people look for ways to improve their home.

At Choices Windows, the latest trends are important, but quality products and exceptional service will always be paramount, as this family-run business is built to be the best.

Situated on Sedgley Road West, the company is owned and run by Nathan Beddows, who explains his passion: Nathan Beddows, owner of Choices Windows

“I can’t stress enough how much pride we take in every window, door, conservatory, orangery or garage conversion we create.”

With its roots in manufacturing, the business started more than 20 years ago, and right from the very start an emphasis has been placed on supplying only the finest and most energy-efficient products.

“Our commitment extends beyond the manufacturing process to the design and installation of doors, windows, conservatories and our other home improvement services,” explains Nathan.

Opening a factory in Tipton not long after leaving school, Nathan has worked hard and as a result, the business has flourished over the years. He now employs more than 40 staff members, who take care of each aspect of design, manufacturing and installation.

Choices Kitchens, is part of the same company and both organisations boast clients that are spread across the West Midlands, Staffordshire and Shropshire.

“For some customers we supply new windows and doors, for others we provide a complete

32

home improvement service from building and fitting kitchen extensions, to designing and installing conservatories and more recently orangeries,” says Nathan.

Tremendously satisfied customers are Karl and Donna Langford from Milking Bank, Dudley. Having recently employed Choices Windows to carry out extensive work at their home they are keen to share their experiences and commend the team involved.

When Karl and Donna decided that they wanted to extend their home, they contacted various companies to get a quote for the plans they had in mind. But they were disappointed to find that some didn’t even bother to get back to them - probably because they thought the job was too big for them to handle.

So, they decided to visit Choices Windows.

They spoke at length with owner, Nathan Beddows, and explained what they wanted to achieve. Sales Manager, Adrian Pooler was sent out to visit the couple at their home and offer guidance and advice as they planned the project together.

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Pleased with the ‘no pressure sales’ philosophy at the company, Karl and Donna decided to go ahead with the plans to build a large orangery.

The windows at their home are mahogany UPVC, so obviously they wanted the orangery to match.

This was a problem for other companies they had spoken to, who could only offer rosewood which is a slightly different colour.

Of course, this was no issue for Choices, because they manufacture their own products.

During the period of construction, the couple were delighted with how smoothly everything went, as Karl explains: “The different trade’s people that came were all reliable; they contacted us to say that they were coming and turned up when they said they would. They were really friendly and did an excellent job.”

Choices completed all aspects of the work, including facias, soffits and guttering at an incredibly competitive price.

Nathan visited the couple when work was complete to ensure that everything was finished to their satisfaction, before guaranteeing the work and products for 10 years.

“We were really pleased and would certainly recommend Choices.

Every stage of the process was excellently planned and we received nothing but the best service from start to finish.”

“We are absolutely thrilled and utterly delighted with the results and are grateful to Nathan, Adrian and the team for transforming our home into something we could only have dreamed of.”

Keen to keep ahead in the style stakes, Nathan is ever aware of the latest designs, materials and colours on offer, and strives to make these available to his customers.

“We only supply A-rated energyefficient doors and windows which can help save up to £250 from heating bills in the first year alone.

They not only reflect heat back into the house, but also retain heat from solar gain,” remarks Nathan.

“As a company we pride ourselves on giving old fashioned value for money and excellent service, we can undertake the majority of jobs and if building work is required we will assist in the designing and planning”.

“After many years in the business we have seen a lot of competitors come and go, unfortunately leaving many customers without any warranty after parting with their hard earned cash. Any customer who is considering having any home improvements should choose carefully and do their homework,” advises Nathan.

“The old sayings are always the best - after a low price is long forgotten, poor quality long remains”.

For more information visit our website: www.choiceswindows.co.uk or call in and see us at Sedgley Road West, Tipton DY4 8QD.

“Many people are now opting for stylish coloured PVC-U, influenced by timeless muted ‘National Trust’ tones. Sage green, gun metal grey and cream are all becoming very fashionable alongside the traditional clean bright white,” explains Nathan.

Fitting new PVC-U windows can be a good choice for the environment as well as for your home. Replacing dated double glazing can help save money on heating bills and reduce the carbon footprint of a residence. www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

33

Brierley Hill is alive with The Sound of Music

By Rachel Sabin Connie, who is currently studying Musical Theatre at Birmingham Ormiston Academy, showed both the character’s strong nature and her vulnerability perfectly. Her songs were performed with confidence and were note perfect. In fact, both my guest and I were singing ‘Sixteen Going on Seventeen’ in the car on the way home!

When you think of an amateur musical, you think of wobbly sets, out of tune screeching and actors fluffing their lines.

Well this couldn’t have been further from the truth when I was fortunate enough to be offered the opportunity to review Quarry Bank Musical Theatre Society’s production of The Sound of Music.

The famous Rogers and Hammerstein musical, which ran from 3rd – 7th June at Brierley Hill Civic Centre, amazed audiences with the sheer talent that was on display. From the opening ‘Preludium’ to the closing ‘Finale Ultimo’ the Nuns of Nonberg Abbey, led by Julia Siviter in the role of Mother Abbess, blew audiences away with their classical tones.

34

The lead role of Maria was played by Alex Detheridge, who unfortunately had a throat infection on the day I attended.

However like a true professional she was adamant that the show must go on and acted the role out beautifully, with the fabulous Jenny Houghton singing on her behalf. Jenny is surely on her way to becoming a leading lady herself in future productions.

Richard Cope took on the role of Captain Von Trapp, and in doing so was able to fulfil his ambition of starring in all of the Rogers and Hammerstein musicals. His experience certainly paid off as he was able to confidently show the development of the character from stern widow to loving father. For me however, the true stars of the show were the Von Trapp children led by Connie Ross in the role of Liesl.

The younger Von Trapp children are played by two groups of children, Team Raindrops and Team Roses. I witnessed Team Raindrops in action with Caelan, Jemma, James, Mia and Isabelle in the roles of Friedrich, Louisa, Kurt, Brigitta, and Marta. All performed like seasoned professionals with eight year old Isabella stealing the show as a very cute and cheeky Gretl with a fantastic singing voice for a child of her age.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without the talented production team. Director Steve Humpherson put together an extremely enjoyable, professional show while Musical Director Richard Ganner and his team of accomplished musicians provided music that was of an exceptional standard. Special credit also has to go to all the behind the scenes supporters from stage hands to the much welcomed ice-cream sellers, who helped to make this production the success that it was.

For more information about Quarry Bank Musical Theatre Society visit www.qbmts.org.uk

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

WINDOWS, ORANGERIES & CONSERVATORIES

WE BUILD IT BETTER Create your own unique space

Up to

30% off

our entire range of products this month

Orangeries • Conservatories • Windows • Doors Bi-Folding Doors • Triple Glazing • Roof Trim • Sash Windows

Sedgley Road West, Tipton, DY4 8QD Tel: 0121 557 7228 Visit our website at: www.choiceswindows.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk Showroom at:

35

Interiors@No 72 - Settled at their New Home

It is hard to believe that over a year has gone by since Interiors@ No72 opened in Tettenhall Wood.

Although Cora Turner-Collis, the owner, has been in business for 20 years she explains “it has been like starting a new business as I have been able to source so many more suppliers, ranges and products than when I was working from an industrial unit”.

Cora also offers an interior design service to plan ‘the whole look’ which is tailored to each individual’s tastes and needs.

Katie has recently joined the team.

She has a degree in textiles so is also able to advise and help clients make the right choices.

The makeover of the old Bird in Hand pub has transformed the premises from a tired 50’s built pub to a destination showroom for interiors as well as the coffee shop and hairdressers.

Cora has been told by several customers in the shop that they think she has raised the house prices in Tettenhall Wood!

The Virgo team love a challenge and will spend time to source unusual items for clients or create bespoke products.

They can provide for both commercial and domestic environments in both traditional and contemporary styles. All work is designed, made and fitted giving a fully inclusive service.

Since the opening, ranges of all sorts of products have been extended:

Virgo Carpets and Interiors is a keen supporter of Compton Hospice. There is a permanent fabrics remnants bin, the proceeds from which go straight to Compton. On Thursday 4th September 10.00am to 12.00pm there will be a Compton fundraising coffee morning at Interiors@ No72. Tickets are £5.00 for coffee and cake. There will be raffle tickets available for some fabulous prizes. Tickets are available from the showroom.

• Carpets, Karndean, vinyl & rugs • Fabrics for curtains, blinds, upholstery and soft furnishings • Poles, tie backs & trimmings • Wallpaper • Lighting • Mirrors • A recent addition is solid wooden flooring 36

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

37

Val Hever Blinds: A Perfect Fit Every Time awnings. Their expertise lies in fitting perfect fit blinds to windows which provide a sleek finish to your window. They offer a free no-obligation home appointment and the fitting service is included in the price of the blinds.

Val Hever Blinds (formerly Valentines Blinds) is now based in Tettenhall Wood and run by Val and Debbie Hever.

Val Hever Blinds has a reputation for the quality of their blinds, expert fitting service and great customer service.

Operating from their new showroom in Tettenhall Wood they only stock the best quality and most varied range of blinds on the market. With over 30 years’

experience in the trade you can trust them to give total satisfaction on all your requirements.

With so much choice available, selecting the right blind for your house can be difficult, but Val Hever Blinds will help you to select the most suitable product from their extensive range and can advise you on types of blinds, textures, colours and fit.

Their range of blinds includes vertical blinds, roller blinds, venetian blinds, pleated blinds, roman blinds, conservatory blinds and

They supply and fit blinds to not only homes, but commercial businesses, schools, colleges and local authorities.

Quality, value for money and personal service are really important to them and they go that extra mile to ensure you are totally satisfied with your blinds.

Simply give them a call on 01902 754129 to find out more or pop in for a coffee and meet the team.

They’re always happy to help and with their huge array of styles and possibilities you’ll have no problem finding the perfect blinds to dress your window!

Specialists in all types of Blinds Vertical - Fabric, Wood and PVC Venetian - Wood & Aluminium Rollers Including Blackout • Awnings and Canopies Romans • Woodweave • Velux • Conservatory Blinds

Free Measuring & Fitting + 12 Month Guarantee

Call Now 01902 754 129, 07891 197 369 or 01902 212314 No 72, School Road, Tettenhall Wood, WV6 8ET

as seen advertised on

www.valheverblinds.co.uk 38

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Gift Shop Gallery Picture Framers

Two floors of eye catching art, giftware, jewellery and home accessories provides a visual treat that makes shopping here such a pleasure.

To complete that perfect gift, select from a range of beautifully designed contemporary gift wrap and bags.

Open: 9.30am - 5.30pm Monday to Saturday

Stourbridge

Galleries

58 Worcester Street, Stourbridge, DY8 1AS Tel: 01384 390170 www.stourbridgegalleries.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

39

Shutters And Blinds for a traditional UK semi is debatable but like all other matters relating to decor, it’s purely a matter of taste.

There are several styles of shutter to choose from, for example; solid shutters are designed to be folded back during the day and closed at night (or when the house is unoccupied). They resemble very much those rather elegant shutters you can sometimes see in old Victorian or Georgian houses. These have a solid raised section with decorative detailing. Then there are solid Shaker shutters that go perfectly with the latest minimalist decor.

These are flat, almost featureless and have a flat, solid insert.

The way you dress the windows of your home says a great deal about you. It shows your taste, your attitude to comfort and the value you place on your home.

Once upon a time, curtains were all you would see at the majority of domestic windows and curtains have excellent properties, they insulate, provide privacy and prevent the goods inside from fading in the sun.

These days however, there are other, popular and fashionable alternatives, namely blinds and/or shutters.

Blinds can be had in a whole range of colours and in several styles. They can be self-coloured or made-tomatch exactly, the soft furnishings in the house. There are roller blinds, Roman blinds and Venetian blinds. Each has its advantages and disadvantages but they can be installed together with the more traditional curtains adding that extra element of privacy, insulation and fade resistance. Alternatively they may be installed alone, and there are advantages to this.

purpose is generally quite other than mere dressing for eye-appeal though they can still offer insulation, privacy and fade resistance. Depending on the materials from which they are made, shutters can also offer security.

Shutters are variously made from hardwood, usually elm or yellow poplar, MDF, a variety of plastic composites or steel, all of which can be finished to match either the interior or exterior decor. They can be fitted on the inside or outside of the windows; in fact they can be painted one colour on the outward facing side and another on the inside. MDF is not recommended for outside fitting or for bathrooms or steamy kitchens.

Shutters in the UK are usually fitted on the inside of a window. However the more decorative, continental styles are fitted outside so they open right back, flush against the wall.

Whether this arrangement is suitable

There are also shutters that feature a solid lower half with slats on the upper half. These slats can be static or open/closable. They look particularly good over French doors. Security shutters are usually of solid steel folding sections.

As with curtains and blinds, shutters can be operated by remote control.

The steel security shutters however, are always opened and closed electrically. They also have safety features built in so they remain closed should there be a power cut and can only be opened any time by means of a hand held remote control.

Blinds and shutters may be fitted by suppliers or on a DIY basis. It is said they are pretty easy to fit without experience if you are half-handy.

Blinds can add that extra elegance to your home. Shutters however, add an extra touch of sophistication and that all important element of security.

Not a matter to be ignored in these troubled times.

Blinds are generally made of spongeable materials such as plastic, wood or treated furnishing fabric.

They are therefore easily cleaned - some even consider them to be much easier to maintain than curtains.

However, like curtains, they can easily be custom-made to fit your windows and your interior decor. They can also be operated by remote control.

Shutters on the other hand are tougher customers altogether. Their 40

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Let us keep you cool this summer…

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www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

5Guarantee Year 41

Capital, A Company To Be Proud Of! Boasting an impressive 45 years of trading history, brothers Clive and Patrick Baker have a company to be proud of: Capital Appliances is a trusted, respected and long established family-run business, specialising in high quality white goods.

Formed initially at modest premises in Oxley, the extremely successful organisation has expanded rapidly over the years, and now incorporates six outlets, which span both Shropshire and the West Midlands.

Shrewsbury, Telford, Kingswinford, Dudley, Stafford and Wolverhampton are all home to Capital.

Always committed to quality, a visit to the central warehouse at Claregate reveals top branded products at spectacular prices.

With a display of over 250 built-in ovens, hobs, laundry, refrigeration and cleaning appliances; as well as expertly trained staff on hand to offer impartial advice, every customer experiences only the best in both product and service.

As members of Europe’s largest electrical buying group, Euronics, Capital has the same purchasing power as any one of the high street’s chain stores.

Making maximum savings available to all customers end of line and boxed-blemished items are available at bargain prices. But rest assured, purchasing from a store that is passionate about 42

its products, means that they all come with a full warranty.

Bulk buy and special trade discounts rival that of any internet company and Capital are always keen for a deal to be struck. With stock changing on a regular and even daily basis, a good buy is certainly waiting to be had.

Once you have found just what you wanted, a same day delivery service is on offer to get your new purchase into your home as quickly as possible. Fully qualified ‘Gas Safe’ and ‘Corgi’ registered engineers will then make installation effortless and ensure peace of mind - all at a very reasonable price.

Proud to be agents of Rangemaster Aga Cookers and Refrigeration, along with top manufactures, Hotpoint, Bosch, Seimens and Miele; Capital bring the latest and most stylish appliances to your locale.

Excitingly, a new and very exclusive range is on sale also, Blomberg.

Available in Germany, the Blomberg brand is on a mission to be in harmony with every aspect of life and creates products with technological, practical and environmentally friendly features and aesthetic design.

Low energy washers, dishwashers, refrigeration and soon to be available built-in ovens and hobs, make up the extensive range, all carrying a very impressive three year warranty.

Recently acknowledged for their standards of excellence, Blomberg have been presented with European awards for creating the most energy efficient fridge freezers on the market.

The team at Capital are determined to provide a superior and extensive service, as owner Patrick explains: “We offer the complete package and as a result have thousands of satisfied customers. With many internet companies going into administration and letting people down, here at Capital we aim to be ‘hands on’.”

“The staff are there to help, guide and advise - we recommend Capital and so do many others.”

With a reputation for being the best in the business, Capital offer something really special and as Patrick concludes, “the journey is a must to a firm that you can trust.”

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

12 Place Dishwasher Half Load Sensor

1400 Spin, 8KG A+++ 15 Minute Quick Wash

Double Oven

A selection of small appliances available:

Townsend Place, Kingswinford Centre, DY6 9UL Tel: 01384 271812 Macrome Road, Claregate, Wolverhampton, WV6 9HD Tel: 01902 752764 Castle Street, Dudley Centre, DY1 1LA Tel: 01384 234620 Salop Street, Wolverhampton, WV3 0RX Tel: 01902 429060

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Hatfield Interiors at Cutnall Green - A Great Day Out Located in a charming converted barn in the pretty village of Cutnall Green, Hatfield Interiors has got everything you need to make your home look amazing; from fabulous soft furnishings and accessories to a bespoke interior design service that’s available to everyone.

Owner Rachel Barnes worked as a designer for Laura Ashley

before starting her own business 14 years ago. Employing her years of experience in the trade, Rachel - and her team - offer clients all the help and advice they need to achieve the look they’ve always wanted for their home - no matter what the size of their project or budget.

You will find a gift shop with an array of gifts at Hatfield Interiors that are wonderful for the home and garden and each is beautifully presented in stylish room sets. You’ll find furniture, lighting, pictures, mirrors, cushions, jewellery, scarves and much more. And there is also a tea room where you can take a break from your shopping and treat yourself to a scrumptious cake, or even a light lunch.

During the spring and summer months, visitors can take full advantage of the delightful gardens that surround the

property. There’s plenty of places to sit, relax and enjoy refreshments, and dogs are welcome to come too.

Open Gardens at New House Farm - as featured in the National Garden Scheme’s ‘Yellow Book’ Throughout July New House Farm’s gardens are open to the public as part of the National Garden Scheme to raise much-needed funds for charities like, Macmillan, Marie Curie and Help the Hospice.

There is something for all the family, packed full of interest for all ages.

Join us on Saturday 19th July 10am-5pm and Saturday 20th July 11am-3pm.

For further information please call Rachel or her team on 01299 851013.

Bespoke Interior Design Service Contemporary Fabrics and Wallpapers Soft Furnishings Made In-House

CLARKE

&

CLARKE

We can provide the inspiration to create a beautiful space in your home Gift Shop showcasing stylish home accessories - Tea Room serving scrumptious cakes and light lunches

Hatfield Interiors, New House Farm, Kidderminster Rd, Cutnall Green, Droitwich WR9 0PW Tel: 01299 851013 / 07770 984231 email: barnes.p7@sky.com www.hatfieldInteriors.com Like us on Facebook Directions: From Kidderminster proceed on the A442 and then follow signs for Cutnall Green

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Wolverhampton Fireplaces and Stoves

A Family Run Business with over 30 Years Experience with Over 80 Fireplaces in Store across our 2 Storey Showroom

Summer Sale Now On!

15 Merridale Rd Chapel Ash WV3 9RX

Why not have a Virtual Tour of our Showroom by Visiting our Website

01902 422111

Mon-Sat 9.30 till 5.00 Sunday 11.00 till 3.00

www.wolverhamptonfireplaces.co.uk

the solution to your building requirements call 07955 031 249 or 01902 844897

Services we offer • • • • • • • • • • • •

Traditional & Eco New builds Extensions and alterations Oak timber frames Bespoke oak joinery Renovations Shop fitting and design Loft conversions Ground works Carpentry and joinery Electrical Plumbing heating All types of Roofing & lead work

www.buildasolution.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

www.facebook.com/buildasolution

@buildasolution

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Dudley Building Society launches Community Support Fund As a result of a positive year end position Dudley Building Society is welcoming applications for its community support fund for local charities and community groups.

The Society is offering two donations of £500 and five additional opportunities to receive £100. The chosen applicants will also receive support from the Society via joint Press and Social Media Support.

The Support Fund is aimed at supporting the local areas around the branch network, as part of the Society’s larger Community Strategy, which will see increased support of community events, a financial education programme and volunteering opportunities in the next twelve months.

Leigh White, Marketing & Communications Manager said: “The communities our branches and Head Office belong to are extremely important to everyone here at Dudley Building Society. As a mutual organisation it is important we support others, and the launch of

this fund is only the start of a continued relationship to ensure the local communities are at the heart of everything we do. Whether it is through education, fundraising or volunteering, we want to ensure we add value and really make a difference!”

Anyone wishing to apply to be considered for the fund; should go to www.dudleybuildingsociety.co.uk to complete the short application. Anyone requiring a hard copy of the form can contact their local branch.

a nisa isa

Remember to take advantage of your ISA allowance by saving tax free with the Dudley.

You can save with our JISA and new ISA (NISA).

Don’t Forget!

The maximum amount you are permitted to invest in a NISA is currently £15,000 for all savers over the age of 16.

www.dudleybuildingsociety.co.uk

Telephone: 0845 850 2369 Brierley Hill | Dudley | Gornal Wood | Kingswinford | Perton | Stourbridge

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

47

The Rotary Club of Kinver The stonemasons arranged the shipping to the UK of a massive piece if Indian granite weighing almost half a ton which they used to produce the 4ft diameter information tablet which was 3 inches thick at its central point, dropping to 2 inches at the perimeter.

The refurbished Toposcope on Kinver Edge was variously described as “a work of art”, having “massive ‘wow’ factor” and “stunning” within minutes of its unveiling on Saturday by Gavin Williamson, Member of Parliament for South Staffs.

One of the UK’s leading stonemasons, Perfitt of Norfolk, had been commissioned by the Rotary Club of Kinver to make an exact replica of the information plate for the Toposcope after it had been made almost illegible through weathering since its creation in 1990.

They exactly copied the original design of the late John Greaves Smith, adding around the circumference the names of the organisations that had joined Kinver Rotary Club in the project: the Wrigley Memorial Charity, the Anthony and Gwendoline Trust, Staffs County Council Communities Fund and Kinver Country Fayre.

As he unveiled the new top with Rtn Nick Geoghegan, President of Kinver Rotary Club, Mr Williamson spoke of the beauty of the countryside around Kinver and felt that knowledge of the landmarks within the vista enhanced the overall enjoyment.

He complimented the Rotary Club on its efforts to renew the damaged

top and praised those who had supported the project financially.

Speaking at a reception following the unveiling, Sue Wright, a descendant of the family who gave Kinver Edge to the Nation through the National Trust in 1917 spoke of her joy at seeing such great interest in Kinver Edge itself and added “I know there has only been a toposcope there since 1990 but it seems as though Kinver Edge has never been without it. It has become an essential element of a visit to Kinver Edge and I know vast numbers of visitors will benefit from the Rotary club’s efforts for many years to come.”

Golfers Chip in to Support West Brom’s new Charity Partner L-R: Jeff Ball (West Brom) Ray Nash (Alzheimer’s Society) Dave Taylor (West Brom)

Community-spirited golfers from a local building society chipped in with a £3,800 donation for Alzheimer’s Society.

Nineteen teams drawn from business partners, suppliers and colleagues took part in a fundraising golf day organised by the West Brom at Swindon Golf Club near Wombourne.

Awards were presented for the best scoring team, longest drive and shots nearest the pin. A raffle with prizes, including American Golf vouchers and a Hotel Chocolat hamper, also helped to raise money for the cause.

The West Brom’s Dave Taylor, who helped to organise the event, said: “Alzheimer’s Society is our new nominated charity and the event was a great way to kick-start this year’s fundraising campaign. We are very grateful to everyone who gave so

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generously and contributed to a most enjoyable day.”

Ray Nash, Alzheimer’s Society’s Senior Regional Corporate Fundraising Executive, said: “We’re delighted that the West Brom has chosen us as its charity partner. One in three people aged over 65 will develop dementia so there is a real need for help and understanding for those living with the condition and their families and carers.

“The golf day was the first of several major events planned to raise funds and awareness and we are looking forward to an exciting partnership.”

The West Brom is the leading building society in Birmingham and the Black Country with branches in Wolverhampton, Dudley, Kingswinford and Stourbridge.

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

“NEVERMO” ARTIFICIAL LAWNS From August Home Improvements

You wouldn’t believe this is artificial grass!

Artificial Lawns have become one of the MUST have home improvements of recent times.

BEFORE

An affordable solution to problem lawns, you will simply not believe it is not grass.

Never mow again!

100% dog proof  Cannot be stained or dug up No more muddy shoes  No more bald patches Perfect lawn all-year-round  No more weeds Great for children’s play areas

AFTER

Fully guaranteed and installed by our professionally trained installers and with a choice of grass types it is the perfect solution.

Take a look at our website for more information:

www.nevermo.co.uk

Call Free on 0800 988 5938 or you can email us at enquiries@nevermo.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

49

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Does a Jacuzzi® hot tub have a warranty?

Understanding your Jacuzzi® Hot Tub

Yes, every Jacuzzi® hot tub has at least a standard 2 year warranty included.

Where should I place my hot tub?

Is a Jacuzzi® hot tub difficult to maintain?

Not only is a Jacuzzi® hot tub great for your lifestyle, it also looks fantastic as a garden feature. There are a couple of considerations to be aware of before you plan a hot tub in your garden design. For example have you left enough space around it for steps, covers and other accessories. Have you left sufficient space for upgrades or repairs to the elements inside your hot tub?

Maintaining a Jacuzzi® hot tub is easy. Depending on your use, your hot tub will need refilling and cleaning 3-4 times a year. On top of that, your filters will need cleaning regularly and your hot tub water will need treating with a small amount of chemicals.

Where is my nearest store?

We have a large store based at Webbs, Wychbold, Droitwich with 8 of our top selling models on display along with hot tub chemicals and accessories. The team there are Jen, Emma and Natalie who are all fully trained and happy to deal with any Jacuzzi® hot tub enquiry 7 days a week for your convenience.

Jacuzzi® is a registered trademark.

Who does the installation?

When you purchase a Jacuzzi® hot tub from the hot tub centre at Webbs, Wychbold our main priority is getting you to sit back and relax in your new hot tub at home. We’ll help you decide where to put it, work out how to get it there, deliver it and install it for you. We’ll get everything up and running so you can jump straight in. Our team will even show you how to use your new hot tub and explain about keeping the water clean and safe.

Rejuvenate.... WITH A GENUINE HYDROMASSAGE

FROM JACUZZI

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Make the most of your family time rejuvenating the whole body with a genuine hydromassage from a Jacuzzi Hot Tub. ®

To receive £1000* off your Jacuzzi Hot Tub present this advert in store. ®

*Offer applies to J300 and J400 models only. ®

For more information on reasons to choose a Jacuzzi Hot Tub, please visit our hydrotherapy centre at Jacuzzi® Hot Tub Centre,Webbs of Wychbold, Wychbold, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire, WR9 0DG, tel 01527 869378, email: hottubswebbs@jacuzziemea.com or visit www.jacuzzi.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

51

Garden Style ‘With Substance’

By Andi Way, Award Winning Garden Designer at Boningale Garden Creations

look that leads your eye through the garden, while straight lines lend themselves to a more formal, stately look that is centred on symmetrical patterns and order.

Whatever the style you eventually choose, look carefully at the practicalities to see how it can be accommodated in the space you have.

With the Shrewsbury Flower Show only a few weeks away, we are busily finalising the design for our show garden entry, which this year has a Vintage theme to help commemorate the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the First World War. When planning the design for a garden, it’s important to have a theme, and in a home environment the theme should centre on a design that reflects your personal style and who you are. It could be chic or classic? Über trendy or trendsetting?

Our gardens can offer a fascinating aspect into our personality and style – is your outdoor space a true reflection of you?

If not, now is the time to think about making your garden yours.

Style is not just about decoration and the type of plants you buy – it’s about good, clear design.

Many of the garden styles that we see today have evolved over the centuries. Very often they began life as large and grand ideas, but they have had to be adapted over the years to suit different lifestyles, family generations and environments.

The trick to good garden design is capturing the essence of a style, or a place and making it your own, rather than creating a pastiche.

Almost anything can be done,

from creating a quiet retreat, a vibrant space filled with colour and fragrance, or a fun outside ‘room’ where you love to eat or entertain.

You might even choose to create a miniature version of the Versailles Palace, which is great if that’s your style, as long as it is done well.

Gardens can be many things so it is important to have fun with it.

Provided you are comfortable with the style, would enjoy looking at it every day and working in it – and sharing it with others – then you have nothing to lose and only a beautiful garden to gain.

The key is planning. Get some much-needed inspiration from magazines, books – even product brochures that garden centres give away freely. All these will be full of ideas that can help to inspire you.

Think about what style would suit you: do you want to create a Zen-like space that requires minimalist maintenance? A formal garden with traditional arrangements? Or are cottage-style borders packed with seasonal flowers more your style?

It doesn’t matter if you are confident about the design you want to create or are nervous about taking the plunge, it’s always a good idea to seek professional advice from a reputable, APL approved, garden designer for new ideas or tips on planting.

You don’t have to have a huge budget to employ a professional, but even the shortest of consultations at the planning stage could make the difference between a decent garden and a stunning one.

If you need further inspiration come and see us at the Shrewsbury Flower Show on the 8th-9th August. Also look out for the date of Boningale Nurseries Annual Plant Sale in September at www.boningale.co.uk Andi Way is an award winning garden designer with more than 25 years’ experience in domestic landscaping. Andi is head of the team at Boningale Garden Creations, which is based on Boningale’s wholesale plant nursery in Albrighton, Shropshire, near Wolverhampton.

Ask yourself if you like curves or straight lines.

Curves tend to give a softer and more relaxed

To see how Boningale Garden Creations could simply enhance or transform your outdoor space, please telephone 01902 376500 or visit www.boningale-garden-creations.co.uk 52

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

CREATING YOUR PERFECT OUTDOOR SPACE IS A BIG STEP however you’ll be in safe hands with garden creations.

FREE

Consultation Contact us today 01902 376500

From design to landscaping, we deliver stunning gardens of all shapes and sizes

Our award–winning designers offer imaginative designs to suit your personality and life style, traditional or contemporary, large or small.

Our experienced landscape team offer a complete planting and landscaping service which will bring your garden design to life.

andi.way@boningale.co.uk 01902 376500

garden creations

Facebook.com/BoningaleGardenCreations

@boningalegarden www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

www.boningale-garden-creations.co.uk 53

Summer Gardening Hanging Baskets need watering daily and liquid feeding weekly even with the slow release fertilizers added to composts; you’ll see the extra benefits from a bit of liquid feed.

If you’re going on holiday, it’s advisable to get someone to water your tubs and baskets while you’re away. Indoor plants can be stood on capillary matting – the other end is put into a container full of water and the plants will take up the water as they need it. Make sure to wet the matting first.

Stake and tie in taller herbaceous plants before they get too tall and floppy to manage. Dead heading as flowers finish will often encourage a plant to produce

Tips are provided

by Ann Winwood from Lealans Garden Centre, Wolverhampton

another flourish of flowers after the main flowers have finished.

Make the most of a warm sunny day and pull or hoe up any weeds still lurking in your borders.

Woolly Aphid is a pest of fruit trees that is getting very common. It appears as fluffy white cotton wool like patches on stems. Use Provado Ultimate Bug Killer as a control, but follow the directions as there is a minimum harvest interval.

After the damp weather of May there are a lot of slugs about.

Use pellets, the new wool based ‘Slug Gone’ or liquid Slug killer.

Since the chemical control for leatherjackets has been withdrawn from sale, control of this rapidly spreading pest is difficult. Often the presence of starlings and thrushes on the lawn can indicate grubs in the

ground. The only product that can give some control is a biological nematode, which is purchased online. It must be applied as soon as you receive it as it’s a living organism.

Use a very fine netting (Mosquitoplast) to cover cabbages, cauliflowers, carrots and other particularly susceptible vegetables against flies, pigeons and butterflies.

Harvest peas and runner beans regularly whilst they are young and tender, freeze any spares for home grown vegetables during the winter months.

If you want Hyacinths in flower for Christmas, plant them in September. Use a compost specifically for bulbs as it will contain charcoal to keep the soil sweet.

OPEN DAILY

Tel 01902 700209 Ready planted Hanging Baskets available all summer Many varieties of Alpines, Herbaceous, Shrubs and Roses ready for planting out now New range of garden furniture now in stock

Lealans Garden Centre Bridgnorth Road, Shipley, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7EZ www.lealansgardencentre.co.uk

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Independently Better

Hinksford Lane, Kingswinford, West Midlands, DY6 0BH

LANDSCAPE & BUILDING SUPPLIES

CONTRACTS & FITTING DIVISION

• Fencing, Paving Slabs, Block Paving, Turf, Decking, Decorative Aggregates, Building Supplies, Bricks & Blocks, Timber Supplies, Astro-Turf, Sheds & Gas

• Specialising in the installation of all the products we supply • Professional & friendly service • Free no obligatory quotes & consultancy • Design service available • Guarantees given on all types of work

• Display Area • Delivery service available

Tel 01384 401789 (5 lines) Fax 01384 401793 GARDEN MACHINERY DIVISION • Sales, service & repair of all types of garden machinery • Ride-on Tractors, push mowers hand-held machinery and much more • Spare parts available • Chainsaw sharpening • Free collection and delivery • Large mower showroom

w w w . o c l - k i n g s w i n f o r d . c o . u k Opening Times : Mon - Fri 8.00 - 18.00 | Sat 8.00 - 16.00 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Old Mill Antique Centre

Antique & Reproduction Furniture 1000’s of Gift Ideas Bespoke Furniture At The Old Mill Antique Centre we have 4 floors of antiques and quality reproduction furniture – and literally thousands of gift ideas for everyone – all displayed in charming and elegant room settings

Beautiful tables made to your design & specification in-house using only the best quality seasoned Oak or Pine.

Homemade Cakes & Snacks Open 7 days – 10am to 5pm Car Parking Available

Mill Street, Low Town, Bridgnorth WV15 5AG Tel: 01746 762248

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Exciting Times at The Vineyards At the start of the summer we released most of our 2013 wines, all free to taste in our shop and we have a bin ends sale on at 3 for £20 amongst a range of great summer drinking wines. It’s an ideal time to pop in and have an ice cream and indulge in some wine tasting.

can include lunch, afternoon tea or an evening meal, and is also available for corporate days or private functions. Each day visitors can stroll in, see the room and view our winery with all its impressive equipment, while watching a slide show of our years production.

mix of interesting shops and of course the Owl and Falconry centre that’s not to be missed.

The craft centre remains a massive attraction with a fabulous

Please call for further details and bookings.

For all those fishermen out there, our coarse fishing lakes are nestled in amongst the vines and are well stocked for a great days fishing.

Since we launched our High Teas we have seen an increase in demand, served between 2pm -4pm, only £15.50 per head or £21 with a glass of award winning fizz! Bookings are essential and we require at least 24 hours notice.

Gourmet nights continue to get booked up, one night per month our chefs put on a fantastic menu and the staff help to create a wonderful dining experience which makes it a truly special evening.

Our new Wine House has now been open a few months, it is used for pre-booked guided tours that

www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk Halfpenny Green Vineyards, Tom Lane, Bobbington, South Staffordshire DY7 5EP The Wine House

Enjoy our new High Teas

A new and unique vineyard setting for group tours, private events, business lunches, corporate training days and group visits.

Take your tea in style with one of our delightful traditional high teas, perfect as a gift or just to enjoy yourself!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9.30AM – 5.00PM Tel: 01384 221122 Email: sales@halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Eating Out and Entertainment

TOWN & VILLAGE

LIFE M AGA Z I N E

Promote your venue to over 32,000 readers in the Stourbridge and surrounding areas with Town & Village Life magazine. For further details please call Gisella on 01902 744217.

with master chef Mario and his enthusiastic team Serving Fine Italian Cuisine & Traditional English Lunchtimes & Evenings

July & August Midweek Deal

20% off

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MID-WEEK

BLACK COUNTRY SPECIALS Tuesday-Thursday

only £6.95

a la carte menu

Served lunchtimes and evenings.

When you present this coupon

Bookings not required.

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings only.

Normal a la carte menu available.

To avoid disappointment please book:

Situated at:

T. 01902 756052 E.reservations@bravaccios.co.uk www.bravaccios.co.uk

4a Upper Green Tettenhall WV6 8QQ Ample Free Parking

“Steve Bull invites you to come along and sample the delights of his delightful restaurant overlooking the Green in Tettenhall”

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

LArge beer gArden

Suckling Green Lane, Codsall, Wolverhampton WV8 2BP

A real traditional Pub with a great atmosphere!

To complement our superb menu we offer a large range of Cask Ales, Lagers and Ciders including Enville, Directors, IPA and Doom Bar plus 2 guest Ales every week.

A large variety of refreshing bottled ciders including Old Mout Cider Summer Berries, Kopparberg Naked Apple, Rekorderlig and Magners, also Aspall and Magners Golden Ciders are available on draught.

OPEN ALL DAY EVERYDAY

The Best

Tex-Mex Food in Town!

“It’s what we’re famous for”

That’s not all we do!

Visit our website and check out

OUr LArge VArIed MenU!

Food served 12 noon until 9pm

To avoid disappointment bookings are advisable,

please call 01902 843654

Follow us on Facebook The Bentlands Pub

www.bentlands.co.uk

Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant Established 1989

Air conditioned

Cuisine of Bengal

Fully licensed

RATED 5 AWARD WINNING RESTAURANT FOR 2010, 2011, 2012 & 2013 Rafique Miah welcomes you to the longest established Indian Restaurant in Wombourne Village, serving sumptuous Bangladeshi Cuisine for over 24 years.

“We pride ourselves on our Quality of Food, Excellent Customer Service and Customer Satisfaction.”

Recently refurbished in contemporary surroundings, air conditioned and fully licensed.

• Winner of ‘Simply the Best’ restaurant competition 2009 • Winner of The Spotlight Awards ‘Best Eating Place – Casual’ 2007 / 2008 Our popular Take-away Service is still the best in Wombourne offering 10% off our Menu price.

Tel: 01902 324148 / 324437 Open 7 days including Bank Holidays - 5.30pm until 11.30pm

High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DN www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

facebook.com/wombourne.tandoori

www.wombournetandoori.com 59

Eating Out - Al Fresco Eating out is one of the supreme pleasures of life today.

Normally of course it means heading for some well recommended pub or restaurant where the food is great, the wine beyond fine and the ambience well-appointed and comfortable in the extreme.

However summer is surely here and eating out takes on a whole new meaning. Hotels and restaurants these days are more than happy to provide comfortable seating arrangements outdoors. The best will have courtyards where the breeze whispers amongst pots of flowers spreading their heavenly scents wafting around the tables. Many of course will not have private courts beautifully appointed for

Tapas available from the Kingfisher

elegant dining. Many will follow the continental fashion of placing the tables outside the premises on the pavements where in true cosmopolitan style; one may feast on some of the best foods available in the district.

Truly we have become a nation of al fresco diners.

But is the food any different in these outdoor ‘dining rooms‘? Well it depends. Gastro pubs will serve a whole range of meals from both traditional and special summer-time menus – Mediterranean style tapas, salads and grills, pies and pastas, barbecued meats and delicious dishes from all over the world. In other establishments, traditional dishes are still much in evidence.

Don’t overlook the drinks though.

What better on a hot summer’s day than an icy glass of white wine, sparkling or still? Or, if you prefer, a glass or two of the coldest lagers and beers will wash down those delicious meals in no uncertain way.

One of the best things about eating outdoors is the way your food comes untouched by the

scents and odours of the other meals on the menu. You taste the full and delicate best of each meat, each vegetable, and each sauce. Nothing but the fresh, open air is there to adulterate it.

Of course some establishments specialise in barbecue cooking.

Then of course you get the fulsome flavour of the smoky cooking which naturally adds to the assault on your taste buds. Few surely, can resist the smell of fresh cooked burgers, sizzling sausages and charcoal grilled meats and fish?

If you feel like eating out this summer, you can be sure the choice is large and varied.

But do make sure that eating out means just that. Take advantage of the weather, the hospitality and the advantages of enjoying a perfect meal in the best of all surroundings, the great British outdoors!

Tapas available from the Kingfisher

Pubs too these days are run in a much easier fashion than was once the case and whole families are more than welcome to sample the hospitality of the house indoors. But pub gardens and cleared car parks are also pressed into use for the pleasure of their patrons. Long gone are the hard, uncompromising wooden benches that were once the only form of outdoor seating provided. Mine host now welcomes guests to elegant tables, comfortable chairs and pretty umbrellas and shades to protect diners from the heat of the sun.

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

61

The Bentlands - Eating Out at its Best By Helen Taylor

It’s always good to try out a new restaurant, but sometimes it’s even better to pay a visit to one that you know and love; which is why I wasn’t disappointed when I was assigned the job of reviewing Codsall’s landmark pub and restaurant, The Bentlands.

Having grown up in the village I was more than familiar with the venue - situated off Suckling Green Lane - and have long been a fan of the unique Tex Mex cuisine that

it’s famous for, but I hadn’t yet had chance to take a look at the place since extensive refurbishment was carried out last year.

Stepping inside I was pleased to find that although the décor had changed, the warm, friendly atmosphere still remained.

Impressed by the stylish interior - that’s married modern and traditional design flawlessly - and astounded to find that the former lounge area had been transformed into a large new dining area, my friend Vicky and I glanced around before making our way to the bar.

It was 6pm and we were both in need of a glass of Rose. Surprised by quite how busy the bar was - it was early on a Tuesday evening after all - we took a moment to peruse the menu before ordering our food and drinks.

Heading to the familiar conservatory dining area - that boasts gorgeous views of the gardens in the summer - we sat down and eagerly awaited our starters: ‘Garlic Mushrooms’ mushrooms sautéed in garlic butter and herbs served with garlic bread (£4.95) - and ‘Stuffed Red Jalapeno Peppers’ - filled with cream cheese and served with dipping sauces (£4.45 for 4, £7.25 for 7).

It had taken a lot of deliberation before we were able to decide on what to order, because the menu is bursting with an array of mouth-watering choices. There’s

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‘Chilli Beef, Mexican Chicken or Spicy Vegetarian Nachos Supreme’, ‘Calamari Cajun Style’ and ‘Buffalo Wings’ - to name a few - on the starter choices.

And there’s all manner of delicious mains, that are guaranteed to meet the approval of even the most finicky diner.

Aside from the restaurant’s signature Tex Mex choices, like ‘Bentlands Famous Chilli’ and ‘Sombrero’ - steak or chicken breast spiked with fresh chillies and coated in Mexican spices - there’s also a selection of ‘Ribs ‘N’ Things’, choices ‘From the Grill’ - such as rump steaks and gammon as well as burgers, salads, fish dishes and classic pub meals.

But, we had no doubt that we’d made the right selection when our starters arrived. After briefly commenting on how nicely presented each dish was, we hurriedly tucked in and wasted no time in savouring the sumptuous flavours.

It was clear to see that each had been created using only the finest and freshest ingredients by an exceptionally talented team in the kitchen.

Eager to enjoy the next course, our attention turned to what was to come next.

I’d ordered a ‘Spicy Vegetable Enchilada’ - soft

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

tortilla topped with spicy tomato sauce, grated mozzarella cheese and served with spicy fries, corn on the cob and creamy coleslaw (£9.95).

Vicky had also chosen from the Cantina Mexicana section of the menu and so was keenly awaiting her ‘Chilli Beef Burrito’ - wrapped flour tortilla, topped with guacamole, salsa and sour cream (£9.95).

The Bentlands Suckling Green Lane, Codsall Wolverhampton WV8 2BP

Tel: 01902 843654 www.bentlands.co.uk

Giving the diet a day off, I made my way through the more-than-generous helping of spicy fries without a hint of guilt. Both truly surprised and impressed with the large portion sizes, we couldn’t have been more pleased with the value-for-money prices.

So there was no excuse not to order dessert.

I couldn’t refuse the ‘Homemade Lemon Cheesecake’ - served with winter berries (£4.45). Vicky chose to round off her meal with a scoop of three indulgent icecreams - honeycomb, strawberry and vanilla (£4.45).

Our desserts provided the perfect ending to the evening, and as we sipped the last few drops of wine we readied ourselves to venture out just in time to see the setting sun.

As I drove away I concluded that The Bentlands really has got it all; exceptional food, a great setting and excellent service.

But then again, I already knew that.

The Bentlands are offering Town & Village Life Readers

10% OFF YOUR TOTAL BILL MONDAY TO THURSDAYS FROM 12PM UNTIL 9PM Bookings advisable.

Terms & Conditions: Valid throughout July and August 2014 when you present this voucher. One voucher per table (min 2 diners, max 6 diners), no photocopies and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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action. After the fantastic Family Fun Day, there are three midweek evening fixtures to enjoy before the racecourse’s feature raceday of 2014 on Friday 29 August.

Wolverhampton Racecourse

Invests In New Racing Surface Wolverhampton Racecourse is soon to be leading the way in racing innovation when they begin racing on a Tapeta surface in August, marking them as the first British racecourse to do so.

Racing has been staged on all-weather surfaces at Wolverhampton since 1993, having first raced on a Fibresand track, followed by a resurfacing in 2004 to Polytrack. Wolverhampton follows in the footsteps of first class racecourses around the world that have staged racing on a Tapeta surface, including Golden Gate Fields in California, Presque Isle Downs in Pennsylvania, and most notably, Meydan Racecourse in Dubai.

Racing returns on Monday 11 August, which is the racecourse’s annual Family Fun Day. Mike the Knight and his wizard-in-training sister Evie will be appearing at intervals throughout the day, along with racecourse mascot Freddie Furlong. There will be free entertainment for the children to enjoy and exhilarating allweather racing for the adults.

Accompanied under 18s are admitted free to the racecourse, and adult admission tickets can be bought for just ten pounds.

There are five fixtures at the racecourse throughout August upon the racecourse’s return to

The racecourse is preparing for the most popular event in its history, when international reggae stars UB40, who originated in Birmingham, will be performing live after an evening race meeting.

The date forms part of the band’s biggest UK tour for over three years. Most notably known for number 1 hits such as “Red Red Wine”, “Kingston Town” and “(I Can’t Help) Falling in Love With You”, the multi-platinum selling UB40 will be performing their well known and loved classics, intertwined with a few of the songs from their new album.

UB40 begin the live music evenings at the racecourse, which run through the autumn and winter, featuring many racecourse favourites, such as Badness, Soul’d Out and Hipster, as well as a few racecourse debutants, including a Rolling Stones tribute, Wham/George Michael tribute and performing outdoors after racing on Ladies’ Evening (Saturday 6 September), boy band FATE. The racecourse has a fantastic reputation for offering superb Saturday evening entertainment, to enjoy with friends, family or colleagues, accompanied by a range of dining experiences.

The process began after Wolverhampton’s final spring fixture on Tuesday 29 April, since then, the former racing surface has been removed, essential maintenance to the track has taken place, and the laying of the new Tapeta surface begins imminently.

Not too dissimilar from Polytrack, the racing surface will be made up of components including; sand, fibre, rubber and wax.

For further information on what’s happening at the racecourse in the coming months, and to book tickets for the superb events throughout August and beyond, visit www.wolverhampton-racecourse.co.uk

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

TICKETS from

£25

UNDEr 18’S £10

UB40

friday 29 august

Live after racing! www.wolverhampton-racecourse.co.uk 01902 390000 | info@wolverhampton-racecourse.co.uk *Terms & conditions apply. For full terms and conditions, race times and details of the event please visit our website.

Booking restrictions and fees may apply. Wolverhampton Racecourse encourages responsible gambling. www.gambleaware.co.uk. Please drink responsibly. www.drinkaware.co.uk

J4201 WOL Music Live14 UB40 140x218 WWM Advert.indd 1

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

14/02/2014 12:29

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Under New Ownership Newly Refurbished Victoria Passage, Stourbridge DY8 1DP Open 12pm to 2.30pm daily, 5.30pm to 11pm evenings, Closed Mondays

Our dishes are freshly prepared by our experienced Chefs, serving fine authentic Italian cuisine.

SUMMER SPECIAL PROMOTION FOR JULY AND AUGUST

The perfect venue for birthday parties, anniversary celebrations and corporate functions. Private dining area available for up to 30 people.

a glass of wine for only £23.95

Lunchtimes 1 course main £6.95 2 course £8.95 3 course £10.95

evenings Tuesday to Friday – £14.95, 3 course with glass of wine Saturday – £19.95, 3 course

Must pre book and present this voucher upon arrival.

Offer valid Tuesday to Friday only.

Christmas Bookings now being taken To book a table or for further details please call 01384 442119

www.vesuvioitalianrestaurant.co.uk Fully Licensed

3 course meal for 2 including

Air Conditioned

email: vesuvio.restaurant@live.co.uk Car Park at rear of Restaurant

Contemporary Modern Dining at Sedgley’s Premier Indian Restaurant

Saffron Pink’s RestauRant

Sayed Miah along with his expert team of knowledgeable chefs and waiting staff welcome you to Saffron Pink. We pride ourselves on our high standard of service and authentic Bangladeshi cuisine.

Take Away Service Available FREE Home Delivery within a 3 mile radius, minimum order £15 Orders between £10 to £15 within a 3 mile radius, only £1.50 To book a table please call

01902 671759 / 673665 Open 7 Days including Bank Holidays, Sunday to Thursday 5.30pm to 11.30pm, Friday and Saturday 5.30pm to 12 Midnight 2 Bull Ring, Dudley Street, Sedgley, DY3 1RU

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 FOOD HYGIENE RATING SCHEME 2011

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

• ‘Stourbridge’s Best Kept Secret’ • Authentically French • Freshly prepared food from the best available ingredients • Extensive A La Carte Menu

Menu Rouge, 3 courses only £16.95

Available Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings Open for Breakfast and Lunch 9:30am to 2:30pm Wednesday to Saturday Open for Evening Meals 6:30pm to 9:30pm (Last Orders) Wednesday to Saturday

Gluten free and vegetarian dishes available

NEW Website coming soon!

NEW Seasonal Menus coming soon!

Bastille Week 16th, 17th and 18th July - very French Menus, 3 courses from £8.88 per person.

A La Carte Menu Changes Seasonally Menu Rouge Changes Fortnightly See Website - Book On-Line

Catering and Dine at Home Service Available Authentic French Dishes Prepared for your Freezer

Bookings advisable for evenings please tel: 01384 390940 www.frenchconnectionbistro.com info@frenchconnectionbistro.com 3 Coventry Street, Stourbridge, DY8 1EP

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Wolverhampton Grand Theatre 1894-2014 Celebrating 120 Years of Theatre Wolverhampton Grand Theatre will be celebrating 120 years of Theatre this December; we caught up with Chief Executive Peter Cutchie who gave us a brief history of the theatre.

Following on from a long tradition of theatres in Wolverhampton stretching back to 1750; in December 1894 the Grand Theatre opened on Lichfield Street to popular acclaim. Before the doors even opened a contemporary reporter noted that ‘for those of us who have watched the red brick shell rapidly overhaul and outgrow the surrounding scaffolding, this is truly a grand theatre.’

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Replacing the Theatre Royal – the site of which became the Central Library - it was built to complement the newly opened Victoria Hotel (the Britannia) next door. What made the Grand all the more remarkable was the speed with which it was built. From the laying of the foundation stone by Mrs C. T. Mander, Mayoress of Wolverhampton on June 28 1894 barely six months elapsed before a 2,151 capacity audience was seated in the auditorium to enjoy the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company perform Gilbert & Sullivan’s, Utopia Limited.

The Grand Theatre is one of eminent Victorian theatre architect, C J Phipp’s, most enduring, intimate and beautiful creations. Constructed

by Wolverhampton builders, Henry Gough for £10,000 the Grand has been a Wolverhampton icon for

Barbara Windsor has performed many times at The Grand Theatre and has lots of fond memories

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

120 years. The theatre is and has been fondly regarded by many generations of Wulfrunians and today still attracts almost three hundred thousand visitors annually through its doors.

Backstage Crew in 1955 for Annie Get Your Gun

In this 120th year it is only right to celebrate the ongoing success of the Grand and acknowledge the debt owed to its staff, past and present, for their hard work and loyalty to the theatre. It is also important to acknowledge the commitment, especially in terms of voluntary effort or financial support of its Board of Trustees, the Friends of the Grand, our Sponsors, Business Club members, stakeholders especially Wolverhampton City Council and last but most importantly YOU the patron.

Nest season kicks off with the smash hit show Dirty Dancing, the stage version of the Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers classic musical film, Top Hat, a number of major dramas including two visits from the National Theatre, some exciting one night variety shows, performances from our local operatic societies and dance showcases from a range of very talented local children. Of course it would not be a complete season without the highlight for many, of any Grand Theatre year, our annual pantomime Cinderella starring Julian Clary.

The existence of the Grand Theatre is strongly supported by all those who recognise the value a vibrant theatre brings not only to the cultural life of Wolverhampton citizens but also the very important

Top Hat

Lions – The pantomime in 1973 Robinson Crusoe had real lions in the show

Julian Clary in Cinderella

contribution it makes to the economic well being of the City.

Celebrate this 120th Anniversary Season with us, enjoy the variety of shows on offer and please start telling everyone you know loudly and clearly that MY THEATRE MATTERS!

Dirty Dancing

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Possibly the most significant advance in sculpting the perfect ‘Me’ Secretly we all want to be different to what Mother Nature dispensed – maybe younger, taller, shorter or with less excess in the places we cleverly try to disguise. But perhaps most of all, we desire to be as near to the perfect “Me” we could envisage.

Much of what our DNA dictates we cannot change. And for the majority, we are just not ready for what full-blown, clever plastic surgery procedures can achieve.

For years, those who required body contouring bought into the liposuction dream, parting with millions of pounds for liposculpture or suction-assisted lipectomy procedures. The surgery permanently removed fat cells, allowing people to be thin without tortuous exercise regimes and low-fat, low taste diets.

But what if the same results could be achieved without such an invasive procedure and at a fraction of the cost of a full surgical operation?

Year on year medical science has invaded the beauty market, but a recent development is setting the bar for body contouring at a new level – without the painful discomfort of traditional lipo treatments.

This innovation – 3D-lipo – offers a revolutionary fat reduction treatment and it’s available at Medi Visage, basted in Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton.

This month, articles in The Daily Express, The Express online and OK! Magazine have ensured that the message about this treatment is ‘out there’ and the response for treatment has been staggering.

Medi Visage business partner, Bibi Dodd, says: “We’re all set to go with this revolutionary piece of equipment. I’ve seen staggering results in skin tone and fat reduction and it doesn’t involve the normal rigour of exercise.”

High profile fans of 3D-lipo have included Coleen Rooney, Liverpudlian wife of Wayne Rooney. Following the birth of her second child she decided on a helping hand from a beauty clinic to get back into shape.

The therapy combines Cavitation (the use of ultrasound) which

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Medi Visage Bibi Dodd – I’ve seen staggering results in skin tone and fat reduction and it doesn’t involve the normal rigour of exercise

converts fat cells into liquid that is then naturally drained by the body’s own filtration system, as well as a body sculpting treatment called Cryolipolysis, where fat cells are literally frozen away.

Unlike other lipo offerings that utilise Diode Laser (I-Lipo, Strawberry and Laser Lipo) this new technology “physically destroys the fat cells.”

The advantage of this is that the client is not required to exercise post treatment in order to metabolise the released fat.

“Added to this, with the combination of radio frequency and 3D-dermology, clients are able to combine an effective skin tightening application for both face and body and also target the dreaded cellulite,” says Bibi.

Partnering Bibi in the Medi Visage venture are established Wolverhampton implant dentist Jonathon Pugh BDS MSc (Implant Dentistry), Maxillofacial surgeon Mr Khaleeq-Ur-Rehman BDS, FDSRCPS, MBChB, MRCS (Gen Surg), FRCS (OMFS) and consultant dermatologist Dr Hamdi Hamad.

The surgical team will offer a full body dermatological approach to patients and will, among other procedures, address anti-wrinkle facial aesthetics, skin cancer screening (including tissue biopsies), and the removal of moles, skin tags and basal-cell carcinoma (BCC).

Internationally acclaimed Deborah Mitchell’s Heaven products are being used for skin care pampering and are on sale at the clinic.

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

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82 Tettenhall Road Wolverhampton WV1 4TF www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Sharon’s Guide to Buying for Your Body Shape

Stuck in a clothes rut? Not sure what to buy to best flatter your figure? Then check out Sharon Dickens’ guide to buying for your body shape.

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Pear Shape Pear shapes carry weight on their bum and thighs, they have a small waist and chest and, therefore, attention should be focused on the upper body. Choose tops with embellishments, patterns or gathering and wear statement necklaces and earrings.

Wide slash-neck tops and those with cap sleeves or subtle shoulder pads work to balance the top half of your body with the width of your hips.

Avoid any detail that falls at the hip and thigh area and choose dark colours on your lower half. A-line skirts, that skim over your wide hips, are really flattering, so are bootleg or flared trousers.

Three-quarter length coats and jackets - which skim over your bottom and thighs - and cropped jackets that nip in at the waist will look great on you - just be sure to avoid varieties that sit on the thighs.

Apple Shape Apple shapes tend to carry weight around the tummy; they have a large chest, undefined waist, chunky arms, slim hips and great legs.

If you’ve got an apple shape, draw attention to your chest, hips and legs. Choose V-neck and wraparound tops to emphasise your cleavage and empire line styles to highlight your slimmest area (below the bust) and drape flatteringly over your tummy.

Jackets and coats should be tailored and should nip in at the waist. Single breasted jackets are slimming, avoid double breasted styles.

Ensure that your bra is the correct size to help define your silhouette - a professional fitting is always best.

which show off the legs. Well-fitted slim line trousers work well on a tall slender frame too.

To help to create the illusion of a waist, wear a waisted belt. Jackets and coats should be tailored and those that are nipped in at the waist and flare over the hips add curves.

Avoid wearing one colour from top to toe as the key is to break up the body as much as possible.

Hourglass Shape The hourglass shape is curvaceous; it has a large chest, tiny waist and rounded hips, with legs that tend to be heavier. This is the most balanced shape and emphasis should be made on highlighting the tiny waist.

As the bust tends to be large, scooped and V-necklines are the most flattering, as are sweetheart necklines.

Trousers should be tailored and well-fitted - black ones help to slim down the legs, especially when paired with heels which elongate your legs and lift your bottom. Jeans should be mid to high waisted - boot cut styles work best.

Avoid heavy detailing or embellishment on the pockets as this will detract from your best feature - your waist.

Skirts are often more flattering than trousers: choose styles that are cut on the bias, like tulip and A-line, also opt for pencil styles, as they’ll look perfect on an hourglass shape.

Fitted, single breasted or cropped jackets which nip in at the waist- or tailored or belted coats will be best for your body shape.

Accessorise with a skinny waisted belt to highlight your waist and finish with a short necklace.

Tops should fall just below the belt line - ones with threequarter length or long fluted sleeves are most flattering.

Wear slim-leg trousers or jeans to show off your slim legs, or chose wide-leg styles to balance your frame. Trousers with a low waist or flat front with a side zip are the best cut for this shape.

Opt for A-line style skirts that flare out from the waist to balance your top half, structured pencil style skirts also look good on apple shapes. Hemlines that fall above the knee are the most flattering but ensure they are not too short as this will give the figure the appearance of being ‘blocky’.

Rhubarb Shape Rhubarb shapes can be defined as boyish - they are straight up and down and lack curves. This figure tends to be very slim and often has a long body in proportion to their legs, which can be long and lanky. Rhubarbs tend to have model proportions, so the importance when dressing this figure is to create the illusion of curves.

Rhubarbs suit high neck tops such as crew or polo necks as this shape is usually very slim up top. Layered tops and t-shirts- as well as chunky knits - help to add bulk, whilst sleeveless tops emphasise slim arms. If your arms are very thin though, you’ll benefit from wearing cap sleeve styles that will serve to add bulk and shape to your arms.

This shape suits structured, flared trousers and skirts that flare out from the waist because these help to create curves. However, pencil skirts also look good on this shape, as do shorter skirts www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

• Wardrobe Consultations • Personal Style Shopping • Personal Shopping Brought to your Home • Gift Vouchers Available • Trained at NHJ Style Academy in London • Affordable prices

Pedmore, Stourbridge Please contact Sharon Dickens to arrange a face to face consultation or for further details

Tel: 07920 574485 email: sharondickens55@gmail.com

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Wollaston Beauty Clinic Summer is officially here and it’s time to hit the beach, but is your body ready?

Of course we’ve all been exercising and dieting over the last few months in readiness for that annual season we call summer here in the UK, but we all need a little help to enhance ourselves.

It might be that we reveal our feet in a pair of flip flops - that have been hiding at the back of our wardrobe - or maybe we’ll go the whole hog and don a swimsuit or bikini.

Perking up your general appearance is not such a difficult thing to do when you have the help of a first class beauty salon at hand - I’m talking about Wollaston Beauty Clinic, of course.

They have been in the business over 28 years and they certainly know a thing or two about looking good, which means you should trust no other.

For feet, they are offering a limited edition ‘Dermalogica Pedicure’, which has been specifically designed to transform those neglected tootsies into stunning beauties that you’ll be proud of.

The Dermalogica products used are exquisite, and with the selection of Orly nail polish colours on offer you’ll be spoilt for choice. What’s more this exclusive pedicure includes a free gift, worth £41.50, to take home with you all for only £36.

For bodies that are lacking tone and firmness there are many different body treatment options, like ESPA body polishes, scrubs, wraps or cellulite treatments. But if you fancy something totally relaxing, then treat yourself to a body massage.

And don’t forget to call in at the salon for that all important waxing session you promised yourself.

Wollaston Beauty Clinic are proud to use Lycon as their selected brand when it comes to extended bikini waxing. You’ll be pleased to know that it’s the painless alternative to regular

strip waxing, and is especially designed for more delicate areas.

Keeping your skin fully hydrated is key at this time of year, that’s why the fully trained, experienced team are ready and waiting to offer advice on which facial, or home care products, are right for your needs.

They’ll help you find the correct SPF for your skin type too; there are many regular style creams in the Environ range, tinted moisturisers in the Dermalogica range and make-up containing natural sun screen from bareMinerals.

Sunless tanning is very popular now, and the safest way to get a sun-kissed look before you hit the beach. The salon offers St Tropez as its preferred brand, giving you the best colour in spray tanning, hand applied salon treatments, and a wide range of tanning products that you can use at home, with expert advice on how to apply.

So come on, get your summerready body sorted, book in for a special treat and you’ll feel ready to hit the beach straight away.

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Get your feet summer ready limited with our edition summer pedicure * free gift worth ÂŁ41.50 available while stocks last

6 3 ÂŁ free

plus ift* g

Lim

ited

edit

re ion su u c i mmer ped 01384 393305

153 Bridgnorth Road, Wollaston Stourbridge DY8 3NU This offer is not available in conjunction with any other offer, voucher, loyalty card or course of treatments. Advanced payment must be made to secure a booking. No refunds on cancelations or unused bookings. Vouchers are valid for 12 months or where stated.

www.wollastonbeautyclinic.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Look Beautiful on the Beach

By Helen Taylor You’ve been toning up and getting into shape for months, ready to flaunt your bikini body on the beach. So, now your vacation is just around the corner, it’s time to consider planning your holiday beauty routine.

As great as the long hot days are, they can really take their toll on your skin, so it’s important to maintain good beauty habits while you’re away to ensure that you’ll look thoroughly gorgeous when you come back.

Faking It Before you get to your sun-soaked holiday destination, you’ll need to be suitably tanned, so head to the shops and get your hands on a bottle of fake tan that will leave your skin looking beachready in no time. Here’s how to apply your product for a perfect, even, natural-looking result: 1. Thorough exfoliation is key to creating the right base, and it’s best done the night before.

2. Allow 24 hours between waxing and tanning to avoid those annoying dark dots that emerge as a result of the product building up in open follicles.

3. Be really generous with your moisturiser and make sure that it’s fragrance and colour free. Put plenty on your knees, elbows and wrists.

4. Grab a pair of latex gloves, squeeze a dollop of fake tan on to your hand and then work quickly and methodically, covering every inch of your skin evenly. Remember to include your armpits, toes and the backs of your ankles.

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Photograph Courtesy of Next’

Smooth Skin 1. Don’t forget to cleanse, tone and moisturise. Keeping up with those beauty rituals will keep your skin looking hydrated and flawless.

2. Regularly apply and re-apply sunscreen. Ensuring that your entire body is protected against damaging UV rays is a must.

Use a high factor, and remember to re-apply after swimming.

Don’t forget to protect your lips too; use a nourishing balm that contains a sun-block.

3. Keep thoroughly hydrated by drinking at least 2 litres of water a day, more if you’re out in the hot sun for long periods of time.

4. Wear a large hat on the beach.

Not only will you look chic, you’ll also be protecting the delicate skin on your face too.

5. Always apply after-sun lotion.

A long day on the beach calls

for plenty of after-sun when you get back to the hotel.

Fresh Make-Up 1. Keep make-up light in the day by swapping a full-coverage foundation with a tinted moisturiser. Cover imperfections with a little concealer.

2. Wear one coat of quality water-proof mascara on your top lashes for definition. Better still; arrange a trip to your beauty salon for an eyelash and eyebrow tint before you jet off.

3. Sweep a peachy coloured blush over your cheeks for a flattering look. Peach tones look fabulous with bronzed skin and are a much better alternative to pink hues which only serve to add more redness to already flushed cheeks.

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Turn Back the Clock on Ageing Skin at Hayley’s Beauty Boutique If you want to turn back the clock when it comes to your ageing skin this Summer, then pay a visit to Hayley’s Beauty Boutique.

Now located at larger premises, the Kingswinford-based salon offers a revolutionary non-surgical beauty solution in the form of the CACI Ultimate Machine.

A favourite with celebrities everywhere, the CACI Ultimate machine has got some A-list followers: “Jennifer Lopez is a real fan of the machine and is so impressed with the results that she has one in her home.

Lisa Snowdon, Cliff Richard, Michelle Collins, Dale Winton, Barbara Windsor and Martine McCutcheon swear by CACI’s treatments too.”

Owner Hayley explains: “The CACI Ultimate really is the ultimate and most versatile aesthetic treatment system.

It combines Micro current, Facial Toning, Crystal Free Orbital Microdermabrasion and LED Light Therapy Photo Stimulation.”

The CACI Ultimate gets to work on softening lines and wrinkles, toning facial muscles and adding muchneeded hydration to ageing and sundamage skin.

“A unique

“The system enables me to offer a comprehensive range of nonsurgical treatment options which are perfect for female, and male, clients of all ages.”

wrinkle comb applicator combining the synergy of LED red and blue Light Therapy stimulation and high frequency Micro current is used to instantly plump out and soften deep lines and wrinkles, offering an effective alternative to collagen injections and dermal fillers.”

“There’s no pain and no need for any recovery time, which means that clients really enjoy their treatments and can relax and unwind at the same time.”

It’s not just CACI that Hayley’s Beauty Boutique has to offer though; the salon takes care of all of the other services you’d expect too.

“We offer a full range of beauty services, including: Dermalogica facials, Jessica manicures and pedicures, Shellac nails, massages, hot stones, waxing and tinting.”

The UK’s most advanced NON-Surgical Solutions

Now available

at Hayley’s Beauty Boutique This revolutionary non-surgical beauty solution offers a comprehensive range of treatments that improve the look of lines and wrinkles and firm-up sagging skin.

Summer oFFerS for only £440*

10 course Treatment £550

Offer to also include Ultimate Course, Microdermabrasion and Wrinkle Comb.

Trial oFFer for July 2014 only 1 Full Facial Treatment £55 for only £27.50 *To be booked by 31st July 2014, first treatment can start after this date.

To book your free consultation

please call Hayley on 01384 293998 or 07855 891277 5 High St, Wall Heath DY6 0HB (FREE PARKING)

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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If you’ve had enough of those stubborn fatty areas on your body that won’t seem to budge - no matter how much you diet and exercise - then you’ll be pleased to hear that Olivia’s Beauty has got just the solution you’ve been looking for - i-Lipo.

And it’s the ideal treatment for ladies who have got a special event just around the corner.

Maybe your wedding day is fast approaching, or that special holiday isn’t too

L/R: Stacey, Fiona, Georgina

Loose Those Extra Inches This Summer with Olivia’s Beauty far away, either way, there’s never been a better time to book in at Olivia’s and get on the road to looking fabulous this summer.

And what’s more the salon has recently undergone an extensive renovation, meaning that you’ll get chance to check out the salon’s newest features; there’s three dedicated treatment rooms, a sunbed room and a spray tan room.

To go along with the changes at the salon, owner Fiona Brooks, has also added a new service to her already extensive list of treatments - Faceframe 3D Eyebrows. Through the application of synthetic eyebrow hairs, natural brows are filled-out, lengthened and shaped.

Here Fiona answers your questions on iLipo:

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Q. What is i-Lipo?

A. i-Lipo is a revolutionary new laser treatment that offers clients an alternative to invasive liposuction surgery. There is no anaesthesia required because i-Lipo is completely pain free. It doesn’t bruise and there’s no risk of infections, because it’s a noninvasive treatment. You don’t need to allow any time for recuperation, because it’s non-surgical.

been fully approved by the FDA. i-Lipo is suitable for use on all skin types and doesn’t damage any of the body’s tissue, cells or organs.

Q. What results should I expect?

A. Results can be seen immediately after treatment. You can typically expect to see a 2-4cm reduction in fat on your abdomen with every treatment. A course of 8 treatments is recommended over 4 weeks with 2 treatments per week.

Q. How does it work?

A. i-Lipo works by emitting low levels of laser energy which targets fat cells in the body via a chemical signal, so that they can be broken down and then burned off during a short period of exercise after treatment.

Q. Can i-Lipo be used on any part of the body?

A. Yes. Arms, legs, bottoms, thighs, tummies, hips and even double chins all benefit from i-Lipo.

Q. Is it safe?

A. The procedure is completely safe - it’s non-surgical and it has

Q. How much does an i-Lipo treatment cost?

A. As little as £55 per treatment.

For further details visit www.oliviasbeauty.com

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Newly hed Refurbis

GET THE BODY YOU’VE ALWAYS WANTED

i-Lipo is an award winning revolutionary system, manufactured in the UK which uses low level lasers for fat reduction, cellulite smoothing and body shaping treaments.

• Lose 1-2 dress sizes in the area you choose after a course of 8 treatments • See results after just 1 treatment • A painless and very effective machine which is just as good as liposuction • Improves the appearance of cellulite, and improves fat reductions & skin tightening • i-Lipo from Chromogenex has received FDA clearance for Circumferential Reduction.This is the first non-invasive skin contact system to receive such clearance.

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with our extensive range of facial, massage, nail, beauty treatments and much more!

For further details or to book any beauty treatments please call 01902 335355

www.oliviasbeauty.com

50a Warstones Road, Penn, Wolverhampton WV4 4LP www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Red Polka Dot Bikini Top £25 Bottoms £18 Dickins & Jones

Bikini Top £20 Bikini Bottoms £18 Dickins & Jones Stripe Triangle Bikini Top £18

Stripe Swimsuit £45

Stripe Bottoms £15

Dickins & Jones

Bottoms £15 Dickins & Jones

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Swimwear Looks You’ll Love

By Helen Taylor Floral Bikini £23 Dorothy Perkins

Zebra Print Swimsuit £28 Wallis

Rose Print Bikini Top £39 Bottoms £29 Phase Eight

Stripe Tankini, Black Briefs £45 La Redoute

Swimdress £39.50 Evans Swimsuit £28 Wallis

Ceramic Watch £199 Bering at T.A. Henn Wolverhampton

Rose Print Bikini Top £39 Bottoms £29 Phase Eight

Swimsuit £35 Evans

Whether you’re at home or abroad this summer, make sure that you hit the beach in style by choosing one of the many fabulous swimwear looks that have taken over the high street.

If you’re daring enough to bare all in a bikini, take your pick from colourful, bold, floral designs that’ll look great with your tan.

But, if you prefer something a little more covering you’ll love the choice of less revealing designs, like classic swimsuits, flattering tankinis and the latest swimdress styles.

Ceramic Watch £79 Bering at T.A. Henn Wolverhampton Earrings £115 Ti Sento Milano at T.A. Henn Wolverhampton

Animal Print Cat Eye Sunglasses £200 Jimmy Choo at Vision Express

Pendant £120 Ti Sento Milano at T.A. Henn Wolverhampton

The images used in this article are readily available in various places on the internet and are believed to be in the public domain.

Town & Village Life magazine claims no credit for them unless otherwise noted. If you own the rights to any of the images, or if any content appearing in Town & Village Life magazine infringes on your copyright, please notify us and they will be promptly removed.

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Photograph Courtesy of Penneys

Protect Your Hair This Summer

By Helen Taylor It’s great for us to be outdoors, enjoying the sunshine, but it’s not so good for our hair.

The combination of heat, sun and swimming can really have a negative effect on our tresses, leaving them looking dull, dry and frazzled.

But don’t let that ruin your summer holiday; instead follow our tips and your keep hair looking thoroughly gorgeous.

1. Before you depart for your vacation, visit your hairdresser for a good trim. It’s best to remove any dry, split ends before you hit the beach to ensure your hair remains in tip-top condition.

2. When you’re relaxing by the pool, slather a leavein conditioner onto your hair. This will help to protect against damage from the sun and will leave your locks looking thoroughly shiny, as the heat makes the product even more effective.

3. Always rinse your tresses with fresh water after swimming in the sea or pool. Both salt and chlorine dry hair out.

4. Keep hair up and covered as much as possible in the daytime.

5. Treat your locks to a few drops of a leavein conditioning hair oil before bed.

Hair Colour - Design - Cut - Styling - Hair Extensions Creative Director Paul Aston has over 25 years experience having competed in many international hair shows around the world.

Add volume, length, colour or curls, the choice is yours.

Connect Hair Extensions are used by many A-List celebrities and socialites in the know.

(Suitable for most hair)

To book a free consulation call Paul on (01902) 765975 1a Brantley Avenue, Finchfield, Wolverhampton WV3 9AP London • New York • Melbourne • Paris • Sydney • Wolverhampton 84

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

With our dental implants...

Life doesn’t have to stop because of failing teeth.

Telephone 01902 420654 for a complimentary consultation

An Independent Dental Practice

82 Tettenhall Road Wolverhampton WV1 4TF www.mytis.co.uk part of Jon Pugh Dental

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Getting you back into Motion - Orthopaedic Surgery at the Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital shortest time possible. You can selfrefer for physiotherapy consultations.

Appointments can be scheduled by contacting the department direct on 01902 793224.

How you can Get the Nuffield Treatment

With ever increasing waiting lists on the NHS for orthopaedic surgery why wait? We have been successfully treating orthopaedic problems for over 50 years.

We treat everything from arthritic joints through to numerous types of sports injuries. So when you are in pain and your ability to move is restricted, it is important to find out how to treat the problem.

Our Orthopaedic consultants are experts in the field with years of specialist experience. They are all registered with the GMC (General Medical Council). The majority of our Orthopaedic Consultants specialise in an area of the body.

These sub-specialities can vary, but predominantly categorised into hip, knee, shoulder and elbow, hand and wrist, foot and ankle and spinal surgery.

Some of the common conditions that we treat are: Knee Treatments • Anterior or posterior cruciate ligament repair • Arthroscopic keyhole knee surgery • Unicompartmental knee replacement • Total knee replacement Hip Treatments • Hip resurfacing • Hemiarthroplasty • Total hip replacement Foot and AnkleTreatments • Tendon and ligament repair and reconstruction • Arthroscopic (Keyhole) examination and repair • Toe surgery • Bunions

Upper Limb Treatments

Our services are available to everyone, whether you have private healthcare or are paying for yourself. The following simple steps outline how you can get fast access to diagnosis or treatment:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • Dupuytren’s release • Ganglion Cyst • Trigger Finger • Shoulder surgery for rotator cuff repairs or impingement • Shoulder replacement surgery • Tennis elbow/golfers elbow

• Visit your GP and let them know you would like to be referred to us here at the Nuffield • Your GP can write you a letter of referral which will detail the care you need or they may suggest which consultant you can see

Spinal treatments

• Call your insurance provider and they can confirm which consultants and healthcare professionals are covered under your membership and that the treatment you need is covered by your policy. They will issue you with a “pre-authorisation” number

• Facet joint injections • Discectomy • Epidurals Your consultant may recommend a conservative course of treatment for your symptoms, such as medication, physiotherapy or injection therapy, rather than a surgical procedure.

Prior to making any decision about recommended treatment, your consultant will explain the full risks and benefits and give you an overview of what to expect from your treatment and recovery.

Imaging and Diagnostics We have a diagnostic suite with x-ray, and ultrasound scanning equipment with MRI and CT scanners. MRI and CT scan are used to investigate soft tissue such as ligaments and tendons and are routinely used by orthopaedic surgeons.

Physiotherapy We have our own in-house Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation department for in-patient and outpatient care. Our physiotherapists bring a high level of experience and expertise so that you can be assured of the highest quality of care and will provide you with the most effective and appropriate treatment to help you recover your full health and wellbeing in the

If you are medically insured:

If you are Paying for Yourself • Following your initial consultation, you can pay for further consultations and treatments as a one off payment or you may be eligible to use our financial partner, First Medical Loans, to spread more manageable payments.

First Medical Loans offer interest-free loans* for up to 10 months. All our prices are totally transparent, including all costs up front – with no hidden extras.

• Contact your consultant or healthcare professional and arrange an appointment that suits you For further information on our orthopaedic services or if you would like to make an appointment with one of our highly experienced orthopaedics consultants please call 01902 275241 where we will be happy to help you every step of the way!

Get The Nuffield Treatment! www.nuffieldhealth.com

This article was provided by The Nuffield Health Group www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals 86

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Our Orthopaedic specialists and Physiotherapists help you get back to doing the things you love Nuffield Health provides personal care before, during and after surgery to guarantee you a comfortable recovery.

So when it comes to your bones don’t just go private, go personal.

Get in touch. And get on with your life 2

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01902 275 241 Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 8LE nuffieldhealth.com/wolverhamptonhospital

*Not including private patient units at NHS hospitals. Local area defined as within 15 miles of the Nuffield Health hospital. We will match against written quotes only. Promise is valid for patients paying for themselves. **Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. “Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention. ***Subject to status.

1217_Wolverhampton_Ortho_surgery_Ad V2.indd 1

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

15/05/2014 16:29

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Now Jan is Picture Perfect with Her New Look “I wouldn’t have my picture taken,” she confesses.

“I know it seems strange, but I did not want to spoil the day for my son. That’s the way I felt. I’d taken some lovely clothes, the setting was lovely and you couldn’t have wished for better . . . the people, ceremony in the pagoda, the beach bungalow where we stayed and the way the locals were so friendly.

“But my teeth were a mess. When I smiled you couldn’t see any of my teeth and I was so embarrassed. I not only spoke with my hand in front of my mouth, I ate like that too,” Jan, from Kidderminster, recalls.

As the groom’s mum, the focus of attention was emotionally crippling.

Now in her 60s, Jan’s troubles began some 40 years ago. Suffering with a gum disorder, her dentist carried out a full clearance.

Jan tolerated a catalogue of denture prescriptions that never “felt comfortable or looked right” and for 15 years her food choices were seriously compromised.

“I couldn’t eat apples, pears, or steak, my gums were always sore and I couldn’t chew properly,” she adds.

Jan’s self-esteem hit rock bottom until she saw an article in a newspaper about Steven Burchell’s work at the Denture Clinic.

Following treatment, Jan is confident and loves her new look.

“On the picture from the wedding my face seems so small, but my whole appearance has changed since meeting Steven,” she adds.

Jan, who found a new confidence and new look at the Denture Clinic

Camera-shy because of failing teeth, images of a dream wedding are missing a mum’s proud smile.

The sun shone, the sea was as blue as the cloudless sky and a small, family group celebrated a wedding on the shoreline of paradise.

With the warm, golden sand beneath their feet, they toasted the happy couple and made memories that would last lifetimes.

Runaway Bay, one of the jewels of the Caribbean, had it all – magic, romance, a spectacular setting and the ultimate backdrop for wedding album pictures – and there were plenty to be taken.

Steven CDT DipRCS (Eng) says: “Jan came to me with dentures that were not really helping her. She had a lot of gum and bone erosion and her dentures were not stable.

“She was not a suitable candidate for implant-retained over-dentures to address the stabilisation issues, so we made her some high-quality, traditional dentures, ensuring a precise fit with the cutting-edge technology we have at the clinic. The outcome is remarkable.”

Says Jan: “I’m planning to go back to Runaway Bay with my husband in 2016 for our 50th wedding anniversary and guess who won’t be frightened to have her picture taken?”

But one person was noticeably absent from the captured images of the smiles, laughter and celebrations.

Only a single frame – a group shot – featured the groom’s proud mum. Jan had travelled more than 4,600 miles to embrace the Big Day moment with five others in the wedding party, but in her own words, “I didn’t feel right.”

Everything was perfect and “it was a lovely, lovely day,” but Jan deliberately melted into the background every time the cameras clicked.

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town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Loose Dentures: Suction Could be the Solution A CUTTING-EDGE development to help resolve the stability problems faced by thousands of denture wearers is being offered by the Denture Clinic.

Steven Burchell Dip CDT RCS(Eng) GDC108353, who heads the teams at his North Street practice in Dudley, and at Total Implant Solutions clinic in Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton, says the invention has the potential to resolve all-toocommon denture stability issues.

Prosthetics are held in place by tiny valve-operated suction devices which are built into the prescription.

A clever diaphragm principle, triggered by bite pressure on patients’ gums, creates a ‘sucking’ vacuum between the soft-tissue mouth lining and the prosthetic.

Steven, whose clinics attracts patients from as far as Spain, the Isle of Skye and the Isle of Anglesey, says: “In recent times we have seen, what I can describe only as strident clinical advances, with implant-retained over-dentures, ‘teeth-in-a-day’ implant procedures and suction solution dentures, all coming into main-stream dentistry.

“We also have clever injection moulding technology which allows excellent fitting outcomes and our clinical solutions have never been so appealing.

Steven Burchell Dip CDT RCS(Eng) – strident advances in clinical solutions

“Implant dentistry as a resolve for stabilisation issues is not suitable for everyone, neither is it all patients’ first preference. The Ultra Suction prosthetics system offers a possible clinical alternative.

The Ultra Suction system – another option to secure both top and lower dentures

“The beauty of this affordable technology is that it can deliver for the right patient excellent denture-retainer qualities without the invasive clinical procedures required for implant work.”

Steven adds: “The device can be mounted on upper or lower teeth and because of its efficiency allows us to consider a reduction in the size of the acrylic ‘plate’ which can improve speech and taste.”

The Denture Clinic can also be found at Wolverhampton, Kidderminster and Bearwood. All consultations are complementary.

on’t D let troublesome dentures let you down • Complete Dentures • Partial Dentures • Suction Dentures • Implant Dentures • Copy Dentures • Denture Relines • Soft Linings • Denture Repairs

FREEPHONE 0800 0285185 Call NOW for a FREE first consultation!

P www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Clinics at Dudley, Wolverhampton, Bearwood and Kidderminster www.denture-clinic.co.uk email: info@denture-clinic.co.uk

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What is a healthcare benefits plan? …

And what’s in it for you? and tests, Professional Therapies, Hospital Cover and Day Cases and many other benefits. All plans include unlimited access to a 24 hour counselling and help line service for when that extra support or advice is needed.

What are the KEY benefits of a healthcare benefits plan?

When most people are asked if they have heard of a healthcare benefit plan most will simply answer with a no.

However, benefit plans have been around since the 1870s and were developed from the hospital contributory scheme which was formerly known as the Saturday Fund or cash plans.

A healthcare benefits plan is an insurance product that allows an individual to receive cash back on healthcare bills, such as, receiving an eye test and ordering prescription glasses. The idea of a benefit plan is to help make every day health treatments affordable and easily accessible. Most people assume that they can manage

‘normal’ healthcare costs, but if you are paying out regularly for optical or dental treatments the cost eventually adds up.

Unlike private medical insurance (PMI), a healthcare benefit plan is an inexpensive way of looking after your health and finances. These plans are becoming vastly popular within the corporate market; as employers are opting to use these plans as an extra incentive for their employees.

There are many plans to choose from which cover individuals, families, seniors and the corporate market.

Paycare has been providing healthcare cover since 1874 and offers a range of plans to support its customer’s needs. A typical Paycare Plan protects you against the costs of Dental, Optical, Chiropody, Specialist Consultations

 No medical is required to join  Premiums do not increase with age  There are no claims related charges  Claim settlement is quick and easy  Policies are pay-monthly schemes so you can cancel at anytime (no contract involved) So let’s get down to the nitty-gritty… and how a cash plan works?

The procedure to register with a healthcare benefit provider is much simpler and faster than PMI or other medical insurances; as there are less joining restrictions. Each healthcare benefits plan differs on what healthcare benefits are covered, the maximum amount you can claim per treatment, and the annual limit payout. Once you have selected the right policy and level of cover for you – you will be asked to declare any pre-existing medical conditions. There is usually a short qualifying period before you can submit any claims.

Once you are set up, you can arrange a healthcare treatment covered by your policy, attend and pay for the treatment as normal, then send the valid receipt of treatment along with a claim form to your benefit plan provider and reclaim the money spent (up to your annual limit payout). Claims are usually settled within 48 hours of the provider receiving the claim form which means you are never left out of pocket for long.

Kevin Rogers Chief Executive, Paycare

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If you would like to find out more about healthcare benefits plans and what Paycare can offer you please visit www.paycare.org or call 01902 252265 town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Local Opticians Celebrates 20 Years in Business Practices to raise funds for charity to mark the occasion local businesses. They also held a very successful open afternoon at the Compton practice.

“As a local independent business, we are incredibly proud to be going strong after 20 years” said Tracey Taylor, Partner and Optometrist at Taylor Biddle Opticians. “Since opening the business, we have strived to offer our patients the very best eye care and continue to invest in the latest eye care advancements and technology. The anniversary prize draw was our way of saying thank you to our wonderful patients who have shown us loyalty and support since we opened in June 1994. We are also looking forward to raising money for two fantastic causes at the same time.”

Taylor Biddle Opticians continually expand their range of eye care services. The Anterior Eye Clinic has proven to be very successful with dry eye sufferers. Optometrist Rosie Birhah who specialises in dry eye treatment uses the latest video microscopy scan to tailor her assessments and treatments to a particular patient’s needs and the results have been very positive.

An Intuitive Colorimeter is the latest addition to their visual dyslexia assessment tools. It is a scientifically proven method of assessing the optimum coloured lenses required by some children and adults who struggle to read. It also been proven to relieve some cases of migraine.

L/R: Olha Lac, Libby Eaton, Mayor of Wolverhampton Councillor Milkinder Jaspal, Tracey Taylor

Taylor Biddle Opticians, who have practices in Compton and Wombourne celebrated 20 years in business in June.

To mark the occasion, they are raising money for two charities.

The Motor Neurone Disease Association was chosen by the staff as a charity that is very close to their hearts. The other is the Premature Baby Unit at New Cross Hospital who provided wonderful care to Partner’s Olha Lac’s son when he was born at only 23 weeks. They are aiming to raise at least £1500 for these two worthwhile causes.

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To raise the money, one pound from every OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scan taken between 1st June and 30 November 2014 will be donated by the practices.

OCT is a revolutionary piece of diagnostic equipment that can detect a number of key eye conditions such as glaucoma, age related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy at the very early stages.

Taylor Biddle Opticians thanked patients for their support with a free anniversary prize draw and gave away 20 brilliant gifts donated by their eye care suppliers and

Olha Lac, who specialises in visual dyslexia says: “During the last three years our treatment has helped many children to achieve their best educationally and grow in confidence in their ability. I am very excited about our new addition and have no doubt that Colorimetry will help to achieve even greater results”.

In May, the (then) mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Milkinder Jaspal visited the Compton practice. The Mayor works as a Governance Consultant which involves working in the education sector. Having seen the benefits of having the symptoms of dyslexia treated at the earliest possible age, he felt that it would greatly help a child grow in confidence and further develop a child to their full potential.

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Designer Frames from… & many more Your Local Family Opticians Full eye examinations Ocular health checks The latest eye scanning OCT technology Now offering Visual Dyslexia assessments This involves a routine sight test, then further, detailed examinations specially designed to highlight any reading problems that may be evident. If appropriate, corrective spectacles and sometimes special tints are prescribed.

www.taylorbiddleopticians.co.uk 39 Bridgnorth Road, Compton Tel: 01902 750 325 34 Windmill Bank, Wombourne Tel: 01902 895 909

Abbiss High Street Wombourne WV5 9DN

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK

YOUR LOCAL SCHOOLWEAR SPECIALIST

Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts Uniform and Accessories

Fashion Jewellery, Handbags and Accessories!

• Schoolwear Saving Club

• Woven Name Tapes

CALL

• Babywear

• NHS Staff Discount

01902 892300

• Wool and Haberdashery

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FOR DETAILS

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Stourbridge Rugby Lunch The Stourbridge Rugby Corporate Sporting Lunch was held this year on Friday 9th May. More than 800 local business leaders attended this highlight of the corporate calendar.

Guest speakers were John Bentley, Lee Mears and David Flatman.

Photo’s courtesy of stevefisherphoto@hotmail.com

1. Barry Adams and Guests of A+H Construction.

2. Ian Faulkes (President) & Andy Whitfield (Treasurer).

3. Bob Burgess (Ceramics Ltd) John Diviney (Tokai Carbon) and Martin Buckle (Interplex Industries).

4. Stuart Rosling, Kevin Probert, Colin Sutton,Giles Cross, Lauren Tunnicliffe, Ian Cosnet and Graham Kilkelly - (Sanlam -Main Sponsors).

5. Ben Dale (Atos), Charlie Curson and Philip Barnsley (Higgs and Sons).

6. Susannah Griffiths and Sam McGuire.

7. Mark Whitehouse (Clarke Associates) Claire Whitehouse (Worton Rock).

8. Jackie Jeavons Fellows and Emily.

Looking for advice on cosmetic surgery?

9. Chris Read, James Tickle and Jonathan Brooks (ESC).

10. Carl Wythes (Stourbridge RFC Chairman), John Bentley (Guest Speaker) and Dick Jeavons - Fellows (Past Chairman).

Book a FREE 10 minute one-to-one chat with a consultant at our next cosmetic events on Monday 21st July 2014 and Tuesday 5th August 2014.

Please call 0845 603 4346 to book your place.

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11. Keith Evans, Craig Povis , Carl Wythes and Chris Robottom.

12. Steve Thomas (Bache Brown) Gary Davis (Garfield Davis Aritects) Jeremy Evans (Little Imp). town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

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Grand Theatre Wolverhampton 1. Sue Bishop, Sam McBride, Jana Kumari, Wendy Dalton.

2. Karen Smallwood, Les and Margaret Millington.

Friends of the Grand Theatre and guests enjoyed a magical day to launch this year’s pantomime, Cinderella, at the Mount Hotel. They were joined by Julian Clary, Joe Tracini and Alice Baker for a lavish reception which involved photos and interviews all followed by a three course lunch.

Looking for advice on cosmetic surgery?

3. Debbie Starrs and Doreen Starrs.

4. Chris Piper, James and June Cruickshank, Pam Allcock.

5. Michael Tomlinson, Tracey Worthington, Julie Beddington, Leslie Taylor.

6. Pat Hayward, Angie Wright, Dawn Jones, Sheila Samways.

7. Joanne Malin, Nick Owen, Vicki Beever.

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Book a FREE 10 minute one-to-one chat with a consultant at our next cosmetic events on Monday 21st July 2014 and Tuesday 5th August 2014.

Please call 0845 603 4346 to book your place.

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

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Stourbridge Rugby Annual Ball Stourbridge Rugby Football Club held its Annual Ball in May. It was another great success with over 600 people attending with everyone enjoying the fabulous food and entertainment. This is definitely the event to be seen at.

Photo’s courtesy of stevefisherphoto@hotmail.com www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

1. James Grenfell and Jacqui Grenfell.

2. L/R - Janet Howes, Mandy Erasmus, Karon Whitticase, Stacey Ball, Elaine White, Suzanne Preston, Natalie Hemming, Tracy Elbro, Nikki Bockhoefer & Mandy Jordan.

3. Zoe Bond and Abbie Bond.

4. Richard Sice, Sarah Kendrick, Jennifer Ferguson and Aiden McCarney.

5. Paul Swiercz, Louise Swiecz, Lynn Taylor and Phil Watkins.

6. Amy Ranford and Polly Mendoza.

7. Lucy Cartwright, Alix Ferguson, Nathan Price and Jemma Marsden.

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Steve Fisher Professional Photographer It's your Special Day at an Extra Special Price Traditional all in Wedding Package

£399 Includes a complete set of 7x5 prints Plus a CD of all photos Tel: 0121 550 8880 Mobile: 07725 026728 Church, Registry Office or Private Venue

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email: ossie.keith1966@googlemail.com

www.wolverhamptonchauffeur.co.uk town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Get your Children SUSSED this Summer

with South Staffordshire Council’s Leisure Centres Get your Children SUSSED this summer with South Staffordshire Council’s Leisure Centres.

This summer South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres are offering 6 weeks of action packed and fun filled sessions to entertain children aged 5-12 years throughout the summer school holiday.

A huge range of activities are on offer every weekday and cost from as little as £3.80 for 2 hours of activities.

Some of the activities available this summer are: • Trampolining • Go-karting • Fizz Pop Science • The Animal Man • Diddi Cars • Supreme Science • Gymnastics • Little Boxers

The great thing about SUSSED is that no block booking is required! Children can come as little or as often as they like and parents can either stay and watch or drop the children off and leave them in the leisure centres hands.

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre Codsall Leisure Centre Penkridge Leisure Centre Wombourne Leisure Centre

01922 417790 01902 844032 01785 714152 01902 898202

Cut out the voucher below and hand in at one of South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres:

FREE SUMMER SUSSED SESSION PASS Voucher valid 21st July – 29th August 2014 Voucher can be redeemed for use on any summer SUSSED session up to the value of £3.80. Visit www.sstaffs.gov.uk/sussed to view sessions. Bookings cannot be taken over the phone with this voucher; Bookings must be made in person at your chosen leisure centre. 1 voucher per person, per offer. Booking is advisable and places are booked on a first come, first served basis.

Child’s Name …………………….........................................................

Leisure Centre …………………..…………………………....................

Name of session …………………………………………………………



Each of South Staffordshire’s leisure centres which include Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne also offer a great pool programme of activities from crash course swimming lessons and parent & toddler’s to fun time with floats and inflatable sessions.

For more information about what’s on offer visit www.sstaffs.gov.uk/sussed. Alternatively you can collect the programmes direct from one of the leisure centres, or call them on:

Date of session …………………………… Time of session …………

Town & Village Life Magazine July/August edition 2014

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The Royal School Wolverhampton

Vet ... Surgeon ... Nobel Prize Winner ... make the right move now for your child’s future

Nurturing and inspiring children every step of the way Developing the Individual www.theroyalschool.co.uk 100

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

New Headmaster at Old Swinford Hospital A Place To Have Fun, Work Hard, Be Stretched And Succeed.

Mr Paul Kilbride will be joining Old Swinford Hospital, Stourbridge, as Headmaster in September.

He will be only the 19th Headmaster to lead Old Swinford Hospital during its illustrious 347 year history and will succeed current Headmaster Peter Jones who will be retiring after 26 years’ service.

Since qualifying as a teacher, Mr Kilbride, aged 40, has taught in both the maintained and independent sectors and until recently, was the Deputy Headmaster at Bethany School in Kent.

During a recent visit to the School, Mr Kilbride said “I am looking forward to joining a superb body of teaching staff and making my contribution to the on-going achievements of pupils as we prepare them for the rigors of the academic curriculum and celebrate their development through sport and the performing arts.

“I am also very interested in how best we may prepare them for a life of change and global challenge beyond school.”

Founded in 1667, Old Swinford Hospital is a state maintained boarding school, one of only 37 in the

country for boys from 11-18, with a mixed Sixth Form. Almost two-thirds of the school’s pupils are full or weekly boarders, but day places (Out Boarders) are available in Year 7 and Year 9.

Located in the West Midlands, the School prides itself on getting the balance right between academic success, preparing its children for the future and nurturing character. Old Swinford Hospital can offer an independent boarding experience at a fraction of the cost because education is funded by the local authority.

The school will be opening its doors to visitors in the autumn for a series of events for prospective parents and pupils to find out what life is really like in a modern boarding school.

Old Swinford Hospital AN OUTSTANDING BOARDING SCHOOL EDUCATION

OPEN MORNINGS

Sat 13th September and Sat 6th October 2014 9.00-11.30am Sat 8th and Sat 15th November 2014 (6th Form) 9.00-11.30am COME ON BOARD EVENING Thurs 9th October 2014 5.30-7.00pm

• Academic excellence • A stunning array of extra-curricular and weekend activities

01384 817325 admissions@oshsch.com

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

6th FORM CHOICES EVENING Tues 25th November Please arrive at either

4.00pm or 6.00pm

• Strong pastoral care system • Boarding fees just £3,650 per term Heath Lane, Stourbridge, DY8 1QX

www.oshsch.com 101

“Leaving a Gift in your Will”

WHAT IS A WILL FOR? For most people it’s one way to look after people we care about once we have passed away. It’s an opportunity to make your wishes known and have them recorded before death.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT Why not leave a Legacy Gift to Compton Hospice?.

A gift, no matter how small will help to ensure that anyone who requires services from Compton Hospice will receive prompt and professional help.

WHERE DOES MY LEGACY DONATION GO? It costs around £6 million pounds per year to fund the quality services at Compton Hospice so we rely on donations and Legacies to continue the work already provided here.

HOW CAN I LEAVE A GIFT IN MY WILL? If you havn’t already done so consider how you would like to help and how much you wish to leave and contact a Solicitor who will give you the correct advice and help. Always ask for a cost for services before you start.

WHAT IF I ALREADY HAVE A WILL? No problem just ask your solicitor for a codicil form or down load one from our website www. compton-hospice.org.uk complete it and store it with your will. Do not pin or staple it.

DO I NEED A SOLICITOR TO MAKE A WILL? It is advisable to use a solicitor. They are in the best position to ensure that your will has been drawn up in the correct way.

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“Leaving a Gift in your Will”

WHAT WAYS ARE THERE TO LEAVE A GIFT TO CHARITY? Residuary Gift This an amount specified after the will content has been shared. Anything left over is the residue and this amount can be all or part of the residue.

Percuniary Gift This is a fixed sum of money stated in the will.

Specific Gift These are called Chattels and moveables They could be personal possessions, including furniture and cars.

CAN I AMMEND MY EXISTING WILL? Yes, by completing a codicil form available from a Solicitor or Charity.

IS THERE A MINIMUM AMOUNT I CAN LEAVE? No any amount or donation is most welcome.

Should you wish to consider leaving a Legacy to Compton Hospice and would like a copy of our will guide please complete the slip below and return to COMPTON HOSPICE, THE CEDARS, 39 COMPTON ROAD WEST, WOLVERHAMPTON, WV3 9DW. Alternatively if you wish to speak to a member of the team, please call 0845 225 5497 and ask for Mary Harding in Fundraising /Legacies

PLEASE SEND A COPY OF THE COMPTON HOSPICE WILL GUIDE First Names:

✂

Surname:

Address: Postcode: Email: www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Get Custom Fit For Better Golf In 2014 As you practice here at Hagley Driving Range & Golf Academy it is essential that you are using golf clubs that are properly fitted to help you get more from your swing.

I am fully trained by Nike, PING, TaylorMade, Mizuno and Titleist to provide you a custom fitting service designed to ensure your clubs work for you. Below is an overview of some of the key steps to our custom fitting service.

Golf Tip

Ben Sorrill PGA Coach, Hagley GCC’s Driving Range & Golf Academy

Step 2: Dynamic checks

Step 1: Interview and static measurements In this initial part of the process I ask you what it is you want from your golf clubs. It is then possible for me to help you meet these needs. I then measure you from wrist to floor to help determine the correct length of club.

Here we will strike balls from a lie board. Lie tape is placed onto the sole of your club and as balls are struck from the board marks are left on the tape. Depending on the position of these marks we may determine the ‘lie angle’ of your clubs. This will potentially have a large influence on the direction your ball leaves the club face.

Step 3: Shaft selection

Wassell Grove Lane, Hagley, Nr. Stourbridge DY9 9JW www.hagleygolfpro.co.uk To book your FREE Custom Fit Experience with me email:

golfcoach@hotmail.co.uk or call 01562 883852 quoting ‘town and village offer’.

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Here we use data on club head speed, ball speed and backspin rates produced by our Flightscope Launch Monitor. This data gives us an objective guide as to how each club is performing. It also helps us select the shaft that helps you translate your club head speed into ball speed and distance whilst maintaining control over direction. The ultimate combination!

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

WERGS GOLF CLUB

2 YEARS

MEMBERSHIP FOR THE PRICE OF

1 YEAR 7 DAY £660 – MONTHLY PAYMENTS AVAILABLE

SPECIAL DEALS AVAILABLE FOR SOCIETIES* *All packages minimum of 12 people

PAR PACKAGE

BIRDIE PACKAGE

EAGLE PACKAGE

18 holes of golf.

Full English breakfast.

Weekdays £25pp.

Weekends/Bank Holidays £30pp.

18 holes of golf. Roast carvery.

Dessert of the day.

Weekdays £30pp.

Weekends/Bank Holidays £35pp.

18 holes of golf. Full English breakfast.

Roast carvery. Dessert of the day.

Weekdays £35pp.

Weekends/Bank Holidays £40pp.

WEEKDAY GOLF £20.00

WEEKEND GOLF £25.00

TWILIGHT GOLF FROM £12.00

Wergs Golf Club

FoR FURThER inFoRMATion on GoLF,

Keepers Lane, Tettenhall Wolverhampton West Midlands WV6 8UA

DininG oR FUncTionS oR To MAKE A

e info@wergsgolfclub.com

booKinG pLEASE cALL

01902 742 225

www.wergsgolfclub.com www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

prices correct at time of going to print 105

Feeling Hot Hot Hot

Shirt £25 Chino Shorts £16 Sunglasses £13 Next

By Helen Taylor

Make sure that you’ve packed the hottest selection of on-trend beach buys before you jet off into the sun, because being on holiday isn’t an excuse to let your style take a vacation.

Slim-fit, patterned shirts are a must for summer 2014 - opt for anything that features vibrant colours and prints.

Shorts are always a holiday must-have; tailored varieties are definitely a good pick. When it comes to swim shorts, short styles are a fashion-forward choice, but if they’re not for you Bermuda shorts will be a great alternative.

Shirt £22 Shorts £22 Sunglasses £13 Watch £25 Next

Flip Flops £20 Topman Stripe Shorts Linea

£45

Rio Photo Print T-Shirt

£18

Burton

Tungsten Carbide ring

£65

Men’s Leather Bracelets

from £29

Available to order in different sizes

at T.A. Henn

FC-270SW4P6 Frederique Constant Classics Business Timer Gents

£720

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Rings start from £29 in steel at T.A. Henn Stainless steel ring

£49

Available to order in different sizes

Multi Coloured T-Shirt

£16

Topman

town & village life magazine | july/august 2014

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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The first-ever

BMW 2 Series Active Tourer The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer sees BMW for the first time expand its portfolio to introduce front-wheel drive and three cylinder engines in the model lineup.

Following on from the coupé as the second member of the new BMW 2 Series range, the Active Tourer combines dynamism, style, elegance and practicality in one cleverly packaged car.

New lightweight turbocharged engines with three and four cylinders, a comprehensive package of BMW EfficientDynamics measures and the extensive connectivity provided

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by BMW ConnectedDrive are all elements in a driving experience that allows sporty performance and incredible efficiency.

Stylish design, premium cabin and innovative packaging Practical shouldn’t mean prosaic: while the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is uniquely versatile it is also distinctively styled. From the low-rise double kidney grille, which is positioned lower than the headlights, a feature normally only found on BMW coupés, to the steeply raked windscreen and clearly defined and sculpted bonnet, the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer has a low-slung, sporty appearance.

Balance, as always in a BMW, is key and the short overhangs are classic BMW styling cues while the long wheelbase, wedge profile, L-shaped rear lights, crisp contours and eye-catching swage lines give the car great impact and athletic appearance.

Despite the compact exterior dimensions, the interior is light and surprisingly spacious, with comfortable seating for five people.

A large glass area ensures the cabin is light and airy throughout – an effect further enhanced by the optional panoramic roof and by the A-pillar triangle window, both of which also improve all-round visibility.

town town & village life magazine | january/february & village life magazine | july/august 2014

Handling: comfortable ride with agile handling For the first time BMW has introduced front-wheel drive into its model range, but in order to do so, and retain the sporty characteristics necessary in every one of its cars, it chose to start with a blank sheet of paper. The result is a new, state-of-the-art, front-wheel drive system on the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer that balances comfort and agility – both key requirements of customers in the segment, but rarely met in other vehicles.

Two new engines: innovative three-cylinder petrol and lightweight diesel

The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer has innovative all-new transverse engines, perfectly matched to the space-efficient concept of the car. The new BMW 218i Active Tourer is powered by an all-new three-cylinder engine. This ultra-low-friction, all-aluminium core engine is part of a newly developed modular family comprising light weight, high-performance and fuel-efficiency, equipped with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. The result is CO2 emissions of only 115g/km, yet peak power of 136hp.

The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

• Functionality with agility: clever packaging and new chassis innovations • Space for five occupants and huge load carrying ability • Two new engines from launch including innovative three-cylinder petrol • CO2 emissions from only 109g/km thanks to BMW EfficientDynamics On sale from September 27th, starting from less than £23,000 OTR. Contact Benham Wolverhampton on 01902 457000 for more information.

Contact Benham Wolverhampton for more information www.benhambmw.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Four Ashes Renault Specialists also a Renault Master Technician.

We charge a £48 diagnostic fee but if we carry out any of the repair work relating to the diagnostic we waive the diagnostic fee.

If your vehicle is still under manufacturer’s warranty we still can service your vehicle. We service all vehicles to manufacturers’ requirements and use genuine Renault parts, along with stamping your service book (if available).

Because we follow the correct guidelines and use genuine Renault parts your warranty is NOT affected.

If you have an extended warranty on your vehicle with companies such as the AA, RAC, Warranty Direct, Motorcare and all other companies, we can carry out the repairs to your vehicle.

Four Ashes Renault Specialists Ltd is a well-established family run business situated just off the main A449 Stafford Road between Coven and Gailey.

Now in our 9th year of trading the company has gone from strength to strength offering our excellent

skills and services to the motor vehicle servicing / repair industry for both retail and trade customers.

Here at Four Ashes we are considered by many as one of the best Renault diagnostic specialists in the country. We have Renault ‘CLIP’ diagnostic equipment, which is essential when working with Renaults and a highly skilled team with many years’ experience all of whom are Renault trained technicians and

We offer a free local pick up and drop off service for all service & MOT’s or alternatively we can provide you with a free courtesy car (conditions apply). If required we can service your vehicle whilst you wait, we have a waiting room with TV and refreshments or alternatively we highly recommend a visit to the local pub FOUR ASHES INN if you fancy a bite to eat.

In the event of a breakdown we have own recovery truck with very competitive rates and in some cases we offer free recovery.

LATEST NEWS!! 2.0L DCi VANS

M9R Engine Injector problems? Engine Issues?

Recently we have invested a lot of money in tooling to remove seized or broken injectors in M9R engines fitted in Trafic, Vivaro & Primastar vans in order to save our customers expensive repair bills.

The seizing of these injectors is due to water ingress from poor sealing of the scuttle panel from factory. This water sits on top of the rocker cover which houses the injectors and over time the water penetrates the wells where the injectors sit. Corrosions then occurs which in turn short circuits the injector(s) causing misfires and cutting out issues. The problematic injectors(s) become an issue to remove due to the amount of corrosion they have suffered. We have seen many garages and customers incurring costs of £1000’s due to snapped injectors which have resulted in damaged cylinder heads and even worse complete engine replacements.

We can also carry out any other repair work to these M9R engines such as timing chain replacements and engine re-builds.

Don’t risk the chance of costly repairs such as a replacement cylinder head or engine by attempting removal without the correct tools or knowledge, call the experts.

At present we have a 100% success rate. We will also seal the scuttle panel after the repair free of charge to prevent any further ingress of water.

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WHY PAY DEALERSHIP PRICES TO SERVICE

YOUR RENAULT? MINOR SERVICE £89* ALL INCLUSIVE

Servicing with us at Four Ashes will not affect your Manufactures Warranty. We also service all other Renault models out of the warranty period.

FULL SERVICE £149* ALL INCLUSIVE

www.fourashesrenault.co.uk MOT NOW OPEN FOUR ASHES ACCIDENT REPAIRS LTD ALL IN-HOUSE FACILITY OFFERING A FULL RANGE OF BODYSHOP SERVICES

FOR ALL MODELS AND MODELS! Including: * Accident and Insurance Work * Full and Partial Resprays * Scratch and Chip Repairs * Alloy Wheel Repairs

Had an accident, in need of a respray?

Give Us A Call!

11 Reg Vehicles (3 years old) - Your MOT is (or soon will be) due - Check your date of registration on your vehicle log book.

• MOT testing arranged • Large stoock of new and used parts • Computerised diagnostic (main dealer equipment) • Accident/mechanical repairs & insurance work undertaken • All work is fully guaranteed!

• Courtesy Cars free of charge • Pick up and Drop-off service* • Servicing while you wait *conditions apply, please call for more details

WITH ANY SERVICE

£25 *All models over 3 years old and out of Renault warranty period. Prices start from as listed.

Please call for more details and exact price for your vehicle.

09 Reg and 59 Reg Vehicles DONT FORGET YOUR CAM/TIMING BELT! Most Renaults require Cam/Timing Belt change at 72,000 miles or 5 years (whichever comes first).

Cam/Timing Belt failure will result in serious engine damage, so make sure yours is changed at the correct intervals. Call us for more details.

FOUR ASHES RENAULT SPECIALISTS Station Drive, Four Ashes, Wolverhampton WV10 7BU

01902 790123 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Animal Matters from work in such a manner and thus, when you want it to, the GT86 is easy to keep in line with its wheels in-line, handling as well as anything else out there at this price-point; never needing a stern ticking off from its master.

Also, as its maximum torque and power arrives high up in the rev band, it pulls hard at its leash, like Lassie when there’s danger afoot. It likes a run too: I took it out earlier this morning and it returned 34.1 mpg, so you won’t need to buy too much Pedigree Chum if you decide to adopt one from your friendly neighbourhood dealer for around £25,000.

Rob Taylor gets behind the wheel of the sexy Toyota GT86 and unleashes some animal instincts I’ve just seen the new Planet of the Apes film and it’s got me thinking.

Not about a dystopian future and all attendant unease to apes riding horses, but in a way no filmmaker could ever have imagined.

It’s got me thinking about the Toyota GT86 and the delicate concept of anthropomorphising cars. Ascribing human attributes to distinctly inhuman things is not unfamiliar to us. In pets, it’s common. But can it be possible with cars? Or - more specially - can a new car be your new best friend?

KITT in Knight Rider was vaguely human. So too Bumblebee in Transformers. And some cars today are even so clever that they drive you to work. I know people who name their car. There’s certainly enough love out there for cars and, it seems, there’s nothing but love for this sexy 2+2 tearaway.

197 bhp and 151 lb ft developed from its 2 litre Boxer engine is more than adequate to propel the GT86 from 0-62 mph in 7.6 seconds and on to a 140 mph top speed.

Now I’ve dispensed with the quantifiable, I must endeavour to articulate just what it is exactly about this car that has my mind wandering into transcendental realms. In short, what it is that causes me to liken it to a person; or rather - in the case of the GT86 - a dog.

Firstly, it can be optioned with a proper manual gearbox (no, not a dog leg ’box, for those of you chuckling at the back). Secondly, it’s rear-wheel drive. Thirdly, it has skinny tyres from a Prius. That’s right, it’s a car that likes to wag its tail a little. And when it does, it’s a hoot, but it’s not as if you are going to drive back and forth

You may now be thinking that it’s not so cheap after all, but remember, because all the fun and frolics come courtesy of a well-honed chassis, low-centre of gravity, rear-drive, skinny tyres and a modest power-plant which doesn’t require ridiculously complex stability-control systems, there’s no expensive veterinary bills to consider.

That’s not to say that the GT86 can’t be driven sedately and without provocation; it can, and it rides very well, never feeling uncomfortably wearing. Equally, it’s important not to confuse lightness with sparseness of creature comforts: the interior even boasts cruise control and Bluetooth connectivity as standard. Not to mention that it comes with a 5-year warranty.

So then: animals as people?

Definitely. Cars as animals?

Maybe. The GT86? I call him Max.

The GT86 is a affordable, backto-basics old school adrenaline shot which breaks up the monotonous motoring malaise of 2014. And happily it does it all without any lip-service to the Jeremy Clarkson endorsed maxim of “just add more power.”

Instead the Toyota adheres more closely to Colin Chapman’s ethos of weight-saving, tipping the scales at just over 1200 kg. Thusly the 112

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• • • • • • • • • • • •

Vehicle Accident RepAiRs smARt BumpeR RepAiRs minoR dent RemoVAl Vehicle RespRAys 4 Wheel Alignment Alloy Wheel RepAiRs 24-houR RecoVeRy Bsi pAs 125 AccRedited RepAiRs collection And deliVeRy seRVice couRtesy cARs And VAns AVAilABle AiR conditioning seRVicing And RepAiRs AppRoVed to All leAding insuRAnce compAnies

F re e Courtesy Car!

VAUXHALL APPROVED ACCIDENT & REPAIR CENTRE Worried about your large insurance excess?

CAN WE REPAIR FOR LESS? Call in and get a FREE QUOTATION FIRST!

IT COULD SAVE YOU £££S! DUDLEY

MERRY HILL

WOLVERHAMPTON

01384 277050 Building 28 First Avenue Pensnett Trading Estate Kingswinford DY6 7UA

01384 489300 Canal Street Brierley Hill DY5 1JJ

01902 426756 Drayton Street Wolverhampton WV2 4EE

w w w.bodyk raf t.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel Image Luxury Travel 98 Antiques & Auctioneers Old Mill Antiques Centre 56 Appliances Electrical/Gas Capital Appliances 43 Geoff Hill 29 Artificial Lawn Supply & Installation Nevermo 49 Awnings Castle Blinds 41 Bathrooms Eaton Kitchens 15 Roman Bathrooms 21 Wall Heath Bathrooms 19 Beds & Bedroom Furniture Blyth Group 12/13 Cousins 6/7 Interiors Italia 22/23 Sofa Factory Outlet 17 Woodrobes 11 Blinds/Curtains Blyth Group 12/13 Castle Blinds 41 Hatfield Interiors 44 Love your Blinds 25 Val Hever Blinds 58 Virgo Carpets & Interiors 37 Beauticians Hayley’s Beauty Boutique 79 Wollaston Beauty Clinic 77 Building & Maintenance Contractors Build a Solution 45 Three Pines 5 Building Societies Dudley Building Society 46 Car Body Repair Specialists Bodykraft 113 Carpets & Flooring (Supply & Fit) N D Walters 15 Car Sales/Service Benham BMW 116 ETB 107 Four Ashes Renault 111 Cleaning Services Time For You 47

Cosmetic & Beauty Clinics Hayley’s Beauty Clinic Olivia’s Beauty Clinic Medi Visage Dentistry Denture Clinic Total Implant Solutions Education Oldswinford School Royal School Entertainment & Leisure South Staffs Leisure The Grand Theatre The Kingfisher Wolverhampton City Show Wolverhampton Racecourse Fencing & Gates OCL Profence Fireplaces/Stoves Flaming Fires Wolverhampton Fireplaces Furniture/Furnishings Blyth Group Cousins Hatfield Interiors Interiors Italia Sofa Factory Outlet Virgo Carpets & Interiors Garage Services ETB Four Ashes Renault Garden Design Boningale Garden Creations Gardening/Landscaping Lealans Garden Centre OCL Galleries/Gift Shops Stourbridge Galleries Golf Clubs / Tuition Hagley Golf Club Pro Shop Wergs Golf Club Hairdressing Salons Stargaze Health Care Cover Paycare

79 81 73 89 85 101 100 99 115 2/66 100 65 55 50 11 45 12/13 6/7 44 22/23 17 37 107 111 53 54 55 39 104 105 84 91

Hospices Compton Hospice 103 Hospitals (Private) Nuffield 87 Hot Tubs Webbs of Wychbold 51 Interior Designers Blyth Group 12/13 Hatfield Interiors 44 Virgo Carpets & Interiors 37 Kitchens (Supply, design & fit) Dream Doors 31 Eaton Kitchens 15 Roman Bathrooms 21 Opticians Taylor Biddle 93 Painters/Decorators Dave Russon 50 Personal Shopping/ Wardrobe Consultant S J D Personal Styling 75 Photography Steve Fisher 98 Plumbing & Heating Services Aquarius Heating & Plumbing 50 Restaurants/Pubs Bravaccios 58 French Connection 69 Halfpenny Green Vineyards 57 Kingfisher 61 Saffron Pink 68 The Bentlands 59 Vesuvio 68 Wolverhampton Racecourse 65 Wombourne Tandoori 59 School Wear Abbiss 93 Theatres The Grand Theatre 115 Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Vineyards 57 Wedding Venus / Function Rooms Kingfisher 67 Windows & Conservatories August Home Improvements 27 Choices Windows 35 Hayley Windows 19

Puzzle Answers Sudoku:

Easy

Quick Crossword:

Hard

Word Search: Hidden Phrase: A bad workman always blames his tools.

Unknown

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WOLVERHAMPTON GET READY FOR THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE!

TUE 23 SEP - SAT 11 OCT

01902 42 92 12

www.grandtheatre.co.uk

www.dirtydancingontour.com www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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The New BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

Benham Wolverhampton

The Ultimate Driving Machine

FOR BUSINESS AND LEISURE. THE NEW BMW 2 SERIES ACTIVE TOURER. 27 SEPTEMBER.

For more information call us on 01902 457000 or visit www.benhambmw.co.uk

Benham Wolverhampton Lever Street, Wolverhampton West Midlands WV2 1AD

Fuel economy figures for the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer range: Urban 46.3-56.5mpg (6.1–5.0l/100km). Extra Urban 67.2-78.4mpg (4.2–3.6l/100km). Combined 57.6-68.9mpg (4.9–4.1l/km). CO2 emissions 115-109g/km. Please note these figures are based on preliminary data

and are not confirmed. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions.

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