Town & Village Life Magazine - November/December 2017

TOWn & VILLAGE LIFE Magazine

November/December - 2017 Christmas Edition

Win a mixed case of 6 award-winning wines with Halfpenny Green Wine Estate

TOWN & VILLAG E LIFE MA GA Z INE

Win panto tickets to see Jack and The Beanstalk at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

November/December - 2017 Christmas Edition

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 | november/december 2017

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42

48-49

Hello Readers,

But back to the brighter side of the festivities: check out some quirky alternatives to the High Street at Country Baskets and Stourbridge Galleries, then read up on our Beauty gift-buying ideas and notes on how to fill your home with seasonal sparkle. There’s just so much to feast your eyes upon in this edition, we’ll even tell you how to plan your Christmas family feast.

As Trick or Treaters frolic in fancy dress outside my window, I must push the limits of my meagre imagination to conjure a vision of Christmas Future. So get ready for happy times ahead - all I need now are some chestnuts.

We wish all our readers a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Panto season is here: win tickets to see Gareth Gates in Jack and the Beanstalk at The Grand.

Also up for grabs is a chance to win six bottles of award-winning wine from Halfpenny Green

Contents

Advertising enquiries Email: gisella@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk Gisella Wiley (Sales Director) Editorial/What’s On information Email: info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk Geoff Hall (Editor) Magazine Design Studio 28 Design & Print (www.s28.co.uk)

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

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Vineyards. All the usual suspects are inside too, including a bumper Eating Out section stretching across 18 pages, a multitude of Beauty and Fashion and a generous group of articles on Golf. Plus: a cautionary tale about Home Security, following a recent burglary at TVL HQ. Make sure you don’t let thieves steal your Christmas!

There’s not much we don’t love about Christmas at Town & Village Life. Mince pies, mulled wine; sleepy afternoons spent watching It’s a Wonderful Life, extra time with family and friends and, yes, the presents (including the novelty socks!) are all pretty great reasons to love the festive season.

In fact, at a push, I’d say that Christmas is my favourite time of the year, but here’s the rub: due to the vagaries of magazine publishing I have to write to you all about it in late October.

Bring your home to life with fragrance Stourbridge Rugby Club Crosswords & Puzzles Hagley Art Club, 28th Annual Exhibition Kinver Rotary club Dress up the home for Christmas Home security: Safe and sound Local Choirs Sings to help Breast Cancer Charity Recipe of the month Grand Theatre competition Holy Trinity Church Wordsley, Christmas Tree Festival Dudley South Ladies Luncheon Club

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4 10 14 18 18 24 28 30 32 36 40 40

Geoff

November/December edition 42 NSPCC is double winner at Annual Higgs & Sons Quiz Kinver Rotary Santa’s Sleigh 44 My guide to Christmas Day by Henry the Staffy 48/49 Gardening with Ann Winwood 54 Halfpenny Green Wine Estate competition 58 Enjoy the Festive Season at Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 64/65 The Cowshed food review 74/75 78/79 Wombourne Tandoori food review Blue Ginger food review 84/85 Time to Party – Find the perfect hair and make-up Look 92 96/97 Women’s fashion: Perfect party style Christmas gift ideas from Heaven 100 Mind Babble: No pain no gain 102 Social scene 120/121 Ford Mustang: American beauty 122 Answers to Crossword & Puzzles 130

Congratulations to: Winner of The Spamalot competition at The Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Carol Kibbler, Stourbridge

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.

Total distribution 16,000 copies bi-monthly

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Bring your home to life with fragrance With the ability to lift your mood, evoke forgotten memories and create atmosphere, fragrance is an incredibly important part of all our lives.

In fact, as our sense of smell is one of our most powerful senses, the impact a whiff of perfume can have shouldn’t be ignored.

Just as a specific eau de toilette or cologne can become ever associated with a particular person, when it comes to home fragrance scents can be just as personal.

And, whether you want to make your room feel bigger and brighter, more intimate and cosy or even create the perfect festive feel this Christmas, it’s easy if you choose the right fragrance.

A Haven of Relaxation Transform your home into a haven of relaxation by opting for a diffuser or scented candle that’s fragranced with scents of lavender, chamomile, bergamont, mandarin or jasmine.

It’s ideal for the bathroom, so dim the lights, slip into a warm bath and enjoy the scent whilst letting the stresses of the day melt away.

Light, Bright and Airy Light, fresh and citrus scents are perfect for producing an uplifting feel and work to create a feeling of space. They’re ideal for the summer months and for those who want to complement a sleek and minimalist home interior style.

Remember, diffusers are a great way to scent your room if you don’t want to leave candles burning.

Cosy and Comfortable Give your living space that homely feel with welcoming woody scents that are accompanied by warm accents of vanilla, ginger and spice.

The fragrance is ideal for the autumn and winter months and serves to bring warmth into every 04

home. By positioning your diffuser or fragranced candle by the doorway visitors will be treated to the full effect of the fragrance when they step in from the cold.

Festive Feeling With Christmas just around the corner, you’ll no doubt be busy decorating your home to create the perfect festive look. So, why not bring your decorations to life by adding some scented candles?

Not only is the flickering flame of a candle perfect for making things feel extra Christmassy, when it’s combined with the aroma of winter berries, spicy orange and forest pine,

there’s no better way to encapsulate the feel of the festive season.

Unique, beautifully fragranced and inspired by nature – that’s the ethos of the St Eval Candle Company in a nutshell. This ecological award winning company is based in the Cornish countryside and produces candles and reed diffusers of the highest quality. Best selling scents include Bay and Rosemary, with its invigorating combination of herbal rosemary and cool bay leaf , Sea Salt, a unique blend of ozonic and citrus scents which are reminiscent of the ocean, Inspiritus, a lovely blend of aromatic, festive spices and Orange & Cinnamon, with zesty orange and spicy cinnamon.

These fragrances are available as Diffusers, Candle Tins, Tealights and in a selection of stylish ceramic Candle Pots available from Stourbridge Galleries.

When it comes to choosing the perfect centrepiece for your Christmas table, a candle set in a decorative holder is the perfect choice.

Don’t forget, candles, candle holders and diffusers make for perfect presents, so why not delight everyone on your gift list this year with a special scent?

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

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.

New build properties - Albrighton

New build property - Albrighton

The building company has over 50 years of experience in construction, covering commercial and domestic development, with many of the carpenters and bricklayers having been employed by the company for over 20 years.

The company is well established as being outstanding in its refurbishment and maintenance contracts and is considerate of the care and understanding needed when working on projects in both domestic and commercial sectors.

Refurbishment of ‘The Old Smithy - Albrighton

All work carried out on behalf of Boningale Homes

w w w. t h r e e - p i n e s . c o. u k Cullwick Court, Cullwick Street, Wolverhampton WV1 2UR Tel:www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk 01902 499919 Email: info@three-pines.co.uk

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THE ROOKERY, WOMBOURNE A magnificent residence with immense presence standing in a fine area with extensive and flexible accommodation.

The elegant property has a superb main house with three reception rooms, orangery, kitchen/ dining room, four bedrooms, study, bathroom and shower room together with an adjoining two storey annex with reception room, garden room, kitchenette, shower room and two bedrooms.

Detached triple garage block, gated drive and superb grounds. Total area approx. 0.5 acres. (EPC: D).

OFFERS AROUND ÂŁ1,095,000 VIEWING: Please contact the Tettenhall Office.

13-15 High Street, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 8QS Telephone: (01902) 747744

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www.berrimaneaton.co.uk town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

BROOK HOUSE, HEATHTON, CLAVERLEY One of the area’s most significant properties, privately positioned in around 10 acres of glorious parkland near Claverley.

This fine Manor House residence consists of seven bedroom accommodation with spacious entertaining reception rooms and orangery off a splendid kitchen.

From the formal gardens there is a large carport and range of outbuildings that could provide potential business use. Around 9 miles from Wolverhampton train station and 18 miles from Birmingham.

(EPC:E).

OFFERS AROUND ÂŁ1,500,000 VIEWING: Please contact the Bridgnorth Office.

22-23 Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4QN Telephone: (01746) 766499

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

www.berrimaneaton.co.uk 07

A living kitchen

that is the heart of the home For many families, especially those with young children, a living kitchen really is the heart of the home.

Working mum Claire loves her contemporary Mereway kitchen that blends in with a living and dining area, a perfect space for the family.

We used the colour blue as a theme to coordinate and define the different areas. The gorgeous acrylic glass panel in the kitchen, which is very aptly named, Swimming Pool, is matched with the blue sofa and walls.

The Grey Bardolino kitchen with matching worktops is coordinated with the flooring in the living area, providing a seamless connection.

The lighting is well planned with under and over cabinet feature lighting to enhance the main lighting in each room.

Efficient extraction is important for a living kitchen and the stylish Caple extractor with black and glass hood ensures the room is free of fumes and smells.

“We all love our new kitchen and living space,” says Claire, “It has plenty of storage so is easy to keep tidy and we can all interact as a family around mealtimes and leisure times with ease.”

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

R

ROMAN BAT H R O O M S • K I T C H E N S • T I L ES

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To arrange a personal consultation please visit www.romanbathrooms.co.uk

110 - 111 High Street, Blackheath B65 0EG Telephone 0121 561 4374 • email info@romanbathrooms.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Stourbridge

RFC Since the last edition of Town and Village Life activity at Stourton Park has off the field revolved around a packed Ladies’ Lunch on September 26th; an ex-players lunch on October 21st and a well - attended Business Lunch on October 11th.

The speaker at the business lunch was Graeme Chaplin, the regional agent for The Bank of England. This was the inaugural of quarterly lunches to attract local corporate enterprises with high profile speakers and will continue in the New Year.

The Family Bonfire and Firework display on November 3rd coincided with the publication of this issue, NADFAS hold their quarterly meeting on November 6th, a ladies Lunch on November 21st and numerous Christmas parties fill the calendar up to the end of December, with the traditional

Andy Gomarsall MBE

Christmas Fayre on December 3rd and the Turkey Supper on December 21st. Bookings are rapidly being taken up for the Christmas Corporate Lunch on December 1st where the speaker is ex-England scrum half Andy Gomarsall MBE. Andy has 35 England caps and partnered Jonny Wilkinson in both the 2003 and 2007 World Cups. He was an ITV pundit for the last two Rugby World Cups and is an ambassador for The Wooden Spoon Society and currently runs the family business decommissioning and recycling redundant BT and technology equipment.

The new All Weather Pitch has eagerly been awaited and the first full game will be on November 11th against Sale RFC. All of the club’s sponsors have been invited to thank them for their continued support and to see for themselves how stunning it all looks, as well as being able to enjoy watching the game from the club house and the stand. Up until the end of October all home games have been played on our grass pitches with no shelter from the elements and no seating. The official joint-launch with the RFU of the new pitch will be on December 2nd when the First XV play Hinckley.

Our Under 14’s will also be playing Hinckley to add to the festival atmosphere.

Many of the RFU hierarchy will be present and the

official opening will be conducted by ex -England and Leicester Tigers hooker Peter Wheeler, continuing a long standing association he has with the club. Other invitees will include heads of local colleges and schools, representatives of local rugby clubs, Sport England, SIS Pitches and local Council and Parliamentary leaders, as well as senior management from North Midlands RFU, Worcester and Hereford RFU and Staffordshire RFU. It will be a very busy day.

On the field Stourbridge Lions have won two of their opening seven games in Midlands One West and lie in 10th place with 10 points. The First XV have had a great start in National Two North with bonus points in all of their eight games and lie unbeaten at the top of the table with a maximum 40 points, seven ahead of second placed Tynedale.

Meanwhile all our function rooms are available for weddings or parties. Please contact our Hospitality Manager Donna Tromans on 01384 395000.

Robin Edwards

Chairman, Stourbridge Rugby Club

T: 01384 395000 E: rugby@stourbridgerugby.com www.stourbridgerugby.com 10

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

34 Enville Road, Wall Heath Kingswinford, West Midlands DY6 0JT By appointment only

A family established business since 1992.

Large enough to cope – small enough to care.

Wet rooms and luxury bathrooms for the less abled are our speciality.

Call us for a full design and in house fitting service.

01384 400016 www.wallheathbathrooms.co.uk info@wallheathbathrooms.co.uk

FLAMING FIRES, FIREPLACES & STOVES

Here at Flaming Fires, we look forward to the long winter evenings.....

• Contemporary and traditional designs • The only approved CHESNEY’S stockist in the area • Quality fireplaces at realistic prices • Established over 20 years High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DP (ON THE VILLAGE GREEN)

01902 898221 www.flamingfires.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Find us on

and 11

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Quick Crossword Across 7 Light wind (6) 8 Add up (6) 9 Not pretty (4) 10 Take away (8) 11 Tenth month (7) 13 Deprived (5) 15 Two times (5) 17 Remaining (7) 20 Booklet (8) 21 Assists (4) 22 Floats (6) 23 Unlocked (6)

Down 1 Horrendous (6) 2 Refute (4) 3 Childhood illness (7) 4 Investigate (5) 5 Barely (8) 6 Coerced (6) 12 Engaged (8) 14 Stopping place (7) 16 Gun or knife (6) 18 Bowed (6) 19 Nearby (5) 21 Pinnacle (4)

Sudoku

Easy

Hard

Puzzle answers on page 130

Word Search Find the words below in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a phrase.

Advent Angel Bells Bread Cards Carols Chimney Crib Dasher Elves Fairy Fir Frosty Gift Gold Happy 14

Holly Inn Jingle Lantern Lights List Morning Myrrh Party Sack Santa Sleigh Star Tinsel Toys Wreath town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

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advertisement feature

Make your Money

work as hard as possible for you

We live in interesting times. We’ve got Brexit, a Trump presidency, recent elections in both the UK and France and one coming up in Germany, plus we have an emboldened Russia. Additionally, the Pound has fluctuated, and the UK inflation is on an upward cycle. However, we have also seen some fairly resilient Stock Markets in the UK, US and elsewhere.

What it may mean for you Challenging times can be good, as well as bad, for financial planning.

Either way, it often introduces even more elements that have to be considered. But first, it’s worthwhile to take a step back and consider that, whilst Brexit will 16

have a generational effect; much of what is occurring may relate more to the short-term. Yet, financial planning should often address the longer-term picture. To put this into perspective, let’s think back just 10 years. In 2007, the iPhone had only just launched, Facebook was in its infancy, and Woolworths was on every high street! As for the financial marketplace, the term ‘sub-prime mortgage crisis’ was only just coming into common usage.

Financial check-up Much has changed over the ensuing 10 years. But while it’s important to think longer-term, the demands of daily life mean that, understandably, many of us

live largely in the ‘here and now’.

Juggling a busy family and social life, alongside work commitments, leaves little time to focus on finances. So that’s why it makes sense to seek professional advice, someone who will work with you to assess the bigger picture. For us, this means being mindful of meeting both the shorter-term needs along the way (such as property purchase, university costs, or special treats), and longer-term planning to ensure you can fully enjoy your later years.

As part of this process, we’d consider your requirements and financial position, the mood of the financial markets, product choices, various initiatives introduced, and tax benefits on offer.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

It pays to take advice In fact, recent research has shown that those who took financial advice (between 2001 and 2007) were, on average, around £41,000 better off by the 2012-2014 period, than those who didn’t.

(Source: International Longevity Centre & Royal London, July 2017 survey)

Please do get in touch if you would like to discuss your financial needs.

HM Revenue & Customs practice and the law relating to taxation are complex and subject to individual circumstances and changes which cannot be foreseen.

Numerous Developments It’s wise to take advice when you consider some of the key issues set out in this publication, along with the following:

John Webb

The Budget – at the time of writing the next Budget will be in autumn 2017, which will reflect the new timetable. As from 2018, budgets will now occur in the autumn, with simply a Spring Statement from spring 2018 onwards.

Inflation – for the first time in a long time, we need to be aware of the impact of inflation, as the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) now sits at 2.6%.

(Source: Office for National Statistics, July 2017, released August 2017) www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

John Webb is a Chartered Financial Planner and a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society, the highest accolade designated by that organisation.

The Personal Finance Society is the professional body for the Financial Advisory Profession in the United Kingdom, promoting the highest standards of technical knowledge, client service and ethical practice.

If you would like more information or need advice on your specific circumstances please feel free to contact the author John Webb of Midland Independent Financial Services Limited on 01543 468877 or john.webb@ midlandifa.co.uk Midland Independent Financial Services is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Midland Independent Financial Services Ltd, 153 Avon Road, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 1LF. Telephone 01543 468877.

www.midlandifa.co.uk Throughout the year Midland Independent hold investment seminars with industry experts.

If you would like to attend please email: info@midlandifa.co.uk 17

HAGLEY ART CLUB

28th Annual exhibition 2017 •

28th Exhibition ; Friday, 24th, 7pm – 9pm, Saturday, Sunday, 25th, and 26th November, 10am – 4pm.

•

At Hagley Community Centre, Worcester Rd., Hagley.

•

Official opening Friday, 7.30pm.

•

Over 200 original paintings, all new work and all for sale.

•

Also, crafts and cards, ideas for Christmas presents.

•

Tea room with refreshments available.

•

We are a voluntary-run club, which started 28 years ago and at present has over 75 members.

•

Club meets once a month for demos on second Friday at St. Saviours Church Hall, Hagley.

•

Also, painting circle meet weekly at Churchill Village Hall.

•

Interested? Ring membership secretary: Sue Merrill 01562 700078.

•

Visitors welcome at demo evenings; £3.

Last year’s winner “Uffmore Lane” by the very talented Graham Madders

Kinver Rotary Club Harrier Martin Williams, who completed the gruelling course in 36 mins 01 seconds, more than half a minute ahead of the next man.

First lady to take the tape in a time of 45.49mins was Helen Tromans,

The Kinver Rotary Club Sheepwalks Shocker and Sheepwalks Shuffle running events for 2017 produced record numbers of entries and three first-time winners.

A record 380 runners entered the 10k “Shocker” multi terrain run across the Enville Estate by kind permission of Mr & Mrs Peter Williams. It was won by Tipton 18

who lives in Kingswinford and runs for Dudley Kingswinford, and who has taken part in every Kinver Rotary Club 10k run since they began in 2007.

The 10k event was officially started by 15 year old Dylan Pugh, of Mount Pleasant, Kingswinford, who was runner up in last year’s 2k Sheepwalks Shuffle and went one better this year to take the prize ahead of almost 200 others and the honour of starting the “Shocker”.

As all running costs for the Shocker had been covered by main sponsors BodyKraft of Pensnett, with support sponsors, all proceeds will be going to Dudley charity Action Heart. Proceeds from the “Shuffle” will be donated to Kinver Fitness Collective.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

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Dreamland - comfort suppliers since 1976 Dreamland has been the home of luxury beds, bed frames and headboards for more than 40 years and over the decades has earned an enviable reputation in the trade.

The independent, family-run business prides itself on the choice and service it offers its customers, as owner Mike Brown explains: “We supply an extensive range of beds, mattresses and bedsteads from our Brierley Hill-based showroom, including wooden, upholstered and metal bed frames in everything from single to king and even super-king sizes.”

The friendly and knowledgeable team at Dreamland understand the importance of a good night’s sleep, that’s why they’re always keen to help their customers find the right bed for them.

“Enjoying a regular and consistent pattern of sleep is essential for good quality of life and since 1976 our aim has been to ensure that our customers find the bed that bests suits their needs at the most affordable price possible.”

A great emphasis is placed upon training at Dreamland and the entire team are able to offer impartial advice to every one of their customers.

Owner, Mike Brown

“Product training is really important so that we can deliver the best service possible.”

The company is the area’s leading stockist of Hypnos, Somnus and Relyon handmade beds.

“These luxurious British brands produce high quality beds that have been handmade by craftsmen to offer a superior night’s sleep.”

And they’re not the only industry leading brands available at Dreamland.

“We also supply ranges from Dunlopillo, Sealy and Slumberland which lead the way when it comes to pressure-relieving mattresses.”

Whatever their requirements, customers at Dreamland are sure to find the perfect bed for them, that’s why so many return to the company again and again.

“We’re lucky to have always had great support from our customers, with almost every one returning when they want to purchase a new bed.”

And Dreamland is proud to support local charity, Mary Stevens Hospice, which does great work in the local community.

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“Rather than charge a fee for the products we deliver, we instead ask customers to make a donation to Mary Stevens Hospice. We’re delighted to have raised £145,500 so far.”

The hospice was established in 1991 to offer patients with incurable or life-limiting illnesses the opportunity to enjoy their lives to the fullest, however long that life may be.

Donations are the only reason Mary Stevens Hospice is able to provide the level of care it does. Each day, the highlyskilled staff take time to listen, advise and create personalised programmes of care, which address the needs of all patients.

That’s why the Dreamland team are so keen to do what they can to aid the charity.

Whether you want to create your dream bedroom, treat yourself to a new mattress or maybe upgrade from a double to king-size bed, make sure that you visit Dreamland today.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Wake up beautifully Hypnos takes their responsibility seriously for helping you sleep well and wake up better. They have a true talent for creating comfortable, stylish beds to enhance your well-being. Discover a sustainable and tailor-made bed that’s just right for you and enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating night’s sleep. Dreamland has a vast selection of these supreme crafted beds. With all the staff at Dreamland trained to the highest level you’ll receive impartial advice to insure you have a superlative bed, along with Dreamlands Price Promise they won’t be beaten on price.

Dreamland bedding centre – the Midlands premier bed specialist

Dreamland 23 Mill St, Brierley Hill, DY5 2RG

01384 74166

www.dreamlandbedding.co.uk Open 7 Days a week – Customer car at rear – Free Delivery service*

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Dress up the home

for Christmas you wish to display flowers, make your vases seasonal by covering them too with gaily coloured paper or foil. Gift wrappings make very suitable materials for this purpose.

Christmas in the home usually means festive decorating.

Somehow it is difficult to celebrate this special time without the embellishments that now normally go with it. How you go about the decorating, and what it costs, depends very much on how you and your family see the exercise.

If you go the whole hog, decorate the place up to the nines and then burn the lot ritually on Twelfth Night, it will cost a veritable fortune every year. Much better therefore, to take the baubles down carefully and bring them out, year after year, adding to your collection as time, finances and inclination allow.

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of beating. Add these to a little ingenuity, a spot of invention, a vivid imagination, and you’ll have a home dressed to kill, and it’ll hardly cost more than a pound or two.

Decorate to a theme for best results, take a colour or shape and build your decorating theme round it. Fans for example can look stunning standing upright along the edge of a shelf, especially if they are linked by bows and ribbons, or bright tinsel garlands. Baskets can be another theme. Tiny wicker creations, filled with seasonally coloured flowers, fruit or sweets, hung in groups from corners, light fittings or in front of a window, can look quite spectacular.

There is a wealth of decorating materials in the shops just now costing from pence to pounds.

Decorations range from tiny springs of plastic holly for the Christmas cake, to enormous fake Christmas trees that look so real you could be forgiven for trying to plant them out for next year!

If you are short on ideas, have a look at what your local retailer is displaying this year. Generally these professionally invented displays look very expensive.

Look closer however and you’ll probably find they have been made from basically inexpensive materials put together with colour, flair and sticky-backed plastic.

In fact the simplest things probably make for the most spectacular displays. Natural greenery, decorated bare boughs, flowers and pot plants, fruit and nuts, suitably presented, take a lot

Decorate the fruit bowls. Cover some of the fruit with foil or coloured tissue. If you don’t have sufficient bowls, cover an old flower pot, bulb bowl or box, with wrapping and fill with fruit in the usual way. If

Candles have a seasonal quality about them, especially the brightly coloured red and green ones.

Make your own candle displays on a saucer with the candle and other decorations set in oasis.

Decorations can include sprigs of holly or pine, artificial or dried flowers and the odd ribbon, assembled round the base of the candle so both oasis and saucer are concealed. They can look professional and expensive, as well as attractive. In all your displays, don’t overlook the usefulness of pine cones, grasses, bare branches and even drift wood.

Do be careful about lighting candles though. Never light them if they are part of an inflammable set-piece decoration or display.

Choose your Christmas tree with care. Natural trees are lovely of course but unless you are very careful, even if the roots have not been disturbed, the needles will start to drop as soon as the warm air of the home touches them. Artificial trees last forever and retain their built-in good looks, year after festive year.

Part of dressing the house includes dressing the festive table. Be wise, unless it’s just you and your partner; go for paper tablecloth and napkins.

White looks lovely but there is a whole spectrum of colours to choose from, either plain or printed with festive motifs. Make a colourful centrepiece either with candles, fruit or a combination of both, and your table will set the scene for the very best Christmas dinner ever.

What’s more, there’ll be no linen to launder when it’s all over, and one less job to do should be good news all round.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

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BLAKE’S GLASS AND GLAZING

Double Glazing Repairs and the Best Home Protection Locks

If you’ve got a problem with your double glazing, then call in the experts at Blake’s Glass and Glazing.

Based in Wombourne and boasting an impressive 25 years of industry experience, owner John Blake has long been offering his customers a repair service that’s second to none.

Whether it’s a lock that needs fixing, a broken handle or hinge repairing, or even new panes installing, John can help.

“We take care of repairs to all double glazed windows and doors and offer a pane replacement service, which provides our customers with an easy way to upgrade their windows without opting for completely new installations.”

All of the company’s glazing is backed by a five year manufacturer’s guarantee and every job is completed to the

26

highest standards, despite Blake’s competitive prices.

Offering his customers complete peace-of-mind is really important to John, that’s why when it comes to fitting door locks, Blake’s only use the best.

“Unfortunately in today’s world, snapping a lock is all too easy and whilst some cylinders may appear the same on the surface it’s vital to install a product that offers the best protection for your home, that’s why we use the ERA 3 Star Fortress Cylinder.”

With 76% of burglaries occurring through a poorly secured door and 31% by forcing a lock, choosing the right cylinder for your door is essential.

Awarded a BS Kite mark and TS007 3 Star and Sold Secure accreditation it is also licenced

by Secured by Design.

“ERA is a trusted brand that combines 175 years of home security experience with cutting edge product innovation. Their 3 Star Fortress Cylinder offers the best protection against snapping, bumping, picking and drilling, helping you to guard your home against intruders,” adds John.

So, to enjoy complete peaceof-mind let Blake’s Glass and Glazing protect your home today.

Independently tested to meet the latest industry security standards, the high performance euro profile locking cylinder has six hardened high security pins for the ultimate Anti-Pick and Anti-Bump resistance and a Defence Zone protecting the cylinder from snapping.

Call John 01902 279790 or 07973 295357 blakesglassandglazing@gmail.com town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

As seen on...

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

DIY SOS

27

Safe and Sound

By Rob Taylor

An Englishman’s home is his castle. Both literally and figuratively it provides safe haven from woe, protection from enemies and shelter from storms.

In 1760 William Pitt the Elder made this famous declaration about our inalienable right: “The poorest man may in his cottage bid defiance to all the force of the Crown. It may be frail, its roof may shake, the wind may blow through it. The rain may enter. The storms may enter. But the king of England may not enter.”

Like our right to vote we define our lives by such principles and when they are violated by crime we are left reeling, often unable to fully enjoy our home after.

Burglary is, of course, nothing new. Pinching things belonging to others is as old as the Ten Commandments but increasingly criminals are finding new ways to refine the age-old menace, ways that are sadly on the rise.

The message from home security experts and the police is simple: don’t take home security for granted. No place is safe unless you make it so and we should know as Town & Village Life HQ was recently hit. So at the time of year when the clocks go

back, returning darker evenings and longer nights to make life easier for the opportunist burglar, we take a look at what can be done in the fightback.

Our approach was to bring in some of the most trusted trades-people to help sure up our property: we fitted CCTV with an alarm and installed outside security lights. We also replaced our standard door locks with antipick-drill-bump-snap locks from Blakes Glass & Glazing based in Wombourne. Every product and service we went for is at the cutting edge of home defence.

Vehicle crime has risen in the West Midlands by forty per cent in the last three years, often car keys are

snatched during home invasions.

Another new problem is a technique where locks are ‘snapped’ or ‘bumped’: a horrifically speedy and simple process wherein criminals defeat standard, multi-locking UPVC doors (of which there are millions in Britain) by breaching the cylindrical lock in order to gain access. The bare minimum for any concerned homeowner right now ought to be installing anti-snap, anti-bump and anti-drill AAA rated locks.

If you take home security for granted it will only be a matter of time before you are a victim. Our advertisers have you safely covered when it comes to your next move.

But in the meantime: ditch the ‘beware of the dog’ sign. Burglars know you’re less likely to use your alarm with animals around. Don’t advertise when you are going on holiday on Social Media or when you make a new, expensive purchase by leaving the empty box outside your property for collection.

Don’t leave any ladders or tools lying around, as these can easily be used to gain access. Make sure window locks are visible too; thieves hate breaking glass because of the noise and risk of injury. And make sure that the products you buy to keep your home secure are of a high standard to make life harder for criminals.

You’ve been warned.

28

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

29

Local Choirs Sings

to help Breast Cancer Charit y

Singing on stage at Birmingham’s prestigious Symphony Hall is something many people can only dream of, but for members of Got 2 Sing contemporary choir it was a reality!

Beth Dunn, founder and director of Got 2 Sing, was delighted with the success of the evening.

Consultant Breast Surgeon, Steven Thrush, representing the charity, was called to the stage and spoke about his work and how the Haven helps support both men and women with breast cancer.

Lexi Craigie chief fundraiser for the charity said “We are thrilled with the fantastic amount of money raised.

These funds are vital to enable the Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven to help those with breast cancer so we’re incredibly grateful to everyone for their support.”

“It was a superb concert on every level. We’ve been inundated with messages praising the choir for their professional, polished performance and we were delighted with the amount raised for the charity.

The 2000 plus audience were treated to a full programme of contemporary songs, opening with ‘You’re the Voice’ through to a spectacular performance of ‘One Voice’ before ending

They formed part of the 500 strong ‘Got 2 Sing’ group of choirs which packed the stage on Sunday 3rd September at that internationally renowned concert venue for their ‘One Voice’ concert, raising over £8,300 for the Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven charity.

30

As a non-auditioned choir it was simply incredible to hear everyone singing their hearts out on stage and what a fantastic sound they made. It was truly amazing!”

with a traditional flag-waving ‘Proms’ finale which included ‘Land of Hope and Glory.’

The choir comprised members from Wolverhampton and nine other Got 2 Sing choirs from across the Midlands, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Gloucestershire and Worcestershire. Tenor Russell Painter was compere for the evening and also joined the Youth Choir in their fantastic rendition of a Sound of Music Medley.

Wolverhampton Choir meets at Blakeley Heath School, Wombourne on Tuesday evenings 7.30 - 9.pm www.got2sing.co.uk

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

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RECIPE H omemade

Fishcakes

Serves 4 Ready in 1hr

A real treat for all the family. For a more luxurious version replace the smoked haddock with salmon and add a few chopped peeled prawns. To make little fish nuggets that the kids will love, shape about 4 balls from one quantity of fishcake and coat in the same way.

Fry for only 2-3 mins.

INGREDIENTS

• Oil for shallow frying

• 900g (2lbs) floury potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

• Salad and lime wedges to serve

• 450g (1lb) smoked haddock fillet

METHOD

• 6 tbsp canned sweetcorn kernels • 2 tbsp each fresh chopped parsley and chives • 2 tsp finely grated lemon rind • 2 tbsp seasoned flour • 1 large egg, beaten • 75g (3oz) fresh white breadcrumbs 32

1. Boil the potatoes in a large pan of lightly salted water until just tender.

Drain and mash. Transfer to a bowl, leave to cool.

2. Place the haddock in a frying pan, cover with water and simmer for 8-10 mins until just cooked. Remove with a fish slice and flake the fish discarding any skin and bones. Add to the

mash with the sweetcorn, parsley, chives and lemon rind. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and mix well.

3. Using floured hands divide and shape the mixture into 8 fishcakes. Coat each fishcake in seasoned flour, then dip in beaten egg and coat in the breadcrumbs.

Chill for at least 30 mins.

4. Shallow fry the fishcakes in hot oil for 3-4 mins on each side until golden.

Drain and serve with salad and lemon wedges.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

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Grand Theatre COMPETITION career which followed he has sold more than 3.5 million records in the UK, released three albums and had four UK number one singles. Gareth has been seen on ITV1’s Dancing on Ice and The Big Reunion 2014 for ITV. Gareth’s theatre career has seen him play the role of Marius in the 25th anniversary tour of Les Misérables for Sir Cameron Mackintosh, in Loserville at West Yorkshire Playhouse and the UK tours of Legally Blonde and Boogie Nights the Musical.

Fe-Fi-Fo-Fum, a giant of a panto comes to Wolverhampton from Saturday 9 December 2017 – Sunday 14 January 2018!

We’ve got a family ticket (4 tickets in total) to give away to the 7:15pm performance of Jack and The Beanstalk on Wednesday 3 January!

Gareth Gates rose to stardom in 2002 as runner-up in the UK’s first Pop Idol. In a phenomenal

Gareth Gates stars as Jack, with returning favourites Lisa Riley as Spirit of the Beans, Doreen Tipton as the Trot’s lazy next door neighbour, Ian Adams as Dame Trot and Adam C Booth as Simple Simon, joined by television star Graham Cole as the evil Fleshcreep.

Lisa Riley captured the hearts of Wolverhampton in last year’s pantomime, Aladdin. Lisa is a regular panellist on ITV’s Loose Women and is known for playing Mandy Dingle in the ITV1 soap Emmerdale. Lazy Black Country internet sensation Doreen Tipton won Best Panto Newcomer at the Great British Pantomime Awards for her role in Aladdin at the Grand Theatre last year. Adam C Booth who received great critical acclaim in last year’s production of Aladdin will play Jack’s brother Simple Simon. Adam is a regular on Keith Lemon’s Sketch Show.

Graham Cole is best-known as PC Tony Stamp in The Bill.

With over 60,000 theatregoers attending the annual Wolverhampton Grand pantomime every year, don’t miss out on tickets to this year’s gigantic show, full of laughter, music and special effects, for tickets book online at grandtheatre.co.uk, visit the Box Office in person or call 01902 42 92 12.

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and send it on a postcard with your name, address and telephone number to Town & Village Life Magazine or email info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk by Thursday 30th November 2017.

What TV reality show did Gareth Gates rise to stardom on in 2002?

A. Popstars The Rivals B. Pop Idol C. The X Factor D. The Voice 36

Competition Terms and Conditions Please send postal entries to Town & Village Life Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY or email info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk.

To be received no later than Thursday 30th November 2017. Winners to collect tickets from the box office on the evening of the performance.

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 | november/december 2017

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It’s beginning to look a lot like

Christmas

The most magically lit-up time of the year is approaching sooner than we anticipated and you cannot deny the excitement. Especially since Dar Lighting has delivered its amazing Christmas collection, that everyone at Lighting R Us loves.

A whole new meaning has been given to Christmas decorations.

Add some Christmas spirit into your home with this spectacular collection of festive goodies. Including large LED stars, Christmas trees and oversized baubles.

Forget your average wreaths and fairy lights, Santa has certainly come to town with Dar’s festive range of

decorative lighting. The holiday themed products add some modern, yet festive touches into your home. Whilst we all love our tacky and traditional decorations, that we use every single year; they’re a thing of the past now.

One of the best things about the range is that they suit all colour schemes for your home! We have the gorgeous golden browns for warmer schemes such as reds, yellows, beiges etc. and the sparkling silver tones for your cooler hues, such as greys, purples, blues etc and the most amazing feature of these charming lights though, is not only that they are modern and stylish, but a lot of them are battery operated. Finally, a way to display dazzling Christmas lights without the hassle of wires, after wires and even more wires. Moreover, the mains operated items are all LED! Most people don’t exactly look forward to their electricity bill when the holidays are over, but Dar’s stunning range

is a perfect solution to beat the high costs during the high season.

Our personal favourites from the collection are the LED stars in both small and large sizes. Teaming the two up together, can create a dazzling display in any window, mantlepiece, wall or even your tree!

Another favourite that we simply love is the giant LED bauble. This elegant product looks glamourous anywhere!

The factor that puts the Brandy all over the pudding for this Christmas collection, is that a lot of these festive items can be used as décor for any time of the year, not just Christmas. Especially the stars and hearts, as they give a shabby chic feel to any home.

If you like the look of Dar’s Christmas range then come visit our lighting showroom in Aldersley, Wolverhampton to see them in their full effect. You can also browse through the entire collection in a brochure, which you can also view on our website.

www.lightingrus.co.uk | sales@lightingrus.oc.uk | 01902 757825 Unit 1a, Walton Works Industrial Estate, Macrome Rd, Aldersley, Wolverhampton, WV6 9HD.

38

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

39

O Night Divine

Saturday December 9th Monday December 11th Guests

Saturday: Jo Welch Monday: Jacob Kholi Penn United Reformed Church (WV4 5QF)

7.30pm £7.50 Tickets: 01902 652992 01902 652992 Penn Singers Charity Fund supporting WINGS for these concerts PENN SINGERS is a Registered Charity 503894. Member of the National Association of Choirs

Christmas Tree Festival Holy Trinity Church, Wordsley Friday 1st December - Sunday 3rd December 2017 The church will be open: Friday 1pm - 6pm, Saturday 10pm - 6pm, Sunday 11.30am, - 2.30pm & 4.15pm - 6pm.

On Saturday we have a Christmas Fayre 10am - 1.00pm: Santa’s Grotto will be open from 10am - 1.00pm.

On Sunday afternoon at 3pm there will be a concert of organ music by our Musician in Residence Paul Carr.

Dudley South Ladies’

LUNCHEON CLUB

At the October lunch at The Lodge, Wellington Road, Dudley Chairman Pauline Handley was delighted to welcome a record number of members and one visitor, Margaret Adams.

Following an excellent 3-course meal members settled back to listen to the speaker Sue Langley recalling “Her Great Aussie Adventure”.

It all started with a chance meeting on a Viking Cruise when Sue formed a friendship with a couple from Australia who invited her to visit them on their cattle station at Albany, a three-quarter hour journey south of Perth. Apart from herding cattle she encountered Tiger snakes which her hosts 40

roasted and crushed and then scattered around the house (called peppering), which prevents snakes entering the premises. She then moved to the wine region of Adelaide to stay with relatives where she travelled to stunning Kangaroo Island with its white sandy beaches and seal colonies.

She finished her adventure in Freemantle, which turned out to offer one of the highlights of her trip. She visited their notorious prison which closed to inmates in 1991. This is now restored offering overnight accommodation and weddings if you can cope with temperatures exceeding 50 degrees. Sue was an enthralling speaker who encouraged everyone to be adventurous.

Meetings are held on the second Friday of each month, the next being on the 10th November at

Diana White, Speaker Sue Langley and Beryl Bury

The Lodge when the speaker will be local MP Mike Wood.

On 8th December St. Andrews’ Singers will entertain with a Christmas Concert, followed by Derek Coates on 12th January 2018 telling us about Walking in Wensleydale. Visitors are most welcome and can attend three times before deciding to join.

Why not ring the Secretary on 01902 372984 or email her on albertgriffithsme7@gmail.com for more information about this friendly club.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

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NSPCC is double winner at Annual Higgs & Sons Quiz A Midlands law firm held its annual charity quiz in October and raised just short of £4,000.

The Higgs & Sons Charity Quiz returned to Molineux and 40 teams from across the Midlands together raised £3,901 for the NSPCC, the law firm’s charity of the year.

It was a double success for the national children’s charity – the NSPCC team were also the winners on the night!

a fun day and the annual Higgs 6-a-side football tournament.

Amanda Synott of the NSPCC said: “Thank you so much to Higgs & Sons for making us their nominated charity, and for hosting such a fantastic and well-attended quiz - we hope everyone had a brilliant time.

“We receive around 90% of our funding from generous supporters like those taking part in the quiz - amazing people who believe in

our work and believe that every childhood is worth fighting for. Big or small, the gifts and donations we receive make a difference to the children and young people we help through our services.”

Each year Higgs & Sons’ Community programme supports a range of projects on behalf of its chosen charity of the year.

Last year’s total of £23,994.66 raised on behalf of the Stroke Association was an all-time high for the Midlands based law firm.

The annual quiz is a highlight in the Higgs calendar. Teams made up of Higgs’ clients, professional contacts, suppliers and colleagues from across the Midlands, gathered at the WV1 restaurant at Molineux stadium to test their general knowledge under the scrutiny of quizmaster and Practice Director John Smith.

Higgs & Sons’ Managing Partner Paul Hunt said: “Yet again we had a wonderful turn out from the Midlands’ business community and it was great to see some new teams battling it out at our annual quiz alongside those who have supported us right from the beginning.

“We appreciate the generous support of everyone who attended to help us raise funds for the important work of the NSPCC.” Other events held in support of the charity throughout the year have included dress down days, bake-offs, 42

l-r Paul Hunt, Amanda Synott NSPCC and Sarah Cornick, Higgs & Sons’ Events Co-ordinator

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Local company services all types of boiler

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Around 50 people die every year from carbon monoxide poisoning*

With local company Gas First servicing all makes of boiler for just £39, now really is a golden opportunity to get your boiler checked out for peace of mind.

Based in Kingswinford, Gas First utilises the very latest combustion testing equipment and provide gas safety certificates after each service. Gas First engineer Martin explains: “ The special offer really is an inclusive price, we do not charge for add ons and we do NOT attempt to sell additional services. Customers can be assured that they are dealing with a gas safe registered engineer, fully trained and insured to offer a comprehensive boiler service. Servicing normally takes one hour.”

Anything else? “We pride ourselves on punctuality; if we say 2 pm we really do mean it.” Martin added “... and if someone is not ready for their annual service yet, they can still book now and secure the offer price, even if it’s not due till next year”.

Services can be booked by telephone or you can book online at gasfirst.net *source fireservice.co.uk

So what happens if the service takes longer? Martin continues “a couple of weeks ago I spent over 2 hours sorting out a problem during a service. The customer was quite surprised when I said it was still just £39. People seem to think there is a catch, there isn’t. The offer is not FROM £39, it is £39. The offer is genuine and this is the amount you will pay.”

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

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M y G u i d e to C h r i s t m a s Day

by Henry the Staffy

with a little help from Dr Bart Nietrzeba, MScMedVet MRCVS

Dr Bart and Henry

Hello all. Henry the Staffy here! It’s really busy here at Blacks Vets so I’m giving my colleagues a break and writing this edition’s article for them. With Christmas just around the corner, I’ve decided to write about the big day from a canine perspective. No, you didn’t know dogs could type, did you? Read on for more doggy discoveries…

7am Christmas morning It’s awfully quiet upstairs and I’m wondering if my Dad was working late last night. He’s Dr Bart and he’s one of the super team of vets at Blacks. As Blacks offer 24-hour care, 365 days of the year, at their accredited veterinary hospital in Dudley, Dad and his veterinary friends can sometimes be out helping pets get better at all times of the night. I’d better wake him up as I could really do with visiting the garden. Here goes: ‘AROOOO… AROOOOO… AROOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!’

7.05am Ah, here he comes now. Thanks Dad! Oooh that’s better. Whilst I have a mooch around in the garden sniffing for reindeer, Dad gets the kettle on and starts making our breakfast feast. Mmmmmm I LOVE this time of year. So many delicious things to eat! If I hang around in the kitchen long enough maybe I’ll get some scraps? The only problem is that Dad is really careful about what he feeds me as he says that he sees lots of poorly pets over 48

Henry the Staffy

Christmas who have eaten food that is too rich for them, or worse, stuff that is poisonous. But, as he’s filling my bowl up with my usual food, he’s got his Santa hat on, so things are starting to feel festive.

10am The Christmas tunes are on, Dad’s wearing his gingerbread man jumper and the doorbell is ringing.

Visitors! I adore visitors! I greet them with my usual jumping and rush off to bring them a selection of my very best toys. If I’m lucky, maybe someone will play with me and my pully toy. Hey, I’m a Staffy and I’m brilliant at tug of war! Our visitors are laden down with parcels which can mean only one thing…

11am PREZZIES!!!!! It’s time for opening presents and I’m quite giddy with excitement! There are lots of gifts under the Christmas tree and some of them smell wonderful. I’m sure if I can… just… get… this… wrapping… off… HEEYYYYYYYYYY! Dad has quickly taken my parcel off me and told me ‘NO!’ He says that there’s chocolate in there and if I eat it I could become seriously ill. Apparently, chocolate can cause kidney failure in dogs and so can other tasty goodies like mince pies and Christmas pudding. Raisins, currants, chocolate and alcohol

are all big no-no’s for dogs so it’s best to keep them out of the way of temptation. The same goes for crinkly and delicious smelling gift wrap, bows and tape. Lots of fun to play with but not so much fun when it ends up in a pet’s tummy!

One year I tried to play with the lovely, shiny baubles that were hanging on the bottom branches of the tree, but when I picked one up, it shattered into lots of sharp pieces. Dad said I was very lucky I didn’t swallow any and made sure that we moved all the decorations up out of my way.

Apparently, December is the busiest month of the year for removing foreign bodies from pets’ tummies so please don’t let any of your fourlegged friends join their numbers.

Just in case, Dad always makes sure I have really good insurance cover so that if an accident should happen, we don’t have to worry about costs. Christmas is such a busy time of year that it’s really easy for mishaps to occur. At Blacks, we even have a brilliant, dedicated department who help our customers with their insurance claims. For owners, it’s one less thing to worry about and they can then focus on getting their pets well again.

2pm Oh, this is the best bit. Lunchtime!

The turkey smells divine and I think

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

I can also sniff the mouth-watering scent of roast beef. I think I’ll just hang around casually beneath the table to see if anyone drops anything. I’d absolutely love to get stuck into a juicy bone but as delicious as they may be, I know they can be really dangerous for dogs. Shards of bone can become dislodged and cause choking or damage to the oesophagus which sadly cannot be treated.

Horrible thought! Instead, Dad has bought me an extra strong chewy toy which I intend to have a good chomp on later by the fire.

I’ve also spied a packet of yummy treats in my Christmas stocking, formulated especially for dogs.

Well, everyone is allowed a little treat at this time of the year.

5pm Everyone is stuffed and snoozing in the living room. The fire is on and I’m feeling warm and content.

Aaaaahhh this is the life. Suddenly, Dad stretches and strolls into the kitchen to fetch my lead. My ears shoot up as I hear its familiar jingle.

It’s walkies time! Woohoo! There’s a nip in the air so Dad puts me in my nice snuggly pet jacket and we head out to the park. Routine is really important for me and helps me feel

safe and calm when the house is full of new people, smells and sounds.

Up ahead I can see my friend Buster who I love playing with and I go charging off into the distance. Dad is shouting me but I can see my buddy and nothing is going to stop me!

When dad finally catches up with me he isn’t very pleased. I’m not sure he felt like a sprint so soon after lunch.

Did you know that lots of pets get lost at this time of year when it gets darker earlier and family routines are different? Luckily, I have a microchip which means that if I did wander off, I could be quickly scanned and united with my Dad. The nice people at Blacks are offering their microchipping service for just £15 between October and December, so it’s a great time to go and get one if you haven’t already. It’s now a legal requirement for dogs to be microchipped and for our contact records to be kept up to date, so ask your human to log onto www.blacksvets.co.uk for more information. Blacks also like to microchip cats, rabbits and tortoises, so that everyone can stay that little bit safer.

6pm Back home and I’m warm and settled again on my spot in front of

the fire. Dad has recovered from his unscheduled burst of activity and I decide to go and flop onto his lap for a cuddle. Although my Dad is a vet, he still likes reminders that help him remember my regular treatments like vaccination boosters, flea and worming medication, which is why I’m a member of Protect My Pet Club.

This brilliant club helps cut down the cost of preventative treatments and also sends my Dad reminders when I need a top-up application so that no matter how busy he is, he always knows he’s on top of my care. Dad also likes to save money and membership starts at just £8.99 per month. As a member, you can actually save between 30-60% on standard prices, depending on your size and species.

Feet and paws up, we can finally relax and enjoy a lazy evening. It won’t be long until we are both snoring loudly…

Merry Christmas everyone!

from ONLY

P

PROTECT YOUR PET AND YOUR POCKET TEC RO T

B

CLU

£8.99* per month

Health care for

Dogs, Cats and Rabbits Full annual vaccination / boosters Comprehensive worming programme Flea control programme Added parasite control programme TWO nose to tail health assessments per year FREE nail clip during 6 monthly nurse & vet check One additional FREE veterinary consultation *Terms and conditions may apply.

Blacks Vets www.blacksvets.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Rated 5* by our clients on Vet Help Direct

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Visit

Jacuzzi

®

Worcestershire this Winter Jacuzzi® Worcestershire, based at Webbs Garden Centre in Wychbold, has been the perfect place for prospective hot tub buyers for over 8 years.

As a global brand, Jacuzzi® carefully selects the locations of its own stores, and it’s never been easier (or more enjoyable) to sample the delights of a hot tub than with Jacuzzi Worcestershire.

The team is made up of Jennifer, Emma and Natalie and together they are on hand to guide you through the premium range of hot tubs that Jacuzzi® has to offer, helping you to select the perfect model for you and your lifestyle. Whether you’re a large and busy family looking to get some quality time together, or a couple looking for the perfect way to relax after a long day at work, Jacuzzi® has the right tub for you.

As part of your research, Jacuzzi® Worcestershire offers the ‘try before you buy’ experience, meaning all you have to do is make an appointment, bring your swimsuit and enjoy a wet test under the privacy of a gazebo. Nothing compares to fully experiencing a Jacuzzi® hot

J-425™

tub to give you the confidence in your chosen model, or the chance to familiarise yourself with its fantastic features.

Many people believe that buying a hot tub is an expensive undertaking, but with a range of finance options available and an extra £1000 off* a select range of tubs, enjoying a hot tub in the comfort of your own home has never been so affordable.

Visit the team at Webbs Garden Centre and they will happily talk you through the different finance

options available. Whether you opt for 0% interest free credit over 3 years, want to buy now and pay later or prefer to spread the cost over 5 years with deposits from as little as £100, they’ll make sure you choose the right option for you.

As one of the UK’s leading hot tub suppliers, you’ll enjoy a 5* service, impeccable aftercare and benefit from the sound hot tub knowledge that the team at Jacuzzi® Worcestershire possess.

If you’re looking for advice on what chemicals to use, instructions on how to replace a filter or just need some help on day-to-day usage, the team are always happy to help.

With Jacuzzi® Worcestershire, your hot tub purchase will be a fun, stress-free and exciting experience. So what are you waiting for? Take advantage of this premium service by calling 01527 869 378 or better yet, drop by the showroom and have a look at the range of hot tubs on display.

And for a little online research, visit www.jacuzzi.co.uk/ jacuzziworcestershire

*Quote JW500 to receive £1000 off the pack price Inc. VAT on any J-300™, J-400™ or J-500™ hot tub.

Order to be placed by 30th November and delivered by 31st December 2017 to qualify.

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

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Prepare the garden for

winter Tips are provided

by Ann Winwood, Lealans Garden Centre, Wolverhampton

if you’re planning on planting it in the garden after Christmas.

It’s unbelievable how the time flies as we find ourselves at the end of another season.

While the weather is mild it’s time to get the garden ready for winter.

Make sure you’ve got fleece or fleece bags ready to put over tender plants such as Cordylines, Hebes, Tree Ferns and other semi-hardy plants once the frosts arrive.

It’s very important to remove dead foliage from around roses – only put on the compost heap if it’s not diseased. This year seems to have been particularly bad for blackspot on roses, due to humid damp weather conditions for much of the summer.

Continue planting pansies, wallflowers and winter bedding, the sooner it’s done now the better. If we do get a cold frosty spell winter pansy flowers will droop down but once they thaw out in the sun they pop back up giving colour even on a cold day. November is the ideal month for planting tulip bulbs.

As the end of November approaches, many people start to purchase the traditional Christmas house plants. One of the best Christmas plants is the Poinsettia.

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It gives instant colour in a room.

They like good light during the day and a warm room, never in a draught. Only water when the soil is dry and never stand in water for longer than 10 minutes.

For a cooler room the brightly coloured cyclamen are ideal. The most common cause of failure with this plant is overwatering.

Only water just as the foliage begins to wilt and make sure that any excess water is removed from saucers after 15 minutes.

We offer Planted Arrangements in bowls and baskets, which along with the colourful houseplants can be gift wrapped, making them an ideal present. For a living gift consider buying a shrub for the garden or a planted-up tub or hanging basket specifically designed for winter colour.

When choosing your Christmas tree, don’t forget to have a look inside the garden centre. Most like our own centre put on spectacular Christmas displays. There’s always a multitude of baubles, garlands, lights and lit villages and if you don’t want a real tree, there’s an excellent range of artificial ones which can be difficult to tell from the real thing. Have a look in the festive light department if you get a chance – there’s so much choice today from solar powered spotlights and strings of lights to battery powered sets and the huge range of electrical sets which will switch on at dusk and switch off a few hours later – you’ll never forget to switch them off again.

Once the bad weather arrives, don’t forget bags of rock salt, outdoor tap covers, snow shovels, sledges and window scrappers.

Remember the birds during cold weather: keep feeders topped up and offer fat balls and specialist feeds to encourage a wide range of birds into your garden. Put out fresh water regularly especially during freezing weather.

From the end of November, freshly cut Christmas trees will be available in centres. When you get your tree home, put it in a stand or pot that can be kept moist, as warm temperatures and dry air inside the home make the tree absorb water very rapidly.

Keep away from hot radiators, open fires and TV sets. This also applies to rooted trees, especially town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Wide selection of Gift Arrangements, ideal as a living present, Gift Wrapped FREE of charge.

Top quality Poinsettias, Azaleas, Kalanchoe, Solanums and our own superb Cyclamen all available now.

Real Christmas Trees and Holly Wreaths available from end of November – we’ll net and load them into your car for you.

Come and see our wonderful array of Christmas lights, Decorations, Artificial and Fibre Optic trees all on display now.

Tel: 01902 700209 OPEN DAILY

Lealans Garden Centre Bridgnorth Road Shipley Pattingham Wolverhampton WV6 7EZ

www.lealansgardencentre.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Inspiration for the perfect Christmas gift This fine 19th century house is the home of a truly 21st century shopping experience.

Established in Worcester Street for thirty years, Stourbridge Galleries has a fine reputation as a gift shop, gallery and picture framers.

Inside you will find an exciting mix of design-led gifts, jewellery, greetings cards, artwork and home accessories. Great design, quality and value for money are paramount when selecting the stylish and unusual collections for the store, giving a choice of products not readily available on the high street. This season sees the spotlight fall on Christmas, with a unique selection of charity card packs from Woodmansterne, Artbeat and Caroline Gardner and individual hand finished cards for those special people in your life from award-winning Five Dollar Shake, Belly Button Designs, Cinnamon Aitch, Hammond Gower and many others. There is also a collection of exquisitely crafted decorations; beautiful glass angels, hanging stars, hearts , snowflakes and baubles , all designed to give a stunning effect when reflecting the lights on your tree.

of the softest toys you have ever hugged, cuddled and adored.

The Galleries are full of wonderful gift ideas, gorgeous scarves and jewellery from One Button and Peace of Mind, contemporary pewter photo frames from Lancaster & Gibbings, original giftware designs from East of India, fused glass by Jo Downs, bronze wildlife studies from Frith Sculpture, luxury homewares based on the Cotswold countryside

by Sam Wilson and so much more.

New artwork is featured this season with work from artists Kathryn Callaghan, Rebecca Vincent, Catherine Hyde, Paul Evans, Michael Wood and many others. The Collector Editions of illustrations by Quentin Blake for the books of Roald Dahl are ever popular and, with new editions just arrived ,are destined to make great Christmas gifts. All pictures are carefully complemented by framing from Stourbridge Galleries’ own workshops. Bespoke picture framing is offered in an extensive choice of frames for any artwork including sports shirts, needlework and memorabilia.

Expect a warm welcome and something new and different to see each time you visit.

As the nights draw in and temperatures fall, candles will create that warm, homely ambience that we all love. Evoking long evenings spent by the fire, the St Eval Candle Company’s seasonal fragrances of Inspiritus, Orange & Cinnamon and Winter Berries are ideal. Its range of British made church candles also perfectly complement the Belltrees Forge collection of hand crafted candlesticks featured in the store.

EarthSquared has a stylish new range of bags, purses, gloves and jewellery pouches in brand new tweeds in a rainbow of colours.

Its bestselling Ava bag is perfect for everyday use with a satin lined interior having a zipped security pocket and mobile phone pouch.

A perfect gift at a great price.

A great selection of Jellycat soft toys are displayed all year round, now featuring Christmas bears, penguins and reindeer, with all the quirky cuteness from the creators 56

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Gift Shop • Gallery Picture Framers

Two floors of eye catching 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 Open Sundays in December 11am – 4pm

Stourbridge

Galleries

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

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Win a mixed Case of 6 award -winning wines

with Halfpenny Green Wine Estate Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, near Wombourne, South Staffs, produces a range of 14 awardwinning English wines from grapes grown onsite, including whites, reds, rosés, and a selection of traditional method sparkling wines.

The wines are served in the site’s own restaurant, and sold in the three-floor shop adjacent.

Additionally, a selection of the Wine Estate’s vintages can be found adorning the shelves in many local farm shops, garden centres and delis, as well as selected branches of Marks and Spencer and Waitrose throughout the Midlands.

To learn more about Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, head to www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk

COMPETITION To share in the festive celebrations this Christmas, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate is giving one lucky reader the chance to take home a mixed case of six of their award-winning wines.

For a chance to win, just answer the following question correctly:

How many award-winning wines does Halfpenny Green Wine Estate produce?

Email your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk or on a postcard to Town & Village Life magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY. 58

All entries to be received by Thursday 30th November 2017.

Terms and Conditions To enter readers have to be at least 18 years of age. Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and notified by telephone. No cash or alternative prize available.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Your Christmas Your Way

at Hagley Hall

Hagley Hall and Park are among the supreme achievements of eighteenthcentury English architecture and landscape gardening, home to Lord and Lady Cobham, it has been part of the Lyttelton family, and an integral part of the local community for 250 years.

Set in 250 acres of landscaped parkland with panoramic countryside

views, it is the perfect place to hold your Christmas celebrations.

Situated on the borders of Worcestershire and the West Midlands it is easily accessible.

Enjoy an exclusive Christmas event in the enchanting Georgian Palladian Mansion. We can host private company Christmas parties and lunches tailored to your specific requirements, or why not join us for one of our afternoon teas, house tours or the casino night.

wedding exactly as you wish. We don’t like to offer packages; we like to work with you to create the wedding day of your dreams with our experienced and caring wedding planners helping you to create your unique day down to the last detail.

“We had such a lovely time when we came for afternoon tea. It was a magical ambience – the services fantastic and the food the best that we have had on any afternoon tea.”

“We got married at Hagley Hall and loved every minute of our special day. We were made to feel incredibly special and that nothing was too much to ask for, from the start of the journey right through to the end.”

We are also your Perfect Wedding Venue, with magnificent state rooms and expansive parkland you are able to design your own

Contact us today to discuss your event and see how we can help to make your dreams reality!

For more information or to speak with our events team please contact us on Tel: 01562 887290 or Email: info@hagleyhall.com Hagley Hall, Hagley, Worcestershire DY9 9LG

Casino Night

Saturday 9th December 2017 7.00pm arrival, carriages at midnight

Reception drink, three-course meal, fun casino and live music from our in-house pianist. £65.00 per person

House Tours

Monday 11th December, Tuesday 12th December, Wednesday 13th December 10.00am, 11.30am and 2.00pm

45 minute house tour with a hot drink and mince pie or festive treat. £15.00 per person - £3.00 Guide Books

Christmas Afternoon Tea Monday 18th December, Tuesday 19th December, Wednesday 20th December 2.00pm, 2.30pm, 3.00pm and 3.30pm

Celebrate the Christmas season and relax with our Christmas afternoon tea. £26.00 afternoon tea only - £30.00 afternoon tea with a glass of Prosecco

For further information visit www.hagleyhall.com/whats-on/ 01562 887290 | www.hagleyhall.com | info@hagleyhall.com

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Celebrate Christmas with C ountry B as k ets

Country Baskets are simply thrilled that it’s finally Christmas, the happiest time of the year!

The festive celebration is a passion of ours, and since the opportunity only comes once a year, we believe in going the extra mile in helping you transform your home into a comfortable and welcoming, winter wonderland… You deserve nothing less! Our Stourbridge store is packed to the seams with every single product in our massive Christmas range, from brilliant baubles to wonderful wreaths, this year’s selection is

bigger, better and even more amazing in both quality and value.

glitzy and glittering decorations, shaped like a shining star.

How your home looks and the impression it leaves on family and friends is more important than ever at this time of year, what’s lovelier than walking into a friend’s house to be welcomed by the warmth of festive candles and fresh sent of cinnamon? With our scent-infused candles, cinnamon sticks and an abundance of seasonal pillar candles, we can make this a reality in your own home. You’ll also find plenty of tealight holders, ranging from rustic reindeer-themed ones adorned with ruby red berries and spiky holly leaves, to the spectacular,

Nothing spreads Christmas cheer quite like the family Christmas tree, we all love to see one magnificently decorated and brightly illuminated.

As well as show-stopping artificial Christmas trees, measuring up to 6 feet 8 inches, we’re overjoyed to introduce our huge choice of Christmas Tree Decorations at the Stourbridge store and online. You’ll find: glittering baubles featuring twinkling sequins, snowy wooden sledges painted bright colours, multi-coloured Christmas lights, adorable robins, hanging hearts and rustic, happy reindeer! The fantastic product list goes on and on … longer than Santa’s nice list in fact!

When it comes to embellishing your walls, doors and more, don’t hesitate to come to the Stourbridge store for some festive inspiration. Glamorous tinsel, gorgeous garlands, fantastic plush, enchanting light-up canvases and many more delights have all been expertly arranged, ensuring an in-store visit enjoyable and fun for all the family.

Make sure to come and visit while the winter wonderland lasts, but don’t forget to pick up your Christmas necessities! We have: wrapping fabrics, terrific table runners and cracking crackers galore at your nearest Country Baskets store!

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Discover the magic of

CHRISTMAS Artificial Flowers & Greenery Craft | Advent | Baubles Ribbon & Gift Wrap Garlands & Wreaths Light Up | Tree Decorations

Find us in Stourbridge!

Gibbs Road, Lye, Stourbridge, West Midlands, DY9 8SY Any questions? Call 01384 896 888 | www.countrybaskets.co.uk

20% OFF EVERYTHING

Treat Yourself

In-store Voucher

Expires: 31st December 2017 | Code: D151

Voucher is valid for in-store use only and must be presented at the time of purchase. Voucher cannot be exchanged for cash and cannot be used in part transactions. Single use. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer.

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Davenport House

A breathtaking wedding venue in the heart of rural Shropshire

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An imposing country estate, Davenport House is exclusively yours on your special day. Set amidst picturesque Shropshire countryside, this idyllic Georgian house was extensively refurbished in 2017. Make yourself at home, celebrating your wedding day surrounded by its history, warmth and elegance.

Great Hall. At the very heart of the home, this is the perfect place in which to say your vows. Alternatively, marry in another of the great rooms, or between the pillars on the front steps of Davenport House.

Entering this great house through the magnificent double doors, you might choose to say ‘I do’ in The

Luring your guests in to dine, The Drawing Room features original paneling painted in elegant ‘tea

The Great Hall leads through to the beautiful Saloon with its marquetry floor. It is here that you might enjoy welcome drinks and canapés along with breathtaking views over the lawns beyond. Outside, the terrace, lawns and lily pond provide a sublime setting in which to mingle with a glass of fizz on warmer days.

green’. And, as day turns to evening, The Great Hall becomes your dance floor, while guests might also choose to relax in The Saloon or The Drawing Room.

Four luxurious en-suite bedrooms are located in the main house, while four cottages in the grounds offer self-catering accommodation.

A further cottage is offered as your bridal preparation area.

From intimate to lavish, and from contemporary style to the more traditional, Davenport House is your country estate and we look forward to welcoming you.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

D A V E N P O R T

H O U S E

Š Andrew Gale

Your exquisite Georgian c o u n t r y e s tat e An imposing country estate, Davenport House is exclusively yours on your special day. Set amidst picturesque Shropshire countryside, this idyllic Georgian house was extensively refurbished in 2017.

Make yourself at home, celebrating your wedding day surrounded by its history, warmth and elegance.

d av e n p o r t h o u s e . c o . u k | 0174 6 8 6 6 3 3 3 d av e n p o r t h o u s e w e d d i n g s W o r f i e l d , S h r o p s h i r e , W V15 5 L E www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Enjoy the Festive Season at

Halfpenny Green Wi n e E s t a t e

Halfpenny Green Wine Estate has been producing award-winning wines in South Staffordshire for over 30 years.

The range of 14 wines - including white, red, rosĂŠ, and sparkling wines - are all made by

the Wine Estate’s expert wine making team, from grapes grown on the 30 acre site.

The wines are sold in the on-site shop, which is set across three floors, and features a range of local and British produce, including wines, gins, beers, ales, cheeses, chocolates, biscuits, jams, chutneys, preserves, and a whole range of Christmas gifts and bespoke hamper ideas.

For a different retail experience this Christmas, head down to Halfpenny Green Wine Estate.

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Medium bodied with a hint of sweetness and a long, lingering aftertaste

A sweet dessert wine, showing ripe apricot and honey flavours

Summer berry fruits on the nose, with a refreshing balance of light fruit and sweetness

Penny Red

engliSh RoSe Made in the traditional method, with elegant refined, nutty flavours and persistent length.

White SPaRkling Delicate fragrances, with light honey flavours, balanced with fresh acidity

late haRveSt

Made in the traditional, method. Rich and elegant, with an abundance of nutty, biscuit flavours.

Pinot chaRdonnay

Exciting dry blend combining zingy acidity with complex fruit character

tom hill meRcia www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Aromatic, refined, elegant flavours with long finish

Embraces the classic Burgundy styles with a twist of fresh strawberry & raspberry fruits

Pinot noiR

Penny Black Made in the traditional method. A light, fresh, fizz, just off-dry. Perfect for a special occasion.

RoSĂŠ SPaRkling

Just off dry, light crisp raisiny nose, smooth luscious citrus flavour with a long clean finish

long acRe

Dark forest fruits on the nose and oak flavours create a warm, lingering finish

Rondo

Made in the traditional method. Fruity, soft fizz, with a seductive smoky finish.

Red SPaRkling Medium bodied and rounded, luscious fruit leaping from the glass

Black countRy gold 65

Himley Hall - a local treasure following a wedding breakfast or following a late ceremony.

TREAT SOMEONE TO A TASTE OF INDULGENCE FOR CHRISTMAS Can you have too many cakes?

Maybe sometimes at Himley Hall on an Indulgent Afternoon Tea, but if too many cakes are served and guests can’t finish them they get a goodie box for them to finish their cakes at home!

Himley Hall is an 18th Century former stately home set amongst 180 acres of ‘Capability Brown’ landscaped parkland, situated between Stourbridge and Wolverhampton.

smaller Pink Room to 75 guests for the much larger Green Room.

RECEPTION ROOMS Wedding Breakfasts for 45-90 guests may be held in several of Himley Hall’s refurbished rooms; the Green Room with its dazzling chandelier, the Oak Room; a delightful wood panelled room

Once the family home to the Earls of Dudley and host to royalty and high society, today it offers a glamorous setting for civil wedding ceremonies and receptions, elegant afternoon teas, special occasion celebrations and parties, art and craft exhibitions as well as prestigious conference facilities and guided tours.

In 1934 the Duke and Duchess of Kent spent the first two weeks of their honeymoon at Himley.

Today, couples may marry where Royal newlyweds once took their honeymoon, and photograph their special day in the grounds where princes and earls once strolled.

WEDDING DAY CHOICES Himley Hall offers a range of options for weddings including full wedding packages of Ceremony, Wedding Breakfast and Evening Celebration with disco, Wedding Breakfast and Evening celebration or simply a ceremony only

and in the sumptuous Art-Deco style Swimming Pool Room in the North Wing. This wing includes the Cinema Bar , the Earl of Dudley’s former private cinema, these days an elegant 1930’s style lounge bar.

The Swimming Pool Room has a dance floor and lighting and sound system and can host evening functions for 80-140 guests,

An Indulgent Afternoon Tea at Himley Hall is one of the true traditions of our culinary heritage. Guests may enjoy the classic combination of Ribbon Sandwiches, Scones with Fruit Conserve and Cream, Sweet pastries and tea in the superb setting of a former stately home.

If you are struggling for a gift idea for someone who enjoys the finer things in life then treat them to a ‘taste of indulgence’ with a Himley Hall Afternoon Tea gift voucher.

Vouchers are per person and start at £19.95 for an Indulgent Afternoon Tea with options to add a glass of sparkling Prosecco or a G & T’.

Vouchers are available online at www.himleyhallandpark. co.uk or by calling Himley Hall on 01384 817817.

Afternoon Tea in Himley Hall must be pre-booked and is offered on individual weekday dates each month. Individual, small party or large group bookings are available up to a maximum of 100 persons.

The hall has 3 ceremony rooms, the Pink and the Green Rooms have views towards the Great Lake, the Oak Room overlooks the Hall’s courtyard. All rooms allow private access onto the Hall terrace for drinks and photographs. The rooms host between 45 guests in the

If you would like more details on Himley Hall as a civil wedding ceremony and reception venue or for an Indulgent Afternoon Tea please call 01384 817817 or visit www.himleyhallandpark.co.uk 66

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Wedding Himley Hall and Park

Civil

Ceremonies and Receptions

WEDDINGS OPEN DAY Sunday 21 January 2018, 11am - 4pm

Delightful reception rooms for your wedding celebration. 3 elegant rooms for civil wedding & partnership ceremonies, licensed for up to 75 guests.

Superb celebration menus from 3 course fully inclusive dinners (45-90 persons) to high quality buffet receptions (80-140 persons) To receive your complimentary wedding pack contact our Wedding Co-Ordinator

Himley Hall & Park Himley, Dudley, West Midlands DY3 4DF

Tel: 01384 817817 Email: himley.hall@dudley.gov.uk Web: www.himleyhallandpark.co.uk

treat yourself to

afternoon

TEA HimleyHall at

An afternoon of indulgence

VouGcift avai hers la ble

Enjoy one of the true traditions of our culinary heritage in a venue where royal newlyweds spent their honeymoon and princes and earls once strolled.

Afternoon Tea £19.95 per person Afternoon Tea with a glass of Prosecco £23.50 AfternoonTea with a Bombay Sapphire G &T £23.50 Call Himley Hall on 01384 817817 to enquire about current dates available or to make a booking

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Eating Out, Entertainment, Food and Drink

Promote your venue to over 35,000 readers with Town & Village Life Magazine To find out how your venue can be featured please call Gisella on 01902 744217.

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TOWN & VILLAGE

LIFE M AGA Z I N E

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

The Bilash, fine dining, award winning Michelin rated Indian restaurant with ample car parking (valet parking available from 6.30pm) or just a short walk from the railway station.

We’re a family owned restaurant, established for 35 years and are renowned for our modern and innovative Bangladeshi and Indian food. We constantly strive to provide a dining experience to satisfy the modern discerning diner served in our recently refurbished stylish and contemporary restaurant.

Celebrate with us this Christmas 2017 Two Course Choice Starter and Main Course which is served with a choice of Naan Bread or Saffron Pilau Rice

Lunchtimes only £14.95

Evenings only £24.95

Commencing from 1st December until 24th December

Christmas and New Year’s Eve Special Menu, reservations only

∙ A la Carte Set Menu ∙ Corporate and Business Lunches ∙ Pre Theatre Package ∙ Catering & Event Management Private Dining Room (upstairs) ∙ Take-away Service (by request)

Privilege Nights on Monday and Tuesday Available October, November and January (excludes December)

Two Course Choice Starter, Main and Choice of Sundries

Only £13.95

Open: Monday to Friday 12pm to 2pm and Monday to Saturday 5.30pm to 10pm Tel: 01902 427762 / 01902 311991 or Email: table@thebilash.co.uk

www.thebilash.co.uk 2 Cheapside, Wolverhampton, WV1 1TU (opposite The Civic Centre) www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Christmas is in the air at

Halfpenny Green Wi n e E s t a t e

If you’re more interested in indulging yourself over the holidays, then Halfpenny Green Wine Estate’s restaurant is the place to be.

Serving lunch from 12pm to 3:30pm daily, from 3rd December the kitchen will be serving a special Christmas menu, featuring a range of homemade classics. All dishes are prepared and cooked fresh upon ordering, served to your table by a team of dedicated waiting staff – the perfect way to take the stress out of the Christmas period!

Harvest is drawing to a close, the log burners are blazing and there’s a festive mood floating around at the South Staffordshire estate.

Throughout December a certain someone will be visiting Halfpenny Green Wine Estate for another year… That’s right, Santa is back!

This year his grotto and elves (and the big man himself, of course) can be found in WILD Zoological Park, located on-site at the end of the Craft Centre lane. Tickets to visit Santa are available from Scallywags Indoor Play, and even include entry to WILD Zoo itself!

Contact Scallywags on 01384 77004 for pricing and booking.

Fancy something a little cheekier over the festive period? Then perhaps The Wine Loft is for you!

Located in the Wine Estate’s shop, adjacent to the restaurant, the Loft is a treasure trove of lesser-known alcoholic wonders. Halfpenny Green’s range of 14 award-winning wines, all grown and made on-site, take centre stage, filling an entire wall with reds, whites, rosés and fizz! The opposite wall plays host to a range of over 70 artisan British gins, most of which can’t be found in the supermarket. There’s plenty 70

of choice, but the friendly and knowledgeable staff are always happy to give you a quick sample to help you make your mind up – pick your poison! If you consider yourself more of a connoisseur, why not book a full tasting experience?

With sessions available daily for both wine and gins, starting at just £19.95 per person, they’re the perfect gift for Christmas too!

For a truly unique experience, Halfpenny Green’s A La Carte Evenings will be taking place on 17th November and 15th December. Each night features a unique three course menu, all prepared fresh to order by the chef and his team, served to your table by waiting staff – a great way to indulge this winter.

Places are limited, and available by booking only, by calling the restaurant on 01384 221122.

If you’re looking for a gift to suit someone fussy, a bespoke hamper is the perfect solution!

Put together in the shop while you wait, you can choose from a range of cheese, chocolates, biscuits, jams, chutneys, wine, beer, gins, sweets and much more to create the perfect gift. Available in a range of sizes, Christmas hampers are the best choice to suit all budgets and tastes!

Halfpenny Green Wine Estate is the perfect destination this Christmas for all of your shopping, dining and entertainment needs. With over fifteen other bespoke and artisan businesses in the on-site craft centre, WILD Zoological Park, and a whole range of festive gift options available in the shop and food in the restaurant, why head anywhere else over the holidays?

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Christmas Menu Available Throughout December

Served daily from 3rd - 24th December. Bookings now being taken.

A family business, established in 1983, 30 acres of vines are managed by Martin and produce award-winning wines crafted by his son Clive. The acclaimed shop, restaurant, deli and tea room are run by Clive’s wife Lisa, and offer a great day out for visitors.

AWARD-WINNING ENGLISH WINES

LOCAL PRODUCE SHOP & DELI

RESTAURANT & TEA ROOMS

U P COM I NG E V E N TS

Bespoke Hamper Service Available

à la carte evening

Gift Voucher Available

A range of hampers available in the shop, with custom hampers made while you wait

17th Nov & 15th Dec

A range of vouchers available in the shop, including Tours, Gin & Wine Tastings, High Teas and much more

by booking only

Tom Lane, Bobbington, South Staffs, DY7 5EP visit www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk call 01384 22 11 22

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Fwitheourafamily s tandi nfriends g Feasting amongst family and friends is a traditional way to celebrate any event and Christmas is no exception, being a particularly family and friend orientated time of year.

The trouble is, few family homes are large enough to accommodate all members of a family together with children, children’s children, boy and girlfriends, fiancées, partners and close social friends. Few domestic kitchens can accommodate the amount of food and preparation necessary to cater for a large number of folk. Even more difficult is gathering them all together on Christmas Day. Each may have yet more family and friends with whom the great day must be spent.

The solutions is to arrange for them all to gather together at some well-chosen, mutually convenient venue so they may all celebrate Christmas together, in advance of the big day. It is the perfect way for everyone to meet up at least once a year to renew old friendships, knit even closer family ties, and enjoy the collective closeness of family and friends.

Lunchtime is probably best if there are to be very young children present, or very early on in the evening. Some licensed premises are only permitted to serve evening meals to children up to a stated time, that time being stipulated by the licensing authority.

Choosing the right venue is very important if everyone is to enjoy the event. Depending on the size of the party it may be worthwhile booking a functions suite. Smaller groups can of course be accommodated amongst other smaller groups.

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Some restaurants are happy to be taken over completely by the one party, as of course they are with the larger, commercial bookings.

If white or sparkling wines are chosen especially, this enables the caterer to chill the bottles sufficiently in advance of the meal.

One deciding factor when choosing the right catering establishment is the menu on offer. For a preChristmas party, a traditional Christmas meal is usually chosen.

This generally means turkey and the trimmings, Christmas pudding and mince pies. However, not everyone likes turkey, indeed some are unable to eat it, and vegetarians will naturally want an exciting alternative that doesn’t include meat. Children and the very elderly may also require special catering, so it’s worth discussing the menu in detail with the caterer to ensure everyone has what they want or need. Most caterers are understanding and willing to comply with reasonable requests. If the party is a very large one however, or booked into a full restaurant, the menu may have to be selected in advance, especially if there are many variations.

Always keep the caterer informed about such things as; whether one or more of the guests will be in a wheelchair; or if a baby’s high chair is required. The tables can then be set out and laid accordingly.

If wine is to accompany the meal, again it is as well to make some selection in advance.

When making the booking, you may find you are asked to pay a deposit. This is only reasonable.

Large parties especially take up a great many places that cannot be booked out to anyone else. The caterer has to provide sufficient staff for specific numbers and prepare sufficient food. If a big party failed to turn up, without that deposit, the session would show a loss quite a large one if the group was the only booking for that day.

Whatever else you do when organising that Christmas party for family and friends, do book early or you could find it very difficult to find a restaurant that can accommodate you all at the last minute.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant Established 1989

Air conditioned

Cuisine of Bengal

 FOOD HYGIENE RATING SCHEME 2011

Fully licensed Restaurant of the year West Midlands region 2016

Celebrate your Christmas Party in Style at the Perfect Venue to Dine!

5 course Festive Christmas Menu Available from 1st – 24th December

Christmas Day Menu now available...

Bookings now being taken for 6 course traditional or Bengali style Christmas Day Lunch, Christmas Office Parties and Christmas Family and Friends Get-togethers.

for groups of 10 people or more

Papadums with relish Choice starter Chicken Tikka Onion Bhajee Samosas Chicken Chat Choice main course Chicken Tikka Masala Chicken Tikka Jalfrezi Lamb Bhuna Prawn Sagwaller Balti Vegetable Balti Rice or Nan Pilau Rice Fried Rice Mushroom Pilau Rice Plain Nan Peshwari Nan Keema Nan Tea or Coffee

only £14.95 per person

Bookings Only

Rafique Miah welcomes you to the longest established Indian and Bangladeshi Restaurant in Wombourne Village, serving sumptuous Bangladeshi Cuisine for over 28 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.

Our popular Take-away Service is still the best in Wombourne offering 10% off our Menu price.

Tel:

01902 324148 01902 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 73

The Cowshed

Pa t t i n g h a m So then: happenstance has it that tonight is our first ‘opportunity’. And we are not disappointed. Located on Clive Road, just outside the centre of Pattingham’s village idyll; a working farm setting nestled along the kind of sinuous country lane that has made keen bikers flock to the area in their droves for decades every Wednesday evening in summer and occupying a site belonging to a former dairy, The Cowshed is the perfect answer to the issue of where to eat next. And I’m really in the moo-d to eat.

By Rob Taylor Today we are overwhelmed with eating out options. We are lucky enough to be accustomed to having our every whim and fancy attended to and then some. Often for many of us the biggest crimp in our day is choosing where to eat out that evening – or more specifically, whether to stick with local stalwarts or venture further afield.

These are undoubtedly First World issues, but issues all the same.

One of the joys of being Town and Village Life’s trusty restaurant critic is that I’m often required to travel to fill my stomach, 74

often to places previously never considered. However that isn’t the case tonight because The Cowshed in Pattingham is a restaurant that has been on the radar of my long-suffering girlfriend Nicola and I for some time.

Word-of-mouth recommendations always carry greatest significance in my book. I don’t read TripAdvisor reviews because I don’t trust strangers. To me it’s imperative that I’m able to, first and foremost, weigh up the person who is pronouncing upon the subject – after all, some people lovingly endorse fast food outlets, whereas I revile them – so when I hear from a number of “approved” people that The Cowshed is a must-visit destination, I sit up and take notice.

Admittedly it’s fair to say – and believe me on many occasions Nicola has – that I’m rather slow off the mark but in my defence, I always like to “try before I buy”.

Arriving to find ample parking in an intimate courtyard area, Nicola and I soak up the last vestiges of the unseasonably hot weather before peeking inside the deceptively spacious building. We immediately receive a warm welcome from owner Will Guy – and are shown to our table. The Cowshed is a thoroughly contemporary space strewn with clever touches that celebrate the history of the building – there is the obligatory bovine caricature art on the walls (a particular favourite of mine is a heifer homage to Vermeer’s ‘Girl with the Pearl Earring’), milk bucket lampshades above the bar and lots of genuinely rustic touches in the shape of original beams etc. In a world stuffed full of faux-corporate ‘rustic’, real rustic stands out a mile.

So too does the food… or so I’m told. Needless to say we excitedly place our order from an a la carte

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

cake, dolcelatte, red onion chutney and a red wine jus’ (£16.95).

menu full of imaginative, modern British dishes, produced with locally-sourced ingredients, freshly cooked to order by Head Chef Joe Whitehouse. During our wait Nicola and I enjoy a bit of locationbased repartee, much to the dismay of any diners – and there are many, despite us visiting early in the mid-week – within earshot.

The gist of which is as follows: Me: “This evening is moo-ving along rather nicely, don’t you think?”

Nicola: “Oh you’ve already milked that one for all it’s worth.”

Me: “I believe you are udderly mistaken, my dear, I’m only skimming the surface…”

I’m pleased to report that the art of proper presentation is alive and well here. Each of the two mains are expertly sculpted by kitchen artisans. It pains us both to interfere with their artistry, but eat them we must. My steak is well-cooked and dripping with taste and flavour; the four onion rings are Olympian; the chips chunky, pillow-soft and achingly good. Even garnish is worth eating here, as I shall now demonstrate with dessert.

My ‘Cowshed raspberry and marshmallow cheesecake with white chocolate, raspberry and Oreo ice cream’ (£6.50) is plated with much aplomb, including an artful flourish of Physalis. I devour it with gusto and then tear through the assorted sugary delights like a child at Cadbury’s World. Nicola enjoys a ‘Cowshed rich chocolate brownie with Ferrero Rocher ice cream’ (£6.50) and judging by the number of moans emanating from her direction during this course, ‘enjoys’ is an understatement.

It’s difficult, however, to understate how thoroughly satisfied we both are now, after being fattened by suckling on the restaurant’s proverbial teat all evening. Our visit has been a pleasure from beginning to end.

The Cowshed is a cut above the rest – a restaurant that is well worth visiting as often as possible.

The Cowshed Restaurant, Clive Farm, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7DU. For table bookings please call 01902 701888. www.thecowshedrestaurant.co.uk

Nicola: “That’s pretty sour; I think this has reached its expiration date.

Hush now, the waiter is coming.”

We are pleasantly surprised to each receive a complimentary Leek and Potato soup, which is rich in flavour and colourfully presented.

Next up: starters. I’m eating ‘Panseared tiger prawns with garlic and chilli butter and dipping ciabatta’ (£10.50) and Nicola is tucking into ‘Thai fishcakes with leaves and a sweet chilli dressing’ (£9.25).

Both dishes are piping hot and speedily dispatched by friendly, competent waiting staff. Straight away I’m dunking my warm ciabatta into the heady blend of garlic and chilli butter. Then I make a play for the prawns like a man possessed.

Each succulent crustacean is juicer than the last. “If only there were more!”, I ask, before being chastened by Nicola, who is keen to point out that I still have to come a prime cut of English ‘8 oz Fillet Steak with hand-cut chips, roasted vine tomatoes, pan fried mushrooms, crispy onion rings’ (£26.95), with an additional Stilton Top (£2.00).

She eagerly awaits a ‘Pan-seared chicken breast with breaded potato www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Pourquoi, pas de dinde à Noël ?

What, No Turkey at Christmas?

Although we are barely into autumn, Christmas starts to loom large in the minds of all restaurateurs as the logistics of this busy period must be planned well in advance, including the all-important menu for the festive season.

The French, like the English, celebrate Christmas with family meals, usually eaten on Christmas Eve rather than on Christmas day, and their meals usually start with soup followed by an entrée of fish then a roast meat then cheese and a dessert. Celebration meals in France often last four hours

or more, which is rather more than the norm here in England.

Here at the French Connection we tend to follow the Gascon tradition at Christmas and do not serve

turkey as we feel that most of our customers will have this at home.

This year’s menu will probably include game, and a selection of fish and vegetarian dishes with roasted vegetables in duck fat (olive oil with vegetarian dishes) and a full range of entrees and desserts to suit all tastes. Most of our dishes are gluten free and we can cater for many specific dietary requirements with very little notice as we prepare our dishes in house with our own chefs.

For those who might worry about the amount of duck fat we use in our Christmas cooking here, we are pleased to say that recent studies have shown that although Gascony has the highest consumption of animal fat (duck fat) in the civilised world, it also has the lowest incidence of heart disease and some of the longest lived people in Europe!

Outside of the Christmas period we offer regular theme nights to celebrate the cuisine of other areas of France and on occasion feature specific restaurants that we have found on our travels. So whether you like the sunshine tastes of Provence, the comfort food of Normandy and Brittany or the gourmet menus of Paris and the wine routes of the Rhone why not visit us for an evening of authentic French Cuisine?

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Christmas Season

Festive menus for both lunch and evening are available for family or business parties and Menus will include gluten free and vegetarian options.

ALL our menus are turkey free!!

Festive Fayre Available from Monday 4th December and bookings are being taken now.

Lunch Menu £16.95 for two courses £18.95 for three courses and Evening Menu £25.95 for three courses Fed up with Festive? Try our Fresh Fish and Superior Steaks. Items individually priced.

New Years Eve Tickets available @ £60.00 per person includes a three course menu and champagne at midnight

For booking forms and menus call: 01384 390940

www.frenchconnectionbistro.com info@frenchconnectionbistro.com 3 Coventry Street, Stourbridge, DY8 1EP

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

77

Indian Restaurant

of the Year another jewel in the crown

By John Nash Good restaurants are ones that cater for kids and grumpy old codgers with equal measures of tranquillity. They are unruffled by impossible service demands and youngsters more interested in exchanging social media gossip on their iPhones than the chef’s cuisine.

Of course, there’s the added essential of having excellent food on the menu and an ambience that’s inviting.

Good restaurants too, attract families, can keep up standards under pressure and win awards.

A visit to Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant – I’m now in danger of being a regular – is always a creative affair for me. It’s a place where I’m continuing to rediscover my passion for Indian food and with more than 70 recipes not even listed on the menu, I’m not due to run out of choices any time soon.

From simple masalas and dhansaks to more obscure dishes for foodie adventurers, the kitchen excels in bespoke creations.

And this customised approach to dining obviously enjoys a loyal clientele. I’d booked a Friday evening table at seven.

The front of house hospitality was predictably pleasant, as our table for two was prepared. It was early evening, every cover had been taken and the place was already buzzing with staff not only keeping diners served, but also juggling a steady stream of takeaway business.

Another jewel in this curry king’s crown

78

Quite why in recent years good Indian Subcontinent dishes appear to be served only in obscure hovels with questionable hygiene, I don’t know. But I do know that Rafique Miah’s family business on an ever-so-English picturesque village square has seamlessly fused

his cultural home food traditions with modern presentation.

The restaurant’s clean lines and a minimalist approach to décor is strikingly at odds with the traditional hallmark of the food on offer, but it works.

And it works on many different levels. Nearby was a table with a mum and her two boys. It doesn’t get much better than observing an 11-year-old mop up the last morsels of his balti with torn pieces of naan bread, oblivious to his mother’s attempt to engage him.

During our night four other diners used that same table. Two couples, mature in years and with a taste for expensive wine, discussed the merits of the menu before taking the plunge with dishes they referred to as “safe.”

In the distance was the obligatory restaurant bore, with a voice that could cut through granite, but he laughed a lot, albeit loudly, so I guess he too was enjoying the moment. Clearly this is a place that attracts a diverse customer base that’s unified in a celebration of fine Indian cuisine.

Rafique was quick to inform me he had finally lifted the coveted Express & Star Indian Restaurant of the Year award, deposing the muchacclaimed Penn Tandoori. It’s an award his curry house was worthy

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

of years ago, so it’s heartening to know justice has at last been served with another jewel in its crown.

The poppadum’s arrived speedily, were delightfully light and served with an impressive sweet onion salad, a generous selection of pickles, chutneys and a mint raita dip. Fresh – still hot – they made a lovely appetiser for what was to come.

For starters I ordered tandoori lamb chops (£2.95) and my colleague, Gill, chose lamb samosas (£2.95).

The chops were large and generously coated in the tandoori marinade. Too many times over the years I’ve had this dish at other restaurants and the lamb is chronically overcooked, but this dish, served with fried onions, salad garnish and a selection of dips, was just perfect with a proper crust and the meat slightly pink.

Gil’s samosas won praise, traditionally a modest dish travellers

Wombourne Tandoori owner Rafique

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

could enjoy on their journeys, and they were presented with the same attention to detail as the chef’s signature creations.

It’s one of the things I love about Wombourne Tandoori – everything is focussed on engaging the customer.

I really don’t mind waiting for good food, but the service we experienced was remarkable.

We certainly weren’t rushed, but considering the large number of diners and the steady flow of takeaway orders, the efficiency was exceptional.

For mains, Gill opted for satkora lamb (£7.65). Satkora is a famous

Bangladeshi fruit with a taste very similar to fresh lemons. The peel is extensively used in this dish, served with white boiled rice.

The lamb was tender, lean and the strong flavours of lemon worked well with the recommended rice.

I plumbed for a lamb tawa tikka (£6.85) with pilau rice and a sag aloo (spiced spinach and potatoes) side dish.

Medium hot, the meal was flavoursome, with hints of ginger and sweet chillies and the meat not overcooked.

The spinach was fresh… but who’d expect anything less in this curry king’s palace.

I’ll be heading back soon…

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Clive Farm, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7DU

For a meal to remember!

Special Offer

20% Off*

Your total bill When you presen t this advert

Evening A la Carte Menu

TVL

Lunch Menu 2 courses £14.99 | 3 courses £19.99 Sunday Lunch 2 courses £19.99 - 3 courses £24.99 *Offer valid Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings only with A la Carte menu for up to a max of 8 people until 30th November 2017 when you present this advert, no photocopies.

Christmas Bookings now been taken

Christmas Day 5 courses: £95.00

Boxing Day 4 courses: £37.50

Christmas Opening Times : Christmas Eve 12pm-5pm. Christmas Day 12pm-4pm.

Boxing Day 12pm-5pm. 27th Dec Closed. 28th Dec Closed. 29th Dec Open.

30th Dec Open. New Year’s Day 12pm-5pm. 2nd Jan Closed. 3rd Jan Closed.

Opening Times: Wednesday to Saturday Lunch 12pm - 2.30pm (last sitting) Wednesday to Saturday Evening 6.30pm - 9.30pm (last sitting) Sunday 12 - 5pm (last sitting)

For bookings please telephone: 01902 701888 Cowshed Pattingham

@TheCowshed1 thecowshedpattingham www.thecowshedrestaurant.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk info@thecowshedrestaurant.co.uk

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Travel in Style with

Signature Luxury Cars “If you’ve got a special occasion to attend, why not take the stress and strain out of travelling there - and make it even more memorable - by letting us drive you in style?”

Whether you’re going on holiday or leaving for a business trip, Signature Luxury Cars will get you to your destination on time.

Whatever you’ve got planned this year, make sure that you travel there in style, with Signature Luxury Cars’ professional chauffeur service.

“We’re a discreet, professional luxury chauffeur service that’s based in the West Midlands and we pride ourselves on the excellent service that we offer our clients,” explains owner, Andrew Hickman.

Covering all UK destinations, including airports and seaports, the company can take you anywhere you want to go.

And, corporate clients are always pleased to know that their personnel will receive only the best service.

“We offer relaxed, discreet and efficient travel for your business personnel.”

The company cover all UK sporting events too, so that you can enjoy door to door service, whatever the event.”

With over 25 years’ experience working as a professional driver, Andrew knows exactly how to provide the very best service for every one of his clients.

Directors and corporate VIPs, in the electricity industry as well as local government.”

In fact, Andrew spent the last 14 years of his career working as chauffer to Wolverhampton’s civic heads and in his role he has chauffeured the most senior civil servants, as well as visiting royalty from overseas.

“My career as a professional driver has taken me the length and breadth of the country, as well as continental Europe.”

With surprisingly competitive prices, it’s affordable for anyone to enjoy a little luxury with Signature.

“Our R-Class Mercedes is complete with air-conditioning, privacy glass, DVD entertainment systems and space for up to seven people.”

So why not contact Andrew today to enjoy the chauffeur driven experience, you’ll be pleasantly surprised that luxury travel doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

“Over the past two decades I’ve worked for Chairmen, Managing

S I G N AT U R E | L U X U R Y C A R S Luxury Chauffeurs for all Occasions

Airport Transfers • Weddings • Sporting Events • Concerts Anniversaries • Proms • Birthdays • And any other Special Occasion

Contact: Andrew Hickman: 07931 440225 / 01384 458326 email: signatureluxurycars@yahoo.com www.signatureluxurycars.co.uk

“From A to B without a worry” Locally based, covering all UK destinations no matter where you need to go, we can meet and exceed your expectations of what a chauffeured service should be.

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

The r Gelato Ba

N E P O W NO ce with experien ite or r u o y d n En agne gra a Champ de ice cream. homema g

in azing din A truly am ce on experien rstep. your doo

At Harleys, we are focused on providing that home smoked taste of yesteryear. BBQ isn’t about flash grilling, it’s about slow cooking over a low heat to give you that succulent taste.

What lies behind the Victorian wall at Harleys Smokehouse? A veritable oasis of herbs, fruit trees with a slice of tranquillity and loads of mint for our Mojitos. You can sit sipping a large selection of Gins and then savour the flavours of the grazing boards, whilst waiting for your table in Harleys Smokehouse to dine on ribs or steak… the choice is amazing.

SmokehouSe and Cocktail bar

s arE HarlEy kiNg NOW ta gs fOr bOOkiN as CHristm d large small an kings o o b y rt pa for d re cate

Open: Monday to Thursday 12pm-9.30pm Friday & Saturday 9am-10pm Sunday 9am-9pm To avoid disappointment please book on 01384 878899 39a Dunsley Road, Kinver DY7 6LU www.harleyssmokehouse.co.uk harleyssmokehouse www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Lessons from the curry king for

best newcomer

Foyzur and head chef with their Best Newcomer of the Year award

by John Nash Show me a person who is always doing something to achieve their goals and dreams and I will show you an ambitious person.

These are the people with an inner clock where the time is set against the aims of ambitions.

Single-minded, it appears the big difference with ambitious people is that they will not sit around and wait or expect to achieve these goals: They get up and go for them.

And these people too, have mentors, structure – a plan, they believe in and are driven to make it happen.

Meet Foyzur Rahman, a 27-yearold, who runs one of the most successful Indian food takeaway businesses in the Black Country.

And after just two years at 84

the helm of Blue Ginger, in Moss Grove, Kingswinford, he’s lifted Best Newcomer of the Year in the Master Chef Promotion curry awards.

The Oscars of the curry business, Foyzur, already has his eyes set on more awards and expanding his customer base.

“Kingswinford needs a good curry restaurant of the standard we can achieve and already this place needs to expand. Customers are discerning and know what good food’s all about and our recent award is proof of it,” he adds.

Serving “restaurant quality food from a takeaway” involves serious investment. On what Foyzur describes as a quieter midweek night – the phones began punctuating our interview at 5.45 – there are two chefs, a head chef, his assistant and a tandoori chef, ready to get the food out there.

“It gets busy quickly and we have all kinds of customers. We get younger people, older people

and a lot of families order from us for a curry night in,” he says.

But it’s not surprising this contemporary Bangladeshi food haven has people queuing out of the door on a Saturday night.

Everything is bought in fresh.

“We’re at the market in Birmingham all of the time, nearly every ingredient here is fresh” adds Foyzur, “and the head chef grinds and mixes all our spices to our family recipes.”

Foyzur, son of Wombourne Tandoori curry king, Rafique, has clearly learned some essential lessons from the master.

“He keeps an eye on me all of the time. What we try to do here is deliver the same standards of food as in his restaurant.

“I started working front of house at Wombourne Tandoori in 2009, before running this place two years ago. I learned such a lot about quality food. Our head chef worked there too and I’m following my dad’s business model,” he adds.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Clearly ambitious, I get the feeling Foyzur could sell snow to Eskimos, he’s quick to point out that lust like Wombourne Tandoori, food tailored to taste is available.

“Same as the restaurant we have some recipes not on the menu and we can always adjust flavours, if people want their food mild, or hotter,” he adds.

I always feel it’s a little unfair reviewing takeaway Indian cuisine as the dynamics of the dishes can change during the delivery process. The best of rice can become overcooked and sticky as it steams in its own heat, naan breads can get soggy and sauces can begin to separate on the road.

curries in the UK, this humble balti with its extensive mix of spices was great comfort food sitting in front of the log burner stove.

With pilau rice (£2.20), the mix of seafood and meats worked really well because the sauce had not separated en route.

My mains treat included the chicken tikka garlic mosallah (£5.95) and a plain naan (£1.95).

All good too good for a midweek night; tasty and delivered hot.

I’ll call again, Foyzur.

All credit to Foyzur’s team, the food was delivered to my home without real collateral damage.

The popadoms (50p each) were still warm and crisp and there was a generous amount of onion salad and classic raita to accompany them.

For starters I plumbed for the sheek kebab (£2.65) and my friend, Gill, the kebab platter, an assortment of chicken and lamb tikkas (£2.75).

Severed with plenty of salad, the kebabs were tasty – not too fiery to obliterate the flavour of the lamb, and critically, not overcooked.

The kebab platter lamb and chicken was a small meal in its own right. Portions at Blue Ginger are generous.

For mains, Gill decided upon a Blue Ginger special balti (£5.95). It consisted of chicken, lamb and prawns. Still one of the most popular

Foyzur Rahman – hungry with ambition to be the best

Blue Ginger Contemporary Bangladeshi and Indian Takeaway

Open 7 days including Bank Holidays, 5.30pm – 11.00pm

Foyzur Rahman and his team are now serving restaurant quality food at their newly refurbished takeaway which boasts an open kitchen.

Newcomer of the Year 2017

Tel: 01384 402762

FREE Delivery within a 3 mile radius (min order £15) 60a Moss Grove, Kingswinford, West Midlands DY6 9HH

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Quid for Compton One week. One Pound. One goal: to fund care for families living with incurable illnesses.

to a family in the comfort of their own home. Your pound really will help to make a huge difference.”

This December Wolverhampton-based charity Compton Hospice will launch a brand new Christmas campaign which aims to raise much needed funds for the care of families living with the effects of incurable illnesses.

‘Quid for Compton’ will run from 11th to 17th December and encourages people to give just £1 to Compton Hospice.

“It doesn’t sound much, after all a pound won’t buy you much day to day,” explains fundraiser Vicki Wootton “however, donated as part of this new initiative, your pound could go towards the cost of providing a room on our Inpatient Unit for a patient to receive respite care, or help to fund a bereavement session for a grieving family member.

It could go towards supplying craft materials to deliver an art therapy session in our Woods Day Centre, or fund a nurse to provide care and support

Compton Hospice has been caring for families living with the effects of incurable illness for 35 years and to date has supported over 35,000 people. Services include medical, social and spiritual care and the Wolverhampton site also houses one of the largest Lymphoedema clinics in the country. Currently the charity is only part government funded and the annual cost of running the organisation stands at £7.9 million.

“We would not have been able to help our patients and their loved ones without the dedicated support of our local fundraisers and volunteers,” Vicki explains, “we are so grateful for all of your contributions that help us continue to provide this excellent care.

However, with demand for our services growing year on year, we need your help now more than ever.”

Support Compton Hospice to have a very Merry Quidmas by donating £1 between 11th and 17th December. Donations can be made in person at any of Compton’s 27 charity shops or online at justgiving.com/campaigns/ charity/comptonhospice/quidforcompton For more information on how you can support Quid for Compton please call Vicki Wootton on 0845 2255 497, email fundraising@compton-hospice.org.uk or visit www.compton-hospice.org.uk

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Aristocats Autumn/W inter

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2017

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

• Aldo Martins • Basler • Claudia C • Eugen Klein • Faber • Frank Walder • Georgedé • Joseph Ribkoff • Just White • Michaela Louisa • Olsen • Oui • Rabe

Open Monday to Friday 10am – 5pm, Saturday 10am - 4pm Ample parking behind the premises in New Street or on the road opposite the Esso petrol station.

Co-ordinated Day Wear • Coats • Cocktail & Evening Wear Lingerie • Accessories • Belts • Bags • Jewellery • Hosiery www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk 234 Coalway Road, Penn,Wolverhampton WV3 7NN

Tel: 01902 344003

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Time to Party

Find the perfect hair and make-up Look If your diary is packed-full of special dates this December, then finding a hair and make-up look that’ll take you from dowdy to dazzling in no time is a must.

Effortless Looks for Your Locks ‘Undone’ styles are still very much on-trend, which is good

news if you’re dashing to get to the office Christmas party.

Forget up-do’s simply show off long, shiny tresses by wearing your hair down. If you fancy adding some texture, spray a texturising lotion through the lengths, and then simply tong random sections from the mid-lengths to ends.

And, it’s a look that works perfectly for midi styles too.

For short hair though, keep your style relaxed and if you fancy making a real style statement this party season, why not treat yourself to some extensions?

Finding the right foundation First things first, a long-wearing foundation is essential for keeping your make-up looking flawless all night long. Don’t

be afraid to choose a heavier formulation, it’ll be perfect for the look you want to achieve.

Set with a sweep of powder and finish with a touch of blusher.

Sexy smoky eyes Smoky eyes are perfect for the party season and offer a really quick way to totally transform your look.

Use a primer to prepare your lids and then choose a dark shade of grey, navy or aubergine – and a lighter shade in a similar hue – to add definition. Use the lighter shade across the lid up to the crease then the darker shade on the outer corners.

Finish the look with a flick of eyeliner and extend the line at the outer corners to create a subtle flick.

Curl your lashes, then coat them with a couple of generous coats of black mascara – or even add false eyelashes if you prefer.

Perfectly groomed brows Full, defined brows are not only on-trend but are a must for framing your face and balancing your party make-up look.

Comb through your brows using an eyebrow brush then use a brow powder or pencil to add shape and definition.

Pucker Up Keep the focus on your eyes by opting for a subtle shade of lipstick. Nude hues accompany a smoky-eyed look perfectly.

Now that your hair and makeup is done, it’s time to slip into your little black dress and head straight to the party.

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We stock Oway – exquisite, luxurious and ethical Hair Care products

Italian Colour Products - Ammonia Free, Stockists of Organic Products and Label M. Free parking, loyalty cards and gift vouchers available.

To book an appointment please call 01384 484749 Open: Tuesday 9am - 4pm, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 9am - 6pm, Saturday 8.30am - 4.30pm www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk 131 Dudley Road, Brierley Hill, DY5 1HD www.capellihairdressing.co.uk

Wollaston Beauty Clinic

BRINGING ALL YOUR CHRISTMAS WANTS & NEEDS TOGETHER Would you like to shop for those special gifts and treat yourself at the same time to a manicure or pedicure?

Or, get that well-earned massage while picking up a gift voucher for your bestie? Then we suggest you pop along to Wollaston Beauty Clinic.

There is absolutely no reason why you can’t mix Christmas shopping with relaxation, sounds weird?

Not really, here at the salon we’ve got lots of great gift ideas to really put a dent in that Christmas list you’re carrying around at this time of year and while you’re at it wouldn’t it be rude not to give yourself a pamper too?

We’ll be showcasing all the big names in the beauty world from now through to the main event.

BareMinerals make up, Espa and Dermalogica skin care, St Tropez tanning and a great range of nail colours and accessories from Nailtiques and Orly. There really are gifts for everyone, even the man in your life.

This year’s ESPA skin care Christmas collection has a unique theme, “All is Calm All is Bright” and includes a limited edition “Ginger and Pink Pepper” fragrance and a new “Muscle

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Rescue Balm” inside their lovely presented shimmering white boxes. These boxed gifts start at only £12 and would make a perfect stocking filler or secret Santa for friends’ family and work colleagues alike.

To complement ESPA’S stunning gifts we are also offering a limited edition “All is Calm All is Bright” festive treatment for only £45. This treatment focuses on the mind and body, delivering beautiful skin and a renewed sense of inner calm, incorporating deep breathing, body realignment stretches, rose quartz crystals and hot stones.

This is a true winter warmer and if you’re an ESPA fan you won’t want to miss this treatment.

The team at Wollaston Beauty Clinic are all expertly trained and are very confident in helping you to select the correct product so ditch the giant shopping malls this year and opt for a calmer approach.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

All is calm, all is bright The ESPA Gift Collection

Wollaston Beauty Clinic where relaxing & pampering is essential

153 Bridgnorth Road Wollaston DY8 3NU 01384 393305

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

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P e r f e c t

Par ty Style

By Helen Taylor

The party season is officially here and whether you’ve got just one important gathering to attend or a diary full of special dates, you’ll find plenty of dazzling dresses to choose from on the high street this December.

Model wears - Black Sequin Dress– see in store or online for prices.

Wallis

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In fact, with so many gorgeous party looks on offer it’s hard to decide whether to make a statement with sequins, exude glamour with an embellished style or choose a little black dress for a classic chic look.

Whatever you decide, make sure that you enjoy looking fabulous at every one of those festive get-togethers this Christmas.

Black and Silver Sequin Dress – see in store or online for prices.

Wallis

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Embellished Metallic Flapper Dress £150 Miss Selfridge

Colbalt Blue Dress £39 Miss Selfridge

Black Dress £49 Star by Julian MacDonald at Debenhams

Black Lace Shift Dress £55 Wallis

Chandelier Earrings £12 Oasis

Clutch Bag £75 Dune

Loop Detail Sandals £65 Lipsy One Shoulder Sequin Dress £69 Miss Selfidge

Red Dress £55 River Island

Gold Dress £99 Miss Selfridge www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Mother of the Bride Hats Jewellery French & Italian Casual Designer Wear Shoes Evening Wear Fascinators Bags Accessories

Classy Rags Casual & Designer Wear

Classy Rags for celebrity inspired clothes or just the wardrobe essentials, catering for teens right through to the mature woman, sizes 8 to 22.

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10% OFF* Clothing and Accessories purchased when you present this advert during November and December 2017. *Not valid against sale items, no photocopies and not in conjunction with any other offer

0121 434 3727 627 Bearwood Road, Smethwick, Birmingham B66 4BL

www.classyragsbirmingham.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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At Tiger Lily you’re sure to find a wide choice of clothing and accessories for every Christmas event in sizes 8 to 20+.

Whether you have a Christmas ball to attend or a gift to buy, mother and daughter team, Stacey and Molly Williams will be on hand to personalise your shopping experience and help find you that perfect something.

We stock high end and designer, pre-loved items that are all carefully hand-picked to ensure their pristine quality including labels such as: Radley, Ted Baker, All Saints, Boden and Hobbs.

Plus, we now have gift vouchers available!

Of course our usual fabulous range of every day clothing and accessories will still be available.

So, why not treat yourself this Christmas and head to Tiger Lily today.

3 Summerhill, Kingswinford, DY6 9JG 01384 476161 / 07483 127154 contactus@tigerlilydressagency.co.uk

Open Monday - Saturday: 9am - 5pm Closed Sunday & Bank Holidays:

www.tigerlilydressagency.co.uk

Love your legs VARICOSE VEINS are a source of discomfort and can also significantly affect your selfesteem. Having these assessed and treated could be easier than you think.

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• High quality varicose and thread vein treatments • Minimally invasive local anaesthetic techniques • Walk-in, walk out procedures • Quick recovery • Insured and self paying patients

Please call 07555 581698 info@simonhobbsveins.co.uk www.simonhobbsveins.co.uk Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital Wood Road | Tettenhall | Wolverhampton | WV6 8LE

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NO PAIN – NO GAIN…

Pain is a vital message for you to stop and check out what is going on with your body.

Once you have done what your unconscious mind wanted you to do – take notice and be aware, the pain message isn’t necessary.

So why do we often end up with chronic pain? This is ‘old’ pain and is like a message that just hasn’t been switched off.

Rather like a nagging child, old pain just keeps on and on, repeatedly telling you that you have a problem.

New pain is very important and we need to be ready to hear that message and take notice quickly.

Unfortunately, if you suffer from chronic (continued and persistent) pain, new pain messages may be missed or ignored.

Imagine what it would be like if we could just switch that old pain message off? Well, I recently attended a very interesting course, rather obviously called, OldPain2Go! Now, for those who have been following my articles, you may have noticed that I have a very open mind and I am extremely curious, but even I was sceptical about this claim!

With my knowledge of the power of the mind, I know that it’s possible to achieve remarkable things with focused thought. I have ‘anesthetised’ my own arm and hand, and other peoples (with permission!!) making it possible to stick pins in

without pain or discomfort.

This was through hypnosis.

When I turned up at this course, I was interested to find that two of the six people attending were doctors.

The man responsible for this intriguing methodology is Steven Blake. He has taken his experience as a hypnotherapist, and his knowledge of the body and the unconscious mind, and created a very simple technique that gets the clients unconscious mind to just ‘switch off’ the old pain message. After our technical training and teaching of the methodology, Steven demonstrated the process on a lady who had suffered with fibromyalgia for many years. People with this incredibly debilitating disease will often find that traditional medicine is ineffective or has unpleasant side effects.

The lady was, understandably, rather sceptical, but she was also very clear that she had had enough of feeling like she did and wanted to be free of the pain.

Steven went through the process, finishing with a lovely relaxation.

On opening her eyes, the lady gave herself a bit of a wiggle about, then stood up and walked around. Her face was a picture!

She was free of the crippling pain she had come with. We were rather amazed and more than a little emotional. He explained that this was one of the more complex

conditions he works with, but arthritis responds very well to this process, as well as chronic back pain. I returned from my training, filled with excitement and ready to use this incredible new system.

Since I attended the OldPain2Go training, I have been teaching my clients just how powerful their unconscious mind is, and when they use this process, they can take control of their own body and create a new line of communication between their conscious and unconscious mind. I’ve used this method on emotional pain as well as physical pain. It gives clients control and it’s proving very popular and I love having it as another tool in my specially chosen toolbox.

If you’re curious about this new process, take a look at my website and some of the video testimonials.

“I aim to help you quickly gain skills and techniques that will empower you to clear your ‘Gremlins’ and move you towards a bright future. I use a mix of new science-based processes and well established systems, suited to your own unique situation.”

Sue Wilkinson

Some of the issues I work with: Anxiety • Stress • Phobias • Self Sabotage • Limiting Beliefs • Fear • Low Self Esteem • Weight Management I run ‘at home’ VIP courses for weight management and my Platinum one to one fast track course for people with limited free time.

I am available as a speaker for events and fundraisers and I hold regular courses and Wellness Yoga days throughout the year.

Find out more at mindbabble.co.uk

Contact me for a FREE consultation call & see how I can help you.

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Phone: 07980 541271 email: change@mindbabble.co.uk town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Helen has confident outlook f o l lo w i n g e y e l i d s u r g e r y says has transformed her appearance and improved her self-esteem.

After Guy Sterne was recommended to her by a lady she met socially, Helen decided to book in for an initial consultation with the experienced surgeon to find out more about what the procedure involved.

Helen Eburne’s over the moon with her blepharoplasty procedure.

A patient is focusing on the future with confidence after undergoing eyelid surgery with one of West Midlands Hospital’s top cosmetic surgeons.

Helen Eburne has heaped praise on consultant Guy Sterne for the blepharoplasty procedure which she

Mr Sterne delivers a range of cosmetic surgeries including breast augmentation, reduction and uplift surgery, facial cosmetic surgery, eyelid surgery and abdominoplasty (tummy tucks).

She was so impressed with Mr Sterne that she decided to go ahead with the surgery at the Halesowen-based private hospital.

Helen believes that she definitely made the right choice of hospital and surgeon for the surgery which she had set her sights on for so long.

Helen was thrilled with the outcome which she says has changed her whole outlook and her relationships with her family and friends.

The 43-year-old, of Solihull, said: “My motivation for surgery was to improve how I felt I looked.

“The knock on effects of that included improving my self confidence and in turn my personal relationships.

“I wanted to go ahead with eyelid surgery because I had spent time

and money on creams and nonsurgical treatments but I realised that no amount of creams were going to change my genetics.”

She added: “I would have no hesitation in recommending Guy Sterne. I had a great experience from the initial consultation with Guy, through to the day of the surgery when all the nurses were so friendly and helpful.

“Guy is an incredible surgeon and I really wish I had known about this procedure and had it done years ago.”

Are you considering Cosmetic Surgery?

Choose a surgeon and a private hospital you can trust Visit West Midlands Hospital Our highly experienced surgeons deliver a full range of cosmetic surgeries including: • • •

Breast Augmentation, Breast • Uplift, Breast Reduction • Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) • Eyelid Surgery

•

Facelifts Liposuction, Fat Transfer, Body Sculpturing Rhinoplasty (nose surgery) Male Breast Surgery

Whether you are interested in surgery or a non surgical procedure, our consultants can help you make an informed decision about what course of action will suit you best.

Call us on

01384 880 174

to book an appointment or visit www.westmidlandshospital.co.uk for more information about all our Cosmetic Surgeries.

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

West Midlands Hospital

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Renew your smile with

Custom made Dentures COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION

At Parkdale Clinic we offer quality patient-focused dental care in a modern and supportive environment.

Our satisfied patients have found a renewed confidence after undergoing treatment with us and it is our privilege to find a solution to many problems traditional dentistry has failed to remedy.

Call us today and discover what we could do for you:

01902 420654

Parkdale Dental & Implant Clinic | 82 Tettenhall Road | Wolverhampton WV1 4TF www.parkdaledentalandimplantclinic.co.uk | parkdale@portmanhealthcare.co.uk

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Looking after

your eyes At Taylor Biddle Opticians, looking after your eyes is our top priority.

Good vision is essential throughout life. During the first few years of life it is important to ensure that children have the opportunity to achieve their full visual, educational and social potential. Obstacles to vision such as squints and refractive errors (long and short-sightedness) during the early years of life can lead to amblyopia (“lazy” eye) which, unless detected and treated leads to irreversible visual impairment in the affected eye. Therefore it’s essential for all children to have an eye exam before they start school the cost of which is covered by the NHS.

is perfectly natural, albeit annoying and spectacles often become more necessary as we get older.

Unfortunately, not all problems with the eyes are correctable with spectacles, and a thorough examination of the eyes can detect problems which may need referral on to a specialist. Early detection is the key to preventing sight loss. Did you know that we can lose up to 40% of our vision before we may notice?

At Taylor Biddle Opticians, we offer extended eye examinations which include 3D OCT scans of the back of the eye, sometimes requiring dilation of the pupils. These scans are very detailed and are not to be confused with “free” photos offered by many high street multiples. The results of the scan are analysed and explained by Optometrist so that diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration can be detected much sooner than the normal eye exam getting you the treatment you need fast. Good vision is essential for enjoying good quality of life.

During school years and forward into working life, clear, comfortable vision allows us to perform at our best. There are now far more challenges to the visual system because of our dependence on computers/tablets/mobile phones, so much so that even a small correction combined with a good antireflection coating on the lenses can bring huge relief.

In our 40s, even if we have been lucky enough to not need to wear spectacles or contact lenses, we find that our eyes change and we start to need extra magnification close up. This change (presbyopia)

& many more Your Local Family Opticians Full eye examinations Ocular health checks The latest eye scanning OCT technology Visual Dyslexia Colorimetry assessments New range of Hugo Boss frames in stock

SPECIAL OFFER:

80% off second pair of lenses with every purchase of premium varifocal – plus £100 off selected Lindberg frames. (T&C’s apply, offer ends 31st December 2017)

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

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Tile Choice Official Wolves Partner

Wolves have struck up a new partnership with Midlands company, Tile Choice for the 2017/18 campaign.

perfect sense for us to increase our presence at the Molineux.”

Although the two companies have worked closely in recent seasons, this is Tile Choice’s first as an official Wolves partner and in return the club will promote their brand and offers across the season.

Tile Choice became the first external company to associate their brand with the club’s new LED video walls.

Lee Rudkin, Managing Director of Tile Choice, said: “We have several branches locally and, as many of our staff members and customers are committed Wolves fans, it made

The company has been in business since 1991 and has gone on to design 17 stores across the Midlands including in Bilston, Wolverhampton, Cannock, Walsall, West Bromwich, Birmingham, Kidderminster and as far as Shrewsbury, Northampton and Derby – ranging from 3,000 square feet to 19,000 square feet.

Tile Choice also boast a centralised warehouse and distribution centre, which is stocked with over £5 million

worth of tiles. With huge stock and selection of porcelain and ceramic tiles, along with natural stone, Tile Choice prides itself on selling high quality products, sourced from the world’s leading manufacturers.

Tile Choice maintain that customer service and product knowledge is key to their business. Whilst their staff continue to deliver a high standard and offer helpful information and advice in all aspects of the customers’ tiling project, keeping them ahead of the game in tiles. www.tilechoice.co.uk

L-R: Jessica Beasley, Leo Bonatini, Romain Saiss, Lee Rudkin

As Professional Party Planners and Balloon Creators, we specialise in:

Christenings • Birthdays Baby Showers • Kids Parties Family Gatherings • Naming Day Parties Holy Communion Parties Milestone Parties • Anniversary Parties We have passion for not only creating magical, events, but magical memories.

BALLOONS FOR ALL OCCASIONS - SMALL AND LARGE PARTIES Free delivery within a 5 mile radius

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AFFORDABLE FITNESS WITH SOUTH STAFFORDSHIRE COUNCIL’S LEISURE CENTRES

LEISURE SOUTH STAFFORDSHIRE’S

AWARD WINNING SWIM ACADEMY OFFERS HIGH QUALITY SWIMMING TUITION AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

• Lessons from 18 months to adults • Beginners and non-swimmers to advanced standards • Badge schemes to provide continual encouragement and rewards • Lessons run throughout the year to ensure continual progression • One to one lessons available on request • Good teacher/child ratios with assistants in the water to support weaker swimmers • FREE public swimming included if you pay by Direct Debit

CHESLYN HAY LEISURE CENTRE CODSALL LEISURE CENTRE PENKRIDGE LEISURE CENTRE WOMBOURNE LEISURE CENTRE www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

| 01922 417790 | 01902 844032 | 01785 714152 | 01902 898202

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NEW HIP REPLACEMENT

GETS PAUL FIGHTING FIT AGAIN the whole process has been quick which I’ve been really pleased about.”

Paul is now back doing karate sessions again and is relatively pain free which has made a huge difference to his life.

He added: “Having a hip replacement has been one of the best things I’ve ever done. If I knew I would feel this good afterwards I would have had it done years ago.

“I would also say to people that if they need a hip replacement, whatever their age, to have it done and stop struggling with pain.”

As for West Midlands Hospital, Paul is full of praise for the service and care he received from all staff at the Halesowen unit.

You can pay privately for a hip replacement at West Midlands Hospital.

A karate enthusiast is fighting fit again just months after a new hip replacement at West Midlands Hospital.

job and impact sports have been the cause of the problem.

Paul Brown is thrilled to be getting back up to speed with his martial arts after undergoing surgery with expert surgeon Professor Edward Davis.

Professor Davis is an expert in hip and knee replacements and uses state-of-the-art computer navigated surgery to assist his surgery.

The 51-year-old had battled hip pain for five years but it was only when he visited his GP and had an X-Ray that it revealed the full extent of the problem.

Paul’s sons Corran and Farren also love karate and football and he takes them to compete in karate tournaments and football matches locally and further-a-field.

He was referred to West Midlands Hospital to meet Professor Davis who suggested a total hip replacement.

Paul, who works for industrial gases firm BOC, believes the physical nature of his job and years of competitive sport had finally taken their toll.

Paul, of Halesowen, said: “My hip was getting worse but I had put up with it for so long I had learnt to live with it.

“I have a physical job and have always been a keen sportsman and enjoy cycling, football and karate. I think over the years my 108

“When I met with Professor Davis he explained the situation to me and suggested that a replacement was definitely the best option.”

He said: “I’ve never needed to go into hospital before because I’ve never broken any bones or needed surgery for anything.

“It was like being in a five star hotel and the staff and the consultant were absolutely amazing.

“I had my own private room and the staff couldn’t do enough for me. It was just a brilliant place to have my operation and I can’t thank the hospital enough.”

He was delighted to get a summer date for surgery when the football season had finished.

Paul, who is a West Bromwich Albion fan, said: “I was a bit reluctant about having surgery, not because I was worried about the operation, but because I knew that it would mean having time off work and I’d need several months afterwards to recover.

“I didn’t want to let my work colleagues down or my sons who I follow wherever sport takes them, but

Paul Brown is delighted to be back doing karate after his hip replacement.

To find out more about surgeries at West Midlands Hospital, please call 01384 880174 or visit www.westmidlandshospital.co.uk town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Refused Treatment for the surgery you need?

Fast and flexible appointment times

Individual pre assessment and priority discharge

Choice of Consultant

who will see you throughout your treatment

Single en suite room

and individual physiotherapy sessions where required

Treatment not funded on the NHS? Fed up of waiting?

At West Midlands Hospital we offer a variety of treatments which are classed as Procedures of Low Clinical Value by the NHS.

Book an appointment now and speed things up by paying privately for your treatment.

Some of our surgeries include: • Hips and Knees • Feet and Ankles • Spine and Neck Call us on 01384 880 174 to find out more about our different surgeries and treatments and book an appointment with us now. www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

• Hernia • Eye Surgery (Cataracts)

West Midlands Hospital 109

Local company

gives sickle cell charity a home

A healthcare organisation is celebrating the start of an initiative which has seen it reach out and support a local charity by offering use of its unoccupied office space.

Following a recent re-organisation of its Head Office, Wolverhamptonbased Health Cash Plan provider Paycare has welcomed The Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia Support Project through its doors, providing the first floor of its premises in George Street to the team, where the Charity now operates.

The Support Project team was originally based in St John’s Square in Wolverhampton, but with the lease on their building due to expire, the organisation approached Paycare to ask them to consider offering them some space, to enable them to relocate.

The Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia Support Project promotes public and professional awareness of 110

the inherited blood disorders affecting haemoglobin, the oxygen carrying substance in the red blood cells. Its team of nine operate as a vital health provider in Wolverhampton offering services which include counselling, support, screening, training and awareness raising activities.

Sutinder Herian, Project Coordinator at the Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Support Project said: “We’re extremely grateful to Kevin Rogers, CEO at Paycare and the rest of the team for their generosity, by providing us with the space to be able to continue our important work with the local affected communities. Most charities are facing considerable challenges, as public funding are making cuts to valuable and vital services for individuals, families and those with long-term health conditions.

Kevin Rogers, CEO of Paycare, explained: “We’re delighted to be able to support The Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia Support Project by providing space for them to operate from, so they can continue to carry out the vital work that they do to promote public and professional awareness of Sickle Cell and related blood disorders.

We’re passionate about supporting charities as part of our commitment to our local community.”

A well-respected and dedicated Health Cash Plan provider, Paycare has helped individuals and families protect themselves against everyday healthcare costs and bills for over 140 years.

“Kevin and the whole of the Paycare team have been extremely accommodating and have made the arduous task of moving offices much more manageable.” town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

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Over 150 years old

but a very keen eye on the future…

Financial Advice is provided by Concept Financial Services, who are able to offer pension advice (including finding lost pensions, pension switches, pension withdrawals or to demystify the new regulation that has made such a difference to those over 55 years old). They are also able to offer long term financial planning, protection advice (including accident and sickness, income protection and serious illness cover) or even help you plan for retirement.

The Society’s will writing and estate planning service is provided by national provider The Will Writing Company with their specialists working in Society branches, available over the telephone or to do home visits if requested.

Dudley Building Society, with branches in Dudley Town Centre, Gornal, Kingswinford, Brierley Hill and South Staffordshire’s Perton, has been around since 1858 but over the past few years has undergone significant modernisation.

Members at the heart As a traditional building society, customers with savings or mortgage accounts become members and it is they who own the Society, with no shareholder pay outs to consider or work towards.

Dudley Building Society recently hosted its annual member event that welcomed 350 attendees to the Dudley Canal Trust where everyone involved enjoyed a boat ride, a cream tea and a chance to chat with staff in a relaxed and informal environment.

A range of services

Partnerships in South Staffordshire The Society has sought suitable partnerships to offer its mortgage, will writing and financial advice - two of these relationships are with businesses based in Brewood and Perton.

The Society believes that expert knowledge should be on hand to support customers in making informed decisions with access to products from across the market to support better outcomes for everyone.

Perton branch The branch that is located opposite the entrance to Sainsbury’s in Perton is undergoing an extensive refurbishment to complete the Society’s modernisation of its branch network.

Look out for launch event details in local press and on social media.

The Society offers a wide range of savings accounts including bonds ranging from one to five years, instant access, notice accounts, ISAs, and children’s accounts.

The Society’s introducer only approach ensures that mortgage advice is provided by independent advisors that have access to the whole market which is further proof that a better outcome for the customer is a positive outcome for the Society irrelevant of commercial gain. Anyone wishing to review their current mortgage or apply for a new one can submit their interest by calling the Society or completing a mortgage enquiry form on the website (dudleybuildingsociety.co.uk/mortgages).

Enquiries will be forwarded to a trusted third party and mortgage advice will be undertaken by a regulated Financial Adviser and can be conducted over the telephone, at one of the Society’s five branches or in the comfort of your own home.

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

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** Will Writing and Estate Planning Service in partnership with Will Writing Company Limited (3616406) is authorised and regulated by the SRA in England and Wales as a licensed body (626921). * Financial Advice, in partnership with Concept Financial Services who are appointed representatives of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Mortgage Advice, in partnership with Homebuyers Helpline and all advice is provided by a regulated Financial Adviser.

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Five complete training with

Higgs & Sons

Pictured from left : Managing Partner Paul Hunt, Emma Hadley, Charanjeet Bhogal, Zahra Farooq, Carly Davies, and Georgia Stott.

Leading West Midlands law firm Higgs & Sons has welcomed five newly qualified lawyers to the firm.

Carly Davies, Emma Hadley, Zahra Farooq, Charanjeet Bhogal and Georgia Stott are the latest colleagues to benefit from the continued investment Higgs makes in the development of its lawyers.

Carly graduated from the University of Birmingham with a first class law degree in 2013, and before completing her LPC worked in an administrative role at a primary school. She has joined the Private Client Team.

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Emma and Zahra have both joined the Commercial Property team having joined Higgs as a Trainee Solicitors in 2015.

Charanjeet and Georgia as newly qualified solicitors and look forward to seeing how they develop as professionals.

After securing his training contact with Higgs back in 2013, Charanjeet spent some time working as a client analyst in order to gain further commercial experience. He completed his training contract this month and qualified into the Employment team.

“They have all secured positions in their departments of choice and I know they will be assets to the firm as a whole, as well as strong additions to the teams they join.

Georgia completed her Graduate Diploma in Law and her LPC at the University of Law in Birmingham, and has now joined the Dispute Resolution and Litigation team.

Managing Partner at Higgs, Paul Hunt, said: “We are pleased to welcome Carly, Emma, Zahra,

“As a firm we constantly strive to deliver a combination of the very best legal services and client care, and I am confident that they will each help us to achieve those goals.”

Higgs & Sons is headquartered at the Waterfront Business Park in Brierley Hill where it employs more than 230 people providing support to both business and private clients.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

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Newbridge

Prepar atory School certainty in what seems to be a constantly changing independent school market; this is reflected in the number of parents choosing Newbridge for their child’s education. I am committed to leading a positive, caring, well-disciplined and aspirational school; one which respects its 80 years heritage and continues to maintain its own unique identity as a small, caring prep school. As we look to take Newbridge Preparatory School forward; we continue to nurture its many qualities and help it to evolve and embrace the challenges of the future.

Our 80th Birthday I am delighted to be leading Newbridge Preparatory School in this special 80th anniversary year. Newbridge School catering for girls, aged 2-11 and boys aged 2 -7, has its own unique ethos. Our aim as a modern ‘prep’ school is to offer a superb standard of education for our pupils, balancing traditional values with cutting edge teaching and learning. As we are not linked to a senior school, we pride ourselves on being the only truly independent ‘Prep’ school in Wolverhampton.

11+ Preparation Our curriculum prepares the girls for 11+ entry; enabling parents to choose from a range of senior schools; helping the girls’ find the very ‘best’ senior school for each of them as individuals.The achievements of Newbridge towards this end, over the years have been tremendously successful. In the last five years alone, our Year six girls have achieved over 55 scholarships and awards to independent schools. www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Academic Results and so much more… not an either or I recently read an educational article suggesting that schools who feature in league tables are driven solely by academic success rather than the benefits of a broader education. However, I believe that the Newbridge today, as it has for the past 80 years, values both academic successes and the development of the whole child through a rich, varied, broad and balanced curriculum.

We deliver many opportunities which simultaneously provide both academic and personal development. So whilst achieving high academic results, we also have a tremendous amount to celebrate. At Newbridge, we believe in the importance of all aspects of education and measure success, in the many, varied achievements of all the children within our care.

Prepare for 2018 and visit us Please do not just take our word for it. Read our ‘Excellent’ 2016 inspection report (www. isi.net/schools/6725) or better still come and visit us – as every day is an open day.

Currently, our Early Years Department and Key Stage One Department are full. We have a very limited number of places available in Key Stage Two please ring to check availability.

Due to boys leaving us at 7 years old, we will have a small number of places available for Year Three in September 2018.

Early registration for our waiting lists is advised to avoid disappointment.

The Future I am very excited about our future. Newbridge offers stability and 117

Wolverhampton

Grammar School

Every student is individual, so why risk a standard approach to Sixth Form?

Students spend 11 years working towards GCSEs, but in just 20 months at A Level they are confronted with a host of life changing decisions – subject choice, work experience, Oxbridge or Russell Group, vocational degrees, international university courses, apprenticeships or perhaps a gap year? That first term in the Sixth Form is awash with university open days and the demands of personal statement deadlines and this is where the specialist careers, UCAS and university support team at Wolverhampton Grammar School can help.

With unprecedented changes in traditional jobs, emerging new industries and the creation of a more varied global work landscape, the opportunities given to students and the choices they make are more important than ever before.

Academic success is paramount, as it is in every school and Sixth Form college in the country, but students 118

also need to demonstrate a wider set of skills beyond the classroom.

Wolverhampton Grammar School works to ensure that Sixth Form students receive the individual care and attention that they need to leave as independent, self-motivated learners, with the skills valued by leading universities and employers and wider society alike. Right from day one expert mentoring and coaching ensures that students stand out from the crowd whatever their next step might be. This, together with an extensive range of A level subject choices, the largest range of extra and co-curricular activities, sports, clubs and societies and skill based provision of any independent

school in the area ensures Wolverhampton Grammar School students have the best start possible.

To hear more about life as a Sixth Former at Wolverhampton Grammar School join us for our Open Evening on Tuesday, 21st November 2017 from 6.30pm, visit the website www.wgs.org.uk or speak with our Admissions Registrar, Jane Morris or email jam@wgs-sch.net for further information.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Independent Day School for Boys and Girls Junior School ages 7-11 Senior School ages 11-16 Sixth Form ages 16-18

WOLVERHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL JUDGED “EXCELLENT” IN ALL AREAS BY THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS INSPECTORATE

Looking for the best independent education?

With outstanding GCSE and A Level results, there is only one choice.

Year 3 Open Day

Saturday 11th November, 10am-1.30pm

Sixth Form Open Evening Tuesday 21st November, 6.30pm

Register now for the Year 7 Entrance Test on Saturday 13th January for September 2018 entry.

To arrange a guided tour or to learn more about registering your child for September 2018, please contact Mrs Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar tel 01902 422939 or email jam@wgs-sch.net “This is a remarkable school. The atmosphere we encountered as we walked round with a succession of delightful guides was smilingly friendly. There is a real feeling of happiness.” The Good Schools Guide

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

01902 421326 www.wgs.org.uk Wolverhampton Grammar School Compton Road Wolverhampton WV3 9RB

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

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Enville Golf Club Stourbridge Enville Golf club hosted a Ladies’ Evening on Friday 13th October. Over 100 ladies attended the event. The evening started with canapes and a prosecco welcome reception.

During the evening a fashion show was organised by Phase 8 and a beauty demonstration by Lancôme. Local singer/ songwriter Esther Turner provided the evening entertainment.

All proceeds from the event went to the local Wings Charity based in Wombourne and £700.00 was raised.

Sponsored by

1. Lynne Price (lady Captain), Isobel Rees (Lady Vice-Captain).

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A fresh approach to Dentistry

2. Ester Turner (Singer).

3. Michelle Beaman, Jill Jones, Vicky Jones, Nicola Smith, Alison Brookes.

4. Ann Whitehouse, Margaret Guest, Mary Grosvenor.

5. Pat Lawton, Patricia Beaman, Caroline Beaman, Victoria Adams, Janet Adams.

6. Janice Thomas, Sheila Freeman, Rita Tonks, Pat Spooner.

7. Mandy Harborne, Charlotte Peters, Aimee Moreton.

8. Sue Dimmock (Past Lady Captain), Heather Mulley (Manager).

9. Jane Robinson, Tracy Simmonds.

10. Rita Tonks (Charity Founder).

11. Brenda Pearson, Helen Pearson.

12. Sue Winyard, Chris Evans.

13. Elsie Wright, Ann Dewfield, 14. June Baker, Jill Thomas, Pam Barnsley.

15. Pat Williams, Selina Williams, Becky Duffield, Emily Duffield, Gail Duffield, Fiona Hingley.

16. Mary Schirrmacher, June Dury, Elaine Owen, Gill Mathews, Sue Cushley.

17. Beverley Braddock, Irina Sinelnikova, Samantha Hayward.

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Social Scene

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American Beauty

By Rob Taylor

Hearing Joni Mitchell’s timeless refrain ‘Don’t it always seem to go that you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone’ immediately blast from the Shaker Pro audio system as he started the engine was heartlessly ironic.

Firstly because normally I’m the kind of person who fastidiously shuts down all ancillary systems in my car – radio, windscreen wipers, lights etc – before I get out and secondly, because this particular adage from the 1970 classic Big Yellow Taxi is playing at the precise moment when my Ford Mustang is being stolen. And loss speaks louder about love than anything else.

I do, of course, use the word ‘stolen’ with a great deal of artistic licence and hyperbole. In fact, the same goes for the word ‘my’ as well, because in law the car is no more mine than Joni’s taxi is, I was merely her (yes, in this case, I will anthropomorphise) partner for the week. In that short time I stopped short of naming her Eleanor, but did in every other way fall head over heels for her American charm.

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I remember when we first met as if it was only a week ago, because it was only a week ago. She rolled into town with much fanfare, straight away drawing slack-jawed admirers. Enrobed in the premium body colour of Ruby Red and riding on 19” black alloys stilettos, she looked stunning. This was always going to be an above-average affair – and immediately first-impressions told me I’d made the right choice.

For months I’d been filled with unease about my decision to order a topless model (from this point on I will abandon the metaphor) and enrage purists everywhere by depriving them of the iconic Mustang shape, which has since the film Bullitt kept the Mustang at the top of the muscle car tree. Just one top-down, laid-back cruise on a beautiful summer evening blew away my reservations, however.

This is because the Mustang – even this ‘modest’ 2.3 litre EcoBoost variant – is no longer an interloper on British roads. You can for the first time walk into a regular Ford dealer and come out with a fully warranted UK spec vehicle.

Thus the steering wheel is now on the correct side of the car; its suspension is fully independent, front and rear (which makes a huge difference); it has traction control and a Limited Slip Differential.

This is a thoroughly European

drivers’ car, made the American way: a blue-collar bargain from the Blue-Oval at just over £37,000.

With so much sophistication I fail to see the point of the petrol-guzzling v8, as in my neighbourhood I see more traffic jams than open highway so things such as Urban mpg (a respectable 27.2) matter more than they do in Hollywood movies. So too does interior design and execution: another area where there has been a quantum leap forward. Today’s Mustang has all the driver comfort and kit you’d expect – and a lot you wouldn’t expect to get as standard.

With around 300 bhp on tap and over 430 Nm of torque the turbocharged Ecoboost engine is in every case ample. It will compel the Mustang to do 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds and is surprisingly in keeping with the muscle car tradition in that it feels powerful, brutish and fast without being too “techy” and 21st Century.

Everything – especially in ‘Sport+’ mode – feels as gargantuan as its girth, this is driving made larger than life and I love it. Watching the car disappear into the distance goes to show me just how much.

This new Mustang is a serious slice of the States in a seriously good way – not just a great American car but a great car by any measure. And I want it back.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

We’ve got Christmas all wrapped up

at Hagley Golf Club

Hagley Golf Club is set in 170 acres overlooking picturesque views of the Clent Hills and has all the perfect ingredients for your party night!

Have fun with family and friends, party the night away in our Hawthorn Suite, enjoy home cooked food topped off with our resident DJ for £30 per person.

nights on 22nd November 22nd with ‘The Seven Deadly Gins’ which includes a tutored tasting of 7 Artisan gins accompanied with a Mediterranean platter at £25 per person.

Looking for the perfect Christmas present this year for the golfer in your life? We have a Christmas Shopping Night on Monday 4th December where you can see and purchase a range of golfing gifts and purchase individual vouchers, tickle the taste buds with some lovely wines and selected festive ports.

We are also the ideal venue for any family event throughout the year from Sunday Lunch, christenings, anniversaries and of course weddings too!

We do hope that you are able to join us for one of our special events or at Christmas.

For more information please call us for a brochure on Tel: 01562 883701 or Email: reception@hagleygcc.co.uk Hagley Golf Club, Wassell Grove Lane, Hagley, Worcestershire DY9 9JW

This year we are also offering you your own private table for a 5-course choice meal on Christmas Day, a family meal on Boxing Day and a sumptuous Gala buffet and disco on New Year’s Eve. Before Christmas comes around we have the first of our themed

We’ve got Christmas all wrapped up Christmas package prices from £30 per person Available on selected dates in December and we are open for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve. Ask us for a copy of our brochure.

Book your place now telephone. 01562 883701 email. reception@hagleygcc.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Welcome to enville Golf club Enville Golf Club are pleased to announce the forthcoming launch of their new Ladies Academy.

Our goal is to introduce ladies to the game of golf at affordable prices. The academy programme will deliver tuition and introduction into the rules of the game and etiquette. Membership will be fully supported throughout to enable any lady to enjoy the start of their golf career. We hope by the end of the programme that ladies will graduate to becoming members of Enville’s Ladies’ section but our main aim is to provide ladies with the basic skills and knowledge to enjoy their golf wherever they choose to play.

Membership of the academy will begin 4th March 2018 and will include: • 6 Group lessons throughout the year with our Professional Richard Copsey, giving ladies the opportunity to meet their fellow academy members.

• 10 structured individual lesson throughout the year (to be booked at convenient times to you) • Full use of our extensive practice facilities • Members bar benefit card and full use of the clubhouse facilities • Set events and fun competitions accompanied by mentors 124

from the ladies’ section out on the courses.

• A mentor throughout your academy membership (one year) who will help, advise and provide support with your golf development.

• Guidance on etiquette, rules and traditions of golf.

• Limited free use of the course at non peak times (Vouchers entitling you to 72 holes of golf) to be used when accompanied by a fellow member.

A great “get into golf” experience for the complete beginner or someone with a little golfing experience who does not yet feel ready to take up full membership of a club. Golf can be a great asset to any professional career and again this could offer the ideal opportunity to develop a new skill and sporting ability.

An ideal Christmas gift experience that could ignite a life-long passion.

• Further use of the course is permissible in the company of a member and is subject to the payment of a green fee at the members’ guest rate.

Membership of the Academy will be for one year with an option to renew for a further 12 months following discussions with the professional team. After 12 months, ladies who wish to apply for full membership can do so through the normal application procedure. The cost of one year’s membership of the academy will be £300.00 and is available to any ladies over the age of 18.

Lily May Humphreys, winner of the Girls’ British Amateur Championships 2017 held at Enville in 2017. Lily was made an Honorary Member of the club in recognition of her great achievement.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

Enville Golf Club meets all the traditions of a private members club and offers the opportunity to play two of the finest Heathland/ Woodland courses in the country which are presented by our green staff to the highest standard.

The work to develop our club has been recognised in recent years

by The R&A, The English Golf Union and The PGA, who have chosen Enville Golf Club to host The Open Regional Qualifiers, The English Seniors, The Reid Trophy and in 2017, The Girls’ British Open Amateur Championship.

Heather Mulley General Manager says “With two first class courses we ensure that one course is always available for our members regardless of competition, society or tournament commitments. Members are not required to book tee times for general play”.

Enville has a vibrant and growing ladies’ section. With the forthcoming launch of our new Ladies Academy we feel this will only continue and will provide an ideal opportunity to take up the game or develop a long standing

desire to improve, play regularly and join the Midlands premier club.

The Junior Section has had its most successful year ever and continues to grow providing a wealth of home grown real talent of which we are immensely proud and every encouragement is given to our juniors within the club environment.

Both our Senior and mixed section play regularly and hold friendly matches throughout the season against other local clubs.

The Highgate has a par of 72 and the Lodge has a par of 71. Both courses are a test for any golfer but above all provide an idyllic, beautiful environment in which to play golf.

Our all grass, private members’ practice facility is exceptional.

There is a six acre short game area with three full size chipping and pitching greens open all year round and maintained to golf course conditions. The main long game area covers twenty two acres and is over 360 yards long. The main grass tee is 220 yards wide, which ensures perfect practice conditions from real turf all year round.

Enville Golf Club is typical of all English heathland golf courses and has the virtue of offering year round golf because of the well-drained sandy subsoil.

We feel membership of our club offers excellent value for the discerning golfer.

Being a member at Enville will mean you will be the envy of all golfers.

For more details contact Heather Mulley on 01384 872074 or Email: manager@envillegolfclub.co.uk

www.envillegolfclub.co.uk Enville Golf Club Ltd, Highgate Common, Enville, Stourbridge, West Midlands DY7 5BN

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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South Staffordshire Golf Club

great for golf and much more…

Prized by its members and praised by visitors, South Staffordshire Golf Club has long been regarded as one of the finest courses in the West Midlands and is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year.

Founded in 1892, the club – that’s located just outside the picturesque village of Tettenhall, in Danescourt Road – is set in 160 acres and boasts a 6512 yard par 71 course.

demanding a mixture of skill and imagination to play them well.”

It’s not just skilled golfers who can Originally designed by Harry enjoy the club though, there’s also Vardon in 1908, who was one of the Peter Baker Golf Academy that offers lessons to those looking to the greatest players and most improve their swing in the indoor influential figures in the early swing clinic or at the 10 acre history of the sport, the course driving range and practice area. has been played and ‘tweaked’ by other golfing greats over the years, For the winter season, the including Harry Colt, James Braid club has introduced its special and most recently, Donald Steel.

Winter Warmers offer, which As Sue LeBeau, Club Manager, explains: “The course is maintained to the highest standards and offers a series of interesting and challenging holes, including no fewer than six par four holes of over 400 yards from the Medal Tees, contributing to a standard scratch of 72 and

enables golfers to book a tee time – between Monday and Friday, with a maximum of twelve players – for only £69.

And, the club’s 2018 Winter Membership Package offers seven day membership, between 1st February and 30th April, for just £200.

After a long day spent on the course there’s nothing better than heading indoors to enjoy a delicious meal in the club’s restaurant.

Now that Christmas is just around the around the corner, there’s been some tempting festive additions made to the menu.

“We’ll be serving Christmas Fayre from Monday 13th November until Friday 22nd December. A three course festive feast will cost just £20 per person at lunchtime or £22 per person in the evening.”

If you’re planning a special event or maybe looking for somewhere to hold your Christmas party, you’ll be pleased to know that the club is available to hire for all private functions, including weddings, small parties, Christenings and wakes.

Finding the perfect Christmas gift is never easy but thanks to the club you can delight both a novice and keen golfer with gift vouchers for lessons, clothing and equipment from the fully-stocked Pro Shop.

So, whether you’re keen to enjoy a great round of golf, treat yourself to a delicious meal or maybe find the perfect venue for that special occasion, you’re sure to discover just what you’re looking for at South Staffordshire Golf Club.

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2017

A warm friendly welcome awaits whether you currently have a handicap or are a complete beginner

COUNTRY MEMBERSHIP

FULL 7 DAY MEMBERSHIP

FLEXIBLE MEMBERSHIP

20 miles + away

For ladies who join during this 125th Anniversary year usual price £1270. 30% discount in year 1 and 15% discount in year 2 – no joining fee

Local and only play occasionally?

Unlimited golf at South Staffs for £410 per annum

A voucher based membership – 10 x 18 holes and 10 x 9 holes £425

All the above membership categories are subject to affiliation fees

SPECIAL WINTER WARMERS OFFER 18 holes of golf including hot bap only £25pp - must be pre-booked 1st November to 28th February

Book a tee time for £69.00 (max 12 players) - Limited availability Mon-Friday only

Struggling For that perFect giFt idea?

Gift vouchers available for Golf lessons, clothing and equipment from our fully stocked pro shop

2018 WINTER 7 dAy MEMbERShIP Available 1st February to 30th April for £200 Function room available for corporate/private Christmas parties

For more details please contact our Club Manager, Sue LeBeau on 01902 751065 Or email suelebeau@southstaffsgc.co.uk The South Staffordshire Golf Club, Danescourt Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9BQ Tel: www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk 01902 751065 @SouthStaffsgc

/SouthStaffsGolfClub www.southstaffordshiregolfclub.co.uk 127

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LEXUS WOLVERHAMPTON Bilston Road, Wolverhampton WV2 2QE 01902 690 024 wolverhampton.lexus.co.uk 128

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CT 200h prices start from £23,495. Model shown is CT 200h F SPORT with Premier pack £31,855 including optional metallic paint at £610. *3.9% APR Representative, £1,250 Hybrid Deposit Allowance and £750 Centre Contribution only available on new retail orders of CT Hybrid between 2 October 2017 and 17 December 2017 and registered and financed through Lexus Financial Services by 31 March 2018 on a 42 month Lexus Connect (PCP) plan with 0%-35% deposit. Lexus Financial Services is a trading name of Toyota Financial Services (UK) PLC; registered office Great Burgh, Burgh Heath, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5UZ. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Finance subject to status to over 18s. Other finance offers are available but cannot be used in conjunction with this offer. Offer may be varied or withdrawn at any time. 8,000 miles per annum, excess miles over contracted charged at 9p per mile. Lexus Centres are independent of Lexus Financial Services. Affordable finance through Lexus Connect. Terms and conditions apply.

The MPG figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results. They are provided for comparability purposes, and may not reflect actual driving experience. CT 200h F SPORT with Premier pack fuel consumption and CO2 figures: urban 68.9 mpg (4.1 l/100km), extra-urban 70.6 mpg (4.0 l/100km), combined 68.9 mpg (4.1 l/100km), 94g/km CO2 (17% BIK)

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel Signature Luxury Cars 82 Appliances Electrical & Gas Geoff Hill Electrical 37 Awnings Castle Blinds 25 Balloons Prince & Princesses 106 Bathrooms Brierley Hill Bathrooms 31 Roman Bathrooms 9 11 Wall Heath Bathrooms Beauticians Heaven Skin Care 89 Wollaston Beauty Clinic 95 Beds & Bedroom Furniture Dreamland 23 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 33 Merridale 29 Sofa Factory Outlet 27 Woodrobes 13 Blinds – Curtains - Shutters Castle Blinds 25 34/35 Ralvern Val Hever Blinds 19 Boiler Service & Installations Centra Heat 43 Gas First 45 Building & Maintenance Contractors PEJ Construction 41 5 Three Pines Building Societies Dudley Building Society 113 Car Sales & Service Charles Clark (Lexus) 128/129 Caravan Accessories Cannock Caravans 53 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Zero Drytime 44 Carpets/Flooring – Supply & Fit ND Walters 15 Dentistry Parkdale Dentures 104 Parkdale Implants 2 Driveways PEJ Construction 41 Resindrives.co.uk 131

Education Newbridge Preparatory School 116 Wolverhampton Grammar 119 Entertainment & Leisure Hagley Golf Club 123 Hagley Hall 59 Estate / Letting agents Berriman Eaton 6/7 Exterior cleaning & maintenance Able Facilities Services 29/46 Fashion - Retail Aristocats 90/91 Classy Rags 98/99 Tiger Lily 101 Fencing & Gates Profence 47 Fireplaces & Stoves Flaming Fires 11 20/21 Wolverhampton Fireplaces Firewood Black Country Firewood 47 Fitness & Leisure South Staffordshire Leisure 107 Floristry Supplies & Craft Products Country Baskets 61 Furniture & Furnishings Merridale 29 Ralvern 34/35 27 Sofa Factory Outlet Virgo 19 Galleries & Gift Shops Stourbridge Galleries 57 Gaming & Entertainment Casino 36 80 Gardening & Landscaping Lealans Garden Centre 55 Glazing Repairs Blakes Glass & Glazing 26 Golf Clubs Enville Golf Club 125 Hagley Golf Club 123 South Staffs Golf Club 127 Hairdressers Capelli 93 Health Care Cover Paycare 111 Hospices Compton Hospice 87 Hot Tubs Jacuzzi at Webbs of Wychbold 51

Independent Financial Advisers Midland Independent Financial Services 16/17 Indian Takeaway Restaurants Blue Ginger 85 Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 33 Roman Bathrooms 9 Lighting Lighting R Us 38/39 Luxury Travel Signature Luxury Cars 82 Opticians Taylor Biddle 105 Painters & Decorators Dave Russon 44 46 Patrick Bellew Private Hospitals West Midlands Hospital 103/109 Professional Party Planners Prince & Princesses 106 Restaurants & Pubs Bilash 69 Casino 36 80 Halfpenny Green Vineyards 71 Harleys Smokehouse 83 The Cowshed 81 The French Connection 77 Wombourne Tandoori 73 Solicitors Higgs & Sons 115 Tea Rooms Halfpenny Green Vineyards 71 Himley Hall 67 Theatres The Grand Theatre 52/132 Vein Clinics Simon Hobbs 101 Veterinary Services Blacks Vets 48/49 Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Vineyards 71 Wedding Venues Davenport House 63 Hagley Hall 59 Himley Hall 67 Windows, Doors & Conservatories

By Design Doors 19 Hayley Windows 15

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PAYMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE

WRITTEN DETAILS ON REQUEST

“IT’S MADE A MASSIVE DIFFERENCE FROM OUR O L D D R I V E WAY ! ” Mr and Mrs Cooke

A DRI V E WAY A dream drive is closer than you think because at Resin Drives we will pay your VAT when you purchase either a Drive, Path, or Patio from our new and exclusive range.

of

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Why should you install a Resin Drive?

That’s simple; our product naturally drains water through it which means no puddles.

Also, with a slip resistant surface it provides better traction for tyres and gives more grip for when you walk on it, making your drive a safe place to be!

C A L L THE DRIVEWAY, PATH AND PATIO SPECIALISTS TODAY!

0800 007 5733 LINES OPEN 7AM - 10PM

O R V I S I T W W W. R E S I N D R I V E S .CO. U K I N S TA L L E R S N AT I O N W I D E Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN743675). We are a Credit Broker and not a lender.

We offer credit facilities from one lender Resindrives.co.uk ltd. Resindrives.co.uk trading as Resindrives.co.uk ltd.

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