Town & Village Life Magazine - November/December 2020 by Jonathon

TOWN & VILLAGE LIFE MAGAZINE LOCAL MAGAZINE DELIVERED TO 16,000 SELECTED HOMES AND BUSINESSES

CHRISTMAS EDITION ■ Get your home ready

for Christmas

■ Food and Drink

for all occasions

■ Christmas Beauty

Gift Ideas

■ Fashion, Hair,

Health & Beauty

WIN: ■ A mixed case of

6 award-winning wines with Halfpenny Green Wine Estate

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER 2020

DELIVERED TO AREAS OF: BELBROUGHTON, HAGLEY, WEST HAGLEY, STOURBRIDGE, LAWNSWOOD, PEDMORE, WALL HEATH, NORTON, OLDSWINFORD, WOLLASTON, AMBLECOTE, WORDSLEY, KINVER, KINGSWINFORD, BOBBINGTON, HEATHTON, STOURTON, ENVILLE, SWINDON, HIMLEY AND SEDGLEY

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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From the editor

A typical Christmas editor’s letter usually features just the right dose of whimsy and merriment, before a swift run through of local events and attractions, except… this Christmas will be like no other. And while that will be for reasons we don’t want, the outcome may be one that we do, because the majority of us will be getting back to basics with an ‘old fashioned’ Christmas at home with our families, which is much more in keeping with tradition. At this time of year especially, everyone should stop and take stock and just as our collective suffering during lockdown brought out the best in us, Christmas ought to as well. See the sterling work being done at Compton Care for your inspiration. And there’s no reason to think that a Christmas at home won’t be fun. With the proper attitude even terrible TV, over-cooked sprouts and board games can all be taken with an easy smile. Why not use the lead up to Christmas to improve your own culinary skills. Here’s a tip: buy your food from local suppliers and then, because of their superior produce, your Christmas Day dinner can’t fail. We really do have one of the finest butchers around in Poxon’s at Castlecroft. We have loads of gift-buying inspiration for you as well from too many advertisers to mention. Our pages on Christmas decorations are sure to brighten up even the dullest day. Wollaston Beauty Clinic has a fantastic range of fragrant goodies to enliven both your body and mind and put you in a festive mood. And then you can really banish the winter blues with a splash of colour – and an entirely new way of thinking about your wardrobe – from House of Colour. Supporting local business is more important now than ever: I’m as guilty as anyone for using convenient internet shopping but I always make a special effort to support local businesses. Having a strong local economy benefits us all. Trades-people belong in this conversation as well: never have trusted craftspeople been needed more, so check out our carefully selected advertisers for everything and anything. Enjoying a little bit of something special is something no-one can disagree with at this time of year. Halfpenny Green Wine Estate has the right idea with its indulgent tasting sessions and private shopping experience. When on the subject of exclusive gift-buying experiences it would be churlish not to mention Rudell the Jewellers’ new, fantastic Rolex section in their flagship Wolverhampton store: quaff champagne before treating a special someone: go on, it’s long past time. Similarly, there are more high-end gifts to be enjoyed from “Queen Bee” of Beauty, Deborah Mitchell; if these Heaven treatments are good enough for her Royal and celebrity clientele then they’re good enough for us – even vegans won’t be disappointed. Sticking to gifts more firmly than a young child on Christmas morning, there’s more inspiration inside from Stourbridge Galleries. We know social gatherings have to be pared right down this year (no panto from The Grand – boo, hiss Covid-19 – but our favourite theatre still has good news to tell after securing major funding from Government), so we’ve put together some nostalgia with a look back at our most photographed couple, Royston Blythe and Nick Malenko. We can guarantee you a lot of laughs and fabulous smiles within this feature – and if you’re interested in improving your own smile, then look no further than Willows Dental. We have pages on financial advice to help reassure you that you’re fully prepared for the future. Whether your financial advisor can reassure you that you’re ready to own a Bentley like the Continental GTC (we have a review of it inside), we certainly can’t guarantee. Still, it never hurts to ask…especially at Christmas. So, let’s all try to follow government advice – hands, face, space – as well as my own recommendation: eat, drink and be merry! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year…

10-11 04

Geoff

72-81

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Congratulations to: Winner of Halfpenny Green Wine Estate competition Mike Attwood, Stourbridge Winner of West Midland Safari Park competition Rachael Pearce, Brierley Hill

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104-105

120-121

Contents November/December 10/11 Making an entrance 14 The local property market 24 Stourbridge RFC 28 Crosswords and puzzles 32 Willows: Dentistry making a difference 38 Parkfield Grange opens show suites 42 How to enjoy a greener Christmas 44 Travel: Discovering Bath 50/51 Choosing and caring for your Christmas tree 58 Gardening with Ann Winwood 68 Rotary Club of Kinver 70 Travel Insurance advice 76 Halfpenny Green Wine Estate competition 78 Recipe – Cinnamon stars 79 Recipe – Winter braised lamb shanks 88-93 Christmas made easy with Heaven 96 Christmas gift ideas from Wollaston Beauty Clinic 104/105 Ladies Fashion: Winter looks all wrapped up 108 Christmas can be chaos for your gut 112/113 Award winning care at Willows Dental 120/121 Royston Blythe: a trip down memory lane 122 Health: self help for sore knees 126/127 Motoring: Bentley Continental GTC 128 Grand Theatre secures government funding 129 Index to advertisers 129 Answers to crosswords and puzzles

123-125 Town & Village Life Magazine Ltd 1 Lytham Rd, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY Tel: 01902 744217 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Town & Village Life magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, The Publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert or editorial. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Town & Village Life magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise – without the prior consent of Town & Village Life magazine Ltd.

Magazine Distribution Letterbox Marketing Solutions Total distribution 16,000 copies bi-monthly

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126-127 Advertising enquiries Gisella Wiley, Sales Director (gisella@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk) Editorial/What’s On information Geoff Hall, Editor (info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk) Magazine Design Studio 28 Design & Print (studio@s28.co.uk) 05

Keep warm this winter with underfloor heating about making your home a warm sanctuary from the outside world.

eep warm this winter with an underfloor heating system in your home: the modern way to heat your home from the ground up with a warm gentle heat that will be evenly distributed throughout the room. Hotspots and therefore cooler areas are often created with conventional central heating systems, this is not the case with an underfloor heating system where a real cosy feel throughout the room is guaranteed. The temperature is dropping making now the ideal time to think

At Tile Choice we have a large range of underfloor heating systems available offering you affordability and excellent long-term product satisfaction. We supply systems from Warmup, the industry-leading and best-selling manufacturer of underfloor heating systems, with also an alternative lower cost brand, Superheat, available. Catering for a range of budgets and applications means you can find the perfect underfloor heating system for your home here at Tile Choice. Recent years have seen an increase in the types of underfloor heating systems available meaning they are now suitable for installation under a number of different flooring bases including both hard and soft flooring options. The versatility in types of system available mean you can install underfloor heating throughout

the home with kitchens, living rooms, bathrooms, bedrooms etc all benefiting from the beautifully gentle heat created, ensuring you have warm toes even in the coldest of days. We believe an underfloor heating system is the perfect addition to a tiled floor. The heat radiates across the tiles giving a beautifully warm feeling underfoot and ensuring the home feels cosy all year round. This in addition to the existing benefits of a tiled floor such as long-term durability and ease of maintenance makes a tiled floor the ultimate choice for luxurious style within the home. Underfloor heating systems have often been seen as a luxury reserved for high end establishments, however the affordability of the modern system makes them an option for all homes, adding a touch of luxury without breaking the bank.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

BRAND NEW TETTENHALL DEVELOPMENT COMING SOON

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Making an Entrance

Your hallway needs to be a goodlooking, welcoming space for visitors and a practical area for storage. Get the basics right, says Katherine Sorrell, and the rest will follow. Colour and pattern for the walls Choose a paint colour or wallpaper that you love, and that coordinates with the colours that can be seen in adjoining rooms. While pale colours reflect light and emphasise a sense of space, dark schemes can be both cosy and interesting. In busy households with young children and pets, it’s a good idea to protect at least the lower halves 10

of the walls from wear and tear. period properties). Floorboards or Extra-tough paint is a good choice, parquet will need regular polishing or consider adding a dado rail and or waxing, but be careful with cladding the walls below it with wood laminates – they are cheaper, tongue-and-groove panelling, tiles but may not last long. Good quality or hard-wearing vinyl wallpaper. vinyl flooring, in sheet or tile form is Period-style patterned tiles or sturdy, cleanable and comfortable embossed wallpapers are particularly appropriate for A spacious sideboard, if you have room for older properties with period one, is an excellent addition to any hall, features; you might want combining hidden storage and surface display to choose patterns that space. This one blends pale timber with classic black for a smart and minimal look. echo other elements of the house, such as cornices or fireplace surrounds.

Choosing the right flooring It makes sense for the flooring to be durable, non-slip, dirt-resistant and easy to keep clean – pale carpet is probably not a good idea. So, what to choose? Tiles are very easy to care for, and there are various options, including stone, ceramic or quarry, or colourful Victorian encaustic (perfect for town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

underfoot. If you prefer a more luxurious feel, a dark wool carpet in an 80:20 mix of wool and nylon with a twist pile should withstand heavy usage or, for a more rustic look, how about tough natural matting such as coir, sisal or rush?

Lighting makes all the difference Halls are often windowless and dark and, while they do not need to be very bright, should be welcoming and lead the eye into your home, as well as safely illuminating any steps or thresholds. One small change that may help is to use a specialist light-reflecting paint, or wallpaper with a metallic sheen. Add a large mirror, too – also helpful for checking your reflection just before you leave the house. In terms of light fittings, wall lights are not ideal in a narrow hall, as they may just act as obstacles; a series

of recessed ceiling downlights is better or, if your ceilings are high enough, a pendant (or a row of them) that suits the style of other furnishings works well.

Storage is essential Most people store a variety of things in their halls and the type of storage you choose is best moulded around what you need to store, how much space it will take up and how frequently you need to access it. Built-in storage makes the most of every inch of space. Shallow, floor-to-ceiling cupboards with doors painted the same colour as the walls, or mirrored to maximise light, will hold masses yet be barely noticeable. Alternatively, make a statement with a choice of free-standing, perhaps vintage or upcycled, cupboards, sideboards or benches. Umbrella stands, dog beds and boot racks are ideal for spacious, country-style halls, while narrow, urban halls might benefit

from a high-up hook for a bike and a slim shelf above a radiator on which to keep post and keys.

Add a finishing touch In a hall that has windows, think about how your blinds or curtains will complement the rest of the space. The colours and patterns of fabric can co-ordinate with cushions or upholstery on seating, for example. A long, thin floor runner adds a nice touch of softness, pattern and texture on hard floors but always use a non-slip underlay beneath. Hang paintings or photographs on the walls, in rows or informal groupings, taking care that their frames coordinate with each other and with the décor overall. Finally, why not add some plants, books or a pretty lamp on a console table? You can create a beautiful display that shows off your personality and creates a lovely welcome to your home.

A pale wood floor is practical and beautiful, and tongue-and-groove walls are easy to maintain in case of muddy splashes.

In a spacious hallway, more than one item of storage furniture will work a treat. They don’t have to match exactly – this pairing helps create a welcoming, eclectic look that has heaps of character.

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The Woodlands RetiRement Residence

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

maintaining privacy and dignity. Individualised care is delivered within a secure, relaxed, homely and conducive environment, where a residentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s physical and psychological care, wellbeing and comfort are of prime importance to both staff and management.

The Woodlands offers a warm welcoming and family atmosphere. We have a team of trained and dedicated staff that bring compassion and experience to every aspect of their work, providing high quality, professional, person centred care. We put our residents at the heart of everything we do.

The Woodlands Experience You can relax in either of the two generous lounges or private gardens, enjoying the home cooked food or spending time with family and friends. Diets and daily living choices are tailored for you.

The Woodlands is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and provides excellent Palliative care.

Stimulate your Mind Everything from armchair exercises to vocalists and piano recitals. Parties to celebrate special events and birthdays are also hosted. You have the option to be as involved in our fun and engaging activities as little or as much as you like.

The Woodlands Philosophy The Woodlands philosophy of care is to offer the highest standards of holistic care to each resident based on an initial assessment and a regularly updated plan of person centered care; to encourage independence and individuality whilst

We liaise closely with family and friends, encouraging open, two-way communication at all times so as to ensure good relationships.

Training and Development We are committed to the training and development of our staff, which enhances the quality of life of our residents. All staff have an enhanced CRB check and receive a comprehensive induction. All have complete mandatory training and either hold or are working towards their NVQ level 2 and/or 3 in Health and Social Care. Each member of staff is fully supervised and has an individual learning and development plan, which ensures they are fully competent to deliver the highest standard of care in a professional manner.

At the Heart of our Care Planning Our trained and dedicated team is on hand 24 hours a day to help you. When you first arrive at The Woodlands an individual care plan will be prepared, tailored to your individual needs. We work closely with our local GP surgeries and their District Nurses to ensure the highest level of medical care and attention. We also have regular visits from other practitioners such as chiropodists, dentists, opticians and the hairdresser. www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

The local

by Nick Berriman

property market What next for the housing market? The current, exceptionally buoyant, state of the property market has been well documented in recent months – my own last couple of articles for Town and Village Life have delivered positive news that I had not previously been expecting to be able to deliver. But where will we go from here?

growth was up 3.7% annually, more than double the rate of growth in July, with average prices also up 2% on a monthly basis.This is the highest monthly rise since February 2004!

The immediate, and obvious, answer is ‘Who knows?’. Had I been told, back in March, when lockdown commenced that our firm would experience a record-breaking post lockdown quarter, with over £180 million worth of business being secured, over 210 sales being agreed and over 210 new instructions having been received, I would have laughed and certainly not have believed it. But here we are, and it has happened!

Savills, one of the leading housing marketing analysts, have recently released their predictions for the next few years. They have forecast significant growth in residential property prices and that the UK housing market will remain buoyant with prices set to rise by roughly 20% by 2024, despite the current pandemic which has heightened uncertainty over the economy, employment and, of course, finances.They believe that average property prices will increase by 4% this year before stabilising in 2021, with home price growth across the UK forecast to pick up again in 2022 when values are set to rise by 4%, and accelerate to 6.5% by 2023.Their research reveals that UK house price growth in 2024 will rise again by 4.5%.

The Nationwide Building Society reported that UK house prices hit a record high in August as pre-Covid demand and the Stamp Duty holiday started to convert into market activity. The lender’s August house price index shows annual house price

It is clear that the current levels of business are being underpinned by the stamp duty holiday which ends in March of next year - it is thought that some £500 million worth of stamp duty savings could be seen nationally in this period. There had been widespread concerns in the industry that, come the end of March, the market would suffer and things could go horribly wrong. However, recent indications are beginning to suggest that this will not be the case.

Only time will tell if these predictions prove to be correct – hindsight is always a wonderful thing, and nobody has a crystal ball. It is, however, encouraging that the doom and gloom mongers may well be as wrong as they were during lockdown, when everyone seemed to believe the market would stagnate or crash in the latter half of this year - admittedly, myself included! So far, this article has been very dry, with an overload of statistics, but I believe that they are useful to us all to give a balanced overview of the state of the housing market. Our homes are often the most expensive asset we own and their value, and potential future value, is very close to our hearts. But enough of the figures, time for some positive current news… Berriman Eaton is expanding its reach! More details will follow soon, but we are delighted to announce that we are soon opening a new branch. We currently have a branch in Tettenhall (West Midlands), a branch in Bridgnorth (Shropshire) and a branch in Wombourne (South Staffordshire). Worcestershire is next! We are opening a new office in a natural extension to our current geographical coverage, and we are fortunate enough to be working alongside two exceptional estate agents who have many years’ experience in the area, both having previously been senior figures in one of the region’s leading agencies with distinguished careers and a loyal following. In fact, we have already successfully sold a couple of properties in the new area before we have even launched. More details in my next article!

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

Another stunning new development by Hovi Homes

COMPLETION SUMMER 2021 STUNNING NEW DEVELOPMENT OF 3,4 AND 5 BEDROOM HOUSES 5 MILES FROM BRIDGNORTH Prices from £359,000 to £895,000

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With paddocks, a fine five-bedroom village residence, magnificently positioned behind a long drive and mature gardens in over four and a half acres. With rural views and great privacy, this is a fabulous project for the ‘ forever’ family home.

Whitfield is a 1930’s Gentleman’s Residence’ that has been a special home for the current family for decades. From family weddings, pony paddocks and a large kitchen garden, the house also hosts a quirky bar

for the ultimate par ty atmosphere. This five-bedroom home has high ceilings, decorative plaster work, a wide turning staircase, oak panelling, parquet flooring and feature windows that are features to preserve. With

a gated entrance onto the hear t shaped drive, there is a double garage and a wide variety of mature trees and planting with the house positioned back from the road. There are paddocks to the side and rear.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

guide Price

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Viewing: please contact the Bridgnorth Office.

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

To arrange a personal consultation please call: 0121 561 4374 110 - 111 High Street, Blackheath B65 0EG email info@romanbathrooms.co.uk | www.romanbathrooms.co.uk DESIGN - SUPPLY - INSTALL www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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had just This time last year we l bonfire essfu finished a very succ g forward to kin loo re we d an night y fixtures, gb ru of a December full gular Turkey office parties, the re Christmas Supper, the annual Corporate as Fayre, the Christm traditional al nu an Lunch and the against our Boxing Day fixtures Dudley old friends and rivals sterdays! ye r Kingswinford. All ou Compare that with this year and the picture is drastically different. Social distancing restraints scuppered any realistic prospects of bonfire night and are having the same effect on any practical thoughts and ideas of hosting too many get-togethers as space is at a premium when practicing necessary Covid related social distancing. But all is not lost. At least we have our outside facilities on our three grass pitches and the all-weather AGP pitchâ&#x20AC;Ś and these are being used to the maximum at weekends and most evenings both for rugby training, some non-contact ten a side rugby games and six a side football. Sandwell College Rugby Academy are also based here offering a BTEC Level 3 extended Diploma in Sport. As far as competitive league rugby goes we are in the hands of the RFU and the Department of Culture Media and Sport and await their instructions to move forward to Phase E of the Return to Rugby Road Map

which will allow full contact training and then to move on to the final Phase F which will allow competitive league rugby against other clubs. The earliest this will be is January which will mean a truncated season stretching to the end of May. You may have seen Premiership Rugby on TV, but they are having all their squads and back up staff tested for Covid twice weekly at about ÂŁ90 per individual test. If you work out the sums you will realise that such expense is way beyond the pockets of community clubs so we just have to continue to be patient. On the plus side we have been able to organise some interclub Ready for Rugby ten a side games and we will be starting Walking Rugby on November 6th which is another initiative to maintain interest and fitness. Our Women and Girls train regularly on Monday evenings. The club house is open most evenings and on Sundays. As a long established club we are fortunate to have very loyal sponsors and members who have been generous in continuing their commitment throughout the season even though they are fully aware that the most competitive games they will be able to watch will be half the norm. Stay safe everyone and enjoy Christmas as best you can in these uncertain times.

We all look forward to a normal year in 2021 with fingers crossed.

T: 01384 395000 E: rugby@stourbridgerugby.com www.stourbridgerugby.com 24

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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Crossword Across 1 Used for measuring (4) 3 Goes before (8) 9 Against (7) 10 Removes sensation (5) 11 Immediate environment (12) 14 Uncooked (3) 16 Edition (5) 17 To colour (3) 18 Very keen (12) 21 Not dead (5) 22 European country (7) 23 Simultaneously (8) 24 Happy (4)

Puzzle answers on page 129

Down 1 Item of clothing (8) 2 Writing material (5) 4 Stick, cane (3) 5 Significant (12) 6 Broken (7) 7 Type of window (4) 8 Amazement (12) 12 Birds dwellings (5) 13 Received gladly (8) 15 Not losing (7) 19 Spin around (5) 20 Sour (4) 22 Farewell (3)

Sudoku How to play Sudoku Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s simple! Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to be a genius. These puzzles use logic alone. Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.

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

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OVER 300 MATTRESSES IN STOCK FOR PRE-CHRISTMAS DELIVERY GIVE THE GIFT OF A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP THIS CHRISTMAS Here at Dreamland we have 100’s of beds in stock for almost immediate delivery. With the current covid virus crisis many products are taking several months to deliver from the manufactures. To combat this Dreamland have been working with many suppliers to order backing stock. When ordering these higher levels of stock discounts from the supplier have been obtained which will be passed directly onto our customers. Whatever your needs, budget and size requirements we are sure you’ll find your new sleep solution in store. We are operating strict covid secure restrictions both in store and with the delivery team, limiting the number of customers in the store at anyone point, and providing personal mattress protectors for customers to try the products. We use enhanced delivery protocols and PPE is available at every entry point to the store.

Dreamland Comfort suppliers since 1976

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Willows…

dentistry

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making a difference

In Alara, Sophie helped build schools consisting of a mud floor and metal roof; despite the appearance they enable children to receive education with potential to escape poverty. Once built, Sophie taught year 4 maths but with a twist; they were working at A-level standard. As a result, the class taught Sophie! The fundamental importance of education within Alara is clear as children study till 2am. Sophie discovered this when woken to a girl straddling her on all fours shouting “Jambo! We’ve come to teach you our language!”

In 2014 Dental Hygienist and Therapist Sophie Jane Baker volunteered in Africa with Kenya2020, whose aim is to enable communities within Alara to become self-sufficient. Sophie lived with the Maasai Mara tribe at Maasai Mara National Reserve. During a safari tour there was a poacher alert within the local vicinity. Faced with two choices; return to camp or stop the poachers. They decided to head to the area. A warning shot was fired. Unphased, the poachers continued until more volunteers advanced. Overwhelmed, the poachers fled the scene. The team ensured no elephants were harmed. Following the dramatics of the day, a celebratory feast had been prepared. Volunteers were asked to dance with the tribesman and were instructed to copy the moves. After, they were informed that this was part of the tribe’s marriage rituals so each had a husband! This wasn’t real, but for teenagers it was enough to send them screaming to their tents!

Kasoki Primary School performed a beautiful musical implementing English words. When the performances came to an end, donated gifts were presented. The children burst with excitement over bubbles. Having never seen this before they were convinced it was magic and played for hours. A startling realisation that the simplest things could bring immense pleasure to someone who has so little. Within Kenya, shoes are a luxury unobtainable to many. Consequently, the majority walk bare foot enabling parasites (locally known as giggers) to bury into feet. Giggers can lead to irritation and infection. Unfortunately this was the case of one elderly woman, who sadly died. Tragically, this is frequent. A decision was made to travel between schools offering gigger removal. In theory a simple venture but, with a lack of basic equipment and medical care the group only had a few scalpels to complete the traumatic task. A medical clinic operated by volunteers and medical staff provided general health checks and vaccinations. It was essential that all were thoroughly checked for multiple issues. During clinic a boy fainted, Sophie approached the situation to discover a disturbing scene of the unconscious boy convulsing on the floor. Sophie alerted medical staff. The boy, barely responsive was driven 8 hours to the local medical centre on a motorbike. Doctors stated that had Sophie’s team not acted quickly, the disease would have proved to be fatal. Sophie witnessed Fluorosis; a result of excessive Fluoride intake. This fascinated Sophie leading to her researching prevention techniques available within low socio-economic regions.

Sophie then went on to complete her degree in Dental Hygiene and Therapy at The University of Birmingham with the dream of one day returning to provide dental support. 32

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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Luxurious, warm carpets and durable, practical hard floors for your home

A Family Owned And

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88/90 Dudley Rd. Sedgley DY3 1TA Tel: 01902 883281

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

Showroom address:

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Mon-Friday – 9.00am-5.30pm Saturday – 10.00am-4.00pm Sunday – Closed

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk *20% offer valid at time of placing your order until 30th January 2021.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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Make your home look amazing this Christmas

ou’ll find a fabulous range of soft furnishings and interior accessories in store, that will make your home look amazing – including lighting, lamps, mirrors, vases, clocks, picture frames, ornaments and much more. Specialists in making and fitting curtains, the Kingswinford-based store supplies leading textile brands, such as Prestigious, Ashley Wilde and Bill Beaumont – ensuring there’s something for every home interior. As Natalie Hemmings explains: “We’re proud to supply fabric and wall coverings from top brands and have a fantastic choice of styles that’ll suit both traditional and modern décor tastes.” A full measuring, making and fitting service is all part of what the team offer, so all you need to do is pick the designs that are right for you.

“Of course, if you’ve already found the fabric you want to work with, then we’re more than happy to take care of the making for you.” Offering a ‘total sewing service’ means that the team are experts in dress alterations too: “We specialise in bridal and prom-wear and can undertake any alterations that you require for a perfect fit.” They also offer an embroidery service to alter teddies, work wear, school wear and hobby clothing. “We’re happy to undertake any clothing alterations, large or small - everything from a broken zip to customising a gown. 40

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

Looking to make Christmas extra speCiaL this year? You’ll find a wide range of festive products, with personalisation available on everYthing - including stockings, sacks, cubbies, tablewear and accessories. Our extensive selection of curtains and blinds will also have your home looking cosy and updated, ready in time to enjoy with your family over the Christmas season.

Whatever you’ve got in-mind, give the Total Sewing Service team a call today or call in at the showroom. You’re sure to be delighted with the results.

Cur tains and Blinds ~ Soft furnishings Haberdashery ~ Alterations ~ Embroidery

Advice, Measure, Make, Fit Homeware and Accessories now in stock Bespoke curtains and blinds, all made to measure, with 100’s of fabrics to choose from Large range of wallcoverings • Huge range of poles and tracks • Haberdashery Wool and knitting patterns • Dressmaking fabrics and patterns Clothing alterations, specialising in bridal and prom wear, with tailoress on site New embroidery service, with logo digitising facility available

Open : 9 a m - 5 p m M o n d a y t o F r i d ay. 9am- 4p m S at urd ay. Tel: 01384 295960

7 The Cross, Kingswinford, DY6 9JA

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

www.totalsewing.co.uk

s a m t s i r Ch

How to enjoy a greener

drop-off points in your area where it can be recycled once Christmas is over.

Buy second-hand

‘Less is more’ is a mantra that’s rarely heard around Christmas. This year, show planet Earth a little love with these five eco-friendly Christmas tips. Rent, reuse or recycle a tree Every December, up to eight million Christmas trees are bought in the UK alone, most of which are dumped at the end of the season. That’s a lot of waste! Plastic trees last for years but take enormous amounts of energy to manufacture. Buying pre-loved ones on eBay, Gumtree and Freecycle, however, is a great way to reuse what would otherwise be thrown away. If Christmas isn’t the same without that authentic pine tree scent, why not rent a tree from a local farm? After you’ve used it, it’ll be picked up and replanted, ready for next year. When buying new, look out for the ‘Grown in Britain’ label or FSC ‘seal of approval’, and find

Gifts don’t have to be new to bring a smile to someone’s face. Suggest a second-hand present rule with family and friends this year, where you only buy each other pre-loved gifts. These could be from a charity shop or websites such as eBay. If you’re feeling crafty, you could even whip up some gifts from home. Candles, jams and chutneys or knitted hats and scarves: get creative and see where your talents take you! Source locally grown food We’re all guilty of buying – and eating – a little more food than we need at Christmas, so it’s important to make sure it’s coming from a sustainable place. Instead of fighting over groceries in the supermarket aisle, source your Christmas lunch from local farm shops and choose an organic, freerange turkey. Food tastes a lot better when you know where it’s come from! Sadly, Christmas is also the most wasteful time of the year, so make sure you only buy things that you know will get eaten. If you get carried away, turn your leftovers into new meals, see how much you can fit in the freezer or donate to a local food bank.

Rethink your decorations

From Christmas lights to candles, who would have thought that decorations could be bad for the environment? Fortunately, something as simple as switching your incandescent lights to LEDs can cut energy usage by up to 80%! You don’t have to give up your candle collection either; look out for soy or beeswax candles, which don’t contain harmful paraffin wax. The chances are you have Christmas decorations rattling round in your attic, so don’t waste money – or materials – buying new ones. If you do, head to charity or vintage shops to find some pre-loved styles. Wrap sustainably We use over 8,000 tonnes of wrapping paper over Christmas, much of which isn’t recyclable! It’s depressing, but don’t lose hope. Try wrapping presents with old wallpaper, posters or newspapers, and save the wrapping paper on your own gifts for next year. A great way to test if wrapping paper can be recycled is to scrunch it up in your hands and then let it go. If the paper stays crumpled it can be recycled, but if it unfolds by itself it probably contains non-recyclable elements.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

“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

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!

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. 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

Our personal favourites from the collection are the LED baubles, coming in various sizes. Teaming the two up together, can create a dazzling display anywhere. Another favourite, that we simply love, are the colour-changing penguins. The cute, little, duo can be placed anywhere for a festive feel. 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, as well as by browsing through the brochure at the entire collection, which you can also view on our website.

www.lightingrus.co.uk | sales@lightingrus.co.uk | 01902 757825 UNIT 1A, WALTON WORKS INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, MACROME RD, ALDERSLEY, WOLVERHAMPTON, WV6 9HD

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Discovering Bath If you’re still not sold on travelling abroad this winter, choose to holiday closer to home with a city break in Bath, one of the UK’s national treasures. After the year we’ve had, understandably many of us aren’t keen on travelling outside of the UK this winter – but that doesn’t mean you can’t book a holiday closer to home. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bath is a great option for a UK-based city break, where luxurious spas, historical tales and awe-inspiring architecture are all part of the experience. Here’s what not to miss while you’re there. The largest city in Somerset, Bath is easily accessible by rail or road for anyone living in England and Wales. But, if you did want to ﬂy, Bristol Airport is only 20 miles away. Tempted? Here’s what not to miss while you’re there:

Warm up in a thermal spa Bath is best known for housing one of the world’s bestpreserved Roman bathhouses, a piece of history so important

that it gave the city its name. Naturally heated to around 46°C, the water comes from the city’s hot springs which are packed with over forty diﬀerent healing minerals. After being discovered by Prince Bladud around 863 BC, these natural spring waters became a constant theme throughout the city’s history.

You can learn more about her time in Bath at the Jane Austen Centre, where guides in period costumes and a Regency tearoom really help bring her stories to life.

The original Roman baths are no longer safe for swimming, but you can still book a tour around the temple and bathing complex. If you do fancy a dip, the Thermae Bath Spa is right next door and uses the same mineral-rich water, treated to make it safe for public use. There’s no better place to warm up this winter; indulge in a treatment or two before bathing in the rooftop pool, drinking in the views of the surrounding cityscape.

After taking a liking to Bath during the eighteenth century, the Georgians built much of the city you’ll see today. They used the famous Bath limestone to construct elaborate buildings, including Circus, the Assembly Rooms and the Pump Rooms. The Royal Crescent is an absolute must-see: this beautiful, curved row of thirty Georgian terraces is probably Bath’s most impressive piece of architecture.

Walk in Jane Austen’s shoes For any Jane Austen fan, Bath will conjure up images of the style and sophistication of the 1800s. Not only did the author live here for ﬁve years, but she also used the city as a setting for two of her novels, Northanger Abbey and Persuasion.

Take an architectural tour Walking through Bath will take you on a journey through centuries of architectural art.

Visit some museums Bath is a treasure chest of museums and galleries; you’d need a week to visit them all! Two of the most famous are The Fashion Museum, home to over 100,000 items of clothing and footwear, and The Museum of Bath Architecture, the best place to learn about the city’s distinctive Georgian structures.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

Macrome Road, Claregate, Wolverhampton, WV6 9HD Salop Street, Wolverhampton, WV3 0RX Castle Street, Hadley, Telford, TF1 6GJ

01902 752764 01902 429060 01952 257007

*Terms and Conditions apply. Sold as an agent of Euronics Limited. All rights reserved. All offers are subject to availability while stocks last. Delivery & Installation charges may apply. Exclusions and Radius Apply. See in store for full details. Images for illustration purposes only. www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk Copyright Euronics 2018. E&OE September 2018.

Garolla: Roller garage doors you can rely on Searching for Roller Garage Doors that offer unmatched quality at unbeatable prices? Then look no further than Garolla, the UK’s first nationwide Roller Garage Door installer. Transform the appearance of your exteriors and improve the security of your home all in one by updating to a Garolla Garage Door. Handmade by a team of skilled craftsmen, every Garolla Garage Door is made from only the very best materials and to your home’s exact specifications.

salesmen in sight. As well as installing your Garage Door, your local installer will also conduct the initial survey of your property and will always be on hand to answer any questions you might have. Offering style as well as substance, Garolla electric Garage Doors are available in 18 colours and come in two different slat sizes to perfectly fit any opening.

Quality and Value Avoid any hidden charges with Garolla, where an instant quote comes inclusive of measuring, fitting and VAT. So, you can be sure on exactly what you’re spending. For more information visit their website www.garolla.co.uk

From start to finish you will only work with your own local installer, guaranteeing no pushy

Made to Measure and Professionally Installed

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

Winterdene

ExCELLEnCE as standard

has over 15 years’ experience in administration services.

Winterdene Carpentry & Construction Ltd is a local company based in Kingswinford. We are a small family run business consisting of Lee, the founder and director who’s a qualified carpenter and has over 20 years’ experience in carpentry work. And there’s Lindsey, Lee’s wife and administrative coordinator of the company who

We carry out a comprehensive range of works which includes all aspects of carpentry such as joisting and roofing, 1st fix works which include wall studding, roof struts, door frames and floor joists through to 2nd fix works such as fitting skirting and architraves, various types of flooring, fitting internal and external doors, loft hatches and a range of internal storage solutions. We also carry out full stair renovations and we specialise in kitchen installations. We also do a range of construction services including conversions and extensions plus work on outdoor spaces such as laying decking, timber cladding, building summerhouses and constructing porches and canopies. We pride ourselves on giving exceptional customer service from the first contact to the finished product. Every job is completed to the highest standard and we offer a competitive price to our customers. We have a lot of returning customers which we think speaks for itself.

We use a number of trusted tradesmen on our jobs where needed such as plasterers and electricians who we ensure complete any works to the standards we hold for ourselves. We also enjoy a good working relationship with a number of developers who we carry out subcontract works for.

Please have a look at our website and get in touch if you’d like to discuss any projects.

ConCept to Completion

Built on Reputation

Built foR living

pRojeCt in mind? ContaCt us 07903 703028 enquiries@winterdene.co.uk www.winterdene.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

winterdene

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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Choosing and Caring

By Catherine Sorrell

for Your Christmas Tree

Which tree to buy? Where to put it? And how best to look after it? We help you to make the most of your festive centrepiece.

ome say there is no substitute for a real Christmas tree – while others argue that artificial trees are an excellent alternative. We offer some arboreal insights.

Which type of real tree? For the smell and feel of Christmas, you can’t beat a real tree. But which type should you opt for? 50

The Norway Spruce is the classic choice, with a traditional shape, plenty of branches and a longlasting scent. However, it can be on the spikey side and is more likely to shed needles. The Nordmann Fir is the most popular Christmas tree in Europe and has an even shape, soft foliage and glossy, dark green needles that don’t drop much. The Scots Pine is less common but retains its needles and has a lovely, fresh smell, while the Fraser Fir –popular in the USA – has silvery-green, dense, bushy foliage and soft, low-shed needles that give off a citrusy aroma. The majestic Noble Fir features dense whorls of blueish

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

Caring For Your Real Tree needles with well-spaced foliage while the unusual Lodgepole Pine is bushy, with upward-pointing branches, a strong pine scent and the best needle-retention of all.

• If you want it to look good right through until Twelfth Night, try to buy your tree as late as possible. • Ask the seller to saw a small slice off the bottom of the trunk (alternatively, do this yourself as soon as you get home). This will help it to absorb water.

tree hasn’t travelled far or been out of the ground for too long.

What about artificial trees?

Modern artificial trees are incredibly realistic, though Freshly cut Christmas probably won’t have trees provide a problem the natural appearance when it comes to (or the delicious smell) • If possible, place the tree in a cool spot, disposal (though they that real trees offer. away from fires or radiators. Even a are biodegradable). For Generally, the more sunny window can hasten the tree’s some, a great alternative you pay the better decline. Secure it in a correctly sized, could be a Christmas tree an artificial tree sturdy stand and adjust it so it is level. purpose-grown in a pot. will look, and large, Fill the reservoir with water and check Once the festive season is luxurious versions this regularly, topping up as necessary. over the tree can be moved can be expensive. outside in its pot until next The upside is that it year. Each year it will get can be used again a little bigger, and it can be kept for up to three years. and again (thus diminishing its environmental impact) – though consider how easily it Preparing for your treedismantles or folds down, how heavy it is, shopping trip and where and how you will store it. First, write down the dimensions of the space – Which artificial tree? height and width – into which your tree will fit, If you have decided to opt for artificial, the next and take them with you along with a tape measure. stage is to measure for the optimum dimensions. Pack a pair of heavy gloves to protect your hands, There is a huge variety of shapes and sizes on and an old blanket to catch pine needles that fall off offer, including regular, slim and half (flat-back) in the boot of your car. If transporting your tree on trees, while colours range from white to black the roof of the car, take a suitable rope and perhaps and everything in between. You may come a tarpaulin to wrap around the tree for protection. across a choice between PVC needles, which Picking out the best tree are flat and papery, and PE, or polyethylene, needles, which are more realistic though more Look for a symmetrical tree with evenly distributed expensive. Many artificial trees are pre-lit, too, branches. The freshest trees will boast shiny, green with LED fairy lights already wound around needles that don’t drop off if you pull gently on a the branches and ready to plug in, and some branch. Avoid trees with dry or brown needles. are ‘frosted’ with a dusting of artificial snow. Buying direct from a local grower ensures that the

Cut or container?

• Stand the tree in a bucket of water in a cool place until you are ready to position and decorate it.

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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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 nearly 12 years.

wet test. Nothing compares to fully experiencing a Jacuzzi® hot tub to give you the confidence in your chosen model, or the chance to familiarise yourself with its fantastic features.

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.

Many people still believe that buying a hot tub is an expensive purchase, but with a variety of finance options available, enjoying a hot tub in the comfort of your own home has never been so affordable.

The team is made up of Jennifer, Emma, Natalie and Yarna 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.

Visit the team at Webbs Garden Centre and they will happily talk you through the range of flexible plans on offer.

Whether you opt for 0% interest free credit, want to buy now and pay later or prefer to spread the cost over 10 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 first-class 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.

Plus, with the introduction of 4 stunning new hot tubs into our J-400™ Collection, a range known for its elegant styling and superior hydromassage, Jacuzzi® is the trusted brand that can deliver neck-to-toe muscle relief like no other. As part of your research, Jacuzzi® Worcestershire offers the ‘try before you buy’ experience, meaning all you need to do is make an appointment, bring along your swimsuit and enjoy a private

J-485™

And for a little online research, visit www.jacuzziworcestershire.co.uk 56

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

Your SwimLife starts now TM

When only the extraordinary will do

www.jacuzziworcestershire.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Winter colour in the garden

Tips are provided by Ann Winwood, Lealans Garden Centre, Wolverhampton

ell we’re coming to the last 2 months of what can only be described as a horrendous year for everyone. Who knows if we’ll still be open to the general public by the time this is published. Keeping our fingers crossed and with a big slice of luck we’ll still be welcoming everyone through the door, with all the necessary restrictions and one-way systems in place. If there’s another lockdown we intend to trade online and via the phones as we did previously. While it’s mild and there’s no frost in the ground plant bare root hedging and fruit trees, for some winter colour in the garden use shrubs such as Viburnum Fragrans or Bodnantense Dawn, Skimmias, Gaultherias or Leucothoe. There is a wide choice of smaller shrubs available which can be planted into baskets and pots for colour during the winter and then transferred into the garden in the spring when you replant for summer. Continue planting pansies, wallflowers and winter bedding, the sooner it’s done now the better. If we do get a sharp frost winter pansy flowers will droop down but once they thaw out during the day, 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 Christmas house plants. One of the best Christmas plants is the Poinsettia. 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.

In a cooler room the brightly coloured cyclamen is ideal. They need good light at all times. Only water just as the foliage begins to wilt and make sure that any excess water is removed from saucers after 15 minutes. Also consider the Christmas Cherry with its shiny red-orange berries, Christmas cacti with its beautiful shrimp like red, pink, white or lavender flowers. Azaleas will flourish in either a warm or cool room and are very easy to keep, requiring plenty of water. Cacti and succulents have seen a resurgence this year and are ideal presents for encouraging the younger generation into gardening. 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 if you’re planning on planting it in the garden after Christmas.

We would like to wish everyone a Happy Christmas and thank everyone for their support and custom over the last twelve months, we look forward to seeing you all again in 2021.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

Do you need more space at home? 2020 has been the kind of year none of us expected. We have all had to be creative in changing the way we use our homes whether it be for home working, home schooling or the home gym routine with Joe Wicks.

No more will you dread the thought of retrieving the step ladder from the garage or shed, banging through the house and up the stairs to squeeze yourself through that small hatch. Your loft can be the key to giving you that extra space you’ve been longing for over the past few months.

It’s so rewarding to see the look on our customers faces when they see their transformed loft with a typical comment being “Wow! I didn’t realise we had so much space. I wish we had done this years ago.”

Give us a call today for a free quote.

One way to do this is to declutter and ﬁnd a safe space to store only what you want to keep. Reclaim your spare bedroom or garage from all the items stacked up in there. Revealaspace specialise in the lowest cost way of giving you up to 30% more space in your home by ﬁtting a loft ladder and transforming your loft into a well-lit, easily accessible and boarded storage space, usually in less than a day.

And Make It Work For You You FREE already SPACE have the space we make it e r o usable! Bef

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

Beautiful, Reliable, Sustainable

team who are always on hand to answer any questions.

As those of you who have used us before will know, our friendly team are passionate about consistently supplying beautifully dry firewood, from sustainable sources.

As mentioned previously, we will endeavour to look after you, our valued customer. We are confident that regardless of how the Covid 19 pandemic progresses, using the social distancing systems we have in place, we will be able to deliver firewood safely to everyone this winter.

WOODFUEL

As a nation, we are blessed with the most amazing forests and woodlands. All of our timber comes from woodlands with Forestry Commission management plans in place to help make sure trees are replanted and the flora and fauna protected so they can continue to thrive. Managed correctly, these woodlands will continue to provide endless benefits for our health, the environment and local economies. Staying as local as possible, recently we have

had timber arriving from Enville Estate (Stourbridge), Kinver Edge and Apley Estate in Bridgnorth.

Once chopped up, we store our logs inside so they are protected from the elements. This keeps them clean, dry and free of bugs and spiders. The logs are then hand sorted and graded before being delivered by our approachable and knowledgeable

We are well aware of how precious everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time is therefore once an order is placed, a member of the team will contact the customer to arrange a one hour delivery slot.

Suppliers of high quality firewood Shop and buy online

www.blackcountryfirewood.co.uk

or visit us at

Salters Hall Farm Bobbington, Stourbridge, DY7 5DX * pack includes:

1 x Huge Bag Kiln Dried Logs 2 x Nets of Kindling Sticks 1 x 24 Natural Firelighters 1 x Box Matches

Only ÂŁ109

blackcountryfirewood 61

Dave Russon Painter & Decorator

Last UK Posting Dates 2020

Professional Painting & Decorating

Fri 18 Dec 2nd Class and 2nd Class Signed For Mon 21 Dec 1st Class and 1st Class Signed For; Royal Mail Tracked 48 Tues 22 Dec Royal Mail Tracked 24 Wed 23 Dec Special Delivery Guaranteed

◗ Interior & Exterior ◗ Reliable & friendly service ◗ City and Guilds Qualified For a free quote please call

01902 687818 or 07710 485036 Woodbank Road, Sedgley, DY3 3NW

THE WALL HEATH COFFEE C WE ARE NOW OPEN FOR TABLE SERVICE (BOOKINGS ONLY)

WE SERVE: • Freshly made paninis, toasties, sandwiches, salmon bagels and cakes. • Vegan and veggie food available. • Milkshakes, hot drinks, cold drinks, freshly grounded Lavazza coffee, We Are Tea, loose leaf and biodegradable tea bags.

To pre-order take-away food please visit www.wallheathcoffee.co.uk or call: 07887 053054 The Wallheath Coffee Co.

The Wallheath Coffee Co.

16 High Street, Wall Heath DY6 0HB | Open Wednesday to Friday 8.30am-3.30pm. Saturday 9.15am-3pm

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

ÂŁ48 Gas First are based in Kingswinford and specialise in boiler servicing. Gas First are registered with Gas Safe (formerly CORGI).

Need a new boiler? Working in partnership with Plumbzone we can now offer

New A rated boiler Supplied and fitted +VAT* from

ÂŁ1,495

* Terms and Conditions apply. Subject to a full survey.

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

For more information visit www.cinnamoncc.com or to book a show suite visit, please email Jenny at parkfield.haa@cinnamoncc.com or call 01384 465837

Setting a Gold Standard for Care Homes in the West Midlands

Parkfield Grange, a luxury new care home opening in early 2021 in Stourbridge, will set a gold standard for senior care in the West Midlands. The on-site show suite in Hagley Road, is now open to enable prospective residents and their families to view the elegant, highend facilities first hand.

Parkfield Grange will offer 68 large en-suite bedrooms and 6 one-bedroom care suites, all beautifully furnished. The care suites include an en-suite bedroom, lounge and kitchenette and although developed with couples in mind, are ideal for those who are looking for more space and privacy than a traditional care bedroom.

The luxurious facilities will include a restaurant with a head chef preparing delicious and nutritious meals and an option for residents to celebrate a special occasion in a delightful private dining room. There will be vibrant lounges, a café and a bar for socialising over morning coffee, afternoon tea or pre-dinner drinks. Residents will be encouraged to enjoy pamper sessions at the professional inhouse hair & beauty salon and can watch a film or the big match in the purpose-built cinema room. “We are passionate about delivering first class care and creating a stimulating environment to help older people to live happier, healthier and more fulfilled lives and are very much looking forward to showing people around our on-

site show suite,” says Jenny Billingsley, Parkfield Grange, Home Admissions Advisor. Every aspect of Parkfield Grange has been meticulously planned to enhance the living experience for residents. In addition to the impressive facilities, there will be an outstanding level of individual care; for example, a dedicated Events & Activities team at the care home will be responsible for arranging a variety of social activities to mirror the interests and hobbies of the residents. This new care home is part of the award-winning Cinnamon Care Collection which has been voted Top 20 Care Home Group for the last three consecutive years.

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Registered Charity: 512387

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a tough year. For most of us this Christmas time will be a specia l one. But for some, it will be impacted by the pain of living with an incurable illness, or the loss that this can bring. Compton Care is still here to sup port our patients and their families - ou r community. Your support could help make it a Christmas like no other for those who need us most.

Join the region in donating in memory and celebration of your loved one this Christmas and see their name in the special edition of the Express and Star! 66

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

From fashion to toys and tech to books, ďŹ nd the perfect gift for the whole family at your local Compton Care shop this Christmas.

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#ChristmasLikeNoOther www.comptoncare.org.uk

Kinver Rotary Club of Kinver donates £4000 to local food banks. Despite Covid 19’s significant impact on Kinver Rotary Club, who have had to suspend their weekly face to face meetings and cancel all of their traditional fundraising events, resulting in less money being available for good causes locally, the club has managed to donate more than £4,000 to local food banks since the start of the pandemic.

to support local food banks by donating some of the money that they would otherwise have spent at their face to face meetings. This ongoing supply of cash, together with “raids” on other club funds and grants from the organisation’s higher tier “district” level, has resulted in more than £3,500 going to the Black Country Food Bank which is within their area and a further £500 to the Kidderminster Food Bank.

At the earliest stage of Covid 19, the members decided at one of their fortnightly Zoom meetings, Club President Arvind Sharma says: “Covid 19 has affected everybody in one way or another, but the impact on some has forced them to turn to food banks for the first time in their lives. This has resulted in an unprecedented strain on the food banks’ resources. During this time of exceptional need, the Rotary Club of Kinver decided to support the local food banks with some financial assistance. This will continue until the Club is able to resume its usual fund raising activities.”

Dudley South Ladies Luncheon Club At the October meeting Chairman Ann Rogers welcomed 21 members to The Lodge, Wellington Road, Dudley. Because of the COVID threat some members still felt worried about eating out but happily the staff at The Lodge had taken every precaution to keep everyone safe and a very enjoyable time was had by all.

L-R: e Sylvia Cop st e u g with speaker, ns Karen Eva

Following an excellent 3-course lunch the speaker Karen Evans told members about the many years she had spent tracing her ancestry. Her mother was born in St. James, Dudley. The family name Overfield was strictly a Black Country name and easily traced back to 1751. Unfortunately, she discovered “The Ultimate Black Sheep of the family” was a Richard Overfield who had been found guilty of poisoning a baby. He had been taken to Shrewsbury jail and tried in 1824. Only men were allowed to serve on a jury then and, as he was illiterate, was unable to defend himself. He had a public hanging and was then dissected. Not exactly what she had expected to find buried in the Overfield ancestry. 68

At the time of writing this article The Lodge confirmed that permission had been granted to hold future lunches, the next being on Friday 13th November when the speaker will be Kath Evans “Dolly Tubs and Flat Irons” and December Mary Bodfish “From Christmas Past to Christmas Present”. Meetings are held on the second Friday each month 12 pm for 12.30 pm at The Lodge. For more information ring the Chairman on 01384 274388 or the Secretary on 01902 372984.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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Travel Insurance Advice

As thoughts turn to holidays in 2021, the issue of travel insurance has never been more complicated. The disruption from COVID-19 led many travellers to discover their policy wasn’t quite as comprehensive as they assumed. With local lockdowns, travel bans and quarantine an ever-changing situation in recent months, all too many people have found planned trips either impossible or no longer quite what they expected. If you’ve got an annual policy, your first step should be checking the date the policy began. The precise details will vary between insurers, but as a general rule any ordinary policy taken out after the start of April 2020 will almost certainly exclude any claims related to COVID-19. Instead, you’ll need to look for a policy that specifically covers coronavirus. Most such policies will only cover the medical effects, though a few policies will also cover cancellation. Whether you are relying on a pre-April 2020 policy or take out a new one that includes COVID-19

cancellation, check the conditions that will trigger a payout. Some policies will only cover you getting COVID-19 while some will pay out if a family member gets it. Some will only cover a positive diagnosis while others will cover cases where you are told to selfisolate, for example because you’ve been in close contact with somebody who has tested positive. Coronavirus has also brought much greater attention to Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advisories, something that’s normally only been an issue for people travelling to far-off war-torn nations. At the time of writing, the FCO still had a default position advising against any nonessential travel to any country that wasn’t specifically exempted. If you do travel to a country that’s under such an advisory, your

insurance is automatically invalid. However, a travel insurance policy almost certainly won’t cover you cancelling a trip because the FCO advice has changed. If you decide against travel altogether, you can usually cancel an ongoing annual policy and get a refund in proportion to the remaining time, minus any administrative fee. This won’t be allowed if you’ve already made a claim on the policy during the cover period, for example from a previous trip. Despite the increased limitations, travel insurance may soon be even more important in Europe. At the time of writing, the UK and the European Union had yet to agree an extension of the UK’s participation in the European Health Identity Card program beyond the end of 2020. The EHIC isn’t insurance, but rather a mutual agreement that covers European Union countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Anyone with an EHIC is entitled to medical treatment on the same basis as residents of the country where they fall ill. EHIC has never been a substitute for travel insurance, as it doesn’t cover disruption from illness or injury such as having to rebook flights home. However, if the UK does leave EHIC, travelling to the continent without travel insurance could lead to hefty medical bills even for basic treatment.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

THE PERFECT COUNTRY HAVEN AWAY FROM THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE... If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay in the Black Country then you’ll be delighted to find New Wood Farm. Located in Stourton - just outside of Wollaston – New Wood Farm boasts two beautifully renovated self-catering cottages that lie in a tranquil and picturesque countryside setting that’s within easy reach of Stourbridge, Kingswinford and Kinver. The converted farm buildings have been designed to offer guests a cosy ‘home from home’ and have been lovingly restored by owners Linda and Mick Thornton, who were keen to retain their original character whilst creating a stylish and modern interior. Welcoming visitors from all over the world, the couple have long been ensuring that their guests enjoy a wonderful stay. As Linda explains: “We have been hosting the barn for over 20 years and have had guests stay with us from as far away as Australia and America, as well as from all over the UK. We also have a lot of local people stay with us too.” Holiday makers, business people, those visiting relatives and local people needing a place to stay in between a house move, renovation works or even to recuperate after surgery - have all enjoyed what New Wood has to offer. “There are plenty of different reasons why guests choose to stay with us at New Wood but we hope that the reason they return time and time again is

because of the enjoyable stay they’ve had.” The Barn sleeps four people and has two bathrooms and The Stable provides accommodation for two. “The Barn and The Stable both benefit from a wood burning stove,comfy leather sofas and a large TV.” There’s also parking available for up to three cars and free WIFI. “Our gates open onto a bridle path that leads down to the Staffordshire and Worcestershire canal, with no passing traffic which is great for walkers and cyclists.” Linda and Mick have worked hard to pay attention to those little details that make all the difference; there are flower boxes and planters outside the cottages, as well as a very unique addition in The Barn. “We’ve got a Wurlitzer juke box containing many vinyl records from the 1960’s and 1970’s in The Barn that many of our guests love,” adds Linda. With so much to offer, it’s no surprise that guests at New Wood Farm can’t wait to book their next stay.

For bookings or enquiries please call 01384 390520 or email: enquiries@blackcountrystays.com New Wood Farm, Hyperion Road, Stourton, Nr Stourbridge, DY7 6SJ

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www.blackcountrystays.com

Christmas 2020

FOODIE It’s beginning to taste a lot like Christmas...

If we deserve one thing this Christmas, it’s indulging in our favourite festive food. Whether it’s sitting down to a mouthwatering roast dinner, or snuggling up to a feel-good Christmas movie with a mince pie and hot chocolate. No matter what our tastes and celebration styles look like, none of our Christmas holidays would be the same without the seasonal food and drink we enjoy with them. Our plans this year may be a little different, and while there may be some things we’ll have to skip, enjoying our favourite dishes and tipples shouldn’t have to be one of them. Make sure to keep supporting your local businesses, while simultaneously satisfying all your seasonal cravings.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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 IN STYLE AT THE PERFECT VENUE TO DINE 6 course traditional or Bengali style Christmas Day Lunch 5 course festive menu served from 1st-24th December PLEASE BOOK EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT Rafique Miah welcomes you to the longest established Indian Restaurant in Wombourne Village, serving sumptuous Bangladeshi Cuisine for over 30 years.

Strictly telephone bookings only for the restaurant “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 or: 01902 324437 Open from 5.30pm including Bank Holidays facebook.com/wombourne.tandoori

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

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CINNAMON STARS Makes: 20 Ready: 1 hour, plus chilling and cooling Perfect for a festive sweet treat or a lovely edible Christmas gift these spiced star cookies can be kept in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Ingredients

remaining mixture to make a very stiff dough. Chill in the fridge for 1 hour.

2 medium egg whites 175g icing sugar 250g finely ground roasted hazelnuts 50g mixed peel, finely chopped 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Method 1. Using an electric handheld mixer, whisk the egg whites in a clean, grease-free bowl until holding stiff peaks. Stir in the icing sugar until thoroughly combined then continue to whisk until thick and glossy.

3. Preheat the oven to 140C, 120C fan, gas mark 1. Line 2 baking sheets with baking paper. Roll the dough out on a surface heavily dusted with icing sugar to a 1cm thickness. 4. Using a 5cm star-shaped cookie cutter stamp out about 20 stars, re-rolling the dough as needed until it is all used up. Place the stars on the baking sheet, well-spaced apart. Spread a little of the reserved egg white and icing sugar mixture on top of each star. 5. Bake for 25 minutes or until the cookies are still white and crisp on top but slightly soft underneath. Turn off the oven, open the oven door and leave the cookies to dry out for 15 minutes then transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely.

2. Remove 40g of this mixture and set aside. Fold the hazelnuts, mixed peel and cinnamon into the

TIP

Dust the cookie cutter with icing sugar frequently to prevent the mixture sticking.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

WINTER BRAISED LAMB SHANKS

lamb shanks are cut from the end of a leg of lamb and are ideal for slow cooking. serve with creamy mash Potato for a really warming winter suPPer.

Method

Serves: 2 (see tip) Ready in: 3 hours

1. Preheat the oven to 170C, 150C fan, gas mark 3. Heat the oil and butter in a large frying pan. Add the lamb shanks and fry for 3-4 minutes until browned all over, turning frequently. Transfer the lamb to an ovenproof dish.

Ingredients 1 tbsp olive oil 15g butter 2 large lamb shanks 2 leeks, trimmed, washed and sliced 600ml vegetable stock 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 2 tbsp tomato puree 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks 3 fresh rosemary sprigs Salt and freshly ground black pepper 300g chestnut mushrooms, halved Freshly chopped parsley, to garnish Steamed green beans, to serve

2. Add the leeks to the frying pan and fry for 5 minutes then pour in the stock and Worcestershire sauce and stir in the tomato puree. Bring to the boil then add the carrots, reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. 3. Spoon the stock and vegetables around the lamb and add the rosemary sprigs. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and cover tightly with a lid or foil and cook for 2 hours. 4. Remove the dish from the oven and stir in the mushrooms. Return to the oven and cook for a further 30-40 minutes, uncovered, until the lamb is very tender and the liquid has reduced slightly. Serve garnished with freshly chopped parsley and with steamed green beans.

TIP

As a general guide each lamb shank will serve one adult, however if you use large lamb shanks this recipe will stretch to serve a family of two adults and two children. www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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Wollaston Beauty Clinic

RELAXED CHRISTMAS SHOPPING In Safe Open Surroundings

Celebrating their 35th Birthday, this awardwinning salon is once again showcasing the exquisite Espa Christmas Gift Collection “Festive Retreats”. Shop for your Christmas gifts in a relaxed and safe environment this season, and avoid the shopping centre crowds. The Espa gift collection always has something for everyone, with huge savings you may even be tempted to pick out a gift for yourself! This year the collection evokes a return to home. Celebrating the festivities that we have missed over the past few months, the Festive Retreat gift collection affirms the realisation that home truly is a feeling, not a place. There truly is no place like home at Christmas.

long lasting ESPA the home fragrance Complete candles and reed diffusers. Retreat True to their Collection heritage, Espa £180 have included worth £356 their signature “Winter Spice” home fragrance once again this season, a firm favourite with all Espa fans. A scent to conjure up all that is Christmas and set the stage in readiness for your festivities. They will be showcasing all the big names in the beauty world from now on through to the main event. Espa, Environ and Dermalogica skin care. Orly Nails. Advanced Nutrition Programme and Jane Iredale makeup. There really are gifts for everyone, even the man in your life.

ESPA Candles from £15

ESPA Keep Me Close Kit £30 worth £52

r Return To You e g a s s a M s t o o R

From perfect stocking fillers, or secret Santa for friends and work colleagues alike and starting from £12 through to luxurious gifts for loved ones, in beautiful keepsake emerald green boxes and vegan bags you would use again and again, it won’t be difficult to select the ideal present for everyone on your shopping list, from an array of natural skincare products, to

#shoplocal

It’s not all about gifts for others, throughout November and December you can book in for a limitededition winter massage; “Return To Your Roots”. This treatment has been designed especially to restore your body and mind, allowing you to be filled with self-love and kindness. Let the stresses and strains of the cold winter months ahead dissolve away. This unique massage is not to be missed.

#shopsmall

until Available 2020 31st Dec

62 55mins: £ #supportyourvillage

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

FESTIVE RETREAT T h e E S PA G i f t C o l l e c t i o n

Plus

Limited Edition Massage "Return To Your Roots"

ÂŁ62

Wollaston Beauty Clinic where relaxing & pampering is essential

153 Bridgnorth Road Wollaston DY8 3NU 01384 393305

www.wollastonbeautyclinic.co.uk Terms and conditions apply. Massage not available to purchase with voucher payment or beauty point

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk redemption and must be paid for at time of booking. Available until 31st December 2020.

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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Wollaston Beauty Clinic

Christmas Gift Ideas

£45

(worth £65)

from £45 ADVANCED NUTRITION PROGRAMME SUPPLEMENTS

ESPA Gents Essentials

£55

(worth £109)

£36

ESPA Sweet Dreams Collection ESPA Hands Made With Love

£40

£45

(worth £45)

ESPA Winter Spice Diffuser JANE IREDALE Starry Eyes Mascara Set

£181

(worth £233)

153 Bridgnorth Rd, Wollaston Stourbridge DY8 3NU | 01384 393305

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ENVIRON Skin Essential Gift Set town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

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HAIR LOSS & ALOPECIA TREATMENT at Symétrie STOP LOSING HAIR WITH XL HAIR® HAIR XL Hair® is a revolutionary new treatment it helps treat hair thinning, hair loss, baldness and Menopausal hair loss. XL Hair® stops hair loss and stimulates growth of new hair follicles. It is used to treat androgenic alopecia, and hair loss in MEN and WOMEN to create fuller thicker hair. The procedure uses a ‘Mesotherapy Gun’ which provides painless, precise penetration of a unique serum made of hyaluronic acid, peptides, amino acids, growth factors, vitamins and antioxidants. Promoting circulation and stimulation of the hair follicles. If you’re concerned about hair loss call 01384 886 646 to arrange a FREE Hair Clinic consultation.

NEW TO SYMÉTRIE Hair loss is a cosmetically and psychologically distressing problem It is important to diagnose early and start treatment immediately. XL Hair® is a new opportunity for the treatment of different baldness patterns and hair loss and it’s now available from Symétrie. Our nurse administered treatment repairs and stimulates hair growth, increasing the thickness of hair by improving skin nutrition and skin defence against internal and external stress and damage factors. Added to this is the delivery of copper peptide to the base of follicles, which helps strengthen hair while stimulating hair follicles to produce a strong hair shaft, help blood circulation in the scalp and revitalize hair follicles.

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

WHEN YOU STEP INTO SYMÉTRIE YOU KNOW YOU ARE IN SAFE HANDS 144 Hagley Road, Oldswinford, Stourbridge DY8 2JD 98

www.symetrie.co.uk

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

medical aesthetic clinic

e k i l Feel You!

OP TR EN F EA OR TM A EN LL TS

NURSE ADM I N I S T E R E D AESTHETIC T R E AT M E N T S PROFHILO - SKIN REJUVENATION XL HAIR® - HAIR LOSS TREATMENT FINE LINES & WRINKLES CHIN & JAWLINE CONTOURING ACNE AND ACNE SCARRING FACIAL REJUVENATION LIP ENHANCEMENT CHEEK FILLERS PIGMENTATION DERMALUX® LED UNDER CHIN FAT REDUCTION plus many, many more!

SYMETRIE.C O . U K symetrieaestheticclinic

symetrieaestheticclinic

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C O R O N AV I R U S - YO U R S A F E T Y I S O U R TO P P R I O R I T Y W E A LWAY S P R OV I D E T H E H I G H E S T L E V E L O F S A F E T Y A N D C A R E I N O U R C L I N I C

144 HAGLEY ROAD, OLDSWINFORD, STOURBRIDGE, DY8 2JD CALL 01384 886 646 TO BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Classy Rags Casual & Designer Wear

HUGE SELECTION OF FABULOUS NEW CASUAL WEAR nOw in StOck

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ALL CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES PURCHASED when yOu pReSent thiS AdveRt thROughOut nOvemBeR 2020. *Not valid against sale items, no photocopies and not in conjunction with any other offers.

627 Bearwood Road, Smethwick, Birmingham B66 4BL 102

0121 434 3727 www.classyragsbirmingham.co.uk town & village life magazine

| november/december 2020

SALE NOW ON! MANY ITEMS OF SALE STOCK WITH UP TO 50% OFF incLuding ALL mOtheR OF the BRide wedding OutFitS, hAtS And FAScinAtORS classy Rags for celebrity inspired clothes or just the wardrobe essentials, catering for teens right through to the mature woman, sizes 8 to 22. French & ItalIan casual DesIgner Wear shoes evenIng Wear Bags accessorIes www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Extended eye examinations Latest cutting edge eye scanning technology Latest covid-19 safe guidelines followed New designer collections and special offers 39 Bridgnorth Road, Compton WV6 8AF: T 01902 750325 34 Windmill Bank, Wombourne WV5 9JD: T 01902 895909 w taylorbiddleopticians.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Digestive problems and how to overcome them By Jackie Mitchell

loating, nausea, abdominal pain, constipation and diarrhoea. These are all common digestive problems that we all experience and usually they can be treated with ‘over the counter’ medicines. Some conditions might be as a result of overindulging or eating the wrong food, but with Christmas round the corner, what can we do to avoid them? With more of us working from home, it’s all too easy to eat a rushed sandwich in front of the computer, skip lunch altogether or grab a snack while preparing the kids’ tea. How you eat is a major consideration, as eating too quickly and not swallowing food properly can lead to digestive problems. As Roberta Baldo, nutritional therapist from Baldo & Mason says “Eat slowly. This allows time for the signals from the senses to get to the brain and stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, muscular contractions and other processes necessary for digestion, before the food arrives.”

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Digestive problems often settle down by themselves, but sometimes symptoms persist that could indicate other conditions, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). According to The IBS Network, this affects over twelve million people in the UK. Classic symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, change in bowel habits, diarrhoea and constipation. Alison Reid, CEO, The IBS Network, says “It is a very individual condition and symptoms will vary for each person.

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Other symptoms can include lethargy, nausea and backache. There is no specific cause for IBS but the most common risk factors are a gastroenteritis attack, a traumatic or upsetting event and courses of powerful antibiotics.” Self-management is the key to living well with IBS, says Alison. “Once you have a better understanding of what is happening in your body you will be able to explore what treatments work best for you. These include dietary and lifestyle changes, psychological therapies and medications – see your GP or pharmacist for advice. These may be used together or on their own depending on the possible cause and severity of the condition.” Managing general lifestyle and diet is vitally important when dealing with IBS, says Dr Simon Smale, consultant gastroenterologist and clinical director, Manchester University NHS Trust. “Small meals eaten often rather than one big meal at the end of the day,” he says. “Ensure you don’t drink too much caffeine and alcohol as they can have dire effects. If the condition is primarily diarrhoea, avoid the following foods – cauliflower, sprouts (yes even at Christmas), onions, garlic, chewing gum and diet drinks. For constipation sufferers, ensure you have enough fluid and eat enough fruit and vegetables.” The festive season approaches so how can IBS sufferers ensure they can enjoy Christmas dinner and reduce the risk of an IBS flare up? The IBS Network suggests identifying your triggers (foods that lead to a flare up), choosing food and alcohol carefully, managing stress levels over Christmas and exercising. With some careful forward planning you will really be able to enjoy Christmas mealtimes. Happy Christmas!

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION www.baldoandmason.com www.theibsnetwork.org

town & village life magazine | november/december 2020

VARICOSE VEINS AND COVID

Your safety is our priority.

The COVID pandemic has been an extremely worrying time for most people and we took the decision to close The Vein Clinic in March as the pandemic took hold. We reopened our doors in July but have changed our practices to ensure the safety of both our patients and staff. The number of clinics held per day at the Wolverhampton Nuffield have been reduced to lower the footfall in the hospital and extra time has been put aside between patients to allow for cleaning of the rooms. Facemasks and hand sanitisation are mandatory, and you will be asked a number of COVID screening questions when you report to reception.

leg ulcers. We promise to make your assessment and treatment as risk free for you as possible. During a consultation, an ultra sound scan will be performed to detect the source of the problem and from the size and position, indicate the required treatment. Recognised by all major medical insurers we also accept self-referrals for self-paying patients. For further information or to schedule a consultation visit www.simonhobbsveins.co.uk or telephone (01902) 793216.

Modern day varicose veins treatments are performed under local anaesthetic as a ‘walk-in, walk-out’ procedure. Procedures are performed in a dedicated treatment room suite and many patients are in and out in under 2 hours. The risk of contracting COVID whilst undergoing treatment is extremely low. Whilst cosmetic varicose veins treatments can be safely delayed it is important not to delay assessment if your veins are causing significant symptoms, or complications such as bleeding, eczema, phlebitis, brown skin discolouration or

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.

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

• 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: 01902 793216 info@simonhobbsveins.co.uk www.simonhobbsveins.co.uk Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital Wood Road | Tettenhall | Wolverhampton | WV6 8LE

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PAYCARE IN THE COMMUNITY

NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER 2020

A VIRTUAL APPROACH TO MENTAL HEALTH One of the huge shifts in 2020 has been organisations embracing technology more than ever – but another big change has been the wider recognition that the wellbeing of the workforce is of absolute paramount importance. That’s why the Paycare Wellbeing team has been working hard behind the scenes to develop an online training course (the virtual version of the face-to-face Mental Health First Aider course oﬀered pre-lockdown), so more organisations than ever can ensure they have key people trained to spot the signs of those who might be struggling, listen eﬀectively during a crisis, and signpost colleagues

towards appropriate resources. In the meantime, Wellbeing Manager Kerry B Mitchell has also been leading a series of free hour-long e-clinics focused around topics such as suicide, kindness as a chemical, and aligning support with key awareness events on the mental health agenda, such as World Mental Health Day.

Visit www.paycare.org/mental-health-ﬁrst-aid/ to ﬁnd out more about Mental Health First Aid England accredited training, and the free online sessions.

TOP TIPS FOR TIP-TOP EYESIGHT switching the TV oﬀ that bit earlier can really make a diﬀerence.

More of us than ever are working long hours looking at computer screens and using our time-out to watch television or use social media (in fact, at the height of lockdown we were spending an average of six hours and 25 minutes a day watching TV and online content), so taking care of our eyesight is vital.

2. 20-20-20: If you are using a computer for any length of time, every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It will give your eye muscles a much-needed break.

For 2020’s National Eye Health Week, Paycare teamed up with Helen Brown, Campaigns and Grants Manager with our community partners Beacon Centre, to share some top tips about good eye health:

3. Check your lighting: Whether you’re working from home or the oﬃce, don’t sit in the dark. Make sure you don’t have any lighting directly behind your screen either – it will just make it harder to read.

1. Take breaks from the screen: Putting your phone down for a couple of nights a week or

4. Positioning: Your screen should be 18-24 inches away from you and just below your eye level.

5. Text size: If you are squinting to read the text, just increase the size. You can also have a play with the contrast to change the background and text colours to ﬁnd what works best for you.

Visit www.beaconvision.org for more information about the support and advice that our friends at this amazing charity provide to visually impaired people across the region.

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WORK/LIFE BALANCE Working from home continues to be recommended for the next few months – and could be the new norm for far longer, with around 60% of us expected to work from home more regularly long-term. While there are many advantages in terms of freedom and ﬂexibility, there is a danger we’re all forgetting how to fully disconnect from our work. It’s easy to answer emails throughout the evening and weekends, forget to eat lunch because you’re mid-task, or start feeling fatigued from too much screen time with backto-back video calls and tasks.

We’d love to share with you some suggested ways to get into a good routine and help divide your home and work lives, even if your house is now your workplace: Regular breaks through the day, and ensuring you get enough of a break between work shifts. Getting up for a stretch or a walk (even if it’s just around the block) will make all the diﬀerence. Make sure colleagues and clients know when they can reach you, and when you’ll be switching oﬀ. Help yourself stick to your work hours, perhaps by setting up a

speciﬁc work station or changing between formal clothes and casual attire to make the distinction. Set up a post-walk routine such as a walk, phone call or friend, or taking part in a hobby to ensure you stop and turn oﬀ your computer in time. Adjust your settings so work emails don’t come through to your personal phone when you’re not working. Emergencies and overtime are sometimes necessary, but should be the exception not the rule. Remember you’re a person, not just a job, and you deserve time and care too!

LUXURY PARTNERSHIP CONTINUES The partnership between Paycare and iconic fragrance brand Molton Brown continued this autumn as Staﬀ and Policyholders were given access to a new range of discounted luxury products. An exclusive range of discounts, encouraging Policyholders’ rest and relaxation, was oﬀered on a range of collections, including Christmas goodies, for the second time this year. It all began when Paycare CEO Kevin Rogers met Molton Brown’s Sarah White from Corporate Sales by chance at a prelockdown football match in Scotland.

The discounts were intended to help Paycare People and their Policyholders relax, unwind and take care of their own wellbeing during what has been a diﬃcult year for everyone. Those who missed out needn’t worry – there could very well be future partnership events happening in 2021! Dates will be announced through the Paycare newsletter and the blog, found at www.paycare.org/about-paycare/blog/

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PAYCARE, PLEASE VISIT WWW.PAYCARE.ORG OR CALL 01902 371 000 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Award winning education is closer than you think. Claudine Jones leads a team of staff to support and work with families to ensure every child gets the care and individual attention that they need. Support includes a dedicated, expert pastoral team, School Counsellor and annual adolescent mental health tracking using the latest digital tools.

Academic excellence

The academic achievements of the students speak for themselves. All teachers are experts in their own academic disciplines, trained and experienced professionals who love their subjects as much as they enjoy teaching students.

olverhampton Grammar School is an extraordinary school. Founded in 1512, it’s one of the oldest schools in the country, within easy access of the wider West Midlands, Staffordshire and Shropshire thanks to flexible school bus links. If you’ve never visited the stunning 25-acre campus, you can register at any time for a virtual open event or individual tour. Simply visit www.wgs.org.uk to register for events that are taking place across the Autumn and Winter. Just like the School’s approach to education, the open events are tailored specifically for you with flexible opportunities to join in and meet our staff and students. The events include everything from a guided, virtual tour to an opportunity to hear from teaching and specialist staff about our curriculum; how we use technology to life in the Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form and our reading and library services too. You’ll also learn about our exceptional extra-curricular programme – the largest available locally.

Small class sizes and space for individual tuition enables the teachers to get to know each and every child. Wolverhampton Grammar School also offers a tailored and individual approach to UCAS and Careers support and students can expect the very best preparation possible when it comes to life after school. Our examinations and Sixth Form team ensure every student is supported with the very best support possible to ensure students make the right choice for their next step.

Life outside the classroom

The school offers over 100 extra-curricular clubs – the largest range available from any school in the area. Everything from Political Forums, Technology clubs, Debating, Warhammer to Climbing, Cooking and Gardening. Residential trips begin as early as Year 3 and from Year 7, all children have the opportunity to travel to Europe, culminating in a choice of worldwide expeditions for older students.

First priority is the happiness of your child Children at Wolverhampton Grammar School receive pastoral care like nowhere else – that’s because happy children do well, thrive, and leave the school with excellent exam results and the confidence to embrace whatever opportunities come their way. Your child will never feel alone at Wolverhampton Grammar School. Assistant Head of Pastoral Care,

Interested to learn more?

Simply visit the website to register www.wgs.org.uk for an open event or to book a school tour, alternatively please contact the Admissions team at Wolverhampton Grammar School telephone 01902 422939 or email admissions@wgs-sch.net 118

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A trip down

Memory Lane Audi Ball 2018

Staff Christmas party 2019

Lisa’s Hen party 2015

Everyone’s social calendar has been empty lately but that doesn’t mean that we can’t bring you some of the highlights from our social scene pages from over the last few years. We’ve selected our favourite pictures from our most photographed couple, Royston Blythe and Nick Malenko. And, there’s plenty of fabulous photos to see, featuring glitzy events, celebrations, weddings, functions and the couple’s own Blessing by Cheshire housewife Dawn Ward.

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In fact, there’s even been a visit to Buckingham Palace along the way, when Royston and Nick - along with several of their young stylists - were invited to participate in the Coronation Festival, donating their supreme hairdressing skills to style the event’s fashion show exhibit.

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Charles and Sam’s wedding 2019

House party 2018

Nick and Royston’s blessing 2017

Buckingham Palace 2013

House party 2014

Staff Christmas party 2016 Beverley Knight’s charity event 2019 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Self Help

for Sore Knees

By Dr Daisy Mae

this often leads to a significant improvement of symptoms. Much can be achieved by losing small amounts. Aim for 5% of your current body weight.

Pain relief Paracetamol can be taken with non -steroidal antiInflammatory (NSAID) drugs such as ibuprofen, diclofenac and naproxen. NSAIDS reduce inflammation in the arthritic joint. Take them regularly – don’t wait for the pain to build-up. An NSAID gel rubbed into the joint may be helpful. Take advice from your GP if you suffer with gastritis. Your GP will discuss other medication options with you:

Ten million UK residents currently suffer from osteoarthritis (OA), and half of these have arthritis in their knees. Osteoarthritis is a serious and disabling disease and with an increasingly elderly population and the huge increase in obesity, numbers of OA sufferers are set to rise.

What is osteoarthritis? When you bend a joint, the two bone surfaces rub against each other. Cartilage pads on the ends of your bones cushion the movement. With OA, there is gradual joint destruction, the cartilage becomes thinned, the joint surface is roughened and debris collects within the joint space. Weakened muscles and ligaments mean the joint is not adequately supported. 122

OA causes OA is a ‘wear and tear’ arthritis, associated with your genetics, ageing and obesity. It’s more common in females and is associated with other chronic diseases such as diabetes. An accident such as damage to or a ruptured cruciate ligament will also increase the risk of developing OA.

OA treatments: Exercise Exercise is very important, even when your knees are hurting. Keeping the joint mobile reduces stiffness and improves the circulation. Not using your knees worsens the problem as it encourages the cartilage to thin and soften. Exercise reduces chronic inflammation – a metabolic process that exacerbates cartilage breakdown. Medical studies confirm that weight loss and exercise produce significant benefits. These have been proven to reduce pain, improve knee function and mobility.

Lose weight Losing weight may seem an impossible task. However, it can be done and studies prove

• Drugs called COX-2 inhibitors, such as celecoxib, are very effective anti-inflammatories. Sometimes opiates such as co-codamol are advised. • Capsaicin cream can be applied to the knee joint. • A steroid can be injected directly into the joint. Steroids are powerful anti-inflammatories and can be very effective. • Alternatively, try Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). • The efficacy of hyaluronic acid injections has not been substantially proven but may have benefits for some.

Alternative therapies Glucosamine, curcumin, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids all appear safe, but there is a lack of medical evidence for their efficacy.

Surgery The NHS no longer recommends arthroscopy for arthritic knees. Research studies found this failed to improve symptoms for most patients. However, you may be referred for a knee replacement if your symptoms are severe. Knee replacement surgery is highly effective and greatly improves symptoms, mobility and quality of life.

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BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC It was with this stinging refrain - “Whatever you do, don’t kerb the wheels” - still ringing in my ears that I set off from Crewe. For today only I was to be the proud driver of the sublime Bentley Continental GTC: a daunting task, given that this vehicle comes with a price tag (£175,890 before options, of which there are many) that is more commonly associated by common folk like me with estate agency window displays. Since a stiff drink is out of the question, a deep breath is required before I set off: despite what Bentley says (apparently a key part of the Continental GT’s development ethos was that it could be driven every day) I really must refrain from clipping the massive 20”

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alloys that protrude mischievously from the rubber, because the cost of a refurb is, to me, a serious setback; whereas, a replacement is a small salary. However, fond as I am of turning a negative into a positive I make good use of my time sitting still to admire the cabin (it is a symphony of perfection: seats, trim, dash and tech all unify into a glorious example of what is still today possible by craftspeople at the top of their game; AI may be coming but I’m still plugging for us underdogs), before I lower the roof and begin squinting in the autumnal sunshine. So much of the Bentley experience has to do with refinement and cosseting drivers from the grind

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endured by others, who are not fortunate enough to be at the wheel of the Bentley - and, of course, luxury and refinement in the GTC knows no bounds - however, I still maintain that dropping the top is a must on any convertible (especially when enjoying a late September’s mini-heatwave), since nothing makes motoring better than being immersed in the elements: the smells and sounds (not much engine or exhaust noise in ‘Comfort’ mode, surprisingly, given the titanic 542bhp 4 litre twin-turbocharged V8 that sits close-by; ‘Sport’ is better) alone make for a singular experience but in the Bentley, everything is better about driving - may be, even, better about life itself. If you think all of the above is tantamount to twoddle then, be reassured, when the top is up in the GTC, you might as well be in a hard-top. Also understand that there is myriad gadgets and gizmos to make life utterly fulfilled in both the least (seatbelts are proffered to both driver and passenger, as if being presented by an

electronic butler) and most dramatic way (0-60 mph is demolished in 3.9 seconds/top speed is 207mph and it is incredibly capable and comfortable at higher speeds when open-top). Yet forgetting Top Trump figures for a moment you will instead notice that it is a surfeit of torque - which is available to your right foot at almost any time - and the multi-adjustable airsuspension that makes this car a classic, low-speed cruiser - on almost every surface, on almost every day of the week. And after I ran across the fourth tractor on my journey, I became even more convinced of this. Producing a convertible that is as good as its hard-top sibling for just a relatively small premium of around £15,000 makes a strong argument for going topless and, while I do take issue with this being put forward as a ‘daily-driver’, it is an extremely usable tool despite its enormous size and weight. And, of course, despite its alloy wheels - which, happily, made it back intact.

Article by Rob Taylor

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Grand Secures £1,187,530 From Dcms Cultural Recovery Fund #Hereforculture

The Black Country and is a vital lifeline to those communities.

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre has received the news that they have been successful in securing £1,187,530 from the Government’s Cultural Recovery Fund. In July 2020, the DCMS announced there was a £1.57 billion fund available for Culture and Heritage venues up and down the country in response to the Covid-19 Pandemic which would be administered by the Arts Council. Wolverhampton Grand Theatre submitted its application at the end

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of August and has been awaiting the outcome with anticipation. CEO and Artistic Director Adrian Jackson said, “It is with huge delight but also relief to share this outcome with you today. The Grand is the only large-scale theatre in Wolverhampton and

“We will now carefully execute the business and creative plans proposed to ensure we are able to re-open at full capacity, next year. We are still unclear when this will be, however we are looking at other opportunities to open in the short term with social distancing in place. “The Grand’s Outreach work will continue to be a high priority, along with making the venue Covid safe for audiences to return. “I would like to thank the DCMS and Arts Council England for recognising the fantastic work we do at the Grand Theatre which with this support can now continue.” This year The Grand received £30,000 from The Arts Council for community and education work and £25,000 from the Local Authority to assist with overhead costs. Prior to this, the theatre had become self-sufficient and had not received any public money since 2016. The charity had been making a surplus year on year and this was re-invested back into the charitable work of the organisation.

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Aesthetic Clinics Symetrie Aesthetic Clinic

Appliances - Electrical & Gas Capital Appliance Centre

Estate Agents Berriman Eaton Fashion - Retail Classy Rags

15-17 102/103

Bathrooms Roman Bathrooms

20/21

Beauty Salons & Wellbeing Heaven Skin Care Wollaston Beauty

Financial Advisors Albrighton Wealth Management

18/19

88-93 85/97

Beds & Bedroom Furniture Cousins Dreamland Woodrobes

Fireplaces & Stoves Flaming Fires Wolverhampton Fireplaces

22/23 25

130/131 30/31 26/27

Blinds – Curtains – Shutters Castle Blinds Total Sewing

37 41

Boiler Service & Installations Gas First

Firewood Black Country Firewood Fitness & Leisure Centres South Staffs Leisure

Funeral Directors Hickton Family Funeral Directors

Butchers Poxons

Furniture & Furnishings Cousins

Care Homes Parkfield Grange The Woodlands

64/65 12/13

110/111

Floristry Supplies & Craft Products Country Baskets 53

Building & Maintenance Contractors Three Pines 8/9 80/81

Galleries & Gift Shops Stourbridge Galleries

69 130/131 48/49

Hospices Compton Care Hot Tubs Jacuzzi at Webbs of Wychbold Jewellers Rudells The Jewellers

Loft Ladders / loft Boarding Revealaspace

Opticians Taylor Biddle Painters & Decorators Dave Russon Patrick Bellew Personal Stylist House of Colour

Gardening & Landscaping Lealans Garden Centre

Solicitors MFG Solicitors

54 55

Coffee Shops Wall Heath Coffee Co Dentistry Willows

2/3

Hairdressers Euphoria Royston Blythe

Education Wolverhampton Grammar

119

Health Care Cover Paycare

Puzzle Answers Quick Crossword:

Word Search:

125 41 95 86/87 116/117

100/101

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Zero Dry Time

Haberdashery / Alterations Total Sewing

62 39

77 73

Self-Catering Cottages New Wood Farm

Christmas Trees Highgate Farm

107

Restaurants & Pubs Halfpenny Green Wine Estate Wombourne Tandoori

Golf Clubs Oxley Park

97/132

Lighting Lighting R Us

Garage Doors Garolla

Carpets/Flooring – Supply & Fit ND Walters 34/35

Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit Dayrooms 29 Roman Bathrooms 20/21

Carpentry & Construction Winterdene Carpentry & Construction 47 39

66/67

Tiles & Interiors Tile Choice Vein Clinics Simon Hobbs Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Wine Estate

115 7 109 77

Windows, Doors & Conservatories De Rosa Installations 33 Hayley Windows 25

Sudoku: Hidden phrase: At Christmas, all roads lead home. Marjorie Holmes

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FURNITURE

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FURNITURE

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