Town & Village Magazine - September/October 2014

TOWn & VILLAGE LIFE Magazine

September/October 2014

TOWN & VILLAG E

Win a Black Country Specials Meal for four people at Bravaccio’s Win Tickets for Thriller Live at The Grand Theatre Win a Sunday Lunch for four people at The Village Hotel

LIFE MA GA Z INE

September/Oc tober 2014

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

Local Magazine delivered to 15,500 Selected Homes and Businesses

kingfisher the

bar club room

A449 Kidderminster Road Wall Heath West Midlands DY6 0EN T: 01384 686000 E: kingfisher@inndividual.co.uk W: www.thekingfisher.club

LIVEMUSIC

WHAT’S ON

SEPTEMBER 2014

FRIDAY 05

SATURDAY 06

FRIDAY 12

SATURDAY 13

BORN IN THE 80’S

THE REALISTICS

RHIANNA

ROBBIE WILLIAMS

FRIDAY 19

SATURDAY 20

FRIDAY 26

SATURDAY 27

DEXTER

MICHAEL BUBLE

JADE & JP

BLIND LEMON

OCTOBER 2014 FRIDAY 03

FRIDAY 10

SATURDAY 04

SATURDAY 11

FRIDAY 17

OLLIE MURS LIQUOR & POKER RED HOT CHILLI PEPPERS FUNKCONNECTION SOUL SURVIVORS SATURDAY 18

BLUES BROTHERS

FRIDAY 24

COMING SOON CHECK WEBSITE

SATURDAY 25

FRIDAY 31

FANCY DRESS DISCO GLAMBUSTER

HALLOWEEN NAVI +

A L L B O O K I N G C O R R E C T A T T I M E O F P R I N T. C H E C K W E B S I T E F O R D E T A I L S .

02

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Hello Readers, Summer is now all but a thing of the past. To quote the Looney Tunes slogan - and at great risk of bringing to mind one of the most irritating accompanying jingles ever - ‘That’s All Folks.’

Right now we’ve all returned from holiday. The kids are grumpy about returning to school. Match of the Day is back on TV and it’s raining again.

Ever feel you are trapped on an endless treadmill, forced to endure monotony akin to that of a pet goldfish? Well if that’s you, then you better break from the norm and dive into another fine edition of Town and Village Life - we’re simply the best. No Tina Turner connotations intended.

First things first: your home. It’s an oft-neglected area during the sunny season but now’s the time to spruce it up before Christmas makes you dump a spruce in your living room. In this edition we major in soft-furnishings; fireplaces; home extensions and kitchen and bathroom re-design. And how to reduce your energy bills with Green Source Renewable Energy Systems.

Second on the list: socialising. The Kingfisher restaurant review is something to get your teeth into; social scene pages as well; and there’s also venue ideas for your Christmas party and wedding. But before it’s time to talk turkey you’ll want to get in shape, so why not peruse our fashion, beauty and health sections?

There’s a guide to dental implants, orthodontics, easing joint pain with H20 Physio and weight loss with 3-D Lipo. As well as advice on protecting and preserving your skin from the ravages of summer sun. Not to mention gardening advice from the most glamorous gardener since Charlie Dimmock Martina Stiffelova, owner of MDK Garden Services.

Everything and more; that’s what Town and Village Life is for.

Enjoy your read...

Geoff

TOWN & VILLAGE

LIFE M AGA Z I N E

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

Advertising enquiries

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

Editorial/What’s On information

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

Contents sedgley: A hole-in-one

8

louise Presley turner – life coach

10

Complete your room with the perfect fireplace

12

Crosswords and puzzles

14

Win a meal for four at the Village hotel

20

recipe of the month

22

Win a black Country specials meal for four at bravaccio’s

26

Author A.g smith returns to kinver library

28

beacon centre for the blind step off Dudley castle

30

let your imagination run free and transform your home

34

grand theatre competition

36

An insight into burma

40

stourbridge rugby Club

42

gardening with Ann Winwood

48

music concerts planned for stourbridge

50

five of the biggest mistakes in business

52

grapes and gifts galore at the Vineyards

54

food review at the kingfisher

62/63

tasting victory at Wolverhampton racecourse

66

Weddings – the reception

68

hair and makeup for your wedding day

72

first look at autumn fashion social scene

82/83 98-100

kinver 10k runners asked “are you tough enough” 104 golf tip bmW xDrive – in perfect condition for imperfect conditions

108 110/111

skoda rapid – A family affair

112

Answers to crossword & puzzles

114

Congratulations to: Winners of the Top Hat competition at The Grand Theatre Mrs Iris Hayward, Stourton Mrs J Weir, Dudley

*Total distribution 15,500 copies bi-monthly

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

03

Three Pines building company The long established Wolverhampton building company Three Pines hosted an open afternoon on Friday 27th June at their newly refurbished offices where food, drink and a social atmosphere were enjoyed by invited clients and suppliers. e Alan & Louis

wners Bradshaw (O

s) of Three Pine

Lloyd Matt & Tara per er & Bill Tip Henry Carv Joe Tipper,

uire y & Peter Sq Kevin Core Bridgewood, d ar ch Ri n, Steve Asto

ter Barnett Barnett & Pe es, Mrs Jane gh Hu n sti Ju

Pines from Three All the team

am & Steve Andrell Dinh

Moore

Smith aw & Peter Alan Bradsh

04

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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

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

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

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

05

Buy with confidence The Ultimate

Shopping Experience Whether your taste is contemporary, traditional, modern or classical, Cousins have the answer. The choice is enormous, all beautifully displayed in truly inspirational room settings.

With savings in every department, you’ll find huge choice, quality and value in sofas, dining and bedroom furniture, beds, carpets, homewares and much more.

Experience the ultimate in comfort for less at the Stressless® Comfort studio in your nearest Cousins department store.

Three of the UK’s biggest and most inspirational furniture stores.

Read what our customers say...

96%

independently review our products as good/excellent (see website for details)

29 celebrating

years

a true family business 06

beyond expectation

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Sofas. Carpets. Beds. Dining. Bedrooms. Lighting.

Mirrors. Pictures. Cushions. Cookshop. And much more

expect much more than a furniture store

dine in

style Celebrating 29 years Cousins in Birmingham, Dudley and Manchester are three of the UK’s largest family-owned furniture stores, celebrating 29 years in business.

During that time, the Company has continued to expand both in terms of the number of stores and the choice available.

We are still very much a family run business - and our success has been built on offering high quality personal service to our customers and the widest selection of quality living room, dining and bedroom furniture, flooring, rugs and accessories from leading manufacturers, at prices that you can afford.

The staff at our stores in Birmingham, Dudley and Manchester, look forward to showing you the latest designs from our suppliers.

Open 7 days a week: Late Nights: Tuesday & Thursday until 8pm Birmingham

Warwick Road, Tyseley. B11 2EW. T: 0121 765 3300

Dudley

Manchester

Hall Street A57, Regent Rd, DY2 8NW. Salford. M5 4EA. T: 01384 451500 T: 0161 875 4070

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

PRICE PROMISE

Our promise to you, we won’t be beaten on price! * * See website for details

www.cousinsfurniture.co.uk 07

Sedgley: A Hole-in-One by Rob Taylor ‘sport’ - which involved tethering the bull a to rod before letting dogs attack it until dead - was outlawed in 1835, but the animal connection didn’t end there, as during the Victorian era ‘dancing bears’ entertained crowds on the site.

The Black Country knows a thing or two about the raw stuff which has over eons spewed forth from the centre of the earth and ended up lying just within the grasp of mankind. Minerals of all kinds have been plundered, refined and used in manufacturing in what was during the Industrial Revolution a powerhouse of heavy industry.

During this period of the early 19th century more holes were dug than a mole can make in a millennia.

Everything from coal to limestone merited a new penetrative entry into Mother Earth, so it should come as no surprise that even in the 21st century there’s still plenty to watch out for if you find yourself wandering down Sedgley’s Catholic Lane after dark.

immediately-thereafter, because it’s introducing a savvy new technique called ‘planer potholes’. But don’t worry; it’s an approach which is not in the least bit interesting to anyone other than subscribers to the fortnightly road-surfacing compendium, ‘Tarmac Laid Bare,’ so I won’t get into it here.

Be that as it may there’s, of course, a lot more to the - is it a large village or is it a small town? - settlement of Sedgley. Having grown rapidly during the Industrial Revolution, Sedgley’s heart lies at its ‘Bullring’ crossroads. The etymology of the ‘Bullring’ has less to do with shopping and is directly-referential to the area’s past preoccupation with the unseemly sport of bullbaiting. The hitherto innocuous

The Clifton Theatre has sat on the landmark site since 1937 and was the area’s first cinema. It endured until 1978 when the Two-fat-ladies’ of Bingo called to take it over, before latterly turning trade over to JD Weatherspoon in 1998. In fact if you take note of the number of public houses in the settlement, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Sedgley took root and grew since its first mention in the Domesday Book some thousand years ago solely because it was roughly equidistant between Wolverhampton and Dudley and thus the perfect place for a rest and a pint of tasty mead. The Crown and Red Lion are two of the most prominent pubs today; the latter was formerly the village prison and connected to the adjacent Magistrate’s Court House.

Of course any of the ‘merry men’ who are in thrall to Sedgley’s vibrant nightlife need today no longer concern themselves with a night in the nearby cells, as the Court House is now a pub itself. But as they stumble out into the early hours, they should still watch out for holes.

You see, Dudley Metropolitan Council has just been awarded £567,000 as part of a grant aimed at driving down the misery of driving by repairing existing potholes and improving preventative maintenance schemes across the borough. And Catholic Lane has made the list.

But, as you’d expect from a region with such a whole-lotta hole heritage, the plans themselves are not like Swiss-cheese. The council is going further than the usual non-plussed-geezer-to-vomittarmac-into-hole-while-infuriatingmotorists-only-to-see-work-undone08

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

09

How to create

y o u r s e l f - c a r e m a n i f e sto Today we’re focusing on self-care. Taking care of you, emotionally, physically and spiritually.

This is so important, because if you’re not taking care of yourself, it affects your energy levels and most importantly your happiness in life. Yet most of us feel very guilty when it comes to spending time and money on ourselves.

We all have commitments, obligations and responsibilities that we simply cannot ignore. I have two children to care for, a business to run, endless emails to answer, a dog that needs walking and a house that needs continuous cleaning.

Yet, I realise that if I don’t take a little time out each day or week I quickly become unbalanced.

So many of us are ‘givers’ always running around making sure we keep our boss happy, making sure the kids have gone off to school with the right lunch box, that we’ve paid the telephone bill, put the bins out or phoned our mum. There is always something that diverts us away from spending time nourishing ourselves.

Over time we have just become accustomed to the frighteningly fast pace of life we live. TV, Internet, and mobile technology all play their part

in stealing our attention away from ourselves. We collapse each night, exhausted in front of the TV with a glass of red to help us unwind and relax. It’s a vicious circle. Before we know it another week has gone by and we still haven’t had time to shave our legs or phone the hairdresser to book our next appointment.

Visit www.thegameoflife.co.uk

10

Now you must give yourself full permission to nurture and pamper yourself. You need it!

But it’s time to slow down and recognise our own needs. This is a must.

Answer these following questions to help you think about how you’re going to look after yourself better.

Think of it like this. You have £100 in your bank. Yet if you keep giving £10 away here and there without replenishing, you end up skint. There is no money in the bank! You have to fill up your reserves, whether that’s physically, energetically, emotionally or spiritually. You have to keep putting fuel in your tank, or you simply won’t go!

Where do I feel deprived?

Who or what is causing me to feel resentful and why?

What do I need more of right now?

Who are the people in my life that nourish me?

Which places or locations nourish me?

What activities nourish me?

So, today we are going to create a self-care manifesto.

Your assignment is very simple.

At the beginning of each year I create my own self-care manifesto which included lots of different activities from taking myself out for lunch, sitting in the garden with a cup of tea, to taking an Epsom salt bath with candles.

Louise Presley-Turner is a personal growth coach, motivational speaker and Author.

Louise’s new book Mindset Mastery – 40 day Miracle Masterplan to Re-launch Your Life is available for pre-order NOW.

It’s time for you to do the same.

Drop the guilt (yes I can hear your Inner Critic screaming you haven’t got the time, money, energy and so on). I am giving you full permission.

With two young children and a business to run, life can be rather hectic and some days I find it hard to get a minute to myself. So each week I make an appointment with myself, no matter how busy I am I schedule ‘me time’ time in my diary and I pick something off my self-care manifesto and I nurture myself. This is non-negotiable.

You’re going to create a self-care manifesto. A list of as many things you can do for yourself (free or paid for) that make you feel good, this could be to spend the afternoon in the park, read a book, take a long bath, cook, garden, dance, create, play. Whatever makes your spirit soar and makes you happy. Put your list up somewhere you’ll see it often. Then I want you to make an appointment with yourself each week and pick something off your self-care manifesto to do. Give yourself permission to spend a little time taking care of you and see what difference it makes to the way you feel by the end of the week.

Enjoy ;)

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Quality, bespoke creations with an exceptional service!

PVC Windows PVC Doors Conservatories Roofline Extensions Folding Sliding Doors Repairs Orangeries Timber Composite Doors

Meet the team‌

Kelly and Mike We have now relocated to our new premises, you will find us at: Unit 19, Enterprise Trading Estate, Pedmore Road, Brierley Hill, West Midlands, DY5 1TX Please telephone: 01384 896989 www.hayleywindows.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

11

Complete your room with the perfect fireplace required and expert advice on the best options for your needs.

Supplying the most up-to-date, efficient and ecologically sound brands and products on the market, whilst offering products that match expectations of quality, performance and budget; Flaming Fires succeed in meeting all of their client’s requirements.

Wolverhampton Fireplaces has an impressive 30 years of experience in the fireplace industry. Located just outside of Wolverhampton, in Chapel Ash, the family-run business helps clients to find their ideal fireplace.

Available from Wolverhampton Fireplaces

No home is complete without the warming and welcoming glow from a fireplace on a cold winter night.

Whether your home is traditional or modern, there’s nothing like a fireplace to provide that allimportant focal point to the room.

With so many designs and variations available, finding the right one for you is easy, regardless of your requirements. Meaning that you can get a functional and stylish design that will enhance your home beautifully.

Wombourne-based family-run business, Flaming Fires, has been in business since 1990.

From their beautiful 200 year old showroom, that’s situated in the village centre, the team sells an impressive selection of gas and electric fireplaces, as well as wood burning and multi-fuel stoves.

And they’re also an approved Chesney’s and Rais stockist.

The team provides a full HETAS and Gas safe installation service including: assessment of your current fireplace, room size, output

Dealing only with the biggest and best manufacturers, the company is able to offer customers the best quality products and service at value for money prices.

There’s all sorts of fireplaces on offer: ‘hole in the walls’, ‘hang on the walls’, flue-less fires as well as marble, limestone and gas and multi-fuel stoves.

A full fitting service is carried out by one of Wolverhampton Fireplace’s Gas Safe or HETAS registered teams, as well as free home surveys and a made-to-measure service.

Why not visit local stockists Flaming Fires, Wombourne and Wolverhampton Fireplaces in Chapel Ash, both will be happy to give you their expert advice.

Available from Flaming Fires

But before you begin shopping for your fireplace, it’s worth having some idea about how you’ll want to use it. And there are plenty of burning questions that you’ll need to answer: Will you use your fireplace as a primary source of heating in your home? Or are you buying it to be more of a stylish centrepiece? Is an easy-to-use and easy-to-maintain option most attractive to you? What kind of fuel do you prefer to use?

The answers to questions like these should help you determine whether an electric, gas, multifuel or wood burning fireplace will suit you and your family best.

Then again, you could always ask the experts: 12

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

505652 ff ad wolv west mag:artwork

10/9/12

14:31

Page 1

FLAMING FIRES, FIREPLACES & STOVES

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

• Contemporary and traditional designs • The only approved CHESNEY’S stockist in the area • Quality fireplaces at realistic prices • Established over 20 years

High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DP (ON THE VILLAGE GREEN)

01902 898221 www.flamingfires.co.uk

“Affordable Prices”

“Stunning Showroom”

KARNDEAN SHOWROOM NOW OPEN Old Carpets Uplifted And Removed

“Expert Advice”

“Heavy Furniture Not A Problem”

FULLY GUARANTEED CARPET CLEANING SERVICE CARPETING • RUGS • VINYLS • KARNDEAN FLOORING • LAMINATE FLOORING • REAL WOOD FLOORING

Family owned and run business for over 30 years and counting 88/90 Dudley Road, Sedgley Tel: 01902 883281

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Quick Crossword Across 1 In addition (4) 3 Greets (8) 9 Painful condition (7) 10 Childminder (5) 11 Developments (12) 14 Appropriate (3) 16 Braid hair (5) 17 Winter sport (3) 18 Purposefully (12) 21 Time-piece (5) 22 Distinctive (7) 23 Moving very fast (8) 24 Questions (4)

Down 1 From the United States (8) 2 Tantrum (5) 4 Used for seeing (3) 5 Condensed (12) 6 Parts of an hour (7) 7 Speaks (4) 8 Talented (12) 12 Delete (5) 13 Two wheeled vehicles (8) 15 Rigid support frame (7) 19 Departs (5) 20 In debt (4) 22 Male child (3)

Sudoku

Easy

Hard

Puzzle answers on page 114

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

Art

Lessons

Assembly

Lunch

Bag

Pen

Bell

Playground

Books Classroom Computer Cookery Desk

14

Prefect Pupil Reading School

English

Science

Exam

Spelling

Gym

Uniform

Hall

Writing town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

WINDOWS, ORANGERIES & CONSERVATORIES

WE BUILD IT BETTER Create your own unique space

Up to

30% off

our entire range of products this month

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

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

15

SALE NOW ON

Visit our showroom to be inspired by the newest designs

Rootwood

House

.com

Interiors Italia t/a Rootwood House|79a Darlington Street Wolverhampton|WV1 4JD 01902 428489|rootwood@outlook.com|www.rootwoodhouse.co.uk 16

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

interiorsitalia luxurious contemporary living

Designer brands. Unbeatable prices.

Showroom open 7 days a week.

Interiors Italia | 79a Darlington Street | Wolverhampton | WV1 4JD 01902 428 489 | interiorsitalia@hotmail.co.uk | www.interiorsitalia.com

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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21 Enville Road, Wall Heath Kingswinford, West Midlands DY6 0JT

A family established business since 1992.

Large enough to cope – small enough to care.

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.buildasolution.co.uk

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www.facebook.com/buildasolution

@buildasolution

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Total Sewing Service

- soft furnishing, haberdashery, alterations “We’ve got everything you need; wall coverings, poles, curtain track, roller and roman blinds, and much more.”

The team at Total Sewing Services can help you to choose from hundreds of fabrics to find the one that’s perfect for you: “We offer made-to-measure curtains and a full fitting service - with a free no-obligation quotation - meaning that you can take advantage of a totally bespoke package for your home or business, which will make it look amazing.”

Since relocating to the Cross, Kingswinford, four years ago, family-run business Total Sewing Service has gone from strength to strength.

Owner, Natalie Hemming, explains: “We are well established at our new, bigger location now and we’ve recently refurbished our large soft furnishings showroom to properly display our extensive range of products and fabrics.”

There’s curtains, curtain poles, blinds and even wallpaper at Total Sewing Service, as well as a haberdashery for all your sewing, knitting, craft needs and an alteration service.

The haberdashery is fully-stocked with wool, dress and knitting patterns, cross-stitch, craft items, buttons and every other haberdashery product you can think of for all your sewing and knitting needs.

And, if you’ve got any garment that needs altering even something as special as your wedding dress - the team can take care of it: “A Tailoress is always present to offer advice on any changes to bridal-wear, formalwear, prom-wear, as well as any other garments.”

“We do all of our alterations on the premises and we’ve got a dedicated changing area where you can be measured for alterations and try on altered clothes when you collect.”

So, for all of your soft furnishing, haberdashery and alteration needs, look no further than Total Sewing Services, Kingswinford.

Soft furnishings ~ Haberdashery ~ Alterations

Advice, Measure, Make, Fit

• Bespoke custom made Curtains • 100’s of fabrics and wallcoverings • Roman blinds made to measure • Pole and Tracks • Haberdashery • Wool • Scarf Yarns • Dress Fabrics • Knitting and Dress Patterns • Clothing Alterations with Tailoress on site • Phaff Sewing Machines now in stock

Curtain Fabric just arrived, from only £6.99 per metre Dress Fabrics discounted to only £2.99 per metre O p e n : 9 a m - 5 p m M o n d a y t o F riday. 9am-4pm Saturday.

Tel: 01384 295960

7 The Cross, Kingswinford, DY6 9JA

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

www.totalsewing.co.uk

19

Putting the verve back…

One of the region’s most popular hotels, The Village Urban Resort on Castlegate Business Park in Dudley, launches a brand new restaurant following a £200,000 refurbishment on Saturday 21st September.

Verve Bar & Grill has long been a favourite for hotel residents and for savvy locals who know its best kept secret… Sunday lunch.

VERVE BAR & GRILL returns

to showcase freshly prepared seasonal British favourites, presented simply by v.happy staff who are knowledgeable and friendly. Sunday lunch has also had a tweak or two and strikes a great balance between value for money and high quality dining in contemporary surroundings.

From October, the restaurant will share regular event nights including ‘Saturday Night LIVE’ and Sundays will be a family affair with a new Ice Cream Factory and regular magician or face painter for the kids. www.villagehotels.co.uk To reserve your table call 0871 222 4584.

Competition To celebrate the restaurant re-opening, the hotel is giving one lucky reader the chance to win a 3 course Sunday Lunch for up to 4 people including drinks.

To be in with the chance of winning this fabulous prize simply answer the following question correctly:

What is the name of the newly refurbished restaurant at The Village Urban Resort, Dudley?

Email your answer to info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk or on a postcard to Town & Village Life magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY. Entries to be received by Friday 10th October 2014 Competition Terms and Conditions: Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received. To enter the competition you will need to be aged 18 years or older. No cash or alternative prize will be given and booking date will be subject to availability. Sunday Lunch prize booking to be made in advance and excludes event dates. Prize value is based on £25pp and any additional spend will be charged on the day. All entry details will be forwarded to the Village Urban Resort, Dudley unless otherwise requested. Prize to be claimed by Sunday 30th November 2014

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town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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

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

THE ROMAN WAY

R

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

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

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21

recipe of the month Courgette And Poppyseed Cake EQUIPMENT

Cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until pale, light and fluffy. Then whisk the 4 eggs with a pinch of salt and weigh your flour.

Gradually add a little of the whisked eggs and then a little flour alternatively until all combined and the batter is smooth. Adding too much egg at once can split your batter and that’s not good.

• 2 x 8” anodised removable bottom cake tins • 2 x lining kits for 8” tins or grease with butter and line withparchment paper. (both tins and lining kits available from www.takefood.co.uk) • Cake stand and dome or plate and slice • Food mixer with beater attachment • Spatula • Scales • Zester/fine grater • Large grater • Pestle and Mortar • Palette knife for spreading

Now fold your courgette, poppy seeds, zest and lime juice into the batter with a metal spoon. Wooden spoons can tend to knock air out of your mix.

Equally distribute the batter between the 2 tins and bake for about 35 minutes or until springy and a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean.

INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • • • • •

300g of courgette, washed and coarsely grated 4 eggs 225g soft butter 225g caster sugar 225g self raising flour 1 tsp baking powder Zest and juice of 1 lime.

1 jar of lemon curd or email mike@takefood.co.uk for my recipe 1 tsp of poppy seeds A handful of pistachio nuts crushed in a pestle a mortar A pinch of salt 150g Cream cheese 300g Icing sugar

METHOD Pre-heat your oven to 180˚C It’s courgette season so I’m making a Courgette, lime and Poppyseed cake with cream cheese frosting, crushed pistachio and lemon curd filling.

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

Now in a bowl or food processor, add the cream cheese and icing sugar together and beat until quite stiff and smooth.

Remember you don’t want it sliding down the side of your cake.

When the sponges are out of the oven allow them to cool in the tins for 15 minutes then turn out onto a cooling rack. Once completely cool start to build your cake on the plate putting a little lemon curd on the plate to stop the sponge from moving around. Now spread the first sponge with lemon curd, not too much, sprinkle with a little of the pistachios and place the second sponge on top. Glaze the sides of the 2 sponges with lemon curd and top with the cream cheese frosting and sprinkle the rest of the crushed pistachio on top.

SERVING SUGGESTION: Get your friends round and make a large pot of strong tea. www.instagram.com/mikewhitehurst_takefood www.takefood.co.uk mike@takefood.co.uk www.facebook.com/takefood! www.twitter.com/takefood

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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www.wolverhamptonfireplaces.co.uk 24

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Stourbridge Galleries - The art of picture framing Established in Worcester Street for thirty years, Stourbridge Galleries have a fine reputation as a gift shop, gallery and picture framers.

This fine 19th century house is the home of a truly 21st century shopping experience. Inside you will find an exciting mix of designled gifts, jewellery, greetings cards, artwork and home accessories.

Great design, quality and value for money are paramount when selecting the stylish and unusual collections for the store, giving a choice of products not readily available on the high street.

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

finished job complements both the picture and home dĂŠcor. All types of artwork on paper can be framed, including photographs, prints, watercolours and pastels, together with oil paintings, needlework, memorabilia and sports shirts.

Your favourite works of art can also be enhanced by the use of specialist glass. Recently introduced, UltraVue glass offers the best option for reflection free viewing with optimum clarity and colour transmission. This premium product is the perfect option when the

Bespoke picture framing is one of the cornerstones of the business, with a comprehensive service being offered from their own workshops.

Customers can choose from over 200 different frames and a wide choice of mounts, ensuring that the

priority is to see the artwork with little or no reflection to diminish your visual enjoyment. Another glass on offer is Conservation Clear, which acts as a sunscreen for artwork, blocking most harmful rays and keeping colours attractive for years longer than normal glass.

The Galleries offer a friendly and efficient service and will always take time to ensure that your various options are considered and that the finished job meets all your requirements.

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

Stourbridge Gift Shop

Gallery

Galleries Picture Framers

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

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

Open: 9.30am - 5.30pm Monday to Saturday

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

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

25

Win a Black Country Specials Meal for Four

Bully with regular diner Noddy Holder

Bravaccio’s - The Best Italian - and Black Country - food around.

If you love Italian food you’re sure to already be well acquainted with Tettenhall’s top restaurant, Bravaccio’s.

A firm favourite with the locals and a must-visit venue for those who appreciate the fine, authentic flavours of Italy, the restaurant has become well known for its delicious cuisine and fantastic setting overlooking the village green.

The restaurant launched an exciting new menu in March – alongside their Italian a la carte selection –

that caters to the tastes of those who appreciate food that hails from somewhere a little closer to home.

Drawing on his strong Black Country roots, and inspired by the success of the restaurant’s traditional Sunday lunch menu, owner and Wolves legend, Steve Bull introduced a midweek menu that celebrates those culinary classics that the Black Country is famous for.

Available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays lunchtimes and evenings between 5.30pm and 8:30pm, The Black Country Specials menu gives fans of traditional foods a real treat. There’s

‘Traditional Sausage and Mash’, ’Faggots and Peas’, ‘Bravaccios’ Pie of the Week’, ’Honey Roast Ham and Eggs’, as well as Bully’s favourite ’Liver and Onions.’

And for those who still can’t resist the Italian influence, there’s also the option to order ‘Macaroni Cheese’ or a ‘Home-Made Vegetarian Pizza’.

Each dish is prepared from scratch, using only the finest, fresh ingredients by the restaurant’s talented head chef, Mario Bennasciutti. And the best part is that every option on the menu is priced at only £6.95.

For reservations please call 01902 756052, 4a Upper Green, Tettenhall. www.bravaccios.co.uk To mark the success of their ‘Black Country Specials Menu’ Bravaccio’s are giving one lucky Town & Village Life Magazine reader the chance to win a ‘Black Country Specials Meal’ for four people and a bottle of selected wine.

To enter simply answer the following question correctly.

Entries to be received by Friday 10th October 2014.

What is Bully’s favourite dish off the new menu?

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

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Competition Terms & Conditions Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and informed by telephone. To enter you must be aged 18 years or older. Prize to be taken off the Black Country Specials Menu only. No cash or alternative prize will be given. Prize valid, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday evening between 5.30pm and 8.30pm subject to availability. Prize to be redeemed by Thursday 20th November 2014. All entries will be forwarded to Bravaccio’s unless requested otherwise.

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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27

Author A.G Smith returns to Kinver Library

Kinver library will be hosting a day of ‘spooky’ events on 28th of October which will culminate in a terrifying reading by acclaimed author A.G Smith.

A.G Smith last performed at Kinver library in October 2013 and tickets for the event sold out very quickly.

‘I had a wonderful time at Kinver library last year.’ A.G Smith told TVL, ‘the community has a very special library situated in a beautiful old school house that really commands attention from the high street. It is a perfect setting for storytelling, but it also feels like the hub of the community, exactly as a library should always be. The staff are so lovely and helpful they made me very welcome and had worked so hard to ensure the library had the right atmosphere for the performance. I was deeply saddened to read that Kinver is one of the libraries facing job cuts and being turned over to be volunteer run. This is unfair on rural communities who rely so much on 28

their local library. A library needs to be run by a qualified librarian, it’s that simple. I will be very proud to return to Kinver and show my support for the library with an event like this, I hope the audience will do the same.’

A.G Smith has been writing since his childhood and his work has been praised by bestselling authors Anthony Horowitz, G.P Taylor and Miranda Dickinson. He works with Young Offenders in local prisons to engage them with reading and writing and this aspect of his work has been showcased on BBC Radio 4 and Channel 4’s Secret Millionaire programme.

Although better known for his fantasy trilogy ‘Harvester of the Now’ A.G Smith’s horror stories have become widely popular and his yearly tours sell out very quickly.

‘I have always loved horror films, ever since my father introduced me to Hammer Horror in my teens. I love the Gothic beauty of those films, and I prefer the restraint and suggestion of the 1930’s – 1970’s period which I

find much more frightening than a lot of modern horror. As an author I love the ghost stories of M.R James, the ‘strange’ fiction of Robert Aickman and the sci-fi horror of H.P Lovecraft.

All three are masters of their trade and I take great pains with my horror stories to stay true to their legacy.

I think people have forgotten the power of spoken word. This is the oldest form of entertainment, and my stories will try to take you back to memories of sitting around a campfire and someone telling you a spooky story.’

Be warned though, A.G Smith’s stories have been know to elicit screams of terror from even the most hardened audience, and they are not recommended for children or the faint-hearted.

If you feel brave enough, please reserve a ticket on: 01384 872348 For more information about A.G Smith please visit: www.harvesterofthenow.com Twitter: @harvesterOTnow

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

LOVE YOUR HOME

Beautiful homes

Deserve beautiful blinds‌ and shutters too!

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

01746 768138

or Simon at our Kinver showroom on:

01384 877518

Alternatively you can visit our showrooms at:

10 Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth & 83 High Street, Kinver

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Beacon Centre for the blind sponsorship. Anyone over the age of ten can take part, with under-18s needing a signed letter of consent from their parent or guardian.

A booking form can be downloaded from www.beacon4blind.co.uk or call 01902 880111 and ask for the fundraising team.

Kelly Vickers, fundraising and events officer at Beacon, added: “We’re always looking for fun and different ways to raise money for the charity and we’re sure this daunting challenge will be successful.

“Abseiling is an exhilarating activity to take part in and we’re offering five timeslots during the day to ensure that everyone who is keen to take part has the chance.

(L/R) Kate Sanders, Jackie Winfield & Caroline Garbett abseil for Beacon

A leading regional charity has challenged intrepid West Midlanders to step off the top of Dudley Castle!

Beacon, based at Sedgley, is inviting brave souls to abseil from the 70ft tall tower on September 28 to raise funds for local people living with sight loss.

Amongst those taking part will be three women from Wolverhampton’s Connect PR agency.

Account director Caroline Garbett, junior account executive Kate Sanders and finance manager Jackie Winfield will take a day off from managing the charity’s

publicity to scale the walls of the 10th Century castle.

Caroline said: “Connect started working with Beacon almost a year ago and, in that time, we have been inspired by the way the charity transforms the dayto-day lives of local people.

“Abseiling from Dudley Castle will be a real leap of faith for us, but we are excited to be helping raise awareness of Beacon and support its fundraising activity.”

Five time slots are available during the day and participants are asked to pay £10 to register and commit to raising at least £75 in

“As most people will know however abseiling is a hazardous activity and unfortunately anyone with cardiovascular or respiratory problems or epilepsy will be unable to take part.”

Beacon helps people with sight loss in the West Midlands live fuller and more independent lives by offering them the finest facilities and support, from providing advice to helping find permanent accommodation in Wolverhampton.

It also runs initiatives which support adults living with sight loss to take part in a broad range of leisure activities in a safe environment to raise their confidence levels.

For more information call 01902 880111 or email fundraising@beacon4blind.co.uk

The Rotary Club of Stourbridge Arthur Baker, President Rotary Club of Stourbridge 2014-2015

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Arthur’s plans for the coming year include a focus on supporting small charities both locally and internationally. Arthur has selected the Black Country Foodbank as one of his charities for the year.

New Year, New President

Each year the Stourbridge Club raises around £20,000 for its selected charities from a range of events and activities.

The Rotary Club of Stourbridge began its ‘new year’ on Wednesday 2nd July when Arthur Baker was installed as the President for 2014-15.

Arthur, now retired, has lived in the Stourbridge area for many years and is keen that the club should play its part in the local community.

L/R: Chris Kelly MP Dudley South, Mary Jones Chairman, Cllrs Patrick Harley & Natalie Neale who attended the July meeting.

Meetings are held at the Kingfisher Hotel, Wall Heath the second Friday each month 12pm for 12.30pm departing at 3pm.

The speaker in September will be Dr. Bob Bibbey, author,

Dudley South Ladies Luncheon Club and in October Nigel Wiggin, Old Hall story.

Once again we would love to welcome visitors who can attend three times before deciding to join – for further information ring the secretary on 01902 372984.

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

01384 395852 01384 397271

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

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guaranteed to be a perfect fit.

What’s more, each blind and awning comes with a 5 year guarantee.

“There is a seemingly endless choice of colours and designs to choose from at our showroom, and we add new collections all the time.”

A friendly and knowledgeable sales team work from the showroom and are on-hand to offer guidance and advice, but there’s also the option to request a home visit:

Angela Williams (sales administrator)

Castle Blinds And Awnings The team at Castle Blinds and Awnings are keen to show customers around their newly refurbished Kingswinfordbased showroom.

The long-established company has been setting itself apart from the competition since beginning life in 1993 and now it has a fresh new look to provide the backdrop for the latest chapter.

Twenty five percent bigger than before, the showroom is ideal for showcasing new products, fabrics and ranges, like Mirage blinds - currently only manufactured

by Castle in the West Midlands - and plantation shutters.

Experienced in catering to the needs of both domestic and commercial clients alike, Castle is well equipped to take on any project, no matter how large or small. And, because the company has its own factory, each blind and awning can be individually manufactured to meet with any specific requirements.

Managing Director, Brian Jones explains: “Being a manufacturer of custom made window blinds gives us an edge over other blind and awnings companies, because we can ensure that our customers benefit from better prices, a faster service and a totally bespoke product.

“Our clients can rest assured that the items they buy from us are of the highest quality and are 32

“Customers are welcome to make arrangements for a free home visit. A member of our team will call to see you and assist with choosing the right fabric and leave a no obligation quotation.”

When it comes to fitting, Castle Blinds and Awnings only use their trusted, fully qualified in-house team of fitters to install their blinds and awnings.

You might think that if you haven’t paid a visit to the showroom, you haven’t seen Castle’s products, well think again.

“We’ve been supplying the BBC with blinds and awnings for over twelve years. Our products have been used as part of the sets of many well-known programmes, including; Eastenders, Holby City, Doc Martin, Lark Rise to Candleford, Hustle and Master Chef. ITV have also used our blinds in their sets too.”

Brian, his daughter Amanda - who runs the business - and the team of staff at Castle are keen to raise awareness and inform people of the importance of ensuring that all window blind cords are safe.

“Window blind cords can pose a risk for babies, children and vulnerable people who could injure or even strangle themselves on the hanging looped cords. We’re always keen to give advice on modernising window blinds to make sure they’re safe.

“We’re members of the British Blind and Shutter Association and we fully support their ‘Make It Safe Campaign’ which highlights the importance of blind safety.

Every one of our blinds complies with child safety requirements.”

Whatever you’ve got planned for you’re home or business, there’s no better place to visit than Castle Blinds and Awnings.

You’re guaranteed to find just what you’re looking for and you’ll be treated to top quality customer service - something that’s hard to find these days. town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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Let your imagination run free and transform your home

If you do want to make a big change, there is a vast array of colours that can be combined to create rooms which will wow your friends. Consider perhaps a combination of mint green and pale pink; ruby red and turquoise; purple and yellow or maybe even orange combined with pink, blue or green. These vibrant shades will transform your home and bring it up to date with current trends.

If bright show-off colours are not to your taste, then mixing pastel shades and vintage themes may work for you. Old wooden chairs, which can be found at many car boot sales or charity shops, can be painted in paler colours to give them a new lease of life, while old-fashioned suitcases are perfect storage solutions and can help to create a rustic feel.

When planning to make any changes to your home, it is a good idea to base your theme around a particular object, as Cora Turner-Collis of Virgo Carpets & Interiors based at Interiors@No72 in Tettenhall Wood explains. “If you choose one item and base your colours around it, everything will fit in. It might be a painting, a piece of furniture you may have inherited, or a pair of curtains you already own. It helps to blend colours which stop rooms looking mis-matched.”

For the past decade, neutral shades have dominated the world of interior design.

Now however, it’s time to be daring and inject some colour into your home.

Nature inspired bold-prints are very fashionable right now. That’s not to say that you should cover every wall in your house with bright patterned wallpaper. Why not experiment with a peacock feather design feature wall, a palm leaf blind or a bold floral rug to give your home a contemporary feel, without blowing the budget?

In order to do this, it is important to look closely at the object that you are basing your room around.

Can the colours be matched to an exact shade?

Do you already have any items that match the object? What objects could you bring in to further develop your theme? Accessories are a crucial part of modernising any interior. Small changes, such as a glass chandelier or a mirror, can bring more light into your home, giving it a new, fresher feel.

Whether it’s with a massive overhaul or a small tweak, any room can be given an upto-date contemporary feel. So be inspired, be brave, be daring and give your home the bright future that it deserves.

Items shown are available from Virgo Carpets & Interiors based at Interiors@No.72

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town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Competition Two lucky winners can each win 2 tickets to see THRILLER LIVE on Tuesday 11th November at 7.30pm at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre.

Direct from London’s West End where it is now in its record breaking 6th year, THRILLER LIVE is a spectacular concert created to celebrate the career of the world’s greatest entertainer. THRILLER LIVE returns to the Grand Theatre from Tuesday 11 to Saturday 15 November.

Seen by over 2.5 million people in over 26 countries, THRILLER LIVE continues to moonwalk around the world, taking you on a visual, audio and electrifying journey through the magic of Michael’s 45 year musical history.

Experience over two hours of non-stop hits from pop to rock, soul to disco in a show that pays homage to Jackson’s legendary live performances and innovative dance moves executed with flair, precision and passion in a show that you will never forget.

Expect your favourite songs delivered by an exceptionally talented cast and band, including: I Want You Back, ABC, Can You Feel It, Off The Wall, The Way You Make Me Feel, Smooth Criminal, Beat It, Billie Jean, Dirty Diana, Bad, Rock With You, They Don’t care About Us, Dangerous, Heal The World, and Thriller plus many more!

Call the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Box Office for more information on 01902 429212 or visit our website at www.grandtheatre.co.uk 36

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and send it on a post card with your name, address and telephone number to Town & Village Life Magazine at the address below before Friday 10th October 2014.

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

Michael Jackson was known for a unique walk. Was it: a) Cakewalk b) Boardwalk c) Moonwalk Competition Terms and Conditions Please post all entries to Town & Village Life Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY. To be received no later than Friday 10th October 2014. Winners to collect tickets from the Box Office on the night. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash or alternative prize night available.

Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity.

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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37

Green Source renewable energy Systems There has never been a better time to re-think the way you use energy in your home, thanks to local company Green Source Renewables and a new government-run Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme.

In a climate where energy bills are soaring and natural resources are dwindling, embracing renewable energy systems is more important than ever. And what’s more, making a change doesn’t just help the environment, it helps you too.

By choosing to install ground source or air to water heat pumps in your home, you are making a sound and rewarding financial decision.

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Stourbridge-based Company Green Source Renewables has been assisting customers to make this decision since it was established in 2010.

Company Director, Ashley Cartwright explains: “When embarking on a project with us, you not only get the latest in renewable technology, but a wealth of information and expertise.“ “Every project is treated individually, taking into account your demands and needs so that you get the efficiency, economy and effectiveness that you require.”

Green Source Renewables is fully MCS Accredited to install ground source and air to water heat pumps.

“By using only the best quality products on the market, we ensure a quality job every time.”

When you install with Green Source, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint and lower your fuel bills.

Fuel deliveries are not required for heat pumps and both space heating and hot water can be provided from the installation.

The company, which employs its own fitters, covers all aspects of installation, along with fault finding and servicing.

“Our services come highly recommended from many satisfied customers and we work hard to ensure that our clients receive extremely competitive rates.”

In addition to this, you could also benefit from the exciting government incentive RHI Scheme launched in April 2014, which offers home owners the chance to reduce their energy bills and create an extra annual income.

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Ashley answers our questions about the scheme: What is the RHI? The RHI is a government backed financial incentive scheme designed to encourage UK homes to swap to renewable heating systems.

Under the scheme, heat-pump, biomass or solar thermal system owners are rewarded for the renewable heat they generate over a seven year period.

What are the benefits?

As well as cutting your home’s carbon footprint, installing an RHI-eligible technology will bring you all the usual economic benefits of a renewable heating system and more. Not only will it reduce your reliance on costly on or off grid fossil fuels, it will also provide you with quarterly payments for the next seven years (tariffs will adjust in line with inflation).

How much could I earn?

How much you could earn depends on the technology you

choose and the tariffs set out by the government (measured in pence per kilo watt-hour for the renewable heat produced).

Payment calculations are based on an estimate of how much heat your home will require from a renewable heating system and how it will perform once installed. As well as the technology itself, performance will also depend on other factors, such as installation levels and the heat emitters your system uses.

Before you apply, you’ll need an up-to-date Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), which shows how efficient your property is.

If you’re applying for a retrofit project, you will need to arrange a Green Deal Assessment (GDA) which will identify measures to improve your home’s efficiency (including minimum insulation levels). These improvements need to be carried out and a new EPC obtained before going ahead with the RHI application. For most new self-build projects the EPC will be produced at the end of the build.

Here’s an example: A ground source heat pump fitted in a typical four-bedroom house could generate annual payments

of around £3,400 (or £24,000 over the seven year scheme): Estimated Cost of Ground Source Heat Pump: £18,000 Annual Running cost of heat pump: £810.00 Annual RHI Payment (Assuming 18,243kWh produced) : £3,429.68 Estimated RHI payments over x7 years: £24,007.76 In comparison an equivalent oil boiler to run per annum would be £1,670.00 A heat pump could therefore benefit you by over £350 per month compared with an oil boiler.

Who is eligible?

Anyone who retrofits an air source or ground source heat pump, biomass boiler or solar thermal system in a single domestic property is eligible for RHI payments. Self-build properties are the only new build installations that are eligible.

To qualify for RHI payments, your system needs to be fitted by an installer who has the right training and accreditation under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). Opting for a heat pump Installed by Green Source Renewables gives you complete peace of mind, as we are MCS accredited, and can also offer an extended 7 year warranty on all products - so it pays to deal with the experts.

For further details please call 01384 443244 or visit www.greensourcerenewables.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

39

An insight into Burma This spellbinding country is a dream destination if you are keen to escape hordes of tourists, venture off the beaten track and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Burma (Myanmar) remains a largely undiscovered and undeveloped destination to visit but it offers something unique, authentic and deeply rewarding. A diversity of regional influences, along with a century of imperial colonialism, a deep devotion to Buddhism, and an abundance of natural wonders, from peaks and lakes to highlands and beaches, has shaped the country into a compelling destination that always captures the hearts of adventurous travellers. From the ‘Temple City’ of Bagan to the jewelencrusted pagodas of Rangoon; the floating gardens of Inle Lake and the unspoilt talcum-powder sands of Ngapali, Burma offers the perfect fusion of ancient traditions, modern lifestyles and a fantastic mix of warm and welcoming locals.

You can discover some of the incredible highlights of this remarkable land, including ancient monasteries, gleaming pagodas, tradition markets on the Burma Encounter tour. Alternatively you can enjoy an unforgettable seven or eight night cruise on board the luxury Belmond Orcaella, or a three, four or seven night cruise on board the Belmond Road to Mandalay along the Irrawaddy River from Rangoon to Bagan. Immerse yourself in the Burmese culture with a host of activities to choose from and watch in awe as mist-veiled pagodas emerge from the stunning landscape and locals go about their everyday life on the river.

Rangoon (Yangon) Once the capital of Burma, Rangoon is the largest city in the country and is renowned for its spectacular religious shrines and timeless colonial charm. Often compared to the cosmetic renovations of Singapore,

Rangoon acts as your gateway to Burma. This vibrant city is filled with a fusion of British Colonial architecture, newly built office buildings, colourful streets and bustling open-air markets that vend a range of locally-sourced and exquisite hand made goods.

Contemplate at the golden Shwedagon Pagoda which boasts a jewel studded spire that can be seen from around the city and take photos of the Chaukhtgyi Paya statue that once stood high above buildings before erosion caused the statue to crumble and it was then rebuilt into the reclining Buddha. You can explore the city’s famous bazaar, Bogyoke Market which sprawls across two levels and is a veritable treasure trove, selling everything from jade jewellery, antiques and beautiful carvings to clothes, souvenirs and exotic fruits, or jump on board a luxuriously renovated Elephant Coach to see the port of Syriam in style.

Mandalay Occupied by the British in 1824, the city of Mandalay was chosen to be the capital of the Burmese Empire and was home to the last King and Queen before they were exiled to India. Maintaining its youth as a modern city, Mandalay is thronged with towering offices and universities that only local students can attend due to the Government’s attempt in the prevention of overcrowding cities.

Mandalay is a religious centre for Buddhism, residing to the east of the Irrawaddy River. Here the Golden Buddha of Mahamuri Paya lies amongst a series of monasteries leading up to Mandalay Hill, where Burma’s largest Buddhist bible is kept.

Head to the township of Amarapura to watch over a thousand monks of all ages glide past as they make their way to their dining halls in complete silence after gathering alms that morning: a vision you’ll never forget.

Bagan

betrays the old wealth and power of this former kingdom. Dotted with over 2200 Buddhist temples, pagodas and ruins that are protected by UNESCO, Bagan is a city that ranks as one of the most incredible archaeological sites in Asia, rivalling the great temples of Angkor in Cambodia.

Shwezigon Pagoda was built by King Anawrahta in the early 11th Century to enshrine sacred relics of the Buddha. Try to visit all four relics in one day - it is said that those who do will enjoy luck and prosperity. You can also explore this ancient city by horse and carriage - looking out for golden spires peeking over hilltops, ride a boat along the winding Irrawaddy River and discover serene monasteries tucked away in the rolling hills.

Bagan is also popular for its Myaung Oo Market, where older ladies are seen making, selling and smoking enormous Cheroot cigars.

Inle Beneath the slopes of the Shan Hills lies the freshwater lake where locals live in stilt villages built from bamboo. The lake is known as the Venice of the East and locals travel by water in order to transport their produce to surrounding towns. Here you can discover the charming floating gardens and local fishing traditions of the indigenous Intha people who are famous for their innovative rowing techniqueusing one leg to power an oar.

Spend your days canoeing on the lake, cycling or walking along the water’s edge, soaking in the region’s tranquil ambience, or take a charming boat ride along the Nyaung Shwe River, whilst taking in the sights of the Phaungdaw Oo Pagoda. The ancient Inn Thein Pagoda features hundreds of crumbling stupas with weathered domes overgrown with moss.

The Burma Encounter tour can be found in the new Kuoni Far East brochure and prices start from £2,945 (Jan dept).

On the banks of the great Irrawaddy River sits a laidback city which

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

village life magazine | september/october 2014

Reduce energy bills and create extra income by making a simple swap to Renewable Heating 7 years Government backed guaranteed payments 7 years warranty Replace existing fossil fuel boilers Long term low running cost The domestic RHI will pay the following taris per unit of heat generated for 7 years

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www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Get closer 41

Stourbridge rfc kick off the 2014-2015 season

The 2014/15 season is underway at Stourbridge Rugby Club, with the First XV, Lions, Lions II’s and III’s, and Mini & Junior teams all in action for the next eight months!

After an excellent pre-season which included winning games against Old Halesonians at home and Wharfedale away, the Stour First XVs first game is away at Harrogate on the 6th September. The following weekend they meet Luctonians for the first home game at Stourton Park There is a packed programme of social events open to members and non-members alike – from pre-match lunches, the Ladies Luncheon Circle and various charity fundraisers to our corporate lunches and May Ball. Don’t forget our Family Bonfire Night which this year will be held on Saturday November 8th.

For further information on Stourton Park as a venue, events or team fixtures please see our website at www.stourbridgerugby.com or call 01384 395000.

We very much look forward to welcoming you to Stourton Park soon.

STOurBriDGe fiXTureS 2014/15 All Home games kick off at 3pm Date

Home Team

Away Team

06-Sep-14

Harrogate

v

STOURBRIDGE

13-Sep-14

STOURBRIDGE

v

Luctonians

20-Sep-14

Leicester Lions

v

STOURBRIDGE

27-Sep-14

Huddersfield

v

STOURBRIDGE

04-Oct-14

STOURBRIDGE

v

Caldy

11-Oct-14

Hull

v

STOURBRIDGE

18-Oct-14

STOURBRIDGE

v

Otley

25-Oct-14

Broadstreet

v

STOURBRIDGE

01-Nov-14

STOURBRIDGE

v

Stockport

08-Nov-14

Ampthill & District

v

STOURBRIDGE

15-Nov-14

STOURBRIDGE

v

Sedgley Park

22-Nov-14

Birmingham & Solihull

v

STOURBRIDGE

29-Nov-14

STOURBRIDGE

v

Preston Grasshoppers

06-Dec-14

Hull Ionians

v

STOURBRIDGE

13-Dec-14

STOURBRIDGE

v

Chester

20-Dec-14

Luctonians

v

STOURBRIDGE

03-Jan-15

STOURBRIDGE

v

Leicester Lions

10-Jan-15

STOURBRIDGE

v

Huddersfield

17-Jan-15

Caldy

v

STOURBRIDGE

24-Jan-15

STOURBRIDGE

v

Hull

31-Jan-15

Otley

v

STOURBRIDGE

07-Feb-15

STOURBRIDGE

v

Broadstreet

14-Feb-15

Stockport

v

STOURBRIDGE

21-Feb-15

STOURBRIDGE

v

Ampthill & District

07-Mar-15

Sedgley Park

v

STOURBRIDGE

14-Mar-15

STOURBRIDGE

v

Birmingham & Solihull

28-Mar-15

Preston Grasshoppers

v

STOURBRIDGE

11-Apr-15

STOURBRIDGE

v

Hull Ionians

18-Apr-15

Chester

v

STOURBRIDGE

25-Apr-15

STOURBRIDGE

v

Harrogate

T: 01384 395000 E: rugby@stourbridgerugby.com www.stourbridgerugby.com 42

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

“NEVERMO” ARTIFICIAL LAWNS From August Home Improvements

You wouldn’t believe this is artificial grass!

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

BEFORE

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AFTER

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Take a look at our website for more information:

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

43

No barriers when dealing with MSM Hire MSM Hire is a local business based in Tong, and has been selling concrete blocks for a number of years through our parent company MSM Plant Ltd. Following an increased demand in safety and security solutions, we established MSM Hire and now have an experienced, dedicated team for all temporary and permanent block solutions.

MSM Hire operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Customer relations are at the forefront of everything that we do, which is why so many customers keep coming back to us. We strive to supply our customers with the best locally sourced products whilst ensuring that the costs stay low.

We supply for hire or purchase concrete blocks and barriers for security, safety, traffic management, flood defence, silage pits and waste bays. We also stock Heras fencing, which is a health and safety must for any building project, festival or fair.

We have an experienced team available to deliver, erect and

place all of our products.

Difficult to reach sites and rough terrain are not a problem, just inform a team member when ordering and we will find the right solution to suit your requirements.

MSM Hire, Tong Hill Farm, Tong, Shropshire, TF11 8PW 0800 181 4155

CALL TODAY FOR A QUOTE

0800 181 4155 blockhire@ msmplant.co.uk

MSM Hire offer a wide range of concrete blocks/barriers for hire or purchase • Free site survey • Industrial, commercial and private land security • Waste bays and silage pits • Nationwide delivery • Heras safety / security fencing • Ideal for building work, fetes, fayres and events • Traveller removal and site clearance

T: 07964 999111 E: blockhire@msmplant.co.uk

www.msmblockhire.co.uk 44

MSM Hire Tong Hill Farm Tong Shropshire TF11 8PW

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

45

Bring some glamour to your garden with MDK Garden Services

Close your eyes and imagine a gardener. I bet you are visualising an older gentleman, wearing a lot of tweed and a flat cap. Well, Martina Stiffelova, owner of MDK Garden Services, is trailblazing the way for a new generation of younger, female gardeners.

Martina’s mission is clear. “I hope to alter people’s perceptions of what a gardener is.” she says “Driving around, all gardeners are men. I am quite unique. I want to change that.”

saw the size of most suburban British gardens. “In Slovakia I had a massive garden” she recalls “when I came here, the garden at my home was too small to satisfy my gardening needs, so I began to work on other people’s garden’s in my spare time.”

Having worked in various industries for almost twenty years, both here and in her native Slovakia, Martina felt that it was time for a career change as she was building up to a ‘big birthday’.

She began building up a client base by working evenings and weekends before taking the leap and becoming a full time gardener in April this year when MDK Garden Services was officially launched.

Martina, originally from Slovakia, became interested in gardening from a young age, when she used to help out on her grandparent’s farm.

“My grandparents grew vegetables” she remembers “it was natural for my family to help out and learn about how things grow”. This was where Martina’s love of the outdoors and working outside began.

Working in Stourbridge, Pedmore, Hagley, Oldbury, Rowley Regis and surrounding areas, Martina is able to offer a wide range of gardening services to her clients and always has a car full of tools! As well as general garden maintenance, such as lawn mowing and planting, she is also able to carry out soft landscaping, border maintenance and soil cultivation for customers.

Moving to the UK was a big change for Martina, especially when she

Moving forward, Martina is beginning to use more technology

in her work. This includes the use of innovative software to create garden designs. Using this, she is able to bring her ideas to life and create fabulous gardens which fit in to the lifestyle and family life of the owner. This allows her to carry out an in depth discussion with the client and build a plan as a team, combining customer ideas with Martina’s expertise.

Martina’s entrepreneurial attitude towards her business does not stop there. If you are struggling to find a present for the person who has everything, why not purchase one of Martina’s gift vouchers?

Available throughout the year, these vouchers can provide recipients with the opportunity to benefit from her knowledgeable approach to gardening.

So if your garden is in need of some fully insured female attention, do not hesitate to phone Martina on 07950 980881, email her at info@mdkgardenservices.co.uk or visit www.mdkgardenservices.co.uk

46

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Exclusive UK Distributor of

Lawn Thatch Optimizer special lawn fertiliser

• Potting and Weeding • Edging and Soft landscaping • Lawn and Garden Maintenance • Quality, Reliability and Economical Service • Based in Stourbridge

Time and energy too precious ?

Let us turn your garden dream into a reality

Gift s Voucher e Availabl

Please contact Martina:

Tel: 07950 980881 Email: info@mdkgardenservices.co.uk

www.mdkgardenservices.co.uk

Do’ ‘Good At What We Manufacturers, Suppliers & Installers of all types of domestic and commercial fencing and gates.

Call us today on:

01384 725435 Heath Mill Industrial Est, Heath Mill Road, Wombourne WV5 8AP

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PROFENCE! 47

Autumn colour Hopefully we’ll get a nice spell of weather throughout September, so prolonging the flowering season of summer bedding and perennials.

Tips are provided

by Ann Winwood from Lealans Garden Centre, Wolverhampton

are placed somewhere frost free – a spare bedroom, utility room, conservatory or garage that has some slight heat in the winter.

In a severe winter an unheated garage will not be suitable for the storage of cold sensitive plants.

Summer baskets and tubs should still be in their prime through September and possibly into October if we don’t get any early frosts.

Why not re-plant your empty baskets or tubs for winter colour, there’s plenty to choose from – Pansies, Violas including the new trailing Teardrop variety, Polyanthus, Heathers, Ivies and don’t forget to add a few spring flowering bulbs. Garden Centre’s now sell smaller-sized shrubs that are suitable for tubs and baskets and they can then be planted out in the garden next spring. These include Gaultherias, Lecothoe, Skimmias and grasses.

Geraniums and fuchsias can be trimmed back and potted up for the winter. Make sure that they

Pick early apples and pears as they become ripe. Eat the earlier varieties straight away,

There are many varieties of perennials available today and they make a cost effective alternative to summer bedding.

Buying perennials from spring through to autumn will give colour for many months of the year.

storing later ripening ones for later use. Cover autumn fruiting raspberries against birds. The old fruiting canes can be pruned out during the winter months as the autumn varieties fruit on new season’s growth each year.

Buy prepared hyacinth bulbs for Christmas flowering and plant them in bowls with Bulb Compost by mid-September. Give them a drink and put in a cool, dark place, bringing gradually into the light and warmth once the shoots are approx 3cm high.

We’ll soon be getting our overwintering onions, shallots and broad beans in stock, plant them as soon as you can and you’ll get an early maturing crop next year.

OPEN DAILY

Tel 01902 700209 Autumn Bedding plants available from September onwards Full range of Spring flowering bulbs in stock – all top quality bulbs Alpine and Herbaceous plants ready for planting now Trees, Shrubs, Roses available all year round

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

48

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Independently Better

Hinksford Lane, Kingswinford, West Midlands, DY6 0BH

LANDSCAPE & BUILDING SUPPLIES

CONTRACTS & FITTING DIVISION

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

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

• Display Area • Delivery service available

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

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

49

music concerts planned for Stourbridge Saturday September 20 featuring established local pianists. Matthew Davies, Tony Bridgewater, Richard Hall, Michael Jones, George Rowley, Janine Smith and Mike Smith will be playing their favourite piano pieces.

Local & Live, the Stourbridge based not for profit group of classical music enthusiasts, announce five concerts over the next 12 months.

Group Chairman Graham Smith said “we have put together an exciting programme of events involving local musicians of all ages – there really is something for everyone to enjoy”.

The season opens with the popular Piano Festival on

Fans of choral singing can go along on Saturday November 1 to enjoy Kidderminster Male Choir performing show songs, popular music and spirituals.

On Saturday 21 March 2015, Local & Live host a symphony orchestra with soloists Linda May, Tony May, Anna Downes and Gill Blanchard conducted by Stourbridge musician Tony Bridgewater. The Central England Ensemble will entertain with music by Bach, Bridgewater and Mozart – including his Marriage of Figaro Overture and Symphony number 40.

6 June 2015 performed by the Midland Fretted Orchestra.

The season ends with a performance by young music students from across the whole of the Borough when Dudley Performing Arts takes to the platform on Saturday 4 July 2015.

All the concerts are held at St. James’s Church Wollaston, Stourbridge 7.30pm. Tickets are £8 for each concert - on the door, or from Music Matters, Market Street, Stourbridge.

Under 18’s can get in free.

For more information go to www.localandlive.org.uk or telephone 01384 377162.

Guitar, Banjo and Mandolins will all feature in Zing Go The Strings – a concert on Saturday

Dave Russon Put the sparkle back into your oven with a call to your local Ovenclean specialist!

Before

Painter & Decorator Professional Painting & Decorating

After

◗ Interior & Exterior ◗ Reliable & friendly service ◗ City and Guilds Qualified Call your local Ovenclean specialist Andy Mountford on

07817 398052 www.ovenclean.com

50

£5 off* all oven cleans booked for Sept/Oct 2014 with this advert

For a free quote please call

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

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Does a Jacuzzi® hot tub have a warranty?

understanding your Jacuzzi® Hot Tub

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

Where should I place my hot tub?

Is a Jacuzzi® hot tub difficult to maintain?

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

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

Where is my nearest store?

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

Jacuzzi® is a registered trademark.

Who does the installation?

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

Rejuvenate.... WITH A GENUINE HYDROMASSAGE

FROM JACUZZI

®

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

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

*Offer applies to J300 and J400 models only. ®

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

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

51

Five of the biggest mistakes in business… and how to avoid them!

No business is ever perfect.

Mistakes and errors are all part of the learning curve; it’s how you deal with them and learn from them that count.

Here are 5 of the biggest mistakes commonly made by business owners, so you can spot them ahead of time and AVOID THEM! 1. No plan You would never get in the car to start a long journey to a new place without having a plan of how to get there – even if that was just switching on the Sat Nav! And the same is true in business, you can’t get where you want to be without having a clear plan of how you’re going to get there.

Try this - set some really clear goals about what you want to achieve and then plan the strategy and actions required to achieve them – and then read No 2!

2. No Action Success is about activity – you can read all the recommended business books, attend every training course available and set all the goals you like – if you don’t IMPLEMENT then you’re never going to get to where you want to be.

Dawn Owen

Try this - set aside some time each week to work on your business not in it. This is crucial to your success.

Sometimes we can get so bogged down in the day to day running of the business that we just can’t see issues right under our nose, or design new marketing strategies or work on developing ourselves.

do they go on holiday. Once you have done this you can target your marketing so it really ‘speaks’ to the right customer. You may have more than one target market, and that’s fine – just don’t try to speak to all of them with the same marketing.

3. No Help

5. No Systems

Don’t try to do everything yourself, you will need help, especially when you are trying to create time to get stuff done.

There is too much happening in any business to try and keep it all in your head. The sooner you have systems for everything, the better.

As a bare minimum you need a system for looking after customers.

Try this - think about what only you can do and what actually earns you money. Then think about what you hate doing and what you’re rubbish at and get some help with these things. Doing your books yourself probably takes you a lot longer than a professional book keeper!

4. No Target Market The general market of A&E (anyone and everyone!) is very crowded. When you don’t really know who you are targeting, your marketing is very generic.

Try this - describe your ideal customer down to the very last detail: - who are they, where do they live, what problems do they have, what do they read, where

Try this – get systems in place for bringing leads in, keeping them engaged, getting them to buy and following up. A CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system can do all of this for you and will reap you huge benefits. There are lots on the market and some require little or no investment.

Dawn Owen is a coach, speaker and trainer on the subjects of Referral Marketing & Mindset; helping business owners to leverage the power of their networks, grow their business by referral and get out of their own way!

Website www.dawnowen.co.uk Twitter @dawneowen LinkedIn uk.linkedin.com/in/dawneowen/ Facebook www.facebook.com/DevelopYourselfDevelopYourBusiness 52

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

NASH • C O N S U LT I N G • ENT

CLI

T

RKE

MA

Making the connection Print • Digital • Audio • Video

Content Marketing • Advertising • Public Relations Call Now 01384 277448 or 07947 159664 and find out what makes us different www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

53

Grapes and gifts galore at the vineyards

Struggling for ideas for places to visit this Autumn? Why not spend the day at The Vineyards, in Halfpenny Green?

The site near Bobbington, is home to a fantastic shop which provides an exquisite selection of food and drink. Their bespoke hampers, perfect gifts for friends or clients alike, are all made to order and are traditionally very popular presents. Available in a range of sizes suitable for all budgets, they are handpicked to meet your requirements, so you can be sure that the recipient will enjoy their fabulous gift.

Of course, the most important part of any vineyard is the wine that is produced, and this is no exception at The Vineyards. The range of wines has recently been expanded with reserve roses and red wines being introduced. For that special touch, bottles of wines can be personalised while you wait.

Next to the winery is The Wine House, a purpose built area for functions and corporate events with the option of added extras such as wine-tasting available, therefore offering an alternative to a standard hotel conference.

Gourmet Night. Upcoming dates for these popular occasions are 5th September, 3rd October, 7th November, 5th December and the glittering Christmas Gourmet Night, taking place on 19th December, which includes a five course meal and champagne reception.

Again, it is important to book in advance for these events.

The Vineyards is also home to idyllic, fully stocked fishing pools. Day and match tickets are available, as are vouchers, the perfect gift for the keen angler. For more information about fishing at The Vineyards, call Allan on 07905 031327

On site, there is also an excellent craft centre providing endless opportunities to purchase a wide range of gifts and services or even to visit the Owl and Falconry Centre. The pets corner, within the centre is much loved by children and provides the opportunity for a fantastic family day out.

If you would like to do something completely different, consider grape picking. The Vineyards is expecting a bumper crop this year and would welcome any help to harvest the fruits. For more information about this, please phone, 01384 221122.

There really is something for everyone at The Vineyards!

High teas are hugely popular at The Vineyards. Served daily between 2pm and 4pm, customers are given the opportunity to catch up with friends and family whilst enjoying a scrumptious selection of sandwiches and cakes. You may even like a glass of sparkling wine to make it a truly special occasion. Please note, high teas must be booked at least twenty four hours in advance.

If glamour is what you seek, you will find it at a Vineyard 54

For more information, visit www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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

Enjoy our new High Teas

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

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

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

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

christmas Bookings now Being taken September & October Midweek Deal

MID-WEEK BLACK COUNTRY SPECIALS

20% off

a la carte menu When you present this coupon Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings only.

Tuesday-Thursday

only £6.95

Served lunchtimes and evenings.

Bookings not required.

Normal a la carte menu available.

traditional sunday roast from £6.95 To avoid disappointment please book:

Situated at:

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

4a Upper Green Tettenhall WV6 8QQ Ample Free Parking

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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

55

56

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

kingfisher the

bar club room

SERVING TIMES MON - SAT 12 NOON - 9.00PM sunday 12 NOON - 7.00PM

A449 Kidderminster Road Wall Heath West Midlands DY6 0EN T: 01384 686000 E: kingfisher@inndividual.co.uk W: www.thekingfisher.club

food for sharing INTRODUCING OUR NEW WONDERFUL MENU Dishes Our new £1.95-£3.95

tapasmenu

from

A RANGE OF MOUTHWATERING DISHES TO SUIT EVERY CUSTOMER

Sunday Roast£6.95 Our new

per head

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

57

Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant Established 1989

Air conditioned

Cuisine of Bengal

Fully licensed



FOOD HYGIENE RATING SCHEME 2011

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

Christmas Day Menu now available...

Bookings now being taken for Christmas Day Lunch, Christmas Office Parties and Christmas Family and Friends Get-togethers.

Rafique Miah welcomes you to the longest established Indian and Bangladeshi Restaurant in Wombourne Village, serving sumptuous Bangladeshi Cuisine for over 25 years.

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

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

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

Tel:

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

High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DN 58

facebook.com/wombourne.tandoori

www.wombournetandoori.com

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

The Village Dudley

C

M

Y

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Hollywood Nights

CY

Festive Boogie Nights

£13 Lunch With Santa £20 Adult Children

25

Christmas Day

from

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£ per person

CMY

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45

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per person

MY

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from

£

.95

Overnight B&B accommodation based on 2 people sharing

0871 222 4584

from

Adult

Children

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49

from m

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Subject to availability – terms and conditions apply

TO book CALL

£

New Years Eve

per person

39 £19

from

VillageUrbanResort

@Villagedudley

Village Urban Resort Dudley, Castlegate Park, Birmingham Road, Dudley, DY1 4TB Calls to 0871 numbers cost 10p per minute plus network extras.

Fully Licensed

Air Conditioned

Car Park at rear of Restaurant

Contemporary Modern Dining at Sedgley’s Premier Indian Restaurant

Saffron Pink’s RestauRant R Rant

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

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

mas Christ kings boo party being now ! taken

To book a table please call

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

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

 FOOD HYGIENE RATING SCHEME 2011

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

Menu Rouge, 3 courses only £16.95

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

Gluten free and vegetarian dishes available

NEW WEBSITE NOW LAUNCHED! Look out for OUR SPECIAL EVENTS

CHRISTmAS PARTy BOOkINgS NOW BEINg TAkEN…

We follow the gascon tradition at Christmas and do not serve Turkey!

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

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

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

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town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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kingfisher A taste for tapas the

Just what exactly is ‘tapas’?

I know it sounds Spanish, but is it a Spanish dance, I wonder, as I make my way towards Kingswinford’s The Kingfisher bar and restaurant. A Spanish fighting bull, maybe? My mind continues to spiral out of control.

A Spanish dish, perhaps? I am on my way to a restaurant after all.

I may be riding in a car full of other people, but I am afraid to ask, because today I will be dining with my long-suffering girlfriend Nicola and my futurein-laws and I’d hate it if things went a little bit Meet the Parents.

Not wishing to play the fool for any longer and by this point convinced that I am definitely alone in my ignorance, I shuffle through my ‘Emergency Restaurant Reviewer Kit’ and

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let out an enormous sigh when I am confronted with salvation. ‘‘At the Kingfisher we are using the experience of our Spanish and continental chefs to introduce tapas to Wall Heath and Kingswinford. For those who have never tried tapas, we believe it should mean small portions of delightful, fresh food that can be shared between friends and family.”

So there you go, consider yourself enlightened from those in-the-know. Now back to what I can tell you. Upon arrival at the Kidderminster Road-based venue, the hungry Brit in search of something new and different from the pile-it-high-andfeed-’em-from-a-trough pub carveries which dominate Sunday luncheons is faced with firstly, ample parking; and secondly, a modern and recently refurbished façade which speaks of refined, relaxed and inviting dining within.

by Rob Taylor

My first impression is reaffirmed when inside: a fresh, well-lit bar and dining space, finished with exquisite attention to detail in both décor and tableware. Our party of four is seated quickly in the conservatory add-on and encouraged to peruse a menu jam-packed with a genuinely interesting take on familiar fare with a seasoning of the exotic.

But the future father of the bride is not impressed. He likes a roast on a Sunday and is not big on this “ethnic food.” Time for a little bit of the old Taylor charm.

So I will tell you as I told him, hungry reader, you see, at The Kingfisher Tapas does not preclude tradition. You can have your Sunday roast and eat it. As part of the venue’s renaissance Sunday roast is now served tapas style, in a “to-share” format which means it comes with a selection of two meats, hand-cut vegetables and even speciality gravy. And a

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Despite a busy room full of diners, the friendly and attentive staff are quickly on scene with drinks and a welcome review on ordering protocol. We elect for a smorgasbord of starters: Mixed Meats, BBQ Chicken Wings, Spicy Spare Ribs (all, £3.95), Garlic Bread (£1.95) and Grilled Sardines (£4.95). Delivered mere minutes later and placed onto a rotating serving board in the centre of the table, every dish is of substantial size and carries an appetising aroma. Even my choice - the sardines - don’t give me the dead eye. That’s coming from the other side of the table. Gulp.

Things improve however once we tuck in, each of us sampling every option and leaving nothing behind.

Feedback is very positive indeed - I found the starters tasty and a fine precursor to the meal proper.

Bring on the roast potatoes, I think. But - no - Mr Roast Dinner has had a change of heart, so it’s more of the same for the main:

Yorkshire pudding which is sure to put Aunt Bessie out of business.

He did, as I’m sure you are, seem pleased to hear this and I definitely scored some browny points.

Classic Fish and Chips (£4.95), Salted Cod and Potato Chips (£4.95), Croquetos Ibericos - croquettes with ham and cheese - (£3.95), Spicy Spare Ribs (£3.95), Champinones al queso Azul - mushrooms in blue cheese and herb sauce - (£2.95), Min-steak Kebabs (£3.95), Beer-battered Onion Rings (£2.95) and Curly Fries (£2.95).

We all enjoy the sharing aspect as no one person can smugly hog the best dish while endlessly telling everyone else how marvellous it is. You know what I mean. This way everyone gets a turn; those who are less hungry are satisfied; those who like to fill their boots can hoover up the remains with impunity. The portions are by no means small; no-one is left unfulfilled. Every dish I try is delicious. My group echo this with considerable force. The dainty fish and chips and the mushrooms and cheese sauce receive particular praise.

There’s a cornucopia of choices at the Kingfisher - even more during weekdays - and we really did try nearly everything. Even dessert: a well-judged Eton Mess (£3.50) and three lots of sumptuous Knickerbocker Glory (£3.50) to bring proceedings to a close.

I can only urge you to do just the same.

For more information or to book a table call 01384 686000.

A449 Kidderminster Road Wall Heath West Midlands DY6 OEN e: kingfisher@inndividual.co.uk www.thekingfisher.club

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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The Village Urban Resort, Dudley event, look no further than The Village Urban Resort, Dudley. The Hub provides the ideal business setting with nine meeting rooms and a dedicated meeting host, while the new contemporary Vibe suite, offers the perfect arena for your private celebration.

Fancy a city break with a difference? Well why not try The Village Urban Resort, Dudley?

Situated on the Castlegate business park in the centre of the town, the hotel is ideally located to explore all of the attractions the West Midlands has to offer. Pop into Birmingham City Centre and explore the shops, bars and culture the city has to offer, before returning to Dudley and experience the fantastic Zoological Gardens. You may even like to travel back in time and discover what life was like during the Industrial Revolution with a visit to the Black Country Living Museum, which is only a short distance away.

Stay in one of the comfortable standard double, twin, family or accessible rooms, or upgrade to an Upper Deck double, exclusively for adults. All rooms are en-suite and come equipped with free wi-fi, satellite TV and complimentary use of health club facilities at Velocity Health and Fitness Club.

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The Resort’s leisure facilities have something for everyone. For fitness fanatics, there is a state of the art gym to keep you in shape during your stay, or you may like to join in with one of the many group classes, including Tai-Chi, ballroom dancing, and Zumba.

Bring the children along for a splash in the 25 metre heated pool or have some time to yourself in the relaxing sauna or steam rooms.

If true relaxation is what you are looking for, consider booking a treatment at Viva Urban Spa. With treatments including a full body massage, holistic back, face and scalp treatments and reflexology available, you will be sure to leave the spa completely de-stressed.

If you have a special occasion coming up, you may like to be pampered to perfection by one of the fully qualified therapists who can offer everything from an eyelash tint, to a spray tan and even an ultimate non-surgical facelift!

After a busy day of shopping, celebrating, relaxing or even working out, you are going to be hungry so indulge in a scrumptious meal or snack in one of the hotel’s fabulous eateries. Have a light bite in our official Starbucks Coffee House, or enjoy some genuine home cooked food in the Victory Pub which also serves local ales. The new Verve Bar and Grill, opening on Saturday 21st September, offers freshly prepared British cuisine, including a delicious Sunday lunch, served by friendly, knowledgeable staff, in a contemporary, relaxing atmosphere. You do not even have to be a resident of the hotel to enjoy the restaurant and bookings can be made in advance to reserve your table.

So go on, treat yourself to a luxurious experience at The Village Urban Resort, Dudley.

For more information visit www.village-hotels.co.uk

If you are searching for a spectacular venue for a special occasion, wedding or corporate

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

New Restaurant

NEW MENU at Village Urban Resorts Dudley

Opens Saturday 20th September

Sunday from

Roast £

8.95

10 OFF

FREE Dessert* £ with every full priced Sunday Lunch

when spending £30 or more*

To claim your free dessert or £10 off the A La Carte Menu, please bring this advert with you to redeem.

To book call

0871 222 4584

Village Hotel Dudley, Castlegate Drive, Castlegate Business Park DY1 4TB *Terms & conditions apply.

Calls to 0871 numbers cost 10p per minute plus network extras. www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

www.VillageUrbanResorts.com65

rafters - as well as a private bar, plasma TV screens and a well-designed modern interior.

But enough of all that now, and forgive me if you consider me rude, but I’m here for the food. As I mingle among Wolverhampton’s glitterati, a delicious cornucopia of aroma assaults my senses from across the crowded room. Like some emperor from ancient Rome, I am endlessly dazzled with a smorgasbord of culinary delights; all freshly prepared by head chef Ashley Farren and his team.

Wolverhampton Racecourse

tasting victory Our editor Geoff Hall spends an afternoon out at Wolverhampton Racecourse - but leaves his betting money at home.

A visit to Wolverhampton Racecourse is always a thrilling experience. The crackle of anticipation before horses and riders emerge; the hustle and bustle to place last minute bets; the violence of the starting gate shooting open, the surge of bhp (brake horse power) as the runners drive from the line; and the euphoria which floods the senses like only finishing line drama can. And that’s just a regular experience at the races – this promises to be extra special.

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For on this occasion attention turns squarely to the new menu at the venue’s Horizons Restaurant.

As my partner Gisella and I - none other than the creative architects behind the very publication you hold in your hands - drive towards the Dunstall Park site I find myself licking my chops like a horse hungry for victory.

Inside the restaurant I find that my expectations are very quickly met, as waiting staff are already bringing forth drinks and appetisers: the perfect beginning. After a quick hello from Managing Director David Roberts, the food takes centre stage.

But first, just a quick reminder that the restaurant enjoys spectacular panoramic views of the racecourse - complete with new Tapeta racing surface - from its seat in the grandstand

Among the tastiest of the servings, which constitute the best bits from the racecourse’s new summer and autumn menus, are ‘smoked salmon and spring onion fishcakes’, ‘red pepper and goats cheese parfait with red onion marmalade’, ‘rare roast fillet of beef with cracked black pepper and horseradish cream’, ‘baked vanilla cheesecake’, ‘chocolate brownies with hazelnut praline’, and ‘lemon posset with blackcurrant compote’.

Artistically presented, each dish impresses on arrival. Every mouthful is delicious, and the combination of flavours blend together perfectly to leave me only wanting more. Happily I am reminded by my better half, Gisella that this afternoon is really just a sampling session designed to stimulate the taste buds, rather than to flatten them. It is merely a precursor to the resumption of the racing season, before the site gets back into full swing with regular racing and popular attractions like Ladies’ Evening.

The two of us are already keen to return for a full-on night out - when excitement will be unleashed not only from the restaurant kitchen, but on the track as well.

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

PAC KA FRO GES M

£31 .95

*

LIVE SATURDAY MUSIC

After Racing

SATURDAY 13 SEPTEMBER MADNESS TRIBUTE BADNESS

SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER SOUL & MOTOWN WITH SOUL’D OUT

SATURDAY 27 SEPTEMBER GEORGE MICHAEL & WHAM TRIBUTE

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

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

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

67

Weddings – the reception Whatever else happens, it is really the reception that can make or mar a wedding.

People have certain expectations and if they are not realised, no-one is really happy - except the bride and groom who are usually quite oblivious to anything else going on around them. So what makes a wedding reception memorable (for the right reasons)? There is the food of course, and its presentation together with the ambience of the venue. It follows therefore that choosing the reception venue and selecting the food and drink are very important matters.

First of all, you must know how many guests will be attending, or at least have some idea of the numbers, if not the exact list.

Next you must have some idea of your budget. Wedding costs can run away with themselves if you don’t take care, so set a budget and be prepared to stick to it. Armed with these you can set forth to examine the possibilities.

The choice is huge. There are hotels, club and pub reception rooms, restaurants, church and community halls, country clubs, and a whole variety of less usual places such as theme parks, stately homes, river cruisers, some of which may be certificated wedding venues, and of course, that good old standby - the marquee in the garden. Lists of certificated venues may be had from your local Register Office. The others can be located by personal knowledge, recommendations from friends or advertisements.

Whichever you choose you must visit before you book. Obvious?

Well you might be surprised how many people will book a venue and only visit it just before the booked date, with very mixed results.

You have to look for certain very definite things when booking for a wedding reception. Start with the size of the main room. If it’s too large for the number of guests the party will inevitably split into two factions - her guests and his. They will then sit or stand looking at each other like some opposing army lined 68

up for battle. On the other hand, if there is insufficient space everyone will get in everyone else’s way and general irritation will be the result.

As well as the number of guests of course, you must consider how the room will be used. If it is purely for a meal with tables set up formally in the prescribed fashion, then as long as there is enough room for the tables and for people to move about around them, that’s all you have to consider. If there is to be dancing or entertainment after the meal, then either space for this must be allocated or perhaps a separate room provided into which everyone can go when the meal is finished.

A slight complication can be presented by the choice of a buffet meal because the food is usually set out and left for the duration of the event. Now in sophisticated gatherings such as weddings you see depicted in films, everyone helps themselves as the spirit moves them and then, plate in hand, they circulate. Reality is quite different. At the majority of receptions where a buffet is provided, guests will, after much prodding (no-one will want to be first), stand in an orderly line, help themselves and then, with plates piled high (no-one will wish to be seen having seconds), they will search for tables and chairs at which to sit and eat in almost total silence. The whole business will be complicated by children visiting the table at frequent intervals (they don’t suffer from embarrassment as adults do), helping themselves to this and that and returning unrelished items to the (wrong) dishes! So deciding whether to have a sit-down meal or buffet will depend very much on knowing your guests and understanding how they will react. Without this knowledge it is very hard to decide on the size of room to book.

Some venues provide in-house catering facilities, some do not. If the latter is the case and you are booking an outside caterer it’s wise to be sure that there is a place from which the caterers can arrange and serve their food. Bar facilities are important too. If the venue provides a full bar service or an outside bar is being provided by a local publican, make sure it will be functional for the duration of the reception. It can be off-putting if the reception goes on till midnight and the bar closes firmly at 10 or 11pm. If the wedding party is running the bar make sure someone responsible is put in charge - preferably a non-drinker.

Whatever size or style of room you do choose always check on the following: Is the room air conditioned and if not, is there sufficient ventilation? If it is to be a winter wedding, is there sufficient heating and can it be easily adjusted? Is there somewhere secure for guests to leave outdoor clothing? Are there sufficient toilets and are they conveniently situated in relation to the reception room? Will there be sufficient car parking, again at a convenient distance from the reception room? This is important to assess because some venues rely on public car parking at some distance away. If a marquee is being hired ask about furniture, heating, lighting and a Portaloo. Few domestic premises have sufficient lavatories to accommodate 20, 30 or more people at an event.

Finally whatever type or style of reception you decide upon, don’t leave the organisation too late. As soon as you know the date of the ceremony, establish the budget; decide on the number of guests, then get on with arranging that reception. You really can’t arrange it too far in advance.

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

kingfisher

A449 Kidderminster Road Wall Heath West Midlands DY6 0EN T: 01384 686000 E: kingfisher@inndividual.co.uk W: www.thekingfisher.club

the

bar club room

THE

KINGFISHER WEDDINGS

ARE NOW PROVING MORE POPULAR THAN EVER! We are continuing our 2014 package next year and into 2016.

Where for £2016 we will supply you a whole wedding!

The price includes: master of ceremony, Bucks Fizz drinks on reception, up to 60 sit down 3 course meal of your choice, up to 100 evening with a large selection buffet, white linen, napkins & seat covers, a disco & DJ.

ROOM 4HIRE multi media

large

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Proms • Christenings • Funerals • Birthdays • Corporate •

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our gaming room will be open everyday from 12-3pm for all young gamers out there.

We ALSO OFFER XBOX PARTIES WITH 12 x-boxes and screens, a dance floor and music to support a great party atmosphere.

Suitable from 10 people upto 300 people per head

Prices from £3.95 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Terms & Conditions Apply

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

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

IMAGE

LUXURY TRAVEL FOR ALL OCCASIONS

C h auffe ur Dr i v en • G ol d Serv ic e • Lu x ury C a rs

• Wedding Hire • Airport Transfers • Concerts

• Anniversaries • Proms • Birthdays

• Sporting Events • And any other Special Occasion Contact: Keith Warner

01902 847145 or 07772 605764

Based in Codsall

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email: ossie.keith1966@googlemail.com

www.wolverhamptonchauffeur.co.uk town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

commemorating Wolves legends Billy Wright and Stan Cullis.

As an extra incentive to celebrate your special day with us we are offering one lucky couple the chance to win our wedding prize draw.

Book your wedding to win Molineux stadium is no ordinary venue, home to one of the founder members of the Football League, Wolverhampton Wanderers, for 125 years.

The stadium has 11 licenced rooms that can host civil ceremonies for 10-275 people, some with stunning views over the pitch where history has been made.

Your wedding breakfast and evening receptions can follow, with us able

to accommodate parties of up to 275 with a three course sit down meal followed by an evening buffet.

We offer a number of packages to suit budgets and guest lists, as well as personal tastes and our dedicated events team will work with you to make your day as perfect as the vision you have of it.

As part of your package we can allow access to pitch side for photographs, as well as the iconic backdrop of the exterior of the stadium and statues

Would you like free chair covers for your reception, a Wolves legend to pop along on the day to say hello and help you toast your special day and to top it all off a trip to our directors box on the nearest match-day to your first anniversary – a dream come true for any Wolves fan.

All you need to do to qualify is book your wedding before 31st January 2015 and you will be entered into the draw.

Weddings must be booked before 31st January 2015 but can take place after the date.

We would love to invite you to come and view our facilities, meet our events team and discuss how we can help you plan your perfect day. Call 0871 222 2220 (option 5) or email weddings@wolves.co.uk

Weddings @ Molineux Book your wedding between now and 31st January 2015 to enter a draw to win: • Free chair covers for your reception.

• A visit from a Wolves legend to congratulate the happy couple and pose for photo’s.

• A visit to Directors Box for the Bride and Groom at the nearest game to your first wedding anniversary.

weddings@wolves.co.uk corporatewolves.co.uk 0871 222 2220 option 5

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Hair and make-up for your wedding day

‘Petals of Eternity’ Hair Flower £68 Glitzy Secrets

by Helen Taylor Planning is key to ensuring that your skin, hair and make-up look absolutely flawless on your wedding day, so get started now.

Here’s a few things to consider: 1. If you want your skin to look radiant on your big day, then it’s essential to adopt a good skin care routine months in advance. That means cleansing, toning and moisturising morning and evening, regular exfoliation and treating your skin to frequent facials. And remember, eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of water is a must for beautiful skin.

2. Whether you’re having your makeup professionally applied, or doing it yourself, it’s essential to use quality products which have staying-power.

Wear all of the cosmetics you’re considering using for a whole day, so that you can see how well they last.

3. Remember that your skin changes with the seasons. You must plan your make-up according to the season that you’re getting married in to ensure the finished result looks right - tan skin requires very different colours and products to a wintry, ivory complexion.

‘Vintage Rose’ Side Tiara £105 Glitzy Secrets

4. Much like your skin, your hair needs plenty of attention well in advance too. If you want the flowing, glossy, head-turning tresses of your dreams, then get to your stylist immediately for a good trim. Getting rid of any damaged, split ends will make your hair more healthy and help it to grow, ready for your big day.

5. Find a hairstylist you’re happy with. It’s worth using the same stylist for some time before your wedding day, so that you can be sure that you trust them to be able to create the look you want. It’s also helpful for them too, because they’ll be familiar with your hair and will know what suits it best and how successful particular styles will be. This is particularly important if you have problem hair, or hair that is very curly or unruly.

Olivia’s Beauty Salon has got just the thing for brides-to-be. Their amazing Dinair Airbrush Make-Up is perfect for special occasions and just the thing for your big day.

Favoured by celebrities everywhere, the airbrush foundation sits on your skin to produce an even, flawless - sheer or opaque - finish that will look immaculate and last all day long.

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town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

For the perfect

Wedding Experience the Scenery Breathtaking scenery and professional staff.

Patshull Park Hotel Pattingham WV6 7HR

www.patshull-park.co.uk email: sales@patshull-park.co.uk

For a personal visit please call 01902 700 100 and ask for the sales team

Excellent food and friendly service.

Wedding Fair

Packages for most budgets including ‘off peak’ offers.

Sunday 28th September

A perfect day tailored to your specific requirements.

11am – 3pm

Look Amazing For Your Special Day At Olivia's we now have the amazing Dinair Airbrush make up. This revolutionary airbrush make up is what celebrities use before red carpet events and the industry use for television and commercials.

From the classic natural bride to the more dramatic smokey eyes bride, with Olivia's expertise and Dinair makeup we can make you look amazing on your special day!

Covers Red spots, brown spots, any spots, blemishes, even dark circles under your eyes!

You'll look bright, awake and alive at any time of day.

For further details or to book please call 01902 335355 50a Warstones Road, Penn, Wolverhampton WV4 4LP www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

www.oliviasbeauty.com 73

Struggling to get an appointment with your GP?

When you are busy trying to juggle home, work and family, it is important to be able to access a doctor and other medical services rapidly and at a time convenient to you.

The Private GP Service at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital offers a convenient service that enables you and your family to receive the help and advice you need at a time to suit you.

The service is run by local GP’s Dr Chris Hadley and Dr Manjit Kainth who have many years of experience between them. The doctors are experienced in all aspects of medicine and have a variety of special interests to cater for most medical needs.

A speedy service with minimal waiting times One of the advantages of being based within the hospital is that we can usually arrange for investigations such as blood tests, x-rays and scans to be done at the time of consultation or the following day.

We can also refer to any one of the wide range of specialists that consult at the hospital if needed.

Private GP Services We offer a full range of direct access GP services similar to those available at your local NHS surgery, but with the flexibility to fit around your schedule. No registration with an NHS GP is needed.

One of the most important things the GP service can offer you is the GP’s time. The GP

is happy to give you time to discuss your requirements.

Our services include: • Diagnostic Imaging (including ultrasound, mammograms, CT and MRI scanning) • Physiotherapy • Pathology on site • Pharmacy on site • HGV Medicals/Taxi Medicals • Blood Tests • ECG’s • Prescriptions • Referral to consultant specialists Costs A 30 minute consultation with one of our GP’s cost £95, with additional fees if tests/treatments are required. You will be made aware of any additional costs before any tests/treatments are undertaken. Some insurance policies may cover consultation fees and investigations (if you have medical health insurance please check with your insurer first).

Any medicines required will be prescribed on a private prescription redeemable at any pharmacy.

You will pay the cost of the drug plus a small dispensing fee.

It is our policy to write to your NHS GP (assuming you have one) after each consultation to ensure your continuity of care. However, if you would prefer that we did not, your wishes will be respected.

Our GP’s Dr Chris Hadley, MBBS, BSc (Hons), MRCGP, DRCOG Dr Hadley qualified in 1988 and completed his training at the University College of London. He

is a GP trainer and has been a GP partner for 19 years. Dr Hadley has been a clinical assistant in dermatology for seven years.

Dr Manjit Kainth, BMBS, BMedSci, MRCGP, DCH, DRCOG, DFFP, PGDip Cardiology Dr Kainth qualified in 1998. He provides leadership for the multidisciplinary team which spans across his practice. He gained his post graduate certificate in cardiology which further enhanced his cardiology skills so that he is experienced in the history taking and examination of cardiology cases. He has an excellent understanding of all non-invasive cardiology investigations.

Dr Kainth is the GP adviser to the Black Country cancer network which has improved his understanding of cancer diagnosis and has helped him to optimise diagnosis of cancer within his own practice and has helped other GP’s in primary care. Dr Kainth sees patients for medical legal examinations and all types of medical examinations including HGV/taxi medicals.

We’re waiting to hear from you If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment with one of our friendly, professional GP’s, please contact us by phone on 01902 585544 or email wolverhampton. enquiries@nuffieldhealth.com Get The Nuffield Treatment! www.nuffieldhealth.com

This article was provided by The Nuffield Health Group www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals 74

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Private GP Service

Available weekdays at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital

Struggling to get an appointment with your GP? The Private GP service at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital offers a convenient service that enables you and your family to receive the help and advice you need at a time to suit you.

For more information please contact: 2

2

01902 585 544 Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 8LE wolverhampton.enquiries@nuffieldhealth.com

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

1679_Wolverhampton_private gp AD.indd 1

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

08/08/2014 11:22

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Look and feel amazing at Wollaston Beauty Clinic

The team at Wollaston Beauty Clinic already know that the products they use are the best, but now it’s been confirmed by the ‘Beauty Bible Awards 2014’.

Luxury spar brand, ESPA has scooped six awards from the prestigious and best-selling Beauty Bible series, which brings together everything a woman needs to know about looking gorgeous and feeling great using highly natural products.

exceptional results while working in harmony with the body.”

ESPA’s products came out on top in the following categories: Best Eye Make-Up Remover - ‘Bio-Active Eye Cleanser’, Best Face Mask -‘Lift & Firm Mask’, Best Rejuvenating Eye Treatment - ‘Lift & Firm Eye Serum’, Best Face Oil - ‘Replenishing Face Treatment Oil’, Best Uplifting Bath Treatment - ‘Restorative Bath Oil’ and Best Body Oil ‘Soothing Body Oil’ - which are all available to buy at the salon.

“Our ESPA facials and body wraps will leave your skin looking radiant, nourished and moisturised, and you’ll feel utterly relaxed.”

The products were tested by 2,400 women before being awarded the accolades.

And there’s long been a fantastic selection of ESPA products available at Wollaston Beauty Clinic, as well as luxurious and highly effective treatments, as owner Rachel Ward explains:

Wollaston Beauty Clinic offers incredibly relaxing ESPA aromatherapy facials, as well as indulgent body scrubs and wraps - including mud, skin-hydrator and detoxifying algae varieties.

There’s plenty of other treatments and products on offer at Wollaston too: “We offer a full range of beauty services and products, including: HD Brows, Dermalogica facials, Shellac manicures, Minx nails, St Tropez spray tans, as well as specialist treatments like, semipermanent make-up, dermal fillers and IPL laser hair removal.”

Everything that you need to look gorgeous and feel totally amazing is ready and waiting for you at Wollaston Beauty Clinic.

“We’ve been a stockist of ESPA for a long time now. As a creator of the worlds finest spas, ESPA has successfully pioneered the science of natural beauty in a range of radically effective formulations.”

Using only the purest ingredients and extracts, their products deliver instant and lasting results for women of all ages, with all different skin types and requirements.

Rachel Ward (owner) and Jenny Birch (salon manageress)

“We are thrilled that such a large number of women agree that ESPA is succeeding in its mission to create luxurious, natural products that provide

To celebrate we are giving away your choice of either a soothing body oil worth £30 or a lift & firm eye serum worth £55 when you buy 2 or more products from the ESPA range, while stocks last.

There’s also a chance to enter into a free draw to win all six products if you pop in and fill out an entry form.

76

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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

77

A sizzling summer - but what price do we pay for the tan?

Until recent weeks it’s been a sizzling summer where supermarkets have run short on barbecue provisions and cold beers have been secreted into every corner of kitchen fridges.

With temperatures pushing up to 33C it’s certainly rivalled the heat in the Greek Islands, Italy and France. Indeed, it’s been a scorcher where sunworshippers have taken the rays in gardens, parks, on beaches and any other suitable public space.

But as new weather fronts push into the UK delivering less indulgent climes, it just may be the right time to check out our biggest organ – skin.

Taking time out with leading cancer consultant KhaleeqUr-Rehman BDS, FDSRCPS, MBChB, MRCS (Gen Surg), FRCS (OMFS) is an enlightening experience.

Sipping coffee in the comfortable lounge at Medi Visage on the Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton, the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, who specialises in oral and skin cancer and facial reconstruction, passionately delivers a warning to sun-lovers.

“Skin and oral cancer are both on the increase and exposure to too much sun is one of the main causes along with smoking and alcohol respectively.

“No-one likes to admit there may be anything wrong, but often early diagnosis of small changes in skin colour and texture can head off major surgical procedures.

“We provide consultant-led assessment and diagnostic services for non-healing ulcers in the mouth and skin as well as lumps and bumps.

“Melanoma is on the increase and I’m amazed that people do not present to us until it’s too late.

It’s so aggressive, so it’s essential that pigment lesions that suddenly change get checked out.

“What’s the colour? Is it dark? Is it multi-coloured and is it growing? Anything that grows needs to be checked and with my colleague, consultant dermatologist Dr Hamdi Hamad, it would literally take us 30 seconds to say whether it needs further investigations. We’ll do a biopsy and no time is wasted.

78

Neck lump

“Caught at an early stage, it can save lives. “ With an encyclopaedic knowledge decanted in layman’s language, Khaleeq, who is part of the multidisciplinary cancer team at the city’s New Cross Hospital, stresses that his approach is always a compassionate one.

“Dealing with cancer patients demands a sympathetic approach. Unlike a lot of other conditions, with cancers I tend to have long-term relationships with patients.

Over a minimum five-year period I like to get to know my patients. Trust is essential in my work and I need to build a rapport with those whom I treat,” he adds.

Medi Visage business partner, Bibi Dodd, says: “We have a very strong medical team here that also includes principal of Total Implant Solutions, Jon Pugh BDS MSc (implant dentistry).

“A suspect mole or a skin blemish that is raised or growing are generally much easier to deal with if, like all cancers, they are caught early.”

Basal cell carcinoma on nose

Early diagnosis is essential – Cancer consultant Khaleeq-Ur-Rehman BDS, FDSRCPS, MBChB, MRCS (Gen Surg), FRCS (OMFS)

“Our service provides a fast-track approach to dealing with some very serious health issues and the beauty is that people can self-refer direct to consultant level. They can literally just call us or walk in to make an appointment.

“There’s no triage system and all patients are seen by our specialists. We all love the sun and most take advantage of it when it’s out. May be now is a good time to check out your skin.”

Malignant melanoma

Lentigo malignan

Tongue cancer

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Fun in the sun Is it time to get your skin checked for damage?

• Surgical and non-surgical therapies • Our service is consultant led • Skin cancer screening service • Facial aesthetics – anti-wrinkle treatments • First clinical assessment with consultant • Maxillofacial surgeon Mr Khaleeq-Ur-Rehman BDS, FDSRCPS, MBChB, MRCS (Gen Surg), FRCS (OMFS)

Consultant dermatologist Dr Hamid Hamad

To learn more CALL NOW

01902 429586

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

79

Bringing the best beauty treatments to you - Olivia’s beauty There are three brand new and very exciting treatments - that have just arrived at Olivia’s Beauty. Here’s the low-down on each of them: FaceFrame 3D Eyebrows A completely new invention in eyebrow enhancement, FaceFrame 3D Eyebrows works to turn sparse brows into perfectly shaped, thick and full eyebrows, thanks to the careful application of synthetic hairs directly onto the skin. It’s the only product on the market that can create a 3D look.

Well defined eyebrows serve to frame the face and can have a great anti-ageing effect by lifting, softening and aligning the facial features.

After just one treatment you’ll see a difference, thanks to the facial’s instant action formula.

A combination of five products are used in this special facial: Kiwi Skin Perfect Cleanser & Exfoliator, Dermatone Tonic, Hydrating Ampoules, Cellular Tightening Masque and Cellular Lifting Serum. Although each is a fantastic product on their own, when combined in a facial they work together to create an impressive lifting and tightening

action that makes skin feel taught and leaves it looking fabulous with a healthy, youthful glow.

These powerful products contain innovative ingredients, such as DNA and glycoproteins that help to re-firm the skin, augmenting production of fibroblasts, collagen and elastin. As a result the skin will appear firmer and feel tighter and they’ll be a visible reduction in lines and wrinkles.

The treatment can lengthen, thicken, add colour and definition to any natural brow and it can create a totally natural looking eyebrow for those with little or no eyebrow hair.

FaceFrame 3D can offer a temporary option for those suffering from alopecia or hair loss through medical conditions.

It can be used over scarred skin and semi-permanent make-up procedures too.

The treatment can last up to 14 days, depending on lifestyle and homecare. It’s water, moisture and sweat proof, and is suitable for all skin types.

Silhoutte Derma lift - Instant Lift, Instant Tightening and Lifting Facial Developed to combat the signs of ageing - like loose, sagging skin, fine lines and wrinkles -this instant, results driven facial works to restore tautness and add lift to the skin.

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BEFORE USING 10 CRAZY WRAPS

Crazy Wrap Thing The Crazy Wrap (Ultimate Body Applicator) is a non-woven cloth wrap that has been infused with a powerful, botanically-based formula to deliver maximum tightening and toning when used anywhere on your body.

The wrap can help you to lose inches off your arms, legs, stomach, bottom and even your neck. It tightens, tones and firms, whilst minimising cellulite

AFTER USING 10 CRAZY WRAPS

appearance and improving skin texture and tautness.

It’s mess free and made with all natural parts and its active ingredient works over a 72 hours period to transform your body.

If you want to achieve fast results and get rid of those annoying inches on specific parts of your body - without losing weight all over, then the Crazy Wrap Thing is just perfect for you.

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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A course of treatments for only £299 *MENTION THIS ADVERT WHEN BOOKING AND GET 10% OFF A COURSE OF i-lipo TREATMENTS *Valid for September and October 14 only

Sit back, relax and be pampered

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

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

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

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Mocha Waterfall Cardigan £35 Lipsy Cable Knit Jumper £35 Lipsy

Faux Leather Waterfall Jacket £60 Lipsy

82

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

first look at autumn fashion

By Helen Taylor

Fur Collar Biker Jacket £149 Mint Velvet

Light Grey Leather Jacket £195 Wallis

There’s nothing more exciting in the fashion world than the start of the autumn season.

That’s because the high street fills-up with an irresistible selection of clothes, shoes and accessories that are just perfect for the cool days ahead.

And 2014’s autumnal offerings look to be just as interesting as ever; here’s our pick of some of this season’s must-have buys:

Ivory Rib Jumper £45 Monsoon Boucle Gilet £30 Next

‘Tippler’ Boots £129 Dune

‘Tirrent’ Boots £129 Dune

Acid wash ripped jeans £24.99 New Look

‘Victoria’ Coated Jean £69 Phase Eight Floral print scarf £69 Ted Baker at House of Fraser

Black studded tote bag £395 Michael Michael Kors New Coeur de Lion Collection Necklace £119 Earrings £49 Bracelet £55 now in at T.A. Henn ‘Grosvenor’ Medium Acrossbody Bag £249 Radley

Trio of Bracelets from £45 each - introductory offer now on in store!

Endless Jewellery - new and exclusive from T.A. Henn

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

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

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

83

The remarkable creative power of dental implant surgery Health data tells us that oral health in the UK is increasing and television advertising is now heralding the possibility of a cavity-free generation.

But although figures are encouraging the fact is that millions of adults throughout the country will suffer tooth loss.

As well as being unattractive and embarrassing it can also be painful and have a hugely corrosive effect on lifestyles and self-esteem – for too many, a silent taboo that doesn’t get resolved.

A catalogue of often heart-rending stories have emerged as patients have arrived at Total Implant Solutions in Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton, seeking help.

There was the case of a sales director who confessed to bullying his dentist to extract all of his teeth to end years of misery, but then suffered decades of problems with ill-fitting dentures.

Following dental implant work that secured his over-dentures he was able to indulge again in his favourite pork crackling and enjoy social encounters with a renewed confidence.

Jon Pugh BDS MSc (implant dentistry) GDC 62663 in surgery carrying out an implant procedure

There were also the cases where implant therapy enabled an elderly patient who was starving to death to eat properly; the health professional, an enthusiastic singer, who quite literally found a new song in her life; the remarkable clinical outcome of a patient who had been tormented by crippling trigeminal nerve pain for years. With the clever use of implants Total Implant Solutions principal Jon Pugh BDS MSc (implant dentistry) GDC 62663 was able to bridge the nerve trigger point and now she is free from the debilitating discomfort.

Solutions without using dental implants have been around for long time – indeed, bridges, full dentures and partial dentures have provided excellent options.

Bridges, however, require healthy adjacent teeth to be filed down increasing the odds that they could fail and removable dentures present their own stabilisation problems. Even an excellent, harmonious initial fit does not guarantee future comfort as gums shrink though the natural ageing process, presenting a need for revised prescriptions every few years A tried and trusted, accessible dental science, implants can successfully resolve a catalogue of dental issues from single tooth replacement to complete sets of prosthetic teeth.

Business Development Manager Bibi Dodd says: “We regularly see patients who not only 84

get the smiles of their dreams with us, but find renewed confidence and self-esteem.

“Indeed, there is strong clinical evidence that long-standing emotional difficulties have been improved dramatically by implant surgery with patients reporting marked improvements in life quality after treatment.”

Clearly, the preferred method of tooth replacement is implant treatment. The fixings are effective substitute tooth roots and form a stable foundation for permanent replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth.

And there are numerous advantages over other treatment options. For instance, it is not necessary to grind down adjacent teeth for bridges, or secure a partial denture to teeth with clasps that can eventually loosen them.

Those missing all of their teeth are spared the many problems associated with traditional dentures.

Research reveals that as little as two lower jaw implants will significantly stabilise a prosthetic.

A similar procedure can secure upper teeth.

The result: No more fixatives or pressure spot discomfort, restored chewing ability, improved diet, no more further jaw bone erosion and a natural-looking, aesthetically pleasing smile.

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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

Rebuilding smiles Redefining lives Come and meet our renowned dental implant surgeon Jon Pugh BDS MSc (Implant Denistry) GDC 62663 for an initial complimentary consultation and find out what creative implant therapies can do for you.

Telephone 01902 420654 for a complimentary consultation

An Independent Dental Practice

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

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

85

Pedmore, Stourbridge

• Wardrobe Consultations • Personal Style Shopping • Personal Shopping Brought to your Home • Gift Vouchers Available • Trained at NHJ Style Academy in London • Affordable prices - 4 hour wardrobe consultation from £80 - 4 hour personal shopping trip to Birmingham £120

• Online consultations Please contact Sharon Dickens to arrange a face to face consultation or for further details

Tel: 07920 574485

email: sharondickens55@gmail.com

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

20% off hair extensions for September and October 14* Add volume, length, colour or curls, the choice is yours.

Connect Hair Extensions are used by many A-List celebrities and socialites in the know. (Suitable for most hair)

September Special Only £30 for a cut, colour, wash and blow/dry. Available Wednesdays and Thursdays*

*Both offers are available only when mentioned at time of booking and on presentation of advert.

One voucher per person, no photocopies and not in conjunction with any other offer.

To book a free consulation call Paul on (01902) 765975 1a Brantley Avenue, Finchfield, Wolverhampton WV3 9AP London • New York • Melbourne • Paris • Sydney • Wolverhampton 86

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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

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

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

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

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

“A unique

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The UK’s most advanced NON-Surgical Solutions

Now available

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

aUTUMN oFFeRS for only £440*

10 course Treatment £550

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

Due to demand we have extended our Trial offer for September 2014

1 Full Facial Treatment

£55 for only £27.50

*To be booked by 30th September 2014, first treatment can start after this date.

To book your free consultation

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

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

87

Star quality - Lew gets the last laugh with failing teeth Lewis Carrington was born to be a star. A natural funnyman, he won the nation’s hearts in the TV documentary Grimefighters.

Known as Lew to his friends, he laughs easily as he recalls his brush with fame and as the unlikely adopted ambassador for the city of Wolverhampton.

Topping 1,500 members of his Grimefighters’ Fan Club on social networking website Facebook, Lew had his supporters clamouring for him to appear in the New Year’s Honours list.

Still a well-known character on the streets of the city four years after sharing his unique take on life before the cameras, Lew is now enjoying retirement from his life of grime and a cameo appearance on Harry Hill’s Get Toasted.

But hidden beneath the smiles and priceless one-liners, the jovial comic genius was struggling with another often-comedic subject – dentures.

And indirectly, the former environmental waste operative owes his celebrity status to an ill-fitting set of them. “I could have retired from the council earlier, but wanted to save enough money to get my problem fixed,” says Lew. Wife Gill adds: “He’d seen the stories in the papers about how other people had their problems sorted out and had also done a lot of internet research.”

Lew, aged 67, of Wednesfield, was cared for by Steven Burchell Dip CDT RCS(Eng) GDC108353, principal at the Denture Clinic and Jonathon Pugh BDS MSc (Implant Dentistry) GDC 62663, principal of Total Implant Solutions in Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton.

The two clinicians share a longstanding working relationship.

Says Lew: “I was using a bucketload of fixative just to keep my teeth in. They’d be okay for half-an-hour and then they’d be dancing all over the place.

“My top denture wasn’t too bad, but the lower moved all around with eating and talking. I’d had the trouble for years – probably since 88

TV Grimefighters’ star Lew Carrington – over the moon with his new teeth

the 80s – every time I’d have a bit of tough steak, I was done for.

at the end of the drive. I looked everywhere and couldn’t see it.

“I was a bit apprehensive, but I need not have been. I had two implants and I was absolutely fine.

“There was a charity collection going on in the road where people had left clothing in bags for pick up by a van driver. By the time I’d found out that the cat had been put into a white bag, it had been collected by the charity and the van was disappearing down the road.

“Steve made me the over-dentures for the bottom and a new top set of teeth. They are absolutely perfect and the service I had was first class. Nothing was too much trouble for any of the friendly staff.

“Going to the dentist had never been so good and I am over the moon with the results.”

On his star role in Grimefighters, Lew recalls: “There were some funny moments. We’d had a call to pick up a dead cat in Penn Fields. They said the animal was

“Somebody was going to get a surprise,” adds Lew with a wry smile.

Steven says: “The denture stability problems Lew experienced are common and by using a couple of implants it’s a guaranteed resolve. He certainly has been one of our more colourful patients.”

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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You’ve seen the stories, heard of the transformations in the Press and if you’re reading this, then you’re probably experiencing denture problems yourself, or know someone who is.

A whole catalogue of problems can emerge for denture wearers when the prescription is just not right. For many of the thousands of patients cared for at the Denture Clinic, their journey to find a solution at the Dudley practice has been a long one.

For some, their research is thorough and they arrive clutching newspaper cuttings of lifechanging dental narratives. Others come out of desperation, having dispatched their prosthetics into the back of a drawer as hopeless.

But there’s a chorus of agreement with many patients: “They wish they’d sought the clinics special interest treatment sooner,” says principal Steven Burchell DipCDT RCS(Eng) GDC108353.

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Clinics at Dudley, Wolverhampton, Bearwood and Kidderminster www.denture-clinic.co.uk email: info@denture-clinic.co.uk 89

crystal healing courses

So how does crystal therapy work?

Many people underestimate the power of crystal therapy and do not comprehend the benefits regular treatments can have. Crystals, when used by a skilled therapist, have an extremely beneficial effect on all of the levels of our being. Crystal therapy can quiet an anxious mind, soothe physical pain and relieve mental stress, to name but a few.

The crystal therapy course Our course will give the student more flexibility with their study, allowing them to complete the course within 18 months. It is suitable for all – for those

with no prior experience within complementary therapies, for those who have dipped into, attended workshops and talks, for those already Suzanne Taylor practicing as therapists within their own field of work, but also for those who have attended college courses to learn crystal therapy and wish to expand their learning further. The course content expands the awareness of the student. Through the practical application of crystal therapy understanding and awareness of energies and forces expands. It also has an effect upon the spiritual progression of the student; because of our techniques in meditation, understanding and awareness of the subtle energy systems of the body and their interplay with daily life. Our aim is to teach the student to work with confidence and ability.

Knowledge of the chakra centres, their psychological function, the impact on our environment and effects on the physical body are key to our ability to bring about healing.

CRYSTAL HEALING COURSES Serenity Academy of Healing have now finalised their long awaited course in Crystal Healing.

The course will run from September 20th/21st through to early 2016.

Other dates to be confirmed shortly. So in all 12 weekends over approximately 20 months.

*£125.00 Per Weekend

*£50 non-refundable deposit will secure a place.

Please email Suzanne@auraveda.co.uk for a booking form and for further details and methods of payment.

Alternately you can contact us on 01384 936277

www.auraveda.co.uk 90

41 High Street, Kinver DY7 6HF town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Specialist arthritis therapy at H2O Physio Arthritis affects around 10 million people in the UK and many underestimate the seriousness of this crippling condition.

Now imagine exercising in the warm water of H2O Physio’s underwater treadmill. It’s easy to get into – you simply walk in and the therapist selects an appropriate water height and treadmill speed for your personalised programme.

Sufferers endure joint pain and stiffness that can eventually lead to mobility problems and even disability. As a progressive disease, it’s extremely important to take control of symptoms early to maintain a good quality of life.

H2O Physio has developed some truly innovative aquatherapy techniques that provide all the advantages of effective exercise without putting stress on joints.

Although there’s no cure, there are plenty of ways to manage the condition and lead a normal life. Exercise is key as the less mobile you are, the worse your symptoms will become.

Circulation deteriorates, muscle mass diminishes, you lose both strength and endurance, and elasticity in the tendons and ligaments reduces. It’s a downhill spiral and in arthritis terms, you lose percentages of your joint.

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Chartered physiotherapist, Davinder Chatha, who heads up the organisation says: “Our specialist programmes offer patients considerable relief and produce some profound results. We see many people suffering from arthritis and have a successful formula for treating the condition.”

Retired Managing Director, Peter, developed osteoarthritis in both knees and recently had surgery to replace one of them. He went to H2O Physio for rehabilitation after his operation and to extend the life of his remaining arthritic knee.

Arthritis sufferer Peter

“My sessions have really helped me to manage my symptoms. I’m in less pain and the inflammation and joint stiffness is so much better. It’s a welcome relief after suffering for years”, Peter reports.

H2O Physio treats a wide range of conditions and is currently offering free trials on the underwater treadmill.

Website: www.h2o-physio.co.uk For further information, please contact Vikki Dober on 07811 519283 or vikkidober@gmail.com

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Why this ‘ordinary bloke’ is signing up for a 3D-Lipo experience I’m the first to admit I’m no oil painting and certainly not fashion savvy.

But as a not-so-rugged outdoor pursuits type I do need to maintain a degree of fitness to tackle some of the challenging Cumbrian fells and tempting Snowdonia mountains.

As the years encroach the need for bodily maintenance appears to be ever present. Healthy diet, healthy lifestyle, fewer beers, more water, extra exercise and less snoozing on the sofa while watching an endless catalogue of TV reruns is becoming a lifestyle thing.

Back in May I decided it was right to call time on excess and begin a fitness and weight-loss regime in an attempt to scale mountains a little less breathlessly. And who knows, with a new svelte-like figure I may just be able to successfully stalk a few more trout while hiding behind the odd twig or two.

Truth is, I’m far happier in the great outdoors and now at 60 years of age have an urgency like never before to preserve my ability to continue enjoying this kind of lifestyle.

I have seen too many contemporaries willingly embrace the years. Frankly, I’m all for defying the cruel magician of time for as long as possible and the cathartic nature of my humour-fuelled Facebook diet diary has served well to remind me that generally we are the sum total of our own choices.

Secretly, I believe we all want to be different to what Mother Nature dispensed – maybe younger, taller, shorter or with less excess in the places we cleverly try to disguise.

During the last weeks, the urban ‘gym’ has been central to my workout routine, pushing myself to achieve better times and improved recovery rates.

But I appear to have come to a weighty impasse after losing more than 2st.

I am now seeking the help of scientific technology care of Medi Visage to shed another stone (or two).

It’s a unique occurrence that combines the name of not-so-image-conscious John Nash with body contouring in a single sentence. In my wildest of improbable imaginings I would never have thought of considering embarking on a 3D-lippo course. But I need a fast-track resolve on my diet as I head for a target weight and a Christmas publishing deadline for my Father Facebook Diet Confessional, a collection of my social media musing, loosely defined as gastronome memoirs. And I’m acutely aware too, that this kind of therapy is for ‘ordinary blokes’ just like me – vertically challenged, overweight and balding – as well as for those in pursuit of the Perfect Me. 92

I’m certainly not brave enough, or sufficiently financially equipped, to undergo full-blown liposuction, so for me this none-invasive therapy offered by a highly-reputable practice wins hands down.

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

But the same results can now be achieved without such an invasive approach. I don’t do blood well and the idea of someone attaching the equivalent of a medical vacuum cleaner to a needle in my stomach has me running a mile.

3D-lipo – here I come. I’ve done my homework, read the reviews and spoken extensively to Medi Visage partner Bibi Dodd.

Look out for my next article on my 3D-lipo experience.

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

Says Bibi: “It’s excellent to have our media man John Nash as a client. He’s a self-confessed non-conformist and he’ll be the first to admit his fashion sense has changed little since he bought his first desert boots and Levis.

“It does, however, send out a strong message that 3D-lipo procedures are for countless other people just like him and we’d love to meet them.”

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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Is being a patient making you impatient?

One of the most difficult aspects you face from today’s National Health Service is waiting for treatment.

What’s even worse is that often a major part of this process is when you are put on a long waiting list for a specialist before your treatment can even begin. The result? Your anxiety and worries grow as you wait for the appointment letter to drop through your letterbox.

Waiting for appointments can be a frustrating and stressful period for many. The longer the wait, the worse your symptoms seem to get. This painful fact of life has recently led people to take out private medical insurance to enable them to ‘jump the queues,’ but for many people this option is unaffordable.

However, most people are unaware of a much simpler, more 94

affordable way to gain quicker access to see a specialist.

Unlike private medical insurance, a Paycare healthcare benefits plan is an everyday insurance. These plans allow an individual to receive cash back on healthcare bills; such as having a consultation or tests carried out by a specialist.

Seeing a specialist privately, allows you to get fast diagnosis, prompt treatment and avoid unnecessary worrying when having to wait for an appointment on the NHS. The idea of a benefit plan is to help make every day health treatments affordable and available on your terms that fit around your life, your job and your family.

Paycare has been providing healthcare cover since 1874 and offers a range of plans to support its customer’s needs. There are many plans to choose from which cover individuals, families, seniors and the corporate market. A typical Paycare Plan protects you against the costs of dental, optical,

chiropody, specialist consultations and tests, professional therapies, hospital cover, day cases and many other benefits. All plans include unlimited access to a 24 hour counselling and help line service for when that extra support or advice is needed.

In most medical practices having to wait for tests and treatments is sometimes unavoidable which may lead to patient dissatisfaction.

Having a healthcare plan can help improve patient experience by allowing them to receive treatment at the right time.

If you would like to find out more about healthcare benefits plans and what Paycare can offer you please visit www.paycare.org or call 01902 252265

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Adoption in the Black country We know that when people start thinking about adoption and make contact with us, or come along to an info event, they are usually very keen to hear from other adopters.

So we are giving a fresh look to our adoption coverage here and providing a snapshot of one of our adopter’s stories.

This month Paula, aged 47, tells us her story.

Have you ever thought about

“At the information event we attended there were loads of people our sort of age and older!

“We’ve both got grown-up children from our previous relationships who are at university doing their own thing, and we wanted to be parents again, together.

“We’ve just adopted two little boys and we’re all so happy.”

“One of my friends had adopted with Adoption in the Black Country and they said how good the process had been.

*names/ image altered to maintain anonymity

“Barry and I didn’t get married until we were in our late 30s. We’re now in our mid 40s and we thought age might be a barrier to adopting. I’m pleased to say it wasn’t the case.

adopting a child?

There are children who need families right now.

They need a family like yours.

Come along to one of our informal information evenings for a chat.

Our next evening starts at 6pm on 8th October 2014 Village Hotel, Castlegate Way, Dudley, DY1 4TB Freephone 0800 073 0597 www.adoptionblackcountry.co.uk info@adoptionblackcountry.co.uk

in the Black Country Birmingham & Telford

For more information about adoption please come to our next information event on 8th October at The Village Hotel, Dudley or visit the website www.adoptionblackcountry.co.uk

Kinver rotary club elects new president Roger Stephenson, of Stourton Crescent, Stourton, is the new President of the Rotary Club of Kinver.

Roger joined the Brierley Hill club in 1988, chairing various committees and undertaking the post of president before transferring to Kinver when the Brierley Hill club folded four years ago.

Born and bred in the Kinver area, Roger attended Brierley Hill Grammar School and 96

University College Cardiff before entering the accountancy profession working with various local firms, in industry and for the NHS.

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town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Complimentary open events with Nuffield Health Throughout September and October, the Nuffield Health Wolverhampton hospital (based in Tettenhall) is running three complimentary open events, designed to give potential patients as much information as they need to help them to decide which procedure is best for them.

The ‘Varicose and Thread Veins’ event is taking place on Thursday 18th September, 6pm until 7pm.

This session will give patients the opportunity to have a 10 minute, one to one, discussion with Consultant Vascular Surgeon, Mr S Hobbs to discuss their personal needs and to find out what treatment is available.

The ‘Managing Orthopaedic Upper and Lower Limb Pain’ event is taking place on Thursday 16th October 2014 at 7.00pm.

This open evening will be hosted by our Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeons and Physiotherapists

and gives you the opportunity to come along and meet our consultants and physiotherapists, hear about the services we can offer and gives you the chance to have your questions answered.

The ‘Let’s talk Varicose Veins’ event, is being held on Thursday 23rd October at 7.00pm. This open evening is being presented

by Mr S Hobbs and fellow consultant vascular surgeons Mr T Gardecki and Mr A Garnham.

You will have the opportunity to listen to a short presentation and ask questions to find out more information about the options and treatments that are available to you.

All of these events are complimentary! We have plenty of parking on site. Light refreshments will also be available. So why not take advantage of this opportunity to meet our consultants, gain new

information and have your questions answered by the experienced team at the Nuffield Wolverhampton?

Don’t wait, book your place now!

Contact us on 01902 793259 or email us on wolverhampton.enquiries@nuffieldhealth.com

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Saturday 16th August 2014 marked the 1st anniversary weekend of the Kingfisher Bar | Club | Room re-opening.

It was a great crowd with twins Michelle and Marie also celebrating their special birthday. Guests were all in good spirit and treated to live entertainment with Housejammerz and a disco well into the early hours.

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Dee & Russell Brian.

Robert & Hayley Brasenell.

Steph Cronin & Jay Grazier.

Michelle & Philip Bush.

Mark Newey & Marie Bridge.

Zol Cox & Sam Spittle.

Leanne Love, Kate Love & Kay Morgan.

8. Carys Gutteridge & Jade Barnes.

9. Chris Amer.

10. Becky Southall, Lee Sheldon & Lauren Grazier.

11. Clare & Steve Glazier.

12. Clive & Mandy Gennard.

13. Phil & Debbie Stacey.

14. Nicola Perry & Michelle Bush.

15. Sally Cassidy & Scott Bryan.

16. Lesley Wright, Bryn Jones & Nicola Wright.

Looking for advice on cosmetic surgery?

Book a FREE 10 minute one-to-one chat with a consultant at our next cosmetic events on Monday 8th September and Tuesday 21st October 2014. Please call 0845 603 4346 to book your place.

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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Stourbridge golf club

Many former stars of Midlands football turned out at the Captain’s Charity Golf Day at Stourbridge Golf Club to help raise funds for Promise Dreams.

The event raised ÂŁ4,000 for the charity.

Members who participated in the day were drawn to play with a former player from Albion, Wolves or Blues before tackling 18 holes in the afternoon sunshine.

1. Dave Butler, Jack Lovatt, Joe Mayo, Campbell Crawford (all ex WBA players).

2. Graham Danks, Nigel Degge, Pete Leighton.

Former Wolves and Manchester City star Steve Daley entertained a packed room in the evening with his hilarious after dinner routine.

3. Keith Baldwin, Mike Harris, Frank Worthington (ex Birmingham City, Leicester City and England).

4. Kevin Edwards, Rob Norton, Rikki Aulton.

Looking for advice on cosmetic surgery?

5. Rob Jones, Dave Homer, Jeremy Skingley.

6. Richard Jones, Max Perrins, Steve Hancocks.

7. Andy Thompson (ex Wolves & Albion), Don Goodman(ex Wolves & Albion), Rob Walsh.

8. Kenny Hibbitt (ex Wolves), Willie Carr (ex Wolves), Steve Saul.

9. Mel Eves (ex Wolves), Steve Daley (ex Wolves), Phil Parkes (ex Wolves).

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Photos courtesy of Hodgkiss Photography

Book a FREE 10 minute one-to-one chat with a consultant at our next cosmetic events on Monday 8th September and Tuesday 21st October 2014. Please call 0845 603 4346 to book your place.

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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101

Education and Schooling

by David Williams - Headmaster of Tettenhall College As I write the summer holidays are beginning to draw to a close but there still remains the opportunity to make the most of the long stretch of time available to the average British school child.

To cast a shadow over this freedom from school, a debate in recent years has focused on a so-called “learning loss” taking place due to the time away from the classroom.

This absence allegedly leads to schools having to catch up on material or vital skills that have gone from a pupil’s mind whilst they are stagnating on a beach in Cornwall or Majorca. The cry has been for more school terms and frequent, shorter holidays to maximise capacity for learning.

Aside from pointing out that this theory is a little flawed, many of our European high-achieving neighbours and indeed the UK independent schools which are consistently at the top of league tables choose to have longer

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holidays. Along with many of our counterparts, we make sure that our pupils are challenged and stretched with long days in term time with advice and tasks for those approaching the important public examination years. However, I would wholeheartedly support a fellow head’s advice for the holidays of the 3Rs: “read, reflect and recharge”. Further details are to be found in the Daily Telegraph’s “heads’ hot holiday list” in which 50 head teachers give their advice on how best to use the summer break.

I will leave you to peruse this, but an interesting and consistent thread among the worthy reading lists and places to visit is a conscious decision or period of time to not game, use social media, look at a screen or mobile device.

Perhaps this is one for parents to act on in the remaining weeks?

This particular head would not dare to advise on the best way to spend one’s time in the holidays but can only recount how he spent his time recharging. After a house move and as a newcomer to the region, I wanted to discover the West Midlands. So where better to do so than from the peace and

tranquillity of its canal network?

After a journey of 74 miles and 105 locks taking us through the Heart of Central England, I can thoroughly recommend this as a great week’s holiday and a way of broadening one’s horizons, whether it is an appreciation of our industrial heritage or the natural beauty of the countryside. It also did prove a relatively screen-free time with family members having to pull together in the strenuous business of dealing with Wolverhampton’s 21 locks and enjoying each other’s company in the confined but surprising comfort of our narrow boat, where the world seems to be happening in another place.

However, one observation that I will take to the new term will be as a learner myself. With my 30 minutes tuition on handling the boat and the numerous rules and regulations of life on the water, I was taken aback by the speed in which certain fellow boaters of a certain age would point out my errors. My defensive reaction acted as a reminder that this is not the way in which you encourage someone to achieve and persevere with an activity or subject.

That aside, this was an enriching-and enjoyable experience and this pupil will be returning to Tettenhall College more knowledgeable than when he left in July!

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

...things become more exciting when you take a closer look...

Thursday 25th September 2014 10:00am - 1.00pm and 5:30pm - 7:30pm Saturday 27th September 2014 10:00am - 12:00pm Telephone 01902 751119 • Email admissions@tettcoll.co.uk Tettenhall College is a Senior School and Preparatory School for girls and boys from ages 2-18 years.

www.tettenhallcollege.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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10K runners asked “are you tough enough?” lanes circling the village and suggesting they “try it and support a great cause” Serious distance runners around the Midlands are being challenged by the Rotary Club of Kinver to prove they are tough enough to tackle the club’s annual 10k run.

Posters for the BodyKraft 10K Kinver Challenge are asking “Consider Yourself Tough Enough?” to complete the gruelling course along the country

Costs of staging the event, have already been covered by main sponsor BodyKraft of Pensnett, supported by Dudley Motor Company and Kidderminster asbestos management specialists Safeline, will be held on Sunday October 5 in aid of Action Heart.

More than 200 runners are expected to take part, with scores of youngsters taking part in a family 2k fun run on the same day.

Entry forms can be found on the Action Heart website www.actionheartrunning.com

The Royal School Wolverhampton

Your personal invitation to our next Open Day Friday, 26 September,10am - 3pm Saturday, 27 September, 10am - 1pm

www.theroyalschool.co..uk Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV3 0EG

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Tel: 01902 341230

mo@royal.wolverhampton.sch.uk

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Old Swinford Hospital AN OUTSTANDING BOARDING SCHOOL EDUCATION

OPEN MORNINGS

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

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

01384 817325 admissions@oshsch.com

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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

4.00pm or 6.00pm

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

www.oshsch.com 105

learn to swim with South Staffordshire’s swim academy

South Staffordshire’s Swim Academy offers local people of all ages the opportunity to learn to swim for health, safety and for fun.

The academy which operates at all four of south Staffordshire’s leisure centres has a lot to offer: • High quality swimming tuition at affordable prices • Lessons from 3yrs up to adults • Beginners and non-swimmers to advanced standards • Good teacher/child ratios • Lessons run throughout the whole year to ensure continual progression • Assistants in the water to aid weaker classes and give additional support for swimmers What else makes us special?

• Our swim teachers are professionally trained • We follow the STA’s International Learn To Swim Programme – one of the most successful ranges of learn to swim and aquatic courses in the world • Above all, we make learning to swim FUN, PROGRESSIVE, INCLUSIVE, SAFE and AFFORDABLE.

Learn To Swim with South Staffordshire’s Swim Academy

This means that everybody is: • Encouraged to enjoy themselves • Motivated to improve • Taught step by step with rewards at every level • Supervised within a safe environment • Given the opportunity to develop all four swimming strokes What’s more, those who enrol get: • FREE swimming for those who pay by Direct Debit • FREE Success Tracker • One to one lessons available on request (extra charge)

FREE Adult or Child Swim Pass Voucher valid until 31st October 2014



Learning how to swim is a crucial life skill and one that everyone regardless of their age should learn to do.

Terms and Conditions: Voucher gives holder 1 free swim during a public swim session. Voucher cannot be redeemed for use in swimming lessons.

Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Adult to child ratio’s apply for under 8’s. 1 voucher per person, per publication. Voucher must be presented at reception. Contact your leisure centre to check swim times.

Name……………………...................... Postcode.........................

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

Please Tick: Adult................. Child.................

Town & Village Life Magazine – September Edition

• High quality swimming tuition • Affordable prices and pay scheme • Lessons from 3yrs up to adults • Beginners and non-swimmers to advanced standards

Codsall Leisure Centre 01902 844032 Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre 01922 417790 Penkridge Leisure Centre 01785 714152 Wombourne Leisure Centre 01902 898202

www.sstaffs.gov.uk/leisure GET YOUR FREE SWIM PASS ABOVE 106

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Registered Charity Number 512387

The Grand Canyon Challenge

The Grand Canyon is an enormous gorge a mile deep, up to 18 miles wide and 277 miles long, carved out by the Colorado River. The distances are deceptive and the scale unimaginable.

On this challenge in the state of Arizona, we descend into one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, the heart of the Grand Canyon at Havasu Canyon where we will trek and explore this incredible landscape, discovering turquoise pools and sleeping under the stars camping.

7th - 15th October 2015

This exciting challenge takes you into one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders and ends with a day in Las Vegas to celebrate your achievements.

Find us on

0845 2255 497 or email fundraising@compton-hospice.org.uk www.compton-hospice.org.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Get into Golf!

Learning with a group of friends for a fun start to a lifetime’s enjoyment on the fairway.

With the night drawing in and weather getting cooler the golf course will be less available soon. However, if you want to use the autumn and winter months to learn to play in a bright, friendly and fun atmosphere our Driving Range & Golf Academy is the ideal place for you!

We have a team of fully qualified PGA Coaches who know the benefits of a simple instruction and making sure everyone learns the basics at their own pace.

We also recognise the challenges that the time to learn can appear to bring with it. So we now offer a rolling programme of coaching on that means you are not obliged to attend every week or miss out. Rather you can attend 6 sessions, for just £30, over a 12 week period to suit yourself. We are confident that working with a friendly group alongside our PGA coaches you will soon gain the confidence required to play this great game for years to come.

To register and more details go to www.hagleygolfpro.co.uk or call 01562 883852.

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

golfcoach@hotmail.co.uk or call 01562 883852 quoting ‘town and village offer’. town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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in PerfecT cOnDiTiOn fOr imPerfecT cOnDiTiOnS

xDriVe

Weather and road conditions can change in a flash.

To make sure you’re prepared, we have an intelligent four-wheel drive system that responds just as quickly. With BMW xDrive, you can still enjoy maximum driving pleasure even on difficult road surfaces such as mud, gravel or snow.

Optimal traction at all times.

Taking the torque to where it has maximum effect – a simple idea that the intelligent BMW xDrive four-wheel drive system puts into practice masterfully. It distributes the engine torque to the axles in a

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intelligent four-Wheel DriVe from bmW

fraction of a second so that they can achieve maximum traction.

The intelligent fourwheel drive system.

With the BMW xDrive four-wheel drive system, each axle uses its traction to the maximum. Your BMW provides stable acceleration out of bends. If – particularly in adverse conditions – more torque has to be applied to the road, that’s when Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) comes into operation. In addition to improving traction, the system also recognises the first signs of oversteering and understeering.

Within a tenth of a second it distributes up to almost 100% of the engine torque to the front or

rear axle via the transmission and an electronically controlled multipleplate clutch before returning to the normal 40:60 distribution ratio.

With this technology, BMW provides an intelligent four-wheel drive system with all the benefits of four-wheel drive: precise handling, optimum cornering and a clear separation between the engine and steering.

Dynamic Performance Control.

Dynamic Performance Control (DPC) in the BMW X6, BMW X6 M and BMW X5 M ensures unique cornering performance.

Thanks to the smooth distribution of torque between the rear wheels,

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

traction and handling improve.

This allows you to take bends with greater precision – and accelerate out of them with optimum grip.

with BMW xDrive, Dynamic Performance Control enhances agility and dynamics on any surface.

The result is precise driving characteristics, regardless of the road conditions. In combination

An increasing range of BMW models already have xDrive and therefore offer greater traction on

BMW xDrive models.

all road surfaces. xDrive is now available on the following models: The BMW 1 Series 5-Door The BMW 3 Series Saloon The BMW 3 Series Touring The BMW X1 The BMW X5 The BMW X6

Contact Benham Wolverhampton for more information: www.benhambmw.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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A Family Affair Rob Taylor plays the name game behind the wheel of the new Skoda Rapid Spaceback Choosing a name for a newborn child is the first nightmare of parenthood. Get it wrong and your kid will be bullied. Get it right and your offspring will enjoy a life of joy and prosperity.

You can be lazy and American and add a ‘Junior’ to your own moniker, or be upper-class about it and add just so many forenames - being sure to name-check each and every illustrious forebear - that the child’s birth certificate will span two pages. Or do neither and stick a pin in the phonebook.

Skoda - and its parent company Volkswagen - has found itself in the “family way” a lot recently and now it’s given birth to the new Rapid Spaceback: a mid-sized, mid-range hatchback-cum-estate which is even more attractive than its sibling saloon variant.

Even though the Rapid name might imply blistering speed, this is not the logic behind the car’s nomenclature. So it’s certainly not literal, as in the case of the Skoda Superb, which is indeed, ahem, superb. There are no clues to be found when examining the rest of

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the Skoda range either: the Fabia is the feminine form of the Latin Fabius. The Octavia shares similar etymology. Both are girls then, obviously. The Citigo is tiny and ergo just a baby; the Yeti is a wild child; the Roomster, a groovy 1960s teenager. Hmm, all very confusing.

So I shall now be a lot less inquisitive and instead concentrate on what I do know. The Rapid Spaceback looks stunning with its zeitgeist nose, elegant coachwork and well-proportioned footprint - it’s undoubtedly the pick of the litter.

It drives and rides well; the 1.2 litre TSI petrol engine - available in 85 and 104 bhp guise - never runs out of puff despite any onboard load.

With steering which communicates just the right amount of feedback without being verbose, the Rapid is lively when revved yet still frugal enough to average fuel economy figures into the mid-fifties.

Inside the Skoda is a thoroughly relaxing place to be; like visiting a favourite B&B, everything is reassuringly familiar and never pretentious. The switchgear is tactile and robustly-built: the seats are well finished in soft-touch, durable fabric; the kit is generous and in SE specification there’s cruise control, air-conditioning, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth

and 15” alloy wheels. Option the Style Pack and you get a sexy panoramic glass roof.

But beyond all this attentiongrabbing addenda there is detailing which makes daily life with a car so much easier and which makes Skoda more thoughtful than most manufacturers. I’m talking about the little things like carrier-bag hooks in the boot, a reversible boot floor (fabric/ easy-clean plastic) and an ice-scraper inside the filler cap.

Your family in the rear seats will enjoy copious head and leg-room compared to conventional norms and cup-holders in the centre armrest to boot. This car really is a family affair. And that’s before you even get to the boot itself which has the lowest rear-loading sill in its class and is 415 litres large or 1380 litres with the seats folded down. This stuff really matters when it comes to long-term ownership.

So there you have it: in the Rapid there’s an awful lot of space in the back. I guess the name Spaceback must be literal after all. And with the range starting at just under £14,000, it’s certainly a lot cheaper than bringing up a child.

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

WHY PAY DEALERSHIP PRICES TO SERVICE

YOUR RENAULT? MINOR SERVICE £89* ALL INCLUSIVE

Servicing with us at Four Ashes will not affect your Manufactures Warranty. We also service all other Renault models out of the warranty period.

FULL SERVICE £149* ALL INCLUSIVE

www.fourashesrenault.co.uk MOT NOW OPEN FOUR ASHES ACCIDENT REPAIRS LTD ALL IN-HOUSE FACILITY OFFERING A FULL RANGE OF BODYSHOP SERVICES

FOR ALL MODELS AND MODELS! Including: * Accident and Insurance Work * Full and Partial Resprays * Scratch and Chip Repairs * Alloy Wheel Repairs

Had an accident, in need of a respray?

Give Us A Call!

11 Reg Vehicles (3 years old) - Your MOT is (or soon will be) due - Check your date of registration on your vehicle log book.

• MOT testing arranged • Large stoock of new and used parts • Computerised diagnostic (main dealer equipment) • Accident/mechanical repairs & insurance work undertaken • All work is fully guaranteed!

• Courtesy Cars free of charge • Pick up and Drop-off service* • Servicing while you wait *conditions apply, please call for more details

WITH ANY SERVICE

£25 *All models over 3 years old and out of Renault warranty period. Prices start from as listed.

Please call for more details and exact price for your vehicle.

09 Reg and 59 Reg Vehicles DONT FORGET YOUR CAM/TIMING BELT! Most Renaults require Cam/Timing Belt change at 72,000 miles or 5 years (whichever comes first).

Cam/Timing Belt failure will result in serious engine damage, so make sure yours is changed at the correct intervals. Call us for more details.

FOUR ASHES RENAULT SPECIALISTS Station Drive, Four Ashes, Wolverhampton WV10 7BU

01902 790123 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Adoption Services Adoption in the Black Country 96 Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel Image Luxury Travel 70 Appliances Electrical/Gas Capital Appliances 37 Geoff Hill 31 Artificial Lawn Supply & Installation Nevermo 43 Awnings Castle Blinds 33 Bathrooms Eaton Kitchens 24 Roman Bathrooms 21 Wall Heath Bathrooms 18 Beds & Bedroom Furniture Cousins 6/7 Interiors Italia 16/17 Sofa Factory Outlet 9 Woodrobes 11 Blinds/Curtains Castle Blinds 33 Love your Blinds 29 Total Sewing 19 Val Hever Blinds 21 Virgo Carpets & Interiors 35 Beauticians Hayley’s Beauty Boutique 87 Olivias 73/81 Wollaston Beauty Clinic 77 Building & Maintenance Contractors Build a Solution 18 Three Pines 5 Building Societies Dudley Building Society 101 Business Branding & Websites The Studio 97 Carpets & Flooring (Supply & fit) N D Walters 13 Car Sales/Service Benham BMW 116 ETB 109 Four Ashes Renault 113 Consumer Protection Service Approved Trader 53 No Rogue Traders Here 45 Cosmetic & Beauty Clinics Medi Visage 79/93

Debt Collection Services JB Credit Services Dentistry Denture Clinic Total Implant Solutions Education Oldswinford School Royal School Tettenhall College Entertainment & Leisure South Staffs Leisure The Grand Theatre The Kingfisher Village Hotel Wolverhampton Racecourse Fencing & Gates OCL Profence Fireplaces/Stoves Flaming Fires Wolverhampton Fireplaces Furniture/Furnishings Cousins Interiors Italia Sofa Factory Outlet Virgo Carpets & Interiors Garage Services ETB Four Ashes Renault Gardening/Landscaping Lealans Garden Centre MDK Garden Services OCL Galleries/Gift Shops Stourbridge Galleries Golf Clubs/Tuition Hagley Golf Club Pro Shop Haberdashery & Wool Total Sewing Hairdressing Salons Stargaze Health Care Cover Paycare Holistic Therapy Aura Veda Hospices Compton Hospice Hospitals (Private) Nuffield

96 89 85 105 104 103 106 115 2/56 59 67 49 47 13 24 6/7 16/17 9 35 109 11 48 47 49 25 108 19 86 95 90 107 75

Hot Tubs Webbs of Wychbold 51 Interior Designers Total Sewing 19 Virgo Carpets & Interiors 35 Kitchens (Supply, design & fit) Dream Doors 23 Eaton Kitchens 24 Roman Bathrooms 21 Oven Cleaning OvenClean 50 Painters/Decorators Dave Russon 50 Personal Shopping/Wardrobe Consultant S J D Personal Styling 86 Photography Steve Fisher 70 Physiotherapy H2O Physio 91 Plant & Machinery Hire MSM Plant 44 PR & Advertising Acrobat Media Associates 53 Print & Design The Studio 97 Renewable Energy Systems Green Source Renewable Energy Systems 41 Restaurants/Pubs Bravaccio’s 55 French Connection 60 Halfpenny Green Vineyards 55 Kingfisher 56/57 Patshull Park 61 Saffron Pink 59 Village Hotel 59/65 Wombourne Tandoori 58 Resuscitation & Clinic Skills Training Diamond Resuscitation Services 104 Theatres The Grand Theatre 115 Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Vineyards 55 Wedding Venus/Function Rooms Kingfisher 69 Patshull Park 73 Sir Jack’s 71 Windows & Conservatories August Home Improvements 27 Choices Windows 15 Hayley Windows 11

Puzzle Answers Sudoku:

Easy

Quick Crossword:

Hard

Word Search: Hidden Phrase: You learn something new everyday.

Anon.

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town & village life magazine | september/october 2014

Great Theatre at the Grand!

TUES 14 - SAT 18 OCTOBER

FRI 19 - SAT 20 SEPTEMBER

“A Cast of 40 hit the peaks of performance”

“The vocal performances were excellent throughout”

(Birmingham Mail, The Sound of Music 2012)

(Express & Star, Carousel 2013)

TUES 21 OCTOBER - SAT 1 NOVEMBER

TUES 4 - SAT 8 NOVEMBER A TOURING CONSORTIUM THEATRE COMPANY AND ROYAL & DERNGATE NORTHAMPTON PRODUCTION

‘A brilliant novel.

Intense and subtle’ Sunday Times

Follow us on

@WolvesGrand

Like us on Facebook: Wolverhampton Grand

Box Office 01902 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

42 92 12

BOOK ONLINE AT www.grandtheatre.co.uk

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bmw economics

benham wolverhampton

the Ultimate driving machine

Peerless engineering.

Unrivalled Payment. bmw 116i sPort 5-door sPorts HatcH From £225 a montH (PlUs dePosit*).

The BMW 116i Sport comes with a high level of standard specification including BMW EfficientDynamics, a 6.5" colour display screen, iDrive controller, DAB Digital radio and 17" alloy wheels. Thanks to BMW Economics, there really is no reason to settle for anything less.

For more information or to arrange a test drive†, call us on 01902 457000 or visit www.benhambmw.co.uk

benham wolverhampton

Lever Street, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV2 1AD

bmw economics.

Official fuel economy figures for the BMW 116i Sport 5-door Sports Hatch: Urban 38.7mpg (7.0l/100km).

Extra Urban 60.1mpg (4.7l/100km). Combined 50.4mpg (5.6l/100km). CO2 emissions 131g/km.

Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions.

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*Initial payment £3,299. Price shown is for a 48 month Personal Contract Hire agreement for a BMW 116i Sport 5-door Sports Hatch, with a contract mileage of 40,000 miles and excess mileage charge of 5.40p per mile. Applies to new vehicles ordered between 1 July and 30 September 2014 and registered by 31 December 2014 (subject to availability). Retail customers only. At the end of your agreement you must return the vehicle. Excess mileage, vehicle condition and other charges may be payable. Hire available subject to status to UK residents aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Terms and conditions apply. Offer may be varied, withdrawn or extended at any time. Hire provided by BMW Financial Services (GB) Limited, Bartley Way, Hook, Hampshire RG27 9UF. We commonly introduce customers to BMW Financial Services. This introduction does not amount to independent financial advice. †Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.

town & village life magazine | september/october 2014