Wolverhampton West Magazine - April 2019 by Jonathon

Wolverhampton West Magazine Local Magazine delivered to 25,000 Selected Homes and Businesses*

Great Prizes to win! ■■ Tickets to see

Club Tropicana The Musical at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

■■ Premier Enclosure Tickets

at Wolverhampton Racecourse

■■ Family pass for

West Midland Safari & Leisure Park

April 2019

Delivered to areas of: Codsall, Codsall Wood, Oaken, Bishops Wood, Tong, Coven, Brewood, Compton, Tettenhall, Claregate, Finchfield, Castlecroft, Penn, Merry Hill & Bradmore

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CONTENTS

20-21

12 The local property market by Nick Berriman 16 Carvers Wolverhampton Marathon Events 20/21 Home Interiors: A new hue for your home 24 Former Wolves stars support local charities 32 Crosswords & Puzzles 34 Friends of Bantock House Museum and Park 38 Recipe of the month 44 Grand Theatre Competition 48 Gardening with Ann Winwood 58/59 Celebrating 30 Years in business – The W-ton Skips story 64 West Midland Safari Park Competition 68 Discover Dudley 70/71 Paycare in the community 74/75 The Sweet Taste of Success for Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 80/81 A fresh new look at The Shrewsbury Arms 82 Wolverhampton Racecourse competition 84/85 The Oakley Arms food review 90/91 Bridal Fashion Show 100/101 Beautiful hair for your big day – Royston Blythe 112/113 Women’s Fashion: A stylish spring 128 The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton 130/135 Social Scene 150 Golf Tip 152 Prestigious accolade for Sue LeBeau & South Staffs Golf Club 156/157 I-Pace explodes all EV myths at Lancaster Jaguar Wolverhampton 158 Instant Wow – The Mercedes-AMG A35 160 Answers to crosswords and puzzles 161 Index to advertisers 04

24 58-59 64 70-71 74-75 wolverhampton west magazine

Congratulations to: Winners of the Grand Theatre competition to see The Girl On The Train Emma Corr, Perton Louise Worton, Claregate Winners of the meal for 2 at The Oakley Arms Lois Ling, Hilton Lyn Macey, Codsall

100-101 84-85 130-135

90-91 Wolverhampton West Magazine Lytham Rd, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY Tel: 01902 744217 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Wolverhampton West 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. Wolverhampton West 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 Wolverhampton West Magazine Ltd.

*Total distribution 25,000 copies across 2 months

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156-157 Advertising enquiries Gisella Wiley, Sales Director (sales@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk) Editorial/Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On information Geoff Hall, Editor (info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk) Magazine Design Studio 28 Design & Print (studio@s28.co.uk) 05

From the EDITOR

Spring is head and shoulders above summer and I’ll tell you why. It’s all about promise and anticipation. Days grow longer, temperatures rise. And then the magic happens: seeds germinate, leaves sprout. Fish spawn, migrating birds return north, grown men start wearing shorts and then someone thinks about starting a lawnmower. You’ll no doubt by now have already heard the unmistakeable thrum of a neighbour’s Black & Decker hacking through a winter’s worth of moss and weeds.

Putting together each and every edition of WW is nothing if not enlightening. In just a few short weeks I’ve found out when Easter is this year (why is it never where we left it last year?), discovered a newly launched lottery that you actually stand a decent chance of winning - South Staffs local community lottery, which supports good causes and charities; learned when to dead-head Daffodils and apply fertiliser, found out about a new nursery opening its doors in Wolverhampton and hit upon the perfect solution for what to buy mum this year: anything unique from our advertisers is better than High Street uniformity, I say. Apply this idea to your home and you’ll love our many ideas for spring redecorating, home interiors and gift shopping at Stourbridge Galleries. Read all about the best in extensions, resin driveways, outdoor lighting and getting your garden into shape – I’m not gonna beat around the bush: apparently topiary is big right now. Though if you’re thinking of picking up the pruning shears yourself, may the forest be with you. Sticking with the tried and tested however is getting on to the choice subject of nearing nuptials. I’m sure everyone has someone’s “big day” scribbled on their 2019 calendar. And if you’re attending you might as well go in style, whether you’re the bride or not: Willows Dental will transform your teeth to help allay your nerves when viewing Facebook photos; award-winning 06

The Dressing Rooms will help you find your dress; celebrity hairdressers Royston Blythe will take care of your hair; Image Travel will get you there with bags of time to spare in a style that is beyond compare. In fact this time we have more wedding features than you can shake a bridal bouquet at: photography/disco? We got it. As well as all the usual Health, Beauty and Fashion you’ve come to know and love: everything from a facelift – surgical or non surgical for him and her – to Deborah Mitchell’s Heaven launching into Harvey Nichols in Birmingham’s Mailbox, then on to what to wear this season from Aristocats and how to keep fit, with Chris Jewkes Fitness, South Staffs council and Wolverhampton Tennis and Squash Club. In community news there’s also a lot to learn about charitable work from Paycare, Rotary Club and Wolves Former Players’ Association. Then we have this year’s Young Citizens awards and European Youth Olympics bronze medallist, Gabriel Adams. And what’s more there’s still room for a trio of tantalising competitions from Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton Racecourse and West Midlands Safari Park and a restaurant review at The Oakley Arms to sink your teeth into. In addition, we spotlight Wolverhampton Skip Hire and Sandford Carpets, both celebrating 30 years in business. And, although we lack lots of Social Scene (post-

Christmas party blues must have struck the city; I promise our June edition won’t disappoint however) we still can boast an ample serving of motoring and golf, both of which I’m partial too - especially when the sun shines, as it has been lately. Fans of South Staffs Golf Club will enjoy reading about club stalwart Sue LeBeau’s recent accolade as well. Now I’ll admit that at 164 pages this edition is no lightweight but at least it’s a gentle, light-hearted read. So, take a breather, unplug from the unbearable Brexit-based tension in the mainstream media and settle down to a study in local living. Unlike in our political parties you won’t find any in-fighting here, save for the odd squabble over whose turn it is to make a cup of tea and why that weekend’s football results somehow has something to do with it (Wolves always trump the Baggies these days so I’m the biggest loser!) No, there are absolutely no identity crises here because we know what we’re about – a local, quality magazine which brings communities and businesses together. And if you have any local charity events/social events/stories you’d like to share with our readers please email us on: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk See you in June...

Geoff

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The local

property market by Nick Berriman

Some say that attitudes to Brexit are fuelled by nostalgia and with that in mind and with some help from the elder generation I plan to indulge in some nostalgia in respect of the property market. My father started work as an articled pupil in the early 50’s with an old established local firm. I have talked to him about what estate agency was like in those days. One of his first jobs was to catch the bus to Tettenhall on Monday mornings to collect rents from blocks of rented houses in Nursery Walk and Limes Road. In that time most of them were not in good condition whereas now they have been improved and are in demand. The sale process began with a valuation which was not free and would be charged for whether or not they were instructed. There was no problem with negotiating the commission rate as the recognised West Midlands scale fee was 2% and this was respected by everyone. Fee cutting was still a thing of the future! In addition to commission there was a charge for a sale board and if any furniture or carpets and curtains were included they were charged for at 5%! It was a much more comfortable existence than now but it was still competitive. When sale particulars were being prepared the partner would dictate the details to an articled pupil who would write in longhand in a little 12

book. Measurements were taken using a tape measure. Floor plans and photographs were still to come except in auction particulars. Back at the office the partner would dictate from the notes taken to a shorthand secretary who would then type on a manual typewriter onto a Gestetner skin which would be used to prepare copies. A Gestetneg machine was a fiendish copier which put ink everywhere but where it should have been.

sale brochures were created but the general quality then went down. Now presentation is very good. In the days before photographs were used nobody would have envisioned shots being taken from a remote-controlled drone! Father’s firm started using a professional photographer who carried a leafy branch so he could hold it in front of the camera and frame the picture! The Property Misdescription Act had not been invented!

The main method of marketing was by newspaper advertising and there were different days in the Express and Star for normal sales and auctions. Prices were not given in the ads on the basis that people would ring up to find the price and that meant there was contact. Car sales were similar but it was soon found the people liked to see the price first and both house and car sales soon started showing prices. Vendors phone numbers were given in ads so people interested could phone direct to make viewing appointments. Those were days of trust!

Online agencies have appeared. Funny coloured bricks are the largest (and incidentally they do charge but it is a fixed non-refundable up-front fee and is not called commission) and I have read that they are yet to make a profit. The second largest was emoov who are reported to have gone into liquidation. An interesting idea but I don’t think it is about to change the world.

Auction sales were an important part of the market in those days. When putting a property on the market the first decision was whether it should be sold by private treaty or auction. This depended on whether or not it was expected to create demand. It did not depend on price so it could have been a small cottage or a large estate. If competition was expected an auction was the best way to get the best price. My father’s old firm had monthly auctions and there were many remarkable sales. This was on a stable and reliable market when people were willing to buy at auction and then sell their current house in the next months’ auction.

I try to give a monthly market report. National surveys report a quiet and difficult situation but quite remarkably the West Midlands is shown as being one of the liveliest regions where the market is still healthy. We have found January to be much like the average month in both sales and rentals. We do not seem to be affected by Brexit but all bets are off until we know what Brexit will be. The market has survived many problems in the past and I suspect there may be a bit of a blip but that all will be well in the end. (The definition of an optimist is an estate agent!).

The most important change has been the internet enabling information to be transmitted so widely and quickly. It also means that when looking at a property we can find out details of sales of similar properties. In years gone by valuation depended on the knowledge and experience of the valuer. Today detailed information is available. In the 1920’s some beautifully produced wolverhampton west magazine

Henry Fowler Drive, TeTTenHall, wolverHampTon Possibly the finest house in an exclusive and sought after Tettenhall development with extensive and versatile accommodation which is appointed to the highest of standards. Reception hall, guest cloakroom, lounge, dining room, family room, living kitchen and laundry to the ground floor. The first floor has a sitting area, principal suite with balcony, dressing area and bathroom en-suite, 2nd and 3rd bedrooms with a shared en-suite and on the second floor there is a 4th bedroom with an en-suite, a 5th bedroom and a house bathroom. There is a triple garage with a large loft room above, driveway for several vehicles and a landscaped, low maintenance rear garden. (EPC: B).

oFFerS aroUnD ÂŁ845,950 viewinG: Please contact the Tettenhall Office.

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

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advertisement feature

Benefits of paying into your employer’s auto-

enrolment pension scheme

for people nearing

retirement

I often get asked the question by clients approaching retirement “is it beneficial for me to pay into a pension at my age?” and they then go on to tell me that they have opted out of their employers pension scheme and are paying the money they would have paid into a cash ISA instead. 14

The answer to their question is a definite yes because for every £10 that you invest, HMRC will give you tax relief and from April your employer will also have to give you £6.

•

Minimum contributions that must be paid which is 5% employee and 3% employer

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Basic rate tax rates apply (for higher rate tax payers the returns are greater)

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Contributions are made for 3 years

For the purposes of this exercise I will ignore any investment returns and assume the following:

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No investment returns as money is invested in cash fund

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At retirement basic rate tax applies

Let me explain why it is financial suicide to not join your employer’s scheme.

Annual Salary of £24,000 for last 3 years before retirement

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To simplify this, someone earning £2,000 per month would make a gross contribution of £100 which after tax gives a net cost to you of £80. In addition to this your employer must contribute £60 per month so for a net outlay of £80, you end up with a total monthly contribution of £160.

In addition to the figures shown, for higher rate tax payers, the uplift is considerably better and if your employer is one of the many who make the pension payments through a salary exchange scheme, then again your final fund will be far greater.

If we then multiply this by 36 (3 years’ contributions) you would have a pension fund of £5,760 that has actually cost you £2,880.

Midland Independent Financial Services is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

At retirement you then decide to withdraw the full amount so the following would apply: •

25% of your fund is treated as tax free cash = £1,440

•

The balance of £4,320 is classed as income so tax is payable at 20% = £864 leaving you with £3,456 which means that, when you add this amount back in, your tax free cash ultimately would end up as £4,896

I have yet to come across a risk free investment that in the space of 3 years can turn £2,880 into £4,896 so joining the pension scheme, I hope you agree, is a ‘no brainer’. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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

John Webb

John Webb is a Chartered Financial Planner and a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society, the highest accolade designated by that organisation. The Personal Finance Society is the professional body for the Financial Advisory Profession in the United Kingdom, promoting the highest standards of technical knowledge, client service and ethical practice.

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

www.midlandifa.co.uk Throughout the year Midland Independent hold investment seminars with industry experts. If you would like to attend please email: info@midlandifa.co.uk 15

CarverS Wolverhampton

Half Marathon Events

The organisers of the Carvers Wolverhampton Half Marathon Events are already busy planning for SUNDAY 1st SEPTEMBER when they hope thousands will again take to the streets around Wolverhampton, running and cycling, then finishing in West Park. This year sees the inclusion of the Half Marathon Relay. This is open to companies or clubs who can enter a team of four people to run the half marathon distance as a relay. It is hoped this will encourage some healthy competition. Sponsored by Marston’s Brewery the Banks’s 10K has become very popular; it starts and finishes on the doorstep of the Brewery and carries the Banks’s brand name.

take more exercise and improve their fitness. They are also helping with the promotion of the events. As Mary says “Our events offer something for everyone to take part in”. Furthermore, the Marathon Events raise thousands of pounds each year for local charities and the official launch on February 4th saw three new charities announced. Bilston East District Scouts, Wulfrun Hospital Radio and PDSA joined Charity Partner Compton Care for a share of the proceeds from the 2019 Events. As always, The Mayoral Charity Fund receives a portion, the identity of those charities will be announced when the new Mayor takes office. To anyone new to running and thinking of entering any of the races, training advice can be found on the website.

The events have become a firm fixture in the Wolverhampton calendar and attract competitors from all around the country as well as local people. Paycare in Wolverhampton have now joined the group of sponsors and has chosen to sponsor the Half Marathon Relay. The Grand Theatre has joined the event again and as well as giving pantomime tickets for families they have chosen to sponsor The Grand Theatre Children’s Mini Marathon. Race Director Mary Harding has been forging links with The City of Wolverhampton Council, WV Active, and Public Health who are challenging people to

Emily Glew and Katie Felton from Paycare, Amie Cater from Marston’s, Henry Carver, Hugh Porter, Mayor of Wolverhampton, Cllr Phil Page, Anita Porter & Dicky Dodd.

Online entries are now open and to enter any of the events visit the website: www.carverwolverhamptonhalfmarathonevents.co.uk 16

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Spectacular Staircases at

Lyndale Stairs Ltd

Burntwood-based stair specialists, Lyndale Stairs Ltd is ready and waiting to transform your staircase in to a stylish design feature.

the choices of modern designs that are available now offer the beauty of natural wood in stylish and contemporary design.” If you’re keen to increase the storage space in your home you’ll be pleased to read that Lyndale also offer a loft ladder and boarding service too.

Whether it’s a brand-new design or an extensive refurbishment, the Lyndale team create designs that complement any home interior style. As Neill Parker, Managing Director explains: “We use our vast selection of materials, fully skilled design team and our professional joiners and installers to achieve the perfect look for every customer.” In fact, when it comes to materials, Lyndale’s choice of glass and wood designs suit all tastes and styles. “We offer many types of glass products that will bring a contemporary look to any home. All our glass is toughened and

compliant with British Standards as a minimum. We can install this type of product onto a new staircase or to your existing staircase using various methods and designs that all look spectacular.” Wood is always a favourite with those looking for traditional style but it can also have a modern twist too. “Although wooden balustrades provide a more traditional look,

“We can install loft ladders in all types of property; we have many different ladders available and we also offer customers the option to have insulation and boarding installed too which gives a complete finish for the roof space,” adds Neill. And what’s more, because the company offer superior service and quality products each and every job they undertake runs seamlessly. To find out more visit: www.lyndalestairs.co.uk or call into the showroom today.

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A new hue

For your home

It’s so easy to become bored with your home interior style, especially if you haven’t updated it in a while. So, if you’re looking for an excuse to call in the decorators, then you’ve probably just found it. Thanks to Spring 2019’s gorgeous new colour palette, there are so many beautiful shades that are ready and waiting to adorn your walls. Here are the most on-trend hues for your home:

Gorgeous greens Green, in all its variations, is a massive interior trend at the moment and, it’s the perfect choice for any living space. A serene green shade can create just the right calming mood in your bedroom, whilst a splash of a hunter green hue adds depth and sets a sophisticated tone in your living room.

Beautiful blues Shades of blue are so versatile that they can be the perfect choice for any room in your home. Misty blues, moody blues, icy blues? Whatever takes your fancy, you just can’t go wrong when it comes to blue. And, a blue hue is also a great choice for your kitchen island and cabinets.

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Terrific terracotta Want to warm things up a bit? Then an earthy terracotta shade is the right hue for the job. A rich, warm shade of terracotta offers a nature-inspired look and adds a contemporary twist in any home.

It’s a vibrant choice and it’s sure to brightenup even the gloomiest space. Whatever colour you choose you can rest assured that your home will look amazing this year. Check out our advertisers and see what they have to offer.

Beautiful blush Muted blush shades and rosy neutrals offer a glamorous look and are the perfect alternative to the cooler neutral tones we’ve been used to seeing. Blush pink hues are a particularly beautiful choice for a bedroom, especially when combined with luxurious furnishings and accessories.

Vibrant coral ‘Living Coral’ was Pantone’s 2019 colour of the year, so it’s not surprising that coral is making an appearance when it comes to home interior trends.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Wolverhampton’s handmade reclaimed

furniture workshop

As industrial and rustic styles continue to be a popular interior design choice for 2019, a furniture workshop with a difference can keep your decor on trend whilst being kind to the environment.

Wood Saints specialises in handmade furniture and garden products using reclaimed timber collected from local businesses and construction projects. Unwanted wood that would otherwise go to landfill is upcycled into dining tables, bookcases, coffee tables, storage boxes, benches, patio furniture, bird boxes, quirky homeware and unique wall art.

A popular bespoke design service is also available with recent orders including made to measure shoe racks, bookcases, tables and alcove storage. Mick Moreton, Manager at Wood Saints says: “We’re all about creating beautiful, authentic and built to last pieces, working with customers to bring their ideas to life. You just can’t beat the look, feel and smell of real wood.” Mick’s team is based at The Wood Depot on Dixon Street, where you can visit the showroom shop, buy timber for DIY projects and see the workshop and recycling operation in action. Anyone with an interest in working with wood can join the team of volunteers or sign-up for a 10-week basic wood-working course.

A Welsh dresser made to order by staff member Gordon, who first joined Wood Saints as a volunteer to support his recovery after ill health.

Wood Saints is a community enterprise run by All Saints Action Network, a local charity working to make life better for people who live and work in the All Saints area of Wolverhampton.

Reclaimed timber furniture Handmade to order Rustic & industrial chic Dining tables • Coﬀee tables Bookcases • Sideboards Benches & more VISIT OUR SHOWROOM | Open Monday - Saturday The Wood Depot, Dixon Street, Wolverhampton WV2 2BX 01902 556683 www.woodsaints.com We’re on Facebook 22

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Kitchens with style – modern – contemporary – traditional Our Extensive range of kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms will enable us to create the room of your dreams. Our Computer Aided Designs will give you the opportunity to experience your new room prior to installation.

For a free no obligation quote please call in at: 20 Finchfield Rd West, Finchfield, WV3 8AZ Telephone: 01902 761600

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Established over 20 years w w w. e a t o n k i t c h e n d e s i g n s . c o . u k 23

Former Wolves stars support local charities “We are continuing to grow as an organisation both to ensure that the club’s former players are able to meet up and socialise but also that we can make a positive difference in the local community.” As well as those charities mentioned, a donation was made last year to the Birch Thompson Memorial Fund, which provides thousands of youngsters with the chance to enjoy outdoor experiences through its Gelliwig centre in Porthmadog. Representatives of the four charities with members of Wolves Former Players’ Association

Wolves Former Players’ Association have officially handed over donations of £2,000 apiece to their chosen charities from last year’s Golf Day.

“We were delighted to welcome the charity representatives to officially receive the donations, which will have a really positive impact on their work.

The event, organised by former midfielder Steve Daley and wife Lyn along with help from the WFPA committee, saw 25 teams take to the Oxley Park course followed by evening entertainment hosted by Daley and former Wolves team-mate Steve Kindon.

“It is always good for the former players to get together and chat about old times, and we are all committed to helping out in the local community as much as we can.”

A total of £8,000 was raised to be shared between Smile for Joel, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Clic Sargent and the Maureen Parkes Breast Care fund.

Richard Green, Administrator with the Wolves FPA, added: “So many of the former players from that era have stayed in the local area, and it is to their immense credit that they are willing to give up their time to help raise money for charities.

Former players are also making regular visits to the Molineux Memories group, run by Wolverhampton Wanderers Foundation in partnership with the Black Country NHS team from Blakenhall Resource Centre for individuals with dementia. And Karl Henry and Kevin Foley both visited the Good Shepherd Centre prior to Christmas to meet staff and service users and hand over donations of food and other items both from themselves and the FPA. The next event for the FPA is the Annual Dinner, taking place at Molineux on April 10th.

The cheques were handed over at a gathering at the Fox Inn at Shipley on Tuesday 12th February 2019, with thanks to landlord Neil Taylor, who was representing Birmingham Children’s Hospital for whom he has carried out his own array of fundraising challenges. “The golf day was a fantastic event where former players and Wolves supporters were able to get together whilst also raising money for some very important and deserving causes,” says Wolves FPA Vice-Chairman John Richards, who scored 194 goals for the club during 14 years at Molineux. 24

Richard Green, Neil Taylor (Birmingham Children’s Hospital) and Steve Daley

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As seen on...

DIY SOS

Exhibite d at Grand Designs Live Show

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Three Pines are delighted to announce that this project at Bishop Percyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House was entered into the Shropshire Design and Conservation Awards and has been awarded a commendation for the category Restoration and Repair of a Listed Building.

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Three Pines Building Co. Limited, Cullwick Court, Cullwick Street, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV1 2UR

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Invigorate your interior this season with Leekes or as courageous as you wish with this look - opt for a neutral furniture with feature walls or an on-trend look that can be easily updated with the seasons, or take the plunge with dark walls and furniture for a relaxing yet luxurious look. For a real style statement this year opt for neutral wallpaper. Perfect for adding patterns and detailing, wallpaper is the ideal way to add the wow factor to any room. With a huge range of bold and beautiful designs on the market, gone are the days of fearing clashes, be prepared for the new season with botanical prints, light reflecting metals and rich textures.

With 2019 in full swing there has never been a better time to experiment with colours and prints to bring your home to life. 2019 is proving to be another year of the bright and bold, whether you are opting for rich and vibrant or warm and inviting, create a home full of colour and personality this year at Leekes.

perfect blend of contemporary colouring and familiarity designed to create a cosy retreat. This versatile hue can be used in any home from reinventing a modern farm house to updating a chic apartment. If you long for a sultry and sophisticated look, there has never been a better time to take the plunge. Deep shades of navy and grey are proving to be as popular as ever this year. Be as cautious

Once you have chosen your new base, it is time to accessorise. Help to create your desired look with finishing touches, whether you opt for sleek and sophisticated with feature flooring, industrial ambiance with raw wood and mixed metals or a luxurious look with plush cushions and scented candles, 2019 is the year of detailing so ensure your home doesn’t fall flat by adding all of the finishing touches. For more information or to locate your nearest Leekes store call 0333 222 4120 or visit leekes.co.uk.

At Leekes you’ll find a fantastic range of collections to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to invigorating your interior this season. Providing everything you need, from the latest decorating trends to furniture and fabrics in a combination of colours, prints, textures and finishes to bring a breath of fresh air to your home. Instantly update the look and feel of your interior with this year’s Dulux Colour of the Year - Spiced Honey. Spiced Honey is the 28

wolverhampton west magazine

FURNITURE

from Leekes

At Leekes weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve a fantastic range of sofa collections to choose from and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to invigorating your interior. Providing a combination of colours, prints, textures and finishes our sofas will bring a breath of fresh air to your home this season.

FOR OVER

120 YEARS EST. 1897

Leekes Bilston, Great Bridge Road, W. Mids. WV14 8LB Tel: 0333 222 4120 | Online: leekes.co.uk

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Bigger than you think Looks can be deceiving, and if you have never set foot inside Sandford Carpets before you’d be forgiven for thinking that the Trysull Road-based business is merely a small shop. Take a look inside though, and you’ll find a vast showroom that’s complete with a huge selection of roll stock carpets, curtains, flooring, rugs and soft furnishings. As manager Kim explains: “We’ve got a huge range of carpets and flooring at our showroom that suit all requirements and budgets. Customers are amazed when they see our enormous warehouse - that’s stocked with 90 rolls of carpet – and always comment on our low prices.” In fact, the company has reached an impressive milestone this year and, to celebrate the showroom has been treated to a brand-new look. “We’re celebrating 30 years in business this year, which is a massive achievement, and, to mark the anniversary we have completely refurbished our showroom.” There are carpets from the all of the top brands at Sandford, like Brintons, Ulster and Westex, as well as a choice of wooden, vinyl, engineered and Karndean flooring.

Kim and Gary

As an independent business, it’s hard to believe that the company can be so competitive when it comes to pricing, but Kim and her husband Gary have proved time and time again that they’re more than able to beat the competition. “We work really hard to ensure our customers get the best products and service at the best price. Gary provides the quotes and our specialist team of fitters handle the installations.” The showroom is also well-stocked with beautiful fabrics, soft furnishings, artwork and gifts. “We have fabrics from well-known companies, Villa Nova, Clarke and Clarke, PT, Voyage, Crowson, Linwood plus many more, our seamstress makes fabulous curtains and coverings for clients.” Customers will also find a good range of wadding, bump, interlining, fusible, blackout lining, cotton sateen lining, tie backs, curtain poles, upholstery fabrics and pattern books. A range of blinds are supplied and expertly fitted by the company too. “Our clocks, pictures and accessories are perfect for completing any room and our unique personalised gifts make the ideal present.” “We’re stockists of Kadai Firebowls, which are becoming a really popular alternative to the traditional barbecue,” adds Kim. So, whether you’re looking for carpets and flooring, fabulous fabrics or even just a special gift, pay a visit to Sandford Carpets today.

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You will find us at:

128 Trysull Road, Bradmore, Wolverhampton WV3 7JF Tel: 01902 335599 www.sandfordcarpetsandcurtains.co.uk Open: Tuesday to Saturday 9am until 5pm

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Crossword Across 1 Judged the value of (8) 6 Exclusive, only (4) 8 Possible danger (6) 9 Clarify, explain (6) 10 Shock ________, car part (8) 13 Delight, joy (4) 14 Paddle-wheel driven river vessel (9) 17 100th of a Euro (4) 18 Awful, terrible (8) 19 Recreational gambling (6) 21 Deep purple-blue (6) 23 Dowels, pins (4) 24 Hotchpotch (8)

Puzzle answers on

160

Down 2 Threadbare (6) 3 Period of time (3) 4 Decorative cupboard or bureau (9) 5 Faulty (3) 6 Protect, shelter (9) 7 Joined, connected (6) 11 Surpasses, exceeds (9) 12 Burglaries (9) 15 Anaesthetise (6) 16 Yeast, mushroom, mildew (6) 20 Sticky substance, rosin (3) 22 Dike, barrier (3)

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

Word Search Can you find 27 Commonwealth countries hidden in the grid? Bonus points if you can name the other 19. Australia Barbados Botswana Cameroon Canada Dominica Fiji Ghana India Jamaica Kenya Malaysia Malta Mauritius 32

Mozambique New Zealand Nigeria Pakistan Rwanda Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore South Africa Sri Lanka Tonga Uganda Zambia wolverhampton west magazine

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Friends of Bantock House Museum and Park

11am – 2pm Held in Bantock courtyard outbuilding ....................................

A charge of £1 per item Proceeds to The Friends - free to members. There will be the opportunity to become members on the day. Annual membership is £10 individual, £15 per household.

Have you taken part in the latest craze to de-clutter? Found something you think may be valuable? If it’s an item you don’t need or want, do get it valued before discarding it.

It’s all about living

Come and visit our showroom

Take advantage of our next Valuation Day in conjunction with Fieldings Auctioneers. Thursday 23rd May

Money raised at this event and others where we have a presence enables us to fund projects within the park and the house. To join and support the work we do, please: Email: bantockfriends@ virginmedia.com Or Tel: FoB Secretary 01902 331272.

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

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Call Now 01902 754 129, 07891197369 or 01902 892 682 No.72, School Road, Tettenhall Wood, Wolverhampton, WV6 8ET

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Specialists in the design and complete installation of fitted kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms and office/study furniture

For further details please call 01902 714557 or email kitbedtech1@gmail.com

80 Chapel Ash, Wolverhampton, WV3 0TT www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk www.kitchenandbedroomtechnique.co.uk

Open: Monday to Friday 9.30am until 5pm Saturday 10am until 4pm 35

Garden

Spring has officially sprung.

It’s the time of year that people start to chill out in the garden, have barbecues and sit out all night in the warm evening. Does this sound like you? It’s living the dream. We like to sit out all night with a glass of wine and talk the night away, have a laugh with friends and have fun. This is the definition of a great night. With that in mind, you need the perfect way to see once the night whiles away and darkness starts to fall upon you. No doubt, you’ll also want some comfortable furniture to sit on too. We’ve got all that and parasols. We can supply you with all the furnishings and comforts for a lovely garden evening or party with pals. Who wouldn’t want that? We know that if you purchase your garden

lights and furniture from us that you and your friends will be pleased. With lights that look traditional and industrial, to sleek and modern examples to put on the side of your house you’ll be sure to impress. We have outdoor and garden lighting from big brands such as Dar, Astro, Searchlight, Saxby and Firstlight. You can also find some beautiful Pacific Lifestyle furniture sets from 3-8 pieces, with chairs, sofas and tables that wouldn’t look out of place outside an expensive bar or restaurant. Modern, beautiful rattan with comfy cushion seating

that can be left out at all times of year and still look great. Love them and your friends will too. You can even buy a huge day bed for outside, so you can sleep outside in spring and summer during day and night if you wish.

www.lightingrus.co.uk sales@lightingrus.oc.uk 01902 757825

Unit 1a, Walton Works Industrial Estate, Macrome Rd, Aldersley, Wolverhampton, WV6 9HD

Enjoy your spring evening with us!

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KARNDEAN AND CARPET SHOWROOM MON - FRI 8.00am - 5:00pm SAT 10:00am - 3:00pm

For a free no obligation site survey and measuring service call 01902 745491 Unit 9 Walton Works industrial Estate, Macrome Road, Claregate, Wolverhampton, WV6 9HD

Shop online @ www.premierflooringltd.com

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RE C I PE Hoisin Glazed Belly pork

Preparation time: 45 minutes Cooking time: 4 Hrs Serves: 4 as a starter Ingredients • 800g belly pork rind on, whole • Half a small onion, sliced • 200ml good quality hoisin sauce • Honey • Sea salt Vegetables for the slaw • Carrot, asparagus, red pepper, spring onion, red cabbage, fresh ginger and coriander leaves Method 1. Firstly to slow braise the belly pork. Place in oven proof dish 38

add onion cover with water and a few spices if desired (for example star anise and fennel seeds), tightly cover with foil. Place into oven at 130c for 4 hours, check if done by pushing a table knife through the rind in to the meat. Drain the liquid off and cover with cling film and set until firm in the fridge (ideality overnight). 2. Peel the rind off and save for another dish or if desired place in the oven until crisp and use with the dish.

5. For the vegetable slaw, finely slice the vegetables into strips, chop ginger finely, add coriander leaves, season and just before serving dress with a little olive oil. Drizzle a little of the hoisin sauce from the tray on the plates for presentation and serve your glazed pork for a starter or double up for a main course. Recipe by

3. Mix hoisin sauce with a good dash of honey add a pinch of salt to balance. 4. Slice the belly pork in to 4 good size pieces cover in hoisin and honey mixture. Place in a hot oven until nicely glazed, baste with the sauce a few times for the best finish then allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

07446 403111 mark@mark-hadfield.co.uk

www.mark-hadfield.co.uk markhadfieldprivatechef markhadfieldchef

wolverhampton west magazine

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Give Your HOME Instant Kerb Appeal

Are you looking to transform the front of your house? If so, a resin drive is wellworth considering. Having long been associated with commercial spaces such as hotels, company headquarters and Premiership football grounds, they’ve also found their place in the domestic sector with homeowners now recognising the value and ‘wow factor’ that comes with a resin driveway. Resin bound surfacing is a porous paving material made from aggregate stones and resin. It combines the best attributes of other surfaces – the appearance of loose gravel, the strength of concrete and the flexibility of tarmac – whilst being more attractive and practical than all three.

Sarah Beeny’s Driveway Advice Sarah Beeny, Channel 4 presenter and property developer, is a big fan of Resin Drives. “Resin is definitely the perfect drive finish,” she says. “It’s so practical – being totally porous it drains brilliantly and doesn’t create puddles. It’s 40

lovely to walk on, has a long-lasting durable finish and is available in an amazing range of colours.” “It’s a bit like a little black dress. You can dress it up glitzy glam if you want a real Hollywood look, or it can blend perfectly in a rural setting.” She recommends Resindrives. co.uk for their professional service and high-quality work on her driveway: “They arrived when they said they would, gave us a clear time schedule for the work and were finished early,” she says. “All the fitters were polite and charming and properly cleaned up after themselves. They did a beautiful job and were complete perfectionists.”

types of properties and projects including; driveways, patios, paths and terraces - making it the ideal surface for driving on or as an outdoor living space, such as a patio, to enjoy with the family or entertain guests.

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Make It Unique Resin bound surfacing comes in a choice of over 40 unique colours and is suitable for all

Resin Drive’s surfaces can also be applied for landscaped pathways and stunning, unique patio areas. Resindrives.co.uk has over 10 years’ experience and has installed over 20,000 drives. To find out more or get a free quote, call 0800 007 5733 or visit www.resindrives.co.uk. wolverhampton west magazine

Revive your drive with Resin Drives Combine extra parking space with stunning kerb appeal.

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*Resindrives.co.uk is a trading name of resindrives.co.uk ltd. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN743675) We are a credit broker and not a lender, we offer credit facilities from a panel of lenders. Finance subject to status. Terms and conditions apply.

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Local Lottery

Supports Good Causes and Charities The South Staffordshire Community Lottery has been set up by South Staffordshire Council to strengthen and empower local good causes and charities. It provides an opportunity for community groups and charities to raise additional funds to support the fantastic work they do. From every £1 lottery ticket you buy, you will be giving 60p to charities and good causes in South Staffordshire. As well as giving a little back, you will also enter a weekly draw (every Saturday, 8pm)

that could see you winning cash prizes ranging from £25, £250, £2,000 or the jackpot of £25,000.

week. Start giving today at www.southstaffslottery.co.uk or telephone 01902 213 777.

Communities shine because of the valuable work being done by good causes and charities. They are often the lifeblood of our communities - bringing happiness, health and wellbeing to so many people’s lives. In most cases they are run and managed by volunteers who give up their free time. Funding is often a challenge, so your support can really make a big difference.

Thank you - Together we win!

Please help spread a little sparkle within your community by supporting the lottery today from as little as £1 a

Are you a good cause or charity in South Staffordshire? Why not start benefiting from the Community Lottery? It is free and easy to join. Includes a starter pack and continued support. The more tickets you sell the more funds you raise for your good cause. Register today at www.southstaffslottery.co.uk Players must be aged 16 years or over and live in the UK. Registration No 00-048-100R-326-374-002. Terms and Conditions apply. Always play responsibly. begambleaware. org. Helpline 0808 8020 133.

wolverhampton west magazine

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Grand Theatre COMPETITION We have a pair of tickets* to give away to the opening night of Club Tropicana The Musical on Monday 29 April! Join Joe McElderry (X Factor winner), Neil McDermott (EastEnders), Kate Robbins (Spitting Image, ITVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s The Imitation Game, Dinnerladies), Emily Tierney (Wicked, The Wizard of Oz); and former Sugababe star Amelle Berrabah at the Club Tropicana Hotel, where the drinks are free and the whole family is invited to join the ultimate holiday musical, celebrating all that we love about the 80s. Featuring chart-topping hits from ABC, Cyndi Lauper, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, a-ha, Culture Club, Bucks Fizz, Depeche Mode and many more! Will our young lovers decide to go through with the wedding? Will the hotel inspectors (finally) get their way and close the resort, or will the staff save the day? This is the feel-good musical of the year at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from Mon 29 April â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sat 4 May.

For tickets and more information call 01902 42 92 12 or visit grandtheatre.co.uk

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and send on a postcard with your name, address and telephone number to Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton WV6 7YY. Alternatively email your answer to info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk and include your details by Friday 12th April 2019.

Which TV Talent show did Joe McElderry win in 2009? A. Pop Idol B. The Voice C. Strictly Come Dancing D. X Factor 44

Competition Terms and Conditions Entries to be received no later than Friday 12th April 2019. Winners to collect tickets from the box office on the evening of the performance. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash or alternative prize nights available. Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity. *Tickets are for the specified performance only and cannot be given for any other performance or production. Tickets have no monetary value.

wolverhampton west magazine

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Salop Street, Wolverhampton WV3 0RX Tel: 01902 429060 Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm The Rotunda, Townsend Place, KingsWinford DY6 9JL Tel: 01384 271812 Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm

The PoTTing Shed

New year, New office Each package is bespoke to cater for our client’s needs, and all gardens, big and small. The process starts with a free consultation and a chat to see what you’d like to achieve within your garden and then we go from there. By choosing The Potting Shed for your garden maintenance you’re guaranteed a reliable, friendly and professional service.

As some of you may have noticed we have moved from our Tettenhall shop location and have now settled into our new office still based in Tettenhall. The decision was made to focus on our ever-growing garden maintenance side of the business in order to offer everyone a much more efficient service.

• Pruning • Planting (including hanging baskets and seasonal displays) • Mulching • Jet wash • General tidy • General advice on what plants would be suitable where

You can follow what we’re up to on social media and this year we have also launched our YouTube channel where we’ll be posting weekly informational videos to share our expertise and perhaps give you some ideas for your own garden. Head to our Facebook page for a link to the channel: facebook.com/thepottingsheduk/ With an ever-growing portfolio of fabulous gardens and satisfied customers the last 3 years have been great and we hope the success can continue.

We’re excited about the upcoming year! Here at The Potting Shed we’ve a real passion for gardening, me and my team take great pride in treating all our client’s gardens as our own. We offer a full maintenance service that includes: • Lawncare • Weeding

L:R: Ben Richards: Assistant Gardener Sarah Turnbull: Founder Adam Foster: Supervisor Vicki Turnbull: Office Administrator Aka Mom!

01902 755502

info@thepotting-shed.co.uk w w w. t h e p o t t i n g - s h e d . c o . u k 46

wolverhampton west magazine

Severn Valley Window & Door

The aluminium experts Bridgnorth-based company, Severn Valley Window & Door are experts in the fabrication of quality aluminium windows and doors and the installation and maintenance of commercial aluminium, UPVC and steel windows and doors. Working from their fully-equipped unit, that’s located off Faraday Drive, Bridgnorth the Severn Valley team deliver outstanding results to clients across central England and Wales. As Kinzie Hawkings, General Manager, explains: “We pride ourselves on providing first-rate customer care and value-for-money for every one of our clients across the public and commercial sectors.” And, that’s why the company are the first choice for many local authorities and have carried out work for schools, care homes, nurseries and hospitals. They are

also frequently tasked with carrying out work for many police forces too. “Every project that we undertake is fully managed by us and we deliver on time, on budget and meet the rigorous demands of ISO9001 quality standards.” Severn Valley is also approved fabricators for Comar Architectural Aluminium Systems and deliver a bespoke service to meet exact requirements for all window and door manufacture, installation and maintenance projects. And, the company has developed its ground floor treatment suites to meet the demands of its clients: “After a number of requests, we have transformed our ground floor treatment suites into purposemade self-standing weather-proof secure units, which offer numerous advantages over traditional timber or metal structures.” Although classed as ‘temporary structures’ under planning

regulations, the units are undoubtedly long-lasting thanks to their high quality construction and, if you move house your secure unit can easily be transported to your new address. Low-maintenance and secure, the units can be used for all manner of purposes: “They can be used for equipment storage, plant room equipment housing, sit-on lawnmower sheds or even a remote office or store.” In fact, whatever your requirements, there’s a design to suit you: “We can produce any size or design of unit, within product limitations, and we have a design team that’s ready and waiting to talk to you about your needs,” adds Kinzie. So, to find out how a unit could be just what you need, contact the team today.

bespoke secure quaLity aLuminium units • any size/design

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We can turn your vision into a reality for almost any use. Please call: 01746 761127 Email: sales@severnvalleywindows.co.uk Units 8-9 off Faraday Drive, Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV15 5BA

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www.severnvalleywindows.co.uk

Prepare FOR

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

the growing season

The weather has been relatively mild so far, but beware of sharp frosts in March and April that will spoil vulnerable plants and soft shoots – have some fleece handy and check the weather forecasts, if we’re likely to get a frost put the fleece over the tops of plants to protect them.

Dead head bulbs particularly daffodils, leaving the green foliage on and top dress with fertiliser, they’ll send the food back to the bulb and you’ll get a better display of flowers next year. Remember to dead head spring flowering bedding plants as well to encourage more

flowers. Snowdrops can be split at this time of year into smaller clumps.

keep on a light sunny windowsill or in a heated greenhouse.

Many of the summer flowering bulbs and tubers can be planted outside as the weather warms up – Lilies and Gladioli. Always plant lily bulbs on their side so that water doesn’t lie in the scales and cause them to rot. Lilies, especially Tree Lilies benefit from being started off in pots and planted outside once growing strongly. They don’t reach their full potential in height for a couple of years but are well worth the wait. Why not try the newer carpet Lilies which as the name suggests are dwarf growing with a spreading habit. Dahlias can be started off in pots inside, then planted out once the danger of frosts has receded. Begonias should be pressed gently into potting compost, curved side down – never completely covered, water and

Remove any old growth from perennials and divide if required. Put in stakes, canes and plant supports before they get too tall and flop over. Slugs and snails love young herbaceous shoots, especially in damp conditions. Use pellets to deter them. With so much damp weather over the last few months there’s going to be plenty of moss in lawns. We have in stock MO Bacter which is a slow release organic fertiliser for lawns. This feeds the lawn over a 12-week period and contains bacteria which are naturally found in the soil and which when added to fertiliser will consume material like thatch and moss, making it unnecessary to rake or scarify after treatment.

OPEN DAILY

Bridgnorth Road, Shipley, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7EZ

Don’t forget

Mothers’ Day Sunday 31st March

Tel 01902 700209 48

Huge range of good quality shrubs, herbaceous, trees, conifers always ready for sale.

We have a stunning range of planted arrangements and pot plants. Full range of plug plants now in stock

www.lealansgardencentre.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine

BRING THE WOW FACTOR TO YOUR GARDEN THIS SUMMER By Andi Way, Garden Designer at Boningale Garden Creations In any garden, it’s the planting scheme that really makes an impact. Different colours and styles translate to impressive visuals, but the amount of choice can be overwhelming - how do you know what will work best for you and your budget? Step One: do your research. Pinterest is a great starting point for ideas. Curate mood boards based off of what does or doesn’t work in your current space. Get a feel for how complex you want your planting scheme to be – how much time can you devote to gardening? You can still achieve that allimportant wow factor even if you aren’t a seasoned gardener; there are plants to suit everyone, and we take this into account during the design process. Step Two: remember that inspiration can strike anywhere – if you see something you like, take a photo! Personally, I enjoy visiting National Trust gardens, as they help me to envision ways of displaying different plants, or creatively incorporating them into garden structures and borders.

Here at Garden Creations, we have a team of plant specialists who can guide you through your plant choices. Our clients are also given the opportunity to have an exclusive tour of the Boningale Nurseries site, which has thousands of plants to choose from. Top Tip: If you’re feeling bold, consider investing in topiary to punctuate different areas of your garden – it will really make your garden stand out.

If you need any further information, or want to seek professional advice from our award-winning garden designers, please visit us at www.boningale-garden-creations.co.uk or call 01902 376500.

garden creations

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inspiration@boningale.co.uk

01902 376500

TO LEARN MORE, VISIT: WWW.BONINGALE-GARDEN-CREATIONS.CO.UK Facebook.com/BoningaleGardenCreations

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

@boningalegarden

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‘One stop shop for all property maintenance’ • Local family company with over 40 years’ experience • Quick response • All property repairs undertaken • Friendly advice • No job too big or too small • Customer service at it’s best!

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City and Guilds Qualified Camrose Gardens, Pendeford, Wolverhampton

wolverhampton west magazine

RC C l e a n i n g

Treat your home to a professional clean Even though we all know that first impressions count many of us overlook the exterior appearance of our property.

how problematic blocked gutters can be and often don’t notice a problem until they’re overflowing.”

Dirty fascias, grimy conservatories and blocked gutters don’t just look unattractive; they also devalue your property. That’s why it’s important to regularly treat your home to a professional clean.

“Well maintained gutters are essential, that’s why it’s so important to have them regularly cleaned out to keep them working effectively. Installing Hedgehog Gutter Guards prevents gutters from blocking.”

Fortunately, the team at RC Cleaning are ready and waiting to transform your home.

Many homeowners have benefited from Richard’s cleaning services since he started the company in 2009.

As owner, Richard Cotterill explains: “We undertake all aspects of exterior cleaning from top to bottom. We clean roofs, fascias, soffits, inside and outside of gutters, window frames and sills, garage doors, porches, conservatories and orangeries.” And the company also install Hedgehog Gutter Guards: “Many homeowners don’t realise just

When gutters become blocked water can get into the brickwork and cause damp problems in your home.

“I’m really passionate about what I do and I take pride in my work. Cleaning is incredibly rewarding and I get real job satisfaction from seeing the transformation once a job is complete.” And the company also offer a professional carpet and upholstery cleaning service too.

“I’ve established a really good customer base over the ten years I’ve been in business and many of my clients have recommended my services to their friends and relatives.”

The business is accredited by Age Concern, which proves to highlight just how trustworthy and reliable Richard is.

It’s no surprise that RC has gone from strength to strength as Richard prides himself on the work he does for his clients.

“Homeowners can rest assured that whatever the job, they’ll receive only the best service when they use RC Cleaning.”

GUTTER GUARDS INSTALLED

House roof cleaning (including moss), gutter cleaning inside and out, full house exterior cleans, pure water window cleaning. For a free no obligation quote call Richard on 01902 822452 or 07792 359262

Visit our Facebook page

RC Cleaning Services

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Bhylls Crescent, Merry Hill, Wolverhampton

Age UK approved trader 53

Industry experts RS Heating Engineering Ltd

When it comes to the repair, maintenance or installation of your home’s heating system, you need to find a company that you can trust to carry out the work.

With an aim to repair the system as quickly and cost effectively as possible, Richard provides a service which ensures the very best result for every homeowner.

Penn-based firm, RS Heating Engineering Ltd are experts in the industry, highly experienced and fully Gas Safe accredited.

In addition, the company specialises in central heating upgrades and maintenance: “Central heating upgrades come in many forms and there are plenty of options, including the installation of an energy efficient boiler, thermostatic radiator valve installation or switching to modern high efficiency radiators.”

As owner and director, Richard Shaw explains: “I’ve been working in the heating industry for more than 20 years now, and since establishing my own company in 2005, I’ve established an excellent customer-base across the Wolverhampton area.” Taking care of central heating boilers, gas cookers and hobs, as well as gas fire installation and maintenance, RS Heating Engineering Ltd can be called upon to undertake any project of any size. “We offer a range of services including landlord certification, boiler & fire servicing and we attend heating and hot water breakdown.”

HEATING YOUR HOME CENTRAL HEATING UpGRAdE SpECIALIST

“We take the time to explain to our customers the reason for the failure and what preventative measures they can take in the future to improve reliability.”

There are plenty of benefits which come too from upgrading to designer vertical radiators and towel radiators, as well as the installation of smart controllers - like Hive, Nest or Salus – which can be controlled via your phone. “Power flushing a central heating system works by removing debris from within the system and following the clean you’ll find increased energy efficiency and a quieter boiler.” Of course, there’s always the option to install magnetic heating filters in your boiler as well as opting for under floor heating or choosing an unvented hot water system. And, as Baxi approved installers, the company is able to provide their clients with a 7-year parts and labour warranty on all new Baxi boiler installations – customers are also a priority in the event of a breakdown. Worcester CDI boilers come complete with a 5-year parts and labour guarantee and, as part of a spring promotion, RS are offering a Baxi 630 Combination Boiler from £1495.00 supply and fitted. “This is based on combi for combi swap with minimum pipework changes and basic controller,” adds Richard. Of course, customers can choose to upgrade to a smart controller for an additional cost.

• Competitive Gas Boiler quotes • Boiler Break Downs & Service • System Power Flushing • Local Gas Safe Registered Engineer

Whatever your requirements, you can trust the RS Heating team to deliver an excellent service. So, why not make your home more energy efficient today? Contact Richard on 07305 091432.

• Radiator Replacement / Upgrades

RS HEATING Engineering Ltd Call or Text Richard: 07305 091432 Email: rsheatingengineering@outlook.com Website: www.rsheatingengineering.co.uk

wolverhampton west magazine

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of all domestic appliances Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers, Dishwashers, Cookers and much more! Sadly Goulds TV have now closed down. Washer Wise have loyally supported them for the past 20 years with all their domestic appliance repairs and will continue to provide the same level of service to customers both old and new.

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A member of the Guild of Q Butchers Quite simply, this means that Allan Bennett is one of the best butchers in Britain. Quality is our number one priority, and we are committed to preserving the skills passed down through generations of traditional craftsmen. At Allan Bennett’s we produce all our products using the best English meat, which is bought from Bridgnorth market every Tuesday. This means that all of our meat has full traceability, and guarantees you top quality meat from local farmers. In short, you can’t buy better!

Perfect pastry aids top triumph Allan Bennett beat more than 200 competitors in the Meat Traders Journal Pork Pie contest in Bolton. Judges were impressed by the meaty contents of the pie and the perfectly produced pastry. Steven said: “The ingredients we use in the pies has been the key and it feels fantastic to have won first prize”.

Allan Bennett Ltd, 15 Station Road, Codsall. WV8 1BX Tel: 01902 842204 Open 6 days a week : Monday to Friday 7am-5.30pm, Saturday 7am-5pm

96 Windmill Lane, Castlecroft, Wolverhampton WV3 8HG

NEW ‘Bring your own dishes’ service We will fill your dishes with delicious meals prepared fresh in our kitchen using Poxon’s quality meats

Quality Butchers Tel: 01902 761693

www.poxonsbutchers.co.uk

Dishes include: Lasagne / Cannelloni / Meatballs / Quiches We also make sweet pies.

We now have Staffordshire lamb in stock

Specialists in high quality British meat for over 50 years Comprehensive range of pork pies using the finest ingredients

wolverhampton west magazine

A new perspective

Using the latest in drone technology Wolverhampton-based aerial photography experts, iSky Media, enable their clients to see the world from a whole new viewpoint.

assess issues at their property, saving hundreds of pounds and time in the process.

Whether it’s providing a different perspective for a special event, capturing breath-taking footage of a treasured classic car or offering an up-close-and-personal look at difficult to reach places (chimneys, roofs etc). iSky’s drones are so versatile that any aerial view is possible.

And, homeowners have been delighted with the cost-effective and efficient service too.

As company director, Daniel Parton explains: “We’re Civil Aviation Authority accredited and fully insured for the commercial flight of drones.”

For those selling their property, iSky can turn footage into premium promotional video.

Offering a professional and highly efficient service, the iSky team are able to fly their drones to most locations and capture footage quickly and effectively, providing clients – which include housing associations, architects and estate agents and the general public – with all the material they need in either photo or video form. “Our drones are regularly employed to inspect hard-to-reach areas of buildings, like chimneys and roofs, because they eliminate the need for costly scaffolding as well as reducing time scales.” Both domestic and commercial clients alike have used iSky’s drones to diagnose and

“We were asked to use our drones to capture footage of Wolverhampton’s St John’s Church recently, we arrived on-site in the morning and had all the footage required ready to deliver within hours.”

“Our property and land surveys provide an indepth look at any location you may be considering purchasing, or that you already own, to give you a viewpoint that allows you to see it from every angle.”

Of course, the drones can be used for creative projects too and are perfect for a special event. “We can provide raw footage or edit it to create a unique piece of media that’ll capture the magic from a different perspective.” iSky’s aerial video and photography is just what you need for getting some amazing shots of your pride and joy, whether that’s your property, car or boat and makes an ideal gift for any occasion. “Automotive and marine photography is a real passion of ours and we’ve captured footage that showcases the beauty of all sorts of vehicles for our clients. We’ve made videos that are specifically designed for selling a vehicle too,” adds Daniel.

Whatever you’ve got in mind, let the professionals at iSky provide you with a brand new perspective. iSky Media Limited www.iskymedialtd.co.uk daniel@iskymedialtd.co.uk Forwww.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk further details please call Daniel 01902 421764 or 07809 419290

C e l e b r a t i n g 3 0 Ye a r s i n b u s i n e s s

The W-ton Skips story

A true family affair, three generations of the Saunders family

It’s been thirty years since Brian Saunders walked out of his job in the motor trade, intent on starting his own business. Spurred on by the discovery that is girlfriend – now his wife, Sam Saunders - was pregnant with their first child, Brian decided that it was time to put into action the plan he’d always had to work for himself.

new direction - I really didn’t want to be stuck working for someone else.”

answering the phone whilst looking after our daughter, Emma.”

After seeing a Transit skip wagon for sale in the Express and Star, Brian decided that a skip hire business would offer the perfect start for him and Sam.

It wasn’t long before W-ton skips was in big demand and, owing to their reliable service, they became increasingly popular with both domestic and commercial clients alike.

So, at the age of 24 Brian started the company. “I took care of the driving whilst Sam – who was 21 years old at the time – stayed at home

As Sam says: “Back then there were no mobile phones and when Brian was on the road we communicated via two-way radio.”

Not long after, W-ton Skips was established. Now, three decades later, Brian and Sam have built a business that boasts a wealth of loyal domestic and commercial clients as well as an unbeatable industry reputation. And, thanks to its on-going success, the company has also enabled the couple to move into other exciting ventures. As Brian explains: “I always knew that I wanted to work for myself and when Sam became pregnant it seemed like the perfect time to get out of the job I was in and take a 58

Imogen helping out in the busy periods (so Brian wasn’t joking after all!)

wolverhampton west magazine

The glamourous side of life - Brian and Sam all dressed up ready for a big night out

The couple’s business was flourishing and Brian and Sam were so busy that they didn’t even have time to take a break when they got married. “The days were long and we were working seven days a week. We got married on a Saturday afternoon and were back at work the very next day, so our honeymoon was spent on a skip lorry!” adds Sam. Keen to keep their focus solely on local clients, Sam and Brian have worked exclusively within the Wolverhampton area throughout the 30 years they’ve been in business. “We were never interested in getting big contracts or looking for work further afield, we just wanted to offer an unbeatable service locally and look after our customers in and around the Wolverhampton area.” And, the company has established a fiercely loyal clientele in both the domestic and commercial sector. “We have clients who have been with us right from the very start, who still use us when they need a skip. There are many local builders who rely on our services too – they know that when they use us we’ll deliver an excellent service.”

Archie at the wheel

and he began managing the office side of the business too.” And, Neil is essential to the running of the company in his role as Manager. “Neil does a fantastic job; he is a real asset to the company. The entire team work hard to deliver excellent service and we work to the highest standards throughout every aspect of the business.” In fact, even the company’s skips are kept impressively clean and presentable. Over the years the company has been mindful of the waste it collects and has always recycled wherever possible. “When we started out, everything was sent to landfill but over the years recycling has become a really big part of what we do and we are always keen to recycle as much as we can.” With the business going from strength to strength with every year that passes, Brian and Sam have been able to enjoy undertaking different ventures.

And, it’s not only the customers that are loyal to the company; many of W-ton Skips’ drivers have been working for the business for more than two decades.

“We’ve moved into land and property development and we’ve taken on many new house build projects as well as a 160 acre golf course in Essington – which is still an on -going project. We’re really enjoying taking a new direction,” adds Sam. And, the couple’s success is thanks to their hard work approach and impressive business acumen. “We have never borrowed any money and everything has always been bought and paid for. That’s why we’ve never had to worry when recessions have hit,” says Brian. Keen to keep the family business alive, Brian has got big plans for his two grandchildren, Archie age 3 years old and Imogen, age 2. “The grandkids are set to take over, Archie can drive the lorry and Imogen can answer the phone!” he jokes. Whatever the future holds, there’s no doubt that W-ton Skips will continue to be one of Wolverhampton’s most respected and well-known local businesses. Brian and Sam getting down and dirty in one of their skips

“For the first seven years it was just me and Sam, now, we employ many local people.” When Brian and Sam welcomed their second daughter, Jade, in 1995, Sam took a step back from the business to focus on the children. “My brother Neil took over manning the phone from Sam www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

– The Design Professionals

Every business owner wants their brand to stand out from the competition, and there is certainly no better way to get your company noticed than with a little help from the awardwinning design experts at Wolverhampton based design agency, OLCO. Working from their well-appointed offices at Bredon House, just off Tettenhall Road, the OLCO team work with clients across the UK to create head-turning designs and high-performance websites for businesses of all sizes. A commitment to delivering unparalleled levels of personalised service has seen the company earn an enviable reputation in the industry and establish an impressive client base. Over the four years they have been established, they have demonstrated a clear understanding of business needs and OLCO’s achievements were recognised last year by CV Magazine when they were announced as the ‘Most Outstanding for Graphic Design Service in Shropshire’. “We were so pleased to be announced as the winner of this award and put our success 60

down to the great service that our hardworking team deliver to our clients.” explains Managing Director, Ollie Cox. “We like to keep things simple and offer our clients a single point of contact during projects, and that is always a designer, not a sales person. We feel it is important for our Clients to have direct contact with a qualified designer at all times, whether that be in person or by email, telephone, video call or instant messaging”. OLCO’s services provide great solutions for all businesses ranging from small start-ups to large enterprise organisations. “Graphic Design, Websites, Logos and Branding are all areas of our expertise and we also offer a competitively priced printing service. In addition, the firm offers Pay Per Click Management and Search Engine Optimisation services to generate new business through websites.” “We place great emphasis on quality and that runs throughout everything that we do at OLCO. We have built strong relationships with local businesses, as well as large enterprises across the UK, and that is largely down to our reliable and consistent approach.” Some of the local organisations OLCO has worked with include Bartlams, Compton Care, EDM Group, RPS Group and Ricoh.

“We have some exciting projects in progress including a promotional campaign we are creating for the upcoming Carvers Marathon Events – which we are very proud to be supporting.” Born in Wolverhampton, Ollie attended Wolverhampton Grammar School and later studied Visual Communication at Birmingham Institute of Art & Design before establishing OLCO shortly after graduating. As a qualified designer himself, Ollie helps his team adopt a collaborative approach with Clients to stimulate a creative solution in all their assignments. “I am so proud to lead a hardworking, professional, young and dynamic team of degree level designers. We strive to deliver the best results on every project, for every client, no matter how large or small.” OLCO provide a face-to-face approach to all client projects and are pleased to offer complimentary consultations for prospective clients, and the luxurious setting of Bredon House provides an ideal meeting place. So, to get your company noticed or to give your business the boost it needs, contact the experts at OLCO today. You’ll be amazed by the results. Call: 01902 213 670 Email: info@olcodesign.com wolverhampton west magazine

Award-winning* graphic design, websites, digital marketing and print. If you’re looking for a local, reliable and responsive team of website, design, print and digital marketing professionals, contact the OLCO team today. To book your free initial consultation, call 01902 213 670 or email info@olcodesign.com.

Visit our website: olcodesign.com *We were voted ‘Most Outstanding for Graphic Design Services 2018 - Shropshire’ in the 2018 Marketing PR & Design Awards by CV Magazine

Bredon House, 321 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton WV6 0JZ

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Bereavement Services

in South Staffordshire

South Staffordshire Council’s Bereavement Services now offer grave plots that can be pre-purchased at Sytch Lane Cemetery in Wombourne and Strawberry Lane Cemetery in Great Wyrley. Plots are available for residents of South Staffordshire as well as people from outside the district. We offer a variety of different plot types, including lawn graves, natural graves and several options for cremated remains interments and scatterings. Plots can be purchased at the time of need or alternatively you can now purchase a plot in advance. Options are available for memorialisation including an ‘adopt-a-tree’ scheme and memorial bench plaques.

which has Local Nature Reserve (LNR) status, enjoying panoramic views of rural Staffordshire.

Both cemeteries have been thoughtfully designed to provide peaceful and dignified places of rest. Sytch Lane Cemetery opened in December 2009 and this attractive, seven acre site is based in the south of the district and overlooks the countryside of South Staffordshire. Strawberry Lane Cemetery is based in the north of the district and opened in July 2013. This cemetery is situated on a larger, 12 acre site adjacent to the Wyrley and Essington Canal,

Our knowledgeable and experienced Bereavement Services staff are passionate about providing a high quality, empathetic service to the bereaved and are fully trained, holding the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) Diploma in Cemetery and Crematoria Management. We understand how difficult and complicated dealing with a death can be so we can also help you with practical advice and guidance on what to do when someone dies including how to register a death and who needs to be informed. To find out more please call us on 01902 696111 or visit www.sstaffs.gov.uk/ bereavement-services

Providing a peaceful and dignified place of rest Sytch Lane

Strawberry Lane

Cemetery

Plots are now available to pre-purchase

Sytch Lane Cemetery, Wombourne, South Staffordshire, WV5 0JP

Strawberry Lane Cemetery, Great Wyrley, South Staffordshire, WS6 7AU

Information about our two cemeteries can be found on the Council website at:

www.sstaffs.gov.uk/bereavement-services Tel: 01902 696111

2903 Bereavement 106 x 140.indd 1

Member of the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM)

04/02/2019 11:26

wolverhampton west magazine

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Fourteen years and counting

Finchfield IT for Finchfield IT PC Support & Service

Finchfield IT are now in their 14th year of trading, providing a variety of IT related products and services to local people and small businesses.

introduction of the ‘cloud’ has enabled easier sharing and secure offsite backup of data. Businesses still prefer wired networks for tighter security, speed and reliability, using wireless for guest networks and mobile users.

The past 14 years has seen some major changes in the domestic market, with tablets taking large chunks of the desktop and laptop market. Improvements in wireless networks have introduced more reliability in connections, whilst broadband speeds have increased dramatically.

Internet scams and viruses are much more prevalent than ever, with many viruses (or ‘ransomware’) being used to lock people’s computers, demanding money to unlock them.

Small businesses continue to have a need for standard desktop and laptops but the

As the world of IT develops and changes it is important for us to keep up with the latest technologies so we can be there when things go wrong.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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A fun-filled year planned

at Safari Park…

West Midland Safari Park has a funfilled year planned for its visitors, including some exciting new events and the chance to meet the latest arrivals. The park opened on 16th February 2019 and will be open daily for its main summer season. Guests can enjoy the four-mile safari drive-through, walkthrough areas and the Adventure Theme Park.

Meanwhile Granville, the baby southern white rhino, born in September 2018, can be spotted charging around the African reserves, with Mum Ailsa, brother Ekozu and half-sister Fahari. There is also the chance to spot Gerald, the Rothschild’s giraffe calf. Born in October, the leggy youngster joined the herd of now ten giraffes, including his brother Fennessy and half-sister Emali.

Additionally, throughout the year, the Park will be hosting a whole host of events including: Easter Eggstravaganza, Rhino Week during May half term, Summer Nights late night opening over the school summer holidays and Spooky Spectacular at the end of the season to celebrate Halloween.

West Midland Safari Park opens daily from 16 February 2019 for its summer season. The events and animal attractions are included in the standard admission charge of £24.00 for adults, £19.00 for children aged 3-15 and £22.00 for concessions. Admission includes a Free Return Ticket. Adventure Theme Park rides are charged extra.

As well as the Park’s events, guests can come face-to-face with the newest arrivals at the Park – 2018’s babies! Endangered Grévys zebra foals Grace and Gamba, will be galloping around the reserves, running rings around their mums.

Further information and discounted tickets are available from the Park’s website www.wmsp.co.uk or by telephone 01299 402114. Find out more on the Safari Park’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/WestMidSafari.

This month we have teamed up with West Midland Safari & Leisure Park to give you the chance to win free admission tickets. The tickets entitle a family of four to visit on one occasion up to 8th November 2019. Theme Park rides not included. Not valid on Bank Holidays. To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize, simply answer the following question correctly…

What is the name of the baby southern white rhino, born in September 2018? Email your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk or on a postcard to: Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY.

All entries to be received by Friday 12th April 2019. Competition Terms and Conditions - Winners will be chosen at random from all correct entries received. The ticket includes admission to the four-mile self-drive safari, Discovery Trail exhibits, animal encounters, African Village and live shows. Usual admission is £24.00 for adults, £19.00 for children and £22.00 for concessions. Children under 3 are admitted free of charge. No cash or alternative prize will be given. Prize valid until Friday 8th November 2019. Not valid on bank Holidays.

wolverhampton west magazine

We are having a start of season shoW Weekend on saturday 6th and sunday 7th april 2019. there Will be refreshments, demonstrations and great offers!

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Willows Dental

supporting excellence in every field some of the highlights and lowlights of his year – he’s just one of the awesome kids we love to help. Harley’s year started with it all still to play for in the Welsh Karate league and yes, our awesome Harley came away as Grand Champion in Kumite (Kumite is one of the three main areas of traditional Japanese karate training, along with Kata and Kihon). He also brought home second place in Kata and silver on team Kumite.

Here at Willows dental we’re a bit spoilt really, we have great clients, a lovely team, all the toys, a lovely place to work and a fantastic community around us. One of our aforementioned great clients is Harley Cottis. Harley is a rising star in the world of karate. So we thought we’d take this opportunity to tell you a little bit about why we like to sponsor Harley. We’ve always believed that champions are made not born, and that triumph over adversity coupled with a refusal to give up is the key to success. We feel Harley embodies the values that we hold dear and thus we’d like to present

However Harley’s winning streak was going well until while blocking a particularly ferocious kick, Harley heard a crack and the

doctors confirmed that Harley had broken his wrist. This put Harley out of action for a couple of months, with doctors’ orders of no training and no competitions. However like all true champions Harley was not going to let a broken wrist stop him from defending the honor of Great Britain, so not long after resuming training Harley flew out to Germany to compete in “The Battle of Hunsrock” and yes in true Harley style brought home from Germany, double gold medals. Now, as if Germany wasn’t enough for Harley, spurred on by his return to form since his injury, Harley set his sights on Greece where the prestigious WKU World championships were being held. Harley fought incredibly hard against some intense completion, but alas their best was no match for Harley who returned back to England crowned World Champion with three medals including Gold in Kumite. Harley, after his previous dojo closed, joined Fudoshin Dojo in Wombourne to set his sights on a new challenge, possibly his hardest of all, because now Harley isn’t just a fighter. Harley is now a junior instructor helping the students and little Ninjas. Neel, Vicki and the team at Willows Dental would like to wish Harley continued success in his future endeavors.

wolverhampton west magazine

Registered Charity Number: 512387

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

A wonderful plAce to visit items and artefacts depicting the fascinating history of this heritage craft. The Exhibition Room boasts a changing display of antique and contemporary lace. There is a comprehensive library of lace and textile books and you can also watch lace making demonstrations too.

Discover something new, try an activity, or just enjoy some ‘me time’ by visiting Dudley borough’s visitor attractions. Dudley borough, the historic capital of the Black Country, is proud of its heritage. Its attractions reflect its unique blend of leisure, industry and history, ensuring there is something for everyone. The Caste Hill area of Dudley attracts thousands of visitors each year, drawn by the award winning Black Country Living Museum celebrating 300 years of local industrialisation; the famous Dudley Zoological Gardens, home to hundreds of exotic and endangered animals, the World Monument Status Tecton enclosures and the 11th Century castle; the Dudley Canal Tunnel and Limestone Mines which immerses travellers into the magnificent underground world of mining and canal boats. You can also stop by at Dudley Museum at the Archives, to follow our self guided tour through the history of Dudley, come face to face with dinosaurs and gaze upon a genuine Turner painting. For lovers of glass, we have the culturally important Stourbridge Glass Quarter, home to the International Festival of Glass taking place during the August Bank Holiday this year. Visit www.ifg.org.uk for more details. One of the last four remaining in the country, The Grade II listed Red House Glass Cone stands a proud 100ft, testament to over 400 years of glass making in 68

the area. Now a museum, visitors can learn new skills in their glass studio, marvel at glass blowing, visit bespoke craft studios and exhibitions and purchase gift items. It is an ideal base to explore the Glass Quarter, with parking and an excellent Coffee House. The Ruskin Glass Centre is only a short walk away, with pre-bookable heritage tours (small donation) and the chance to learn about the history of glass making in the area. Artisans operate independent craft studios and an organic cafe offers tempting treats. The Lace Guild in Stourbridge houses a large collection of lace

Himley Hall and Park is where you can walk the 180 acre Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown designed parkland, the setting for this 18th Century country house. If you fancy indulging yourself, enjoy their bookable ‘Indulgent Afternoon Tea’ experience with delicious finger sandwiches, cakes and scones. The Coffee Lounge inside Himley Hall is open Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 4pm and offers a selection of teas and coffees, light bites, sandwiches, jacket potatoes and cakes. Come and join us in this relaxed atmosphere overlooking the views of Himley Park. So why not come and visit us to see this unique blend for yourself? Visit www.discoverdudley.org.uk to find out more about the attractions, special offers and details of where to stay and places to eat.

Himley Hall and Park

Glassblowing at Red House Glass Cone

wolverhampton west magazine

It’s Time to Spring Clean… The Children’s Market on the 7th April, will give parents the opportunity to sell all of those pre-loved toys, clothes and equipment, at an amazing price of just £12 a stall. The event will run from 10am to 3pm and with a petting farm, donkey rides, fairground and free craft area, there will be plenty to keep the children amused. Kate Kingsley, from Penkridge Market commented: “This could be a great chance for parents to get rid of all those unwanted toys and clothes that children have grown out of, and make some money at the same time. Older children could also get involved and see it as a way of making some extra pocket money.”

Penkridge Market is encouraging everyone to have a good ‘Spring Clean’ this April in time for its Children’s Market on the 7th April and its two Bank Holiday Markets on the 22nd April and 6th May. At each event, there will be the opportunity for you to turn all of your unwanted possessions into cash, whilst having a great day out at the same time.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

The Car Boot Sales on the 22nd April and 6th May will give everyone a chance to sell their unused items, from tools and toys, to books and CDs. The site is hard standing (so no muddy fields) and with a fee of just £10 per car and £15 for a van, you’re bound to make a great profit. There’s no need to book, just simply turn up on the day from 6am. For more information and to book a stall at the Children’s Market, please log onto its website www.penkridgemarket.co.uk and visit the traders page or telephone 01785 714221.

PAYCARE IN THE COMMUNITY Office DOnatiOn & its impact in the cOmmunity At Paycare, people are at the heart of everything we do. With our roots in Wolverhampton dating back to 1874, we’re passionate about giving back to our local communities as we continue to grow and flourish. As a not-for-profit Health Cash Plan provider, our mission is to ensure that our Policyholders — whether families, individuals or employers — are able to access a range of healthcare services that both prevent and support their physical, mental and financial health.

order to communicate effectively with our local communities and, this year, we’ve decided to take a slightly different approach. Within our features, we’re dedicating our editorial and advert space to

showcase some of the fantastic charities that we’re proud to support across the region. In this edition, we’re looking at the value of donating unused office space to causes and initiatives, which otherwise might not be able to operate effectively due to the financial pressures that come with running an office and paying rent and bills.

For a number of years, we’ve supported Wolverhampton West and TVL Magazine in

the sickle cell & thalassaemia suppOrt prOject During 2017 and 2018, we reorganised our Head Office, Paycare House, on George Street and were able to offer some space to The Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia Support Project which promotes awareness of the inherited blood disorders affecting haemoglobin, and provides counselling, support, screening and training activities.

The charity, which launched in 1990, has benefited from this space by having the valuable opportunity to welcome patients to have these insightful and potentially life-saving health checks.

Below: Kevin Rogers with Sutinder Herian of The Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia Support Project at a lunch put on by Paycare to allow all Paycare House tenants to get to know each other

wolverhampton west magazine

MARCH/APRIL, 2019

prOject GiVe The donation of office space is something we’re very fortunate to be able to do, and provides invaluable help to charities who don’t have access to funding or the financial means to be able to continue doing the fantastic work that they do.

In 2018 we also welcomed Project GIVE, which helps young people from lower income backgrounds who are impacted by ‘period poverty’, which is said to affect 1 in 10 people aged 14 to 21 in Britain.

Kelly Walker-Reed, who runs Project GIVE in addition to Inspiring Healthy Choices, said: “The office space is an incredible gift that we are extremely grateful for. Not only will it allow us to be centrally located within the community, but it also gives us the space to take on more staff and volunteers to continue to drive the project forward and have a greater impact.” By donating our office space, we have helped the charities save over £30,000 in rent — enabling The Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia Support Project to employ an additional case

As a not-for-profit, every penny not spent on enhancing the healthcare services we provide to our Policyholders is shared with causes, initiatives and charities close to our hearts, and to date we´ve donated over £2.2 million.

Above: Kevin Rogers and Kelly WalkerReed of Project GIVE

worker, and Project GIVE to do more to tackle period poverty in the region.

We’d encourage any businesses in the region to have a think about how they use their space, as — like we found — there could be better ways to use it, and there are so many independent causes often run by a small team who would really benefit as a result.

miDlanDs air ambulance charity Air Ambulance Charity. She’s looking to raise £6,000 by May, which will help the charity to continue to save lives. She’ll trek through the rainforest, canoe down the

Our very own Marketing & Partnerships Manager, Emily Glew, is set to unleash her wild side and hone her survival skills in the Amazon rainforest in aid of Midlands

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www.facebook.com/MyPaycare/

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Amazon’s winding rivers, meet an indigenous tribe and learn about the area’s history. To donate to this amazing cause, please visit www.paycare.org/amazon-trek

www.linkedin.com/company/paycare/ 71

Eating Out, Food, Drink and Entertainment

Promote your venue to over 50,000* readers with Wolverhampton West Magazine To find out how your venue can be featured please call Gisella on 01902 744217 72

*over a 2 month period

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Discover a beautifully unexpected floral haven at Blossoms. Experience our new menu of buttermilk fried chicken and home made seasonal sides, accompanied by

a unique range of hand-crafted cocktails, craft beers

and fine wines. All in relaxing and elegant surroundings on Wolverhampton’s North Street.

Blooming marvellous. OPEN TUESDAY – SATURDAY FROM 4PM 7A North Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1RD

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WHAT’S ON... AT THe SHreWSbury ArmS BottoMless It’s ProseCCo back! afternoon tea

We are launching a

BranD neW sPrinG Main Menu

£24.95

Per Person

Available 7 days a week Along with a fresh new look at The Shrewsbury Arms

Available 7 days a week bookings taken from 12 – 4pm

brand New Gin & CoCktail Menu Available 7 days a week The Shrewsbury Arms, High Street, Albrighton WV7 3LA. T: 01902 www.theshrewsburyarms.com

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373003

theshrewsburyarms@gmail.com

The Sweet Taste of Success for

Halfpenny Green Wi n e E s t a t e

With the giant strides the English wine industry has been making over recent years, it is no surprise to evidence of this at Halfpenny Green Wine Estate.

per day. They also added a new disgorgement line, a process which removes the sediment from sparkling wine; the same traditional method used to make Champagne, and a method on which the Estate pride themselves.

The Estateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expansion could not have been better timed, as 2018 saw a record harvest for the thirtyacre vineyard, with a bumper crop of grapes, to eventually become their 2018 vintage. To put this into perspective, nationally, the

In 2018, the family-run vineyard increased its wine storage area by three thousand square feet and invested in a brand-new state-of-the-art bottling line, enabling them to achieve the highest quality bottling on up to eight thousand bottles of wine 74

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The Vickers family has worked incredibly hard to reach this point but Clive, the son of the founder, Martin Vickers, explains “We are proud to be giving something back to our loyal customers by continuing to invest in the facilities here to improve the great visitor experience.”

2018 harvest more than doubled the 2017 harvest yield! This was mainly due to the unusually warm and sunny conditions throughout the summer, creating the perfect grape-growing climate. As well as growing their own grapes, Halfpenny Green have another string to their bow; being Contract Wine Makers, their expansion last year and the abundant harvest, led to them taking on even more contracts, with sixty five other vineyards coming to them throughout England and Wales, to have their wine produced! The Vineyard also carries out a Co-operative Wine Making Scheme, which enables people with small amounts of grapes, that perhaps have

been grown in their gardens, to bring them along where they are combined together to produce a beautiful Rosé wine. On top of all this, as well as expanding their Winery, during the summer months of 2018, a new Balcony was built above the Estate’s Shop and Deli, extending their Wine Loft area to provide a tranquil, adult-only area, overlooking the stunning South Staffordshire countryside. It is intended, after a VIP Grand Opening in the early spring, that this beautiful space will be used for Wine and Gin Tastings, as well as private events, where a choice of the Chef’s own Tapas will be on the menu.

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For those that would like to know more about English wine and the reasons for its fast-growing popularity, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate runs guided tours throughout the summer months, giving you the opportunity to learn more about English wine, and how vineyards based in the UK are taking the international scene by storm as relatively new competitors. The day wouldn’t be complete without a tasting of the wines, and it even includes a set two course meal at the end. It’s a great way to enjoy some of the best in English produce and, with gift vouchers available, it makes the perfect gift! Upcoming dates for guided tours include Saturday 11th May, Thursday 23rd May, Thursday 13th June and Saturday 22nd June (booking necessary, head to the website for more information at www. halfpennygreen.co.uk).

The Oakley Arms Brewood

We like to keep things simple, so if you like pubs, a happy, chatty atmosphere, good food and a crew who’ll love looking after you, we’d love you to join us. Our menus are available on our website www.oakleyarms.co.uk and we would be happy to answer any questions on 01902 859800. The fires will be lit and the back bar stocked with warming tipples to suit the season so we would love to see you. John and all at the Oakley Arms.

BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN FOR:

EASTER SUNDAY 21st APRIL 2019 Easter Egg Hunt from 10am-12pm

Tel: 01902 859 800 • www.oakleyarms.co.uk

Kiddemore Green Lane, Brewood, ST19 9BQ • Email: oakley@brunningandprice.co.uk

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Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant Established 1989

Air conditioned

Cuisine of Bengal

Fully licensed

 FOOD HYGIENE RATING SCHEME 2011-2016

Rafique Miah welcomes you to the longest established Indian Restaurant in Wombourne Village, serving sumptuous Bangladeshi Cuisine for 30 years.

Restaurant of the year West Midlands region 2016

“We pride ourselves on our Quality of Food, Excellent Customer Service and Customer Satisfaction.” Recently refurbished in contemporary surroundings, air conditioned and fully licensed.

Open 7 days including Bank Holidays 5.30pm until 11.30pm

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

Tel: 01902 324148 / 324437 High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DN

facebook.com/wombourne.tandoori

www.wombournetandoori.com

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whaT’s on This sPring? Tuesday 16Th aPril

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easTer sunday lunch 2-4-1

Half term fun and brunch, your little ones can enjoy games, dancing and lots of fun, 10am – 12 noon £14.95 per adult, £12.95 per child, includes hot food option for all

Buy 3 courses, get 3 courses FREE. £24.95 per adult. children’s menu available.

For bookings or further details please call 01952 460128 or email reservations@parkhousehotel.net The Park house hoTel, Park sTreeT, shiFnal, TelFord, TF11 9Ba

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Mediterranean grill with a fusion of Lebanese and Greek Cuisine

• Chicken • Freshly made Pizzas • A variety of Salads • Vegetarian Options • Homemade Falafel • Desserts and Milkshakes • Family Platters • Homemade Signature Sauces • Unlimited Soft Drink Refills • Coffee, Teas and Iced Frappe’s

For bookings, please call:

01902 302303 291 Tettenhall Road, Newbridge, Wolverhampton WV6 0LE (Car Parking available)

Buy one Pizza get Second Half Price! *

*T&C’s apply

All food is made fresh to order Fully Licenced Takeaway Service available for collection with on-line ordering facility Small and Large parties catered for

Opening Times:

Mon - Sat 9am - 11pm Sun - 12pm -10pm

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A fresh new look at

The Shrewsbury Arms

The Shrewsbury Arms in Albrighton reopened its doors some 6 years ago and since then has become a firm favourite for drinkers and diners alike.

favourites like Fully loaded Nachos and American Beef Burger firmly staying put, we have some really exciting new additions. The Slow Cooked Pork Belly and Black Pudding Mash along with the Rack of Lamb with Shepherd’s Pie Bon Bon’s sound and look amazing! The Black and Blue Burger with

streaky bacon and a wedge of Wrekin Blue is a new one and our ‘fully loaded’ fries section has gotten everyone excited! “The pub is having a freshen up with new chairs and new carpet and we are bringing in a fantastic new Gin and Cocktail menu too. We have some amazing

With its unique style and extensive menu, the Bar and Restaurant is going from strength to strength. The General Manager Dan Richards, had this to say about their new spring menu: “We are really excited to be launching our fresh new menu on 1st March and cannot wait for people to see some of the dishes we have on there! Building a new menu is always great and getting the whole team involved has meant we have a really ‘all-round’ selection of amazing dishes! With the 80

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loyal customers that come every week, some that come on special occasions and some that come in every day (No names mentioned!) and we love to welcome new faces all the time. We are keeping our Thursday Steak nights, Friday Fish and Fizz and of course our mid-week fixed price lunch menu but we are really excited about the new menu, which runs 7 days a week. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Garden will be getting a makeover ready for the summer and we cannot wait to hold our famous bank holiday parties outside! We have lots going on over the summer and people can keep up to date with our events by liking and following our Facebook Pageâ&#x20AC;? The Shrewsbury Arms is open 7 days a week and serves food every day from 12 noon until 10pm. Call now on 01902 373003.

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WIN 4 Premier Enclosure

with Entertainment tickets

at Wolverhampton Racecourse!

With Christmas and New Year leaving everybody with little spare change, days out with friends and family become a distant memory and the countdown to payday is all that gets us through the cold, winter nights. Luckily Wolverhampton Racecourse has the answer! Everyone that booked a Grandstand ticket online for any fixture in January, received their admission ticket absolutely free. Not only were guests able to enjoy a day at the races, but those

who attended on the Saturday evening fixture gained access to the free after-racing disco too. February was another busy month at the racecourse with a variety of themed race days taking place including Chinese New Year and 60s Night. This year Wolverhampton has introduced eighteen brand new themed fixtures into their racing calendar and they’re already going down a treat! Visitors got their groove on at the 60s Night fixture and those who dressed up in their best 60s outfit were given a free grandstand return ticket to use at another fixture at Wolverhampton. The fun didn’t stop there as those who had entertainment tickets

enjoyed the evenings afterracing show ‘Cool Britannia’, a performance dedicated to the swinging sixties. Guests did ‘The Twist’ and danced the night away to ‘Ain’t no Mountain High Enough’ and ‘Sherry’, followed by a resident DJ playing into the early hours. Prosecco Festival with RE-Take That, Gin Festival with Mamma Mia sing-a-long, and Back to School with Rob Lamberti as George Michael, are a couple of themed race days that are new to the racecourse this year, along with returning favourites Ladies Day, Family Funday and Music Live.

We are giving Wolverhampton West Magazine readers the opportunity to win 4 Premier Enclosure tickets with entertainment. To be in with a chance to win this fabulous prize, all you have to do is answer the following question correctly:

How many themed nights will Wolverhampton Racecourse host this year? Email your answer to: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk or send on a postcard to Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY, please include your name, address and telephone number.

Competition closing date Friday 12th April 2019. Competition Terms and Conditions: To enter readers have to be at least 18 years of age. Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and notified by telephone. Tickets will be 4 Premier Enclosure with Entertainment to a Saturday fixture of the guest’s choice (excluding Music Live and December fixtures). No cash or alternative prize available.

For details of forthcoming fixtures and events at Wolverhampton Racecourse, please visit:

w w w. w o l v e r h a m p t o n - r a c e c o u r s e . c o . u k 82

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AFTER RACING AT

WOLVERHAMPTON RACECOURSE

RACEDAY ADMISSION & LIVE PERFORMANCE FROM Â£40 TICKETS: WOLVERHAMPTON-RACECOURSE.CO.UK www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

By Rob Taylor

The Oakley Arms

It doesn’t take long to fall for The Oakley Arms.

It ticks every box when it comes to pleasing punters hard pressed for a pint. It’s also effortless at keeping content guests who hanker for a hearty home cooked meal. Equally adept at attracting customers in their droves in the heart of summer (there’s a terrifically scenic, landscaped outdoor space to the rear overlooking a lake) as it is during the depths of winter (nowhere else captures rustic warmth quite like this place), The Oakley Arms is the real deal: a genuinely delightful place in which to spend time – whether at night or during the day. We arrive in the early evening, with flecks of snow spitting against our car’s windscreen. I hope the weather forecasters have (yet again!) bungled tonight’s forecast because Kiddemore Green Road in Brewood is not the easiest lane to negotiate during inclement weather – in fact it seems, judging by the facility outside for tethering horses, that some visitors elect to leave their cars at home entirely. I don’t blame them, although as my partner Nicola and I make our way across the ample car park with the mercury diving

deeper still, I pity the fool who dares to ride out here tonight. Inside it’s clear that no expense has been spared and that The Oakley (as locals insist on calling it) is yet another fine addition to pub chain Brunning and Price’s impressive portfolio. With its bar located deadahead, numerous dining areas to choose from, including a private dining room, the pub is impressive from the get-go. And if you like Real Ale then this is the place to be. We’re escorted away from the bar and towards the upper portion of the spacious dining area and sit down at a cosy table beside a window which juts out just proud

of what appears to be the pub’s main entrance on its frontage (you actually enter the pub at the rear.) Here we are presented with menus and encouraged to take a peek at the ‘While You Wait’ section. From here Nicola goes for a ‘Bakewell Bellini’, which consists of cherry purée and amaretto (£6.90). I instead choose to muse at the jam-packed menu (which is dated with today’s date to suggest continual variation and which declares that ‘food is prepared and freshly cooked to order’) without distraction, except for occasional deliberate glances around the room to soak up the ambience. It’s busy in here despite being a post-Christmas Monday evening. Parties of varying size and volume are gathered around us and yet we still enjoy some privacy. Our waitress is polite and attentive throughout the evening and the service from the kitchen is speedy

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– at no time do we ever go short or feel forgotten about. Our starters are ‘Cauliflower fritters with curried mayonnaise’ (£4.25) and ‘Halloumi chips with harrisa dip’ (£4.95). I’ve sampled Halloumi chips many times before and these are among the best. The Kitchen demonstrates good judgment in pairing them with a dip that manages to neutralise the inherent saltiness of the cheese. Nicola seems entirely satisfied with her choice too, and after stealing one of my chips, wishes she’d ordered some for herself. After just a short intermission we’re on to the mains: ‘7oz fillet steak with portobello mushrooms, peppercorn sauce, tomato and chips’ (£26.95) for me and ‘Steak burger topped with grilled bacon and Cheddar, served with coleslaw and chunky chips’ (£12.95) with a side order of ‘Garlic bread’ (£3.50) for her. These were by no means

easy choices to make. In fact, for some time I agonised between the ‘Braised shoulder of lamb with dauphinoise potatoes, carrot mash and rosemary gravy’ (£17.45) and the ‘Seared duck breast with duck croquette, kale, roasted baby parsnips and clementine purée’ (£17.95). Only a last minute jolt of spontaneity saw me plump for the steak. And I’m so glad I did. This steak will live long in memory. Cooked exactly as specified, it is a plump but modest lump of meat that absolutely drips quality. Every bite is an event, especially when drenched in a delicious peppercorn sauce. I can’t resist using the last few of my substantial portion of chips to sweep up the leftover dregs of sauce. This is premium food from beginning to end. And so, to dessert – ‘Dark chocolate and caramel tart with

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vanilla ice cream’ (£6.75) and ‘Crème Brulee with shortbread biscuits’ (£5.95) – and what a fantastic way to round things off. My tart is rich beyond the dreams of avarice; the ice cream cools its ardour nicely though and Nicola’s choice shuffles off her plate without complaint also. Dine at The Oakley and I’m sure you’ll have no complaint either. If anything, you’ll be joining the pub’s hordes of fans (both local and online) in saying that The Oakley is the apex of its kind: a true delight to be enjoyed all year round, whatever the weather. And, no, it didn’t snow on the way home. The Oakley Arms Kiddemore Green Lane, Brewood, ST19 9BQ For bookings please call 01902 859800.

Halfpenny Green Wi n e E s t a t e

has a Spring in its Step! traditionally, juniper-flavoured spirit, the whole day will be dedicated to this glorious British tipple! You will be able to sample and buy gins from small-scale craft and artisan producers, as well as larger producers, in a variety of unusual flavours. The perfect opportunity to indulge in everything gin!

With spring on the horizon, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate has much to look forward to in the coming months, with not only the official opening of their newly built Wine Loft Balcony, but also their fourth annual Food & Wine Festival, followed the day after by their first ever Gin Festival! This year the Estate will play host to their fourth annual Food & Wine Festival! On Saturday 8th June, many independent and local producers, all stocked in the on-site vineyard shop, will hold

stalls offering samples, produce and special deals! Stalls will include English and European cheeses, local beer, handmade chocolates, jams, chutneys and preserves, and, of course, Halfpenny Green’s own range of wines. The on-site restaurant will also be hosting a barbecue, and there will be live music from a range of acts throughout the day. It’s the perfect excuse for the whole family to escape to the South Staffordshire countryside - and to try some excellent local produce in the process! And, if that’s not enough, the following day, Sunday 9th June, the Estate will be launching their very first Gin Festival! Due to the increasing popularity of this,

If you simply can’t wait to see what all the fuss is about, Halfpenny Green’s shop is open seven days a week, 9am – 5pm, where you will find their present range of twelve award-winning wines, together with their huge collection of British Gins – last count, one hundred and seven! On your visit, you can take a well-earned break in the Tea Room or Restaurant, where they will be serving a full lunch menu, daily specials, home-baked cakes, afternoon teas and drinks. The Wine Estate also offers Wine Tasting and Gin Tasting experiences in their Wine Loft yearround. Perfect for an afternoon of indulgence, or great as a gift - just make sure you book a taxi! There’s never been a better time to learn about all that English wine has to offer, so head down to Halfpenny Green Wine Estate this spring to indulge those taste buds! Take a look at our website www.halfpennygreen.co.uk for more information on all that the Wine Estate has to offer.

wolverhampton west magazine

FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL - SAT 8TH JUNE FROM 10:30AM • FOOD & DRINK STALLS • BARBECUE & LIVE MUSIC

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

AWARD-WINNING ENGLISH WINES

SHOP, DELI & WINE LOFT

NEW TRANQUIL BALCONY AREA, FOR WINE AND GIN TASTINGS.

U P COM I NG E V E N TS Wine & Gin Tastings

Guided Tours

Private Dining, Functions & Tours

Available in the Wine Loft throughout the year. Call to book. Gift vouchers available.

Public tours available for booking in 2019. Upcoming dates: 1st June and 22nd June.

Available to book throughout the year, with a variety of catering options available.

Tom Lane, Bobbington, South Staffs, DY7 5EP visit our NEW website www.halfpennygreen.co.uk call 01384 22 11 22

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An enchanting country house

for your magical wedding day

At the heart of a vast private estate lies Davenport House. This idyllic Georgian house was extensively refurbished in 2017 and can now be exclusively yours, offering a setting full of history, warmth and elegance for your wedding day. Come and explore this intimate and inviting venue by attending the Davenport House Open Day on 7th April. Meet the team, discover each breathtaking feature of the house and start picturing your special day in wonderful surroundings. The Great Hall lies at the centre of the house and is the perfect

place in which to say your vows. Alternatively, marry in another of the great rooms, or between the pillars on the front steps of Davenport House. This enchanting venue is yours to enjoy how you wish, so you can hold a personalised and perfect wedding day. Share drinks and canapés with your loved ones in the elegant Saloon, wander through the grounds and magical secret garden and celebrate with a delectable feast in the Drawing Room. With its original panelling, stunning tea-green décor and walls adorned with impressive artwork, it’s the perfect place for an unforgettable reception.

Four luxurious en-suite bedrooms await in the house and four charming cottages in the grounds provide more space for your guests to spend the night, meaning Davenport House can cater for every aspect of your wedding. Intimate yet grand, traditional yet contemporary, this spectacular country house is like nowhere else and can be entirely yours. Davenport House is also available for corporate events, conferences, business seminars, weddings, christenings, Christmas gatherings and much more. To find out more or to arrange a personal viewing of Davenport House, call 01746 716021.

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Open House | Sunday 7th April | 11 am - 4 pm I ma ge s by Dav id Jen k i n s , Pau l W i l let t s , A nd rew Ga le , L au ra May Phot og raphy & Ja rek L epa k Phot og raphy

davenporthouse.co.uk | 01746 716021 |

davenporthouseweddings

Davenport House, Worfield, Shropshire, WV15 5LE www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Celebrating

years 10

Halesowen-based award-winning boutique, TDR Bridal - formerly know as The Dressing Rooms – celebrated 10 years of successful trading in October 2018 and, to mark the milestone anniversary, owner Rebecca Baddeley, organised a fabulous bridal fashion show. As Rebecca explains:

“The day was a huge success with over 200 brides-to-be in attendance - it was just what we envisaged.”

wolverhampton west magazine

Veni Infantino – the head designer for Ronald Joyce International – along with award-winning hairdressers – and Real Housewives of Cheshire regulars – Royston Blythe and Nick Malenko were among the special guests. “Royston and Nick created amazing hair looks for our catwalk models and their flair and creativity is infectious. They are incredibly talented and it was a pleasure to collaborate with them.” The catwalk showcased the very best in design from Ronald Joyce with brand new, never seen before collections. “The show was highly professional and really spectacular.”

“The brides loved every minute of their time at the show. “ And, for TDR that’s the most important thing. “We’ve won many awards and achieved plenty of accolades but, we’ve never got ahead of ourselves.

We always stay true to who we are.” The team are committed to delivering good, old-fashioned service, with a little TDR magic thrown in for good measure. “We just love what we do and this is reflected in what our brides say about us. My amazing team of staff just keep on delivering and raising the bar in this wonderful industry – they just love what they do,” adds Rebecca.

Following each catwalk show, brides in the audience were invited to try on dresses from the stunning new collection. And, there was also the chance to chat with the designer, Veni, make small design changes and place their own pre-orders of the exclusive range.

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Himley Hall

Always the bridesmaid never the bride While it has hosted a number of wedding fairs over the years, Himley Hall has never placed itself at the centre of attention. This year, to coincide with ten years of weddings in the west wing of this historic venue, the hall will be the star of the show. Saturday 4 May will see a showcase of this 18 century, grade II* stately home, with rooms dressed for the occasion as part of a complete redecoration and restyle of the famous west wing. Managed by Dudley Council, each wedding has exclusive hire of the hall and couples can have total peace of mind about their booking. Glamour and old-school romance have always been associated with Himley Hall, former home of the Earls of Dudley. In 1934, The Duke and Duchess of Kent honeymooned here, and in 1936, The Prince of Wales (later Edward VII) spent his last weekend here with Wallis Simpson before his abdication, while in 1961, actress Maureen Swanson married Viscount

Photograph courtesy of Bravo Photo

Ednam, becoming Countess of Dudley on 26 December 1969, following her husband’s succession to the earldom. This elegance and sophistication continues today with a sympathetic but striking update to the hall’s west wing. Visitors will be able to experience the venue set up for a wedding breakfast, formal dinner and evening celebration. The striking stairwell, complete with crystal chandelier will be opened up to the public to allow

additional photo opportunities for the happy couple and the foyer will be transformed into a welcoming space for guests to mingle and take refreshments ahead of the ceremony. The ticketed event, which runs from 11am to 4pm, is an opportunity to look around the venue, talk to the wedding team, tour the historic hall and sample the hall’s gourmet food. Couples attending on the day can enter a free prize draw to win a free wedding ceremony room hire at the historic venue. The hall can cater for all wedding types and sizes and this summer will be able to offer outdoor weddings in the hall’s beautiful Capability Brown landscaped gardens. The much loved tennis pavilion is set to be transformed into a premium outdoor venue, with marquees available to bring the outdoors inside. Festival and glamping weddings will be available from the summer allowing couples to choose a more natural, relaxed and open-air setting,

Photograph courtesy of Ben Mortimer photography

This year the hall has a range of packages to choose from, all of which can be personalised to make the day extra special.

For more information, or to provisionally book onto the event, call 01384 817817 or email himley.hall@dudley.gov.uk 92

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Himley Hall

WEDDING SHOWCASE Saturday 4 May 11am to 4pm

Mike Browne - Picture This (Imaging) Ltd

Come along to our wedding showcase and be amongst the first to see our newly restyled wedding suites and tailored packages in our Grade II* stately home

To register your interest please email himley.hall@dudley.gov.uk by 15 April 2019

For more information telephone 01384 817817 or email himley.hall@dudley.gov.uk Guests will be entered into a free prize draw and one lucky couple will receive a free wedding ceremony room hire when booking their wedding at Himley Hall (terms and conditions apply)

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An exciting new chapter for

Becky, Elisa, Carol, Eugenie, Hannah

2018 marked the beginning of a brandnew and exciting chapter for Penkridgebased business, Sew Many Things. After eight years of successful trading in the market village of Penkridge, the ever-popular business – that’s owned and run by Eugenie-Li Lane – has a new spacious home in the former Lloyds Bank building, that’s located on the A449 between Wolverhampton and Stafford and only a few doors down from her former premises. As Eugenie explains: “Thanks to the encouragement and goodwill of a local landlord and his family I was able to make the jump to larger premises. This has allowed room to showcase our extensive range of craft cotton fabrics and haberdashery items, 94

as well as creating a dedicated space for our excellent dressmaking and tailoring alterations service.” Providing the light and airy modern retail space and workrooms Eugenie desired, the attractive listed building has afforded the business room to expand. There’s a brand new modern and well-equipped workroom, where all manner of dressmaking, tailoring and curtain alterations are undertaken by Sew Many Things’ team of seamstresses.

such as ‘Sewing for pleasue’ and intermediate levels which include ‘Dressmaking’ as well as advanced-level tuition.” ‘Patchwork and Quilting’ workshops are also a popular choice and of course, all supplies can be bought on-site.

“Everything from resizing clothes after weight loss, to remodelling a man’s suit is undertaken by our growing team of four highly skilled professionals who take a sincere pride in their work.” Sewing classes are also offered to the public, in what used to be the bank’s old safe room, now a well-equipped classroom. “We offer classes for all abilities: there are beginner-level courses, wolverhampton west magazine

Collections and instagram sensations, Chic & Holland. Of course, every dress purchased from Ethereal can be professionally tailored onsite to provide the perfect fit. “We are dedicated to ensuring the perfect fit for every one of our clients and, we’re proud to offer one of the most comprehensive bridal and formalwear alterations services you’ll find in the region,” adds Eugenie.

And, there’s a brand-new venture for Eugenie and co-owner, Elisa, at the premises too, Ethereal Bridal:

Wtoo by Watters, and Johanna Hehir designs are available to order - prices range from £800- £2500.

“The majority of the bank’s retail space is now dedicated to Ethereal Bridal. The name was chosen to reflect the fairy tale, whimsical nature of the beautiful dresses on sale.”

UK based Onlyway Dresses boast dresses in a choice of more than thirty gorgeous hues and their designs are available on-site along with bridal accessories from fellow UK company, Richard Designs.

There are creations from international bridal brands like Enzoani Beautiful Collection and

Beautifully embellished prom and evening wear is available off the peg too, from Jora

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Indeed, whether it’s bringing a man’s suit in for remodelling at Sew Many Things or making the dream dress you bought from Ethereal Bridal the perfect fit, you can trust the skilled team to make every garment look amazing. So, why not call in today?

Chauffeur Driven Luxury Cars & Minibuses Luxury Cars - Gold Service Our fleet of vehicles includes a 4 seater Jaguar XJ, a 6 seater Mercedes R Class, two 8 seater executive minibuses and a Rolls Royce Silver Spirit 1981 Classic

A luxury service th at is more aff ordable than you think, call for a free quote...

• Wedding Hire • Evening Events • Airport Transfers • and any other • Sea Ports Special Occasion...

Luxury travel for all occasions Contact: Keith Warner 01902 847145 or 07772 605764 or Jan on 07860 622545 email: enquiries@imageluxurycars.co.uk www.imageluxurycars.co.uk

Specialist Wedding DJ w w w. s p e c i a l i s t w e d d i n g d j . c o. u k

Professional wedding photographer service for your whole wedding day

Full time professional DJ and Wedding Photography

Specialising in wedding receptions (over 25 years’ experience) We provide online tools, video screen and photography during the evening. Free planning area on our website allows you to choose a playlist in advance to make sure all your favourite tunes are played. For more information please call Nik on:

01902 563266 or 07905 329351 Find us on facebook @SpecialistWeddingDJ

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C o n g r at u l at i o n s

o n yo u r e n g a g e m e n t ! Planning a wedding or special event can seem daunting at first and finding the right venue is top of the list. Holding up to 50 guests, the Ceremonial Suite in Codsall is perfect for smaller weddings and events. Delivering an affordable and professional service, the ceremony room is an approved venue for civil marriages and civil partnerships and its ivory décor provides a classic backdrop that couples can choose to customise with additional room dressing options. We understand that every wedding is unique and we want to make the planning process as stressfree as possible. Our wedding co-ordinator is here to guide you through all of your wedding preparations as well as on the special day itself so you can enjoy

• BOSE sound system to play your chosen ceremonial music. • A glass of celebratory fizz for the happy couple and guests. • Use of garden area for wedding photographs. • Free parking and concierge service for the bridal party and wedding guests. creating a wedding tailored to suit your individual requirements and planned down to the smallest detail. Our newly launched Elegance Collection package includes: • Hire of the Ceremonial Suite for two hours.

• Optional extra to include a traditional afternoon tea following your ceremony from £12.99 per person. Ceremony bookings are available Monday to Saturday, subject to availability, and prices start from as little as £799 (including VAT).

• Wedding Registrar.

Our new wedding venue brochure will be published shortly and you can reserve your copy now.

• White chair covers and sashes personalised to your colour theme.

Tel: 01902 696299 Email: weddings@sstaffs.gov.uk www.sstaffs.gov.uk/weddings

• Dedicated wedding co-ordinator.

Make Your Special Day Perfect Located in the heart of Codsall, The Ceremonial Suite offers an elegant and relaxed setting for civil weddings. Call to discuss your requirements and to arrange a personal viewing with our wedding co-ordinator.

Tel: 01902 696299 Email: weddings@sstaffs.gov.uk

www.sstaffs.gov.uk/weddings

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Prices start from as little as

£799

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Find your dream dress with a little help

from The Dressing Rooms team Brides-to-be visiting Halesowenbased bridal boutique, The Dressing Rooms are guaranteed a warm and friendly welcome thanks to owner Rebecca and her team of bridal consultants. As Rebecca explains: “We work really hard to ensure that every client feels completely comfortable from the moment they step through the door.” Rebecca and her team have dedicated a large part of their website to bridal guides and staff profiles, so that every bride-to-be knows what to expect before they pay a visit. “There is always a fun and relaxed atmosphere here and we’ve tried to allay the fears that many bridesto-be have when they begin dress shopping by introducing ourselves through our individual profiles, so that they can get a feel of the business.” With so many standoffish and unapproachable bridal consultants in the industry, it’s refreshing to find a team that are truly passionate about making every bride-to-be’s dreams come true. “I love helping women to look and feel the very best they can and help them to feel safe and secure whilst encouraging them to step outside of their comfort-zone.” In fact, it’s Rebecca’s quest to make every woman, no matter what their size or shape, feel truly amazing. And, this is a goal that’s shared by Rebecca’s team of 14 bridal consultants too. “My amazing team of ladies have each been chosen not because of some fabulous sales technique but because they are all kind, honest, caring ladies who love what they do.” Stocking a range of dresses from bridal brands like, Enzoani, Eddy K, Ronald Joyce, Mori Lee, Sottero & Midgley, Justin Alexander, Wendy Makin, House of Mooshski and Aire Barcelona, the boutique is bursting with beautiful designs.

“There’s everything for every bride and her bridesmaids here at The Dressing Rooms. Our bridesmaid dresses are from brands like Dessy, Veromia, D’zage and Mori Lee and our bridal accessory ranges include veils from Polished Pearl, a company that creates jobs for women who are victims of trafficking.”

Rebecca Baddeley

Rebecca takes personal responsibility for every aspect of the business. “I am responsible for every single dress we stock, every single order placed and for every single bride. I couldn’t do any of it without the hard work and full support of my incredible team.” As a fully Qualified Florist (C & G III) and a HND in Business & Finance, Rebecca is well-placed to ensure the smooth running of The Dressing Rooms. “Not only am I the leader of this amazing business but I’m also the creative director of it too,” adds Rebecca. And, it’s a role that she relishes. Unsurprisingly the team have delighted hundreds of brides-to-be over the 12 years that The Dressing Rooms has been in business and, the company has achieved industry success too with two prestigious awards: Best Bridal Retailer TWIA England 2018 and Bridal Buyers Awards Best Bridal Retailer England 2017. So, to find your dream dress, pay a visit to The Dressing Rooms today.

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TDRBridal tdrbridal tdrbridal

0121 423 2777 Option 1

24 Manor Lane, Halesowen, West Midlands B62 8QB

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Open: Monday: 9:30am - 8pm Tuesday: 9:30am - 8pm Wednesday: 9:30am - 3pm Thursday: 9:30am - 8pm Friday: 9:30 - 5pm Saturday: 9:00am - 5pm Sunday: 11am - 5pm

hello@tdr-bridal.co.uk

Beautiful hair for your big day If you’re planning your summer wedding then you’ll be busy making those all-important preparations that’ll make your big day amazing. And, there’s definitely one thing that you won’t want to overlook: your hair. Hair up? Hair down? Classic or contemporary? Bohemian, romantic or sexy? There are so many things to consider when planning your bridal hairstyle and, whether you’re a lowkey bride or self-confessed Bridezilla, finding your wedding hair look should be one thing that you tick off your ‘to do’ list as early as possible. So, to make sure that your hair looks amazing, we caught up with the experts at Royston Blythe to bring you the ultimate guide to planning the perfect ‘do for your big day. Nick says: “Fall in love with your wedding look and style months in advance and prepare for the most fabulous version of yourself. Make sure that you put the same planning into your hair that you would any other aspect of your big 100

day. Forward planning will have your hair colour, length, condition and style looking absolutely perfect.”

your hair colour and length are ready and it’s your last chance to make sure you love your look.

Here’s what to do and when:

One week to go…

Six months to go…

A final trim and a nourishing treatment should be the only considerations at this stage. Kerastase FUSIO Dose treatments are a fabulous way to enhance condition and shine. If you’re wearing your hair up follow the advice your bridal hairdresser gives on the best treatment option – remember not to over soften.

Research! Your normal hairdresser may be amazing at cutting and colouring your locks but that doesn’t make them a bridal hair specialist. So, do your research and find a bridal hair expert for the best results. Schedule your first visit to the salon and attend armed with plenty of inspiration to help your hairdresser understand your bridal style and vision. Haven’t got a clue? Don’t worry, your bridal hair expert will provide plenty of ideas.

Three months to go… Decide your colour goals at the earliest opportunity and plan any changes accordingly. Remember, the best colour is the one that makes you feel like you. Considering hair extensions? Now is the time to book in at the salon. Rapture hair extensions are a favourite at Royston Blythe because the hair is so natural and healthy and they can be applied in only one hour. Plus, they’re really easy to look after when you’re away from the salon too.

On the day… Allow plenty of time for styling, wear something that can be easily removed without messing up your hair then sit back, relax and enjoy every moment of your special day! To find your perfect bridal look, book a complimentary wedding hair consultation at the salon today and discuss your ideas with one of Royston Blythe’s bridal hair specialists.

One month to go… Invest in a Keratin treatment. If your hair is naturally frizzy and rebellious, now is the time to tame it. Leaving this treatment any closer to your wedding day could risk flat, limp hair rather than ubershiny locks you’re lusting after.

Two weeks to go… Now it’s time to fine tune your colour. Whether you book in for a root touch up or a few light ribbons to brighten the complexion, you need to get the timing right because hair dye needs a little time to settle. Plan your final dress rehearsal. This is such an important appointment for you because

Royston Blythe 36 Bridgnorth Road, Compton, Wolverhampton WV6 8AE Tel: 01902 751720 email: info@roystonblythe.co.uk www.roystonblythe.co.uk Royston Blythe @RoystonBlythe RoystonBlytheOfficial

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Aristocats

New Spring/Summer 2019 Collections, Arriving Daily

Aristocats fashion show will be held at Patshull Park Hotel on Monday 13th May 2019. Limited availability. Please call Aristocats for further details or tickets. 104

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• Aldo Martins • Betty Barclay • Eugen Klein • Faber • Frank Walder • Joseph Ribkoff • Just White • Olsen • Oui • Rabe

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

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

Tel: 01902 344003

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The LUMINAIRE CLINIC 106

321 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton WV6 0JZ wolverhampton west magazine

Love Your

SKIN

The Luminaire Clinic talks about choosing a skin treatment that’s right for you! How is the skin affected by ageing? The collagen in the skin is affected by age in various ways. The skin becomes thinner and drier, and develops sags and wrinkles due to the collagen and elastin becoming disconnected. The growth of new skin cells also slows down dramatically, which contributes to dull-coloured skin as the dead cells do not shed themselves as quickly. This starts to happen after the age of 22! At what age should I start to consider treatments? We would always recommend good skin care from your early teens and treatments from your early 20’s. At Luminaire we offer skin rejuvenation treatments and clinic grade pure and organic skin care by L’ABU SKIN - available on Amazon. Our aim is to look after the outside as well as collagen boosting from the inside!

Use Code ‘WWM’ when ordering on Amazon

What treatments work best for anti ageing, scarring, pigmentation? We would say that the microneedling is one of the best treatments around. We use advanced American Technology that has proven results. It’s also fantastic for generally looking after your skin and maintaining a youthful glow.

Our clients have had amazing results with problem areas, like tightening the skin on the under chin and neck areas, mummy tummies and bingo wings BEFORE

What helps with sagging skin?

HIFU is a treatment that is AFTER recommended to lift, tighten and can help with fat reduction too. It’s used by many celebs as their secret weapon to looking young and is commonly known as the non surgical face lift! Which celebs have amazing skin? We think Kim Kardashian has beautiful skin, one of her favourite treatments is microneedling to keep it looking youthful and blemish free.

Our celeb clients love this too. Recently we had Alex Bowen and Ty Clarke off reality TV shows in our clinic, treating themselves to micro needling and our super organic skin care range: L’ABU SKIN.

Final Word We are friendly and passionate about getting results. We have advanced technology used in Harley Street Clinics but we believe the treatments should be available for everyone and our prices reflect this.

The Million Dollar Facial exclusively at

Olivia’s Beauty

Warstones-based beauty salon, Olivia’s, celebrated its sixth birthday last year and owner Fiona Brooks couldn’t be happier, as she explains: “The business has gone from strength-to-strength over the last six years and I’m really fortunate to have established a loyal and ever-expanding client base and I’m lucky to have a fabulous team of staff working for me.” Named after her daughter, Olivia, the salon first opened in June 2012 and offered clients everything from essential beauty services to indulgent treatments. “We’ve always offered all of the beauty basics, like manicures and pedicures alongside specialist services such as IPL and microdermabrasion and we’ve recently introduced Deborah Mitchell’s high-end and luxurious Heaven brand.” Highly regarded by beauty experts and a favourite with celebrities across the globe, Heaven’s products offer fantastic results and Fiona’s clients have been amazed by their skin’s transformation following their treatments. And now the amazing Million Dollar Facial from Dermaplane UK is now available at Warstonesbased beauty salon, Olivias. As owner, Fiona Beech explains: “We’re delighted to be the only

Owner Fiona Beech (centre) with the team

beauty salon in Wolverhampton able to offer our clients this incredible, luxurious treatment that delivers amazing results.” Working from the outside in, the Million Dollar Facial has been designed to deeply exfoliate dead skin cells and remove non terminal hair, polish the skin, flush toxins and increase and stimulate your natural collagen production and cell turnover. And, the treatment follows various steps, which each play an important part in creating the excellent results that the popular facial has become known for. “Firstly, we double cleanse, tone and do a skin analysis. Next, we apply Dermablam then we carry out the Dermaplane part of the treatment, which exfoliates and gets rid of fine vellus hair, otherwise known as ‘peach fuzz’.” The Million Dollar serum is applied and followed by a Dermaroller treatment - a form of microneedling – before a lymphatic massage, hydrating and brightening boosters and another application of Million Dollar serum. “Hyaluronic acid is an essential ingredient in the facial because it plays a critical role in skin health thanks to its unique ability to hold in moisture.”

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Hyaluronic acid is also a ‘smart nutrient’ which can adjust its moisture absorption rate based on humidity relative to the season and climate. “There are just so many amazing benefits from the treatment, including the increased absorption of active ingredients by 80%, rather than the usual 8%.” Of course there are all of the improvements made to those common skin concerns too. “The treatment works on acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone, sun and age spots, pigmentation as well as dehydrated and oily skin.” And a course of four treatments are recommended for the best results. “The Million Dollar facial offers so much and it really is a case of science meeting luxury when it comes to its effects and it is not just for women but also for men too,” adds Fiona. Fiona has been fully trained in delivering the treatment by the experts at Dermaplane and she is always willing to share her indepth knowledge with clients. So, why not try the treatment for yourself? Contact the salon today to book in for your own Million Dollar Facial. wolverhampton west magazine

o l i v i a b e a u t y . c o . u k

“

Be good to your skin. You’ll wear it everyday for the rest of your life. olivias beauty

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Duffyolivia

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B o o shTO X ® L o o k A m a z i n g w i t h o u t L o o k i n g “ D o n e” BooshTOX® is a thriving Doctor-led Aesthetics and Laser Clinic founded by Dr Andrew Booshan – a dual practising Cosmetic Doctor and GP. They have an approach of comfortable, subtle cosmetic and anti-aging enhancements with little or no downtime. BooshTOX® is based at excellent new facilities at Pendeford Business Park near to the Jaguar Land Rover plant in Wolverhampton. With proximity to the M54, this gives easy access to their many clients coming in from all parts of the Midlands and Shropshire. Some of the most popular services offered are: • Anti-Wrinkle Injectables including Botulinum Toxin • Hyperhidrosis Treatment (Excessive Sweating) • Lip Enhancement Dermal Fillers – painlessly under anaesthetic nerve block • Fine Line and Wrinkle Fillers • Tear Trough (Dark Eye Circles) Treatment • Cheek Lift & Mid-face Volumisation Treatments • Nose Reshaping (Nonsurgical rhinoplasty) • Non-Filler Rejuvenation - Skin Boosters, Microneedling & Mesotherapy

which is a highly effective method for stimulating collagen regeneration in the deep tissues of the face and neck. Impressive No-Needle No-Downtime Facelifts, Chinlifts, Eyelifts, Browlifts and Necklifts are possible with this platform and it usually needs to be performed just once a year. As Dr Booshan explains, “The lower face and neck are common concern areas for many of our clients. Our brand new HIFU system allows us to target these areas, tightening up areas of early sagging and perfectly complementing dermal fillers used elsewhere in the face. Our Levura system also has a body contouring feature for targeting localised fat deposits, for example at the abdomen, arms and thighs”. The clinic has also recently acquired the Venus Velocity Laser Hair Removal machine. This advanced treatment is performed by Serenna who is an experienced laser and beauty therapist.

She explains, “We are the first clinic in the Midlands to have this bestin-class hair removal system from Canada. It is increasingly popular in the United States and London and now we have it right here”. “It gives our clients safe, fast, comfortable and lasting hair removal on all skin types”. BooshTOX® staff are fully qualified and insured for your maximum safety and peace of mind. BooshTOX® Aesthetics & Laser Clinic, 7 Sidestrand, Pendeford Business Park, Wolverhampton, WV9 5HD Easy access from Wolverhampton (5 mins) and the M54 - Junction 2

24/7 Direct Online Booking is available via

www.booshtox.com They are also happy to take enquiries by phone on 01902 212 888 or text at 07555 797 234

• Plasma (Plexr) Nonsurgical Blepharoplasty • Vitamin Drips and Booster Shots • Cosmetic Minor Surgery / Benign Lesion Removal • Levura HIFU No-Needle Facelifts and Body Contouring • Laser Hair Removal – Venus Velocity system – treatments by female staff HIFU is a recent addition to their carefully selected treatments. This is High Intensity Focussed Ultrasound 110

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A stylish

By Helen Taylor

spring Model wears Next See in store or online for prices.

After a long, cold winter we’re all eager to pack away those woolly jumpers, thermal tights and boots, ready to embrace the new season’s fashion looks. And, there are plenty of perfect spring styles on offer that’ll look amazing when the sun shines. Whether you’re dressing for work or play, you’ll feel fabulous in lightweight layers, beautiful prints and vibrant hues.

Model wears Next See in store or online for prices.

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Top £32. River Island

Floral Dress £19.99. New Look

Chunky Hoop Earrings £5. Accessorize

Denim Dress see in store or online for prices. Oasis

‘Saskia’ Trench £199. Hobbs

‘Ditsy Print’ Leather Bag £95. Cath Kidston

‘Vic’ Shorts £69. Hobbs

Cats Eye Sunglasses £14. Oasis

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‘Hourglass’ Sandals £62. Office

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WOLVERHAMPTON HOSPITAL

Women of all ages can be affected by breast disease, but not all breast disease can be cancer. We would advise every woman to check her breasts regularly so that any changes, however small, can be detected and acted upon immediately. If you feel any abnormality in your breasts, it will be reassuring to know that our â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Rapid Access Breast Care Clinicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is available to you as a patient paying for yourself at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital. With specialist state-of-the-art imaging equipment, you will receive a clinical examination, a mammogram & ultrasound from our experienced specialists, followed by a detailed explanation of your results. For real peace of mind call us to make an appointment today. 01902 275 856 nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/wolverhampton @WolvesNuffield Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital 114

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ONE STOP breast care clinic

A same day self referral breast clinic is now available privately twice a week at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital. People who notice changes can be referred to the One-Stop Breast Clinic to have the results from both a specialist consultation and imaging on the same day.

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK, with 31% of all cancers diagnosed in women being breast cancer. Survival from the disease has been improving over time as a result of both early detection and improvements in treatment. Now approximately three out of four women diagnosed with breast cancer are still alive 10 years later. However about 12,000 women in the UK die from breast cancer every year. ‘One-Stop’ integrated breast clinics are now available at the Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital. Private patients can be seen by a specialist consultant and if required, have a mammogram, ultrasound scan and biopsy done before returning to see the consultant again on the same day. The available imaging results are discussed with the patient and time is allowed for any queries to be explained. One-Stop clinic packages start from £350. Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital uses the latest Full Field Digital Mammography unit and offers the One-Stop Breast Clinic at least twice a week with Consultant Oncoplastic surgeons Mrs Pilar Matey and Mr Tapan

Consultant breast surgeons at Nuffield Health Mr Tapan Sircar and Mrs Pilar Matey with consultant radiologist for breast imaging Dr Marie Metelko with the breast care team of specialist nursing, haematology and imaging staff

Sircar and Consultant Radiologist Dr Marie Metelko. Other consultant colleagues include Mr Isgar, Mr Usman and Mr Mylvaganam as well as specialist nursing, haematology and radiographic staff. All tests and assessments are carried out in accordance with the latest National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines. Radiology Manager, Lucy Willcox, explains,” We’re really excited to re-launch this new One-Stop breast clinic. Patients who are concerned about changes in their breasts can see a specialist breast consultant, have the appropriate imaging done and in most cases receive their results on the same day.” Breast cancer starts when the cells in the breast begin to grow in an uncontrolled way and build up to form a lump, also known as a tumour. As the cancer grows, cells can spread to other parts of the body and this can then become life-threatening. The one

stop service at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital follows the most recent guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). If you have any changes to your breast, you should make an appointment to see your GP straight away. You may not have cancer but if you do, being diagnosed and treated at an early stage may mean that you are more likely to survive breast cancer. Being breast aware is about being conscious of how your breasts normally look and feel at different times of the month and checking them regularly. For more information or to make an appointment with the One Stop Breast Clinic direct, please ring: 01902 275 856. In 2018, Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital celebrated 40 years in Tettenhall. Over the same period, since 1978, Cancer Research UK has helped double cancer survival rates.

Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital

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Start Your Weight-Loss Journey with The 1:1 Diet

by Cambridge Weight Plan The reason that Cambridge Weight Plan has always been so successful is because of the unique relationship that’s built between Consultant and dieter. And, to celebrate their winning formula, the Company has made some exciting changes. Following a complete re-brand, Cambridge Weight Plan has chosen a name that better reflects the one-to-one relationship that has always set the company apart.

“People often only think about the cosmetic benefits of weight-loss but the benefits to your health are enormous too,” says Louise. Whatever your motivation for beginning your own weight-loss journey you can rest assured that with The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan you’ll have everything you need to achieve the results you want to transform your life. Louise is ready and waiting to guide and support you, so why not get in touch today?

Now known as The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan, both client and Consultant are recognised: ‘1’ represents Consultants and ‘1’ represents dieters. And, the re-brand comes as part of the Company’s commitment to growth and expansion, as well as working to build on what makes the Plan brilliant making Cambridge Weight Plan even better than before. As passionate as ever about providing only the very best one-to-one support, Perton-based Consultant, Louise Peck understands the benefits of one to one support following her own weightloss journey with Cambridge Weight Plan. And, she is passionate about helping others achieve their goals.

Real people, real support, real results

Struggling with your weight? I too struggled with my weight but thanks to The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan and the support of my Consultant I have reached my weight-loss goal.

CONTACT ME TODAY AND LET ME SUPPORT YOU • Available Monday to Friday • No consultation 9am-10pm (weekend or joining fee! • One-to-one private weekly appointments also available) weigh-ins and measuring • Mobile visits available • Private Facebook Support Group • 100% Support Highly Commended Consultant 2015/16

CWPLouisePeck

Consultant to "Man of the Year" Slimmer Finalist 2016/17

CWPLouisePeck

Multi Award Winning Team

CWPLouisePeck

Louise Peck

t: 07790 982 888

e: loupeck1@googlemail.com

Cover Wolverhampton and all surrounding areas

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M OT H E R ’ S DAY. M A R C H 3 1 ST.

T R E AT YO U R M U M TO H E AVE N Heaven Skincare, from beauty guru Deborah Mitchell, has launched a new salon in Harvey Nichols Birmingham. The organic beauty medi-spa opened its doors earlier this month offering a host of results-driven therapies as well as Deborah’s iconic bee venom products and is already proving a massive success in the city. As one of the country’s most in-demand facialists’, Deborah is renowned for her iconic Heaven skincare range and has seen her brand go from strength to strength globally over the past decade with centres now located in Hong Kong, South Africa, Australia, Dubai, and America. But despite her success, she remains firmly committed to being close to her Midlands home and her flagship spa in Shifnal. She will be taking regular appointments at the new Harvey Nichols salon, working closely with her hand-picked team.

“I have always insisted on the importance of results-driven products that are not only good for your skin but also good for your well-being,” explains Deborah. “I have created a skincare collection that not only leave clients with a radiant, flawless complexion but also works as a healer, helping with a whole range of skin conditions from blemishes to eczema.” At the very forefront of Deborah’s skincare is her famous bee venom ABEETOXIN®, an ultraanti-ageing formula that works to strengthen collagen, tissue, and elastin. The new Harvey Nichols salon, in The Mailbox, will offer her 60-minute Bee Sting Facial as well as the 90 minute Bee Slim Ritual. Other treatments include Lia Therapy, the first non-surgical spiritual facial to improve skin and well-being; a range of LED and laser procedures and a full massage menu with prices starting from £16.

BIRMINGHAM

DON’T FORGET TO COME AND VISIT US AT OUR NEW CONCESSION AND TREATMENT AREA IN HARVEY NICHOLS | THE MAILBOX | BIRMINGHAM

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A stand-out service

at tRiM BaRBeRshops that on our busiest days – Thursday, Friday and Saturday – we’ve got extra staff on duty to minimise waiting times. Over the years we’ve earned a really loyal client-base - that’s made-up of gents of all ages, and, we cater for kids too. We’ve got balloons and lollies standingby so that even the youngest clients will be more than happy to come along for a cut. And, for big kids there’s a coffee machine, tv’s and free Wi-Fi too. At TRiM we’ve always had the same aim: to ensure that you leave feeling confident and looking great.

At TRiM Barbershops we pride ourselves on creating amazing looks for our clients, whatever their requirements.

Our Bilbrook-based barbershop is our longest established salon, which opened in 2002. As the business and brand grew, we expanded and took on our Wednesfield and Bushbury locations.

From our three stylish and modern Wolverhampton-based barbershops, located in Bilbrook, Bushbury and Wednesfield, we work hard to deliver an unbeatable level of customer care.

When it comes to cuts, we’ve always stayed well ahead in the style stakes so that we can create those on-trend looks, alongside more traditional trims. We also

offer cut throat wet shaves and peel off masks, if your skin is in need of some rejuvenation. And, for every hairstyle, there’s a product that’ll make managing it a doddle because we’ve even got our very own branded range of professional hairstyling - and beard - products on sale at each of our barbershops. Gift Vouchers and Gift Boxes are also available. Our team are all fully-qualified, highly trained and really friendly, and, thanks to our in-house apprentice scheme we generate our own barbers, so you can depend on our staff to always deliver the best results. We like to reward our clients for choosing us, so we run a loyalty card scheme to say “thanks” which means that after eight haircuts you’ll get your ninth on us. Whatever your look, you can depend on us to find the style that’ll suit you best. So, why not pay us a visit today to find out why so many gents choose TRiM?

There are no appointments; we offer a strictly walk-in service so that our clients can drop-in whenever it suits them best. And, because we understand that you haven’t got time to hang around, we make sure

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119

The gourmet eye

e x a m i n a ti o n Eyesight, without a doubt, is our most treasured sense. It is thought that we can lose up to 40% of our vision without even noticing, so regular eye tests are vital to make sure we’re looking after our eyes.

progress technology has made in the past few decades.”

But here’s food for thought – not all eye tests are equal. Did you know that you can chose to have a ‘gourmet’ in-depth examination, or a basic ‘fast food option” for your eye test? When you have your eyes tested just once every one or two years, surely they deserve the best? Tracey Taylor, one of the directors at Taylor Biddle Opticians, says: “When I qualified as an optometrist 30 years ago, all we used to look at the back of the eye was ophthalmoscope - a type of torch. This enabled me to see maybe 10% of what we are able to see now due to the huge

“In recent years eye testing equipment has evolved beyond belief and we at Taylor Biddle have fully embraced the newest cutting edge technology. This helps us to deliver a ‘gourmet’ service to all of our customers.”

200 degree panoramic views of the back of the eye, building on the 30 degree view we are able to see with OCT. And most of the time there is no need for drops to dilate people’s pupils, meaning that vision and driving is unaffected! Both scans are fairly quick and completely painless. They perfectly complement each other to help early detection and treatment of other sight threatening eye diseases such as retinal tears, holes and malignant melanoma. But most of all we love to be able to show you what we see at the back of your eyes and reassure you that all is looking normal.

Our OCT (Optical Coherence Tomographer) scans deep into the central retinal layers at the back of your eye. This allows us to identify and monitor the most common age-related problems like macular degeneration and optic nerve associated glaucoma. This 3D view of beneath the retinal surface is a far superior diagnostic tool than a standard retinal photo, which these days are often included “free” with some high street eye tests.

This will elevate your experience of the eye test to another level and you will never take your amazing eyes for granted!

In our Compton branch, our latest addition is a Daytona Optomap laser scan. This produces amazingly clear

Fully wheelchair accessible - New coNsultiNg rooms aNd Facilities accessible by liFt at comptoN!

• Full eye examinations • Contact Lens Checks The latest eye scanning • OCT technology Daytona Optomap • Visual Stress/Visual Dyslexia • Colorimetry Assessments • Dry Eye Clinic

SPRING OFFER Free single vision lenses or upgrade to a multifocal for just £50 (T&C’s apply) When you buy a premium varifocal - ends 30th April 2019

34 Windmill Bank, Wombourne 01902 895 909

39 Bridgnorth Road, Compton 01902 750 325

www.taylorbiddleopticians.co.uk 120

wolverhampton west magazine

Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis & Squash Club Heading into the spring, the world of football is swept away by FA Cup Fever with fans dreaming of a Wembley final, and even semifinal, at the home of football. This year Wolves raised hopes of making a push for the famous trophy for the first time in nearly six decades, seeing off Liverpool in the third round before a hard-fought replay success against Shrewsbury Town in the next. At Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis & Squash Club, the annual FA Cup proves just as popular, and just as competitive. A total of 104 players took part in the knockout doubles event which, unlike the club’s annual championships in the summer, is not divided into standards of entries. A sizeable crowd enjoyed the finals evening, which aimed to follow the example of the ATP Finals staged at the 02 Arena complete with lighting and music helping to create a lively spectacle. In the main cup final, Ross Fletcher and Peter Strouhal defeated Ben Webb and Louise Scott in straight sets, whilst in the ‘B’ final, Robin and Jo Birch overcame Chris and Lesley Quick. Robin Chipperfield and Mark Brown beat John Stevenage and Simon Calrow in the ‘A’ plate final, whilst Jon and Ally Rogers won against Alan Hadley and Beth Francis in the ‘B’ plate.

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“This is the fifth year we have run the FA Cup competition, which is something a little bit different to encourage people to carry on playing tennis through the winter months,” says Paul Hodgetts, Everypoint Rackets manager at WLTSC. “It was a great tournament, and we ended up with a high quality of tennis in the finals, as well as a good crowd to enjoy the entertainment.” The FA Cup is just one example of a range of popular tennis, squash and racketball tournaments at WLTSC, open to all ages and abilities.

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Dermapen at

Cosmetique

The team of experts at Wolverhamptonbased Aesthetic Clinic, Cosmetique, have been busy helping clients take care of all manner of beauty concerns using the latest - and best techniques and products.

“The procedures we offer are carefully researched, backed by medical evidence and carried out by professionals.” Dermapen has proved to be an incredibly popular treatment at the clinic, with clients being delighted with the results.

Have you been Cosmetique’d? Cosmetique Aesthetic Clinic is a GP led private clinic, all treatments are carried out by qualified staff. Our practitioners are able to carry out anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers, other procedures are also available. Qualified staff can do laser hair removal, 3D lipo, skin tightening, stretch mark, cellulite removal and many more skin treatments. Cosmetique is not a beauty salon, so clients can rest assured that when they receive treatment they’re in capable hands.

“Dermapen is a revolutionary micro-needling treatment that works to tighten, lift and rejuvenate the skin, promoting natural collagen production with very little downtime.” The treatment is ideal for treating fine lines and wrinkles, minimising pores, dealing with surgical or acne scars as well as treating pigmentation and stretch marks. “As the Dermapen device is in the form of a pen, it is perfect

for treating hard to reach areas around the eyes, nose and lips.” And, there is little epidermal damage when compared to the Dermaroller, which means there is minimal discomfort for the client. “A lot of people have the treatment a day or two before a night out, party or function they’re attending to ensure they look their best.” A course of three Dermapen treatments are recommended and the results are sure to impress. Contact the clinic today to find our more.

Throughout March & April 2019 Cosmetique are offering a course of 3 Micro-needling treatments for only £190 with a complimentary Opera Mask treatment included.

570 Penn Road, Penn, Wolverhampton WV4 4HU

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A method of exfoliation, the top layer of skin is taken off along with any peachy fuzz (fine hair) on the face in order to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion.

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To book an appointment or further details please call 01902 334181 cosmetiqueaesthetic@gmail.com www.cosmetiqueaesthetics.co.uk 122

wolverhampton west magazine

Foot Therapy is pleased to announce that it has expanded the team and now has four podiatrists at the Tettenhall Practice. Jags and the team have welcomed Joy Whittaker in joining their busy practice.

Russell Hanks, has worked as a Podiatrist in Wolverhampton since graduating from the Northampton school of Podiatry in 1997. He has a specialist interest in nail surgery and the treatment of dermatological conditions affecting the feet. He has also worked with Jags many years ago, and it seems “feet” has brought them together once again. Ricky Cheema holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Podiatry and has gained masters credits towards Musculoskeletal Podiatry. Ricky has worked in various NHS and private practice settings, enabling him to gain valuable experience for helping his patients.

Joy Whittaker is a Health Professional Council HCPC Registered Chiropodist who has over 30 years’ experience of treating patients with a wide range of foot health conditions within the Wolverhampton area. Joy is currently the vice chair of the Wolverhampton branch of the Institute of Chiropodists and Podiatrists.

All of our Podiatrists are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and are members of The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists (MChS).

Joy is very delighted to have joined the team and is very much looking forward to welcoming patients old and new to the clinic, where a warm welcome is guaranteed.

Having a new member of staff allows Foot Therapy to create a better service, with the cooperation of its customers.

Friendly Personal Service • Steri Pedicure • Custom Orthotics • Gift Vouchers Home Visits Available

TreaTmenTs for: • Nails, callus, corns, verrucas • Diabetic & arthritic feet • Heel & forefoot pain • Functional & biomechanical issues • Conditions needing orthotics/insoles

Taking the health of your feet to the forefront of importance Open: Mon-Wed 9am-6pm, Thurs 9am-8pm, Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-2.30pm 1a School Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 8EJ For appointments please call 01902

214022

info@foottherapy.co www.foottherapy.co www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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WhY is THE

Anterior Cruciate Ligament IMPORTANT? Almost everyone can remember a famous footballer who has damaged this ligament eg Michael Owen, Paul Gascoigne. Inevitably it means a missed season, whilst they rehabilitate following repair of this ligament in their knee. The knee joint is comprised of three bones; The lower end of the thigh bone, top of the shin bone and kneecap. On their own, these bones have little inherent stability and require muscles and ligaments to enable the stability necessary for normal function. The main stabilising muscle groups are situated on the front (Quadriceps) and back (Hamstrings) of the thigh. Four major ligaments provide stability to the knee; Two located on either side of the joint called ‘Collateral ligaments’ and two ‘Cruciate ligaments’ located within the centre of the joint itself. The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is located to the front of the knee with the Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) hidden towards the back of the knee (see Fig 1).

The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) This ligament is the main provider of ‘rotational’ stability in the knee. Without it the knee is prone to ‘giving way’ doing activities which require sudden changes of direction. eg. Playing football, turning quickly whilst just shopping or even walking the dog on uneven ground. Patients complain that they lack confidence in their knee.

How is the ACL damaged?

FIG1, 1,KNEE KNEE ANATOMY FIG ANATOMY Thigh bone

Knee cap

Collateral ligament

Outer cartilage

Inner cartilage

Posterior Cruciate Ligament

Anterior Cruciate Ligament

Shin bone

Knee Examination When I assess knees with a torn ACL, the most striking feature is the amount of abnormal movement (laxity) between the thigh and shin bone, compared to the opposite knee. In most patients we confirm our diagnosis by performing a MRI scan. Images (Fig 2) show a normal and torn ACL.

How do we treat a torn ACL?

Classically, it is torn following a severe twisting injury sustained during sport, however any situation leading to an uncontrolled vigorous rotation of the joint can tear the ACL eg stumbling down some steps.

To regain the stability required for normal function, we have to reconstruct the ACL using a patient’s own tissue; either part of their patellar tendon or hamstrings. This is performed by keyhole surgery. The images (Fig 3) show actual pictures from within the knee during the operation.

Symptoms

Rehabilitation

Patients’ experience severe pain in the knee and many are convinced they must have broken a bone. Often they hear a ‘pop’ or ‘crack’ sound which is the ligament rupturing and the knee swells more or less immediately.

A structured individualised rehabilitation protocol is provided for all patients. Physiotherapy exercises will be started immediately following surgery and patients will require 2-3 weeks on crutches.

FIG 2, Knee MRI Normal ACL

Torn ACL

A return to full sporting activities is expected in approximately 6 - 9 months.

FIG 3, Keyhole surgery pictures A: New reconstructed ACL, P: Posterior Cruciate Ligament P P A

Distinct Ligament Fibres

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No Ligament Fibres

Before reconstruction

After reconstruction

wolverhampton west magazine

WOLVERHAMPTON HIP

& KNEE CLINIC

The Wolverhampton hip and knee clinic has been developed to provide modern, comprehensive and evidence based treatment for all hip and knee disorders. Mr David Simpson is an established and experienced Consultant orthopaedic surgeon. He is the leading regional exponent of custom made, personalised ‘Signature’ knee replacements.

MR DAVID SIMPSON CONSULTANT ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON

Areas of expertise: - Hip and knee arthritis - Hip and knee replacements - Custom made patient specific ‘Signature’ knee replacements - Sports Injuries - Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery - Cartilage surgery - Tibial osteotomy / realignment surgery

To book an appointment or for further details please contact: The Wolverhampton Hip and Knee Clinic, Nuffield Health Hospital, Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 8LE Tel: 01902 793269 / 01902 793241 email: info@wolverhamptonhipandkneeclinic.co.uk or visit: www.wolverhamptonhipandkneeclinic.co.uk

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

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Going abroad soon?

How Brexit could affect your trip

If you’re planning a trip to an EU country this Easter or for your summer holiday, Brexit is likely to have an impact on you, as FBC Manby Bowdler’s new Brexit Director Peter Wilding explains. Have you had enough of the seemingly endless Brexit discussions yet? After more than two years of debate, you could be forgiven if you have. And you might have booked a holiday abroad to escape the political shenanigans. But if that trip is to an EU country you might find that you cannot get away from Brexit after all. Because as things stand, it’s impossible to say just what the terms of our withdrawal will be – and just what that

will mean for people travelling to and from the EU. One step well worth taking straight away is to renew your passport if it is coming to the end of its life. As a citizen of an EU member state, you have been able to travel within the community even if your passport has just one day left on it. But depending on the terms of the Brexit deal, you may not be allowed to travel to any EU country if your passport expires within six months, and possibly even longer in some cases. And if you’re thinking of taking a pet, now would be a good time to start making the necessary

arrangements with your vet. Under the worst-case no deal Brexit, animals might have to be vaccinated at least four months before they travel – much longer than the three weeks demanded by current arrangements. Driving on the continent is also likely to become more problematic. At the moment if you have a valid driving licence you are good to go, but it could be that you’ll need an International Driving Permit and a green card once we have left the EU. Forget your green card and you could find yourself being charged emergency insurance rates at the border frontier just to continue your journey. Add to that the risk that some flights might be cancelled, disruption at passport controls is likely to add extra time to your journey and your mobile phone charges could be hiked once you get to Europe and there’s plenty to consider. The picture will start to become clearer over the next few weeks and we at FBC Manby Bowdler will be here to keep you up to speed.

Peter Wilding

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You can contact me or any member of our Brexit Advisory Team at p.wilding@fbcmb.co.uk or on 01694 724440. wolverhampton west magazine

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Bantock

Care Quality Commission Registered

24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year

Quality Home Care Ltd provides a domiciliary care service to a full range of service users within the community. Our service provides support to individuals within their own homes, both on a practical and personal level, which enables them to maintain their own independence and lifestyle.

We offer services to people with: Dementia, Terminal Illness, Older people (over 65), Physical disabilities, Mental health problems and Hearing or eyesight problems Live-in-care service for those who require 24hr support

Direct payments welcome For further details please contact us where we will be happy to discuss your requirements on an individual basis: Suite I Post Office Buildings, 31 - 33 Station Road, Albrighton, Wolverhampton,WV73QH (01902) 376904 qualityhomecareltd@yahoo.co.uk www.qualityhomecareltd.co.uk

Caring for the ones you love the most! www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

User Group Spring is in the air, so what better way to use the longer days than spending time outside among friends doing something which is appreciated by so many. We BUGs are a small group who carry out monthly gardening and litter-picks throughout the year in Bantock park, and we are keen to recruit more volunteers to help us. Gardening includes planting in the formal

areas of the park as well as infilling gaps in hedgerows, general weeding, and on occasions helping Park Rangers in more specialised tasks such as clearing overgrowth in the pond and surrounding area. If you have a few spare hours a month and would like to join us please telephone: Val 01902 342715 or Roger 01902 341930 127

The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton

Lest we forget… Mid November saw the Wulfrun Centre hosting Wolverhampton Rotary Club’s annual Tree of Remembrance, providing local people with an opportunity to remember loved ones at Christmas, whilst raising funds for local charities. The unveiling of the Tree coincided with nationwide events in commemoration the Centenary of the ending of The Great War. This timing triggered a thought process in the mind of Tree Organiser, Mike Colley, who explains “I had stumbled by accident across the story of Able Seaman Harris, whose bust stands as a permanent memorial in St Peter’s Gardens. It occurred to me that there could be many untold stories from the war that families would like to share with others, as a fitting tribute to the heroism and sacrifices made by past generations. We created a Great War story board alongside our usual messages and were surprised and humbled by the response. Our city can take great pride in the contribution made by Wulfrunians to the war effort”.

Left to right; Susan Husband (MS Therapy Centre), President Paul Lockley, Vicki Wootton (Compton Care) and Hayley Powell (The Haven, Wolverhampton)

Compton Choir, augmented by Mel Eves

In another departure from past practice, on a Saturday before Christmas the Compton Care Choir gathered round the Tree and lead shoppers in a fabulous rendition of Christmas songs and carols. Shoppers not only joined in lustily, but also donated generously to the funds raised by the Tree. Wolves were playing at home on that day and Wolves legend Mel Eves spent the morning raffling a Wolves shirt signed by the current squad. Mel was a live wire on the pitch in his day and he proved he still has boundless energy when talking to supporters who stopped to see him on the way to the match. The three featured charities for the 2018 Tree were Compton Care, The Haven, and the MS Therapy Centre - all city-based. At a meeting of the Rotary Club in January, President Paul Lockley presented cheques for £1,400 to representatives of each of the charities. Donations were also made to Compton Care and to Help for Heroes. President Paul observes “Many of the comments we received in

the course of our period in the Wulfrun Centre were very touching, and demonstrated to us how fond members of the community are of The Tree of Remembrance project. In the staging of the Tree, the Club is only the conduit and we are indebted to many whose contributions come together to turn an aspiration into a reality. Our thanks are due to the Wulfrun Centre, the Express & Star, Manby Bowdler, Millers Jewellers, Peter Posh and, of course, the people of Wolverhampton and surrounding areas, for supporting us and for making the time spent fundraising such great fun. This joint venture has resulted in funds of just over £6,000 being made available to organisations which carry out important work in our city. Our thanks to everyone involved.” If Rotary membership interests you – just pick up the phone or email: Paul Lockley: plockley43@ btinternet.com - 07592 576126 or Kewal Krishan: kewal@ krishans.com - 01902 688556

There are 5 Rotary clubs in the city: Wolverhampton, Bilston and Wolverhampton West, Wednesfield, Tettenhall, and Wolverhampton St. Georges, each meeting at different times in the week. For details contact wolves.rotary@gmail.com

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wolverhampton west magazine

Living dangerousLy

the vulnerable cohabitee When one member of a cohabiting couple dies, it can come as a shock to the bereaved partner to discover that not all of their late partner’s estate will pass to them in the absence of a Will. The concept of a ‘common law marriage’ – that partners have rights and obligations towards one another as a result of their cohabiting relationship – does not exist in law in England and Wales, it’s a complete myth.

Is there help for cohabitees? The Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 offers a mechanism for people who are not provided for by their partner’s Will; or whose partner dies without a Will, known as dying “intestate”, to apply for reasonable financial provision for their maintenance from the deceased’s estate.

Who qualifies? A surviving cohabitee can apply if: a) they were maintained by the deceased immediately before the death of the deceased; or b) for 2 years prior to the death of the deceased they lived in the same household and as if they were the husband, wife or civil partner of the deceased. In determining eligibility, the Court will inquire as to the nature of the relationship between the cohabitees, including what their financial arrangements were, whether there was public acknowledgment of their relationship and whether there was a settled intention to stay together, putting each other before friends and relations.

What is reasonable financial provision for maintenance?

estate; any physical or mental disability of the applicant; age of the applicant; length of the cohabitation; the contribution of the deceased to the welfare of the family and any other matter the Court considers relevant such as conduct. The Court’s powers to divide the estate are considerable and can include making orders for periodical payments, lump sums or the transfer of property to the applicant. The Court’s discretion is wide, subjective and extremely specific to the facts of each case. Unfortunately this creates uncertainty for those forced to litigate.

Be proactive The grief of losing your partner will only be compounded should you discover your financial stability could also crumble, leaving you at the mercy of the Court. If you are unsure whether you can apply, do seek independent legal advice promptly and in any event by no later than 6 months after the date a grant of representation to the estate of the deceased is issued by the Court, being the time limit imposed on applicants by the 1975 Act. Rebecca Neale of Rees Page’s Dispute Resolution Team, Associate Solicitor and accredited CEDR Mediator.



The Office for National Statistics report that cohabiting couples are the fastest growing type of family in the UK. Bearing in mind that it is estimated that two-thirds of the UK population do not have a Will, it’s likely that many cohabitees are at risk of being left with nothing and may be forced to go to Court to fight for a share of their loved one’s estate.

01902 577716  rneale@reespage.co.uk 8/12 Waterloo Road, Wolverhampton, WV1 4BL

www.reespage.co.uk

The criteria for assessing a claim are similar to the factors the Court considers in a divorce including: the applicant’s resources and needs; the obligations and responsibilities the deceased had to the applicant; the size and nature of the www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

Royston Blythe

The Park House Hotel The annual highlight for the team at Royston Blythe is their sensational Christmas Party. This year`s theme was `The Greatest Showman` and the 120 guests were greeted with the infamous Globe Girls, who opened the night with a bang! After a sumptuous dinner, the night was a spectacle of circus acts to shock and delight! They included Sword Swallowers, Macabre and Burlesque entertainers, all introduced by our very own Ringmaster. The DJ`s then took over, with everyone up on the dance floor and the party continued well into the early hours.

Sponsored by

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Specialists in helping people to retire early www.midlandifa.co.uk

Raffles and games were organised throughout everyone the chance to bag a top-quality prize! 1. 2. 3. 4.

Jason Guy, Leah Davidson, Fraser Tranter Jason Guy Tracey Jones, Julie Emery, Sam Bailey Leah Davidson wolverhampton west magazine

Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

Molineux Wolverhampton Bully held his Christmas Party in The Hayward Suite in aid of The Steve Bull Foundation. Guests enjoyed a 4-course meal followed by live entertainment and a disco. A great evening was enjoyed by all. 1. Kirsty Bull, Steve Bull 2. Dean and Magi Millington & Guests 3. Sabine Medniece, Rajesh Brigue www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

4. Marc Copson, Kelly Grant 5. Tracey Morris 6. Jacky Carr, Simon Carr 135

Sandhills new flagship Nursery in Wolverhampton

openED IN March 2019

Sandhills Day Nurseries, are all about giving your child the “best start in life” and now Sandhills, Wolverhampton is open, children will be shown where to look but not what to see! Sandhills, Wolverhampton offers an outstanding and welcoming “home from home” environment inspired by the innovative Reggio Emilia approach to education. Children will be active participants in their own learning using their natural curiosity and energy to

help guide their development, with the adults being their co-learners. We believe the environment is the third teacher and a lot of careful thought and consideration has been taken into providing learning environments which will cater for all the children’s needs, interests and next steps in their learning journey. Rather than having lots of typical plastic toys, we will enhance the learning environments and opportunities for learning with natural, reclaimed and real resources, offering endless amounts of open-ended play and learning, as well as hours of fun and curiosity. The addition of light boxes and overhead projectors are of great value to us, further enhancing and adding new dimensions to the children’s explorations and discoveries. At Sandhills we understand the busy lives of parents and how difficult it is to find the time to

share their children’s learning journeys on a daily basis, which is why we have made them digital. Thus, giving parents an insight into an immersive experience of what their child has been doing at nursery that day and allowing them to contribute to observations from the comfort of their home. This will make the learning journeys even more comprehensive and enabling ‘parents as partners in learning and development’ of their child, in the early years. Should you wish to view this unique and amazing Nursery and see for yourself what facilities we have on offer, please feel free to come along to our open days on: Friday 12th April, 2.00pm – 4.00pm and Saturday 13th April 11.00am – 2.00pm Sandhills Day Nurseries, established in 2005, currently have six other nurseries across the West Midlands including Alvechurch and Barnt Green in Worcestershire, Boston in Lincolnshire, Codsall, Wombourne and Heath Mill in South Staffordshire – all of which are rated Good or Outstanding by OFSTED.

We are looking for suitable staff, therefore should you wish to have the opportunity to fulfil your career potential at this amazing Reggio Emilia inspired Nursery, please send your CV to sandhillswolverhamptonjobs@gmail.com. Should you wish to reserve a place for your child please visit our website www.sandhillsdaynursery.co.uk or telephone 01902 844450 for further information. 136

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Nominations for the Young Citizen of the Year Awards 2019 are open 1 March - 31 May. For more information and to nominate visit:

www.wolverhamptonyoungcitizen.org.uk or pick up a nomination form from Waitrose on Penn Road.

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LEISURE

Get Swimming

ÂŁ22 per month

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Codsall Leisure Centre 01902 844032

Penkridge Leisure Centre 01785 714152

Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre 01922 417790

Wombourne Leisure Centre 01902 898202 139

Education

and Schooling

by David Williams – Headmaster of Tettenhall College

Vision statements seem to be part of the fabric of any organisation in today’s world. A successful version needs to describe who you are, your purpose, where you are going, your picture of the future and what will get you there and guide your journey, in other words, your values as a business or institution. Our local football team has been rightly praised for having such a vision -to make the club successful on the European stage - and a clear plan of how to do it on and off the pitch with a style of play and certain players brought in to execute that ‘vision’. Large financial backing has helped, and it is early days, but there is no doubt that Wolverhampton Wanderers have captured the public’s imagination (as the song says, “Nuno had a dream - to build a football team!”) not just in the West Midlands but beyond. On the other hand, politicians and leaders from all walks are criticised for lacking the vision necessary to undertake the demands of inspiring their communities. Schools have understandably also embraced the need to have 140

statements of purpose, vision and values so that parents can understand what they represent and the type of education they deliver. The issue is that sometimes these feel too similar, or feel like the products of a meeting or two which are then delivered without any thought about whether they truly represent the essence of the school or its daily work. At Tettenhall College, our issue was that we all instinctively knew what the School represented but struggled to articulate this in a statement to ensure that newcomers fully understood our expectations. We have therefore consulted widely this year to put together a statement which we all feel comfortable to work with: to be the school of choice for outstanding personalised education, inspiring every pupil to excel academically and beyond. The values that will permeate all our work are ambition (the high aspirations for our pupils); opportunity (academic challenge and the breadth of activities); community (promoting shared values, respect and global citizenship); creativity (freedom to set our curriculum and nurturing this in our pupils) and character

(promoting a healthy and balanced lifestyle, emotional resilience, staff and pupil wellbeing). These will not only be words on a website or in marketing materials but will be the guides for all our decision making, reviews of our work and hopefully all individuals who work with us. It also occurred to me in this process that perhaps all pupils need a personal vision for their life at school and beyond, to give their school years a sense of purpose and to create a guide for the challenges that their time here presents. For pupils at the top end of senior school this may refer to a specific career or university place but this is not about a 10 year old stating at an interview that they want to be a doctor or lawyer. It is more about encouraging a deeper reflection on how they themselves want to develop as a learner, having an open mind to all the opportunities available at school and developing the skills and qualities that will give them wider choices in the future and make them better human beings. As I am sat here at the start of the half term holiday, I am now off to write my own vision statement… You can follow David on Twitter @tettcoll_head wolverhampton west magazine

Personalised Education

Open Day Saturday 11th May – 10am to 12.30pm Nursery – Preparatory – Senior – Sixth Form Contact: admissions@tettcoll.co.uk • 01902 751119 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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G a b e ’s W i n a t t h e

European Youth

Olympic Festival Local Teenage snowboarding sensation, Gabe Adams has been busy adding to his catalogue of success on the slopes with his latest accolade: a bronze medal win at the European Youth Olympic Festival. Chosen by Team GB back in January to compete alongside 26 other athletes at the Sarajevo 2019 games - which took place in February and were hosted in Bosnia and Herzegovina ¬ Gabe took the slopes by storm, and, achieved the first win for Team GB. Represented in seven of the eight disciplines at the games, Team GB featured in events including: alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, curling, figure skating, short track speed skating and of course, snowboarding. And, all of the competitors were aged between 15 and 18 years old and there were approximately 1,500 athletes - from 50 European countries – taking part in Europe’s multi-sport event. Playing a crucial role in the development of young athletes from across the UK and Europe, the competition provides athletes with their first multisport experience and allows budding Olympians to follow in the footsteps of Chemmy Alcott and Katie Summerhayes, who both graduated youth events to represent Team GB at Olympic Winter Games. And, Gabe’s win on Thursday 14th February coincided with a special date, his 16th birthday. “I was super excited when I won the bronze medal – it was such a good experience,” says Gabe. “I managed to put down a pretty decent run that got me into third. I wasn’t expecting to win like that – my mum and dad were so excited: my mum even cried a bit! “It’s wicked that they even came to watch – I can’t thank them enough,” adds Gabe. And Gabe’s mum and dad have supported their son from the very first moment he discovered his love of snowboarding, as his Dad, Joe Adams explains: “A family friend first took him snowboarding and he was instantly hooked. In fact, he disappeared at the 142

slopes and when he was found he was busy going off the jumps in the adult park – he’d only been snowboarding for 20 minutes!” Within just two weeks, Gabriel had entered the Volcom Peanut Butter Rail Jam – which had a leg of its tour in Morzine – and won in the under 16 category. And, it wasn’t just Gabriel’s proud parents that were watching that day.

Photo courtesy of Team GB

“After the competition international coach Steve Addicot scouted Gabriel and has trained with him ever since, spending winters in Morzine, Pila and most recently Kaltenbach, Austria.” Since beginning to actively compete at the age of eight, Gabriel has risen through the ranks of UK competitions and for the last four years has competed throughout Europe with great success. And, despite his dedication to the sport, Gabe is as committed as ever in his school work. “The support from the headmaster, Mr Firth, and his tutors at Wrekin College has been amazing. It’s a tough one for a school, to ask them to support an athlete who is away from school for an entire term but they are really enthusiastic, dedicated and motivated to ensure Gabe fulfils his dreams as well as getting a great education,” adds Joe. Following his win at the games, Gabe and his family attended an awards ceremony before returning home with the bronze medal. Congratulations Gabriel! With many more competitions on the horizon, there is no doubt that Gabe will continue to add to his catalogue of success. So, watch this space. wolverhampton west magazine

Individual successes at

Wrekin College

Wrekin College is celebrating a string of individual successes as it starts 2019 in style. Pupils have clocked up notable achievements across the board in music, sports and the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. After being selected for the Great Britain squad at the end of January snowboarder and Wrekin pupil Gabe Adams won a bronze medal at the 2019 Sarajevo European Youth Olympics Festival. He learnt to snowboard when living in Morzine, France when he was just eight and was spotted by GB coach Steve Addicot. Meanwhile talented Wrekin musicians Jonathan So and Atahan Camlibel were presented with their Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music ARSM Diploma.

This is the next step after Grade 8 exams. The ARSM Diploma is unique in focusing solely on practical performing skills and consists of a 30-minute programme where candidates are assessed on musical communication skills, interpretation and technical delivery. Jonathan and Atahan, were awarded their full music colours in Chapel from the Headmaster Mr Tim Firth.

Mr Firth said today he was delighted to start the new year recognising the achievements of talented and hard working pupils. The news comes as the school continues work on its new £2.5million music school due to be completed less than three years after the opening of the Wrekin College Business School. Staff and pupils will be on hand to talk about the new facilities and all other aspects of the school at the forthcoming open day. The event will run on Saturday, March 30 from 10.30am-1pm.

There was also high praise this term for three students who have already completed their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award at the Wellington school.

Jonathan and Atahan

These are amongst the first of many gold awards expected at the school this year which has one of the highest success rates in the country for guiding candidates successfully to a gold award.

TOGETHER WE ALL ADD UP TO Extensive bus routes including Tettenhall, Cosford, Worfield and surrounding areas.

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Schoolboy, Jay, head for the day!

As part of the Birchfield Summer Ball auction, pupil, Jay Barchha, had the exciting opportunity of becoming ‘Head for the Day’ at Birchfield School in Albrighton. Jay, aged 9, took up the mantle with great aplomb and started the day on gate duty at 8:15am,

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welcoming both pupils and parents into school. This was quickly followed by morning assembly which he helped lead with the Headmistress, Mrs Morris. He gave a short address on Morse code and led an interactive activity with the pupils on body language skills. Jay had an action-packed afternoon starting with lunch at the staff table, where he had already chosen his favourite lunch to be served: sausages, roast potatoes and broccoli followed by chocolate fudge cake. After lunch, he attended a meeting with the Deputy Head, Head Boy and Head Girl, which was quickly followed by a learning walk accompanied by

Mrs Morris. He observed lessons in French and English and gave a pep talk to the junior football team. The finale came in an interview by the younger pupils of the school who probed him about his special day. Jay’s answers were very much based round the importance of education adding that “only hard work will ensure good grades and a good job, like being a doctor or dentist”. Mrs Morris commented that “Jay carried out his duties with maturity and composure. He was an absolute natural and I now know who to call upon if we need any help in the future!”

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Award winning education

is c l o s e r t h a n you think All children in Year 7, 8 and 9 have a School iPad with a stylus Apple Pencil to set the standard for drawing, note-taking and marking up documents. Handwritten workbooks are used in English, Maths and a range of subjects. Art lessons foster skills and creativity in a variety of media, from traditional techniques such as oil painting, to chemical photography, animation and film-making, all based on a strong foundation of observational drawing.

Life outside the classroom

Wolverhampton Grammar School is an extraordinary school. Founded in 1512, it’s one of the oldest schools in the country, within easy access of Shropshire, Staffordshire and the wider West Midlands thanks to flexible school bus links. National award winning and ranked top of the league tables for grades 9-7 at GCSE, the school is rated “excellent” by School Inspectors. The school also ranks top 25 nationally for GCSE results across all independent schools. Every student in the school has the best opportunity possible to leave with excellent exam results. But, what’s offered, is much more.

who love their subjects as much as they enjoy teaching students. Small class sizes and space for individual tuition enables the teachers to get to know each and every child.

Reading and writing matters The School’s libraries are the busiest places on campus. Children of all ages reading, researching and doing homework. Although children join the School with different skills and abilities, the early years of school life are devoted to nurturing and discovering talent; whether that’s reading, writing, debating, drama, music or sport.

The school offers over 100 extracurricular clubs – the largest range available from any school in the area. Everything from Political Forums, Technology clubs, Debating, Warhammer to Climbing, Cooking and Art Lectures. From the very best nutritionally balanced food prepared by award winning chefs to the latest science laboratories, Sports Centre and a School Learning Hub - your child will have access to the very best facilities.

Interested to learn more? The school hosts a Secondary School Discovery Day on Saturday 11th May for current Year 5 children from any school across the West Midlands, Shropshire and Staffordshire.

First priority is the happiness of your child Children at Wolverhampton Grammar School receive pastoral care like nowhere else – that’s because happy children do well, thrive, and leave the school with excellent exam results and the confidence to embrace whatever opportunities come their way.

Academic excellence The academic achievements of the students speak for themselves. All teachers are experts in their own academic disciplines, trained and experienced professionals 146

For more information about the Discovery Day or details of how to join Wolverhampton Grammar School, contact Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar telephone 01902 422939, email jam@wgs-sch.net or register online www.wgs.org.uk. wolverhampton west magazine

Independent Day School for Boys and Girls Junior School ages 7-11 Senior School ages 11-16 Sixth Form ages 16-18

Judged â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Excellentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in all areas by the Independent Schools Inspectorate

Secondary School

Discovery day

TES Independent School Award Winners 2018

Saturday 11th May 2019 Wolverhampton Grammar School is opening its doors to Year 5 children to get a taste of what life will be like at a Senior School. For more information about the Discovery day or joining our School, please contact Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar.

T: 01902 422939 E: jam@wgs-sch.net or register online www.wgs.org.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Places still available for September 2019 entry

Top of the exam result league tables in Wolverhampton for grades 9-7 at GCSE

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As a Preparatory School, preparing girls for a variety of senior school entrance examinations is an integral part of our curriculum. In Upper School, we prepare the girls for both selective and nonselective senior schools which are either fee-paying or state funded. Also, we aim to assist parents to choose from the range of senior schools available and find the school which will enable each girl to find the very best senior school for her as an individual. We consider that it is only when your daughter reaches Year Six that the time has come to begin the decision-making process about which senior school will be right for her. When your daughter reaches ten or eleven years old, you will be aware of how she has developed and will be in a position to select a senior school that is best suited to her personality, interests and academic abilities. Newbridge Preparatory School as a ‘stand-alone’ prep school offers children an educational experience which prepares them for their transition into the most suitable senior school for each child as an individual at eleven years old. We provide an education balanced between academic work, music and the arts and sport which enables each child to develop to the best of their potential. Upper School is a place where both the curriculum and the teaching are girl-centred and where our girls have endless opportunities to discover their talents. We enter our pupils into the SATs each year for several

reasons. Primarily, they are an externally assessed benchmark for parents to judge the standards within the school against the national standards. Every year we have a proportion of our pupils who move onto state grammar and secondary schools – by taking the SATs these pupils can move seamlessly into the maintained sector with the same educational records as their peers. Our SATs results speak for themselves:

Newbridge Preparatory School is highly successful in helping girls to gain entrance to a wide variety

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of senior schools – schools that are looking for evidence of a high standard of all-round academic potential and achievement. Your daughter at eleven years old will be a very different person from when she was two years old. We will use our experience in consultation with you to help you choose a senior school that suits her. We will then do everything possible to help her gain a place. We equip our girls with the necessary skills and qualities that will help them to become achievers, not only in senior school but in later life too. We are laying the right foundations for successful careers and positive futures. We are holding an Entrance Assessment Day for Year Three and Year Four (Year Four and Year Five in September 2019) and a Scholarship Day for current Year Two (Year Three in September 2019) on Tuesday 26th March 2019. 149

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Prestigious

accolade

for Sue LeBeau & South Staffs Golf Club For more than a decade, Sue LeBeau has been an integral part of the South Staffs Golf Club team and in her role as Club Manager she has been responsible for the growth and on-going success of the club. As a member of the Golf Club Manager’s Association, Sue has shared information and her experiences with fellow managers from a host of clubs across the Midlands region, which she has found to be incredibly beneficial and useful within her role. And, over the years Sue has become a highly respected member of the association and has recently achieved an impressive accolade. As Sue explains: “I am absolutely delighted to have been elected to lead the team as GCMA Midland Region Captain in 2019.” The association has a long history and its first official meeting was held at Cuddington Golf Club, Surrey on 21st July 1933. Beginning life as the Golf Club Secretaries Association, the organisation was a year later renamed The Association of Golf Club Secretaries. Over the decades, the association evolved to become what it is today and was renamed once more in 2007, to finally become known as Golf Club Managers Association. With regional branches across the country, the association is the premier organisation providing education and training to golf club management personnel.

Sue with club professional Peter Baker holding the Ryder Cup

so, which makes the nomination even more impressive.

to offer encouragement to other women working in the industry.

But, Sue remains characteristically modest about her achievement: “I feel that this opportunity has only arisen because of the reputation of South Staffs Golf Club within the game of golf and the encouragement I’ve received from the club.”

“There are ever more women coming into management and I want to inspire them to believe that there is no limit to what they can personally achieve.”

As the premier club in the area, South Staffs has a superb Championship course, adopts a modern approach to the challenges of a changing sport and is the ‘go to’ club for both new and established golfers alike. “I believe that it is by being part of South Staffs that the GCMA has chosen me to bring a different dimension to the organisation.” Sue is keen to make the most of her year in office and plans

And, Sue wants to help other clubs follow her lead and enable them to enjoy the same success as South Staffs. “I want the GCMA to be at the centre of the change culture which is essential if clubs are to be successful in an increasingly competitive environment,” adds Sue. With Sue at the helm there is no doubt that the GCMA will begin yet another successful chapter and South Staffs Golf Club will continue to go from strength to strength.

Sue’s achievement is a testament to the outstanding relationships she has formed with her colleagues and her undoubted ability to fulfil the role. In fact, not only is Sue the first woman to hold the position, she is also the first non-golfer to do 152

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A war m we l c o m e aw a i t s a t

‘South Staffs’ South Staffordshire Golf Club has everything a quality golf club should offer including a warm welcome and an immaculate and challenging course, extensive pro shop, driving range, Clubhouse bar, restaurant and lounge, terrace and facilities together with access to internationally renowned professional golfer Peter Baker. Originally designed in 1908 by Harry Vardon, over the years the course has been ‘tweaked’ by such golfing luminaries as Harry Colt, James Braid and, more recently, Donald Steel. It is considered to be one of the finest golf courses in the Midlands.

golf, including lounge bar, spike bar and terrace, television lounge and restaurant all of which enjoy the splendid view over the 1st and 18th holes and the Staffordshire and Shropshire countryside beyond. Come and explore South Staffordshire Golf Club. What’s stopping you? Contacting the Club is easy, simply email Club Manager Sue LeBeau suelebeau@southstaffsgc.co.uk, telephone: 01902 751065 or book a tee time online at www.southstaffordshiregolfclub.co.uk

Set in 160 acres, the 6587 yard par 71 course is maintained to the highest of standards and possesses a series of interesting and challenging holes, including no fewer than six par four holes of over 400 yards from the Medal Tees. These contribute to a standard scratch of 72, demanding a mix of skill and imagination to play them. The Clubhouse offers very comfortable surroundings where you can relax before or after a round of

CHAMPIONSHIP QUALITY GOLF ON YOUR DOORSTEP…

NEW S MEMBER Y A D N E P O April Sunday 7th m 10am – 2p

Come and enjoy one of the most accessible and finest 18 hole parkland Championship courses in the Midlands. COURSE FACILITIES Driving Range, Practice Area, Putting Green & Golf Academy. MEMBERSHIP Gentleman, Ladies, Juniors, Flexible, Student, Social & Corporate Memberships are available. VISITORS

“Making golf more accessible“ GOLF LESSONS AVAILABLE

The South Staffordshire Golf Club Danescourt Road Tettenhall Wolverhampton WV6 9BQ www.southstaffordshiregolfclub.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Golf Societies, Corporate Golf Days & Captain’s Away Days are welcome. Excellent Dining Facilities. For more information or bookings please contact: Sue Lebeau on 01902 751065 or email: suelebeau@southstaffsgc.co.uk

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Make your car look amazing with

Select1 Automotive

The experts at Wolverhamptonbased vehicle tinting, wrapping, paint protection and detailing business, Select1 Automotive, are specialists and are passionate about creating an individual look for their clients’ vehicles. Utilising their impressive 25 years’ combined experience and working only with the latest and best technologies, brother’s Rick and Steve boast a portfolio of work that includes some of the best automotive brands in the business. As Rick explains: “We’re experts in our field and have a true passion for vehicle customisation as well as a commitment to offer our customers only the best bespoke packages and service across all vehicle makes and models.” And, it’s this dedicated approach that has seen the company become so successful over the 10 years they’ve been in business.

“We’ve established a loyal base of returning customers who trust us to take care of their pride-and-joy.” Both self-confessed perfectionists, Rick and Steve work to the highest possible standards and won’t rest until every detail is completed to their satisfaction. “Having worked on all of the most prestigious marques, including Maserati, Bentley, Porsche, BMW, Range Rover and Mercedes just to mention a few... We truly understand just how important your vehicle’s appearance is to you. “We pride ourselves on the comprehensive service that we offer our clients; when you choose us you can rest assured that you’re dealing with professionals.” In fact, when it comes to customising your vehicle to a high standard it’s essential to take your car to an expert. “We can protect your vehicle’s paint by applying paint protection film that has self-healing and hydro-phobic properties that will protect against scratches, stone chips and all the elements.” They also offer a range of services related to alloy care including wheel refurbishment, car wheel repairs and alloy colouring throughout. Select1’s professional detailing is carried out with the utmost care too. “We work across all levels of car detailing - both exterior and interior - to take care of everything from maintenance washes to major, or minor, paint correction jobs. We only use specialist car products and techniques to bring out that depth of shine” adds Rick. So, why not make your car stand out from the crowd this summer with a visit to Select1 Automotive?

Paint Protection Film • Detailing • Alloy Wheel Refurbishment & Colour Change Vehicle Tinting • Vehicle Wrapping & Livery • Brake Calliper Colour Change • Bespoke Design Enquiries: 01902 428272/504442 email: info@select1automotive.co.uk Unit 25 The Hollies Ind. Estate, Graiseley Row, Wolverhampton WV2 4HE

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M OT

T e s t i n g Just like us, our cars can sometimes need a little TLC, which is why all vehicles over 3 years old are required by UK law to have an annual safety check or MOT, in the interests of road safety and environmental standards. It is the responsibility of the owner to renew their MOT certificate and without it, you are unable to drive your vehicle legally, or renew your road fund license. The earliest date to MOT your vehicle can be found on your last MOT certificate, but you can have an MOT test completed up to one month before the expiry of your current MOT, without it affecting the annual expiry date. The MOT process is governed by strict rules set down by the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA), which means, what we check here at HiQ Wolverhampton, is exactly the same as the things other approved MOT centres will check too. During your MOT test, we will check several things including; lights, reflectors and electrical equipment; steering and suspension; brakes; tyres; seat belts

and restraint systems; exhaust, fuel system and emissions; mirrors, wipers and windscreen. Many faults found during your MOT could be avoided by carrying out some simple maintenance on your vehicle. It’s worthwhile checking things like lights, wiper blades and tyres on a regular basis. Handy hints and tips • Ask a friend to walk around your car to check each light is working whilst you operate them. • Fill up your screen wash and ensure wiper blades are in good working order. • Check tyre pressure and look for signs of damage. Minimum tyre tread depth is 1.6mm. For more information please contact HiQ Wolverhampton on 01902 420234.

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Tyres • Exhausts • Brakes • Batteries • Servicing • MOTs *Terms and conditions apply. Discount applied to VOSA recommended retail price £54.85 class 4 passenger vehicles up to 8 seats. 100213_HiQ Wolverhampton West_Feb 2019.indd 1

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18/02/2019 14:58

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I-PACE

explodes all EV myths at Lancaster Jaguar Wolverhampton Rob Taylor is catapulted into the future on a visit to drive the Jaguar I-PACE at Lancaster Jaguar Wolverhampton. To say that the new Jaguar I-PACE is an important car for the Coventry-based carmaker is

an understatement. The flattery has to run deeper than that. In fact, not since the launch of the E-TYPE in the 1960s has Jaguar demonstrated its dominance as adroitly. Over four years in the making and way ahead of anything from its premium rivals – except maybe the Tesla Model X, which is more expensive – I-PACE is Jaguar’s first all-electric SUV. And it’s genuinely groundbreaking;

for Jaguar, but also for every motorist in Britain because it proves that electric vehicles can compete against – and defeat – their fossil-fuelled rivals. Designed and engineered by Jaguar Land Rover in the UK, this Big Cat took the Geneva Motor show by storm last year, unleashing a ferocious roar designed to send Tesla running scared into the Santa Cruz Mountains. Seeing it here

Lancaster Jaguar Land Rover Wolverhampton WV2 4HQ 156

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at Lancaster Jaguar’s flagship dealership on Wolverhampton’s Graiseley Hill delivers an allelectric frisson that is unmatched, even though it’s sitting beside so many other striking siblings from the Jaguar/ Land Rover range: the I-PACE doesn’t have to work hard for your attention, it just demands it. I’m excited and I don’t even like electric vehicles. Or rather, I don’t like what we have all come to accept about electric vehicles. The story is old and wellworn: EV’s are slow, tedious, totally devoid of style and soul, expensive and they all feature the same enormous millstone: you never know whether you’ll be able to complete your journey before you run out of juice. The I-PACE blows all of these preconceptions out of the water - and then some. OK, so it isn’t the first vehicle to help erode the EV reputation of old but never has one car nailed the formula with such panache. The engine that’s driving forward this revolution is the I-PACE’s 90kWh battery, which is good for a 298-mile range on a full charge and it generates 395bhp and 696Nm of torque. And believe me, that is a lot of torque - enough to pull a large planet out of orbit almost – and it’s important because in the I-PACE there’s almost 600kg of lithium-ion batteries.

But don’t worry each battery unit is positioned as low down as possible between the axles to create a low centre of gravity and to help give better weight distribution, so this car doesn’t roll uncontrollably in the corners. All that power translates to a 0-62 mph time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 124 mph – and there’s more. This is power that is quicker and keener than flicking on a light switch. It’s absolutely instant – and absolutely addictive. With exterior styling as arresting as its Caesium Blue paintwork it hits you sharply between the eyes like nothing else here on display. In fact, the same goes for Wolverhampton’s newest purveyor of premium metal, Lancaster Jaguar. From the moment you enter the gleaming, modern showroom you sense a palpable buzz about the brand. It’s busy for a Tuesday morning in January, I guess this speaks of Jaguar’s resurgence as a global powerhouse and implies that such powerful brand magnetism allied to the scope of this fantastic showroom – which is so vast it even features ‘drive in service lane’ servicing – is enough to turn the people of Wolverhampton giddy with excitement. Climbing into the Jaguar’s cabin is like climbing into your smartphone. Everything is incredibly high-tech and ergonomically brilliant. Every I-PACE – including this SE spec version – does away with analogue instrument dials, replacing them with a massive 12.3” digital display, which lets you dive into the bowels of the software to activate everything from heated seats to radio preferences. You also get another touch-sensitive panel lower down on the central console, which is used to control ancillary systems, like climate control. Smoothrunning, intuitive and with smart graphics it is a major selling point I’m sure – and so is the I-PACE’s decidedly reasonable starting price of just over £60,000.

The I-PACE is Jaguar’s first vehicle to include the Touch Pro Duo infotainment system, which is capable of over-the-air software updates, and which uses artificial intelligence to adapt to a driver’s personal preferences, ensuring driving and infotainment settings are matched to each individual using the car. See, I told you this car was from the future. More prosaically however – isn’t it still nice to talk about tactile things too? – you don’t sit especially high considering you’re in an SUV but in the I-PACE’s ample Light Oyster leather-clad throne you do get abundant electric seating adjustment with a memory function to help you find your sweet spot. I can’t imagine a comfier position from which to attempt to navigate the rigors of driving through a heavily congested Ring Road. It’s not surprising that the I-PACE runs in cathedral-quiet nirvana but it is surprising to me that the optional 20” ‘Style 6007’ alloy wheels do a fine job of ironing out potholes and, more importantly, that the promised driving range at the beginning of my test is believable. I travel for around 170 miles in mixed driving conditions and still the battery shows over 20% remaining. So be in no doubt: in this vehicle you can – with some sympathetic adjustment for driving style and average speed – trust the promised driving range. And when it does run out, be reassured, its batteries can be topped up to around 80% in around 90 minutes with a 50kw charging point. Faster still, if you can find a 100kw point. The Jaguar I-PACE is the electric vehicle drivers have been waiting for. It is a smart and sustainable luxury vehicle with sports car performance that points today to the future of motoring. And it’s more than worth a visit to Lancaster Jaguar Wolverhampton.

To book a test drive or for further details please contact Land Rover on 01902 715 902 or email info@wolverhampton.lancasterjaguar.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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I n s ta n t W o w

The Mercedes-AMG A35

The latest addition to the Mercedes-AMG family has arrived at Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton. The A 35 4MATIC is the new entry model from Mercedes-AMG, bringing AMG performance at a new level. This compact Mercedes-AMG is powered by a new 2.0-litre fourcylinder turbo engine that delivers 306 hp and sprints from 0-62 in just 4.7 seconds. The signature AMG engine sound is controlled through the exhaust system, which changes depending on the drive mode selected. For racing performance, the A 35 comes with internally ventilated brake discs that are perforated to reduce heat, even under extreme use.

AMG radiator grille with twinblade lamella; AMG performance steering wheel in Nappa leather; high-performance braking system with AMG lettering; AMG exhaust system; reversing camera; Dynamic Select with five driving modes; Keyless-Go starting function; and automatic two-zone climate control.

from the start, it was developed at the same time as the future A45 4MATIC, making it possible to inject the AMG DNA into every relevant detail. The result can certainly be experienced by the driver in the form of authentic driving performance.

Because the development of the A 35 4MATIC was integrated into the development process of the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class right

Take a test drive in this exciting new model at Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, on Penn Road, Wolverhampton.

The A 35 4MATIC comes as standard with: MBUX multimedia system with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Hey Mercedesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; voice activation; seven-inch cockpit display and seven-inch touchscreen media display; hard-disk navigation; Active Lane Keeping Assist and Speed Limit Assist; 18-inch five-twin spoke AMG alloy wheel; AMG suspension; touchpad;

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV2 4HD 158

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Find your perfect “19” Reg Mercedes-Benz today.

Visit us to take a test drive or call us on 01902 276977

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton Penn Road, Wolverhampton, WV2 4HD Lookers.co.uk/Mercedes-Benz Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the Mercedes-Benz range: urban 14.2(19.9)-62.8(4.5), extra urban 25.9(10.9)72.4(3.9), combined 19.9(14.2)-68.9(4.1). CO2 emissions 325-108 g/km. The indicated values were determined according to the prescribed measurement method. These are the “NEDC CO2 values” according to Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). For more information on these values and how they have been calculated please see http://www.mercedesbenz.co.uk/WLTP Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions, chosen optional extras and other non-technical factors.

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Seisdon Garage Est. 1964 • • • • • •

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Aerial Photography 57 iSky Media Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel 96 Image Luxury Travel Aluminium Storage Units 47 Severn Valley Windows Appliances Electrical & Gas Capital Appliance Centre 45 Barber Shops 118 Trim Bathrooms Carvers 17 23 Eaton Kitchens Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 35 Beauty Salons & Clinics 111 BooshTox Cosmetique Aesthetic Clinic 122 Heaven Skin Care 102/103/117 Olivias Beauty 109 Luminaire 106/107 Beds & Bedroom Furniture 10/11 Cousins Leekes 29 Merridale Furnishers 19 Bedroom Wardrobes (fitted) 35 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique Bereavement Services Cousins 10/11 62 South Staffs Bereavement Services Blinds, Curtains & Shutters 19 Merridale Furnishers 30/31 The Fabric Barn Val Hever Blinds 34 Bridal Wear 99 TDR Bridal Halesowen Building Services & Contractors 26/27 Three Pines Butchers 56 Allan Bennett Poxons 56 Caravan Accessories 65 Cannock Caravan Accessories Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists 55 Touch Dry Carpet Supply & Fit 37 Premier Carpets Sandford Carpets 30/31 Car Sales & Service 163 Lancaster Jaguar Land Rover Wolverhampton Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton 159 Chiropody & Podiatry 123 Foot Therapy Cleaning Services - Interior & Exterior 50 Nationwide Cleaners RC Cleaning 53 Composite Doors 43 Doorsmart Community Lottery South Staffs Community Lottery 42 Computer Services 63 Finchfield IT Day Nurseries Sandhills 137 Delicatessen Corbelli 55 Dentistry Willows 2 Diet & Slimming Cambridge Diet 116 Domestic Appliance Sales & Repair Washer Wise 55 Domiciliary Care Services 127 Quality Home Care

Driveways 41 Resindrives.co.uk Education 145 Birchfield School Newbridge School 148 141 Tettenhall College Wolverhampton Grammar School 147 143 Wrekin College Electricians & Electrical Contractors 38 Central Electrical Contracts Entertainment & Leisure 68 Discover Dudley Estate Agents Berriman Eaton 13 Fashion - Retail Aristocats 104/105 Fencing & Gates Profence 52 Financial Advisors Midland Independent Financial 14/15 Services Fireplaces & Stoves 23 Flaming Fires Wolverhampton Fireplaces 19 Firewood 50 Black Country Firewood Fitness & Leisure Centres 119 Chris Jewkes South Staffordshire Leisure 139 Furniture & Furnishings 10/11 Cousins Leekes 29 Merridale Furnishers 19 Sofa Factory Outlet 25 Gaming & Entertainment 79 Casino 36 Garage Services 155 HiQ Tyres Seisdon Garage 160 Garage Doors Garolla Roller Shutter Doors 50 Garden Design Boningale Garden Creations 49 Gardening & Landscaping 48 Lealans Garden Centre Potting Shed 46 Golf Clubs 153 South Staffs Golf Club Wergs Golf Club 151 Graphic Design, Websites & Digital Marketing 61 OLCO Health Care Cover Paycare 70/71 Heating Engineers 54 RS Heating Hospices Compton Care 67 Hospitals â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Private Nuffield 114 Hotels Park House Hotel 77 Italian Deli Corbelliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 55 Jewellers 164 Rudell The Jewellers T.A.Henn 9 Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit 33 Bespoke Kitchens Carvers 17 Dream Doors 39 Eaton Kitchens 23 35 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique Landscaping Products/Services Able Greenscapes 51

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Legal Services 127 Manby Bowdler Solicitors Rees Page 129 Letting Agents Berriman Eaton 13 Lighting Lighting R Us 36 Locksmiths 52 Cummings Brothers Loft Ladders 18 Lyndale Markets 69 Penkridge Market Opticians Taylor Biddle 120 Orthopaedic Surgery 125 Wolverhampton Hip & Knee Clinic Painters & Decorators 52 Kevin Jackson Photography 96 Andrews Creative Crescent Imaging 96 Plumbing & Heating 51 JB Plumbing & Heating Property Maintenance Services 51 S. Parton Building Maintenance Racecourses 83 Wolverhampton Racecourse Reclaimed Timber Specialists 22 The Wood Depot Restaurants/Pubs 73 Blossoms Casino 36 79 Grill-It 78 Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 87 Oakley Arms 76 Park House Hotel 77 The Shrewsbury Arms 73 Wolverhampton Racecourse 83 Wombourne Tandoori 77 Skip Hire 50 Wolverhampton Skip Hire Stairs & Stair Components 18 Lyndale Tailoring & Dressmaking 95 Sew Many Things Taxis 63 ABC Cars Tennis & Squash Clubs Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis & Squash 121 Club Tiles & Interiors 7 Tile Choice Tyres 155 HiQ Tyres Vehicle Finishing Specialists 154 Select 1 Automotive Vein Clinics 125 Simon Hobbs Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 87 Wedding Venues Codsall Ceremonial Suite 97 Davenport House 89 Himley Hall 93 Park House Hotel 77 Windows, Conservatories, Orangeries 33 Tettenhall Windows

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State-of-the-art

aft e r ca r e

Next-day servicing with a complimentary vehicle health check when you return to Lancaster Wolverhampton manufacturer-trained technicians. We are committed to the maintenance and care of all Jaguar and Land Rover models – whether petrol, diesel, or electric. Our fixed price service offering is dedicated to models over the age of 3 years, including a competitive fixed price and a 2 years parts warranty. We also promise to match the price of any competitor’s tyres within a 20-mile radius. Making sure your car is in perfect condition is no longer a chore. Sit back and relax in our comfortable customer lounge, complete with newspapers and magazines, complimentary snacks, and a fully-equipped barista bar – or make use of one of our Jaguar Land Rover courtesy cars to keep you moving while your vehicle is in our care.

Since the very first car was produced in 1935, Jaguar has pushed the boundaries of what’s possible.

What’s more, we only use genuine parts – from manufacturer-produced components to the highest quality products from the leading brands.

Inspired by founder Sir William Lyons, every vehicle made is designed and engineered to combine beauty and performance like no other.

This state-of-the-art workshop is now open at Graiseley Hill, Wolverhampton, WV2 4HQ.

It’s this passion for precision that is at the heart of our aftercare – tailored to each customer and each marque. Visit the new and improved Wolverhampton site, and you’ll be greeted by industry experts passionate about the brands and cars on offer.

Jaguar: Call us on 01902 715 902 or email us at info@wolverhampton.lancasterjaguar.co.uk

From MOTs to wheel alignment, all work is undertaken by our

Return to us with your vehicle and we’ll offer you a complimentary vehicle health check. Book today and you could have your car serviced tomorrow with next-day servicing.

Land Rover: Call us on 01902 393 200 or email us at info@wolverhampton.lancasterlandrover.co.uk

Our Aftersales Team, with four Master Technicians, has over 170 years’ combined experience in caring for Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles. Our workshop offers 29 bays, a drive-in service lane, and while-you-wait servicing thanks to our increased parts and tyres stock. We are equipped with state-of-theart diagnostic and repair equipment, ensuring that we can pinpoint any potential issues with your model. 162

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STATE-OF-THE-ART AFTERCARE Making sure your car is in perfect condition is no longer a chore. Sit back and relax in our comfortable customer lounge, complete with newspapers and magazines, complimentary snacks, and a fully-equipped barista bar – or make use of one of our Jaguar Land Rover courtesy cars to keep you moving while your vehicle is in our care. This state-of-the-art workshop is now open at Graiseley Hill and we are able to offer you: - Over 170 years’ experience in the Jaguar Land Rover Aftersales Team - Drive in service lane - Next Day servicing - While you Wait Servicing - MOT Testing - 4 Master Technicians - State of the art workshop - Wheel alignments - Electric vehicle maintenance & service - Jaguar Land Rover Courtesy Cars - Increased Parts stock - Complimentary Vehicle Health Checks - Service Plans - Tyres - Manufacturer Trained Technicians Return to us with your vehicle and we’ll offer you a complimentary vehicle health check. Book today and you could have your car serviced tomorrow with next-day servicing. Jaguar: Call us on 01902 715 902 or email us at info@wolverhampton.lancasterjaguar.co.uk Land Rover: Call us on 01902 393 200 or email us at info@wolverhampton.lancasterlandrover.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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