Wolverhampton West Magazine - January 2019 by Jonathon

WOLVERHAMPTON WEST MAGAZINE LOCAL MAGAZINE DELIVERED TO 25,000 SELECTED HOMES AND BUSINESSES*

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CoNteNtS

12 The local property market by Nick Berriman 16 Home makeover for the New Year 18 Carvers celebrate 25 Years’ Service 24 Crosswords & Puzzles 26 Carver Wolverhampton Marathon Events Cheque Presentation 30 Rotary Club of Wolverhampton 36-37 Wolverhampton’s adopted son – he’s just incredi-Bull 40 Recipe of the month 44 Friends of Bantock House Museum and Park 44 Codsall Community Arts Festival 46 Dentistry in arguably the most dangerous place on earth? 48 Grand Theatre competition 52 The garden in winter 54 Gardening with Ann Winwood 60 A brand new chapter for The Robin 2 64 Paycare support for period poverty 66 Sybil’s bridge drive for charity 70 An Exceptional Year for Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 73-75 Wombourne Tandoori food review 78 Oakley Arms competition 82-83 Patek Philippe at Rudell the Jewellers 88-89 The mood-boosting benefits of personal training at Chris Jewkes Fitness 90-91 Royston Blythe celebrate double triumph in national hair awards 92 Look amazing this year – Get fit, get healthy 106-107 Ladies‘ fashion – work out in style 116 Golf Tip 122 WLTSC serving up 80 years of history at Newbridge 124-139 Social Scene 156-159 Motoring: Land Rover Velar D240 HSE 158 Mercedes Benz GLE - An SUV with style 160 Answers to crosswords and puzzles 161 Index to advertisers 04

36–37

64 70

73-75 86-87

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CoNGrAtULAtIoNS to: Winners of the Grand Theatre competition to see Sleeping Beauty Susan Law, Wightwick Anne Birkert, Codsall Winners of a mixed case of 6 award-winning wines with Halfpenny Green Wine Estate Brian Hughes, Albrighton Margaret Porter, Palmers Cross Winners of the meal for 2 at The Shrewsbury Arms Jayne Pownall, Codsall Jayne Sury, Pattingham

90-91

88-89 124-139

94-95 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.

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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

Happy New Year! This edition is all about new beginnings and looking forward to the delights of 2019. Yeah, ok, so the whole Brexit fiasco won’t be going away anytime soon (forget the backstop, this nightmare needs to end with a giant full stop – and quickly! All this fuss highlights just how rarely Government actually has to listen to The People...) and we won’t now be seeing the 25th Bond film until 2020 (thank goodness, I’ve seen far too much of 007’s greatest hits this Christmas,), but the new year does bring with it hope and loads of incoming goodness. WWFC’s footballers have made an excellent start after returning to the Premier League (and, dare I say, the Baggies are having a decent run in the Championship too...) – all they need now is a goal-scoring machine like Wolverhampton’s favourite sporting son, Steve Bull, to help guarantee a stellar second half of the season. We have a special feature on Wolves’ legendary “Bully” inside.

As well as this and buoyed by Semisuccess in last year’s World Cup, our national team is doing better than ever – so too are our cricketers (you can read all about future darling of the sport, Birchfield Prep School’s Grace Seedhouse inside). It’s the same story with golf too, after Europe’s success in the Ryder Cup. If all this inspires you to swing yourself into action then check out our hefty sports section, which features news from 3 Hammers Golf Complex, Newbridge Tennis and Squash Club and more. Away from sport however (I’m sure for some of you, you’ve seen too much on TV over Christmas already!), it’s time to move, as in, shake off your turkeyinduced lethargy, peel yourself off the couch, throw away your leftover Quality Street chocolates and get going: WV Active, Chris Jewkes Fitness and South Staffs leisure centre all have ways of filing off your flab. Which brings me neatly to the elephant in the room: the dreaded New Year resolution. I’m not one to judge but... put it this way – if you’re 06

reading this in our January edition you may still be in with a shout at keeping your promise, but if this finds you in February then the odds are stacked against you. But moving swiftly on... You may be looking to move house this year. If so, then why not do it properly with this area’s premier estate agents, Berriman Eaton. Forget the faceless, Mickey Mouse online-only estate agencies that value every house at more than Buckingham Palace and instead call in the professionals (they are real people and you can meet every one of them in our special feature), led by Nick Berriman, our resident property expert (by the way – big thanks for every one of your insightful columns, Nick). Or if you decide to stay at home, a makeover may be on the cards, so pay close attention to our editorials about fresh ideas for 2019 and be sure to see what our advertisers have to offer – everything from house building and extensions to covering the basics with specialist plumbers, carpet cleaners and lots more. And, of course, a house is nothing without a garden, so please resist the urge to turn yours into a car park and read up on all the ways you can transform your winter wasteland with Boningales, Lealans Garden Centre and The Potting Shed. And don’t forget to book your holidays – thoughts of far-off golden sands can do wonders for staving off winter blues. Keep reading and you’ll discover two brilliant competitions from The Grand

Theatre and The Oakley Arms; a fatterthan-ever eating out and entertainment section, featuring a tasty article on Wombourne Tandoori’s 30 years’ at the top, and a helpful nudge straight from cupid’s bow about all the sparkly delights on offer for Valentine’s Day from Rudell the Jewellers and Henns. A Patek Philippe watch may be a tough ask for many of us, but we can but dream. And dreaming big is what it’s all about for the many youngsters in our education section – including those enrolled at the soon-to-be completed ‘biggest nursery in the country’, Sandhills. Bringing up the rear is much Fashion, Beauty and Big Hair news from Royston Blythe, whose team has just scooped more national success at the National Hairdressing Federation Awards. Beside this there are top tips on how to look good from top to toe – but especially lots to get your teeth into about how to make your pearly-whites shine brighter than the North Star; pages of Social Scene (more of you have been papped on the Red Carpet than ever before!), and an exclusive drive in a super-posh Land Rover from Wolverhampton’s new dealership, Lancaster Jaguar Land Rover. This year is on course to be our best ever, so: let politics be damned. See you in March...

Geoff

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The local

property market by Nick Berriman

could tell lots of stories. I remember one semi-derelict bungalow which was to be sold by auction where there was a dead mouse in the kitchen when we did the first open viewing. Perhaps better than a live mouse running around but not ideal!

I feel I must commence this article with an apology. Because my piece in the last edition had a copy date long before Christmas I failed to offer proper seasonal greetings to, especially, all our clients past and hopefully future but also to everyone who reads these pages. I can do my best to rectify that omission now by wishing a Happy New Year to you all. May it bring you all that you wish for and may it bring us a plethora of lovely houses to market! It is, of course, the time for New Year resolutions. I suspect by the time you read this many will have been made and broken but I want to explore the New Year’s resolutions we would like our clients to make. If they are our clients they have already made the most important one which is to instruct us as their agent! I want to highlight some of the things they can do to facilitate and expedite a sale. Probably the most important is to present the property to its best advantage. You would be astonished how some people ignore what seems to be so obvious. We 12

There was a property not far from Bridgnorth where there were cats in cages in almost every room. The smell was obnoxious and we did not stay long! That was one instruction we were happy not to get. I think it is true that people who have dogs and cats become so used to the odour they cause that they don’t notice. It is advisable to ask a friend to do a sniff test before marketing. It needs to be a very close friend who will be willing to risk causing offence! I remember a bungalow we sold for an elderly couple where underwear was draped on the entrance hall radiators – and it wasn’t very glamorous underwear! Another property had a glass fronted corner display cupboard in the lounge with what appeared to be a tree branch inside. I asked if the cupboard was a fixture and was advised to take a closer look. Wound round the branch was a nasty looking boa constrictor. That was bad enough but I learned subsequently that he let it out for a walk every morning – or should that be a slither! We could tell of tenants in bed when viewings took place and of several houses which had an odd, cold feeling. Several of our staff can tell ghost stories but wild horses would not drag the addresses from me. A resident ghost is not something we record in sale particulars! Bill Hawthorne, who many of you will remember as a local estate agent, wrote a little book of houses he had sold where there were ghosts but was careful not to give their addresses.

sale recently where the owner said she had received dreadful service from another local agent when she was looking for a property and because our staff had been so helpful we were instructed to sell her house – which I am happy to say sold for the asking price in two weeks with three people interested. We must be doing something right as in October our offices agreed sales of just over £12 million and our Tettenhall office has averaged £7.25 million every month this year. The double spread in this edition, which shows photos of all our staff, demonstrates how much the business has grown and that is now a very significant player in the local property market. So what of the future. It’s crystal ball time! The market will have quietened over the holiday period and the outcome of B….t will have an effect on what then happens. I am at the disadvantage of writing this before the vote on the Prime Minister’s plan but you will know what happened when you read it. My guess is that the market may suffer a slow down because of a lack of confidence but that it will recover and not record the severe price falls predicted by the Governor of the Bank. Confidence has always been the life blood of the property market but historically it has almost always shown resilience. So let’s hope it will be a Happy New Year for all of us.

Our New Year resolution is to continue to give the very best level of professional service to all our clients. We were instructed in a wolverhampton west magazine

THE LAURELS, WHITEHOUSE LANE CODSALL WOOD A beautifully appointed modern residence which provides extensive accommodation of enormous character in an extremely popular location in a stunning, South Staffordshire setting. Unusually for a modern house of this nature the house stands within large grounds with a total plot of almost 0.4 acres. Reception hall, cloakroom, dining room, lounge, sitting room, an outstanding dining kitchen and laundry to the ground floor. The master suite has a dressing room and a shower room en-suite, the second suite has a bathroom en-suite, there are two further bedrooms and a house bathroom. Driveway, double garage and rear garden. (EPC: tbc).

OFFERS AROUND ÂŁ595,000 VIEWING: Please contact the Tettenhall Office.

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

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advertisement feature

START THE NEW YEAR

BY SAVING MONEY!

It has been said that the two certainties in life are death and taxes. Neither are something to look forward to, but with the advances we have seen in medical science over the years, the average age people die in the UK has risen from just under 72 to nearly 81 over the last fifty years. Immortality is still a long way off, so meanwhile the Life Insurance industry continues to provide valuable family protection. This costs money, but more on that later. Taxes are inevitable and when mentioned, they are usually accompanied with a deep sigh and a roll of the eyes, but when we find ways to reduce the amount 14

we pay through legitimate means, it tends to raise the spirits. It is as though we have got one over on the Inland Revenue. That is why I want to share something with you that will bring a smile to your face! Around 95% of the population overpay for their family protection and now you are probably wondering whether you are one of those. If you didn’t take out a relevant life assurance plan through your employer by way of a salary exchange, then the answer is probably, “Yes!” So, how does salary exchange work? Rather than paying for life assurance from your net income, you simply ask your employer to allow you to take a policy with the payment coming from your gross income. Savings are

therefore made on income tax and National Insurance contributions. If you want to express this in pounds and pence, the difference it makes to the monthly payments are as follows:For a basic rate tax payer to receive £100 per month net, you would need to gross £147.06. In addition to this your employer would pay NI of £20.29 giving a gross cost of 167.35. Your employer would receive corporate tax relief of £31.80 giving a net cost of £135.55. If however, you did a salary exchange, the same policy with the company paying and you exchanging £100 of your gross salary would cost them £81, a total saving of £54.55 or 40.24% of the cost. If you are a higher rate tax payer the savings are even higher and work out at wolverhampton west magazine

ÂŁ77.92 per month or 49.03% of the cost. This is a win-win scheme where both the employee and the employer benefit. Is there a smile on your face and you are now wanting to know what to do next? It is simple. Contact your financial adviser and give yourself a belated Christmas present of family protection at a fraction of the cost. Are you wondering whether you are still paying the full cost of life assurance when with a little thought and planning you can have the same level of cover at a heavily discounted rate?

Death and taxes are certainties, but the cost of planning for the loss of a family provider doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to cost as much as you think.

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

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

A home makeover for the

New Year

The New Year is the perfect time to embrace a brand new look, whether it’s treating yourself to a new wardrobe, a different hairstyle or even a home makeover.

When the Christmas decorations are packed away your living space can certainly seem a little drab, so there has never been a better time to seek out some style inspiration, call in the decorators and update your home for 2019. To help you find the perfect new look here’s our guide to 2019’s hottest home interior trends: Fabulous florals Love them or hate them, floral prints are a big trend for 2019. You’ll find flowery patterns and prints adorning wallpapers, soft furnishings and everything in between. Whether you like old fashioned chintz or a more modern take on florals you’re sure to find something you’ll love.

Marvellous metals Metallic accents are a perfect way to update your home interior. Whether you opt for gold, bronze or silver tones, mixing metals creates a really stylish look. A block of colour We’ve been used to seeing focal ‘feature’ walls for many years now, but 2019’s trends are moving away from the popular patterned and papered wall and are being replaced instead with a plain painted wall in a striking hue. A new colour palette Rich jewel tones are set to be a popular choice this year. Emerald greens and dark rich teals offer a new alternative to the grey shades that have been popular in recent years. Back to basics Simple pieces, made from planet-friendly materials like jute,

rice paper and clay are an increasingly popular choice that bring environmentallyfriendly style to your home. Beautifully Boho An eclectic mix of modern and vintage patterns and prints will bring on-trend Boho style to your home this year. Layer fabrics, opt for bright colours and don’t be afraid to introduce plenty of pattern. Spa style If you’re looking to update your bathroom this year then take style inspiration from your favourite spa. Channel high-end style and opt for a luxurious and sultry look that’ll be perfect for setting the mood for relaxation. With so many gorgeous trends to choose from, there’s no doubt that your home will look amazing this year. wolverhampton west magazine

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C a r v e r s Celebrate 25 Years’ Service…

L-R: Lee Simmons, Ian Keeling, Steve Moore, Henry Carver, Bob Lloyd, Bryan Purslow.

Carvers staff are celebrating in volumes, after seven members of the workforce have reached their 25th year with the company. Things were a little bit different back in 1993, when Carvers’ turnover was at £7 million and the main building at Littles Lane was a disused railway goods warehouse with a leaky roof! Fast forward 25 years and the Company is boasting a £35 million turnover and operating from a brand new facility at the Littles Lane site, with a timber production site just a few miles down the road and a gas bottling and distribution depot at Four Ashes. 18

It takes a special kind of person to show true commitment, particularly when it’s shown to an organisation and Carvers is lucky enough to have seven such people celebrating their 25th year working for the Company. Steve Rhodes, Yard Supervisor Lee Simmons, Transport Scheduler Bob Lloyd, Cooker Centre Sales Representative Ian Keeling, Treatment Plant Manager Along with these four members of staff, three Directors have also clocked up 25 years’ service: Bryan Purslow, Operations Director Richard Boult, Purchasing Director

Steve Moore, Timber Director Both Steve and Richard joined the company as YTS members of staff and actually achieved 25 years with the company back in 2012, when the main offices, warehousing and stock suffered a devastating fire and then a subsequent rebuild, therefore celebrations were put on a back burner. Carvers is incredibly fortunate, as over half of its employees have achieved their ten year service with the Company, which prides itself on being a major local employer with much of its workforce living within a three mile radius. The staff celebrated their achievement, along with their work colleagues at a lunch time presentation on Thursday 18th October made by Henry Carver. wolverhampton west magazine

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Sofa Factory Outlet

At The Sofa Factory Outlet in Thomas Street, Wolverhampton, you’ll find the best value, high quality, beautiful and comfy sofas combined with the best customer service in the industry. They now stock a fantastic range of leather sofas from Italy. This compliments their existing handmade sofa’s that are manufactured locally in the Black Country by skilled craftsmen and guaranteed for up to 10 years. The combination of both ranges will ensure that you will be able to choose a sofa that’s perfect for you. In addition, their “Price Promise” is your assurance that wherever you go, you won’t beat The Sofa Factory Outlet on price.

The team at the Sofa Factory Outlet understand how difficult the process of choosing a new sofa can be, so they go out of their way to provide you with all the help you’ll need to make sure you get exactly what you want. Their 20 years of experience in helping people to make the right choice combined with their unrivalled customer service, means you’ll be glad you chose them. Don’t be deceived by

external appearances - the factory outlet shop in Thomas Street is a veritable Aladdin’s Cave of sofas with a huge range of styles, sizes and fabrics to choose from - and if one of them is ‘nearly’ right for you, their ‘made to measure’ service means they can alter the size, proportions and cushion filling until it is just perfect for your needs. The business has also supplied BBC’s hit show DIY SOS a number of times, featured in a children in need special and exhibited at the recent Grand Designs Live show at the N.E.C. Birmingham. They have worked with designers such as Laurence Llewelyn Bowen and Gabrielle Blackman, making bespoke sofas.

Here’s 10 good reasons why to choose The Sofa Factory... 1. Exceptionally well made, stylish comfy sofas 2. Great value - a fraction of the price of similar high street sofas 3. Bespoke sofas, handmade for individual customers 4. Beautiful, natural fabrics selected from the top mills to keep costs down 5. Over 2000 fabrics to choose from at no extra cost 6. 10 year frame construction guarantee 7. All sofas are ‘made to measure’ and ‘made to last’ 8. A second to none delivery service 9. Price Promise - they won’t be beaten on price 10. Hand made in the Black Country by skilled craftsmen

... And of course, because they care and they love their customers!

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As seen on...

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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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Crossword Across 8 Angry, enraged (5) 9 Surface, layer of earth (7) 10 Hangman (7) 11 Dissertation, article (5) 12 Piece of office equipment (11) 14 Founded, set up (11) 20 Mean, horrible (5) 22 Used to dismiss a football player (3,4) 23 Contaminate, taint (7) 24 Large string instrument (5)

Puzzle answers on

160

Down 1 Snug (5) 2 Flings, pitches (8) 3 Protective hat (6) 4 Traditional, tribal (6) 5 Maintenance (6) 6 Flowerless green plant (4) 7 Andrew _____ Webber, the composer (5) 13 Peepers! (8) 15 Sanctuary, refuge (6) 16 Pantry, food-cupboard (6) 17 Entice, beguile (6) 18 Clumsy, incompetent (5) 19 Optical disc for storing computer data (abbr) (2-3) 21 Huff, brood (4)

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Carver Wolverhampton

Marathon Events Cheque Presentation

On Monday 10th December the organisers of the 21st Carver Wolverhampton Marathon events joined together with the Mayor, Mayoress, sponsors and charity recipients for the finale of the events, the presentation of cheques to the chosen charities. £11,500 was shared between Compton Care, Give us a Break Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton and Bilston Athletics Club and The Mayoral charity Fund. Chair Mary Harding reflected; “It seems an age away when on September 2nd over 1500 people took to the streets of Wolverhampton, running and cycling in their chosen event and all helping to raise money for charity.”

107. We always feel that this event helps to strengthen community spirit within the city of Wolverhampton. The marathon events are all about encouraging activity for all ages and abilities and it was encouraging to see so many setting off in their different events. The organisers have listened to feedback and made some improvements to the cycle route, making it safer for the cyclists. The Half Marathon and 10K are popular distances and it has been decided to reintroduce the Half Marathon Relay back into the events. This will be teams of four people covering the half marathon route. It is hoped this will attract entrants from sports clubs and businesses in the city.

This was another opportunity to thank all the sponsors and supporters, especially Carvers Building Supplies who as always give their full backing, not only financially, but also with staff volunteering their help on the event weekend. Banks’s who sponsor the Banks’s 10K: Cousins Furniture who sponsor the Cousins 20K cycle event: NJB Sports & Physio for their continued sponsorship and their assistance with any injury arising from taking part. Paycare joined the list of sponsors this year, as did the Grand Theatre who donated sets of family tickets to the pantomime. The atmosphere at the start and in the Park was enhanced by Dicky Dodd and his team from Signal Online entries will open at 2018 prices on January 1st 2019. The 2019 date has been set for SUNDAY 1st September.

www.carverwolverhamptonhalfmarathonevents.co.uk 26

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With nearly 50 years of home furnishings expertise, Merridale Furnishers has built an excellent reputation for providing a beautiful range of solid oak furniture for all styles and needs. After the success of our oak furniture, we introduced a bespoke range of made to measure blinds and curtains to give your home decor the ultimate modern look. Our store is located just outside of Wolverhampton city centre and our interior experts are on hand to help with all your interior needs. From the elegant painted range, light oak and modern Roma range to the chunky and practical Temi range, Merridale Furnishers is able to offer an affordable luxury to complement your style and requirements. Whether you are looking to downsize or you are simply looking to transition from dark oak furniture, we have a number of quality pieces that will create a statement in your home.

of sophistication to your bedroom with our stunning painted beds, available in a number of sizes. Alternatively, create a traditionalist rustic country feel with our beautifully distressed bookshelves and chest of drawers, to maximise your storage space. Customers are sure to find what they are after with our wide selection of stock, which is designed to complement every style. Dine in style with our chunky extendable dining tables and create memories with your family and friends during special occasions. Our tables come in various sizes to seat all of your loved ones. We understand that during occasions, it can become hectic around your dining space therefore, we have a number of dressers to match your tables to conveniently store all

We pride ourselves in the choice that we offer to customers, which does not stop at furniture. Our luxurious made to measure blinds and curtains include hundreds of fabrics which boast elegant designs from floral to geometric patterns and also beautifully textured styles. With our blinds and curtains, we ensure an affordable luxury with free measuring and fitting as well as a fast delivery period of 7-14 days! Our professional fitter will ensure your blinds and curtains are fitted to a perfect standard, in no time. At Merridale Furnishers, we provide only the highest quality products, accompanied by professional advice from our interior experts on how to furnish your home, according to your style. Our friendly delivery and assembling team are also on hand to ensure that your order is placed beautifully within your home, at a time that suits you. Whether you are moving home and are in need of quality furniture or would like to refresh the look of your existing home, we have you covered.

For those who dream of the perfect bedroom, Merridale Furnishers endeavour to make your dreams a reality with our stunning solid oak beds, wardrobes, dressing tables and chest of drawers. Add a touch 28

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The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton

Rotary International – a pragmatic organisation in a challenging world require constant regeneration with new members bringing new thoughts and aspirations to future strategies. That requires the inspiration gained from people of all ages, experience and backgrounds. In understanding this, the Rotary Club of Wolverhampton has identified the need to offer categories of membership specific to the individual. This will enable committed people with busy lives to enjoy the personal rewards of membership, such as friendship and the sheer pleasure of working together for a common purpose, while having some fun along the way! In the New Year the Wolverhampton club will be launching Let’s Talk Rotary and You. This will aim to offer the opportunity of a varied membership experience to men and women over the age of 18, suited to their time in life and without imposing demands for which they would not have the time. Wulfrunians put their Best Foot Forward at Aldersley to help Rotary raise over £19,000 for city-based charities

The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton was chartered nearly 100 years ago when the borough was at the industrial heart of the “biggest workshop in the world”.

each club having its own identity, but sharing common values.

Today, in a very different commercial and economic environment, there are many Rotary clubs open for membership in the West Midlands,

But there is no stereotypical Rotarian and there can be no “one size fits all” Rotary membership in the 21st century. All organisations

All clubs raise considerable amounts of money, in addition to service projects, using members’ time wisely to make a difference at home and abroad. In the year to last June the Wolverhampton club alone raised £59,500 to meet a range of needs.

Membership is open to young people interested in youth services at home and overseas and to those in employment or considering retirement. For the recently retired, Rotary membership can be a new and enjoyable experience for them and their family, for whom there could be the opportunity of secondary membership. We are here to listen so 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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we’ve Got NewS for You

New, high-quality, lighting pieces join the Lighting R Us family The new autumn 2018/winter 2019 collection from där has made its mark at lighting r us. The new range is composed of bang-on-trend colours and dazzling finishes. You will not be able to choose which pieces you love the most. So, if you’re looking to redecorate for the New Year, now is the perfect time. New lIghTINg pIeCes The new season collection brings some statement fittings like no other. The Jocelyn and Halle pendants are firm favourites amongst our lighting experts, with

their faceted crystals that add dramatic radiance to any room. However, the Tygo pendants are the star of the show. Handmade in India and coming in 3 different colours, they make a lovely unit in any room. With a price tag of £39 too, what’s not to love? Come and see the pieces mentioned, in their full effect, on display in our Aldersley showroom. Or alternatively, shop online at

www.lightingrus.co.uk sales@lightingrus.oc.uk 01902 757825 Terms & conditions for 10% discount offer: 10% off all lighting ranges across the Lighting R Us website, or in store. To redeem in store, simply show the advert at the till. To redeem online, use the code Nw10 at the checkout. Minimum spend of £100. Offer expires 28th February. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Not valid on bulbs, shades, homeware & sale items.

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Steve Bull, while playing for England, drops to his knees to celebrate scoring a goal during a Rous Cup match against Scotland at Hampden Park, 1989

Wolverhampton’s adopted son

- he’s just incredi-Bull Wolverhampton has always welcomed outsiders and none in recent memory has made a bigger impact than Steve Bull. His association with the city began 33 years ago and his affection for Wolverhampton is matched only by the affection of Wulfrunians for him. Confirmation of that – not that it was ever in doubt – came in September last year when “Bully” was given the Freedom of the City, an honour granted to only a few. Born in Tipton, Steve joined Wolverhampton Wanderers from their old rival West Bromwich Albion in November, 1986, and there the special relationship began even though he must have wondered what he was coming to. 36

He and Andy Thompson joined Wolves when the team were languishing in the Fourth Division and about to suffer a humiliating FA Cup defeat at the hands of non-League Chorley. If that were not bad enough, they found at Molineux a ground in decay with two sides of it closed for safety reasons and dressing rooms which provided accommodation for both players and the occasional rat.

in 1987-8 and 50 in 1988-9. That scoring feat ensured Steve has a place in the history of English football. He is the only player ever to score a half century of goals two seasons running. The year of 1989 was a special one for Steve. As well as helping his team to a second successive

All that would change as Bull’s 13year career lifted the morale of not only the club but the whole town. Steve did not exactly set the house on fire in his first few weeks at Molineux, scoring only five goals in his first 15 appearances but a final flourish that season of six goals in the last three league games was a stunning indication of what was to come. As Wolves became champions of the Fourth Division and Third Division in Steve’s first two full seasons at Molineux he just could not stop scoring. He hit 52 goals

Steve Bull features prominently on the cover of Golden Balls

wolverhampton west magazine

out how many of the club’s players from various parts of the country opted to stay in or around Wolverhampton once they retired and he believed it said much about the town and its inhabitants.

Steve, Kirsty and daughter Gracie Jo at the Freedom of the City ceremony

promotion he became only the fifth player from the third tier of English football to win a full cap for England. Not only did he come on as sub against Scotland at Hampden Park, he scored in a 2-0 win. That was the first of 13 appearances for his country, including playing in the 1990 World Cup finals in Italy. By the time he retired, Steve had become Wolves’ all-time top goal scorer with a total of 306, including 18 hat-tricks, a club record. The late great Wolves winger Dave Wagstaffe was fond of pointing

Steve may not have moved too far away from the place where he was brought up but he still fell into the pattern highlighted by “Waggy”. He became an adopted Wulfrunian and has put back much into the town, which in 2000 was given city status. That same year, Steve had been made an MBE in the New Year Honours for services to association football. Other awards have since provided testament to the impact he has had on Wolverhampton. Sir Jack Hayward’s ownership of Wolves meant the rundown Molineux which Steve had found in 1986 was transformed into a gleaming gold all-seat stadium and the great man was adamant that Steve’s contribution to the club’s history should have a permanent honour. Not only did Sir Jack make him a vice president of the club, in 2003 he had the John Ireland Stand renamed the “Steve Bull Stand”. Still the recognition came and when Wolves decided to have a Hall of Fame as part of their new museum, Steve was one of the

Molineux arrival . . . Steve Bull and Andy Thompson after they had signed for Wolves in 1986

first six inductees along with such towering Wolves legends as Stan Cullis and Billy Wright. Even now few Wolves’ home games go by without a rendering from the South Bank fans of their favourite “Bully” song “Stevie Bull’s a tatter”. That’s speaks volumes. Steve and his wife Kirsty still live in the city and their daughter Gracie Jo is at a Wolverhampton school. As part of his charity work Steve set up the Steve Bull Foundation, ensuring he continues to give something back to the community that embraced him. Without a doubt, Wolverhampton has been good for Steve and Steve has been good for Wolverhampton.

Steve Bull with the ball from one of his 18 hattrick games – against Leicester City in April, 1990

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Midland Independent Financial Services Honoured for Best Practice It’s hard to know where to turn when you’re looking for a business to trust.

An advert on an unsolicited flyer is a risk. The internet brings with it its own risks. For many of us, only a recommendation from a close friend or family member is acceptable, but even then who knows? A safer bet is opting to look for a review in a respected publication, such as The Parliamentary Review especially when it comes to looking after your hard-earned cash. So you’ll be pleased to learn that Cannock-based pensions and investment specialist Midland Independent Financial Services has just featured in the esteemed publication, which provides sector specific insight from journalists, Secretaries of State, Ministers and MPs in an indispensable guide to industry best practice. Managing Director John Webb started the business in 1994 - it operated originally alongside mortgage business Midland IFA before merging with it in 2008 - and it is today held as a shining example of its kind; it features in The Parliamentary Review to help raise standards across the industry. Now this is just the kind of endorsement you need when choosing a pension and investment expert. “We often say that you should always treat others as you wish to be treated yourself. Everything focuses on our clients at Midland Independent - with no exception,” says John, as he lays out processes and practices that have been key to his success. “Our philosophy has always been to put ourselves, with our knowledge, in our clients’ shoes and think about what we would do. For a 38

John Webb, founder and Managing Director lot of them I personally see myself as something of a life coach. “A lot of clients come to me asking about, for instance, a new job they’ve been offered. It’s not all about the money. Many clients, who have spent their lives accumulating wealth, find it difficult to spend; when they retire, we can help them to ‘break the mould’ and enjoy life.” For a man whose business is in being analytical and meticulous, someone who can explain why final salary transfers are the same as defined benefit pensions, he is refreshingly philosophical on life. Never in it for a fast buck, John recalls a recent case in point: “A client I was recently introduced to came to me asking about rearranging her finances as, following a divorce, she suffered serious financial difficulties. I spent some time advising her on how to plan for the future. We did not charge her for this advice; I know that, in the future, when she is in a position to pay for our services, she will. Without our clients, we have no business, so it makes sense that everything we do is for their betterment.”

Another example of this ‘client-first’ approach is John’s aversion to a coming future where contingency charging, which in effect means that if no business is transacted with a client there’s no charge, is banned and shows again in his attitude towards the fear mongers who prey upon individuals reeling from newly relaxed pension laws. His unwillingness to relent to the tactics of others and force Midland Independent Financial services down the throats of its clients has allowed the business to grow “organically” at its own rate - all the way to employing an impressive 11 people and last year recording a turnover of £1.24 million. No wonder The Parliamentary Review took notice; after all it is sent to over 500,000 leading business executives and policy makers and in recent years has featured forewords by Theresa May, David Cameron and many other leading political figures. It’s about time you too took notice because there’s really nowhere better than Midland Independent Financial when it comes to financial planning and wealth management. wolverhampton west magazine

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RECIPE T r ay - b a k e d

Chicken with Root Vegetables

Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 1 Hr

• 2 tbsp olive oil • olive oil

Serves: 4

• ½ tsp cumin seeds

Ingredients

• a few sprigs of sage

• 1 small celeriac, peeled and cut into 2½ cm/1in chunks

• 8 chicken thighs or drumsticks (skin on)

• 1 small swede, peeled and cut into 2½ cm/1in chunks

Method

• 2 large sweet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 2½ cm/1in chunks • 2 medium parsnips, scrubbed and quartered lengthways 40

• 2 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced

1. Preheat the oven to 200C / gas 6 / fan 180C. Put the chunks of celeriac, swede, sweet potato, parsnips and garlic in a large roasting tin. Sprinkle liberally with the olive oil and cumin, and season well

with salt and pepper. Toss the vegetables together so they are lightly coated in oil. Put in the oven towards the top and roast for 30 minutes. 2. Meanwhile, lightly oil then season the chicken skins, and lay a couple of sage leaves over each thigh or drumstick. 3. Remove the roasting pan from the oven and turn the vegetables over. Lay the chicken pieces on top. Roast for 30- 35 minutes more, until the vegetables are tender, and the chicken skin is nice and crispy. Serve with creamy mash and lightly cooked Savoy cabbage. wolverhampton west magazine

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Friends of Bantock House

Museum and Park

Registered Charity 1065808

and a group of walk leaders. Staffed entirely by volunteers the scheme organises and oversees group walks throughout England. Here at Bantock there are walks on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 10.30 and Saturday afternoons at 2.30. If you would like to become a member of the Friends and support us in our aims of enhancing the experience of all visitors to Bantock, annual membership is £10 (individual) and £15 for a household. Email: bantockfriends@virginmedia.com or telephone 01902 331272 for more information. Subscriptions are a vital source of income along with other fundraising activities including our very popular valuation days. See below for this year’s dates:

A newly purchased map and nature information board has been unveiled at Bantock Park by the park and museum’s dedicated Friends. Situated at the entrance to the car park and replacing the previous out of date and weatherworn one, it will hopefully encourage visitors to explore further what the park has to offer. Pictured admiring it are Angela Wallace Coordinator of Wolverhampton Walking for Health

In conjunction with Fielding Auctioneers

Valuation Days 2019 14th February, 23rd May, 19th September and 21st November, 11am – 2pm. Held in the Courtyard outbuilding £1 per item-proceeds to the Friends. Free for Members For information on other Walking for Health walks in the area - Email: angelawallace151@gmail.com or telephone 07913 800712

Andrew Tyson PIANO RECITAL CODSALL COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL, 7.30PM WEDNESDAY 6TH MARCH 2019 Music lovers will be thrilled to hear that Codsall Community Arts Festival has managed to lure pianist Andrew Tyson to Codsall for a recital next March. You might like to put the date into your diaries now! BBC Radio 3 has hailed Andrew as “a real poet of the piano” acknowledging him as a distinctive and important new musical influence. Andrew is a laureate of the Leeds International Piano Competition where he won the new Terence Judd-Hallé Orchestra Prize, awarded by the orchestra and conductor Sir Mark Elder. With concerto performances taking him across North America and Europe, Andrew has performed with orchestras from the North Carolina Symphony and the Orchestra of St. Luke’s at Alice Tully Hall, to the SWR Symphony Orchestra Stuttgart, Musikkollegium 44

Winterthur and the National Orchestra of Belgium under Marin Alsop. Andrew will be playing: • SCARLATTI: 3 SONATAS Kk9, Kk322, Kk20 • GRANADOS: VALSES POETICOS • ALBENIZ: SEVILLE, EVOCACIÓN, FÊTE-DIEU À SEVILLE, TRIANA • MOMPOU: PAISAJES, LA FUENTE Y LA CAMPANA, EL LAGO, CARROS DE GALICIA • CHOPIN: SONATA NO.3 IN B MINOR Op.58

Andrew has agreed to a pre-recital interview with the Birmingham Post’s Christopher Morley at 6.15pm, to which ticket holders are invited. He will also be signing copies of his CDs after the recital. Tickets will cost £15 for adults and £8 for students. Details of how to buy tickets will follow shortly. www.codsallartsfestival.org.uk E: codsallartsfestival@gmail.com t: 07852 200421 Registered Charity 1127064

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What’s it like doing dentistry in arguably the

most dangerous place on earth? chairs, head torches, and only the dental instruments we brought in our suitcases. Nevertheless over the course of our time there we saw nearly 500 patients and unfortunately due to a lack of healthcare there, we had to extract 560 teeth. Neel’s favourite part was being stung by a hornet from the nest above us in his jawline, while taking out an elderly gentleman’s wisdom tooth.

Brave girl has just had her tooth out

By Dr Victoria Barchha and Dr Neel Barchha How we ended up in Honduras I still don’t know, I remember some conversation that Neel was having with one of his professors over a bottle of wine about an aid mission with the HIS (International Hospital Service) but how we actually ended up on the banks of the Kruta river, with an armed military escort I still have no idea. Reading the foreign office guide to Honduras was a real delight. There are high levels of crime. Attacks on foreigners including armed robbery and sexual assault. These attacks can take place anywhere and at any time of the day. People have been killed and injured resisting attack. It is useful to carry a small amount of money to hand out in the event of a robbery”… sounds great. The Kruta River bank on the mosquito coast (you can imagine my delight reading that name) is a 5 hour bus ride from San Pedro Sula to La Cieba, a prop plane flight that takes off from a football pitch 46

over a rainforest and then over a 7 hour boat ride. The people are some of the most forgotten about in the world. Virtually no aid reaches them and their income comes from small amounts of trade and the drug runners along the river, who we had the pleasure of running into (hence the military escort.) We knew conditions were going to be basic put nothing quite prepares you for the 40 degrees of heat and near 100% humidity which assaults you when working in the area. No electricity or running water and the toilet facilities were very basic to say the least (If I ever see another cockroach it’ll be too soon!). Our dental facilities weren’t quite up to the standard we’re used to at The Willows! We had 2 deck

We were the only dentists for 200 miles during our time there. Even if the people could manage to row down the river to the nearest town the Musquitia people live off the land and have virtually no money to pay for treatment. However they never complained and we were met by many smiling faces. They also know how to queue, we would wake at 5.30am and within an hour there would be 100 or more people quietly waiting outside our makeshift dental surgery/school room. Although incredibly tough we loved the experience and have many treasured memories of this most beautiful but harsh land and its people.

Morning queue of patients

Meeting the local children

wolverhampton west magazine

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Grand Theatre COMPETITION From 18 – 23 March, samantha womack stars as rachel in a stage adaptation of The girl on The Train at wolverhampton grand Theatre. We have a pair of tickets to give away on opening night on Monday 18th March 2019. Rachel Watson longs for a different life. Her only escape is the perfect couple she watches through the train window every day, happy and in love. Or so it appears. When Rachel learns that the woman she’s been secretly watching has suddenly disappeared, she finds herself as a witness and even a suspect in a thrilling mystery in which she will face bigger revelations than she could ever have anticipated. Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ novel – an international phenomenon selling over twenty million copies worldwide – and starring Samantha Womack and Oliver Farnworth, this gripping new play will keep you guessing until the final moment.

Samantha Womack has starred extensively in television, film and theatre. She is best known for playing Ronnie Mitchell in BBC1’s EastEnders with leading roles in Mount Pleasant and Game On, plus the recent box office hit films, The Kingsman series. As well as his extensive career on the stage, Oliver Farnworth has starred in Hollyoaks and as Andy Carver in ITV’s Coronation Street.

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 15th February 2019.

which Tv soap did samantha womack play ronnie Mitchell in? A. Coronation Street B. Hollyoaks C. Emmerdale D. EastEnders 48

Competition Terms and Conditions Entries to be received no later than Friday 15th February 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.

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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 Berriman Eaton Team

Richard Eaton MNAEA Associate

Melanie Sellman MNAEA Associate

Nick Berriman LLB FNAEA MARLA Director

David Berriman left Walker, Barnett & Hill in 1990 and established his own office in Albrighton with one assistant and with twelve properties to sell. These pages show how far that original business has grown to become, arguably, the major player in the property market in this area.

hard work that the business has grown and prospered over the twenty eight years it has existed. This is an appropriate moment to pay tribute to all of them and thank them for their individual contributions. Not everyone can be in the limelight but every cog in the wheel contributes to the end product.

This feature has photographs of everyone now involved and it is thanks to their loyalty, professional ability and

The business moved to Tettehall in 1995. David became a Consultant in 2005 and his younger son, Nick, who joined him in 1998 after completing a Law Degree and some years training in London, then took over the business. Caroline Eaton had joined David at Walker, Barnett & Hill as a trainee when she was 17 and had made such an instant impression that she was made manager of their Perton Office two years later - thought at the time to be the youngest estate agecny office manager in the country.

Katie Berriman MNAEA Sales Negotiator

Beth Blackwell BA ANAEA Sales Negotiator

Linda Davis LLB MNAEA Sales Progression Manager

Ellie Eaton ANAEA Sales Negotiator

Sarah Edwards MNAEA Sales Negotiator

Dianne Hennessy ANAEA Administrator

Oliver Jones BA Lettings Negotiator

Emily Lewis Sales Negotiator

After W, B & H sold to General Accident in 1987 she stayed on for

Jane McGuire ANAEA Administrator

wolverhampton west magazine

Caroline Eaton MNAEA MARLA Director some years and then founded Eaton Estates in 1994. In 2006 the two firms amalgamated to create Berriman Eaton. The amalgamation worked well, which is not always the case, and the firm has grown over the years with offices in Tettenhall, Bridgnorth and Wombourne, now selling properties of all types and price ranges. In addition the Rental Department has seen rapid growth with over three hundred properties in management and an average of twenty five being let each month. Associate Director, Andy Roberts is in charge with three staff and this is now an important part of the business. Qualifications are important and we have two law degrees, one chartered surveyor, nineteen with National Association of Estate Agents qualifications and four with the Association of Residential Letting Agents qualifications. Thirteen of those pictured here have

Carol Pilsbury Sales Negotiator

David Berriman FRICS Consultant

Bruce Attwood BA MNAEA Associate

There is the essential blend of knowledge and experience from the older members and energy and enthusiasm from the younger ones which gives every confidence for the future which looks to be in good hands.

Vicky Blakemore MNAEA MARLA Sales Negotiator

Jacob Craner BSc Property Manager

Lynn Glover MNAEA Sales Negotiator

Patricia Gooding ANAEA Sales Manager

Sophie Guest Lettings Negotiator

Sarah Roberts ANAEA Sales Negotiator

Katie Rumble Sales Negotiator

Caroline Snape ANAEA Sales Manager

Andy Roberts MNAEA MARLA Associate Director completed over ten years service and although the business has grown so much the roots of the two original family businesses are still there with three ‘Berrimans’ and three ‘Eatons’ still included.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

THE GARDEN IN wiNTer At this time of year the garden is a quiet, uneventful place.

Most of the outside work involves keeping the ground tidy and weed free, being sure that small plants and cuttings are firm in their beds, and keeping a weathereye open for first signs of trouble on the fruit trees. Bear in mind at this time of year the worst of the weather is probably still to come, so make provision accordingly. Have plenty of material handy to protect against inevitable frosts - bales of straw, bundles of newspaper, piles of dead leaves, if all else fails. Don’t overlook sawdust if you can get it in any quantity. Keep a pile of old bricks by you too, to help build wind-breaks. Tomato seed can go into trays as soon as you like, so can cauliflowers and cos lettuce. A few potatoes can be forced from now onwards, a real treat for Easter. Early dwarf peas can go into individual pots in the greenhouse. Use 9 inch ones and keep them warmish in the early stages. Lettuce and mustard and cress if planted in the greenhouse now, will soon be ready for pricking out, although mustard and cress will do happily wherever they are. If you are raising these salad subjects in hot beds or cold frames, be sure to cover them every night just in case of frost. Radishes can go in, outside in a warm and sheltered border, so can peas. Just take

precautions against wind and frost damage to the seedlings when they start to appear. Cucumbers can be planted in pots if you would like to bring on some early ones. Be very careful you don’t overwater them though. One thing you must remember to do when you are bringing on early leafy subjects under glass is to remove every single leaf that appears withered or discoloured. Decay sets in so easily at this time of year and the rot spreads like wildfire if you let it February was known as ‘Filldyke’ by our ancestors. It is however one of the least wet months of winter. What it does suffer from however are a succession of dry, chilling east winds blowing from the cold wastes of Scandinavia, bringing heavy frosts and snow. It also has a nasty habit towards its end, of lulling you into a false sense of security with bright, sunny, springlike days that are almost warm, and then following them up with cripplingly deep frosts that can kill even some of the hardiest plants, stone dead. You can really set your vegetable plot into action. You can make a sowing of broad beans in a sheltered spot in the open. You can make the first sowing of sprouts under glass. Globe varieties of beet should go into a hot bed, and cabbage will be ready for use this summer if it is started off in a box in a cold frame. Sow cauliflower on a hot bed for summer use, get your onions in for early supplies, and plant tomato seed in heat for an early crop.

• Lawncare • Regular maintenance • Weeding

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If the weather isn’t too bad you could advantageously plant a row or two of peas in a sheltered border, though if the weather is bad it might be better to wait until March. The same goes for spinach. Now is the time to put seed potatoes to sprout in boxes. If you have planted new fruit bushes or trees, you must persuade yourself not to let them fruit in this first year. It’s hard to do but rewarding ultimately. Now therefore, is the time to take appropriate action by pruning. Cut gooseberries, black, red and white currant bushes especially hard, and cut back raspberries to around six inches from ground level. wolverhampton west magazine

We have been specialising in commercial / non-commercial hardscaping and building works since 2002. From extensions / loft conversions / design and build projects to driveways and patios we ensure our customers benefit from the highest level of service covering all aspects from construction to materials. Quality Assured As PEJ are one of the West Midlands most accredited contractors you can be confident all works are carried out to the highest standard at all times, we even offer an unprecedented 10-year guarantee on all driveways and patios. 3

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12/12/2018 15:26

A New Year,

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

A New Season

Seed potatoes usually arrive at the start of the New Year, weather permitting. Once you get them home, put them to chit (allow shoots to form), egg trays are ideal for this, place them in a light, cool and frost free environment. You can start seed potatoes growing in pots inside as early as you like, so long as they are protected from any frosts we may have.

If you haven’t used winter wash on your fruit trees yet, do so on a mild day before the buds start to burst, this will clear up any pests and their

eggs left overwintering on your trees. Make sure you have a grease band wrapped round tree stems; this can be kept on all year round. If the weather is fine and frost free, get out into the garden to finish any clearing up jobs that weren’t done at the end of 2018, especially tidying up leaves and debris. This will help to prevent disease from spreading and removes hiding places for slugs and snails. If the snow and hard frosts do arrive like last year make sure vulnerable plants – Hebe, Phormium, Cordyline, Palms and Tree Ferns are covered with fleece. If you want to start something off early in the greenhouse try sowing some sweet pea seeds in a cool environment. Use a seed compost and sow them into peat pots 2

to 3 seeds per pot. When they’re ready for planting out the roots will have grown through the pot and it’s then very easy to just pop the plant into the ground or a container. Plug plants will be available around the beginning of March, but they will need heat to start with. Grow them in the house to get a head start, but remember you need to take note of the weather conditions and not be in a rush to put tender plants out before May time. Don’t forget our feathered friends, especially if the weather is poor – we’ve always got peanuts, seed, mealworms, fat balls and feeders in stock. Clean off bird tables regularly and remember to put out fresh water daily.

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We have a large range of primroses, pansies etc ready to plant out in containers and pots weather permitting.

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TA k e S T o c k OF YOUR g A r d e N THIS w i N T e r board of ideas and concepts that you like and dislike.

By Andi Way, Garden Designer at Boningale Garden Creations

With winter upon us, now is the ideal time to take stock of your garden; utilise these few calm months to reassess your outdoor space and figure out the changes you would like to see come springtime. Here are my top tips to ensure you are ready for a new gardening season:

• Assess whether your garden has a good flow. Do you have clearly defined areas in your garden or could it benefit from some additional work? Could using different materials enhance the look of your garden and give it a focal point? There are so many options now available, from slate, block paving and brick to concrete and gravel – not forgetting natural materials like hedging and trees.

• If you are thinking of a change, such as a new landscaping scheme, now is the time to start researching what type of garden design you would like: identify your preferred style and what you would like to achieve. Search the internet, browse through magazines and create a mood

• Consider your hardscape, too – the benches, tables, gazebos, stepping stones, and pergolas. What impact could be made if you changed them around? You might find a switch around enhances the space or gives it an entirely new perspective.

• With so many choices, garden design can be overwhelming. My top tip would be to make contact with a good garden designer. Starting your planning now, agreeing a design and budget, and booking the work in advance will all help to ensure your garden is ready for you to enjoy in summer. With some careful planning this winter, you can transform your garden into a space you can enjoy every season.

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.

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After a busy autumn leading up to Christmas, all of the team have enjoyed a well-deserved break over the festive period. We now begin looking ahead to a busy spring with lots of exciting

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A brand new chapter for

The Robin 2

Iconic Bilston-based music venue, The Robin 2 has a new owner, local businessman Fraser Tranter and he’s looking forward to beginning a brand new chapter at the venue.

As Fraser explains: “I’ve had businesses in the area for many years – which have created jobs for hundreds of local people - and I’ve built a large security company that’s based in the Midlands. The area is really important to me and I’m delighted to have been able to take on such a legendary music venue.”

And, Mike is delighted that Fraser has bought the business, especially as he has no plans to change the running of the much-loved venue.

“Since the club changed hands we’ve refurbished the entrance, The Rhythm Restaurant that was on the first floor has re-opened as a new American diners-style restaurant on the second floor. We’ve got other cosmetic changes planned for the future but we won’t be changing what makes the venue great: the unbeatable atmosphere and the music.” In fact, Mike is staying on to ensure the smooth running of The Robin 2.

Over the years The Robin 2 has hosted all sorts of famous people, including Robert Plant, Steven Segal and Noddy Holder, and has attracted visitors from all over the country.

Keen to capture and share his time at the helm of the club dubbed ‘The Marquee of the Midlands’, Mike has written a book detailing the remarkable 26 years he spent at The Robin 2.

“It’s a fantastic venue and I’m really proud to take over the legacy that former owner Mike Hamblett has left.”

“Mike’s book, Keepin’ Music Live, is a great read and we had a brilliant time celebrating its launch on Saturday 24th November, when

Mike Hamblett, Fraser Tranter, Jim Lea

Mike took part in a special book signing at the club,” adds Fraser. With Fraser’s enthusiasm, Mike’s experience and plenty of support from the locals, there’s no doubt that The Robin 2 will remain a must-visit music venue for many years to come.

Berrington Lodge Nursery - Grand Opening Celebrity hairdresser Royston Blythe was invited to officially open the nursery based on the Tettenhall Road.

Parents were invited to come along with their children for a free ‘stay and play’ session full of fun filled activities with complimentary cakes and refreshments. If you’re looking to find a nursery that can provide your child with an inclusive, safe and supportive environment, then look no further than Berrington Lodge Nursery. Set within a beautiful and substantial Victorian villa – that was designed by prominent local architect George Bidlake - the nursery not only boasts fabulous surroundings but a commitment to offering the very best in personalised care and learning. Indeed, there is a very special atmosphere at Berrington Lodge Nursery and you will

always receive a very warm welcome whenever you visit. Outdoor play is highly valued and prioritised as an integral part of the exciting educational programme at Berrington. During outdoor play, practitioners encourage and support children’s problem-solving skills and nurture their creativity, as well as providing rich opportunities for their developing imagination, inventiveness and resourcefulness. Children at Berrington Lodge Nursery are encouraged to speak out and stay safe as they develop strong emotional bonds with expert staff who consistently implement detailed and considered safeguarding policies and procedures. wolverhampton west magazine

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GIVEmas Fair a Success for project give An initiative to support young people and end ‘period poverty’ marked the end of the year in style thanks to a local health Cash Plan organisation and many local supporters.

Project GIVE held a final fundraiser of 2018 called the ‘GIVEmas Fair’ which took place at the Light House, Wolverhampton, and saw over 250 guests attend and over 25 stalls selling food, handmade decorations and bespoke gifts. Project GIVE is run by Kelly Walker-Reed to ensure that no young person in Wolverhampton and surrounding areas will have to suffer the effects of period poverty, where young people from low income backgrounds cannot afford basic menstrual products — a problem said to impact one in 10 women aged 14 to 21 in Britain. Kelly Walker-Reed explained: “This was our first event and we’re all absolutely thrilled with how it went — it was a truly magical end to the year. We raised a total of £897 on the day which was rounded up to £1,000 by Paycare, who also kindly paid for the fantastic Light House as our venue.” Thanks to a Twitter hashtag campaign #FingersCrossedforBev, recording artist, radio presenter and musical theatre actress Beverley Knight MBE made a special appearance and

Mrs Claus with Beverley Knight MBE

Lucy Palin, Kevin Rogers, Beverley Knight MBE and Kelly Walker-Reed

supported the cause to raise awareness of, and end, period poverty in Wolverhampton. Kelly added: “We wanted to make it more than a Christmas fair and our entertainment on the day really made it special. We had Labour MP Eleanor Smith attend along with a belly dancing group, the Bethel All Saints Apostolic Church Choir, singer and record producer Róisín Murphy, as well as a singer Nicola Elliot and much more.” The Project GIVE team also held a Facebook poll on whether to invite Santa Claus or Mrs Claus, with the latter winning hands-down and handing out various gifts and raffle prizes to guests. These included pantomime theatre tickets, Toni & Guy hair salon vouchers, and a meet and greet with Conor Coady (of Wolverhampton Wanderers) along with a signed pair of his football boots. “Huge thanks to all of those who came, showed their support and volunteered, and of course to Paycare, which not only helped us to make this event a success but also helped us find a home for Project GIVE by donating to us some of their empty office space at Paycare House,” Kelly concluded. Kevin Rogers, CEO of Paycare, commented: “We’re so proud to support such a wonderful cause like Project GIVE and were delighted to cover the costs of the Light House as the venue, as well as top up

their fundraising total to £1000. It was humbling to see so many businesses, individuals and groups come together in support of tackling period poverty in Wolverhampton, and we very much look forward to working with the team to continue raising awareness during 2019.” Over 1800 sanitary products were donated at the event, which Project GIVE is sharing with schools across Wolverhampton for pupils to use however they need, whether that be for a single day or throughout the month. A special thanks from Project GIVE and Paycare goes to the many volunteers who helped make the event a success, including Lucy Palin, Angie Kijak-Davis, Stacie Goodhead, Nami Beards, Shanice Henry, Mark McGuire, Georgia Speed, Claire Carmichael, Louise Kealy and Natalie Quinn-Walker. For more information, please visit Project GIVE Wolverhampton on Facebook, or visit www.inspiringhealthychoices.co.uk For more information about Paycare, please visit www.paycare.org Photos courtesy of Dan Walker Captures

wolverhampton west magazine

We Would like to Wish all our customers a merry christmas and a happy neW year. throughout the festive season We shall be closed from saturday 22nd december 2018 and re-open on saturday 5th January 2019.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

SYbiL’S bridge drive

Raising money for two very worthy causes and prepare the lunch that we had donated for the event.” They all had a great day and raised £800. “The other half of the money will go to Compton Care, which is a charity that I’m always keen to support and have raised money for in the past.” In fact, over the years Sybil raised a remarkable sum of £40,000 that was split between Compton Care, The Air Ambulance, Arthritis Research, Hope House Childrens Hospice and many other charities.

Sybil Taylor (Hostess), Gerry Duffy (Captain South Staff’s Golf Club) with volunteers Marlene Cox and Gloria Cornwell

When it comes to raising money for a good cause, Sybil Taylor knows just how to pull out all the stops to get a fantastic result.

14th December at her home in Trescott and was all in aid of two exceptional charities: Macmillan Nurses and Compton Care.

Over the years she has organised everything from charity balls to coffee mornings and has raised astonishing sums for worthy causes with help from her family and friends - and plenty of generous donors too, including Richard Branson, Royston Blythe and Nick Malenko.

As Sybil explains: “Gerry Duffy is our Captain at South Staffordshire Golf Club and he was keen to raise money for Macmillan Nurses because of the excellent support they had provided for his mother. So, I decided to help.”

Her latest fundraising event, A Bridge Drive, was held on Friday

“My three fantastic friends - Ann James, Gloria Cornwell and Marlene Cox – helped me cook

“The Air Ambulance is a charity that I’ve also worked hard to help because they do so much good work helping those in the countryside – and elsewhere, of course,” she adds. Sybil has always enjoyed charity work and has got a lot of pleasure from helping her chosen charities. So, it probably won’t be too long before she and her friends will be using her fund-raising skills to help yet another worthy cause.

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Caring for the ones you love the most! 66

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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

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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 68

*over a 2 month period

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20% OFF YOUR FOOD BILL When you each purchase a main meal from our Bistro menu (excludes fixed price lunch)

Tuesday - Saturday, 2nd January - 13th February Valid 1 voucher per party, maximum discount of ÂŁ50 applies. Voucher can only be used once, subject to availability.

To validate this offer please complete the details below Name: Email: Please tick this box if you would like to receive offers from us Three Hammers Bar & Bistro, Old Stafford Road, Coven Heath, Wolverhampton, WV10 7PP www.3hammersbistro.co.uk / info@3hammersbistro.co.uk / 01902 791917

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An Exceptional Year for

halfpenny green wi n e e s t a t e Wine Estate’s restaurant is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, snacks and drinks.

With harvest and Christmas under its belt, Halfpenny Green Wine estate, situated near Wombourne, is all geared up for another busy year! 2018 was an exceptional year for The Estate; with not only the addition of a new Balcony, the vineyard also had a record harvest, which exceeded expectations. For once, the Great British Summer stepped up to the mark, giving them the perfect grape-growing climate and consequently, an abundance of grapes from their 30 acres of vines, eventually to become their 2018 vintage. The recently completed Wine Loft Balcony, which gives stunning views over the spectacular South Staffordshire countryside, adds another dimension to the Estate’s offerings. With their own range of thirteen award-winning wines and a bespoke gin menu, the new balcony, which will also be opening during the evenings for private functions, offers a tranquil, childfree area for customers to relax 70

Whether it’s a Mother’s Day present or a gift for another occasion, the shop is the perfect place for you! With an entire floor dedicated to wine and gin, a personalised wine labelling service and custom-made hampers, there’s no excuse to pass up on the perfect gift! The shop also offers gift vouchers for a range of experiences from High Teas to Gin and Wine Tastings and the knowledgeable shop staff are always happy to help you find the right gift for any occasion. and enjoy their favourite tipple, along with the Chef’s delicious Tapas, if desired! This will be the perfect place to unwind and delight in the beauty of the vineyards and the surrounding countryside, maybe even catching a breathtaking Spring sunset or two! With Spring in mind, what better place to celebrate Mother’s Day than Halfpenny Green Wine Estate this March. On Sunday 31st, the restaurant will be serving a special three-course meal. The delicious menu is created by the Head Chef and is available for one day only. As always, everything is cooked freshto-order and served directly to your table by a team of friendly service staff. What better way to treat that special lady! Places are limited though, so booking is necessary by calling the Restaurant on 01384 221122. If you’re too busy celebrating, don’t worry as the

Looking for something custom made, or perhaps a commission? The Craft Centre at Halfpenny Green Wine Estate should have just what you’re looking for! The centre is home to a range of artisan businesses, offering products and services such as jewellery, giftware, beauty, art, crafts, wooden gifts and furniture, glassware and so much more. Head to www.halfpennygreen. co.uk for more information. Also located on site is WILD Zoological Park. This animal park provides an interactive and educational experience for all ages, showcasing different animals and species from all over the world. It’s the perfect place for the whole family, so, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate surely has to be at the top of your Visit List in 2019! wolverhampton west magazine

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

AWARD-WINNING ENGLISH WINES

SHOP, DELI & WINE LOFT

NEWLY BUILT BALCONY

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: 11th May, 23rd May and 1st 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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Wombourne T an d o o r i

By Geoff Hall Want a sure fire way to spice up a cold winter’s night? Fed up with rubbish TV, age-old tradition and too much turkey? I have just the tonic to get you over the post-Christmas hump: Wombourne Tandoori. I’m trying to remember when I sampled my first taste of the Indian subcontinent’s most famous export. I’d love to tell you that it was during my time backpacking along the backbone of Bangladesh as a student, but the reality is that it was almost certainly in a curry house somewhere within Wolverhampton’s city limits. Or

perhaps it was on my way back from a late kick-off at The Hawthorns.

– I live in Perton – or because it’s the cheapest, but because it is the best.

What I can remember is what years of masala munching and naan noshing has taught me – i.e what makes a good curry, great. And now I’m telling you where you can find it. I’ve been a regular at Wombourne Tandoori for decades, not because it’s closest to my home

So here goes, fellow curry fans, a swift introduction to the best curry house in your area. November 2019 will mark Wombourne Tandoori’s 30th year in business and that alone makes the landmark eatery – which has always enjoyed pride of place on High Street, Wombourne – a bit of a local legend.

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Co-owner and front of house figurehead is Rafique Miah who, together with brother and chef Makham, bought the Wombourne premises in 1989 in order to deliver authentic Bangladeshi family recipes to the masses. The restaurant has won countless prestigious awards, is known for its spotless 5 Star Food Hygiene record and fantastic food. And there is a real edge to the place. Like some hidden bonus level only dedicated Playstation gamers know to unlock, Rafique has a secret weapon: signature menu items not on the menu. “We have up to 70 recipes that are not listed,” he says, “if we listed them, others would try to copy them.” Rafique regularly goes to Bangladesh to visit his home town of Sylhet to pick up new recipe ideas. “Over 95% of Indian restaurants in England are owned by Sylheti people” added Rafique. So be sure to ask him for all the latest details when you pop in – just like I did when I visited with my partner Gisella and our good friends Sam and Brian from Coven.

rock god K.K Downing – but my party are definitely hungry…and we do arrive like VIPs, owing to some chauffeur-driven luxury from Image Luxury Cars. In fact, we arrive early at the restaurant and so have a drink at the bar. The restaurant is busy and, trust me, it almost always is. The style inside is cool and contemporary. Everything is neatly organised, when we are seated at our table we notice pristine tablecloths and napkins, with sparkling cutlery laid out with military precision. We just have to try some of Rafique’s special recommendations from the clay oven: Sheek Kebab (£3.50) for the guys and Tandoori King Prawn (£5.75) for the girls. While we wait we snack on a plate of poppadoms, onion salad and a tray of pickles (85p each). Then before we can really get deep into our long awaited catch-up, the

restaurant staff – all of whom are excellent and attentive throughout the night – arrive with four plates of steaming hot goodness. All of us fall silent, no longer chatting about holidays and classic cars: instead all that can be heard is a symphony of smacking lips and impressed coos. Before the night is out both Brian and Sam – themselves food connoisseurs who eat at many top restaurants – say their meal is probably among the best curry they’ve ever eaten. I absolutely love my kebab – the

We may not be some of the restaurant’s most famous customers – when I was last here I spied Judas Priest 74

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lamb mince and combination of spices blow my socks off. Now for some sizzle and stir: two of Rafique’s Signature Dishes with an added twist: Chicken Tikka Jaflonghe with fresh Bindi okra (£8.95) for Gisella and I and two more mains, King Prawn dish Jingha Goa with yet another personalised twist - it’s served with fresh spinach and a touch of pickle (£13.95) - for our guests. We may not be famous like guitar great K.K Downing, but having a customised dish certainly makes us feel we are. Gisella and I also have Peas pilau rice (£2.95) and a Peshwari naan (£2.50) and Sam and Brian have vegetable rice (£2.95) and a vegetable naan (£2.50). And when the mains arrive there’s a bit of circus, because every platter emerges sizzling from the kitchen. “Looking too good to eat is an understatement”, says Brian. “Can’t wait to dive in”, is all I can come up with before I gorge on the premium chicken, relishing the assorted herbs and spices and how they make my taste buds dance from floor to ceiling. I really do love this place and I’m so grateful to have it on my doorstep. Coven is “just that bit further to travel”, I say to Sam, stirring gleefully.

While we’re all still happily demolishing what is almost unanimously described as “amazing, tasty, fresh food” I clock the general mood of the room: busy and buzzing says it best. Aromatic and silky-smooth are two of my best adjectives for the bottle of Argentinian red Malbec wine (£15.95) that is, again, recommended by Rafique. And then there’s the value: all this quality for not a lot of money. This top quality grub fills our winter boots so full that we don’t even look at the attractive, well-stocked dessert menu. Coffee at £3.95 each is just the job.

All that’s left is to toast the unofficial king of curry and his team on Wombourne Tandoori’s upcoming 30th anniversary. Rafique has special celebrations planned for the coming summer, so be sure to check out this restaurant – it’s a place where excellent food, service and value are guaranteed whatever the season – just be sure to book. Oh and, don’t worry, only very rarely does Wombourne Tandoori serve turkey. All of us at Wolverhampton West wish Wombourne Tandoori continued success and urge Rafique never to change his winning formula.

Wombourne Tandoori, High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DN For bookings please call 01902 324148 / 01902 324437

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Terms & Conditions: One voucher is valid per email address/per person throughout January & February 2019. The 20% discount is NOT available on the Fixed Price Mid Week Menu, Thursday Steak Nights, Friday Fish & Fizz or Sunday Lunch. The voucher is only valid when all members of the party dine off the full normal menu. Bookings are essential and the voucher must be mentioned when booking. Valid for parties of 10 or less. We will use your email address to add to our database and send you offers and news about the Shrewsbury Arms. We never use your personal information to pass on to third parties and we promise to keep anything we send you relative to what we know you like. You have the choice to opt out of these emails at any time. Valid from 2nd January 2019 - 28th February 2019 Inclusive. EXCLUDES 14th February 2019.

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 76

facebook.com/wombourne.tandoori

www.wombournetandoori.com wolverhampton west magazine

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

www.grillitonline.co.uk Follow us on: www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Win a meal for two

at The Oak ley Arms, Brewood

This month we have teamed up with The Oakley Arms to give one lucky reader the chance to win a fabulous meal for two people including a bottle of wine. As any hungry traveller will tell you first impressions count. Get it right as a pub and you’ll draw in people in droves – a dab of kerb appeal, a dash of plentiful parking and a smorgasbord of affordable culinary choice is always a winning trio. Boasting all of the above

in spades, The Oakley Arms in Brewood sends road-weary wouldbe diners careering off Kiddemore Green Road on a regular basis. And once they’ve eaten inside they return again and again. The Oakley Arms sits on the outskirts of Brewood but is a pub well within the hearts of the locals who drop by on horseback or bicycle or along with their dogs during country rambles. They are lucky enough to have the most fabulous lake which can be seen from many rooms within the pub and is flanked by the stone

terrace which is the most wonderful place to dine on sunny days. This is a charming pub with wellspaced rooms with wooden floors and roaring fires, a well-stocked bar at the centre of all things and a beautiful garden room filled with light. The menus have their roots in modern British cooking, with a hint of the more exotic about them. They change often to reflect the seasons and are supported by a well-balanced wine list offering a good quality but affordable range that they have enjoyed researching (very much).

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

What is the address for The Oakley Arms? 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 15th February 2019. Competition Terms and Conditions: Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and informed by telephone. To enter you must be aged 18 years or older. No cash or alternative prize will be given. Prize to be redeemed by Thursday 28th March 2019. Valid from Sunday to Thursday inclusive. Booking date will be subject to availability.

wolverhampton west magazine

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.

Dear diners please don’t forget the Christmas envelopes we gave you. We will pick up either a quarter, half or your full food bill when dining at The Oakley Arms, Monday to Thursday from 2nd January 2019 until 13th February 2019. Valid for bookings only when you present your unopened envelope for up to six people.

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

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

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JANUARY FREE RACING

W O LV E R H A M P T O N - R A C E C O U R S E . C O . U K

Terms & Conditions. Online bookings close at midnight before fixture date. Tickets canwolverhampton be purchased from ÂŁ14 onwest the gate.magazine

More than just a r ac e co u r s e Wolverhampton Racecourse certainly is more than just a racecourse and over the past year has seen many new and exciting events. In October 2017, we welcomed our new Meeting and Events Sales Manager Helen Lees to the venue and her wealth of knowledge along with over 10 years of experience has seen the conference and meeting side of the business go from strength to strength over the past year. Located in the heart of the Midlands and set within 22 acres of beautiful parkland, our outdoor space has become increasingly popular and has seen our first outdoor cinema event take place on the centre course. From old classics like Dirty Dancing, Grease and Hocus Pocus to current movies such as The Greatest Showman, the venue became a destination for all ages. With camp chairs, picnic blankets and food at the ready, hundreds of excited families enjoyed a lively atmosphere before watching the beautiful sun set behind the racecourse and the film theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d been waiting in great anticipation to see. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve also seen a whole host of other fantastic outdoor events in 2018, including the 5k Inflatable Run, Colour Run and the Circus.

With the indoor space being just as popular, we welcomed the West Mercia Beagle Show to the racecourse in November and are delighted that they have booked their event here again for the next two years. The large EBC Technology Suite also saw Anthony Joshua visit Wolverhampton for the first time back in May, when he took part in a Black Panther themed evening, along with a fabulous range of award dinners including the Express & Star Awards and of course, the Black Country Chamber of Commerce Awards. Why not consider Wolverhampton Racecourse for your next meeting or event? A popular venue all round for weddings, meetings, celebrations and much more.

Keep up to date with all the latest racecourse news and information at 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 and our social media channels. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Patek PhiliPPe Phili at Rudell the JewelleRs

The foremost name in watchmaking, Patek Philippe, is available to buy from Wolverhampton and Harborne’s foremost jewellery stores, Rudell the Jewellers. In fact, you’ll struggle to find any one of these superlative timepieces anywhere else in the entire West Midlands. That’s because Patek Philippe is very particular about who carries its product. And so it should be, because finding a retailer with as much class and heritage as Patek itself is no mean feat. But Rudell the Jewellers proves a perfect match. So, even though Christmas has come and gone, it’s still high time to check out what’s in store, especially the latest 2018 collection from Baselworld. The famous Patek brand is hugely exclusive and to see both the flagship Darlington Street store as well as Rudells’ Harborne store, part of the illustrious list of retailers is a real coup for the local business, which itself boasts a proud history stretching back 80 years. Rudells has always maintained a strong connection to our city throughout its many years of trading and is as renowned a jeweller – which delivers some of the finest customer care in the Midlands as well as some of the most prestigious and precious selections of jewellery, timepieces and luxury giftware brands – as Patek is a watchmaker.

say about the company’s mission to invest in innovation with new materials and leading-edge technologies, while continuing to preserve the tradition of ancestral watchmaking know-how. You won’t have to travel so far to see Rudells’ ethos in action however, a simple visit to your local store will do and, unlike having to hunt with an eye glass to find the Patek seal of approval – which is added to every mechanical timepiece they produce – a simple chat with one of Rudells’ many satisfied customers will suffice. Patek Philippe today has over 1600 employees – many of whom will likely remain employed in the business throughout their entire career – and though Rudells can’t compete which such numbers it does share similarities when it comes to retaining employees long-term. As well as this there are a number of other shared values: tradition, innovation, emotion and service are but some of them. Today’s Patek Philippe collection is brimming with soon-to-be legendary timepieces and every one of them is devoted to the millimetrically-obsessive craft of design and manufacture that has helped keep the Patek brand above all other pretenders. Like Rudells itself, this company is both grandiose in stature and intimate in nature and is sure to continue for countless years to come.

For nearly 180 years, Patek Philippe has been mastering the exquisite art of traditional Swiss watchmaking, enjoying total creative freedom to design, produce and assemble what many experts agree are the finest timepieces in the world. The company began with founders Antoine Norbert de Patek and Jean Adrien Philippe and in the years since it has obtained over 100 patents in the process of designing and building timepieces that are of unrivalled quality and reliability, that boast such uniqueness and exclusivity and that are often handed down through families in a way similar to how the company torch has, since 1932, been passed from one member of the Stern family to another. It’s not often that a watchmaker can boast its own museum. With more than 2000 exhibits, the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva was opened in 2001 and says best everything there is to www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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I am really happy to be able to offer more of Heaven with our new treatment rooms in Harvey Nichols - Birmingham

MORE H E AVE N

Heaven DPS Wolves mag Jan 18.indd 2

EVEN Ò

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05/12/2018 16:01

MITCHELL H E AVE N AT H A R VEY N I C H O LS B I R M I N G H A M

OUR OWN SLICE OF HEAVEN AT HARVEY NICHOLS Anyone who knows us will know that the team at Heaven love retail therapy almost as much as we love skincare therapy. So you can imagine our delight at launching our brand new salon at Harvey Nichols Birmingham. Heaven by Deborah Mitchell opened exclusively at the luxury Mailbox store on Saturday December 1, offering a host of results-driven therapies as well as Deborah’s iconic Bee Venom products At the very forefront of Deborah’s skincare is her famous bee venom ABEETOXIN®, an ultra-antiageing formula that works to strengthen collagen, tissue and elastin. The new Harvey Nichols salon will not only be showcasing our amazing skincare products but will also offer her 60-minute Bee Sting Facial as well as the 90 minute Bee Slim Ritual. “As a big fan of Harvey Nichols Birmingham I couldn’t be more excited to be launching right in the heart of the city,” says Deborah. “Our new salon is an oasis of calm where clients can

sit and relax after a treatment and look over the store’s bustle down below and totally unwind ... before enjoying some retail therapy of course.” Other state-of-the-art treatments include Lia Therapy, the first non-surgical spiritual facial to improve skin and wellbeing; a range of LED and laser procedures; Our 55-minute ultimate unwind Dream Facial, which is excellent for those with insomnia, stress or anxiety; As well as our Oxy-Hydra 8 medispa procedure that uses oxygen to infuse and plump skin while a hydra water treatment works like a dermabrasion to intensely deep clean and tone. All that and more designer labels than you can shake a stick at right on our doorstep. I think we’re in Heaven!

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Heaven DPS Wolves mag Jan 18.indd 3

Heaven by Deborah Mitchell at Harvey Nichols is now open. For one-to-one consultations and appointments please call 0121 616 6019.

16/12/2018 11:42

More than just weight loss The mood-boosting benefits

of personal training at

ChRis Jewkes Fitness

When it comes to personal training at Chris Jewkes Fitness clients see results fast.

issues like depression, stress management and self-esteem.”

boosted and they’re in a much better frame-of-mind.

When clients leave the centre following a session with Chris or one of the highly skilled and experienced team of personal trainers - their mood has been

“Many of our clients have really stressful jobs and lead very busy lives and they have found that their training sessions with us

Whether they’re visiting the Danescourt Road-based centre to lose weight, tone-up or even regain strength after surgery, the physical results of their training sessions are apparent in no time. But, what is not always as clear to see is the huge psychological benefit that comes as a result of personal training - which has been scientifically proven to improve mental health. As Chris Jewkes explains: “Exercise massively benefits your mental health and helps with 88

wolverhampton west magazine

have provided a great way to de-stress and feel happier.” An hour’s session at Chris Jewkes Fitness is enough to boost both body and mind: “Most of our clients spend the day stuck behind a computer or in their car and coming to us after work allows them to shake off the stresses of the day and lose themselves in their hour-long training session.”

And, the personal trainers at Chris Jewkes are as much concerned with a client’s lifestyle as they are spending time with them in the gym during their session. “We don’t only concentrate on time spent in the gym; we look at the lifestyle of our clients because we know that the key to achieving lasting results is through good nutritional coaching.” It’s this approach that has resulted in the catalogue of amazing

transformations that Chris Jewkes Fitness has become known for – many of which have been seen on ITV’s show, The Biggest Loser. “It doesn’t matter how long you spend in the gym, if you’re eating and drinking the wrong things then achieving and maintaining weight loss will be impossible.” That’s why the team are so keen to change the lifestyle factors that influence poor choices when it comes to food and drink. “Nutrition is the difference between ok and life changing results. Looking at the day-to-day life of our clients means we can identify where they’re falling down, and recognise what might be preventing them from reaching their goals,” adds Chris. So, whatever you want to improve in 2019 – health, body, fitness or mind – make sure that you contact the Chris Jewkes team to guarantee great results. Chris Jewkes Fitness, Danescourt Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9BQ. For further details please call 01902 750355.

www.chrisjewkesfitness.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Celebrate double triumph

in National Hair Awards

wolverhampton west magazine

The Royston Blythe team are busy celebrating yet another fantastic win at the annual National Hairdressing Federation Awards. For the second year running, the amazingly talented team picked up coveted awards, winning in two categories: British 2018 Winners of Female Fashion Collection of the Year and British 2018 Winners of Female Fashion Look of the Year. The industry event that’s organised by one of the most respected and recognised hairdressing bodies in the world was held at Manchester’s splendid Hilton Hotel and boasts a glitzy champagne-fuelled

ceremony that recognises only the very best hairdressing talent. As NHF President, Agnes Leonard explains: “Winning such a respected competition is a true reflection of a stylist’s talent and Royston Blythe should be extremely proud of what they have achieved.” This sort of recognition isn’t new for Royston Blythe though, the team are regularly commended for their exceptional hairdressing as well as their photographic collections and they’ve won the Midlands Hairdresser Of The Year Award three times as well as plenty of other accolades over the years.

It goes without saying that Royston, Nick and the team are ecstatic, as Royston says: “We are absolutely delighted to scoop this title for the second year running. We are incredibly proud of our team and we work to consistently deliver a seamless experience and exceed expectations. “Entering national awards is an opportunity to work with our creative talent and delight in expressing a vision that is more unique and individual – the time we spend working on these collections is precious and to hear that we were announced as national winners is fabulous,” adds Royston. To find your perfect new look for 2019, book in at the salon today.

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Look amazing this year

Get fit, get healthy

It’s the start of a brand new year and we all know that we really should be making those changes that’ll make a difference to our health and fitness in 2019.

Getting started - or even knowing where to start is a challenge, but there’s one sure way to make a difference and that’s by making small changes that’ll add-up in the long run. One of the main reasons so many of us end up never attaining our goals is because often they’re just far too unrealistic. So, why not start off small this year? Here’s our guide to help you find a brand new you in 2019: Get moving No matter how slowly you start, beginning an exercise routine is essential for achieving your weight loss and fitness goals this year. Simply stepping outside into the fresh air and taking a walk is the perfect way to begin. Gradually increasing your activity over a period of days and weeks will ensure that you reap plenty of benefits in the long term. Taking out a gym membership is an ideal way to boost your commitment to your new routine and it’s definitely worth having some personal training sessions too. 92

A one-to-one session with a personal trainer will give you all you need to know to help you attain your individual goals and remain completely focused along the way. You are what you eat Yes, we’ve all heard it a million times before but, it really is true: you are what you eat. So, this year why not be a little healthier? Start by making simple changes in your diet; replace fatty, sugary snacks with a healthy alternative, swap fizzy drinks for mineral water and take time to plan your meals to avoid reaching for those caloriepacked ‘convenient’ choices. Look good, feel good Getting fit and healthy comes with many rewards, some you can’t see – like the difference it makes to your heart and lungs - but many you can. And, it’s those cosmetic changes that serve as a real confidence booster, whatever your age. Plus, it’s easy to maximise those positive changes by taking

notice of a few small things that you’ve probably overlooked. Posture is something that we often don’t think about, but standing up straight, putting your shoulders back and walking tall makes an enormous difference to both your figure and the way people perceive you. Taking care of your skin, hair and nails is essential for looking polished and taking the time to make sure that you look your best really will set you apart from the rest. Finally, don’t forget your feet. Painted toenails and pedicured feet are a must whatever the time of year and looking after your foot health should always be a priority. Neglecting foot issues can cause real problems in the future, so always be prepared to give your feet a treat. So, why not get started on your journey today and enjoy looking amazing and feeling fabulous in 2019? wolverhampton west magazine

SKIN TREATMENTS FOR THE FACE AND BODY

About TLC The LUMINAIRE Clinic has pleasure in providing revolutionary treatments that deliver RESULTS and make a difference. Treat your S K I N to our self-regenerating therapy treatments.

The Effects of Our Treatments Lifts & Tightens Skin Reduces Wrinkles Reduces Pigmentation Reduces Acne & Scarring Reduces Stretch Marks Skin Therapy and Maintenance

Results continue to improve after each treatment.

The Results

BEFORE

AFTER

www.theluminaireclinic.co.uk Bredon House, 321 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV6 0JZ www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Aristocats

Autumn/Winter 2018 Sale

wolverhampton west magazine

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

SALE STARTS

Friday 4th January 2019 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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wolverhampton west magazine

ALWAYS WIPE AWAY YOUR DAY Removing your make-up is a must How many times have you come home late, rolled into bed and forgotten to take your make-up off? It’s the number one beauty sin and most of us have been guilty of it at least once or twice. You probably think that skipping your skincare routine as a one off won’t make a difference but actually not removing your make-up can result in some really nasty outcomes for your skin.

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After all, there’s a reason that beauty experts tell us to always take our make-up off and here’s why:

It clogs your pores Most make-up is made from oily substances which can clog the pores, so just one night without cleansing can result in a nasty breakout.

There’s no doubt that removing your make-up is pretty important but it’s still hard to find the time and energy to dedicate to a completely committed skincare routine.

Acne, blackheads and blemishes are all part of the payback for not wiping away your make-up thoroughly.

Fortunately, Deborah Mitchell – founder of the world-renowned Heaven Skincare brand – has the perfect solution: Ella Jane Wipes. Designed by Deborah and her daughter Ella to offer a quick, yet effective, way to remove make-up and impurities, Heaven’s Ella Jane Wipes provide a real treat for the skin.

Skin renewal is compromised

Boasting all the benefits of Heaven’s luxury products the wipes take care of the needs of every skin type:

Whilst you sleep your skin renews itself so leaving a full day’s make-up on – or any trace of it – will affect this process.

Ella Jane Wipes Heal: Utilising the soothing properties of chamomile, ‘Heal’ wipes address the needs of sensitive skin which is prone to breakouts, redness and inflammation. And, they’re ideal for those suffering broken veins or rosacea too.

Old foundation, powder and concealer – combined with the day’s oil and grime – create an unpleasant barrier on the skin which stops the renewal process and prevents skin from breathing. The result is dry and dull-looking skin.

Ella Jane Wipes Renew: The perfect anti-ageing solution, ‘Renew’ wipes contain Heaven’s signature ABEETOXIN®and work to make skin look firmer and younger, whilst gently removing pigmentation and scars. They promote skin rejuvenation, restore balance and brighten the complexion. And, they’re suitable for all ages and skin types.

YouÕ ll look older

Our Sales Director, Gisella Wiley has long been a fan of Heaven’s range and she just loves the new wipes, as she explains: “I’ve been using the ‘Heal’ wipes for a while now and they’re fabulous. They smell gorgeous, are larger than average – meaning you don’t have to use as many – and leave your skin looking and feeling amazing.”

Traces of yesterday’s make-up settle in fine lines and wrinkles, making them more visible and the combination of trapped make-up and dirt causes environmentally-induced oxidative damage that results in premature ageing.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Heaven Ellajane Edit Cleansing tips 18.indd 1

So, thanks to Heaven looking after your skin is easier than ever. W W W. H E AVE N S K I N CA R E .CO M

16/12/2018 23:23

Madi Bowman

Jade Shelden

Felicity Turner

BooshTOX® - Aesthetics and Laser Clinic

Dr Andrew Booshan and Serenna Smith welcomed clients to a launch party to celebrate the opening of BooshTOX® - the luxurious new non-surgical medical aesthetics clinic located at Pendeford Business Park, Wolverhampton. Sponsored by Enoura Aesthetics, equipment provider of their new, highly sought after treatment - The Levura No-Needle Facelift and Venus Concept, provider of their best-in-class Laser Hair Removal platform. Demonstrations were performed with no shortage of volunteers! Celebs Mark Byron and Bex Shiner, both previous Big Brother contestants were in attendance for a lively and enjoyable evening at the clinic. BooshTOX® would like to thank all attendees and supporters and wishes a Happy and Healthy 2019 to all. Photographs courtesy of Andrews Creative

Joanne Whitehouse, Louise Tonks, Sarah Billings

Anne Smith, Andrew Smith, Kiran Chaggar

Mark Byron, Bex Shiner John Richards (vice chairman), Richard Green

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Dr Andrew Booshan

Serenna Smith

wolverhampton Michelle Bealey

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Improving the customer experience at

Tay lo r B i d d l e

Taylor Biddle Opticians is celebrating its amazing expansion of the Compton branch.

The practice has been stylishly refurbished by an award-winning designer to offer an even greater service and experience to everyone, but especially to those with mobility requirements. More spacious, advanced high-tech testing rooms, a lift to the upper floor with large frame display areas, disabled washroom as well as ample parking at the back are very convenient for disabled accessibility as well as for those who are looking for a highly professional and enjoyable experience. Director Tracey Taylor says: “We are very proud of our high standards of eye care and individual customer service that we offer to our patients. As our business grew, we became aware of limitations of the space and facilities that we were able to offer to our customers, so when the opportunity arose to expand our upper floor area we decided to invest in a full refurbishment. We also decided to install a lift to allow better access to our consulting rooms, introduce a hearing service and showcase a larger selection of designer and classic style frames”

The stylish displays feature contemporary new frames by designers such as William Morris, Moleskine, Jimmy Choo as well as new collections from Ray Ban, Hugo Boss and Jaguar. We also stock one of the largest selections in the area of the timeless and elegant Silhouette brand, including their fabulous rimless range. The collections are constantly updated with new styles and features to enhance the individual look and offer increased comfort. Time doesn’t stand still at Taylor Biddle and the team are constantly learning challenging new skills in order to expand their knowledge of the latest eye care and eyewear innovations.

Olha Lac and Tracey Taylor

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Director Olha Lac says: “We

strive for clinical excellence and believe in continually investing in the very latest eye scanning technology. We are proud to be the first in the West Midlands to introduce the incredible Daytona Plus Optomap which perfectly complements our existing 3D OCT (Ocular Coherence Topography Macular scan). The Optomap can usually be performed without pupil dilation with drops, and still produce the highest quality and widest panoramic views of the retina, thus avoiding the inconvenience of blurry vision and the inability to drive. This means that we are able to perform an even more thorough eye exam than was previously possible and can better prevent or reduce vision loss in our patients.” The Hearing Care Partnership has also been a popular addition to the Taylor Biddle services. The free hearing assessments are conducted by Helen, an experienced audiologist who takes time to explore every individuals needs and advise on hearing aids that will make the greatest possible difference to everyday life. wolverhampton west magazine

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

WINTER OFFER

Free single vision lenses or upgrade to a multifocal for just £50 (T&C’s apply) when you buy a premium varifocal - ends 28th February 2019

34 Windmill Bank Wombourne 01902 895 909

39 Bridgnorth Road Compton 01902 750 325

www.taylorbiddleopticians.co.uk

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Promise Dreams host a festive afternoon tea at The Mount Hotel, Tettenhall Just under 60 ladies came together at The Mount Hotel Tettenhall, on Monday 10th December for a special Christmas afternoon tea in aid of Promise Dreams. With special Christmas stalls and lunchtime festivities the event raised money to help a special little girl called Mary Ellen. A four-year-old girl who was born with a rare syndrome called Macrocephaly Capillary Malformation. She also has Hydrocephalus and severe Epilepsy. The family applied to Promise Dreams for a little holiday together at Butlinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and thanks to everyone involved in the event, Mary Ellen will be able to go.

Beverley Bird, Kirsty Bull, Ali Breakwell, Paula Bawa, Donna Wood

Nicole Jupp, Terri Jewkes, Vickie Jones

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Sarah Ward, Samantha Parr

Rachel Stallard, Helen Caddick

Claire Walters, Anna Liuzzi-Jones, Fiona Beech

Sophie Jones, Ellie Hammond

Sue Reade, Hazel Hammondwolverhampton

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Work-Out By Helen Taylor

in Style The days of turning up at the gym in an old pair of sweatpants and a baggy t-shirt are long gone; now, it’s all about looking great whilst you get in shape. So, before you get started on your New Year’s fitness plan you’ll need to hit the shops and get your hands on some on-trend gym-wear looks that’ll give you an edge in the style stakes, whether you’re a fitness pro or just starting out. See in store Dorothy Perkins

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See in store or online for prices Dorothy Perkins

wolverhampton west magazine

Activewear T-Shirt £12 Florence & Fred at Tesco

T-Shirt £6 George at Asda

Slogan vest £12 Dorothy Perkins

Activewear Leggings £14 Florence & Fred at Tesco

Leggings £20 Dorothy Perkins

gymsack £12.99 Adidas at Deichmann

Lace-up Trainers £47.99 Skechers at Deichmann

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

‘Tanjun’ Aqua Trainers £49.99 Nike at Deichmann

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A NEW YEAR - A NEW YOU !

Recent years have seen an explosion in demand for and acceptance of cosmetic procedures, both surgical and non-surgical. In a world where people are living longer and remaining active, more people want to keep looking fresh, to make sure they enjoy life; at ease with the way they look. More than ever, it is important that a thorough consultation takes place so that treatments are based on the needs of the individual, making sure that their aspirations can be matched by surgical interventions, fully informed of the limitation and possible complications. Identifying where and who should perform your surgery is essential. This is not a commodity that can be

returned with a full refund or swapped for a different model. A well established provider of private healthcare in the West Midlands, Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital is proud to offer patients the highest standards of consultation, safe treatment and aftercare, at affordable prices. Our hospital, based in Tettenhall for over 40 years, is also the official medical supplier to Wolverhampton Wanderers FC. Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery at our hospital on Wood Road is conducted in ultra-clean environments by a dedicated team of experienced cosmetic surgeons. All our cosmetic surgeons are highly qualified and hold all the relevant professional health accreditations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; being part of the Specialist Register of the General

Medical Council and the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, where their details can be found on www.baaps.org. uk and the British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Procedures available include breast augmentation, uplift and reduction, body contouring, tummy tucks and liposuction, dermal fillers, face and neck lifts, brow uplifts, eye, nose, ear and chin reshaping, mole removal and varicose vein treatments. Remember the training and experience of your surgeon makes the difference to your treatment outcome. With proper counselling and careful treatment, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery can have a powerful, positive impact on your life. To find out more or to book for one of our free events: www.nuffieldhealth.com/ hospitals/wolverhampton/ events or ring 01902 793269.

Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital

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NeW year, NeW leGs, NEW YOU If you have varicose veins and want great looking legs for the summer, now is the time to act. Having these assessed and treated has never been easier. The Vein Clinic, led by Mr Simon Hobbs, Consultant Vascular Surgeon, treats the vast majority of varicose veins as walk-in, walk-out procedures, under local anaesthetic, with greatly enhanced recovery compared to traditional surgical treatments. The clinic, situated in the Wolverhampton Nuffield Hospital, uses the latest in medical technology to diagnose and treat the veins that are the underlying cause of unsightly and symptomatic varicose veins. Mr Hobbs is the only surgeon in the West Midlands currently offering the VenaSeal Closure system, alongside other popular treatments such as Radiofrequency ablation, enabling people to have their veins treated with minimal discomfort.

VenaSeal uses a medical grade super glue to seal off the damaged veins and as it involves fewer injections in the leg this treatment means that you can be quickly back to full activity enjoying the benefits of healthy feeling and great looking legs.

If veins are left untreated, they can lead to bleeding, eczema, phlebitis, brown skin discolouration and potentially leg ulcers, which take a long time to heal. During a consultation, an ultra sound scan will be performed to detect the source of the problem and from the size and position, indicate the required treatment.

Varicose veins are caused by a malfunction of valves in the veins which causes blood to pool and result in painful and unsightly bulges at the skin’s surface. Symptoms include aching, itching, swelling, throbbing and restless legs at night, with both men and women being affected equally.

Recognised by all major Medical Insurers. For self-paying patients, the consultation fee is £150 and an ultrasound of both legs is £99. For further information visit www.simonhobbsveins.co.uk

Before Procedure

Post Procedure

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

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

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

wolverhampton west magazine

A m A z i n g r e s u lt s

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. 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, Pertonbased Consultant, Louise Peck, is thrilled that the new name really reflects the unique benefits of the plan as she explains: “At Cambridge we’ve always known that one-to-one support is

essential for successful weight loss and now it’s been confirmed by independent research as featured in the BBC’s ‘The Big Crash Diet Experiment’ programme.” In fact, it was Louise’s own amazing experience with Cambridge Weight Plan that prompted her to become a Consultant and help others achieve their weight-loss goals. “When I did the plan myself I had excellent support from my Consultant and I managed to lose three stone. So, I know just how much of a difference the right support makes. That’s why I strive to give my clients everything they need to succeed.”

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 get in touch today and look forward to making 2019 your healthiest – and happiest – year yet.

t: 07790 982 888

e: loupeck1@googlemail.com CWPLouisePeck CWPLouisePeck CWPLouisePeck

Whatever your motivation for beginning your own weight loss journey, you can rest assured that with The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge

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3d-lipomed at

COsmEtIqUE

The team of experts at Wolverhampton-based Aesthetic Clinic, Cosmetique, have been busy helping clients take care of all manner of beauty concerns using the latest – and best – techniques and products. Owner, Suky Chana, recently introduced 3D-Lipomed – a brand new 3D treatment.

As Suky explains: “The 3D-Lipomed is an upgraded device to 3D Lipo and it’s only available in aesthetic clinics. It’s a powerful machine that nonsurgically removes fat cells, treats cellulite and provides skin tightening for the face and body. Clients have seen staggering skin tone, fat reduction and weight-loss results, an ideal way to get into shape after over indulging during the festive season”. The process begins with Cavitation, a non-invasive contouring body treatment for localised fat and cellulite.

Radio frequency is incorporated into the treatment to start tightening up the skin.

“The machine also has duo Cryolipolysis, which is a system that freezes fat cells, allowing them to be drained out of the body through the lymphatic system.” The treatments are planned around the individual needs of the client, utilising each of the systems to achieve optimum results. Although every treatment is bespoke, each session has a fixed price of £150. “We use each of the different methods available from the 3D-Lipomed machine to achieve the best results for our clients and work to a set price for each session.” Most people need an average of six to eight sessions, one each week. “You can get a beach body in only eight weeks with our amazing treatment and you don’t even need to exercise, just attend the clinic each week. It is important to eat sensibly

though if you really want to maximise the results from the treatment.” By introducing 3D-Lipomed to the clinic, the team at Cosmetique have made it easy for you to get the bikini body you’ve always wanted.

So, why not book in for a treatment today?

3D–LIPOMED SPECIAL OFFER Package price only £79 per treatment.

Available throughout January and February 2019.

1 off treatment remain at £150.

570 Penn Road, Penn, Wolverhampton WV4 4HU

Clinically led with all procedures carried out by qualified staff New! Dermaplaning from £49, as used by celebrities.

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.

Personalised Packages available to suit client’s needs, ie, Package with LED Opera Mask or Package with Chemical Peel

*Offer prices available throughout January and February 2019 (*personalised packages - prices vary between treatments)

• • • • • •

Laser Hair Removal IPL Pigmentation Scars, Blemishes Stretch Marks Collagen Enhancement Vitamin Infusion

(vitamin boost injections)

• • • • • •

Skin Rejuvination Anti-wrinkle Injections Anti-wrinkle Facials Dermal Fillers, Tear Trough Dermapen (needling) Cryotherapy (removal of warts, skin tags and age spots)

New 3D Lipomed Treatments now available, please call for further details

To book an appointment or further details please call 01902 334181 cosmetiqueaesthetic@gmail.com www.cosmetiqueaesthetics.co.uk 112

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it’s the start of a new year We have all indulged in the festive food and end up with a new year’s resolution to try and lose weight, but usually fail to. However, do we really know the strain our feet and ankles are under to carry more weight than intended? Feet are one of the most ignored parts of the body. The average foot is designed to absorb any shock from slow walking to running. But imagine if you have excess body weight. Every step you take, the foot will have to absorb more due to the extra pressure being placed on them. It will have an impact on your feet as it can change the structure.

and lower back because your body is using muscles and ligaments that are not meant to be used. There are a number of treatments that can help relieve heel pain. These include: • RESTING YOUR HEEL: avoid walking long distances and standing for long periods. • REGULAR STRETCHING: stretching your calf muscles and plantar fascia. • PAIN RELIEF: using an icepack on the affected heel and taking painkillers, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. • WEARING GOOD-FITTING SHOES: that support and cushion your foot; trainers are particularly useful.

Being overweight, the foot is more likely to pronate, which means the foot will slightly lengthen and collapse, causing the arch to fall. The body is unable to stabilise itself meaning the shock absorbency is inefficient. This is likely to cause pain in the knees, hips

• USE SUPPORTIVE DEVICES: such as orthotics or strapping.

Remember, prevention is better than cure.

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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The benefits of fitness classes to achieve their fitness goals can motivate you further, making you want to work harder. If that isn’t enough, the class instructors will be keeping you on your toes! Find a new favourite With fitness classes available for all interests and abilities, there’s always something new and enjoyable to try. Adding a regular Yoga or Pilates class to your routine will help increase your flexibility and muscle tone, whilst adding in a HIIT or Circuits session could introduce you to new challenges, improve your strength and give you inspiration for your own workouts. Make friends!

Many people regularly exercise in gyms, swimming pools and outdoors, covering activities such as weight training, swimming and running, but not everyone incorporates fitness classes into their exercise routines. Gym goers often avoid fitness classes, preferring to head to the cardio or weights section of a gym and overlook what instructor-led sessions have to offer. Others don’t feel confident enough to join in – especially if it’s something they’ve not done before. In fact, research shows that classes can shorten the time it takes to reach your fitness goals, and with everything from Yoga, Aquacise and Zumba to more intense sessions such as Bootcamp, HIIT and Group Cycle, there’s something suitable for all interests, abilities and routines.

Learn from the professionals Following the lead of a professional fitness instructor can help improve your form and the way you carry out particular movements. Instructors are always on hand to give demonstrations or talk through anything you may find difficult. They can also provide alternatives if you’re suffering from an injury and want to take it easy, or if you’re looking to progress and want more of a challenge. Maximise your motivation Being part of a class and getting stuck into your workout alongside other people can be hugely empowering. Seeing other participants enjoying their workout and pushing themselves

Lastly, attending a fitness class can be a social experience; through seeing the same people on a regular basis, many class attendees become friends and socialise outside of their workout sessions. You may meet people who go to many fitness classes and invite you along to a new session which you may not have been to before. If you’re still unsure about adding fitness classes to your routine, why not try one out with a friend? As well as knowing someone else in the class, you can work together to motivate and support one another throughout the session. To find out more about WV Active and to see what fitness classes are on offer at the leisure centres, visit wvactive.com

From January 2019, fitness classes are included in all WV Active memberships. The WV Active Health and Fitness Team have many reasons why you should add regular classes to your weekly routine. 114

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Jan Promo - Wton West Mag Ad 168mm x 245mm.qxp_Layout 1 04/12/2018 10:24 Page 2

GYM, SWIM & CLASSES from Â£10 per month

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         

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wolverhampton west magazine

pop in for the sunday BOAST! Young people from Wolverhampton are being encouraged to make a healthy start to the New Year with free taster sessions of squash and racketball. The new ‘Sunday Boast’ initiative – so-called thanks to the boast shot seen in both squash and racketball – offers youngsters, and also their parents, a chance to try out the sports and see if it takes their fancy as a new and healthy start to 2019. The programme starts on Sunday, January 6th, from 10am-11.30am, with the first three sessions completely free and open to both members and non-members.

Chris is pictured with young squash and racketball players Tanita Patel and Maria McHugh

“The idea is to try and get more young people involved in playing squash and racketball, two really exciting sports which have so many health and fitness benefits,” said Chris Dawson, Head of Squash & Racketball at WLTSC.

they wish, in a really friendly and positive family atmosphere at the club on a Sunday morning.

“A lot of people know about the benefits of squash, which can offer a really hard workout if you want it to, but there is also racketball, which is slightly easier in terms of a bigger racket face and a higher bounce.

“All the rackets and balls will be provided so people just have to turn up with their sports kit and trainers, and we will be able to facilitate whatever they would like to do on court, possibly even exercises without the rackets.

“Obviously both sports are played indoors, all the year around, and we are trying to generate more interest among people, both inside and outside of the club.

“We look forward to welcoming as many as possible who want to get active and give these sports a go.”

“These sessions are aimed at youngsters of all ages and abilities, but also their parents if

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For more details or to register your interest, contact Chris on (07884) 133775 or via email at squashcoachchris@gmail.com

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eMPlOyee SPOtliGHt stephen Burton-pye

A fundamentally important reason for Paycare’s success in giving back to the communities it serves, and in helping individuals and businesses enhance their health and wellbeing, is its very commitment to the people behind the scenes who make all the great things happen - its team. In this edition, Paycare shines a light on one of its Corporate Account Managers, Stephen Burton-Pye. Having been with the company for over 18 months, Stephen is passionate about the health and wellbeing agenda, and works with businesses - ranging from SMEs right through to 500+ employees - to make sure they are utilising the full range of services to protect the physical, financial and mental health of employees. Wellbeing services range from Paycare Perks (an exclusive platform which provides discounts on everyday purchases), counselling support and 24 hour access to a GP service, through to everyday healthcare including dental, optical, physiotherapy and specialist consultations and tests (plus much more). He makes sure 118

businesses are up-to-date with valuable resources, HR support tools, and conducts annual reviews, amongst many other things. About his role at Paycare, Stephen said: “Over the last 18 months I’ve really found my feet and have built great relationships with our corporate Policyholders. I love it, because as we’re a not-for-profit, our whole purpose is to help people become healthier and to live a better quality of life. That forms a large part of my role as Corporate Account Manager; I’m educating businesses about their role in helping employees become happier and more productive, as well as how they can reduce absenteeism and presenteeism. “Every spare penny not spent on enhancing our service offer is shared with the community, and to-date we’ve already donated an incredible £2.2million to a diverse range of projects and organisations - from grass roots sports teams and mentorship of young people, right the way through to LGBTQ awareness initiatives, domestic abuse charities and support of international campaigns such as Period Poverty.

looking forward to continuing to build on these successes throughout the next year and beyond.” As a passionate people-person, Stephen’s face might be recognisable across Wolverhampton and Sandwell, having previously been a primary school teacher for six years and a manager at some popular pubs for 12 years, including the Mermaid, the Oaken Arms, and the Dog & Gun. Having graduated from the University of Wolverhampton with a Degree in Drama, Stephen spends his spare time performing in the theatre, most recently starring in The Full Monty with the Bilston Operatic Society at the Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton. Seeing the fun in everyday, he’s been an actor for 23 years and usually finds himself in the comedic roles of a production. And if he’s not doing this, he loves nothing more than spending time with his nephew and goddaughter. For more information about Paycare, please visit www.paycare.org

“Winning the Community Champion award at the Express & Star Awards 2018 was a particular highlight for Paycare last year and we’re all wolverhampton west magazine

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Why family feuds over finances can teach us an

expensive lesson

She’s an ultraglamorous fashion designer married to the multi-millionaire founder of the Superdry fashion chain but it seems even Jade Holland Cooper can’t escape the fallout from a feud over a family inheritance. Will Jones, a solicitor at Wolverhampton law firm FBC Manby Bowdler, looks at what lessons can be learned from a private family row that turned into a very public dispute: Many families will disagree when it comes to inheritances but it’s usually only cases involving celebrities and the very wealthy that end up making the headlines. The root of this clash is the division of the estate of Rupert Cooper. He left his Grade I listed manor house and 415 acres in Suffolk worth in excess of £4.5m to his eldest son (Jade’s father), who was the executor of his estate, with a £50,000 legacy to each of his daughters and £100,000 to his youngest son. Jade Holland Cooper, who wasn’t a beneficiary of her grandfather’s will, was drawn into the disagreement between her father and a disgruntled aunt when one of the women posted a barbed remark on one of Jade’s social media posts, where she 120

documents her jet set lifestyle and eponymous luxury tweed brand. When drafting your will, it’s vital to be clear about how you are dividing up your assets including property, cash, artwork, furniture or jewellery, and why you are making those decisions. This is why it is particularly important to see an independent solicitor to advise you. A professionally drafted will enables you to clearly set out your wishes to make sure that your gifts pass as intended. If there is a particular person you wish to benefit to the detriment of others or someone that you want to exclude from your will, it is possible that the disappointed individual may bring a claim against your estate following your death.

advise on how best to implement your wishes in the will and other steps to protect your wishes. Although someone could still legally challenge a will if they feel they’ve been wrongfully excluded, there will need to be cast iron grounds for a claim before bringing a challenge in court and having involved a solicitor in making the will should go a long way to protect against a ruling in their favour. * If you’d like to know more about estate planning and wills, contact Will on 01902 392402 or by email at w.jones@fbcmb.co.uk.

With an independent solicitor, you can have a private and confidential discussion of the reasoning behind your wishes in your will – this will protect you and the gifts you want to make for a number of reasons. It minimises the possibility of your will being challenged because of a suggestion you have been coerced into making your will in a certain way. A solicitor will keep a record of your discussions as evidence of why you had chosen to make the gifts that you have. A solicitor will also be able to

Will Jones, a solicitor in the Wills, Probate and Lifetime Planning team at FBC Manby Bowdler

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WLTSC serving up

80 years of history at Newbridge Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis & Squash Club rounded off 2018 with a memorable night of nostalgia as they marked the 80th anniversary of returning to their Newbridge home. A celebratory dinner saw club members welcome three special guests, five-times Grand Slam doubles champion Frew McMillan, another former top player in Ted Beards, and former UK squash number one Anna Bullock (nee Craven Smith). Club President Ron Stevenson was Master of Ceremonies for the night, Rod Willetts delivered a presentation about his ongoing work to compile a history of the club and Frew himself spoke about his illustrious career to the 80 assembled guests. The club was marking eight decades on its present site, having started out in 1885 on the premises, moved to Albert Road in 1913, before purchasing the ‘Neville Lodge’ building and returning in 1938. “Frew delivered some tremendous stories about his tennis partners and rivals, and revealed a connection to Wolverhampton which was most surprising,” said Rod. “He was actually awarded a Doctrine of the City (by the University of Wolverhampton) ten years ago. “He also did a Question & Answer session for guests which was extremely interesting, including the question of why he was one of the first two-handed players. “’Because I used my mother’s full-size racket which was a bit heavy for a five-year-old’ was the response. “Overall the evening was a great success.” WLTSC has previously hosted a top-class tennis tournament during its history which included ranking points towards events such as Wimbledon, and attracted competitors from as far afield as South Africa and Australia.

Rod Willetts is enjoying compiling a history of WLTSC

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Frew McMillan signs an old tennis racket for WLTSC Operations Manager Marc Hughes

It was that event which McMillan won on three separate occasions, in 1962, 1963 and 1970, and he was delighted to catch up again with former friendly foe Ted, who also made it to Wimbledon in his playing days. Frew, who attended the evening with wife Sally, has since contacted Ron to pass on his appreciation. “We greatly enjoyed ourselves,” he said. “It was a treat for me to revisit the scene of my playing days and I could not quite comprehend the huge expansion of the Club. Most impressive! “We wish you and your Club the very best of good fortune in your attempts to further enrich Newbridge.” At the end of the night Frew and Sally were presented with gifts to mark the occasion by WLTSC chairman John Hollingsworth. Rod meanwhile is continuing his work to produce a history of WLTSC from its inception to the present day, with the intention of eventually turning it into some form of publication. “It is very time consuming but has been great fun and amazing to see how the club has progressed through the years,” he said.

WLTSC President Ron Stevenson and wife Judi Stevenson with Sally and Frew McMillan

wolverhampton west magazine

Where there’s a Will,

is there a war?

Many people believe that if they have made a Will their estate will be distributed in accordance with their wishes and their loved ones believe that they are stuck with its contents whether they think it fair or not. However, in both instances, that is not necessarily the case.

It is important that everyone knows what their rights are to assess whether they have a case to contest the Will.

Grounds to challenge? There are two principal reasons for challenging a Will. Firstly, you can claim that the Will was invalid for some reason. Secondly, you can claim that you have not been sufficiently provided for by the Will and bring a claim under the Inheritance Act.

Is the Will valid? If you believe that the testator lacked the necessary mental capacity, knowledge or approval in the making of a Will, its validity can be called into question. If undue influence was exerted by someone upon the testator, or the Will was not properly executed in accordance with the law, with two witnesses present for example, that can also void it. One common reason for contesting is when the

testator had been seriously ill and under the influence of medication in the course of palliative care. A typical challenge would be by a beneficiary under a previous Will which would be reinstated in the event that the last Will was proved invalid as the testator was not of sound mind when he made it. There is no statutory time limit for bringing a claim that challenges the validity of a Will. However, the Court expects claimants to act promptly and it is in your interests to do so to avoid assets in the estate being dissipated.

Reasonable financial provision? Only a restricted class of persons can bring a claim under the Inheritance Act - spouses, partners, exes, children (including those treated by the deceased as a child but not being a blood relative) and any person maintained by the deceased immediately before their death. If you fall into one of these classes and feel aggrieved by what

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was left to you, an application can be made for reasonable financial provision. Any application has to be submitted within 6 months of the grant of probate and therefore it is imperative you proceed expeditiously.

Act fast It is no surprise that money can ignite the spark that sends entire families up in flames. Will disputes can be both legally complex and emotionally draining. If you think you have grounds for complaint then it is important to seek specialist legal advice as soon as possible and act quickly, ideally before probate has been granted. Rebecca Neale of Rees Page’s Dispute Resolution Team, Associate Solicitor and accredited CEDR Mediator.



Acrimony can set in if a Will is not seen as even-handed. In times of grief, money can seem intricately bound up with affection and value, even when that’s not the case. Even the closest of families can implode following the death of a loved one if the Will does not contain what was expected. Anger can quickly turn into family feuds and legal proceedings.

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

www.reespage.co.uk

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

The Mount Hotel Tettenhall Chris Jewkes Fitness held their first ever black tie ball which turned out to be a fantastic success, with over 100 guests attending the glamorous event. Everyone enjoyed a fun and festive evening in the great hall with entertainment from singer/song writerÂ Ben Stancombe. This could be the first ball of many!

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Chris Jewkes, Margret Hickman, Carl Hickman Jason Guy, Aimee Parker Julie Maddox, Simon Maddox Sharon Beck, Chris Beck, Leah Redfern Specialists in helping people to retire early www.midlandifa.co.uk

5. Helen Duff, Matthew Duff 6. Catherine Hammond, Louise Lambert, Vickie Jones Sarah Houghton 7. Jemma Rannello, Sadie Simpson 8. Sharon Plevin, Jane Frisby, Jackie Green 9. Myles Baker, Olivia Price 10. Karen Price, David Price 11. Nick Hammond, Catherine Hammond, Sophie Jones, Andy Jones, Vickie Jones, Chris Jones 12. Roy Hodgkins, Julie Hodgkins, Robert Hodgkins, Joe Lucas 13. Ben Robinson, Suresh Bawa, Simon Preist, Rajesh Brigue, Arran Bawa 14. Chris Jones, Lauren Taylor, Terri Jewkes, Rick Cooper, Tracy Cooper 15. Keith Gater, Julie Gater 16. Jez Moxey, Babette Moxey 17. Glyn Harvey, Sue Evans wolverhampton west magazine

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Social Scene

Heaven at Casino 36 Wolverhampton Deborah Mitchell held Heavenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s awards party at Casino 36 on Sunday 18th November 2018. With the help of the wonderful team at the Casino it made for a fabulous event that was enjoyed by all fans and salons of Heaven. Delicious food and great music from Soul City 7 ensured everyone was kept well entertained.

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Some very happy people walked away with amazing awards.

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1. Ella Cox, Fraser Tranter, Beverley Momenabadi, Deborah Mitchell, Annie Fletcher 2. Royston Blythe, Nick Malenko 3. Sean Morgan, Rachel Morgan 4. Veronika Rucigaj, Blaz Rucigaj 5. Leon Breheney, Danielle Matthews 6. Harley Syass, Liza Ward, Millie Bullen 7. Navrina Kaur, Matthew Brooks, Liza Ward 8. Ella Cox, Emily Abbassi, Nicola Carrera 9. Fraser Tranter, James Thomas-Horton 10. Deborah Mitchell, Fiona Beech, Rebecca Ginty, Alisha Hickman, Francesca Morgan, Kelly Bennett 11. Chris Cox, Ella Cox, Rebecca Millward, Brandon Harrison 12. Manu, Dilys Chan, Kathy To, Ling Cheung, Veronica Poon, Kay Clark 13. Tania Glover, Kerry Boffey, Lizzie Boffey, Huw Glover 14. Jon Ranwell, Caroline Boydell, Julie Gayden, Neil Gayden 15. Kim Guest, Tina MIlls 16. Julie Emery, Sam Bailey 17. Oscar Mickams, Katrina Makarova wolverhampton west magazine

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Photographs courtesy of Andrews Creative

Social Scene 2

Park House Hotel Shifnal David Corfield Gymnasium proudly hosted a spectacular circus themed party to mark David Corfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 40th birthday. This electrifying night brought all the excitement and thrills of the big top. Over 400 Guests were greeted on the red carpet by an array of dazzling performers including fire artists, stilt walkers and sexy ringmasters.

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Following pre drinks circus-master took to the stage and opened the night with a fabulous performance by west end globe girls.Through the

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8 night guests were treated to candy floss shots whilst they enjoyed breath-taking shows by code red (fire eaters and angle grinding), cirque du solei style pole performance by Marco and the night closed with an electrifying set by word of mouth DJ Stuart Ojelay. A truly magical night enjoyed by all. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Ami Corfield, Dave Corfield Eleanor Powell, Abbie Jones Sebastian Haldron, Jess Devonshire Andrew Thexton-Pee, Joanna Thexton-Pee, Laura Davidson, Keith Davidson Hannah Baker, Hannah Cox, Alex Langston, Clare Wooton, Kerry-Anne Hadley, Charlotte Everall Ryan McLean, Clare Naylor, Lee McDonald Nev Sayers, Deborah Williams Louise Swinburne, Roy Swinburne wolverhampton west magazine

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Rudells Wolverhampton

Bissell each heard their names called, before then being presented with their prizes by Jon Weston, Managing Director.

The streets of Wolverhampton and Harborne were illuminated amongst the dark evening sky in the beginning of November as Rudell the Jewellers celebrated the launch of the 2018/19 Catalogue.

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Guests were invited to celebrate the latest mesmerising jewellery and watch collections to arrive at Rudells, whilst enjoying the festivities with sparkling Christmas cocktails and delicious canapes. The much anticipated diamond competition found a lucky winner at each showroom, both receiving a 0.80ct diamond worth over ÂŁ5000! Emotions ran high as winners Bella Kumar and Victoria www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

As well as witnessing magic before their eyes by Edward Hilsum, guests also had the chance to see themselves as caricatures, marvellously drawn by Richard Ellis.

5. 6. 7. 8.

Paul Probert, Lynda Probert Ian Bissell,Victoria Bissell, Jon (Rudells MD) Adrian Ward, Sioux (Rudells), Sharon Ward Rebecca Turner, Nick Turner, Jon (Rudells MD), Ed Hilsum Gill Higgins, Dan and Gary (Rudells) Sara Hunt, Philip Burrows, Glenn (Rudells) Angela Currall, Nick (Rudells) Gary (Rudells), Dharmender Khag,Tara Khag 129

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Michael Streete Foundation Ramada Park Hall Hotel A Fundraising Gala Dinner event was held on Friday 16th November 2018 to raise awareness of Sickle Cell Anaemia and other blood disorders. The registered charity was set up by Kereen Streete in loving memory of her brother Michael Streete who lost his fight to Sickle Cell at the tender age of 30. The event was well supported with over 350 attending and raised a magnificent total of over ÂŁ30,000. The title sponsor of the event was Casino 36 with supporting sponsors being Streete Project, Tile Choice, Porsche, Corbelli Wines, Thompson AVC and Ideal Homes. The luxury fun packed night consisted of a 3-course meal, raffles, auctions, performers, keynote speakers and an amazing after-party event at the Casino 36 bar. A massive thank you to MSFDN team, Kereen Streete and Hughie Campbell for hosting such an amazing event.

Sponsored by

1. (Mayoress) Elaine Hadley-Howell, Scott Thompson (Thompson AVC), Kereen Streete, (Mayor) Cllr Phil Page 2. Simon Priest, Laura Priest 3. Louis Kritikos, Glen Douglas, John Smith, Lloyd Russell, Dennis Symes 4. Louise Bradshaw, Mary Godwin, Barry Godwin, Alan Bradshaw 5. John Sheppard, Nicky Stretton-Sheppard, Richie Woodhall

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5 6. James Thomas-Horton (Casino 36), Kereen Streete 7. Kevin Beasley (Tile Choice), Kereen Streete, Hughie Campbell 8. Katie Round, Lia Griffiths, Lindsey Whitehouse, Amanda Jenkins, Lee Jenkins, Scot Griffiths, Adrian Bhella 9. Julie Gibbons, Mark Gibbons, Lynn Thompson 10. John Phillips, Nognuch Phillips, Soraya Sricha, Merl Hesson, Sean Shepherd, Dennis Shepherd, Thida Vitsuann, Soy Sudar, Soy Chote 11. Kevin Allan,Manu Chadha, Stin Singh, Paul Millar 12. Giuseppe Cacciatore, Daniella Tempest, Christina Cacciatore, Joe Cacciatore 13. Helen Hammond, Richard Hammond 14. (Michael Streete Foundation Team) Kereen Streete, Lyndsey McDonald, Hughie Campbell 15. Tony Martin, Richard Bowyer Richard Bowring, Simon Wallis, James Wallis, Tom Bowyer, Douy Brooks, Gareth Jones 16. Katie Hubball, Richie Hubball, Netta Hubball, Robert Hubball, Hayley Hubball, Robbie Hubball 17. Drew Sutton, Kay Waygay, Andy Gibbs, John Elston, Sam Nicholson, James Underwood, Gareth Thomas, Brent Walker-Drew, Shaz Uddin wolverhampton west magazine

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Social Scene

Molineux Wolverhampton Wolverhampton Law Society held their annual Dinner & Awards Ceremony on Friday 23rd November 2018 at Molineux Stadium. Solicitors were joined by accountants, estate agents, bankers and financial advisors at the glittering awards ceremony where as ever the awards were hotly contested and resulted in some very deserving nominees and winners. Entertainment was provided by guest speaker Welsh rugby legend Scott Quinnell and The Secret Cabaret band. Gareth Ruddock, President of the Wolverhampton Law Society, who chaired the evening, said: “Our annual dinner and awards acknowledges the important role played by the professional services sector in supporting the businesses of Wolverhampton and the surrounding area.

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“The evening was a great celebration of our city’s legal and professional services sector.”

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1. Scott Quinnell (Guest Speaker), Tracy Davis (Secretary), Gareth Ruddock (President) 2. Jas Tamber, Paul Ford 3. Jon Moss, Joe Martin, Will Jones 4. Eamonn Hurley-Flynn, Matt Reeves, Richard Mcloughlin 5. Judge Hughes, Judge Wilkinson, Judge England 6. Pardeep Jassal, Louise Dawson 7. Jason Hadden, Nick Burdon 8. Christina Green, Jagdip Bains, Peter Hall, Sonia Gaddu, James Wright 9. Scott Quinnell, Alan Chapman (Move Reports UK – Event Sponsor) 10. Aiden Reay, Sacha Hibbitt, Fay Collinson, Jake Brooke 11. Kelly Fullwood, Ron Adams, Naomi Candlin, Gemma Bowes 12. Scott Quinnell, Michelle Monnes-Thomas, Annita Howard, Gareth Ruddock 13. Reena Saini, Sukata Chand, Jas Uppal 14. Aman Kang, Iqbal Singh Kang, Beverley Rizzotto 15. Andy Ward, Amy Lawton, Paramjit Jassal 16. Andrew Wynne, Chris Hadley 17. Mayor Phil Page, Mayoress Elaine Hadley-Howell, Scott Quinnell 18. Stewart Bicknell, Annabel Grey, Phillip Haden wolverhampton west magazine

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Social Scene

Taylor Biddle Compton Taylor Biddle Opticians, Compton branch, celebrated the opening of their fantastic extension and refit, with a launch party on 29th November 2018. The practice was buzzing with guests enjoying fizz and canapes whilst viewing the latest, state of the art, optical scanning equipment which Taylor Biddle has significantly invested in, and a larger selection of frames. Advice was available from the audiologist and guests were able to try out the new lift! 1. Sophie Rogers, Hasan Akhtar, Donna Lloyd

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2. Olha Lac, Tracey Taylor

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3. Tracy Morris, Donna Lloyd 4. Andrew Bridges, Mark Davis 5. Henry Fletcher-Wilson, Abigail Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill 6. Royston Blythe, Tracey Taylor, Nick Malenko 7. Hollie Goodreid, Anne Rogers, Sophie Rogers 8. Alan Bridge, Ann Bridge 9. David Berriman, Alan Taylor, Sarah Hipkiss, Sybil Taylor, Tracey Taylor 10. Chris Clemence, Julia Spencer 11. Peter Maddox, Helen Maddox, Pat Maddox 12. Olivia Spencer, Julia Spencer, Felicity Annan, Charlotte Spencer 13. Mark Davis, Suzanne Davies 14. Cheryl Meredith, Karen Hewitt 15. Richard Maddox, Michael Kwiatkowski wolverhampton west magazine

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St. Dominic’s School Brewood

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St. Dominic’s Enchanted Forest Ball heralded the beginning of the Christmas festive season. Upon arrival guests were greeted with glasses of champagne.The Sports Hall was transformed into a glittering enchanted forest complete with chandeliers and the ever popular dance floor. Magical selfie mirror was on hand all evening to capture the evening highlights and magical moments. Raffle prizes, fun activities and competitions added to the fun and helped to ensure that a substantial amount of money was raised for the

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school funds and the charity House of bread in Stafford. A huge thank you go to ‘The Friends’ who made the night possible with months of preparation and organisation. 1. Rachel Duncan, Karen Westbrook, Neil Trubshaw, Laura Trubshaw 2. Joseph Prince,Vanessa Prince 3. Gavin Williamson, Joanne Williamson, Lisa Vickers, Clive Vickers 4. Peter McNabb (Headmaster) 5. Laura Howes, Kirsty McPaul, Lisa Crooks, Nigel Crooks 6. Terry Anderson,Tina Anderson 7. Sara Morris,Vanessa Prince, Shirelle Bower, Coriarna Morris (Friends/PTA) 8. Paula Jones, Karen Smallwood, Ruth Hopkins 9. David Smallwood, Paul Baynham, Paul Jones 10. Shaun Yates-Ward, Clare Yates-Ward, Barry Chambers,Vicky Thomas, Jonathan Gough, Jude Gough, Jenny Hartwright, Nicky Chambers 11. Room shot wolverhampton west magazine

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

Promise Dreams Ball

Porsche Centre Wolverhampton More than 350 people donned their floor-length gowns and bow ties as they came together to raise funds for Wolverhampton-based charity Promise Dreams. The city’s Porsche Centre was transformed into a beautiful ballroom, with more than 30 cars moved from inside the company’s Stafford Road base for the annual festivities. Ian ‘Porky’ Jones, of Wolverhampton Speedway, and signal 107’s Dickie Dodd helped host the night, with appearances from Carol Decker of 80s pop group Tpau and Wolverhampton-born presenter Suzi Perry. Other guests included Nathan Moore from 1980s band Brother Beyond, singer Kelly Wilde and DJ Leroy Lurve.

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Boyband East17, who scooped the 1994 Christmas number one with ‘Stay another Day’, also took to the stage alongside reigning Miss Black Country Alexandra Darby.

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1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18.

Ben Jones, Karen Jones, Ian “Porky” Jones Suresh Bawa, Beverley Bird Glen Jenkinson-Deakin, Sioux Jones Maggie Lawther, Brian Delvalle Michelle Burton, Mandy Catchpole, Julie Sharples, Rachael Cashmore Chris Hill, Nikki Driscoll Amanda Smith, Stephen Smith Scott Hutchinson, Emily Smith Alan Bradshaw, Louise Bradshaw Steve Walker, Sue Walker, Andy Morwy, Sara Yates, Helen Owen, Darren Owen, Judy Hill, Julian Hill Arran Bawa, Izzie Jones, Aysha Bawa, Paula Bawa, Suresh Bawa Chris Jewkes, Terri Jewkes Simon Priest, Suresh Bawa Clive Jordan, Kevin Mobberley Sally Mansell, Mary James Tara Wood, Leah Derry Rajesh Brigue, Sabine Medniece Suresh Bawa, Sarah Clifford, Graeme Clifford, Matt Ramsbottom wolverhampton west magazine

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Sandhills new flagship Nursery in Wolverhampton is

now well under way!

skills. Offering children the choice, enables them the opportunity to run around and build on their physical skills, as children explore their different environments it allows them to open up many learning opportunities especially as they begin to discover the differences between the indoors and outside.

Sandhills, Wolverhampton is on target to be open on time to offer an outstanding, warm and welcoming “home from home” environment inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach to education. Nursery will be over two floors and will also have a separate building which will house a Holiday Club to enable us to offer childcare facilities all year round for children aged from 6 weeks up to 11 years of age. Approach to Nursery will be along a private drive with plenty of on-site parking. As you approach Nursery

the first automatic doors will open allowing you entry to the reception area before staff open the further entry controlled interior door for you to access Nursery. We ensure that security is a top priority at Sandhills Nurseries and all areas will be covered by CCTV cameras. On the ground floor 4 children’s rooms will have access to a ‘free flow’ outdoor space which offers the children lots of benefits, as children are able to access the different environments freely, it helps them develop a greater independence. Free flow play allows children independent choices and the opportunity to develop at their own pace; they can decide to either spend their time outside participating in the stimulating activities or playing indoors. If children are able to choose where they would like to play and with what, this then develops their decision making

Also situated on the ground floor, will be the kitchen where all the children’s meals will be prepared by our cook, a library which will allow parents to ‘loan’ books, to share with their children at home, then return them and ‘loan’ further books, a children’s kitchen where they will be able to do regular cooking activities and the office, where the management team will be available. On the first floor, there will be a further 4 rooms, a reflections room, parents/meeting room, a further office for the Room Leaders and a staff room. Sandhills, which was established in 2005, currently has 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 either 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 and receive a pre booking discount on your fees then please visit our website www.sandhillsdaynursery.co.uk or telephone 01902 844450 for further information. 140

wolverhampton west magazine

Giving your child the best start in life. New Nursery opening in

Wolverhampton February 2019 We have other sites at Wombourne: 01902 326500 and

Discounted fee rate for bookings made before 31st March 2019. Telephone for further details: 01902 844450

Heath Mill: 01902 896317

Sandhills Day Nurseries are Rated Outstanding with Ofsted

www.sandhillsdaynursery.co.uk

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shcodsall@btconnect.com

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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. 142

iSky Media Limited www.iskymedialtd.co.uk daniel@iskymedialtd.co.uk For further details please call Daniel 01902 421764 or 07809 419290 wolverhampton west magazine

Prestigious rachael Heyhoe Flint cricket award won by Birchfield girl Malvern College has named Birchfield pupil, Grace Seedhouse, as the inaugural recipient of the prestigious Rachael Heyhoe Flint Cricket Award, set up in memory of the pioneering cricket star, who died in January last year. Grace was selected from dozens of talented young cricketers who attended highly competitive trials a couple of weeks ago at Malvern College. This is the first dedicated girls’ cricket scholarship offered by any school and will be made annually. According to one of the selectors, ‘Grace really stood out . . . She has beautiful timing and is calm under pressure. She has a fierce desire to learn and improve, which often makes the difference between a good player and a great one.’

Grace currently plays cricket at Worfield Cricket Club and plays alongside the boys in Birchfield’s 1st XI. Grace captained the Birchfield Girls’ Cricket team to become IAPS Midlands Champions, beating strong opposition on their way to the title. She also participates in the Shropshire County Cricket pathway that identifies promising talent in the sport. Lady Heyhoe Flint captained the successful England women’s side from 1966 to 1978 and was the first female cricketer to hit a six in a Test match. Her son, Ben Flint, a former pupil at Birchfield School and Malvern College, helped to launch the awards which are being partly funded by donations made after his mother’s death. “Mum would have been delighted that these awards are being set up in her name,” he said, “and I think she’d be especially pleased that Grace, the inaugural scholar is such a gifted young player.”

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Grace Seedhouse

Grace is thrilled at the esteemed award offered to her and hopes that “it will give me the chance to try to fulfil my dream of playing cricket for England.” “We are immensely proud of Grace and her outstanding achievements and congratulate her on being the first ever recipient of this new award”, said Mrs Sarah Morris, Headmistress, on hearing about Grace’s success. For further information please contact deborah Frost dfrost@birchfieldschool.co.uk 01902 372534

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Education

and Schooling

by David Williams – Headmaster of Tettenhall College expansion, as well as the less overt but still important need to take time out and relax with a book. Reading improves your wellbeing!

David Williams caught reading in the School library

It is about this time of year when my mother contacts me and asks me what I want for Christmas. For the past few years I have more or less done the same thing and sent her a selection of book titles that she dutifully orders and I receive on Christmas Day. The lack of surprise does not take away from the immediate pleasure of receiving nice hardback books nor the anticipation of the holiday time ahead actually reading them. Time spent away from emails, social media, the ‘noise’ of contemporary life simply to indulge in someone else’s thoughts and views or to immerse oneself in a story either fictional or real. I write of course as someone who, unlike teenagers today, was brought up pre-smartphone and whilst technological advances have changed the way in which we consume and buy books, it is not surprising that reading for pleasure is in decline among all of us but especially among young people. Reading is losing out to screens be it computer games, texts, websites and a study conducted by the National Literacy Trust in 2017 stated that only one-third of teenage boys in the UK say they enjoy reading. Although girls’ pleasure in picking up a book also drops off 144

in the teenage years – albeit not quite as markedly - the Director of the Trust says rather depressingly that “young people’s love of reading steadily declines from the day they leave primary school to the day they leave secondary school”. In the face of this worrying trend, the arguments to read are quite straightforward and I often quote my own Subject Leader of English who states that examination performance is enhanced by 50% for those pupils who take time to read outside of their lessons. This is not to mention the reading around the subject that is a staple for A Level success at the highest level in any subject and that to be ‘well-read’ ought to be an aspiration for anyone. We can also quote the benefits of an enhanced vocabulary, brain ‘exercise’ to improve memory and knowledge

It is perhaps therefore not surprising that we have also witnessed the closure of public libraries and a decline in their status within our schools. When I first trained as an inspector of independent schools, the library and its active use by pupils was a firm part of the inspection process - which is no longer the case today. I am pleased to note that as a 2 to 18 school, Tettenhall College has a real opportunity to preserve and prolong the many positive elements of primary education and reading is seen as a vital part of our curriculum throughout the School. Our recently refurbished library, which opened in September, is overseen by a fulltime librarian and sits in our Grade 2 listed building. It is a stunning addition to the School and provides a welcoming and attractive area for pupils, staff and parents. Yes, there is continual work to be done to incentivise and encourage pupils to borrow with author visits, themed weeks and competitions but we are already seeing a marked increase in its use and hopefully bucking the trend among our pupils. If you have reached the end of this article then you are probably someone who appreciates this need for us to act to encourage this important pastime. You can follow David on @tettcoll_head Twitter Children enjoying the School library

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WE SEE POTENTIAL

Sixth Form Information Evening Thursday 17th January

Year 7 Scholarship and Assessment Days 23rd, 24th and 26th January For September 2019 entry Contact: admissions@tettcoll.co.uk â&#x20AC;¢ 01902 751119 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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In addition to a rigorous academic education, one of the main aims of our school is to prepare pupils for their future ‘life in Britain’. The Department for Education states that schools should do this through their spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) development that includes promoting the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and respect and tolerance. So what better way to do this than visit the Houses of Parliament and take our Year Five girls to see first-hand how democracy works? So that is just what we did! Although Parliament is a working building, the girls were able to access different parts of the Palace of Westminster. They sat in on live debates in both the House of Commons and the House of Lords. The tour guide challenged the girls to think about how they can become involved with their UK Parliament and reflect on what the UK Parliament of the future might look like alongside their relationship to that change. So it was extremely fitting, that within the parliament gardens, the girls came across the statue of Emmeline Pankhurst. Pankhurst is one of our school houses, along with Seacole and Nightingale, chosen democratically by the girls themselves in a whole school vote. This was the perfect and pertinent reminder that everyone has the right to be heard and that it is possible to change the future of our country for the better. How empowering for the future generation! One of the lasting memories of the visit was the discovery of the most recent piece of artwork

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in the Houses of Parliament. One hundred and fifty years ago the campaign for women’s votes began, and ‘New Dawn’, an artwork celebrating all the individuals involved, has been placed in Westminster Hall, the oldest part of Parliament. ‘New Dawn’ is located above the entrance to St Stephen’s Hall, the site of numerous demonstrations, so that viewers of the artwork can literally stand in the footsteps of the hundreds of thousands of women and men who came to Parliament to fight for women’s right to the vote. New Dawn as a dynamic sculpture, with its lighting directly linked to the tidal River Thames running past the Houses of Parliament. The girls were empowered by the fact that they themselves are a part of the ‘new dawn’ in the constantly changing, unstoppable tide of change. New Dawn is the perfect tribute to the champions for liberty of the past, as well as an inspiration for future generations.

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ST. DOMINIC’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL BREWOOD

has trebled its number of applicants for Senior School entry following a successful transition to co-education It has been an incredibly busy start to the academic year for St. Dominic’s Grammar School. 11+ entry for next year has seen an influx of applications, with applications far exceeding the number of spaces available. For those considering 2020 entry, early registration is advisable. With growing pupil numbers, investment continues, ensuring the School is able to cater for all kinds of specialisms. In addition to the outstanding existing facilities of the Sports Hall and outdoor tennis and netball courts, a new football pitch and outdoor cricket nets are in development. Specialist teaching staff will also be joining the St. Dominic’s family, to help support the growing talent. Headmaster, Peter McNabb commented, “developing the whole child is at the heart of everything we do. It is vital that we are able to offer extra-curricular activities that

explore, challenge and nurture pupils’ talents. We want them to reach their full potential and that is why there is something for everyone to be involved in.” To ensure St. Dominic’s remains as inclusive and accessible as possible, a new fee structure is in place for September 2019 entry. Key entry points into the School will have a reduced fee. Year 7 will

cost an annual starting fee of only £7500, and Year 12 at £7,750. The Reception class will stand respectively at £5000 annually. The Year 9 Entrance Examination will take place on Monday 4th February 2019. Scholarship Assessments in Art, Performing Arts and Sport will also take place during this week. The deadline for applications is Friday 25th January.

The School will also hold an Open Day on Saturday 9th March 2019 between 10am – 1pm. This is a great opportunity to view the school facilities, meet the teaching staff and find out exactly what makes St. Dominic’s one of the leading independent schools in Staffordshire. If you are unable to attend this date, please contact our Admissions Secretary to arrange an alternative time on (01902) 850428 or via email: secretary@ stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk

For more information on the school please visit their website www.stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk or call 01902 850248. 148

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ST. DOMINICâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GRAMMAR SCHOOL GIRLS AND BOyS 2 - 18

YEar 9 EnTrancE ExaminaTion monday 4th February 2019 WholE School opEn morning Saturday 9th march 2019 reduced fees for key entry points into the school www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk T: 01902 850248 E: secretary@stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk

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The best start creates confidence at

leading school

The newest additions at a Shropshire school enjoyed a packed first term including a visit to Blists Hill, autumn walks, weekly swimming classes, French lessons and a trip to the pantomime.

Mr Martin Stott, headmaster at the Old Hall School, said the 2018 reception class had settled in extremely well and now couldn’t wait to get started on 2019. The Shropshire school was not only rated excellent in all areas in its most recent inspection but particularly praised for its “warm welcoming environment”. “Getting to know the new reception class and watching them start this new chapter in their schooling is one of my favourite parts of the job,” added Mr Stott. “Happy children learn, and they have the most chance of fulfilling their potential throughout their school years.

“That is why it is a key priority here to create a setting where they feel comfortable and confident to make the most of all the opportunities now available to them. “The 2018 class are a fantastic group of children. I have been very impressed at how quickly they are gaining in independence and showing an eagerness to try lots of new things. “We have a very strong early years team here and we provide a bespoke education which is all about getting to know the individual child, including their strengths and the areas where they might feel less confident. It makes all the difference.” Mr Stott said it helped to ensure children throughout the school made the most of all the advantages an allround education had to offer. Reporting inspector Mr Paul Spillane described the early years staff as an experienced “close-knit team” who had created a “warm, welcoming environment where children feel safe and have the confidence to try new experiences”. The school was also praised for its strong links with

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parents who were interested in enrolling their children at Old Hall. “Prospective parents receive detailed information about the school, and their children are offered taster days so that they have made the first steps towards forming friendships before they join the school.” Mr Stott said they were very committed to making parents and children feel happy about joining the school and that included children of other ages right up to year six. The Old Hall School also operates a number of bus routes to help with the morning school run including Tettenhall, Albrighton, Cosford and surrounding areas. The school is hosting an open day in the New Year designed for families with younger children including those joining school in September 2019. The Old Hall Reception Discovery Morning will take place on Saturday, February 2, 2019 from 10am - 12.30pm. Mr Stott also invites parents of children of any age considering a move to pay the school a visit and tours can be arranged by contacting 01952 223117 or enq@oldhall.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine

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

YEAR 7 ENTRANCE TEST Saturday 12th January 2019

JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN DAY Saturday 26th January 2019, 10am - 1.30pm

JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN EVENING Wednesday 27th March, 5pm - 7pm For information about how to register for our entrance test or to learn more about our open events please contact Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar telephone 01902 422939, email jam@wgs-sch.net or register online www.wgs.org.uk JUDGED “EXCELLENT” IN ALL AREAS BY THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS INSPECTORATE

TES INDEPENDENT SCHOOL AWARD WINNERS 2018

01902 421326

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Wolverhampton Grammar School Compton Road Wolverhampton WV3 9RB

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Tailor-made open events for

a tailor-made education

Parents considering an independent education for children from Year 3 to Year 6 need to add Wolverhampton Grammar School’s Junior School Open Day, Saturday 26th January, 10am1.30pm to their diary. The Junior School years mark a crucial period in a child’s development. During this time a child establishes the foundations for future learning; they begin to form firm friendships and become more independent and curious about the world around them. These are also years of fun and enjoyment as a child develops strengths and new interests. Wolverhampton Grammar Junior School provides wrap around care for your child. Our Junior School is sited at the heart of Wolverhampton Grammar School, providing safe, unique access to facilities, sport opportunities and

teaching expertise. The key focus on developing the whole child enables us to prepare them for their transition to Senior School.

place for your child to unearth new talent and discover skills that they didn’t know they had”. Dan Peters, Head of Junior School

Most of all, our Junior School is a happy place, full of fun and designed to bring out the best in your child.

Demand for Junior School places at the city’s leading independent school is high with numbers increasing year on year. The school’s Compton Road campus, located to the west of the City also provides school bus and coach routes attracting families from Bridgnorth, Penkridge, Stourbridge, Telford and Walsall.

Light, bright classrooms, small class sizes and expert teachers provide your child with access to a range of academic subjects and extra-curricular opportunities that other junior schools cannot match. A Breakfast and Late Club work alongside our usual curriculum which also includes the opportunity to study languages, team building, presentation and debating skills. “What is so unique about the Junior School? Quite simply, it is a caring family environment, situated right at the very heart of Wolverhampton Grammar School. It is the best

To register your interest, please contact Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar by email: jam@wgs-sch.net or tel: (01902) 422939. Alternatively, visit the website www.wgs.org.uk for more details.

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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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Winter

tYrEs

Winter tyres are not just effective in extreme snow conditions, they provide a decreased braking distance on icy roads, improved braking in wet conditions and provide better emergency braking on wet, icy and snow-covered roads.

winter conditions due to innovative winter tyre technology.

For these reasons, winter tyres are highly recommended for use in temperatures below 7°C, which in the UK is around 150 days of the year.

3. resistance to aquaplaning - The specific tread pattern design of winter tyres can disperse more water which reduces the amount of water between the road and your tyres.

Advantages of using Winter Tyres: 1. shorter stopping distances - with braking distance significantly reduced in snow, ice and wet conditions.

4. increased tyre life We offer a wide range of winter tyres and will be able to advise

2. improved performance and safety - more control in

you on the right ones for you. Not only that, whilst using your winter tyres, we offer a ‘Tyre Hotel’ service. Your summer tyres will be labelled and safely stored on our premises until you need them again. Contact us for further information. For more information on winter tyres, including our tyre hotel, please contact simon, mac or Hayley at HiQ wolverhampton on 01902 420234.

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Tyres • Exhausts • Brakes • Batteries • Servicing • MOTs www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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laNd rover

VELAR D240 HSE

sedUCed iN a HearTBeaT By THis ‘BlaCK BeaUTy’ by John Nash

Confession: technology scares me, so the offer of a test drive in a car that’s been hailed as the ultimate in geek driving experiences made me more than a little apprehensive. Touch screens (two of them), the general abandonment of cockpit switches and seemingly endless options of bespoke driving preferences, had this classic motoring enthusiast slightly overwhelmed… for all of two minutes. My motoring passion for more than 40 years has been fired by sporty ragtops designed in the 1960s, but not any more. Land Rover’s Velar successfully seduced me in a heartbeat. Fickle? Yes - and I want one. Would I trade my beloved, beautifully restored MGB for one? Probably. I’m not sure what beguiled me so totally, but I suspect it’s the

‘bubble effect’ of driving this D240 HSE model which enables the choice of machine and environment to be in harmony, while simultaneously delivering the comfort one would expect with a first-class airline ticket. The Velar majors on style driver ergonomics, the stitched leather (lots of it), its detailing, the retractable door handles, its uncluttered lines, and not least, its performance. But it’s practical too. There’s plenty of family space too and it’s not compromised by a humongous spaceship construction that makes parking on overcrowded roads a nightmare. Some have likened it to a stretched Evoque, but for me the concept is much more subtle. I applaud the pared-back approach, the aerodynamic screen raking and the uncluttered front end. On the inside it drips with style, like the cut of a fine suit that mysteriously makes an undefined statement, but leaves onlookers noting its quality. My test model in black, courtesy of Lancaster Jaguar Land Rover Wolverhampton, comes with a 2litre power unit with double turbos and a performance that will

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top 0-60mph in seven seconds. The auto gear change on the eight-speed box is seamless and urban fuel economy can return 50mpg, according to some independent sources. It’s hardly surprising some 82 motoring journalists from 24 countries voted this particular Land Rover offering World Car Design of the Year. Its road manners are perfect, predictable and sure-footed with impressive performance on the paddle change option. Off-road it’s a beast with enough electronic wizardry to adjust suspension wading and gearing to tackle even the most demanding terrain. Cleverly, the Velar suspension delivers enough road feel even on the most grudging terrain without tossing the driver into the roof. For me, what really matters, is whether you’re motorway driving, or navigating muddy, country lanes, the Velar has capability at its core.

I recall reading a Velar test drive in The Times back in the summer when motoring journalist Jeremy Clarkson had been let loose with the model. He too was smitten, musing that “people prefer working in IT to getting muddy,” so Land Rover delivered something different. And it’s true; everything about this vehicle appears ever so slightly different. As one Velar owner told me: “It’s just on another level.” If theses vehicles survive the onslaught of years, generations on they’ll be up there with today’s classics like the beefy Triumph TR5, the Jag E-Type and the big Healey. Genius motoring design examples are defined by their stance appeal and the Velar has it by the bucketful. As for the multi screen configurators, even I could understand the clearly presented array of symbols. The whole experience is a tactile one. And a little like Google hunting on a tablet, a single search

invites gateways to another wholly absorbing, but probably unrequired, knowledge level. What on earth can I drive now that eclipses this ‘black beauty’ experience? Winning Lottery numbers please… Lancaster Jaguar Land Rover Wolverhampton on the Penn Road is the stuff of luxury motoring dreams. The £14m flagship development offers a massive 18-car showroom area. With a barista bar serving complimentary coffees the experience in this airy environment is relaxed and the luxury on display, simply jaw-dropping. Up to 140 approved used vehicles are outside and there’s plenty of customer parking space too. Head of Business, Richard Roberts, says: ”Our investment means not only vastly improved facilities for our customers, but also more jobs for the local community. Our mentor programmes engage in bringing modern skills and attitudes to this premier site.” Operating on the four-acre site are 29 vehicle bays, parts stock and an aftersales team with a combined experience of 170 years in caring for Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles.

To book a test drive or for further details please contact Land rover on 01902 393200 or email info@wolverhampton.lancaster.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Mercedes-Benz GLE An S U V W i th St y l e

automatically-dimming driver’s exterior mirror and rear-view mirror. The 20-inch five-twin-spoke AMG alloy wheels deliver a smooth and stylish drive, as well as the illuminated running boards and grab handles which add an extra level of class. You can personalise your GLE with the selection of optional packages available, from the Tech package for £495 which includes augmented navigation and smartphone integration up to the Premium Plus Package for £4,295 which includes a range of added extras including a Burmester surround sound system and a panoramic glass sunroof. For those of you who love heading off the beaten track, the Off-Road package can be added to the GLE 450 4MATIC for £1,695 which includes additional off-road driving modes and downhill speed regulation as well as underbody protection which provides an underguard for the engine, together with reinforced underfloor panelling for the full length of the vehicle.

The new MercedesBenz GLE is coming soon and will be out to impress, showcasing an outstanding performance, the latest technology and undeniable style. In terms of power, the GLE 300 d 4MATIC features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, which produces 245 hp and 500 Nm of torque. The GLE 450 4MATIC is powered by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine, which has an output of 367 hp and 500 Nm of torque. This has the added enhancement of the EQ boost function which uses a 48-volt network to add 22hp to the car’s overall output.

control; and a third row of two seats (manually folding). Privacy glass, nappa leather upholstery and heated front seats make the cabin a truly relaxing place to be. The MBUX multimedia system with ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice activation comes as standard as well as two 12.3 inch display screens for media and driving assist displays so you’re always well connected. Out on the road you can drive with ease thanks to the host of features which include blind spot assist, active parking assist and traffic sign assist, as well as

Furthermore, the Towing package, only available in conjunction with the Premium package, includes Hitchtronic which provides a parking assistance system for trailers and increases towing capacity. The new Mercedes-Benz GLE is perfect for days out, trips away or even just the everyday. The new Mercedes-Benz GLE is available to order, with prices starting from £55,685 for the GLE 300 d 4MATIC and from £62,300 for the GLE 450 4MATIC. Enjoy every mile of the premium SUV coming soon to MercedesBenz of Wolverhampton.

Inside, for the first time the GLE comes with a seven-seat configuration which enhances the spacious interior. Available as standard on the GLE 450 4MATIC, and for an additional cost on the GLE 300 d 4MATIC, it includes electrically adjustable rear seats; additional USB ports; automatic four-zone climate

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Make this the year of adventure.

Whatever adventure you choose, we’ll have the SUV for you! Take a test drive with us today. Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton Penn Road, Wolverhampton WV2 4HD 01902 276977 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 325-108g/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 www.mercedesbenz.co.uk/WLTP

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Aerial Photography iSky Media 142 Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel Image Luxury Travel 63 Appliances Electrical & Gas Capital Appliance Centre 49 Bathrooms Carvers 19 39 Eaton Kitchens Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 41 Beauty Salons & Clinics BooshTox 101 Cosmetique Aesthetic Clinic 112 Heaven Skin Care 86/87 Olivias Beauty 98 Luminaire 93 Beds & Bedroom Furniture Cousins 10/11 Leekes 31 29 Merridale Furnishers Bedroom Wardrobes (fitted) Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 41 Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Merridale Furnishers 29 39 Val Hever Blinds Building Services & Contractors Three Pines 32/33 Butchers 67 Allan Bennett Poxons 67 Caravan Accessories Cannock Caravan Accessories 65 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists Touch Dry 62 Car Sales & Service Lancaster Jaguar Land Rover 163 Wolverhampton Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton 159 Chiropody & Podiatry Foot Therapy 113 Composite Doors 47 Doorsmart Computer Services Finchfield IT 61 Day Nurseries Sandhills 141 Delicatessen Corbelli 66 Dentistry Smileworks 96/97 Willows 2 Diet & Slimming Cambridge Diet 111 Domestic Appliance Sales & Repair Washer Wise 59 Domiciliary Care Services Quality Home Care 66 Driveways PEJ 53 Resindrives.co.uk 45

Education 143 Birchfield School 146 Newbridge School Old Hall School 151 149 St. Dominics Grammar School Tettenhall College 145 Wolverhampton Grammar School 152 Wrekin College 151 Electricians & Electrical Contractors Central Electrical Contracts 35 Estate Agents Berriman Eaton 13 Fashion - Retail Aristocats 94/95 Fencing & Gates Profence 57 Financial Advisors Midland Independent Financial Services 14/15 Fireplaces & Stoves Flaming Fires 23 Wolverhampton Fireplaces 17 Firewood Black Country Firewood 58 Fitness & Leisure Centres Chris Jewkes 105 South Staffordshire Leisure 85 WV Active 115 Furniture & Furnishings Cousins 10/11 Leekes 31 29 Merridale Furnishers Pargeters 34 Ralvern 42/43 Sofa Factory Outlet 21 Gaming & Entertainment Casino 36 72 Garage Services HiQ Tyres 155 Seisdon Garage 160 Garage Doors Garolla Roller Shutter Doors 56 Garden Design Boningale Garden Creations 55 Gardening & Landscaping Lealans Garden Centre 54 52 Potting Shed Health Care Cover Paycare 119 Heating Engineers RS Heating 59 Hospitals â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Private Nuffield 108 Hospices Compton Care 84 Hotels Park House Hotel 69 Italian Deli Corbelliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 66 Jewellers Rudell The Jewellers 164 T.A.Henn 9 Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit Bespoke Kitchens 25 Carvers 19 Eaton Kitchens 39 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 41

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Legal Services Manby Bowdler Solicitors 121 Rees 123 Letting Agents Berriman Eaton 13 Lighting Lighting R Us 35 Locksmiths Cummings Brothers 56 Loft Ladders Lyndale 23 Opticians Taylor Biddle 103 Orthopaedic Surgery Wolverhampton Hip & Knee Clinic 121 Painters & Decorators Kevin Jackson 59 Photography Andrews Creative 63 Crescent Imaging 63 Plumbing & Heating JB Plumbing & Heating 56 Property Maintenance Services S. Parton Building Maintenance 56 Racecourses Wolverhampton Racecourse 80 Reclaimed Timber Specialists The Wood Depot 22 Restaurants/Pubs 3 Hammers Bar & Bistro 69 Casino 36 72 Grill-It 77 Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 71 Oakley Arms 79 Park House Hotel 69 The Shrewsbury Arms 76 Wolverhampton Racecourse 80 Wombourne Tandoori 76 Rugs Frith Rugs 27 Skip Hire Wolverhampton Skip Hire 59 Stairs & Stair Components Lyndale 23 Taxis ABC Cars 61 Tennis & Squash Clubs Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis 117 & Squash Club Tiles & Interiors Tile Choice 7 Tyres HiQ Tyres 155 Vehicle Finishing Specialists Select 1 Automotive 154 Vein Clinics Simon Hobbs 110 Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 71 Wedding Venues Park House Hotel 69 Windows, Conservatories, Orangeries Tettenhall Windows 25

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Lancaster u nve i l s a vision of the future New 4.23-acre Lancaster Jaguar Land Rover retailer launches in Wolverhampton Since the very first Jaguar car was produced in 1935, the brand has pushed the boundaries of what’s possible. Inspired by the founder Sir William Lyons, every vehicle made is designed and engineered to combine beauty and performance like no other. This is why Lancaster Jaguar Land Rover Wolverhampton is proud to unveil its new state-of-theart, 4.23-acre showroom to the public. Lancaster’s unparalleled range of vehicles can now be experienced in a modern and spacious environment specifically designed to make our customers’ journeys as enjoyable as possible. Visit the new Wolverhampton site, and you’ll be greeted by industry experts passionate about the brands and cars on offer. Take a look around new vehicles in our 18-car showroom housing both Jaguar and Land Rover brands under one roof, and sit back and relax in our comfortable customer lounge, complete with TV, newspapers and magazines, complimentary snacks, and a fully-equipped barista bar. Wolverhampton is able to offer a personalised car-buying experience, with dedicated staff and over 150 new and Approved Used cars on display. Improved customer parking, a customer configuration lounge and dedicated handover bays mean a seamless Jaguar Land Rover

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journey. And that journey won’t have to end on the day we hand over the keys to your new pride and joy… Our Aftersales Team has over 170 years combined experience in caring for Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles. Our state-of-the-art workshop offers a drive-in service lane, while-you-wait servicing and complimentary Vehicle Health Checks - all undertaken by our manufacturer-trained technicians. With 29 vehicle bays and improved parts stock, we are fully equipped to keep you moving. Our investment means not only vastly improved facilities for our

customers, but also more jobs for the local community. Head of Business, Richard Roberts, said, “I’m excited to have been involved in developing the business from 60 persons to over 100 today. Our mentor programmes engage in bringing modern skills and attitudes to this premier site.” As one of the UK’s leading Jaguar Land Rover retailers, we’re delighted to have invested in our relationship with one of Britain’s finest automotive brands, and you can rest assured we are fully prepared to care for and maintain our highly advanced products for years to come.

The new showroom is now open at Graiseley Hill, Wolverhampton, WV2 4HQ. Get in touch to find out more - or why not pay us a visit? 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

wolverhampton west magazine

YOUR NEW JAGUAR L AND ROVER SHOWROOM IS NOW OPEN A VISION OF THE FUTURE Your new Jaguar Land Rover showroom comes to Wolverhampton and brings you a retail experience like no other. This bright new space is now open. Very open in fact. You’ll have more room than ever to properly explore each and every vehicle in the Jaguar Land Rover range – both New and Approved vehicles. And, just as importantly, you’ll have freedom to think without interruption in the comfort of one of our customer lounges. Our new facilities include: • Modern, light and spacious environment • Barista bar serving complimentary coffees and cakes • Relaxed customer seating areas • Interactive colour and trim display • Brand heritage display and merchandise area • Drive-through service area • Dedicated vehicle handover area • Improved parking with easy access • 29 bay workshop • Incremental parts & accessories stock We look forward to seeing you – and for you to see the Jaguar Land Rover range in a completely new light. Lancaster Jaguar Land Rover Wolverhampton Graiseley Hill, Wolverhampton, WV2 4HQ www.jardinemotors.co.uk/jaguar | 01902 915146 www.jardinemotors.co.uk/land-rover | 01902 915148 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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