Wolverhampton West Magazine

January 2018

Win a 3 course meal for two at The Cowshed Win tickets to see Hedda Gabler at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Win a 3 course meal for two including a ÂŁ50 free bet at Casino 36

January 2018

Delivered to areas of: Tettenhall, Perton, Wightwick, Compton, Pattingham, Burnhill Green, Ackleton, Badger, Chesterton, Seisdon, Trysull, Claverley, Wombourne, Lower Penn, Worfield, Hilton & Albrighton

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wolverhampton west magazine

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Contents

The local property market by Nick Berriman 10 Former Goodyear workers’ donate 1.5 million to Compton Hospice 16 18 It happened in Brewood Carver Wolverhampton Marathon Events 22 Rotary clubs join forces to eliminate polio 24 Crosswords & Puzzles 34 Rudells continue to deliver excellence as they celebrate their 80th anniversary 38/39 Codsall Community Arts Festival 46 Recipe of the month 48 50 Charity golf day at Oxley Park golf club 54/55 Gabriel’s spectacular success on the slopes Wolverhampton & Wombourne Half Marathon 2018 56 Wi-Fi woes 64 Gardening with Ann Winwood 66 Advertising enquiries Email: sales@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Gisella Wiley (Sales Director) Editorial/What’s On information Email: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Geoff Hall (Editor) Magazine Design Studio 28 Design & Print (www.s28.co.uk) Wolverhampton West Magazine Lytham Rd, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY Tel: 01902 744217 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Grand Theatre competition 68 70 The caring side of business A sizzling success for Allan Bennett 74 Wolverhampton Skip Hire receives 75 prestigious business award Win a meal for 2 at The Cowshed 82 Bilash food review 84/85 Win a meal for 2 at Casino 36, with a £50 bet included 90 Shrewsbury Arms food review 92/93 More competition success for Royston Blythe 98/99 Mind Babble 104 Amazing results with Heaven’s Bee Sting Facial 108 112/113 Women’s fashion: Savvy sale shopping 125 Tom’s Tip Social Scene 142-153 Golf Tip 156 Mercedes-Benz E-Class All Terrain 158 Index to advertisers 161

Congratulations to: Winners of Halfpenny Green Wine Estate competition to win 6 bottles of award winning wines Tony Reade, Claverley Kameron Balaggan, Finchfield Winners of Panto competition at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Kami Aujla, Wolverhampton Zarah Jones, Tettenhal

We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Wolverhampton West Magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, The Publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert or editorial. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Wolverhampton West Magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise - without the prior consent of Wolverhampton West Magazine Ltd.

*Total distribution 25,000 copies across 2 months

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

from the editor Happy New Year, readers! Or, as some say, happy New Year’s, or even happy new year. Which one is correct? Well, they all are. New Year’s is one holiday that’s hard to get wrong – just one sip of homemade punch on New Year’s Eve and I really rein in my pedantry and loosen my editor’s shirt collar. Speaking of merriment, I do hope you all had a fantastic Christmas, and – whether you’re reading this edition with turkey still stuck between your teeth or with the holidays already a distant memory – are ready to start 2018 with a bang.

First up: New Year’s resolutions. Ok, yes, almost all of us break them, but it would be churlish to omit them so here goes: I’ll kick things off with my own; I again resolve to eat less and, above all else, stop running my big mouth. You see, as Wolves FC stormed to the top of the Championship table this season I was heard to remark something along the lines of, “If they are top at Christmas, I’ll eat my party hat.” Happily my kind and loving family on Christmas Day allowed me to modify this self-imposed punishment, instead forcing me to eat a cake bearing the WWFC emblem. An improvement, but as a life-long Baggies fan, I choked it down all the same. I also promised to help cook Christmas dinner: yet another example of braggadocio gone bad. Anyway. Did you not reach full fitness last year despite having the best intentions? Then read on about keeping fit and healthy via personal trainers, gyms, improved diet, vision boards, weight management coaching and even hypnotism. It may seem like a wild idea to some of you but as so much of this magazine goes to prove, anything is possible: whether it’s in the case of Gabriel Adams’ Midas touch on the ski slopes or the staggering donation of £1.5 million to Compton Hospice. Are you feeling like you’re another year older? I am. Help is at hand though in the form of revolutionary 04

, My New Year s resolution is to stop lying to myself about making lifestyle changes

non-surgical face-lifting treatment machines at Luminaire Clinic and from Heaven’s famous Bee Facial, which my partner and Sales Director Gisella Wiley experienced first-hand recently. She looked radiant afterwards. Do you fancy a makeover to banish the post-Christmas blues? Look no further than our Fashion pages and check out the latest award for celebrity hairdresser, Royston Blythe. Then get set for an early Mother’s Day and a firm as a rock Valentine’s Day by way of our big splash on Rudells the Jewellers (they have rocks a plenty and are 80 years old now!) and from all of our wonderful news about food. Gisella and I are both gluttons when it comes to eating out, whether it’s Gluttons for Nourishment in Tettenhall, the two venues we review inside – The Bilash and Shrewsbury Arms – or the three locations from which our competitions come: Casino 36, The Cowshed and The Grand Theatre. But, moving on… it’s now time for some of you to up sticks, so check out top of the ladder estate agent, Berriman Eaton, and let them move you old-school or use their new on-line service, BE Essential. Or, as the old adage goes, ‘don’t move, improve’. As pithy one liners go it’s a gem, but reality can be tough so we’ve compiled for you everything you’ll need when staying put,

including: new/face-lifted kitchens, bathrooms, fireplaces, drives, windows and doors, orangeries and conservatories. Many of our advertisers have sales on at the moment, so shop locally for all types of furniture including beds, curtains, blinds, wallpaper and more. Beyond this there’s specialist carpet cleaning, plumbers, decorators, skips, and top-notch home security from Cummings. And last but not least: we’ve got articles on dentistry and health; lots on independent education; advice on pensions and investments; golf tips from 3 Hammers and South Staffordshire Golf Club; motoring from Lexus and Mercedes and 12 social scene pages. I can’t wait to get the new year up and running. In May Wolverhampton West will be eight years old. That’s 12,500 copies delivered per area, per month. 25,000 copies across two months in total is a lot of blood, sweat and shoe leather. And, since the magazine is still brought to you by the same team after all these years, we’re entitled to celebrate, so keep reading and keep your eyes peeled for our upcoming 100th edition in August. It will be a very special edition indeed. See you in March…

Geoff wolverhampton west magazine

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The Bespoke Experience Make it Personal, Make it Special, Make it your own… At Henns family jewellers we have been creating bespoke pieces for generations, for special occasions such as engagements, weddings and anniversaries. As well as remodelling once loved jewellery with beautiful content, we are giving the stones the opportunity to be worn again by the next generation. Seeing a client’s face light up when we present designs of what we can do with their piece of jewellery is very rewarding. Delivering the final item is indeed a special moment for us all.

Jewellery holds a lot of emotion, that why we’ll work with you to design a piece reflecting what you are trying to achieve. Perhaps you have a clear vision of what you are after but can’t find it anywhere. You might have seen a style or particular elements you like in a jewellery item which we could draw out to realise your ideal piece of jewellery. Guided by your preferences and combined with our expertise we will come up with suggestions and work closely with you during this process until your unique jewellery item is presented to you. We can work with stones you might already have or we can also source new stones from all over the world, anything is possible...

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Established 1985 09

The local

property market by Nick Berriman

It is easy to see from that where the current problems are coming from. With such a disparity between prices and incomes it is obvious that first time buyers will find funding extremely difficult. Our local market is not so extreme but the ratio is still far too high. This is the principal reason for the rising popularity of the rental sector. Certainly in our business, rentals has been a growth industry and one of the most successful parts of the firm, which is run by Andy Roberts and his team of four.

As I write this I have not had my Christmas but as you read it you have had yours. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hope we have both had good ones and that 2018 will be good to us all! I read a fascinating statistic recently. We have always understood that the ratio between average house prices and average wages should be between 3.5 and 5. If it is at the lower end it means that buyers have good purchasing power and the market will be strong. If it is over the highest figure the reverse is true and the market is facing problems. That was true for many years and the extraordinary figure I read was that in London that ratio is now 14.5! 10

Although the government has published some measures to discourage buy-to-let there is still strong demand. We have recently marketed two properties in Tettenhall Road. One with four self contained flats in need of some refurbishment and the other having three flats and in better condition. Both were vacant. The response when we made them live was astonishing. On one occasion when we had an open view there were twenty people looking round. Offers flowed in and eventually they both made in excess of the guide prices so we had happy vendors and hopefully happy buyers. Despite the horror stories we read about the state of the market we are finding strong demand but a shortage of available properties. This seems to be a common local problem and not particular to us. When saleable properties come onto the market there is ready interest but prices are still sensitive. Three properties where vendors were anxious to achieve a quick sale had asking prices reduced and once the new figures went on the internet there was immediate interest. The original prices were realistic but the reductions had a significant effect. Of course anyone can give a property away â&#x20AC;&#x201C; our job is to obtain the best price and to balance that with how long it will take to sell.

How much easier life would be if we knew what was round the corner. If we could predict reliably what the property market has in store we could prepare in advance. As ever we do not know what is going to happen. The dreaded Brexit is a factor. It is obvious that negotiations will be difficult and the EU are not going to roll over as some have predicted and whatever happens we stand in danger of continuing as a split nation. Whichever side one is on it has to be accepted that the referendum was not a resounding mandate and none of us really knew what was in store. I sometimes think our job is difficult but I would not like to be in the shoes of the politicians who have the responsibility of concluding the deal. This all has relevance to the property market. It depends on people having confidence and not living with uncertainty about the future so whatever the outcome let us hope that the future will be decided without undue delay. On that dubious note I would like to thank all our excellent staff for their hard work and commitment during the last year, to encourage them to do the same in the coming year and to take this opportunity to wish all our clients and readers everything that is good for the coming year.

wolverhampton west magazine

WIllOW END, 67 OAkEN lANES, CODSAll, WV8 2AW An outstanding, individually designed family home standing in a highly regarded position. The property needs modernising but offers enormous potential to create a personalised residence. Hall, cloakroom, lounge, sitting room, dining room, breakfast kitchen, garden room, laundry, four double bedrooms, dressing room and two bathrooms. Wide frontage, excellent garden and views. (EPC: E).

OFFERS AROUND ÂŁ485,000 VIEWING: Please contact the Tettenhall Office.

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

www.berrimaneaton.co.uk 11

We Have Proved How Essential We Are! In its first twelve months www.be-essential.com has gone from strength to strength! Outperforming all of our targets and providing an exceptional level of service for our truly different way to sell your property, we have saved our sellers a substantial amount of selling fees in the process!

agency valuations. The property completed at a price of £20,000 in excess of our asking price - i.e. £35,000 over and 117.5% of the high street agents’ recommended sale price. Not only did this prove how effective our marketing is but, as with all our sales, the owners hugely saved in fees.

Our statistics speak for themselves! In our establishing year we have achieved an average of just over 98% of asking prices and have agreed just over £11,250,000 worth of sales.

We have listened to feedback from our customers and, as a bespoke outfit, we have been able to adapt to the market requirements - most recently redesigning our website to offer more options for our customers to support our belief that the www.be-essential.com property online agency is the future!

A particular highlight was a house that went on the market for £15,000 more than two high street

If you’re not sure about moving away from a traditional high street agency read on!

A small selection of properties

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• I am emailing to thank you for your help with the purchase. You were always very helpful and polite So, thank you. • I thought the service for the sale of our house was very good and the solicitors used were most impressive. • We were really happy to be one of your first clients and you made the sale of our house very easy. Both Mel and Katie were extremely helpful with any queries we had and Raj who dealt with the legal side was great and he ensured we were kept up to date as the sale progressed. The teams friendly nature made us feel very at ease. We would 100% use be-essential again should we wish to move.

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Tettenhall

City Centre

Bridgnorth

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Wombourne

Bilston

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Independent living with ease

at Thorneycroft, Tettenhall

Award-winning housebuilder, McCarthy and Stone, specialises in creating stunning collections of ideally located, low maintenance apartments, thoughtfully designed to ensure you or a loved one will enjoy retirement to the full – and Thorneycroft in Tettenhall will be no exception. The Retirement Living Plus development on Wood Road will offer its homeowners a beautiful selection of 58 high quality, privately owned properties, exclusively for the over 70s. What’s more, with the opportunity to benefit from friendship and companionship if they choose to, and privacy when

they need it, life at Thorneycroft will be independent living at its best. With a community of friendly neighbours, support when needed, and all the gardening and exterior maintenance taken care of, downsizing to a McCarthy and Stone development can be truly life changing. The stylishly designed homeowners’ lounge will provide the perfect setting for a rich variety of social events available for retirees to enjoy, including coffee mornings and movie nights, and the spectacular landscaped gardens provide an idyllic retreat when catching up over a cup of coffee and soaking up the sunshine. In addition to the homeowners’ lounge, facilities at Thorneycroft will include a fabulous bistro, a lovely place to meet up with other homeowners and perfect for those days you don’t want to cook for yourself. The bistro serves breakfast through to afternoon tea, with a pre-order three course lunch menu served daily. Thorneycroft will also have its own luxury guest suite should visitors

come to stay. The development will also benefit from its very own Estate Manager, ensuring the smoothrunning of the development, a security entrance system, plus 24 hour emergency call points – providing added peace of mind for homeowners and their families. Situated in the heart of Tettenhall, Thorneycroft is less than a quarter of a mile from the high street shops with a bus stop directly outside offering homeowners the freedom to pop into the village centre or further afield under their own steam. What’s more, McCarthy & Stone have recently been awarded a 5 star customer satisfaction rating from the Home Builders Federation for the 12th year running.

With prices starting from £223,950 for a one bedroom apartment and £312,950 for a two bedroom apartment, anyone interested in Retirement Living Plus in Tettenhall is invited to call 0800 882 1848 or visit: www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/thorneycroft 14

wolverhampton west magazine

S E NO LL W IN G

Stunning apartments now selling in Codsall & Tettenhall

BRINDLEY GARDENS Duck Lane, Bilbrook, Codsall WV8 1FL

S E NO LL W IN G

Designed exclusively for the over 60s, this collection of one and two bedroom apartments set in the popular village of Codsall is located less than a 500 feet from the shops. Brindley Gardens is now selling off plan and you can make an appointment to view plans and prices at your home or a location of your choice. With a House Manager, a beautiful homeowners lounge and landscaped gardens this is the perfect time to discover more about this exciting new development in Codsall. 1 & 2 bedroom apartments available priced from £194,950 to £314,950*

THORNEYCROFT Wood Road, Tettenhall WV6 8PR Designed exclusively for the over 70s, this collection of 58 one and two bedroom apartments set in the heart of Tettenhall is located less than a quarter of a mile from Tettenhall High Street. Thorneycroft is now selling off plan and you can make an appointment to view plans and prices at your home or a location of your choice. With an estate team on site 24/7, a fabulous bistro and homeowners lounge this is the perfect time to discover more about this exciting new development in Tettenhall. 1 & 2 bedroom apartments available priced from £223,950 to £379,950*

To book an appointment please call free on 0800 882 1848 or visit mccarthyandstone.co.uk/westmidlands *Prices correct at time of print. Thorneycroft & Brindley, Wolves West 218x140 FP.indd 1

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

LP-WolverhamptonWestMagazine 12/12/2017 09:18

Former Goodyear workers’ donation

to Compton Hospice to total £1.5 million that they wanted to do a project with Compton Hospice because Compton is part of Wolverhampton and the Black Country’s community. Compton has supported our members, and their families, over the years. This donation is all about creating a proud living legacy, and there is no greater place to do that than with Compton Hospice. The people who have lost their jobs feel a great sense of pride that they are supporting their local community.” Reacting to the news Compton Hospice CEO Claire Marshall commented: “This news is absolutely breath-taking; £1.5 million is a phenomenal amount of money! This donation means that we get the Community Coordination Centre of our dreams. It means we are able to transform our services going forward, and it means putting patients and families at the heart of everything we do.

Front - Cyril Barrett, Chairman of the Unite Union Goodyear branch, Claire Marshall, Compton Hospice CEO with Barry Malia, Paul Baugh & Mark Jenkins, former Goodyear employees and representatives of the Benevolent Fund

On Friday 15th December it was announced that a donation from former Goodyear workers to develop a state of the art Community Coordination Centre at Wolverhampton’s Compton Hospice, which aims to improve access to care for patients, will now total £1.5 million. Members of the Unite Union Goodyear branch visited Compton to make the announcement that the donation, funded by surplus 16

monies from the 5/344 Transport & General Workers Benevolent Fund, will now total £1.5 million. Chairman of the Unite Union Goodyear branch Cyril Barrett commented: “On behalf of the trustees and management committee of the 5/344 Transport and General Workers Union I am extremely proud to say we will be putting £1.5 million into Compton Hospice Community Coordination Centre project. “The project has created such a positive response and a real sense of pride from the workers and so we want to make sure that this project is up and running and that all costs are covered. Mr Barrett added: “The members of the Transport & General Workers Union were very clear

“What’s even more wonderful for me is that this donation has come from local people who are part of our community and who have been supporting Compton for decades. This project means that they are leaving a fantastic legacy and that they will continue to support their community for many more decades to come. It’s very exciting for all of us here and we can’t quite believe it. It is the best gift we could have received for Christmas.” The Compton Community Coordination Centre project will see the creation of a brand new building from which the hospice will coordinate referrals to its extensive range of services including inpatient care, care in the home, day care facilities and emotional spiritual and social care. With all services being coordinated from one central point the centre will create a single point of access making it easier for patients, families, carers and healthcare professionals to access support from Compton Hospice. The announcement follows news that planning permission for the Coordination Centre has been granted with work due to commence in 2018. wolverhampton west magazine

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I t happened in

Brewood

Dean street

Researcher and author Paul Robinson has just added another book about Dudley to his string of local history titles. ‘Tales of Old Dudley’ follows in the same vein as his other recent books about Brewood and Penkridge. These recount dozens of fascinating stories from the Victorian era, including accidents on the roads, railways and canals, and shocking stories of violence and murder. Other chapters deal with living conditions and petty crime as well as notable and more light-hearted events. These short passages from ‘It Happened in Brewood’ feature a little from the section about horseracing and a typical assault case: The race organisers no doubt tried to pitch the event as a cut above

Tong Castle

other race meetings, where crime in the form of pick-pocketing, illegal gambling and drunkenness were often encountered. In the early years, the event was said by the Wolverhampton Chronicle to be “attended by a large and respectable company, desirous of enjoying the pleasures of the turf free from the inconveniences which too frequently intermingle with them when their locality is nearer to populous neighbourhoods”! In 1836 the races were said to be rapidly gaining celebrity, but the advent of railways, the invention of the electric telegraph and the publication of newspapers such as the Sporting Life put paid to any further expansion; people soon had easy access to all the major racecourses, rather than having to struggle to out-of-the-way venues such as Brewood, and results were conveyed to punters across the nation as they happened. Nevertheless, Brewood Races continued to attract fairly large crowds as well as being patronised by well-known members of the local community in their capacity as owners, riders, sponsors and spectators.

In 1864, William Hickin was fined 5 shillings for violently assaulting his wife, although it could easily have been Mrs Hickin who was in the dock. Mrs Hickin was correcting one of her children when her husband interjected and, after some words passed between them, he grabbed her by the hair and dragged her about the house. Mrs Hicken managed to grab the kitchen poker to beat him off but he wrested it from her and hit her three times across the back, before running off and locking himself in his workshop. The enraged woman proceeded to throw house-bricks at him through the workshop window, but getting too close on one occasion, he struck her across the temple with the poker and she fell to the ground stunned. With typical tonguein-cheek style, the Staffordshire Advertiser headlined their short report of the trial ‘A Loving Couple’. In addition to these collections of newsworthy stories, Mr Robinson has also written a history book about the village of Coven and solved a century old mystery in another of his books about a Dundee merchant. All are available online at www.lulu.com or on Amazon. Also available at the Raynbowzend Gift Shop in Brewood. wolverhampton west magazine

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and 19

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Don’t let Banks

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I have recently been introduced to a new client who was looking for advice regarding his final salary pension.

who has worked for a bank all their adult life could be expected to know if the company he had his mortgage with is providing him with a competitive rate however, I was staggered to find that for the last few years he has been paying a standard variable rate of 5.49%.

Part of our advice process is “getting to know our client” and to do this we complete an in depth financial fact-find to ensure we know exactly where we are starting from and more importantly where we want to go.

When I questioned this rate, he was under the impression that he was in a fixed rate deal and would suffer redemption penalties if he moved, however, on reviewing the annual mortgage statement, it was indeed a variable rate with no tie-ins.

This particular client has been employed by one of the major banks for almost 40 years and is looking to retire early next year. Now you may think that someone

To put this into perspective the interest he was paying each month on a £134,500 mortgage was £615.34 per month or £7,384 per annum.

One of his main concerns is that when he retires he needs to repay the mortgage debt, however, the maximum tax free cash sum from his final salary scheme he would receive is £111,831 which would leave him with a shortfall. He has no other savings that he can use towards the shortfall. His options regarding his pension are to take a full pension of £24,230 p.a. which he feels he could survive on or, take the tax free cash together with a reduced pension of £16,777 p.a. which he feels he would struggle to live comfortably on as this income has got to support himself and his wife. We then discussed his options with one of them being to transfer wolverhampton west magazine

his pension benefits from the Final Salary Pension Scheme to a Personal Pension. The transfer value being offered by the bank is £762,766 however, if this route is taken, all guarantees are lost and he would be dependent on future investment returns. This decision is not one to be taken lightly and indeed it is financially the biggest decision he will ever make in his life – does he opt for a guarantee or take control and responsibility of his retirement fund. We then looked at what was important and the financial needs that would come into play if the pension was transferred. The following points were of significance: If transferred the pension fund of £762,766 would give a tax free cash facility of £190,691 which is more than enough to clear the outstanding mortgage balance and he would have money to spare. When he dies the full value of any residual pension fund is inherited by his wife or his children if she died first. If it passed to his wife then on her death it would pass to the children.

The benefit of this is that, provided the investment growth achieved is in excess of 1.89% net of charges, the amount of tax free cash available would be greater. This does bring me back to where I started because the interest payable for the year is only £2,542 or £211.84 per month. Compare this to what he is currently paying and the saving is over £5,000 a year in interest. Fortunately, we were in a position to save him this money but how many people out there are paying ridiculously high rates of interest to line the pockets of their bank or building society? The lesson here is regularly review your finances and make sure you have an Independent Financial Adviser check that what you have is appropriate for you. Here’s wishing all of you a happy and prosperous 2018!

If death occurred before his 75th birthday the whole pension pot is paid out tax free which would certainly become a family legacy. If transferred he would have the ability to take a greater income until the state pension kicks in on his 66th birthday. On this occasion the client felt that transferring would be perfect for him and as long as he is sensible and follows advice then I certainly agree. This then bought me on to the subject of his mortgage. He could take the tax free cash now and repay the outstanding balance or he could consider remortgaging to a 5 year fixed rate mortgage, a current deal available is 1.89%, leave the monies invested and then review and in all likelihood repay in 5 years’ time. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

John Webb

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

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

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

www.midlandifa.co.uk Throughout the year Midland Independent hold investment seminars with industry experts. If you would like to attend please email: info@midlandifa.co.uk 21

Carver

Wolverhampton Marathon Events Call Print who sponsor the Walk in the park: Angel Springs for providing all the bottled water to keep the competitors hydrated whilst they take part; Greggs the Bakers who supplied the goody bags for the competitors. The atmosphere at the start and in the park was enhanced by Dicky Dodd and his team from Signal 107. We feel that this event also 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.

On Monday 4th December the organisers of the 20th 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.

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. Banksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s who sponsor the Banksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 10K: Cousins furniture who sponsor the Cousins 20K cycle event: NJB sports & Physio for their continued sponsorship and assistance with all injury and issues arising from taking part:

The organisers have listened to feedback and looked at competitor trends and have decided to remove the Marathon from the event list. Half Marathon and 10K are more popular distances and it is hoped to promote them even more. Also cycling is so popular now it was thought appropriate to concentrate resources into the 10K and 20K cycling events. Next year the date has been set for SUNDAY 2nd September 2018.

ÂŁ16,000 was shared between Compton Hospice, Sunnyside Kennels Coven, Wolverhampton Samaritans and The Mayoral Charity Fund. Chair Mary Harding reflected; it seems an age away when on September 3rd over 2000 people took to the streets of Wolverhampton, running and cycling in their chosen event and all helping to raise money for charity.

www.carverwolverhamptonmarathonevents.co.uk 22

wolverhampton west magazine

Divine Designs at Carvers

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Littles Lane, Wolverhampton, WV1 1JY Tel: 01902 577080 www.carvers.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton

Rotary clubs join forces to eliminate polio Green, West Park, Wednesfield Community Centre and the Bert Williams Leisure Centre, Bilston.

The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton together with the other four local clubs and the two neighbouring clubs, mounted a joint effort to raise public awareness in support of Rotary International’s 30 year campaign, to rid the world of the scourge of polio which is nearing a successful conclusion. In 1985, when the campaign was launched there were over 1000 new cases somewhere in the world every day, leaving children paralysed and some having to spend their lives in iron lungs, because one of the many tragic effects of contracting the disease was to leave them unable to breathe unaided. Since then, Rotary has contributed more than £1.5 billion and countless volunteer hours to immunise more than 2.5 billion children in 122 countries to fight the disease. As of this month December 2017 there has only been a total of 15 new cases this year, these occurring in Pakistan and Afghanistan and one in Nigeria, which was quickly prevented from spreading by an extensive immunisation effort. Rotary’s efforts are supplemented by generous financial support where donations have been matched at the rate of 2:1 by the Bill and 24

Melinda Gates Foundation, and by working in partnership with the World Health Organisation. With the aid of local schools, voluntary support groups and the City of Wolverhampton Parks Service, 50,000 purple crocus were planted in 5 public spaces around the city. The Wolverhampton Club planted 10,000 of these in Bantock Park when the Mayor & Mayoress attended, with the help of local school children and the Bantock Park support group. The remainder being planted throughout a week of planting by the other clubs at Tettenhall Upper

The purple crocus is the worldwide symbol of the mass immunisation programme. When a child is immunised, they have a purple dye painted onto their small finger nail to show they have received the vaccine. This dye enables the Rotarians and the World Health Organisation nurses involved in physically administering the vaccine, to ensure that no child has been missed in the following days before the dye starts to fade. When the crocus emerge in spring, they will be a lasting reminder of the part Wolverhampton has played in this vital effort. After the last incidence of polio has occurred, there will need to be 3 more years of funded surveillance to ensure that no new cases have arisen, and then the day will have come when this dreadful disease will have been banished forever. The Rotary Clubs involved in addition to the Wolverhampton club, were Bilston and Wolverhampton West, Tettenhall, Wednesfield, Willenhall, and Wolverhampton St. Georges.

Rotary is the world’s largest voluntary service organisation, open to men and women of all ages. For further details visit www.rotarygbi.org, where enquirers will be directed to the local club. wolverhampton west magazine

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Stunning solid oak furniture at

unbeatable prices

Located just outside Wolverhampton city centre, Merridale Furnishers boasts a beautiful range of solid oak furniture including Rustic, Willow, Roma, Chunky and Burford Oak, all in varying shades and luxurious styles to give your home décor the ultimate modern look. Whether you’re looking for bedroom, dining or living room furniture that’s easy on the eye and built to last, their friendly sales team are sure to be of service. Merridale’s solid oak range is also ideal for people who are looking to downsize their home; small families, couples or individuals looking to enrich their smaller dwelling with high-class furniture for any room. For those who dream of the perfect bedroom, Merridale Furnishers endeavour to make dreams a reality with top notch solid oak 26

beds, wardrobes, bookshelves and cabinets, all available in a glorious range of classic American and modern styles. From fabulously finished designs with a British country feel to dark rustic Welsh style bedroom sets with a touch of sophistication, customers are sure to find what they’re after at Merridale. Choices in finish range from white painted, light and medium to dark to give the dream bedroom a high quality appearance and positive, homely feel. It goes without saying that the dining room is an equally important part of the home; a place where meals are enjoyed and daily adventures exchanged across the table! From busy family homes where time is at a premium, to smart and sophisticated couples’ pads where entertaining is a regular occurrence, there’s plenty of choice to suit all homes at Merridale Furnishers. What’s more, they even go the extra mile

to ensure that the dining sets are assembled to last and stay looking good for many years to come. Merridale’s motto is that you don’t have to be made of money to have high standards; everyone deserves the best quality when it comes to kitting out their home and feeling fabulous. With a polite and professional customer approach coupled with an efficient delivery and assembly service – scheduled at a time to suit you – Merridale Furnishers prides itself on being one of the finest and most reliable furniture retailers in the Midlands.

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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...

DIY SOS

Exhibite d at Grand Designs Live Show

r inte

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Dreamland now has their biggest ever sale on, with nearly every mattress, Divan, Bedframe, Sofa bed and headboard in store heavily reduced.

This is all because Dreamland provides their customers with the best suited bed for them at the most affordable price possible. Dreamland is open 7 days a week and located minutes from the Merry Hill shopping centre, with free to use customer car park.

Since 1976 Dreamland has been the home of luxury beds, bed frames and headboards perfect for creating beautiful bedroom aesthetics. Dreamland prides its self upon its choice, offering an extensive range of beds, mattresses and bedsteads with everything from a wooden, upholstered or metal bed frame finish from single to King, and even larger Super-king sizes. Everyone at Dreamland know how difficult a decision purchasing a new bed can be, that’s why their Staff have extensive product training making sure their product knowledge is second to none. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Open 7 days a week. Dreamland, 23 Mill St, Brierley Hill, DY5 2RG 01384 74166 www.dreamlandbedding.co.uk Find us on facebook: “dreamland bedding centre” 31

Fit not Thin in 2018

By Sarah Davey Many people will make a resolution to lose weight in 2018. To be fair lots of us made the same resolution on January 1st 2017... and 2016... What if we’re looking at it all wrong? What if a better resolution was to get fit in 2018? Fit not thin. I’m not saying you shouldn’t aim to lose weight. If your knees buckle when you try to stand up and you have a family history of cardiovascular disease maybe you should. But maybe that family history of cardiovascular disease should prompt you to think more strategically. Obesity is linked to cardiovascular disease but that’s not the whole story. Lack of fitness also plays a role. Tackle the fitness and a side effect may be that you also tackle 32

the obesity. And seriously, getting fit is way more fun than dieting. A friend once told me about the shift in her mindset when she decided to focus on fit not thin. “As I got fitter I became more than I was before. Whenever I’d tried to lose weight in the past I’d focussed on being less. That was the main difference for me.” Personally I think that if society paid more attention to fitness rather than weight loss, we’d actually have less obesity. If we (especially women) focussed on how far we could run or cycle, or how many push-ups we could do, we would naturally be more active and less obese because focussing on fitness actually makes weight loss easier. The fitter you get the more you view food as fuel and the more you want to eat high quality nutritious food because it helps you get fitter. It’s positive reinforcement. And let’s be honest, society is horribly biased against fat people. But if fitness was the Holy Grail we wouldn’t automatically assume that not-thin equates to not-healthy. We need to stop being obsessed with

weight-loss and thinness. If we get involved in more conversations about fitness rather than how to lose extra pounds, our fat-bias would diminish and maybe more overweight people would feel comfortable joining the gym or that exercise class they always fancied. Both fat and thin people would be healthier if they aimed for fitness rather than thinness. Even if overweight people stay overweight weight, they still get all the protective benefits of exercise. And there are many thin people who are terribly unfit and are at risk of cardiovascular disease. Thin does not always or even often equate to healthy, in spite of popular myth. It’s not an either-or situation but if you only aim to end 2018 thinner you might succeed, you might not, but you’ll still be unfit. If you aim for fitness you will probably lose weight, gain confidence, friends, a new skill or two, and in the words of my friend be more than you were by the end of the year. I know which route I’m going to take. wolverhampton west magazine

New Year’s Resolution: Save Money and Help the Planet LED bulbs may be costlier to buy, but you could be up to 90% more energy efficient. With an impressive average lifespan of 50,000 hours, LEDs beat a traditional bulb’s average lifespan of 2,000 hours. Although LEDs may be costlier, with an average £2.50 annual energy cost per bulb as opposed to £20.00, it’s clearly the wiser, more efficient choice. If that’s not enough to persuade you, then we have a few more benefits that might change your mind. Longer Lifespan: If you were to leave your lights on 24/7, you’d have over 5 years of continuous operation. Leaving an LED bulb on

for 8 hours a day would give you an estimated 17 years of operation. Energy Efficient: LED lighting is today’s most resourceful way of illumination, with an average efficiency of 80-90%. This means, about 80% of electrical energy is converted to light, while 20% is lost to other forms of energy, such as heat. Traditional bulbs are the opposite, which is why they get so hot! Eco-Friendly: LED bulbs are free from toxic chemicals and they are 100% recyclable. Also, one LED bulb can save the materials and production of 25 incandescent light bulbs. This will help you to reduce your carbon footprint by up to a third.

Durability: LEDs are great in rough conditions, because they are shock resistant. Making them ideal for use under cold temperatures, such as snow and freezer rooms. Not to mention, ideal in hot settings, like hot tubs. If you like the sound of LED technology, then come visit our lighting showroom in Wolverhampton or visit our website. www.lightingrus.co.uk sales@lightingrus.co.uk 01902 757825

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

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Casino 36

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Networking event at Casino 36 Casino 36 were fortunate to secure the services of the ‘Founder of Poundland’ Steve Smith as guest speaker for an exclusive networking event that was held on Friday 1st December to raise money for Breast Cancer Now. The event was sponsored by www.avantikb.co.uk and www.ineedstafftoday.co.uk Local businesses were invited to network, followed by a Chilli & Rice lunch and a talk from the guest speaker Steve Smith who waived his fee for the event. The afternoon also included a business card draw and charity raffle which raised a magnificent £2,063 with ALL proceeds going to www.legacy4lucy.co.uk, which will help the charity smash through the £135,000 fundraising barrier!

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

The building company has over 50 years of experience in construction, covering commercial and domestic development, with many of the carpenters and bricklayers having been employed by the company for over 20 years. The company is well established as being outstanding in its refurbishment and maintenance contracts and is considerate of the care and understanding needed when working on projects in both domestic and commercial sectors.

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Rudells continue to deliver excellence

as they celebrate their th

80 Anniversary

Harborne showroom

Rudell the Jewellers was founded on Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day 1938 by Justin Rudell at No 97 Darlington Street, Wolverhampton premises which they still trade from today.

Rudells is renowned as a Jeweller of Excellence with the finest customer care in the Midlands and the most prestigious selection of jewellery, timepieces and luxury giftware brands to match. In 1985 a second showroom was opened on the High Street in Harborne, Birmingham. Like the Wolverhampton store, the

Harborne premises has expanded in size over the years to provide the most luxurious environment for the impressive array of international brands that Rudells represent. Rudells continues to go from strength to strength and the management teams in both showrooms are immensely proud of the staff and the level of commitment they all

Wolverhampton showroom

wolverhampton west magazine

Jon Weston, Managing Director

show to the ‘family business’. Training and development is a key area of importance to Rudells and every member of staff is given the opportunity for continued learning and development with a range of jewellery industry training courses. These courses are funded by Rudells and lead to recognised qualifications which the staff member will have for life. It’s this commitment to learning that helped Rudells win the ‘Excellence in Staff Development’ Award at the Wolverhampton Independent Retail Excellence (WIRE) Awards in July 2017. The judging panel were enormously impressed at the level of importance Rudells places on staff development and training. 2017 was a year of awards for Rudells because they also scooped the ‘WIRE’ Independent Retailer of the Year Award and then just a few weeks later, Rudells were crowned winners of the Independent Retailer of the Year in the Birmingham Awards so, all in all, a wonderful year for Rudells. The celebrations will continue long into 2018 though as Rudells celebrate their 80th Anniversary on February 14th. It’s hard to imagine what Justin Rudells

Justin, Etta and Anthony Rudell

thoughts would be if he could see the company he founded today! In the last 10 years or so Rudells have focused some of their attention on the introduction of exclusive in-house designed jewellery collections. Stylish and sophisticated jewellery which is not available anywhere other than Rudells. These collections are representative of the passion and commitment to deliver something unique and special and there are plans for the launch of a new and specially cut diamond collection - just in time for their 80th! The design is somewhat under wraps at the moment but each piece in the range will feature a specially commissioned and cut 80 facet diamond. The mount housing the feature diamond in this new collection was designed in-house and was created to allow maximum light into the diamond, thus providing maximum brilliance and fire. We’re led to believe that the collection will feature rings, earrings and pendants but maybe you should keep a look out for the launch on the Rudells website and their social media channels.

promotions, offers, competitions and giveaways and a few surprises too. This is the Rudell way of giving something back to the communities and clients that have supported them for 80 years. Rudells showrooms stand out like a ‘beacon of light’ on Darlington Street, Wolverhampton and the High Street, Harborne. Both stores are beautiful, calm and filled with treats and delights to suit all tastes and all budgets. The staff are the friendliest and most approachable but, importantly, have a superb level of professionalism, knowledge and experience. Rudells staff really care about making a visit to their showroom a truly magical experience - after all, the mission statement of the company is “we promise to deliver excellence in quality, service and value”. Visit Rudells today and see for yourself just how special retail can be!

Throughout the course of their 80th year, there will be in-store

Wolverhampton

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Award Winning

Kitchen & Bedroom Makeover Specialists worktops and a sink, or even a total refurbishment, we sell some of the best products around at very competitive prices. We can also do complete makeovers to bedrooms whether it be a simple door swap on some wardrobes or indeed a full bedroom design and installation.

Kitchen following a Dream Doors makeover

As we settle into the New Year, when it comes to the home, new year’s resolutions are unsurprisingly frequent and if you’re considering a New Year kitchen or bedroom or kitchen or bedroom makeover, why should you consider Dream Doors? From their showroom on the Tettenhall Road, Dream Doors is a family business run by Richard Foster. Richard and his team have a passion for service, design, quality and value for money and have built a trusted reputation across Wolverhampton. Dream Doors can offer a unique kitchen or bedroom refurbishment service tailored to your exact needs - from a cosmetic facelift using replacement doors through to a complete redesign and installation using new units. “We find our showroom is very important for customers to come and visit, as people want to see the quality our large selection of products for themselves. Importantly, they also want to feel reassured they’re dealing with a business that has a local presence – a place to go to if anything were to go wrong. 40

Dream Doors is part of a National Franchised brand that has recently won 2 National Awards ‘Best Kitchen Supplier’ and ‘Best Money Saving Product’ in the 2017 Home and Living Awards. This has further enhanced the brand as the biggest name in kitchen facelifts.” Dream Doors specialises in time and money-saving kitchen and bedroom makeovers, as well as full installations, all fitted by approved and vetted local installers. Started in Hampshire in the late 1990s, the brand now has franchised showrooms as far afield as Truro and Lanarkshire. Dream Doors Wolverhampton brings the company’s innovative kitchen door replacement service to homes throughout the WV postcode area.

Dream Doors’ customers are invited to submit feedback on the independent consumer monitoring website, Checkatrade.com and now have over 220 reviews online with an average rating of 9.8/10. One customer in Wolverhampton gave Dream Doors a glowing testimonial, writing: “From start to finish the most professional and reliable company I have ever dealt with.” Another local homeowner wrote: “We’re over the moon with the service and work done. We can’t speak highly enough of them. We’ve never been so pleased with the quality, standard and service provided from any trader before.” If you would like a Free No Obligation Quotation give Dream Doors Wolverhampton a call on 01902 752200 to discuss your requirements or pop in to see them at 281 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton WV6 0LE. Contact Dream Doors today on 01902 752200 or visit www.dreamdoors.co.uk

“We offer an outstanding product and service, delivered in a manner that ensures total customer satisfaction,” says Richard. “Whatever our customers want, we’re almost always able to say yes to them. If they need some new doors to fit an existing kitchen, we can supply made-to-measure replacements that can be fitted in just one day. If they Kitchen before a Dream Doors makeover want to incorporate wolverhampton west magazine

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Manufacturing all manner of sofas, settees, chairs, chaise lounge, occasional chairs, curtains and soft furnishing from our base in Cannock, we at Ralvern upholstery can create any type of design - from ultra-modern to classically traditional. Using traditional skills we can also strip down your old suite, sofa, occasional chairs and re-create the original design with our superior re-upholstery service.

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Transform your home with

MBH Builders

Now that Christmas is over there has never been a better time to make some changes in your home. Whether it’s making those home improvements you’ve been dreaming of or simply ensuring that your boiler is running effectively, M.B.H Builders can help. As owner, Marcus Hegarty explains: “At this time of year the last thing you want is to be left in the cold, so having a reliable and dependable boiler to provide heat and hot water every day is essential.” An annual boiler service not only eliminates potential problems but also ensures maximum central heating efficiency, which helps to keep energy bills to a minimum. “When it comes to heating your home, ensuring that your system is working efficiently is essential for good economy. We install new boilers and central heating systems and complete all aspects of servicing and maintenance.” Of course, the M.B.H team also undertake those projects that’ll make your home look amazing. “We take on all kinds of building work and have transformed our 44

client’s homes with our kitchen and bathroom installations, loft conversions and extensions.” In fact, many homeowners choose to make changes to their property rather than move house. “It’s often far more cost effective to alter your home instead of moving and the addition of something like a single storey extension can completely transform your living space.” And, installing the kitchen or bathroom you’ve always dreamed of will no doubt be enough to make your current home perfect for you. “We take care of all aspects of work – including the planning - and our team of tradesmen are experienced, highly skilled and fully qualified.” Indeed, as the M.B.H team are Gas Safe, NAPIT and Safe Contractor accredited, clients have complete peace of mind when they deal with the company. Established for over 20 years, M.B.H has earned an enviable reputation in the trade, established a loyal client base - that’s made up of both domestic and commercial clients - and has become the trusted choice for many homeowners.

“We always build a really good relationship with our customers and find that many contact us time and time again to carry out different works on their property.” M.B.H is also contracted by some of the biggest names in the insurance industry. “We work throughout the West Midlands and beyond, carrying out restoration work in all kinds of homes - everything from a traditional terrace to a £5 million mansion - on behalf of insurers like, Zurich, Hiscox, Liverpool Victoria and National Farmers Union. “Our contract is renewed every three years and each time we’ve never been asked to change anything about our work - the company has always been completely satisfied with the job we do.” Unsurprisingly, Marcus enjoyed yet another successful year in business in 2017, as the company continues to go from strength to strength. So, whatever you’ve got planned for your property in 2018, contact the M.B.H team today. Copyright of Wolverhampton West magazine. Not for use in any other publication.

wolverhampton west magazine

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Plays and Parlance Something for everyone who loves drama and interesting talks is the promise from Codsall Community Arts Festival in March 2018. Old Herbaceous – Peter Macqueen takes the role of Herbert Pinnegar who tells of his years of gardening as he dispenses useful tips. Monday 12th March 7.30pm, Codsall Community High School. General Sir Mike Jackson - General Sir Mike Jackson served as Chief of the General Staff and Head of the Army until 2006. Tuesday 13th March 7.30pm, Codsall Community High School. The Screwtape Letters – by CS Lewis - The story takes the form of a series of letters from a senior Demon Screwtape to his nephew Wormwood, a Junior Tempter. Thursday 15th March 7.30pm, Trinity Methodist Church. A Passionate Life – with Robert Powell and Liza Goddard. This play celebrates the extraordinary life and times of the composer Claude

Debussy. Christine Croshaw, who devised the piece, plays the piano and Clive Conway plays the flute. Sunday 18th March 2.30pm Codsall Community High School.

The Grand Tour – with Gareth Williams, Curator to the Weston Park Foundation. The Grand Tour had a lasting impact on what we consider to be British cultural heritage. Gareth’s lecture will focus on the Tour’s legacy, the highlife, fun and hardships of travel in the 18th and early 19th century in what promises to be an informative and entertaining journey around Europe. Monday 19th March 7.30, Codsall Community High School. Oxford Shakespeare Company – Let us just say that this evening of high comedy will be Shakespeare as you have never seen it before. Tuesday 20th March 7.30pm, Codsall Community High School. On top of all that please look out for Codsall Dramatic Society’s press release with details of its forthcoming poignant production, The Thrill of Love.

www.codsallartsfestival.org.uk Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/CodsallArts Contact The Arts Festival on: 07852 200421 Registered Charity 1127064

A Medley of Music Music in all its forms has always been an important feature of Codsall Community Arts Festival. As well as the classical repertoire it is always extremely satisfying to be able to present a variety of other exciting and prestigious musical evenings. It is a pleasure to welcome the internationally acclaimed Morriston Orpheus Choir to Perton Civic Centre on 10th March. Anyone who watched Centenary of the Somme on television will have witnessed the extremely moving quality of this male choir’s performance. Also at Perton Civic Centre, but on 16th March, those of 46

you who love music of the 40s and 50s have a treat in store as the JB Jazz and Blues Band entertain you. Between them this fun-loving band will perform on a range of instruments including banjo and saxes.

Community High School on 20th March.

And for something entirely different how about coming along to experience the vibrant Balkan Gypsy Magic? Much in demand, they have performed at such venues as the South Bank Centre and the Royal Albert Hall. As well as the traditional repertoire of music from Eastern Europe there will also be a dancer. This energetic folk band will be at Codsall

Contact The Arts Festival on: 07852 200421

www.codsallartsfestival.org.uk Find us on Facebook: www. facebook.com/CodsallArts

Registered Charity 1127064

wolverhampton west magazine

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RECIPE

Overnight Oats

Have you made healthier eating a part of your New Year plan? If so you should definitely try this healthy, hearty breakfast. A friend introduced me to overnight oats and I have to say I’m hooked.

source of carbohydrates, which release energy slowly so are a great start to the day.

First, it’s the easiest breakfast ever. There’s nothing to cook; you make it the night before in under 5 minutes, and when you wake up, it’s there waiting. All you have to do is eat it!

• 1 cup of unsweetened milk (I like almond milk but cows’ milk, soya milk, plain yoghurt or a mix of yoghurt and milk is all good).

The basic recipe is very adaptable; you can do so many different things with it.

• 1 tbsp chia seeds or flax seeds (optional but good for healthy omega 3 fats).

I tend to eat mine cold but if you like things hot, heat them up in the microwave.

• Nuts (optional).

Oats help to reduce cholesterol and are a whole, unprocessed 48

INGREDIENTS • 1/2 cup dry oats (the actual cup size doesn’t really matter. It’s about proportions… just use a bigger cup if you have a bigger appetite).

• Fruit of choice (fresh, frozen or even tinned).

METHOD 1.

Combine everything into an airtight bowl or jar (I leave nuts out as I like them crunchy).

Leave in the fridge overnight.

Eat in the morning! You can heat them if you like.

VARIATIONS Fruit: apples, banana, nectarines, blueberries, strawberries, figs, redcurrants (most fruits taste great). Flavourings: flaked or desiccated coconut, ground almonds. Sweeteners: If you have a sweet tooth you can add maple syrup, honey or jam. My kids experimented with chocolate milk too – lovely with bananas. Healthy fats: flax, nuts, nut butters. Toppings to add in the morning: granola, nuts, raisins, sour cherries, additional fruit, chocolate chunks. wolverhampton west magazine

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Charity golf day at Oxley Park golf club

Friday 1st September saw the fifth annual charity golf event at Oxley Park in memory of Mick Leeming, a long standing member of the club. Sadly Mick lost his courageous fight against cancer in September 2012.

organised the winner’s trophy and friends and family generously donate raffle prizes each year. There is also a Guinness and Port (a favourite tipple of Mick’s) for every player at

Family and friends thought it apt to commemorate the life of this great and honourable man by organising a golf event every year in his honour and to date it has raised around £7,000 which has been donated to Compton Hospice and Cancer Research. Work colleagues at UTC

FLOORING

WORKTOPS

the 19th hole; this is sponsored by his three brothers in Australia. A great man who will never be forgotten.

Jackie Leeming surrounded by Mick’s family, friends and work colleagues presenting Kimberley Prosser from Cancer Research UK with a cheque prior to the golf event.

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Geoff Hill Electrical

Quality products, excellent service Geoff Hill Charitable Trust - which was formed in 1997 to help worthy causes – by donating many items to charity every year. A competitive pricing structure means that despite being an independent store, prices match those offered by large chains. And, with offers running on a regular basis, you can be sure that you are always buying at the best price.

When it comes to excellent customer service few stores can match up to Geoff Hill Electrical. Established in 1960, the independent electrical retailer – that’s based in Amblecote, Stourbridge - has long been known for offering unbeatable service as well as an extensive choice of competitively priced products. That’s why the store has earned a loyal customer base and gained an excellent reputation over the 57 years it has been in business. Owner Geoff Hill started running the company from a small store in the village’s high street, after much success and an ever increasing customer demand; he quickly expanded the site before moving to the store’s current premises - 7, High Street - in 1981. The expansive store is now filled with an impressive selection of the latest, and best, top branded audio-visual, electrical and white goods that suit the requirements and budgets of all.

As the business has continued to grow and flourish, Geoff has continued to make changes to the showroom to house their ever-expanding ranges and create the perfect shopping environment for customers.

If you’re looking to spread the cost of your purchase, you will be pleased to hear that the store offers six months interest free finance on purchases over £200, with only a 20% deposit required, then six equal monthly payments of the remaining balance.

The store has just undergone a refurbishment which has up-dated and modernised the space, creating a fresh look and spacious feel.

There’s long term finance on offer too - to suit the needs of every customer - which allows you to make smaller payments over an agreed period of time and there’s even the option to pay weekly (all subject to a credit application and check being approved).

Thanks to a highly trained team of 12 employees, customer service at the store is unbeatable. With an emphasis on offering accurate, impartial and in-depth information on every product, the staff at Geoff Hill Electrical are well equipped to advise on any purchase.

Getting your goods home is easy thanks to the store’s free local delivery option when you spend over £150 and for an additional charge the team can also install your appliance, as well as offering removal of your old one for a small fee.

No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll be treated to an easy, hassle-free shopping experience. And that’s reassuring to know.

So, whether you’re looking to buy an essential electrical appliance for your home or maybe the latest TV to complete your living room, there’s only one retailer to visit and that’s Geoff Hill Electrical, Stourbridge.

What makes Geoff Hill Electrical even more special though is the fact that the store supports the

There are the most up-to-date digital OLED and LED smart televisions, as well as an extensive selection of washing machines, dishwashers, cookers, fridges and freezers, all of which are from the leading and most popular brands - Sony, Hotpoint, Panasonic, Zanussi, Bosch, Samsung, Miele, Siemens, Kenwood, Rangemaster, Indesit and many more. 52

wolverhampton west magazine

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Geoff Hill Ltd supports The Geoff Hill Charitable Trust

Gabriel’s spectacular success

on the slopes

At only eight years of age and with a mere 20 minutes’ experience of the sport - Gabriel Adams was already impressing spectators with his snowboarding skills on the slopes.

Despite a full snowboarding schedule that includes the winter season spent abroad, Gabriel still finds the time to be committed in his school work. “Gabriel is at school in Shropshire for eight months of the year and spends the whole winter training and competing throughout Austria, Germany, France, Italy, Czech Republic and Switzerland. He works really hard to try to keep well ahead with his GCSE coursework.”

Little did Gabriel - or his parents - know that this, his first taste of the sport, would lead to amazing competition success, a career as a snowboarding athlete and set the 14 year old, who now lives in Worfield, on course to dream of Olympic qualification. As his father, Joe Adams explains: “We lived in Morzine, France when Gabriel was young and it was there that he began skiing with the school. When a family friend visited they took him snowboarding and he was instantly hooked.” Gabriel disappeared at the slopes and when he was found he was busy going off the jumps in the adult park. “We were worried to death when we were standing watching him from the bottom of the park, people were coming over to ask how long he’d been snowboarding for, to which we replied, around 20 minutes!” Within just two weeks, Gabriel had entered the Volcom Peanut Butter Rail Jam – which had a leg of its tour in Morzine – and won in the under 16 category. And, it wasn’t just Gabriel’s proud parents that were watching that day. “After the competition GB coach Steve Addicot scouted Gabriel and has trained with him ever since, spending winters in Morzine, Pila and most recently Kaltenbach, Austria.” Since beginning to actively compete at the age of eight, Gabriel has risen through the ranks and for the last four years has competed throughout Europe with great success. 54

wolverhampton west magazine

“He has the full support of his school and a really healthy approach to his school work. His focus and drive, in all aspects of his life really amazes us.”

Gabriel was selected for World Juniors in the Czech Republic and also qualified for the Q Parks final after winning the Gold and Glory leg of the series.

Last season was filled with success for Gabriel and saw him enter in the ‘overall category’- an open age group - in most of his competitions which allows him to get the points he needs to propel him towards Olympic Qualification.

And Gabriel’s achievements are certainly gaining attention, as Ford UK has provided sponsorship and a vehicle to ensure he’ll be able to attend every competition. His other sponsors are Surfanic UK and a new exciting clothing sponsorship opportunity from Superdry who are going to be watching Gabriel closely this season.

“Gabriel finished in 3rd Place in the World Rookie Tour 2017 and achieved 1st Final ‘King of the Valley’ in the Zillertal Valley Ralley Tour, winning four out of five competitions in the series throughout Austria.” Gabriel was asked to join the invitation-only German and Austrian Masters competition due to his 11th place ranking overall in Austria, which is quite an accolade. “He came 2nd in the under 18’s and 9th overall, which was most impressive considering he’s competing in a massive international field. He’s currently ranking 6th overall – across all age groups – in the UK, where he is the youngest by four years.”

In fact, the family are always keen to seek out new sponsorship for Gabriel. “Gabriel’s costs are increasing as he is progressing. We have had to start source funding and sponsorship, which is very difficult to attain for sportsmen and women under the age of 16,” adds Joe. He has just started the new season winning a second place at the World Rookie Tour rail Jam earning him a place at the Finals in April so it looks set to be another good season for Gabriel.

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With ambitions to compete at the Olympics, the X Games and in FIS World Cup Events, as well as to rank number one in the world, there’s no doubt that Gabriel’s skill and determination will see him achieve his goals.

Wolverhampton & Wombourne Half Marathon 2018 (aka The Monarch’s Way March) Fancy following in the footsteps of royalty on a running adventure with a difference?

“There’s been a real buzz about this ever since we first mentioned the idea to some of the runners at our other events. It seems people are looking for something just a bit different and this certainly ticks all the boxes. With the varied terrain and landscapes, plus the fun of finding your way, it’s guaranteed to give you and your running buddies a right royal adventure.”

Come claim your crown as king or queen of the runners on Sat 31st March 2018. This self-navigated event for teams of 2 or 3 people, winds its way through the beautiful countryside along the “Monarchs Way”. This was the escape route used by King Charles II in 1651 after being defeated in the Battle of Worcester.

Mark goes on to say, “With the planned bare-minimal way markings, the fun here is on navigating your way with the help of your mates. But you don’t need to be a compass bearing explorer to take part, easy to follow downloadable maps are available, as too are GPX way points for the more tech savvy.”

The event is being hosted by Mash Running Events who hold fun and friendly annual events in and around Staffordshire. Mark Mundy, Mash Running Joint Race Organiser, is excited to be in charge of what looks set to become a firm favourite on the running calendar.

Mash Running are keen to promote the friendly and fun side of running, and it reflects in their ‘everyone is welcome’ attitude. Runners of all abilities lace up and get going at their events, where first timers line up next to established club runners.

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There are custom made medals for everyone taking part and category trophies for the winners. Plus the ‘Best Team Name’ trophy open category which any team can win. Funny, cryptic, motivational, it’s up to you, just assemble your team and go for it! To find out more visit Mash Running events page at: www.mashrunning.co.uk

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Keep Warm with Black Country Firewood The team at Black Country Firewood has been as busy as ever ensuring that their customers keep warm over the cold winter months by supplying only the best split, dried and ready-to-burn logs. As owner, Mike Snelson explains: “We hope that our customers have enjoyed a cosy Christmas in front of the fire thanks to our ready-to-burn logs. We’d like to wish all of our customers a very happy New Year.” The company’s carefully prepared firewood takes the hard work out of fuelling a fire, which makes it easy for you to enjoy your open fire or stove. And, if you’re not sure which fuel is right for you, the Black Country Firewood team is always on-hand to offer guidance.

Mike Snelson from Black Country Firewood (left) and Fire Fighter Tom Turner from Wombourne Fire Station, look on as Gabriella Suesse (11) from Kidderminster tries out the fire fighting kit during the open day at Black Country Firewood.

“150 people turned up to see all of the different firewood options we have to offer, whilst enjoying a drink and a slice of wood-fired pizza.”

“Our Bobbington-based Firewood Centre is open six days a week and our firewood technicians are ready and waiting to offer friendly advice.”

Wombourne’s fireplace specialists, Flaming Fires joined the event to showcase the latest in woodburning technology with a range of live Chesney stoves on display.

Black Country Firewood held its first open day back in October, which proved to be a great success.

“Dean from The Wombourne Chimney Sweep and Orange Watch from Wombourne Fire Station

also attended to educate guests on chimney fire safety as well as the importance of having your chimney swept regularly and burning quality wood fuel that has been properly dried out,” adds Mike. With plenty of chilly months still to come, there’s never been a better time to pay a visit to Black Country Firewood to stock-up on the fuel that’ll keep you nice and warm on those cold winter nights.

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WHERE WILL YOUR BUSINESS TAKE YOU?

TURNING ENTREPRENEURIAL DREAMS INTO REALITY Do you have an idea you are passionate about, is there a service you could deliver better or do you need space to launch a new product? This New Year let SPARK help you take the leap and start a creative or tech business. SPARK Hub entrepreneurs made that leap and have turned their entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Our resident entrepreneurs are now on their way to becoming leaders and experts in their various fields, providing training, delivering key services and launching new products around the country. SPARK companies range from start-ups in their early formative stages to companies who have achieved accelerated growth with clear market traction. SPARK Incubation Hub has

provided the perfect start-up platform for these entrepreneurs to develop their expertise, to scale their businesses and grow. More than 200 creative and technology companies have so far been incubated and over 2000 have received support through their association with SPARK, one of which is events management company FunkiMunki, who this year celebrates its 10th anniversary.

The company are a leading supplier of tailor made events, including corporate events and team building days throughout the UK and Europe. With years of experience in the entertainment industry, Director Enzo Mongiovi attributes the secret of his success to hard work, persistence, the network of advisors he had access to early on and being located on a Science Park which serves as a calling card to prospective clients in terms of credibility. SPARK Hub is based at the University of Wolverhampton

Science Park and provides an inclusive and collaborative environment for its resident companies. Start-up company School of Coding has been headquartered here for 2 years and they maintain that their association with SPARK and the University of Wolverhampton has given them credibility that has allowed them to raise investment and attract commercial deals which otherwise would have been difficult to achieve. School of Coding delivers nationally and internationally recognised computer coding classes and qualifications for children and young people. The company

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wolverhampton west magazine

how to spot the signs of mental health issues in a young person, how to offer first aid and guide them towards the support they need. The company is getting ready to train another cohort of teachers this year.

recently partnered with the National Careers Service to hold the UK’s first ever Computer Science Workshop for SEN students. Students took part in a fun-packed workshop learning to code robots, create video games and experience virtual reality technology. School of Coding regularly engage young people through their after school and holiday clubs at their tuition centre here at SPARK. SPARK Hub was specifically designed to allow its resident companies the freedom to grow and occupy larger spaces to accommodate their increasing capacity. August Financials is a bookkeeping and finance management business offering specialist packages for startups and small businesses.

As well as providing space to grow, SPARK Hub offers space to create. Your Psychology Director, Dr. Gary Lavan, a Chartered Education Psychologist, recently authored and published his new book.

The company has not only created a framework of learning for teachers and SENCO’s, but through the training it provides, it is also making an impact to a generation of young people struggling with mental health issues, an issue which is consistently headline news. The company provides training for teachers and SENCO’s working with children with challenging behaviours. Dr. Lavan trains those who work with or support young people aged 8-18 on

SPARK hub is already home to a talented and diverse community of entrepreneurs. The unique link with the University of Wolverhampton, Black Country Growth Hub and Black Country Chamber of Commerce provides entrepreneurs with onsite access to a wealth of business professionals as well as expert advice and support. This combination has facilitated growth in our resident companies, created jobs, attracted investment to the city, and ultimately contributed to boosting the Midlands economy. SPARK offers start-ups heavily subsidised office space and easy in/out contracts. There are several types of flexible and cost effective office spaces on offer. All our spaces are fully furnished, broadband is provided, a staffed reception, a modern kitchen/diner facility, free car park, relaxed catering facilities, many informal meeting areas as well as free use of board style meeting room and subsidised use of an on-site professional photo studio. Enquire now and see how SPARK can change your business, today!

The company uses innovative technology to automate the bookkeeping process to help clients save time and money. Since joining SPARK, the company has grown and benefitted from the office space options on offer. August Financials has moved from a studio space, to a co-working office space, has started employing freelance specialists and has recently moved into a larger office space all within a nine month period!

www.sparkspace.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

01902 837400

enquiries@sparkspace.co.uk 63

Wi-Fi woes? Whilst wireless networks make use of our devices much easier, there are times when they can be frustrating due to loss of connectivity and speed due to distance from the router or interference. As ever in the world of IT, there are many ways to alleviate these problems.

2018 Set to be Exciting Year as Colleges Agree Merger North Shropshire College (NSC) and Herefordshire and Ludlow College have agreed to seek a merger. The proposed merger will enable students in both communities to benefit from good quality education, availability of a broader range of courses and facilities, and it will secure a sustainable and prosperous future. The merged college will maximise the opportunities of being a major regional educational provider. 64

Finchfield IT

Wi-Fi repeaters are becoming more popular. These are usually fairly small devices that are plugged into a socket not too far from the router so they can pick up some of the signal and ‘bounce’ it to areas with low or no signal. At times where the reach of these isn’t long enough homeplug adapters can be useful. These use the mains electricity as part of a wired network, with a wireless device plugged into a socket in the area needing a signal. These devices all use a range of wireless standards, with the latest 7802.11ac the highest speed and longest range.

PC Support & Service

Whatever the problem, contact us for the answer.

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Gillian Richards, Chair of Governors at NSC, comments, ‘NSC’s governors are unanimous in the decision to join Herefordshire and Ludlow College. The merged organisation will offer more for all our students, communities, businesses and other key stakeholders. I look forward to the exciting developments ahead.’ Both colleges will now work together, with the support of the Government’s Treasury Transaction Unit, towards achieving the merger, aiming to complete in 2018.

SPRING OPEN EVENT VISIT US AT OUR OPEN EVENTS FOR 2018 Shipley Campus Wed 7th February 2018 5pm-8pm 01902 709840 WWW.NSC.AC.UK wolverhampton west magazine

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A New Year,

A New Season

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

said to be both foliage and tuber blight resistant. 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.

Seed potatoes usually arrive at the start of the New Year, weather permitting. We stock over 45 different varieties, including several of the Albert Bartlett range and old favourites like Rocket and Arran Pilot. This year we have the new variety ‘Carolus’ which has a red eye and is ideal for baking, roasting and mashing but more importantly for the gardener is

Use winter wash on your fruit trees 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 the stem. This is an important step to carry out every year, but more so now as there are no fungicides available on the market to treat diseases of fruit trees such as scab, rust and mildews. Trim old leaves away from Hellebores, making it easier to see the flowers and preventing the spread of disease. If it’s mild, mulch plants ready for spring growth in a few weeks’ time.

Although we haven’t had much snow over the last few years it might not be the case this year. If the snow and hard frosts do arrive make sure vulnerable plants – Hebe, Phormium, Cordyline, Palms and Tree Ferns are covered with fleece. January and February are the ideal time to wash and disinfect your greenhouse. Do this on a mild day to prevent the risk of cracking cold panes of glass. Having a clean greenhouse at the beginning of the season ensures that seeds and plants get off to a good start. 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.

OPEN DAILY

Bridgnorth Road, Shipley, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7EZ

Seed Potatoes arriving in early January. Full range of bird foods, feeders and tables always in stock.

Tel 01902 700209 66

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

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

www.lealansgardencentre.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine

GARDEN DESIGN INSPIRATION FOR 2018 If you are thinking of getting your garden professionally designed this spring, what should you be looking out for when choosing a landscape company? We ask Andi Way at the awardwinning Boningale Garden Creations for his advice and tips. What makes a good garden designer? A good garden designer has to be in tune with the customer – and gaining trust is absolutely vital. This means spending hours with you to ascertain exactly how you want to use the garden and what it is you want to achieve. At this initial stage, they will go through existing

features, talk about preferred styles, and, crucially, budget. It’s only when those details are sorted that the design can be created. What should people look for if they want to use a garden design company? Do some digging! Before signing on the dotted line, ask to speak to previous customers and check to see if it is a member of the Association of Professional Landscapers – this will give you added assurance of quality and guarantee of service.

and with so many options, from slate, block paving and brick to concrete and gravel – not forgetting natural materials like hedging and trees - to choose from, it may feel overwhelming. A good company will advise on the pros and cons of each type of material taking into account the design brief, surrounding landscape as well as your home’s architectural style. At Boningale we have a team of experts, from our award-winning garden design associates to our horticultural specialists and project management team, who will give you expert advice, every step of the way.

Will they help us choose the best hard landscaping materials? Materials are one of the most important components in the design (and budget)

For further information and advice, please visit www.boningale-garden-creations.co.uk, email inspiration@boningale.co.uk or call us on 01902 376500.

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

@boningalegarden

Grand Theatre COMPETITION Set and lighting design for HEDDA GABLER is by Jan Versweyveld, with costume design by An D’Huys and sound by Tom Gibbons. The Associate Directors are Jeff James and Rachel Lincoln.

One lucky reader can win 2 tickets to see HEDDA GABLER on Tuesday 23rd January at 7.30pm at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. The National Theatre has announced that Lizzy Watts will take the title role of HEDDA GABLER which, following a sold-out run at the National Theatre earlier this year, will tour to Wolverhampton Grand Theatre in 2018, from Tuesday 23 – Saturday 27 January. Just married. Bored already. Hedda longs to be free… This vital new version of Ibsen’s masterpiece is by Olivier and Tony Award®-winning playwright Patrick Marber (Closer, Three Days in the Country) directed by Ivo van Hove, one of the world’s most exciting directors. Olivier and Tony Award®-winning van Hove made his National Theatre debut

with HEDDA GABLER, which opened in December 2016. His acclaimed production of A View from the Bridge recently played to sold-out houses in London and on Broadway and Obsession starring Jude Law is currently playing at The Barbican, London. Van Hove’s next production for the NT will be the world premiere of Network based on the Oscarwinning film and featuring the UK stage debut of Bryan Cranston. Lizzy Watts’ theatre credits include Strife at Chichester Festival Theatre, The Angry Brigade and Artefacts at The Bush, A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Globe, Blink for Nabokov and Wasted for Paines Plough. TV includes The Durrells and Midsomer Murders and she plays Ivy Layton in BBC Radio 4’s Home Front.

Patrick Marber said: “It has been a huge honour to work with the great Ivo van Hove on this version of Hedda Gabler at the National Theatre. I am thrilled that this tour will enable more people to see his incredible production.” Scott Bird, Press & PR Manager at the Grand Theatre said: “Following hugely successful runs of The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time and One Man, Two Guvnors from the National Theatre in 2015, we are pleased to welcome NT productions back to the city of Wolverhampton. Hedda Gabler will form an integral part of the theatre’s quality drama offerings throughout our 2017/18 season.”

To book your visit call 01902 42 92 12 or book online at grandtheatre.co.uk

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and send it on a postcard with your name, address and telephone number to Wolverhampton West Magazine or email info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk by Friday 12th January 2018.

Who wrote the original script for Hedda Gabler? A. William Shakespeare B. Christopher Marlowe C. Anton Checkhov D. Henrik Ibsen 68

Competition Terms and Conditions Please send postal entries to Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY or email info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk. To be received no later than Friday 12th January 2018. 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.

wolverhampton west magazine

Tile Choice Official Wolves Partner

Wolves have struck up a new partnership with Midlands company, Tile Choice for the 2017/18 campaign. Although the two companies have worked closely in recent seasons, this is Tile Choice’s first as an official Wolves partner and in return the club will promote their brand and offers across the season. Tile Choice became the first external company to associate their brand with the club’s new LED video walls. Lee Rudkin, Managing Director of Tile Choice, said: “We have several branches locally and, as many of our staff members and customers are committed Wolves fans, it made perfect sense for us to increase our presence at the Molineux.”

The company has been in business since 1991 and has gone on to design 17 stores across the Midlands including in Bilston, Wolverhampton, Cannock, Walsall, West Bromwich, Birmingham, Kidderminster and as far as Shrewsbury, Northampton and Derby – ranging from 3,000 square feet to 19,000 square feet. Tile Choice also boast a centralised warehouse and distribution centre, which is stocked with over £5 million worth of tiles. With huge stock and selection of porcelain and ceramic tiles, along with natural stone,

Tile Choice prides itself on selling high quality products, sourced from the world’s leading manufacturers. Tile Choice maintain that customer service and product knowledge is key to their business. Whilst their staff continue to deliver a high standard and offer helpful information and advice in all aspects of the customers’ tiling project, keeping them ahead of the game in tiles. www.tilechoice.co.uk

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

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The caring side

of business

At the time of writing, Christmas is fast approaching and I would like to take a second to acknowledge the kindness that my dear departed son’s employers have shown during this very difficult and emotional time. My son Brad passed away unexpectedly whilst staying with friends at the tender age of just 20 in October 2017.

and said he was able to give his best with the informal approach. Brad started work at the Royal School in Penn where he soon became a valuable member of the team. He was eager to step up to the mark and looked after the school IT needs. The school described him as always being willing to help, very polite and respectful to all. His close colleagues felt Brad was like an older brother when teaching

them about what needed to be done and that his emails were legendary. Brad was doing so well that a week before he passed away he was promoted. Zoe from Concero rang and asked if she could set up a just giving page in his memory and to help with funeral costs. The original target was £1000 but this quickly reached £2350 which was an overwhelming amount. This reflected the love and respect that Concero, his close colleagues and his friends had for this unique young man and I am truly grateful. I sincerely appreciate Concero’s unparalleled kindness and support and that they gave all their staff time off to pay their respects. Helen Marston

He began working for Concero in May 2016 having gained previous IT work experience from Codsall High School. They said that they will always remember Brad’s ability to make them laugh. Brad was also able to achieve any task they gave him with ease, kindness and hardwork. In May 2016 Brad had his interview with Concero .They remembered Brad from his week of work experience whilst at Highfields School in Penn Wolverhampton. Brad recalled his first job interview was on a sofa

Brad (back row left) with the team at Concero

Junior football team secures sponsorship deal Weston Motors is proud to have sponsored and helped a budding new football team, “Shifnal Harriers U13” The team has been formed for the new 2017/18 season and is being managed by John Hall as part of “Shifnal Junior Football Club” 70

The team is set to have an exciting first season and is thrilled to have managed to secure a sponsor such as Weston Motors who have provided the team with a brand new kit! Andrew Smith, Managing Director of Weston Motors, was delighted to be asked to help a local team out and wishes the team the best of luck for a successful season.

wolverhampton west magazine

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

COMPTON COLOUR BLAST 5K

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A sizzling success for Allan Bennett This year’s official Sausage Week was a sizzling success for members of the Q Guild of Butchers with 10 award winners across two major industry competitions: Champion of Champions organised by Meat Trades Journal (6 November) and the official UK Sausage Week Awards (30 October).

The clutch of accolades achieved by Q Guild Butchers affirms the membership organisation’s status as representing the very best butchers in the country. Leading the charge with the top prize was the winner of the Champion of Champions, Allan Bennett Ltd for its Sunshine Sausage, a Mediterranean inspired sausage made with tomato, oregano and garlic. The Champion of Champions pitted the winners of 2017’s various sausage industry awards from throughout the year (including the Q Guild’s Smithfield and Barbecue awards) against each other to find the very best sausage in the UK.

of herbs spices…. the sausage was extremely well presented both cooked and uncooked.”

Taking place at County Hall in London, the top sausages in the land were assessed by a panel of expert judges in both raw and cooked forms. The judges’ decision was unanimous, saying they were “attracted…to the flavour because of the subtle mixture

This marks the fourth time that Allan Bennett has won the Champion of Champions award, the most ever won by an individual butcher. Although his fourth time picking up the trophy, Allan said he was “ecstatic to have won again.”

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 74

wolverhampton west magazine

Wolverhampton Skip Hire receives prestigious business award

Grays Promotions presented their annual Midlands Business Award to Wolverhampton Skip Hire Ltd at their Gentlemen’s Friday Club Luncheon on Friday 8th December 2017 in Birmingham. Wolverhampton Skip Hire Ltd received the award for their outstanding business contribution to the Midlands. Wolverhampton Skip Hire Ltd operates in the waste industry and was established nearly 30 years ago by owner Brian Saunders, his wife Sam and with the invaluable assistance of Brian’s brother Neil. Over the past 10 years, Wolverhampton Skip Hire Ltd has expanded into new build property development. With its business partners, it is currently reinstating

Essington golf course which will open in 2018. The business award was presented on behalf of Grays Promotions by John Allen, Managing Director of Reliant Windows which sponsored the corporate sporting event. L-R: Steve Gray – Grays Promotions, John Allen –

Grays Promotions Managing Director of Reliant Windows & event sponsor, Brian Saunders – Wolverhampton Skip Hire & Business was established Award Winner, Ron Gray – Grays Promotions 43 years ago by Ron Gray when he began The Gentlemen’s Friday Club promoting professional boxing Luncheon is a corporate sporting shows at the Wolverhampton luncheon which Ron and his son Civic Hall. He has since been Steve hold four times a year in honoured by the Wolverhampton Birmingham. The guest speaker Civic Hall’s Wall of Fame, received at this event was John H. Stracey, the prestigious Sir Henry Cooper the former WBC Welterweight Award for Services to Boxing and Champion of the World. It in 2016 he was inducted into the was attended by companies British Boxing Hall of Fame. from all over the Midlands.

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Going from strength to strength

Gluttons for Nourishment

It’s been a year since Justine Allan took over Tettenhall’s much-loved coffee lounge, Gluttons for Nourishment, and in that time the 27 year old has taken the business from strength-to-strength.

Making changes to the management and running of the operation, improving the quality of the food and expanding into external catering has seen Gluttons not only retain its loyal clientele but attract a new customer base too. And, as testament to the success of Justine’s first year, Gluttons has achieved an impressive accolade, as she explains: “We have been awarded the title of ‘Best Café in Wolverhampton’ by Three Best Rated, which is absolutely fantastic.” Created to help you to find the top three local businesses, professionals, restaurants and healthcare providers, Three Best Rated uses a 50-Point Inspection to check everything from a business’s reviews and reputation to its history, complaints and ratings. “Offering excellent service is incredibly important to us and so we’re really proud of the award and are delighted to read our clients’ reviews online.” Justine is supported by a hardworking team of staff who help her to deliver the best service throughout all aspects of the business. “I’m lucky to have a supportive team working for me, as well as many lovely regular customers who we really enjoy seeing in the coffee lounge.” 76

Happy customer enjoying afternoon tea

Customers at Gluttons can choose from a delicious selection of food and drink from the café’s extensive menu or make a booking to enjoy a special Afternoon Tea. “We’re revamping the menu, introducing new items, and including vegan options, and we’re also now offering a VIP Afternoon Tea.” Even more special than Gluttons’ regular Afternoon Tea, the VIP option provides diners with extra cake and savoury selections, a starter platter and a glass of Prosecco, all presented on a table decorated with a bouquet of fresh flowers.

proved to be incredibly popular, especially with corporate clients. “We deliver specially prepared buffets which are ideal for business meetings as well as special occasions, like baby showers,” adds Justine. So, whether you’re paying a visit to Gluttons or waiting for a buffet to be delivered, you can depend on ‘Wolverhampton’s Best Café’ to serve up only the finest food and the best service.

Despite being incredibly busy managing the running of the business, Justine takes on several other roles too. “I bake all of the cakes - I regularly make 35 sponge cakes a week – and I also take care of our deliveries.” Outside catering is a new aspect of the business and has already

Delicious buffet prepared for a corporate client

wolverhampton west magazine

Gluttons AFTERNOON TEA A selection of Sandwiches, Hot and Cold Savouries, Cakes, Scones, Meringues, Tea, Coffee, Hot Chocolate

only £15 per person SpARklING AFTERNOON TEA £20 per person

VIp AFTERNOON TEA £25 per person

THEMEd AFTERNOON TEA £25 per person

Bookings are essential for all our Afternoon Tea’s

Serving All Day Breakfast • Light Bites • Salads Oven Baked Jacket Potatoes • Gourmet Sandwiches • Open Sandwiches Homemade Cake • Gluten Free Available • Hot Drinks • Hot Chocolate Milkshakes • Cold Drinks • Wines, Beers & Bubbles Catering for local businesses and events • We sell Birthday Cakes that are made to order Open Monday to Saturday 9am - 5pm

Gluttons is available to hire on Sundays

Free WIFI

To avoid disappointment we recommend booking your table, please call: 01902 755689 or email: info@gluttonstettenhall.co.uk Tettenhall Arcade, High Street, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 8QS

www.gluttonstettenhall.co.uk facebook.com/gluttonstettenhall www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Instagram.com/gluttonsfornourishment

Davenport House

A breathtaking wedding venue in the heart of rural Shropshire

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

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

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

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

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

green’. And, as day turns to evening, The Great Hall becomes your dance floor, while guests might also choose to relax in The Saloon or The Drawing Room. Four luxurious en-suite bedrooms are located in the main house, while four cottages in the grounds offer self-catering accommodation. A further cottage is offered as your bridal preparation area. From intimate to lavish, and from contemporary style to the more traditional, Davenport House is your country estate and we look forward to welcoming you.

wolverhampton west magazine

Su LAU nd N a C 11a y 4t H E m h F VE - 3 eb NT pm ru ar y

ÂŠ Andrew Gale

Your exquisite Georgian c o u n t r y e s tat e An imposing country estate, Davenport House is exclusively yours on your special day. Set amidst picturesque Shropshire countryside, this idyllic Georgian house was extensively refurbished in 2017. Make yourself at home, celebrating your wedding day surrounded by its history, warmth and elegance.

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

BAR & BISTRO www.3hammers.co.uk

With its superb conservatory and outdoor eating area, we are a family friendly bar and bistro serving freshly cooked traditional food. Vegetarian menu, childrens menu, choice tantalising daily specials complimented by fine ales, wines and a great new range of cocktails whether you’re a GOLFER OR NOT!

STeAk nIghT ThuRSdAyS 2 steaks and a bottle of wine

fROm £25!

(includes sirloin, ribeye & fillet)

• Curry night Tuesdays - Curry and a drink (pint of beer, 175ml wine or soft drink) for £10.00 • Food now served 12pm until 8pm on a Sunday • Bookings being taken for Valentine’s Day & Mother’s Day • Breakfast served daily from 10am until 12pm To avoid disappointment please book, tel: 01902 791917 3hammersbistro@gmail.com Situated on the 3 Hammers Golf Complex, Old Stafford Road, Coven, Nr Wolverhampton WV10 7PP

Lunch Time Menu Offer 2 Courses for £15.95 3 Courses for £19.95 Running January and February, Monday to Thursday 12-5pm 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 859 800. 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.

01902 859 800 | www.oakleyarms.co.uk

The Oakley Arms, Kiddemore Green Road, Brewood, Staffordshire ST19 9BQ

wolverhampton west magazine

Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant Established 1989

Air conditioned

Cuisine of Bengal

Fully licensed

Restaurant of the year West Midlands region 2016



FOOD HYGIENE RATING SCHEME 2011

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

Treat your lo ve one to a spec d romantic even ial for Valentines ing perfect venu at the e to dine. Bookings on ly.

“We pride ourselves on our Quality of Food, Excellent Customer Service and Customer Satisfaction.” Recently refurbished in contemporary surroundings, air conditioned and fully licensed. Our popular Take-away Service is still the best in Wombourne offering 10% off our Menu price.

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

High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DN

facebook.com/wombourne.tandoori

www.wombournetandoori.com

www.parkhousehotelshifnal.co.uk

Christmas Revisited

Valentines Ball

(for those who haven’t yet celebrated the festivities)

Friday 9th February 2018 £29.95pp

A full night of partying with disco

Treat your loved one to a delicious 3 course Dinner & a Glass of Prosecco, whilst enjoying an Ed Sheeran Tribute and a Disco till late to dance the night away

£19.95pp

(including a 4 course festive menu)

Saturday 13th January & Saturday 27th January 2018

For bookings or further details please call 01952 460128 or email reservations@parkhouseshotel.net The Park House Hotel, Park Street, Shifnal, Telford, TF11 9BA www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

The Cowshed

Pat t i n g h a m Win a meal for two

This month we have teamed up with The Cowshed to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a superb 3 course meal for 2 including a bottle of house wine. Set in the backdrop of the beautiful South Staffordshire countryside, the family-run Cowshed restaurant is a charming little barn conversion, nestled away within a quaint farmhouse courtyard in the heart of Pattingham. The Cowshed prides itself on rustling up the very finest of traditional British-farmed food, cooked fresh to order and with a modern twist. Every dish

is made with a pinch of finesse, a splash of innovation and a big dollop of seasonal charm. Favourite light bites include panseared black pudding, drizzled in a honey and mustard cream sauce, topped with a poached egg and smokey bacon bits; garlic mushrooms served on toasted brioche, topped with green leaves and parmesan shavings; and chilli infused tiger prawns served in garlic butter and a side of warm baked ciabatta. For mains, there’s fillet Rossini, served with homemade chicken liver parfait and chunky hand-cut chips, topped with a rich madeira sauce;

pan seared duck breast on a bed of sticky braised red cabbage with a rich port sauce and creamy dauphinoise potatoes; beer-braised pork belly, complemented with wholegrain mustard mash and creamed savoy cabbage, finished with a sweet sticky cider reduction; and last but not least, a selection of prime cut steaks, cooked to preference and served with bespoke sauces. These are just some of the delights on offer this winter. Whatever your culinary persuasion, The Cowshed offers a taste sensation fit for every palate and promises you and your loved ones a truly delicious experience.

C OM P ETITION For a chance to win, just answer the following question correctly:

What is the website address for The Cowshed? 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 2nd February 2018.

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 valid Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Sunday inclusive and booking date will be subject to availability. Excludes Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day. Prize to be redeemed by Friday 16th March 2018. All entries will be forwarded to The Cowshed unless requested otherwise.

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Clive Farm, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7DU

For a meal to remember! Special Offer

20% Off*

Evening A la Carte Menu

Your total bill When you presen t this advert

Lunch Menu 2 courses £14.99 | 3 courses £19.99 Sunday Lunch 2 courses £19.99 - 3 courses £24.99 *Offer valid Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings only with A la Carte menu for up to a max of 8 people until 28th February 2018, excluding Wednesday14th February 2018, when you present this advert, no photocopies.

Wednesday 14th february

Valentines Day 4 Courses £38.50 Sunday 11th March

Mothering Sunday 3 Courses £29.95

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

For bookings please telephone: 01902 701888 Cowshed Pattingham

@TheCowshed1 thecowshedpattingham www.thecowshedrestaurant.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk info@thecowshedrestaurant.co.uk

The Bilash

Wolverhampton

By Rob Taylor

A mate of mine once told me that he saw Welsh international and Real Madrid footballer Gareth Bale dining out at a restaurant in Wolverhampton. He said this in 2011 when both Bale and Wolves were playing in the Premier League so, even though my friend always delivers performances full of brio and is prone to the occasional bit of pub-based mendacity, I took the remark in good faith until he went on to say that he was eating a curry at the time. Surely a high profile star visiting a curry house in the city centre after defeating the local team (Wolves lost 0-2) would have created uproar, rioting even, the kind of which would have made the local press. Therefore I dismissed the remark, but always remembered the name of the restaurant, The Bilash. The story resonates because tonight it is the turn of my longsuffering girlfriend Nicola and I to feast upon the delights of the award-winning, Michelin-rated Indian restaurant. And it is time for

me to learn yet again never to trust a stereotype, because it’s a sad fact that there is a ‘truth’ regarding Indian restaurants in Britain that says they are full of nothing but fizzy lager and frightening quantities of ghee. Meat of questionable origin is deep-fried and batch-cooked in fluorescent colour, before being served by obsequious staff either pre or post-football match. Look around in a typical curry house and you’re supposed to see the great unwashed. Therefore: no celebrities like Gareth Bale. Now historically there may be a scintilla of truth to this but I’ve

Former Chancellor, George Osbourne helping out in the kitchen

always felt that the merits of Indian cuisine in general fell victim to this derision. Just because there are purveyors of sub-standard swill out there doesn’t mean all food of this ilk should be tarnished with a down market reputation. After all, a burger and chips at one establishment can be leagues apart from that served up in another. One visit to The Bilash tells me that this place is a cut above. Established in 1982 by innovative, Michelin-awarded chef Sitab Khan, this family-run business is renowned for producing modern and inventive Bangladeshi and Indian cuisine. With an accent on the finer things, The Bilash has distinguished itself countless times over and boasts legions of loyal locals and even visiting VIPs as patrons. Watch former Tory Chancellor George Osborne cooking in its kitchen on YouTube. Read about it online as the venue where West Midlands MPs Tom Watson and Sion Simon met to discuss the plan to oust Tony Blair as Prime Minister in 2006. And know that it’s de rigueur for celebrities performing at the nearby Civic Hall or Grand Theatre to pop in post-performance for a taste of the Far East. These, I can assure you, are not tall tales. This place has been at the top for decades: the list of accolades which have wolverhampton west magazine

rice cooked with onions, ginger and steamed cauliflower (£3.50) and Peshwari Naan (£3.90) to eat with, so we scoop and dredge until the dish is clean. Stand out mention must also go to Murghi Diya Donia; this delectable dish has lost none of its might since it grabbed the award for Wolverhampton and central region’s Curry Chef of the Year award in 1999 and 2001. With so much skill in balancing spices and manufacturing flavour demonstrated in every dish, it’s easy to see why the restaurant is beloved by so many. Michelin-awarded Chef Sitab Khan

been bestowed upon it steadily over the years is unending. And this brings me to another bone of contention: because of the highprofile clientele that The Bilash’s cooking attracts, people naturally assume that it must be ruinously expensive. Its address may be 2, Cheapside, Wolverhampton, but that’s the only thing cheap about it, they snipe. This just isn’t true; in fact to run with the football analogy, it delivers Premier League food at Championship prices. Fronted these days by manager Mo Khan, the restaurant assaults our senses from the moment we scurry inside away from the inclement conditions – it is modern and slickly presented, with ample seating downstairs for intimate dining and larger parties in the rooms above. We receive a warm welcome from Mo and his staff and take to our seats, ready to tuck in. He promises us a custom sample hewn from a well-stocked menu, designed to showcase what 35 years’ at the top can offer, so we leave it to the experts, safe in the knowledge that there’s a fair chance each dish will boast peerless pedigree. In the meantime we soak up the ambience, sipping drinks, marvelling at how vibrant the restaurant is on a wet Tuesday evening. There’s no sign of the usual takeaway traffic and with good reason, this is food with a sense of occasion about it. Everything is freshly made, all ingredients freshly sourced – it just wouldn’t do it justice to gobble it down in front of Eastenders on TV. By now our salivary glands are in overdrive thanks to the clean, heavenly scent of fresh spices that flood the restaurant

Our starters are: Masala Mach – marinated seabass on a bed of roasted onion vine tomato with coriander sauce (£18.50) and Paneer Shaslik – marinated homemade paneer with onion, peppers and tomato (£12.90). Our mains are: Goan Tiger Prawn Massala (£22.90); Bilash Super - chicken tikka in spicy tomato sauce (£13.90); Murghi Diya Donia – steaks of marinated chicken breast served with stir fried noodles (£14.50) and Bhindi Bhajee – spicy stir fried okra (£6.50). The star dish comes early amid the starters: a rust-coloured, spicy dish that brings much richness to the palate and emboldens the timidity of the fish considerably. The coriander sauce brings a kind of slippery indulgence that lifts it far beyond the ordinary. Another star is the people’s favourite, Bilash Super. Super for taste, super for price, super for sauce: just plain, super-dooper. We have oodles of Ghobi Pilou Rice -

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Dessert comprises: White chocolate fresh strawberry mousse infused with coconut and cardamom and Gulab Jamun served with fresh vanilla ice cream (£7.90). Delicate and deeply satisfying is the best way to sum them up. As for The Bilash, it’s safe to say that it is the best Indian restaurant by a Black Country mile. You need visit nowhere else.

The Bilash, 2 Cheapside, (opposite the Civic Centre) Wolverhampton, WV1 1TU For reservations please call: 01902 427762 / 311991 or email: table@thebilash.co.uk www.thebilash.co.uk

Manager Mo Khan

** * O N LY Â£ 15.00PP FOR ANY EVENTS *** B O O K E D BEFORE THE 31ST JAN 2018! 86

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The Bilash, fine dining, award winning Michelin rated Indian restaurant with ample car parking (valet parking available from 6.30pm) or just a short walk from the railway station. We’re a family owned restaurant, established for 35 years and are renowned for our modern and innovative Bangladeshi and Indian food. We constantly strive to provide a dining experience to satisfy the modern discerning diner served in our recently refurbished stylish and contemporary restaurant.

Valentine’s Special 3 course dinner menu £29.95 per person 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th February 2018, reservations only

Privilege Nights on Monday and Tuesday Available Jan and Feb 2018 Two Course Choice Starter, Main and Choice of Sundries Only £13.95

∙ A la Carte Set Menu ∙ Corporate and Business Lunches ∙ Pre Theatre Package ∙ Catering & Event Management Private Dining Room (upstairs) ∙ Take-away Service (by request) Open: Monday to Friday 12pm to 2pm and Monday to Saturday 5.30pm to 10pm

Tel: 01902 427762 / 01902 311991 or Email: table@thebilash.co.uk

www.thebilash.co.uk

2 Cheapside, Wolverhampton, WV1 1TU (opposite The Civic Centre)

BOTTOMLESS PROSECCO AFTERNOON TEA The Shrewsbury Arms High Street Albrighton WV7 3LA

01902 373003

THE

www.theshrewsburyarms.com

SHREWSBURY ARMS

BOOKINGS TAKEN FROM 12 - 4PM TERMS & CONDITIONS

£24.95

PER PERSON Available 7 days a week

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All Tables have a 3 hour time slot for the bottomless Prosecco. Deposits required for tables of 10 or more. All members of the party must be booked and confirmed on the same deal. ie - if a party of 10 is booked, ALL guests must pay for bottomless Prosecco. We are unable to mix and match deals within a party. The deal includes Afternoon Tea (a selection of cakes, sandwiches and a scone with clotted cream and jam) per person, plus unlimited Prosecco. Please note that the Afternoon Tea is not limitless and should more food be required, a charge will be made at the time of ordering. All parties are welcome to stay within the building after their 3 hour time slot, but may be asked to move to a different area, depending on business levels. We want all customers to enjoy our deal, but urge everyone to act responsibly. Available for over 18’s only. We reserve the right to refuse alcohol to anyone unable to produce a valid ID card. No refunds will be given in this instance. Not available on the 24th, 25th, 26th and 31st December 2017.

The New Year brings exciting new plans wine and gin tastings, guided tours, and vintage high teas to name a few. The knowledgeable shop staff are always happy to help you find the right gift for any occasion, and even sample some of the wine and gin ranges with you!

After their busiest ever year, and almost ten years of planning, work is underway to expand Halfpenny Green’s restaurant.

service staff. Places are limited, and booking is necessary by calling the restaurant on 01384 221122. If you’re too busy celebrating to be able to make it, fear not – the Wine Estate’s restaurant is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, sandwiches, cakes and drinks.

Work is taking place throughout January to extend the restaurant area, along with the service counter, which will create fantastic spaces for diners to enjoy picturesque views of the South Staffordshire countryside. During this period, the restaurant will be offering a limited menu and service from the Wine House, a purpose built function room adjacent to the restaurant’s car park. Normal restaurant service and menus are due to resume from Saturday 20th January 2018, ready for the build up to a busy spring schedule!

If you’re stuck for gift ideas for Mother’s Day, the shop may be the perfect place for you. With an entire floor dedicated to wine and gins, a personalised wine labelling service, and a range of pre-made gift hampers available (with custommade hampers also available), there’s no excuse to pass up on the perfect gift this March! The shop also offers gift vouchers for a range of experiences, including

Looking for something custom made, or perhaps a commission? The Craft Centre at Halfpenny Green Wine Estate may 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. Many of the businesses offer bespoke services and commissions, perfect for a special gift. Head to www.halfpenny-green-vineyards. 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. The park is open on weekends throughout the winter, plus February half-term and the Easter school holidays. It’s the perfect place for the whole family, so if you haven’t experienced everything English wine has to offer yet, put Halfpenny Green Wine Estate at the top of your list in 2018!

Speaking of spring events, there’s no better place to celebrate Mother’s Day than Halfpenny Green Wine Estate this March. On Sunday 11th, the restaurant will be serving a special three course menu, the perfect way to treat the special woman in your life and let her put her feet up! The delicious menu is created by the head chef and available for one day only. Everything is cooked fresh to order, and served directly to your table by a team of friendly 88

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

AWARD-WINNING ENGLISH WINES

LOCAL PRODUCE SHOP & DELI

RESTAURANT & TEA ROOMS

U P COM I NG E V E N TS

Wine & Gin Tastings

Guided Tours

Available to book throughout the year. Gift vouchers available.

Public and private group tours available for booking in 2018. Visit the website for more information.

Mother’s Day Sunday 11th March 2018 Tables now available. Call the restaurant to book.

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

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Casino 36

C OMPET I T I ON Casino 36 offers a whole new concept in gaming and entertainment within the city, open 24-hours, 364 days a year. Not only does it have a huge live gaming floor and simply the best slot machines in the region, but it also boasts a magnificent Champagne Lounge and an atmospheric Sports Bar & Grill.

Win a 3 course meal and a bottle of wine for 2 people with a £50 free bet included.

On Friday and Saturday evenings the Champagne Lounge bursts into life with a range of lip-smacking cocktails and the latest music with seating booths and of course a fine range of Champagne to choose from. It’s simply a venue unlike anything else in Wolverhampton. The Sports Bar & Grill has 13 screens showing all of the top sports action from around the world 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Four betting machines ensure you get the latest odds and can bet in play on all the sporting action. The Grill menu has all your favourite sporting dishes and the Casino 36 Tower Burger is a food challenge for anyone! An

unrivalled Sports Bar & Grill in the heart of Wolverhampton – who knew! At the heart of Casino 36 is its state of the art gaming floor and slot machines. The stunning gaming floor has 10 roulette tables and all your favourite games of blackjack, three card poker and baccarat. There are jackpots galore with chances to win on blackjack, three card poker and the electronic roulette machines. Eighty brand new slot machines with all the best games give players the chance to win up to £20,000 jackpots. Owner Adrian Ballard is rightly proud of what he has created describing Casino 36 as the perfect place to “Escape to the Action.” He continues “Where else can you watch sport, enjoy a cocktail and the excitement of the gaming floor in one place? Casino 36 truly is the Midland’s premier Casino and Wolverhampton’s best kept secret”

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

How many roulette tables are available on the gaming floor? Please email your answer 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 9th February 2018. 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.

wolverhampton west magazine

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

The Shrewsbury Arms, Albrighton

By Geoff Hall

Whenever someone asks me where I like to go for a meal, I usually answer simply: a nice pub with a pretty beer garden that offers a classic British menu and a good selection of drinks. Unfortunately nowadays finding such a place is more difficult than you’d think. Too many places have specialised into a niche area that is only interested in the “wow factor”, with a flashy this and a gimmicky that. The Shrewsbury Arms in Albrighton is not like that though – it’s far better. This pub covers all the bases and has for a number of years now since its renovation in 2013 been one of my local favourites,

so when I heard that ‘the Shrew’ had a new chef and a new menu, I just had to try it for myself. Me and my partner, Gisella went along to see just how the pub has managed to create – and maintain – such a buzz after so many years on Albrighton High Street. Located on the edge of the village, it has stood proudly for many years, opposite St Mary Magdelene’s Church. It offers ample parking to visitors and really looks the part from the roadside. It’s a dark wintry day today but inside it looks very inviting as we peer through the cute, oldy-worldy windows. We can’t wait to get inside.

We enter from the car park into a busy bar area, which is smart and upmarket. This is far from the stereotypical “old man’s watering hole”, this place is vibrant and

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Herb Butter.’ The food, we agree, is delicious and I’m so glad I tried the lamb (it was between that and the venison) because it is moist, wellcooked and full of taste. You can tell that only the finest and freshest local produce goes into creating these wonderful delights, which can be enjoyed all day, every day from 12 noon in the bar, restaurant or garden – if it’s not too cold! This is food to make even the most fussy, snootiest palate awash with water.

buzzing. I imagine when there’s live music on Friday and Saturday evenings the place really rocks. Inside a warm and cosy feel greets us and doesn’t let go for the rest of the evening. Clearly a lot of money has been spent on transforming this building, especially in the restaurant. The decor is stylish without being “over the top” and the mood screams elegant dining. But this classy feel doesn’t feel stuffy, it’s more like somewhere you could dress up for if you wanted to, but equally you could also turn up in jeans and a T-shirt without feeling out of place. This is something that is important to me, as I was basically born wearing trainers. And if you think the restaurant’s look prepares you for a treat, then wait until you read the menu: it’s right up my street. Full of the very best, seasonal treats, new head chef Peter Freemantle has made a menu that is comprehensive and mouth-watering. The menu caters for all tastes. The quality and presentation of the food is of “Masterchef” standard and comes in good-sized portions. Surely it won’t be long before this place is recognised by an AA rosette or two – or better. Hello, Michelin guide!

Spinach, Bacon Lardons, White Wine Cream Sauce’ (£9.25). Both dishes are so good they cause us to pick from each other’s plates – my sticky little sausages prove especially irresistible, and when there’s as many as this, there’s plenty to go around. We both smile and gasp at the creativity behind the idea of serving the scallops on a bed of actual seashells and send our praise back to the kitchen. Can’t wait for the mains. I go for a new item on the menu ‘Braised Lamb Shoulder, Dauphinoise Potatoes, Green Beans, Carrot Puree, Lamb Gravy’ (£15.75) and Gisella goes for an old favourite, ‘Marinated Chicken Kebab’ (£13.70), which is complemented by ‘Thin Chips, Red Cabbage Slaw and Garlic and

Next up is dessert and when we check out the choices we know we are onto a winner because as always The Shrewsbury Arms doesn’t disappoint, in fact we never, ever leave without dessert, no matter how many courses we’ve had. My choice is ‘Sticky Toffee Pudding Toffee Sauce, Butterscotch Ice cream’ (£5.75) and Gisella’s is ‘Vanilla Crème Brulee Plum & Ginger Compote, Buttered Shortbread’ (£5.75). “Yum” sums mine up, “Mmm” is hers’ in a nutshell. The atmosphere is very lively as it’s a busy Thursday night but the staff handle it really well. After our meal we return to the bar area for a few more drinks, while our meals sink. Overall we felt very welcome all evening and can’t wait to return. The Shrewsbury Arms, High Street, Albrighton WV7 3LA. To make a reservation please call 01902 373003 or email: theshrewsburyarms@gmail.com www.theshrewsburyarms.com

The young, polite, extremely smartly attired staff instantly make us feel at home. We order drinks from a funky cocktail menu that boasts only the very best Saturday night faves, and I start with ‘Honey Glazed Chipolatas, Chorizo Ketchup’ (£5.50) and Gisella goes for ‘King Scallops, Wilted www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Have you been thinking about having your teeth straightened? Regardless of your age and the simplicity or complexity of the position of your teeth, we can help you with our 14 years of teeth straightening experience. We have different options. Invisalign : Clear and removable aligners Metal and White Brackets : Fixed to the outside of your teeth. Lingual Brackets : Fixed to the inside of your teeth. 94

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Halfway House, Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton plus three practices in Telford Straightening: Invisalign (Platinum Provider) and Metal or White Brackets Implants: Single teeth to full arch and bridges (See pages 126-127 for details)

So, where do I start? Firstly, call us to arrange a free consultation, an initial chat about what you are looking to achieve. We will answer any questions you may have and discuss the payment options available. An orthodontic assessment will need to be completed, then this will lead to the discussion to which options are right for you. Everyone is unique so only at this stage will we recommend the optimum course of treatment, specifically tailored to improving your smile. Ted Baker ÂŁ159

Please see pages 126 and 127 for implant information. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Whitening: Zoom in Chair and Home Whitening Private general and cosmetic dentistry: Exam / Check ups Hygiene Visits with Air Flow Facial Aesthetics: Wrinkle Correction and Fillers HydraFacial: Skin Health For Life, Acne and Black Heads, Derma Builder

Book your consultation today: 01902 713 700 thesmileworks.com info@ thesmileworks.com

Halfway House, 151 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton WV3 9NJ

Personal training at

Chis Jewkes Fitness gets results, fact.

Clients at Chris Jewkes Fitness achieve real results and that’s thanks to the centre’s highly skilled team of personal trainers who focus on ensuring long term success for their clients, not just a quick fix. As Manager, Ellis Bailey explains: “At Chris Jewkes 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.” Equipped with this knowledge, clients at Chris Jewkes are then able to make the right choices both now and in the future. “The skills they acquire will ensure they’ll be able to maintain the results of their weight loss in the long term.” And Ellis employs a useful tool to guarantee that his clients are giving thought to what they’re consuming throughout the day.

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“We ask our clients to keep a food diary, it’s a really good way of making them stop and think about what they’re eating as well as making them accountable,” adds Ellis. In addition, the team make use of social media and facebook groups to inspire and motivate clients to make healthy meal choices. Keen to make personal training something that’s accessible for everyone, owner Chris Jewkes has carefully selected each member of his team to bring a unique and different approach, so that

clients can be matched with the trainer that suits them best. “Every one of our twelve trainers has a different personality, a unique approach to personal training and a skill set that’s individual to them. They also differ greatly in age too,” explains Chris. Whether you’re striving to achieve a weight-loss goal, improve your fitness, sculpt your dream body or even build strength following surgery, the team at the Tettenhall-based personal training centre will meet your needs. “Over the seven years we’ve been in business we’ve realised

that the way to ensure success is to treat every client as an individual. We believe that personal training is simply for everyone.” And it’s this approach that has been so instrumental in making the fitness centre the success it is today. “I’m really lucky to have such a diverse and highly skilled team of personal trainers working for me, each one is a great communicator, passionate about what they do and keen to see their clients succeed.” So, why not call Chris Jewkes Fitness today to meet the trainer that’ll help you to achieve your fitness and weight-loss goals this New Year? Chris Jewkes Fitness, Danescourt Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9BQ. For further details please call 01902 750355. www.chrisjewkesfitness.com

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More aMazing coMpetition success for

‘Ghostly Spirit Collection’, Royston Blythe and Charles Douek beat off fierce competition from the hairdressing industry’s elite. At the dazzling award ceremony held in Birmingham, National Hairdressing Federation President Agnes Leonard commented on the salon’s success: “Winning such a respected competition is a true reflection of a stylist’s talent and Royston and Charles should be extremely proud of what they have achieved.” Royston Blythe is regularly recognised for its exceptional hairdressing talent and photographic collections and has held many regional titles, including Midlands Hairdresser of the Year and L’Oréal Colour Trophy. Unsurprisingly, Royston, Nick and the team are ecstatic with their latest success and are delighted to have been named as the British Winner in the National Hairdressing Federation awards, as Royston

Adding to their already full catalogue of amazing competition success, the Royston Blythe team have yet another reason to celebrate as they’ve just been named national winners at the highly acclaimed National Hairdressing Federation Awards. Recognising their outstanding contribution to the hairdressing industry, the multi-award winning salon – owned by Royston Blythe and Nick Malenko - won the award for British Photographic Female Fashion Collection of the Year 2017. Wowing a panel of judges - made up of some of the most influential and respected hair influencers from around the world – with their 98

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regional L’Oréal Colour Trophy for the second consecutive year – we’re really proud of Sophie and Charles who both began their careers with us many years ago.” The entire Royston Blythe team – at both the Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury salons– as well as the salon’s loyal customers are all absolutely delighted to hear of yet another well-deserved victory. There’s no doubt that they’ll be plenty more success to come for Royston Blythe in the very near future. Watch this space.

explains: “It is wonderful news and we are absolutely thrilled. 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.” Indeed, it is a real accolade for the salon as the National Hairdressing Federation is the industry’s most influential and powerful organisation, respected by hairdressers and salon owners across the UK. “Last year we were announced as winners of the Midlands Hairdressers of the Year award for the third time which was fantastic and we’ve also won the

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

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Aristocats

Autumn/Winter 2017 Sale

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

SALE STARTS

Friday 5th January 2018 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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Mind BaBBle

It’s the New Year and this is when we take the opportunity to plan changes and create a new start. I’m sure many of you will start January with exciting new ideas and goals for the future. The question is, by March, how’s it going?!

There are lots of articles on the Internet about how to set goals and change your life. In fact, I spent a rainy afternoon looking for inspiration and new ideas to add to my mental filing cabinet. Most of these are a variation on a theme; different ways to approach the same subject. So I looked back on 2017 to see what I had achieved and how many goals and dreams I had fulfilled. I have to say, I was quite surprised! Of all the things that I had set out to do at the beginning of 2017, I had achieved nearly all of them! I set my goals for a new year over the Christmas period, although I have an on going ‘Big Picture’ plan. I have a process to create a flexible goal setting strategy, however, the one thing that I found was the most powerful tool for me, is a vision board. If you don’t know what a vision board is, it’s a collection of images and bits and bobs, that represent

your dreams and goals. There are lots of examples on Pinterest. Surprisingly, there is a precise science behind the most successful vision boards. If any of you have seen the film, or read the book ‘The Secret’, this is a good start to how to manifest your hearts desire. My vision board had images of the people I wanted to work with, the places I wanted to travel to and the figure I wanted to earn. I also had inspirational quotes and other things that had meaning. I use a piece of A4 card (in a pretty colour) as I want it big enough to be obvious, but small enough not to get in the way. You can put whatever you like on a vision board, as long as it is personal to you and represents your goals for the year.

Once you have created the board, place it somewhere you will see it every day – I have mine on my bathroom mirror. I also have a photo of it on my phone as a screen saver. Your brain has an internal setting that is like your own personal Google; the reticular activating system. When you see something and attach some emotion to it, your brain will search for it. It will make you more likely to notice when an opportunity arises to take action towards your goals. If your curious about how to make a vision board and the science that makes them effective, have a look on my website for the next Law of Attraction Vision Board workshop.

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

Some of the issues I work with: Anxiety • Stress • Phobias • Self Sabotage • Limiting Beliefs • Fear • Low Self Esteem • Weight Management I run ‘at home’ VIP courses for weight management and my Platinum one to one fast track course for people with limited free time. I am available as a speaker for events and fundraisers and I hold regular courses and Wellness Yoga days throughout the year.

Find out more at mindbabble.co.uk

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

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Phone: 07980 541271 email: change@mindbabble.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine

L o o k g o r g e o u s , f e e l g r e at

Doll Aesthetics Whether you’re 18 or 80 years old it’s easy to look – and feel – fantastic thanks to the highly trained team at Doll Aesthetics. The nurse-led facial aesthetics company offers anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers from clinics in Wolverhampton and Birmingham, and has quickly established a loyal client base. As owner, Katie Hubball explains: “Here at Doll we don’t think it’s enough to simply be qualified to do the job. We are perfectionists. Our passion for aesthetics, keen eye and artistic flair help us produce the results that have regular clients travelling from as far as London and Newcastle.”

And clients are delighted with the results.

“We believe everyone should be able to look and feel fabulous. It’s not just about looking young; it’s about looking good for your age and enhancing your existing beauty.” The focus at Doll is completely on the client, that’s why the team spend time during the consultation process to understand every individual’s needs. “We ensure each client gets a full and thorough examination prior to treatment - which includes their medical history – as this enables us to treat each client individually.” Of course, all consultations are free of charge and without obligation. “We work with the client, listening and advising them to create a tailor-made plan using only the most trusted brands of products, to achieve the best results.”

There’s also an extensive aftercare service: “We’re contactable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to offer reassurance and support.”

Safety is a high priority for the company and the team are fully insured and have undergone aesthetic training at a leading academy for medical professionals. “We have a wide understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the face, combined with knowledge of what to do in the event of any adverse reactions or emergencies.” The team also regularly attend seminars, exhibitions and conferences to continue their learning, stay-up-to-date and enhance their expertise. So, whether you want to freshen-up your look, make a subtle tweak or maybe opt for a more glam transformation, get in touch with the team to start your aesthetics journey today.

MOTHERS AND DAUGHTERS! WE HAVE TEAMED UP WITH THE LUMINAIRE CLINIC FOR A FABULOUS COMPETITION! HEAD OVER TO OUR INSTAGRAM AND FACEBOOK FOR DETAILS! GOOD LUCK! DOLL_AESTHETICS WEAREDOLLAESTHETICS 07956 150536 | 01902 793389 WWW.DOLLAESTHETICS.CO.UK

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The revolutionary non-surgical face & body skin tightening and lifting treatment. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no price on how beauty makes you feel!

info@theluminaireclinic.com | 01902 793387 | www.theluminaireclinic.co.uk @theluminaireclinic

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@theluminaireclinic

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Luminaire have something special to share it’s time for some TLC! Professional-Skin-Ambassadors and Fully Trained, Nurse led Clinic, of the revolutionary High-Intensity-Focused-Ultrasound technology, are about to deliver a touch of Celebrity Endorsed beauty treatments, in our Wolverhampton Clinic. This latest technology is the difference between looking your age or the essence of everlasting and ageless skin. This astounding technology has been tested and proven to offer the following:

Luminaire, the skin specialists, ready to bring back the very best in you. For more info contact: 01902 793387

•The stimulation of natural collagen. •Regenerating natural elasticity in the skin. •No anaesthetic or invasive surgery required. •No high-level risks or lengthy recovery time. •Noticeable treatment - with instant results. •One treatment that can last one – three years. •Continuous repair & rejuvenation. (For up to 3- 6 months after treatment).

Or visit our social media pages: @theluminaireclinic @theluminaireclinic Bookings are now being taken for January 2018.

So what makes our service special and unique? Luminaire procedures are achieved within a few hours (dependent on speciﬁcation) achieving maximum results. You are then able to return back to normality with minimal fuss and disruption. We pride ourselves in delivering high quality treatments & aftercare. See the evidence for yourself…

Before

After

Before

After

EXCITING NEWS Join our mother and daughter campaign! Luminaire and Doll Aesthetics have collaborated to offer a fabulous give away of Treatment worth up to £2000! For a chance of winning, head over to our Instagram and/or Facebook page. @theluminaireclinic @theluminaireclinic Terms & conditions apply.

info@theluminaireclinic.com | 01902 793387 | www.theluminaireclinic.co.uk Bredon House, 321 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton WV6 0JZ

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Amazing results with Heaven’s Bee Sting Facial

It’s the facial that has earned a legion of celebrity fans across the globe and amazed women of all ages thanks to its incredible results, so it’s no surprise that our Sales Director, Gisella Wiley couldn’t wait to try Deborah Mitchell’s famous facial for herself. “I’ve heard so much about the Bee Sting facial over the years and have always wanted to try it out,” says Gisella. Already a regular at Deborah Mitchell’s beautiful Shifnal-based beauty salon Heaven, Gisella has previously been amazed by the results of the salon’s exclusive Lipolis 7 – a slimming and skin rejuvenation device – and so, had the same high expectations for Heaven’s Bee Sting Facial. “I always look forward to my appointments at Heaven, it’s a gorgeous salon, Deborah’s team are great at what they do and the treatments are incredible.” Designed to relieve modern day stresses and remedy bad posture – that’s frequently caused by working at a computer, texting, and a sedentary lifestyle - the Bee Sting Facial repositions the skull and jaw, helping to realign the rest of the body, which in turn releases tension and makes you look and feel younger. And, the unique techniques used throughout the facial have been developed by Deborah Mitchell herself and are exclusive to Heaven. “Before the treatment I had a consultation with Therapist, Alex Whitear to establish my skin type and discuss what would take place during the facial.” Using Deborah’s natural and organic products – including patented ingredient ABEETOXIN® - combined with a series of hands-on techniques that work to relax facial muscle tissue to 108

firm and tighten, Alex ensured the best results for Gisella. “The results were fantastic, the anti-ageing effect was instant and my skin looked – and felt – incredibly youthful. The treatment was extremely relaxing, especially as it included a foot massage that targets nerve endings in the spine.” The Bee Sting facial is perfect for those looking for natural anti-ageing effects, without the need for any syringes. “It’s amazing that a facial can provide such incredible youth boosting results that it can rival Botox, but naturally.” And that’s thanks to the topical application of bee-venom – which is present in Deborah’s revolutionary patented formula; ABEETOXIN® – that has been clinically proven to increase collagen production by up to 300%.

What’s more, it’s suitable for everyone because there have been no known allergic reactions to ABEETOXIN® - even amongst people allergic to bee stings. All of the products used during the treatment - cleansers, toners, masks and serums – were prescribed to meet Gisella’s specific skin needs and served to increase collagen whilst reducing sun damage and pigmentation. “I’ve booked in at the salon for another facial in a month’s time – I can’t wait,” adds Gisella. So, whether you want to turn back the clock on your ageing skin this new year, treat your loved one to something special for Valentine’s Day or maybe find the perfect present for Mum this Mother’s Day, you can depend on Heaven’s Bee Venom facial to provide amazing results all round.

Heaven by Deborah Mitchell, 13a Market Place, Shifnal, TF11 9AU Tel: 01952 461 888 www.heavenskincare.com

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Latest eyewEAR trends

at Taylor Biddle Glasses can make a huge difference to the way you look, so it’s important to wear a style that enhances your facial features and reflects your personality. At Taylor Biddle Opticians you can find hundreds of different designs and our team is specially trained to help you select frames that really suit you.

One of the new trends for 2018 transparent frames from designers such as Oliver Peoples look great on almost anyone and, due to lack of colour, will look perfect with any outfit. Retro inspired, modern and classic designs will guarantee a stylish look for both men and women.

The latest eyewear fashion styles are bolder and bigger featuring unique finishes, with colours ranging from two tone contrasts to classic brown, black and tortoiseshell.

Of course the lenses in your glasses are important and will also affect your appearance. Thicker lenses, usually needed for a high prescription, are unsightly. Fortunately, modern lenses (highindex) are thinner and lighter, making your spectacles look better as well as more lightweight and comfortable to wear.

Nevertheless, rimless and semi rimless designs such as those by Lindberg and Silhouette still remain popular as they offer a stylish, minimalistic look with lightweight and great peripheral vision.

For those who need both near and distance vision correction, varifocal lenses are usually the best choice, as they don’t have the obvious dividing line of bifocals. Those very few who don’t adjust

to varifocals can rest assured with our 30 day exchange guarantee. Your glasses may also benefit from having anti- reflective coating on the lenses, which virtually eliminates the light reflected from a lens surface thus making your glasses more attractive. Taylor Biddle team will spend however long it takes to understand your eye care needs and select the best lenses and frames to suit your lifestyle and budget. So, as well as looking great, we will ensure that your glasses are comfortable and well fitted - which is paramount in spectacle wearers of all ages.

& many more Your Local Family Opticians Full eye examinations Ocular health checks The latest eye scanning OCT technology Visual Dyslexia Colorimetry assessments New 2018 designer collections now in stock

SPECIAL OFFER:

80% off occupational lenses with every purchase of premium varifocals. £100 off selected Lindberg frames. (T&C’s apply, offer ends 28th February 2018)

www.taylorbiddleopticians.co.uk 39 Bridgnorth Road, Compton Tel: 01902 750 325 34 Windmill Bank, Wombourne Tel: 01902 895 909 110

wolverhampton west magazine

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.

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.

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.

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 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 & February 2018.

1 off treatment remain at £150.

570 Penn Road Penn Wolverhampton WV4 4HU

Clinically led with all procedures carried out by qualified staff New! LED Opera Mask (skin rejuvenation) as used by

celebrities, only available at Cosmetique for the West Midlands area.

Special offer until end of February £150 Now £49 • • • • • •

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 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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S a v v y

Sale Shopping Models wear Laura Ashley

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January is here and that means it’s time to hit the shops and bag as many bargains as you can find.

Heels £45 Faith at Debenhams

But, before you rush out of the door to blow all of your hard-earned cash, take a minute to consider whether you’ll be spending your money wisely. There’s no doubt that it’s tempting to go a little overthe-top in the sales - it’s hard to say no to a seventy percent reduction after all - but most of the time you’ll be buying for the sake of it, and those reduced bargains may never even see the light of day. That’s why we’ve compiled a guide to savvy sale shopping; we want to give you the low-down on what to look-out for this January, so that you’ll be delighted with your purchases for months to come.

Scarf £55 Dune

Quality Not Quantity It’s worth waiting until the sales to purchase more expensive winter items; like a good pair of boots or a quality tailored coat. Holding back until January means that you’ll get far more for your money if you’ve got a budget. Look in stores that you would normally avoid on the basis of price, everywhere will have reductions and you might just find a high-end item that’s surprisingly affordable. Although it’s nice to return home with bags of bargains, it’s better to buy a couple of investment pieces that will still look great next winter.

Plain and Simple Look for simple, classic, wearable styles that flatter your body shape on the sale rails. For example, a well-cut, plain black dress will never date and can be accessorised to suit any occasion all year round. The same principle applies to trousers, skirts and tops; choosing classic looks over fussy designs makes for real savvy sale shopping.

Always Accessorise

Handbag £175 Guess

Designer accessories are best bought in the sale. If there’s a handbag that you’ve been lusting after all year, treat yourself when it’s reduced, but just make sure that you’re quick, they’ll be plenty of women waiting to get their hands on it as well. Don’t forget those all-important practical winter accessorises too: leather gloves and cashmere scarves will be priced to go too.

Boutique Bargains Why not start your hunt for fabulous fashion finds close to home this January? You’ll be amazed at what your local independent fashion retailers have to offer. And what’s more, you won’t have to face big crowds or endless queues, leaving you more time to enjoy shopping. Perfect. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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SP INAL SERVICES SNOW BALL Two New Nuffield Spinal Surgeons Appointed

Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital

Consultant spinal surgeons Mr Panteleimon Papanikolaou and Mr Khalid Saeed have recently joined the spinal team at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital, with a snowball effect of boosting spinal services for private patients, bringing the number of spinal consultants to five. Originally Panteleimon Papanikolaou comes from Greece, where he attended school, then qualified in Rome and completed his specialty training in Athens. His neurosurgery fellowships were at the Walton Centre, Liverpool and in Newcastle upon Tyne. He is fluent in three languages, these being English, Greek and Italian. His NHS consultant practice is split between Royal Wolverhampton Hospital and University Hospital of North Midlands, Stoke on Trent, where he has been based for the last four years.

Khalid Saeed was born in Lahore, Pakistan where he undertook his medical education and junior doctor roles, gaining two merit scholarships there. In 1990, he moved to Ireland and obtained Higher Surgical qualification from the Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland and moved to the UK in 1995. His spinal fellowships were at Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham and the Walton Centre, Liverpool as well as completing a visiting fellowship in Phoenix, Arizona. In addition to English, he is fluent in Punjabi and Urdu. He has experience of working in hospitals in the North West, Southampton and Swansea and his NHS consultant post is New Cross Hospital, where he has worked for the last seven years. The spinal disorders service at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital extends from advice and joint injections through to treatment with keyhole surgery and major open surgery to reconstruct the spine. Both Mr Saeed and Papanikolaou’s specialist areas are degenerative disease of the spine, including sciatica, leg pain, slipped disc and spinal stenosis, neck and arm pain, spondylolisthesis and sponylolysis. Mr Papanikolaou has specific expertise in spine trauma

Mr Khalid Saeed, new consultant spinal surgeon at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital

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and spinal tumours. Mr Saeed is experienced in treating spinal pain with vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty for osteoporotic fractures and various injection techniques. Explaining that the results of spinal surgery are now far better than people realise, Mr Papanikolaou says “Sometimes the assessment will show that generalised back pain is a result of wear and tear and, following tests, the patient can be reassured that the problem isn’t anything more serious. Over time, we are seeing more conditions related to age, such as spinal stenosis, a complaint caused by pressure on the nerves in the lower back – this causes pain when walking. “ Mr Saeed adds, “Spinal surgery has improved over the last 10 years and many procedures such as those for trapped nerves have a 90% success rate. Patients with sciatica typically go to their GP with severe leg pain and possible numbness. The most common cause is a herniated disc pressing against the nerves in the back. Where surgery is necessary, this involves a very small incision and a small part of the disc is shaved away, giving the patient instant pain relief.” For a taste of what’s available, there are regular free events at the hospital in Tettenhall. On the evening of Thursday 1 March 2018, there will be a presentation on Spinal Problems with specialist consultant Mr Papanikolaou. To book early for this, or to find out about other patient-focused events, please ring 01902 793269.

Mr Panteleimon Papanikolaou, new consultant spinal surgeon at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital

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Louise Meets Martine

Cambridge Weight Plan Of course, this treatment wasn’t just reserved for Martine, with CWP everyone benefits from the same dedicated one-to-one support from their own Consultant. “CWP has been brilliant with the medical side of things and the fact everyone has their own Consultant is superb. “I have an underactive thyroid and suffer from ME, but CWP took all of that into account. It’s not a one size fits all diet: it’s shaped to fit each person’s needs. You have different steps you can follow and between them, the medical help and my Consultant, I have felt in very safe hands.” Martine admits trying all sorts of diets over the years. Her illnesses have made losing weight difficult for her.

Independent Cambridge Weight Plan Consultant, Louise Peck, was delighted to receive a VIP invitation to Cambridge Weight Plan’s Annual Convention, which was held in November 2017 at The International Centre, Telford. On the day there were plenty of success stories to be heard, including an inspiring tale from singer, songwriter, actress and Loose Women presenter, Martine McCutcheon. Despite living with chronic illnesses - myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), Lyme disease and an underactive thyroid – Martine has achieved her weight loss goals with the Cambridge Weight Plan (CWP). Martine, who has a two year old son, Rafferty, has been CWP’s Ambassador this last year and was keen to share her experience. As she explains: “It took me five weeks with CWP to lose my 116

goal target of one stone and I’ve felt really proud being an Ambassador for the Brand. “At my biggest I was a size 15 after having Rafferty; now I’m around a size 12. And that was great for me: I was never aiming for a size 6.” “I’m confident in my skin and a weight that I can maintain; I didn’t want to go for a crazy goal – I’m a woman in her 40s with so much more confidence than I had in my 20s when I was absolutely tiny because I danced all the time, but I didn’t know who I was. “I am really happy with my body and the fact that I’ve lost a stone on CWP, 21 inches and gone down a dress size-and-a-half in just five weeks is just amazing.” And Martine was bowled over by the one-to-one support she received from her CWP Consultant, Donna Newbold, who she visited each week for weigh-ins, measurements and confidential advice, and who was always on the end of the phone if she needed her.

“The best thing about CWP is its simplicity. It used to do my head in on other diets, thinking about what I could and couldn’t have. You grab and go on this. There’s no excuse to be hungry,” adds Martine. As a highly trained, Highly Commended Consultant, Louise is adept at helping clients with medical conditions achieve their weight loss goals and she was thrilled to meet Martine and hear her story. So, whatever your aims, contact Louise today to start your own success story.

t: 07790 982 888

e: loupeck1@googlemail.com CWPLouisePeck CWPLouisePeck CWPLouisePeck

*The weight lost and time frames are particular to this slimmer. Everyone’s weight-loss journey is unique to them

wolverhampton west magazine

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.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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

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

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Make positive changes in 2018

with Wiser Horizons

As we move into the early part of 2018, many will have made New Years resolutions.

A renewed drive towards a goal they feel will make a positive impact in their life. Commonly, these include losing weight, stopping smoking, giving up alcohol, taking up a new hobby, etc. But by the time you read this, many will have already run out of willpower and given in! Willpower is a conscious finite resource. It starts off strong but begins to dwindle as the days go on and if it is being used to battle against a negative belief, then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only a matter of time before it runs out completely. We all have a set of beliefs about ourselves that have built up over the course of our lives. These beliefs sit within our unconscious mind and sadly, more often than not, these beliefs limit us. However, beliefs can be changed.

So, what is hypnosis and what can it do for you? Hypnosis is a state of deep relaxation, an altered state of awareness (during which you are fully in control) whereby the conscious mind is bypassed in order for direct communication with the unconscious. Whilst in this relaxed state, the unconscious mind becomes very receptive to positive suggestions of change. This year make an investment in yourself and see just how far your new beliefs can take you!

For any more details please call us or visit our website.

At Wiser Horizons, we use a combined therapeutic approach of NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) and Hypnotherapy to help you change your beliefs from limiting to empowering. We put you at the centre of your therapy and build a plan that you can trust and believe in, helping you create well-formed goals and giving you the tools to achieve them.

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Looking for something

with a difference?

Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis & Squash Club is a unique club which has a fantastic fitness aspect.

Anyone can join whether they have sporting background or not, the club is a superb way to improve your health and well-being. Being a member allows you to use the tennis, squash and racketball facilities. It also entitles you to use of the gym. Although tennis and squash are the club’s core sports, fitness is a highly important part of the club’s community. Fully trained staff with years of experience can exceed your expectations with professional personal training. They will work with you to give you a programme that is personal to you and will give guidance on how to improve your

fitness and train your body; whatever your goal may be. Your first session of personal training will be free worth £35 and follow on sessions are discounted for members. The club members get involved with lots of fitness activities and challenges outside of the club such as bike rides, runs and social walks in addition to raising funds for local charities. The club has a real family emphasis and can be your second home.

We have 11 classes delivered by the Energize fitness team that are free to members, but nonmembers are more than welcome to come along at only a small cost. The classes include boxercise, pilates, circuits and tabata.

The classes are extremely popular and attended by members from 12-80 years old with classes to suit all fitness levels.

The club is home to a multi functional gym with a variety of machines that allow you to work on any specific exercise. We also have another gym space called ‘the pit’ which is a more private workout area, focussing on functional fitness.

NEW YEAR OFFERS • • • • • •

INDOOR TENNIS TENNIS GYM BAR & RESTAURANT STUDIO SQUASH/RACKETBALL

Bring this voucher with you to the club when you sign up for our membership deals and you can receive some great extra offers: • • •

Free Personal Training Session Free Tennis or Squash/Racketball Lesson Free meal for 2 in the Restaurant

T&C’S apply: membership offers are only available for new members

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

£5 off

each monthly direct debit fee on any membership category over 21 years

£50 off

any membership category over 21 years and paid in full for 12 months

To find out more call:

01902 755265 119

MAKE 2018 YOUR YEAR!

Choose to be fit and healthy, choose South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres

South Staffordshire Council provide 4 leisure centres which include Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne and you can join any one and use the other three sites at no extra charge.

suit everyone. As a member, you can request a FREE health check to help you get started and a personal fitness programme to help determine your goals and get you on the right track.

there are no long term contracts and no cancellation fees.

Join South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres in the New Year and if you join before 5th January, get your first month for just £10!

Memberships are flexible and affordable with prices starting from just £20 per month, that’s just £5 per week! For this small cost, you will get access to all areas including the gyms, a huge range of exercise classes, swimming pools, toning suites and the indoor cycling studios.

We also provide a discounted scheme for people who need to take regular exercise to improve health. This scheme is called ‘Forward to Health’ and is a 12 week programme consisting of regular consultations with one of our fitness experts who will help and advise you along the way. There is certain criteria in order to be eligible for this discounted scheme including high blood pressure and a high BMI.

The facilities are friendly and we welcome all ages and abilities, with sessions and activities to

The leisure centres are open to both members and non-members, however we charge no joining fees,

To find out more about our memberships and the Forward to Health scheme visit www.sstaffs.gov.uk/leisure

CALL NOW Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre Codsall Leisure Centre Penkridge Leisure Centre Wombourne Leisure Centre

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01922 01902 01785 01902

417790 844032 714152 898202

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The benefits

of fitness classes

Many people regularly exercise in gyms, swimming pools and outdoors, covering activities such as running, swimming and weight training, but few incorporate 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 if it’s something they’ve not done before, or are worried in case they cannot keep up with the class. In fact, classes can shorten the time it takes to reach your fitness goal, 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.

or if you’re looking to progress and want more of a challenge.

new challenges and give you inspiration for your own workouts.

Motivation

Socialising

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 to achieve their fitness goals can motivate you further, making you want to work harder. Instructor encouragement and enthusiasm is also a benefit of attending fitness classes.

Variety 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

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 start to socialise before and after their workout sessions. Leading on from this, 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

The Health and Fitness Team at WV Active have many reasons why you should add regular fitness classes to your exercise routine.

Instructors 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, 122

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CHIROPODY & PODIATRY CLINICS

HCPC/STATE REGISTERED

Tom Casey BSc (Hons), MCHS, SRCH Margaret Kennedy BSc (Hons), MCHS, SRCH

Treatments for: Nails, callus, corns, verrucas Diabetic & arthritic feet Heel and forefoot pain Ingrown toenails & nail surgery Functional & biomechanical issues Conditions needing orthotics/insoles

• Friendly Personal Service • Medical Centre Facilities • Secure Parking • Disabled Access • Centrally located • Home Visits Available Presentations & talks are available to interested groups.

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Park Avenue Clinic 13a Park Avenue Wolverhampton WV1 4AH For an appointment or to book a home visit please call Tom Casey on 07828 613165 or 01902 833426 For other surgery appointments please call or visit: Six Ways Clinic 24 Birmingham Road Walsall WS1 2LT 01922 622521 Albrighton For home visits, please call: 01902 754377 or 07917 520199

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Tom’s tip: Knee Pain (Patello-femoral Pain Syndrome) The patella of a healthy knee should track in a straight line. In PFPS it often tracks laterally, as shown. Patello-femoral pain (knee pain) can occur in one or both knees and it is one of the most common causes of knee pain. Patellofemoral pain is felt in the front or slightly inside of the knee and occurs when the patella (knee cap) is compressed against the femoral groove.

The compression forces increase the further the knee is bent and as a result pain usually increases as well. Therefore, patello-femoral pain may be made worse by activities that involve repetitive bending of the knee. Pain is often felt going up or down stairs or after sitting for long periods of time. Patello-femoral pain can be accompanied by “clicking” or “grinding” and sometimes by a feeling that the knee “catches” or wants to “give way”. The primary cause of knee pain is excessive pronation (rolling in of the foot). This can be controlled via orthotics/ insoles. People suffering with

WOLVERHAMPTON HIP

knee pain whom have been forced to live with the pain, no longer have to put up with this condition while standing, walking or running when provided with appropriate orthotics/insoles. Seek an assessment with a Podiatrist who can diagnose the condition and provide a unique orthotic for the individual. Further, strengthening the knee via muscle exercises (especially the VMO muscle) will help prevent further re-occurrence. Clinical studies and field research verify the value of orthotics in relieving knee pain and improving the structural integrity of the knee. Flexible orthotics control foot motion without restricting function and creating compensatory movement in other structures.

Thomas Casey Chiropodist/Podiatrist HCPC registered

& KNEE CLINIC

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

MR DAVID SIMPSON CONSULTANT ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON

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

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

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Do you have problems with your dentures or a gap in your mouth? Our team has an individual approach & we treat each & every person as if they were a friend or a member of our family. We fully discuss your wants and needs to ensure that we attain your goal and meet or hopefully exceed your expectations.

Carlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team have a personal approach to helping and advising on achieving your needs. Horton Implant Team are pleased to be working with HWH. Carl, Amit & Kate have a wealth of experience regarding implants.

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Dr Carl Horton

Kate Bootman

Carl Horton is passionate about patient care and has travelled the world sharing his knowledge and lecturing extensively on treatment models and his pioneering research. After graduating from Birmingham Dental Hospital in 1996 Carl worked predominately in private general practice. He went on to complete an MSc in both periodontology and implantology. Carl, who has lectured on international platforms in San Francisco, Gothenburg and Athens, also assisted in the training of foundation stage dentists at Birmingham University, in both clinical practice and restorative procedures, as well as delivering postgraduate lectures. He is Co-director of the West Midlands MSc VSSA for dental implantology, and mentors those learning about implants.

Kate has over 26 years of experience in dentistry, starting as a Dental Assistant when she was 16. She completed the National Certificate for Dental Nursing in 2000. She achieved a BTEC Advanced Award in Dental Care Education in 2003, with Distinction. She also has a BTEC Advanced Diploma Award in Dental Care Education Co-ordination. Kate was a Practice Manager of a fully private practice for Oasis also becoming their nationwide Ambassador for Patient Care Co-ordinators (PCCs) where she enjoyed sharing her experience and training new PCCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in their roles. This allowed Kate to fully understand how to facilitate and guide patients throughout their treatment process and ensure the high level of service you should expect. In 2015 Kate took the opportunity to work along side Carl Horton, Implantologist, as an Implant Co-ordinator & Business Development Manager. She has since become a business partner of this ever expanding business.

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Dental implants are a highly long term successful treatment for replacing missing or failing teeth and can also be used to solve the problems of loose dentures. They are a simple option for restoring your smile and giving you back the confidence to smile and eat again. Dr Amit Pubari Having graduated from the University of Liverpool, Amit has been pursuing his interests in cosmetic and advanced restorative dentistry and dental implantology. Winning an award in a paper in relation to the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Golden Proportion â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the aesthetically pleasing smileâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, his attention to detail has enabled him to provide many patients with excellent cosmetic results. Amit is committed to postgraduate education and is currently completing a Diploma in Restorative Dentistry with the Royal College of Surgeons and a Masters degree in Dental Implantology. He has also completed multiple cosmetic & implant courses. Having also received training in sedation, Amit is extremely experienced in treating nervous and anxious patients in all aspects of Dentistry.

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WITH A LITTLE HELP

from our friends

Before

At the end of 2017, four members of the Paycare Team spent a whole day volunteering to support local charity The Way with a renovation project. Wolverhampton-based health cash plan provider Paycare is a Founder Patron of The Way – Wolverhampton Youth Zone. The charity, established in 2016, is a partnership between Wolverhampton City Council and local businesses aimed at supporting the needs of young people within the city. Paycare offers all its employees two paid volunteer days each year and because of the relationship with The Way, last November Emily, Ben, Bonnie and Blahar all opted to use one of their days to repaint one of The Way’s key facilities. 128

After

“The Mentoring Room is a central part of the whole mentoring programme as it is the initial space where mentees first meet their mentors. It is so important that they have access to a room that is calming and tranquil in order to maximise the effects of the one to one sessions,” explained Mentoring Lead at The Way, Billie James. “Unfortunately after two years of use the room was in a very sorry state and in real need of some TLC.” The team arrived with brushes and rollers at the ready and by the end of the day had really transformed the space. “Since the volunteers from Paycare came to help us, we have a bright and welcoming room which our mentees and mentors really enjoy spending time in,” Billie updated.

so I enjoy every day, but the day at The Way was really special – hard work but at the end of it we could see a very tangible benefit that will help to support many, many young people. It was a privilege to have the opportunity.” For 140 years Paycare has offered health cover to individuals, families and businesses throughout Wolverhampton and the Black Country to enable them to protect themselves against medical bills. For further information about Paycare’s full range of health cover please call 01902 371000, email enquiries@paycare.org, or visit www.paycare.org.

And the last word goes to one of the decorating team, Emily. “Paycare is a great place to work wolverhampton west magazine

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IMPORTANT This magazine is perfect bound - this Claim back up to 100% of the cost you spend on: means an additional 6mm (on either side, depending on placement of advert) will be glued into the magazine binding. Please make sure ALL TEXT AND LOGOS are set within AREA (at least 12mm& more Optical the WHITE Dental Professional Specialist Therapy Consultation & from the white dashed line - left and Tests right). Paycare Direct

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Di vo rc e r ates

on the rise

increasingly willing to take them into consideration following a ruling by the Supreme Court in the case of Radmacher v Granatino. In this case, the pre-nup had been drawn up in Germany to protect the immense wealth of a paper company heiress. Agreements there are binding but, as the couple divorced in England, her former husband attempted to claim a larger slice of her fortune, claiming the pre-nup had no legal standing. But the Supreme Court disagreed; saying there would have to be compelling reasons to depart from the agreement which they had made.

The latest news from the Office of National Statistics brings grim news for married couples – divorce rates between opposite sex couples are the highest they have been since 2009. Just under 107,000 of them went their separate ways in 2016 – the biggest year-on-year rise since 1985. Harbinder Gosal, a senior associate in our family team, examines the news and whether a pre-nuptial agreement could smooth the path to a more amicable separation. A spike in the number of people choosing to end their marriages always raises the question why? The most common reason in this latest set of stats was “unreasonable

behaviour” with 51 per cent of women and 36 per cent of men citing it in their divorce petitions. Unreasonable behaviour covers a multitude of reasons and it’s hard to establish an exact reason for the rising divorce rate without asking all 106,959 appellants. But there’s a suggestion from the relationship charity Relate that it could be down to rising levels of household debt putting pressure on couples. Money worries are, unsurprisingly, one of the main pressures on a relationship. Add in the usual issues in family life and financial concerns can be the tipping point for a marriage. Although it’s not the most romantic declaration of love, making a pre-nuptial agreement can be a sensible way to avoid conflict further down the line or even avoid divorce all together.

A pre-nup is not just for the wealthy though. With people marrying later, and maybe already owning their own home when they tie the knot, an increasing number of second or subsequent marriages, individuals may bring their own assets to a marriage that they want protecting in the advent of a divorce. Although it may be tempting to try and cut costs and do it yourself, it’s important to note that prenups are unlikely to carry weight in divorce proceedings unless they are correctly administered. Both parties should take legal advice and voluntarily choose to enter into the agreement as well as fully disclosing their financial positions to be transparent from the outset. The agreement should also be updated regularly should your situation change, such as having children. Harbinder is a Senior Associate in the Family Team and deals with all aspects of family and children law including divorce and pre-nupital agreements. She can be contacted on 01902 392420 or h.gosal@fbcmb.co.uk

When a couple decides on a prenup, they have to disclose their financial positions to each other fully and have a discussion about what might happen if they separate. Being honest and open about finances from the outset can make it easier to discuss the thorny issue of money. Harbinder Gosal

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Although pre-nups are not legally binding, courts are now wolverhampton west magazine

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New Year is a time to get organised • Talk to your providers – are you taking advantage of the best product available and does it suit your needs? • Understand the products that you have – this goes for savings and mortgages.

We all start out our year with a list of New Year’s resolutions – and how many of us have already skipped going to the gym, indulged in dessert a few times and have only learnt how to say hello in the language you were going to become fluent in this year?

base rate changes the Society has released a helpful guide of things you may want to think about: • Do you know what accounts and services you have from your finance providers? Make a list or take a look at your Credit Reference Agencies Report online – you may have forgotten about old accounts that are still active on your credit report.

• Start saving if you don’t already – the comfort that anyone has even if they can build the smallest buffer has a phenomenal impact on your wellbeing. Recent statistics published by the Building Society Association stated that over a third of mortgage borrowers have no cash savings, and another 10% have less than £500. For anyone that feels they would benefit from reviewing their savings, mortgage or would like to discuss pension, insurance or protection advice they are encouraged to call a member of the friendly team at Dudley Building Society on 01384 231414 or visit dudleybuildingsociety.co.uk

One resolution that pays back in abundance (both financially and psychologically) is getting your finances in check – the risk of pulling a muscle, putting on a pound of the non fiscal kind and worrying that you can’t speak the same language is minimal. As savings and mortgage markets jostle for position following bank

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Will my pension do its job?

What are my options? • Leave my pension(s) as they are? • Take a guaranteed income? • Take cash in chunks? • Take the whole pot in one go? • Take an adjustable income? • A mix of options to suit me?

If you would like us to help make sense of your current pension arrangements let us know by calling 01384 231414 or emailing us at enquiries@dudleybuildingsociety.co.uk and we can introduce you to Concept Financial Services. *Financial advice is provided by Concept Financial Solutions who are an appointed representative of Openwork Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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We are supporting

Safer Internet Day 2018

Create, Connect and Share Respect: A better internet starts with you. Concero UK will be taking part in Safer Internet Day 2018 which will be celebrated globally on Tuesday 6th February. Coordinated in the UK by the UK Safer Internet Centre, the celebration sees hundreds of organisations get involved to help promote the safe, responsible and positive use of digital technology for children and young people.

schools and families, and tools for getting involved at www.saferinternet.org.uk. Globally, Safer Internet Day is celebrated in over a hundred countries, coordinated by the joint Insafe/INHOPE network, with the support of the European Commission, and national Safer Internet Centres across Europe. The day offers the opportunity to highlight positive uses of technology and to explore the role we all play in helping to

create a better and safer online community. It calls upon young people, parents, carers, teachers, social workers, law enforcement, companies, policymakers, and wider, to join together in helping to create a better internet. Get involved to play your part! Book in for your esafety session for parents, teacher and students with Alan as part of your celebration of Safer internet Day! Contact Alan Foster: afoster@concerouk.com

The UK Safer Internet Centre – a partnership of three leading charities; Childnet, the South West Grid for Learning and the Internet Watch Foundation – provide resources for children, 134

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Wolverhampton

Grammar School 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 27th 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. Most of all, our Junior School is a happy place, full of fun and designed to bring out the best in your child. 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

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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 place for your child to unearth new talent and discover skills that they didn’t know they had,” says Dan Peters, Head of Junior School 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. To register your interest, please contact Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar by email: jam@wgssch.net or tel: (01902) 422939. Alternatively, visit the website www.wgs.org.uk for more details. wolverhampton west magazine

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

WOLVERHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL JUDGED “EXCELLENT” IN ALL AREAS BY THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS INSPECTORATE

Junior School Open Day Saturday 27th January, 10am - 1.30pm To arrange a guided tour or to learn more about registering your child for September 2018, please contact Mrs Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar tel 01902 422939 or email jam@wgs-sch.net

“This is a remarkable school. The atmosphere we encountered as we walked round with a succession

01902 421326 www.wgs.org.uk

of delightful guides was smilingly friendly. There is a real feeling of happiness.” The Good Schools Guide

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Wolverhampton Grammar School Compton Road Wolverhampton WV3 9RB

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St. Dominic’s

Grammar School, Brewood

to welcome Boys from September 2018!

We are looking forward to welcoming boys into our Senior School from September 2018. We believe the school’s heritage, ethos, teaching and reputation, gives them a platform from which to build an even more successful community based Independent School that offers high quality co-educational services for girls and boys from Nursery to 18 years of age. Head of School, Peter McNabb commented: “I am delighted to be able extend our Senior School offering to boys from September 2018 and I look forward to seeing them all embrace what we at St. Dominic’s Grammar School have to offer. The initial enquiries as to the feasibility of the consideration was very much lead by parents of boys who are currently in our Prep School; after much consideration by myself and our 138

School Management Committee, it was agreed that boys should be offered the opportunity of attending our Senior School and be allowed to become a part of our wider school community. We will be looking at welcoming them into Year 7 and Year 12 for September 2018.”

A key goal for St. Dominic’s is to be as inclusive as possible, whilst at the same time maintaining incredibly high standards. To make this a reality, we are creating a new fee system to produce an outstanding affordable education unrivalled within the independent sector.

The decision to extend the remit to boys in the Senior School was also based on market research, which acknowledged that schools like St. Dominic’s Grammar School generally thrive upon such decisions.

Other key dates are:

The school’s next Open Day is on Saturday 3rd March, 10.00am to 1.00pm - All families are welcome; if you can’t make these dates but would like to visit the school please email or call the school office who will make an appointment for you.

Year 7 Entrance Assessment day for September 2018 – Friday 26th January 2018 Sixth Form Options Fayre for entry in September 2018 - Wednesday 7th March 5.00pm-7.00pm. Only when you and your child walk through the doors of the school, can you truly appreciate what it is that makes St. Dominic’s Grammar School in Brewood so very special.

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

ST. DOMINICâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

GRAMMAR SCHOOL An Independent School educating children aged 2 to 18

Senior School welcoming Boys from September 2018

SPRING OPEN EvENTS Year 7 Entrance Assessment Day on Friday 26th January 2018 Whole School Open Day on Saturday 3rd March 2018 Sixth-Form Open Evening on Wednesday 7th March 2018 We would like to invite you to visit our school so you can see for yourselves what a wonderful setting this would be for your child.

For further information or to arrange a visit to the school please contact us on Telephone: (01902) 850248 or Email: secretary@stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Bargate Street, Brewood, South Staffordshire, ST19 9BA www.stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk139

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One of the top 25

Prep Schools

in England The Sunday Times Parent Power Top 100 Independent Preparatory Schools has listed Newbridge Preparatory School in the top 25 Prep Schools in England. The rankings are based on Key Stage Two SATs (Standard Attainment Tests) results, in which Newbridge Preparatory pupils have achieved results well above the national average across all three subject areas.

As an Independent prep school, we continue to voluntarily enter our girls for SATs which we do as a benchmark to help us see where we sit amongst the state sector; ensuring our high standards are maintained and externally measured. Newbridge Preparatory School, ranked 24th in the Sunday Times listing, achieved the following percentage of pupils meeting a level 5 standard in their SATs results: • Reading: 100% • Mathematics: 88% • Grammar, punctuation and spelling: 88% Additionally, at level 6, which is achieved by less than 1% of

pupils taking Key Stage Two SATs, Newbridge girls achieved:

• Mathematics: 40% • Grammar, punctuation and spelling: 31% • Level 6 SATs were additional tests intended to challenge Year Six children who were excelling in maths and/or English. Level 6 is a standard that the average child does not reach until Year Ten.

Forefront of academic achievement Newbridge is the only prep school in the West Midlands to reach the top 25; continuing the school’s reputation for being at the forefront of academic achievement across the West Midlands. This is an outstanding achievement for a small, non-selective prep school. Many of the other schools appearing in the top 25 are selective on entry. Newbridge is thrilled with the academic success which is the result of innovative teaching, a creative curriculum and a robust assessment programme. However, Newbridge Preparatory School is about so much more than just academic results with our focus on inspiring all to achieve their potential in all areas of school life through the support and dedication

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of the whole school community and our excellent pastoral care. Our Upper School girls take part in over two hours of sport each week, at least two hours of music and all have dance and drama lessons. In addition, we have many ‘extra-curricular’ clubs on offer each week including our own Brownie Pack – 1st Newbridge Brownies.

Outstanding School Earlier last year, Newbridge was inspected by the Independent Schools inspectorate and was awarded an ‘Excellent’ rating (Ofsted equivalent = outstanding) the highest grading in every inspection category. So Newbridge is truly an excellent and outstanding school in every way.

Creating a choice at 11+ Invest now and you will have far more options when your daughter is eleven. In and around Wolverhampton, we are fortunate to have diversity of choice across both state and independent sectors for senior schools. We work closely with parents to identify the next school in which each individual child will truly flourish – we will help and support you, every step of the way, to find the right senior school for your daughter.

Come and visit us Please do not just take our word for it. Read our ‘Excellent’ 2016 inspection report (www. isi.net/schools/6725) or better still come and visit us – as every day is an open day. Please ring 01902 751088 to make an appointment. Early registration for places is highly recommended for guaranteed places.

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Social Scene

Casino 36 Wolverhampton Deborah Mitchell held Heaven’s awards party at Casino 36 on Sunday 19th November and it turned out to be one of the very best decisions Deborah made all year! With the help of Fraser Tranter and the team at the fabulous casino in Wolverhampton it made for a fabulous event that was thoroughly enjoyed by celebrities, salons and fans of Heaven. Wonderful food and great music from Steve Bradley’s soul band ensured everyone had a great night. Some very happy people walked away with amazing awards. Deborah said “I cannot recommend this venue enough. Thank you Michelle and Adrian for creating such a luxurious place in the heart of Wolverhampton”. 1. Adrian Ballard, Michelle Ballard 2. Millie Bullen, Stu Dickin 142

3. Chris Cox, Ella Cox, Adam Evans, James Thomas-Horton 4. Joanne Mayes, Deborah Mitchell, Ray Jorden 5. Hayley Bint, Lisa Ward, Katie Clifford 6. Darren Gough, Anna Gough 7. Natasha Hill, Deborah Hill 8. Deborah Mitchell with husband Chris Cox 9. Jon Pugh, Bibi Pugh 10. Lynn Powell, Karen Perkins, Kelly Price 11. Fidel Delapaz, Alex Harvey, Charlotte Willies, Scott Bernard, Brett Bernard, Emma Bernard 12. Michelle Ballard, Craig Dobson, Ella Cox 13. Kevin McBride, Danielle Shalmani 14. Paul Talbot, James Mitchell 15. Natasha Price, Giuseppe Corbelli 16. Fraser Tranter, Adrian Ballard 17. Fiona Beech, Francesca Morgan, Sharon Dixon 18. Natasha Phipps, June Cole wolverhampton west magazine

Social Scene

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Social Scene

St Dominic’s Grammar School Brewood St Dominic’s Grammar School danced the night away back in November when The Friends of St Dominic’s held an ABBA Tribute Night to raise funds for Bowel Cancer. Parents, teachers & children all joined in the fun for a spectacular evening. They have lots to celebrate after announcing that the school will be going co-educational from September 2018 for new entrance year groups. 144

1. Rachel Duncan, Shirelle Bower (Chair of The Friends), Vanessa Prince (Vice Chair) 2. Madeline Groom, Bronya O’Neill & Sadie Phillips 3. The Friends of St Dominic’s - Pete McNabb (Head Master), Shirelle Bower (Chair), Vanessa Prince (Vice Chair), Coriarna Morris, Rachel Duncan, Jane Williams, Pam Paul amongst ABBA Tribute 4. Mrs Hastings-Smith, Mr McNabb & Miss Hovland 5. Shirelle Bower & Ollie Pointon 6. ABBA Tribute 7. Kate Thomas, Grace Thomas wolverhampton west magazine

Social Scene

St Nicholas School Codsall On Saturday the 2nd of December, Codsall High School was transformed into a “Glittering Winter Wonderland”. This was a charity ball to raise money for exercise equipment for the children. 120 guests were treated to a full night of entertainment and a sumptuous dinner all for a great cause. Event organiser Ian Tunnicliff commented “this is the first event of its kind for the school and it was amazing success”. Watch this space for next year’s event. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

10 1. Event Organisers, Ian Tunnicliff, Sara Tunnicliff 2. Sherminder Dhillon, David Cartwright, Nick Watts, Claire Watts, Julia Shenton, John Shenton 3. Helen Wynne, Nik Smith 4. Marcus Francis, Emma Francis, Zoe Parsons, Vincent Parsons 5. Lyn Jemalia, Royston Blythe, Ratree Gilmore, Deni Jemalia 6. Jessica Edwards, Helen Bagnall 7. Sophie Reeves, Rebecca Smith, Steven Smith, Duncan Reeves 8. Nick Malenco, Wes Fellows 9. Darren Knowles, David Kavanagh, Neil Bowdler, Leanne Bowdler, Louise Kavanagh 10. Julie Millard, Roy Millard, Joanne Bridgwood, Malcolm Bridgwood 145

Social Scene

Rudells Wolverhampton With the winter evenings drawing in and Christmas fast approaching, Rudellsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; annual catalogue launch events illuminated the West Midlands with the occasions in store. With red velvet cordons and a matching carpet, guests were greeted with a champagne reception and served with delicious canapes. The evening was dedicated to celebrating the prestigious brands featured within the 2018 catalogue, including some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most exciting designs from Mikimoto and FOPE, to classics such as Rolex, Patek Philippe and Cartier watches. Innovative designs that are exclusive to Rudells were also showcased, including the new Twin and Twist Collections. The celebrations were a perfect opportunity to find a special gift to be wrapped under the Christmas tree and to make it a Rudells Christmas to remember. 146

1. The Rudell team. 2. Mr and Mrs Paul Trevor and Gary Jones. 3. Jason and Lisa Milner, Kassie and Anthony Kiely. 4. Shop floor during the V.I.P. event. 5. Glenn Jenkinson-Deakin, Lynn Probert and Paul Probert. 6. Paula Timmins, Andy Timmins and Gary Jones. 7. Shona Turner, Simon Turner and Sarah Lewis. 8. Ann Hill, Francis Hill and Liz Baggott. 9. Jon Weston, Sylvia Parkin and Alan Parkin. 10. Pam Gainham, Clare Fudger and John Gainham. wolverhampton west magazine

Social Scene

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Photographs courtesy of Nik Andrews Photography

Social Scene

Molineux Wolverhampton Wolverhampton’s top legal talent has been recognised at a glittering awards ceremony celebrating the very best lawyers in the Black Country. Law firms from across the region gathered at the Molineux Stadium on Friday 24th November 2017 to battle it out for a number of hotly contested awards at the annual Wolverhampton Law Society dinner and hear from guest speaker, snooker star Dennis Taylor. Alison Westwood, President of the WLS, said: “This was a fantastic night of celebrations recognising not just the work the legal sector does in our city, but also the community engagement and support it shows. “Congratulations to all the winners and the shortlisted nominees, they are all hard working professionals in dynamic and pro-active firms.” 148

1. Anthony Burgess, Louise Barnes, Kelly Fullwood, Matthew Saunderson 2. Mad Hatter, Will Jones 3. Sharna Bryan, Dan Bate, Ria Hill 4. Lezelle Jacobs, Beverley Rizzotto, Sukhninder Panesar, Peter Walton 5. Elaine Hadley-Howell (Deputy Mayoress), Dennis Taylor, Councillor Phil Page (Deputy Mayor) 6. Stuart Hodson, Kathryn Williets, Stephen Carter 7. Sukhninder Panesar, Ria Hill 8. Jonathan Taylor, Christina Green, Sian Cole 9. Jas Kler, Dixie Whitten, Rajvir Mangat 10. Natalie Beardsmore, George Fairburn 11. Matt Reeves, Mitchell Nash, Adam Wadley 12. Jo Addinell, Shanice Pearson 13. Michelle Monnes-Thomas, Annita Howard 14. Rowan Jones, Chloe Turner 15. Yvonne Boddey, Pat Joyce 16. Judge, Helen Hughes, District Judge, Graham Wilkinson 17. Olivia Jones, Sara Thomas 18. Andrew Charman, Alan Meirklejohn wolverhampton west magazine

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Social Scene

Shrewsbury Arms Albrighton David Corfield Gymnasium held a Halloween event for staff and friends at The Shrewsbury Arms. There were some impressive costumes on display which helped to create a ‘spooky’ but magical party atmosphere. 150

9 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Maria Pownall, Rachael Jones, Kathy Hartley Lydia Stewart, Ami Corfield Dan Smith, Dean Rogers Ollie Ledger, Tom Ledger Ryan Johnston, Alex Cave, Sharon Campbell, Alison Preece Nikki Mascaro, Hayley Box Dave Corfield, Ami Corfield Neal Moore, Janine Moore wolverhampton west magazine

Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

Wolverhampton Racecourse Another Fantastic night was had by all at Promise Dreams Annual gala Dinner (Poppett’s Boogie Ball), over 400 guests boogied the night away at Wolverhampton Racecourse on Friday 1st December. Entertainment was provided by Leee John and Imagination, amongst other artistes and the evening was hosted by Motor GP’s Suzi Perry, patron of Promise Dreams, together with fellow patrons Steve Bull and Don Goodman. Just under £22,000 was raised for the charity who make dreams come true for terminally and seriously ill children across the UK. For more information please visit www.promisedreams.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

1. Steve Bull, Mark Greenfield 2. Suresh Bawa, Rajesh Brigue, Sabine Medniece 3. Andy Waite, Sonia Satterthwaite, Darren Owen, Helen Owen, Sue Walker, Steve Walker 4. Molly Timmins, Leah Hughes, Gemma Dempsey, Amy Sheffield, Daisy Roberts, Jess Needham 5. Neil Higgitt, Sue Higgitt 6. Graeme Clifford, Sarah Clifford 7. Jason Poole, Lorraine Poole 8. Kirsty Bull, Terena Bayliss, Roz Addison 9. Melanie Jones, Emma Mcquaide, Karen Hughes 10. Kerry Brummell, Neil Taylor, Aimee Parker, Sabine Medniece, Jason Guy 151

Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

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Ramada Park Hall Hotel Wolverhampton

1. Manu Chada, Kevin Allan, Rita Allan, Michelle Lucas, Justine Allan

Staff from â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Gluttons For Nourishmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in Tettenhall celebrated their first year anniversary under new ownership with a masquerade ball held on Saturday 16th December. Everyone enjoyed an evening of style, glamour and dancing into the early hours.

4. Helen Barratt, James March, Laura Millard

2. Milly Day, Laura Perry 3. Amanda Woodward, Alison Darby

5. Stephanie Bruxton, Lauren Morris, Helen Pemberton 6. Ellie Baker, Michelle James, Justine Allan 7. Olivia Mann, Carol Roberts wolverhampton west magazine

Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

Chris Jewkes Fitness Tettenhall Chris Jewkes hosted their first ever Halloween event which turned out to be a great success. Every single member who attended made a fantastic effort with their costumes. Lots of time and effort went in to creating a wonderful atmosphere, setting the mood for a great night of partying. Plans are already in place to organise next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

1. Mark Foster, Veronika Foster 2. Claire Fiddler, David Moyles, Tracy Baker, Jez Moxey, Jackie Green, Sarah Fiddler, Chris Jewkes 3. Sadie Simpson, Dana Balram 4. Ellis Bailey, Arran Bawa 5. Mark Rees, Cora Rees 6. Chris Jewkes, Terri Jewkes 7. Pav Mahey, Sam Bohannan, Natasha Phipps 8. Andy Hayward, Sarah Hayward 153

Shervill Golf Performance at South Staffordshire Golf Club

Improve your game this winter in time for a great 2018 season on the course with husband and wife coaching team Mark and Lisa Shervill at Shervill Golf Performance. Now in full-time alliance with South Staffordshire Golf Club following a recent move from the Shropshire Golf Centre, the performance duo are swinging for big success at the prestigious club in Danescourt Road, Tettenhall. Offering a variety of services including one-to-one coaching and group lessons for golfers of every size and standard, Mark explains: “Coaching is my passion and we see everyone from pure beginners, senior players to touring pros. Junior and Youth development is a big thing for us in particular. This winter we will be looking for new recruits for our action-packed, fun and educational junior coaching program, which runs every Saturday and Sunday from 1-3pm (for children aged 6 to 16). “We’ve always loved it here at South Staffordshire Golf Club, and we are excited to create special coaching to help everyone in the local community and beyond to enjoy the game of golf and see their game grow at our first class golf course. We can’t wait to get this new chapter of the business underway.” With over 20 years’ coaching experience under his belt, Mark is passionate about extolling the virtues of what he calls his ‘holistic’ approach to the game. And here’s the thing, there’s lots more to it than just how you swing: “I love getting the best out of people, so it’s really rewarding to put into practice my own brand of coaching because I often feel that many amateurs 154

pay too little attention to the aspects outside of the mechanical action involved in moving a club. “People focus too much on their swing when their game goes off (they start searching through YouTube trying to find the secret) but they forget - the key is in you! We are all uniquely individual and that’s why what we do works because we look at how physical elements allow you to move, then help you to improve these before we actually go out on the beautiful course at South Staffs and play golf. Looking at your mental and tactical game should ultimately lead to hitting better shots and shooting lower scores and enjoying your game more often.” This goes a long way to explain Shervill Golf Performance’s new working relationship with Chris Jewkes Fitness. Not only is the fitness centre virtually next door to South Staffordshire Golf Club, it also shares Mark’s ethos of body/mind simpatico.

because when you see as many pupils as Mark does in a week (“We see just over 100 people on average”), stopping because of adverse weather during important winter development months is just not an option. “Lisa runs a ladies’ coaching class for non members on every second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 11-12:30pm which is a very fun and relaxed way to get into golf or improve your game.” Lisa Shervill is a member of the Ladies European tour and has over 20 years’ experience of playing the game at the highest level, from winning national amateur championships to playing in major professional tournaments around the world. Lisa is a mentor to golfers of all abilities and has taken many young girls from starting the game from scratch to progressing to exciting young talent who now have a love of the game of golf.

“We will be running GolFit sessions in January so keep an eye out on our Facebook page @ Shervill golf performance or checkout www.chrisjewkesfitness. com” adds Mark.

First class coaching allied to first class facilities is an unbeatable combination, and something well worth trying this New Year: “Make your New Year’s resolution to get into golf and I’ll see you out there on the course.”

It is also a perfect environment when it’s freezing cold or raining,

A warm friendly welcome awaits whether you currently have a handicap or are a complete beginner SPECIAL WINTER WARMERS OFFER

1ST NOvEMbER TO 28Th FEbRuARy 18 holes of golf including a hot bap only £25pp - must be pre-booked or Book a tee time for £69.00 - Limited availability Mon-Friday only

Struggling For that perFect giFt idea? Gift vouchers available for Golf lessons, clothing and equipment from our fully stocked pro shop

2018 WINTER 7 dAy MEMbERShIP Available 1st February to 30th April for £200

COUNTRY MEMBERSHIP

FULL 7 DAY MEMBERSHIP

FLEXIBLE MEMBERSHIP

20 miles + away Unlimited golf at South Staffs for £410 per annum

For ladies who join during this 125th Anniversary year usual price £1270. 30% discount in year 1 and 15% discount in year 2 – no joining fee

Local and only play occasionally? A voucher based membership – 10 x 18 holes and 10 x 9 holes £425

All the above membership categories are subject to affiliation fees

Function room available for corporate/private parties For more details please contact our Club Manager, Sue LeBeau on: 01902 751065 or email: suelebeau@southstaffsgc.co.uk The South Staffordshire Golf Club, Danescourt Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9BQ Tel: www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk 01902 751065 @SouthStaffsgc

/SouthStaffsGolfClub www.southstaffordshiregolfclub.co.uk 155

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wolverhampton west magazine

Winter Tyres

• Improved performance and safety – more control in winter conditions due to innovative winter tyre technology • 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. • Increased tyre life

The friendly team at HiQ

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 snowcovered roads.

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.

Advantages of using Winter Tyres: • Shorter stopping distances – with braking distance significantly reduced in snow, ice and wet conditions

We offer a wide range of winter tyres and will be able to advise 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 Emma at HiQ Wolverhampton on 01902 420234.

HiQ Wolverhampton.

Keeping you safe on the roads this winter.

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

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Mercedes-Benz E-Class

All Terrain

Seek the spirit of adventure with the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class All Terrain. It’s pioneeringly innovative, blending the impeccable on-road manners of the regular E-Class Estate with genuine off-road capabilities, meaning you are ready for any journey. Featuring 4MATIC all-wheel drive, Air Body Control air suspension, and a dedicated All-Terrain driving mode, it can take you places other Estates wouldn’t dream of going. A spur-of-the-moment detour off-road, along a farm track, across snow or sand – the new All-Terrain relishes getting off the asphalt. The newest member of the E-Class line-up combines the many benefits of the E-Class Estate — exceptional comfort, intelligent technology, and a huge boot capacity — with serious off-road capabilities. If you’re looking to venture off the beaten track, this car is happy to

oblige. The All-Terrain driving mode means driving parameters such as steering and transmission are optimised for off-road conditions and suspension is raised to give you greater ground clearance. The All-Terrain also offers muscular 4x4 styling, from the distinctive SUV-style radiator grille to simulated chrome front, rear under-guard and alloy wheels. Meanwhile, the richly appointed cabin is equipped with a wealth of technology including the latest COMAND Online system with 12.3-inch media display. View and test drive this vehicle at Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton. The site has been a prominent part of the city for over four decades. During this time they have maintained their reputation for friendly professionalism and first-class customer service. Experienced Mercedes-Benz experts are available to meet all visitors’ motoring needs. This includes vehicle sales, servicing, maintenance and repairs, financial assistance plus dedicated support

for businesses and members of the Motability Scheme. Peter Smith, General Manager at Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, said: “The E-Class All Terrain is an impressive car of exceptional quality. The all-terrain driving mode means it’s a great car for everyone and I’m proud to represent it in our dealership. Mercedes-Benz has always been a reputable and prestigious brand and we are pleased to offer such quality vehicles to our valued customers.” The dealership offers a vast selection of models in their stylish showroom and a range of used approved Mercedes-Benz cars on the forecourt. With quality service and a suite of aftercare offerings, it is the perfect place to find your new car. To experience the power of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class All Terrain for yourself call 01902 276977, or visit Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton to arrange a test drive. Discuss any optional extras with their knowledgeable staff and drive away your perfect vehicle with a boot-full of adventure.

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

wolverhampton west magazine

Mercedes-Benz E-Class All Terrain. Seek the Spirit of Adventure

Call us on 01902 276977 to book a test drive. Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton Penn Road, Wolverhampton WV2 4HD

The model shown is an E-Class Estate All-Terrain. Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the new E-Class Estate range: urban 34.9(8.1), extra urban 48.7(5.8), combined 41.5(6.8). CO2 emissions 179 g/km. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors.

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Service You Can Trust PAINT AND BODY REPAIR SPECIALISTS

We offer a friendly personalised service at an affordable price!

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• Accident repairs • bumper and body scuffs • Paint scratches, chips and dents • Alloy Wheel repairs • full Valet/ Mop & Polish • Classic car restoration • full body resprays

Call into the workshop for a free no obligation quote or ring Chris on 01902 597847 / 07966 931704 alternatively email elitebodyrepair@outlook.com Unit 10 Walton Works Industrial estate, Macrome Road, Wolverhampton WV6 9HD

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel Image Luxury Travel 131 Alarms & CCTV T & T World 57 Appliances Electrical & Gas Geoff Hill 53 Bathrooms 23 Carvers Eaton Kitchens 19 49 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique MBH Builders 45 Beauty Salons Heaven Skin Care 101 Luminaire 106/107 Beauty Clinics – Cosmetic 111 Cosmetique Aesthetic Clinic Doll Aesthetics 105 Beds & Bedroom Furniture 8/9 Cousins Dreamland 30/31 27 Merridale Furnishers Bedroom Wardrobes (fitted) Dream Doors 47 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 49 Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Merridale Furnishers 27 Ralvern 42/43 Bookkeeping & Virtual FD Arnold Davies 65 Building Services & Contractors Mark O’Sullivan Building Services 60 MBH Builders 45 Three Pines 37 Building Societies Dudley Building Society 133 Business Services Wolverhampton Science Park 62/63 Butchers Allan Bennett 74 Poxons 75 Café’s Gluttons For Nourishment 77 Caravan Accessories Cannock Caravan Accessories 71 Car Body Repairs 160 Elite Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists Touch Dry 56 Zero Dry Time 61 Carpets & Flooring - Supply & Fit Cousins 8/9 32 Premier Carpets Car Sales & Service Charles Clark (Lexus) 162/163 Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton 159 Chiropody & Podiatry Tom Casey 124 Cleaning Services – Interior & Exterior Able Facilities Services 58 Composite Doors Doorsmart 51 Computer Services Finchfield IT 64 Delicatessen Corbelli 65 Dentistry Parkdale Implants 2 Smileworks Implants 126/127 Smileworks Teeth Straightening 94/95 Design & Print Synaxis 65

Diet & Slimming 116 Cambridge Diet Driveways MBH Builders 45 Resindrives.co.uk 25 Education 140 Newbridge School North Shropshire College 64 St. Dominic’s Grammar School 139 Wolverhampton Grammar School 137 Electricians & Electrical Contractors 33 Central Electrical Contracts MBH Builders 45 T & T World 55 Estate Agents BE-Essential 13 11 Berriman Eaton Fashion & Retail Aristocats 102/103 Fencing & Gates Profence 57 Financial Advisors Midland Independent Financial Services 20/21 Fireplaces & Stoves Flaming Fires 19 17 Wolverhampton Fireplaces Firewood Black Country Firewood 59 Fitness & Leisure Centres Chris Jewkes Fitness 109 South Staffordshire Leisure 121 123 WV Active Furniture & Furnishings Cousins 8/9 Merridale Furnishers 27 42/43 Ralvern Sofa Factory Outlet 29 Gaming & Entertainment Casino 36 91 Garage Services HiQ Tyres 157 Garden Design Boningale Garden Creations 67 Gardening & Landscaping Lealans Garden Centre 66 Golf Clubs South Staffordshire Golf Club 155 Health Care Cover Paycare 129 Hospices Compton Hospice 73 Hospitals – Private Nuffield 114 Hotels Copthorne Hotel 86 Park House Hotel 81 Hypnotherapy & Coaching Wiser Horizons 118 Italian Deli Corbelli’s 65 I.T. Media & Communications Concero 135 Jewellers Rudells The Jewellers 164 T.A.Henn 6/7 Kitchen Doors - Replacement Dream Doors 41

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Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit Bespoke Kitchens 35 Dream Doors 41 Eaton Kitchens 19 49 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique MBH Builders 45 Lawn Tennis & Squash Clubs Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis and Squash Club 119 Legal Services Manby Bowdler Solicitors 131 Letting Agents Berriman Eaton 11 Lighting Lighting R Us 33 Locksmiths Cummings Brothers 60 Music Lessons Rick Hampton 65 Opticians Taylor Biddle 110 Orthopaedic Surgery Wolverhampton Hip & Knee Clinic 125 Oven Cleaning Ovenclean 58 Painters & Decorators Kevin Jackson 60 Photography Crescent Imaging 131 Plumbing & Heating JB Plumbing & Heating 60 MBH Builders 45 Restaurants/Pubs 3 Hammers Bistro 80 Bilash 87 Casino 36 91 Copthorne Hotel 86 Cowshed 83 Halfpenny Green Vineyards 89 Oakley Arms 80 Park House Hotel 81 The Shrewsbury Arms 87 Wombourne Tandoori 81 Retirement Homes McCarthy & Stone 15 Skip Hire Wolverhampton Skip Hire 58 Taxis ABC Cars 69 Tiles & Interiors Heart of Stone 50 Tile Choice 5 Tyres HiQ Tyres 157 Vein Clinics Simon Hobbs 117 Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Vineyards 89 Wallpaper, Paints & Decorator Accessories S J Dixon & Son 17 Wedding Venues Copthorne Hotel 86 Davenport House 79 Park House Hotel 81 Windows, Conservatories, Orangeries Tettenhall Windows 35

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ORDER YOUR NEW 18 REG LEXUS NOW! FANTASTIC OFFERS AVAILABLE!

EXPERIENCE AMAZING AT LEXUS WOLVERHAMPTON Bilston Road, Wolverhampton WV2 2QE 01902 690 042 wolverhampton.lexus.co.uk Lexus range fuel economy figures: extra urban 36.2-70.6 mpg (7.8-4.0 L/100km), urban 17.5-68.9 mpg (16.1-4.1 L/100km), combined 26.2-68.9 mpg (10.8-4.1 L/100km). CO2 emissions 251-94 g/km. The MPG figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results. They are provided for comparability purposes, and may not reflect actual driving experience. The MPG figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results. They are provided for comparability purposes, and may not reflect actual driving experience.

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WOLVERHAMPTON

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Diamond Collection 97 Darlington Street, Wolverhampton WV1 4HB. Tel: (01902) 423308 / 427199 89 High Street, Harborne, Birmingham B17 9NR. Tel: (0121) 427 1904 www.rudells.com 164

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