Wolverhampton West Magazine - June 2019 by Jonathon

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

■ Fashion, Hair & Beauty ■ Eating Out &

Entertainment

■ Golf ■ Motoring ■ Plus lots more!

WIN! ■ A Wine Tasting

Experience for two at Halfpenny Green Wine Estate

■ Tickets to see

Educating Rita atWolverhampton Grand Theatre

JUNE 2019

DELIVERED TO AREAS OF: CODSALL, CODSALL WOOD, OAKEN, BISHOPS WOOD, TONG, COVEN, BREWOOD, COMPTON, TETTENHALL, CLAREGATE, FINCHFIELD, CASTLECROFT, PENN, MERRY HILL & BRADMORE

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CoNteNtS 22

44-45

70-73 12 The local property market by Nick Berriman 14 Carvers Wolverhampton Marathon Events 18 Wolverhampton Society of Artists 22 Ludstone Hall open day 22 Tettenhall village fete 24 Recipe of the month 26 Crosswords & Puzzles 34 The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton 39 Wolverhampton Mensa worker pledges to Race for Life 40 Grand Theatre Competition 44/45 Enjoy your outside living space this summer 48 Gardening with Ann Winwood 52 Wolves Book: Cometh the Light 62 Brewood cycle challenge 64 Willows Dental offering aid in Tanzania 66 Discover Dudley 68 Halfpenny Green Wine Estate competition 72/73 Goat Meat Recipes 76/77 Happy 60th birthday Nick 80/81 Blossoms food review 86 Another busy summer ahead for Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 88/89 The Courtyard food review 93 Fordhouses Cricket club: Howzat for an event to remember 96/97 Royston Blythe: The ultimate transformation 108/109 Women’s fashion: Keep cool, look hot 134-143 Social Scene 148/149 Growing the game of golf 150 Golf Tip 156/157 Driving scared 158 Mercedes-AMG speeds things up by expanding the compact car family 160 Answers to crosswords and puzzles 161 Index to advertisers 162 The legend continues; New Porsche 911 launch at Porsche Centre Wolverhampton 04

76-77

86 88-89

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CoNGrAtULAtIoNS to: Winners of the Grand Theatre competition to see Club Tropicana Katherine Burnett, Tettenhall Tracy Morgan, Merry Hill Winners of the Premier Enclosure tickets at Wolverhampton Racecourse Lianne Fletcher, Wombourne Raymond Marson, Finchfield

134-143

Winners of a family pass for West Midland Safari & Leisure Park N Harrold, Claverley Gayle Roberts, Tettenhall

148-149

96-97 156-157

100-101 Wolverhampton West Magazine Lytham Rd, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY Tel: 01902 744217 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Wolverhampton West Magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, The Publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert or editorial. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Wolverhampton West Magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise without the prior consent of Wolverhampton West Magazine Ltd.

*Total distribution 25,000 copies across 2 months

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

From the EDITOR

Welcome to our birthday edition. Hitting our nine-year anniversary seemed like light years away when we started this magazine but today our early days seem like only yesterday. Throughout the years the team and I have worked tirelessly to produce a product that is entertaining and informative but above all else useful. So, here’s more of the same – with added fuss about football. Regular readers will know about my aversion to the team of Premiership rookies who play in Gold and Black (my father’s fault: he took me to The Hawthorns as a boy and some allegiances you just can’t turn away from) but, as an editor who is finely attuned to his readership, it falls to me to congratulate Nuno’s men. I don’t think Wolves fans couldn’t have asked for more from their team this season – they even have a newly-released book to enjoy after the season ends. What lucky beggars! Now with that monkey off my back it’s on with the fun stuff. So, forgive me, but I’m going to give Brexit a miss and gloss over much of what is littering the front pages of the mainstream press and instead concentrate on life in our local pond. We’ve seen glorious weather over Easter (and happily there’s much still to come) so many of you will have been milling around outside wondering where to start. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered for the coming months – you’ll never be directionless again. Perhaps you might like time at home in the garden? If so, you’ll read with interest our Outdoor Living feature, lots of home rejuvenation advice and tips on how to grow yourself into a regular Titchmarsh. Perhaps: a drive to the seaside/ out into the country? Find out how to do it in style with our articles on the new Porsche 911 and Mercedes A-Class AMG. Our spotlight on Three Pines Buildings’ boss Alan Bradshaw takes you into the lap of car luxury. 06

Perhaps: a leisurely round of golf? Our Golf section showcases some of the many great courses on our doorstep, all of which offer excellent value-for-money memberships. You really don’t need to be President Trump to play, the game has never been more affordable. Perhaps: a spot of exercise? Not for me but – keep reading and you’ll find my favourite way to spend the summer (hint: it involves sitting under a parasol with Stella Artois emblazoned on it) – Brewood Cycle Challenge is upcoming, as is the Carver Wolverhampton Marathon. And you can always keep fit at Chris Jewkes Fitness and at South Staffs Council’s leisure centres: extra points for sweating in support of Race for Life. Perhaps, for the more civilised among you, some fine food? You’ll get it all and more than you bargained for at Poxons Butchers: who now proudly offer goat meat, and all the associated health benefits too. We are even giving you recipes to try once you’ve bought into the latest food craze. Allan Bennett is a butcher who needs no introduction, so I won’t banger on any further. But I will push you in the direction of some topnotch places in which to eat-out: The Courtyard in Wombourne and Blossoms on North Street, Wolverhampton. Perhaps: some good old-fashioned local attractions to visit under the summer sun? Our Social Scene pages (look out for Soul Sister Beverley Knight!) show you how the rest of Wolverhampton does it, so now it’s your turn to check out: Halfpenny Green Vineyards and The Grand Theatre (you can win tickets to both with competitions from us in this edition), Penkridge Market, Dudley’s many hotspots, Tettenhall Village Fete and Ludstone Hall’s open day. Of course, many of you will want to be at your best when you’re out enjoying yourself so… Perhaps: some advice on how to take better care of yourself? As a nation we

are living longer, so we want to help you live better, too. Our experts have you covered on everything from Health, Hair, Beauty and Fashion. In fact, there’s page after page of pageturning goodness for men and women from Royston Blythe (who will soon be celebrating a birthday of one of their own when Nick Malenko turns 60), Heaven’s Deborah Mitchell, Dr. Booshan’s Booshtox and much more. And finally: perhaps a good read in a local beer garden (if so, I’d recommend the new book on Princess Irene Brigade at Wrottesley Park)? You’ll find plenty of fathers in this environment come Father’s Day in June. So be sure to thank them for their service to you and to their local establishment. It just wouldn’t be a British summer without them. Remember readers: do keep in touch about local events, news and charities. Email us at info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk See you in August...

Geoff wolverhampton west magazine

As seen on...

DIY SOS

Exhibite d at Grand Designs Live Show

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George Clarke visits

Tile Choice

George Clarke is a celebrity architect, TV presenter of several shows, including Ugly House to Lovely Home, Old House New Home and Amazing Spaces, which explores the extraordinary world of inspirational small builds, as well as being founder of TV production company Amazing Productions. George is the founder and chairman of the educational charity The Ministry of Building, Innovation + Education (MOBIE) which aims to inspire young people through innovation and creative thinking into the architecture, design and building industry by creating homes for 21st century living.

Since 2018, George Clarke has been the voice of the Tile Choice TV and radio campaigns across a number of stations. We chose to use George Clarke for the passion which he shows towards architecture, art and design and because of his desire to make this accessible to all. In March 2019, George visited two of our Tile Choice stores, firstly our relocated Cannock store which boasts our latest shop layout which has been created to provide the

customer with a more pleasurable shopping experience and to make it easier to visualise the look they want to create in the home. George was keen to hear the opinions of our staff on current trends and the most popular tile ranges amongst our customers, greys, patterns and polished ranges were highly ranked. He expressed his feelings on using larger porcelain tiles to create an impressive look in the home. He then visited our Tile Choice Bilston store where we were holding a Trade Day. This meant George was able to speak with some of our suppliers, about the technology used in the innovative new products

available in the industry. Many of our traders were keen to talk to him about design projects to draw on his expertise to gain ideas on how they can also create amazing spaces. Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wealth of experience in designing new homes, transforming existing houses or converting historic buildings is clear to see, but what shines through is his passion for design and architecture. He spoke about a recent trip he made to Japan where he was stunned by their incredible architecture. The Midlands Air Ambulance charity attended our trade day as our chosen charity, as a charitable man himself, George was interested to hear about the fantastic lifesaving missions, which they undertake on a daily basis. We believe that by having George Clarke as the voice of our advertising campaign, our customers will be inspired to experiment with creative design, to express their own personality throughout a project, whether it is transforming a kitchen, or a large scale new build. George realises that the home is one of the most powerful forms of architecture which affects us all, and we all have the possibility of experimenting with our own environment, to improve the way we live, and hopefully learn something along the way too.

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The local

property market by Nick Berriman

remarkable. January was a good month, February was not quite so good but March was splendid. There has been strong demand across the board with multiple offers for some properties and several selling at above the asking prices. Not everything has been selling but it does seem as though price is still important and too high a price can inhibit sales.

The property market is a very strange animal. From time to time it defies logic and flies in the face of analysts and commentators. With all the uncertainty surrounding Brexit – whatever did we all talk about before that delightful word was invented – and all the prophets of doom one could have expected the market to have gone into decline. Granted that during the first quarter of the year Brexit was an unknown quantity and its ultimate effect on everything was speculation but on the premise that the market depends on confidence, a decline seemed inevitable. How then to explain that, in our experience, quite the opposite has been the case. During the first three months of the year our results have been quite 12

During the first three months of the year we have received 136 new instructions, of which Tettenhall received 44 during March, and have agreed 129 sales with a total price of over £40 million. The vibrant Lettings Department has received 81 new instructions during the same period and have agreed lettings on 54. The average rent achieved was £745 pcm. There are currently 330 properties in management. These are quite remarkable figures but have not been achieved overnight. They are the result of hard work over a long period with the sole aim of achieving the best results for our clients. Blowing one’s own trumpet is only rarely acceptable but, in this instance, I want the efforts and success of our staff to be made known. I think they all get an A* in their quarterly report!

did not all come back because prices were rising anyway. These were the times when many people thought of their homes as cash cows and only bought them to make a profit. A sensible and effective scheme of improvement to the right property will always show an increase in value but not to the extremes of previous years. We have a much better balanced and stable market which is a good thing and people are now buying properties because they are good for their families to enjoy rather than to make a quick buck. Two elderly golfers were playing at Trentham and discussing how they coped with getting old. One said to the other that he did not make long term plans or commitments because you never knew. I fully understand said the other who was a retired surgeon. I feel just the same and I never buy green bananas! (I know that is a true story as the other golfer was my father!). Trying to predict the long-term health of the property market is another green banana moment! All we do know is at the time of writing, in our experience, it is in a good state and is proving surprisingly resilient. Long may it continue!

I was talking to someone today who was considering purchasing a property in need of restoration and modernising but was anxious to ensure that after doing the work he would, in his terms, have some gravy. By which he meant show a profit. Many years ago when the market was stable people spent money on their properties so they could have the maximum enjoyment from them but realising that they would not get their money back in the short term. Then we had the periods of high price appreciation when the fact that prices were rising all the time disguised the fact that money spent on improvements wolverhampton west magazine

MIllStONE HOUSE, NURtON, NR PAttINGHAM, WV6 7HH An outstanding and deceptively spacious country residence providing extensive accommodation over two floors, with superb grounds of approximately three quarters of an acre, in one of the most sought after areas within the Wolverhampton conurbation and its surrounds with glorious views of open, rolling countryside. Hall, guest cloakroom, hallway, drawing room, dining room, dining kitchen, laundry / boot room. Inner hall, three bedroom suites. To the first floor there is a sitting room and two bedroom suites. Annex with hall, shower room, bedroom, kitchen / living room and dining room / occasional bedroom 2. Driveway, courtyard and garden. (EPC: D). TETTENHALL OFFICE.

OFFERS AROUND ÂŁ775,000 VIEWING: Please contact the Tettenhall Office.

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CarverS Wolverhampton

Half Marathon Events

The Carvers Wolverhampton Half Marathon Events are set to take place on SUNDAY 1st SEPTEMBER this year. The organisers are pleased to announce an additional sponsor and a change of events for our existing sponsors. Within the event programme there is the Carvers Half Marathon and The Banksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 10K. The Cycle and Wheelchair Event which has both a 20k and 10k distance is sponsored by estate agents Berriman Eaton and The Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mini Marathon is now sponsored by The Grand Theatre.

and running up to race weekend will be doing final checks before the competitors take to the streets. If anyone would like to help with any of the jobs, marshalling or water stations please make it known through the enquiry website www.carverwolverhamptonhalfmarathonevents.co.uk. The charities we are supporting this year are Compton Care, PDSA Wolverhampton, Wolves East District Scouts Bilston and Wulfrun Hospital Radio. You can enter any of the events online or download the entry form and enter at Carvers in Littles Lane.

This year the organising committee decided to include a Half Marathon Relay into the programme. It is hoped to encourage more people out to participate, who may not be able to complete the half marathon distance. Teams of four people can enter, each running approx. 3K. Paycare have kindly sponsored the relay this year. The organisers are busy behind the scenes, working with The City of Wolverhampton Council and Traffic Management to ensure that the courses are ready for the 1st September. There are some new volunteers this year who will help with signage around the course

To find out more about the events and sponsors visit our website www.carverwolverhamptonhalfmarathonevents.co.uk 14

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advertisement feature

Spring clean

your financeS

It’s that time of year when a large percentage of the population decide to clear out or change any out of date or unwanted furniture, clothes and general bric-a-brac. What most people fail to do is review their financial situation and take steps to improve their finances. I have in the past few weeks met with new clients who for some time have meandered along and lost thousands of pounds in the process. A few examples of how money has been lost are detailed below. Do you have an “old style” pension? • I was approached by a new client who is a business owner and has had a pension with Reassure for over 20 years. He is contributing £600 per month to this pension which has a 5% bid/ offer spread meaning that basically every month he 16

makes his payment, he is charged £30 for the privilege. To further compound matters he also had a significant percentage of his pension invested in a “cash fund” that pays Bank of England base rate minus 1% which effectively means that every month the value of this fund falls by 0.25%. In addition to this he also has the pension’s annual management charge of 1%. Are you a higher rate tax payer retiring soon? • I had another client approach me who had just turned 60 and had been made redundant. His total income for the year including the taxable element of his redundancy (first £30,000 is tax free) was £95,000. His employers were not prepared to make ad-hoc payments to his pension so this would have resulted in £50,000 of his income incurring tax at the higher rate.

I suggested to him that as we are near the end of the tax year and he intends retiring, he could make a lump sum payment into his pension and then withdraw in its entirety after 6th April. He had £46,000 surplus savings which is what he invested. This attracted tax relief of £11,500 so the gross contribution was £57,500. He will then receive a further £10,000 tax relief making his net contribution £36,000. When he withdraws this money in the following tax year, utilising his personal allowance and marriage allowance as his wife has no income, after tax he will receive (after paying our fee) £49,913, a saving of £13,913. Are you in a default lifestyle pension fund? • One of my real bug bears is the fact that a vast number of employees who have been enrolled into their employer’s workplace pension are invested in a “lifestyle fund”. wolverhampton west magazine

This means that when you are within 10 years of retirement, on an annual basis funds are switched from equities to fixed interest and ultimately cash on the presumption that when you retire you will purchase an annuity. If your intention is to purchase an annuity then you are fine however for the majority whom it is not, it means that funds may be switched when markets have fallen and you will never recover the loss.

assuming interest rates stayed as they are, a total saving of £38,360 over the 5 years.

The clients highlighted above are now financially astute and making the most of their hard earned money so please take time out and look at your finances, you never know it could save you thousands.

A good example of this is anyone who had a birthday in January and is within 10 years of retirement age would have had funds switched just as their equity content had fallen between 6% and 9%. Incidentally, equity markets have at the time of writing now recovered these losses but monies sat in cash will have had little or no return. When did you last review your mortgage? • Another new client I met has a mortgage that was initially with Northern Rock and from the date he took it out it has never been reviewed. The balance outstanding is £280,000 and the standard variable interest rate he is charged is 4.79%. We arranged a re-mortgage to a new lender and fixed his rate for 5 years at a payment rate of 2.05% giving him a saving of £639.33 or, www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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

John Webb

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

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

www.midlandifa.co.uk Throughout the year Midland Independent hold investment seminars with industry experts. If you would like to attend please email: info@midlandifa.co.uk 17

Celebrating 100 Years

with Shared Heritage Lottery Funding

WSA member Jess Pritchard shows her drawings of animals to pupils. Lisadeep Chumber, Esther Osazuwa (Jess Pritchard WSA member), Sonata Mieliauskaite, Gurleen Kaur (Annette Hughes WSA member), Shiryes Agyeman

The Wolverhampton Society of Artists is pleased to announce its grant of £10,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund which will be used to celebrate its centenary year. It has always been important to the Wolverhampton Society of Artists that it reaches out beyond the society and with the help of National Lottery players, the books for schools programme – ‘Spreading the Love of Art’ – began on Thursday 14th of March with a visit to Colton Hills Community School in Wolverhampton. Members of the WSA committee were able to talk to pupils about the Society and presented a selection of art books inscribed with quotations from the art world to give inspiration, encourage them

President of WSA Keith Oram presents Art Books to pupils at Colton Hills Community School, Mihail Vacarciuc, Lisadeep Chumber, Esther Osazuwa

to make art, study art, but much more importantly, to enjoy art. Vanessa Harbar, Head of National Lottery Heritage Fund West Midlands, said “We are delighted to support

this project, which, thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, will mean that more people will be able to get involved with, protect, and learn about the exciting heritage right on their doorstep.”

About The National Lottery Heritage Fund Using money raised by the National Lottery, we inspire, lead and resource the UK’s heritage to create positive and lasting change for people and communities, now and in the future. www.heritagefund.org.uk. Follow @HeritageFundUK on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and use #NationalLotteryHeritageFund

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ness celebrating s in business use with roll stock er 90 rolls in stock Laminates d Flooring

Wolverhampton’s largest independent carpet & rug specialist

• Family run business celebrating over 36 years in business • Massive warehouse with roll stock comprising of over 90 rolls in stock • Karndean, Laminates and Wood Flooring

• Vinyls • Bigger than it looks • Personalised gifts • Clocks • Kadai Firebowls

We have now moved inside Sandford Carpets, Wolverhampton Curtains, Blinds, Stock Rolls of Curtains, Wadding, Bump, Interlining, Fusible, Blackout Lining, Cotton Sateen Lining, Tie Backs, Curtains Poles, Upholstery Fabrics and Pattern Books You will find us at: 128 Trysull Road, Bradmore, Wolverhampton WV3 7JF Tel: 01902 335599 www.sandfordcarpetsandcurtains.co.uk Open: Tuesday to Saturday 9am until 5pm

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There's no subsTiTuTe for qualiTy 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.

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

Phone: 01902 499 919 Email: info@three-pines.co.uk

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domestic contracts

atc coBridge new cadet centre

Three Pines were tasked with the project to construct a new Air Training Corp Cadet Unit to the rear of the existing Army Reserve Centre in Cobridge, Stoke On Trent. The project was initially for a standard size cadet unit the same as Three Pines had previously built at other sites in Telford, Warwick & Hereford. However, during the construction, the client extended the build to include a rifle range, additional classrooms & storage areas to make this in to what has been known as a ‘Super Centre’. This fantastic facility incorporates full Wi-Fi & IT facilities as well as state of the art touch screen TV’s to enable the young cadets to train and learn in a high-tech environment. The Air Rifle Range has 4 lanes & the latest facilities to allow the cadets to learn & sharpen up their target skills in preparation for the armed forces recruitment if they wish to pursue this route.

THE nEW FACILITIES ARE A gREAT AddITIon FoR ALL CAdETS WITHIn THE STokE on TREnT AREA To ACCESS.

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The Ludstone Open Day

Open to the public one day a year Sunday 9th June, 2019 The biggest event of the year at Ludstone Hall is the Annual Gardens Open Day, which this year is on Sunday 9th June. Held in support of All Saints Church, Claverley, this is the only time when the grounds are open to the public. The open day is always very well attended, with all proceeds going to All Saints Church, Claverley. As well as a variety of stalls for home, garden, crafts and antiques, this year we are pleased to announce an additional attraction, a land train ride around these beautiful gardens.

popular museum will be open with many artefacts and items of interest relating to Ludstone Hall on display.

Donations will be requested for entry to the museum. We look forward to seeing you.

Visitors will have access to all of the grounds. Refreshments and a licensed bar will be available. Our

The grounds will be open from 11am and admission is ÂŁ4.00 for adults and free for children.

For all enquiries regarding stalls for this event, please call 01746 710528.

Tettenhall Village Fete The annual Tettenhall Village Fete will be held on Sunday 14th July The charity and communitybased event, hosted by Tettenhall Round Table, is laying on a host of local entertainment and attractions including local bands, The West Midlands Concert Orchestra and returning by popular demand, a Punch and Judy show! Compton Hospice will be in attendance with their radio van as well as a variety of stalls from local charities, community groups and small businesses.

German Bratwurst. A range of donated home-made cakes and sweets will be served up in the Tea Tent along with hot and cold drinks. In addition, a range of tasty alcoholic beverages will be supplied by local breweries. The event will be attended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Wolverhampton and all profits will be distributed back to local charities and community organisations. If you have a local good cause that you think Tettenhall Round Table could help financially please get in touch with them. Tettenhall Round Table is made up of local young men between the

age of 18 and 45. They enjoy an active and varied social calendar and put on several fundraisers throughout the year including Santa Sleigh Pulls around Tettenhall Wood and Claregate. If you are interested in coming along to an event please get in touch with them. https://tettenhall.roundtable.co.uk https//www.facebook.com/ TettenhallRoundTable Contact: Robert Buka (Fete 2019 Chairman) Mobile: 07834374181 Email: rob@ellieandoscars.co.uk Shiv Passap (Vice Fete Chairman) Mobile: 07824646077 Email: skpassap@gmail.com

The family friendly event will have a range of childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entertainment throughout the day with bouncy castles, face painting, tombolas and a traditional Punch and Judy show. Tettenhall Round Table will have refreshments on hand with their customary barbecue serving up burgers, hotdogs and traditional 22

wolverhampton west magazine

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RE C I PE BLACK PUDDING SCOTCH EGG

These are a great picnic item, but also make a lovely hot starter served with Dijon mayonnaise and pickled vegetables or piccalilli.

Preparation time: 1 hour MAKES: 4 Ingredients • 500g good quality black pudding • 6 free range eggs • 1 packet panko breadcrumbs • 50ml milk

2. Crumble the black pudding by hand to form rough breadcrumb consistency, then divide into 4 burger shapes. Cut 4 pieces of cling film 20cm square, place the black pudding on the cling film and roll or use your hands to make it at least 10cm in diameter, it should be no thicker than 1cm.

Method 1. Boil 5 of the eggs in rapid boiling water for exactly 6 minutes (runny yolk), if you prefer your yolk fully cooked

5. Now for the breadcrumbing (or pané as we say in the trade). Put the flour in a dish, in another dish beat an egg

• Vegetable Oil

with the milk. In a third dish place the breadcrumbs, Japanese panko breadcrumbs give the best result. Roll the black pudding covered egg in the flour first then in the egg mixture, then breadcrumbs. 6. Heat fryer or oil filled pan to 160c and cook for 5 minutes then serve imediately. Recipe by

3. Peel the boiled eggs but be gentle as they are runny in the middle. 4. Place the egg in the centre of the black pudding and start to wrap your egg, using the cling film to help cover the whole egg, then remove cling film.

• 50g plain flour

then 8 minutes, cool in running water for the same amount of time as cooking (Chefs tip: Have 1 spare egg for mishaps).

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

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

Open: Monday to Friday 9.30am until 5pm Saturday 10am until 4pm 25

Crossword Across 1 Noise a frog makes (5) 4 Devoted, obedient (7) 8 Left on a plate (food) (7) 9 More timid (5) 10 Trust, have faith in (7) 12 Momentary slip (5) 14 Beset, overburdened (4-7) 18 Artist’s stand (5) 19 _______ Crowe, actor (7) 21 Android, cyborg (5) 23 Vacation (7) 24 Defamation, smear (7) 25 Amendment, clause (5)

Puzzle answers on page 160 Down 1 Plump, porky (6) 2 Inundates, floods (9) 3 _____ Hopkins, rightwing columnist (5) 4 Burrow, hideaway (3) 5 Brawls, skirmishes (7) 6 Take wing (3) 7 Pantry, food cupboard (6) 11 Mistake (5) 13 Imagined, made-up (9) 15 Watered down (7) 16 Detritus, rubble (6) 17 Actor, performer (6) 20 Pertaining to the sun (5) 22 Feathery scarf (3) 23 Female pronoun (3)

Sudoku How to play Sudoku It’s simple! Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition. You don’t need to be a genius. These puzzles use logic alone. Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.

Word Search Can you find all of the musical terms hidden in the grid? accelerando adagio allegretto allegro andante animato arpeggio coda con brio da capo dolce espressivo fine forte grandioso 26

grave largo legato lento libretto marcato moderato molto piano presto rubato semplice sempre tenuto vivace wolverhampton west magazine

w w w . t e t t e n h a l l w i n d o w s . c o . u k

Kitchen Extensions

Orangeries

Conservatories

Windows

Doors

TRANSFORM Y O U R H O M E

Visit our showrooms: 128 Aldersley Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9LZ

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Open: Mon - Thurs 10am – 3pm, Fri – Sat 10am – 1pm

Find us on www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Award-Winning

Kitchen & Bedroom Makeover Specialists

Kitchen before a Dream Doors makeover

Since 1999, Dream Doors has helped tens of thousands of people throughout the country design their ideal kitchen and make it a reality. While we offer complete kitchen installations, we made our name through kitchen makeovers using high quality doors, worktops and splashbacks. Add in appliances, sinks and cooker hoods from top name suppliers such as Neff, Samsung and Blanco among others, and you’ve got the recipe for a kitchen makeover that will save you up to 50% on a full refit – typically installed in as little as two to three days. Contact Dream Doors’ showroom today and let us take the hassle out of your kitchen makeover from the beginning. Our highly trained showroom manager and staff can arrange a free, no obligation visit to your home, at a time that’s convenient for you, and help you begin planning your makeover. You can select the units you want from our recently redesigned brochure and product selector, as well as picking the style, colour, finish, door handles and other options you want to really make your new kitchen your own. 28

Kitchen following a Dream Doors makeover

Once you’ve made your selections, you can leave the rest to us.

some extra hidden plug sockets in a kitchen island or worktop?

Our team of locally-based, professional fitters will come and install your new units with the minimum of disruption.

We even offer warming drawers and built-in coffee centres as well as washer dryers and fridge freezers.

And whether you prefer a traditional, modern, contemporary, classic or exclusive look, you will find we have a style that suits you perfectly. Our new doors and fittings come in a multitude of colours and finishes, including matte, gloss and wood grain. You can choose from a wide selection of handles for your new units or, with some door styles, you can choose to go handle-less and make the most of our soft close door and drawer systems. Don’t forget we can fit a full range of seamless overlay, solid wood and laminate worktops, as well as solid granite and quartz overlay versions. Dream Doors also offers a full range of finishing touches such as splashbacks, cornices, pelmets, rails and plinths. We offer a wide selection of double or single ovens, hobs, microwave combos, cooker hoods, sinks, taps and even LED lighting.

Dream Doors prides itself on the quality of its work and its focus on customer satisfaction. We are very proud to hold a 9.7 out of 10 approval rating on independent review website Checkatrade, based on over 80,000 installations completed and over 21,000 reviews. Dream Doors has been named the Best Kitchen Supplier in The Daily Express Home & Living Awards and continues to win awards to this day. Dream Doors strive to always offer high quality and value with a kitchen makeover that could cost you up to 50% less than a new fully fitted kitchen. When we say we are the number one kitchen makeover firm in the UK, we really mean it, so give us a call today and let’s get started on creating your dream kitchen. www.dreamdoors.co.uk

If you really want to add some convenience and luxury into your new kitchen, why not consider fitting some of our most cuttingedge features such as a boiling water tap, a chilled wine rack or wolverhampton west magazine

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Summer has arrived at Stourbridge Galleries

Summer is just around the corner and Stourbridge Galleries are welcoming many new product launches from their numerous suppliers.

also offer lovely pieces of stylish jewellery, any of which would make a perfect gift. Add to these the gorgeous fragrant candles from St Eval of Cornwall, elegant fused glass bowls, vases and coasters from Jo Downs and the imaginative selection of affordable giftware from East of India, and you have an irresistible reason for visiting the store. The Galleries feature the range of soft toys from Jellycat, whose cute and cuddly lambs, chicks and bunnies are always popular. In addition, the Galleries have a fine reputation for stocking cards, gift wrap and bags from many publishers including Woodmansterne, Caroline Gardner, Stop the Clock, Belly Button, Art Angels and many more.

Now available is the lovely Scent of Bluebells from artist Paul Evans and Rough Fell Tups by James Bartholomew. All work is framed on site, to complement the artwork, and the same service is available to frame your own artwork, including paintings, prints, photographs, needlework, sport shirts and memorabilia... This fine 19th century house is the home of a truly 21st century shopping experience. Great design, quality and value for money are paramount when selecting the stylish and unusual collections for the store, giving a choice of products not readily available on the high street Expect a warm welcome and something new and different to see each time you visit.

Many creative talents contribute to the exciting mix of design led gifts, jewellery, greetings cards, artwork and home accessories that you will find when visiting this fine 19th century house. One of these is Sam Wilson, whose new Hedgerow range featuring nesting birds and based on one of her artworks, encapsulates the mood of this time of year. Sam has created a luxury homeware brand, inspired by the British Countryside, featuring the rich flora and fauna of the Cotswoldsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; where her studio is based. Delicate flowers, nimble hares and happy blackbirds from her original linoprints are adapted and made into cushions, washbags, shopping bags, mugs, jugs, greetings cards, stationery and beautiful archival prints. The same fresh palette of colours are also strong in the collections of scarves from Hem & Edge and Peace of Mind who, together with Carrie Elspeth and Kit Heath 30

wolverhampton west magazine

Gift Shop Gallery Picture Framers

WINTER

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On selected Artwork, Giftware, essories Home Acc andcatching elleofryeye Two Jew floors art, giftware, jewellery and home accessories provides a visual treat that makes shopping Two floors of eye art, giftware, jewellery herecatching such a pleasure. and home accessories provides a visual treat To complete that perfect gift, select from a range of beautifully that makes shopping here such a pleasure. designed contemporary gift wrap and bags. To complete that perfect gift, select from a range of beautifully designed contemporary gift wrap and bags. Open: 9.30am - 5.30pm Monday to Saturday Open: 9.30am - 5.30pm Monday to Saturday

Stourbridge

Galleries

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Wolverhampton’s handmade reclaimed

furniture workshop

As industrial and rustic styles continue to be a popular interior design choice for 2019, a furniture workshop with a difference can keep your decor on trend whilst being kind to the environment. Wood Saints specialises in handmade furniture and garden products using reclaimed timber collected from local businesses and construction projects. Unwanted wood that would otherwise go to landfill is upcycled into dining tables, bookcases, coffee tables, storage boxes, benches, patio furniture, bird boxes, quirky homeware and unique wall art. A popular bespoke design service is also available with recent orders including made to measure shoe racks, bookcases, tables and alcove storage. Mick Moreton, Manager at Wood Saints says: “We’re all about creating beautiful, authentic and built to last pieces, working with customers to bring their ideas to life. You just can’t beat the look, feel and smell of real wood.”

Mick’s team is based at The Wood Depot on Dixon Street, where you can visit the showroom shop, buy timber for DIY projects and see the workshop and recycling operation in action. Anyone with an interest in working with wood can join the team of volunteers or sign-up for a 10-week basic wood-working course. Wood Saints is a community enterprise run by All Saints Action Network, a local charity working to make life better for people who live and work in the All Saints area of Wolverhampton.

Reclaimed timber furniture Handmade to order Rustic & industrial chic Dining tables • Coffee tables Bookcases • Sideboards Benches & more

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM | Open Monday - Saturday The Wood Depot, Dixon Street, Wolverhampton WV2 2BX 01902 556683 www.woodsaints.com We’re on Facebook 32

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WE’VE GOT NEWS FOR YOU

NEW LIGHTING & HOMEWARE RANGE FOR SS19 Spring is well and truly underway, that only means one thing: a whole new lighting collection is now available to you. The new collection consists of an array of colours that range from pale pink to emerald green.

Firstly, you need to hear about the beautiful homeware we have to offer. The Veila tables are a firm favourite with their beautiful, dark marble effect. There are also mirrors with some spectacularly unique

designs. The Syagrus mirror is one to make a statement with its strong, palm tree print. Not to mention, the Veona and Lyshia make a perfectly suited pair with their intersected panels of glass and rose gold.

Now, let’s talk about our favourites with the new lighting ranges. As mentioned previously, the Hexagon pendant is an exceptional fitting.

The combination of LEDs, satin black, and polished chrome facets gives this pendant a distinct appearance, of angular geometry suspended in mid-air. The Falcon pendants are another that bring the functionality of LEDs and contemporary style together. Coming in a range of colours, the design is a sculptural form, comprising several symmetrical pieces that surround the ambient LED light. Want to see how stunning this range is for yourself? Then head on over to our website at www.lightingrus.co.uk. Alternatively, if you’re after something different, you can browse through the rest of our website, or take a look around our Wolverhampton showroom.

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

£ Bring this advert into store to redeem. OR use code DISCOUNT15 on our website. Minimum spend £100. Exclude bulbs, shades and SALE items. Expires 30/06/2019.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton

Giving support where it is needed

The plaque to celebrate the Peenya project is unveiled.

Rotary International is the most widespread, most financially sound, networking service organisation in the world. For many years the Rotary Club of Wolverhampton has operated a registered charity in order to handle monies raised on behalf of others, keeping these funds very strictly separated from the club’s own funds. Each year the Charitable Trust typically generates in the order of £50,000 for the benefit of needy causes. The funds are raised by the club’s 50 members from a variety of activities, including Best Foot Forward, an annual Dragon Boat Challenge held at Himley Park, and the Tree of Remembrance each Christmas. Many of the charities and organisations which benefit are based within our own city, some are national, while others fulfil needs across the world. Local projects have included financial support of £900 to the Wildside Activities Centre in Whitmore Reans to help fund its “Little Explorers Group”. Over 700 young children have been encouraged to play in the outdoors in order to create an exposure to

the environment and develop an understanding of its workings. The guided play and outdoor exploration fulfil developmental needs of youngsters, promote motor skills and coordination, as well as providing stimulus for language development. A grant of almost £4,000 to the Kingswood Trust has assisted in the development of their “Hoot” project, which focuses upon owls, small mammals and their habitats, creating an appropriate environment for them to thrive. Trails in the grounds enable young children and the wider community to observe and study the animals, improving their understanding and appreciation of the environment. A contribution of £1,500 has enabled families with a child with Cystic Fibrosis to take a UK respite break holiday, organised by Dream Holidays. This help is based upon the child’s consultant’s recommendation, as part of the support families need to help them manage. In the international sphere, the club has partnered with the Rotary Club of Bangalore Peenya, in southern India, in providing sanitation facilities to six schools in rural areas. This $30,000 project has been achieved by means of a Global Grant from the

Rotary Foundation. It is estimated that 2,500 children will benefit. The club is an active supporter of the ‘Lend With Care’ scheme whereby small loans, usually no more than £50 are made to individuals in Third World countries to enable them to start a new business, thus creating employment. Seventy eight such loans have been made to date, creating over a hundred sustainable jobs. The loans are repaid from the proceeds of the new businesses that have been created and, so far, there has not been a single bad debt. At an orphanage in Malawi, the club provided the funds to create the so called ‘Wolves Chicken House’ making it possible for communities to breed chickens and generate income from the sale of eggs. To learn more visit www.rotaryclubwolverhampton.co.uk or pick up the phone or send an email. Paul Lockley: plockley43@btinternet.com 07592 576126 or Kewal Krishan: kewal@krishans. com 07770 966220

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

Net gain at the Wildside

wolverhampton west magazine

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Sandhills new flagship Nursery in Wolverhampton

is officially OPEN!

The doors to one of the finest, state of the art Nurseries opened on Monday 25th March to its children and parents. This stunning Nursery has so much to offer from the natural resources to the free flow areas and it was exciting to see how much joy and fun was to be had by the children.

The children have been busying themselves, exploring and playing with the real and natural resources and have enjoyed the freedom and fresh air of the outdoors overlooking the stunning views. The children have settled into their new â&#x20AC;&#x153;home from homeâ&#x20AC;? nursery as if they had never moved, so much so, that there have been tears on many occasions as parents have had to tear their children away at the end of the day.

Parents have welcomed and shared stories of their little oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk with staff about their new, amazing nursery and how excited they are about coming back!

wolverhampton west magazine

New Nursery

NOW OPEN in Wolverhampton

We have other sites at Wombourne: 01902 326500 and

Double outstanding Nursery now relocated

01902 844450

Heath Mill: 01902 896317

Sandhills Day Nurseries are Rated Outstanding with Ofsted

www.sandhillsdaynursery.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

sandhillswolverhampton@btconnect.com

Promotional feature

Enter now at raceforlife.org 38

wolverhampton west magazine

Wolverhampton Mensa worker pledges to Race for Life known mutations. However, knowing that new discoveries are being made all the time, Ann agreed to allow her tissue samples to be used in future research to benefit others. She said: “My experience means I understand all too clearly why Cancer Research UK’s work is so important. It’s thanks to research that I’m standing here today and can enjoy more special moments with my family and friends. Making my tissue available for research means others – possibly including my own daughters – can benefit from my experience.” Ann said: “I’m so excited to take part in Race for Life and join such a formidable force of supporters who are so motivated to make a difference. The event falls on the exact day they told me they’d successfully removed all of my cancer, so it is a significant milestone for me.

A Wolverhampton Mensa worker, and former journalist, who was diagnosed with cancer after visiting the GP with a crick in her neck, is pledging to take part in Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life. Ann Clarkson, will take part in Race for Life two years to the day since a successful operation to remove a tumour from her womb. As she celebrates her own survival she hopes others will follow her lead and sign up for one of the many events across the Midlands. This year, for the first time, Cancer Research UK is inviting everyone – women, men and children – to join the Race for Life. Last year Ann’s two daughters, Ellie and Jennie took part in the Telford Race for Life in celebration of their mum. This year Ann’s partner David Ballinger will join her on the start line. Because there was a family history of cancer Ann had genetic testing, but it did not reveal any Our Sponsors

Cancer Research UK registered charity nos. 1089464, SC041666 1103. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

“I’m so grateful for the treatment that saved my life. That’s why I want to encourage as many people as possible to join the fight and sign up to the Race for Life” Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco, is an inspiring series of 5k, 10k, Pretty Muddy and Pretty Muddy Kids events which raise millions of pounds every year to help beat cancer by funding crucial research. One in two people in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer, at some point during their lifetime, but the good news is more people are surviving the disease now than ever before. Cancer survival in the UK has doubled since the early 1970s and Cancer Research UK’s work has been at the heart of that progress.

Enter now at raceforelife.org or call 0300 123 0770. You local Race for Life: West Park 16 June Our Partner

Grand Theatre COMPETITION Starring Stephen Tompkinson and Jessica Johnson in Willy Russell’s EDUCATiNG RiTA is at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from Monday 8 – Saturday 13 July. We have a pair of tickets to give away to the press night on Monday 8 July at 7:30pm.

When married hairdresser Rita enrols on a university course to expand her horizons, little does she realise where the journey will take her.

Her tutor Frank is a frustrated poet, brilliant academic and dedicated drinker, who’s less than enthusiastic about taking Rita on, but the two soon realise how much they have to teach each other. This hilarious and heartwarming comedy won the Olivier award when it was produced in London’s West End by the RSC and was adapted into the multi-award-winning film which starred Julie Walters and Michael Caine. It is written by one of our greatest ever playwrights, Willy Russell, and starring one of our best loved actors Stephen Tompkinson as Frank and introducing Jessica Johnson as Rita.

To book tickets for EDUCATiNG RiTA from Monday 8 – Saturday 13 July visit the Box Office, 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 on a postcard with your name, address and telephone number to Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton WV6 7YY. Alternatively email your answer to info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk and include your details by Friday 14th June 2019.

Willy Russell wrote which other famous play and musical? A. Blood Brothers B. Sunset Boulevard C. 42nd Street D. Death Of A Salesman 40

Competition Terms and Conditions Entries to be received no later than Friday 14th June 2019. Winners to collect tickets from the box office on the evening of the performance. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash or alternative prize nights available. Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity. Tickets are for the specified performance only and cannot be given for any other performance or production. Tickets have no monetary value.

wolverhampton west magazine

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Potting Shed team

grows from strength to strength gardening and my team and I take great pride in treating all our clients’ gardens as our own. By choosing The Potting Shed for your garden maintenance you’re guaranteed a reliable, friendly and professional service. “Each package is bespoke for every client’s needs, and applies to all gardens, big and small. The process starts with a free consultation and a chat to see what you’d like to achieve within your garden and then we go from there.

After yet another successful season spent in the great outdoors owner Sarah Turnbull, of garden maintenance service The Potting Shed, gives us an update on her fledgling business.

help him in his new role. Adam Goodger has also joined the team as an assistant gardener.”

“The season has got off to a flying start. We’ve been inundated with enquires and so have had to expand our team. This will enable me to concentrate on providing even better customer service, to take on more planting projects and to be more available for more oneto-one consultations with existing, regular maintenance clients.

The full maintenance service that provides lawncare, weeding, pruning, planting (including hanging baskets and seasonal displays), mulching, jet washing, and all general advice and maintenance is already supported by a passionate team and Sarah is happy that the new additions will “strengthen the team for the future.”

“We welcome Dominic Brown as our newest team leader. He did a stint with us last year and gained lots of experience that will

“Here at The Potting Shed we’ve a real passion for

“This year we are also taking pre-orders for summer hanging baskets. So, look out for us on Facebook – www.facebook.com/ thepottingsheduk/ , on our website or contact us below. And be sure to check out our newly-launched YouTube channel, where we will be posting informational videos to share expertise and provide inspiration for your gardens. “With an ever-growing portfolio of fabulous gardens and satisfied customers, the last three years have been great and we hope the success will continue,” adds Sarah.

01902 755502

info@thepotting-shed.co.uk w w w. t h e p o t t i n g - s h e d . c o . u k 42

wolverhampton west magazine

LIVING

from Leekes

Step into spring at Leekes with our extensive collection of garden furniture now available in store and online. Whether you long for the perfect lounge set, a gorgeous grilling set or an intimate bistro set we have everything you need to make this spring special at Leekes.

FOR OVER

120 YEARS EST. 1897

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

ENJOY YOUR OUTSIDE LIVING SPACE

THIS SUMMER As soon as the good weather arrives it’s time to make the most of your outdoor space and enjoy spending the summer months outside. Here are our top three ways to make the most of your garden this summer:

Add an Orangery Orangeries are an increasingly popular choice for those looking to add extra living space - and value - to their property. They offer a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor living spaces and because there is so much potential in terms of design, whatever style your property is, it’s easy to find an orangery that’ll be perfect for your home and garden. Whether you choose a traditional or modern design, every orangery looks fabulous when finished with bi-folding doors.

Perfect Your Patio If anything is going to spoil the look of your outside space, it’s an untidy patio. So, this summer why not overhaul your patio area and transform it into a place where you can sit back, relax and enjoy those long summer nights? Once you’ve got your patio looking suitably neat and tidy, treat yourself to some patio furniture and move 44

all socialising outside. With so many options to choose from – both in terms of style and comfort – you’ll be spoilt for choice.

You can sample the delights of a hot tub from Jacuzzi™. Many people still believe that buying a hot tub is an expensive purchase, but with a variety of finance options available, enjoying a hot tub in the comfort of your own home has never been so affordable. And, to finish off the look, invest in some new outdoor lighting and an ultra-trendy firepit.

Make Maintenance Easy If gardening really isn’t your ‘thing’, then why not swap those high maintenance areas with a practically effort-free alternative? Mediterranean style gardens are a really popular choice because they look fabulous and don’t require hours of hard work. Gravelled sections, as well as cobbled and pebbled areas work well as an alternative to grass and, pots and containers complete with all-manner of colourful blooms will ensure there’s still plenty of colour. Clipped hedges and topiary look fabulous alongside raised beds and both will serve to add structure to your garden. And, for a truly fabulous focal point, simply add a water feature.

Jacuzzi J485 ™ www.jacuzzi.co.uk/jacuzzi-worcestershire

wolverhampton west magazine

So, what are you waiting for? Step outside and make your space look amazing this summer. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Create your perfect living space

with Carvers

Now is the perfect time to start thinking about dusting down the cobwebs and start preparing your home and garden for the forthcoming summer months.

Whether you are in need of a complete renovation or want to simply update what you already have, there are plenty of options available down at your local builders’ merchants. Creating your perfect outdoor space can be incredibly daunting and with an endless list of possibilities, this may well be a task that keeps getting put on the back-burner year after year. It can be almost impossible to imagine your ideal space when you have a blank canvas in front of you. With this in mind, pay a visit to the Landscaping Centre at Carvers Building Supplies. They have a wide range of products on display, offering lots of ideas to help you make up your mind, including natural stone paving, block paving, garden walling, fencing, edging, decking, decorative stone and accessories, along with many other feature products including Orangeries and Conservatories

by Bespoke Windows, who are based on site at Littles Lane. The Centre benefits from a huge landscaping display at the Store entrance, showcasing a large selection of products all incredibly easy to view and laid in situ, so you can get a clear idea of what the products would look like in your own back garden. They also have all manner of accessories including artificial turf and balustrade fencing, along with top soil and compost. Carvers have landscaping experts on hand to advise right through the decision-making process. If the inside of your home is your priority this season, Carvers have a fantastic range of bathroom suites – ranging from takeaway bathrooms at budget prices, right through to bathrooms with a complete design and fit service. The team can work wonders to

create a bathroom that not only lives up to your dreams, but also fits in with your budget too. Tile Choice are on hand with a huge selection of floor and wall tiles to compliment any room in your house and Dixons decorating department offer all manner of decorating materials, specialist paints, wallpapers and a full paint mixing service. They are also on hand to offer advice on any decorating problems you may have. Carvers are open to Trade and Retail customers and have a huge Kitchen, Bathroom and Cooker Centre showroom, along with a very nice Café! Carvers are open Monday to Friday 7.00am – 4.50pm and Saturdays from 7.30am to 4.50pm.

For more information contact Carvers on: 01902 577000 or log on to: www.carvers.co.uk 46

wolverhampton west magazine

Creating your perfect space for 2019? View1000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of landscaping products at the biggest and best landscaping display in the Midlands!

Paving / Walling / Fencing / Decking / Aggregates

Open to Retail & Trade customers Littles Lane, Wolverhampton WV1 1JY Call: 01902 577000 www.carvers.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

The growing season has arrived

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

There’s plenty to plant out and do in the vegetable plot at the moment.

Plant smaller quantities little and often to keep a steady supply of veg for the kitchen. Most garden centres sell packs of vegetable plants so it’s easy to plant out a few every fortnight as well as sowing seeds of radish, spring onions and basil. Tomato, Cucumber and Pepper plants should not be planted outside until the end of May and inside need some heat at night if temperatures are dropping low. Watch out for slug damage on young herbaceous plants, and summer bedding such as Marigolds. Use slug pellets or one of the natural controls that are available. ‘Slug Gone’ is a relatively new product that is made from sheep’s wool, it’s sold in pellet form which you put round the base of plants and once dampened its small fibres act as an irritant to slugs. Many herbaceous plants flower in their first year and there’s

always a good selection available on our outdoor tables. The first batch of West Country Lupins should be ready now. Their many vibrant colours make a delightful splash of colour, along with the hardy Geraniums and the coloured leaves of the Heuchera. Don’t forget the traditional Delphiniums and Foxgloves which always give a good show. Summer bedding can be planted outside from the end of May onwards, so long as we aren’t getting any late frosts. Antirrhinums, Asters and Lobelia first, leaving Marigolds, Begonias, Impatiens and

Geraniums until the beginning of June if necessary. Water well to get established, then, feed fortnightly and dead head regularly. Look out for the new Impatiens Beacon which is Downy Mildew resistant, supplies will be limited, but if you do see them give them a go, trial results have been good so far. Hoe borders frequently, preferably on a nice sunny day and any weeds that are beginning to get established will wilt and die off quickly; regular hoeing will also allow air into the top layer of soil and encourage root growth. As the weather improves the grass will start growing and need cutting. Do a light cut first, gradually reducing the mower height over several cuts. There’s plenty of moss in lawns again this year and MO Bacter organic moss treatment is the ideal product to use against it. It can be applied to your lawn any time from March through to September, it contains an organic fertiliser that releases over a 3-month period which digests the moss, greens the lawn and improves the soil. It leaves no unsightly black patches and scarifying is not necessary. An added bonus is that if you accidently get it on your borders it won’t harm the plants in them. wolverhampton west magazine

Bridgnorth Road, Shipley, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7EZ Tel 01902 700209

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GARDEN DESIGN I N S P I RA T I ON

By Andi Way, Garden Designer at Boningale Garden Creations

With spring upon us, and the summer holidays fast approaching, we’re all looking forward to long days in the garden with family and friends. This means that many of us may be considering reinventing our outdoor spaces. We put our design questions to Garden Creations’ award-winning designer, Andi Way, to secure some much-needed inspiration. Where do you get your design inspiration from? I like to visit National Trust gardens and visualise how different design aspects can be creatively broken down and applied to a domestic environment. Pinterest is another great way to discover new ideas – the beauty of it lies in its accessibility. You can collate loads of ideas and ponder them at any time on any device. Inspiration can strike anywhere, though. A friend’s car door once prompted a full design from me! I liked the way the lines interacted on the handle, and it inspired me to start sketching. Looking for lines and shapes in your surroundings is great for formulating design ideas. What is your favourite part of the design process? The first phase of any design is to understand your client’s wants and needs. Once I’m in tune with their goals and complete the garden survey, I can start on my favourite part – sitting down at a board with a pencil to doodle ideas. I then get to see those ideas bloom and come to fruition.

What has been your favourite garden design so far? I wouldn’t say I have a favourite because they’re all so different – every design is tailored for the customer’s individual needs and every garden has elements that you really like. What’s more important to me is that it works for the client and that they like and enjoy it. What is your favourite plant, and why? Verbena Bonariensis. It’s stringy with bright purple flowers and stands up above all the other plants. It looks delicate but it’s amazingly tough and flowers for ages. It makes me smile. What is the most unique thing a customer has asked you to incorporate into a design? This is a family magazine, so I can’t say the most unique thing! I was once asked to design and build some dog toilets, which was a first, and one really interesting project involved converting an old WW2 air-raid shelter. What three questions should someone consider prior to contacting a professional designer? Very simply: what is my budget, who will use the space and how do I want to use the space? It is important to be realistic and align expectations with financial capabilities, at any level – don’t forget the importance of budgeting for plants, which can often be an overlooked element. The wow factor in the garden is going to stem from the plants used. And finally, what new products or innovations are exciting you at the moment? There are a variety of species-rich lawns now available, which can provide a stunning crossover for meadow and wildflower planting schemes. They are very versatile, making them suitable for most people’s lifestyles.

If you need any further inspiration, or want to seek professional advice on giving your garden a fresh new design or planting scheme, please visit: www.boningale-garden-creations.co.uk or call me on 01902 376500 50

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New book release:

Cometh Light

First-time author, Wolverhampton-born, Dave Dungar, seen at the Wolves Museum when it first opened. Dave is a life-long Wolves fan/ season ticket holder, who honed his forensic skills in the construction industry, sorting out claims. In fact, he still does. Dave celebrates 63 years’ attendance at Molineux this year: his first game was the Friendly against Red Banner in December 1956 A number of Dave’s passions have been brought together in this book; a passion for collecting objects associated with Wolves and Wolverhampton’s local history, then thoroughly investigating the less obvious facts behind the objects, in the period between Wolves’ League entry in 1888 and the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939.

heralded the opening of the 1925 replacement Waterloo Rd Stand. Wolverhampton Wanderers; were admitted in 1888, as one of the 12 original Football League Members into the first Football League competition in the World. The Victorians referred to these 12 revered clubs as ‘The Apostles’. Apart from three FA Cup Final appearances, one won and two lost, Wolves generally ambled along for the first quarter of century after admission, before getting relegated to the second tier in 1906 and they stayed there until getting further relegated to the third tier in 1922/23. Wolves then returned to the Second Division the very next season, as Champions. In between 1906 and 1939, Wolves were involved in three more

This an era that had previously been scarcely covered on both the football and industrial fronts. How many people know Wolverhampton was the place that built the first 200 mph car in the world and the town where the most expensive Rolls Royce in the world was coach-built? As far as David knows, never before, has a football club’s history being examined concurrently with a town/city’s industrial/ commercial activity in the same period. Such concurrent review is highly relevant, as these are the industries which the fans who stood on the shale terraces and the Directors in the Wolves Board Room would have been involved in. Wolverhampton Wanderers graciously opened their archives, and so did the Wolverhampton City archive and David is grateful to both for doing so. Amongst David’s discoveries from poring over these archives, was a longlost 1909 Waterloo Rd Stand not mentioned in any previous Wolves record books and the words on the pronouncement on the huge black flag that 52

Cup Finals, winning one of them. That Final win was a shock one, when in 1908, mid-table Second Division Wolves, beat top-flight, red-hot favourites, Newcastle United, 3-1, in one of the biggest shock FA Cup Final results of all time. In the early part of the 1920s, still in the Second Division, Wolves, failed to pull off a similar result, going down 0-1 to Spurs. Enter Major Frank Buckley, who was to progressively reinvigorate Wolverhampton Wanderers, on the pitch and financially. The Major led Wolves to promotion back to the

top division in 1932, where they had an unbroken tenure of over 30 years. By the outbreak of the Second World War, Wolverhampton Wanderers had built a young vibrant team that almost pulled off the first League & Cup double of the 20th Century, in the 1938/39 Season, sadly ending up runners-up in both, and Molineux was one of the best stadiums in the country. In parallel, the Town’s industries switched from making horse drawn transport to transport employing internal combustion engines, culminating in Wolverhampton building the first 200mph car in the world in 1927. The Town had many cycle building workshops throughout virtually the whole period. Prior to this, Wolverhampton had showcased its industrial prowess, many products and skills, including traditional lock making and brass founding, at the massive 1902 Wolverhampton Arts & Industrial Exhibition: the largest Exhibition of its kind since the 1851 Crystal Palace Exhibition. Again, further evidence of the link between Wolves and Wolverhampton Industry as Wolves Secretary Jack Addenbrooke was a financial stakeholder in the 1902 Exhibition. I think everyone will agree, a period in Wolverhampton’s history that has a worthwhile story to tell……. This profusely illustrated 340 page hardback A4 Book, with many coloured and previously unpublished pictures is available from Waterstone’s, Amazon (where buyers have given it a top 5 Star rating), the Wolves Club Shop and directly from the author (contact David Dungar at david. dungar@nexus-contract.com). Anybody mentioning this magazine when purchasing directly from the author will receive a lovely free Cometh Light complimentary bookmark. All profits from the book go a local ex-servicemen’s charity. wolverhampton west magazine

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complete your new garage door will be ready to use immediately, simply press the button and enjoy. With a no-nonsense approach to pricing, it couldn’t be easier to cost up a new garage door with Garolla. Based on your measurements, colour and slat choice a quote from Garolla is inclusive of measuring, fitting and VAT. This lets you buy with confidence as there are no hidden charges – just upfront, honest prices. For a free, no-strings-attached quote head over to www.garolla.co.uk or call their friendly customer care team on 0800 468 1982 for more information.

the Princess irene Brigade at Wrottesley Park 1941-44 by Angus Dunphy

I am a Wulfrunian living in South Wales and one way I keep my roots is by writing local history books. After 2 and a half years’ research I have produced a book about the Princess Irene Brigade at Wrottesley Park 1941-4. The book was published recently and already 30 have sold of a limited print run. I am sure that many local residents in Perton Codsall and Tettenhall will find it of interest. It is a light read, copiously enriched with illustrations, but the definitive work, indeed the only work on this topic. It is stocked by Ashwood Nurseries near Kingswinford and Waterstone’s of Victoria St Wolverhampton. It is a high-quality production, A4 in format and runs to 134 pages, 23 with colour in addition to the covers. It retails at £16 and it can also be obtained from the author at 8 Chestnut Close Dinas Powys Vale of Glamorgan CF64 4TJ by enclosing a cheque.

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Support for Windows 7 ending on 14th January 2020 How does this affect me?

supporting their products if you use Windows 7.

Microsoft will no longer issue security and feature updates, making your computer more vulnerable to security risks. Anti-virus will continue to work but newly discovered vulnerabilities in the operating system won’t be fixed by an update. Internet Explorer will also no longer be updated so eventually secure websites, such as banks, won’t load properly. Gradually, printer manufacturers will stop releasing drivers for new printers, anti-virus products won’t work and other software companies will stop

Can I still upgrade to Windows 10? The free upgrade released by Microsoft is no longer available. However, it is still possible to do the free upgrade but it is recommended to do a completely new install, which means backing up your data and reinstalling software afterwards.

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PAYCARE IN THE COMMUNITY Wolverhampton high School reacheS neW netball heightS Paycare’s continued support of local sports clubs has helped the netball team from Wolverhampton Girls’ High School reach new heights. The Wolverhampton-based Health Cash Plan provider has pledged financial support by sponsoring the school’s new under-16s kits, after learning of its need for better representation through its long-standing sponsorship of Libra Lea Netball Club.

Kevin (in the checked shirt) with Libra Lea Netball Club

After winning all their games and qualifying for the regional finals in November 2018, the team has since qualified for the National Schools Netball competition — the only state school in the West Midlands to do so.

is part of both Libra Lea and Wolverhampton Girls’ High School team, and learned about their recent successes and need for new kits.

Kevin Rogers, CEO of Paycare, explained: “Having been a long-time sponsor of Libra Lea Netball club and attending one of their recent events, I started speaking to a parent of a player who

“We decided to sponsor the club and help out with their new kits to recognise the team’s incredible achievements, which have been gratefully received by both students and parents — who have been, and continue to be, their biggest champions!”

rUnnerS SUpporteD thanKS to event SponSorShip Paycare is pledging its support to a local event and thousands of its participants by signing up as a major sponsor. The not-for-profit Health Cash Plan provider has signed up as a leading supporter of the Wolverhampton Marathon which has seen it provide financial support as part of the planning of the event, as well as a commitment to work with fellow sponsors Carvers to provide marketing and promotional support.

Dicky Dodd with last year’s Paycare Mini Marathon Runners

The Wolverhampton Marathon is taking place on 1st September and will see thousands of participants taking part in a number of dedicated events including the relay race, children’s mini marathon, and cycling and wheelchair races, with raised funds going towards its four causes — Compton Care, Scouts Wolverhampton East, the PDSA and Radio Wulfrun. Paycare, which provides Health Cash Plans to businesses and individuals to ensure optimal financial, mental and physical wellbeing, is also the main sponsor of the Relay Race and is encouraging many of its own corporate policyholders to sign up, as well as putting forward a team of its own. Kevin Rogers, CEO of Paycare, explained: “We’re delighted to be yet again involved in the Wolverhampton Marathon and to

support the organisers in making it one of the biggest and best events yet. “Whether seasoned marathon runners or complete beginners, the event brings together a diverse mix of individuals who are each committed to completing the course for many reasons, including raising money for a cause they care deeply about, or for personal health and fitness goals. “As a not-for-profit in business to make a difference, operating within the health sector, and having a history in the city dating back to 1874, it was only fitting that we’re supporting the event in a bigger way this year. We’re very excited to be playing a key role and in working alongside fellow sponsors to encourage as many individuals and businesses to get involved.”

For more information, or to register to take part in the marathon, please visit www.wolverhamptonmarathonevents.co.uk

wolverhampton west magazine

MAY/JUNE, 2019

emilY’S laSt call

For SUpport counties as well as supporting the surrounding regions, responding to over 2,000 calls a year. But it receives no funding from the Government or the National Lottery, meaning they rely on public donations to the tune of £9m to keep the service going each year.

Emily Glew, Marketing and Partnerships Manager at Paycare, is set to unleash her wild side and hone her survival skills in the Amazon rainforest in aid of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity. She’s heading to Brazil in May for a nine-day adventure, with the aim of raising £6,000 for the charity — of which she’s already raised over £4,000. The once-in-a-lifetime event will see Emily swap the comfort of her day job for a trek through the rainforest, as well as canoeing along the Amazon’s winding rivers, meeting an indigenous tribe and learning about the area’s history and wildlife. Emily said: “In this ultimate challenge I’ll be using my newly-

acquired survival skills and keeping my wits about me as I avoid giant snakes, poisonous frogs, and caimans. It will test my strength both physically and mentally as I leave behind my dayto-day luxuries and push through the vegetation in the world’s largest tropical rainforest. “Paycare’s support in my mission to raise as much as possible for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity has been fantastic and they’ve set up a dedicated page on the website to share daily updates on my latest adventures and how the funds raised will help the charity continue to save lives.” Emily will also be surrounded by thousands of species of animals and insects and will take part in nocturnal wildlife excursions to find even more — many of which could be poisonous and deadly!

Emily added: “It costs around £2,500 every time an air ambulance is sent to a patient – so the more money I can raise the better. Any of us, or our family members or friends, could need an air ambulance one day so I’m passionate about doing as much as I can. “With it now being only a matter of a couple of weeks away, I’d love to see my target of £6,000 exceeded before I go and would encourage anyone interested in supporting me — big or small — to visit my Just Giving page. Thank you again to everyone who’s kindly supported me to-date, and of course, to Paycare for being an incredible network of support.” Visit www.paycare.org/ amazon-trek/ for more information or log on to www. justgiving.com/fundraising/ paycare to donate towards Emily’s adventure.

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity has three air ambulances which operate primarily across six www.twitter.com/MyPaycare/

www.facebook.com/MyPaycare/

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www.linkedin.com/company/paycare/ 61

Brewood Cycle Challenge

back for its 10th year!

Once again cyclists will be taking part in the Brewood Cycle Challenge.

This much loved event is a firm favourite on local enthusiast calendars. Held this year on 8th June cyclists have the option of the 50 or 100km route, both of which take riders through the stunning Staffordshire and Shropshire countryside. An established ‘must-do’ event in the area, cyclists will start from St Dominic’s School Brewood and navigate the fully signposted route through beautiful leafy country lanes whilst taking in some challenging (but short) hills and wonderful scenery. There is always a friendly atmosphere as cyclists return back to St Dominic’s for refreshments, music and medals!

while as cyclists complete their ride and return to Brewood. This fun charity ride continues to fundraise for the 2nd Brewood Scout Group. All the proceeds will go towards renovating the Scout facilities ensuring the next generation can benefit from this fantastic organisation which prepares young people with skills for life. As always – places are in demand! For full event details and to enter online go to www. brewoodcyclechallenge.com or visit our Facebook and Twitter pages. Are you up for the challenge? See you on the 8th June!

We are delighted to announce that this year in celebration of our tenth anniversary music will be provided by local star and Britain’s Got Talent finalist, Jean Martyn. Jean will be supporting us and playing her energetic tunes for a 62

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Willows Dental

offering aid in Tanzania lead physicians however what they lack is the resources. Not just the medical supplies but also the food and drink to nourish the children and their parents while they’re undergoing treatment. The Willows team and their amazing patients managed to raise over £3600 which was used to help fund the chemotherapy for all 35 of the children that were staying in the facility. The parents and children in the facility also help raise funds for their own care by making bags and dolls to sell.

Cancer in children is one of the universe’s most horrible things. 85% of children’s cancer in the world presents in developing areas like Tanzania. The fight against children’s cancer in Tanzania began in 2004, 9 out of 10 children with cancer lost their lives. Neels’ parents grew up in East Africa so when the opportunity arose to help at some of the children’s cancer wards in Tanzania, it was a no brainer.

The Tanzanian based NGO’s name is Tumaini La Maisha and it means hope for life. Cancers such as Retina Blastoma (tumors on the retina) and Lymphomas are thankfully quite rare in the UK and when they do occur mortality rates are thankfully incredibly low. However, the same can’t be said for developing countries such as Tanzania. In 2004 only 5% of tumors were picked up on and now that figure is 65%. There is still a long way to go but there have been radical improvements. Both surgeons and doctors have the skills to treat patients in the hospitals under the guidance of

Jay and Ryan (Neel and Vicki’s two boys) both had fun playing with the children and learning about what it was like living in Africa. Both Jay and Ryan used their pocket money to buy cakes and orange juice for the children, which everyone devoured. The charity that helps and looks after these children is called (We Are TLM) and can be found easily on Facebook if you’d like to help. All profits from tooth brushes and all other oral health products sold both this year and last here at Willows Dental and Implant Centre went towards funding the chemotherapy for these lovely children. Neel, Vicki and the team at Willows Dental would like to thank all of their clients who have helped support We Are TLM.

wolverhampton west magazine

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

Discover something new, try an activity, or just enjoy some ‘me time’ by visiting Dudley borough’s visitor attractions. Dudley borough, the historic capital of the Black Country, is proud of its heritage. Its attractions reflect its unique blend of leisure, industry and history, ensuring there is something for everyone. The Caste Hill area of Dudley attracts thousands of visitors each year, drawn by the award winning Black Country Living Museum celebrating 300 years of local industrialisation; the famous Dudley Zoological Gardens, home to hundreds of exotic and endangered animals, the World Monument Status Tecton enclosures and the 11th Century castle; the Dudley Canal Tunnel and Limestone Mines which immerses travellers into the magnificent underground world of mining and canal boats. You can also stop by at Dudley Museum at the Archives, to follow our self guided tour through the history of Dudley, come face to face with dinosaurs and gaze upon a genuine Turner painting. For lovers of glass, we have the culturally important Stourbridge Glass Quarter, home to the International Festival of Glass taking place during the August Bank Holiday this year. Visit www.ifg.org.uk for more details. One of the last four remaining in the country, The Grade II listed Red House Glass Cone stands a proud 100ft, testament to over 400 years of glass making in 66

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

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

Himley Hall and Park

Glassblowing at Red House Glass Cone

wolverhampton west magazine

Father’s Day Crafts

at Fine Food and Craft Market… Penkridge Market will be holding a Fabulous Fine Food and Craft Market on Saturday 15th June, just in time for Father’s Day. And to help you with your preparations, there will be children’s activities such as making Father’s Day cards… There will also be plenty of fabulous food and drink plus local crafts available, making it a great place to buy all of your gifts and special treats for Father’s Day. The Market will be open between 9am and 3pm, and admission to the event and parking is free of charge. If you’re planning on cooking a special Father’s Day lunch, then there

couldn’t be a better place to pick up all of your ingredients for a fantastic Sunday Roast. Local farms will be there selling meat, poultry, game, and pies fresh from the farm, as well as the traditional fruit and veg stalls. There will also be a wide range of delicious, local produce such as homemade cakes, pies and preserves. In addition to all of this fabulous food, there will be stalls selling cards; plants; garden ornaments; clothes and watches to name but a few, plus handmade chocolates, fudge and toffees.

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Win a

Wine taSting

for t Wo

with halfpenny green Wine estate Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, near Wombourne, South Staffs, produces a range of 13 award-winning English wines from grapes grown on-site, including whites, reds, rosés and a selection of traditional method sparkling wines. The wines are served in the site’s own restaurant and sold in the light and airy Wine Loft area of the three-floor shop and deli, adjacent. Additionally, a selection of the Wine Estate’s vintages can be found adorning the shelves in many local farm shops, garden centres and delis, as well as selected branches of Waitrose throughout the Midlands.

To learn more about Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, head to www.halfpennygreen.co.uk

CoMPetitioN Here’s your chance to experience Halfpenny Green Wine Estate’s award-winning wines first hand - one lucky winner will receive a Premium Wine Tasting Experience for two.

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.

Relax in the shop’s Wine Loft, overlooking the rolling Staffordshire countryside. Guests will enjoy four half glasses of wine – including one sparkling wine – tasting notes and crackers. Guests will also receive a selection of cheeses from the deli counter to pair with the wines.

Terms and Conditions Entrants must be 18 years of age or over to enter the competition. The winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and notified by telephone. Booking date subject to availability. No cash or alternative prize available.

All entries to be received by Friday 14th June 2019.

All options come with a self-guided trail – a relaxing and scenic route through the vines, with a short history of the vineyard and the grapes.

For a chance to win, just answer the following question correctly:

On visiting Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, where would you find their complete selection of wines to buy? 68

wolverhampton west magazine

aLLaN BeNNett

Local produce with a smile

along with sound business sense and dedication to creating a brand based on fundamental principles. Allan started his career as a schoolboy helping the local butcher with deliveries by the butcher’s bike. A long association with the Meat Industry had started. He joined Gills in 1953 and quickly rose through the ranks from shop floor to eventually become Managing Director of the Company. Allan still has the same enthusiasm now as when he started in the trade and, with the staff, concentrates all his efforts on his shop in Station Road, Codsall. Steven Bennett, Allan’s son, joined the business to learn the trade when he was 17 and has been working alongside his father ever since gaining knowledge and know-how along the way.

Allan Bennett Butchers has become an institution in Codsall, providing fine cuts of meat and expert service, all served up with a friendly smile from staff. Allan’s business is still proving popular among loyal customers that value the traditional experience. Passion and knowledge are key to being a successful butcher,

Allan welcomes customers old and new to come and enjoy the taste of his success. Stepping into the shop you can’t help but warm to his charming and infectious personality. Allan adds: “Customer satisfaction is our main priority, with hard work and attention to detail in every cut of meat we do, we always strive to achieve this. I believe that quality and service are essential ingredients for a successful business in the meat industry”. With the barbecue season around the corner a visit to the shop is a must to experience the delights of Allan’s barbecue packs - yum-yum!

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 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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A Family Affair Family and friends attended a surprise afternoon party held at The Mount Hotel for Carlina Trubbianelliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 80-year young birthday. A true essence of southern Italy came to life with an accordionist playing all the old traditional folk tunes! Carlina showed dance skills belying her years, sheÂ said her secret to keeping young is her good old-fashioned healthy recipes and keeping active, with the odd glass of wine here and there (of course).

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Congratulations

Charles and Samantha! Here at Wolverhampton West Magazine we love a wedding, so we were delighted to hear that Royston Blythe’s supertalented stylist, Charles Doeuk had tied-the-knot with Samantha Westwood. Marrying on Saturday 30th March - at the beautiful St John’s Church, Lawley the couple were watched by family and friends as they said ‘I do’. Once the service was over, it was time to head to the stunning Tern Hill Hall, Market Drayton,

for a fabulous wedding reception where Charles, Samantha and their guests partied the night away. When all the celebrations were over, Charles got back to work, making his clients at the salon look amazing. An integral part of the Royston Blythe team, Charles has worked at the salon for a decade and seen much success in his hairdressing career, achieving five nominations as a British Hair Awards finalist and three as a L’oreal Colour Trophy semifinalist.

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10% off one treatment until the end of June 2019

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Eating Out, Food, Drink and Entertainment

Promote your venue to over 50,000* readers with Wolverhampton West Magazine To find out how your venue can be featured please call Gisella on 01902 744217 78

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WhaT’s on This summer sunday 16Th June

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Black tie theme, not forgetting your mask. Champagne and canapé reception, 3 course meal, entertainment, DJ until 1am, £32pp.

With live music, BBQ, face painter and a bouncy castle for lots of family fun. Free entry.

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

Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant Established 1989

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

Restaurant of the year West Midlands region 2016

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

Open 7 days including Bank Holidays 5.30pm until 11.30pm

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

Tel: 01902 324148 / 324437 High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DN www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Fantastic food at

Bringing fantastic music and fabulous food and drink to Wolverhampton, Blossoms Liquor + Grind offers the perfect venue, whatever you’ve got planned, as our restaurant reviewer, Helen Taylor, discovered when she took a break from work to meet-up with a friend for a rather indulgent weekday lunch. Since opening back in December 2018, Blossoms Liquor + Grind has become a must-visit venue in the city. Located in the former Little Civic building – on North Street – the space has been completely transformed into a stunning floral haven. In keeping with the name, there are several beautiful artificial blossom trees adorning the bar and seating

areas, as well as floral decoration throughout which serves to create a fabulously unique atmosphere. In fact, a quirky vibe defines the venue and that’s apparent throughout every aspect of the business: from the retro playlist to the signature handcrafted cocktails and mouth-watering naughtyBUN menu. My friend, Tara, had already heard plenty of good things about Blossoms before we arrived and, as someone who likes a cocktail – or two – she couldn’t wait to check-out the Mixology drinks list. We started off with a glass of Rose, whilst we got to grips with the menu. There’s a clear street food influence and certainly something for everyone. In fact, the likes of ‘Hot Hulk’ £6.50 – sweet homemade brioche bun with buttermilk battered chicken thigh, hot breaded adobo

mayonnaise, crazy-cheese drip, crisp iceburg lettuce and fresh, fiery green chillies – and ‘Shrimp Bae’ £8 – Steamed ‘bae-o’ bun with buttermilk battered whole shrimp, peppery radish, fresh lime juice, chilli flakes and a coconut cream - are sure to impress any foodie. For me though, the two vegan options were hard to ignore: ‘Avocuddle’ £7.50 – CHCKN vegan wedge, perfectly ripened avocado, creamy vegan mayonnaise, chilli flakes, fresh coriander and peppery radish on a sweet homemade brioche bun’ and ‘Funkin Vegan’ £7 – a CHCKN vegan wedge on Blossom’s signature sweet homemade brioche bun and complete with magic-vegancheeseless-drip, crisp iceburg lettuce and maple bourbon sauce.’ I chose the latter, whilst Tara opted for ‘Cowboy Club’ £7 – ‘buttermilk battered chicken tender on a sweet brioche bun with crazy-cheese

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Tara however, disagreed. She was adamant that when it came to flavour, the ‘Cowboy Club’ just couldn’t be matched; the chicken was moist and perfectly cooked and when combined with the crunchy lettuce, fresh tomato and mouth-watering blend of sauces, every bite was pure bliss. Although, when it came to the vegan cheese - that was smothering one portion of our cheesy fries - Tara was hooked.

drip, sliced sweet tomatoes, crisp iceburg lettuce, baconaise and Tennessee BBQ sauce.’ Then, there’s the hard-to-refuse sides: chicken wings, thighs, tenders and shrimp, not to mention the ultra-indulgent naughtyFries selection: ‘Cheesy-Cheesy’ £4 – 3 cheese gooey fries – and ‘Kung-Fu Fries’ £4.50 – topped with Kung-Fu salt, sesame seeds, wasabi mayonnaise, Korean sticky sauce and spring onion. And, a vegan cheese alternative is available.

temptation at Blossoms we ordered a freakSHAKE. There are four indulgent shakes to choose from: ‘Cereal Killer’, ‘Bad Berry Mess’, ‘Brownie Points’ and ‘Kandy King’. For me, it had to be ‘Bad Berry Mess’ £4.50 – fresh strawberries, raspberry ripple and black cherry compote with rich berry ice cream and topped with fresh cream and white chocolate.

Having never tasted dairy-free cheese before, she couldn’t believe just how ‘cheesy’ – and delicious - it was. And, I was in complete agreement.

Tara ordered ‘Brownie Points’ £4.50 – triple chocolate ice cream, gooey brownie pieces, salted caramel sauce, chocolate whipped cream and Oreo crumblings.

In no time at all we’d devoured the burgers and all that remained were a few chips that we soon finished-off.

Like everything else at Blossoms the presentation was amazing. Each shake looked simply too good to eat and would make any sweet-tooth’s dreams come true.

We wasted no time moving on to cocktails – yes, I know it was a Thursday lunchtime but, why not? So, Blossoms’ Manager, Heather Chell, created a fabulous ‘Pacho H7’ £6 - which combines coca leaf, lemon, gin, apple juice and vanilla. Garnished with a primrose and packed with fresh basil, the cocktail looked fabulous and served as the perfect refreshing post-lunch treat. Not content leaving without giving in to the ultimate

Whilst slurping our way through the shakes we realised it was probably time to get back to work. Unwilling to part with our half-drunk shakes though; we took them with us to finish on the walk back. With the weekend fast approaching, we made plans to return to Blossoms at the weekend to check out the live music and maybe, just maybe, treat ourselves all over again.

So, we ditched the diet and ordered a regular and sweet potato version of the ‘Cheesy-Cheesy’ fries – one with ordinary cheese and the other with the vegan alternative. With our orders placed, conversation turned to cocktails and we were soon busy trying to decide which one to try – after all you can’t pay a visit to Blossoms and not order a cocktail, right? But, before we’d made a decision our food arrived and we started getting excited over the beautifully presented grub. So, we reached for our phones to snap a couple of pics to post on social media - to make every one of our followers super-jealous and hungry – before tucking-in. Tasting just as good as it looked, the vegan CHCKN wedge was absolutely delicious. Created using the freshest ingredients and packed with flavour, even the most committed meat-eater couldn’t deny that this vegan burger could rival any meaty alternative.

Blossoms Liquor + Grind North Street, Wolverhampton WV1 1RD. Open Fri 12pm-2am, Sat 12pm-3am. Food served Fri-Sat 12pm-8pm. Instagram: @blossomswolverhampton Website: www.blossomsliquorandgrind.co.uk Facebook: Blossoms Liquor + Grind

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WHAT’S ON... AT THe SHreWSbury ArmS BottoMleSS It’s PRoSeCCo back! afteRnoon tea

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The Shrewsbury Arms, High Street, Albrighton WV7 3LA. T: 01902 www.theshrewsburyarms.com

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The Oakley Arms Brewood

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

BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN FOR:

FAThERS DAy SuNDAy JuNE 16Th GIN FESTIVAL ON SATuRDAy 20Th JuLy Tickets available

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

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

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OPEN 24/7 | LIVE GAMING | £20,000 JACKPOT SLOTS | ON SITE BOOKIES

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

a unique range of hand-crafted cocktails, craft beers

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

Blooming marvellous. OPEN FRIDAY AND SATURDAY FROM 12PM 7A North Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1RD

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A truly exciting and vibrant eating experience offering exquisite fine cuisine and traditional culinary styles from India and Bangladeshi

SPECIAL OFFER WHEN DINING IN Popadom and chutney tray, Any starter, Any main dish*, Any nan bread or any rice Available Sunday to Thursday £11.95 per person / £7.95 children under 10 *Steak and king prawn dishes £2.50 extra. Game meat not included.

Open 7 days a week 5.30pm – 11.30pm. Free home delivery within 4 mile radius, minimum order of £15. 10% discount on collected take-away orders, minimum order £15. www.flamingoperton.co.uk

To avoid disappointment please book on

01902 744500 or 01902 745200 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

7 Anders Square, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7QH 85

Another Busy Summer ahead for

Halfpenny Green Wi n e E s t a t e

For those interested in learning more about the exciting world of English wine, Halfpenny Green runs tours and tastings throughout the summer months, which are available on selected dates (by booking only). Guests are taken to see the vines and the winery, learn about how Halfpenny Green’s wines are made and indulge in an all-important wine tasting! All of this is followed by a two-course meal. Great value, at just £24.95 per person – gift vouchers are also available to purchase from the shop! If you prefer the stronger stuff, Gin Tasting Vouchers are also available to buy at £28.50 per person.

After their biggest harvest ever in 2018, the Wine Estate, set in the stunning South Staffordshire countryside, is braced ready to see what this year’s harvest will yield. To add to their eager anticipation, the Wine Estate will not only be hosting their fourth Food & Wine Festival, this year will see their first ever Gin Festival! Due to its popularity, the Wine Estate looks forward to hosting their fourth Food & Wine Festival on Saturday 8th June. An event which all the family can enjoy, with food and drink stalls (and plenty of samples, of course), live music and a barbecue throughout the day, this free event promises to be a fantastic day! And to top it all, on the following day, Sunday 9th June, the Estate will hold its first ever Gin Festival! Here, not only will all those gin lovers out there be treated to an abundance of artisan gin stalls and again, live music and 86

a barbecue, they will also have the opportunity, if they so desire, to buy a Gin Tasting Ticket for the day (£15.00). This will entitle them to try twelve gins, together with a full-size Gin & Tonic of their choice! This is a must if you have a penchant for gin! This year also saw the opening of the Estate’s new Loft Balcony, which is the latest addition to the on-site shop, set across three floors, with panoramic views of the South Staffordshire countryside. The authentic converted barn stocks a range of traditional produce - such as jams, preserves and chutneys – plus fresh cheeses and olives at the deli counter, and, best of all, there’s an entire floor dedicated to alcohol, including their whole range of thirteen awardwinning wines and over one hundred artisan British gins!

If drinks aren’t your thing, or you fancy indulging your stomach too, the Wine Estate is home to a restaurant and tearooms, open for lunch seven days a week. The restaurant serves up a range of delicious homemade produce, all cooked fresh to order by a dedicated team of chefs. So, this summer is the perfect time to visit your local vineyard – Halfpenny Green Wine Estate! Call 01384 221122 for enquiries and table bookings, or head to its website www.halfpennygreen.co.uk.

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FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL - SAT 8TH JUNE FROM 10:30AM • FOOD & DRINK STALLS • BARBECUE & LIVE MUSIC GIN FESTIVAL - SUN 9TH JUNE FROM 11:00AM • GIN STALLS & TASTINGS • BARBECUE & LIVE MUSIC

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

AWARD-WINNING ENGLISH WINES

SHOP, DELI & WINE LOFT

NEW TRANQUIL BALCONY AREA, FOR WINE AND GIN TASTINGS.

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

Guided Tours

Private Dining, Functions & Tours

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

Public tours available for booking in 2019. Upcoming dates: 23rd May and 13th June.

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

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

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By Rob Taylor

The Courtyard

W o mb o u r n e

The Courtyard in Wombourne is owned and run by husband and wife team, Simon and Louise Ward. When I arrive at the restaurant I have no idea what their pedigree is (until Simon fills me in over drinks at the bar: both have an impressive background in hospitality) but I’m fairly certain they know how to cook, and how to run a top establishment. I’ll tell you how I know this: it’s not because of the rave reviews you’ll find on social media, nor is it because I’ve visited before or scoped out The Courtyard’s website. It’s because, in this instance, I have a secret weapon: a friend of mine whose life revolves around two things: real ale and real food. He loathes ‘fine (posh) dining’, characterising it as “a loathsome mix of sycophantic service, overelaborate cooking and absurdly high prices”; equally he is excoriating about ‘pub grub’. He hates all beer that is produced in high volume; anything that hasn’t only fermented in the vessel from which it was 88

served, with only natural – not forced – carbonation, makes him apoplectic. He says the restaurant made a really good impression on him when he attended last year’s Beer Festival at The Courtyard (along with over 300 other beer boffins) and then subsequently dined there. So if he says it’s good, then it must be really good. But don’t take his words for it, continue to read mine… after all I have, over the last ten years, consumed restaurant reviews like they were remedies for an ill-defined ailment. And as such I know the difference between artichokes and cardoons – I think.

The Courtyard is nestled away from the hustle and bustle of Wombourne’s busy High Street in an actual courtyard. One or two signs on High Street point the way to what is fast becoming the village’s worst kept secret. Success speaks for itself and Simon and Louise have seen nothing but since they took the helm in December 2017, with a mission to provide discerning diners with top-notch food at reasonable money. “We like to think we offer Wombourne a bit more. The village is well served by two Indian restaurants and many pubs but we feel there is still demand for us – we definitely bring something

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new to the table,” says Simon – who is our genial host this evening – as he leads my girlfriend Nicola and I into a comfortable lounge space, which is informal, warm and rich in contemporary décor and adjacent to the bar with a view through into the kitchen. “We hope to fill a gap in the local market – better than pub food, freshly-cooked and conceived by people who are passionate about food and drink.” And although at this point I am, to be brutally honest, most interested the filling the gap in my stomach, I indulge Simon further because passion is a watchword (or should be) for the hospitality industry and it is what helps set The Courtyard apart. One look at the menu says it all; passion seeps from its every pore. And I’m not talking about pretentiousness: it’s not written by a chef who thinks he is a philosopher, it is instead a symphony of harmonious flavour balancing, allied to very reasonable pricing. Louise is Head Chef and has over 25 years’ in the hospitality industry (so has Simon) but she’s not spent all of that time in the kitchen, so she’s not frazzled from over-work and is still hungry to prove herself. Simon has carved a niche for himself via his wine tasting evenings; he boasts an encyclopaedic knowledge that we’re both happy to tap into when we order drinks. Nicola samples a popular and hard-to-find (The Courtyard is one of but a handful of stockists in the UK) niche product of her own in Netherton’s own Dr Eamers’ gin. We’re then led up to a charming dining space which is in equal measure private and spacious. In fact, it’s beyond what even we are expecting in both size and stature.

Separating the bar area and lounge from the dining space is a masterstroke and delivers a real sense of occasion. Here we tuck into our starters: Nicola enjoys ‘Gyoza – Japanese vegetable-filled dumplings, teriyaki dipping sauce’ (£5.25); I have ‘Tempura battered prawns with pak choi, ginger, sweet chilli dressing’ (£5.95). We enjoy every morsel: special praise must go to the dumplings (yes, I did try one) because nailing a proper dumpling mix can be tricky but here you get flavours, textures and combinations that are pretty damn smart. The dipping sauce is exquisite also. Now the main courses… ‘Cajun spiced chicken breast, sweet potato rosti, tomato salsa, lime yoghurt’ (£12.95) for Nicola and ‘Pan fried sea bass, Italian style tomato and olive sauce, crushed new potatoes, tenderstem

broccoli, baby corn’ (£14.95) is my choice. Prime ingredients, carefully sourced and cooked with real brio to bring out their qualities leave me convinced that we’ll be visiting The Courtyard again soon. Nicola, once she stops raving about the succulence of the chicken, agrees. After Simon has delivered to us (in customarily fast, efficient style) two tantalisingly tasty desserts – ‘Crème brûlée and orange shortbread’ (£5.95) and ‘Chocolate Malteser cheesecake, vanilla ice cream’ (£5.95) – he elicits our opinion on the evening and reveals he is pleased that we “selected items from the menu that allowed us to really push ourselves and showcase what we’re able to do here.” It’s The Courtyard’s willingness to extend itself and its unwillingness to remain static that points to its continued success. After all, who wants more of the same, again and again? So, the next time you do “the usual” and visit your local pub, remember what you’re missing. Once you’ve tried The Courtyard for yourself, you’ll no longer need the words of strangers. You’ll be a regular customer in no time; I know I will. The Courtyard, Walkers Way, High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DP. For bookings please call 01902 894400.

www.courtyardwombourne.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Wolverhampton Racecourse P ROU D TO S U P P ORT

TEENAGE CANCER TRUST

Wolverhampton Racecourse, located just under two milefrom Wolverhampton’s city centre, hosts over 80 fixtures each year and welcomes over 120,000 visitors to its fantastic race days. The venue has a fantastic customer base for both racing and conferencing, and its large outdoor space and vast amount of room options make it the perfect venue for a wide range of events including product launches, exhibitions, weddings, award dinners, outdoor space, carpark hire and centre course hire. With its onsite Holiday Inn hotel and excellent transport and road

links, and even a helipad for guests travelling far and wide, it’s no surprise the venue is going from strength to strength. Wolverhampton Racecourse joined forces with Teenage Cancer Trust for a day of fun for all the family on Easter Bank Holiday, Monday 22nd April. The family themed raceday, which was free for children, was jam-packed with activities including bouncy castles, inflatables, face painting, Easter Eggs and a chocolate tombola. Not only was there plenty to do around the racecourse to keep the kids entertained, but families enjoyed live-action horse racing right from the trackside. The racecourse has been at the heart of Wolverhampton city centre since 1825, so supporting a national charity with local feet was extremely important to the venue. Every year

approximately 220 young people are diagnosed with cancer in the West Midlands region. Teenage Cancer Trust makes sure that no young person faces cancer alone. Teenage Cancer Trust funds 3 specialist units in the West Midlands, at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham and the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Birmingham. Kerry Morris, Marketing Manager at Wolverhampton Racecourse said “Our Family Fundays are always very popular with local families and it was great to support and raise awareness and vital funds for Teenage Cancer Trust at such an appropriate fixture this Easter.” Teenage Cancer Trust will return again in the summer when the racecourse hosts its ‘Oh, I do like to be beside the seaside’ theme on Friday 16 August.

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

w w w. w o l v e r h a m p t o n - r a c e c o u r s e . c o . u k 90

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ARC AND VMS LIVE PRESENTS MUSIC LIVE AT WOLVERHAMPTON RACECOURSE

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Reap the benefits of

S W IMMING

Swimming is one of the cheapest and most effective workouts; Not only that, but it’s an activity that the whole family can do together. ✔✔ full body workout ✔✔ Burn those calories

✔✔ Great for General Wellbeing ✔✔ Easy on the joints ✔✔ Exercise without the sweat ✔✔ Exercise for the whole family

Why not get swimming with your family during the school holidays? To find out more visit www.sstaffs.gov.uk/leisure South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres also provide award-winning swimming lessons for children and adults, so if you can’t swim or you’re not a confident swimmer and find the idea of entering a swimming pool daunting, get in touch with us at Leisure@sstaffs.gov.uk or find out more at www.sstaffs.gov.uk/swimacademy

CALL NOW Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre 01922 417790 Penkridge Leisure Centre 01785 714152

Codsall Leisure Centre 01902 844032 Wombourne Leisure Centre 01902 898202

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C a r v e r s c e l e b r at e

the retirement of their Employee of the Year Each year local employer, Carvers Building Supplies select a member of its workforce who has worked over and above expectations during the last twelve-month period and award them the Employee of the Year company shield, along with the kudos that goes with it. This year, the person who has been selected just so happens to be celebrating 25 year’s service with the company and is also planning his retirement! Heavyside Sales manager, John Clinton is delighted to receive the award and comments “I have enjoyed my time at Carvers working with a great team of colleagues and Directors. Our loyal base of customers nurtured over the years have been a pleasure to be associated with and even more so during our difficulties with the fire”.

L-R: Gemma Clinton, John Clinton, Brenda Clinton, Matt Clinton, Sam Clinton

John joined the company back in 1994, when Company turnover was at £11 million and the main building at Littles Lane was a disused railway goods warehouse with a leaky roof! Fast forward 25 years and the Company is boasting a £39 million turnover and operating from a brand-new facility at the Littles Lane site, with a timber production site just a few miles down the road and a gas bottling and distribution depot at Four Ashes. Sales Director, Andrell Dinham comments “Rarely do you find a

Howzat

person that can maintain such high standards of professionalism and dedication to his craft, throughout his career. It has been an honour to work with John, and I wish him a well-deserved and happy retirement. John has certainly set the bar high for the next generation”. John celebrated his send off in March with a lunch at the Molineux, surrounded by colleagues and customers. The Directors and staff at Carvers wish him a long and happy retirement

for an event to remember!

Cricket fans will no doubt flock to Fordhouses Cricket Club on Thursday 11th July, for it’s not too often an England cricket team visit Wolverhampton! Fordhouses Cricket Club has been part of the Wolverhampton community since 1927, embracing the ethos of a communitybased sports and social club. The club has secured the hosting of a prestigious England Masters day from the PCA (Professional Cricketers Association) on Thursday 11th July which will include three events in one. The morning will see junior players and local schools take part in a masterclass with the England professionals. Then an opportunity for up to 200 guests to meet the squad over a 3-course silver service lunch in a purpose-built marquee. Tickets for this are £70 (each includes a 3-course meal, a commemorative

souvenir, Twenty20 cricket match ticket and meet and greet) Corporate and VIP tables are also available. A VIP table includes the opportunity for a VIP England cricketer to be sat at your table throughout the marquee lunch, speeches and auction. Later in the afternoon the wider community and general public are invited to buy tickets on the gate at £5 to enjoy the Twenty20 match involving PCA players and

an FCC select XI and meet the England professionals as they mingle around the ground. With Masters players including former England stars Adam Hollioake, Matthew Hoggard, Phil DeFreitas, Jonathan Trott, Andrew Caddick, Owais Shah and many others, the day promises to be one of a kind for cricket fans and indeed Wolverhampton.

Further details can be found on the club’s website www. fordhousescricketclub.co.uk or to enquire about individual tickets and/or corporate tables please email: pcamasters@fordhousescricketclub.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

ADVERTORIAL

1. Your holiday starts with skin prep. Exfoliate well so you do not tan old skin cells so your tan lasts longest. Use dry skin brushing it can help cellulite too. Your face needs gentle care use Heaven Bee Polish helps the skin look it’s best by dissolving old skin damage such as lines and scars to start afresh. Pre-tan products do have effect, use them to bring your melanin to the surface, your natural protection barrier.

helps to stop DNA damage of skin tissue, it actually releases a peptide within the skin to produce lots of collagen and elastin. This means you get younger as you tan. Prism technology is in Heaven Age defiance Cream and Overnight Success Oxygen Cream. 7. Looking good while tanning, wear make up on your face on the first few days to help you protect against sun rays, as your skin starts to turn browner and healthier you can apply less then none. Heaven’s Silk Skin BeeBee Cream is a winner for this, it’s light and moisturises but looks like a second skin and the colour is made from copper iron and zinc these protect and enhance the delicate skin tissues.

2. Hydrate on your journey, if you do drink alcohol or lots of coffee chase it with the same glass of clear water every time. Hydrated skin is healthier skin, tans better and safer. 3. Your skin takes 3 days for the melanin to reach its surface when exposed to sunlight. This means you are not tanning for three days you are only burning , which means you will not tan you will just peel. So go in the sun in small bursts cover up and then go back out. No more than half an hour a time at 26 degrees.

8. Vitamins in foods we eat are our best defence against short and long term skin damage. So prep before and on holiday & post holiday with a vitamin overload. Smoothies, fresh fruits with your alcohol and non-alcohol cocktails.

4. As the sun starts to brown you it’s actually cooking your skin this continues after dark. To save your skin stop this cooking process with ‘Hydro Cleansing Milk’ the French lavender stops the cook process. It’s a great dissolver of oil but leaves a moisture film and the coconut milk is a natural after-sun. 5. One big reason for sun holidays is our skin and well-being love Vitamin D production. Did you know the first 15 mins of sun light is enough to make the body produce Vit D. But only if your eyes are not covered with sunglasses. So after 15 minutes you can pop your sun glasses on and continue to get those rays. 6. Sun protection! You must do this. Our skin cannot cope with the ozone layers break down. So we have to protect. Heaven has developed a Prism Light Defiance technology that

9. Fluid retention if your like me my body only has to look at a plane or the sun and it instantly doubles is size. This is our bodies defence mechanism. So green tea, or nettles steeped in hot water. The very best is cider vinegar every night 7 days before your holiday it builds the potassium levels in your system and helps your body to let go of fluid. 10. Have a great time, happiness is the best anti-ageing we can have it releases hormones that look after our skin. The same as when your in love. Oh and one last thing stop midges biting tonic water makes your blood not be so tasty. My After Soother stops the itching and they don’t like the Tea tree either and it’s an excellent after-sun. Bee Venom Masks are the very best to stop sunburn or bites itching or sores. Oh yes, and it makes you look so young.

10 Best Tips was bought to you by Deborah Mitchell founder of Heaven Skincare. All products mentioned can be bought at the Salon in Shifnal or online at: shop.heavenskincare.com

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B o o s h T O X ® T h e t r u s t e d c h o i c e fo r Ae s t h e t i c s The facial aesthetics industry is booming and, as more and more people choose non-surgical treatments over invasive alternatives, the marketplace has become flooded with a worrying number of unqualified practitioners. It’s a problem that Dr Andrew Booshan MB ChB DRCOG MRCGP DPDerm - Cosmetic Doctor and Clinical Director, founder of BooshTOX®, knows all too well. Working from his fully equipped clinic, that’s located just outside of Wolverhampton at Pendeford Business Park - which has been authorised with full planning permission from Wolverhampton City Council – Dr Booshan uses his medical and surgical training, in combination with his in-depth knowledge of facial aesthetics, to deliver the very best results for his clients, whether they are keen to turn-back-the-clock on the tell-tale signs of ageing or enhance their features with carefully placed dermal fillers. Frequently tasked with correcting the mistakes made by those carrying out treatments without the essential skills, qualifications or experience required, Dr Booshan has earned an excellent reputation in the industry and has clients that travel to his clinic from all over the country. Treating women – and men – of all ages, Dr Booshan offers carefully selected treatments which serve to address allmanner of cosmetic concerns. There are antiwrinkle injectables, lip enhancement dermal fillers, dark 102

eye circle treatment, non-surgical rhinoplasty and cheek lift and midface volumisation as well as the recent addition of the HIFU (High Intensity Focussed Ultrasound) machine which stimulates collagen regeneration in the deep tissues of the face and neck. As a result, clients enjoy no-needle, no-downtime facelifts, chin lifts, eyelifts, browlifts and neck lifts. Using their Venus Velocity Laser hair removal machine, BooshTOX® also offer male and female

clients safe, fast, comfortable and lasting hair removal - for all skin types -, which is performed by a female member of staff. Client satisfaction is the number one priority for Dr Booshan and everything at the clinic has been designed with the patient in mind. There is ample dedicated parking as well as ground floor disabled access and, BooshTOX’s spacious and comfortable treatment rooms put even the most nervous client at ease. wolverhampton west magazine

Here, Dr Booshan answers our questions: How did you get into Aesthetic Medicine? My medical career began after I left Kidderminster in 1996 and went to study medicine at the University of Birmingham. I did several hospital jobs and went on to qualify as a GP before working at a large practice in Penn for 12 years. I became interested in Dermatology and Skin Surgery around 10 years ago and did further training at Cardiff University. From Dermatology, I developed an interest in Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetics, doing specific training in these in London.

with full aftercare and for little more than the unscrupulous practitioners out there. We also usually need to remind anyone enquiring by phone or online that an assessment consultation is the first step. Our consultations are FREE and we make sure there is no obligation or pressure to go ahead with a treatment until it has been given plenty of thought. We do have offers available on our treatments and we always make sure loyalty is rewarded. In short, cost is important but it shouldn’t be the main factor when considering cosmetic treatments.

I have always enjoyed the practical aspect of my career and doing comfortable and effective rejuvenation procedures with zero downtime has become my art.

We see some in our field giving away treatments as prizes, basically in exchange for social media following and likes - this is illegal and ultimately makes it easier for the public to spot irresponsible providers.

Why choose a medical professional to carryout Dermal Filler and Toxin treatments?

Do the results look plastic or fake? Will people be able to tell I’ve had a treatment?

Filler and Toxin treatments are a medical treatment, not just any other beauty treatment. Unfortunately, the last few years have seen a proliferation of unqualified individuals performing these treatments. At BooshTOX®, we are regularly correcting poorly administered fillers and hear of the distress caused. I still find it unbelievable that so many people have been willing to have treatments done in unsuitable environments like the practitioner’s kitchen or their own lounge. Clinical treatments deserve a properly equipped and managed clinical environment, keeping infection risks low and being prepared for any unforeseen complications or emergencies.

Can you match those offering cheap fillers? I regularly get asked this by potential clients shopping around for the cheapest deal. I usually answer this one by pointing out that our treatments are doctor-administered and in a dedicated clinic. We do not aim to be the cheapest but offer safe, high quality treatments

Look amazing without looking ‘done’ - this has been my key message and guiding principle for years. Clients I treat are mainly

looking for discreet improvements and natural looking results. I always keep in mind that my reputation is what is worn on the face of every person I treat. For older clients, a natural, refreshed look and looking good for one’s age is my aim. The non-surgical treatments I perform such as anti-wrinkle injections are zero downtime, meaning that usual activities can be resumed straight away or full physical activity after just a few days for more extensive filler work. Bruising is uncommon and makeup can be worn after as little as 12 hours post-treatment.

What happens after treatment? Whichever treatment we provide, we ensure that there is full understanding of the simple steps needed to recover smoothly. We provide printed materials to assist with this and our friendly aftercare number is staffed 24/7. All clients are offered a review appointment to ensure they are delighted with the results, usually taking place 2 weeks after treatment and at no additional cost.

When you choose BooshTOX® you can rest assured that you’re in safe hands. So, why not sit back, relax and let Dr Booshan make those subtle changes that’ll transform the way you look – and feel – today? BooshTOX® Aesthetics & Laser Clinic, 7 Sidestrand, Pendeford Business Park, Wolverhampton, WV9 5HD Easy access from Wolverhampton (5 mins) and the M54 - Junction 2

24/7 Direct Online Booking is available via

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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Cover Wolverhampton and all surrounding areas

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WOLVERHAMPTON HOSPITAL

If you are feeling a little embarassed about blemishes or unsightly veins around your legs, there is a fast and effective solution available to you at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital. Varicose veins are mostly harmless and pose no serious health risk. If you are seeking treatment for purely cosmetic reasons, this will not be available to you on the NHS. It is only available to you as a private patient paying for yourself. There are a number of surgical, and non-surgical procedures to choose from, and treatment is performed in just a couple of hours as an outpatient. Call us for more information or to make an appointment.

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01902 275 856

nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/wolverhampton

@WolvesNuffield

Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital

Wolverhampton Nuffield Hospital, Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 8LE

wolverhampton west magazine

LEGS FIT FOR SUMMER

Rapid Relief from Varicose Veins Choosing private treatment with a consultant vascular surgeon at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton hospital, means that you can have your varicose veins sorted out in one visit and will be back on your feet in time for the summer weather! The newest minimally invasive treatment option for visible varicose veins enables people to have their veins treated with much greater comfort and less bruising. The VenaSeal Closure system is a new sealing system using medical grade superglue, involving many fewer injections and is relatively pain free. Varicose veins are caused by a malfunction of valves in the veins. When the valves fail, blood flows backwards and pools in the veins causing a bulging appearance. Both men and women with varicose, or spider veins, often experience cramping or aching in the legs. Sadly for patients, the NHS no longer offers treatment for the majority of patients. When the vein valves weaken, pooled blood can cause painful and unsightly bulges at the skin’s surface. Symptoms include aching and itching, swelling and restless legs at night and the sensation of throbbing over the vein. If left untreated, this can lead to bleeding, eczema, phlebitis and potentially leg ulcers, which take a long time to heal. The National Institute for Health & Care Excellence (NICE) advises minimally invasive surgery under local anaesthetic, where patients can walk in and walk out within a couple of hours and quickly return to driving and normal activities. There are a number of surgical treatments to remove problem veins which will put an end to

Minimallly invasive treatment with VenaSeal is quick, effective and comfortable

Mr Andy Garnham, Consultant vascular surgeon

vein pain symptoms. Depending on the type of procedure, it can be performed under a local anaesthetic and usually takes around one hour per leg. Over a year ago, the private facility in Tettenhall was the first hospital in the group of 31 Nuffield Health hospitals to offer the advanced VenaSeal treatment, which uses medical adhesive to safely close diseased veins on a walk in/walk out basis. Mr Andy Garnham says: “Many people don’t realise they have varicose veins. If you have large veins just under the surface of your skin; mild swelling or itching of your ankles or feet; achy, heavy or throbbing legs, it is advisable to seek a medical examination. A special scan of your veins will help diagnose the condition. At Nuffield Health we are delighted to be able to add the new minimally invasive technique to our other

Mr Simon Hobbs, Consultant vascular surgeon

veins procedures, allowing us to provide a bespoke service for each individual patient. ” Mr Simon Hobbs at the Wolverhampton private hospital adds: “Minimally invasive techniques are far better than those used a generation ago where damaged veins were stripped out surgically. Nowadays we use radio frequency or endovenous laser ablation, where the damaged vein segment is closed off with radio waves or laser energy. More recently we can now offer the newest treatment option which uses medical adhesive to seal the impaired vein. ”

For more information or to book for our free information evening event with vascular surgeon Mr Hobbs on Wednesday 14th August, see www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/wolverhampton or ring 01902 275867. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Keep cool,

By Helen Taylor

look hot Model wears Dorothy Perkins. See in store or online for prices.

The sun’s shining and the temperature is finally heating up, so it’s time to find your summer look. his season’s styles can be T easily dressed-up or down depending on the occasion, all you need to do is swap flats for heels and you’re ready to go. And, by investing in just a few key on-trend pieces you’ll be able to update your current wardrobe and enjoy looking stylish all summer long.

Model wears Dorothy Perkins. See in store or online for prices.

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Lime Pleated Midi Skirt £42. Oasis Blush Broderie Dress £60. Oasis Blue Floral Dress £45. Wallis

White Top £15.99. New Look

Zebra Print Dress £45. Next Black and White Floral Dress £50. Wallis

‘Carla’ Sandal £89. Hobbs

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White Handbag - see in store or online for prices. Next

Wedge Espadrilles £38. Oasis 109

3D Lipo at Olivia’s A powerful three-dimensional alternative to liposuction Had enough of love handles? Bored of bingo-wings? Fedup with that muffin top that just won’t seem to budge? Then you’ll be pleased to know that there’s an easy way to beat the bulge at Warstonesbased beauty salon, Olivias. 3D Lipo offers a non-invasive, pain-free alternative to traditional Liposuction and it can help you to tackle those troublesome areas once-and-for-all. The powerful 3D treatment can be used to treat all sorts of body concerns in the following ways:

3D Lipo Fat Freezing This is the perfect option for treating those soft squeezable pockets of fat on one area of your body. The treatment works by freezing and destroying fat cells, resulting in a slimmer and more sculpted figure. It’s a one-off treatment and it’s completely painless.

3D Lipo Cavitation If you’ve got a special occasion on the horizon or just want to drop a dress size fast, then this treatment is the ideal choice for you. Targeting the weekly treatment on those inches of fat you’ve been trying to get rid of, 3D Lipo Cavitation can help you to drop a dress size in just a matter of weeks.

3D Skin Tightening

Working to tighten loose and sagging skin on areas including your stomach, inner thighs and upper arms, the relaxing 3D Skin Tightening treatment uses heat to boost collagen for smoother, firmer skin.

3D Cellulite Reduction Reducing the unsightly appearance of cellulite is easy with a 3D Cellulite Reduction treatment. The process is simple, pain-free and effective, so why put up with cellulite a moment longer? To discuss which treatment is suitable for you, simply book a consultation at the salon today. A 30 minute consultation costs £25 and is redeemable against any course of 3D Lipo treatment.

Get Summer-Ready at the Salon It’s the perfect time of year to treat yourself to those beauty treatments that’ll make you look and feel amazing this summer, and, at Olivia’s you’ll find them all. Whether it’s simply a Xen-Tan spray tan, a gel manicure and pedicure or 110

maybe a specialist Bee Venom facial or microdermabrasion treatment, you can trust the team at Olivia’s to bring you the very best results. Salon owner, Fiona Brooks, is always keen to bring her clients the latest cutting-edge treatments and that’s why Olivia’s list of beauty treatments has grown over the 6 years the salon has been in business. As Fiona explains: “In addition to all of the usual beauty treatments that you’d expect, we’re proud to be able to offer plenty of non-surgical solutions too using 3D Lipo and our Lipolis7 machine.” And, for those planning their wedding day or with a prom just around the corner, Olivia’s Bridal and Prom packages will ensure that you look fabulous. “Our packages are the perfect choice, whatever the special occasion,” adds Fiona. It’s easy to look amazing with a little help from Olivia’s. Contact the salon today on 01902 335355. wolverhampton west magazine

We can put together a personal program that will get you a...

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ADVERTORIAL

THIS FAT H E R ’ S DAY

Whether it’s a Father, Brother, or a loved one. We all know they occasionally borrow your skincare!

moisturiser? Upgrade his current moisturiser to the M4M Anti-ageing Moisturiser.

So this Father’s day give them their very own Heaven Mens!

Send him a ‘man box’ with all his favourite things. For instance, his favourite coffee, tea bags, foods or even shaving cream (Close Shave Cream).

Arrange a spa day. Even though they don’t suggest it doesn’t mean they don’t want it. Dads need a day of indulgence too. A membership to his favourite golf club. Possibly even gifting him a set of personalised golf balls or a new set of clubs? Then throw in some personalised gloves along with our Vanilla Pod Hand Cream. Golf can be tough on the hands! Introduce him to a new regime. We have a range of heavenly men’s grooming products which is a must for every man. Upgrade him. Does your Dad really have the best

Show him you care. Is he always on a plane with work? Put together a little kit which makes him trip a little easier – he will also think of no matter where in the world he goes. Add in the skincare essentials, Shave Shower Shampoo, SOS Shave Oil, M4M Anti-ageing Moisturiser and the 02 Eye Cream. You could also add in a disposable razor or toothbrush! Most importantly, spend the day with your Dad. Whether you go for a nature hike or down to the local pub, plan a day that’s all about him from day to night. It’s not often we get to spend time with our dad’s – let’s make the day of it. Bought to you by Deborah Mitchell founder of Heaven Skincare. All products mentioned can be bought at the Salon in Shifnal or online at: shop.heavenskincare.com

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Mens advertorial Heaven Fathers Day.indd 1

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12/04/2019 11:46

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Taylor Biddle undertakes a state-of-the-art refurbishment Taylor Biddle Opticians has undergone a stunning refurbishment and extension by an award-winning designer. The stylish, modern space now boasts a large wheelchair accessible lift and facilities as well as double the amount of frames on display, catering for all customer needs from budget through to designer. The stylish displays feature contemporary new collections by Jimmy Choo, Prada, Hugo Boss, Ray Ban as well as great value super stylish William Morris, Cocoa Mint, Esprit and one of the largest selections in the area of the timeless and elegant Silhouette brand including its fabulous rimless range. We have continued to invest in the latest high tech equipment. The Optomap uses scanning laser technology to show the widest field of view of the back of the eye than we have been able to see previously- to further check the health of the eyes. A standard view with retinal camera is just 30 degrees whereas with the Optomap we can now see 200 degrees of the peripheral retina. This compliments the results obtained using 3D OCT scan which shows three-dimensional detailed view of the macula and optic nerve checking for conditions such as macular degeneration and glaucoma.

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wolverhampton west magazine

FULLY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE - NEW CONSULTING ROOMS AND FACILITIES ACCESSIBLE BY LIFT AT COMPTON!

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

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

Caring for the ones you love the most!

wolverhampton west magazine

ANYONE FOR TENNIS?

While Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis and Squash Club is a venue which hosts sports 12 months of the year, this is the time when tennis becomes a very popular pastime.

The annual Wimbledon Championships often leads people to reach for their rackets, and a free taster session in tennis formed a major part of an Open Day taking place at the club on Bank Holiday Monday, May 27th.

WLTSC will once again be hosting the County Championships this summer, which proved a hugely popular and competitive event last year

Part of the LTA’s Nature Valley Big Tennis weekend initiative to encourage more people to take up the sport, visitors were welcomed at the club to play not just tennis but also squash and racketball as well. There was also a taster fitness session which took place in the morning, offering guests the chance to enjoy the opportunity to see the various aspects of life at the club which members can enjoy. For anyone who was unable to attend that open day, please contact the club on (01902) 755265 or email club@wltsc.com to come and take a look at everything available for members. There are many other great activities in the pipeline over the summer for prospective members to enjoy, including

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

the annual summer party, club tennis championships, – which are graded according to ability – Taster Tennis sessions, a Corporate Cup and community challenges such as the Aberdovey Bike Ride for Compton Care. “Whilst we offer a range of different sports and social and community activities throughout the year, we know that tennis becomes very popular during spring and summer,” says WLTSC Operations Manager Marc Hughes. “That is why we organised the Open Day at the end of May, but would also be glad to show anyone else around our facilities to see if they want to take advantage of the warmer weather to improve their health and fitness.”

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

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WOLVERHAMPTON HIP

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

& 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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Summer is on its way and everyone wants their feet looking great! However, some people may have nail conditions that prevent them from wearing open shoes.

nails cracking, allowing them to become more prone to fungus entering the nails and infections occurring. Other factors that can increase the risk of fungal nails developing are:

Nail Fungus is a common condition that begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your toenail and as it goes deeper it may cause your nail to discolour, thicken and crumble on the edge. It may also go on to affect the other nails.

• Having poor blood circulation or diabetes and a weak immune system

The symptoms can be as follows:

• Psoriasis or having minor skin conditions

• Thickened nails

It’s likely that you will see your General Practitioner, but in most cases they will refer you to see a Podiatrist.

• History of athletes foot / sweaty feet • Walking barefoot in damp areas such as swimming pools and gyms

• Yellow-brownish discolouration caused by build-up of debris underneath the nails • Brittle and crumbly • Distorted shape • Sometimes can cause a pungent odour Fungal nails can develop in people of any age but can be more common in older people. When the nails age they can become dry and brittle resulting in the

The team at Foot Therapy specialise in foot conditions and can examine your nails to determine the best course of treatment and this will depend on the severity of your condition. Why not book yourself in and get those feet summer ready!

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

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

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

214022

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

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W a r wic k By Rob Taylor

I couldn’t repress a sly, private chuckle when standing in line at Warwick Castle earlier this year. Beside me stood a group of American tourists, each of whom insisted upon repeatedly mispronouncing the lively market town which sits on the banks of the River Avon as WAR-wick. I know it’s mis-CHEE-vous of me, but it got me thinking on how Americans always rhyme the beginning of the word ‘police’ with ‘toe’ and furthermore about just how many of these mistakes in pronunciation ultimately stick over time. And it’s nothing new or specific to our friends from across the pond: wasp used to be pronounced ‘waps’ and horse, ‘hros’. Such mispronunciations 120

are enormously common: a recent survey found that there are many words under threat from this process of metathesis: ‘ask’ may soon be aks, ‘nuclear’, nucular and ‘prescription’, perscription. Watch any YOOF-orientated TV today and you’ll know exactly what I’m Finking.

museums and St Mary’s church, with its rare medieval ducking stool. The town was founded in 914 AD by Ethelfleda, sister of Edward the Elder, as a defence against the roving Danes. After the Norman conquest of England, William the

Of course all of this bothers only curmudgeonly people on the down-slope of life and takes years to permeate into the system anyway, so, I reasoned, who cares? I instead got on with enjoying my visit to the Scheduled Ancient Monument and Grade 1-listed castle – which dates back to William the Conqueror and boasts landscaped grounds by Capability Brown – and the town it overlooks. Warwick offers visitors not just medieval history but vibrant modern life too: there are extensive parks and gardens to explore and an array of notable buildings to visit which include the Lord Leycester Hospital almshouses, military wolverhampton west magazine

Lord Leycester Hospital

Conqueror established a motteand-bailey castle at Warwick in 1068 to maintain control of the Midlands. The town grew rapidly, but the medieval core remained delightfully compact because expansion of the town was limited by surrounding sites of historical importance, as well as its physical location: grounds of the Priory, St Nicholas Meadow, the River Avon and Warwick Castle pin the town in tightly. With this in mind it’s a minor miracle that any buildings remain at all after the Great Fire of 1694 swept through central streets. St Mary’s had to be rebuilt with a new nave and tower, but the town’s Guildhall, now the Lord Leycester Hospital, as well as a group of timber-framed buildings around Thomas Oken’s House – today a tea room – did survive to feature in TV series like ‘Pride and Prejudice’. Market Place hosts a thriving Saturday market and a variety of shops, restaurants and pubs – and it needs every one of them, because Warwick’s streets are always awash with visitors. Although don’t think there’s a high student presence in the town because even though Warwick University is highly-rated and boasts alumni

as diverse as Sting and Germaine Greer, the university is actually located in Coventry and most students live in Leamington Spa. The town’s obvious aesthetic appeal has drawn in many prominent artists over the years. J M W Turner visited in 1794 and produced some exquisite watercolours. There’s even a suspicion that Caesar’s Tower – Warwick Castle’s tallest tower, which comprises three storeys, excluding the Gaol – may have been the inspiration for his Boccaccio Relating the Tale of the Bird-Cage. John Constable also visited Warwick in 1809. And now to the elephant in the room, the reason for why the aforementioned Americans were beside me that day, Warwick Castle itself. So dominant and so compelling, it dwarfs all other points of interest in the town. Attacked in 1264, besieged in 1642 and damage by fire in 1871, the castle has survived the fickle hand of history to become one of the bestpreserved medieval castles around, with a collection of armoury second only to the Tower of London. Warwick Castle was under the stewardship of the Earls of Warwick until it was given to Sir Fulke Greville by King James I in 1604.

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The Greville family, who owned the property until 1978 (when they sold it to the Tussauds Group for £1.3 million), then converted it into a magnificent country house. The castle has often hosted royalty: Queen Elizabeth I visited in 1566 during a tour of the country, although because at this point the castle’s living quarters were in a state of disrepair, a separate building had to be built for her to stay in. In 1868, Queen Victoria showed up; Elizabeth II paid a visit in 1997 and Diana, Princess of Wales, passed through in 1986. Today the castle is one of the most visited stately homes in the UK, it houses the world’s most powerful catapult - a medieval weapon called the trebuchet, which stands 60ft tall, weighs 22 tonnes and is capable of hurling projectiles a distance of almost 1,000ft – and is home to many impressive birds of prey, including a Steller’s sea eagle and the UK’s only free-flying Andean condor – the world’s largest bird of prey with a wingspan of over 10ft. So I think it’s pretty safe to pronounce that Warwick does indeed rule the roost, just please remember how not to pronounce it. 121

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girls in Upper School involved in choirs, recorder groups and an instrumental ensemble. Recently, the school achieved three first places at Dudley Festival of Music and Drama within each of these groups. In fact, one of the adjudicators commented, “Newbridge is the type of school I would have loved to go to!” Similarly, two of our Upper School girls gained three first places between them in vocal and instrumental classes.

At Newbridge, Music is an integral part of everyday life. It is impossible to walk around our school and not hear some form of music either drifting out of one classroom or another. Learning music has been shown to have a positive impact on children’s academic, social and personal development and it is embedded strongly across the school as part of our ethos and aims: To introduce children to the worlds of music, sport, dance, the arts and leisure activities.

All our girls and boys are drawn into musical activities during their time at school, with specialist music lessons from Reception upwards taken by our Director of Music, Mrs Whiting. Recorder lessons form part of the curriculum from Year Two upwards with children learning musical notation. Our Upper School girls have the option of taking individual music lessons playing the flute, cello or violin. Girls achieve success in examinations with The Associated Board of the Royal School of Music and London College of Music Examinations. It is hard to capture the full extent of the school’s musical life, with

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We also encourage our musically gifted and talented children to spread their wings with children auditioning successfully for the National Prep School Orchestra, the Wolverhampton Youth Concert Orchestra and Birmingham Junior Conservatoire. Recently, the children had two real life experiences in a ‘studio’. Firstly, the children recorded several tracks for a school CD giving first-hand experience of roles such as sound engineering. Additionally, two girls who won an in-school CD design competition were given the opportunity to visit The Studio in Tettenhall, to help turn their hand drawn designs into the final CAD CD cover. We are grateful to The Studio for providing this opportunity.

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Education

and Schooling

by David Williams – Headmaster of Tettenhall College to revise - in favour of a modified timetable at school where teachers are always on hand. This is in addition to the parental and pupil workshops put on by schools and the vast resources available online provided by examination boards and other providers. If this is added to a climate created by an uncertain economy and a competitive job market there is little doubt that there is an increased level of seriousness surrounding examination performance by those taking them in 2019.

Along with many thousands of households in the West Midlands, we are experiencing the looming GCSE examinations as 15 or 16 year olds across the region face the final weeks of revision. Schools now provide a level of support unheard of a decade or so ago, with additional sessions and ‘clinics’ run after school, at weekends and during the holiday (as has been the case with Tettenhall College) and stopping the traditional ‘study leave’ - where pupils were given time at home

It is interesting for me, however, to experience the process as a parent rather than as a French teacher wanting the best for the pupils in his care. There is far more control involved in teaching and preparing a class in Years 10 and 11 as opposed to watching your own child go through the process. Parents can and will of course provide the framework and structures for a healthy and productive working environment that may involve room arrangements, phone and social life restrictions, but attempts to actually ‘do’ the work, impose learning techniques or construct revision timetables with impossible targets can be misguided or counterproductive. As an educationalist,

it has perhaps been harder to ‘let go’ and allow my son to find his own way and methods for success but, although it has not been an easy road, he appears to have actually arrived at a point where he wants to do well, is putting in the work and taking his preparation seriously. Whatever the outcome in August, I cannot now say he has not made the necessary effort. He has had many of the benefits outlined above but, most importantly, it was his decision to work after a mediocre year and that is worth much more than any parental pressure imposed on him to succeed. This will be what ultimately drives him forward if and when he goes to university or has to learn in the workplace: selfmotivation, time management and study methods that work for him. As a parent, I have actually learnt from one of my senior colleagues who advised me that he did little to help his children with their homework if they did not ask and, if they ran into disciplinary issues at school, then so be it. We must not give in to the modern day desire to control everything; less stress and pressure from us will ultimately lead to better learning and performance! Perhaps this will filter into all levels of education where often parents fret from the early stages about what they can do rather than allowing the teachers and school to work to develop the child at his or her pace. My final thoughts go to the pupils sitting GCSEs and A-levels this summer and I hope you follow all the great advice offered and take up all the support on offer and that you achieve what you deserve. Your parents will of course be there to help if needed but will hopefully just let events unfold, rather than doing the examinations for you. You can follow David on @tettcoll_head Twitter

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personalised education

Become a Tettenhall College Sixth Former Scholarships and bursaries available for September 2019 Contact: admissions@tettcoll.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ 01902 751119 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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ST. DOMINIC’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL BREWOOD

has been ranked 33rd nationally by the Sunday Times School Guide 2019 This is the second year the School has been included in the top 35 schools nationally. This guide identifies the 2,000 highest-achieving schools in the UK, ranked by their recent examination results. The School’s academic success continues with recently released Performance Tables from the Government highlighting a strong performance for the grammar school. This includes a first place ranking for progressive score at A-Level within the nearest independent schools. These figures are also known as ‘value added’ scores and show the progress students who studied A-Levels, have made between the end of key stage 4 and the end of their A-Level studies. St Dominic’s has also been ranked second for the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) score.

Headmaster, Peter McNabb says, ‘with our small class sizes and bespoke teaching, it is evident our children excel academically and we are immensely proud of their achievements. We also pride ourselves in expanding our student’s minds not only in class, but with a variety of exciting excursions and experiences. We encourage all of our pupils to actively get involved with all aspects of school life – we have something for everyone!’ St. Dominic’s offers a wealth of opportunities and enrichment activities for its pupils to partake in. Currently, the School is offering a once in a lifetime visit to Florida and the NASA space station as part of their STEM education programme. The children will cover marine and ocean sciences, ecology and

space science. Pupils also have the opportunity for an expedition travelling to Belize, as part of the World Challenge Programme. This encourages students to develop life skills and build confidence and resilience. Students are also able to participate in a Spanish exchange with an established partner School, visit France and attend a ski trip to Italy. To ensure St. Dominic’s remains as inclusive and accessible as possible, a new fee structure is in place for September 2019 entry. Key entry points into the School will have a reduced fee. Year 7 will cost an annual starting fee of only £7500, and Year 12 at £7,750. The Reception class will stand respectively at £5000 annually. For those considering 2020 entry, early registration is advisable.

To find out exactly what makes St Dominic’s one of the leading independent schools in Staffordshire, book a private tour now with the Headmaster. View our outstanding school facilities and meet our experienced teaching staff by contacting our Admissions Secretary via phone on (01902) 850428 or email: secretary@stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk

For more information on the school please visit their website www.stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk or call 01902 850248. 126

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ST. DOMINICâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GRAMMAR SCHOOL

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2019

GIRLS AND BOyS 4 - 18

33rd

Introducing a Love of Learning

Reduced Fees for entry into Reception,Years 7 & 12 for September 2019 Book a private tour of the School to find out more www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk T: 01902 850248 E: secretary@stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk 127

Why choose

Wolverhampton Grammar School All children in Years 7, 8 and 9 have a School iPad with a stylus Apple Pencil to set the standard for drawing, note-taking and marking up documents. Art lessons foster skills and creativity in a variety of media, from traditional techniques such as oil painting, to chemical photography, animation and film-making, all based on a strong foundation of observational drawing.

Life outside the classroom

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

students speak for themselves. All teachers are experts in their own academic disciplines, trained and experienced professionals who love their subjects as much as they enjoy teaching students. Small class sizes and space for individual tuition enables the teachers to get to know each and every child.

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

The school offers over 100 extracurricular clubs – the largest range available from any school in the area. Everything from Political Forums, Technology Clubs, Debating, Warhammer to Climbing, Cooking and Art Lectures. From the very best nutritionally balanced food prepared by awardwinning chefs to the latest science laboratories, sports centre and design studio - your child will have access to the very best facilities.

Interested to learn more? Visit the school’s website www. wgs.org.uk for details of open events including a Secondary School Discovery Day for Year 5 children on Saturday 11th May and a whole School Open Evening on Thursday 27th June, 6-8pm which is the perfect opportunity to learn more about joining Wolverhampton Grammar School.

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

Academic excellence You should expect nothing less than access to the very best inspirational teaching from the top independent school in Wolverhampton. The academic achievements of the 128

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

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

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

Places still available for September 2019 entry

School

Open evening Thursday 27th June 2019, 6-8pm

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

For more information about the open evening or joining our School, please contact Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar. T: 01902 422939 E: jam@wgs-sch.net or register online www.wgs.org.uk

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TES Independent School Award Winners 2018 129

No-fault divorce laws

welcomed by leading law firm

When Angelina Jolie split from Brad Pitt after two years of marriage, she chose to divorce on the ‘no fault’ grounds of irreconcilable differences – an option not open to UK couples until now. The Government has said it will introduce new no-fault divorce laws as soon as possible to end the ‘blame game’ surrounding the breakdown of many marriages. Award-winning Midlands law firm FBC Manby Bowdler has welcomed the planned overhaul of divorce laws to help couples split with less conflict. Kate Rowley, a solicitor with the family law team, said the firm had long campaigned for the changes, which will make ending a marriage quicker and less confrontational. Currently, one spouse must allege adultery or unreasonable behaviour

Kate Rowley

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by the other or else wait two years to start divorce proceedings. Until divorce proceedings are begun, financial issues cannot be resolved with any finality so often people have no choice but to get started immediately. Under the new laws being proposed by the Government the spouse will have only to say that the marriage has broken down irretrievably. The changes will also stop one partner refusing a divorce if the other one wants one, although defended divorce is very rare. Kate said: “These new laws should make it easier for people to work together at the end of a marriage. The reality is that in most cases there is fault on both sides and starting a divorce by assigning blame is unhelpful. A ‘no-fault’ system will help people to look forward rather than backwards at what went wrong. It will be much better for parents who need to focus on working together to care for their children at a difficult time. “We are delighted to see the Government finally taking action after lengthy campaigning by

many family lawyers. In the meantime, within the existing system we will continue to do all we can to resolve disputes for our clients pragmatically and to avoid conflict as far as is possible. The move follows a high-profile case in which the Supreme Court rejected a woman’s appeal for divorce after her husband refused to agree to the move – meaning the couple must stay married until next year. Tini Owens, 68, from Worcestershire, wanted to divorce her husband of 40 years on the grounds she was unhappy. Her husband Hugh has refused the split and the Supreme Court unanimously rejected the appeal, meaning she must remain married until 2020. Justice secretary David Gauke says the new law will be introduced as soon as possible, “when parliamentary time allows”. Kate can be contacted on 01952 211323 or by email k.rowley@fbcmb.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine

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Bantock User Group Funds raised by the Friends of Bantock House Museum and Park enabled them to re-plant 4 beds within the Rose Garden. Volunteer BUGs carry out monthly routine gardening and litter-picks and on occasions undertake, with the co-operation of the Council, more specialised tasks such as this. In recent years they have been involved in reinstating

hedgerows and developing the wildflower meadows. In February of this year help was given to the Rangers in clearing part of the wildlife pond. If you have a love of the park, a few spare hours a month and would like to join them in these activities which add so much to this popular venue, they would love to hear from you. Please call: Val 01902 342715 or Roger 01902 341930 for more details

Members of the BUG team planting roses in early March.

The Friends of Bantock House Museum and Park work with the Council to ensure Bantock continues to be attractive to all visitors. Funds are used to purchase plants, additional benches and items for the Park and fixtures and fittings for the House. Members receive newsletters informing them of expenditure and plans, and are invited to join them in vital fund-raising at organised events within the Park. Annual subscriptions are £10 individual or £15 for a household. If you would like become a member and support them in their aims: Tel: FoB Secretary 01902 331272 or email: bantockfriends@virginmedia.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Registered Charity No 1065808

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A new perspective

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Whatever you’ve got in mind, let the professionals at iSky provide you with a brand new perspective. 132

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

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

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Photography for all occasions

Newborn Family

Events Commercial

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Photographs courtesy of Designer Photography

Social Scene

Park Hall Hotel Wolverhampton

On Saturday 23rd March 500 people attended the Ramada Park Hall Hotel in Wolverhampton to the SOLD OUT 40th year celebration charity ball for Cruse Bereavement Care Wolverhampton and Dudley Area. Wolverhampton’s own SOUL QUEEN Beverley Knight topped the bill alongside local band Project 21 and gave everyone a night to remember. Over £35000 was raised on the night and this will go a long way to support a wonderful local charity.

Sponsored by

Beverley Knight said “My mum Deloris is a volunteer with the Wolverhampton and Dudley Area of Cruse Bereavement Care. I have therefore heard first hand of the great work that Cruse do in counselling people through their most difficult period

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of their lives. I wanted to lend my support in the best way I know, and that is to entertain the wonderful people good enough to lend their time and money to this beautiful event.” 1. Mo Camara, Tina Mills, Mark Tetsell, Amanda Tetsell 2. Angela Bir, Deloris Smith 3. Rachel Lockett, Mildred Weir, Sylvia McCarthy, Deloris Smith, Mark Lynch, Earl Lynch 4. Laura Horton, Mildred Weir, Paul Horton, Claire Horton 5. Saui Lamba , Pooya Lamba, Monica Sharma, Bushan Sharma 6. Rachel Lockett, Beverley Knight MBE, Deloris Smith 7. Georgia Burgess, Beverley Knight MBE, Sophie Clayton 8. Joanne Bridgwood Table 9. Georgia Burgess, Nick Malenko, Royston Blythe, James O’Keefe, Sylvia McCarthy, Beverley Knight MBE, The Mayor of Wolverhampton Councillor Phil Page, Deloris Smith, Mildred Weir, The Mayoress of Wolverhampton Mrs Elaine Hadley-Howell, The Mayor of Dudley Councillor Alan Taylor, The Mayoress of Dudley Mrs Winifred Taylor, Sophie Clayton 10. James O’Keefe, DJ Munro, Beverley Knight MBE, Kara Smith 11. Royston Blythe Table wolverhampton west magazine

Social Scene

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Photographs courtesy of Andrews Creative

Social Scene

Porsche Centre Wolverhampton On Monday 25 March 2019, Porsche Centre Wolverhampton were delighted to welcome over 270 guests to their 911 preview event. Jodi Macdonald, Centre Principal and Jonathan Mannell, Manager of Ownership Services Porsche GB presented the new 911 Carrera S and 911 Carrera 4S models. Guests enjoyed a live music performance with drinks and canapés served throughout the night. They were also treated to a stunning display of the classic 1983 Porsche 911 Cabriolet and the extremely rare Porsche ‘Master’Tractor which had literally arrived in the UK from Germany on the morning of our preview event.

5 1. Jodi Macdonald (Centre Principal at Porsche Centre Wolverhampton), Richard Attwood 2. Jonathan Mannell (Manager of Ownership Services Porsche GB) 3. Lynda Dorricott, Shaun Dorricott, Neil Willetts 4. Sarah Radford, Neil Radford 5. Suk Singh, Dave Hulme 6. Ben Robinson (New Car Sales Manager), Nicky Manton 7. Dave Hulme, Alan Bradshaw, Louise Bradshaw, Lex Shinton, Emily Wray 8. Paul Blackburn, Paul Bennett, Matt Bennett 9. Sophie Taylor, Paul Platt, Jasmine Duell, Gareth Lawton 10. Andeep Singh, Raj Kaur 11. Barbara Davies, John Davies

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12. Gloria Dale, Michael Lewis-Wright

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13. David Powell, Richard Powell 14. Dave Carter, Gary Carter 15. Simon Bailey, Richard Attwood wolverhampton west magazine

Social Scene

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

The Boardroom Molineux Stadium

A surprise early retirement party was organised by Three Pines MD Alan Bradshaw and staff, to give his wife Louise a send-off to remember after working for the family business for 25 years. Family, friends and work colleagues gathered early for the evening to surprise Louise with loud cheers as she entered the venue.

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A fabulous 5 Course Gourmet Menu was served followed by live entertainment from 80’s band – Project 80’s and music from the resident DJ ensured everyone enjoyed the party mood.

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

1. P aul Nicholls, Rik – The Painter, Jen – The Painters wife 2. Sioux Jones, Gary Jones 3. L aura Kershaw, Russell Kershaw, Robert Moore, Clare Moore 4. Chris Jukes, Sian Haughton, Lisa Turner 5. Dave Capewell, Sue Capewell, Wally Nugent 6. Lisa Turner, Pam Wootton, Sue Nugent, Sue Capewell 7. Gill Perry, John Perry 8. Laura Kershaw, Louise Bradshaw, Alan Bradshaw, Clare Moore 9. Sue Smith, Tony Smith 10. Donna Mitchell, Lee Mitchell 11. Lex Shinton, David Hulme 12. Geoff Hall, Gisella Wiley, Fidel Ebanks, Alison Ebanks 13. Tric Gooding, Nigel Gooding 14. Rachael Piotrowicz, Gemma Pithers wolverhampton west magazine

Social Scene

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

The Mount Hotel

Tettenhall

Sponsored by

The Haven’s annual ball at The Mount Hotel was once again a great success; this year with a Peaky Blinders theme. 110 Guests donned their flapper dresses and flat caps and helped to raise over £4,000 for the Wolverhampton charity that support women and children in the city from domestic abuse and homelessness.

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

Guests were entertained throughout the event with a magician, a psychic reader, live 1920’s style singer and themed games. The night also included a 3-course meal, disco and auction. 1. Shaun Guest, Christine Hinson, Christopher Harris, Nicola Secker, Robert Secker 2. Christopher Harris, Terry Pyper 3. Yvonne Pyper, Carol Harris, Julie Harris 4. Gail Nightingale, Steph Harris, Keshia Harper, Jem Gnnell 5. Debbie Lambert, Jason Lambert 6. Matthew Rolls Kerrey Rolls 7. Paula Pearson, Tony Pearson, Stuart Harris, Carol Harris 8. Jade Secker, Lucy Owen, Hayley Powel (The Haven) wolverhampton west magazine

Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

South Staffs Golf Club Tettenhall When Club Captain’s Jerry Duffy and Denny Aston were coming towards the end of their Captaincy year they decided to celebrate in style and go out with a bang by having a night to remember with a sumptuous dinner and entertainment from “a night with Abba”. The evening proved a great success and was thoroughly enjoyed by all. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

1. Pam Jones, Richard Hilton 2. Sarah McCarthy, John McCarthy, Eddie Charlton, Ann Charlton, Peter Brookes, Diane Taylor 3. Barbara Lewis, Megan Hughes, Helen Pursehouse, Pat Wood, Sandy Mclean 4. Ron Wallbank, Mary Wallbank, Sue Porter, Dave Thomas (Club President), Glyn Harvey, Sue Evans 5. Kate Banerjee, Craig Holmes, Judy Parr 6. Jerry Duffy (Captain), Laura Duffy 7. Keith Aston, Denny Aston (Ladies Captain) 8. Stuart Loader, Jenny Loader 141

Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

Bradmore Social Club

Wolverhampton

More than 100 Guests attended to celebrate Debbie Guestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 50th Birthday in a Great Gatsby themed party.

Sponsored by

Filled with tuxedos, feathers and champagne the Bradmore Social club presented a night of excitement by DCB Entertainments.

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

Family and friends travelled across the country and even overseas to attend the evening which was ended with a firework display by Jubilee Fireworks. 1. Laura Guest, Sophie Guest, Debbie Guest, Richard Guest, Marie Mullen, Josh Price, Jean Price, Aisling Mullen, Bernard Mullen, Boo Price, Molly Price, Frank Farrell, David Rogan 2. Frank Farrell, Robert Reade 3. Shell Stevens, Paul Stevens 4. Manish Patel, Saijal Patel 5. Kelly Kingham, Michael Herbert, Laura Guest, Amanda Herbert, Diana Windsor, Tom Herbert 6. Tric Gooding, Sophie Guest 7. Ann Guest, David Guest 8. Michelle Harvie, Laura Woodward wolverhampton west magazine

Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

WLTSC Newbridge It was a night for Super Heroes at Wolverhampton Lawn, Tennis and Squash Club at a celebration of a Magnificent Seven years of the System Energize team. DJ Stuart Ojelay was on the decks as members in fancy dress danced the night away. “Foggy, Bren, Billy and Adam are an exceptional team of fitness experts specialising in Personal Training,” said Operations Manager Marc Hughes. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

8 “They make the gym and classes so welcoming and are always on hand to help members stay healthy and train safely.” 1. Jason Mansell, Sally Mansell 2. Jon Deeley, Ros Deeley, Flora Deeley, Phoebe Deeley, Beth Maskew 3. Andy Reddish, Meike Claassen 4. Karen Fletcher, Mark Fletcher 5. Sarah Houghton, Jo Fahy, Sue Towler, Lynette Guest 6. Chris Pennick, Sarah Pennick 7. Paula Hughes, Ros Deeley, Marc Hughes, Billy Hughes 8. Jack Parr, Judy Parr, Nick Parr 143

Dan Walker, BBC Sport Presenter, Ian Bonser, (Centre) and Adam Sills, Head of Sport at The Telegraph

Golf Pioneer Wins Lifetime Service Award Ian Bonser, who has helped countless people follow their golfing dreams, was honoured in March 2019 with England Golf’s Lifetime Service Award, sponsored by The Telegraph.

Ian, the owner of the 3 Hammers Golf Complex in Staffordshire and a committed volunteer in the game, was recognised at the England Golf Awards, sponsored by Adidas Golf, at the Royal Lancaster London.

He received a special message from Dame Laura Davies who told him: “Congratulations Ian on an amazing achievement. What you have done for golf and all the time you have put in means this award is thoroughly deserved.” Hundreds of guests from across the sport applauded his contribution to golf over the last 32 years – which he insists is by no means over. England Golf Chief Executive Nick Pink said: “Ian is a pioneer. He is passionate about golf and has made an incredible impact at a local and national level, and we are delighted to present him with our Lifetime Service Award.” Ian, a five-handicapper, learned his own golf as an 11-year-old at 3 Hammers. By the time he was 25 he owned the centre and had embarked on his plan to create “a place where young people and adults can pursue their dreams, aspirations and goals in a fun, accessible and affordable environment.” For over 32 years his ambition has touched countless people. Each year, over 200,000 people

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visit the centre. In the last four years 30,000 adults and 10,000 juniors have had lessons at 3 Hammers. Thousands of pupils from over 12 local schools have been introduced to the sport. 3 Hammers has won awards, has started European Tour players on their journey, and has supplied local golf clubs with a steady stream of keen, new members. But, as well as investing over £1m to create a state of the art centre, Ian has also freely given his own time to help grow the game. He acts as a consultant to

several local golf clubs, helping develop memberships and secure a brighter future for golf. He had also advised the UK Golf Club Owners Association, the government and the Treasury on issues facing the industry. And he’s always looking for ways to reach out to the community. So, on 14th of June this year, 3 Hammers with the support of Lancaster Jaguar Land Rover, will fund prostate cancer screening for up to 1000 local men. The simple 3 minute blood tests will be conducted at the Complex in a bid to raise Photo courtesy of Today’s Golfer

awareness of prostate cancer screening and its importance. Ian commented: “I am so incredibly proud that England Golf has recognised all we have done by honouring us with this award. This is a fabulous honour for me personally, but also for everyone that has worked at 3 Hammers over the years. I have been very fortunate to have worked with some great people, but none more so than the incredible team I have today. So a big thank you to them all because I could not have done it without them.” 3 Hammers Golf Complex Old Stafford Road, Coven, Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, WV10 7PP Golf Reception 01902 790428 info@3hammers.co.uk

™

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South Staffordshire Golf Club

A challenging parkland course parties, christenings and wakes. Winter weddings are available from 1st November until the end of March 2020, we aim to make planning your wedding as simple and stylish as possible with our all-inclusive wedding reception package” adds Sue Lebeau. Membership applications are welcomed from all, whether novice, beginner, improver or experienced golfer. There are several membership categories currently available including, Full 7-day membership; Flexible membership, Junior Membership, Corporate membership and Country membership (must live outside of a 20-mile radius).

Founded in 1892, South Staffordshire Golf Club has long been regarded as one of the finest courses in the West Midlands. Located just outside of the picturesque village of Tettenhall, in Danescourt Road, the club is set in 160 acres and boasts a 6512-yard par 71 course that was designed in 1908 by Harry Vardon, one of the greatest players and most influential figures in the early history of the sport.

“We also have a well-stocked Golf Pro Shop and Clubhouse that’s complete with a lounge bar, spike bar and terrace, television lounge and restaurant – all of which offer splendid views in a warm and friendly environment.” “The club is available for hire for all private functions, celebration

And non-members can also enjoy Sunday Lunch and Afternoon Tea when making a booking for a small party. So, if you are considering joining a new golf club this year or you’re celebrating a special occasion contact Sue, she will be happy to hear from you.

Over the years the course has been ‘tweaked’ by other golfing greats, including Harry Colt, James Braid and most recently, Donald Steel. As Sue LeBeau, Club Manager, explains: “The course is maintained to the highest standards and offers a series of interesting and challenging holes, including no fewer than six par four holes of over 400 yards from the Medal Tees, contributing to a par 71 and demanding a mixture of skill and imagination to play them well.” It’s not just skilled golfers that can enjoy the club though, there’s also the Peter Baker Golf Academy that offers lessons to those looking to improve their swing in the indoor swing clinic or at the 10-acre driving range and practice area. 146

New membership categories now available for Juniors and Beginners / Novice Golfers (male & female). Beginners / Novice Golfers 12-month Academy Membership, including a set of golf clubs with bag, golf lessons (5, 30-minute lessons), 2000 range balls and £50 credit for use in the clubhouse. Costing just £500, this is exceptional value. Juniors Membership for juniors up to 18 years old, includes all of the above (except £50 credit). The cost is £300 and represents excellent value for any youngster who is looking to take up the game.

wolverhampton west magazine

COUNTRY MEMBERSHIP

FLEXIBLE MEMBERSHIP

FULL 7 DAY MEMBERSHIP

20 miles+ away Unlimited golf

Local and only play occasionally?

Full Playing Membership

Voucher based membership:

(entrance fee applicable for adults over 21)

10 x 18 holes 10 x 9 holes

All the above membership categories are subject to affiliation fees

GOLF LESSONS AVAILABLE

at the Peter Baker Golf Academy Winter Weddings available from November 2019 to March 2020 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

www.southstaffordshiregolfclub.co.uk Tel: 01902 751065

@SouthStaffsgc

/SouthStaffsGolfClub

Thewww.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk South Staffordshire Golf Club, Danescourt Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9BQ 147

GROWiNG

ThE GaME OF GoLF

By Rob Taylor

Speed and simplicity is everything in the modern world – especially for young people and, as ever, they don’t want to be caught dead doing what their parents once did. Youngsters may have at first been introduced to golf through mum and dad, but soon after they’d much rather be swinging with their friends – and doing so at a speed which only they are accustomed to. And, traditionally, this has always been a problem for the ancient game. Traditionally golf is played at a glacial pace; it is steeped in tradition and comes with a rule book that reads like a particularly dense legal volume. However, this isn’t true any longer. For many years the sport has been evolving in order to better cater for a wider demographic mix and to all socioeconomic backgrounds. It is no longer an elitist environment and is more inclusive than it has ever been, but still the governing bodies of this ancient game understand the need for further change. Recently the sport has relaxed certain rules to make golf simpler, faster and more enjoyable to play. Ideas such as eliminating any penalty if a ball moves on the green while the player has done nothing more than take normal actions to prepare for a stroke; reducing the time from 5 minutes to 3 minutes to search for a lost ball; and being allowed to remove items such as leaves and twigs

in a bunker that are around the ball have found favour with most players. All of which are good signs that adjustments are being made – but some say the sport still isn’t moving quickly enough. With every new generation, children are weaned from an increasingly early age on super-quick technology. They want Apps, Android and Apple. Teenagers today haven’t known a life without incessant, allconsuming technology in their personal lives. It has been their existence, in many cases, for their whole lives. 95% of UK teens have a smartphone; 45% of

The tree lined 9th hole at 3 Hammers Golf Complex

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teens admit to being online on a near-constant basis. They’ve taken to it like cookies to a PC, whereas parents can still remember struggling to program a VCR. But should golf speed up to catch-up?

individuals, their motivations and the barriers they encounter. Traditional membership drop off doesn’t mean they don’t want to be part of a club, but it does mean they don’t like what clubs are offering them.”

A new guide has been produced by England Golf, the governing body for amateur golf, to help clubs learn more about young people and how to attract them into the sport. Its research shows that in 2017, 67% of all young people (about 5.35 million) took part in some form of golf activity. Many of them played crazy golf and went to driving ranges, but only 1.65 million have gone on to play more golf. But, at the same time, these players are later turning their backs on golf clubs and traditional junior memberships are dropping.

Emily Furniss, Young Golf ambassador for England Golf and the Golf Foundation, furthers this: “Not everyone wants to be the next Rory McIlroy, some young people just want to belong, to make friends or play for fun. Listening to the opinions of the next generation will broaden the appeal of the game.”

Lee Dolby, England Golf’s Young People Manager, says: “Attracting young people is essential for the future of golf clubs. One size definitely does not fit all. Young people change faster than any of us and what appeals to a six-year-old may not be right for a 16-year-old. “But, many clubs still just offer one version of junior golf. We need to think about the

With so much attention now being placed on the future of the sport there’s never been a better time to see what changes your local club has been making (and in the Wolverhampton area we have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to clubs and courses). It may not yet be ready to let youngsters play loud music on the course or be willing to put a 16-year old on its committee but it will have some great membership offers available and much more. Check out some of our advertisers for inspiration.

18th hole at Oxley Park, a tough long par 4 to finish

New driving range now open at Wergs Golf Club

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

17th Hole at South Staffs can be a card wrecker

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                

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OXLEY PARK GOLF CLUB Golf in the heart of Wolverhampton

There is a friendly atmosphere in the clubhouse with a great choice of food and drink at reasonable prices. Award winning PGA Professional Craig Thomas offers coaching and operates a fully stocked golf shop. For the advanced golfer, a swing room allows club demos, custom �itting and coaching using Flight Scope industry leading technology. A separate short course and practice area allows beginners to gain skills before progressing to the main course.

Oxley Park is the gol�ing gem that brings the countryside to just a mile from the centre of urban Wolverhampton. The picturesque 106 year old Harry Colt-designed parkland course has well-conditioned fairways that reward accurate drives and well-protected greens to test your mid-to-short iron game. Fast greens are amongst the best in the region. The 18hole 6,228-yard course is relatively quick to play, allowing golf to �it in with the rest of your day.

The course attracts many visiting golfers and societies, including the “Wolves Legends” charity golf day once again booked for 2019, featuring scores of former Wolverhampton Wanderers players and their guests.

Members joining in 2019 receive £200 worth of extra bene�its including vouchers to spend in the golf shop and much more. For members there are regular competitions and matches with other clubs, plus social mix-ins several times a week – just turn up, no need to arrange a partner.

Women golfers bene�it from ½ price membership in their �irst year (for full 7 day members). PGA Assistant Professional Megan Hopkins is on hand to support female golfers from beginner level upwards. Junior membership starts from only £25 a year and includes free group tuition, with Oxley Park now accredited as one of only four Pathway Centres in the county for developing junior golfers under 14. Visiting golfers are welcome on weekdays and on weekend afternoons – phone for tee availability. “Twilight golf” offers a full game for just £15 after 4pm on weekdays (excl. Wed).

FULL MEMBERSHIP 2019/20 Unlimited golf all year round including voucher benefits worth £200*

FLEXI MEMBERSHIP up to 29 rounds a year from just £12.75 per round*

ADULTS UNDER 32

up to 80% off full membership (depending on age)

Tel: 01902 773989

Stafford Road, Bushbury, Wolverhampton WV10 6DE www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

LADIES GOLF NEW MEMBER OFFER 50% off 1st Year’s full 7 day membership for new women members

VISITORS WELCOME Green fees start from £15 phone to book

*Terms and conditions apply

office@oxleyparkgolfclub.co.uk www.oxleyparkgolfclub.co.uk

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on offer at Wergs also offer a well-stocked club shop selling equipment and clothing for golfers of all standards. Novices can feel assured that they are purchasing the right equipment for them with the advice of experienced shop staff, whilst advanced players will also be able to find the perfect equipment that they are searching for. But it’s not just about golf at Wergs!

With longer days and the promise of sunshine to come (hopefully!), why not join one of the most improved clubs in the area with probably the best value golf membership in the region. Owned by the Moseley family for two generations, Wergs Golf Club offers a superb 18-hole, 6949-yard course in a glorious rural setting, only 10 minutes from Wolverhampton City Centre. Offering good value for money is undoubtedly key to the continued success of the club. In conjunction with this there has been significant investment in the course. In addition, the golf club recently created a new extension which was part of a £250,000 refurbishment programme. Welcoming visitors and corporate groups the club’s popularity is certainly growing so make sure you don’t miss out on the great facilities available. New corporate memberships are currently on offer all for an annual cost of £500 +VAT. This includes: 152

• A free advertising panel on one of the tees • One four ball every month • Use of the sports lounge for meetings with free WI-FI • Reduced rates on corporate golf days The course itself offers a variety of new features including a new covered 8 bay driving range with 50 balls costing just £3.00. The golf driving range is open 7 days per week and offers golfers of all abilities a great place to practice and improve their game at any time of the year. Alternatively, you may like to have a chat with the resident expert and PGA professional Shaun Ball. With over 30 years golfing experience, Shaun is able to use his knowledge to give you practical tips focussing on specific areas to improve your game.

Their traditional Sports Lounge offers FREE WIFI and has two TV’s in the golfer’s lounge with SKY TV including SKY Sports. Enjoy a range of lite bites, breakfast or lunch before and after your round in a warm atmosphere surrounded by interesting memorabilia. With its rolling hills, lofty trees and well-appointed clubhouse, Wergs Golf Club is the ideal setting for special functions. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, anniversary, or remembrance ceremony, Wergs will work closely with you to ensure you get exactly the right ambience for your event. Their Events Team are passionate and creative, with a wealth of local knowledge to help tailor your perfect day or evening. For bookings or more information please email info@wergsgolfclub.com or call 01902 742225.

You can choose to play the full ‘championship competition course’ off the white tees, the ‘general play course’ off the yellow tees or the ‘short course’ off the red tees, all of which provide their own unique characteristics and challenges. wolverhampton west magazine

WERGS GOLF CLUB

NEW MEMBERSHIP OFFER 12 MONTHS FULL 7 DAY MEMBERSHIP

PLAY ANY TIME FOR ONLY £600 Limited offer, available throughout May and June 2019 *terms and conditions apply

VISITOR LOYALTY SCHEME Play 4 rounds of golf and get 5th round FREE

Sky Sports TV

NEW DRIVING RANGE

New 8 bay covered driving range open 7 days per week A great place to practice and improve your game all year around Only £3.00 for 50 balls

Free WiFi

Breakfast & Lunch

SPORTS LOUNGE Open to all – The ideal place to meet friends whether you’re a member or not!

Good atmosphere

THE IDEAL SETTING FOR SPECIAL FUNCTIONS - WAkES, CELEbRATION PARTIES, WEDDINGS, bUSINESS CONFERENCES

WWW.WERGSGOLFcLuB.cOM Wergs Golf Club Keepers Lane, Tettenhall Wolverhampton West Midlands WV6 8UA

For booKings or More inForMATion PLeAse eMAiL INFO@WERGSGOLFCLUB.COM

or cALL

01902 742 225

e info@wergsgolfclub.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Prices correct at time of going to print 153

DavID saLT’s Charity golf day After retiring in 2009, I decided to raise funds for Muscular Dystrophy UK, who work tirelessly to find a cure to this muscle wasting disease, a condition I have. Since golf had been my preferred sport for most of my life, I felt it would be a great platform to start a Charity event, so in 2010 I embarked on my first attempt. Supported by many business contacts, along with South Staffordshire golf club members, I saw an embryo of an idea taking shape, and when speaking to the assistant professional at the time, he said “ Get the day right and you will have success in the future” and I am very pleased to report that he was correct. Each year has seen more teams entering, and this year will be a record number that will help generate a healthy cash return that goes to the continuous research for effective treatments, and cures for all muscle-wasting conditions.

Playing on one of the top courses in the Midlands, has seen many players travel from all around the UK, to play South Staffordshire Golf Club, and they have supported me virtually every year since they have enjoyed the event.

This year’s event is on Thursday July 4th and should anyone wish to play in the future please contact me, or Sue Le Beau, general manager, on 01902 751065 Option 1. David Salt davidccsalt@yahoo.co.uK

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HiQ Wolverhampton 11 Chapel Ash, WV3 0UB

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Driving S cared “I was told that, back in the day, some owners would hold back some performance so they could let other people – like their wives – drive their vehicles as well. It is now set back to where it should be.” I let out an audible gulp.

Three Pines Building Company boss Alan Bradshaw drops motoring correspondent Rob Taylor into the hot seat when he shows off his formidable Porsche car collection. “I’ve only just put the seats back into this one,” says Alan, as I nervously squeak behind the wheel of his red 1988 Porsche 944 Turbo S.

You see, for some time this particular Porsche didn’t deliver its 250bhp quite as he had been expecting. In short, it didn’t seem fast enough. He moved from specialist to specialist – even fitting an ECU upgrade to bestow 293bhp along the way in a bid to get the requisite thrills – but the problem persisted. Until a chance meeting with a fellow enthusiast led to a discovery: “Turns out that the turbo boost was dialled down; as a kind of safety feature,” adds Alan.

This was, of course, back in an era when the Porsche 911 Turbo had a sinister nickname: widow-maker. Early turbochargers provided spiky power delivery at best and were the main reason for the infamy – as well as the rear-engined layout, of course. Thank goodness the 944 has its engine in the proper place! The cart should always come before the horse. Produced for just one year in 1988 and benefiting from rare red paintwork in right-hand drive, this vehicle is in amazing condition, having had, among other things, a new interior and turbo since Alan bought it in 2017. Driving fast cars from 30-odd years ago required skill, today it really doesn’t. I wonder in my sleepystate, do I have such skills? Alan comes with me on my test drive; “sawed-off shotgun standing by”.

It’s 10am; he’s been up and at work on this car, just one of his eight others – 5 classic, 3 modern – since 6am this morning. Whereas I’m still in a waking, post-lie-in stupor after repeatedly hitting ‘snooze’ on my alarm clock only an hour ago. Nescafe’s finest beans won’t work on me anymore, but what Alan says to me next about his recent acquisition from Silverstone Auctions works like a charm: I’m now wide awake.

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70th anniversary, this car is the only one of its kind: rebuilt by Porsche Swindon, the model has had a bare metal restoration and now even boasts sat-nav and handsfree phone connectivity. Resplendent in ‘Liquid Silver’ paint finish from the 918 Spyder hybrid supercar and with super-cool alloys, it’s rare for another reason also – Alan’s done absolutely nothing to it. “I’ve always worked on cars, having that experience with them is key to why I do it, but I couldn’t resist the 996 C2.” The weight of the clutch and the heft required to work the steering and brakes reminds me of how sanitised today’s performance cars are. This 944 is a brute. His 1981 924 Carrera GT is as well I’m sure, although I can’t speak to it with the same certainty because I can’t drive it. It was purchased as a project car in 2017 and was one of only 75 right-hand drive variants produced for the UK; today only 9 remain registered. The vehicle has had a thorough restoration and is much sought after by collectors and the specialist motoring press. But back to the Turbo S; forgive me, but with so much metal on display here at Alan and wife Louise’s home in Codsall Wood, it’s easy to get sidetracked. My personal guilty pleasure is his 3.2 litre 911 Supersport, but more on this later…

and head back into the garage, to find out why Alan traded in his ample collection and first love of fast Fords for eight of Stuttgart’s finest. “A lot of why I started buying Mexico’s, fast Fords etc was nostalgia. Memories of being 17 years old and wanting to go one better than my mates. But once I got into Porsche there was no going back. I absolutely love them.” A particular favourite of his right now (these things can – and will – change) is his 996 C2-designation 911. And it’s far rarer than it might seem. Purchased last year at the NEC’s Classic Car Show from Porsche UK as part of the marque’s

Whether it’s fixing crossed-wiring or fitting a sat-nav system Alan applies the same work ethic and attention to detail that’s made his building firm renowned. It’s clear to see that when he’s not running his company, he’s driving his cars. He even has a picture of one of his cars set as wallpaper on his iPhone. It’s not the car I’d have chosen – we’re back to that wide-bodied targa-topped 911 Supersport again – but, as a fellow car fan, I like the man’s style. I tell him I’d love to drive the Supersport. He tells me that the interior is in pieces. My heart then falls to pieces, so I vow to return to drive it soon – definitely late in the afternoon next time…

300bhp in this 944 may not sound like much, when today you can buy a fast hatchback with as much beneath the bonnet, but, believe me, allied to this relatively light kerb-weight it feels really quick. Egged on by Alan I poke the throttle and hear the turbo whistle. This is buttock-clenching stuff on these sinuous B-roads. This car is an adrenaline pump; it makes you feel alive – and very awake – when you drive it: in fact, it feels a little bit dangerous. But it’s time to back-off

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Mercedes-aMG

speeds things up by expanding ThE coMpacT caR FaMILy

Following the Hot Hatch, the next level of driving performance is here: the A 35 4MATIC is the second model from MercedesAMG based on the new compact car platform and the first choice for customers looking for sportiness combined with a comfortable amount of space for passengers and luggage. The exceptional driving dynamics of the agile model are powered by the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G dual-clutch transmission, the AMG suspension and the variable AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The new A 35 4MATIC Saloon expands the current AMG model range by an additional attractive entry-level model. It appeals to people who are looking for a high

level of performance and a comfortable amount of space for passengers and luggage. An acceleration time of 4.8 seconds for 0-62 mph and the top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited) meet these customers’ requests for high driving dynamics also in the compact segment. “Following the very successful launch of the hatchback model, which has been extremely popular in our showroom, things are moving along even more in the compact class at AMG. Sport saloons are where Mercedes-AMG began and part of the brand’s core. With our new A35, we are transporting this history into modern times in the form of a very attractive model that serves as a point of entry into the world of AMG and appeals to even more people”, says Peter Smith, General Manager of MercedesBenz of Wolverhampton. The four-door saloon car has the powerful proportions of a dynamic, and at the same time, compact saloon car with sporty

short overhangs at the front and rear. The radiator grille with twin louvres; the AMG Line front apron and silver chrome trim elements are distinguishing AMG design features. From the side view, the 18-inch light-alloy wheels in five twin-spoke design really catch the eye. Needless to say, in the interior of the A 35 4MATIC Saloon, the trailblazing voice control activated with the words “Hey Mercedes” is on-board. MBUX creates an even closer connection between the vehicle, driver and passengers. The two displays under one shared glass cover blend into a Widescreen Cockpit and as a central element consequently emphasise the horizontal orientation of the interior design. The Mercedes-AMG A35 4MATIC Saloon will be arriving at Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton soon.

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

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The A-Class, now with 3 Years Free Servicing.*

Get extra peace of mind… Take a test drive today. Call in and see us to find out more. Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton Penn Road, Wolverhampton, WV2 4HD Lookers.co.uk/Mercedes-Benz Applicable to all new A-Class Hatchback models incl. A 35 AMG (excludes old model S 176 A-Class) registered between 01.04.19 – 30.06.19 (inclusive). Vehicles must be secured on an MBFS finance contract to be eligible. Applies to all private retail and small fleet (1-24 units) customers only. ServiceCare Plan based on 3 services taken at relevant service intervals – either 15,500 miles or 12 months whichever comes sooner. All services must be completed by an authorised Mercedes-Benz Retailer. Offer can be used in conjunction with all other applicable Sales Campaigns except other ServiceCare campaigns. No cash alternative. The ServiceCare plan cannot be transferred to another vehicle. Mercedes-Benz Cars UK Limited reserves the right to amend or remove this offer at any time. Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the Mercedes-Benz range: urban 14.2(19.9)-62.8(4.5), extra urban 25.9(10.9)-72.4(3.9), combined 19.9(14.2)-68.9(4.1). CO2 emissions 325-108 g/km. The indicated values were determined according to the prescribed measurement method. These are the “NEDC CO2 values” according to Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). For more information on these values and how they have been calculated please see http://www.mercedesbenz.co.uk/WLTP Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions, chosen optional extras and other non-technical.

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SeiSdon GaraGe • Free A/C Check with every Full Service! • re-Charge A/C From £55.00 (+VAT) • All A/C Diagnostic work available • While you wait service or we’ll come to you! Your local Garage for MOT’s, Servicing and all your Motoring needs For Friendly advice or to book please ask for Dean or Alex:

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Call in for further advice or A/C health check!

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Aerial Photography 132 iSky Media Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel 133 Image Luxury Travel Appliances - Electrical & Gas 57 Washer Wise Barber Shops 116 Trim Bathrooms 23 Eaton Kitchens 25 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique Beauty Salons & Clinics BooshTox 105 94/95 Heaven Skin Care Olivias Beauty 111 75/98/99 Luminaire Beds & Bedroom Furniture 43 Leekes Bedroom Wardrobes (fitted) 25 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique Bereavement Services 58 South Staffs Bereavement Services Blinds, Curtains & Shutters 19 The Fabric Barn Val Hever Blinds 23 Building Services & Contractors 20/21 Three Pines Butchers Allan Bennett 69 Poxons 70/71 Caravan Accessories 63 Cannock Caravan Accessories Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists Touch Dry 58 Carpet Supply & Fit 19 Sandford Carpets Car Body Repairs 154 Elite Car Sales & Service Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton 159 163 Porsche Centre Wolverhampton Chiropody & Podiatry 119 Foot Therapy Cleaning services-Interior & Exterior 58 Nationwide Cleaners RC Cleaning 54 Computer Services 59 Finchfield IT Day Nurseries Sandhills 37 Delicatessen 75 Corbelli Dentistry 2/3 Willows Diet & Slimming 104 Cambridge Diet Domestic Appliance Sales & Repair Washer Wise 57 Domiciliary Care Services 116 Quality Home Care Doors - Composite 35 Doorsmart Driveways 41 Resindrives.co.uk

Education 122 Newbridge School St. Dominic’s School 127 Tettenhall College 125 Wolverhampton Grammar School 129 Electricians & Electrical Contractors Central Electrical Contracts 33 Entertainment & Leisure Discover Dudley 66 Estate Agents Berriman Eaton 13 Fashion - Retail Aristocats 100/101 Fencing & Gates 53 Profence Financial Advisors Midland Independent Financial Services 16/17 Fireplaces & Stoves Flaming Fires 19 Wolverhampton Fireplaces 15 Fitness & Leisure Centres Chris Jewkes 113 South Staffordshire Leisure 92 Flooring JBT Interiors 57 Furniture & Furnishings 43 Leekes Sofa Factory Outlet 7 The Wood Depot 32 Galleries & Gift Shops 31 Stourbridge Galleries Gaming & Entertainment 84 Casino 36 Garage Services 155 HiQ Tyres Seisdon Garage 160 Garage Doors 55 Garolla Roller Shutter Doors Garden Design 51 Boningale Garden Creations Gardening & Landscaping 49 Lealans Garden Centre Potting Shed 42 Golf Clubs 144/145 3 Hammers Golf Complex Oxley Park Golf Club 151 South Staffs Golf Club 147 153 Wergs Golf Club Hairdressers Royston Blythe 96/97 Health Care Cover 60/61 Paycare Heating Engineers RS Heating 56 Hospices 65 Compton Care Hospitals – Private 106 Nuffield Hotels 79 Park House Hotel Italian Deli Corbelli’s 75 Jewellers 164 Rudell The Jewellers T.A.Henn 11 Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit Dream Doors 29 Eaton Kitchens 23 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 25

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Landscaping Products/Services Able Greenscapes 53 47 Carvers Legal Services 131 Manby Bowdler Solicitors Letting Agents 13 Berriman Eaton Lighting Lighting R Us 33 Locksmiths Cummings Brothers 56 Loft Ladders Lyndale 15 Markets 67 Penkridge Market Opticians Taylor Biddle 115 Orthopaedic Surgery 118 Wolverhampton Hip & Knee Clinic Painters & Decorators 57 JBT Interiors Kevin Jackson 54 Photography 133 Andrews Creative Crescent Imaging 133 Plumbing & Heating JB Plumbing & Heating 54 Property Maintenance Services 57 S. Parton Building Maintenance Racecourses Wolverhampton Racecourse 91 Reclaimed Timber Specialists 32 The Wood Depot Restaurants/Pubs 85 Blossoms Casino 36 84 85 Flamingo Pink Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 87 Oakley Arms 83 Park House Hotel 79 The Courtyard 82 The Shrewsbury Arms 82 Wolverhampton Racecourse 91 Wombourne Tandoori 79 Skip Hire 57 Wolverhampton Skip Hire Stairs & Stair Components 15 Lyndale Tailoring & Dressmaking 116 Sew Many Things Taxis ABC Cars 59 Tennis & Squash Clubs Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis & Squash 117 Club Tiles & Interiors Tile Choice 9 Tyres 155 HiQ Tyres Vein Clinics 118 Simon Hobbs Vineyard & Craft Centre 87 Halfpenny Green Wine Estate Wedding Venues 79 Park House Hotel Windows, Conservatories, Orangeries 27 Tettenhall Windows

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The Legend Continues

New Porsche 911 Launch at Porsche Centre Wolverhampton arch over the 20-inch diameter front wheels and 21-inch diameter rear wheels. The rear shoulders of the car are now the same width across all models, further highlighting the slim line centre section. Flush integration of the electric pop-out door handles further emphasise the tapered and smooth side contours. The entire outer skin of the body is now made from aluminium, apart from the front and rear sections.

On 25 March 2019, Porsche Centre Wolverhampton welcomed over 270 guests to an exciting preview event to showcase the latest models in the Porsche line-up, the new 911 Carrera S and 911 Carrera 4S. The event, held at Porsche Centre Wolverhampton located on Stafford Road, was hosted by Jodi Macdonald, Centre Principal at Porsche Centre Wolverhampton and Jonathan Mannell, Manager of Ownership Services Porsche GB.

in all their glory and see the exciting improvements which have been made to these synonymous Porsche models. The new 911 continues to set the standard when it comes to exclusive sporting performance. Unmistakably true to the ethos of Porsche design DNA, the new 911 features a much more muscular stance, and an interior featuring a 10.9-inch touchscreen monitor. The exterior design is completely new and emphasises the leap in performance for the 911 Type 992. Significantly wider wheel housings

In addition to the striking design, the models have been further developed to deliver more power than ever before. Both 911 models can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in under four seconds: the rear-wheel-drive Coupé can achieve this benchmark in 3.7 seconds and the 911 Carrera 4S with all-wheel drive in 3.6 seconds. This makes both cars 0.4 seconds faster than the previous model in each case. Jodi Macdonald, Centre Principal at Porsche Centre Wolverhampton commented: “We were delighted to host this exclusive evening for our customers to showcase the new 911 Carrera S and 911 Carrera 4S models. The 911 has been a Porsche icon for over 50 years so to be able to have the latest edition in our showroom for this preview event has been a highlight.”

To find out more about the new 911 model and to view the services available from Porsche Centre Wolverhampton visit:

www.porschewolverhampton.co.uk

Guests enjoyed a live music performance with drinks and canapés served throughout the night before being treated to a stunning display of these two new models. Also on display on the evening was a classic 1983 Porsche 911 Cabriolet which launched the 911’s reputation for excellent durability and build quality as well as an extremely rare Porsche ‘Master’ Tractor which had arrived in the UK from Germany on the morning of the preview event. The evening was the first opportunity for Porsche customers to see the brand-new models 162

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When we look to the future, we see ourselves looking back. The new 911. Timeless Machine.

Porsche Centre Wolverhampton Stafford Road Wolverhampton WV10 7ER 01902 394 010 info@porschewolverhampton.co.uk www.porschewolverhampton.co.uk

911 Carrera S official fuel consumption (WLTP): combined 10.4-9.9 l/100km (27.2-28.5 mpg). CO2 emissions (NEDC equivalent): 205 g/km. Figures are intended for comparability purposes. The fuel consumption you achieve under real life driving conditions and CO2 produced will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted after registration, variations in driving styles, weather conditions and vehicle load.

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