Wolverhampton West Magazine - October 2018

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

Spotlight on…

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The Jacksons at The Mount Hotel Country Manor

Royston Blythe’s ■■

Secrets to success

Win! ■■

A meal for two at The 3 Hammers Bar and Bistro october 2018

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Tickets to see Kinky Boots at The Grand Theatre

october 2018

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

Introducing internationally recognised dental implant surgeon Jonathon Pugh BDS MSc Wolverhampton based dental implant surgeon Jonathon Pugh BDS MSc is recognised as an international expert in the patient-centric care of people who have lost or who are losing their teeth.

Jon was born and educated in Birmingham, graduating from the University of Birmingham in 1987 with honours and a distinction in clinical dentistry. His MSc in implant dentistry was completed at Warwick University, again with distinction, and he has been placing and restoring dental implants for over 27 years.

He moved to Wolverhampton in 1991 and has focused his practice here. He currently operates at the Parkdale Dental and Implant Clinic. Due to Jon’s extensive experience the Clinic is recognised as a centre of excellence.

Jon has recently attended an alignment meeting and alumni event for Pro Arch Centres of excellence in Lisbon, Portugal.

The alignment meeting was hosted by Professor Joao Carames of the Instituto de Implantologia whilst the alumni meeting was hosted by Straumann a world leading implant company Jon has worked with his entire professional career.

All aspects of treatment are undertaken at the Clinic but Jon’s main area of interest is in helping people through the process of tooth loss to rehabilitation with implant borne replacement teeth. This process involves the placement of multiple Straumann implants with or without immediate loading. Which means, that if certain criteria are met, new fixed replacement teeth can be fitted in a day.

If you’re considering dental implants or are having issues with uncomfortable or misfitting dentures, please contact the Parkdale Dental & Implant Clinic.

01902 420654 parkdaledentalandimplantclinic.co.uk

To arrange your complimentary consultation, call us on: or visit:

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Parkdale Dental & Implant Clinic, 82 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton WV1 4TF reception.parkdale@portmanhealthcare.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine

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Contents

The local property market by Nick Berriman

10

Living space – autumn updates

16

Rotary Club of Wolverhampton

18

Four men and a big mountain

24

Crosswords & Puzzles

28

Recipe of the month

32

Wolverhampton young citizens award

34

Wolverhampton Society of Artists

40

Fizzhog’s - world famous dancing grannies

Gardening with Ann Winwood

56

Smoke signals to smartphones

60

Ghost Stories – Winter Chills

62

The Jacksons in Wolverhampton!

68/69

Food review – Halfpenny Green Wine Estate

80/81

3 Hammers Bar & Bistro competition

82

Royston Blythe’s Secrets to Success

86/87

Deborah Mitchell Guest Beauty

92

Ladies’ Fashion: step out in style this season

104/105

41

Social Scene

114-125

Ava’s Angels

44

Golf Tip

138

Pet Therapy

50

Motoring review – Lexus LS

142

Grand Theatre competition

54

Answers to crosswords and puzzles

144

Index to advertisers

145

Mercedes-Benz – never stop improving

146

Advertising enquiries Email: sales@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Gisella Wiley (Sales Director) Editorial/What’s On information Email: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Geoff Hall (Editor) Magazine Design Studio 28 Design & Print (www.s28.co.uk) Wolverhampton West Magazine Lytham Rd, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY Tel: 01902 744217 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Congratulations to: Winners of the Grand Theatre competition to see Awful Auntie Judy Airston, Tettenhall Amy Kirkby, Finchfield Winners of a table for four at Horizons Restaurant Suzanne Webster Smith, Lower Penn Timothy Diver, Codsall

We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Wolverhampton West Magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, The Publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert or editorial.

All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Wolverhampton West Magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise - without the prior consent of Wolverhampton West Magazine Ltd.

*Total distribution 25,000 copies across 2 months

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

03

from the editor Thank goodness for this summer’s sunshine! After nearly a decade of presummer editor’s letters full of impending warm weather and the virtues of barbecues and garden furniture, I can finally, for once, say that I was right.

Glorious summer weather did arrive and unless you spent it abroad (hard luck, folks), it’ll live long in the memory. So too will the England football team’s best World Cup result since 1990. Nice job lads, and thanks for doing it all without shedding (Gazza-esque) tears – even though the pitch could have done with a sprinkle.

Now, call me a doom-monger who refuses to read the Daily Express (every other headline promises a return to July’s heatwave any day now) but things are all downhill from here, because I like my weather the way I like my curry: hot. Yes, the green-fingered among us will be ecstatic to see England return to a lush and verdant land: hosepipes everywhere can pump freely, rivers can again flow with righteous abandon and after a pesky resurgence, the downfall of wasps will soon be swift and brutal: in short, normality will return and I’ll be forced indoors to resume my ‘grumpy-old-man’ training.

But enough of the pre-amble, let’s get back to normal. For us we mean business as usual (i.e. providing you with a one-stop curiosity shop of locality-laced literature), but for a lot of you this means breathing a sigh of relief that the kids are finally back in school, getting on with the new Premiership football season (let’s hope WWFC have a good season and that my beloved Baggies join them next year in the promised land) and getting a wriggle on with Christmas planning. That’s right, turning up once again like a £100 gift voucher you nearly threw out 04

with the wrapping paper, the festive season will soon be upon us so look lively when thinking of where to eat-out on the big day. Obviously we have the answers and more.

We’re also giving you the chance to win a competition prize of a meal for two at 3 Hammers Bar and Bistro.

Much has been happening this summer so it’s not surprising that our Social Scene is stuffed: we get you past security and inside Concero’s 10 years in business celebration; the 2018 Wire Awards, where independent Wolverhampton-based businesses tussle for top spot at Molineux stadium; Royston Blythe’s annual Apprentice competition at the Mount Hotel; Rotary’s Young Citizen of the Year awards and Albrighton-based Birchfield school’s Broadway-themed gala ball.

If you’ve been out enjoying the sun for the last few months your mind may now be turning to home improvement, so look inside for everything our advertisers have to offer: outside and inside, old favourites and new upstarts, we bring you the inside track – even if that happens to be 50 feet up in the air: as it is with drone photography business, iSky.

Bringing much in the way of ‘new’ and ‘unusual’ is our editorial about dancing grannies who selfie with Lewis Hamilton, The Fizzogs – it’s a story almost too surreal to believe; our feature on Motown’s finest musical quintet (no, they are not called the Jackson 5 anymore), The Jacksons’ visit to the Mount Hotel in Tettenhall – it’s almost too star-studded to believe; and our article on horror writer A G Smith’s impending ghost-story tour – it’s almost too scary to believe.

After which let your fingers stroll through our many pages on health, beauty and fashion: you’ll find articles on everything from chiropody clinic Foot Therapy to how to overcome dental-phobia at Willows dental practice. Plus we’ve got plenty on Education, food reviews that include a trip to Halfpenny Green Vineyards and the chance to see Kinky Boots at the Grand Theatre for free.

More than enough to keep the seasonal blues away.

See you in December…

Geoff wolverhampton west magazine

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Bespoke Jewellery Design Let me introduce you to Sophie, she is our new jewellery designer at Henns Family Jewellers. Sophie will be able to help you create a personal piece of jewellery from either a collection of heirlooms or convert an idea you have into a reality.

Sophie recently graduated from Plymouth College of Art with a degree in Jewellery Design and Silversmithing. She has made and designed pieces of jewellery since then including the words ‘I love you’ into a unique sound register profile, which can then be mounted as a ring, pendant or brooch. Quite

a talking point. Sophie has also worked with jewellery making processes and can convert your ideas into wax and resin versions of the same, enabling you to ‘try on’ the item before we commit it to precious metal.

To be able to spend up to 30 minutes with Sophie so she can chat with you and sketch out some of your ideas, email info@tahenn.com for an appointment, this initial consultation is free of charge, coffee included!

Currently she is not here all the time so an appointment is essential for you not to be disappointed. If you are looking to use your existing items do bring them all in along with any other bits you don’t wear. They may help pay for the whole exercise, and we will transfer the sentimental value into your new piece.

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Robert Shotton, Founder, met Prince Charles after carpeting the Help the Heroes family room at QE Hospital, Birmingham 09

The local

property market

by Nick Berriman

Mr Trump would call it fake news and there is no doubt that irreparable harm can be caused.

We live in an age of instant communication where information about almost everything is available at the press of a button on laptops, smart phones and various other devices.

No more does the answer to questions come from Encyclopedia Britannica or the local library but from a magical device which can be carried in a pocket. It can be argued that an important lesson learned at school was how to find information which was essential before university but that is now a thing of the past with all answers available without any skill or effort.

Just as calculators have bred several generations who have no mental arithmetic skills we now have a generation with all they need at their fingertips with no idea how to manage if there is a computer crash or a power cut.

What, you may say, has that to do with the property market. We all know that computers are only as good as the information fed into them and there are doubts about some online reviews where there are opportunities to either praise or condemn businesses of many types by posting untrue reports which appear to be genuine.

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There was an interesting article recently discussing the various organisations who report on house prices and the market state. We have often found that after an optimistic report clients increase their expectations of the worth of their properties. I have often written in these pages about how our experience on the ground has not reflected many of the reports and surveys we have read.

This recent article reviewed how much of this market research is carried out and explains how the discrepancies occur.

Shortly before this article was written Nationwide said that prices rose 0.6% in July compared with the previous month while Rightmove said that prices fell by 0.1% in the same period. Halifax reported a 1.8% annual price growth in June while Hometrack had this number at 4.1%. The explanation for this is that each index takes a snapshot of a section of the market at a different time in the cycle. Some look at initial asking prices while others use negotiated sale prices. Some include cash purchases while others are only based on mortgages.

Rightmove looks at monthly asking prices based on the 90% of homes for sale that are listed on its website and excludes inner London. Nationwide is based on owner-occupier house purchases involving a mortgage with buy to let and cash deals excluded. Halifax is based on properties bought with mortgages but ignores those sold at prices which ‘may not represent free or normal market prices’.

Hometrack looks at 20 cities which contain a third of UK homes and 43% of housing value but covers less than 5% of the country. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Issues a survey based on reports of the expectations of about 250 of their members and The Office for National Statistics

includes all homes purchased at market value but only after the sales are completed so is about three months out of date.

So it is not a definitive situation and cannot reflect the individual nuances of a local market. This suggests that the best way of finding out what your property is worth is by asking an experienced local estate agent… you can probably guess who I would recommend!!

I give my interpretation of current market conditions in each of my articles. Recently I have bemoaned that there has been a dearth of properties coming on the market, not just locally but nationally.

However in July this trend has been reversed in our Tettenhall office with it being one of the best months we have ever had for new instruction. Sales have continued to be active and will shortly reflect the new stock. Rentals report increased activity in the present month. The lower price rentals have been a little quieter during the first half of the year but have been supported by increased activity in the top end where rents are £1,500 per month or more.

This might be explained by a certain local football club who have been frenetically involved in the transfer market and who will be nameless to avoid upsetting fans of the Baggies, the Blues or the Villa on whom fans of that club look down with enormous pride and satisfaction!

wolverhampton west magazine

MIMAR HOUSE AND ANNEX, ACTON TRUSSELL An outstanding family home providing skilfully extended and versatile accommodation in a superb corner of just over half an acre in total with the additional benefit of detached annex accommodation in a sought after village setting with open views to the front and particularly easy accessibility.

Seven bedrooms, five reception rooms and four bathrooms. In addition to the substantial principal residence there is the benefit of self contained, detached annex accommodation which is ideal for independent relatives and which has been appointed and finished in a similar fashion to Mimar House itself. There is also the potential for the creation of a self contained apartment within the main house.

Carriage driveway, double garage and rear garden. (EPC: C).

OFFERS AROUND ÂŁ765,000 VIEWING: Please contact the Tettenhall Office.

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

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Spectacular Staircases at Lyndale Stairs Ltd a more traditional look, the choices of modern designs that are available now offer the beauty of natural wood in stylish and contemporary design.”

If you’re keen to increase the storage space in your home you’ll be pleased to read that Lyndale also offer a loft ladder and boarding service too.

“We can install loft ladders in all types of property; we have many different ladders available and we also offer customers the option to have insulation and boarding installed too which gives a complete finish for the roof space,” adds Neill.

You might not realise it, but your staircase can be so much more than just a functional part of your home.

The team at Lyndale offer a complete re-design service for new staircases as well as extensive refurbishments for existing staircases.

With the help of Burntwoodbased stair specialists, Lyndale Stairs Ltd, you can transform your staircase in to a stylish design feature that will complement your home interior style perfectly.

In fact, when it comes to materials, Lyndale’s choice of glass and wood designs suit all tastes and styles.

As Neill Parker explains: “Over the last twenty years we’ve worked tirelessly to help our customers revitalise their existing staircase through a range of different methods and services.”

“We use our vast selection of materials, fully skilled design team and our professional joiners and installers to achieve the perfect look for every customer.”

And what’s more, because the company offer superior service and quality products each and every job they undertake runs seamlessly.

For more information on Lyndale’s staircases and ladders visit their website

www.lyndalestairs.co.uk or, call into the showroom and let one of Lyndale’s sales team guide you through everything you need to know.

“We offer many types of glass products that will bring a contemporary look to any home. All our glass is toughened and compliant with British Standards as a minimum. We can install this type of product onto a new staircase or to your existing staircase using various methods and designs that all look spectacular.”

Wood is always a favourite with those looking for traditional style but it can also have a modern twist too.

“Although wooden balustrades provide

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advertisement feature

Don’t be a slave to Debt

anD higher rate tax payers nearing retirement: Don’t miss out!

I have in the past month been contacted by 3 new clients who are all higher rate tax payers nearing retirement.

The one thing they all had in common was the fact that in recent years they have remortgaged and, because of their age, taken a repayment mortgage over a short period of time that has given rise to considerable monthly payments.

I must stress at this point that every client I meet has different needs and objectives and the recommendation given to all 3 clients differed considerably to reflect this. The one fundamental parallel is that following our intervention they all felt a huge financial burden had been lifted from their shoulders.

It is important you clear your credit card balance on a monthly basis and if you do, this is a great way of making purchases with an underwritten guarantee from the credit card company that the goods meet the standards you would expect. But if you don’t, the minimum monthly payment merely covers the monthly interest and little else. Over the years I have met clients whose credit card debt has been static for a decade, paying interest rates approaching 20% per annum.

Can you have good debt?

Most unsecured debt, particularly credit cards, I would deem to be bad debt due to the high level of interest charged.

I would argue that currently with mortgage rates at an alltime low and lenders offering 5 year fixed rates below 2% for higher rate tax payers in particular, you can utilise money elsewhere rather than reduce the balance with overpayments.

You can get 0% interest balance transfers however what you find is that a considerable number who have this only make

An example of this is a client who contacted me as he is concerned with how he will manage financially once he retires. He currently earns

What is bad debt?

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minimum payments and do not attempt to clear the balance at the end of the offer period.

a basic salary of £60,000 per annum and receives an annual bonus of £30,000 that he uses to reduce his mortgage balance.

He has 3 years left to when he thinks he will retire so in effect he will, over the next 3 years, receive £90,000 in gross bonus which, after tax and national insurance, would give him £52,200 - yes you have read correctly, HMRC will retain £37,800 in tax and national insurance.

If he takes the bonus in 3 years’ time he will in effect owe £52,200 less but what if he decided to exchange this bonus in lieu of a pension contribution, how would that work?

Firstly he spoke to his employer who was willing to pass on any employers’ National Insurance (NI) saving to his employee. What most people forget is that in order for the employer to pay a bonus of £30,000, he would incur employers’ NI of 13.8% or £4,140.

This means that the gross contribution into the pension is £34,140 which over 3 wolverhampton west magazine

years would give a total contribution of £102,420.

If, when he retires, he decides to withdraw this money over a 2 year period, presuming that he remains a basic rate tax payer, he would receive the following: Tax free cash of £25,605.

Gross income taxable at 20% of £76,815 which would result in a tax payment of £15,363 leaving net income of £61,452.

Investment returns and interest rates of course have an impact on the illustrated figures and the value of any investment can go down as well as up. For the purposes of the above example I have assumed the pension monies are held in a cash fund and interest is calculated on a 5 year fixed rate mortgage.

Always seek professional advice.

When you add together the tax free cash and net income, the total amount received is £87,057 - compared to £52,200 if he took the bonus payment whilst being a higher rate tax payer.

The additional amount received through this little tax exercise is £34,857 - all courtesy of HMRC. What I have not factored into the savings above is the fact that each year he would have reduced his mortgage debt thereby saving interest which, in the first year assuming a fixed rate of 2%, would have been £348 then £696 in year 2 and £1,044 in years 3 and 4 before clearing the balance.

So taking this into consideration, the interest cost would have been £3,132, reducing the overall saving to £31,725.

This little bit of tax planning for higher rate tax payers is simple and effective. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

John Webb

John Webb is a Chartered Financial Planner and a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society, the highest accolade designated by that organisation.

The Personal Finance Society is the professional body for the Financial Advisory Profession in the United Kingdom, promoting the highest standards of technical knowledge, client service and ethical practice.

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

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

www.midlandifa.co.uk Throughout the year Midland Independent hold investment seminars with industry experts.

If you would like to attend please email: info@midlandifa.co.uk 15

Autumn Updates Now that the summer is drawing to a close and the cooler days of autumn are fast approaching, it’s time to take a look at your indoor - and outdoor - living space and make those changes that’ll allow you - and your family - to fully embrace the new season.

diffusers that’ll waft an inviting perfume around your home for hours. And, when it comes to choosing a scent for autumn and winter, you can’t go wrong with woody scents, accompanied with notes of vanilla, ginger and spice.

Autumn al fresco There’s no denying it, it was a great summer and you probably enjoyed many a long summer night sitting out in the garden sipping a glass of wine. Even though the nights are drawing in and the weather’s cooling down, that doesn’t mean that you have to close the door on your al fresco haven.

It’s easy to keep the chill off by investing in some outdoor heating and there are plenty of different types to choose from.

Electric patio heaters heat your garden quickly and with minimal fuss. Thanks to a choice of shapes and sizes, you can be sure to find a perfect fit, whether you’re wall-mounting it, placing it on a raised surface or simply positioning it on the floor.

Getting your home ready for autumn is easy; it’s all about creating a cosy feel that everyone loves walking into when they step in from the cold.

Fabulous fireplaces If you’re keen to make some big changes at home, then start with your fireplace.

Practical and stylish, a new fireplace serves to not only heat your home, but provide a focal point that can instantly change the look – and feel – of your interior, as well as giving it a serious style injection.

If you’ve got a large area to heat then a gaspowered version is a good choice, otherwise it may be better to opt for a halogen heater: they’re efficient, eco-friendly and cost-effective.

Of course, you could always choose a fire pit.

Bringing a ‘camp fire feel’ to your garden, fire pits come in all sizes and are perfect for cosying-up with friends outside as the night cools down. Whether you opt for a woodburning, gas-burning or gel-fuel-burning variety, you’re sure to enjoy the warm, welcoming – and stylish – feel a fire pit brings to your garden.

If you love a cosy country feel then you’ll no doubt adore a wood burning stove and, if you fancy something a little different, why not opt for a cream design instead of the traditional cast iron look?

Keeping you just as cosy, a sleek gas-burning fireplace – complete with a smokeless flame – will complete the look in any modern living room, whilst still creating a homely feel.

Scrumptious smells Sometimes little changes can have a big effect. We often overlook just how important our sense of smell is but smells really do make a lasting impression and there’s no better way to welcome guests into your home than with an inviting fragrance.

There are plenty of beautiful scents to choose from on the market, as well gorgeous fragranced candles and 16

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17

The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton

Rotary inspires a new generation with a junior technology tournament The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton went along to Uplands Junior School in Finchfield recently, at the invitation of teacher Carolyn Bryan. The invitation had resulted from a visit by Carolyn to a ‘Big Bang’ fair at the NEC, which was the UK’s largest celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths for young people. Carolyn had been enthused by a demonstration of the Rotary Junior Technology Tournament and was eager that a tournament should be staged at Uplands School.

The tournaments are a challenging and enjoyable way for young people to enrich their STEM (Science, Technology and Engineering) learning. They are designed for 8 -11 year olds and in partnership with The Rochester Bridge Trust Rotary provides an interesting and fun experience that tests the knowledge, innovation, team working and problem solving skills of the participants. The tournaments were recently granted a CREST (Creativity in Science and Technology) award by the British Science Association.

The youngsters, working in teams of 4 have to solve an interactive technology-based task and are required to design, model and build a solution with materials such as paper, card, clothes pegs, string and elastic rubber bands, using a premade wooden base, all supplied by Rotary free of charge.

At Uplands the task was to build a scale model of a bridge that would enable a squirrel to cross in

an environmentally friendly setting. The youngsters success was ably demonstrated at the end of the tournament when, among the tests to find a winning team, a hairdryer was used to see whether the model squirrel would be blown off the bridge in a gale! A new challenge is currently being designed for the coming academic year.

The whole of year 5 at Uplands - 93 children - took part. They were all fully engaged and enthusiastic throughout the day and the budding engineers set such a high standard with their bridge building solutions that it was decided to award three equal first prizes. These were presented by the President of the Wolverhampton club Paul Lockley jointly with the Chair of the School Governors, Debbie Anslow.

All the children received a certificate of participation.

The enjoyment was amply shown by some of the amusing names the children had selected themselves for their teams, such as the three winners ‘Dancing Donuts,’ ‘Slush Puppies’ and ‘Glorious Girls!’

Carolyn Bryan said ‘the children gained a lot from the day and we would love the Rotary club to visit us again,’ and indeed, arrangements are already being made to hold another tournament at Uplands in the autumn term.

Team leader Rotarian Richard Green who was accompanied by 8 Rotarians from the club and has retired from a career in construction said ‘it was very rewarding to see all of the boys and girls having such fun and being so involved in a very friendly and competitive way.’

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

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It’s the Little Things

The 2018 trend that adds the wow-factor to your décor The best thing about the Edisonstyle bulbs is that they come in LED variations. This way you can still have that authentic, retro experience, whilst being able to have a fixture that lasts longer and consumes less power. This is so much better for both the environment and your energy bills.

How to Style Them:

Vintage, Edison-Style Bulbs: A recent trend that complements the established industrial trend perfectly, are vintage Edison-style bulbs. Homeowners are loving the nostalgic element of these beautiful fixtures with their fabulous filaments and aesthetic design. The warm glow that radiates from these bulbs provide a homely feel and they’re perfect for areas such as the living room and kitchen. Coming in a variety of shapes and sizes, there is definitely something to suit all.

spice into the most contemporary of decors. Not to mention, they make a great vintage component in traditional interiors.

We have a high-quality range of LED filaments on our website at www.lightingrus.co.uk, or alternatively, you can see them in all their glory in our Wolverhampton showroom.

For maximum effect, our lighting experts at Lighting R Us recommend placing the LED filaments inside light fittings that have glass shades or wired detail, so it can really show off the soft beauty of the bulbs. They are the perfect place to start, if you’re looking to softly introduce the retro/industrial trend into your décor. They are not too extreme and still provide a warm aesthetic to any living space.

Don’t be fooled into thinking these bulbs are for retro decors only! They can even add a bit of

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

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wolverhampton west magazine

Kitchens with style – modern – contemporary – traditional Our Extensive range of kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms will enable us to create the room of your dreams.

Our Computer Aided Designs will give you the opportunity to experience your new room prior to installation.

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Established over 20 years w w w. e a t o n k i t c h e n d e s i g n s . c o . u k 21

Planning your dream bathroom at Leekes bathroom, a compact cloakroom or elegant en-suite, discover the perfect suite to suit your space. Our experienced and knowledgeable designers will create a design according to your specifications and to make the most of your layout. Our 3D design and planning service plots the existing shape of your bathroom to provide options for the positioning of your suites to bring your plan to life.

Colours & Finishes Whether you’re looking for a classic or contemporary style, you’ll discover an extensive range to help you find a bathroom to suit your style and budget. Our experienced designers will guide you through the choice of colours, shapes and finishes available.

Accessories

Bathrooms are available in all shapes and sizes - whatever your requirements, the experts at Leekes are on hand to make your beautiful bathroom a reality.

With options to suit all styles and budgets, you’ll be spoilt for choice and with the right design solution, your investment will last for years and add real value to your property.

Before deciding upon a style, it’s helpful to understand how you are looking to use your space and review the options available.

Discover the perfect suite to suit your space from leading designers including Laura Ashley, Utopia, Heritage and Roper Rhodes.

Budget Planning your bathroom project is essential - and the best place to start is by calculating your budget.

Every project will be priced differently 22

according to its specification and its size requirements. To help you along the way, we recommend contacting one of our design consultants, who will be happy to work within your own set budget, advising you on all the available options. We also offer finance packages with affordable monthly payments, subject to status.

Layout The current layout in your bathroom will form a factor in how the space can be used.

Considering the size of your space and if you have any special requirements such as integrated storage, will form a factor in your decision.

However, if you’re considering a different layout then adapting the room may lead to moving connections such as the water system which can incur additional costs.

The finishing touches to style your bathroom will often need to be functional. From mirrors to lighting and taps to towel rails we’ve got a wide selection of options and interior finishes to complete your look.

Tiles & Flooring Choosing wall and floor coverings that complete your look but are compatible for your surfaces is integral. We can supply you with a variety of wall and floor covering options in plain and patterned styles.

To book a bathroom design consultation visit our studio at Leekes Bilston contact 0333 222 4120 or online at leekes.co.uk.

Design From a sumptuous sanctuary to a family wolverhampton west magazine

FURNISH At Leekes

From statement furniture pieces to on-trend accessories, at Leekes you’ll discover inspirational additions to complete your look.

Visit us in store today or shop online and let us help you create your beautiful home.

FOR

120 YEARS 1897 – 2017

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

23

Four men and a big

m o u n ta i n

Suresh Bawa and his son, Arran, are no strangers to undertaking big challenges to raise money for a good cause.

In 2016, the father and son team reached the top of Mt Kilimanjaro, along with fellow team mates Neil Taylor, Brett Bernard and Scott Bernard and raised an incredible £60,000 for three local charities: Promise Dreams, Birmingham Children’s Hospital and The Way. This year Suresh – who is Promise Dreams founding trustee and Arran are joined by Neil Taylor and Tom Hatton and together, the group are planning on taking on their biggest challenge yet, reaching Mount Everest’s base camp, which stands at an altitude of close to 18,000ft.

With the date set for 7th October 2018 – and all proceeds to be split between Promise Dreams and Birmingham Children’s Hospital - the team are busy making preparations for their latest fundraising expedition, as Suresh explains:

“We’ve all been training hard, at least three to four times a week, walking, running, cycling and gym sessions. Arran is a personal trainer and Neil and I have been meeting up once a week since January to do a six mile walk around the Wrekin.”

Before the team even starts their ascent to base camp, where they’ll embark on 11 days of walking across tough and demanding terrain - for between six and nine hours a day - they’ll have to tackle another journey, landing at Nepal’s Lukla Airport, which is considered one of the most dangerous in the world.

“There’s no doubt that mentally and physically the challenge is a difficult one, but it’s all worth it

to know that the money we raise will help so many people.”

When Suresh established Promise Dreams 17 years ago his goal was simple: to make a difference.

“Every penny we raise on this challenge goes directly to the people who need it. Both are excellent charities and the money we raise will have an amazing impact not only on the child who needs our help but the family too.”

Birmingham Children’s Hospital is a charity that is particularly close to the heart of Neil. His daughter was treated there and he is an ambassador for the charity, raising over £118,000 to date.

And both causes do amazing work: “For Promise Dreams £15,000 is one whole month of dreams, a whole month of smiles and that’s what’s so important to us,” adds Suresh.

Here at Wolverhampton West Magazine we’ll be doing our part to support Suresh, Arran, Neil and Tom, and, you can help too.

To donate go to:

Uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ FourMenAndAMountain1 The team are looking for corporate sponsorship too, so get involved and help to make a difference.

24

wolverhampton west magazine

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Different location, same great service Wall Heath Bathrooms have built an excellent reputation over the 26 years they’ve been in business, thanks to their unwavering commitment to outstanding customer service.

Co-owner Lorraine Taylor explains: “As a family-run company we’ve placed great emphasis on quality in every aspect of our business, from the bathroom fittings we sell, the workmanship that goes in to installing them and the service that our clients receive.”

And the business has recently made their service even more personal, after relocating from their Wall Heath-based showroom to Lorraine’s home office.

“Due to circumstances beyond our control, we were unable to renew our lease, so we decided to simply run the business from my home, which is located just two minutes down the road.”

Lorraine meets clients by appointment and showcases

samples of Utopia tiles and flooring, as well as designs that are displayed on a large TV screen at the office.

removals. Our clients often remark on their friendly and polite approach, not to mention how tidy they are when they work.”

“Our bathrooms cater for all tastes and room sizes; we have extravagant, opulent designs as well as minimalist, chic suites.

Our ranges are both practical and stylish and even the tiniest of spaces can be transformed.”

And Steve and Gary work alongside a trusted electrician and tiler that they’ve used for 25 years.

Making the bathroom accessible for everyone, regardless of age or mobility is a high priority for the team.

“We have a variety of products that are ideal for customers who need an easy-to-use suite, and none of them compromise on style.”

Unlike so many other companies, Wall Heath Bathrooms undertake every aspect of design and installation: “I take care of all the design and planning and my husband, Steve – who’s a skilled engineer – goes out to measure-up in our client’s homes.”

Each bathroom installation is carried out to the highest standards by Steve and bathroom fitter, Gary: “Steve and Gary also take care of all the new installations and

26

“We have a highly skilled tiler who has been with us since day one, when he is away, no tiling work is undertaken.”

It’s no surprise then to hear that many clients return, having been so impressed with the quality of their suite and the service they received.

“We’re starting to find that some of our clients are now returning to us after 20 years, ready to choose a new bathroom.”

Many customers feel reassured that the team is always on-hand if they have any problems: “It’s rare that clients have an issue, but if they do they can contact us anytime of the day. This provides extra piece of mind, and sets us apart from other retailers.”

If you would like a free no obligation quotation please give Lorraine a call on 01384 400016 to discuss your requirements. wolverhampton west magazine

34 Enville Road, Wall Heath Kingswinford, West Midlands DY6 0JT By appointment only

A family established business since 1992.

Large enough to cope – small enough to care.

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

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

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

27

Crossword Across 6 Very cold storage cabinet (7) 7 From then, till now (5) 9 Reverse (4) 10 Made as good as new (8) 11 Image-recording device (6) 13 Speed contest (4) 15 Capital city of Italy (4) 16 Dissertation (6) 18 Type of vinegar (8) 21 Cigarette end, butt (4) 22 Mislead, hoodwink (5) 23 Distance travelled per unit of fuel (7)

Puzzle answers on page 144 Down 1 Inaccurate, untrue (5) 2 Clear or cloudy fizzy drink (8) 3 Swerve (4) 4 Inflatable rubber mattress (4) 5 Howl, shriek (7) 8 Breakout, abscond (6) 12 Inter, bury (6) 13 Print and distribute again (8) 14 Appealing, endearing (7) 17 Move, shift (5) 19 Secure (4) 20 Wind into rings (4)

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 words beginning with ‘z’ hidden in the grid? zabaglione zap zealot zecchin zelkova zeppelin zero zest zigzags zilch zillion zinc zinnia ziplock 28

zipper zither zizzled zodiac zombies zone zonking zonules zoology zoom Zumba zygote zymurgy wolverhampton west magazine

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29

Sofa Factory Outlet

At The Sofa Factory Outlet in Thomas Street, Wolverhampton, you’ll find the best value, high quality, beautiful and comfy sofas combined with the best customer service in the industry.

They now stock a fantastic range of leather sofas from Italy.

This compliments their existing handmade sofa’s that are manufactured locally in the Black Country by skilled craftsmen and guaranteed for up to 10 years.

The combination of both ranges will ensure that you will be able to choose a sofa that’s perfect for you. In addition, their “Price Promise” is your assurance that wherever you go, you won’t beat The Sofa Factory Outlet on price.

The team at the Sofa Factory Outlet understand how difficult the process of choosing a new sofa can be, so they go out of their way to provide you with all the help you’ll need to make sure you get exactly what you want. Their

20 years of experience in helping people to make the right choice combined with their unrivalled customer service, means you’ll be glad you chose them. Don’t be deceived by external appearances - the factory outlet shop in Thomas Street is a veritable Aladdin’s Cave of sofas with a huge range of styles, sizes and fabrics to choose from - and if one of them is ‘nearly’ right for you, their ‘made to measure’ service means they can alter the size,

proportions and cushion filling until it is just perfect for your needs.

The business has also supplied BBC’s hit show DIY SOS a number of times, featured in a children in need special and exhibited at the recent Grand Designs Live show at the N.E.C. Birmingham. They have worked with designers such as Laurence Llewelyn Bowen and Gabrielle Blackman, making bespoke sofas.

Here’s 10 good reasons why to choose The Sofa Factory...

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

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

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wolverhampton west magazine

As seen on...

DIY SOS

Exhibite d at Grand Designs Live Show

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

31

RECIPE

SWEET Apple Strudel

Preparation time: 20 mins Cooking time: 40-45 mins Serves: 6-8

September brings a glut of apples. Make the most of them with this delicious strudel recipe.

Ingredients • 750g/1lb 10oz Bramley apples, peeled, cored, quartered and sliced • 1½ tsp ground cinnamon • ½ unwaxed lemon, zest only • 2 tsp lemon juice • 100g/3½oz golden caster sugar • 75g/2½oz raisins • 95g/3½oz butter • 40g/1½oz white breadcrumbs 32

• 6 large sheets filo pastry • 1 tbsp icing sugar Method 1. Preheat the oven to 190C/170C Fan/Gas 5. Line a baking tray with baking parchment.

top and repeat until you have used all the filo. Layering the pastry with the melted butter helps to create flaky layers.

2. Mix the quartered apples with the cinnamon, lemon zest and juice, sugar and raisins. In a small frying pan, melt 20g/¾oz butter and fry the breadcrumbs until golden-brown, then add these to the apple mixture.

4. Place the filling along the length of the pastry along one side about 2-3cm/1in from the edge. Using the tea-towel to help you, roll the pastry up to enclose the filling. Tuck the ends in and roll the strudel seam-side down onto the lined baking sheet. Brush with the remaining melted butter.

3. Melt the remaining butter in a pan. On a clean, dry teatowel lay a sheet of the filo and brush with some of the melted butter. Lay another sheet on

5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until golden-brown. Leave to cool to room temperature and dust with icing sugar. Slice and serve with cream, ice cream or custard. wolverhampton west magazine

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

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

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

Open: Monday to Friday 9.30am until 5pm Saturday 10am until 4pm 33

Joint winners for the prestigious

“Young Citizen” award The fifth running of “Rotary’s Wolverhampton Young Citizen” Award saw a record entry of 37 with 17 year old Taranveer Khangura from Penn and 16 year old Millie Betteridge from Pendeford sharing the Title.

At the Presentation Ceremony in the Mayor’s Parlour where all eight finalists were honoured, Taranveer and Millie each received a cheque for £100.00 and a commemorative plaque. In addition their nominated charities each received a donation of £250.00 from Rotary.

Taranveer attends Wolverhampton Girls High School and is very passionate in her support for UNICEF and also volunteers at Barnardo’s and Sunrise Care Home.

She has also played badminton internationally and spends her spare time coaching the sport at school. She is also a Brownie Leader and a member of the Army Cadet Force. Next autumn she is heading off to University to

All the finalists

study medicine and when qualified she proposes to join the army.

Millie wishes to ensure that the voice of young people is heard at local and national level. She joined the Youth Council, aged 13, in 2015 and has filled a number of roles including Vice-chair and being elected a Youth MP for Wolverhampton. Millie has spent significant time encouraging other schools to join in the activities of the Youth Council which has included speaking to 6th Form assemblies and made a contribution to Youth Parliament debates and spoke passionately at the House Of Commons about a “School Curriculum for Life” focussing on life skills.

Mayor of Wolverhampton Councillor Phil Page with the winners. Taranveer was unable to attend on the night and her award was collected by her Sister Jindveer

34

Speaking on behalf of the Judging Panel, Chairman Peter Madeley (Express & Star) said that collectively this was the strongest field we have ever had with every entry matching the award’s key criteria of “going that extra mile to help others”. Picking a winner from the eight finalists was no easy task and for this reason it was decided to share the award this year.

The “Rotary Wolverhampton Young Citizen Award” is run by the city’s five Rotary Clubs, supported and sponsored by Wolverhampton West magazine, Express & Star, Waitrose, Wolverhampton City Council and Wednesfield Magazine Group.

The award is dedicated to the memory of “Rotarian Tom Warren” a former Director Education for Wolverhampton and who became President of Rotary Internationally representing the organisation just after WW2 in an advisory group set up in connection with the formation of the United Nations.

This year we were helped by promotional videos contributed

by Doreen Tipton - yes the Doreen Tipton! - Conor Coady, Wolves Captain, and Amy Nicholas, last year’s runner-up, and we are very grateful for their significant contribution. wolverhampton west magazine

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35

Quality Products and Exceptional Service at Premier Carpets and Flooring Ltd Premier Carpets and Flooring has long been the number-one choice for discerning home and business owners who are keen to find quality products and exceptional service.

Established over thirty years ago, the family-run business supplies carpets and flooring from industryleading brands from their impressive showroom, that’s located in Macrome Road, Claregate, Wolverhampton.

With something for every home interior – and budget - as well as an extensive selection of flooring which meets the demands of the commercial sector, Premier is the only place you’ll need to visit whatever your carpet and flooring requirements.

As company owner, Roy Colman explains: “Our extensive showroom displays flooring from leading brands such as Karndean and Amtico and there’s a vast range of top quality carpets from all of the big names; Cormar, Brockway, Westex, Ulster, Brintons, Kingsmead and Victoria Carpets.”

No matter what budget you’re working to, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Premier.

“We have plenty of budget carpets to choose from too, which are particularly popular with private landlords.”

As approved Karndean suppliers – and installers – Premier offers a full design and fitting service for the ever-popular flooring.

“Clients can book an appointment – free of charge - with one of our surveyors who will visit their home, measure up and provide plenty of help and advice before giving a quotation.”

“Premier’s loyal and dedicated installation teams have years of experience, many have been with us for over fifteen years and completed advanced Karndean fitting courses.”

Premier’s fitters are able to install any product sold by the company and can take care of all aspects of the installation process, including sub floor preparation, damp-proof membranes as well as floor-levelling screeds.

It’s not just domestic clients who benefit from what Premier has to offer: “We work with many businesses and regularly take on projects for all-manner of institutions, including schools, hospitals, residential homes, private businesses, HMP prison service and G4S. ” In fact, Premier have won the 3-5 year term contract with Wolverhampton University covering Wolverhampton, Telford and Walsall Campuses.

It’s no surprise that Premier are the go-to supplier for the commercial sector, not only do they supply commercial carpets, carpet tiles and safety floor vinyls - from brands such as 36

Owner, Roy Colman

Altro, Polyflor, Forbo, Heckmondwike, Interface, JHS & Rawsons - they deliver an unbeatable, ultra-efficient service, from start to finish.

That’s why companies from across the entire UK are keen to use Premier.

“Our website has been designed to be an extension of our already successful bricks and mortar business. We now offer ’supply-only’ all over the UK on our extensive range of products, you can buy online and experience great advice and impeccable service all within a few clicks.”

We provide our services to both domestic and commercial customers and specialise in all types of floor coverings including carpet rolls, carpet tiles, Luxury vinyl tiles , planks and sheet vinyl.

Independent local traders can also take advantage of Premier’s trade counter, which is situated in store.

With a team of eight office-based staff and a fleet of nine vehicles, the company is able to easily meet the demands of any flooring project.

So, why not update your home – or business – with carpets or vinyl flooring from Premier? wolverhampton west magazine

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

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

Shop online @ www.premierflooringltd.com

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

37

www.three-pines.co.uk

38

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

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

wolverhampton west magazine

domestic contracts commercial contracts Public contracts

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.

new build

The building company has over 50 years of experience in construction, covering commercial and domestic development, with many of the carpenters and bricklayers having been employed by the company for over 20 years.

The company is well established as being outstanding in its refurbishment and maintenance contracts and is considerate of the care and understanding needed when working on projects in both domestic and commercial sectors.

offering services To a diverse range of clienTs ThroughouT The uK

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

39

Wolverhampton

Open Studios 2018

Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th October

Following the huge success of last year’s Open Studios Weekend the Wolverhampton Society of Artists is doing it all again.

Open Studios weekend is a chance for artists to open their doors to the public over one weekend and possibly sell their artwork in their own home. Visitors will get the chance to glean inspiration from the artist; what inspires them, how to set up a studio, develop their own practice and how to network with other artists. Also, at some venues, 40

visitors may get the option to drink tea and eat lots of cake and it’s free.

Over thirty local artists will be opening their studios to the public and their addresses can be found on the Open Studio website.

In addition many artists will be exhibiting their work at other community venues including: • The Newhampton Arts Centre, Dunkley St, WV1 4AN • Eagle Works, Great Brick Kiln St, WV3 0PW. • Boundary Way Allotments & Community Garden, Boundary Way, WV4 4NT.

For more information contact the Open Studio website: www.wolverhamptonopenstudios.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine

Fizzog’s World Famous

dancing grannies to love the grannies and we’ve been asked to dance in all sorts of different settings.”

Jacky, along with fellow grannies – and Fizzog Production founders – Sue Hawkins and Deb Nicholls, have performed at weddings, private parties, store openings, carnivals, festivals, corporate functions, on the high street and even on stage in front of thousands of people at events like the 2017 Formula 1 Grand Prix in Bahrain.

And, the grannies have bumped into a few celebrities along the way too.

“We met Lewis Hamilton at the Grand Prix and it’s fair to say that he loved us.”

There’s no better way to get a party started than with a visit from Fizzog’s loveable Dancing Grannies, a gang of Black Country pensioners who like to get down and boogie, wherever they please.

The grannies boast a choice of laughter-inducing dance styles, which include Burlesque, River Dance, African and Bhangra routines and they are even

Guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face, the group are always in high-demand and have been busy dancing their way around the globe to surprise unsuspecting crowds, at all kinds of events, with the hilarious – and energetic dance moves they’ve become famous for.

As one third of the act, Jacky Fellows explains: “We’ve had an amazing time bringing The Dancing Grannies act to people of all ages – and cultures – around the world. Everyone seems

happy to keep in character and stay and mingle with your guests after the dancing is done if you’d like.

But, when they’re not busy with their granny alteregos, the Dudley-based trio are still entertaining audiences with their comedy sketch shows, murder mystery nights, Black Country Victorian Panto and parody production, The Wicked Wizzard of Fizzog, which is on at Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre on 17th November 2018.

“The Dancing Grannies are just a small part of what we do, they just so happen to have captured the imagination of people of all ages and cultures around the world,” adds Jacky.

So, why not introduce your guests to the grannies and make your special event truly memorable this year?

For more information call or text us on 07757 424618 or info@thefizzogs.com www.thefizzogs.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

41

a company to be proud of!

Fully qualified ‘Gas Safe’ registered engineers will then make installation effortless and ensure peace of mind - all at a very reasonable price.

Proud to be agents of Rangemaster Cookers and Refrigeration, along with top manufacturers, Hotpoint, Bosch, Siemens and Miele; Capital bring the latest and most stylish appliances to your locale.

Boasting almost 50 years of trading history is impressive, brothers Clive and Patrick Baker have a company to be proud of: Capital Appliances is a trusted, respected and long established family-run business, specialising in high quality white goods.

Formed initially at modest premises in Oxley, the extremely successful organisation has expanded rapidly over the years, and now incorporates five outlets, which span both Shropshire and the West Midlands. Shrewsbury, Telford, Kingswinford, Wolverhampton and a large central warehouse open to the public in Claregate.

Always committed to quality, a visit to the central warehouse at Claregate reveals top branded products at spectacular prices. With a display of over 250 built-in ovens, hobs, laundry, refrigeration and cleaning appliances; as well as expertly trained staff on hand to offer impartial advice, every customer experiences only the best in both product and service.

As members of Europe’s largest electrical buying group, Euronics, Capital has the same purchasing power as any one of the high street’s chain stores.

Excitingly, a new and very exclusive range is on sale also, Blomberg. Available in Europe, the Blomberg brand is on a mission to be in harmony with every aspect of life and creates products with technological, practical and environmentally friendly features and aesthetic design, which all come with a three year warranty.

Low energy washers, dishwashers, refrigeration and soon to be available built-in ovens and hobs, make up the extensive range, all carrying a very impressive three year warranty.

Recently acknowledged for their standards of excellence, Blomberg have been presented with European awards for creating the most energy efficient fridge freezers on the market and currently offering three years warranty and five years warranty on built-in appliances.

The team at Capital are determined to provide a superior and extensive service, as owner Patrick explains: “We offer the complete package and as a result have thousands of satisfied customers. With many internet companies going into administration and letting people down, here at Capital we aim to be ‘hands on’.”

“The staff are there to help, guide and advise - we recommend Capital and so do many others.”

With a reputation for being the best in the business, Capital offer something really special and as Patrick concludes, “the journey is a must to a firm that you can trust.”

Making maximum savings available to all customers, end of line and boxed-blemished items are available at bargain prices. But rest assured, purchasing from a store that is passionate about its products, means that they all come with a full warranty.

Bulk buy and special trade discounts rival that of any internet company and Capital are always keen for a deal to be struck. With stock changing on a regular and even daily basis, a good buy is certainly waiting to be had.

Once you have found what you wanted, a same day local delivery service is on offer to get your new purchase into your home as quickly as possible.

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wolverhampton west magazine

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43

Encephalitis is a devastating condition, sometimes referred to as a ‘thief’.

Inspired by the beautiful Ava Akers, and wanting to help sick children and families - Ava’s Angels has been established in order to help others.

Ava’s Story...

Ava, who lived in Shropshire with her family, was a perfectly healthy and beautiful 3 year old girl, enjoying every aspect of life, who unexpectedly fell ill on holiday in March 2017.

Ava and her parents had a perfect holiday and were about to fly home to share these memories.

Ava contracted an extremely rare form of the very common Epstein Barr Virus (EBV),

The charity has been awarded a one year partnership with Sainsbury’s Perton, as Sainsbury’s Local Charity of the year.

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an acute illness which impacted her brain (EBV Encephalitis). Many of us will have had EBV, however, neurologists cannot explain why this virus impacted Ava so badly.

Whilst there is no immunisation against it, no treatment to stop the impact or to cure it, all options were exhausted to give Ava the best possible chance of recovery.

Sadly, Ava passed away on the 29th July 2017 after a long battle by her loved ones to keep her with them. Inspired by Ava, and wanting to help other children, Ava’s Angels (Registered Charity Number. 1179168) was established in March 2018 and provides support to families of sick children during hospital stays, helping them to spend more time caring for their child.

Ava on holiday in the Maldives, March 2017

wolverhampton west magazine

Congratulations to us…

We are proud to be celebrating 21 years of teaching music at Lower Street in Tettenhall.

The Midland Music Academy – School of ROCK! Is a nonprofit organisation in Tettenhall, Wolverhampton. Situated just three miles from the city centre, the academy is rich in educational opportunities, providing students with a vibrant musical setting that blends the best of traditional and modern styles. Opening its doors in July 1997 Directors Darren Guest and Lynn Barton have together

made the academy one of the leading music schools in the UK, with a wide range of musical instruments to have lessons on and all in a vibrant surrounding.

Our distinguished faculty of musician-scholars have brought distinction to the school over the years, building a foundation for developing informed musicians and productive scholars of the 21st century.

Our amazing teachers form the backbone of the academy, with many of them leaders in their fields and recipients of national and university awards as well as teaching qualifications.

Whether it’s keyboard, drums,

piano, guitar, saxophone or music theory you want to learn, the academy is registered with all major examination boards and if required, recognised grades can be taken.

At our music school, we pride ourselves on having all the modern professional equipment to have lessons on. We tailor towards the student, from beginners, experienced players to budding professionals from the ages of 7 years to adult!

Starting lessons at the Academy is easy, no previous experience is necessary and lessons can be taken on individual or a group basis on some instruments.

For those who don’t have instruments at home, lessons at the Academy will be the highlight of the week! The lessons are based on what students require, helping to learn everything from Beethoven to The Beatles. Lessons are taught on both electric and acoustic instruments giving students a complete knowledge.

Call today on 01902 747676 or visit our website www.midlandmusic.org www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

45

Doorsmart

open up with style Doorsmart utilise the latest advances in composite door technology to offer customers the very best in design and quality of composite fibreglass doors.

Their policy is to manufacture a composite door of the highest specification and quality and to provide a personal service to meet the needs of their customers.

Why not visit their new showroom which has a large display of composite doors in a wide range of colours, together with glass styles, furniture and accessories. Have a browse around at your leisure, no appointment is necessary on Monday to Friday, Saturday’s by appointment only.

Their helpful staff can advise you on the benefits of the composite door range and help you choose the best door for your needs.

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wolverhampton west magazine

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

47

South Staffs Golf Club in charitable mood

Richard Hilton, South Staffs Golf Club Captain for 2017/18 season, presenting a cheque to Rob Williams, representative from The Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham Charity.

The funds will be used for the recently established Sarcoma team within the Oncology department which is working on problems resulting from previous radiotherapy treatment patients have received.

Richard would like to thank everyone for supporting his charity throughout his captaincy which raised a fantastic amount of ÂŁ1612.50 making up a total donation of ÂŁ2500.00.

Bees, Bugs & Butterflies Although they may not always be looking their best once the spring flowers are over, the wildflower meadows in Bantock Park are playing their role with regard to the environment.

A healthy meadow can be home to as many as 140 species of flower

and along with the correct combination of grass species provide habitat for over a thousand insect species, many of them vital for pollination.

The newest one here was developed in autumn 2016 with the guidance of the Birmingham & Black Country Wildlife Trust.

Using half of the pitchand-putt course, it was strewn with species-rich hay from a flourishing South Staffordshire meadow, chosen not only for its mix of flowers, but also its particular variety of grasses.

The Friends of Bantock Museum & Park raise funds to support the Council in ensuring that it remains attractive and interesting for visitors at all times of the year. For more information go to bantockfriends@ virginmedia.com or Tel: 01902 331272

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wolverhampton west magazine

No job too big or too small

For more than a decade local family-run business S.Parton Building Maintenance Ltd has been meeting the needs of domestic and commercial clients alike thanks to its extensive and dedicated property maintenance service.

Taking care of everything from a broken lock to a complete refurbishment, the Finchfield-based company – which has more than 40 years of experience in the building trade - is on-hand to tackle any property maintenance problem no matter how large or small.

Boasting an experienced, highly qualified and fully insured team of long-serving tradesmen, S.Parton have earned an excellent reputation in the trade and are always busy undertaking work for local housing associations, schools and offices, some of which require a 24/7 emergency attendance, as well as homeowners across Wolverhampton.

When it comes to domestic customers, S.Parton has established an exceptionally loyal clientbase, thanks to its commitment to offering outstanding service and highly competitive rates.

As director, Steve Parton, explains: “We are a onestop-shop for property maintenance. We’re more than happy to take on small jobs, such as fixing leaks, replacing failed double glazing and any other maintenance issues including insurance work.

But, we’re also adept at sorting out the bigger jobs too and our team can take care of everything from re-roofing to electrical, plumbing and heating problems to bathroom and kitchen installations.”

Decorating, tiling and laying carpets and vinyl are all part of the services S.Parton offer.

“Our maintenance service covers plenty of external jobs; gardens, driveways, fencing and exterior decorating. We literally take care of everything from A-Z when it comes to property maintenance.”

Steve is passionate about the business and customer satisfaction is of the utmost importance.

“We really pride ourselves on the work we do for every one of our clients. We have a really good relationship with our customers and find that many call us back time and time again.”

The company are fully insured and every quote that’s provided is detailed and accurate.

“We work to the highest standards and ensure that every customer receives the best service,” adds Steve.

So, don’t put off attending to those jobs in your home any longer, call in the professionals at S.Parton Buildings Maintenance Ltd today.

Tel: 01902 421764 / 07773 346701 Finchfield Gardens, Finchfield, Wolverhampton WV3 9LT www.spartonconstruction.co.uk

Father and son team Steve and Daniel Parton www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

49

Animal Healer restoring equilibrium to pet and pet parents’ lives After lots of studying, many assignments and case studies as well as experience in rescue centres, I’m now a graduate of the Healing Animals Organisation, a qualified registered and fully insured Animal Healer and Relax HAO Canine massage therapist.

I specialise in pet problems with no two days ever being the same, some days I may be helping an anxious cat or depressed dog, other days I may be working with a parrot that’s pulling out her feathers or a rabbit that has behavioural issues.

Every day is different and I’m so fortunate to be able to help animals feel happier and also pet parents too. I make new furry friends along the way and really enjoy my time with the animals, however challenging it can sometimes be.

As an animal healer I work with energy healing, which is a natural complementary therapy that is non-invasive and has no side effects. It benefits an animal on an emotional level as well as a physical level. All animals can benefit from energy healing, it works holistically on the whole animal rather than individual symptoms. Energy healing promotes deep relaxation and helps restore equilibrium. In this

deep state of relaxation, the body is able to heal itself naturally, I believe that a lot of doctors and vets will tell you that the greatest healer of all can often be the body itself.

I have had some amazing experiences on this journey so far, I have formed close bonds with so many animals and with some species that I would never have expected to feel so close to.

Whilst studying I was fortunate enough to be able to work with all kinds of animals but those that will hold a special place in my heart forever are two little rats who had

been rescued from abuse by a wonderful lady, who they were now having a fantastic life with. I settled them with me and began to start the treatment, they readily absorbed the energy healing and stretched out, rolled, yawned and with a big sigh they lay deeply relaxed curled up together basking in and absorbing the healing energy that I was channelling.

It’s wonderful to be able to make a real difference to the animals and their humans so that they can live happily together enjoying life as they should.

It is important to note that this is complementary to veterinary care and not a substitute. An animal with a physical condition should always be seen by a veterinarian in the first instance.

Libby Williams MHAO AHDip, Animal Healer & Holistic Therapist.

Tel: 07966 639671

www.libbywilliams.co.uk 50

wolverhampton west magazine

GUTTER GUARDS INSTALLED

House roof cleaning (including moss), gutter cleaning inside and out, full house exterior cleans, pure water window cleaning.

For a free no obligation quote call Richard on 01902 822452 or 07792 359262

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53

Grand Theatre COMPETITION With songs by Grammy® and Tony® winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, the West End, Broadway and international smash hit musical KINKY BOOTS takes you from the factory floor to the glamorous catwalks of Milan.

For the first time ever on tour in the UK, KINKY BOOTS comes to Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from 16 – 27 October and we have a pair of tickets to give away to the press night on Wednesday 17 October!

Charlie Price is struggling to live up to his father’s expectations and continue the family business of Price & Son. With the shoe factory’s future hanging in the balance, help arrives in the unlikely but spectacular form of Lola - a fabulous performer in need of some sturdy new stilettos.

Callum Francis will be putting on the boots to play Lola following

his award winning and critically acclaimed performances in Australia. He is also joined by Paula Lane as Lauren, best known for her role as Kylie Platt in Coronation Street and West End star Joel Harper-Jackson will play Charlie.

Inspired by true events, this joyous story of Brit grit to high-heeled hit is the ‘Freshest, most fabulous, feel-good musical of the decade’ - The Hollywood News. It’s the ultimate fun night out for you and your loved ones, so book now and experience the energy, joy and laughter of this dazzling show.

To book tickets book online at grandtheatre.co.uk, call 01902 42 92 12 or visit the Box Office in person.

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 Monday 8th October 2018.

The music for KINKY BOOTS is by which award winning pop artist?

A. Cher B. ABBA C. Kylie Minogue D. Cyndi Lauper 54

Competition Terms and Conditions Entries to be received no later than Monday 8th October 2018. Winners to collect tickets from the box office on the evening of the performance.

Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash or alternative prize nights available. Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity.

wolverhampton west magazine

Black Country Firewood

Quality logs, excellent service Black Country Firewood has been supplying and delivering high quality logs throughout the West Midlands, and its surrounding areas, since 2012.

The company - that’s based on a farm in the picturesque village of Bobbington, South Staffordshire - prides itself on supplying quality firewood at a fair price.

They deliver to a wide variety of areas, within a 14 mile radius, including: Kinver, Wollaston, Stourbridge, Lye, Kingswinford, Wombourne, Enville, Bridgnorth, Pattingham and Wolverhampton.

They are always happy to travel outside of the area if required.

“On Saturday October 6th 2018 between 10am to 2pm, we will be hosting our annual open day. As last years proved to be such a success, we look forward to opening our doors once again to customers old and new. The open day is an exciting opportunity to visit our Firewood Centre to learn about the wide range of products that we have to offer.”

“Industry experts including our own firewood technicians, HETAS registered stove installers, NACS registered chimney sweeps and the fire brigade will be on hand to answer any questions. There will also be several local stove suppliers showcasing the latest in wood burning technology with live demonstrations” added Michael.

The company has proved to be a great success, with orders for logs being placed all year round.

Michael says: “Over recent months, we have been busy processing, drying and grading the firewood ready for the winter ahead. We are now fully stocked with dry logs ready to deliver to your doorstep!

Richard Clarke and Michael Snelson

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

SATURDAY OCTOBER 6TH 2018 - 10am to 2pm Come and join us for a complimentary drink and slice of pizza from our very own wood fired oven!

Keep an eye on our Facebook page and our website blog for more information on the open day, hints and tips, and special offers.

Suppliers of high quality firewood Shop and buy online

www.blackcountryfirewood.co.uk

or visit us at

Salters Hall Farm Bobbington, Stourbridge, DY7 5DX * pack includes:

1 x Huge Bag Kiln Dried Logs 2 x Nets of Kindling Sticks 1 x 24 Natural Firelighters 1 x Box Matches

Only £109

*

Contact us today...

01384 884481 or 07791 438389 @thefirewoodshed www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

blackcountryfirewood 55

Autumn C o l o u r

As we approach autumn there’s a lovely range of herbaceous perennials still giving colour to the garden.

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

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

Heuchera have lovely coloured foliage all year round from lime green, through copper and bronze and the lovely purple shades. They’re easy to grow – ideal in sun or semi shade and are not damaged by slugs and snails.

Another good one is Echinacea with their brightly coloured flowers and prominent centres.

but tulips can be planted later – through into November if the weather is mild. When planting in tubs put several layers of bulbs in first starting with daffodils then the smaller bulbs and finally plant pansies, violas or wallflowers last. You’ll get a longer flowering period in the spring and full pots.

In the vegetable patch, start to harvest onions and potatoes now – lift up onions and allow them to dry out where they’ve been growing if the weather is fine, before storing. Potatoes should be stored in a cool but frost-free environment. Continue to pick runner beans and courgettes on a regular basis, so that they don’t become stringy and tough.

Buy prepared hyacinth bulbs for Christmas flowering and plant them in bowls with Bulb Compost by mid-September.

Bulb fibre contains charcoal which helps to keep the compost ‘sweet’ whilst the bulbs are in the dark. Give them a drink and put in a cool, dark place, bringing gradually into the light and warmth once the shoots are approx. 3cm high.

Replant cleared borders with winter pansies, violas, sweet williams and wallflowers. Spring flowering bulbs should be available from the August Bank Holiday, most bulbs can be planted as soon as you get them,

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Tel 01902 700209 www.lealansgardencentre.co.uk Bridgnorth Road, Shipley, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7EZ 56

wolverhampton west magazine

THE NATURAL BENEFITS OF HEDGING

By Andi Way, Garden Designer, at Boningale Garden Creations

A key role for a garden designer is to advise on what kind of materials and plants are appropriate for your garden, and an element that shouldn’t be overlooked is the boundary or internal screening.

Wooden fences and trellis screens are the most commonly used options; however, walls, railings and hedging are also good alternatives.

Wherever possible I like to explore the possibility of using a suitable hedge, evergreen, semi-evergreen or deciduous. These plants can create a really beautiful garden backdrop, while also offering protection from the elements, privacy and habitats for wildlife, and security.

Natural hedging also suits properties of all ages and sizes, creating either a traditional or contemporary style.

Dependent on the style of garden you wish to create, a hedge can be used in many ways: to provide a warm natural atmosphere in a country garden, soften the surroundings of a city garden or add structure to a modern garden. A hedge can also be a useful screen for those areas you might want to hide from view in your garden.

Plus, what many people don’t realise is that you can buy hedging in all growth forms, from 1 year old whips that are about as thick as a pencil, up to a fully mature 2.0

metre hedge varying according to your garden aspect and soil condition. Available varieties include native, exotic, flowering, evergreen and fruit-bearing.

In terms of upkeep (one of the biggest questions), all hedging will require some form of maintenance, at the very least pruning, but it will depend on the varieties you choose (and for me a twice-yearly clip outweighs the chore and expense of painting a fence). Our advice would be to do your research before you buy or contact our award-winning garden design team for help.

The best time to plant hedging The optimum hedge planting season runs from November through to March/April, at this time of year you can also buy your hedging plants more cost effectively as bare root or rootballed, depending on the variety and the size you are looking for. Containerised options are also available year round.

Visit us at www.boningale-garden-creations.co.uk or call us on 01902 376500.

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

@boningalegarden

57

Dudley Building Society

celebrates 160 years

with Society Anniversary Saver

Members at the Society’s AGM in July 2018

Dudley Building Society is this year marking its 160th birthday with the release of a new Society Anniversary Saver.

This celebratory product is a staple of the momentous journey the Society has been on to reach 160 years of age and symbolises its most successful year to date. The Society Anniversary Saver offers a 1.6% variable interest rate on a maximum input of £600 per month. All members of the Society are encouraged to celebrate and save with this latest product offering.

As one of 42 building societies in the UK, Dudley Building Society is encapsulated in the traditions of a true mutual – supporting its members to save and own their own homes for the last 160 years.

At the end of its first operational year in 1858, the Society had acquired 64 members and attracted £574 in deposits - £330 of which was loaned out as mortgages. This year, the Society has recently announced record business performance of £1.5m pre-tax profit and assets exceeding £400m.

These figures put into perspective just how far the Society has grown, preserving its traditional roots where members are anchored at the heart of the business, just as they were 160 years ago. Year end feedback with independent review platform Smart Money People resulted in an overall satisfaction rating of 98% from Society members.

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The Dudley is also categorised as one of the top 25 businesses to work for in the Midlands.

With such positive outcomes acquired from all areas of the business, The Dudley is ready to embrace the next 160 years.

For more information about our new regular saver or to discuss other saving options, please call one of our friendly team on 01384 231414, or visit one our local branches:

Brierley Hill 107 High Street, Brierley Hill, DY5 3AU

Dudley Dudley House, Stone Street, Dudley, DY1 1NP

Gornal Wood 20 Abbey Road, Gornal Wood, Dudley, DY3 2PG

Kingswinford 1 Townsend Place, Kingswinford, DY6 9JL

Perton 6 Anders Square, Perton, WV6 7QH

www.dudleybuildingsociety.co.uk DudleyBuildingSociety @DudleyBS

wolverhampton west magazine

Celebrate our 160th Birthday with the NEW Regular Saver Society Anniversary Saver Minimum Opening Balance

Maximum Opening Balance

£100

£600

Save Up To

Annual Variable Interest %AER*

£600

1.60%

per calendar month

*AER stands for the Annual Equivalent Rate and illustrates what the interest rate would be if interest was paid and added each year.

Please see product leaflet for full details

01384 231414 Branch offices: Brierley Hill

|

Dudley

|

Gornal Wood

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

|

Kingswinford

|

Perton 59

From Smoke To Signals

By Tom Hancock

to Smartphones!

Have you ever wondered what life was like before smartphones?

One of the oldest forms of long distance communication is smoke signals, used in both Ancient China and by Native Americans to warn of enemy attacks.

Then there were carrier or homing pigeons, which are birds that have been bred to find their way home over immensely long distances. A short message was written on a small piece of paper which was inserted into a small metal canister and attached to the leg of a pigeon. They were mainly used by the military and were

a surprisingly accurate and effective way of communicating during battle.

In 1837, two sets of inventors simultaneously developed an electrical telegraph: Wheatstone and Cooke in England, and Samuel Morse in the United States. Morse and an assistant developed a new signalling alphabet using dots and dashes that became the standard for telegraph communication. By 1861, this Morse telegraph system connected the West and East coasts of America, and put the Pony Express (a mail-delivery service which had connected communities across the vastness of the United States) out of business.

As technology improved, the telegraph became an audio transponder, where messages were translated based on the interval between two clicks.

Alexander Graham Bell is commonly credited as the inventor of the telephone,

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though in fact many individuals contributed to the devices we use today but it was Bell who filed the patent in 1876 for an “apparatus for transmitting vocal or other sounds telegraphically” The earliest textbased machine was the fax machine. It’s been around since the 1880s, though it only achieved commercial success in 1966, when Xerox introduced the Magnafax Telecopier. This behemoth weighed over 20Kg and sent digital versions of documents through phone lines via a series of dial tones.

The fax machine became popular with business and in newsrooms because it allowed people to send documents across the world in a matter of minutes, replacing courier mail services and telegrams.

In 1973, Motorola produced the first ‘mobile’ phone, which weighed over 2Kg! Today, we’ve come a long way from those oversized devices and have access to phones that weigh around the same as a bar of chocolate, and slip easily into our pockets.

With the advent of the Internet came ‘Instant Messaging’. ICQ was the first stand-alone instant messenger.

This was the first centralized service which allowed individual user profiles. It was the grandfather of all other instant messaging services.

Today we use our mobiles for much more than talking. On average we spend just 6 minutes per day talking on the phone, but more than 26 minutes texting!

Originally, we had to type out every letter according to the numerical keypad on our mobile devices.

Now we have full QWERTY touch screen keyboards with predictive text and autocorrect capabilities that make it easier than ever to communicate. How amazing is that? wolverhampton west magazine

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

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

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

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

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

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

Offering a professional and highly efficient service, the iSky team are able to fly their drones to most locations and capture footage quickly and effectively, providing clients – which include housing associations, architects and estate agents and the general public – with all the material they need in either photo or video form.

“Our drones are regularly employed to inspect hard-to-reach areas of buildings, like chimneys and roofs, because they eliminate the need for costly scaffolding as well as reducing time scales.”

Both domestic and commercial clients alike have used iSky’s drones to diagnose and

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

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

Of course, the drones can be used for creative projects too and are perfect for a special event.

“We can provide raw footage or edit it to create a unique piece of media that’ll capture the magic from a different perspective.” iSky’s aerial video and photography is just what you need for getting some amazing shots of your pride and joy, whether that’s your property, car or boat and makes an ideal gift for any occasion.

“Automotive and marine photography is a real passion of ours and we’ve captured footage that showcases the beauty of all sorts of vehicles for our clients. We’ve made videos that are specifically designed for selling a vehicle too,” adds Daniel.

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

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W i n t e r Ch i l l s

Acc l a i med ghost stor y author returns to terrify audiences again A G Smith will be appearing at: Penkridge Library October 23rd. Tickets are on sale now: 01785 854100.

Kinver Library November 6th. Tickets on sale now: 01384 872348 Codsall Library December 11th: Tickets on sale now: 01902 5060606

An Evening of Delectable Terror will be performed at:

A G Smith has been entertaining audiences with readings of his ghost stories for the last ten years.

These events have regularly sold out and become a yearly date in the diary for anyone who enjoys a good scare in the traditional mould of M.R James and Charles Dickens.

In 2017 A G Smith wrote the acclaimed ‘An Evening of Delectable Terror’ which went on to perform in front of packed theatres in Birmingham and London, drawing praise from Legendary Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant and bestselling fantasy fiction author Robin Jarvis.

In 2018 A G Smith has written a new play ‘The Walpurgisnacht Hauntings’ which will tour extensively throughout the Midlands including a run of dates in Birmingham, before returning to London.

Now audiences in Penkridge, Kinver and Codsall have the chance to meet the author and hear him read one of his ghost stories.

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‘When I began writing ghost stories I had no idea that they would prove to be so popular with audiences. I’ve been asked many times what I think the reason for this is, and I honestly believe there is nothing as powerful as hearing a story read aloud. It allows the audience to fill in the gaps with their own imaginations, and that pulls them down terrifying roads that a visual presentation couldn’t possibly achieve. I always believe in horror that less is more. The ghosts in my stories are fleetingly described, and that makes them far more disturbing. We try to achieve the same affect with the stage production. There are audio visual effects but they are used sparingly. A sense of tension is already building as the audience arrives and when the lights go down you can hear a pin drop. The same happens during the readings, slowly the sense of dread is heightened until eventually you will hear the whole audience scream out loud.’

Tudor House Museum: September 29th: 01905 612309 Broom Village Hall: November 2nd: 07903 362218

The Walpurgisnacht Hauntings will be performed at: The Old Joint Stock Theatre Birmingham: 29th & 30th October: 0121 2001892

Further tour dates for 2018 can be found at: www.weepingbankproductions.co.uk

You can also visit their Facebook page: Search for: Weeping Bank

Or follow them on Twitter: @WeepingBank

For more information about A G Smith’s work please follow the author on Twitter: @harvesterOTnow wolverhampton west magazine

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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A member of the Guild of Q Butchers Quite simply, this means that Allan Bennett is one of the best butchers in Britain. Quality is our number one priority, and we are committed to preserving the skills passed down through generations of traditional craftsmen.

At Allan Bennett’s we produce all our products using the best English meat, which is bought from Bridgnorth market every Tuesday.

This means that all of our meat has full traceability, and guarantees you top quality meat from local farmers.

In short, you can’t buy better!

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

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

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wolverhampton west magazine

Children take over market...

Penkridge Market will be allowing children to have the ‘run of the show’ on Sunday the 30th September, when they host a fantastic Children’s Market.

The Market will be entirely dedicated to children, with over 60 stall holders anticipated, selling everything from nearly new children’s clothes to toys and handmade crafts. The majority of stalls will be undercover in the indoor market, making it a great day out whatever the weather.

The event will run from 10am to 3pm, and with free admission for children and only £2 for adults, it’s a fantastic value day out for all the family.

There will be a free craft area, where children can have a go at making their own puppets to use in the Market’s very own puppet theatre.

There will be a children’s entertainer on hand to ensure the children are constantly captivated, with his magic tricks, balloon modelling and Punch and Judy shows. The local fire service will be making a visit with their ever-popular Fire Engine. Roger Dennis will be bringing his model Land Rover along and if the children still have lots of energy to burn, there will be a bouncy castle, slide and fun fair.

Erica Scriven from Toddler Sense Stafford, who proved very popular at the April event, will also be there again, doing toddler sense taster sessions.

If you prefer a more calming activity, the ‘Farm on Wheels’ will be there with lots of animals to meet and rabbits to cuddle.

For further information please telephone 01785 714221 or log onto the website w w w. p e n k r i d g e m a r k e t . c o . u k

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

If you would like to attend the event, Penkridge Market is situated off the A449 in Penkridge.

It is easily accessible from Junctions 12 & 13 of the M6 (postcode ST19 5AS).

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From Motor City to Our City

s n o s k c a J e h T

After wowing fans with a stellar headlining performance at Cheshire’s Rewind Festival on August 4, Motown marvels The Jacksons took time off from their European summer tour to visit Wolverhampton and reconnect with old friend and owner of The Mount Hotel Country Manor Roy Bernard and his sons Scott and Brett.

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Needless to say the answer to where the band would stay for the duration of their visit was as easy as ABC: Wolverhampton’s only AA rated 4 star hotel.

The family band, which made Michael Jackson a star, now

consists of original Jackson 5 members Jackie, Jermaine, Tito and Marlon, who are all famous for their fantastically upbeat songs and soulful ballads. Tito Jackson has long standing ties to the city through his relationship with longtime friend, management team

wolverhampton west magazine

member and Wolverhampton resident, Lawson Slater and he was keen to explore local hotspots with his brothers during the visit.

The Bernard family showed the Jacksons, as well as their entourage, around local attractions which included Bridgnorth and a VIP tour of West Midlands Safari Park, where they got to hand-feed white tigers.

Mr Bernard, a patron of The Way Youth Centre in School Street, also arranged for the brothers to visit the project which opened in 2016 to give youngsters access to vital age-specific support facilities.

Roy Bernard said, “It was the highlight of the trip to see the children’s faces at The Way – the entertainment they lined up was exceptional.”

It also proved popular with the visiting VIPs: Jermaine Jackson said, “Visiting The Way and our friends at The Mount was so relaxing. We are looking forward to coming back to Tettenhall again soon.” And, as we all know, when Jermaine – or any of the Jacksons for that matter – says “I’ll be there” he really means it.

The band also found time to party at Roy Bernard’s House, allowing everyone to reminisce over some of the Jacksons’ amazing life stories.

How much had to do with the King of Pop is anyone’s guess but one thing’s for sure, this family is packing some serious star-power.

Of course, none of this proves too intimidating for The Mount Hotel: it is, after all, well practised in dealing with heavyweights of every kind, as General Manager Neil Wyatt explains: “Over the past three months The Mount has welcomed heavyweight champion of the world, Anthony Joshua; Beverly Knight and now the Jacksons. So who is next?!

“It’s so satisfying because it shows that all our hard work in creating Wolverhampton’s premier hotel and function venue is paying off.”

Of course regulars at The Mount are already well aware that the family-owned business offers the best in accommodation, the finest food and the highest quality service – the hotel’s 4 star AA rating says all this best of all. The Mount’s restaurant has long held the accolade of being a 2 star AA Rosette restaurant as well.

So whatever you have planned – a bite to eat in the restaurant, a business conference or even your wedding day – this beautiful Grade II listed hotel always fits the bill and thanks to its £3.5million ongoing investment plan, you’ll never be short on style or substance.

One visit and it’s a case of: never can say goodbye.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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T: 01902 752055 F: 01902 745263 E: sales@themount.co.uk W: www.themount.co.uk The Mount Hotel, Mount Road, Wolverhampton, WV68HL TheMountHotelWolverhampton www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Bumper Harvest at

Halfpenny Green Wi n e E s t a t e With harvest well underway, the winemaking team at Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, situated near Wombourne, are anticipating one of the best English grape crops ever, thanks – for once – to the Great British summer!

Harvesting at English vineyards usually takes place during September, but can sometimes run as late as October and even into November if temperatures dip during the summer. But, thanks to a heatwave and consistently high temperatures, the team at Halfpenny Green are expecting a record year for the 30-acre site, producing high quality grapes which will eventually become the 2018 vintage of wines.

The giant strides the English wine industry has been making in recent years certainly shows at the Estate, with new projects and expansion always at the forefront of the growing enterprise. The latest addition to the site is a tasting balcony, due for completion in the early autumn, which will expand the three-tier shop’s Wine Loft area, offering incredible views over the rolling hills of the South Staffordshire countryside. The Wine Loft, constructed in 2015, is home to Halfpenny Green’s own range of thirteen award-winning wines, plus a selection of beers, ciders and spirits, including over 90 British gins from artisan distillers. The wines and gins are available to sample, but for the true connoisseur, both Wine

Tasting and Gin Tasting Experiences are available for individuals, couples and small groups.

Another recent expansion at the Estate took place in January earlier this year, where the central area of the restaurant was refurbished and expanded to include a light and airy dining area, with fantastic views over the vines.

This Christmas the new-look restaurant will be serving up old favourites throughout the December period with their traditional Christmas Fayre Menu. Available from the 2nd – 24th December, the team of chefs cook each meal fresh to order and will be creating a wonderful festive offering, from classic Christmas roasts to tastefully tantalising desserts, there’s something to satisfy any appetite. The Christmas Fayre menu is a favourite of diners both new and returning, so booking in advance is certainly advised.

After satisfying your stomach, be sure to visit the shop for a whole host of gifts perfect for the impending festive season. From personalised bottles of wine, to custom boxes of chocolates; from bespoke-made gift hampers, to

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wheels of British and European cheeses, there’s sure to be something available to suit even the fussiest of family and friends.

The shop staff are always on hand to advise, and will happily assist you in putting together a special gift hamper (even building and gift wrapping it for you), or thinking up the perfect personalised message to print on the front of a bottle of one of the Estate’s wines, labelling it up in just a few minutes while you wait!

The site is also home to a Craft Centre, featuring 15 independent businesses, perfect if you’re looking to get a gift commissioned, or introduce someone to a new hobby. The Centre is also home to WILD Zoological Park, purpose-built from the ground up, which features a range of animals from all over the world, in an educational experience with a strong emphasis on preservation.

There’s certainly plenty to do in South Staffordshire this autumn, but to experience one of its true hidden gems, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate should be top of your list. w w w. h a l f p e n n y g re e n . c o . u k . wolverhampton west magazine

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

AWARD-WINNING ENGLISH WINES

Shop, Deli & Wine Loft

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U P COM I NG E V E N TS GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

BRAND NEW TASTING BALCONY

CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN

For a range of experiences, including wine and gin tastings, tours and high teas.

Due for completion early autumn. Enjoy award-winning wines overlooking the vineyard.

Christmas Fayre Menu available 2nd - 24th December.

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

73

The Oakley Arms Brewood

Sitting on the outskirts of Brewood, our pub is well within the hearts of locals who drop by on horseback, bicycle or with their dogs during countryside rambles.

We like to think of ourselves as a charming pub with well-spaced rooms, wooden floors and roaring fires: a well-stocked bat at the centre of all things and of course a beautiful garden room filled with light.

Book Your

Christmas at The Oakley

We are taking bookings for small intimate tables or larger parties

2 course or 3 course menu available

From Friday 30th November until Monday 31st December (excluding Christmas Day)

Visit www.brunningandprice.co.uk/oakley to book

For New Years Eve bookings

Please call 01902 859800 (no bookings will be taken on-line)

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

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

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wolverhampton west magazine

Introducing the very first

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CIRCUS THEMED CHRISTMAS FROM STILT WALKERS TO FIRE BREATHERS, ANGLE GRINDING FLOOR SHOWS TO ACROBATS, STAGE HYPNOTISTS & LIVE SHOW SINGERS. WITH THE CHRISTMAS BROCHURE NOW OUT AND THE DATES AND SHOWS RELEASED, WE ARE ALREADY SELLING TICKETS TO WHAT WILL BE THE BIGGEST AND BEST CHRISTMAS AT THE PARK HOUSE YET. FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO GET A COPY OF OUR BROCHURE AND SHOW DATES CALL NOW ON 01952 460128 OR EMAIL EVENTS@PARKHOUSEHOTEL.NET

Book Now Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Year’s Eve Live Entertainment every Friday & Saturday from 9pm throughout December FOR MORE INFORMATION ON Christmas Fayre menu being OUR CHRISTMAS SELECTION, served from Monday PLEASE ASK US FOR A BROCHURE. 26th November

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Bookings also being taken for our 5 course Festive Christmas Menu.

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for groups of 10 people or more

Papadums with relish Choice starter Chicken Tikka Onion Bhajee Samosas Chicken Chat

Rafique Miah welcomes you to the longest established Indian and Bangladeshi Restaurant in Wombourne Village, serving sumptuous Bangladeshi Cuisine for over 29 years.

Choice main course Chicken Tikka Masala Chicken Tikka Jalfrezi Lamb Bhuna Prawn Sagwaller Balti Vegetable Balti Rice or Nan Pilau Rice Fried Rice Mushroom Pilau Rice Plain Nan Peshwari Nan Keema Nan

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www.wombournetandoori.com 77

More than just a r ac e co u r s e

Wolverhampton Racecourse is one of the UK’s busiest racecourses, set within 22 acres of beautiful parkland.

In 2018, the racecourse will stage over 82 meetings which include both afternoon and evening racing.

It is an extremely popular venue for individuals of all ages with a renowned reputation for racing all year round and highly anticipated events, including feature days out and after-racing entertainment.

We welcome over 120,000 visitors each year to the racecourse who each enjoy an exciting and memorable experience. Our ‘Evening Racing & Live Music’ shows certainly do just that as guests can enjoy a fantastic full-card of racing and then make their way into the 400 seated Ringside Restaurant afterwards to enjoy live music and entertainment.

Our popular Saturday entertainment has been running for over 10 years and it is always a sell-out. We start with tribute act Voulez Vouz, where we celebrate the music of

Swedish super group ABBA with an exciting sing-a-long style experience.

The racecourse offers two fabulous restaurants for guests to choose from to the get the ultimate raceday experience. Horizons Restaurant is the jewel in the crown at the racecourse, set over three tiers with a panoramic view of the racetrack there is no better way to enjoy style and luxury in Wolverhampton.

Recently awarded a Service of Excellent Award on Tripadvisor, the racecourse is proud to boast stunning food and fine wine that is continuously praised by guests that have dined in our restaurant.

partner ‘Explosive Productions’.

Promising to get everyone in the festive and party mood, guests will be entertained with exhilarating routines before dancing the night away with our resident DJ.

We are delighted to announce that for 2018 we bring you a new and exciting party night experience.

With the on-site recently refurbished Holiday Inn Hotel, party and raceday goers can enjoy the full experience Wolverhampton Racecourse has to offer, providing a peaceful night’s sleep once guests have enjoyed their evening of hospitality.

Introducing “Christmas Live”, an evening of entertainment including a high energy live production show from our new entertainment

More than just a racecourse, the venue offers a fabulous evening of entertainment for both nonracing and racing fixtures.

Keep up to date with all the latest racecourse news and information at w w w. w o l v e r h a m p t o n - r a c e c o u r s e . c o . u k and our social media channels.

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www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

79

Halfpenny Green Wi n e E s t a t e

By Rob Taylor

For as long as I can remember I’ve always enjoyed visiting Halfpenny Green Wine Estate.

For me the place is tinged with nostalgia: memories of happy times from my youth with my dearly departed grandpa are vividly conjured up whenever I begin to wind my way up the approach to the complex. And yet today my long-suffering girlfriend Nicola and I won’t be fishing (yes, there are two coarse-fishing lakes on-site still): sorry Grandpa, but the vineyard’s 80

newly refurbished restaurant exerts just too great a pull.

And with the mercury climbing faster today than a prize carp rising to snaffle up a choice maggot, the outdoors are best left to the mad dogs because this Englishman is heading inside post-haste.

Scooting through the arterial conservatory we pass many casual diners enjoying the all-day choice of drinks, cakes and light bites from the Conservatory menu.

Some visitors are sitting outside to the rear, others bounce back and forth between the many onsite attractions – my favourite is the fabulous Wine Loft, but today at Halfpenny Green there’s so much more: an eclectic mix of independent businesses await you at the complex. We, however, make

a beeline for the restaurant and the bespoke Sunday menu. And it seems we aren’t in the minority.

Now I know it’s a very warm and, in this country at least, almost unseasonably hot day – I wonder what this hot weather does for wine production? – but this isn’t the only reason why people are out in droves today. There’s much more than just this going on here. The restaurant is absolutely rammed to the rafters with hungry punters looking to feast on freshly prepared food made up of locally sourced ingredients. This is why it’s so busy. The Vineyards has a very good reputation locally– and I can see why.

The restaurant space exudes rustic charm: it is a well-considered mash-up of modern and traditional; beautifully finished, spacious and wolverhampton west magazine

dominated by overhead skylight and expansive folding floor-toceiling doors which look out to the vines. On this busy Sunday afternoon the doors are wide open and there’s a great atmosphere inside. Fine wine and sunshine is most definitely an intoxicating mix.

deliciously teamed with a smoky dip that pleases me enormously.

It’s an ample serving as well, no scrimping on the goods here.

Nicola’s choice shows more of the same: she tells me that her Tzatziki dip is particularly good; acting as a perfect foil to the fiery chorizo.

Though a flexible dining space well capable of entertaining larger parties (I spy a party of 10 in the corner enjoying Afternoon Tea) it has an intimate feel to it. Waiting staff work hard to ensure this feeling remains: they deliver speedy, attentive service throughout. In fact it’s tempting to say that they fizz about faster than the bubbles inside the glass of Nicola’s 2014 Sparkling Rosé.

Our mains go a long way to show just how much strength and depth there is in the Vineyards’ kitchen. My choice this time is ‘Slow roasted Lamb Shank, with roast potatoes, vegetable crisps, watercress, minted lamb jus and assorted vegetables’. The meat is tender and moist, it is cooked to perfection and is eager to fall off the bone; the potatoes are soft and pillowy; the carrots, sweet and crisp and the minted jus sets everything off deliciously. Nicola asserts that her choice of ‘Roast shoulder of Pork, with sage and apricot stuffing, crackling, roast potatoes, Penny Red jus and assorted vegetables’ is infinitely better but I remain unconvinced.

If only I could sample a little of everything… but, I suppose, I can’t have my cake and eat it too.

Options for lunch are as follows: 2 courses - £18.95; 3 courses – £22.95 or you can pay as you go. We elect to go the distance over the full three so it’s time to tuck in. To start I have ‘Halloumi Fries, with smoked paprika and red pepper rouille’ and Nicola goes for ‘Chargrilled Chorizo, with Tzatziki sauce.’ A particularly creamy and delicate serving of Halloumi cheese is allied to a crisp, battered coating, which is

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Moving swiftly along… not to cake (that’s covered in spades with countless homemade offerings on sale nearby) but to dessert: there’s a choice of many but I go for ‘Vanilla Panacotta, chocolate brittle, Chantilly cream, berries and coulis’; Nicola selects ‘Classic Banana Split, with vanilla ice cream, Chantilly cream, wafer, nuts, coulis and chocolate soil’. The fresh fruitiness of my dish is a fine and fitting way to counterbalance the savoury flavours: it is sweet and zesty and gone in but an instant.

Nicola follows very close behind.

After polishing off yet another choice glass of the Vineyard’s finest awardwinning wine (alas, the name and vintage escape me at this point – it’s been a long but infinitely fulfilling afternoon!) we make our way home by taxi, determined to return again and again – come rain or shine.

Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, Tom Lane, Bobbington, South Staffs DY7 5EP. www.halfpennygreen.co.uk For bookings please call 01384 22 11 22.

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3 H a mm e r s

B ar & Bistro - Cove n Win a meal for two This month we have teamed up with 3 Hammers Bar & Bistro to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a superb 3 course meal for 2 including coffee and a bottle of house wine.

Set within the 3 Hammers Golf Complex the restaurant offers a fully air conditioned bar and bistro providing a comfortable, welcoming and friendly atmosphere for you to enjoy whether you’re a golfer or not!

With its superb conservatory and outdoor eating area you can relax and enjoy a mouth-watering choice of freshly cooked traditional food.

The family friendly bar and bistro boasts a wide selection of dishes including a children’s menu,

vegetarian choices and daily specials board complemented by fine ales and wines.

Look out for details on their Dinner & Dance nights throughout December, which include tribute acts Tom Jones & Michael Bublé, guaranteed to get everyone in the party mood for the festive season.

An ideal venue for private parties including special family celebrations, corporate functions and wakes.

To be in with a chance to win this fabulous prize, all you have to do is answer the following question correctly:

Name one of the tribute acts performing at the bistro during December?

Email your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk or on a postcard to Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY. All entries to be received by Monday 8th October 2018.

Competition Terms and Conditions -Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and informed by telephone. To enter you must be aged 18 years or older. No cash or alternative prize will be given. Prize valid Monday to Friday inclusive and booking date will be subject to availability.

3 Hammers Golf Complex, Old Stafford Road, Coven, Wolverhampton WV10 7PP 01902 791917

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December Party Nights

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Fundraisers ‘Carry the Load’ for A group of friends have been raising funds for a Wolverhampton charity which provides care and support for people living with incurable conditions in a unique way by ‘carrying’ two members of the charity’s staff from Swansea to Wolverhampton without their feet touching the ground.

The challenge saw the group transport Nurse Specialist Debbie Smith and Marketing Manager Grace Lee from Compton Care (formerly Compton Hospice) a total of 140 miles on the back of a tandem, on a stretcher and in a canoe.

The Lord Bilston Big Challenge: Carry the Load event was the

third in a series of fundraising challenges organised by Brendon Turner to honour the memory of his late father Lord Bilston Dennis Turner who was cared for by Compton when he was diagnosed with cancer in 2014.

Brendon Turner said: “We were really impressed with Compton and the care and dedication they showed to my dad. Six months after he passed away we decided to do a fundraiser, just as a way of saying thank you, and since then we’ve completed three, with the latest being our biggest challenge yet.

“We did a cycle ride starting from Swansea, which included taking two members of Compton Care staff in a trailer attached to the back of a tandem, followed by an eight mile hike when we carried them on a stretcher, back on the tandem, and then in a canoe down the River Wye. Then it was back on the bikes at Hay-on-Wye for the final journey back to Wolverhampton.

“We know the staff at Compton carry a load for so many people at their most stressful and sad times, which can be really difficult, so on this occasion we wanted to ‘Carry the Load’ for them.

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“I am just keeping my Dad’s memory alive in a positive way, whilst at the same time helping out a really caring and important charity.

The group aim to raise £16,000 from the challenge, which would fund the equivalent of 77 visits by Compton Care nurses to patients in their own home, and are still receiving sponsorship money.

Compton Care Marketing Manager Grace Lee, added: “I have never met a more determined and inspirational team as the Lord Bilston Challenge team. They pushed themselves to the absolute physical and mental limits, and then some! At times things got really tough, but they refused to give in and their dedication to the challenge never faltered.

“The team quite literally carried Debs and I through, and so now because of them, Compton Care will be able to carry even more people through the tough moments.

They all did Dennis proud.”

To contribute to this year’s challenge, please visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ team-lord-bilston1 wolverhampton west magazine

Registered Charity 512387

Because being alive isn't the same as

feeling alive

Compton Care The care partner for people living with complex and incurable conditions

t: 0300 323 0250 e: hello@comptoncare.org.uk w: comptoncare.org.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Making Everyday Extraordinary 85

Photography courtesy of Andrews Creative

’S

Secrets to Success

Over the last three decades celebrity hairdressers Royston Blythe and Nick Malenko have achieved phenomenal success.

Not only have they established two highly successful salons, created personal portfolios that are recognised worldwide, gained massive industry recognition with a host of awards, they’ve also passed their skills on to a new generation of talented young hairdressers.

Keen to find out what their magic formula is we asked Royston and Nick to share their secrets to success: “A career in hairdressing has endless opportunities. Nick and I have seen the world and enjoyed many luxurious experiences whilst working on amazing shoots with celebrity clients and representing global brands,” explains Royston.

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“I tell every member of our team at each staff meeting that if they love their job then they’ll never have to work another day in their life. We love nothing more than sharing our experiences with younger members of the team who are keen to develop. To watch them become award-winning hairdressers, enjoying their own amazing experiences as session stylists and brand ambassadors, is very satisfying.”

“There is no magic formula other than hard work, absolutely loving what we do and injecting our energy and passion into our teams,” adds Nick.

For Royston and Nick, team spirit is a crucial element for salon success.

“Last year we took all of our staff on a team-building trip to Marbella, we had the best time and this really solidified the bonds between the team - they encourage each other, help and support each other at every level and make coming to work a pleasure rather than a chore,” says Nick.

And each member of the team is proud to be a part of the Royston Blythe brand and work alongside Nick and Royston.

“We believe that the secret to our success is our fabulous clients and our inspired, energetic and committed teams. Whatever our staff want to achieve, whether it’s becoming a session stylist, a celebrity stylist or a national competition winner, we make it happen by building confidence, focussing on development and generating a drive and passion to succeed.” wolverhampton west magazine

“When I first started my hairdressing career it was always my goal to work at Royston Blythe,” says Art Director, Charles Douek.

“I have a fantastic clientele that I have a really good laugh with. I see them all as my friends and people I enjoy being around. They make my job easy and make me want to come to work every day.”

And Charles has had the opportunity to achieve real personal success at the salon: “I’ve been nominated as a finalist for the British Hairdressing Awards 5 times. Nick and Royston have really supported me to achieve this and it has elevated me to the top of my game, giving me a real feeling of pride,” he adds.

whilst working at the Coronation festival, Emily has also been named as runner up at the L’oreal Colour Trophy National Grand Finals.

been welcomed, supported and encouraged by lifelong friends.”

“Doing our job isn’t just about making people look pretty and offering technical advice; we support people through all stages of their life from birth, marriage and even death.

Work isn’t work when you enjoy it, winning awards and travelling doing photo shoots and shows is just an added bonus. Every day’s a school day in our salon and I love learning something new!”

“I recently won the assistants Level 3 competition which gave me a real buzz and whether it’s just a normal day at the salon or partying together on a team building excercise in Marbella, we have such a good time in a supportive environment which I believe plays a massive part in me becoming a better stylist,” he adds.

Emily certainly shares the view that there’s a great relationship between staff at the salon: “More than anything, I have a work family - I’ve made friends for life who support me with absolutely everything,” she adds.

Joe is busy building his own portfolio of achievements at Royston Blythe.

Under the guidance of Royston and Nick there’s no doubt that every member of the team will realise their hairdressing dreams.

And so, there’s sure to be plenty more success for Royston Blythe to come. Watch this space…

Senior Stylist, Emily Faulkner began her career as Nick’s assistant and has since flourished into a senior stylist and Kerastase ambassador, she too is passionate about her career at the salon.

“I’ve never wanted to just settle for being another hairdresser and I knew that a career at Royston Blythe would offer me so much more than any other salon. I’ve always been driven to become one of the best hairdressers locally and enjoy an exciting and fulfilling career.”

And that’s just what the salon has provided for Emily, not only has she been lucky enough to stand next to the Queen at Buckingham Palace

Level 3 assistant, Joe Golden joined the team straight from school: “The training at Royston Blythe has been fantastic, it’s slightly longer than in other salons but this has really built my confidence and helped me have a better foundation.

I’ve worked with both Nick and Royston as their assistants, both of whom have been brilliant, and right from the nerve-racking first day when I stepped into the salon, I’ve

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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

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METHOD BEHIND THE MADNESS At 13 my daughter Ella, used to buy face wipes.

Understanding that wipes are often more practical (who wants to lug a 250ml bottle around with them on all their travels?). But most wipes are therefore soaked in alcohol or preservatives in high concentration to keep bacteria at bay. In addition, most facial wipes contain surfactants in order to be effective in dissolving make up and grime.

So I wouldn’t let Ella use them, however after throwing away packs she had bought, she said to me one day “Mom, you need to make some wipes, but some good ones”. by the time she was 14, I got fed up with her asking as I didn’t have much time. So as Mom’s do, I said to her why don’t you do it. So by the time she was 15, we launched one of Heaven’s most successful product, that I had ever created. Of course, it was a collaboration between us both, so I can’t take all of the credit.

So many celebrities loved the first production of the Ella Jane Wipes and we were both proud to see royalty using them.

I realised my daughter was on to a winner and my daughter was on to a complete success. I was so proud of my daughter’s ideas and her keen eye for detail. At 19 years old, we decided to bring two more types that would be more specific for every skin type.

We knew we had to make the Ella Jane Wipes even better. I loved working with my daughter on this.

Thinking we had plenty of time, we have constantly wanted the new wipes to be absolutely perfect!

Then the fateful day came when we had sold out of the original wipes. We decided not to produce any more, we decided to make our curate; Refresh, Renew and Heal Facial Wipes.

Refresh targets to remove dirt, excess oil and make-up, while hydrating, reviving and helping protect skin against environmental aggressors.

The inclusion of peppermint and spearmint minimises oil secretion in the skin, balances the PH levels and refines pores, leaving the skin balanced and hydrated.

Heal works to control sensitive skin types or those that are prone to acne, rosacea and eczema.

The chamomile and echinacea acts as an antiinflammatory and anti-allergen to normalise the skin whilst the organic witch hazel reduces redness.

Of course not forgetting the bee venom, that tells the skin to repair itself.

Renew is curated with the organic neroli and orange.

Vitamin C brightens your complexion, promotes skin rejuvenation while restoring balance. Abeetoxin which contains organic bee venom is the perfect anti-ageing solution as it helps penetrate fine lines even around the delicate eye area.

Each gentle wipe is luxuriously soft and sweeps effortlessly over the face, removing everything from foundation to stubborn mascara.

I’m so proud of my daughter. Make sure you’re signed up to our newsletter to be the first to know when they are out! Available soon at heavenskincare.com To pre-order please call, Heaven HQ on: 01952 462505.

To book in for treatments please call our Shifnal salon on: 01952 461888.

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REFRESH Enriched with organic peppermint & apple they are perfect for a quick pre-workout cleanse, while maintaining the oil levels in the skin.

RENEW The organic neroli and orange brightens your complexion, promotes skin rejuvenation while restoring balance.

HEAL Works to control sensitive skin types or those that are prone to acne, rosacea and eczema. The chamomile and rose acts as an anti-inflammatory.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

&A QA Is your child reaching their full potential at school? If not then a Visual Stress Assessment could help.

Award-winning Visual Dyslexia specialist and Director of Taylor Biddle Opticians Olha Lac explains Q. WHAT IS VISUAL STRESS? Simply explained, Visual Stress (also known as Visual Dyslexia or Irlen Syndrome) is a sensitivity to visual patterns, particularly stripes.

It can occur when a white background appears to interfere with lines of black print and causes difficulties with visual processing of the reading content.

Q. IS VISUAL STRESS THE SAME AS DYSLEXIA? Visual stress is not the same as Dyslexia, but is more common in those who are dyslexic and can occur despite normal vision.

It is thought that it affects 12 percent of the population and 65 percent of dyslexics. Many dyslexic people are sensitive to the glare of white backgrounds on a page, white board or computer screen. This can make the reading of text much more difficult.

Q. WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? Sufferers may report movement and blurring of the text. Letters can appear to reverse or change shape.

Halos, colours or patterns are often seen, sometimes described as ‘rivers’ or ‘worms’. Red, sore eyes and headaches are also frequent complaints. These individuals often have poor comprehension of the reading content and are observed to fidget, move a book around, skip words and lines and often rub their eyes and blink frequently.

Frustration and low self esteem can occur in children who are underachieving at school due to visual stress, therefore early diagnosis is essential. The longer it takes to identify and remedy 90

visual stress, the greater the loss of confidence that can result.

Q. IS THERE A CURE FOR THE CONDITION? There is no known ‘cure’, but visual stress can be reduced or eliminated by the use of coloured lenses that are prescribed following Colorimetry assessment when the precise tint is selected with the aid of an INTUITIVE COLORIMETER, which produces thousands of colour combinations. It is essential to investigate and correct any binocular vision instability before undertaking Colorimetry assessment.

Our success rate is around 80 percent and some individuals reach up to a 150 percent increase in speed of reading, while others reach about 20 percent due to other non-visual learning difficulties.

Very often children move up several reading levels within a few weeks and their confidence soars.

Q. MY CHILD HAS DIFFICULTY READING BUT I WAS TOLD THAT THEIR VISION IS NORMAL. IS THIS CORRECT?

Over the years I have seen hundreds of patients, ranging from five to 60 years old, and have developed an incredibly successful method that combines the most scientifically backed techniques and a battery of tests that can be specifically tailored for an individual child or adult. The improvements in reading speed and accuracy are usually instant and it’s often incredibly emotional for parents to witness their child’s transformation. n Visual Stress assessments with Olha are available at Taylor Biddle Opticians and include an individually tailored vision assessment, Colorimetry and Clinical Eye Tracker for effective progress monitoring.

If required, a full report will be issued to parents and school special needs departments.

Visit the website taylorbiddle opticians.co.uk for further information or call 01902 750325 and we will answer any questions that you may have.

It is important to remember that normal sight may not necessarily be synonymous with normal vision. Reading is a complex task and involves many aspects.

Most recent studies found that people with reading difficulties are more likely to have unstable binocular vision, which means that their eyes have to work harder than usual to maintain alignment and tracking whilst reading and writing. Some of the conventional tests used in eye tests may not show this instability in children. wolverhampton west magazine

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

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D

GUEST

Beauty

Deborah Mitchell

PRODUCTS & TIPS

FRÉDÉRIC MALLE:

£38

Une Fleur De Cassie, Eau de Parfum 10ml I like a bargain and to get perfumes I love at the right price is always great, you can get 10ml bottles of Frédéric Malle now. Having some of the world’s most iconic avantgarde perfumes here is an intoxicating and complicated fragrance that takes inspiration from the glamour and grace of the Thirties. Rare and precious notes of mimosa, jasmine, cassia and rose use carnation as a counterpoint, resting upon a rich vanilla and sandalwood base a highly indulgent and powerful floral.

Available at: libertylondon.com

£25

Hourglass: Caution Extreme Lash Mascara I love luxury makeup brands and the feeling of being pampered, one of the best brands for me has to be Hourglass; from the look to the ingredients everything shouts luxury. My latest addition to my collection is this must have all-in-one mascara that delivers endless length, intense volume and sky-high lift for extreme, dramatic lashes.

If you are not sure what to buy you can always find Gift Vouchers for Heaven skincare at: heavenskincare.com

from

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Available at: Harvey Nichols in Birmingham

Heaven: Quick Cleansing Waters (Peppermint & Chamomile) At Heaven, we are celebrating 23 years in business this year and have been having a #RetroParty bringing back old favourite products and changing their formulas to suit new purposes. My real two favourites that I have re-imagined are the Peppermint and Chamomile that I have added absolute pure oils too, they relieve my skin of any makeup and impurities, my new Quick Cleansing Waters are amazing makeup removers. I use the peppermint to wake me up and prepare my skin and the chamomile to have perfect skin for sleep.

Available at: heavenskincare.com

Heaven: Ellajane Facial Wipes Long awaited are back and better than ever.

They make my skin look younger, I love them.

The Ellajane facial wipes Heal, Renew & Refresh are the world’s first facial wipes using organic ingredients that are designed to work with a specific skincare range, Heaven. They are designed to be a treatment within themselves.

Available at: heavenskincare.com

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£tba wolverhampton west magazine

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Aristocats

New Autumn/Winter 2018 Collections Arriving Daily

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5 things you should know about varicose veins 1. Don’t worry, you can keep crossing your legs

4. Exercise promotes long-term vein health

The common claim that crossing your legs causes varicose or spider veins is untrue. Instead, the primary factors are genetics, age, weight, gender, pregnancy, history of blood clots, and standing or sitting for extended periods of time.

Physical activities such as walking, swimming, and stair-climbing improve circulation. When your blood flows without restriction, your veins are less likely to experience the pressure that causes varicose veins.

2. Varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic issue While varicose veins might look unpleasant, they can also present serious health risks. Many varicose veins cause symptoms such as aching and itching, swelling and restless legs at night and the sensation of throbbing over the vein, but untreated veins can lead to brown areas of damaged skin, eczema, ulcers, bleeding and blood clots.

The Vein Clinic at the Wolverhampton Nuffield Hospital, led by Mr Simon Hobbs, Consultant Vascular Surgeon, treats the vast majority of varicose veins as walkin, walk-out procedures, under local anaesthetic, with greatly enhanced recovery compared to traditional surgical treatments.

During a consultation, an ultra sound scan will be performed to detect the source of the problem and from the size and position, indicate the best treatment for you.

5. Professional treatment is the only certain solution Compression stockings can minimise the effects of varicose veins, but the only way to completely rid yourself of them is through treatment from an experienced vein clinician. The good news is that even the most advanced treatments are minimally invasive and covered by most insurance companies.

Recognised by all major medical insurers we also accept selfreferrals for self-paying patients.

For further information or to schedule a Consultation visit

www.simonhobbsveins.co.uk

3. Men get varicose veins too About 80% of varicose vein patients are women, but 42% of men will develop varicose veins by the time they reach their 60s – many of these men suffer in silence.

Before Procedure

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

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

wolverhampton west magazine

Passionate about helping their clients ‘find their feet’, the team at Foot Therapy at the Tettenhall Woodbased chiropody clinic, offer both an unbeatable professional service and a range of leading foot care products that meet the needs of every individual.

“We specialise in everything to do with the wellbeing of the feet,” explains owner, Jags Dhaliwal.

The team at Foot Therapy have helped their clients combat all kinds of different foot problems and use only the best products available to support their treatment service.

“We offer solutions to all common ailments including athlete’s foot,

corns, calluses, nail problems, cracked heels, bunions, verrucas, foot arch problems, odour control and skin health. We also supply both on and off the shelf custom made orthotics.”

Keen to provide clients with the highest levels of care and service, Jags ensures every member of her team is highly qualified.

“All of our podiatrists are HCPC registered and belong to The Society of Chiropodist and Podiatrists. We pride ourselves on providing all-round expert knowledge as well as superior customer service.”

There are currently three full and part time Podiatrists at Foot Therapy and Jags will be increasing the team to four later on this year.

Taking care of foot health should be a priority for everyone: “On average you walk 10,000 steps a day. During a lifetime it is thought that you will have walked enough steps to have travelled around the planet more than 4 times, approximately 115,000 miles.”

Of course, those who suffer from medical conditions, like Diabetes and Arthritis need to take extra care of their feet.

“We know that it’s vital to provide a complete foot care service that meets the needs of every client,” adds Jags.

So, why not treat your feet to the TLC they deserve?

Book an appointment at Foot Therapy today.

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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Professional treatments at

Cosmetique

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

So, have you been Cosmetique’d?

And, because Cosmetique is a clinic, not a beauty salon, clients can rest assured that they’re in capable hands every time they visit.

“The procedures we offer are carefully researched, backed by medical evidence and carried out by professionals,” explains owner Suky Chana.

Equipped with the latest technology, Suky ensures that every client attains the best results.

As a GP-led private clinic, every one of Cosmetique’s treatments is carried out by a highly qualified practitioner.

“Our Format K Magma Diode laser is the latest on the market and it treats every skin type, from 1-6. “

Offering anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, as well as a range of other targeted procedures, the clinic offers clients excellent results when it comes to turning back the clock on ageing skin.

Measuring the amount of melanin in a client’s skin, the laser offers a treatment that matches the need of each individual.

Of course, there are plenty of treatments for the body too; laser hair removal, 3D Lipo, skin tightening, stretch mark removal, cellulite removal, are amongst other treatments carried out by the experts in a professional setting.

“Laser hair removal eliminates the need for waxing, threading and shaving, and is a great way to become completely hair-free for a holiday.”

In fact, if you start the treatment now, hair removal will be a thing of the past by the time next year’s summer holiday season begins.

With a special offer now on, there has never been a better time to book an appointment at the clinic.

Throughout September and October 2018 Cosmetique are offering a course of eight Format K Magma Diode

Laser Hair Removal treatments for only £140.

570 Penn Road, Penn, Wolverhampton WV4 4HU

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

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

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

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

To book an appointment or further details please call 01902 334181 cosmetiqueaesthetic@gmail.com www.cosmetiqueaesthetics.co.uk 100

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WOLVERHAMPTON HIP

& KNEE CLINIC

The Wolverhampton hip and knee clinic has been developed to provide modern, comprehensive and evidence based treatment for all hip and knee disorders.

Mr David Simpson is an established and experienced Consultant orthopaedic surgeon. He is the leading regional exponent of custom made, personalised ‘Signature’ knee replacements.

MR DAVID SIMPSON CONSULTANT ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON

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

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

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Life never stands still at WLTSC We may be heading into the autumn months, and sadly the summer sunshine will soon be a distant memory, but that’s not to say that life at Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis Club shows any sign of slowing down.

The programme of sporting and social activities at the popular Newbridge-based venue are in full flow all year around, and there is much to look forward to over the coming months.

The fitness sessions put on by the System Energize team are very popular and include Chris Law and Paul Davies, who have amassed a combined 80 years of attending circuit training!

In the world of squash, WLTSC is delighted to be hosting one of the regional Masters events from September 21-23, with over 100 entries expected from the Over-35 competitions to the Over-75s.

fitness at WLTSC, with significant improvements to the Strength and Conditioning area, known as ‘The Pit’.

There is also a new Head of Squash and Racketball now in position, with a warm welcome to Chris Dawson, a Level 3 coach, who will be looking to develop and improve WLTSC’s offering in both sports.

The previous area has been doubled in size and decked out with new equipment which will help both elite athletes prepare for competition and club members benefit from an even better level of personal training.

Members will benefit from the training techniques used by professional athletes and celebrities to reach their goals.

This already includes delivering weekly hours of coaching to the students at Tettenhall College, and also being a regular venue for the RAF’s squash training, with another camp booked in for October.

“As ever we are keen at WLTSC to continue to develop and improve our extensive sporting programme, as well as remaining a really friendly and social, community club,” says Operations Manager Marc Hughes.

New squash and tennis links are also currently being forged with the University of Wolverhampton, and there have also been exciting developments in the area of

“We would love to welcome potential new members to come and have a look at what we can offer – please give us a call or pop into reception and say hello!”

CAN WOLVERHAMPTON’S BEST KEPT SECRET HELP YOUR BUSINESS?

Spacious corporate training room available for hire at excellent rates.

Professional and relaxed service in attractive surroundings.

Corporate partnerships available at community-focused club. ● wltsc.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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01902 755 265

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club@wltsc.com 103

Step out in style this

season

Model wears Oasis – See in store or online for prices.

By Helen Taylor

It’s been a long, hot summer but now that autumn is fast approaching it’s time to take a look at the key pieces you’ll need to create your own new season style this September.

Getting your wardrobe into shape for the cooler months is easier than you think and, with the help of a few carefullychosen buys, stepping outside can be altogether more stylish this season.

Model wears Oasis – See in store or online for prices.

Model wears Oasis – See in store or online for prices.

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Camel ‘Teddy’ Coat £39.99 New Look

Dress £36 Next

Blue Wide Leg Jeans £25.99 New Look

Shirt £34 Next

Cardigan £28 Next

Handbag £259 Radley at Littlewoods

Grey Ankle Boots £45.99 Dorothy Perkins www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Scarf £25 Laura Ashley 105

Affordable

F i t n e ss

South Staffordshire Council provide 4 leisure centres which include Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne.

Join any one and use the other three sites at no extra charge.

Memberships are flexible and affordable with prices starting from just £20 per month, that’s just £5 per week!

For this small cost, you will get access to all areas including the gyms, a huge range of

exercise classes, swimming pools, toning suites and the indoor cycling studios.

The facilities are friendly and we welcome all ages and abilities, with sessions and activities to suit everyone. As a member, you can request a FREE health check to help you get started and a personal fitness programme to help determine your goals and get you on the right track.

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

The leisure centres are open to both members and non-members, however we charge no joining fees, there are no long term contracts and no cancellation fees.

CUT OUT YOUR FREE DAY PASS AND GIVE US A TRY! www.sstaffs.gov.uk/leisure

CALL NOW Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre Codsall Leisure Centre Penkridge Leisure Centre Wombourne Leisure Centre 106

01922 417790 01902 844032 01785 714152 01902 898202 wolverhampton west magazine

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Codsall Codsall Leisure Leisure Centre Centre01902 01902844032 844032• Cheslyn • Cheslyn Hay Hay Leisure Leisure Centre Centre 01922 01922417790 417790 Penkridge Penkridge Leisure Leisure Centre Centre 01785 01785 714152 714152 • Wombourne • Wombourne Leisure Leisure Centre Centre 01902 01902 898202 898202 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk 107

Simple Health Checks You Can Do at Home In a world where we’re constantly on the go and juggling things that life throws at us, it can be all too easy to put our health on the back-burner and gain a mindset that our personal wellbeing can wait.

Yet there are many quick and easy checks that we can perform on ourselves from the comfort of our own homes, which not only provide us with peace of mind, but could be potentially lifesaving by helping us identify – and seek support and treatment for – any issues sooner rather than later. Paycare, a notfor-profit health cash plan provider based in Wolverhampton, shares ‘10 health checks you can do at home’ to help stay in tip top shape.

1| Abdominal Fat Unlike the fat found on hips and thighs, abdominal fat (also known as visceral fat) is carried around the stomach and can be associated with more serious health issues such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease. If you notice a change in your clothes fitting or in your body’s shape (and it’s not due to diet or exercise) monitor your waist size on a regular basis.

2| Heart Rate On average, a healthy resting heart rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute. The fitter and healthier you are, the lower it should be. To check your heart rate, place a finger on the inside of your wrist whilst rested and count your pulse for ten seconds, and then multiply the result by six.

3| Heart Rhythm

An irregular heartbeat is more than just the occasional skipped beat, but rather a continuous irregular rhythm.

Shockingly, atrial fibrillation (the official term for the condition) affects around 1,000,000 people in the UK1.

4| Oral Health Most people don’t pay much more attention to their mouths other than brushing their teeth, but it’s important to regularly check for any abnormalities. Your dentist (and potentially your doctor) can advise.

5| Breast Exam 1 in 8 women in the UK will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, and 1 in 1,000 men. A breast exam can take just five minutes, so set yourself a monthly date and thoroughly check your breasts for any changes to size, colour and shape.

6| Testicular Exam Regularly carrying out a testicular self-exam is important so that you’re aware and confident with what is normal for you, and so that you know if something is different. Similar to a breast exam, check for any lumps, changes to colour and shape.

7| Moles Moles are very common, but in some instances, can be a warning sign for a more serious condition. Check moles regularly for any changes and be sure to check for any new moles too. If they have rough edges or are not symmetrical, you should make your GP aware in case they want to do any exploratory checks.

8| Wheeze Test

Kevin Rogers, CEO of Paycare

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Around 5.4 million people in the UK are currently receiving treatment for asthma. If you find that you are becoming wheezy and struggling to catch your breath often, you should request to be tested.

It’s quite common and many people who receive treatment lead normal lives. But if it goes undiagnosed and you don’t get the help you need, it can be fatal.

9| Low Iron Anaemia affects 1 in 10 women in the UK, and can cause fatigue, weakness, heart palpitations, shortness of breath and lightheadedness. Check the redness of your gums and the inside of your eyelids – if any of these appear paler than usual, it could indicate anaemia and a blood test would be required.

10| Bowel Awareness Everyone is different when it comes to bowel movements, and our diets can play a huge role in that. But should you notice any changes in how often you go, or the consistency, and if these changes last longer than three weeks, do contact your GP. Getting an appointment with your local GP can be difficult if you work when they’re open, and there are long waiting times, but your health and wellbeing should be a priority, and it’s important not to overlook any concerns you have.

Don’t forget that as a Paycare Policyholder, you have access to the GP 24/7 app and support online via your My Paycare account, where you can book an appointment to speak directly to a qualified and practicing GP at any time of the day or night. For more information, visit www.paycare.org

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WOLVERHAMPTON HOSPITAL

Official medical supplier to Wolves

MEET OUR CONSULTANTS.

Join us during September & October for a series of FREE Patient Events at our hospital on Wood Road, Tettenhall.

Each event starts at 6:30pm with refreshments. Parking is free.

Call our bookings team to reserve your place on: 01902 793 269

25 SEPT

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LET’S TALK COSMETIC SURGERY.

27 SEPT

LET’S TALK SKIN PROBLEMS.

2

OCT

LET’S TALK COSMETIC SURGERY.

01902 793 269

nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/wolverhampton

@nuffwolvhosp

Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital

4

OCT

LET’S TALK VARICOSE VEINS.

wolverhampton west magazine

Rapid Relief from Varicose Veins

with

VenaSeal

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 painless. Choosing private treatment with a consultant vascular surgeon at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton hospital, means that you can be sorted out in one visit and will be back on your feet quickly!

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

Mr Andy Garnham, Consultant vascular surgeon

Minimallly invasive treatment with VenaSeal is quick, effective and comfortable

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 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 veins procedures, allowing us to provide a bespoke service for each individual patient. ”

Mr Simon Hobbs, Consultant vascular surgeon

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.”

Consultant vascular surgeons Mr Hobbs and Mr Garnham are hosting free Varicose Vein Information events which describes all the surgical options.

These will be at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital in Wood Road, Tettenhall, 6.30pm on Thursday 4 October and Thursday 15 November, 2018. Book online: www.nuffieldhealth.com/ hospitals/wolverhampton/events

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Willows Dental and Implant Centre Willows Dental

An insight to dental phobia…

With our dental phobia and anxiety dentists Dr Neel Barchha and Dr Victoria Barchha

What is Dental phobia?

NB: The term phobia, describes an “irrational fear” however having listened to our clients stories, I don’t think these fears are irrational, dentistry requires a lot of trust. Some of our clients have had bad experiences, some of them with school dentists and some of them more recently at other practices.

How can we recognize it?

NB: I think it’s important to understand that apprehension is perfectly normal. It’s ok to be nervous. For some of our clients even getting into the building can be tough but once they’re in, have been made a drink and have one of our dental anxiety team listening to them, it’s amazing the transformation in body language and overall confidence that happens with them.

What can we do about it?

VB: Well first of all it’s about not burying your

head in the sand. Believe me, whatever state you think your mouth is in we have seen worse and We Don’t Judge. We understand how hard it is to make that call. We know that the hole in your tooth isn’t hurting yet and a bit of mouthwash makes the gums stop bleeding for a few days but we can cure almost anything if we catch it early.

How does Willows dental differ from some of the practices these clients may have visited before?

NB: Dental anxiety is a scale. For some people, a sit down away from the clinical environment of a surgery with someone who listens and understands is enough, for others we can prescribe some tablets to help them relax before treatment and for a lot of the clients we see we use dental sedation which makes them feel instantly at ease. Over the last 15 years we’ve treated thousands of clients from all walks of life and all parts of the world. It’s really all of our favourite part of our career.

Vicky and Neel Dental Phobia and Anxiety Dentists

Sophie and Amrita Anxiety Team

What type of treatments do you do under sedation?

NB: We always start with something simple but we’ve done everything from polishing the teeth to implants under sedation. We tailor all of our treatment plans around what the client wants and we always call them the next day to ensure that they haven’t remembered anything and have felt comfortable. In 15 years we’re proud to say we’ve never turned anyone away.

How would someone get treatment under sedation?

VB: The first step would be to call, email or even message us on our website. Our consultations with our anxiety team are free of charge.

Finally, is there any other advice you have for clients out there who are suffering?

VB: We are here to help, a lot of our clients come

in saying they feel stupid for having this fear, it’s perfectly normal to feel that way, but all you have to do is call us, and join the thousands of clients we’ve helped gain their confidence to eat, smile, kiss and connect. Our Facebook page is filled with videos and testimonials of real people that we’ve helped.

Willows Dental and Implant Centre

5 Ounsdale Road Wombourne | Wolverhampton WV5 9JE Tel: 01902 324230 or email us: mail@willowsdental.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Birchfield School Albrighton The annual Birchfield Ball was held on the school grounds, this year it was a ‘Broadway’ theme Tables were individually themed - based on a different Broadway musical show. Rat Pack singer ‘James Sings’ provided the live entertainment followed by a DJ later in the evening.

A delicious 3 course meal was provided by local catering company, Take Food.

Five Star Bar Co provided the Cocktail and shaker style bar - all bar staff were dressed as cast of either Jersey Boys or West Side Story. A Raffle and auction was brilliantly compered by Neel Barchha.

2. Susan Harding, Zoe Ross.

3. The Pink Ladies - Alexandra Heath, Julia Loumidis, Lavinia Thompson, Caroline Gautier.

4. Chris Reynolds, Jayne Taylor, Simon Taylor, Adele Reynolds, Chris Brown, Charlie Brown, Sally Reynolds, Tom Reynolds, front - Paul Reynolds (Headmaster).

5. Ciara Burns, Iain Anderson.

6. Dean Harding, Neel Barchha.

7. Royston Blythe, Sara Tunnicliff, Nick Malenko, Ian Tunnicliff.

The event’s chief organiser was Jade Colton, Chair of the Friends of Birchfield School.

8. Will McKellar, Harriet Hommers.

The evening raised in excess of £9000 for Friends of Birchfield School.

10. (back row) Torrie Collinge, Vicki Barchha,

Sponsored by

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1. James Colton, Jade Colton, Clare Norton, Gary Norton.

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

9. Peter Hommers, Andrew Flavell. (front row) Jade Colton, Sue Harding, Clare Norton.

11. Susan Harding, Sam Kemp-Marshall, Mariangela Orosz, Debbie Bradshaw.

12. One of the table settings. wolverhampton west magazine

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

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The Mount Hotel Tettenhall Royston Blythe held their annual Apprentice Competition at The Mount Hotel, Tettenhall. Apprentices from both Shrewsbury and Wolverhampton salons presented their models to a host of judges, guests and their families.

Special guest was Wolverhampton`s favourite comedian Doreen Tipton who wowed the audience with her stories and songs. After a delicious Sunday Lunch, The Royston Blythe Art Team presented a spectacular Hair Show. After announcing the Apprentice of the Year prizes, everyone partied the night away.

Sponsored by

Congratulations to the winners, Megan Nicholls, Rose Bethan, Joe Golden and Ellie Meakin.

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Nick Malenko, Sue Cole, Royston Blythe.

Kim Guest, Jason Beet.

Lynne Jones, Ellie Meakin, Hollie Jones.

Chris Millinson, Sharon Millinson, Sophia Millinson.

K ate Ingram, Rebecca Ingram.

Kevin James, Lisa Friend.

Nicholas Tucker, Ian Tunnicliff.

Royston Blythe, Sara Tunnicliff.

Robert Oliver, Sarah Oliver.

Lauran Jeavons, Beth Price, Sam Walker, Hope Price-Mould, Bethan Rose.

Deborah Mitchell, Royston Blythe.

Malcolm Bridgwood, Ellie Bridgwood, Joanne Bridgwood, Rahtree Gilmore.

Jodie Eagleton, Terri Brown.

Dave Fellows, Libby Walton, Fiona Swann, Charles Douek, James Kelly.

Emily Faulkner, Emer Finn, Charlotte Cotterill, Sam Walker, Lauren Jeavons, Joe Golden, Cheyenne Rafferty, Megan Nicholls.

Cilla Poxon, Chris Bennasciutti, Jan Humphries, Rahtree Gilmore. wolverhampton west magazine

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Photographs courtesy of Designer Photography

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Mount Hotel Tettenhall Over 100 guests enjoyed a champagne reception and dinner at a ball hosted by Libby Walton in memory of her sister Georgeanne Griffin who sadly passed away in 2014 after losing her battle with breast cancer.

Staffordshire singer Tori Hoyle had guests singing and dancing. A raffle and silent auction on the night helped to raise over ÂŁ6000 for Compton Care.

Libby would like to give a special mention to the event sponsors Barclays, The Whittam Group, Marlborough of England and Selfridge’s Birmingham.

1. Dave Fellows, Libby Walton.

2. Jonathan Stokes, Joanna Kinsey.

3. Harriet Butler, Ryan Pryce.

4. Stuart Williams, Marie Williams.

5. Rebekah Hadley, Nicola Butler.

6. Dominique Stout, Kathleen Abel, Ben Hickman.

7. Ava Bolton, Emily Nicholls.

8. Julie Hoyle, Tony Hoyle.

9. Stephanie Green, Ben Whittall.

10. Gary Parkes, Julia Parkes, Lisa McKenzie, Neil McKenzie, Richard Down, Kathleen Down.

11. Dave Wellington, Dave White, Vernon Nibbs.

12. Thomas Walton, Kathleen Abel, Libby Walton, James Walton.

Sponsored by

13. Charlotte Wellington, Libby Walton, Bev Nibbs.

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

14. Molly Nicholls, Charlotte Griffin.

15. Natalie Lamb, Emma Martin, Olivia Nicholls, Emma Guest.

16. Olivia Nicholls, Caroline Marsden, Jenny Gill. wolverhampton west magazine

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

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Party with Corbelli Brewood

Live reggae bands soon got the party started with guests strutting their stuff dressed in vibrant colours to evoke memories of holidays spent on a Caribbean island paradise.

A reggae fest party was held in Brewood to celebrate the birthday of Giuseppe Corbelli of Corbelli’s Little Italy Deli. Authentic Jamaican food was served along with a sumptuous spread of Italian delights from the deli.

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Giuseppe will need to replenish the alcohol stocks at the deli following the party!

Ranjit Singh, Richard Gayle.

Giuseppe Corbelli, Natasha Price.

James Murphy, Mike Davis.

Stella Hickey, Dom Hickey, Sarah Peonio, Aine Plimmer.

Jane Kennedy, Leslie Kennedy.

Maxine Price, Rebecca Soltani, Romy Soltani.

Steve Lanza, Jason Smith.

Trice Grace (Band). wolverhampton west magazine

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Bella Chapel Ash Sponsored by

Brian and Sam Saunders from Coven celebrated their silver wedding anniversary with family and friends on Saturday 23rd July 2018. Sam surprised everyone by wearing her original wedding dress – Specialists in helping people to retire early www.midlandifa.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

very impressive! The venue was block booked by the happy couple to accommodate all guests.

Good food and a great night of live entertainment guaranteed that it was a night to remember.

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Tracy Simmons, Andy Simmons.

Family and Friends.

Alison Cornes, Neil Cornes.

Jack Saunders, Niamh Saunders, Sam Saunders, Brian Saunders, Deb Saunders, Neil Saunders.

Brian Saunders, Denys Brown.

Sheila Brown, Sam Saunders.

Klimi Kaneva, Paul O’Neil.

Jade Saunders, Emma Saunders.

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Grand Station Wolverhampton

1. James Morris, Bradley Clegg.

James Morris and Bradley Clegg, directors of Concero celebrated their 10th Anniversary in business with a party at The Grand Station earlier in the summer along with over 300 invited guests who dressed to impress.

5. Oliver Aleksejuk, Lucy Bickley.

Prosecco and canapĂŠs were served on arrival before a delicious 2 course meal was served.

Entertainment took place throughout the evening which included large screens showing captured moments of James and Bradley.

10. Daniel Lunn, Matthew Dolphin, Nadiah Sweilem, Abbi Ward, Lauren Smith.

Sponsored by

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2. Kirsten Sweet, Curtis Pickford.

3. Kim Marsden, Sarah Froggatt.

4. Pete Morris, Ellena Morris, Josh Stallard.

6. Melissa Heise, Liza Small.

7. Rebecca Rollason, Jane Edwards.

8. Emma Fisher, David Fisher.

9. Richard Gummery, Nikki Elsner-Gummery.

11. Helen Dutton, Rachael Russell, Tish Keech, Lesley Ward.

12. Katie Hemmings, Gail Hemmings, Sarah Horton, Wendy Hill.

13. John Bailey, Liz Groves, Jill Bailey, Alan Groves.

14. Jane Oakley, Steve Oakley, Andy Davis, Lynne Davis.

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

15. Donna Pink, Louise Harris, Sally Mansell, Jason Mansell.

16. Emma Dyas, Amie Worthy, Alistair Smith, Narinder Heer, Rekha Kohli, Laura Wilkes, Amarjit Cheema. wolverhampton west magazine

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Molineux Stadium Wolverhampton WIRE Awards deliver a night to remember Proud businesses from across the City of Wolverhampton packed out WV1 at Molineux Stadium for the 2nd Wolverhampton Independent Retail Excellence (WIRE) Awards on Tuesday 17th July 2018. The celebration was led by Wolverhampton Business Improvement District (BID) in partnership with the City of Wolverhampton Council. The evening, which saw local businesses scoop awards, showcased the quality, strength and diversity of independent retailers in the city and raised money for charity, Promise Dreams, on the night.

1. (Blooms) Daniel Howe, Martin Knock, Susan Vater, Tom Vater, Steve Pickerill, Ashley Weatherington, Kyle Nicholls, Daniel Cirino, Paul Gregory, Richard Blincoe.

2. (Room By Room) Steve Mills, Melissa Mills.

3. (Party Angels) Stacy Dixon, Sue Dixon.

Sponsored by

4. (City of Wolverhampton College) Richard Hewitt, Lynn Parker.

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

5 5. (City of Wolverhampton Council) John Reynolds, (Head of Business Services) Colin Parr.

6. (Robinsons Bakery) Wendy Green, Rob Green.

7. (MRS Comms) Hilary Llewellyn, (Mayoress and Mayor City of Wolverhampton) Elaine HadleyHowell, Phill Page, (MRS Comms) Sarah Ridings.

8. (Zaks Hairdressing) Alexandra Gamble, Elisha Manning, Jason O’Sullivan, Amy Bradley, Jessica Williams, Gary Edge, Rebecca Edge, Emma Price, Hayley Shillito, Claire Simmons.

9. (Robinsons Butchers) Hannah Ceresa, Liz Mason, Georgia Gallant, Nicole Daybell, Stephen Robinson, Chris Walton, Jordan Lucas, Emma Bryant, Tom Robinson, Flora Deeley.

10. (Gorgeous Hair & Beauty W-Ton) Daljit Kaur, Amandeeo Kaur, Vipanptir Brar, Amonprit Brar, Barjinder Singh.

11. (Mount Hotel) Sarah Swain, Ryan Sheehan, Neil Wyatt, Michelle Bridger.

12. (Nutmeg) Alex Abdel, Paula Abdel, Nadia Abdel, Yasmine, Abdel, Ieva Fedulina.

13. (The Springhill) Andy Meddings, Dominic Mullin, Chris Ludlow, Daniel Ashfield.

14. (Signal 107) Shantelle Watson-Cullis, Jonathan Fernyhough.

15. (City of Wolverhampton Council) Peter Bilson, Roger Lawrence.

16. (L & A Lettings) Richard Hall, Ann Whitehouse, Lyndon Whitehouse. wolverhampton west magazine

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Tailor made open events

for a tailor made education Parents considering an independent education for children from Year 3 to Sixth Form need to add Wolverhampton Grammar Senior and Junior School’s Open Day to their diary, Saturday 6th October, 2018, 11am to 3pm.

Demand for Junior, Senior and Sixth Form places at the city’s leading independent school is high with numbers increasing year on year. The school’s Compton Road campus has excellent public and school bus and coach routes attracting families from across the wider West Midlands, Shropshire and Staffordshire areas.

The school’s mission is simple: To deliver education that transforms lives as well as minds. The extensive 23 acre site blends stunning original architecture with creative, innovative learning spaces.

Light, bright classrooms, small class sizes and expert teachers provide students with a range of academic subjects and over 80 extra-curricular opportunities that other schools cannot match.

All our staff help us fulfil our mission as a school and our students go on to achieve great things. Our highly skilled staff work with students to ensure their curriculum is right for them. We can do this because of small class sizes and flexibility within our academic structures.

Our school community inspires openness, trust and mutual respect.

We know that a challenging education requires a supportive, caring environment as well as a blend of skills and a mind-set that embraces diversity and difference.

To achieve this, we: • Offer a personalised, flexible and individual learning experience full of academic opportunities and the largest range of extra-curricular activities, clubs, societies, trips, international expeditions and sport tours of any independent school in the area.

• Work with students as individuals to ensure their curriculum is right for them.

• Know and support every one of our students. We know that a challenging education requires a supportive, caring environment.

For us, education is not just about academic achievement, it’s about making a difference.

Every member of our school community has a belief that we can all make a difference. We will all play a part in equipping students to develop a love of learning.

The school has long been known for its approachability and the human dimension we bring to teaching. All our students are treated warmly as individuals. Their opinions are valued – this is because we know

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that our school thrives on the relationship between our students, their parents and our staff and the active role that we all play.

Whenever you join us at Wolverhampton Grammar School, you have the reassurance that every child is nurtured as an individual within a community that’s like no other. The friendships and connections that you make here will last a lifetime.

Wolverhampton Grammar Senior and Junior School is holding an Open Day on Saturday 6th October from 11am to 3pm providing an ideal opportunity to meet the Head, current students, and staff and take a tour around the school.

Parents can also discuss entrance requirements and admissions with the Admissions Registrar.

The school actively encourages all applicants to visit and experience their approach to learning and it’s famously welcoming atmosphere.

To arrange a visit, taster or discover day or to register for an Open Day contact: Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar, Wolverhampton Grammar School, Compton Road, Wolverhampton WV3 9RB tel: 01902 422939, email: jam@wgs-sch.net or visit the website www.wgs.org.uk for more details. wolverhampton west magazine

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

SCHOOL OPEN DAY Saturday 6 October 11am - 3pm th

For information about our Open Events please contact Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar telephone 01902 422939, email jam@wgs-sch.net or register online www.wgs.org.uk JUDGED “EXCELLENT” IN ALL AREAS BY THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS INSPECTORATE

TES INDEPENDENT SCHOOL AWARD WINNERS 2018

01902 421326

www.wgs.org.uk Wolverhampton Grammar School Compton Road Wolverhampton WV3 9RB

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Arjun Uppal, Jasbir Lalarea, Harry Hales

Belle Rockett, Emily Bradley, Grace Williams

South Staffs Golf Club Tettenhall

Wolverhampton Grammar School held their annual leavers’ ball at South Staffs Golf Club.

Students and staff were welcomed to enjoy dinner followed by a disco. The evening proved a great success and enjoyed by all.

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James Birch, Tom Pleydell

Simran Boparia, Ruby Bahia, Phoebe Ludlam, Rhianne Mahey

Vinay Doal, Advait Kumar, Luke Hingley-Smith, Robbie Smith

Michael Hopson, James Birch, James Turner, Mitchell PorterKeel, Nic Anderson, Jasvir Hayer, Tom Pleydell, Luke Harper

Ellie Froggatt, Karishma Mehan

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Childrentext under 16 FREE Must be accompanied by an adult RAF Museum Cosford Shifnal, Shropshire TF11 8UP 01902 376 200 rafmuseum.org www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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st 2019? nD augu oom! a 8 1 0 2 r r e ur tots septemb ces in o etween a b l p e e g r h in turn t remain ast few ur chilD Does yo up one of the l ap then sn

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wolverhampton west magazine

Where fun and family is

va l u e d

by Sarah Fisher

As we approach the end of our 80th anniversary year of education, and coincidently my 30th year of teaching, I would like to focus on the aims of the school and how diverse these are and how they focus on the development of the whole child.

Newbridge Preparatory School To give children strong foundations for learning in their early years

ranked the 14th best prep school in the country this year – which technically worked out at joint 10th!

To ensure that every child reaches his or her own full academic potential, through quality teaching in small classes

However, league tables tell us very little about what a school actually does with your children, and how far it has taken them. For a start, focusing solely on the ‘work’ aspect – does not acknowledge that education is a journey, not a destination. What we as parents and educators should be more concerned with is how much value has been added to the whole child.

To introduce children to the worlds of music, sport, dance, the arts and leisure activities To produce confident happy children with a sense of self discipline To encourage sensitivity to the needs of others and time to care for one another within a small, family atmosphere As parents, the easiest way to judge a school is by its academic results, primarily because of the measurability of those results, which then leads on to being able to put schools in neat little tables and to decide if they are adequately ranked – and without doubt, we did of course celebrate being

We recently hosted our ‘New Fest’ summer fair to celebrate Newbridge’s 80th year and what better way than with a Birthday Party for the children. Having started the year with a traditional ball for the adults and finished the special year with New Fest—The Big Children’s Festival! It was a lovely celebration of Newbridge in a very modern way! Most of all it encapsulated all of the school aims.

We held a ‘camp over’ to finish off the day with a festival feel.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

During the evening there was a variety of activities including: • Family Games • Pop Song videos— to sing along to • Just Dance—to dance along to • Disco classics—like the Macarena • A dance class run by Bedazzle • Fire breathing entertainment • Bouncy Disco Dome … available until late • Bedtime stories with Mrs Fisher • Singing around the camp fire • And an all-day breakfast the following morning!

However, one of the most delightful moments of my 30 years career, was when I asked four Year Six girls who were lying in sleeping bags in the middle of the school field, if they were going to bed. Their response…

“No, Mrs Fisher we would like to fall asleep under the stars!”

Now that is what I call educating the whole child!

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Pondering

Podc asts

By Sarah Davey

Can podcasts help our GCSE students?

By the time you read this article the first lot of students who sat GCSEs under the new system (Grades 9-1) will have received their results.

At the time of writing no-one knows how they will have fared.

The consensus from teachers seems to be that the new syllabus and grading system requires a lot more breadth and depth of knowledge and in some subjects and classes students and teachers struggled to get through the syllabus in time to allow for revision and consolidation before the exams.

As parents we want to help our young people achieve their goals, but it can be hard to know where to begin, especially if your child is struggling in an area you know little about yourself.

Enter the era of podcast-learning.

Most teens are familiar and comfortable with podcasts and online audio platforms such as Spotify. Well there are now podcasts on every subject from maths to Spanish and many of them are free or cost a fraction of what a private tutor might set you back.

The BBC are revamping their BBC Bitesize platform (bbc.com/ education) to reflect the content of the new exams. The podcasts are short and offer a mix of text, audio and occasional video clips.

Most importantly they are free to all students with access to a PC. (Some of the content does not work well on a smartphone.)

Mr Allsop History (mrallsophistory.com) is a free History revision website created

by University of Cambridge History 132

graduate and current teacher Scott Allsop. It’s comprehensive and he updates it regularly. There are useful sections on revision skills and exam techniques.

There are also paid-for platforms like Audiopi (audiopi.co.uk) this is an educational resource created by teachers, examiners and academics. It aims to inspire GCSE and A level students with their coursework and revision. They produce exam board –specific audio tutorials for English Literature, English Language, History, Biology, Religious Studies, and Science so far. You can purchase access to one subject or a whole range of subjects for around £5 per month. They even offer a free trial.

One of the most comprehensive platforms is GCSEPOD (gcsepod. com) these are engaging, well thought-out, easy-to-understand podcasts which even tailor their content to specific exam boards.

They get the balance between

‘understandable’ and ‘enough depth’ just right. The good news is that some schools subscribe to this on behalf of their students so check to see whether your child’s school offers this useful resource. Don’t panic if they don’t because you can subscribe as a parent. Access to the full range of subjects will set you back around £200 for the year, but contrast that with private tuition and it looks very reasonable indeed.

One of the most fun (and free resources) for science students is The Naked Scientists (thenakedscientists.com). Their primary aim is to strip science down to its essentials. While not specific to any curriculum it’s an addictive way to gain insight into any difficult-tounderstand parts of the syllabus.

As our teens move towards their GCSEs hopefully these podcasts will provide them with useful and empowering tools for learning. wolverhampton west magazine

A school you need to KNOW ABOUT NOW! Idyllic childhood?

A country school that looks after your child?

Look no further than Birchfield School, which is situated in the rural setting of Albrighton, close to Wolverhampton, and with easy access to the M54. Birchfield offers children a comfortable and secure start in education that can lead to such a bright future. While outdoor activities and sports form a vital part of school life, academic studies are important, too.

We can offer your child a new start in a school with a tradition that goes back years in a nurturing and supportive environment. Why not come and see for yourself what Birchfield School is all about? With an Open Evening for Reception entry for both 2019 and 2020 on Wednesday, 26 September, two Working Open Mornings on Friday,

We have much to celebrate as we start the new academic year.

Our Year 8s left at the end of last term having gained a plethora of academic, sports and arts Scholarships and Awards. They all gained entry to Senior Schools of their choice, including Shrewsbury School, Wrekin College, Repton School and Malvern College.

Years 7 & 8 getting ready for The Ryman Enterprise Challenge in Telford

28 September and Friday, 23 November and an Open Day on Saturday, 7 October there is ample opportunity to get to know us.

Exciting times lie ahead for your child!

Pre-Prep Visit to Essington Farm

Co-educational 4-13 Years

Inspiring young minds and creating a lifelong passion for learning

Open Days Saturday, 13 October 10:00am to 12:30pm Open Day - Headmistress's Address at 10:00am, followed by a tour of the School

Telephone: 01902 372534 Email: dfrost@bircheldschool.co.uk Website: www.bircheldschool.co.uk

Friday, 23 November 10:00am to 12:30pm Working Open Day

Bircheld Preparatory School Harriot's Hayes Lane, Albrighton, Near Wolverhampton, WV7 3AF

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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ST. DOMINIC’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL BREWOOD to welcome Boys in the school year 2018-2019!

We now welcome boys into our Senior School from September 2018.

We believe the school’s heritage, ethos, teaching and reputation, gives them a platform from which to build an even more successful community based Independent School that offers high quality co-educational services for girls and boys from Nursery to 18 years of age.

Headmaster, Peter McNabb commented “I am delighted to be able extend our Senior School offering to boys from September 2018 and I look forward to seeing them all embrace what we at St. Dominic’s Grammar School have to offer. The initial enquiries as to the feasibility of the consideration was very much lead by parents of boys who are currently in our Prep School; after much consideration by myself and our School Management Committee, it was agreed that boys should be offered the opportunity of attending our Senior School and be allowed to become a part of our wider school community. We will be looking at welcoming them into Year 7 and Year 12 for September 2018. This comes at a special time when the Sunday Times has ranked us 25th in the country for 2018.”

The decision to extend the remit to boys in the Senior School was also based on market research, which

acknowledged that schools like St. Dominic’s Grammar School generally thrive upon such decisions.

The school’s next Open Day is on Saturday 13th October, 10.00am to 1.00pm. All families are welcome; if you can’t make these dates but would like to visit the school please email or call the school office who will make an appointment for you.

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

Other key dates are: Open working week – Monday 8th October - Friday 12th October.

Year 7 Entrance Assessment day for September 2019 – Saturday 13th October 2018.

Sixth Form Options Fayre for entry in September 2019 - Tuesday 4th December 6.30pm-8.00pm 2018.

Only when you and your child walk through the doors of the school, can you truly appreciate what it is that makes St. Dominic’s Grammar School in Brewood so very special.

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

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wolverhampton west magazine

ST. DOMINIC’S

GRAMMAR SCHOOL An Independent School educating children aged 2 to 18

WholE School opEn DAy Saturday 13th october 10am – 1pm

year 7 Entrance Examination for entry in 2019 Saturday 13th october For a registration pack please contact the school.

Taking boys in year 7, 8 and the Sixth-Form in September 2019 Please visit our school so you can see for yourselves what a wonderful setting this would be for your child.

For further information or to arrange a visit to the school please contact us on Telephone: (01902) 850248 or Email: secretary@stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Bargate Street, Brewood, South Staffordshire, ST19 9BA www.stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk135

It’s good to talk

- for your future

As the saying goes, the only certainties in life are death and taxes but for some people, talking about money is a taboo subject.

But, with an ageing population, it makes financial and practical sense to tackle those tricky conversations with your parents or, if you’re the one who is getting older, your children.

Will Jones of FBC Manby Bowdler’s Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning Team, discusses the issues you should be talking about:

A will If you only talk about one thing on this list, this should be it. A will clearly states your wishes on how you want your estate to be divided up when you die. From cash assets, to property to furniture, you can stipulate exactly who gets what and, if necessary, why.

A solicitor will ensure that a will is properly drafted and watertight.

Financial planning With people living and working longer and care costs rising, our money needs to work harder for us as we get older. Talk about what plans are in place for retirement, what savings do they have, what are their plans for where they want to live in later years – is downsizing on the cards? If they don’t want to divulge their financial details, put them in touch with a financial expert who specialises in planning for older age.

136

Pensions A pension, aside from property, can be a person’s biggest asset.

Changing jobs and moving house without notifying of a change of address could leave pensions unclaimed. Make sure that all pensions are tracked down and that nomination forms – who will benefit when a person dies – are completed.

Power of Attorney A power of attorney is one of those things people don’t realise they need until it’s too late. You can have two kinds of power of attorney - one for health and welfare and one for your finances. An LPA allows you to choose someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf. With one in three people likely to develop dementia, LPAs are becoming more common but you could need one whatever your age – if you had a car accident, a sudden brain injury or illness, someone needs to be able to take charge of your finances, pay your bills and look after your welfare.

as birth certificates, marriage certificates, National Insurance numbers, and information on their day-to-day financial affairs. If they don’t want to divulge that to you, suggest they write a list and store it somewhere safe, including all-important digital passwords. *Will Jones has experience in a wide range of private client matters and regularly assists clients in the preparation of wills, lasting powers of attorney and all aspects of the administration of estates, including deeds of variation.

FBC Manby Bowdler’s Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning Team were ranked in Band 1 of the Private Client category in the Chambers UK 2017 guide and tier 2 of the Personal Tax, Trusts and Probate Category in the 2017 Legal 500.

Care planning No-one likes the thought of not being able to care for themselves but it’s worth knowing what your loved ones would like to do if they can’t cope. Would they like to be cared for at home? Or would they be happy to go to a nursing home?

And how would they pay for care?

Paperwork Where does someone keep their important paperwork such

Will Jones of FBC Manby Bowdler’s Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning Team

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Personal Services Buying & Selling Property Family, Divorce & Childcare Community Care Clinical Negligence & Serious Injury Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning Disputed Probate Court of Protection Employment Law Motoring Offences

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wolverhampton west magazine

South Staffordshire Golf Club

Great for Golf and Much More…

Prized by its members and praised by visitors, South Staffordshire Golf Club has long been regarded as one of the finest courses in the West Midlands.

Founded in 1892, the club – that’s located just outside the picturesque village of Tettenhall, in Danescourt Road – is set in 160 acres and boasts a 6512 yard par 71 course.

Originally designed by Harry Vardon in 1908, who was one of the greatest players and most influential figures in the early history of the sport, the course has been played and ‘tweaked’ by other golfing greats over the years, 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 standard scratch of 72 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.

“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.”

“We’ll be serving Christmas Fayre from Monday 26th November – Saturday 22nd December, three course festive fayre will cost just

£20 per person at lunchtime or £22 per person in the evening.”

If you’re planning a special event though, you’ll be pleased to know that the club is available to hire for all private functions, including weddings, small parties, Christenings and wakes.

So, whether you’re keen to enjoy a great round or golf, treat yourself to a delicious meal or maybe find the perfect venue for that special occasion, you’re sure to discover just what you’re looking for at South Staffordshire Golf Club.

A warm friendly welcome awaits whether you currently have a handicap or are a complete beginner COUNTRY MEMBERSHIP

FULL 7 DAY MEMBERSHIP

FLEXIBLE MEMBERSHIP

20 miles + away

7 day memberships available plus other membership categories

Local and only play occasionally?

Unlimited golf at South Staffs for £500 per annum

A voucher based membership – 10 x 18 holes and 10 x 9 holes £500

All the above membership categories are subject to affiliation fees

SPECIAL WINTER WARMERS OFFER

18 holes of golf including hot bap only £25pp 1st October to 31st March 2019 - must be pre-booked

The club is available for hire for all private functions

For more details please contact our Club Manager, Sue LeBeau on 01902 751065 or email suelebeau@southstaffsgc.co.uk

The South Staffordshire Golf Club, Danescourt Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9BQ Tel: 01902 751065

@SouthStaffsgc

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

/SouthStaffsGolfClub www.southstaffordshiregolfclub.co.uk

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Kevin Allan, Tim Davies, Richard Bourne, Martin Chalk

Mark Bandurak, Julie Tew, Dave Bond, Mike Mandzuk, Mick Rawlins

Wergs Golf Club Wolverhampton Grand Theatre organised a golf day at Wergs Golf Club on 5th July, sponsored

by PIA Wealth Management. The funds raised during the event will help enable the Grand to reach more people through the magic of theatre by providing services and activities for the local community. The golf day not only supported this important service, but also provided an opportunity to make business connections and build brand awareness at a relaxed and fun event.

(Winning team) Melvyn Wilton, Martyn Rylance, Richard Hinton, Wayne Dickson, with Vicky Price from Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

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Mick Harris, Guy Birkett, Gareth Ruddock, Peter Towler

Nigel Moorhouse, Steve Banks, Jon Hill, Monty Moseley

Andy Elwell, Steve Bull, Mark Copson, Suresh Bawa

Richard Castle, Graham Tomlinson, David Evans, Dave Evans

wolverhampton west magazine

WERGS GOLF CLUB

NEW MEMBERSHIP OFFERS ( A g e r e l At e d p r i c e s )

5 year membership plan YEAR 1, YEAR 2 AND YEAR 3 PAY FULL PRICE

YEAR 4 AND 5 – PAY HALF PRICE* *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

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

prices correct at time of going to print 141

The Lexus LS has always been somewhat of a rarity on UK roads.

At a time when options for enthusiastic car buyers are dwindling fast, it remains, as ever, a towering example of how and why you need not and should not copy your neighbours – that is assuming they can also afford a wellspec’d LS which costs nigh on £100,000, of course.

Ever since it was launched back in 1989 the flagship saloon has nonetheless tirelessly gone about its business for Lexus, quietly refining principle values, quietly laying down the gauntlet. Despite being up against the superlative Mercedes S Class it has stuck to its guns and refused to copy the far more financially successful formula laid down by the Germans.

Lexus UK expects to sell only 100 each year. This is a staggeringly low-volume vehicle (compared to the Mercedes S Class: 2500 per year). The original Lexus LS arrived after 1,400 engineers toiled for six solid years in an effort to build a luxury car that would rival the best in the world. Today, almost nothing has changed. Parent company Toyota may be synonymous with super-efficient automation but in making the LS Lexus has taken a softer, more artisan approach to many facets of both design and execution.

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www.select1automotive.co.uk 142

by Rob Taylor

Lexus LS

I’m immediately impressed by the radical new exterior design: lower, wider and longer than the last, this coupelike silhouette has all the spaciousness of a prestige saloon inside – it is the very best of both worlds. The design of the new LS’s interior combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with advanced manufacturing techniques, and it’s reflected in elements such as the soft ambient lighting that makes the armrests appear to float next to the door panels. The driver-focused cockpit wraps you up in a sea of the finest elements: fine leather, detailed metal and wood accents all add to a welcoming ambience.

There are four trim levels to choose from, but even entrylevel cars get a full-bodied suite of safety equipment, dual-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, 20” alloy wheels, an infotainment system complete with a 12.3” display, a host of concierge services and a 360-degree camera system as standard.

The ride quality on air suspension (standard except on entry-level models) is peerless and guaranteed to astonish. The 295bhp 3.5 litre V6 has no turbocharger but is boosted by a hybrid system to produce a ‘total system output’ of 354bhp. It powers either the rear or all four wheels and is more than able to hustle what is a decidedly heavy vehicle. Despite its bulk however the LS is accurate and quite composed in long corners.

The LS is literally staggering to behold. If only I was one of the 100… wolverhampton west magazine

Winter

Tyres

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

winter conditions due to innovative winter tyre technology.

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

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

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

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

2. Improved performance and safety – more control in

you on the right ones for you.

Not only that, whilst using your winter tyres, we offer a ‘Tyre Hotel’ service. Your summer tyres will be labelled and safely stored on our premises until you need them again. Contact us for further information.

For more information on winter tyres, including our tyre hotel, please contact Simon, Mac or Hayley at HiQ Wolverhampton on 01902 420234.

HiQ Wolverhampton.

Keeping you safe on the roads this winter.

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Aerial Photography 61 iSky Media Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel 137 Image Luxury Travel Appliances Electrical & Gas 43 Capital Appliance Centre Bathrooms Bathrooms 19 Eaton Kitchens 21 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 33 Wall Heath Bathrooms 27 Beauty Salons & Clinics 101 BooshTox Cosmetique Aesthetic Clinic 100 Heaven Skin Care 88/89 94/95 Luminaire Beds & Bedroom Furniture Cousins 8/9 Leekes 23 Merridale Furnishers 17 Bedroom Wardrobes (fitted) 33 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Merridale Furnishers 17 The Fabric Barn 13 35 Val Hever Blinds Building Services & Contractors Three Pines 38/39 Building Societies Dudley Building Society 59 Butchers 66 Allan Bennett Poxons 66 Caravan Accessories Cannock Caravan Accessories 63 Car Body Repairs Elite 144 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists Touch Dry 35 Carpets & Flooring - Supply & Fit 37 Premier Carpets 13 Sandford Carpets Car Sales & Service Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton 147 Chiropody & Podiatry Foot Therapy 99 Cleaning Services – Interior & Exterior Able Facilities Services 53 RC Cleaning 51 Composite Doors Doorsmart 47 Computer Services Finchfield IT 65 Delicatessen Corbelli 64 Dentistry Parkdale Implants 2 Willows Dental & Implant Centre 113 Diet & Slimming Cambridge Diet 102 Domiciliary Care Services Quality Home Care 64 Driveways Resindrives.co.uk 25

Education 133 Birchfield School Newbridge School 130 St. Dominics School 135 Wolverhampton Grammar School 127 Electricians & Electrical Contractors 20 Central Electrical Contracts Entertainment & Leisure RAF Museum Cosford 129 Estate Agents 11 Berriman Eaton Fashion - Retail Aristocats 96/97 Fencing & Gates Profence 52 Financial Advisors Midland Independent Financial Services 14/15 Fireplaces & Stoves Flaming Fires 21 Wolverhampton Fireplaces 17 Firewood Black Country Firewood 55 Fitness & Leisure Centres Chris Jewkes Fitness 93 South Staffordshire Leisure 107 Furniture & Furnishings Cousins 8/9 Leekes 23 17 Merridale Furnishers Sofa Factory Outlet 31 Gaming & Entertainment Casino 36 76 Garage Services HiQ Tyres 143 Garden Design Boningale Garden Creations 57 Gardening & Landscaping Lealans Garden Centre 56 53 Potting Shed Glazing Repairs 51 Blakes Glass & Glazing Golf Clubs 139 South Staffordshire Golf Club Wergs Golf Club 141 Health Care Cover Paycare 109 Hospices 85 Compton Hospice Hospitals – Private Nuffield 110 Hotels Park House Hotel 75 The Mount Hotel 71 Italian Deli Corbelli’s 64 Jewellers Rudell The Jewellers 148 T.A.Henn 6/7 Kitchen Doors - Replacement Dream Doors 27 Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit Carvers 19 29 Bespoke Kitchens Dream Doors 27 Eaton Kitchens 21 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 33

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Legal Services 137 Manby Bowdler Solicitors Letting Agents 11 Berriman Eaton Lighting Lighting R Us 20 Locksmiths 51 Cummings Brothers Loft Ladders Lyndale 13 Markets 67 Penkridge Market Music Shops Music 2000 65 Music Lessons 45 Midland Music Academy Opticians Taylor Biddle 91 Orthopaedic Surgery Wolverhampton Hip & Knee Clinic 102 Painters & Decorators Kevin Jackson 52 Personal Stylist Styling You 102 Photography Andrews Creative 64 Crescent Imaging 64 Plumbing & Heating JB Plumbing & Heating 52 Property Maintenance Services S. Parton Building Maintenance 49 Racecourses Wolverhampton Racecourse 79 Restaurants/Pubs 3 Hammers Bar & Bistro 83 Casino 36 76 Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 73 Oakley Arms 74 Park House Hotel 75 The Mount Hotel 71 75 The Shrewsbury Arms Wolverhampton Racecourse 79 77 Wombourne Tandoori Skip Hire Wolverhampton Skip Hire 53 Stairs & Stair Components Lyndale 13 Taxis ABC Cars 48 Tennis & Squash Clubs Wolverhampton LawnTennis & Squash Club 103 Tiles & Interiors Tile Choice 5 Tyres HiQ Tyres 143 Vehicle Finishing Specialists Select1 Automotive 142 Vein Clinics Simon Hobbs 98 Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 73 Wedding Venues Davenport House 70 Park House Hotel 75 The Mount Hotel 71 Windows, Conservatories, Orangeries Tettenhall Windows 29

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Never stop improving

Here at Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, we’re pleased to welcome the refreshed C-Class range, where there’s a model so suit everyone.

Never stop improving. That’s the philosophy behind the dynamic new C-Class, which offers more comfort, more innovation, and more style than ever before.

more to this remarkable vehicle - from its eye-catching styling to its cutting-edge connectivity.

Enjoy the outdoors in the C-Class Cabriolet with its effortless style.

Combining head-turning looks with exceptional comfort, the new C-Class Cabriolet is a celebration of pure driving pleasure. Thanks to AIRSCARF neck level heating you can even enjoy top-down motoring in cooler conditions.

Finally relish every journey in the new C-Class Coupé, which blends dramatic two-door style

with exhilarating handling and performance. The sporty interior, packed with the latest MercedesBenz innovations, completes an unforgettable driving experience.

Make sure you follow us on Twitter and Facebook, simply search for Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton to stay up to date on the latest news. To book a test drive in any of the new C-Class range, phone us on 01902 276977, visit our website at lookers.co.uk/Mercedes-Benz or simply call in and see us.

Firstly there’s the new C-Class Saloon, which is the complete package. Athletic looks, agile handling, efficient performance, and a raft of advanced technologies to maximise your comfort, safety and driving enjoyment. In every department, the new C-Class Saloon exceeds expectations.

If you need a little more space, the new C-Class Estate is the perfect fit.

It features a generous load capacity and intelligent design, the new C-Class Estate offers practicality in abundance. But there’s so much

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV2 4HD 146

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The new C-Class range One car, endless possibilities

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton Penn Road, Wolverhampton WV2 4HD Call us on 01902 276977

Lookers.co.uk/Mercedes-Benz

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the Mercedes-Benz range: urban 14.2(19.9)-62.8(4.5), extra urban 25.9(10.9)-72.4(3.9), combined 19.9(14.2)-68.9(4.1). CO2 emissions 325-108g/km. The indicated values were determined according to the prescribed measurement method. These are the “NEDC CO2 values� according to Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). For more information on these values and how they have been calculated please see www.mercedesbenz.co.uk/WLTP

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wolverhampton west magazine