Wolverhampton West Magazine

October 2016

Win a meal for 2 people at The Park House Shifnal and arrive in style Win tickets to see a Tale of Two Cities at The Grand Theatre Win tickets for The Magic of Motown at Wolverhampton Civic Hall Win a relaxing float experience with Float World

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Contents October Edition The local property market by Nick Berriman 10 Tettenhall Heritage Centre 14 Inheritance Tax 16/17 Carver Wolverhampton Marathon 18 Crosswords and puzzles 24 Home Interiors 28/29 Recipe of the month 34 Bygone Bilston 36 Wolverhampton Young Citizen of the Year 38 Our Kid Sam 44 Brewood Woggle 48 Grand Theatre competition 50 Gardening with Ann Winwood 56 How to perfect that green green grass at home 57 West Midlands Police 62 Wolverhampton Art Gallery Exhibition 64 Best Foot Forward produces another £18,500 for charities 66 Magic of Motown competition 68 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

Blooming lovely at Smestow School 70 Codsall girl to represent England in karate championships 70 Walk for Dreams 76 Win a meal for two at the The Park House Hotel 78 Book early for Christmas 82 Food Review – 3 Hammers Bar & Bistro 86/87 Wedding symbols and superstitions 96/97 Essential planning for your big day: Hair and Beauty 100 Autumn Style at Royston Blythe 106/107 Women’s Fashion: Accessories for autumn 110/111 Mind Babble: Fear or Phobia 116 Float World competition 122 Royston Blythe treat Harry’s mum to a makeover 124 Toms Tip 127 Education and Schooling 136 Meet the boss 142/143 Golf Tip 144 Social scene 146-153 Mercedes Star Tech 156 Suzuki delivers high fuel economy in What Car? Tests 158 Answers to crosswords and puzzles 160 Index to advertisers 161 Mercedes Benz of Wolverhampton- GLC Coupé 162

Congratulations to: Winner of The Shawshank Redemption competition at The Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Mr Philip Murphy, Brewood Winners of Cosford Food Festival competition Mrs S Martin, Claregate Mr Mark Waite, Bishops Wood Janice Newey, Penn

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 24,500 copies across 2 months

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from the editor

In these turbulent postBrexit times – when we are all stuffing cash into mattresses faster than the Queen on Spitting Image and wondering if the latest drop of cheap French plonk will be our last – us Brits need to rely on routine to provide continuity and comfort – oh, and our worldfamous sense of humour.

In the forthcoming pages you’ll find much of the above and more. One hearty read will put you at ease and tickle your funny bone just enough to make it as though we never voted, “see EU later.” The clocks may be about to go back, but that’s one decision we won’t be able to take back in a hurry. Our decision to vote ‘leave’ certainly did the trick for our Olympic athletes in Rio, who managed our most successful Olympics ever abroad. Whoever would have guessed they’d finish holding more gold than even the Bank of England is right now? That’s one scary stat: not “Halloween-scary” – yes readers, do brace yourselves because our annual fright-fest is raising its ugly head soon. One man who has a fantastic record of leaving Europe swiftly is former England football boss Roy Hodgson. Dudley-born “Big” Sam Allardyce is the latest incumbent and you can read all about him in our profile piece. Sticking with football, it’s all change at Molineux with both a new manager and a new owner. In this edition we usher in much newness also, by welcoming new advertisers Dixon’s, a longstanding Wolverhampton-based decorating firm; Frith Rugs; Black Country Firewood; and beauty magnate, Deborah Mitchell. For a familiar face in local business, read all about Carvers’ top dog, Henry Carver, in our Meet the Boss feature. Our Henry has lent 04

his name to Wolverhampton’s answer to the Olympics, the Carver Wolverhampton Marathon, once again this year and you can read all about news from last month’s event inside. There’s also big news from Beauty Rooms in Penn, which has for the second year running bagged the prestigious Clarins Gold Salon of the Year Award. Plus, we have beauty tips galore, including how to defy Mother Nature with Deborah Mitchell’s ‘Heaven’ anti-ageing skincare range, as well as advice and solutions of a more immediate nature from Nuffield Health. Can’t afford it? Take out a Paycare plan to help manage the cost. Now that holiday season is over and you’ve finally got the kids out from under your feet and back to school you may be thinking of titivating your home: if so, you won’t want to miss our advice on everything to do with moving you from the summer to the autumn season; from curtains, fireplaces, and kitchens to bathrooms, windows and conservatories, you’re covered. We even have advice on trusty trades-people to help you realise your dreams. Stepping outside into your garden instead? Then check-out Boningale and Lealans garden centres.

There’s much to do with autumn fashion and beauty inside as well, from Aristocrats for women and unisex offerings from Diffusion. And if you are readying for a wedding: we’ve advice on venues, superstitions, cutting-edge hairstyles and even who to look to if you want your wedding to finish with fireworks – that’s Fire Monkey Pyro, by the way. Needless to say that if you want to book them for a party on November 5th, you’d better light a fire underneath yourself and get a wriggle on. Sparkling in its own inimitable way is Royston Blythe, as the celebrity hairdressers show a charitable face. Promise Walk continues the theme. And we’re feeling generous also, so get involved in our four competitions – one of which comes from Tettenhallbased Float World and gives you a chance to win that which even money can’t buy: stress-free living. Like always looking on the bright side, you know it stands to reason. And I’d vote for it. See you in December…

Geoff

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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The local

property market by Nick Berriman

general feeling is that things will settle down in the coming months.

This is my first article since the result of the referendum has been known and I think the most topical subject for me to address is what effect Brexit has had on the property market. During the campaign the Remainers accused the Leavers of fabricating many of their claims whilst the Leavers accused the Remainers of scaremongering. So who had it right and what effect has it had? I think it is much too early to assess the benefits or the damage as we still have no idea whether our exit negotiations will be as we hope or as those across the water threaten. However as always many self appointed experts have been quick to make their claims and counter claims with several prophets of doom predicting a very rocky future for the residential property market. We are now hearing more authentic reports of what has happened. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors released their Residential Market Survey for July which showed that there had been a definite slowing of price inflation and that their members had reported a lower level of enquiries, agreed sales and new instructions. London had been most affected and it was not clear whether the slowdown was due to Brexit or recent tax changes. Some have said the market has actually picked up after an initial wobble whereas others report that Brexit had a modest or negligible effect. Agents report that stock levels are low and the 10

The nationwide agent JacksonStops and Staff measured properties for sale nationally on the day of the referendum and then again on 8th August when they found that the number of properties on the market had risen by 1.7% and the number under offer had fallen by 2.3%. They say that the market has weakened slightly after the Brexit result but there is usually a slowdown during the holiday period and the figures do not indicate a crisis and the housing market continues to be resilient. Another estate agent, haart, says that their data shows that exchanges of contract were up 6.5% in July compared with June but down 18.2% from July last year. Average sale prices were down slightly but in London down 5.6%. In their view although there is still some uncertainty in the property market and the wider economy the cut in interest rates should see mortgage rates falling even further and before long the market will bounce back. I have a sneaking suspicion that those who wanted to leave will do their best to paint a rosy picture and those who wanted to remain will be looking for the down side. Reports and predictions of the present health and future outlook of the property market have always differed widely. So often we read stories which differ from what we are experiencing in our everyday business. This is partly due to regional variations and our area over the years has been fortunate to avoid the extremes of boom and bust. Of course we have seen ups and downs but we have never hit the high spots or plumbed the lowest depths. One major change in recent years has been the way in which London has become divorced from the rest of the country. We used to expect the rest of the country would follow London trends about six months later but that is no longer the case. London is affected by special demand, by foreign investment

and recently by tax changes which have hit the top end of the market. It could of course be that recent goings on with the Wolves could mean an influx of buyers from China and Portugal but I doubt if that will have a significant effect! I have always thought that the most reliable way that we can reflect the state of the market is not by listening to national commentators but by analysing what we are finding in our day to day business. We have found that there was some immediate anxiety and that there was the odd withdrawal from purchase and in one significant sale the purchaser putting things on hold for a time to see what happens to the economy. Other than that the market is continuing. The most recent results to hand as I write are for July when both agreed sales and instructions have been much the same as usual. August is proving rather quiet but that is probably due to holidays and is not unusual. One interesting statistic is that July was a record month for our rental department who agreed about 25% more lettings than average. This could be interpreted to mean that in uncertain times more people are choosing to rent rather than to buy (or it could just mean that we have a very good rental department!) I think the final verdict is that for the present time the market is fairly stable, we are not expecting boom times and we will not really know what is to happen in the long term until our exit negotiations are concluded.

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

NORTHWOOD, TETTENHALL, WV6 8SJ A magnificent and attractive residence providing stunning and well proportioned accommodation over three storeys with a total area in excess of 4,200 sq.ft, standing in a large plot within one of the most highly regarded addresses in the locality. Appointed to the highest of standards with high-end technology and a particularly notable kitchen / living room. Reception hall, cloakroom, through drawing room, dining room, living dining / kitchen, butlers kitchen, five bedrooms, four bath / shower rooms and a study area. Large driveway, garage and double garage which is currently used as a leisure room and a superb rear garden. (EPC: D). NO UPWARD CHAIN.

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Elm ROAD, AlbRIGhtON, NEAR WOlVERhAmptON, ShROpShIRE A well presented, three bedroom semi-detached house with views over open farmland to the front, standing well back from the road within easy walking distance of the centre of this sought after location. Porch, hall, lounge, beautifully appointed kitchen, three bedrooms and a recently re-fitted house bathroom. Front and rear gardens, detached garage and car parking space to the rear. (EPC: C).

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Tettenhall Transport

Heritage Centre

An exhibition has been put together to mark the 250th anniversary of work starting on the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal and the 300th anniversary of the birth of the canal’s engineer/supervisor James Brindley. The Tettenhall Transport Heritage Centre, based in the former goods shed at the former Tettenhall Station, Meadow View, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, have it on display on Sundays 10am-4pm. The centre is also close to the canal which links the Trent and Mersey Canal (started in Stokeon-Trent in the same year – 1766) at Great Haywood, near Stafford, to the River Severn at Stourport.

Like most building projects, work actually started long before any ‘official’ start or sod-cutting etc with thinking about the route to be taken (very similar to one suggested by Wolverhampton doctor Thomas Congreve half a century earlier). Brindley usually did this on horseback, kept the details in his head, and then relayed them to his assistants. The levelling book of the under clerk of works, John Green, shows a “leveling survey from a stake at Autherley Moores towards the Trent

began on 16th July, 1766” and he “did leveling at Tettenhall with Samuel Simcock on 22nd July.” However, details of any official first sod cutting ceremony are absent unlike for the Trent and Mersey where Josiah Wedgwood cut the first sod, Brindley another and local dignitaries joined in with more and wheeled barrows of them away.

This was followed by roasting a whole sheep in Burslem Market Place to distribute to the poor Potters and a bonfire in front of Josiah Wedgwood’s Burslem House. Quite a few later accounts suggest that the ‘real’ start was on the lock at Compton on September 1, 1766 – and that this became the template lock for the rest of Brindley’s locks on the canal system. The Birmingham Gazette of the following week (September 8) carries notice of a meeting to be held that month “as work on the canal has begun” but was there a sod-cutting ceremony/event – or did they just get on with it? Any possible answers would be gratefully received by Jim Barrow (email: jimdrudge@ aol.com. Telephone 01902 831199 (home) or 07970 463434 (mobile) or by mail to 266, Henwood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 8NZ.

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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INHERITANCE

T A X SomE INTERESTINg FACTS oN INHERITANCE TAX

Following last month’s article, “Inheritance Tax – The Only True Voluntary Tax”, we have received numerous phone calls from readers wishing to discuss the matter further, looking to minimise the figure that they, or rather their estate will pay, at some point in the future. 16

And we can all be certain that that point will arise because as Benjamin Franklin once said “The only things in life that are certain are Death and Taxes”. Death is a foregone conclusion, but I would argue that in the vast majority of cases an IHT liability is not. IHT is not a newcomer by any means and it has been around in one form or another for over 220 years, but I never cease to be amazed at how little the “average” man knows about

Inheritance Tax, and I have come to the conclusion that people turn a blind eye to it because it is associated with death. Various surveys over the last few years have illustrated the fact that the vast majority of people are not aware of the current IHT threshold, and almost one third of homeowners aged 70 plus haven’t considered estate planning or IHT mitigation on their death. More estates were caught

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

John Webb

by IHT last year than in any year since the early Thatcher years. This year the Government will take an estimated £4.6 billion in taxes from estates. This is almost double the amount taken in 2009/10. More than 400 estates owed more than £1 million in tax. It is perhaps not surprising that more IHT was paid in London and the South East than in the rest of the country put together, since property prices are considerably higher and there is a high concentration of business wealth. One in 20 estates pay IHT and it is estimated that this figure will be one in 10 by 2019. Because men tend to predecease women, men do not pay as much in IHT. This is because the surviving spouse of a married couple can be left all of the deceased’s assets, tax free. This means that couples often pay tax on all their assets only when the second one dies. There are many ways in which an IHT liability can be reduced. Placing life insurance policies in trust is only one, but it is estimated that £530 million is set to be wasted in IHT this year by those who fail to place policies in trust. It is also a widely held belief that to avoid IHT you need to either gift away your wealth or lose control, which is certainly not an action I would endorse as there are ways in which to alleviate IHT whilst retaining full control of your assets.

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.

As mentioned earlier, with the vast majority of the population, a considerable part of their wealth is the family home, and again with careful planning there are ways to either reduce or eliminate the IHT liability. Judging by the response to the article in the last edition the subject of Inheritance tax seems to be one that is of great interest to readers. Should any reader wish to discuss this, or indeed any other financial topic, then please contact this office and either I or one of my fellow advisers will be pleased to answer any enquiry you may have.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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

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

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

CARVER Wolverhampton Marathon Events On Sunday 4th September more than 2000 competitors took to the streets of Wolverhampton to be part of the 19th Carver Wolverhampton Marathon Events.

They ran, cycled and walked, all for the same cause that is to raise money for local charities. This year the charities set to benefit from a share of the proceeds are Compton Hospice, The Haven, Wolverhampton Rheumatology Support Group and The Mayoral Charity Fund. Representatives of the charities joined the hundreds of spectators in West Park to watch everyone return, tired, weary, but pleased to have completed their chosen event. The organisers were pleased to see all their months of planning fall into place and the newly designed course seemed to be well received by those who took part. Race Director Mary Harding thanks the planning committee for their hard work in pulling everything together to make the largest sporting event in the city another huge success. Mary also thanks the loyal Sponsors; Carvers, Marston’s, Cousins, Call Print. NJB Sports & Physio, Greggs, WV Active, Angel Springs and many more supporters without whom the events would lack the high profile it has achieved. It will be a few months until all the monies raised will be handed in and counted and in December the Planning Committee, together with invited guests will head to the Mayor’s Parlour to hand over the cheques.

Paul Green completed 13 marathons in 13 days, pictured with Race Director and Chair of planning committee Mary Harding

Michelle Caldwell, Sharon Caldwell, Amanda Caldwell, Jaida Caldwell (front)

Left to right: Women’s Full Marathon prize presentation. Dicky Dodd, Sunny Calitz-Patel, Michaela Owen, Rachel Green, Wolverhampton Mayor, Councillor Barry Findlay, Henry Carver

Plans will soon be underway for the 20th anniversary of the Events.

Runners at the start of the Marathon

Left to right: Men’s Full Marathon prize presentation. Dicky Dodd, Khristian Morgan, Mark Carwardine, Robert Beech, Wolverhampton Mayor, Councillor Barry Findlay, Henry Carver

For more details please visit our website: www.carverwolverhamptonmarathonevents.co.uk 18

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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The addition of a new rug can be the final piece of the interior design jigsaw, the finishing touch to your room. Or, it could be your starting point, with everything else in the room selected to complement your rug. If you have been feeling uninspired by what’s available you have obviously never visited FrithRugs, Cannock, where you can choose from over 15,000 rugs in stock. The rugs are displayed in an incredible purpose built 17,000 sq. ft. showroom which means you will be spoilt for choice. FrithRugs, Cannock, has been serving the population of Staffordshire for over 17 years and this family-run business prides itself on an exceptionally high level of customer service delivered by expert and knowledgeable staff. FrithRugs offers exclusively designed contemporary rugs that you won’t find anywhere else and is also renowned for its staggering choice of traditional rugs from China, Persia, India and Pakistan. The company also offers a bespoke rug service which allows consumers and businesses to design their own individual rugs.

ALL EYES ON THE FLOOR “If the rug is going to be the focal point of the room, choose something bold and really go for it. Don’t forget that when you are purchasing a rug for an existing room take into account colours already present in your upholstery and curtains. Take a swatch of fabric and our expert staff will help ensure colours in your rug complement your existing decoration. MAKE YOUR BIG ROOM COSY “In very large rooms, use rugs to define certain areas. Use a rug in the seating area and leave the rest of the floor bare – this will clearly define and zone areas of the room. DON’T BE SUCH A SQUARE! “Think outside the box. Rugs don’t have to be rectangular. There are some great circular rugs available as well as runners, square rugs and even octagonal rugs. And don’t forget that some rugs will look just as good on the wall as they will on the floor.

“If you like your home décor to be bang on trend, then adding a new rug is one of the quickest and easiest ways to update your room for the new season. “This autumn/winter one of the hottest interior design colours around is sharkskin grey. It is one of the most flexible colours you can choose for you home because it is such a neutral colour which will complement any other colour. It is also really modern and works well in a contemporary home. “Navy and light blue are also going to be popular. We like dark blue when you want to add a touch of drama to a room – and we especially recommend it with white. Pale blue will of course work with many other pastel colours and is a good shade for bedrooms. “Mustard or terracotta are lovely colours to have at home when the darker nights are drawing in. These colours add warmth and elegance and are perfect for classic rooms – think drawing room or dining room.” For more information, visit www.frithrugs.co.uk or telephone 0845 4 900 600.

With thousands of rugs in all shapes, sizes and colours, Andrew Frith, from FrithRugs, shares some of his top tips for finding the right rug. 20

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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Fireplaces

at Flaming Fires “We’re proud to be the main agent for premium brand, Chesney’s of London, who manufacture high quality fireplaces, stoves, gas and electric products.” Associated with the brand for fifteen years, the team are Chesney experts: “We work on many projects with Chesney’s and have a real in-depth product knowledge of the exclusive brand.” When it comes to fitting your new fireplace or stove you can trust that the team at Flaming Fires will carry out the job professionally and efficiently.

Bringing warmth and style to every property - and providing the perfect place for family and friends to gather - the fireplace makes every home complete. And now that the cold winter days are fast approaching, it’s the ideal time of year to invest in a quality fireplace or stove that’ll not only serve to keep you cosy, but update your home interior too. When it comes to buying a fireplace or stove, it’s important to find a company that is able to give you all the advice you’ll need to find the product that’ll be perfect for you. Fortunately, the experts at Wombourne-based business, Flaming Fires, are on-hand to help. Established in 1990, the familyrun company has earned an excellent reputation and is well known for its commitment to supplying only quality products. 22

Delivering the best in customer service, the team - that’s remained the same since the business began - call on their extensive experience in the trade to provide clients with a superior level of service. As owner, Jane Southall, explains: “Buying a fireplace is an investment, so you need to carefully consider which product will be best for you both now and in the future. It’s also important to ensure that you make your purchase from a reputable supplier.”

“We take care of all aspects of installation and you can rest assured that all of our expert engineers are either GasSafe or HETAS registered.” Whether you’re seeking a statement fireplace or energy efficient stove, you’ll find just what you’re looking for at the showroom. “Our selection of fireplaces and stoves are perfect for any style of property - traditional or modern,” adds Jane. So, why not make your living room complete this winter with a fabulous new fireplace from Flaming Fires?

Always keen to offer honest and professional advice to their customers, the team take time to ensure that the fireplace or stove they recommend will provide maximum benefits. Selling many unique and exclusive brands from their beautiful three storey Georgian showroom in the heart of the village, Flaming Fires is complete with all manner of styles of gas, electric and solid fuel stoves and fireplaces. wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

FLAMING FIRES, FIREPLACES & STOVES

Here at Flaming Fires, we look forward to the long winter evenings.....

• Contemporary and traditional designs • The only approved CHESNEY’S stockist in the area • Quality fireplaces at realistic prices • Established over 20 years High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DP (ON THE VILLAGE GREEN)

01902 898221 www.flamingfires.co.uk

be We w i l l days open 7 n f ro m S u t 16th Oc

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• Family run business celebrating over 35 years in business • Massive warehouse with roll stock comprising of over 90 rolls in stock • Karndean, Laminates and Wood Flooring

• Vinyls • Bigger than it looks • Personalised gifts • Clocks • Kadai recycled Firebowls (ideal for barbecues)

We have now moved inside Sandford Carpets, Wolverhampton Curtains, Blinds, Stock Rolls of Curtain and Upholstery Fabric and Pattern Books You will find us at: 128 Trysull Road, Bradmore, Wolverhampton WV3 7JF Tel: 01902 335599 Open: Mon 10am – 1pm, Tues to Sat 9am – 5pm, Sun 1pm – 4pm

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Quick Crossword Across 1 Main roof beams (7) 5 More (5) 8 Fabric or cloth (7) 9 Doing words (5) 10 Long, narrow hilltop (5) 11 Anguish (7) 12 One score (6) 14 Out of the country (6) 17 Timid (7) 19 Goes up (5) 22 Perfect (5) 23 Unsuccessful (7) 24 Distinguished (5) 25 Brighter (7)

Sudoku

Down 1 Helicopter blade (5) 2 Mended (5) 3 Apparent (7) 4 Not moving (6) 5 Impish fairies (5) 6 Whirlwind (7) 7 Confident (7) 12 Tightness (7) 13 Sincere (7) 15 On fire (7) 16 Practical (6) 18 Lubricated (5) 20 Crouch down (5) 21 Pointed weapon (5)

Easy

Hard

Puzzle answers on page 160

Word Search Find the words below in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a phrase.

Arabian

Palomino

Bay

Pinto

Bit

Pony

Bronco

Racehorse

Chestnut Clydesdale Colt Filly Foal

Reins Saddle Shire Stallion

Gallop

Steed

Gelding

Suffolk

Mare

Thoroughbred

Mustang

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MINT JULEP

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of your search for quality bi-folding doors with a unique 20 year guarantee Open spaces, fresh air, big skies, complete freedom with no barriers. Just some of the advantages of having Origin bi-fold doors, not to mention that engineered into every Origin product is unrivalled durability, long term performance and of course an elegant and stylish design. Origin uses a premium grade energy efficient aluminium as it is a strong and durable material, yet enables the frames to be narrow and aesthetically pleasing. Interestingly aluminium is by far the most recycled material in manufacturing and an astonishing 75% of all aluminium sourced in the 1880s is still in use today. Because 26

TRAFALGAR BLUE

of its hard wearing powder coated finishes, one of the ways of making a statement is through the choice of colour you select. You could be forgiven for thinking there is only anthracite grey, white or black options, but there are over 150 RAL colours to choose from including blues, greens even pink, or as we call it Marilynâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lipstick. So itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth considering your colour options if you are looking for the wow factor.

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Transform your home with a few simple changes If you’re fed up with dated décor, tired furniture and a neglected garden, why not make some changes this autumn that are sure to transform your home? Wow with Wallpaper Wallpaper is a massive home interior trend at the moment and can instantly update your room. With so many different colours, designs and styles to choose from wallpaper allows you to easily modify the feel of any space in your home, adding instant style and creating a luxurious finish. So, if you want to modernise your room but don’t want to spend a fortune, simply keep your current furnishings and swap plain walls for wallpaper.

Add Accessories and Swap Soft Furnishings It only takes just a few carefully chosen accessories to give your room a different feel.

Swap clutter and mismatched ornaments for just a few statement pieces that embody the look you want to create. If your sofa is looking tired don’t replace it, simply update it with a quality set of stylish scatter cushions or a cosy throw. Adding a new rug - which coordinates with the cushions - will finish the look perfectly.

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

And, you can avoid picking up a paintbrush by investing in a new set of curtains or blinds to really refresh your room.

Get Lighting Right Lighting is so important when it comes to styling your newlook room - a dim bulb in a dusty lampshade won’t do any improvement justice, so it’s crucial to get it right. You can use light fittings to not only illuminate your home, making it look bright and inviting, but create a beautiful focal point too. Choosing an opulent chandelier will instantly add glamour, whereas an industrial style shade will be the perfect addition to a contemporary interior.

Make the Most of Mirrors To make an instant and striking improvement to any room, add a mirror. Positioning a mirror to reflect either artificial or natural light brightens a small room and gives the illusion of space. The results will be amazing.

Don’t Forget the Garden It’s easy to neglect your garden, but making a few simple changes not only makes maintenance easy but allows you to enjoy your outside space all year round. Think of your garden as an extension of your home interior, rather than separate from it, that way you’ll make design a priority. Simple designs are best and most effective. Keep patios clean and tidy

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

and add planters filled with a variety of plants and flowers for colour. Keep grassed areas well shaped and use chippings to keep your gardening work load to a minimum. Create extra living space by investing in some garden furniture - there’s nothing better than moving dining outside in the summer months.

Buy Local Because there are so many fantastic independent local stores that supply unique, quality products at surprisingly reasonable prices, there’s no need to travel far to find everything you’ll need to make your home look gorgeous this autumn. So why not give the high street a miss and check out what our advertisers have to offer today?

Dixons

Everything for the decorator

“We have another large location in Wolverhampton, in the Builder’s Village in Carvers, that covers an area of 5,000 square feet. We moved into Carvers two years ago this October and the site is open to both the trade and public.” Undoubtedly the biggest decorating stores in Wolverhampton, Dixons has something for every budget - from quality value ranges to the best luxury collections. “Many people think that buying from discount stores is the best way to re-decorate on a budget but often the products just aren’t up to the job. Our ranges represent excellent value-formoney and you can be confident that they’ll perform well, whatever the job you’re undertaking.” As well as all the usual paint varieties you’d expect, such as emulsions and gloss, Dixon’s also sells floor paint, exterior paint, as well as specialist varieties, like fire resistant paint.

Established in 1854, S. J. Dixon and Son Ltd has a long history in Wolverhampton. Known for providing exceptional customer service and offering an extensive range of quality painting and decorating supplies, the family-run business - that’s now in its fifth generation - has become synonymous with quality.

including Sanderson, Osbourne and Little, Cole & Son and Romo. “Our slogan is ‘everything for the decorator’ and we really do have everything both trade and domestic customers could require for any job.” And, it’s not just the company’s landmark site that’s complete with all manner of painting and decorating supplies:

“We offer a colour mixing service and can also create digital-printed murals to order, which are really popular with our customers for children’s bedrooms.” A highly trained and experienced team of staff are on hand to offer help and advice and there’s plenty of easy-to-access free parking. So, why not give your home a fabulous makeover today and pay a visit to the decorating experts?

The company’s landmark site in Cleveland Road has recently been returned to its former glory and once again houses the flagship store, as Managing Director, Tim Dixon explains: “We came back home to our original site last year after being based in Old Heath Road for 10 years.” Following an extensive renovation, the vast showroom is now packed with every painting and decorating supply you can think of. There are big paint brands, like Dulux, Crown, Leyland and Farrow & Ball, as well as the latest wallpaper styles from top designer names, 30

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

A huge SeLeCtIon

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Inside Carvers Builder’s Village Littles Lane, Wolverhampton WV1 1JY

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wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

A STATELY BATHROOM TRANSFORMATION but despite only being 10 years old; he felt the bathroom wasn’t entirely in keeping with the rest of the apartment – both in quality, and the look.

We were given an open brief and asked to ‘surprise him’. We began by finding out more about our client and his tastes. We invited him to our showroom – asked him to point out any specific things he liked and wanted us to incorporate – and we built the vision from there. Initially, the bathroom had been laid out in a way that didn’t make sense. The room wasn’t large enough to accommodate the separate bath and shower. We presented a new design that was much more aesthetically pleasing, and by losing the bath and just having a luxurious walkin shower deck, the whole room appeared to have almost doubled in size, helped by the calming and sophisticated colour scheme. Mr Amado is so pleased with the outcome that he’s planning to call us back to remodel his second bathroom in due course. We couldn’t be more delighted either!

This modern bathroom proves that good design can always make a difference, in this case transforming an awkward room into a spacious and relaxing haven.

We always endeavour to respond in a timely way, with a realistic quote based upon a customer’s requirements, and happily, that secured us the business on this occasion. Mr Amado lives in an apartment in an old stately home in Wolverhampton. It has been converted into several dwellings

Mr Amado had approached a couple of other companies before contacting Roman Bathrooms but was disappointed either by their quote, or their lack of professionalism and response. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Roman Bathrooms 110 - 111 High Street, Blackheath, Rowley Regis, West Midlands B65 0EG Tel: 0121 561 4374 Email: info@romanbathrooms.co.uk

www.romanbathrooms.co.uk 33

RECIPE

Serves 6 By Mike Whitehurst

TURMERIC AND GARLIC

CHICKEN THIGH WITH PEARL BARLEY RISOT TO Try this for a fairly healthy-ish late summer dish to eat in the garden with family and friends on one of what I hope will be a lovely evening in September or October this year. INGREDIENTS For the chicken • 12 skinless and boneless chicken thighs • 6 tsp of turmeric • 1 handful of fresh coriander sprigs • 6 cloves of garlic sliced or grated (that’s the segments not the whole bulb) • 1 red chilli • 2 red onions • 150g pearl barley • 1 bag of washed spinach • Rapeseed oil • A handful of toasted sliced almonds For the green salad • 1 packet of gem lettuce • 1 packet of tender-stem broccoli • 1 packet of mange tout • 1 packet of watercress • 1 bunch of spring onions • 1 cucumber • 1 lemon • 1 bottle of rapeseed or olive oil For the baked new potatoes • 1 kilo of washed mids potatoes • A few pinches of maldon sea salt • A good drizzle of oil • 1 tub of crème fraiche Or have it with a nice sour dough baguette METHOD Trim any excess fat from the thighs and mix with the turmeric, sliced red onions, chilli and garlic then splash some oil over and mix in to help the spices stick. If you can, allow this to sit in the fridge overnight. Once marinated simply place in a baking dish and cook

for about half an hour on 190°C then a further 2 hours on 150°C. After about an hour add in a litre of water and continue cooking, check occasionally and add more water if drying up. Once the time is up pour the liquid into a pan then add the pearl barley and boil until softened, for about 20 minutes. Add more water if the barley starts to dry out a bit, you need it to be wet like a risotto. Finish with a knob of butter to enrich the sauce. To serve, add in the fresh spinach and mix it in so it wilts with the heat of the chicken. Toast some sliced almonds under the grill and then sprinkle over the chicken and finish with a few coriander sprigs. You can keep the chicken warm if you have a second oven or grill on 70°C while you bake your potatoes - this usually takes about

40 minutes on 180°C but they can be baked before the chicken and then warmed up for 10 minutes on 200°C once the chicken is ready. Now wash your salad items and chop them any way you like, blanch the broccoli and mange-tout for 30 seconds and then chill in ice-cold water. Toss the salad together and dress with some freshly squeezed lemon juice and a drizzle of oil. Serve the pearl barley and chicken on a plate and everything else in bowls for everyone to help themselves. If you have some fresh chives knocking around simply slice them up finely and mix them into the crème fraiche. SERVING SUGGESTION You could add some homemade hummus to this with braised olives. Email mike@takefood.co.uk for my hummus and braised olives recipe.

For any other recipe/cooking advice please email mike@takefood.co.uk Follow me on facebook.com/takefood on twitter.com/takefood or on instagram.com/takefood 34

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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B y gone Bilston Bilston Market

By Rob Taylor Most people doing their weekly shop at Morrisons supermarket, just off the Black Country Route in Bilston, don’t realise that history stands right beneath their feet. So, shoppers – and anyone else fond of Bilston – forget ya Buy One Get One Free Maltesers and yer fire-sale discount pork chops and hear this: long before the Northern supermarket giant came to town, there stood on this site the Albert & Bath Steelworks of Sankey and Sons, which produced steel helmets – most notably the mark 1 Brodie – during World War I, helping to save thousands of lives. Prior to WW1 most soldiers did not have head protection; they wore only cloth caps in the early part of the war. So, spurred on by both personal tragedy – one of the company directors, Sydney Sankey, was shot in the head in Loos in 1915 – and grim statistics – 75 per cent of casualties were caused by head injuries, especially from shrapnel – the company went on to produce millions of helmets. The business closed its doors for the last time in 1989, following in the footsteps of so much other heavy industry that had not too long ago defined this town’s identity. It wasn’t always this way, however. Agriculture was for centuries Bilston’s main industry. Originally, in medieval times, it was little more than subsistence farming but 36

Bilston Craft Gallery

soon developed into a commercial enterprise, involving a local market, located at Market Cross. Bilston’s medieval market would have undoubtedly sold wool, as this was a mainstay of the English medieval economy. The streets and alleys called “Folds” possibly reflect this. The market was also an outlet for local artisans – makers of footwear, clothing, corn and seed merchants, carpenters and joiners. Bilston Market is still popular today, although now you’re more likely see to fruit and veg with some mobile phone accessories thrown in too – as well as a local Del Boy or two. The town is known also for its rich legacy in coal mining. The earliest reference to the mining of coal is in 1315, although back then it served very little purpose, as it wasn’t until the near exhaustion of wood and charcoal that coal became in demand for domestic and industrial purposes, with the Industrial Revolution fuelling the need fastest.

had by then been burning for some 50 years, 30 feet underground at Bradley Moor, Bilston. Nevertheless the good people of Bilston did all they could to meet demand for coal, firstly with crudely inefficient bell pits, carried out by one man/family operations. Eventually production was improved and refined by big business until the seams ran dry. The move away from industry was helped in 1990 when construction of the Black Country Route began. This new 4.5 mile section of dual carriageway linked the Birmingham New Road at Deepfields with the M6 at Junction 10 in Bentley. The Springvale Business Park was born from the ashes of Bilston’s Steelworks. Its first phase involved the construction of a B&Q superstore, known as the Depot. The site is now Poundland’s local base of operations. Today Bilston is home to lots of big business, including household names such as Tile Choice, Argos and Matalan, and has, like the wider West Midlands conurbation around it, regenerated from industrial ashes into being a thoroughly modern town.

Although not everything always went to plan, as with the curious case of the “Bradley Moor Volcano”, which referred to underground fires, usually in long-abandoned mines. Already a common feature of Black Joseph Sankey & Sons Ltd employees Country life, in 1834 White’s History of Staffordshire described it as ‘a very extraordinary phenomenon called a pseudo volcano, or wildfire,’ which

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

As seen on...

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DIY SOS

Young Politician is crowned Wolverhampton

Young Citizen of the Year Emma Curran, (17) Youth Police and Crime Commissioner and Wolverhampton Youth Council past Chairman has won the 2016 Young Citizen of the Year Award.

Organised by the five Rotary Clubs of Wolverhampton in partnership with the City Council, Waitrose, Wolverhampton Wanderers, The Express and Star and The Way, Youth Zone, the award recognises young people under the age of 19 who have gone the extra mile to help others or serve the community in the City of Wolverhampton. In addition to a trophy, Emma received a Certificate and cheque for £500. Emma was nominated by two fellow members of the City’s Youth Council of which she was Chairman last year and is now Membership and Democracy Officer. She represents Wolverhampton on the National Youth Parliament where she has spoken in a debate on racism and religious discrimination. She has no interest in following politics as a career but a burning desire to improve the lives of others. She has many achievements as a student at Wolverhampton Girls High School but still finds time to mentor younger girls, join the development group for the Way Youth Zone, complete D of E Award Bronze level and volunteer at Wolverhampton Tennis Club to teach 3-8 year olds, umpire matches and compete for the Women’s D team. She completed 60 hours of voluntary work to achieve a Tennis Futures award. She is a committed Girl Guide working towards her Queens Guide award and has represented Wolverhampton Guiding on three overseas visits including one to the Gambia where she painted the walls of a school, made crafts with children and donated to a local hospital. 38

Eight finalists were invited with their proposers and parents to an awards ceremony in the Mayoral Suite at Wolverhampton City Council on Thursday 7th July. The judging panel consisted of Sir Geoff Hampton (Chairman) Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Barry Findlay and the Mayoress Councillor Margaret Findlay, Neena Puri, (H.R. Manager of Waitrose, Wolverhampton), Peter Madeley, (The Express and Star) and retired Deputy Head teacher, Roger Timbrell representing the five Rotary Clubs of Bilston and West Wolverhampton, Tettenhall, Wednesfield, Wolverhampton and Wolverhampton St. Georges. The award is dedicated to Tom Warren who was not only Wolverhampton’s Director of Education from 1920 to 1945 but also was one of only two British Rotarians to rise to the position of President of Rotary International throughout the world in 1945. His Granddaughter, Alison Sykes, travelled from her home in Yorkshire to present the Award. The 2016 Award was sponsored and supported by the City’s Rotary Clubs, Waitrose, Wolverhampton City Council, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and the Express and Star. Nominations were invited from family members, friends,

neighbours, youth leaders, schools and employers. Two runners up received a trophy, certificate and cheque for £100.00. They are Maresha Grewal (18), a student at St. Edmunds R.C. Academy for her selfless dedication to sport and Alfie Baugh, who is only nine and was runner up last year. He produces a monthly magazine for his neighbourhood, organised neighbourhood events and has raised thousands of pounds for charity. Other nominated finalists recognised were Orla Hartshorne (17) and Sophie Thorpe (18) both pupils at Wolverhampton Girls High School, Dorothea Moriarty (15) from St. Edmunds R.C. Academy, Chelsea Rist (17) from Bilston and Louis Johnson (9) who like Alfie Baugh attends Christchurch C of E Junior School. Tettenhall Rotarian, Roger Timbrell, Chairman of the organising committee said ‘All of these young people are truly inspirational and superb role models for others in the City. In different ways they have all demonstrated the spirit of the Rotary International motto of ‘Service above Self’ by going the extra mile to help others. Contact Roger Timbrell Tel: 07885 944030 or roger.timbrell@yahoo.co.uk

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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Ly n d a l e

bring spectacular to your stairs Want to create the main feature to your home, or even revitalise your existing staircase? Lyndale Stairs Ltd offers stunning staircases and stair components in an extensive range of woods and newer contemporary features, such as our glass balustrading collection, at extremely competitive

prices. Lyndale Stairs Ltd gives you the opportunity to give your home the transition and transformation it needs. Our staircase designs range from grand traditional staircase design, to modern contemporary, to costeffective alternatives and our aim here at Lyndale Stairs Ltd is to enhance your home exponentially to your specification and this is an aim we have been achieving since we were established over twenty years ago. Our customer focus has not diminished during this time and this is largely due to our team of dedicated designers and joiners working with you from survey to delivery or installation, which provides you with total product satisfaction. As well as staircases, why not fully utilise the space your home has to offer with our range of loft ladders? These are available in timber or aluminium with either a sliding or folding action. These can be seamlessly added to your

home and with the addition of loftboarding you can really maximise the full potential of your loft space. For a more in-depth look at our staircase and ladders, visit one of our websites: www. lyndalestairs.co.uk and www. lyndaleloftladders.co.uk. Alternatively, come along to our showroom where one of our technical sales team will be able to guide you through everything that you need to know. Our showroom is open 9.00am - 4.30pm weekdays and 9.00am - 12pm on Saturdays.

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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Kitchen and Bedroom Technique Excellence All Round

Wolverhampton-based family-run business, Kitchen and Bedroom Technique, has been transforming the homes of its clients since 1982. With an excellent reputation and an extremely loyal customer-base, the company has become known as the premier choice for homeowners looking to create their dream fitted kitchen, bathroom or bedroom. Located in Chapel Ash, the business boasts an extensive, fully-equipped showroom that displays just some of the fabulous designs, products and accessories that are on offer from leading manufacturers. Able to take care of every aspect of design, installation and fitting, Kitchen and Bedroom Technique effectively meet the needs of each customer, undertaking all manner of projects both large and small. Owner, Stuart explains: “We’ve designed and fitted rooms in homes of all sizes. We have our very own team of skilled fitters that take care of everything from stripping out to re-plastering, as well as installing lighting and under floor heating.” “We provide a full warranty on fitting and will always sort any problems out immediately,” he adds. For customers who don’t require installation, the company are happy to supply products only, although planning is always essential:

“Design is incredibly important, we won’t sell anything that isn’t going to work effectively in our client’s home or suit their requirements. We want our customers to enjoy their new room and be completely satisfied.” And it’s this honest approach that has seen the company set itself apart from the competition. Owner, Steve, says: “We’ve got many years of experience, so we’re able to share our knowledge with clients to help them make the right design choices, whether their planning a new kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, study or office and everything we supply is covered by a manufacturer’s warranty.” So, it’s no surprise that 90% of the company’s business is either repeat or recommended: “We have many clients that have used us several times over the past three decades to update their homes. We enjoy dealing with our customers, both old and new, and feel that we develop a really good relationship with them. “Our clients know that we’re always there for them and will tailor our service to meet their needs.” And when it comes to pricing the company is completely transparent: “We start with a design, and then adapt it to suit the budget. Our clients know exactly what it will cost from day one, so there are no added costs or nasty surprises along the way.” Whatever you’ve got planned for your home, a visit to Kitchen and Bedroom Technique and a chat with the team is essential. “We recommend that our customers come in to the showroom to take a look at our designs and discuss their ideas, after that Stuart will arrange a home visit.” With Kitchen and Bedroom Technique you can rest assured that you’re dealing with a skilled, experienced and dedicated team, at every stage of the design, planning and installation process. “Providing excellent customer service is incredibly important to us and we work to only the highest standards in everything that we do,” adds Stuart. So why not contact the team today and start planning your dream room?

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

For further details please call 01902 714557 or email steve@kitbedtech.wanadoo.co.uk

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

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

Our Kid Sam

Big Sam, bottom row, far right, in Brierley Hill and Dudley’s English School’s Shield side from 1968

By Rob Taylor Sam Allardyce has his work cut out as England’s 18th and newest football manager. Tasked with the unenviable job of taking charge of the woefully underperforming England squad, postEuro 2016, the man affectionately known around the terraces as “Big Sam” is known for his no-nonsense style on and off the pitch – and this isn’t surprising because Sam was born in Dudley and is as proud of his West Midlands roots as he is of his favourite football boots. So it’s now time to take a lookback at the local lad done good. A lifelong Wolves fan and former West Bromwich Albion coach, Allardyce was born in 1954 to parents Bob, a police sergeant, and mother Mary and grew up on Old Park Farm estate, Dudley. Sam has an older brother, Robert – a West Bromwich Albion fan – and a sister, Mary. Sam was educated at Sycamore Green Primary School and later 44

at Wren’s Nest School. He was a feature in the local parish during his formative years, known for his size – he was 5 ft 10” aged 11 – and always with a football under his arm, Sam honed his skills during kickabouts on every and any available patch of green in the area. Firstly he played for Dudley and Brierley Hill Schools, Staffordshire Boys and Birmingham and District Boys and then for semi-professional club Dudley Town, as a centre-half, before he was spotted by a Bolton Wanderers’ scout aged 15 and snapped up as an apprentice.

which was disappointing because I had to leave home.”

He may now occupy the hot seat in football’s biggest job – something he has coveted publicly since being overlooked in 2006 when the Football Association instead opted for Steve McClaren – but back in the late sixties Sam’s aspirations were much more parochial, as he revealed in a recent Express and Star interview:

After this Sam worked his way though the lower leagues before becoming a Premier League stalwart, working successfully as manager for Bolton Wanderers, Newcastle United, Blackburn Rovers, West Ham and Sunderland. He has never been relegated from the Premier League and is regarded as something of a specialist in saving clubs from the drop.

“I’m a Black Country lad. Whenever people ask me whether I’m from Birmingham I always correct them and tell them I’m from Dudley but I left there when I was 15 because none of the Midlands’ clubs made me an offer to be a professional,

Latterly Sam’s playing career took him to Bolton, Huddersfield, Sunderland, Coventry City, Millwall and Preston. Once the inevitable move from player to manager took place it was back to the West Midlands once again – and this time he had to set aside his affinity for Wolves because it was ironically Albion who gave him his first coaching job, pairing him with Brian Talbot at the Hawthorns in 1989.

He is therefore the perfect candidate for taking the reigns of the national side. Following the team’s performance at Euro 2016, England can surely drop no further.

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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Pupils at a Tettenhall Primary school proved that they could put on quite a show with their end of year production. Year Six pupils (10 and 11 year olds) at Woodthorne Primary School put on an ambitious rendition of Disney classic ‘Aladdin’ to celebrate their final weeks at the school. In addition to acting and singing the pupils contributed to every aspect of the production from making the costumes, managing the sound and lighting, to producing the set.

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Brewood 10km

Bigger and Better than Ever! At the time of writing, the Brewood 10km Race is only a few days away and the runners participating in this year’s event are preparing to get into competition mode. Formerly the Brewood Woggle, the Brewood 10km Race is now in its third year and has been transformed from a fun run attracting around 50 runners from the local community to a fully marshalled, timed and measured race with over 200 participants. This doesn’t mean that the race has lost its family feel and atmosphere, there are still homemade cakes at the end for the hungry runners and great support from locals on the route. The route takes you through the beautiful countryside around Chillington Hall before weaving towards the village centre via the killer Dean Street hill. The race attracts serious runners and newcomers alike as the route is mainly flat and fast and the finish attracts a carnival type atmosphere with runners finishing to applause by onlookers in the village square.

However there is a serious side to the run as it forms part of the Brewood Scout’s fundraising campaign to build a new Scout Hut. The old hut has been earmarked for demolition and is lacking in modern facilities. The Brewood 10km together with its sister event – The Brewood Cycle Challenge – have now become established events on the fundraising calendar. Event organiser – Beccy Jones-Reading, herself a London Marathon Runner commented: “The success of the Brewood 10km has been a major contributor to our fundraising calendar and we are very pleased

with the growth in runner numbers each year. We are very thankful that we have some fantastic volunteers who tirelessly work to make the event run as smoothly as possible”. The run was scheduled to take place on Sunday 26th September, starting at St Dominic’s High School for Girls in Brewood.

The Inner Wheel Club of Tettenhall The Inner Wheel club of Tettenhall held their AGM at Linden House, Tettenhall Road in June. During the proceedings the club had the pleasure of handing over cheques to the MS Therapy Centre at Newbridge and to the Stroke Support unit based in Albert Road Tettenhall. Both cheques were for the sum of £1,500 which has been raised during the year by the club at various fund raising activities. Chairman Alison Kraushar presented the cheques to each charity before handing over the chain of office to the new President Mrs Doris Margetts who will lead the Club in the forthcoming year. 48

Susan Husband, manager of the MS Therapy Centre, Annette Silwood, Jonnah Jones (Chairman) and wife Gertie Jones (in wheelchair), Phil Silverwood

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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Grand Theatre COMPETITION One lucky winner can win two tickets to see A TALE OF TWO CITIES on Wednesday 19th October at 7.30pm at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity,” Dickens considered his novel, A Tale Of Two Cities, the best story he had ever written. Interweaving one family’s intensely personal drama with the terror and chaos of the French Revolution, it is an epic story of love, sacrifice and redemption amidst horrific violence and worldchanging events.

Grand Theatre from Wednesday 19th to Saturday 22nd October. Director James Dacre said, “Dickens wrote A Tale of Two Cities in 1859 as a meditation on politics and power, the individual versus the system and the private versus the public. Mike Poulton (adapter), Rachel Portman (composer) and I first mounted this adaptation in the aftermath of the Arab Spring to cast a light on the protests, fanaticism and political unrest that were spreading across the world at that time. “Our decision along with Jenny King, producer of The Touring Consortium, to revisit the production during this year of elections,

referenda and revolutions across the world is motivated by a shared belief that great historical dramas can play an important role in contemporary political conversations by emotionally engaging audiences in human stories, countering the disaffection that seems to dominate so much of today’s political debate. “Theatre and music can be imbued with a passion that a novel can’t capture. Royal and Derngate and Touring Consortium’s A Tale of Two Cities aims to focus on the humanity of Dickens’s novel in a way that gives the historical events an immediacy and urgent relevance for today’s audiences”.

To book your seats today please go online at www.grandtheatre.co.uk or contact the Box Office on 01902 42 92 12.

In an era of regime changes and citizen protest around the world, this bold new dramatic adaptation by Mike Poulton (Fortune’s Fool, Old Vic; Wolf Hall) set to rousing original music by Oscarwinning composer Rachel Portman (The Cider House Rules, Beloved) seems more relevant than ever. The classic tale comes to life on stage at Wolverhampton

Previous cast photography.

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and send it on a postcard with your name, address and telephone number to Wolverhampton West Magazine or email info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk by Friday 7th October 2016.

Who wrote the original novel, A Tale Of Two Cities? A) William Shakespeare B) Charles Dickens C) Christopher Marlowe D) Geoffrey Chaucer 50

Competition Terms and Conditions Please send postal entries to Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY or email info@wolverhamptonwestmag. co.uk. To be received no later than Friday 7th October 2016. 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 | october 2016

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Winter

colour The nights are beginning to draw in as we approach autumn and thoughts for the flower garden start turning towards colour for the winter and next spring.

If you want Hyacinths in flower for Christmas, make sure the bulbs are planted in bowls by midSeptember. Use a bulb compost as it contains charcoal to keep the compost ‘sweet’. Once planted moisten the compost and place in a cool, dark place, bringing gradually into the light and warmth once the shoots are 3cm high. Bulbs for spring colour in the garden can be planted right through to November – especially tulips which can be planted very late. For a succession of colour in the spring plant Snowdrops and Aconites for very early flowering then Crocus

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

and Dwarf Narcissus like Tete a tete and for later flowering go for Tulips and finally Alliums and Fritillarias. If making up winter baskets don’t forget to add crocus and dwarf daffodils for some extra colour in the spring. Pansies, Violas, dwarf conifers, leucothoe and dwarf shrubs can all be used for winter and spring colour. We’ll have ready planted baskets available from October onwards or bring in your empty basket and we’ll replant it for you. Autumn is the traditional time for planting shrubs in the garden and you’ll find a wide selection on our outdoor beds. Skimmias with their red berries and the male forms with their tight bronze coloured buds will give colour throughout the colder months. Bare root hedging plants will shortly be available and need planting as soon as possible.

Skimmia

In the veg patch, harvest onions and potatoes now – lift up onions and allow 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. Hessian sacks that are available from garden centres are ideal for this purpose.

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wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

HOW TO PERFECT THAT

GREEN, GREEN GRASS AT HOME March and November. This involves perforating the soil with small holes to allow air, water and nutrients to penetrate the grass roots, thus alleviating soil compaction.

Steve Tonks, General Manager at Boningale Garden Creations provides his top tips

Do you ever look enviously at those gardens with beautiful lawns? While most of us don’t have the time to achieve the perfection of a premium golf course, there is plenty you can do to ensure your lawn looks lush and healthy. Mowing is crucial but it is important to get the mower height set correctly – make sure it’s higher in dry weather and for the first few cuts of the year, just in case there is a late frost. The type of mower you use will also have an impact. Rotary mowers do the job but if you want a more professional finish, consider buying

We also recommend top-dressing the lawn with a layer of sand/ soil/peat mix after scarifying and aerating. What mix you use depends on the soil conditions. a cylinder mower, which usually comes with rollers for striping. Scarifying – removing the unwanted thatch – should be carried out twice a year, in April and September, preferably on damp grass. It’s a good idea to apply a moss killer seven-10 days before using a scarifying machine or rake to go over your entire lawn. Aerating is also important and should be done once a year between

You may also want to water your lawn during prolonged periods of hot, dry weather (just check there’s no hosepipe ban!). Morning is the best time to do it when the air is cooler and the wind is calmer - and avoid 11am-3pm, when the sun is at its hottest. The summer heat can take its toll on lawns, but if you follow these simple tips you can make your grass the envy of your neighborhood!

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

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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. Owner, Michael Snelson, developed a plan for the business which would complement the seasonal workload of an arable farm, when he returned to his home farm after completing a degree at Harper Adams University. The company has proved to be a great success, with orders for logs being placed all year round. Over the last three years Black Country Firewood have developed a loyal client base, thanks to their commitment to providing excellent customer service.

Michael says: “Many people who have just had a log burner fitted may find ordering their first load of logs a little daunting. They will have questions like: “will they be dry?” or “will they fit on our fire?” That’s why the small, but dedicated, team are always on-hand to offer help: “We always encourage our customers to come and visit us at our purpose-built firewood centre so that we can talk them through the different types of logs we supply and explain which type of log best suits their needs.”

And the company can even deliver to your home: “We deliver to a wide variety of areas, within a 14 mile radius, including: Kinver, Wollaston, Stourbridge, Lye, Kingswinford, Wombourne, Enville, Bridgnorth, Pattingham and Wolverhampton. We’re always happy to travel outside of the area if required.” Visit Black Country Firewood today and enjoy the warmth of your open fire this winter.

Both Michael and his colleague, Richard, enjoy meeting new customers when they come to visit the site to view the products on offer. “We really enjoy dealing with our customers, we want them to look forward to ordering firewood and not see it as a chore. In fact, we are so confident in our products that we offer a full money back customer satisfaction guarantee.”

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blackcountryfirewood 61

Wolverhampton Police ‘Child abuse. If you suspect it, report it’ is the message from West Midlands Police.

Launched at the beginning of July the aim of the campaign is to speak to people who may have worries about a child but may not want to report them for fear of interfering or becoming involved in someone else’s business. Heading the campaign is a video following the life of a couple who suspect something is not right next door. Although easy to ignore as the problem is next door, the niggling feeling that something bad is happening follows them round and plays on their mind. Ultimately they decide to do nothing, with disastrous consequences for the little boy who is their neighbour. Supported by social media images, a radio advert which was heard on Heart FM in August, and A frame trailers that will be situated in parks across the West Midlands, it encourages people who have suspicions or doubts that a child they know could be in danger, to call 101.

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Wolverhampton

Art Gallery Exhibition 2016 Metamorphosis in addition to the broad range of artwork the society usually exhibits. For an established body to change its spots is a risky venture and to maintain the standard of entries the selection process will be as rigorous as ever. But the challenge is an exciting one, and artists will be looking for ways to expand their personal horizons through new ways of making art or respond to a theme using more traditional styles - or perhaps both! Flow (detail) by Neil Davies

So good they get to do it twice. Metamorphosis in Wolverhampton - all change here.

repeat exhibition does not mean a repeat of the same and for the first time the exhibition will feature digital imaging and work from artists who can take their images beyond the recognized boundaries of photography.

Following the success of their exhibition earlier this year at Wolverhampton Art Gallery, the Wolverhampton Society of Artists has been invited to hold another one in October. But a

Another first for the society is the inclusion of a theme, and to reflect the societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s willingness to embrace change, part of the exhibition will feature work on the theme of

Stone trees by Neil Davies

Rite of Spring by Chris Manley

It promises to be an interesting venture and the public can certainly expect to see a thoroughly eclectic mix of new works. The exhibition will run from the 8th of October to the 13th of November 2016. Throughout the exhibition, every Saturday between 10am and 2 pm, various artists will demonstrate a diverse range of styles and subject matter which has become the signature of this established Society. Apocalypse by Chris Manley

Wolverhampton Society of Artists 64

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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Best Foot Forward produces another £18,500 for charities It is frequently said that the world is divided into the “haves” and “have nots”. The purpose of Rotary is to provide a framework which enables men and women to whom life has, in general, been pretty kind, to invest their time, their skills and their energies to improve the circumstances of those to whom life has not been so kind. The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton has 60 members who are committed to providing support where it is needed in the community. Recognising that there are circumstances where members do not possess the specialised knowledge and skills to provide practical support, time and energy is frequently given over to raising funds do be used by those who do. Every year the club has raises and distributes well over £50,000, which goes to international, national and local projects - with the bulk being donated locally.

fundraiser. Already this event has raised over £70,000. The difference between Best Foot Forward and the conventional charity running or walking event is the total flexibility of the event. A whole family can enter Best Foot Forward for the typical single entry fee in most 10 kilometre runs. There is no fixed starting time and there is no fixed distance but every lap of the stadium puts £1 into the funds available to the event charities. That money is not derived from runner sponsorship, but by donations from event patrons, 40 or so companies which support this community initiative and provide the funding. This year’s event charities were Acorns in the Black Country, Wolverhampton Samaritans and The Rotary Charitable Trust, who will share £11,000. However, that is not the whole story.

Adds event organiser Geoff Lowndes: “Although no-one is expected to get sponsorship, those taking part are very welcome to do so. “Many charities, youth groups and sports clubs have need of on-going funds and scratch their heads on how to do this. Many organise their own sponsored walks. This means finding a venue, planning a course, finding marshals and others to look after it, designing and printing sponsor forms and all the rest of the admin. “With Best Foot Forward it’s already in place - choose your starting time, tell your people, print off your personalised sponsor forms from the event website and you’re ready –everything raised goes to the group. “With details still coming in, we already know of over £7,500 raised by groups to fund their own activities.”

Club President Stuart Williams explains: “To be able to donate at this sort of level, we need to find and organise events that people will want to take part in, knowing that at the same time they are giving support to those in need. “For the last 16 years our major fundraiser has been the Dragon Boat Challenge, held on the lake at Himley Park every May. This event has produced in excess of £350,000. “Introduced four years later came the Tree of Remembrance, held each year in the Mander Centre. This has produced over £100,000. Best Foot Forward, staged in July at Aldersley Stadium, is our latest major 66

Stuart Bailey on his way to adding 108 green pounds to the Charity Pot

For general information visit www.wolverhamptonbestfootforward.com For specific enquiries, either email Geoff Lowndes, via bff.online@hotmail.co.uk or phone Mike Boyce on 07976 612276 wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Synaxis: Design

It has been all change at Wolverhampton Wanderers with new owners, a new Head Coach and a host of new players. But one thing which is the same at Molineux, is the commitment to the highest standard of service from Synaxis Design Consultancy, based within the famous stadium. Managing and creative director Simon Pagett founded Synaxis back in February, 2009, and the graphic design specialists continue to offer a range of creative services to clients from a wide variety of industries. “As a small, independent company, we are very proud to be based at the city’s historic football club, and to design Wolves’ match day programme and other club literature, including large scale graphics, brochures, leaflets and posters - anything required to support their marketing campaigns,” says Simon. “But our work with Wolves is just a part of our overall client portfolio. “Working with large, recognised brands is great, but to play a part in a small company’s development – by way of branding or marketing support – and seeing them grow, is extremely satisfying as well. “We offer design for print and digital media. From logos and business stationery to books and catalogues, we are able to offer a range of services for clients large and small. “We pride ourselves in developing long-standing relationships with all of our clients and are always open to getting involved with fresh ideas and projects.” Synaxis’ ever-increasing client-base is as varied as it extensive, including local schools and sporting groups, a top car dealership, retail stores, financial services, charities and more. Quite an assortment of companies large and small! Most recently Synaxis has worked closely with a small group of dedicated Wolves fans to design an extensive hardback book – They Wore The Shirt – charting the colourful history of Wolves replica kit through the ages, and the stories behind them. Could Synaxis Design Consultancy be the answer to your creative and design needs? You can put your shirt on it! For more information visit www.synaxis.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

MAGIC OF MOTOWN

Sunday 23 October 2016 ~ 7.30pm

ABOUT THE SHOW Join the party as this scintillating show celebrates its 10th birthday. The unstoppable Magic of Motown thrills its millionth music fan this year, embarking on a super-sensational nationwide tour that also honours the 50th anniversary of chart-topping single Reach Out I’ll Be There. Revel in hit after hit as the incredible, all-new for 2016, theatrical treat with a huge cast marks 50 years of Reach Out and a decade of continuing the legend of solid-gold artistes the Supremes, Temptations,

Jackson 5, Isley Brothers, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Lionel Richie and more. The captivating concert show oozes the style, sophistication and musical brilliance of these megastars as more than 36 classics are revived amid a flurry of glittering costume changes, starring all the dazzling dance moves and superb musicianship of the original artistes. In 1966 The Four Tops’ signature tune was a No1 hit both sides of the Atlantic – Reach Out also enjoys the distinction of being acclaimed as this stunning production’s stand-out performance.

Wolves Civic North Street, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV1 1RQ Box Office: 08703 207000 www.wolvescivic.co.uk www.easytheatres.com facebook.com/MagicOfMotown twitter.com/magicofmotown

This month we have teamed up with EasyTheatres to give readers the chance to win a pair of tickets to go and see Magic of Motown and meet the cast before they perform live on stage. Ever wondered what life is like behind the scenes of an EasyTheatres production? To be in with a chance of winning this unique prize simply answer the following question correctly and send it on a postcard with your name, address and telephone number to Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY or email info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk, all entries to be received by Friday 14th October.

In which American city was the Motown label based?

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. 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.

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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Blooming lovely at Smestow School “They are really kind to me at the school,” she said. “I love talking to the children, they call me Aunty Joan. Joan Culverwell with students at Smestow School

Not many people can say they still enjoy going in to work 20 years after they retired. But that is exactly what 87-year-old Joan Culverwell from Wolverhampton does on a weekly basis. The former Science Technician at Smestow School, in Windmill Crescent, returns every Thursday to water the plants and is aided by current students.

“I talk to them about biology as I love that subject, I ask them what year they are in and what they aim to do when they finish sixth form. “It is so nice, it is a lovely school and children, I’m very fortunate that they look after me.” Joan worked at the school as a science technician from September 1975 until April 1992 and her two boys, now aged 59 and 57, also went to the school as pupils. She looks after three ‘enormous’ plants in the board room as well

Codsall girl to represent England in

karate championship

A 10-year-old Wolverhampton girl has been selected to represent England in the FEW karate championships.

“I was so excited when we received the letter to say I had been selected for the England squad - I train five times a week which I really enjoy but sometimes is really tiring. I now know my hard work is definitely all worth it as I’m so proud to get in the England team,” said Cassie.

Cassie Taylor, from Codsall, will be competing in the Federation European Wado Kai Karate Championships in Belgium on 4th, 5th and 6th November.

Her karate career started in 2014 at the after school karate club at St Christopher’s School, run by Sensei Stennett Harvey. He spotted her talent and encouraged her to join Ikon Martial Arts, in Bushbury, where she began to train more intensively. She now trains a total of five times a week.

Cassie, who attends St Christopher’s School in Codsall, only took up the sport two years ago but has gone from strength to strength and has just received her purple belt. The youngster, who enjoys many other sports including gymnastics, has already won a huge number of medals but says that getting picked for the England team is her proudest achievement so far. 70

as those in the office, the head teacher’s office - if he is not too busy - and the art room. Due to her age and mobility sixth form students at Smestow escort her around the building and carry her jug of water for her. “I hated retirement,” she added. “I went to the doctor and he said I just needed to get back to work. “I just love work, I love gardening too, and it is one of my hobbies so I am very pleased they let me keep coming back to Smestow. “The staff are wonderful, the school itself is good too and it is very nice since the refurbishment as well. “I will keep going for as long as I can.” Joan lives opposite the school and walks there for her weekly plant watering job unless it is bad weather, then her partner of more than 50 years, Tommy McGonigal, takes her in the car. January 2016, once a month in Leicester. She will be competing in Kata for ages 10-11 years and Kumite aged 10-11 years. Her mum, Helen Taylor, said today she was extremely proud of her daughter for being selected for the England squad. “Cassie has worked really, really hard - often having to give up other pastimes to continue her commitment to the sport. So I’m absolutely thrilled and couldn’t be prouder.”

This year she has already competed at various locations around the UK including Leicester, Worcester, Gloucester, Weston Super Mare, Derby, Wolverhampton, Sheffield and Barnsley. Cassie has been training with the Wado Kai England squad since wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

96 Windmill Lane, Castlecroft, Wolverhampton WV3 8HG

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Gourmet Christmas With over 50 years experience of the meat industry, Allan Bennett and his staff strive to create the best quality money can buy. This quality has brought success at the highest level, winning national competitions for his Bacon, Black Pudding, Sausage, plus international success for pies & pastries.

Dupheshen

Our Dupheshen is based on the traditional three bird roast. A duck is boned then stuffed with chicken and pheasant breast, sausage meat, orange and apricots. Once roasted it can be served hot or cold for that special Christmas feast. Aproximate weight: 3-3.5kg, 7-8lb Servings: 10-12 people for a meal or more served on a buffet.

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Visit us for help and advice to help make your Christmas a success. Winner Pork Sausage, Overall Best Product, Stafford County Show 2010

Allan Bennett Ltd 15 Station Road, Codsall, Wolverhampton, WV8 1BX Tel: 01902 842204

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R J Hipkiss & Sons Butchers Formerly from Daisy Fresh and Essential, serving delicious, fresh quality meat

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EvEnts bookings now availablE It’s no secret that there is much loved interest in the street food vibe. R J HIPKISS & SONS would like to offer our personal twist on the scene, offering an outdoor catering experience for all occasions. With the best customer service, knowledge and source to amazing local produce… It will be our pleasure to cook up a storm!

Outdoor... Gourmet style! (for further details call in store) Open: Mon-Sat 7.30am-6pm and Sundays 8am-4pm Tel: 01902 745956

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Compton A Family Business Since 1969 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk The Swan

Centre, Bridgnorth Road, Wolverhampton, WV6 8AE 73

Compton Hospice Family ScareFeSt Forget the fairy tales that you know the ones where lips are red and skin is white as snow.

Forget the slippers made of glass and brave lovers kisses that cause curses soon to pass. Now upon us is the witching hour, where happy endings are snatched away by an evil power. On October 29th 3-9pm The Cedars, Compton Hospice in Wolverhampton, open their doors once again for their annual Family Scarefest fundraising event, which this year will change everything you think you know about your favorite bedtime stories with its Twisted Fairytales theme.

Bring your Werecubs (under 10â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) to trick or treat in the safety of the Wonderland Forest on the Cedars grounds between 3 and 6pm, then let them turn their paws to some of the games and creepy crafts on offer. Our resident storyteller will be on hand with some Grimm (pardon the pun) and gruesome tales to give you the chills and your little terrors can get up close and personal with some suitably scary critters in our mini petting zoo. For those who want to unleash some Thriller moves this All Hallows Eve, there will also be a spooky Halloween disco, complete with party games running throughout the evening. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to dust off your most terrifying costumes too, for what Halloween event would be complete without a fancy dress competition. From 7pm the Wonderland Forest undergoes a terrifying transformation where pumpkins rot, magical roses wilt and evil lurks in every shadow. (Not suitable for under 10s) This is a free event, however some charges will apply.

For more information please contact Vicki Wootton on 0845 2255497 or email fundraising@compton-hospice.org.uk

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Rare behind the scenes look into

AIRCRAFT CONSERVATION

The RAF Museum’s Conservation Centre will be opening its doors to visitors for behind-the-scenes access to aircraft conservation work for one week only, from 14th to 19th November 2016, 10.15am to 1pm. Visitors will be able to view progress being made on the Handley Page Hampden and Vickers Wellington. They will also have the opportunity to speak with staff, apprentices and volunteers about their work, as part of the Open Week. Admission is £5.00 per adult for the Open Week event (children under 16 accompanied by an

adult: free) and tickets can be purchased on arrival from the Visitor Centre. Proceeds from this event will go towards supporting the Museum collection.

Website: www.rafmuseum.org Telephone: 01902 376200

Conservation Centre Open Week 14 – 19 November 2016 10.15am to 1.00pm Admission £5.00 for adults children under 16 free (must be accompanied by an adult)

Royal Air Force Museum Cosford Cosford, Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 8UP T: 01902 376 200 cosford@rafmuseum.org

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

View current projects including the Wellington and Hampden Bombers

www.rafmuseum.org 75

Walk the walk

and help make a dream come true Wolverhampton based children’s charity Promise Dreams are absolutely delighted to be announcing the return of their biggest single fundraising event - Walk for Dreams 2016! You may well have heard the team on Signal’s 107 talking about this year’s event and seen the banner going up around the city! Sunday 16th October will see walkers, family and friends return to the grounds of Himley Hall in Dudley in their thousands to set off on a 9 mile walk to Wolverhampton Racecourse. The start time is 11am and on arrival, after registration, walkers will be given a warm up to ensure they’re ready for the off and a full-on party atmosphere awaits

them at the Racecourse with music, bouncy castles, face painting, refreshments and, most importantly, somewhere to rest your weary feet. As in previous years entry to Walk for Dreams is totally free but walkers are encouraged to get sponsored or fundraise in whatever way they can as this will enable Promise Dreams to raise even more special smiles. There will also be “I walked the walk” t-shirts on sale at both the start and finish venues for participants of the event. The team at Promise Dreams are hugely grateful to their key partners in this project who, through their generosity, will ensure that every penny raised from the walk will go directly to the families that the charity works to support. This money will make a real difference to some very special children

and help to create memories that will be treasured for a lifetime. To sign up or find out more about Walk for Dreams simply visit www. walkfordreams.co.uk and complete the online registration page. You can sign up individually or as a team so why not recruit as many of your friends and colleagues as you can and then see who can raise the most sponsorship. The website shows the different amounts in relation to different dream requests so you could even set yourselves a group target and know that you’ll be fulfilling a dream through all your hard work. For a small charity like Promise Dreams volunteer support at a big event like this is crucial so if you would like to help out on the day then you can also register on the same website to volunteer at this event. Promise Dreams are committed to helping seriously and terminally ill children and their families see their precious dreams become reality. Whether that dream is the chance to meet a celebrity, go to the theatre or simply to have access to medical equipment that will enhance each and every day of their life. To find out more please visit www.promisedreams.co.uk

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

promisedreams.co.uk Registered Charity No. 1086020

S U N D AY 1 6 t h O C TO B E R 2 0 1 6

Join us for a fun-filled nine mile walk with friends and family from Himley Hall to Wolverhampton Race Course and you can help to make a difference to seriously & terminally ill children.

Call : 01902 212451 Email : walk@promisedreams.co.uk Visit : promisedreams.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Win a meal

for t wo

at the The Park House Hotel and arrive in style

The Park House Hotel is giving one lucky reader the chance to win a 2 course meal for two including a bottle of house wine.

some new and exciting Wedding Packages to suit all tastes and budgets, along with a major update and refurbishment well under way within all 54 bedrooms, the Park House makes an ideal wedding venue amongst other things!

The Park House Hotel in Shifnal is somewhat of a landmark in Shropshire. With history dating back over 200 years and many memories for lots of people in the village and surrounding areas, the hotel and their team are continuously working hard to take the hotel into the future.

After the summer months quieten down and autumn slowly turns into winter, the hotel becomes a hub of festive excitement, with Christmas parties starting in late November, right through until February! They offer private parties, large mixed group parties, Tribute nights, Live Band Nights, Comedy Nights and more!

Their Butlers Bar & Restaurant is the home of a fresh, new and exciting menu, with the best beer garden in Shifnal! The Hotel has

Arrive VIP style, the lucky winner of the competition will be collected from the doorstep by Image Luxury Travel and chauffeur driven to the restaurant and then taken home at the end of the evening. To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize, simply answer the following question correctly.

and Meeting Events, great Afternoon Tea deals for christenings, baby showers and brthdays. The Park House and their team are always on hand to help with any enquiry, and hold a Wedding Open day every Sunday and a 24 hour manned reception to be able to answer your calls. Why not pop in or call to arrange an appointment to discuss your next event. Their new website is now live, so have a look at: www.parkhousehotelshifnal.co.uk or call on 01952 460128.

With 5 different Function Suites, the Hotel offers competitive Conference

How many bedrooms are there at The Park House Hotel? Email your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: info@ wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk or on a postcard to Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY, all entries to be received by Friday 7th October 2016.

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 from Sunday to Thursday inclusive and booking date will be subject to availability. Prize valid until Thursday 3rd November 2016, all entries will be forwarded to The Park House Hotel unless requested otherwise.

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Autumn marks the start of harvest season

for Halfpenny Green Vineyards

As the days get shorter and the nights draw in there will be only one thing on the mind of the winemakers at Staffordshire’s premier vineyard – world class English wines! With a range of internationally awardwinning wines already, the vintners will be looking forward to crafting more winners from this year’s grapes! Fancy a taste? Pop down to the on-site Wine Shop & Deli and visit

the aptly named Wine Loft where the staff will be happy to offer you a free sample of their awardwinning wines, made entirely on the South Staffordshire site. For the serious wine tasters, there’s also a wine tasting menu, with options including cheese pairings and a self-guided trail of the vineyard itself! (Booking necessary) With a range of fine produce available, and festive products now arriving, why not start your Christmas shopping early? Custom hampers, gift wrapping and labelling services are available while you wait, taking the stress out of the holidays! To complete your visit, why not finish with lunch in the restaurant? Served between 12-3pm, all meals are freshly prepared by the head chef and his team, served straight to your table by the waiting staff. The Christmas menu for December is now available, with bookings now

being taken, perfect for a Christmas party, or just a festive treat! For ‘fine diners’ the restaurant has also launched a series of A La Carte evenings, the first was held in September. Canapes are served on arrival, guests will then enjoy a three course meal ordered from the specially created menu with wine pairings available for each dish! The next evening is on Friday 14th October with further dates on Friday 18th November and Friday 9th December (a unique Christmas themed evening), so book your table today for a truly special experience. From the wines, to the shop, to the food, and even the recently opened on-site zoo – WILD Zoological Park – there really is something for the whole family this autumn at Halfpenny Green Vineyards!

www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk Halfpenny Green Vineyards, Tom Lane, Bobbington, South Staffordshire DY7 5EP Gift vouchers available Including tours, tastings, cream teas, high teas and fishing. Perfect for Christmas!

Christmas stock now arriving! Bespoke hamper service and custom gift wrapping available. Corporate services available upon enquiry.

Dine with us! A La Carte evenings on 14th Oct, 18th Nov and special Christmas evening on 9th Dec. Call to book! Christmas Fayre menu available throughout December, bookings being taken.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9.00AM – 5.00PM Tel: 01384 221122 Email: sales@halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Eating Out and Entertainment

Promote your venue to over 50,000* readers with Wolverhampton West Magazine To find out how your venue can be featured please call Gisella on 01902 744217 80

*over a 2 month period

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Christmas at Molineux Party packages now available for November and December 2016 Please call our Christmas Party bookings team on: 0871 222 2220 (Option 5) or email: christmas@wolves.co.uk

Full Main Menu Available 7 days a week Now taking

Christmas Party Bookings throughout December Fixed price

Lunch Menu

2 courses ÂŁ10.95, 3 courses ÂŁ13.95

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

B O O K E A R LY

FOR CHRISTMAS

When Christmas is almost upon us is the time most people begin to think of ways to celebrate it with meals out with relatives, friends and work colleagues, Christmas dinner, parties, fun.

The trouble is, by the time Christmas is that close it is probably too late to get booked into any catering establishment and the larger the group of people involved, the more impossible it is. The fact is, booking for any Christmas-related outing should be done when Christmas itself is but a dim promise on the horizon of consciousness. So even though summer is still lingering and autumn not quite fully here, if you want to do anything at all to celebrate the festive season, now is the time to organise it. In short, book early to avoid disappointment. So what might you wish to do? Well a celebratory lunch with work colleagues might be nice. Most pubs, hotels and restaurants will have special menus for just such a party. They may also have sample menus for you to take away so each member of the group can

choose in advance - essential for large groups of diners. Be advised though, get each person accepting a place to give you a small deposit - a fiver say, just in case they decide at the last minute, not to come. An evening celebration is very popular these days and again, most caterers will have special menus and often entertainment too, laid on. The best venues get booked up fast however, so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t delay with your booking arrangements. Pre-Christmas Sunday lunches are a great way to get the family together. Again if you have a big party to book for, get that booking in early. If someone is on a special diet, be sure to inform the caterer

in advance so they are prepared. And if a baby chair or child seat is required make sure you book it. It may also be necessary to choose the wine in advance if you want it well cooled unless the establishment keeps their wines in cool cabinets. If you are planning a real party, you could consider hiring a hall or function room in a catering or exhibition establishment. You could get a local publican to organise and man the bar and outside caterers to provide the food - a buffet would be ideal. Contact a local theatrical agent or look in the local paper and you might find you can book a disco as well. Of course you may be thinking of dining out on Christmas Day. If this is the case you had better get down to making that booking right now. Christmas Day bookings are often booked just following the previous Christmas so be prepared for a few disappointments. Naturally the larger the establishment the more chance you will have of getting a table but, if your party is large, you may have some difficulty. All these activities are part and parcel of the Christmas Season but even at the risk of being repetitive, do remember everyone else will also be thinking along these lines so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t put it off, get booking now, without delay.

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

CHRisTMAs PARTy NigHTs

MuRs vs MARs TRibuTe

Fridays & Saturdays throughout December

Thursday 15th December

Take your pick from one of our fabulous party nights available on a range of dates. The night includes a three course meal and a disco until early hours of the morning.

Offering all the smash hits from bruno Mars and Olly Murs, this tribute will give you a night of excellent entertainment. includes a three course meal with coffee followed by a disco until 1.00am.

From £24.00 per person

£25.00 per person

FesTiVe DiNNeR & WiNe TAsTiNg

MOTOWN NigHT

Tuesday 20th December

Thursday 22nd December

enjoy a relaxed evening with wine tasting from ‘glory of Wine’ and a four course meal with coffee and petit fours.

sing and dance along to Motown classics and enjoy a three course meal with coffee.

£30.00 per person

£23.00 per person

CHRisTMAs JuMPeR NigHT

POsT-CHRisTMAs PARTy NigHTs

Friday 23rd December

Friday 6th & Saturday 7th January

Wear your favourite Christmas jumper and enjoy a casual night with a festive finger buffet, followed by a disco until 1:00am.

Too busy to celebrate before Christmas? Join us in January when everyone needs a party! includes a festive three course meal anddisco until early hours of the morning.

£18.00 per person

£21.00 per person

Look us up on Trip Advisor

sales@patshull-park.co.uk

01902 700100

www.patshull-park.co.uk

Pattingham, Nr Wolverhampton WV6 7HR

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

The Park house hoTel Shifnal

www.parkhousehotelshifnal.co.uk

2 for 1 on Sunday Lunch Book a table in our restaurant for a traditional 3 course Sunday Lunch at £24.95 and receive another 3 course lunch FREE*.

Please quote Wolverhampton West Magazine when booking. *Valid until 31st December 2016. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. Not valid for private dining or for bookings of more than 6 people. Valid only when 3 courses are purchased.

Join us for Christmas New Christmas brochure now available, first 20 people to request a brochure and book will receive a complimentary bottle of wine.

To reserve a table or for more information on events at The Park House Hotel, please call our sales team now on 01952 460128. The Park House Hotel, Park Street, Shifnal, Telford, TF11 9BA

reservations@parkhousehotel.net

ENJOY A SUNDAY CARVERY AT THE WERGS Come and spend a relaxing sunday afternoon with us SERvED fROm 12pm – 4pm

ONE cOURSE: £11.95 TWO cOURSE: £15.95 THREE cOURSE: £19.95 cHilDREN UNDER 12 (ONE cOURSE): £8.95 Also serving Breakfast, morning coffee and lunches

2 foR £12 Mon to SAt lunChtiMES 12pM – 3pM bookingS AdViSAblE the Wergs

keepers lane, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton West midlands Wv6 8UA e info@wergsgolfclub.com

www.wergsgolfclub.com

fOR fURTHER iNfORmATiON ON GOlf, DiNiNG OR fUNcTiONS OR TO mAkE A

BOOkiNG plEASE cAll

01902 742 225 wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant Established 1989

Air conditioned

Cuisine of Bengal

Fully licensed



FOOD HYGIENE RATING SCHEME 2011

Celebrate your Christmas Party in Style at the Perfect Venue to Dine! Christmas Day Menu now available...

5 course Festive Christmas Menu

Bookings now being taken for 6 course traditional or Bengali style Christmas Day Lunch, Christmas Office Parties and Christmas Family and Friends Get-togethers.

Available from 1st – 24th December for groups of 10 people or more

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

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

“We pride ourselves on our Quality of Food, Excellent Customer Service and Customer Satisfaction.”

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

Recently refurbished in contemporary surroundings, air conditioned and fully licensed. Our popular Take-away Service is still the best in Wombourne offering 10% off our Menu price.

Tel:

01902 324148 01902 324437

Tea or Coffee

only £12.95 per person

Bookings Only

Open 7 days including Bank Holidays - 5.30pm until 11.30pm

High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DN www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

facebook.com/wombourne.tandoori

www.wombournetandoori.com 85

Hammering home the joys

By Rob Taylor

OF Three Hammers

Upon returning to Three Hammers Bar and Bistro, which is annexed to the Three Hammers Golf Complex on the outskirts of Coven, I was given strict instructions from the woman I now lovingly refer to as “er indoors”, that I must not fill my restaurant review with any ‘atrocious golf-based puns’. This is a most prescient reminder. Already now as we are just nearing the point of entry to the modern and stylishly-lit complex, my mind is composing everything and anything even vaguely golf-related and faintly comical. Below-par nonsensical thoughts consisting of quips about flat caps, V-necked jumpers, Rupert Bear chequered trousers tucked into towering socks and shoes with spikes on all feature in my cogitating. Notes on dress codes and all attendant hogwash feature too, until I receive a bolt of wisdom from my aforementioned girlfriend, Nicola.

Walking towards the restaurant, we are delighted to see a friendly and welcoming space, beckoning us inside. Greeted first of all by manager and genial host Astrid Walker; we enjoy a drink in the bustling bar area, before being shown to our table. Immediately I am struck by the warm and homely feel inside, which is full of regulars, laughing merrily and happily putting away the freshly cooked traditional food. A swift nudge to the guts from

She brings the hammer down on every one of my idiotic misunderstandings with all of the might of Thor from Avengers 2 and steers my wayward thinking back onto the green of sense and reason. “The restaurant is attached to the golf complex but anyone can dine there,” she says. Turning into the imposing Old Stafford Road site with hungry tums, we hustle for cover to dodge a sharp summer shower, neither of us being as keen or determined as the golfers heading out across the rolling acreage for a short round of 18. A round of drinks is what we are after. 86

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

over the dessert menu. For me: a ‘Banana Split’ (£4.95) – ‘fresh slices of banana combined with scoops of vanilla and strawberry ice-creams, topped off with swirls of cream, chocolate sauce and a wafer’; for Nicola, ‘Treacle Sponge’ (£4.95) – ‘light sponge enhanced with luscious treacle served piping hot with ice-cream’. The two dishes are a delightful duo, which prove to be a veritable feast of sugary goodness on which to end our evening.

Nicola tells me that not one of the diners are demonstrably dressed in golfing attire - since the restaurant is open to everyone, not just members. We dive into the main menu, which has a good selection of starters ranging from £3.95 to about £9.85, for platters to share. It’s all very affordable and all very appetising. I go for ‘Bistro Caesar Salad’ (£5.25), which consists of ‘freshly chopped tossed salad laden with crispy bacon, chicken pieces and croutons, drizzled with Caesar dressing and topped with Parmesan cheese.’ What tempts Nicola is ‘Oriental Crab Cakes’ (£5.95); a delicious combination of Cornish crab meat and cod, coated with a crisp coriander crumb and served on a bed of crispy lettuce, with a sweet chilli dip.’ My salad is a classic: oft repeated, but seldom perfected. In this case it hits all the right notes; the salad has just the right amount of zing and zest; the chicken is flavoursome and the bacon is deliciously crisp. Nicola’s choice brings similar approval, with particular acclaim for the sweet chilli dip.

And Three Hammers caters not only to those of you in need of a night-time feed, but also offers a ‘Lite-Bites’ luncheon menu; breakfast from 10am; a special ‘Grill-Night’ on Tuesdays and on Sunday and Monday nights you can get a starter/main or main/ sweet combo with 50% off the food bill. The bistro also regularly accommodates large parties for all occasions - as we saw this evening, when a gathering of 50 sat comfortably inside the conservatory annex. All in all, the Three Hammers is whisper it - a hole lot of fun. Situated on the 3 Hammers Golf Complex, Old Stafford Road, near Coven, Wolverhampton WV10 7PP

For bookings please telephone: 01902 791917

Sitting back and soaking up the surrounding we enjoy observing the well-oiled workings of the well appointed and tastefully decorated dining space on a busy weeknight. Already it’s quite clear to us that the restaurant owes its fine reputation in no small part to both management and staff; always friendly and accommodating, the evening is already shaping up rather well. Promptly and professionally the mains arrive and I’m quickly struck by the quality of the food, which ought not to be underestimated either, when accounting for the venue’s popularity. The mains arrive and they are towering examples of value-for-money eating-out. The plates are packed to the gunwales; steaming hot, invitingly aromatic and in the case of my choice – ‘Round The World Mixed Grill’ (£14.95), which is ‘Cajun rump steak, garlic pork, Balti lamb, Chinese kebab and Mexican chicken served with mushrooms, tomatoes, onion rings and chips’ – full of that indefinable glowing hue that so coats any well-cooked meat dish. My taste buds are tingling. Every bit of this meat feast is tender and moist; the chips are soft and pillowy; the onion rings, crisp. The standout performer of the group is the Balti lamb, which is tangy and dripping with the exotic. Nicola opts for ‘16oz Jumbo Cod (£14.45)’; a massive 16 ounces of succulent prime cod fillet, coated in a light crispy batter, deep fried and served with lemon.’ Pure happiness is understating the response I receive from this ardent fish fanatic. Having devoured every last morsel of the generously over-sized dishes, we refill our glasses and ponder www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Wergs golf Club

The ideal venue for Christenings, birthdays, Anniversaries, Wakes and Christmas Parties

What’s On at thE WERGs:

If you are looking for somewhere to hold a Staff Christmas Party, The Wergs is the place for you!

every WeD FrOm 30th NOv tO 21St Dec // 12pm ‘til 3pm

Fri 9th Dec // 7pm

live enTerTAinmenT

Wergs ChrisTmAs fAyre

from X fACTor’s Joe WhelAn And disCo £25 per perSON includes 3 course meal. We can accommodate small or large parties. Avoid disappointment and book now, places are going quick! Dress code: smart casual.

£9.95 per heaD - 2 course £12.95 per heaD - 3 course Wergs are holding a Christmas Fayre Carvery Menu between 12-3pm. Bookings essential. Dress code: smart casual.

The Wergs

For FUrTher inForMATion on GoLF,

Keepers Lane, Tettenhall Wolverhampton West Midlands WV6 8UA e info@wergsgolfclub.com

DininG or FUncTions or To MAKe A

www.wergsgolfclub.com

FrOm 7.30pm ‘til late

neW yeArs eve gAlA nighT

WiTh Joe WhelAn ONly £60 per ticket! Book now to avoid disappointment. Welcome in the New Year with our fantastic celebrations. Champagne and canapés on arrival, followed by sumptuous buffet, dance the night away to Heartbeat, firework display at midnight. A superb night! Dress code: black tie, suits or very dapper!

booKinG pLeAse cALL

01902 742 225

BAR & BISTRO www.3hammers.co.uk

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

TUESDAY GRILL NIGHT 2 delicious grills and a bottle of selected wine for only £19.95

An ideal venue for private parties including family celebrations and funerals from groups of 2 up to 120. Special Buffet Menus also available.

Christmas bookings now being taken, menus available, please call for details. BAR OPEN FROM 10am until 11pm Breakfast served 10am -12pm (not Sunday). Lunch & Evening Meals served Weekdays & Saturdays: 12noon-2pm & 6pm-9pm, Sunday: 12noon-3pm & 5.30pm-9pm

To avoid disappointment please book, tel: 01902 791917 3hammersbarandbistro@gmail.com Situated on the 3 Hammers Golf Complex, Old Stafford Road, Coven, Nr Wolverhampton WV10 7PP

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Exciting Times

for Rubicon Casino to be able to offer them free, secure car parking outside.”

It’s rare for an inner city site to offer parking but Rubicon’s customers can rest assured that their vehicle will be looked after when they visit. “We have a manned car park opposite that has space for a hundred vehicles and is monitored by seven CCTV cameras at all times.” The team at the casino have gone out of their way to ensure that their customers feel safe whenever they’re visiting Rubicon.

After two years of extensive redevelopment and an investment of over five million pounds, Wolverhampton’s Rubicon Casino is almost ready to reveal its exciting new look and stateof-the-art facilities. The Temple Street venue has expanded into its neighbouring building, a former landmark site in the city that once housed a ballroom, rollerdrome, bingo hall and most recently a nightclub. Being mindful to preserve the history of the city, whilst creating a fabulous new chapter for Wolverhampton, the group behind the redevelopment - Casino 36, who also own Castle Casino in Dudley - has succeeded in utilising the original buildings to form the new high-tech Casino.

“We’ve made a massive investment in Wolverhampton because we can see how much potential there is here and we hope that we’ll encourage other businesses to invest in the city too.” The casino has retained its original members of staff as well as creating jobs for a further 100 people. Spread over four floors, the casino has been given a sleek, modern design and boasts outstanding facilities for all customers. “In addition to our gaming floor there’s a sports bar, two restaurants, a V.I.P area - including a Champagne V.I.P. bar, stage and our amazing roof terrace - that’s half the size of a football pitch.” There are T.V screens throughout the casino that are linked to the betting machines and even an internal lottery. “We’ve worked really hard to create an excellent venue for our members and are delighted

“Being socially responsible in all areas of the business is incredibly important to us. We adhere to strict procedures set out by the Gambling Commission and we’re also part of the SENSE (Self-Enrolment National Self-Exclusion) scheme that’s designed to help people who think they have a problem with gambling.” At Rubicon it’s not just about betting though: “We want people to enjoy all aspects of our venue and feel that they can relax with friends, meet for lunch or enjoy a drink whether they’re gambling or not.” And there’s no doubt that the redesigned casino will be winning many new customers when it opens its doors in the coming weeks. “The excitement is really building now and we’re looking forward to announcing our official opening date very soon,” adds Craig. Everyone is welcome to attend the launch night, so watch this space.

Group manager, Craig Dobson explains: “We are really proud to be a part of the regeneration of Wolverhampton and are pleased to be able to invest in both the city and its people. “We wanted to work with the original building to create the new casino, rather than pull it down, because we know that the site holds lots of happy memories for many locals.” The completely redesigned casino is set to draw business to Wolverhampton, create new jobs and offer residents an exciting destination for a night out in the city centre. 90

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

passionate about Pyro

Lighting up the sky for any special occasion, Wolverhampton-based pyrotechnics company, Fire Monkey Pyro has long been amazing clients with their fabulous firework displays.

United Kingdom, Fire Monkey Pyro cater for a whole range of different events, as owner and creative director, Alex Collins explains: “We provide fireworks for all kinds of occasions, no matter how big or small the event. We do everything from a small budget house warming display to a large digitally choreographed show - as well as all sorts of pyromusicals.”

Creating spectacular and extravagant shows, across the

And Fire Monkey’s pyrotechnics are the perfect way to make your special occasion extra special. “Our wedding packages incorporate beautiful, delicate colours that glitter in the sky to create a romantic mood. For our larger parties and corporate events we design a jaw-dropping display using our biggest and most stunning shells.”

(left to right) Directors Leanne Pumphrey and Alex Collins with Mikey Woodcock (a member of the setup crew rigging the displays)

Alex and co-owner and creative director, Leanne Pumphrey, painstakingly plan each event to ensure that it’s just as the client imagined. “It can take months of planning to design some of our larger shows, as we spend a lot of time sourcing

the right fireworks, choosing the music and synchronising each tiny flash and colour combination.” Passionate about pyrotechnics, the company work tirelessly to ensure that every detail is addressed. “Our company motto is ‘passionate about pyro’ and it shows in every display we do from start to finish.” It’s not just the display that the Fire Monkey Pyro take care of though, they also conduct a site survey and risk assessment, form a personalised display plan and tidy up after the event to ensure that no mess is left behind. And safety is, of course, a priority for the company, that’s why they use only quality fireworks and ensure that every member of the team is BPA (British Pyrotechnic Association) qualified and fully insured. So, why not make your event extra special by designing a bespoke firework display? Contact the friendly team on 07506 780685 today.

We provide tailor made firework packages for all events including: Weddings, Private Parties, Birthdays and New Years Eve Celebrations.

For further details please call 07506 780685 or email: firemonkeypyro@gmail.com

www.firemonkeypyro.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Himley Hall A local treasure

Weddings at Himley Hall

Himley Hall is an eighteenth century Grade II* listed building set in 180 acres of ‘Capability Brown’ landscaped parkland. As the former stately home of the Earl of Dudley Himley Hall was a luxurious, up-to-date home, so fashionable that in the 1930’s it was a regular weekend retreat for Royal visitors, including Edward, Prince of Wales. In 1934 the Duke and Duchess of Kent spent the first two weeks of their honeymoon at Himley. Today, couples may marry where Royal newlyweds once took their honeymoon, and photograph their special day in the grounds where princes and earls once strolled.

WEDDING DAY CHOICES Himley Hall offers a wide range of options for weddings including full wedding packages of Ceremony, Wedding Breakfast and Evening Celebration with disco, Wedding Breakfast and Evening celebration or simply a ceremony only. Himley Hall now has 3 licensed ceremony rooms, the Pink and the Green Rooms have views

towards the Great Lake of Himley Park. The Oak Room overlooks the Hall’s courtyard. The Pink Room, once the Earl of Dudley’s library, can host up to 45 guests including the wedding couple with private access onto the terrace of Himley Hall for celebratory drinks and photographs. The newly licensed Oak Room is licensed for up to 55 guests. The former dining room of the Earls of Dudley, the elegant

Green Room is a perfect setting for larger ceremonies of up to 75 guests including the wedding couple and also has views towards the Great Lake. The terrace may also be accessed from the adjacent Pink Room.

RECEPTION ROOMS Wedding Breakfasts for 45-90 guests may be held in several of Himley Hall’s refurbished rooms; the Green Room with its dazzling chandelier, the Oak Room; a delightful wood panelled room overlooking the courtyard and in the sumptuous Art-Deco style Swimming Pool Room in the North Wing. This wing of the Hall is also home to the Cinema Bar, the Earl of Dudley’s former private cinema, now transformed into an elegant 1930’s style lounge bar and offering a cosy retreat from the livelier Swimming Pool during your celebration. The Swimming Pool Room is complete with dance floor, lighting and sound system specifically designed for evening functions for 80-140 guests, either following a wedding breakfast or following a late ceremony.

If you would like to discuss how the team at Himley Hall can help make your wedding day special and memorable or to arrange to view the ceremony and reception rooms please contact the wedding co-ordinator on 01384 817817. 92

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Wedded Bliss

at The Park House Hotel there has been no compromise on quality or choice. If you have larger numbers for your big day, they offer another package at £4,250 for 70 day guests and 120 evening guests with the same inclusions. With over 50 bedrooms at the Park House, the Bridal Suite boasts a floor space larger than some apartments! There is a cosy living room with sofa, dressing area and flat screen TV. The opulent bedroom is home to a King Sized four poster bed and the bathroom boasts an amazing large hot tub Jacuzzi and Double sink. There really isn’t a better way to spend your wedding night.

The Park House Hotel in Shifnal has recently been reviewed by the AA and they have confirmed their 4 star rating is as strong as ever! The hotel has undergone (and is still undergoing!) lots of positive changes over the last 12 months. With some changes in senior management, and some fresh positive ideas, the Park House has redesigned its wedding packages and brought back its bespoke Wedding Planning Service, that saw it reach amazing heights in previous years. Not only has the hotel brought in some attractive ‘All Inclusive’ Wedding Packages, with exclusive use included on some of the dates available, the

hotel has also created a complete bespoke planning service for all aspects of your wedding. Their new ‘broken down’ service allows you to choose your own menu, build your own drinks package, add canapes, swap options around and create your dream day to suit exactly what you are looking for. If the idea of a total complete package, with a pre-agreed price before you start sounds more attractive, they can certainly accommodate your requirements. With “all-inclusive” packages from just £3,000 which includes a sit down meal for 40 people, with drinks included along with an evening Hog roast for 80 people. The price also includes a DJ until 1am, Cake Stand and Knife, Table Linen and a room for the night of the wedding and there are no room hire charges or hidden extras! It really is an amazing offer and

So whether you are looking for a small intimate wedding, or planning a big grand affair, there is most definitely something to suit your plans and budget at the Park House. Have a look at their new website at www.parkhousehotelshifnal.co.uk. If you want to make an appointment for a look around the hotel, then contact the Wedding Manager on 01952 460128. They also hold a ‘Wedding Open Day’ every Sunday, from around 11am, where you can view the rooms in all their Wedding Glory, set up exactly as they would be at a real wedding. Without a doubt, the Park House Hotel has upped its game for 2016 and 2017 and the packages along with its bespoke service is set to be a hit with the future Brides and Grooms of Shropshire.

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

The Park house hoTel Shifnal

All Inclusive Wedding Packages 2017 Dobson suite

40 Day Guests and 80 Evening Guests

ÂŁ3,000

GarDen suite

70 Day Guests and 120 Evening Guests

ÂŁ4,250

For further details please contact our sales team on 01952 460128 email: weddings@parkhousehotel.net visit: www.parkhousehotelshifnal.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk The Park House Hotel,

Park Street, Shifnal, Telford TF11 9BA

WEDDING SYMBOLS AND SUPERSTITIONS of plenty and fertility. In the Middle Ages children were employed to scatter flowers before the feet of the bride as she came out of the church - the little flower girl so often seen at weddings today, is a development of this tradition. In the 19th century at American weddings, a huge bell made from white flowers was often hung over the spot where the bride and groom stood during the ceremony.

Perhaps the most obvious symbol of a marriage is the wedding ring and yet, following an Act of Parliament in 1837, it isn’t a legal requirement for a wedding.

ring and a different one for the engagement. In many parts of Europe an identical pair of gold bands are exchanged by a couple on engagement and worn on the right hand until the wedding when they are transferred over to the left. In this country up until the 16th century, the wedding ring was in fact always worn on the right hand, a custom still followed by nuns when they take their vows.

It is a tradition however and it takes more than an Act of Parliament to change that. But why a ring? Well there are several theories. Its circular shape is said to denote a perfect union - no beginning, no end. Less romantically, it may have symbolized the attaching ring of the chain which bound the girl to the groom, in effect passing ownership of her from her father to her husband. Gold is again a comparatively new metal for this purpose, iron or bronze were often used instead in days gone by.

The selection of the third finger on the left hand is also interesting. It was once thought that a special nerve or fine vein, the vena amoris, ran from this finger directly to the heart. In Roman Catholic tradition the first three fingers (including the thumb) represent the Holy Trinity and during the Catholic ceremony the ring is first placed on the thumb, first and second finger in turn while saying “In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost” and then on the third finger where it is supposed to rest permanently after saying “Amen”.

The separate engagement ring is something we have inherited from the Romans. A costly ring sealed the marriage contract and formed part of the price the groom paid to the bride’s father, as opposed to the dowry the bride herself brought to the marriage. Interestingly, we are one of the few cultures that use both a wedding 96

Shoes are common symbols of luck at weddings today. The origin is not so romantic. Anglo Saxon fathers gave one of the shoes of their daughter to the man they were to marry. He would then tap her on the head with it to signify his control over her. The garter often worn by a bride for fun, is a remnant of the Elizabethan custom of grabbing ‘favours’ from the bride as she emerged from church. These could be anything from the ribbons and buttons on her dress, to her gloves, girdle, purse or garters. One can only imagine what she would have looked like after such an assault. On the subject of the bridal dress, embellishments such as pearls and opals are considered a big ‘no no’ where brides are concerned as both were once thought to signify tears. If the gown is made by a private dressmaker, tradition has it she would sew a hair from her head into the gown’s hem. This is to prevent the dressmaker becoming so

Another potent symbol of marriage is the bouquet. It was originally one of the wreaths and garlands carried by revellers on any festive occasion. Indeed even in the 19th century, brides often carried wreaths rather than bouquets at their weddings. In early country weddings the bridal wreath was often formed from ears of corn or wheat - strong symbols wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

will be the one who rules the roost. To ensure her own dominance therefore, the bride should buy a pin from her chief bridesmaid as she dresses for the honeymoon trip. Country brides used to ‘tell the bees’ of their imminent wedding and after the reception, the first thing they did before going away was to leave a slice of cake at the hive entrance. This ensured the best of luck in the years to come. Then there is that well known rhyme all potential brides come to know: ‘Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.’ jealous that she places a curse on the gown. If her hair is incorporated into the dress any curse will fall on her as well as on the wearer of the gown, i.e., the bride! The bride should not wear her full bridal outfit before leaving for the church. If she must try the whole outfit on she should leave one shoe off. The day and month of a wedding have always been considered important yet in one respect, the most ignored. The rhyme goes: ‘Monday for health, Tuesday for wealth, Wednesday the best day of all. Thursday brings crosses; Friday brings losses, Saturday no luck at all!’ Yet Saturday is today the most popular of all for a wedding. Month-wise there are no specific taboos other than for May which has always been considered a bad month in the past. If the sun shines on a wedding it is considered extremely fortunate. In Germany however every drop of rain that falls on a bride is considered a blessing.

wedding morn too or bad luck is sure to follow. The best man should give the groom a lucky charm to carry in his pocket on the day of the wedding, and once they have left for the church he should not allow the groom to turn back no matter what he has forgotten. If necessary the best man should return home himself for the forgotten item. In the church the groom should wait patiently in his seat until the bride arrives at his side. He should never look back to watch her coming. She should not look back either but must stare steadfastly ahead no matter what commotion occurs behind as she approaches the altar. After the ceremony the best man should pay the clergyman his fee and must ensure it is an odd sum of money, never an even one. When the bride dresses to go away she should throw away all the pins that attach her headdress or veil. The married partner who makes the first purchase after the wedding

This has some very real and ancient meanings. The something old represents tradition and continuity of the family. Something new represents the newly married state of the couple and the new branch of the family they will thereby be creating. Something borrowed denotes their dependence on the rest of the family and friends for support and the whole group’s interdependence. Something blue was very important as blue was the colour of true love and constancy and the colour the Virgin Mary is often shown to be wearing. Indeed at one time it was considered the best colour of all for the wedding gown. Finally, as the bride leaves for her honeymoon she should turn her back on the crowd and throw the bouquet over her head. Whoever catches it will be the next to wed. Needless to say the catcher should be female and unmarried or real complications could ensue!

Brides meeting a lamb, dove, spider, black cat or chimney sweep on the way to church can be assured of good luck to follow. She should however avoid meeting a pig or seeing a funeral as these are bad omens. If she lives in the country she should wear ear plugs on her last single night since it is bad luck for her to hear the crowing of a cock on the wedding morn. Everyone knows the groom should never see the bride in her gown before the wedding or it may be the only time he sees her dressed thus. He must avoid seeing her on the www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Fantastic milestone reached for Wedding Coordinator at local Wolverhampton Venue

Patshull Park Hotel is renowned as one of the most professional and scenic wedding venues in the Wolverhampton and Telford area. Located in the Shropshire countryside, Patshull Park Hotel is situated near the village of Pattingham and only a few minutesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; drive from Tettenhall and Shifnal. The hotel provides a glorious lakeside backdrop for those lifelong memories, and

our dedicated staff are experts in planning and fulfilling every detail of your special day. Consistently high standards and experienced staff are two important factors when choosing a wedding venue; the wedding co-ordinator at Patshull Park is Jo Guest, who in June achieved the incredible landmark of coordinating her 1000th wedding during an 18 year career at Patshull Park. Jo and her colleagues have justifiably developed a superb reputation within the West Midlands - our

clients often comment about the relaxed and friendly wedding planning process, the superb attention to detail, and the professional and caring support that is available at each wedding. Patshull Park is a resort hotel with 49 en suite bedrooms, banqueting for up to 250 persons, Spa and Fitness Club, and an 18 hole parkland golf course. For more details call Jo Guest on 01902 700100 or email us via our web site www.patshull-park.co.uk

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Wedding Fair Sunday 9th October Come along between 11.00am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3.00pm and explore our beautiful venue and meet a wide range of our preferred suppliers. Our professional and experienced team will be on hand to show you round and answer any questions you may have. Special offers for those booking their wedding on the day.

Free Entry

Call 01902 700100 Pattingham, Nr Wolverhampton WV6 7HR sales@patshull-park.co.uk www.patshull-park.co.uk Look us up on Trip Advisor

Great location, convenient to J3 M54 and only 20 minutes from the centre of Wolverhampton and Telford.

Photography for all occasions Wedding Events

Newborn Family

Commercial Portraits

Fixed price and bespoke packages available Contact us for more details

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Essential planning

for your big day: Hair and Beauty by Helen Taylor As soon as that sparkly ring is placed on your finger, it’s time to start planning your wedding day. Organisation is key if you want everything to be perfect and you can never start too soon. Whether it’s booking the venue or looking for a dress, thinking ahead really does pay off, and, it’s exactly the same when it comes to forming your hair and beauty routine.

‘Model wears ‘Giovanna’ Embellished Dress £595.00. Phase Eight.’

Glowing skin, shiny hair and flawless make up are musthaves for your big day, but to achieve them you’ll have to put some work in. Here are our top wedding hair and beauty tips.

Loose Some Length Unless your tresses are in tiptop condition, don’t hesitate in losing some length. Getting rid of split, straggly ends will instantly boost the look of your hair. Taking a break from having your hair coloured and stopping using styling tools will massively benefit the condition of your hair. Regular treatments are essential for maximising shine and maintaining the condition of your locks, fast forward six months and your hair will be more than ready for your big day.

Give Your Skin Some T.L.C Address any skin issues you have as soon as you can. Whether your skin is acne prone, dry or combination, invest in products 100

that’ll cater for its needs and treat yourself to frequent facials.

Or, if you’re using fake tan, make sure it’ll to be an exact match.

And it’s not just the skin on your face you’ll need to attend to. If you’re baring your arms, back, shoulders or chest, you’ll need to ensure that the skin on your body is as flawless as on your face. So, exfoliate and moisturise regularly.

Keep brows full but groomed, try out lash extensions for a pretty look and don’t be afraid to opt for slightly stronger lipstick and blusher hues than you’d usually go for when wearing white more colour on the lips is particularly flattering.

Update Your Make-Up Look

Snap Plenty of Selfies

It’s so easy to get stuck in a makeup rut, but with your wedding on the horizon there has never been a better time to dedicate some time to experimenting with your cosmetics.

Take a picture, in natural light, to get a good idea of what each make-up look will be like.

Put on a white top - it’ll give you a good idea of how the make-up will look with your white gown - and position yourself next to a window. Seeing your make-up in natural light is essential, especially if you’re planning on lots of outdoor photographs. Be sure that whatever base you choose matches the tone of your skin at the time of your wedding - if it’s a summer wedding you’ll be darker than if it’s a winter wedding.

Experiment with lots of different make-up styles to see which suits you best. Take notice of how the look pairs with your hair colour and style. It’s best to opt for a professional opinion when it comes to deciding on how to colour your hair ready for your big day. The right hair colour will massively enhance the look of your skin and compliment your make-up look. And, don’t forget to share your snaps with family and friends.

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

3D-Lipomed at

Cosmetique

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

“The machine also has duo Cryolipolysis, which is a system that freezes fat cells, allowing them to be drained out of the body through the lymphatic system.”

Owner, Suky Chana, has just introduced 3D-Lipomed - a brandnew 3D Lipo treatment - that offers clients impressive weight-loss results.

Although every treatment is bespoke, each session has a fixed price of £150.

The treatments are planned around the individual needs of the client, utilising each of the systems to achieve optimum results.

“We use each of the different methods available from the 3D-Lipomed machine to achieve the best results for our clients and work to a set price for each session.”

As Suky explains: “The 3D-Lipomed is an upgraded device to 3D Lipo and it’s only available in aesthetic clinics. It’s a powerful machine that non-surgically removes fat cells, treats cellulite and provides skin tightening for the face and body.”

Most people need an average of six to eight sessions, one each week.

The process begins with Cavitation, a non-invasive contouring body treatment for localised fat and cellulite. Radio frequency is incorporated into the treatment to start tightening up the skin.

“You can get a beach body in only eight weeks with our amazing treatment and you don’t even need to exercise, just attend the clinic each week. It is important to eat sensibly though if you really want to maximise the results from the treatment.”

By introducing 3D-Lipomed to the clinic, the team at Cosmetique have made it easy for you to get the body you’ve always wanted.

So, why not book in for a treatment today?

3D –LIPOMED SPECIAL OFFER Package price only £99 per treatment. Available throughout September & October 2016. 1 off treatment remain at £150.

570 Penn Road Penn Wolverhampton WV4 4HU

Clinically led with all procedures carried out by qualified staff • • • • • •

Laser Hair Removal IPL Pigmentation Scars Blemishes Stretch Marks Collagen Enhancement

• • • • • •

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

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

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

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wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Cosmetic Surgery

f r o m E x p e r t s yo u c a n T r u s t

Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital set in six acres of beautiful wooded grounds

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

West Midlands, Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital is proud to offer patients the highest standards of consultation, safe treatment and aftercare, at affordable prices. Our hospital, based in Tettenhall for the last 38 years, is also the medical supplier to Wolverhampton Wanderers FC. Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery at our hospital on Wood Road is conducted in ultra-clean environments by a dedicated team of experienced cosmetic surgeons. All our cosmetic surgeons are highly qualified and hold all the relevant professional health accreditations – being part of the Specialist Register of the General Medical Council and the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, where their details can be found on www.baaps.org. uk and the British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Procedures available include breast augmentation, uplift and reduction, body contouring, tummy tucks and liposuction, dermal fillers, face and neck lifts, brow uplifts, eye, nose, ear and chin reshaping, mole removal and varicose vein treatments.

Reception area of the private hospital

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

For the last two years, we have been named twice as a top performing hospital, and the first Nuffield Health hospital, of

Consultant Plastic Surgeon Mr Darren Lewis

31 in the UK, to be awarded JAG accreditation for the highest clinical standards and best practice in Endoscopy. Most recently in a patient satisfaction survey when asked at the end of their treatment, “How likely is it that you would recommend this service to friends and family?” an impressive 100% of all the Wolverhampton patients surveyed said yes they would. Remember the training and experience of your surgeon makes the difference to your treatment outcome. With proper counselling and careful treatment, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery can have a powerful, positive impact on your life. To help you make the right choice, there are upcoming free information events, hosted by specialist cosmetic surgery consultants Mr Darren Lewis and Mr Naiem Moiemen, from 6.00 – 7.30pm at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital on Wood Road, Tettenhall: The next event is on Wednesday 12 October. To book a place, or for more information, please ring 01902 793269 or go to www.nuffieldhealth.com/ hospitals/wolverhampton

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wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Heaven

by Deborah Mitchell Ageing is a fact of life. It affects us all. But with Deborah Mitchell’s Heaven Skincare Range, it needn’t show on your face. Deborah’s skin-perfecting products containing her signature patented ingredient *ABEETOXIN®, have gained a worldwide reputation as the ‘natural answer to Botulism Toxin’, which is the most acutely toxic substance known. Already with a massive celebrity and Royal following, Heaven Skincare positions itself as a revolutionary range that works to heal the emotional triggers for skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea, as well as anti-ageing. “With so many consumers becoming conscious of ingredients and their impact, on health and the environment, we do what we do best and look to nature for the answer,” explained Deborah. *ABEETOXIN® is created

using bee venom, Royal Jelly and Manuka honey. No bees are harmed when collecting the venom for our formula; bees are stimulated safely for venom and these bees yield more honey than their non-stimulated counterparts. Win, win, bee-autiful skin, safe bees and more honey production! There are no known contra-indications to ABEETOXIN®, even for people allergic to bee stings! Deborah, who has been a therapist since she was 18 years old, created Heaven Skincare out of a need to find effective, natural skincare that heals, prevents and protects, creating beautiful skin and inner confidence for her clients. She opened her first salon in Shifnal, in 1995 and has gone from strength to strength. Heaven Health & Beauty has just won the ‘Most Charming Salon’ in the Hotel & Lux Awards. Deborah, herself, has more recently won another Stevie Award for Creative Executive of the Year, 2016, the Cleanse & Foam Wash won the ‘Best Wash Off Cleanser’ award in the FreeFrom Skincare Awards 2016. The brand new BeePeel™ product has been shortlisted for

the Best New Anti-Ageing product in the Pure Beauty Awards. The revolutionary, natural-chemical BeePeel™ blurs the lines between cosmetology and natural skincare. Delivering never before-seen results to treat fine lines, wrinkles, Hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tones, BeePeel™ contains *ABEETOXIN®, coconut oil, raw cane sugar and apple pectin to gently, but effectively, dissolve away skin imperfections, leaving your face looking bright, refined and dewy! And all without the downtime associated with regular chemical peels. It is safe for sensitive skins. “Hyperpigmentation, is the most ageing skin concern, much more so than wrinkles, and although, prevention is the key to pigmentation by using facial SPF’s like my Silk Bee-Bee creams, when the damage has been done, BeePeel™, will help to repair and rejuvenate the skin,” Deborah clarifies. Treat your skin like royalty! Heaven is available in 82 salons nationwide, plus internationally. Travel-sized Heaven products are in First Class on Singapore Airlines! Deborah’s biggest achievement has been the creation and innovation of the original Bee-Venom Mask. Deborah’s story will be documented on Channel 4, where you can spend time in the life of Deb! Watch how she gets called away last minute, to treat some of the most famously beautiful faces in the world!

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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A u t u m n S t y l e At

The long hot days of summer are now well and truly behind us, and as hard as it is to say goodbye to glorious foreign sunshine, white beaches and summer cocktails, it’s also exciting to look forward to the autumn days that lie ahead. And that’s because the new season provides the perfect time of year to experiment with a gorgeous new hair look. 106

So, we caught up with Nick at Royston Blythe to bring you all the advice you’ll need to find your perfect style for autumn.

How can we make a stylish transition into the new season? “Take inspiration from Victoria Beckham, Cara Delevingne and Gigi Hadid by opting for a shorter look. “Shorter styles are incredibly versatile and look gorgeous when worn with soft waves in early autumn. And, they can be easily glammed up when the party season approaches. wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

“When it comes to colour, the Balayage technique is perfect for adding dimension and life to your locks, resulting in a beautiful colour look. Introducing warm tones to already sun-kissed locks is the ideal way to add warmth to a winter complexion.”

What are your top tips for reviving hair after a summer spent indulging in a little too much sun, sea and sand? “Firstly, book in for a trim or restyle to get rid of those split ends. Secondly, refresh your hair colour warmer and richer tones are great for leaving a super glossy finish. “Thirdly, try to limit the amount of times you cleanse your hair each week to retain your hair’s natural oils so that it stays healthier for longer. Plus, if you’ve been bleaching or highlighting your tresses the follicle will be more porous anyway, so it’ll absorb excess oil and look less greasy. “Finally, it’s essential to re-hydrate your locks because summer sunshine plays havoc with the hair’s moisture levels - we always recommend Kerastase Fusio Dose treatments.”

Are the Kerastase Fusio Dose treatments suitable for all hair types? “Yes, they’re completely personalised to suit all individual

needs. We make a professional hair diagnosis in the salon and create a customised mix of concentrated, blended active ingredients to completely transform hair and replenish moisture levels. And, clients can keep up the good work out of the salon

by investing in a home hair care treatment to use weekly.” To update your style this season book in at the salon today.

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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The Cross- Body bag is a continued favourite with its classic shape and functionality.

Vivienne Westwood £280

Michael Kors Cross Body £155 Ted Baker Cross Body £99

The Saddle Bag emerges as a key accessory style especially with the seventies vibe still being shown by a number of designers....

Michael Kors Saddle Bag £195

Michael Kors Saddle Bag £240

The Backpack is here to stay but think stud detail or croc effect to really stay ahead in the fashion stakes.

Ted Baker £189

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Michael Kors Rhea Bag £310

Armani Jeans £139

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

The Bucket Bag for this season has been updated with colour or interesting textures.

Prepare for autumn 2016

Which bag will you be carrying next season?

Vivienne Westwood £235

With an expanding brand profile including Armani Jeans, Vivienne Westwood, Versace Jeans, Calvin Klein and Michael Kors there’s something for everyone to get excited about.

Vivienne Westwood £260

Ted Baker £159

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Visit Diffusion in Wolverhampton, Merry Hill Centre, Telford or Walsall, or online at diffusiononline.co.uk

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Accessories for

Autumn

By Helen Taylor

It’s not just your clothes that need updating this season, your accessories do too. And there’s no better way to complete your autumnal look than with a brand new pair of shoes, a statement bag and some pretty pieces of jewellery.

Here are our favourite buys: Model Wears:

Dorothy Perkins

Black ankle boots £79 Grey ankle boots £75 Bowler bag £89 Leopard print ankle boots £75 Red ankle boots £75 Tote bag £145 Hat £28 Court shoes £59 Over the knee boots £135 Tote bag £85 Cross body bag £59 Leather gloves £16 Leopard print bag £139 Tote bag £149 Knee high boots £119 All J by Jasper Conran at Debenhams 110

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Aztec Print Scarf £35 Maisons de Nimes at House of Fraser

Handbags £39 All Dickins & Jones at House of Fraser

Feather Scarf £22 Accessorize

Shoes £140 Michael Kors at Diffusion

Handbag £310 Michael Kors at Diffusion

Handbag £179.99 Radley Bag £140 Michael Kors at Diffusion

Shoes £130 Michael Kors at Diffusion

Shoes £110 Michael Kors at Diffusion

Leather Gloves £49 Phase Eight

Handbag £340 Michael Kors at Diffussion

Bering Sapphire Glass Watch £179 exclusively at T.A. Henn, Wolverhampton

Ti Sento Jewellery from £25 at T.A. Henn, Wolverhampton www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Aristocats Autumn/W inter Aristocats aim to provide excellent customer service to women who appreciate quality fashion.

2016

Whatever the event our stylish Autumn/Winter designs will take individuals effortlessly to a wide range of functions, casual or formal, daytime, weddings, after six, cocktail or late evening. Our professional staff are always on hand, if required, to help with decision making and offer alternatives to customers from the West Midlands, Shropshire and further afield from the wide range of fashion designers.

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wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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

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

Co-ordinated Day Wear • Coats • Cocktail & Evening Wear Lingerie • Accessories • Belts • Bags • Jewellery • Hosiery 234www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Coalway Road, Penn,Wolverhampton WV3 7NN Tel: 01902 344003

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Dermaco Aesthetics

wins prestigious Clarins Gold Salon Award again! Julie Pearce and Linda Emmerson, owners of The Beauty Rooms, have been awarded the Clarins Gold Salon of the Year Award – one of the highest national accolades in the beauty salon business – making this the second consecutive win for the team. Last year, the dynamic duo were awarded the title for their Wall Heath salon and this year they have outdone themselves, scoring an impressive 100% on their test shop, making their Penn salon the 23rd Gold Salon to join the elite group of winners. When asked about how it feels to have won such a prestigious award, Julie said, “I was overwhelmed to win a second time. It was especially lovely to be able to show Mandy Chamberlain, Clarins Sales Director, the luxury Massage Pedicure Chairs we invested in with last year’s prize money. This year we are investing it in our staff by taking everyone to Portugal for a weekend as a huge thank you for all their hard work and dedication. I’m incredibly proud of The Beauty Rooms team. To have both salons win the title of Clarins Gold Salon of the Year is a dream come true.”

laser hair removal, as well as specialist treatments using the salon’s hi-tech beauty equipment:

Comcit Machine

Combining micro-current facial toning, crystal free microdermabrasion, LED light therapy, bio-lift skin combing and ultra-sound, the system offers clients a face lift without surgery. “We offer a skin lift, ultimate skin lift, eye lift or jowl lift. Treatment times range between 30 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes and we recommend 10 sessions for amazing results.”

Massage Pedicure Chairs

As the first salon in the West Midlands to introduce the Comcit machine, clients have come from afar to benefit from its amazing anti-ageing treatments.

The perfect way to relax and unwind - or enjoy a catch up with a friend -a pedicure at the salon is made extra special by a pair of luxury massage chairs.

“Comcit treats lines and wrinkles, ageing, lax skin, as well as sun damage, stretch marks and skin that’s acne prone or acne scarred,” says Julie.

“Clients can enjoy two treatments for the price of one when they book in for a pedicure at the salon, thanks to our amazing massage chairs” adds Julie.

Comcit Machine

DermaCo Aesthetics Machine

The Beauty Rooms Spa offer the best beauty treatments and are equipped with the latest technology. There’s Shellac and Jessica nails, facials, massages, hot stones, body wraps, spray tans, spa treatments,

Massage Pedicure Chairs

TO CELEBRATE THEIR NATIONAL AWARD

‘CLARINS GOLD SALON WINNER’ *

20% off

Beauty Rooms are offering any one beauty treatment throughout September, October and November 2016 when this coupon is presented.

Terms & Conditions: *Valid for one treatment only during the offer period at both Wall Heath and Penn salons, one coupon per person, no photocopies, not to be used in conjunction with any other offers. Appointments subject to availability.

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wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Clarins Gold Salon of the Year 2015. GOL D

ER TN

Exclusive Oﬀer

LON PA R SA

Restore your skin’s perfect balance with a Clarins luxury facial created exclusively for The Beauty Rooms Spa, Penn. Don’t miss out, book this limited edition facial today for just £40. Plus, receive a pampering kit worth £29* at the end of your treatment. Available from September - November 2016. The Beauty Rooms, Wall Heath 7A High Street, Wall Heath West Midlands DY6 OHA Tel: 01384 353 735.

The Beauty Rooms, Penn 246A Warstones Rd, Penn Wolverhampton WV4 4LB Tel: 01902 620 000

Appointments subject to availability. All appointments to be booked and redeemed by 30 November 2016. One gift per customer while stocks last. *Based on ml value of standard size products.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Mind BaBBle:

Fear or Phobia

This month, as we head into autumn, it’s wasp and spider season; common phobia triggers!

Some phobias are simple, and others very complex. When I talk to people about their phobia, it’s often been a problem for many years. They don’t believe they can ever rid themselves of it, and don’t know what to do. When I explain about how phobias can be removed, and generally, extremely quickly, they are shocked!

A Phobia is something that isn’t always understood by those who don’t have one. It’s seen as irrational behavior, and sufferers are frequently told to “pull yourself together”. So, what is a fear, and what is a phobia? All of us have, at one time or another, experienced fear, and generally for good reason! Being anxious before a flight, feeling nervous by a large, growling dog, or standing on a high bridge: all good reasons to be fearful. A phobia is when this feeling becomes a persistent and all-consuming anxiety, with the power to turn into overwhelming panic. Phobia sufferers will plan their life around their phobia; avoiding situations that put them into a panic state, embarrassed by their problem, and hiding away, restricting themselves from living life to the full.

I recently experienced a typical example of life restricting, phobic behavior. Whilst away with friends, one of the girls got extremely anxious when we dined outside. She had a bird phobia. Five minutes later (honestly!) she was able to eat and relax – phobia gone! Next time you call into Jim Gough Ltd on Tettenhall Green, ask Sarah, Colin’s daughter, about her experience!

re-live the experience many times – called desensitization. This may be successful for some, but I can’t believe it is a particularly pleasant experience! Also, a rather long and drawn out process. Psy-Tap uses extremely quick and progressive techniques.

If a phobia is restricting you from living your life to the full, then contact me for a chat about how I can quickly help you to overcome your fear, and live your life with fun, freedom and fearlessness!

There are many obvious causes of phobias; spiders, heights, flying etc, but one of the strangest I heard of, was a women who was phobic about stuffed olives! Now I know to most people this is laughable, but to that lady, it was causing her great pain and was stopping her from leaving her house. Traditional methods of ‘curing’ a phobia include making the client “My aim is to see you as few times as possible and in many cases no more than twice. The faster and more effectively we work, the quicker you begin to move towards a bright future. Allow me to help you ‘get rid of your Gremlins’ and create a life you love.” Sue Wilkinson

Some of the issues I work with: Panic Attacks • Anxiety • Phobias • Obsessions Rejection / Love Pain • Public Speaking Fears • Flying/Driving Fears Self Sabotage • Low Self Esteem • OCD • Depression • Chronic Anger Irrational Guilt • Self Sabotage • General Stress • Fear of Doctors/Dentists

Find out more at mindbabble.co.uk Contact me for a FREE consultation call & see how I can help you.

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Phone: 07980 541271 email: change@mindbabble.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Special offer for all new clients

CUT & FINISH ONLY £20

September offer

HALF PRICE COLOUR

Salon 27 are a unisex salon and have a monthly offer throughout the year, even one for the kids!

(*with a full price cut & finish)

October offer

KIDS CUTS ONLY £5*

(*under 12 years, dry cut only)

Half price colour To book an appointment please call on: every Thursday with selected stylists. Kids cut offer every www.salon27wolverhampton.co.uk Monday 3pm-5pm Find us on Facebook: Salon 27 unisex hairsalon. 65 Wakeley Hill, Penn, Wolverhampton, WV4 5BA

(01902) 836565

Opening times:

Monday 9am – 5pm Wednesday 9am – 8pm Thursday 9am – 8pm Friday 9am – 6pm Saturday 8.30am to 4.30pm Closed Tuesday and Sunday

Transform your body through fitness training. We combine the art of body sculpting with the science of fitness training to transform bodies and boost wellbeing.

At ARTISAN personal training studio you’ll get: •

One-to-one training in a private environment.

•

Programmes tailored precisely for you.

•

Trainers who specialise in ‘body-type training’.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Book a free consultation to discuss how we can help you:

01902 754 126 www.theartisanpt.com • hello@theartisanpt.com

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Tettenhall Weight Loss Centre

Karen Price t: 07974 974 994

e: karen.s.price@btinternet.com facebook.com/CWPKarenPrice

Are you worried about your weight? If you are, Cambridge Weight Plan could be the answer. I operate along with my small Team of excellent Consultants from Tettenhall Weight Loss Centre a private office where together we will work out a plan to suit your lifestyle – helping you achieve the best results at the rate you want. Why not get in touch today. Looking for additional income - why not become a Cambridge Weight Plan Consultant yourself and join my Team? Contact me for more details. Independent Cambridge Weight Plan Multi Award Winning Consultant Highly Commended & Above and Beyond Sales Champion & Business Building

Located within Chris Jewkes Fitness Ltd, Danescourt Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 9BQ

Simply Confident, Simply Natural…

Creating beauty in every smile

NEW CLINIC NOW OPEN

Mrs Clarke had become used to having dentures that were worn out and restricted choices she made. We were able to provide new dentures that were better fitting as well as look good too. We offer a complimentary consultation in order to see how we can best give you the right smile. Life is for living; don’t let your teeth limit you! Dentures by Mr Peter Brookes DipCDT, GDC No: 124429

For an appointment or info brochure call 01902 664634 NEW CLINIC AT: 16-17 Roseville Precinct, Castle Street, Coseley WV14 9EP Also at: Parkdale Dental Clinic, 82 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton WV1 4TF More info at www.simplydentures.net or find us on facebook

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wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

DYSLEXIA AND VISION with lines of black print and causes difficulties with visual processing of the reading content.

Q. Is Visual Stress the same as Dyslexia?

Q. What is dyslexia? A. The word ‘dyslexia’ comes from the Greek and means ‘difficulty with words’. It primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent reading and spelling. It is believed to be one of the most common learning difficulties although many dyslexics are very bright and often have strong visual, creative and problem solving skills.

A.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% of the population and 65% 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 of Visual Stress?

A. Simply explained, Visual Stress (also known as Visual Dyslexia or Irlen Syndrome) is a sensitivity to visual patterns, particularly stripes.

A. Sufferers may report movement and blurring of the text. Letters can appear to reverse or change shape. Halos, colours or patterns, sometimes described as “rivers” or “worms”. Red, sore eyes and headaches are also frequent complaints.

It can occur when a white background appears to interfere

Frustration and low self-esteem can occur in children who are

Q. What is Visual Stress?

underachieving at school due to visual stress; therefore an early diagnosis is essential. The longer it takes to identify and remedy visual stress, the greater the loss of confidence that can result.

Q. Is there a cure for visual stress? A. There is no “cure”, but visual stress can be reduced or eliminated by the use of coloured lenses worn in spectacles. These are prescribed following Colorimetry assessment when the precise tint is selected with the aid of INTUITIVE COLORIMETER, which produces thousands of colour combinations. Degree of improvement differssome individuals reach up to 150% increase in speed of reading, some about 20% due to other non-visual learning difficulties. Very often children move up several reading levels within few weeks. Visual Stress assessments are available at Taylor Biddle Opticians and include SCHOOLVISION assessment and Colorimetry. Please enquire for further information.

Designer Frames from… & many more Your Local Family Opticians Full eye examinations Ocular health checks The latest eye scanning OCT technology Visual Dyslexia Colorimetry assessments Now stocking fabulous and exclusive Oliver Peoples frames

SPECIAL OFFER

FREE second pair of lenses with every purchase of a complete pair of bespoke varifocals (Offer ends 31st October 2016. Terms and conditions apply.)

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

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Chris Jewkes Fitness :

Expert personal training Motivation is essential when it comes to achieving results. “We look at each aspect of our client’s lifestyle to find a plan that will allow them to meet their goals and make it as easy as possible to make positive changes.” If motivation dwindles, the team is always onhand to offer support and encouragement. When it comes to accountability, Chris helps clients keep in mind their reason for wanting to make changes and sets them realistic goals. “We usually only see our clients one hour a week, so it’s crucial that they maintain their activity level and eat properly.” The team have worked with clients of all ages, sizes and fitness levels and offer many tailored programmes.

The highly skilled team at Chris Jewkes Fitness work hard with their clients to attain outstanding weight loss and fitness results, that’s why the Tettenhallbased personal training centre has earned an enviable reputation. Working with clients looking to achieve a whole range of different goals - everything from dropping a dress size, toning up, improving general fitness or even accomplishing an enormous weight loss target - the team’s unique approach ensures the best chances of success. There are ten personal trainers at Chris Jewkes, each offering a different style of training.

“We have weight loss programmes, pre and post pregnancy, rehabilitation, post and pre operation and kids fitness programmes, wedding and bridal programmes as well as a package for those wanting to pass the fitness test which enables them to join the forces.” Personal training clients at Chris Jewkes benefit from full use of the centre’s gym facilities, for members there’s unlimited use of the club - including all classes - and there’s no joining fee or contract. Non members can attend classes on a pay-as-you go basis. There’s no doubt that the team are experts in their field, that’s why they’ve been featured on ITV’s, The Biggest Loser, and made frequent appearances in local media. So, to achieve your weight loss and fitness goals, contact Chris Jewkes today.

As owner, Chris Jewkes explains: “We try hard to match our client with the trainer that will suit them best. We have both male and female trainers who each have a unique approach.” “There are three key points to consider with every client for successful personal training; education, motivation and accountability.” Chris has developed a winning formula for addressing each client’s needs and creating a plan that will enable them to achieve real results. “Personal training isn’t just about the work that’s done each session; it’s about looking at a client’s lifestyle and establishing a bespoke strategy.” And educating clients means giving them good advice on their overall diet and lifestyle. “We’re not interested in quick fixes; we want to enable our clients to make changes for life.” It also means teaching them how to ‘train smart’, allowing them to make the most of exercises that will specifically benefit them. “Training with a personal trainer can be worth three hours work on your own in the gym.” 120

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

PERSONAL TRAINING DELIVERS RESULTS

Chris Jewkes Fitness, home of the ITV’s Biggest Loser, is the Midland’s leading fitness club, with over ten highly qualified specialist personal trainers to match your personality and fitness needs. A limited number of VIP memberships are available, allowing unlimited access to the excellent facilities, including FREE classes. (No joining fee, No 12 month contract) www.chrisjewkesfitness.com • Danescourt Road, Tettenhall, WV6 9BQ • 01902 750 355

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Coming Soon!

A new way to relax your mind and body Tired, stressed, too much to do… sound familiar? With so many demands placed on us nowadays it’s easy to forget to take time out for yourself to recharge and rest. Floating is a great way to re-energise both your mind and body and put you back in control and at your best again. In a world where we rarely stand still these are just some of the things floating can help you achieve:

• Improve your sleep patterns • Reduce your stress and anxiety • Relieve chronic pain such as arthritis or fibromyalgia • Lower your blood pressure • Improve your skin • Boost your immune function • Help support a weight loss programme • Boost your creativity You float for one hour in a pod filled with water and Epsom Salts at body temperature to allow you to fully relax. Our pods have been specially designed for us to allow you a larger float space to enjoy and with a filtration system that drains and sterilises the water after each float. We will be opening soon and you can find us at www.floatworld.co.uk, and if you want to be first to hear about opening offers be sure to sign up to the mailing list. Based in Tettenhall next to the Crown at Wergs with free parking on site why not try it and see what you could gain from floating?

Float World

@floatworlduk

WIN A FREE FLOAT! If you want to win a float voucher we have 2 to give away to readers! It’s free to enter, simply go to our website at

www.floatworld.co.uk click on ‘competition’ enter a few details including where you saw this offer

Good luck! *T&Cs: Entrants must be over 18 and one entrant per person, cannot be exchanged for cash. Winners will be chosen on 31/10/16 and notified via email within one week of the draw date. Entrants’ data will not be shared with 3rd parties and will remain with Float World Ltd.

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wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Indian Festival of Lights Photo courtesy of Matt Cawrey

come together for goodwill, feasting, fireworks and dancing. Everyone is welcome to come and join us in celebrating this fantastic, diverse festival.

This uplifting family friendly event will include performances by: Jai Jashn Dance, Vidya Patel, Desi Nach, Saijal Patel, Jaivant Patel Dance, Bollywood Dream Dance, Gayathri Ganapthy, Nachda Sansaar, Odissi Movement Company and Enter Edem Productions’ Tiranga and Diwali Utsav are supported by the Arts Council England.

Jai Jashn Dance

Following Tiranga, Jaivant Patel Dance presents Diwali Utsav. This takes place at the Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton on Saturday 12th November at 7:30pm. Tickets are £10 (£8 concessions).

To book tickets online visit: www. arena.wlv.ac.uk or call the box office on (01902) 321 321. Diwali is the Indian festival of lights, celebrating the joyous commencement of the New Year. It marks the start of beginnings, the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. This is a globally celebrated festival and a time when family and friends

Jaivant Patel is an independent dance artist, cultural producer, choreographer and creative consultant from Wolverhampton. *Line-up subject to change. Facebook: www.facebook. com/JaivantPatelDance Twitter: @jaijpdc

E x c lu s i v E mobilE pErsonal training by British and European fitness champion Nat Gill I can offer training at your home, at work, in the park or at a luxury gym in Tettenhall. • Tailor made fitness programmes • 1-2-1 training or small group sessions • Regular progress tracking • Bridal packages available • Fully insured • Over 15 years experience

Expertise in female body transformations, building lean muscle, weight loss and nutrition. I am highly qualified having studied sport and exercise at Wolverhampton University. I also have a Level 3 Personal Training Diploma and a Diploma in Diet and Nutrition.

For further details please call Nat at NG Personal Training on 07734 448338 or email: nattgill@hotmail.com

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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t r ea t H a r r y ’ s m u m t o a m a k eoveR Determined to get Harry under the care of Dr Park - who pioneered Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) surgery - at the St Louis Hospital, Missouri, they started the Harry Will Walk campaign. “Liz sent us a letter explaining her son’s condition and her plans to take Harry for surgery in America. It was a really lovely letter and it certainly struck a chord with us,” says Royston. “It was obvious that Liz had been through a lot and we really wanted to give her a treat.” So, Royston and Nick decided to offer Liz a complimentary hair makeover. “As a young mum with two children, who’s been through so much, we thought it was important for Liz to have a bit of ‘me time’.” Nick & Liz before

When Royston and Nick received a letter from Liz Morgan asking for support in raising £80,000 to enable her five year old son, Harry, to have a life changing operation, they were eager to help.

Royston Blythe do a lot of good work supporting many local charities and frequently give away vouchers to help good causes in the local area, even though they’re inundated with requests. “We always try to help and support our clients who are going through

difficult times or who are looking to raise money for a good cause.” Although Liz had never visited the salon before, Royston and Nick still wanted to give her a pick-me-up, and Liz was delighted by their kind gesture. “When Royston Blythe contacted me and offered me a free hair makeover, I was overwhelmed by their kindness and generosity. As a mum of twins you never get time for yourself, especially when you have a child who has extra needs,” explains Liz. And making time for some pampering was just what Liz needed: “Juggling daily life with physio, appointments and fundraising in between can get crazy sometimes.” Liz’s hair was cut and styled by Nick and coloured by Lisa, one of the salon’s top colourists. “I had a lovely day at the salon, everyone was so nice and they really spoilt me.” As we go to print Harry is set to have his operation mid September and Liz has raised 62 per cent of her target amount. “Everyone has been so kind and generous and I really can’t thank them enough,” adds Liz. To make a donation visit Justgiving.com/harrywillwalk or text HPMS80 and the amount to 70070. Check out the facebook page, Harry Will Walk.

Diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy Spastic Diplegia when he was just 16 months old, Harry is unable to stand or walk independently as a result of the condition that has affected his body from the waist down. With no treatment available on the NHS, Liz, and her husband Simon - who live in Codsall - sort other options and discovered that surgery was available in America but they’d need to raise a total of £80,000 to pay for Harry’s treatment. 124

Nick & Liz after

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Looking for a new dental experience? An Independent Dental Practice We are a private dental practice that’s big on family values and fiercely proud to be part of the Jon Pugh Dental marque. Our dentistry is both creative and innovative and because of our diverse special interests we can ensure all of our treatments stay in-house. While many practices refer out for complex root fillings, orthodontics, aesthetic and implant procedures, with Parkside Dental it all stays within our team. It’s simply the best way for us to look after all of your dental needs.

We’re about permanence and seeing the same dentist We want to get to know you and your family We understand children and teenagers Our orthodontic service is hugely popular We offer complimentary first consultations We do implants and aesthetic dentistry We remake smiles and redefine lives We are wheelchair friendly And we’ll give you all the time you need Find out what makes us so popular – call us or just drop in to discuss our affordable treatment schemes.

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CHIROPODY & PODIATRY CLINICS

HCPC/STATE REGISTERED

Tom Casey BSc (Hons), MCHS, SRCH Margaret Kennedy BSc (Hons), MCHS, SRCH Ian Banyard Chartered Physiotherapist MCSP, MMACP, MAACP, MSc Physiotherapy Clinic now available please call 01902 833426

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

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

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

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Tom’s tip:

Heel Pain? Symptoms include a dull ache which is felt most of the time with episodes of a sharp pain in the centre of the heel or on the inside margin of the heel.

Often the pain is worse on first rising in the morning and after rest and is aggravated by prolonged weight bearing & thin soled shoes.

Causes of heel pain • Biomechanical problems (walking abnormalities) are a major cause of plantar fasciitis.

Heel pain is also known as ‘policeman’s heel’.

• Tight plantar fascia (this is often caused by tight calf muscles).

The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis which is commonly referred to as a heel spur. The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue which runs along the bottom surface of the foot, from the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which the plantar fascia is inflamed. This condition can be very painful and cause considerable amount of suffering.

• Excessive flattening of the arch on weight bearing. • Excessive pronation (rolling in of the foot too much) • Obesity is a major cause of plantar fasciitis. Which is why this condition is common in middle aged and over weight adults. • A sudden increase in weight, such as pregnancy can also lead to plantar fasciitis.

WOLVERHAMPTON HIP

• A sudden increase in walking or a sporting activity can also be a contributing factor. • Standing for long periods at work. There are several conditions which may cause pain under the heel. Osteo and rheumatoid arthritis, fractured heel bone, bursitis, neuritis, oedema, circulatory issues, poly and fibromyalgia are but a few.

Treatment options for heel pain Orthotics (insoles)- One of the most effective treatment options. This comes with Stretching exercises for plantar fascia and calf muscles. NSAIDs (Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) may also be prescribed by your chiropodist/podiatrist or doctor. Plantar Fascia night splints, Steroid/local anaesthetic injection and surgery are further treatment options.

Thomas Casey Chiropodist/Podiatrist HCPC registered

& KNEE CLINIC

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

MR DAVID SIMPSON CONSULTANT ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON

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

To book an appointment or for further details please contact: The Wolverhampton Hip and Knee Clinic, Nuffield Health Hospital, Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 8LE Tel: 01902 754177 ext. 2391, 01902 793225 or visit: www.wolverhamptonhipandkneeclinic.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

127

CASH PLAN CEO

appointed a director of trade body

Kevin Rogers (Paycare)

The CEO of a Wolverhampton-based health cash plan provider is celebrating after being appointed to the Board of Directors of a national financial organisation. Kevin Rogers, CEO at Paycare, has been named the latest member of the Board at the Association of Financial Mutuals – the trade body which represents mutual insurers, friendly societies and other financial mutual organisations across the country.

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explained Kevin. “I’m currently on the Board of a number of other organisations complimentary to our health cash plan industry, and I have the exciting opportunity here to share my knowledge and expertise with the Association of Financial Mutuals and their members, in addition to learning more about the methods they use within their own organisations and ways in which we can work together for the benefit of our policyholders and clients.”

Kevin has agreed a renewable one year term at the Association of Financial Mutuals and will take the responsibility for exploring ways in which member organisations can work together to ensure best practice across the sector and the delivery of the highest quality service to its clients UK-wide.

A qualified accountant and Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, Kevin joined Paycare as Operations Director in 2009 and was appointed CEO in 2013. Over the past seven years, Kevin has drawn upon his vast experience across the industry to implement process improvement strategies to help develop Paycare further and to ensure its team continues to deliver the highest level of service to its policyholders.

“I’m thrilled to have been appointed to the highly-experienced and diverse Board of Directors,”

“I’m very much looking forward to undertaking this role over the next three years and in working and

learning more about its current members, the opportunities and the challenges they face, and how we can work together even more effectively,” Kevin concluded. Martin Shaw, Chief Executive of the Association of Financial Mutuals, commented: “The AFM Board and I very much welcome Kevin’s appointment to the Board. Healthcare is an important and growing part of our sector, so it will be very valuable to have Kevin’s insight into that, as well as his wider contribution to sharing best practice across our membership.” A well-respected and dedicated not-for-profit health cash plan provider, Paycare has helped individuals, families and businesses across the Black Country and Wolverhampton protect themselves against everyday healthcare costs and bills for over 140 years.

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Would you like to reclaim the money you spend on everyday health care?

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Cover starts from as little as £6.25 per month with your first premium FREE! Easy Healthcare Benefits Plans to Recover the Cost of Healthcare A Paycare plan makes healthcare cost recovery individual plans and corporate plans let you reclaim 100% of the money spent on healthcare such as dental, optical, chiropody and many more (up to an annual limit) for a simple monthly payment.

Under 25s Paycare Go is a healthcare benefits plan designed specifically for young adults aged 18 to 24. Whether at home, away at college, or just enjoying independent living for the first time healthcare is easy to overlook.

From £5.00 per month Call 01902 371 000

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Refunds are prompt, usually within 48 hours of receipt, directly into your bank or building society account - so you are never left out of pocket for long.

Paycare direct is aimed at individuals aged between 18 & 64. No medical is required to join. With the choice of four premium levels you can choose just how much cost protection you would like to receive.

Need help? Mon to Fri 8.30 to 4.30pm or email us.

Tel: 01902 371 000 enquiries@paycare.org

From £6.25 per month Call 01902 371 000

Over 64s Paycare Gold is aimed specifically at the over 64s. There are extra benefits where seniors have an increased need: for things like hearing aids and home care assessment and support.

From £21.00 per month Call 01902 371 000

Families Aimed specifically at Parents and their children, this comprehensive policy ensures that your whole family can receive necessary medical care, without worrying about making tough decisions as claims are generally settled within 48 hours.

From £30.00 per month Call 01902 371 000

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

www.paycare.org 129

Prevent family feuds

with advance planning Impending changes in the laws around inheritance tax should be the trigger for people to get their affairs in order and prevent potential family feuds. Margaret Rowe, a Partner with award-winning law firm FBC Manby Bowdler, said only 64 per cent of people aged over 55 have made their final wishes clear in a will and a staggering 73 per cent of 16 to 54-year-olds don’t have one. And as Margaret explains, the death of a loved one and dividing up their estate can cause serious family fallouts, so it’s best to stipulate your wishes clearly before you die. “One in five deaths allegedly sparks a family row with many people starting to argue over the will before the person has even died! Arguments can be triggered by anything from what music to play at the funeral to what to do with an inherited property. “The one way to prevent family disputes is to make a will, clearly stating what you would like to happen at your funeral and with your estate. This is more important than ever due to the changes that the inheritance tax system will be facing in the coming years.” From April 6 next year, a ‘family home allowance’, eventually worth £175,000 per person,

will be added to the existing £325,000 tax-free threshold. This will be worth £100,000 in 2017-18, £125,000 in 201819, £150,000 in 2019-20, and £175,000 in 2020-21. It means people can pass on assets worth up to £500,000, including a family home, without paying any inheritance tax. For married couples and civil partners, that would give a total of £1million to pass on. Margaret said: “To qualify, you must own a property on or after April 2016 and it must be left to someone who is closely inherited, such as a child or grandchild.

Margaret Rowe

130

Margaret is a Partner in the Wills, Probate and Lifetime Planning team at FBC Manby Bowdler and specialises in all aspects of wills, probate work and elderly client matters, including estate planning and succession. She is also a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and a member of Solicitors For the Elderly (SFE). If you’d like to know more, you can contact Margaret on 01952 208433 or by email at M.Rowe@fbcmb.co.uk

“With increasing numbers of families in existence including spouses and civil partners, former partners, stepchildren, and half siblings, and changes to the law, it is crucial to get legal advice to make sure your wishes are carried out.” wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Services for Individuals

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Legal advice and service of the highest quality... Our expert advisors focus on delivering bespoke legal solutions to meet your business and personal legal needs. To discuss your situation or make an appointment to meet with one of our specialist lawyers, contact us on 01902 578000.

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Wolverhampton WV2 4BZ

A n i m a l M a gi c a t

S h i p ley

The Shipley Campus of North Shropshire College is situated on Bridgnorth Road (next to Gardenlands). The Campus has a fantastic Animal Care Facility and offers students courses in Animal Management at Level 2 and 3.

The dedicated centre is within the Campus and its surrounding grounds and houses over 50 species of animal. The unit houses ponies, alpacas, goats, chickens, rabbits, guinea pigs and exotics such as snakes and tarantulas, to name but a few.

Flower Arranging and Bridge for Beginners.

There is an Open Evening on Saturday 8th October 10am-2pm so come and meet the tutors and tour the facilities. To find out more or to apply now, visit the website atwww.nsc.ac.uk You can also arrange a tour by calling 01902 709840 or email shipley@nsc.ac.uk

On a part-time basis the Campus offers Dog Grooming, Seasonal www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

OCTOBER OPEN EVENT AT SHIPLEY CAMPUS NEXT TO GARDENLANDS, BRIDGNORTH RD

Saturday 8th October 10am-2pm Study Animal Care full-time

Part-time courses available: Bridge, Dog Grooming, Floristry, IT and Rural Skills (Safe Use of Pesticides, Transporting Animals by Road Short Journey and Safe Use of Veterinary Medicine)

Apply now at www.nsc.ac.uk

Shape Your Future at NSC!

01902 709840 WWW.NSC.AC.UK 131

Thinking of Adopting a Child? Adoption is a private family law application and can include:

In addition a step parent can obtain Parental Responsibility for a step child by way of order or agreement.

• a step parent adoption

It’s important to consider all of the options at the outset as they all have different legal connotations. Acquiring independent legal advice in the beginning can ensure pitfalls are avoided and procedures are clearly followed and delays avoided.

• a family/friend/connected person (including a foster carer) adoption where there is no parent to provide long term care In order to make an adoption application you need to be over 21 years and resident in the UK for a minimum of 12 months, applications can be made on a sole or joint basis. There are alternatives to adoption; family law orders are an option if you are considering providing a long term home to a child in your family or friend’s network, such as a Child Arrangement Order (formerly residence or custody orders) or a Special Guardianship Order.

Specialist help is available here at Sharratts to guide you through the law and assessment processes in relation to any orders, agreements or court applications in respect of children. We can also advice on overseas adoptions. We offer a 30 minute free telephone advice appointment to assess your case and provide a quotation tailored to your individual need. In some limited circumstances legal aid is still available to meet your legal fees, in certain circumstances the local authority may fund your legal fees, and in all other cases we offer fixed fee tailored packages. If you would like to have an informal chat about adoption then do get in touch with us on 01902 759 500. Alternatively please feel free to pop in to our offices which are located at 81 Wergs Road, Tettenhall (next to the Crown Pub).

Where family means everything Offering a comprehensive service in all areas of family law. Our highly skilled solicitors are friendly and approachable, providing sound and practical advice while being emotionally sensitive to your situation.

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Children Matters Pre Nuptial/Cohabitee Agreements Care Proceedings Separation/Divorce/Finances Child Abduction Cohabitee/Civil Partner Claims Adoption/Surrogacy Injunctions

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81 Wergs Rd, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9BP (free parking onsite) ● 01902 759500 85 Darlington Street, Wolverhampton WV1 4EX ● 0345 565 2070 info@sharratts.com www.sharratts.com

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wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lose your family

w e a lt h Let us steer you in the right direction and protect your estate from HMRC Midland Independent Financial Services Limited will carry out a full review of any potential liability to Inheritance Tax and will produce a detailed report indicating the options available in order to alleviate this problem.

l free initia t ce ax inheritan r readers review fo n rhampto of wolve gazine. west ma

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

Anyone wishing to benefit from this should call Midland Independent on 01543 468877 and ask for Gerry Knowles who will arrange a meeting with one of our fully qualified advisers. Please quote Ref IHT/WW.

Midland Independent Financial Services Ltd, 153 Avon Road, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 1LF

Telephone 01543 468877 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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

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Photographs courtesy of Sam Russell Media

M o d e r n g oa l s

for historic football club business networking group along with their own Events and Marketing Team, Concero Technology Services know they can not only achieve the original aspirations of the club but can also set and hit some big goals for the future.

Concero F.C.

Founded in 1981, The Chestnut Tree Football Club (CTFC) was kick-started as a pub football team with the help of Robert Brettell, who not only took on the roles of chairman, secretary, treasurer and even manager for a short time, but was also instrumental in ensuring that the club got funding for kit and equipment and CTFC successfully joining the Wolverhampton and District Sunday League, Division 8 in the 1982/1983 season. Robert and his successors have always shared the opinion that local sports teams like this have a big impact on bringing communities together, by encouraging regular exercise and having the ability to raise funds for charities close to the hearts of the team and supporters. Unfortunately, as more and more pubs vanish from the landscape or change their ethos, it has become increasingly difficult for teams to find the resources required to run a successful club and provide the ideals which these teams originally set out to achieve. However, Concero Technology Services, who provide IT services and support to schools and businesses throughout the West Midlands have chosen to re-boot the club by investing in new equipment, re-branding as 134

Concero FC and coordinating their first charity event with team officials for Compton Hospice and Breast Cancer UK. In addition to this, the management team has been restructured with Matt Higgs as the manager, David Fisher as chairman and Chris Fisher instated as the club’s secretary. A new football ground has also been selected at Joeys Lane, Bilbrook, which has been helped by the Twentyman Playing Fields Association. Concero Technology Services chose to invest in the club due to shared views and interests with the original club founders and the current club management team, largely due to their involvement with the education market and strong belief in corporate social responsibility. By utilising their wide range of resources, relationship with The Black Country Chamber of Commerce, the BNI Wulfrun

Concero Director, James Morris

This has been demonstrated already where their first successful charity event, despite the weather, raised £960 for Compton Hospice and Breast Cancer UK with the help of friends, family, colleagues, Smestow School and local companies – Ego Hair Salon, Bouncing High, Feast Foods, DJ Adam, The Studio, RJ Hipkiss Butchers, The Firs Inn, and international company, Misco. So, after enjoying a magnificent cup final victory at the end of the 2015/16 season which landed them the B.P. Roberts Trophy and a place in Division 1 of the Wolverhampton and District Sunday League, and securing an additional sponsor - R J Hipkiss butchers, a local based company in Compton, Concero FC wants to further their success into the future while continuing their charitable work and bringing the community together. If you are interested in joining or sponsoring the re-invented club, you can get in touch with Concero FC using the contact details below. W: www.concero.football E: enquiries@concero.football T: http://twitter.com/ConceroFC F: www.facebook.com/ConceroFC

Concero Director, Brad Clegg

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

We are a trusted and established team of like minded individuals, educational specialists, strategic integrators, champions of Information Technology - driven by our core values which instinctively guide us. We deliver, without exception, proven, non-prescriptive, reliable technology products and services, with an uncompromising can-do attitude that knows no bounds.

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www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

135

Education

and Schooling

by David Williams – Headmaster of Tettenhall College In the educational world we are also understandably motivated by making schools exciting and stimulating places to learn with fast-paced lessons designed to ensure that no pupil will ever be bored or switch off. These are the lessons praised by inspection teams across the land as well as schools who provide a rich and varied programme of extracurricular activities ensuring that all lunchtimes and after-school sessions provide additional enrichment for our pupils. When choosing GCSE options pupils dismiss subjects as “boring” without perhaps pausing to think that most worthwhile endeavours in life require a degree of graft, repetition and tedium in order to gain success.

On return to school in September a common feeling expressed to me by parents is one of relief as long days and weeks no longer need to be filled as teachers and schools take over providing a sense of structure and purpose. The enemy which rears its head in the summer holidays is of course boredom as children complain about having nothing to do where “what are we doing today?” often means “what have you organised for us today?” and invariably involve some form of expenditure. In the era of organised activities, sleepovers and play dates entertaining oneself can pose a challenge. As adults we often respond with disbelief when children say they have nothing to do despite possessing enough toys to open a shop. However there is a view that you should think twice before rescuing your child from boredom as minutes (or hours) of boredom may be just what’s needed to awaken their dormant powers of creativity. 136

It is seen as a mark of progress that today’s society can be measured by how far we have come in eradicating boredom. Boredom is somehow equated with laziness or making the wrong choices. What’s the point of doing nothing or having nothing to do? Those of us of a certain age who remember the days before seven day a week trading, multiple TV channels and the internet and regale our children of stories of true boredom spent trying to entertain ourselves on never-ending rainy Sunday afternoons. As an adult we feel pleased that we now truly struggle to remember the last time we were bored as life is a swirl of activity and “purpose” with the opposite problem of never having enough time. Recent technological developments have contributed to the cause and mean that we now no longer need to be bored when travelling on a train or standing at a queue in the supermarket as our smart phones mean we can stay connected and sufficiently distracted. If there is nothing on TV then choose from an endless supply of films or programmes to be streamed or downloaded.

We therefore need to stop and embrace boredom as a necessity or even a luxury, something to prize and protect in a culture obsessed with business. This is reinforced by the idea that constant distraction outside of work could harm one’s ability to focus. Much in the same way that the impressive Olympians we have seen this summer must take care of their bodies outside of their training sessions (which can also be “boring”), one will struggle to achieve meaningful levels of concentration if you spend the rest of your time fleeing the slightest hint of boredom. When we realise that studying well requires mental fitness and that to perform at our peak our minds must be in fine mental shape. Instead of thinking of empty time as something to be avoided, we should consider it as space for children to find out what they like and who they are. When forced to do so they will be creative in their play, maybe pick up that neglected book or just spend some time thinking. This approach will then mean that us adults will not only save a bit of money but can perhaps free up some time for ourselves where we can learn how to be bored again! You can now follow David on Twitter @tettcoll_head

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

S E I Z E

T H E

Preparatory School Open Morning Fri 7th Oct 9am - 12pm

O P P O R T U N I T I E S Senior School Open Morning Sat 8th Oct 10am - 1pm

Independent day and boarding school for pupils 2-18 years old. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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A very special place: Newbridge Preparatory School Newbridge Preparatory School, for girls aged two to eleven years old and boys aged two to seven years old, is a very special place. Our purpose as a modern preparatory school is to offer an excellent standard of education for our pupils, balancing traditional values with high quality teaching and learning. As we are not linked to a senior school, we pride ourselves on being the only truly independent ‘Prep’ school in the City of Wolverhampton. We are a small, personal school where everyone knows everyone else – just like a family. We foster an environment in which children can grow in confidence, learning honesty, consideration, loyalty and openness.

Small school - where quality of education matters Our small school has a well justified reputation as a friendly, family school. Excellent relationships between children and staff lie at the heart of the school’s success and there are shared expectations for striving towards academic excellence, whilst ensuring that all children are nurtured to be their very best as individuals, whatever their varied strengths. Close relationships are a significant characteristic of life at Newbridge. Children and parents alike feel secure when they know they are part of a small community where everyone knows each other. With small, average class sizes of

eighteen and one form entry, each child is treated as an individual, and valued both for who they are and who they could become.

Primary school specialists with exceptional results As the only stand-alone independent preparatory school in Wolverhampton, we are dedicated to focussing only on children aged two-eleven years. Our primary aged children are at the heart of all that we do, providing an exceptional start in life. Every child is different and unique and it is at this young age that excellent foundations are laid, and a sense of aspiration created. In our primary school environment, children grow quickly in confidence and their individual characters and skills develop, giving time before decisions about the next stage of their education are taken.

Creating a choice at 11+ Invest now and you will have far more options when your daughter is eleven. In and around 138

Wolverhampton, we are fortunate to have diversity of choice across both state and independent sectors for senior schools. Newbridge Preparatory School has well-established links with many of these schools, and we are experienced in methods of transfer and entry into them. Our experience and expertise enable us to match our knowledge of these senior schools to the girls we teach and nurture. We work closely with parents to identify the next school in which each individual child will truly flourish – we will help and support you, every step of the way, to find the right senior school for your daughter at the right time in her development.

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

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Over-indulged this summer? Let us help you get back on track!

South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres are here to get you back on track with a great range of facilities on offer for all ages and abilities, which are sure to help you shed a few pounds and tone up. The leisure centres are open 7 days a week and welcome everyone including non-members. You can simply pay as you go which allows you to use us as little or as often as you like. However if you are thinking of trying to get fitter and healthier and come fairly regularly, a membership may be your cheapest option! The leisure centres offer affordable and flexible membership packages to suit everyone’s needs and budgets, with little commitment. We have tailored our packages to try and meet our customer’s needs with a huge variety of options to think about.

• Discounts for students and apprentices • Discounts for people in receipt of benefits • Corporate packages and discounts • ‘Forward to Health’ scheme offering discounts for people with medical conditions • Personal Trainers available on request For more information contact your local south Staffordshire leisure centre to discuss what packages will best suit your needs and budget, or even pop in and have a look around!

October School Holiday Camp Coming Soon South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres offer school holiday activity camps throughout every holiday. The camps are run by one of the UKs leading childcare providers, ’Fit for Sport’. •

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wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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Carvers

Builders’ Village now booming Amazingly, no-one was hurt. Thousands of pounds of stock and offices went up in flames and Managing Director Mr Carver was left surveying the scorched site. It was a defining time. Having joined the family business in 1983, Mr Carver soon changed the fortunes of the loss-making concern. He had worked in London for Travis Perkins and formerly Sandwell Perkins and experienced a “different way of management and marketing.” “At that particular time in London there was a high focus on customer service and I brought it here [Carvers]. “I started by incentivising the sales people and we saw an increase in turnover year on year. I’d spent a long time getting it right and had put together a good team,” he says. But… then came the fire. It was so severe it smoldered for days and demolition work took six weeks before a temporary warehouse could be erected. Mr Carver negotiated with the insurers that staff wages would be protected during the rebuild.

Seen with one of the bathroom displays is Henry Carver, who resurrected the family business

by John Nash

Out of the embers – ‘team effort’ paves bright new future If authenticity is a leadership trait, Henry Carver must have it in spades. The visionary behind the Carvers Builders’ Village in Wolverhampton, he and his management team has quite literally raised the family business from the ashes, embracing 142

diversity and displaying strengths in previous areas of weakness. The business runs through his veins and the pride in what his staff have achieved through harrowing times is transparently obvious. On February 29th, 2012 the skies over the city turned black, trains stopped and roads were closed as one of the biggest blazes Wolverhampton had ever seen took hold. It was a catastrophic event for Carvers – the result of a faulty boiler installation.

With a £10m insurance settlement on the cards, he could have pocketed a fortune and walked away. “But I’d grown up with these people,” he recalls, “and by the time of the fire I’d got a great team of key people. “It’s a funny thing… if you inherit something there are issues of custodianship and moral obligation. Besides, the key staff were excellent (many had become friends) and I had a team that could rebuild the company and wanted to succeed,” he says. Responding to the doom-mongers of that time who maintained it could never be done and that he should quit, Mr Carver said there was “no question” of ever giving up.

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

With a fresh commercial appetite combined with a driving obligation to re-employ his workforce, he set about rebuilding bigger and better.

fumes from the lorries, so we built a warehouse in two halves where the roof didn’t meet in the centre and the problem was solved,” he says.

His visionary management – the drive-thru for builders and allowing other trade businesses to operate franchises in the warehouse in areas where Carvers were weak – have helped yield a prolific increase in revenue.

The service is hugely efficient and allows people to drive right up to the shelves and get their vehicles loaded by Carvers’ staff.

The Carvers turnover in this financial year will top £32m – “a team effort,” he is quick to point out. “We’d never done well with paints, so why not let someone like Dixons come here and have space and they have all that specialist knowledge too, the same is true about Tile Choice and Raytons Electrical. “We also introduced a café near to the main entrance and it gets really busy for breakfasts – they do a good breakfast here and the customers love it,” he adds.

“Anything you can’t put under your arms like timbers, plasterboard and cement is available and with bar coding by the time they get to the other end to pay the invoices are ready,” Henry adds. When it opened it was championed as the UK’s first proper drive-thru warehouse. Has it been a success? One of the sales counter staff interjects: “The builders love it. It’s so much quicker than before.” Adds Mr Carver: “That’s what builders want. To get in and out quickly.”

Within days of the fire Mr Carver was putting together plans for a builders’ village on the charred ground in Little’s Lane. A £6.0m development began in 2013 and after 21 months Carvers held a grand reopening.

For those looking for kitchens and bathrooms, there are generous display areas with options on budget and top-end elegance. There’s also a rivals’ kitchen product station comparing cabinets, hinges and drawers.

“We’d looked around at the drivethru concept, but there was always something not quite right so we developed our own. They said it couldn’t be done because of the

“We want to create a place where a builder can come and get everything they require. If they want basic, we have it stocked, but if they desire top-end product, we have that too.”

Walking through the ‘village’ Mr Carver is clearly proud of what has been accomplished. Nearly 200 people are employed there. “Our important staff are loyal; dedicated and our turnover of these kind of people is very low,” Mr Carver points out. The business was started by Mr Carver’s great, great grandfather in 1896. As for the future? “There’s a lot of pent up demand and I don’t believe Brexit will make much difference. Fundamentally there is a national shortage of housing in the UK and properties will always need maintenance,” he says. A company with a generous social commitment, Mr Carver acknowledges Wolverhampton is a deprived city. “I’m not naïve, the priority is to make a profit every year, but when we’ve done that we try to give something back,” he says. Recently the business pledged £75,000 over three years to The Way youth zone, a purpose-built facility for the city’s young people aged between eight to 19 and up to 25 for those with disabilities. Carvers also sponsors the annual Carver Wolverhampton City Marathon which helps raise tens of thousands of pounds for local charities.

The builders’ drive-thru warehouse

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Richard Bissell, PGA Golf Professional at Patshull Park Golf & Country Club

No Nonsense Golf Tips

How to cure the dreaded ‘Shank’ Probably the most dreaded shot in golf, the shank can cause panic when it happens and normally ends up with the player scared to hit the next shot as they are scared of shanking again. THE CAUSE The shank occurs when the ball is hit by the neck of the iron or hosel, and flies violently to the right. Because the ball goes right, most golfers think that a shank is caused by an open clubface, but it normally comes from and excessively closed clubface at impact. The player swings out to in with the clubface closing hard - both actions push the hosel closer to the ball.

THE CURE SIMPLE DRILL: • Make sure you hold the club firmly, but not too tight - about 5 on a scale of 1 to 10.

• Check your alignment at address so that your feet are parallel to the target line and swing along that line. • Place 2 golf balls approximately 3 inches apart. • Address the ball furthest away from you. • Take aim and swing the club but hit the ball nearest to you. • This is the best drill I know to help fix the dreaded shank... Happy golfing,

Rich

Patshull Park Hotel, Golf & Country Club, Pattingham, Nr Wolverhampton WV6 7HR 144

T: 01902 700100 Golf Shop: 01902 700342 www.patshull-park.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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prices correct at time of going to print 145

Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

Charity Golf Day Wergs Golf Club Ex Wolves player Steve Daly and his wife Lynda organised a charity golf day. It was well supported with 96 golfers making up 24 teams. Former Manchester United goalkeeper Alex Stepney and comedian Sean Percival provided the evening entertainment. In excess of ÂŁ6,000 was raised for the chosen charities ,Maureen Parkes Breast Cancer fund, Neil Taylor for Birmingham Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital and young Harry Morgan Tree of Hope Foundation. 146

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

Ade Edwards, Steve Terry, Peter Baker, Malcolm Bartlett. Steve Daley, Alex Stepney (Guest Speaker). Tim Brookes, Phil Nicholls. Roger Campbell, David Grainger. Charity Display. Phil Nicholls, Dave Jones, Ann Jones, Phil Parkes. Lee Judson, James Wilkes, Justin Massey, Rob May. Dean Millington, Terry Millington. Steve Galloway, Pete Taylor, Neil Taylor, Graham Marsh, Jason Guy, Neil Farmer. Warren Cole, Tim Dinsdale, David Wherton, Richard Green. Andy Jenkins, Phil Smith, Steve Critchley, Steve Murphy. Dave Walker, James Busby. Steve Broadley, Tim Brookes, Steve Banks, Alan Bergwin, Dave Cooke, Kevin Mcnish, Gavin Ashford. Chris Walker, Alex Stepney (Guest Speaker), Neil Watkins. Ian Cooke, Steve Saul. wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Social Scene

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Social Scene

Birchfield School Albrighton

4. 5. 6. 7.

The annual Birchfield Summer Ball was held at Birchfield School on Saturday 16th July.

8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.

With over 200 guests this year’s circus theme proved a huge success! Featuring entertainment from Leo Locos Circus, delicious food from Pear Tree Farm Caterers and live music from Birmingham party band The Suits. The evening raised over £9,000 towards school projects. 1. Alex Heath, Torie Collinge, Clare Norton, Jade Colton, Craig Abrams, Vicky Flavell, Angelica Parkhouse, Lucinda England. 2. Leo’s Loco Circus. 3. Hugh Myott (Headmaster), Kate Myott. 148

14. 15. 16. 17.

Clare Norton, Gary Norton. Lavinia Thompson, Alex Thompson. Penny Shevyn, Emma Grant-King, Rebecca Petty. Dawn Kidd, Darren Kidd, Rebecca Wood, Andrew Wood. Glyn Harvey, Sue Evans. Laura Fleming, William Hodgkiss. Jake Sedgemore, Layla Sedgemore. Scott Bernard, Emma Timson. Georgina Falagan, Vicky Flavell, Stephanie Cook. Peter Hommers, Sarah Hommers, Neel Barchha, Vicki Barchha. Andy Fleming, Rachel Fleming, Ann Hodgkiss, Paul Hodgkiss. Andrew Winning, Lesley Winning, Steve Higgins, Carole Pate. Nick Sharratt, Charlotte Willies, Alex Harvey, Brett Bernard. Chris Fitton, Shaun Western, Warren Drumm.

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Social Scene 8

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

Park Hall Hotel Wolverhampton Over 300 guests attended a charity ball on Friday 9th September to raise funds for a special local girl, Elle-Mae Davidson from Kingswinford. A grand total of £15,000 was raised on the evening bringing the total now raised to £90,000 towards the £100,000 which is needed for Elle-Mae to hopefully have brain stem treatment. It was a fantastic evening with a 3 course meal, auction and entertainment provided by party band ‘Kick Up The 80’s and Saxophonist Samantha Jayne. 1. (Back) Amira-Mai Davidson, Leah Davisdon, Phil Davidson, Brad Davidson (Front) Elle-Mae Davidson 2. Emma Shanne, Michael Shotton 150

7 3. Thomas Hinchliffe, Olivia Jennings 4. Helen Powell, Anne Atkins 5. Jess Needham (Singer), Katie Evans (Singer) 6. Rose Neal, Liz Simmonds, Sophie Neal 7. Jake Woodley, Lorraine Woodley, Dan Watterson, Leanne Woodley 8. Narinder Johal, Ninder Johal 9. Louise Evans, Leah Davidson, Louise Faux 10. Adam Kirby, Chris Renton, Nick Robertson 11. Mary Lochhead, Janis Potts, Roger Potts 12. Abigail Blower, Elizabeth Philpott, Olivia Lucas, Emily Mcfarlane, Zoe Lloyd 13. Claire Jones, Sadja Cross, Tanya Dodds, Reg Cattigan 14. Katrina Fraser, Beth Allsopp, Simran Soomal 15. Helen Collins, Louise Beattie, Lucy Sullivan, Michelle Thomson, Keeley Jaworski wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Social Scene

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

Sir Jack’s Restaurant Molineux Three Pines Building Company recently hosted a ‘Gourmet Evening’ at Wolverhampton’s Molineux Stadium to mark the occasion of the retirement of one of its longest serving employees, Sue Capewell. Office staff and their partners enjoyed an evening of good food, fine wine and excellent camaraderie which is always present when the ‘Three Pines team’ get together. This, coupled with the warm hospitality shown by Fidel and the staff in Sir Jack’s restaurant, made the evening an undisputed success. 152

6 1. Josh Walker, Sophie Withington, Isabel Hill, Sam Wells. 2. Wally Nugent, Sue Nugent. 3. Graham Haughton, Sian Haughton, Annabelle Brown, Chris Jukes. 4. Lee Crumpton, Laura Crumpton. 5. Adrian Goodaker, Gemma Pithers. 6. Alan Bradshaw, Alan Philpott, Louise Bradshaw, Janet Philpott. 7. Pam Wootton, David Hill. 8. Dave Capewell, Sue Capewell. 9. Alan Southall. 10. Alan Bradshaw, Sue Capewell, Louise Bradshaw. 11. Smile Everyone. 12. Sue Capewell (surprise!). wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Social Scene

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wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Winter tyres what you need to know 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.

latest Winter tyre, the UltraGrip Performance Gen-1 is an exceptional tyre and has proved this by winning first place in the Auto Express winter tyre test. The Goodyear tyre performed particularly well in Snow traction, Circle and Handling as well as Curved Aquaplaning, The Dunlop Winter Sport 5 is the newest addition to the Dunlop range and has proved to be another outstanding winter tyre by winning second place in the Auto Express winter tyre test. The Dunlop tyre was described as particularly strong in Snow Handling, Curved Aquaplaning, and Wet Braking. It even took first place in the Rolling Resistance test. For more information on winter tyres please contact HiQ Wolverhampton on 01902 420234.

For these reasons, winter tyres are highly recommended for use in temperatures below 7°C, which in the UK is around 150 days of the year. Advantages of using Winter Tyres: • Shorter stopping distances – with braking distance significantly reduced in snow, ice and wet conditions • Improved performance and safety – more control in winter conditions due to innovative winter tyre technology • Resistance to aquaplaning – The specific tread pattern design of winter tyres can disperse more water which reduces the amount of water between the road and your tyres. • Increased tyre life Goodyear’s Winter tyre range has been developed specifically with your safety in mind. Goodyear’s

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Star Tech

By Rob Taylor

As I return from my local cinema, lost in awe and wonder at how the latest entry into the Star Trek canon compares to its illustrious forebears, I can’t help but draw comparisons to the car which I am driving home in: the new MercedesBenz E-Class. Or perhaps I should rephrase: the car that is near-enough capable of driving me home and is itself tantamount to the Starship Enterprise: a living, breathing sci-fi scion of the Benz Family, now in its tenth generation. The E-Class boasts, among myriad other features, Drive Pilot; which uses a camera and radar sensors to autonomously control acceleration, braking and even stopping without any input from the driver. There’s also Evasive Steering Assist, Pre-Safe Impulse Side, Remote Parking and Active Lane-change Assistant, which allows the driver to change lane as if by magic. Magic is the word; counterintuitive and scary are two others. The new E-Class also extends Merc’s ‘car-to-X communication’ 156

smartphone and Cloud-based infrastructure, relaying info and warnings from further up the road, so it can predict the future too. Now we’re going seriously sci-fi. In fact, the amount of tech in this car beggars belief; I really do feel as though it ought to be writing its own review – and I’m confident that it could empirically demonstrate that it is superior to just about everything else on the road, save for an S-Class I suppose, but where’s the fun in that? After all it is man who must still – legally – master machine at all times. Prices start at £35,935 for the E 220 d SE, which comes with an all-new four-cylinder 2.0-litre 195 bhp diesel engine that is capable of returning up to 72.4 mpg and 102 g/km of CO2. A 9-speed G-Tronic automatic gearbox is standard and on SE spec there’s most prominently: Garmin Map Pilot navigation system with 8.4-inch display; Parktronic parking sensors with reversing camera and a Park Pilot selfparking system; an autonomous emergency braking system; twozone automatic climate control; leather upholstery with heated front seats; LED headlights and tail-lights; electric folding mirrors and 17inch wheels. There’s also an AMG trim variant available if you prefer bigger wheels and a harder ride.

However, having said that, I’d be amazed if even then this car wouldn’t rank in the Top Ten Comfiest Cars on the market right now. Even when you are going after its promised 0-62 mph time of just 7.3 seconds the E-Class is nothing short of luxurious. And as ever with all premium brands there’s a litany of luxury available in the options list too called – unimaginatively – Premium (£2,795) and Premium Plus (£3,895). I’d recommend the Air Body Control suspension system. In the main though, I’m just too busy soaking up the cool and contemporary cabin to think of such fripperies. With soft-touch plastics, robust switchgear, cutting-edge tech, ambient mood lighting and leather upholstery, Mercedes has unsurprisingly nailed its bread and butter aspirations. The exterior profile is striking and quite handsome also, with its ‘coupe-esque’ lines. The E-Class seems to celebrate the fact that while you can push this lardy leviathan to make it ‘handle’ in a preposterously incongruous eulogy to Top Gear, it would really rather prefer it if you didn’t and did instead just get on with enjoying the ride. I know that’s what I’ll be doing; onwards and into the future.

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

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Suzuki delivers

high fuel economy in What Car? real-world mpg tests a more sporting and dynamic character to the Vitara line up and it was this latest model that really impressed the judges. Commenting on the award, David Motton, Tow Car Editor of Practical Caravan magazine said; “We were thoroughly impressed with the Vitara diesel we tested last year, and this year’s petrol powered Vitara S is light enough to be considered an ultralight tow car. For a car which barely weighs more than 1.2 tonnes, stability at speed was excellent. The Suzuki pulled its trailer to 60mph and well beyond without any waywardness.

Swift attains “True MPG” figure of 51.7mpg The Suzuki Swift has been featured in What Car? magazine’s top 10 most economical small petrol cars on sale in the UK today. What Car? magazine’s week long real-world MPG tests compare official combined fuel economy figures with those achieved when cars are driven by their technicians on the open road. The 1.2-litre Suzuki Swift with manual transmission reached 51.7 as its “True MPG”. What Car? stated: “The Swift offers great value for money, and our MPG tests show it should be reasonably cheap to fuel.”

Dale Wyatt, Sales and Marketing Director at Suzuki GB PLC, explained: “The very encouraging results from the What Car? tests prove the exceptional value for money that the Suzuki model range provides to today’s motorists, and the impressive return on investment that they receive for every gallon of fuel that they purchase.”

VITARA S IS ULTRALIGHT TOW CAR 2016 Suzuki is very pleased to announce that Vitara S has been voted the winner of the Ultralight category at the Tow Car Awards 2016. Suzuki introduced the 1.4-litre Boosterjet model in January which provides

“The S is powered by a turbocharged petrol engine which performs well, pulling the trailer from 30-60mph in 14.4 seconds. Turbocharging helps give more mid-range pull than you get from most petrols, making for an engine that’s surprisingly well suited to towing lightweight trailers and micro-caravans. So, your £20k buys lots of kit, impressive stability and four-wheel drive. “That makes the Vitara a worthy winner of this year’s ‘Best Ultralight Tow Car’ award.” Dale Wyatt, Sales and Marketing Director, Suzuki GB PLC added; “This is another fantastic accolade for us at Suzuki; our compact and lightweight SUV is proving to be really popular on the roads now with around 11,000 sold since launch last year.

Suzuki’s Dualjet technology available on Celerio and Swift positions the fuel injectors very close to the engine inlet valves, which allows for a finer fuel atomisation (or mixture), and in turn, provides a more effective transfer into the powertrain. Internal modifications include the use of a new type of inlet port and combustion chamber with other mechanical parts also refined to reduce frictional losses and facilitate smoother running. Amongst the benefits offered is further improved fuel economy, as well as significantly reduced CO2 emissions. 158

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

NU66REG THE NEW SUZUKI RANGE FROM ONLY

£6999

SUZUKI CELERIO £6,999 OTR

SUZUKI SWIFT £8,999 OTR

SUZUKI JIMNY £12,499 OTR

SUZUKI BALENO £12,999 OTR

SUZUKI S-CROSS £13,999 OTR

SUZUKI VITARA £14,499 OTR

AVAILABLE FROM

● COMPACT 5 DOOR HATCHBACK ● EXTREMELY EFFICIENT 1.0-LITRE PETROL ENGINE ● CLASS LEADING LUGGAGE CAPACITY

AVAILABLE FROM

● SATELLITE NAVIGATION AND AIR-CON AS STANDARD ● DAB DIGITAL RADIO ● GREAT FUEL EFFICIENCY

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● KEYLESS ENTRY ● 7 AIRBAGS ● 5-STAR NCAP RATING

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● ALLGRIP 4-WHEEL DRIVE SYSTEM, EASY TO DRIVE ● 5-STAR NCAP RATING ● AVAILABLE WITH 1.6 PETROL OR 1.6 DIESEL ENGINES

0% APR

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● COMPACT HIGH-FUN 4x4 ● HIGH GROUND CLEARANCE ● SELECTABLE 4-WHEEL DRIVE WITH LOW RATIO TRANSFER

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● ALLGRIP 4-WHEEL DRIVE SYSTEM ● 5-STAR NCAP RATING ● AVAILABLE WITH 1.6 PETROL OR 1.6 DIESEL ENGINES

AVAILABLE WITH NO DEPOSIT

REPRESENTATIVE ON SELECTED MODELS

Request a test drive today; See below for your local dealership

Autosales

Vulcan Road, Bilston, West Midlands WV14 7JW 01902 402233 www.suzuki.co.uk/autosales

Autosales Suzuki Cannock Progress Drive, Bridge Town, Cannock WS11 0JE 01543 431360 www.suzuki.co.uk/autosales

Celerio range mpg (litres/100km) and CO₂ emissions (g/km): Urban 55.3-68.9 (5.3-4.1), Extra Urban 76.3-83.0 (3.7-3.4), Combined 65.7-78.4 (4.3-3.6), CO₂ emissions 99-84 g/km. Swift range mpg (litres/100km) and CO₂ emissions (g/km): Urban 41.5-46.3 (6.8-6.1), Extra urban 57.6-64.2 (4.9-4.4), Combined 50.4-56.5 (5.6-5.0). CO₂ emissions 128-116g/km. Jimny range mpg (litres/100km) and CO₂ emissions (g/km): Urban 31.4-31.7 (9.0-8.9), Extra urban 44.8-47.1 (6.3-6.0), Combined 38.7-39.8 (7.3-7.1). CO₂ emissions 167--162g/km. Baleno range mpg (litres/100km) and CO₂ emissions (g/km): Urban 44.8-60.1 (6.3-4.7), Extra urban 68.8-78.4 (4.1)-(3.6), Combined 57.6-70.6 (4.9-4.0). CO₂ emissions 115-94g/km. S-Cross range mpg (litres/100km) and CO₂ emissions (g/km): Urban 39.7-61.4 (7.1-4.6), Extra urban 55.3-74.3 (5.1-3.8), Combined 47.8-68.9 (5.9-4.1). CO₂ emissions 135-108g/km. Vitara range mpg (litres/100km) and CO₂ emissions (g/km): Urban 42.1-61.4 (6.7-4.6), Extra Urban 55.4-76.3 (5.1-3.7), Combined 49.5-70.6 (5.7-4.0), CO₂ emissions 131-106 g/km. The above fuel consumption ﬁgures are based on an EU test for comparative purposes only and may not reﬂect real driving results.

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159

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wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel Image Luxury Travel 65 Perton & Bridgnorth Travel 65 Appliances Electrical & Gas Capital Appliances 51 Bathrooms Carvers Building Supplies 19 Eaton Kitchens 47 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 43 Roman Bathrooms 33 Beauty Beauty Rooms 115 Heaven Skin Care 104 Beauty Clinics – Cosmetic Cosmetique Aesthetic Clinic 101 Beds & Bedroom Furniture Chasewood 39 Cousins 8/9 Merridale Furnishers 13 Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Fabric Barn 33 Merridale Furnishers 13 Val Hever Blinds 15 Virgo 15 Building Services & Contractors MBH Builders 49 Three Pines 45 Business Support Services Nightingale Virtual Group 63 Butchers Allan Bennett 71 Poxons 71 R J Hipkiss & Sons 73 Caravan Accessories Cannock Caravan Accessories 69 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists Touch Dry 32 Carpets & Flooring - Supply & Fit 47 1st Choice Flooring Sandford Carpets 23 Virgo Carpets & Interiors 15 Car Sales & Service Autosales 159 Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton 163 Children’s Charity Promise Dreams 77 Chiropody & Podiatry Tom Casey 126 Composite Doors Doorsmart 54 Computer Services Finchfield IT 63 Delicatessen Corbelli 72 Dentistry Parkside Dental Surgery 125 Simply Dentures 118 Total Implant Solutions 2 Debt Collection Services JB Credit Services 63 Design & Print Synaxis 67 The Studio 69 Diet & Slimming Cambridge Diet 118 Drive & Patio Cleaning DCS 59 Education Newbridge School 139 North Shropshire College 131 Tettenhall College 137

Electricians & Electrical Contractors Central Electrical Contracts 53 Excel Electrical Contractors 60 Entertainment & Leisure Compton Hospiuce 74 RAF Cosford Museum 75 Tettenhall Round Table Ball 88 Estate Agents Berriman Eaton 11/12 Fashion & Retail Aristocats 113 Diffusion 108/109/154 Fencing & Gates Profence 59 Firework Events Fire Monkey Pyro 91 Fireplaces & Stoves Flaming Fires 23 Wolverhampton Fireplaces 13 Financial Advisors Midland Independent 16/17/133 Financial Services Firewood Black Country Firewood 61 Fitness & Leisure Centres Artisan Personal Fitness Training 117 Chris Jewkes Fitness 121 NG Personal Training 123 South Staffordshire Leisure 141 Function Rooms for Hire Oxley Park Golf Club 72 Furniture & Furnishings Cousins 8/9 Merridale Furnishers 13 Ralvern 41 Sofa Factory Outlet 37 Virgo Carpets & Interiors 15 Garage Services Four Ashes Renault 157 HiQ Tyres 155 Rock Garage 160 Garden Design Boningale Garden Creations 57 Gardening & Landscaping 56 Lealans Garden Centre Glass & Hardware Specialists Tech Alum System 55 Glazing Repairs Blakes Glass & Glazing 58 Golf Clubs Patshull Park Golf Club 144 Wergs Golf Club 145 Hairdressers Salon 27 117 Health & Wellbeing Float World 122 Health Care Cover 129 Paycare Hospices Compton Hospice 74 Hospitals – Private Nuffield 102 Interior Designers Virgo Carpets & Interiors 15 Italian Deli Corbelli’s 72 I.T. Media & Communications Concero 135 Jewellers 7 T.A.Henn Kitchen Doors - Replacement Dream Doors 35

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Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit Bespoke Kitchens 25 Carvers Building Supplies 19 Dream Doors 35 Eaton Kitchens 47 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 43 Roman Bathrooms 33 Legal Services Manby Bowdler Solicitors 131 Sharratts Solicitors 132 Letting Agents Berriman Eaton 11/12 Lighting Lighting R Us 53 Loft Ladders Lyndale 40 Music Lessons Rick Hampton 65 Opticians Taylor Biddle 119 Orthopaedic Surgery Wolverhampton Hip & Knee Clinic 127 Oven Cleaning Services OvenClean 58 Painters & Decorators Kevin Jackson 60 Patrick Bellew 62 Personal Fitness Training Artisan 117 Chris Jewkes 121 Photography Crescent Imaging 99 Plumbing & Heating JB Plumbing & Heating 60 Property Cleaning RC Cleaning 58 Restaurants/Pubs 3 Hammers Bistro 89 79 Halfpenny Green Vineyards Park House Hotel 84 Patshull Park 83 81 Shrewsbury Arms Sir Jack’s 81 84/89 Wergs Golf Club Wombourne Tandoori 85 Rugs Frith Rugs 21 Skip Hire Wolverhampton Skip Hire 62 Stairs & Stair Components Lyndale 40 Tea Rooms / Afternoon Tea Halfpenny Green Vineyards 79 Himley Hall 93 Park House Hotel 95 Theatres The Grand Theatre 164 Tiles & Interiors Heart of Stone 46 Tile Choice 5 Tyres HiQ Tyres 155 Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Vineyards 79 Wallpaper, Paints & Decorator Accessories S J Dixon & Son 31 Wedding Venues Himley Hall 93 Park House Hotel 95 Patshull Park 99 Windows, Conservatories, Orangeries Tettenhall Windows 27

161

WORLD PREMIERE OF THE MERCEDES-BENZ GLC COUPÉ:

SPORTS COUPÉ MEETS “G” lip, which means that water is unable to strike the rear window.

Perfect combination of design elements from two different worlds The striking features of the front end are its dominant, steeply raked diamond radiator grille with single louvre and integral star, short overhang and SUVinspired override guard. The innovative headlamp concept, optionally in LED High Performance technology, sports the now characteristic Mercedes-Benz light signature. A striking injection of sports car genes is provided by the large lateral air inlets.

The dynamicexpressive styling of the GLC Coupé concept was a centre of attention at its world premiere in 2015 in Shanghai. It unites the typical stylistic elements of a coupé with the design language of current SUV models. Just one year later, this promise has become a reality: the new GLC Coupé translates the design idiom of the show car, with its distinctive basic structure and stretched greenhouse, virtually unchanged into series production. At the same time, the sports car among Mercedes-Benz’s mid-size SUVs impresses with its brandtypical safety, modern assistance systems and an especially sporty-dynamic character. The as-standard sports suspension as well as more direct sports steering, DYNAMIC SELECT and 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission combine effortlessly superior ride comfort with decidedly sporty agility. Two suspension variants with continuously adjustable damping are optionally available: the new DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL with steel springing as well as the already familiar AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air

suspension. Both options make for further enhanced driving dynamics and comfort. “The GLC Coupé reflects our iconic Mercedes-Benz coupé design while symbolising the bipolarity of our brand – it is ‘hot and cool’,” said Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Daimler AG. “With its design idiom of sensual purity, it perfectly embodies our styling philosophy while at the same time representing contemporary luxury.” The combination of multifunctional SUV and emotively appealing coupé constitutes a skillful fusion of emotion and intelligence. With an exterior length of 4.73 metres, a height of 1.60 metres and a wheelbase of 2.87 metres, the GLC Coupé is dynamic and compact in appearance. This makes the Coupé almost eight centimetres longer and some four centimetres lower than the multitalented GLC, with which it shares its basic architecture. The GLC Coupé owes its distinct character to a typically coupé-esque, singlelouvred diamond radiator grille and a restyled, dropping roofline. The A-pillar is less steeply raked, while the continuation of the roof outline is lower, terminating in the elegantly flowing, muscular rear end typical of a coupé. The rear window dispenses with a wiper, as the airflow does not break away until after the spoiler

The perfection with which the intrinsically opposed design worlds of coupé and SUV have been brought into harmony is revealed by the side view of the 1.60-metrehigh GLC Coupé with its typical, stretched roofline of a sports coupé. The squat greenhouse blends in perfectly with the side of the vehicle to underline its coupé character. The interplay between high beltline and wide shoulders results in proportions that lend the GLC Coupé its dynamic looks. This interaction is given added emphasis by the drawnin waist between the dropping line and the lower, rearwards ascending light-catching contour. Peter Smith, General Manager of Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, added: “We’re delighted with what the GLC Coupe will add to our already impressive range. We believe this dynamic model will appeal to many of our customers to become an extremely popular choice. You can pre-book a test drive with us by calling us on 01902 427897.”

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV2 4HD 162

wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

The all new GLC CoupĂŠ.

Standing out from the crowd.

Coming soon to Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton. Call us on 01902 276977 to pre-book your test drive. Drayton Group Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton

Penn Road, Wolverhampton WV2 4HD 01902 276977 www.draytonmercedes.co.uk

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the Mercedes-Benz range: urban 15.5(18.2)-72.4(3.9), extra urban 23.9(11.8)88.3(3.2), combined 20.5(13.8)-100.9(2.8). CO2 emissions 322-48 g/km.

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163

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164

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wolverhampton west magazine | october 2016

Wolverhampton West Magazine - October 2016