Wolverhampton West Magazine

September 2015

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September 2015

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Hello Readers No-one loves a party pooper and traditionally September is just that. Skulking about at the end of summer like an unwanted chaperone on a great night out; kicking its heels and insidiously marking time until the clocks go back in October. Our holidays are now behind us; the kids are heading back to school; and the weather is beginning to turn its back on sun. But don’t let September sound the death knell for fun. We’ve got 156 pages full of reasons why this time of year needn’t let you down. Check out Louise Presley-Turner’s tips on how to master your mood. Read all about Sam Saunders’ secrets to staying looking youthful longer, smile your way through our features on dentistry and let personal trainer Chris Jewkes keep you fit and healthy. Nothing does more for keeping spirits up than good grub, so foodies among you will enjoy our restaurant review at Sir Jack’s, Molineux. Then there’s our Recipe of the Month on page 30 and make sure you take a butchers at the top three butchers in our local area. For more continental culinary panache, check out page 71 for celebrity chef Gino D’Acampo’s live stage show at Wolverhampton Civic Hall. Feel the need to pamper yourself? Then read all about newly awarded Clarins’ Salon of the Year, Beauty Rooms in Wall Heath. And then study up on the latest fashion, hair and make-up secrets in our dedicated pages. We have a wedding section to tell you where’s best to get hitched and stories on Bantock Park-based fossils with which to bewitch. So there’s something for all us creatures, great and small. See you in November

Geoff

Wolverhampton West Magazine Lytham Rd, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY Tel: 01902 744217 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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 (www.s28.co.uk) We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Wolverhampton West Magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, The Publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert or editorial. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Wolverhampton West Magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise without the prior consent of Wolverhampton West Magazine Ltd.

Contents Pattingham Scarecrow Festival 4 The local property market by Nick Berriman 8 Rotary club’s young citizen of the year 10 Malvern – Still sparkling 12 Louise Presley Turner – Life Coach 16 Carver Wolverhampton Marathon 18 Why I love the Brewood Woggle 18 A new lease of life for Wolverhampton’s 20 Grand Posthouse Crosswords and puzzles 24 Fit, fabulous and over forty 28 Recipe of the month 30 Codsall & Bilbrook History Society 34 Codsall Community Arts Festival photo competition 34 Bravaccio’s competition 42 Grand Theatre competition 46 Joel Richards trophy 48 Wolverhampton Police 54 Gardening with Ann Winwood 60 Walk the walk and make a dream come true 64 Wolverhampton society of artists 66 The riches beneath us 67 Sir Jack’s food review 76/77 Meet the boss 80 Beauty – Get gorgeous glowing skin 90 Essential Autumn Style Royston Blythe 96/97 Womens fashion 110/111 Tom’s tip 123 Education and Schooling 126 Social scene 134-141 Golf Tip 142 The smarter way to get from a to b 148 – The smart forrail Class of one – Jeep Cherokee 150 Answers to puzzles 152 Seat Ibiza – A motoring icon 154 Winners of West Midlands Safari and Leisure Park Competition Jennifer Murrin, Perton Hetty Dodd, Tettenhall Rachel Groom, Wolverhampton Margaret Taylor, Codsall Susan Tandy, Wednesfield Winners of Cosford Food Festival Lianne Granger, Wombourne Paul Robinson, Albrighton Jayne Cooper, Perton

*Total distribution 24,500 copies across 2 months

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Pattingham Village - 25th to 27th September 2015 Pattingham is looking forward to its third Scarecrow Festival. Following the very successful Scarecrow Festivals held in 2011 and 2013 in the village of Pattingham in South Staffs, the third 3-day Scarecrow Festival will

take place from Friday 25th to 27th September 2015. The event will be focused around the Village Hall, where a Scarecrow Trail will begin taking visitors on a planned route around the village so that they can see over 130 scarecrow creations. Young children can also join in the Scarecrow Quiz, taking part gives them a Scarecrow badge.

Evening Events During the 3 day Festival, there will be three evening events, including : ‘Some Creatures Great and Small’, a talk by Rob Colin-Stokes from the Forestry Commission On Friday evening (25th September), a traditional Harvest Supper of a hot wholesome meal with a sweet is planned in the Village Hall together with our own Rob Colin Stokes who will give a talk with a visual presentation entitled ‘Some Creatures Great and Small’ – all about selective British wildlife, biology and management. Rob is a Technical Trainer with the Forestry Commission, working with wildlife and the environment and presents a fascinating and compelling insight into his daily routine. A licensed bar will be operating and tickets at £7.50 each will be available from 1st August from Liz Sampson on 01902 700823.

There will also be scarecrows in St Chad’s church plus a raffle with the first prize of a special scarecrow cake. Refreshments, including homemade ice cream, will be available at the Village Hall throughout the three days. Ample free car parking will be available close to the village centre.

Saturday Night of Folk and Fun with the group 'Pro Tempore' Saturday evening (26th September) will see the popular Folk group 'Pro Tempore' performing in the Village Hall with their particular style of foot-tapping music, mixed with good banter and jokes together with a hearty Hog Roast Supper to be served during the interval. Tickets at £12.50 each will be available from 1st August from Jill Parker on 01902 700755 or email: jill.parker4@btinternet.com. Again a licensed bar will be operating, making it an evening not to be missed!

Special Harvest Festival Evensong The Sunday Evensong (27th September) will be a special ‘Songs of Praise’ service with an augmented Church Choir commencing at 6.00pm, to include the dedication by the Archdeacon, Dr. Susan Weller, of the new glass porch doors made possible with the proceeds from our first two Scarecrow Festivals.

For more details visit the Church website at www.pattingham-church.org or call Chrissie Ringrose on 01902 700340, or Mike Coope (Publicity) on 01902 700973. (Sat Nav Post code WV6 7DU) 04

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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The Bespoke Experience

Make it Personal, Make it Special, Make it your own…

At T.A. Henn, we have been creating bespoke pieces for customers for generations, for special occasions such as for engagements, weddings, wedding anniversaries, as well as remodelling once loved jewellery with beautiful content, giving it the opportunity to be worn again by the next generation. Seeing a client’s face light up when we present designs of what we can do with their piece of jewellery is very rewarding. Delivering the final item is indeed a special moment for us all.

Jewellery holds a lot of emotion, that’s why we’ll work with you to design or re-style an existing piece to reflect what you are trying to achieve, whether it is a ring, brooch, pendant, earrings or all of them! Some large pieces of Victorian jewellery have been known to give birth to a whole family of new pieces! Perhaps you have a clear vision of what you would like us to do, as some of our clients bring in pictures of a particular style they would like, however it is not essential. Guided by your preferences we will come up with suggestions and work closely with you during this process. We can work with stones you might already have or we can also source new stones from all over the world, anything is possible...

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The local

property market by Nick Berriman

of available properties, remains more than adequate. A look in estate agents windows will soon show that there is not a shortage of stock but if sales continue at the present rate things might change! Why then has there been such an increase in sales. I have often said that the market largely depends on confidence. In this post election period I think people feel more secure and have an expectation that the overall financial situation will remain stable without any unexpected bumps. Whether we have really seen the end of boom and bust remains to be seen and most of us have experienced the property market rollercoaster in action but we must hope that some of the past disasters do not repeat.

In every previous edition I have ended my article with my views on the current state of the market and a report on how we have fared in the last month. This time I am going to indulge in some uncharacteristic trumpet blowing because we have just had our record month for sales of which we are all very proud and there is no future in hiding one’s light under a bushel! Our Tettenhall branch exceeded £10.5 million of agreed sales during July, Wombourne had 27 sales and exceeded £6 million and across our three offices the total was almost £20 million. In addition the Lettings department agreed 21 lets. We congratulate and thank all our staff for their splendid efforts. As I write this there is a report from Lloyds that prices are rising but sales have slowed. I am constantly amazed how often national reports seem to record the antithesis of our experiences. We have found a significant increase in volume but little movement in prices. Simple economics suggests that until there are more buyers than properties available prices will not move very much. It is supply and demand. Although the demand has increased the supply, the number 08

Estate agents have often been blamed for rising prices but that is somewhat unfair as our duty to our clients is to sell for the best price available. It is not our job to ask moderate prices to achieve quick sales at near the asking prices but to ask a figure which will achieve the best possible price. Of course if the price is too high buyers will be put off and finding the right figure is a delicate balance. Valuation is not a definitive matter. There are many more indications a valuer can use today. The internet can give detailed information of other sales of similar properties in the area whereas in years gone by none of that was available. However no two properties are the same and the skill of the valuer is to interpret and analyse the information and utilise his own knowledge and experience.

must make sure that his client knows everything about the property he is buying including any problems such as rights of way, disputes or relevant nearby planning applications. Things are becoming more streamlined with computerised information. It is sometimes said that the system in Scotland is quicker and better. What happens there is that an offer is made which is really a tender and once that is accepted by the seller it is final and binding. A price is named and offers above are requested. The problem is that as the offer can be binding before making an offer the proposed buyer must have done all the pre-contract work and arranged finance. This will mean a survey fee and where several people are interested all the unsuccessful buyers will have wasted much time and money. Our system may have some flaws but buying and selling property is a significant financial transaction and needs proper protection. By the time of my next report we will have some idea of whether the current increased interest has been maintained. We have exceeded our target sales figures for the last four months and I hope to be able to say next time that it is now five!

We hear criticisms of our complex legal system for the transfer of property ownership but it must be appreciated that the way it is done is to give safeguards to both sides. In some European countries a Notary deals with the legalities but his job is only to confirm that A has agreed to sell to B but does not have to ensure that A is the proper owner and is entitled to sell. Our system ensures that the seller is really the beneficial owner and it is the estate agents job to ensure that a purchaser has the available funds before an offer is accepted. The purchasers solicitor wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Property of the Month BARN HOUSE MEWS, STABLEFORD ROAD, ACKLETON A stunning, detached residence which has recently been converted to an excellent standard with a superb, contemporary flair. 38 ft Principal reception room providing both lounge and dining room areas, inner lobby, cloakroom, kitchen, two bedroom suites, two further bedrooms and house bathroom. Driveway, detached three bay garage block and rear garden. (EPC: D). TETTENHALL OFFICE.

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The 5 Rotary Clubs of Wolverhampton

Head Girl is crowned Wolverhampton Young Citizen of the Year Sykes, travelled from her home in Yorkshire to present the Award which was sponsored and supported by Waitrose, Wolverhampton City Council, the Express and Star and Wolverhampton West Magazine. Six finalists with their proposers and parents attended a ceremony in the City Council Mayoral Suite. Chairman of judges, Sir Geoff Hampton was assisted by the Mayor, Councillor Ian Brookfield, James Alldridge,( Manager of Waitrose), Peter Madeley, ( 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. L-R Back: Cedric Randle, President of Wolverhampton St. Georges Rotary Club, Eirwyn Jones, President of Wednesfield Rotary Club, Ken Dolman, President of Bilston Rotary Club, Mayor of Wolverhampton Cll. Ian Brookfield, Sir Geoff Hampton, Chairman of Judges, Roger Fellows, President of Wolverhampton Rotary Club and Roger Timbrell, Past President of Tettenhall Rotary Club and Event Organising Committee Chairman. Front: Alfie Baugh, Anisha Aujlay, Gursonia Claire, Kashmire Hawker, Alison Sykes and the winner, Ramnik Uppal

Wolverhampton Girls' High School Head Girl, Ramnik Uppal, (18) has been crowned 2015 Young Citizen of the Year. Organised by the five Rotary Clubs of Wolverhampton, the award recognises young people under the age of 19 who have gone the extra mile in serving the community. Ramnik received a trophy and cheque for £100. The winner is an outstanding scholar and Head Girl, who finds time to mentor younger pupils, complete ‘the challenge’ with the National Citizen Service, design a campaign to raise awareness

about a hospice, supports its fund raising, works as a volunteer with dementia patients once a week and regularly helps in a local Barnado’s store. Teacher, Rebecca Brett, who nominated her said ‘Ramnik is a credit to her family, school and to the community. She deserves recognition for her tireless work for others. She is an exceptional young citizen’. The Award is dedicated to Tom Warren who was Wolverhampton’s Director of Education from 1920 to 1945 and was one of only two U.K. Rotarians to have been President of Rotary International throughout the world. His granddaughter, Alison

Runners up were Kashmire Hawker (17), who is Vice Chairman of the U.K. Youth Parliament, and nominated by’ Changing Young Lives’ which champions the rights of young people with disabilities or special needs and Alfie Baugh (8), who publishes a neighbourhood magazine, has organised neighbourhood events and raised hundreds of pounds for charity. Other nominated finalists recognised were Anisha Aujlay (16) and Gursonia Clair (16) for their charity work at Tettenhall College and Sophie Evans (18) for her outstanding contribution to scouting. Tettenhall Rotarian, Roger Timbrell, Chairman of the organising committee said ‘All of these young people are truly inspirational and superb role models for others.’

Rotary Club of Wolverhampton have an enjoyable evening listening to Jazz At a recent Summer Social Event, which was held in a marquee at Stableford Farm, Worfield, (being recycled after a wedding for this charity event) the home of Rotarian Peter Williams, nearly 200 Rotarians, family and friends were entertained by The Chase Jazzmen. A guest attending the function with one of the parties was well known local Jazz singer Carol Westwood. Carol who had never encountered this band before, was persuaded to join them to sing

several numbers in what was an extremely polished and professional performance, which added greatly to the enjoyment of the event. During the evening a raffle was held, the proceeds of which were added to the donation to the Wolverhampton Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre at Newbridge, Wolverhampton, where Peter Williams is the Chairman and the founder member of the Wolverhampton Rotary Club Committee, which originally founded The Centre over 25 years ago.

Good news One of the few countries where Polio still existed until recently, Nigeria, thanks to the world wide efforts of the International Rotary Movement and its “End Polio Now” campaign, has not seen a case recorded for over 12 months and is well on the way to now being declared free of this terrible affliction. This leaves only Bangladesh and Afghanistan where work is still left to be done to achieve the goal of a Polio free World.

Visit www.rotaryclubwolverhampton.co.uk and talk to us. 10

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

By Rob Taylor

Still

S pa r k l i n g

I have to smile every time I buy a bottle of water from the shops.

This simple act evokes memories of conversations from long ago with my grandfather, who was always at pains to point out the folly in paying for something that is freely available from the kitchen tap. Assertions such as, “there’s nothing wrong with the council pop” and “buying that is just plain daft – what’s next: bottled air for sale at Tesco’s?” live long in my memory. From time to time I endeavoured to counter his argument, espousing some marketing cobblers from off the side of the bottle, but he was always on to me in seconds: “The natural underground filtration process ensures a far superior purity”, I’d say. He, the retired hydro geochemist, would retort: “The Drinking Water Inspectorate regulates mains water, while it’s up to local authorities to watch over bottled water plants and I wouldn’t trust them lot as far as I could throw em.” “But”, I’d continue, “this water has been around for thousands of years….” “Then”, he’d interrupt, “why is there an expiration date on the bottle then?” I’ll never forget the day we sat down to watch an episode of Only Fools and Horses, wherein the irrepressibly entrepreneurial Del Boy, in pursuit of his millionaire dreams, came up with the idea of bottling tap water and selling it as the exclusive ‘Peckham Spring’.

on flowing. However, the notion of drinking water from the bottle is not a modern fad by any means, and has in fact been going on for hundreds of years. And there is one local hotspot with which bottled mineral water is synonymous: Malvern. And it is of course – to paraphrase Del Boy – one hundred percent pukka! According to the Holywell Malvern Spring website, ‘The Holywell Spring in the Malvern Hills is the original source of bottled water in the UK. In 1622, monks at Great Malvern Priory captured the water for the benefit of the town’s elderly and infirm.’ For years it has been a popular drink within the British Royal family, ever since Queen Victoria came across it at the Royal Exhibition. From then on she refused to travel without it and today Queen Elizabeth II does exactly the same. Even her illustrious namesake, Queen Elizabeth I, enjoyed the wealth of minerals found in Malvern mineral water, which owes itself to the preCambrian granite rock that makes up the Malvern Hills. In fact Malvern was just a little sleepy hollow, until two doctors, James Wilson and James Manby Gully, who, while studying hydrotherapy in 1842, sought out natural pure water sites in England. From then on Great Malvern in Worcestershire grew rapidly as a spa town with therapeutic qualities being attributed to its ‘holy springs’, following the Georgian fancy of “taking the waters” and later the Victorian obsession with “the water cure.” In 1756 Dr John Wall tested the water and famously declared that there’s “just nothing in it at all’; he was, of course, referring to the sheer force of the Malvern Hills as a great purifier, able to strip away any and all impurities. No doubt by subverting Wall’s assertion to his pragmatic and cynical ends, my grandfather would agree.

And this is no longer just comedy gold as, in the gold rush to grab a piece of what is today the world’s best selling soft drink – more people buy bottled water than fruit juice or fizzy drinks – some supermarkets are now selling ‘still water’, alongside popular mineral water brands, that actually comes straight from the tap. Last year in the UK we swigged 2.6 billion litres of bottled water and the craze only seems likely to keep 12

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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S AV E R S B A F F L E D B Y N E W RULE THAT LETS YOU CLAIM

UP TO £5,000 IN INTEREST - TAX FREE!

Savers are confused by a new tax rule that came into effect in April. This lets you earn up to £5,000 in savings interest without paying any tax. But how much of this allowance you can claim depends on the source of your income as it is split between your savings and nonsavings income.

Those whose salary, pension or other non-savings income totals more than £15,600 (£15,660 if you were born April 6th 1938) can’t claim the special tax break. But you can get it if your total income from savings is below this level. Depending on your salary, you can register as a nontaxpayer or claim back some of the tax to be automatically deducted from your savings. Which you do depends on the split between your savings and non-savings income. To work out which category you’re in add up your total non-

savings income. This includes salary, pensions, benefits, dividends and rental income from any second home or buy-to-let investments. Don’t add in your interest from your savings accounts, but tot it up in a separate column. Ignore all interest you earn in your cash ISAs and other tax-free savings such as Premium Bonds and National Savings & Investments Savings Certificates. If your non-savings total is less than £10,600(10,660) and your savings interest is less than £5,000 you don’t have to pay any tax so you can register as a

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

non-taxpayer with your bank or building society. For example, if you earn £3,000 before tax in interest from your savings and £7,000 from your pension, your total income is £10,000 or £600 less than the personal allowance. In this case you are deemed a non-taxpayer. You can also register to have interest paid before tax if your non-savings income breaches the £10,600 (£10,660) limit but after adding in your savings income you don’t go over the £15,600 limit. For example if your salary is £11,000 and your savings £3,000 (a total of £14,000) you are under the limit. To get the interest paid before tax is deducted fill in form R85 which is available from banks or building societies. They will automatically deduct 20% tax if you don’t. Fill in a separate R85 for each of your taxable accounts. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that one form will cover your easy-access account and the fixed-rate bonds you hold with the same bank.

If your pension is £15,600 and savings interest £400 you can’t reclaim any tax. THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT AND THE INCOME FROM IT CAN GO DOWN AS WELL AS UP AND YOU MAY NOT GET BACK THE ORIGINAL AMOUNT INVESTED. PAST PERFORMANCE IS NOT A RELIABLE INDICATOR FOR FUTURE RESULTS. LEVELS, BASES AND RELIEFS FROM TAXATION ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND THEIR VALUE DEPENDS ON THE INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE INVESTOR. PLEASE CONTACT US FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR IF YOU ARE IN ANY DOUBT AS TO THE SUITABILITY OF AN INVESTMENT.

If your savings interest is in a joint account the interest is typically split 50/50 by the taxman. If you are both non-taxpayers you both need to fill in a R85. If one of you is a taxpayer but the other is not check to see whether your bank or building society allows you to receive half after tax and half before. If not you will have to reclaim the tax from HM Revenue & Customs. If the sum of your savings and non-savings limit is higher than £15,600 the socalled “starting rate for savings limit” you can’t register as a non-taxpayer. However you can claim back some tax as long as your non-savings income is not higher than £15,600. For example, with £2,000 savings interest plus your £14,000 pension, your total income is £16,000 but you still have £1,600 (£15,600 minus £14,000) to use up in the starting rate for savings limit. So you can claim back the tax paid on £1,600 of your savings income or £320 (20 per cent of £1,600) www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

John Webb

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

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

Midland Independent Financial Services Ltd, 153 Avon Road, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 1LF. Telephone 01543 468877. www.midlandifa.co.uk 15

Self care

in a manic world The modern world is a manic place, juggling family life with work, keeping on top of the housework, the endless barrage of paperwork, not to mention keeping up to date with technology! There are so many things that demand our time and attention. And very often it leaves very little time for getting our own needs met. But, putting ourselves second serves no one as it can lead to burnout and ill health. In fact, you could say that not looking after yourself is actually irresponsible. Taking care of yourself benefits not only you, but also everyone around you. You will be a better mother/father, daughter/son, friend or colleague when you make time to get your own needs met on a regular basis.

So ask yourself… ‘How am I neglecting my own needs right now?’ Try these five simple steps to implement a personal self care plan into your life.

Take time alone. Whilst different people have varying degrees of introversion and extroversion, having time alone is so important. It’s your opportunity to retreat from the noisy world, albeit for a few minutes a day. Create just a few moments of silence in your day and you will notice very quickly that you will become a much more peaceful and calm person. Silence is a wonderful healer as it allows our mind the space to reflect, to think and to find solutions to our problems. Creating just a little bit of silence in your day can create miracles in your life. Action: Try listening to a short relaxation or meditation audio for five minutes a day for the next two weeks.

Create an appointment with yourself. Each week make an appointment with yourself. Write it in your diary and give it the same importance you would a dental appointment or a meeting at work. You are just as important! Each week decide what you’d like to do, maybe take yourself out for lunch, take a walk in nature, go shopping or just curl up on the sofa with a good book. Action: Get into the routine of giving yourself this precious time each week and let nothing get in the way. Get your diary out right now and make an appointment with yourself!

quota and if not, set two evenings a week where you have an early night. It will make all the difference.

Look after your body. The simple fact is this; if you don’t look after your body you will have nowhere to live! Fill up your fuel tank so that you have the energy to live your life to the full. Action: Take time to moisturise your skin, get your hair cut often, eat fresh fruit and veg, take an exercise class or have a regular healing treatment. Keep your body strong and healthy. Remember, a healthy body leads to a healthy mind.

Buy yourself a gift each month. Each month put a little money aside to buy yourself something nice - a bunch of flowers, some new shoes, a new lipstick or a fancy new cushion. Don’t wait for someone else to treat you (you might be waiting a while), make it a priority to treat yourself every month! Retail therapy can be good for us as it releases those mood-lifting endorphins. So don’t deprive yourself, buy yourself something each month guilt free and enjoy it! Action: Set up a savings pot and when you get paid transfer an amount (however big or small) over automatically. Each month you must spend this money on yourself!

The power of sleep. Are you getting enough zeds or are you among the many millions who unwittingly shortchange themselves on sleep each night. Sleep is vital to our wellbeing and not getting enough quickly leads to burnout. It makes us moody, it affects our memory and ability to think straight and it weakens our immune system. Not getting enough sleep is vital to your vitality. Action: Make sure you’re getting your full 16

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visit www.thegameoflife.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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C a r v e r Wolverhampton Marathon Not long to go now until the 18th Carver Wolverhampton Marathon Events and organisers are busy putting the final touches together and ensuring there are enough marshals and volunteers to cover safety around the course. The Course Manager and his team will be putting out warning signs making sure that all the competitors know exactly which way they need to be going. The Marathon Charities for 2015 have provided their required number of marshals who will have been trained by Marshals Manager John Nightingale. The events, ever popular, attract many different people and the organisers aim is to encourage young children and family groups to take part in the events. To this effect, there has been an exciting addition to the event list for 2015. A 3K walk in the Park will be available for anyone to enter for just £5 per adult over 16 and children can walk free. The walk takes place within the park and the organisers hope it will be as successful as all the other events.

Race Director Mary Harding says. “I am pleased to be adding a walk which has been kindly sponsored by Call Print. This is a wonderful event for the City of Wolverhampton and all proceeds will go to the Charities who are Compton Hospice, Samaritans, Beacon Centre for the Blind and the Mayoral Charity Fund.” Just by entering any of these events you will be helping to raise money for the charities. The organisers will be taking late entries on SATURDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER from 10.00 until 5.00pm. STRICTLY NO ENTRIES FOR ANY OF THE EVENTS ON RACE SUNDAY.

For more details visit the website www.carverwolverhamptonmarathonevents.co.uk

Why I love the

Brewood Woggle!

By Ruth Wake

Tranquil setting, tough route, great community atmosphere and all for a good cause – that’s the Brewood Woggle! I started running 5 years ago as a stress buster and ran my first race –“Race for Life” at West Park in 2010. Since then, I have moved onto compete in numerous Half Marathons across the West Midlands.

is served by the local Co-op and Scouts act as Marshalls

It is the Woggle however that has a special place in my heart. Being a resident of Brewood for over 11 years, there is something special about running with others that you know and admire.

The Woggle was formed in 2013 on the back of the very successful Brewood Cycle Race to raise funds to replace the Scout hut. It attracts over 200 runners from locations as far as Scotland taking the runner on a scenic route around Chillington Hall and the surrounding area.

The Brewood Woggle is not just a race; it is a show of community spirit when residents from across the village pull together to support. Cakes are baked by locals; tea

The race normally finishes at Brewood Middle School but I am delighted that this year, we will be finishing in the Market Square hopefully to an array of supporters.

The Woggle is a race where experienced runners meet non experienced ones and if you are new to running, it is a great goal to set yourself. The event is on Sunday 27th September, starting at 10am, from St Dominic’s High School for Girls in the village centre. There are also a number of children’s races for tots to teenagers starting at 9am costing £2.50 (pay on the day) Adults can apply on line at: www.brewoodwoggle.com Maybe I’ll see you there?

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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A new lease of life for Wolverhampton’s

Grand Post House

Exciting plans are underway to transform one of Wolverhampton’s historic landmark buildings, the former Grand Post House, that’s located at 6270 Lichfield Street.

Built in 1895, the imposing building that spans three streets - Lichfield Street, Princess Street and Berry Street - served as the city’s central post office, until the 1960s when it was moved next door into a modern building. In more recent years the structure, that stands next door to The Grand Theatre and is predominately Grade 2 listed, was used by the University of Wolverhampton until 2007 but has since stood empty. Stepping in to breathe new life into the Victorian building, Gerald Bailey - founder of clothing chain, Diffusion - and part of the consortium, Grand Post House Ltd, acquired the site and has been integral in planning its re-development. With plans to use the vast 40,000sq ft. plot to form a fantastic centre of culture, business and entertainment, the re-development will undoubtedly serve to greatly improve the image and appeal of the city. 20

Community Mobiliser, Jay Blades explains: “We’re really keen to create a place that will keep talented people in the city, that’s why we’ve teamed up with the University of Wolverhampton.

He continues: “There are so many gifted students studying here that will ultimately leave to go to Birmingham or London to pursue a career or start their own business. We want to be able to provide a place for them to do that here.” There will be space for an art gallery, where students can exhibit their work, as well as retail units where they can sell their designs. Dedicated live/work spaces on the upper floors of the building will allow student’s creativity to thrive any time of the day or night. “The street level gallery and retail units will be ideal for fashion designers and artists wishing to display and sell their work.” Utilising his experience of working with young people through his social enterprise, Jay & Co, Jay is well-placed to advise on what will benefit the youth of the city. “Jay & Co is a social enterprise that works with the most disengaged and disadvantaged youths to fire them up and reengage them back into society. Developing young people to gain a work ethic, gain confidence in a work setting and learn valuable practical skills through learning how to restore furniture.”

The social enterprise teaches young people how to take an old piece of discarded furniture and transform it into something beautiful and saleable. Jay & Co will have a workshop on-site at the Old Post House, enabling Wolverhampton’s youth to benefit from the project too.

And it’s not only the younger generation that will profit, as shared office space, complete with meeting and conference rooms, will be available to rent, which will be ideal for start-up companies. “The co-working environment will enable business owners to connect with each other and share and discuss ideas.” The impressive curved white building that sits on the corner of Lichfield Street and Princess Street will be home to a coffee house and a shop selling fresh, local produce. Foodies will be pleased to hear that a top restaurant chain will move into the building on Lichfield Street and there will be an impressive rooftop area too. Entertainment is certain to play an important role at the site, as licenses have been granted by Wolverhampton City Council for the venue to hold all manner of events. The project is planned to be completed by September 2016 and will undoubtedly give Wolverhampton City Centre the boost it needs.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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WINDOWS & CONServatOrIeS

Your Local Bi-Folding Door Specialist As the popularity of Bi-Folding Doors continues to grow we at Tettenhall are only too aware that Not all Bi-Folding doors are made the same, and simply specifying Aluminium doors doesn’t offer any safeguards, the most common problem with Bi-Fold doors is “door drop” where the folding mechanism and track becomes stiff or difficult to open, this can be caused by poor design or by being fitted incorrectly. Toe and Healing the glass units into the door segments is critical in making sure the balance and alignment of the doors enables them to open and close with a minimum of effort.

The best advice I could give any one who is considering investing in some Bi-Folding doors is to Try before you Buy and luckily at Tettenhall’s showroom we have both Aluminium and Upvc Bi-folds on display so you can decide which best suits your property and check out the operation of the doors before you commit to purchasing. Also one of the other decisions to be made is how many doors to have and what opening configuration, we can offer expert advice and as all jobs include a professional survey prior to installation if there are any issues with things like Lintels these will be picked up. Open Monday to Saturday 10am until 4.30pm

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Quick Crossword Down 1 Remove doubt (6) 2 Singing group (5) 3 Sea mammal (7) 5 Surplus (5) 6 Altered (7) 7 Scarce (6) 8 Supporting (11) 14 Not included (7) 15 Butler or maid (7) 16 Remove (6) 17 Scheme (6) 19 Not outer (5) 21 Portion (5)

Across 1 Make a choice (6) 4 Railings (6) 9 Enlarged (7) 10 Headgear (5) 11 Home planet (5) 12 Citrus fruits (7) 13 Rural area (11) 18 Leaving (7) 20 Answer (5) 22 Devoured (5) 23 Closest (7) 24 Withstand (6) 25 Narrow river (6)

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Banish carpet critters with Blyth Group

When it comes to soft furnishings, carpets can be one of the most expensive purchases you make for your property, so it’s important to take good care of them. Recent studies inform us of the household plague that is Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, also known as the common dust mite. Undetectable to the naked eye, at between just 0.2-0.4 mm in length, these pesky mites can make your carpet their home and they can lay between 30 – 100 eggs in their short life cycle. This can be a big problem for people who suffer from allergies. The combination of dust mite droppings, dead skin and pollen in the summer months can emphasise these allergies making symptoms a lot more noticeable.

• Make your home a more hygienic environment by removing bacteria, dust mites, mould, dirt and much more • Remove allergens from carpet to help ease hay fever. For all those summer sufferers • Remove stains, without causing more damage. Blyth's supply cleaning services to both the domestic and commercial market. With over 35 years' in the carpet and upholstery trade, they are also able to offer building and letting agents hand over cleans for commercial and domestic properties.

8 Reasons why you should choose Blyth’s to clean your soft furnishings: • Approved Carpet Cleaners by NCCA • Well Trained Operatives • Job satisfaction guaranteed • Fully insured • VAT registered • Top Class Service, with a smile • Fair Pricing • Over 35 Years' in the cleaning Industry Registered and approved by the experts at the NCCA, the company confidently advises customers that carpets and furnishings can be given a longer life span with the correct cleaning and stain guarding process, reducing unnecessary replacement costs. As a well-respected cleaning services provider, commercial customers have been impressed with the quality of cleanliness and the prompt, reliable and efficient service. Blyth Group, Blyth House, Hordern Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 0HS. Tel: 01902 745362 or visit www.theblythgroup.co.uk

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Have you ever walked into someone’s house and thought something doesn’t smell right? As you become used to your own house smells, you can become ‘nose blind’. Carpet acts as an air filter for the room it’s situated in. Regular cleaning will remove unwanted smells from the atmosphere. Blyth group suggests a professional clean every six months to keep your house fresh and carpets maintained.

Blyth recommends regular, professional carpet cleaning which can: • Extend the life of your carpet by rejuvenating the carpets worn/ flattened pile. • Remove hard to reach destructive soils such as grit. 26

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Blythwww.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk House, Hordern Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 0HS Tel: 01902 745362 www.theblythgroup.com 27

Fit, Fabulous and Over Forty

Gone are the days when turning forty meant saying goodbye to your youthful good looks and accepting the onset of everything middle age once represented: wrinkles, saggy skin, horrible hairstyles and even worse outfits. Thankfully it’s easier than ever to maintain a youthful look, no matter what your age. With so many beauty treatments on offer as well as a wide availability of cosmetic dentistry and surgery, not to mention plenty of information on diet and exercise, looking - and feeling - younger is easier than ever before. So, there are plenty of women who are changing what it means to be in their forties, like 47 year old grandmother and award-winning pole dancer, Sam Saunders: “To me age is just a number, I love

exercising and keeping fit as well as wearing gorgeous clothes and shoes, like my sky-high Christian Louboutin heels.” Everyone who knows Sam knows that she doesn’t look her age: “I try to maintain a positive attitude about getting older. I won’t stop doing anything that I enjoy just because I’m in my late forties.” And Sam has proved that being in your forties doesn’t mean that you can’t keep up with ladies in their twenties or thirties: “I started pole dancing four years ago at Body Image in Cheslyn Hay. I’m the oldest one who attends, but thanks to my fantastic instructor, Claire, I’ve been able to take part in competitions and win several trophies.” Sam came 2nd place in a contest against another dance school, was awarded ‘Audience Favourite’ and ‘Best Outfit’ - by a judging panel that included professional

pole dancers - and was presented with her most recent trophy in June for ‘Best Performance’. Although she’s kept really busy with her family and work life - Sam’s a Director in her husband’s company, Wolverhampton Skip Hire - she has still found time to workout at Stafford’s Gorrilla Training: “I’ve recently started attending Gorrilla training in Stafford with my eldest daughter, Emma - who’s 25 years old - we love going and doing the weights, it’s great.” And that’s not all of Sam’s exercise routine, she also runs, swims and cycles and her motivation certainly seems to have inspired the rest of her family: “Keeping fit is really important to all of us. My husband, Brian, and I have always run and cycled together and my daughters are really keen on exercising too. “My youngest daughter, Jade, who’s 20, has just had a gorgeous baby boy, Archie - he’s 9 weeks old. She can’t wait to get started with pole dancing lessons in a few weeks time.” Eating healthily is important to Sam too: “I try to eat healthily most of the time, although I do love to meet up with my friends and enjoy a meal out a few times a week.” And Sam certainly won’t be giving up what she’s doing any time soon: “I’m not willing to grow old gracefully and I certainly will never think that I can’t do something just because of my age.” We’ve certainly been inspired by Sam here at Wolverhampton West Magazine and we think she looks great.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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Recipe of the month

By Michael Peter Whitehurst Email: mike@takefood.co.uk

Chocolate Orange Tart with Crushed Meringue and Vanilla Cream Ingredients for the pastry • 175g Organic plain flour • 90g icing sugar • 30g raw organic cacao - available online • 140g chilled butter – diced • 2 medium egg yolks • 1 tbsp of ice cold water for the filling • 500g of dark chocolate min. 65% solids • 250g double cream • 2 tsp of orange extract • for the topping • dark chocolate to grate • orange zest • fennel seeds - powdered in the spice grinder • meringues - 2 egg whites and 130g of caster sugar • for the side • 200g of double cream • 50g of caster sugar • 1 tsp of good quality vanilla extract Equipment • spice grinder / pestle and mortar • rolling pin • magimix blade attachment and kitchen aid or similar with whisk attachment • 36x12cm fluted tart tin • baking beans or rice • blow torch • metal bowls • parchment paper • baking trays • 2 dessert spoons (meringue spooning) 30

Method Start by making the pastry. Sift the flour, icing sugar and cacao into a bowl or the bowl of your food processor. Add the butter and pulse or work with your fingers until it resembles sand. Now add in the 2 egg yolks and if needed add the water then pulse until a dough ball forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured work surface and bring together, wrap with cling film and leave for at least an hour or up to a day in the fridge. Once ready roll out to the thickness of about 1cm, roll up the pastry over the rolling pin and carefully lay over the tart tin. You may find that you will have to work the dough as though it were play-doh, moulding it into the corners and over the edges as it may break up due to the sugar but pushing it back together will work. Make sure the pastry hangs over the edges to allow for shrinkage. The trick is to cut off excess pastry once the case has dried out in the oven. Cut out parchment paper and push into the corners and fill with baking beans or rice and bake at 170°C / mk 3 for 30 minutes then remove the parchment and beans or rice to allow the base to dry out in the oven and become crisp – about a further 20 minutes. Once your tart case is ready allow to cool and get on with the filling. Melt the cream and chocolate together over a pan of simmering water – make sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water in the pan. Stir rapidly once melted to create a smooth shiny ganache, stir in the orange extract and zest and pour into the tart case smoothing the top off with a palette knife. Set in the fridge for about 2/3 hours. While your tart is setting whisk 2 egg whites on high until stiff peaks ( 66g) then microwave 130g of caster sugar on high for 3 minutes or until warm. Continue to beat the egg whites pouring in the warm sugar until a thick glossy meringue has formed – about 5 minutes. Spoon this out onto a parchment lined tray using the 2 spoons to make oval shapes/ quenelles and dry out in the grill part of your oven with the top and bottom heat turned on to 100°C – fan ovens ruin meringues in my experience. Now the tart is set and your meringues have dried out just enough to pick up get a blow torch and burn the tops as though for lemon meringue pie. Crush them over your tart, grate the chocolate and zest the orange. Sprinkle with cocoa powder, powdered fennel and icing sugar. Now whisk 200g of double cream with the sugar and vanilla extract and put in a bowl ready to serve. wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Kitchens with style – modern – contemporary – traditional Our Extensive range of kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms will enable us to create the room of your dreams. Our Computer Aided Designs will give you the opportunity to experience your new room prior to installation.

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

w w w. e a t o n k i t c h e n d e s i g n s . c o . u k 31

A Commitment to Quality It’s no surprise then to hear that many clients return: “We’re starting to find that some of our clients are now returning to us after 20 years, ready to choose a new bathroom suite. Because they were so impressed with the service they received and the quality of their bathroom, they won’t consider looking anywhere else.” Many customers feel reassured that the team is always on-hand if they have any problems: “It’s rare that clients have an issue, but if they do they can contact us anytime of the day, seven days a week. This provides extra peace of mind, and sets us apart from other retailers.”

Wall Heath Bathrooms have built an excellent reputation over the 23 years they’ve been in business, thanks to their unwavering commitment to quality and outstanding customer service. Co-owner Lorraine Taylor explains: “As a family-run company we’ve placed great emphasis on quality in every aspect of our business, from the bathroom fittings we sell, the workmanship that goes into installing them and the service that our clients receive.” With a range of fine bathroom suites that suit any home interior, the team are able to meet all of their client’s requirements. “Our bathrooms cater for all tastes and room sizes; we have extravagant, opulent designs as well as minimalist, chic suites. Our ranges are both practical and stylish.” Even the tiniest of spaces can be transformed: “With the correct fixtures and fittings it is possible for even the smallest bathroom to become a pleasure to use and stunning to look at.” 32

What’s more, Lorraine believes that everyone should be able to enjoy their bathroom: “Making the bathroom accessible for everyone, regardless of age or mobility is a high priority for us. We have a variety of products that are ideal for those who need an easy-to-use suite, and none of them compromise on style.” Unlike so many other companies, Wall Heath Bathrooms undertake every aspect of design and installation: “Bathroom Consultant, Lynne and I take care of all design and planning from the showroom. My husband, Steve, who is a highly skilled engineer, goes out to measure-up in our client’s homes.”

With an extensive portfolio of work available to view in the showroom, clients can get a look at a variety of completed jobs: “We photograph many of our bathrooms so that we can show customers the high standards we work to. We’re proud of the work we carry out and are delighted to be able to provide clients with a bathroom they’ll love for years to come.” For a free no obligation quote give us a call or pop into the showroom, we are open Monday to Friday 9am until 5pm and Saturday 9am until 4pm.

Only trusted and experienced installers are used to ensure every bathroom installation is carried out to the highest standards. Old bathroom suites are removed with the minimum of disruption before work begins installing the new suite. Clients often remark on our friendly and polite approach and comment on how tidy we work during installation. “We have a highly skilled tiler who has been with us since day one, when he is away no tiling work is undertaken.” wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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CODSALL & BILBROOK HISTORY SOCIETY Programme 2015 Meetings are held on the third Tuesday in the month at Codsall Village Hall, starting 7.45pm. Visitors are welcome, admission £2 on the night.

Tuesday Sept 15 Send Us Some Women: Dianne Mannering There were very few women aboard the first fleet which sailed to Australia in 1787. The Governor wrote home to ask the authorities to send some out. Newgate prison was bursting with women and so the Lady Julian set sail in July 1789 with a reluctant cargo. This is the amazing story of the voyage and how these women helped to found Australia. Dianne is a professional writer and speaker. Codsall Village Hall 7.45pm. Visitors are welcome, admission £2 on the night.

Tuesday Oct 20 ‘Blood & Guts’ – Medicine & Surgery of the 16th/17th Century: Pat Bickford Mistress Pat, a volunteer at Moseley Old Hall for the last 25 years, enjoys entertaining and educating visitors by bringing to life 16th/17th Century medical procedures, medicines and cures. With authentic replica surgical instruments and her knowledge of herbs and remedies, tell her your ailments at your peril. Codsall Village Hall 7.45pm. Visitors are welcome, admission £2 on the night.

Tuesday Nov 17 Four Centuries at the Lion Hotel, Shrewsbury: John Butterworth MBE John was awarded his MBE in recognition of his services to

Happy Snappers

Digital Photo Competition 2015

The Festival committee is pleased to announce the return of our popular photographic competition for the 2016 Festival.

So grab your digital camera or your mobile phone, get out and go “snappy”!

journalism and charity. He was editor of the Shrewsbury Chronicle for 12 years and is now the editor of the Black Country Bugle. He will be exploring the life of the county town’s premier hotel. Codsall Village Hall 7.45pm. Visitors are welcome, admission £2 on the night.

Tuesday Dec 15 Short AGM / Christmas Past & Present: Patricia Boyd Pat is well known for her research on some of our local historic houses. In this light hearted talk she looks at the history of Christmas customs, how we celebrate them and why. Mulled wine will be served in the interval. Codsall Village Hall 7.45pm. Visitors are welcome, admission £2 on the night.

Closing date for entries: midnight December 31st 2015 All entries must be submitted by email to: ccafcompetition@gmail. com after 1st October 2015 For full information, including the important competition rules, please go to www.codsallartsfestival.org.uk or email us direct at: codsallartsfestival@gmail.com and we will email them to you for you to download.

Open to local residents of all ages and skills. Winners’ pictures will be exhibited for public viewing in various locations during the 2016 Festival. Prizes for the winners awarded on Community Day, 12th March 2016. 34

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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

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Kitchen and Bedroom Technique

Excellence All Round 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.”

Wolverhampton-based family-run business, Kitchen and Bedroom Technique, has been transforming the homes of its clients since 1982.

or suit their requirements. We want our customers to enjoy their new room and be completely satisfied.”

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.

Owner, Sue, 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.

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.

And it’s this honest approach that has seen the company set itself apart from the competition.

“We don’t sell any poor quality or cheap products 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

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?

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 36

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Specialists in the design and complete installation of fitted kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms

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

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never seen anything quite like it before. I like to make clocks In the Steampunk style – all the brass and gearing going to look like some strange Victorian contraption, but functional as a clock. I’ve sent clocks all over the world, Singapore, Australia, USA and Canada; each one individual and a small work of art in its own right!

Back in the early days before the modern invention of the LED and LCD screen, early electronic gadgets used Nixie tubes to display information. You may remember seeing the distinctive orange glow on old petrol pumps or weigh scales. Long forgotten and many years out of production, there is a growing interest in these old pieces of technology. Looking like radio valves in appearance, these little glass tubes have all the digits from

0-9 inside stacked up on top of each other, which can glow when an electrical charge is applied. A new use for these tubes is making decorative clocks, which is what I do. I take old or obsolete equipment, and convert into very unusual and unique timepieces. Nothing is new, all the casings are vintage test meters or old wooden boxes. I’ve been making these in my spare bedroom in Coven for a couple of years now and it has developed into quite an intensive hobby, as people then discover them online and then enquire as they have

Should you wish to commission a clock, send Paul an email, or call on 01902 703590 (evening only) and he’ll be happy to help you out. www.bad-dog-designs.co.uk paul@bad-dog-designs.co.uk

Specialists in all types of Blinds Vertical - Fabric, Wood and PVC Venetian - Wood & Aluminium Rollers Including Blackout • Awnings and Canopies Romans • Woodweave • Velux • Conservatory Blinds

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wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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Win a meal for two at This month we have teamed up with Bravaccio’s, Tettenhall, to give one lucky reader the chance to win a meal for two from ‘Bully’s Mid-week Hat trick Special menu’ including a bottle of house wine. Bravaccio's Italian restaurant on Upper Green Tettenhall is scoring with diners. As well as retaining

its core Italian menu, Bravaccio’s (loosely meaning ‘bully’s' in Italian) has diversified into offering more traditional English dishes, including a Sunday Roast starting at only £6.95 and 3 course mid-week specials menu costing just £11.95.

Already such a firm favourite with the restaurant’s regular customers, Sunday lunch is strictly a must-book-in-advance event. There’s also 20% off the a la carte menu on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

For reservations, please call: 01902 756052. 4a Upper Green, Tettenhall. www.bravaccios.co.uk

To enter simply answer the following question:

What does Bravaccio's loosely mean in Italian? 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. Entries to be received by Friday 2nd October 2015 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 21 years or older. No cash or alternative prize will be given. Prize valid Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday evenings subject to availability. Prize to be redeemed by Thursday 19th November 2015. All entries will be forwarded to Bravaccio’s unless requested otherwise.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

• Curved Glass • Glass Balustrade & Balconies • Glass Partitions • Glass Doors, Patio Doors, Bi-fold Doors • Shop Fronts, Canopies & Entrance Glass Tech Alum Systems Limited Unit 10 Rumer Hill Business Estate Rumer Hill Road Cannock Staffordshire WS11 0ET www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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The Chasewood brand of furniture has been m a n u f a c t u red in Staffordshire for over 20 years.

As a family business we have been designing, creating and installing beautiful fitted furniture throughout the UK offering a reliable and friendly service. In July 2015 we opened our new showroom in Hednesford alongside our production facility. Making the most of even the smallest space is what makes our fitted furniture so utterly desirable. Our innovative storage solutions provide a place for most household items, ensuring the 44

interiors of your furniture look immaculate open or closed. We will carefully consider the style of your room and the atmosphere you wish to create, providing creative solutions for any awkward corners, uneven floors or sloping ceilings. Our professional team will create a design tailored to your needs and lifestyle. Your furniture will be manufactured in our Hednesford factory by our cabinet makers, some having over 30 years' experience. Our expert installation teams will then skilfully install your new furniture in your home.

At Chasewood we also offer a huge range of free standing furniture available to view online. Visit chasewood-furniture.co.uk to view a wide range of designs and finishes to spark the imagination. To arrange for a designer to visit your home and carry out a free survey and offer advice and discuss design solutions, please call Freephone 0800 316 1078. Alternatively you can visit our website to view products and book online. Our stylish Hednesford showroom is open to the public 6 days a week: Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3pm.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

50% Sale on selected ranges

New Showroom Now Open Visit our website or call for details. New ranges on display.

Freephone : 0800 316 1078 Visit our website: chasewood-furniture.co.uk Visit our online shop: furniture-for-bedrooms.co.uk 124 Anglesey Business Park, Littleworth Road, Hednesford WS12 1NR www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

10 Year Guarantee Call for a Free Home Visit Call for a Free Brochure 45

Competition Two lucky winners can each win two tickets to see BRAVE NEW WORLD on Tuesday 3rd November at 7.30pm at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. Aldous Huxley’s ingenious fantasy of the future, written in 1932, is given extraordinary life in this world premiere adaptation by award-winning playwright Dawn King with original score by These New Puritans, starring SOPHIE WARD. Join us on an emotional rollercoaster journey into a future which sheds a blazing light on the present. Witness the horrors of a genetically engineered class system, A World State where People are always happy; where they get what they want, and they never want what they can’t have. Discover the consequence of living in a world where love and empathy have given way to lust and pleasure. A world without religion or war. A world where Community, Identity, Stability is the world state motto And find out what happens when this stability is threatened As the beautiful young Lenina learns the pain of love And the handsome young John gives in to the love of pain Does the World Controller lose control? Or does Lenina finally find her voice?

Call the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Box Office for more information on 01902 42 92 12 or please visit www.grandtheatre.co.uk

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and send it on a postcard with your name, address and telephone number to Wolverhampton West magazine or email info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk In what year was the original novel, Brave New World, written? A) 1923 B) 1932 C) 1947 D) 1984 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 Thursday 15th October 2015. 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 | september 2015

Castle Street, Dudley Centre, DY1 1LA Tel: 01384 234620 Unit, 26, Vanguard Way, Shrewsbury, SY1 3TG Tel: 01743 463261 3 Riverside, Stafford, ST16 3PT Tel: 01785 223338 Macrome Road, Claregate, Wolverhampton, WV6 9HD Tel: 01902 752764 Townsend Place, Kingswinford Centre, DY6 9JA Tel: 01384 271812 Salop Street, Wolverhampton, WV3 0RX Tel: 01902 429060 Castle Street, Hadley, Telford TF1 6GJ Tel: 01952 257007 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Joel Richards

Trophy Keith Haynes is the first recipient of a trophy to honour the memory of Tunisia massacre victim Joel Richards.

Bilston Youth Partnership League have created the Joel Richards Trophy to be awarded for service to young referees. Nineteen-year-old Joel was himself a budding referee. Keith is a member of the Wolverhampton Referees’ Association and acts as a mentor to young referees. He is also a member of the JW Hunt Cup committee which stages the annual football competition in aid of the Beacon Centre for the Blind. Another committee man, Walter Wakeman, with 30 years’ service to the competition first as secretary and then as treasurer, is to be honoured with a celebration evening at Goodyear Pavilion in September.

Local pupils

sent off in style

Walter Wakeman (left) and Joel Richards Trophy winner Keith Haynes

Other football organisations in the Wolverhampton area are helping stage the event for Walter who also served the Wolverhampton Referees’ Association as referee’s instructor for 20 years. At their AGM, the Hunt Cup committee voted to give £8,000 to the Beacon Centre and

were thanked by Beacon chief executive Arwyn Jones. Next year marks the 90th anniversary of the Hunt Cup’s foundation and Arwyn wished the competition continued success and thanked the committee members for the work they do, all of them volunteers.

House to the Albert Lawn Tennis Club via a photo opportunity at Dunstall Race Course. The year 6 children after entering the venue on a red carpet, which was donated by Unique Ideas, then partied until 10pm. Entertainment including a selfie booth with Matt Thomson Photography on hand to capture those special moments and a visit from the local ice cream man.

Finally Parents and siblings were invited to celebrate this important milestone as a family.

Parents at Claregate Primary School in Tettenhall Wolverhampton sent their year 6 off in style on Saturday 18th July. The event, organised by Tina Temple with help from other parents, including Ally Davies, Nicolina Almaio, Lisa Terry and Tracey Steventon, started with the whole year travelling in style from the Claregate Public 48

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Spruce up your carpets for autumn

with Touch-Dry Touch-Dry Ltd are a Wolverhampton based, family run business, specialising in providing a thorough ‘Dry’ deep down clean for your carpets, rugs and upholstery.

Their success has always been based on giving the customer the most professional and costeffective service available and the percentage of customer referrals

and returning customers year after year is testimony enough to the level of customer care they achieve.

Touch-Dry specialise in the Host® Dry Carpet Cleaning System, which is an effective method for deep cleaning carpets successfully in homes and businesses. The big advantage to this system is that carpets are ready to walk on immediately following the clean. Their cleaning system is completely safe and eco-friendly, without the inconvenience of getting your carpet wet and is the perfect alternative to the traditional wet-cleans which can have its short-comings with long drying times, shrinkage and wick back. The cleaning process ensures there is no mould or mildew risks from wet carpets and is totally safe to use around the home. Touch-Dry also offer one of the safest upholstery cleaning services available, which is

super-fast drying, gives a fresh new appearance to all types of upholstery and leather. A simple and fast method for deep cleaning your upholstered furniture anytime without the inconvenience of getting it wet. Great for cleaning all types of fabrics including velvet, jacquard, weaves, tapestry, brocades and leather.

Both processes are completely safe to children and pets, is eco-friendly and there is no risk of shrinkage to your carpets or upholstery. Touch-Dry not only provide a quality service in your home, but are the preferred choice for many local businesses, who often require a quick turn-a–round for their office, restaurant or function room. If you want a clean carpet contact Dean on 01902 658543 or email info@touchdrycleaning.co.uk www.touchdrycleaning.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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Geo e Davies elecTrical suppliers

M Jackson & Son 01902 “A complete 24hr service from my family to yours”

Independent Family

Est. 1959… This is a family business now run by the Grandson of original founder.

Funeral Directors of Wolverhampton

We have the largest selection of light bulbs locally; from Pygmy bulbs to the latest LED.

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The County’s premier supplier of logs Manor Farm Logs pride themselves on being reliable suppliers of the finest quality seasoned and unseasoned hardwood logs time and time again.

of renewable and sustainable heating. Timber is all sourced from carefully well-managed, sustainable local British woodlands reducing the carbon footprint of this form of fuel even further.

Manor Farm Logs will deliver direct to your home, throughout the Midlands, all year round. They aim to deliver within 2-3 days of receiving your order.

Their logs are suitable for both open and closed wood-burning fires. They aim to provide outstanding customer service time after time with many existing customers being with them for many years.

Logs are sold by the cubic metre so you know how much you’re getting each and every time and the more cubic metres you order the cheaper it gets and loads can even be split with your neighbour reducing the cost further. Manor Farm logs are responsible suppliers 52

Please contact them if you need any information. They are happy to advise what product is best for you, money saving tips, the best storage solutions and provide you with a competitive quote.

Affordable warmth and carbon neutral heating just a phone call away

01952 691 731 07912 638 452 www.manorfarmlogs.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

the solution to your building requirements

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Wolverhampton Police We are putting the brakes on vehicle crime!

crime is committed by opportunists who are put off by simple and cheap security precautions.

The chance of becoming a vehicle crime victim in Wolverhampton is incredibly low, however by following our simple advice you can reduce these chances even further. It may be difficult to protect your car from a determined, professional thief but most car

Property mark gadgets like Sat Navs with your postcode and house number and register the serial numbers for FREE on Immobilise.

Top 5 Quick Tips: 1. Lock your vehicle 2. Remove all valuables 3. Don’t leave keys in the ignition

Passwords are the first line of defence against cyber criminals. It’s crucial to pick strong passwords that are different for each of your important accounts and it is good practice to update your passwords regularly. Here’s a few tips: Use a unique password for each of your important accounts like email and 54

Use a long password made up of numbers, letters and symbols don’t use 123456 or password. Try to combine upper and lower case letters with numbers and alphanumeric characters. e.g. P@55w0rD is better than password There is software that you can download for free to keep all your passwords. You just use one very secure password to access them all. Some are available so you can access them over the internet.

• If possible, have available full details of the make, model and registration number of the vehicle

Don’t give criminals a chance – remember to remove it or lose it. It really is that simple when it comes to keeping your car and belongings safe.

5. Park in secure, well lit, open areas

online banking - don’t use the same password for banking as you would for a discussion forum. If you really have to, write them down, but keep it in a safe place.

• Contact the Police as soon as possible – call 101 and ask for your local station.

• Make a list of any property stolen from the vehicle, giving as many details as possible

4. Remove Sat Nav suction marks

Password safety

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a local tuition partnership judged to be ‘Outstanding’ according to Ofsted criteria Please call us to discuss: 11+ tuition English GCSE tuition Our experience: Heads of Departments, exam markers, rated as ‘Outstanding’ teachers and proven track record of success with 22 years of teaching experience For further details call 07525 206 388 or email learnmore4a@hotmail.co.uk

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In your garden

Safe Screen Experienced gardener offering a complete garden maintenance service Lawn Mowing, Weeding, Tending Borders, Hedge Trimming, Pruning, Garden Clearances, Driveway Jet washing

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Meshes in fibre glass stainless steel, aluminium solar protection & pollen stop.

Please call Tom

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wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

The New K9000 Dog Wash

at Codsall and Wergs Garden Centre Thanks to its custom-made floor coating there’s no chance of your dog slipping whilst in the unit, a unique hair filtration system means that the tub stays clean at all times and a see-through window ensures that smaller dogs don’t feel claustrophobic.

Say goodbye to smelly pooches, muddy paw prints and mess thanks to a fantastic new selfserve dog wash that’s just been installed at Codsall and Wergs Garden Centre’s pet department. The K9000 provides a new, easy way to wash your dog, whilst ensuring complete comfort for your precious pooch.

Your pooch will enjoy a hot water wash in the K9000, although the temperature is carefully controlled at all times. The system’s dryer function has two controls, one that’s designed for drying short haired dogs and one for long haired pooches, so each will experience a stream of comfortably warm air. And what’s more, both the temperature of the water and the air can be adjusted to suit either summer or winter weather conditions. Codsall and Wergs’ General Manager, Denise Eloor, explains: “Adding the K9000 to our pet department seemed like a natural thing to do as we’ve always welcomed dogs into

the garden centre. We’re really pleased to be able to support our dog owning customers by offering them this great facility. “We’re always open to new ideas here at Codsall and Wergs and we’re happy to be the first garden centre to install a K9000.” And dog owners will be delighted to hear that there’s even a special discounted rate on offer: “The recommended retail price for a wash is £10, but we’re charging only £7.” So, there really has never been a better time to try the K9000 and treat yourself - and your precious pooch - to a hassle-free bath time experience this autumn.

SPECIAL OFFER FOR WOLVERHAMPTON WEST MAGAZINE READERS ONLY. PRESENT THIS PAGE AND RECEIVE A FURTHER £1 OFF YOUR DOG WASH DURING SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER 2015.

Large outdoor plant & shrub display Contempory range of garden furniture Outdoor living accessories Newly stocked gift department Garden sundries, tools & accessories Pets corner - pets food & accessories Cards & gift wrap Colourful display of houseplants Open 7 days a week

We look forward to seeing you soon! Wergs Hall Road, Codsall, Wolverhampton, WV8 2HJ

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quality crafted outdoor furniture

We supply a wide variety of quality crafted outdoor furniture, for the garden, patio and conservatory, all finished to the highest standards • • • •

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www.newgardenfurniture.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

By Steve Tonks, General Manager at Boningale Garden Creations

TRADITIONAL VS CONTEMPORARY GARDENS When you think about how your perfect garden should look, is it a traditional garden, packed with flowers? Or do you favour the clean lines of a contemporary space?

Can you achieve those styles in your outdoor space? When thinking about good garden design, it’s less about what’s in fashion and more about what would look best in your surroundings and making the most of the aspect and

soil conditions. Importantly – it’s also about what fits into your lifestyle.

Traditional garden Whether you have a large garden that can accommodate formal styling, elaborate statues and water features or a small space that would suit a cottage or country garden style, choosing a traditional style garden provides timeless appeal. For the more formal approach, maintaining a classical style is key. That means pristine manicured lawns, formal arrangements of planting, clustered in colour blocks, geometric shapes, and distinctive focal points. A cottage garden, however, is a departure from the refinement of a formal garden and is an abundance of colour and planting. The borders are far less contrived and stylised – think instead annuals and old

fashioned perennials cascading over paths, filling every inch of space with scented flowers is the look you are after. Complement the planting with birdbaths, tubs and charming furniture.

Contemporary Calming and uncluttered – the contemporary garden is a highly structured and carefully managed space that provides a sense of order through its extensive use of hard landscaping materials – including gravel, stones, and hard wood – to attain a clean look. Use minimum planting and select specimens that are architectural: grasses, bamboos and plants such as mountain flax. Good use of lighting is also crucial for the minimalist contemporary garden.

For design inspiration call our team on 01902 376500 or visit www.boningale-garden-creations.co.uk

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

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@boningalegarden

Autumn in the

garden

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

in very hot weather, give good ventilation and ideally give a foliar spray of calcium (Chempak do a trace element Calcium pack) Pick early apples and pears as they become ripe. Eat the earlier varieties straight away, storing later ripening ones for later use. Cover autumn fruiting raspberries against birds. The old fruiting canes can be pruned out during the winter months as the autumn varieties fruit on new season’s growth each year.

If we get a nice spell of weather through August and into the beginning of September the flowering season of summer bedding and perennials will continue into early autumn. The range of new varieties of tried and tested herbaceous perennials has expanded quickly over the last few years with the introduction of new foxgloves, delphiniums and Lupins alongside the newer plants of perennial Salvia, Gaura and Heuchera - they make a cost effective alternative to summer bedding. Buying perennials from spring through to autumn will give colour for many months of the year.

environment. Hessian sacks that are available from garden centres are ideal for this purpose. I’ve been asked several times about blossom end rot on tomatoes recently. This is a physiological disorder and can be worse when we get days of high humidity which limits the amount of water taken up by the plant roots. It is also encouraged by calcium deficiency, whilst most composts don’t lack calcium they do need regular watering to enable it to be taken up by the roots and then to the fruit. Make sure plants are watered several times a day

Buy prepared hyacinth bulbs for Christmas flowering and plant them in bowls with Bulb Compost by mid-September. Give them a drink and put in a cool, dark place, bringing gradually into the light and warmth once the shoots are approx 3cm high. It’s worth mentioning that by the end of this year there will be quite a few garden weed killers, insecticides and fungicides no longer available in garden centres. At the moment it seems that there will be no products available for any diseases of fruit trees. It therefore makes it all the more important to use a winter wash on fruit trees once foliage has dropped.

Tomato with blossom end rot

Once borders have been cleared of summer bedding, you can replant with winter pansies, violas, sweet williams and wallflowers. Hopefully if the weather has been moist we’ll have some of our own field grown wallflowers available from the end of September – they give excellent value for money- flowering in the spring with the bulbs. 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 60

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Allan Bennett: A Cut Above

More and more discerning people these days are turning their attention to longstanding traditions that appear to be under threat.

The family butcher - for years the mainstay of the weekly shop and sustainer of this country's morale throughout the generations - is, like so many other things, threatened by the tidal wave of changes brought about by the supermarket culture. As every good housewife used to know, there is no better friend when it comes to finding the ideal cut at the ideal price, than the aproned man or woman on the other side of the counter.

awards including The Lifetime Achievement Award (The supreme accolade.) from the Master of The Worshipful Company of Butchers is called upon to judge far and wide. Often regarded as 'The Lord Chief Justice of Meat' and endearingly known to close friends as 'Mr Sausage', Allan is always ready to help and advise those upon whom he has passed judgement, sharing his special techniques in the interests of better quality for all. It's no wonder that he is in the Guild of Q Butchers.

Allan's Codsall shop reflects his success and enthusiasm, with not only artistic displays of meat products, but with the many trophies won, together with photographs of celebrities presenting them to him. So if you want to experience the traditional delights of this family-run butchers, pop in soon and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll never want to take the easy option of grabbing meat from the supermarket shelf again.

When the butcher in question is an award winning 'champion of champions' you know right away that he's 'just the ticket'. Allan Bennett is a Codsall butcher renowned for the outstanding quality of his meat, sausages and pies. Going to bed and waking up with meat on his mind, it's not surprising that in a career spanning over half a century, Allan - as proud holder of prestigious national and international

Allan receiving one of his many awards

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.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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

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 2015! 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 13th September 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 has been moved back just an hour to 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 | september 2015

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Wolverhampton Society

of Artists

Wolverhampton Society of Artists was originally known in 1919 as the New Arts Circle. It then changed its names once more to become in 1938, The Wolverhampton Society of Artists.

Wolverhampton has a long history of group activity in art and its application. From 1885 for well over twenty years, Wolverhampton Sketching Club held Annual Exhibitions in the newly built Wolverhampton Art Gallery, which were widely reported in the press to considerable acclaim. The First World War curtailed the activities of the earlier Sketching Club. In 1919, a new venture by a group of committed individuals including professional artists saw the foundation of Wolverhampton New Art Circle which later, in 1938, changed its name to Wolverhampton Society of Artists. From the outset it aimed for very high standards in all aspects of the visual arts. The Society grew in numbers and stature and was soon holding exhibitions in Wolverhampton Art Gallery, which continued annually until 2004 when they were interrupted by the building of a major extension to the gallery. The exhibitions were resumed in 2007 and are now a biennial feature in the galleryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programme.

Rebecca in the Red Dress II by Annette Hughes. Acrylic

Over the years, the society has had many eminent members among whom were Robert Emerson, Edwin Butler-Bayliss, Percy Shakespeare and Sir Charles Wheeler, who became the President of the Royal Academy. In more recent times, the society has broadened its activities to include monthly lectures and demonstrations, sketch-night sessions with a model, painting days in the field, tutored workshops, visits to art-related venues and the production of its magazine, "The Limner".

Corbiere By Mark Whitehouse. Oil on canvas

The society encourages work in a wide range of styles and media. Our members are pro-active across the region and further afield. Some of our professional members have exhibited abroad and have work in collections in the USA, Canada, Europe and China. The Society currently has a website:

www.wsa-artists.com We also have a Facebook page.

Bend in the Country Lane by David Hammond Mixed media

Dreamy by Clare Sherwen. Collagraph Print

First Oil by Sarah Stokes. Oil

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

The Riches BeneaTh Us:

The Black countr y ’s amazing Rocks

A 3D scan made of a fossil of Eophrynus Prestvicii shows its features in incredible detail (Courtesy Russell Garwood)

Bantock House Museum Many people don’t know that the basement of Wolverhampton Art Gallery is home to a collection of thousands of geological objects. Most of them were left to the city in a 1911 bequest by Scottish geologist Doctor John Fraser, who lived in the city. Now, a new exhibition, ‘The Riches Beneath Us: The Black Country’s Amazing Rocks’ at Bantock House Museum, highlights objects from the collection which have a connection to the Black Country and shows how the former collieries and limestone quarries in particular contributed to the assembly of an astounding group of fossils. A stunningly rare fossil – the 315 million-year-old ‘Coseley Spider’ – is one of the stars of the exhibition. Never shown in the city before, the internationally important fossilised creature, which was discovered near Coseley, is an incredible example of the early evolution of spiders, say experts. The Coseley Spider is currently on loan to Bantock House Museum from the Lapworth Museum of Geology based at the University of Birmingham and is one of only two examples of the species Eophrynus Prestvicii ever found. Experts say the first was described in 1837 and the second was discovered in 1871 at the former Parkfields Colliery and subsequently given to the Lapworth collection. Other rare finds from the city’s collection will also feature in the show. These include a fossilised

leaf which fell from a prehistoric tree more than 300 million years ago and was perfectly preserved in ironstone and a 165-millionyear-old tooth from one of the Jurassic world’s most vicious predators, the Plesiosaur. The exhibition will feature rocks from the Carboniferous Period, a term geologists use to define a particular stage in the development of the earth between 360 and 300 million years ago. The Carboniferous takes its name from coal, which formed as a result of the decay of vast tropical forests, and is another reminder that the climate of what is now the English Midlands hasn’t always been as it is today. Wolverhampton’s collection of Carboniferous ferns fossilised in ironstone is one of the best in the world, perhaps second only to those collected at Mazon Creek in the United States. The city’s own collection originates in the Parkfield Colliery, previously part of Coseley. Many of the limestone fossils in the exhibition, such as trilobites – an extinct marine invertebrate – were recovered from Black Country limestone quarries. One trilobite in particular was found so commonly by mine workers that it became know as ‘The Dudley Bug’ or ‘Dudley Locust’ and featured on the town’s coat of arms. The limestone was also such a rich source of fossils that

The fossil of the 315-million year-old arachnid found in 1871 and nicknamed ‘The Coseley Spider’ (Courtesy The Lapworth Museum of Geology)

A fossil trilobite beautifully preserved in limestone

This well-preserved fern, fossilised over 310 million years in grey siltstone, is from an age before the dinosaurs

most of the specimens used to define what is known now by geologists as the Silurian Period (444-419 million years ago) came from the Black Country.

The Black Country, where these amazing rocks and fossils have been found, is currently seeking international recognition by becoming part of the global Geopark Network for special world-class landscapes. For more information about the Black Country Geopark go to www.blackcountrygeopark.org.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Poxon’s Butchers of Castlecroft Specialists in high quality British meat for over 50 years

The friendly team at Poxons

For more than half a century, Poxon’s Butchers of Castlecroft have been supplying the local community with only the highest quality fresh British meat, sourced direct from local farms. The family-run business began life in 1957 when Dennis Poxon opened the shop in Windmill Lane. Some 30 years later his son, Nigel, took over the company after training at Brierley Hill’s once prominent meat

product manufacturer, Marsh and Baxter.

beef, poultry or game to meet their customers’ requirements.

Already well known for their delicious homemade pies and sausages, Nigel built new pie and sausage rooms to meet with their ever growing customer demand.

And, you can always guarantee that you’ll find the best seasonal meat at the butchers too: “Our early spring lamb arrives in February and our free range turkeys are with us in time for Christmas.”

Nigel explains: “Our pies and sausages have always been made on the premises, ever since we introduced them to the shop in the 1970’s. “We make 21 different varieties of sausage in total, including one that’s gluten free.” In addition to the sausage, there’s a delicious choice of savoury pies, scotch eggs, pasties and even ready meals: “Only the finest ingredients go into our products.” All of Poxon’s locally sourced meat is hung in the traditional way before being prepared into retail cuts of meat. The team are always more than happy to cut their lamb, pork,

The Poxon’s team is made up of nine members of staff, who are led by Manager, Philip Ward. “Philip has been with us for over 30 years and does a great job managing all aspects of the business. I’m lucky to have a great team of staff working for me.” Ten years ago Poxon’s joined the prestigious Q Guild of Butchers: “We’re pleased to be a Q Guild butchers, it’s an organisation that is widely recognised and highly regarded both in the trade and by consumers.” So, why not try something different for dinner tonight and pay a visit to Poxon’s?

96 Windmill Lane, Castlecroft, Wolverhampton WV3 8HG

Quality Butchers Specialists in high quality British meat for over 50 years Comprehensive range of pork pies using the finest ingredients All pies and sausages made exclusively on the premises.

Ready cooked meals – beef lasagne, chicken curry, cottage pies and hot pots. We also make sweet pies. Gluten free and other special orders available upon request.

Tel: 01902 761693

www.poxonsbutchers.co.uk

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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The Swan Centre, Bridgnorthwest Road, Wolverhampton, wolverhampton magazine | september WV6 2015 8AE

GINO D’ACAMPO’S

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O N T U E S D AY 3 R D N O V E M B E R Chef, TV personality and best-selling author Gino D’Acampo is touring the UK with live stage shows which will blend his love of Italy, some delicious signature dishes and audience participation, in a typically lively theatre show this autumn.

their paces as selected fans are invited to join him on stage. One thing is for sure with Gino…you can expect the unexpected!

Fans of Gino will love the live theatre show, which will feature a mix of cookery, Italian food tips and the chance to get up close and personal with the man himself. It promises to be

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Fun-loving Gino will take the audience on a journey through Italy, demonstrating how to cook some of his favourite dishes from his popular series, Gino’s Italian Escape – a third series of which will be on our screens later this year. He also plans to put audience members through

Gino regularly appears on ITV’s This Morning and has presented two series of Gino’s Italian Escape, with a third scheduled for November this year. Each series is also accompanied by a book documenting the ingredients and mouth-watering recipes from each show.

Exciting times ahead at

The Vineyards Autumn 2015 marks the beginning of exciting times at Halfpenny Green Vineyards.

As mentioned in our last issue, the shop is currently being extended and is due to be open to the public during the season. In the meantime, why not pop along and take a look at the shop in its current format and sample our delicious range of cheeses, wines and preserves as part of the large variety of foods available.

Clive and Winery Manager Ben, travelled to London to collect the awards and celebrate the significant achievements of The Vineyards. If you are looking for the perfect place to hold an event, why not consider the Wine House Function Room. Proving very popular for birthdays, group meetings, as well as corporate events the site

has dates available for booking. From 2016, the function room will be hosting wedding receptions, providing the perfect setting for your special day. Visit www. halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk for details of how to book. If you want to celebrate in style but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to hold a large gathering, book one of the Vineyards vintage high teas. This is the perfect way to spend a birthday, enjoying fine food in beautiful surroundings. Booking is essential, see the website or phone 01384 221122. So head down to the Vineyards and see all that is on offer this season.

One item you might like to purchase is the 2014 Mercia which has been released to the public and is becoming a very popular buy thanks to it winning a silver medal at the United Kingdom Vineyard Association Wine of the Year Competition. On top of this, the Vineyards won an additional five awards including two more silver medals (for Long Acre 2014 and Sparkling White 2013) and a bronze for their Sparkling Pink 2013. Owner

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OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9.30AM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5.00PM Tel: 01384 221122 Email: sales@halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk 72

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Eating Out and Entertainment

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Christmas at Molineux Party packages now available for November and December 2015 Please call our Christmas Party bookings team on: 0871 222 2220 (Option 5) or email: christmas@wolves.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Join us for some of our popular December and January Events… Party Nights

Take your pick from one of our fabulous party nights available on a range of dates. Whether there is a small group or you are organising a large affair, Patshull Park Hotel is the perfect place for you to celebrate 2015 in style. The night includes a three course meal and disco until early hours of the morning.

from £21.00 per person

80s Disco Party Night Thursday 10th December

Why not bring your party to our party? Prepare to be taken back to classic timeless magic and relive the sounds of the 80s, as you step out in style for a sensational night at Patshull Park Hotel. Dance the night away and enjoy a blast from the past with a festive three course meal and disco until late.

£23.00 per person

Take That Tribute Night Thursday 17th December

Relighting your fire once again, it’s our amazing Take That Tribute Act. The fantastic evening includes a delicious three course meal, live entertainment and disco until 1am.

£25.00 per person Great location, convenient to J3 M54 and only 20 minutes from the centre of Wolverhampton and Telford.

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P a t t i n g h a m , N r Wo l v e r h a m p t o n W V 6 7 H R T: 01902 700100 E: sales@patshull-park.co.uk www.patshull-park.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Sir Jack’s

Restaurant

Molineux

By Rob Taylor

The expression “best seat in the house” has never been more apt. It evokes thoughts of VIPs in Wimbledon’s Royal Box, the expressionless monarchic incumbents in the Queen’s Box at the Royal Albert Hall or celebrities, like Beyonce and Jay Z, ringside at the recent Mayweather/Pacquiao fight. These seats are almost exclusively occupied by the great and the good; the glitterati; the corporate cognoscenti, aren’t they? Except right now, nothing could be further from the truth, because it is I, your humble Wolverhampton West foodie, who tonight occupies the chair of choice. It is I who is situated in the heart of Molineux Stadium, occupying a central pitch-facing position in the Billy Wright Stand. And you could be sitting here as well.

For tonight I am dining in Sir Jack’s Restaurant: a restaurant that enjoys an enviable reputation for fine dining and excellent service, complete with awardwinning chefs, along with one hell of a view. And it’s one amazing seat that is for sale at a price that doesn’t require you to re-mortgage your house. In fact anyone can sit anywhere within this fabulous restaurant and enjoy just the same view, because owing to its unique configuration, there is no real “best seat”; such is the panoramic splendour across the immaculately-kept acreage of turf. Now maybe it’s the Wolves’ fan in me, but dining on hallowed ground such as this is an almost religious experience. Like Catholic pilgrims ascending the

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

steps into St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, I am spellbound; head perma-turned pitch-side; mind agog, endlessly replaying Wolves’ greatest hits from the annals of my “Molineux memory”. Legends like Steve Bull in all his early nineties pomp – even when only envisaged in my mind’s eye – is enough to ordinarily command my full attention, however, since I am here wearing my restaurant reviewers’ – not football fanatics’ – hat, I’ll get straight to business. Sir Jack's is described on its website as being “the ideal place to celebrate any event, whether a small family gathering, a romantic meal for two or a lavish feast for up to 70.” So far I have to agree: the restaurant is modern and spacious, yet paradoxically intimate when in situ and aware of all the fine and delicate touches which enliven the dining tables and brighten the walls. Of course if you prefer a level of intimacy beyond this, Sir Jack’s also has many pitch-facing suites available for just you and your party to dine in complete privacy. Plus, as an added bonus for Wolves fans, club season ticket holders can enjoy a 10% discount on food. “Diners”, it continues, “enjoy an unforgettable evening with a selection of delectable dishes prepared by our chefs, led by Executive Chef John Zammit.” “With a sumptuous selection of starters, an incredible variety of main courses and delicious desserts available, the menu is sure to get your mouth watering. Made with only the finest freshlyprepared ingredients and served with pride, there is a setting and menu to meet every need, whether business or pleasure, intimate or extravagant.” So let’s see. First things first: starters, from the newly launched Autumn/Winter menu, which consist of ‘Hot Smoked Salmon Risotto, with Goats Curd BonBon’ (£7) and ‘Pressed Salt Beef, with Pickled Wild Mushrooms, Crisp bread, Wasabi’ (£6). My girlfriend Nicola’s salmon risotto, I am told, is stuffed to the gills with character. My beef is succulent and not overly salty; the pickled mushrooms are an expertly judged and fitting complement. Now to the mains: ‘Panchetta Rolled Pork, with Garlic and Thyme Butter Bean Casoulet, Parmentier, Mustard Frills’ (£13) for me; ‘Teriyaki and Sesame Tuna Loin, with Beetroot, Pineapple and Lemongrass; Cashews and Rice Noodles’ (£18) for Nicola. Both dishes arrive quickly and are piping hot, having been delivered by the friendly waiting staff. Special mention goes to the fine quality of the pork, which is both tender and tasty, but each dish is very well received. Attention to detail when presenting food is clearly a high priority here. The vegetables are cooked to perfection: zingy, fresh and crunchy. The tuna is, I’m told, “well-cooked and expertly juxtaposed with a fine array of interestinglyflavoured friends.” Both dishes are telltale of a capable and well-oiled kitchen staff. We both enjoy every morsel and now eagerly await the next course. Dessert is homemade ‘Iced White Chocolate Parfait, with Strawberry and a Beignet’ (£6) and a ‘Ginger Cake, with Rhubarb Textures’ (£5). The dishes call full-time on our visit. It’s a sweet and successful way with which to bring our dining to an end and leaves me in no doubt that tonight has been a resounding victory for the home team.

Open Thursday to Saturday evenings 6pm until 9.30pm last orders (flexible). Monday to Wednesday evenings for large parties. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

For further details or to book a table please call 08712 222225 or mobile 07866 764192 www.sirjacksrestaurant.co.uk www.corporatewolves.co.uk Sir Jacks Restaurant, Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, Waterloo Road, Wolverhampton, WV1 4QR. 77

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Eat in or take away

BAR & BISTRO www.3hammers.co.uk

50% OFF SUNDAY AND MONDAY EVENINGS 2 Courses, starter & mains or mains & sweet

Freshly cooked traditional food, vegetarian menu, childrens menu, specials board, popular ‘light-bite lunches’, 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. 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 info@3hammers.co.uk Situated on the 3 Hammers Golf Complex, Old Stafford Road, Coven, Nr Wolverhampton WV10 7PP

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Serving Fine Italian and English Cuisine including Traditional Black Country favourites

with master chef Mario and his enthusiastic team

BULLy’S MidWEEk hAT-TRick! 3 course meal for only £11.95 per person Choice menu of both Italian and English food or

20% OFF A La Carte menu

“Steve Bull invites you to come along and sample the delights of his delightful restaurant overlooking the Green in Tettenhall”

Now available Tuesday to Thursday evenings

OUR EVER POPULAR SUndAy LUnch

still from only £6.95 Bookings essential

To avoid disappointment please book:

Situated at:

T. 01902 756052 E. reservations@bravaccios.co.uk www.bravaccios.co.uk

4a Upper Green, Tettenhall WV6 8QQ Ample Free Parking

Wergs golf Club

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

What’s On at thE WERGs: Sat 26

Sept // 7pm

CorPorATe CHrIsTMAs PArTY

QuIZ NIgHT!

£10 per team maximum of 6 per team. Food available. Sat 31St Oct

WorD of MouTH Sat 5th Dec // 7pm ‘til late!

THe Wergs CHrIsTMAs PArTY £10 per ticket - Dance the night away with live act, disco & hog roast. Everyone welcome bring along all your friends and family! Dress code: smart casual.

The Wergs

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

www.wergsgolfclub.com

Fri 11th Dec // FrOm 6pm OnwarD

£25 per perSOn includes 3 course festive meal and entertainment. Looking for a works Christmas party or a few friends on a night out? The Wergs Christmas fayre packages are ideal! Complete with great festive food, live entertainment and disco on the night. Dress code: smart casual.

FrOm 7.30pm ‘til late

NeW YeArs eVe gAlA NIgHT

WITH Joe WHelAN Only £55 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!

For FUrTher inForMATion on GoLF, DininG or FUncTions or To MAKe A

booKinG pLeAse cALL

01902 742 225

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

standards – it’s all family – and I’m assured their contributions will serve to improve on my own high ideals and customers’ experience. “Most of our customers we know by name and we also know just how they like their dishes served and we can tailor our recipes to suit. “We also have up to 70 recipes that are not listed on our menu, if we listed them, others would try to copy them, but they must remain as ours. “I regularly go home to Bangladesh and visit the outlying towns like Jaflonge and Sylhet to pick new recipes and ideas that inspire. “It’s important to remain fresh in our approach, it gives us the edge and helps to keep customers coming back.” says Rafique.

Restaurateur Rafique – traditional recipes handed down through his family

Meet the boss:

Rafique is happy to let the food do the taking by John Nash

Before the open sign has been hung in the window, a small group of customers on a Thursday teatime are eagerly waiting to place orders at Wombourne Tandoori. Owner, Rafique Miah, greets each one by name and it’s clearly an indisputable fact that he’s the boss. The public face of a restaurant that regularly draws customers from 34 miles away in Shrewsbury and also has families visit from Cornwall and Port Talbot in south Wales, Rafique is the very public face of this extraordinarily good eatery. But the co-owner – he is one of four brothers involved in the business – is quick to point out that the only real celebrity of this top curry house serving authentic Bangladeshi dishes is the food. “Many of the recipes have been handed down to our family and are unique to us. My mother’s dishes 80

are served here and the recipes are a guarded secret,” he says. With a keen eye for detail and a fastidiousness about the customer experience, Rafique is fiercely proud of what his family have achieved in Wombourne. Celebrating its 25th year in the village square, the business has undergone some major changes over the years. “In 1989 the premises were used as a coffee shop and I bought it to open a restaurant. But I soon discovered there was no planning permission for what I wanted to do and I started with a takeaway, “The restaurant was soon opened and eight years ago extended,” he adds. “My brother Makham is the chef and my son and nephews, who have worked with me part-time for several years while completing their education, are now full-time here and central to maintaining quality and developing the restaurant. “They have exceeded my expectations on training and

And the methodology works. Distracted by kitchen duties, Rafique leaves me sitting at the bar for a few minutes. It’s an opportunity to chat to one customer, a window fitter and builder, waiting for a takeaway order. “This is the best. You have to wait a while for food to be cooked, but it’s always fresh, always consistent. “I’ve been coming here for 25 years; since the place opened and I’ve not tired of the excellent curries. All the staff know you – they know loads of people who come here to dine. It’s the best curry place I’ve ever visited,” he says. Near to the bar is a collection of mounted newspaper cutting hailing the success of the restaurant and the quality of its food. It’s an interesting read, but the positive reviews are readily eclipsed by a single glance at meals being served. Rafique is big on the no-gimmick virtues of his restaurant. “I will never compromise on quality or quantity. Everybody here knows that those things can never change. Regularly packed to the rafters, with diners willing to wait at the bar for tables, Wombourne Tandoori offers an impressive selection of gastronomic delights. From simple traditional masalas and dhansaks to the more obscure dishes for foodie adventurers, Rafique believes he has a winning recipe in the village battle for the curry king’s crown. Clearly a cut above from some competitors, it’s a place that won’t break the bank and is guaranteed to satisfy the taste buds of even the most discerning palate.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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 Christmas Day Lunch, Christmas Office Parties and Christmas Family and Friends Get-togethers.

Available from 1st – 24th December

Rafique Miah welcomes you to the longest established Indian and Bangladeshi Restaurant in Wombourne Village, serving sumptuous Bangladeshi Cuisine for over 25 years.

for groups of 10 people or more

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 81

Himley Hall

Himley Hall is a commanding 18th Century stately home set amongst 180 acres of ‘Capability Brown’ landscaped parkland. Once the family home to the Earls of Dudley and host to royalty and high society, today it offers a glamorous setting for civil wedding ceremonies and receptions, elegant afternoon teas, special occasion celebrations and parties, art and craft exhibitions as well as prestigious conference facilities and guided tours. Enjoy one of the true traditions of our culinary heritage in a venue where royal newlyweds spent their honeymoon and princes and earls once strolled. The classic combination of ribbon sandwiches, scones with fruit conserve and

cream, sweet pastries and tea in the superb setting of Himley Hall is an afternoon of indulgence that cannot be missed.

weekday dates each month. Individual, small party or large group bookings are available up to a maximum of 100 persons

Arrival at Himley Hall is at 2.00pm with guests seated in one of our beautifully refurbished ground floor rooms by 2.30pm ready to enjoy an afternoon of indulgence.

If you would like more information on Afternoon Tea at Himley Hall or Himley Hall as a civil wedding ceremony and reception venue please call 01384 817817.

Guests may also ‘top up’ their afternoon tea with a glass of prosecco or a ‘G & T’ for a small extra charge. Afternoon Tea in Himley Hall must be pre-booked and is offered on individual

Himley Hall is open to the public for exhibitions until 6th September Tuesday – Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday 2.00-5.00pm, admission is free. 82

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Book a Dream

Wedding

There is so much to consider, plan and include when arranging your big day and just a little extra inspiration can transform a run of the mill wedding into a dream wedding.

Collingwood Library, Broadway Gardens WV10 8EA 01902 552025 East Park Library Hurstbourne Crescent WV1 2EE 01902 556257 Finchfield Library White Oak Drive WV3 9AF 01902 556260

Knowing exactly who does what and when can also be a bit of a minefield so an etiquette guide is also invaluable to consult during the planning process. Who thanks the bridesmaids? When do the speeches happen? Who should be toasted? All of these long-standing traditions and ‘rules’ can be checked and taken into account so that no-one is offended – or missed out!

Long Knowle Library Wood End Road WV11 1YG 01902 556290

We then can move onto the creative aspects of the day – where personalities and preferences can really come to the fore. What flowers suit the style of your day? What meaning do all of the different flowers have in a romantic sense? Why is it considered unlucky to have red and white flowers together at a wedding?* How would the bride like to have her hair styled? Would a tiara suit? What style of cake is possible?

So many thoughts!

And if all that leaves you feeling in need of a little relaxation, there are plenty of wedding themed novels available for a little light relief – many by the most famous of authors.

Low Hill Library Showell Circus WV10 9JJ 01902 556293 Pendeford Library Whitburn Close WV9 5NJ 01902 556250 Penn Library Coalway Avenue WV3 7LT 01902 556281 Spring Vale Library Bevan Avenue WV4 6SG 01902 556284

In addition, books can be consulted containing photography ideas – styles and poses along with interesting books on marriage in other countries and cultures – for research or for interest.

*it is thought that red and white flowers are representative of blood and bandages and so superstition rules that they are bad luck together.

Bilston Library Mount Pleasant WV14 7LU 01902 556253

Central Library Snow Hill WV1 3AX 01902 552025

Let’s start with the day as a whole. It can be quite overwhelming to start to plan such an important day – especially as it’s often an experience we haven’t been through before! A wedding planning book is a useful tool to ensure that nothing is missed out – and a running order of a typical day can be consulted to check that everything happens at the correct time.

Find out more about our stock of wedding-themed books – and all the others by visiting our online catalogue at www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/catalogue

Ashmore Park Library Griffiths Drive WV11 2LH 01902 556296

Blakenhall Library Bromley Street WV2 3AS 01902 555460

And there’s plenty of inspiration on hand in Wolverhampton’s libraries…

We know that weddings are a very stressful and expensive time. So here at Wolverhampton libraries it gives us great pleasure to announce that it’s FREE to join the library and it’s FREE to borrow books!

Where's my library?

Tettenhall Library Upper Street WV6 8QF 01902 556308 Warstones Library Pinfold Grove WV4 9PT 01902 556275 Wednesfield Library Well Lane WV11 1XT 01902 556278 Whitmore Reans Library Bargate Drive WV6 0QW 01902 556269

wolverhampton.gov.uk/libraries wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

commemorating Wolves legends Billy Wright and Stan Cullis. As an extra incentive to celebrate your special day with us we are offering one lucky couple the chance to win our wedding prize draw.

Book your wedding to win Molineux Stadium is no ordinary venue, home to one of the founder members of the Football League, Wolverhampton Wanderers, for 125 years. The stadium has 11 licenced rooms that can host civil ceremonies for 10-275 people, some with stunning views over the pitch where history has been made. Your wedding breakfast and evening receptions can follow, with us able

to accommodate parties of up to 275 with a three course sit down meal followed by an evening buffet. We offer a number of packages to suit budgets and guest lists, as well as personal tastes and our dedicated events team will work with you to make your day as perfect as the vision you have of it. As part of your package we can allow access to pitch side for photographs, as well as the iconic backdrop of the exterior of the Stadium and statues

Would you like free chair covers for your reception, a Wolves legend to pop along on the day to say hello and help you toast your special day and to top it all off a trip to our directors box on the nearest match-day to your first anniversary – a dream come true for any Wolves fan.

All you need to do to qualify is book your wedding before 31st December 2015 and you will be entered into the draw. Weddings must be booked before 31st December 2015 but can take place after the date. We would love to invite you to come and view our facilities, meet our Events Team and discuss how we can help you plan your perfect day. Call 0871 222 2220 (option 5) or email weddings@wolves.co.uk

Weddings @ Molineux Book your wedding between now and 31st December 2015 to enter a draw to win: • Free chair covers for your reception. • A visit from a Wolves legend to congratulate the happy couple and pose for photos. • A visit to Directors Box for the Bride and Groom at the nearest game to your first wedding anniversary. Quote Reference WWTVL2015 when booking to enter the draw.

weddings@wolves.co.uk corporatewolves.co.uk 0871 222 2220 option 5

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Photography for all occasions Wedding Events

Newborn Family

Commercial Portraits

Fixed price and bespoke packages available Contact us for more details

IN A WORLD OF PURE IMAGINATION WE WILL TURN YOUR DREAMS INTO REALITY

The Endearing

Buds

of Tettenhall

Bouquets and Floral Arrangements For any occasion Weddings, Funerals and all religious ceremonies Have you ever thought about running your own business? Floristry Franchises now available.

Buds of Tettenhall A reputation for quality

Flowers

5 Lower Street, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton Tel: 0800 1303229 facebook.com/tettenhall.buds www.budsoftettenhall.co.uk

Buds are bespoke florists providing commercial and residential clients with beautiful, custom made floral designs for events and weddings. Using carefully selected flowers from mostly Dutch growers, our signature style is quintessentially English. We also offer a hire service which includes candelabras, chair covers and a selection of vases to complement any venue. Buds are always looking for new innovative designs for our floral arrangements and this is what sets us apart from other florists. Our corporate clients include Mercedes Benz.

As our business expands, we are now looking to expand our existing operations through new strategic franchise partnerships. Using a proven business formula, the right person or business will have the potential to build a profitable floristry business in their chosen territory. We are committed to providing an excellent service to all our customers. With this in mind the principle from day one has been to achieve exceptionally high standards with a professional approach.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Albrighton Hall Hotel & Spa Mercure Albrighton Hall Hotel and Spa nestles in the stunning grounds of Albrighton near Shrewsbury.

staff are very proud of the history of the building and enjoy making its own individual style part of their high quality service.

The hotel is well-known for hosting a variety of events, but most notably for weddings. The hotel hosts weddings all year round including mid week and it boasts four licensed areas – the Drawing Room, the Mallard Room, the Albrighton Suite and the Lakeside Suite, so can host weddings for a few or up to 250 people. They never host more than one wedding per day.

The building has stood proud for centuries near to the area on which the historic battle of Shrewsbury was played out in 1403. These days it is home to one of Shropshire’s premier 4 star establishments, boasting eons of charm and charisma. But how does a building that was recently purchased by Focus Hotels keep its history alive? The Hotel is split into 4 parts, housing 87 bedrooms, including 9 Privilege rooms, some of which have 4 poster beds, original features and stunning views of the grounds and the Shropshire Hills. The Main House is full of all the character you would expect for such a historic building. The Drawing Room is a stunning oak panelled room with crystal chandeliers, the perfect setting for afternoon tea or an intimate wedding ceremony.

There is a newer part of the Hall, The Lakeside, so called because it overlooks the picturesque lake, the old School Masters house, which has 10 bedrooms and the Stable wing has 16 rooms, including ground floor rooms with disability access. In addition to the hall and the grounds, the hotel has its own spa, complete with gym, squash court, swimming pool, thermal suite and beauty rooms. All the

So what of the future? For a start, they have just completed a stunning refurbishment of the Albrighton Suite, the most popular wedding room with gold ornate balustrade, state of the art lighting and elegant granite bar. Two of the finest bedrooms in the hotel have been fully redecorated with a classic but contemporary twist, and more refurbishment of the grounds and spa are also planned, so very exciting times ahead!

Mercure Albrighton Hall Hotel and Spa

Autumn Bridal Fayre Sunday 27th September 2015 11.00am – 4.00pm Free admission A perfect place for gathering ideas for your big day, from cars to videographers, hairstyles to make-up, we will have it all. Bridal fashion shows will take place at 12.00 noon and 2.00pm

Call our wedding co-ordinator now on 01939 291 000 for more information or email: h6629-sb1@accor.com

Mercure Albrighton Hall Hotel & Spa, Ellesmere Road, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY4 3AG Please follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest to keep up to date with what’s going on www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Patshull Park HOTEL

The per fect wedding venue Patshull Park Hotel is a romantic and tranquil wedding venue located only 5 miles from Wolverhampton and Telford near the picturesque village of Pattingham.

The hotel which sits in 200 acres of scenic parkland and overlooks breath taking tree lined lakes has an excellent reputation for friendly and professional staff, delicious food, and great views. The Hotel boasts 49 en-suite bedrooms, heated indoor pool, cardio gymnasium and spa, plus car parking for over 200 cars. Guests can choose from a variety of wedding packages available throughout the year to suit most budgets. Our wedding rooms can accommodate 50-120 for sit down meals, and 100-180 for evening buffets and entertainment. Come and experience the tranquillity of Patshull

Wedding

For the perfect

Winter Wedding Offer 2016

Choose to stay with us for a variety of occasions or events; you will be allocated a dedicated events co-ordinator to ensure every aspect of your event meet your exact requirements. Visit our web site on www. patshull-park.co.uk , look us up on Trip Advisor, and come see for yourself at our Wedding Fairs on Sunday September 20th and Sunday February 21st 2016, doors open at 11 am. Call our wedding co-ordinator Jo Guest for a chat and a tour of the hotel; we are certain that you will not be disappointed. We look forward to welcoming you to Patshull Park Hotel. Call us on (01902) 700100 or email sales@patshull-park.co.uk

Patshull Park Hotel Pattingham WV6 7HR www.patshull-park.co.uk email: sales@patshull-park.co.uk For a personal visit please call 01902 700 100 and ask for the sales team.

January, February, November & December 2016

£3,500.00 package including 50 lunch guests, 100 evening buffet guests plus, disco and room hire until 1.00am. Contact Jo Guest for available dates.

Experience the Scenery Breathtaking scenery and professional staff. Excellent food and friendly service. Packages for most budgets including ‘off peak’ offers. A perfect day tailored to your specific requirements.

Park; play a round of golf or simply relax during a spa treatment at Beauty Within, located in our Health & Fitness complex.

Wedding Fairs

Sunday September 20th 2015 & Sunday 21st February 2016, Free Entry, 11.00am - 3.00pm Special offers for guests booking their wedding on the day.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

(Now located inside Teddy’s hair salon)

‘For all your beauty treatments’ September and October offer*

Independent Cambridge Weight Plan Consultant

Cambridge Weight Plan is all about choices, made by you to benefit you. Together, you and your Consultant will work out a plan that suits your lifestyle – helping you achieve the best results at the rate you want.

Add a glow to your skin with an Illuminating Facial. Brightens your skin and helps with pigmentation. Suitable for any skin type.

So, why not make a positive decision to change your life for the better and call me today.

Real People, Real Support, Real Results

Illuminating Facial and Shellac File & Polish

offer price only

Are you worried about your weight? If you are, Cambridge Weight Plan could be the answer.

Getting married or attending a special occasion?

£60

Tettenhall Weight Loss Centre

Cambridge Weight Plan Award Winner Highly Commended & “Above and Beyond” 2010/11

£45*

Sales Champion & Business Building 2012/13

t: 07974 974 994

Bookings by appointment only

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

Please call Geeta on 07968 182984 Teddy’s Hair Design, 35 Queen Square, Wolverhampton WV1 1TL

Karen Price

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

Luxury travel for all occasions

Our fleet of vehicles includes a 5 seater Jaguar XJ, a 7 seater Mercedes R Class and a 9 seater executive minibus (Luxury trailer also available for extra luggage)

• Wedding Hire • Airport Transfers A luxury • Sea Ports service that is • Proms more affordable than you think, • Birthdays • Evening Events call for a free quote... • Anniversaries • Concerts • Sporting Events and any other Special Occasion...

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Image chauffeur driven luxury cars and minibuses Luxury Cars - Gold Service Bases in the West Midlands & Shropshire

Contact: Keith Warner on 01902 847145 / 07772 605764 or Amanda Weston on 07807 648689

E: enquiries@imageluxurycars.co.uk • www.imageluxurycars.co.uk

Get gorgeous, glowing skin in time for your

Image courtesy of BHS

by Helen Taylor

big day

toxins, so it’s great for your skin. Aim to do a little exercise outside in the fresh air each day for an unmistakable healthy glow.

Stick to a skincare routine Cleansing and moisturising your skin everyday will keep it in tip-top condition, as well as keeping blemishes and wrinkles at bay. Don’t forget to moisturise your delicate eye area too by using an eye cream each night. Use products that are tailored to your skin type, whether it’s dry, oily, combination or blemish prone. Exfoliate regularly to slough of dead cells on the surface of your skin and encourage the rejuvenation of the skin underneath. Gentle exfoliators can be used everyday, others are best used only once a week.

Don’t stress and sleep well Planning a wedding is stressful, but try to keep worrying to a minimum because it has a negative effect on your skin. Relax and unwind with some dedicated ‘me time’ each day and ensure that you get plenty of sleep every night - aim for at least 8 hours.

Treat yourself to a facial

A flawless, radiant complexion is essential for your wedding day, so it’s important to start a dedicated skincare routine months in advance.

foods, dairy products and alcohol are just some of the items we consume that can have a negative effect, causing problems like acne and premature ageing.

Here’s our essential guide for glowing skin:

Watermelon, broccoli and brazil nuts all contain skin-boosting properties.

Eat healthy, look gorgeous

Exercise for a healthy glow

When it comes to improving your skin it really is important to look at your diet first of all. Processed

Exercise aids circulation, increasing oxygen levels in the blood which speeds up the elimination of

So, it’s time to ditch processed, high fat foods - as well as your favourite tipple - in favour of fruit, vegetables and plenty of mineral water.

Regular facials are essential for beautiful skin and offer you the perfect excuse to book in at the salon and enjoy some pampering. Your beauty therapist will be able to properly assess your skin’s needs and advise on which products to use at home. When you leave the salon you’ll feel great and your skin will look amazing.

Fake it with make-up Well applied make-up is guaranteed to give you a healthy glow. Whether you’re having your make-up professionally applied or you’re doing it yourself, a skin illuminating primer, carefully applied highlighter and of course, a great foundation will be essential.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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Sophisticated Style at

Aristocats Autumn fashion is all about sophisticated style and there is no better place to find your new season’s look than at the ladies fashion boutique, Aristocats.

Rabe – a quality knitwear collection designed in a wide range of beautiful colours. Aristocats has carefully chosen items that will co-ordinate with the many other designer collections that are stocked throughout the store.

This Autumn/Winter (2015) Aristocats are introducing two new exciting German labels:

Aristocats staff offer a friendly, professional yet personal service. The team strive to ensure that clients are assisted, if required, in order to make an informed choice.

Betty Barclay – a colour co-ordinated range of dresses and separates. The mix and match collection can be adapted to suit individual taste and requirements.

Owner, Carol Billingsley, states, “Great customer service is

our number one priority and we aim to provide a relaxed and thoroughly enjoyable shopping experience.” Whatever the occasion, you are sure to find the perfect outfit at Aristocats. The clothes will take you effortlessly to any function whether casual or formal in the daytime, after six or late evening. Fabulous quality, effortlessly stylish and easy to wear. Call in at Aristocats today to update your fashion look this season.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

• Aldo Martins • Basler • Betty Barclay • Eugen Klein • Faber • Frank Walder • Gelco • Joseph Ribkoff • Just White • Olsen • Rabe

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

More lines available now at 4

1: Stone Island Sweater £45 - 2: Stone Island Shirt £80 - 3: Hugo Boss Tee £35 - 4: Ralph Lauren Knit Dress £120 5: Ralph Lauren Gilet £120 - 6: Ted Baker Bag £29 - 7: Stone Island Padded Jacket from £230 8: Converse from £26 - 9: Ted Baker Jelly Pump £50 - 10: Timberland Boots £80

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

NOW AVAILABLE AT

Our 0-16 year old girls and boys collections are now available at: Diffusion Merry Hill Unit 47, Merry Hill Centre 01384 480504

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Diffusion Wolverhampton 9 Lichfield Street 01902 716762

EssEntial autumn st ylE

Essential Autumn Look 2 Bronde Can’t decide between brown or blonde hair? They choose bronde. This colour technique fuses brown and blonde to create a flattering, natural and sun-kissed hair colour result. Blondes get added depth and dimension, whilst brunettes have their look lifted and illuminated. “Jennifer Lopez is queen of brondes and has already seen a whole host of celebrity A-listers follow her statement colour. Cara Delevingne is another ‘it girl’ who has swapped her fair blonde hair for a decidedly darker version this season.” Bronde hair colour can be adapted and personalised to suit all complexions and is a real favourite with clients: “Our clients are loving this colour technique because they don’t have to choose between blonde or brunette.”

It’s not just your wardrobe that needs updating at the start of a new season, your hair does too. The bright blonde hues and tousled waves of summer that looked perfect on the beach seem out of place when paired with autumn’s fashions. That’s why it’s time to say goodbye to last season’s trends and treat yourself to a hair makeover that’ll ensure that you step into autumn in style. We’ve teamed up with Royston Blythe, winners of Midlands Hairdresser of the Year 2014, to bring you an essential guide to the biggest and best looks for autumn/winter 2015.

Essential Autumn Look 1 Rich Girl Hair Rich Girl hair is about elegance, sophistication and glamour. Tresses 96

need to be lengthy, glossy, healthy and incredibly well cared for to achieve full Rich Girl status. Nick Malenko explains: “Rich Girl hair is a key look that has come directly from the catwalk, this must-have style is perfect for autumn. To get the look you’ll need to invest in a deep conditioning treatment and regular trims.” It’s essential to keep hair as healthylooking as possible and free from any split ends. If your locks are still showing damage from the perils of summer - over exposure to the sun, chlorine and salt water - it’s worth trying Kérastase’s fabulous hair mask, Masquintense: “Masquintense is a home hair care treatment that is perfect for hair that’s sensitive, dehydrated and in need of repair and rejuvenation. It moisturises and restores hair without making it feel heavy, as well as preventing the return of any dryness.”

Autumn Essential Look 3 Finding Your Signature Hairstyle This Season There’s plenty to consider when you’re searching for a gorgeous new hairstyle. You need something that’ll flatter your face shape, enhance your features, complement your hair colour and work with your lifestyle. “It’s always good to look for new hairstyle inspiration in your favourite glossy magazines or on the net. If you don’t want to change your current style dramatically there’s plenty of ways to keep the look, but just up date it a little.” Booking in at the salon with a collection of styles that you’ve found will help your stylist get an idea of the look you want to achieve. They’ll also be able to tailor it to suit your individual hair type. “Personalising a client’s look is really important - we want each of them to have their own, individual and unique signature style.”

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

An experts’ opinion is always best, so call in for a consultation to discuss your style ideas and be prepared to listen to the professional for the very best advice. Check out the salon’s website - www.roystonblythe.co.uk - for all of the latest styles, product information and advice.

Exciting News at Royston Blythe - HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards Nick, Sophie, Royston and Charles are finalists in the Midlands Hairdresser of the Year 2015 category at HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional. The prestigious photographic competition allows artistic teams from across the country to submit a collection of four images showcasing their creativity and technical ability, the collections are then judged by industry peers. The Royston Blythe team are currently submitting a further four images, to create a collection of eight, that will be judged in its entirety for the final part of the competition. The winners of all sixteen categories are due to be announced on Monday 23rd November at a glamorous event held at The Grosvenor House, a JW Marriot Hotel. “To be a finalist is an amazing feeling - to be considered amongst the best in the country is incredible. I hope our next set of images is just as strong and that it’s Royston Blythe that’s called out on the night,” says Royston. Before

After

Royston and Nick have just finished filming for itvBe’s hit TV reality show, The Real Housewives of Cheshire. Fans of the drama-filled series will be pleased to hear that the second season is due to hit our screens in September.

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

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After

www.instagram.com/roystonblythehair

B e au ty R o o m s

Wall Heath wins prestigious Clarins Gold Salon Award

When asked about how it feels to have won such a prestigious award, Julie said, “We are delighted to have won the Clarins Gold Salon of the Year Award! Running your own business can bring some real challenges along the way so winning such a high profile award has made all the hard work worthwhile. Our team of therapists are amazing, dedicated, professional ladies and it is their hard work that has made this all possible, in particular our salon manageresses; Vikki Turner who helps us to maintain our high standards and Danielle McGinn who performed the treatment on which we scored 96%.”

left Managing Director Debbie Lewis, Owners of Beauty Rooms Linda Emmerson and Julie Pearce

Julie Pearce and Linda Emmerson, owners of Beauty Rooms, Wall Heath, have been awarded the Clarins Gold Salon of the Year Award – one of the highest national accolades in the beauty salon business. The Beauty Rooms was established in 1997 by the mother and daughter duo, who vowed to only use products and treatments that they truly believed in and trusted, and so began their partnership with Clarins. Situated in the heart of the village, they pride themselves on their professional yet friendly approach, regularly hosting Clarins Beauty Parties and workshops, making them widely recognised as “Clarins Experts”. Clarins introduced the concept of Gold Salons nearly 20 years ago. As part of any relationship with

a feeling of heart and warmth and she says she could not have done this without them. Julie’s husband Andy decorated both salons himself and Julie’s mum Linda, has been a huge support in keeping the business going whilst Julie had her three children, Bradley 15, Darcey 11 and Finley 9. As the business has grown Julie also has the flexibility of help from her sister Jayne Mills and niece Libby Mills when it is needed.

a beauty salon, Clarins provides beauty products and trains its staff to advise on Clarins treatments and home care. However, it recognised that some salons give an exemplary level of Clarins service and as such awarded them Gold Salon Status. When judged against other leading Clarins Gold Salons, Beauty Rooms stood out for its exceptional standard of practical treatment, friendly yet professional manner, salon ambience and overall business development, scoring 96% in their Test Shop. There are currently 21 salons which have been awarded the highly-prized Clarins Gold Salon acknowledgement for outstanding performance and Beauty Rooms has become the 22nd Gold Salon to join that elite group.

To celebrate this award, Clarins have created a luxury facial exclusively for Beauty Rooms, Wall Heath. This highly personalised, results-driven facial is suitable for all skin types and incorporates a deeply relaxing hot stone décolleté massage to gently release tension and calm mind and body. This limited edition facial is available for just £40 plus, you will receive a pampering Clarins kit worth £25 at the end of your treatment.* This offer is available from 1st September to 30th November 2015. For further details please call The Beauty Rooms, Wall Heath on 01384 353735. *whilst stocks last

This family-run salon aims to bridge the gap between local salon and spa, combining friendliness with professionalism and superior quality in every way. Julie’s family’s involvement really does give the salon

TO CELEBRATE THEIR NATIONAL AWARD

‘CLARINS GOLD SALON WINNER’

20% off*

Beauty Rooms are offering any one beauty treatment throughout September, October and November 2015 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.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Clarins Gold Salon of the Year 2014. GOL D

ER TN

Exclusive Oﬀer

ON PA SAL R

Restore your skin’s perfect balance with a Clarins luxury facial created exclusively for The Beauty Rooms Spa, Wall Heath. 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 2015. 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 2015. One gift per customer while stocks last. *Based on ml value of standard size products.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital

Helping you make the most of life responsibility for your nursing care and works around the clock to ensure your comfort and safety.

Physiotherapists

Our physiotherapists can help restore your movement and function if you’ve been affected by an injury, illness or are recovering from an operation. They can also provide you with advice in pain relief and rehabilitation to get you back on your feet and help you to lead a happy and healthy life.

Private GPs Your health is at the centre of everything we do. Whether you need prevention or cure, we want to work with you to ensure your health allows you to lead the life you want. As a not-for-profit business we reinvest all profit in our hospitals, gyms, medical centres, and our expert staff. We have the highest standards of clinical care, with Consultantled treatment, spotlessly clean rooms, and a team of dedicated and experienced nurses.

Our Health Experts Consultants

All our consultants are highly experienced and are here to listen to you. During your consultation they will answer any questions you have and tell you all about your diagnosis and any treatment or procedure. They are all registered with the appropriate professional organisation for their specialty and hold General Medical Council registration. Having medical treatment can be an anxious time, that is why we think it’s important that you have the same consultant looking after you throughout your time with us. Your consultant will also continue to look after you when you return home, and during any aftercare.

Matron-led care

Everyone knows that matrons make hospitals run efficiently and, above all, hygienically. Nuffield Health has never lost sight of this. Our dedicated Matron takes

You can see our private GPs at a time that suits you with minimal waiting and plenty of time for your appointment so you don’t feel rushed. They can also refer you to hospital consultants if necessary.

A guide to accessing private healthcare Paying For Yourself

If you don’t have health insurance, it doesn’t mean you can’t have swift access to private hospital treatment. At Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital private treatment can be just as accessible by paying for yourself. Our treatment costs are transparent and covered by a one-off-payment – and are more affordable than you might think. • Enquiry You have a medical problem and DON’T have health insurance. Contact us for more information or to book an appointment. • Your initial consultation This will take place at your local Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital. There is a one off payment for this appointment. • Tests and investigations You may need further tests or investigations as recommended by your consultant. These are paid for as and when required. • Treatment If you need surgical or nonsurgical treatment, this will be arranged at a time to suit you. You will be given a guaranteed all-inclusive procedure price.

• Aftercare All aftercare is included within your treatment. The Nuffield Health Promise means there are no time limits on your aftercare.*

Private Medical Health Insurance • Enquiry You have a medical problem and you DO have private medical health insurance. Contact us to guide you through the process or to book an initial consultation appointment. Check with your insurer that your policy covers you for treatment with us. • Your initial consultation This will take place at your local Nuffield Health Hospital. You will need your insurance policy number and preauthorisation code and a referral letter from your GP • Tests and investigations You may need further tests or investigations as recommended by your consultant. • Treatment If you need surgical or nonsurgical treatment, this will be arranged at a time to suit you. We will arrange payment directly with your insurance company. • Aftercare All aftercare is included within your treatment.

In our hospital you can expect: • Rapid access to consultations, x-rays and treatment • Matron-led care with a dedicated, friendly nursing team • First class treatment and clinical standards • Guidance and support throughout every stage of your treatment • Private, en-suite rooms with excellent facilities Don’t wait, get back to the life you love - Contact us Now! For further information on any of the above please call us today on 01902 275211 or visit our website: www.nuffieldhealth. com/hospitals/wolverhampton

*Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. “Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention.

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wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

• No waiting lists • Dedicated private facilities • Imaging results in days not weeks • Choose your Consultant • Free parking • Post Discharge Recovery Programme • Interest free medical loans

Why choose Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital? Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital offers the highest standards of clinical care, with Consultant-led treatment, spotlessly clean rooms, and a team of dedicated and experienced nurses. You don’t need private medical insurance to get private healthcare at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital, you can pay for yourself. What’s more, if you pay for yourself you are covered by our exclusive Promise. The Nuffield Health Promise is our pledge to our patients, where we ensure that you receive a clear and transparent price for your treatment, the very best in clinical care, and with no limits on your care***.

Specialities covered at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital include: • • • • • •

Cardiology Dermatology Endocrinology Ear, Nose & Throat Gastroenterology General medicine

• • • • • •

General surgery Gynaecology Neurology Ophthalmology Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Orthopaedics

• • • • • •

Paediatrics Physiotherapy Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Rheumatology Radiology Urology

For more information or to book, contact

01902 275 211 wolverhampton.enquiries@nuffieldhealth.com Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital, Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 8LE

*** Where necessary, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required. Where a prosthesis is required for your procedure, this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s expected prosthesis lifetime. Clinically required indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of your condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of your procedure. The Nuffield Health Promise applies for patients paying for themselves and excludes fertility services.

NHOD-15-152 Wolverhampton 218mm x 140mm Portrait .indd 1

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15/06/2015 11:32

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www.salon27wolverhampton.co.uk Find us on Facebook: Salon 27 unisex hairsalon

Have a good hair day “Every one of us at the salon is highly trained and we regularly attend a variety of different courses to learn all of the latest cutting, colouring and styling techniques.”

Regulars at the salon will be pleased to hear that senior stylist, Nicky, has just returned from her maternity leave and salon junior, Bex, is soon to be a fully qualified stylist: “We’re delighted that Nicky is back working with us now and we can’t wait for Beks to finish her training so that she can join the team as a stylist.” Salon 27 has recently introduced a collection of fantastic new professional products to their already extensive range: “Wella Professionals’ new Elements range is free of sulphates, parabens and artificial colourants, it has a unique NuTREE complex which is enriched with natural tree extract. It instantly repairs and provides up to 10 times more keratin protection, guarding against keratin degeneration and renewing hair vitality.” Also new to the salon, Wella Professional’s fashionforward EIMI product range has been popular with clients looking to create an on-trend look: “Whatever style you want to create, EIMI has the product for you. This range is incredible and there’s something for all hair types, for both men and women.

With a talented team of stylists and an impressive selection of products, it’s no surprise that Salon 27 is celebrating its fifth year in business this November. Owner Jodie Mason says: “We’re really excited to be celebrating our fifth birthday this year. Opening the business five years ago was an absolute dream come true for me because I’d always wanted to have my own salon.” And since Jodie took over in 2010 the business - that’s located just outside of Wolverhampton in Wakeley Hill, Penn - has gone from strength to strength: “I started at the salon as a Saturday girl 20 years ago and when I heard that it was closing down I decided to take it on myself. I’m really lucky to have seven amazing members of staff working for me and lots of lovely regular customers.” Passionate about what they do, the Salon 27 team work hard to create looks that their clients love and keep up-to-date with all of the latest hair trends for both men and women. 102

“EIMI’s Sugar Lift is perfect for creating a textured wavy look for long layered hair, whilst the Pearl Styler is ideal for guys who want to style a quiff.” For those who are concerned about thinning hair though, there is Nioxin: “Thinning hair can be really upsetting and it can affect both men and women. Nioxin offer a complete range of thinning hair systems and specialised products, each with innovative skin-care inspired technologies to help clients experience thicker, fuller hair.” The team are always happy to advise on what products will suit your hair type and the style you want to achieve, meaning that you don’t have to worry about any more bad hair days. Monday nights at the salon are reserved for training and Jodie is always keen to take on new hair models. In fact, she’s also looking to hire a new member of staff: “We’re currently looking to recruit a senior stylist and would ask anyone who’s interested to contact us at the salon.” There’s a pre-Christmas party planned for Saturday 5th December at Salon 27, so clients, make a date in your diary. wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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

September offer

October offer

WiTH A Full PriCe CuT And FiniSH

Only £10

HALF PRICE COLOUR Opening times:

GENTS CUT & BLOW DRY

Half price colour every Thursday Monday 9am – 5pm with selected Wednesday 9am – 7pm stylists. Kids cut offer every Thursday 11am – 8pm Monday 3pmFriday 9am – 6pm 5pm or Friday Saturday 8.30am to 4.30pm & Saturday www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Closed Tuesday and Sunday with Hannah.

To book an appointment please call on:

(01902) 836565 www.salon27wolverhampton.co.uk

Find us on Facebook: Salon 27 unisex hairsalon 65 Wakeley Hill, Penn, Wolverhampton, WV4 5BA

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New staff to help keep

smiles

dazzling

In a raft of improvements being introduced at Parkside Dental Practice, Wolverhampton, two new hygienists are due to join the clinical team.

maintaining healthy teeth is flossing. Tiny particles of food become trapped in the places brushes cannot irrigate and the enamel begins to erode under the assault of developing bacteria.

They will take up their positions in September, creating more opportunities for patients to keep their pearly whites in top condition.

“We live in a fast-paced world of bringing up children, meeting the challenges of work and ticking the boxes in family life. For me it appears bizarre, but teeth often get neglected. Seeing one of our hygienists can often flag up problems at an early stage, or resolve them before they become too serious.”

Already the Parkside staff are looking forward to Olivia and Katie bringing their skills to the team as long-standing hygienist, Jo, takes up an MoD position. Said practice manager Vanessa Wilding: “Our new girls are both lovely people and whilst we are sad to see Jo go we can’t wait to have our new members of staff. “Dental hygiene is critical for maintaining healthy teeth and gums and the worth of this kind of dentistry is shown in our commitment to appoint two clinicians in this role. “Over recent years we have noticed that more and more people are becoming smile conscious and to keep orally healthy, regular appointments with hygienists – just like dental check-ups – are essential. “It’s shocking to note that according to research, the average person brushes their teeth just two minutes a day. That’s 38.5 days in an average lifetime.” Dental recommendations suggest teeth should be brushed six minutes every day. Most common of those things ignored in the quest for 104

Olivia and Katie – new hygienists at Parkside

Even with the most diligent of regimes, it is impossible to clean teeth in the same way as dental hygienists.

Periodontal (gum) disease can take on many forms and if untreated can lead to bone and tooth loss. It is the single biggest reason for adult tooth loss in the UK as it continues to make its insidious progression across the population. Carl Horton BDs MSc Periodontology (GDC 71768), one of the dentists at the Parkside practice in Park Road West, said: “Often without symptoms and pain, it can go unnoticed by sufferers.” As well as dental implant work and general dentistry, accomplished micro surgeon Carl carries out gum realignment/grafting procedures, surgically addresses ‘gummy smiles’, undertakes bone grafting and other procedures he describes as “the equivalent to keyhole surgery.” “It’s great to have that skill inhouse.” added Vanessa, “ but our aim is to head off those invasive procedures and a simple

appointment with a hygienist is a good place to begin.” Hygienist Olivia graduated with a BSc in dental hygiene and therapy from The University of Birmingham. “I am committed to helping people maintain their oral health by preventing and treating periodontal disease. I feel privileged to be joining the Parkside Dental team." Her colleague, Katie, qualified from Cardiff University after previously working as a dental nurse for five years. Both hygienists are looking forward to being part of Jonathon Pugh dentistry and working with the Parkside Dental Practice.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

embrace your inner smile

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Invisibleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; braces. Obvious results Procedures involve regular visits to our orthodontic clinic and treatment can last from 6 to 24 months.

Telephone: www.parksidedental.co.uk

01902 421291 7 Park Road West, Wolverhampton, WV1 4PS

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part of Jon Pugh Dental

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Looking For The Perfect Body Without Surgery? Imagine a non-surgical fat reduction procedure that costs a fraction of what most treatments cost, is permanent, and tackles those tough spots like ‘love handles’ and belly fat. UltraSlim LipoFreeze Cryolipolysis and Ultrasound Cavitation Lipo are the most effective non surgical body sculpting treatments available on the market today. Inches can be lost off any given area of the body with a short, simple treatment administered in a comfortable, relaxed environment. Cryolipolysis LipoFreeze (Fat Freezing) delivers controlled cooling to reduce fat by up to 40% during a single treatment, while Ultrasound Cavitation Lipo & RF delivers instant results for fat reduction, in addition to targeting cellulite, reducing stretch marks and tightening loose skin after child birth. We are shaped by what we love, but you’ll love the shape you can achieve at UltraSlim Clinics. 106

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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www.ultraslimclinics.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Ego’s New Hair Collection - On-trend, stylish and completely wearable When we heard that the team at Ego had just launched their brand new hair collection we couldn’t wait to find out more. 108

Known for their on-trend styles and fashion-forward looks, the young team of stylists at the salon are always keen to create catwalkinspired hair that’s totally wearable. So, we caught up with the Tettehall-based salon’s owner and Artistic Director, Layla Sedgemore, to find out what inspired each of their four new signature styles for autumn/winter 2015. Here, Layla explains the looks:

Image 1: “This style oozes self expression, character and confidence. It’s an Arabianinspired look that is glamorous and modern. Ready-to-wear hair like this screams out to all those fashionistas who are looking to recreate runway looks for a night out or special event.”

Image 2: “Here we’ve been inspired by the classic and sophisticated looks of Dolce & Gabbana. This is a high fashion style and was sculpted to showcase sky-high volume, soft texture and loose crafted waves. It’s a captivating, wearable style for trend-seekers with a modern twist.”

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

even for those of us with only shoulder-length hair. “A lot of clients who are growing their hair want something that’s different but don’t want to lose any of their length. “So, we always suggest that they consider a hair-up, because it’s an instant way to change your appearance, no matter what image you want to create.” Ego’s up-do looks can be chic, polished and sophisticated or loose, tousled and relaxed:

Image 4: “Inspired by the beauty of Pre-Raphaelite women, we created this gorgeous tousled, organic, bohemian style. The loose fishtail braid is full of texture, moment and body and results in a care-free and romantic look.”

Image 3: “Nothing beats chic plaits and braids on the catwalk this season, so we have emulated the latest runway looks to create this feminine, natural and understated elegant style. Adding elements of texture and definition to the finished look serves to create a real tactile quality.”

Perfect for any special occasion, Ego’s latest collection provides style inspiration for those looking for a statement ’do for a party, function or wedding. Completely wearable, exceptionally versatile and on-trend, the looks can be adapted to suit any hair type. “Hair-up styles are a fantastic way for clients to change their look without the commitment of a cut or re-style.” That’s because hair-up options are endless and so versatile,

“We can tailor the look to suit whatever our client wants. If they’re attending a glamorous, formal party we can create an ultra-classy style or if they’re looking for a pretty, young and relaxed hair-up we can do that too.” And hair-ups can’t be beaten in the style stakes: “Up-do hairstyles have always been used to create statement, signature styles for women over the years. You just can’t beat the drama and impact that a great hair-up creates.” Whatever your current length or style, it’s definitely time that you tried an updo, so book in at the salon today and have fun finding your new look. A stunning result is guaranteed.

COMPETITION To celebrate 10 years in business Ego are giving one lucky Wolverhampton West Magazine reader the chance to win a fabulous prize of a hair make over consisting of a colour, cut and blowdry with any chosen stylist. The winner will receive a full consultation of what style, colour and cut will suit them best and in addition to this, a bespoke goodie bag will be tailored to the winners’ needs to maintain and care for their hair at home.

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

What is the salon owner’s name? Email your answer to: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk or on a postcard to Ego competition, Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY, please include your name, address and telephone number. All entries to be received by Friday 25th September. Competition terms and conditions: Winner will be chosen at random from all correct

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

entries received. To enter you will need to be aged 18 years or older. No cash or alternative prize is available. A skin test will be required at least 48 hours before appointment. Appointment date subject to availability. Prize to be redeemed by Saturday 31st October 2015. No cash or alternative prize available. All competition entries will be forwarded to Ego unless otherwise requested.

Ego 299/301 Tettenhall Road Newbridge Wolverhampton WV6 0LB Tel: 01902 754455 Email: news@ego-hairsalon.co.uk Facebook: Ego-HairSalon1 Twitter: @EgoHairSalon1 Instagram: EGOHAIRSALON1 109

Colour Block Sweater £32 Jeans £26 Bag £90 All Next

Amazing Autumn New Season Style By Helen Taylor Say ‘goodbye’ to summer and ‘hello’ to autumn with a fabulous new fashion look. There’s never been a better time to hit the shops and stock-up on those new season essentials that’ll keep you looking chic - and feeling snug - on the cool days ahead. Choose from cosy coats, statement knits and awesome accessories and have fun styling your signature look this autumn. Here are our favourite new season finds:

Reefer Coat £55 Lace Top £24 Bangles £14 Ring £5 All Next

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Mac £55 Saddle Bag £54 Denim Shirt Dress £28 Boots £120 All Next

wolverhampton wolverhamptonwest westmagazine magazine | | september september 2015

Jumper £35 Per Una at M&S

Blazer £269 Biba at House of Fraser

Top £35 Principles at Debenhams

Trousers £45 Edition Preen at Debenhams

Classic Coat £255 Betty Barclay at Aristocats, Wolverhampton Small Multi Function Tote Navy £220 Michael Kors at Diffusion

Batwing Dress £79 Phase Eight Ankle Boots £89 Dune

Necklaces from £119 Bracelets from £59 Earrings from £39

Stud Heart Barrel Bag Red £185 Love Moschino at Diffusion

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

Coeur de Lion exclusively at T.A. Henn, Wolverhampton The images used in this article are readily available in various places on the internet and are believed to be in the public domain. Wolverhampton West magazine claims no credit for them unless otherwise noted. If you own the rights to any of the images, or if any content appearing in Wolverhampton West magazine infringes on your copyright, please notify us and they will be promptly removed.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

What is

Visual Stress?

Simply explained, visual stress (also known as Irlen Syndrome, Visual Dyslexia, and Pattern Glare) is a sensitivity to visual patterns, especially stripes with excess contrast. It can occur when a white background appears to interfere with lines of black print and causes difficulties with visual processing of the reading content. 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 visual stress affects 12% of the population and 65 % of dyslexics. Sufferers may report movement and blurring of the text. Letters can appear to reverse or change shape. Halos, colours or patterns in the print, sometimes described as “rivers” or “worms”, red, sore eyes and headaches are also frequent

complaints. These individuals often have poor comprehension of the reading content, and are observed to fidget, move the book around, skip words or lines and often rub their eyes and blink frequently. Frustration and low self esteem can occur in children who are underachieving at school due to visual stress. This can also manifest as disruptive behaviour in extreme cases. Often children who have reading difficulties are mis- diagnosed as dyslexic, so it's important that the existence of visual stress is identified and treated at an early stage of education. 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.

Most recent studies found that people with reading difficulties such as dyslexia, are more likely to have unstable binocular vision at near distance which means their eyes have to work harder than usual to maintain alignment and tracking whilst reading and writing. Therefore to achieve best results, it is essential to investigate and correct this instability before undertaking Colorimetry assessment. Visual stress assessments are available at Taylor Biddle Opticians, and include a full binocular Schoolvision assessment and Colorimetry. Please enquire for further details.

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

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Free second pair of varifocal, occupational or single vision glasses with every purchase of bespoke varifocals (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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Jon Pugh marque is on the march

former senior hospital house officer and Birmingham Dental School clinical lecturer. Total Implant Solutions business development manager Bibi Dodd is taking an additional role as general manager to oversee the changes and extra patient-focussed improvements that are being introduced at Jon’s sister practice, Parkside Dental, in Park Road West. Said Bibi: “We have consolidated our position here in Wolverhampton and the time is right to expand the Jon Pugh brand. “We are well-known and respected for our clinical excellence and from that point of strength are currently in negotiations to transplant our successful business model into other areas.” Total Implant Solutions is partnering Birmingham’s Smile by Smile, the Smileworks brand and a number of other top-end aesthetic dentistry practices in the West Midlands, Shropshire, Staffordshire and the Wyre Forest areas. As part of the restructuring Bibi will be working closely with Parkside practice manager Vanessa Wilding. In combining the strengths of both managers, the aim is to bring the two practices into a closer working relationship and “to expand patient options.”

Jon Pugh BDS MSc (implant dentistry)

Leading implant dental practice expands.

Wolverhampton, Jon took the plunge in the summer of 2011 to set up a dedicated implant referral practice – a move he described as fulfilling his dream.

Wolverhampton implant dentist Jon Pugh BDS MSc (implant dentistry) is expanding his business in a drive to establish his marque in neighbouring counties and beyond.

Since then, Total Implant Solutions at the Parkdale Clinic on Wolverhampton’s Tettenhall Road has established itself as a platinum standard dental implants centre of excellence with principal Jon taking on extra clinicians and appointing fellow implantologist, Carl Horton BDS MSc (periodontology), a

After more than 20 years building his Parkside Dental Practice on Park Road West, 114

Vanessa said: “We have an excellent skills base with the dentists who work with us and can comfortably address the majority of dental issues presented. “Obviously, implants will remain the major focus of Jon’s referral practice at the Parkdale clinic and our special interest in orthodontics work will remain with Parkside. “We believe the patient experience at both practices is excellent and we continually audit the feedback in our drive to always deliver our very best. What we really want to do is share our great ‘going to the dentist’ experience with a wider audience.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Added Vanessa: “Our practice is relaxed, friendly and has properly defined skills in dealing with nervous patients.

Closer working relationships – practice manager at Parkside, Vanessa Wilding with Bibi Dodd, who is taking a general manager's role to oversee new developments with Total Implant Solutions and changes at the sister practice in Park Road West, Wolverhampton

“The joining of both practices is a great opportunity for us to grow and offer a wider range of services to the general public under the Jonathon Pugh Dental care umbrella.

“At a younger age, many patients are not suitable for implants, but want aesthetic dentistry to improve their smiles. Ortho treatment is just one of many options that can be employed.”

“We believe former patients, existing patients and new clients will all benefit from the fresh interaction between the two practices.” Parkside's knowledge of orthodontics (teeth straightening) is well respected throughout the Midlands and the practice currently enjoys one of the largest NHS ortho contracts in the region dealing primarily with children. But a growing trend of young adults seeking this form of dentistry is seeing more private ortho opportunities emerge within the practice. In an interview when Parkside Orthodontic Service dentist, Dr Elizabeth Roberts BDS MFGDP(UK) DipPCOrth RCS(Eng), was awarded the annual Practitioner Group Cases Prize for 2013 at the British Orthodontic Conference in September, she said: “Growing up as a teenager is hard enough these days without dealing with the issues of crooked or misaligned teeth. “In an image-conscious world transformations achieved by orthodontics along with other aesthetic procedures are proving popular with the mid-20s to 40s. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

“Caring for the smiles of these people is very rewarding and also families as we see children become young adults with great smiles. “There’s really no pressure, but I love sharing with potential new patients just what makes us different from many NHS practices.” Bibi added: “In just over three years the Total Implant Solutions’ growth has been excellent as we have put our message ‘out there’ with both business to business and direct marketing. I am now focussed on a robust campaign for Parkside so that people can get to know just how good the dental experience is there.”

How a single kiss sums up Jon’s

career dream

The creative power of implant dentistry has, quite literally, the potential to change lives.

“After replacing her lost teeth with implants, she returned to the surgery to tell us she’d enjoyed her first kiss and was claiming back her lost years as a confident, happy woman.

Recalling the launch of Total Implant Solutions, Jon Pugh BDS MSc (implant dentistry) said nothing summed up better his career dream of running an implants referral practice than the clinical outcome of a 21-year-old woman whose life had been “put on hold” after losing three front teeth, aged nine.

“The use of implants and their accessibility to ordinary people facilitates not only dentistry with very predictable outcomes, but offers real potential to improve looks and lives,” added Jon.

“She was injured in a road accident and for 12 years had worn a denture. For many that’s not a problem, but for her it seriously impacted on the quality of her life. “Her youth had been stolen, she’d never had the confidence to date and never had a first kiss. We were all affected by her story. Her life had been put on hold.

After treating the woman back in 2011, Jon took Total Implant Solutions to the Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton, where the practice has enjoyed unprecedented success, winning status as a Centre of Excellence and securing the rarely-awarded Straumann Dental Implant System Platinum status, an acknowledgement of clinical excellence and practitioner knowledge.

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5 TOP TIPS

for glowing skin this autumn

We are waving goodbye to summer and saying hello to autumn. The early mornings are much darker and that glorious evening sun doesn’t last as long as it did. Believe it or not the change from summer to autumn can play havoc on your skin, so we thought we would share some of our favourite autumn skin care tips with you. There are so many factors that affect skin health and seasonal changes are one of those that shouldn’t be ignored. Of course, most of us are familiar with the usual factors that can contribute to your skin looking tired such as stress, dehydration, diet and harsh weather that cause all sorts of problems to our skin. So without further ado here are our 5 top autumn skin care tips:

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you used in the summer may not be suitable for the rapid change in temperatures. Try using a good, rich and nourishing moisturiser packed full of natural goodness to help keep your skin looking vibrant. This will also prevent your skin from drying out and becoming flaky.

1. Wrap Up Warm This one may seem obvious but keeping as much of your body wrapped up away from the autumnal elements can be a key factor in keeping your skin in great condition. Hats and scarves are a great way to keep you facial skin wrapped up and protected and gloves will protect your hands from drying and cracking.

3. Avoid Hot Showers or Baths As tempting and as enjoyable as it is to jump into a hot shower on a cold autumn day, don’t. Bathing in hot water breaks down the lipid barriers in your skin, which can cause a loss in moisture. Instead, try having warmer showers or baths and why not add some essential oils to help you relax and leave your skin feeling soft.

2. Change Your Skin Care routine Your daily skin care routine should change slightly for the autumn. Using the same light natural beauty products

4. Stay Hydrated We tend to drink less water in the winter because we turn to hot drinks like cocoa and tea, but don’t forget that your skin needs hydration

from the inside, out. A little warm water with lemon can be very refreshing and hydrating at the same time. 5. Don’t Hibernate A beautiful skin is a healthy skin. It is easy to opt for slumping in front of the TV with snacks in the colder months but don’t forget to eat the right foods and get your daily work-out in too. Eat nutritious healthy seasonal food and enjoy the great outdoors or a trip to the gym with friends. These activities will boost your endorphins, lift your spirits and ensure you will feel great. For further information on how you can stay on top of your health please visit www.paycare.org or call 01902 252 265.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

A Paycare plan helps you to reclaim money spent on health care. Cover starts from as little as £6.25 per month with your first premium FREE!

Easy healthcare cash plans to Recover the cost of healthcare A Paycare cash plan makes every day healthcare affordable; so you can focus on getting the treatment when you need it and not when you can afford it. For a small monthly premium you are protected against the cost of Dental, Optical, Chiropody, Specialist Consultation and Tests, professional Therapies, Hospital Cover and much more. All plans include a 24 hour counselling and help line service for when that extra support or advice is needed.

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A Paycare plan is useful for both day to day healthcare and those unexpected emergencies that crop up from time to time.

Individuals 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.

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.

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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 252 265

www.paycare.org *First months premium free offer ends 31st Dec 2015.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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TRENDS Like so much of mens fashion, when it comes to trainers anything goes from leather high-tops to retro tennis plimsolls. There is so much to choose from and certainly the offer goes a lot further than Adidas and Puma. So if you are looking for something different then look out for: Android Homme, Creative Recreation and Filling Pieces. So forget reaching for the same old sneakers, it’s time to try something new. With an expanding footwear portfolio visit Diffusion in Wolverhampton, Merry Hill Centre, Telford or Walsall, or online at diffusiononline.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Home of the Biggest Loser Chris Jewkes Fitness has quickly become the premier personal training centre in the area. The club offers memberships and classes like any other, but the real difference is the array of bespoke personal training programmes on offer.

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Simply Dentures:

creating beauty in every smile

Mr Peter Brookes DipCDT. GDC No.124429

Have you lost confidence in your smile? Have you ever tripped over an invisible brick in the street or found your skirt tucked-in after a quick toilet stop? No one likes embarrassing situations and we know they always happen when we least expect it. Having dentures that may embarrass you by dropping out during an important family meal or that are just plain worn out is something no one wants. Perhaps this hasn’t happened to you yet, but you know that your dentures just don’t feel right? If so, here’s what you can do about it. One option is to apply loads of fixative and hope for the best and never seek professional help. This never gets to the root of the problem and won’t improve your situation in the long term. Alternatively, you could choose to join the growing number of people who seek help at Simply Dentures. We enjoy the challenge of improving the appearance, fit and function of our client’s dentures. It may mean that new dentures are required. If so, we are able to provide this for anyone requiring either partial or complete prosthesis. Sometimes it may only require a reline of a denture; a look into other stabilisation options - such as implants - or possibly just an aesthetic makeover option. One client had recently been given new dentures elsewhere, but was upset by the final appearance 120

provided. She felt the upper teeth were way too long and when she came to us we had to agree. It took just a couple of hours at Simply Dentures to adapt her denture to disguise her teeth, making them look smaller. When finished the patient was delighted and commented on how happy she was. In this case, all that was required was a little thought and a few hours work with the existing denture and the result was one smiling patient. To trust someone with your smile is a big undertaking and we understand this. In order to give you confidence in what we do, we offer you a free consultation. If you would like more information before an appointment then please check out our website or call and we can send you our latest information pack. Mr Peter Brookes is our lead Clinical Dental Technician. He has over 15 years’ experience as a technician. His last 6 years have been spent within a private denture clinic, which has given him great insight into the manufacture of high quality dentures. His firm belief that you should be involved and informed throughout every stage of construction will assure you that you will get the smile you deserve. With years of training and experience our team aims to provide you with dentures that help you overcome the challenging problems you face. Our clinic offers warm, welcoming facilities for all; easy ground floor access; three ground floor surgeries; a car park to the rear and friendly staff. There is even a Patient Lounge where you can wait while we repair your dentures; designed specifically so that you won’t be seen out and about without your teeth! We will do what we can to help overcome any issues you may face to make your journey to your new smile as smooth as possible.

Should you require a denture repair, reline or cleaning service then this is available too. See our website for more information: www.simplydentures.net or call for a free information pack on 01902 420654. wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Simply Confident, Simply Natural...

Simply Dentures

Telephone 01902 420654

Working with

Total Implant Solutions

for a complimentary consultation 82 Tettenhall Road Wolverhampton WV1 4TF www.simplydentures.net

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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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 in our refurbished modern surgery please call Tom Casey on 07828 613165 or 01902 833426 For other surgery appointments please call or visit: Evenett & Bishop Opticians 67 High Street Albrighton WV7 3JA 01902 372141 Six Ways Clinic 24 Birmingham Road Walsall WS1 2LT 01922 622521

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Foot Care for People with Diabetes

Tom’s tip:

People with diabetes have to take special care of their feet.

•

Examine your shoes every day for cracks, pebbles, nails, toys, or anything that could hurt your feet, and remove.

You should have a comprehensive foot examination every year done by your Chiropodist/Podiatrist. This is to check your circulation, nerves, and state of your feet.

•

Attend a regular 6-8 weekly appointment with your Chiropodist/Podiatrist.

Itemised below are some more things you can do to keep your feet healthy. •

Wash your feet in lukewarm water every day.

•

Dry your feet well, especially between the toes.

•

Ask your diabetes care team how you should care for your toenails.

•

Keep the skin soft with a moisturising lotion, but do not apply between the toes.

•

Inspect your feet every day for cuts, bruises, blisters, or swelling. Tell your Chiropodist/Podiatrist/ GP right away if you find something wrong.

•

Wear clean, soft socks that fit you.

•

Keep your feet warm and dry. Always wear shoes that fit well.

•

NEVER walk barefoot indoors or outdoors.

If you have more concerns about your foot care please feel free to contact your Chiropodist/ Podiatrist who can give you a reassuring response.

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Inheritance TAX

boost to home owners

Many homeowners will be breathing a sigh of relief after the Government announced plans to increase the threshold for inheritance tax in the emergency Budget in July. The much hoped for hike is good news for people who could have left their families facing a large bill on their death due to the boom in house prices over the years. Margaret Rowe, a Partner in the Wills, Probate and Lifetime Planning team for award winning Wolverhampton law firm FBC Manby Bowdler, explained what the changes mean. “A review of inheritance tax was long overdue so this is very welcome news for people who have worked hard to own their property. “A family home is often the single largest asset anyone can leave to their family on their death. Before this decision, they may have inadvertently been leaving their family liable for a large tax bill after their death because their home had increased in value over the years, taking them over the tax threshold. 124

“The Chancellor George Osborne announced his intention to increase the inheritance tax (IHT) threshold from £325,000 per person to £500,000, by adding a new family home allowance worth £175,000. “This means that married couples and civil partners will be able to pass on assets worth up to £1m, including a family home, without paying any inheritance tax at all. This is a saving, at the maximum level, in inheritance tax of £140,000. “The move will be gradual with the tax-free threshold moving up by £100,000 in 2017-18, and then rising by £25,000 in each subsequent year, to reach £500,000 in 2020. “Inheritance tax will continue on the value of an estate above the tax-free threshold so anyone who owns a property or other assets that takes them individually over £500,000 or jointly over £1 million will still be charged inheritance tax at 40% for every £1 over £1 million.”

Margaret added: “All of this news is very positive for the majority of homeowners. But people should still be getting specialist advice to ensure that their estate and assets are protected as best it can be in light of the impending changes.” Margaret specialises in all aspects of wills and probate work and elderly client matters, including estate planning and succession. Her experience means that she can advise on the full range of private client matters from Court of Protection work to Inheritance Tax Planning. Margaret is a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and also a member of Solicitors For the Elderly (SFE). She can be contacted on 01952 208433 or m.rowe@fbcmb.co.uk

In a move designed to encourage down-sizing and free up larger properties by older owners, people will also be allowed to sell a larger house, but retain the relief from inheritance tax, providing the bulk of their estate is left to direct descendants. wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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Wolverhampton WV2 4BZ

WOLVERHAMPTON HIP

& KNEE CLINIC

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

MR DAVID SIMPSON CONSULTANT ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON

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

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Education

and Schooling

by David Williams – Headmaster of Tettenhall College Tettenhall College sees German, Spanish, Italian and French children as young as 10 coming here for periods of a term to a year to enhance their education in a boarding school, living in a foreign country whilst studying in a language other than their own. I am pleased that they bring so much to our UK classrooms but ultimately worry that this would currently be a rarity at secondary age for English pupils and yet these Europeans will ultimately compete with our children in a global job market.

My summer holiday took me to the Northern coast of France in Brittany which, whilst the rest of France was basking in tropical heat, managed to stubbornly reproduce a climate not dissimilar to that of the West Midlands. This did not detract from the pleasures of the magnificent coastline nor its restaurants, all of which seem to offer up great value and quality as a norm rather than an exception. Another benefit was the opportunity to chat and communicate in French with local people which, as a languages teacher, is something I naturally seek out when crossing the channel if indeed you are able to get to the other side! 126

The last point is notable for a number of reasons as recent trips to France have resulted in strange conversations where waitresses or car hire staff stubbornly refuse to communicate in any other language other than English despite my (admittedly ordinary) command of their language. There surely ought to be an unwritten rule whereby any attempt by a foreigner to speak in a language in another country ought to be encouraged, praised and, at the very least, tolerated. After all, we Brits need every bit of help in this department where the easy fall back of “everyone speaks English” deprives us of a great skill and damages our reputation abroad. Of course, the perception of the importance of English outside these shores means that other countries are placing greater emphasis on language acquisition and developing their skills accordingly. A recent trend at

All this is happening with a backdrop of declining numbers studying languages at A-level and beyond, the closure of university departments, the optional study of languages at GCSE and the “dispensability” of languages for those who encounter difficulty elsewhere in the curriculum. A long forgotten proposal-and one I support-from an enquiry led by Sir Trevor McDonald was that a GCSE language ought to be required for university entrance. On a more encouraging note, when meeting parents the will and desire are there for children to be given the opportunity to enjoy and develop their skills as people see the many benefits of learning a language. The independent school sector, including Tettenhall College, has rightly stood against the trend of devaluing modern foreign languages in the curriculum and depriving pupils of this reward and challenge. From a personal point of view I can only vouch for the kick I still get 30 years later of actually using a subject I learnt at school when conversing with a French couple about the latest farmers’ strikes while enjoying a delicious menu du jour for 13 euros.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Molly, Year 4 Forest School

take a closer look...

Open Morning Saturday 26th September 2015 10.00am - 1.00pm

A unique atmosphere with remarkable opportunities, where every pupil achieves their personal best. To reserve your place please contact admissions@tettcoll.co.uk or telephone 01902 751119.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Spooktacular SUSSED

Affordable School Holiday Activities this October

The programmes are available at Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne. Some of the activities on offer include: • Gymnastics • Diddi Cars • Visits from The Animal Man • Fizz Pop Science • Mini Beast Adventures

• • • • •

Affordable Prices Local, Friendly and Convenient Great Range of Activities No Block Booking, Just Pay As You Go Parents can ‘Drop and Go’ or ‘Stay and Spectate’

Cut out your FREE voucher below…

FREE SUSSED PASS Valid 26th - 30th October 2015. Voucher must be presented at reception. You must be aged 5-12 yrs to use this voucher. 1 voucher per person, per offer. Voucher can be redeemed on any October SUSSED session up to the value of £3.80. Vouchers can be cancelled at any time. Vouchers have no cash value.



Plus there’s plenty on offer in the swimming pools from fun time and public sessions to the inflatables.

Why Choose South Staffordshire Council for your School Holiday Provisions?



South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres are offering fun filled programmes this October half term (Monday 26th - Friday 30th October) to entertain children aged 5-12 year olds during the school holiday.

Name……………………....................................................... Date………………................................................................. Centre…………………..........................................................

For more information visit www.sstaffs.gov.uk/sussed

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Wolverhampton West Magazine Sept/Oct 2015 Edition

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

A year of outstanding success for Newbridge Preparatory School Newbridge Preparatory School is celebrating a year of outstanding success as their sixteen Year Six girls received their final offers for senior schools for September 2015. Statistically, it is one of the school’s most successful years: • 40 offers of senior school places for 16 girls • 17 scholarships and awards • 50% state funded grammar school places The Year Six girls also celebrated further achievements in their Key Stage Two SATs. The girls also achieved a Newbridge first… 100% of the girls achieving a level 5 in reading, a level expected of pupils two years older. The 2015 SATs results were exceptional, with 94% of the results being at Level 5 or 6 overall. Level 6 papers are only intended to be sat by pupils who are exceptionally able in English

and/or maths; with Level 6 being achieved by only top 1% nationally. Mrs Fisher, Headmistress since September 2012, commented: “We are very proud of all of our girls' achievements. Not only have they been highly successful in academic examinations into senior schools, they have also gained entry to some of the most selective independent schools in the West Midlands and Birmingham areas; achieving scholarships and awards in music, sport, drama and performing arts. This is testament to our primary school specialism – the only standalone ‘prep’ school in Wolverhampton. “The Year Six girls and all the staff involved deserve congratulations

Mrs Fisher, Headmistress

on all they have achieved. The girls have created themselves some fantastic options! What a super year it has been for the girls and proof that Newbridge is 100% dedicated to helping each and every girl find the very best senior school for them as an individual whilst also focusing on delivering a broad, balanced and exciting curriculum. “We wish our Year Six girls every success and happiness as they start their senior school education at their chosen school in September 2015”.

Newbridge has limited spaces available across the school for some year groups. If you are interested in helping your daughter achieve choices at 11+ for senior schools, please contact Miss Julia Taylor (Admissions Registrar) at jtaylor@newbridgeprepschool.org.uk or telephone 01902 751088.

An independent school for girls aged 2 to 11

Inspirational Education – Aspirational Individuals A small, personal school specialising in high quality Early Years and Primary Education

‘Dare to dream it... Work to achieve it’

Creating choices for you daughter at 11+

Every Day is an Open Day - To make an appointment please contact jtaylor@newbridgeprepschool.org.uk or telephone 01902 751088 www.newbridgeprepschool.org.uk 51 Newbridge Crescent, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 0LH www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Learn to Swim with South Staffordshire’s

Swim Academy Learning how to swim is a crucial life skill and one that everyone regardless of their age should learn to do.

South Staffordshire’s Swim Academy offers local people of all ages the opportunity to learn to swim for health, safety and for fun.

The academy which operates at all four of South Staffordshire’s leisure centres has a lot to offer: • High quality swimming tuition at affordable prices • Lessons from 3yrs up to adults • Beginners and non-swimmers to advanced standards • Good teacher/child ratios • Lessons run throughout the whole year to ensure continual progression • Assistants in the water to aid weaker classes and give additional support for swimmers What else makes us special? • Our swim teachers are professionally trained • We follow the STA’s international Learn to Swim programme – one of the most successful ranges of learn to swim and aquatic courses in the world • Above all, we make learning to swim fun, progressive, inclusive, safe and affordable. This means that everybody is: • Encouraged to enjoy themselves • Motivated to improve • Taught step by step with rewards at every level • Supervised within a safe environment • Given the opportunity to develop all four swimming strokes What’s more, those who enrol get: • Free swimming for those that pay by Direct Debit • Free success tracker • One to one lessons available on request (extra charge)

NEW ENROLMENTS BEING TAKEN FROM 5th October FOR ONE WEEK ONLY *Places limited and sold on a first come, first served basis

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FREE Child Swim Pass Voucher valid until 31st October 2015 Terms and Conditions: Voucher offers 1 free swim during a public session - Voucher cannot be redeemed against swimming lessons - Child to parent ratios apply in the water - please contact reception for full details and for swimming times - 1 voucher per person, per offer - Voucher must be presented at reception. Name……………………................................................................... Postcode……………………... Date………....................…………… Leisure Centre…………………...................................................... Wolverhampton West Magazine September/October 2015

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

•D O

R ST

IS I

M INU S•F RU

O P E N D AY

R e c e p t i o n t o Ye a r 1 3 Friday, 18 September 10 am – 3 pm Saturday, 19 September 10 am – 1:30 pm

al ision L P ro v HOO E SC 016 FRE 2 G NIN e rOPE emb -Sep

w w w. t h e r o y a l s c h o o l . c o . u k Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV3 0EG Admissions: mo@royal.wolverhampton.sch.uk Telephone: 01902 341230

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Second national award for

leading girls’ School school. The judges commented that it was "good to see sport given such a place in school". Shrewsbury High School is extremely proud of both awards and will be building on this prestigious national recognition with another ambitious and exciting year ahead across both Prep and Seniors. A new Astroturf training pitch will once again push boundaries with integrated hi-tech cameras, enabling pupils to play back their performances and drills, as they seek further sporting improvement with our coaches. SHS Senior girls celebrating the Education Business Sports Award (from l-r) Issy Urquhart, Tabi Sherratt, Jodie Lonergan, Charlotte Jones, Eloise Heaney & Issy Jefferies

A prestigious Independent School Award in 2014 has been a catalyst for a continued drive towards sporting success at Shrewsbury High School, with the School winning the Sports Award at the 2015 Education Business Awards - unprecedented recognition for any school in Shropshire. Judges at the Education Business Awards said that "the range of sporting activities undertaken at Shrewsbury is huge. Of particular note is the success in International Karate of Sophie Vingoe, who last year won gold in the Kawata Cup in Kobe, Japan.” This award cited the wide variety of sports scholarships available, and the national and international success of several of its pupils. "Among its superb facilities, the school’s gymnastics academy benefits pupils, as do regular visits to the Team GB training facilities in Lilleshall. This has been underlined by recent success in regional competitions". 132

The School's Elite Athlete programme that sees pupils attend workshops covering nutrition, sports psychology, injury prevention and time management was also praised. Sports leadership courses help to foster a teamwork ethos, as does involvement with the Sky Sports Leadership Project.

This new facility will be utilised by Senior School girls as well as boys and girls at the prep school, who also have a very exciting year ahead as they welcome their new Head of prep school, Mrs Millichamp. Mrs Millichamp joins Shrewsbury High Prep from Wolverhampton Grammar and has exciting plans for the enhancement of the prep’s all-round offer, extension of the provision for Senior Boys and the further enhancement of the use of ICT in teaching and learning.

Shrewsbury High School was the The Senior School Open Day first school in the county to be takes place on Saturday 10th shortlisted for an Independent October with the Prep Open School Award and the first Morning held on Wednesday school in Shropshire to actually 14th October. The Sixth Form win one. The award recognises the outstanding sporting Information Evening takes place provision and collaborative work on Monday 9th November. For undertaken, especially at the comore information, please contact ed prep school, with maintained admissions@shr.gdst.net sector schools. The school opens its gates throughout the year for football, cross country, cricket and netball tournaments with over 600 visiting pupils taking part in competitive Year 4 rugby players will be hoping for more sport at sporting success under their new Head the prep wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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Social Scene

Wolverhampton Racecourse 1. Lax Braitch, Sam Braitch, Anita Dudrah, Ranjit Dudrah. 2. Jaswant Bahia, Polly Takhar, Kamaljit Gill, Amarjit Nijjer.

The 14th Black Country Asian Business Awards took place at Wolverhampton Racecourse, it was attended by overÂ 590 people and included guest speaker the Co-Founder and Managing Director of KTC Edibles, Jindy Khera. The Main award winner was Gill Group.

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3. Peter Smith, Ninder Johal. 4. Paul Brown, Preet Gill. 5. Arvinder Kaur, Priyanka Kakkar, Kuljit Shokar. 6. Harminder Singh, Raj Gill, Amarjit Shokar. 7. Pinder Dhaliwal, Stuart Smith, Raminder Dosanjh. 134

Book a FREE 10 minute one-to-one chat with a consultant at our next cosmetic event on Tuesday 13th October 2015. Please call 01902 275211 to book your place.

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Social Scene

1 2

Charity Golf Day Wolverhampton Ex Wolves players held their 4th annual charity golf day on 21st August 2015 at The Wergs Golf Club. 20 teams took part with extra guests attending a 2 course dinner in The Clifford Suite. Entertainment was provided by ex-Liverpool and Welsh International footballer Joey Jones followed by impressionist Kevin Connolly best known for his appearance on BBCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dead Ringers. Our sincere thanks to all our sponsors and members of the public for supporting this annual event! www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

1. Steve & Lynda Daley, Martin Buchan. 2. b/r Neil Phillips, Roger Campbell, Mike Woodhouse, f/r Greg Jones, Archie Richards, David Grainger. 3. Chris & Sheila Edwards, Phil Parkes, Phil Nicholls. 4. b/r Alan Burgwin, Jeremy Nicholls, f/r Paul Burgwin, Kev McNish, John Birnie. 5. Joey Jones, Roger Titley, Geoff Palmer. 6. Nicola Briggs, Kerry Watkins. 7. John McGhee, Dean Gritton, Eamonn Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor. 8. Steve Burgwin, Bryn Robins, Mike Jones. 9. Mel Eves, Jason Guy. 135

Social Scene

Royston Blythe 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 136

Nick Malenko, Lisa Friend, Royston Blythe Carla Todd, Carol Friend, Jill Vasey, Vivienne Vasey Jan Humphries, Joanne Bridgwood, Chris Bennasciutti Caroline Bestwick, Lisa Friend, Yvonne O’Grady, Lisa Ogston Vicky Bowers, Emma Jeffs, Jodie Eagleton RB Shrewsbury Team Tracy Doughty, Chrystal, Angie Brookes Henry Doughty, Dave Brown, Tom Smith Jackie Taylor, Rita Mason Carla Todd, Nick Malenko, Sara Tunnicliff Kevin James, James Lloyd RB Wolverhampton Team Aaron Turner, Sarah Lloyd, Matt Swann, Kane Platt

More fun and frolics from the celebrity hairdresser. This time: a St Trinian’s-themed party to celebrate founding staff member and top colour technician Lisa Friend’s upcoming wedding. Never to be accused of allowing a party to drag, Royston himself dazzled as the Headmistress, while the rest of the staff – along with Butlers in the Buff, a drag queen and exotic dancers – dressed as the schoolchildren; playing team games, eating school dinners and partying long into the night.

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Social Scene

11 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

13 137

Social Scene

Park House Hotel Shifnal 1. Alex Montgomery, David Corfield, Simon Foulger, Christopher Harvey, Matthew Walsh, Simon Jordan. 2. Joe Lockley, Benjamin Thomas.

David Corfield Gymnasium celebrated their highly successful first year in business with a summer ball held at the Park House Shifnal. 7. Mary Nicholls, Katherine White, Hayley Blower, Harriet Harmer. 8. Deborah Williams, Dinah Joesephs, Leanne Anderson.

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3. Andrew Furber, Claire Furber, Alex Cave, Paul Mclean, Jane Mclean, Callum Mclean. 4. Linzi Jarratt, Deborah Williams, Gemma Morgan, Leanne Anderson. 5. Richard Walker, Kerri-Ann McGleenon, Joanne Clibborn. 6. Eva Leigh, Lucy Greenway, Nicole Pugh. 138

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wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Social Scene

Puerto Banus Spain

1. Brian & Sam Saunders.

This was one tough assignment! We met up with local Wolverhampton businessman Brian Saunders to celebrate his Special Birthday in style in Puerto Banus. Family and friends joined Brian and wife Sam for a few days in the sun, culminating with a fantastic evening meal at Restaurant El Gran Gatsby.

5. Jonny Harris, Emma Saunders.

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2. Stuart & Julie Pope, Jane & Sean Leo. 3. Andy & Tracy Simmons. 4. Adam & Karen Smith, Neil & Debbie Saunders, Bruce Saunders. 6. Scott & Sharon Murray, Carmine Scaringi, Sneeta & Mick Silverstone. 7. Geoff Hall, Gisella Wiley. 8. Paul & Karen Dittman, Laura & Rob Warden. 139

Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

Birchfield School Wolverhampton 1. Sally Fitton, Ceri Sedgley, Keith Sedgley, Adrian Wilcox, Paul Hughes, Chris Fitton, Claire Hughes, Shaun Western, Sally Western. 2. Kate Myott, Hugh Myott (Headmaster). 3. Jade Colton, Rob Clews, Gemma Griffiths (Secretary), Angelica Parkhouse (Vice Chair), Vicky Flavell, David Penn (Magician), Clare Norton (Chair), Alex Heath (Secretary), Torie Collinge, Sam Marshall (Treasurer). 4. Rebecca Core, Vicki Barchha, Neel Barchha, Geoff Core, Hannah Link. 5. Roy Skitt, Steve Coppell, Richard Harvey, Steve Lockley, Jon Marren. 6. Karl Parkinson, Sue Harding, Marie Lycett, Will Sherwin, Rebecca Sherwin. 7. Siobhan Thompson, Chris Marsh. 8. Aaron Griffiths, Rebecca Jones, Tabitha Jones, Helen Jones. 9. Kathy Manning, Gemma Edwards, Ann Widdowson, Trish Skitt, Emma Lane. 10. Tom Ryder, Tina Emery. 11. Lynn and Adam Sansom. 140

The Friends of Birchfield hosted the Birchfield Masquerade Summer Ball on Saturday 11th July. They raised an incredible figure in excess of ÂŁ11,000 on the night to be spent on projects such as finalising the LEGO Education centre within Birchfield. The Innovation Studio, in collaboration with LEGO Education will be the only centre within the area and one of only a few nationwide. The guests were treated to a spectacular evening of entertainment, including David Penn, illusionist, a previous Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Got Talent live finalist and The Revs live band, and DJ Steve. 12. Catherine Webb, Charlotte Crump, Tors Powell, Bekah Allen, Pamela Webb. 13. Clare Norton (Chair), David Penn (Magician), Hugh Myott (Headmaster). 14. Ian Anderson, Catherine Harbord, Robin Grayson.

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Book a FREE 10 minute one-to-one chat with a consultant at our next cosmetic event on Tuesday 13th October 2015. Please call 01902 275211 to book your place.

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 

               

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

       

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

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wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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prices correct at time of going to print 143

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www.excelelectrical.net 144

Email: info@excelelectrical.net wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

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145

WHY PAY DEALERSHIP PRICES TO SERVICE

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Units S1 & S2 Station Drive, Four Ashes, Wolverhampton WV10 7BU 146

01902 790123

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Are your brakes in a working condition? You use your brakes every time you drive so, as you can imagine, it’s very important they’re in tip-top working order.

2. Is your car pulling to one side when braking? This usually means a sticking or seized mechanical or hydraulic component. 3. Does the pedal feel spongy? Then there could be air in the hydraulic system due to a brake fluid leak.

4. When you press the pedal, does it pulsate? This could be a distorted brake disc or drum. Unfortunately this will need to be replaced. 5. Brake light glowing on your dashboard? It’s surprising how many people ignore this warning light. But if you see it, it’s time to take action. If you have any doubts, problems, concerns or worries, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team at HiQ Wolverhampton, we’ll even give you a free, no obligation brake assessment.

That’s why at HiQ Wolverhampton we have a team of motoring experts who can make sure your brakes are in optimal working condition. So what are your brakes? Brakes are made up of pads that squeeze against the brake discs to slow the car down. Over time they will wear away and will need replacing. It’s such a gradual process that you might not even notice. But there are some key things to look out for. 1. Tell-tale signs of brake problems: Can you hear a grinding noise when you apply the brakes? This could mean your brake pads are excessively worn and need replacing, along with any potential damaged discs.

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

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welded between the axles meaning the wheels are locked in position.

A smarter way to get from a to b:

the smart forrail Note: Do not try this at home…

The new smart forfour is a pretty effective pointto-point machine. It can drive from London to Aberdeen non-stop for as little as £39. Its four occupants will be comfy on the 540-mile journey too, even if they’re significantly taller than the car is wide. The smart forfour is tiny on the outside, yet clever engineering means its interior is vast and is packed with technology to help make the journey fun, relaxing and safe. It stands a good chance of being the ultimate commuting machine, were it not for one obvious rival. The forfour is reliant on roads, meaning the humble train has an obvious advantage in that it can get from point-to-point through a more direct route. When it comes to outright speed and ruthless efficiency, it’s one-nil to the train. Not all is lost, though. A lighthearted, one-off experiment by smart may have redressed the balance – the aim being to see if the two could be combined.

the tyres and placing it on tracks isn’t really possible in real life – the car would fall off almost immediately. Six months of engineering work and sophisticated CAD modelling later, the smart forrail is equipped with unique, solid steel wheels each measuring 22-inches in diameter and weighing 80 kg, allowing it the traction it needs on rails. Designed by Interfleet, a specialised British train engineering business based in Derby, the team – who usually work on 16-litre, 70-tonne diesel locomotives, had to employ a new approach to the challenge presented by a 999 cc, one-tonne smart. The agile steering, which in road use allows the smart forfour to handle as if it’s on rails, was disconnected by engineers, to allow it to handle being driven on rails. To avoid any steering movement, aluminium supports were

Under close supervision, the smart forrail tentatively took to the tracks at the weekend on the privately operated Bluebell Railway – providing a few, bemused commuters the chance to avoid the congested roads without having to leave the comfort of the compact four-seater. The 10mile stretch of railway, cutting a direct route through Sussex, represented a significant challenge for the smart forrail, and yet the smallest train on the tracks took the trip in its stride, and the regular enthusiasts (present for a model railway exhibition) somewhat by surprise. Despite challenging engineering obstacles, the experiment steadfastly refused to come off the rails. The best of both worlds were combined – albeit briefly – to create arguably the most efficient, and fun, commuting machine in the world. Shortly after, the forrail reverted back to its forfour, road-going alter ego – content with being spectacularly efficient, fun and ideal for commuting. On tarmac. Matthew Harris, General Manager of smart at Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, added “We have had the new smart forfour for a couple of months now and I’m nothing short of impressed. It’s a terrific model that really is the perfect ‘city’ car and has some incredible specifications to go with it that will really set your pulse racing. The smart forfour model is becoming a really popular car among our customers and with the different model lines there is a choice to suit anyone. Why not come and take a test drive? Call us today on 01902 393400 to book yours.”

Nicknamed the smart ‘forrail’, it might appear like a lightly modified smart forfour but it’s, in fact, a fully certified, mini-train. The smart’s tridion safety cell allows it immense strength, which underpins the forrail. No matter how simple Roger Moore made it look in his Mercedes-Benz 250 SE, removing

smart at Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV2 4HD 148

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

The all new smart forfour. EXCLUSIVE TO DRAYTON GROUP Additional exciting offer available Please quote SMT22

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Representative example for a smart forfour passion 71 hp (52 kw) hatchback manual solid paint* 48 Monthly Payments of £149

On the Road Price £11,620

Customer Deposit £149

Retailer Deposit Contribution £1,202.25

Total Deposit £1,351.25

Number of Payments 48 Months

Optional Final Payment £5,025

Amount of Credit £10,268.75

Total Amount Payable £13,538.25

Purchase Activation Fee £10

Fixed Interest Rate 6.11%

APR Representative 6.3%

Drayton Group smart at Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton Penn Road, Wolverhampton WV2 4HD 01902 276977 www.draytongroup.co.uk Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the smart range: urban 55.4(5.1)-58.9(4.8), extra urban 72.4(3.9)-76.4(3.7), combined 65.7(4.3)-68.9(4.1). CO2 emissions 99-93 g/km. *Quotations for the smart forfour models are based on a 4 year PCP at 7,000 miles. All quotations are subject to credit approval and vehicles must be credit approved and ordered between 01.07.2015 and 30.09.2015 and registered before 31.12.2015, subject to availability. **£149 insurance applicable to ages between 21-75 years of age and subject to terms and conditions of acceptance. Drayton Group may receive payment from Mercedes-Benz Financial Services. Excess mileage charges apply. Amount of dealer deposit allowance dependent on model. Finance available from Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Ltd, MK7 8ND. Model images shown for demonstration purposes only. Finance subject to status. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Drayton Group Ltd is a credit broker authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Class One

Rob Taylor visits Guest Motors in Willenhall to get the scoop on the latest Jeep Cherokee. Do you ever crave an alternative to the homogenised motoring landscape? Do you want to drive something like your neighbour’s SUV that is – perversely – entirely different to it, but are unsure about where to turn? If so, allow me to steer you gently along the Black Country route in the direction of Guest Motors in Willenhall and straight into the driver’s seat of the new Jeep Cherokee. Any of you who dismissively perceive it to be as American as apple pie better get ready to eat humble pie, since today’s big, bold, brash Jeep now boasts thoroughly European sensibilities. And yet it still represents a fun and faintly left-field choice that delivers considerably more bang for your buck. In a world of monochrome, pseudo-sophisticated German - and German-lite - crossover vehicles, the latest iteration of the Cherokee is a proper 4x4 that stands out on UK roads like a multi-coloured Mohawk in a job interview. Rich in transatlantic swagger, the Jeep looks like it’s full of the kind of braggadocio that makes for great American stereotyping, but don’t think that just because the Cherokee’s exterior still retains touches of its spiritual homeland – as in the case of its chromed alloys and gurning front grille – that it’s a car ill-suited to modern Britain, because it’s not. There’s no stonking great V8 napping under the hood. Nor is there any ensuing heinous thirst for the black stuff that runs through JR Ewing’s veins. The Limited 150

model that I’m driving is actually a diesel: and it’s a very refined, modern and European (the Jeep brand is today owned by Fiat) diesel engine to boot. This newly launched 2.2 litre 197 bhp four-pot is mated to a savvy and quick-thinking 9-speed automatic gearbox that is good for a very respectable 49.6 mpg; and it spews out just 150 g/km of Co2. Beyond the numbers, however, you’ll find a car which protects, flatters and coddles its driver to the nth degree: with a permanent four-wheel drive system, this Cherokee is sure-footed in all weather like a mountain goat; a five-star Euro NCAP rating makes it among the safest in its class too; it features Adaptive Cruise Control Plus, which helps monitor and maintain and safe distance between you and the vehicle in front, and it’ll even auto-apply the brakes if you like to ignore parking sensor beeps and play chicken with the lamppost you are parking beside. I like to do this a lot. From atop a high-driving position there is exceptional visibility and a real sense of interior space, especially when the optional ‘Commandview’ dual-pane panoramic sunroof is deployed. Furthermore there’s myriad kit to keep you comfy and entertained, including: heated – and vented – Nappa leather seats; a premium Alpine sound system; reversing camera; auto rain-sensing wipers; bi-Xenon headlights; a power tailgate and – most useful of all nowadays – a wireless charging pod for your mobile phone. The cabin is stylish and plush; everything is wellmade and satisfying to touch and

the infotainment system, which includes Bluetooth and Sat-Nav, is intuitively designed and easy to use. As a driver’s tool the Jeep has much to recommend it as well: it will cruise effortlessly along motorways and fast stretches of A-road, surfing an immediate wave of 440 Nm torque; it has a relaxed and comfy ride quality; and only minimal road and wind noise creeps into the cabin. 0-60 mph comes up in a creditable 8.7 seconds and top speed is 126 mph. This ample power makes for an engine that never seems taxed or underwhelming; gear changes are smooth, barely noticeable and designed with economy in mind. Prices start from just under £26,000 for a front-wheel drive version (model tested: £36,795) and that’s outstanding value, given what little is on offer from the competition at that price-point. Buy an equivalent German marque and for that I doubt it’d contain seats. Or doors. Or even a steering wheel. Like the dealer experience I received at Guest Motors, the big Jeep is in a class of its own. And I heartily suggest that you let your desire to be different take you nowhere else.

To book a test drive or for further information please contact Guest Wolverhampton on 01902 544200. Armstrong Way, Willenhall, West Midlands WV13 2QU. wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

YOUR LIFE IS NOT A COMMUTE. Just because you know where you’re going, doesn’t mean you can’t take the scenic route. So, wherever your journey takes you, it’s built to get you there. Buy a new Jeep Cherokee from now until 30th September and get a £2,000 Jeep Deposit Contribution^. Just £299 a month† at 0% APR Representative. The New Jeep Cherokee.

Call us today to arrange a Test Drive: Guest Wolverhampton, Armstrong Way, Willenhall, West Midlands WV13 2QU. Tel: 01902 544 200 www.guests.co.uk

Model shown New Jeep Cherokee 2.2 Longitude Plus 185hp 4WD 9 Speed Automatic at £33,045 OTR. OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR THE NEW JEEP® CHEROKEE DIESEL RANGE IN MPG (L/100KM): EXTRA URBAN 53.3 (5.3) - 61.4 (4.6), URBAN 37.7 (7.5) - 44.1 (6.4), COMBINED 46.3 (6.1) - 53.3 (5.3), CO2 EMISSIONS: 160 TO 139 G/KM. Fuel consumption

and CO2 figures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance with EC directives/regulations and may not be representative of real-life driving conditions. Factors such as driving style, weather and road conditions may also have a significant effect on fuel consumption. †Customer deposit is £4,999. Optional Final Payment is £11,993. Contract Term is 48 months. Promotion available on new Cherokee 2.2 Longitude Plus 185hp 4WD 9 Speed Automatic registered by 30th September 2015. ^Jeep Deposit Contribution only available in conjunction with Jeep Horizon PCP. With Jeep Horizon you have the option to return the vehicle and not pay the final payment, subject to the vehicle not having exceeded an agreed annual mileage (a charge of 12p per mile for exceeding 10,000 miles per annum in this example) and being in good condition. Finance subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Terms and Conditions apply. At participating Dealers only. Jeep Financial Services, PO BOX 4465, Slough, SL1 0RW. We work with a number of creditors including Jeep Financial Services. Prices and specifications correct at time of going to print (07/15). To find out more please visit jeep. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk 151 co.uk. Jeep® is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC.

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wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel Image Luxury Travel 89 Perton & Bridgnorth Travel 71 Appliances Electrical & Gas Capital Appliances 47 Bathrooms Carvers Building Supplies 19 Eaton Kitchens 31 Kitchen & Bedroom Techniques 37 Roman Bathrooms 29 Wall Heath Bathrooms 33 Beauty Beauty Rooms 99 Cleopatra’s 89 Beauty Clinics – Cosmetic Medi Visage 91 Ultra Slim 106 Beds & Bedroom Furniture Chasewood 45 Interiors Italia 38/39 Kitchen & Bedroom Techniques 37 Merridale Furnishers 13 Woodrobes 21 Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Castle Blinds 33 Creative Interiors 29 Merridale Furnishers 13 Val Hever Blinds 40 Virgo 41 Building Merchants OCL 62 Building Services & Contractors Build a Solution 53 Three Pines 35 Butchers Allan Bennett 63 Poxons 68 R J Hipkiss & Sons 70 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists Blyth Group 26 Touch Dry 50 Carpets & Flooring - Supply & Fit Virgo Carpets & Interiors 41 Car Sales & Service Barlow Seat 155 Church Road Motors 152 Guest Motors 151 Smart at Mercedes-Benz 149 of Wolverhampton Children’s Charity Promise Dreams 65 Chiropody & Podiatry Tom Casey 122 Clocks - Bespoke Bad Dog Designs 40 Composite Doors Doorsmart 49 Computer Services Finchfield IT 54 Delicatessen Corbelli 71 Dentistry Parkside Dental Surgery 105 Simply Dentures 121 Total Implant Solutions 2 Debt Collection Services JB Credit Services 145 Design & Print The Studio 55 Diet & Slimming Cambridge Diet 89 Dog Wash Facilities Codsall & Wergs Garden Centre 57 Education Newbridge School 129 Oldbury Wells 131 Tettenhall College 127 The Shrewsbury School 133 The Royal School 131

Electricians & Electrical Contractors Excel Electrical Contractors 144 Electrical Goods Suppliers Geo-E-Davies 52 Entertainment & Leisure Civic Hall – Gino D’Acampo 71 Patshull Park 75 Wergs Golf Club 79 Estate Agents Berriman Eaton 9 Fashion & Retail Aristocats 92/93 Diffusion - Ladies 94/95 Diffusion – Men 118 Grand Central 17 Fencing & Gates Profence 61 Fireplaces & Stoves Flaming Fires 21 Wolverhampton Fireplaces 13 Fitness & Leisure Centres Chris Jewkes Fitness 119 South Staffordshire Leisure 128/130 Florists Buds of Tettenhall 86 Funeral Directors M Jackson & Son 52 Furniture & Furnishings Blyth Group 27 Creative Interiors 29 Chasewood Interiors 45 Interiors Italia 38/39 Merridale Furnishers 13 Sofa Factory Outlet 11 Virgo Carpets & Interiors 41 Garage Services Church Road Motors 152 Four Ashes Renault 146 HiQ Tyres 147 Rock Garage 152 Garden Design Boningale Garden Creations 59 Garden Furniture Hillcrest Leisure Products 58 Gardening & Landscaping Ben Farmer 56 Codsall & Wergs Garden Centre 57 Lealans Garden Centre 61 Glass & Hardware Specialists Tech Alum System 43 Golf Clubs & Driving Ranges Wergs Golf Club 143 Patshull Park 75/88 Hairdressers Ego 108/109 Salon 27 103 Health Care Cover Paycare 117 Hospices Compton Hospice 69 Hospitals - Private Nuffield 101 Independent Financial Advisers Midland Financial Services 14/15 Insect Screens Safe Screen 56 Interior Designers Creative Interiors 29 Virgo Carpets & Interiors 41 Italian Deli Corbelli’s 71 Jewellers T.A.Henn 7 Kitchen Doors - Replacement Dream Doors 25

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Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit Carvers Building Supplies 19 Dream Doors 25 Eaton Kitchens 31 Kitchen & Bedroom Techniques 37 Roman Bathrooms 29 Legal Services Manby Bowdler Solicitors 125 Letting Agents Berriman Eaton 9 Libraries Wolverhampton Libraries 112 Locksmiths Cummings Brothers 145 Loft Ladders The Loft Ladder Company 53 Lyndale 51 Log Supplies Manor Logs 52 Luxury Travel Image Luxury Travel 89 Mobility Equipment JR Wooddisse 123 Music Lessons Rick Hampton 55 Opticians Taylor Biddle 113 Orthopaedic Surgery Wolverhampton Hip & Knee Clinic 125 Oven Cleaning Services OvenClean 53 Painters & Decorators Kevin Jackson 144 Photography Crescent Imaging 86 Plumbing & Heating JB Plumbing & Heating 144 Private English Tuition Laurence Dalton 55 Property Maintenance JC Property Maintenance 145 Restaurants/Pubs 3 Hammers Bar & Bistro 78 Bravaccios 79 Halfpenny Green Vineyards 72 Kings Repose 78 Patshull Park 75/88 Shrewsbury Arms 74 Sir Jack’s 73 Wergs Golf Club 74/79 Wombourne Tandoori 81 Skip Hire Wolverhampton Skip Hire 145 Stairs & Stair Components Lyndale 51 Tea Rooms Halfpenny Green Vineyards 72 Himley Hall 83 Theatres The Grand Theatre 156 Tiles & Interiors Heart of Stone 51 Tile Choice 5 Tyres Hi Q Tyres 147 Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Vineyards 72 Wedding Venues & Function Rooms Albrighton Hall 87 Himley Hall 83 Patshull Park 88 Wergs Golf Club 79 Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C. 85 Windows & Conservatories Tettenhall Windows 23 153

SEAT IBIZA a motoring icon Youthful spirit has always been the beating heart of the SEAT Ibiza.

A CONTEMPORARY CROWD PLEASER. But always a classic.

A car that fizzes with fun while laying down some serious performance. And now the SEAT Ibiza continues in the same groove. But how do you improve a classic?

Isn’t it great when you get everything just right? For the Ibiza five door that means creating the perfect blend of versatility and desirability. Ingredients that are adhered to when creating this classic. Honing them into the perfect mix with optional bi-xenon headlights and front and rear LED lights*, distinctive design lines, bumpers, front grille, and a choice of alloy wheels and colours. This car represents innovation and high quality specs, but it’s the same fun, sporty, practical, versatile and trend setting SEAT Ibiza that you’ve known for over 30 Years.

PERFECTLY IN TUNE. The Ibiza is sharper and more dynamic than ever. Taut lines respect its sporty nature, and the front end has a definite glint of mischief in its headlights. Inside it’s just as sharp. Unmistakable quality and attention to detail enhance an already thrilling ride, as does cutting edge technology. On the road the racy three-door SC, gutsy five-door hatch, and versatile ST estate are driven by a state-of-the-art range of engines, combining impressive environmental performance with sheer exhilaration.

154

MORE BEATS PER MINUTE. It’s what SC really stands for. SC stands for Sport Coupé. and the Ibiza SC is the three-door variant of the Ibiza. In other words, it stands for thrilling performance and eyecatching style. And the Ibiza SC certainly lives up to its name.

dynamic styling. The honeycomb front grille, lowered front air intake, and sharper looking headlights give the Ibiza a signature style that’s more ‘Ibiza’ than ever. And the FR version ups the tempo even further, with its accentuated lines and extra details, like the large front fog lights with cornering function. The Ibiza SC is made to make your heart beat faster.

NOW WITH ADDED IBIZA. More of what you love. Feeling spontaneous? The Ibiza ST is the estate variant of the Ibiza and is always ready. It’s already up and running with Ibiza DNA, but has the extra capacity to take on board all the essentials that you need to make life interesting. Whether it’s something for the weekend, a small hobby or a great adventure, the ST can always accommodate the things that come along and demand some extra attention. But bigger still means beautiful. And with its sporty looks and stylish details, the FR demands some attention of its own. But don’t be fooled, those sleek lines can still swallow all the extra stuff and steal the show at the same time.

With so much passion and innovation in the mix, whatever your rhythm, you’ll find the SEAT Ibiza perfectly in tune.

Broad shoulders, sharp lines and flared wheel arches are the perfect canvas for some striking colours and a choice of 15”, 16” or 17” alloy wheels. And the compact three-door layout emphasises that

* Bi-xenon headlights standard on CUPRA, rear LED lights standard on FR and CUPRA.

Barlow Motors SEAT, 1 Evans Street, Newhampton Road West, Wolverhampton WV6 0PL. Tel: 01902 714503 www.bestseatdeals.com

Arrange a test drive today and find out for yourself just how good the SEAT Ibiza is!

wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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WEDNESDAY 30 SEPTEMBER - SUNDAY 11 OCTOBER Box Office 01902

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BOOK ONLINE AT www.grandtheatre.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine | september 2015

Wolverhampton West Magazine - September 2015