Your Lifestyle Magazine Mar/Apr 16

March / April 2016

Easter Recipes Mouth-watering recipes for all the family to enjoy

Weddings Shaping up for your Wedding and inspiration for Mother of the bride

Garden Inspiration Great tips and ideas for your garden design

Delivered to 25,000 Selected Households and Businesses Pattingham, Burnhill Green, Ackleton, Chesterton, Seisdon, Claverley, Trysull, Sandford, Worfield, Hilton, Wightwick, Compton, Perton, Perton Ridge, Finchfield, Codsall, Codsall Wood, Oaken, Lower Penn, Tettenhall, Stockwell End, Lower Street, Claregate, Wombourne, Wall Heath, Kingswinford, Swindon, Himley, Stourbridge, Kinver, Enville, Stourton, Norton, Bobbington, Old Swinford, Pedmore, Hagley, Blakedown, Hackman’s Gate, Belbroughton.

www.yourlifestylemagazine.co.uk

yourlifestylemagazine

Your Lifestyle Magazine

Spring is here!

Contents Home Style

4 - 28

Property

29 - 35

Rising Stars

36 - 37

Music

38 - 39

Spring is the time for family celebrations with Easter and Mother’s Day just around the corner. With this in mind why not try some of our mouth-watering Recipes for all the family to enjoy, including: succulent spring lamb and wonderfully indulgent chocolate.

Food & Drink

40 - 47

Diary of a Country Lady

48 - 49

What’s On

50 - 58

Weddings

59 - 63

It’s also the start of the gardening season - we have some great tips and ideas for Garden Design and Inspiration for 2016.

Fashion

64 - 65

Horoscopes

66

Hair & Beauty

67 - 71

This issue will give you plenty of exciting ideas on how to spend your Easter Holidays and offers the chance for you to win 2 theatre tickets to see ‘Annie’.

Health

72 - 79

Why I Love My Job

80 - 81

Pets & Gardens

82 - 89

Funerals

90

Finance & Legal

91 - 93

Classified

94 - 95

Time of Year

96 - 97

Motoring

98 - 99

Finally, spring is here! It’s time to make the most of this time of year that promises renewal and reawakening with lighter nights and warmer weather.

Congratulations to Mrs Julie Elphick the lucky winner of our Jan/Feb competition to win a ‘Meal for Four’ at the Cowshed in Pattingham.

Don’t forget if you would like us to feature your social event, or maybe you know a rising star we should write about then please do get in touch info@yourlifestylemagazine.co.uk.

Linda Farren

Christine Arnold

Marketing Director

Sales Director

07841 431446

07970 681004

linda@yourlifestylemagazine.co.uk

christine@yourlifestylemagazine.co.uk

Danielle Farren Design & Production Manager info@yourlifestylemagazine.co.uk

Feature Writers and Editor; Victoria Stanton, Emma Russel, Scott Ford, Kate Oliver & Jayne Howarth info@yourlifestylemagazine.co.uk

www.yourlifestylemagazine.co.uk Competition Terms & Conditions There is no cash alternative to the prize. The competition is free to enter. Entrants must supply their contact details and in doing so agree that Your Lifestyle Magazine can use them for their own marketing purposes. Details supplied by entrants will not be passed on to any third party. All applications will be entered into a prize draw and the winner will be selected at random by the prize supplier. Winner will selected and notified by telephone and/or e-mail by the 15th of the second month in the issue date e.g. issue March/April 2014 the winner will be notified by 15th April 2014. Entry will assume acceptance of these terms and conditions. Competition start date is the start of the month of the magazine issue and will run until 10th of the second month in the issue date e.g. issue March/April 2014 the competition will run until 10th April 2014 Details of the winner available on request by writing to: Your Lifestyle Magazine Limited, Dominique House 1 Church Road, Netherton. DY2 0LY. Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Your Lifestyle Magazine cannot accept responsibility for any loss, damage, or omission in an advert. Your Lifestyle Magazine does not officially endorse advertising material which is printed on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All rights are reserved.

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Dreamland - Offering Divans

Mattresses

Electric beds

Headboa

bases to help ease bad backs to a softer base upon which to rest your head.

It’s been helping the people across the Midlands get a good night’s sleep since 1976 – and now Dreamland Bedding Centre is marking its 40th anniversary with a series of events and special offers throughout the year.

But whatever you choose, you’ll be delighted at Dreamland’s very competitive prices and instead of a delivery charge, customers are asked to make a donation, all of which goes to charity.

Over the past few years, it has raised more than £120,000 for the Mary Stevens Hospice, thanks to the generosity of customers who give in lieu of delivery charge.

Founded by Mike Brown, Dreamland is a family business that is proud to serve the Black Country and the wider Midlands region.

Located in Mill Street, Brierley Hill – just a few minutes’ walk from the Merry Hill Centre – you’ll find friendly and knowledgeable staff, all of whom understand the importance of getting the right bed for you.

Dreamland will even collect your old bed and assemble your divan – more reasons why you’ll sleep soundly in your new bed!

Says Mike: “We spend a third of our lives asleep, so there can be no better investment than a quality handmade mattress and bed.

Renowned for quality and service, Dreamland stocks only manufacturers that are approved by the National Bed Federation, and offers premium handmade beds, with mattresses filled with natural fillings such as wool, cashmere, alpaca and silk help to regulate your body temperature.

You’ll receive impartial advice and a tailor-made solution to meet your needs from the firmest of

“We pride ourselves on supplying only the best quality and we know that each handmade bed we sell provides pressure relief, comfort and support exactly where your body needs it.

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g a good night’s sleep for

ards

Bed frames

Ottomans

40 years

Children’s beds

“We’re very excited to have reached this milestone of 40 years and we’re looking forward to continuing to serve our customers, old and new, for the next 40 and beyond.”

There are more than 100 bed models in stock at Dreamland – including Hypnos, MiBed and Relyon – and you’ll also find other leading brands such as Sealy, Slumberland, Dunlopillo, Somnos, Mammoth, Myers, and Silent Night.

Dreamland has come a long way since it first opened its doors in Mill Street, Brierley Hill, in the spring of 1976 with just 12 beds in stock.

Public demand for Dreamland’s superlative customer service and premium products has seen the business expand four times in as many decades. Now, with more than 100 models in stock to suit all styles and budgets, it’s no surprise that it is the go-to bedding business for thousands of satisfied customers.

If you’re looking to replace your tired, old bed with a new model, look no further – Dreamland Bedding Centre, with its large, free customer car park, is open seven days a week. Opening times are Monday to Saturday, 9am5.30pm; Sundays 11am-4.30pm.

Visit Dreamland Bedding Centre today at 23 Mill Street, Brierley Hill, or telephone 01384 74166.

01384 74166

Dreamland Bedding Centre, 23 5Mill Street, Brierley Hill, DY5 2RG

A new flavour of kitchen

running the company with the help of Sales Manager Bob Peters.

Black Country Kitchens, which was formed in July by local entrepreneur Mitchell Smith, will become the area’s only Kulhmann stockist when it launches a dedicated showroom later this month.

Black Country Kitchens is still committed to sourcing from the UK and, in addition to Kuhlmann, is showcasing more than 60 kitchens across its classical, contemporary and painted ranges including Burbridge, Bella and TKC brands.

Following a visit to Dortmund to seal the deal, the company has invested another £25,000 into equipping its Delph Road site with two fully fitted kitchens and a selection of finishes from the international brand’s extensive range.

It offers the complete service, from talking customers through their requirements to designing their bespoke kitchens and fitting them quickly and efficiently.

It’s the culmination of a flying start for Smith, who has seen his firm secure over £100,000 of orders from consumers looking for a bespoke offer and personal service…growth that has necessitated the need for six new staff, including craftsman, delivery driver and an experienced designer.

“We started out by wanting to provide the marketplace with something different and that included finding local, nationwide and international brands that embrace new design styles and trends,” explained Mitchell, who is

With its reputation growing, Black Country Kitchens has now started to tender for major new build and refurbishment projects, tapping into the skills of its sister business Smith Carpentry Services.

6

For further information, please visit www.blackcountrykitchens.com or on www. facebook.com/blackcountrykitchens

Why not give us the opportunity to show you what we could do in your home?

A new year. A new kitchen. A new you.

Design | Fitting | Building | Extensions Electrics, Plumbing & Heating | Bathrooms | Decorating 01384 572 732 Unit 35, Delph Road Industrial Estate, Delph Road, Brierley Hill, DY5 2UA www.blackcountrykitchens.com

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Your Home

Interiors Go Crafty In search of hand made treasures

Your Lifestyle Magazine’s interiors expert, Victoria Stanton searches for hand made treasures for your home.

You can’t help but notice how popular programmes about arts and crafts have become.

From the Great British Sewing Bee and Great Pottery Throwdown to the British Landscape Artist of the Year and – of course – the Great British Bake-Off, these programmes have fuelled our imaginations.

The concept of Mindfulness invites us to slow down and live for the moment and slowly but surely, this idea is making its way into our interiors.

Marie Kondo, author of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying, asks us to hold and examine each item we own and ask ourselves if it sparks joy.

Who’d have thought audiences would be glued to the screen, watching contestants throwing pots? Or icing a cake?

It’s an echo of William Morris’s quote from the late 1800s when he said: “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.”

But it seems we can’t get enough of handmade artefacts for our homes. It’s not surprising: handmade items have a special quality and the added beauty is that every piece is individual.

A cheap plastic vase from a discount retailer rarely sparks joy – it’s probably why people are rediscovering the joy in owning a one-off craft piece.

With every high street store selling massproduced furniture and accessories for the interior, it’s almost too easy to furnish and decorate your home. You can pick up coordinated pieces so quickly and inexpensively but it means there will be thousands of people with the same room set.

Shopping in this way for our homes invites us to accumulate clutter.

Take a look at websites such as Etsy and Folksy, which offer a huge range of lovingly made handmade products. While Etsy sells goods made by craftspeople all over the world, Folksy is UK based and showcases about 170,000 handmade items from more than 5,000 British designers and artisans.

If your home has more vases, ornaments and items than it really needs, it’s time to practise mindfulness.

The online store Not on The High Street is also a great showcase for British craft, as is the website made by hand online.

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Your

If you want to support local artisans, there are fantastic craft centres here in the Midlands where you can watch the artist at work and purchase items for your home. Check out Jinney Ring, Stourbridge Glass Cone and Ruskin Centre.

Home

Annemarie O’Sullivan and feature fun and quirky legs that can be unscrewed and packed inside the seat.

Here are some gorgeous pieces that I’ve found that will enhance any home:

These lovely pieces are woven from white stripped willow, which has been grown in Somerset, while the legs are turned and screwed into a birch ply disc underneath the seat.

These Woven Screw Stools are handmade by

ÂŁ130 , www.madebyhandonline.com

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Your Home This cute little bowl is handmade from white earthenware clay and then decorated with hand-painted fine lines in black. The inside is finished off in a glorious turquoise crackle glaze available from: £15.25, monalisapottery.etsy.com

These slash cut vases are perfect for a single flower.

Available from www.madebyhandonline.com these tactile pieces have a dark interior with transparent shiny glaze.

This set of rustic, modern tableware has been hand-formed by Susan Simonini. Made from textured, earthy stoneware clay, these are bisque fired, then selectively decorated in a white glaze. Each piece is then high fired to give them strength and durability. susansimonini.etsy.com

If this doesn’t inspire you to have your friends over for afternoon tea, nothing will! These hand-thrown tea cups and saucers are crafted from the finest porcelain clay and fit perfectly in your hand. Choose from turquoise or cream.

Matching plates, bowls, and more available.

These Fair Trade coffee cups, each of which is hand-thrown in India, have a curvy shape that’s made to be cradled in the hands. The project

£40, www.madebyhandonline.com

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Your

Home

For all your decorating needs...

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has breathed new life into the rural community – and the founder of the pottery has even opened a school for the local children. £8.95, www.decoratorsnotebook.co.uk

ÂŁ129, iapetus.co.uk

The adorable little Iapetus copper ceramic mantel clock has been handmade by Ian

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BEVAN & FUNNELL • BRADLEY

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These rustic-looking frames are made from reclaimed wood that has been salvaged from old Colonial and Cape Dutch buildings in and around Cape Town, South Africa. Skillfully made by local artisans, no two pieces are alike but each frame is painted in a lovely chalky colour.

The timber collected largely dictates the final finish. These frames are eco friendly, fairly traded and 100% handcrafted. £13.50, www.berryred.co.uk

This stylish Aztec armchair has been upholstered in natural Jute with a contemporary geometric deep blue Aztec design, which has been

PLUS MANY MANY MORE

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will look fabulous on a dark wooden oor teamed with an eclectic mix of heritage and more exotic fabrics. As well as introducing more warmth, colour and texture to your room, rugs are invaluable to interior designers as they create a ‘centre’ for a room, around

Home Vintage Red Paisley Wool Your Rug, 230 x 160cm, ÂŁ499 www.artisanti.com

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9GV TQQOU NWZWT[ DCVJTQQOU HQT VJG NGUU CDNGF CTG QWT URGEKCNKV[ handwoven using the traditional skills of artisans in Rajasthan. It is beautifully finished with brass stud detailing and has elegant, hand turned legs, made from sustainable mango wood.

ĎŽĎ­

ÂŁ995, www.limelace.co.uk These double sided picture frames are perfect for anything you could put in a scrapbook, but would prefer on display! Effortlessly create collages of family snaps, postcards, letters, ticket stubs and pressed flowers to preserve special memories. Or, make a heartfelt wedding gift with a photo, map and a sprinkle of confetti.

Make a gallery wall using a mix of the three versatile sizes, which all come in portrait or landscape formats. Our double sided metal photo frames are crafted by a fair trade project in India from two sheets of glass with a zinc frame and a recycled sari ribbon (various designs) for hanging. Also available in a copper finish or as a standing frame for your mantelpiece.

ÂŁ12.95, www.decoratorsnotebook.co.uk

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Your Home

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Upcycling The growing trend of upcycling might also be considered an emerging craft in it’s own right.

In the last few years fantastic furniture paints such as Annie Sloane and Autentico Chalk paints have seen people flocking to car boot sales to pick up interesting furniture in need of a metamorphosis. Almost anything can be upcycled. Wooden pallets are turned into outdoor sofas, vintage plates become cake stands and gin bottles turn into quirky lamp bases. Like all crafts, the result is of something unique, created by hand.

Mismatched set of drawers in various finishes.

The Mismatched furniture collection by Made With Love Designs features a beautiful English cherry wood finish and with a mismatched design. The drawers are finished in cherry wood, duckegg blue, white or black laquer and have mismatched handles.

www.madewithlovedesigns.co.uk

We aim to give you a feeling of everlasting warmth in your home 43 Bridgnorth Road, Compton, Wolverhampton WV6 8AF

T: 01902 745777 www. tettenhallfireplacecompany.co.uk E: info@tettenhallfireplacecompany.co.uk Our installers are qualified for both Gas Safe and Hetas

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Your

Home

WINDOWS DOORS

Knock Knock

Who’s there?

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

High security internal beading Contoured frame, sash and glazing bead Multi point shootbolt locking Key locking handles Low sightline gaskets Double weather seals Standard A rated window Secured by Design optional extra

Our high security Composite Doors with the look and feel of a timber door but with the easy maintenance of a UPVC door.

Choose from our wide variety of colours and styles..

Pelham Works, Pelham Street, Wolverhampton web: www.wolverhamptonglass.co.uk Tel: 01902 773831 Mobile: 07989 971261 Open: Monday-Friday 8am-4.30pm E V E N I N G

A N D

W E E K E N D

A P P O I N T M E N T S

A V A I L A B L E

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Small yet perfectly formed, the Plank Side Table is as simple and as traditional as wooden furniture comes and is all the more beautiful for it. Up cycled from reclaimed timber, each piece is hand finished to enhance the genuine patina of age. £198, www.theorchardhomeandgifts. com Interior fabric companies have cottoned on too (excuse the pun!). Voyage Decoration has launched a range of gorgeous velvets that have a loose handpainted quality. Choose from fluid florals and watery stripes, plus splashes with contrasting artisan style embroideries.

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Your Home

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Your

Home

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These beautiful hand painted style velvets and coordinating embroideries are from the Iridescence range by Voyage Decoration. www.voyagedecoration.com

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Your Home The Printworks range from Prestigious Textiles, features fabric designs inspired by watercolour florals and abstract brushstrokes.

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So whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been inspired to enrol on a pottery course, to visit a craft centre, or to visit a car boot sale to pick up a piece of furniture ripe for up-cycling, maybe now is the time to invite a little uniqueness into our homes ...

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Your

Printworks range, www.prestigious.co.uk

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Home

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18/02/2016 17:20

Carvers make the Leap !

February 29th is a date that only occurs once every four years, and is known as ‘leap day’. For the staff at local builders merchants Carvers, that date is prevalent in the minds of many for very different reasons. The last time the 29th February made an appearance on the calendar back in 2012 marked the day that a devastating fire that tore through the Carver buildings and destroyed over 116 years of history in the building of the Carver empire.

The following day, MD Henry Carver released a statement vowing to ‘regroup and rebuild’.

True to his word, Henry has been the driving force behind getting Carvers back on its feet and what a journey it has been.

Your

Home

The layout of the new building gives a sympathetic link from new to old with a link through to the Kitchen Design Studio (situated in the former Carver boardroom), offering a wide variety of kitchen displays, featuring modern, contemporary and traditional designs along with a whole host of accessories and appliances.

The specialist Cooker Centre has in-house engineers providing service and repair.

The Centre features a range of prestigious brands on display including Lacanche, Esse, Rangemaster, Falcon and Westahl.

The existing Hire Centre has been given a complete makeover (outside and in) and the hire fleet improved and updated. Tools are available to hire for as little as ‘one day’ and are also available to purchase.

The rebuild programme itself has been an exciting process. The first Carver building to emerge was the Drive Through Warehouse in July 2013, housing a full range of insulation, plasterboards, cement, timber and joinery products. With centre drive lanes and parking lanes on either side, allowing vehicles to park next to the materials and be quickly picked and loaded, whilst all under cover.

The final stage of the rebuild programme was the showroom facility and Builders Village in November 2014, which expands previous trading facilities and provides a fabulous purpose built customer showroom.

Carvers are delighted to welcome; S J Dixons, Tile Choice, Chandlers Roofing and Rayton Electrical into the Carver fold, making Carvers the complete one stop shop for literally everything trade and DIY. The two storey Dixon showroom covers all manner of decorating materials, more specialist paints and wallpapers. The Tile Choice showroom, located next to the Bathroom showroom includes a huge range of wall and floor tiles and accessories. Chandlers Roofing and Rayton Electrical have specialist trade counters offering all manner of products and friendly advice.

Carvers are now fully operational from their new purpose built showroom facility Henry Carver comments “We are delighted to be operating from our new facility. The rebuild has been an exciting project for staff and customers alike. Improvements have been made in all areas to address the quality of service our customers demand and building a custom built facility is a major step in the right direction”.

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Celebrating 25 years of business, established in 1991 Tile Choice and now boasts 16 individually designed stores throughout and around the Midlands. We pride ourselves for quality and diversity in our product range along with the highest levels of Customer Service, Open 7 days a week, our 30,000 square foot centralised warehouse offers full support to the stores and our customers, allowing customer orders to be picked and dispatched quickly, direct to their door, nationwide.

25 years in business

All our staff are fully trained in all aspects of the tile industry, and product knowledge is key to customer service. We offer sound and practical advice on how to plan and prepare your room layout properly, choosing the right tiles and tools for the job. Free sample tiles are available, product demonstrations plus price matching on all like for like products including all our underfloor heating kits.

Alternatively you can visit our website www.tilechoice.co.uk where all our products available to buy including tile samples plus how to tips and suggested products. All orders are picked the same day from our central warehouse and delivered nationwide to ensure customer satisfaction.

Tile Choice also have their own vehicle fleet to service the stores on a daily basis, along with a customer delivery service available via every store ensuring a high standard of service and stock is available. We offer an optional next day nationwide delivery on all orders placed instore or via our websites so that the customer receives their tiles when they need them.

If you are thinking of tiling yourself, we stock a full range of tools and tiling accessories including well known branded products plus our own branded adhesive tubs and bags, and offer any practice advice on the right products to used for the job in hand.

We maintain that customer service and product knowledge is key to our business. Our staff continue to deliver a high standard and offer helpful information and advice in all aspects of the customers tiling project.

So if you are looking for an up to the minute design for your kitchen, bathroom or en-suite, traditional style or a modern and contemporary design for your lounge, hallway or conservatory. Tile Choice can meet your every requirement at exceptional prices.

ERAMOSA BEIGE & BROWN 60.5x30.5cm

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Great value on all tiles inc.natural stone If you are looking for an up to the minute design for your kitchen, bathroom or en-suite, traditional style or a modern and contemporary design for your lounge, hallway or conservatory. Tile Choice can meet your every requirement at exceptional prices. Our fully trained and experienced staff will assist you in planning your room layout, how to prepare the surfaces to be tiled, and advise you on the correct tiles and tools to complete the project, with the minimum disruption BILSTON

WOLVERHAMPTON

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Unit 8a Aston Fields Ind. Est. Sherwood Road B60 3DR

Unit 6 Easter Park Worcester Road Kidderminster DY11 7AR

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Your Home

Spring...

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a time for our homes to blossom

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As the days get noticeably longer thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a spring in our step at Oldswinford Galleries (OG Home).

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all looking to revitalise our homes and Spring clean the Winter away and with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, home accessories, scented candles and delightful fresh flowers, we really can offer a helping hand to customers who want to say farewell to Winter.

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This Season weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re already seeing many customers transforming their homes, thanks to Annie Sloan Chalk Paint. With a couple of coats of one of the many wonderful colour tones, tired pine, oak, melamine and pretty much any material, can be rejuvenated into a new piece of furniture. For customers who would prefer a little help, we offer official Annie Sloan Chalk Paint workshops from our shop in Oldswinford and we also offer a furniture painting service.

With well respected florist Liz Dowthwaite as part of our growing team we are lucky enough to be able to offer the very best fresh flowers.

And there really is no better way to bring Spring into your home than with the scents and colours of the Season. Our signature â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;pretty flowers in a glass vaseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; are perfect for a heartfelt gift and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be offering special Mothers Day flowers in March.

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Arranging flowers is an art and Liz Dowthwaite will be offering classes to help you on your way to selecting and arranging your own beautiful arrangements.

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Details of our Chalk Paint and flower workshops are available on our website www.oghome. co.uk

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24

Your

Home

Welcome to Heart Of Stone

Specialising in Stone Tiles, Granite Worktops, Fireplaces & Granite Table Tops based in Shropshire!

Heart of Stone provides a service based on 30 years of experience in stonework, ranging from domestic kitchens to palaces for royalty! We also have our own unique designs and can create inexpensive designs to meet our client’s needs.

We are based in Shropshire, UK, but will deliver to just about anywhere in the world. We offer a service to both domestic and commercial clients. To allow our clients to see and feel the products before they buy, samples can be supplied, or are available for viewing at our showroom.

Heart of Stone imports and manufactures quality stone products at affordable prices; including natural stone, quartzite’s, sandstones, travertines, quartz, limestone, slates and marbles, for wall and flooring, granite worktops, fireplaces and granite table tops.

We supply both ready-made and custom made fireplaces.

For the garden we have a very wide range of landscaping ideas, including table tops, bases, steps and paving flags.

We supply a huge range of floor materials, in many different sized tiles, and can help client’s design their own floors.

We design and supply a huge variety of granite/ quartz worktops to suit the client’s needs/ budget.

HEART OF STONE 07779 727283 or 01952 730231 E: heartofstone@btinternet.com

W: www.heartofstone.co.uk

Cotsbrook Farm Buildings, Higford, Nr Shifnal, Shropshire TF11 9ES

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Your Home

Light of the month As well as the classic flush design, DAR has recently released an elegant spiral effect pendant available in a 12 and 20 light option.

So far the light is only available in a Polished Chrome finish but it is still an incredibly elegant and versatile fitting.

The Luther Collection The Luther collection by DAR Lighting includes some of the most popular fittings we stock. With a diverse range of lights for the ceiling, table and walls, as well as a wide selection of finishes, it’s no surprise that this collection is so popular. The Luther collections timeless design makes for incredibly versatile fittings, suitable for homes with any number of design schemes. Below is some more information on the collection including the finishes and styles available and some ideas for how you can get the most out of a Luther light.

The Colours

Matching Accessories

One of the best features of the Luther collection is the four colour options for its finishes. Most lights in the collection come with the option of Polished Chrome, Antique Brass, Satin Chrome and Black Chrome finishes. This diversity in colour means that there is a finish to suit all homes. Polished Chrome is incredibly popular at the moment, and Antique Brass has been a staple in interior design for many years. On the other hand, the Satin and Black Chrome finishes available in the collection are much rarer and make a nice change to the more traditional finishes available. Regardless of what finish suits your home best, combined with its staple crystal glass shade any Luther fitting will no doubt make a lovely addition to your home.

Alongside its ceiling lights the Luther collection also includes a number of floor, table and wall lights. Being such a versatile collection there is a light to suit any room. The wall lights available in both 1 and 2 light options can work nicely as separate fixtures or in conjunction with any of the ceiling lights. If you’d like to design your lighting around the Luther but want to deviate slightly, mixing and matching finishes may work for you. An example of this may be choosing Polished Chrome for your living room and having Antique Brass in the bedroom. The pieces in the collection also work nicely on an individual basis alongside light fittings from different collections. For instance, the Luther table light in a black chrome finish would make a nice addition to an office or professional space.

Ceiling Light There are now two ceiling light options available in the Luther collection. The first, the classic flush fitting, is available in 4, 6, and 10 light options. Smaller and more compact the 4 and 6 light adds a nice touch when placed in landings or hallways, providing style without taking away too much attention from the rest of your decor. If you’d prefer to make much more of a statement with your Luther ceiling light, the 10 light, with a width of 72.5cm, is perfect for large living rooms or dining areas.

The simplicity of its design and wide range of finish options means that whether you are looking to design a room around the Luther, or are just looking for a new accessory light to spruce up your home, there is a light for you.

If you’d like to take a more detailed look at the Collection, visit us in our Aldersley showroom in Wolverhampton or browse our website at www. lightingrus.co.uk and type in Luther to view the range.

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Your

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Home

Your Home

Projects from PAINT IT by Peta Green of Paint It Colour is in the eye of the beholder!

The Brief Paint it had been asked to paint a bespoke large kitchen Pine Dresser and matching circular table which had turned orange through age. The customer’s kitchen, a country shaker style with a modern and contemporary look. The dresser had to be cream which had to blend with the existing kitchen. In addition, it was paramount that the white table ware worked with the chosen cream, and a showroom finish. Also, Peta was given timescales when the work could be carried out which fitted around the customer’s business trip.

If you would like speak to Peta about your painting requirements contact her on 01952 670805 to arrange a FREE of CHARGE home consultation or visit www.paintitfurniture.com

AFTER

BEFORE

The Solution Peta arranged to meet the customer to view the dresser and discuss the requirements. As always Peta provides samples and images of work carried out previously helping the customer visualise the transformation of her dresser. The customer agreed on a shade cream from a swatch card of “ 50 shades of Cream”! Choosing a colour is the hardest part of a project for the customer so Peta tries to make the process simpler by providing a larger swatch of the paint colour or colours, enabling the customer to see the swatch colour in the changing light throughout the day.

Using their 7 coat paint system the table top and the top of dresser where resurfaced and stained a medium oak with a lacquer finish. Delivered on time, within budget, equals a happy customer.

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Easter Egg HUNT How many times is the word “Egg” mentioned in the article below?

Your

Property

ring the eggsperienced staff at PlesterGroup who acted eggceedingly fast in getting an eggsact replacement.

Either email your answer, together with your name and contact number to competition@ plestergroup.co.uk, or alternatively you can post your entry to our address below. The closing date is the 18th March and the first 5 correct entries drawn at random after that date will receive an Easter Egg.

Eggbert his next door neighbour, who is an eggsecutive for an eggercise eggquipment company has an eggstrodinary and eggspanding collection of fine art that he eggsibits. One night after a megga April shower caused storm damage to his roof, water seeped down the wall and ruined his collection. Due to the fact that the policy offered eggstra protection with full all risks cover, he eggsamined the ruined items and reported the claim to PlesterGroup, who dealt with the claim with no eggcuses and he was put back into eggsactly the same position he was before the loss, he was eggstatic.

The winners will be announced on our website and contacted after the 25th March.

Once upon a time there was the Easter Bunny he lived in an eggceedingly large and eggspensive burrow. He worked eggstremely hard to build a nest egg for himself and his family. He got eggcited whilst Spring cleaning and damaged his TV, however to avoid having egg on his face he knew eggsactly what to do and that was to

This is an eggsample of the eggsemplary service you receive when you insure through PlesterGroup.

For All Your Insurance Needs

Home Insurance Specialists

Made To Measure and Tailored To Your Needs •

All Types Of Property Covered including Unoccupied/Let/Second Homes

•

Specialist Schemes For High Value

•

Specified Treasured Possessions

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Home Visits Available

•

Confidential, Discreet & Personal Service

•

Quote Lifestyle Magazine For A 5% Discount

Telephone: 01562 829898 or Visit: www.plestergroup.co.uk Cover House, Stourport Road, Kidderminster, Worcs, DY10 1HE 29

KYNANCE

PATTINGHAM ROAD, PERTON RIDGE

Offers Around ÂŁ1,495,000 KYNANCE A magnificent residence, standing in a large and level plot, which has recently been the subject of a vast scheme of improvement and extension to create a magnificent home which is unquestionably one of the finest properties on the highly acclaimed Perton Ridge. Porch, panelled hall, two cloakrooms, six reception rooms, living kitchen, laundry.

Vast principal suite with bedroom, dressing room and bathroom, guest suite with shower room, three further bedrooms and two bathrooms. Gated drive, detached double garage with leisure room above and a landscaped rear garden with stunning, far reaching views.

(EPC: D). TETTENHALL OFFICE.

13/15 High Street, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 8QS

Tel: 01902 747744

Email: tettenhall@berrimaneaton.co.uk

High Street, Wombourne, Wolverhampton, WV5 9DP 22/23 Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4QN

Tel: 01902 326366 Tel: 01746 766499

Email: wombourne@berrimaneaton.co.uk Email: bridgnorth@berrimaneaton.co.uk

www.berrimaneaton.co.uk www.berrimaneaton.tv

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IMPORTANT NOTICE: Every care has been taken with the preparation of these Particulars but they are for general guidance only and complete accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Areas, measurements and distances are approximate and the text, photographs and plans are for guidance only. If there is any point which is of particular importance please contact us to discuss the matter and seek professional

POOL HALL LOWER PENN

Offers Around ÂŁ1,150,000 POOL HALL A fine Georgian country residence in a rural situation within easy reach of all major centres.

Extensive accommodation of style and character which has been much improved during recent years. Beautifully appointed throughout with five reception rooms, breakfast kitchen, lower ground floor with cinema room and study, six bedrooms, two bathrooms and a shower room. Beautiful gardens with sweeping drive, three-bay carport, orchard and paddock with field shelter. Total area approximately 2.4 acres. (EPC: F). TETTENHALL OFFICE.

13/15 High Street, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 8QS

Tel: 01902 747744

Email: tettenhall@berrimaneaton.co.uk

High Street, Wombourne, Wolverhampton, WV5 9DP 22/23 Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4QN

Tel: 01902 326366 Tel: 01746 766499

Email: wombourne@berrimaneaton.co.uk Email: bridgnorth@berrimaneaton.co.uk

www.berrimaneaton.co.uk www.berrimaneaton.tv

31

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Every care has been taken with the preparation of these Particulars but they are for general guidance only and complete accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Areas, measurements and distances are approximate and the text, photographs and plans are for guidance only. If there is any point which is of particular importance please contact us to discuss the matter and seek professional

Featured Property

Substantial Detached Bungalow with extensive grounds, stabling and paddocks in lovely semi-rural setting on fringe of common some five miles northwest of Wolverhampton city centre with convenient M54 access for commuting purposes * Particularly presented to very high Wolverhamptonspacious Road,accommodation Pattingham, standard and also incorporating self-contained WV6 7AF residential annexe * Large Lounge with Minster fireplace * Formal Dining Room (approx 14’ x 13’) * 18ft. Breakfast Kitchen * Fitted Cloakroom and Utility/Laundry * Master Bedroom with extensive fitted furniture and luxurious en-suite Shower Room * Two further double Bedrooms * Lavishly appointed Principal Bathroom * Annexe comprising Living Room, Kitchen, Bedroom and Shower Room * Suitable for independent letting or relative accommodation * Gas-fired central heating * Double glazed windows. Double width Garage plus generous additional parking facilities * Beautifully landscaped formal garden plot of almost one acre * Stable block (capacity for six boxes and tack room) and three paddocks extending to about 2.75 acres * (EPC: D)

“Grey Timbers” Wolverhampton,

Price Guide: OA £1,250,000

KINGSWOOD

Offers Around £675,000

Exquisite Barn Conversion in exclusive small Grade II Listed courtyard complex within lovely secluded semirural setting about five miles west of Wolverhampton city centre *Surprisingly roomy accommodation, steeped in rustic character whilst presented and appointed with very stylish contemporary specification. Most effective! * Fitted Cloakroom off Hall * Large L-shaped Living Room * Elegant Conservatory * Luxurious 20ft Kitchen with fine range of fittings, granite surfaces, integrated Situated onquality the outskirts of Pattingham village appliances etc. * Four Bedrooms, all with fitted furniture, some six miles to the west of Wolverhampton one equipped as Office/Study * Lavishly appointed encity centre, “Grey Timbers” occupies a suite Shower Room and Principal Bathroom * Gas-fired majestic setting within South central heating * Double glazedpicturesque windows * Garage and Staffordshire countryside over which it enjoys forecourt parking facilities * Prettily landscaped garden magnificent panoramic views from its slightly * (EPC: D)

A good selection of local amenities is available in Pattingham and the nearby villages of Codsall and Albrighton, together with shopping centres at Perton and Tettenhall Green.

The area is well served by schooling with a number of highly regarded establishments within convenient proximity and including an excellent primary school in Pattingham itself.

elevated position and has the benefit of its own grounds extending in total to about 9½ Offers acres. Around £389,950

WROTTESLEY

Exceptionally attractive in appearance, “Grey Timbers” has its origins in the 1930s when instigated as one of the distinguished examples of the work of the renowned architect/builder Major Kenneth Hutchinson Smith who specialised in the creation of outstandingly characterful dwellings utilising reclaimed materials and distinctive elements of Tudor

The location combines a degree of privacy and seclusion in an exclusive semi-rural environment whilst remaining particularly conveniently placed for commuting into the West Midlands conurbation generally and to access major trunk routes and the motorway network for travelling further afield.

HighStreet, Street, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 8QT WV6 8QT 2424High Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, Tel: (01902) 759888

Tel: 01902 759888

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design. Completed by his craftsmen post-war and subsequently extended in more recent years with similarly meticulous attention to detail, the property is an absolutely captivating residence of very considerable merit combining the charm of its period ambience with a luxurious modern specification to create exquisite accommodation which is ideally suited to a comfortable family lifestyle.

The house is presented and appointed to an extremely high standard, spacious in layout with three principal Reception Rooms plus stylish Conservatory and Study, a stunning “Dayrooms” Breakfast Kitchen, superb Master Bedroom Suite incorporating large Dressing Room with quality fittings and deluxe Bathroom, three further Bedrooms all with ranges of fitted furniture, two en-suite Shower Rooms and House Bathroom. Oil-fired central heating is installed to radiators and complemented by double glazed windows as detailed.

BISHOPS WOOD

Exquisite Barn16’1” Conversion quality forming Lounge (min)ofxexceptional 13’4” having inglenookpart of exclusive small complex in glorious semi-rural style recess framed in old oak beams and setting but perfectly positioned for major commuting clad in rustic brickwork incorporating beehive connections to Telford, Wolverhampton, West fireplace, dado rail, radiator, Midlands conurbations andcentral further heating afield *Stunning two double glazed windows to side, French accommodation of immense character and superlative doors opening onto conservatory. specification blending rustic and contemporary styles to delightful overall effect * Reception Hall with fitted Cloakroom * Spacious Lounge with feature woodburner * Separate Dining Room * 20ft Breakfast Kitchen with extensive range of fittings and integrated appliances * Galleried Landing incorporating Study area * Large Master Bedroom with superb mezzanine Bathroom en-suite * Two further double Bedrooms, one with en-suite Shower Room * Luxurious Principal Bathroom * LPG-fired central heating * Double glazing * Gravelled forecourt parking facilities * Elevated terraced patio garden with southerly aspect * Lovely private landscaped garden area not overlooked from rear * (EPC: D)

Sitting Room 18’8” x 14’0” having central heating radiator, dado rail, full width double Offers Around £469,950 glazed rear bay window with fitted seating and double glazed doors opening onto garden.

Conservatory 13’6” x 13’8” formed in double glazed windows on low brick base and having terracotta tiled floor, central heating radiator, double glazed doors opening onto rear garden.

Beautifully landscaped gardens provide an idyllic setting for the house including Bungalow a lovely Exceptional 4-bedroomed Detached private patio area and swimming pool with occupying large plot including paddock and stable,the set plot area setting extending to one about informal idyllic semi-rural within mile1.3 of acres village and and including a detached outbuilding which centre with nearby A5 and M6/M54 connections enabling convenient commuting intoGarage/Stable/ the conurbation presently provides a versatile * Office/Storage Superb family sized accommodation of versatile facility and has the benefit layout and excellent specification,forall presented to high of planning permission conversion to standard *Porch and Hall *Large Lounge * Study/Office domestic annexe accommodation. Wrapped * Sitting/Dining * Spacious Breakfastgardens Kitchen with protectively Room around the formal is fine range of fittings and integrated appliances * Utility/ an additional area of fields and paddocks Laundry * Master Bedroom with Shower Room en-suite extending to a little in excess of eight acres. * Three further double Bedrooms, two with wardrobes “Grey Timbers” is a particularly fine property * Luxurious Principal Bathroom * Gas-fired central with many appealing features, an enviable heating * Double glazed windows * Detached doublelocation and outstanding views. width Garage plus additional parking * Delightfully landscaped formal gardens with brick Summerhouse * GROUND FLOOR Paddock with stable block and extensive further parking Entrance Porch facilities * Overall plot area approx. 1.25 acres * (EPC: C)

BREWOOD

radiator.

Dining Room 14’2” x 11’3” having double glazed window to front, dado rail, Minster stone fireplace incorporating stove-style ‘living flame’ gas fire, central heating radiator.

Cloakroom having white suite comprising hand basin and low flush W.C. Dado rail. Wallmounted radiator. Double glazed window.

Inner Hall having dado rail, door to rear garden.

Breakfast Kitchen 29ft overall, providing 18’3” (max) x 15’7” and 11’0” x 10’10” having magnificent range of fittings in a French oak finish comprising extensive floor-

Entrance Hall having dado rail, central heating Offers Around £575,000

33

27

Your Property Featured Property

Featured

“Grey Timbers” Wolverhampton Road, Pattingham, Property

Wolverhampton, WV6 7AF Price Guide: OA £1,250,000

Early success at luxury homes development in Seisdon

Situated on the outskirts of Pattingham village some six miles to the west of Wolverhampton city centre, “Grey Timbers” occupies a majestic setting within picturesque South Hovi Luxurycountryside Homes have Staffordshire over already which it secured enjoys reservationspanoramic on 40% of views their development site magnificent from its slightly known asposition Lower Lanes Meadow, on theofedge elevated and has the benefit its own grounds extending in total toworks aboutof9½ of idyllic Seisdon with demolition the acres. existing buildings currently being undertaken alongside phase one of the new development.

The location combines a degree of privacy and seclusion Director in an ofexclusive semi-rural Ian Houghton, Hovi Luxury Homes, environment whilst remaining particularly explained: “I am absolutely delighted that conveniently placed for commuting intobeen the this upmarket residential scheme has West Midlands conurbation generally and to so well received at such an early stage in the access major trunk routes and the motorway development process. network for travelling further afield.

A good selection of local amenities is available in Pattingham and the nearby villages of Codsall and Albrighton, together with shopping centres at Perton and Tettenhall Green.

The area individually sympathetically designed The is welland served by schooling with a houses will built using high quality materials number of be highly regarded establishments sourced from localproximity suppliersand whilst we offer within convenient including an excellent primary school in Pattingham itself. purchasers an extensive range of kitchen, appliances, bathroom, flooring and finishes to Exceptionally choose from allattractive supplied in byappearance, Porcelanosa “Grey Timbers” has its origins in the 1930s when instigated as one of thethat distinguished examples We have even ensured the Utility/laundry is of the work of the renowned architect/builder fitted to the same high standard as the kitchen.

Major Kenneth Hutchinson who A number of the houses will be inSmith the style of specialised in the creation of outstandingly barns being full of charm and character but with characterful dwellings utilising reclaimed the benefit of modern materials and techniques materials and distinctive elements of Tudor

24 High Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 8QT House onStreet, the Green, High Street, Wombourne, Wolverhampton WV5 9DP Tel:(01902) (01902)894141 759888 Tel:

26 34

design. Completed by his craftsmen post-war and subsequently extended in more recent years with similarly meticulous attention to detail, the property is an absolutely captivating with an NHBCof 10 year ” residence verywarranty. considerable merit combining the charm of its period ambience with a luxurious Seisdon is a ruralmodern village inspecification Staffordshireto create exquisite between accommodation which is ideally located Wolverhampton suitedBridgnorth to a comfortable family and close to its lifestyle. border with Shropshire near to Penn and The house is presented and appointed to an Wombourne. extremely high standard, spacious in layout with Hughes three principal Rooms plus Tim of selling Reception agents Bartlams stylish Conservatory and Study, added: “The scale of interest a isstunning “Dayrooms” Breakfast Kitchen,73 superb unprecedented with a further Master Bedroom Suite incorporating enquiries having been received on the large Dressing Room fittings remaining homes with whichquality comprise 2,3,4and deluxe Bathroom, three further Bedrooms and 5 bedrooms. The village of Seisdon is all with rangessought of fitted furniture, twowonderful en-suite Shower much after due to its Rooms and House Bathroom. Oil-fired surroundings and easily commutable location. central heating is installed to radiators and complemented by double glazed windows as Purchasers have been impressed with the high detailed. specification of the homes, which all enjoy open Beautifully landscaped gardens provide an idyllic setting for the house including a lovely private patio area and swimming pool with the formal plot area extending to about 1.3 acres and including a detached outbuilding which presently provides a versatile Garage/Stable/ Office/Storage facility and has the benefit of planning permission for conversion to domestic annexe accommodation. Wrapped protectively around the formal gardens is an additional area of fields and paddocks extending to a little in excess of eight acres.

“Grey Timbers” is a particularly fine property with many appealing features, an enviable location and outstanding views.

GROUND FLOOR

Lounge 16’1” (min) x 13’4” having inglenookstyle recess framed in old oak beams and clad in rustic brickworkYour incorporating beehive Property fireplace, dado rail, central heating radiator, two double glazed windows to side, French doors opening onto conservatory.

Sitting asRoom 18’8”expect x 14’0” having central aspects you would being within the heating radiator, dado rail, full width double Green Belt, as well as the good sized gardens. glazed rear bay window with fitted seating and The show home is scheduled to open in May double glazed doors opening onto garden. which will showcase the attention to detail that Hovi have given this development.”

Conservatory 13’6” x 13’8” formed in double glazed windows on low brick base and having terracotta tiled floor, central heating radiator, double glazed doors opening onto rear garden.

Entrance Hall having dado rail, central heating radiator.

Dining Room 14’2” x 11’3” having double glazed window to front, dado rail, Minster stone fireplace incorporating stove-style ‘living flame’ gas fire, central heating radiator.

Cloakroom having white suite comprising hand basin and low flush W.C. Dado rail. Wallmounted radiator. Double glazed window.

Inner Hall having dado rail, door to rear garden.

Breakfast Kitchen 29ft overall, providing 18’3” (max) x 15’7” and 11’0” x 10’10” having magnificent range of fittings in a French oak finish comprising extensive floor-

Entrance Porch

35 27

Your Rising Stars

Novelist chases her

Dreams

Chasing Daydreams Novelist Michelle Round

Never give up – that’s the advice from debut author Michelle Round, who, at last, is seeing her name on a book cover. Jayne Howarth talks to her about getting her book from her PC to the publisher There is a saying that there’s a novel in everyone - that we all have a great story to tell.

For one writer – Wolverhampton-born Michelle Round – that is certainly true.

Michelle says she used her experience in her hospitality career to gain an insight into people’s lives and characters, which has helped her to pinpoint what she wanted the main characters to act like.

The 31-year-old author is celebrating the publication of her first novel – and it has been a real labour of love.

But while she has drawn on people she has met and known, she is keen to stress that the story itself is not based on truth.

Michelle has long dreamed of seeing her name in print. Now, after three years of determined work to see the project through, she is now the proud author of a published novel.

“The storyline is purely fiction,” she said. “The other characters are all based loosely on people I’ve met and had experiences with over the past few years, although their actions again are purely fictional.”

Chasing Daydreams is a romance/coming-ofage novel that follows one girl’s journey into womanhood.

As many budding authors know – the route to publishing is not an easy one. JK Rowling, who has earned millions of pounds from her Harry Potter books, had her Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone script rejected 12 times by publishers and was told “not to quit her day job”.

The main character, Louise, learns to grow and adapt so that she can attract and keep the man she loves. It examines why the people in her life are the way they are and, although begins in 1975 switches throughout between different eras, shows that the path to true love is rarely the easiest to take.

Horror King Stephen King was turned down 30 times before his now classic Carrie was printed, while Margaret Mitchell received 38 rejection letters for her Gone With The Wind novel before it finally went to print in 1936 and earned the writer a Pulitzer Prize For Fiction in 1937.

“Writing a novel was something I always wanted to do but I had struggled to find an idea that would stick,” says Michelle, who is married to Matthew and is expecting their first child in July.

The key, says Michelle, who is a keen reader of James Patterson and Agatha Christie, is not to give up.

“Matthew and I had just returned from honeymoon in 2013 when I really started thinking about it. The idea for the main character popped into my head, and then everything else fell into place. The main character Louise was based loosely on my younger self, in terms of the confidence issues she faces, and the struggle she has trying to find where she fits in the world.”

While she received her fair share of “no thank yous”, the book was eventually accepted by Novum Publishing House, which specialises in the publishing of first time novels and helps to give authors the platform they need to achieve recognition.

36

Your Rising Stars “This was welcome because as a first time author the rejection letters came thick and fast in the beginning,” laughs Michelle.

blood, Michelle is now working on her second novel, which is based on the same family and looks at the additional challenges they face in their lives.

“It helped because I had faith in my work, although my pride took a knock in the beginning.

However, as an avid Wolves supporter I’m well used to that!”

While – like JK Rowling at the start of her career – Michelle is not yet ready to give up the day job, she hopes that she can one day turn her writing into a full-time career.

She admits that the publishing process has been painstaking at times.

“I would love to make publishing my career, giving me the flexibility to spend time with my family,” she says.

It’s taken about 12 months altogether, with the impatient author having to wait months for the next stage to be reached – but she says it has been worth the wait.

Until that day comes, Michelle is happy to juggle the real world with the literary and find inspiration from the people and places around her.

“It took a year to write, a year to find a publisher and a year to publish,” says Michelle. “But it’s brilliant to see it finally here.”

Chasing Daydreams

Now with the publishing bug firmly in her

It’s the summer of 1975, Louise Fraser is 17 years old and dreams of another life where she isn’t the old unwanted second child of her harsh and abusive father Michael, and her beautiful but down trodden mother, Norma.

Louise has to suffer the hand of her abusive father on a daily basis just for making simple mistakes, while her mother just looks on helplessly, living in pure denial. But, for just a few precious moments a day, Louise manages to escape her world by reading the diary of her late and brave grandmother, this gives her hope.

One day, after a chance meeting, she meets Mr Beautiful and falls in love instantly, and she begins to daydream about this mystery man. But, with her demanding and abusive father, how can she ever have a real relationship unless she escapes? Louise wonders if her daydreams will one day become a reality.

Chasing Daydreams by Michelle Round is being published by Novum Publishing House in March 2016. You can buy a copy by visiting www.novum-publishing.co.uk/ or via Amazon UK.

37

<RXU Your0XVLF Music

beautiful...

Managing Small can be your music in a compact way and sound terrďŹ c!

By Mike Norton of Midland Hi-Fi functionality comprising of :-- CD PLAYER DAB radio FM radio BLUETOOTH Aptx

Mike Norton shows ways to get the best from your music collection even if your requirements are for a compact music replay system.

Just because it is a compact system the sound does not have to poor.

People that are downsizing or its just that they want a music system that is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everyone is in love with Oliveâ&#x20AC;&#x153; extremely Compact. We have researched the marketplace have people come upadopting with several With a greatand many the solutions approach that fulfil these needs. minimalist in their homes it as lead us to scour the world marketplace for true high Manyproducts people are looking forfootprint. the simplicity of ďŹ delity with a small the old music centre but with a modern twist.

These true masterpieces Ruark are a long-standing Britishof minaturisation loudspeaker offering an have amazing of facilities,giving company usedarray all their considerable each homeinadesigning truly remarkable choice of music expertise their range of Hi-Fi. sources.

In this issue I thought it appropriate to show you the variety of compact audio devices available due the current increasing demand.

Another company NWX in Lanark Scotland is also offering some innovative ideas in their REVO mains portable music systems.

Their award winning products include the SUPERCONNECT (pictured) â&#x20AC;˘

On board hard drive capable for storing Thisthemodel is theof King of radio reception equivalent approximately 3000 cds offering:In bit perfect quality i.e No compression or

The Olive One is a totally unique device from the USA

sound quality degrading.

DAB RADIO â&#x20AC;˘ Bluetooth connection for replaying music from phone or tablet FM RADIO with RDS â&#x20AC;˘ Internet radio giving a choice of thousands of worldwide stationsin excess covering every INTERNET RADIO offering of 15000 musical genre imaginable. station to choose from

In particular the R4 (pictured) now in mark This gorgeous unit with large touch 3 format is around versatile unit aoffering full screen offers:

The unit also can be remotely controlled from BLUETOOTH aptx your phone.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just because its small it does not have to give poor sound qualityâ&#x20AC;?

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Your

Music

Your Treasured Vinyl Lps

Want to play those treasured vinyl LPs again?

Your turntable is not working?

Via standard socketry you can connect to your existing amplifier while the digital optical output can connect to an outboard dac (digital to analogue converter), TV soundbar, or an AV amplifier.

You no longer own a record player?

All this for the remarkable price of ÂŁ309.00

BUT

You want better sound from your existing turntable?

Call us (the experts) supplying the finest record playing equipment to suit every budget since 1979 Bring Vinyl to any audio system One of the latest innovations in vinyl replay is the Project Essential II Digital Turntable allowing you to bring vinyl sound to any audio system.

Combining an award winning design with an unrivalled feature set, the essential II Digital turntable aims to bring the joys of vinyl back to any home entertainment system.

For those looking to improve or replace an existing record player We can offer many various Turntable Options:-

By incorporating both a high grade phono pre-amplifier and a Analogue to Digital converter into the output stage, the Essential II can be easily connected to almost any HIFI system.

Variety of colour and wood finishes choices to match dĂŠcor and furniture.

39

Your Food & Drink

Indiluxe Your Lifestyle Magazine’s food fanatic, Scott Ford takes a few friends to the top-rated restaurant in Stourbridge.

I went straight for one of my favourite starters, Prawn on Puree, always a good benchmark as it relies on some skill in getting both the bread and the prawns to be soft and delicate. I wasnt disappointed, the dish had just the right amount of spice, great texture and a touch of sophistication by adding some fruit to the sidesalad. One friend went for the Pan Fried Seabass, equally well presented and a great upmarket option. We also tried the Mixed Kebabs, perfectly cooked and a generous portion for a starter.

Starter - Prawn on Puree

Walking through the door of the classically renovated building in Amblecote, we were amazed at the busy, buzzing atmosphere we found inside Indiluxe. We visited on a Saturday night, no surprise then that the restaurant was full to capacity (booking is definitely recommended). Adding to the general party atmosphere, the first sight that greets you is the well-stocked, glittering cocktail bar, perfect for the trendy young groups looking for a glamorous night out. For the old geezers like me Im pleased to report well-kept draught beers, including Shipyard Pale Ale which was a pleasant surprise. The wine list has a good selection with very reasonable prices – the house white is one that I often like to drink, usually paying more in other restaurants.

The menu has a wide range of options for those who are a bit more health-conscious. These are clearly indicated. One of our friends went with these options for each course. These dishes are slightly lighter and cooked in olive oil but still just as tasty. Another aspect setting Indiluxe apart from other places was the wide range of fish and seafood dishes. Mrs F thoroughly enjoyed the Maach Bhuna, which made a change from the usual meat dishes. She also thought the Sag Paneer side dish particularly good.

In the interests of research we shared and tried all the dishes – all delicious. We had Capsilla, with a tasty combination of tandoori chicken

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Your

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and king prawns. The Tawa Peshwari Jalfrezi (a healthy option) was a delight. We all agreed the highlight was my main course, Murghi Keema Jalfrezi, recommended by our waiter, quite spicy with a depth of flavours and underlying charcoal flavour that was quite different to the standard curries served elsewhere. Apparently this is the best seller, so the locals must appreciate the extra care taken by the chef.

We went over the top with our rice and bread orders, but still wanted to try some desserts. My advice is to order one less rice and try a pudding.

The two we had were really well presented and we all enjoyed sharing them.

Main Courses - Capsilla, Tawa Peshwari Jalfrezi, Murghi Keema Jalfrezi, Boiled Rice

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All the staff were friendly and knowledgeable about the food when we asked for advice.

Indiluxe has only been open for 2 years but its easy to see why its so highly rated. The owner, Hamdu was the perfect host and obviously works hard to maintain the high standards. Good news for couch potatoes too, Indiluxe offer a full takeaway and delivery service if you cant get a table or just fancy a night in by the telly. Indiluxe is a great place for a celebration, but youll need to book ahead for a Friday or Saturday. Keep checking the website and Facebook page for special offers, currently the Happy Days offer for Sundays and Thursdays gets you a full meal and a drink for under fourteen quid. If you get the urge for something spicy early in the week youre more likely to get a table. Id recommend looking at the Banquet Menu where you can get a great deal anytime.

Your Food & Drink

The Cowshed a truly delicious experience

roasted lamb loin with dauphinoise potatoes, roasted fennel and baby chantennay carrots, and for the vegetarians, three cheese and potato baked filo parcel, served with tomato and red onion salad... Simply scrumptious.

Spring is upon us. Bid farewell to those winter blues and celebrate the coming of the green season by treating you and your loved ones to a meal to remember.

The Cowshed, with its delightful combination of rustic charm and modern sophistication, is the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon with a friend; romance a loved one; celebrate a special occasion or just enjoy a good old fashioned Sunday roast.

Set in the idyllic backdrop of the South Staffordshire countryside, The Cowshed is a charming little barn conversion, nestled away within one of Pattinghamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many quaint farmhouse courtyards. With a mouth-watering choice of entirely fresh dishes bursting with flavour and rich aromas, The Cowshed Restaurant promises a truly delicious experience. True to its traditional roots, the Spring menu boasts a selection of local favourites, including pan

With lots of exciting dates coming up such as Easter Sunday and Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day, reservations are limited. Book today on 01902 701888.

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Lunch Wed-Sat 2 Courses £11.99, 3 Courses £16.99 Evening A la Carte Menu Sunday Lunch 12-5pm 2 Courses £15.95, 3 Courses £20.95 Easter Sunday 3 Courses £24.95 Mothering Sunday 3 Courses £24.95

01902 701 888 thecowshedrestaurant.co.uk info@thecowshedrestaurant.co.uk Clive Farm, Pattingham, Wolverhampton, 43 WV6 7EN

Cowshed Pattingham @TheCowshed1 Cowshed Pattingham

Your Food & Drink

Easter Recipes that everyone will love!

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Your

Food & Drink

It’s Easter and that means two things: fabulous, succulent spring lamb and wonderfully indulgent chocolate (in any form!).

If you are having family and friends over for Easter lunch, how about cooking this magnificent stuffed leg of lamb with pancetta and sage, which will not only look great on the table but will also go down a treat with your guests?

Vegetarians need not be left out of the feast – this aubergine stack with tomato and pepper sauce will definitely hit the spot among those who eschew meat.

And why not get the kids involved in the cooking? This White Rabbit Easter cake, by Cathryn Dresser, is easy enough for youngsters to tackle – with a little help from the grown-ups.

Enjoy your Easter feast.

Stuffed leg of lamb with pancetta and sage

Alternatively, place on a prepared barbecue not too close to the coals for about 40-50 minutes.

Ingredients:

Slice the lamb and serve with a tossed green salad.

• • • •

1.3kg/3lb lean butterflied leg of lamb Freshly milled black pepper 5ml/1tsp garlic salt 4-6 large fresh sage leaves, finely chopped • 50g/2oz bacon lardons or pancetta cubes, finely chopped • 30ml/2tbsp olive oil Method: In a small bowl, mix the sage and bacon lardons or pancetta cubes together.

Preheat the oven to Gas mark 7, 220°C, 425°F. Place the lamb on a chopping board, season and make several slits over the surface.

Spread the sage mixture all over the joint on both sides and press well into the slits. Drizzle with the oil.

Insert 2 long metal or wooden skewers (previously soaked in water for 20 minutes), criss-crossed through the lamb.

Place directly on the shelf in a preheated oven (place a tray underneath to catch the drips) for about 50-60 minutes, turning frequently.

Image courtesy of AHDB of Simplybeefandlamb.co.uk

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Your Food & Drink Tips:

• Few fresh chives • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • To taste balsamic vinegar

Ask your butcher to butterfly your lamb for you. Use an unrolled boneless lamb shoulder joint as an alternative.

Ingredients for the sauce: • 15ml/1tbsp olive oil • 1 small onion, peeled and finely chopped • 1 clove garlic, crushed • 225g/8oz fresh ripe full flavoured tomatoes, skinned and finely chopped • 150ml/5 fl oz vegetarian white wine • 1 yellow or red pepper, roasted, skin removed and cut into strips then across into diamonds • 5ml/1tsp balsamic vinegar • To decorate chives or chive flowers

Recipe courtesy of AHDB – for more delicious recipes, visit simplybeefandlamb.co.uk

First make the sauce. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan and fry the onion gently with the garlic. Add half the chopped tomatoes and white wine and cook for 5 minutes. Blend until smooth. Mix in the rest of the chopped tomatoes and pepper pieces and 1 tsp balsamic vinegar. Season to taste.

Brush the griddle with olive oil and cook the aubergine slices so that they are seared with stripes. Put on one side and keep warm.

Griddled aubergine stacks with tomato sauce

Grill the beef tomato slices gently.

Chop and mix the lemon, sage, thyme and chives together and season well.

Serves 4 This recipe is dairy free, but if you like cheese top the stacks with a slice of griddled halloumi.

On individual serving plates layer the aubergine, tomato and then the herb mix and drizzle with a little balsamic vinegar.

Repeat until the layers are used up and top with a nicely striped aubergine slice and a sprinkling of the herb mixture. Drizzle the sauce around the plate and decorate with chives or chive flowers. Serve warm.

Ingredients for the cake: • A little olive oil • 1 large aubergine, cut into rings • 2 beef tomatoes, skinned and cut into rings • 1lemon, zest only • Few sprigs fresh sage • Few sprigs fresh thyme

© The Vegetarian Society – (recipe created by the Cordon Vert cookery school) www. vegsoc.org.

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Your

Food & Drink

• 150ml soured cream • 4 tbsp caster sugar • White chocolate bunnies, to decorate Method: Preheat the oven to 180˚C/160° fan/gas mark 4. Grease 2 20cm round tins, and line them with non-stick baking parchment.

Put the flour, baking powder, ginger, nutmeg and cinnamon in a large mixing bowl.

In another bowl, whisk together the oil, sugar and eggs. Stir in the grated carrot, then fold in the dry ingredients with a metal spoon.

Divide the mixture equally between the two tins.

Bake for 30-35 minutes.

Spring

White Rabbit Easter Cake

014-065 Spring Let's Bake.indd 51

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06/12/2013 13:50

Perfect for children to make (with a little help from a grown up).

Put the soured cream into another small bowl and add the caster sugar. Whisk together until slightly fluffy, but do not overmix.

Makes one 20cm sandwich sponge

When the chocolate is cool, add the soured cream mixture and combine gently. Put the mixture in the fridge to set a little.

Ingredients for the cake: • • • • • • • • • •

While the cakes are baking, make the icing by melting the white chocolate and butter in a bowl over a pan of gently simmering water, then leave to cool to room temperature.

Unsalted butter, for greasing 350g plain flour, sifted 3 tsp baking powder 1 tsp ground ginger ½ tsp ground nutmeg 2 tsp ground cinnamon 300ml sunflower oil 400g light soft brown sugar 4 large free-range eggs 400g peeled and grated carrot

When your cakes have cooled completely, assemble them by spreading half the icing on top of the bottom layer and sandwiching it with the second cake. Carefully spread the rest of the icing all over with a spatula or palette knife.

Decorate with white chocolate bunnies.

Ingredients for the Icing:

Recipe reproduced by kind permission of Orion Books. Let’s Bake! By Cathryn Dresser.

• 400g white chocolate • 150g unsalted butter

47

Your Diary of a Country Lady

Onward and Upward Generally hassled mother of three children, a dog and fluctuating number of chickens, Kate Arul can usually be found in Hagley amongst tray bakes, hydrangeas and too much mud. on. Well, that’s me in a nutshell. If I look like I might be five minutes early to an event, I decide not to ‘waste’ time being prompt and set about loading the washing machine and tackling the smeary light switches that have irked me for months but not moved me to action until this precise moment. And lo and behold - aaarrrggghhh - I’m suddenly late. How on earth did that happen?

A true friend is one who loves you for all your faults and so I conclude that I must have one of those. Her gift to me was a coaster displaying two ladies of a certain age, arms linked as they merrily strode along in daffodil-yellow frocks.

The caption: “Those who are late are always more jolly than those who are waiting!”

By now many of us will have abandonned or forgotten our New Year’s resolutions: we will have had a snifter of brandy, bitten the head off a chocolate bunny and fallen out with the crosstrainer.

Thank you dear friend. I accepted the gift in the vein of gentle teasing with which it was intended. And I am indeed sorry for all those times you’ve waited for me on your bike in the stair-rods rain.

For my part, the resolution that I have ‘carried over’ for the last ten years is that of punctuality.

Incorrigible lateness is not due to an arrogant belief that my time is more precious than that of those waiting for me - far from it - when I arrive twenty minutes late for an appointment or gathering, I do so midway through acts of self-flagellation, angry at myself for having ‘done it again.’

The irony does not elude me that when typing my name at the end of a text message, the predictive function steps in to automatically change my name from ‘Kate’ to ‘Late’.

More often than not, I add a kiss and so, unintentionally, sign off as ‘Latex’ - which is a quite different article altogether!

A few years ago, an article in The Times Newspaper described lateness as an unrealistic view of time and what can be fitted into it. A group of habitually late and habitually punctual people were asked to read for 3 minutes without looking at the time. Punctual readers stopped short of the three minutes, yet those who are infuriatingly late as a rule read on and on .... and

It might appear that there is no hope for me and yet I would just like to drop it in that I was smugly punctual in submitting this piece of writing. Maybe, just maybe this is the year that my resolution is fulfilled.

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Your Diary of a Country Lady

Over Hill and Dale

booted legs, pouring a flask of tea into china cups - one of my few extravagances but a standard I feel is worth holding onto. It is moving to know that Clent (or Kinter as it appears in the Domesday Book) has given pleasure to many generations. Lord Lyttelton was inspired to build follies all over the range of Walton, Clent and Wychbury hills in the 1750s, the most famous one being ‘The Four Stones’ marking the summit of Clent Hill. It’s not quite Stone Henge I admit, but statuesque nonetheless and perhaps worthy of a solstice pagan ritual.

Long walks over the hills of Clent and Walton are compulsory in our family much to the chagrin of the children. My daughter once gave up walking over the Clent Hills for Lent and resolutely saw it through all the way to Easter! However recently, in ‘Explorers’ (an extension of scouts), groups of teenagers were dropped in various locations over Clent and Walton Hills and instructed to find their way back to the scout hut. This was when Susannah came into her own. Casting aside the map, she led her group down the hill in the encroaching gloom, through ‘The Bicknells’ (alongside Hagley hall) and to the hut in record time. On hearing of the triumph, we asked if she now saw the positives of her muddy up-bringing. The reply - a resounding ‘no’!

Then there is the fame brought by J.R. Tolkein.

Such was his knowledge and love of the Clent Hills that he drew on them in his descriptions of landscapes and scenes in The Hobbit. This is a fact that my husband and sons take very seriously. And so ensues the wielding of sticks and charging down the slopes of Killi, Filli and Bilbo Baggins.

Yet I feel that living near the Clent Hills might be akin, in some ways, to the joy of living by the coast. By this I mean that we have pleasure of witnessing the landscape and horizon in all weathers and all seasons. Gazing out to the Malverns and Black Mountains is just as glorious through autumn mist and winter ice when fingers and toes are blue with cold, as it is during summer months when Clent is filled with day-trippers in pursuit of the legendary bacon sandwiches sold at the Nimmings Cafe.

“Who shall I be?” I call to them running rather too many steps behind, china mugs clanking (smashing) in my rucksack.

“Bombur!” comes the reply. Contentment is mine all the way home to the point of looking up Bombur”s credentials on Wikipedia: “His main traits being fatness and a green hood” Thanks kids!

So this is where we will be found this spring: overspilling on a bench, swinging out wellie-

49

Your What’s On

Whats on March / April MARCH

Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton. The first is The Snow Maiden, its first showing in the UK; the following night sees the company stage Sleeping Beauty, and on its final performance is the classic Swan Lake.

Crufts Sunday 13 March

Tickets cost between £18-39.

The world’s greatest dog show will once again be staged at the NEC, Birmingham from 10 13 March 2016. AR Events is offering an official top quality VIP package on the final day of the event to take in the whole Crufts experience as well as the excitement of the ‘Best in Show’ finale. The package will include a full day’s catering in the fabulous new VOX conference facility situated in Resort World just a few yards from the entrance to the Genting Arena.

The best seats for the show will be included in the package.

For details, visit www.grandtheatre.co.uk or telephone the box office on 01902 429212.

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Friday 25 - 28 March, 11am-4pm Perfect for chocoholics, Wightwick Manor and Gardens, near Tettenhall, is hosting an Easter egg hunt – find the bunnies hiding in the gardens, follow the trails and enjoy a host of family crafts. No booking required but it costs £2.50 per child to take part. Dogs will not be allowed at this event.

For details, email wightwickmanor@ nationaltrust.org.uk or telephone 01902 760106.

All Star Superslam Wrestling Thursday 31 March All Star Superslam Wrestling celebrates 45 years of presenting live wrestling at Dudley Town Hall. It’s entertainment for all the family, where you can see American wrestlers take on home-grown talent.

The Russian State Ballet of Siberia

Tickets are £12 adults, £10 children or £40 for a family ticket (4). For details, telephone 01384 812 812 or 0870 320 7000 or book online at www.dudley.gov.uk/see-and-do/ entertainment-live/whats-on.

Sunday 20 - 22 March The world renowned company is performing three shows on consecutive nights at The

50

Your

APRIL

What’s On

acclaimed Don’t Believe A Word tour to Stourbridge, which exposes and debunks myths.

Marvellous Imaginary Menagerie

£14 plus booking fee. For details, telephone 01384 812 812 or 0870 320 7000 or book online at www.dudley.gov.uk/see-and-do/ entertainment-live/whats-on

Wednesday 6 April A magnifical, tremendible and fantasticulous experience, with puppets, music and magic.

Ideal for all the family.

Stourbridge Town Hall at 1pm. Tickets cost £12 adults, £9 for children under 15, or £40 for a family of four. For details, telephone 01384 812 812 or 0870 320 7000 or book online at www.dudley.gov.uk/see-and-do/ entertainment-live/whats-on.

Spring Horse Trials Saturday 9 - 10 April Weston Park in Shifnal hosts this event, which incorporates dressage and also includes the Charles Owen FEI Pony Trial, Askham Bryan Open Intermediate Under 21 competition, including a Young Rider and Hows Racesafe Junior Trial, and the British Intermediate Championship Qualifier.

Speed Into Spring Saturday 30 April - Sunday 1 May

For details, visit www.westonht.co.uk or telephone 01952 852100.

A must for motor sports lovers, the Speed into Spring is the first meeting of the year at Shelsley Walsh, Worcestershire, as drivers race to the top of the hill – a 1,000-yard course with a 1:7 rise at its steepest point – reaching speeds of up to 140mph. Saturday is practice day and Sunday is the event day, with races starting at about 9.15am.

British Police Symphony Orchestra Saturday 16 April Worcester Cathedral plays host to the British Police Symphony Orchestra. For ticket price details, visit www.worcestercathedral.co.uk or telephone 01905 732900.

Practice Day costs £10 in advance or £12 on the gate; race day costs £12 in advance or £15 on the day. A weekend ticket can be bought in advance for £20. Accompanied under 16s can watch for free.

Mitch Benn – Stourbridge Town Hall Tuesday 26 April, 8pm

For more details, visit www.shelsley-walsh. co.uk/ or telephone 01886 812211.

Comedian Mitch Benn brings his critically

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Learn to swim New enrolments being taken for 1 week only from 9th March and from 18th May. Learning how to swim is a crucial life skill and one that everyone, regardless of their age should learn to do. South Staffordshire Swim Academy offers local people of all ages the opportunity to learn to swim for health, safety and for fun.

• • • •

Your

What’s On

Badge schemes providing encouragement Free success trackers Lessons run term time and in school holidays to ensure continual progression one to one lessons available on request* Assistants in the water in beginner classes to support weaker swimmers and help build confidence

The academy, which operates at all four of South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres, offers high quality swimming tuition at affordable prices. Lessons are available from 3yrs up to adults for beginners and non-swimmers to advanced. Classes have good teacher/child ratios. Lessons are run throughout the year to ensure continual progression and assistants are always in the water to aid weaker classes and give additional support for swimmers.

What’s more, those who enrol get:

What else makes us special?

Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre 01922 417790 Codsall Leisure Centre 01902 844032 Penkridge Leisure Centre 01785 714152 Wombourne Leisure Centre 01902 898202

• • •

Professionally trained staff Good teacher to child ratios Prices from just £16.40 per month

FREE

• • •

FREE swimming for those who pay by Direct Debit FREE success tracker One to one lessons available on request (extra charge)

For more information visit www.sstaffs.gov.uk/ leisure. Alternatively you can visit one of the leisure centres or call on:

"

CHILD SWIM PASS

NAME.................................................................................POSTCODE.........................

DATE...............................LEISURE CENTRE.................................................................

Voucher valid until 30th April 2016 Terms and Conditions: Voucher gives holder 1 free swim during a public swim session.

Voucher cannot be redeemed for use in swimming lessons. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Adult to child ratio’s apply for under 8’s. 1 voucher per person, per publication. Voucher must be presented at reception. Contact your leisure centre to check swim times.

visit www.sstaffs.gov.uk/leisure

Learn

To Swim

6653

YLM March/April 2016

Your What’s On

Reasons to Visit... Edgbaston It’s well known for being home to Warwickshire Cricket Club, for the beautiful Botanical Gardens, and for its elegant tree-lined streets with Victorian and Edwardian villas. But there are more delights to enjoy in this leafy Birmingham suburb than you might realise.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens are a delight to enjoy all year round

chef-patron, restaurateur and mentor to many Birmingham chefs.

You have to delve into the history books to find out why leafy Edgbaston became one of the most upmarket and affluent parts of Birmingham.

Curving round the south and west sides of the city, the land was in control of the GoughCalthorpe family in the 19th century and they refused to allow factories or warehouses to be built on land in the area.

However, it did provide the original grand homes for the manufacturers of the city who built up Birmingham’s industrial might – and Edgbaston still retains its identity as a green oasis in the heart of Birmingham.

Simpsons, the Michelin star rated restaurant, is perfect for fine food lovers

If pub food is your choice, The White Swan, in Harborne Road, is one of the most popular food and drink haunts on the patch with a menu of modern British interwoven with Mediterranean influences.

Spend a day in Edgbaston and you will be pleasantly surprised by wide range of fine restaurants and pubs, parks, sporting venues and local history sites to visit.

For a fine steak, travel along Hagley Road and you will find Fiesta Del Asado, Birmingham’s first Argentine restaurant. Asado dishes are typically no-nonsense, rustic, yet colourful and fiery – you could say the culinary equivalent of the Argentine Tango!

Nestling next to the Victorian architecture of St George’s Church in Highfield Road is Simpsons, the Michelin star rated restaurant headed up by Andreas Antona, Michelin

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Your

What’s On

A little further along Hagley Road – heading towards Five Ways – is The Plough & Harrow Hotel, a country house style hotel where you can soak up the history and dine and relax in sumptuous surroundings.

The golf club entrance is next to Edgbaston Old Church, where you can find a memorial to Dr William Withering, who discovered digitalis, which is derived from the foxglove and used to treat heart disease.

This popular haunt has links with author JRR Tolkien. The night before Tolkien went off to fight in the First World War, he stayed at the Plough & Harrow on his honeymoon.

The green theme continues at the grand Winterbourne House & Gardens. The house was restored in 2010 to its original Edwardian arts and crafts splendour and is set within seven acres of beautiful botanic gardens.

Nearby are two elaborate towers - Perret’s Folley and the Edgbaston Waterworks – the buildings on which Tolkien is said to have based his Two Towers in the Lord of the Rings novels.

For acres of green space, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens is a must. It’s not just for garden lovers, it’s a great family day out, too.

If you want to visit an inspiring art gallery, the Barber Institute is a real gem, containing works of art by Monet, Renoir, Rubins, Degas… the list goes on.

There are four stunning glasshouses showing tropical rainforest to arid desert as well as beautiful grounds to stroll around, a playground, tearoom and delightful shop.

Adjoining the Botanical Gardens is the oldest tennis club in the world - Edgbaston Archery & Lawn Tennis Society. The game itself was developed by Major Harry Gem and his friend Augurio Perera in Edgbaston between 1859 and 1865.

Barber Institute Gallery

Cannon Hill Park is a reminder that Birmingham has more parks than any other city in Europe. There are beautiful walks and pools to enjoy, as well as a visit to mac Birmingham, a first-class art centre with lovely cafe.

Edgbaston Priory Club in Sir Harry’s Road has world-class tennis and racket ball facilities and hosts the very popular Aegon Classic women’s tennis tournament, which is one of the best-value sporting days out, complete with a ladies day. This year, it takes place between June 11 and 19.

Youngsters in the family will enjoy The Nature Centre, on Pershore Road. It’s a haven for small creatures, including the all-popular comical meerkats.

Martina Navratilova and Steffi Graf and many more have enjoyed playing on glorious grass courts before going on to Wimbledon.

Teenage sports enthusiasts might be more interested in a visit to the impressive Edgbaston Stadium. Home to Warwickshire County Cricket Club, it also hosts Test matches, t20 games and one-day internationals and in the summer months you never know which celebrity cricketer or commentator you may bump in to.

Nearby is one of the region’s finest golf clubs, Edgbaston Golf Club, with immaculately groomed greens, sweeping tree-lined fairways and spectacular views.

55

Your What’s On

Grand Theatre - UK Annie Tour

Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery and torment at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Determined to find her real parents, her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search…

songs ‘It’s the Hard Knock Life’, ‘Easy Street’, ‘I Don’t Need Anything But You’ and ‘Tomorrow’.

Lesley Joseph will star as the tyrannical Miss Hannigan and is best known for playing ‘Dorien Green’ in the hugely successful sitcom Birds of a Feather alongside Pauline Quirke and Linda Robson. They recorded over 100 episodes over a period of nine years. Lesley and her co-stars returned to our screens in Birds of a Feather in 2013 with a second series airing earlier this year.

Lesley’s theatre credits include Miss Hannigan in Annie at the West End’s Victoria Palace and also on national tour. Her other touring credits include Calendar Girls and Hot Flush! both of which have played at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre in recent years.

The musical is famous for it’s award-winning book and score and includes the unforgettable

Lesley is joined by Alex Bourne as Oliver ‘Daddy’ Warbucks who recently played Khashoggi in

Produced by Michael Harrison, the man behind tours of The Bodyguard, Barnum, the 2015 West End sell-out Gypsy and the Grand Theatre’s 2015/16 pantomime Peter Pan, a brand new UK tour of ANNIE will play at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from Monday 4 – Saturday 9 April 2016.

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Your We Will Rock You at the Dominion Theatre and Kiss Me Kate at the Chichester Festival Theatre and Old Vic Theatre. Holly Dale Spencer will play Grace Farrell, Jonny Fines is Rooster and Djalenga Scott plays Lily.

What’s On

Joining them will be Asha Banks, Rosanna Beacock, Chloe Bowes, Connie Burgess, Claudia Carlier, Jessica Cartledge, Scarlet Churchhouse, Scarlett Flannery, Ashley Goldberg, Mia Hope, Amelia Love Coleman, Lissy Mant, Daisy Parry, Natasha Raphael, Nikoo Saeki, Liani Samuel, Kate Woodman and Tegan Williams.

The company also includes James Alan- Evans, Lewis Bradley, Nic Gibney, Sinead Kenny, Michael Lin, Alice Liveing, Megan Louch, Callum McArdle, Benjamin Mundy, Steven Oliver, Heather ScottMartin, Anne Smith, Kate Somerset How.

ANNIE is directed by Nikolai Foster, set and costume design by Colin Richmond, choreography by Nick Winston, lighting by Ben Cracknell and sound design by Richard Brooker.

Music is by Charles Strouse, Lyrics by Martin Charnin and a Book by Thomas Meehan.

Sharing the title role of Annie will be Madeleine Haynes, Isabella Pappas and Sophia Pettit.

WIN 2 TICKETS TO SEE ANNIE Monday 4 April at 7:30pm In what City is ‘Annie’ set?

1) Paris 2) New York 3) London To enter email your answer to the question above to info@yourlifestylemagazine.co.uk

57

Your What’s On

Royston and Nick’s Diary The highlight of the year for all at Royston Blythe`s is their spectacular Annual party.

120 guests were invited to celebrate another successful year for the teams from their Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury salons.

Collins, strutting her stuff! Gemma`s gorgeous locks are her crowning glory and she is a massive fan of big, beautiful hair, she is a woman who loves a fabulous blow dry! To prepare her for the show, Welsh Nick from the Shrewsbury salon travelled down to Essex to create her look with Rapture hair extensions and she really wowed the audience!!!

They celebrated in style at The Park House in Shifnal with a themed evening of glitz and glamour, which gave everyone the chance to dress to impress!!! Greeting the guests with champagne were four gorgeous looking hosts and X-Factor’s Finalist Niki Evans. Among the guests were celebrity friends Claire Caudwell, Dawn and Ashley Ward, Leanne Brown and last year`s winner of Celebrity Big Brother James Hill The evening was hosted by the International Globe girls who really know how to start a party, the entertainment was hot, hot, hot including fire eaters and top international male entertainer Stallion. It really was a night to remember!

Net-a-porter

Launch party of Geisha

Dawn and Ashley Ward are brand Ambassadors for net-a-porter, so to launch this seasons designs they threw a party at their magnificent home in Cheshire. Fans and friends of this iconic online shopping experience, were given the chance of a sneak preview of what`s hot on the catwalk and then the chance to buy it at a pop up shop the next day. Let`s just say with all the bags Nick and Royston came home with, it was a very successful weekend.

With the opening of Birmingham`s latest exclusive cocktail club Geisha, Nick and Royston were invited to the launch party by owner and friend Riad Erraji. Joining them for the night were The Real Housewives of Cheshire stars, Dawn and Nicola and Tv Personality Callum Best, they kicked off the evening in Fumo before parting the night away in the luxurious VIP area.

Claire Caudwell`s Birthday Party.

Twenty close friends were invited to London to celebrate Claire Caudwell`s birthday. The evening`s celebrations were held at the lavish Park Chinois in Berkeley Street, where they have recreated the glamorous 1930`s dinner and dancing experience. The guests enjoyed a gourmet delight in their opulent private dining room and the evening was a scream.

Unsurprisingly, the fun and frolics continued well into the night at the legendary club Annabel’s, a favourite among royalty and Hollywood stars alike.

Celebrity Big Brother.

As massive fans of Big Brother, we were delighted to see one of our clients Gemma

58

Your Wedding

Shaping Up For Your Wedding Every bride wants to look her best on her wedding day and with all the Christmas goodies now out of the way it is time to turn your attention to fitting into the dream dress and looking great on your big day. However, with all the wedding planning madness, sometimes it’s tough to stick to the diet or exercise regime as closely as you might want to. Snacks or convenience meals are easy to fall back on when you are desperately trying to address your list of things to do and trucking off to the gym may be pushed down the list of weekly mustdos when you’re grabbing every spare second to do wedding “stuff”.

There are a few ways in which you can look your best in your wedding dress without hitting the gym every day or driving yourself crazy with diet fads. It’s all about choosing a dress that suits your shape and hides your less favourite bits!

You should know by now what body shape you are and what style of dress suits you. If you are lucky enough to have the clothes horse figure then you can pretty much wear anything you desire. However, you may want to highlight some of your best bits and you may have bits of you which you rather weren’t emphasised.

It’s all about choosing a style that accentuates your assets and helps to tone down the less favourable areas.

Invest in some good shape-wear such as Spanx which are lightweight, breathable and available is many styles. They are also available in different materials, so you can find garments that won’t cling to your gown’s fabric but will still nip and tuck you in all the right places. Again take it along to the fitting to match it up with dress.

Get a Good Support System

Flatter Your Figure

Before we get on to what style suits what body type it’s important to address the undergarments. The key to a sleek silhouette is wearing appropriate underwear that fits well and most importantly remains hidden. To avoid the dreaded bra bulge and create the right amount of cleavage get a professional bra fitting to be sure you’re wearing the right size.

Take a bra along to your fitting so that you can see if it will suit the shape of your gown and remain unseen.

If you would rather hide your tummy, hips and legs then go for an empire waistline in a soft, light, whimsical fabric such a silk crepe. This style of dress flows out from beneath the bust line and therefore falls softly over the hips in a gentle fashion hiding any bumps that you might have underneath. It is especially suited to a more ample bosom however it can be particularly effective for accentuating smaller breasts if the fabric is gathered over the bust and pulled tidily

59

Your Wedding

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underneath with the skirt falling away in ripples.

If you do want to hide your hips and thighs but want to show off your waist and bust then go for a full skirted style with a fitted top half. Choose a bodice that fits snugly showing off your bust and waist. A full skirt, especially if the top few layers are in a light almost see-through fabric such as tulle or netting, make your waist appear even smaller (and therefore your bust bigger) but springs lightly away from the bodice totally camouflaging everything from the waist down.

Ladies Designer Wear

Your first choice for mother of the bride and groom, cruise and evening wear. Stocking stunning outfits and matching accessories from British and International designers. Jan and her team are always on hand to ensure you look your best for any occasion.

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If you want to suck it all in, a corseted ball gown style is the best option to show off your bust and add some curves to your waistline. Look for a corset that finishes below the waist line almost onto your hips. This way you can elongate the line from bust to hip giving yourself more room to create the curve of the waistline. If you are small busted the corset can tend to squash your shape and leave you looking somewhat deflated.

Look for a dress where the corset structure starts just underneath the bust and perhaps has some soft gathered or pleated fabric over the bosom to add depth and fullness. This way you get that nipped in waist but keep your bust looking fuller, padded out by the gathering and pleating that tucks neatly into the top of the corset starting directly underneath the bust.

Main shop open: Mon - Sat 9.45am - 4.45pm Hawkeswood Lodge, Old High Street, Quarry Bank, West Midlands. DY5 2JR

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Our sale shop has moved to Quarry Bank High St, opposite the main shop and is open: Mon - Thurs, 10 - 4.30pm, Friday 10-2pm and Sat 10 - 4.30pm Huge savings on a stunning range of designer wear 22b High Street, Quarry Bank, West Midlands DY52JW Tel: 07914 687630

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Your Wedding

If you are more straight up and down then you might want to try and create some curves. Try a fishtail or mermaid shape. These dresses have a sculpted bodice and a skirt that flares out from the mid-thigh or even the knee. This shape will hug your figure nicely in all the right areas creating dips and curves that follow the shape of your bust, waist and hips. If you are lacking in the waist department look for a dress that remains fitted right down the knee. This draws the line of the dress in and down giving you a longer line and creates a curve at the waistline.

Another tip to create a curvaceous waist is to choose a dress with a V shape bodice preferable both at the neck and waist. If you really donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel that a waist can be achieved and you have the

height for it try a column dress in a silky, fluid fabric such as Charmeuse. This style is elegant and flattering with the fabric falling from the bust and alludes to curves underneath despite there not being any.

If you think your legs are a good asset then have them on show. A ballerina length skirt teamed with a spectacular pair of heels shows off the ankle and calf beautifully and hints as to what lies beneath the soft folds or your skirt.

If you are still unsure a good all-rounder for every body type is the A-line silhouette which fits at the bust and waist with a skirt that gently flares out from the hips.

61

Your Wedding

Mumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the word What is the next best thing to your own wedding day? The wedding day of your son or daughter, of course! But what should mums do to ensure they do their children proud on this happiest of days?

We find out ...

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Your Wedding We suggest the following:

From the moment a couple announce their engagement, brides-to-be go into overdrive as they start thinking about what she will wear on the big day.

* Your hat should not cast shadows cast on the face – it doesn’t look good on the photographs – so pick something that lets light through or the brim is turned outwards.

But there are two other special women on the female cast list who will also start planning their outfits just as carefully – the mothers of the bride and groom.

* Try to keep the brim of the hat within the width of the shoulders if you don’t want to look top heavy

There aren’t many rules governing their outfits but as they are centre stage (almost!) for most of the day they can afford to dress up.

* Avoid heavy brims and high-collared jackets or you may find on the photographs that your face disappears into the neck. * Big hats suit lower neckline outfits and they also balance well with three-quarter length jackets or longer dresses.

The main consideration is choosing an outfit that is practical, comfortable and smart that can withstand a long day of ceremonies, speeches and evening celebrations ahead.

* Summery prints often go better with feathered or netted headdresses.

It’s best if the mothers avoid wearing white and only choose a cream outfit if the bride is in something more unconventional, such as red or gold.

Mothers will obviously want to look their best on this very special day, but one final piece of advice: please ensure that you do not upstage the bride!

Gone are the days of mothers wearing clashing outfits on the day. It’s common sense for them to consult with the couple and with each other about colour and style choices so that the wedding party’s attire tones into an overall scheme that is both visually pleasing and complementary.

But while the mothers agree a plan, there is one other danger to consider - another relative wearing the same outfit. This might happen if family and guests come from the same area and could buy their outfits from similar specialist stores.

In this case, it’s probably best to resort to the grapevine of family and friends and make it known early which colours you are wearing and the shades chosen for accessories. In that way, other female guests can steer clear!

‘John Charles’ Mother of the Bride - Available at Jantino

Hats can sometimes make or break an outfit.

63

Your Fashion

Spring Stripes

by Emma Russell –Stylissimo, Image Consultancy, www.stylissimo.co.uk The big print for the Spring Summer 2016 season is stripes, big bold and colourful is the way to make your look current and on trend.

vertical detail. It’s all to do with how the eye works. Horizontal stripes, on the other hand, will widen and shorten and are best worn by the slim and tall as their natural body proportions can balance out the appearance of the horizontal detail of the stripe and counteract its effects.

Designers embracing the trend included Dolce & Gabanna with their floor sweeping green striped shirt dress, Stella McCartney, Emporio Armani and Dior all giving the print their seal of approval.

Bold is better, this season, so aim to make a real statement with the stripes that you wear look for bright colour combinations and to stay true to the trend you need to take the look head to toe.

Topshop Dress

If the idea of this fills you with dread but you like the idea of looking taller then style your stripes with a plainer toned down piece, so that you’re still giving a nod to the trend without being a slave to it.

Stripes can be tricky to pull off, my advice is to always go for vertical stripes as they lengthen and slim your body, and who doesn’t want to look taller and slimmer right?

Vivid colours, ruffles and off the shoulder tops and dresses are also trends to look out for and the High Street has been fabulous at combining trends together. Oasis and River Island have taken these trends to their hearts and have given their customers plenty of choices with many pieces featuring these trends in this seasons collections.

As an Image Consultant I teach my clients how to create illusions with their clothes, how to re-proportion shorter legs and increase the appearance of your height through using

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Your Fashion I’m loving the use of bold bright colours, especially the vivid colour trend as seen at Gucci who had a real 80’s Deirdre Barlow vibe going on.

Oasis Off the Shoulder Maxi Dress

If you love the idea of wearing stripes but bold colours clash with your own style and tastes, maybe you would prefer a more monochromatic look and there are plenty of high contrast options out there. Black and white stripes may feel more accessible and much easier to wear for those with a more classic taste to their clothes.

Next with their striped boyfriend shirt keeps the trend casual.

My favourite High Street piece which brings this trend to life is the tomato red dress from Girls on Film. Clash your colours or wear with brightly coloured clashing accessories or a graphic print bag.

Next Striped Shirt £32

www.little-mistress.com Girls on Film, Tomato Red Dress £55

If stripes don’t appeal, there are plenty of trends around this Spring Summer season which may get your heart racing. There is a definite 90’s feel this season with the silk slip dress being a thing again, that whole Kate Moss bedroom to dance floor look featured on the Celine and Givenchy runways.

Winter is over, embrace the colour and step into a stylish Spring.

65

Your Horoscopes

Horoscopes with John Starkey Capricorn 21/12 - 9/01

T: 01902334224 W: www.john-starkey.co.uk E: johnstarkey123@outlook.com

Cancer 21/06 - 21/07

You need to be center stage and become the life and soul of the party. Do not be afraid to let others know what you are capable of and exhibit your talents as much as possible.

A rip roaring period of time lies ahead for you. Expect the unexpected as it will come at you from all directions and keep you on your toes. Life is getting better especially in the areas of work or business as a new phase of energy and ambition is appearing in this aspect of your life.

Aquarius 20/01 - 18/02 Your loving approach to life will pay dividends for you, particularly when it comes to improvements in personal relationships.

Perhaps you will be able to move out of the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;dog houseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and progress towards a brighter future.

Leo 22/07 - 21/08 It is essential that you keep a padlock on that powerful and unpredictable fiery Leo temper, take a deep breath before letting rip.

Your talents are about to erupt to the surface, so nothing should be allowed to stand in the way of that. Success is now well within your reach with a little bit of tenacity.

Pisces 19/02 - 20/03 The optimism which you are showing at the moment, seems to be generating a lot of positive energy that could motivate you towards exploiting lots of great opportunities that are heading in your direction. Fortunate when it comes to matters of finance, so keep this in mind and make the most of any advantages that are heading your way.

Virgo 22/08 - 22/09 Even though it is difficult to make decisions at certain times, it is imperative that you do make some in the next week or so. You are now forging a better future for yourself, so take the bull by the horns and act now.

Remember think lucky.

Aries 21/03 - 20/04 An unexpected windfall of cash could be just what the doctor ordered in order to boost your bank balance. You may be tempted to splash the cash, but keeping some in reserve would be a wise move to keep you happy on a rainy day.

Libra 23/09 - 22/10 Exert your authority in the way that you can come to the forefront and emerge as the leader of the pack. Others will benefit from your gentle guidance and positive can do attitude with this level of motivation the world is your oyster, so just do it and enjoy.

Taurus 21/04 - 20/05 An impromptu journey could introduce you to a new circle of people and beneficial contacts. Expect a reorganisation when it comes to work and business , you could be making positive career advances very shortly so make them work for you.

Scorpio 23/10 - 22/11 After the passing of a negative new moon, you can now let your hair down and have a ball. This new found freedom should help you to raise your life to the next level.

Gemini 21/06 - 20/06

Sagittarius 23/11 - 20/12

With the movement of the planet Venus, it looks as if your love life should be starting to sizzle and hot up considerably. Those who matter will notice the change in you as cupids arrow is most certainly pointing in your direction. Time to shake off the dust.

Hold fire before you make any major decisions, take your time as treading water for a week or two will give you chance to decide what you really want to do before you jump into the deep end.

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We are very excited to present to you Jodie Eccleston, the first of our two fantastic stylists.

Jodie has been previously trained by Ashley himself as one of his first assistants, since then her career has gone from strength to strength.

She is already in demand due to her outstanding abilities excelling and producing beautiful results.

Within the salon you will see Jodie creating modern crops ,fabulous extensions and perfectly sleek Keratin smoothing treatments.

Not to mention being the Queen of the curly blow.

One of our most exciting young stars in the Ashley Gamble stables.

Chloe has spent years perfecting her craft to become a stylist who listens to her clients needs and reflects this in every area of her career.

A master in precision barbering techniques for all those gents that like to look after their appearance, a perfection and precision that spreads into every area of her hairdressing.

Whether you’re wanting a cool up do for a big night out,or a modern restyle this girl is ready to excel with a friendly smile.

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71

Your Health

Award Winning Dental Lion Dental Centre first opened in August 2014. Its location next to Lion Health Centre, Lowndes Road in Stourbridge, offers a modern environment and idyllic setting with a large free car park so accessing the practice is easy.

We have a highly experienced friendly team and offer the following services to our patients: General Dentistry, Implants, Dentures, Tooth Whitening, Cosmetic Smile Makeovers, Facial Aesthetics and Invisalign. We also offer free same day emergency assessments to new patients so whether you have pain, swelling or a broken tooth give us a call.

Centre

your routine dental care whilst ensuring you have access to regular visits to monitor your dental health. Regular visits make sure you are in excellent dental health and prevent big problems developing. We also offer high quality white fillings which look as good as your own natural tooth.

Francesca Dash is an award winning Invisalign provider at Lion Dental Centre. She has treated over 1000 men, women and children with Invisalign giving them the straight, white teeth they always wanted. She is the only female in the country to have reached diamond status with Invisalign. This award presented by Invisalign is in recognition of her experience and excellent customer service. Invisalign is a much more discrete way to straighten your teeth and it is virtually invisible. We offer FREE CONSULTATIONS to discuss Invisalign so start your Invisalign journey today by calling 01384 376336 to book your free consultation.

Lion Dental Centre offers an affordable Dental Care Plan which costs just £11.95 per month, that’s less than £3.00 per week. The Dental Care Plan includes two dental examinations and two routine hygienist appointments per year. Dental Care Plan patients also benefit from a 20% discount off routine treatment and are covered by a worldwide accident and emergency insurance. The Dental Care Plan is cost effective and affordable as you can spread the cost of

We are also very fortunate to have Implantologist

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Your Health acrylic, chrome, flexi and implant retained dentures and have a wide range of shades to choose from. Chaitra’s aim is to provide patients with natural looking dentures which improve quality of life as they will give facial support as well as playing an important part in biting and chewing.

David Cottam at Lion Dental Centre. He has over 30 year’s experience within oral surgery and placing Implants. Consultations with David for Implants are £95.00. This fee includes any x-rays we need as part of the assessment and is deducted off your Implant price if you go ahead with treatment. Implants are a permanent replacement for missing teeth so you do not have to worry about loose dentures. David also offers Implant Retained Dentures for much more secure fitting dentures.

We are also pleased to welcome Bare Face Aesthetics to our team. They are working from Lion Dental Centre to offer you their specialist treatments in wrinkle reduction and Facial Aesthetics improvements. They also offer FREE CONSULTATIONS.

Cosmetic Smile Makeovers are of great interest to Anthony Dash. He offers FREE CONSULTATIONS to discuss your smile and how you wish to improve it whether it be Tooth Whitening or Crowns/Veneers. He is happy to discuss your treatment options and advise you on how best to transform your smile.

To book a new patient examination or a consultation to discuss any of the treatments we offer at Lion Dental Centre please call our friendly and helpful reception team on 01384 376336. We offer late evening and early morning appointments for your ease. Have a look at our website www.liondentalcentre.co.uk to find out more about Lion Dental Centre. If you are on facebook you can have look at and like our page Lion Dental Centre. Hope to see you soon!

Chaitra Hejmadi is a General Dentist and enjoys providing high quality Dentures for patients with missing teeth. She works closely with the dental laboratory and the patient to ensure the best possible fitting denture. We offer private

73

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What was hugely the help be given to people something for everyone.

Street practice on time with merely a vision check 01902 has now 757454 to arrange A thorough examination is necessary to diagnose at one suffering Dry Eye and Blepharitis. the specific causes for the dryness and then become a mini health examination, checking an appointment.

One thing is certain - there is no need to continue Sheward Opticianstreatment run Dry Eye and Blepharitis for glaucoma, recommended. cataracts and retinal disorders

30 years and moving with the

times

Sheward Opticians run Dry Eye and Blepharitis clinics to assess the severity and cause of the problem and to make recommendations for treatment to alleviate the problem. A follow-up

to suffer with these distressing symptoms.

as well as general conditions such as high feel that and you may benefit from an assessbloodIf you pressure diabetes to name but a few. ment, telephone our Tettenhall High Street practice

Having trouble finding suitable frames?

S@M Sheward are experts in all areas of on 01902 757454 to arrange an appointment.

optometry and offer specialist services for

measuring and fitting, contact lens We are happy to accept prescriptionsvarifocal from other opticians. trials and conditions such as dry eye. The consulting room is now a high tech place with complex equipment and highly trained

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Designer ranges - Calvin Klien, Hackett, Ana Hickman, Davidioff, Roberto Cavalli

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Get feet fit for spring with The your perfect sterile pedicure some FOOT THERAPY We all love to be pampered, whether it’s for a special occasion or just a feel good treat.

It’s that of year againforms whereofthe weather One of time the most popular pampering isis getting warmer and we want to slip our than feet a pedicure. There’s no better feeling into a nice pair of sandals.

However, after being having your feet look and feel good and here locked those winter boots, at Footinto Therapy, that’s our aim.your feet are dry and rough and in need of a new lease of life.

Now the time yourChiropody, feet.

Asideis from the to 30treat minute we also provide a service called the Steri-Pedi (short Looking a place which to go?gives Don’tallworry.

That’s for sterilefor pedicure) the joy of a pedicure a fewcomes addedinto extras. where Footwith Therapy action. We offer a whole range of treatments whether its having As afullmedical practice it’srid important to us that the chiropody to get of that unwanted we avoid any risk to our patients, suchtoes as hard skin or a simple pedicure to get your the spread of infection.

This can happen by looking perfect. We have HCPC Registered using polish previouslyand been used podiatrists to that sort has any ailments qualified on someone with fungal nail.

There is also beauticians who use the latest and the best a risk of damaging the nail plates if you products just for you, whether it be shellac go or for a treatment with someone who has had Orly polish. inadequate training.

Nearly everything Foot Therapy use is used only on you (apart from the cuticle pusher and cuticle nipper which are sterilised above 130 degrees Celsius to kill any germs). We use disposable nail brushes and a small separate dish for base and top coat to avoid contaminating the bottle.

We also let you take the mini nail varnish home so it is not used on anyone else and it’s perfect for the odd touch up.

What makes a Foot Therapy Steri-Pedi stand out: So are you waiting for? Put your best foot • what No cross contamination forward with Foot Therapy • Your feet look and feel great • us You to 214022. take the nail polish file and Call onget 01902 buffer home!

75ϴϳ

Your Health

Essential care “We think that payment plans are the most effective way of paying for your private dental care”.

We’ve come a long way since 3500 BC when the first toothbrush was created by fraying the end of a twig! And toothpaste was made of all sorts of weird and wonderful things like honey, ground shells, mice or lizard liver! Yet, even then there was a realisation that keeping your teeth and gums clean was an important part of a healthy lifestyle.

We have always been convinced that payment plan patients are less likely to cancel their appointments and therefore less likely to need expensive and complex treatment later on.

And there are other reasons for taking good care of your oral health. It’s now widely recognised that there are links between our oral and overall health. Tooth decay and gum disease are linked in some way to whole-body conditions such as diabetes, heart attacks and strokes. These are not easily cured and home care for teeth and gums, diet and lifestyle all play a major role in keeping these conditions under control. Your dentist and/or hygienist can show you the most effective way of keeping your teeth clean. They can also advise you on what food and drinks are best avoided and those that can help keep your teeth in good condition.

Keeping dentally fit isn’t that expensive or that difficult. And just seeing a dentist on a regular basis can make all the difference to the health of your teeth and gums. Most parts of our bodies can repair themselves (with time and treatment) – your teeth cannot! Once a tooth is damaged or even had restorative work carried out, they will always remain weak.

Tooth decay and gum disease are two of the most common conditions. It’s estimated that 50% of adults have periodontitis (gum disease)+ and that more than one fifth of those affected have the severe form of the disease. The good news is that your dental team can provide the support needed to prevent or control this disease.

Given that taking the preventive path to dentistry is by far the best approach we aim to encourage regular attendance and to provide our patients with the best means possible to see us as and when we recommend.

We offer Denplan Care and Denplan Essentials which are dental payment plans that cover the cost of all your preventive dental care and a significant amount of your restorative dental treatment.

Stourcote Dental Practice • 160 Lower High Street • Stourbridge • DY8 1TS

01384 394 215 www.stourbridgedentists.co.uk

MSS3991 Stourcote Dental Advertorial 02-16.indd 1

76

MSS3991 02-16

+ Opinions on this figure can vary

09/02/2016 14:25

Your Health

Mind Your Posture: Active Ageing We are living in an era of significant population ageing and it is time to pay attention to the role posture plays in keeping us fit and active into our later years. Consumer research carried out by the British Chiropractic Association highlighted the need for attention and action, no matter what age you might be.

•

•

Whilst our bodies start to slow down naturally, there are some simple everyday steps that can be taken to help preserve you back and posture into your older years.

• •

Henryk Kulyna and the Chiropractors at The Tettenhall Road Chiropractic Clinic recommend: • •

Stay as active as you can within your physical limitations.

Walking is a great way to stay active and the benefits are underestimated. It is less strenuous on joints than many other forms

•

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77

of exercise but is weight bearing and so can help maintain bone density too.

A moving joint is likely to be less painful than a static one, so even simple movement, stretches or gentle exercise could help relieve pain.

Promoting core strength and good posture by doing StraightenUpUk- a series of simple stretches and exercises is a good idea.

Look to increase levels of activity in simple ways e.g. walking to the shops, walking a little faster, using the stairs.

Keep fluid levels topped up; the body works better, muscles and joints work more efficiently and fatigue less when well hydrated. Drinking water is better than tea and coffee for hydration.

Always consult your Doctor or Chiropractor before embarking on new exercises to make sure the exercises are compatible with any of your medical conditions.

Your Health

feet are the wheels of

Your your car.

because they at the furthest part of the body, we tend to forget and neglect them. They are just tucked away in an out of sight , out of mind cupboard. The time we tend to pay most attention to them is, when they start hurting. Feet can be the most essential part of our body. For this reason, foot pains, corns, calluses, verrucas and discomfort can be described as the ‘tip of the iceberg’. As you all know it takes days, weeks, months and years for icebergs to form. So when your feet are hurting you, it’s a sign of need for attention to the much neglected feet.

Have your ever given consideration to your feet? When you think about the deep meaning of your feet, they truly are the wheels of your locomotor. If the wheels of your car were having problems, you would go to a mechanic and get them checked out and put them back on track.

For this reason, you would agree that good footcare is essential part of your daily well being.

When your feet are comfortable you are able to move freely and with confidence. The overall positive effects can be priceless as your quality of life is enhanced a thousand fold. Socrates once said,” To him whose feet hurt, everything hurts.”

Time to pick up the phone and make that call for much needy MOT of your wheels!

We look forward to looking after your feet and you.

How often do we think about our feet? Simply

78

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comes to having the perfect smile.

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Health

It’s never too early to start taking Smiles better - in just six months care of your child’s

teeth

subject. It’s estimated that over 46,000 children are admitted to hospital every year for tooth extraction with this number rising yearly. etops Advertorial 02-16.indd 1 Something like three in ten children do not see a dentist which can mean disease sets in from a very early age, often resulting in the need for treatment under general anaesthetic.

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Ring us on 01902 a free consultation. During the visit we 842 555 Dentists recognise the absolute need for to bookyour your appointment ortake go to www. will examine mouth and may children to learn at an early age how best to to find more. sometreetopsdentalsurgery.co.uk photographs or dental WeoutPrivate take care for their teeth x-rays. and gums. dentists can take the time to demonstrate to *w w w.theguardian.com/lifest yle/2014/ children and their parents the correct brushing may/03/british-teeth-smile-britons techniques as well as talk to them about what foods and drinks should be avoided to **http://www.dentistry.co.uk/ maintain healthy teeth.

01902 842555 52 Duck, Lane, Codsall, Wolverhampton WV8 1HF

www.treetopsdentalsurgery.co.uk

WINNER

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Your Jobs

Why I Love My Job ‘We want all pets to have the red-carpet treatment’ When Tracy and Mark Round wanted a new career challenge, they decided to combine their passion for pets with their business expertise. And thanks to their fussy eater dog, they found the perfect business venture.

For a nation of animal lovers, with owners who think nothing of lavishing their pets with the very best they can afford, being able to get a bespoke package of nutritional advice and food is just what the vet ordered for many.

Remember Victor Kiam – the American entrepreneur who was so impressed with Remington products that he bought the company?

And it means that the couple, who are keen to offer excellent customer service to both their four-legged friends and their owners, can combine their entrepreneurship skills with their love of animals.

It’s what happened to Mark and Tracy Round.

After successful careers in IT, marketing and sales, the Wordsley couple decided that they wanted a new challenge in their lives.

“Every day is different,” says Mark. “Meeting owners and their beautiful pets is definitely a plus point. Who wouldn’t love a job where you are greeted with a wagging tail or playful nudge?”

And because they are both long-time dedicated pet owners, buying into a pet food franchise seemed the ideal solution, particularly because Rosie – their “fur baby” – is a fussy eater.

Mark, who is working towards a nationally recognised pet nutrition qualification, said he loves helping owners to solve their pets’ problems.

“Like many pet owners we had struggled to find a good quality food that she would eat, and we went through a lot of different premium brands of food, all of which she refused to eat,” explains Tracy.

“Whether it’s advising a new pet owner, or observing changes in a pet’s vitality, mobility and quality of life, just by changing their diet,” he adds.

“Luckily for us, we found OSCAR, and she loves it. We were so impressed, we invested in a business.”

Because the couple bought a franchise, they have been given a lot of support from the company and provided a blueprint upon which to build their own business.

What makes OSCAR Pet Foods different from other brands is that it is not sold in stores or supermarkets; it is available only via its local nutritional advisors.

“We are extremely proud of the products we offer; our 100% honest label policy; and the services we provide,” says Tracy.

A personal pet service backed by more than 20 years of pet industry experience, OSCAR pet foods are free from artificial flavourings, colourings and preservatives – plus it’s made in the UK.

“We offer a free, tasting session of our dry foods for cats and dogs, which gives pets the opportunity to select their favourite OSCAR food.”

Mark and Tracy launched their own OSCAR pet food businesses from their Wordsley base in April 2015 and now offer an at-home pet service.

“Following the tasting session, pet owners may wish to try one of our dog or cat starter packs,

80

Your Jobs worked-a-treat and has slowed him right down.

It takes him 20 minutes now to eat his food.”

which contains a bag of food, leaflets, treats, and an airtight storage bucket, without having to commit to buying a large bag. It’s a popular option for customers wanting to try it out.”

Mark and Tracy offer a range of services via their OSCAR Pet Foods business. These include:

Mark and Tracy love hearing success stories from their customers – about how their pets have thrived after taking advice from them and trying out the food the couple has recommended.

• • • •

One customer admitted he was at his “wits’ end” because of his overweight, fast-eating, eightyear-old Cavalier King Charles, called Benjy.

• •

As well as gobbling down his food, the dog also had mobility issues due to arthritis and being overweight.

• • •

“He had always struggled with his fast-eating dog, who would typically eat his bowl of food within 20 seconds,” explains Mark. “As well as weight gain, this type of feeding behaviour can lead to very serious health problems, and it needed to be addressed promptly.”

Free nutritional advice Free behavioural advice Free pet weigh-in; and help with weightcontrol Premium quality complete dry foods for dogs and cats Moist foods for dogs.

Healthy treats, including dental, gluten free, sugar free and low fat Toys Healthcare Free home delivery

OSCAR Pet Foods also caters for small animals, wild birds and fish.

For more information or to arrange a taste trial – call Mark or Tracy on 01384 823589 or 07976 771058 or email mark.round@oscars.co.uk

After meeting Benjy and his owner, Mark and Tracy recommended a specific food – OSCAR Pinnacle+, which is gluten free and includes turkey and rice with glucosamine, MSM and chondroitin for joints, and is ideal for senior or overweight dogs, as well as those suffering with mobility problems.

You can find out more about OSCAR Pet Foods at www.oscars.co.uk and you can like Oscar Pet Foods Stourbridge on Facebook.

Competition question: OSCAR Pet Foods is offering one lucky cat or dog owner the chance to win three months’ OSCAR pet food, specifically selected to suit their pet’s needs.

To address his dog’s unhealthy habit of wolfing his food too quickly, the couple also recommended a Slo-Bowl, which is specially designed to encourage the dog to forage for food. As the dog has to use its tongue to forage, it forces it to eat at a slower, healthier pace.

To be in with a chance of winning this prize, which is worth up to £150 for a large dog, just answer the following question:

After just a few weeks on his dog’s new regime, the pet owner contacted Mark and Tracy, delighted at the transformation:

What are the names of Barack Obama’s two dogs?

To enter, email your answer to: mark.round@ oscars.co.uk and include your name, address, contact telephone number, and types and numbers of pets you have. The subject line should be: Your Lifestyle magazine competition.

“Benjy is like a different dog now: he’s full of energy and moves around a lot better,” he wrote.

“When my family visited the other day, they commented how healthy he looked. He loves his new food and there is NO WAY I’m feeding anything else from now on. The Slo-Bowl has

Entries close on Friday 15th April 2016 the winner will be picked at random.

81

Your Pets & Garden

CODSALL STONE & PAVING Everything to landscape your garden which will make going out into the garden a real joy.

Fencing and walling Paving Natural Stone Timber Decorative gravel Brick and blocks

01902 842216

sales@codsallstone.co.uk www.codsallstone.co.uk Codsall, Stone and Paving, Wergs Hall Road, Codsall, WV8 2HJ

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Your Pets & Garden

Reasons to visit Codsall & Wergs Garden Centre Codsall & Wergs is a family owned, family friendly garden centre. We pride ourselves on our knowledge and ability to source excellent quality plants and shrubs, whilst still giving the customer value for money. Whatever you are looking for, from vegetable plants, to specimen palms, from Summer bedding plants to Olive trees. Codsall & Wergs Garden Centre has it all.

Why not check out our ‘Do It Yourself Dog Wash’ Anglo Scottish Aquatics – Cold water and tropical fish, food, tanks, ponds, water plants etc.

Yeomans Outdoors – Tents and camping accessories, outdoor clothes and sundries.

Lawnmower Hospital - Sales and service for; lawnmowers, trimmers, hedge cutters, chainsaws etc.

Codsall & Wergs also offers a huge range of gifts for the gardener and everyone in the family. Come and browse round our large gift, glass and candle department aswell as cards and wrapping.

Eden Brasserie – Open daily serving breakfasts, carvery meals, lunches, coffee, tea and cakes.

Relax in style and see our exciting new range of garden furniture, BBQ’s, patio heaters, benches and outdoor living accessories.

Codsall Paving and Stone – Sand, gravel, slabs, reclaimed bricks, hardcore, cement, block paving, fencing, trellis and turf.

Stylish range of indoor Oak Furniture now in stock.

Codsall Garden Buildings - Sheds, garages, greenhouses and summerhouses.

Even pets are catered for with all types of food for dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, guinea pigs and birds.

GJ Lewis and Sons - Specialists in block paving, landscaping, fencing and patios.

Visit the independent, family run garden centre in Codsall. Open 7 days a week. ✿ Plants and Shrubs ✿ Garden Ornaments ✿ Water Features ✿ Outdoor Furniture ✿ Pet Products and Do It Yourself Dog Wash

✿ Oak Furniture ✿ Cards and Books ✿ Gifts and Homeware ✿ Kids Toys ✿ Restaurant ✿ Aquatics ✿ Outdoor Clothing

✿ Lawnmower Sales and Servicing ✿ Camping Equipment ✿ Sheds and Garden Buildings ✿ Landscaping and Building Supplies

t: 01902 842461 f: 01902 846666 e: enquiries@codsallandwergs.co.uk Codsall & Wergs Garden Centre Ltd., Wergs Hall Road, Codsall, Wolverhampton, WV8 2HJ Codsall & Wergs Garden Centre Ltd @Codsall_Wergs

83

Your Pets & Garden

Spring Gardening Tips Assuming that the weather for March and April is reasonably on track then we can get out into the garden and begin to weed and clean borders, after which a general purpose fertilizer can be applied before adding a mulch of compost or well-rotted manure. If you have any lime hating (ericaceous) plants, such plants as Camellias, Rhododendrons and Azalea, make sure you use an ericaceous fertilizer as they require extra trace elements.

round and are ideal in a cold greenhouse at this time of year – Sage, thyme, parsley, rosemary are easily grown this way. If you want to grow mint in a pot, choose a large container and plant by itself as it can be very rampant.

Watch out for late frosts if you’ve got potatoes in tubs with plenty of leaf growth – always protect at night. Sow your first and second early potatoes followed by maincrops, again watching out for late frosts once the foliage appears.

Empty gaps in borders can be planted up now so long as there’s no frost in the ground.

There are many new varieties of herbaceous that have become available over the last few years and they are well worth planting at this time of year – many will flower in their first year. For a hot sunny border that is likely to be dry or well drained try Verbascum, Foxglove Silver Fox, Red Hot Pokers, Poppies, Dianthus and Cistus. If a plant has silver or grey foliage it will usually withstand droughts. For shady spots try Viburnums, Skimmias, Astilbes or Hostas on moist soils and for shady dry borders use Cotoneaster, Mahonia and Dicentra (Bleeding Hearts).

Carrots, celery, beetroot, leeks, onions, broad beans and lettuce can all be sown or planted outside during April. Sow at regular intervals to give a steady supply of vegetables.

Many people have cool greenhouses at this time of year and are eager to start growing.

So long as you can provide some night heat if temperatures dip below 8 – 10 deg C then you can start growing some of the hardier plants. Dahlias can be started off in pots inside then planted out once the danger of frost has receded. Begonia corms should be pressed gently into potting compost, curved side down – never completely covered and put on a sunny windowsill or into a greenhouse with night heat.

With so much damp weather over the last few months there’s going to be plenty of moss in lawns. We strongly recommend MO Bacter which is a slow release organic fertiliser for lawns. This feeds the lawn over a 12 week period and contains bacteria which are naturally found in the soil and which when added to fertiliser will consume material like thatch and moss, making it unnecessary to rake or scarify after treatment.

Aerate the lawn with a fork or spikes on shoes to improve drainage. If you’ve got weeds as well, use one of the combined feed, weed and moss killers. Any bare patches can then be reseeded.

Plug plants are now appearing in garden centres, pot them up into larger pots and keep them warm and in a sunny position.

Don’t be tempted to leave them outside at the moment – the end of May is plenty soon enough. Although many can be grown at low temperatures once it dips below 5 deg C they need some heat, and should be kept reasonably dry. A cooler grown plant makes a sturdier, stockier plant.

Happy Gardening.

Many herbs can be grown in pots all year

84

Your Pets & Garden

Spring is in the air... so Lets Get Growing!

We’ve got everything you need to make your garden beautiful!

•

New season shrubs, alpines and herbaceous plants

•

Plug plants

•

Bedding plants

•

Tomato plants

•

Vegetable plants

•

Mothers day arrangements

LEALANS COMPOST

3 bags for £12.69 80 Litre bag

01902 700 209 E: enquiries@lealansgardencentre.co.uk W: www.lealansgardencentre.co.uk Bridgnorth Rd, Shipley, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7EZ

85

Your Pets & Garden

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Your Pets & Garden

Garden Design Inspiration For 2016 If you are thinking of getting your garden professionally designed this spring, what should you be looking out for when choosing a landscape company? We ask Steve Tonks, General Manager at the award-winning Boningale Garden Creations for his advice and tips.

to previous customers and check to see if it is a member of the Association of Professional Landscapers – this will give you added assurance of quality and guarantee of service.

Will they help us choose the best hard landscaping materials?

Materials are one of the most important components in the design (and budget) and with so many options, from slate, block paving and brick to concrete and gravel – not forgetting natural materials like hedging and trees - to choose from, it may feel overwhelming. A good company will advise on the pros and cons of each type of material taking into account the design brief, surrounding landscape as well as your home’s architectural style.

What makes a good garden designer?

A good garden designer has to be in tune with the customer – and gaining trust is absolutely vital. This means spending hours with you to ascertain exactly how you want to use the garden and what it is you want to achieve. At this initial stage, they will go through existing features, talk about preferred styles, and, crucially, budget.

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

What should people look for if they want to use a garden design company?

Before signing on the dotted line, ask to speak

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87

@boningalegarden

<RXU Your3HWV *DUGHQV Pets & Garden

Has Your Dog Been Microchipped?

Clent Vet Group

wins award

Local veterinary clinic due Clentto Hills Changes in Legislation comeVet intoGroup force has achieved accreditation as a Cat Friendly in April 2016.

Clinic (CFC). The CFC programme has been developed International Society of On 6th April by 2016,the a change in legislation comes Feline Medicine, the veterinary division of the into effect which requires all dog owners to leading feline International Cat Care, have their dogscharity microchipped. and accreditation has been made available in partnership with Purina. It aims to promote Microchippng is a simple process which involves well-being and high standards of care for a chip, about the size of a grain of rice, being all cats visiting or being hospitalised in a inserted beneath the skin, usually between the veterinary clinic. shoulder blades, with a sterile needle. For the dog it is similar sensation to receiving Under thea very programme, a clinic has to provea routine vaccination. rigorous adherence to a set of criteria

procedure to be compliant with the law but equally as important to ensure the best possible chance of reunion should their dog go missing.

Owners who fail to comply with the legislation â&#x20AC;&#x153;We to of make couldwanted face fines up tosure ÂŁ500.that a trip to see our vets was as stress-free an experience as possible for our cat patients and their owners.

Cats can get very anxious when taken out of their usual environment, and this can make it owners reluctant to seek veterinary attention when their cat needs it. By undertaking Cat Friendly Clinic accreditation, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve committed to delivering high standards of cat care, with compassion and expertise.â&#x20AC;?

which includes provision of facilities and The chip holds aofunique code. Once demonstration staff activities andimplanted, attitudes the chip registered on a in database and as in the aimed at isreducing stress cats, both inevent of and the dog going missing, it is a includes relatively patients out-patients.

The criteria easy process for he she to scanned at a having separate dogor and catbewaiting areas, Veterinary surgery, the owner to be determined, feline-friendly hospitalisation cages, and and dog & equipment owner be reunited. veterinary speciďŹ cally for treating cats. Most importantly, staff are trained in approaching and Veterinary handling cats sensitively and At Clent Hills Group we have respectfully, in times maintaining high standards experienced and many over the relief and joy of veterinary care, including continuing to of such reunions following a period of distress update their knowledge of feline medicine and worry. as new treatments and information become available.

Many responsible dog owners already have their beloved pets chipped. Those that currently Becky Delli-Bovi, Catundergo Advocate, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t, have just a the few clinicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weeks to the was proud to receive Gold accreditation,

The International Society of Feline Medicine Government more than launched thedata Cat indicates Friendly that Clinic initiative 100.000years dogs ago, are losttoorencourage dumped annually and three veterinary then can become a burden to Local practices everywhere to make bestAuthorities efforts to and animal improve thecharities. welfare of cats in their care. The programme advises practices on how to make their as welcomingthen to why cats not as If yourenvironment dog is not microchipped possible, asinwell as providing support in staff book them today for this simple procedure training, techniques andThe cat-speciďŹ at Clent handling Hills Veterinary Group? charge cis client care. minimal, and has been reduced still further to just ÂŁ10.00, to support dog owners who are not Cat owners We canhave ďŹ nd out moreavailable about yet compliant. appointments International Cat Care and the Cat Friendly daily, you can book by calling or using our online Clinic initiative www.catfriendlyclinic.org. booking facility.atIf your dog is not yet compliant Clent Hills Vet Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website can be found we look forward to hearing from you. at www.clenthillsvetgroup.co.uk

Dedicated to excellence in animal care

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Stourbridge & District Branch Registered Charity No. 205759

Special Appeal For Quiet Loving Homes!

We are reaching a crisis point as our foster homes are full and until we can rehome some of the cats in our care we cannot help the many more already on our waiting list. This is particularly worrying with us heading into kitten season, as we are normally inundated with calls to take in pregnant mums and kittens and at the moment we have no space.

We have several cats in our care (all colours and ages) who need to find nice quiet homes with no young children or other pets.

Ideally you will be experienced and understanding cat people who are prepared to let the cat adapt to their new surroundings in their own time...but we do have some more confident and fussy cats that would be suited to new cat people given the right attitude and a quiet home environment :-) We really do need to find the right type of homes for these lovely and very deserving cats!

Poor Jordon and Harley have been in our care for over 18 months â&#x20AC;&#x201C; could you offer them the loving home they so clearly deserve?

DEXTER

DINK

GEORGIA

HENRY

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JAKE

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TED

More details on all our cats, kittens & rabbits are

available on our website: rspca-stourbridgeanddistrict.org.uk

89

Your)XQHUDOV Funerals <RXU

Peace

of mind from a company who cares

J.T. Brookes & Co. is part of the N.E. Downing (Blackheath) Ltd. The family business has been conducting funerals for over 100 years and is now run on a daily basis by brother and sister, William and Lucy Downing, supported by their father Stephen.

Backed by many long standing and loyal staff, the company continues to pride itsself on serving the local community by offering a caring and personal service, ensuring the highest of standards are maintained. This is overseen by their membership of the trading body, SAIF (National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors).

J.T. Brookes & Co. Hagley was opened in April 2006. In 2015 it moved to bigger premises,

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Your Finance & Legal

If it sounds to good to be true One of the many ways we work with our clients is to ensure they don’t inadvertently lose money through a lack of planning or awareness. I recently spoke to a fellow advisor who told me about a client of theirs who had fallen prey to a sophisticated scam based around a trading platform called Career Journal UK. The scam is aimed at single mothers who want to earn money at home.

Anita Gatehouse Your Lifestyle’s Financial Expert

about an investment opportunity, chances are it’s a high risk investment or a scam. Be careful!

The safest thing to do is to hang up.

Another strategy is to offer cold callers the chance to, “. . call my financial planner who would be happy to discuss this great opportunity!”

There are of course many other scams doing the rounds; investment-based schemes such as overseas property developments with guaranteed returns; get rich quick Ponzi schemes and Land Banking Schemes. Not to mention the early pension release schemes for those under age 55.

2. Check the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) warning list - If you have been unexpectedly contacted about an investment opportunity, you can use the FCA Warning List to check the investment and the firm that’s offered it to you.

Generally speaking, if the firm is unauthorised or the product unregulated, then the usual protections will not apply. For example, if you buy an unregulated investment product from a firm that is not authorised by the FCA, you will not have access to the Financial Ombudsman Service or Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) if things go wrong.

Let’s not also forget the myriad of banking and email scams that we all receive almost on a daily basis. I had one this morning from the ‘bonus department’ offering me a 200% return on my £300 stake. If only!

“I can see a scam a mile off”- Yes, of course, we all think, or would like to think this but it might not be you and I who are at risk. It could however be our ageing parents, siblings or children who have just started University. Three million UK adults fall victim to mass marketing scams every year- losing on average £850.

3. Contact cre8 wealth management for impartial advice - If you have been approached about an investment opportunity that you are interested in pursuing, contact us on 01562 745730. We will happily take a look at the literature you have been sent and let you know if we smell a rat.

Three steps to stop the scammers - These scammers are very sophisticated and appear to be very professional and believable. The truth is they are crooks and need to be stopped. So what can you do? Here are three simple steps:

As ever, if we can help you or someone you know, find or refine the life you or they want to live, please feel free to get in touch. Our Second Opinion Service, provided at our cost, is a risk free way of seeing exactly how we can help.

1. Reject cold calls - If you’ve been cold-called

91

Your Finance & Legal

Tax - Plan now for the changes ahead After the stress of the 31 January Self Assessment Tax Return deadline you may be tempted to forget about your tax affairs, remuneration, profit extraction and accounts for another year. You could be forgiven for not wanting to see your accountant for the next few months.

rate taxpayers however dividend receipts in excess of this amount will be taxed at 7 ½ % this compares to the current rate of zero.

The new rate for higher rate taxpayers is 32 ½%, compared to the current effective rate of 25%; additional rate taxpayers will incur a charge of 38.1% as compared to the current effective rate of 30.6%.

In simple terms, with the right business structure and no other income, under the present regime a couple could, effectively, take £39,206 of net income each from their owner managed business without paying income tax. This is achieved by each of them utilising their basic rate tax band and making use of their personal allowance. If they use the same “planning” in 2016/17 it may cost them £2,025 of income tax each!

This may however be to your detriment as there are some important changes in the world of tax which you may need to plan for and next January may be much too late. Tax planning is not just to give your accountant something to fill their time with after the January Self Assessment deadline, it can save you tax.

Another important change for the owner managed business relates to the employment allowance. This is available to reduce an employer’s class 1 NI contribution.

From 6 April 2016 this allowance will increase from its current level of £2,000 per annum to £3,000. It has been announced however that, also from 6 April 2016, one person companies will not be eligible to claim this allowance.

This will affect the tax efficient level of salary available to directors.

For most owner managed business’, for some time, a mix of salary and dividends making use of the basic rate tax band has been the most effective way of extracting profits. As from 6 April 2016 the taxation of dividends will be reformed whereby the 10% dividend tax credit will be “replaced” by a £5,000 dividend tax allowance. If your dividend income is £5,000 or less you are a winner.

This article outlines a couple of the many changes coming into effect. Tax does not stay the same, so neither should your tax planning.

Individuals will not pay income tax on dividend receipts of £5,000 or less. For basic

The Accountancy Firm 01902 906 906 info@theaccountancyfirm.co.uk The Coach House, Church Road, Oxley, Wolverhampton, WV10 6AB

92

Your Finance & Legal

Dudley Building Society Scraps Upper Age Limit Dudley Building Society recently received national press attention as they scrapped upper age limits across their whole product range.

and mortgage finance is needed to allow this shortfall to be overcome. For others, lifestyle factors may come into play, and they may simply not wish to repay debt earlier in life as this allows them to do other things with the money (such as say having a holiday home).

Over the last decade there has been an increasing shift towards a flexible approach to retirement ages (especially following the removal of the statutory retirement age), and it is believed that this shift will continue to gather pace. Many now work beyond 65 (either through necessity or through choice), and are therefore as capable of servicing a mortgage beyond that age as they were before. A large proportion of these individuals will also see the benefits of paying in to their investments and pensions for a longer period of time.

Whilst borrowing into later life will be a necessity for some, the extensive experience of the Black Country lender demonstrates that for many, borrowing into later life is an active choice as this allows them to run their lives in a way which most suits their needs and circumstances.

Borrowing in later life does not have to be seen as something which only happens as a result of something having gone wrong – it can be a positive choice.

Perhaps more significantly, there are also a number of demographic and societal changes taking place which increasingly mean that people need mortgages into later life. First Time Buyers are buying at a later age for a variety of reasons (e.g. the reduction in availability of higher LTV mortgages following the Credit Crunch resulting in a need to save much larger deposits than was previously the case; the impact of tuition fees; the effect on affordability arising from the Mortgage Market Review changes of 2014; ‘generation rent’ having to deal with juggling finances to pay rent as well as save a deposit). At the same time, mortgage terms are also increasing due to the difficulties for many to deal with increased affordability requirements coupled with house price growth which has outstripped wage inflation. If mortgages start later and then run for longer, it is clear that more people will need mortgages which extend into later life.

For too long, older borrowers have struggled with mortgage accessibility, and those options which did exist generally treated these borrowers as second class citizens by forcing them to borrow from a limited range. Dudley Building Society promotes all borrowers to be equally worthy of consideration, and by making their entire range available; boldly demonstrates they do not discriminate by age.

Cases from older borrowers although occasionally offering additional complexity, offer no more risk than younger ones, providing that underwriting is carried out by professional human underwriters. However sophisticated credit scoring becomes, when dealing with more complex cases, there really is no substitute for human consideration. The Society has started 2016 with enthusiasm along with a strong proposition for those wishing to have a mortgage in to later life.

There are a wide range of other reasons for the need for later life mortgages. For some, divorce will result in a need to ‘start again’ and mortgage finance will be required. For interest only borrowers, there may be a shortfall to accommodate from their repayment strategy,

93

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Your Time of Year

Mothering Sunday Your Time

of Year

an ancient celebration

The origin of Mother’s Day go back to the ancient Greek and Romans.

Historically, churchgoers worshipped on Sundays at their nearest parish, known as their ‘daughter’ church. Centuries ago it was deemed important for people to return to their home or ‘mother’ church once a year.

The Greeks held an annual spring festival and used the occasion to honour Rhea, wife of Cronus and the mother of many deities of Greek mythology.

The return to the ‘mother’ church became an occasion for family reunions. Its a popular belief that this return is what led to the tradition of Mothering Sunday.

Ancient Romans, too, celebrated a spring festival, called Hilaria dedicated to Cybele, a mother goddess. The celebration lasted for three days and included parades and games.

The custom of celebrating Mothering Sunday died out almost completely by the 19th century.

However, was celebrated again after World War II, when American servicemen brought the custom and commercial enterprises used it as an occasion for sales.

Mothering Sunday is the fourth Sunday of Lent and this year falls on 6th March. Its often referred to as Mothers’ Day, but that is in fact, a completely different American festival celebrated at a different time of year.

Today this special day, commercial or not, is a chance to reflect and give thanks to our mothers and is a particularly poignant time to remember loved ones no longer with us.

Traditionally, it was a day when employees, who were staying away from home, such as domestic servants, were given a day off and encouraged to visit their mother and family.

96

Your Time of Year

Easter a spring holiday with

religious origins

Other accounts trace Easter to the Latin term hebdomada alba, or white week. In reference to the white clothing worn by people who were baptized during that time. Through a translation error, the term later appeared as esostarum in Old High German, which eventually became Easter in English.

In Spanish, Easter is known as Pascua; in French, Paques. These words are derived from the Greek and Latin Pascha or Pasch, for Passover, which is the celebration to commemorate the liberation of Jews from the slavery of the Egyptians in ancient times.

As with most religious and historic festivals Easter has now become a commercial venture.

Did you know, over 90 million chocolate Easter bunnies are made each year.?

The exact origins of day are unknown. Pagan folklore claims the word Easter is derived Eastre (or Eostre), the Anglo Saxon goddess of spring. A festival called Eastre was held during the spring Equinox to honour her. Eastreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s earth symbol was a hare, also known as symbol of fertility and perhaps the origins of the Easter bunny.

The spring Equinox is a time where the earth renews itself after the winter. The egg is widely used as a symbol of new life and re-birth and so became a symbol of Easter.

This year Easter Sunday falls on Sunday 27th March. Most of us will enjoy a 4 day holiday from Good Friday 25th March to Easter bank holiday Monday 28th March - and most of us will enjoy the time with family and friends eating far too much chocolate!

In the Christian faith Easter has come to mean the celebration of the resurrection of Christ from the tomb, three days after his crucifixion. It is the oldest and most significant holiday in the church year. Easter Sunday comes after Lent, a 40 day period of fasting.

97

Your Motoring

Experience the Vignale Lifestyle

Driving should be an experience, not a chore, with the enjoyment of a beautifully crafted vehicle taking prominence over the mundane, day-to-day motoring maintenance.

the luxury of cutting edge developments to the driving seat. Innovations include Active Noise Cancellation with laminated glass to provide a whisper-quiet journey, Ford SYNC 2 with voice control and touchscreen to allow hands-free infotainment and Adaptive Lighting and Ford Dynamic LED headlights, which adjust automatically to optimize the view of changing driving conditions.

This ideal driving vision is embodies by the new Ford Mondeo Vignale, with every element refined to maximise precious time whilst indulging in precise attention to detail and exclusive design.

The Vignale experience is about much more than just the car, however. Vignale owners receive exclusive access to a world of timesaving services, including complimentary car washes, Premium Valet with collection and delivery and a collection and delivery service for maintenance. Vignale OneCall gives instant, 24/7 access to a specialist Vignale support team member, who can organise roadside assistance, a FordStore visit, service bookings and resolve any queries. All services are tailored to the customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s schedule and preferences, with a dedicated Vignale Relationship Manager as your one contact at Evans Halshaw FordStore Wolverhampton.

From the moment you step into the Vignale Lounge at Evans Halshaw FordStore Wolverhampton, the custom-created area provides a modern, relaxing environment.

Table-top touchscreens enable your new car to be created at your fingertips, whilst a dedicated Vignale Relationship Manager helps to tailor materials, colours and technologies over a freshly-served Nespresso before revealing the finished concept on a 3D video wall.

Inspired by the intricate design passion and precise manufacturing knowledge of 1950s Italian designer Alfredo Vignale, the Mondeo Vignale focuses on quality and premium materials. From the hand-stitched leather on custom designed seats to the signature hexagonal grill, the Mondeo Vignale stands out as a creation of pure style.

To find out more about the Ford Vignale Mondeo, visit the dealership at 57-73 Birmingham Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV2 3LS or call 01902 875 400.

Alternatively, visit:

Beneath perfectly sculptured features lies a wealth of technological prowess, adding

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98

Your Motoring

Meet the new expression of Ford The All New Mondeo Vignale As standard this car comes with • Full Leather Interior • Memory Seat System • Park Assist Camera • Lane Keeping Aid with Traffic Aid Recognition

Get all of this for only

£256 per month and just 0.9% APR REPRESENTATIVE EXAMPLE: 36 Monthly Payments of Customer Deposit Deposit Allowance Term of Agreement On The Road Cash Price Total Amount of Credit

£255.61 £8,000.00 £700.00 37 months £29,320.00 £20,620.00

Credit Arrangement Fee † Option to Purchase Fee †† GMFV Option to Purchase Payment Total Amount Payable Rate of Interest (Fixed) Representative 0.9% APR

£10.00 £10.00 £11,816.00 £29,748.16 0.66%

Contact a Vignale specialist at Evans Halshaw Ford Wolverhampton today

FordStore EVANS HALSHAW evanshalshaw.com

Wolverhampton 57-73 Birmingham Road Wolverhampton WV2 3LS 01902 875400

Official Fuel Consumption figures in mpg (1/100km) for the Ford Mondeo Vignale 2.0TDCi 180PS: Urban 55.4 (5.1), ExtraUrban 68.9 (4.1), Combined 62.8 (4.5) official CO2 emissions 117g/km All information is correct at time of print and is subject to change without notice. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer ends 31/03/2016. Image shown for illustration purposes only. Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) agreement for Ford Mondeo Vignale 4dr Saloon 2.0TDCi 180PS Manual registered from 01/01/2016. Contract mileage of 6,000 per annum and an excess mileage charge of 6.0p (per mile) excluding VAT. Further charges may apply subject to vehicle condition and mileage if you return the vehicle at the end of the agreement. †Payable with first monthly payment. ††Payable with Option to Purchase Payment. Vehicles available whilst stock lasts.

Finance is subject to status. Credit provided by Ford Credit/FCE Eagle Way, Brentwood, Essex CM13 3AR. Deposit Allowance only available when financed with Ford Credit. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Charges apply, please ask for details. All figures include VAT unless otherwise stated. For full details on this offer, please visit Evans Halshaw Ford Wolverhampton. Retail customers only. Some far reaching exclusions may apply. Stripestar Limited, Loxley House, 2 Oakwood Court, Little Oak Drive, Annesley, Nottingham, NG15 0DR. Company Number 3786959. Stripestar Ltd is a credit broker / intermediary that can introduce you to a limited number of lenders to provide funding for your vehicle. They may incentivise us for introducing you to them.

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