Braintree issue 14 2016 web

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Beware the Holiday Scammers - Garden View - Word Search - Crufts Buying Overseas! - Who are you kissing? - A happier, healthy you! Crossword - Brafternoon - Banana & Walnut Loaf

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What’s inside

p4

p7

p11

p13

p4

Beware the Holiday Scammers

p15

Who are you kissing?

p7

Garden View

p17

A happier, healthy you!

p9

Word Search

p21

Crossword

p11

Crufts

p25

Brafternoon

p13

Buying Overseas!

p29

Banana & Walnut Loaf

p29

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Disclaimer © While every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of artwork. All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that the description of the goods and services are fair and accurate. Local Network Magazine does not officially endorse and advertising material included in this publication. No part of this publication maybe reproduced, stored in any retrievable system or transmitted in any form-electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise – without the consent of the publisher. Publisher: Local Network Magazine. 8 The Maltings, Thaxted, Essex. CM6 2NB

p2 | Local Network Magazine Issue 14 2016


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I

n the travel industry this time of year is known as ‘the peaks’ for obvious reasons. It’s the time of year when a lot of people are thinking about and booking their summer holidays. No sooner have we all finished our Christmas lunch, we see adverts by the holiday companies all ending “ATOL Protected” so why is it so important? ATOL (Air Tour Organisers License) and ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents) are badges of trust sitting behind which are government rules and regulations to protect you and your money. ATOL mainly protects against the financial failure of airlines and ABTA protects should something happen to the travel agent or tour operator you booked with. Perhaps the biggest risk to the consumer these days are companies purporting to have ATOL licenses or being members of ABTA but in fact are not and sometimes don’t exist at all. It is so easy to create a website and copy and paste a couple of logos and look entirely legitimate allowing fraudsters to advertise accommodation and flights that do not exist, promising bookings that were never made. Recent examples include a family who handed over £1,500 for a rented cottage in Cornwall at New Year only to discover when they arrived that it was already occupied and fraudsters had hacked into the owner’s website. Another victim was stopped from catching a return flight and left stranded in the US after paying £1,200 to a bogus travel agent. Cases like these run into the thousands each year; holiday fraud is particularly distressing as the loss to the victim is not just financial but it can also have a high emotional impact. So how do you avoid being taken for an expensive ride? Here are some key warning signs:

Beware By Ian Gilmour

the Holiday Scammers

u If an advert refers to membership of a trade body or consumer protection scheme such as ABTA, make sure the membership is genuine. u If a price looks too good to be true, it probably is. Take time to do some research into prices to get a good idea of what ballpark you’re looking at. u If the only payment option is a bank transfer or cash. Not only is this an indication that no bank is prepared to provide credit card facilities, but if you are dealing with a scammer it will be virtually impossible to get your money back. u Low resolution, ‘fuzzy’ logos for trade associations and credit card companies. u Be wary of firms who offer a discount if you pay the whole bill upfront, it doesn’t work like that and reputable companies will usually take a deposit with the balance payable two or three months before the trip.

So, if you’re booking online use a company that you know or at least research them properly on the ABTA website, check the ATOL license and if you use a travel agent do the same. Remember if you see a deal you can always ask your travel agent to check it out for you or match it, a good one always will. Happy Holidays! Ian Gilmour Travel Director T: 01279 210658 E: ian@oneweekortwo.com W: www.oneweekortwo.com

p4 | Local Network Magazine Issue 14 2016


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GardenView

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F

ebruary is usually far colder than we are experiencing at the moment and we are already seeing early signs of spring with bulbs appearing and wildlife waking up as temperatures increase. February is a great month for planting as the soil is warming up, encouraging new roots to grow and helping plants become established so don’t be fooled into thinking that that means there’s not an awful lot to be done in the garden! We have come up with a handy little checklist for you to make sure that your garden is in tip top condition and will grow beautifully over the spring and summer months for everyone to enjoy.

Lawns: u Buy yourself a big sign that says ‘Keep off the grass!’ If your lawn is still wet it will become easily damaged by treading on it. If later on in the month it has dried out, you can give it a gentle trim on a high blade setting. However, if you are thinking re-turfing or laying grass seed, then now is a perfect time to do this. Wildlife: u It’s another cold and sparse month for wildlife, especially for the birds that may visit your garden. If you are a cat-free house, and enjoy watching your feathery friends, please put out fresh water and good quality bird food or fat/suet balls to help keep them going. Happy gardening!

Trees, shrubs and climbers: u Plant your barerooted shrubs and trees and container-grown climbers, but remember to plant any climbers about 10” away from any walls u Prune established shrubs and climbers u Move any established deciduous trees and shrubs provided the ground is not frozen or waterlogged u Remember to always use stakes and rabbit guards when you have replanted as this prevents damage to the root ball or the bark u Plant your roses in new areas of the garden as if you plant in an area that you have previously used you could be introduced to replant disease or sick soil syndrome u Plant fragrant winter flowering shrubs such as Daphne, Viburnum x bodnantense, Witch Hazel or Wintersweet

General maintenance should include: u Check tree ties and stakes – tighten or replace as necessary u Tie up or remove any damaged branches from conifers that may have been affected by bad weather or strong winds u Ensure newly planted trees and shrubs have not been disturbed by any wildlife or strong winds u Remove weeds from tree bases, flower beds and patio areas u Check or introduce protective coverings if we are due any severe frosts

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Crufts By Susan Brookes - Morris

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rufts is the world’s largest dog show held at the NEC Birmingham, 10-13 March. The first of the ‘Crufts’ Dog events took place in 1891 at the Royal Agricultural Hall in Islington. It was the brainchild of Charles Cruft, hence the name. After college, Charles worked for the well-known dog food company called Spratts; initially as an office boy and later as a travelling salesman across Europe. In 1878, he was asked by French dog-breeders to promote the canine section of the Paris Exhibition. Back in England, he managed the Allied Terrier Club Show at the Royal Aquarium, Westminster in 1886 and launched Crufts five years later. When Charles died in 1938, his wife Emma took over the running of the Show. She handed the mantle to the Kennel Club in 1948. The first event had 2,437 entries representing 36 breeds. This year’s show will see over 22,000 dogs competing from around 43 countries. The event is truly international since quarantine laws were lifted in the year 2000. The ultimate accolade, Best in Show has been contested for 87 years, and won by 43 different breeds. The most frequent champion breed with seven wins is the Cocker Spaniel, followed by the Irish Setter and Welsh Terrier which have each taken four titles. The first ever winner was a Greyhound and

The first event had 2,437 entries representing 36 breeds. This year’s show will see over 22,000 dogs competing from around 43 countries.

the 2015 winner was a five-year-old Russian Scottish Terrier called Knopa. Winners receive a replica silver trophy and a small cash prize, but it is the prestige and future stud-money that are the real attraction. In addition to the Best in Show and Best in Breed awards, there are now many other competitions including Scruffs - for crossbreeds. Visitors can also enjoy the spectacle of activities such as fast-paced flyball; skilful agility and heelwork to music. In many of the competitions there are junior as well as adult classes. Attendees also look forward to seeing famous names such as celebrity vets and TV personalities known for their love of dogs. There is a wealth of shopping opportunities with over 400 exhibition stands and for those thinking of purchasing a dog, the Discover Dogs section features examples, advice and information from owners of around 200 breeds. Over the last decade, £138,000 has been raised from dog exhibitors for the Kennel Club’s charitable trust which distributes money to dog rehoming, assistance dog charities and funds research into the understanding and prevention of dog diseases. Huge efforts are now made to ensure all dogs in the Show are healthy following previous concerns about welfare. Crufts is a great day out, and for dog-lovers it’s not to be missed!

Local Network Magazine Issue 14 2016 | p11


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Buying Overseas! By Nick Hyde

T

he start of the New Year also means the start of the planning process for many considering buying a property abroad. Whether you are still in the research stages, or ready to make an offer, it is important you plan! Buying property is not a process to be rushed. You need time to research the market as a whole and also spend time researching the companies in the market place - using the right professionals will save you time, money and stress. Investing time and being prepared to spend money on good service providers at the beginning of the process will save you a lot of hassle later and potentially avoid expensive mistakes.

Here are some top tips! Use an Independent lawyer. No matter what anybody tells you, no matter how easy it all seems and no matter how lovely the agent seems, always use an independent lawyer to represent you throughout the purchase of your property overseas. An ‘independent’ lawyer represents you and only you; it is the lawyer’s job to protect you and inform you.

Know your numbers Make sure you know your budget before you start looking at properties - this should include at least a provisional mortgage offer if you’re borrowing money. If borrowing money, your repayments will stretch over several years, years in which lending criteria and borrowing costs may change. Discuss the long term repayment with a financial specialist before proceeding. You will also need to factor in around 11% of the purchase price in additional legal and admin costs such as land registry and taxes.

already signed contracts to buy, this could cause you a problem. Speak to a currency specialist discuss the option of securing your rate of exchange early. The rate fluctuations will also affect the costs of mortgages (if you raise the mortgage overseas and earn your income at home). Again, speak to a currency exchange specialist to highlight the risks and to take appropriate action.

Use professional agents and developers There are few, if any, guarantees when buying property, at home or overseas. Using an independent lawyer significantly reduces the risks you take on an overseas property purchase and employing a professional agent or buying from a professional developer will also help you. Ask lots of questions. Initially, focus questions on the company itself, not the properties for sale. Dig around for details on the founders of the company and the track record of the company. Ask for client testimonials and make sure you find out in detail exactly what service they offer. Don’t just take their word for it - ask for details on their service in writing, preferably in the form of some type of ‘Terms of Business’.

Remember the risk to reward ratio If you are buying property overseas as an investment (as many people have done in recent years), you need to bear in mind that big returns may come with significant risks. Be careful to assess the possible downsides to an investment property as well as the enticing investment numbers that could be achieved if all goes to plan.

Beware exchange rate movements The rates do not need to move substantially to affect the value of your purchase. When you start looking, £100,000 may buy you a certain property - a 10% drop in the value of the £ against the Euro, for example, may then put that property out of your budget. If you’ve

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Local Network Magazine Issue 14 2016 | p13


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Who are you

kissing? By Brenda

I

I remember a time when the only people who air kissed each cheek where the flamboyant, the theatrical. Those from other shores i.e. France and Spain have always kissed cheeks in greetings. The British have always been considered fairly reserved and our staple greeting diet was a good firm handshake; you could easily get a bus between the giver and the receiver of the greeting with almost zero ‘lean-in’, we left that to the Americans. Air kisses were sometimes used by the ladies of the upper classes who wanted to show a smidge of affection but it was strictly air to the side of the face that was kissed, it would have been disastrous if make-up was disturbed. Times have changed but no-one is quite sure to what extent and with each new generation the social barriers are less and less and therefore social etiquette is a bit of a mystery, at least to me. Do we kiss cheeks, kiss air, shake hands, politely nod...? It’s a personal minefield which has led to some disastrous moments. I recall a close relative bringing her new boyfriend to a family gathering. When they arrived I saw him hold out his hand and so took this as a definite indication we would shake hands. As he leant towards me his lips puckered and I realised it was more a kissing cheek motion, so in my confusion we ended up in what can only be described as a ‘kiss-wrestle’. Me, with my hand grasping his at about waist level and our lips meeting in a not so appropriate kiss, this movement almost ended up with both of us losing our balance and could have resulted with us being a tangled heap on the living room rug if it were not for the fact that there were so many people crammed into the small room we were kept upright. There followed

Burling

over-exaggerated apologies and a very red face on my part. Strangely enough, I never saw him again after that Christmas. Another episode which, in my opinion, was equally embarrassing was a chance meeting in a pub of a couple who were at one point regular visitors at our home. I was confident in my cheek kissing decision although highly conscious of the fact I’d eaten copious amounts of a garlic laden dinner the night before, so much so that I could still taste the garlic through the toothpaste that morning. I knew however I was capable of holding my breath sufficiently to accommodate the single cheek kiss greeting we always shared. What threw me was the unexpected second cheek kiss, I had exhaled by that point and judging by my friend’s facial expression she had been subjected to a garlic laden blast. To compound this, in performing a ‘twocheek’ kiss I misjudged timing and we ended in a sort of nose crush. Perfect. I’m now never sure which social greeting is appropriate unless I’m in a work situation where there is still the staple diet of handshakes and nothing more. I did hear of someone inadvertently finishing a job interview with a cheek kiss, wonder if she got the job? It is said, in France the greetings have escalated to a possible four cheek kiss, this would have me in a cold sweat, no holiday in the Dordogne for us in the foreseeable future then, though as it is a nation of garlic lovers that would eliminate one element of embarrassment. I am considering inventing a ‘paddle’ system whereby I could carry an array of social greetings on paddles and when the need arose I would hold one aloft, indicating exactly which greeting would be used. Patent pending, me thinks.

Local Network Magazine Issue 14 2016 | p15


Here at JFP Fitness, we offer one to one personal training, small and large group exercise classes, nutrition plans and rehabilitation from injuries and a truly personal service that is lacking in ‘high street’ gyms. Catering for every level of fitness and age group, we currently have clients from 6-65 years old and would love to extend that range. Our private, fully equipped and friendly gym is based in Great Notley, Braintree and we can also travel within a 20 mile radius to help you train in small groups or one to one.

Email: jfpfitness@gmail.com or call Justin on: 07805 394 175 Please see our website www.jfpfitness.co.uk or our Facebook page

www.facebook.com/jfpfitness for exercise tips, advice and customer references. p16 | Local Network Magazine Issue 14 2016


a happier, healthy you! By Justin Palmer

I have been a personal trainer for a few years now and I am even more of a fan of exercise than I was when I first started! When you are part of people’s journey to fitness it can be a very personal experience for both trainer and customer and is also one of the most rewarding jobs out there. Why? Because you see people become better versions of themselves, see their confidence soar, their abilities in every aspect of their life improve and their attitude to their life change totally. Now I can hear people already balking at the phrase “become a better version of themselves” but please let me explain myself, this has absolutely nothing to do with appearance.

Exercise raises the heart rate, raises blood pressure temporarily, lowers cholesterol, stimulates the immune system, helps avoid osteoporosis, lowers diabetes risks and can also help with weight loss. The last factor is what people tend to concentrate on but they overlook the previous ones which are arguably more important. A better version of you is a happier, healthier version of you, regardless of appearance, lowering the risk of diseases and ill health lessens your stress, making you happier! Also the above listed benefits are just primary benefits, secondarily we have mental health benefits; I have seen the benefits that exercise can give in combatting depression and other mental health issues such as borderline personality disorder and bipolar disorder. The World Health Organisation estimates, physical inactivity is the world’s fourth leading risk factor for death responsible for 6% of deaths globally, only behind high blood pressure (responsible for 13% of deaths globally), tobacco use (9%) and high blood glucose (6%), incidentally, obesity (5%), is the next on the list. As high blood pressure and obesity can be greatly reduced with exercise it is hard not to see a very compelling case for getting up off your sofa. So why isn’t everyone training at least 3 times a week and why does anyone get obese? Well modern convenience foods are mainly to blame as well as

hidden sugars in an awful lot of packaged foods but also, in my experience, people will talk themselves out of exercise because it can be hard work and it can make you a bit sweaty! People’s biggest excuse is that they don’t have the time. Now everybody is busy these days but I wouldn’t mind betting that most people reading this spend at least 20 minutes a day looking at Facebook, Twitter, YouTube or the good old telly. It is recommended that an average person does up to 150 minutes of low intensity exercise or 70 minutes of high intensity exercise a week so that is just over 20 minutes of low or 10 minutes of high intensity work a day. Everyone has that time free in a day to exercise and with modern technology it is not necessary to visit a gym. Lots of trainers (including myself) offer remote programs, there are plenty of DVD’s out there (of varying quality admittedly) and also streaming services. It’s not the best way to exercise at times but the above benefits far outweigh the dangers! Once you factor exercise into your day you will realise that you do indeed have the time, you just use the time you had on the sofa working out and hence improving yourself. Another excuse is that gyms are intimidating and can be ‘cliquey’. I totally understand this and unfortunately some of the bigger companies seem to deliberately make their gyms ‘playgrounds for the fit’. However there are some very good classes run across the country, there are private gyms, park run’s and walking clubs in our area which are welcoming and also add a nice social element to your exercise. I understand starting any exercise program is intimidating, but the hardest session is always your first and with the benefits available to you as well as the inner happiness of feeling healthy, it is surely worth getting up and getting out. I promise you won’t regret it!

For more information call on: 07805 394 175 or visit: www.jfpfitness.co.uk

Local Network Magazine Issue 14 2016 | p17


M

y name is Roselle Moss and I am a qualified and experienced professional makeup artist based in Braintree and I am passionate about making you look naturally beautiful.

I offer a range of services including bridal make-up, prom make-up and any other special occasion make-up you may require. I also offer 1-2-1 make-up lessons to help you achieve your perfect look, particularly if you are unsure about which colours and products to use on yourself or if you simply need to improve your technique or want to try a new look. I will work closely with you and listen to all of your requirements or concerns and together we will create the perfect look. I use various brands of make-up so I will always have the right tools for the job including vegan-certified makeup which is free of nasty chemicals if that is what you are looking for from your make-up products. With Valentine’s Day nearly here, why not book a session with me to ensure you look stunning for your date or even book a mother and daughter make-up lesson as a wonderful Mother’s Day gift

and enjoy some special time together on the 5th of March? My services start from just £25 if you would like a trial make-up session and then just £45 for your ‘on the day’ makeup experience. Remember to mention this advert from your Local Network Magazine and receive 10% off your payment! You can find me on Facebook www.facebook.com/Roselle-MossMakeup-Artist-1398666083727778 where you can see examples of my work.

With Valentine’s Day nearly here, why not book a session with me to ensure you look stunning for your date

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p18 | Local Network Magazine Issue 14 2016


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B With ladies from 18-80 years old, the group is constantly growing and everchanging to ensure everyone’s needs are met. As a not for profit charity

rafternoon was launched back in 2012 and is a unique kind of ladies-only support group for those affected by all forms of cancer. So whether you have experienced it yourself or you have been touched by the illness of a friend or family member, Brafternoon supports everyone. Hosted in a wonderful setting in Sawbridgeworth at the beautiful Manor of Groves Hotel, every 4th Monday of the month between 11am-3pm, it is well attended by a great bunch of women. It has been succinctly said, that whilst “having cancer is a club that no one wants to be in, Brafternoon is one club that everyone wants to be in!” Having cancer can be a very lonely experience once treatment has finished and the appointments are no more, so Brafternoon offers a rare opportunity to drop in and spend time with like-minded ladies who really do understand; discussing a wide range of issues, swapping suggestions and experiences and ultimately sharing one another’s journey. With ladies from 18-80 years old, the group is constantly growing and ever-changing to ensure everyone’s needs are met. As a not for profit charity, Brafternoon relies heavily on its volunteers who have made a real impact to the local community and as such in 2015, Brafternoon was recognised by The Rivers Hospital and the Helen Rollason Charity and became their official cancer support group; they really did see the value of having a support group, open to all, away from

the hospital environment for ladies throughout Herts and Essex. Brafternoon Ladies Days are supportive but they are very importantly, fun too! With refreshments and a sandwiches provided, the group often welcomes guest speakers (even a comedienne) who offer some insightful and refreshing information on a diverse range of hot topics such as wigs, makeup and fashion. There is also a social events programme which includes Christmas and Chinese New Year celebrations, day trips to the coast, vintage tea parties, fashion shows, boat trips, pub evenings and theatre visits to name but a few. Founded by Anita Gray, she is best placed in her field of image consultancy to offer the Brafternoon ladies a helping hand in finding a way back to being confident, beautiful and to reaching an overall feeling of wellbeing again. Anita said “It’s not all about cancer; it’s about giving women some ‘me time’ and an opportunity to leave everything else at the door for an afternoon and to hopefully provide a positive social experience. It really does make an incredible difference to ladies affected by cancer as well as supporting their families and friends”.

If you would like to have an informal and friendly chat about visiting Brafternoon, please call Anita Gray on 07703 254001. More information can be found at www.brafternoon.co.uk

Local Network Magazine Issue 14 2016 | p25


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Everybody Needs Good Neighbours At Watson Legal, we specialise in property disputes. That can encompass a variety of matters such as landlord and tenant disputes. However, the focus here is neighbour and co-ownership disputes.

Neighbour disputes A neighbour dispute could be in respect of a boundary, noise or even parking, just to name a few issues we see. You may think about replacing your fence or removing an overhanging tree but what impact does that have on your neighbour? Is the boundary in the correct place? How do you know where your boundary is? Another common cause of a dispute are ‘restrictive covenants’. These are usually restrictions relating to your property. For example, the prohibition of parking caravans and campervans or not parking on a certain piece of land such as a shared driveway. Unfortunately most boundaries are referred to as general boundaries not legal boundaries - which could mean up to 1 metre in error. It is therefore important to obtain guidance in respect of your Deeds before embarking on any discussions with your neighbours. Whilst Watson Legal actively encourage negotiation and discussions between you and your neighbour and taking a ‘pragmatic approach’, often these types of disputes are usually extremely emotive. At Watson Legal we provide sensible, practical and straight forward advice to help you understand your legal position and help you move forward. We can consider your Deeds to establish what restrictions you may have and offer advice regarding boundaries as

1 Ducketts Wharf, South Street, Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire CM23 3AR

well as advising you further during the process if you need to take the matter further.

Co-ownership Do you live with your partner or friends? How is the property owned? Generally when purchasing a property, you may not always consider that it should be placed in the sole name of one person, after all what could go wrong?! Unfortunately one of the key issues we deal with is when a person claims an interest in a property or claims a larger share than 50/50 following a relationship breakdown. There are various ways in which an interest can be claimed. That could be your contribution to the household such as maintaining the home and caring for the children as well as financial. At Watson Legal, we can assist in preparing the required documentation, setting out how the property is owned at the outset or when the unfortunate argument has occurred. We pride ourselves in guiding our clients at whatever stage of a co-ownership dispute they have found themselves in. Whilst you may brush away the potential risks the first time you think of them, this is a complex topic where many aspects have to be considered. By speaking to us, you can get a clear understanding and we can assist you in avoiding such issues arising in the future or resolving them if they have already started.

Please call 01279 466910 or email info@watson-legal.com to arrange your free 30 minute consultation with Sarah Watson.

Tel: 01279 466 910 www.watson-legal.com info@watson-legal.com

Local Network Magazine Issue 14 2016 | p27

Sarah Watson - Principal of Watson Legal, Solicitor and Mediator


The re’s s can omeon always d e wou o it che who l qua d you aper, b lity a nd s get the ut ervi ce?

Are you looking for an affordable quality kitchen? Do you need expert advice for a new bedroom or bathroom? At Traditional Woodcraft in Rayne Essex, we use our 30 years of experience and our commitment to personal, friendly customer service to ensure you get quality products and great service at fair prices. Tel: 01376 329794 | Mobile: 07970 390520 17 Brunwin Road, Rayne, Braintree, CM77 6BU www.traditionalwoodcraft.co.uk

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Banana & Walnut Loaf Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 60-70 minutes

Ingredients u 225g plain flour u 2 level tsp baking powder u 80g softened or spreadable butter u 1 large egg (beaten) u 110g caster sugar u 4 medium bananas (peeled) u 50g walnuts (chopped) u Zest 1 lemon u Demerara sugar for sprinkling

Method u Preheat oven to 180C / gas 4. Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin. u Mash three bananas to a pulp and chop the fourth.

Before

After

u Sift the flour and baking powder together into a separate bowl. Add the butter, egg and caster sugar. Using a mixer mix everything together for a minute or two. Add the mashed and chopped bananas and briefly whisk them into the mixture. Fold in the chopped walnuts and lemon zest. u Spoon the cake mixture into the prepared tin. Sprinkle with Demerara sugar. u Place in the pre-heated oven so that the top of the tin is in the centre. Bake for 60-70 minutes until a skewer inserted into the cake comes out clean. u Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes then turn out on to a cooling rack. u This cake is good served warm with crème fraiche, cold, or even toasted.

Professional Oven Cleaning Service Tel: 01279 491594. Mob: 07477 655965 www.myovenhero.co.uk


K i n g s W e a lt h M a n a g e m e n t Wealth Investments. Pensions Investments.

Kings Financial

Mortagages Remortgages Buy to Let Help to Buy Home Movers Life Cover Critical Illness Cover Accident, sickness & unemployment cover Buildings & contents insurance Wills & trusts Business protection Agriculture protection

Robert Rains Kings Wealth Management

Kings property Exceptional Customer Service and Client liaison Qualified specialists in all aspects for residential Sales and Lettings Access to Buyers through the Kings Group Database Prominent Window Display Advertising on rightmove.co.uk, zoopla.co.uk and primelocation.com Colour Newspaper and Magazine advertising. Members of The Property Ombudsmen Licensed Firm of The National Association of Estate Agents (MNAEA) Professional colour photography Eye catching professional colour property details Eye catching distinctive For Sale and To Let Boards

Stephen King Kings Financial

James Burke Kings Property

2 - 4 New Street Braintree Essex CM7 1ES p30 | Local Network Magazine Issue 14 2016


Wills Trusts No Will

Long-Term Care Costs

The courts have taken custody of children for up to 2 years while ‘they’ decide who will have them. Here are some other things to take into consideration;

If you have more than £14,250 in assets in the current tax year (14/15), then your home is at risk of being sold to pay for long-term care. You may well think that if your parents die, you will get their main home assets? Think again!

Marriage after Death If you die, your assets go to the surviving spouse. If they then remarry and then divorce, that new partner gets 50% of the assets from your surviving spouse. Worse still, if your surviving spouse predeceases the new partner, they get 100% of the assets. What do your children get from your marriage to your surviving spouse? Nothing!

Life Insurance and Death in Service Benefits If you have Life Insurance or Death in Service Benefits with an employer, where are the benefits paid? Could this lead to a future Tax problem? What are the options available to you?

Speak to us TODAY Simply call in or telephone to make a suitable time to discuss this further.

Inheritance Tax Ensure that once your children receive an inheritance, it cannot be attacked by divorce settlements or creditors. For example; If you leave your son and daughter £250,000 each, they then get married, but then divorce, their spouse can take 50%.

Bloodline Planning If your son or daughter predeceases their spouse, then the spouse gets 100% of what you gave them. You may have worked for 40 years to earn this money. You wish for your 2 children to benefit from it giving them the equivalent of 20 years each. In a divorce, their partners can take 10 years of your working life each!

l l i W t s a L & t n e m a t s e T

2 - 4 New Street Braintree Essex CM7 1ES Telephone: 320 999 Telephone:01376 01376 320 999www.kingsfinancial.co.uk www.kingsfinancial.co.uk Editorial details provided by Kings

p1 | Network Local Network Issue Local Magazine Issueby 14 201613|2015 p31 Editorial detailsMagazine provided Kings



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