M ovin ’
WARRINGTON
PROPERTY
& LIFESTYLE July–August 2009 l Issue 3
Magazine FREE FREE ISSUE 1
PROPERTY LADDER’S
SARAH BEENY
gives us her expert property advice
LYMM Our picture-perfect village
Sizzling Summer Fashion
! W N! IN THIS ISSUE: A two-course meal cooked in your home by a top chef AND two top-selling books
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Editor’s Note
Editor’s note... The summer has officially arrived, and with it comes the jam-packed, fourth issue of Warrington’s very own Movin’ Magazine! In this special summer issue, we’re very proud to feature the nation’s very own queen of property, Sarah Beeny, who talks to us about the opportunities that she still sees in the property market, as well as introducing her brand new website, Tepilo.com (p26). We’ll also be taking a special look at one of the prettiest and most vibrant locations in Warrington, Lymm village, and explore why it still attracts a wealth of tourists and locals alike every year (p10). Following on from our Movin’ Manchester to Liverpool charity bike ride, on page 7 we take the chance to congratulate all those who took part and to celebrate the success of the event that ran through the centre of our town at the end of May. We also bring you some of the hottest summer fashion on the high street, and our selection of the best outside solutions to help you enjoy your garden while the sun shines this summer. Our warm congratulations also go to local resident, Karen Wilkinson, the winner of last issue’s Borders competition. If you’d like to be in with a chance of win-
www.movinmagazine.com ning this issue’s prize, then turn to our regular Book Review feature on page 49. Also in this issue, don’t miss out on your chance to win an ultimate dining experience worth £200 with The Crazy Catering Company. Turn to page 44 to find out how you can enter via our website, www.movinmagazine.com From next issue, we’ll also be bringing a new feature to our ever-growing magazine: a brand new Classifieds section for local businesses and people. If you’d like to advertise in this new section, or know a local person who would like to reach thousands of local residents in Warrington for just £10, have a look at page 34 to find out more, or visit www.movinmagazine.com Remember, if you have some exciting news that you’d like to share with Warrington, simply get in touch with us and we’ll always be happy to support your local business, event, or anything else you think Warrington people should know about. Let’s keep Warrington Movin’!
The Movin’ Team info@movinmagazine.com 0800 6129 160 www.movinmagazine.com
Advertising
If you are interested in advertising in the next issue of Movin’ Magazine, contact our Advertising Sales Team either by phoning us on 0800 6129 160 or by emailing us at advertising@movinmagazine.com for availability and prices.
Website
Visit our website at www.movinmagazine.com and leave your questions and comments. We promise to respond within 48 hours and answer your queries. You’ll find lots of additional information there, as well as what’s coming up in future issues and how you can get involved. We welcome your thoughts and ideas and would love to hear your news from Warrington. Editor Hayley Thomas Advertising Sales Manager Peter Clarke Media Sales Executive James McCoy Art Director Sophia Kenwrick-Piercy Picture Researcher Diane Parker Content design Orchid Designs Ltd. Web Design Orchid Designs Ltd. Printed by Acorn Web Offset Ltd. Promotional Printing by Kwality Printer Subscriptions & Mailing List info@movinmagazine.com Distribution Rendezvous Distribution; Movin’ Distribution Ltd. Comments editor@movinmagazine.com
Copyright Copyright Movin’ Magazine. All rights reserved. Any part of this publication must not be reproduced, copied, or transmitted in any form or by any means. Storage of any information on a storage system or retrieval system is not permitted without the publisher’s written permission. Due diligence is applied to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published; however, Movin’ Magazine can accept no responsibility for the veracity of the promotions and/or claims made by advertisers. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers. All views expressed in this magazine are those of the independent journalists.
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Disclaimer All information, prices and promotions correct at time of publishing, to the best of our knowledge. Movin’ Magazine cannot be held responsible for incorrect details either written by, or published in this magazine.
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
3
Warrington Grassroots Endowment Challenge is a new initiative launched by the Government to provide grants from £250 to £5000 to community groups. Since September 08, we have issued over £80,000 to over 60 organisations and we want your help to allow this giving to continue by taking part in the Endowment Challenge.
Investing in the future of your community Every penny goes to benefit local voluntary, community and faith groups within Warrington
We have the added incentive to get your support as we are able to claim match-funding from the Government until March 2011 so a donation of £10.00 can be worth £25.60 to the Challenge, if we are able to claim Gift Aid as well. You can find out who has benefited from the Grassroots scheme so far by visiting www.warringtoncvs.org.uk/grassroots.asp
Investing in your community today can make a difference tomorrow.
Warrington Grassroots Endowment Challenge is managed by Warrington Council for Voluntary Service. Company Reg. 05404153 Charity Reg. No: 1110273. Registered in England & Wales. Tel. 01925 246880.
Yes, I want to support the Warrington Grassroots Endowment Challenge
Tick here:
I would like to make every £1 worth £1.28. I am a UK taxpayer and I would like Warrington Grassroots Endowment Challenge to reclaim the tax on all donations I have made as well as future donations.
Please accept my gift of £5
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Data protection. We would like to keep you informed about the important work we do and to tell you about the different ways that Warrington Grassroots is helping the community. Please tick this box if you do not wish to receive any more information about the Warrington Grassroots Endowment Challenge.
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Name: Address: Postcode:
Signature: Date:
£100
Tel. No:
Email:
I enclose a cheque made payable to Warrington Grassroots Endowment Challenge. I would like to set up a standing order to donate regularly to Warrington Grassroots Endowment Challenge (we will contact you to arrange this).
You can donate by cheque and send to: Warrington Grassroots Endowment Challenge c/o Warrington Council for Voluntary Service FREEPOST (NW5424) WARRINGTON WA1 1AR Alternatively, you can donate online by visiting www.bmycharity.com/warringtongrassroots
Contents
Contents Movin’... property
14 21 24 Sarah Beeny, p26
26
Movin’... with the times
6 10
Movin’... with the times All the latest news in Warrington
29
COVER FEATURE: Lymm village Our guide to the picture-perfect village on our doorstep
31
Movin’... on the market Our regular feature of the hottest properties on offer in Warrington Movin’... people Warringtonbased Antoni Dmochowski on his aspirations for the future Home SOS Home staging expert, Chrissy Halton, looks at ways to create the appearance of space in your home COVER FEATURE: Sarah Beeny The queen of property speaks to Movin’ Magazine about property and her new website A view from the inside Have your questions about property answered by experts Movin’... explained This issue, we discuss interest rates
HomeStyle, p38 Movin’... lifestyle
32 36 38 40 42 44 47 49
Fashion The latest in men’s and women’s fashion Ten Best Make the most of the Great Outdoors with our top picnic sets HomeStyle Fabulous outdoor style solutions for your garden Movin’... on the web We look at the top online music websites Home Composting How to turn your food waste into useful mulch Food Our new resident chef, Ian Robinson, gives us his recipe for Crazy Crab & Prawn Bites Travel Andrea Wren gives us the low-down on her recent visit to Carcassonne Book Review Borders reviews 10 Reasons Not To Fall In Love by Linda Green and 31 Dream Street by Lisa Jewell, plus a competition for all our readers!
50 Lymm village, p10
Pete Pinnington Presents Continuing his regular feature, Pete muses the motivation behind daddy buggy walks
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
5
Movin’... with the times
STOCKTON HEATH FESTIVAL 2009
Following the success of the first ever Stockton Heath Festival of performance art and culture, the jam-packed event is back in July for a second year with an even bigger and better events programme. Running from Thursday 9 July until Sunday 12 July, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. This year the focal points on the ‘Festival Field’ are three large, eye-catching tepee tents. If you’re looking for an event for all the family to enjoy, the opening night sees the touring theatre group, Oddsocks, performing their humorous take on Richard III in the open air, just outside of the tepees, with the audience sheltered underneath. The internationally renowned Presto Puppet Theatre are back performing Rumpelstiltskin with their wonderful half life-sized puppets bringing the story to life! Other headline acts include the fabulous Pagoda Chinese Youth Orchestra, Salsa Pa Gozar Latin American music, stand-up comedy by the Frog and Bucket, a big band night by Dr Jazz and the Cheshire Cats, Warrington Male Voice Choir, Henry’s Crisis, Cheshire Chord Company and CODYS – it’s lining up to be an amazing weekend! 6
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
The weekend is also packed full of free events and things to see, such as a farmer’s barbeque and an open-air cinema on Saturday night (this year’s film is Mamma Mia), dancing for the little ones with Jo Jingles, storytelling, canal boat trips, arts and crafts markets, a farmer’s market, an allotment open day, a ‘spot the Teddy Bear’ competition, art exhibitions, a photographic competition, toy railway exhibitions and the village scarecrows will be back making an appearance too. The weekend is run entirely by local volunteers, with the support of local businesses. This year the festival is sponsored by MC2 Hair Design, Forshaw Davies Ridgeway solicitors, Grassroots Grants, Warrington Borough Council and the Parish Councils of Stockton Heath and Appleton. Tickets for all of the events are on sale now at the Pyramid box office, on 01925 442 345, at the festival box office in The Forge on Saturdays in June and July, or by contacting boxoffice@stocktonheathfestival.co.uk. All details can be found on the new-look festival website, www.stocktonheathfestival.co.uk
Movin’... with the times
FOSTER CARE FORTNIGHT IS A SUCCESS FOR LOCAL AGENCY
CONGRATULATIONS!
Foster Care Fortnight, the national campaign co-ordinated by the Fostering Network, took place in May with the focus being on raising awareness of those children without families, and highlighting the shortage of 10,000 foster parents in the UK. Park Foster Care, a local independent agency set up in 2004, was actively involved in Foster Care Fortnight. Mike Miltiadous, Park Foster Care’s Service Manager, comments: “Although this is a difficult time for all those involved in the protection of vulnerable children, the public has responded magnificently this year and we have had a record number of enquiries about fostering”. More foster carers are needed in Warrington and across the whole of the UK to provide children with safe and caring homes while they are unable to live with their own families, and a diverse range of people with the right skills and qualities are required to meet the needs of those children in care. Park Foster Care has excellent relationships with local authorities placing children with their carers and appears on the Ofsted Outstanding Providers list 2007/08. For further information on fostering in Warrington visit www.parkfostercare.com or call 0800 169 4552.
To all those who took part in the Manchester to Liverpool charity bike ride – a big congratulations! We were graced with glorious weather, making the stunning scenery along the way even more picturesque than usual and the ride that little bit more taxing, so well done to everyone who completed the challenge! In all, more than 1500 riders took part in the 38-mile ride, making it one of the biggest charity bike rides Warrington has seen streaming through the town. Our Movin’ fundraisers were representing the Movin’ team wearing their free t-shirts. And a big pat on the back goes to Pete Stott from Lymm who had only recently celebrated his 60th birthday, and completed the ride within 3 hours. Well done, Pete! And he’s already gearing up for the even bigger challenge of the Manchester to Blackpool bike ride – over 60 miles! If you’d like to join Pete and the Movin’ team for this next charity bike ride, simply send an email to info@movinmagazine.com
Mike Miltiadous with Christine Gilbert, Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education, Children’s Services and Skills at the Ofsted ceremony in May 2009.
Have you got a story you would like to share with the whole of Warrington? Call us on 0800 6129 160, or send an email to editor@movinmagazine.com Log on to our website at www.movinmagazine.com for lots more on local events and stories
A great day was had by all this year, and an admirable £290 was raised for the Mines Advisory Group, St Rocco’s Hospice and Marie Curie Cancer Research. If you were one of the riders, or would simply like to view the photos from the day, log on to www.maginternational.org/supportmag/events/manchesterto-liverpool-bike-ride July–August 2009 | Issue 3
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Movin’... with the times
DISABILITY AWARENESS DAY 2009 “Absolutely inspirational” – that was the expression used by one visitor to last year’s North West Disability Awareness Day (DAD). Many of the record number of exhibitors and 22,000 visitors travelled from all across the North West and the UK to attend the event last year, and DAD 2009 looks set to be just as successful. It will be supported by a week of complementary events leading up to the exhibition on Sunday 12 July. The events will be held in a tented village located in the picturesque setting of Walton Hall Gardens, situated off the A56. Eighteen years of experience goes into producing this event – with over 300 exhibition stands promoting independent living, areas dedicated to arts and sports, and family entertainment throughout the week, it boasts something for everyone. DAD covers all disabilities, ages, carers and families, and if you work in the field of health, social care or disability there will be plenty to interest you at the event. DAD offers a free and accessible park-and-ride service, plus free admission and a programme. For more information about the event, visit www.disabilityawarenessday.org.uk or call Warrington Disability Partnership on 01925 240 064.
CREDIT CRUNCH SCHOOL LUNCH Up to Friday 15 July school dinners in six primary schools across Warrington will be just £1 a day! St Benedict’s, St Elphin’s, Bruche, Cherry Tree, Sycamore Lane and Woolston Primary will all be taking part in the ‘Credit Crunch Busting Lunch.’ The project is being funded by the School Food Trust with the aim of increasing take-up of school meals. Cllr Sheila Woodyatt, Executive Board Member for Children’s Services, said: “School dinners have come a long way from the stereotypical fish fingers, chips and lumpy custard. Our pupils are now more likely to be served up homemade lasagne, chicken chasseur, turkey curry and fresh fruit salad. “School meals in Warrington are prepared daily using British and local produce wherever possible and provide two of the five recommended daily portions of fruit and veg a day. They are enjoyed by thousands of young people every day.” To find out more about the project, contact Gordon Carson, Catering Services Manager, on 01925 443 080 or email gcarson@warrington.gov.uk 8
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT WARRINGTON’S GRASSROOTS The latest Government drive is aimed towards helping the smallest, volunteer-led organisations to thrive, and helping them to direct their energies towards the particular challenges that they see in their local communities. Warrington Grassroots is taking action in this way – it has supported over 50 groups since September 2008 and has issued over £80,000 to the local community. For this level of giving to continue, Warrington Grassroots needs the help of individuals and businesses to get involved in creating an endowment fund that will allow them to support our local community, with the Government matching every pound until March 2011. By creating an endowment fund, Warrington Grassroots can continue to give donations that help to build stronger communities throughout the Warrington area, from the more affluent areas to the more deprived areas in our town. If you’d like to know more about who has benefited from the Grassroots scheme so far, or how you can donate, please visit www.warringtoncvs.org.uk/grassroots. asp or call 01925 246 880.
Movin’... with the times
ORFORD PARK PLANNING APPLICATION IS SUBMITTED The exciting new £30 million development of a community sports hub in Orford moved a step closer to reality on Monday 15 June, when the outline planning application was submitted. The submission will cover the site master plan and revised building elevations, and will be considered by the Development Control Committee on Thursday 27 August. A series of workshops held in April gave community groups, service users and residents the opportunity to review the latest site plans and building layouts, and to receive a full update on the project’s progress. Comments received at the workshops shaped the final layout that is now being submitted for outline planning permission. Further consultation on the internal design of the community sports facility will be held in the late summer and will enable the detailed design to be finalised prior to submitting the full planning application information for approval in August. The community sports hub building will contain a library with IT suites, meeting rooms, a café, swimming pools, health and fitness facilities, sports hall, créche and community rooms. NHS Warrington also plans to provide three GP practices within the project, along with a pharmacy and a lifestyle team that will help patients who want to lose weight, quit smoking or drink fewer units.
Outside, there will be walking and cycling paths around the new grass pitches that will link to the existing park. The current play areas will be upgraded and extended to appeal to all age groups. There will also be skateboarding and BMX parks. The existing bowling greens will be floodlit and a new pavilion will be built, with well-lit pedestrian access all around the site. The area will be covered by CCTV and the main access to the site will be from Winwick Road with a bus stop outside of the building. Cllr Mike Hannon, community champion, said: “This is another huge milestone for the Orford Park project and we hope people will take the opportunity to view the plans and get involved. The project will regenerate the Orford area and bring significant benefits to the local community and beyond.”
Plans can be viewed by the public at the Customer Contact Centre reception, Orford and Warrington libraries, Longford Neighbourhood Services Centre, Orford Neighbourhood Project office, Cotswold Road Community building, Fordton Leisure Centre, New Town House reception, and the Town Hall reception. Alternatively, they can also be viewed online at http://orfordproject.warrington. gov.uk Any comments on the development can be submitted to the Development Control Section in writing prior to the Planning Approval Committee Meeting on 27 August 2009 at the following address: Development Control Section, Environment & Regeneration Directorate, New Town House, Buttermarket Street, Warrington, WA1 2NH.
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
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Movin’... with the times
Lymm Village Nestled away in the outskirts of Warrington, Lymm village has been attracting tourists from near and far for decades. Although it’s made up of many pretty little hamlets, such as Heatley, Oughtrington, Rushgreen and Broomedge, it’s the village centre that’s the star attraction for many visitors, with its beautiful Dingle running through the centre and its independent shops. The centre itself is a designated conser-
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July–August 2009 | Issue 3
vation area, with historic listed and unlisted buildings, such as the Town Hall, and not forgetting the infamous Cross, which is believed to be dated from the early- to the middle-17th century. Whether you’re a local resident, or simply never had the time to visit the village, we think it’s well worth taking a fresh look this summer at the beautiful village of Lymm that sits right on our doorstep.
Movin’... with the times In the last issue of Movin’ Magazine, we looked at how the canals and waterways of Warrington have made a big impact on the town. Lymm, skirted by the Manchester Ship canal and divided by the Bridgewater canal, is no exception from this. In Victorian times, the canals were used to boost industry, carrying coal towards the big sites in Manchester and beyond. Nowadays, the Bridgewater canal in particular provides a picturesque backdrop to village life, with narrow boats leisurely sailing down the canal, lingering only to admire the village’s beauty or to try some of the fine food on offer.
A short history of Lymm
The centre of the village’s history, however, undoubtedly revolves around the Cross. Standing on worn steps carved out of the natural red stone, the four stone pillars stand atop this distinctive landmark right in the centre of the village. Centuries ago, the main function of the Cross would have been as a meeting place for public gatherings and it’s also the site of the stocks, which would have been used to impart primitive justice.
If you’d like to learn more about Lymm’s past, the Lymm and District Local History Society meets on the second Monday of each month at 8pm in the village hall, Pepper Street, Lymm.
Lymm plays host to a number of wonderful events throughout the year, with Lymm Festival as this summer’s major event. This year’s festival is the tenth anniversary of the celebration, offering creative talent and a fine environment to residents and visitors alike, all crammed into ten eventful days from Thursday 25 June to Sunday 5 July. Perhaps one of the most enjoyable events as part of the festival is the scarecrow competition and trail. Various characters grace the gardens of Lymm during the festival, surprising and delighting their visitors. But the festival is also about appealing to every age and every taste, offering almost every kind of music, as well as dance, drama, comedy and exhibitions. Visit www.lymmfestival.org.uk to find out more.
Events in Lymm of s r u ! 2 ho arking p y free from 6 Jul ble
ila Ava
St. per Pep Display & Pay
Every Christmas also sees the return of the Dickensian Day in Lymm, with street entertainers, food stands and shopkeepers in traditional dresswear. And just as much as Dickensian Day tells us Christmas is coming, the annual Duck Race on Easter Monday marks the beginning of the spring months. Every Easter, crowds of people line the Upper Dam in Lymm, to watch more than 1000 plastic ducks drifting along the river. The Duck Race makes for a memorable day out, and what’s even more reassuring to know is that all of the proceeds from the event go to charity. July–August 2009 | Issue 3
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Movin’... with the times
Lymm Dam’s natural beauty and tranquillity attracts cyclists, dog-walkers, families and anglers all year round. Its woodlands and meadows are also teeming with wildlife and the site’s history gives it a unique character; the sandstone around the Dam was created around 250 million years ago, while the Dam itself was constructed in 1824. In its day, the area around the dam was part of Lymm Hall Estate, which owned much of the village. Now, the site attracts visitors from all over the North West, and is the location for many special events and nature trails; to the right, we’ve selected just a few of the events on offer this summer.
Poems at the Dam Sunday 5 July, 10.30am–5.30pm Whether you’re walking the dog, out for a jog, riding a bike or taking a hike, spend a few moments enjoying the poems you’ll find dotted around the Dam as part of Lymm Festival 2009 Dipping at the Dam Wednesday 29 July 1.30–3pm Can you find a water scorpion or a whirligig beetle? Come along and investigate the creatures of the deep living in Lymm Dam. You’ll be by the water’s edge, so wellies and old clothes are advisable. Places are limited so please book in advance on 01925 758 195. Meet: Ranger Cabin, off Crouchley Lane Summer nature trail Wednesday 5 August 1.30–3pm Put your map reading (and detective) skills to the test! Fun for all ages on this wildlife quest around the Dam. Meet: Ranger Cabin, off Crouchley Lane Evening bat walk Wednesday 12 August 9–10.30pm Lymm Dam is home to many bats and on a warm summer night the air is full of them feeding. With the aid of a powerful torch and bat detectors, discover their nocturnal world on this walk around the Dam. Places are limited so please book in advance on 01925 758 195. Meet: Ranger Cabin, off Crouchley Lane
Aside from being housed within a magnificent building, Lymm High School is one of our town’s best assets. The school was judged to be ‘outstanding’ in a recent Ofsted inspection, with consistently excellent GCSE and A level results. With a history stretching back to the late 16th century, it’s unsurprising that many generations of Warrington residents can be proud to say that they have been taught at the school (including two of our very own Movin’ team!). In fact, the school is once again attracting previous generations back through their doors with their adult classes. 12
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
Movin’... with the times
Mine’s a pint!
Would you like to run a business in Lymm? The businesses in Lymm village centre benefit from the unity provided by the Lymm Traders Association. The association liaises with traders and the Parish and Borough councillors, with the aim of ensuring Lymm centre remains a healthy and vibrant shopping option. With regular meetings and the use of the internet for keeping everyone up to date, Lymm is moving with the times. Although the majority of the retail units in the centre are currently full, there are a couple still available, and research gathered from regular customers highlights their desire for a greengrocer’s and a fishmonger’s to be introduced. Are you an existing greengrocer or fishmonger looking to expand? If you’re thinking about Lymm as an option, Lymm Traders will help all that they can. For more information, you can contact Philip Sexton on 01925 753 669, or email philip@sextonsbakery. co.uk, or alternatively have a look at their website, www.lymmtraders.net
Eight of the best gastropubs in Lymm
The Golden Fleece
The Spread Eagle
The Bulls Head
41 The Cross
47 Eagle Brow
32 The Cross
The Crown
Saddlers
The Church Green
15 Booths Hill Road
7 Bridgewater Street
The Green Dragon
2 Mill Lane
Higher Lane
The Barn Owl Inn
Warrington Lane
We can’t think of anything more relaxing than having a glass of wine in one of the wine bars in Lymm village on a sunny, summer afternoon. Although the village Saddlers on Bridgewater Street and Rosco’s on Rectory Lane are has no lack of pubs offering always sure to be jam-packed with locals and lots of atmosthe time-honoured pub grub, phere on a Friday or Saturday night, but if you fancy the dining experiences on offer in something a bit more relaxed, try visiting the more Lymm have seen tremendous changes traditional Green Dragon or over the last ten years. In fact, the choice The Farmers Arms, a bit further on offer can be an unexpected surprise for many out of the village. paying a visit to the village, with hearty pub food on
offer right next to the swankier, upmarket restaurants, with cuisine from around the globe. Our favourites for the best of both worlds include the Church Green (particularly with their credit-crunching two for £10 weekdays offer), The Chilli Club, offering authentic Thai food, and La Boheme, for a more chic dining experience. July–August 2009 | Issue 3
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Movin’... property
Glazewood, Lately Common, Glazebury, Warrington, WA3
£750,000 Asking price
4
Bedrooms
6
Reception rooms
3
Bathrooms
The agent’s description... “Courtyard’s premium section, Residence, is delighted to offer for sale this individually designed, prestigious property, set in the semi-rural location of Glazebury Village, while still close to all motorway networks and local amenities. With an abundance of reception rooms, this property offers an exceptional level of flexibility, and easily lends itself to any family dynamic. Aside from the interior, the extensive outside space alone is a major attraction.”
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July–August 2009 | Issue 3
Jan Haywood Courtyard Property Consultants The Courtyard 26 Common Lane, Culcheth WA3 4HA
01925 767 000 info@courtyardpropertyconsultants.co.uk
Movin’... property
Rosewood Avenue, Warrington, WA4
£104,950 Asking price
2
Bedrooms
2
Reception rooms
1
Bathroom
The agent’s description... “This immaculate, two-bedroom terrace is brought to the market with no upward chain. The property is presented to a very high standard, with benefits such as gas central heating, double glazing and off-road parking to the rear. Accommodation is arranged over two floors, retaining many original features. Ideally located to provide access to amenities, it makes for an excellent first-time buyer’s home. A must view.”
Ben Price Ashtons Estate Agency 144 Padgate Lane Warrington WA1 3LA
01925 479 334 padgate@ashtons-online.co.uk
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
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Homelets Template:Layout 1
4/20/09
9:04 AM
Page 1
Allerton 1 Allerton Road,Street, Mossley Hill Tel: 0151 4047 Warrington 77 Sankey Warrington Tel: 280 01925 577 555
Beechtree Road, L15 Cherry Court, WA1
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2 Bedroom GroundApartment Floor Apartment 2 Bedroom UFGlazed, with White GoodsHeated Double Central Double Glazing, GCH Secure Parking FF Kitchen,With Secure Offered No Parking Chain
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South Grove, L8 Museum Street, WA1
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Basing L19 HertfordStreet, Apts, WA2
Temple L2 Huntley Square, Street, WA5 t ec bj es su enc t r Le efe r to
t jec s ub nce s e t r Le efe r to
£90,000 £450 pcm
1 Bedroom GroundMid Floor Apartment 2 Bedroom, Terrace FullyGlazed, Furnished Double GCH FFFitted Kitchen Lounge, Kitchen Secure ParkingRear Yard Downstairs Bathroom,
£90,000 £475 pcm
Bedroom Terrace 2 3Bedroom, Terrace UF with White Goods Investment Opportunity Double Glazing Viewings Recommended FF NoKitchen Chain
CHALLENGE US TO SELL Challenge us to YOUR PROPERTY! – Our experienced team LET YOUR PROPERTY! promises to provide a very personal service with Our updates experienced promises to provide a very regular andteam advice - we are confident that personal service with regular updates and advice we can provide clients with the best possible service we are confident that we can provide clients with the and guide you every step of the way. Selling your best possible service and guide you every home with HomeSales means that notstep onlyofisthe a way. Letting your property with Homelets means that most professional service available but also a great not with only our is it introductory the most professional value service reduced fees. service but team also a today! great value service! Contact ouravailable specialist
£89,950 £475 pcm 2 Bedroom Top Floor Apartment 2 Bedroom, Mid Terrace UF with White Goods Lounge GCH, Investment Property, Double Glazing & GCH Kitchen, No Chain FFRecommended Kitchen Viewings
£84,950 £475 pcm
2 Bedroom End Terrace Apartment FF & Equipped Lounge/Dining Room, Kitchen Double Glazing No Chain, 1 Bedroom, Bathroom, FFRecommended Kitchen Viewings
LANDLORDS! No Let No Fee, Free Market Appraisal
Free Inventory, Free Credit Check Let the specialists take away the hassle of letting your property Full Management & Let Only Services Available
Homelets Template:Layout 1
4/20/09
9:04 AM
Page 1
Allerton 1 Allerton Road,Street, Mossley Hill Tel: 0151 4047 Warrington 77 Sankey Warrington Tel: 280 01925 577 555
Beechtree Road, L15 Holywell Drive, WA1 t jec s ub ce t s eren e L ef r to
£135,000 £495 pcm
RoyalCourt, Quay,WA1 L3 Dutton
Holly Court, Oxford Street, L19 WA4
Burdett Street, L17 Rushton Close, WA5
t jec s ub nce s t re Le efe r to
£129,950 £495 pcm
£121,995 £495 pcm
£119,950 £500 pcm
2 Bedroom 2nd Floor Apartment 3 Bedroom Mid Terrace FF &Downstairs Equipped w/c Alarmed, Double Glazing Double Glazed, GCH FF Kitchen, Allocated Driveway, Front & RearParking Gardens
2 Bedroom 1st Floor Apartment 2 Bedroom Apartment & Equipped Double FF Glazed, E7 Heating Double Glazing, Balcony Secure Parking FF Kitchen, NoAllocated chain Parking
Bedroom Mid Terrace 22 Bedroom Apartment 2Electric Reception Rooms Heating UF with White Goods, GCH Double Glazed, FF Kitchen Allocated Parking
2 Bedroom 1st Floor Apartment Mid Terrace with White Goods Two Two UF Double Bedrooms, Double Glazing Reception Rooms Double Glazed FFKitchen, Kitchen, Allocated Parking Fitted GCH, Yard To Rear
Springbourne Road, Ellison Street, WA4L17
Heysmoor Heights, Butts Green, WA5L8
Sunningdale Road, Chapel Lane, WA8L15
Rosslyn Street,WA8 L17 Chapel Lane,
t ec bj es su enc t r Le efe r to
£119,950 £550 pcm
£118,950 £550 pcm
£109,950 £550 pcm
£104,950 £550 pcm
2 Bedroom Terrace 3 Bedroom Terrace Part Furnished Investment opportunity FF Kitchen, No Double Chain Glazing GCH, OnRecommended Street Parking Viewings
1 Bedroom Penthouse Apartment 2 Bedroom Apartment with White GoodsHeated DoubleFFGlazed, Central Double Glazing, GCH Secure Parking FFOffered Kitchen,With Allocated Parking No Chain
2 Apartment 2 Bedroom Bedroom, Terrace Unfurnished Double Glazed, GCH Double Glazing, Loft Room, ThroughGCH Lounge FFRecommended Kitchen Viewings
Bedroom Apartment 2 2Bedroom, Mid Terrace Unfurnished Investment Property Double Glazing, No ChainGCH FF Recommended Kitchen Viewings
SouthRoad, Grove, L8 Borron WA12
Seymour Road,WA4 L14 Mitchell Street,
Basing Street, Thornycroft Drive,L19 WA1
Temple Square, L2 Castle Green, WA5
£90,000 £575 pcm
Bedroom Semi 23 Bedroom, MidDetached Terrace UF withGlazed, White Goods Double GCH Double Glazing, GCH Lounge, Fitted Kitchen FF Kitchen, Private Driveway Downstairs Bathroom, Rear Yard
£90,000 £595 pcm
2 Bedroom Terrace Cottage 2 Bedroom, Terrace UF with White Goods Investment Opportunity Double Recommended Glazing, GCH Viewings Allocated Parking No Chain
CHALLENGE US TO SELL TENANTS! YOUR PROPERTY! – Weexperienced have a rangeteam of properties to let from Studio Flats Our and Apartments to Semi Detached Houses and Mansions. promises to provide a very personal service with Contact our experienced lettings who will gladly regular updates and advice - we team are confident that helpprovide you findclients your dream home. either: we can with the bestContact possible service and guide you every step of the way. Selling your home with HomeSales means that not is 577 a 555 Michelle Grey (Snr Lettings Negotiator) on only 01925 most professional service available but also a great value service with our introductory Natalie Taylor (Lettings Negotiator) reduced on 01925fees. 577 555 Contact our specialist team today!
£89,950 £625 pcm Bedroom Town House 2 2Bedroom, Mid Terrace UF with White Goods Lounge GCH, Investment Property, Double Glazing, GCH Kitchen, No Chain Front & Recommended Rear Gardens Viewings
£84,950 £895 pcm
4 Bedroom Detached Apartment 2 Lounge/Dining Reception Rooms, Fully Furnished Room, Kitchen Double Glazing, GCH, Double 1 Bedroom, Bathroom, No Garage Chain, FFViewings Kitchen, Front & Rear Garden Recommended
LANDLORDS! LANDLORDS NEEDED! No Let No Fee, Market Appraisal We haveFree a range of services available from Full Management to Let Only. Free Inventory, Free Credit Check
not be beaten onthe ourhassle fees! of LetWe thewill specialists take away letting your property For a Free Lettings appraisal on your property contact Antoni Dmochowski (Branch Manager) Full Management & Let Only Services on 01925 577 555 Available
Movin’... property
The Stables, Parkside Road, Winwick, WA2
£1500 pcm
3
Bedrooms
3
Reception rooms
2
Bathrooms
The agent’s description... “Lettings from Courtyard are delighted to offer to let this unique, three-bedroom barn conversion set in an extensive plot of around one acre. In addition to three reception rooms and two bathrooms, the kitchen offers a fantastic living space with the convenience of a utility room. The property also has secure access, private gardens, ample parking and a double garage. This is a rare opportunity to live in such beautiful surroundings – viewings are a must.“
18
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
Lee Houghton Lettings from Courtyard The Courtyard 26 Common Lane, Culcheth WA3 4HA
01925 767 000 info@lettingsfromcourtyard.co.uk
Movin’... property
Wildersmoor Farm, Higher Lane, Lymm, WA13
£1995 pcm
4
Bedrooms
3
Reception rooms
1
Bathroom
The agent’s description... “A stunning detached farmhouse situated in the heart of Lymm. The property is beautifully presented throughout, with entrance hall, lounge, dining room, seperate kitchen, second sitting room, downstairs WC and a glass conservatory with stunning views. The first floor offers four double bedrooms and a family bathroom. This would be perfect for a tenant with horses or for other farming purposes as there is further land available for rent.”
Ken Chambers Cheshire Housing Management 2 Bridgewater Street Lymm, Cheshire WA13 0AB
01925 75 75 75 lettings@cheshire-housing.co.uk
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
19
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careers; however it was the property market that always interested me. I was given the position of Lettings Negotiator in our head office in Liverpool where I excelled and was offered the position of Branch Manager in Warrington in February 2008. How long have you been with your company? I have been with HomeLets for two and half years.
Your name: Antoni Dmochowski (‘Tosh’ for short!). Your business name: HomeLets. Where do you work from? Our office on Sankey Street, Warrington. What’s your job role? My job role is Branch Manager. This includes the day to day running of the Warrington office. I do property appraisals for both sales and lettings valuations, conduct viewings with prospective tenants, perform checkin and check-out appointments and am responsible for advertising, marketing and generating new business. How did you become involved in property? I graduated from the University of Leicester with an Honours degree in Geography. I studied a subject that opened doors to many different
What does the future hold for your company in Warrington? The future for HomeLets in Warrington looks to be very successful. We have been established for over 17 years and in that time have become one of the leading agents in the area. At the start of this year we decided to branch out into sales, which so far, given the current economic climate, has been very successful. How have you been affected by the ‘credit crunch’? We have tried to take a positive outlook with regard to the credit crunch. With our business in the past being primarily lettings, many vendors have decided to let their properties rather than sell. Through this we have had more property come onto the market, hence more choice for prospective tenants. This extra stock has allowed us to rent out more
property and so far has benefited us. With regard to sales, we are also starting to notice more movement in the market, especially from first-time buyers. There is some light starting to peep through at the end of the tunnel. What’s the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you? The best piece of advice I have ever been given is ‘Don’t do tomorrow what you can do today’. This has been very useful in property as you never know what the next day can bring! What do you love about your job? The thing I love most about my job is helping people to find their ideal home. Buying or renting a property is probably one of the most important things people will do in their lives and it’s nice to be part of that! What are your ambitions? My ambition is to strive to make HomeLets the premier agent in the North West. We have a great team both in Warrington and Liverpool and every day we take further strides to maintain this goal. HomeLets, 77 Sankey Street, Warrington, Cheshire, WA1 1SL. Tel.: 01925 577 555
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
21
WELCOME TO LADIES FITNESS & WELLNESS GYM IN LATCHFORD The new LFW 30-minute workout gym in Latchford offers something special for women of any age, size or fitness level. We cater for women who want to lose weight, drop dress sizes and tone up, but who don’t necessarily like the gym. Sherrill Cook knows all too well why people fear the gym but her mind was completely changed after she joined LFW in Ellesmere Port. “I live a busy life, I like food and drink but I don’t like treadmills and what conventional gyms have to offer,” said Sherrill, a former mental health nurse. “But when I joined this gym, I achieved great results and really enjoyed it because it was just 30 minute sessions, three times a week.” Sherrill was so impressed that she decided to open a branch of the gym chain herself on Kingsway South in Latchford. LFW is specifically designed with women in mind and offers a full body workout, alternating nine resistance machines with nine aerobic squares, or rest stations. Thirty seconds is spent on each piece of equipment and three full circuits are completed in total. A warmup is followed by 20 minutes of cardiovascular and resistance training on the circuit which works on ALL your major muscle groups. The session is finished with a cool down and stretching routine and all of this takes
just 30 minutes. All the while, fast-paced music is played to motivate the members to obtain their own personal target heart rates. “You won’t find the no-pain no-gain motto at LFW. Our members work at their own pace in a non-competitive, friendly environment.” Focusing on building up a high number of repetitions with a low resistance tones the muscle while maintaining your correct target heart rate to obtain maximum fat burning; you will feel energised without feeling fatigued. One fantastic feature of this amazing workout is that anyone at any fitness level can do it and it’s safe because the equipment automatically adjusts to the fitness level of the user. As you begin to tire, the resistance decreases automatically. What’s more, the equipment is easy to use and requires no co-ordination. With the help of her enthusiastic and committed staff, Sherrill offers fitness solutions for women of all abilities in her spacious, newly refurbished gym. She added: “We’re very customer focused in helping people to achieve their desired goals. Plus, there’s no joining fee, contract or appointments.” To get in touch, call 01925 574 050 or pop along to arrange a free trial.
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Movin’... property
HOME
S O S Chrissy Halton launched Innerspace Interior Design in January 2005. She is a qualified Interior Designer and has trained in Home Staging with Channel 5’s House Doctor, Ann Maurice. Chrissy is also a Senior Consultant member of the UK Home Staging Network and a member of the Association of Professional Declutterers and Organisers (UK), enabling her to provide a variety of styling and home organisation services for her clients.
This month, Chrissy looks at how to create space, how to make the most of your home’s potential, and tricks to give the impression of larger rooms.
Focus on... Creating space Buyers focus their search on three main areas: location, size and price. As a seller, there’s little that can be done to change your property’s location; therefore, sellers should focus on ensuring that the size and price of their property is correct, and that their home is perceived as good value for money. When viewing your house, buyers will be critically looking at each room in your home and deciding whether the space is big enough for them and will be suitable for their needs. There are no two ways about it – space sells, and the more you can show in your property, the better value for money it will appear, and the more likely you are to get a sale. 24
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
Now, I am not suggesting adding an extension or a conservatory when you sell, but merely advising that the space that you do have is shown to buyers to be as spacious and as useful as possible. Decluttering is one of the most powerful ways of increasing the feel of space in your home, and is an economical way of adding value. Rooms filled with boxes, overflowing wardrobes, items under the beds, etc., all do nothing to sell your space. If your home is struggling to fit all of your possessions, why would it fit in those of your buyer’s? This automatically devalues your house, as it creates a small and cluttered feel.
Get rid of any rubbish, give some items to charity and store anything that isn’t required until after the move. You’ll be left with the things that you need on a day-to-day basis, or stylish objects that will help to sell your home. You’ll not only have created more space but will also have helped start the first stage of your move by packing away some items and getting rid of others. Take as many things off the floor as possible – it’s been shown that the more floor space on show, the larger you perceive the room to be. This can be seen in bathroom showrooms, where small rooms can be fitted with wall-hung toilets and sinks, making the room feel larger.
Movin’... property
APPLY COLOUR
use Mirrors
Colour can be a very effective way of creating space in a home. A dark colour on the walls will always make the room feel smaller than it is. I advise when selling to use soft and light colours on the walls and floors. Darker colours can be used, but keep them for the smaller things, such as accessories.
Mirrors automatically enhance the feeling of space by reflecting the room in which they are placed, but they also help to bounce light around the room. Used in dark hallways, they work wonders to increase the space that buyers perceive.
GIVE THE ROOM A PURPOSE Now that you’ve created space, you need to give every room a clear purpose. If you’re selling a three-bedroom house, make sure it has three bedrooms and not two bedrooms with a store room or office. Buyers will think that it’s an overpriced twobedroom property, as many cannot see past how you use the space. Think about what activities will be taking place in the house (relaxing, sleeping, eating, etc.) and ensure that you have a defined space for all of these things.
Space Sells
Create more space in your home to add value to your property
STAGE AN EMPTY PROPERTY Rooms tend to look smaller when empty. This can put off some buyers and make them assume that their furniture won’t fit. If they can’t envisage themselves living in the space, then they won’t make that all-important offer. Stage your property using just enough furniture and accessories to show the room’s potential, but not to overcrowd it.
MAXIMISE NATURAL LIGHT Make the most of the natural light in a space to make it feel larger. Take away nets and pull back curtains from the window to allow light to flood in – you’ll be amazed at the difference this makes.
If you would like to find out more about home staging and creating the impression of space in your home, contact Chrissy Halton by visiting her website at www.innerspaceinteriordesign.co.uk
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
25
Movin’... with the times
SARAH BEENY We ask the queen of property and development how she sees the future of the housing market taking shape , and we also speak to her about her brand new website , Tepilo.com
Movin’ Magazine: Let’s get straight to the nittygritty: how do you see the recovery of the market taking shape? Sarah Beeny: At the moment, I think the market’s bouncing along the bottom. There are still glimmers of hope, but there are still a lot of worries out there. I’m naturally pessimistic though so I’m always thinking about what’s the worst that could happen! MM: Would you recommend people to still get into property development in these current conditions? SB: As long as you’ve done your sums correctly and are realistic about your costs, but most importantly, realistic about your resale price, then there’s never a bad time. You just have to work within the climate you’re in. There may be smaller margins to be had, but that just means that your true ability will really shine through. Plus, if you’ve got some capital, there’s less competition out there because there are fewer people looking to buy. As long as you buy at the right price, have a realistic budget, and don’t overestimate the resale value then the opportunities are definitely still there. MM: What would you say to those people who are worried that their house is worth less than their mortgage? SB: Carry on regardless! Go to work, come home, put on some washing and pick up the kids. Negative equity only affects you when you want to sell your home. As long as you can pay the mortgage, it doesn’t matter how much it’s worth at all; it’s certainly nothing to worry about. If you suddenly find that you can’t pay the mortgage and the house is worth less than the value of the balance on your 26
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
mortgage itself so you can’t really sell, rent it out instead. This will cover your mortgage in the short term, and in the future when prices recover, you can sell it then. MM: Can you tell us about your new website, Tepilo.com? SB: Tepilo.com is basically a free service for private sellers to advertise their properties on the internet. It’ll hold your hand through the buying process. We started it to provide help and advice for buyers and sellers who don’t wish to go down the conventional route of using an agent. Although estate agents’ fees are far more reasonable up North than they are in London, for
Movin’... with the times MM: Is Tepilo.com just for people looking to sell their home? SB: No, it’s a good resource for those people who just need advice on HIPs and energy performance certificates (EPCs) too, for example. The site is very customer driven – very simple and easy to use. In fact, it’s a beautifully built website – I didn’t make it myself so I can say that! It really is a public service though, with no flashing advertising or anything like that.
As long as you can pay the mortgage , it doesn’t matter how much your house is worth MM: When does the site launch? SB: Sellers have already started uploading their properties since Monday 15 June, but the site doesn’t officially go live until Thursday 9 July.
example, some people would still rather deal with the sale of their property themselves if they have the time and inclination. So through Tepilo.com we decided to offer advice on presenting your property, making sure sellers meet legal requirements, and I’m also going to visit properties myself to help sellers who are struggling to get viewers through the door. We’ll also be providing links to solicitors for the legal side of selling a property, to signage companies for the ‘for sale’ boards, as well as to providers of home information packs (HIPs).
Sarah's Top Tips
at the right price 1 Buy Pay too much in the beginning and you’ll be playing catch up from the word “Go”.
out a realistic budget 2 Work Don’t forget the costs of buy-
ing and selling and make sure you have a contigency fund for emergencies.
a realistic schedule 3 Set Rome wasn’t built in a day!
There’s an order to renovations – make sure you’ve got an action plan.
overestimate the 4 Don’t resale price
The value of a property is determined by what a buyer is willing to pay – not what you’ve spent on it!
well 5 Design Simple, classic design works every time.
If you’d like to find out more about Sarah Beeny’s latest property venture on the web, visit www.tepilo.com
means perfection 6 Completion Buyers won’t pay top dollar for a
Would you like to ask Sarah a question?
a balance 7 Strike More bedrooms doesn’t mean
On Thursday 9 July at 1pm, Sarah will be doing a live webchat. Simply visit our website, www.movinmagazine.com on the day where you’ll be able to ask Sarah that all-important property question, and receive a personal response from the country’s leading property developer.
property when the basics aren’t done right.
more profit. Get a good balance of bedrooms to bathrooms to reception rooms.
your figures 8 Know There’s no point having a budget unless you stick to it!
See our website for more information!
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
27
Kidd & Co. (IFA) Ltd Independent Financial Advisers Certificated in Financial Planning by The Chartered Insurance Institute
Andrew Mason (FPC) Financial Consultant 01925 212 077 07793 202 306
Independent Financial Whole of Market Advice on: Life Assurance Investment and Savings Pension Planning Mortgage and Equity Release FREE NO OBLIGATION FINANCIAL HEALTH CHECK
Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority
Movin’... property
A view from the inside...
Got a question regarding your property? Have your query answered by an industry expert; email your questions to editor@movinmagazine.com
The Solicitor
The Mortgage Adviser
I’m buying a house that has double glazing but the current owner doesn’t have a Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (FENSA) certificate. Should the seller arrange for a certificate or should I get indemnity insurance? Ideally, the seller should arrange for a certificate, as that provides a guarantee that the windows have been installed correctly and in compliance with building regulations. Insurance is the second-best option as it provides a means of claiming compensation if the installation wasn’t done properly and enforcement action is taken by the local authority.
I’ve seen lots of houses for sale offering cashback on completion. How does this affect getting a mortgage? A builder on a new-build property normally offers this benefit. The main reason for this is that they will be looking to pay the 5% deposit or a contribution to the deposit to help the buyer to get a mortgage and complete the sale. This is a common occurrence and most lenders are happy with this arrangement, provided that they do not exceed the standard 5%. This can help greatly, as the bigger the deposit, the more competitive the mortgage rate. The reason for this is that, due to the current climate, we need to be mindful that the purchase price is realistic for valuation purposes.
I’ve agreed a sale on my property. I’m worried that, due to the buyers’ constant delays, they are going to pull out. Can they do this and will I be liable for costs? Yes, the buyer can pull out without being liable for compensation or penalty up to the point of exchange of contracts, as can you, the seller, if you change your mind or your situation changes. This is one of the main drawbacks of the English system of conveyancing. There have been many attempts over the years to change this or to protect the parties in some way but none have stuck as the changes themselves usually come with their own disadvantages. These questions were answered by Tim Jordan of Forshaws Davies Ridgway solicitors. For further advice, call Tim on 01925 230 000
I’ve decided to rent my own home out and move to a new property. Do I need to change my mortgage? Each person has a different situation but, strictly speaking, you need to inform your mortgage lender, as this will affect your application for a new mortgage on your new property. The reason for this is that most lenders use affordability calculators but if you have a buy-to-let mortgage the tenant is technically paying the mortgage and they’ll accept this. If you decided to keep the mortgage as it is this could affect the affordability calculator, as you will have to prove to the new lender that you can afford to pay both mortgages. The estate agent for a property that I’m interested in buying asked for a ‘mortgage promise’ to ‘qualify’ my offer – what does this mean and how can I get one? ‘Qualify’ means that a Financial Adviser has submitted your details, with your permission, to a lender to ensure that you have the capacity to purchase the property. Once this has been done, then you have been qualified as a potential mortgage borrower. This doesn’t guarantee that you have the mortgage though, as there will be other checks and a satisfactory valuation of the property to be done. These questions were answered by Andrew Mason, Financial Adviser with Kidd & Co. (IFA) Ltd. For further guidance on these questions or on any other matters that you may have, call Andrew on 07793 202 306 or 01925 212 077, or send an email to andrewmason@kiddandco.co.uk Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or other loans secured on it
Kidd & Co. (IFA) Ltd Independent Financial Advisers
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
29
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Movin’... property
Every issue we look at what’s happening in the economic world and ask the really important question: What does it all mean for me? This issue we take a look at interest rates and how they affect homeowners. Interest rates are all around us; however, if you’re borrowing money in any way at the moment, then you’ll be particularly aware of the interest charges in this economic climate. But it’s worth noting that it’s not just the public and businesses that have to borrow money and incur interest charges; banks themselves have to make sure that they can also borrow enough money to have readily available cash to continue running their business of lending money to people. When a bank needs money though, they borrow it from another bank that has a surplus amount. Banks therefore have their own interest rate system, called the London Inter-bank Offer Rate (LIBOR), which determines how much interest banks should pay to each other when borrowing money. This means that the interest rate that they offer to us will also be dependent on the LIBOR. The LIBOR, then, must be relatively low so that the banks themselves can make a profit by lending that money on to us.
Banks have their own interest rate system called the LIBOR The interest rate that we all hear about as consumers is set once a month by the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) at the Bank of England. They have the difficult job of choosing a figure that is low enough to encourage people
to borrow money, but is also high enough so that people will be encouraged to save money and make people’s cash grow, with the hope that they will then spend this money in the economy at a later date. It’s reviewed and reset every month and is currently set at 0.5%*, which is extremely low compared to recent times. In doing this, the MPC is trying to encourage the public to pump money back into the economy by making items less expensive to buy in the first place. Also, by trying to put people off from saving their cash with the prospect of low interest rates on their savings, consumers should be more likely to spend their money. Interest rates and mortgage holders As a mortgage is a loan in its basic form, if you’re a mortgage holder then you’ll be similarly affected by interest rates, just as the rest of the public are. While the public are at the mercy of the MPC in the way mentioned above, mortgage holders do have means of predicting the future, helping them to save money by choosing a certain type of mortgage. If you decide to ‘fix’ your mortgage, this means that you’re choosing to pay the same interest rate for a certain time, rather than pay whatever the MPC sets as the current interest rate. Alternatively, if you decide to ‘track’ the Bank of England’s interest rate, your monthly repayments on your mortgage will either go up or down in line with that rate. At the moment, those who chose to track their mortgage with the Bank of England are paying less interest on their mortgage. Consumers must be careful though, as interest rates will indeed rise again in the future, meaning so will their mortgage repayments!
% Interest rates
Confidence and interest rates No matter which option you choose for your mortgage, it will always be a gamble, as no one can predict the future. Looking back through history will give you an educated guess but, ultimately, the future will be shaped by global events that affect the public’s confidence. Basically, if people are confident about the future, they’re willing to borrow more money and generally spend more because their job is secure and the value of their house is rising. This is why, every so often, we end up with booms and then busts. A boom arises out of the
Always make sure that if you do borrow money that you can afford to pay it back public’s confidence in the good times lasting forever, whereas busts occur when confidence has been shaken and the future looks uncertain. Regardless of whether the economy is in boom or bust, always make sure that if you do borrow money that you can afford to pay it back. That way, you’re doing everything you can to ensure that, whatever the future holds for our economy, your money and your assets can be as safe as houses. *
Correct at time of print
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
31
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croc
£59.99, Tripp
het 0, B
Plastic fl o
, £1 bag é
arch
onm
Spot beach bag, £6, Matalan
White pu trim plaited handle basket, £28, Accessorize
Gold strappy sandals, £25, Evans Sandals, £35, Marks & Spencer
Sued £30, e tassel sand Nex t als, 32
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
Navaho sandals, £34.99, River Island
ral emb roidere £25, Ma d bead bag, rks & Sp encer
Silver frame sunglasses, £12.99, TK Maxx
Movin’... lifestyle Sunglasses, £12, ASOS.com
White handmade pearlized sunglasses, £45, Accessorize
Ray Ban A viator sun g £107.66, Freeman lasses, s Multicoloured striped beach bag,
£9.99, TK Maxx
SIZZLING
SUMMER ACCESSORIES
Zandra Rhodes multi print beach bag, £29.50, Marks & Spencer
Beach bag towel, £20, BHS
Look no further for inspiration than this month’s Movin’ guide to the musthave accessories for hitting the beach. We’ve got the lowdown on the latest sunglasses, bags and trendy sandals to make an impact this summer.
Tan thong flip-flop, £25, French Connection
So F a san bulou dals s , £2 Gold ‘V 2, L ittle oyage woo ’ rop e ds
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
33
Coming in the next issue of Movin’ Magazine
CLASSIFIED ADS For just
£10! ELECTRICIAN Fully NICEIC qualified, reliable electrician. Free estimates and no call out charge. References and previous work available upon request. Any size job considered. Available evenings and weekends. 07740 193 604/0800 6129 160
To advertise in the Classifieds section of our next issue (September–October), send the three pieces of information outlined below to info@movinmagazine.com or simply call 0800 6129 160
TITLE
No more than 30 characters (incl. spaces)
TEXT
No more than 180 characters (incl. spaces)
CONTACT
No more than 28 characters (incl. spaces)
AUDI A6 (BLACK)
HAIRDRESSER
TO LET
‘58’ plate 2.7 TDi Le Mans Limited Edition in metallic black. Automatic, tiptronic paddle shift, upgraded colour screen with Sat Nav, 6 CD, 40+ mpg, interior lighting pack, parking sensors. Only 15,000 miles. carseller@sellmycar.co.uk
Time-served hairdresser for home visits. Client base and photographic portfolio available upon request. Discounts for multiple cuts at one address. Available evenings and weekends & can travel. 07740 193 604/0800 6129 160
3 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, large fully-fitted kitchen with integrated appliances. Double glazing and gas central heating. Available fully furnished on a long-term let. For pictures and details, send an email to: landlord@thisismyhouse.com
Niel Harrison Over 40 years of experience in the trade
Local, small job specialist Maintenance, joinery and home improvements
Tel.: 07972 188 494 Email: nielharrison@hotmail.com
Movin’... lifestyle
Hibiscus swim shorts, £16, BHS
Swimming shorts, £9.50, Marks & Spencer
TAKE FIVE
Stand out on the beach in bright print shorts, and with our favourites starting from just £5, there’s no need to break the bank this summer.
Lee Cooper floral swim shorts, £10, Matalan
Red floral print swim shorts, £12, Sainsbury’s
Skull shorts, £5, George
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
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10 Movin’... lifestyle
be
st
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July–August 2009 | Issue 3
Picnic sets...
Rediscover the Great Outdoors this summer
Movin’... lifestyle
Carnival Optima 4 person picnic basket, £64.95, Prezzybox.com
picnic 4-person hamper, £45, Next
Pic Boll Guzzini Picnicware set, £39, Amaroni
hamper, Picnic £30, Littlewoods
46, Picnicware £25, Tesco funky Teatime flower picnic
hamper, £39.95, Dotcomgiftshop
Hawaiian Pink picnic hamper
for 4, £39.95, Dotcomgiftshop
picnic Strawberry hamper for 4,
£35, BHS
backpack, Picnic £44.95,
GettingPersonal. co.uk
Vintage Optima Collection – Blyton Picnic Tin, £85, Prezzybox.com
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
37
Movin’... lifestyle
HOMEstyle Whether it’s small, large, green or urban, make the most of your garden this summer with these fabulous style solutions for any outside space
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
3-piece Bistro set, Richmond £50, Tesco Direct
38
set Wicker-effect 3-piece, Bistro £34.99, Wilkinson
lanterns, from £7.99, Morroccan HomeSense table, £20/Chairs, £15 Metal each, Matalan bench, £50, Tesco Hardwood Direct Capri 6-piece Garden Green Furniture Set, £119 , Littlewoods
Movin’... lifestyle
cast iron birdbath, Antique £34.99, Hidden Eden Limited tealight holder, Hanging £6.50, Also Home seat pads, Summer £5.99 each, Dunelm Mill of six white lanterns, £19.99, Set The Contemporary Home
thermometer, £16.99, Cream The Contemporary Home floral garden accessories, Blue/white from £9.99, HomeSense glass lantern, £15/Wax bucket, Tall £2/Silver lantern, £5/Insect lantern, £2/Meadow wax-filled glass, £2, Matalan
cushions, Outdoor £9.99, HomeSense bee log, Pollenating £14.99, Green Stamp
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
39
Movin’... lifestyle
Movin’ on the web... This issue, we’ve delved into the world of online music to find the top 10 online music websites. All of these sites are compl etely legal so you can be sure that you’re listening to your favourite music in the fairest way!
With simple software, you’ll be singing along to the song of your choice within seconds via their huge music database. Unbelievably quick and astonishingly large, Spotify’s range of music has no restrictions and is completely free and legal. Spotify is funded by advertising but they’re barely noticeable, popping up only once every half an hour for a few seconds.
imeem is a social networking site that allows its users to discover, interact and express themselves through media, and to form connections based on their shared tastes and interests. Their focus is on bringing fans of the same music together to make a community where they can share their favourite music, videos and photos.
Macidol was set up to provide those musicians who own an Apple Mac with a place to upload and share their music. Their aim is to give users a custom-built website to promote their recordings and to hopefully build a career. There are some great tracks to listen to on there, and if you’re a budding musician, why not give it a try.
Music.com focuses more on music videos, and we must say that we were very impressed with this site. Within seconds you can be watching your favourite band’s new video and the videos themselves are of excellent quality. This slick website offers millions of music videos for free at the click of a mouse. 40
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
Movin’... lifestyle Just like your favourite radio station, Jango plays only your preferred genre of music. But you won’t be listening to the same music over and over again; it’ll play songs you may not have heard previously but within the same genre, meaning you don’t have to trail all over the web just to find new music!
Omnifone’s MusicStation is bridging the ever-decreasing gap between mobile phones and the internet. For a small monthly fee through your phone provider, you can use this specially designed software to listen to music through your phone, making your favourite music truly mobile.
Last.fm is an online radio station with a twist: you can listen to music while supporting and promoting your favourite artist(s) by talking about them or tagging them. The process works on the popularity of artists, so the more you talk about your favourite music, the more likely other people will hear it too.
Cloudtrade operates through your mobile phone, allowing you to share your interests with other users via your own ‘cloud’. Cloudtrade’s mission is to offer free anytime, anywhere access to your personal content through a platform that easily and legally lets you share with your friends.
You’ll recognise the way that Grooveshark works if you’re familiar with iPods. Fantastically easy to use and with no downloads needed, Grooveshark is a great way to have music at your fingertips without keeping music files on your computer.
RCRD LBL believes artists should be paid for their music, so they (and other record labels) fund bands to make music that they can then distribute for free. They finance themselves via advertising and sponsorship, which we think is a great business model – supporting musicians while making music free. July–August 2009 | Issue 3
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Movin’... lifestyle
Movin’... Green BIN TODAY ORDER YOUR Feed your bin, not landFill – why compost at home? Do your bit to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill. By composting at home you can recycle a third of your waste and put less out for collection.
home composting, organic waste sent to landfill can’t decompose properly because, squashed under all the other waste, it doesn’t have any access to air. So instead methane, a powerful
greenhouse gas is produced which contributes to global warming. Home composting avoids this problem and you create a valuable natural soil improver for your plants and vegetables.
Composting is an inexpensive, natural process that transforms your kitchen and garden waste into a valuable and nutrient rich food for your garden. It’s easy to make and even easier to use. And did you know, composting at home for just one year can save global warming gases equivalent to all the CO2 your kettle produces annually, or your washing machine produces in 3 months! We’re often asked “Why do I need to compost when my waste will break down in landfill anyway?” But the two situations are quite different. Unlike
compost more stuFF, more oFten A lot of people think that garden waste is the only thing that you can put in your compost bin. But there are actually loads more everyday waste items from your home and garden that you can add to enrich your compost. In fact, over 30% of an average household bin can be composted at home. This all adds up and an average household can expect to divert over 150kg of waste from landfill each year – that’s equivalent in weight to a baby elephant!
‘GReeNS’
• Tea bags • Grass cuttings • Vegetable peelings, salad leaves and fruit scraps
• Old flowers and nettles • Coffee grounds and filter paper
• Spent bedding plants • Rhubarb leaves • Young annual weeds (e.g. chickweed)
• Corrugated cardboard and paper (scrunched up) • Toilet and kitchen roll tubes • Garden prunings • Dry leaves, twigs and hedge clippings • Straw and hay • Bedding from vegetarian pets • Ashes from wood, paper and lumpwood charcoal • Sawdust and wood chippings • Wool
• Woody clippings • Cotton threads and string (made from natural fibre) • Feathers • Vacuum bag contents • Old natural fibre clothes (cut into small pieces) • Tissues, paper towels and napkins • Shredded confidential documents • Corn cobs and stalks
‘BROWNS’ • Crushed egg shells • Egg and cereal boxes
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July–August 2009 | Issue 3
Movin’... lifestyle
Composting is easy a step by step guide 3. Fill it up Empty your kitchen caddy along with your garden waste into your compost bin. A 50/50 mix of greens and browns (see previous page) is the perfect recipe for good compost.
6. Collect the compost Lift the bin
1. Find the right site Ideally site your compost bin in the garden on bare soil. If you have to put your compost bin on concrete, tarmac or patio slabs, ensure there’s a layer of soil or existing compost on the bottom so the worms can colonise.
make composting at home even easier Order a handy kitchen caddy
4. Sit back and relax It takes between six to
slightly or open the hatch at the bottom and scoop out the fresh compost with a garden fork or spade.
nine months for your compost to become ready for use, so now all you need to do is sit back and wait.
order your bin online
5. Ready for use
Simply visit;
Once your compost has turned into a crumbly, dark material, resembling thick, moist soil and gives off an earthy, fresh aroma, you know it’s ready to use.
www.recyclenow.com/ compost
7. Use it 2. Add the right ingredients Fill your kitchen caddy with everything from vegetable and fruit peelings to teabags, paper towels and eggshells. Take care not to compost cooked food, meat or fish.
Don’t worry if your compost looks a little lumpy with twigs and bits of eggshells – this is perfectly normal. Use it to enrich borders and vegetable patches, plant up patio containers or feed the lawn.
Also find useful info, tips and advice to make composting easy and fun.
Need to bUy extRa CompoSt? Make sure you choose peat-free, with recycled materials – it’s a greener way to garden. For more information visit; www.recyclenow.com/garden July–August 2009 | Issue 3
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Movin’... lifestyle
Movin'... in the kitchen
For lovers of fish dishes, our resident chef, Ian Robinson, from The Crazy Catering Company, brings you his Crazy Crab and Prawn Bites recipe. It’s full of fresh flavours, with zesty lemon and a fresh aroma of coriander, combined with crab meat and spicy prawns. Serve it on a refreshing bed of wild rocket and shaved parmesan cheese, and why not top it off with a balsamic glaze to give it that extra kick!
Crazy Crab & Prawn Bites • • • • • • • • • • • • •
44
350gm/12oz white crab meat 150gm/5oz white skinless & boneless fish fillet i .e . cod or haddock 150gm/5oz cooked peeled prawns 3 cloves of chopped fresh garlic 2 tbsps of Reggae Reggae sauce 1 medium egg, beaten 1 fresh , chopped red or green chilli 4 spring onions 1 squeezed fresh lemon 3 tbsps chopped coriander 1 bag of wild rocket 1 tub of shaved parmesan Balsamic glaze
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
Method 1. Squeeze all of the water out of your crab meat. If you can buy blue swimming crab meat in tubs from the supermarket, this will give you an enhanced flavour and texture. 2. Chop all of your boneless fish fillets into chunks. Add prawns with fresh garlic, salt, black pepper and Reggae Reggae sauce. Blend for a few seconds until you form a rough paste. 3. Add your dry crab meat and egg to the mixture in a food processor and blend for a few seconds. Then remove the mixture and place into a bowl with egg, freshly chopped chillis, coriander and freshly squeezed lemon. 4. Now the fun bit! Pat the mixture in the palm of your hands and shape into small fishcakesized portions. If they’re a bit sticky, just coat in a little seasoned flour to shape better. Ideally, you’re trying to make 8 x 8cm (3 inch) bites. When shaped, brush with olive oil. 5. Pan fry the shaped mixture in olive oil on both sides for 2–4 minutes, or until golden brown. 6. Serve on a bed of fresh wild rocket, sprinkle with shaved parmesan cheese, then drizzle with balsamic glaze. Did you have a go at this recipe? Why not send a photo to us at editor@movinmagazine.com
Look out for more recipes from The Crazy Catering Company coming next issue!
Movin’... lifestyle The Crazy Catering Company’s ‘Big Pan Experience’
Win an Ultimate Dining Experience worth £200! The Crazy Catering Company, based in Appleton, would like to offer readers of Movin’ Magazine an exclusive Ultimate Dining Experience – dinner for two cooked at your own home by one of their professional experienced chefs! The Crazy Catering Company offers the ultimate fresh dining experience at your home or chosen venue all year round – indoors and outdoors. With their amazing ‘Big Pan Experience’ and renowned hog roasts, private dinner parties, complimented by fantastic chef’s carveries and barbeques, they can easily cater for numbers ranging from 2 to 5000 people. Check out their menus and prices at www.thecrazyhog.co.uk, or simply call 0871 423 7127. To enter the competition, simply visit our website at www.movinmagazine.com and answer this question:
From which country does paella originate? The closing date is Friday 21 August 2009.
Subject to availability, no cash alternative
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
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Movin’... lifestyle
Movin’... Having just returned from the resort, Andrea Wren, travel expert and owner of internet-based luxury travel consultancy, Wren Elite Travel, tells us why Carcassonne makes for the perfect weekend break.
With its seemingly impenetrable status, the medieval cité of Carcassonne looms from an elevated hilltop position, conjuring up imagery of times gone by. As marvellous as it is, Carcassonne is still something of a hidden secret to UK tourists; yet this beautiful destination in the south of France was made famous after the publication of Kate Mosse’s novel, Labyrinth. And Labyrinth was, in fact, the inspiration behind my recent visit to Carcassonne. While fictional, there is much historical accuracy with regard to the Holy Inquisition and the persecution of the Cathars, who made up the inhabitants of Carcassonne in the 12th Century. It would be impossible not to be impressed; the medieval fortress, which in the past has both protected its inhabitants from invasion and acted as a prison, is the biggest draw and forms one of the best preserved walled cities in the world. Approaching la cité from the Pont Vieux on foot, the vision before you is breathtaking – and once inside the cité walls, you can be assured of a wondrous exploration of original buildings and streets.
The newer part of the city, or the Ville Bastide, is a perfectly pleasant place in which to wander, with its selection of delicious patisseries, as well as being flanked by the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Canal du Midi. You can easily while away a few hours sitting in the Plaza Carnet drinking coffee, spending some time shopping or taking a relaxing boat ride out on the canal. Carcassonne has plenty on offer for a delightful, long weekend break but it can also act as a base to explore the Languedoc-Roussillon region generally, with cities like Toulouse and Montpellier not far away. As well as city breaks, there are also some splendid escorted tours to Carcassonne, normally taking in Albi as well. As for resting your head, while there’s a huge range of accommodation in which to stay both in and out of the walled city, it’s worth treating yourself to a couple of
nights in the famous and luxurious Orient Express Hotel de la Cité (and if opting for an escorted tour, Kirker holidays have an option with stays at the Hotel de la Cité). Located right inside the city walls, the hotel houses rooms that are beautiful, a service and attention from the staff that is second to none, and a breakfast from the hotel’s restaurant, Saskia’s, that is one of the best I’ve ever tasted. The hotel also provides some peaceful respite from the tourist madness that can overcome the walled city in the height of summer! For those who would like a quick getaway in this very pretty part of France, Carcassonne undoubtedly makes for the perfect weekend break. Wren Elite Travel can offer escorted tours and tailor-made city breaks to Carcassonne. Wren Elite Travel is an internet-based, independent luxury travel consultancy offering luxury worldwide holidays, city breaks, safari, adventure travel and honeymoons, as well as tailor-made and customised travel. See www.wrenelitetravel.co.uk, email enquiries@wrenelitetravel.co.uk or call 0845 475 0342 to discuss your holiday arrangements
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
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Movin’... lifestyle
31 Dream Street by Lisa Jewell
10 Reasons Not To Fall In Love by Linda Green The title of the book doesn’t do this story justice, and the depth of the text was an unexpected and pleasant surprise. You get completely drawn into Jo and Dan’s lives; the chapters where you read about Dan’s childhood are shocking and emotional, and the one thing that struck us was how accurately the writer could describe how a six-yearold thinks and talks. The writer is very witty and her sense of humour made us laugh out loud many times. The journey that Jo, her son Alfie and Dan go through, will have you enthralled to the very end. Also, it’s set in and around Manchester, which made a refreshing change from London. We would recommend this title to anyone and we can’t wait for her next book. By far, this is the best read we’ve had in a long time – and we read a lot!
If this book doesn’t become a film one day, we’ll be shocked. It’s a fantastically woven tale of the lives of the inhabitants of Peacock House, owned by Toby, overlooked by Leah and recently left by Gus, who turns both their lives around. This is a beautifully written book that really draws the reader into the lives of the main characters, and by the end of the book we were genuinely caught up in a desire for happy endings for all of them. It’s a really refreshing angle for the lead character of a Chick-Lit title to be a man. Though not overly sentimental, there is much poignant soul-searching for all of the characters involved, and the author carefully handles the twists and turns of their lives with grace. The feeling that we really care about what the future holds for Con and Daisy, Melinda and Ja, and of course Toby and Leah, has stayed with us since we turned the last page. Thank you, Lisa.
COMPETITION This issue, Borders are giving away copies of both of the books in this issue’s review. All you need to do to be in with a chance of winning is to answer the following question:
Who played Linda Green in the classic BBC drama ‘Linda Green’? Visit www.movinmagazine.com and fill out the form, along with your answer. Closing date is 10 August 2009, when the winner will be drawn at random from the entries received. Good luck!
C a l e n d a r Saturday 11 July, 11am–3pm Author, Rosalie Marsh, will be instore signing copies of her new book, Just Us Two Monday 13 July, 6pm 14yrs+ Book Group Discussing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by JK Rowling Tuesday 14 July, 7pm Chick-Lit Book Group Discussing The Beach House by Jane Green Wednesday 22 July, 9.30am Author, Paul Henke, will be instore signing copies of his new book, The Seventh Circle Sunday 26 July, 4.30pm World famous author, Jeffery Deaver, will be instore doing an informal signing of his new book, Roadside Crosses For more information, go to www.borders.warrington.co.uk
Last issue’s winner was Karen Wilkinson, who correctly answered ‘Incendiary’. Well done Karen – your £15 Borders Gift Card is in the post!
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
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www.shannonstrust.org.uk www.j-u-m-p.org
w w w. p e t e p i n n i n g t o n . c o . u k
Wire FM’s longest-serving presenter gives us his views and discusses what’s on in Warrington
Hi there! In the last issue, I mentioned that I was training for the Manchester 10K run. Well, I’m pleased to say that I completed it in 1 hour 6 minutes, but more importantly, I finished without stopping once! Well done if you took part also. If it’s given you the running bug then why not sign up for the next step in life’s challenges – a half marathon?
WARRINGTON HOSTS ITS FIRST HALF MARATHON! On Sunday 4 October, Warrington will play host to the New Balance English Half Marathon. The marathon’s also called The People’s Challenge because they want everyone to get involved. That includes runners of all abilities – elite, club and charity runners, and especially first-time runners! After all, this is the first half marathon in Warrington!
Starting in Victoria Park, the route will head away from the town centre to the scenic countryside around south Warrington, taking in the beautiful villages, before finally returning to Victoria Park. If you would like to run for charities such as St Rocco’s Hospice and Opening Doors as well as others, you can sign up and find out further details by visiting the marathon’s website at www.english-half.co.uk 50
July–August 2009 | Issue 3
There are loads of local charities that would appreciate you running for them as well, such as The Shannon Bradshaw Trust, J-U-M-P and Warrington Disability Partnership. All of our local charities could gain so much if we all signed up and ran for them! The day before (3 October), there’s a 1-mile ‘Fun Run’ within Victoria Park for the kids to take part in too. PETE’S PAUSE FOR THOUGHT I took my baby son Jake on his first family holiday abroad recently. What an experience! During the week, I noticed that there were mainly women bathing in the sun. Their partners, babies and buggies were nowhere to be seen. So I decided to go and investigate; I put my son Jake in the buggy and told Sarah I’m off for a wander so that I could walk Jake to sleep. Once I got to the high street I was amazed to see mainly dads and their buggies walking up and down! After walking for half an hour, I came up to a bar with at least 15 buggies parked up and dads inside with pints of lager! So I parked up and one of the dad’s asked me how long before my son was asleep, to which I replied 20 minutes. He then shouted “Get this lad a drink!” I must have stayed drinking for nearly two hours with them! When I got back to the pool area, Sarah asked “How come you’ve been gone for so long?”, to which I replied “Oh, it took ages to get Jake to sleep”. Now I can see why dads enjoy doing the lonely buggy walks on holiday!
Listen to Pete Weekdays Saturdays 3–7pm 10am–2pm
Pete’s Calendar... 2009’s Stockton Heath Festival is going to be even bigger than before. From Thursday 9 July to Sunday 12 July, there’s plenty of culture, comedy, art, music and drama for the whole family to enjoy! Go to www.stocktonheathfestival.co.uk for more info and tickets. If you love live music, the Warrington Music Festival on Saturday 11 July is for you! Taking place in Queens Gardens, Palmyra Square from 11.30am to 7.30pm, you’ll get to see over thirty bands performing live. There’s also the Urban Karaoke MC tent, a licensed bar, PLUS I’ll be hosting on the day! For more details go to www. myspace.com/warringtonmusicfestival The Warrington Youth Festival will take place in Queens Gardens, Palmyra Square from 12 to 5.30pm on Sunday 12 July. Featuring the country’s most prolific professional BMX/skateboard display team, Team Extreme, you’ll be able to go along, get padded up and learn from the professionals! Other attractions include extreme martial arts tricking, street acrobatics, free running and live music. The Warrington Disability Partnership (WDP) invites you to their hugely popular Disability Awareness Day (DAD) at Walton Hall & Gardens from 10am to 5pm on Sunday 12 July. DAD is an annual, independent, living exhibition and a family funday rolled into one! Wire FM and I will be broadcasting LIVE again from DAD this year so we look forward to seeing you on the day! Find out more at www.disabilityawarenessday.org.uk or call the WDP on 01925 240 064. To find out more about local events don’t forget that you can listen to me on 107.2 Wire FM, weekdays from 3 to 7pm and Saturdays 10am to 2pm. Visit my website too at www.petepinnington.co.uk
ding!
Thanks for rea Pete
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