Mature Living February 2013

PROMOTING A HEALTHY & POSITIVE LIFESTYLE February 2013

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE OLDER, BOLDER INDIVIDUAL

9 symptoms you should never ignore What is hearing loss?

Europe’s secret unsung cities Knitting, it’s the new yoga 7 popular excuses vets get from pet owners

Standing for equality and fairness

A Stay with Dinner, Wine and Cocktails in Westport!

• SLIGO • MAYO • GALWAY • LEITRIM • ROSCOMMON

Contents

www.matureliving.ie

February 2013

19

22 27 26

E

VEN though the weather is still a bit chilly Spring is in the air and this time of year always gives us a feeling of hope. In a few weeks we will have a new leader in Rome who might revitalise a troubled Catholic Church. Due to the new deal on the Promissionary Notes the Government, hopefully, will have more money at their disposal and, consequently, make life a bit easier for senior citizens and others in need of basic welfare.

We were delighted, in recent weeks, to be given the opportunity to talk to many members of Active Retirement Associations from around the country when they attended a weekend gathering at Sligo’s Radisson Blu Hotel, Sligo. While enjoying the many delights the Yeats county had to offer, these groups were loud in their praise for our publication and we hope they will include us in their monthly reading schedule from now on. It was wonderful to see so many couples, in particular, really enjoying themselves and looking forward to returning at the earliest opportunity.

Many of these groups will be given such an opportunity early in May 2013 when Mature Living will host its second Mature Living exhibition, this time in Sligo. Our last exhibition held in Castlebar in September 2013 was a resounding success and it is onwards and upwards with this project as far as we are concerned.

This month’s issue has much to offer. In addition to including highlights and pictures of the Radisson Blu weekend on pages 8 and 9 we have a diverse range of stories and advice articles. We provide some top tips for people wishing to get healthy over the age of 50 and highlight some useful advice for those who may be suffering from hearing loss. On page 37 you will find some seasonal gardening advice and some mouth-watering recipes can be found on pages 28 and 29. We also provide some computer maintenance basics for those who wish to solve such problems themselves.

In our Travel section we explore some relatively unknown cities in Europe and for those wishing to maintain good health (and who doesn’t?) we highlight some symptoms that should never be ignored.

We offer our congratulations to James and Sonya Hamill and all of the team at Blue Apple Dental, Fermanagh, on obtaining the accolade of Best Dental Practice, 2013. You can be secure in the knowledge you will receive only the best possible treatment when you use the services of this award-winning team.

Our One-on-One this month features Sligo County Council Cathaoirleach, Veronica Cawley, who has never flinched in her quest for equality and fairness for those who she represents.

Her views and aspirations make for interesting reading.

So, we certainly hope you enjoy this month’s publication. If you would like to contact us about any aspect of Mature Living, or wish to take out a Subscription contact us at our offices in Sligo or Ballina. Our next issue will be available early in March and deadline for submissions is 2nd March, 2013.

News Sligo’s Radisson Blu plays host to Active Retirement groups One-on-One with Veronica Cawley Competition Blue Apple Dental Inheritance Tax Planning Yeats Country Antiques For all your travel needs...

The Gathering 2013 Knitting, It's The New Yoga The Bands of our Showband Era Europe’s Secret unsung cities Food and Drink 7 popular excuses vets get from pet owners Computer maintenance basics 9 symptoms you should never ignore Top 10 tips to get healthy at 50+ Golden Escapes Caring for the Elderly Motoring Gardening Hotel Directory Spot the Ball Services Directory

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10 12 14 15 16 18 19 22 24 26 28 30 31 32 34 35 37 38 39 40 42 44

Seamus Casey - Editor Editor: Seamus Casey seamus@matureliving.ie Advertising: Lisa Gilmartin lisa@matureliving.ie Production & Design: Stephen Finney steve@matureliving.ie

Published by: IBS Publishing Riverview House, Barrett Street, Ballina, Co. Mayo and Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo.

Tel/Fax: 071-9154538 / 096-77743 Web: www.matureliving.ie • Email: info@matureliving.ie

The information in Mature Living is carefully researched and believed to be accurate, but the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors or omissions. Statements or opinions expressed herein are not necessary those of the editor or publisher. Advertisements within the publication are not endorsed by the publisher. Neither are any claims made within the advertisements. Before consuming any products mentioned in the publication readers are advised to consult with their general practitioner or equivalent professional for opinion or advice.

News

Secret to good relationships revealed

I

f you want to make your partner feel loved and appreciated carry out a random act of kindness, such as bringing them tea in bed, and try not to snore or eat noisily.

UK scientists are carrying out a major two-year study into relationships in the 21st century and interim results reveal that in the current recession, couples are working hard to stay together.

Over 4,200 people in long-term

relationships are taking part and the results show that simple gestures, random acts of kindness and saying ‘thank you' all go a long way in making people feel loved.

However, plenty of people admit to also being irritated by their partners, with snoring, noisy eating and even badly stacking the dishwasher high up on the list.

The findings show that mothers tend to be more negative about the

quality of their relationship than women without children. However overall, mothers are significantly happier with their lives than any other group, suggesting that children are the primary source of happiness for women.

Furthermore, while fathers are more likely to describe their partners as the most important person in their lives, mothers are more likely to say that their children are the most important.

The study also shows that gay couples tend to be happier with their relationships than heterosexual couples.

Meanwhile, sharing beliefs and interests is also considered very important by many people. In fact, having things in common is seen as ‘a key connector in the relationship', the scientists explained.

The study also asked whether a stressful event in the last two years, such as a bereavement or a redundancy, had adversely impacted the relationship.

However, the results indicate that such events actually cause people to pull together and work through the difficult times.

The study by the Open University is due to finish in September of this year.

Age-related vision loss 'not inevitable' A loss of vision is no longer an inevitable part of the ageing process, the International Federation of Ageing (IFA) has claimed.

It has just published a new report, The High Cost of Low Vision, which emphasises that people can now grow older with strong vision, thanks in part to advances in medicine, technology and nutrition.

However, the report also points out that more awareness of this issue is needed and the number of people with vision problems will rise significantly if preventative measures are not put in place.

Currently, around 285 million people worldwide are visually impaired, including 39 million people who are classified as completely blind.

The report calls for more public education programmes, better public policies and more integration of preventative eye health interventions into public health services.

"The economic implications are huge as we now have it in our grasp to delink vision loss from ageing, which will have great impact on active, productive and more enjoyable ageing. This shift in the traditional perception of ageing is truly transformative," insisted IFA

secretary general, Jane Barratt.

Commenting on the report, Siobhan Kelly, CEO of the Irish College of Ophthalmologists (ICO), said that it ‘acts as a timely reminder that action is needed to drive awareness among the public and healthcare policy makers of solutions for preventable vision loss, which will ultimately serve to have positive social and economic consequences'.

A 2011 report by the National Council of the Blind estimated that there were almost 225,000 people with visual impairment in Ireland in 2010. This figure was projected to rise to almost 272,000 by 2020 - an increase of 21%.

In financial terms, visual impairment cost the State €386 million in 2010. This was projected to rise to €449 million by 2020.

"This report reinforces the positive message to the public that over half of the causes of sight loss are preventable with early diagnosis and treatment. With our ageing population, it is imperative that investment is made in preventative eye healthcare if we are to avoid an unnecessary over burdening and future dependency on our healthcare services," Ms Kelly said.

Meanwhile, also commenting on the report, eye surgeon and ICO

Page 4 Mature Living February 2013

president, Ms Patricia Logan, pointed out that eye doctors and policy makers have ‘an ethical responsibility to provide patients with the best health service based on the latest medical advancements and care'.

"It makes absolute long-term economic and social wellbeing sense to put resources and investment in place to ensure we don't reach epidemic eye health problems in the future that could have been avoided," she added.

Keith - 085-1053588 / 071-9310787

FREE (BER)

with every house insulated this month (with this advert)

Burglaries soar in area where 10 stations closed A rural area where 10 garda stations recently closed has seen a 16pc increase in house burglaries over the past year.

Crime figures for Co. Galway, where 10 of the 100 garda station closures have taken place, show a big increase in burglaries and in drug seizures.

The figures are for the rural part of Co Galway and cover an area where Justice Minister Alan Shatter recently announced the closure of stations at Kilconly, Ballymoe, Menlough, New Inn, Kiltulla, Leenane, Tynagh, Shanaglish, Kilchreest and Kilcolgan. And while the overall crime figures show a decrease of almost 10pc, the big increase in house burglaries in rural areas has alarmed people, according to local representatives.

However, senior gardai said that in line with the rest of the country the number of burglaries had started to fall in the last quarter of 2012 as a result of Operation Fiacla, the nationwide crackdown on travelling gangs responsible for a large portion of the break-ins.

Feature with Máire Kelly-Moore of Kelly’s Hair & Beauty Salon

Meet the wedding experts...

T

ake the stress and hassle out of your Big Day and let Kelly’s Hair & Beauty Team organise your complete Hair, Make-up & Nails package for your big day.

Kelly’s Hair & Beauty Salon is synonymous with providing the perfect Bridal package from that specially designed bridal up-style to the prefect blow-dry for the mother of the bride & any other guests on the list.

Located on Castle Street, Castlebar, Kelly’s Hair & Beauty Family ruined Business celebrated 80 years in the hair dressing industry November last.

she recently attended an Upstyling seminar by American Stylist Manual Rodriguez & encourages all her professional team to continually excel their hairdressing knowledge.

Máire, is joined by her son Cian & daughter Amy, who are the fourth generation in the family run business who both graduated from Award winning Best Intercoiffure Continental Academy, MOHH Hairdressing Academy last year.

Her daughter Amy Grab the tile “Student of the Year” with her passion for hair & Customer Service. Cian had the opportunity to train in the American International Institute of Cosmetology with Italian World Class Hairdresser Tindaro Orifici & worked styling back stage on American TV channel CNN.

Salon owner, Máire Kelly-Moore trained & worked in all area of hairdressing industry from a very young age, has plenty of experience when it comes to Wedding & Bridal expertise & is her skills are often called upon for fashions shows & photo-shoots.

Amy & Cian have worked styling on many photo shoots from Catwalk Model Agency’s Shoots to Bridal shoots are to name but a few & are continually updated there portfolio by attend courses around the country, Both have a passion for Competition work & have competed in the OMC World best Hairdresser 2012.

Kelly’s Hair & Beauty Award Winning Salon is based over two floors & has an outstanding reputation for a Welcoming Atmosphere & Character, First Class Services, Superior On-Trend Cuts & ReStyles, Masters in Stunning Colours & Colour-Corrections, Enriching Treatment, Make-Up Specialists Colour-MeBeautiful Consultants, Ear-Piecing & Brow Shaping Technicians to name but a few, along with being Professional Wedding hair experts. The Salon is the proud recipients of Vodafone Business Award 2006, Schwarzkopf Customer Care Award

Maire’s aim is to provide exceptional service to her clients & work closely with them to ensure that the preparation for the big day runs as smoothly as possible and to create a unique and classic look that embodies the bride's individual style and personality.

Máire, continually updates & refreshes her skills & knowledge in the industry,

2007 & the third overall Hairdresser of the year 2007. The Salon also houses a Nail Bar that provides a nail care line, Orly Gel FX, designed to Beautify, Strengthen & Repair nails.

Kelly’s Hair & Beauty Team provide trail Wedding services & strongly recommend having a session booked two months or more in advance of your wedding.

A trial helps you decide what style may suit you best, up or down, to the side or all back, whether you would like a veil or a tiara or maybe fresh flowers would suit you best.

The Team at Kelly’s will take this time to help you make your decision in your trial session.

During the trial the Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist will spend the time needed going through all your requirements for your wedding and trying out different looks until you are 100% happy.

They will also advise you on the best way to schedule all the events on the run up to and the morning of the wedding and can advise on hair accessories.

If you require both Hair and Makeup Services for your wedding you can request a trial for your hair and makeup together to see the overall look.

The Salon also has intertwining rooms that provide plenty of privacy & relaxed atmosphere on the morning of the wedding for the Bridal Party & can sit back & relax with a book or use the free Wi-Fi, whilst being pampered to perfection with a complimentary glass of chilled champagne on their big day.

The stylist will re-created your chosen hairstyle from your trial, fitting tiara, hair jewelery, flowers, accessories or veil to the hair, whilst she begins to enjoy the start of her special day.

Máire’s Top Tips for your Special day • Invest in professional recommended product to suit your hair type at least 4months before you big day.

This will get you moving in the right direction especially if the hair is damaged, lacks shine or is very limp. Also this is the best time to start thinking and talking about a trim.

• If you’re not fully happy with your trial, never be afraid to express any concerns you have.

Always expect the best service as that’s what you’re paying for and your hairdresser should be very open and always helpful.

• Magazine & the internet are great to

communicate any ideas you have with your stylist.

• When you’re having your trial done make sure you bring your veil, headpiece, etc with you.

This is very important as it will give you the finished look, giving you the time to makes any changes that may be need before the big day.

• I would always advise having your colour done at least a week to 10 days (depending on your colour) before your wedding day to allow your colour to settle.

Máire & her professional team not only focus on hair but strive to maintain the highest customer satisfaction & create a truly VIP experience for all clients regular & new.

All the team at Kelly’s have been trained to the highest standard of professional hairdressing & service & are there to tailor make a look that makes every Bride shine on her big day.

Kelly’s Hair & Beauty Salon provide a total head-to-toe package, and with parking just across the Street.

Brides have the convenience of having hair, Make-Up & Nails all under one roof!

We like to make people look and feel amazing, working with and getting to know our clients, so together we can create the perfect cut or hair creation for your special day.

If you think you could benefit from a one-to-one consultation with me or any of my team we would be delighted to hear from you.

The Motto at Kelly’s Hair & Beauty Salon is “Never say Never”, we are always willing to accommodate unannounced clients & will happily work to fit the schedules of clients with a busy lifestyle.

Kelly’s Hair & Beauty Salon Business hours: Mon-Wed: 9.00am-6.00pm Thur: 8.30am-6.30pm Fri: 8.30am-7.00pm Sat: 8.00am-6.00pm Sun: Appointments on request All later appointments Monday to Friday will be catered for.

Tel: 094-9022973

Page 5 Mature Living February 2013

News

Body and Forgetting for The Model, Sligo

?

Ageing Strategy on the cusp of delivery OLDER & Bolder met with Minister Kathleen Lynch who told them that the National Positive Ageing Strategy will be published in the coming weeks. Older & Bolder Director, Patricia Conboy said, “Older & Bolder welcomes the imminent publication of the National Positive Ageing Strategy. Minister Kathleen Lynch informed us that the strategy has been signed off by the Cabinet Committee on Social Policy. It is now en route to Government and we anticipate that it will be published in the coming weeks”. Patricia Conboy continued, “The imminent production of the strategy is good news. Older & Bolder with the support of older people around the country have campaigned for six long years for the

publication of a National Positive Ageing Strategy. This campaign has been sustained through two Programmes for Government and over the tenure of three Ministers for Older People. We commend Minister Lynch for bringing energy and impetus to the delivery of this long awaited strategy”.

“The publication of the National Positive Ageing Strategy will be very important. Older people have told us in repeated consultations that the right kind of planning, information and supports make the crucial difference between independence and dependence for older people.

An effective National Positive Ageing Strategy has the potential to improve older people’s quality of life”.

Mayo Sligo CO-OP Mart 19th February 2013

SPECIAL “ERRIS DAY SALE” FOR U & R GRADE WEANLINGS In Conjunction with usual Sales BULLOCKS, HEIFERS & WEANLINGS, SPRINGERS, CULL COWS AND SHEEP email: ballina@auctionmarts.com web: www.mayosligomart.com

Crossmolina Road, Ballina, Co. Mayo

Pre Booking: 096-22555

Collooney Active retirement Group Safety in the Home Evening

Liz Roche Company, one of Ireland’s leading contemporary dance companies, is delighted to be bringing a new full-length dance production Body and Forgetting to Sligo on February 16th as part of a national tour. This follows the original work’s two sell-out performances at Dublin Dance Festival last May. “An impressive multi-layered meditation on memory and identity” was how The Irish Times described the first showing of Body and Forgetting at the festival, while Dance in Dublin declared it "an exquisite elegy to the broken, stuttering and insistent memories that form the backdrop to our lives.”

Following its premiere at The Abbey Theatre at the end of January, the full-length Body and Forgetting will then be performed at DanceXchange Birmingham Hippodrome, UK prior to the Irish tour to Longford, Sligo, Cork and Kilkenny.

Emotionally powerful and haunting, Liz Roche's choreography interacts with a film piece by Alan Gilsenan and with Denis Roche's live score. Inspired by Milan Kundera's The Book of Laughter and Forgetting, the company of remarkable dancers find their way through delicately woven circumstances of disappearance, loss, relationship and hope in this atmospheric work.

Liz Roche says of the genesis of Body and Forgetting, “I began looking at the writings of Milan Kundera and was particularly interested in his stories of disappearance and memory, and how he portrays the complexities of loss and betrayal.

I was clear that I wanted the live dancing to be in response to a fixed film, so I could then play with the past, present and future possibilities. I was aware of the nature in which Alan Gilsenan makes his work and the emphasis he places on time. For me, he brought new perspectives to my lines of questioning and reinforced the humanity within the movement and the dancers.

I worked with the dancers finding ways to make movement based on texts they wrote themselves about what they ‘regretted not saying to someone at a pivotal time in their lives.’ In a way through the dance they could rewrite and therefore reclaim their past.

I knew that I wanted the music to be performed live so I asked Denis Roche if he would play. As he is my brother, I know his affinity with the guitar and remember the almost constant sound of an electric guitar in our house growing up! I wanted to have that sound as the backdrop to this piece. Somehow it was important, in this instance to bring my own memories into the piece.”

PERFORMANCE AND TICKET DETAILS: Body & Forgetting is 60 minutes long (with no interval). The performance contains nudity.

Page 6 Mature Living February 2013

The Model Sligo Saturday 16th February, 8pm Booking: + 353 (0) 71 9141405 | http://themodel.ie/ Prices: €12 / €10 concession

Feature by Joseph Browne of Galway Hearing Care

What is hearing loss?

H

earing loss exists when there is diminished sensitivity to the sounds normally heard by others.

The terms hearing impairment or hard of hearing are usually reserved for people who have relative insensitivity to sound in the speech frequencies. The severity of a hearing loss is categorised according to the increase in volume above the usual level necessary before the listener can detect it. Typically, the more significant the loss, the more challenging it is to communicate with the world around you. However, even mild loss can significantly impact your daily life.

Generally speaking, hearing loss is usually addressed by one of several treatment options. The solution that is right for you will depend on a number of factors, starting with the type of hearing loss you have — conductive or sensorineural -- and whether it can be treated medically or with the use of amplification.

media (fluid behind the eardrum) • Perforations of the eardrum • Otosclerosis (a stiffening of the bones in the middle ear)

What you can do?

Most outer and middle ear problems may be treated with medication or surgery.

Sometimes the hearing loss is permanent. If this is the case, a hearing aid can usually help.

Inner ear

Symptoms SNHL has a variety of configurations and degrees of loss that can impact each listener differently. Some SNHL can be flat, with the loss relatively the same across all frequencies. Most often, SNHL hearing loss can be treated successfully with hearing aids. However, a thorough ear examination and customised treatment plan is vital. There are many different causes for this type of hearing loss, and the severity and configuration of the loss can impact outcomes.

Outer ear

• Common problems • Damage to the fine hair cells, called the cilia • Natural aging process • Loud noise exposure (instant or over time) • Some types of medication • Skull fractures.

Common problems (conductive losses) • Excessive earwax and earwax plugs • Ear infections (otitis externa) • Foreign bodies • Congenital malformations of the ear or canal What you can do?

Consult with your Audiologist to talk about treatments. Typically these types of hearing losses may be treated medically or surgically. Hearing loss may resolve or can be effectively treated via hearing instruments.

Middle ear

“nerve deafness,” which is characterized by the inability to hear faint sounds. The majority of this type of hearing loss is caused by abnormalities in the hair cells within the cochlea.

Included in the potential causes for this type of hearing loss are: • Medication side effect • Genetics • Aging • Trauma to the head • Illness • Exposure to loud noise • Malformation of inner ear

Do you have a hearing loss? What Next?

If you’ve found yourself nodding and saying, “That’s exactly what’s happening with me,” the first thing you should do is to see your Audiologist who can help diagnose the presence of a hearing loss,

and refer you to the appropriate specialist if required.

• It always helps to be prepared, so arm yourself with answers to the typical kinds of questions you may ask when assessing your hearing loss: • When did you first notice a change in your hearing or ability to communicate?

• In which situations do you notice it the most?

• Have these difficulties gotten worse?

If so, how quickly?

• Were there any other issues present when the hearing loss started (like illness, exposure to loud noises, or an injury)?

• Do you have a family history of hearing loss?

• Have you had ear infections in the past?

• Do you have any constant ringing or buzzing in your ears?

If you are in doubt or are concerned about your hearing or the hearing of a loved one then do not hesitate to make an appointment with Galway Hearing Care (091) 567 888 or e-mail info@galwayhearingcare.ie. Website: www.galwayhearingcare.ie Galway Hearing Care has many years’ experience both in the private and public sector and we work in conjunction with many of your local ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) Consultants.

Hearing Loss Conductive hearing loss generally means that something is interfering with the transmission of sound from the outer and middle ear, reducing the overall volume of sound getting to the inner ear There are many potential causes for this type of hearing loss, including: • Fluid in ears from a head cold • Ear infections • Allergies • A broken/perforated eardrum • Impacted earwax •Foreign matter in ear • Damage/malformation of outer ear • Congenital abnormalities (i.e. atresia, stenosis, etc.)

Symptoms People with conductive hearing loss often need to turn up the volume on televisions and radios, and ask other people to repeat themselves. They may hear better in one ear than the other.

Other symptoms can include ear pain, ear drainage, or the feeling of pressure or blockage in the ears.

Prognosis A vast majority of conductive hearing loss cases can be treated medically or surgically. Often, hearing aids are the most effective way to treat this loss.

Common problems • Inflammation • Middle ear infections known as otitis

Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL) For sensorineural hearing loss, the damage generally lies within the inner ear, the acoustic nerve, or both.

Generally, doctors call this condition,

Address: Galway Hearing Care, 5 Commerce House, Flood Street, Galway Email: info@galwayhearingcare.ie

Page 7 Mature Living February 2013

Sligo’s Radisson Blu plays host to Active Retirement g!oups Photos

Members from Glencullen (Dublin) ARA enjoying the evening.

Mick Shannon and Friends provided musical entertainment

Marie Clifford and Irene Tier from Ballinteer (Dublin) ARA

S Social dancing enthusiast Oliver Fleming and friend

Group from Moyvalley (Meath) Active Retirement group

Page 8 Mature Living February 2013

LIGO’S Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa played host to over 100 members of Active Retirement Ireland from throughout the country recently as they sampled the best of Sligo’s hospitality, cuisine and entertainment.

Groups from Mountbellew, Mervue, Athenry, Loughrea (Galway), Clontarf, Raheny, Rathcoole, Ballinteer, Castleknock, Cabinteely (Dublin), Baltinglass (Wicklow) and Moyvalley (Meath) were most appreciative of the hospitality as they were warmly greeted on arrival on Thursday afternoon by Berni and Celene before enjoying a light lunch in the impressive Classiebawn Restaurant.

Later, they were treated to a Cookery Demonstration

by Executive Chef Joe Shannon before sitting down to an unforgettable meal in Benbulben 1 Restaurant.

A happy group from Mountbellew (Galway) ARA

Joining them for the evening, also, was Ollie Fleming (set dancing), Eric Hamilton (bowling), Mick Shannon (music) and Gerry Walsh, Mature Living publication, who mingled among the guests supplying free copies.

Many of the guests were happy to talk to us about their lives. Helana O’Rourke from Clontarf reminisced on her life in the public service before her retirement some twenty years ago. The appearance of Dr. Mick Loftus in our last issue brought back memories for one man from Loughrea who vividly remembered the Mayo teams from the ’51 era and some of the quality players that donned the Green and Red during that period.

Many spoke about enjoyable weekends spent in many locations throughout Ireland as members of the Active Retirement Associa-

tion and were delighted to learn about Mature Living’s Exhibition scheduled for Sligo in May of this year.

The groups were treated to a Ceili and Sing-Song with Mick Shannon (Joe’s father) and friends, in addition to a Set and Social Dancing Workshop with Oliver Fleming. Those who were still in good shape the following morning were treated to a bowling demonstration by Eric Hamilton, who runs bowling weekends all over the country.

The ARA members were loud in their praise for Sligo and the Radisson who certainly showed their expertise and professionalism in dealing with such a lively and somewhat eclectic group of senior citizens, many of whom will, undoubtedly, return to experience more of what the Yeats County and the north-west has to offer.

Betty Bennett (left) and Helena O’Rourke taking time out for a read amid the celebrations

Tommy and Marie Ellis and Tommy and Mary Kavanagh, Grange-Woodbine ARA, who travelled from Dublin for the weekend at the Radisson.

Happy group from Athenry ARA enjoying the evening

Group from Loughrea (Galway) ARA pictured at the Radisson

The ladies from the Radisson Blu who made it all possible: From left, Berni Chambers (Sales Manager), Celine Kilgallon (Sales Manager) and Paula Scallon (Director of Sales and Marketing).

Eileen Heatley and friends from the Rathcoole ARA in Dublin

Nora Cahill, Chrissie McDonagh and Mary Moore from Mervue (Galway) ARA

Mary Hayes and associates from Baltinglass (Wicklow) ARA

Members of Cabinteely Active Retirement Association had a pleasant weekend at the Radisson Blu, Sligo.

Page 9 Mature Living February 2013

Gerry Walsh speaks with Veronica Cawley

Cathaoirleach

Veronica Cawley Standing for equality and fairness

When we asked her why she entered politics she had no hesitation in responding. She had always been interested in fairness and equality, with people getting a fair chance in life and given opportunities. used her position to highlight several causes close to her heart, such as the Save our Cancer Services Campaign.

When we asked her why she entered politics she had no hesitation in responding. She had always been interested in fairness and equality, with people getting a fair chance in life and given opportunities. Born in Jinks Ave. in a working class environment, Veronica’s life changed overnight with the death of her father when she was seven. She experienced difficult times, but her early life forced her to question many issues and she strongly believes that people should not be judged on the basis of who they are or where they are born, but on what they represent and their ability to do good work.

W

HEN we contacted Sligo County Council Cathaoirleach Veronica Cawley for a One-on-One Interview this week she was delighted to talk to us about her life, her social and political views and her hopes for the future of Sligo and the north-west as we wrestle to emerge from the current recession.

In 2008 Veronica was elected Mayor of Sligo and used her position to highlight several causes close to her heart, such as the Save our Cancer Services Campaign.

Married at 17 to John, with five children (two girls and three boys) ranging in ages from 33 to 12, Veronica has sufficient experience of family life to understand the needs of the communities she represents. Despite the many challenges of her family and political life, she has managed to study as a mature student for many years, obtaining qualifications in Quality Control, business studies and industrial relations. She is employed in administration at IT Sligo, though she has taken leave of absence until June to complete her period as Cathaoirleach.

Veronica entered politics in 1993 when she joined the Labour Party, a development which came about as a result of her links with SIPTU, as she was shop steward during her period of employment with Hansen’s in Sligo. She held a number of executive positions at constituency level before running as a candidate for Sligo Corporation in the North Ward area in 1999 in which she was elected. In 2004 she was elected to both Sligo County Council and Borough Council, a feat which she repeated in 2009. In 2008 Veronica was elected Mayor of Sligo and

Page 10 Mature Living December 2012 February 2013

The day that Veronica was elected as Mayor of Sligo in 2008

where we are at now. People are observing many senior civil servant and advisers earning huge salaries and making decisions that seem detached from reality. They don’t fully understand how their policies can affect the lives of ordinary people.

To relax Veronica likes to watch a good film, where there is a beginning and an end. She dislikes soaps as she can never be confident of seeing the next episode.

She likes to walk and to visit and chat with friends. Sometimes she will read a book and the local newspapers and has a particular interest in reading the news on line.

She enjoys listening to all kinds of music and has a particular liking for Adele, Lady Antebellum and Ben Howard.

In spite of where we are Veronica has great faith in the future. We are a great people, and our young people are resilient and well educated. What we really need is hope – if only the Irish people could get hope. The greatest antidote for fear is hope. We’re just drifting along now. The current strategy is simply not working and stifling hope for recovery.

Veronica feels we can get hope back.

Our mature (older) people possess many skills, particularly relating to survival, skills to be passed on to later generations. Mature people in society have a lot to offer and younger people should look to them for guidance in these difficult times.

Veronica receiving the Cathaoirleach's chain from Michael Fleming (Outgoing) in June 2012

Veronica believes people should be encouraged to speak out against injustice and they need confidence to do this. Even today, though much progress has been made, we are still too willing to accept the decisions of officials, though they may not be the best options for people or communities. She noted the abolition of the Spacial Strategy where Sligo had been given gateway status. This was very worrying and we are now in danger of moving to a situation where the focus for development will revert to the major cities – Dublin, Galway, Cork, Limerick and others, and the north-west will be left with the crumbs.

She fears the consequences of Croke Park 2, which may result in downward pressure on wages. If you cut wages you cut purchasing power and you take money out of the economy and this impacts on everybody. Austerity is not working and every day we hear stories of growing numbers on the poverty line.

When asked what her main contribution or achievement was

Veronica feels that what Sligo now needs economically is to hold onto the industries and businesses it has and if possible attract new industry to hold onto our young people.

Veronica was modest with her response.

She was proud to be elected Mayor of Sligo and Cathaoirleach. She was proud to be elected by people to represent them and their needs and to reflect what they are feeling on the ground. It is the essence of democracy. She was happy to be able to help people on a day to day basis – to enable people and to help them help themselves.

She referred to her involvement with the “Save Sligo Cancer Care Services” campaign and feels the campaign is still very important to the people of the area. This campaign was carried on for more than two years and the loss of the services in Sligo is felt every day by the people of Sligo as they travel to Galway.

She complimented this great group of people involved in the campaign, who gave endlessly of their time in an effort to maintain such essential services for their communities.

Veronica feels that what Sligo now needs economically is to hold onto the industries and businesses it has and if possible attract new industry to hold onto our young people. The country needs to identify and develop niche businesses and markets to deliver sufficient added value to get us out of the recession. She felt sorry for parents watching their children leave in growing numbers. Large numbers will not be coming back, but will opt to stay away.

After 20 years in the Labour Party she opted for Independent candidacy. The concepts of equality and fairness had exposed themselves to the detriment of many people during the Celtic Tiger years. The belief that rising tides lifts all boats was not borne out in reality. There was no Celtic Tiger for those at the bottom of the pile. The fact that half the people of Ireland are now eligible for medical cards speaks volumes about

Veronica pictured as a child in the UK

Page 11 Mature Living February 2013

Win a Stay for t%o at the fabulous Mill Times Hotel, West&or' Including Cocktails, a Delicious Evening Meal and a Bottle of House Wine

The prize which is based on two adults sharing includes the following: • Pre-Dinner Cocktails for two • Evening Meal for Two • 1 Bottle of House Wine • plus...Accomodation for two guests for one night To be in with a chance to win this break, simply answer the question and send your answer, along with your name, address, email address and telephone number into us at the address below...

Question: What is the name of the Restaurant at The Mill Times Hotel?

Send your entries into us at ‘Mill Times Hotel Competition’ Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, Northwest Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo Terms and Conditions Apply, Closing Date for enties is March 4th 2013

February & March Midweek Deal

2 Nights B&B and 1 Evening Meal In Temptations Restaurant

€79 per person sharing

And no single supplement Offer is subject to availabilit#; Ter$s & conditions apply.

Spring Sale

Pre-Dinner Cocktails for t%o, evening meal, 1 bo(le of house wine, and accommodation for 2 g)ests for 1 night for only €99

Valid jan to April 2013 Midweek, Sunday and THursday and Select Friday Nights, T&C Apply, Excludes 14th Feb, 17th March and Bank Holiday Sundays

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Mill Street, Town Centre, Westport, Co. Mayo

Telephone: 098-29200

www.milltimeshotel.ie • info@milltimeshotel.ie

Advertising Feature

Buy a New Bed this Bed Month

T

he Sleep Council takes the hard work out of buying a new bed with a handy new list of practical pointers for National Bed Month (March).

“Buy the right bed and you could be buying into night after night of quality sleep,” says Darren Bastin of Bonus Beds, Sligo. “Anyone who has ever slept in a really comfortable or really dreadful old bed will know how it can affect the quality of sleep.

“With so many products to choose from, bed buying can seem a daunting task which is why National Bed Month is a really great time to shop for that new bed and to get a really good deal too” If you know you need a new bed, but are unsure what you want or what suits you Darren suggests it’s best to check out The Sleep Council’s guide to the questions you should be asking yourself:• Are you buying your bed for yourself or another person?

• Is the bed for one person or two?

• What do you (or did you) like about your current bed? Think about the size, the feel, the style etc.

• What sort of bed are you looking for?

Divan set, mattress, bedstead etc.

• Do you need storage?

• What’s your budget?

• What size of bed are you after?

• Have you got room for a bigger bed?

• What comfort/feel do you like?

• Have you a preference towards a construction type or material?

• Will turning a mattress be difficult for you?

• Do you have any health problems?

Eg back or shoulder pain, struggling to get out of bed?

• Do you tend to get hot in bed?

• Do you have any allergies or allergic conditions? Eg asthma, rhinitis,

Exclusively Available Only At Bonus Beds - The Salus Memory Pocket 1500 No Turn Mattress. 25cm Deep Mattress, 7.5cm body contouring memory foam, 1500 foam encased pocket springs and a removable cover with Cocona Technology.

eczema?

• Do you need new pillows?

• Are there likely to be any problems getting your new bed into the room it’s intended for?

“These are some really key points to consider when shopping for a new bed,” says Darren. “Too often, people rush the bed buying experience – some spend less than two minutes trying them out! It’s a huge investment and time needs to be taken to choose the right bed.”

Once the above checklist has been completed it’s important to try a selection of beds for comparison before you buy – and if you’re sharing the bed, try them out together. What suits one person, doesn’t necessarily suit another.

Size also matters. You should be able to lie side by side with your arms behind your head and your elbows out, without touching. Ideally your bed should also be about 6in (15cm) longer than the tallest user (if you’re tall ask about extra long options).

“We always recommend you lie down in your normal sleeping position and make some turns too – for at least 10 minutes. Wear comfortable clothing and remove any outdoor gear,” says Darren.

Remember, you’re going to spend over 20,000 hours on your bed over a seven year lifespan so it’s worth taking a little time and effort in the beginning to make sure you make the right choice.

Darren continues, “As well as getting the right bed or mattress we will have some great deals during National Bed Month in March, such as free memory foam pillows and upgrades in size. So pay for a 4’6” Double and get a 5’0” King

&

Size or pay for a 5’0” King Size and get a 6’0” Super King Size.

For more information on how to choose a good bed and all the options available, visit Bonus Beds in High

Street, Sligo or call 071 913 8111.

Alternatively visit The Sleep Council website, www.sleepcouncil.org.uk or call Freephone 0044 800 018 7923 to request a copy of the Bed Buyers Guide.

Exclusive Deals & Offers For Mature Living Readers With This Advert

Feature with Sonya Hamill of Blue Apple Dental

Blue Apple – Dental Practice of the Year MATURE LIVING spoke with Sonya Hamill of Blue Apple after her Team won the major Irish Dental Award earlier this month.

Talk to us about your business: From the beginning our Principal Dentist, James Hamill, knew exactly what type of practice he wanted it to be. He wanted to open a dental practice which offered a fresh approach to dentistry. We offer all types of dentistry, from the simple to the very complex. It was important to us that we coupled our enthusiasm for high quality dentistry with really good patient care. We pride ourselves on our hospitality, and really enjoy welcoming our patients and getting to know them.

I

T’S certainly onwards and upwards for the Blueapple Dental & Implant Team, based in Belcoo, Fermanagh. After winning a plethora of Awards since they first established in 2005, they have now achieved a major milestone by scooping Ireland’s Dental Practice of the Year 2013, the major prize at the Irish Dentistry Awards presented at the Mansion House, Dublin on February 1st Blue Apple is run by husband and wife team, James and Sonya Hamill. All kinds of dentistry is carried out by the dental team under one roof. When we spoke to Sonya last week she was very excited about the Award and happy to answer some questions about her business, what the Award means to them and their many clients.

“When Blue Apple opened in 2005 there were just 3 of us. But that quickly grew, and we now have 9 members of staff, from the essential nursing team, to our clinicians, to our unique Welcome Team in reception.”

Recently a lady came for her first appointment, and at the end she said, ‘this is the first time anyone has talked to me about my teeth as though they were really interested.’ Everyone is different, but quite often we see people when they have been on a long journey with their teeth, over many years of feeling disheartened. When they come to us, it’s a fresh start, and we’re looking towards their future and where they want to be in the years to come. Getting back in control of your teeth and smile is very powerful for someone who initially feels they haven’t many options left.

We’re unusual because we do almost every type of dentistry under one roof, from children’s dentistry, to fillings, to microscopic root treatment, to adult tooth straightening, to cosmetic dentures, to tooth replacement with dental implants. We are particularly well known for our dental implant work, which covers all forms of tooth replacement, from one tooth, to multiple teeth, to securing dentures. But essentially it’s all about the same thing, helping people feel happy, comfortable and confident in their smile.

when it’s your name they call out, and it’s amazing when other people show appreciation for something you have created. But all the endeavours at Blueapple are a true team effort, and the award really does belong to our whole team; bringing it home to them is like a huge thank you for all their dedicated work.

What will it mean to your clients?

Sharing this award with our patients is another huge part of the pleasure it brings. Their good wishes and congratulations are very touching, because it is them after all who are the true judges of how well we do each day.

What (in your opinion) are the main ingredients for success in business?

I feel the most important thing in business is being committed to the quality of what you do. We are very particular, because ultimately we want to give the patient the best possible and

longest lasting result. I think the same rules apply to any business.

What do you do to relax (if you have time) Our business does take up most of our time. And, I imagine like most other married couples who run a business together, we can find it difficult to resist the urge to discuss work even when we aren’t there! But we have two young children, and so our time away from work usually revolves around them.

James likes to cycle, and at the minute he is training for his next big challenge in June, a 24 hour charity cycle from Manchester to London. I’m more likely to be found in a corner with a good book!

At Mature Living we take the opportunity to congratulate Sonya, James and all the team at Blue Apple Dental for this magnificent achievement and wish all of them continued success in the future.

What is the Award itself about?

These are the only dental industry awards of this type in Ireland. The judging panel consists of a group of prominent dentists from across Ireland and industry commentators.

After winning the award for Best Practice in our regional category, we then went on to be selected as the winners of the event’s top award, Ireland’s ‘Dental Practice of the Year 2013’.

What does it mean to you?

There’s nothing quite like that moment

Tony Aherne (Chairman of the judging panel), James Hamill (Dentist and Clinical Director at Blueapple Dental & Implant Team) and Sonya Hamill (Blueapple).

‘Blueapple Dental & Implant Team’ is an award-winning dental practice in the village of Belcoo in Co. Fermanagh, run by husband and wife team, James and Sonya Hamill.

Blueapple carries out all forms of dentistry under one roof, and focuses on helping people overcome their dental challenges, to re-establish their dental health, comfort and beauty. They believe that there is no-one they can’t help regain their dental confidence.

‘Blueapple Dental & Implant Team’ has won multiple awards, including ‘Best New Practice’, ‘Best Young Dentist in the UK & Ireland’, and most recently ‘Best Patient Care in Ireland 2012’.

www.blueappledental.com

Blueapple welcomes new patients.

Just call 048 66386111 to make an appointment for your consultation.

‘Such encouragement and support I have never experienced before and empowered me to complete the procedure without sedation….My trust in Blueapple across all aspects of my dental experience is always upheld each time I visit the practice. I cannot emphasise enough the transformation that has occurred in my life in terms of panic and anxiety. ‘ An anxious patient, Sligo.

Finance with Ken O’Neill of Flanagan Ford Financial Advisors

Inheritance Tax Planning

Inheritance tax – the tax that has risen quite dramatically under the radar!

What is Inheritance tax?

Inheritance is a tax which can arise where a beneficiary receives an Inheritance as a result of someone dying (or a gift from somebody in their lifetime). This tax falls under the heading Capital Acquisitions Tax . Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) was originally conceived as a way to claw back some funds for the Revenue from the “very wealthy”.

Who pays the tax?

The person receiving the inheritance or gift is liable to CAT and not the person or the estate providing the benefit.

Tax Free Amount.

Subject to certain exemptions, (e.g. inheritance from a legal spouse, family home exemption etc.) most assets both inside and outside the state are assessable for Inheritance Tax. Each person has an amount that they can receive tax free but it depends on their relationship with the person from whom they are inheriting from. The balance is then taxed at 33%. This tax rate was a low at 20% in 2008.

Not only has the rate with which this tax is charged been increased by 65% since 2008, the reduction in the thresholds (tax free amount) have been reduced quite significantly as can be seen from the table below.

GROUP THRESHOLDS Where the person receiving the Group 1 €225,000 inheritance is a child of the disponer.

Group 2 €30,150

Group 3 €15,075

Where the person receiving the inheritance is a lineal ancestor, descendant, a brother/sister or child of a brother/sister of the disponer.

All other cases.

Thresholds have been dramatically reduced. For example, the group 1 threshold from parents to children reduced from €521,208 in 2008 to €225,000 in 2013 a reduction of over 50%.

There may be a perception that, given the recent reduction in estate and asset values, the need to plan for CAT has gone away. The exact opposite is in fact the case.

For example Mr & Mrs Kelly are aged 55 and their estate valued €1,250,000 is to be divided equally between their 2 children.

Their children’s inheritance tax bill will be €264,000, i.e. 21% of the estate will be taken in tax.

The Solution The solution is a Section 72 Life Assurance policy written on a whole of life basis. The premium in this case would work out at €5,691 annually. So the options to Mr & Mrs Kelly are 1. Lose 21% of the estate in inheritance tax.

2. Save what you would pay in Life assurance premiums i.e. €5,691 per annum to try to accumulate what would be needed to pay the CAT liability. In this example, Mr & Mrs Kelly would need to save €5,691 for over 69 years to cover the CAT bill.

3. Put a Section 72 Life policy in place to protect the estate at a cost of 2% per annum of the tax bill.

Making a return If you are resident in Ireland you must get an agent who is resident in Ireland , such as a solicitor, to take responsibility for the payment of CAT. Gifts or inheritances with a valuation date on or after 14 June 2010 have a fixed CAT pay and file date. All gifts and inheritances with a valuation date in the 12-month period ending on the 31 August must be paid and filed by 31 October.

This means, if the valuation date is between 1 January and 31 August, you must complete the tax return and pay the tax on or before 31 October in that year.

If the valuation date is between 1 September and 31 December you must complete the tax return and pay the tax on or before 31 October in the following year.

Late Payment Fee There is a surcharge for late pay and file of CAT. The surcharge is based on a percentage of the total tax payable for the year the return is late and graded according to the length of the delay.

However, there is an overall cap on the level of the surcharge which is calculated as follows: • 5% surcharge to a maximum of €12,695, if you complete the tax return and pay the tax within 2 months of the pay and file date.

• 10% surcharge up to a maximum of €63,485, if you do not complete the tax return and pay the tax within 2 months of the pay and file date.

Reliefs and exemptions.

Certain reliefs and exemptions apply to certain types of assets. These have been introduced over the years to primarily encourage private enterprise and to avoid the forced sale of a family farm, business or the family home in certain circumstances.

Spouse or Civil Partner Exemption – Gifts or inheritances received by one spouse or civil partner from the other are totally exempt from CAT.

Agricultural Relief – the value of farmland, buildings and stock can be reduced by 90% where the beneficiary is a qualifying farmer and he or she holds the property for a minimum of 6 years.

Business Relief – can provide a similar reduction of 90% of the value of certain businesses or private companies, where both the business and the beneficiary meet certain qualifying conditions.

Family Home Relief – exemption from Gift and Inheritance tax is available on the value of certain dwellings with up to an acre of land where the beneficiary meets certain conditions which ensure that the property was, and continues to be, their home.

If you feel that there may be a CAT liability when you pass on, and you would like further info on this subject please do not hesitate in contacting me here in Flanagan Ford. You can email me on ken@flanaganford.ie or call 071 9159222.

F

lanagan Ford Financial Advisors was established in 1998 by Shane Flanagan & Tom Ford. Since then Ken O’Neill, Tess Monaghan & Sinead McGill joined our team, further adding to our company’s expertise and knowledge and reinforcing our commitment to providing a first class service and experience to our clients.

We pride ourselves on providing impartial advice to our customers and we are very aware of the trust they place in us. We believe that the key to our success is the personal service that we consistently provide. Our pledge is to provide ‘Trusted Financial Advice for Life’ to our clients and we do all in our power to earn their trust.

Flanagan Ford Ltd Financial Advisors, Shell House, Wine Street, Co Sligo Tel: 071 915 9222 / Fax: 071 914 5134 info@flanaganford.ie www.flanaganford.ie Flanagan Ford Limited t/a Flanagan Ford Financial Advisors is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Impact of Higher Tax rates and Lower Thresholds in recent years Below is a table showing the impact of the increase in the tax rate and the reduction of the thresholds over the last number of years. These figures are based where an estate was left to one child.

2008

2012

2013

Tax Rate

20%

30%

33%

Group 1 Thresh

€521,208

€250,000

€225,000

€300,000

Nil

€15,000

€24,750

€500,000

Nil

€75,000

€90,750

€750,000

€45,758

€150,000

€173,250

€1,000,000

€95,758

€225,000

€255,750

€1,500,000

€195,758

€375,000

€420,750

€2,500,000

€395,758

€675,000

€750,750

€500,000,000

€895.758

€1,425,000

€1,575,750

Inheritance

Source: Irish Life Technical Dept

Page 15 Mature Living February 2013

Advertising Feature

Yeats Country Antiques

Hugo Greene (Greene's Antiques), Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Naoise O'Muiri, President of Sligo Chamber of Commerce, Linda Moffitt & Mervyn Blanc (Yeats Country Antiques)

Y

eats Country Antiques was established by Mervyn Blanc more than 20 years ago in Sligo. Mervyn is a second generation antique dealer having started his collection in the late 1980’s with a single piece, he has steadily built a collection of thousands of antiques over a period of more than 20 years. Although the business has grown and developed significantly over that time, it remains an owner-

managed business that is able to provide a quality service with a personal touch.

Yeats Country Antiques operates from a large antiques warehouse based in Rathcormack, Sligo where you will find a treasure trove of fine quality antiques. Recently they have also opened a beautiful showrooms in Dublin’s famous antiques quarter, Francis Street, Dublin 8 where they showcase a selection of their finest pieces.

Specialising in fine Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian period furniture, particularly walnut, rosewood and mahogany items they also stock an extensive selection of other collectable items and provide a comprehensive restoration and upholstery service.

Yeats Country Antiques is a member of both the Irish Antique Dealers’ Association, the trade association which represents the leading antique dealers in Ireland and also CINOA, the organization representing the leading Art & Antiques dealers worldwide.

Their customers come from all parts of the country and a large number are repeat customers who appreciate their honest approach, depth of knowledge and genuine stock.

Branleys yard, Rathcormac, Co. Sligo 67/68 Francis Street, Dublin 8.

Yeats Country Antiques recently celebrated the opening of their new Dublin showrooms in an opening ceremony conducted by the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Naoise O’Muiri. Also present was the President of Sligo Chamber of Commerce, Linda Moffit.

Guests were treated to beautiful canapés of Irish crab,

Moy Salmon and Dublin strawberries accompanied by Tattinger champagne.

According to Blanc “The opening night celebrations were a major success and we were delighted with the large crowd and the fantastic atmosphere. It is a great endorsement for our business to have such support and you could sense the enthusiasm of people to be celebrating the opening of a new business particularly when there are so many businesses closing down at the moment.

We guarantee that we will have stock to suit every pocket so a visit is a must, especially in the current climate.”

Why is now a good time to be buying antiques?

Value for money Antiques have never been more affordable. According to Blanc “there has never been a better time for buying antiques – the value for money really is excellent. People are also becoming more aware that buying an antique rather than a modern piece of furniture will mean that in a few years they will have an item which is worth at least as much if not more than its current price today”.

Fantastic Selection Available The economic down-turn has resulted in an unparalleled availability of quality antiques at reasonable prices. According to Blanc “we are seeing items which would never have come to the market in other circumstances being sold at very reasonable prices and it’s quite an exciting time in that respect.

It really is a buyers market out there”.

Antiques are Green Buying antiques is the ultimate in eco-friendly shopping.

Antiques are inherently recycled and reused.

Very few products can claim such longevity.

What is popular at the moment?

Functional Furniture.

According to Blanc “at the moment, people are keen to invest in antiques as they

appreciate the superior quality, but currently the focus is on items which can be put to every day use around the home, for example a writing desk, superb victorian mahogany chest of drawers or a comfortable chair.

People are keen to get value for money from their purchase and to put it to good use.

Therefore, in general, items which are both beautiful and functional are our best sellers”.

Yeats Country Antiques currently have in stock a beautiful polished chrome filing cabinet with brass handles in full working order and a chest of drawers (pictured).

Unusual Items Items which are rare or unusual are always popular and will continue to attract a good deal of attention.

According to Blanc, “there will always be a strong market for rare and unusual items and the price of such pieces continues to appreciate even in today’s climate.

If you believe you are in possession of something of interest, then it is worth having it valued by a reputable dealer in order to determine its true market value”.

Currently in stock at Yeats Country Antiques is a beautiful Georgian Harp, made by George Morley and retailed by Erards of London (c. 1810) (pictured).

Restoration work Now is a good time to consider getting restoration work done.

Prices are very reasonable and rather than buy a new item why not give an old item a facelift?

According to Blanc “the demand for restoration work is huge at the moment as many people are seeking value for money ways of redecorating.

We offer a full restoration and re-upholstery service and that side of the business has never been so busy”.

A visit to Yeats Country Antiques is a must for the discerning antiques buyer, the vintage enthusiast and the bargain hunter.

Check out our website:www.yeatscountryantiques.ie

Grattan St, Sligo • www.ejsligo.com • 071-9170824 OPEN 7 DAYS THURSDAY TILL 7PM, SUNDAY 2-6PM

Holidays with Mullaney Travel, Sligo

For all your travel needs...

Cruising

The growth in popularity of cruising in Ireland has been significant over the last few years, it is an ideal way of visiting multiple destinations in one trip without the inconvenience of constant packing and repacking.

The ships vary from the smaller capacity ships carrying 400 + persons to the mega ships or floating hotels carrying 3000+ persons.

The bigger the ships the more facilities and activities available on board.

Prices for cruises are good value at the moment and prices start at the inboard cabin and become progressively more expensive for outboard cabins, balconies, and suites.

Visiting family abroad Long Stay Holidays

Due to the considerable rise in emigration we now see parents and grand parents travelling to Australia /New Zealand /Usa to visit their children and grandchildren .

Flexibility in dates, booking well in advance will help to achieve the best fares available for your itinerary.

Escorted tours

Similar in many respects to cruising but a little harder work as you are changing Hotels most nights, but it is a fantastic way to see a variety of cities and countries in one holiday with all transportation organised for you.

In Ireland we are used to the rain and damp, but there is no doubt that some time spent in a warmer drier climate is beneficial to our health. In the last number of years the Spanish Government and Hotel groups have produced long stay (2 weeks +)packages to encourage tourism to Spain in out of peak periods , namely march – june and sept –december, there are some very good longer stay prices currently available.

City breaks

Have bag, Will travel.

For all your Travel needs

Mullaney Travel O’Connell Street & Johnstons Court, Sligo

info@mullaneytravel.ie Telephone: 0719143278

In comparision to cruising the groups are relatively small and more intimate having 25-40 persons.There are a number of very highly respected tour companies in this area with an wide selection of possible itineraries.

Visiting European cities is a great way to have a short holiday combined with the adventure of exploring a new city or reacquainting yourself with a city previously visited. Make sure you get an early flight out and late flight back to make the most of your time.

Page 20 Mature Living February 2013

The travel agents who cares

Advertising Feaure

Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies and Health Stores Offering the Best Medicine around – GREAT VALUE

M

olloys Lifestyle Pharmacies and Health Stores are committed to bringing exceptional value to their customers and to reward them for their customer loyalty. The pharmacy group has a strong focus on delivering value for money and in recent months there has been a strong visible drive in delivering this commitment. Customers can avail of a loyalty

programme and fantastic savings depending on their own individual needs and lifestyle requirements.

Here are some of the savings and the loyalty programme currently available at all Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies and Health Stores: Loyalty Card Programme Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies has recently re-launched its

loyalty card programme which allows customers to collect points every time they shop at any Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies and Health Stores. You can choose to redeem your points against your purchases at any time. We offer a special club to the members of the active retirement group, whereby members can earn 5 points for every €uro spent in store. As part of the relaunch we have now extended the loyalty programme to include prescription items.

Points can be earned on prescription costs and fees. Cards are available from in-store so sign up for one today!

Weekly Offers: Every week special offers are published on facebook.com/molloyspharmacy with significant savings available every week in all stores. Join us online to keep up-to-date with all offers and see for yourself the great savings that are available from Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies and Health Stores.

WOW DEALS: A new savings deal has been introduced called WOW Deals, which offers customers unbeatable deals on twin packs from major brands. €1 Deals We offer a wide range of €1 deals in store. For example, currently pampers baby wipes only €1, Kleenex Tissue only €1, Airwick home fragrance only €1, Colgate Toothpaste only €1 and Oral B Month Wash only €1- all offers subject to stock availability. New offers will be introduced as they become available.

Major Savings on Household Essentials Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies and Health Stores is delighted to introduce a new department “Household Essentials” where you will find all your favourite household names at unbeatable value. Currently Vanish Stain Remover is only €1.95, Harpic Hygenic in the Bowl only €1.50, Dettol Spray & Wipe only €1.50 plus many more fantastic offers. Offers are subject to availability and new offers are introduced regularly.

Clearance Section: Each of the Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies and Health Stores has a new clearance section which is well worth browsing if you like a good bargain!

Professional services at a price you can afford Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies pride themselves on offering an affordable Dietician clinic with a register Dietician for only €20. Find out what you really need to give up this Lent with a Food Intolerance Test which is currently on special offer for only €99 which includes a 40 minute private Dietician consultation. The normal cost is €120.

Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies and Health Stores is an Irish owned company with 6 stores in Counties Mayo and Roscommon.

The three stores in Roscommon are located in Ballaghaderreen, Harrison Centre, Roscommon and an addition of a NEW pharmacy in Henry St Roscommon. The Henry St Store is open Monday – Friday offering a full time dispensary service.

30 day Fit Start Program only at Curves

Every woman who joins Curves will receive a 4-week meal plan, personal gym orientation and a work out plan to help them towrds their goal of a fitter, more fabulous you!

• Weight managment • Juicing Workshop • Boxerette • Boot Camp • Zumba • Fitness Finesse

Find out what you really need to give up this Lent Special Lent Offer on Food Intolerance Test

Was €120 Now €99 includes FREE Die!cian Consulta!on Offer ends Saturday 30th March 2013

For more informa#on call into your nearest Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies and Health Stores or call: Ballina: Bunree Rd 096 60340 • Garden St 096 21375 Roscommon: Ballaghaderreen 094 987 7520 • Harrison Centre Roscommon Town 090 663 7604

Join us online www.molloyspharmacy.com

Listen out for James Geraghty, Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies and Health Stores on Midwest Radio on the last Wednesday of every month as he Joins Paul Claffey to answer all your health ques"ons

Page 19 Mature Living February 2013

The Gathering 2013

Gathering in Voice

Ireland is set to welcome Hundreds of International Choirs throughout 2013, the Year of the Gathering

2013 is well and truly a year of Gatherings, with over 3000 get-togethers set to take place across Ireland throughout the year. Choirs and Choral Festivals throughout Ireland are mobilising their own networks, inviting overseas choirs to join them this year for the Gathering Ireland 2013.

Project Director Jim Miley said: “Ireland has a fantastic network of choral societies and choirs who have travelled the world, representing their community and their country. Now, they’re inviting all of their overseas choral friends to celebrate with them in Ireland this year.

We would love to hear from other choirs in Ireland who are inviting overseas choirs to join them in Ireland this year.

Not only will visiting choirs have the opportunity to enjoy Irish hospitality while they’re here, but people throughout Ireland will have the opportunity to enjoy some wonderful concerts with different world cultures coming together to celebrate in song”.

Western Drama Festival This is an annual competitive Drama Festival for amateur groups. This years festival is of special significant as it is the first such festival to reach it 70th. anniversary. Many of the top drama groups in Ireland come every year to participate in this highly regarded event.

Plays start nightly at 8pm in St Brigids Hall Theatre with a different play and different group each night. Many special events are planned to celebrate the 70th. anniversary. The official opening on 1st March will be performed by Garry Hynes of Druid Theatre fame. Many of those who participated in, or attended the festival during those years including those now overseas will want to join in the celebrations. While attending this week long festival visitors can enjoy many of the attractions the South Sligo area has to offer. These include Golf and

Fishing, Walking and Cycling routes, Scenic drives and Shopping, Beech and Hill walking, Guided historic walk around Lough Talt and Horse riding.

Takes place at The Square, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo between 1st and 9th March 2013 - Open to Everyone!

Dive Ireland International 2013 Dive Ireland international 2013 - Hodson Bay Hotel Athlone. Some of the biggest names in Scuba Diving and Snorkeling descend on Athlone on the 2nd and 3rd March 2013 with Speakers giving talks on many of the different diving and snorkeling diciplines. Also in attendance will be many home grown and international exhibitors from the world of dive and snorkel equipment, also will be a great selection of Irish and International holiday dive operators. We hope to have as many visitors as possible over the weekend and look forward to making many new friends.

And on the Saturday night we plan a big party, all musicians and singers are welcome to join our very own Underwater Orchestra.

Takes place at: Hodson Bay Hotel , Kiltoom, Athlone, Co. Roscommon Saturday 2 March 2013 09:30 - 18:00 Sunday 3 March 2013 09:30 - 17:30 Carrick on Shannon’s 400th Birthday Carrick on Shannon will be celebrating its 400th Birthday in 2013 and we are planning a year long programme of events to include sports, culture and heritage. Included is the Connaght Fleadh, Carrick Water Music and many more. Each event will be themed to celebrate the 400 years. We are inviting all Leitrim people abroad to return home during 2013 and enjoy our many events.

This is a huge community effort where everyone is involved and looking forward to the year ahead.

Dates TBC - Open to Everyone

Page 20 Mature Living February 2013

Mayo & District Motorsport Club’s annual tarmac stages rally Ballina, Co Mayo is delighted to be hosting the return of the Mayo & District Motorsport Club’s annual tarmac stages rally after an absence of more than ten years. Hotel Ballina on the Foxford Road in the town will be the headquarters for the 2013 rally which takes place on March 9th and 10th.

The route, consisting of a three stage loop run three times, with a central service, will provide competitors with excellent value in stage distance while keeping road section mileage to a minimum. The compact loop provides for an abundance of superb spectator points on each individual stage, with a choice of viewing locations across the 119 Km route. Ballina will host a welcome night in the town centre on the Saturday 9th March, bringing a carnival atmosphere to the town to welcome visitors, drivers and rally car enthusiasts. Families who are eager to view the cars can join the participators and get a bird’s eye view of the rally cars and rally stars as they will be on display in the town centre on Saturday night. The town centre will be closed to traffic, with diversions in place.

The Mayo Stages Rally will attract over 130 participants and 20 cars as well as huge numbers of spectators from all over the country, Northern Ireland, the UK and further afield as this event is round one of the 2013 Sligo Pallets Border Rally Championship.

One of the biggest annual sporting events in Mayo, the 2013 edition promises to be a spectacular event for participators and spectators, providing a

weekend of family fun and entertainment this March.

Ceremonial start in Ballina Town Centre 9 March 2013 17:00 - 22:00 Rally Cars depart from parc-ferme 10 March 2013 MAYO INTERNATIONAL CHORAL FESTIVAL 25th – 26th May This year, the Mayo International Choral Festival will welcome a total of 36 choirs (both competing and non-competing) and hundreds of music fans to a range of concerts and performances set in some lovely Mayo venues, from the beautiful 13th Century Ballintubber Abbey to the state-of-the-art Ballina, Linenhall and Royal Theatres.

Eamon Horkan, Festival Chairman says: “Entries for our Festival closed at the end of January. The response has been far better than we ever expected. To date we have had entries from Scotland, Wales, England, Germany, and U.S.A. as well as Ireland. We are really seeing the appeal of an invitation to Ireland. Some of the choirs we invited to our festival are unable to come but really want to be part of the Gathering so we’re arranging special ‘one-off’ concerts for them at other times throughout the year. The Ballymena Male Voice Choir is coming to Castlebar for a concert in Christ Church on the 6th. April. The Reading Male Voice Choir from England is coming for a week in May, staying at Lough Lannagh Holiday Village. We hope to have more choirs coming later in the year.”

For information on this and thousands of other Gatherings taking place this year, see www.thegatheringireland.com

T

he Boyne Valley Hotel In Drogheda is a beautiful 19th century country house hotel set at the end of a tree lined avenue, featuring 16 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland. Located just 20 minutes from Dublin Airport, this 3 star Meath Hotel has so much to offer you.

For business or pleasure, a quiet break away, a meeting, a wedding or a family celebration the Boyne Valley Hotel is everything you are looking for.

A traditional warm Irish welcome from our dedicated staff. Our award-winning leisure club with swimming pool, gym and tennis courts await you.

A selection of meeting rooms to suit every purpose from small interviews to 300 delegate conferences. The hotel is a hub of local activity for events and family celebrations.

We invite you to enjoy our hospitalit! and ex"lore all the heritage, scener!, activit!, shopping and lux#r! that this region has to offer

Young at hear% Packages: 2 nights B&B including 2 dinners from only €109pps 3 nights B&B including 3 dinners from only €159pps No single supplement The above offers include:

Luxurious Accommodation with full Irish Breakfast each morning, Dinner on each evening in the Terrace Bar or Seasons Restaurant.

Welcome drink on arrival, Free Parking Complimentary access to the Leisure Centre including: Pool, Sauna, Steamroom & Jacuzzi.

The offers are valid from Sunday to Thursday or weekends at an additional cost.

Please Quote ‘Mature Living Magazine’ to avail of the Young at Heart Packages

Dublin Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth • Tel: 041 983 7737 reservations@boyne-valley-hotel.ie • www.boyne-valley-hotel.ie

Hobbies with Marie of The Gingham Duck, Harmony Hill, Sligo.

Knitting, It's The New Yoga Though many people associate knitting with grandmother’s clicking heavy needles in rocking chairs, knitting has been revolutionized in the past few years and is now a hip hobby and even livelihood for thousands of people including major Hollywood celebrities.

T

hanks to yarn bombing and envogue Knitting Magazines, knitting has now been identified as a unique art form, worthy of our adoration.

Many of us need an innovative way to relax, regenerate, and recharge. What many modern women have found is the timeless art of knitting and crochet.

Don’t panic, as we’ve just said “This isn’t your grandmother’s knitting anymore”!

Some people are baffled by knitting as a hobby. Ten hours to make a scarf seems like hard work, but repetition helps to relieve stress, a tricky pattern helps to work the brain, and finishing a project gives a knitter a sense of completion which might provide fulfilment not felt in everyday life.

Many knitters that have returned to the craft or taken it up for the first time

say that knitting (and crochet) is therapeutic, some saying “It is like yoga without sweat. Even if knitting the most complicated pattern, it relaxes me,” Whatever you like to call it, it works!

Ask the many advocates of this hobby, and you’ll find they love their knitting and love the result of their creation.

Some can’t imagine taking a road trip, or watching TV without their knitting project.

One Dublin lady says “I take knitting with me on my train commute. In thirty minutes, I forget about the world around me and I get off of the train with a clear head"!

Retailing and working with yarn is often a career path for many, like Marie, owner of The Gingham Duck, Sligo who have made a living out of knitting.

In every city and even in some cases,

small town, in Ireland, you will find a yarn shop and with new sites like Etsy, lots of knitters, weavers, and dyers are selling their wares online.

“Knitting gives you a sense of accomplishment,” says Marie. “No matter if you are making a sweater or a scarf, you feel productive. It is still one of the things remaining that you can accomplish with your own hands.”

Knitting items for others, whether it be for charity or gifts, added an additional layer of self-worth and happiness.

Marie continues, “I found that people who receive handmade items feel special knowing that the creator spent so much time and attention on a special gift for them”.

I have found a lot of pleasure from knitting personally and professionally, but also find that in times of tragedy, though I may not be able to do a lot financially, I can knit prayer shawls, afghans, hats, and scarves. I have also found a sense of community with other knitters both in my town, across the country, and online. Without knitting,

I’m not sure I would have the sense of accomplishment I do today and I am eager to share this skill with others as it was to me.

“It is very important to pass this skill on to other generations. With the boom of technology, we sometimes forget the joy of making things ourselves,” Marie notes. The Gingham Duck is open year round, and is always a warm and lively place to stop in and meet fellow knitters. You’ll find yarns beyond your wildest imagination, tested knitting patterns, a very knowledgeable owner, and a myriad of knitting projects to keep you enthused for hours.

The shop is stocked floor to ceiling with the most wonderful selection of novelty, organic, and classic knitting yarns. We also carry an extensive selection of knitting needles, knitting accessories, patterns, books, gifts for the knitter, and buttons. Gift Certificates are also available in any denomination.

Call Marie on 071 914 4422 or visit The Gingham Duck at Harmony Hill, Sligo to begin your knitting adventure!

A premier outlet for knitting, needlecraft and haberdashery supplies Sirdar Hayfield James C Brett Rico Studio Donegal plus other quality yarns DMC Embroidery Threads Artemio Fat Quarters Jellycats The World’s Most sophisticated soft toys Harmony Hill, Sligo • Tel: 071-914 4422 happy@theginghamduck.ie

Page 22 Mature Living February 2013

Easter at The Knock House Hotel

Spring Fashion at ej Menswear

by Rodney Munn

EASTER is a very special time of year at Knock House Hotel, just minutes from Knock Shrine, spring is in the air with all the grounds flowers are starting to bloom, beautiful Holy week services in the Basilica, the annual Passion Play in Ballintubber Abbey and yearly Easter pilgrims arriving. It’s a time of renewal and reflection. We treat all our guests as friends and our attention to your every need will ensure you will have a really relaxing and enjoyable Easter break with us.

Our Hotel is just 20 minutes from “Ireland West Airport Knock” and 10 minutes from Claremorris Train Station.

Knock House Hotel boasts 68 comfortable, non-smoking bedrooms, of which 6 have been specially designed to cater for wheelchair users. Many of the rooms enjoy beautiful views of the untouched countryside county Mayo has to offer.

Our well established Four Seasons Restaurant is open all day from 8.00am and serves Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Meals and evening and A La Carte menu up

to 8.00pm each evening.

One can also relax in the magnificent foyer, with its walls built from local limestone and featuring a superb glazed area that affords sweeping views over the rolling Mayo countryside. There is an excellent new lounge menu full of light meals and snacks available from 10.00am until 8.00pm each day. Our Hotel has three spacious meeting rooms for business meetings, conferences or classes and they may also be used for group meetings and activities. We also cater for coach groups for stop off lunch or overnight stays and can arrange day trips and local activities upon request.

Knock House Hotel is a little piece of heaven in the West of Ireland To Book your Easter break with us please contact Karen on (00353)94 9388088 .Gift vouchers are available at the Hotel and on our website www.knockhousehotel.ie they make the ideal Birthday present. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter #knockhousehotel for special offers and competitions.

Guarantee Your Copy of THE MAGAZINE FOR THE OLDER, BOLDER INDIVIDUAL

for just €35 per year!

Due to the massive uptake on the last issue of Mature Living Magazine, not everyone could be guaranteed a free copy in their local outlet.

However, we now offer a subscription service.

M

ature Living is full to the brim with information on events, finance, travel, pets, food and drink, health, hobbies and much much more! For just €35 (to cover postage and admin costs) you can have Mature Living delivered to your door.

Mature Living is published once per month and a subscription covers 12 months.

Complete the form below. You can pay by cheque or Postal Order made payable to IBS Publications I would llike to subscribe to Mature Living Magazine for 12 issues.

Name...........................................................Telephone...............................

Address.................................................................................................... .............................................................................................................

Alternatively, you can pay via telephone using your credit or debit card. Simply call us on 071-9154538 with your details.

Cut out this form and send it to us at: Subscriptions, Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo

"she turned to the sunlight, and shook her yellow head, and whispered to her neighbour, winter is dead. A.A. Milne.

"If winter comes, can spring be far behind". Shelly.

It is of course officially spring, and these two quotes sum up the feelings of many folks, that springtime is a truly welcome and energizing time of year. We all look forward to the evenings stretching and the weather getting warmer and the buds appearing , and the flowers blooming. It is truly a remarkable season full of life, promise, and colour.

This is also reflected in the clothing trade, fabrics get lighter, colours get brighter, and this can be seen very clearly as you walk into a shop that has their new spring summer collection on display. Of course at Ej menswear this is no exception, after having looked at the Autumn winter collection for six months it is an uplifting sight to see the new spring/summer stock arriving. We eagerly anticipate the arrival of each new box and start planning our merchandising, and marketing of our new ranges. In our artice this time we will be featuring one brand in particular that has a vast fanbase and is the well known GANT USA. Mr Bernard Gantmacher arrived in New York in 1914 an emigrant from the Ukraine. He went straight into the garment district in Manhattan and secured his first job as a collar/sewing specialist in a downtown factory. A few years later he met his future wife, a button and buttonhole specialist who worked for the same company. Their sons Marty, and Elliot along with their cousin started a family business in New Haven as a sub contractor manufacturing shirts. Gant is now a Swiss clothing brand after its American heritage, and has since

Gant available at ej Menswear developed into a global clothing business, with Britain and Ireland accounting for ten percent of its yearly turnover.

Here at Ej Menswear we have developed the brand into one of our most successful labels, its a particular favorite with the more mature man. The styles tend to be more classic and their fittings are intended for the fuller shape with sizes from small up to treble extra large. We stock their jackets, knitwear, shirts, polo shirts, jeans, chinos, t shirts, underwear, belts and their footwear. We have just received some of the range for 2013 and its truly a breath of fresh air. The new range includes some new colours and styles. For instance there has been a lovely persian blue colour added to the chino range and in a cotton jean/style pants a light blue colour along with the regular navy and beige. In the knitwear collection we have a lightweight cotton pullover in a baby blue, and a cerise pink for the more daring individual.

Fabrics that are synonymous with spring/summer are of course cotton and linen and this year we have a lovely linen trouser which are cool, and comfortable to wear. Their shirts are fabulous. As originally shirt manufacturers they certainly excel in this area. With some classic Bengal stripes, plain Oxford cloth button down shirts in pale blue and pink.

Back after a long abscense from our trade is the cotton sear/sucker in a soft blue and white stripe. Some of our pictures feature a retired customer of ours, one Tony Groves, now living in Geevagh he kindly agreed to model some of our new Gant range. So please come in and enjoy the new fresh ambience in Ej Menswear and take a look at our featured brand of the month/Gant menswear. ...See you soon!!

Memories

T

The Bands of our Showband Era

Article and Photos courtesy of Gerry Gallagher www.irish-showbands.com

here were hundreds of them. Irish bands of every size, description and musical genre travelling the roads and borheens of Ireland. They travelled the length and breadth of the country from the 1950's through the mid 1980's. Although "officially" the term showband was coined in the late fifties and was used to describe bands that played a wide variety of music and usually included a "show" during the night, the term was gradually applied to all the bands that played in the 1960's. As the

Irish music scene splintered in the late sixties into pop, country bands, the term was dropped but we still find it the best overall description of the bands of the "ballroom" era. In the early days, they travelled in whatever they could find...bread vans, hearses, and even cars (roof racks and all). In later years, many (if not most) of them travelled in converted Ford Transit vans (like the one pictured right) that were normally used for delivery services.

After a couple of windows were popped into the centre panels, a

row or two of old airplane seats were installed and the band was ready to travel "in style." Although style was a matter of opinion...if you're stuck in the back of a van on a cold and rainy winter's night, it may seem like "a long way to Tipperary," but it's even further to Castletownbere, Co. Cork!

It will be impossible to list all the bands that played the dance halls, ballrooms, marquees, parochial halls, community centres, hotels, and town halls across Ireland but each month we are

planning to feature a band from the west with the help of Gerry Gallagher and www.irish-showbands.com . Apart from a few who enjoy near mythical status (such as the Royal Showband and a handful of others), most bands came together, played for a few years and then either reinvented themselves, changed their name, or just disappeared, their members either returning to civilian life, or scattering to two or three new bands.

For such a small country, it is difficult to comprehend the sheer

The Philomena Begley Story (1968-present)

K

nown as "Ireland’s Queen of Country Music," Philomena Begley has made a firm imprint on the Irish, British and European markets. The fourth of eight children, Philomena enjoyed a typical Irish upbringing with a love for Country music instilled in her from an early age. It also helped that her mother sang while her father played accordion. Philomena was influenced

by Hank Williams and as a child she won ten shillings (75 cents) singing a duet with another girl in Clarrie Hayden’s Traveling Show.

Working in Fishers Hat Factory in Cookstown, County Tyrone during the day, Philomena joined the Old Cross Ceili Band to occupy her time at night. In the process she gained a husband (a band member) and cut

Page 24 Mature Living February 2013

her first record, My Little Son (1968). Two more records were released under the Old Cross banner, Old Ardboe and The Box It Came In, but neither made an impression on the Irish Charts.

Around this time (1970-71), the band signed with Dublin based promoter Nelius O'Connell and reflecting the increasing popularity of Country music in Ireland, the band’s name was promptly changed to the Country Flavour. The lineup included John O'Neill (accordion-we think), Kevin Casey (drums), Michael McNally (RIP-guitar), Philomena Begley (vocals), Pat Hamill (fiddle), Dan O'Hara (RIP-guitar/vocals), Brian McNally (RIP-bass), Tom Quinn (keyboards).

Riding the crest of the new country wave in Ireland, the band started having a greater impact. In 1971 the band made the Irish Top 10 with Here Today, Gone Tomorrow and Never Again and they were on their way. For the next few years, the band enjoyed growing success, but as often happened on the showband circuit, success created problems as well.

Around 1974, change was in the air again. The band left Nelius O'Connell and signed with the growing Top Rank Organisation under Tony Loughman. The band lineup underwent wholesale changes with only Dan O'Hara and Tom Quinn remaining from the previous band. The band's new name was the Ramblin’ Men. This band would last for 10 years and have many Irish hits. Among them were Ramblin’ Man, a cover of Blanket on the Ground (which Philomena took to No. 5, while Billie Jo Spears only took her original to No.11), Wait a Little Longer, Once Around the Dance Floor and Whiskey Drinkin’ You. There were also duet successes with Ray Lynam of the Hillbillies, including You’re the One I Can’t Live Without and My Elusive Dreams. In addition, the duo released two albums. More recently

Philomena has duetted with rising Irish singer Mick Flavin, enjoying a single success with, ‘Til A Tear Becomes a Rose and cutting an album with him, In Harmony. Among her many notable albums is Country, Scots and Irish, in which she combined songs from or about the two countries.

Philomena first visited the United States in 1977, appearing in Boston, New York and Chicago. Her impact was such that the following year, while visiting Nashville, Porter Wagoner invited her to guest on the Grand Ole Opry. In addition, he also produced several singles and albums recorded in his Fireside Studios in Nashville, including Philomena’s Country. Philomena has also appeared on the International Show at Fan Fair. She was also a regular performer at the prestigious Wembley Country Music Festival in England and has also been in demand over the years to support American Country acts whenever they played Britain and Ireland; among these have been Don Williams and Glen Campbell.

In January 1984, Philomena signed with Ritz Records, Ireland’s premier country label, and released a series of albums. In addition, K-Tel released her collection, The Best of Philomena Begley, and it achieved Platinum

status. Philomena has also toured extensively as the top of the bill in country clubs, both in her native Ireland, and across the UK. Philomena has also expanded into European dates and in October 1992, Philomena participated in a two-hour special on the satellite radio program, Quality Europe FM, whose potential audience was 150 million people. There was a tremendous response, with phone requests from all over the continent to hear her material. Philomena has appeared extensively on Irish TV, has made a live video and received numerous awards for her achievements.

During 1983 she received the European Gold Star Award in Holland. Perhaps the most significant accolade was the British Country Music Association award in November 1992 in recognition of Philomena Begley’s contribution to the development of country music in Britain. Philomena Begley’s success is in large part due to her ability to handle a wide range of material, whether it be original songs or covers given the Begley treatment. She’s been in the business for over 30 years and retirement is still far from the horizon. When she’s not touring or recording, Philomena relaxes on her family farm.

All editorial and photographs are kindly supplied by Gerry Gallagher from www.irish-shownbands.com Over the years Gerry has built up what can only be describe as the definitive guide to the showband era.

I would like to thank Gerry for allowing us to reproduce the articles and photos in Mature Living. If you would like to know more about your favourite band or who was number one in a particular year visit www.irish-showbands.com number of bands that the country produced. Almost as hard to imagine, is the number of dance halls that once dotted the countryside, many out in the "middle of nowhere." Pick up next months issue for another blast from the blast from the showband era...

Top singles - 1974 1. Red Hurley - Love Is All (Release) 2. Larry Cunningham & Country Blueboys - My Kathleen 3. Brendan Grace - Combine Harvester (Solo) 4. Johnny McEvoy - Where My Eileen Is Waiting (Hawk) 5. John Glen & Mainliners - Sunny Side of the Mountain (Denver) 6. Swarbriggs - That's What Friends Are For (EMI) 7. Swarbriggs - Funny (EMI) 8. Fran O'Toole & Miami - Love Is (Emerald) 9. Spud - The Wind In the Willows [Bread and Fishes] (Philips) 10. Philomena Begley - Blanket On the Ground (Top Spin) 11. Brendan Grace - Delilah (Solo) 12. Margo - The Girls From Donegal (IRL) 13. Two's Company - You're My Best Friend (Release) 14. Gina, Dale Haze & Champions - Minnie Minnie (Release) 15. Magic & Swallows - Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen (Play) 16. Dermot O'Brien - The Boys of Killybegs (Release) 17. Chips - Love Matters (Ton) 18. Johnny McEvoy - The Rose of Allendale (Hawk) 19. Rory O'Connor & Dixies - Una Paloma Blanca (Play) 20. Ian Corrigan & Country Style - County Cavan (Release) 21. Ray Lynam & Hillbillies - The Door Is Always Open (Release) 22. Brendan Shine - I'll Be Home (Play) 23. Glen Curtin - Love (Polydor) 24. Tony Kenny - Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song (Ram) 25. Dermot O'Brien - The Green Fields of Ferbane (Release) 26. Brian Coll - Mail Call (Release) 27. Ray Lynam & Hillbillies - I've Loved You All Over the World () 28. Magic & Swallows - Run Sampson Run (Play) 29. Brendan Shine - Dun Laoghaire (Play) 30. Dermot Hegarty - Only Her Rivers Run Free (Release) 31. Chips - Twice A Week (Rex) 32. Joe Dolan - The Most Wanted Man In the USA (Pye) 33. Swarbriggs - Shuffle Into My Heart (EMI) 34. Sonny Knowles - Not That I Care (rex) 35. Gene Stuart & Homesteaders - Where Is My Norah (Hawk) 36. Brendan Quinn - Wedding Bells (Hawk) 37. Barleycorn - Songs of Ireland (Dolphin) 38. Teddi Palmer & Rumble Band - Is Everybody Happy (Polydor) 39. Tony Kenny - I'll Have To Say I Love You In A Song (Ram) 40. Paddy McGuigan - I Was Only Dreaming (Dolphin) 41. Wolfe Tones - Rock On Rockall (Dolphin) 42. Aileach - Lullaby (EMI) 43. Just 4 - Glad All Over (Play) 44. Teddi Palmer & Rumble Band - Summer Love (Polydor) 45. Geraldine - Toi [You] (EMI) 46. DJ Curtin - One More Time (Release) 47. Tony Hughes & Harvest - Rose Marie (Release) 48. Tina & Glen Curtin - All Through the Night (Polydor)

Page 25 Mature Living February 2013

Memories

T

The Bands of our Showband Era

Article and Photos courtesy of Gerry Gallagher www.irish-showbands.com

here were hundreds of them. Irish bands of every size, description and musical genre travelling the roads and borheens of Ireland. They travelled the length and breadth of the country from the 1950's through the mid 1980's. Although "officially" the term showband was coined in the late fifties and was used to describe bands that played a wide variety of music and usually included a "show" during the night, the term was gradually applied to all the bands that played in the 1960's. As the

Irish music scene splintered in the late sixties into pop, country bands, the term was dropped but we still find it the best overall description of the bands of the "ballroom" era. In the early days, they travelled in whatever they could find...bread vans, hearses, and even cars (roof racks and all). In later years, many (if not most) of them travelled in converted Ford Transit vans (like the one pictured right) that were normally used for delivery services.

After a couple of windows were popped into the centre panels, a

row or two of old airplane seats were installed and the band was ready to travel "in style." Although style was a matter of opinion...if you're stuck in the back of a van on a cold and rainy winter's night, it may seem like "a long way to Tipperary," but it's even further to Castletownbere, Co. Cork!

It will be impossible to list all the bands that played the dance halls, ballrooms, marquees, parochial halls, community centres, hotels, and town halls across Ireland but each month we are

planning to feature a band from the west with the help of Gerry Gallagher and www.irish-showbands.com . Apart from a few who enjoy near mythical status (such as the Royal Showband and a handful of others), most bands came together, played for a few years and then either reinvented themselves, changed their name, or just disappeared, their members either returning to civilian life, or scattering to two or three new bands.

For such a small country, it is difficult to comprehend the sheer

The Philomena Begley Story (1968-present)

K

nown as "Ireland’s Queen of Country Music," Philomena Begley has made a firm imprint on the Irish, British and European markets. The fourth of eight children, Philomena enjoyed a typical Irish upbringing with a love for Country music instilled in her from an early age. It also helped that her mother sang while her father played accordion. Philomena was influenced

by Hank Williams and as a child she won ten shillings (75 cents) singing a duet with another girl in Clarrie Hayden’s Traveling Show.

Working in Fishers Hat Factory in Cookstown, County Tyrone during the day, Philomena joined the Old Cross Ceili Band to occupy her time at night. In the process she gained a husband (a band member) and cut

Page 24 Mature Living February 2013

her first record, My Little Son (1968). Two more records were released under the Old Cross banner, Old Ardboe and The Box It Came In, but neither made an impression on the Irish Charts.

Around this time (1970-71), the band signed with Dublin based promoter Nelius O'Connell and reflecting the increasing popularity of Country music in Ireland, the band’s name was promptly changed to the Country Flavour. The lineup included John O'Neill (accordion-we think), Kevin Casey (drums), Michael McNally (RIP-guitar), Philomena Begley (vocals), Pat Hamill (fiddle), Dan O'Hara (RIP-guitar/vocals), Brian McNally (RIP-bass), Tom Quinn (keyboards).

Riding the crest of the new country wave in Ireland, the band started having a greater impact. In 1971 the band made the Irish Top 10 with Here Today, Gone Tomorrow and Never Again and they were on their way. For the next few years, the band enjoyed growing success, but as often happened on the showband circuit, success created problems as well.

Around 1974, change was in the air again. The band left Nelius O'Connell and signed with the growing Top Rank Organisation under Tony Loughman. The band lineup underwent wholesale changes with only Dan O'Hara and Tom Quinn remaining from the previous band. The band's new name was the Ramblin’ Men. This band would last for 10 years and have many Irish hits. Among them were Ramblin’ Man, a cover of Blanket on the Ground (which Philomena took to No. 5, while Billie Jo Spears only took her original to No.11), Wait a Little Longer, Once Around the Dance Floor and Whiskey Drinkin’ You. There were also duet successes with Ray Lynam of the Hillbillies, including You’re the One I Can’t Live Without and My Elusive Dreams. In addition, the duo released two albums. More recently

Philomena has duetted with rising Irish singer Mick Flavin, enjoying a single success with, ‘Til A Tear Becomes a Rose and cutting an album with him, In Harmony. Among her many notable albums is Country, Scots and Irish, in which she combined songs from or about the two countries.

Philomena first visited the United States in 1977, appearing in Boston, New York and Chicago. Her impact was such that the following year, while visiting Nashville, Porter Wagoner invited her to guest on the Grand Ole Opry. In addition, he also produced several singles and albums recorded in his Fireside Studios in Nashville, including Philomena’s Country. Philomena has also appeared on the International Show at Fan Fair. She was also a regular performer at the prestigious Wembley Country Music Festival in England and has also been in demand over the years to support American Country acts whenever they played Britain and Ireland; among these have been Don Williams and Glen Campbell.

In January 1984, Philomena signed with Ritz Records, Ireland’s premier country label, and released a series of albums. In addition, K-Tel released her collection, The Best of Philomena Begley, and it achieved Platinum

status. Philomena has also toured extensively as the top of the bill in country clubs, both in her native Ireland, and across the UK. Philomena has also expanded into European dates and in October 1992, Philomena participated in a two-hour special on the satellite radio program, Quality Europe FM, whose potential audience was 150 million people. There was a tremendous response, with phone requests from all over the continent to hear her material. Philomena has appeared extensively on Irish TV, has made a live video and received numerous awards for her achievements.

During 1983 she received the European Gold Star Award in Holland. Perhaps the most significant accolade was the British Country Music Association award in November 1992 in recognition of Philomena Begley’s contribution to the development of country music in Britain. Philomena Begley’s success is in large part due to her ability to handle a wide range of material, whether it be original songs or covers given the Begley treatment. She’s been in the business for over 30 years and retirement is still far from the horizon. When she’s not touring or recording, Philomena relaxes on her family farm.

All editorial and photographs are kindly supplied by Gerry Gallagher from www.irish-shownbands.com Over the years Gerry has built up what can only be describe as the definitive guide to the showband era.

I would like to thank Gerry for allowing us to reproduce the articles and photos in Mature Living. If you would like to know more about your favourite band or who was number one in a particular year visit www.irish-showbands.com number of bands that the country produced. Almost as hard to imagine, is the number of dance halls that once dotted the countryside, many out in the "middle of nowhere." Pick up next months issue for another blast from the blast from the showband era...

Top singles - 1974 1. Red Hurley - Love Is All (Release) 2. Larry Cunningham & Country Blueboys - My Kathleen 3. Brendan Grace - Combine Harvester (Solo) 4. Johnny McEvoy - Where My Eileen Is Waiting (Hawk) 5. John Glen & Mainliners - Sunny Side of the Mountain (Denver) 6. Swarbriggs - That's What Friends Are For (EMI) 7. Swarbriggs - Funny (EMI) 8. Fran O'Toole & Miami - Love Is (Emerald) 9. Spud - The Wind In the Willows [Bread and Fishes] (Philips) 10. Philomena Begley - Blanket On the Ground (Top Spin) 11. Brendan Grace - Delilah (Solo) 12. Margo - The Girls From Donegal (IRL) 13. Two's Company - You're My Best Friend (Release) 14. Gina, Dale Haze & Champions - Minnie Minnie (Release) 15. Magic & Swallows - Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen (Play) 16. Dermot O'Brien - The Boys of Killybegs (Release) 17. Chips - Love Matters (Ton) 18. Johnny McEvoy - The Rose of Allendale (Hawk) 19. Rory O'Connor & Dixies - Una Paloma Blanca (Play) 20. Ian Corrigan & Country Style - County Cavan (Release) 21. Ray Lynam & Hillbillies - The Door Is Always Open (Release) 22. Brendan Shine - I'll Be Home (Play) 23. Glen Curtin - Love (Polydor) 24. Tony Kenny - Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song (Ram) 25. Dermot O'Brien - The Green Fields of Ferbane (Release) 26. Brian Coll - Mail Call (Release) 27. Ray Lynam & Hillbillies - I've Loved You All Over the World () 28. Magic & Swallows - Run Sampson Run (Play) 29. Brendan Shine - Dun Laoghaire (Play) 30. Dermot Hegarty - Only Her Rivers Run Free (Release) 31. Chips - Twice A Week (Rex) 32. Joe Dolan - The Most Wanted Man In the USA (Pye) 33. Swarbriggs - Shuffle Into My Heart (EMI) 34. Sonny Knowles - Not That I Care (rex) 35. Gene Stuart & Homesteaders - Where Is My Norah (Hawk) 36. Brendan Quinn - Wedding Bells (Hawk) 37. Barleycorn - Songs of Ireland (Dolphin) 38. Teddi Palmer & Rumble Band - Is Everybody Happy (Polydor) 39. Tony Kenny - I'll Have To Say I Love You In A Song (Ram) 40. Paddy McGuigan - I Was Only Dreaming (Dolphin) 41. Wolfe Tones - Rock On Rockall (Dolphin) 42. Aileach - Lullaby (EMI) 43. Just 4 - Glad All Over (Play) 44. Teddi Palmer & Rumble Band - Summer Love (Polydor) 45. Geraldine - Toi [You] (EMI) 46. DJ Curtin - One More Time (Release) 47. Tony Hughes & Harvest - Rose Marie (Release) 48. Tina & Glen Curtin - All Through the Night (Polydor)

Page 25 Mature Living February 2013

Travel

Maastricht, Holland

If you prefer not to feel part of the herd, shepherded from tacky souvenir shop to jam-packed monument in Paris or Rome, it’s time to try a European city you may not have heard of but will be glad to discover.

T

here are still plenty of European treasures that the cold war left out of bounds for decades or that the happy-snappy hordes have for other reasons left alone.

These under-the-radar destinations are, what's more, typically cheap. The lowestcost flights are often to the least frequented airports, and you'll find city prices there aren’t inflated for tourists – all the more reason to visit in these credit crunch times.

You heard about them here first: get the first taste of 10 unsung European beauties.

Klagenfurt, Austria

the chalk labyrinth inside Sint Pietersberg hill. The former marlstone works are where the first dinosaur fossils were identified, in the 18th century. The walls are studded with the remains of prehistoric sea creatures and branch off with shelters used during the second world war and by refugees from the French revolution.

Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Birmingham, England

Statistics show overseas tourists are flocking to Birmingham, yet many Brits still turn their noses up at the city. Perhaps they picture this one-time workshop of the world as still full of dark satanic mills and overflowing with polluted canals.

Avoid Britain's second largest city, however, and you're missing out on a rough-and-ready treasure on your doorstep. In the heart of Brum your nose might lead you not to factories belching smoke but to the so-called Balti triangle – an array of inexpensive eating houses serving famously delicious curry recipes invented by Birmingham Pakistanis.

Grand old buildings and cutting-edge architecture vie for your attention in the city centre’s spacious squares. The mirrorball-shaped Selfridge colossus in the Bullring shopping centre, a former brutalist concrete blot, is worth the trip alone.

Surely Alpine towns have been fully tapped for tourism? Not so. Klagenfurt, the capital of the Austrian state of Carinthia, may have been overshadowed by Salzburg and Vienna but it lays plausible claim to being the country’s most scenic city.

For what Klagenfurt lacks in Viennesestyle architectural splendour (although it does boast grand Italian Renaissance buildings) the southern city makes up for in its setting. It sits beside the warm turquoise water of Wörthersee lake, with the Karawanken mountains bordering Italy and Slovenia looming behind it.

The city is also surrounded by 24 fairytale medieval castles. Don’t leave without trying the local barley broth or cheesy pastries called kasnudle.

Maastricht, Holland Limburg province is quite different from the rest of the Netherlands: for a start, it’s hilly. The tongue-shaped peninsular in the south of the country is flanked by Belgium and Germany but has its own distinct (Catholic) flavour.

In contrast with some of the other cities here, many people will have heard of Limburg's capital, Maastricht, but for reasons that are likely to provoke a yawn.

Far more compelling than its association with the EU treaty, however, are the city's medieval ramparts, Notre Dame-like twintowered cathedral, jazz and blues bars and a convivial café atmosphere bolstered by university students.

Arguably the most fascinating sight is

Page 26 Mature Living February 2013

This less famous city of seven hills was humming before Rome and Constantinople were twinkles in the gods’ eyes. Bulgaria’s

Stavanger, Norway

second city, founded by the Thracians five millennia ago, has hung on to its ancient treasures as well – Soviet vandalism didn’t destroy its 200 historic sights.

Jostling for attention with the Roman stadium and amphitheatres is the old town with its local Baroque-style architecture, lavishly decorative on the outside and inside.

The atmospheric city is oppressively hot in summer and covered in snow most winters; autumn is the mellow season. Any of the hills are good for sunset views; the old town, which covers three hills, is full of art galleries and painters’ stalls.

Charter flights have recently become available from most UK airports, a sign Plovdiv could be the next big destination.

Stavanger, Norway Since a ferry from Newcastle stopped running to Stavanger in September 2008, Brits have had a harder time getting to this picturesque Norwegian port city (although there are flights from Heathrow). The withdrawal of the service was a bit of a blow for Stavanger during its tenure as European Capital of Culture, alongside Liverpool, but for the intrepid visitor it means you can enjoy the city without the crowds.

While Liverpool has the Fab Four,

long strip between the Dniester river in Moldova and the Ukrainian border – looks can deceive. The city appears stuck in an immaculate Soviet time warp, with statues of Lenin and red stars galore – yet the government is firmly anti-Communist.

The slim official tourist guide boasts about how green Tiraspol is and recommends a "tree garden" in the centre and, 10km out, the Butylka wine and cognac museum in "the world’s largest bottle-shaped building", at 28m high.

Tiraspol is worth a look not for any grandeur or beauty – unless you find ultrafunctionalist concrete complexes alluring – but for the curiously kitsch thrill of being inside this living USSR museum, complete with a tank parked in the centre.

Tirana, Albania Stavanger has a fab fjord. Base-jumpers and paragliders head for a 1,000m sheer drop nearby the city, while Pulpit Rock is the safest place for more sedate visitors to enjoy the dramatic views.

Stavanger itself has the oldest cathedral in Norway, the Anglo-Norman and Gothic St Swithin’s, surrounded by 200-year-old wooden buildings.

Tours, France This hub of the Loire Valley is ideal for French-language students, as locals are said to speak the purest, most eloquent and unaccented French in the world.

But even if you only parlez Franglais, Tours is worthy of a tour, particularly as it’s less than an hour’s flying time from London Stansted.

The best way to get around this city known as le jardin de la France is on two wheels. Pedal through the narrow streets to see the half-timbered restored rustic houses in the old quarter, marvel at the cathedral in "flamboyant Gothic" style and

Tirana, Albania Welcome to Europe’s most anarchic city.

In two decades, the population of Albania’s capital has swelled more than fourfold, to 800,000 residents (at last count) as the impoverished rural population migrates en masse.

In the past few years, in an attempt to cheer up the populace, the concrete highrises have been painted in all the colours of the rainbow so the cityscape looks like an out-of-control version of the island of Balamory from the BBC children's TV series.

But Tirana’s most splendid sights have to be the mosque and huge mosaic in Skanderberg Square. They are perhaps the only constants within this city in full flux.

Tiraspol, Moldova In the capital of the unrecognised breakaway republic of Pridnestrovie, also known as Transnistria – a narrow, 250-mile-

Tours, France

follow riverside cycle tracks to some of the 300 lavish royal chateaux situated along the Loire and Cher, which both flow through Tours. The restaurants in medieval Place Plumereau serve Touraine wines with rillettes, rillons and controversial foie gras.

Uglich, Russia Seemingly untouched by the ravages of Russian history, the mellow Volga city of

Uglich, 130 miles downstream from Moscow, is most famous for being the site of the mysterious unsolved murder of Ivan the Terrible’s young son. The crimson Church of St Dmitri on the Blood ensures no one will forget the gory events of 1591.

The city's traders are prepared for cruise day-trippers, with souvenir stalls set up close to the ships and brass bands playing on the quay, but Uglich deserves a more lingering look to soak up its rich architectural relics.

Be sure to visit the triple-tower Marvellous Assumption church and the medieval Alekseevsky monastery – or simply get wedged in at the Vodka Museum, where samples are included in the admission price.

Wroclaw, Poland Poland’s answer to Venice (pronounced – if you can – vrotswahf) perches on an archipelago on the River Oder in Lower Silesia.

Now a buzzing student centre, the city of 100-plus bridges rose like a phoenix from its bombed-out shell to become a post-war cosmopolitan and cultural hotpot, thanks to its assimilation of highcultured Poles from Lwow (Lviv, in Ukrainian) when that city was transferred from Poland to Ukraine in 1945.

The pride of Wroclaw is the Raclawice panorama, a 140m-long canvas depicting a 1794 battle in which the Poles beat the Russian Hussars.

Page 27 Mature Living February 2013

Food and Drink

Stuffed shoulder of lamb Preparation method For the stuffing, fry the onion in a frying pan in the butter until softened.

Add the lamb’s liver and cook for a few minutes.

Remove from the heat and cool before adding the remaining stuffing ingredients.

Spread the stuffing across the length of the boned lamb, tie it into a roll with kitchen string.

This can be done the day before and refrigerated overnight.

Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4.

Put the lamb on a roasting tray, cover

For the stuffing 1 small onion Knob of butter 140g/5oz lamb’s liver, chopped 450g/1lb pork sausage meat 85g/3oz breadcrumbs 1 small lemon, zest only 1 tsp dried or fresh thyme 1 free-range egg 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional) salt and freshly ground black pepper For the lamb 1.6kg/3.5lb boned shoulder of lamb

with foil and roast for 2¼ hours.

Remove the foil for the final half hour of cooking.

Place the lamb in a warm place to rest.

For the gravy, heat the dripping in a pan and fry the onion until softened. Add the flour and stir until all the flour is absorbed. Pour in the port and cook until the volume of liquid has reduced by half.

Pour in the stock and cook again until the volume of liquid has reduced by half again. Add the redcurrant jelly, salt, freshly ground pepper, nutmeg and gravy browning to taste.

buttered peas, to serve scalloped potatoes, to serve For the gravy 28g/1oz dripping ½ onion, chopped 28g/1oz plain flour 75ml/2½fl oz port 150ml/¼ pint stock 1 tsp redcurrant jelly salt and freshly ground black pepper a pinch of nutmeg a dash gravy browning

Bread & Butter Pudding

A great family favourite as pudding to follow a weekend lunch. I have to admit, the recipe is not economical – just delicious! Ideally use a rectangular dish simply because the bread fits it better. If you are not keen on sultanas, just leave them out.

Ingredients 150g/5oz mixed sultanas and raisins 75g/3oz caster sugar 1 lemon or orange, finely grated zest ½ tsp mixed spice 8 thin slices white bread, crusts removed 100g/4oz butter, melted For the custard 2 free-range eggs 300ml/½ pint double cream 150ml/¼ pint milk 2 tbsp demerara sugar Preparation method You will need an ovenproof dish about 2½-3 pint/1.4-1.7 litres volume (18 x 23 x 5 cm/7 x

Page 28 Mature Living February 2013

9 x 2 in).

Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4 and use some of the melted butter to grease the dish.

Combine the dried fruit, sugar, lemon zest and spice together in a bowl and toss to mix well.

Cut each bread slice into three strips. Take sufficient slices to cover the base of the dish and dip one side of each one in melted butter. Lay them in the dish, buttered-side down. Sprinkle with half the dried fruit mixture. Repeat the layering, laying the bread strips buttered-side up. Lay the third and final layer of bread strips on top, buttered-side up.

For the custard, beat together the eggs, cream and milk in a bowl and pour it over the pudding. Sprinkle with demerara sugar, and then leave to stand for about one hour if time allows.

Bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden-brown and crisp and the pudding slightly puffed up. Serve hot, or there are some who insist that it is delicious cold!

Food and Drink

The Classic Lasagne

This is a classic lasagne recipe which has been perfected over the years. For the best results leave the lasagne to stand for six hours before cooking.

For the ragu 2 tbsp olive oil 900g/2lb minced beef 2 onions, roughly chopped 4 sticks celery, diced (optional) 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 tbsp chopped thyme 2 level tbsp plain flour 150ml/¼ pint beef stock 1 tbsp redcurrant jelly (optional) or 1 tsp sugar 3 tbsp tomato purée 2 x 400g/14oz can chopped tomatoes For the white sauce 50g/2oz butter 50g/2oz plain flour 750ml/1¼ pints hot milk 2 tsp Dijon mustard 50g/2oz parmesan cheese, grated salt and pepper For the lasagne 6-8 sheets lasagne 75g/3oz mature cheddar cheese, grated

Preparation method Preheat the oven to160C/325F/Gas 3.

For the ragu, heat a large frying pan until hot and add the oil. Cook the mince until browned all over. Remove from the heat.

Add the onion, celery (if using) and garlic to the pan and cook until softened.

Return the meat to the pan and stir in the flour. Add the stock and bring to the boil.

Add the redcurrant jelly (or sugar) and tomato purée and stir well.

Stir in the canned tomatoes. Bring to the boil again, cover and simmer in the oven

for 1-½ hours, or until the beef is tender.

For the white sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan. Add the flour and cook over the heat for one minute. Gradually whisk in the hot milk, whisking until thickened.

Add the Dijon mustard and parmesan cheese and season well with salt and pepper.

For the lasagne, put one third of the

meat sauce in the base of a 2.3 litre/4 pint shallow ovenproof dish. Spoon one third of the white sauce on top. Arrange one layer of lasagne sheets on top.

Season. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce on top and then half of the white sauce. Put another layer of lasagne sheets on top, then the remaining meat sauce and remaining white sauce.

Sprinkle over the cheddar cheese.

Leave for six hours before cooking so that the pasta can start to soften.

Preheat the oven temperature to 200C/400F/Gas 6.

Cook in the middle of the oven for about 45 minutes- or until golden brown on top, bubbling around the edges and the pasta is soft.

Superfish you should be eating

Salmon isn't the only healthy fish in the sea. These others help your heart and brain, too. These fish are "super" because they're packed with disease-fighting nutrients. Add them to your diet to reap their health benefits.

Rainbow Trout With 20 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving, trout boasts almost 1,000 milligrams of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. A new study reveals that these good fats may protect against cognitive

decline, according to Columbia University researchers.

new study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.

Catfish This Southern staple offers 100 percent of the daily requirement for energysupplying vitamin B12 (more than most cuts of beef provide), which is good news for the up to 30 percent of adults 50 or older who are at risk of B12 deficiency.

Adequate vitamin B12 intake may also protect against cognitive decline by slowing the rate of brain shrinkage, a 2011 study in the journal Neurology found.

Pollock Popular as fish sticks, pollock is just as tasty (and healthier) in fillet form.

One serving supplies 73 per cent of your daily need for selenium, a mineral that may lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 24 percent, Harvard School of Public Health researchers showed.

Sardines Both the meat and the minuscule bones of canned sardines are edible.

One 3-ounce serving supplies more calcium than a cup of low-fat milk and nearly 30 percent of the recommended daily allowance for vitamin D. The two nutrients work together to decrease your risk of premature mortality by 7 percent, according to a

Mackerel This oily fish is one of the best dietary sources of vitamin D. "Vitamin D deficiency is common, particularly for those living in northern latitudes," says Rachel Begun, spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Vitamin D also plays an important role in bone health, mood and immunity.

Barramundi A mild-tasting white fish, barramundi offers twice the recommended daily intake of omega-3s (nearly 500 milligrams) per serving.

Page 29 Mature Living February 2013

Petcare

7 popular excuses vets get from pet owners

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ou may be surprised (or not) to hear how often pet owners make excuses for their pets — and themselves. Here are seven of my favorites.

1. She’s Not Fat! It’s just fur. She’s a solid dog. The breed is supposed to look that way. Her coat just makes it look like she’s carrying a few extra pounds. She’s big boned and beefy by nature. She just ate and always looks bloated afterward.

None of these excuses tends to work on me.

Sorry. Still, if you want to euphemize by calling her Rubenesque, that’s OK with me. But let’s be clear on what shape of woman Rubens was extra fond of.

2. She’s Never Done That Before!

This is the excuse that comes after the pet has [insert obviously unsafe practice here] and managed to (predictably) get herself into trouble.

Jumping out of the back of a pickup truck in rush hour traffic qualifies — as does swallowing a bone whole, so that it needs to be cut out of her intestines.

Allowing a “strong swimmer” to try her luck during a rip current advisory is one choice example that you can file under “What were they thinking?”

3. She Won’t Let Me Brush Her Teeth.

It’s not necessarily an overy falsehood, but nine out of 10 times, my clients never gave tooth brushing a good try — despite the YouTube videos on the subject I’m wont to recommend.

4. She’ll Starve If I Don't Feed Her This Way. For cats (especially fat ones), I worry that they’ll develop fatty liver disease if they miss even a couple of meals in a row.

Still, this doesn't mean that you can't make a serious effort to switch over to a more appropriate, veterinarian-

recommended diet if your cat or dog is overweight. I mean, what will you do when she refuses to adapt to a specialised diet that she may require one day?

7. My Dog Does Not Bite.

Oh, really? Then what are those teeth marks doing on my hands?

5. I Only Feed Her "This" Much.

Clients almost always hold up their thumb and forefinger one centimeter apart while delivering this message, but that doesn’t make me even one bit more willing to believe that they’re feeding her less than that porker deserves (this term, by the way, is used with much love and only positive intentions).

Whatever they’re feeding — I don’t care if they swear that it’s just five kibbles a day — I’ll tell them that it’s too much.

6. That Lump Showed Up Overnight.

You may have noticed that thing just last night, but be honest with yourself: Do you really think that a golf ball-sized tumor appeared over the course of eight hours? Not likely.

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Travel Technology

Computer maintenance basics

Understanding computers may seem daunting, but using the Task Manager to improve general performance couldn't be simpler.

C

omputers can be confusing and infinitely frustrating to the user who doesn’t understand them – a demographic that makes up a large portion of the computer owners of the world.

Knock on the door of any home in the country and ask its residents how well they understand their computers. Most will admit they know enough to point, click and open their Internet browser. A smaller portion will say they have a basic understanding of a handful of popular programs, like Outlook Express, Microsoft Office, or iTunes … meaning they can open and use the programs, but can’t troubleshoot them for typical problems.

Although they really are confusing, computers don’t have to be confounding to the everyday user, even when they’re bogged down, glitchy or downright troublesome. With a few simple tips and common-sense approaches, anyone can take control of how their computer runs – no degree required.

and control how much work a computer does through a Windows program called the Task Manager.

A user can access the Task Manager through a number of routes. The famous keyboard shortcut Control+Alt+Delete (CAD, or Control+Shift+Escape, CSE) is one of the quickest. In the Task Manager window, there are two tabs the novice user should be concerned with. The first (the one that opens with CAD) is the Applications tab, which tells the user which dominant programs – i.e., programs the user is running – are turned on. The second tab is the Processes tab (which opens with CSE). This tab tells the user exactly what the computer is thinking about, beyond simply what programs the user is running.

Computers are constantly crunching information. Before a user even opens his Internet browser, there are scores of miniature, background programs the computer has to run to remain usable.

The Processes tab outlines all of these programs and gives the user the control to shut each one of them off. * BEWARE: Many of these processes are integral to the computer’s functionality, so don’t start deleting them at random.

Manage tasks with the Task Manager

The processes are organized according to a number of fields that run along the top of the Processes tab. Click on the User Name field to arrange them according to that field. This should arrange them into four groups: System, Local Service, Network Service, and the computer user’s name. * WARNING: Only those listed under the computer user’s name should be tampered with. The processes under the other three fields are integral to the operation of the computer, and should under no circumstances be deleted except by a professional.

If a computer is working slowly, there’s a good reason. There are three elements that factor into a computer’s speed – its processor, its RAM (random access memory), and the amount of work its doing, i.e. how many programs its running. The processor and the RAM are hardware issues best left for a professional, but any user can monitor

For a smoothly running computer, there should realistically be only a handful of processes running under the computer user’s name. These will include “explorer.exe” (which creates the graphic user interface – the visual desktop and windows the user can manipulate), “taskmgr.exe” (the Task Manager window currently open), and a few other innocuous processes like ctfmon.exe, Monitor.exe and jusched.exe. Aside from those and any processes controlling your currently open programs (like firefox.exe if you’re running Mozilla Firefox to browse the

Internet), the Task Manager should be relatively free of clutter.

If it’s slowing down, clean it up If a computer is performing sluggishly, it’s probably crunching too many numbers. A computer is only capable of thinking about so much at any given time. The more requests and commands that get stacked onto its processor and bottlenecked in its RAM, the slower it operates. To improve performance, cleaning up the user’s processes is almost always the first place to start.

If the Task Manager looks cluttered, the user should get rid of as many user processes as possible. Any time a user is unsure about a process, simply Google it and find out what it is. A quick search

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will easily point the user to which processes are necessary and which are not. Once the processes have been pared down to an integral handful and the Task Manager is finally uncluttered, the overall computer performance should greatly increase.

The most important part is to not be scared of the computer. A user should feel at home with his or her computer, and that means more than simply changing the desktop background to fit a mood. The more familiar a user becomes with their computer, and the more they investigate its inner workings, the more comfortable they will feel with troubleshooting its problem issues… and the less apt they will be to shell out handsome sums of money.

Health

9 symptoms you should never ignore

Pain, fever, shortness of breath — when are these a temporary bother or something much worse?

Y

ou wake up one morning with a fever. Or maybe you have a really bad neck ache. How do you know if a symptom is serious or not? "The things that doctors are most concerned about are new symptoms that develop quickly, rather than things that develop over a long period of time.

Another warning sign? That uh-oh feeling that tells you something's not quite right.

You know your body best. When you see or feel something different or just feel 'off,' pay attention; don't dismiss it.

Here are nine symptoms and what they might mean.

1. Sudden Intense Headache The big worries: If you experience head pain unlike any you've had before, especially if it peaks in seconds to minutes in any part of the head, it could signal a ruptured aneurysm, a blood vessel in your brain that suddenly bursts, requiring immediate attention.

In addition, your doctor will want to rule out three other conditions: Cardiac cephalgia: A rare disorder in which reduced blood supply to the heart manifests as a headache and can also cause chest pain and exhaustion with exertion.

Meningitis: A headache often accompanied by a stiff neck, fever and confusion or other changes in mental status.

Temporal Arteritis: A rare illness in which a person's immune cells invade the walls of the arteries that carry blood to the head, causing headache, low-grade fever or pain upon speaking or chewing.

The reason temporal arteritis is such a concern is that it can result in the temporary or permanent loss of vision in one or both eyes. Steroids usually take care of the problem if treatment is prompt.

What else it might be: Shingles can cause pain in the forehead before the notorious skin reaction (shingles is a painful flare-up of the herpes zoster virus that lies dormant in anyone who's had chicken pox). Contrary to common belief, sudden severe headaches are unlikely to be a sign of a brain tumor.

Rather, research shows that two-thirds of patients diagnosed with a brain tumor experienced tension headaches — dull, achy or pressure-like pain — that steadily worsened over a period of weeks to months.

2. Chest Pain The big worries: Any intense discomfort, heaviness or pressure — like an elephant sitting on your chest — could spell heart attack. It may be combined with pain radiating down an arm, nausea and vomiting, sweating, and shortness of

Page 32 Mature Living February 2013

breath. Women can experience more subtle symptoms, like fatigue, a burning sensation or upper abdominal pain. In any case, call 999. If it is a heart attack, a delay could cause the heart muscle to be damaged. If these symptoms occur only during exertion, it could also be angina, which happens when the heart muscle temporarily doesn't get enough blood.

Sudden severe chest or upper-back pain (often described as a ripping sensation) can be caused by a tear in the aorta, known as aortic dissection, which requires immediate attention. Fortunately, this life-threatening condition occurs in only about three out of 100,000 people.

What else it might be: Perhaps 10 to 20 percent of cases of intense chest pain are due not to heart trouble but to gastrointestinal reflux disease [GERD].

Rarely, it could also signal esophageal spasm, an abnormal contraction of the muscles in the esophagus, which carries food from the throat to the stomach.

Both conditions can be treated with medications, but it's always wise to go to the ER: It's a heart attack or angina until proven otherwise.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss The big worries: Losing more than 5 percent of your body weight — without

Health

trying — over a period of six months could mean cancer: Weight loss is a symptom in up to 36 percent of cancers in older people. If you or a family member is suddenly losing weight after trying 400 times before, you have to ask, 'Why is this time the charm?' .

What else it might be: Endocrine disorders are a common cause of unintentional weight loss. Of those with an endocrine disorder (especially hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid), up to 11 percent experience weight loss.

The condition also triggers restlessness, sweating, increased appetite and difficulty concentrating.

If your weight loss is accompanied by extreme thirst or hunger, fatigue and frequent urination, it could be a sign of diabetes.

Gastrointestinal conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease cause weight loss as well — in addition to symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Depression and other psychiatric conditions could be to blame, too.Decreased appetite and weight loss are very common symptoms of depression. But patients with unexplained weight loss should undergo a workup to rule out general medical causes."

4. Unusual Bleeding The big worries: Ulcers and colon cancer

can cause rectal bleeding or black or tarry stools. If you haven't had a colonoscopy recently, talk to your physician. Vaginal bleeding can be linked to gynecologic cancers. Bloody vomit can result from stomach or esophageal cancer, and people with lung cancer can cough up blood. Whenever you see blood where it shouldn't be, see a doctor.

What else it might be: Blood in the stool may be due to hemorrhoids, while blood in the urine may be the result of a bladder or kidney infection. Vaginal bleeding long after menopause may be due to the growth of benign polyps or fibroids. Vomiting blood can result from a tear in the blood vessels or an ulcer in the stomach or esophagus. And coughing up blood can happen with noncancerous conditions, like bronchitis, pneumonia or tuberculosis. There are many common reasons for seeing blood where you don't expect it, but it still has to be checked out and treated.

5. High or Persistent Fever The big worries: Fever is your body's way of fighting infection. But "fever of 103 degrees and higher warrants a trip to the doctor — period. It may indicate a urinary tract infection, pneumonia, endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart chambers and valves) or meningitis, which may require antibiotics to clear up. A persistent low-grade fever — for several weeks — with no obvious cause is characteristic of some infections, including a sinus infection, and some cancers, like lymphoma and leukemia. Cancer is on the list of things we think about, but it is usually not the first thing.

What else it might be: Fever can be triggered by a virus, which, depending on your health and other symptoms, may require hospitalization.

6. Shortness of Breath The big worries: Sudden shortness of breath can indicate a pulmonary embolism — when a blood clot forms in the body's deep veins (usually in the legs), travels to the lungs and gets lodged in the lung's blood vessels.

Suspect an embolism if you've recently traveled, have undergone surgery or have been immobile, and/or your shortness of breath is accompanied by chest pain and coughing up blood. If you find yourself gasping after climbing two

or three stairs or getting tired sooner than you used to, doctors will want to rule out chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), especially if it's accompanied by a cough and fatigue and you have a history of smoking. Irregular heart rhythm, congestive heart failure and other types of heart disease are additional possibilities. When organs aren't getting enough oxygen, breathlessness can result. See a doctor — stat. What else it might be: Shortness of breath can occur with asthma, bronchitis or pneumonia. You can also experience shortness of breath, sometimes with heart palpitations, if you are under extreme emotional distress or anxiety.

Regardless, patients should go to the doctor.

7. Sudden Confusion The big worries: If you're experiencing sudden confusion, personality changes, aggression or an inability to concentrate, it's important to see a doctor right away.

The mortality rate for severe confusion is pretty high. You have to figure out what's going on. In the worst case, a brain tumor or bleeding in the brain could be behind the delirium. If you're also experiencing slurred speech, difficulty finding the right words, or numbness or weakness in the face, hand or leg, stroke is a strong possibility. You have a window of about two to three hours to get to the hospital. Beyond that brain loss may be irreversible.

What else it might be: Medicines and drug-alcohol interactions can also affect your mental state. Plus, confusion can signal an infection, abnormal blood pressure, low blood sugar or dehydration, each of which should be ruled out by a physician.

8. Swelling in the Legs The big worries: An accumulation of fluid (called edema) in the extremities can be caused by a number of conditions, but the one that most concerns doctors is heart failure, when the heart cannot pump as much blood as the body needs.

When that happens, blood backs up in the veins, causing fluid to accumulate in the body's tissues. Swelling of the legs, especially if it is persistent, should never

be ignored. Heart failure is suspected when both legs are affected and the patient also has shortness of breath, fatigue and chest tightness.

What else it might be: A vein problem known as venous insufficiency can also cause swelling. Normally, valves in the leg veins keep blood flowing back to the heart, but in those with venous insufficiency, these valves are weakened, causing a backup of blood. If valves are the problem, swelling usually goes away when you lie down. Compression stockings can help. Swelling can also result from hypothyroidism (not enough thyroid hormone).

9. Sudden or severe abdominal pain The big worries: Sudden abdominal pain could signal that an aortic aneurysm — a bulge that develops in the aorta, frequently in the abdominal area — has ruptured. "If the aneurysm ruptures, the pain tends to be sudden and severe and typically centralized around the belly button . Alternatively, sudden pain can indicate a perforated viscus (a hole in the stomach, intestine or other hollow organ), often due to an ulcer. Intestinal ischemia, which happens when blood flow to the intestines slows or stops, starving tissues of oxygen, can be a culprit, too. "It's more common in older, sicker patients who have heart failure or atrial fibrillation What else it might be: Abdominal pain is frequently due to gallstones, which are hard, pebblelike deposits that get lodged in a gallbladder duct, resulting in sharp pain as well as nausea and vomiting.

Diverticulitis — inflammation or infection in small pouches of the large intestine — can be another cause of sudden, severe pain, along with changes in bowel habits, fever and nausea. Although irritable bowel syndrome can trigger painful spasms in the colon, the pain tends to come and go over time and may also cause constipation, diarrhea or alternating bouts of both. Appendicitis is a less likely candidate for sudden abdominal pain in those over 50, as the condition is less common with age. When it does occur, however, expect gradually worsening pain in the right-lower quadrant of the abdomen.

Page 33 Mature Living February 2013

Health

Top 10 tips to get healthy at 50+ Getting older doesn’t have to mean a decline in health. Sticking to a healthy lifestyle can bring many benefits.

4. Exercise It is vital for all of us at any age, it improves circulation, heart health and bone health. We know that exercise improves longevity. Many people discover relief from aches and pains such as arthritis as well as anxiety through regular activity. It doesn’t have to be the gym, walking is excellent, as is swimming and cycling.

5. Get involved Those who are a part of a community tend to live longer and happier lives.

Being isolated increases your risk of poor mental health and disease.

Make sure that you make contact with people every day or at least once a week. Whether that is with friends, or clubs or spiritual groups.

Those who do well don’t just rely on their family for social contact but those with similar interests too.

G

etting older doesn’t have to mean a decline in health. However keeping healthy often needs more attention and to be made a priority, much more than when we were younger.

Why do we age Many researchers believe it is free radicals that create ageing. Our body, even when functioning normally produces something called ‘free radicals’. They are a normal by-product of taking nutrients in and eliminating waste. Over time they have a deteriorating affect on our body.

However certain aspects of our lifestyle, diet and living conditions can increase the amount of free radicals that are produced. An example of this is smoking. Those who smoke, age more quickly, not just there skin, but also die younger of diseases such as heart disease.

Improve your lifestyle By improving the way that we live, we put less stress on our body, which means

less free radicals. This allows the body more opportunity to heal itself and for us to be healthier whatever age.

1. Things to cut out Reduce meat and dairy in your diet as well as refined foods. If you do consume these make sure it is at least organic.

The chemicals and pesticides in our food add to our overall toxic burden increasing free radicals.

2. Blueberries for your brain Foods high in antioxidants should be consumed every day.

Especially good are berries. In one study it showed that Blueberries improve the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain, improving concentration and memory some five hours later.

3. Tea is good for you Green tea can be especially good for you. Packed with antioxidants, there are numerous studies indicated its cancer and disease protective effects. Drink a few cups a day to get the benefits.

Page 34 Mature Living February 2013

6. Use your head As the saying goes ‘use it, or lose it’.

Use your brain such as with Sudoku and crosswords, or write a journal every day.

7. Learn something new Learn an instrument or even a language.

Look at the excellent courses run by the University Of The Third Age. 8. Take a multi vitamin and mineral As well as having a good diet, taking supplements can be really useful. Pay special attention to vitamin B12, which tends to be low in older people and causes symptoms such as fatigue and recurring infections.

9. Hot and cold Hydrotherapy is a great way of increasing circulation and vitality. A

simple method is when in the shower alternating between hot and cold, 60 seconds hot, then 60 seconds cold, and keep repeating. Go careful if you have low blood pressure, if you do then just do this in the feet.

10. Natures Remedies Using herbal remedies can be a wonderful way of boosting vitality, immunity and health. Rosemary, the common garden plant, if made into an infusion increases circulation to the brain and helps brighten our mood.

Dandelion coffee helps our digestion and appetite. The herb Siberian ginseng helps increase energy and helps to reduce the stress of modern life.

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Motoring / Sports

Grim month for dealers as new buyers hold off

I

T has been a grim first month for most dealers by all accounts. The number of buyers and potential purchasers of new cars has been low. It obviously has been a grim month for them as well with increased bills, more charges and property taxes in prospect.

Consumer confidence is critical for car buying and, as of now anyway, it appears to be quite low. Registrations have been running at about 28pc lower than January 2012, according to sources. A fall on last January was expected because its figures were boosted by a lot of pre-ordering due to VAT changes.

And with a fair bit of pre-registration over the final days of this month, the figures for this January might come out a bit better. Pre-registrations means registering new cars to boost market share. They are subsequently sold on as one-owner nearlynew motors at a discount.

But they can not disguise the harsh real-

ity. Most salespeople reckon it has been a much worse start to the year than last. It has certainly been tougher than most in the industry anticipated or forecast.

As such it casts serious doubt over projections of 75,000 new-car registrations for the full year – which in itself would have been 5,000 down on 2012.

Now a number of those close to the current industry trend are saying the figure could dip to 70,000 – and possibly lower.

It is far too early to say one way or the other and it is amazing what can happen to turn things around. There is a school of thought that the two 'new-car' periods this year (January and July) might have already had the effect of levelling out buying patterns over the year. However, unless there is a marked pickup in February, the trend will probably have to be seen for what it is, a reflection of consumer negativity after yet another brutal Budget.

And that could put renewed focus on the 'second window' from July when the 132 registration plate starts up.

There is a belief that many potential buyers have put off making the decision to buy – for now – while holding on to the possibility of a July purchase.

It will be interesting to see if and when they return and what it will take to prompt them to do so.

It is early days and the complexion of the buying business could change over the coming months with a bit of good economic news.

Nissan Juke Nismo prices announced

T

he 200bhp Juke Nismo is set to go on sale in Ireland, with prices starting at €29,675 for the frontwheel drive version. The all-wheel drive Juke Nismo will cost €33,375. With tuned sports suspension and a comprehensive level of specification, the Nismo brings a bit

more excitement to the former Continental Irish Car of the Year.

Nismo is a name known to many petrol heads but more so to a generation of gamers. The high performance tuning arm of Nissan is going to deliver a host of tuned versions of its cars in the coming months and years.

Page 38 Mature Living February 2013

The most common running injuries brought to you by

R

unning is a hugely popular activity. It confers a myriad of health benefits to active and sedentary populations alike; is cheap to do; and requires very little skill for a beginner to master. However, a typical runner can pound the roads up to 2000 times in a single mile and this places undue stress on the body which can ultimately lead to injury.

The main soft-tissue injuries I encounter at my clinic include: • Shin Splints.

• ITB Friction Syndrome.

• Achilles Tendinopathy.

• Plantar Fasciitis.

• Muscular Strains.

Soft-tissue restrictions can ultimately

lead to gross imbalances in the musculature of the lower body, resulting in poor flexibility and reduced hip and ankle mobility. The most common sites for soft-tissue restrictions occur in the glutes, hip and calves.

Regular massage, whether performed by a qualified therapist or on your own with a foam roller or tennis ball, in combination with mobility exercises and dynamic warm-ups, can keep these restrictions to a minimum.

Insufficient Rest/Recovery weakens the body’s immune responses and leaves you susceptible to injury and illness. It is important that your training schedule, in combination with sound nutritional strategies, allows the body sufficient time to recover between sessions. Inappropriate Training surfaces: Repeated running on hard surfaces places undue stresses on the body thus requiring increased recovery time. If possible, hard surfaces should be avoided in favour of grass or woodland pathways. Sudden increase in training load: Many beginners experience problems when they attempt to up their training too quickly. A safe rule-ofthumb to use is the 10-15% rule which states that you shouldn’t increase your mileage by any more than 10-15% from one week to the next.

Note: If you are concerned about a niggling injury that is not going away with rest, it is important that you consult with a Chartered Physiotherapist to ensure that you are not at risk of serious injury. Your physio can then provide you with appropriate treatment to get you back on the road as soon as possible.

Gardening Home and Garden

Give your garden a spring clean!

February gardening jobs that will ensure your oasis of calm is in tip top shape for spring wood that is no more than a few years old Overgrown trees If you have a very overgrown tree where the fruit is being borne further and further from the trunk each year, then it's a good idea to perform some more drastic pruning. Rather than trying to trim the spurs, you need to cut them all off and about a third of the branch too.

Cut back to a fork, and just do 1/3rd of the branches this year and complete it over the next two years.

The dormant season is the best time to do this for apples and pears, when the buds begin to burst it's too late. Drupes on the other hand are pruned in the summer when in growth as winter pruning for these carries a high risk of introducing disease.

F

ebruary is one of the quietest months in the garden. For the hardy souls though, there are jobs to do and it can even be pleasant on a calmer, warmer day.

Time to prune your pomes, but leave your drupes well alone. A pome is a fruit with pips, apples and pears (also quince and medlars) whereas a drupe is a fruit with a stone, plums, cherries, peaches and apricots.

The dormant winter months are an ideal time to prune the over congested spurs from pome fruits. Apples and pears are mainly spur-fruiting trees, meaning that the fruits are produced on short lateral branches some 6-12 inches long.

When a tree has been growing for some time, these spurs become over-crowded.

The result is a rather untidy looking tree, lots of blossom and lots of small and not very high quality fruit. If you reduce the spurs, then the overall yield won't increase, but you will get a good improvement in the size and quality of the fruit that form.

Remove the older more complicated growth and thin weak stems leaving young vigorous growth behind. It depends on the state of the tree, but you should be aiming to remove about a third of the spur stems. If you repeat this process every year or two, then the tree will eventually be fruiting only on

Plan plants and planting Put canes or a hose pipe across the garden to mark out planned beds, patios or other features. Then ignore it for a few days, look out of the window and change it all totally if necessary. Winter is a good time to prepare for the coming growing season. Take your time when deciding on your grand design and get it right before you start on it when the warmer weather and breaking buds tempt you beyond the confines of the fire-side (whether metaphorical or literal).

Patio and decking If you've already decided, then get a patio or deck ordered and laid now. You'll certainly get it done quicker and probably also cheaper than later on.

Make your mind up and order from a contractor in March and the chances are that by the time you move up the queue, you may not get to sit out until June.

Hard areas outside extend the season of use of the garden. Lunch alfresco on a warm April day surrounded by the fresh green shoots of spring is a real delight.

Feed the birds This gets more important as winter goes on. Don't forget on the warmer days as well. Hunger isn't nice whatever the temperature.

Stay off the grass when it’s frosty It will recover if left to thaw out, but walking on it can damage many of the blades. I think of it in terms of having

cold fingers, simple things like knocking on a door suddenly become incredibly painful, it's like that for the grass being walked on when frozen.

Tree and hedge planting The winter months are the best time to plant any trees and hedging or other bare-rooted shrubs. These are bought bare-rooted from nurseries, this way they will be dormant, but have a more extensive root system than those grown in containers. They should be planted as soon as you can so they spend the minimum time out of the ground. This applies in particular to ornamental cultivars which seem to be less tolerant than most.

Tip. Use an old pair of tights as a tree tie. They're strong, don't rot, are soft and cheap. Tie around the tree and stake in a figure of 8 so that the tree trunk doesn't rub against the stake.

If you can't plant them straight away, then "heel them in". This means cover the roots with soil in a temporary position so that they don't rot or dry out.

Don't be tempted to leave them in the bag or other wrapping even for a short time. If you haven't space to put them in the soil, then "planting" them in sharp sand (a couple of quid from a builders merchant for a 40kg bag) will do nearly

as well (dries out quicker than soil). You could even do this in a bucket or other container as long as there are drainage holes in the bottom so the roots don't sit in water.

Why bother? Why not wait until it's a bit warmer and more pleasant and plant out of containers?

1/ Bare rooted trees and shrubs are cheaper, as little as half the price for trees and cheaper than this for shrubs though the range of available shrubs is smaller, so you can either save money or spend the same and get a much bigger plant.

2/ Planting now means that they get off to the best possible start in the spring.

As soon as the plants wake up and start putting their roots out, they're already in your soil rather in a pot that will then be planted in the soil later, one less jolt to the system.

So, there you have it. Use this guide over a couple of weekends and the work becomes manageable and very, very rewarding in the long term both from the perspective of the pennies in your pocket and the ease with which you will be able to keep it in trim throughout the summer.

Page 39 Mature Living February 2013

Hotels

Visit the stunning Leitrim countryside offer for an unforgettable break. A family re-union can be rounded off with a lavish evening meal It is an ideal wedding venue or conference centre. The central location of the hotel in Leitrim facilitates tours and visits to the surrounding unspoiled countryside. The location facilitates visits to the many nearby lakes that comprise the Leitrim countryside and shopping in nearby Sligo or Enniskillen A visit to Lough Allen hotel & Spa in Drumshanbo is a must and there are packages to suit any budget.

Drumshanbo • Co Leitrim www.loughallenhotel.com

Mid Season Mid Week Special

2 Nights B&B and 1 Dinner Just €99 pp 3 Nights B&B for just €99pp

To Book Call 071-9640100 or email reservations@loughallenhotel.com

I

T’S summertime and one of the best places to base a home holiday or a week-end break is, undoubtedly, the Lough Allen Hotel in County Leitrim. Situated on the shores of Lough Allen, only 14 km from the bustling town of Carrick on Shannon, it is only a short walk to the town of Drumshanbo.

The 4 star hotel has offerings to compare with the top hotels in Ireland and also has the stunning Leitrim countryside. Spa treatments, leisure centre and a sumptuous candlelight dinner are all part of what’s on

Maldron Hotel Portlaoise - so different, so near

T

he Maldron Hotel Portlaoise is regarded as one of the best Laois Hotels. Value is what business and leisure travelers’ alike look for and value is what ? the Maldron Hotel in Portlaoise delivers. Comfortable and luxurious rooms, efficient friendly service and a superior product at an affordable price.

The Maldron Hotel and leisure centre Portlaoise offers ? all of this and a little bit more. Regarded as one of the finest family friendly hotels, you and your family can enjoy a great value break together at this Portlaoise hotel. Maldron Hotel Portlaoise offers a number of family rooms and interconnecting rooms that are very comfortable and spacious. The Maldron hotel Portlaoise is perfectly positioned for sightseeing breaks in Laois and for families to avail of the many local attractions for kids.

For business meetings in Laois, The Maldron Hotel excels with a dedicated conference floor offering 8 state of the art Conference suites and 4 syndicate Meeting rooms. All our rooms include complimentary Wi-Fi / Broadband, natural daylight and Air Conditioning. We also offer you complementary secure car parking making us one of the finest hotels in Portlaoise.

Our superb Club Vitae Leisure Centre offers you the chance to relax and unwind after a long day. As a guest

of ours, you will have complimentary use of the leisure centre including: 20m swimming pool, children’s pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, aerobics Studio and gym.

Stir Bar and Restaurant offers food to suit all array of tastes using only fresh ingredients. Our menus are created with you in mind and offer healthy options and vegetarian dishes making us one of the most popular restaurants in Portlaoise.

Body and Soul Treatment rooms is a luxury quaint spa setting providing an extensive range of complementary and beauty treatments tailored to suit the needs of each individual. Our therapists are highly qualified & exceptional in their field and provide an extremely high standard of treatment at affordable and competitive prices. For more info or to book check out our website www.bodyandsoultherapyrooms.com The central location of the Maldron Hotel in Laois I is ideal for exploring the beautiful sights & surrounds of the Midlands of Ireland from the picturesque Slieve Bloom Mountains www.slievebloom.ie to the monastic round towers at Timahoe and the Garden Trail of Laois there is something for both young and old alike. For corporate guests the location of this hotel in Laois is convenient when traveling to Dublin, Limerick Cork or any location in Ireland.

Family Fun *

* 2 adults & 2 children

1 night B&B inc a Fun Activity from €99

Relaxing Family* 2 Night Break 2 nights B&B & 1 Evening Meal from only €215

Excellent range of packages available for families, Midweek and Weekend breaks, groups & Events.

Tel: 057 8695900 www.maldronhotelportlaoise.com info.portlaoise@maldronhotels.com

The Heart of the Great Western Greenway

N

Newpor$, Co. Mayo • Tel: 098 41155

Mid Season Mid week-Special

ewport is known as “The Heart of the Great Western Greenway” and sits on the banks of the Black Oak River, where tranquil, undiscovered mountain trails and walkways as well as the famous Burrishoole loop walks can be found.

Your hotel has every comfort, beautiful rooms classically decorated and furnished to a high standard, with elegant antique furniture happily co-existing with contemporary comforts and facilities, satellite TV and

(Sunday-Thursday)

2BB1D.........€100.00 per person sharing 3BB2D.........€150.00 per person sharing Enjoy a 2 or 3 night stay with breakfast and a 3 course evening meal included.

(Only available until the end of June) Please quote ‘mat"re living’ when availing of this offer.

www.hotelnewportmayo.com

telephone. There is a bar and restaurant with home cooking and we offer a packed lunch service should you require this on one of your trips out.

Please visit our website where you can see a range of packages and activities, from art classes to horse riding to fishing. www.hotelnewportmayo.com.

Page 40 Mature Living February 2013

Hotels

Why choose a Hotel when you can have the Luxury of a Resort

P

4 nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast and 5th night B&B FREE - €199 pp

*Dinner each evening *Full complimentary daily and nightly entertainment program *Transfers local Bus & Train Station *Complimentary tea & coffee daily *Full use of the leisure centre facilities

In-House Activities: •Discount Spa Treatments •Complimentary use of Leisure Club – Pool & Gym •Complimentary Classes •Active 55’s Workout •Table Tennis •Bowling •Wine Tasting •Herbal Tea Tasting •Grow your own Garden •Classical Movies •Guilded Walking Tour •Flower Arranging Scenic Tours available on request To Book: Call us now on 094 90 22033 or email to reservations@breaffyhouseresort.ie Bookings on line www.breaffyhouseresort.com

lanning a relaxing break away, the ideal location is Breaffy House Resort which is located in the heart of Co. Mayo. Set on 90 acres of gardens and rolling woodland. The House dates back to 1890, retaining some of its original Country House atmosphere whilst offering all of the luxury of a modern day hotel. The Resort is renowned for its warm welcoming staff with an excellent range of facilities. The Resort includes Spa, Leisure Centre with 20 metre pool, Sauna and Jacuzzi. The Resort offers deluxe rooms which include a range of suites, superior, standard rooms with all the facilities that your guests would require – direct dial telephone, multichannel colour T.V., radio, hairdryer, trouser press and tea/coffee making facilities.

This year we have put together an amazing offer of 4 nights Dinner B&B and 5th night B&B FREE when you book our Golden Breaks package. This offer includes 3 course dinner each night in the Mulberry Restaurant and breakfast each morning, along with 5th Night Bed & Breakfast free. Transfers can be

arranged from local bus and train stations based on minimum numbers. Complimentary on site parking should you wish to drive. We have chosen a selection of arrival dates each month which means we can provide in-house activities such as wine tasting, table tennis, bowling, grow your own garden and pottery painting. This is the ideal location to explore Mayo.

The Hotel is just 20 mins away from the scenic town of Westport. All guests have complimentary use of the swimming pool, sauna, seam room, Jacuzzi, and gym. You may also take part in one of our many classes, which include Aqua Aerobics, Over 55’s workout and the increasing popular Zumba. If you fancy some pampering, enjoy some time out in Breaffy Spa. Which offers a range of facial, body and massage treatments to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at leisure between 7:30am –10:30am each morning and Dinner each between 6:30pm – 8:45pm. The Mulberry Bar serves food for 12-9pm each day for snacks, light bites and main courses.

Go West this spring for a truly relaxing over 50s holiday ?

H

otel Westport is secluded in 7 acres of beautiful woodland in the heart of Westport. You’ll discover a uniquely friendly, comfortable and stylish hotel, abounding in warmth and relaxation.

Hotel Westport offers a variety of holidays and are renowned for their theme breaks – Golden Years (where you get an extra night’s dinner, bed and breakfast free!), Golf, Walking, Bridge and Indoor Bowling.

As part of their Golden Holiday Programme they take care of your every need! The holiday includes a full Irish Breakfast each morning (served until a leisurely 11am!), and a four course Table d’Hote dinner each evening.

They organise day tours too - Knock Shrine, Kylemore & Ballintubber Abbeys, Foxford Woollen Mills, Achill Island and The Céidé Fields (at your own expense), or for those of you wanting something a little more relaxing, book a treatment in their luxurious Ocean Spirit Spa. Choose from an array of treatments – specialised massages, soothing facials, exotic hand and foot spa treatments, luxurious body peels and wraps. They organize games and entertainment in the evenings too. You won’t want to go home!

The Hotel has 129 bedrooms with all the comforts of home. The elegant ‘Islands Restaurant’ overlooks the Carrowbeg River, while the ‘Maple Bar’ provides the perfect ambience for music and chat over drinks amongst friends. Avail of the extensive leisure facilities on hand, relax with a good book in the patio gardens or take a stroll along the Carrowbeg River into town where there is an excellent mix of shops, cafes and restaurants.

Hotel Westport is located in the perfect place to take in one or more of the many outdoor activities in the local area: Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s Holy Mountain, Clew Bay, with 365 islands, blue flag beaches, horse riding, golf, surfing, fishing, walking and shopping - just to mention a few and the nearest Hotel to the newly opened Great Western Greenway - 42km of uninterrupted walking and cycling taking in breathtaking scenery on the way, from Westport through Newport and Mulranny and into Achill Island!

A warm, friendly welcome awaits you at Hotel Westport, “One of Ireland’s best loved Hotels”. Sale Special – 18th or 25th March 5 Nights DBB Only €229 per person sharing. Call NOW for further details

Mini Over 50's Holidays at Hotel West!or" 'One of Ireland's Best Loved Hotels'

2 Night's B&B + 3rd Night Dinner, Bed & Breakfast FREE February March April May June

Premier Room €139pp €159pps €189pps €209pps €199pp

Standard Room €119pp €139pps €169pps €189pps €179pp

No Single Supplement for February & June!

Valid Sunday - Friday inclusive • Single Supplement €20 per night

Complimentary access to award winning leisure facilities - Contact us NOW

A pictorial record of the Free Day Tour toofConnemara West Ireland over with Harbour Hotel Packages 15 years

T

he Harbour Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Galway City, perfect for a getaway break this Spring.

Midweek specials, to include two nights bed & breakfast, freshly baked scones served with Kylemore Abbey Jams on arrival and a three course evening meal on a night of your choice from €89 per person sharing. Stay on our three night package and get a complimentary Day Tour to Connemara with tickets for Kylemore Abbey.

Enjoy spectacular scenery on your day trip out to Connemara where you will also see Ross Errily Friary, Ballymagibbon Cairn, Glebe Stone Circle, Cong Village, Abbey & Woods, Lough Nafooey Valley Route, Leenane & Killary Harbour, Kylemore Abbey, Inagh Valley, Quiet Man

Call 098 25122 or email reservations@hotelwestport.ie

Bridge and lots, lots more..

3 Nights B&B, 2 Dinner, Tea & Scones, plus Connemara Day Tour only €169 pps, Sunday – Thursday.

The Harbour Hotel has a waterfront location, just a 3 minute stroll from Eyre Square and 5 minutes from the train station. This

allows you to be part of the hustle and bustle, however the convenient location allows you to slip away to your hotel room for a bit of peace and quiet.

Contact Aine on 091894805 or stay@harbour.ie . Full details of packages on www.harbour.ie

Page 41 Mature Living February 2013

IT’S A ROLLOVER!!!

LAST MONTH WE HAD NO WINNER! SO THE PRIZE HAS NOW DOUBLED TO €100!

The Answer was Grid Ref: B2 / B3

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

WIN €100!! WIN €100!!

HOW TO PLAY

The ball has been remove You have to decide where d from the picture. it was, and place a ‘X’ on the picture.

The X Should mark where you think the centre of the ball is and can only be marked in one box per entry - Only one ent ry per person will be permitted.

If more than one correct will be picked at random answer is received then the winning entry from the winning entries.

Winner will be notified by pos t. Terms and conditions apply Send entries to ‘Spot the Ball’ Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo

Page42 42 Mature MatureLiving LivingOctober May 2012 Page 2012

ENTRY FORM

Name____________________ ______________ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ _ Telephone_______________

_____________

Ad dre ss_ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ _____________________________ ____________ ___________________________ ____________ ___________________________ ____________ ________________________ _______________ Email Address______________ _____________

R

S

? Outdoor Fitness - Visit us online www.outfit.ie

Outdoor Fitness

T

his month we are going to look at some ways to get the very most out of your time spent exercising.

Let’s face it; there are very few people who actually enjoy the act of exercising. It is hard work (at least, it should be!), it takes up your free time and often it can be a number of weeks before the results are obvious! What people do enjoy about exercising are the benefits that are gained when effort and commitment is put into their workouts. This is why it is a very good idea to learn how to get the most out of your time spent exercising – the

less time you have to spend working out, the more likely you are to do it!

First off, and most importantly, planning! It seems a simple concept but you would be amazed how many people don’t have any idea what they will do before they begin their workout. The first thing I do when designing a programme for a client is to determine a goal or goals which must be 2 things: specific and timed.

“I want to lose weight.” No good. It must have an end date otherwise I guarantee you will stop exercising in a couple of weeks. It is very difficult to

Machine of the Month:

The Fitness Rider

Function: This is cardiovascular piece of equipment. It works all joints and muscles and provides excellent all over toning. We recommend spending between 5 and 15 minutes at the beginning and end of each workout.

Method: Sit down on the seat and grip rubber handles. Place feet on pedals. Pull arms towards chest and press feet out. Revert to original position. motivate yourself unless there is an end in sight. “I want to lose one inch from my waist by Joanne’s wedding in October.” Perfect! Now our specific goal has a timescale. By the time Joanne’s wedding has come around you start again and say “OK, now I want to be able to run a 10k by Christmas” This gives you something to aim for and also something to say you achieved afterwards.

Next decide how much time you can dedicate to a workout. If it’s an hour, half an hour or only ten minutes then so be it. If your goal is weight loss, you need to do 20-30 minutes of vigorous cardio exercise per day. Everyone’s situation is going to be different but this is a general rule of thumb. Cardio is any exercise that raises your heart rate and gets you sweating e.g. walking, jogging, swimming, cycling.

You also want to include some resistance training. Resistance training is anything that works the muscles e.g. sit-ups, press ups, lunges.

Outdoor gyms are becoming so popular because they make it easier to exercise. The various machines allow you to do your cardio and your resistance exercises, all set away from

the stuffy, often uncomfortable atmosphere in a traditional gym. Next month we will look at some more ways to maximise results from your workout. Until then try to put into practice some of the techniques outlined above and see how they can help you to get to where you want to be!If you would like an outdoor gym installed in your area, you can talk to your local councillor or community development groups! There are grants and funding available all the time for these projects and it just takes someone to get the ball rolling! It could be you!

Page 43 Mature Living February 2013

Services Directory

Easy Baths, Showers, Stair Lifts & Leisure All Disability Equipment Supplied & Installed - Covering Both North and South Baths • Walk in baths with door.

• Hydrotherapy, Hydraulic Riser-Lower baths.

• Bather sitting in an upright or lie down position depending upon selection of bath type.

Showers • Showers easy access, trays and enclosures, half-height, full-height doors.

• Shower stools, chairs, fold down seats, doors, curtain rails etc.

• Level access and easy access shower tray included • Slip resistant surfaces on shower base.

• Suitable for shower-chair or ambulant user.

Stair Lifts • Straight or curved, made to measure • Floor to ceiling/platform lifts • Swimming pool lifts

EAST BROTHERS GARDEN MACHINERY Doon Boyle, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071-9662710, www.eastmachinery.ie P U SH S R MOWE TRACTOR LAWN MOWERS

Chainsaws, Tillers, Outboard Motors, Power Washers, Generators, Electric Fences, Farm Machinery Spares

STRIMMERS

For more information please contact: JOHN HINDS R.O.I.: T: 048 42771652 M: 00 44 7802 298910 N.I. 028 4277 1652 M: 07802 298910

ORTH WEST EST NORTH ROTECTION DOGS OGS PROTECTION

Deepwater Quay, Finisklin, Sligo Harbour, Sligo 071-9153360 • 071-9153362 Email: info@erin-recyclers.com

Healthier, Quieter, More Energy Efficient

TRALAS INSULATIONS Spray Foam Insulation

Ph: 048-66326728 Mob: 086-0858030

www.icynene.ie

We’ll change the way you think about insulation and your building - GRANTS AVAILABLE

Tidy up around your home & garden WE BUY...

• Pvc copper, cylinders, copper piping & lead • Alumimium wheels, alumimium sheeting • Old stainless steel milk tanks • Rebar from building sites.

We also do site clearances (Metal Only)

WE WEIGH AND PAY . . . AND YOU’RE ON YOUR WAY!!

www.scrapmetalireland.com

• Made to measure Including cut-outs for sockets • Heat Resistant Tempered glass • Hygenic & Easy to clean • Painted Colour of your choice RAL or british standard paint charts • Easily fitted over existing tiles • Free quotation service Far Finisklin Road, Co. Sligo

Tel: 071-91 61924 Email: sales@sligoglass.com

www.sligoglass.com

"pride in our work"

Pups and Trained Dogs For Sale Have peace of mind in your home - invest in a fully trained family protection dog • IKC Registered • Microchip • Vet Checked • Flea'd, Wormed & Vaccinated • 7 Generation Certificate • 6 Weeks free insurance • Parents can be seen

Ballina, Co. Mayo Tel: 085-7843837

Services Directory

ATLANTIC AUTOMATIONS

North West Counselling

Ballyneggin, Castlebar, Co. Mayo • Tel: 087-4187122 - Mob: 087-7587186 Manufacturers of quality Ornamental Gates, Railings and Stairs Specialists in Access Control Systems and Automatic Gate Systems

Counselling for people with addictions eg. Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling

• Relapse Programme • One-to-one Counselling • Referral system for private clients to White Oaks Rehabilitation Centre • Addiction and General counselling available Afternoon, evening and weekend appointments available

Counsellors are professionally trained and are fully accredited or working towards accreditation.

For appointments ring: 087-2879707, or 074-9723822 Email: taborhouse2004@eircom.net Tabor House, Drimark, Donegal Town

- Remote Control access systems - Keypad access control systems - Barrier access control systems

Helping people to recover

Visit our new SHOWROOM at Roadstone Retail park, Castlebar

Irish Shamrock Trees Cavity Wall Insulation Attic Insulation Sound Proofing Drylining Spray Foam Insulation

New & Existing Residential Commercial Industrial

Whitethorn & Beech Hedging Trees and more Suitable for: • People with limited mobility • People who have had hip surgery

• Aeos & REPS Specialists • All trees and tree plants • Refridgerated trees • Trees from €2.00 • All year round planting • Best Value Trees in Ireland.

• People with back aches

For details of your local stockist

Phone Noel: 087-9896948

We pride ourselves on our truly friendly and efficient service.

Tel: 087-2743914 24 HR www.irishshamrocktrees.com

S.T.O.P. is a registered charity, which was set up to assist and support individuals who feel suicidal, are in distress, or those who have been bereaved by suicide.

Contact: Michelle Fox, Beepark Resource Centre, Newline, Manorhamilton, Co.Leitrim

FREEPHONE: 1890-211-877 Mobile: 086 7772009 Email:northweststop@yahoo.ie

www.stopsuicide.ie

Feature Article Services Directory

JB DENTURE CLINIC Garden/Tone St, Ballina.

Boradruma, Snugboro, Castlebar

Mon-Thu 9.30 - 6pm / Fri 9.30 - 5pm • Homes • Hospitals • Nursing Homes Appointments by arrangement

Tel: 096-72189 or 087-6389500

We repair Kitchen seats, 3pce suites, fireside chairs, bar seating, sails, motorbike seats, headboards, office chairs etc. We retail foam rubber, vinyls, velours, webbing, buttons, springs, etc. Member of the National Guild of Craftsmen.

Open Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm Tel: 094 9023532 or 086 8350608

JAMES MCGRATH WESTPORT GAS REGISTERED GAS INSTALLER • REGISTERED OIL TECHNICIAN • CALOR GAS INSTALLER

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

• Solar Panels supplied and installed • Supplier and Installer of Gas /Oil Boilers • Domestic and Industrial Service • Gas and Oil Burner Upgrades • Heating Control Upgrades • Supplier of Valiant, Glowworm and Wolf Gas Boilers and Coster Gas Detection Systems

SERVICE AGENTS FOR Aga / Rangemaster / Electrolux / Zanussi / Parkinson Cowen Speed Queen and Maytag Laundry Equipment.

TEL (098) 35266 also (086)8169023 westportgas@eircom.net Servicing Mayo and North Galway

Bar, Hotels Private Houses All Upholstery undertaken Huge Selection of fabrics Contact: 086-8361070 or 071-9622700

Barcastle Retail Park, Castlebar. T: 094-9026100

www.symphonykitchens.ie

Keith - 085-1053588 / 071-9310787

MAKERS, SUPPLIERS & FITTERS • Water Analysis • Water Filtration • Water Softening • Well Drilling • Pump Supplied and Fitted • Rain Water Collection & Purification • Sewage Treatment Systems

MACE MIDDLE, CLAREMORRIS. www.mcganns.com

A full listing of products and rates are available on request

IN THE BUSINESS FOR OVER 25 YEARS

• Angles • Beading • Centre Pieces • Corbels • Corner Pieces • Cornices • Dado Rails • Niches • Plaques

Email: waterteck@eircom.net Website: www.waterteck.com Phone: 086-8072249 071-9658976

TELEPHONE: 094-9388208 MOBILE: 087-2503184

FREE (BER)

with every house insulated this month (with this advert)

Services Directory

Aluminium & PVC Repairs

Collooney, Sligo T: 071-913 0956 M: 086-086 3991

To windows, doors and patio doors

www.grantwater.ie info@grantwater.ie

Expert patio door repairs!

• Rollers • Tracks • Hinges • Door Realignment • Locks • Multilocking systems etc

Grant Water has a hot tub to suit any need and any budget.

Over 20 years experience servicing Irish windows and doors. Fully insured

From the smaller to the larger, there is a Spa just your size with the legendary therapy and quality we are known for

GLASS PARTS ETC REPLACED

Call today and get a special discount in Conjunction with “Mature Living Magazine”

Brendan Gormley: 071-9183860 / 087-2562669

Garden Street | Ballina | Co Mayo

Your Eyes Are Precious.....

Let us look after them.

Complete Eye Exams including • Glaucoma Screening • AMD • Cataract Screening • Spectacles and Contact Lenses

The Biggest & Best Value Fireplace Showrooms in Ireland

Save €€€s by calling to us

For a full discussion and advice on all aspects of your eye health, call us and book your appointment today.

• Fireplaces • Stoves • Gas • Oil • Solid Fuel • Electric • Granite Worktop Specialists

Mon – Sat 9.30am -5.30pm

Sligo Road, Enniskillen.

Phone: 048 66 326 327

Corn & Callous Removal Nail Problems Diabetic Foot Care Verruca Treatment Insoles Home Visits

PRSI and Medical Card applications welcome

www.footworks.ie | 096 60100 | info@footworks.ie

UNATTACHED GENT 60 yrs N.S. N.D. Interests include walking, dancing, C/W music.

Would like to meet like minded Lady for friendship / relationship.

Replies with a box number 988 at the usual address.

SLIGO GENT 62 yrs, would like to hear from Ladys 50 to 65 yrs for friendship. I live alone, & am lonely. I’m N.S. S.D. I own a van, like all sports, have good sense of humour, shy type. Replies with a box number 989 at the usual address.

ROSCOMMON LADY Early 60’s outgoing, likes dancing.

Would like to meet widower only.

N.S. For friendship leading to a relationship. Replies with a box number 968 at the usual address.

MALE SEEKING FEMALE With good personality, good sense of humour, loving, caring & honest, & is interested in relationship.

Replies with a box number 974 at the usual address.

KIND GENTLEMAN 51 yrs, mayo area, seeking female for discreet fun. Discretion assured. Replies with a blank stamped envelope to Box number 974 at the usual address.

FREE DATING* CLASSIFIED

GENTLEMAN WIDOWER 54 yrs. Landscape gardener W.L.T.M. female professional, not married. In the northwest for friendship and craic. 6ft 1', blue eyes, hair salt & pepper. Looking for lady 40 -47yrs. Longtime relationship. Replies with a blank stamped envelope to Box number 975 at the usual address.

YOUNG AT HEART LADY in mid - 60’s. w.l.t.m. genuine gentleman foor friendship. well travelled, enjoys dancing, gent of similar age. Replies with a blank stamped envelope to Box number 965 at the usual address.

OUTGOING LADY From Roscommon. Would like to meet widower, only 59 - 65. N.S. Must be free to socialize, for friendship, leading to a relationship. Replies with a blank stamped envelope to Box number 961 at the usual address.

To Reply to Any Box number, simply place your letter in a Blank, Stamped Envelope and then send this into us at: Dating Section, Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co.Sligo.

WRITE YOUR ADVERT HERE:

NO. OF ISSUES TO APPEAR IN (MAX 2) : SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS: THE FOLLOWING DETAILS ARE FOR OFFICE USE ONLY AND WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED. These details MUST be completed for all adverts NAME:

(MAX 30 WORDS) - *Phone numbers will not be included in these adverts.

ADDRESS: Post the completed form to Mature Living Magazine, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo

TELEPHONE NUMBER: EMAIL:

STRICTLY PRIVATE ADVERTISERS ONLY - BUSINESSES CAN CALL 071-9154538 AND SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY SALES REPRESENTATIVES ABOUT OUR EXCELLENT RATES. Please tick if you do not wish to avail of offers and information we may offer from time to time

Page 47 Mature Living February 2013

Help us Celebrate our Birthday @

Lynns Dock, Sligo • Tel: 071-9157830 To celebrate fifteen years trading, Sligo Wood Flooring and Furniture are giving you this very special offer until St. Patrick’s Day. There are no catches or gimmicks. Just a straight forward good deal to help them celebrate fifteen years of successful trading in Sligo.

Here is how it works – if you want your sitting room, dining room and a bedroom floored you will get the smaller room done for free.

Or if you have three bedrooms that you would like a new wooden floor for you will get the smallest room done free. It is that simple

T E G D N A S M O O R O W T Y .

E N E A R F R R O O F FLO D E R O O L F M O O R D R I H T A

The Northwest’s largest selection of Wooden Floors

O

ne of the best places in Sligo (if not the best) for buying quality flooring is Sligo Wood Flooring at Lynns

Dock.

The store prides itself on sourcing its vast array of wooden flooring from the best and most competitive suppliers available to them.

This enables them to pass on real discounts to their customers.

As the majority of its stock is kept in its warehouse, it offers a next day delivery service or you can head over yourself for immediate collection.

Sligo Wood Flooring has a great range of wood flooring, including oak, beech, cherry, walnut, maple and pine to name but a few.

These are available in either laminate, semi solid, solid or engineered

EXPERIENCE & KNOWLEDGE Sligo Wood Flooring has been in operation in Sligo since 1998 and they have built up a lot of great contacts and experience in flooring during this time. Both William and Frank have a great product knowledge of all types of flooring and accessories. They believe giving the best advice to their customers is key to customer satisfaction.

Will BEAT ANY PRICE The lads at Sligo Wood Flooring know that they are seriously cheap, and they check their prices weekly against their competitors to make sure that their price is the best.

But if you see the same product advertised for less anywhere in Sligo they will guarantee to beat that price.

Care About YOU Without customers Sligo Wood Flooring cannot run their business, and that's why YOU are the most important part of their business.

They will always put you first and will always aim to make sure your experience with them is one that you want to repeat every time you need a new wood floor.

They Understand At Sligo Wood Flooring they understand that you might not want the hassles of measuring your floor space or organizing a fitter to lay your floor or even discarding your old floor might be a problem for you. This is why they are a 1 stop shop when it comes to anything to do with a floor. William or Frank will only be to delighted to organise all the above for you.