Mature Living November 2013

PROMOTING A HEALTHY & POSITIVE LIFESTYLE Nov 2013

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE OLDER, BOLDER INDIVIDUAL

Coping with excessive Sleepiness

Planning for retirement

Christmas gifts ideas for your dog

Dental Implant Dentures can change your life

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Contents

www.matureliving.ie

November 2013

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T’S MID-NOVEMBER and Christmas is beginning to wave a greeting from a distance. With the onslaught of the October budget cuts, which has had an impact on the disposable incomes of older people, we can only hope that all of us will see the year through without further grim news.

The tragedy in the Phillippines, of course, puts everything into perspective.

Nature, it appears, has no mercy and we urge support for any fund-raising efforts to help people caught up in the catastrophe.

Our One-on-One interviewee for November, jazz and blues singer, Mary Coughlan, has endured much turbulence in her own life, but her undoubted talent has endured and should see her through many more years providing entertainment in Ireland and abroad. She speaks candidly about her life, the early years of abuse, the drugs, drink, broken marriages and how she may have hurt people also. Thankfully, she has come out the other side and looks forward to better times ahead.

In an unusual feature, we present a review of a book which is innovative and may yet prove to be historic. Mayo and US-based writer Reggie Walsh has published a novel based on events in a western island in the mid-20th century. In the course of the novel he unravels a Shakspeare Code which might yet raise eyebrows in the literary world. If nothing else, the book itself makes compelling reading.

This issue takes on a Christmas touch, also, with advice on pudding with brandy butter on the cooking front, in addition to electronic and technology gift ideas. On the canine front it also provides some Christmas Gift ideas for your dog.

Depression in later life is more common than we might think.

Many older people suffer due to ill health and loneliness and this can lead to depression which can have sad consequences. We highlight this important issue and also provide some advice on how to deal with excessive sleepiness.

There are, of course, many other interesting articles and features in your November issue. Closing date for copy for our December issue is 4th December. We urge you to take care in the colder weather and not to forget those who live alone.

POSTPONEMENT: We regret that due to circumstances beyond our control we have been forced to postpone our Mature Living Expo planned for the weekend of 22nd and 23rd November in Breaffy House Hotel, Castlebar. However, we are rescheduling for late March 2014 and we look forward to providing you with fuller details in forthcoming issues.

42 Seamus Casey - Editor

LAST MONTH’S COMPETITION WINNER Bridget Delaney of Rathcormac, Co. Sligo who won a 2 Night Break and Dinner on 1 Evening at the Broadhaven Bay Hotel

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

News Mayo / US writer cracks a Shakespeare Code in new novel!

One-on-One with Singer, Mary Coughlan Shout it from the rooftops!

What is a credit union?

Funeral Homes Competition Home Heating Services The Bands of our Showband era Travel: Self guided walking holidays in France and much more!

Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy butter Great Christmas gifts ideas for your dog Best Electronic and Technology Gift Ideas for Christmas Coping With Excessive Sleepiness Depression in later life The home improvement Tax Incentive 2014 Hotels Guide Spot the Ball Services Directory

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Published by: IBS Publications Limited 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

Staying warm in winter

I

reland can experience very cold spells during the winter. It is important that people are protected against a drop in the temperature.

Keeping warm over winter months can help prevent colds, flu or more serious health problems like pneumonia. Find out some simple things you can do to keep warm and stay healthy and make the best use of your heating at home.

DOGS TRUST LEGACY

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egacy giving is vital in order to secure the future of Dogs Trust. Dogs Trust saves the lives of over 1,000 puppies/adult dogs from destruction in the pounds each year. Our life saving work is only made possible thanks to the support and generosity of the general public. Leaving a % in a will can really go along way in helping continue our work.

We are highlighting the importance of this vital fundraising stream during Best Will in the World Week in October.

The size of the legacy can be any value – no donation is too small.

One legacy Dogs Trust received in 2013 will be helping build a memorial

garden on the grounds of Dogs Trust.

The garden will be located in a peaceful area, with trees and shrubs and a comfortable bench where people can come and tie a ribbon to the tree and have some quiet time remembering a pet that has passed away. What a lovely idea and thoughtful legacy for this person to request and leave behind – so others can enjoy a place too.

The bench will have an inscription in her name.

Any one else who leaves any value to Dogs Trust will have their name added to the bench also. A small tribute to acknowledge their thoughtfulness and generosity.

Heating your home To keep warm at home during the day: • heat your main living room to around 18-21ºC (64-70ºF) and the rest of the house to at least 16ºC (61ºF) • heat all the rooms you use in the day • if you can’t heat all your rooms, make sure you keep your living room warm throughout the day and heat your bedroom before going to bed • set the timer on your heating to come on before you get up and switch off when you go to bed • in very cold weather set the heating to come on earlier, rather than turn the thermostat up, so you won’t be cold while you wait for your home to heat up To keep warm at home during the night you should: • try to keep a temperature of above 18°C (65°F) in your bedroom overnight • if you use a fire or heater in your bedroom during winter, open the window or door a little at night for ventilation • never use an electric blanket or a hot water bottle together as you could electrocute yourself • if you have an electric blanket, check what type it is – some are designed only to warm the bed before you get in and should not to be used throughout the night • make sure your electric blanket is safe to use by getting it tested every three years - the Fire Brigade, Trading Standards and Age Concern can test your electric blanket for safety Eat well A balanced diet will help keep you warm and healthy in the winter. Make sure you and your family eat at least one hot meal a day (soup is nutritious and warming, and inexpensive to make or buy).

Stay active and stay in touch Staying active is good for your health, walking for example can be beneficial. If the weather prevents you getting outside,

stay active indoors - catch up on all the household tasks you've been putting off.

Talk - especially if you've been stuck in the house for a few days - lift the phone and call friends and family. If you have elderly relatives or neighbours who might need help, please check up on them.

Make sure your heating is safe It is important to make sure your heating is safe and that your house or workplace is properly ventilated, to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Wear something warm You can help keep warm by: • wearing plenty of thin layers, rather than one thick one • putting on a coat, hat, scarf, gloves and warm shoes or boots when you go outside • wearing clothes made of wool, cotton, or fleecy synthetic fibres • wearing bed socks and thermal underwear at night Flooding and severe weather Our weather can be severe and it can change rapidly. Extreme shifts in weather patterns can lead to flooding in vulnerable areas and make some roads and motorways inaccessible.

The Met Office's severe weather warning page provides up-to-date information about weather that is likely to cause disruption.

If you are considering embarking on a journey during bad weather, you should consult the Met Office for travel conditions. If you must drive during severe weather, make sure you are prepared for bad weather conditions.

Look after your pets Taking care of animals may become more challenging in cold weather: • don't leave your dog or cat outdoors in freezing temperatures for long. Make sure he or she has a warm place to sleep, away from draughts • after a walk in snowy, icy or wet conditions, dry your pet off as quickly as possible and ensure it is kept warm. Some dogs will need a properly fitting dog coat in cold weather • take care of yourself when walking your dog in icy conditions, as a dog pulling on the lead can cause you to lose your balance Never leave your cat or dog alone in a car during cold weather.

News

Appeal for Care & Repair funding

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Age Action has made a public appeal for finan- cial support to help fund the expansion of its successful Care and Repair programme, which supports older people to continue living independently in their own homes.

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ommunity representatives from across Ireland who are part of Age Action’s innovative scheme met in Dublin last month to discuss ways of expanding the pro- gramme. Care and Repair was launched in 2007 to provide a small DIY service and home visitations to older people, with the aim of enabling them to live independently and with dig- nity in their own homes.

“Typically, the jobs may involve light gardening, fit- ting hand rails, changing light bulbs or unblocking sinks – small jobs which many of us take for granted but which may be challeng- ing for some older people,” Age Action chief executive Robin Webster said. “It is a wonderful success story which is helping thousands of older people.”

Last year, Age Action’s volunteers and its 30 com- munity partners carried out almost 19,500 jobs. Since the programme began, they have completed over 58,000 jobs.

With a gradually age- ing population,

one of the greatest challenges is how society supports more older people to remain living in their own communities.

“Approximately one-third of older people currently live alone, and with more than a quarter of older people living with a disability and more than half having a chronic illness, there is no doubt that the question of how to support people to live with dignity will quickly become a major chal- lenge for Irish society,” Mr Webster said.

“Age Action believes that our Care and Repair model is working to meet these needs. It is a flexible model with existing commu- nity partners ranging from groups serving the needs of their town or village to others serving large urban areas of Dublin or large rural areas. If expanded, this model could meet the needs of an ageing society.”

“However, we urgently need new sources of funding to enable us continue and expand Care and Repair, and

so enable us to help more older people.

We are interested in exploring all forms of funding, both from the state and the cor- porate sector.”

The Care and Repair pro- gramme has been funded since its inception by Irish Life. However, that fund- ing arrangement ends later this year. Age Action is now looking for new funders to enable the programme con- tinue and expand, building on its success to date.

Irish Life’s corporate social responsibility man- ager, Gerry Loughrey, said independent research commissioned by Irish Life showed that every €1 they invested in Care and Repair produced a social return of €16.85. “By any measure, this is an effective programme – if that was a share, I would buy it,” he said.

Delivering the keynote address, Social Protection Minister Joan Burton praised Age Action and its volunteers for the impact they were making.

“The Age Action staff, vol- unteers and community partners delivering this pro- gramme are unsung heroes, carrying out a huge volume of work quietly and efficient- ly on a daily basis and mak- ing a real difference to the lives of older people in the process,” she said. “I am especially pleased that par- ticipants in the Department of Social Protection’s Tús community work place- ment initiative are working alongside volunteers to help deliver the Care and Repair service.”

The conference at Croke Park was attended by Care and Repair’s community partners, local authorities, older people’s groups and potential funders.

Retirement may be "critical window" for getting active PEOPLE tend to spend more time being active and less time sitting after retirement, a new study suggests.

But the older they get, the more they slow down again, researchers found.

"Older adults who maintain a level of physical activity - and we're not talking about marathon running, just brisk walking three or four times a week - do much better over the long term with their health," said Stephen Kritchevsky.

He heads the Sticht Center on Aging at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Findings on how activity levels change after retirement have been mixed.

Kritchevsky said it depends, in part, on the kind of jobs people are retiring from.

"For many people, it's a very important life change that many people plan for financially but they fail to plan for the other aspects of their lives," he said. "For those people … that are coming from jobs that are sedentary in their nature it's really an opportunity to use that time to take care of yourself in a way that will have important dividends in the long term," Kritchevsky said. For the new report, UK researchers studied 98 adults, ages 48 to 89.

Two-thirds of them were retired.

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Book Review by Gerry Walsh.

Mayo / US writer cracks a Shakespeare Code in new novel!

A review of The Cross at Pig Hill by Reggie Walsh.

I

T may have taken 450 years, but a Mayoman could have cracked it.As entertainment goes, there is nothing like a good read, a good yarn to while away a few hours in a world of make-belief, or belief in a world that makes everything seem possible.

Even Mayo winning an All-Ireland.

These are the thoughts which spring to mind when reading a recent novel by Mayo writer and former reporter for The Western People, Reggie Walsh. It provides an abundance of good laughs and bullet shots to cut a swath through a winter’s evening.

A writer – and long-time denizen of the Bronx now residing in Ohio, who can tie in Shakespeare and Hamlet to Mayo in even a vague way - deserves a read and the idea of cracking a Shakespeare Code seems surreal when leading academics say the Bard was too bright to ever fall back on one.

In his novel, The Cross at Pig Hill, Walsh – as all good writers who make fiction believable, makes a convincing case, and then some.

Flann O’Brien might even shuffle a bar-stool in Walsh’s direction for the sheer fascination of being told how he did it. The play on words is awesome. Is it a code or is it not? If not, Walsh has a way with words that is so uncanny to border on the incredible, the ingenious even. If a code, he is the first to uncover any code of Shakespeare in 450 years.

And he cracks the Code with Irish words! The play is King Lear and the code is cracked by use of the words, gan and ang. That will shake a few cobwebs from the clutter of papers through the trove of Irish tomes in the groves of Academe.

Not so nice is the reference to the Mayo GAA debacle of 60 odd years where the main protagonist points his finger at the Mayo crest being the cause of all their ills. A curious

thought that. He is not the only one thinking of the key to a bright future for the Green and Red. The Cross at Pig Hill is set in 1972 around Westport and a small island community in Clew Bay. There is a lot of dialogue or ‘chat’ like Puig in The Kiss of the Spider Woman and it is Walsh’s forte. It reads like a play.

Can you imagine an ICA meeting giving rise to a burst or two of howling laughter? A religious meeting that ends in a carnal, carnival of dancing? A little bit of grocery shopping that ends in a killing? And everywhere there are the seals like politicians (and Walsh has them too) and really the novel fills the void of a bit of shameless politicking which reminds one of Louis McNeice: “The seals heads bobbing in the tide flow, they cannot depose logically what they want.”

And a retort of one of Walsh’s fascinating characters: “Politicians, they promise you all the birds in the

Page 8 Mature Living November 2013

sky, only trouble is you have to catch ‘em yershrelf.”

All in all, The Cross at Pig Hill is a good read – crass language is at a minimum, and well worth the price of 174 pages of a memorable story.

Reggie Walsh (though born in Kildare) spent most of his early life in Swinford, Co. Mayo. As a journalist with the Western People newspaper in the ‘70s and early ‘80s people from Swinford and Ballina, in particular, would remember him for his enigmatic style and his contribution to sport and other social fields, before he emigrated to the U.S. in the early ‘80s. He attended Ruskin College, Oxford, and City College, New York. The Cross at Pig Hill is his first novel and he will publish two books of historical fiction on the life and times of Frank P. Walsh in the coming months. Google the ‘Shakespeare Code Reggie Walsh’ for the story behind the code. The book is available from Kindle or Amazon.

Erosion of access to health care for older people

By Patricia Conboy

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udget 2014 was hard on older people. Of the many cuts announced, the changes to medical card eligibility were the most cruel. The weekly income limit for medical cards for people aged 70 and over will reduce from €600 to €500 per week for a single person and from €1200 to €900 per

week for a couple.

The Government is preparing legislation to give effect to these changes within the next three months. In the short term, the immediate effects will be felt by the group of older people who lose their medical cards. This group will include individuals who are frail, ill and very old. They will now face the struggle to cope with sickness, disability and a dysfunctional health service without the comfort of their medical card.

However, the long term consequences of this change to medical card eligibility extend beyond the older people directly affected by the Budget announcement. There is a broader issue. Make no mistake about it. What we are witnessing is the steady erosion of the right to health care for older people. It is a right that is already heavily qualified and, all the signs are, the right to care is going to become even more restricted in the future.

Government Ministers seek to reassure older people by stating that they will be issued with GP Visit Cards. What these reassurances obscure is the loss of access to services that accompanies the move from a medical card to a GP visit card. The medical card provides access to optical, aural and dental benefits. Critically, it is also a passport to home and community care services, including visits from public health nurses, home help and specialized equipment. The GP Visit Card is just that, a card that facilitates visits to the doctor.

No more.

What most people do not realize is that home and community care services are not available as a right or entitlement. Access is on a discretionary basis. While the State is legally required to provide in-patient hospital services to citizens, it is not legally obliged to provide community services. Most people do not appreciate the implications of this legal deficit until they find themselves in a crisis or an emergency: the diagnosis of illness, discharge from hospital with a disability or a transition to the role of carer. Will you get a homecare service in these circumstances? It depends on where you live, who you speak to, the state of the budget in your regional HSE office, and local custom and practice.

Pathways to services and supports for individuals are unclear, unreliable and nationally inconsistent. A medical card is both a support to individuals and families who are trying to navigate their way through the community care maze, and a measure of need recognized by health service providers. As people lose their medical cards, they are losing their passport to a broader range of necessary health and social care services.

The removal of medical cards is happening in combination with other worrying developments: annual increases in prescription charges; spiraling costs of private health insurance and reduction in tax relief for health insurance; and the introduction of waiting lists for access to the Nursing Home Support Scheme.

Sadly, there is ample evidence to support the view that older people’s right to health care is being gradually eroded.

Older people must make their voices heard on this issue in public. But first, arm yourselves with information. A good place to start is with a visit to Older & Bolder’s archived website: http://www.olderandbolder.ie/content/blog/homecaremust-be-made-statutory-right Follow me on Twitter : @PatriciaConboy1

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October 2013 • Sligo Now Magazine • Page 7

Gerry Walsh speaks with Mary Coughlan

B

RENNAN’S LANE, Ballina, was the venue, just about a year ago. I had never experienced Mary Coughlan live and was blown away, not just by her singing performance, but with the way she could captivate and hold an audience in the palm of her hand.

The Galway-born jazz and blues singer, noted for her smoky, bluesy, boozy style, has created much interest over the past 25 years for the goings-on in her personal life. But after all that, the songs and performances remain consummate and testament to a seemingly timeless and enduring talent. The vocal marrying of sardonic wit, visceral rage, passion and the tenderest of sorrowful regrets is Mary’s undoubted legacy.

I spoke to her last week in her home outside Bray in Wicklow, where she lives with her partner, John and son, Cian. The rest of her family are not dispersed too far either. Her son, Eddie (30) is based in and around Dublin; Eoin (33) studied sound engineering and has just finished an Honour Science Degree in UCD. While he has shown interest in music and composition and daughter Aoife is a talented singer, no family member has indicated an interest in the music industry.

While Mary Coughlan performs with such flawless ease her voice has such a seductive quality. In her career of over 25 years, she has drawn heavily from artistes like Billie Holiday, Peggy Lee, Van Morrison, Tom Waits, Edith Piaf and others; yet, with her naked honesty she makes every song her own, particularly in her recordings of songs like “Double Cross”, “Magdalen Laundry” or “The Ice Cream Man”.

Before this, however, music was always in her family. Her mother had a record player and she loved listening to artistes like Cliff, Elvis, Everly Brothers, Guy Mitchell, Andy Williams, Frank Sinatra and others.

Her mother and father also loved to dance.

Mary Coughlan has endured turbulence in her personal and

Page 10 Mature Living November 2013

professional life. Born in 1956, she was the eldest of five children and got into difficulties at a young age.

She speaks openly in her book, Bloody Mary, My Story, about being sexually abused from a young age by both her grandfather and an uncle.

As a consequence she grew up confused, angry and overcome with guilt, as if she herself was responsible for it all. She left secondary school and began to take alcohol and drugs at the age of 15.

After spending time in a mental hospital and eventually graduating she decided to leave home and move to London in the mid-‘70s. Here she married Fintan Coughlan and had three children. However, this union did not survive and Mary left her husband and took custody of her children in 1981, before eventually moving back to her home town, Galway, in 1984. She then began to perform in public and was noticed by Dutch musician and producer, Erik Visser.

Visser was destined to play a major part in her life and helped Mary record her first album, Tired and Emotional. After a memorable appearance on the Late Late Show, the album went on to sell 100,000 copies. While she continued to have personal problems, she retained a high position with WEA. On Under the Influence (1987) she revived the 1948 Peggy Lee hit, Don’t Smoke In Bed, as well as the Billie Holiday classic, Good Morning Heartache, and Jimmy McCarthy’s Ride On which reached number 5 in the Irish pop charts.

Despite her success, Mary lost her contract with Warner Music Group in the late ‘80s.

During this time Mary was suffering as a consequence of serious mismanagement of her career. In addition to losing her contract with WEA she lost her house and car. She also began to d rink regularly and was hospitalised on numerous occasions.

Following treatment she recovered and in 1994 she found a new partner, Frank Bonadio, with whom she had two more children.

? took the business of

This marked a turning point and Mary has managed to remain “dry” now for almost 20 years. After a long relationship, she eventually married Frank in 2000. However, the marriage ended after seven months after his notorious affair with their nanny. This caused much pain at the time and she found it difficult to understand as she had gotten sober. However, she acknowledges that she must have made his life hell before that “with all the drink and everything else”. A public spat with Sinead O’Connor also ensued over Bonadio’s affections.

In 1990 Mary signed up with East West Records and released her third album Uncertain Pleasures. There followed Sentimental Killer (1992) and Love for Sale (1993). In 1994, she lent her vocals to the hugely popular A Woman’s Heart Vol. 2 album, along with big names like Mary Black and Dolores Keane. She released her first live album Live in Galway and another studio album, After the Fall, in 1997, which became her American debut. All of this happened amid bouts of treatment for her various addictions. “Live in Galway” marked a triumphant, if anxious return from the brink to the home stage in 1995, having to repent from having previously let them down a little too frequently. After becoming the “no-show” on so many occasions she sold out eight gigs in a row.

In 2000 she presented a series of multimedia shows in Dublin and London, celebrating Billie Holiday, a singer whose life story has parallels to her own.

The best of these shows was collected on the Mary Coughlan Sings Billie Holiday album. The 2000s saw the release of numerous compilation albums and her appearance on RTE’s reality charity show, Celebrity Farm. Her 2008 album, The House of Ill Repute, received rave reviews and she also took part in the Sanctuary album with Moya Brennan. At present she is working on a new album

(yet unnamed) with Erik Visser, due for release in Spring 2014.

Life is wonderful for Mary at present. She has a good relationship with her family and ex-husband. “They have a right to be angry with me over things in the past”, she says, “but at least I am close to them now, as I am to my three grandchildren.

They are sound human beings, so I must have done something right”. Mary had become a mother at 20 and maintains she

motherhood seriously. She had been obsessed with natural childbirth, the benefits of breastfeeding and a macrobiotic diet. However, as her career took off there were temptations and, as a result, her marriage suffered.

Mary speaks of her dissatisfaction with organised religion since she was 12 or 13.

Her mother had always been kind to travellers, who had large families, as did many others in Galway. She failed to see the reason why women could not use contraception; there were just too many children. But she is a spiritual being and believes we are all part of a great scheme, and we have to get back to that. While society is more open-minded now than back in the ‘50s we are still backward in many areas. However, she doesn’t concur with the view that in those days we were poor, but happy. “The stories of abuse in families throughout the ‘50s and ‘60s in Ireland are absolutely horrendous”, she says. “There are hundreds and

thousands of documented cases of women badly abused at home, often the victims of incest. In recent years she has worked to raise awareness of the Magdalene laundry in Galway, which ran institutions for so-called “fallen” women, graphically depicted in the 2002 film, The Magdalene

Sisters. “With so many generations of abuse and suffering, it is no wonder many of us are dealing with the fallout still today”.

Mary Coughlan does not spend every waking moment immersed in the ills of society.

She loves to read and has many favourites, including Philip Roth and Ian Banks. She is also a Michael Harding fan. She strongly recommends two of her most recent reads, “The Glass Room” and “The Girl who Fell from the Sky” (Simon Mawer). She attends yoga (90 minutes twice a week). She loves the movies and was looking forward to viewing Gravity, starring George Clooney, with some family members this week. Her others loves are her horses, walking and nature, not to mention spending time with her three adorable grandchildren.

Commenting on events in Ireland in reason years she is philosophical. Things happen for a reason and we have to see it through. She visited towns in Northern England recently and felt such an air of depression and many signs of poverty.

However, we have more spirit here and greater resilience. All of this will pass. The recent catastrophe in the Phillippines is horrific, but it is indicative of the changes taking place in the world – things that have always happened through the centuries – and we have to see it through.

Mary Coughlan intends to keep doing what she is doing now for many years to come.

This year she performed in New Zealand, Australia, Finland, Swedan and other places, but has worked very little at home.

She looks forward to the release of her new album in Spring and to another year doing what she does best, entertain. After so many turbulent years she has found a great measure of peace and hopes she will maintain good health to enjoy it.

Page 11 Mature Living November 2013

Retirement

Planning for retirement time/ seasonal workers.

The Pensions Board will issue onthe-spot fines and prosecute any businesses found in breach of their obligations. Further information is available from the Pensions Board’s booklet PRSAs Employers’ Obligations from the website www.pensionsboard.ie and you can also check-out the Trustee and Employer Checklist. *A list of all providers is available on the Pensions Board website – www.pensionsboard.ie

W

hether we like to think about it or not, retirement becomes a reality for the majority of us. The good news is that people retiring today tend to live longer and fuller lives than before. In order for us to have the type of lifestyle we would like in retirement we need to plan and save for it, and a pension is one way of doing that. As we have an ageing population in Ireland, it is important that individuals make adequate provision for their retirement. To encourage the individual to contribute to a pension the Government offers tax relief on pension savings.

Consumers also should be aware of the employees’ rights in relation to accessing a pension. By law employers are obliged to provide all employees with access to a pension. Where there is no company pension in place or where some employees can not access that company pension the employer must allow access to a Personal Retirement Savings Account (PRSA) provider. Read on for further information on the obligations involved.

Private Pensions Pensions are by their very nature a long-term investment. Over the lifetime of a pension, which could be thirty to forty years, there will be times of high returns as well as low returns. This is to be expected with all investments and pensions are no different. For those who have started planning for retirement and are investing in a pension it is important to have an understanding as to the investment choices and risks being

made on their behalf.

As mentioned above we’re living longer, the average person retiring tomorrow aged 65 years has a life expectancy of a further 20 – 23 years, this, coupled with increases in the standard of living means that the cost of funding your retirement is growing. It is therefore important that you engage with the pension process and remain engaged whilst you’re contributing to the pension during your working life, so that your expectations in retirement will be met. This is of even greater significance for those nearing retirement age, with five to ten years to go to retirement. The Pensions Board recommends that lower risk options be made available to scheme members as they approach retirement so that the growth experienced can be realised.

The Pensions Board offers a range of booklets, including PRSA’s, A Consumer’s Guide, written in collaboration with the Consumers’ Association of Ireland which help explain the pension process, read on for further information.

The Tax Relief One of the more immediate benefits of contributing to a pension is the tax relief. This relief proves pensions to be one of the most tax efficient ways of saving for the future.

Tax relief is currently available on the pension contributions, the investment gains and most pension schemes currently allow for a tax free lump sum in retirement usually at 25%. It is generally recognised that the older you get your outgoings start

Page 12 Mature Living November 2013

to reduce. In order to incentivise you to allocate more of that income towards retirement the percentage limits of your salary which can be invested in a pension are increased; thereby increasing the tax relief available in accordance with your highest rate of tax – please see the table below.

Employer Obligations Since 2003 employers are obliged, by law, to provide all employees with access to a pension. As mentioned above where there is no company pension in place or where some employees can not access that company pension the employer must allow access to a Personal Retirement Savings Account (PRSA) provider.

The obligations involved in providing access to a PRSA provider consist of three simple steps on the part of the employer To assign a PRSA provider*- this involves the employer contacting a provider and establishing an individual within the provider as their contact point.

To issue the PRSA provider and contact details to the employees and to allow them time during working hours to make contact with the provider and get the information they need.

If the employee decides to start contributing to a PRSA with the designated provider the employer must make the relevant deductions from payroll.

Please note the employer is NOT obliged to make any contributions to the employees’ pension but they must provide this access to all employees including part-

Further Information The Pensions Board’s website www.pensionsboard.ie provides a range of information and resources including – Pension calculators – The Pension Calculator allows you to insert basic personal information such as your age, current salary, and the value of the fund (if any) invested to date and your target pension as a percentage of your preretirement salary. The calculator will then estimate the monthly contributions needed to provide for their pension at retirement.

There are savings and advanced pension calculators available on the website also.

Information Booklets – the Pensions Board also offers a range of booklet free to download from the website including PRSAs, A Consumer Guide What are my Pension Options?

PRSAs Employers’ Obligations A Guide to Annuities The Pension checklist – which provides a quick snapshot of the ten different questions you should ask yourself about planning for retirement and pensions.

If you have any further queries you can contact the Pensions Board at Locall: 1890 65 65 65 The Pensions Board, Verschoyle

House,Lower Mount Street,Dublin2 You should also talk to your bank, insurance company, building society, financial advisor about pensions today.

About the Pensions Board The Pensions Board was established under the Pensions Act 1990, and aims to: promote the security and protection of members of occupational pension schemes, trust RACs and contributors to Personal Retirement Savings Accounts, in accordance with the Pensions Act, 1990, as amendedpromote the development of efficient national pension structures promote a level of participation in the national pension system which enables all citizens to acquire an adequate retirement income provide information and authoritative guidance to relevant parties in support of pension security, structures and participation.

About the National Pensions Awareness Campaign (NPAC) The Pensions Board, on behalf of the Government, organizes the National Pensions Awareness Campaign which aims to encourage greater awareness and understanding of pensions among the general public and specific groups where pension coverage is low increase the numbers addressing the adequacy of their pension provision progress development of financial education planning and programmes inIreland.

NPAC runs a number of initiatives and programmes with representative and organizational groups, attending various seminars and events, as well as promotion and advertising campaigns.

Grattan St, Sligo • www.ejsligo.com • Tel: 071-91-70824 OPEN 7 DAYS THURSDAY TILL 7PM, SUNDAY 2-6PM • www.ejsligo.com

Feature with Sonya Hamill of Blue Apple Dental - Irish Dentistry’s Dental Practice of the Year 2013

Shout it from the rooftops!

Dental Implant Retained Dentures Can Change Your Life when you aren’t thinking about it. The expressions of your mouth are a large part of your enjoyment in life, and your communication with other people. So it is no wonder that dissatisfaction with dentures can have such a large impact on you physically, personally and emotionally.

I

f I had to choose a dental treatment I am most passionate about, it is this.

Dentures can be a bit taboo nowadays.

Wearers of dentures, understandably, often don’t want to talk about them, and they can cause social embarrassment and lower your confidence. If you have never really listened to someone who is suffering with a problem conventional denture (by ‘conventional’ I mean just that, a traditional denture) describe

what it is like, you have probably never even considered what that would be like in your own mouth.

The Problems The most obvious problem people wearing dentures experience, in particular full dentures, is it being loose. This means it moves around, making it difficult to function adequately, to enjoy certain foods, and to feel confident in social situations that it will remain in place. It can also

cause discomfort, rubbing on soft gum tissue and causing irritation.

The likelihood of this is exacerbated for the lower jaw, and a loose lower denture can be the most disheartening, because this is where the ridge to hold it in place is usually most compromised. This can really take its toll on a person day to day.

When you think about it, your mouth is moving all day long.

You use it to eat, speak, smile, frown, kiss, and it moves even

The Solutions When I take a call from someone with a problem denture I feel so confident that the treatments we can offer them can make such a positive difference for them.

At Blueapple, helping people get rid of the problems of unstable dentures is one of our most popular treatment options, and has been for many years. The most predictable means of achieving this is with the use of dental implants. By placing a small number of dental implants we know we can provide a stable, reliable base a denture can clip on to.

You will be able to eat better, feel more comfortable, and smile more confidently knowing it is securely in place.

Dental implants are only small, but the jaw grows firmly around them and they are reliably anchored in place.

In the lower jaw this can be as little 2 implants, and in the upper jaw, 4. At the most straight forward level, someone who has no natural teeth remaining will often find that 2 implants on the lower jaw will help their situation, even if they choose to maintain a conventional, non-implant denture in the upper jaw.

In the upper jaw implants also give you the option of freeing up your palate again. As one patient lovingly described it, ‘I can now go on holiday and enjoy the feeling of ice-cream on the roof of my mouth again.’

A Step Further Of course, with dental implants you have the option of getting rid of a denture altogether, and going back to having nonremovable teeth fixed in place.

There are a variety of options for both removable and nonremovable teeth, depending on what you feel will work for you and how much you wish to spend.

Ultimately the choice is yours, but we can tell you that dental implants can change your life!

If you would like to explore your options with dental implants, call us today on 048 66386111.

‘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

What is a credit union?

The Place to Save & Borrow

A

credit union is a cooperative not for profit business. It is owned and controlled by the members through a democratic structure. It provides a facility whereby they can save together to finance a loan fund from which loans are advanced for Providence or Productive purposes to the members.

A credit union exists for the sole purpose of serving the needs of its members and is a not for profit business entity. The surplus income generated by the credit union is returned to the members in the form of a dividend, an interest rebate, or in the form of the continuation or improvement of existing services or the provision of additional services.

Your savings contribute to your credit union’s loan fund. So your savings are helping other members.

Members like you. A credit union exists only to serve its members — not to profit from their needs. Surplus income generated is returned to the members by way of a dividend an/or is directed to improved or additional services required by the members. Credit unions are non-sectarian and non-political, and continue that Irish tradition of co-operative self help, ie the “Meitheal”.

It has been shown throughout history that people working together, can achieve far more by cooperating, and pooling their resources and talents than they could achieve by individual effort. The success of the credit union movements worldwide is a clear illustration of this. Credit unions have served their members well in Ireland since 1958, and as long as there are active members, they will continue to servce their members needs.

Joining a credit union Joining a credit union is easy once you are within the common bond of the credit union.

What is the common bond?

The common bond is the factor/”thing” that members have in common which brings them into contact with each other, so that they know each other and can work together for their mutual benefit in the credit union. “Because of the common bond all members know and trust each other, and have the good of the credit union at heart, because they are the credit union. The common bond and the structure of the credit union ensures that the savings of the members are available to members for borrowing from their credit union. Hence the name credit union or union for credit. It also enables the credit union to assess the credit worthiness of prospective borrowers to be accurately and sympathetically assessed so that the risk factor is minimised.

The most usual common bonds are: Community bond (where all the members live, and in some cases work, in a particular locality).

Occupational bond (where all members are in the same profession or occupation, or work for the same employer).

Associational bond (where all the members are in the same society or association).

What do I need to join?

When applying for membership you will be asked for up to date proof of ID and proof of address, for example a current passport and recent utility bill.

These are needed only to establish if potential members have the common bond. This documentation is also required when the member wishes to open an account in the credit union.

Depending on the rules of your credit union, to be a member there will be an entrance fee of not more than €1 and you will need to hold a minimum savings of between one and ten shares.

LOANS AVAILABLE FOR ALL PURPOSES AT ULTRA COMPETITIVE RATES

Savings Whether you're saving for something in the future or just for a rainy day, regular saving is a good idea. Regular saving with your credit union is an even better idea. Call into your local Credit Union for more information.

Insurance Because your credit union was formed solely to help its members, it aims to offer fair and reasonable rates on savings and loans. But this is not the only advantage of being a member of your local credit union. Credit Union provides life savings and loan protection insurance at no cost to insurable members (terms and conditions apply) Additional insurance such as Repayment Protection Insurance or Death Benefit Insurance is also provided by some credit unions, provided the member pays the premiums.

Loans Most loans are 1, 3 or 5 years in duration. buy may be repaid over a longer period. From time to time individual credit unions will offer special loan rates so it is beneficial to check in with your local credit union regularly.

Call into your local Credit Union for more information.

Why your Credit Union is the best place to Save & borrow.....

Flexible Loans, replyable over 1-5 years Life Savings insurance at no cost to the member at very competitive rates Loans competitive rates wuith loan insurance at no cost to the member

Your Local Credit Union Offices Achill Credit Union Achill Sound, County Mayo Tel: 098 45959 Email: achillcu@eircom.net Ballina Credit Union O'Rahilly Street, Ballina, County Mayo Tel: 096 71066 Website: www.ballinacu.ie Email: info@ballinacu.ie Ballinrobe Credit Union Main Street, Ballinrobe, County Mayo Telephone: 094 9541402 Email: ballinrobecu@eircom.net Ballyhaunis & District Credit Union Clare Street, Ballyhaunis, County Mayo Tel: 094 9630998 Website: www.ballyhauniscu.ie Email: info@ballyhauniscu.ie Erris Credit Union Upper Barrack Street, Belmullet, County Mayo Tel: 097 82388 Email: erriscu@gmail.com

Castlebar Credit Union Credit Union Office, Market Square, Castlebar, County Mayo • Tel: 094 9022969 / Fax: 094 9022483 Website: www.castlebarcu.ie / Email: info@castlebarcu.ie Kiltimagh District Credit Union Main Street, Kiltimagh, County Mayo Tel: 094 9381848 Email: kiltimaghcu@eircom.net St. Colman's Credit Union The Square, Claremorris, County Mayo Tel: 094 9371159 www.claremorriscreditunion.com info@claremorriscreditunion.com Swinford & District Credit Union Main Street, Swinford, County Mayo • Tel: 094 925 2266 / Fax: 094 925 2271 Email: swinfordcu@eircom.net Credit Unions are regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Westport Credit Union Lower Bridge Street, Westport, County Mayo Tel: 098 25614 Email: info@westportcu.ie Ballaghaderreen & District Main Street, Ballaghaderreen, County Roscommon Tel: 094 9860522 Fax: 094 9860522 Website: www.ballaghcu.com Email: info@ballaghcu.com Castlerea & District Credit Union Barrack Street, Castlerea, County Roscommon Tel: 094 9620910 Website: www.castlereacu.ie Email: info@castlereacu.ie

For more information visit www.creditunion.ie

Thanking all our members for their support in 2013 - We look forward to supporting you and your families in 2014

Wishing you a Stress-Free Christmas and a Peaceful New Year from The Credit Union

Gardening Funeral Planning

How to write a Eulogy I f you find yourself lost for words when faced with writing a eulogy, perhaps our editor's advice on how to go about writing a eulogy will be of help. Please note that not all celebrants allow eulogies during the funeral service, so please make sure to ask for permission to deliver a eulogy.

Someone you love or care deeply about has died and you have been asked to say a few words at the funeral. It can be a daunting task, which is probably why it seems to be becoming rarer, but it can also be rewarding and fulfilling, not only for the person doing it but also for the family and friends of the deceased.

A eulogy, a word from Greek roots meaning roughly, ‘speak well of’, is a tribute to and a celebration of the life of the deceased and is usual spoken at the funeral. It should be short, three of four minutes at the most and can be sombre and humorous, sad and happy and even dramatic, often all at the same time.

Drama can be very effective, but is hard to carry off well. If you have ever seen the film ‘Four Weddings and a Funeral’, I’m sure you remember John Hannah’s stunning rendition of W.H.Auden’s poem ‘Funeral Blues’, the one that starts ‘Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone, Stop the dog from barking

with a juicy bone’. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

Some famous eulogies had drama from the opening words. At Mahatma Ghandi’s funeral his friend and protégé Jawaharlal Nehru began with this, ‘Friends and comrades, the light has gone out of our lives and there is darkness everywhere’. And Abraham Lincoln said of a fellow statesman and presidential candidate, ‘Alas, who can realise that Henry Clay is dead! Who can realise that never again that majestic form shall rise in the council-chambers of his country to beat back the storms of anarchy which may threaten, or pour the oil of peace upon the troubled billows as they rage and menace around?’ Stirring stuff.

Humour has its place too. At the memorial service for comedian Ronnie Barker in London’s Westminster Cathedral the cross was accompanied up the aisle by four candles (or fork ´andles, if you prefer) a reference to a famous sketch in one of his shows. In his eulogy, comedian Ronnie Corbett told the story of when Barker first went into a private hospital in North London for tests on his ailing heart and told the porter pushing his wheelchair that he didn’t want anyone to know he was there, “Oh, we’re very, very discreet in here,” the porter assured him. “In fact, we had Danny

La Rue in on Thursday.”

Most of all though, a eulogy is a cathartic experience, for you and for the deceased’s family and friends. It is an opportunity to remember the good things about the life just ended and to face the emotions of sadness and loss, fondness and love and remembered joy. Here are a few tips to help you along.

A eulogy is not a biography and you don’t have to cover every aspect of the deceased’s life. Use your own memories and impressions and, if you feel you want to, ask family and friends for their stories, then name those who contribute.. ‘Uncle Joe told me..’.

Don’t forget that you’re not on your own. It’s not a theatrical performance (although it’ll probably feel like one) and the audience will be on your side. Make sure you have water to drink while you are giving the eulogy and take a moment to breathe deeply and focus yourself before you start. If you have to stop in the middle to compose yourself, don’t panic. Remember that your audience are in the same emotional state. Give yourself a minute to recover your composure. Take a drink of water and carry on.

Choosing a theme, or two or three minor themes, will help you to focus. Perhaps the deceased’s character can be brought out by their love of a sport, or their in-

Kilcoyne Funeral Directors & Funeral Home

volvement with children, brothers and sisters, parents or a particular cause. If you can, try and show how their character influenced their choices in life. A eulogy is not a whitewash of negative character traits, but it’s not an opportunity to point them out either. Few of us are saintly, but the eulogy should concentrate on what was positive in a life. Omit the bad things if you can, there’ll be plenty of discussion of those later. If it’s not possible to talk about the deceased without mentioning something negative, try and put it in context.. ‘He fought his temper, but he was sometimes on the losing side..’.

Don’t be afraid to use poetry or quotations. If they mean something to you, friends and family in the context of the deceased then it doesn’t matter if it’s the words to ‘the Birdy Song’ or ‘Danny Boy’. This is remembrance from the heart, not great oratory, but do try to avoid clichés like ..’We are gathered here today..’, ‘..They never had a cross word..’, or ‘..She was a friend to everyone..’. Think about the big achievements in the deceased’s life, the hurdles overcome, the milestones reached. And then add in the little things that made them who they were, their fondness for collecting beer mats, or an addiction to Maeve Binchy. Remember a time they were happy and a time they were sad and mention the people they were especially close to, giving, if you can, incidents or stories that illustrate that closeness.

Write your eulogy in a form that will help you to deliver it. For some people, it’s enough to put the major points on ‘prompt cards’ and then fill out the stories at the time. Other people prefer to write the whole thing out, word for word.

Whichever you do, it is important to practise your delivery. If you write the speech out, try and write as you would speak and don’t worry too much about grammar. We rarely speak in proper sentences anyway and you should sound as if you’re speaking the eulogy, not reading it.

Make sure you get it right! If you are going to mention people, places or events that you don’t have first hand knowledge of, check names, facts and details first. There is nothing more distressing to someone at a funeral for a loved one than to hear their name given wrongly in the address.

You can end with a farewell to the deceased or a piece of music or a reading to remember them by or that was important to them. If you choose music or a reading, you could explain to those who might not know why it was important and what it means.

William Cowper said that ‘Grief is itself a medicine’ and writing and delivering a eulogy can help the healing process for you and your audience. Just remember, everyone’s on your side.

Finally, not all celebrants allow eulogies during the funeral service, so please make sure to ask for permission to deliver a eulogy.

Michael Kilcoyne

THOMAS STREET, CASTLEBAR

Member of Mayo County Council and Castlebar Town Council

Tel.: 094 9021646 anytime Fax: 094 9027930 Email: kilcoynefuneraldir@eircom.net

As always if I can ever be of assistance to you please contact me.

Member of Irish Association of Funeral Directors.

“Funerals can be arranged to meet a specific budget. We can advise on how to reduce costs without affecting quality or dignity.”

ÂWhen you need SonasIÊll Nursingbe HomethereÊ Cloverhiill me

Co. Roscommon P: 090-6628882. every Saturday from E. cloverhill@sonas.ie

Clinic 2pm in Thomas Street, Castlebar.

Tel. 087 2648869 / 094 9025105 Email: mkilcoyne@cllr.mayococo.ie

Gardening Funeral Planning

A 2 NIGHT BREAK IN GALWAY Park House Hotel & Restaurant, Forster Street , Eyre Square, Galway Tel:091-564 924 reservations@parkhousehotel.ie 4 Star Luxury Galway City Hotel A traditional warm welcome...

Since 1975 the Park House Hotel & Restaurant Galway has been welcoming guests. Our luxury 4 Star Hotel, situated in the heart of Galway City centre, has earned a reputation for the excellence of it's food and the quality of it's service. Our guests need only step outside our door to explore Galway City and it's wonderful surroundings. You will find a wealth of attractions from shopping, restaurants and bars, to museums, theatre, historical buildings, street entertainment and lots more. The Aran Islands, Connemara, the Burren and Cliffs of Moher are all easily reached for a day trip. There is always something happening in Galway with the many various festivals and events taking place throughout the year.

At the 4 Star Park House Hotel Galway you will find luxury accommodation. All 84 bedrooms are luxurious and spacious, offering all the comforts of home including; complimentary wi-fi (available throughout the Hotel), individually controlled air-conditioning and luxury eco-friendly toiletries.

Whether you choose one of our superior, deluxe or junior suite rooms you can rest assured that you will receive the best hospitality Galway has to offer.

We offer excellent hotel deals all year round, many of which include dinner at the renowned Park House Restaurant which is one of Galway's best and most popular restaurants. For midweek breaks, weekend breaks, corporate rates, bed & breakfast and room only rates, you will find the best deals on our website or by calling the Hotel direct.

Recognised for both the excellence of our food and our accommodation, Park House Hotel and Restaurant has consistently received many awards and accolades. However the greatest and most frequent compliment we receive is for our hotel staff who are genuinely friendly, welcoming and attentive. We look forward to welcoming you to Galway and the luxury and hospitality of the Park House Hotel...

The home of good food & service in Galway We have teamed up with the Park House Hotel, Galway to give you the chance to win a 2 Night Stay for two people, including Breakfast.

To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, simply answer the question and send your answer, along with your name, address, email address and telephone number into us at the addess below...

Q: How many bedrooms does the 4 Star Luxury Park House Hotel have?

Send your entries into us at : Park House Hotel Compeition Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, Northwest Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo Terms and Conditions Apply, Closing Date for entries is December 8th 2013

Forster Street, Eyre Square, Galway • Tel: 091-564-924

www.parkhousehotel.ie

EyeGardening Care

Rachel Murray Eyecare, Sligo

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achel Murray recently opened her contemporary and stylish opticians practice in Sligo. Rachel qualified in optometry from

Manchester University and has over 10 years extensive experience from working in leading optical practices in the UK and Ireland. Rachel has

invested in the latest eyecare technology to bring together the best of clinical and diagnostic practice.

The sight test is thorough and comprehensive, focusing on your eye health as well as vision correction. Testing includes checks for conditions such as crossed-eyes or squint in children. For the older population, testing is done for conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataract, amongst others.

Macular degeneration is a condition that can affect the eyes when you get older. In fact, for over 50s, it is the leading cause of sight loss in Ireland.

Glaucoma is also one of the main causes of blindness in Ireland,

but there are no symptoms in its early stages. About half of the people that have glaucoma don’t even know they have it! A thorough eye exam can detect glaucoma and macular degeneration in its early stages and prevent vision loss. An eyesight test is recommended at least every 2 years. What is important to Rachel is the individual attention and quality of each consultation, the provision of a comprehensive diagnosis and a highly accurate dispense from her practice. You are not committed to purchasing glasses after your sight test if they are not necessary. Rachel Murray Eyecare is approved for PRSI and medical card holders, and is wheelchair accessible.

They are committed to providing a tailor made service to suit your needs.

Rachel stocks a wide range of frames, with an understanding of current fashion trends and cutting edge styles to suit all budgets. There are a number of brands exclusive to Sligo including Michael Kors, Paul

Costelloe and Marc O’Polo and the latest designs from Prodesign, Ted Baker and Dilem and many more. The lenses recommended are usually from Zeiss, a renowned supplier of quality optical and camera products around the world.

Rachel Murray Eyecare guarantees to provide you with a pair of glasses that suits not only your budget, but also your personality, perfectly.

Remember, eyesight is one of the most precious gifts we have, so look after it. Contact Rachel Murray Eyecare to make an appointment, or simply call in and they will look after all your eye care needs.

Over the next few months, Rachel will be writing articles on common eye conditions.

Next issue, she will discuss macular degeneration, the most common cause of sight loss for over 50’s in Ireland.

You can contact Rachel Murray Eyecare on 071-91-42860 or visit the premises on Tobergal Lane, Sligo.

Top Energy Saving Tips If you are interested in spending money on making your home more energy efficient you should consider the following:

The Biggest & Best Value Fireplace Showrooms in Ireland

Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs):These use a fraction of the electricity an ordinary light bulb would use and last up to 10 times longer.

Save €€€s by calling to us • • • • •

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

Sligo Road, Enniskillen.

Phone: 048 66 326 327

U

sing energy more efficiently in your daily life comes easily once you get started. This site lists many ways to save energy around the house, at work and on the road. Here, we list the overall top six:

on your immersion or boiler so you can control when the heating comes on and goes off.

This means you have heating and hot water when and where you want it.

Many people keep their thermostat too high. Check it and if its above 20ºC turn it down. Lowering your thermostat by just 1ºC will knock 10% off your heating bill.

HEATING, PLUMBING & BATHROOM SUPPLIES

• Radiators • Boilers • Cylinders • Pumps • Stoves

Carrick Road, Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim

Telephone: 071­964­0593 Mon to Fri 8am to 5pm, Sat 9am to 1pm

Much of the heat loss from a house occurs through the windows, particularly if they are single glazed. So keep your curtains closed at night, even in empty rooms and also ensure that the curtains don’t hang over the radiators as that will just funnel all your heat out the window.

Appliances: Be demanding when you buy.

All appliances now need an energy label so check them for one.

Purchase ‘A’ rated appliances whenever possible, the amount they will save you on electricity will be more than the cost of replacing the existing appliances you have.

Electric Heaters: When buying heaters, make sure they are the right size for the rooms they are to heat.

Remember that electric heaters consume electricity at the most expensive charge rate.

Insulation: Insulating your attic and walls could save you 30-40% on your home heating bill.

While all of the above are simple tips that won’t cost you anything, some people may want to go a little further and actually spend money to save money.

Heating System Upgrade: The Home Energy Saving scheme will also grant aid high efficiency boilers and heating control improvements.

Close room doors to separate heated from unheated areas of your home, and minimise the area you are heating. There is no need to spend money heating rooms nobody is in.

Turn the lights off when leaving a room.

Switch appliances off rather than leaving them on standby.

This will save up to 20% of your appliances’ energy use.

Make better use of the timers

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Focus on Fashion by Rodney Munn of EJ Menswear Sligo

Choosing a Winter Coat Whenever you walk into a room what does your coat say about you?

I

think it would be fair to say that our Indian summer has probably come to its end, which means that from now on up to March the winter coat will be the most worn item in your wardrobe.

So from a practical point of view it is an absolute must, but from a very visual way it will give people an idea of who we are or aspire to be, and could leave a lasting impression.

Your coat will define you.

THE CLASSIC COUNTRY COAT €99.95"

THE COUNTRY COAT. This quilted nylon coat which in the past has been associated with a Lord of the manner look has become a winter classic.

This year we have one from the STATE OF ART which is shorter with some stylish detail.

Also at EJS we have one from 6th SENSE with corduroy shoulder panels and elbow patches, are you the new Lord Mount Charles?

THE PARKA The Parka has been taken to a new level over the last few years when some of the world’s sports and music celebrities have worn these jackets, any many of them approaching mature living.

It usually is identified with a hood a long gold zip and sometimes a fur trim, it generally has a heavier cosier

Hill walking tours – guided group walks, school ou!ngs, Gaisce Award walks, fund raising events, and exploring the Miners Way and Historical Trails of North Roscommon, Leitrim and Sligo.

Boyle Curlew Walkers – 24 guided walks and ou!ngs a year. Walks graded from ‘A’ for the experienced walker to level ‘C’ for short walks at a gentle pace suitable for first !me walkers.

Contact Philip James 0863353000 Facebook – Philip walking tours www.walkingboyle.com and www.philipwalking.com

look, and now very stylish, is that you coming down the main street?

THE CROMBIE COAT This is usually associated with a full length wool coat. This mannish coat worn over a suit always suggests a very professional, business look, and a high end purchase. However it can also be worn over jeans and adds a really touch of class to any outfit, The wool coat also comes in a three quarter length, and shorter

5 good reasons to go walking

1) Walking to stay healthy and fit.

2) Many walkers join a walking club just for the social outing.

3) Hill walking is a great way to learn about nature and see new places.

4) Exploring the hills is much safer with a group.

5) Learn and share ideas about comfortable walking gear and healthy eating.

with leather trims, epilates and big pockets, all these details suggest a different person, which one are you.

You may have identified yourself in some of these descriptions, but whichever coat you choose make sure that it works with your wardrobe.

For instance, if you wear a suit make sure that your coat comes down over your suit jacket, that if you have a zipped coat that the zip comes up high enough to protect you and keep you warm, warmth is important.

At EJS we have bought with the more mature man in mind.

This year we have a RALPH LAUREN jacket with real feather and down filling, it truly is a real beauty, a little more expensive but well worth it.

Also at EJS we have the European brand BUGATTI which has a wide range of very stylish coats from wool, cotton and microfiber, they truly are classic coats that will leave a lasting impression.

SO keep warm, look well and make your imprint where ever you go.

WINTER OVER COATS FROM €119.95

Page 23 Mature Living November 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

All About The Fairways (1967-1983)

Stage 1: The Fairways from Offaly The story of the Fairways actually starts in Edenderry, Co. Offaly with the Agents Showband. In 1967, Mick Clerkin (head of Release Records) took over management of the band and changed their name to the Fairways. The band signed a recording contract with King Records and released their first single in January of 1968, Flippidy Flop.

The record, written by lead singer, the late Gary Street (real name Joe Conway), and guitarist, the late Mike Bryan, was an instant success and reached number ten in the Irish Charts. By the middle of the year,

Clerkin had formed his own Release Records and the band's next release, The Invisible Reilly, was also the first for the new record company which would change the face of the Irish Entertainment scene.

With Clerkin's astute management, the band started to make inroads with the big bands and started to play the bigger ballrooms across the country. Sadly, Mike Bryan passed away just two years later in April, 1970.

Along with Gary and Mike, the rest of the original lineup included Ollie Kennedy (bass), Danny Slevin (trombone), Michael Moore (sax), Bobby Clarke (trumpet), P.J. Walsh (drums) and band leader Pat Cleary

(keyboards).

Over the next two years, the band continued to work regularly and released three more singles, but none did as well as their debut disc.

During this period, the band got a lot of attention, especially with every new single they released as almost all their material was original, which was unusual for the time. Sadly though, none of their follow up records made the charts and although the band started with high promise it never quite broke into the big time. In the November 21st, 1969 issue of Spotlight, the Insight column reported that the Fairways were breaking up, with Gary determined to go it alone.

What had actually happened was that most of the band were going to join former Mighty Avon Larry Cunningham's new outfit, The Blue Boys.

Michael Bryan (guitar), Ollie Kennedy (bass), Pat Cleary (keyboards), and Bobbie Clarke (trumpet) were joined by Terry Reynolds and Aidan Cunningham (guitar) to form Larry's the new band which hit the road on St. Stephen's Night, 1969 in the Fairyland Ballroom, Roscommon.

Stage 2: The New Fairways from Ballina Meanwhile in Ballina in July, 1969, Tom Kelly had just formed the Abilene Showband. The band was an expanded version of the Tom Kelly Four. The original lineup was: Tom Murphy (drums), Noel Kilcullen from Enniscrone (lead guitar), Noel Barrett (RIP - rhythm guitar), P.J. Clarke (bass), Des McDonald (trumpet), Gerry Duffy (sax) and Tom himself on keyboards and lead vocals. The band release a record called, "I'm Not The Boy I Used To Be" featuring Tom on lead vocals. The band did well locally, but Tom knew he needed a real front man if the Page 24 Mature Living November 2013

band was to make it outside of Mayo.

In December, after the break up of the original Fairways, Gary was left without a band and Tom asked him to come to Ballina to join the the Abilene. Gary moved to Ballina and there was another change in the lineup as Aidan Kerins, from Sligo, replaced P.J. Clarke on bass. PJ went on to form local group, The Richmonds, and was on the road until 2000.

At that time the late Andy Creighton managed the band and Tom changed the band's name to Gary Street and the Tom Kelly Sound. In an article in Spotlight in March, 1970, the changed was explained by founder Tom Kelly, "With a country and western image, Abilene was fine, but since Gary joined we've been doing a lot of pop and we had to start thinking of a new title."

The band released its first single in June called "The Next Time that I Cry" on the Pye label. It didn't do much for the band, or its lead singer, but they were playing steady gigs around the country and building their reputation.

They continued with the name for a short time until Tom was able to get permission from Mick Clerkin to use the name, Gary Street and the New Fairways. In the Fall of 1970, the band was still struggling to make it on the national ballroom scene and drummer Tom Murphy agreed to manage the band, which he did for the next six months. With things slowly improving, the band underwent a major change in personnel and format in early 1971. Alec DeGabriele joined the band on lead guitar, Mike Kelly (Tom's brother) replaced Aidan Kerins on bass, and John Crean (RIP) joined on drums.

The band decided to move away from the showband format and dropped their brass section entirely.

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

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...

They then recruited a female singer, Karen King (real name, Mary Kay O'Toole) from Cleveland to join Gary out front. The band's programme moved from standard brass dominated music to a slightly edgier, rock sound. However, in 1972, the band's first single with the new lineup was Is Anybody Goin' To San Antone, a country number which was not an accurate reflection of the band's musical direction at the time.

At that point, Tom Murphy left the band entirely and Tom Kelly reluctantly started to manage the band (when nobody else would).

Business slowly built up over the next couple of years. However, about a year later, Alec and Karen emigrated to Cleveland and got married.

Stage 3: Gary Street and Sandy Duskey In May 1974, Tom heard about a new female vocalist who had just returned from Wales and was making a name for herself on the cabaret scene in and around Sligo with her band Easy Listenin'. The singer was Philomena Ellis, who had chosen the stage name, Sandy Duskey. Sandy accepted the chance to tour on the ballroom circuit and signed with the Fairways. She played her last gig with Easy Listenin' on the 5th of June, 1974 and started with the Fairways two nights later. Sandy immediately began to attract media attention and although the band was billed as Gary Street, Sandy Duskey, and the Fairways, a shift was definitely underway. The band hit the road in July, but within a few months (October) a change took place in the lineup when guitarist Hugh McCormick left and was replaced

by Tommy McDonagh, additionally, Sandy's first cousin, Marian arrived in Ireland from Wales and joined the band, using the stage name Nina Duskey. The band was now one of the few to feature two female singers and even more unusual, three singers who did not play any

Left to right: Tom Kelly (keyboards), Sandy Duskey (vocals), Mike Kelly (bass), Gary Street (vocals), Tommy McDonagh (guitar), and Murrough O'Brien (drums) instruments. Although cousins, Nina was advertised as Sandy's sister, thus paving the way for the Duskey Sisters name which would come later in the band's history.

Even though they had three lead singers, the band did not release a single for almost two years. It was January, 1976 when their first record released on the Hawk label with Sandy was Come Back Billie Jo, a country number, which again wasn't really indicative of the band's programme, which had been mostly pop with some rock thrown in (including a surprisingly heavy version of the Animal's House of the Rising Sun). The single climbed to number 13 in the Irish charts and was gone as quick as it came.

However, it got a lot of airplay and

helped established Sandy as the driving force behind the band's success.

As Sandy garnered more and more press, it was almost inevitable that Gary would leave the band and in 1976, he did just that. Gary went to England where he played for many years in a resident band. Gary sadly passed away in 2003 in England.

The band continued to release records that featured Sandy including Hey Jude and Let It Shine. In a way, the band also continued to suffer from an image problem as their recordings were very much in a soft pop or country vein, while their programme was still mainly chart material. Although we are not sure of the dates, it was

during this period when cousin Nina left the band and returned to Wales.

After Gary's departure, Tom and the band focused on pop music. In 1978 Tom retired from playing live with the band to focus on management and they brought Sandy's real sister, Barbara Ellis, into the band along with a female keyboard player, giving them one of the only three girl lineups in the country.

However, a split occurred in the band in November of 1978. Three members departed leaving Michael, Sandy and sister Barbara remaining.

While the band scrambled to find replacements, Tom Kelly tapped his new act, the Kim Newport Band, to play with the Fairways for the best part of a month. The lineup featured

Kim Newport (vocals), Gerry Gallagher (guitar), Seamie McGowan (guitar) and Dick Lynott (drums) from the Kim Newport Band (both Dick and Gerry had played with Sandy in Easy Listenin), along with Sandy (vocals), Barbara (vocals) and Mike Kelly (bass) from the Fairways.

Stage 4: The Duskey Sisters In the meantime, the Fairways recruited Sandy's cousin, Marian (aka Nina Duskey), back into the band and she brought with her former BBC orchestra percussionist, Lyndon Keylock, who would later marry Marian. As one of the few girl trios ever to front a showband (Sheeba and Maxi, Dick and Twink being the only other ones of which

we are aware), the girls became very popular with punters and the band continued to hit new heights.

Dave Moriarty rounded out the lineup on keyboards and the band was a seven piece again.

In the early 80's the band left Hawk records and struck out on their own releasing Don't Feel Like Dancing which they recorded in the new Greenfield's Studios in Headford and released on the Gerry Gallagher's Sligo-based Sunset Records. Although the record did not do very well, it was reflective of a growing trend for bands to record and release their own material without relying on the Dublin recording studio scene.

The early eighties saw the Duskey Sisters become so popular that Tom finally decided to drop the Fairways name altogether. In 1981, they sang former Miami trombonist, Danny Ellis', entry in the National Song Contest, "Where Does That Love Come From." Unfortunately they lost out to the "other" trio of females, Sheeba, who won with their rendition of "Horoscopes. " However, they were back again in 1982, and this time won the Irish National Song Contest singing Sally Keating's song, (and Ireland's entry in Eurovision) "Here Today, Gone Tomorrow." Although the song didn't finish in the Top Ten, the exposure helped the band on the ballroom circuit and also gave Sandy a glimpse of success on the International scene which she would move to a few years later. For the song contest and a short period on the road, they added another Duskey to their ranks, cousin Danny. Although the Fairways name was gone, it was not until 1983 when the band officially ceased to exist. After a serious road accident, the band went off the road for a prolonged period while Sandy recuperated and they never returned.

Sandy would change to her married name, Sandy Kelly, and form a country outfit, The Sandy Kelly Band. The Fairways disappeared into showband history.

Page 25 Mature Living November 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

All About The Fairways (1967-1983)

Stage 1: The Fairways from Offaly The story of the Fairways actually starts in Edenderry, Co. Offaly with the Agents Showband. In 1967, Mick Clerkin (head of Release Records) took over management of the band and changed their name to the Fairways. The band signed a recording contract with King Records and released their first single in January of 1968, Flippidy Flop.

The record, written by lead singer, the late Gary Street (real name Joe Conway), and guitarist, the late Mike Bryan, was an instant success and reached number ten in the Irish Charts. By the middle of the year,

Clerkin had formed his own Release Records and the band's next release, The Invisible Reilly, was also the first for the new record company which would change the face of the Irish Entertainment scene.

With Clerkin's astute management, the band started to make inroads with the big bands and started to play the bigger ballrooms across the country. Sadly, Mike Bryan passed away just two years later in April, 1970.

Along with Gary and Mike, the rest of the original lineup included Ollie Kennedy (bass), Danny Slevin (trombone), Michael Moore (sax), Bobby Clarke (trumpet), P.J. Walsh (drums) and band leader Pat Cleary

(keyboards).

Over the next two years, the band continued to work regularly and released three more singles, but none did as well as their debut disc.

During this period, the band got a lot of attention, especially with every new single they released as almost all their material was original, which was unusual for the time. Sadly though, none of their follow up records made the charts and although the band started with high promise it never quite broke into the big time. In the November 21st, 1969 issue of Spotlight, the Insight column reported that the Fairways were breaking up, with Gary determined to go it alone.

What had actually happened was that most of the band were going to join former Mighty Avon Larry Cunningham's new outfit, The Blue Boys.

Michael Bryan (guitar), Ollie Kennedy (bass), Pat Cleary (keyboards), and Bobbie Clarke (trumpet) were joined by Terry Reynolds and Aidan Cunningham (guitar) to form Larry's the new band which hit the road on St. Stephen's Night, 1969 in the Fairyland Ballroom, Roscommon.

Stage 2: The New Fairways from Ballina Meanwhile in Ballina in July, 1969, Tom Kelly had just formed the Abilene Showband. The band was an expanded version of the Tom Kelly Four. The original lineup was: Tom Murphy (drums), Noel Kilcullen from Enniscrone (lead guitar), Noel Barrett (RIP - rhythm guitar), P.J. Clarke (bass), Des McDonald (trumpet), Gerry Duffy (sax) and Tom himself on keyboards and lead vocals. The band release a record called, "I'm Not The Boy I Used To Be" featuring Tom on lead vocals. The band did well locally, but Tom knew he needed a real front man if the Page 24 Mature Living November 2013

band was to make it outside of Mayo.

In December, after the break up of the original Fairways, Gary was left without a band and Tom asked him to come to Ballina to join the the Abilene. Gary moved to Ballina and there was another change in the lineup as Aidan Kerins, from Sligo, replaced P.J. Clarke on bass. PJ went on to form local group, The Richmonds, and was on the road until 2000.

At that time the late Andy Creighton managed the band and Tom changed the band's name to Gary Street and the Tom Kelly Sound. In an article in Spotlight in March, 1970, the changed was explained by founder Tom Kelly, "With a country and western image, Abilene was fine, but since Gary joined we've been doing a lot of pop and we had to start thinking of a new title."

The band released its first single in June called "The Next Time that I Cry" on the Pye label. It didn't do much for the band, or its lead singer, but they were playing steady gigs around the country and building their reputation.

They continued with the name for a short time until Tom was able to get permission from Mick Clerkin to use the name, Gary Street and the New Fairways. In the Fall of 1970, the band was still struggling to make it on the national ballroom scene and drummer Tom Murphy agreed to manage the band, which he did for the next six months. With things slowly improving, the band underwent a major change in personnel and format in early 1971. Alec DeGabriele joined the band on lead guitar, Mike Kelly (Tom's brother) replaced Aidan Kerins on bass, and John Crean (RIP) joined on drums.

The band decided to move away from the showband format and dropped their brass section entirely.

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

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...

They then recruited a female singer, Karen King (real name, Mary Kay O'Toole) from Cleveland to join Gary out front. The band's programme moved from standard brass dominated music to a slightly edgier, rock sound. However, in 1972, the band's first single with the new lineup was Is Anybody Goin' To San Antone, a country number which was not an accurate reflection of the band's musical direction at the time.

At that point, Tom Murphy left the band entirely and Tom Kelly reluctantly started to manage the band (when nobody else would).

Business slowly built up over the next couple of years. However, about a year later, Alec and Karen emigrated to Cleveland and got married.

Stage 3: Gary Street and Sandy Duskey In May 1974, Tom heard about a new female vocalist who had just returned from Wales and was making a name for herself on the cabaret scene in and around Sligo with her band Easy Listenin'. The singer was Philomena Ellis, who had chosen the stage name, Sandy Duskey. Sandy accepted the chance to tour on the ballroom circuit and signed with the Fairways. She played her last gig with Easy Listenin' on the 5th of June, 1974 and started with the Fairways two nights later. Sandy immediately began to attract media attention and although the band was billed as Gary Street, Sandy Duskey, and the Fairways, a shift was definitely underway. The band hit the road in July, but within a few months (October) a change took place in the lineup when guitarist Hugh McCormick left and was replaced

by Tommy McDonagh, additionally, Sandy's first cousin, Marian arrived in Ireland from Wales and joined the band, using the stage name Nina Duskey. The band was now one of the few to feature two female singers and even more unusual, three singers who did not play any

Left to right: Tom Kelly (keyboards), Sandy Duskey (vocals), Mike Kelly (bass), Gary Street (vocals), Tommy McDonagh (guitar), and Murrough O'Brien (drums) instruments. Although cousins, Nina was advertised as Sandy's sister, thus paving the way for the Duskey Sisters name which would come later in the band's history.

Even though they had three lead singers, the band did not release a single for almost two years. It was January, 1976 when their first record released on the Hawk label with Sandy was Come Back Billie Jo, a country number, which again wasn't really indicative of the band's programme, which had been mostly pop with some rock thrown in (including a surprisingly heavy version of the Animal's House of the Rising Sun). The single climbed to number 13 in the Irish charts and was gone as quick as it came.

However, it got a lot of airplay and

helped established Sandy as the driving force behind the band's success.

As Sandy garnered more and more press, it was almost inevitable that Gary would leave the band and in 1976, he did just that. Gary went to England where he played for many years in a resident band. Gary sadly passed away in 2003 in England.

The band continued to release records that featured Sandy including Hey Jude and Let It Shine. In a way, the band also continued to suffer from an image problem as their recordings were very much in a soft pop or country vein, while their programme was still mainly chart material. Although we are not sure of the dates, it was

during this period when cousin Nina left the band and returned to Wales.

After Gary's departure, Tom and the band focused on pop music. In 1978 Tom retired from playing live with the band to focus on management and they brought Sandy's real sister, Barbara Ellis, into the band along with a female keyboard player, giving them one of the only three girl lineups in the country.

However, a split occurred in the band in November of 1978. Three members departed leaving Michael, Sandy and sister Barbara remaining.

While the band scrambled to find replacements, Tom Kelly tapped his new act, the Kim Newport Band, to play with the Fairways for the best part of a month. The lineup featured

Kim Newport (vocals), Gerry Gallagher (guitar), Seamie McGowan (guitar) and Dick Lynott (drums) from the Kim Newport Band (both Dick and Gerry had played with Sandy in Easy Listenin), along with Sandy (vocals), Barbara (vocals) and Mike Kelly (bass) from the Fairways.

Stage 4: The Duskey Sisters In the meantime, the Fairways recruited Sandy's cousin, Marian (aka Nina Duskey), back into the band and she brought with her former BBC orchestra percussionist, Lyndon Keylock, who would later marry Marian. As one of the few girl trios ever to front a showband (Sheeba and Maxi, Dick and Twink being the only other ones of which

we are aware), the girls became very popular with punters and the band continued to hit new heights.

Dave Moriarty rounded out the lineup on keyboards and the band was a seven piece again.

In the early 80's the band left Hawk records and struck out on their own releasing Don't Feel Like Dancing which they recorded in the new Greenfield's Studios in Headford and released on the Gerry Gallagher's Sligo-based Sunset Records. Although the record did not do very well, it was reflective of a growing trend for bands to record and release their own material without relying on the Dublin recording studio scene.

The early eighties saw the Duskey Sisters become so popular that Tom finally decided to drop the Fairways name altogether. In 1981, they sang former Miami trombonist, Danny Ellis', entry in the National Song Contest, "Where Does That Love Come From." Unfortunately they lost out to the "other" trio of females, Sheeba, who won with their rendition of "Horoscopes. " However, they were back again in 1982, and this time won the Irish National Song Contest singing Sally Keating's song, (and Ireland's entry in Eurovision) "Here Today, Gone Tomorrow." Although the song didn't finish in the Top Ten, the exposure helped the band on the ballroom circuit and also gave Sandy a glimpse of success on the International scene which she would move to a few years later. For the song contest and a short period on the road, they added another Duskey to their ranks, cousin Danny. Although the Fairways name was gone, it was not until 1983 when the band officially ceased to exist. After a serious road accident, the band went off the road for a prolonged period while Sandy recuperated and they never returned.

Sandy would change to her married name, Sandy Kelly, and form a country outfit, The Sandy Kelly Band. The Fairways disappeared into showband history.

Page 25 Mature Living November 2013

Travel

Self guided walking holiday in France

B

ased at small auberge in western France – wonderful walking, glorious countryside, varied routes, idyllic surroundings, excellent food and wine, lovely accommodation, a relaxed atmosphere and

reasonable price. Price includes absolutely everything during your stay – accommodation, all meals, all drinks (24/7 coffee, tea, wine, beer, fruit juices, soft drinks, etc), route notes, highlighted maps and friendly

advice.

Delightful walking and idyllic surroundings, a glorious rural paradise with miles of secluded paths and lanes in unspoiled and varying countryside, oodles of birds, butterflies and wild flow-

Holiday in India, Himalayan foothills

ers to see and different walks each day. Professional, easy to follow route-notes and highlighted large-scale maps are provided together with friendly advice and information. The length of walks can be varied to suit you.

This Walking Holiday is based at a small private Auberge in Deepest Rural France where exceptional hospitality is based on superb cuisine, plenty of good wine and great bonhomie. The amicable four-course evening meal following aperitifs-atseven is a much enjoyed feature of this holiday. Cuisine is based on wholesome local ingredients, skilfully prepared and pleasingly presented. The accommodation and amenities are excellent and include a heated pool. Route notes and highlighted maps are supplied as well as friendly support, advice and information.

The walking routes start and finish at the Auberge and are suitable for experienced and moderately experienced walkers. Routes are also available for guests looking for an introduction to walking, although it is necessary to be reasonably fit to enjoy the walking on offer. In addition, for guests arriving with their own transport, routes are available in the Marais Poitevin and in the region of

Mervent Forest and Vouvent.

These are exceptional localities outside normal walking range.

The normal season is April to October. March is agreeable with eye-catching blossom.

April, May and June are popular walking months with glorious spring weather, verges full of wild flowers and the countryside abounding with new life.

July to September are pleasantly agreeable for walking when the weather hot but not too hot. October is very pretty with mostly clement weather and brilliant autumn colours – perfect walking conditions.

There are many other things to do in addition to the wonderful walking. Cycling and simply relaxing holidays are also available at the Auberge. In addition, this part of France is particularly rich in sites of historic, cultural and natural interest and the region (Poitou-Charentes) has been nominated for 2012 by the Lonely Planet Guide as one of the top ten tourist destinations in the world.

The blend of wonderful walking, idyllic surroundings, plenty of other things to do, exceptional hospitality, great bonhomie and a reasonable price make this a complete and totally agreeable holiday.

Pilgrimage to MEDJUGORJE Group Leader: Hubert McHugh Accompanied by: Fr. Vincent Connaughton

A

well paced trip full of contrasts; historic cities, wonderful mountain retreats and an abundance of wildlife!

Following an exploration of the historic city of Delhi you travel to the capital of Rajasthan, and the ‘pink city’ of Jaipur, where camel carts make their way through streets full of colour.

Next you enjoy the unequalled beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra before travelling north where the emphasis of the trip changes as you head into the hills to Naini Tal the old lakeside hillstation of the British.

Descending from the hills you now seek wildlife in the countryside around Betal Ghat and explore

Page 26 Mature Living November 2013

Corbett NP, going on jeep safaris in search of wild elephant and the elusive Bengal tiger! You conclude your journey with a trip to the Ganges to explore the holy city of Rishikesh, before returning to Delhi for further exploration or perhaps some shopping.

For more info on any of the above look on reponsibletravel.com

13th August 2014 (day Flight Ex-Knock)

7 Nights Half Board - €669 per person Early Booking Offers €150 Off if paid in full by 12th December ‘13 €100 Off if paid in full by 3rd February ‘14 €50 Off if Deposit paid by 3rd February ‘14 Further details, Tel: 087-2201-879 or Fr. Vincent 087-9563-668 or 071-91-64125 in Association with Joe Walsh Tours

New Zealand and islands bird watching cruise

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isten to the names: Snares, Bounty, Antipodes, Auckland, Campbell and Macquarie. These are islands only ever visited by a handful of explorers, unlucky castaways, government scientists and a few Expedition Cruises.

The Subantarctic Islands occupy the tempestuous latitudes of the Roaring Forties and the

Furious Fifties but they are known also as the Albatross Latitudes and with good reason. Ten of the world's albatross species breed in the region; five of them nowhere else but here! In fact this zone, where the air is never still, hosts the most diverse collection of seabirds in the world, more than 40 species breed down here - that is at least 11

percent of the entire world's seabird population.

Put simply, it is a birder's dream and on the must-do lists of birders around the world.

Over 120 species have been observed on the islands or in the surrounding ocean but getting there and getting to actually see them is no easy task. These places are isolated, remote and

forbidding territory, their isolation playing a part in protecting their wildlife. The Subantarctic Islands are designated UNESCO World Heritage sites and are afforded the highest conservation status and protection by the Australian and New Zealand governments, so passage to their shores is not granted lightly.

A voyage through these islands

will turn up myriad unexpected delights. As well as the vast albatross population, the fulmars, petrels and prions in abundance, the penguins are also very special to this region. Of eight penguin species breeding here, three are endemic: the Snares Crested, Erect-crested and the Royal Penguin. Through their diversity, the land birds indicate just how long these islands have been isolated: no fewer than 15 species are Subantarctic endemics. Taking in the Chatham archipelago on the way, we are fortunate to meet with experienced local guides and to see and photograph the many endemic island species found there.

Voyage Highlights: * Visit a birder's dream - over 120 bird species have been observed in the area * Including three endemic penguin species - Snares Crested, Erect Crested and * Royal Penguins * More than 40 seabird species breed in the Subantarctic Islands • Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Small group cooking holiday in Thailand C

ook and chop your way around Thailand on this 2week cultural and cooking holiday. Perfect for those keen to learn about Thailand and its culture. And along the way, you'll learn how to cook Thai food, make new friends and having a relaxing holiday too.

This itinerary is perfectly balanced. You'll discover 4 different areas and have a variety of enriching experiences that represent Thailand & time to relax. This is an alternative to say going to one place at one cooking school, or taking an ‘adventure holiday’ which tends to have a lot of moving around.

You'll begin your holiday in Bangkok to kick-start your Thai cooking skills before you head off on your tour around Thailand.

You will learn how to pick and choose the freshest ingredients and cook up a storm in cooking schools as well as meet passionate home cooks (please note it is not possible in a group to cook in private homes, you are welcome to help with the

chopping or tasting though!).

You'll also have experiences diverse from feeding fish at a local temple to swimming amongst fish in coral reefs.

This tour is ideal for solo travellers, with no single supplement. Couples/pairs of friends who wish to travel with

other people are also welcome to book. The maximum group size is 12, however, if the first 9 places are booked by solo travellers, due to our support for smaller accommodation, the group will be closed.

Likewise, we are only able to cater for one set of sharers

who require twin beds. Early booking is advised!

We are able to accommodate vegetarians and vegans on this trip, just bear in mind others on the trip will be cooking with meat and fish.

If you are travelling with another person, we also

recommend having a look at our private cooking tours which offer more personal experiences than we can manage in a group tour (though of course we do the best to provide the best experiences we can within the limitations of a group tour).

Page 27 Mature Living November 2013

Food and Drink

Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy butter

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oaded with big pieces of fruit, Mary Berry's Christmas pudding recipe will win over the harshest critics.

Equipment and preparation: You will need a 1.4 litre/2½ pint pudding basin Ingredients For the pudding 450g/1lb dried mixed fruit (use a mixture of sultanas, raisins, and snipped apricots) 1 small cooking apple, peeled, cored and roughly chopped 1 orange, finely grated rind and juice 3 tbsp brandy, sherry, or rum, plus extra for flaming 75g/3oz butter, softened, plus extra for greasing 100g/3½oz light muscovado sugar 2 free-range eggs 100g/4oz self-raising flour 1 tsp mixed spice 40g/1½oz fresh white breadcrumbs 40g/1½oz whole shelled almonds, roughly chopped For the brandy butter 100g/3½oz unsalted butter, softened 225g/8oz icing sugar, sieved 3 tbsp brandy, rum or cognac To serve 4 tbsp brandy or rum Preparation method Measure the sultanas, raisins, apricots and apple into a bowl

with the orange juice. Add the measured brandy (rum or sherry), stir and leave to marinate for about one hour.

Put the measured butter, sugar and grated orange rind into a large bowl and cream together with a wooden spoon or a handheld whisk until light and fluffy.

Gradually beat in the eggs, adding a little of the measured flour if the mixture starts to curdle. Sift together the flour and mixed spice, then fold into the creamed mixture with the breadcrumbs and the nuts. Add the soaked dried fruits with their soaking liquid and stir well. Generously butter a 1.4 litre/2½ pint pudding basin. Cut a small disc of foil or baking parchment and press into the base of the basin.

Spoon into the prepared pudding basin and press the mixture down with the back of a spoon. Cover the pudding with a layer of baking parchment paper and foil, both pleated across the middle to allow for expansion. Tie securely with string and trim off excess paper and foil with scissors.

To steam, put the pudding in the top of a steamer filled with simmering water, cover with a lid and steam for eight hours, topping up the water as necessary.

To boil the pudding, put a metal jam jar lid, or metal pan lid, into the base of a large pan to act as a trivet. Place a long, doubled strip of foil in the pan,

Moussaka A good moussaka is a joy to behold with cinnamon spiced lamb mingling with aubergines and a delicious creamy sauce.

Ingredients 2 aubergines, cut into 1cm/½in slices 1 tbsp fine sea salt 750g/1lb 10½oz lamb mince 1 onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 tsp dried oregano 1½ tsp dried mint 2 bay leaves 1 cinnamon stick 1 tbsp plain flour ½ tsp flaked sea salt, plus extra for seasoning 200ml/7fl oz red wine

1 x 400g/14oz can chopped tomatoes 2 tbsp tomato purée 7 tbsp olive oil 500g/1lb 2oz Maris Piper potatoes, peeled, sliced into 1cm/½in slices sea salt and freshly ground black pepper For the white sauce 50g/2oz butter 50g/2oz plain flour 400ml/14fl oz milk 1 tsp finely grated nutmeg 25g/1oz finely grated parmesan 1 free-range egg, beaten Preparation method Place the aubergine pieces in a colander and sprinkle

Page 28 Mature Living November 2013

between the trivet and the pudding basin, ensuring the ends of the strip reach up and hang over the edges of the pan.

This will help you to lift the heavy pudding basin out of the pan of hot water when it has finished cooking.

Lower the pudding onto the trivet and pour in enough boiling water to come half way up the side of the bowl. Cover with a lid, bring the water back to the boil, then simmer for about seven hours, until the

with salt. Set aside for 10 minutes.

Put the lamb, onions, garlic, oregano, mint, bay leaves and cinnamon in a large heavy-based frying pan and cook over a medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring with a wooden spoon to break up the meat.

Technique: How to brown mince Stir in the flour, salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper. Add the wine, tomatoes, tomato purée and bring to a simmer. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the lamb is tender and the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set aside.

Rinse the aubergine pieces under cold running water

pudding is a glorious deep brown colour, topping up the water as necessary.

For the brandy butter, place the butter into a mixing bowl and cream with a wooden spoon until light and fluffy – or for speed use an electric hand-held mixer. Beat in the sieved icing sugar until smooth, then add brandy, rum or cognac, to taste.

Spoon into a serving dish, cover and set aside in the fridge. Technique: Creaming butter by hand

and pat dry in a clean tea towel. Heat three tablespoons of the oil in a heavy-based frying pan and fry the aubergines for 2-3 minutes on each side, adding more oil when necessary. Remove from the pan and set aside to drain on kitchen paper.

Cook the potatoes in boiling water for five mintues, then drain in a colander under running water until cold.

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

For the white sauce, melt the butter in a large saucepan and stir in the flour. Cook for a few seconds, then gradually stir in the milk. Add half the parmesan and the grated nutmeg. Simmer the sauce gently for 4-5 minutes, stirring regularly. Season to

When cooked through, remove the pudding from the pan and cool completely.

Discard the paper and foil and replace with fresh. Store in a cool, dry place.

To serve, on Christmas Day, steam or boil the pudding for about two hours to reheat. Turn the pudding onto a serving plate. To flame, warm the brandy or rum in a small pan, pour it over the hot pudding and set light to it. Serve with brandy butter.

taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the beaten egg. Cover the surface of the sauce with clingfilm to prevent a skin forming.

Spoon one third of the meat sauce into a large, shallow ovenproof dish.

Cover with a layer of

potatoes and a layer of aubergines. Repeat the layers twice more, finishing with the aubergines. Pour over the white sauce, making sure it covers in a thick, even layer. Sprinkle with the remaining parmesan. Bake in the oven for 45 minutes, or until deep golden-brown and bubbling.

WINE GUIDE Food and Drink

with The Wine Buff, Tobergal Lane, The Italian Quarter Tel: 071 9140020 • www.thewinebuff.com Email: joe@thewinebuff.com

W

elcome to our ‘Wine of the Month’ column where, each month, we will tell you about a red and a white wine Call in to us and join our Christmas club.

Country: Italy Grape Variety: Pinot Grigio Type: White Style: Medium Alcohol Content:12.5% : Price: €11.95

Our white this month is CASTELLA PINOT GRIGIO, FRUILLI Wine Region: Fruilli

A dry, white wine with pale golden reflections. The bouquet is intense with fragrances of light citrus fruits and white

flowers. On the palate it is well balanced with hints of sweet grapefruit that carry through to a crisp, dry finish.

The Azienda Agricola of Giuseppe & Luigi Anselmi, in the Friuli region, was founded in the 1920's by their grandparents who have passed on their traditional experience and sense of belonging to the land to three generations of Anselmi.

This beautiful vineyard has been cultivated by the current owners, the two brothers Anselmi, Giuseppe and Luigi, along with their respective children, continuing the noble tradition of their family founders. The tiny region of Friuli lies in the northwest of Italy, wedged between the wine region of Veneto and borders Austria, Slovenia and Croatia.

Here, cool Alpine air, locally called "ronchi" sweeps down through the terraced vineyards ideal for developing fruity and refreshing white wines.

Friuli has built a glowing reputation in Italy and abroad for white wines. The Friulan style in whites favours the exquisitely fresh and fruity; with delicate fragrance and flavour that expresses clear varietal character. Many producers consider their whites to be too pure and linear to benefit from wood ageing.

Enjoy it on its own or with fish,

seafood or poultry.

Our red wine this month is ONTANON CRIANZA, RIOJA Wine Region: Rioja Country: Spain Grape Variety: Tempranillo Grenache Type: Red Style: Medium Bodied Alcohol Content:13% Natural Cork Price: €15.95 A very classic Rioja. A mixture of bramble, red-berried fruit and soft spices on the nose mixed in with hints of oak. The palate is full of fleshy ripe flavours, a firm slightly oaky middle with stylish length and excellent balance.

Bodegas Ontañón is an artisan winery which represents, through the expression of the artist Miguel Angel Sainz, the mythology and the culture of wine.

Bodegas Ontañon (the building) is actually a converted caramel sweet factory which was bought in the 1980’s by the Perez family for the purpose of establishing their winery. This building is now used only for the ageing of wine in barrels, however they decided to surround the barrels with art and almost all of it by a single, local artist and friend, MiguelAngel Sainz (1955-2002).

The winery is filled with

different works of art and allegorical stained glass which recall the darkness and colours of medieval cathedrals, those same cathedrals which pilgrims along the route to Compostela – or “Campus Stellae” – were able to visit.

Bodegas Ontañon is a family winery which in little more than twenty years has placed its wines among the best and its bodega as a point of reference of Riojan culture – A very food friendly wine, ideal with spicy food, spanish chorizo, whole roast fish dishes, lasagne and its fruity freshness is perfect with matured sheep cheese.

It's a one-pan meal to boot!

With Luca Sifredi at the Limoncello Sardinian Restaurant, Wine Street, Sligo

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imoncello Sardinian Restaurant in Sligo is an atmospheric dining venue

that provides more than just a place to eat. All our Food is prepared using essentially Olive Oil & Italian Flour.

Our Sardinian Cuisine is strictly linked to the seasons and secrets that lie in the quality

and the simplicity of its dishes.

Everything is cooked and prepared fresh by order. Our Wines list is specialized in an extensive Italian wines and an exclusive Sardinian Wines list. Now Taking booking for Christmas and new Year Festivities.

You can contact us at 0719110088 Ingredients Serves : 2 150g fresh spinach 2 (150g) fillets seabass 10 cherry tomatoes, halved 120ml vegetable stock 2 tablespoons minced fresh dill 1/4 teaspoon garlic granules 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 /4 of garlic salt and ground black pepper to taste 2 lemon/lime slices 1 tablespoon of butter

Method 1.Preheat oven to 200 C / Gas 5 2.Layer the spinach in the bottom of a 2 litre baking dish.

Lay the sea-bass over the spinach. Scatter the cherry tomatoes around the fish. Pour the stock into the dish. Season the fillets with the dill, garlic,lemon juice, salt and pepper. Place the lemon/lime

on the fish.

Cover the entire dish with aluminum foil.

3.Bake in preheated oven until the fish flakes easily, 20 to 25 minutes.

To make it a healthier dairy free dish, drizzle a bit of olive oil over the fish instead of using the butter.

Page 29 Mature Living November 2013

Petcare

Great Christmas gifts ideas for your dog Don’t forget your furry family member this Christmas! They work hard all year…barking, sleeping, eating, begging, running through the house, annoying the mailman and giving you unconditional love! Just think for a minute of all the joy your precious pooch brings to your life. Now, that I’ve got you in the mood…you can start shopping for a nice Christmas gift for them!

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he ISPCA encourages pet Parents/Guardians to understand the chewing habits and preferences of their individual dogs. When choosing an appropriate chew, they should avoid products that their pets can consume in significant pieces. Consumption of compressed dental or durable chews should be slow and deliberate. Parents/Guardians should not permit rapid consumption of any such product forms. Inappropriate rapid consumption may lead to intestinal obstruction and intestinal perforation requiring immediate life-saving veterinary intervention.

I have combined a list of great gift ideas to help you with your shopping!

child clip-on booster chairs.

Easy-slide straps let you adjust the height of the chair without tools. Two inner tether straps connect to your pet's leash to keep him safely inside the chair.

Made of easy-clean 600 denier nylon with an inner, removable cushion for pet comfort.

Clip on high chair

This Gift Basket for Dogs is a fantastic way to spoil the dog in your life or their owner's with a fun and imaginative pet care package designed specifically for the dog lover. An adorable dog paw print gift box comes loaded with toys and treats.

Includes: Paw Prints Gift Box (measures 10x8x9); Doggie Shampoo; This Paw Print Plaster dog print kit; Doggie Ball; Doggie Chew Toy; Doggie washing mitt/ or brush; Paw print box filled with beef flavored dog bones.

The Clip-On High Chair is a great alternative to keeping your small pet in your lap, while still offering that eye-level boost that keeps him from being left out. Secure chair boosts up your small dog so he can join you when working at your desk, playing cards or family games, and even when dining at your table. Safely clips on to tables up to 2" thick using the same rubber-grip technology used in

Power Paws non-slip socks

Gift basket for dogs

smells or debris will be trapped inside, leaving your car, home and office clean and dry.

Machine washable and available in 10 colours.

Equafleece jumper From £15, www.equafleece.co.uk British designed and made, these soft Polartec fleece jumpers are 100 per cent water repellent, keeping your dog dry on wet walks. They also transform a wet dog into a dry dog within minutes. Pop a jumper onto your soggy doggy after a muddy walk and any

Approach pack

£16.99, ww.anythingdogz.co.uk These machine washable, light, breathable socks are made of elastic and cotton, providing comfortable non-slipcovering for dogs' feet. If you have an older dog who struggles to stand up on slippy floors, these could be the answer.Or indeed, if a dog of any age slips on the floors of your house, these may help.

more water indoors, drawing oxygen into the water and constantly breaking the surface tension, keeping water fresh tasting. A charcoal filter helps to remove bad tastes and odours from the water.

Orbee-Tuff strawberry toy £10.45, www.barkitty.co.uk Another toy to be stuffed with treats that are gradually released as the dog plays with it. This has a mint scent to appeal to your dog's sense of smell, making this juicy looking strawberry even more enticing.

Completely eco-friendly, the product is 100 per cent recyclable and easily rinses clean. At 8cm (3”) tall it is perfect to keep smaller dogs amused.

Dog Worker

Drinkwell pet fountain

£84.99, www.ruffwear.co.uk This is an "everyday dog backpack", allowing a dog to carry its own gear, including leashes, poo-bags, treats and drinking water. Sizes to fit Jack Russell's through Large Retrievers. Helps tire out energetic active dogs, mentally and physically. (Note: dogs must be trained to gradually familiarise to carrying a load, and should never carry more than 25- 30 per cent of their body weight).

£24.90, www.drinkwell.co.uk Many pets are fussy drinkers, preferring outdoor sources of questionable origin to their drinking bowl. An indoor fountain entices pets to drink

£25, www.nina-ottoson.com This is an innovative game for especially active and smart dogs. Treats are hidden underneath all the blocks, both those that slide and those that can be lifted, as well as in all compartments underneath a rotating disc. The dog has to spin the disc to the right position so that block after block is exposed and can be pulled out, revealing the treats.

For more great gift ideas for your Pets this Christmas, call into Pet Stop at Carraroe Retail Park, Sligo

Save MONEY, HASSLE and TIME with...

The Grooming Kennel

The Grooming Kennel has a Built in Shower for regular and stress free wash time in a familiar area. No Plumbing required, just plug, in pour in warm water and shower your dog with ease.

Warm, easy to clean and hygienic, the Grooming Kennel will enhance any garden while providing you with all of the above as the ultimate pet product.

The Grooming Kennel is FULLY ASSEMBLED and ready for use.

Call John Burke on 086 6035126 / View it online www.thegroomingkennel.com

Travel Technology

Best Electronic and Technology Gift Ideas for Christmas

Game-Changing New Electronic Devices for 2013...

If you're searching for that perfect technology gift that hits a home run with the gadget lover in your family, then hopefully I can help. I regularly stay up-to-date by reading reports or going to conventions where new inventions and technologies are showcased. With that being said there's only a handful of all the items I see at these conventions that are really, in my opinion, worth showcasing. Here's my short list of 8 useful new gadgets and technologies you should know about in 2013 1. Google Chromecast

When I think of devices that have made a big impact in 2013 one of the first ones that comes to mind is the Google Chromecast. This device allows you to stream video from your tablet, laptop, or smartphone on to your TV. In order to Function it connects to the same Wi-Fi network that your portable device is using.

Current Support for the Chromecast: Right now it supports Netflix, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV and Google Play Music, but Google has promised to continue updating it in the future with more features and support for more applications. It appears that Amazon Instant Video, HBO Go, and Hulu are still in the works. And while the device does support Android 2.3 and higher, iOS 6 and higher, Windows 7 and higher, Mac OS 10.7 and higher, and Chrome OS it does not support Kindle, Windows Phone and Microsoft Surface RT. Potential Support for the Future:It looks like Pandora, HBO GO, Redbox, Hulu, Vevo, Vimeo, Songza, TWit.TV, and Plex are all hinting that they plan on supporting this device. In my opinion support for most of these will come quickly.

How it's powered: If you have HDMI v1.4 or higher, then it simply plugs into that HDMI port. For those who don't have HDMI V1.4 the Chromecast is powered by a USB connection.

2. Next Generation Consoles Xbox One Vs. PS4 The Wii U was a bit of a bust in 2012 because most were waiting for the release of the Xbox One from Microsoft and the PS4 from Sony.

It remains to be seen whether the PS4 or the Xbox One comes out

the big dog in the console space.

That being said Xbox One had a terrible showing at E3 because Microsoft initially said that it would require an internet connection and place limitations on how games could be rented, traded, and re-used.

After fan backlash Microsoft retracted that statement and has regained some of its initial buzz.

One thing is for sure and that is that the Xbox One and PS4 will sell in record numbers this Christmas. Some are estimating as much as twice as many as the previous generation consoles.

Release Date for Xbox One and PS4: We'll find out soon with the Playstation 4's release date coming up November 15th and Xbox One's on November 22 of 2013.

3. Fitbit Flex

Whether you're a fitness fanatic, trying to lose weight, or just want to manage your calories the Fitbit Flex will appeal to many.

This little device keeps track of steps, distance, calories burned and active minutes and displays LED lights throughout the day to show you how you're doing. One light lit means that you've reached about 20% of the goal you've set for the day on your customizable daily dashboard. At night it keeps track of how well you sleep.

Wireless Sync: The fit syncs to select Bluetooth

4.0 devices without doing any work. This includes support for Android and iOS devices.

built in camera, 2d to 3D conversion, 2 pairs of 3D eye wear, and much more.

4. New Tablets and Mobile Phones for 2013

7. Schlage Touchscreen Deadbolt

I think there will come a point in time when I feel that one year's cell phones and tablets don't feel significantly better than the previous years. I certainly haven't reached that point yet as some of this year's portable devices seem like a must-have upgrade for those who are on the go a lot.

This is especially true for *any devices which are able to incorporate Intel's new Haswell processors which provide a significant boost for both processing power and increase in battery life. *A good example of this would be Apple's new MacBook Air which now gives you 9 to 12 hours of battery life.

Notable upgrades for 2013 include Google's Nexus 7 FHD tablet as well as the Galaxy S4 and iPad Air. While I'm not sure that I'd upgrade to the S4 if I had the S3 I will tell you that it feels like a huge jump from the S2.

Other impressive devices have been released in 2013 which change the way we think about laptops and tablets and really at some level join everything together. Razer's Edge Pro Tablet is ideal for applications and PC gaming while a hybrid tablet like Asus' AiO allows you to transition from Desktop to Tablet and back again.

5. The Nest Learning Thermostat In 2013 it's time to have a smarter thermostat to go along with all of our other devices. While you could program your thermostat to certain temperatures each day, there are just a few people who truly do so. This is especially true when you consider how many people actually pause to adjust their thermostat each time they leave the house.

With this thermostat it keeps track of your habits, learns, and then eventually reacts to how you would during the day.

It syncs to your Wi-Fi so you can control it from your portable device. That way you easily adjust it form any room in your house.

Nest Saves You Money While You're Away:In addition, it has a Auto-Away feature which saves you money by going to an energysaving temperature while you're away.Considering that up to half of your energy bill each month is controlled through your furnace or AC, it's quite an upgrade.

6. Panasonic TC-P65VT60 Perhaps the Best Plasma Picture Yet

We all love watching movies and TV at night. Overall I've been happy with my couple year old LED TV, until now. Having seen the Panasonic TC-P65VT60 I simply couldn't be more amazed. Don't just take my word for it as CNET recently named it the "bestperforming TV they've ever seen".

Viera plasma TVs were designed to give you the deepest blacks available on any screen. This works well even when the lights are off.

In addition to all of this the Viera TC-P65VT60 also has a ton of features including Viera link, connect, E-help, Social networking TV and Skype, Voice guidance and interaction, Electronic Touch pen capability, a

In addition to making your home smarter with the Nest thermostat you should also consider adding a great device like the Schlage touchscreen Deadbolt to your home. It makes it easier when trying to enter and can be connected to Nexia home intelligence for a monthly fee.

Unfortunately, Not Compatible with Z-wave:While I personally like Schlage's new touchscreen deadbolt, some of you may prefer a Z-wave compatible touchscreen deadbolt. If that's the case, then I highly recommend the Yale YRD220-ZW-619. It's a bit more pricey upfront, but you'll most likely be able to avoid any fees.

8. Epson 5020UBe 3D Projector Home projectors have been around for a long time. That being said the picture quality you'd get for the money you'd spend, in my opinion, had been somewhat lacking until the last couple of years.

Some of the reason for this is that basic home projectors simply could not provide good dark-room images. In addition black colors had previously left much to be desired for the money.

Enter the Epson 5020. With this projector you get most of the picture quality you get on higherend models for a much more affordable price. In addition it produces a great dark room picture, something which ,as I mentioned, had been missing in the past.

Page 31 Mature Living November 2013

Health

Coping With Excessive Sleepiness Sleep and Weight Gain - Will better sleep help you avoid extra pounds? hormone that tells you when to eat, and when you are sleepdeprived, you have more ghrelin.

Leptin is the hormone that tells you to stop eating, and when you are sleep deprived, you have less leptin.

More ghrelin plus less leptin equals weight gain.

You are eating more, plus your metabolism is slower when you are sleep-deprived.

So what can you do about sleep deprivation?

A lot. First, look at how much you sleep vs. how well you sleep.

“Some people such as new moms may only get to sleep for a fourhour stretch. And there are some people who get 7.5 hours of sleep that is poor quality because of pain or an underlying sleep disorder, and this has the same effect as if they got less sleep.

Trouble-shoot both with improved sleep hygiene, he says.

For starters, avoid any caffeine in the afternoon because it will keep you in the lighter stages of sleep -- which are associated with poor sleep -- at night. Exercise also helps improve sleep quality.

How soon before bed should you Could lack of sleep be causing you to gain weight?

Think about it: If you’re feeling sleepy at work, you may be tempted to reach for a cup of coffee (or several cups) and a doughnut for a quick shot of energy. Later you may skip the gym and pick up takeout on your way home to your family -- no time to cook. When you finally find yourself back in your bed, you are too wound up to sleep.

It’s a vicious cycle, and eventually this sleep deprivation can sabotage your waistline and your health.

It starts out innocently enough.

“When you have sleep deprivation and are running on low energy, you automatically go for a bag of crisps or other comfort foods,” saysSusan Zafarlotfi, PhD, clinical director of the Institute for Sleep and Wake Disorders at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey.

The immediate result? You may be able to fight off sleepiness.

The ultimate result? Unwanted pounds as poor food choices coupled with lack of exercise set the stage for obesity and further sleep loss. “Sleep debt is like credit card debt,” Zafarlotfi says.

“If you keep accumulating credit card debt, you will pay high interest rates or your account will be shut down until you pay it all off. If you accumulate too much sleep debt, your body will crash.”

Not getting enough sleep is

common -- even talked about with pride sometimes. We brag about an all-nighter, but we do pay a price for staying up late and getting up early.

Understanding the Sleep-Diet Connection The sleep-diet connection is regular fodder for diet books and magazine articles. Maybe you have even heard about the sleep diet, which suggests you can lose weight while you catch your ZZZs. And it’s true, sort of.

“It’s not so much that if you sleep, you will lose weight, but if you are sleep-deprived, meaning that you are not getting enough minutes of sleep or good quality sleep, your metabolism will not function properly,” explains Michael Breus, PhD, author of Beauty Sleepand the clinical director of the sleep division for Arrowhead Health in Glendale, Ariz. On average, we need about 7.5 hours of quality sleep per night, he says. “If you are getting this already, another half hour will not help you lose 10 pounds, but if you are a five-hour sleeper and start to sleep for seven hours a night, you will start dropping weight.”

Exactly how lack of sleep affects our ability to lose weight has a lot to do with our nightly hormones, explains Breus.

The two hormones that are key in this process are ghrelin and leptin. “Ghrelin is the ‘go’

Page 32 Mature Living November 2013

exercise? It depends -- everyone is different. It’s more important that you exercise than it is when you exercise. To be safe don’t exercise right before going to bed.

“But some people exercise better before bed and it doesn’t affect their sleep.

Watch what you eat before bedtime. Pizza and beer before bedtime is not a good idea.

Neither is eating a big meal close to bedtime. Recent studies suggests eating a few healthy snacks and then having a light meal -- like a bowl of cereal -- if you’re running close to bedtime.

Heavy, rich meals before bed can also increase risk of heartburn, which will certainly keep you up all night. What if you are getting enough hours of sleep but wake up and feel sleepy the next day?

“Talk to your doctor about seeing a sleep specialist. After conducting a thorough evaluation and sleep study, in which you are monitored while sleeping, the sleep specialist can help identify any underlying problem. Together you can develop a treatment plan so that you get more high-quality sleep -- and maybe even slim down.

Health

Depression in later life

A

djusting to becoming old and being old Most elderly people experience the same range of normal emotions, depending on circumstances and events, as they have done during other periods in their lives. Most elderly people are as satisfied with their lives as at any other age, and enjoy their retirement, their interests, their families and their friends.

Despite the increased likelihood of losing a loved one or of physical illness or disability, old age is not necessarily a time of sadness and depression. The majority of older people have the resources of a lifetime of experience to face, in a positive way, the various changes that occur at this stage of their lives. However, for some older people the challenges can be great, and tremendous strain is placed on their ability to cope effectively. As a result they experience increasing distress, anxiety, demoralisation and loneliness. In some cases, increased distress is the start of mental health problems in old age.

In other cases, it represents a time of increased suffering which, nonetheless, is finally dealt with constructively.

Various factors influence a person’s ability to cope with stress. These include: past experience and personality, the

meaning given to current problems, their way of dealing with previous stresses, resources available to the person – both their own, and the friendship, love and support from others. There are, however, stresses that have particular association with mental health problems among the elderly especially: • Widow(er)hood • Moving house, especially moving into a nursing home • Retirement • Ill health • Loss of independence Psychologists have studied the adjustments that older people must make such as facing death, finding meaning in life despite loss of role, status or health, and facing regrets and disappointments. They have highlighted how inner conflict in the face of these changes could set the scene for significant anxiety and depression. What is depression? Depression is a disabling illness and in some cases, if undetected and untreated, can result in suicide.

It is much different from the responses of grief and sorrow to the losses and changes in life, in that even the most basic everyday task is affected by a continuous and severe sadness.

Those who suffer from it report

that severe depression changes life completely. The symptoms of depression are: Feelings – of sadness and or anxiety Energy – lacking in energy Sleep – over or under sleeping Thinking – sluggishly or negatively Interest – lost, in food, sex, or daily events Value – not valuing oneself Aches – headaches, chest or other pains with no physical cause Living – seeing no point in living Depression affects behaviour, relationships, emotions, motivation, thinking, sleep and other bodily functions. The person who could mix well socially suddenly becomes isolated and keeps to themselves. Everything is too much trouble and personal appearance is neglected. The capacity for enjoyment is reduced or disappears altogether. Appetite can be affected, resulting in the individual not enjoying food anymore and so losing weight.

Often, sleep is disrupted and waking early in the morning may be made worse by the mood being at its lowest in the mornings. Severe depression reduces motivation and slows mind and body. Often it distorts thinking and even memories, leaving the person preoccupied with negative themes such as poor physical health, guilt, selfreproach and unworthiness.

Agitation and anxiety

sometimes complicate depression and may paralyse the person’s capacity to make decisions or manifest itself in constant seeking for comfort and reassurance. There may also be more tearfulness than usual. Mania is far less common than depression in older people and often occurs in persons with a long standing bipolar disorder.

If a person has experienced one or more manic episodes then they would be classified as having bipolar disorder rather than a pure depressive (unipolar) disorder. New episodes of mania in an older person may occur following a stroke.

The elation in older people may be characterised less by feelings of well being and more by irritability and agitation. If an individual has 4 or more of the symptoms of depression, for 2 weeks or more, they may be suffering from a depressive episode and should consult their doctor. Symptoms and signs of late life depression It is known that ageing may heighten some features of depression and suppress others. But overall it is important to stress the similarity of depression between various age groups.

Older people are often reluctant and embarrassed to describe psychological or emotional issues. Often a common feature of depression is complaints about memory difficulties that are distressing, and anxiety symptoms may dominate the clinical picture but are actually secondary to the depression. Relatives will often point to a lack of interest and motivation. Behavioural problems such as uncharacteristic hostility, frequent unexplained falls, irritability or increased alcohol use may also point to a depressive picture. Suicidal ideas should be probed, as older males have a particularly high rate of completed suicide often through indirect means, such as self-induced starvation or dehydration, or failure to take important medical drugs.

Causes of depression in later life There are factors in a person’s background that constitute a risk for depression and life events which often bring it about. Against these are factors which are protective, sometimes called buffers. These include psychosocial factors, such as social support and the security of a person’s surroundings. It is usually the

interplay of these that determines whether a person develops depressive disorder, rather than one particular factor. This is why some people develop depression in the absence of an adverse life event, and why in others a major life event does not lead to a depression.

It’s important to emphasise two points: Firstly, that depression in an older person after a serious life event, such as a bereavement, does not make the depression ‘understandable’ and therefore not worth treating.

Secondly, becoming old in itself does not necessarily lead to the development of a depressive disorder.

Networks of care Managing a depressive disorder in an older person is not simply a matter of selecting the right intervention from a range of medications and psychological treatments. Holistic care is important. Attempting to bring about a positive style of coping and adapting and good social support can aid recovery from depression. Integrating medical and social services into caring networks allows the whole range of needs of older people to be addressed. The support derived from such a network of relationships both formal and informal is invaluable in buffering the stresses of ageing.

There are numerous local and national organisations ranging from active retirement groups, to national campaigning and lobbying bodies such as Friends of the Elderly or Age Action, to information resource centresadvertising services as diverse as befriending schemes, respite breaks or welfare entitlements. The voluntary sector also fills the gap left by many statutory services, but making older people aware of, and encouraging them and their families to avail of these services is crucial.

If you’re looking for depression support options please call Aware National Office on tel.

01 661 7211 Age Action Ireland Ltd Tel: (01) 4756 989 Alone Tel: (01) 679 1032 Friends of the Elderly Tel: (01) 873 1855 Federation of Active Retirement Associations Tel/Fax: (01) 679 2142 Senior Help Line Tel/Fax: (046 95) 57766

Page 33 Mature Living November 2013

House and Home

The home improvement Tax Incentive, Budget 2014 M

inister Noonan announced in Budget 2014 that there will be a tax credit based incentive for home-owners wishing to carry out renovation/retrofit works to their home.

The scheme will be rolled out in 2014 and is widely welcomed by industry and home owners alike. The main points noted are: • The scheme will include works carried out from 1st January 2014 until 31st December 2015 • Home-owner rebate will be rewarded in the form of Tax Credits • Tax Credits will be paid over the following 2 years (if work is carried out in 2014, the rebate will apply for 2015 & 2016 tax years) • Some measures covered by the scheme include Extensions, Plastering, Window fitting and plumbing • The credit will be

calculated at a rate of 13.5% on all qualifying expenditure over €5,000 up to a maximum of €30,000 Northwest Express welcomes this new incentive. Reputable companies will now be more competitive against the ‘shadow economy’. To avail of the scheme, home owners must engage with tax compliant contractors. For a number of years, the rogue traders had the upper hand by having significantly lower overheads; insurance was not paid and tax returns were not adhered to. The Home Renovation Tax Incentive will help build a tax compliant industry through a registered payment scheme governed by Revenue Commissioners.

The Home Renovation Tax Incentive is a sensible incentive to

stimulate small building works below the value of €30,000. Home owners can now claim the vat back on home improvement works, which will leave legitimate contractors at a much more competitive standing and hopefully discourage illegal trading in the renovation & retrofit markets. Hopefully in 2015 we will see the introduction of the BEF, and the recently announced Home Renovation Tax Incentive is excellent preparation for this. Consumers will become familiar with the benefits of energy efficient home improvements not just with grant aid, but using tax & finance incentives to achieve energy efficient upgrades. This will help society as a whole, by continuously combatting the issue of carbon emissions and lowering household energy bills

MAC CONSTRUCTION

Strandhill, Co. Sligo • Tel: 071-9122830 • Mobile: 086-8987072 / 086-3987072

uPVC CONSERVATORIES, WINDOWS & DOORS

We Can Offer a Complex Building Package For:

Conservatories • Sun Rooms • Extensions • En Suites • Attic Conversions • Porches • Windows and Doors All trades covered, personal supervision, quality work, written guarantee.

For a Free Survey & Quote Call to our office: Top Road, Strandhill, Co. Sligo NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL! References available

EIRE ECOWISE

SEWAGE TREATMENT SYSTEMS

RAIN WATER HARVESTING SYSTEMS Save money on unnecessary water charges Ideal for Creches and Nursing Homes E.U. Certification Very Economical to Run and Low Maintenance Manufactured and Installed by Gerry Delaney Precast Concrete

Curragh West, Dunmore, Co. Galway

Tel: 086-2600182 or 094-9643870

GS CONTRACTS

gerrydelaneyprecast@live.ie

GORDON SHERLOCK

Specialists in tarmac & asphalt driveways Telephone: 071-91-30070 • Mob: 087-296987

Constructing Quality Buildings in the North West of Ireland

www.sligotarmac.com

Specialising in laying tarmacadam, asphalt and stone mastick asphalt.

From small household driveways to tennis courts, large industrial areas, farm roads, estates, car parks and more

• 25 years of experience in the Tarmacadam business • Free Advice and quotations • Fully insured

We are confident that our workmanship wil impress anyone, we can count on our past customers to verify our professionalism and attention to the finest detail.

• New House Builds Established in 1999, we have been operating primarily as a builder of high • Commercial Buildings quality homes for private clients.

• Direct Labour Works Whether it be new build, • Property Snag Maintanance Work extensions, renovations, attic conversions, sunrooms or • Extensions & Renovations conservatories, We endeavour to • Conservatories & Sun rooms ensure that neither quality or • Attic conversions design be compromised while at all times been very much aware of the • Insulation and Plant Hire clients time & budgetary requirements.

• Quantity Surveying

Mullagh, Dromahair, Co. Leitrim • Mob: 087-6349688 Tel: 071-9134659 • www.gmg-builder.ie

House and Homes

Water Problems?

Call Waterteck!

Gordon Sherlock Contracts for all your tarmac and asphalt driveway needs

O

W

ith over 25 years of experience in the tarmacadam business, specialising in laying tarmacadam, asphalt and stone mastick asphalt. Each job Gordon Sherlock undertakes is treated individually. They are happy to give advice and free quotations, and are fully insured for peace of mind All materials are purchased from quality approved suppliers. Gordon Sherlock Contracts are committed to providing high quality, reliable products and services to continually meet customer requirements. From small household driveways to tennis courts, large industrial areas,farm roads,estates,car parks.

They will ensure that your requirements are carried out to the highest possible standards and using the correct grades of materials tailored to your individual needs.

The emphasis is on quality with their dedicated team and the latest up to date machinery, Gordon Sherlock guarantees you the finest quality drive possible.

Services provided range from, site preparation, supplying and laying kerbing,, all drainage and associated site preparation work, including gravelling.

They are confident that their workmanship will impress anyone and can count on their past customers to verify the professionalism and attention to the finest detail.

• Water Analysis • Water Filtration • Water Softening • Well Drilling • Pump Supplied and Fitted • Rain Water Collection & Purification • Sewage Treatment Systems IN THE BUSINESS FOR OVER 25 YEARS

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

ne of the hardest challenges facing us today is how to be sure of the quality of our drinking water. While most of us are fortunate enough to be connected to a mains supply, many of us have to rely on other means of availing of quality drinking water, such as wells, rainwater harvesting etc.

Waterteck 2000 offer an extensive range of solutions for both households and businesses alike.

Having been in the water treatment business for over twenty five years, they have gained a wealth of experience in solving water problems for their customers.

They are fully equipped with their own in house laboratory, where they offer a full range of analysis.

This allows them to make a professional and informed decision on how best to tackle any problems with your water in order to provide you with the best solutions and value for money wherever possible. Waterteck 2000 is a very dynamic organisation and in the front of it is founder and owner Jodie McGowan, he has more than 25 years experience in the business. Waterteck are proud that their company is one of the major players in water treatment industry in Ireland (small companies sector).

The mission of Waterteck 2000 is to provide high quality, dependable, clean and drinking water at the lowest possible cost. Senior leadership experience and industry best practices helped derive the following core values and key concepts: High quality, dependable drinking water Customer service Operational Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness Accountability Qualified Leadership/Responsible Workforce Long-Term Cost Effectiveness Waterteck 2000 meets those needs building a strong market position in the Water Treatment applications, Wastewater Treatment Systems, Rainwater Harvesting, Well drilling and Lab Services.

Brick Fireplace Construction Drumany Beirne, Ballinamore, Co. Leitrim

Specialising in Brick Fireplaces & Decorative Brickwork We Can Build all types of Arches, Bullseyes, Herringbones, etc

Visit our website @www.brickfireplaces.ie Email: info@brickfireplaces.ie Phone: 087-9390504

BUILDING & GROUNDWORKS CONTRACTOR Available for all types of building and groundwork • Increase the value of your home • Full New Houses • Attic Conversions • Extensions • Renovations • Drylining • Insulation • Conservatories Homebond Registered - Insurance Work Done C2 Registered - SEAI Registered GROUNDWORK CONTRACTOR Available for all types of groundwork • Burial of pipes to prevent frost damage • Land Drainage for farmers / Forestery • Lawns and Kerbing • Muck Shifting All work fully insured and guaranteed

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL Excellent Rates & Experience Contact Tony 087-9670166 or 071-9128518 tsgormleyconstruction@gmail.com

For the complete service, from design to completetion, it only takes one company...

Declan Noone

Plant Hire and Groundworks Land Declaration & Drainage Flood Damage Repair

- Foundations - Landscaping - Fencing - Paving - Footpaths - Drainage

6 Tonne and 12 Tonne Digger Lawn Prep and Sites Cleaned Hedge Cutting with 6 Tonne Digger on Tracks with Flail and Saw Head, ideal for wet conditions

Telephone Declan: 087-9908752

We will beat any price on a like-for-like basis

Acorn Designs Ltd

OUR JANUARY SALE STARTS NOW And Avail of 13.5% VAT refund on all kitchens over €5000 (Terms and Conditions Apply)

10 YEAR WARRANTY ON ALL UNITS

Barcastle Retail Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo T: 094-9026100 E: info@symphonykitchens.ie www.symphonykitchens.ie

(Castlebar) Ltd

Cosgraves Garage Westport Road, Castlebar, Co.Mayo

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Suppliers Of Any New Car Make Or Model (141) Registration For January 2014

Electric Bike Sales & Hire Ideal Christmas Gift!

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Contact John Bradley On 087-1735417 To Make An Appointment

Please Mention This Advert To Receive A Special Token

Available on the Bike to Work Scheme

New Bicyle Showroom Now open For all sales & repars on both tradi!onal & electric bikes, at unit 8, Northwest Business Park, Colloney, Co. Sligo

www.buzzbikes.ie

Low Call: 1890 438 438 • E: info@buzzbikes.ie

NOVEMBER SPECIAL OFFERS 2010 Renault Clio 1.2 5DR..................................€8,500 2009 Audi A4 2.0TDI.......................................€12,500 2009 Peugeot 407 SL Extras...............................€8,500 2009 Hyundai Getz 1.1 5DR..............................€6,500 2008 Honda Civic 1.4........................................€7,500 2008 Nissan Primera 1.6 Petrol...........................€6,500 2008 Mercedes Sprinter DSL A/T.......................€4,500 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe Passenger (Engine Requires repairs)....................................€6,000 2008 VW Fox....................................................€4,500 2008 Seat Toledo 1.9TDI....................................€6,500 2008 Toyota Avensis D4D.................................€10,500 2008 Toyota Avensis 1.6 Strado.........................€7,500 2008 Ford Transit T260......................................€6,950 2008 Kia Sportage 2.0DSL Comm......................€4,950 2007 Nissan Almera Petrol.................................€4,500 2007 Opel Vectra 1.6........................................€4,950 2007 Ssangyong Kyron 2.0DSL Comm................€6,000 2007 Suburu Impresso 1.5..................................€5,500 2007 Suzuki 1.6 4WD........................................€6,000 2007 VW Transporter 1.9SWB...........................€4,950 2007 VW Golf TDI..............................................€7,500 2007 Nissan Pathfinder DSL 7 Seater...................€7,500 2007 Nissan Micra............................................€4,500 2007 Ford Transit 280........................................€5,000 2007 Renault Megane 1.4..................................€4,500 2006 Ford Mondeo 2.0DSL................................€4,500 2006 Honda Accord DSL Executive.....................€5,500 2006 Hyundai Trajet DSl 7 Seater (Engine Requires Repairs)...................................€3,500 2006 Nissan Pathfinder DSL Comm...................€4,500 2006 Nissan Almera Petrol.................................€3,500 2006 Mazda 3 1.4 H/B.....................................€4,500 2006 Mitsubishi pajero 2.5 DSl Sport..................€7,500 2006 Chrysler Cherokee 3.0 DSL Pass A/T..........€6,000 2006 Opel Zafari 1.6 7 seater............................€6,500 2006 Peugeot 307 106 DSL 7 Seater..................€6,500 2006 Peugeot 407 DSL......................................€4,950 2006 Renault Megane 1.4..................................€3,000 2006 Seat Cordoba 1.4.....................................€5,000 2006 Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL..............................€4,500 2006 VW Caddy DSL.........................................€5,500 2006 VW Passat TDI..........................................€6,500 2005 Citroen 2.0 DSL.........................................€3,950 2005 Hyundai Coupe 1.6 FX..............................€4,500 2005 Hyundai Touscan 20DSL Passenger............€5,000 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2DSL 7 Seater .............€7,500 2005 Ford Transit T260......................................€3,500 2005 Opel Zafari 1.6 7 Seater...........................€4,500 2005 Peugeot 206.............................................€3,950 2005 Peugeot 307 1.4.......................................€4,500 2005 Peugeot 407 DSL ......................................€4,500

2005 Renault Clio 1.2 5DR.................................€3,950 2005 Renault Grand Scenic ...............................€3,950 2005 Renault Laguna 1.8...................................€3,000 2005 Renault Scenic 1.9 DSL..............................€3,500 2005 Seat Alhambra 1.9DSL 7 Seater.................€4,500 2005 Ssangyong Rodius 2.5HDI 7 seater............€5,000 2005 Suburu Legacy 2.0TDI...............................€5,000 2005 Suzuki Jimmy............................................€4,000 2005 Toyota Avensis 1.6....................................€4,500 2005 Toyota Hiace Van......................................€3,500 2005 Toyota Corolla 1.4....................................€4,500 2005 VW LT 2.5 6 Seat Comm............................€5,500 2005 VW Transporter 2.5 TDI Pick Up................€5,000 2005 VW Golf ..................................................€5,000 2005 VW Passat TDI..........................................€4,950 2005 Opel Corsa Design....................................€3,950 2004 Audi A4 DI...............................................€4,500 2004 Citroen Picasso 1.6....................................€2,950 2004 Ford Fiesta 5Dr.........................................€2,000 2004 Ford Focus 1.4..........................................€2,500 2004 Ford Focus DSl..........................................€2,500 2004 Ford Mondeo 1.8Petrol.............................€2,000 2004 Hyundai Elantra 1.6 .................................€1,950 2004 Mercedes Vito 115 Van..............................€4,500 2004 MG ZR Rover 1.4......................................€2,000 2004 Mitsubishi Grandis 7 Seater A/T.................€3,000 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.3 Saloon......................€2,950 2004 Nissan Almera .........................................€2,000 2004 Opel Vectra 1.6........................................€2,950 2004 Peugeot 206 ............................................€3,000 2004 Peugeot 307 1.4DSL..................................€3,000 2004 Renault Clio 1.2 5Dr..................................€2,950 2004 Saab 9.3 DSl............................................€3,000 2004 Skoda Superb 1.9 DSL ( Extras ).................€3,000 2004 Toyota Avensis 2.0 DSl..............................€3,500 2004 VW Transporter 1.9 SWB..........................€4,500 2004 Volvo S40 1.9DSL.....................................€3,500 2004 VW Golf..................................................€4,000 2004 VW Passat TDI..........................................€3,500 2003 Audi A4 TDI..............................................€2,500 2003 BMW 318 Petrol........................................€2,500 2003 BMW 525 TDS..........................................€3,000 2003 Citroen Picasso 1.6...................................€2,000 2003 Citroen Picasso 2.0DSL..............................€2,000 2003 Fiat Punto .................................................€1,000 2003 Ford Focus DSL.........................................€2,000 2003 Ford Mondeo 2.0 DSL...............................€2,000 2003 Hyundai Trajet DSL 7 Seater......................€2,000 2003 Mazda 6 2.0 DSl......................................€2,500 2003 Ford Transit Connect .................................€2,500 2003 Nissan Almera .........................................€1,650 2003 Opel Vectra .............................................€2,000

2003 Opel Signum DSl Estate.............................€3,500 2003 Peugeot 307 DSl Van................................€3,000 2003 Renault Laguna 1.9 DSL.............................€2,500 2003 Saab 9 3 DSL............................................€2,000 2003 VW Passat TDI..........................................€2,950 2002 Audi A3 1.9TDI ( Extras)............................€2,950 2002 Citroen 2.0DSL..........................................€1,500 2002 Dodge Musso DSl.....................................€2,000 2002 Ford Focus 1.4..........................................€1,500 2002 Honda Accord 1.8.....................................€1,500 2002 Mazda Domino H/B A/T...........................€2,000 2002 Mazda 323 Saloon .................................€1,500 2002 Nissan Primera Petrol................................€1,000 2002 Nissan Tino Petrol......................................€1,500 2002 Ford Mondeo 1.8 Petrol.............................€1,500 2002 Seat Cordoba 1.4.....................................€1,350 2002 Toyota Corolla 1.4....................................€2,000 2001 Audi A4 1.9DSl.........................................€2,450 2001 BMW 316i................................................€2,000 2001 BMW 320 DSL..........................................€1,500 2001 Dodge Mitiz 1.0 5DR.................................€1,000 2001 Ford Focus 1.4...........................................€1,250 2001 Lexus RX30..............................................€1,500 2001 Opel Zafari 1.6 7 Seater............................€2,000 2001 Skoda 1.4 5DR..........................................€2,000 2000 BMW 316i................................................€1,500 2000 Citroen Saxo 1.0 A/T.................................€1,250 2000 Daihatsu Charade 1.0 5DR........................€1,000 2000 Ford Transit Bis 14 Seater ..........................€2,000 2000 Honda Integra 1.6.....................................€1,500 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5 DSL SWB..................€2,000 2000 Skoda 1.9 DSL..........................................€1,000 2000 Subaru Forester 2.0 .................................€2,000 2000 Suzuki Grand Vitara DSL...........................€2,000 2000 VW Caravelle DSl 9 Seater........................€2,500 2000 VW Sharan 1.9 DSl 7 Seater....................€1,500 1999 BMW 316 Coupe.......................................€1,500 1999 Chrysler Voyager 2.0................................€1,000 1999 Mercedes C180 DSl .................................€1,500 1999 Mitsubishi Colt ( Tested )............................€1,500 1999 Toyota Corolla 1.4.....................................€1,350 1999 Volvo V70 2.0...........................................€1,500 1995 Mercedes E300 DSL.................................€1,000 1994 Audi A80 TDI............................................€1,000

AL HAYES MOTORS LTD.

GALWAY RD., PORTUMNA, CO. GALWAY Tel: 090 9741390, 090 9742200 Tuam: 093 26411

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AL: 086/2449645 • DAMIEN: 087/2368841 • DEREK: 086/8119141 • NIALL: 087 /6385033 • ALAN: 087 /4153872

Break Away!

The Benefits of Staycationing!

S taycationing? The beautiful art of holidaying at home – or at least in the same country.

We have a wealth of destinations here in Ireland that are fascinating, terrific, exciting, breathtaking and beautiful – sometimes you miss the things that are right in front of you. From the following pointers, hopefully you will see how staycationing can both save you money and result in some fantastic breaks away.

Save Money and Avoid airport taxes and other travel fees.

Airlines, while great at getting you from A to B can really put pressure on your purse strings with their extra charges when it comes to holidaying abroad, not to mention the fact that you will probably have to buy food in the airport which in itself is financially crippling! Holiday-

ing at home means you just need a car or train (or even just a bike!).

Additionally you can feel extra smug because, unlike your jet-setting friends, your carbon footprint will be as minuscule as that of an ant wearing stilettos.

Holidaying in the UK can also save you a fortune on visas and time – it can all be done last minute and on a whim! Staycationing allows you to be spontaneous: plan your break away on a Friday afternoon and leave that evening!

Relax & get away !om it all with prices star"ing at just €27pps

Find Unique and Interesting Places to Stay Where can you stay on your staycation?

Well, there’s always hotels and B&B’s Even if it’s just for the weekend it’s a great way to end the working week winding down in a comfy hotel, experiencing something different.

Really affordable breakaways can be found in Mature Living or on various websites.

A Fantastic location for Walking, Cycling, Fishing, Golf and Relaxation, The West$or" Count%& Lodge Hotel is a unique hidden gem in the beautif'l West$or" count%&side. We offer excellent rates and packages all year round including Christ)as Day, visit our website, @ www.west$or"count%&lodge.ie to view the latest offers

Meet new people who could actually become your friends Let’s face it, you’re not going to stay in touch with that lovely waiter from that bar or the lady in the shop who sold you those overpriced sunglasses. Visiting somewhere iat home however means you have the chance to make friends all over the country – as the saying goes, ‘a stranger is just a friend you haven’t met yet’.

Westport Country Lodge, Aughagower, Co. Mayo, T: 098-56030 E: reception@westportcountrylodge.ie W: westportcountrylodge.ie

Gurteen, Co. Sligo

Looking for somewhere to go on your ou!ng?

We can provide your group with an enjoyable experience of tradi!onal music, song and dance with live music and refreshments.

The following is a sample programme: Tea/coffee, sandwiches/scones on arrival • A live music session with local musicians • A fun opportunity to prac!ce old !me dancing • Friendly instruc!on can be provided • A visit to the exhibi!on/archive area Musicians and singers from your group are welcome to join in

Should you decide to visit us, we will make every effort to ensure that your visit will be a memorable one.

Booking: John or Marie 071 9182599 Fee: €12 pp info@colemanirishmusic.com Open Mon-Sat, 10-6 all year round

Main Street, Newport, Co. Mayo • Tel:098-41524 Modern and tastefully decorated Guest House Accommodation comprises 8 rooms with en-suite facilities, T.V and WiFi. • Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner from 8am to 9pm • Bar Snacks available all day • Live music and entertainment every weekend • All Size parties and Budgets catered for Local Attractions Include: • The Great Western Greenway Package Available (Inc Bicycle hire, B&B, packed lunch and shuttle bus) • Walking and Cycling • Fishing and Sea Angling • Golfing and Children's Activities

In the Heart of Galway City

3 Nights Bed & Breakfast with 2 Dinners, Tea & Scones on Arrival, Day Tour to Connemara, incl 2 x Tickets to Kylemore Abbey.

From

€169pps*

* Sunday to Thursday.

Subject to availability

ns 3 mi to Walk Sq. Eyre ain & Tr on i Stat

Harbour Hotel, New Dock Road, Galway • T: 091-894800 E: stay@harbour.ie W: www.harbour.ie

Golden Escapes

Knock House Hotel Christmas is nearly here

D

o something different this Christmas and join us here at Knock House Hotel! Arrive to the warmest of welcomes, feel the festive atmosphere and relax.

During your break with us we cater to your every need , and it’s a lovely opportunity to make friends and mix with like- minded people during this joyous time of year.

Our Christmas breaks run from Monday 23rd December to Saturday 28th December and you can choose to stay for 2, 3, 4 or 5 day packages which includes: your accommodation, lovely festive food, fun, games, entertainment, present, a shopping day trip and much more.

Early booking is essential call Karen on 094 9388088 to request our Christmas brochure or to make a booking.

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

P

4 nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

€199 pp

5th Night B&B FREE

Offer Available Selected Dates Only – Call for Details

INCLUDES: Full complimentary daily and nightly entertainment program Transfers local Bus & Train Station Use of the leisure centre facilities

Escape to Breaffy House Resort to Relax, Unwind and Revive 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.

Visit the stunning Leitrim countryside 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.

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 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 offer for an

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

Golden Escapes

Go West for a Truly Relaxing Over 50’s 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 – Over 50s (where you get an extra night’s Dinner, Bed and Breakfast for FREE!), Golf, Walking, Bridge, Indoor Bowling and Wellness and their fabulous Christmas Programme.

As part of their Over 50s 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 in the AA Rosette Islands Restaurant. Groups and Individuals are welcome to join Hotel Westport’s Over 50s

Programme. Group Discounts apply. Hotel Westport organise Day tours too - Knock Shrine, Kylemore &/or Ballintubber Abbey, Foxford Woollen Mills, Achill Island, The Céidé Fields (at your own expense) and more tours are being added all the time like the Titanic Village and Hennigans Heritage Farm.

Alternatively, 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, reflexology, soothing facials, exotic hand and foot spa treatments, luxurious body peels and wraps. Games and entertainment are organised for the evenings too. You won’t want to go home!

The Hotel has 129 bedrooms with all the comforts of home.

The award-winning AA Rosette ‘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 the multi-award winning town where there is an excellent mix of shops.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 has direct pedestrian access through the grounds of Westport House and located on the Great Western

Greenway - 42km of uninterrupted walking and cycling taking in breathtaking scenery on the way, from Westport through Newport and Mulranny and onto Achill Island!

A warm, friendly welcome awaits you at Hotel Westport, “One of Ireland’s best loved Hotels”. Call Hotel Westport NOW to book your Holiday 00 353 98 25122.

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Page 43 Mature Living November 2013

WIN €50! WIN €50! WIN €50! WIN €50!

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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

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

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Services Directory

Irish Shamrock Trees

Whitethorn & Beech Hedging Trees and more

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

We pride ourselves on our truly friendly and efficient service.

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

North West Counselling SLIGO OIL SERVICES 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 • Supervisor available for counsellors Afternoon, evening and weekend appointments available

TERRYS STOVES SLIGO Buying a Stove???

Talk to Terry first • Free Survey Available • Solid Fuel Stoves • Gas Fires

PHONE: 087-2066910 / 071-9197925

www.terrysstoves.com terrysstoves@gmail.com

ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTRE "Our mission is to provide a dedicated centre of excellence delivering a quality client centred approach with compassion and dignity while respecting the values and beliefs of all our clients" Who can come to the Centre?

Anyone who is concerned about their own or someone else's alcohol, gambling or substance use. A doctor's referral is not necessary.

What does treatment envolve?

We offer a 4 week programme. Addiction is a life threatening condition which can be effectively treated through timely intervention. We know that although recovery is a difficult and complex process - change is achievable with the help of highly trained professional staff and with feedback from other recovering addicts, and those concerned about recovery.

Gulladoo Centre, Cornafest, Co. Leitrim

Tel: 049-4339605 Mob: 086-8638842 Email: info@gulladoocentre.com

Did you know that your boiler could be costing you extra money?

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

Did you know that even having 3mm deposit of soot on the inside of your boiler will increase oil (ref: OFTEC) costs by over 8%

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

Sligo Oil Services Professional OFTEC Boiler Service Can Save You Money

Helping people to recover

STONE WARNING!!! GIBLIN ...everlasting Upto 80% of Heat Generated by an Open Fire and almost 20% of Heat from your Central Hea!ng System escapes up an open Chimney!

Prevent this wastage!

085-1459-300

Choosing a memorial for a loved one is a very personal thing.

Quality • Experience • Service

GRANITE COUNTERS & FIREPLACES IN MARBLE, GRANITE ALSO AVAILABLE, CALL US TODAY FOR DETAILS

Church Street, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo Phone: James 087 9061833 • Brian 086 1957788

www.giblinstone.com

CHIMNEY REPAIRS IRELAND

• 20 year guarantee • 25 years experience • Relining and rebuilding • Smoke and soot problems solved • Free estimates • Free assistance with insurance claims

Tel : Office 1800 283067 / 087-7997671

www.chimneyrepairs.ie

We will optomise your Boiler for Maximum efficiency with reduced fuel costs, Carry out a full Carbon Monoxide audit to ensure Family Safety is a priority.

A New Oil Nozzle fitted and we supply you with a Full detailed printout (from the latest Anton Flue Gas Analysis equipment)

Addic!on Treatment Centre Foxford, Co. Mayo

Call in confidence: 094"9256888 Email: hopehouse#eircom.net www.hopehouse.ie

Rehabilitation Cent!e specialising in the t!eat"ent of alcohol, dr#gs, gambling and other dependencies.

Hope House... “where recover$ begins”

The Biggest & Best Value Fireplace Showrooms in Ireland

Save €€€s by calling to us • Fireplaces • Stoves • Gas • Oil • Solid Fuel • Electric • Granite Worktop Specialists

Sligo Road, Enniskillen.

Phone: 048 66 326 327

Feature Article Services Directory

Furniture recovering and restoration including covering of chairs, 3 piece suites, headboards, car seats and boat seats.

Hotel and Bar seating, Office furniture and other Contract / Commercial furniture.

Repair of sails, tents and other outdoor gear for sports and leisure.

We provide a service of Colour consultancy and Interior advice.

We retail upholstery fabrics and essentials.

Collection and delivery can be arranged at a small fee, depending on distance.

Boradruma, Snugboro, Castlebar • Tel: 094 9023532 / 086 8350608 Open Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm Visit us online at www.boradrumaupholstery.ie

Flat Roofs

Fixed For Good TX Upholstery Services, based in Carrick on Shannon, and Donegal ‘covers’ anything.

Domes!c, Industrial and commercial – you name it, we will cover it

FOR A FREE ROOF SURVEY WITHOUT OBLIGATION CALL 087-2698198 Low Cost No Joints Seamless No cracking No reflec!ve paint required Resists algae & moss Works on all old weathered roofs Permanently flexible over extreme temperatures Professionally applied Proven life of 30 years Fully Insured No Hot Works World’s No.1 Flat Roof Solution Now in Ireland Beirne Coa!ngs Ltd, Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim.

Our service include: • Suites of furniture • Repairs • Replacement of foam in cushions • Boost sea!ng • Headboards • Beanbags • Boats

Spray Foam Insulation

New & Existing Residential Commercial Industrial

Don’t delay; call 0749736719, mobile 086-4106433 for Sligo Donegal area’s…and 071-9622700, mobile 086-8361070 for Carrick on Shannon

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

Cavity Wall Insulation Attic Insulation Sound Proofing Drylining

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

Pay €500 Less for Cavity & Attic Insulation Pay up to €3850 less for External Insulation Just pay for the cost of the insulation job less the SEAI grant amount! www.superiorinsulations.ie

Superior Insulations, Charlestown, Co. Mayo

Lo Call: 1890 253 221

Services Directory

Aluminium & PVC Repairs To windows, doors and patio doors

Expert patio door repairs!

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

Suitable for: • People with limited mobility • People who have had hip surgery • People with back aches

Over 20 years experience servicing Irish windows and doors. Fully insured GLASS PARTS ETC REPLACED

The Ideal Christmas Gift

For details of your local stockist Phone Noel: 087-9896948

Brendan Gormley: 071-9183860 / 087-2562669

Matt McGowan

Tel: 071-91 46858 Mobile: 087-206 9031

Maintenance, Landscaping, Hedge Trimming, Decorating Also: Leylandii trees topped and trimmed, Gutter Cleaning, Power Washing & Removal of all Green Waste (Grass, Hedging, Trees etc) Specs. for Planning Permission for trees & landscaping Roof Cleaning, Supplier of Trees and Hedges, Decorative Pea Gravel, also supplied Hedges and Trees WEST OF IRELAND MAN 75 Living alone, 5’5” would like to hear fom lasy without ties.

Replies to Box number 1026 at the usual address.

SLIGO LADY 50 BUT LOOKS 10 YEARS YOUNGER Would like to meet nice, respectable, loving, genuine, honest man for fun and dancing and see what happens.

Replies with a box number 1023 at the usual address.

SHY SLIGO LADY lakes cinema, concerts and DVDS, Music etc. Would like to hear from a Gent 60+ with similar interests for a friendship maybe leading to a

Brighten up your home • Heat Resistant Tempered glass • Hygenic & Easy to clean • Painted Colour of your choice • Easily fitted over existing tiles Novemb e Special r Splashb : a ck Prices reduced b y 2 0%

"pride in our work"

Far Finisklin Road, Sligo

Tel: 071-91 61924

sales@sligoglass.com • www.sligoglass.com

relationship Replies with a box number 998 at the usual address.

SLIGO LADY SEEKING MALE Late 50’s, likes music, dancing, walking and travel. N/S, S/D, profrssional l;ady, loving, caring, and honest. Interested in friendship maybe leading to a relationship. Replies with a blank stamped envelope to Box number 1012 at the usual address.

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

FREE DATING* CLASSIFIED

Glass Splashback Centre

relationship. Replies with a blank stamped envelope to Box number 975 at the usual address.

SLIGO MAN WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM LADIES age 50 years onwards, my age is 55 years, friendship and romance.

Replies with a box number 1011 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.

GENTLEMAN, 50’S Many hobbies, gardening, cooking, walking, wildlife, swimming, would like to meet a kind, genuine, female for companionship and romance. Replies with a blank stamped envelope to Box number 1022 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

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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 November 2013

CASTLEBAR, CO. MAYO

Why choose a Hotel when you can have the Lux!r" of a Resor#

GOLDEN BREAKS â‚Ź199 4 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast On l y

+ 5th Night B&B FREE!

INCLUDES: Full complimentar" daily and nightly enter#ainment prog$am Transfers local Bus & Train Station Use of the leisure cent$e facilities

Se Dateslected -C Detailasll for

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