OM Magazine, Issue 93, October 2016 by OM Plymouth Magazine

Oracle Magazine 93 Oct â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;16

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Plymouth & South Hams Leading Lifestyle Magazine

Halloween Histories

Do you know why we carve pumpkins, where trick or treating comes from and why we bob for apples?

WFaImNily!

A o the Ticket tMarine l Nationaarium! Aqu

Greenfield Kitchens Welcome to a world of superior, made-to measure, quality kitchens

G P Service This award-winning appliance-repair company tells us about their success

Happy Halloween Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to welcome in Autumn, carve pumpkins and bob for apples

42 September Call OM 691007+ Beauty + www.omplymouthmagazine.co.uk Home + Pets 2016 + Leisure & Events +Plymouth Eating &01752 Drinking Law & Finance + Motoring

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www.omplymouthmagazine.co.uk Creative Director Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net

Editor's Note...

Editor Melissa Wylie melissa@oracle.uk.net

October means Autumn and Halloween! We’re pretty excited about it in the OM office, already working out what fancy dress we’ll pull out of the bag this year.

Accounts Emma-Jane Corry emma@oracle.uk.net

If you’re more interested in the traditions of Halloween (rather than panicking about a costume) have a read of our Halloween Histories feature on page 24 where we tell you why kids go trick or treating, why we bob for apples and about the tradition of pumpkin carving.

Sales Managers Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net Emily Trace emily@oracle.uk.net Graphic Design Melissa Wylie Tom Coles BA (Hons) tom@oracle.uk.net Abigail Norris Editorial Melissa Wylie Digital Abigail Norris Photography Tom Coles Pixabay.com Pexels.com Sister Magazine The Plympton Community Magazine www.plymptonmagazine.co.uk

October is a busy month - are you taking part in Stoptober? If you smoke and you’re keen to kick the habit, turn to page 30 for some advice and to read up on the annual campaign. If quitting seems too difficult, try it this month when thousands of others will be doing the same. One more thing to remember - the clocks go back this month! On Sunday 30th get ready to turn the time back one hour and enjoy that extra hour in bed. This means darker evenings, and eventually, darker mornings. We’ve written all about it on page 34. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for regular updates throughout the month, and tell us what you think of the magazine by filling in our reader response form on page 14. You could win a family ticket to the aquarium!

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Trade Mark and © Copyright Oracle Publications Ltd 2016. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written permission of the publisher. We have done our utmost to ensure that all the content is correct and accurate at the time of print, but we emphasise that Oracle Publications accepts no responsibility for any mistakes or omissions in this publication. All opinions expressed in the Plymouth Oracle magazine are that of the individual contributor and are not always shared by the publication.

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CONTENTS October 2016

Westcountry Tile and Bathroom

Marshall Motors

ReFurnish

10 13 15 16 18

NATIONWIDE

PRICE MAT

RANGEMASTER “EXPERT” CENT

Visit their showroom in time for their outstanding sale with up to 50%

ENJOY A SWIM FOR £

MOTs are just £20 at Marshall Motors, and they’re offering motorists a free safety check

Furniture and appliances at prices you can afford, with free collection of your items

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Why do we trick or treat, bob for apples and carve faces into pumpkins?

Your monthly round-up of everything going on in and around Plymouth

Stoptober

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BUSINESS PROFILE ..

This issue we caught up with Greenfield Kitchens owner Joe Grunleitner. As the surname suggests, Joe is .. originally from Germany - Nurnberg, Bavaria to be precise, but luckily for us Joe made the move to Plymouth many years ago where he now owns his own bespoke kitchen manufacturing and installation company, Greenfield Kitchens. Joe started his career in the high tech sector, however after changes in the local market in 2004, and after realising his true talents lay in his extraordinary craftsmanship and his attention to detail, he moved into the bespoke installation business. It wasn’t long before Joe realised that he could harness all of his talents and create something far greater, so after refining some of his ideas along with a grant and business plan, Joe managed to build a unique, high-quality kitchen and furniture company based right here in Plymouth. The name Greenfield means a lot to Joe. “My surname is Grünleitner – the first part of the name means ‘green’ and the second part means ‘rolling hills’. It’s better than my business being known as ‘German Joe’!” he laughs.

“

A unique, high-quality kitchen and furniture company in Plymouth

Joe made the move to England in 1997 while studying Microelectronics at university in Germany. At the time he was given the option of completing his Masters Degree abroad in the UK, so Joe jumped at the opportunity for adventure and moved to the UK to start work designing chips for mobile

phones and telecom applications with a company based in Plymouth. He’s always had a strong belief in a good, hard-work ethic, so it was no surprise when he was offered a position with the Plymouth based company towards the end of his studies. Joe continued working in his trained field, however in 2004, the company fell into disarray and staff redundancies became evident. “The entire sight had to be closed down, there were certainly other positions available to me but most of the jobs that suited my qualifications were on the M4 corridor between Bristol and London. I liked Plymouth so it was a clear decision for me when I decided that I definitely wanted to stay in Plymouth where I was happy! After looking at several options Joe realised that he was free to focus on anything he liked. He had always been very good with his hands and crafting skills and loved doing that type of work, so it was not long until he made the decision that he should work for himself. Despite Joe’s background in technology, he admits that he’s always loved DIY, learning most of what he knew while living in Germany. “Quite often in Germany you would rent a flat that would come with no carpets or kitchen,” said Joe, “so you would install your kitchen yourself, usually with friends. I had helped out so many people doing that and in turn learnt all those skills.”

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Being an engineer, Joe has been trained to think things through logically, to try to avoid any potential problems that may occur. If anything does happen he has the engineering mindset to figure out how to assess and solve any issues and how to avoid them in the future. “I found a government ran course to help setup small businesses and through this I managed to secure a government grant to get my business off the ground.” All of his work came via recommendation due to Joe’s incredible German craftsmanship and fine attention to detail. It’s been a successful few years for him with his business seeing rapid market growth as it has become firmly established in the local community, but Joe’s work life hasn’t

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Great Blue Hole, Belize

- GREENFIELD KITCHENS always been smooth sailing. Being selfemployed and starting up a company rarely goes without a few set-backs, and for Joe, it was his personal life that was affecting him. Joe explains, “Life isn’t smooth, my first born died 11 years ago and I went through a divorce a few years later which was another set-back, I nearly ended up bankrupt. Although being very stressful you have to focus on the future and I now have two beautiful children who mean the absolute world to me!”

Joe went on to explain, “Most of my customers come to me via recommendation which is how I started everything. Although it was very slow at first people are starting to recommend me so business is growing very fast.” If any potential, new customers ask to see examples of Joe’s work, he will take them along to the homes of previous customers, who are more than happy to show-off their kitchen or bathroom. Joe’s customers speak very highly of him, as they are constantly impressed by the time and effort he puts into every job. “The next step for me is bigger manufacturing machines, because my work is increasing. I’m investing in speed and efficiency, making it quicker to actually produce the kitchens. If a customer says, “I want it next week” I want to be able to say, “Yes, I can do that”.” He is constantly progressing and growing his company, regularly visiting exhibitions to learn more and to bring ideas back to his business. “The

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only way to learn is to ask questions, and if every day you learn something new, you will never cease to grow. The day I stop learning will be the day I retire.

“

Through all that Joe had been through, divorce and recession, it was his focus and sheer determination that has helped the launch of Greenfield Kitchens in 2013. It’s the high-quality products and excellent workmanship at a very reasonable price that now makes him stand out amongst his competitors. Joe explains, “Buying direct from me, the manufacturer, keeps the cost down for the customer. As it’s a growing business I am able to procure materials for a very good price, and as I don’t have a fleet of vans or a showroom I am able to pass any savings onto my customers.”

If every day you learn something new, you will never cease to grow

“I’m quite a driven person, and I always knew what I wanted in life. When I would like something I always find a way to achieve it. It’s key to believe in yourself, especially if you’re selling your own products. You’ve got to believe that you will succeed. It’s been three years since I started Greenfield Kitchens and I’m now back-to-back with work which shows that hard work pays off.” It seems that Greenfield Kitchens is the place to head to for anyone who wants time, care, craftsmanship and quality put into the work they have done in their home and we can honestly say that Joe Grünleitner is the man to do it!

www.greenfieldkitchens.co.uk Call: 01752 548648 / 07789 900445 Email: info@greenfieldkitchens.co.uk October 2016 11

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e are a family Funeral Directors based in Plymouth, serving the whole city, and we are dedicated to providing you with a personal, caring and affordable service.

We believe that every funeral is a unique tribute for the family and our aim is to allow you to say your farewells in the manner most appropriate to you and your loved one’s memory. Every funeral is and should be a unique celebration of a life, as well as a time to say goodbye. We ensure that the day passes with dignity and reflects your wishes and those of the person who has died. Choice is important and so we are happy to provide the most appropriate style of ceremony for you and your loved one, respecting your family’s faith and culture. We pride ourselves on our clear, transparent and honest approach to pricing. As such, we have designed six fully inclusive funeral services in addition to our bespoke price options.

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BUSINESS PROFILE We got chatting with Geoff and Carolyn, owners of GP Service, about their appliance-repair business and its success. This “proper husband-and-wife business” is now in its tenth year, and there is no end to the steady stream of coffee machines, vacuum cleaners and other appliances coming through their door. GP Service is owned and run by husband and wife team, Geoff and Carolyn from Woolwell, where they offer cost-effective appliance repairs. In the 10 years since the business started they have seen their work grow as they’ve been taken on as Authorised Service Agents by some huge, well-known brands. We visit their fully-equipped workshop, with coffee machines and vacuum cleaners dotted about. Their three young boys have already taken an interest in their parent’s occupation, playing with plastic tool sets and watching over repairs. GP Service is the definition of a family business.

“

GP Service is the definition of a family business

They’re Authorised Service Agents for brands including Kenwood, Delonghi, Magimix, Bissell, AEG, Zanussi, Electrolux and Amica, so when a product goes wrong, customers are directed straight to GP Service. Geoff and Carolyn have experience in repairing a whole range of appliances, including washing machines, cookers, food processors, vacuum cleaners and even GHD hair straighteners. Geoff

can also repair storage heaters, which many people expect only an electrician can do. Geoff is the face of the business, but he can’t praise Carolyn enough for the hard work she puts in every day while bringing up three children. He explains how, “Carolyn is a partner in the business and probably does more than me, if I’m honest!” The couple are also trusted by a major retailer to fix broken coffee machines, which arrive to GP Service from across the country. These are Carolyn’s specialty – she fixes between 80 and 100 of the machines every single month! This involves diagnosis, sourcing parts and repairing the damage, before getting the product back to the customer. With so many

homes now owning a coffee machine, their expertise is being called for more and more often. Geoff shows us a bean-to-cup machine he’s fixed recently, and tells us that it had cost around £600 new. The owner, reluctant to fork out for a new machine, was struggling to find someone who would fix it when he came across GP Service. Of course, Geoff and Carolyn spotted the problem, replaced the relevant parts, tested the machine, and now have it ready to send back to the customer. They’ve saved him a fortune and saved the environment from another wasted appliance. Geoff’s wealth of skill and knowledge comes from years of experience in the electronics industry. “When I was at college I got a qualification in electronic servicing which teaches fault finding, which is a bit like fixing a car. But we were the last year to do it and the last recognised City & Guilds qualification. They say if you learn the fault finding you can apply it to anything.

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- GP SERVICE “I started work in a Panasonic and Sony centre in 1995 where I was an audio engineer. I was 19 and had my own workshop, and worked on walkmans, radios, tape decks and CD players. I didn’t really enjoy it that much, but where I lived in Tavistock there was a local, electrical retailer. The man who owned it helped me out and asked me to work for him, and I was there for 3 years.”

From the very beginning of GP Service, Geoff and Carolyn knew that they needed a recognised, household appliance brand on-board to give them credibility. After a lot of phone calls with the National Service Manager at Electrolux, they struck a deal, and GP Service was given three local postcodes with the agreement that any required work would be carried out in the customer’s home.

In 2000, when Geoff was aged 22, a job came up in Yorkshire at Scottish Power. Although Geoff and Carolyn had already met by that point, he moved up the country to work in a big workshop in Leeds. He was soon offered a promotion and became a TV and audio-based troubleshooter, but this involved a lot of travelling. When the industry slowed down Geoff decided to move back home to Tavistock to move in with Carolyn, and he went back to work at the local shop.

Because of this, Geoff and Carolyn found it easier to spread the word about their business, and over the next few years they gained the interest of several more brands.

He realised that his skills and understanding of electronics was becoming rare, so using his knowledge, Geoff decided to set-up and run his own business.

“

He started to get itchy feet working back in the shop, and following a training course with Panasonic, he decided to leave the TV and audio trade. “TV got very complicated and expensive with plasmas, etc., so people would rather get rid and buy something new rather than spend the same amount of money fixing their TV.”

GP Service only charge a very low call out fee and pride themselves on being completely honest and upfront about their costs and services. Because Carolyn has learnt so much about the trade from her husband, she’s able to diagnose a lot of problems over the phone and is a friendly, reassuring voice for customers who call with enquiries.

What we do is our passion. It’s our way of life

“We’re quite happy to give advice over the phone rather than always come out. We’d sooner be helpful, and we do that over Facebook as well when questions are asked. Even if we don’t get the sale they will still remember us for another problem that might happen,” Geoff explains.

Great Blue Hole, Belize

Geoff will travel in his van to Ivybridge, Tavistock and across Plymouth to repair appliances, but work-life balance is important to him. “It’s more of a lifestyle our job. It’s second nature to us to put the boys to bed and sometimes, instead of watching TV, we fix the coffee machines and vacuums!” Geoff admits. The varied work-load means that Carolyn is able to work at home and look after their youngest son in the daytime, and Geoff always does the school run. After 10 years of hard work and building great customer relationships, GP Service has recently won an award. Geoff and Carolyn were nominated as Small Business of the Year in the Woolwell Business and Community Awards. They were voted for by the public who appreciate the couple’s can-do attitude. The certificate and glass trophy now stand proud in their home. “What we do is our passion, and it wouldn’t be me if I wasn’t walking around with a screwdriver in my pocket. It’s our way of life,” Geoff tells us, thoughtfully. It’s the genuine passion for the job which seems to have played such a huge part in the success of GP Service, which is so incredibly important to this family. Remember, when an appliance breaks at home, don’t throw it! Call GP Service to fix it.

Call Geoff and Carolyn on: 01752 696573 Email: gpservice@hotmail.co.uk Visit: www.gpservice.co.uk Please mention OM Magazine when responding to adverts

October 2016 17

Leisure & Events

A Fresh, Autumn Stroll The great outdoors might seem like it’s best saved for the warm, summer months, but nature has a lot to offer when the weather cools down. We’re lucky to be living in such a great location, surrounded by Dartmoor, Cornwall and the sea, and cool, crisp days in autumn and winter are a fantastic time to enjoy our environment. Most of the summer tourists have left, so we can enjoy a walk or a drive without bumping into caravans and large groups of excited children. Pack up a picnic and take some flasks of hot soup, but keep some change in your pocket to enjoy the local pubs and cafes you might find while exploring. October is a great month to head outdoors, usually having fairly mild temperatures, but in case you get the walking-bug, here are a few great strolls in the area to give you some inspiration.

Wembury & Stadiscombe This 7.5 mile circular route around Wembury and Bovisand, returns via footpaths and lanes inland starting and finishing at Wembury beach car park (National Trust fee to park). With marvellous views of the famous Mew Stone and the busy shipping lanes of Plymouth Sound, this walk allows for that ‘blow away the cobwebs’ feeling as well as the enjoyment of more sheltered walking away from the coast. 7.5 miles

across to Burgh Island and the Thurlestone Rocks off shore as the walk continues. This is an ideal winter walk. There are two places to have a break for a pub lunch, either at the Sloop Inn in Bantham near the start and finish of the walk or you can pop into the The Village Inn at Thurlestone, or go to both of course! 3.8 miles

Tregantle

Dartmouth Town Trail This one is for the whole family. It’s a short walk of 1.2 miles taking in the town’s historical delights where you won’t get blown along too badly thanks to the shelter away from the coast itself. There are lots of places to stop for a hot cup of cocoa or a Sunday lunch treat for you and the children to enjoy. Start and finish at the Higher Ferry car park. 1.2 miles

Bantham to Thurlestone A beautiful circular walk from Bantham’s main car park for 3.8 miles. It’s a relatively moderate walk with estuary mouth views

18 October 2016

the past alive, and there are plenty of places for a delicious meal at the Yard when you’ve finished your walk. 3.7 miles

Sutton Harbour to Royal William Yard Don’t forget about the beauty we have on our doorstep, right here in Plymouth. Starting from the Harbour Car Park at Sutton Harbour, follow The Sutton Harbour Heritage Trail around the harbour to the historic Barbican. This easy walk then passes the Hoe with its great views across Plymouth Sound through to the magnificent Royal William Yard. All along the route are artworks which help to bring

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A long loop with an optional shortcut (when the MoD practice range is not in use), taking in the best of Cornwall’s ‘forgotten corner’. Features along the way include a tiny medieval market borough with stone crosses and a haunted coaching inn, and one of the ring of ‘Palmerston follies’ built to defend Plymouth during the Napoleonic Wars. Travelling high above Whitsand Bay, the footpaths follow ancient routes and medieval green lanes inland through woodland and heathland, past wetlands full of wildlife. 6.5 miles Visit: www.southwestcoastpath.co.uk

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ENJOY A SWIM FOR £1 Other Facilities Include: * Family Changing * Astro Pitches * Fitness Suite * Sports Halls * Gymnasium

Present the voucher below to reception before 06/11/16 and enjoy a swim for just £1

OM MAGAZINE £1 SWIM VOUCHER To claim this oﬀer just present this voucher to sports centre reception before 06/11/16 We are open Monday to Friday 7am to 10pm and weekends 9am to 5pm however swimming times do vary so please check our timetable by calling 636876 or on our website. One £1 swim per voucher Normal Sports Centre terms and conditions apply and a copy of these are available on request or can be viewed on our website. POOL ADMISSION POLICY: All non swimming children must have an adult with them at all times (we class a non swimmer as someone who cannot swim 25m) Under 8's one adult in the water to two children. Over 8's who can swim must have an adult on the premises that can be contacted at all times and over 14's who can swim, can swim unaccompanied. Swimming sessions are for individuals, couples and families only. Groups should contact the sports centre about their requirements before visiting, 1 voucher for 1 £1 swim and only 1 voucher can be used per person during the promotional period.

01752 636876 sportsreception@marjon.ac.uk

Early Years Join our BRAND NEW pre-school club for 0-4 year olds - FOR FREE! fantastic benefits include: • Midweek prices at weekends for 0-4 year olds • Free visit for your child’s birthday • 10% off cafe purchases • 20% off childrens parties

£10 Afterschool Party! Is your child celebrating a birthday or just wanting to enjoy some fun with their friends? Enjoy our Afterschool Party, Monday - Friday term time for £10 per child! Even better the birthday child goes completely FREE!

For more information, please give us a call on

01752 782415 or visit our website at www.123jump.co.uk Terms and Conditions: Applies to new bookings only and cannot be added retrospectively. Minimum Number of 8 paying children. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Applies to Afterschool Parties only and does not include weekend/Holiday Activity, Laser, Toddler, Teenage or Adult party events.

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@marjonsport marjon.ac.uk/marjon-sport

The Dementia Care Specialists

Specialist dementia care home with nursing Waypoints Plymouth is a welcoming home set in wonderful grounds with stunning views of the River Tamar. It has been purpose-built for the needs of people living with dementia, including bigger, beautifully decorated rooms, wider corridors and even a circular walk around the building to aid freedom of movement. At all our Waypoints homes, we help residents to feel as comfortable, happy and safe as possible, supporting them throughout the different stages of dementia.

Why not come and take a look around? To arrange a viewing please call 01752 360 450 (quoting ‘OM Plymouth’) www.waypoints-care.co.uk Waypoints Plymouth, Ernesettle Lane, St Budeaux, Plymouth PL5 2EY

October 2016 19

Leisure & Events

... u o y s g n i r B

THREE IN A ROW

et’s imagine you’re drying your hair in the bedroom; maybe you’re driving the kids to school or you might be outdoors working ‘on site’ somewhere. The radio is tuned in to Radio Plymouth in the background. Whilst ‘half listening’ you hear that an exciting competition is running where you could win a fabulous prize that you actually quite fancy winning yourself! How hard could it be? Then you talk yourself out of entering by thinking that so many people are bound to phone in you just won’t stand a chance! Later in the day you hear the cue to call again to enter the competition. You think ‘why not’ and give it a go, not really expecting in a thousand years to get through. Suddenly the radio presenter has answered your call and asks your name! Then he asks you three questions! You get them all right! How did that happen? You’re so nervous you can hardly hear yourself think! How did you answer correctly?! But you did, and you’re in the final for the big prize. That is the excitement of a radio competition. Some people just love entering competitions and getting on air at every opportunity whilst others play on the sidelines. Radio Plymouth are running a fantastic competition in October and November where the lucky winner will win an amazing all-inclusive holiday for two, ‘in association with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism, Doubletree by Hilton Marjan Island Resort and Spa and Have A Nice Stay Travel’, to the United Arab Emirates. Flights are included and a couple of exciting excursions are being added to the mix. You’ll be listening out for a particular song which will be different every time – the presenters will tell you what it is – and once you hear this you’ll call in hoping to get the chance to answer three questions in a row. If you are chosen, then comes the heart

20 October 2016

racing moment, but get the three questions right and you will have earnt yourself a much coveted boarding pass which gives you the chance to win the big prize. This part of the competition will run for approximately 2 months building up finalists towards the final event, where the holiday can be won by only one person. All finalists will be invited to this exciting event, where a mystery selection process will take place. One lucky winner will get the golden boarding pass for their holiday for two. They’ll be the ones flying off next June, for a week’s holiday that many of us can only dream of.

www.radioplymouth.com Find us on Facebook and Twitter! Tune into 106.7 FM

So listen out for Three in a Row on Radio Plymouth over the next two months and, who knows, you might be the listener who thinks ‘why not’ and phone in yourself! The rest is written in the stars over the Arabian desert!

Call OM Plymouth 01752 691007

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Call 01752 848668 www.china-fleet.co.uk

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October 2016 21

Leisure & Events

22 October 2016

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October 2016 23

HALLOWEEN HISTORIES It’s believed that Halloween began with the Celts, who lived over 2,000 years ago on the land that we now call Ireland, United Kingdom and France. They believed that the dead would return on 31st October, a date they called Samhain, and they would dress up, offer sacrifices and light bonfires to ward off spirits. During the eighth century, 1st November was named All Saints Day, to honour saints and martyrs, and the evening before became All Hallows’ Eve, and later, Halloween.

There are many different beliefs about the date which have formed over the years, with many cultures relating Halloween to marriage, and in some cases spirits would be celebrated rather than feared, as we traditionally believe today. We still celebrate the date, mainly as way of welcoming in Autumn, but it still holds onto its creepy history and traditions.

the jack'o'lantern It might seem that many of our Halloween traditions come from the States, but the Jack-o-Lantern actually originated in Ireland. The act of carving faces into vegetables is based on a myth about a man called Stingy Jack who made deals with the devil. The story begins with Jack and the Devil having a drink together, but after realising that he cannot pay, Jack asks the Devil to turn himself into a coin. Jack then pops this coin into his pocket next to a small

cross, preventing the Devil from turning back into himself. Eventually, Jack makes a deal to set him free but only if he will leave him alone for one year, and that if Jack dies, the Devil will not claim his soul.

The Devil sticks to his word and meets Jack again one year on. This time Jack sends him up a tree to pick some fruit, and while the Devil is high in the branches, Jack carves a cross into the tree to prevent him from climbing back down. After some time, Jack tells the Devil

that he will let him down only if he agrees not to bother him for another ten years. Eventually Jack dies, but because of the way he has lived his life, God will not let him into heaven, and the Devil, based on their agreement, refuses to take Jack’s soul to hell. Instead Jack is left to roam forever, and uses carved out vegetables lit with a candle to see his way. It’s traditional for households to make their own lanterns and leave them in the window to scare the spirit of Stingy Jack away. It was later taken to America with the migrants, where they found that pumpkins made a much more suitable lantern.

CREATE YOUR OWN Younger children might find it easier to draw or paint a pumpkin with a scary face, which can be drawn in pencil first to help them out. Don’t just stop at faces. Try carving out patterns, ghosts and witches, and be experimental with the equipment you use to create some unusual effects.

24 October 2016

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trick or treat In Celtic celebrations on 31st October, villagers would dress up to ward off spirits and would leave out treats to satisfy any unwelcome, phantom visitors. Soon, people would dress up as ghosts and wear other terrifying costumes, putting on an act in exchange for candy. This is trick or treating in its oldest form.

Skip ahead a few years, and 2nd November became All Souls Day in England. Poor people would visit the homes of the rich and ask that they pray for their deceased loved ones. Soon, children would start knocking on the doors of the wealthy asking for food and money. In Scotland and Ireland children would wear costumes and perform tricks on people’s doorsteps in exchange for a treat. This was known as guising. Many years later, immigrants arriving in America, particularly from Ireland, made Halloween popular and introduced the tradition of guising. Over time it became a rowdy activity and an opportunity for young people to create havoc, but sugar rationing during World War 2 put an end to it.

Trick or Treating became popular again, and continues to be to this day, and has been promoted over the years by the media and comic books. The industry is now booming, with sweet companies making a fortune in October each year, particularly in the US.

The only difference we really notice today is how Halloween continues to be a spooky time of year in the UK, as history dictates, while costumes are much less scary and a lot more colourful in the US.

GET INVOLVED Children should always be accompanied by a responsible adult while out trick or treating. Some people don’t welcome trick or treaters as much as others, but look out for houses decorated for Halloween. These people usually have all the treats! If you’re not happy about your kids knocking on stranger’s doors, dress them up, put them in the car and drive around to visit relatives. It will be a great, if slightly scary, surprise!

APPLE

BOBBING Apple-bobbing dates back to the Roman invasion of Britain. With them they bought the apple tree, and when an apple is sliced in half the seeds form a pentagram shape - this symbol was believed to be related to marriage. On 31st October young people would “bob” for apples which were floating in water and the first to get a bite onto one would be the next to marry. A variation of the game would be to hang the apples from a line using string.

Information from www.history.com

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October 2016 25

Halloween in Plymouth Plymouth is a rather creepy place all year round - think of the ancient buildings that still stand in the city and ooze history, and did you know that the gallows once stood near the busy bars on the Barbican? If you’re excited to celebrate the spooky occasion but you don’t have anything in the diary, check out our round-up of events and start preparing your costume!

FOR THE FAMILY FAMILY FRIGHT NIGHT

HALLOWEEN HUNT

Where: National Marine Aquarium When: Saturday 29th October

Where: Mount Edgcumbe When: Sunday 30th October

The Aquarium will be creaking open their cabin doors for an eerie night of tricks and treats. There will be a creepy array of activities for your family including; pumpkin carving, spooky stories and a truly frightening Fright Night Show!

Put on your most spooktacular costume and come and join in the Friends of Mount Edgcumbe scary event this Halloween. There will be a fancy dress competition for all ages young and old held at 2pm in front the house, followed by a scary scavenger hunt down through the woods. £2.50 to take part, registration from 12noon at the Belvedere room in the Barrow Centre. Prizes for the scariest costume.

Be transported around the Aquarium learning about all the sea-faring ghost stories, with fancy dress and facepainting also taking place.

HOWL-OWEEN AT GABLES FARM

Where: Gables Farm When: Saturday 29th October Gables Farm Dogs and Cats Home will be holding a Halloween event to raise funds for the animals in their care. There will be refreshments and lovely homemade cakes for sale. There will also be some spooky games for humans and dogs to play and a variety of stalls. Remember to visit their spooky cattery where the black cats will be taking centre stage! 11am - 3pm.

FOR THE ADULTS HALLOWEEN SOIREE

26 October 2016

MAD DOG MCREA

Where: Boringdon Hall When: Saturday 29th October

Where: The Hub When: Friday 28th October

Imposing stone towers, secret archways and curious arrow slits hint at the Boringdon Hall’s rich history and, for one evening only, they will become the backdrop for a devilishly delightful Halloween Soirée full of fiendishly good treats. Tickets £19.96 pp, which includes light canapes, a cocktail reception, ghost walk and music and dancing into the night. Arrive at 7pm in smart evening wear or fancy dress.

If you fancy a noisy night, get yourself to The Hub for a night with Mad Dog Mcrea. If you’ve been to one of their gigs before, then you’ll know to expect lots of dancing, singing and beersloshing as you jump around to their catchy gypsy jazz. Dress up in your finest pirate/fairy/gypsy attire and book your tickets early because it’s likely to sell out. This is their last Plymouth show of 2016! £12 in advance from See Tickets, doors at 8pm.

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what’s on plymouth? Your guide to what’s on in and around Plymouth

NIGHtRUN Explore the woodlands around Saltram House at nighttime, following a magical trail lit with lanterns and lights. There are two distances to choose from, and children and dogs are welcome to take part. Pre-event activites include face painting, pumpkin carving and marshmallow. Tickets range from £8 - £16.50, and participants recieve a goodybag and a glow-in-thedark medal. From 5pm - 8pm.

Saltram / 22nd October

WATERSKI & POWERBOAT RACE Competitors are coming to Plymouth from across the UK and Europe for thier final race of the season. From Friday 7th the boats will be arriving at the Mountbatten Centre, and the public are invited to view the powerful machines before they race. The results are sure to be close, with boats reaching in excess of 70mph.

Plymouth Sound / 8th - 9th October

AUTUMN FOOD FAYRE & TRAIL

GATHER, WITH GILL MELLER

BONFIRE NIGHT

Various, local food and drink traders will be selling their tasty delights, and Michelin Star chef, Peter Gorton, will be cooking up a storm using seasonal produce, demonstrating recipes which are cheap, easy and healthy for the family. Sponsors, Column Bakehouse, invite children to bring along a loaf of bread that they have made into a spooky halloween face.

Gill Meller is launching his new book, Gather, at River Cottage Canteen.Guests can enjoy listening to Gill talk about the inspiration behind his book which features an abundance of seasonal ingredients and then enjoy a delicious three course dinner based on the recipes designed by Gill. Call 01752 252702 for tickets.

As always, Plymouth Hoe will be hosting a bonfire and impressive firework display to mark Guy Fawkes Night. Food and drink and fairground rides will be open from 4pm, and entertainment will start at 6pm. Then at 7.30pm, as the night draws in, the bonfire will be lit, followed by the fireworks display at 8pm.

River Cottage Canteen / 20th October

Plymouth Hoe / 5th November

Frankfort Gate / 22nd October

DEVON V. CORNWALL GIN TASTING Spend a special evening with Cornish Tarquin’s Gin and Plymouth Gin at Le Vignoble. Entry is £25 per person and should be booked in advance, to include tasting and a talk from each producer starting at 7pm.

Le Vignoble, Royal William Yard 13th October

CARLTON BIG BAND The Carlton Big Band is a 12 piece band which plays swing, Latin, jazz and classic pop to suit all occasions.Tickets are just £7.00 in advance, or £8.00 on the door and can be purchased direct from the hotel on 01752 275850. From 12.30pm.

Duke of Cornwall Hotel 30th October

PLYMOUTH 10K If you’ve missed your opportunity to register as a participant, head out to line the route and cheer on the runners. Your encouragement will keep them going all the way to the finish line! The race starts on Princess Street at 8.30am. Visit www.runplymouth.co.uk for more information.

Plymouth City Centre / 9th October

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October 2016 27

Eating & Drinking Local Directory Pub Food

Bars & Cocktail Annabel’s Carpe Diem The Berkeley Bar & Grill The Dairy The Refectory Tigermilk

Vauxhall Street, Plymouth 50 North Hill, Plymouth 19 Princess St, Plymouth 25-27 Bretonside, Plymouth 60 South Street, Plymouth Millbay Road, Plymouth

01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752

260555 252942 228810 319067 828988 275858

Chinese Restaurants Buffet City China Wok Crystal Dragon Fortune Court Hakka Jasmin Restaurant Jasmine Chinese Ming Dynasty Noodle Lounge Seow’s The Hoe Cantonese The Wet Wok View Pan Asia Wah Tin

1 Derrys Cross, Plymouth Colebrook Inn, Plympton 10-11 Southside St, Plymouth 9 Tin Ln, Plymouth 13 South Street, Plymouth 3 Buckland Terrace, Yelverton 115 Fore Street, Kingsbridge 203 Billacombe Rd, Plymstock Top Floor, Southside St, Plymouth 1 Radford Park Rd, Plymstock 14 Athenaeum Street, Plymouth 75 Hoe Rd, Plymouth 80 Royal Parade, Plymouth 57-59 North Hill, Plymouth

01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01822 01548 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752

269888 338808 250288 668288 224777 852807 853395 492225 266677 657676 661895 664456 224223 660660

Fish & Seafood Restaurants Catch 22 Faringdon Fish Bar Kingfisher Oyster Shack Platters Rockfish The Samphire Bush The Seafood & Pasta Bar The Village Restaurant

6 Quay Road, Plymouth 58 Faringdon Road, Plymouth 6 Glen Road, Plympton Stakes Hill, Kingsbridge 12 The Barbican, Plymouth Sutton Harbour, Plymouth 36 Admiralty Street 10 Quay Road, Plymouth 32 Southside Street, Plymouth

07557 01752 01752 01548 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752

476530 221144 335567 810876 227262 255974 253247 260717 667688

French Restaurants Bistro 35 Chloe’s Le Bistrot Pierre

35 Church St, Ivybridge Princess Street, Plymouth Royal William Yard, Plymouth

01548 831273 01752 201523 01752 262318

Greek Restaurants Lanterns Meze Grill The Grecian Taverna The Leandra Zeus

88 Cornwall St, Plymouth Sutton Harbour, Plymouth 9 Market Avenue, Plymouth 19-21 Frankfort Gate, Plymouth 150 Cornwall Street, Plymouth

01752 01752 01752 01752 01752

665516 674633 266400 266176 661843

Indian Restaurants Cafe Indiya Ganges and Gurkha Himalayan Spice Mombay Brasserie Nibana Shapla Balti Cusine The Curry Corner The Eastern Eye The Spice Well

18 Church St, Stoke, Plymouth 36 Bretonside, Plymouth 31 New Street, Plymouth Penrose House, 4 Lockyers Quay 9 Morshead Rd, Crownhill 137 Ridgeway, Plymouth 1-3 Mutley Plain, Plymouth 57 Notte Street, Plymouth 18 Buckwell Street, Plymouth

01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752

565600 220907 252211 228281 787001 340555 604807 262948 226333

01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752

662143 676820 255579 266336 269900 661290 261120

Italian Restaurants Bella Italia Frankie & Benny’s Morgans Market Grill Pizza Express Positano Prezzo

30-33 Derrys Cross, Plymouth Barbican Leisure Park, Plymouth 19 Princess St, Plymouth 9 Market Avenue, Plymouth 16 Barbican Approach, Plymouth 36 Mayflower Street, Plymouth Royal William Yard, Plymouth

28 October 2016

Admiral MacBride Beefeater Rose and Crown The Bank The Britannia The Boringdon Arms The Burrator Inn The Chaddlewood The Elburton Inn The Fishermans Arms The Jack Rabbit The Miners The Royal Oak The Ship Inn The Ship

1 The Barbican, Plymouth 300 Plymouth Road, Plymouth Market Street, Yealmpton Old George St, Plymouth 1 Wolseley Road, Stoke, Plymouth Boringdon Rd, Plympton Dousland, Yelverton 100 Glen Road, Plympton 221 Elburton Road, Plymstock 31 Lambhay St, Plymouth 8-9 Howeston Road, Plymouth Hemerdon, Plympton Meavy, Yelverton Noss Mayo, South Devon Quay Road, Plymouth

01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01822 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01822 01752 01752

262054 600660 880223 660833 607596 402053 853121 331077 403213 268243 783585 336040 852944 872387 667604

Spanish Restaurants Lorenzo Maritimo Zuzimo

26 Derrys Cross, Plymouth Hoe Road, Plymouth 153 Vauxhall Street, Plymouth

01752 201522 01752 427133 01752 651300

Speciality Restaurants Arribas B-Bar Blues Bar & Grill Chiquito Ed’s Diner Fishbone Restaurant Heaven JDs Grill Koishii Las Iguanas Nandos River Cottage Samphire (V) Seco Lounge Shirley Valentine’s Sizzall The Dock The Mission The Stable Yo Sushi Yukisan Wagamama

56-58 Notte Street, The Barbican Barbican Theatre, Plymouth 8 The Parade, The Barbican Barbican Leisure Park, Plymouth 1 Charles Street, Plymouth 1 William Prance Rd, Crownhill 162 Exeter Street, Plymouth 17 Derrys Cross, Plymouth 101 Mayflower St, Plymouth Royal William Yard, Plymouth 15 Old Town Street, Plymouth Royal William Yard, Plymouth 111 Mayflower St, Plymouth 4 Royal William Rd, Plymouth 12 New Street, The Barbican 15 Derrys Cross, Plymouth King Point Marina, Brunel Way Sir John Hawkins Square, Plymouth Vauxhall Street, Plymouth 1 Charles Street, Plymouth 51 Notte Street, Plymouth Royal William Yard, Plymouth

01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752

603303 242021 257345 228342 226046 835793 223232 601605 222868 226609 664907 252702 263116 229375 669686 255201 253555 229955 228069 521410 250240 663200

01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01822 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752 01752

222214 604448 339113 668922 631000 500008 881555 862358 339562 852245 839228 229345 266600 225522 669162 257610 403888 661592 253555 880271 254254 672121 837363

Traditional Restaurants Barbican Steak House Barbican Kitchen Boringdon Park Grosvenor Casino Innfusion Restaurant Jolly Jacks Kitley House Langdon Court Lord Louis Moorland Garden Hotel Moorland Hotel Quay 33 The Dome Rock Salt Cafe & Brasserie Steak and Omelette The Artillery Tower The Bridge The China House The Dock The Foxhound Inn The Quayside The Treasury The Treby Arms

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61 Notte Street, Plymouth 60 Southside St, Plymouth 55 Plymbridge Rd, Plympton 15 Derrys Cross, Plymouth Jurys Inn, Exeter Street, Plymouth Mayflower Marina, Richmond Walk Kitley Estate, Yealmpton Down Thomas, Plymouth Glen Road, Plympton Yeoland Down, Yelverton Wotter, Shaugh Prior, Plymouth 33 Southside St, Plymouth The Hoe, Plymouth 31 Stonehouse St, Plymouth 116-118 Cornwall St, Plymouth Durnford Street, Plymouth Shaw Way, Mount Batten Sutton Harbour, Plymouth King Point Marina, Plymouth Kingsbridge Road, Brixton Quay Road, Plymouth Catherine St, Plymouth Sparkwell, Plympton

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Salsa Chicken & Cheese Tortillas Frugal cooking, but packed with flavour - use up leftovers from roast chicken with these easy Mexican-style snacks

Ingredients

Serves 2

• 4 tbsp hot salsa from a jar • 2 large flour tortillas, seeded or plain • 215g can kidney beans, drained and roughly mashed • 100g ground almonds • 1 spring onion, chopped • 50g leftover roast chicken, shredded • 85g grated mature cheddar • ½ a 20g pack coriander, leaves chopped (optional) • Oil, for brushing

Method 1. Spread 2 tbsp salsa onto each tortilla, then evenly top one of them with the beans, spring onion, chicken and cheddar. Scatter with coriander, if you have it. Sandwich with the other tortilla, then brush with oil.

Recipe from www.bbcgoodfood.com Image from www.bestfriendsforfrosting.com

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2. Heat a large non-stick frying pan, then cook the tortilla, oil-side down, for 4 mins. Carefully turn over with a palette knife (or by turning it out onto a plate, sliding it back into the pan), then cook for 2 mins on the other side until golden. Serve cut into wedges.

October 2016 29

STOP TOBER IS BACK! Stop for 28 days and you’re five times more likely to quit for good

Stoptober is back – it’s like October, but without the cigarettes. If you’ve tried quitting before but found it difficult, try again this month and you’ll be joining thousands of others as you collectively kick the habit. The addiction lies with nicotine, but just the act of smoking can be addictive. For example, you might always light up during your lunch break, or when you get home from work. Perhaps you always have a cigarette with a cup of tea, and when you crave one you find yourself wondering what to do with your hands.

Tobacco smoke contains over 5,000 chemicals, including tar and nicotine. Not only does quitting improve your health instantly, it’s also good for your wallet. A person who smokes 20-a-day will save around £275 a month, which is over £3,000 a year. If money is the primary reason pushing you to quit, then use the old, tried-and-tested method of

putting the money you’ve saved into a jar each week. You’ll soon have saved up enough for a holiday or a nice treat for you and the family.

If you stop smoking when you’re 30, you’re likely to live 10 years longer. Did you know, just 24 hours after having your last cigarette your lungs will already be working to clean out the debris left behind by tobacco smoke. After 48 hours you’ll notice that you can smell and taste better, and after 72 hours your energy levels will be on the rise. It really doesn’t take long to notice the difference. As the weeks, months and years pass smoke-free, your circulation will improve, your lung function will increase and you’ll massively reduce your risk of a heart attack and lung cancer.

E-cigarettes are a less harmful way to receive nicotine as you try to quit. The vapour doesn’t contain tar. 30 October 2016

Call OM Plymouth 01752 691007

The withdrawal symptoms often put smokers off quitting. You may feel irritable, have an increased appetite and struggle to concentrate. Keep in mind that all of this is temporary, and that the benefits of quitting far outweigh the difficult withdrawal process. Don’t go ‘cold turkey’ if the thought scares you. There’s plenty of support available online, from your doctor and at the pharmacy. Anyone you speak to will be pleased to hear that you’re trying to give up cigarettes. Try e-cigarettes and ‘vape’, gum or patches and see which works best for you. It’s never too late to quit. Have a great Stoptober!

Good luck!

Visit www.nhs.uk/smokefree for advice and support Facts and stats from the British Lung Foundation www.omplymouthmagazine.co.uk

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October 2016 31

Eating & Drinking

Can you ‘Wine Bluff’ From Chardonnay & Chablis to Riesling & Rioja, selecting & sampling wine in a restaurant can be mystifying. Rosalie Glendinning reveals how to bluff your way through!

et’s get one thing straight, wine is for everyone, gone are the days when wine was associated with golden pallated snobs expunging jargon. There should be one rule, if you like it drink it! However, if you fancy basking in compliments from dining companions through wine knowledge and a little bluffing, here are a few tips to ensure applause when dining out. Who’s the Boss ? Take control. As soon as the server arrives ask confidently for the wine list. This will give time for seemingly important examination whereas in reality you are searching for a wine roughly of the right colour and price! Top Tip: Pricey wines do not necessarily mean better wines, today you can obtain beautiful wines at affordable prices. Savvy Selection Almost every restaurant offers cheaper house wines, which are usually suitable for everyone. Don’t immediately go for the easy option, some restaurants provide well-written lists including producers, country of origin, vintage, tasting notes and helpful suggestions for food pairings. Ask your companions for their food selections and wine preferences. If white and red wines are suggested, consider a palatable compromise, such as a heavy white, like an oak-filled chardonnay or a lighter red such as a pinot noir. Top Tip: When pairing food with wine, typically white wines compliment lighter meals including fish and red wine goes with heavier meals including red meat.

Polite Presentation Now you have your selection, prepare for presentation. In some restaurants wine presentation occurs with such solemnity it can make you want to giggle. However, there is logic behind ceremony. After initial selection, the server will present you with the wine allowing you to check the label. The server will then pull the cork and give it to you, so you can check the wine is not flawed. Don’t sniff the cork simply inspect it, looking for good condition. Make sure the end hasn’t crumbled (an indication that it may have been stored improperly) and see that it is not dried out or cracked. When wines are flawed sometimes a bad cork is to blame, sometimes it’s a problem in winemaking or storage, just be confident and ask for another bottle! Top Tip: Wine is a natural agricultural product and can have flaws for a variety of reasons, if the wine has an unappealing smell that you don’t want to subject your nose to, then don’t put it in your mouth!

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Seeing is believing The server will now pour a small amount of wine into your glass and wait. Don’t ask him why he is being stingy, instead confidently lift and tilt the glass slightly, placing it against a white backdrop commending: “the red-brick colouration or the vibrant lemon tones,” for example. Your audience will be transfixed! Top Tip: Always hold a wine glass by the stem, not by the bowl, as this can affect the temperature of the wine, which can impair the taste. Be Nosey! Now bring your glass to your nose and take a huge sniff. If ‘the nose’ as it is called in the wine world is satisfactory, prepare to bestow your judgement. Think carefully, can you detect, raspberries, blueberries, chocolate, wood, or even tobacco? Coolly and confidently say something along the lines of: “What a floral wine complimented with gooseberry overtones.” Top Tip: Be confident in description and your dining companions will be quaking at the thought of taking a sip! A Question of Taste Now taste the wine, remember this is not about whether you like the wine it’s about its condition. If you are happy with it, tell your server so and he will pour the selection for the table. Top Tip: This entire process from label checking to tasting should only take about 30 seconds! Ask an Expert If you get to the stage where you don’t know what to select – Ask! Some restaurants have a resident wine sommelier, a trained authority on-hand to offer advice. If they don’t, ask to speak to the in-house specialist. Ask which wines are popular and partner well with dishes selected, if you are unsure how to pronounce the wine’s name, point to it or use the item number saying out loud: “I’m considering two or three wines here, what do you recommend?” They will hopefully understand your price range and give a great recommendation. And for Dessert Ordering wine should be as pleasurable as drinking it. A great wine can bring a new dimension to a dining experience. Keep these tips in mind when selecting wine in a restaurant and you will be well on your way to making an informed decision injected with a little wine bluffing.

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Law & Finance

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October 2016 33

Turning Back Time Remember! The clocks go back at 1am on Sunday 30th October

We know what you’re thinking - we’ve only just put them forward! But Winterlovers can rejoice as we turn the hands back and enjoy an extra hour in bed. For others though, encouraging the evenings to get darker isn’t such an exciting thought. Did you know? The longest day of the year (Summer Solstice) in June see’s 16 hours and 50 minutes of sunlight, while the shortest day (Winter Solstice) in December has only 7 hours and 40 minutes of light. It’s a huge difference, and sees many of us heading to work and leaving again in total darkness. The reasons for putting the clocks forward for the Summer make a lot of sense – we use less energy in our homes with the lighter, warmer evenings, the roads are safer for all users and pedestrians due to good visibility in the sunshine, and crime is reduced as the country is in the dark for less time at night, when more crimes take place. However, these reasons all become a problem when the clocks turn back again.

On the road Drivers need to be prepared for the darker mornings and evenings. You may not have noticed that you have a headlight out as you’ve not used them much, the same goes for brake lights, and roads which are usually fine and bright will be a lot darker with plenty of places for pedestrians and cyclists to be hidden.

Take it easy, particularly when a dark evening is accompanied by heavy rain, and leave yourself plenty of time to brake. New drivers who passed their test in the summer might also be nervous about driving regularly in the dark, so make sure that they feel safe and confident before getting behind the wheel.

In the office It can be worth investing in daylight bulbs in the office to keep the lighting as natural as possible, and heading outside for a walk at lunchtime can make a huge

difference to anyone who struggles without the sunshine.

On the school run Children need to be aware that they can’t always be seen by drivers when it’s dark. Dress them in brightly coloured coats with a bright bag so that they stand out when walking along the side of the road. They won’t be able to play out much in the evenings either, so invite their friends over for dinner instead so that they don’t miss out.

On the bike Most cyclists are already wary of the dangers on the road when it’s dark. High-vis clothing should be worn and good, working lights should be positioned on the front and back of the bike. Now is a good time for bicycle maintenance, to have it ready for the colder months, when rain and mist can accompany the darkness and be dangerous both at night and in the morning.

At home Keep curtains open in the day to keep your home as bright as possible. When the alarm goes off in the morning turn the lights on straight away to help you to wake up, or invest in a ‘sunrise’ simulator lamp if dark mornings are particularly difficult.

34 October 2016

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Law & Finance

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October 2016 35

Law & Finance

The 50 at 50 Principle. Equity Release, Cash Today or Jam Tomorrow? By Mike LeGassick

t is a fact that currently, UK homeowners have never had as much equity in their property as they have today. This is largely because of the property prices surge over recent years and the first rule of economics, supply and demand.

no guarantee, considerably more, say £150,000 in perhaps 30 years’ time?

Many people fall into the asset rich, cash poor category. Many people’s most valuable asset is their home and yet many live a hand to mouth existence because all of their cash is tied up in their property. Why do people buy a home to live in? Well, firstly we must go back to Maslow’s Law which dictates that we all need a roof over our heads as a basic need human requirement, but we could rent a property?

I would strongly suggest that the vast majority would bite your hand off and take the £50,000 today.

Since the Thatcher era, the UK has become obsessed with home ownership, but why buy a property rather than rent?

Another reason could be that you might not be around in 30 years’ time to benefit from the potentially higher offer.

If you aren’t going to use this valuable asset in some way shape or form in the future for your own benefit or someone else’s then why buy it in the first place? What do you intend to do with your property when you die? Leave it children, other family members or perhaps a charity which is close to your heart?

And another one for good measure would be what good is £150,000 to me when I am 80 years old?

Maybe you just don’t care what happens to it when you pass on. Or maybe you want to tap into the equity within your property to fund your golden years and do all of things you wanted to do, but until now could never afford. Maybe you want to help your children financially. So what is this 50 at 50 principle? Let’s imagine that you stopped 100 fifty year old people in the street and asked them the following question; Would you prefer £50,000 guaranteed in your bank account today or maybe, but

Which option do you think the majority of people would take? Which one would you take?

Why? Well, for most people aged 50, it can still be an expensive time of life. You might still have a mortgage or you could be funding university fees for your children.

Personally, I would put far more significant monetary value on having £50,000 at 50 years of age than £150,000 at age 80 for ordinary folk. In other words I can do a lot more with £50,000 at 50 than £150,000 at age 80. Remember that I said that the £150,000 could not be guaranteed? Well that is because under current legislation, if you need to go into care in your later years the local council are perfectly within their rights to means test you to see what assets you have at your disposal. If you have a property that you were hoping to pass onto to your children, it could be forcibly sold so that you can pay for your own care. At this stage and given these circumstances, this decision is entirely out of your hands and as such, bye, bye any legacy for your children to enjoy.

Now let me be quite clear that I am talking about a worst case scenario. The scenario in which the parents have always wanted the children to inherit their property, yet one predeceases the other, the survivor ends up in care, gets means tested by the local council and their property is sold to fund the long term care. And as a result, their wishes of their children inheriting a property worth a considerable amount never materialises. Are Equity Release Schemes a good or a bad thing? The pros are: • You receive a tax-free cash lump sum or instalments • No monthly repayments • You can spend the money however you like • You can stay in your home as long as you choose – for the remainder of your life The cons are: • You have to be aged 55 or more (applies to the younger of joint applicants) • Your property has to be in the UK and have and be in a good state of repair • The amount of any inheritance you leave will be reduced • Your entitlement to some means-tested benefits may be affected • Equity release is intended to be a lifetime financial commitment and not meant to be used as a short term solution. If you wish to repay the loan, early repayment charges may apply. • Any existing mortgage has to be fully repaid as a part of the exercise. • The scheme terminates upon death or entering care (2nd event for a couple).

Call Mike now at Manning & Company: 01752 837950 Email: mikel@manningandco.co.uk 36 October 2016

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Will Writing

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October 2016 37

DOCTOR STRANGE Starring: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Benedict Cumberbatch

guide

Your guide to the films hitting cinemas this month

When a car accident ends the career of the world’s top neurosurgeon, a chance encounter with a sorcerer opens the door to an alternative dimension, where he takes up a new role fighting the forces of evil.

Released: 28th October

INFERNO

JACK REACHER: NEVER GO BACK

Starring: Felicity Jones, Ben Foster, Tom Hanks

Starring: Cobie Smulders, Tom Cruise

After waking in a hospital in Italy suffering from amnesia, Robert Langdon must work together with Dr. Sienna Brooks to stop world-wide destruction. Follow them as they travel across Europe, following clues to discover the legendary ‘lever’ that will destroy half of the human population across Earth.

Jack Reacher returns to his old headquarters, only to find himself embroiled in accusations and assassination attempts. The woman who took over his job is sent to prison, and only Reacher can help her to escape. This is the latest instalment in the franchise, adapted from the best selling novels by Lee Child.

Released: 14th October

Released: 21st October

QUEEN OF KATWE

storks

Starring: David Oyelowo, Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine, Lupita Nyong’o

Starring: Andy Samberg, Kelsey Grammer

Phiona Mutesi is a girl from a small Ugandan village who has big dreams – and chess might be the ticket to achieving them. “Can you do big things from such a small place?” Phiona is afraid of the unknown, but with the support of friends and family, can she escape from her day-to-day life and discover something more?

A wild and revealing journey that could make more than one family whole and restore the storks’ true mission in the world. The storks now deliver packages for an internet giant, but when the baby -making machine is accidentally activated, the top delivery stork has to make an unexpected delivery.

Released: 21st October

Released: 14th October

38 October 2016

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Law & Finance

Rise in Over 50â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Divorce By Donna Hart, Director of Legal Services at TFLC

uch has been made in the news recently of the rise in over 50â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going through divorce. According to National Statistics divorce in this age category has risen whilst it has fallen across the rest of the population. Divorce is difficult in any age group but it can be particularly difficult for those over 50. Many people in this age bracket who come to see us for divorce may not have anticipated having to go through such a stressful event at this time of their lives. They may have lived in their home for a number of years and envisaged it continuing to be the family home for their adult children and grandchildren. There may be one party who has worked during the marriage and the other may be concerned about income and losing pension benefits. If suffering with ill health they may be concerned about the toll that divorce may take. There have been numerous articles stating the reasons as to why people over

50 now have the fastest growing rate of divorce in the UK, but whatever the reasons behind the separation, they too, like all people going through a divorce, will need support and looking after.

whom living alone in old age may be the norm because of the new rising divorce rate. This may place additional burdens on adult children who may also have a family of their own.

Some people have stated that it is very difficult when they have spent such a large part of their life with somebody only to be looking at living the last chapter of their life without them and starting all over again as a single person. This can be incredibly daunting.

Here at The Family Law Company we understand the emotional roller-coaster of a divorce and understand the wider issues that may be involved when divorcing at this age. We also understand people can find it daunting coming to see a solicitor, particularly to talk about such personal issues, and we can assure you that you will be treated with respect and dignity and in confidence.

Adult children may find divorce in their parents difficult to accept and become more involved in any potential disputes as they are likely to be concerned about their parent who has not wanted the marriage to end. Data released by marriage guidance experts, Relate, reveals that those born between 1946 and 1964 will be the first generation for

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October 2016 39

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Please see our website for all of our lovely animals looking for new homes

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Former Care Workers Assisting the Next Generation of Care Staff

ucked away in a cul-de-sac street just off Mannamead Road (Plymouth), sits a relatively-hidden gem. Established in 2003 by Chris Crocker, and recently assisted by city entrepreneur Donna Barnes, Next Generation Care are a care recruitment agency with a difference. Over their 13 year reign they have become beneficial partners for both care-professionals pursuing a career in the industry, as well as local care-providers keen to secure quality staff.

Meet The Team

The agency promotes a nurturing and consultative approach in the way they deal with their registered care professionals. They also offer a knowledgeable voice which amplifies a vast understanding for industry requirements and client demands.

Her personal insight into these demanding roles provides the agency with great guidance over candidate suitability. Not just that, but it also means that she is naturally able to engage and sympathise with carers seeking support after a particularly testing day.

So what separates Next Generation Care from the rest? • • • • •

Made up of a team with over 25 years’ experience in the industry. Provide candidates with in-house training on medicine and epilepsy. Requires a minimum of six-months experience working in care. Offer 24hr support, with all enquiries dealt with by the team themselves. No cancellation fees if client care-providers reconsider services.

The extra piece of magic? All of the Next Generation Care recruitment consultants are former carers themselves. Having former experience working within various care roles proves to be a key factor in the group’s impressive staff retention rate. Being able to relate to those long hours, challenging situations and the eagerness for career progression, allows Next Generation Care to connect with the professionals they meet and appreciate the work they do. On the flipside, this invaluable prior experience also plays a crucial part in forming prosperous relationships with the careproviders they recruit for. Having this first-hand knowledge allows for a deeper understanding of client needs and an awareness of the essential legislative guidelines that need to be adhered to.

Urgently required! We need you now. Are you a care worker looking for full time work? Full in-house training provided, including instruction on medicine and epilepsy. A minimum of six-months experience working in a care position. 24hr support with all enquiries dealt with by the Next Generation Care team.

Kim Vickers is a consultant for Next Generation Care. Previous to her role with the agency, Kim worked for 10 years supporting children and adults with learning difficulties, autism and challenging behaviour.

Kim really relates to the candidates she deals with and can clearly envisage where they’ll be placed and what they’ll be doing. As for the clients she works with, they get to lean on a wise and informed consultant who is very familiar with industry requirements. “I love and care about my job. There is a young lad with learning difficulties that we have helped to find a support worker for, he has rung the office a couple of times to express his thanks. It’s lovely feedback like this which puts a smile on my face and makes me realise how important our work is.” Samantha Weeks is another specialist recruitment consultant with years of experience working in the care industry. Samantha has six years’ experience working as a senior co-ordinator in a care home, so just like Kim, Sam is able to provide her customers with a truly relatable service. Sam shares a great understanding about what her client’s need and is able to recognise a good carer when she sees one. As one of the main consultants for the agency, it’s Sam’s job to source talented carers, so speaking with candidates and care-providers is a daily routine. Being a mum herself Sam understands how balancing working hours with parenthood can sometimes be difficult, so she always tries to remain receptive and accommodating to any personal circumstances her candidates may have. “Recently I had a candidate who seemed like the perfect fit for one of our positions but unfortunately transport was an issue. Knowing the circumstances, I drove out to meet them instead, had a coffee and discussed the opportunity in person. I feel remaining flexible to an individual’s circumstances is crucial for building a worthwhile relationship; I care about the candidates I meet and if it means securing them with their next career move, whilst also supplying my client with a talented carer, then I’ll always go the extra mile.”

WANT TO APPLY? Please visit www.nextgenuk.co.uk or call 01752 669990

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Find out more at www.nextgenuk.co.uk or call 01752 669990 October 2016 41

Tips & Tricks at the Supermarket How many times have you got the till at the supermarket and been surprised by how much you’ve spent? And how often do you leave with bags of shopping when all you needed was milk? The supermarket has plenty of tricks up its sleeve to entice you to spend more than you might intend to, and when you’re on a budget, this is bad news. Regularly bought items are usually placed towards the back of the store, so that customers popping in for a pint of milk have to walk past a lot of tempting products before they find the aisle they need. Eye-level products are usually the most profitable for the supermarket, but these often aren’t the best deal for you. Look on top and bottom shelves for better deals. Sometimes bold, colourful signage and tickets are used on products to make them look like they’re on sale, but they’re not. Check prices before picking up something you think is a bargain, because it could actually be full-price with clever labelling. If you buy luxury or branded goods, try the supermarket’s own-brand. Quite often the ingredients are very similar, or exactly the same, and you might not even be able to taste the difference. You can save a lot of money if you do this with your entire shop. Don’t shop on an empty stomach! You’ll find yourself loading up the trolley because everything you see will be tempting if you haven’t eaten for a few hours.

If you only need to pop in for one or two things, don’t grab a basket. They’re placed very conveniently, and sometimes you might even have a member of staff hand you one, but it will only encourage you to spend more than you intended. Beware of multi-buy deals. Sometimes it’s actually cheaper to buy the product separately. For example, a four-pack of tinned tomatoes could cost £2.50, but a single tin might only cost 60p. BOGOF deals are only a deal if it’s something you would usually buy. They’re also great for things like toothpaste and shower gel which don’t go out of date and are useful to have stock of at home. Otherwise, steer clear of them. Complementary products are often displayed together to encourage you to buy more. For example, you might find tubs of cream next to strawberries, and it’s no coincidence that teabags are situated near the biscuits. Check out the cost per kilogram on the shelf tickets when buying loose fruit and veg. You might think that buying loose is cheaper, but sometimes the opposite is true.

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