Hertfordshire issue 26 by John McGrath

EDITION 26

Retired JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

& living in Hertfordshire

Inside ...

MICHAEL ASPEL On how he stepped up to the mike

RICK STEIN

Shares his favourite dishes inspired by Flavours of the Med

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Graham Smith has a Twitter But is he right or wrong? Health and Safety and Hot Air! Reading the entire collection of Health and Safety rules which dictate our lives today would be a suitable prison sentence for murder. New ones are added daily by some overpaid barmpot in Whitehall and two I came across recently are worthy of mention. In the beautiful Bronte village of Haworth there is an annual event in June to celebrate the 1940s. Everyone and their granny descends on the village, some villagers have been known to move out for the weekend to avoid the crush, and many dress in period costume singing “We’ll Meet Again” increasingly loudly as the local brew takes effect. Until three years ago part of the spectacle was a fly past by retired World War Two aeroplanes, usually a Spitfire, a Hurricane or a Lancaster Bomber. Now these planes are still air worthy after seventy years but some clown in Bradford Council’s Health and Safety asylum decided there was a problem. The Spitfire won the Battle of Britain. Hitler and his army eventually chucked the towel in because they couldn’t down enough of the planes to win. It’s a good job Bradford Council wasn’t on his side or he’d have won. The organisers of the Forties Weekend had to conduct a Health and Safety and feasibility study and here was one of the questions:“What was the likelihood of one of the planes crashing onto the village during the ﬂypast?” Now we don’t see many Fokkers or Messerschmitts over Haworth these days and the Home Guard was disbanded some years ago. The only aerial threat we have is from rooks and the occasional duck with a dicky tummy, which might necessitate wearing a tin helmet on windy days. I think we had the greatest confidence that the pilots would have successfully cleared the village without a mass slaughter of the population, but, no, we couldn’t have a fly past.

10,000 people squeezed onto our tiny cobbled streets that weekend. Traffic management had a pink fit as the hordes parked their cars anywhere and everywhere. Hermann Goerring was spotted having a pint in The Fleece but we couldn’t have aeroplanes using the only empty space in the valley…the sky. Were all flights from Leeds-Bradford airport suspended for the day in case the lunch time Ireland plane crashed in Central Park? They were not. There was a famous wartime phrase which said, “Your country needs you”. I suggest the same does not apply to the Health and Safety nitwits of today.

There’s a hole in your bench Amazingly the same village got a double dose of daftness when the local council decided to recobble and landscape the bottom of Main Street. A lovely 12-month old wrought iron bench was removed to facilitate the work and it hasn’t come back. For years locals and visitors have enjoyed relaxing on the bench and no injuries have ever been reported apart from the odd drunk slipping off the edge and nearly falling under the Oakworth bus. The locals of yesteryear would have sat there and watched horses and carts go up and down the steep cobbled street posing some hazard if one set off at the gallop going downhill. But we can’t have the bench back because a health and safety executive decision said a child might get their finger stuck in the wrought iron! Oh, do me a favour. There are still stocks at the top of the street, what if someone gets trapped in them while having their picture taken? I’ve seen women in stiletto heels pirouetting like Margot Fonteyn trying to walk down the street and not get trapped in the cobbled setts. But we cannot have our bench back. In fact some half wit has now decided it is so dangerous that it is to be repainted and auctioned off. I suppose we can’t have a wooden on either in case a splinter develops and punctures some old dear’s derriere. www.retiredmagazines.co.uk

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CONTENTS

Inside this issue ... 12

10-11

8-9

22-23

20-21

18-19

14-15

37-38 TRAVEL & LEISURE 12

Cruise for the First Time Cruise advice for the perfect holiday.

14-15 Under The Tuscan Sun

FOOD & DRINK 20-21 Rick Stein Mediterranean Escapes Recipes

INTERVIEW 8-9

Michael Aspel On how he stepped up to the mike

HOME 5

Why Pay More! Visit Select Furniture - The Furniture Specialists

Dear Reader, Welcome to the latest local Retired magazine which we hope you will sit back and enjoy at your leisure. Our journalists Angela Kelly, Graham Smith and Sheila Alcock are continuing to keep you well informed with their celebrity interviews and up to date everyday tips. We know you will also be left with a smile on your face after reading Graham’s observations on life! If you know of an event which would benefit from free publicity please feel free to let us know and we can consider including it in our next issue.

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How Michael stepped up to the mike When the young Michael Aspel headed for Cardiff, his father thought it was to develop his career with a bedding company, but Michael had other ideas, as James Pringle discovered Who would expect a highly experienced broadcaster like Michael Aspel to be dogged by moments of doubt?

they were looking for continuity announcers at the BBC TV’s Lime Grove Studios. “There was just this one gigantic dinner suit between all of us. We wore whatever we liked below – it could be tennis shorts or whatever, because the picture never cut below the waist.

“For some years I was very cocky and full of myself, yet I’ve always been very nervous,” he tells Retired. “Luckily I was able to handle awkward situations, but you get less and less confident as you grow older.” Such feelings are not helped by television’s fondness for young faces, and Michael is now a wellpreserved 78. But when the 100 Years of Us series earlier this year highlighted changes in society during the first century of the National Census, he was “well qualified to be the front man, having been around for most of that time”. Indeed, for many of us, Michael has always been on the airwaves, but he was a teaboy for a London publisher before National Service in the King’s Royal Rifle Corps in the early 1950s. “When I came out of the Army, I wanted to be an actor,” he recalls. “My father was very sympathetic. He said: “Get a job or get out’. I took a job with a bedding firm that had contacts in Cardiff with a big store there. I went down there ostensibly to learn the bedding trade and the sales business, but that wasn’t my intention at all. I auditioned for radio drama at the BBC in Cardiff, and they gave me occasional work while I waited for a place to come up on the BBC drama repertory company. I did all sorts of jobs – including drainpipelayer and gardener – that I could drop at a moment’s notice when they required me for a freelance broadcast. I would rush straight from the building site and be in things like the Children’s Hour serial.

“That was a wonderfully happy time. It was quite different from Lime Grove or the later Television Centre – partly because it was news only and partly because it was such a historic place, where television began, and physically cut off from the rest of the BBC, and you could not get a better bunch of workmates.” Michael remembers a time he made news himself. “I went on one night with a black eye. I’d been playing in a charity cricket match the day before and got the ball in my eye. The response was incredible – it was even in the papers in France and America.”

Michael joins Lance England in the studio of community station Brooklands Radio

“I intended to pursue acting and in the mid-50s I was on the radio in London, but then someone told me 8

Lime Grove was the BBC TV’s main London base, but the news department was at Alexandra Palace. When Richard Baker was indisposed, Michael was drafted in to read one weekend’s bulletins and ended up staying for eight years.

Michael never did become an actor – except that “occasionally theatres let people from the telly do plays, to put bums on seats, and I’ve done a few”. He hosted Ask Aspel, Crackerjack, Aspel and Company, Miss World, Come Dancing, Give Us a Clue, The Six o’Clock Show, This is Your Life and Antiques Roadshow and his mellow tones were also heard on the radio.

On the Light Programme’s Family Favourites sound engineers were at the controls, but Michael learnt to self-operate a studio as part of the launch team of London commercial station Capital www.retiredmagazines.co.uk

I N T E RV I E W Radio. “When I did something for the BBC after that, they asked if I’d like to self-op and I said I would – but their controls worked the other way round and I said ‘Good morning’ and switched myself off. “Capital was exciting and I did things I never dreamt I would do. There was a brilliant young producer called Simon Booker and the station’s chairman was Richard Attenborough, who would get us tremendous guests with his contacts. “That kept going with the television chat show, although, to be honest, that was a great disappointment to me. It didn’t compare with the shows I did on Capital, because there were various restrictions and I wasn’t as confident. “At the radio station my researcher – a woman who had a PhD in mediaeval French – provided me with information on people and I would then prepare the interview. When I started the chat show on Thames, I found there was an agreement between representatives of the guest and our people as to what line the interview would take.” Who were the most difficult people to interview? “Actors like Elliott Gould – he was utterly impossible – and others just weren’t very good at it. “Tony Curtis was every interviewer’s gift most of the time, but occasionally he would lose interest and he did that on one of my shows. When I said: ‘Did this make you the happy man you are today?’ his reply was: “Who said I was happy?’ Then he said: ‘And with that, I bid you goodnight’ when we’d only had about three minutes. He walked off and we had to fill in.” Another live show guest was an inebriated Oliver Reed. “I wasn’t as horrified as I was reported to be,” Michael points out. Always at the back of your mind, in a situation like that, is that ‘This is good telly’. “The worst experience was the very last chat show we did. It was taken over by Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Bruce Willis, who’d put money into opening a restaurant in the West End. The whole thing became an advert for that and it was just ghastly. I lost control of it and felt very low by the end.”

Life, his laid-back style contrasted the anxious manner of his predecessor, Eamonn Andrews. “For a big burly man and an exboxer, he was amazingly sensitive and easily embarrassed,” says Michael. “When This Your Life and guests wandered from the point, I tried to laugh it off. But it was the most silly, unnatural arrangement. Someone would originally come in with a good anecdote and tell it to the researcher, who would type it out and give it back to the person as a script. “They would then try to learn it, and come stumbling on, trying to remember the script of their own story. That didn’t always work, so you would have to gently nudge them, hopefully without giving away the joke.” Michael lives near Weybridge, Surrey, with his partner Irene Clark. Retirement has never figured in his plans. He will be among the stars at this year’s Parkinson’s UK charity Christmas Concert at Central Hall, Westminster. Recent years have seen him guest hosting Have I Got News for You and making a documentary about his wartime evacuee experiences. He has taken to the stage in a Rocky Horror Show tour, as well as appearing in several pantomimes. “Because of some kind of imaginary gravitas that you bring to the stage, the thing works and you can still have the time of your life while being this old codger.”

Subscription Form To receive the next two issues of Retired Magazine hot off the press, either for yourself or to treat a friend, please fill in the form below and post with a cheque for £3.40 made payable to McGrath Media: Unit 6, Moses Gate Workshops, Manchester Road, Bolton BL3 2QG. Name:......................................................................... Address:..................................................................... .................................................................................... Postcode:.................................................................... Title: Retired & Living in............................................. .................................................................................... Issue Numbers:..........................................................

When Michael hosted Crackerjack and This is Your

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Keep active – keep healthy! Did you know that only around one in ten people in Hertfordshire aged over 65+ takes part in the recommended amount of sport/active recreation to benefit good health? About two-thirds (68%) of those aged 65+ in Hertfordshire take part in no activity at all, which is slightly better than the national average of 72.9%.

Nobody is too old to benefit from physical activity. The range of classes and activity sessions around the county are numerous and take place in a range of venues including sports and leisure centres, village halls and community centres. Class instructors should be fully qualified and have experience of working with older adults to ensure maximum benefits for health and well being.

Recent guidance from the Chief Medical Officer confirms that older adults who participate in any amount of physical activity gain some health benefits, including the maintenance of good physical and mental health. Some physical activity is better than none and more physical activity provides greater health benefits.

The benefits of being active include: • helping to maintain an active and alert mind • reducing the risk of heart disease • helping to maintain the ability to carry out daily living activities • improving mood and self‑confidence • reducing the risk of falls • increasing sociability when undertaken with other people Older adults should aim to be active every day, adding up to at least 150 minutes (2½ hours) a week of moderate intensity activity. A good way to approach this is to do thirty minutes activity on at least five days a week. For those who are already regularly physically active at moderate intensity, similar benefits can be achieved through 75 additional minutes of more vigorous intensity activity spread across the week or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity. It is also advised that older adults undertake physical activity to improve muscle strength on at least two days a week and that those older adults at risk of falls should incorporate physical activity to improve balance and co‑ordination on at least two days a week, every week. 10

Active Together Hertfordshire The Active Together project is a programme of physical activity and sporting opportunities across Hertfordshire with a particular focus on older people. The programme is designed to improve health and well-being, reduce health inequalities and increase the use of mainstream services by older people. Managed by Herts Sport Partnership the programme now offers more than thirty daytime classes across the county that include dance, keep fit, yoga, fellas fitness and multi activity classes. Classes are adapted to be suitable for all abilities. For more information about the programme ring the Herts Sports Partnership office on 01707 281004 or visit

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T R AV E L

Cruise For the First Time

Cruise holidays continue to be in great demand. An estimated 2m people will take a cruise holiday from the UK this year. If you're new to cruising, looking for cruise tips or cruise advice then read on. A cruise holiday is a unique way to escape from the rigours of everyday life and to explore many different destinations in one of the most relaxing ways imaginable. It offers you an extraordinary variety of activities and entertainment, plus an exceptional quality of dining. And of course, if you simply want to escape, there’s plenty of opportunity to do absolutely nothing at all.

wear; smart casual, semi-formal and formal, however it greatly depends on the cruise line you travel with, the dress codes are usually relative to the type of meal arrangements on board, for example NCL Cruises are Freestyle and have no formal evenings and provide buffet meals.

Is the port at the main destination? Usually yes, but in some countries the ships dock in alternative locations. In these cases, the itinerary lists the port in brackets alongside the destination, e.g Rome (from Civitavecchia). Shore excursions are offered from your ship to your destination, with public transport and taxis available for those wishing to explore independently.

Booking a cruise can be like ordering a salad in the States, lot's of choices to make, from dining time to bed configuration, to choice of table size. But by far the most important choice of all is getting the right ship and cruise for your requirements. When booking your first cruise the choices can be daunting and getting it wrong could lead to a disastrous holiday. Make sure you seek out a cruise professional for the best advice!

What type of people go on cruises? The great myth about cruise holidays is that it's just for the older generation. More and more families, couples singles are setting sail on ships that offer a holiday for everyone. Cruising appeals to a wide range of people so there’s a good mix of age groups, families, couples and singles on board. Once again the best advice from the outset is imperative. There are adult only ships, family orientated ships, different classes of ships and the size of ship can matter!

How much luggage can I take? On cruises sailing from and returning to Southampton you can take as many bags as you can fit into your cabin. On fly-cruises you’ll be restricted to the airline’s baggage allowance.

What do I wear? During the day casual wear is ideal with comfortable shoes for exploring ashore. Although cruising isn’t as formal as it once was, passengers still love to dress up in the evening. There are three types of evening

How long do I get at each port? Again this can vary by Cruise line and ship. However, in the majority of destinations you will be able to enjoy a full day ashore. Your ship will usually arrive between 7am and 10 am, departing between 4pm and 6.30pm. A cruise line such as Hurtigruten, operates as a working ship taking Norwegians from port to port thus spends less time at each port. However as the ships are smaller you get the best possible access and cruise to see the wonderful Norwegian Fjords.

Will I be sea sick? For those who haven't cruised before this seems to be the biggest single fear. The vast majority of those customers on their return state most of the time they couldn't even tell they were on a ship. Sea sickness is rare. The shear size of many of these ships makes them stable in all weather conditions. However if you are worried, you can buy tablets that will help. Additionally, ships also contain well-equipped Medical Centres staffed by qualified doctors and nurses 24 hours a day.

So what you waiting for set sail now!

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Bergen, Stavanger & the Fjords 3rd August 2012 - 8 Nights What’s included in your cruise

Included in the price of your Fred Olsen holiday is your cabin accommodation with en-suite facilities, TV, hairdryer, telephone, individual air conditioning, tea & coffee making facilities, cabin safe or safety deposit boxes. Also included Transport to and from Southampton All meals throughout the cruise Tea & Coffee facilities in cabin All entertainment Daily onboard activities Sports & Leisure facilities Welcome and farewell cocktail parties All port taxes and fees

Cruise highlights

The Bergen Aquarium has an astonishing collection of marine life, including seemingly every kind of fish While in Olden, take a fishing trip on the fjord with an experienced skipper aboard the 10m Isabella Gamle Stavanger – Old Stavanger – is a wonderfully preserved collection of over 170 wooden buildings from the late 18th century

*Cruise highlights include optional tours which are bookable from six weeks prior to departure

To book or for more information call or visit 01462 481707 www.cozytours.co.uk

Under the Tuscan Sun

trung along 18km of serrated cliffs between Levanto and La Spezia, the Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s treasures. These five higgledy-piggledy villages Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore are cut off by mountains, choked with olive groves and dry-stone-walled vineyards, where farmers have eked out a living over the centuries. The Cinque Terre became a Unesco World Heritage site in 1997, which includes a protected marine area, and became a national park (Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre) in 1999. Wine growers still use monorail mechanisms to ferry themselves up and the grapes down these unique lands, and in some cases have to harvest by boat as access is restricted. If the terraced hillsides are not worked, they will quite literally slide into the sea. National park status has spared the area from a propagation of tourism and the tacky souvenir stands that come with it and saved it from environmental destruction. Cars and motorbikes are not allowed in the villages, instead they are connected by train. In the villages, electric buses scale the sheer streets. Park authorities close walking paths when numbers become too great, so it s best to arrive in the cool and relative calm of the early morning.

EATING/DRINKING Grapevines and olive trees cover the hillsides, so wine and oil are a must on the restaurant tables. They prove excellent companions for the salted anchovies of Monterosso served in olive oil as well as the many specialty fish dishes and authentic gastronomic delights.

The cuisine of the Cinque Terre almost perfectly conserves the characteristics of yesteryear; the respect for the flavours and fragrances of the primary ingredients. Trofie is a kind of pasta made from chestnut or wheat flour, It’s condiment is still pesto sauce, an original Ligurian sauce made from basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, grated parmesan cheese and pine nuts. Torte di verdura - vegetable pies -are prepared with a stuffing containing parsley, marjoram, wild local herbs, artichokes, zucchini, potatoes and leeks, combined with egg and ricotta cheese or with stale bread soaked in milk or béchamel sauce and parmesan cheese. The pie crust is very thin, because flour was a very precious commodity. Torta di riso - rice pie - is a specialty of every Italian grandma in the region. Frittate - flat omelettes - are popular today as the ‘frittata’ has been rediscovered as a tasty antipasto. Another important dish on the tables of the Cinque Terre population was cotoletta di acciuga, anchovies stuffed with a breadcrumb based filling and then fried. The fritelle di bianchetti, fritters made from tiny newborn anchovies or sardines, were also highly appreciated. Following the seamen’s gastronomic traditions, other dishes included stewed cuttlefish, stuffed calamari and spiced octopus.

SLEEPING Numerous villagers have rooms to rent: look for signs reading camere (rooms) or affittacamere (rooms for rent). Accommodation booking offices in Riomaggiore are really helpful and can help you organise a room ahead of time. The town of Levanto is bigger and has a lot of accommodation including hotels, bed & breakfasts

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and even camping areas where you can rent a tent with two beds and linens for very low prices! Note: Breakfast in an Italian hotel or B&B will be some slices of bread and a croissant, butter, jam and coffee with orange juice if you are lucky. This is a typical Italian breakfast so if you can get a room without breakfast and head down to the nearest cafe where there is a larger choice.

GETTING AROUND Take the train to La Spezia and change onto the regional (“Regionale”) train that makes all the local stops in the Cinque Terre mostly through tunnels. All the Cinque Terre towns have their own train station. Almost all the trains from La Spezia stop in Levanto. The train represents the best way to visit all the villages of the Cinque Terre. Until the end of the 19th Century these towns were completely isolated and reachable just on foot or by sea. In 1860 (works ended in 1874) the first tunnel of this track was built connecting Genoa with La Spezia and crossing almost entirely all this territory through tunnels (32 tunnels were built here!). This means of transportation gives you the possibility to visit the villages in a discreet and easy way and as the train emerges from another tunnel you are treated to another stunning view of one of the best secrets in Italy.

DONT LEAVE WITHOUT The Cinque Terre boasts some of the best coastline hiking trails in the world. The path from Riomaggiore to Manarola is called the Via Dell’Amore - or Lovers Walk. The beautiful trail along the shore is very easy to hike. Along the way, you’ll witness where lovers have written their names on the rocks and trees surrounding the walk. In the middle of Riomaggiore and Manarola you will come across ‘The Lover’s Lock’ which is a place to seal your eternal love. At this point there is a concrete throne in the shape of a male and female locked in a kiss, where many people duplicate this creating a lovely photographic opportunity. The next hike from Manarola to Corniglia is also easy. However, there is an up hill hike and a large zigzag shaped staircase with 385 steps which can be quite a mission in the midday sun! The trail from Corniglia to Vernazza offers incredible views of shore and is only steep at certain places. The trail from Vernazza to Monterosso is the steepest (you need a reasonably good level of fitness - there is over 250m of climbing over very uneven rocks, totalling approx. 750 ‘steps’ - not easy!), winding through olive orchards and vineyards and offering dramatic ocean views. The paths are narrow, with a very real danger of falling 12 to 15 feet if you lose your footing. If you attempt this hike, take some water, and be prepared to build up a sweat.

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Monarola at Sunset

The walk between all the villages takes the better part of a day. For those that would rather not walk (or not walk the entire trail), a pedestrian ferry service runs seasonally to all five villages, plus Lerici. The price is reasonable, and gives a nice view of the villages from the water. The milk train that connect all the villages is also a quick way to hop among towns. It is advised that you attempt the walk as early as possible to avoid the hottest part of the day during the summer period. Sneakers or suitable walking shoes are essential. You must purchase a pass for the hike. It is also possible to purchase a hiking and train pass in one if you wish to catch a train to the next town. Hiking Times around the Cinque Terre: Monterosso - Vernazza: 90 minutes. Vernazza - Corniglia: 90 minutes. Corniglia - Manarola: 45 minutes. Manarola - Riomaggiore: 20 minutes. Manarola also has its own beautiful vineyard walk.

Language:

Italian and although English is spoken widely, the locals always appreciate your small efforts to communicate in their language. Currency: Euro (EUR) Time zone: GMT + 2

WARNER 4 NIGHT BREAKS 2012 Littlecote House Hotel - Berkshire - 30th January 2012 Deposit £50pp Full Board Winter Tea Dance

Pickups: Hatfield, Welwyn Garden City, Stevenage, Hitchin, Letchworth, Baldock, Royston, Biggleswade and Sandy Limited single rooms without supplements, other room upgrades available.

4 nights

£280 per person

Littlecote House in Berkshire, on the borders of the Cotswolds, is a superb Grade 1 listed 16th century Tudor mansion in a spectacular setting. Hosting Tudor monarchs, Civil War captains and Regency nobles and an occasional friendly ghost, it was here that Henry Vlll courted Jane Seymour. It has an awe-inspiring Great Hall, Dutch Parlour, Cromwellian chapel and spiral Jerusalem stairs leading to the troops’ quarters and Long Gallery. There is 113 acres of land, 40 of which are gardens which includes the Lime Tree Avenue and a spectacular topiaried yew avenue. There is also a unique Roman Orpheus mosaic and remains of the villa in its grounds.

Thoresby Hall Hotel and Spa - Nottingham - 9th April 2012 Deposit £50pp Spring into Summer/Garden Break

Pickups: Hatfield, Welwyn Garden City, Stevenage, Hitchin, Letchworth, Baldock, Royston, Biggleswade and Sandy Limited single rooms without supplements, other room upgrades available. Local excursions included, day out to Chatsworth House (entrance included) and a day out exploring Sherwood Forest.

4 nights

£395 per person

Thoresby Hall is a Grade I listed mansion set in 50 acres of fabulous landscaped gardens, with a Victorian Rose Garden situated next to Sherwood Forest. This majestic Grade I listed country hotel with its turrets, balustrades, gabled tower and finely wrought iron gates on the outside and galleries, tapestries within are perfect reminders of the exuberance of 19th century architecture.

Bembridge Coast Hotel - Isle of Wight - 18th June 2012 Deposit £50pp Summer on the lOW

4 nights

£395 per person

Bembridge Coast Hotel is situated on a secluded eastern shore with stunning views of the Solent. With its 23 acres of grounds, its famously landscaped Spanish Gardens and its marvellous sea views, Bembridge Coast is the ideal place from which to explore the Isle of Wight’s Royal history. The Isle of Wight is known as the ‘Garden Isle’ because in itself it holds vast amounts of beautiful landscapes and views which are home to all sorts of wildlife.

Holme Lacy Hotel - Herefordshire - 17th September 2012 Deposit £50pp Colours of Autumn in the Wye Valley

4 nights

£395 per person

Set in the idyllic Wye Valley, this magnificent Grade I listed mansion is mainly 18th century with its ornate ceilings, a majestic sweeping staircase, famous ornate carvings and a stately drawing room. It is set in 20 acres of landscaped parkland with a pond, topiary and hedges laid out in the geometric garden design of the period leading to an orchard, wooded parklands and fishing lake.

Bembridge Coast Hotel - Isle of Wight - 8th October 2012 Deposit £50pp Bowling Break

4 nights

£380 per person

Bembridge Cost Hotel is situated on a secluded eastern shore with stunning views of the Solent. With its 23 acres of grounds, its famously landscaped Spanish Gardens and its marvellous sea views, Bembridge Coast is the ideal place from which to explore the Isle of Wight’s Royal history. The Isle of Wight is known as the ‘Garden Isle’ because in itself it holds vast amounts of beautiful landscapes and views which are home to all sorts of wildlife.

Nidd Hall Hotel - Harrogate - 10th December 2012 Deposit £50pp Dickensian Christmas

Pickups: Hatfield, Welwyn Garden City, Stevenage, Hitchin, Letchworth, Baldock, Royston, Biggleswade and Sandy Limited single rooms without supplements, other room upgrades available.

4 nights

£395 per person

Set on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, this elegantly preserved historic Grade II listed stately home is set within 45 acres of Victorian and Edwardian parkland, sculpted lawns, stepped terraces and a magnificent fishing lake. The original bow fronted lawn of the east wing is the perfect place for the box hedge maze and gravel planting. Other points of interest include the beautiful grafted Azalea, copper beach, and Japanese azaleas.

For further information please call: Tel: 01462 481709 - Web: www.cozytours.co.uk

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Historic York 22nd April 2012 2 days

Price includes:

All Coach Travel 1 Night Half Board Entrance to York Minster

£118 pp

Single Supplement may apply

4 Star Somerset 13th April 2012 4 days

Price includes:

All Coach Travel 3 nights Half Board Local excursions

£237 pp

Single Supplement may apply

Great Gardens of Cornwall 30th April 2012 5 days

Lancashire Hills & Pendle Witches 13th May 2012 4 days

Price includes:

All Coach Travel 4 nights Half Board Entrance to Eden Project Entrance to Lost Gardens of Heligan Entrance to Trevarno Estate Gardens

£375 pp

Single Supplement may apply

Price includes:

All Coach Travel 3 nights Half Board Local guide for one full day

'Pendle Witches' tour Two course pub lunch Single journey on the East Lancs Railway Canal cruise from Foulridge with tea and coffee

£285 pp

Single Supplement may apply

c a ll 0 8 0 0 0 2 8 1 6 5 8 or reg is te r onl i ne a t c o zyto u rs .c o .u k for o ur 201 2 b r oc hur e 01462 481709 cozytours.co.uk

WHAT IS AN INTERIOR DESIGNER? By Sheila Alcock Sometimes, it’s a raw new house which needs a designer touch. Or a beautiful old home which needs interior remodelling and modernising. Sometimes, a change of lifestyle has created the need for a new look for your home, or maybe your home is looking tired and old fashioned and could do with a serious update. But you have a busy lifestyle, and very little time. The thought of sourcing builders, plumbers and decorators is overwhelming. So where do you start? Simple. Bring in an expert. Bring in an Interior Designer/Project Manager who can lead you through the intricacies of finding reliable tradesmen, and leave you free to consider ways in which your home can reflect your personality and lifestyle.

Not Just About Cushions and Curtains The title Interior Designer can be misleading, and in fact, anyone can give themselves the title of Interior Designer by taking a six week study course on how to build a samples board. This does not cover the skills acquired from undergoing a degree course in Interior Design and Furniture. Louise Putman BA (Hons), MCSD, is a graduate from Middlesex University, having completed a four year degree course in Interior Design and Furniture. This covers the full design process from concept to completion, and she also provides project management, which includes liaison with electricians, builders, furniture manufacturers/suppliers, fabric and lighting. This is followed by costings, quote comparisons,

a programme detailing time scales and completion dates. After graduating, Louise worked on a number of large corporate Headquarters and hospitality projects, including hospitality areas for All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club at Wimbledon, and Executive areas at the London Headquarters of Royal Bank of Scotland. In 2009 Louise set up her own design consultancy, Recreate Interiors.

Eureka Moment “My first priority is to understand my client’s taste and vision for the style they want to achieve. Recently, I had a client who wasn’t sure of the sort of interior she wanted,” Louise told me. “The Eureka moment arrived when she studied my mood boards, beamed, and said, “ I didn’t know what I wanted, until you showed me.” That was the moment when I could really focus on the work in hand, and establish rough guidelines on general style, budget and timescale. My work begins with the creation of a mood board, which shows a variety of interiors of different styles and colour schemes. This is accompanied by samples boards showing fabric swatches, wallpaper samples, carpets, www.retiredmagazines.co.uk

HOME finishes and options. These are discussed, the client makes a choice and at that point, I can set up a detailed summary of costings for each room to be treated by providing a detailed schedule of works to obtain ‘like for like’ quotes from tradesmen, followed by a cost plan including furniture, window treatments, finishes, fixtures and fittings, and my designer’s fees.”

qualified Interior Designer will ensure this never happens. From the update of a single room, to the remodelling of a complete house, an Interior Designer will take the drudgery out of your project, inject flair and creativity to produce the wow factor you’re looking for, and ensure that it’s completed on time, on budget, and exactly how you imagined it.

“So there’s a lot more to interior design than sourcing fabrics and carpets,” I said. Louise smiled. “We’re the ones who plod across the site with the builders. We produce detailed space plans to indicate now the space can be better utilised. We’re the ones to sort any problems with decorators and plumbers or the electricians. We discuss their problems and resolve them quickly, so that everyone knows exactly where they are, and completion dates are as stipulated.” We’ve all heard horror stories of missed completion dates, shoddy workmanship and nerves at screaming point over incorrect fittings and soaring costs. A

Mood and sample

boards

MY WORK BEGINS WITH THE CREATION OF A MOOD BOARD, WHICH SHOWS A VARIETY OF INTERIORS OF DIFFERENT STYLES AND COLOUR SCHEMES. THIS IS ACCOMPANIED BY SAMPLES BOARDS SHOWING FABRIC SWATCHES, WALLPAPER SAMPLES, CARPETS, FINISHES AND OPTIONS.

Aquarius Wet Room

the ultimate answer to bathing difficulties exclusively available from Bathing Solutions Glass side panel secured to wall

No shower tray to step over – floor is same level throughout the room

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For a free copy of our 28 page brochure call free on

Say goodbye to bathtime struggles when you completely replace your existing bathroom with the Aquarius Wet Room. By waterproofing and then tiling the entire floor, it means there’s no tray to step over and no door to open or close; it’s the ultimate in easy-access, safe showering. Complete the totally new look by choosing sanitary ware from our superb range and make bathing difficulty a thing of the past with the Aquarius Wet Room.

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Optional fold up seat for added comfort

Completely replaces all your existing bathroom fixtures and fittings

Choice of colours for wall panels & floor tiles

0800 783 1912

Please send me a brochure on your range of easy-access showers and walk-in baths. Name Tel No. Address Postcode Bathing Solutions and other group companies may send you information and offers in the future. Please tick box if you do not wish to receive information from us or third parties in the future.

Post coupon to: Bathing Solutions, FREEPOST SWC3136, Ledbury, HR8 2ZZ

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RMWR91

FO O D

DRI NK

Rick Stein's Mediterranean Escapes Recipes Rick Stein’s passion for fresh well-sourced food has taken him from continent to continent, across magnificent shorelines and to the very best produce the coast has to offer. Rick remarks “My greatest enthusiasm in life has been finding dishes that change my perception of cooking, that reveal a whole new vista of flavour combination. I think we all enjoy that. I’m just someone with an enthusiasm for food and a curiosity that’s sent me sniffing around all over the place looking for lovely dishes in all corners of the globe” Taken from his book ‘Mediterranean Escapes’ (BBC Books, £20) here are two of Rick’s favourite recipes inspired by flavours of the Med.

SERVES 4 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1/4 teaspoon crushed dried chillies 1 mild green chilli, stalk removed and thinly sliced 225g fresh porcini mushrooms, cleaned and thickly sliced 2 large, ripe vine tomatoes, skinned, seeded and sliced 400 g dried spaghetti 1 kg small clams, such as carpet-shell, washed 60 ml dry white wine A large handful flat-leaf parsley, leaves finely chopped Salt 20

Vittorio’s Pasta with Clams and Porcini Bring 4.5 litres water to the boil in a large saucepan with 8 teaspoon salt. Meanwhile, put the oil and garlic into a deep sauté or frying pan and place it over a medium heat. As soon as the garlic begins to sizzle round the edges, add the crushed chillies, green chilli and sliced porcini and cook briskly for 2-3 minutes. Add the tomatoes and cook for another minute or two. Set to one side and keep hot. Add the pasta to the pan of boiling water and cook for 9 minutes or until al dente. Heat another large pan over a high heat. Add the clams and the wine, cover and cook over a high heat for 2-3 minutes until they have all just opened. (Discard any that stay closed.) Tip them into a colander set over a bowl to collect the clam juices. Add all but the last tablespoon or two of the clam cooking liquor (which might be gritty) to the porcini sauce, return to the heat and simmer rapidly until it has reduced by half to a well-flavoured sauce. Drain the pasta and return to the pan with the cooked clams, the porcini sauce and parsley and toss together well. Serve immediately. www.retiredmagazines.co.uk

Pastitsio: Beef and Macaroni Pie with Cinnamon, Red Wine and Kefalotiri Cheese SERVES 8-10 500 g tubular pasta, such as rigatoni, tubetti or tortiglioni 2 eggs, lightly beaten 50 g finely grated Greek kefalotiri cheese or parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons melted butter 10 g fresh white breadcrumbs For the white sauce 115 g butter 115 g plain flour 1.2 litres full-cream milk, plus a little extra 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg For the meat sauce 4 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium onion, finely chopped 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped 2 celery sticks, finely chopped 1kg lean minced beef 200 ml red wine 400-g can chopped tomatoes 2 tablespoons tomato purĂŠe 10-cm piece cinnamon stick 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1 tablespoon dried oregano, Greek if possible 2 tablespoons fresh copped oregano 3 fresh bay leaves www.retiredmagazines.co.uk Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the meat sauce, heat the olive oil in a medium-sized pan, add the onion, garlic and celery and fry until just beginning to brown. Add the minced beef and fry over a high heat for 3-4 minutes, breaking up any lumps with the wooden spoon as it browns. Add the red wine, tomatoes, tomato purĂŠe, cinnamon stick, ground cloves, dried cloves, dried and fresh oregano, bay leaves, 100ml water, 11/2 teaspoons salt and some black pepper, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring now and then, until the sauce has thickened but is still nicely moist. Remove and discard the cinnamon stick and bay leaves. Bring 4.5 litres water to boil in a large saucepan with 8 teaspoons salt. Add the pasta and cook until a al dente - about 13 mins, but take care not to overcook as it will cook a little further in the oven. Drain well, transfer to a large bowl and leave to cool slightly. For the white sauce, melt the butter in a medium-sized non-stick saucepan, add the flour and cook, stirring, over a medium heat, for 1 minute. Gradually beat in the milk, then bring to the boil, stirring, lower the heat and leave to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with the nutmeg and some salt and pepper to taste. Preheat the over to 1800C/Gas Mark 4. Stir 250ml (about one-fifth) of the white sauce into the warm pasta with the beaten eggs and half the grated cheese. Keep the remaining sauce warm over a low heat, stirring now and then and adding more milk if it begins to get a little thick. Use the melted butter to grease a large, shallow ovenproof dish that measures about 23 x 33 cm across and 7cm deep. Spread one-third of the pasta over the base of the dish and cover with half the meat sauce. Add another third of the pasta and then the rest of the meat sauce, then cover with a final layer of pasta. Spoon over the remaining white sauce. Mix the remaining grated cheese with the breadcrumbs and sprinkle them over the top. Bake for 40 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.

Tis’ the season to be freezing!

The temperature is dropping, time to switch the heating on. The last thing anyone wants is this most important of creature comforts breaking down and, with the ever expensive Christmas day creeping closer, saving money on fuel bills is also very important – especially with energy prices creeping up year on year. Mark Krull, eco-expert from Logic4training - which trains gas fitters, plumbers and electricians – gives his top tips for preventing heating disasters and keeping warm for less. Frozen pipes: We suffered a particularly cold winter last year with frozen condensate pipes (the black, white or grey pipe coming from the bottom of the boiler to the outside) a common complaint. Frozen pipes means the boiler will stop working completely. To stop this happening again, ideally, you should call a Gas Safe Registered Installer to help thaw the pipe, plus find a solution to the problem. If it’s an emergency and you can’t get anyone to help, use a hot water bottle or heat wrap (like the ones used to ease muscle pain) and hold round the pipe until thawed. Only attempt to thaw a pipe at ground level, which is easily accessible – don’t scale walls or climb on the roof! Once thawed the boiler must be reset. Prevention is better than cure; insulate your pipes with waterproof lagging. Bleed radiators: If your radiators are cold at the top and hot at the bottom this means there’s an air lock and they need bleeding. Unscrew the ‘bleed screw’ at the top, using a radiator key and let the air out until water comes through. If you have a sealed system, make sure you 22

replace air let out with water, using the filling loop (this should have been shown to you when the boiler was installed.) If you’re a landlord, show your tenants how to do this when they move in, it will stop unnecessary maintenance calls. If you keep having to bleed your radiators it probably means there’s a water leak, so you should call a trained installer to take a look. Service: Whether you’ve got a gas, oil or solid fuel boiler an annual service will ensure your heating systems in working to optimum efficiency, plus highlight any problems before they arise. Landlords, this is your responsibility, tenants, make sure you ask for a CP12 Gas Safety Certificate when you move in. New gas safety rules: If you have a boiler where all, or part of, the flue cannot be seen then inspection hatches need to be fitted. You’ve got until January 2013 to sort this out. If you don’t, by law your boiler could be switched-off. Keep safe: Install a Carbon Monoxide tester to warn if there’s a leak. If you do have a leak call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately, on 0800 111 999. Keep warm (and spend less) Understand your boiler: Learn how to use your boiler properly and save on your heating. If you’re a landlord (especially one with bills included in the rent) go through how the boiler works with your tenants and explain how to use the heating most efficiently.

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· Don’t switch your heating off in the winter; keep it a low base temperature over-night. It costs more to heat up a freezing cold room. · Do turn your thermostat down. Reducing the temperature by just one degree, will save 8% on your heating bill. · Do make sure all radiators have thermostatic valves (TRV’s); then you can set the temperature in each room. Draught proof: Stop your home leaking heat like a sieve; invest in some thick curtains, draught proof round doors and windows and cover the attic hatch with blankets. Make sure your radiators aren’t covered by furniture. Insulate: Up to 35% of the heat in your home is lost through the walls, and up to 25% through your roof. Not

all houses can have cavity wall insulation, but every roof should. According to the energy saving trust, insulating your loft could save £180 a year. The Governments ‘Green Deal’ is offering free insulation for some homes, paid back through utility bills. For more information visit the Department of Energy and Climate Change’s website: www.decc.gov.uk Call in the experts: If you have any work relating to your gas heating, you must check that the installer you choose is Gas Safe Registered. They should present you with an I.D card. If they don’t have this, then walk away – badly installed or maintained gas equipment could result in death. To find your nearest Gas Safe Registered installer, visitwww.gassaferegister.co.uk.

Modular Heating from Sunflow

A cold winter causes considerable heating problems as well as huge bills. Those of us enjoying warm comfy homes have to sympathise with people suffering the cold through burst pipes, faulty boilers, lack of oil or fuel poverty. All of us should re-think the way we keep warm. In Germany, there is a big move towards ëindividual time switchedí modular heating. That is fully heating rooms just before and during use and either turning the

heating down or off when not used. The Germans have developed a special type of chamotte based heater ideal for this usage (www.sunflowltd.co.uk). Some electric heating, such as fan heaters can be very expensive to run but these German heaters are much more efficient and compare very favourably with oil and gas and just think, eliminate burst pipes, servicing, boiler replacement, oil delivery problems. Electric, a sensible heating solution.

A NEW FORM OF HEATING FROM GERMANY

Simple to install, Powerful, and no more servicing - EVER! The onslaught of severe cold is a problem at Sunflow’s quality German heating which and cosy way to reduce energy use in your faced by central European homes every comes with a 12 year guarantee and needs home. Discover for yourself this incredible German heating. single year. For 65 years, one German no servicing ever! All over Europe more people are Get your FREE brochure by calling our manufacturer has been perfecting heaters 24hr Brochure Line that tackle all the factors we worry about choosing to heat their homes and offices on: 0800 158 8270 in Britain. with this very special form of electric heating in preference to oil gas or E7. In or email: info@sunflowltd.co.uk our area, more and more people are making that same decision, when you see this incredible heating for yourself you could be next! Although relatively new in the U.K. these low input electric heaters have been used in Germany and Austria for a very long time. Being able to control individual rooms means you can put the heat exactly Total control and low input radiators allow where you need it. Our heaters are slim, us to regulate our heating and reduce fuel quality built and are available in a range of Sunflow have a package price that can include the safe and certificated removal costs by up to 40%. over 200 colours. Requiring no special wiring (they simply of oil, lpg and gas systems, even old oil For years, this country has focused on wet central heating with its constant plug in), you can use them with existing tanks! servicing and replacement parts. The high heating or as a complete solution. Whether Questions? Call Suzanne on maintenance costs, as well as rising energy you have a cold spot, cold rooms or a cold 0800 158 8272 costs, means that now is the time to look house - take a look at Sunflow for the warm

A ReAl AlteRnAtive to oil/GAs HeAtinG - Ask About ouR ReplAcement seRvice www.retiredmagazines.co.uk

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re unique. So are we. At Honey Lane Care Home, we make sure we put personal relationships first. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re one of a kind and we want it to stay that way. We believe a care home should be a home first and foremost. Honey Lane offers exceptional care and support, in beautiful and comfortable surroundings. So you can feel well and truly at home. Quality care at the heart of your community

Honey Lane Care Home, in Waltham Abbey is a purpose built home offering specialist dementia care. It has been furnished throughout by our professional team to exceptionally high standards, providing elegance and comfort but above all a warm, homely and welcoming environment. You decide what you do and when you want to do it and friends and family can visit any time. At Honey Lane our highly trained staff are leading the way in dementia care and

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“We have been extremely impressed by the care and kindness shown to my aunt, and have seen a remarkable improvement to her health since she moved to Honey Lane. Your staff are always welcoming, and take time to talk to us, showing a genuine concern not only to my aunt but to us too.” making a real difference to the lives of our residents and their families. It’s through understanding each individual, their likes and dislikes and their life story that our specialist teams can provide personal care with a real difference. Our staff are trained to make every moment count.

Honey Lane Care Home offers a range of services for long and short stays. To find out more information or to arrange a visit please contact the home manager on 01992 718 558 or email HoneylaneGM@carebase.org.uk

Specialist Dementia Care Honey Lane, Waltham Abbey, Essex, EN9 3BA

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Planning for the future

Wills - Lasting Powers of Attorney - Probate Wills If you have not yet made a Will, or it is some years since you did so, then now is the time to deal with this essential task. For many people, this is the most important document you will ever sign and yet, although nowadays we are all aware of the importance of having our affairs in order, many people still approach retirement without having an up to date Will professionally drawn up and in place. Dying without a valid Will means that all we own passes according to the law (the intestacy rules), which may not be in the manner we thought or would have wished. If we are married, everything does not necessarily automatically pass to our spouse. If we are not married to our partner, they would receive nothing: nor would our step children, our good friends, our favoured charities, or perhaps our late spouse’s niece who helps us with cooking and shopping. Worse still, if we have remarried, unless the situation has been discussed with a solicitor and a Will drawn up specifically to deal with such a situation, all we own could end up passing to the children of our second spouse, and not to our own children.

burden of inheritance tax on your eventual death. The maxim “a little knowledge is a dangerous thing” is never more true than with estate planning, and we’ll explain why it is generally not possible to avoid inheritance tax simply by giving your home to your children while you continue to live there, and in fact may result in additional tax being payable.

Lasting Powers of Attorney As important as Wills are for what happens on our death, Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) are equally important during our lifetime. We liken LPAs to holiday insurance; “We hope we’ll never have to claim on it, but we’d never go abroad without it”. An LPA is a document by which we give authority to a person or persons to act on our behalf if we find ourselves unable to do so. There are two types of LPA, and it is possible to have either or both set up for our use: Property & Financial Affairs Health & Welfare

l l

Care fees are a constant worry; with a professionally drawn up Will a specialist solicitor will be able to explain how these are calculated, and will be able to suggest ways of mitigating them in the event that you should need care at some point in the future. It is no use waiting until you or your spouse is on the verge of going into care to start thinking about these matters; now is the time to address any concerns.

The first type allows your attorney(s), who will be your choice of responsible person(s), to manage your financial and property affairs. For example, you can authorise them to write cheques on your behalf, pay bills, and claim benefits for you. By planning ahead, you are able to give your instructions while you are of sound mind, in anticipation of not being capable, either mentally or physically, to do so at some future date. Hopefully, it may never need to be used, but you will have peace of mind knowing that it is in place.

Inheritance tax (death duties) is another cause of anxiety for many people. When we meet clients to discuss their Wills, we look at all their circumstances and, if appropriate, explain about lifetime gifts and discretionary trusts, just two of the methods used to reduce the value of your estate and possibly avoid the

The Health & Welfare LPA allows you to authorise your attorney(s) to make health & welfare decisions for you, and can only be used if you lose the necessary mental capacity. They can make decisions about where you live and your day to day care; if you wish, your attorney(s)

will also be able to refuse or consent to medical treatment on your behalf. In the event of a disagreement between them and the local authority, the latter will have to abide by the decisions of your attorney(s).

We specialise in:

What problems might arise if I don’t have an LPA?

Not having LPAs in place could cause untold distress to you and to your loved ones, and create problems which could easily have been avoided. If you were struck down by a sudden illness or disability, such as a stroke, there would inevitably be significant delays before money was available for care or (if necessary) your home sold; no decisions could be made, and even your spouse would not be able to have access to money or savings held in your name. With a registered LPA in place, your attorney could deal with these problems straightaway by ‘stepping into your shoes’. If you lost your mental faculties, all your finances would be frozen until someone makes an application to the Court of Protection for a ‘Deputyship Order’, a lengthy and expensive option which could have been avoided.

Wills Probate Inheritance Tax

Estate Planning Lasting Powers of Attorney Client Affairs Probate & Older Estate Administration After your death, it is the responsibility of the person(s) Court of Protection you have appointed in your Will as your Executor(s) (or your next of kin if you have no valid Will) to deal with the winding up of your estate. If you are married and everything is held in joint names, or the value of all you have left is very modest indeed, it is sometimes straightforward enough for the executors to deal with everything without professional assistance, or perhaps only using a solicitor to apply to the Court for a grant of Probate in the estate to enable the executor(s) to collect in the assets. Often, though, matters are rather more complicated. There will be an inheritance tax Return to complete and submit, and possible a final income tax Return; estate accounts will generally need to be prepared, and it may be sensible to review everything with a specialist solicitor to see if steps might be taken to prevent assets which pass to a beneficiary or next of kin being lost to care fees, or a Deed of Variation being executed to avoid a future tax bill. When a client contacts us to advise us of a death, we usually recommend a meeting to go through the Will (or intestacy), and explain what steps will need to be taken. Depending on the complexity of the estate, and the enthusiasm (or otherwise) of the Executors to deal with some matters themselves, we can advise whether we feel it is practical for them to do so, or whether they should consider instructing solicitors either to apply to the Court for a Grant or deal with the entire administration on their behalf. At Michael Anvoner & Company we deal almost exclusively with Estate Planning matters:- Wills, Probate, Trusts, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Inheritance Tax mitigation and Older Client Affairs. Every client has their own particular intentions, wishes and requirements, and we always aim to ensure every client receives a personal, prompt, efficient, and friendly tailor-made service. And for the elderly or those with mobility problems, we can often visit clients at their home.

We’ll help guide you through HOW WE CAN HELP YOU WE SPECIALISE IN: l l l l l l l

WILLS PROBATE INHERITANCE TAX ESTATE PLANNING LASTING POWERS OF ATTORNEY OLDER CLIENT AFFAIRS COURT OF PROTECTION

HOME VISITS AVAILABLE INCLUDING EVENINGS

SOLICITORS

Constable House, 5 Bulwer Road, Barnet, Herts EN5 5JD

Estate Planning. For you, for your family, for life

If you are unsure how to deal with the affairs of a loved Tel: (020) 8449 0003 one who has died, and either you are the person named as email: law@anvoner.co.uk ExecutorConstable in their Will or (if there is no Will) you are their House, 5 Bulwer Road, Barnet, closest relative, without Herts charge EN5 5JDwe’ll give you clear, friendly and professional advice in plain English about www.anvoner.co.uk what has to be done, and the options available to you.

Tel: (020) 8449 0003

Worried About Your Bill? Having Difficulty Paying? The sooner you contact us, the quicker we can help...

Can I get a reduction in my bill?

Ways to pay your Council Tax

By Debit Card over the phone

We can reduce your Council Tax bill in the following situations:

Direct Debit is as simple as one telephone call.

Just phone your local council (see following pages) and have the following information ready:-

• If you live alone • If you are disabled and your property has been adapted because of this • If you are being cared for somewhere other than your main home • If the property we billed you for is a second home or is empty

Just phone your local council (see following pages) and have the following information ready:Your Council Tax account number

Your Council Tax account number Your debit card number, expiry date and name on the card

Your bank account details (sort code, account name and number)

• There is also a 25% discount if the other residents aged 18 or over are severely mentally impaired

If you have less than £16,000* in capital and a low income please contact the Benefits Service (see other page)

More Pensioners can now get help to pay their Council Tax and Rent... If you get Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit) you should be getting help with your rent or Council Tax bills. If you receive Pensions Credit (Savings Credit) and your capital is less than ÂŁ16,000* there is a good chance we can help. If you don't get either of these, and your capital is less than ÂŁ16,000* we may still be able to help. *We ignore in full capital that you have been awarded in respect of World War 2 prisoner of war settlements.

Don't delay, apply today Please don't let YOUR benefit go unclaimed Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit are calculated on your income and capital and also considers if there are other people living in your household. We will ask to see proof of your income and capital in the form of original documentation. All information supplied is held in the strictest confidence.

If you need help to apply, please tell us. We are here to help you.

Benefit Fraud It's your money they're stealing Things to Look out for: Some examples of things to look out for include: •

Does the individual appear to be living beyond their means? e.g. luxury goods in the home, expensive clothes or jewellery, expensive cars parked on the drive etc.

•

Is the person working? e.g. do they have vehicles parked outside the property carrying work equipment or business signage? Do they regularly go out wearing work uniforms/during working hours?

•

Might somebody have a partner living in the house who they have not declared? Might they have any other undeclared adult living with them - such as a boarder or lodger?

•

Report any suspicions immediately. Our trained investigators will do the rest.

Common types of Fraud •

Landlord is related to tenant (directly or related to children).

•

Fictitious Landlord - e.g. an owner/occupier falsely claims to be a tenant at the address.

•

Non-residency - customer is not resident at the given address.

• •

Undeclared partner - customer applies for benefit as a single person and fails to declare that a partner lives in the household. This also now applies to same sex couples.

•

Fictitious desertion - customer falsely states that their partner has left the address.

•

Customer fails to disclose that they own, or have sold, another property.

•

Failure to declare bank/building society accounts, shares, assets or capital.

•

Customer or partner fails to declare their income from full or part time employment.

All calls and any information given will be treated in confidence.

report it, in complete confidence 30

Rickmansworth Stevenage Herts SG1 1HN Benefit Section The Benefits Service WD3 1RL Tel: 01438 242440 Three Section Rivers District Council Stevenage Borough Council Benefit The Benefits Service Tel: 01923 773138. Email:benefits@stevenage.gov.uk ThreeRivers Rivers House Daneshill House Council Bene The Benefits Three Service District Council Stevenage Borough Email: benefits@threerivers.gov.u www.stevenage.gov.uk Bene Northway The Benefits Service Danestrete Thre Three Rivers House Stevenage Borough Council Daneshill House www.threerivers.gov.uk Bene Three Rickmansworth The Benefits Service Stevenage Borough Council Stevenage Benefit Section The Benefits Service Northway Danestrete Thre Daneshill House Three Herts Stevenage Borough Council Daneshill HouseRivers District Council SG1 1HN Borough Council Three Stevenage Rickmansworth Stevenage Nort Danestrete Three Nort WD3 1RL Daneshill House Danestrete Tel: 01438 242440 Three Rivers House Daneshill House The Benefits Service Benefits Section Benefit Service Herts Bene SG1 1HN The Benefits Service Rickm Benefit Section Stevenage The Benefits Service Nort Rickm Tel: 01923 773138. Danestrete Stevenage Email:benefits@stevenage.gov.uk Northway Danestrete Stevenage Borough Council Three Rivers District Council WD3 1RL Benefits Section Three Stevenage Borough Council Tel: 01438 242440 Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council Three Rivers District Council Stevenage Borough Council Hert SG1 1HN Rickm Herts Email: benefits@threerivers.gov.uk Stevenage SG1 1HN www.stevenage.gov.uk Rickmansworth Stevenage Daneshill House, Danestrete Three Rivers House Three Tel: 01923 773138. Email:benefits@stevenage.gov.uk Daneshill House North Hertfordshire District Coun The Campus Three Rivers House Daneshill House WD3 Herts WD3 Tel: 01438 242440 www.threerivers.gov.uk SG1 1HN Tel: 01438 242440 Herts SG1 1HN Stevenage SG1 1HN Northway, Rickmansworth Email: benefits@threerivers.gov.uk North www.stevenage.gov.uk Danestrete Council Offices Northway Welwyn Garden City Danestrete WD3 Tel: 00 Tel: Tel: 01438 242440 Email:benefits@stevenage.gov.uk Email:benefits@stevenage.gov.uk WD3 1RL Tel: 242440 Tel:01438 01438 242440 Herts WD3 1RL www.threerivers.gov.uk Rickm Stevenage Rickmansworth Stevenage Gernon Road Herts Tel: 0 Emai Email:benefits@stevenage.gov.uk www.stevenage.gov.uk Benefit Service Ema Tel: 01923 773138. Email:benefits@stevenage.gov.uk Email: benefits@stevenage.gov.uk www.stevenage.gov.uk Tel:Herts 01923 773138 Herts SG1 1HN SG1 1HN6AE Emai Letchworth Garden City www Benefits Section www.stevenage.gov.uk AL8 Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council Email: benefits@threerivers.gov.uk www www.stevenage.gov.uk WD3 www.stevenage.gov.uk Email: benefits@threerivers.gov.uk Benefit Service Tel: 01438 242440 WD3 1RL Tel: 01438 242440 www North Hertfordshire District Council The Campus SG6 3JF www.threerivers.gov.uk Tel: 01707 Benefits Section www.threerivers.gov.uk Tel: 0 Welwyn Hatfield357000 Borough Council Email:benefits@stevenage.gov.uk Tel: 01923 773138. Email:benefits@stevenage.gov.uk Council Offices Benefit Service Welwyn Garden City Tel: 01462 474597 Email: benefits@welhat.gov.uk North Hertfordshire District Council Emai The Campus www.stevenage.gov.uk Benefit Service Email: benefits@threerivers.gov.uk www.stevenage.gov.uk Bene Gernon Road Benefit Service Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council Herts Benefit Service Benefit Service Council Offices Email: benefits@north-herts.gov.u www Welwyn Garden City www.welhat.gov.uk Bene Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council www.threerivers.gov.uk Bene In Person: Benefits Section Nort Letchworth Garden City Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council The Campus AL8 6AE Benefits Section Welwyn Hatfield Borough Welwyn Hatfield BoroughCouncil Council Gernon Road Herts www.north-herts.gov.uk Working in partnership with ARP Nort The Campus Nort North Hertfordshire District Council Coun SG6 3JF The Campus WelwynService Garden CityGarden City Tel: 01707 357000 North Hertfordshire District Council The Campus The Campus, Welwyn Garden City Letchworth AL8 6AE Benefit Coun Benefit Service Welwyn Garden City Coun Gern Council Offices Tel: 01462 474597 Welwyn Garden City Herts Email: benefits@welhat.gov.uk Council Offices Welwyn Garden SG6 3JF Herts AL8 6AE City Bene Tel: 01707 357000 Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council Benefits Section Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council Gern Gern Letch HertsThe Gernon Road Email: benefits@north-herts.gov.uk Herts AL8 6AE www.welhat.gov.uk Gernon Road Herts Tel: 01462 474597 Tel:Campus 01707 357000 North Campus Email: benefits@welhat.gov.uk North Hertfordshire District Council The Letch3 SG6 www.north-herts.gov.uk Letch Letchworth Garden City SG6 3JF Hertsmere Borough Council AL8 6AE Tel: 01707 357000 Working in partnership with ARP AL8 6AE ARPT Working in Partnership with Letchworth Garden City AL8 6AEbenefits@welhat.gov.uk Coun benefits@north-herts.gov.uk Email: www.welhat.gov.uk Welwyn Email: Garden City Council Offices Welwyn Garden City SG603 Tel: Tel: 01707 357000 Email:357000 benefits@welhat.gov.uk SG6 Civic Service Offices SG6 to: 3JFBenefits Tel: 01707 By Post Welwyn Hatfield Council Tel: 01707 357000 www.north-herts.gov.uk www.welhat.gov.uk Gern Working in partnership with ARP Herts Gernon Road Herts Tel: Emai00 Email: benefits@welhat.gov.uk www.welhat.gov.uk Tel:Hertfordshire 01462 Elstree 474597 Tel: North District Council Email: benefits@welhat.gov.uk benefits@welhat.gov.uk Way Letch Working in partnership with Steria Email:AL8 6AE Letchworth Garden City AL8 6AE Emai www Hertsmere Borough Council www.welhat.gov.uk Working partnership with ARP ARPT Working in Partnership with Email: benefits@north-herts.gov.uk www.welhat.gov.uk POin Box 480 Ema www.welhat.gov.uk SG6 3 Tel: 01707 357000 Borehamwood SG6 3JF Tel: 01707 357000Council www Civic Offices Working in partnership with ARP Welwyn Hatfield www.north-herts.gov.uk Working in partnership with ARP Sale M33 ODE Tel: 0 Hertsmere Borough Council www ARPT Working in Partnership with Steria working in Partnership with Email: Working in benefits@welhat.gov.uk partnership with ARP Herts Tel: 01462 Dacorum Borough Council Email: benefits@welhat.gov.uk Elstree Way474597 Civic Offices Emai Welwyn Hatfield Council Welwyn Hatfield Council www.welhat.gov.uk benefits@north-herts.gov.uk WD6 1WA Tel:Email: 01462 474597 www.welhat.gov.uk Civic Centre Herts Borehamwood ARPT Working in Partnership with Elstree Way www Working inwww.north-herts.gov.uk partnership with ARP Working in partnership with ARP Email: benefits@north-herts.gov.uk Tel: 020 8207 7404 Herts Civic Herts Marlowes ARPT Working in Partnership with Welwyn Hatfield Council Dacorum Borough Council Hertsmere Borough Council ARPT Working in Partnership with Borehamwood Hert www.north-herts.gov.uk ARPT Working in Partnership with Civic Elstre WD6 1WA Welwyn Hatfield Council Fax: 0208 207 7403 Civic Centre Hemel Hempstead Civic Offices Welwyn Hatfield Council Herts Dacorum Borough Council Dacorum Borough Council Civic Elstre Welwyn Hatfield Council Bore Tel: 020 8207 7404 Marlowes Elstree WayEmail benefits@hertsmere.gov.uk Hertfordshire WD6 1WA Herts Civic Centre in Partnership with Civic Centre ARPT Working in Partnership with Hertsmere Borough Council ARPT Working Hertsmere Borough Council Bore Herts Elstre Fax: 0208 207 7403 Dacorum Borough Council Hemel Borehamwood Tel: 020 8207 7404 www.hertsmere.gov.uk Civic Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead Marlowes HP1Hempstead 1HH Welwyn Hatfield Council Civic Offices Welwyn Hatfield Council Civic Offices, Elstree Way Herts WD6 Email benefits@hertsmere.gov.uk Dacorum Borough Council Civic Centre Hertfordshire Bore Herts Dacorum Borough Fax: 0208Way 207 7403 Elstre Hemel Hempstead Hertfordshire HP1Council 1HH Tel: 01442 867868 Elstree Borehamwood WD60 Tel: www.hertsmere.gov.uk Civic Centre Marlowes HP1 1HH WD6benefits@hertsmere.gov.uk 1WA Hert Civic Centre Dacorum Borough Council Boreh Email Hertfordshire Tel: 01442 228 000 and ask for Benefits Borehamwood Email: housing.benefits@dacorum.gov.uk Herts WD6 1WA Tel: 00 Fax: Marlowes Hemel Hempstead Tel: 01442 867868 Tel: 020 8207 7404 Marlowes WD6 www.hertsmere.gov.uk Civic Dacorum Centre Herts HP1 1HH Email: housing.benefits@dacorum.gov.uk Borough Council Herts Dacorum Borough Council East Herts Council Tel: 0208 207 7404 www.dacorum.gov.uk Fax: Emai0 Hemel Hempstead Hertfordshire Email: housing.benefits@dacorum.gov.uk Fax: 0208 207 7403 Hemel Hempstead WD6 Tel: 0 Tel: 01442 867868 www.dacorum.gov.uk Civic Centre Marlowes WD6 1WA Civic Centre Fax:East 0208 207Council 7403Causeway, Emai The www Herts Hertfordshire HP1 1HH www.dacorum.gov.uk Email benefits@hertsmere.gov.uk Hertfordshire Marlowes Tel: 0 Email: housing.benefits@dacorum.gov.uk Fax: HemelTel: Hempstead Tel: 020 8207 7404 Stortford, Marlowes Email: benefits@hertsmere.gov.uk www The Causeway, HP1 1HH 01442 867868 Bishop's www.hertsmere.gov.uk HP1 1HH Fax: 0 East Herts Council www.dacorum.gov.uk Hemel Hempstead Ema Fax: 0208 207 7403 Hertfordshire Hemel Hempstead www.hertsmere.gov.uk Bishop's Stortford, Tel: 01442 867868 Email: housing.benefits@dacorum.gov.uk Herts, Tel: 01442 867868 StAlbans Albans District Council The Causeway, Emai St District Council Hertfordshire Email www Hertfordshire HP1 1HH East H Herts, benefits@hertsmere.gov.uk Email: housing.benefits@dacorum.gov.uk www.dacorum.gov.uk St Albans District Council Email: housing.benefits@dacorum.gov.uk Bishop's Stortford, CM23 2EN. www District Council Offices District Council Offices, Civic Centre HP1 1HH www.hertsmere.gov.uk HP1 1HH East CH Tel: 01442 867868 The CM23 2EN. www.dacorum.gov.uk District Council Offices, Civic Centre East Herts Council www.dacorum.gov.uk Herts, Tel: 01442 867868 StTel: Albans District Civic Centre, StCouncil Albans East Herts Council Tel: 01279 655261 St Albans, Herts AL1 3JE 01442 867868 The C Bisho Tel: 01279 655261 Email: housing.benefits@dacorum.gov.uk St Albans, Herts AL1 3JE The Causeway, CM23 2EN. Email: benefits@eastherts.gov.uk District Council Offices, Civic Centre Herts AL1 3JE Email: The housing.benefits@dacorum.gov.uk Causeway Email: housing.benefits@dacorum.gov.uk Tel: 01727 866100 Bisho Herts Email: benefits@eastherts.gov.uk St Albans District Council Tel: 01727 866100 East www.dacorum.gov.uk Bishop's Stortford, Tel: 01279 655261 East H Stwww.dacorum.gov.uk Albans, Herts AL1 3JE Tel: 01727 866100 www.dacorum.gov.uk Bishop's Stortford East Herts Council www.eastherts.gov.uk Herts Text phone 07727 819570 CM23 www.eastherts.gov.uk St Albans District Council District Council Offices, Civic Centre Text phone 07727 819570 Herts, The C StText Albans District Council Email: benefits@eastherts.gov.uk The C Tel: 01727 866100 phone 07727 819570 Herts CM23 2EN The Causeway, CM23 Tel: 0 District Council Offices, Civic Centre St Albans, Herts AL1 3JE Email benefits@stalbans.gov.uk Email benefits@stalbans.gov.uk CM23 District Council Bisho www.eastherts.gov.uk Bisho Text phone 07727Offices, 819570Civic Centre Email: benefits@stalbans.gov.uk Tel: 012792EN. 655261 Bishop's Stortford, Tel: 0 Emai St Albans, Herts AL1 3JE Tel: 01727 866100 www.stalbans.gov.uk Tel: 01279 655261 www.stalbans.gov.uk St Albans, Herts AL1 3JE Herts Herts Email benefits@stalbans.gov.uk St Albans District Council St Albans District Council Email: benefits@eastherts.gov.uk Herts, Stwww.stalbans.gov.uk Albans District Council Emai www The Benefits Office Tel: 01727 866100 Text phone 07727 819570 Email: benefits@eastherts.gov.uk Tel: 01727 866100 TheCivic Benefits CM23 www.stalbans.gov.uk District Council Offices, CentreOffice CM2 www.eastherts.gov.uk Council Offices, Civic Centre CM23 2EN. District Council Offices, Civic Centre District www Watford Council Text phone 07727 819570 Email benefits@stalbans.gov.uk www.eastherts.gov.uk Text phone 07727 819570 The Benefits Office Tel: 01 Watford Council St Albans, Herts AL1 3JE Tel: 0 Tel: 01279 655261 St Albans, Herts AL1 3JE St Albans, Herts AL1 3JE Town Hall, Email benefits@stalbans.gov.uk www.stalbans.gov.uk Broxbourne Council Email benefits@stalbans.gov.uk Watford Council Tel: 01727 866100 Email Broxbourne Council Town Hall, Email: benefits@eastherts.gov.uk Broxbourne Council Emai Tel: 01727 866100 Tel: 01727 866100 The B Watford, www.stalbans.gov.uk Bishops' College The Benefits Office www.stalbans.gov.uk www Town Hall, 819570 Broxbourne Council Bishops' College Text phone 07727 www.eastherts.gov.uk Watford, Text phone 07727 819570 www Bishops' College The B Text phone 07727 819570 Watfo Herts, Churchgate, Cheshunt Watford Council Office The Benefits Watford, Bishops' College Email benefits@stalbans.gov.uk Churchgate, Cheshunt Email benefits@stalbans.gov.uk Herts, Watfo Town WD17 3EX Churchgate, Cheshunt Broxbourne Council Emailwww.stalbans.gov.uk benefits@stalbans.gov.uk Hertfordshire EN8 9XG Town Hall, Watford Watford Council Herts, Churchgate, Cheshunt Hertfordshire EN8 9XG www.stalbans.gov.uk Town Watfo Tel: 01923 278501 Broxbourne Council Bishops' College WD17 3EX Tel: 01992 785503 Hertfordshire EN8 9XG www.stalbans.gov.uk Herts WD17 Town Hall,3EX Broxbourne Council WD17 3EX The B Hertfordshire 9XG Tel: 01992 EN8 785503 The Benefits Office Watfo Herts Fax: 01923 278541 Bishops' College Churchgate, Cheshunt Email: benefits@broxbourne.gov.uk The B Watford, Tel: 01923 278501 Tel: 01923 278501 Bishops' College Tel: 01992 785503 Watfo Tel: 01923 278501 Tel:Email: 01992benefits@broxbourne.gov.uk 785503 Watford Council Herts WD1 Email: revenues&benefits@watford.gov.uk Churchgate, Cheshunt Hertfordshire EN8 9XG www.broxbourne.gov.uk Herts, Fax: 01923 278541 Churchgate, Cheshunt Watf Fax: 01923 278541 Fax: 01923 278541 Town Email: benefits@broxbourne.gov.uk Email: benefits@broxbourne.gov.uk Broxbourne Council www.broxbourne.gov.uk Town Hall,9XG Broxbourne Council WD1 Tel: 0 www.watford.gov.uk Hertfordshire EN8 Tel: 01992 785503 WD17 3EX Email: benefits@watford.gov.uk Hertfordshire EN8 9XG Email: revenues&benefits@watford.gov.uk Town Watfo www.broxbourne.gov.uk Broxbourne Council Bishops' College Email: revenues&benefits@watford www.broxbourne.gov.uk Watford, Bishops' College Tel: 00 Fax: Tel: 01992 785503 Email: benefits@broxbourne.gov.uk Tel:Cheshunt 01923 278501 www.watford.gov.uk Tel: 01992 785503 www.watford.gov.uk Herts Churchgate, Watf Bishops' College www.watford.gov.uk Herts, Churchgate, Cheshunt Fax: 0 Emai Email: benefits@broxbourne.gov.uk www.broxbourne.gov.uk Fax:EN8 01923 278541 Email: benefits@broxbourne.gov.uk Churchgate, WD17 Hertfordshire 9XG Herts WD17 3EX Cheshunt Hertfordshire EN8 9XG Emai www www.broxbourne.gov.uk Email: revenues&benefits@watford.gov.uk Tel: www.broxbourne.gov.uk 01 Tel: 01992EN8 785503 Tel: 01923 278501 WD1 Tel: 01992 785503 Hertfordshire 9XG www www.watford.gov.uk Fax: Email: benefits@broxbourne.gov.uk Fax: 01923 278541 Email: benefits@broxbourne.gov.uk Tel: 01992 785503 Tel: 00 Email www.broxbourne.gov.uk Email: revenues&benefits@watford.gov.uk 31 Fax: 0 www.broxbourne.gov.uk www.retiredmagazines.co.uk Email: benefits@broxbourne.gov.uk www www.watford.gov.uk Emai www.broxbourne.gov.uk www

Contact your local Council

Sixties: St Albans in a Decade of Change Museum of St Albans 1st October 2011 to 22nd April 2012

Ryders Seed Hall, Holywell Hill

Lyons, High Street

World Cup Willy

Do you remember the days when summers were long, skirts were short and the BBC started Radio 1 just for you? A time long before home computers and mobile phones, yet when space travel seemed like it might be just around the corner? A time when you could play out on the streets without a care? You could even play conkers at school! Take a step back through the beaded curtains to the colourful world of 1960s St Albans. Explore this fascinating decade; from fashion and interior design, pop music and the folk revival, to the world politics and new technology that influenced everything. Sit in a 1960s living room, and watch an early episode of Dr Who. Find out what children kept in their school desk and which toys were on their Christmas lists. See how St Albans has changed over the last 50 years through cine film footage and old photographs. And if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re too young to rememberâ&#x20AC;Ścome along and try on the clothes, play the games, listen to the music and find out about the events and the people that made this a remarkable decade.

A fun and interactive exhibition for all of the family. Admission Free

u m s an b l a .st w w w

Museum of St Albans

9a Hatfield Road

St Albans

um e s

AL1 3RR

g.uk r o . s

H E A LT H

Coping with the

Winter Months Cold or Flu?

Colds and flu share some of the same symptoms (sneezing, coughing, sore throat), but are caused by different viruses. Flu can be much more serious than a cold. If you’re generally fit and healthy, you can usually manage the symptoms of a cold or flu yourself without seeing a doctor. Look after yourself by resting, drinking non-alcoholic fluids to avoid dehydration and avoiding strenuous activity. Painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can relieve aches and pains. Some people need to take extra care as they’re more at risk of serious chest complications, such as pneumonia and bronchitis. People over 65 are more at risk of complications. People under 65, including children, are more at risk of complications if they have serious heart or chest complaints, including asthma, serious kidney disease or liver disease, diabetes, lowered immunity due to disease or treatment or have had a stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA).

Flu Flu usually comes on much more quickly than a cold, and symptoms include sudden fever of 38-40°C (100104°F), muscle aches and pains, sweating, feeling exhausted and needing to lie down, dry & chesty cough and sneezing.

Symptoms

Flu symptoms appear one to three days after infection and most people recover within a week, although you may feel tired for longer. A severe cold can also cause muscle aches and fever, so it can be hard to tell the difference.

There are around 200 viruses that cause colds and three that cause flu. There are many strains of these flu viruses, and the vaccine changes every year to protect against the most common ones.

Whether it’s a cold or flu, get medical help if you have a chronic condition (such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease), or if you have a very high fever as well as an unusually severe headache or abdominal or chest pain.

Colds

Stop the viruses spreading

Everyone in an at-risk group is eligible for a free flu vaccination. This is the best protection against the virus.

Symptoms of a cold include a runny nose, beginning with clear mucus that develops into thicker, green mucus as the cold progresses, blocked nose, sore throat, sneezing and a cough. People with a cold may also suffer with a mild fever, earache, tiredness and headache. Symptoms develop over one or two days and gradually get better after a few days. Some colds can last for up to two weeks. Help prevent colds and flu from spreading by sneezing or coughing into a tissue, throwing the tissue away, washing your hands and getting the flu jab if you’re eligible. According to the Common Cold Centre in Cardiff, a cold is most contagious during the early stages when the person has a runny nose and sore throat.

Information provided courtesy of

Cold and flu viruses are spread by droplets that are sneezed or coughed out by an infected person. Other people can breathe in these droplets or transfer the droplets to their eyes or nose on their fingers. Again protect yourself and others against colds and flu by coughing or sneezing into a tissue, throwing a used tissue away as soon as possible, washing your hands as soon as possible and having a flu jab every year if you’re in an at-risk group.

Please visit www.nhs.uk for further details. 33

How important is your sight? IF we were asked to describe which of the senses we could not bear to lose research shows that 90 per cent of us would most fear losing our sight. Our eyes are our link with life around us, our guide to inter-action, and the idea of losing that daily visual connection is naturally frightening. But, with that in mind, do we really take enough care of the precious gift of sight? And are we aware of the problems that can affect it as we grow older? It’s a fact that nearly two million people in the UK today are blind or partially sighted, and that every 15 minutes someone, somewhere begins to lose their sight. Such worrying statistics should make us want to rush out and do something practical about caring for our eyes, but the reality is that many of us simply don’t know how to.

It’s important to have an eye test every two years just as veteran actress Honor Blackman is doing here. Picture courtesy of Action for Blind People

There are, however, some simple things that we can do to help our vision and look after our eyes. And, just like any other part of the body, exercise is important. Yes, strange as it may sound, a workout for the eyes can definitely tone eye muscles which can help our eyes focus more easily and may alleviate eyestrain. Try this easy Eye Workout two or three times a day. But before you start, ensure you remove your glasses or contact lenses, bathe your eyes so they don’t feel dry or scratchy, and relax, breathing deeply and focusing on your eyes.

EYE WORKOUT: THE CLOCKFACE Look straight ahead, imagine that you are looking at the face of a giant clock. Keeping your head still, move your eyes slowly to each number on the clockface in a clockwise direction then repeat the movement anticlockwise. Next, look up at the number 12, stretching your eye muscles as much as you can, then down at the 6, then stretch to 3 and across to 9. THE SQUEEZE Squeeze your eyes into a tight ball and hold there for three seconds. Open your eyes and stretch them as wide as you can for three seconds. Repeat the exercise five times. SHIFTING FOCUS Hold up a finger in front of your face, about six inches away. Select another object – a tree or building, for example – at least 20 feet (6 metres) away. Then alternate between these two points, far and near, looking at each for around two seconds at a time. Repeat the exercise for two to three minutes. 34

DARK TO LIGHT Place your cupped palms over your open eyes and hold them there for 20-30 seconds. Allow your eyes to relax in the darkness, take long deep breaths then remove your hands and blink slowly. Just like any other element of personal health, good nutrition is necessary to help our bodies grow properly, repair wear and tear, protect against infection and function correctly. And the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) points out that antioxidant vitamins found in certain foods have been linked with eye health, helping to maintain healthy cells and tissues in the eye. This mainly involves antioxidant vitamins A, C and E which can be found in different types of fruit and vegetables including oranges, kiwis, grapefruit, dried apricots, tomatoes, peppers, raw carrots, kale and spinach, green peas and beans and brussel sprouts. They are also in nuts, seeds, dairy products and eggs. The RNIB says it has also been suggested recently that two types of antioxidants known as carotenoids, and called lutein and zeaxanthin, may also help with eye health. Some studies have found that people who have a good diet rich in carotenoids, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin, have a lower risk of developing Age-related Macular Degeneration - an eye condition resulting in the loss of central vision.. Lutein can be found naturally in vegetables and fruit including yellow peppers, mango, bilberries, kale, spinach, chard and broccoli. And zeaxanthin can be found in orange sweet peppers, corn, lettuce (not iceberg), tangerines, oranges and eggs. A regular eye test can identify any early indications of diseases such as Cataract, Glaucoma and Age-related

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Macular Degeneration. It can also identify other problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure for which the optometrist can refer you back to a GP. For general inquiries about sight problems contact the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or go to www.actionforblindpeople.org.uk

TOP TEN TIPS FOR PROTECTING YOUR EYESIGHT 1. Wear sunglasses – Ultra violet light from the sun’s rays can cause damage to your eyes. To reduce risks always wear a pair of sunglasses outside in the sun. Check your shades have a UV factor rating and carry the CE mark indicating they meet European safety standards. 2. Take regular screen breaks – If you use a computer, take frequent breaks from your screen – at least one an hour. Resting your eyes can avoid headaches, eyestrain, soreness and double vision. 3. Eat the right food – Some foods can prevent eye conditions. 4. Know your family eye history – Glaucoma, a condition which causes sight to become patchy and may lead to tunnel vision can, if detected early, be treated and controlled. It can be hereditary, although it may skip generations. So if members of your family have the condition, go and get yourself tested. 5. Clean your contact lenses – Only use commercially prepared solutions for contact lens care and never

use tap or distilled water, or saliva. If you don’t stick to a strict cleaning routine, your eyes can become infected and you risk corneal disease, or even the loss of an eye. You should never borrow or use anybody else’s contacts and never sleep in your contacts unless advised you can by the optometrist. 6. Wear safety glasses – Cleaning, DIY or gardening can be hazardous to your eyes as chemicals, garden debris or nails and splinters can all cause injury. Consider wearing safety goggles. 7. Take care with cosmetics – Be careful when using eye make-up remover or any other cream around your eyes. Also, close your eyes or turn away when spraying perfume or hairspray. 8. Know your first-aid – Never guess about the severity of an eye injury. Seek medical attention as soon as possible following an injury, particularly if you have pain in the eye, blurred vision or loss of vision. 9. Diabetics – Although the majority of diabetics never experience any eye problems at all, people who have diabetes are at risk of losing vision through a condition called Diabetic Retinopathy. 10. Visit your optician – More than half of all sight loss is avoidable if the cause is caught early. It is recommended that people have an eye test every two years – free to anyone under 16 or over 60, anyone over 70, or who are diabetic are entitled and recommended to have an eye test every year – but research shows that one in four of us fail to do this.

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A healthy body could bring a healthy mind Dementia is more prevalent and more widely known than at any time and has become one of the scourges of the 21st century, but everyone can do something to try and avoid it. Early symptoms of the illness are memory loss and confusion, and eventually it leads to a complete loss of cognitive functioning, where the person with dementia relies on care 24 hours a day. There are many different types of dementia but the most common form is Alzheimer’s disease. Maybe you engage in exercise and eat healthily to maintain your physical health and well-being, but did you know that you are also benefiting your mental health? There is mounting scientific evidence showing that positive lifestyle decisions you make now will help to reduce your risk of developing dementia later in life. Making the right changes in diet, exercise, mental stimulation and social interaction are good for you and good for your brain. Reducing your risk of dementia does not require huge lifestyle shifts, but small changes in four key areas that will greatly benefit your mental health Whilst awareness of the link between what we consume and how it affects our physical health and well being is increasing, the link between diet and brain health is less recognised. However, the same healthy diet that protects against diseases such as coronary heart disease, diabetes and strokes also protects our brain. There is growing evidence that what we eat is one of the factors that affects our risk of dementia. So what should we be eating to ensure we are brain healthy? Our bodies and minds need a balanced diet to make sure we receive the correct amounts of vitamins, minerals, protein and fibre. Vitamins and minerals are vital for repairing damage to the body caused by free radicals and are naturally occurring in fresh fruit and vegetables such as berries, walnuts, sunflower seeds and ginger. Evidence also supports the consumption of Omega 3 fatty acids found in oily fish such as mackerel and salmon as it could help reduce the risk of dementia by up to 60 per cent if eaten at least once a week. It is also important to avoid excess salt in food as www.retiredmagazines.co.uk

research into vascular dementia has shown that high blood pressure, which is linked to high salt in take is known to increase the likelihood of the illness. Physical activity helps the body to remain healthy and mobile by keeping joints and muscles in good condition and keeping the heart and blood circulation pumping. It is also good for the brain. Although it is still not clear why this is the case, it is likely to do with improving blood flow to the brain, enabling it to carry out its function. If images of gyms and aerobic studios fill you with dread there is no need to panic. The recommended minimum level of physical activity for adults is 30 minutes of moderate activity most days and could include cycling, jogging, brisk walks, an afternoon gardening or simply using the stairs instead of catching the lift - anything that increases your heart rate and makes you breathe more deeply. An American study of 3,375 men and women over the age of 65 found that those who took part in four or more different kinds of physical activity had about half the risk of developing dementia of those who did just one or none of these activities. Activities included walking, housework, gardening, golfing and swimming. The phrase ‘use it or lose it’ is perhaps most pertinent to older people who are beginning to notice a decline in their abilities to retain and process information. Evidence also suggests that mental stimulation may have a preventative effect for illnesses such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. One American study asked subjects to look back on their 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s and report on which leisure activities they had taken part in and for how long each month. People who had done more intellectual activities in their 20s and 30s were at a lower risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Intellectual activities included things like reading, doing jigsaws and other puzzles, playing a musical instrument, writing letters, playing 37

board games, doing crafts or home repairs. Those who had increased their intellectual activities after their 30s also reduced their risk of Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease by up to 47 per cent. So doing the crossword every morning might drive you to distraction, but it could also be helping to increase your cognitive reserve enabling your brain to adapt more in some areas to make up for other damaged areas. Think of your brain as a muscle that requires exercising in the same way as other muscles in your body. It is only recently that scientists have begun looking at the effects of social interaction and how it might affect human health, in particular the risk of developing dementia. However the evidence so far suggests that maintaining and developing social activities could be good for your brain. It is thought that as with mental stimulation, social interaction may help to build cognitive reserves. A lot of the evidence showing the benefits of social interaction comes from Sweden and one study in particular showed that having a poor or limited social network increased the risk of dementia by up to 60 per cent. Later studies from the same large scale project found that activities involving mental, physical and social stimulation individually offered some protection

against dementia but that combining two or three of these offered the most benefit. With our increasingly hectic lifestyles we tend to make ourselves our last priority. It is therefore important to make sure you do something sociable and enjoyable every day. Activities that combine mental, physical and social stimulation may be even better for protecting against dementia. Keep in touch with friends and family by phone, email or a letter, go out with friends of colleagues, volunteer for something that interests you or join a club. If you are coming up to retirement, plan how you will remain socially involved â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you could start a completely new and different hobby! In summary, more and more research continues to highlight that there are certain things we can do now to actively reduce our risk of developing dementia later in life. However it is important to note that much of this evidence comes from studies of large groups of people ad that the evidence might not apply to an individual. There is no guarantee that acting even on the best evidence available, will help a particular person avoid or delay the onset of dementia. However, making these lifestyle changes means you are taking informed and empowering steps to improving your mental and physical health what ever your age and there is no doubt that this is good for you, and good for your brain.

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Enabling the Disabled

magine if every one of us had been born with no strength in our fingers. It’s possible we’d hardly notice we had a problem, because commonplace items like screw top jars or scissors and cutlery would be designed to be used without the need for strength in the hands. Unfortunately, because the majority of us have strong hands and the ability to open cans and use cutlery, the ones who can’t have a major problem getting the lid off a jar of instant coffee, and have to ask for help, until now. To most problems there are answers, and fortunately, there are talented designers out there who can put themselves in the place of people with disabilities, and come up with a way of improving their lives. There’s still a long way to go, but it should be said that people with disabilities have an easier time of it than if they’d lived one hundred years ago, when there were virtually no significant aids for the disabled. When Stefan Farffler invented the wheelchair in the 17th century, it must have been a wonderful thing for the housebound to have the ability to move around independently at last, and almost impossible for the physically fit to understand how much it meant to have that precious independence. It’s really all about recognising a need and coming up with a solution, and these days, the problems of the disabled are being studied, and solutions are being designed. For outdoor use, wheelchairs are fast being replaced by electric buggies, and now, a trip to the shops and a wander around a super store is possible without the need to ask for help. And how wonderful, at last, to be able to browse the food ranges in M & S, or take the time to really check on the latest fashions, without feeling that you’re taking too long, and your helper needs to get home.

was pleasantly surprised at the number of ingenious solutions available. For the kitchen, I found a nifty gadget for pouring boiling water from the kettle without needing to lift it, a one handled grater, and a one touch jar opener. For the bathroom, I found a swivel seat which clamps on to the edge of the bath. It has a grab rail for extra security, and works by allowing you to sit, then swivel around for easier access to the bath. Getting out of the bath is just as easy in reverse. Fancy taking a bike ride? Well, you can, there are trikes out there with a mounting step of just 6”, making it easier to get on and off. Like playing cards, but find the shuffling difficult? No worries, there’s an automatic card shuffler available. There are tap turners and key turners, long handled brushes and combs, and even elastic shoe laces. It seems that the problems of the disabled are being addressed very closely these days, and maybe, with a little shopping around, the answer to individual problems can be solved. From power chairs and walking aids, to magnifiers and weighted pens, there’s help out there to enable the disabled to be happier, more independent and free to get the very best out of their lives.

Sometimes, even the smallest aid can make a difference, and I’ve been going from room to room in my house, and wondering how I’d manage if I were sitting in a wheelchair. I tried turning on the lights from a sitting position, and couldn’t reach the switch. My oven is at eye level, so I couldn’t turn it on. I could only just reach my back door handle, and my worktops were all too high to use for chopping vegetables or making a cup of tea. It was a revelation, and I began to realise the difficulties encountered on a daily basis by people in wheelchairs. I started looking more closely at the ways available to make living easier for the handicapped, and

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The Dilnot Report - The Most Ambitious Report into Long Term Care since 1999 Andrew Dilnot’s report takes the view that the existing funding system for long term care is confusing, unfair, and unsustainable. His proposals for change would cost an initial £1.7bn a year, but he claims this is a price well worth paying. At present, anyone with savings and assets of more than £23,250 has no help from the state for care costs. The Dilnot report recommends that this limit should rise to £100,000. No individual should have to pay more that £35,000 towards their care costs, regardless of savings, although they would still be liable for costs of accommodation and food in a care home, but this would be capped at £10,000 a year. If these proposals were implemented, no individual would have to spend more than 30% of their assets on care. Health Secretary Andrew Lansley has described this report as an “immensely valuable contribution” but the government would need to consider this against other funding priorities. Ministers considered the plans ambitious and costly, but were impressed with proposals for a simplified means testing system, better national standards, and the cap, which could enable a viable private insurance market to work. Government response will be published next spring, and proposals for the reform of adult social care will be published in a white paper. So we wait, and hope, that government acts promptly on this report. Twenty three leading charity organisations issued a joint statement, in which they urged that the government “sets out a clear timetable for change and does so quickly.” At present, we cannot insure against future care costs, for the simple reason that we have no idea how much we may need. Once the cap on costs is implemented, insurance companies can become involved, or savings can be considered, so that the worry over where money will come from for long term care can be alleviated. In the meantime, the rules for long term care are complex and confusing. Various factors, such as restrictions on mobility, behaviour changes brought on by the illness, and speed of deterioration, all count in the assessment process, and a patient may not automatically qualify for NHS funding. Over the past ten years there have been many cases where people 42

have been forced to sell their homes to pay healthcare fees, and in some cases, later discovered they were entitled to state support. At present, levels of care and criteria vary from borough to borough and Age UK says that councils are rationing services. The outlook for the elderly looks bleak. We’ve all been appalled over cases where vulnerable older people have been neglected and mistreated, and hopefully, the Dilnot report will help to ensure that this can never happen again However, this will take time. In the meantime, how can elderly people, and their families, ensure that they’re given dedicated care and kindness in their most vulnerable years. 1. It is essential that the correct level of funding is established. Relatives of the elderly should make sure that they are aware of the rules, and that these are correctly interpreted when funding for care is established. 2. Funding can be provided through the Direct Payment Scheme, allowing the individual to make his/her own arrangements for care. Use this tailored to your own requirements. In order to qualify for this, the amount of care you need is assessed, and for more information on this you can obtain a leaflet: Guide to Direct Payments From Local Council, free from the Department of Health. Tel: 0207 972 2000. A fact sheet has also been produced – Paying for Care and Support at Home by Age UK. 3. Be realistic. The number of people over 85 has risen by two thirds since 2004, but local authority budgets for social care are being cut. It is becoming more and more apparent that help in an individual’s later years is, in part, down to their own efforts in preparation and funding. Good sources for information on this is Age UK. 4. Check out private care agencies. If you need help in the home, but are still mobile, this is the perfect stage in your life to establish a relationship with a care agency. Using your Direct Funding, you can assess if this particular agency is efficient, caring and responsible. You can also assess the capability of the agency to provide more long term care, should that become necessary. A reputable Care Agency will have your best interests at heart. You can build up your trust in your Carers, and relax.

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Arranging the care of a loved one can be a complex, time consuming and emotional experience. Failure to seek advice could result in the assets of your loved ones being depleted and the person falling back on the state for their care. The state will provide for those in greatest need but if you have assets of more than £23,250 you may be classed as a ‘self funder’. Unfortunately many families are not aware that specialist advice is available and if sought could result in more efficient funding arrangements. Carematters have 2 key objectives: 1. To ensure that the person needing care can receive that care for the remainder of their lives. 2. To preserve as much of that persons assets as possible. The Carematters team of specialist advisers will work with you to recommend the right financial option for your loved one. There are a number of options open to families, but without the right advice, there is a real risk of the money running out. Many areas of finance merit forward planning and this is no exception. One positive step you can take now is to have a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) drawn up. This allows 44

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Planning ahead for peace of mind Arranging a funeral for a loved one can be a distressing experience for family and friends. Quite often the wishes of the deceased have never been discussed and it is left to grieving relatives to second guess what they may have wanted.

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If you are considering a plan, our funeral arrangers will be happy to guide you through the options. They will go through the details in the same way as any other funeral and will provide you with a written estimate. The cost is based on Austin’s current price list and is fully inclusive. You will receive a draft plan of the arrangements for your approval. There is no rush. You may wish to discuss your wishes with family and friends and any changes can easily be made prior to finalising the plan.

01438 794420

Once you are completely happy, and payment has been made, you will receive a certificate outlining all the details along with copies for your family or solicitor.

www.austins.co.uk

When the time comes your family simply informs us that you have a Hertfordshire Funeral Plan and we will take care of everything.

MO N DAY - F R I DAY O N LY

Planning ahead for peace of mind

How it works

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Frequently asked questions •

Is the plan secure?

Although the Hertfordshire Funeral Plan is operated in conjunction with Austin’s Funeral Service, its fund and administration are protected under an independent trust. A copy of the full Declaration of Trust is available.

•

What happens if I move to a different area?

If you move to an area not serviced by Austin’s, on death, the current value of the plan may be claimed by the local funeral director carrying out the arrangements.

•

Must I be in good health to take out a plan?

No. A Hertfordshire Funeral Plan may be taken out by anyone regardless of age or state of health.

•

Can I change my mind about the arrangements?

Yes. Changes may be made by contacting Austin’s.

•

When do I pay for the plan?

Payment is normally made in full on confirmation of the arrangements. However payment by instalments will be considered, if required.

•

What happens if I die away from home or on holiday?

The plan will cover returning you from anywhere in the United Kingdom, to your home area. Should you die whilst overseas, the plan includes collecting you from any UK port or airport. You should be insured when travelling overseas. The Hertfordshire Funeral Plan can not include charges for air or sea travel.

•

Will the plan completely cover the cost of my funeral?

Yes. Providing that the funeral arrangements are carried out in accordance with the details of your plan, no further charges will be incurred. Your family, or friends may wish however to include additional services not selected by you. These will be charged in accordance with Austin’s current price list.

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Harwood Park

The perfect setting to commemorate the life of your loved one

Crematorium and memorial gardens created and managed by the Austin family in the beautiful Hertfordshire countryside

01438 815555 www.crematorium.co.uk

Keeping memories alive

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