EDITION 27
Retired FEBRUARY - APRIL 2012
& living in Reading, Bracknell & West Berks
Inside ...
MICHAEL ASPEL On how he stepped up to the mike
RICK STEIN Shares his favourite dishes inspired by Flavours of the Med
'New Year, New Teeth with Pentangle Dental Transformations!' THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 55s
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You’re unique. So are we. At Acacia Lodge Care Home, we make sure we put personal relationships first. You’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. Acacia Lodge 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
Acacia Lodge Care Home, in Henley-on-Thames is a purpose built home offering nursing, residential and 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 Acacia Lodge our highly trained staff are leading the way in nursing and dementia care and making a real
C W of are inn th Em er eY p ea loy r 2 er 01 0
“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 Acacia Lodge. 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.” 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.
Acacia Lodge 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 01491 579 100 or email AcaciaLodgeGM@carebase.org.uk.
Nursing, Residential & Dementia Care Quebec Road, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire RG9 1EY
www.acacialodgecarehome.co.uk
Inside... 6-7
S.H.I.N.E S.H.I.N.E Activity Mentors (S.A.M.s)
18-19
22-23
10-11
TRAVEL & LEISURE 6-7
Under The Tuscan Sun
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Falls Prevention Programme Specialist Exercise Sessions
FOOD & DRINK 18-19 Rick Stein Mediterranean Escapes Recipes
INTERVIEW 14-15 Michael Aspel On how he stepped up to the mike.
HEALTH 30-31 Coping with the Winter Months Five Ways to Stay Healthy this Winter.
Are You: Interested in helping to get Older Adults into physical activity: Do you have: Free time during the day?
34-35 Premium Care Setting the standard for private healthcare.
FINANCE 16-17 7/10 People haven't got a Will Are you one of them?
Would you like to: Become a S.H.I.N.E Activity Mentor (S.A.M)
Dear Reader,
The S.H.I.N.E Team will train and support volunteers to become S.H.I.N.E Activity Mentors. This will enable you to help and encourage Older People to become more physically active, more independent and improve their well-being.
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.
For further information on becoming a S.H.I.N.E Activity Mentor you can contact S.H.I.N.E on 0118 9743726 or email shine@wokingham.gov.uk
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 beneďŹ t from free publicity please feel free to let us know and we can consider including it in our next issue.
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McGrath Media. Unit 6 | Moses Gate Workshops Gladys Street | Bolton | BL3 2QG. T: (01204) 796 494 | F: (01204) 791594 e: mcgrathadmin@btconnect.com
Graham Smith has a Tweet But what is he twittering about? There was the Swansea lady who decked out her living room ceiling with 1,700 Christmas baubles. She starts decorating at the end of September and doesn’t usually finish until Christmas Day! You couldn’t make it up could you? Our beleaguered country can always throw up a laugh. Did you see the one about the internet dating sight which was auctioning a date with a busty Virgin Mary or a hunky Joseph! Dogs are always good for a laugh too. A Chinese man, whose name I cannot possibly spell and you couldn’t say it if I did, has a four-year-old Pekingese dog which walks backwards on its hind legs for two kilometres a day. What is the point of that I ask and what does it do when it wants to spend a penny? The mind boggles.
When is it Christmas? If it’s June when you read this don’t worry Christmas isn’t coming any time soon. Astronomers have calculated that Christmas should be in June by charting the “Christmas Star” which the Bible says led the Three Wise Men to Jesus. The have decided that the bright star pinpoints Jesus’ birthday as June 17th rather than December 25th. Well that’s just going to upset a few turkey farmers and artificial snow manufacturers isn’t it?
Lost pussy causes a headache! Those of us of a certain age will remember Mrs Slocombe of the BBC sitcom “Are You Being Served” having various problems with her pussy. They were nothing compared to those of a small village where residents spent the best part of three days digging to rescue a cat whose meowing could be heard clearly. Everyone turned out to help and eventually the animal was found. A large orange plastic moggy with a tape recorded cry which was permanently switched on! Stories like this warm my heart in troubled times. Half the population can’t afford a can of cat food but they will dig for three days to rescue what they thought was a genuine animal in distress.
He should have ducked! An American duck hunter had to be taken to hospital after being shot in the buttocks by his dog!
And what a mess they’ve made of the carol service. How can “snow lay round about, deep and crisp and even”, and what about the poor old beggar bringing in his winter fuel? There’s no holly and ivy, the shepherds can’t be watching their flocks because it’s still day light and I just cannot listen to Bing Crosby in June! Which silly old goat with a white beard and a red suit is going to traipse reindeer and a sleigh about in 20 degrees of heat? I don’t eat sprouts in December so I’m surely not about to in June. “All is calm, all is bright”, well it will be in June, new legislation could mean it’s daylight until four in the morning so the poor little beggar will be throwing his swaddling clothes off and tipping the sheepdog out of the manger.
Why can’t they leave things as they are? I’m dreaming of a White Easter. www.retiredmagazines.co.uk
The hunter was climbing out of his boat to place decoys in nearby marsh when his “excited” dog trod on a shotgun firing 27 pellets into his backside from ten feet. The man managed to walk to a nearby road and call an ambulance and was not seriously injured. He should have ducked. 5
Under the Tuscan Sun
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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. 6
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 www.retiredmagazines.co.uk
T R AV E L 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
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Fit for Life Sessions...
...Be Active in 2012
Badminton, Forest Spa, Keep Fit, Racquetball, Short Mat Bowls, Short Tennis, Squash, Splash Fit, Swimming, Table Tennis, Yoga.
Keep Fit
Easy to follow, exercise to music will keep you feeling healthy, energised and invigorated!
Forest Spa Sauna, Steam Room, Foot Spa, Jacuzzi, Saunarium, Hot Tub, Feature Showers and relaxation lounge
FREE SWIM at Bracknell Leisure Centre for every Retired magazine reader. Come on in...we have 2 pools and the water’s lovely. Terms & Conditions apply.
Simply bring this voucher and redeem it at reception. Offer valid for any Public Session until 31st March 2012
Reception Flex code: WRP
. .. u o Y w e N , r a e Y w Ne
Timetables and Prices
TERM TiME ‘FiT FOR LiFE’ SESSiOnS Day Time Activities available Forest Spa Mon 1.30pm-3.30pm 1.45pm-2.45pm Yoga, Swimming 2.00pm-3.00pm Dancercise 2.00pm-3.30pm Badminton, Short Tennis Forest Spa, Badminton, Squash, Racquetball, Table Tennis Tues 9.30am-12noon Keep Fit Wed 9.30am-10.15am 9.30am-10.30am Yoga 9.30am-12noon Forest Spa, Badminton, Squash, Racquetball, Table Tennis, Short Tennis, Short Mat Bowls 10.30am-11.30am Yoga 10.30am-12noon Swimming 12noon-12.30pm Splash Fit Swimming, Forest Spa Thurs 1.30pm-3.30pm 10.00am-12noon Forest Spa Fri 11.00am -12noon Swimming Prices Over 50’s £4.05 (members) £5.90 (non members) Over 60’s £2.75 (members) £4.05 (non members) BOdYWORKS FiTnESS ROOM Day Time Mon 6.30am-9.00am and 2.00pm-4.00pm Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Prices
6.30am-12noon 6.30am-9.00am 6.30am-9.00am and 2.00pm-4.00pm 6.30am-9.00am and 12.00noon-2.00pm 11.00am-1.00pm 12.00noon-2.00pm Over 60’s £2.75 (members) £4.05 (non members)
Concessions Concessions available for Over 60’s in the Gym. Come and get a personalised fitness programme
Bracknell Leisure Centre Bagshot Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 9SE
Tel:
01344 454203
email: blc.enquiries@bracknell-forest.gov.uk
www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be
Bracknell Leisure Centre provides a wide range of activities for Over 50’s keeping you ‘Fit for Life’. From Badminton to Yoga there’s something to suit everyone so come shape up and socialise.
Could it be time to take to the floor? Dancing can be wonderful to watch, but joining in really does you good, Strictly legends Ann Widdecombe and Anton du Beke tell James Pringle
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trictly Come Dancing stars Ann Widdecombe and Anton du Beke are leading the way in helping thousands of older people to dance their way to better health. Less than 10 per cent of over-75s get enough exercise, according to a new report by care home provider Bupa. Even in the 65-74 age group, that figure is under 20 per cent. The report concludes that dancing, no matter how gentle, is beneficial to the health, fitness and emotional wellbeing of older people. It improves co-ordination, reaction times, muscle endurance, flexibility, gait and strength – which all reduce the risk of falls. It can also play a part in the prevention or treatment of conditions as diverse as dementia, arthritis and Parkinson’s disease. Bupa’s Shall We Dance? campaign is urging policy-makers to pay special attention to dance when looking at ways to promote fitness in older people. It’s also encouraging dancers, dance troupes and dance teachers – of any style – to contact their local Bupa care home to share their passion for dance by performing for residents or offering dance classes to people who have a range of mobility issues. Residents and staff from three of company’s Kent homes – The Sidcup Nursing & Residential Centre and Abbotsleigh Mews Residential & Nursing Home, both in Sidcup, and Elmstead Residential Home in Chislehurst – attended the campaign launch in London at the National Theatre. They were welcomed by Bupa Care Services medical director Dr Clive Bowman and took to the floor with the Strictly stars after the former government minister and her professional dance partner had given a demonstration. Anton told Retired: “This campaign is a great initiative. When you get to a certain age it’s easy to do nothing,
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but the thing about dance is that it’s very social. It gets you involved with lots of different people of a similar age and you can dance at your own pace – you don’t have to do it too fast. It’s great for the mind and body, but to me it’s the social interaction that’s important. “I love to dance socially. I enjoy the whole element of taking hold of a girl and having a bit of a dance around, whether she can dance or not. It’s terrific fun.
PIC CAPTION: Elmstead Home’s Kathleen McIlroy and Clifford Morgan from the Sidcup Centre partner up with Anton du Beke and Ann Widdecombe.
“Often I hear stories like: ‘Fifteen years ago my wife passed away and last year I went on a cruise and met Doris, we had a dance and we’re together now. We’re getting married next year, and I’m 84.’ That’s brilliant!” Nobody should worry that they are not as agile as they once were, Anton believes. You can do as much or as little as you like, at any speed, and if you have a partner, you can hold onto them. “Don’t feel you’ve got to do it wonderfully,” he stressed. “Just do it for your own enjoyment.” Anne Widdecombe added: “When you’re my age [63] you do quite a lot. I walk, I swim and a lot of people my age still play quite active sports. In 20 years’ time that’s not going to be quite so feasible, but you still need to keep all the bits and pieces moving – and that includes the brain. “With dancing you can move at your own pace, whatever suits you. Because you have to remember a routine and know which step comes after what, it keeps the brain active – and it keeps you sociable, because you can’t really dance on your own.
“It’s a great way for the elderly to keep a little bit in trim. I don’t think anybody’s going to worry about making fools of themselves – they’re not going to do what I did on television in front of eight million people! Anyway, most people are quite confident, they’ve seen it all before. “While I was doing Strictly, people kept coming up to me and saying ‘You’ve inspired me to take up dancing’, and some of them were well beyond my age.” Perpetual motion for dancing stars After last year’s Strictly series, Anton and his regular partner, Erin Boag, went on their third national tour and they are now planning a show for mid-January to late March 2012. Tour titles to date, Cheek to Cheek, Stepping Out and Putting on the Ritz, identify Fred Astaire as a major inspiration. “I love him,” said Anton. “Everything we do is a nod in his direction.” These days he and Erin cannot find time for ballroom dancing competitions. “I miss them. I miss that level of dancing, that intensity and that drive to meet the next man. www.retiredmagazines.co.uk
I enjoyed the competitive side of things.” Anton’s Strictly success has seen him branch out into TV presenting, with the shows Step Up to the Plate and Hole in the Wall. “Hole in the Wall was just hysterical. I don’t think we’ll see it any more, sadly. I wish they’d bring it back, because it’s fun. Half an hour of nonsense and we loved doing it.” Other programmes are in discussion and Anton hopes there will be more opportunities. Meanwhile, he looks forward to this year’s series of Strictly. Many viewers were surprised when former Westminster big hitter Ann Widdecombe joined the 2010 lineup. “All the time I was a politician, it would not have been appropriate,” she said, “and that is why I turned down Strictly every year from 2004 to 2009. “I wouldn’t have had time and, in terms of dignity, I couldn’t have done it as an MP. My constituents would not have expected it and I wouldn’t have done it to them. But
once I retired there was no obligation to conduct myself as if I was still a Member of Parliament. I can do anything now!” Ann’s harshest critic during the TV series was judge Craig Revel Horwood. For the live national tour of the show, someone came up with the masterstroke of making Craig and Ann dance partners.
thousands and the reaction is just overwhelming. “I danced every day for five weeks, and twice a day when we were doing matinees.”
“Oh it was such fun!” said Ann. “We both enjoyed it so much that we’re doing pantomime together in December.”
Ann confessed that she was never a serious competitive dancer on Strictly. “I was doing a pantomime act. On day one, Anton said to me: ‘The less time you spend with your feet on the floor, the better’. Hence all the lifting, spinning, dragging, flying – anything to avoid actually doing the steps!
For a moment, your reporter thought she was joking, but it’s true. The unlikely pair will be appearing at Dartford’s Orchard Theatre in Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. Ann will be lady-in-waiting to the Wicked Queen, played by Craig.
“The flying was Anton’s bright idea. I said to him: ‘We’ve got to do something, because I’m never going to win on dancing. He said: ‘Fly off the balcony’. I’ve got terrible height phobia, but I did understand the potential, so I flew off the balcony.”
“We enjoyed the tour so much,” Ann added. “We were getting a huge reaction from huge audiences. Sure, when you do it on television you’ve got millions of viewers, but you can’t see ’em. All you can see is quite a small studio audience. But when you’re playing Wembley and the O2, you’re stacking up tens of
Once Snow White is over, Ann will be ensconced in her study. “My agent is very keen that I reapply myself to my writing. I haven’t had a novel out since 2005 and I need to get one out next year. And I’ve got an autobiography to write. So I really do need to apply myself to my word processor.”
Falls Prevention Programme Steady Steps is a Falls Prevention Exercise Programme for people aged 60 and over who have fallen or who are at risk of falling. The Specialist Exercise Sessions are designed to improve: • Balance • Co-ordination • Muscle Strength • Confidence • Well Being Participants will need to be referred onto the programme via their GP.
For more information on Steady Steps please contact the Steady Steps Co-ordinator on 0118 9746265 or email: Steady.steps@wokingham.gov.uk
www.retiredmagazines.co.uk
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S.H.I.N.E Some Health Improvements Need Exercise Over 50’s Physical Activity Programme Wokingham Borough Council is working hard to ensure the Over 50’s across the borough have the opportunity to begin and continue to remain physically active. There are a number of benefits to participating in physical activity, including a better quality of life, a healthy lifestyle, making new friends and enjoying yourself.
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S.H.I.N.E Classes Include: • Tai Chi • Seated Exercise to Music • Line Dancing
Latino Dance Nordic Walking Pilates Activity Mentors
Gym and Swim Offer Wokingham Borough Council S.H.I.N.E Team have been working with Leisure Connection to provide great rates for S.H.I.N.E Members to use the gym and swimming pool facilities at the following Leisure Centres: Carnival Pool Wellington Road Wokingham RG40 2AF
St Crispins Leisure Centre London Road Wokingham RG40 1SR
Loddon Valley Leisure Centre Rushey Way Lower Earley RG6 4GD
Activity
Day
Time
Location
Gym
Monday - Friday
10am - 12 noon
St Crispins
Gym
Monday - Friday
10am - 12 noon
Carnival Pool
Swim
Monday & Friday
2pm - 3pm
Loddon Valley Leisure Centre
Swim
Tuesday - Thursday
2pm - 3pm
Carnival Pool
Swim
Wednesday
9.30am - 10.30am
Carnival Pool
You will receive a free induction to the gym S.H.I.N.E Price £1.80 per session (September 2011 - March 2012) Swimming Lessons Swimming Lessons for non swimmers are available during the swimming sessions above with a qualified instructor. Lessons are £3.00 each time you attend.
For further information and to register your interest please contact Physical Acitivity Co-ordinator on 0118 9743726 or email shine@wokingham.gov.uk
It is never too late to learn in West Berkshire
residents over the age of 60 years and works with specialist providers to deliver courses to specific learner groups such as local carers, adults in isolated communities, adults with disabilities and elderly residents in care homes and day centres.
Every year thousands of West Berkshire residents aged over 50 years participate in courses to learn new skills, develop hobbies, meet new people or to improve their health. It is now widely accepted by education, health and government professionals that learning brings real benefits to adults at each stage of their lives. Whether it is learning to dance, use a computer, speak a foreign language or repair a car the benefits of learning can be substantial:
In addition to Council supported provision West Berkshire residents can access learning through voluntary self help groups such as the University of the 3rd Age (U3A) which has branches in Newbury and Thatcham, IT provision through the Silver Surfers programme in libraries across the region and local history groups through West Berkshire Museum,
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Improves memory Increases self-confidence Offers an inexpensive way to try something new Saves money as you learn to “do it yourself” Gives you a feeling of accomplishment Helps you meet people who share your interests Builds on skills you already have Offers an opportunity to learn a new skill or trade and increase your income Gives you a new interest that you can share with family and friends Brings closer links with the local community
In West Berkshire it is never too late to learn something new and there is a lot of choice about what you can learn, the speed at which you learn, the way you learn and where and when you learn. Supported by West Berkshire Council there are a wide range of courses delivered by local colleges, schools, Children’s Centres, voluntary groups, charities, private organisations and individuals which are aimed at residents over the age of 50 years. The Council also provides course concessions for ACL_50plus_ad_190x125:Layout 1
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Newbury College, West Berkshire’s only further education college, delivers both leisure courses and a range of qualification provision in subjects such as volunteering, plumbing and car maintenance. There are also courses in art history delivered by the Workers Education Association; local community development workshops provided by the Community Council of Berkshire, higher education through the Open University and an extensive range of clubs, societies and private classes delivered in community venues across the area. West Berkshire Councillor Irene Neill, Portfolio Holder for Children and Young People, said that she is delighted that there are so many opportunities for adults to learn throughout West Berkshire. Councillor Neill goes on to say “Learning enriches lives, it gives people a purpose and it is essential to the well being of our society. Older people in West Berkshire have never had so much choice and flexibility in deciding what to learn and I am pleased that the Government realises the benefits and continues to support adult learning”. For more information on learning opportunities in West Berkshire contact the Adult & Community Learning team on 01635 42400.
Something for Everyone Do you want to develop an interest, lear n a new skill and meet new people? We work with a number of local organisations to provide a range of courses and activities in over 40 different venues across West Berkshire. Concessions available to all West Berkshire residents aged over 60 years *Digital Photography * Languages * Arts & Crafts * Creative Writing * Yoga *Family History * Gardening * Plumbing * Italian Cookery and much more. ALSO - The Community Laptop Project small IT classes taught in convenient local venues Call 01635 42400 and ask for the Adult & Community Learning Team or visit www.westberks.gov.uk/adulteducation
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 14
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 Radio. www.retiredmagazines.co.uk
I N T E RV I E W “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.”
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 Life, his laid-back style contrasted the anxious
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Up to 7/10 people haven’t got a will, or a will that really works for them
ARE YOU ONE OF THEM?
H
ow often have you had a job to do but simply put it off until another day? When it comes to making a will, all too often people put it off again and again. Sometimes people simply leave it too late and their families and loved ones are left to pick up the pieces. Making a simple will need not be complicated or expensive. More complicated wills, particularly those dealing with Inheritance Tax, do require more advice and time, and cost more but where your finances and the security of your family and others close to you is in issue, it can be some of the best time and money that you will ever have spent. Wills are wonderful instruments and can achieve a huge amount, often saving you tens or even hundreds or thousands of pounds. Some people do not want to make a will because planning for death can seem morbid, or can feel like tempting fate. Once the will is made though, it often gives a sense of closure, and of a job well done. Your wishes are set out and the entitlements of your family and others will be clear for all to see and understand. Whilst it is important that everyone has a will, making a will does not mean simply scribbling your wishes down on a piece of paper. Homemade wills can be a disaster.
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They can leave your family and others you care for with even more of a headache and possible expense as many homemade wills are invalid or ineffective. These traumas can be avoided by taking proper advice on how to put your affairs in order. Solicitors are trained, regulated and insured and can provide the advice that you need at a reasonable price. They also have a broad depth of general legal knowledge which helps spot and avoid other problems or consequences that a non qualified person with limited training might miss. There are a number of myths about what happens to your property when you die. Myths such as ‘my wife will receive everything anyway’ and ‘we are common law husband and wife so are entitled to each other’s property’ are simply not true. Unfortunately, if through relying on these myths you haven’t made a will, your family and others, particularly those that you expected to receive everything, may be sorely disappointed. If you do not leave a will, arbitrary statutory intestacy rules will decide how your estate (your property, money and possessions, after your debts are paid) will be shared out. Your surviving husband, wife or civil partner will only be entitled to the first £250,000 known as the ‘statutory legacy’, with the rest going into a trust ultimately for other members of the family. With house prices the way they are at the moment, the £250,000 to your surviving spouse might not even be enough to ensure that they can keep the matrimonial home. If you make a will you can leave everything to your surviving husband, wife or civil partner to make sure that they will indeed ‘receive everything’. Alternatively you can protect assets for the benefit of your children, which
might otherwise disappear in the survivor’s long term care costs, by the use of flexible life interest trusts which make the estate of the first of you to die available to the other, on controlled terms, including guaranteeing security of occupation in the family home for as long as is required. Again, just how wonderful wills can be, in terms of what they can achieve. When it comes to ‘common law husband or wife’, there is no such thing. It is unclear where this concept arose from but it simply does not exist. Only people who are legally married or who have formed a civil partnership will be classed as a husband, wife or civil partner and only they can enjoy the benefits of automatically inheriting part of their spouse’s estate. If you are not married or have not formed a civil partnership, no matter how long you have lived together and regardless of whether you have children, you have no automatic right to any part of your partner’s estate. You would have to go to court to claim part of the estate, and this will come with the usual costs in terms of time and expense. If you live with someone and you want them to benefit from your estate, you must make a will. Children are another reason why it is important to make a will. If a disaster happens, who will look after your children? A will enables you to appoint guardians for your children in case both of their parents die before they are 18. You can also set out specific gifts to your children, either of money or certain items that they might otherwise squabble over. If you are married for a second time and have children from previous relationships, it is essential that you make a will. If you were to die first and your estate is below the ‘statutory legacy’ then everything you own will pass to your surviving (second) spouse. On their death, their estate, including their inheritance from you, will pass
to their beneficiaries, e.g. to their children. There is no guarantee that your children will receive anything at all and they will have no absolute right to anything, even keepsakes and mementos. This can cause upset for your children and bitterness towards your second spouse. We at Hewetts can advise you on how to provide for your spouse but still protect your property for your children. If you have recently separated but have not actually divorced, the statutory legacy will still apply until the divorce is finalised (decree absolute). If you want your estate to pass to someone else then you must make a will. Your estate will not automatically pass to your children or other people you want to benefit. Likewise if you already have a will but want to make changes to it, those changes will only take effect when you write a new will. Simply telling people your wishes is not enough.
If you have complicated assets or complicated family circumstances, such as disabled children or a significant estate, it is essential that you take proper advice and make a will so that your wider family can be protected and your assets be preserved as far as possible. Careful planning of your will and your assets can help to settle your affairs in the most tax efficient way, which can leave your family and those close to you with more money in the long term. Your will can give you peace of mind. It can allow you to put your affairs in order and you will know that your wishes are noted in a formal document that is legally binding. You
It is also vital to realise that marriage or re-marriage normally automatically revokes any pre-existing will - leaving you unwittingly very exposed.
can make a final statement to your family and others about how much they mean to you and what you would like to thank them for. Leaving a valid will protects your family from any added stress or upset at a difficult time in their lives. Even if you have already made a will, is it up to date? Wills today are often much more sophisticated and can achieve so very much more. You should keep your will under review and make sure you look at it at least every five years, You do not need to re-write your will each time but if your will no longer does what you want it to do, this must be rectified, either by making a new will, or adding a codicil.
Do ring us at Hewetts, on the number below, to discuss any of these issues asking for me Robin Gambles or for Tim Butcher. Our first half hour or so of advice will always be free and will give you a good idea of what you will be able to achieve and at what sort of cost.
Hewetts are an old established firm with a modern and progressive outlook, whose private client department sees an ever growing need to channel their legal energy to identifying and looking after the needs of the retired and elderly. Anyone over 50 should be anticipating both the opportunities and the problems, and plan accordingly by: • • • • • • • • •
wills to benefit your family in the most tax efficient way wills to protect your children where you may have remarried planning inheritance tax savings and protection of assets benefiting your family in your lifetime lasting powers of attorney both for property and affairs and personal welfare long term care arrangements ascertaining whether the NHS should pay for your care instead of being self funded co-ownership and "live-in" care arrangements with family equity release arrangements
55-57 Lo ndon S Reading treet, RG1 4PS
For further information contact Robin Gambles on 0118 955 9617
Email r.gambles@hewetts.co.uk Website www.hewetts.co.uk
F O OD
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D RI 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 three of Rick’s favourite recipes inspired by flavours of the Med.
SERVES 8-10 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for serving 1 large onion, chopped 5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1 large leek, cleaned and cut into similar-sized pieces 250g dried borlotti beans, soaked overnight 450g waxy potatoes, such as Charlotte, peeled and cut into 1- cm dice 250g peeled carrots, cut into 1-cm dice 2 celery sticks, cut into 1- cm dice 1 ripe beef tomato, skinned and chopped Leaves from 1 small rosemary sprig, finely chopped 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1.2kg smoked ham hock 250g green beans, trimmed and cut into 1- cm pieces 2 medium-sized courgettes, topped and tailed and cut into 1- cm dice 1/2 small cabbage (about 500g), core removed, thinly sliced 75g dried tagliatelle, broken into 5-cm pieces 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano A small handful of flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Minestra: Corsican Vegetable Soup with Smoked Ham, Cabbage and Borlotti Beans Heat the oil in a really large pan, add the onion, garlic and leek, and cook gently for 3-4 minutes. Drain the soaked beans and add to the pan with the potatoes, carrots, celery, tomato, rosemary, dried oregano and 2 litres of water. Cut the ham hock in half lengthways to one side of the bone, add to the pan and press the pieces down well into the soup so they are totally submerged. Bring everything to a simmer and leave to cook, uncovered, for 1 hour. Then add the green beans, courgettes, cabbage, tagliatelle pieces and fresh oregano and simmer for a further 15-20 minutes until the soup is thick. Remove the pieces of ham hock, pull the meat off the bone, and pull it into small chunks. Discard the skin and bone. Stir the ham back into the soup with the parsley and approximately 500 ml more hot water to loosen it slightly and season with salt and pepper. Service in large warmed soup bowls, drizzled with a little more olive oil.
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SERVES 4 400g dried spaghetti 175-g piece smoked pancetta, rind removed 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped A handful of flat-leaf parsley leaves, finely chopped 3 large eggs, beaten 50g finely grated pecorino sardo maturo Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Spaghetti Alla Carbonara: Pasta with Pecorino Sardo, Pancetta, Parsley and Eggs Bring 4.5 litres water to the boil in a large saucepan with 8 teaspoons salt. Add the spaghetti and cook for 9 minutes or until al dente. Meanwhile, cut the pancetta into lardons (short little strips), about 6mm wide. Heat a large, deep frying pan over a medium-high heat, add the oil and the pancetta and allow it to fry until lightly golden. Add the garlic and parsley and cook for a few seconds, then remove from the heat and set to one side. Drain the spaghetti well, tip into the frying pan with the pancetta, garlic and parsley, add the beaten eggs and half the grated pecorino cheese and toss together well. Season to taste with a little salt and black pepper. The heat from the spaghetti will be sufficient to partly cook the egg but still leave it moist and creamy. Take to the table and serve in warmed pasta bowls, sprinkled with the rest of the cheese.
SERVES 6-8 2 x 1-kg shoulders of lamb, each one cut into 3 large chunks through the bone (get your butcher to do this) 2kg waxy maincrop potatoes, such as Desiree, peeled and cut into 5-6cm chunks 1 head of garlic, outside papery skins removed, cut in half through the middle 1 tablespoon dried oregano, Greek if possible 3-6 fresh bay leaves 2 tablespoons fresh oregano or marjoram leaves 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling Juice of 2 large lemons Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Kleftiko: Slow-cooked Lamb with Garlic, Oregano, Lemon and Potatoes Preheat the oven to 1900C/Gas Mark 5. Combine the meat, potatoes and garlic in a large ovenproof casserole dish. Sprinkle with the dried and fresh herbs, olive oil, lemon juice, 100ml water, 2 teaspoons of salt and plenty of black pepper and mix together well, then nestle the pieces of meat down in among the potatoes. Drizzle with a little more oil. Cover the casserole tightly with foil and a well-fitting lid and bake for 3 hours until the meat is falling off the bone. However, check after a couple of hours to make sure it doesn’t need a little more water. www.retiredmagazines.co.uk
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JOIN TODAY AND discover the secret 62 MILLION PEOPLE WORLDWIDE ALREADY KNOW
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CASH & CARRY MEMBERSHIP WAREHOUSE CLUB
Did you know, as a
Retired Employee you may qualify for Costco Membership? Costco is a membership warehouse club that sells a wide selection of top quality brand name merchandise at low warehouse prices. Speciality departments include Fresh Deli and Produce, In-House Bakery and Butchery, Service Deli, Cafe, Tyre Centre, Opticians, Fine Wines, Beers and Spirits, Electrical Appliances and much much more! Individual Membership You qualify for Individual Membership if you belong to specific employment groups – please see below for details of qualifying categories. To join Costco and start saving please provide your employee ID card or current pay slip to prove your employer, PLUS a current utility bill (electricity, gas, telephone, water) or a bank statement addressed to your home. The annual membership fee for Standard Individual Membership is £25 (plus VAT), which includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner. The annual membership fee for Executive Individual Membership is £55 (plus VAT), which also includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner. Executive Individuals earn a 2% Reward on most purchases up to a maximum of £300 per year, and receive this in their annual renewal notice, to use against goods in the warehouse. Individual Members Eligibility Criteria Retired employee of: Banking/Finance, Civil Servant, Education, Fire/Rescue, Insurance, Local Government, Medical/Health Service, Police Force, Post Office, Airline. You can join online: visit www.costco.co.uk/membership
For membership queries, or for further information about Costco please contact the Membership Team at Costco Reading:
Call 0118 920 7100 or email marketing114@costco.co.uk
Accepted methods of payment: cash, cheque, debit card or American Express. Membership must be obtained before purchases can be made.
Costco Reading 100 South Oak Way, Green Park Reading Berks RG2 6UE T: 0118 920 7100 E: marketing114@costco.co.uk Central Membership: 01923 830 477 www.costco.co.uk
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 – Control Your Heating Costs
In the era of cheap gas and oil nobody questioned central heating systems. Does it make sense now? If you want to heat your bathroom up for half an hour in the morning, firing up a full central heating system seems a wasteful option. Given recent fuel price hikes, watching a dvd in the lounge with the heat blasting away round the entire house seems crazy. With wet central heating systems we also tend to ignore the high maintenance, replacement costs and servicing.
German and Scandinavian households are turning to long life modular electric heating. Using specialist German radiators, one hundred per cent of the heat can be placed in the room or rooms that are being used, allowing unused rooms to be unheated or placed on very low heat. This means that you have much better control of your heating costs.
www.germanelectricheaters.com
At Last! A NEW FORM OF HEATING FROM GERMANY Simple to install, Powerful, and no more servicing - EVER!
In Germany and Austria it can get as low as -20, even -30ºC and a single snowfall can be as much as 3ft or more overnight. To deal with this severe cold they need powerful heating able to cope with sub zero temperatures and sudden climate change. They need excellent control and above all - low running costs without the need for constant servicing and replacement parts. The solution, incredibly... is electric!
Bus to town this winter! This incredible heating could be the answer to help beat ever increasing energy costs and amazingly, it is not gas or oil, or solid fuel - but clean electric! All you need is standard supply and NO
special tariff like economy 7. All over Europe more people are choosing to heat their homes and offices with this very special form of electric heating in preference to oil gas or E7. In our area, more and more of our customers are making that same decision and when you see this incredible heating for yourself you could be next! The heating looks just like conventional radiators, but STOP! it is very different! Put simply, that clunky central heating boiler needing constant servicing and replacement parts isn’t the only choice anymore! Now you can heat your homes, offices, extensions or conservatories with these incredible heaters providing individual control over every room without the need for a central control or wasted boiler space. This incredible German heating simply plugs in! Job Done! You can do just one room or the whole house! This heating, whilst quite NEW in the UK has been mainstream for a very long time in
Germany and Austria. Sunflow Ltd. offer a complete solution which can include disposing of your old central heating system, even oil tanks! Discover for yourself this incredible German heating.
Get your FREE brochure by calling our 24hr Brochure Line on: 0800 158 8270 or email: info@sunflowltd.co.uk Replacement Service Sunflow can take the worry out of disposing of old central heating systems. We have a package price that includes the safe and certificated removal of oil, lpg and gas systems, even old oil tanks! Questions? Call Suzanne on 0800 158 8272
A ReAl AlteRnAtive to oil/GAs HeAtinG - Ask About ouR ReplAcement seRvice www.retiredmagazines.co.uk
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Pentangle Dental Transformations Who are we? Rob Oretti and Steve Jones are two of the best known dentists in Newbury, having been working in the town for 41 years between them. In 2006 they opened Pentangle Dental Transformations, a practice fitted with state of the art equipment designed for 21st century dentistry. Most of their work involves replacing dentures with fixed teeth, or using modern techniques to avoid dentures altogether. The practice receives referrals from over one hundred local dentists each year and has rapidly become the largest provider of these dental implant services in the Thames Valley.
SpeedySmile – What is it? Teeth can last a lifetime but the harsh reality is that for many people they may not. Tooth decay and gum disease can lead to the loss of many teeth over the years and eventually the remaining teeth may not be sturdy enough to support fixed bridgework. Eventually there appears to be no choice but to have a removable denture of some sort. Millions of people still have dentures, but they will all tell you they move when they eat and many people resort to gluing them in every single day with ‘fixative’. However we are fortunate to live in the 21st century and there is now an alternative. SpeedySmile takes the proven concepts of dental implants supporting fixed teeth to a new level of efficiency, speed and comfort.
www.speedysmile.co.uk 24
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If you have sufficient jaw bone this can mean that a single tooth can be replaced with a dental implant, pillar and crown for as little as £1995. Several teeth on two implants would typically cost about £4995 and a whole set of acrylic teeth on four dental implants might cost as little as £7995. Staged payments are possible. Upgrading to more robust metal or porcelain materials in the future will add to these costs but the basic principle of avoiding a removable denture is achieved in one fitting.
Teeth out, fixed bridge in, same day. There are no hidden extras.
Can we help you? Phone us on 01635 550353 to talk to our friendly reception staff. You will need to come in and talk with us and will need to have a 3-D scan of your jaw before a precise plan can be made to fit your requirements. This will cost £175. Quote SpeedySmile when you call. Free parking is available at the practice directly, behind Debenhams at the new Parkway shopping centre.
Pentangle Dental Transformations, Park Street, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 6QN. Tel: 01635 550353.
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W H A T
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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.
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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
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HOME
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,
bo Mood and sample
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.
ards
CARPETS, FINISHES AND OPTIONS.
We’ve all heard horror stories of missed completion dates, shoddy workmanship and nerves at screaming point over incorrect fittings and soaring costs. A 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.
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. 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.” “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.” www.retiredmagazines.co.uk
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“Living in Bracknell Forest Homes’ sheltered accommodation is the best move I have made.” Bracknell Forest Homes is a housing association which owns and manages around 5,600 rented homes, including 400 sheltered housing flats, as well as 1,100 leaseholder properties. Bracknell Forest Homes is in the top nine per cent of inspected housing associations after being accredited by the Audit Commission with two stars and excellent prospects for improvement. Bracknell Forest Homes’ sheltered housing schemes provide a friendly, safe and secure environment where residents enjoy their independence, privacy and company of other residents as they wish. It is ideal for older people who need smaller, more manageable accommodation, with the reassurance that help and support is always available.
Residents say: "Moving to sheltered housing is their best move, benefitting from security, companionship and support." Sheltered housing is completely independent and varies from studio flats to one bedroom flats and some bungalows. All accommodation is unfurnished, so residents are able to furnish and decorate to their own taste. Each sheltered scheme has experienced and committed staff who provide support and advice. They also assist in arranging any other services residents may need to help them live independently. There is also an active sheltered scheme resident association who meet regularly with Bracknell Forest Homes, and there’s a variety of social activities if residents wish to join in.
Many schemes have benefitted from Bracknell Forest Homes’ improvement plans, including new hairdressing rooms, new windows, new heating, landscaped communal gardens and other refurbishments.
If you are interested in our sheltered schemes please call us on 01344 382909 or freephone 0800 692 3000. Please visit www.bracknellforesthomes.org.uk for more information and maps.
Sheltered housing is provided for older people who need smaller and more manageable accommodation. Accommodation is completely independent and varies from studio ats, one bed ats and some bungalows. All accommodation is unfurnished so customers are able to take familiar items.
Facilities include: l Self contained accommodation l Communal lounge for social activities and relaxing with other residents l Gardens l Guest rooms for friends or relatives to stay l On site scheme manager l 24 hour emergency assistance l Close to local amenities l Activities and social clubs l Hairdressing salons l Laundry rooms
"This move has been the best I have made. The security and companionship is great and there is support as I need it." "I feel very secure and free to lead my own life in my scheme." "Moving to a sheltered scheme has been a very enjoyable experience, offering a little extra support and socialising with other residents. I am very happy." "I downsized my property and moved to sheltered housing which suits me better."
Who to talk to if you are interested in sheltered housing Please contact us for further details. We can advise you how to apply for a property using the council's application system at www.bfcmychoice.org.uk
Bracknell Forest Homes 01344 382909 or freephone 0800 692 3000 www.bracknellforesthomes.org.uk
HEALTH
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.
Five Ways To Stay Healthy This Winter It may be cold outside but winter needn't be the unhealthiest time of year for you and your family. Here are five ways to make sure that even when your body is telling you to hibernate you can keep healthy and fit, no matter what the weather's like:
Eliminate your sleep debt
"On average we sleep six-and-a-half hours a night, much less than the seven to nine hours recommended," says Jessica Alexander, spokesperson at the Sleep Council, which aims to raise awareness of the importance of a good night's sleep to health and wellbeing. But in winter, we naturally sleep more, due to the longer nights. "It’s perfectly natural to adopt hibernating habits when the weather turns cold," says Jessica. "Use the time to catch up."
Drink more milk
You are 80% more likely to get a cold in winter so making sure your immune system is in tip-top condition is important. Milk and dairy products such as cheese, yoghurt and fromage frais are great sources of protein and vitamins A and B12. They're also an important source of calcium, which helps keep our bones strong. Try to go for semi-skimmed or skimmed milk, rather than full fat, and low-fat yoghurts.
Eat more fruit and vegetables
When it’s cold and dark outside it can be tempting to fill up on unhealthy comfort food, but it’s important to ensure that you still keep your diet healthy and include five portions of fruit and veg a day. If you find yourself craving a sugary treat, try a juicy clementine or satsuma instead, or sweet dried fruits such as dates or raisins. Winter vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, swede and turnips can be roasted, mashed or made into soup for a comforting winter meal for the whole family.
Try new activities for the whole family
Don’t use the cold winter months as an excuse to stay in and lounge around. Instead, get out with the whole family to try out a new activity, maybe ice-skating or taking a bracing winter walk on the beach. Regular exercise helps to control your weight, boost your immune system and is a good way to break the tension that can build if the family is constantly cooped up inside the house.
Have a hearty breakfast
Winter is the perfect season for porridge. Eating a warm bowlful on a cold morning isn’t just a delicious way to start your day, it also helps you to boost your intake of starchy foods and fibre, which give you energy and help you to feel fuller for longer, stopping the temptation to snack mid-morning. Oats also contain lots of vital vitamins and minerals. www.retiredmagazines.co.uk
Asthma In The Cold Cold weather can have a serious impact on the 5.4 million people with asthma in the UK. According to Asthma UK, three quarters of people with asthma say that cold air is a trigger for their symptoms and 90% reckon that having a cold or flu makes their asthma considerably worse. Cher Piddock, a nurse for Asthma UK says: “Hospital admissions for asthma traditionally peak during periods of particularly cold weather. This can be due to breathing cold air into the lungs which can in turn trigger asthma, as well as picking up colds and flu. “People whose asthma is well-controlled are more likely to be able to withstand the risks of winter months and you can help keep your asthma under control by making sure you have a regular asthma review with your doctor or asthma nurse and that you have a personal asthma action plan.”
Five tips for preventing cold weather asthma symptoms... Asthma UK has this advice on how to control your asthma symptoms during the cold weather: 1. Keep taking your regular preventer medicines as prescribed by your doctor. 2. If you know that cold air triggers your asthma, take one or two puffs of your reliever inhaler before going outside. 3. Keep your blue reliever inhaler with you at all times. 4. Wrap up well and wear a scarf over your nose and mouth – this will help to warm up the air before you breathe it in. 5. Take extra care when exercising in cold weather. Warm up for 10–15 minutes and take one or two puffs of your reliever inhaler before you start.
Asthma attacks With the onset of very cold weather, it’s a good idea to make sure you and your friends and family know what to do if you have an asthma attack. The key signs are - coughing more than usual, getting short of breath, wheezing, feeling a tightness in your chest and having difficulty speaking in full sentences. You can find more information by visiting www.nhs.uk/ livewell or calling Asthma UK on 0800 121 6244.
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A Guide to Dentures ....
The Importance of Dentures
Choice of Dentures
The eyes, nose and teeth are the focal points of every face; they give the first impressions of your personality.
There are three main quality standards in denture materials:
Natural teeth grow in proportion and in harmony with your facial features and your dentures should be made accordingly. Your teeth, or your dentures, have many important functions: to support your facial muscles, to help formulate your speech, and most importantly to chew your food and start the digestive process. It is very important to chew food properly, as poorly chewed food will take longer to digest, especially for the elderly who could risk problems in the digestive system.
Difficulties in Constructing a Good Set of Dentures Constructing a functional and aesthetically pleasing set of dentures is the most difficult task in dentistry. We are not only replacing lost teeth, but also lost tissue matter and bone. In other words, we have to re-create your facial features as they were before the loss of your natural teeth. In most cases we do not know what your teeth looked like, what size they were or what position they were in originally. We have a few indications but mostly we have to rely on our visual and artistic judgement. At the same time we have to use our technical expertise in order to make the denture stable and functional. Denture construction is more art than science. 32
Denture Base Acrylics: standard quality, high impact much stronger non brittle and the latest thermoplastic. Denture Teeth: 2-layer acrylic very basic and cheap, 3-layer acrylic re-enforced much harder, 4-layer composite extra hard and natural looking. However, good materials on their own will not make good dentures. A skilful and experienced clinician and technician are required. The best results are achieved when the whole job is done by the same person.
Removal Partial Dentures It was long thought that removable partial dentures had to be rigid to be effective. The innovation of the Valpast flexible partial denture allows the appliance to adapt to the constant movement and flexibility in your mouth. The preparation is relatively simple as your natural teeth don’t need to be altered. The Valpast flexible partial denture is virtually invisible, no telltale metal clasps and the material itself blends with the tissue in your mouth so that the only thing that shows is your beautiful smile.
How Long Should Dentures Last? The question we should ask is, how long will my dentures be functional for? Dentures can last twenty or
more years, but will lose their function (chewing ability, proper fit etc.) probably after two years. This will depend on many factors: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Quality of dentures. Age of Patient. General health of patient. Any drastic change in weight.
Dentures Need Regular Servicing Dentures are in constant use almost 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are also in a pretty hostile environment in the mouth, being attacked by strong acid, bacteria, hot, cold and spicy food. Denture material absorbs liquids and food odour. Daily cleaning is essential as well as professional ultrasonic cleaning in a dental laboratory at least once a year. Due to constant bone resorbtion dentures will become loose sooner or later. Loose dentures will increase damage to the gums and bone structure, and increase the risk of breakage. Have them re-lined as soon as possible to get a good fit. It only takes a day or two. Have your dentures inspected by a dentist or denturist at least every two years, or more frequently if necessary.
Your Dentures need Attention 1. When they become loose. 2. When teeth or denture base discolours. 3. When tooth surfaces become flat. 4. When denture base does not fit around natural teeth (in partial dentures).
5. When you develop deep lines around your mouth. 6. When your chin sticks out, and the corners of your lips are constantly wet, developing sores. 7. When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed.
Loose Dentures Can be re-lined by adding a thin layer of the new acrylic to fit the surface of the dentures, making them fit better (takes one or two days).
Dentures with worn down teeth Teeth can be replaced with a new set.
Major improvements in Facial Features Padding dentures to reduce lines and fill up sunken cheeks will require a new set of dentures. It is advisable to have a new set of dentures made every 5 to 10 years.
Should I have a spare set of Dentures made? Yes, it is very important to have
a spare set of dentures for emergencies in case of breakage.
Where do I go to have a good set of Dentures made? Every dentist can make dentures, but not all of them will specialise in denture making. Ask your Dental Technician for recommendations of suitable Dentist.
Summary 1. Clean your dentures daily with a denture brush and denture cream. 2. Have your dentures inspected every two years, and re-lined or ultra-sonically cleaned. 3. Have a new set made every 5 years if possible. 4. Keep a spare set for emergencies. 5. Remember, dentures do not have to hurt and do not need to be uncomfortable. 6. With a new set of dentures, you should receive a written guarantee, a detailed prescription of the materials used in your dentures, cleaning and servicing instructions, and a cleaning kit. 7. Dentures so life-like you’d think they were real.
What is a Clinical Dental Technician? Professional Clinical Dental Technicians are members of the Dental Health Care Team. They have undergone specific training and education in the skills and knowledge necessary to provide a removable appliance service directly to the community. Equipped with solid technical training as a Dental Technician - plus post-technician training in sciences, clinical skills, and interpersonal skills - the Clinical Dental Technician can design, create, construct and modify (repair and rebase) removable appliances to ensure optimal fit, maximum comfort and general wellbeing of patients. These skills enable the Clinical Dental Technician, whilst remaining a member of the Dental Health Care Team, to work independently of other Dental Health Care providers.
A fully qualified local Clinical Dental Technician is Paul Moorcroft of Abacus Dental Studio.
Abacus Dental Studio NEW DENTURES DENTURE REPAIRS l
Do your dentures make you look older? Do they hurt? Clinical Dental Technician l
While you wait - Express Service One hour Denture Repairs l Alterations, Relines and Cleaning l Home Visits l Appointments arranged as necessary l Friendly l Informal atmosphere with prices guaranteed not to frighten the most nervous patients l l
Your Complete Mobile Denture Service - 1 Firs Close, High Wycombe, Bucks HP13 7LX. 07970 058506 / 01494 864120 / 01628 603010 15 High St, Theale, Reading, Berks RG7 5AH - Just off Junction 12, M4. (0118) 930 3965 Abacus Dental Studio at the Old Library Dental Practice, Lower Broadmoore Road, Crowthorne RG45 7LA. (01344) 777751 www.abacus-dentalstudio.co.uk
Multi Million Pound Investment at the Berkshire Independent Hospital The Berkshire Independent Hospital has started work on phase one of a multi million pound investment in the facilities within the hospital. Phase one is the refurbishment and replacement of X-ray equipment and reception, with the second phase being the upgrade of the ward areas including all en suite bedrooms and bathrooms. Phase three will cover the main hospital reception and general areas. Interim General Manager, Sasha Burns says “I am delighted to be able to announce the start of this project which demonstrates the confidence that owners Ramsay Health Care has in Berkshire Independent Hospital (BIH). The BIH has been delivering high quality health care for over the last thirty years, with exceptionally high customer satisfaction and extremely low infection rates. The team at BIH are looking forward to showing off the new facilities to consultants and patients in the near future”.
style provides a welcoming and attractive environment for patients and their visitors.
New Radiology suite During this stage of the redevelopment the Radiology suite is being totally transformed to include a new general x-ray room and equipment plus additional consulting rooms. This will open in early October. This follows the earlier upgrades which has seen the installation of MRI and DEXA Scanners.
NHS and Private Patients We cater for NHS patients under the governments Patient Choice programme, self-payers and those with private medical insurance. Private patients will benefit from Premium Care services and fast access. Only consultants and specialists treat our patients, who are looked after with dignity in a clean environment. We pride ourselves on zero infection rate. Patients can arrange their treatment at times convenient to them as we offer appointments throughout the day, including early morning, evening and Saturday clinics. Our visiting hours are flexible, allowing friends and family members to visit at convenient times. There is ample, free parking at the hospital in addition to excellent train and bus links for non-drivers.
Medical Technology By investing in advanced medical technology, the hospital offers a wide range of treatments and services. The three fully equipped theatres with a seven-bedded recovery area are particularly suitable for orthopaedic procedures offered, such as arthroscopy, hip and knee replacement. A dedicated day surgery suite is suitable for minor surgery and endoscopy.
The Consultants view New Bedrooms The picture gives you an impression of a new patient bedroom. The design has been selected to appeal to a broad range of patients. A simple but contemporary
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Professor Ofer Levy, one of the leading Orthopaedic Surgeons, is delighted with the scope of the investment plan. “I have enjoyed a long association with The Berkshire Independent Hospital and feel that these new facilities will further enhance my patients’ experience”.
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™
Setting the standard for private healthcare
Get more from your hospital stay
The Premium Care Difference Whether you’re insured or paying for your own treatment, The Berkshire Independent Hospital offers:
• Immediate access to healthcare • Priority access through our fast track service • Healthy à la carte food
• Your own private room to assist recovery* • Personal service and care for your specific needs • Choice of appointment and short waiting times
0118 902 8114
www.berkshireindependenthospital.co.uk Berkshire Independent Hospital, Swallows Croft, Wensley Road, Reading RG1 6UZ *For overnight stays only
The Most Common Denture Questions Answered At The Berkshire Dental Laboratory we have many years of experience and expertise when it comes to new dentures and provide an excellent after care service. A common question that patients ask is ‘What is the best way to clean my dentures?’ What is the best way to clean my dentures? When you clean your original teeth you are advised to start at the same point and work your way round, cleaning all the surfaces of each tooth, twice a day. Well a denture is no different! Get a good brush, the ones specially designed for dentures are best. To be effective your toothbrush needs to be changed every 3-6 months or when the bristles become splayed out. Brush the polished side and the area that fits against your gums, paying particular attention to all those spaces between the teeth and other hard to reach parts. For brushing, a good liquid soap or washing up liquid is very effective, it cleans your dishes so why not your denture! Denture cream and toothpaste are also good. Toothpaste can be a little abrasive but, in my experience, with dentures made from modern acrylics and brushed gently with a soft brush, it does little damage. Denture soak tablets can work well, but they do have a tendency to bleach the colour from the acrylic, so please ensure you read the instructions carefully. There are ultra sonic cleaners on the market that will help with cleaning your denture. They work by causing
36
little shock waves that disturb and remove any debris and you can use your usual denture cleaner with them. Using a disclosing tablet is a good way of telling if you are cleaning the whole surface and not missing any areas. After you have cleaned your denture just pop it in a cup with a disclosing tablet then any areas you have missed will be highlighted. This will help you to ensure the whole denture is thoroughly clean. For a deep clean that you can do at home, fill a container with half cool tap water and half white vinegar or baking soda. Give the combination a mix and leave the dental appliances in the container for 20 – 30 minutes, finally brush as usual. The tartar that builds up on your dentures is a lot like limescale so this will help soften it up before brushing.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Remember to rinse your dentures before placing them back into your mouth or you will be left with an unpleasant taste in your mouth! Of course you can visit us at the Laboratory for a polish. A high gloss surface prevents food sticking to them and keeps them in tip top shape. If you have any denture related questions please do not hesitate to contact me: Jon Davey Clinical Technician The Berkshire Dental Laboratory 51a Lorne Street Reading RG1 7YW Telephone: 0118 958 2226 Email: enquiries@berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk
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Beautiful Smile The Berkshire Dental Laboratory 3 High quality new dentures 3 Strongest & most natural materials 3 Relines, copy dentures, chrome dentures
Beautiful Smile
3 Repairs while-u-wait, free consultation 3 All work guaranteed
3 Close to Reading West Station, walking distance from town centre
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3 Off parking High qualityroad new dentures Strongest & most natural materials 3 VAT FREE Relines, copy dentures, chrome dentures Repairs while-u-wait, free consultation All work guaranteed
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0118 958 2226
We are Dental Technicians Call: registered with the Call. Email: 0118enquiries@berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk 958 2226 Email. enquiries@berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk
Berkshire Dental Laboratory, 51aStreet, LorneReading Street, RG1 Reading TheThe Berkshire Dental Laboratory, 51a Lorne 7YW RG1 7YW
www.berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk www.berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk
Perfect Companions pets and people you have only to watch the relationship between the two to see how it benefits both .... Harvey Locke has seen this satisfying chemistry at first hand over 40-plus years as a vet, and is a great believer in pet power. “Animals can provide real companionship and improve people’s health as well,” he insists.
enough – to take it for walk. The breed is also important. You wouldn’t want someone with severe arthritis owning a border collie which needs plenty of exercise and attention.” Far better to discuss the matter with your local vet right at the outset, so he or she can give invaluable advice on suitability and practicality. “It’s important to talk through your lifestyle and your disposable income,” states Mr Locke. “It’s obviously more expensive to look after a Great Dane than a poodle. “And if you’re a fairly frail person, then you need a dog you can easily control.” Where you live is also instrumental in pet choice. Life in a third-floor flat might not be conducive to keeping and exercising a Pyrennean Mountain Dog, for example.
However, as president of the British Veterinary Association, he is also a great exponent of responsible petowning and believes that this starts as soon as the decision is made to actually own a pet. “What tends to happen with older people, unfortunately, is that children and grandchildren buy them an animal without actually asking first or checking if it’s suitable for them,” he says. “For example, with a dog you probably need to be fit enough – and willing
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around £25 although prices do vary around the country,” says Mr Locke. It’s also worth knowing that boarding kennels will only house your animal if it has had its vaccinations. Your dog also needs to be microchipped. “This costs around £10 to £25 but is a one-off fee and very valuable,” states the vet. “Your details go on a national database and if your dog gets lost or is found wandering, its owner is just a phone call away. So there’s peace of mind, too.” Your vet will also help with advice on nutrition for your pet, and the likely costs involved. “There’s bound to be a big difference between, for example, feeding a cat and feeding a very large dog. There’s also been a big change in dried food for pets, which can mean cheaper bills.”
“Where you obtain your dog is also extremely important,” adds Mr Locke. “Avoid puppy farms or anyone who wants to deliver the dog to you. Go and see the breeder, where the dogs are kept, and always see at least one of its parents so you can assess how big the dog will grow and its likely temperament.” Rescue animals are often a good choice, from a responsible sanctuary. Often such pets are already vaccinated and even micro-chipped. “Dogs are at risk from distemper, parvo virus, viral hepatitis, leptospirosis, para influenza and kennel cough so they need a course of vaccinations that cost around £50, with a booster a year later that’s
Four- Legged Friend: Dogs like this one can provide healthy companionships and ensure owners get plenty of regular exercise.
Regular dog-walking can also introduce you to fellow dog-owners. People easily get talking with this shared interest and kinship which leads to new friends. Margo Giles, aged 76, who got her Lurcher dog from Dogs Trust, sums up the benefits: “I think if all older people were to visit a dogs’ home instead of their GP and were issued with a dog like my Reuben, there would be a lot of healthier pensioners about, no obesity and no need to worry about the rising cost of heating – there’s no time to get cold!” Cats also make excellent companions. Mr Locke recommends getting a kitten under the age of six months “that’s not set in its ways and won’t have got into bad habits.” He suggests that older people avoid pedigree cats as they tend to have more health problems than the average moggy. Vaccinations and micro-chipping are, again, important, and rescue cats are often a good choice.
Vets also generally recommend pet owners take out insurance for treatment and neutering costs. “If your pet is run over and injured, or falls ill, these bills can run into thousands of pounds so insurance is really important,” says Mr Locke. Vets can’t suggest individual policies but they can advise on general type. If a cat or dog doesn’t appeal or is unsuitable for any reason, Mr Locke suggests a pet rabbit. “There has been a big increase in the numbers of people keeping rabbits because so many can now be kept indoors,” he says. “Rabbits can be house-trained to use a litter like a cat does, they will play and fetch things and are good company. “The only danger with rabbits is that they can chew through indoor cables like telephones so watch out for that!” A guinea pig is another rewarding choice. “They’re cheap to keep, they don’t smell and they’re lovely little things,” adds Mr Locke.
For many people who are housebound or have very limited mobility, a caged bird can be a welcome companion. Just having an animal around the house can be someone to talk to. For others, a pet can be a real boost to health. “People who have had heart attacks, for instance, may improve their health by taking a pet dog for regular walks – exercise they might not otherwise take,” Mr Locke says. “And just stroking a cat or dog can actually lower blood pressure.” Organisations like Pets as Therapy (PAT) actively take animals into hospitals and care homes where they become popular visitors. Some care homes around the country have even bought dogs and other animals as popular “residents”. An increasing number of residential homes are also allowing elderly residents to keep their pets with them as parting them can be traumatic for both. The Pets for Life campaign is trying to highlight the problem.
Castle Vets Pet Healthcare Centre
1 Tilehurst Road, Reading RG1 7TW
Phone: 0118 957 4488
Castle Vets have been caring for pets in the Reading area since the 19th century and we are proud to provide the highest quality veterinary treatment for companion animals, combined with courteous service for our clients, in a friendly and caring environment.
• 24 hour pet care with emergency cover on site • Separate cat facilities throughout • Pet Health Club with discounted rates • Pet ambulance service • Large private car park
www.castle-vets.co.uk email: admin@castle-vets.demon.co.uk
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! T I M I A L C , s r ou
y s ' If it
Do you need help in paying your
Council Tax and Rent?
Housing Benefit
How do I claim benefit?
This is financial help towards paying your rent. For pensioners with savings (who are not in receipt of pension credit guarantee) the first £10,000 is ignored. There is a maximum of £16,000 above which there is no entitlement to Housing Benefit/Council Tax Benefit. Those in receipt of guarantee credit are automatically entitled to maximum benefit.
You’ll need to complete a benefit claim form or ask someone to help if you are unable to complete one yourself. Call 01189 372 824 or request the form online at www.reading.gov.uk
Council Tax Benefit This is financial help towards paying your Council Tax bill. Retired people who are liable to pay Council Tax can apply. Couples make one claim based on both their incomes.
Did you know: • You don’t have to receive any other state benefits to claim it. • You may still be entitled even if you already receive a discount on your Council Tax. • If you have over £16,000, but have an adult living with you, (other than your partner) who is on a low income, you may still qualify for help. This is called Second Adult Rebate. • If you receive Pension Credit (Savings Credit) you may also get help.
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When will my claim start? Normally entitlement starts from the Monday after you have contacted us. Therefore, it’s very important that you make a claim as soon you think you need help. To help us process your claim promptly, please supply the required documentary evidence with your claim.
Reading One Connect through your Sky, Telewest or NTL Interactive Service to access local information from RBC regarding Benefits and ordering forms. Alternatively you can e-mail us: benefits@reading.gov.uk or visit our website: www.reading.gov.uk The Benefit Customer Service Helpline is 01189 372 824.
Each year thousands of ££££’s go unclaimed!
If you are in any doubt – apply! It won’t cost you anything and it could save you money
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Worried about your bill? Having difficulty paying? The sooner you contact us the quicker we can help. Phone us on 01189 372 656 to discuss your problem.
Can I get a reduction in my bill? We can reduce your council tax bill in the following situations: • If you live alone; • If you are being cared for somewhere other than your main home; • In some cases people with disabilities can get a reduction.
If you think any of these may apply to you and a reduction is not already shown on your bill, please contact us on 01189 372 656 for more information or an application form.
How to pay your Council Tax Direct Debit the easier way to pay If you have a bank or building society account, then Direct Debit is an easy and convenient way to pay your Council Tax. If you choose this method, we will let you know how much we will ask your bank for and let you know if there are any changes to to this amount. To make it easier for you there is a choice of payment days: 1st, 15th or 25th. You can set up a direct debit over the phone, call us on 01189 372 656.
On the internet Just visit the Council’s website at www.reading.gov.uk and select Online Payments from the Further Information section of our home page.
By Debit or Credit Card Over the telephone or in person, by cheque or by post or online at www.reading.gov.uk Just phone us on 01189 372 877 (automated phone service) and have the following information ready: • Your Council Tax account number; and • Your debit or credit card number, expiry date and name on the card.
PayPoint There are outlets in the Reading Area where you can pay by cash, including all post offices and PayPoint outlets. For more information where they are located visit www.pay.net/outlets. To order a PayPoint card, call on 01189 372 656
Can I get help with my Rent? Do you pay rent to the Local Council, Housing Association or Private Landlord? You may be able to get help with your rent if you are on a low income, state benefits, pension etc. and have capital under £16,000. For further information contact us on: 01189 372 824.
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Who are the victims of Benefit Fraud?
■ The actions of these people affect every man, woman & child in the U.K. ■ It is costing the country over £900million per year. ■ It costs every household in the UK about £36 per year, this money could buy: l l l
13,000 Doctors. 20,000 Police officers. 23,000 Teachers.
YOU ARE ! We’re closing in
Housing Benefit helps many people on low incomes. Sadly there are many people who claim when they are not entitled. These people make fraudulent claims by: l l l l l
Withholding information Exaggerating details Forgetting to report changes Overlooking savings or investments Setting out to commit fraud
This could be: l Working and not declaring this income l Claiming as a single person but living with a partner. l Claiming for an address, but not living there. l Not fully declaring financial position at start of claim.
WE ALL HAVE A MORAL DUTY TO REPORT BENEFIT FRAUD, TO PROTECT YOUR HOSPITALS, SCHOOLS AND LOCAL SERVICES
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
with hundreds of benefit thieves being reported If you suspect someone of benefit fraud in your area, contact your local council in confidence :
0500 500 777
0500 500 777
OUT & ABOUT
Birders’ Day at the Museum From: 25 Feb 2012 To: 25 Feb 2012 11.00am – 3.30pm, with talks at 12.00pm and 2.00pm Reading Museum & Town Hall, Blagrave Street, Reading, RG1 1QH A celebration of Robert Gillmor’s long association with local birders, notably the Berkshire Ornithological Club. Club members will be in the Museum to chat to visitors about birds and birdwatching. There will be displays, competitions and activities for all the family. Talk at 12.00pm: 150 years of Birds and Birdwatching in Berkshire with Renton Righelato, Chairman of the BOC. Talk at 2.00pm: The Birds of Berkshire – the challenge of recording and illustrating our avian history with Neil Bucknell, Former Chairman of the BOC. Free, drop in: Suggested donation £2 for talks - this will help ensure the continuation of our events programme in future.
Henley Choral Society Spring Concert - Haydn's The Creation From: 17 Mar 2012 To: 17 Mar 2012 Concert Hall, Reading Museum & Town Hall, Blagrave Street, Reading, RG1 1QH Tickets £15, under 18s £12. Booking fee £1.95 per ticket. Booking: Contact the Box Office on 0118 960 6060.
London to Reading Bike Ride 25 March 2012 Kempton Park Racecourse, Staines Road East, Sunbury on Thames TW16 5AQ Time(s) 8:00AM to 2:00PM The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is calling all cycling enthusiasts to sign up for the charity’s brand new London to Reading bike ride. Entries are now open for this exciting new challenge, perfect for serious cyclists looking for their first ride of the season and those looking to get fit and active in 2012. On Sunday 25 March 2012 riders will depart from near London’s historic Hampton Court on a 45 mile route through Berkshire’s beautiful countryside before crossing the finish line at Christchurch Meadows in the very heart of Reading. BHF Event Organiser, Rob Cox, said: “We’re thrilled to be holding the first ever London to Reading Bike Ride in 2012. We’ve already had some amazing support from Reading Council and local groups, and we’re hoping
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even more people and local businesses will come forward to get involved in the run up to the day itself. We’re expecting this event to sell out quickly as there’s been so much positive". Entry for this bike ride is £15 for adults and £7.50 for children and purely covers the cost of running the event. This is a sponsored event and the BHF relies upon the money raised to help fund its pioneering research to continue to save lives. The nation’s heart charity expects at least 500 people to take part in year one and is aiming to raise £20,000. They are appealing to participants to raise as much sponsorship as they can to help beat heart disease for good. Sadly every six minutes someone dies from a heart attack and nearly all of us know someone who has been affected by heart disease. Save lives by getting involved, having fun and getting fit. To take part please register online at the following website bhf.org.uk or contact the events team on 0808 100 2109.
Stay Active (Over 55s Club) Every Wednesday & Friday 9am-12pm Sports Park The University of Reading Shinfield Road RG6 6UR Stay Active is a weekly session for the over 55’s. The SportsPark offers a morning of activities which will help you Stay Active and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Activities include: • Badminton/Table tennis • Squash/Racquetball • Tennis • Gentle fitness & yoga classes • Gym You will be able to enjoy all of these activities for just £3.75 per session. Plus enjoy a tea or coffee in our cafe Eat@SportsPark There’s no need to register in advance, you can just turn up on the day. For further information please contact the SportsPark reception on 0118 378 8799.
Reading Half Marathon in aid of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust 1st April 2012 until 1st April 2012 With its start in Green Park, this superb half marathon is the fastest course in the UK. It will see 16,500 runners of all abilities taking to the streets next spring, with an impressive finish inside the Madejski Stadium, home to Reading FC.
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The Right Royal Crafty Craft Race Bank Holiday Monday 11 May 2012 The race takes place along 10 miles of the Kennet & Avon Canal from Hungerford to Newbury.
Wokingham Art Society Mondays at the Cornerstone Centre All Saints Church, Wokingham Come and paint with us 2pm to 4.30pm, most Mondays £2.50 per session, tea/coffee provided. 4 February 2012 (10 am to 4 pm) Workshop with Chris Forsey at WADE, 40 Reading Road, Wokingham Book a.s.a.p. with Brenda Baldwin 21 February 2012 President’s Evening - Paul Banning 20 March 2012 People in pictures (oils) Roger Dellar 14 April 2012 (10 am to 4 pm) Workshop with Liz Seward, “Organising Chaos”, watercolour & acrylic, at WADE, 40 Reading Road, Wokingham. Book a.s.a.p. with Brenda Baldwin
17 April 2012 Collage- Sarah Janavicius 5 May 2012 Oils- Robin Mackervoy 19 June 2012 AGM and demo - Sue Smith 21 July to 4 Aug 2012 Summer Exhibition 21 August 2012 Subject TBA Wendy Jelbert
The Hexagon
Queens Walk, Reading RG1 7UA. Box Office: 0118 960 6060 Saturday 14 April 7.30pm Royal Philamonic Orchestra Plus Noisy Kids with RPO. 11.30am. Tuesday19 April 7.30pm Harmonal Housewives Starring Beverley Callard Early Bird Offer - Book before 1 Jan and get £5 off each full price ticket.
Elderly care and support from homes you can trust ... St Lukes in Caversham is a purpose built home with an enviable reputation for providing specialist care for older people and older people experiencing living with a dementia. Lakeside is B&M Care’s latest purpose built development in Reading and enjoys outstanding views over Whiteknights Lake. Both homes offer:l Long term and short stay residential care l Specialist dementia care l Outstanding facilities l Full activities programmes l En-suite private rooms l Exclusive locations
St Lukes Care Home, Marshland Square, Caversham T: 0118 9461424 E: stlukes@bmcare.co.uk
For further information or to arrange a visit please give us a call
Lakeside Care Home, Whiteknights Road, Reading T: 0118 926 8369 E: lakeside@bmcare.co.uk
Or visit
www.bmcare.co.uk
Lakeside Care Home, Reading NOW OPEN
If you have experience at senior or management level in a care home then please call our Recruitment Line on 01442 279166 www.retiredmagazines.co.uk
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An active, independent lifestyle isn’t something that’s usually associated with care homes. However, one local care home is working hard to transform such beliefs.
“The only thing that changed was my address...”
Alexandra Grange in Molly Millars Lane, Wokingham, opened early last year and prides itself on providing quality care while ensuring each resident lives a happy and fulfilled lifestyle. The home’s ‘relationshipcentred care’ approach means that individual needs are at the very centre of the care provided. Home manager Sam Ndlovu explains, “We build a relationship with every resident in order to truly connect with their unique personal histories and personalities.” This relationship allows staff to really understand each individual resident: their likes, dislikes, what makes them happy or sad, and where they need support in their daily lives. Residents are encouraged to play a full part in daily living activities, which can include assisting with light housekeeping, helping to prepare meals or a spot of gardening. Sam explains, “Our gardens have raised beds so that green fingered residents can continue their love of the outdoors
at Alexandra Grange.” There is even an allotment close to the home so that keen vegetable growers don’t have to give up planting when they move in – they could even help produce some of the fresh fruit and veg the head chef cooks up every day! There is a Wii games console that can be used by residents and their relatives and there is internet access for residents to use laptops anywhere in the home. That way, grandparents can keep in contact with grandchildren by Skype or social networking sites. The home recognises the need for something more than the traditional model of an activities co-ordinator who simply organises quizzes and entertainment, fun though these activities are. Activity is part of daily life, and the home’s approach to activities reverts back to relationshipcentred care; listening to each resident’s life story, as individual tastes and interests vary greatly. Some people’s activity requirements will be
to simply listen to their favourite radio show or TV programme every day; some will want to pop out to a weekly coffee morning at the church hall they’ve been going to for years; some people will want to run the gardening club. There is a weekly schedule of activities residents can choose to get involved in. Almost every week, there’s a party or celebration of some kind, and there are often fund-raising events for charities such as Age UK, Alzheimer’s Society, or NAPA (The National Association for Providers of Activities for Older People). The home has strong links with the community, and so local
school choirs and entertainers are frequent visitors to Alexandra Grange. Shortly after opening, the home was awarded the prestigious Pinders award for its design and outstanding facilities, which include; a dedicated cinema room, spa therapy room, a his and hers hair salon and a garden café. Thelma Bateman is a resident at Alexandra Grange, and after overcoming the initial fears of moving into care, is enjoying her life at the home. Thelma explains, “Living here is so comfortable – much more than l expected it to be. I am very happy here. I didn’t want to give up my old life and lose my independence, but living here – I don’t have to.” To find out more about Alexandra Grange call 0118 9123210 or visit www.hallmarkcarehomes.co.uk
Exceptional relationship– centred care in a luxurious environment with outstanding facilities. Call in and see us today.
Oaklands Drive Molly Millars Lane Wokingham RG41 2RU 0118 9123210
www.hallmarkcarehomes.co.uk
Mary Hare Hearing Centre The Hearing Experts
We’r e listenin g !
Tel: 01635 523343
Enriching lives for over one hundred years
Providing the most comprehensive service in the UK. • • • • • •
Free hearing assessments Money back guarantee Free aftercare service Wax removal Latest technology Repairs of all makes of hearing aid, any problem • Free battery club 99p for six Mary Hare Hearing Centre, Weavers Walk, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 1AL. Tel: 01365 523343.
www.maryharehearingcentres.co.uk