Didsbury Magazine Dec | Jan 2017

DECEMBER | JANUARY 2016/17 • ISSUE 112

M AG A Z I N E

WIN Cold Feet Winter Wonderland

Series 2 on DVD

Salutions

Charity Ball photos

Pabla+Pabla Covering all aspects of the law

Merry Christmas!

PEOPLE | FASHION | SHOPPING | BEAUTY | FOOD | TRAVEL | HEALTH | INTERIORS

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Hell0 Beverley & Salim Uddin-Khandakar with Robin Thicke aboard The Kismet

SALUTIONS HQ It’s all about the visits, awards, launches and lunches…

It certainly is the most wonderful time of the year. I love Christmas, especially a white Christmas, but I’m not a fan of these cold evenings. As per usual, Salutions HQ has been a hive of activity. Over 300 guests attended our annual Winter Wonderland Charity Ball and helped raise an amazing £16,000 for our chosen charity, Beechwood Cancer Care. Take a look at some of the fabulous photos on page 19 and online at salutions.co.uk To make the festive season extra special, we have some spectacular competitions tucked inside this issue: you can win a made-to-measure bespoke suit, courtesy of I AM SUIT (page 35); a party night at the Cresta Court hotel for you and nine friends (page 54); Cold Feet Series 2 on DVD (page 55); and an alternative night out at Food Sorcery at the Waterside Hotel on page 82.

Congratulations to last issue’s winners: Sandra Sherriff from Bowdon, who won a pair of tickets to the Seychelles, courtesy of Turkish Airlines; Emma Curnow from Royton, who won a table for 10 at The Cottage; and Jane Hampson from Hale, who won a cut and colour at HOB Salon Hale.

Beverley with Gareth Gates at the Manchester Food & Drink Awards Gala Dinner and receiving ‘Runner-up Business of the Year award from Sean Anstee, Leader of Trafford Council.

I hope you enjoy this issue and if, like me, you’ve not started your Christmas shopping, I hope our gift guide inspires you.

Wishing you a very merry Christmas and happy 2017, and we’ll be back with you in February.

Beverley Salim, Beverley & Darren Proctor at Salutions Winter Wonderland Charity Ball

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Beverley Uddin-Khandakar e: beverley@salutions.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS Catherine Reed Fay Wertheimer Oliver Chesher GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR Dr Jill Nash Salim Uddin-Khandakar Charlotte Batra e: salim@salutions.co.uk Catherine Saunders Suzy Glaskie ADVERTISING Ray King Call the sales team on Lisa Symonds 0161 445 2883 Victoria Hinksman e: info@salutions.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY Administrative Assistant Mike Browne Emily Fitzgibbons Monir Ali, Little Big Ego PR Shots ART DIRECTION & DESIGN Bigstockphoto.com Paul King / Claire King Press Loft Martin Hambleton www.twistedgifted.co.uk e: creative@twistedgifted.co.uk

DISTRIBUTION Avanti

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This Magazine is published six times a year by Salutions Limited. The contents may not be reprinted or reproduced without prior written permission. The publishers are not liable for statements made and opinions expressed. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and the publisher can take no responsibility for omissions and errors.

Salutions Limited. 5 The Stables, Parrs Wood Entertainment Centre, Didsbury, Manchester M20 5PG Tel: 0161 445 2883 | E: info@salutions.co.uk Visit us online: salutions.co.uk

Competition Terms & Conditions

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December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

No purchase necessary. Employees of Salutions Limited and associated companies, promotional partners, their agents and families are not eligible to enter. Entries will be declared void if found mutilated, illegible, altered, reconstructed, forged or tampered with in any way. In the event of there being more claims than prizes available in any category, then prizes will be awarded to the earliest claimant. (Where applicable, as stated.) All entries are subject to scrutiny. Salutions Limited reserves the right to stop the promotion/competition at any time at its own discretion. Winners must accept that their names may be announced on any Salutions related media, including web and print, and may be used for publicity purposes if required. Rules as published, when applicable to specific joint offers, product discounts etc. All prizes unclaimed remain the property of Salutions Limited. Persons under the age of 18 are not eligible to enter. The prize must be taken as offered and is not transferable. No cash or credit alternatives will be given. Editor’s decision is final. By entering a competition you agree to receive e-letters and mailshots from Salutions Limited. We do not sell our database to third parties and are compliant with the Data Protection Act 1998. Should you wish NOT to receive such information, please state NO OFFERS. By entering the competition you agree to the above terms and conditions.

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Dermal fillers can be used to create amazing facial structure with absolutely no surgery, and for a fraction of the price. Fillers along the jaw, nose, chin and cheeks can subtly enhance the existing contours of your face, giving you a more striking appearance. I am very experienced in creating a natural look, which highlights what you already have, rather than masking it.

Nose reshaping is particularly costeffective, as it can correct bumps and asymmetry in the nose without a single knife going near. By using fillers instead of rhinoplasty, you will save thousands of pounds in treatment costs, not to mention downtime – there is no downtime with fillers, which means you won't need to take time off work.

What is Ultherapy® and why do I need it?

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As we get older, gravity and lifestyle takes its toll on our skin. Ultherapy® is here to counteract these effects, and is able to lift, tighten and tone the skin. It can lift jowls, tighten sagging skin on the neck, lift drooping eyelids, add jaw definition, smooth the décolletage and, ultimately, take years off you. It's the only non-surgical treatment that uses ultrasound technology to stimulate the growth of new collagen, allowing the body to naturally produce new collagen, the body’s production of which typically slows down in your 30’s.

Adult acne can knock your confidence hugely. It is my job, as a specially trained cosmetic doctor, to be able to diagnose and treat acne effectively.

I recommend specialist skincare such as UniverSkin. These are personalised skincare products based around the Nexultra™ P serum which, when mixed with other ingredients tailored towards your individual needs, results in a bespoke product that will really transform your skin. UniverSkin is incredibly versatile and effective, and addresses all kinds of skin issues, including dryness, oiliness, acne, pigmentation, uneven tone, and even wrinkles.

Ultherapy® can provide a safe and non-surgical alternative to a facelift.

This treatment uses ultrasound imaging throughout your treatment, giving you a truly bespoke treatment.

Acne can also be minimised with Dermapen microneedling treatments, which will help with large pores and acne scarring too. I also incorporate a special artificial growth hormone to stimulate regeneration.

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December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | Contents

91

R EGU L A R S 01 09 32 80 89

Hello from the editor News & views New woolly wardrobe Ask the Expert Education

H E A LT H & B E A U T Y 05 81 112

Ask Dr Nyla Peppermint Wellness

HOME & GARDEN 58 65 66 67

All new appliances Design for living – Tsiantar Architects A not so blank canvas Lady Muck

PEOPLE

DECEMBER | JANUARY 2016/17 • ISSUE 112

DECEMBER | JANUARY 2016/17 • ISSUE 49

M AG A Z I N E

24 26 28 87 91 93 95 99 101 107

M AGA Z I N E

FOOD & DRINK

WIN Cold Feet Winter Wonderland

Series 2 on DVD

Winter Wonderland

Salutions

Charity Ball photos

Pabla+Pabla Covering all aspects of the law

Merry Christmas!

PEOPLE | FASHION | SHOPPING | BEAUTY | FOOD | TRAVEL | HEALTH | INTERIORS

Salutions

Dr Nyla Raja Medispa Wilmslow

Charity ball photos

Sally Petrie

Helen Jeys

Cheadle Hulme School

83 84

Alderley Edge School for Girls

PEOPLE | FASHION | SHOPPING | BEAUTY | FOOD | TRAVEL | HEALTH | INTERIORS

85 DECEMBER | JANUARY 2016/17 • ISSUE 85

Dan Fruhman Simon Booth Kiran & Hari Pabla Paul Hindley Brendan Wignall Helen Jeys Sally Petrie Steph Molnar & Dee McKenzie Lucia Davies Nicola Wilburn

Food Review – Gusto Didsbury Dining Guide – Hotel Gotham / The Lost & Found / Y Fabrica Dining Guide – Pizza Express / The Liquor Store / Alderley Edge Hotel

M AGA Z I N E DECEMBER | JANUARY 2016/17 • ISSUE 20

M AGA Z I N E WIN a

Villeroy & Boch

Foresight’s

Simon Booth on New Year's Resolutions

bathtub worth £3000

Tickets to Zanzibar courtesy of Turkish Airlines

Shop Altrincham

this Christmas

Nicola Wilburn-Shaw Pabla+Pabla

Win a bespoke suit from I AM SUIT

PEOPLE | FASHION | SHOPPING | BEAUTY | FOOD | TRAVEL | HEALTH | INTERIORS

Dan Fruhman Deliveroo Building a $1 billion business

E N T E R TA I N M E N T 37 42 44 108 111 112

Trend-setting Zurich – Switzerland Retreat to Ikos – Greece Kendal Calling – The Lake District What’s on Gadgets Motors

PEOPLE | FASHION | SHOPPING | BEAUTY | FOOD | TRAVEL | HEALTH | INTERIORS

COMPETITIONS ON THE COVER DIDSBURY MAGAZINE The cast of Cold Feet Image: Courtesy of ITV

BONUS SAPOR MAGAZINE Dr Nyla Raja Medispa Wilmslow

35 54 55 82

Bespoke suit worth £699 Party night for 10 at Cresta Court Hotel Cold Feet Series 2 on DVD Cooking Together evening

AND THE REST… HALE&BOWDON MAGAZINE Simon Booth Foresight Wealth Strategists Image: Mike Browne

MEDIACITY MAGAZINE Dan Fruhman Deliveroo Image: Mike Browne

19 47

Winter Wonderland Charity Ball photos Christmas Gift Guide

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Legal maze We’ll see ahead. you through.

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Business advisory Business disputes Business employment Commercial real estate Construction and engineering Regulatory

Offices in Manchester, Chester and around the UK.

Call us:

0800 916 9052 slatergordon.co.uk Slater and Gordon (UK) LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

Local news in association with

S L AT E R A N D G O R D O N B U S I N E S S L E G A L S E R V I C E S

Winter Wonderland returns to EventCity

Manchester’s biggest indoor Christmas attraction, Winter Wonderland, will be returning for its fourth consecutive year from Saturday 10th December to Sunday 1st January.

New for 2016 will be the Cinderella Mini Pantomime, guaranteed to enchant your little princes and princesses, and the Christmas Melt Down disco, where your little groovers can throw some shapes!

Of course, Christmas would not be complete without a visit from Santa Claus, complete with real reindeers, who will be taking time out of his busy schedule (every day, up to and including Christmas Eve) for meet and greets with all the children. And there will also be ice princesses, fairies and elves galore, who love to play and chat, and have photos taken with the little ones.

Winter Wonderland Manchester 2016 will take over EventCity next to the intu Traord Centre, which will be transformed in to an unbelievable extravaganza, featuring more than 50 family rides and attractions all under one roof, including new rides, and all included in one fantastic ticket price.

Follow on

As well as the rides and bright lights, the spectacular Christmas Circus also makes a welcome return, delivering the ďŹ nest collection of circus acts that will leave everyone marvelled and amazed with daily performances.

winterwonderlandmanchester.com facebook.com/WinterWonderlandManchester and

Twitter @WWManchester

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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S L AT E R A N D G O R D O N B U S I N E S S L E G A L S E R V I C E S

Double win for Peppermint Soda at industry awards

Hale-based integrated marketing communications agency, Peppermint Soda, has scooped two awards at this year’s North West Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) PRide Awards.

The awards dinner, which took place on 3rd November at The Midland in Manchester, saw the company take home the gold award in the not-for-profit category and silver in the public sector category for its campaign for Let’s Adopt, entitled ‘Once Upon a Family’.

Let’s Adopt, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s adoption service, tasked Peppermint Soda with driving traffic to its website and increasing enquiry numbers. The agency achieved this

through the implementation of a campaign centering on a communityfocused event and a storybook filled with emotive real-life tales of adoption.

The campaign achieved pick-up across regional print and broadcast media and led to a 100 per cent increase in web traffic when coverage landed, as well as doubling the average number of enquiries per month in comparison to previous years.

The judges commended the ambitious campaign for its strong research, and planning and community engagement, and highlighted its delivery of “great results at low cost”.

particularly pleased to have been recognised for generating tangible results for such a worthy cause. “This is just one example of the difference we continue to make to our clients’ businesses and we look forward to delivering more award-winning campaigns over the coming year.” peppermintsoda.co.uk

Jean-Philippe Glaskie, Managing Director at Peppermint Soda, said: “We’re thrilled to have won two awards for what was a stand-out campaign of ours this year. The team did a fantastic job in driving forward the client’s objectives and we’re

1,000 flock to popular community event

A gravity-defying rope act provided a spectacular finale to this year’s Didsbury Arts Festival (DAF) Lantern Parade.

A 1,000-strong crowd looked on as circus artist, 21-year-old Seren Marimba Corrigan, from Hulme, performed a series of heart-stopping drops and flips, suspended 30 feet above the ground. The breathtaking corde lisse routine made for a stunning climax at the end of a magical evening in Didsbury Park.

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December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

Once again, families flocked to the popular annual parade to enjoy a glowing evening of light, music and performance.

Adults and children carried lanterns of all shapes and sizes – including giant stars and tulips - to illuminate the wintry night sky.

Daniel Williamson, DAF Festival Director, said: “The finale was a fiercelyguarded secret, so it came as a wonderful surprise at the end of a fantastic evening.

Since the first event in 2012, the DAF Lantern Parade has grown more popular every year and is a real highlight of the community calendar.

“I’m delighted at the huge number of families who turned out to enjoy this truly enchanting occasion. A big thank you to the Friends of Didsbury Park and Didsbury

Good Neighbours, as well as the lantern parade team, volunteers and members of the public, for making this such a successful and enjoyable evening!” didsburyartsfestival.org

S L AT E R A N D G O R D O N B U S I N E S S L E G A L S E R V I C E S

Generous donation to St Ann’s Hospice

North West business club, theProfileClub, and Hale-based PR, marketing and events company, Marketing Profile, recently held a breakfast event at the Manchester Airport Marriott Hotel.

Following the event, a cheque for £4,830 was donated to St Ann’s Hospice in Heald Green, an amount that had been raised by the private members’ business club throughout 2016.

Every year, St Ann’s Hospice cares for thousands of patients (over the age of 16) who are affected by cancer and other life-limiting illnesses, and provides support to their families and carers. They have three sites across the North West and also care for people in their own homes.

Managing Director of Marketing Profile, Barbara Hallwood, said: “We are delighted to be able to make such a donation to St Ann’s Hospice and thank all of our clients for their support. Earlier this year, I had cause to access the services of the charity during my mother’s illness, and also contributed to their fundraising efforts from her estate.”

Helen Cannell, Corporate Fundraiser for St Ann’s Hospice, said: “I would like to thank Barbara personally, and all at Marketing Profile and theProfileClub, for their efforts and outstanding fundraising for St Ann’s Hospice. Their generosity will help us to continue to provide outstanding care for both patients and families across Greater Manchester.”

Manchester charity distributing aid in Mosul as fighting intensifies

Human Appeal, an international aid organisation based in Greater Manchester, is currently on the ground in the Iraqi city of Mosul, as fighting between government and ISIS intensifies and the humanitarian need grows.

As the Iraqi army continues their offensive to retake the city from ISIS, up to a million people are expected to be displaced. It is estimated that, to date, over 3 million people across Iraq have been displaced and over 10 million are in need of aid.

Human Appeal has launched an emergency appeal to help them continue to distribute food, water, blankets and clothing – which will be in desperate need as military action escalates and winter draws in.

Pictures from Southern Mosul, less than 24 hours after it was liberated from ISIS.

Othman Moqbel, the CEO of Human Appeal, said of the situation: “There is great uncertainty in Mosul, from the NGO communities on the ground and the people living there, on what the future holds. But we are fairly certain that more violence is inevitable, and this will cause more and more people to flee the carnage and need a helping hand. Human Appeal will be there to offer a hand to all who need it.

“Human Appeal is doing all that it can to help the people of Mosul and are praying that civilians are spared from the seemingly unavoidable destruction that is about to be befall the city.

“We aren’t just providing food and water, but blankets and clothes too. Winter, as well as violence, is approaching the city of Mosul from all sides, and the people there are extremely vulnerable to both.”

Human Appeal (humanappeal.org.uk) is one of the UK’s fastest-growing charities. With a presence in 25 countries (spanning Asia, Africa, Europe and the Middle East), Human Appeal helps in times of crisis and delivers sustainable development programmes in the world’s poorest nations.

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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S L AT E R A N D G O R D O N B U S I N E S S L E G A L S E R V I C E S

Ziferblat to open new MediaCityUK co-working space

MediaCityUK’s newest creative co-working space, Tomorrow, will become home to Manchester’s second branch of pay-per-minute sitting room, Ziferblat.

Following its award-winning success on Edge Street in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, the independent will occupy 6,000 square foot of Tomorrow’s ground floor and mezzanine levels; providing a relaxed, creative environment for MediaCityUK’s thriving business community.

A unique blend of café culture and office working, Ziferblat’s concept is that customers pay for the time they spend in the space rather than the food and drink they consume. With a homely interior design, the new branch will be split between a public sitting room and co-working space, complete with separate private meeting

rooms and event spaces.

MediaCityUK’s Asset Manager Lynn Haime said: “Tomorrow will be home to some of the region’s most innovative and exciting SMEs across the broadcast, digital, media and tech sectors. What’s great about Ziferblat is that its quirky concept lends itself perfectly to creatives – it’s relaxed, welcoming and something a little bit different, and we’re confident it’s going to be a great addition to the MediaCityUK community.”

Before the fit-out commences, Ziferblat is launching a consultation with businesses and residents of MediaCityUK, so the ideas

and requirements can be incorporated into its interior design.

Colin Shenton, CEO of Ziferblat UK and Ireland, said: “We are really excited to be launching the MediaCityUK Ziferblat in early 2017 and bringing our unique offering to the hub of digital and media creatives who live and work there. It’s important to us that every branch is different and meets the requirements of those visiting us, which is why we are taking this collaborative approach and consulting occupiers and residents before commencing the fit-out – we’re open to ideas and welcome feedback.”

Ziferblat MediaCityUK will be the brand’s 17th branch internationally, with plans for more venues in Manchester and across the UK within the next 12 months.

The Tomorrow building, which launched at the end of September, comprises eight floors of creative workspace and a 112-bed Premier Inn over a further four floors.

In addition to the Ziferblat letting, agreements have been reached with several other companies, including digital and tech agencies to occupy space, which will be announced later this year.

To register interest in Tomorrow, please email lynn.haime@mediacityuk.co.uk

Award winning eye care in the heart of Hale Barns State of the art technology in diagnosing symptoms from diabetes to glaucoma, dyslexia to cataracts.

Cheshire Eye Care, 311 Hale Road | Hale Barns | Cheshire | WA15 8SS T: 0161 980 0860 | www.cheshireeyecare.co.uk

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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S L AT E R A N D G O R D O N B U S I N E S S L E G A L S E R V I C E S

Yet another award for Tsiantar Architects!

Tsiantar Architects has won a prestigious design award for Best Luxury New Build Home at this years’ Northern Design Awards. The house is a magnificent Victorian-style family home with lots of modern touches.

The awards ceremony was held at the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds, a very fitting setting for hundreds of leading designers to gather on Armistice Day. Well done, Tsiantar Architects. Another award to add to their collection!

Christmas comes early to Victor’s

Marketing Profile – the PR, marketing and events company – recently held a drinks reception at Victor’s eatery in Hale and, with Christmas just around the corner, the event took on a festive theme. The menus for the season were unveiled and Victor’s announced that it would be supporting local children’s charity – the Children’s Adventure Farm Trust (CAFT) – this Christmas and hosting a special American-themed Santa breakfast in December. Local law firm, Blackstone Solicitors, also agreed to get involved by supporting the event with gifts.

During the evening, local Hale businesses were also encouraged to get involved in the village Christmas lights. A contribution of £75 per business has been suggested, plus the option for a tree at £85 each. To get involved, please contact the Hale Business Association.

Barbara Hallwood and Kate Gerbich from Marketing Profile with members of the Victor’s team.

Altrincham writer’s debut novel nominated for award

Jacques Tsiantar, 23, is up for a top literary award run by Manchester Metropolitan University and Liverpool John Moores for his short debut novel, Ruin.

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December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

Launched in 2014, The Novella Award aims to find the best up-and-coming writer of a short novel. It is awarded to a previously unpublished work of fiction, between 20,000 and 40,000 words in length.

The former Altrincham Grammar School for Boys pupil said: “When I found out I was shortlisted, I was thrilled. It was great to receive an affirmation that what I was doing was worthwhile.

“Ruin was inspired by a short story I wrote about a year prior to the novella’s completion. It deals with similar issues; the destructiveness of obsession, neglect and lack of consent. The antagonist Sylvie

was created in that short story and was a character in my head for a long time.

“Writing about her was not only cathartic, but also revealed things I did not necessarily expect to express. For a long time, I didn’t know what the message of Ruin was, but, now that I have had time away from it, I see that it was inspired by a desire to express the ways in which a person can become evil.”

The winning novella will receive a £1,000 cash prize and publication by award-winning Scottish independent publisher Sandstone Press. The runner-up is awarded £500 and a reader’s report.

Choose Marilyn Stowe and her Cheshire team, part of the UK’s largest specialist Family Law firm Marilyn Stowe is the senior partner at Stowe Family Law leading her handpicked team of talented lawyers at the UK’s largest specialist family law firm.

The firm specialises in all areas of family law, including divorce, children issues, finances, cohabitation disputes, grandparent’s rights, pre and post-nuptial Agreements.

The firm has a Wills and Probate department which also deals with disputes over estates.

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S L AT E R A N D G O R D O N B U S I N E S S L E G A L S E R V I C E S

The Village Screen shows Home Alone and Elf at Manchester’s iconic Victoria Baths

Sheffield-based The Village Screen is hosting two pop-up cinema events at the stunning Grade II-listed Manchester Victoria Baths on Friday 9th and Saturday 10th December, screening Home Alone on the Friday evening and Elf on the Saturday evening, 6.30pm-10pm.

Both events will kick off with music by local DJs and street food by Dim Sum Su and Proove Pizza, plus a fully-stocked bar serving Prosecco, wines and craft beers.

Audiences will be seated on beautiful vintage deckchairs in the gala pool, as well as on the mezzanine level above, to watch the films on a 16ft screen.

The Village Screen has been transforming the pop-up cinema scene in Sheffield over the past 18 months, screening iconic films on car park rooftops, in outdoor swimming pools, disused warehouse spaces and woodland areas. After the successful screening of Jaws at Victoria Baths in September, they are excited to be returning for Christmas and looking forward to turning the baths into a festive cinema.

£60,000 Children in Need cash boost for Altrincham charity

The Counselling and Family Centre in Altrincham is celebrating after receiving £60,060 from Children in Need, earmarked to support 360 children over the next three years and helping to meet the increasing demand for the charity’s services.

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December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

Both Home Alone and Elf are classified PG. Pool-level tickets are £14.50 for adults (16+) and £11.50 for children and students. Mezzanine-level tickets are £13.50 for adults (16+) and £10.50 for children and students. There is a minimum age of 12 for both events and children between 12 and 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

You can find out more about these events and buy tickets at thevillagegreenevents.co.

Centre Manager, Jo Allen, said: “We could not continue to reach out to the families and young people around the Altrincham area without the support of funders such as Children in Need, and our amazing team of counsellors and volunteers. The grant will help us change the lives of even more people and give them the support they need, when they need it the most.”

The Children in Need funding will not only allow the charity to meet the growing demand for counselling support at its centres in Altrincham and Timperley, but also offer two new services. The local charity’s counsellors will work with the Trafford Domestic Abuse Service to offer specialist counselling sessions for children who have witnessed or been victims of domestic abuse.

They will also run a training course and peer support group for teenagers affected by bullying, which will focus on building confidence and peer support.

For more information on all courses offered by The Counselling and Family Centre, visit thecfc.org.uk or call 0161 941 7754

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Cooking Together at Food Sorcery

Food Sorcery joined forces with Creamline Dairies to host a Creamline ‘Cooking Together’ evening.

Attending the fun and food-filled night at the Food Sorcery Cookery School was winner of our Creamline competition, Maria, who brought her daughter along, so they could spend time together learning and cooking. Salutions was also in attendance and we cooked pickled garden salad, stuffed chicken with garlic butter rolled in Panko breadcrumbs, ravioli stuffed with mushrooms and spinach, and bread and butter pudding with clementine.

We picked up lots of tips and tricks, like how to make and roll pasta to the perfect thickness, and how to chop an onion without your eyes watering, as well as understanding the difference between breadcrumbs and Panko Japanese breadcrumbs, which give a much crunchier texture.

The ingredients used during the evening are all available to buy from creamline.co.uk and delivered straight to your door.

Food Sorcery’s mission is to give people the confidence to cook more – for fun, for health, for life! We love this ethos and believe that, once you learn the art of stress-free shopping and cooking, everyone benefits. All recipes and methods can be found at foodsorcery.co.uk/blog-timeline

Culture Crawl was a huge success

More than 140 walkers took part in Culture Crawl, the first fundraising walk for Maggie’s Manchester, the new cancer support centre in the grounds of The Christie hospital.

The centre offers free practical, emotional and social support to people with cancer and their families.

Exploring the cultural gems of Manchester, highlights of the 10k twilight route included: a live drawing and special exhibition at the Whitworth Art Gallery; a visit to the Coroner’s Court at the London Road Fire Station; and an atmospheric recital at the Royal Northern College of Music. Tasty Indian street food from the Bollywood Experience kept walkers refueled throughout the evening. The crawl ended at Chetham's School of Music, where a celebratory glass of fizz and medal were handed to participants, and lanterns dedicated to walkers’ loved ones flickered in the night.

The walkers raised over £15,000 for Maggie’s Manchester. www.maggiescentres.org/ccmanchester

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December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

Salutions Publications | Salutions Live!

Winter Wonderland

Charity Ball 2016 Over 300 guests gathered at The Midland hotel in Manchester for Salution’s annual charity Winter Wonderland Ball, and more than £16,000 was raised for Beechwood Cancer Care.

“This was our 16th ball, with over £100,000 being raised for charity over the past 14 years. A huge thank you to: everyone who bought tickets, donated prizes or helped on the night; Darren Proctor for being the host with the most; Monir Ali for travelling from St Albans to take wonderful photos and the video, and for donating money raised through online photo sales to Beechwood; and a special thank you to our sponsors United Airlines, Pabla+Pabla and Kissdental – without you all, this event wouldn’t have been possible.”

Beverley & Salim x

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Mike Browne & Cristina Pinon

Lynn Sullivan, Beverley Uddin-Khandakar & Margaret Brobbin

Sophie Dixon & Antony Waring

Dr Bilal Bhatti & Tazeen Usmani

Stacey Forsey, Safi Uddin & Seema Malhotra

Lynn & Mike Sullivan

Sue Groutage & Phillip Valentino

Phillip Glenn & Emma Curnow

Angela & Warren Gray

Mike & Margaret Brobbin

Tony Q’Aja, Julie Suzuki & Sebastian Pollitt

Abdul, Safi & Jennifer Uddin with Nadi Choudhury

Kiran Pabla, Kirsy Buckley & Christian Potter

David Leach, Salim Uddin-Khandakar, Mandy Nelson & Julie Cuddy

Mandy Nelson & Nadir Choudhury

Stacey Forsey & Lauren Stone

Gav Roberts, Dani Gray, Oliver Gray & Ellen Fitzmartin

Salim & Beverley Uddin-Khandakar with Stacey Forsey & Seema Malhotra

Safi Uddin, Sophie Dixon & Anthony Waring

Jane & Ian Mackie

Zarina Ahmed, Ziara Siddique & Don Gibbs

Julie Cuddy, Roy & Myrna Dixon with David Leach

Raj & Susma Basnet

Shruti Passi & Ashley Hunt

Nadine Ferguson & Dr Nyla Raja

Salim & Beverley Uddin-Khandakar with Scott Cooke & Angela Gray

Dave Walton celebrates winning flights to New York with Jane Beeley & Darren Proctor

Jane Nicholson & Joanne Navin

Colette Wynne & guests

Karina Jadhav & Seema Malhotra

Salim & Beverley Uddin-Khandakar

Ziara Siddique & Beverley Uddin-Khandakar

Fay Wertheimer & Dr Bilal Bhatti

Scott Cooke with friends

Jane Beely & Hulya Curtis

Ziara & Randy Legal with friends

Victoria Hinksman & Paul Harris with guests

Emma Curnow, Jane Beeley & Hulya Curtis

Beverley & Salim Uddin-Khandakar with guests

Salim Uddin-Khandakar, Julie Cuddy & David Leach

Dr Nafees Zakir with friends

Mandy Nelson & friends

Chantelle Scott & Jo McGleneghan

Leigh Cassidy

Lisa King-Knights, April Stobart, Lucy Cowgil, Shruti Passi & Ashley Hunt

Mujib Noor, Salim Uddin-Khandakar & Umran Rawthore

Salim & Beverley Uddin-Khandakar with Kiran Pabla, Lauren Stone & Danielle Buck

Lydia Atwood, Shivy Conroy & Cherie Nichols

Seema Malhotra & Beverley Uddin-Khandakar

Lianne Carter & Amanda Bartley

Darren Proctor & Floyd Pantry

Salim & Beverley Uddin-Khandakar with Monir Ali

Joe & Julie Cuddy

Helen Sterling-Holt & Karina Jadhav

Suresh & Anita Ruia

Paul & Claire King

Salutions Publications | Local News

Janine Watson-Cunningham & Darios Cunningham

Nigel & Catherine Reed

Penny Lynch & Hari Pabla

Emma Murray & Darren Gyte

Aubrey & Shashi Rawal

Salim Uddin-Khandakar with Ashley Hunt

Linda & Ian Cooke

Yasmin Gill & Kate Flemming

$1 business billion Building a

What, you may ask, does a philosophy degree have to do with delivering pizza?

Or a top-notch Thai green curry come to that.

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December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

G

ood question. But it's a connection which Mancunian business phenomenon Dan Fruhman has played a key part in; building a $1bn enterprise virtually from scratch in an astonishingly short time.

And he's just turned 25.

Dan, who lives in Hale Barns, is Regional Manager of Deliveroo, the restaurant meal delivery service that's expanding at an incredible pace. When he launched the business in Manchester just 18 months ago, his team were making close to 1,000 deliveries a quarter from a handful of partner restaurants.

Today, the number of deliveries has reached six figures thanks to an ever-growing roster of participating eateries; more than 500 across the North West and new territory Yorkshire. Remarkably, when Dan joined Deliveroo in 2014 – "there were fewer than ten of us at the time, working out of a shack in Cleveland Street, London" – it was his first job after leaving university, apart from brief research internships in a London law firm and a New York tech business.

By Ray King

LIFE'S PHILOSOPHY The ex-pupil of the highly-rated King David High School in Manchester read Philosophy at Cambridge University. I ask him where he thought his studies might take him, career-wise, back then: "I wanted my education to enable me to look at things from different perspectives, and studying philosophy was the means to do that,” says Dan. “I didn't do it because I wanted to be a philosopher, but because the subject gives you the tools of rigour and analysis in your thinking that can be applicable in any situation in life. I always wanted to go into business and I was sure that these tools, and the ability to think strategically, would be very valuable. After I graduated with the degree in philosophy, I did another degree at the Cambridge Judge Business School, which provided practical and financial insights. I'd thought about working in a bank."

BROTHERS IN ARMS But when pushed on who or what has shaped his thinking most, Dan says, without hesitation, "my brothers". This isn’t surprising since both are also Cambridge graduates and trailblazers in their respective fields; one having achieved a PhD in quantum physics.

"We've been challenging each other for as long as I can remember,” continues Dan, “and I can’t think of anything that has had a bigger impact on the way I think. Whether we’re arguing about the possibility that we live in a simulated reality, or just debating the best food-stacking model, it’s heated, impassioned and deeply analytical."

Josh, the eldest, actually introduced Dan to William Shu, whom he met whilst building a tech business in a restaurant space in New York. Shu is an American-born former investment banking analyst who founded Deliveroo in London in February 2013 and spent the rest of the year driving his scooter around the capital in order to get a better understanding of the logistics required to build his business.

I had to ask if Dan saw a family venture in his future. He smiled and turned the conversation back to Deliveroo, possibly an indicator of what’s to come.

Salutions Publications | People

TAKING A RISK The following year, Dan was on board. "It was a risk," he admits, "but I liked the founder, I liked the concept and I liked the product.

I asked myself 'why not take the leap?' – and I did. I helped launch Deliveroo in a couple of zones in London and, when the time came to launch in a city outside London, I came to Manchester to do it, because I knew the city well. Since then, we've gone into Liverpool and Leeds… a total of ten towns and cities in the North West and Yorkshire, soon to be 13. It's been fascinating to see the business grow so quickly."

The idea of delivering food from restaurants is not exactly new.

"People used to order by fax in the 1980s," says Dan, "and I know that Will had the business idea in his head for ten years. What's different today is the advent of technology. We may be part of the food industry, but technology is the foundation of our business. It makes the operation quick enough and cheap enough to provide high-quality food and high levels of customer service."

Dan reveals that the average time between an order being placed and its delivery to the customer's home is just 32 minutes.

When he first brought Deliveroo to Manchester, Dan was putting in daily 12-hour shifts, seven days a week; touring favourite restaurants and selling the concept to them: "No-one had heard of Deliveroo then, but they have now. We thought it might take a while for people to get it, but the simple concept of providing customers' favourite restaurant food, hot and fresh, to their homes in around 30 minutes has caught on really quickly."

COMPLEX ALGORITHMS Now the Manchester office, relocated to the spectacularlyrefurbished historic Royal Mills in Ancoats, has ten full-time staff overseeing an army of over over 500 riders with their bikes and scooters, all equipped with smart phones that connect them to customers and partner restaurants in an instant.

As the business expands across the globe – Dan will soon be visiting the Deliveroo office in Hong Kong – the company's expert techies are constantly seeking new ways to improve the complex algorithms (one of Dan's favourite words) of the operation, to make the process of ordering and delivery more precise. In another aspect of Deliveroo's scientific approach, Michelinstarred chefs are working at creating and developing dishes of high quality that will be suitable for delivery.

"What I enjoy most," says Dan, "is the fact that this is such a growing business and such a young business. This is my region, but it's happening across the world and changing every day. It's cool."

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | People

SIMON BOOTH Foresight Wealth Strategists

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December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

O

nce Christmas is out of the way, then it’s time to make those all-important New Year’s resolutions. Research shows that improving fitness, losing weight and getting finances organised are three of the most popular.

Unfortunately, statistics show that only 75% of these resolutions are maintained across the first week – dropping to a poor 46% over 6 months. Fortunately, Foresight, the wealth strategists in Hale, can help with organising your finances. For 18 years, it has specialised in dealing with the more complex financial planning requirements of business owners, professionals and high-net-worth individuals who have assets in excess of £2 million.

Simon Booth, Managing Director of Foresight, says: “I think it would be fair to say that Foresight has been one of Hale’s best kept secrets. That’s the way that we’ve wanted it – our clients want a discreet, individual service. They rarely want to shout about their wealth. They don’t need to.” However, the Foresight team took the decision in 2015 to embark on a programme of controlled expansion.

“Our aim has never been to be the biggest – it has always been to be the best,” explains Simon. “We have built our reputation on personal service and exceptional customer service, and we are not prepared to compromise on this.”

Foresight has subsequently run monthly Masterclasses for Business Owners at The Mere Golf Resort & Spa. The masterclasses are intended to give entrepreneurs an insight in to how to improve their businesses, as well as to promote Foresight’s services.

“Mere epitomises our approach – stylish, effortless service – and we are pleased to be associated with them,” says Simon. “Our last masterclass highlighted the concept of marginal gains that enabled Team GB to have its best Olympics since 1908. We apply this to our business; to make the same incremental improvements that enable us to keep ahead. One thing you learn very quickly in our profession is that there are common issues with all businesses. Our experience of dealing with entrepreneurs puts us in good stead to give sound business advice. We take real pride assisting our clients to become even more successful.” Foresight has developed the Quantum Programme to formalise the advice process.

“We pride ourselves in treating every client as an individual and have developed a strong process-driven approach to ensure that all clients achieve The Edge – the effect of small marginal gains applied consistently over time,” says Simon. Foresight is fiercely proud of being both independent and Chartered.

“We value our independence strongly,” reveals Simon. “Despite an increasing trend for advisers to move towards a restricted advice model, we do not believe that fits with the ethos and needs of the type of client that we deal with.” So what is the difference between a wealth strategist and a traditional financial adviser?

Salutions Publications | People

“A wealth strategist’s aim is to get a client well-organised financially,” replies Simon, “but to then go that one step further.

As clients become more successful, their affairs also become more complex, to a point where they would benefit from dealing with a wealth strategist.

“More importantly, our approach delves into the places that other advisers just don’t reach. They cannot spend the time and don’t have the tools to do what we do.”

Simon explains that Foresight is unapologetically exclusive: “For the right people, our services are exceptional value for money. We will make dealing with your finances a pleasure again. We offer a complete service, ranging from our ‘bin bag approach’ – where we take all the financial paperwork away and file it for you, to regular Calibration Audit meetings to monitor the ongoing situation.”

Foresight has built up an enviable team from a variety of different sources, ranging from IT start-ups to the City of London.

“Having a wide breadth of experience means that we are highly trusted,” explains Simon. “We frequently get asked for advice and guidance in areas that extend beyond financial planning, such is the esteem that our clients place in their relationship with us.”

Foresight also takes social responsibility seriously, with Simon explaining that, at this time of year, “you realise how lucky you are and how privileged we are to live in such a beautiful area”.

Foresight supports Kibera in Need, sponsoring children’s education in the slums of Nairobi. They also actively support Mike Newman at the Speed of Sight charity. Mike is currently the fastest blind man in the world, having achieved Guinness World Records in cars, trucks, planes and boats. Foresight also sits on the trustee board for Emerge 3Rs, a local charity which distributes food, in conjunction with FareShare, to charities and community groups that use food to support people in need.

What would Simon like to find under the Christmas tree this year? “Definitely a gadget or two. I’m a sucker for new tech,” he smiles.

And, finally, what is his New Year’s resolution?

“Apart from the obligatory promise to go to the gym more, I intend to improve my pottery skills to a point where someone will buy it,” says Simon. “I would also like to take my stand-up comedy career further, but I’m certain no one will pay me for that yet! “2016 has been an exceptional year for Foresight – we have some fabulous clients and amazing staff. And 2017 is looking to be better still.”

Foresight Independent Financial Planning Ltd. 161 Ashley Road | Hale | Altrincham | Cheshire WA15 9SD t: 0161 926 9350 | hello@foresight-ifp.co.uk www.foresight-ifp.co.uk

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | People

Covering all aspects of the law It’s beginning to look at lot like Christmas at fast-growing Didsbury law firm Pabla+Pabla’s state-of-the-art offices in the extensively-restored Old Town Hall on Lapwing Lane.

Throughout December and January, brother and sister team Hari and Kiran Pabla, who brought their practice to Didsbury after 14 years of successful operations in Manchester city centre's Northern Quarter, will continue their open door policy… with an added yuletide twist.

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December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

Salutions Publications | People

POP IN FOR WINE AND PRIZES! Clients (current or potential) are invited to drop into the offices for a chat over a cup of coffee or glass of seasonal favourite, mulled wine. The firm is also staging a festive competition from the 14th December for children to take part in too. A number of baubles will be placed in a large jar and visiting little ones will be asked to guess exactly how many are in there. The winner (whose name will be announced on 23rd) will receive a large Christmas hamper full of treats and goodies.

This open invitation complements Pabla + Pabla's growing programme of legal services. Hari and Kiran were perhaps best known in the Northern Quarter for their expertise in road traffic accident and personal injury cases. But, since moving to Didsbury, they have spread their legal wings to encompass a wide range of legal issues that require high levels of skill and compassion, including family law, immigration, specialist personal injury, holiday sickness claims and…

By Ray King / Image Mike Browne

EMPLOYER AND PUBLIC LIABILITY The wider scope of the practice now embraces employer and public liability cases. A dedicated team of legal experts has been set up primarily to deal with EL/PL cases; for instance, acting on behalf of clients who have been unfortunate enough to be involved with accidents at work or public places, such as a supermarket or in the street. The specialist team will deploy its expertise to deal effectively and sympathetically with any personal injury claims other than those arising from road traffic accidents.

The team also has a subdivision that is responsible for dealing with illnesses and diseases sustained in the workplace, such as industrial deafness or repetitive strain injuries. Between them the team members have a vast experience in dealing with complex injuries, accidents and high value claims.

PLANS FOR THE FUTURE On top of current additions to the business, Pabla+Pabla has high hopes that 2017 will provide another year of further expansion and growth. Along with the recent launch of the firm's new website (pablasolicitors.co.uk), it is currently developing the ‘lodge’, an additional facility which is located directly across from the Old Town Hall and which will enable Pabla+Pabla to expand its legal teams. Plans are also being actively developed to create two whole new departments: one specialising in wills and probate; the second in conveyancing. Recruitment of expert staff to fill both new departments will take place in the upcoming year. The firm’s aims are ambitious, but Hari and Kiran are determined that Pabla+Pabla will be multidisciplinary law firm of the future – helping to protect clients and their families in all aspects of law.

RECRUITMENT Pabla+Pabla expects to have over 60 staff members by early next year and, to fulfil its ambitions, is currently recruiting for family law solicitors, immigration solicitors and senior/ junior legal accounts staff.

Anyone interested in working for the firm should send their CV to Lorraine@pablasolicitors.co.uk

The whole team at Pabla + Pabla would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and all the best for the future.

CREDIT HIRE The past 18 months have seen the creation and expansion of a specialist Credit Hire department. The department assists clients in ensuring that losses related to replacement vehicles (following road traffic accidents) are recovered on the best possible terms.

They work closely with national legal expenses insurers and major credit hire organisations, who place trust in the firm to ensure that their clients are afforded the best possible representation.

Pabla+Pabla's team has a strong reputation with third party insurers and solicitors for taking a strong yet practical approach to these matters; enabling them to litigate, if necessary, very swiftly and adopt a very proactive approach to achieve settlement thereafter.

If you have a credit hire business that you feel could benefit from this specialist service, please contact Head of Credit Hire Gareth Riddiford on 0161 446 1954 or Gareth@pablasolicitors.co.uk and he will be happy to discuss how his team can assist.

Go to pablasolicitors.co.uk for more information on their full range of legal services.

t: 0161 446 1122 | e: enquiries@pablasolicitors.co.uk Pabla+Pabla Solicitors. The Old Town Hall, Lapwing Lane, West Didsbury, Manchester M20 2NR

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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LOOKING

THE PART The easy way to find out what style of eyewear works best for you But from personal experience, Conor knows it is a struggle to find glasses that suit and that most opticians can leave you feeling uninspired.

Don’t expect a visit to the opticians at 82 King Street to include hours of browsing confusing racks of hundreds of similar-looking frames.

Instead, the team will guide you through the eyewear selection process. They have replaced painful trial and error browsing with a sleek, professional and enjoyable experience.

Conor Heaney of Jones And Co. Styling Opticians on King Street sees clients from many walks of life who want to find the perfect pair of glasses to wear every day and to serve many purposes.

For some, it’s about finding the perfect glasses to put on each morning and forget about (until, perhaps, someone pays you a compliment); for others, it’s about making a bold statement and wearing spectacles that get you stopped in the street.

When you first walk into the stylish practice in the former Bank of England building, you’ll notice there are only a handful of frames in a feature display. The extensive collection of individual eyewear is tucked away in drawers, to be unveiled later in the process. Conor knows that a personal eyewear styling consultation with one of his experienced team will take the anxiety and frustration out of choosing the right eyewear.

“We spend time with each of our clients to get to know what their day-to-day life entails and then select the most appropriate eyewear from our handpicked stock,” says Conor, who gained a First in optometry at UMIST. “By working this way, we can help our clients find the ideal eyewear for them – that suits their face and their personal style. Putting on the perfect pair each morning makes you look and feel great!”

Frames are sourced from boutique eyewear shows in Antwerp, Milan, Paris and Copenhagen. The Jones And Co. team of three optometrists and four professionallyqualified styling opticians travel the globe to discover the very best eyewear and bring it to Manchester. They take the time to analyse many factors when recommending the perfect eyewear – face shape, prescription, colouring and toning with skin and hair, and what the client does in everyday life; whether working or enjoying a more leisurely lifestyle.

SPECIAL OFFER Visit: www.jonesand.co.uk to request a voucher for a free styling consultation at Jones And Co. worth £37 and receive your free copy of Conor’s book The Definitive Guide to Choosing Glasses That Make You Look Good.

The first 20 people to visit the optician (located on King Street, next door to Belstaff and opposite Whistles) and mention this magazine will get a FREE £50 gift certificate towards a frame of their choice.

Jones And Co. Styling Opticians | 82 King Street | Manchester M2 4WQ | t: 0161 834 7798 30

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

Knitted Sequin Top £85 Phase Eight

Skull Wool Wrap £480 Alexander McQueen Available at Harvey Nichols

Lipsy Love Michelle Keegan AW16 High Neck Belted Knit Dress £45 Mint Metallic V-Neck Jumper £95 Reiss

Salutions Publications | Women’s Fashion

Silver Grey Biker Cardigan £99 Mint Velvet Available at House of Fraser

Grey Cold Shoulder Jumper £28 Miss Selfridge

Bird Print Sweater £26 Next

NEW YEAR, New Woolly Wardrobe

Winter White Jumper £75 French Connection

Long Cardigan £329 Jigsaw

Molly Sweater £70 Hobbs

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

By Emily Fitzgibbons

A New Year brings slightly warmer weather – warmer winter weather that is! So, dispose of those chunky wool pieces and replace them with some fresh lightweight knits.

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The Great Kathmandu Tandoori Restaurant

Award winning Nepalese & Indian Cuisine

Winners of the Hardens Observer Readers Choice for Indian Cuisine in the UK

20%

OFF

Total food bill Mon-Weds*

Now taking

Christmas bookings Discount for mid-week party bookings

Call for details

WEEKDAY LUNCH OFFER

Mon to Fri 12 noon - 2.30pm - £6.95

*(Excludes Bank Holidays, set menu’s, lunch menu’s and any other offer) Just mention Salution’s when booking!

FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE FOR HIRE www.greatkathmandu.com T: 0161 445 2145 or 0161 434 6413 140-144 Burton Road, West Didsbury M20 1JQ Open 7 days a week. Lunch 12 noon - 2.30pm & 6.00pm - Midnight

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December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

W

IN

Salutions Publications | Competition

a bespoke suit worth £699 from I AM SUIT

Salutions has teamed up with I AM SUIT, who have just launched the city’s first bespoke mobile tailoring company, to bring you an incredibly stylish competition.

Specialising in customised suits and shirts, I AM SUIT offers a brand-new approach to fitted clothing, which has been developed to make bespoke tailoring accessible to everyone.

I AM SUIT offers a large number of the finest quality materials, often surpassing competitors on the high street – with a great selection of patterns, colours and designs to suit the needs of every customer.

With bespoke suits from £395, there’s no excuse not to look your best.

For a chance to win, simply answer the following question:

How much does an I AM SUIT suit start from? A. £395 / B. £495 / C. £995 Email your answer and contact details to winner@salutions.co.uk, remembering to type ‘SUIT’ in the subject field.

Alternatively, post your answer to Salutions, 5 The Stables, Wilmslow Road, Didsbury, Manchester M20 5PG. The deadline for entries is 5th January 2017. Everyone who enters will receive a free consultation and £100 off a first suit order.

T&Cs apply. Don’t forget to include your name, address and contact number with your entry.

To book your free I AM SUIT consultation, visit: iamsuit.com | t: 07510 242 031 | e: book@iamsuit.com December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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The Christie Charity Ball

The Palace Hotel Saturday 18th March 2017 Join us for a spectacular and show-stopping evening while raising vital funds for cancer patients.

Expect a night of glamour, fine dining, top class entertainment and celebrity guests, all in the stunning newly refurbished ballroom of the Palace Hotel, Manchester.

For more information please call 0161 918 2418 or email specialevents@christies.org www.christies.org/thechristieball

Registered charity no. 1049751

Salutions Publications | Local News

Trend-setting Zürich A shopper’s paradise, a metropolis of the arts, home to legendary nightlife and with nature on the doorstep – little wonder Zürich’s way of life is frequently voted the best in the world.

Limmat Boat Cruise

The city of Zürich lies in the heart of Europe and at the centre of Switzerland, on the northern shores of Lake Zürich.

Its multi-cultural flair and the variety of leisure activities on offer attract guests from all over the world. Zürich is quick and easy to reach, whether by train, plane or car. Its international airport has direct connections with over 150 destinations. Just a 10-minute train ride from the airport, and situated right in the city centre, Zürich’s Main railway station is regarded as a central European railroad hub. More than 400,000 people live in this social, science and business centre. Thanks to its top-quality infrastructure, set amidst natural surroundings, it is a popular place for study and research. ETH Zürich is a science, technology, engineering and mathematics university and, to date, 21 Nobel Prizes have been awarded to researchers connected to it, including Albert Einstein, for his services to theoretical physics and his discovery of the law of the photoelectric effect.

Whether you’re in Zürich for a weekend or a week, you won’t be disappointed, as there’s plenty to see and do.

Just don’t forget to increase the limit on your credit card!

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Kameha Grand Zurich

Michelin Star YOU Restaurant

Puregold Bar

Space Suite

Kameha Spa

Smoking Room

Bedroom

L’Unico Restaurant

Salutions Publications | Travel

DESIGN HOTEL KAMEHA GRAND ZURICH Life is Grand A lifestyle hotel with impressive architecture, an extraordinary interior and, above all, heartfelt service.

Located in Glattpark, just 3km from Zürich Airport, 8km from the city centre, and with the metro on its doorstep, the Kameha Grand Zürich is a truly impressive hotel with extraordinary and outstanding contemporary architecture and interiors from world-renowned designer Marcel Wanders. The word Kameha is Hawaiian and means ‘the unique one’, referring to guests. And, just as unique, is their Italian restaurant concept of L’Unico – unique for YOU! ROOMS 245 rooms and suites integrate ‘Swissness’ in a charming way, and the highlight of their design is allusions to Switzerland as the country of the best chocolate makers and investors – so the separating wall to the bathroom suggests the structure of a chocolate bar and the door handles look like they come from a bank vault. 11 themed suites include: a Workout Suite with treadmill and weights; a Burlesque Suite with strong colours and various toys for a special night on which to let your fantasies run wild; a Space Suite that allows the guest to feel the fascination of outer space, complete with a floating bed, photos of the galaxy by the Hubble Space Telescope, orbiting space debris, floating cosmonauts, and models of rockets, literature, music and films; and the King Kameha Suite, offering a majestic atmosphere at an exclusive top floor location.

By Beverley Uddin-Khandakar

FOOD & DRINK Restaurant L’Unico delivers first-class service in a modern yet cosy atmosphere. A diverse selection of pasta, complemented with fine sauces, is on offer. Their own pasta manufactory and fresh preparation at the live cooking station create an exceptional experience in an Italian atmosphere. Fish and meat specialities are also available, with a variety of perfectly-matched Italian wines; ideal for a quick business lunch or a short break. Or if you fancy something different, try Michelin star restaurant YOU, that offers French cuisine based on regional products with influences from Far East.

PUREGOLD BAR Decorated with gold sequins, the Puregold Bar offers exquisite coffee specialities, a fine variety of cupcakes and finger food, outstanding cocktails and first-class long drinks. There are wireless PowerKiss cell phone charging stations integrated into the bar furnishings, and free WiFi too!

SMOKER’S LOUNGE Spendid, old English-style armchairs, dark parquet and muted lighting provide an exclusive setting for tobacco lovers and connoisseurs. A large selection of exquisite Cuban and Dominican cigars, the finest spirits, matured whiskies and full-flavoured Cognacs complete the wonderful atmosphere of this tranquil oasis.

SHISHA LOUNGE The finest shishas in an oriental design, as well as choice and tasteful tobacco. Enjoy Arabian beverages and a diverse selection of roasted nuts, while listening to soft music in an authentic ambiance.

KAMEHA SPA & FITNESS POWER HOUSE Customised spa treatments and therapies, tailored especially to your needs; enjoy a soothing sauna, pleasant sanarium and calming steam bath. If you feel active, you’ll find state-of-the-art training possibilities in the Fitness Power House. To support your training, special Well Fit dishes are available.

LIFE IS TRULY GRAND The literature states that everything the Kameha Grand Zürich team does is to delight, look after and please their guests. They create an unforgettable experience with warmth, passion and enthusiasm. This is so true. From the moment you walk through the door, you are greeted by genuine, sincere staff who can’t do enough for you. This high level of hospitality runs through every square inch of the hotel. Security is paramount. The lifts are operated by key recognition and your floor is selected automatically. No need to press any buttons here! The bed and pillows are extremely comfortable, the precision air conditioning keeps the room at an even temperature, and the electronic blinds mean that you can sleep all day, if you wish! The food is delicious, complemented by fine wines and the best cocktails. A short time in the Smoker's Lounge was pleasant, if only to sit by the open fire.

And the ‘Just for you’ button on the room phone is a great touch.

What more do you need?

KAMEHA GRAND ZURICH offers double rooms from £114 / 143 CHF per night. Based on two people sharing a double room.

Fly Manchester to Zurich on Swiss with flights from £224 return.

Visit: swiss.com Kameha Grand Zürich Dufaux-Strasse 1 | CH-8152, Zürich | Switzerland zurich@kameha.com | kamehagrandzuerich.com www.myswitzerland.com December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | Travel

Out and about in Zurich TRANSPORT With a ZürichCARD you can enjoy unlimited travel on public travel, as well as numerous discounts.

SHOPPING 150 years ago, part of the city’s fortifications were transformed into what is now arguably the most famous shopping road in the world – the Bahnhofstrasse. Zürich’s shopping mile has contributed largely to the city's reputation as an El Dorado for shoppers and is a top address for banks, exclusive fashion boutiques, department stores and street cafés.

ÜETLIBERG For a wonderfully relaxing break, you can take a train up the Üetliberg mountain – just 20 minutes from the city centre – and go for a walk or a bike ride, enjoying glorious views over the city, the lake and the Alps.

THE HISTORY OF SWITZERLAND Close to the Main railway station, the Swiss National Museum occupies a fairy tale castle that’s more than 100 years old and now features a brand-new extension. A permanent exhibition called ‘History of Switzerland’ brings the country’s past vividly to life with fascinating original artefacts. The park behind the museum is one of the most beautiful in the city.

KUNSTHAUS ZÜRICH The special exhibitions staged by Zürich’s Kunsthaus (art museum) have a world-class reputation. As well as the world’s most important and extensive body of work by Alberto Giacometti, it also includes collections by Edvard Munch and the Nordic Expressionists, and there’s Swiss painting and works from the classic modern period too.

Lindenhof shopping

THE CHARMING OLD TOWN The famous old town district of Niederdorf is affectionately known by locals as Dörfli (the ‘little village’). With its petite boutiques, antiquarian bookshops, craft studios, bars and cafés, it’s a delight to explore by day and by night, when the winding, car-free alleys burst into life. The Niederdorf also perfectly embodies the city’s unique charm. The Schober-Péclard boutique and confectioners is a listed building that stylishly combines all the elements that make a trip to Zürich so special: history, architecture and shopping.

THE CITY SEEN FROM THE WATER The glittering reflections of the sunlight, the splashing of the water, the scent of the fresh air; a cruise on one of the Limmat river boats is a treat for all the senses. The tour even takes in three stops on Lake Zürich.

ZÜRICH’S TOP DISH When in Zürich, be sure to sample its most famous dish – Zürcher Geschnetzeltes; sliced veal in a cream sauce and served with rösti. A particularly tasty version is prepared at the traditional Zunfthaus zur Waag, a historic guild house dating back to 1315.

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LINDENHOF Lindenhof is an oasis of tranquillity in the heart of Zürich. From this tree-shaded square, high above the Limmat river, you enjoy sweeping views across the rooftops of Zürich; taking in its churches, romantic old town, pretty lake shores – reaching all the way to the Alps. Directly below the Lindenhof, along the Limmat, stretches one of Zürich’s oldest and most picturesque quarters, the Schipfe – home to long-established workshops and small boutiques selling quality products ST. PETER CHURCH St. Peter church is the oldest parish church in Zürich, with the original 9th century foundation walls still seen today beneath the chancel. It also boasts the largest clock face in Europe. Until 1911, the church tower was used as a fire watch post. The clock face measures 8.7m in diameter. There are five bells dating from 1880 in the tower – the largest of which weighs over six tons without its clapper.

CLUBS Zürich boasts the highest density of clubs in Switzerland and, here, you can never turn up too late. From a house music party in the legendary Kaufleuten and 80s hits at Mascotte (the oldest club in the city), to a gay event at the Labor Bar – parties really get going after 11pm and continue into the small hours of the morning. There’s no such thing as official closing times here.

www.myswitzerland.com

Salutions Publications | Travel

Tourism roadshow Sri Lanka’s enduring popularity was demonstrated with record attendance at its recent UK roadshow for the travel trade. 150 agents attended the Sri Lanka Tourism events in Manchester, Birmingham and London, which brought the sights and sounds of this increasingly popular destination to the UK, and relayed the latest news and selling tips to the travel trade.

“Sri Lanka tourism surged to a new record high of 1.8 million arrivals in 2015, an increase of 17.8% over 2014. The UK accounts for 9% of arrivals, the third largest source market behind India and China, with 161,845 visitors in 2015, 12.3% up on 2014.” Stated the Honorary Counsel of Sri Lanka in the city of Manchester, Ricky Silva, in his welcome address.

“We were delighted to be able to host this series of trade events in the UK. Sri Lanka is now one of the most exciting destinations in the world, and the growth that we have experienced over the past two years has been really encouraging. The authenticity and uniqueness of the island’s offerings, in addition to its amazing value for money, appeal to the UK market.’’

According to Nalin Perera from the London Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, the roadshow was developed to further strengthen relations with the UK travel trade, and show agents the impressive range of experiences that Sri Lanka has to offer.

The roadshows were attended by over 50 members of the travel trade in each city, all of whom were warmly welcomed with Ceylon tea, canapés and the traditional lighting of the oil lamp ceremony.

Mr Perera said: “From the World Heritage Sites, pristine beaches and untamed wildlife hotspots, to world-famous tea plantations and Ayurveda spa treatments, Sri Lanka is one of the most diverse Asian destinations, with something for everyone.

The travel trade delegates then moved on to a business-to-business table-based networking session, where they could pick the minds of destination management companies, airlines and hotels, before breaking for delicious, aromatic Sri Lankan curry and wine. The evening concluded with a prize draw to win fantastic holidays to Sri Lanka.

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | Travel

Retreat to Ikos Think all-inclusive isn’t for you? Think again. Jill Nash explains why Ikos Olivia in Greece is the ultimate luxury family retreat.

STAY Ikos Olivia is one of two deluxe hotels situated in Halkidiki, northern Greece – both owned by Ikos Resorts.

Ikos Resorts is a rather impressive concept. All-inclusive holidays have historically had a poor reputation for quality and service, but Ikos challenges this on every level. The finelooking Ikos Olivia, complete with suites and bungalows, is elegant, stylishly decorated and surrounded by olive trees and immaculate lawns that lead to a long, beautifully-maintained, sandy beach. It’s set in 22 acres of evergreen landscape and, for the ultimate in health and relaxation, there’s a wellness spa

by Anne Semonin, beauty and fitness areas, and a separate adult pool.

Children of all ages are very well looked after, if parents are looking for a little respite. There’s a crèche (4 months-3 years), Heros Kids Club (4-11 years) and Just 4Teens (12+) – the latter two offering everything from watersports and crafting to games and cooking. Each of the clubs is operated

by UK-based Worldwide Kids, a professional childcare company employing only fully-qualified and experienced staff, so adults can enjoy peace of mind, as well as some ‘me’ time.

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There are a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets; select from one of 142 bedrooms and junior suites, or check into one of the resort’s 149 private bungalow suites. Opt for the latter and you can relax on your own private balcony or take a dip in your private pool, surrounded by beautifully-groomed gardens and generous terraces, which are perfect for outdoor dining. Each suite is kitted out with a fully-stocked complimentary mini-bar, a pillow menu and WiFi for those who want to stay connected.

The deluxe two-bedroom bungalows with a private pool can comfortably occupy six (two adults and four kids) and are ideal for larger families, due to the space and shaded outdoor area. The accommodation on offer is excellent value for money and, whilst excellent for families, are equally suited to luxury-seeking honeymooners or a group of friends opting for a short-haul escape. Ikos Olivia’s private beach is small, perfect and uncrowded; ideal for young children and couples.

The exclusivity of the beach is representative of the resort as a whole – providing the perfect retreat for those looking to get away from it all, yet only a few hours flying time from the UK. Ikos Resorts (ikosresorts.com) offers the ultimate lifestyle concept at Ikos Olivia from £149 per person per night, based on two people sharing a one-bedroom bungalow suite on an all-inclusive basis… complete with sea view!

Salutions Publications | Travel

DRINK & DINE

EXPLORE

The choice of restaurants at Ikos Oliva is phenomenal, not to mention international, and most of the dishes are created by Michelin-starred chefs. Ouzo is a contemporary authentic Greek restaurant, which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and you can also grab some snacks there too. Evening diners are advised to book ahead, as it’s a popular choice.

Meanwhile, the à la Carte restaurant Provence offers French dishes, each accompanied by carefully selected wine and served up in a quietly romantic setting. The inspired menu offers breakfast, lunch and dinner and, despite Provence being perfect for loved-up couples, children are more than welcome too! Anaya plates up Asian fusion food and – such is the demand for its delicious dishes – a table most definitely needs booking in advance. Set back from the beach and tucked inside an Asian-styled bungalow, this restaurant offers the finest and most innovative flavours from China, Thailand and India.

Prepare to be impressed.

Fusco is Michelin-starred chef Andrea Fusco’s eponymous Italian-style trattoria, giving guests the opportunity to savour Italian cuisine at its very best. With a refined ambience, this à la carte eatery sits enticingly on the beach front, offering both indoor and al fresco dining, along with a delightful selection of wines. The popular Flavors buffet offers a pick and mix of international dishes, served with a side order of sea views.

There are themed spreads too. You don’t need to book here, just grab a table and help yourself!

Situated on the naturally beautiful peninsula Halkidiki and encased by a sandy beach, Ikos Olivia is just a 10-minute walk from the charming town of Nea Moudania, where you will find a harbour and markets to explore if you fancy a break from the resort.

However, escaping the resort is rarely high on guests’ agendas – on-site, there are a wide range of activities on offer, making it almost impossible to leave. There are plenty of water sports – think windsurfing, kayaking, and snorkeling – and two floodlit tennis courts for sporty sorts to enjoy. If you’ve left your rackets at home, don’t panic, because you can hire everything you need from the well-stocked sports centre.

The resort also has a good range of bikes for children and adults, which are free to hire too, and there are plenty of pathways to explore. Additionally, you can participate in special entertainment programmes, sports and children’s activities. Fun group activities are organised daily, such as Boccia, Greek dance lessons, cooking lessons, Greek language lessons, aqua aerobics, darts, stretching and table tennis – or just rest up on a sun lounger and enjoy the delightful sunshine.

For late night drinking there is the Teatro theatre bar and the Lounge Bar. The live music menu includes everything from jazz to traditional Greek, whilst entertainment-wise, there are musicals, movies and children’s shows.

GETTING THERE easyJet (easyjet.com/en) and Jet2.com (Jet2.com) fly directly to Thessaloniki from Manchester on a weekly basis (from £33.49 one way). Flight time is approximately 3½ hours and transfer time to Ikos is approximately 50 minutes.

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | Travel

KENDAL CALLING Castle Green Hotel enjoy complimentary use of Pulse Health & Fitness, but it is recommended that treatments at the Green Rooms Spa (payable) are booked in advance.

To become a BW Premier Collection member, hotels must have at least four stars and score highly on TripAdvisor, as well as pass a strict quality assurance assessment.

STAYING

Garden View Rooms overlook the grounds and allow guests to look out onto Kendal Castle. Some are balcony rooms (with extra little luxuries), where you can sit outside, weather permitting! Highly recommended for a romantic break.

There are a variety of rooms, all with widescreen TV, tea and coffee making facilities, and free WiFi. All guests can

Not all of the Standard rooms are decorated in the new style, so it's advisable that you request one when booking.

By Beverley Uddin-Khandakar

Following a major refurbishment, which included a fresh, contemporary design for the two AA Rosette-winning Greenhouse Restaurant, and a £450,000 refit of 33 en-suite guest rooms. Castle Green rebranded earlier this year with its decision to move to the new Best Western Premier Collection brand - the only one of its kind in the Lake District.

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Executive Rooms, in the original part of the hotel, are perfect if you need extra space, and two out of the four rooms boast four-poster beds.

FOOD & DRINK The hotel’s celebrated Greenhouse restaurant reopened last year, following a major design overhaul. This heralded the launch of a new menu from award-winning chef and champion of local produce, Justin Woods.

The Greenhouse features a five-course tasting menu, alongside its individuallypriced items, with a selection of sharing dishes and a daily changing menu. All dishes are based around the excellent seasonal produce available on the restaurant’s doorstep. A great example is Justin’s signature dish (from the tasting menu), which features loin and shoulder of Cumbrian lamb, fondant potato, brown onion puree, Savoy cabbage, pumpkin and curd cheese – warming meal that is rich in flavour.

Salutions Publications | Travel

The Castle Green Hotel is set within 14 acres of natural gardens and woodland on the outskirts of Kendal town – known as ‘the gateway to the Lake District’.

Hotel restaurants aren’t everyone’s first choice when it comes to eating out, but The Greenhouse is different, with arguably the best views Kendal has to offer.

The Greenhouse Bar & Lounge is comfortably stylish, where you can put your feet up by the log burner. A full lounge menu is available from 11am till 10.30pm, or you can simply enjoy a coffee or a creative cocktail in a cosy booth with a loved one, family or friends.

Alexander’s offers all sorts of local draught beers and seasonal meals, and is a favourite for many locals and a pleasant surprise for hotel guests who want to sample the best of Cumbrian breweries.

We stayed for three days with our children. The hotel couldn’t be faulted in any way. It was clean, modern and set in beautiful grounds. The staff were extremely helpful, especially the reception staff, who were lovely. We enjoyed a late night drink in Alexander’s, a delicious meal in The Greenhouse, and there were plenty of options for breakfast. A visit to the spa after breakfast, for a massage and manicure, proved a perfect start to the day. The weather was glorious, so we opted out of a gym session and drove to Ambleside, where we enjoyed a leisurely stroll… and fish and chips!

If we could have changed anything, we would have preferred a room with a garden view, but the hotel was pretty full, as there were guests from a charity event and a wedding enjoying all it has to offer.

The hotel’s location is ideal for visiting Ambleside and Windermere, and definitely worth visiting for a weekend away.

Special Winter break offer from 1st December to 28th February for only £95 per couple per night bed & breakfast, with a £10 dining voucher per stay, subject to availability Bookable online or direct to the Hotel 01539 734000. www.castlegreen.co.uk/special-offers.aspx CASTLE GREEN HOTEL Castle Green Lane, Kendal LA9 6RG Tel: 01539 734000 Email: reception@castlegreen.co.uk castlegreen.co.uk

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Beachside location - ideal for family holidays or romantic walks in the moonlight.

Endless getaways And generations of family fun at The Warren For over 80 years, The Warren has been Abersoch’s ‘go to’ destination for countless families in search of quality time, relaxation, and a truly luxurious getaway.

fter a lifetime of holidays on the stunning Llyn Pennisula, Wilmslow lady, Mali Mackenzie, purchased her beloved luxury beachside lodge. Mali visits whenever she wishes, and is often accompanied by her children, grandchildren and friends.

“I like the whole thing,â€? Mali said. “I can sit RXWVLGH ZDWFKLQJ P\ JUDQGFKLOGUHQ SOD\ RQ WKH beach, building sandcastles. They can swim LQGRRUV DQG RXWGRRUV RU SOD\ ZLWK WKHLU IULHQGV who are also at The Warren. This summer has EHHQ DEVROXWHO\ VXSHU Âľ

“I just love it here,â€? says Mali Mackenzie, who bought her luxury beachside lodge on the QRUWK :HOVK FRDVW DW +DXOIU\Q¡V Ă DJVKLS UHVRUW The Warren.

Facilities range from four outdoor tennis courts, badminton or squash in the multi-purpose sports hall, a fully-equipped gym, sauna, spa

Mali’s deep affection for the Lynn Peninsula, where The Warren overlooks the wide sandy sweep of Cardigan Bay, goes back to her childhood days when she spent every summer in nearby Morfa Nefyn. “I love the lifestyle and being able to sit out on WKH SDWLR DQG ORRN RXW RYHU WKH HYHU FKDQJLQJ sea. It’s beautiful countryside and beautiful scenery – I think it’s fabulous.�

Good access to the beach makes launching a boat simple, but there are also two outdoor heated pools for the kids to splash about in, watched over by a bar for the adults, plus an all-season indoor heated pool.

and much more. A drive east brings visitors to the awe-inspiring Snowdonia National Park. “To me it’s all about having this beach in front RI \RX DQG WKH OLIHVW\OH Âľ H[SODLQHG 0DOL 7R Ă€ QG RXW PRUH DERXW endless getaways at The Warren please call 01758 649352 or visit the-warren.co.uk

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…

Image: Amara – For luxury living – Stylish designer homeware | Visit amara.com

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Salutions Publications | For Him Gift Guide

Ferrari Man in Red Gift Set Includes 100ml EDT with Deodorant and Body Wash £59 Available exclusively at House of Fraser

Lee Stafford Hair Growth Scalp Serum £9.99 Available from Boots and leestafford.com

Aramis Blockbuster Gift Set The ultimate collection for the Aramis connoisseur. £85 Boots

Ferrari iPhone Case & 75ml Red or Black EDT £38 Available exclusively at House of Fraser

Old Forester £29.99 Tesco

Hollister Wave Him Eau de Toilette 100ml Gift Set £35.50

Active Gold Collagen® Supports healthy skin, bones and muscle function 10 day supply £35.99 Available from:www.gold-collagen.com Boots, Harrods and Selfridges.

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Timex Weekender Fairfield £59.99 Available at www.hsamuel.co.uk December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

Woodford Reserve £31 Waitress / Sainsbury’s

Salutions Publications | Get Personal Gift Guide

Get personal this Christmas…

Christmas Slate Door Sign £9.95 www.thekitchengiftco.com

Personalised Christmas Bauble Decoration £9.95 www.thekitchengiftco.com

Personalised Wooden Christmas Gift Box www.gettingpersonal.co.uk

Personalised Christmas Tree Clay Ornament or Gift Tag www.etsy.com

Christmas Hessian Sack - Reindeer Mail £19.99 www.gettingpersonal.co.uk December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | Beauty Gift Guide

Lipsy Flawless Perfume £18 Available at Lipsy Stores

Benefit How to look The Best at Everything Complexion Kit £35 Debenhams

Marks & Spencer Autograph Compact Mirror £9.50

Joan Collins TEN EFFECTS Skin Treat & Make-up Fixer £20 Available at joancollinsbeauty.com

Marks & Spencer Limited Collection Glitter Party Eyes Set £12.50 50

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

esthechoc Cambridge Beauty Chocolate £42.50 for 21 days supply Available from beautyisskindeep.com

Marc Jacobs Daisy Dream Eau De Toilette 50ml Gift Set £55.50 The Fragrance Shop

Dr. Bronner’s Peppermint Lotion £7.45 Dr. Bronner’s Lip Balms £2.99 www.drbronner.co.uk

NAILS INC Spray can Nail Polish Limited Edition Good as Gold £10 available from all Nails Inc bars and NailsInc.com

Salutions Publications | Beauty Gift Guide

Gold Collagen® Hydrogel Mask Delivers healthy-looking and hydrated skin 1 pack with 4 masks £19.99 Available from www.gold-collagen.com or www.boots.com

Dermalogica Age Reversal Eye Complex offers a more powerful way to reverse the signs of ageing around the eye area. £59.40 www.dermalogica.co.uk

Michael Kors Midnight Shimmer Eau de Parfum £59 100ml £82 House of Fraser

AVEDA Stress-fix Handpicked with Love is a brand new gifting service available in-store and online, where guests can curate a beautiful and personalised gift box with customised gift.

Visit avedagift.co.uk

Murad Merry & Beautiful Gift Set AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisture and Rapid Collagen Infusion. £60 | Worth £121.50 Christian Dior La Collection Privee Ambre Nuit 125ml £200 / 250ml £290 / 450ml £405 dior.com

Shavata Brow Strengthener £18 Available at Shavata Brow and Beauty Bars or shavata.co.uk

Red Carpet Manicure Starter kit £89.95 and gel polishes £12.95 each Available from John Lewis www.johnlewis.com and www.redcarpetmanicure.co.uk

MURAD Eye Lift Firming Treatment Delivers younger looking eyes in an instant £45 Available at John Lewis and House of Fraser December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | Pet Gift Guide

Cat Scratching DJ Deck £19 Red Candy www.redcandy.co.uk

four r u o y r o eed f n u o y g n s! a m t s Everythi i r h this C d n e i r f legged

Cloud 7 Small Grey Canvass Dog Carrier £229 Amara Reindeer Antlers £6 Barkers of Wilmslow barkersshopfordogs.co.uk

Fair Isle Gilet £20 Barkers of Wilmslow barkersshopfordogs.co.uk

Dog Biscuit Wreath £20 The Great Gift Company

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Posh Pooch Pet Bed £345 The French Bedroom Co www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Salutions Publications | Can’t decide Gift Guide

Lipsy Love Michelle Keegan Lace Choker Body £45 Lipsy

GODIVA 32 Piece Assortment Gift Box £40 Available from all Godiva stores and at www.godivachocolates.co.uk

Can’t decide what to buy?

Then play safe and buy it all…

Red Hilton Bag £175 Rumpus Resort, Wilmslow www.rumpusresort.com

ROTARY Les Originals Ultra-Slim The Two-Tone Timepiece £289 www.rotarywatches.com

ROTARY Les Originals Ultra-Slim The Gold Timepiece £299 www.rotarywatches.com

Food Sorcery Gift Voucher Encourage your foodie friends to unleash their inner Chef with a Food Sorcery Cookery School voucher!

We believe that everyone can cook from healthy to gourmet, novice to experienced.

The perfect gift with fun guaranteed. From £25 to £150. Check food sorcery.co.uk or Call 0161 706 0505 December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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New Year’s Eve

The Bridgewater Hall International Concert Series 16|17

at The Bridgewater Hall

Night Oscars

The Choir of King’s College Cambridge Stephen Cleobury conductor Tuesday 13 December 7.30pm A programme of festive music from the choir that made singing part of everyone’s Christmas

Craig Ogden’s Guitar Weekend Friday 20 – Sunday 22 January See website for full listing of performances, workshops and foyer activities

A at

St Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra Yuri Temirkanov conductor Nicolai Lugansky piano Friday 27 January 7.30pm

the

Manchester Camerata

A Russian programme of fine melodies and vivid colour

Tim Redmond conductor Louise Dearman & Oliver Tompsett soloists Saturday 31 December 2016

Box Office: 0161 907 9000 www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Box Office: 0161 907 9000 www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

COMPETITION

Win a Christmas Party Night at the Best Western Cresta Court hotel Celebrate the Christmas season in style with a very special competition courtesy of the Best Western Cresta Court hotel in Altrincham.

Throughout December, it’s carnival time at the Cresta Court, where you can dance, dine and celebrate with all your favourite festive fairground games and attractions. Salutions is giving you the fabulous opportunity to join in the fun, by winning a table for ten people at the lively festive party night on Friday 16th December!

The prize includes a three-course meal, half a bottle of wine per person or a bucket of beers for ten, plus amazing entertainment. After dinner, you can enjoy all the fun of the fairground, including games, stalls and dancing into the night with a local DJ. The party night menu is a Christmas season highlight and includes a selection of mouth-watering festive treats, such as winter warmer vegetable soup, slow-roasted supreme of fresh chicken or wild mushroom stroganoff. As if this wasn’t tasty enough, there’s a selection of desserts to follow, including traditional Christmas pudding or mince pies.

To enter, all you have to do is answer the following question:

Which of these is a traditional Christmas drink? a. Mulled wine b. White wine spritzer c. Pimms Email your answer, complete with your contact details, to winner@salutions.co.uk, stating Cresta Court in the subject field. Alternatively, send your answer and contact information on a postcard to: Salutions, 5 The Stables, Wilmslow Road, Didsbury, M20 5PG. The closing date for entries is 11th December 2016.

Terms & Conditions: Prize includes three-course meal for ten people and half a glass of wine or bottle of premium beer per person. Valid on Friday 16th December 2016 only. Prize subject to availability, is non-transferrable, no cash alternatives available and Editor’s decision is final.

Visit cresta-court.co.uk, tweet @CrestaCourt or call 0161 927 7272 54

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

IN W TV Studios Global Entertainment is proud to announce the release of

COLD FEET SERIES 6 AVAILABLE ON DVD AND DIGITAL DOWNLOAD NOW

TO WIN yourself a DVD just answer this simple question: Where is Cold Feet set?

A. Didsbury B. Dewsbury C. Derby

Email your answer and contact details to winner@salutions.co.uk, remembering to type ‘COLD FEET’ in the subject field. Alternatively, post your answer to Salutions, 5 The Stables, Wilmslow Road, Didsbury, Manchester M20 5PG. The closing date is 31 December 2016.

“It’s wonderful to have Cold Feet back.”

- The Times -

Thirteen years after this BAFTA award-winning series earned a place in television history, we return for more heartfelt, truthful, comedy drama amidst the lives of our favourite couples. Older, but not necessarily wiser, the gang are reunited when Adam (James Nesbitt) returns to Manchester from working abroad to make an announcement. However, not everyone is as thrilled as he is. Pete (John Thomson) and Jenny (Fay Ripley) are struggling with their mortgage, victims of the economic downturn, David's (Robert Bathurst) marriage to his divorce lawyer, Robyn, has run its course and Karen (Hermione Norris) who initially appears to be the only one sorted, isn't far from her kids flying from the nest and hitting a glass ceiling at work.

So what's next?

Follow the highs and lows of these much loved characters as they, like us, continue to find their way in life.

Cold Feet Series 6 is distributed by ITV Studios Global Entertainment and is available to pre-order from Amazon.co.uk and own on iTunes. £24.99.

This Christmas shop Altrincham.

From the moment the lights start to twinkle, Altrincham comes into its own, and this year promises to be the best yet!

N

When it comes to Christmas shopping, Altrincham’s unique mix of top high street brands, niche independent retailers and the best festive markets around makes it the obvious choice.Parking is affordable (just 50p for two hours and free all day on Sundays) and access by public transport is quick and easy, arriving right in the heart of the town. ow in their fifth year, Altrincham’s Great British Christmas Markets (every Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday from 15th November to 23th December) are hugely popular and a must-visit over the festive season.

Wander around the distinctive stalls selling must-buy (or eat!) items, including speciality food and drink, artisan gifts, vintage fashion, mid-century furnishings and fabulous Christmas decorations.

High-quality independent retailers are back in Altrincham, with gift, home furnishings, art and jewellery stores ideal for finding that one-off Christmas gift. The high street has seen a resurgence too, with recent openings including Paperchase, The Entertainer toy shop and JD Sports joining established favourites, such as House of Fraser, Debenhams, Marks & Spencer, Next, H&M, Monsoon, River Island, Waterstones and more.

Thursdays will also see late night shopping until 8pm, complete with special in-store offers, events and entertainment. And it’s not just about the shops. Altrincham’s bar and restaurant scene is flourishing, with December alone seeing the opening of a new French bistro, Spanish tapas bar and independent microbrewery and restaurant. So, when the shopping’s in the bag and it’s time to relax, there’s no better place to be.

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Altrincham’s unlimited

this Christmas!

Star Decoration £12.95 Homebird | 1 Stamford New Road

Nail Polish £12 each Idaho | 56 Greenwood Street

Norse Beard Oil £16 Idaho | 56 Greenwood Street

Leaf Necklace £20 Edit & Oak | 4 Greenwood Street

Lampe Berger Paris | Botania £85.50 Vintage Angel Design | 5 Moss Lane

Edit & Oak Candles £12 Edit & Oak | 4 Greenwood Street

Kate Mack Red Bow Perfection Dress £66.00 Bumkins Designer Kids | 11 Moss Lane

Calla Lily Inspired Graduated Necklace. Sterling Silver £435 Diadem Jewellery | 55 Stamford New Road

French Angel Bulldog Cushion £21.95 Vintage Angel Design | 5 Moss Lane

Coming to Altrincham this Christmas and want to find out more?

See Altrincham’s new website altrinchamunlimited.co.uk for ideas, information and inspiration.

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | Home and Garden

Glass Teapot with Tea Egg £51.95 Menu Available at Harvey Nichols

Retro Slush Maker £64.95 Prezzybox prezzybox.com

ALL NEW APPLIANCES

Give your kitchen a New Year revamp and wow guests with your fresh, new, up-to-date appliances.

Squirrel Nutcracker £69 Available at www.black-by-design.co.uk

4 Slot Glitter Toaster £38 Next

Tassimo by Bosch T12 Vivy Hot Drinks Machine £39.99 Argos argos.co.uk 58

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

By Emily Fitzgibbons

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IN

Salutions Publications | Competition

Win this stunning ‘Squaro Edge’Quaryl Bath Tub We have teamed up with Atlas Bathrooms to give one lucky reader the chance of winning this stunning Villeroy & Boch ‘Squaro Edge’ Free-Standing, Quaryl Bath Tub worth £3000 Quaryl is unique The elegant design of Squaro Excellence features a bold surface design with precise, delicate lines and atmospheric shadow effects. Natural quartz stone and the variability of acrylic resin symbiotically combined for exceptional quality.

Quaryl is the basis of innovative products and designs; it is impact and scratch-resistant, easy to clean and enthuses

customers with its pleasant, warm feeling on the skin, and meets highest wellness requirements. Ultimate bathing pleasure developed exclusively by Villeroy & Boch, Atlas’s fabulous bathroom showrooms are amongst the largest and best in the country with prices, like for like, that are second to none.

To enter the competition, simply answer the following question:

Atlas Bathrooms have showrooms in Huddersfield, Warrington and where else?

A. Manchester | B. Madrid | C. Munich Please send your entry, along with your name, address and phone number via email to winner@salutions.co.uk stating Atlas in the subject field. Alternatively send a postcard to Atlas Bathrooms competition, Salutions, 5 The Stables, Wilmslow Road, Didsbury, Manchester M20 5PG. The closing date is 31 January 2017. See website for full terms and conditions.

For more information visit Atlas Bathrooms Newton St, Stretford, Manchester M32 8LS | atlasbathrooms.co.uk | 0161 953 4482

*Prize excludes installation. Includes special waste system or waste filler system.

All entrants will receive a £100 off voucher when they spend over £1000 at Atlas Bathrooms, valid until 28 Feb 2017.

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

59

Visit the latest Villeroy & Boch collection at our Warrington showroom. Take advantage of great promotional deals in our Winter Sale.

Manchester Showroom

Warrington Showroom

Newton St | Manchester | M32 8LS

199 Warrington Road | Penketh | WA5 2RX

sales@atlasbathrooms.co.uk

warr@atlasbathrooms.co.uk

0161 864 3610

01925 720 220

Showrooms open Monday – Friday 9am-5pm & Saturday 9am-4pm Xmas Opening Hours 28th, 29th & 30th Dec 10am-4pm.

Normal Trading Hours Resume 3rd Jan. Friday 23rd Dec is our last day before Xmas

www.atlasbathrooms.co.uk

@atlasbathrooms

atlasbathroomsandtiles

SALE WINTER STARTS WEDS 28TH JAN

25% off RRP on most product ranges and 60% off RRP for Ex-display products.

Please visit our Manchester or Warrington Showrooms

Salutions Publications | People

The Kitchen Gallery The small showroom with the big reputation Father and son team Jonathan and Richard Coupe have been at the helm of The Kitchen Gallery for over 20 years. We chatted to Richard and asked him about the extensive world of kitchens, and also what it’s like to work with his dad.

By Victoria Hinksman

As we all know, the kitchen really is the heart of the home and, over the last few years, Richard says that he has seen a huge rise in the number of people wanting to spend time and money designing their perfect bespoke kitchen. With people spending from £7,000 to sometimes in excess of £25,000, it’s so important to know that you have the right team creating it for you.

Being a small, local business based in Timperley, The Kitchen Gallery appeals to many of us nowadays who are keen to ‘shop local’. With trust in some of the bigger brands dwindling, people are turning to local, trustworthy businesses for the bigger jobs. Jonathan and Richard oversee each project from start to finish.

From the initial sales presentation to the design and eventual fitting of your kitchen, they are there every step of the way. The kitchen fitters employed by The Kitchen

Gallery are some of the best in the business and have been with Jonathan and Richard since day one, so you know you’re getting quality work from a quality team.

As for father and son working together, Richard says it works well, “We are very similar in personality and in the way we work and think, so that makes a good partnership. If it were either my brother or sister working with Dad, it wouldn’t work, we just work well together and most importantly, we get on.”

There are lots of things to look for when searching for someone to design and fit your new kitchen, so we asked Richard what his top tips would be.

Obviously, personal taste has to be a huge factor, but the biggest tip that Richard gave us was to ask for recommendations. Do your research, it’s so important; speak to friends, speak to family, ask your

neighbours, but always go with a person or company that someone else has used before. It’s such an integral part of your decision and, as Richard proudly told us, that is where a lot of The Kitchen Gallery’s business comes from – recommendations from other happy customers.

Another key thing to think about when planning your new kitchen is how you use that room – do you use it as a family?

Do you entertain a lot? Really try and understand what it is you actually need from that room, and then tell Jonathan and Richard, and they can help you with the design process.

The main thing to remember when choosing a company to design and fit your new kitchen is that you have to trust them.

With years of experience and a great family behind it, The Kitchen Gallery really is the small showroom with the big reputation.

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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T T

&

Design for living TSIANTAR ARCHITECTS

We’ve all seen some of the incredible builds that George Tsiantar and his team have designed, but we thought it was time to try out the business for ourselves.

Tsiantar Architects are responsible for designing some of the most beautiful homes across Cheshire and Greater Manchester, you’ve no doubt driven past and thought, “one day…!”

With our kitchen in need of an extension, we tasked George with devising ideas on how to make better use of the space and deciding what works best for our busy family life.

George is a very ‘hands-on’ business owner; he sees the projects through from start to finish and guides you every step of the way.

It’s a huge task to have the kitchen redesigned, it can involve knocking down walls and generally transforming spaces to better suit modern day living. The reason many of us want, or need, to redesign our living space is actually quite simple – when our homes were built, houses were inhabited in a very different way.

George explains: “If you think of a Victorian build, houses were built very differently; the kitchen was more of a scullery and the family themselves wouldn’t use the kitchen as they do now.

Families would be in the sitting room or family room, which was usually located on the first floor. As the years have moved on, the kitchen has become the hub of the home, hence the need for renovations and remodelling. Many of us want the kitchen to be the heart of the home, we want it to provide direct access to the garden, and we need more storage solutions as our needs expand.”

some ideas to get started. Then comes the fun part – the drawings! It’s incredible to see how the space in your home could be used in such a different way; we would never have imagined the suggestions George has made. It’s clear to see why he has been so successful in his field; he has a great eye for detail.

Following our initial meeting with George, we are now excited for the next step of the process. Tsiantar Architects can help us with every aspect of the extension; from the initial drawings, all the way through to the interior design, if we wish.

When we last spoke to George, we asked him to dish the dirt on any difficult customers he had encountered, he says there have been none!

With this in mind, George ensures he meets with every client in person and that he understands exactly what it is they want from the space they have. Whether this be a kitchen extension or a full new-build – the process is the same. The team will come to your property, check out what they have to work with, and give you

Go to www.tsiantar.com to find out more about how George and his team can help you realise your dream home. Tsiantar Architects Limited, 4 Springfield Road, Altrincham, Cheshire. WA14 1HE Tel: 0161 928 0034 | Fax: 0161 928 0048 | Email: office@tsiantar.com December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | Home and Garden

A NOT SO Blank Canvas A new year indicates a fresh start, a new chapter, a blank canvas.

All good things on a personal level, but what about your home?

Add some not-so-blank canvases into your living space to welcome in 2017.

Canaries on Manhattan Canvas £173 Joanne H Kim Available at fineartseen.com

Mermaid Street Rye £225 Beatrice Cloake Available at fineartseen.com

Battersea Power Station Print in Gold £35 Barnaby & Co. barnabyco.com

By Emily Fitzgibbons

Personalised Always & Forever Illuminated Canvas £34.95 illuminatedcanvas.co.uk

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Just Relax Embellished Fabric Wall Art £15.99 Graham & Brown Available at House of Fraser

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

Dog Canvas £84.46 Erin Petson Available at Urban Road

Salutions Publications | Home & Garden

Grow your own

STYLE Christmas is at ours this year Not entirely sure how this has happened. His Lordship reckons it has something to do with my alcohol intake. Apparently I’ve invited 16 relatives, two dogs and one guinea pig.

Y

By Catherine Saunders. Follow Lady Muck on Twitter @LadyMuckStyle

es, that’s right – 16 relatives, plus pets. And not just for Christmas day. Oh no. “Come on Christmas Eve, stay as long as you like” seems to have been my general drunken farewell at various get-togethers over the past few months.

Now, I’d love to tell you I’m OK with this but, to be honest, I’m pretty stressed. You see, I don’t have a great track record in hosting Christmas. There was the time I forgot to defrost the turkey, and the time I remembered to defrost the turkey, but forgot to turn on the oven… or the time I defrosted the turkey, turned on the oven, but forgot to take out that pesky plastic bag of giblets. So, our relatives are coming to us with a certain level of trepidation, plus, I’m sure, a secret stash of snacks.

But, this year it will be different. Oh yes.

I have it all planned out.

Leeks and sprouts growing on allotment, tick.

Christmas larder filled to bursting, tick.

Champagne delivered, tick.

Christmas tree to rival Harrods, tick.

Presents bought and wrapped, tick and double tick.

My 2016 New Year’s resolution was to buy all our presents locally this Christmas, and I’ve done pretty well. I can’t wait to watch them rip off the paper and discover their goodies inside, especially the Lady Muck Hampers I’ve put together for our greenfingered mums and newbie grow-your-own nieces.

You see, when I first got into growing stuff, it seemed like everyone mistakenly assumed I had lost my sense of style and penchant for all things pampering. Come Christmas, my heart would sink, as I unwrapped countless gardening-themed presents: head gardener baseball caps, plastic trugs, gardening aprons… you name it, I got it. So, if you want to buy the Lady Muck in your life a gift that keeps her smiling, here’s my advice…

Manicures make a great gift for anyone whose hands spend much of their time in

the dirt, so how about giving a voucher for one? Staying nice and warm in all weathers is tricky, but we definitely don’t want to look like a scarecrow, therefore, anything stylish and warm will go down well. Why not check out your local boutique for a gorgeous hat/scarf combo or maybe a cute little camisole set to wear under all those layers, keeping us feeling glamorous whilst we toil.

An aromatherapy massage is a good idea as well. Digging out there in the cold is hard work, a gift that helps ease away our aches and pains is ace. Lips get a raw (and often sore) deal in winter too, so what about a balm to get her pout looking luscious again?

I swear by the Dr. Hauschka range, which is available at johnlewis.com. Oh, and a full hip flask will always be well received!

Present sorted, all you have to do on Christmas morning is open the bubbly, pop your turkey in the oven, and relax.

As long as you’ve remembered to order the turkey that is. Sorry, got to dash. Need to make urgent call to the butcher…

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Immediate access to MRI scanning, getting you back to normal quicker.

The Wilmslow Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK, provides rapid access to private appointments with leading consultants.

Experience private healthcare without compromise.

For more information, visit www.thewilmslowhospital.co.uk or to book an appointment call 01625 839 657

Salutions Publications | Health

Hampden House is 20 years’ old

By Fay Wertheimer

Set well back from the road, Hampden House Psychotherapy Centre has been helping adults and children handle the strains of modern life for 20 years, yet few passers-by on Palatine Road are in the know. That’s fine.

Confidentiality is key to psychotherapy. Mind you, the practice’s first ever promotional flyers went somewhat overboard on that particular issue. The address was printed correctly, but, unfortunately, directions actually led patients to a pub down the road! That’s history, and M20-based Hampden House is now celebrating two decades of providing excellent and comprehensive psychotherapeutic services for the local community and clients throughout the North West.

WHAT IS PSYCHoTHERAPY? Psychotherapy uses psychological techniques to support people in overcoming their problems and in helping them make changes by talking, rather than rely entirely upon medication. Psychotherapy can help overcome anxiety, low mood and depression by, in part, identifying the cause of the distress. It too can offer support around relationship issues, bereavement, workplace difficulties and eating disorders – in fact, anything causing deep unhappiness.

In recent years, peer pressure, the quest for perfectionism and self-induced stress have contributed to a rise in psychological difficulties within every age range and social group – children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. There is now a greater need for short, medium and long-term therapies. NHS waiting lists are lengthy and treatments are limited time-wise, so Hampden House has proved a boon to those needing therapy on a short or long-term basis.

Psychotherapist Deborah Drinkwater joined the Hampden House team six years ago and describes what makes the centre so special: “The relaxed, non-clinical atmosphere in what had been a Victorian family home, plus the fact our sessions always take place in the same room, benefit both the therapist and the client.

When patients show signs of improvement, it’s so gratifying.

We take GP, hospital, medical insurance and self-referrals.

Once our official questionnaire has been completed, patients are

usually seen within two weeks. It’s vital for each client to receive an appropriate therapy and, at this centre, we have many practitioners offering many different specialisms.”

HISToRY In 1996, six Cheadle Royal therapists, backed by the Priory Hospital, formed a practice in Hampden House in Withington.

In 2004, two founders (one of whom is still working today) and four colleagues bought the premises. Each week, in the centre’s eight comfy consulting rooms, twenty part-time therapists, ten visiting therapists and three administrators, including the ‘original’ from 1996, see 250 patients from Monday through to Saturday.

Hampden House also hosts training sessions helping to provide Continuing Professional Development for the profession.

This, no doubt, suits the area’s many psychotherapists right down to the ground. Choosing a venue for the 20th birthday party, Practice Administrator Ann Watson is emphatic that it can only be hosted in one location - M20, of course.

Tel: 0161 445 2099. hampdenhouse.co.uk December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Peace of mind for you and your family at all times

The Private GP & Night Doctor Service 4 4 4 4

24 hrs a day 7 days a week Personal and confidential Unhurried

4 Covering Hale, Wilmslow, Didsbury and their surrounding areas 4 Night and weekend home visits 4 Early or late same day appointments

Dr Bruce Jobling

Registration fee from £18 per month plus consultation fees You can remain with your NHS GP • Additional surgery in Hale opening soon If this service is of interest to you or your family, please contact us to register.

0161 980 2626 | Info@ThePrivateGP.uk | www.NightDoctor.uk The Surgery, 96 Church Road, Gatley, Cheshire SK8 4NQ

Salutions Publications | Health

The Elite Breathlessness Clinic at The Manchester Institute of Health & Performance

Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, or EIB, is the preferred term for what was known for years as exercise-induced asthma, and is the most common medical condition in athletes.

EIB is the narrowing of the tubes in the lungs during exercise. The true prevalence is unknown, but it has been estimated that up to 70% of elite athletes are affected by the condition. People involved in sports who face challenging environments (e.g. cold climates) or high aerobic demands are at greater risk. However, not all exercise-associated breathlessness is due to EIB. Several other conditions can mimic EIB, including upper airway conditions like exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction (E-ILO) and dysfunctional breathing.

SYMPToMS, DIAGNoSIS AND TREATMENT The impact of breathlessness symptoms during exercise can range from reduction in performance and fatigue to, in extreme circumstances, withdrawal from competitive participation.

Respiratory symptoms alone do not provide enough information for accurate, targeted treatment, as breathlessness symptoms can be multifactorial and, therefore, specific specialised tests are crucial to provide accurate diagnosis. In EIB, the airways can become temporarily narrowed during exercise and symptoms include wheezing, coughing and chest tightness.

The International Olympic Committee recommend indirect airway challenge testing as a gold standard for determining EIB in a competitive athlete. Consensus guidelines advise continuous laryngoscopies i.e. examination of the back of the throat, voice box (larynx) and vocal cords with a scope (laryngoscope) during exercise to assess for EILO. An early, accurate diagnosis for the cause of breathlessness is key, as it can prevent impaired performance. Treatment can include targeted medication or therapy programmes to gain control of breathing.

THE ELITE BREATHLESSNESS CLINIC The new private service at The Manchester Institute of Health & Performance, the first of its kind in the North, provides tailored, multidisciplinary assessment and treatment for people struggling with breathlessness symptoms during exercise.

The clinic is run by Dr Aashish Vyas, Consultant Chest Physician, and Jemma Haines, Consultant Speech and Language Therapist, who have more than 20 years’ combined experience treating individuals with complex breathlessness needs.

Jemma Haines explains: “We have developed a unique diagnostic and treatment infrastructure at The Manchester Institute of Health & Performance, which ensures that each and every patient receives assessment, diagnosis and bespoke goal-orientated treatment within one clinical service.

“Our aim is to deliver comprehensive management packages, which allow individuals to recover from breathlessness symptoms and fulfil their competitive goals.”

The Elite Breathlessness Clinic is open to individuals, clubs and groups across all sports and levels of ability. For more information or to book an appointment, please visit mihp.co.uk or call 0161 641 8300.

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Immediate access to MRI scanning, getting you back in the race quicker.

The Wilmslow Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK, provides rapid access to private appointments with leading consultants.

Experience private healthcare without compromise.

For more information, visit www.thewilmslowhospital.co.uk or to book an appointment call 01625 839 657

If you have a Knee problem, consult one of the UK’s leading Knee Specialists Consultations now available at 52 Alderley Road

Skiing Injury? For quick effective treatment contact the kneedoc... it’s all you need to know.

The Knee Doc Consultant:

• US and UK trained Consultant Knee and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Surgeon who has worked with NBA and NFL teams

• Professor Faculty of Engineering, Science and Sports, University of Bolton

• Honorary clinical lecturer at the University of Manchester • International and national speaker on knee problems and sports injuries • Treats international, professional, elite sportspeople and weekend warriors playing many different sports

Treatments available:

• Bespoke Personalised Knee Replacement Surgery • Arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery

• Ligament reconstruction (anterior cruciate ligament, ACL) • Minimally Invasive Personalised Knee Replacement Surgery - which can allow you to leave hospital rapidly, often within 2-3 days and the surgery is designed specifically to your knee using the latest cutting edge technological innovations • State of the art Arthritis treatments available.

• Team Surgeon for GB Olympic Wrestling Team

• Sports Medicine Consultant for 2002 commonwealth games.

The Knee Doc... it’s all you need to know Consultations available at: • • • • • •

BMI Alexandra Hospital Cheadle 52 Alderley Road Ramsay Oaklands Hospital Salford Spire Hospital Manchester Spire Hale Clinic The Manchester Institute of Health and Performance

Contact details:

For further information or to book a consultation:

• Telephone: 0161 445 4988

• Web: www.thekneedoc.co.uk

• Email: claire@thekneedoc.co.uk

Professor Sanjiv Jari, Consultant Knee, Lower Limb & Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Surgeon

Salutions Publications | Health

How to prevent hand and wrist injuries on the slopes Winter has arrived and it’s that time of year again, when lots of us Britons are preparing to head to the slopes. If you are planning a skiing or snowboarding trip,keep in mind that staying safe is important when having fun outdoors this season. Even the most experienced skiers and snowboarders are at risk of orthopaedic injury whilst enjoying the snow.

Skier’S Thumb This is a very common ligament injury to the inside of the thumb knuckle. Typical symptoms include swelling, bruising and pain. Treatment consists of either a period of wearing a splint, or a repair of the ligament with an operation. It is important to get this type of injury checked out by a specialist hand surgeon, as it can lead to a floppy and weakened thumb if missed.

There are a few simple ways to help prevent this type of injury to the thumb: Avoid the ski pole loop – instead, try to hold the handle and let the strap dangle down. It is often the strap wrapped around the thumb, bending it back and sideways causing the injury.

Fall safely – if you do take a tumble, simply let go of your poles and let them fall away to your side. It is better, and less painful, to walk a few metres to retrieve your pole than tear your thumb ligament.

SnowboArding wriST FrAcTureS Falls are common during skiing, but more prevalent in snowboarding, and tend to occur more frequently for beginners. The natural response to a fall is to stretch out a hand to break the fall and, for this reason, fractures of the wrist are a relatively frequent feature, with around 100,000 snowboarding wrist fractures worldwide every year.

I would suggest following the tips below to minimise wrist injuries: Practice your technique – when flying through the air, hurtling towards the ground, try to roll with the fall on your shoulder and upper arm. Avoid putting out your hands and wrists in front of you, but rather pull them in across your chest out of harm’s way wrist protection – invest in some braces.

Over-the-counter Velcro straps with a metal bar often help, but we can now make custom thermoplastic splints that perfectly contour your wrists. There is even an option to personalise your splint with your own design or logo.

If you do get injured overseas, and have to visit a doctor while you are on holiday, don’t feel panicked or pressurised into having an ‘urgent’ operation. Although many surgeons in ski regions are very well-trained, the vast majority of injuries can usually wait a week or so until you get home and seek treatment. This also means that, if there are any ongoing issues, you can be seen by the same specialist in the UK. Open compound injuries and dislocations need urgent attention, but most fractures and ligament injuries can be rested in a temporary splint until you return home and can get checked out by a specialist hand and wrist surgeon.

Mr Mike Hayton is a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in hand and wrist injuries. He has a NHS practice at Wrightington Hospital and consults privately at HCA The Wilmslow Hospital, The Manchester Institute of Health & Performance (MIHP) and The Alexandra Hospital.

For more information or to make an appointment with mr hayton please call 0845 838 7766 or email info@mikehayton.com if you are overseas and need urgent advice, please call the orth Team on ++44 7732 247 247

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | People

See clearly at Optegra Eye Hospital Manchester With three quarters of people in the UK wearing corrective eyewear, there has never been a better time to consider the benefits of vision correction I needed glasses or contact lenses for every aspect of my life, which was very much a hindrance, particularly when it came to participating in sports and activities.

I decided to have Lens replacement (Clarivu) so that I could live without the limitations of glasses and contact lenses. I definitely had reservations before I went for a consultation – a feeling that is only natural when talking about something as valuable as your eyesight. Once I’d had my consultation however, I felt reassured that I was in the best possible hands.

“On the day of the surgery, I was quite nervous before I actually got to the hospital, but once there, I did relax, as I felt cared for and knew I was in the hands of total experts.”

Optegra Eye Health Care is the leading expert in its field; offering the A to Z of eye health care and having the ability to transform patients’ lives. We speak to Bev Buckley, Patient Services Advisor at Optegra Eye Hospital Manchester who, having undergone Lens replacement (Clarivu), talks about her experience and how she’s been able to apply this to her role.

As a Patient Services Advisor, my job is to ensure that patients leave the hospital after their initial consultation fully informed; to be able to make the decision about whether to undergo treatment.

I spend time with and get to know our patients and am able to answer crucial questions they may have regarding the procedures themselves, through to costs and aftercare. No two days are ever the same and it’s a really satisfying role; seeing first-hand how our patients’ lives can be transformed over such a short space of time.

I was short-sighted for a number of years myself. Having worn glasses since I was about 12 years old, and contact lenses in later years, my vision became quite problematic in my early 50s.

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December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

The procedure really has changed my life. I have gone from having to wear glasses for everything I did, to not wearing them for anything at all. It is now a pleasure to be able to shop and see labels clearly, read menus, wear any sunglasses I choose, and to wear any outfit without having to think about whether it matches my glasses! I’d say to anyone considering surgery that you have nothing to lose by coming to our hospitals for a free consultation, but you may have lots to gain! You will have a full range of diagnostic tests to confirm your eyes are healthy, and the opportunity for our consultants to discuss the best vision correction solution for you. We also host monthly open evenings which are a great way to find out more about the procedures from our Ophthalmic Consultants who will answer all of your questions.

To book your place at the next open evening on 16 December at 6.30pm, or to find out more about the range of eye care solutions available at Optegra, visit optegra.com/Manchester or call 0844 326 0011

Get freedom from glasses

from the UK’s no.1 most trusted eye care specialist group

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laser or lens replacement surgery Plus EXCLUSIVE complimentary luxury car service to take you to and from your appointments**

Book your free consultation† at our 5 star eye hospital optegra.com/Manchester or call us on 0844 326 0011 Optegra is the UK’s most trusted eye care specialist group‡, renowned for our personalised, consultant-led experience. Inside our Manchester dedicated eye hospital, our pioneering surgeons use state-of-the-art technology to deliver the full spectrum of eye health care.

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| M E D I C A L | L A S E R | L E N S R E P L AC E M E N T | E Y E L I D S U R G E R Y

Source: Trustpilot. †Free consultation available on Laser and Lens Replacement only. *Complimentary car service applies to initial consultation appointment and surgery appointment only. Offer ends 31st January 2017. No cash alternative available.

Cannot be used in conjuntion with any other offers. For full T&Cs, visit optegra.com/terms-and-conditions.

Immediate access to MRI scanning, helping keep you in peak shape.

The Wilmslow Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK, provides rapid access to private appointments with leading consultants.

Experience private healthcare without compromise.

For more information, visit www.thewilmslowhospital.co.uk or to book an appointment call 01625 839 657

Salutions Publications | Health

Charity supports world-class Christie Ambition burns bright at Manchester's Christie hospital, with doctors and fundraisers determined it will soon be amongst the top five cancer centres in the world.

Dr Jon Bell

Funding LiFe-chAnging ProJecTS The Christie Charity provides enhanced services over and above what the NHS funds. Gifts from the public and businesses make a huge difference to the care and treatment that The Christie is able to provide to patients and their families.

The charity's Head of Fundraising, Louise Stimson said: "Over 1,015 community events and 355 corporate fundraisers were held on our behalf, 190 people left us a gift in their will, and more than 7,500 people

tackled a sporting challenge. All of these wonderful supporters have helped to fund life-changing and potentially life-saving projects."

One of the major projects the charity is currently involved in is the development of a new £4.8m Integrated Procedures Unit; bringing together a range of different services – interventional radiology, day case procedures, plastic surgery, pain control and an endoscopy clinic – under one roof and based above the main entrance on Oak Road. Thousands of patients will all receive treatment in one place, creating a seamless treatment experience. drAgon'S den A key element of the hospital’s ambitious development will be the provision of hi-tech advanced 3D interventional imaging equipment – the first of its type in Europe – for the application of precision-targeted surgery and therapies to reduce side effects of treatments. It was the subject of a successful bid to the charitable funding committee for £600,000.

"The process makes Dragons’ Den look simple and straightforward," jokes Dr Bell.

"We have to go through multiple committees

and explain the benefits of every project to justify spending every penny.

"If you have heard of keyhole surgery, then this equipment enables pinhole surgery using very thin wires and catheters to access places in the body using state-of-the-art images as a guide. We can be incredibly accurate in the application of treatments."

The JeweL in The crown What Louise Stimson describes as "the jewel in the crown" of The Christie Charity's fundraising activities is the annual ball, which will take place at the luxuriously-refurbished Palace Hotel in Manchester on 18th March 2017. One of the most glamorous events in the city's social calendar will see 300 guests and VIPs enjoy a fine dining gala dinner, hosted by the BBC One's Match of the Day 2 and 5 live Sport presenter Mark Chapman.

"It's a hugely popular way for people and businesses to support projects like Dr Bell's interventional radiology procedures,” explains Louise. “It's always a sell-out and guests are guaranteed a truly spectacular evening. But, most importantly, it's a very tangible way to help cancer patients here in the North West."

For details of the fantastic packages available for The christie charity ball, please contact 0161 918 7398 or email specialevents@christies.org December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

By Ray King

C C

urrently, the much-loved centre of excellence in Didsbury ranks as one of the top ten most technologically-advanced cancer centres in the world – but, major developments are currently under way at The Christie, designed to enhance the experience of patients through the deployment of new state-of-the-art technology. Crucial to the hospital's ability to "keep level pegging with the Americans", as Consultant Interventional Radiologist Dr Jon Bell puts it, is the tireless work of The Christie Charity and its 43,500 supporters, who raised an incredible £15.9m last year.

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Salutions Publications | Health & Beauty

SASSOON

Party season means one thing… …glamorous and sophisticated hair Whether it’s polished waves or an ultra-chic look, Sassoon UK Creative Director Bruce Masefield gives you some festive inspiration for your tresses... chic PonY Perfect for desk to dancefloor. “A sleek, low ponytail with a deep side parting exudes chic, ladylike elegance,” says Bruce. Pull hair tightly into a low pony, which sits just on the nape of the neck, and secure with an invisible band. Take a small section of hair out of the ponytail and wrap it around the band, securing with a pin. To finish, spray hair with a fine mist of Sassoon Professional Spray Shine (£17) for high-definition shine and an immaculate finish.

LuXe LockS Special occasion hair is all about polish and shimmering shine.

“For contemporary glamour at its best, enhance the look with a low side parting and comb it all the way through for an impeccable finish,” says Bruce.

Creating volume starts before blowdrying. A lightweight styling mousse such as Sassoon Professional Edit Body (£19.10) will give body and lift to your look. Once dry, wrap small sections of hair around a styling wand, securing each curl with a flat clip in a finger wave pattern. Let the hair cool while secured in this 'S' shape to lock in the wave.

The golden rule for glamourous hair is to prepare with these cold-weather must-haves: Party Season Prep

Sassoon Professional Intense Restore (£18.50). The winter months play havoc with your hair – leaving it dry, brittle and lifeless. Therefore, according to Bruce, it is vital to replenish and retain moisture, and he recommends a weekly deep conditioning treatment at home. This super-moisturising treatment penetrates deep into the hair’s cortex and injects a rush of moisture, whilst smoothing the cuticle.

Sassoon Professional Illuminating Oil (£30.40) is perfect for fly-away tresses.

Simply add a small amount evenly to wet hair before you blow-dry or smooth over dry hair just before your event for magical shine. *All products available at your nearest Sassoon Salon

SASSOON SALON MANCHESTER 1 Marsden St, Manchester M2 1HW | Phone: 0161 827 7140

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Robert Morris Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon and Optegra Medical Director

ASK THE

EXPERT Why is LASEK still used when it’s the first generation of treatment?

PRK was the first generation treatment and LASEK evolved from that. The major change from first generation treatment is the advancement in technology that the excimer lasers deliver to reshape the cornea. All laser vision correction involves using a laser to change the shape of the cornea, the clear window at the front of the eye. In LASEK, the surface tissue cells are loosened with an ethanol solution and the laser reshapes the tissue beneath. There are specific patients who will benefit from this technique.

What is LASIK and who is suitable?

LASIK treatment is applied by the same excimer laser, but in this technique a thin flap is created deeper in the cornea with a different laser, a femto laser. The flap is folded back to allow a excimer laser to reshape the cornea and the flap then replaced.

This is often painless and faster to heal than LASEK. What is the latest generation of laser?

SMILE, or Small Incision Lenticule Extraction, is a minimally invasive technique using a single advanced femto laser creating a disc or lenticule within the cornea so there’s no need for a flap.

The lentil is then removed through a small, painless incision.

It offers a solution for shortsighted patients, particularly those with thin corneas or dry eyes.

The advice given by our experts is in no way intended to replace professional advice and is only a guideline in response to individual reader comments. Unfortunately, due to a high volume of queries, our experts are unable to engage in any direct correspondence.

Salutions Publications | Health

Suzy Glaskie

Eat your rainbow and reap the benefits The other day, I asked my ten-year-old daughter if she knew what phytonutrients were. She replied: "They fight disease… that's why they're called fightonutrients!" Well, if we’re being pedantic, ‘phyto’ actually means plant-based, but I think her definition is inspired and sums up the power of plant nutrients brilliantly.

Phytonutrients are natural compounds that give plants their different and distinctive colours: green, red, blue, purple, yellow, orange and white. They’re produced by the plant to protect it against environmental stressors and, when we eat them, they ‘instruct’ our bodies to prepare for those environmental stressors too. Although not labelled as ‘essential’ nutrients, you’d become ill if you didn’t have them (a recent episode of Poldark illustrated this beautifully, when the doctor handed out oranges to everyone suffering from scurvy).

Phytonutrients boost the immune system, support the body in ridding itself of toxins, reduce inflammation and can help you avoid conditions like heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, dementia, and more. And here’s a lovely aside: The University of Otago found that greater consumption of fruits and vegetables was associated with greater flourishing in daily life.

How nice is that?

So, are you getting your five-a-day? Actually, ditch that. The five-a-day mantra is a public health message that’s aimed at the lowest possible denominator. If you really want to make a difference to your health, then aim for eight or more servings of vegetables and two of fruit every day, in as many different colours as possible.

Much like our wardrobe, many of us get stuck in a rut; eating the same fruit and veg every day. You’re not really gleaning the full benefits of these wonderful foods if you limit your choices. Each plant colour represents a different family of healing compounds and they have a synergistic effect, so the more you combine your colours, the more benefits you get. In other words, eat your rainbow.

here’s a brief guide to which colours have which health benefits:

Yellow

E.g. bananas, lemons, peppers, pineapple, ginger root, squash, honeydew melon, yellow tomatoes. Anti-cancer; anti-inflammatory; cell protective; eye, heart, skin and vascular health properties.

orange

E.g. carrots, mangos, apricots, pumpkin, squash, sweet potatoes, turmeric, oranges, tangerines, peaches, papayas, nectarines, cantaloupe, peppers. Anti-cancer; anti-bacterial; immune-supportive; reproductive and skin health.

green

E.g. broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, Chinese cabbage, bok choi, kale, artichoke, asparagus, avocado, bean sprouts, peppers, melon, celery, cucumber, edamame, green beans, green peas, green tea, chard, lettuce, spinach, limes, okra, pears, watercress, courgette, olives. Anti-inflammatory; anti-cancer; neurological, hormonal, heart, liver and skin health.

white/brown

E.g. leeks, spring onions, garlic, onions, celery, pears, endive, cauliflower, mushrooms, nuts, ginger, cocoa, coconut. Anti-cancer; anti-microbial; gastrointestinal, heart, hormone and liver health.

blue/purple

E.g. blackberries, blueberries, blackcurrants, figs, purple grapes, plums, purple broccoli, aubergine, cabbage, onions, kale. Anticancer; anti-inflammatory; cognitive, heart, skin and liver health.

A great benchmark is to aim to eat twice as much veg as anything else on your plate. don’t limit yourself – there are so many delicious plant foods to experiment with and different ways of preparing them. Just remind yourself that you’re eating medicine!

Suzy Glaskie is a holistic health coach. See peppermintwellness.co.uk for more details.

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | Food & Drink

COMPETITION

A fresh take on a night out Cook together with a chef and spend a night at the Waterside Hotel Food Sorcery Cookery School is located within the Waterside Hotel & Leisure Club, and we’ve teamed up with them to give you a chance to win two places for a Friday evening ‘Cooking Together’ event, plus one-night’s stay at the newly-refurbished Waterside Hotel. Ditch the conventional dining out experience and have fun with your partner or friend preparing your own menu favourites. Cooking Together evenings are as much about chatting and relaxing as they are about learning and eating. Working with one of the school’s expert chefs, you will learn how to create restaurant-inspired food and, more importantly, enjoy eating it!

Once you’ve cooked up a storm, you can retire to the comfort of your hotel room and, the following morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take advantage of the leisure facilities (new spa opens in January 2017) – all included in the prize!

To enter, simply email winner@salutions.co.uk, including your name, address and the answer to the following question:

Where can you can find Food Sorcery? a. Didsbury b. Northern Quarter c. Timperley Please remember to type ‘Food Sorcery’ in the subject field. Alternatively, send your answer, name and address on a postcard to: Salutions, 5 The Stables, Wilmslow Road, Didsbury, M20 5PG. Remember to write ‘Food Sorcery’ at the top of your postcard.

You can choose to take up your prize at any Friday night Cooking Together event.

Check foodsorcery.co.uk/cooking-together-events for dates or call 0161 706 0505.

IT’S ABOUT NEVER NEEDING TO LET YOUR FEET TOUCH THE GROUND Never needing the pressure of being the bride-to-be, it’s about floating across a sea of calm, consummate professionals handle each and every detail before your very eyes.

It’s about nature. We have it. 270 glorious acres of it.

Our experienced Wedding Co-ordinators will help you turn your dream into reality. Contact Mottram Hall for more details or visit one of our monthly open evenings.

01625 828 135 | e: mottramweddings@QHotels.co.uk QHotels.co.uk/MottramHall Wilmslow Road, Mottram St Andrew, Cheshire SK10 4QT QHotels.co.uk

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Gusto launch new autumn/winter menu Gusto Didsbury has its own distinctive personality, which perfectly suits the stylish and cosmopolitan Manchester suburb.

Located on the bustling Wilmslow Road in the heart of the area, Gusto is a firm favourite for superb dining in surroundings of understated style. The restaurant successfully merges grandeur with warm and welcoming charm, and from the moment you walk in, you are immersed in the timeless elegance of the space. The design aesthetic has an air of sophistication, with exposed brickwork, soft lighting, polished wooden floors and sumptuous leather booths – the ideal spot for a relaxing meal.

By Beverley Uddin-Khandakar

There is something for everyone on the menu, which combines a choice of contemporary and classic cuisine, and ingredients are carefully sourced with an eye for the best seasonal produce.

Discerning diners will find plenty to delight them and the new autumn à la carte menu has recently been introduced, which includes rustic winter warmers, hearty main courses, and salads.

Dishes such as roasted butternut squash and chickpea salad with pumpkin seeds and pomegranate are filled with intriguing flavour pairings, and the new spaghetti pesto with green beans, sun-dried tomatoes and rocket is a true taste of the Mediterranean. Seafood lovers will be tempted by the oven-baked fillet of cod wrapped in Tuscan ham with spiced peppercorn lentils, and the pan-fried fillet of sea bass is always a popular dish. Served with toasted artisan bread, the new lamb cacciatore with red wine, pancetta and tomato takes comfort food to the next level. The traditional favourites, for which Gusto is renowned, are still available too; with everything from pizzas, deli boards and pasta to meat and seafood on offer.

As evening falls, the bar area at Gusto Didsbury is the perfect place to watch the world go by and, with a selection of fine wines and expertly-mixed cocktails to choose from, it is tempting to linger.

The heated, outdoor terrace allows guests to enjoy al fresco drinks even on chilly days, and is just the right location to unwind of an evening, glass of wine in hand.

There are so many enticing creations on the cocktail menu, the only difficulty is what to order. The classic Martini is reinvented with tantalising combinations, such as cucumber/elderflower and strawberry/vanilla, and the Bellini is given a new twist, with strawberry, mint and pineapple options available.

Dining at Gusto is an appealing way to spend a Sunday, with a new two-course menu served all day for £15.95. Rustic starters include chicken liver pâté and creamed cauliflower soup, and there’s a selection of refined main courses, such as fillet of pork saltimbocca.

Gusto’s lunch menu, available Monday – Friday 12pm-5pm with 2 courses for £12.95 and 3 courses for £14.95 is a quick and economical way to spend your lunch-time.

With so much to offer, it is easy to see why Gusto Didsbury has become such a renowned dining destination in the area, with a reputation for delicious food, polished service and an ambience which makes you feel instantly at home. gusto 756 wilmslow road, didsbury m20 2dw Tel: 0161 445 8209 gustorestaurants.uk.com December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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DINING GUIDE 'Your favourite restaurants delivered to your door’ www.deliveroo.co.uk

HONEY RESTAURANT

THE LOST & FOUND

Y FÁBRICA

Manchester

Knutsford

Didsbury

whatever the word ‘honey’ means to you – ursula Andress emerging from the caribbean waters, or cockney rhyming slang for ‘money’ – it will mean something entirely new once you’ve eaten at honey restaurant. based at hotel gotham on king Street, the two AA rosette-winning restaurant is located on the sixth floor, offering stunning views across manchester, while a baby grand piano adds to the ambience.

If that wasn’t enough, you’ll be perfectly placed to sample the delights of Gotham’s exclusive Club Brass. As a Honey diner, you’ll have the opportunity to book a slot in this members-only club, which has become known for its extravagance and mystery.

Christmas and New Year bookings are now being taken, so act quickly if you want to see off 2016 with a true Gotham twist.

guests step through the arching gothic doors of this grade ii-listed former old Town hall (created by Alfred waterhouse, designer of the natural history museum) and across dark wooden floors to enter the expansive, ethereal (and fictional) world of Victorian Professor emily b. kingsley, expert in the study of butterflies. intricate wallpapers with scenes of nature and Lepidoptera meet hanging floral arrangements and vintage pendant lights to create a sense of mystery in this elaborate drinking den and restaurant.

Infused spirits and homemade concoctions make up the carefully-crafted cocktail list.

A collection of tipples include the signature Lost cocktails – celebrating twists on forgotten drinks of the past – as well as Found cocktails, all created by a talented bar team. A modern menu weaves from crisp sourdough pizzas with enticing toppings to high-quality cuts of steak, straight from the Josper charcoal oven. With a nod to longestablished British customs, there’s elegant afternoon tea and classic Sunday roasts on offer too. Decadent cocktails, classic British food and hidden nooks... an impressive find for Knutsford foodies and lovers of curious libations indeed.

Situated on a busy high street with plenty of eateries to choose from, Y Fábrica has a lot to live up to. And boy, did it deliver!

A chilled-out South californian/mexican vibe greets you along with an eclectic menu comprising of old favourites and some soon-to-be-classics for the didsbury crowd.

Not knowing what to choose, we tasked the Manager with choosing for us, and he didn’t disappoint. Out came seven different dishes; each one flavoursome, fresh and unique. The Adobo Pork Belly Tacos, served with Apple Slaw and their own freshly-made Salsa Verde, were outstanding. A taste sensation I wasn’t expecting was the Fire Grilled Harissa Chicken with Raspberry Vinegar Slaw.

It was fresh, smoky and delicious. All dishes are designed to share and it helps bring the table alive when everyone is discussing their favourite and fighting for the last Jalapeno Popper! We thought it rude not to sample a cocktail (or two), so we chose a Smokey & the Bandit; a modern twist on a classic Margarita with a kick of Jalapeno for that extra spice.

Honey at Hotel Gotham 100 King Street, Manchester M2 4WU

The Lost & Found Old Town Hall, Princess Street, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 6BY

Y Fábrica 747-751 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 6RN

Tel: 0843 178 7188 hotelgotham.co.uk/pages/ honey-restaurant

Tel: 01565 760096 the-lostandfound.com

Tel: 0161 445 2055 mudcrabindustries.co.uk/didsbury

Honey offers modern, expertly-prepared British cuisine to see you through the whole day. Whether it’s a Metropolis breakfast, a Gotham-style afternoon tea or evening meal cooked with the finest locally-sourced ingredients, the menu is sure to have a dish to tickle your taste buds.

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DINING GUIDE 'Your favourite restaurants delivered to your door’ www.deliveroo.co.uk

PIZZAEXPRESS

THE LIQUOR STORE

ALDERLEY EDGE HOTEL

Didsbury

Manchester

Alderley Edge

Pizzaexpress is celebrating the launch of its exciting new-look restaurant in didsbury.

The family-friendly restaurant has been totally transformed and features artwork inspired by the building’s heritage as a Post office.

Following the phenomenal success of the original Liquor Store on deansgate, a second bar has now opened on First Street. with a relaxed vintage Los Angeles style peppered with mancunian memorabilia, this is certainly a cool new kid on the food and drink block.

Alderley edge hotel is steeped in history, with stunning views over the cheshire countryside.

The restaurant has three sections, which cater for different groups – the main room for families, where they can watch pizzas being made; the oak room which is more intimate and lends itself to couples; and the upstairs private dining room for functions and events, where monthly live music sessions will be launched later this year.

PizzaExpress has been serving up fresh, handmade pizza to Didsbury since 1998.

Open from 12noon until 3am, The Liquor Store is not only the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed cocktail in the afternoon, but also an ideal location for your lively Saturday night.

The food menu is simple – American classics done well. Deli sandwiches are possibly the biggest I have ever seen and included a new firm favourite for me, The Classic Philly Steak. All sandwiches come with skin-on fries and homemade slaw. With some indie rock and classic Manchester hits playing in the background, it’s hard not to get caught up in the atmosphere and order some early drinks after dining. The cocktail menu – written on the sleeves of various vintage vinyl – is extensive and creative.

I would describe The Liquor Store as cool, relaxed, enthusiastic and satisfying – everything you want from the team behind some of the best up-and-coming bars in Manchester.

Our table in the bright and airy conservatory, in the Alderley Restaurant had fantastic views over the village itself and we were surrounded by lots of other happy diners. Our champagne afternoon tea – presented on a tiered, glass stand – looked spectacular, and the selection of finger sandwiches and cakes was amazing. We were each given a glass of Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé, a particular favourite of mine.

Prior to my visit, I hadn’t realised that non-residents could dine in the hotel, so was delighted to discover otherwise.

The knowledgeable staff told me that their afternoon tea is second to none in Cheshire, with everything homemade on the day, even the bread for the sandwiches. I always worry with afternoon tea that I’ll be hungry afterwards, but this definitely wasn’t the case and I cheekily asked for a doggy bag to take a leftover scone home! Alderley Edge has all the grandeur you’d expect from a four-star hotel, but it is relaxed and informal too, thanks to the lovely staff.

This place is a must-visit!

Pizza Express 95 Lapwing Lane, Didsbury, Manchester M20 6UR

The Liquor Store 1 Jack Rosenthal Street, Manchester M15 4RA

Alderley Edge Hotel Macclesfield Road, Alderley Edge, SK9 7BJ

Tel: 0161 438 0838 pizzaexpress.com/didsbury

Tel: 0161 834 6239 Email: info@theliquorstore.co.uk theliquorstore.co.uk/first-street

Tel: 01625 583033 alderleyedgehotel.com

The artwork has illustrations and poignant reminders of Britain's postal industry, including reclaimed vintage stamps and 3D scale weights framed in decorative gilt mouldings. There’s a fresh, new paint scheme throughout, including the popular rear courtyard area. New feature pendant and wall lights, leather banquette seating and settles, along with new panelling and featured tiled flooring, all enhance the customer experience.

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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The Staff & Management at would like to wish you a

AND A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR Make it your resolution to visit us over the festive period and 2017

JANUARY OFFER Enjoy 3 courses from our a la carte menu with a glass of Prosecco for only ÂŁ18.95

Bookings 01925 241 888 Tudor Cottage | 90 Church Street | Warrington | WA1 2TF e: dine@thecottagerestaurant.co.uk | www.thecottagerestaurant.co.uk

Salutions Publications | People

Paul Hindley General Manager, Best Western Cresta Court Hotel Paul Hindley is General Manager of the Best Western Cresta Court Hotel in Altrincham and, this month, is celebrating his 20th year at the helm of the hotel. We met up with Paul to talk about what drew him into the hospitality industry, the hotel’s recent transformation, and his plans for the future. with us for the first time feel like they’ve visited the hotel before. The personality of the hotel has to shine through in everything we do and say, and that’s been a key success for us over the past year. I’m now in touch with hotels from around the world on social media and it’s great to be able to see what they are doing and how it’s relevant to Cresta Court.”

The PAST Paul’s first role in the hospitality industry was as a food and beverage stocktaker for a large hotel and he instantly fell in love with the buzz of being involved in such a fast-paced environment every day. He worked through the ranks, eventually taking up the role of regional general manager with Macdonald Hotels & Resorts in 1995. His current role at the Best Western Cresta Court followed and, two decades on, he is still as ambitious for the hotel as he was on his first day (although, he claims, with a little less hair on his head!)

The PreSenT Paul’s passion for the hotel, its customers and the team he works with is easy to see as he describes its recent change in appearance: “The hotel has just undergone its biggest transformation – a £1.2m refurbishment programme that took over two years of hard work!” says Paul. “The hotel looks terrific and, with the addition of the new Townfields restaurant, the facilities really are top notch. I’m so proud of my team for ensuring that the day-to-day running of the hotel wasn’t affected by the developments, and for their enthusiasm for the changes. Our customers love the new look, and our profits are almost double on previous years. The team we have at present is especially strong and they are what makes the hotel so successful.”

When it comes to running the hotel, Paul takes inspiration from around the world and has become a true convert to the power of social media: “We have worked hard to ensure that the hotel’s social media profile is relevant to our customers and have built up a really strong personality,” Paul explains. “Even customers coming to stay

The FuTure The Cresta Court has recently opened a new space to add to their existing conference facilities, which will enable it to further develop its events business, and Paul is looking forward to introducing new technologies into the customer experience over the next five years: “The beauty of the hotel industry is that it is constantly evolving,” says Paul. “It’s a real pleasure to work in an environment where we are constantly looking at new ways in which we can improve the customer experience. Technology plays a huge part in what we do. From the introduction of the fastest WiFi connections to touchscreen facilities here at the Cresta Court, we are looking at how we can ensure that each stay is tailor-made to each individual customer. There will be lots happening over the next few years that will revolutionise the industry… so watch this space!”

And, on that note, Paul dashes off – but not before sharing a huge smile and the biggest of handshakes – to help with a customer enquiry. Nothing is too much trouble for him.

best western cresta court hotel church Street, Altrincham, cheshire wA14 4dP Tel: 0161 927 7272 | cresta-court.co.uk

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Education news Sara transforms into matilda on the west end stage

An aspiring actress and dancer from Manchester High School for Girls, 11-year-old Sara Sheen, has been having the time of her life performing in award-winning Matilda the Musical in London’s West End. The musical, created by the Royal Shakespeare Company, is an adaptation of Roald Dahl’s famous book Matilda and is enjoyed by audiences across the world.

Didsbury girl Sara’s love for dancing and singing was well known to her dance teacher at Vale School of Dance, and she recommended her student audition for the lead role of Matilda.

After five intense auditions over the summer, Sara was cast in the role she shares with three other girls.

Sara explained: “It has been an incredible experience, as I have never done anything like this before. I do two shows per week, and standbys twice a week if the other Matildas are not available. As we are needed so frequently, and my home is far away from London, I share a house with some of the other child actors. We are

looked after by our ‘house mother’, who is really nice!

“Doing the show, travelling a lot and getting school work done has been challenging, but worth it. I have met so many interesting people, and one of the highlights has been to know that Stephen Hawking saw me perform.

That was surreal!

“I love the feeling of being on stage and I wish to carry on with musical theatre or do TV roles and films in the future.

Right now though, I am enjoying every minute of my role as Matilda!”

drama in chS Sixth Form’s dnA Theatre and drama students at Cheadle Hulme School (CHS) showed that performance is in their genes during their own Sixth Form-directed production of Dennis Kelly’s DNA. Parents, fellow students and staff filled one of the school’s drama studios to watch the students tell the poignant and hilariously dark tale of a mysterious secret kept by a group of teenagers. Upper Sixth student Eleanor Herbert, who directed the piece, said: “As an arts and humanities student it seems ironic I picked up a play originally entitled Deoxyribonucleic Acid, let alone end up directing it, but I was drawn to the creativity of the script. This process has been incredibly fun and exciting; an experience I have thoroughly enjoyed.”

Combining dramatic skills with dynamic leadership, the students’ play marked the opening of production season at CHS, ahead of senior school play – Jessica Swale’s Blue Stockings. Rehearsals are currently under way for the school’s musical theatre production of Broadway hit 13 in February.

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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“What we learn with pleasure we never forget” Alfred Mercier

2017 ENTRANCE EXAMINATIONS For Year 7 entry:

For Years 3-6 entry:

Monday 9th January 2017

Saturday 14th January 2017

To arrange a tour of the School please call 0161 224 1077 To arrange a tour call 0161 224 1077 Wellington Road, Fallowfield, Manchester M14 6BL

wgs.org

Means -tested bursaries now available from Year 5 upwards

Salutions Publications | Education

N

Headteacher Brendan Wignall Ellesmere College, Shropshire

“One of the glories of being human is our imperfections”

estled in 144 acres at the heart of rural Shropshire, you’d be mistaken for thinking Ellesmere College was a 5-star hotel. Furthermore, its grandeur may lead you to think this school is out of your, and your child’s academic league, but you would be very much mistaken.

By Victoria Hinksman

We speak with long-standing Headmaster Mr Brendan Wignall about the school and find out why grades aren’t necessarily the only thing it excels at. Having been at Ellesmere for over 20 years, Mr Wignall exudes enthusiasm for the school and is rightfully proud of its fantastic success stories. The emphasis at Ellesmere is on developing individuals so that they go on, after education, to live happy and successful lives. This sets them apart from other schools, where exams and grades tend to be the only benchmark.

Mr Wignall goes on to explain that what the school wants for each student is their best possible personal results. This doesn’t mean four A Levels at A*, this means how well that student has done personally. Last year, Ellesmere saw a student gain 4 A*s at A Level and go on to Oxford, but they also had a student who achieved three Ds at A Level and that, for him, was a huge achievement.

Mr Wignall is confident that no other school would have helped him achieve those grades, to excel himself and go on to be successful in his chosen field. In fact, Mr Wignall predicts that this particular student will go on to be the boss of some of the more academically-gifted students!

Ellesmere is quite unusual in that it not only runs A Levels, but also the International Baccalaureate® Diploma Programme and BTECs, as well as preparing American students for their SATs. The reason for this is simple – the ‘traditional’ route doesn’t fit every student; each individual has their own strengths and their own needs, and it’s up to them which route they want to take.

As Mr Wignall states, “We are definitely not a ‘one size fits all’ establishment!”

But exams are just the start. Ellesmere doesn’t just want to produce students who are extremely academic but lacking in common sense… and Mr Wignall speaks from personal experience! He reveals that, despite passing five A Levels and being awarded two degrees in philosophy, he once tried, in error, to check onto a flight using someone else’s passport! Ellesmere wants to produce all-rounders. It ploughs huge investment into sports, expressive arts, music and drama. As well as having a swimming pool, a theatre and a nine-hole golf course on the grounds, the school has just started the build on an indoor four-court tennis facility, a sport at which the school excels.

Mr Wignall’s closing words to me were food for thought: “One of the glories of being human is our imperfections. We are far from being perfect at Ellesmere, but our highest priority as a team – the child, the parent and the school – is to get that child the best possible personal results at the age of 18. If we can do that, then we’ve done our job well.”

December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | Education News

marvy and hukam complete the welsh Three Peaks challenge

Cousins from The Manchester Grammar School successfully completed the gruelling Welsh Three Peaks Challenge to help refugees in war-torn countries.

Marvy and Hukam Nerwan who successfully completed the Welsh Three Peaks Challenge for charity.

Last year, Marvy Nerwan, 17, and his cousin Hukam Nerwan, 16, set up the first Sikh society in the school’s 500year history. Initially set up to help young Sikhs feel at home, the society is open to all boys at the school and its members are drawn from many different religions and backgrounds, helping to create a strong sense of

community between them.

The cousins, from Altrincham, have also been raising money for charity and, recently walked the 17m (27.4km) Welsh Three Peaks Challenge in just 24 hours to raise money for Khalsa Aid. So far, the boys have raised £2,050, but further donations are continuing to come in. Khalsa Aid is a non-profit organisation that mainly helps out in war-torn areas, such as Syria and Iraq; giving clean water and food to refugees, and providing safe havens for those at risk of persecution.

The charity is currently helping sufferers of Hurricane Matthew in Haiti. The boys said: “We climbed Snowdon on the first day, which was long and arduous, but not too tasking.

We also climbed Cadair Idris on the first day, which was very tough due to it being a six-hour, off-path hike in complete darkness.

“On the second day, we climbed

Pen y Fan, which was a very steep incline and descent, but we managed to do it in two hours instead of the recommended five, bringing to an end our Three Peaks Challenge.

“One of the society’s main purposes is to give to charity. Charity is hugely emphasised in Sikhi, which we refer to as Dasvandh.

“We chose Khalsa Aid because it’s a hugely admirable and commendable organisation. We want to help support the thousands of refugees who are facing everyday struggles and fear for their lives. “It’s really important to us to help those who suffer from evils in this world, and those who are not as fortunate as everyone else.”

Anyone wishing to donate can still do so and should visit .justgiving.com/fundraising/SikhiSociety.

If you would like to know more about the Sikh Society itself, visit sikhisociety.com

Alderley School launches new mental well-being initiative for young girls

Alderley Edge School for Girls is delighted to announce a partnership with myHappymind, an innovative programme which helps to develop and encourage positive mental well-being in children.

It’s not just the academic development of its students that the school considers a priority, but their mental health too, and it takes caring for developing minds very seriously.

The myHappymind initiative is based on scientific research and helps to demystify the workings of the brain.

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order to build positive relationships with themselves and their peers.

Whether through in class exercises or homework extension materials, the myHappymind interface also allows parents to get involved with the project.

Helen Jeys, Headmistress at the school, commented, “We have a responsibility to prepare our girls for life beyond the classroom and, by teaching them how

their brains work and how they can develop their character, we can create a generation of children who have the ability to manage their own mental well-being. It is our hope that this programme will help our pupils to thrive and be resilient in childhood and beyond. We are extremely excited to be starting this project with our Year 1 girls later this year.”

Salutions Publications | Education

Helen Jeys Headmistress, Alderley Edge School for Girls

Bursting with energy, empathy and intellect, Alderley Edge School for Girls’ stateeducated Headmistress Helen Jeys is an unequivocal champion of independent single-sex schooling.

By Fay Wertheimer

An educational writer armed with a First-class Durham University theology degree and Cambridge teacher-trained, Helen initially taught philosophy and theology at The Manchester Grammar School, where her husband is Director of Studies. Posts at Malvern Girls’ School and Hulme Grammar followed and, later, she spent 14 years at Manchester High School for Girls. She coordinated the latter’s International Baccalaureate® Diploma, before becoming Pastoral Deputy Head in 2012.

Appreciative of her warm Alderley welcome, the highly-approachable Helen has led the school since September, supported by 52 full and 22 part-time staff, Junior School Headmistress Bridget Howard, and many enthusiastic parents.

Up with the lark at 5am, and headmistress to over five hundred 2 to-18-year-old girls, hands-on Helen now stands back from the chalkface. Matters of leadership, policy, governors’ meetings, the school vision and

maintaining staff and student morale take precedence. There is, however, room for a dash of frivolity – like judging the school Bake Off!

Formality is not my style, says Helen.

I encourage parents to drop in. I want each one to know that we nurture their daughter and that, with us, she can reach and even overreach her potential. I’m passionate for every girl to emerge from here happy, self-confident and equipped with the selfbelief to succeed in whatever she chooses to do – and see school as fun. whAT Are Your core beLieFS? Simply to be the best you can be. There’s no need to be an Olympian – as long as you do your very best. That’s what I was taught and firmly believe. I try to give 100 per cent all the time, both personally and professionally, and want to impart this to our girls. I also want them to feel inspired by the school’s history. Hopefully, our new large ‘vision, celebration and alumnae’ boards in the hall will stimulate that sense of continuity in them too. Amazingly, my Aristotelian beliefs, my Methodist parents’ work ethic and this ecumenical school’s motto are a perfect fit: Aspire not to have more, but to be more.

how doeS SingLe-SeX educATion beneFiT girLS? Boys and girls learn differently – and I believe, perform better with teachers who understand this. For example, girls in single-sex schools are more likely to study sciences than those in co-ed classes, where they can tend to withdraw and let the boys dominate.

Your FirST imPreSSionS oF ALderLeY? I love the intimacy and also the breadth of opportunity available to our pupils.

We send girls to Oxbridge, into the arts, IT, sports, PR and where you will. Most importantly, by volunteering locally, our pupils who come from diverse backgrounds, learn about others’ lives.

And Your AimS? We’re presently East Cheshire’s only girls’ school. We derive strength from being part of the local community. In time, I would love the school to be the girls’ school of choice in Cheshire.

Alderley edge School for girls. wilmslow road, Alderley edge Sk9 7Qe Tel: 01625 583028. aesg.co.uk December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | Education News

northwich pupils to be given golden opportunity Following the whirlwind of Rio, Matt is keen to turn his focus back to the river and the sport he loves.

“It is great to start coaching at The Grange,” says Matt. “I’m looking forward to helping inspire the next generation of hopeful Olympian rowers!”

Rio Olympic gold medallist Matt Langridge is to pass on his expertise and inspiration to students at The Grange School, near Northwich in Cheshire, after taking up a role working with the school’s elite rowers.

Matt should find a rich talent pool to work with at the school. Former pupil Emily Ford won a silver medal at the World Rowing Under 23 Championships in Rotterdam this summer, her brother Tom Ford became a world champion at the World University Rowing Championships in Poznan, Poland, and current pupil Ellie Cushen secured gold in the under 15s girls’ single sculls at the British Rowing Junior Championships in July.

“This is a fabulous opportunity for the school’s rowers to work with someone who has done it at the very top of the sport,” says Graham Jump, Head of Rowing at The Grange School. “He knows what it takes to reach the top and will pass his knowledge and experience on to our most promising rowers, whilst providing inspiration to all.”

Matt is currently taking some time away from elite level rowing after winning gold, as part of the men’s eight, at the Rio Olympics. The Rio gold provided a fitting finale to a career that spanned four Olympic Games, beginning with Athens in 2004. Post-Athens, Matt went on to have a glittering career, picking up silver at the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and bronze at London 2012, not to mention a hatful of medals of every colour at various world and European championships.

Premier Foods boss goes back to school in didsbury

Gavin Darby, CEO at Premier Foods, joined Year 12 students at Parrs Wood High School to help them understand how lessons learnt both in and out of the classroom can help as they move into working life.

Grocery leaders and employees from shop floor to head office, across manufacturing and retailing, are taking part in IGD’s Feeding Britain’s Future Schools Programme to help 13 to 17-year-olds gain the skills they need to find work.

The Schools Programme is part of IGD’s wider Feeding Britain’s Future campaign, now in its fifth year, and has helped thousands of young unemployed people with employability skills training.

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It’s the first time any industry has come together to provide a full spectrum of support for schoolchildren right through to the wider unemployed.

“As an industry, it's critical we engage with the next generation to expose them to the huge variety of career opportunities available in the food and drink sector,” says Gavin Darby. “The Feeding Britain's Future school sessions are an excellent way to help students understand how they can turn what they’ve learnt at school into life skills, to give them confidence and, hopefully, inspire them to one day consider a career in food and drink. At Premier Foods, we believe strongly in the need to develop skills in young people, and we're proud to be a supporter of this IGD initiative."

Salutions Publications | Education

A Parents' Guide to Revision Mrs Sally Petrie, Assistant Head, Cheadle Hulme School The internet is awash with revision advice for stressed students whenever exams approach, but what about parents? how can we best manage the carrot and stick balance, whilst maintaining our own sanity? recognise exams can genuinely be very stressful for students – particularly for those who are working really hard, but often equally for those who know they should be, but aren’t!

Stock up on food. Foraging teenagers at home all day can wreak havoc with your normal family eating patterns, but being prepared is half the battle. Ask them to help with the shopping list. Fill your cupboards, fridge and fruit bowl with the things they crave when needing a boost.

Make meal times a welcome break from revision by serving their favourite food.

Whilst we might like to insist on ‘brain food’, such as oily fish and broccoli, in reality, making sure they eat well might come down to sacrificing healthy options for comfort food just for a little while. help them to get a decent night’s sleep.

Clean bedding, new pillows and tidy bedrooms all help to make going to bed at a reasonable time more appealing. Whilst late night cramming can seem like a good

short-term solution, the longer-term effects of sleep deprivation can be damaging to overall performance.

Discourage caffeine overload by having alternative drinks in the house; try introducing Ovaltine, Horlicks or herbal teas to younger palates.

Try not to nag. Most students actually do know the importance of revision and exams; they don’t need you to keep pointing out how much they still have to do. It doesn’t help, and often ends up elevating stress levels for everyone in the family.

Try very hard to encourage your sons and daughters to leave their phones in another room whilst revising. Most teenagers find it impossible to avoid checking their phone every few minutes, and this is probably the single greatest distraction from revision they have to deal with. Help them to manage this – sit down and discuss the benefits together. get them out into the fresh air whenever you can. They’ll get freaked out if you insist on lengthy family outings, but quick bursts of activity are very helpful – so a quick walk to the local shops or even just 20 minutes in the garden can be the best options.

get involved. Offer to test them. This can be a great way of offering your support in a practical way. Praise them for what they get right and never criticise them for what they don’t; testing is diagnostic and needs to feel positive to be effective. if your children are older... go out! Leave them alone for a while. Some parents think they have to be there all the time to ‘crack the revision whip’, but parents need a break too. Your children will appreciate having the house to themselves, and feel that you are trusting them… always a good thing.

Agree on rewards/targets/treats. Whether it’s festival tickets, post-A Level adult-free holidays, family trips or just a restful break, get involved with planning the ‘end point’ reward your son or daughter is working towards. Yes, it’s all about getting the best exam results they can, but actually, it’s the fun stuff that will be the biggest motivator. Perhaps have your own post-revision treat booked too!

Learn to step back. Helicopter parents radiate stress; stay calm and your children (and you) will get through the exam season much more easily and successfully.

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MGS linguists win two trophies at debating championships

Talented linguists at The Manchester Grammar School (MGS) enjoyed their most successful year ever at the North Schools’ Modern Foreign Languages Debating Competition, winning two trophies. Sixth Form students at MGS travelled to Cheadle Hulme School on17th November for the annual competition, and entered teams in all four categories – French, German, Russian and Spanish.

The boys competed against schools from across the north and debated issues – ranging from 'Brexit is the answer' to 'numbers are better than letters' – in all four languages.

The Russian team defended their title by defeating Bolton School Boys’ Division. Despite some serious competition, victories over Bolton School Girls’ Division, Cheadle Hulme School and Wilmslow High School in the semi-final took the French team to the final, where they were narrowly defeated by a very strong Cheadle Hulme High School team. The German boys swept through the opening rounds before winning a closely-fought final against Manchester High School for Girls, debating the merits of a universal language.

World famous gymnast visits Alderley girls Alderley Edge School for Girls welcomed Britain’s greatest ever gymnast into school. Beth Tweddle, renowned for her Olympic and Commonwealth successes, hosted a Junior School assembly and also held a Q&A session with the school’s Sports Scholars.

Beth, who is used to wowing global audiences with her gymnastics, spoke to the junior girls about the benefits of gymnastics, wellbeing and nutrition, and her time on the TV show Dancing on Ice, which she won alongside Daniel Whiston in 2013.

The school also welcomed Sue Farndon, the Cheshire Regional Co-ordinator for Total Gymnastics, who provide recreational gymnastics courses for all different ages and abilities, including the Beth Tweddle Gym Stars programme for the under 7s and the Total Gymnastics Academy for those aged 8 and over.

Former MGS pupil publishes his wartime memoirs

A fascinating new autobiography that documents what life was like at one of the UK’s oldest schools during the Second World War has been published. Ian Davidson, who attended The Manchester Grammar School between 1942-1951, has written Glimpses of Notes: Memories of MGS 1942-51, which charts his experiences as a schoolboy at MGS during the 1940s and early 1950s.

The book also paints a rich portrait of life in wartime and immediate post-war Manchester, and has been widely praised by a number of the school’s alumni, who are now successful authors themselves. Glimpses of Notes: Memories of MGS 1942-51 is a vailable to buy as both a hard copy and eBook on Amazon and iTunes. Proceeds from the sale of the book will go to the school’s Bursary Fund, which provides financial support to bright boys from disadvantaged backgrounds, so that they can attend MGS.

The book is also available from local bookshops using the print-on-demand service.

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Salutions Publications | Education

W

The Elmscot Group Steph Molnar & Dee Dee McKenzie

By Fay Wertheimer

orkmates in scientific software for six years, former marketing manager Steph and European finance manager Dee, quit in spring 2001 to co-found Elmscot Day Nursery in Timperley – the first of four in their award-winning company, providing early years’ education and eight out-of-school clubs for primary pupils.

Neither Steph nor Dee are education professionals. Friendship, trust and expertise in business planning and management underpin their success. Yorkshire-born Steph grew up in South Africa and, in the UK, amassed degrees in biology and business studies from Bristol, London and Warwick universities. Closer to home, Hale-born Dee qualified in management accountancy in Manchester.

Why a nursery? Well, both women were expecting their second child. Work, travel and handling their toddlers became stressful.

The local nursery would close down after Christmas and wasn’t baby-friendly anyway.

They were stumped. Outgoing Steph recalls, “My Mum suddenly suggested I open my own place! How could I? I can’t teach. Then came her unforgettable mantra, ‘Steph, what is there you cannot learn?’”

Steph devised a business plan, Dee joined her and, in July 2001, they employed their first teacher, guaranteeing her compensation if their venture failed. In September, the women bought a large property, spent 18-hours a day scrubbing it clean — in between giving birth and breastfeeding — and, in November, alongside five staff, welcomed 17 little ones into their first nursery. By summer 2002, 60 children were signed up. Relentless networking at antenatal classes, advertising on buses and garnering fellow mums’ support had paid off — and, being parentowners, it was win-win in relation to looking after their own children.

Now a mum of three, Dee says, “People knew what’s good enough for our children, would be good enough for theirs. Though we were office-based and our youngsters were in class, we were in the same building from opening time until closing time. We cooked too, and to relieve other working mums, often sent home ready-made meals we’d prepped for our own families.”

They constantly defer to their teachers’ professionalism (“unlike us, they know what they’re doing with kids!”), follow up their feedback and implement relevant changes.

In fact, Woodlands Nursery opened in February 2006, not merely to absorb Elmscot’s waiting list, but to retain staff

whose careers could not progress at the latter. Now, the Trafford Business Awardwinning company boasts 1,600 registered pupils aged 0 to 11 years, 190 staff (30% with over five years’ service) and teachers, 35% of whom have graduate and post-graduate qualifications.

The duo are no longer service users but providers and, with their kids now teenagers, they work relatively normal hours – when they’re not writing articles or judging national professional awards!

It’s 2016. The Elmscot Group enjoys national, regional, local and sector recognition. It has also turned full circle.

15 years on, past pupils are applying for work experience with their alma mater and expansion is in the pipeline. Steph concludes, “Dee and I started Elmscot as friends, but we had no idea how well we’d complement each other in business too.

We’ve inadvertently created a 200-strong community of like-minded people; passionate about nurturing inquisitive minds. It’s wonderful.” It’s also worlds away from scientific software.

Elmscot Group Tel: 0161 980 0003 w: elmscot.co.uk

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Salutions Publications | Education

Branding | Advertising | Website | Email | Social | PR | Publishing | Print

Manchester High School for Girls An excellent educational experience for girls aged 4-18

Reception Information Morning We are holding an information morning for parents of pre-school age girls. Drop in on Fri 10th February 2017 (9.30am-10.30am) to find out about our Preparatory Department, meet Reception class teachers and have a look around the infants’ facilities.

Manchester High School for Girls: Grangethorpe Road, Manchester, M14 6HS T: 0161 224 0447 W: manchesterhigh.co.uk Charity registration no: 532295

@mhsg

creative@twistedgifted.co.uk www.twistedgifted.co.uk

/ManHighSG

Twistedgifted is shortlisted for the ‘Best Brand Agency’ @ The Talk of Manchester Business Awards 2016

Stockport Grammar School Hockey Girls reach The National Finals for the fourth successive year Stockport Grammar School’s 1st XI hockey team has reached the National Finals for the fourth successive year after coming through the qualifying rounds unbeaten and scoring 60 goals.

The girls defeated Altrincham Grammar (6-1), Cheadle Hulme (2-1), Withington Girls (8-0) and Loreto Grammar (5-1) in the Greater Manchester Round before facing Kirkham Grammar (1-1), Queen Elizabeth Grammar (4-0), Merchant Taylors’ (16-0) and Kings Chester (5-1) in the North West Round. In the group stage of the North Final the squad beat Hymers College 1-0 in a close opening game before finding their rhythm and the back of the net more often against Pocklington (4-0) and Sedburgh (3-0).

In the semi-final the girls again came up against Altrincham Grammar where a determined and resilient effort saw them earn a 3-0 victory, which meant that they would face GSAL in the final. As full time drew near, the score was 1-1 but the SGS girls found one last burst of adrenaline and managed to score the goal that confirmed their place in the National Finals which take place at the Lee Valley Hockey Stadium on the 1st and 2nd March 2017.

Captain Georgina Dare said: “We faced some really tough games against good opposition but we dealt with the pressure well by working as a team.

“The final was quite nerve-wracking but to win it with a last minute goal was the best way to end it. We are really looking forward to the National Finals in March and will be putting in the hard work on the training ground and in the upcoming games”.

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Head of Hockey Miss Sharon Withington added: “This is the fourth consecutive year that we have reached the National Finals and I think that this is the biggest achievement. The girls put in so much effort and determination and showed real grit throughout the Greater Manchester, North West and North rounds to ensure qualification and they fully deserve this.” The team will be bidding to emulate their 2015 success when they beat Cranleigh 1-0 to be crowned National Champions.

Salutions Publications | People

Lucia Davies Children’s entertainer, turned author talks to Emily Fitzgibbons about her new book, Mingling with Mayors, The Pod Trail, and becoming the next Esther Rantzen…

As I sit down with Lucia, she is warm and welcoming, with an air of calmness about her that you wouldn’t expect from someone who is about to become the next big thing.

With a diploma in nursery nursing and child development, and with over 20 years’ experience working with children, I’m not surprised when she tells me she knows exactly what makes little ones tick.

ALL CHILDREN ARE EQUAL

TAKING POD INTO THE CLASSROOM… AND ONTO TV!

From famous faces such as the Rooneys and the Cheshire Housewives set, to families on the breadline, Lucia has entertained children from all walks of life. She believes that all children should be treated equally, whether they are privileged or not. She says resilience is key when it comes to working with children who show signs of bullying behaviour: “I only reward good behaviour and I will work with one particular child until they get it right, no matter how long it takes.”

It’s this kind of attitude and determination that has enabled her to be so successful in her quest to stop bullying behaviour for good.

After adopting daughter Frankie six years ago, at the age of 35, Lucia decided it was time to quit the long hours and weekend work, and spend more time with her daughter. And so Pod was born – the story of a small, green lizard with a kind heart.

Working alongside many different mayors, as well as with the Greater Manchester Police and Cheshire Constabulary, Lucia has managed to get Pod into schools and taught in the classroom. She is often asked to lead assemblies; using her comedic improvisation skills to engage with the children whilst also firmly delivering a message.

And this isn’t the first time Lucia has taken centre stage. She’s previously been interviewed to feature on popular television shows, such as Dragons’ Den, and competitions like Pitch to Rich, and has performed to large crowds at festivals and launches.

And, as if this wasn’t exciting enough, Lucia’s profile is about to be raised even further – with the launch of her own reality television show, which she hopes will lead on to a children’s programme for Pod in the future. She also would like to become the next Ester Rantzen, raising awareness and donating money to young people’s charities for years to come.

Everyone who has helped Lucia to spread the word about Pod are all now on The Pod Trail, a metaphorical pathway leading to both Lucia and Pod’s success.

Pod is dedicated to the late Kirsty Howard, a young woman who raised over £7m for the Manchester hospice where she received care, and whom Lucia used to entertain in hospitals when she was poorly.

FROM ENTERTAINER TO AUTHOR “I’ve always wanted to be a children’s author,” says Lucia, “and Pod is a book different to anything else on the market.”

The book, which is a children’s story with a clear anti-bullying message, is dissimilar to any other book available. Not only is Pod relatable to both boys and girls, but it is suitable for children aged 3 to 11, a vast and versatile age range.

For more information and to see how you can join The Pod Trail, visit luciaparties.com December/January 2016/17 | salutions.co.uk

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ASK THE

ACCOUNTANTS

What are these changes in Dividend Tax? The Chancellor announced that from April 2016, dividend tax credit will be scrapped and replaced by a tax-free dividend allowance of £5,000 per person, per annum. In addition, the rates of taxation on dividend income above the £5,000 level have been increased to the following: • • •

7.5% for basic-rate taxpayers; 32.5% for higher-rate taxpayers; 38.1% for additional-rate taxpayers.

How might this affect me if…..

I receive £10,000 of dividend income and earn £10,000 of non-dividend income.

I am a higher-rate taxpayer as a result of my non-dividend earnings and I receive dividends totalling £3,000 per annum.

Under the new regime this individual would pay no tax on their dividend income, as it would fall within the £5,000 dividend allowance. Under the current rules this would be taxed at a marginal rate of 25%, giving rise to a tax bill of £750. Hence this individual would be better off by £750.

As you can see from these examples, anyone with non-dividend income at or above the personal allowance level (£11,000 per annum) and receiving dividends above the £5,000 per annum level would be worse off under the new regime.

This is because the marginal rates for all taxpayers on that dividend income are higher than they were previously.

What can be done by your accountant?

•

• The first £5,000 of dividend income would be covered by the dividend allowance, so would be tax free. The £10,000 of non-dividend income and a further £1,000 of dividend income would be covered by the personal allowance.

•

• The remaining £4,000 of dividend income will be taxed at the new basic rate of 7.5% for dividends, leaving £300 of tax to pay. This is £300 more than a taxpayer would pay under the previous regime – where, as a basic-rate taxpayer, the effective rate on dividends is 0% and the non-dividend income would have been covered by the personal allowance.

Or if…..

•

Review and amend the structure of a limited company to minimise the personal tax liabilities of business owners.

Advise on the tax efficiency of shareholdings to make use of any allowances which are available to the shareholder.

Monitor and allocate any withdrawals by business owners as tax efficiently as possible throughout the year.

Advise on potential liabilities periodically throughout the financial year so that share holders can ensure money will be available at due dates.

Advise shareholders on the timing of dividends during the year to minimise tax liabilities where possible.

If you have an accountancy related question that you would like answered; simply contact us below and it could appear in the next issue...

TBD Chartered Accountants E: enquiries@tbdaccountants.co.uk | T: 0161 850 2804 @tbdtweeting @tbdaccountants

We are delighted to share our recent award with you‌

Kellands Chartered Financial Planners provide a full advisory service for private & corporate clients on

Tax Planning. Investments. Pensions. Mortgages.

INVEST WITH CONFIDENCE Call the team on 0161 9298838 Kellands (Hale) Limited, 24 Victoria Road, Hale, Altrincham, WA15 9AD. www.kelland-hale.co.uk The value of investments can go down as well as up. Past performance is no indicator of future returns. It is your responsibility to ensure you keep up with the monthly payments on your mortgage, otherwise your home may be at risk. Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

What is a “fair” settlement following divorce or separation

Liz Cowell, Principal Lawyer and Family Law Arbitrator, Slater and Gordon

No two divorces are the same. But there is one important factor in all divorces: the actions of each party can have a huge impact on how fair the final settlement is.

From my experience as a Family lawyer and a deputy district judge I do believe it is possible to reach a settlement with your ex amicably without the need to go to court.

However, I often see that fail, and when it does my advice is that you should put yourself in a position of knowing what a fair settlement looks like for you and, understand the process.

To assist you with these thoughts, I have shared the most frequently asked questions from my clients who have faced this situation.

Q: Does the court use a formula to divide assets?

The simple answer is yes.

The court will start from the basis of a 50/50 division of assets between you and your ex-partner. However, our law is discretionary and the court looks to achieve fairness not equality.

Q: What does this mean?

Equal division of assets is only deemed fair if both parties’ needs can be met.

Q: Can my ex get a share of the money I inherited from my parents?

Yes, in some circumstances.

First of all, any inheritance must be disclosed to the court.

Your ex will have an interest in any inheritance if it has been

mingled with jointly owned assets, for example invested in the matrimonial home. If the inheritance has been kept in your sole name it will only be treated by the court as a resource to be used to meet needs if the division of the “matrimonial assets” does not do so.

at needs. If your ex is asset poor but income rich you will get maintenance instead.

Q: I do not know what assets my ex holds, how will I find out?

Courts can make orders for life or for a term of years. They can make a clean break order. Each case is decided on individual facts so it’s not advisable to compare your settlement with someone else’s.

Your ex will be under a duty to disclose all savings – including those off shore.

Q: What if my ex hides information from the court?

The Supreme Court has made it clear: the omission of important disclosure could render any order void. Your ex will be warned that this is the case by his or her lawyers.

Q: I am not earning at the moment. Do I have to get a job or does my ex have to maintain me?

If your ex entered into a contract of marriage or civil partnership with you he or she agreed to maintain you for the rest of your life. You owe your partner the same obligation. But courts have a duty to achieve a clean break between separating spouses or civil partners, where possible. This is done by looking

Q: I read in the papers that the courts have told people to go back to work and that they will not award maintenance.

Is this true?

We believe it is important that you seek legal advice during this process. The award winning team I work with have years of experience dealing with financial settlements. The approach we would take and recommend, is to look at the offer with you in the context of what capital is available and what your needs are.

Call us on

0808 175 7909 slatergordon.co.uk Offices in Manchester, Chester and throughout the UK

Slater and Gordon (UK) LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

making divorce better, not bitter We understand that the decision to divorce can feel like jumping into an emotional and financial minefield. Our team of dedicated, highly-regarded lawyers will provide you with clear-cut, jargon-free advice enabling you to take those daunting first steps with confidence. Our approach is objective and pragmatic, ensuring that you get the best service from start to finish without undue delay and spiralling costs.

Your best interests are our priority.

Divorce | Financial Settlements | Civil Partnerships | Cohabitation Disputes Pre and Post-Nuptial Agreements | Child Arrangement Orders | Emergency Injunctions Divorce and Family Law Specialists Pabla + Pabla Solicitors. The Old Town Hall, Lapwing Lane, West Didsbury M20 2NR www.pablasolicitors.co.uk

Call us today for a free initial consultation 0161 446 1748

Salutions Publications | People

This is My Life… with Nicola Wilburn-Shaw Nicola Wilburn-Shaw, Head of Family Law at Didsbury’s Pabla+Pabla, talks about motherhood, Christmas, and using her own life experiences to deliver a compassionate service to clients in matrimonial crisis…

By Lisa Symonds / Image Mike Browne

It’s 7pm when divorce lawyer Nicola sneaks in a chat with Salutions. Her two-year-old daughter Amalie is refusing to sleep, but tonight, luckily, dad’s on bedtime duty at the Wilburn-Shaw’s Hale home. It is instantly clear in the first few minutes of talking to Nicola that she is bright, funny, and extremely busy. “Life is so hectic,” she laughs, “but I’m not complaining!”

FOLLOWING HER HEART Shortly before Amalie was born, Nicola left behind the fast-paced world of international corporate law firms to work closer to home and focus her career solely on what she was truly passionate about – family law. Nicola’s parents divorced when she was nine. It was acrimonious, protracted and tore the family apart. It’s this “emotionally raw” experience that drives Nicola’s wholly empathetic – and successful – approach to the divorce process: “You have to see things from the point of view of everyone involved,” explains Nicola. “You can’t see it as a war and have to abandon that ‘I’m going to win’ mentality. I put up a pretty tough fight when necessary, but by seeing things from the other’s point of view, you can work out how to achieve the fairest and best outcome amicably and, importantly, quickly and cost-effectively. You also have to become a bit of a personal counsellor; divorce is a time of deep anguish for most. My clients always say, ‘I couldn’t have got through this without you – on a personal level and not just as a lawyer’. That is what drives me.”

Nicola is a hard-line, tough lawyer, but clearly a people person who cares about her clients and becomes a huge source of legal and emotional support.

and wine tasting events like the monthly Fizz Club at Hale Wine Bar. It’s a great way to get together with friends and do some business networking at the same time.

I enjoy beauty treatments, when I get the rare chance. I am a devout supporter of local business in my village, Hale; I am a regular at HOB salon in Hale and Opium in Hale Barns. I used to do yoga and Pilates daily, but my idea of Pilates now is getting Amalie out of the bath when she doesn’t want to get out!”

WEDDING BELLS Away from the office, Nicola reveals that, less than a month ago, she married university sweetheart Damian: “I’m still getting used to calling him my husband!” laughs the 37-year-old. There’s been little room for a honeymoon, what with the demands of work and motherhood, but a family holiday is planned for next year.

When time allows, they love to eat out – “We are regulars at Piccolino in Hale, Amalie really likes it there, we all do” – and spend time in the Cheshire countryside, such as Nicola’s personal favourite, Dunham Massey.

FIZZ, PAMPERING & IMPROMPTU PILATES We wondered if Nicola ever had the chance to unwind and, if she did, what helped her to relax…She laughs out loud… “Red wine!

I am very much a foodie and so I love food

JUST THE THREE OF US Nicola adores Christmas and, this year, it’s going to be a family affair. With her department at Pabla+Pabla expanding (and January being one of the busiest times of the year for divorce), the festive season will be an opportunity for Nicola to catch her breath. “I’m not a bad cook, but it will be a Booths delivery this year!” she smiles.

“Freshly-prepared stuff that, cheekily, hasn’t been prepared by me! I just want to spend the entire day with my daughter and my husband, and not in the kitchen.”

MOTHER. LAWYER. ROLE MODEL. “It’s not easy, but you can be a mum and have a successful career,” says Nicola, as our chat comes to a close. “Modern-day career women juggling family life with work have to be superwomen, but I certainly couldn’t do it without support from my husband and the understanding of the Partners I work for. I am so grateful to be able to do what I love, whilst not missing out on seeing my daughter grow up. I don’t see my work as a job, it is a part of me and my being, and I want Amalie to have a good role model. I want her to think, ‘My mum was a strong, professional woman, but she was always around and a good mum’.”

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Salutions Publications | Entertainment

WHAT’S ON Christmas brings out the best in theatres and venues, and this year is no exception: catch traditional panto at the Oldham Coliseum, Manchester Opera House or Stockport Plaza; experience West End hit musicals such as Billy Elliot at the Palace and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at The Lowry; try a new twist on the Christmas theme with Cinderella at Octagon Theatre Bolton; or get in the festive spirit with some yuletide screenings at HOME, The Bridgewater Hall and The Albert Halls. And don’t forget that event tickets make perfect last-minute gifts. By Catherine Reed

boy’s journey from boxing ring to ballet class, and his passionate fight to make his dreams come true. This wonderful production features a score by Elton John and is a really wonderful way to celebrate the Christmas season.

Peter Pan Stockport Plaza

Fri 2 Dec – Sun 8 Jan

Billy Elliot

CHRISTMAS SHOWS Sleeping Beauty Oldham Coliseum

Until Sat 7 Jan

The Coliseum’s traditional panto has glitz, glamour, silliness and slapstick – everything you could want for some seasonal fun. Oh yes it has!

Cinderella Octagon Theatre Bolton

Until Sat 14 Jan

This Cinderella may have all the traditional elements of a festive tale, but with one big difference – the rats are in charge! Join Whiskers, Tail, Teeth, Ears and Claws as they tell their story through music, dance and song, and squabble their way through to a hilarious fairy-tale ending. A show for all the family from award-winning writer Mike Kenny.

Billy Elliot the Musical Palace Theatre

Tue 29 Nov – Sat 28 Jan

Billy Elliot the Musical is on its first UK tour. Set in a northern mining town during the miners’ strike of 1984/85, it’s the inspirational story of a young 108

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Stockport’s Christmas show stars John Altman (aka EastEnders’ ‘Nasty Nick’) as Captain Hook in a fabulous family panto featuring lots of interactive fun, super sets and a great supporting cast.

Sweet Charity Royal Exchange Theatre

Sat 3 Dec – Sat 28 Jan

A Very 80s Christmas at HOME HOME

Fri 9 – Thu 22 Dec

A season designed to showcase some of the best films from the 80s – films that entertained and inspired a generation with some well-loved Christmas classics in there, such as Santa Claus: The Movie and Scrooged. HOME are also hosting a special Enchantment Under The Sea disco on 9th December, spinning classic 50s hits until 10.04pm (the exact time when the clock tower was hit in Back to the Future), when the music changes to the 80s, and there is even talk of a DeLorean making an appearance. Go to homemcr.org for full listings.

Aladdin Opera House

Charity, a dancer in New York, has a habit of falling for the wrong man, until she meets shy tax accountant Oscar and it seems her luck has finally changed. The score is packed with big numbers including Big Spender, If My Friends Could See Me Now and Rhythm of Life, and features some fabulous dance routines.

Festive family fun is promised with Loose Women star Sherrie Hewson and Cold Feet’s John Thomson in this year’s fabulous panto at the Opera House. Eric Potts, one of the best dames in the business, stars as Widow Twankey.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang The Lowry

Wow! Said the Owl HOME

The fabulous Chitty Chitty Bang Bang flies into Salford this month, complete with a brilliant cast, including Jason Manford, Claire Sweeney and Phill Jupitus. This wonderful musical broke box office records in the West End, and reviews of the countrywide tour have been wonderful. Music and Lyrics, who produce the show, also brought The King & I and Fiddler on the Roof to the stage, so you can expect great sets and costumes, a little magic and, of course, Chitty herself. A super show for all the family this Christmas.

The acclaimed children’s book by Tim Hopgood is brought to life through a blend of storytelling, puppetry and music. This lovely show is suitable for children aged 2 to 5 years and their families.

Tue 6 Dec – Sun 15 Jan

Fri 9 Dec – Sun 8 Jan

Wed 14 – Fri 30 Dec

Elf Christmas House Party Albert Halls

Sat 17 Dec

A brilliant Elf-themed party featuring a screening of Christmas classic Elf, a beer festival, an elf circus and a live band. What’s not to love?

Salutions Publications | Entertainment

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

The Man Who Planted Trees Royal Exchange Studio

Mon 19 – Sat 31 Dec

This touching, funny, multi-sensory show tells the story of a shepherd who plants a forest, acorn by acorn, transforming a barren wasteland and showing the difference that one man (and his dog) can make.

The Snowman – screening with live orchestra The Bridgewater Hall

Tue 20 & Wed 21 Dec (two screenings daily) Experience Raymond Briggs’ animated classic accompanied by The Hallé – a real Christmas treat. The first part of the concert also features Paddington Bear and his very first concert at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

Elf the Musical

by the global textile industry.

Featuring stunning video and a powerful score, the show gives you a first-hand experience of the sharp end of fashion.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time The Lowry

Sat 21 Jan – Sat 4 Feb

Winner of five Tony Awards in 2015 and Manchester Theatre Awards’ Best Visiting Production 2015, this thrilling play returns to The Lowry for a two-week run. Stockport-born Simon Stephens adapted Mark Haddon’s award-winning novel and Marianne Elliott directs this stunning National Theatre production. This is a great show to chase away any post-Christmas, January blues!

André Rieu Manchester Arena

CHRISTMAS gIFT IDEAS

André Rieu, together with his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra and many international soloists, returns to the Arena.

Sat 4 & Sun 5 Feb

Thu 22 Dec

Christmas at the Movies The Bridgewater Hall

Fri 23 Dec

Join The Hallé for an evening of music from Christmas movies, including White Christmas, Frozen, Happy Feet and The Polar Express.

Conducted by Stephen Bell.

DRAMA World Factory HOME

Strictly Come Dancing Live Manchester Arena

matinée date added for the Sunday, this is a great gift idea for any Man United fan.

Sleepless the Musical The Lowry

Tue 25 – Sat 29 Apr

With a star cast about to be announced, this world premiere, based on the movie classic Sleepless in Seattle, is set to be the most romantic musical comedy you will see all year. Treat your special someone to a night of romance, heart and humour.

Elf the Musical The Lowry

Sat 25 Nov 2017 – Sun 7 Jan 2018 What better gift could you give this Christmas than a ticket to next year’s musical spectacular Elf at The Lowry?

One of the best Christmas movies ever will be live on stage, so don’t miss out – join Buddy and his pals by getting in the 2017 festive spirit early and bagging the best seats!

Hot on the heels of the glittering FAB-U-LOUS TV show, comes the live stage experience, featuring many of the stars from recent shows.

Funny girl Palace Theatre

Sat 18 – Sat 25 Feb Fresh from a record-breaking West End run, this terrific production stars Olivier award-winning Sheridan Smith as Fanny Brice, a role that brought global fame to Barbra Streisand 50 years ago.

Wed 7 Dec – Sat 10 Dec

An Evening with Eric Cantona The Lowry

From the factory floor to the catwalk, and fresh from a sell-out run at the Young Vic, World Factory weaves together stories of people connected

The incomparable Eric Cantona takes to The Lowry stage for a rare public appearance in February. With an extra

Wed 22, Thu 23 & Sun 26 Feb

Eric Cantona

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Gadgets

THE BEST ACTION CAMERA EVER?

to a pet’s back to see what the dog sees as it sniffs around, and millions of commuters use them as dashcams, to capture footage of other road users’ misdemeanours or to protect themselves in cases of dodgy insurance claims.

They’ve even become industry standard among professionals. From roving news reporters to location film crews, they all have GoPro cameras not much bigger than a matchbox as an essential part of their kit. Wondering how they get that cinema-quality on-board footage of fast cars on Top Gear? The cars are covered in GoPros. Amazed by the televised on-bike action in the Tour de France? GoPros.

The action camera market is huge now, perhaps even bigger than its pioneers could ever have predicted.

Originally intended for extreme sports nuts to capture footage of their skydiving, kayaking or mountain biking adventures, these tiny high-res video cameras have now become ubiquitous – and the daddy of them all is GoPro.

Rugged and waterproof, miniscule and lightweight, intuitive to use and capable of capturing up to two hours of ultrahigh-definition film on one battery charge. It also has image stabilisation (great for mountain bikers) and voice control for those who don’t want to be pressing buttons in the heat of the action.

It’s simple to use with one-button activation and a touchscreen viewfinder, although critics say you really have to take the time to master the different settings and features in order to truly get your money’s worth.

I disagree with the critics; even if you only ever use it to point and shoot, the results for under £350 are astonishing.

The latest top of the range model is the HERO5 Black edition. It is truly amazing.

By Oliver Chesher

GoPro has become synonymous with action cameras, just as we all say Google instead of ‘search’. The multi-billion-dollar company is so dominant that other brands can only fight over a distant second place.

It doesn’t just manufacture the best hardware, it is also a global media company, with one of the biggest channels on YouTube and content published across Virgin, Xbox and PlayStation.

Today, GoPros are everywhere, and it’s not just sports people who are clamping them onto bikes, helmets, harnesses or boats for adrenalinefuelled YouTube videos. They’re loved by parents for capturing baby’s first steps, dog owners can strap them

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Salutions Publications | Motoring

TIgUAN gETS DESIgN NOD

By Oliver Chesher

Visiting the local Volkswagen dealers earlier this year, we were struck by the startling differences between the rows of approved used Tiguans on the forecourt and the new model in the showroom. The celebrated compact SUV was always popular and well put together, but tended to look – shall we say – rather more practical than dynamic. The sort of sensible car your mum would approve of.

Not any more though – it’s had a redesign and gone all fancy. The Volkswagen design team, led by Klaus Bischoff, has given the second generation Tiguan an elegant appearance. The new one is longer, wider and lower in height compared to its predecessor.

The result is a striking SUV profile, with distinctive proportions and a much more imposing design. At the front, the radiator grille and LED projection headlights unit (fitted as standard in the Highline equipment option) emphasise the powerfully-upright, overall impression.

It seems we weren’t the only ones to notice, as the celebrated compact SUV has now been recognised with a prestigious German Design Award by the German Design Council. These awards are recognised as one of the most prestigious design competitions in the world, and next year’s ‘Transportation’ category will be dominated by one impressive-looking vehicle.

KUgA gETS IN ON THE ACT Very similar in size and price range, just as the Tiguan is more than just a ‘Golf on stilts’, so the Kuga stands above the shadow cast by its big-selling closest relative, the Focus.

The discerning buyer can now get a super, high-end version of the new Kuga, part of Ford’s Vignale range (or ‘portfolio’, as Ford is calling it, not to be outdone on poshness by VW and its design award). Exclusive specifications and high-quality materials include tuxedo-stitched Windsor leather interiors and unique Vignale colours and detailing, including the signature Ford Vignale hexagonal grille design. …And Volkswagen’s not the only one going upmarket with its compact SUVs. Ford has clearly been doing the same market research and sussed out that buyers are demanding increasing levels of quality from their off-roaders and softroaders.

Ford’s Kuga is a direct competitor to the Tiguan above.

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And the Vignale experience doesn’t just stop there.

Ford Vignale customers will get their own lounge at the dealership, a relationship manager, a lifestyle concierge and a smartphone app with one-touch connection to Vignale services worldwide. How about that for luxury and service? Your move, VW.