Senior Times Magazine September 2014 by SeniorTimes Ireland

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September 2014

Contents News review:

Remembering Digby Morton:

Matthew J Hughes profiles one of Ireland’s greatest ever fashion designer

Ever tried to trace your family’s history:

A preview of the genealogy event Back To Our Past A tale of two cities:

John Low spent an enjoyable break in Madrid and then jumped on a high speed train to Valencia.. Ireland’s El Dorado:

Jim Rees recalls the 1795 Wicklow ‘gold rush’ ‘Community care’ or independence?:

Dr Ivor Browne traces the history and ‘considerable success’ of the community based psychiatric concept which challenged the age-old practice of confining patients to institution.

Creative writing:

A publisher who cares about books and writers 54

Fashion: Mairead Robinson offers some tips for dressing to flatter your figure Wine World:

Chile still a hot favourite with Irish wine lovers 1066 and all that:

Aine O’Connor visited the popular seaside resort in Sussex, England It’s in the bag:

Mairead Robinson suggests some modern beauty accessories that you can fit in your handbag

Two short stories by William T Ahern:

My dad, the great escaper:

Jim Collier recounts the courageous exploits of his father who escaped from a number of POW camps during WW1 How low can you go:

Dermot Gilleece recalls some notable sub-60 rounds Know your rights:

Advice from the Citizens Information Service

Poetry Corner:

Meeting place:

Sudoku:

Crossword

Crafts: Connie McEvoy shows you how to create a work of art from shells

FRONT COVER: Digby Morton tweed coat and dress 1950, worn by the supermodel of the day Barbara Goalen

Publishing Directors: Brian McCabe, Des Duggan Editorial Director: John Low Editor At Large: Shay Healy Consultant Editor: Jim Collier Advertising: Willie Fallon Design: www.cornerhouse.ie Contributors: Shay Healy, Lorna Hogg, Dermot Gilleece, Matthew Hughes, Maretta Dillon, Jim Collier, Mairead Robinson, Eileen Casey,

Debbie Orme, Connie McEvoy Published by S& L Promotions Ltd., Unit 1, 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6 Tel: +353 (01) 4969028. Fax: +353 (01) 4068229 Editorial: John@slp.ie Advertising: brian@slp.ie Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

News... An innovative approach to home-care for older people For an older person, a period of hospitalisation, or an episode of acute illness can lead to a loss in confidence and the skills needed for everyday activities. This can lead to an extended stay in hospital while waiting for community-based care, or even transfer to a residential setting. One approach to meeting the needs of an older person in this situation is called ‘reablement’ also known as ‘restorative care’ in the US, Australia and New Zealand, and ‘everyday rehabilitation’ in Scandinavia. An innovative study - funded by a prestigious Health Research Board Cochrane Fellowship, and led by Dr Andy Cochrane and colleagues at Maynooth University Department of Psychology - is currently underway to collate and critically analyse the best available evidence across the world, for the effectiveness of this new approach (Cochrane et al, 2013). Dr Cochrane writes: ‘Reablement is different from usual home help services, which tend to focus on doing things for and to older people, rather than enabling them to do things for themselves. In fact, some types of home-care can increase dependency and there is often an assumption that it will continue indefinitely. In contrast, reablement services have a central ethos of: • being available for only a defined period of time (6-12 weeks); • working to achieve goals set by the older person and their family or carer (e.g. a spouse) in collaboration with the reablement team; and • working with the overall aim of maximising independence, choice and quality of life, and reducing the need for support in the future. Ideally, the reablement team is either led by, or has access to, an occupational therapist, whose specialist knowledge can guide the assessment process, goal setting, and design of the treatment plan. The older person, together with their family and the reablement team, decide on individualised goals; these may be related to regaining the ability, or finding different ways, to

Minister opens €1.5m Mallow nursing home Kathleen Lynch TD, Minister of State at the Department of Health and Department of Justice, Equality & Defence with responsibility for Disability, Older People, Equality & Mental Health recently opened a €1.5M extension at Brídhaven Nursing Home, Mallow, Co Cork, and congratulated the home on the creation of 30 new jobs at the facility. Bridhaven, which will now employ 180 people, has secured several quality awards including the prestigious Joint Commission International (JCI) Long Term Care Standard, , the first nursing home outside of the US to achieve this high standard. Page 2 Senior Times September 2014

perform everyday activities, such as cooking a meal, washing and getting out and about. The approach usually consists of a range of interventions, such as exercise, health education and chronic disease self-management, as well as use of assistive aids and modification of the environment, all of which are tailored to meet the goals and needs of the older person. The reablement team supports and motivates the older person, helping them to regain their confidence and the ability to live as independently as possible. A small number of studies, to date, have shown that reablement can increase self-rated health and wellbeing, and improve outcomes such as self-care and mobility. Furthermore, being able to function effectively in the home may reduce the need for ongoing care and unscheduled hospital admissions, whilst also postponing or preventing the need for a move to nursing home care. A service that helps older people to remain living in their own home, and one that reduces pressure on overstretched acute hospitals and/or the need for long-term care, is certainly attractive to service users, family members, carers and policy makers alike. Indeed, the potential benefits of reablement have already been recognised in the UK, including Northern Ireland where, for example, there has been considerable investment in the service. However, while reablement shares some features with services currently available in Ireland, it is not, as yet, commonly used thereby , limiting the choice of most older adults here. This could be due to the fact that more (and better)evidence is needed to help inform and influence policy decisions. To this end, we anticipate that the findings of our study (available from early 2015) will be an invaluable addition to our knowledge and understanding about the benefits (or otherwise) of this new approach’. For more information, contact Dr Andy Cochrane at andy.cochrane@nuim.

Speaking at the opening Minister Lynch said: ‘The creation of 30 new jobs here is a great boost to the area, and augurs well for the future of Brídhaven as a nursing home committed to such high standards as JCI accreditation. I cannot emphasise enough the importance of maintaining quality care standards for older people and I wish to use this opportunity to encourage other facilities to grow their businesses, as I believe that, with quality care comes business, and ultimately more jobs are created in the industry in communities all over Ireland. Our older people deserve the best and I am full square behind those committed to providing the best care possible’. Brídhaven was purchased in 2004 by Paul

Minister Kathleen Lynch, with owner Paul Rochford, at the opening of the Bridhaven Nursing Home extension

and MaryClare Rochford and offers shortterm, convalescent and long-term care. It also offers a comprehensive and approved service to people suffering from dementia and those who have an acquired brain injury. www.seniortimes.ie

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News

‘Crisis’ in operation of ‘fair deal’ nursing homes scheme The extent of care crisis in older person care because of inordinate delays in Nursing Home Support Scheme (Fair Deal) release of financial support is outlined in a Nursing Homes Ireland survey of private and voluntary nursing homes. The survey of 122 private and voluntary nursing homes has revealed a substantial crisis in the operation of Fair Deal, with older persons requiring the specialist and continuous care of nursing homes typically waiting beyond three months from application to funding drawdown. The survey reveals the inordinate delays are causing deterioration in older persons’ health and causing them and their relatives significant distress, worry and hardship.

• Persons are being readmitted to acute hospitals because delay in Fair Deal financial support is resulting in them being unable to avail of the continuous, specialist care provided in nursing homes. Families cannot provide the required care at home and older persons are consequently being readmitted to hospitals. Older persons and their families are aggrieved the delay in funding approval is limiting care options.

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• Persons have passed away while awaiting Fair Deal financial support.

Age Action welcomes Government’s commitment to ‘full retention’ of Travel Pass scheme

• Hospitals are coming under pressure because persons are availing of care within such settings due to inability to access nursing home care because of lengthy Fair Deal financial support delays

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The survey conducted Thursday 3rd July – Monday 7th July extracted information in respect of typical waiting times for Fair Deal applications and impact inordinate delays are having upon older persons awaiting financial support. Key findings emanating from the survey include: • 84.4% (103 nursing homes) were aware of a person/persons who have been Fair Deal approved but are awaiting the release of funding to support their care. • 96 nursing homes stated collectively they were aware of 364 successful Fair Deal applicants awaiting financial support – an average of 3.8 persons per nursing home. • Asked to advise of typical waiting times for Fair Deal support from initial application to funding release, over half of respondents – 51.6% (62 nursing homes) said waiting time is exceeding 10 weeks. Almost half – 48.1% (59 nursing homes) - said waiting time is three months (12 weeks) or beyond. One Leinster nursing home said it is aware of 29 successful Fair Deal applicants awaiting financial support. A South nursing home said up to 20 persons are awaiting, and other individual nursing homes said they were aware of seven, eight and nine persons awaiting. The survey participants, who were from counties across Ireland, advised: • Inordinate delays in receiving Fair Deal financial support are leading to extended, unnecessary stays in acute, district and community hospitals. Page 4 Senior Times September 2014

Dogs Trust is Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity and runs a state of the art rehoming centre located in Finglas, Co. Dublin which saves the lives of and rehomes over 1,500 puppies and adult dogs every year. Dogs Trust’s mission is to bring an end to the destruction of stray and abandoned dogs. They aim to achieve this through their Nationwide Neutering, Education and Microchipping Campaigns. Dogs Trust does not receive Government funding and their work is only possible thanks to the generosity of the public. As part of Best Will in the World Week this October, Dogs Trust are asking people to consider them when leaving a legacy. This heart warming act of kindness can ensure that Dogs Trust continue to make a real difference to the lives of so many puppies and dogs across Ireland – and it will cost you nothing in your lifetime. For more information and to receive a legacy pack please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1004 or email legacyinfo@dogstrust.ie

Age Action has warmly welcomed the Government’s commitment to protect the Travel Pass scheme for older people, and the inclusion of this commitment in its statement of priorities for the remaining three years of the current administration. Age Action launched a campaign last month to highlight the importance of the travel pass scheme and to rally political support for its protection, in the light of the terms of reference of a major review which is underway into the scheme. “We are happy to wind down the campaign following the Government’s commitment to the ‘full retention’ of the scheme, contained in the statement of its priorities for 2014-16,” Age Action spokesperson Eamon Timmins said. “We are grateful to all politicians who helped secure this commitment, both those who publicly backed the campaign as well as those who worked behind the scenes,” he said. The older people’s charity is also deeply grateful to groups from a broad spectrum of society who supported the campaign, as well as to older people and their families who contacted their local politicians to demand their support. www.seniortimes.ie

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Lower your energy bills: avail of a grant through SEAI’s scheme Grants are available for home energy upgrades through SEAI’s Better Energy Homes scheme. Under this Government funded scheme you can get grants for roof insulation, internal / external wall insulation, high efficiency boilers, solar panels and heating controls. If your home was built before 2006, you could benefit. About the Better Energy Homes scheme The Better Energy Homes scheme, administered by SEAI, provides assistance by way of fixed cash grants to homeowners to reduce energy use, costs and greenhouse gas emissions and improve the comfort levels within their home. What Measures are Eligible? Fixed grants are available to eligible applicants for undertaking the following works: A BER assessment done prior to any works being undertaken will help you identify what areas you need to upgrade. If you are interested in improving the energy efficiency of your home, you should consider the following: Insulation Improving insulation will retain heat in your home for longer and reduce heating costs as a result. Since heat loss through the building fabric can be substantial, insulating your home can have the biggest impact on reducing energy demand and increasing the comfort of your home. Attic Insulation: Up to 30% of the heat produced in your home may be escaping if your roof is uninsulated. Ceiling level roof insulation is generally the most cost effective of any energy efficiency upgrade when the potential savings are considered. Many houses built prior to 2006 and insulated at ceiling level have, at best, 100 mm (4”) of insulation. Upgrading this to the recommended 250-300 mm will save a typical house nearly 20% a year on their heating bill. Wall Insulation: 25-30% of your heat may be lost through the walls so by insulating them you can significantly reduce your heat loss and heating bills. There are three main types of wall insulation, which suit different walls and homes: •Cavity wall insulation – insulation is pumped into the cavity of the wall Page 6 Senior Times September 2014

• Internal insulation – applying insulation to the inside walls of a house •External insulation – wrapping insulation around the outside walls of a house Insulating the walls of your home can save you up to 20% on your annual energy bill. Heating System Upgrade Before examining your heating system, it is important to review how well your house is insulated. Once this is done you can then explore a heating system to suit your needs. If you answer yes to any of the following questions a heating upgrade may be appropriate for you: • Do you currently have a central heating system that heats hot water which is then circulated around your home via radiators or other heat distribution? •Do you lack good heating controls on your heating system? • You currently don’t have a central heating system i.e. you currently only have free-standing electric, gas or solid fuel heaters or fires to heat your home? • Is your current boiler older than 5 years? How to Apply for a grant For a speedy application you can apply online but you may also apply using our postal application form available to download from our website at www.seai.ie/betterenergyhomes. An ‘Application Guide’ is available to aid homeowners in filling out the Scheme Application Form and to explain the full details of the scheme to potential applicants. Before commencing an application you should ensure that: • You are the owner of the home where the work is to be undertaken • The house was built prior to 2006 • You have chosen a registered contractor from the Better Energy Homes registered contractors list. Full details on the grants are available on www.seai.ie/betterenergyhomes or upon request by calling 1850-927000.

Opportunities for volunteering overseas For many retirees, volunteering overseas provides a very worthwhile opportunity to offer their skills and experience to others and to stay young and active. However, it can be tricky to find an opportunity that matches your skills, interest and availability. Although there are over 40 different agencies in Ireland of-

fering overseas volunteering placements, it can sometimes be confusing to evaluate which agency is the best fit for you. What is their ethos? Where and for how long do they send volunteers? Do you need to pay? What role will you have overseas? What relationship do they have with the host community? These are some of the many questions that those considering volunteering overseas may have. Comhlámh, the Irish Association of Volunteers and Development Workers, offers advice and guidance to volunteers, helping them to find an agency and a placement that meets their needs and interest. Their website www.comhlamh.org/volunteeringoptions offers information on a range of issues for volunteers to consider. Through social media you can connect with other and volunteer sending agencies by using #volops. If you would like to find out more about volunteering, meet with returned volunteers and a wide variety of sending agencies, and learn about how to connect online using #volops then come along to the Irish Aid Volunteering Fair on Saturday 11th October in the Printworks in Dublin Castle. More information is available on the Comhlámh website.

The value of the Senior Help Line Senior Help Line, Ireland’s only confidential peer listening service for older people. We received over 30,000 calls in 2013 from older people all over Ireland. In today’s busy world we can often forget the value of talking and listening to each other. Callers can be lonely, anxious, in financial difficulties, worried about home security, health or family. Some callers are depressed or suicidal or may be suffering from elder abuse. Some older people who have few people to talk to phone very regularly for company and social contact. Senior Help Line volunteers are trained to listen and support. Listening costs nothing except time. It is a priceless value in today’s world. It is offered by Senior Help Line every day of the year from 10 am to 10 pm. Ring us on LoCall 1850 440 444. We are ready to listen. All costs are confidential. No landline call costs more than 30 cent. LoCall 1850 440 444 www.seniortimes.ie

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Fashion history

Remembering

Digby Morton.. ‘My suits are really based on architectural lines, but I must say I’m not much interested in evening clothes. The sight of massed rolls of chiffon and lace gives me the shudders’ Digby Morton

Digby Morton: ‘A great innovator’, according to Hardy Amies

Matthew J Hughes traces the life and work of one of Ireland’s greatest fashion designers who, unjustly, is largely forgotten today.

Exotic paddy field location in 1966 for a rosetinted blouse and lime green slacks for Daks

Timeless gown with ruching detail by Digby Morton 1956

Page 8 Senior Times September 2014

For such a small nation, Ireland has produced a disproportionate number of movers and shakers in the world of fashion: think of Harper’s Bazaar editor, Carmel Snow, the currently feted J. W. Anderson, Louise Kennedy, Sybil Connolly, Phillip Treacy, Lainey Keogh and Paul Costelloe, to name but a handful. But in the history of fashion, perhaps its most illustrious name, Digby Morton, invariably figures as a kind of footnote to the story of Sir Hardy Amies, couturier to the Queen. For Irish, and indeed British, people of a certain vintage, however, the name of Digby Morton is one that’s recalled with real affection and admiration. One of the very greatest couturiers Ireland has ever produced, he was justly lauded across the world. And yet, he’s largely unremembered today. There are probably several reasons for this. Perhaps the principal reason for his (relative) obscurity in Ireland now, is due to the fact that Digby made his name in the UK and America. Though it frequently retains huge pride in those who choose to make their fortune www.seniortimes.ie

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Model wearing Digby Morton's camel's hairand-wool suit with a felt cloche by Knox 1953

Fur-trimmed velvet coat 1956

elsewhere, a nation of Ireland’s size, tends to favour sons and daughters who’ve chosen to make their home country their place of work. This isn’t always easy, of course and the circumstances for an ambitious, perhaps even impetuous, youth looking to excel in fashion, were not propitious in the 1920s and so Digby had to leave Dublin. The fashion houses of London were soon to appreciate this maverick and the speed and momentum of his progress, was extraordinary. Naturally though, the apparent ease and effortlessness of his achievements weren’t possible without a bedrock of intense and relentless hard work, application and courage; not to mention boldness of vision. A cursory glance online, reveals that fashion archivists at the Victoria and Albert Museum, have amassed an impressive

Page 10 Senior Times September 2014

collection of his work and innumerable fashion historians and bloggers clearly exhibit a great deal of respect for Digby Morton. Sir Hardy Amies himself regarded him as a bold innovator. This native of Dublin, dressed the great and the good and became a society fixture in the 1950s. As the opening quote illustrates, he was indifferent to eveningwear (he witheringly referred to them as “debutante clothes”). He

www.seniortimes.ie

Gathered blouse 1952

Coat October 1938

generally loathed fuss, clutter and over-elaboration and made it his sartorial mission to create sharp, elegant and clean lines. He was featured in the aforementioned Sir Hardy Amie’s’ two autobiographical works, Just So Far in 1954 and Still Here in 1984. At his height, he was even couturier to Princess Margaret. In 1928 he was recruited to Gray, Paulette and Shingleton in London’s fashionable Mayfair – an outfit which he duly renamed Lachasse. When asked why he re-branded it thus, he replied that at that time, the moneyed elite of London wouldn’t consider anything else but French labels in their wardrobes! He also took a staple of Gaelic culture, Irish tweed, and utterly reinvented it, transforming something hitherto fusty, predictable and bucolic into a chic and covetable item perfect for city wear. For Digby, the cut was everything, so extraneous details were considered verboten. In the 1920s he also reconfigured the look of sportswear, and as you’d imagine, Digby’s creations were a world away from the ugly, branded and unflattering garb that passes for sports attire now, closer by far to what we’d think of as tailored clothing.

Dublin born He was born Digby Henry Morton on the 27th November, 1906 in Dublin, his father and grandfather had been accountants for Guinness and it looked as if he would follow suit (no pun intended). Digby, however, had other plans. Initially studying architecture at the Metropolitan School of Art and Architecture, the impatient and ambitious youth evidently found the prospect of a seven-year apprenticeship unbearable and so he transferred his allegiances from the austere caste of architectural students to the more glittering and racy world of Dublin’s School of Art. After completing his studies, he arrived www.seniortimes.ie

in London in 1922 with a return ticket and £4 in his pocket, initially aiming simply to stay with friends. Doubtless beguiled by the gaudy speed of the metropolis (as measured against the - relatively - quiescent provincialism of Dublin), he decided to stick around, working first at Selfridges in the advertising department and then at Liberty, where he established himself as a display artist and decorator. From there he proceeded to the department store Jays, on Oxford Street, finding employment as a house artist, providing impressions of the latest arrivals from the Parisian catwalk. His greatest break came in 1929, however, whilst drinking in an after hours club in the West End. He was approached by Mayfair couturiers Gray, Paulette and Shingleton, who offered him the post of inhouse fashion designer. He agreed to join the company, on the proviso that he’d have carte blanche to hire his own team and work on his own lines. Setting up in a converted and redesigned garage in Farm Street in Mayfair, Digby Morton had truly arrived. The key material employed for his debut collection, created a sensation and superficially at least, seemed to play to the gallery’s expectations of an Irish designer: Ardara tweeds. But Digby’s take on this quintessentially Irish fabric was characteristically inventive, employing boldly unusual choices of colour, such as duck egg blue, dark brown and lime green! Digby was determined to move beyond the rigid and somewhat austere world of classic English tailoring; he created outfits with a softer more feminine aspect, more in keeping with the nature of the materials he employed, such as Aran knit, worsteds and tweeds. As previously mentioned, this newly formed operation, was duly rechristened Lachasse (Digby observing that in London society, only French fashion houses carried true cachet) and proved an almost instantaneous hit Senior Times September 2014 Page 11

Two military style coats 1939

Dress with bodice, short jacket summer 1949

The ultimate Aran-knit sweater dress, 1955

Digby Morton had his first London operation in Farm Street, Mayfair

Lady Hathaway gingham shirt

with the bright young things of London and far beyond. The company subsequently became a by-word for urbanity and glamour. Low prices, small profits and a voluminous turnover were the order of the day and royalty, the titled and entitled, heiresses and top sportsmen flocked to purchase Digby’s creations and meet “that young Irishman in the garage” as he became known. In 1934, Digby struck out on his own, acquiring offices in Palace Gate, Kensington and in 1936, he married a Fleet Street journalist called Phyllis Painting, better known by her work name of Ann Seymour. She was the editor of what would now be known as a lifestyle magazine, called Woman and Beauty. He also reluctantly began to feature eveningwear in his collections, though it was to be strictly tailored. In 1942, Digby, along with such esteemed contemporaries and his friend and colleague Hardy Amies, Norman Hartnell and Victor Stiebel, joined forces to form the Incorporated Society of London Fashion Designers (also known as the ISFLD) and created a stylish, characteristically unfussy uniform for the Women’s Voluntary Service; the suit cost 79s and 6d. The Incorporated Society of London Fashion Designers advised on various utility clothes, helping to find inventive ways to cope with the scarcity of clothing materials and also creating a bridge between the government and the fashion industry. In total, thirty-four utility garments were finished for mass manufacture and the organisation served as a true morale booster, helping to detract from the grim reality of rationing restrictions.

Post war success After the war, Digby again moved his operation, this time fetching up in Grosvenor Mews; cheaper premises, but far larger. In 1953, he struck gold in the states. The Hathaway Page 12 Senior Times September 2014

Ford advert May 1955

company, who were makers of men’s shirts asked him to put together a collection for women. Taking the example of men’s shirts and their cut and structure, he adjusted them to accommodate women, using blazing colours and bold patterns, often adding bowties to the ensemble. Esteemed magazine Time was so impressed, that they dubbed him “daring Digby”. In 1957, Digby formed Reldan-Digby Morton with Nadler (CEO Cyril Kern), closing his existing offices in the process. By 1963, Digby had transferred his talents to the design and production of menswear, exhibiting at the Cologne Fair with a collection that featured the abundant deployment of Trevira cloth. He’d been prescient enough to see that couture couldn’t last and that true financial success lay with the embrace of prêt a porter (ready-to-wear). Digby had once opined that couture felt stifling and that he really wanted to work with ordinary women rather than titled and privileged ladies. He died in 1983, (having retired a decade earlier) at the relatively early age of 77. At the end of his professional career, he was specialising in menswear, but it’s his feel for women’s tailoring that secured his reputation. Ireland can be justly proud of this scion of Dublin’s professional classes. His professional reputation was immaculate and his expertise, flair, feel for the potential of fabrics and fundamental understanding of how to dress women in a flattering, feminine yet wholly progressive and forward looking manner, was unparalleled. www.seniortimes.ie

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Genealogy

Ever tried to trace your family history but didn’t know where to start? Popular genealogy/history fair returns to RDS for fifth time The hugely popular Back To Our Past Genealogy and Family/Social History Experience returns to The Royal Dublin Society, Dublin, for the fifth time from Friday 17th until Sunday 19th October 2014. The show and is undoubtedly the world’s pre-eminent event for everyone interested in tracing their Irish roots. Apart from the numerous exhibitors, there will also be an extensive presentation programme over the three days. There are two strands of presentations running concurrently. They are free to those attending BTOP and there is no booking facility. All presentations can be attended on a first-comefirst-served basis. There’s a great choice: from care of documents and photographs to exploring personal DNA, family historians have plenty to choose from. Page 14 Senior Times September 2014

The free presentations are hugely popular

A Co Mayo family from around 1910. How far back can you trace your family?

Whatever the interest it will be found here: parish registers, census returns, military records, tracing ancestors from maps, records of baptisms, marriages and funerals, archival products, family tree makers and software, photo restorers, complete publications of books and records from the early 1700s, maps, land registers, information on surnames, leading genealogy websites. This event also provides a unique opportunity for overseasbased families with Irish ancestors to tap into a huge archival resource – all under one roof at the same time. Apart from all the leading international websites, many of the Irish sources will feature, including The Irish National Archives. Numerous exhibitors There will be numerous Irish exhibitors offering unique www.seniortimes.ie

A prominent exhibitor at the show, the award-winning Glasnevin Museum has a record of every person buried in Glasnevin Cemetery since it opened in 1840 and that could provide a gold mine for many people.

Interesting in exhibiting? If you are professionally involved in the field of genealogy or family/social history, run an historic building, museum, or similar attractions or are supplier of related products and services, and you are interested in exhibiting at Back to Our Past, contact the organisers, S&L Promotions Ltd., at: Tel: (003531) 4969028. Email: info@slp.ie

Eric Knowles, known to millions for his appearances on BBC TVs Antiques Roadshow will be giving visitors free valuations of their collectibles.

information. For example The Glasnevin Trust has a record of every person buried in Glasnevin Cemetery since it opened in 1840 and that could provide a gold mine for many people. As winners of Tripadvisor’s Traveller’s choice award in 2013, and listed as one of Dublin’s top 3 attractions, Glasnevin Museum proudly tells the story of modern Ireland through interactive exhibitions and engaging cemetery tours and delivered by personable, well informed guides affording visitors a heightened sense of understanding, and a deeper appreciation of its never forgotten residents.

One of the ‘stars’ of the event will be Eric Knowles, known to millions for his appearances on The Antiques Roadshow. He will be offering free valuations for small items and collectibles, as well as offering value advice from photographs of bigger items.

Known locally as ‘The Dead Centre of Dublin’- Ireland’s largest Cemetery where the social, political and historical timeline of this great city is carved in stone. Irish icons like Collins, de Valera, Parnell, ‘Big Jim’ Larkin, Countess Markievicz, Brendan Behan and Luke Kelly rest peacefully in this original 1830’s Victorian garden cemetery. Key to Glasnevin’s success is the popularity of the tour guides whose enthusiasm is compelling. With one and a half million stories buried in Glasnevin there’s no shortage of tales to tell.

Back To Our Past is on Friday 17th, Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th October. The show opens at 12 noon on Friday 17th until 6pm, and on 11am until 6pm on the other two days.

www.seniortimes.ie

Back To Our Past is also part of a huge lifestyle event for seniors The Over 50s Show. Another associated event is The National Coin and Stamp Fair. Admission to Back To Our Past also offers free admission to these events.

For further information contact the organisers at (003531) 4969028. Email: info@slp.ie Also visit backtoourpast.com Senior Times September 2014 Page 15

Travel The Madrid setpiece that is the Palacio de Cibele

A tale of two cities John Low spent an enjoyable break in Madrid, and then jumped on a high speed train to Valencia.. Madrid, like Paris, Rome or London is one Europe’s great cities and provides the backdrop and attractions for a memorable break. It has, as the man said, everything: places of interest, history, art galleries, museums, markets, shopping for all tastes and pockets, parks, an efficient and cheap transport system, marvellous restaurants and tapas bars, and much, much more. It is a city where you can see and do a lot within the space of a short walk, and perhaps unlike Paris, Rome and London, prices are very reasonable and your Euro therefore goes a lot further than it would in those marvellous cities, not to mention Dublin or Cork. Art ‘A walk among masterpieces ‘is how my guidebook describes ‘the art walk’ along the immensely attractive, tree-lined boulevard that is Paseo Del Padro, slap back in the middle of the most interesting part of the city. There are a number of cultural and historic attractions within this walk but most celebrated would be Museo Reina Sofia, The Prado, the Thysseen-Bornemisza Museum, the Archeological Museum, and the National Library. The Prado is undoubtedly the star and houses a staggering collection of European art, dominated by Velazquez, Goya and Murillo as well as other revered notables. It is open seven days a week and there is a charge, but check and you will find that admission is free at certain times, particularly in the late evening. Page 16 Senior Times September 2014

The Prado art museum is a ‘must’ visit and features all the great of Spanish painting The Thyssen-bornemisza, displays some of the best works from the 18th and 20th century, filling in the gaps not covered by the other establishments on the Walk such as Fauvism and German Expressionism. The Reina Sofia embraces all minority movements. The reorganisation of the permanent collection and the museum’s exhibition programme has as a strong avant-garde message. Something is always happening at these fine museums, and in particular the Prado has an excellent gift shop as well as being a good place to relax over a coffee or

drink’ while the Reina boasts one of the best book shops in the city. Sporting passions If you are not in to art and museums but more interested in sport, particularly soccer, you may want to visit one of the city’s top stadiums where guided tours are on offer. With nine Champions League Cups and 32 Spanish Liga titles, Real Madrid has won more awards than any other club in history. A tour of the Bernabeu allows you on to the pitch. At Atletico Madrid’s stadium more than 1,000 historical items are on display. www.seniortimes.ie

The Retiro park dominated by the statue of Alfonso X11

Guided tours No matter how resourceful and energetic you are, you cannot beat a guided tour to give you that essential rounded view of a city, and here Madrid comes up trumps with a wide variety of sightseeing tours. You can choose from routes by bike, family and group tours and excursions to the Latin and literary quarters and ‘essential Madrid’. (There are specially adapted tours for people with physical, sensory and intellectual disabilities). (www.esmadrid.com/officialguidedtours) The Madrid City Tour by bus is one of the best ways of getting round the city, and you can hop on or off wherever you like. Tickets are usually valid for one or two days. There are two routes: the first one starts at the Prado Museum, travelling through some of the attractive and celebrated thoroughfares until it reaches the oldest part of the city and the Royal Palace. The final stretch brings you back near The Prado and takes you to the Botanical Gardens. The second route starts in the same place but then travels along the city’s main arteries. One of the most spectacular buildings lining this route is the Cibeles Palace. The bus also passes through the Salamanca district with its designer boutiques. (www.esmadrid.com/en/madridcitytour) It’s also worth remembering that Madrid City Council’s website is packed with everything you need to know for making your visit as enjoyable possible. (www.esmadrid.com) www.seniortimes.ie

All human life is here..the hustling, bustling El Rastro market Eating out Madrid is one of the world’s great food capitals and eating out is a delight and remarkably good value. The choice is yours: fine dining posh (with prices to match), trendy neighbourhood restaurants, ethnic eateries, (but why go to Madrid for a Thai curry?) chance finds, and of course the tapas bars which you will find all over the place. (Many of the finest being in the La Latina, Hapsburg and Literary quarters). I ate in a variety of restaurants and was never disappointed. I will pass on the names because one man’s meat is literally another man’s poison, but you should have no difficulty finding a place where two can eat, with a bottle of wine, for around €40, or even less if you are prepared to go native. Typical Madrid dish? Cocido and not for those with a sparrow’s appetite: a stew with cabbage, carrots, potatoes, chorizo, bacon, pork and chickpeas. Very heavy and you may need to be assisted to your feet afterwards. Markets also provide a great opportunity for a decent bite, washed down with a few glasses of wine or beer. Two of the

best known are San Miguel and San Anton, the former being next to Plaza Mayor, Madrid’s set piece square which in itself offers numerous culinary options. These are not markets in the strict sense: they are covered, multipurpose spaces in beautifully restored old buildings – rather like Cork’s English Market -- where you can indeed do all your food shopping, but also relax before or afterwards at one of the many food and bar options; there’s something wonderfully relaxing and therapeutic sitting at a comfortable backed stall, sipping a glass of wine and devouring a variety of tapas, while all those around you seem to be rushed off their feet going about their messages. A traditional open air market which is a must visit if you are in Madrid for a Sunday is the Rastro, a bustling, hustling flea market, with hundreds of stalls, selling everything under the sun. A warning: it gets incredibly crowded, and like similar places all over the world, you have to watch your pockets and bags. Prepare yourself and go for it and take in the atmosphere, explore the many side streets and discover the countless, incredibly cheap local cafes Senior Times September 2014 Page 17

View from Floyen Mountain, Bergen The elaborate, rococo style Valencia town hall

and bars and mingle with the locals. You’ll remember your visit. Madrid card Very useful. It gives you access to more than 50 museums, guided visits, entertainment options and shopping and restaurant discounts. www.madridcard.com Shopping Madrid’s most fashion-conscious zone is found in Calle Serrano and the surrounding streets, most of which are pedestrianised. Here you will find all the celebrated brands as well as countless, much more interesting artisan shops and boutiques. Also very popular is Las Rozas Village outlet centre, 30 minutes from the city centre (there’s a free bus service – check with your hotel or the nearest tourist office). The centre has more than 100 shops with all the designer brands, with up to 60 per cent discounts offered all year round. www.lasrozasvillage.com/shoppingexpress If you want to get away from the crowds Page 18 Senior Times September 2014

and the heat, Madrid has some fine parks where you can relax, or even hire a boat. The most spectacular is El Retiro Park which was designed for the Spanish royal family in the early nineteenth century. There’s also Casa de Campo, one of the largest city parks in Europe; also worth mentioning is Capricho Park which dates from the 18th century and has recently been restored to its former splendour after decades of neglect. If you are considering visiting Madrid, remember that the weather is unbearably hot in July and August, when temperatures can rise to 35deg, or more. March, April, September and October are more sensibly times to go when temperatures average a very pleasant 20deg. And even in the winter months the temperatures average around 12deg.

On to Valencia, Spain’s third largest city..

So after a very pleasant few days in Madrid, it was time to time to get the high speed train (AVE) from Atocha Station for the hour and half journey to Valencia, often known as ‘Madrid’s beach’ as it’s the nearest seaport to the capital Valencia, Spain’s third largest after Madrid and Barcelona, and, like the Spanish capital offers all you would need and expect for a short break or longer stay. It is, as everyone will tell you, a city of contrasts – from the ultramodern City of Arts and Sciences -- a collection of staggeringly impressive futuristic buildings which house, among other attractions, Europe’s largest aquarium – to the historic heart that is Cuitat Vella (The Old Town). And, not many people may know this, it is the home of paella: unsurprisingly since the city is surrounded by a wide green belt of the most fertile land in Spain which produces, among endless varieties of fruit and vegetables, and most of the country’s rice. But back to Cuitat Vella. It is one of the most interesting areas in Valencia, hosting a mix of historic buildings, www.seniortimes.ie

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The stunning, futuristic City of Arts and Sciences

rubbing shoulders with exclusive designer shops and bohemian alleyways which cannot be found anywhere else in the city. The majority of museums in Valencia are also located here, and because you are undeniably in a tourist zone, there’s a wide choice of restaurants and bars and a great buzz at night In the same way, when going out for a drink, the selection is endless. If Spain stands out in Europe for its nightlife and festivities, Valencia stands out in Spain for the same reason. You will be surprised by the number of bars and pubs and, just as with the shops and restaurants, the variety is phenomenal: from traditional pubs to elegant cocktail bars.

Valencia ‘must’ visits are, of course the City of Arts and Sciences (the most visited cultural complex in Spain last year), the Fine Art Museum, the National Ceramics Museum and The Royal Marina – one of the city’s most important landmarks -- and Malvarros Beach: nearby are the fine beaches of El Cabanyal, Las Arenas and La Malvarrosa and the attractive Paseo Maritimo promenade. If you are into zoos, then you have to visit Bioparc; not everyone’s cup of tea but the size of the place and the variety of animals will impress you. (www.bioparcvalencia.es). Then, of course, there are plenty of architecturally and historically interesting churches and other buildings.

The majority of museums in Valencia are also found here: the IVAM (modern art), the MUVIM (Enlightenment and modernity), the Ceramic Museum, the former site of the University of Valencia, The Chirivella Soriano Foundation, the Prehistoric Museo, and so on. Another distinctive feature of the centre is the pedestrianised streets. It is possible to walk in the most commercial areas such as Calle Ribera or to wander to Ruzafa without having to worry about cars, but as we near the oldest part of the city there are a great deal more pedestrianised areas such as Plaza de la Virgen, Plaza Redonda, and a number of alleyways throughout Barrio del Carmen.

Fine Art Museum Located in a Baroque building recently renovated in its entirety, the Fine Arts Museum San Pio V is one of the most outstanding painting archives in Spain, renowned for its collections of primitive Valencian painters, although there are also works by El Greco, Velázquez, Murillo and Goya. The Fine Arts Museum also exhibits sculptures by Mariano Benlliure and some interesting archeological pieces.

Page 20 Senior Times September 2014

City of Arts and Sciences The oceanographic park, created as a great leisure, training and research centre, is structured into ten great

areas and is the work of Valencia’s own internationally celebrated architect Santiago Calatrava. The marine areas reflect the Mediterranean habitats, the polar oceans - the Arctic and the Antarctic, the islands, the tropical seas, the temperate seas and the Red Sea. The Aquarium at the City of the Arts and Sciences is made up of different buildings, each one identified with one of our planet's seas and oceans, and housing the exhibitions of the most typical environments and ecosystems. The spectacular circular entrance building with its 26 metre glass walls was designed by the architect Félix Candela. The ground floor houses information points, shops and other general services. From here we can access ten different areas. In the centre of the Park we find the Aquarium's flagship building, with its unique lily-shaped roof designed by Felix Candela. The lower floor houses a large aquarium that is visible on all sides. The upper floor of the building, like an island, is surrounded by a lake and acts as a hub that connects the different themed buildings. Prince Felipe Museum of Science This museum is part the City of Arts and Sciences complex. The building was designed by Santiago Calatrava and, it is www.seniortimes.ie

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Valencia boasts a number of fine beaches, including El Cabanyal, Las Arenas and La Malvarrosa In the Cuitat Vella (The Old Town), with the Cathedral in the background said, is supposed to represent the skeleton of a whale. The ground floor includes the "Science on Stage" and "TV Studio". On the first floor of the Museum the public can find interactive science exhibitions, where they can experiment with fun modules as "Exploratorium", "Furnishing the world, hand in hand with nature or "Children Space".

The National Ceramics Museum The National Ceramics Museum Gonzalez Marti is housed in a palace that dates from the 15th century and was refurbished in 1740 on rococo style with a magnificent alabaster entrance. Inside, you can find the 18th century carriages, the 19th century rooms, medieval ceramics and an important collection of tiles made in the Royal Ceramics Factory in Alcora.

Hippo gazing in the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest aquarium

The museum contains an important collection of ceramics, with prehistoric, Roman, Greek and Arab items. There are also plenty of contemporary works, including some by Picasso.

Getting there

Tourist card Getting round the city is very convenient with the Valencia Tourist Card. You can buy this in tourist offices, hotels and kiosks. There are three types of card: 24, 48 and 72 hours which will give you unlimited free travel in the city as well as attractive discounts in shops and restaurants.For further information visit turisvalencia.es

For more information on visiting Madrid, Valencia and other parts of Spain, contact: Spanish Tourist Board, I Westmoreland Street, Dublin 1. Tel: (01) 6350200. Email: dublin@tourspain.es

Page 22 Senior Times September 2014

Ryanair fly from Dublin to Valencia and Madrid. Aer Lingus fly from Dublin to Madrid. For information on Spanish trains, including the high speed (AVE) trains, visit:www.renfe.com

www.seniortimes.ie

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History

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El Dorado

Jim Rees recalls the 1795 Wicklow ‘gold rush’

If you stand on Arklow bridge and look upstream towards the southwest (imagine ten o’clock) you will see two moreor-less isolated hills; a round-topped one and just behind it, a little to the left, a more pointed one. The latter is Croghan (locally pronounced ‘Croaken’) Kinsella - County Wicklow’s El Dorado. Hollywood has seen to it that as soon as the cry ‘Gold!!’ reaches our ears we picture human stampedes across arid Californian deserts or resolute men with incredibly heavy back-packs scaling the snow-capped peaks of Alaska. But not all gold-rushes have been in faraway places where only the toughest dare venture. Gold can be - and has been - found here in Ireland, in some of our most beautiful landscapes, far removed from the extremes endured by the Walter Brennan and Gabby Hayes-type prospectors of the silver screen. Small quantities have been found in Antrim, Monaghan, Derry, Tyrone, Cork and Kilkenny, but the most famous region for native gold is County Wicklow where, in 1795, Ireland’s only gold rush was in full swing. Croghan Kinsella rises to about 605m (just under 2,000 ft) commanding the Wicklow-Wexford border, affording not only magnificent views of both counties, but for miles out into Irish Sea. Rain is drained from it by several small streams which wind their way down the lush wooded valley. One of these streams was once called the Aughatinavought, but for the last two hundred years it has been known to one-and-all as the Goldmines River. Page 24 Senior Times September 2014

A gold lunula from the early Bronze Age, circa. 2400 years bc, found near Blessington Tradition says that Croghan gold has been known for millennia and local pride points to ancient lunalea, fibulae, torcs, gold collars and other Celtic and pre-Celtic bling now housed in the National Museum as being fashioned from ‘Wickla gold’. Metallurgists aren’t quite so certain, but what do they know? The story goes that in about 1785 a schoolboy named John Byrne (as good as ‘anonymous’ in a region replete with John Byrnes) was fishing in the Aughatinavought when he found a ¼ ounce gold nugget which his father sold to a Dublin jeweller. It was believed to have been lost property rather than evidence of a mother lode waiting to be found and so caused little commotion. One man, however, didn’t dismiss the possibility so quickly. His name was Donoghue and is recorded as being a school master in the area, perhaps he had even been John Byrne’s teacher. www.seniortimes.ie

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The old mines at Avoca

Near the Goldmines River

From the time of the boy’s discovery, Donoghue was noticed to have developed a fondness for early morning walks across the mountain. Like all school teachers at the time (and today, if the profession is to be believed), Donoghue was far from affluent. Yet, every now and then, he’d go to Dublin and on his return he’d be dressed ‘far beyond his station’. He obviously didn’t share his secret with his wife, so one day she decided to follow him on one of his hikes. She tailed him across the heathered slopes, high above the surrounding fields and farms. When he reached the gushing stream, he furtively looked over his shoulder as if to make sure that no one was looking. From her hiding place behind a bush, she watched his next moves with growing anxiety. The good woman seems to have been either very innocent or very dim for when he took a pan and a rocker box from amid the heather and stepped into the middle of the stream, she thought he was … well, off his rocker. Much disturbed by her husband’s ‘madness’, she ran back to her neighbours and told them what she had seen. Her Page 26 Senior Times September 2014

neighbours were neither innocent nor dim and, instead of lamenting the school master’s ‘insanity’, they ran to their kitchens for pots and pans. Labourers left farms and townies left jobs to try their hand at prospecting. Who cared about winter food stores when there were fortunes waiting to be picked out of the streams on Croghan? The time had come, they believed, for the fabled gold to present itself. And they were right. Estimates of just how much of the precious metal was found over the following weeks vary widely. At the time, gold was selling at £3-15-0 an ounce and most sources agree that a total of £3,000-£10,000 was retrieved by the highly enthusiastic amateurs. In fact, so enthusiastic were they that profits were later gleaned from the spoil heaps they had discarded. In reality, no one knows. Let’s face it, prospectors were unlikely to tell all-and-sundry how well they were doing in their particular stretch of stream. Also, it seems that almost from the moment of Mrs Donoghue’s lapse of discretion, city slickers and other 18th century spivs were quick to take advantage of the rural prospectors’ ignorance, and many panners www.seniortimes.ie

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which wasn’t. Protocol forbade the farmer to ask for it back. Another version of this tale cites the pocketer as a lesser member of the aristocracy and the exchange took place at Ballycoog House at the foot of Croghan Kinsella. For a Wicklow girl to have a happy marriage, her wedding ring should be made of local gold. At one time, maybe it was a consideration, but now the general consensus seems to be that the quality and quantity of the metal are deemed more important than its origin.

A group of gold panners on an Avoca Tours ‘expedition’

gladly parted with their finds for a fraction of their true value. Everyone was happy with the situation, Everyone, that is, except the landlords and the Government. In October, under the twin pretexts of safety and the need for labourers to get back to harvesting crops, the Government sent in two companies of the Kildare militia. Amazingly, the prospectors offered no resistance, meekly folded up their makeshift tents and returned to the drudgery of their everyday lives. Plans were drawn up to prospect on an industrial scale. Three directors were brought in from outside to make sure that it was all handled with the expertise and commonsense that ordinary people were so obviously lacking in - just goes to show, there’s nothing new in a troika. Thousands of pounds were invested in equipment and manpower, expectations were fostered and would-be investors cajoled … but, as time would prove, all for little return. In May 1798, rebellion broke out in County Wexford and quickly spread northward. The gold mines were abandoned and much of the timber construction was demolished and removed to re-enforce the nearby town of Rathdrum in case of attack. When the rebellion was surpressed some months later, work resumed, but again with little success. Over the following 150 years, many licences were issued to companies and individuals, all convinced that they would be more successful than their predecessors in locating the mother lode. All ended up eating humble pie in the bank manager’s office. The best most of them did was recoup a fraction of their costs.

So much for the past. What about the present? There hasn’t been a major find in over 150 years, yet people still try their hand at panning. A local company, Avoca Tours (www.avocatours.com) run prospecting weekends. They supply the pans, the wellies and the craic. The gold? Well, that’s up to you and Croghan. The scenery alone is worth the journey to the Goldmines river. The long slow sweep from the top of Croghan to the coast, the elegant shoreline from north of Wicklow town to just north of Wexford town are no mean consolation should your pan refuse to co-operate in your quest for placers. Quite a bit of the mountain is licensed to mineral exploration companies who believe, along with the Geological Survey of Ireland, that despite the disappointments of the past, mineral deposits are lying around in larger quantities than anyone imagined. Small finds are still being made, and rumour (that constant source of hope in a world of dull reality) has it that the locals know more about where the gold’s to be found than they pretend - and who can blame them? Look what happened when Mrs Donoaghue failed to keep schtum! Will scientific exploration (if we are silly enough to condone it) succeed where primitive tools and enthusiasm failed? Is Croghan Kinsella’s mother lode ever going to make her long awaited appearance? If I knew, would I tell you? No, not Gabby Hayes in an Hollywood epic, but a prospector panning for gold in Avoca

So elusive has the origin of the gold nuggets in the streams proved that many people now question if there is a mother lode at all. Could the nuggets have been carried from further afield? One thing is certain, the nuggets and smaller pieces, called ‘placers’, do exist and continue to be found quite regularly. Folklore plays a major part in the story of Croghan gold. There is a tale told of George IV who, on a visit to Ireland in the 1820s, was staying at Powerscourt House. One of the many people he was introduced to was a local farmer who was eager to show him a 22 ounce nugget found at Croghan. George, the story goes, admired it, which was expected, and pocketed it, Page 28 Senior Times September 2014

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Health

Vaccination is the only protection Influenza (flu) is a highly infectious acute respiratory illness caused by the flu virus. Flu affects people of all ages, with outbreaks occurring almost every year. Flu symptoms come on suddenly with a fever, muscle aches, headache and fatigue. Most people recover from flu in 2-7 days. This is different from a cold which is a much less severe illness compared to flu. A cold usually starts gradually with a sore throat and a blocked or runny nose. Symptoms of a cold are generally mild compared to flu. In some instances, flu can be severe and can cause serious illness and death. Serious breathing complications can develop, including pneumonia and bronchitis, to which older people and those with certain chronic medical conditions are particularly susceptible. Some people may need hospital treatment and a number of people die from flu each winter. Flu is spread by coughing and sneezing. Anyone with flu can be infectious from 1 day before to 3-5 days after onset of symptoms. This means that you can pass on flu or the flu virus to somebody even before you know that you are sick. Each year the seasonal (annual) flu vaccine contains three common flu virus strains. The flu virus changes each year this is why a new flu vaccine has to be given each year. This year’s flu vaccine contains the Swine Flu strain which is likely to be one of the common strains causing flu this winter. The best way to prevent flu is to get the flu vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for all those 65 years of age and over

Pneumococcal vaccine If you are over 65 or have a long term medical condition you should also ask your doctor about the pneumococcal vaccine which protects against pneumonia, if you have not previously received it. You can get the flu vaccine at the same time as your pneumococcal vaccine. Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23) is recommended for those aged 65 years and older and those over 2 years with long term medical conditions. This vaccine protects against 23 types of pneumococcal disease including those most likely to cause severe disease. Pneumococcal disease is a bacterial infection. The bacteria that cause pneumococcal disease live in the nose and throat. A person who carries the bacteria can spread the disease by coughing, sneezing or even breathing. Pneumococcal disease can cause serious illness including Pneumonia, Meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain) or Septicaemia (blood poisoning). You only need to get pneumococcal vaccine ONCE after you reach 65. If you received your first dose of this vaccine before you reached 65 years of age you should receive a second dose at least 5 years after the first dose. If you are under 65 you may need a second dose if

those with long term medical conditions e.g. heart or lung disease

You have no spleen or your spleen is not working properly,

all frontline healthcare workers including carers

You have a medical condition causing a weakened immune system.

Vaccination should ideally be undertaken in late September or October each year. Flu vaccines have been used for more than 60 years worldwide and are very safe. Flu vaccine contains killed or inactivated viruses and therefore cannot cause flu. It does, however, take 10-14 days for the vaccine to start protecting you against flu. The vaccine and consultation are free to those within the recommended groups who have a ‘Medical Card’ or ‘GP Visit Card’. GPs charge a consultation fee for seasonal flu vaccine to those who do not have a ‘Medical Card’ or ‘GP Visit Card’. More information is available GP, Public Health Nurse or pharmacist. www.immunisation.ie provides details about flu vaccination, along with answers to any questions you may have about flu. Page 30 Senior Times September 2014

You cannot get pneumococcal disease from the vaccine as it does not contain live bacteria. You can get the flu vaccine at the same time as your pneumococcal vaccine. The vaccine and consultation are free to those within the recommended groups who have a ‘Medical Card’ or ‘GP Visit Card’. GPs charge a consultation fee for seasonal flu vaccine to those who do not have a ‘Medical Card’ or ‘GP Visit Card’. More information is available from your GP or Public Health Nurse. www.immunisation.ie provides details about flu vaccination, along with answers to any questions you may have. www.seniortimes.ie

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Travel

Best Western Lorna Hogg heads west and finds luxury at affordable prices and activities and interests to suit most people..

Connemara – the wild beauty and isolation of its mountains and lakes have won it world-wide acclaim. The area also has literary connections – Joyce Country is here, also Cong, where The Quiet Man was filmed, with many scenes on the Ashford Castle Estate. Some of Ireland’s most luxurious and famed hotels are situated in the area. So, you like your explorations in some luxury, with good value and on-site activities, then the recently re-branded The Lodge at Ashford Castle certainly fits the bill. Especially as the petfriendly hotel, known for its food and good deals, has just announced a `Young At Heart’ package.

leaves and cheddar, (both €17.00.) There is also fresh fish of the day. Don’t miss The Lodge’s Red Carnation speciality - honeycomb ice cream sundae, or try Bea’s cheesecake. Many challengers take on Death by Chocolate! Cullen’s at The Cottage, overlooking the lake and Castle, offers bistro style dishes. Plenty of seafood here, from mussels to organic sea trout and seafood pie – with imaginative salads. Meat eaters also have plenty of choice – rotisserie chicken, lamb and steak are all delicious, served in relaxed surroundings. Starters average under €10, with main courses from €18.50.

The Lodge, in a wooded area and overlooking Lake Corrib, was originally the home of the estate manager for Ashford Castle. Retaining its original layout, it has subtly updated its style, creating a relaxed and friendly but definitely luxurious feel in the public rooms, mostly in the old house. Now part of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, the food is excellent, with many of the favourite international dishes of its President and founder, Mrs. Bea Tollman. The luxurious and well appointed bedrooms are mostly based around a private courtyard. All offer different styles, varying from dual level suites complete with patio, to garden rooms and also some of which can be converted to into family accommodation.

Award winning Wilde’s at The Lodge Restaurant is attracting foodie attention, thanks to its creative executive chef, Jonathan Keane. Local produce, foraging and artisan suppliers are behind the unusual combinations. The €54 dinner menu has eight courses, so expect a delicious mix of textures, flavours and presentation. Foie gras trifle with rhubarb and passion fruit, plus rustic beef tartare with hen’s egg and woodsorrel are amongst the starters. Mains include delicious Mayo Atlantic Sea Spray lamb plate, which comes with sea spinach: and beef and Guinness, with blade, barley, nettle and rocket. Also, keep in mind their excellent Sunday lunch, good value at €28 – or create your own Drunch (lunch, brunch and dinner!) in the Quay Bar.

Food is fresh, with local ingredients, and enjoyed in a variety of styles and venues. Breakfast is cooked to order, and portions are generous, so lunch might be something light from the Quay Bar, which serves food during the day. Try the famed chowder (€7.50) or Kelly’s Black Pudding, (both €10). Substantial main courses include classic beer battered fish ‘n chips, or the Sean Thornton Burger, served with bap,

Country pursuits.. You’ll have to stop eating eventually, and one of The Lodge’s attractions is that guests can use the facilities of Ashford Castle Estate. Lough Corrig is famed for salmon and brown trout, and fly fishing lessons are around €55 per hour. Ghillie and boat hire are also available. Golf - check website for the latest prices. Go for a private horse rides along the shores of Lough Mask, or

Page 32 Senior Times September 2014

on the Estate - €45 per hour. Try archery - this ancient sport is fun, but tougher than it looks, requiring upper body strength and co-ordination. €60 (1-2 people). Clay shooting can also be arranged, from €50 per session. One of the Estate’s most famous and popular sports is falconry, and nothing matches the moment your hawk first swoops down onto your gauntleted arm. The Irish School of Falconry is based here, so start with a hawk walk, €50 for up to 4 people. Everyone in the group has a chance to handle the bird – and get those pictures! You can also book individual hawk walks (€70) in the woods, to learn more about handling your bird. Or leisurely sightseeing? Take in the beautiful vistas with a lake cruise, setting off from the Ashford Pier. Choose from a variety - including a 1hr. 15 minute History Cruise, or a two and half hour Island Cruise, taking in Inchagoill island, with its 5th century ruins. (€20.) Explore the wider area. It’s just 8 minutes by air over the Aran Islands, or take a scenic flight tour along the coastline down to Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands, and over Galway Bay. Galway departures. Connemara’s romantic and beautiful Kylemore Abbey is only 45 minutes away – take in pretty Letterfrack or Leenane en route, maybe with a sheepdog demonstration at Joyce Country Sheepdogs. Foodies can discover how Irish smoked salmon is produced, with a trip to The Smokehouse, Ballyconneely, with summer tours on Wednesdays at 3.pm. Stroll around the estate’s magnificent woods, gardens and shoreline, or view Danagher’s Cottage, used for filming in The Quiet Man - pick up a leaflet at the Lodge. Adventurous types can search for the landing spot of Alcock and Brown. Full details are available at www.thelodgeac.com. Tel. 094 954 5400. Check the website for the variety of regularly updated offers, both in and off-season. The recently launched `Young at Heart’ packages offer very good value - 2 nights B&B and one dinner, 2 tickets to Kylemore Abbey, 1 painting lesson with Ashford Castle’s Painter in Residence, Rick Lewis, 1 round of golf and a screening of The Quiet Man. €499 per room. Check out also the Staycation offers, plus midweek breaks and also the 1 night breaks ranging from Secret Sunday deals, to Laughter at the Lodge, with Tommy Tiernan. Further information www.aerarannislands.ie

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Travel www.corribcruises.com www.smokehouse.ie www.kylemoreabbeytourism.ie www.joycecountrysheepdogs.ie www.discoverireland.ie One family activity that suits all generations, is the Greenway, a 42 kms long cycleway/walking/running track on the site of an old railway line from Westport to Achill. Across the beautiful Partry Mountains, lies Westport, overlooking Clew Bay, and one of the prettiest towns in the West. A tourist haven and ideal spot for short breaks, this is also an area for outdoor adventure. It’s beside Croagh Patrick, there are biking and water based activities, and is ideal for multigenerational holidays. One of its top attractions is, of course, Westport House, the splendid Georgian mansion which blends popular and family entertainment with the well presented history of the home of the Earls of Altamont. Grandparents can enjoy the mansion and strolling in gardens. History buffs will enjoy the Exhibitions – the history of the Altamont family, Grace O’Malley and the Brownes, plus Howe Peter’s championing of slaves Small children will enjoy Grace O’Malley’s Castle, the Dungeon and the Railway while older ones can try the adventure activities, from zip wires ands zorbing to archery – and safety is paramount here. All ages will enjoy a lake trip in a swan pedalo, plus snacks in the old Kitchen, with its welcoming hearth fire. There are three price structures, House and Grounds; Adventure Park added: Adventure Activities (run by local suppliers) priced individually. Local attractions View from the water - Killary Cruises has `no seasickness guaranteed!’ boat trips, to enjoy Ireland’s only fjord. Clare Island Ferry has four daily sailings for the 15 minute trip to the Grace O’Malley Castle. Achill is approximately a 45 minute drive from Westport, and linked by bridge to the mainland. One family activity that suits all generations, is the Greenway, a 42 kms long cycleway/walking/running track on the site of an old railway line from Westport to Achill. The views are spectacular, passing mountains, coast and through towns such as Newport and Mulrany. Clew Bay Bikes is the only cycle hire on the Greenway, and has a shuttle service for full day bike. So you can cycle to an agreed spot enroute e.g. Mulrany and, come back in comfort. Remember to bring suitable clothes – and knee pads! Where to stay? Knockranny House Hotel Page 34 Senior Times September 2014

Spa Salveo- KnockrannyHouse

was 2012/13 winner of AA Hotel of the Year. Many hotels try to cater for all markets – family, mature, spa break, wedding and couples – Knockranny House succeeds. There is a wide range of rooms, including luxury suites. Consider upgrading if you want a really quiet one for chilling out – they really are peaceful. The hotel is also a mere wheel spoke’s turn from the Greenway, and bikes, so ideal for some cycling they offer Greenway Packages, 2 nights B&B 1 dinner and bike hire from €175.00pps Food is superb. Breakfast is cooked to order and the La Fougere Restaurant looks out over Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick. There is also a good room service menu and the Brehon Bar is open from 12.30pm – 21.00pm. Choices range from sandwiches to Chowder, sea food to salad and steaks, with full meals available. Head Chef Seamus Commons won Best Chef in Connaught at 2013 Food and Wine Awards, so expect something special for dinner. The €52 Table D’Hote menu includes dishes such as Ham Hock Terrine, or Roast Quail. Try Roast Breast of Duck with Pok Choi, or Pan Fried Sea Bass with Ratatouille. Puddings range from Pear and Almond Tart, to Peanut Butter Gateau. The A la Carte menu offers starters such as Clew Bay Scallops, (approx. €16) main courses with a wide range of fresh fish, and meat dishes, (€29.00 approx.) and puddings, including melt in the mouth Caramelised Granny Smith Apples, with Burnt Butter Ice Cream (€14.) Knockranny House Golden Year Packages (Sunday – Thursday, August – October) 2 night dinner, B&B €225 pps - €190pps. 3 nights dinner, B&B €305pps – €239pps 5 nights, 4 dinners and Sunday night B&B free, €370pps - €305pps Extras included – (Sept and October), free taxi from bus/train station, breakfast in bed, no charge, a complimentary bottle House Wine for 1 evening meal, tea and scones one afternoon, upgrade tpGrand Deluxe for €10, p p, per night. Special Spa Golden Treatment and rates. Excellent midweek, weekend, and Pamper Packages are also available.

Single room supplement applicable. The hotel’s Spa Salveo is well worth a visit, especially for stressed travellers. Complete with Vitality Pool, Thermal Suites and Relaxation Room, it offers especially good massages, with relaxing essential oils, ranging from Deep Tissue and Swedish, to Indian and Hot Stone. The highly regarded Kerstin Florian Products are used here, and there is a wide choice of both treatments and packages. Especially good value – the Salveo Mini Treats, both 20 and 40 minute – the back massages are popular. There are good packages available – e.g. Early Bird, 8.am –10am. Aside from beauty treatments, polishes and wraps, check the Ladies Day Specials – an hour of pampering, including massage and facial, followed by lunch at the Brehon Bar. Some residential packages also offer spa treatments. www.knockrannyhousehotel.ie Day trips Fancy some retail therapy? Take the short drive to Foxford Woollen Mills at Swinford, for gift items, cards and fashion, as well as a range of blankets, throws, rugs and sheets – and some good value sale items. There is also a very good café, serving lunches. Full day excursions - Ballintubber Abbey, dates from 1216 and is still in use. The Famine Museum, at Strokestown Park House gives a powerful picture of life in Ireland during that period, and also life upstairs and downstairs in a great house. The garden has been beautifully renovated, and there is also a café. Youngsters of all ages will enjoy Arigna Mines, where you can view an exhibition and also go underground on tours led by ex-miners and experience the cramped, cold and dripping wet working conditions in these `shallow’ mines – and their dangers.www.arignaminingexperience.ie More information www.discoverireland.ie www.westporthouse.ie www.strokestownpark.ie www.foxfordwoollenmills.com www.killaryfjord.com www.clareislandferry.com www.clewbaybikehire.ie www.seniortimes.ie

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Mental Health

‘Community care’ or independence? Dr Ivor Browne traces the history and ‘considerable success’ of the community based psychiatric concept which challenged the age-old practice of confining patients to institutions.

‘.. unless there is a real change in our methods of working, I see psychiatry moving into a blind alley..’ Dr Ivor Brown

The original pioneers of the community movement in psychiatry– Joshua Bierer, Maxwell Jones, T.P. Rees and particularly the work of Basaglia in Italy – saw this movement as primarily the democratisation of human relationships and the breaking down of the contradictions within society which created total institutions such as mental hospitals, orphanages, prisons, etc. They saw this movement as a struggle towards independence and self-esteem for those human beings we call patients to enhance their independence and bring about a real change in their quality of life, so that they might become full persons in society. For many this definition of community care has changed subtly over the years to become a debate about moving people from the large mental hospital to the community; thus the mental hospital has become identified with ‘institutionalisation’ and the ‘community’ with ‘normal life’. I was an active participant in this debate, from its beginnings in this country, after my return from the USA in 1962. When Dermot Walsh and myself produced the first plan of the development of a community-based psychiatric service in the Eastern region, we suggested a general framework of psychiatric districts for the entire health board area. The basic idea was to relate psychiatric personnel and services to population areas rather than, as in the past, to hospitals – close to where people lived, so that treatment would be provided as part of normal life, thus avoiding, as far as possible,institutionalisation. When I took up the post of Chief Psychiatrist of the Eastern Health Board (back then, the Dublin Health Authority) in 1966, although innovative developments were already underway in a number of countries – the USA, Britain, France and especially Italy – nowhere in the world was much more advanced than we were and information about these developments only became available much later. Hence we had to depend largely on our own ideas and resources to guide us. Political naivety When I put forward a formal plan along these lines in 1967, I was naïve enough to think that, because it was enthusiastically received and adopted at both local health board and departmental level, there was a real intention and commitment to implementing it. Had I then the political astuteness and wisdom of hindsight, I would have realised that, in Ireland, the adoption of a report does not mean any commitment of resources or real intent to implement its plans. I have often asked myself since, if I were beginning over again, what would I do differently? It is easy now, with the build-up of a whole infrastructure of community facilities and trained psychiatric personnel,

Page 36 Senior Times September 2014

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Mental Health

to think what one could do, but at that time there was literally nothing but the two mental hospitals, with over 4,000 inmates, with totally institutionalised staff as well as patients. (To give an idea of how bad things were, the first advertisement we put out for trainee psychiatrists attracted five applicants, of whom four were either alcoholics or drug addicts.) So, no matter how one approached the problem, it was not easy to make a start. Nevertheless, if I had realised then the true situation I think I would still have come up with the general framework but I would have approached the problem differently in at least two respects. I would initially only have tried to implement the plan in one pilot area, concentrating all the available resources there so as hopefully to demonstrate real success. Secondly, on the basis of this innovation, I would have gone about the selection of personnel, particularly those in a leadership role, much more slowly and carefully, so as to bring in people who really believed in a radically different community approach, concentrating them in the demonstration area, and then only widening the programme to include other areas when those who were converted to the new approach on the basis of the successful implementation in the demonstration district could be deployed in other areas. Perhaps if we had gone about it in this way, the change to a community-based service would not have taken so many years. But I wonder! Demise of large mental hospital However, enough of the past. Let us turn now to where we find ourselves at present. In the Eastern region, the demise of the large mental hospital is nearly complete and in the rest of the country things are moving in the same direction, in some areas more quickly than others. Page 38 Senior Times September 2014

At present, from over 2,000 patients in 1960, St Brendan’s has reduced to something over 300 – of whom half are over sixty-five years of age – and St Ita’s has become mainly an institution for the mentally handicapped, with only about a hundred active psychiatric patients. By the time I retire in 1994, St Brendan’s will have virtually ceased to exist (indeed, I expect to be one of the last patients to leave!). Most of the psychiatric service is now concentrated in the various psychiatric districts, in a wide range of community facilities, and this has been achieved mainly by transfer of personnel from the mental hospitals themselves, with relatively little additional input of resources from the Department of Health over the years. Also, in Dublin there is not, as in other cities such as London, New York or San Fransisco, a large problem of homelessness of ex-psychiatric patients. In recent years, the success of this transition has been largely due to the unstinting commitment and efforts of Michael Walsh since he became Programme Manager. So, from this point of view, the programme of reform to a communitybased psychiatric service, even if it took somewhat longer to implement than elsewhere, could be viewed as a considerable success. I feel, however, that we have to look below the surface and ask some critical questions. For instance, are the forms of practice now being undertaken close to the community very different from what went on in the traditional mental hospital? Is the hierarchical nature of human relations between staff and patients really different from what it was in the mental hospital? We still have large, overcrowded outpatient departments, with the psychiatrist giving only two or

three minutes to each patient. Undoubtedly there are changes, and changes in behaviour are still going on but, by and large, I am afraid to say that the answer to these questions is in the negative. Even more serious is the question: is there a hidden reservoir of new chronicity building up in the community? The government policy document ‘Planning for the Future’ said that we should try to get patients back to normal life in the community – to their families, but, if we look below the surface and ask what this actually means, for most of those who have a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia, this does not mean returning to their wife and children, for the large majority of such people are single and indeed have never reached full adulthood. So, we have the strange contradiction of people in their twenties, thirties or even forties returning to ageing parents and to a setting where they have always been treated (and have behaved) as small children, locked once again into a parent– child relationship that was a major factor in producing their psychiatric breakdown in the first place. This, in the over-simplified definitions of community care, is said to be a return to ‘normal’ community life. In raising this question, I am not simply returning to the old debate about sick families of schizophrenogenic parents. Undoubtedly some of these families are unhealthy or could be described as sick but that is not the issue. What I am speaking about is something much simpler: the question of whether it can be considered normal or healthy for any of us who have reached our adult years to return to live in our parental home when inevitably the relationship will tend to return to that of parent and child. For many of us it is difficult, and frustrating even, to return to the www.seniortimes.ie

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parental home for a few days at Christmas. This brings us to yet another question. Does institutionalisation only happen in large custodial mental hospitals or similar institutions? The answer to this is that it does not. The worst instances of institutionalisation I have come across have been persons incarcerated within their own families – young schizophrenics and others presenting to psychiatry for the first time. What the mental hospital usually does is simply offer a postgraduate training, completing the process that the family has initiated. Once we look at what institutionalisation actually is – i.e. a state of dependency, not to be in charge of one’s own life and destiny – we see that in this state everything is controlled by others and managed by them; it is, in essence, a state of ‘learned helplessness’. Once this is understood, it is obvious that it can happen anywhere, indeed particularly in the family where we all begin life as babies in a helpless state. It is when the natural drive to mature, to become independent and self-directing, is frustrated and the person grows on into adolescence and adult life, that the true picture of institutionalization becomes apparent. It follows from this that simply to remove mental hospitals and to send the inmates out into the community does not in itself deal with institutionalisation; only psychotherapeutic and educative work togive a person competence for living and bring them to a state of independence will achieve this. Institutionalisation, therefore, can continue ‘alive and well’ in a high-support hostel or day hospital or on returning a person to their home and family in the community, just as much as in a mental-hospital setting. Page 40 Senior Times September 2014

Critical issue So, this is the critical issue that underlies the whole question of new chronicity or what has been called the ‘new long-stay’ patient. The other half of this problem is that many such patients, because they never achieved real adult status in the first place, lack the necessary skills and competence and even personal identity which would enable them to live independently even if they were willing to separate and leave their parental home. ‘Planning for the Future’ suggested that we would need a bed complement in some form of 0.27 per 1000 for the new long-stay patients, but I feel that this may be a serious underestimate of the new chronicity which is building up in the community and which may only surface in the years to come when, for example, parents die or are no longer capable of looking after these adult/children who are in a state of arrested development in their homes. Thus, unless there is a real change in our methods of working, I see psychiatry moving into a blind alley, faced on the one hand with maintaining patients on long-term pharmacotherapy, with all that this implies in terms of increasing side-effects or, on the other, the likelihood of relapse in a person who is frustrated at being stuck at home with no possibility of an independent future. Looking at the situation in this way exposes another question which has interested me for some time. If we look at services for the mentally handicapped where there is no question about the genetic/medical/organic deficit which is present we find that because, as a rule, nothing much can be done about the underlying disability, these services have for many years now geared themselves up for a sophisticated educational and developmental approach with a whole

infrastructure of teachers, remedial work, physiotherapy, etc. Also, they have access to their clientele from early childhood onwards. If we compare this to the psychiatric service where the first breakdown usually emerges in late adolescence or early adulthood and where, therefore, if you were to have an effective remedial or rehabilitation programme (that is a broadly based restitutive educational input), you would need an even more sophisticated, highly geared, educational infrastructure to speed up the whole process of arrested development, we find patients engaged in folding garbage bags or other mindless activities. It is when we hold this yardstick up to our community psychiatric services that the picture looks considerably less satisfactory. It is here that I think we should pay tribute to the Mental Health Association of Ireland, whose twenty-fifth anniversary we are celebrating, for they have been almost alone in fostering an educational, rehabilitative and preventive approach. Finally, then, I feel it is important to state that we are not at the end of a revolution, of a period of reform, but rather that we are at the beginning of a new epoch in psychiatric development. We are standing on the threshold of a really radical revolution in the nature of psychiatric services. It is my fervent hope that we will have the courage to grasp this opportunity. This was based on a paper presented on the occasion of the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Mental Health Association of Ireland and is extracted from ‘The Writings of Ivor Browne. Steps along the road: the evolution of a slow learner’, published by Cork University Press’. (www.corkuniversitypress.com) www.seniortimes.ie

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Creative writing

A publisher who cares about books and writers

by Eileen Casey

Pauline Bewick’s arresting cover Lovers and Stars for Seven Ages

just signed a book deal for her third novel Miss Emily, with Penguin USA and Penguin Canada. Alan Hayes has no hesitation in wishing Ní Chonchuir the best of luck and even more recognition. Such an attitude is the hallmark of a publisher whose books are consistently of high literary quality and which are undeniably visually gorgeous. Galway based and re-launched in 2000, Arlen House has found its niche in both national and international publishing arenas. Worldwide distribution is via Syracuse University Press in a dynamic publishing partnership.

In a recent Irish Independent newspaper article about small publishing houses, Alan Hayes, summed up the spirit of his own independent press, Arlen House. Asked how he felt about authors who might be tempted to move on to bigger houses, he replied: “I’m not upset because I want to see writers thrive and I’m happy to help them along their path. I want to see them take flight.” As it happens, a writer who began her career with Arlen House, Nuala Ní Chonchuir, has Page 42 Senior Times September 2014

Arlen House has, historically, always been closely connected to women writers, although nowadays, not exclusively so; Hayes has broadened out the scope of the press. But in its earlier formations, its aim was to champion and pioneer women’s writing in Ireland. Two Irelands, Literary Feminisms North and South by Rebecca Pelan (Syracuse University Press) is a good place to start exploring the story of women’s writing and publishing in Ireland. Arlen’s original founder was Catherine Rose and it came into being in Galway during International Women’s Year, 1975. Early listings were heavily influenced by Eavan Boland. Arlen’s first publication was Rose’s The Female Experience: The Story of the Woman Movement in Ireland. In 1978 the press moved its headquarters to Dublin and became Arlen House: The Women’s Press. Margaret Mac Curtain, Janet Martin and Terry Prone joined its ranks. The press undertook a rebuilding of ‘lost’ women writers such as Kate www.seniortimes.ie

(2012) and Madame Sidney Gifford’s The Years Flew By (2000). He’s also published Women Emerging (NUIG 2005), Irish Women’s History (Irish Academic Press, 2004) and The Irish Women’s History Reader (Routledge, 2000) among others. The list of Arlen House authors is long and illustrious, including names such as Pauline Bewick, Maeve Binchy, Geraldine Mills, Nuala Ní Chonchúir, James Liddy, Liam O’Flaherty, Joan Newmann, Kate Newmann, Vincent Woods, Celia de Fréine and Martin Dyar. Important books on gender issues continue to be published, internationally-acclaimed books such as Ariadne’s Thread: Writing Women into Irish History by Margaret Mac Curtain (2008) and Mary Cullen’s Telling it Our Way, Essays in Gender History (2013). My own debut collection of short fiction Snow Shoes, appeared in 2012 from Arlen House (with original artwork from Offaly artist Emma Barone ). Galway based writers Colette Nic Aodha and James Marytn Joyce were launched with me. Joyce also compiled Noir by Noir West, an anthology of dark tales from thirty writers, again testimony to Alan Hayes’s commitment to getting writers published. This sentiment is echoed by fellow Galway writer Alan McMonagle when he says “In these difficult publishing times, Arlen House provides a rare opportunity for writers of short fiction.” McMonagle’s Psychotic Episodes is a collection of short stories described by Patrick McCabe as being “precise, tender and glitteringly compelling.” The title story in this collection was nominated for a Pushcart prize.

O’Brien, Norah Hoult, Janet McNeill among others. In 1978 also, Arlen House and sponsor Maxwell House (coffee) began a literary competition for new women writers, producing three ground-breaking anthologies and starting many writers’ careers as a result. In tandem with these anthologies, some of the most important critical work appeared, work which included Irish Women: Image and Achievement, edited by Eileán Ni Chuilleanáin (1985). Terry Prone’s The Scattering of Mrs Blake and Related Matters and Mary Rose Callaghan’s Mothers represent two of the finest publications by Arlen House around this time. Another direct result from Arlen was WEB (Women’s Education Bureau) founded in 1984 by Eavan Boland, who organised writing workshops for women and also designed courses on ‘Women into Writing,’ for FÁS. Regarding how Arlen House operates today, Hayes accepts no unsolicited manuscripts. Instead he commissions the books (over 150 to date) looking out for emerging writers, going to readings, keeping abreast of literary journals. He then contacts the writer and asks if there is a manuscript available. The books themselves are acknowledged gems in terms of original artwork covers, many of them in hardback. Hayes himself was a judge of the 2009 EU Prize for Literature; founder of the Dublin Book Festival and its former Artistic Director; former President of Publishing Ireland during its most successful period and a co-founder of Dublin’s bid for UNESCO City of Literature (which Dublin r eceived in 2010). His own books, published by Arlen House, include Hilda Tweedy and the Irish Housewives Association, Page 44 Senior Times September 2014

On a personal level, my second collection with Arlen House, A Fascination with Fabric, prose and memoir, is everything and more I could wish for. When I reflect on the list of Arlen House writers, I realise its historical significance in terms of women writers in particular and I feel fortunate to be counted among a long line of gifted writers, some of whom are profiled here. Writers, for example, like Martin Dyar (Patrick Kavanagh Award Winner, 2009). His debut poetry collection Maiden Names was shortlisted for the Pigott Poetry Prize and the Shine Strong Poetry Award, 2014. Poet Bernard O’Donoghue described Dyar’s work as being “A thrilling new development in Irish poetry.” Awards are no strangers to Arlen House writers. Tom Duddy who passed away in 2012, was the only Irish poet to make the shortlist for the Seamus Heaney Centre Prize for Poetry and the Aldeburgh Poetry Prize with his debut collection, The Hiding Place. Of Arlen House books, Dyar says that they “resonate with the personality of the press itself. The feminist origins abide in the trademark sense of the individual book as a means for the preservation and renewal of experience, a sense of voices tended and understood. This quality continues, it seems to me, by virtue of a special editorial talent and commitment, and a special sense of Ireland itself, along with a love of the book as a physical object. My own understanding of the significance and potential of poetry has been deepened through being exposed to the Arlen House ethos. It has granted me a new ideal of writing.” www.seniortimes.ie

Seven Ages (2005) is a sumptuous celebration of Pauline Bewick’s life and work. The book is arranged in chronological order, charting the artist’s journey from the age of two to seventy. Bewick is much loved and admired as an artist and is Ireland’s most successful woman artist. In 2006 she donated 600 artworks from her collection to the Irish State, and Arlen House catalogued this in Pauline Bewick’s Seven Ages (2006). Bewick has the highest respect for how Alan Hayes works as a publisher, citing his always “sympathetic response.” To mark her 80th birthday in 2015, Arlen House will publish a memoir from Bewick, an event to be looked forward to. Galway writer Geraldine Mills (Winner of the Hennessy New Writer of the Year Award, 2000) has published five books with Arlen House, two collections of poetry and three of short stories, the most recent being Hellkite. Geraldine’s reputation has grown steadily over the years, garnering substantial literary successes and solid affirmation from her peers. Her dedicated approach to the writing process itself has also been richly rewarded in works that will undoubtedly stand the test of time. “A writer puts his/her life into each story or poem, perfecting every phrase, every sentence. Arlen House does the same with its publications, ensuring that every aspect of the finished product is beautiful: the font, the typeface, the quality of the paper, the cover image. Anyone who picks up an Arlen book admires it immediately for its solid individuality, something that e-publishing can never compete with.” Artwork on her books is courtesy of artists such as Pauline Bewick, Joan Hogan, Charlotte Kelly and Gerald Davis. On the question of the economics of publishing, she says: “In an age where the Amazons of the industry are constantly trying to strip booksellers and publishers of any chance of a livelihood, small Indie publishers such as Arlen House defy all of that by continuing to believe in the power and beauty of the book. I have no doubt but my writing life would be very different if I hadn't had the opportunity to be published by Alan Hayes. Having international distribution with Syracuse University Press has opened up the world for me with my work being taught in many universities in the US including Connecticut, Boston and Seattle. Hellkite has even found its way to Turkey and this autumn some of my stories will be taught to college students there. Gratitude to him is a small word here.” Celia de Fréine is another such highly regarded writer, Page 46 Senior Times September 2014

equally at home writing in English or Irish. She lives in Dublin but is originally from Newtownards, County Down and still maintains her links to Northern Ireland. A Patrick Kavanagh Poetry Award winner, she is a poet, playwright, screenwriter and librettist. She has published seven books with Arlen House, including a ground-breaking bilingual 3 volume set of plays inspired by Brian Merriman’s The Midnight Court, and most recently cuir amach seo dom: riddle me this (2014). Donegal award winning poet Mary Turley-McGrath is the 2014 recipient of Trocaire’s Poetry Prize, in conjunction with Poetry Ireland. Her second book of poems, Forget the Lake, is published by Arlen House. For Turley-McGrath, “Being an Arlen House writer means belonging to a publishing house that is dynamic, independent, inclusive and professional, a publisher who brings Irish writing to the forefront of the Irish and international scene.” American writer Lisa C. Taylor’s most recent poetry collection, Necessary Silence was published by Arlen House in 2013. “I wouldn’t be a writer without readers,” she says, not remembering a time when she didn’t use writing “to make sense of the world.” Taylor has much praise for Arlen House, “Alan Hayes’s dedication to literature and authors is steadfast. Not only is he a great editor, his support of literature and Arlen House writers enables us to get our work out into the larger world. My tours in both Ireland and the United States have given me opportunities I would not have otherwise had. The collaborative collection (The Other Side of Longing, 2011) with Geraldine Mills allowed both of us to read widely in the United States as well as in Ireland. ” Órfhlaith Foyle has been an Arlen author since 2005; Revenge (fiction and poetry), Red Riding Hood’s Dilemma (poetry), Somewhere in Minnesota (short fiction). “Arlen House is an independent publishing house and while that is a challenge these days, Alan Hayes is utterly committed to publishing literature, poetry and art. Clemency Browne Dreams of Gin is my fourth book with Arlen House and I am proud of it and how it looks. After a writer writes what is their gut, all a writer wants is to be published, and Arlen House does that with great respect for the work, the book and the writer.” This solid appreciation for a level of care and attention to detail resulting consistently in beautiful books; is shared by many. Writers and readers alike.

For information regarding any of its books or authors, Arlen House can be contacted at arlenhouse@gmail.com www.seniortimes.ie

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What’s on in the Arts

Seasonal happenings abound.. Daphne Wright sculptures at the Kinsale Arts Festival

Maretta Dillon reports on the attractions in store over the next few months

There’s no denying it, the year has turned, autumn is here and with it a quickening of arts activity. Kinsale Arts Festival sets the pace (Sept 19-28) with a challenging and diverse programme that sees the Irish premiere of the Enda Walsh play How these desperate men talk, in a site specific production - an old metal factory against the Eylsian Quartet’s first Irish visit trailing the music from De Oscuro’s Macbeth alongside a new sculptural work by Daphne Wright, commissioned specially for the Charles Fort heritage site. It promises to be an exciting 10 days – kinsaleartsfestival.com One of the most unusual and unsung artistic initiatives is the annual Sculpture in Context exhibition at the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin in Dublin from September 19. This scores on all fronts – not only do you have the always beautiful gardens but then you turn a corner, cross a path or span a stream and a piece of outdoor sculpture pops up. Big, small, jokey, whimsical or serious this is one enjoyable experience. Give yourself a treat this year – sculptureincontext.com Culture Night started in Temple Bar but has now reached nationwide proportions. This year there is an increased focus on interactive and family orientated events so embrace the opportunity locally and for free – culturenight.ie That old perennial favourite, the Dublin Theatre Festival, surfaces from Sept 25 to Oct 12 with a dizzying choice of options. Hugo Hamilton returns to the festival with a new play The Mariner after his previous outing in 2012 with The Page 48 Senior Times September 2014

We Banjo 3 in Wexford Speckled People. It is 1916 and a sailor returns home injured from the First World War but reprising family relationships proves difficult. Corn Exchange Theatre are very much up to speed with their adaptation of Eimear McBride’s much praised novel, A Girl is a Half-formed Thing, while visiting German company Schaubühne offer up an earthy version of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. There are lots more to choose from – dublintheatrefestival.com The Spielgeltent – originally a Flemish invention of the 1920s – but now brought back to life as a travelling music and arts venue – pitches its tent in Wexford from October 22 to November 2. The programme bristles with interest featuring as it does: Jersey Boys, Brendan Grace, Jack L, Jimmy MacCarthy, Julie Feeney, We Banjo 3 and the Beautiful South’s Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott. For good measure, Wexford Opera Festival coincides date wise so that makes for one musical town. Check out all the action from wexfordspiegeltent.com and wexfordopera.com. www.seniortimes.ie

Timothy Spall as the painter JW Turner in Ken Loach’s new film

Finally, film director Mike Leigh teams up again with his regular collaborator Timothy Spall for an investigation into the life and times of the English painter JMW Turner in Mr. Turner. Spall is wonderful as he harrumphs and haws his way through as the socially awkward, emotionally careless but supremely talented artist who was not so much before his time as out of it. Immerse yourself in the big landscapes and skies from October 31.

Events around the Country September/October2014

Nick Dunning and Mark Lambert at The Abbey

ABBEY THEATRE, DUBLIN Heartbreak House GB Shaw’s timely and satirical look at British high society sliding towards disaster in the days before WW1. Until Sept 13. Booking: (01) 87 87 222 / abbeytheatre.ie

PORTLAOISE METHODIST CHURCH, PORTLAOISE, CO. LAOIS Séamus Begley, Catriona McKay and Chris Stout in a Celebration of the Music of the Northern Isles. Three traditional musicians at the top of their game come together in a musical mashup. Sept 16 (part of a nationwide tour presented by Music Network) Booking: (057) 866 3355 / dunamaise.ie

THE BUTLER GALLERY, KILKENNY, CO. KILKENNY Marilyn Lerner, Circle In The Square A first exhibition in Ireland of work by the very distinctive New York based painter Marilyn Lerner. Until October 5 Information: (056) 776 1106 / butlergallery.com

CULTURE NIGHT Dublin and regional areas including Cork, Galway and Limerick. Cultural organisations all over Ireland open their doors late for an evening of free events for all. September 19 Visit the official site - culturenight.ie

IRISH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA The orchestra visits Dublin, Limerick and Cork with a selection of music from Hayden to Wagner among others. Sept to December – various dates Information: irishchamberorchestra.com for venues and dates

KINSALE ARTS FESTIVAL, KINSALE, CO. CORK An annual celebration of international, national and local arts in the festive and atmospheric town of Kinsale. September 19 - 28 Booking: (021) 470 0877/ kinsaleartsfestival.com

SCULPTURE IN CONTEXT, NATIONAL BOTANIC GARDENS, GLASNEVIN, DUBLIN A free showcase of the work of Irish and international artists in a unique outdoor setting. Sept 14 to October 17 Information: sculptureincontext.com

DUBLIN THEATRE FESTIVAL, DUBLIN The 55th edition of this annual theatrical feast with productions from home and abroad – always surprising. September 25 – October 12 Booking: (01) 677 8899 / dublintheatrefestival.com

www.seniortimes.ie

Senior Times September 2014 Page 49

Gone Girl, David Fincher’s adaptation of the phenomenal best seller starring Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike opens nationwide on October 3.

DUBLIN FESTIVAL OF HISTORY A chance to discuss a variety of history topics with authors and historians of national and international renown. September 26- October 8 Information: (01) 674 4800/ entertainment.ie/DublinFestivalofHistory WESTPORT ARTS FESTIVAL, WESTPORT, CO. MAYO Music, theatre, comedy, exhibitions, workshops, literature, puppet shows, street performance – pick something. October 1- 5 Booking: westportartsfestival.com GONE GIRL / FILM NATIONWIDE Gone Girl - David Fincher’s adaptation of the phenomenal best seller starring Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike. Oct 3 nationwide. Visit the official site – findamazingamy.com OPEN HOUSE DUBLIN Ireland's biggest architecture festival where buildings of all types open their doors to allow visitors explore – for free. October 17- 19 Booking: (01) 425 4080 / architecturefoundation.ie WEXFORD SPIEGELTENT, THE QUAY, WEXFORD. Multi genre arts festival An eclectic programme features contemporary music, comedy, theatre, film, classical music and burlesque. October 22 to November 2 Booking: (053) 912 3764 / wexfordspiegeltent.com Page 50 Senior Times September 2014

Séamus Begley, Catriona McKay and Chris Stout in a Celebration of the Music of the Northern Isles tour with Music Network WEXFORD OPERA FESTIVAL, WEXFORD, CO. WEXFORD Giving new life to unjustly neglected operas and introducing artists and audiences to the forgotten masterpieces. October 22 - November 2 Information: (053) 912 2144 / wexfordopera.com GUINNESS CORK JAZZ FESTIVAL, CORK, CO. CORK One Sound Many Styles Imelda May, Michel Legrand, Carla Cook Quartet among others mix it up in various city centre venues this weekend. October 23 - 26 Information: 087 237 2826/ guinnessjazzfestival.com Finally, if you’d like your event to feature in our list of What’s On please email: events.country@gmail.com www.seniortimes.ie

www.seniortimes.ie

Senior Times September 2014 Page 51

Advice from Active Retirement Ireland Light Exercise, such as bowls, can help lower the risk of dementia

Brain Health – It’s in your hands! Active Retirement Ireland discusses how you can take control of your own brain health. It used to be the case that we all thought cognitive decline was an inevitable part of ageing, but now we know that’s not the case. Just look at artists like Pablo Picasso, who was still painting well into his 80s. Even closer to home, Louis Le Brocquy and Seamus Heaney continued to delight fans well past the so-called retirement age of 65. So what can you do to maintain your cognitive function and stay brain healthy? Active Retirement Ireland has been working with the Hello Brain project, a pan-European initiative based in Trinity College Dublin, to raise awareness of brain health among its members. Here are five simple steps you can take to help keep your brain in tip-top shape. Get physically active It seems it’s never too late to leave the couch and get active. A study of adults aged 60 to 75 placed half in a walking programme and the other half in a stretching and toning programme. The walkers – who were doing aerobic exercise, as opposed to anaerobic exercise – had brains that boasted significant improvement in executive skills, such as working memory, planning and scheduling, as well as speedier switching of executive tasks. It is thought that the brain gulps more oxygen during physical activity and that this may explain the improvements. Scientists are trying to find new drugs to support brain cell growth, but this is expected to only supplement and not replace activities we can do to help ourselves, let’s get up and get moving. Exercising three times per week was linked with a whopping 38% reduced risk of Page 52 Senior Times September 2014

developing dementia over a 6 year period, in another study of over 65s. If a little pill could do this, it would fly off the shelves. Brain Tip: A half an hour’s physical activity a day needn’t be a chore. Just be as active as you can, and don’t cause yourself any pain or discomfort. Stay socially engaged For many people, interacting with other people gives great sustenance in terms of brain health. We are a highly social species, but you don’t have to be a social butterfly to siphon off the rewards. Joining a book club, an Active Retirement group, a choir or a sports team are all ways of upping your game if you find it difficult to raise your share of social interaction. It turns out that social interaction is like a pungent fertiliser to your brain. It will stimulate your brain cells to grow new connections and strengthens those already formed. New cells also spring to life in key memory areas of the brain, something that will stand to you. Brain Tip: Just ten minutes of social interaction can greatly increase your brain performance. And it might surprise you to hear that this kind of simple social interaction with other people can deliver greater benefits than more widely practiced brain workouts like playing chess or solving difficult crossword puzzles. Challenge your brain Mental stimulation is the secret ingredient to staying young in www.seniortimes.ie

Chefs Gary O'Hanlon and Garrett Fitzgerald help Michael Maher of Newcastle RAMS with some healthy meal choices

Social connectedness is important, so grab a cuppa with some friends

mind. This involves challenging your brain, getting it to jump those mental hurdles it might shy away from. If, for example, you like to do the easy level of Sudoku or the simplex crossword, move over to the harder levels and get your brain to sweat a little. Stretching your brain in this way will improve your mental sharpness and it might fight off some of the negative effects that ageing has on your brain, helping you stay brain fit as you age. But the key to any new challenge is to make sure it is still a fun and enjoyable experience; so don’t push the dial too far into the red and get stressed. Your brain won’t thank you for that. Brain Tip: Don’t be stuck in a rut and always do the same things. If you take the easy road all the time, your brain will not bother saving itself for challenges that may lie ahead. Try and learn a new skill or hobby. Change your attitude: manage stress, think young, think positive Learning to keep stress on a short leash will benefit your physical health but also your brain fitness and overall memory performance. It is worth remembering that a certain amount of stress is a normal part of everyone’s day and in small doses it can be good for us, by motivating us to do better. Thankfully, there are ways for us to cope better when faced with strong stressors. Exercise can release endorphins, the body’s natural happy chemicals. It is also a refreshing way to release pent up energy that stress can bundle up. Often our minds can be www.seniortimes.ie

mobbed by worries and we can find it difficult to focus on the task at hand. By focusing on the present moment, concentrating on what is taking place right here, right now, we can shrug off such worries. It may sound simple, but it can take a bit of getting used to. Brain Tip: Do something that makes you laugh! It’s often said that laughter is the best medicine, and there’s an element of truth to it. So give yourself time and space to have a laugh – watch a funny movie, meet a friend who tells entertaining stories – anything that makes you chuckle. You’ll instantly feel great and you could be doing your brain a favour too. Adapt your lifestyle to protect your brain We don’t have to sit and hope our brain will stay healthy as we age. There are life-choices we can make that will help us strengthen our brains and remain vigorous. The brain also benefits from a healthy heart, so watch your diet and lifestyle choices. Brain Tip: Drinking to excess, smoking and eating poorly are all bad choices; but it’s never too late to make an adjustment to your lifestyle. A Mediterranean-style diet has been proven to help brain health, so load up on fruit, veg, beans and peas and complex carbohydrates, with moderate amounts of fish and the odd glass of red wine.

To find out more about getting active with Active Retirement Ireland, visit www.activeirl.ie or phone 01 8733836 Senior Times September 2014 Page 53

Fashion

Suiting

yourself

Mairead Robinson offers some tips for dressing to flatter your figure. Most women have ‘body issues’ – they often feel unsatisfied with their figure, and there is usually some part of their body that they really don’t like. What is quite interesting is that I find it is usually the younger women who have what most of us would consider perfect shapes, who have the most issues! Often when women get older, they become more comfortable in their own skin, and will dress to suit themselves rather than be a slave to fashion. The potential problem here is that they can end up with a dull wardrobe that does not change for years and they are not making the most of themselves while also keeping an eye on current trends. The key is to develop your own style – think of Jackie Kennedy whose style legacy was her ability to edit and cultivate her style attributes, assets and flaws alike. You start by accepting the things you can’t change, no matter how many inches, bulges or unwanted curves you imagine come between you and perfection. Confidence and knowing what suits you are what matters when it comes to style. What are you most often complimented on? Beautiful neck and shoulders, great cleavage, good legs, graceful arms etc.? This is what you should accentuate. Never hide these attributes, unless the weather prohibits it. The rules are simple – you have good legs; wear skirts. You have a small waist; wear belts. Find out what colours light up your face, bring out the colour of your eyes, know your list of colours, fabrics, shapes and lengths to look out for. Seek the advice of friends or even professionals, ‘Colour Me Beautiful’ experts will offer detailed advice to suit your specific colouring and shape. For those of us who have a fuller figure, there are many tips to flatter our curves. Heavy arms need long sleeves. If you want to camouflage your tummy, go for blouson-shape tops that settle low on your hip bones, but stick to ‘drapey’ fabrics that move, such as jersey or crepe. Wide, straight-legged trousers will camouflage heavy legs. Never choose pants with an elastic waist over a tailored pair. This is a very common mistake with women today, but remember that tailored pants will slim and control your shape – elastic pants will let it all hang out! Go for soft A-lines for tummy flatters, and draping is a great way to smooth out unwanted curves. A bias cut dress, very now, is a good tummy tamer. For women who are petite, remember that long skirts do nothing for short people. You should avoid wearing clothes at your natural waistline, drop-waist trousers, skirts and dresses look sharper. Slim pants cropped at the ankle will add Page 54 Senior Times September 2014

Teal and turquoise look good on almost everyone – big glasses hide those pesky wrinkles.

Cardigan sweater coat – easy to fit because knits stretch to fit your shape. From Boomerinas

valuable inches to your legs. Dresses, rather than separates will lengthen petites. Knee length coats – very “in” this winter – are dramatic and slimming for everyone, and shorter women can even go for thigh length. Avoid big shoulder pads, very high heels and kneehigh boots. Now assuming that you are happy with your signature style, you can update the classics with the new season’s trends – always keeping an eye out for what works for you. Even if your body looks great in something, the style has to match your face. As you age you need to learn to let go of frills and fussy lines that are instantly aging. Clean, simple lines look sharpest. You can carry bold patterns, glamorous metallics and strong colours – they can indeed look positively regal. We have so many great style icons for the mature lady – I think Hillary Clinton always looks fabulous, as does Helen Mirren, Jane Fonda and many others. And let us not forget our own style icon – Sabina Higgins. The important thing to remember is that fashion over 50 does not have to be dull and frumpy. It is not necessary to sacrifice style for comfort, and today more than ever before, women can look sexy and stunning in clothes that they are comfortable in and that suit their shape, colouring and above www.seniortimes.ie

Style from Chanel - 2014-08-19

all, personality. The secret is to develop your style and not to get caught in the generation trap. If you have a trusted friend, bring them shopping with you when you go to try on clothes. A good friend will tell you the truth, whereas a shop assistance will want to make a sale!

Graphic Floral Dress from Monsoon.

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As the cooler days and nights are drawing in, many women breathe a sigh of relief that they can cover up parts of their body that they were not comfortable exposing during the hot summer days. But you should learn to love the warm weather, winter sun holidays help! Layers are always good, loose clothing in good fabrics are always complimentary and comfortable. Basically it is about developing your own look, being comfortable in your skin, wearing your clothes with confidence and above all, to smile with style! Senior Times September 2014 Page 55

WineWorld

Expert Camilo Viano monitors the latest vintage from Chilcas

Chile still a hot favourite with Irish wine lovers Mairead Robinson continues to be a big fan of wines from south Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest producer

Mairead Robinson suggests some modern beauty accessories that you can fit in your handbag. I visited the wine regions of Chile in 2005 and again in 2010 and have followed the progress of this viticultural paradise with great interest. When wines from Chile first appeared on our shelves here in Ireland we took to them immediately appreciating their great value, and they soon began to give Australia a run for its money with Irish wine buyers.. Even as wine sales in Ireland declined by around 15% between 2008 and 2011, Chilean wines managed to hold their own. Chile has in fact, I believe, overdelivered at a very keen price point and the result of this is the amount of Chilean wine that we are continuing to purchase in Ireland.

are coupled with perfect soils â&#x20AC;&#x201C; sands and silts on the flat land and gravel and stony near rivers with decomposed granites in the hills.

Chile has many natural advantages for wine-growing as well as tremendous potential for diversity and quality. With the Andes in the east leading down to the valleys of the Central Valley together with the climate during the growing season being dry with cool nights and warm days, great conditions

Forward thinking wine companies such as De Martino are carrying out tests in regions all over the country to find pockets of excellence for wine-growing. Because it is long and thin, Chile has a range of climates to suit different grape varieties, and one of the real success stories is the quality Pinot Noir that is

Page 56 Senior Times September 2014

These conditions are perfect for red wines â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ripe tannins, deep colour, and high levels of antioxidants and flavonols. In the cooler regions by the coast and in the north, white wine growing is thriving. Chilean wine production has excelled in recent years and the heavy investment from both within and outside of Chile has resulted in a thriving wine industry. Their wines show a real sense of place together with innovative wine making techniques, grape varieties and styles. appearing on our shelves, with Cono Sur being one of the top producers. This is a particularly successful brand in Ireland and they have also received international acclaim when named the 16th most admired wine brand worldwide, the second most admired wine brand in South America, an amazing achievement www.seniortimes.ie

Win a stay at a County Clare hideaway – Ballinalacken Castle

Hotel Reviews Ireland in association with Senior Times are delighted to offer two lucky readers the opportunity to win an overnight stay with breakfast and a fabulous dinner at the family-run Ballinalacken Castle.

www.ballinalackencastle.com 065-7074025 A stay at this luxury boutique country house hotel is a recipe for total relaxation. Dinner at the award-winning restaurant is a real treat, the bedrooms are classically luxurious, the views are spectacular and the surroundings are totally unspoilt. Yet within a short drive you can visit all the stunning attractions that Co. Clare has to offer. These include the world-famous Cliffs of Moher and The Burren, along with the popular villages of Lisdoonvarna and Doolin to experience the best in Irish traditional music. Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel is a period style property and each of the twelve guestrooms is individually designed to accommodate the stunning surrounding views. Hosts Declan and Cecilia O’Callaghan are now the third generation of O’Callaghans to operate the hotel which was originally purchased by Declan’s grandfather, Daniel O’Callaghan in 1938. To win this prize answer the following question: Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel has how many period bedrooms? Post entries to:Hotel Reviews Ireland Competition, C/O Cecilia O’Callaghan, Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel, Doolin, Co Clare. Or email to:info@ballinalackencastle.com The first correct entry drawn is the winner. Deadline for receipt of entries is 28th September 2014

One of the Chilcas vineyards in the shadows of The Andes

for a wine brand that is only 21 years old. There remain many hill sites in Chile which can be explored for further Pinot Noir production. The great advantage that Chile has in the world of wine is that it has never been afflicted by the root-sucking aphid known as parts of the world. In order to protect against this disease, there were strict quarantine laws in place for years, these have been eased now as the market demands a wide variety of vines. Now we can enjoy all the noble varieties including great Merlot and Chardonnay blends that are uniquely Chilean. Chilcas, from the Maule Valley, part of the Via Wines group, are excellent wines that are selling here in Ireland at just €11.99 These are wines with a real sense of place and crafted with passion to the highest standards. I am a particular fan of the Chilcas Estate Merlot with its deep cherry-red colour. It is fruit driven with toasted oak and vanilla notes. This is a great food wine, perfect with the Sunday roast, particularly if you are having chicken or pork. From the range of white wines from Chilcas, the Chardonnay is most noteworthy, with grapes hand-picked from selected vineyards. I think Chilean Chardonnay is much more successful and interesting than Chilean Sauvignon Blanc – which there seems to be a huge amount of in the market. In fact in my most recent trip to Chile, I found that every winery we visited offered us a Sauvignon Blanc which was so similar to every other one we tasted, that they began to appear quite bland. But the Chardonnay, when it appeared, was always more interesting. Chilcas Estate Chardonnay is a great example of the beautiful Chilean chardonnay available. These Chilcas wines are available at select off-licences nationwide. Of course Chile has become renowned for Carmenere, which for many years was thought to be the Merlot vine. Carmenere is such an elegant grape, that it is often found in blends to add softness to a wine, and occasionally you will find a 100% Carmenere that is stunning. Casa Silva Carmenere is one such stunner. While some poor quality Carmenere was being produced in Chile some years ago, this has now been generally sorted out, and quality is replacing quantity, I am delighted to say. Much as I love Australian wines, and have also visited many vineyards ‘down under’ and met many great winemakers there, I have a certain soft spot for wines from Chile. I so admire the Australians who have to battle with irrigation to grow grapes in desert like terrain, while the folks in Chile have the perfect environment right on their doorstep. Much of the grape growing in Chile is organic, things are done by hand, natural methods of pest control – like the geese in Cono Sur – are a common sight, the land is unspoilt and the labour is cheap. And they are working very hard at it, bringing in foreign expertise where it is needed. I was astonished by the growth in investment in the industry on my last visit, as compared to my first. Methods are very modern, research and development is on-going, and while Chile is still not gaining recognition for its ‘Icon’ wines, I think that if they continue to grow at this pace, it is not just Australia who need look over their shoulder – maybe Europe should too! Page 58 Senior Times September 2014

Oveja Negra are the ‘black sheep’ from Chile, wines with character and personality, intriguing wines that challenge you to be yourself!’ Available at all good independent wine off licences.

Travel

1066 and all that.. Many of the traces of history since the Battle of Hastings between the Norman Duke William and the Anglo-Saxon King Harold are still etched across the contemporary town in that you can see how the medieval streetscapes have survived: the 'Old Town' buildings huddle up to each other in a warren of inviting arched lane ways and streets that include houses, taverns and shops that seem to be sympathetic to the Sussex topography as well as its environment.

Hastings in Sussex on England’s south coast is usually associated with the famous battle in 1066 but it has a lot to offer for a weekend or longer break, as Aine O'Connor discovered.

Hastings Castle

The higgledy-piggledy buildings, with steeply terraced gardens rising up behind some, are sitting cheek by jowl in a jumble that shouldn't sit happily beside each other but does. Someone's home for instance literally overlooks a pub's outdoor seating area, or lots of long, narrow, pedestrian alleyways lead from one street to another.

For a city-dweller who's pre-disposed to holding her nose in narrow alleyways these Hastings passageways were somewhere you’d happily nip through while holding a toddler by the hand or herding a bunch of small kids around for a couple of days. This hilly village that nestles on the southern coast of England is perhaps a less obvious destination than the more familiar Brighton but it’s got many of Brighton’s charms and is as easy to get to. The Hastings promenade – the grand sweep along the seafront that lets you stroll between the stony beach and dine, shop or take in a play at the White Rock theatre – mightn’t be as exotic as Brighton’s but its charms include a line of elegant buildings between the sea and the hills. I travelled in early May for the Jack in the Green festival, which is a gathering of mummers and folk musicians and was amazed at how everyone seemed to get into the spirit of it with great costumes. There were very saucy fair maidens and some puckish handsome pranksters. The Page 60 Senior Times September 2014

costumes for women ranged from satin or velvet dresses with Maid Marion jewellery to accompany the floral tiaras with long woollen capes; there were some saucy buxom wenches too in full décolletage, a bustle on their lower backs above a long train with a short pelmet at the front; to menswear that's a dandy's excuse to fop it up for a day like a 1980s-style New Romantic. Holidaymakers had travelled not just from the rest of the UK but further afield to join in the festival that seems to accommodate part-time fancy dress fans, as well as ostensibly clashing crowds, to celebrate the first Bank Holiday weekend of the summer. That Monday attracts a big biking crowd too, which added to the excitement between the various types of bike from scooters to huge throaty monsters, as well as vintage cars and caravanners. There were hordes of them from those sporting Moto GP gear in professional, racing leathers, to punters who looked like Hell’s Angels where the women could be in anything from black leather on their own bikes to chicks doing an Imelda May impression. There were lots of rockabilly motifs in the bikers’ fashions that I only got to truly appreciate after the bank

holiday when the town eased back to its normal summertime holidaymakers. While they wouldn’t have found the same delight as I did in the vintage fashion and furniture stores to be found branching off from the High Street, early May was a wonderful time of the year to see the town. Flowers, food, drink and fashionable style loom large in every new place I go to so Hastings was a revelation to me that it rated so highly on all those scales. Pretty cottage gardens froth up in front of houses, surround churches, peep out from obscured corners of common ground and offer fragrant or colourful backdrops to the terraced gardens of the pubs and restaurants. The pubs offer a range of hostelry from old fashioned pubs that close early to smart café/bars tricked out in contemporary décor and most of them stock local brews from micro-breweries. My favourite was called the Blonde, as it was a lager with just enough hints of grapefruit to be summery. If you're checking out a bar/grill called Porters, which has also had good reviews on Trip Advisor as a restaurant though we didn't eat there, make sure you pre-book on a Wednesday night. That's when jazz singer extraordinaire Lianne Carroll performs and as those of you who caught her last year in Dolans of Limerick know,

she's a diva that's not to be missed. Her fab versions of Steely Dan numbers were the excuse we gave ourselves for being the last out of the pub that night. The best meal we had was in Isabella's on George Street, a Turkish restaurant that served up savoury and sweet meze in a lovely romantic atmosphere. The owner Ali was the star of the show as he seemed to click with the party we made up that evening and joined us for an after-dinner chat while the rest of the diners were finishing their meals (yep! that does mean we were the die-hard stragglers there too). Local food we tried included herby sausages for breakfast from the Land of Green Ginger, spicy sausages from a

kiosk on the seafront and pizza from the Simply Italian restaurant that had imported Italian sausage for use on its menu. The best chip shop for us was the Blue Dolphin. To walk off your holiday calories, the hearty among you will enjoy a shunt up the hills via shank's mare, but there are two funicular railways that can take you from the seafront to the top of the hills on either side of the Old Town. From the top of the west hill you'll see deceptively bigger houses than they appear when you're strolling through them,

as they snugly line the valley between two hills. There's a public green up here that gives wonderful views of the sea that's ideal for a picnic, napping or sunbathing if you don't like pebbly beaches, and is where you'll find the entrance to the smugglers caves that have been set up as an alternative folk museum that combines the smugglers’ history of Hastings with a sensory 'scary' experience that's well worth the £8 adult admission fee it cost. To get from the seafront promenade to the west hill costs £2.50 per adult. Its sister train from sea-level to the top of the hill on the east side takes you from the black fishing buildings (and a great fish wholesaler for those of you self-catering your holiday) up to a nature reserve.

Fishing boats on the beach, with one of the town’s two funicular railways in the background.

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Senior Times JSeptember 2014 Page 61

Scenes from the Battle of Hastings on the Bayeux Tapestry

The town centre - great shops, restaurants and bars and quirky establishments in the characterful side lanes.

The distinctive sheds for storing fishing nets on the beach

Hastings is also home to a fantastic mixture of artisans and artists so you'll have at least five full days' worth of treasure hunting through galleries and jewellery outlets in George Street, or bric a brac shops selling everything from vintage ornaments to antique tools such as pretty ceramic thimbles to really fine planes for shaving wood for musical instruments. Antiques’ hunting could offer you either a small memento that’s inexpensive and homely, or an interesting basis for a restoration project. For instance there were some authentic relics of religious iconography like crosses and candelabras, or furniture frames to be refurbished, alongside rare versions of very familiar objects that could be an ideal gift for the musician in your life (a four-valve melodeon from the GDR had one of our traditional Irish accordion players in paroxysms). The old High Street is akin to Dublin’s Francis Street for density of antique and curio shops, but it’s also home to some pretty exciting vintage-style fashion. We stayed in the Jenny Lind Inn on the High Street as it’s in the heart of the Old Town and a stone’s throw from everything you need to see. This small, reasonably priced hotel is perfect for anyone who wants to ditch the car for a few days and stroll home from Hastings’ myriad attractions.

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Getting There No doubt you'll have made your plans for your main holiday this year, whether it's with family or friends, but if you're hot off the mark on cheap flights and can fly into Gatwick, this pretty seaside town is an ideal destination for a long weekend or a few midweek days abroad. It's a quick train journey down to the coast at just over an hour and a half. Depending on the lead in time and the luck you have in co-ordinating cheap flights with discounted rail tickets, you may find cheaper than those I found, and as Hastings is a beautifully compact resort that doesn't need to be driven around once you're close enough to the seafront, the plane and train combination could be enough to get you and your company to the fresh, salty air. There are so many options in discounted transport costs, your preferred option could still be 'fly-drive'. When you've been gathering your 'air miles' promotional goodies then maybe your flights include a discount on car hire, the drive from Gatwick could be the last time you need the car again until you're flying home. As it's not as challenging to drive there as on the Continent (with the signs in English and you're at least still physically on the same side of the road as you'd be here), Hastings could offer you anything from a romantic break for you and your partner, to

respite care of the grandkids for your own grown-up children. Maybe you're a long-haul veteran and have been motoring it from Ireland to the south of France on camping trips for as long as your family can remember, so Hastings from Pembroke is a mere halfday's work for the driver. Factor in about a six-hour drive from the ferry to Sussex, or more depending on how long your meal-breaks or pit-stops need to be and it could be a very happy half-way point between your home and a camping holiday in north-eastern France rather than its Atlantic coast. France via the Eurotunnel at Folkestone can cost as little as €30 each way for cars, to connect you to Calais, and by booking your ticket on its website you'll find a facility to prebook Sanef toll tags, which saves you queuing at the toll stations on French motorways. Once there the town is vibrant enough to be a self-sufficient holiday destination for at least three to four days regardless of differing age-groups you need to entertain. If the deciding factor for you between plane and train, or ferry and Ferrari depends on who's coming with you rather than the purpose of your journey, it still makes for a lovely break away from home. Hastings Tourist Information Centre. Tel: 0044 1424 451111 www.visit1066country.com

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Cosmetics and Beauty

It’s in the bag.. Mairead Robinson suggests some modern beauty accessories that you can fit in your handbag. Recently more and more beauty products have been appearing in the market that are specifically designed for ease of use by the consumer. They are non-invasive, generally very portable and affordable and the result is that you do not have to regularly spend hours in a hair or beauty salon. I have been looking at the most impressive of these and found that while they might not replace the salon altogether, they can certainly stretch out the amount of time between visits. So, starting with your hair. Most of us go to the hairdressers to have our hair coloured. This is always more effective, successful and pleasant than using the home-kits. However it is also a lot more expensive. Wouldn’t it be great to have a “magic wand” that would cover those grey roots in a jiffy and would last for up to three subsequent shampoos after each time you used it? Our friends at www.seniortimes.ie

Marks & Spencer have recently introduced a range of beauty products which includes the Josh Wood Blending Wands. These attractive and effective wands blend your hair colour and hide grey by disguising regrowth between salon visits. The result is natural looking, glossy and healthy hair and you can reapply every couple of weeks as you wish. Available in four shades: Light

Blonde; Dark Blonde; Light Brown and Dark Brown; they are priced at €17.50 each. A great investment, I found it very easy to use with very satisfactory results. Another effective little handbag tool to keep those grey roots at bay, is Hair Mascara which you can purchase through www.simplynatural.ie and select Senior Times September 2014 Page 63

Grey Disappear root touch up mascara comes in a range of shades and retails at €16.95

You should also check out the slim silver teeth whitening pens which fit into your bag like a normal pen, and are easy to use with great results.

outlets nationwide. It is the size of a regular mascara wand, so fits really easily into the handbag. Grey Disappear root touch up mascara comes in a range of shades and retails at €16.95 Moving on from hair, a very good handbag product that I came across recently is the Slim Sonic, a very stylish battery operated toothbrush which has been brought to the market by Lifes2good Health & Beauty, who also gave us the Micro Pedi and hair products Viviscal. The Slim Sonic comes in a range of trendy colours and patterns in a sleek, compact and discreet design which fits into the handbag like a mascara. With 22,000 brush strokes per minute, it is highly effective, perfect for use after a meal in a restaurant, and ideal to pop into your bag when you are away overnight. I took mine on holiday abroad, and it is so much easier to travel with than my usual electric toothbrush which has to come with charger stand and adapter. A super product, available in leading pharmacies nationwide, it is priced from €19.95. You should also check out the slim silver teeth whitening pens which fit into your bag like a normal pen, and are easy to use with great results.

The balancer (pink), The Revitaliser (purple) for dull skin and my favourite, The Illuminator which is great for softly reflecting light and illuminating the face. It is recommended to apply the sticks straight from the pen, after primer, and gently blend in with the fingertips. You can then apply your foundation. The exception to this is the illuminator, which is applied last. Max Factor primer has an SPF of 20 and gives a flawless long-lasting finish for your make-up so that it will last all day. The primer is priced at €13.99 and the correction sticks are priced at €10.99 and are available nationwide.

Another great innovation in the world of portable beauty products comes from Max Factor in the form of their new Colour Harmony Correction CC Sticks. These little lipstick-like sticks are designed to neutralise unwanted tones in the skin. They blend away the appearance of redness, dullness, under-eye circles and dark spots. There is more to a perfect complexion than concealer, which unfortunately often only serves to highlight the problem area! The range includes The Reducer (green) for people with general redness in their skin, The Brightener (yellow) for under-eye circles,

Now we all get depressed when we look in the mirror and see all those lines and wrinkles where once a fresh smiling face looked back at us. We often wonder why wrinkles often make us look sad? The reality is that there are two types of wrinkles – the ‘laughter lines’ or ‘crow’s feet’ are associated with a smiling face and have positive connotations. However, there are vertical wrinkles which form more deeply under the contraction of certain facial muscles and under the effect of gravity. These are the ones that make us look sad – frown lines between the eyes, wrinkles around the mouth and

Page 64 Senior Times September 2014

those dreaded folds on either side of the nose. Even when we are resting or asleep we can look stressed or angry. Now the usual cure for these are injections of fillers, but if like me you don’t like the thought of them, there are some great new products that can be applied topically which do the job. Vichy have introduced their Liftactive advance Filler with pure Retinol + LR2412 which reduces the look of deep www.seniortimes.ie

Vichy have introduced their Liftactive advance Filler with pure Retinol + LR2412 which reduces the look of deep and vertical lines and gives you a happier look.

and vertical lines and gives you a happier look. Available nationwide, this moisturising cream will give you a positive and youthful look. Suitable even for sensitive skin, and priced at €35, you can say ‘goodbye’ to your grumpy face forever! Lloyds Pharmacy have also introduced a cream that reduces the visibility of wrinkles and improves skin hydration and firmness. Face D 3 – Luronics is an instant effect cream serum.

Easy to blend and quick to absorb, this cream should be applied to clean skin daily daily or targeted areas where immediate effects are required. It is superlight and can be worn under make up. Available exclusively at Lloyds pharmacy, it is priced at €29.99. So now ladies, so many reasons to smile this autumn! Contact me if you have any queries on mairead.seniorbeauty@gmail.com

Luronics is an instant effect cream serum, available exclusively at Lloyds pharmacy, it is priced at €29.99

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Senior Times September 2014 Page 65

Two short stories by William T Ahern

Maggie and Matt Maggie and Matt met every day on the same park bench and viewed the modern youth with the cynicism of old age. “ Look at him, Matt ” cried Maggie pointing to a youth sitting opposite them, “ just look at the sight of him. His trousers are so tight it must be a relief to take them off ” “ I have often wondered, ” said Matt, “ if youngsters got feelings, what would happen ” “ Feelings ? ” said Maggie “ Yes, feelings ” said Matt “ You know, excitement, a good looking bird as they are called now-a-days. Lord, I suppose that they would burst their zips and would have to buy a skirt. Not that he would be troubled because he seems to be tailless. ” “ Like a Manx cat ” said Maggie with a laugh. “ Look at his hair, though, ” said Matt “ how does he get it to stand up like that ? ” “ I should not wonder but it is the pressure from his trousers, ” said Maggie. “ What’s that noise ? ” said Maggie “ a circus ? ”

beautiful ‘ Where is Love. Where….. is Love ?” Matt sang. “ For God’s sake, shut up, ” said Maggie “ do you want to frighten the pigeons ” Silence descended between them. Each was wrapped in their own thoughts. The noise from the Ghetto Blaster filled the park, even blotting out the bird song. Matt began to doze but was awakened by a sharp dig to the ribs from Maggie. Sitting up and following her gaze he saw a park warden approaching the youths. They were requested to turn down the radio and to make less noise. They did both for a short time and eyed the old couple with icy stares. When this did not have the effect of driving them from the park they lost interest in them. Maggie could not keep quite and indicating the group with a nod of her head said “ What happens when he catches cold, he cannot touch his noise with all those rings stuck into it. ” “ I suppose, ” said Matt “ that he could put a chain through them and flush it out ” “ Look at your ones ears ” said Maggie “ with all those rings, on a windy day you would have to tie her down to something or else she would take off. ”

“ No, just a few of his friends ” said Matt “ Lord, listen to that music coming from that radio ”

“ Do you know of any bed for the night ” said Matt pulling his well-worn coat closer to him.

“ They are called a Ghetto Blaster now ” said Maggie “ and I cannot consider that music, noise maybe, but music, no way ”

“ She did not throw you out again, ” said Maggie “ the usual problem I suppose ”

“ You are right of course Maggie, ” said Matt “ Lord be with the times when music had melody and nice words. I was passing by the back of the Opera House yesterday morning and heard someone rehearsing that song from Oliver. It was Page 66 Senior Times September 2014

“ Yes to both questions ” said Matt “ I got the pension and met a couple of the others and we went for a drink. The same old story. I suppose that I had better make tracks for the hostel and put my name down for a bed. It was crowded last night. I will see you tomorrow, Maggie. Good Luck until then”. www.seniortimes.ie

Donald and Me

Donald is my big brother, my carer and my hero.

We live together, play together and work together and life within its limits is good. We have a thriving burglary business and are just ahead of the law. I am fifteen, I am strong, I am light weight and have the ability to climb anything. It is my job to get into the building, gather the items available and deliver them to Donald. He looks at them and decides on the best place to fence them. In the past we did this blind and things took a long time to do but these days it is easy to get the ground plans of buildings on the Internet. This is a great help to our profession. My favourite story about our adventures is about a very valuable necklace which I took from a country house. Donald fenced it to a well-known business but a few weeks later the place was raided by a gang of smash and grab artists. In their rush to get away one of them dropped a bag of stuff. Among the items recovered was the necklace and it was returned to its owner. It was from the newspaper stories of the time that we learnt its true value. The figure contained so many zeros that it would make a guy sick reading them. Our last job was a third floor flat and to get to it I had climbed up the drain pipe and get into it by an opened window. I was just getting my bearings when there was a movement in the bed and a night light was turned on, this gave just enough light for a person to move around safely. I slid behind a large armchair which stood in the corner and awaited developments. The lady sat on the edge of bed, rooted around with her feet until she found her slippers and stood up, she passed within feet of me and entered the bathroom, and she lifted her clothes and sat on the toilet. When she finished her business she went into the kitchen boiled the kettle and made a cup of coffee and drank it. I was in a bad way while these things were going on, my right leg was twisted under me and I was afraid to move. www.seniortimes.ie

The lady put away the cup and the rest of items used, returned to bed and soon heavy berthing indicated that she had gone to sleep. I could now leave my hiding and get on with my job. The bedside table yielded two nice rings and a gold chain, the dressing table a few other items and safe in the sitting room yielded a couple of more valuable brooches, a few other less valuable items and €500. Before I go on a word about the safe combination, it is usually the date of birth or the phone number of the resident or can be these numbers in reverse. These are readily available on personal documents and it takes a couple of minutes to work them out. A completely original number would make my life harder and ensure your property was safer. On my way down the stairs I did the other flats, one which had children’s toys in the hallway and so needed extra caution, a friend fell over a dolls pram, woke up the whole family and now is inside for six years. I got some good items and was pleased with my nights work. I left myself out of the apartment block, joined up with Donald and we headed for home. I was completely knackered put Donald insisted that I stayed up while he examined the booty, I fell asleep sitting in the chair and he carried me to bed. I do not remember anything else until he shook me awake later that morning. He told me it time to get up and go to school. Donald believes in education. He says that he does not want me to end up like himself going in and out of young offender institutions and jail. I suppose he is right but it is my ambition to be just like him. William T Ahern writes: ‘I am an OAP, an amputee who walks with two artificial limbs and two walking sticks, a polio survivor and have Asperger’s Syndrome which is a type of autism. All these make me what I am and even though they have placed a few limitations on me I have lived a full and satisfying life. I have been a disability activist at local and national level for over forty years and feel that the current budget cut-backs suffered by the disabled and all those on low incomes have set back policies towards us by several years. These are particularly annoying when we read in the papers of those on high incomes receiving top-up pensions of thousands of euros. ‘I live an independent life in my own apartment built on to my sisters bungalow which I call my three roomed palace, I have everything I need within those four walls. I am fully independent in all aspects of personal care, a lady comes in once a month to clean the place and my laundry is done by my sister. ‘In October 2012 I completed an honours arts degree in UCC, I studied philosophy and sociology, it was hard work, a 24/7 lifestyle, but I enjoyed it’.

Senior Times September 2014 Page 67

Northern Notes By Debbie Orme

Take the TV tour!

When visitors come to NI, most local residents do the usual 'tourist' trip up to the North Coast. While Portrush, the Giant's Causeway etc are great tourist attractions, there's now a new kid on the block when it comes to one-day tours in the North! Game of Thrones has been a phenomenal success of TV and, thanks to McComb's Travel, you can now visit the main filming locations featured in the series. The coach tours, which are limited to 30 passengers per day, take place on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, have an added attraction in that the company's drivers worked on all four seasons of the fantastic series, providing transport to and from all filming locations, so they're able to provide knowledge and added points of interest! After checking in at Belfast, the tour travels along a large portion of the Cause-

A successful business that’s continuing to grow in County Down

able to produce the machinery required at a fraction of the cost. The dream had become a reality and Mash Direct was established.Initially, the company concentrated on three products: mashed potato, champ and carrot and parsnip: products which are as close to natural as it is possible to get, and which take only minutes to go from the ground to packaging.

Located in County Down, close to the shores of Strangford Lough, is a familyowned business which has, over the past ten years, become the market leader in vegetable accompaniments. The last five or six years have witnessed one of the worst recessions the UK has experienced since the big crash of the 1980s. Across the UK, companies have had to look to new markets and to diversify, but one Comber company has bucked the trend and diversified to such an extent that it is successful beyond its wildest dreams! Eleven years ago, fifth-generation farmer Martin Hamilton and his wife Tracy were considering ways in which they could either diversify, or use their 230 acres of land. Having already considered alternative options, such as converting the land into a golf course, the couple turned their attention to the potential margins which they had noticed in prepared vegetables rather than fresh produce, and decided to add value to their potatoes by producing potato products. In doing so, the couple would be able to retain control of their land and their business. From the outset, the couple knew that they wanted to steam cook their products to retain the maximum amount of nutrition

Page 68 Senior Times September 2014

way Coastal Route to the small coastal town of Ballycastle, which, as Game of Thrones' fans will know, is the native home of Lady Catelyn Stark and Varys! From there, it's on to Cushendun, where you can visit the Cave which featured Melisandre giving birth to the shadow baby! The next stop is the 'wow' location of The Kings Road, which is locally known as The Dark Hedges. After lunch, it's on to Larrybane, where several major scenes were filmed, and it's at Larrybane where Renly swears to Lady Stark that he will avenge Ned's death, but meets his end at the hands of the shadow baby conjured up in those caves you visited in Cushendun. The last stop of the day is at Giant's Causeway. Let's face it, a trip to the North Coast wouldn't be complete without a visit to this famous landmark, would it? So, the next time you've visitors from far and wide...

in their products so, initially, they worked with Loughry College in Antrim to trial the machinery that would allow them to steam cook the potatoes. Once they had perfected the method, however, they realised that the outlay required for the machinery would make the business unviable.Fortunately for the couple, it was at this point that fate intervened. At a dinner party in 2003, whilst savouring a glass of the finest Irish whiskey, Martin Hamilton talked to his close friend Tony Reid about his plans for setting up a production facility on the farm and about the potentially prohibitive cost of the machinery that was required. Martin, a ‘son of the soil’, saw the opportunity to return to older, heritage varieties of vegetables grown exclusively for flavour rather than for appearance, and so the two men developed a small plant on the farm to create a traditional cooking style. After twelve months of hard work and innovative engineering, combined with a characteristic ‘can do’ attitude, Tony was

To get the company off the ground, Martin and Tracy began by consumer testing the products at St George’s Market in Belfast. The products were well received and so the couple hired a van, driving around independent stores to raise product awareness before approaching Spar (Henderson’s), which had a particular interest in supplying Northern Irish food. Within a short period of time, Mash Direct products were available in every small town and village in the North, and once Dunnes in Dublin began supplying the products, everything else more or less fell into place. Ten years later, the company’s product range has gradually expanded, as has the land. The couple’s original 230 acres have now expanded to a massive 1200, and the company has extended its initial range of three products to a wide-ranging selection of more than 30 products. All of the vegetables are steam cooked to perfection and are suitable for both microwave and oven heating. The range also ticks the health boxes since it is free from artificial flavourings, preservatives and colourings. As a result, the company now delivers across the UK and Ireland and exports to New York and Dubai. Thanks to this growth, Martin, Tracy and their two sons, Lance and Jack, have grown Mash Direct into a successful household brand.

www.seniortimes.ie

Arlene Foster

In recognition of a true entrepreneur The Webb Tower

Great news for NI food industry! There was more good news for the NI food and drink industry this week, with the announcement by Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Arlene Foster that Northern Ireland food and drink companies have broken all previous records in this year’s UK Great Taste Awards! Ninety-nine Northern Ireland companies have secured an all-time record of 264 awards, including eleven in the highest three-stars category, in the UK’s most important taste competition organised annually by the UK Guild of Fine Food. 'This is an outstanding set of results in what is regarded as the most significant and trend setting food and drink event in the British Isles, and many parts of Europe,' said Ms Foster. 'It demonstrates the quality, outstanding taste and creativity of producers, mostly smaller businesses and artisan enterprises here. The spread of award winners to virtually every part of Northern Ireland recognises the strength of our food industry, and in particular the meat sector, where eleven of the 18 products listed received three-stars. 'Our companies have achieved more three-star golds this year than ever before, an overall total of 349 gold stars, and more than any other region of the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. This highlights that Northern Ireland has become the UK’s main food and drink production centre, a source of products that offer outstanding taste, wholesomeness and safety. I would like to congratulate all of those who have been recognised for their hard work and dedication.” Hannan Meats in Moira, winner of the Supreme Champion Award in 2012, gained an unprecedented seven three-star golds, the highest ranking in the awards, for its beef and bacon that’s dry-aged in the world’s biggest Himalayan Salt Chamber. The 18 products to rate three-stars go forward to the final stage of the awards on 8 September in London, when the Supreme Champion Award will be announced along with other category winners in the Ambient Foods, Farmshop and Deli Signature Dish and the Northern Ireland Regional Fork.

www.seniortimes.ie

Situated in the heart of County Antrim is the small town of Randalstown. Despite its compact nature, the town has been recognised as one of the fastest growing towns in Europe, let alone the United Kingdom. Old Bleach Linen Company was, until recent years, the reason why many travelled to work and live in the town. The company was originally formed by C J Webb, but it was his son, William Hubert Webb, who developed Old Bleach to become a market leader. William Hubert, who was better known as WH, joined the company as a seventeen year old and, through the years, he became deeply involved in the linen industry, establishing the Irish Linen Guild in addition to his work for Old Bleach. WH also took an active interest in political life. A member of the Ulster Unionist Council and President of the County Antrim Association, he was a long-time Orangeman, becoming first treasurer of the Grand Lodge of Antrim and subsequently District Master of Randalstown district LOL No 22. When WH died in July 1952, it was decided to create some form of tribute to the work of a man who had given so much of his time to his community and to the Orange Order. The tribute was to take the form of a 31-foot high tower,

with clocks on three of its four sides, and the clock was dedicated on Wedneday 10th September 1952 to the memory of the late WH Webb to mark his work in developing Old Bleach Linen Company and expanding the social and sporting activities of the town. At the dedication ceremony on 10th September 1952, Major J Maynard Sinclair, the Minister of Finance and Deputy Prime Minister of Northern Ireland, said that the clock tower had been erected to perpetuate the memory of one who gave so much of his time and thought, and indeed what otherwise might have been his leisure, to the welfare of the people of Randalstown and, in particular, to those employees in the great firm his father helped to develop. Over time, the tower deteriorated substantially since its dedication, with the clock faces being removed during this period, so, in 2011, the local community group, Neillsbrook Community Development Group decided to restore the tower to its former glory. The restoration work began during the winter of 2011 and the project was completed in February of the following year. Last year's dedication ceremony was attended by Lady Anne Cunningham, the oldest surviving relative of W H Webb.

Council plants flower-bed to raise awareness of Parkinson’s Ards Borough Council has created a special flower-bed in Donaghadee to raise awareness of the Parkinson’s condition in Northern Ireland. 'The flowerbed is a way for the Council to raise awareness of Parkinson’s,' said Mayor of Ards, Councillor Philip Smith. 'One in 500 people in the UK is affected by the condition; at present there is a local support group meets the third Monday of every month in the Townhall Ards Centre, Conway Square in Newtownards.' Visit www.parkinsons.org.uk for more information on local support groups.

Senior Times September 2014 Page 69

Genealogy

Join us at Back To Our Past

With nearly 80 million and growing, Findmypast is home to world's largest online collection of Irish family history records and is the best place to trace your heritage. We work in partnership with some Ireland's biggest archives, including the National Archives of Ireland, to bring you an incredible collection of records. On Findmypast you can: • Trace the key events in your ancestors lives with 21 million Irish birth, marriage and death records 1845-1958 • Get back even further with free nineteenth century census records for Ireland • Discover where your family lived with exclusive and essential Irish land records like Griffith’s Valuation and the Landed Estates Court Rentals • Explore your ancestors’ murky pasts with detailed Irish prison and court records • Uncover the military heroes in your family tree with extensive records from World War 1 and beyond • Learn what life was like for your ancestors in millions of historical Irish newspaper articles • Follow your emigrant ancestors around the world with passenger lists and travel records • Delve into the most comprehensive collection of Irish directories and social history records anywhere online You can also build your family tree for free on Findmypast, keeping all your relatives details safe and handy in one place. Why not upload images, add notes and use our Kinship Calculator to further enhance your tree? The records on Findmypast are not just from Ireland. If your ancestors moved around the world you can track them in our records from the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and beyond. Highlights from our global records include • The largest collection of UK parish records anywhere online, dating back to 1538 • Complete US Census records 1790-1940 • Millions of family history resources from Australia and New Zealand to trace your ancestors who went down under Come and meet the Findmypast team at Back To Our Past in Dublin’s RDS this October. We’re going to be bigger and better than ever before this year. As always, we’ll be on hand showing you how to get the most out of findmypast.ie and answering all your family history questions. We also have some great talks and speakers planned over the weekend which are a must for anyone tracing their Irish family history. Not only that, but we promise some exclusive event offers which will really make it worth your while visiting. We hope to see you there! Bring your family history to life now on www.findmypast.ie Page 70 Senior Times September 2014

Award-winning history/heritage company

Eneclann Ltd. is an award winning history and heritage company based in Dublin, Ireland. Founded in 1998, the Trinity College Campus Company has become the largest historical and genealogical research and consultancy service in Ireland, with tens of thousands of clients worldwide, Eneclann pride themselves on providing a high quality family history research service to clients in Ireland and overseas. Eneclann is known for having traced President Barack Obama’s Irish ancestry to the late 17th century and the company’s research has featured in programmes such as Who Do You Think You Are? as well as the successful T.V. series Faces of America (2010), and Finding Your Roots (2012). The company has also traced the Irish roots of celebrities such as Meryl Streep, Tom Cruise, George Clooney, Jeremy Irons, Steve Colbert, and Graham Norton. Director of Research, Fiona Fitzsimons, leads the research team. The team has undertaken family history research for over 10,000 individual clients since Eneclann’s inception in 1998, as well as having expertise in Irish genealogy the Eneclann research team also has a wealth of specialist knowledge in relation to all aspects of Irish history. Eneclann has developed significant expertise in digital technology and has brought millions of new genealogical records online. In 2010 Eneclann formed a joint venture with findmypast, the online genealogy service owned by British company DC Thomson Family History. To date they have released over 75 million unique Irish family history records. Eneclann’s clients include the National Museum of Ireland, the National Library of Ireland, the National Archives of Ireland, Trinity College Library, the Military Archives, the OPW, the National College of Art & Design, the GAA archives, Dublin City Library & Archives, Cork City & County Archives, Clare County Archives, and the RDS.

Get started with your Family history research today and visit them at www.eneclann.ie Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Eneclann?ref=hl Twitter: https://twitter.com/Eneclann/ Address: Eneclann, 5 White Friars, Aungier Street, Dublin 2, Ireland Phone: 01 6710338 Email: info@eneclann.ie www.seniortimes.ie

Hobbies and pastimes

Why not publish your own book? In the last few years, the self-publishing market has grown significantly in Ireland, no longer is it seen as a vanity exercise. It is genuine and normal way to get your work out there, or your story. It might be a local history book, a collection of short stories, memoirs of your life or even a fundraiser for a local charity. Either way, it is a quick way of getting your work out there into the public. We at selfpublishbooks.ie try to keep the process as simple as possible. Once you have written your book and you are happy with it, you can email it to us. We can go over your options and see what is best for you and of course, we can price it. Our prices are transparent and on our website, but we know that every book is unique, with different sizes and colour pages, so we treat each one differently. Then you decide what services you require; proofreading, formatting, cover design, what size you want the book to be, then how many copies you want. We normally suggest a small amount at first, 100 – 200 copies, so that you can see if your book is successful. If it is, you can easily come back to us for a reprint. The less financial risk for you the better. Some people want a short run of hardback books, to compliment their softcover books, for a launch or as a gift to friends and family, this can be arranged. We do all our printing and binding in-house at our factory in Carrigtohill which employs a staff of 20 during peak times. No matter what you might think about ebooks, or what you know about them, they are here to stay and they are a good way to sell your book overseas and help to pay for your books. There might be an interest in your book in America, UK or Australia. The cost to post a book to there can eat into your profits. With our ebook service, we can create an ebook for you and submit it to over 1,000 online retailers and 40,000 libraries. After that, it is up to you to make sure that interested people overseas can find the book. Alternatively, we can organise a consultation with an expert on this. It is possible for you to have an ebook only and not a print version of the book.

An Aladdin’s Cave for knitters The Constant Knitter is a wonderfully personal knit shop located on Francis Street, Dublin 8. Owner Rosemary Murphy is enthusiastic about knitting, texture and designalways ready to offer assistance in choosing patterns and suitable yarns. Talk about temptation, this shop carries it all- a gorgeous selection of yarns, fibres, knitting needles and needle kits, books and intriguing ideas. Take a class in knitting, crochet, creative embroidery, sewing, quilting, felt making and don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled on The Constant Knitter web page for one-off workshops offered by guest artisans. Classes/workshops are held upstairs in a comfortable setting where you can always get assistance in any part of your project. Well worth a look when you are in the neighbourhood. Drop by the shop regularly to check out its creative window displays, usually done by friends of the owner. The Constant Knitter is in the heart of Dublin’s Antiques Quarter of Dublin on Francis Street. Plenty of yarns to choose from, including some handyded, wide selection of knitting needles, crochet hooks and other knitting, crochet, sewing, embroidery, felting supplies and friendly help. The owner is very helpful and will take the time to go over the specialty yarns and patterns – ready to help you find something that suits you. She will also leave you alone if you wish – allowing you to browse at your hearts’ content.

The most important person during the whole process is you. We can give you the tools for a good book, we can also organise marketing tools such as bookmarks, posters, a press release written by a journalist, but the sales are up to you. Just like with mainstream publishing, it doesn’t matter how good a book is, but if nobody knows about it, it won’t sell. You must market it, especially in your local area or community. The local media are always interested in local books by local people.

The Constant Knitter at 88 Francis Street, Dublin 8. Contact at info@theconstantknitter.ie Tel: 087 996 7197

There is a lot of work involved throughout the process and it can be frustrating, but there is nothing like being handed a copy of your book, in our factory or opening a box in your home to see your hard work, dedication and your story, there in print. Due to the high quality of our production, you can be rest assured that the book will sit on shelves for generations to come.

Store Opening Hours: Tuesday Wednesday, Thursday Friday, Saturday Sunday Monday

Page 72 Senior Times September 2014

Home to beautiful yarns from all over the world, The Constant Knitter is inspired by decadent textures and bright and sumptuous colours. She has a true love for yarn!

10.30 to 6.00 pm 10.30 to 8.30 pm 10.30 to 6.00 pm 2.00 to 5.00 pm Closed unless by prior appointment

www.seniortimes.ie

Back To Our Past has been a huge success from Day One, attracting all the leading players in the genealogy and family/social history disciplines as well as over 20,000 visitors from Ireland, the UK and much further afield. The event is unique in providing visitors with a unique insight into Irish family history..all under one roof at the same time!

Back To Our Past

The Irish Genealogy, Family/Social History Experience

Period photographs courtesy of The National Archives of Ireland

www.backtoourpast.com

Presentations, demonstrations, workshops

In just three years Back To Our Past has established itself as one of the major events in the genealogy, family/social history calendar, attracting huge visitor numbers and many of the leading companies and bodies from Ireland, the UK and beyond. Back To Our Past offers a unique opportunity to engage with both those with ancestral links to Ireland as well as natives seeking information on forebearers who emigrated to the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, South America and countless other regions of the world. The event also features an extensive programme of presentations on a myriad of related areas. While it is a dedicated event in its own right, it has the major advantage of being part of one of Ireland’s most successful and established public events, The Over 50s Show, the lifestyle show for Ireland’s seniors, and can therefore ‘piggy back’ on the event’s promotion to maximise attendance.

Industries Hall, Royal Dublin Society, Dublin Friday 17th, Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th October 2014 For details on exhibiting or attending: Contact (01) 4969028 or email info@slp.ie

History

My dad, the great escaper Jim Collier recounts the courageous exploits of his father, who escaped from a number of POW camps during WW1

The letter from King George V

James (Jim) Collier was born on the 18th of March 1888 in the townland of Cooksgrove, situated halfway between Ardcath and Duleek in County Meath. In 1905 Jim aged 17 joined the British Army with his brother Joseph in Mosney. He joined the Prince of Wales Regiment of the South Lancashire Fusiliers. He was sent to India where he served for 7 years returning to England in 1912 where he went on Army Reserve. Two years later in1914 at the age of 26 he was called up to serve in the army. He re-joined the South Lancashire Regiment and being a trained soldier was sent to Belgium and the front line to fight in WW1. On 24th of August 1914 he was captured at the Battle of Mons and taken to Germany. The British Army kept prisoner of war records primarily relating to officers, other ranks being of little consequence at war time. I spent a day at the Army Records office in Kew, London and got very little information. I was subsequently lucky to obtain his POW records through the International Committee of the Red Cross in 2010 which were obtained from the German authorities. These records show that after being captured he was first detained in Limberg POW camp until 1915 and he was transferred from there to Munster POW camp on 29th of January 1915. He escaped from Munster in 1917 and when recaptured was sent back to Limberg for punishment. Incidentally Limberg was one of the better POW camps with good conditions and facilities and it was here that Roger Casement was trying to convince Irish soldiers to join his brigade and to fight against the British after the war; only 55 out of more than 2000 joined him. Jim next appears in Lazarett Limberg (a hospital camp) in February 1917 and a week later he was transferred to Lager Page 74 Senior Times September 2014

The brass cigarette box

Giessen POW camp. Jim did not talk a lot about what subsequently happened, which was typical of most of those returning from captivity. He did however occasionally tell me about being a prisoner of war in Germany, and escaping. When he was recaptured he was severely beaten with bayonets and had the scars on his back for life. He was then sent to a prisoner of war hospital. In 1918 he escaped again, with a colleague; they travelled by night and sheltered during daylight. His friend went berserk one night and Jim subdued him and left him outside what appeared to be a presbytery. He knocked on the door and hid nearby, an elderly couple came out and took his friend in. Jim continued on his way and about a week later crossed the border into Switzerland. He was very surprised to discover that peace had been declared while he was escaping. His subsequent comments on his captivity related mainly to the terrible cruelty he experienced and observed meted out by his captors. Unlike many of the ex-prisoners he did not appear to suffer from the trauma and got on with his life, perhaps this was due to his previous service in India. Jim re-joined the British Army in 1939, at the start of WW11. But that is another story. I am lucky to have inherited the following memorabilia from my dad, who died in Croom, Co Limerick in 1964 aged 76. The brass cigarette box sent to POW’s by the Princess Royal at Christmas 1914, together with the card which was enclosed, which were sent to prisoners courtesy of the Red Cross. I also have the letter from the King to POW’s on their repatriation to the UK in1918, and his shoulder insignia. I hope to have all these copied for the National Gallery collection: It is good that the men who fought and died on the allies side in both WW1 and WW11, have finally been acknowledged for their contribution. www.seniortimes.ie

Golf

How low can you go? Dermot Gilleece recalls some notable sub-60 rounds

According to David Feherty, it requires a player to have the sort of vivid imagination which is not always found in the game’s great practitioners. In a more pragmatic approach, three-time major champion, Padraig Harrington, believes it essentially comes down to the simple business of not getting in your own way.

The most impressive effort from a professional was by a woman, Annika Sorenstam. For her history-making 59 in the Standard Register Ping Tournament of March 2001, she birdied each of her opening eight holes, having started at the 10th.

The subject? Seriously low scoring in tournament golf. Its fascination lies in the difficulty of actually pinning it down. Why, for instance, did Darren Clarke manage to shoot 60 twice in European Tour events while having a makeable putt for a 59 at The K Club in 1999, while a leading player like six-time major champion, Nick Faldo, found it very difficult to go low? The staging of the Irish Open at Baltray, twice in recent years, brought to mind the fact that it is not confined to the professional classes. By any standards,

Smurfit European Open effort of 1999 and Craig Spence from the Johnnie Walker Classic of 2003, have matched it. And it has been an equally rare occurrence in the US, though Mark O’Meara did it in the old Dunhill Cup at in 1996.

Tom Egan's performance in the third round of the 1962 East of Ireland Amateur Championship at that charming venue, was remarkable. It happened when, en route to the title, he carded eight successive birdies, from the second to the ninth, in an outward 30. And he then held his nerve for a homeward 37 to equal the course record of 67 eight under par at that time. As it happened, the 31-year-old Cork jeweller and a member of the Monkstown club, had only the modest aspiration that weekend of regaining his place on the Ireland amateur team. Which he did. Yet he set a benchmark which has not been outstripped in 52 years, even by professionals from both sides of the Atlantic. Ten European professionals, led by Seve Ballesteros and Ian Woosnam in 1985 and including Clarke from his www.seniortimes.ie

In this context, it could be argued that the most impressive effort from a professional was by a woman, Annika Sorenstam. For her history-making 59 in the Standard Register Ping Tournament of March 2001, she birdied each of her opening eight holes, having started at the 10th. "After that run, it was kind of a relief to make a par four, because I was pushing myself so hard," she said later. "But after the par, I birdied four in a row. That's when I started counting. And when I birdied my 17th hole, I was like 'Wow! Only a few guys have ever done that.' That's when it really hit me." America’s Al Geiberger was the first man to shoot 59 in a professional tournament in the 1977 Danny Thomas Memphis Classic

America’s Al Geiberger was the first man to shoot 59 in a professional tournament, which he did in the 1977 Danny Thomas Memphis Classic. And, interestingly, having started on the 10th, he proceeded Senior Times September 2014 Page 75

Why did Darren Clarke manage to shoot 60 twice in European Tour events while having a makeable putt for a 59 at The K Club in 1999

Tom Egan's performance in the 1962 East of Ireland Amateur Championship at Baltray was remarkable: It happened en route to the title, he carded eight successive birdies, from the second to the ninth, in an outward 30. And he then held his nerve for a homeward 37 to equal the course record of 67 -eight under par at that time.

to have a run from the short 15th amounting to eight under par, but it was for seven successive holes which included an eagle on the long first. Meanwhile, lest our younger brethren run away with an image of hickory shafts on a glorified pitch-and-putt course, it should be noted that Baltray measured 6,606 yards on the occasion of Egan's exploits. And his eight birdies were done over a testing front nine of 3,371 yards. Significantly, he had overshadowed the best scoring burst by an Irish professional up to that time, which had come from aspiring Ryder Cup player, Jimmy Martin, who had eight birdies and an eagle, though not successively, during the Swallow Penfold Tournament at Stoneham, in England, in 1961. Interestingly, another Cork player, Jimmy Bowen, was next into the Irish scoring limelight. During the 1966 season, when the teenage Peter Townsend became something of a sensation in tournaments over here, Bowen carded an inward 30 -- eight under par --in the Waterford Glass Trophy, with eight successive birdies from the 11th, culminating in a finish of 2,3,3. Though he claimed a new course-record 66 for Waterford GC, Bowen still finished six strokes behind the rampant Townsend for the 36-hole event. That, incidentally, was in August 1966, shortly before Christy O'Connor Snr produced the same figures for his famous eagle-birdie-eagle finish to the Carrolls International at Royal Dublin. But it doesn't end there. In terms of sub-par figures, the greatest scoring burst by an Irish golfer, was recorded in October 1994, by the son of a Corkman. When carding a 63 in the South African PGA Tour School at the Crown Mines club, Johannesburg, David Higgins was nine under par for the opening seven holes, which he covered in two eagles and five birdies. “I think the best I’ve done is four or five birdies in a row,” admitted Harrington, with typical candour. “The sort of scores you're talking about are very, very difficult and, in my view, often have little to do with your ability to hit a golf ball. In fact how you're swinging the club is the furthest thing from your mind. It's got to do with your ability to let yourself hit the ball and not get in the way." Even at my decidedly modest level as a golfer, what he says makes eminent sense. For instance, through a series of miraculous happenings, I once covered the front nine at Clontarf GC in level-par gross. And standing on the 10th tee, I can remember asking myself: "I wonder what I'm doing right?" Page 76 Senior Times September 2014

After bogey, double-bogey, double-bogey at the following three holes, the answer became largely academic. As Harrington explained: "Your mind gets very active when you're on a hot scoring run and it's very difficult to keep it quiet. Thinking too much causes you to come out of the zone or not to get into it at all. So, to make eight successive birdies is incredible, even assuming that you choose the right stretch of holes and get all the right breaks. "You could, of course, be totally oblivious to what's happening. Or you could be an exceptionally talented person with the ability to control your thinking, almost at will. I suppose I would be somewhere between those two categories of player _ stuck there in that big muddle, some days controlling my thinking and some days not." What sort of hot scoring did he admire most. "Well, if a player shoots 63,75, it tells me that his 63 wasn't all that great," Harrington replied. "I remember being really impressed with David Duval's 59, because I could imagine him building towards a level of concentration which would allow him shoot that score. Sorenstam, on the other hand, must really have put herself in a state of mind from the outset, so as to do eight birdies in a row on the way to her 59." He paused, before continuing: "But do you know one of the most impressive scores I've come across in recent years?" In answer to his own question, Harrington recalled the amazing effort of Hermitage seven-handicapper, Pat O'Donovan, who carded 18 straight pars in a club monthly medal about 10 years ago. "I could more easily understand him breaking par, even off seven," he said. "Or to have, say, 17 pars and a birdie. But I don't think I've ever managed to shoot 18 pars. I know Nick Faldo did it to win the 1987 Open at Muirfield, but it's a very strange round. Even playing the golf of a lifetime, the pressure on a seven-handicapper would still be unbelievable, especially coming down the 18th. Pat would probably have had a better chance of winning the lottery." Ah the fateful 18th.... It just so happens that Pat is an acquaintance of mine who was happy to recount his closing par. "I pulled my drive into trees on the left," he said, "knocked it back out about 20 yards and then hit a seven iron to the back fringe of the green. From there, I bladed a nine-iron chip and the ball banged against the pin before dropping into the hole."With that, he laughed heartily before concluding: "I suppose you could say I was lucky." www.seniortimes.ie

Advice

Know Your Rights

Advice from the Citizens Information Service

I bought a holiday home in October 2012. I paid the Local Property Tax for 2013 but I thought the NPPR had been abolished. Do I still have to pay it?

The Non-Principal Private Residence (NPPR) charge was payable for the 5 years 2009 to 2013 for residential property that was not the owner’s only or main residence, so you will owe this charge in respect of 2013. The NPPR is no longer charged from 2014 onwards, but outstanding liabilities and payments are still being collected by the local authorities and these can be substantial. The NPPR charge was €200 for each relevant property that you owned on the liability date each year and was due to be paid within 3 months. In general, the liability date was 31 March and the payment was due by 30 June each year. A late fee of €20 was charged for each month, or part of a month, after each due date. These late fees increased each month. They are shown on a table of charges at HYPERLINK "https://www.nppr.ie/Faq.aspx" \l "fk0" nppr.ie. If you owned your holiday home on 31 March 2013 and have not paid the NPPR for 2013, you now owe €380. If you do not pay your liabilities in full by 31 August 2014, or agree settlement terms by that deadline, you will incur additional penalties and you will then owe €750. There will not be any further increase. To avoid these additional penalties, you should arrange as soon as possible to pay the 2013 charge plus the late fees that have accrued. You can pay online at nppr.ie or else use a paper form. www.seniortimes.ie

You should also check any other taxes and charges that may still be due on your holiday home – such as the Household Charge (payable for the year 2012 in addition to the NPPR), and the septic tank registration charge (if relevant). In 2009, I bought a bike under the Cycle to Work tax scheme but it was stolen last week. Can I use the scheme again when I buy a replacement bike? The Cycle to Work Scheme is a tax incentive scheme which aims to encourage employees to cycle to and from work. Under the scheme employers can pay up to €1,000 for a bicycle and bicycle equipment for each of their employees. The repayment for the bicycle and equipment is then deducted from your gross salary (this means before income tax, PRSI, pension levies or Universal Social Charge are deducted) over a period of up to 12 months. You can only avail of the scheme once in a five-year period. So if you got your bike in December 2009 and were granted the tax relief in 2009, you can claim it again if you want to buy another bike in 2014 or later. You must use the bicycle and safety equipment mainly for qualifying journeys. This means the whole or part (for example between home and train station) of a journey between your home and your normal place of work. If you buy a replacement bike in 2014 you cannot get another bike under the Cycle to Work Scheme until 2018. If you are concerned about another theft you could insure your new bike Senior Times September Page 77

under your household insurance policy or you could use a special cycle insurance scheme. There is a list of frequently asked questions about the scheme on revenue.ie."http://www.revenue.ie/en/tax/it/leaflets/ benefit-in-kind/faqs/cycle-work.html" \l "cycle1"

My daughter is 22 years old and lives with her partner who is 25. He is currently unemployed and has been claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance for three months. She has just finished college but cannot find work. What amount of Jobseeker’s Allowance can she qualify for? People aged under 26 get a lower rate of Jobseeker’s Allowance. If she claims Jobseeker’s Allowance in her own right the maximum amount she is eligible for is €100 a week. However, her partner could claim for her as a dependent adult on his Jobseeker’s Allowance claim and he would be paid €124.80 each week in addition to his personal payment. Even though the rate paid is less, it might be more beneficial for her to claim Jobseeker’s Allowance in her own right because you she is then eligible for a range of training and employment schemes to help her into employment. If she takes up a place on a course of education, training or an employment support scheme she will get a higher rate of payment.

Maximum Jobseeker’s Allowance rates for people under 26 Age Personal rate 18 - 24 €100 25 €144

Increase for a qualified adult €100 €124.80

The reduced personal and qualified adult rates of Jobseeker’s Allowance (JA) for claimants under 26 do not apply to claimants with dependent children.

Know Your Rights has been compiled by Citizens information Service which provides a free and confidential service to the public. Information is also available online at citizensinformation.ie or from Citizens Information Phone Service 0761 074000

COMPETITION WINNERS FROM LAST ISSUE Two Aflorex Health Kits Eileen O’Connor, Cork Michael McDonald, Dublin 6

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Poetry Corner

Poetry

Two poems by David O’Reilly

Back from suicide

David O’Reilly is a 53 year-old Dubliner, married with two daughters. He works for an engineering supply company, and enjoys writing poetry in his spare time. His motto is 'roll up your sleeves and work for better times!'

Meditation Room at Dzogchen Beara, Castletownbere, Co. Cork. I find it hard to sit here and meditate— on what? what I have written—or, say a prayer, as I am used to—or, are the Wild Horses actually meditation in themselves---is this mindfulness ? is this why I am here ?

A man called Horse He was a horse of a man Equestrian, you might say Hi Ya! Horse! they'd call As he cantered along his way Shirt, three buttons open, tattoo on his chest Blinged medallion stallion A breed above the rest Of course , he was no stallion His looks were crude and bland Lager in arse pocket, nosebag in his hand His mane was long and full of dirt It never saw a rake But still he thought that he could flirt I know...For pitys' sake! Still and all , he loved to hear Hi Ya! Horse! , called out Hoping for a filly at the other end of shout One day , not paying attention "Look out ! Horse ! cried out He walked in front of speeding bike And knocked the cyclist out! Nor did Horse recover Amongst that steel and blood For when they finished treating him He'd never now be stud He was a shadow of a man Timid , you might say Hi Ya! Horse! , they'd call As he looked the other way But in his mind he'd still recall His former glory day Hi Ya! Horse! would echo As he limped along his way. Page 80 Senior Times September 2014

Two poems from Frank O’Reilly (no relation)

Office Snipers Dug in deep at the Office Prepared for combat Full on psychological warfare Full -metal fatigues tailored to size Casual Friday work wear lay strewn On the barbwired desks, riddled to bits An 'orrible bunch we were Devoid of humanity Us, the expendable workers Back packs and broken backs Punitive work loads intravenously administered Our guards were double agents The carefully chosen eyes and ears Betraying their comrades even as They shared our dug outs Reporting deep behind enemy lines We took the flak and gave it back Eight life hours in hell hole pits Day in- day out, way in- way out Some of us died in hideous harness While others filled their mission sheets Crocked at sixty five plus years The Sanatoriums and ol' folks homes Opened up their stagnant doors While white -washed walls listened long To old mens tales and old gals wails Who dodged the office snipers And died to tell the tale

Compare those little waves in Ventry— breathing in and breathing out. Compare them to the waves outside Dzogchen Beara Herds of galloping white horses, Breathing in and Breathing out--flared nostrils They have travelled a great distance. From way over the horizon and watching—you ask why? Galloping waves—each and every one – rushing to where? Breathing hard ..breathing fast—no relaxation...not thinking, one chasing the other, all very close together..why? Their end is near as they approach the rocky land, Steep cliffs—straight out of the water. The rushing herd of white horses crash on to the cliffs, one on top of the other.. They breath in and breath out for the last time against the rocky cliffs and die an instant, fast and cruel death Their last breath in and the very last breath out And they lie in white mounds of foam beneath the cliffs face. These horses were never born to run on green grass, and live to run again and again ! Is this their fate to let me watch them approach their deaths Oh! How easy a way out for them They start the run..they rush forward and cannot stop, others behind goad them on.. Are they imitating one another?— www.seniortimes.ie

Interested in getting your poetry published? Email your works – no more than five poems – with a short biography and a photo of yourself to: john@slp.ie

as each individual cannot now fall back from the End it has made for itself. And yet, if someone could tell them to relax, slow down—think and consider and meditate --the waves would slow down and very slowly approach the cliffs and then maybe decide to step back and think of life itself, and with help to stop! Help is there in the place where I saw the white horses A cure is there, the Buddhist way ‘But seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened unto you I should know, I have been there, where you are, three times and also, since I wrote the first draft of this, to my own funeral I witnessed it, as if floating above the congregation, listening to the words and music, watching my coffin being carried shoulder high by six gentlemen dressed in black Suits down the centre of the church and out the door...to my last resting place. I cried more than the mourners and yet I was happy as well that that was the end a happy end for me, but not for those left behind. Later on I felt down, down after the experience and then I remembered the advice I received where the white horses live in stormy weather But the storm subsides, the mind gets more restful, more peaceful and with mindfulness you can make that mind do what you want, take away those suicidal thoughts.. and brighten up, Get rid of the black cloud and see the sun, the sky You breath the breath of life Breathing in and breathing out. Naturally.. You Breath to live--- as you were born Now, live to breath, the breath of life, and come with me to a better, happier, brighter place on this earth.. www.seniortimes.ie

Early Morning I was feeling so tired These last two weeks. Tired and weary, took over my life My mind, kept my body in motion Blood test for Haemo C. Nothing. Then I seem to have a dream Went to bed at 8 pm Woke next day at 8.55 am Not feeling exactly relaxed But quiet in my mind.

Frank O'Reilly is a retired Father of 6, Grandfather of 15, GreatGrandfather of 5, and Husband of 1. Married for 58 years he enjoys spending his time gardening, writing, travelling around the country in his motor-home, and meditating whilst living in his home in Cork City. He had to retire from a steady career at the age of 50 due to Haemochromotosis. Just came out of 3 years of major depression he is now looking for closure. He now aims to spread his numerous writings of poetry and novels to the broader public.

You can do it. What I can do—so can you. Do not despair. Please. I have got my life back, and I am the Man everybody wanted to have returned to them. It is a beautiful feeling. If you go down again Lift yourself up again.. You can do it. Jesus fell three times, but he got up again, each time. To carry his cross. He could not do it alone. He got help. After falling for the first time, he meets his mother who consoled him by being there for him, but he is weak and needs help..so Simon of Cyrene steps in, and helps him A friend in need is a friend indeed. As he and Simon walk on with their heavy burden..another friend Steps out of the crowd..Veronica and wipes his face...another Friend. You need your friends.. Talk to them ....Talk..Talk..Talk.. it is a very good medicine.

Downstairs, I opened back door stood on the top step. Looking down my garden Not a stir, nothing moved, stillness in the air Soft warm feeling all over the garden and me. I stood, motionless, straight back, legs slightly apart Balance perfect and there I remained Perfectly still-- no support. Pampas grass.15 feet high. Not a stir. Not a stir for any leaf on the trees Lilac tree, as if made of stone And I stand and watch in wonder. Lake surfaces would now be like mirrors Sheltered harbours, glistening Boats colours reflected on the water Stillness all around. Like the washing on the line,, next door Tee shirts,, just hanging, as the still colours of the rainbow 15 in all—each a different colour Bright one..red blue yellow green This is not a team

But maybe from many teams...or many children The pampas grass really amazes me, I have it many, many years and yet I have never seen it so still. Wait for the sparrows to appear. One on a frond then a second on the same frond a third tries to land on it, but it sways down, down and they all fly away. The frond springs back. And they start all over again on another Frond Children on Swings. My mind sees all and is now at peace to rest and be glad. Senior Times September 2014 Page 81

Meeting Place ATTRACTIVE NORTH CO DUBLIN LADY, (60) with outgoing personality, NS, SD with many and varied interests WLTM respectable gent who would appreciate and treat her nicely. Age range 50s to early 70s REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W1

SOUTH CITY DUBLIN MAN, LATE 50s, MANY INTERESTS, including travel, cinema, reading, cycling, dining out WLTM lady with similr interests for friendship and perhaps more. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W10

MATURE LADY (60) WITH OUTGOING PERSONALITY would like to match up with lady or gent with a view to spending the coming winter (long term) in the Canary Islands to escape the unpleasant Irish winter. Would suit someone interested in peace, relaxation and friendship. Age 55 or over. NS, SD preferred. REPLY YO BOX NUMBER W2

NORTHSIDE DUBLIN LADY, EARLY 60s, NO TIES, has GSOH, WLTM single, refined, caring gentleman. NS, SD, loves country life, nature, and the simple pleasures of life. Interests include hill-walking, classical music, art and reading. I have some hearing difficulties. Perhaps if you are reading this and you are also in a similar situation you might like to get in touch. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W11

WEST OF IRELAND MAN EARLY 60s WLTM sincere lady for friendship/relationship. I am genuine, honest, caring. I like music, walking, DIY, sport, animals and country life. ALA. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W3 GAY FEMALE NS, LATE 50s, Munster area WLTM same for friendship/companionship. NS only REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W4 DUBLIN NORTHSIDE WIDOWER, 65, many and varied interests, seeks lively Dublinbased lady for diniing out, travel, cinema, walking etc., and of course for friendship and possible relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W5 ATTRACTIVE, ARTICULATE NEW YORK WOMAN EDUCATIONIST, late 50s, within Dublin catchment area WLTM a cultured, refined man with no ties. My interests are wide and varied and include a love of life, good conversation, comedy, theatre, travel, reading and the arts. My life is a tapestry of colours and sharing experiences makes it more enriched. Are you the complimentary other half? REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W6 LATE 60s CO GALWAY WIDOW. Interests include walking, cycling, country driving, gardening and travel. WLTM a late 60s widow. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W7 WEST OF IRELAND PROFESSIONAL LADY, semi-retired, single, NS, SD. Enjoys walking, travel, cinema, theatre, golf, weekends away, dining out, WLTM refined gentleman for friendship and companionship from any part of the country. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W8 RESPECTABLE SOUTH DUBLIN GENTLEMAN, 70, generous and interesting, WLTM lady for shared mutual enjoyment. Discretion assured and expected. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W9 www.seniortimes.ie

SOUTH DUBLIN WOMAN WLTM professional gentleman, 70 plus, widower, separated, divorced, single. Like all the finer things in life as well as antiques, fishing, beach combing, weekends away etc. TV addicts and smokers need not apply. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W12 SEMI RETIRED TIPP LADY, well travelled, no ties, very sincere, kind and caring. WLTM a gent of around 60 who is active, fit and has sound family values to share interest in the arts, keeping fit, good conversation. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B1 MIDLANDS GENT, GSOH, SD, NS, no ties, 65. Interests include walking, reading, DIY, gardening and travel. WLTM a lady, 55-65, with similar interests, for relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B2 RETIRED DUBLIN LEGAL SECRETARY, 72, 3rd level education, art qualification, many interests, WLTM educated gentleman for outings, companionship and friendship REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B3 SLIGO SINGLE WOMAN dancing enthusiast, mid 60s, WLTM male dancing partner to attend sequence, ceili, old-time, social dancing classes and events in the North West and surrounding areas. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B4 DUBLIN GENT, NS, ND, 60s, educated and refined, seeks sincere lady for friendship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B5 PETITE, SINGLE DUBLIN LADY, retired professional, late 60s, WLTM kind, sincere, respectable gent, NS, ND, for friendship, companionship. Interests include dancing, walking and cinema. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B6

SPANISH LADY, DUBLIN BASED, warm, kind and caring WLTM a respectable, e ducated gentleman, late 50s, early 60s for friendship and companionship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B7 DUBLIN/LEINSTER MAN, 58, good communicator, caring, reasonably good appearance, likes music, reading, good conversation, travel, eating out, WLTM lady with similar interests for friendship/romance. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B9 CORK WOMAN, 52, DIVORCED, would like to correspond with fun loving people who have a varied interest in life. Interested in travelling, holidays, walking, nature, dancing, music, cinema. Great listener. Would like to hear from people from all over the country. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B10 CLASSY LADY, DUBLIN-BASED, EARLY 60s recently returned to Ireland after living abroad for many years. Engaging, fit, attractive with outgoing personality seeks shy, sophisticated gentleman who is active, fit and has sound family values. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B11 SEMI-RETIRED DUBLIN MAN, various interests, seeks interesting lady for friendship and perhaps more. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B12 RETIRED CORK MAN, MANY INTERESTS, seeks to meet a sincere lady to enjoy Golden Years. Interests include foreign holidays, current affairs and the simple things in life. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B13 PROFESSIONAL FEMALE, NS, SD, 60, divorced, own business. Like reading, exercise and watching sport. WLTM a gent in similar circumstances. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B14 NORTH DUBLIN WIDOW, sincere, tall, intelligent, good appearance and personality. Likes literature, outdoors, theatre, travel, interesting conversation, etc. WLTM kind, outgoing, unattached man, 75+, for companionship and, perhaps, deep friendship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B15

SOUTH EAST WIDOWER businessman, 64. Interests include walking, good books, travel, food and wine, music, WLTM since lady for long term relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B16 RETIRED DUBLIN-BASED MALE DOCTOR, 61, widower, no ties, GSOH, WLTM independent woman with no ties. Interests include golf, current affairs, and travel. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S1 TALL DIVORCED 48 YEAR OLD MIDLANDS LADY, seeks tall, single professional gentleman, mid-50s with no ties, who is honest, generous and caring. Interests include travel, dancing, concerts, cinema, boating and sport. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S2 DUBLIN-BASED RETIRED MAIL TEACHER, widower, no ties, WLTM educated lady for friendship and to share interests in the arts, walking and music. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S3 PROFESSIONAL FEMALE, 60, AVERAGE HEIGHT, NS, SD. Separated and run own business. Interests include reading and exercise and watching sport. Looking to meet gent in similar circumstances. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S4 CORK CITY RETIRED MAN WLTM sincere lady to enjoy Golden Years with. Interest include foreign holidays, current affairs and the simple things in life NS preferred. Genuine replies only. ALA REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S5 DIVORCED WICKLOW LADY, 50S, NS, interested in travelling, walking, cinema, music, reading and eating out. WLTM gent with similar interests. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S6

INTERESTED? If you are interested in meeting someone of the opposite or same sex send your advertisement to: Meeting Place, Senior Times, Unit 1, 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6. Or email:john@slp.ie Please ensure you include your postal address for those not on the Net. Deadline for advertisements for the next printed issue of Senior Times and website listings is 27th September 2014 Important: When replying to advertisements in Senior Times, please enclose a stamp for each reply. We cannot accept email advertisements which do not also provide a postal address

DUBLIN GENT, NEVER MARRIED, 67, cheerful, cultured, unpretentious, presentable, respectful. Seeks positive lady to share the joy of life, the joy of giving and the joy of laughter. Perhaps we may discover great love also. Too many interests to mention. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S7 WEST MEATH, attractive, slim, active, spontaneous, degree educated woman, 58, GSOH and love of life, seeks sincere man with similar qualities. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S8 WEST MEATH MAN, public servant, WLTM interesting female 40-55 for friendship and travelling. Interests include cycling, boating/camping, walking and hill walking, cinema, amateur drama, current affairs and travelling. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S9 SEPARATED WOMAN, MID-60s, WLTM a nice gentleman for companionship and friendship. Interests include poetry, dancing, travel, dining out, bridge, walking, theatre. Must be tall and attractive, NS and SD only. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S10 LIMERICK LADY, 60s, interests include social interaction, travel, current affairs, dining out, theatre, gardening, WLTM other women for friendship, shared socialising and possible travel. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S11 SINGLE DUBLIN LADY, LATE SEVENTIES, interested in walks, visiting historical places of scenic or religious interest, WLTM a lady, single or window, who would also be interested in such things, who has a car and would like a companion to share the experiences. Also interested in gardening, forest walks, concerts, theatre, cinema. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S12 CORK LADY MID-50s, young at heart. Interests include music, walks, theatre, cinema, WLTM gent with similar interests. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S13 LIMERICK WOMAN MID 60s, unattached, semi-retired, young in outlook, caring and sincere, personable and outgoing. Interests include ready, lively conversation, travel, politics, theatre. WLTM gentleman with similar interests and has a GSOH. REPLY TO BOX S15 CLASSY DUBLIN LADY, early sixties, recently returned to Ireland after living abroad for many years, engaging, fit attractivewith outgoing personality. Seeksshy, sophisticated gent who is active, fit and has sound family values. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J1

DUBLIN LADY, pleasant, outgoing widow, 60s, NS, enjoy a glass of wine, WLTM a kind widower for friendship and companionship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J2 CORK LADY, 63. Interests include animals, history, dancing, socialising, walking and nature. WLTM a kind, respectable gent, single or widower. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J4 CAVAN MAN, interests include the arts, reading and nature, seeks woman with similar interests for friendship, outings, etc. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J5 ANCIENT DUBLIN LADY seeks ancient man to hobble across the dance floor together. NS, ND, can recite a poem to amuse. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J6 WICKLOW WOMAN, 60, interests include walking, yoga, gardening and cinema, WLTM people with similar interests for friendship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J7 PROFESSIONAL DUBLIN WOMAN, 50, WLTM man, 50-60, for friendship and companionship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J8 ATTRACTIVE, SOUTH COUNTY DUBLIN WOMAN, late 50s, NS, SD, interests include reading, bridge, sailing, tennis, travel, walking theatre and eating out, WLTM man late 50s to mid-60s with similar interests for friendship/relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J9 ACTIVE RETIRED OFFALY WOMAN, 60s, WLTM lady and gent for travel at home and abroad. Interests include music, dancing, walking, travel. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J10 SOUTH CO DUBLIN LADY, LATE 50s, divorced, youthful. Interests include reading, sailing tennis, eating out etc. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J11 CORK LADY, 60s, SINGLE, WLTM correspond with males and females for friendships. Interests include reading, art, animals and the simple things in life. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J12 ATTRACTIVE, ACTIVE, DUBLIN LADY, 70, NS, GSOH. Interests include tennis, ski-ing, yachting, classical music, languages and travel. WLTM refined gentleman with similar interests. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J13

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