Wymondham, Dereham & Watton - Jan 2014

JANUARY 2014 | PRICELESS

HEALTH & WELLBEING ENERGY UPDATE

motoring wymondham NEWS

FOR WYMONDHAM, DEREHAM & WATTON

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

January 2014

WELCOME

HEYY!

YOU LOOKIN’

AT ME?

So are 45,000 other people...

In future they could be looking at your business.

Call us 01953 456789

Tel: 01953 456789 www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk @Dispatch_Mag

DispatchMag

Editor: Jonathan Horswell

Issue 76 January 2014

Advertising: sales@DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Deadline for all submissions for the next issue is: January 13th 2014

Editorial: editorial@DispatchMagazine.co.uk Design: design@DispatchMagazine.co.uk Dispatch Magazine: 01953 456789 Queens House, Queens Square, Attleborough, Norfolk. NR17 2AE.

Š Dispatch Magazine Disclaimer: No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the Publisher. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Publisher.

Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate, but the Publisher can not assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. Whilst reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements the Publisher will not accept any resulting unsatisfactory transactions. They will, however, immediately investigate any written complaints. The Publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.

January 2014

WYMONDHAM

www.wymondhamonline.co.uk

The 2014 Handbook for Wymondham

A Look At Liability Insurance

A brand new handbook for a brand new year is on its way to you!

Whether you are a convicted driver, young driver, or have limited no claims bonus, we can find the policy cover specific to your requirements.

We are delighted to confirm the 2014 / 2015 Handbook for Wymondham has been completed and is being delivered to every home and business throughout Wymondham during January, So expect to see one through your door any day soon!

The 2014 / 2015 Handbook for Wymondham is a Dispatch Magazine publication, and follows the same style and format of the previous Town Guides which we have been responsible for producing in Wymondham for the past 8 years.

This time however, because of the restrictions that are involved when working directly with local authorities, we have produced this publication independently.

The new Handbook for Wymondham has a new fresh new design and follows a similar style to the monthly magazine.

It has information on all the various Clubs, Organisations, Charities and Businesses in and around the town, ensuring all the vital information for residents is available in one handy handbook.

The 2014 / 2014 Handbook for Wymondham is also published online, so you have access to it wherever you are, at any time. view it athttp://www.dispatch-magazine. co.uk/readonline/bookshelf.php It’s never too early to start planning for the next issue, so we invite all Clubs, Organisations, Charities and Businesses to send in their most up to date information to ensure it is included in the 2016 / 2017 edition.

Submit your information via email: editorial@DispatchMagazine.co.uk Happy Reading

2014/2015 | PRICELESS

YOUR COMMUNITY GUIDE

WYMONDHAM

January 2014

We have negotiated special rates with our panel of Insurers for those careful drivers and special introductory discounts for those without any no claim bonus.

We are always able to offer instalment facilities. We deal with many leading UK and Lloyds Underwriters to provide the best possible quotation and cover for our clients, regardless of the risk.

Being totally independent means that we are not tied to a single provider and this allows us access to a range of insurance policies from our panel of carefully selected Insurers.

Why not let us compare the market for you and deal on a personal level with your requirements.

Priory Insurance Brokers are a locally owned, independent, professional organisation who have been based in South Norfolk for over 40 years.

We would be pleased to provide quotations or advice for you and look forward to receiving your enquiry.

For more information, please feel free to call in to our Wymondham Office.

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WYMONDHAM

Window Geeks “Replacing your steamed-up windows doesn’t mean you have to replace the whole window…Save thousands by changing only the glass”…

It can be stressful when things break or go wrong; especially when it seems the only solution comes at great expense.

Unexpected bills can hit households very hard at a time when every penny counts and it means that thousands of homeowners put off repairing their windows or doors for fear of the high costs usually associated with these types of products...

Well now you can relax…because WindowGeeks, a national window, door and conservatory repair specialist, has expanded into Norwich and will service the whole of the Norfolk region, giving local home owners access to real money-saving options; one that can reduce what could be an alarming bill in the thousands to a far more acceptable one in the low hundreds - and in most cases even lower than that.

The fact is that the average single repair or replacement undertaken by WindowGeeks, which includes locks, handles and hinges, as well as the usual replacement of steamed-up double glazed units is less

than £60...not surprising really when you consider that the replacement of a single steamed-up double glazed window starts from as low as £30 including VAT and fitting…which is why, at this point, many people take the opportunity to upgrade to energy efficient double glazed units.

Our new local and experienced team, headed up by Steve Olley, join all of our other skilled craftsmen and women throughout the UK, each providing a professional and cost effective service to 1,000s of customers from Plymouth in the Southwest, through Norwich in the East, up to Preston in the North and all points in-between…

“Lots of people have problems with their windows,” says Steve, “They get steamed-up and won’t clear, or the locks stick or the handles get loose…and it becomes even more of a problem at this time of year when cold draughts get through...but what’s really surprising is that most people don’t realise that all of these problems can be fixed quickly and without spending a fortune or having to

sell one or more of their children, unless they want to of course”…

WindowGeeks has over 38 years’ experience in the glazing industry and it’s sad to think that there are still quite a few traditional window companies that either refuse or just don’t want to carryout repairs…now were not saying that all double glazing companies don’t carry out repairs, many do, and do a great job, but Steve adds, “In most cases they’re not really interested in the smaller jobs and that’s what’s so great about WindowGeeks, we offer a real cost-effective solution, which makes it a very easy decision for our customers to choose us...there’s no pressure sales from us because there’s no viable alternative, unless, that is, you want to spend 10, 20 or even 100 times more on replacing all your double glazing!”

While the cost savings might be the biggest draw, there’s another reason customers should choose WindowGeeks and one that has inevitably convinced many customers throughout the UK to use us;

“It’s all about honesty and trust,” says Steve. “There’s integrity in what WindowGeeks do and that’s very important to me, we tell the truth, only charge for what needs doing and we always honour our promises…We run a very successful and ethical business based on good old fashioned customer service backed up with top quality products and support from our head office.”

WindowGeeks provides free quotations with; • No call out charges • No credit card charges • No deposits • No minimum order values, • No high pressure sales men or women • No hidden extras • 10 year guarantee on all glazed products All our quotes include VAT and Fitting Call now for a FREE QUOTE on 0800 61 22 943 or visit us at www.windowgeeks.co.uk

January 2014

WYMONDHAM

www.wymondhamonline.co.uk

Kerry Butcher Accountancy Services Happy New Year and a Happy 2014 to all of you.

We hope that you had a wonderful Christmas and hopefully you are ready to start the new year with a bang.

miss, then maybe now is the time to start a New Year’s resolution to keep better records.

January is always a bit of a miserable month after the excitement of Christmas and it doesn’t improve when you remember that this is the month to pay your tax if you complete a self assessment tax return.

One of our services here at KBA is to help our clients with their book keeping. We will do as much as we can to help you keep your business records straight during the year so that come the year end putting the accounts together is a nice easy process.

Don’t forget that 31 January 2014 is the FINAL day for submitting your tax return if you want to avoid a fine.

There is still a bit of time if you have been putting this off, but don’t leave it too long as it’s not just elephants that don’t forget; HMRC are pretty good at remembering too.

We have had a number of our clients being contacted by HMRC and being advised that they will be having their tax returns or their book keeping systems checked. Did you know that it is actually an offence not to keep adequate records for any business?

So if your book keeping is a bit hit and

January 2014

We sit down with quite a few of our clients and provide example spreadsheets for them so that they can record their monthly outgoings and sales etc. It’s often a lot easier than you think, especially if this is set up just for you. We want to help you keep on top of your book keeping and reduce your accountancy fees as much as we can.

If you have a lot of book keeping and need more help, then we can offer a monthly book keeping service where you drop your books and papers off

every month or quarter and we will do the rest for you. We will even store your paperwork for you, all year at no extra cost and then give it back to you in one go after we have completed your year end accounts. Just one of the great services that we offer.

Do you have a limited company?

Would you like a more central address for the public record? Another service that we offer is to be your company’s Registered Office. This means that our address here at Exchange House is held at Companies House and all the official company documents are sent to us first. We can then contact you to deal with them if and when it is needed.

This service also helps to reduce junk mail for your business. Now I am sure that you know that many accountants offer this kind of service – but did you know that here at KBA there is NO CHARGE for this service – it is completely free. Not many places offer this for free!

Here at KBA we want to help all our clients and businesses do the best they can in the difficult current economic client and whether that be extra time to pay, free registered office or help with book keeping, we do whatever we can to make your business the best. If you are happy and successful, then our job is done.

So if you need help with book keeping, company accounts, self assessment, payroll services or any of the other services we offer then why not give us a call on 01953 457173 Kerry@kerrybutcher.co.uk We want 2014 to be an amazing year for all of us!

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WYMONDHAM

Designing A Future In Norfolk There’s no place like home for Wymondham based graphic design company KSD Associates.

Having returned to his Norfolk roots two years ago, owner Kevin Smith is taking the business from strength to strength and is committed to helping support the local economy.

were happening elsewhere in the country.

I trained at Norwich School of Art & Design and have always felt a strong affinity with Norfolk. So I relocated the business and we’ve never looked back.”

Since KSD started trading 10 years ago, the world of graphic design has changed dramatically. London’s dominance as the ‘place to be’ is rapidly diminishing. With digital artwork and online communications, graphic design agencies like KSD can be effective anywhere in the country, offering high quality service to local businesses as well as a wider national marketplace.

Closer relationships

As a result, regional cities such as Norwich have become hubs of design excellence, with the creative energy they generate inevitably pulsing out into the wider regional community.

“Having worked in London agencies, it seemed natural for me to choose a base close to the capital when I launched KSD a decade ago,” says Kevin. “However, two years ago I realised that, mainly because of the internet revolution, exciting things

Being close at hand, Kevin can get to know his Norfolk based clients better, to understand how their businesses work and what they are aiming to achieve.

“There’s no substitute for personal contact, “ he says. “I like to build close working relationships with my clients. I’m also committed to using local suppliers and partners to help support the regional economy.”

With lower overheads, KSD can offer high standards of creativity and project management at an affordable price.

Therefore, as well as continuing to work with existing London-based clients, the company can cost-effectively service the needs of local businesses who may have limited marketing budgets.

“It’s all about matching our skills to the available spend“ asserts Kevin. “Because we combine creativity with commercial awareness, we can create eye-catching yet practical solutions for anything from a full marketing campaign to a brochure, website or e-shot.”

An integrated approach As well as taking advantage of increased mobility, KSD has also embraced the opportunities available in online design media. Most businesses are now integrating new and traditional marketing methods.

That’s why we think laterally, combining online and offline media to create impact and get maximum response.”

The results speak for themselves. KSD has successfully designed everything from brochures for skiing holidays to websites for organisations that run religious missions, from branding and identity for small service businesses to e-newsletters for major corporations.

So what does the future hold for this dynamic business? “As long as the world continues to move forward, so will we,” confirms Kevin.

Therefore, to be competitive graphic design companies must offer a one-stop service to provide coherent, cohesive strategy and execution.

“Right now everyone’s talking about apps for smartphones and tablets.Then there are revolutionary new technologies, such as augmented reality”

“We’ve evolved our business for today’s world,” explains Kevin. “We understand how important the web and social media have become to many companies. Yet we know that traditional marketing methods still have an important role to play”

“Whatever the next big thing is, we’ll take it and run with it. The media may change, but good design never goes out of fashion.”

Tel - 01953 601757

January 2014

DEREHAM

www.derehamonline.co.uk

J.D.T. Music Academy Based in Dereham, has taught hundreds of students since it opened in 2001 It boasts a dynamic and lively teaching environment to students of all ages and abilities, from 3 to over 70 years old!

Offering a wealth of musical knowledge and expertise, our services are delivered by six experienced tutors during the day and evening, Monday to Friday throughout the year. J.D.T. Music Academy, located on Rash’s Green Industrial Estate, is co-owned

by Miss Janel Spalding and Miss Nia Howe.

Having taught the Drums for several years and played in many successful bands, including The Weasels and The Eleventh Hour, Janel’s ambition has always been to create a family friendly learning environment, encouraging people from all walks of life to embrace and enjoy music.

Her bubbly, outgoing personality and creative mind has been the driving force behind the success of the studio, and she continues to inspire students young and old!

Nia has a degree in Arts Management and manages the business side of this popular school. She is also the resident Singing Tutor and Musical Director of RockavoX. Known to everyone as ‘Tig’, Nia sings in several performance choirs, including the Mid Norfolk Singers, Songbyrd and Close Harmony, raising money for charities across the county.

The Academy offers individual tuition in Bass, Electric and Acoustic Guitar, Ukulele, Keyboard, Piano, Singing and Music Theory, delivering the Rockschool, ABRSM and Trinity College London syllabus’s Grades 1-8.

There are also regular music workshops for children and adults, allowing students to work towards ‘live’ performances throughout the year.

Contact us at: jdtmusic@hotmail.co.uk Tel: 01362 694817 Website: www.jdtmusic.co.uk

Private Music Lessons

Live Performances & Tours

Kid’s Activity Weeks

Arts Award - Ages 5-25

RockavoX - Rock Choir

January 2014

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WATTON

Watton Rugby Football Gina’s Pet Shop Club

If you are looking for a local, well stocked pet shop in Watton then look no further than Gina’s Pet Shop

Watton RFC is a local rugby club based at the Watton Sports Centre on the Dereham road

When you are looking for a pet shop that offers expertise and care, as well as the knowledge that comes from owning and breeding animals then you have come to the right place.

Rabbit Breeders in Watton Gina’s pet shop aims to cater for all of your pet requirements. We have a wide range of stock available and we are always on hand with advice and expertise regarding keeping your animals happy, healthy and amused.

Watton have had a good first half of the rugby season for 2013/14; they are currently sitting at second in the league below Diss 2nd team who are in the lead at the top.

Watton have recently had some big games; on the 7th of December they played Holt rugby club where they wore pink armbands and socks in support of the DoEveRYthiNg Foundation for the Blackwell family, from Watton. Their son, Deryn, is battling a rare form of cancer and leukemia and his dad Simon was a former Watton player.

The team went out and gave 100%, beating Holt 47-6 and putting them into second place.

The club recently had a quiz night in aid of the RFU’S Injured Rugby Players foundation, there was an impressive turnout of 50 participants and was a good money raiser for the foundation.

The Watton 2nd team also had a great win against the Norwich 3rd team on the 14th of December giving the club

another huge confidence boost and hopefully seeing that the second team bring in some more wins for the club.

This year Watton have arranged their tour for this season, in April 2014 we will be seeing the Watton team go on tour to York and could lead to one of their matches against York’s 1st team; This will be an eventful weekend for the club and the team.

Watton has training on Tuesdays for adults running from 7:30- 9pm. They have recently seen many new players wanting to get involved with the club.

We also breed quality rabbits and guinea pigs (whose parents can be seen) and invite you to take one of these adorable animals home with you to become a well loved member of your family.

Small Pet Boarding in Norfolk As a member of the Pet Care Trust we can offer confident care and as such we also offer a small animal boarding

service allowing you to feel secure while you are away that your animals are safe and happy.

If you would like to take advantage of the claw and teeth clipping service we offer, as well as of the stock of wild bird feed and products we have, please get in touch.

We also offer FREE advice to all owners and prospective owners of small pets in Watton, and our personal service and quality advice have earned us an excellent reputation in the local area.

Find Out More So if you are looking for quality breed rabbits and guinea pigs or for pet supplies please get in touch on01953 883920 or vist us in-store at 70 High St, Watton, Thetford IP25 6AH

On Thursdays there is youth training running from 6:30-8pm; It would be great to see a higher number of younger participants keen to get involved.

There are also games for adults starting at 2pm on Saturdays and supporters are more than welcome!

To keep up to date on the news and events of Watton RFC, visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/wattonrfc

January 2014

10 Homes & gardens

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Sound Sleep Beds When you’re shopping for a new bed or mattress, what do you look for? Comfort, quality or price?

Infact you should be looking at all of these factors, but how do you know what you are buying is up to standard?

The National Bed Federation (NBF), founded in 1912, is the recognised trade association representing UK manufacturers of beds and their suppliers. The members of the NBF today account for 75% of the total UK bedding turnover. In 2013, the NBF have introduced their new Code of Practice, the main objectives of this are to encourage good practice within the bed industry and to reassure consumers that the National Bed Federation members are independently assessed and comply with the recognised industry standards as part of its requirement for membership. All NBF members are assessed to a robust standard, this helps discourage bad practice within the industry.

There are three key criteria for the Code of Practice are Flammability, Cleanliness of Fillings and Trade Descriptions. All products must comply with British

Standard fire regulations. With a cigarette test, did you know that within 3 minutes a non-compliant mattress would be on fire, whereas a compliant mattress will have self-extinguished in that time.

The average UK response time for fire fighters is nine minutes, within this time the room would be a blaze and would pose risk to life.

Many non NBF members use uncleaned materials reused from old mattresses which is unhygienic and unsanitary.

The Code of Practice ensures that all members use correct filling and if they are using recycled materials, they must declare this. The trade descriptions element ensures that all models are as they say they are, making sure that the spring counts, fillings and fabrics are all as they are in their descriptions and labeling if applicable.

Therefore, when you are looking at purchasing a new bed or mattress, it may be worth looking that the manufacturer is NBF approved. Although your new mattress may not be NBF

approved, it does not mean that it is not compliant with safety regulations. Various mattresses were tested across the UK in 2013, and some were found to be an old mattress inside a new mattress. The old mattresses had been recovered with a new top layer of fillings, new border and cover on top, so on the outside looks like a brand new mattress. This is a very profitable way of making mattresses; however, it is very unethical and does not comply to fire safety regulations, even though the fire label says it does.

Many mattresses that can be purchased online are not regulated and descriptions and names differ from what is advertised and if the label says it has 1000 pocket springs, you wouldn’t know if it didn’t!

At Sound Sleep, we currently have 98% of our beds and mattresses from NBF approved members. In 2014, we will be moving to all approved suppliers. So when you buy your new bed or mattress from Sound Sleep, you can be sure it is brand new, clean, correct specification and most importantly safe!

The 27th December sees the start of our biggest ever January sale, with free drawers offers on Sealy, Rest Assured and Silentnight beds. In addition, on the Silentnight Diamond Collection and the brand new Rest Assured Heritage there will be up to £100 off the in store marked prices. To celebrate the arrival of two new brands, Myers and Slumberland, we are offering two free drawers and free pillows with each divan bed.

With fantastic offers like these and many more in store, there has never been a better time to buy a new bed.

Sleep Safe. Sleep Sound. Sound Sleep. www.soundsleepbeds.co.uk www.bedfed.org.uk

To celebrate the launch of our January Sale, we are giving up to £100 OFF the in store marked prices on the BRAND NEW Silentnight Geltex Collection, the Silentnight Diamond Collection and the BRAND NEW Rest Assured Heritage Collection * see in store for details - terms and conditions apply

SOUND SLEEP BED WAREHOUSE - MILE ROAD - WINFARTHING - IP22 2EZ - 01953 861177 Find us on the B1077 between Diss & Attleborough

Monday - Friday 9:00 - 5:00 Saturday 10:00 - 4:00 Sunday 10:00 - 1:00 See online for Christmas Opening Hours and for more fantastic sale offers! www.soundsleepbeds.co.uk

January 2014

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HOMES & GARDENS 11

2014 Home Utility Review Major suppliers continue to increase their prices.

Have you noticed how the Energy Companies and the Phone Companies have been raising their prices recently?

BT are putting their standard line rental up to £15.99 TalkTalk are putting their line rental up to £15.40 Sky are putting their line rental up to £15.45 Virgin are putting their line rental up to £15.99 The good news is Utility Warehouse are freezing their line rental at just £14.90 per month until further notice – that’s up to £34 a year cheaper than any other major supplier when you also include their extra fees for paper billing, which Utility Warehouse provide for free!

In fact, there’s only one major supplier who still offers free evening and weekend calls to all their customers – and that’s Utility Warehouse! Not to mention great savings on calling mobiles, where our charges are up to 80% cheaper too!

But it’s not just our landline telephony and broadband which are competitive.

We also offer unbeatable value on our mobile and energy services too, with a brand new energy price guarantee.

Since introducing our new bundles and FREE MEMBERSHIP in November, we have seen a 100% increase in the proportion of new members taking all five services to qualify for our very best ‘Double Gold’ prices.

What do our customers say about us?

And it’s not just their line rental they’ve been putting up! Did you know that they have all stopped giving away free evening local/national calls? And they’ve increased their daytime and call set-up charges too.

“I’ve been a customer of The Utility Warehouse for just over 2 years, and with all the news of massive energy increases I am so glad I became a customer.

Whilst my utility bills are defiantly lower

than before, that really is just one small aspect of why I switched to them.

The UK based call centre is a massive benefit, although to be honest I’ve never had the need to call them. All of my utilities being charged on just one bill is fantastic, and it’s easy to read, easy to understand and everything is itemised.

One of the big advantages of becoming a customer of The Utility Warehouse is their Cash back card, which really does give me cash back every month.

Every time I fill my car up with fuel at Sainsbury’s, I get cash back. Every time I do my day to day shopping at places like Marks and Spencer’s, B&Q, Homebase, the list goes on, they all pay a percentage off my utility bill, which normally amounts to £30.00 per month, which is my home phone, my Broadband and about half of my mobile phone paid for every month!

Becoming a customer has been a great experience, and I pay less for my utilities compared to the bigger energy and

telephone companies. Only this week I received a letter from them informing me my gas and electric would be going up. To be honest I was expecting an increase, and I was delighted to read the small increase was significantly less than the news has been reporting the other big 6 companies would be putting their prices up by. It’s a win win!”

Why don’t you see how much you can save next month, and every month by having a FREE home Utility review via Utility Warehouse.

The area representative for Attleborough, Bury St Edmunds, Dereham, Diss, Watton, Wymondham and all the surrounding villages is Jonathan who can be contacted on 07802 690589 www.Utility-Bills.co.uk Tel: 07802 690589 Have a Review – it’s free!

January 2014

12 Homes & gardens

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Rosedale 2014 New Year’s Resolutions with a difference!

An award winning Funeral Directors will be opening their doors to give the opportunity for all your funeral related questions to be answered by professionals under one roof.

Rosedale Funeral Home are inviting the public to visit their Attleborough & Wymondham funeral homes in January with the emphasis on making new year’s resolutions and speaking openly about their final wishes as well as offering free consultations with local solicitors Spires LLP & Fosters regarding will writing and probate issues.

As well as information on the vast array of funeral options available nowadays, on hand will be a ‘panel of experts’ who will be able to answer anything you’ve ever wanted to know – where else could you talk to a Funeral Director, Solicitor, Minister of Religion, Civil Celebrant, Pre Paid Funeral plan expert, approved tutor for the National Association of Funeral Directors Diploma in Funeral Directing and Bereavement Counsellor all in the same place?

David Button, Funeral Director for Attleborough and Wymondham, will be available to answer all questions regarding his profession as well as showing people around the premises. ”We are very keen to dispel the whole idea of not wanting to talk about death especially our own.

January 2014

We hope that by inviting people into a funeral home we can lessen the taboo that surrounds talking about death and encourage it as a topic of conversation that families and loved ones seriously have with one another” “We often have families who have very little idea as to what their loved ones last wishes were. Whether they wanted to be buried or cremated? What they wanted to wear? What their favourite song was? These unknown answers can add tremendous worry and stress to the already grieving.

Quite simply, what we want people to take away from the open day is an idea of how they want their own funeral to be, even if it is just that they have decided to be cremated and that they would like an Elvis Presley and share it with their loved ones or write it down and leave it with your will.

We want people to be aware of all of their options and know what is available to them” said David Button.

To help dispel further myths and worries, Rosedale are offering limited spaces for a behind the scenes tour at Earlham Crematorium where visitors will be able to see the cremation process first hand and see that yes, the coffin really does get cremated and yes, they really are your loved ones ashes that you get back.

Throughout both open days, Rosedale will be supporting the Dogs Trust and their Canine Care card which allows owners to register their dogs to be left to the Dog Trust in the event of the owner’s death.

The one on one session with the Solicitors are limited as is the availability of the tour to Earlham Crematorium. If you wish to

reserve either please can you contact Attleborough on 01953 452 538 or Wymondham on 01953 601103.

Attleborough Open day will be 22nd January 10.30-3.30 Wymondham Open day will 29th January 10.30-3.30

Norfolk & Suffolk Power Flushing Any of these symptoms in my advert could indicate that your central heating system has problems from internal corrosion, rust, sludge and scale.

A power flush can restore circulation and efficiency to your central heating system by removing these products.

The process involves connecting a power flushing pump to the existing central heating pump valves, or across the tails of a radiator.

Specialist chemicals are then pumped around the heating system to loosen and mobilise the unwanted debris.

Each radiator is then individually flushed until clean and on completion, an inhibitor is added to prevent further corrosion. The whole process is carried out with minimal disturbance and disruption.

For more information or for a free no obligation quote, ring Paul on (01508) 532671 or 07879 414197.

Or alternatively go to www.suffolkpowerflushing.co.uk.

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HOMES & GARDENS 13

An Opportunity For The New Year...

A Quick Story which just might help you and your business!

Back in 2005 I bought a small traditional business and set about turning it around and growing it. For 6 years, the business was pure aggravation, full of constant problems, negativity, staff difficulties, out sourcing dilemmas, accounts issues etc.

Almost every day I wonder why I was putting so much effort in, when it was just aggravation that I was getting back. This appears to be the case with most small businesses today.

2 years ago, I was introduced to an opportunity via a businessman who became a very close friend. An opportunity which changed my life, my outlook and also my small business, which I have now gown and expanded.

The businessman asked me: Jonathan how much extra money per month would make a difference to you right now?

and implemented the feedback I was given that I absolutely would earn £200.00 per month starting that very month, AND as the opportunity was residual income based, if I duplicated what I did every month the £200.00 per month would turn into £400.00 per month then £600 per month and so on!

I was staggered! I’d never seriously considered what a Residual income was.

But here I was, sat with someone who’d been there and done it and he was 100% certain that I could do it too.

At the time I had no experience whatsoever, but I had a passion for personal development and a hunger to learn and develop my skills. I figured, if I could master the art and learn from someone who had already cracked it, then one day Id be able to repeat what my friend was showing me.

£200.00 per month I answered.

He then went on to explain that if I followed his instructions, worked hard,

In the 12 months that followed, during my spare time, I achieved my original goal and some!

And it was all possible thanks to the incredible amount of high-quality training and support I was given for FREE! The decision to take the opportunity has changed my life forever, and the massive amount of training and personal development has also enabled me to build my original business which used to be pure aggravation. Today I have managed to grow and expand it far and beyond what I thought was possible.

Now, 2 years later, I’m looking to pay it forward and give another person the very same opportunity I was given.

As part of the rapid growth of my business Iím looking to recruit a couple of people (yes, we actually have too many highquality leads for one person to manage on their own, and we’re losing money because we can’t cope with the demand!)

These people will work closely alongside me and my team in the coming months and get what I believe is the very best training available when it comes to

growing a business in our industry.

Now, I’ll tell you up front this is going to be hard work!

But, I GUARENTEE the right person WILL easily earn £200.00 per month (and probably more).

So, do you know anyone who might be interested?

Ideally I’m looking for someone who gets our industry. They don’t need any experience (remember I had zero when I started out) but they do need to be hungry, keen to learn, and willing to work hard!

If you know anyone who might be a good fit (or indeed you think you might be!) please send an up to date CV via email to jon@thanhorswell.com and we’ll be in touch.

Contact: Jonathan Email: Jon@thanHorswell.com Tel: 07802 690589

January 2014

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FOOD & DRINK 15

A Very British Addiction Forget cigarettes, alcohol and even drugs, there is a new addiction sweeping the nation - snackoholism.

We were brought up being told not to eat between meals but now it seems that we literally can’t help helping ourselves, with four per of Brits admitting to being addicted to snacking and finding it impossible to quit.

A survey by Diet Chef has uncovered some shocking truths about British snacking behaviour - not least that more than one in 10 of us would rather snack than have sex.

And it seems our need to snack is taking over our lives as six per cent of us even admit to snacking in bed.

A third of us would rather give up alcohol than snacks and 13% of smokers said they’d rather kick their nicotine habit than give up chocolate, biscuits and crisps.

As a nation, the number of snacks we are consuming has reached colossal proportions. Our snack of choice is crisps - 61% of Brits admit to eating at least one packet a day and some scoff as many as five or six.

This equates to a staggering 48 million packets of crisps being consumed every day by the UK’s adult population. Add to this 45 million chocolate bars and the 78 million biscuits and cakes we eat every day and it is no wonder we have an obesity crisis.

One in 10 of the people surveyed have either a burger, a pizza or a portion of chips as a snack every day, showing we no longer understand the difference between a snack and a meal. Yet only 14% of the people surveyed knew how many calories something as basic as an average portion of chips contained.

Diet Chef’s nutritionist Caron Leckie says: “Our survey shows the extent to which snacking has got out of control. Most of the people we surveyed said they snack out of habit or boredom, which shows people are eating without thinking, not out of necessity.

“It can be difficult to curb or change snacking habits as there are many different components involved -

sometimes we snack out of hunger, boredom, cravings or just pure habit.

Identifying our snacking ways and preparing ourselves is the first step to snacking success.”

Caron’s 10 steps to avoiding snacking: * Identify what - Keeping a food diary can help you identify your snacking reality. * Identify where - Once you know what your snacks are, you need to consider where you are most likely to snack - then clear out your snack stash. * Identify when - Knowing when you snack can reveal the trigger. When you’ve sussed out your snacking patterns, you’re ready to confront them. * Find a healthier alternative - Try a low calorie chocolate drink instead of chocolate or popcorn instead of crisps. * Distract yourself - Occupy your mind with other things - go for a walk, phone a

friend, get busy cleaning or ironing, read a book, take a bath, paint your nails etc to get your mind off those treats. * Avoid tricky situations - Take a packed lunch to work to avoid the temptation of shops, and cut back on tea or coffee if you usually have biscuits too. * Cut the portions - You can make anything instantly healthier by cutting the portions - this way you get a little of what you fancy, just in a smaller package. * Fill up on fruit and veg - Aim for at least 5 a day, so if you feel yourself reaching for a snack, make it fruits or vegetables instead. * Make small changes - If you deprive yourself of everything that you like and that is habitual, it’s much harder, and is likely to end in a cycle of deprivation and bingeing. * Don’t forget drinks - Whether it’s a fizzy drink, orange juice or the mid-morning caramel latte - they add up!

Leek & Potato Soup The perfect warmer for those cold winter evenings Ingredients • 50g butter • 450g potatoes, peeled and cut into 1cm pieces (try Golden Wonders or Kerr Pinks) • 1 small onion, cut the same size as the potatoes • 450g white parts of leeks, sliced (save the green tops for another soup or stock) • 850ml-1.2litres/1½-2pts light chicken or vegetable stock • 142ml carton whipping cream • 125ml full-fat milk To Finish • the white part of 1 leek • a small knob of butter • finely chopped chives Method 1. Melt the butter in a heavy saucepan.

When it foams, add the potatoes, onion and leeks and toss them in the butter until they are well coated. Season well with salt and freshly ground pepper and toss again. Put a disc of greaseproof paper (called a cartouche by chefs) on top of the vegetables to keep in the steam),

then cover the pan with its lid. Cook over a gentle heat for 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft but not coloured.

2. Uncover the pan and discard the paper. Pour in 850ml/11⁄2 pints of the stock, bring to the boil and simmer until the vegetables are just cooked – about 5 minutes. Do not overcook or the soup will lose its fresh flavour.

3. Purée in a blender until silky smooth, in batches if necessary, then taste and adjust the seasoning. Return the soup to a clean pan and stir in three quarters of the cream and all of the milk.

4. To finish the soup, finely shred the white leek and gently cook it in the hot butter for a few minutes until it is softened but not coloured. Reheat the soup to a gentle simmer (add some extra stock at this point if the soup is too thick for your liking), then pour into warmed bowls.

Drizzle the remaining cream over each serving, top with a little pile of buttered leeks and a scattering of chives and black pepper and serve at once.

January 2014

16 HEALTH & WELLBEING

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15 Tips To Restart The Exercise Habit (And How To Keep It) It’s okay, you can finally admit it. It’s been two months since you’ve seen the inside of the gym. Getting sick, family crisis, overtime at work and school papers that needed to get finished all kept you for exercising. Now, the question is: how do you start again?

Once you have an exercise habit, it becomes automatic. You just go to the gym, there is no force involved. But after a month, two months or possibly a year off, it can be hard to get started again.

Here are some tips to climb back on that treadmill after you’ve fallen off.

it a habit. There are thousands of ways you can move your body and exercise, so don’t give up if you’ve decided lifting weights or doing crunches isn’t for you.

Many large fitness centers will offer a range of programs that can suit your tastes.

Don’t Break the Habit – The easiest way to keep things going is simply not to stop. Avoid long breaks in exercising or rebuilding the habit will take some effort.

This may be advice a little too late for some people. But if you have an exercise habit going, don’t drop it at the first sign of trouble.

Schedule During Quiet Hours – Don’t put exercise time in a place where it will easily be pushed aside by something more important. Right after work or first thing in the morning are often good places to put it. Lunch-hour workouts might be too easy to skip if work demands start mounting.

Reward Showing Up – Woody Allen once said that, “Half of life is showing up.” I’d argue that 90% of making a habit is just making the effort to get there. You can worry about your weight, amount of laps you run or the amount you can bench press later.

Get a Buddy – Grab a friend to join you.

Having a social aspect to exercising can boost your commitment to the exercise habit.

Commit for Thirty Days – Make a commitment to go every day (even just for 20 minutes) for one month. This will solidify the exercise habit. By making a commitment you also take pressure off yourself in the first weeks back of deciding whether to go.

Make it Fun – If you don’t enjoy yourself at the gym, it is going to be hard to keep

January 2014

X Your Calendar – One person I know has the habit of drawing a red “X” through any day on the calendar he goes to the gym. The benefit of this is it quickly shows how long it has been since you’ve gone to the gym. Keeping a steady amount of X’s on your calendar is an easy way to motivate yourself.

Enjoyment Before Effort - After you finish any work out, ask yourself what parts you enjoyed and what parts you did not.

As a rule, the enjoyable aspects of your

workout will get done and the rest will be avoided. By focusing on how you can make workouts more enjoyable, you can make sure you want to keep going to the gym.

Create a Ritual - Your workout routine should become so ingrained that it becomes a ritual. This means that the time of day, place or cue automatically starts you towards grabbing your bag and heading out. If your workout times are completely random, it will be harder to benefit from the momentum of a ritual.

Stress Relief - What do you do when your stressed? Chances are it isn’t running.

But exercise can be a great way to relieve stress, releasing endorphin which will improve your mood. The next time you feel stressed or tired, try doing an exercise you enjoy. When stress relief is linked to exercise, it is easy to regain the habit even after a leave of absence.

Measure Fitness - Weight isn’t always the best number to track. Increase in muscle can offset decreases in fat so the scale doesn’t change even if your body is. But fitness improvements are a great way to stay motivated. Recording simple numbers such as the number of pushups, sit-ups or speed you can run can help you see that the exercise is making you stronger and faster.

Habits First, Equipment Later – Fancy equipment doesn’t create a habit for exercise. Despite this, some people still believe that buying a thousand dollar machine will make up for their inactivity.

It won’t. Start building the exercise habit first, only afterwards should you worry about having a personal gym.

Isolate Your Weakness - If falling off the exercise wagon is a common occurrence for you, find out why. Do you not enjoy exercising? Is it a lack of time? Is it feeling self-conscious at the gym? Is it a lack of fitness knowhow? As soon as you can isolate your weakness, you can make steps to improve the situation.

Start Small - Trying to run fifteen miles your first workout isn’t a good way to build a habit. Work below your capacity for the first few weeks to build the habit.

Otherwise you might scare yourself off after a brutal workout.

Go for Yourself, Not to Impress – Going to the gym with the only goal of looking great is like starting a business with only the goal to make money. The effort can’t justify the results. But if you go to the gym to push yourself, gain energy and have a good time, then you can keep going even when results are slow.

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HEALTH & WELLBEING 17

12 Tips For Healthier Skin And Hair This Winter The cold temperatures and bracing winds of winter can take its toll on our skin and hair, follow our guide to look and feel healthier.

1. Dry Face It’s unfortunate (but unavoidable) that the body’s most sensitive skin is always exposed to the elements.

Definitely take some time this winter to give your mug a little extra lovin’.

First things first: During winter, avoid any face products with alcohol, and switch to a milder face wash and a thicker moisturizer. Need to mix up the routine a bit? Wash your face once a week with Greek yogurt. It sounds weird, but the lactic acid works as a gentle, non-abrasive exfoliator.

2. Red Nose After coming indoors the blood vessels dilate quickly, causing a rush of blood (and bright-red color). To bring the nose back to a normal hue, apply a warm — but not hot — pad to the skin for several minutes after coming indoors. When the sniffles hit, use extra-soft tissues and blot the nose.

Do not rub it. Apply a thin layer of moisturizing ointment or lotion to the sensitive area throughout the day.

3. Itchy Dry Scalp Step one in preventing dandruff is to take cooler, quicker showers to reduce the scalp’s exposure to drying hot water. Think about switching to a dandruff or dry scalp specific

shampoo. Before hopping in the shower, massage the scalp with Vitamin E, olive, or coconut oil. These oils replenish natural scalp oils and can moisturize dry hair, too.

4. Chapped Lips Keeping a tube of lip balm in an easily accessible pocket is a good first step, but winter winds can take chapped lips to a completely new level. If lips are flaky, take a clean toothbrush and very gently exfoliate the skin to remove excess skin. Slather on beeswax and keep reapplying throughout the day.

5. Rough Hair Shampooing strips moisture from the scalp and hair, so wash strands every other day. Everyone’s hair is different — if washing once or twice a week is normal for you, consider adding some time between shampoos to consider dry winter conditions. Skipping the shampoo, opting for a quick rinse and conditioning treatment works just fine to keep hair clean and moisturized.

6. Dry hands Cracked and painful skin on the hands is the icing on the cake. To prevent hands from drying out, apply moisturizer after hand washing and at

least several times throughout the day.

Keep a bottle of lotion by each sink in your home and in your desk at work. If hands are very dry, use cream instead of lotion because the former has a higher oil-to-water ratio.

7. Irritated, Dry Eyes Wind and dry air are not a good combination for sensitive eyes.

Sporting sunnies on a sub-zero day might look weird, but the lenses can protect eyes from glare and wind.

Keep a bottle of non-medicated saline tears or eye drops on hand and use it to refresh eye moisture when needed.

Prevent irritation by keeping those well-moisturized hands away from the eye area.

8. Scaly Elbows The skin over high-pressure joints like elbows, knees, and heels is thicker to cushion the essential bones underneath. It’s great to have some extra padding, but ashy, scaly elbows are uncomfortable and unattractive.

The key to keeping elbows (and other rough spots) soft is to exfoliate once or twice per week and moisturize every day. Combine a scoop of sugar, a few glugs of olive oil and a drizzle of lemon juice to make a quick scrub.

9. Brittle Nails Dry air saps the moisture right out of nails, leaves them delicate and susceptible to breaks. To treat them, apply olive oil or lotion containing lanolin to nails before bed and sleep with gloves on to help aid absorption.

11. Windburn Protect sensitive skin by layering on thick face cream with a high SPF — the only thing worse than windburn is winter sunburn. If red windburn patches don’t go away, apply a thin layer of one-percent hydrocortisone cream on irritated spots as needed.

This medicated cream contains steroids that reduce inflammation and stop itching in its tracks.

12. Rough and Cracked Feet Nothing screams “dead of winter” like gnarly, callused feet with cracked heels. Save some cash and skip the pedicure by exfoliating and moisturizing at home.

Scrub calluses with a pumice stone in the shower once per week to slough off rough, dead skin. Moisturize feet, especially the heels, every day with thick cream — lotions containing lactic acid are especially effective — and wear cotton socks to bed.

January 2014

18 ELDERLY

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South Norfolk Mobilty Centre

Manorcourt Daycare ...is a community based 7 hour care centre; it is set in a detached building within the village location of Griston close to the market town of Watton, in the Breckland district of Norfolk.

May we wish everyone a very Happy New Year!

We hope that you have enjoyed the festive season. We open on 7th January, so if you have been thinking to come and see us, then weather permitting, please do! We stock all kinds of daily care aids; shower stools, pill bottle grips & cutlery, to name a few!

we can help with something simple like a folding walking stick, or four wheel walker with seat, zimmer frame, or tri walker. We have an excellent range of new and second hand mobility scooters, both for pavement and road use. Don’t forget to visit us at: www.southnorfolkmobilitycentre.co.uk

Manorcourt Daycentre specializes in a service for individuals aged 50+ who require time out at an independent facility which allows individuals the freedom to be an independent person within their own right.

Our goal is to provide a high quality and flexible 7 hour therapeutic day-care service for those individuals who currently live within the community but it is also a service for those individuals who have a caring role to play and need a reliable support system which allows them as a carer, time out from their caring role.

The service is staffed by trained staff that uses therapeutic activities with the primary goal of supporting self expression and communication; it provides a social and enjoyable day out from home, it’s the perfect opportunity for individuals and staff to make new friends and enjoy regular social interaction. The aim of Manorcourt Daycare is to promote a high standard of service which promotes independence at all times and one which recognizes the unique value every

January 2014

person has. Within this we encourage the building of positive relationships with the individual, their family and friends. We work closely with outside agencies, the individual’s doctor’s surgeries, social services and other relevant agencies.

Since the day centre was first developed it has changed consistently with the care needs of it users; from relocating to a purpose building in 2004, a gradual development of dementia services and now in 2013 we will be developing the service further by offering a extended sensory garden, a 1950’s style living room for enablement and dementia services and refurbished hairdressing facilities.

Alongside these new developments we will be offering an outreach /signposting service for those who do not wish to take up the opportunities with the centre.

For more infomation Call: 01953 889230 or email: daycentre@manorcourtcare.co.uk

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ELDERLY 19

Winter Activities for the Elderly Keeping active is important for all ages and proven to benefit us physically, mentally and emotionally Whilst keeping active during the spring and summer months is relatively easy, winter can often present challenges to our usual routines. For elderly people keeping active in winter can be extremely difficult, particularly when bad weather and dark evenings can make travelling difficult or even unsafe.

However, they are a variety of ways elderly people can overcome the obstacles presented by winter and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle during winter months. Although outdoor physical activity can be difficult, gyms and local leisure centres provide affordable ways of maintaining physical fitness in a safe and warm environment throughout winter.

Many offer fitness courses, which extend right through winter as well as weekly group classes specifically aimed at older members.

Gyms typically offer a range of social activities and clubs which members can join in order to increase their fitness and socialise with other members. This can be ideal for older people who wish to

maintain or improve their physical fitness but are unable to do so outdoors during cold winter months.

time and there are varied tasks to ensure people with varying abilities are able to take part.

In addition to maintaining physical health, it is essential that elderly people take care of their mental and emotional health. The short days and long evenings can leave many feeling isolated and some people struggle to undertake day-to-day activities if weather is particularly bad.

For elderly people who take a keen interest in gardening, winter need not mean the end of their gardening activities.

Those with access to a greenhouse can continue to cultivate plants whilst those without can still grow window boxes or prepare bulbs for the next season.

Enabling elderly people to modify their usual activities so as they can continue throughout winter is a great way of

Fortunately, many groups and community services cater for individuals who may need additional assistance during winter.

For example, some community support services will assist with shopping or travel requirements for elderly people who may need a little extra help.

ensuring they are able to remain active and agile throughout the winter.

There are a number of classes and groups that welcome elderly people; many which are specifically aimed at the unique requirements of the older generation.

Many of these offer support with travelling for people who may struggle to attend without assistance. By accessing these services, elderly people are able to maintain their activities and ensure they are able to continue to socialise and remain active throughout the winter.

Elderly people can also undertake a variety of activities throughout winter to stay mentally and physically engaged.

Festivities taking place throughout winter means there is many opportunities to volunteer in organizing or arranging local or family events. Many charities require additional volunteers throughout this

January 2014

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Give us a call on our funeral plan advice line 0800 0744 361* to find out more eastofengland.coop/plans * Free from a landline, mobile charges can vary.

Lines open Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm.

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MOTORING Review 21

Mitsubishi L200 2.5 Double Cab Barbarian Auto IT TRIGGERS traffic turmoil, shuts schools and closes down factories. But, conversely, the Artic weather that goes with the UK’s winter tends to set the cash registers ringing in dealerships.

You see, many motorists, especially those who need to keep businesses running, will now be eying up 4x4s for their ice and snow beating skills.

Mitsubishi’s L200 Double Cab is one to definitely test drive – especially if an indestructible workhorse is what you need.

In Barbarian guise the L200 Double Cab is practical, comfortable and, with all-wheel-drive ability, it will get you on and off mud-ridden building sites or farm fields with absolute ease. Not only that, the pick-up does what it says on the tin – it will be your best buddy when it comes to collecting loads and, when the cargo area is full, it is the perfect vehicle for dragging a weighed down trailer around.

The L200’s looks are not bad either. It is mean and handsome – in a coarse sort of way. The double cab means there is enough room for four-up, so

when the Barbarian is not engaged with off road activities or hauling heavy-duty merchandise around, it is a usable main motor, especially kitted out with a luscious leather interior and an automatic transmission.

Rapidity, although it is not the first thing you think about when you buy a pick-up, is not an issue on the L200. There is a reason for this: the Japanese-made vehicle has 173 horses under its bonnet and enough pulling power to yank a tree stump out of the ground (well, probably!).

The result is that the Mitsubishi picks up pace like an angry rhino – even with its easy going, but rather old fashioned, five speed auto gearbox.

And when it gets to its limit it is a raging road-train. Good job, then, that the Barbarian has first class brakes to scrub off any excessive get-upand-go.

The mighty Mitsubishi is classed as a commercial vehicle – so it is an affordable alternative for outdoorsy business types who demand resilience, versatility and performance. It will also work as the family car – so it is a win win situation – especially if you need a motor with grip when the white stuff comes down.

• Max. towing weight (braked) 2700 kg • CO2: 233 g/km • Price: £23,249 + VAT on the road

By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist. Tweet him @carwriteups

PROS ‘N’ CONS • Rugged √ • 4x4 capability √ • Pulling power √ • Cabin √ • Old fashioned auto ‘box X FAST FACTS • Max speed: 109 mph • 0-60 mph: 13.0 secs • Combined mpg: 32.1 (unladen) • Engine: 2477 cc 4 cylinder 16 valve turbo diesel • Max. power (bhp): 173 at 4000 rpm • Max. torque (lb/ft): 268 at 1800 rpm

January 2014

22 MOTORING

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End Of The Road For Motorsport Marshals The Tax Disc

Would you like to get closer to motorsport? Try out a day as a marshal!

What is a marshal?

Chancellor abolishes the car tax disc From October 2014 motorists will no longer have to display their road tax disc in the windscreen of their vehicles. Even though the paper disc is to be scrapped motorists will still be paying Vehicle Excise Duty but the treasury claims that there will also be savings of £20 million for Britain’s hard-pressed motorists as a result of changes to the way car tax can be paid.

The number of windscreens checked for tax discs by officers has dropped 75 per cent in the last five years, thanks to the electronic vehicle register that is used by both traffic police and the DVLA. A police source said ‘the tax disc is no longer needed for enforcement purposes, the police use numberplate recognition equipment. If they pull you over they can immediately tap into this database and see whether the car is taxed and insured and what the driver ought to look like.’

Officials said that both the police and the Post Office have ‘indicated their support’ for the abolition of the tax disc. But it is thought that some sub-postmasters could suffer as they rely on customers renewing their car tax. The online process is already in action so drivers can renew online.

Road tax is calculated based on the carbon emissions of the vehicle, there are thirteen different bands with annual duties ranging from £0 to £490 and even up to £1,065 for gas guzzlers in their first year on the road.

January 2014

One thing which will most definitely be a plus for motorists will be the choice of paying the vehicle excise duty by monthly direct debit. It is always a bill that has had to be paid in full and on time so this will be a welcome addition.

It will also be cheaper to pay for a six month period due to a 10 per cent surcharge it can currently cost £55 for a half-year disc or £100 for a year.

Under the reforms, the charge will be reduced from 10 to 5 per cent, reducing an identical six-month period to £52.50.

Paying monthly will also attract a 5 per cent rather than a 10 per cent charge.

Vehicle tax was introduced in the 1888 budget and the current system of excise duty applying specifically to motor vehicles was introduced in 1920. The tax disc was introduced in 1921, with a plain design of black ink on grey paper which drivers had to cut out themselves. Colour was introduced in 1923.

A Treasury spokesman said ‘this is a visual symbol of how we are moving government into the modern age and making dealing with government more hassle free.’ So the paper tax disc will become something of the past, together with so many others, will we miss it probably not, might be worth holding on to one just for a memento!

A motorsport marshal carries out a wide range of duties, all of which contribute to the overall efficiency and success of a motorsport event, whether that is a race, rallying or speed (sprinting and hill-climbing) event. It is a voluntary role, and vital to the organisation of motorsport within the UK. Why become a marshal?

It’s an exciting way of getting involved in motorsport. You get into events free, learn new skills, meet new people and make new friends, help others, watch the action with the best view possible, and have a great day out. Your contribution is appreciated and recognised by everyone involved, including the organising clubs and competitors. As a marshal, you join a band of enthusiasts who enjoy motorsport and, through active marshalling clubs, an interesting social life.

What qualifications and training do I need?

No qualifications are required, just a willingness to get involved, have fun and learn what it’s all about. To be a full marshal you have to be 16 or above, but there’s also opportunities for under 16’s to become involved as a cadet marshal.

Training is provided by motorsport clubs, marshal clubs and the Motor Sport Association (MSA). If you already have special skills, such a technical skills, mechanical, rescue, vehicle recovery, medical, first aid or administration, you may wish to use those skills in your role as a marshal.

What time commitment is involved?

There’s no minimum requirement beyond attending appropriate training, so it’s up to you. Some people notch up 70 or more days marshalling each year, at home and abroad, others might just do the occassional weekend.

Can I just work locally or do I have to travel?

Again, it’s entirely up to you. Many marshals choose to work at their local race circuit or other nearby motorsport locations, whereas others are happy to travel around the country.

How do I find out more and get started?

There’s more information available via: www.marshals.co.uk www.volunteersinmotorsport.co.uk www.msauk.org

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DISPATCH BUSINESS DIRECTORY 23

January 2014