Staffordshire Outlook April/May 2020 by Staffordshire Outlook

April/May 2020

Great Prizes to be won inside this issue: Win two Premium Season Passes for Alton Towers Resort Win a pair of tickets to Bang Bang at the Grand Theatre Win a pair of tickets to The Solihull Summer Fest Win a family ticket to The Staffordshire County Show

Delivered to: Acton Trussell, Beaconside, Castlefields, Great Haywood, Gnosall, Haughton, Hixon, Little Haywood, Moss Pit, Parkside, Penkridge, Rowley Park and Western Downs

Local Magazine delivered to 20,000 selected Homes and Businesses*

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Tech Aluminium Systems Limited, Unit 10 Rumer Hill Business Estate, Rumer Hill Road, Cannock, Staffordshire WS11 0ET T: 01543 467272 E: admin@techalum.co.uk www.techalumsystems.co.uk Images on this page are recent projects.

A Message From the Editor

from the winners of the great prizes they have won in the magazine.

Hello readers,

Don’t forget to enter the fantastic competitions in this edition; including 2 Premium Season passes for Alton Towers Resort, a pair of tickets to Solihull Summer Fest, a pair of tickets to Bang Bang at the Grand Theatre and a family ticket to The Staffordshire County Show. You could be one of the lucky winners, good luck!

Welcome to the April/May edition of the Staffordshire Outlook magazine. Here at the Staffordshire Outlook, we are celebrating our 8th anniversary this month! We are so grateful to all of the clients who continue to advertise their business and to the readers for contributing to the Staffordshire Outlook Magazine’s popularity and success. Here’s to another 8 years! British summer time has begun, and we can all look forward to the light night’s drawing in and hopefully some dry weather! There are many new advertisers in this edition including Britannia Pine if you want new furniture for your home, Award Electrical if you are looking for a reliable electrician, and Green Thumb Stafford if you want your lawn looking great! All this inside and much more.

We hope that our readers will use these reputable companies that advertise, when the need arises, and don’t forget to mention Staffordshire Outlook if using any of the advertisers! If you are a business owner and would like to be featured in the Staffordshire Outlook magazine then please contact us on the details below. If you belong to a local group or charity and would like forthcoming events published in this magazine please email info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk

The winners from the February/March edition are below. Congratulations to all the winners and thank you to everyone who entered. We continue to have some lovely comments

Congratulations to: Winner of a pair of tickets to The Overtones at the Victoria Hall Robert Lane, Gnosall

Winner of a pair of tickets for Curtains at the Grand Theatre Nicky Hannett, Hixon

Winner of a family ticket to West Midland Safari Park Kate Smith, Stafford

Staffordshire Outlook Magazine Ltd

Tel: 01952 321334 Staffordshire Outlook Magazine is published by Staffordshire Outlook Magazine Limited www.staffordshireoutlook.co.uk Advertising enquiries

Sharon Caldwell - Sales Director

Email: sharon@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk Editorial/What’s on information Myrna Caldwell – Editor

Email: info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk Magazine design:

Kate Hedley - Graphic Designer

Email: design@etakcreative.co.uk

Myrna

Enjoy your read …..

Contents

Midland Independent 4/5 Shugborough Estate 6 Win tickets for the Grand Theatre 8 CHAPS 10 Carvers 14 Shield Roller Garage Doors 16 Puzzles 18 Staffordshire Outlook 8th birthday 22 Britannia Pine 24 Daniel Wynn Interiors 26 Lowes Building & Maintenance 27 Midland Water Softeners 28 Tech Aluminum Systems Ltd 30 Roofix 31 The Staffordshire County Show 32 Green Thumb 33 Thousands of fabulous plants 34 Standeford Garden 35 Paint Wizard 35 Linwoods Trade Supplies 36 Local Farm wins award 37 Cannock Rotary Midland Air Ambulance 37 Award Electrical 38 New response car 42 Stafford Chess club 42 Popular children’s market returns 43 Alton Towers 44 Tracy Mason Travel 46 Taylor Biddle 48 Recipe 50 La Minky 52 Solihull Fest 2020 56 Smilecrafters 57 VE Celebrations Penkridge 58 Sue Starr 59 Your body, your rules 60 Simon Hobbs Vein Clinic 61 Ford Focus ST Estate by Rob Taylor 62 Suzuki Jimmy by Rob Taylor 63 What are Lasting Powers of Attorney 64 Index of advertisers 65 Puzzle Solutions 65 Weatherdry Insulations 66

We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Staffordshire Outlook magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert or editorial. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Staffordshire Outlook magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication maybe reproduced, stored in any retrieval system of transmitted in any form – electronic, mechanical, photo copying or otherwise – without the prior consent of Staffordshire Outlook magazine.*total distribution 20,000 copies across two months.

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advertisement feature

LandLords

facIng tax Increases

I have a great number of clients who have, over the years, purchased property to let and to maximise returns through gearing taken a buy to let mortgage. This was a great way to hold a property portfolio as all mortgage interest payments were tax deductible. However, in 2016, we saw the implementation of some new tax rules that meant over the next four years, the amount of mortgage interest which could be offset from rental profit reduces. In this current tax year (2019/2020), landlords can offset 25 per cent of their mortgage interest from their rental profit. From April 2020, this reduces to zero. There is a tax credit relief available based on basic rate tax however landlords will have to pay income tax on all of the rental income

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

they receive meaning that many of them will pay more tax.

payments and still yield a generous profit to the landlord.

This new tax rule is going to change the landscape of the buy-to-let market.

A private landlord would typically complete a tax return each year and on it they would detail the income from their property portfolio and then detail all of their expenditures such as management fees and repairs, along with other expenses including the mortgage interest.

How it normally works For example, let’s say a landlord has five properties in their buy-to-let portfolio. The properties are worth about £700,000 in total however there are 5 lots of £100,000 interest-only mortgages, a total of £500,000. Let’s say the interest rate on each buy-to-let mortgage is 3%. The total interest-only mortgage payments each month would be £1,249 or £14,988 each year. Let’s say the income received on each property is £600 each month - in total this is £3,000 each month or £36,000 each year. Clearly we can see that despite the large amount of mortgage debt and mortgage payments that need to be paid, the rental income will fund these mortgage

Income tax on the rental income profit is then charged at the normal rate of income tax. But as you can guess, from April 2020, many private landlords with buy-to-let mortgages will simply pay more income tax on their rental income. With this same example, let’s say the interest charged on those buyto-let properties goes up to 6%. (I would imagine most people reading this would have experienced paying something close to that rate at some point in the past). In my example scenario, the mortgage interest payments would increase to £2,501 each month or £30,012 each year.

This scenario looks a lot less attractive for a landlord. If they cannot offset interest-only mortgage payments from their rental income profit, this will result in significantly lower returns and then they will inevitably have to consider alternative options.

How will landlords adapt? Let’s say a landlord runs their property business through a company rather than as a private venture; would these new tax changes I mentioned above apply? The answer is no.

On the flip side companies do not have a capital gains tax (CGT) allowance so, when the property is eventually sold, corporation tax is paid on all the gain whereas individuals have an annual allowance this year of £12,000 so a couple owning a property jointly can make a gain of £24,000 with zero tax liability. My opinion is that for many years property has been seen by many as the “go to” investment however moving forward I no longer think this will be the case.

If a company owns the property portfolio then the tax which is paid on the profit of the business is corporation tax. At the moment, the corporation tax rate is 19% however this is going to drop to 17% in the next tax year (2019/2020) making the idea of holding properties within a limited company or specifically a SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle) quite attractive. This is because a lot less tax will need to be paid which means a much greater net profit. I must caveat that any landlords who do decide to move their private property portfolio across to a SPV would need to take proper advice because there are lots of implications to consider including stamp duty, lending criteria for new mortgages and various other considerations. That said, at face value, it feels like these tax changes will nudge many landlords to move across to this type of model going forward.

If you would like more information or need advice on your specific circumstances please feel free to contact the author John Webb of Midland Independent financial services Limited on 01543 468877 or john.webb@ midlandifa.co.uk

John Webb

John Webb is a Chartered Financial Planner and a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society, the highest accolade designated by that organisation. The Personal Finance Society is the professional body for the Financial Advisory Profession in the United Kingdom, promoting the highest standards of technical knowledge, client service and ethical practice.

Midland Independent Financial Services is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Midland Independent Financial Services Ltd, 153 Avon Road, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 1LF. Telephone 01543 468877.

www.midlandifa.co.uk

Easter Fun & Fresh Air at Shugborough Estate

Shugborough Estate is the perfect place to visit with your friends and family this spring. Whether you’re looking for a quick breath of fresh air, or a full day of fun with the family, you can do it all at this National Trust property. With the site being open to the later hour of 6pm, and the reopening of the Georgian mansion, you’ll be able to embrace all that the season has to offer. Throughout the whole of April, there are a variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Sign up for tree climbing sessions on 7 or 14 April or try your hand at archery over Easter weekend, and continuing through the summer. Children can design their own creepy crawlies in the craft tent from 10 to 13 April, the most creative of which will feature in the May spring trail. If this wasn’t exciting enough, mini beast’s mansion making will be taking place on 15 April where children are invited to create homes for the mini beasts in their own gardens. The month continues with bumblebee safaris from 18 April and a dawn chorus walk on 26 April, giving you the chance to wake up with the feathered friends of Shugborough at first light. This all precedes the British Wildlife Photography Awards Exhibition which is at Shugborough from May 1.

The outdoors at Shugborough is the perfect place to enjoy to springtime beauty. The gardens will be blooming with their spring colour. See the sea of yellow daffodils scattered across the parkland, especially the carpet that appears by the river every year. Take a breath of fresh air or treat your four legged friend to a special walk. If you are a member, you can come

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

and enjoy our outdoor spaces with just the scan of your card. Wonder at the special collection inside the reopened mansion showing the life of the cultured Thomas and seafaring George Anson. Grab a timed ticket from reception and awe at the Apartment of the late Lord Lichfield, royal photographer. Don’t forget to stop by at one of the two tea rooms on the estate. Both serve hot and cold drinks, freshly baked cakes and biscuits, and some lovely warm meals. Step inside the Mansion Tea-room, perfectly located by the shop, and treat yourself to a larger lunch. Or, pop into Park Farm Café during your dog walks and grab a light bite and a warming hot chocolate, right in the heart of the farmyard. It’s a great place to stop and recharge your batteries and dogs are welcome inside. Pick up a raffle ticket for the Special Places Raffle at Visitor Reception on your way back to the car park and help fund the Tower of the Winds restoration project while giving yourself the chance to win up to £10,000. Staffordshire County Council gave back management of Shugborough Estate to the National Trust in November 2016, and the site has been open under the Trust since March 2017. This means that all members have to do is to scan their card for entrance to the entire Estate. The site is open year round, only closing on Christmas day. The National Trust is a conservation charity founded in 1895 by three people who saw the importance of our nation’s heritage and open spaces, and wanted to preserve them for everyone to enjoy. More than 120 years later, these values are still at the heart of everything the charity does. Entirely independent of Government, the National Trust looks after more than 250,000 hectares of countryside, 778 miles of coastline and hundreds of special places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Almost 27 million people visit every year, and together with more than 5.6 million members and over 65,000 volunteers, they help to support the charity in its work to care for special places for ever, for everyone.

ÂŠ National Trust 2020. Registered Charity no. 205846. Photography ÂŠ National Trust Images

Enjoy Easter at Shugborough Estate Visit Shugborough Estate this Easter for beautiful spring gardens, archery, tree climbing, nature trails, and craft tent activities. Bring the whole family along for a fun-filled day out.

nationaltrust.org.uk/shugborough-estate

Competition

One lucky winner can win a pair of tickets for BANG BANG on Tuesday 12 May at 7:30pm BANG BANG! a brand new comedy farce written by John Cleese heads to Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from Tuesday 12 – Saturday 16 May 2020, starting Tessa Peake-Jones, Tony Gardner and Wendi Peters.

When Leontine, a respectable society lady, discovers that she’s been hoodwinked by her husband, Duchotel, who’s always pretending to go hunting but really chasing after other ‘prey’, she vows to take revenge on the philanderer! But while Duchotel’s away, his lifelong friend comes calling – and he’s on the hunt too. Will Leontine get caught in his sights, or instead set a trap of her own? Secrets unravel as the devilish Duchotel finds himself snared in a door-slamming, trouser-dropping, balcony-climbing night of chaos set amidst the stylish apartments of Paris. Tessa Peake-Jones became a household name with her role as Raquel in the iconic comedy Only Fools and Horses. Her extensive stage work encompasses the National Theatre and RSC, recent credits include The Winslow Boy and Shirley Valentine. Tony Gardner first made his name in comedy as part of the award-winning comedy duo Struck off and Die. Since then he has appeared on TV in roles ranging from My Parents are Aliens to Last Tango in Halifax and on stage in Alan Ayckbourn’s classic Bedroom Farce. Wendi Peters is most widely known for her role as Cilla Battersby in Coronation Street but was most recently seen in the West End smash-hit musical BIG. Tickets for BANG BANG! from Tuesday 12 Saturday 16 May 2020 are now on sale. Tickets can be booked in person at the theatre, by calling 01902 42 92 12 or online at grandtheatre.co.uk. 8

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and email your answer to info@ staffordshireoutlook.co.uk with your name, address and telephone number to arrive by Thursday 30th April. Winner will be notified by telephone. Which TV show did Tessa Peake-Jones become a household name playing Raquel in?

A) Porridge B) Only Fools and Horses C) Some Mothers Do Ave Em D) Are You Being Served Competition Terms and Conditions Winner to collect tickets from the box office on the night of the performance Tuesday 12th May 2020 at 7.30pm. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash alternative prize nights available. Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity.

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National memorial Chase Arts for Public Spaces – CHAPS – had a great day at Lea Hall Social Club for the auction of mining memorabilia, organised by Erica’s of Albion Street, Rugeley. The group had a stand there to raise awareness of and fund raise for their latest project –a national memorial to all who worked in this country’s coal mines. The memorial, designed by Andy de Comyn, will be installed at the National Memorial Arboretum [NMA] situated in Alrewas, Staffordshire. The dedication is planned for June 2021; in the meantime members of CHAPS are working hard to spread the word far and near – and to raise the £100,000 needed for the memorial.

(Photo: Paul & Diane Ridgway with Jackie Prince)

(Photo: CHAPS display stand at mining memorabilia auction)

The auction was incredibly well attended by people from all over the country. They were all absolutely thrilled that at last miners are to be recognised nationally for the enormous part they played in the life of this country. Adults and children alike were very pleased to be able to contribute to the memorial; some bought plates from the fabulous collection so generously donated by Paul and Diane Ridgway. On the day, almost £750.00 was raised directly by CHAPS, it is understood that further donations are to be made to the project.

(Photo: Sheila Harding, Mike Mellor, Amanda Milling MP, all of CHAPS)

(Photo: Len Prince and Mike Mellor scrutinise a plate)

If you would like to donate you can do so at www.facebook. com/ChaseArtsForPublicSpaces or www.justgiving/ crowdfunding/chapsnationalminersmemorial. Bank transfers can be made directly to a designated bank account: HSBC Chaps National Miners Memorial; sort code: 40–47–11; account number 33901335 whilst cheques can be made payable to Chaps National Miners Memorial and sent to honorary treasurer Mr R Ford, 13 Sunny Bank Park, Sunny Bank, Lapley, ST19 9QH. 10 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

(Photo: CHAPS display stand at mining memorabilia auction)

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PLANNING YOUR NEW BATHROOM! The planning of a new bathroom can be a daunting prospect, particularly if you are taking on a big project or simply just don’t know where to start.

Let there be light ..

Bathroom lighting needs careful consideration, as this space is often used for a variety of purposes .. such as applying make up, shaving and late night trips to the bathroom. A good option would be to have several different levels of lighting, such as under mirror lighting, or a motion sensor option, which means no fumbling around for the light switch !

Styling it out ..

There are so many style options available when it comes to designing the look of your bathroom .. from the neutral palettes of contemporary, to the industrial look of ‘concrete chic’ and the bright, bold patterns of bright botanicals. Whatever look you go for, be sure to make most of the budget you have available and most importantly .. have fun with your design!

However, careful planning in the early stages can prevent costly mistakes later down the line.

Assessing your needs ..

By working out what sort of space you hope to achieve - from a relaxing spa-type haven, to a more practical and time saving wetroom, will enable you to think about what fixtures, fittings and colour scheme to go for. Thinking about ideas you have seen and experiences you have had will enable you to visualise your new scheme and how you would like to use it.

Planning a layout ..

Don’t change something that isn’t broken. If your current scheme works for you, then keep it ! This will also save on costs, as moving pipework and new layouts can be an expensive option. If you do want a complete new layout, then measure your bathroom carefully, noting doors, windows and pipework. A visit to your local bathroom showroom is a good idea, as they have designers on hand with bundles of experience, who will help you make the most of the space you have available.

Use of space ..

We all want to make the most of the space we have, but if your bathroom is only tiny, it would be safe to say the his and hers sink option should be ruled out ! Cramming in additional fittings, will only make the space available feel smaller. Researching products is the best way to find out what is available, such as a vanity basin unit with additional storage underneath for towels and toiletries or a mirrored cabinet, as a place to store toothbrushes and soaps is a good space saving option. Or, you might have the opposite problem and have oodles of space .. in which case, you can put the his and hers sink option back on the list !

16 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

Carvers bathroom showrooms are open to everyone and their team of knowledgeable staff are on hand to make sure you get the most out of the space you have available. Whatever your requirements, from wetrooms and ensuites, right through to a fully project managed design service with bespoke furniture. Carvers have it all, with bathroom suites from only £189.99 including VAT and a full range of taps, showers, cloakroom sets and accessories. A full design and installation service and a ‘buy now, pay later’ option are also available. Carvers are also fortunate to have specialists on hand at their Littles Lane site, including ..

Tile Choice, who offer a huge selection of floor and wall tiles to compliment any room in your house.

Dixons Decorating, have all manner of decorating materials, specialist paints, wallpapers and a full paint mixing service.

Rayton Electrical, boast a full range of feature lighting and electrical supplies. Carvers is the complete one stop shop and is open Monday to Friday 7.00am – 4.50pm and from 7.30am on Saturdays. For more information contact Carvers on : 01902 577090 or log on to : www.carvers.co.uk Make the most of the space you have available

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Buff up (6) Equality (6) Throw (4) Used by trains (8) Tangled (7) Dizzy (5) Frighten (5) Laughed (7) Fuel (8) Applaud (4) Light wind (6) Hug (6) Pillar (6) Cash register (4) Agitated (7) Ruin (5) Fighting (8) Remained (6) Revenue (8) Without sound (7) Seats (6) Authorise (6) Repaired (5) Surrender (4)

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Across 7 Buff up (6)

16 Seats (6)

18 Authorise (6) SUDOKU

8 Equality (6) 9 Throw (4)

10 Used by trains (8)

19 Repaired (5)

21 Surrender (4)

11 Tangled (7)

PICTOGRAMS Pictograms 5 words DOCTOR, DOCTOR... U

13 Dizzy (5) 15 Frighten (5) 17 Laughed (7) 20 Fuel (8) 21 Applaud (4)

3 words

MAPOOLEN

22 Light wind (6) 23 Hug (6) Down

Puzzle solutions on Page 64

1 Pillar (6)

2 Cash register (4) 3 Agitated (7) 18

4 Ruin (5) STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020 5 Fighting (8)

5 words

ICEBERG

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 19

Clair’s Composite Doors is a family

run business that specialises in high-

end Composite doors. Our brand new

showroom is located in the picturesque village of Penkridge.

At Clair’s Composite Doors we have both the knowledge and expertise to handle both the supply and installation of your composite door. We provide a complete service, from initial quote to delivery and fitting of your door. 20

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

Clair’s Composite Doors, is run by wife and husband Jassie & Keith, who have over 50 years’ experience in the trade. Keith is an experienced engineer and surveyor, with his precision and extreme attention to detail setting him head and shoulders above the field. He works across both trade and consumer clients and is able to offer strong and reliable advice for all products.

Jassie runs the new Penkridge showroom and with her excellent knowledge of the trade, you will sure be impressed! Look out for the seasonal window displays which Jassie will be changing every month.

Visit our brand new Penkridge showroom where you can take time to browse the latest ranges we have on display.

Our brand new showroom is now open at Stone Cross, Market Street, Penkridge, ST19 5AS.

01785 714 554

sales@clairscompositedoors.co.uk www.clairscompositedoors.co.uk

Find us on Facebook

Happy 8th Anniversary Staffordshire Outlook Here at the Staffordshire Outlook, we are celebrating our 8th anniversary this month! We are so grateful to all of the clients who continue to advertise their business and to the readers for contributing to the Staffordshire Outlook Magazine’s popularity and success. Sales Director Sharon Caldwell says “I cannot believe that we are now celebrating our eighth anniversary, time certainly flies when you’re having fun! I didn’t think when I started the magazine that it would be as successful as it has been to date. I have such great feedback from the readers of the magazine, and they comment on how local the content of the magazine is.This was my main objective when I started the Staffordshire Outlook. I go and see all of my clients every month and I have made many new friends on the way. The comments I receive every month off my clients is fantastic, and it makes me so proud that the Staffordshire Outlook is bringing new customers and increasing their profit. I want to thank you, the readers of the magazine and hopefully you will continue to support the Staffordshire Outlook.” After the very sudden death of my Father, Malcolm Caldwell in July 2019 who was the editor and distributor of the Staffordshire Outlook, my Mother, Myrna took over the role of editor. She has done an amazing job, and is really enjoying being involved. Also all of my fantastic distributors who make sure the readers get to see the magazine every month, a big thank you to you all! Our aim at Staffordshire Outlook is to help local business’s achieve their full potential by reaching their local target market at a cost effective rate. Local people are using local businesses more now than ever. Please get in contact if you want your business to be featured in a local, quality magazine. Please see below a few client testimonials who are advertising their business in the magazine with great results: At Tile Choice we have proven a strong marketing mix brings a successful campaign. We have been advertising with the Staffordshire Outlook magazine for many years now and have had great feedback in our stores. We highly commend Sharon for putting together a well informative local magazine which fits our target demographic perfectly, and wish for the success to continue and grow year after year. Lee Rudkin, Marketing Director - Tile Choice Limited

Sharon Caldwell – Director & Myrna Caldwell-Editor Lyndale Stairs Ltd would like to wish Staffordshire Outlook a Happy 8th Anniversary. We have been advertising with them for approximately 4 years and we have had increasing success with our advertising campaigns. We have had continued support and input from Sharon, for which she has our thanks. Staffordshire Outlook is full of articles and useful information, thus creating readership interest in the magazine. This has certainly raised our profile in the area accompanied by an increase in our sales. Once again congratulations Staffordshire Outlook Neill Parker – Lyndale Stairs Ltd Since I started advertising La Minky & Salon La Mink in the Staffordshire Outlook in July 2013, the response and new customers that the magazine has brought me has been tremendous. I have used other publications in the past, however the Staffordshire Outlook is the one that has delivered the best results by far! I will continue to advertise in this great magazine for the foreseeable future, as every month Sharon comes to see me and we change the offers to keep my advertising fresh and up to date with the seasons. If you are looking for a magazine that gets results, I would recommend the Staffordshire Outlook, it has worked for us and I am sure it can work for you! Happy 8th Birthday Staffordshire Outlook and I hope you have many more. June Laing – La Minky

22 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

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Quality Oak, Pine, Painted and Reclaimed Furniture Here at Britannia Pine & Furniture we are a family run business who have been established and trading for over 20 years. We are quality manufacturers and wholesalers of solid wood furniture in pine, oak, reclaimed and painted furniture. We aim to cater for all price ranges from low cost furniture to our more expensive ranges. Bespoke Furniture is our wealth of knowledge & passion for creativity to ensure our craftsmen deliver furniture beyond expectations with every bespoke piece of furniture made, designed by you! We can provide solid oak, solid pine, reclaimed or painted furniture to suit any room in your home be it classic, contemporary, or traditional. Come and visit our huge two story showroom where you will discover the widest range of quality wood furniture. Our collection includes dining room furniture, bedroom furniture, living room furniture, kitchen and occasional furniture. Our best selling Milan Range is made to the highest industry standards using 100% solid oak.

Our goal is to provide customers with quality products at low prices along with personalised customer service. When you visit us, as well as a warm welcome, you will find our staff to be helpful and knowledgeable and we are sure that you will like the competitive prices that they are able to offer you. All of the items you purchase are hand delivered to ensure that the product delivered to your door is of the same exceptional quality as the product you selected from our traditional showroom. If you do prefer to order your quality furniture online please visit our website where you can buy directly from us. www.britanniapine.co.uk We are waiting to welcome you to Britannia Pine!

Britannia Pine, Unit 9B Watling Street, Business Park, Cannock, Staffordshire WS11 9XG Tel: 01543 379888 Email: info@britanniapine. co.uk

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9am - 5pm, Sundays & Bank holidays 10am - 4pm www.britanniapine.co.uk

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

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I NTERIOR D ESIGN IDEAS N

By Daniel Wynn, Interior Designer - www.danielwynninteriors.com ____________________________

ew trends always emerge every season in regards to fashion and interiors, however, certain colours and shades have such an impact that they surpass being a trend. Considered to be the experts in colour, for a wide range of designers, companies, and brands, Pantone release every year a new colour that is set to become huge. For 2020 they have chosen Classic Blue – a universal shade that is both tranquil and bold yet can be used within a variety of styles and homes. Here, interior designer Daniel Wynn has selected a budget vs. blowout with his top picks. The key to using blue in your home is complimenting white and metallic accents with all hues of blue from ultramarine through to azure, navy and sapphire.

BUDGET

v s.

BLOWOUT

Cushion EICHHOLTZ £98 Cushion BLUE SUNTREE £21

Milan Geo Wallpaper I LOVE WALLPAPER £15

Total: £575 26

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

Sumi Wallpaper in Indigo HARLEQUIN £71

Total: £4194

Lowes Building & Maintenance Lowes Building & Maintenance are a reliable, honest and professional building company with 15 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience in the trade in the Staffordshire area. Our job is to take every project from idea to completion, we provide a full service to any homeowner willing to improve their home.

We provide excellent workmanship and service at highly competitive prices. We are able to offer a full range of services and solutions, from simple repair work through to bespoke solutions for large projects. As a company we aim to offer all of our customers with an outstanding quality service at a highly competitive price. With so many companies to choose from, making the right partnership for your home improvement or renovation project is a hard and very important decision to make. Here at Lowes Building & Maintenance we offer a full one stop service for all domestic, commercial and insurance work.

We will take the time to listen to your exact needs and offer a tailor-made solution. We will oversee your house building, refurbishment and renovation from start to finish, providing you with a dedicated, bespoke and caring approach to meet your requirements and expectations.

Please contact us direct on 07592 141405 or email lowesbuilding@hotmail.com We are based in Penkridge

DOMESTIC/COMMERCIAL & INSURANCE WORK

FREE NO OBLIGATION ESTIMATES LOCAL AND RELIABLE SERVICE General Building

Extensions Garage Conversions Porches Alterations Brickwork Chimneys Refurbishments Roofing

Ground Work

Drainage/Sockaways Patios/Slabbing Block Paving Concreting Fencing Â

Internal Work Alterations Kitchens Bathrooms Plastering Tiling Wood Work

Please contact us 07592 141405 or email lowesbuilding@hotmail.com www.lowesbuilding.com 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

WHO ARE WE? Midlands Water Softeners are a family run business powered by Harvey Water Softeners who have over 30 years experience in the industry. We offer a professional service with professional advice minus the hard sell. Our goal is to provide an exceptional product for all whilst maintaining the highest levels of customer service.

and what you, as a customer, want from our product. Our revolutionary water softener is an industry leader across UK and Europe, designed in Harvey Water Softeners purpose built factory in Old Woking, Surrey. Here at Midlands Water Softeners we feel it’s important to let you know that we only install the Harvey Water Softener. The reason behind this? It’s the No.1 Water Softener on the market and we take great pride in only supplying the best product for our customers.

We are the Harvey Water Softeners dealership for the We have that much faith in our Harvey Water surrounding Midlands area and we can assure you that when you invest in a Harvey Water Softener you’re Softener that it comes with a 10 Year Parts Warranty and a 2 Year Labour Guarantee also! in good hands. Did we mention that they are known to last for What’s our secret? The truth is simple. We take the time more than 20 years also? to listen and educate. We understand the UK market

NEVER HEARD OF A WATER SOFTENER? Not to worry, we’ll explain… A water softener removes calcium, magnesium and other metal cations that can be found in hard water (our tap water). The Midlands area as a whole is a hard water area, this is because we are built on top of Limestone – unlike areas like Wales and Scotland for example which are built on top of Granite (these are soft water areas). The calcium and magnesium in hard water causes us various problems which you may

Midlands Water Softeners Ltd Tel: 0800 038 5926 / 01902 924234 Suite 8, Hilton Hall, Hilton Lane, Essington WV11 2BQ

Email: info@midlandswatersofteners.uk Website: www.midlandswatersofteners.uk 28

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

have already noticed, such as;

• Limescale build up/damage inside household appliances

• Hard to remove water droplets around wash basins and taps

• Dry skin and the potential development of Eczema (proven by a University study) • Dry, dull hair and hair loss • Faded laundry

• Hard, crispy towels and clothing after being dried

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

Achieve your desired look Aluminium, Stainless Steel and Glass production has developed so much over the past few years that almost anything is possible to achieve your desired look. With our wealth of experience you can be assured that our ability to transform some style into your property comes with an attention to detail and uncompromising commitment to quality and performance, our aim is to deliver a first class product, at a competitive price. We manufacture standard windows and doors, bi-fold and patio doors, curtain walling and balustrade at our factory in Rumer

Hill, Cannock. We manufacture all of our products in house therefore maintaining a consistently high standard and quality Please do not hesitate to contact us with your bespoke ideas, plans and projects.

Credit card payments now being taken. We offer supply only to DIY and Trade

Tech Aluminium Systems Limited, Unit 10 Rumer Hill Business Estate, Rumer Hill Road, Cannock, Staffordshire WS11 0ET

T: 01543 467272 E: admin@techalum.co.uk

www.techalumsystems.co.uk ImagesOUTLOOK on this page are recent STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020 STAFFORDSHIRE | APRIL 2020 DECEMBER 2018 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK OUTLOOK || NOVEMBER 2018 STAFFORDSHIRE JANUARY 2019

projects

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Transform your garden this summer If you are looking to transform your garden this summer, then look no further than Standeford Garden Construction. We are a family run Business established in 1954, and are standard. We provide an now into the fourth generation extensive range of services to of the Wright family. suit every taste and budget. We are the experts in Garden We promise that we will construction, based at Old make your garden the Stafford Road in Coven. envy of your street! Standeford Garden construction Call now for a free no includes many components From small roof repairs new roofs obligationsto quote. within the garden landscaping · Dry Ridge Systems We also provide a supply sector ranging from Driveways, only forRest Soil, Stone, Sand, Tarmac, Block-paving,· Gravel, Ridge Tiles and Repointed Logs Systems and Kindling Fencing, Turfing, Slabbing, · Dry Verge General Landscaping, Site Old Stafford road · Chimneys Removed/Repointed Clearance and much more. Slade Heath, Coven · UPVC cleaning service WV10 7PH Over the 61 years that’ we Damage 790238 have been trading, we· are Storm 01902 07748 636549 very proud to say that·we Flat Roof Systems have earned an excellent Like our page on Call for a free no obligation quote: reputation for constructing Facebook - Standeford 07979 836363 or 01785 878550 gardens to the highest quality. Garden Construction All of our work is expertly crafted by trained professionals, and finished to a very high

YOUR LOCAL STAFFORD FAMILY RUN BUSINESS FASCIAS • SOFFITS • GUTTERS

Roll-A-Robe fitted mirror wardrobes Roll-A-Robe fitted mirror wardrobes will enhance the decor of any bedroom will enhance the decor of any bedroom by adding light and the impression by adding light and the impression of doubling the room size. of doubling the room size.

Your local Stafford family ROOFIX Roofingo Business Standeford ta runde

Garden Construction

Welcome to Roofix, we are a well-established family business based in Staffordshire that is dedicated to the roofing trade. Having been in the Roofing, Fascia’s, Soffits and Guttering industry Established 1954 for over 20 years we pride ourselves on our excellent customer FAMILY RUN BUSINESS satisfaction throughout the Staffordshire area. We provide excellent workmanship andpaving service at highly competitive • Block prices. We are able to offer a full range of services and solutions, • Natural stone paving from simple repair work through to bespoke solutions for large projects. As a company we aim to offer all of •our customers with an • Tarmacing Turfing outstanding quality service.

• Slabbing • Fencing

From free roof inspections through to complete roof

• Site clearance replacements, no job is too big or too small

• All general landscaping for us here at Roofix. • Suppliers of stone, have full liability soil, sandWeetc. insurance and all work is guaranteed. Like our page •on Facebook We are members of My Builder.com, and we come highly Standeford Garden Construction recommended please check out all of our reviews which are all 100%.

07748 636 549 us now for a free no 01902Call 790 238 obligation quote: 07979

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Roll-A-Robe Roll-A-Robe

w w w. r o l l - a - r o b e . c o m w w w. r o l l - a - r o b e . c o m

Sliding doors that move aside without the intrusion of hinged doors and so giving more Sliding doors thatwith move without the intrusion ofwall, hinged doors and sostorage. giving more living space, theaside addition of planned wall to floor to ceiling living space, with the addition of planned wall to wall, floor to ceiling storage.

You will find that you have "More useful storage" than you thought! You will find that you have "More useful storage" than you thought!

We now also offer supply only to DIY/Trade

Unit 9 West Cannock Way • Cannock Chase Enterprise Centre Unit 9 West Cannock Way • Cannock • Chase Centre Hednesford • Staffordshire WS12Enterprise 0QW Hednesford • Staffordshire • WS12 0QW

01543 426425 426425 sales@roll-a-robe.co.uk rollarobe@gmail.com 01543 01543 426425 sales@roll-a-robe.co.uk 07878 553289

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 31 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 31

STAFFORDSHIRE

COUNTY SHOW 2020 WEDNESDAY 27TH MAY & THURSDAY 28TH MAY COMPETITION! Staffordshire County Show never fails to impress with its many thousands of visitors each year kept fully entertained by an unrivalled programe of diversity - and this year promises to be another monster hit!

This year the show is also included on the British Isles Shearing Competitions Association (BISCA) Welsh Shearing Circuit for the first time. It already features on the English Circuit - one of just 10 venues on the calendar nationally - making the show one of the top shearing events in the country.

The Big Pete International Monster Truck Team will be the star attraction of this year’s Grand Ring programme at the Weston Road showground on Wednesday and Thursday, May 27 and 28, during the half-term school holiday. Big Pete is 16ft tall and 12ft wide, weighing in at 7.5 tonnes, can jump 15ft into the air and being paired with Grim Reaper makes for a truly incredible display. The Monster Trucks always prove a massive attraction wherever they go and are sure to wow the crowds at Stafford, alongside a fantastic further choice of family entertainment, food, crafts, vehicles of all shapes and sizes and lots for music and animal lovers.

Last year’s show reached record heights with the highest number of entries in sheep and cattle competitions in recent history. There were almost 800 entries to exhibit sheep, nearly 300 cattle and also increased numbers in horses, dogs and goat entries as around 65,000 visitors attended the event during the two days. The boom in the popularity of sheep shearing competitions was seen at the show last year, resulting in further enhancements for this year with the competition taking place in a much larger area to house competitors, spectators and sheep, while an extra event has been added. This year it is anticipated there will be a record-breaking 120 competitors and about 1,000 sheep.

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

“With so much to see, it’s not difficult to understand why Staffordshire County Show continues to be one of the must-see events of the year.”

Richard Williams, Chief Executive of the Staffordshire and Birmingham Agricultural Society, said: “This year promises to be another amazing event, a packed programme of diverse attractions covering the whole showground in what should be two days of action-packed activities with something to suit everyone.

“We are all looking forward to the Monster Trucks while other Grand Ring programme attractions include our traditional livestock parade and the Scurry Drivers, a fast-paced display featuring teams of two ponies and riders competing against each other to see which will complete a course in the fastest time. “Wednesday’s showgoers will be able to see the parade of hounds and beagles, show jumping and a vintage machinery parade while, on Thursday, we will be welcoming the parade of young farmers’ floats. “Woodfest will include a medieval ropemaker for the first time, besom broom making, a mobile saw mill, clog making, basket making, horse logging, charcoal making, chainsaw carving and children’s activities. “The Country Pursuits area will feature the Sheep Show, Birds of Prey Display, Quack Pack, fly-casting demonstration and competition, ferret roadshow, donkey rides, exotic animal roadshow and horse shoeing. “There will also be live music, a craft fair, antiques fair, Young Farmers exhibition, woodland walks, WI exhibition and market, steam railway rides, display of rare breeds, Punch and Judy, bees and honey show, food hall and cookery theatre, motor show, floral arts, cookery and handicrafts competitions and 400 trade stands.

Early bird tickets will be available to buy from the showground office or the website www.staffscountyshowground.co.uk from April 1st. Advance tickets will be available from all other outlets from May 1st.

This month we’ve once again teamed up with the organisers to offer the chance to win a family ticket to this great event. For your chance to win this prize please answer the following question:

How many visitors attended the Staffordshire County Show last year?

A) 55,000 B) 65,000 C) 70,000 Email your answer to info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk Please ensure you include your name, address and telephone number. Entries to arrive by Thursday 30th April 2020. Terms and Conditions:

Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries and notified by telephone. Prize is a family ticket to be used for Wednesday 27th or Thursday 28th May 2020. No cash or alternative prize available.

Green Thumb Since taking over the Stafford Franchise in September 2018, husband and wife team Daryl and Julie Harvey are enjoying taking care of their existing customers and are successfully growing their business. GreenThumb Stafford now has a team of four professionally qualified Lawn Operatives visiting over 2,200 lawns in the Staffordshire area. We cover the following post code areas ST14, ST16, ST17, ST18, ST19, ST20, ST21, WS6, WS11, WS12, WS15. Our Treatment Programmes begin with our four seasonal NutraGreen Treatments ensuring your lawn is lush green, weed free and loved. For more than 30 years, we have been analysing the best treatments and fertilisers for your lawn with our dedicated team of developers and plant food nutritionists’. Our very own range of NutraGreen fertilisers were created utilising all our years of experience, development and technology; they are quite simply the best lawn treatment fertilisers. As we specially developed these, they are unique to us, only GreenThumb customers receive them. We also provide additional treatments including Aeration, Scarification, Moss Control, Lawn Disease Management, Oasis Water Conservers, Organic Pest Control and Management and Growth Regulator Treatments. To help you make an informed decision, we explain the benefits of all our treatments as well as the discounts you’ll receive on our Complete and Enhanced Direct Debit Programmes. We have introduced this payment method to

make it easier and more affordable for our loyal customers. Our new customers are surprised at how little the GreenThumb Lawn Treatments cost which is often less than treating the lawns themselves. Over the past eighteen months we have introduced our Lawn Makeover service for our customers who want the Ultimate Lawn. If your lawn is beyond its best, a patchwork of good and bad grasses, or you just want the best lawn ever, then our Lawn Makeover is just for you! We hope to make people’s lives easier by offering a simple solution to Lawn Care, working together in a partnership to create long lasting, beautiful lawns. If you have a question, please feel free to call us and ask. We are more than happy to visit and assess your lawns condition; this is free of charge and without any obligation. Call 01785 225039 or email stafford@greenthumb.co.uk today to arrange your free lawn analysis.

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Measure your lawn online for an instant estimate You may be surprised by how affordable our service is. Just head over to our website and measure your lawn online for a quote greenthumb.co.uk/measure

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Thousands of Fabulous Plants Coming to a Plant Fair Near You! Spring is upon us and what better time to get out in the garden and get planning and planting for the year ahead and where better to get inspiration and some brilliant plants than at a Plant Hunters’ Fair coming to area this Spring.

shrubs. Entry to the gardens and plant fair is at the special event price of just £4.00 (normally £8.50). On Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd May Plant Hunters’ Fairs returns to the grand setting of Weston Park (TF11 8LE) on the A5 just off the A41. There is so much to see and do with formal gardens and woodland walks planted with spring bulbs, bluebells, azaleas and rhododendrons. For this special event, Weston Park are offering a great value entrance price of just £4.00 (normally £8.00) for the fair, gardens and grounds.

Plant Hunters’ Fairs are such brilliant value to visit. Some plant fairs are free to enter, and some offer large discounts on standard prices for entry to the lovely gardens and the plant fair. These must be some of the best value days out around! There will be a brilliant line-up of nurseries attending each event, laden with flowering bulbs, early flowering perennials, shrubs and trees to provide instant colour and later flowering plants for colour into the summer and beyond. The nursery folk are full of help and advice for the new or less experienced gardener. On Saturday 4th April the venue is Battlefield 1403 near Shrewsbury (SY4 3DB). This wonderful farm shop, café is next to the site of the Battle of Shrewsbury. The plant fair will turn the courtyard into a sea of colour. Entry is completely free.

Donington 1620s House and Garden, Coalville (LE67 2FW) is the host on Saturday 9th May. Entry to the gardens and plant fair is just £1. Entry to the Manor House is optional and at normal prices.

The Plant Hunters’ Fair on Easter Sunday 12th and Monday 13th April at Dorothy Clive Garden (TF9 4EU) is now a “must” with garden lovers. This wonderful garden always has a beautiful display of spring colour to enjoy and with 23 nurseries and garden artisans booked to come, this event makes a wonderful Easter treat not to be missed. Entry to the fair and 12-acre gardens is better than half standard price at just £4.00 (normally £9.00) On Sunday 19th April Plant Hunters’ Fairs visit the wonderful gem, Middleton Hall, near Tamworth (B78 2AE). The event offers the opportunity to visit a brilliant line-up of 24 specialist nurseries and artisans and with entry to the Gardens, Hall and Plant Fair all for just £3.00 (normally £6.00) you can certainly make a day of it.

Sunday 31st May sees a return visit to the National Memorial Arboretum (DE13 7AR) Entry to the plant fair and arboretum is free so pop along and visit a brilliant line up of nurseries from across the country. Plant Hunters’ Fairs return to the magnificent setting of Hodnet Hall, Market Drayton (TF9 3NN) for their, now traditional, specialist plant fair on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June. This fair continues to attract the cream of specialist nurseries, as well some of the best artisans around and is a great opportunity to meet nurseries from far and wide all in one place. For this special event the venue is offering than half price entry of just £4.00 for adults (normally £8.00 for adults) children under 15 are free.

It’s then on to Sandwell Valley Country Park, West Bromwich B71 4BG on Saturday 25th April with free entry to the plant fair and country park. At the same time why not enjoy a walk at this wonderful Country Park. On Sunday 26th April Cholmondeley Castle Garden, Malpas (SY14 8AH) is the host. We are expecting a show stopping performance from the drifts of bulbs and flowering trees and 34 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

So, whether its alpines, trees, shrubs, bee-friendly perennials, plants for shade, climbers, herbs, spring bulbs, variegated and foliage plants you are sure to find some wonderful plants at these events to create a blooming brilliant garden this year. All fairs open from 10am. You can find out which nurseries will be at each event and details of other great fairs by visiting www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk Please check the website for any last minute updates before travelling.

...we make saving money perfectly clear...

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make your garden the garden Over theRoad 66 years that’s we have make beenyour trading, wethe are very Stafford in Coven. Coven. envy of of your your street! street! Stafford Road in envy proud to say that we have earned an excellent reputation for Standeford Garden construction Standeford Garden construction UN BUSINESS Call now now for for aa free free no no Call includes many components From small roof repairs to new roofs constructing gardens to the highest quality. includes many components obligations quote. quote. obligations within the the garden garden landscaping landscaping within • Block paving · Dry Ridge Systems We also provide supply sector ranging from Driveways, also provide aa supply sector ranging Driveways, All of our workfrom is expertly crafted We by trained professionals, only for forRest Soil, Stone, Stone, Sand, Tarmac, Block-paving, Block-paving,· Gravel, Gravel, Ridge Tiles and Repointed only Soil, Sand, Tarmac, • Natural stone paving and finished to a very high standard. We provide an Logs and and Kindling Kindling Fencing, Turfing, Turfing, Slabbing, Slabbing, Logs Fencing, · Dry Verge Systems extensive range of services to suitOld every taste and General Landscaping, Landscaping, Site • Tarmacing • Turfing General Stafford roadbudget. ·Site Chimneys Removed/Repointed Old Stafford road Clearance and much muchyour more. Why not transform garden and outside space ready for Clearance and more. Slade Heath, Coven Slade Heath, Coven • Slabbing • Fencing · UPVC cleaning service WV10 7PHyour garden the Over the 61 61 years years that’ we we that weWV10 the summer, we that’ promise will make 7PH Over the Damage • Site clearance envy 01902 790238 have of been trading, we· are are Storm 01902 790238 have been trading, we your street! 07748 636549 very proud proud to to say say that that·we we Flat Roof Systems 07748 636549 very • All general landscaping havenow earned anaexcellent excellent have earned Call foran free no obligations quote. Like our page on Like our page on Call for a free no obligation quote: reputation for for constructing constructing reputation • Suppliers of stone, Facebook Standeford Old Stafford road, Slade Heath, Coven--or WV10 7PH878550 Facebook Standeford 07979 836363 01785 gardens to the the highest highest quality. gardens to quality. Garden Construction Construction soil, sand etc. 01902 790238 - 07748 636549Garden All of of our our work work is is expertly expertly All Like our page on Facebook Standeford Garden crafted by trained professionals, on Facebook crafted by trained professionals, and finished finished to aa very very high high en Construction and Construction to

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Linwood Trade Supplies Whether you’re a first time DIYer, a seasoned home renovation specialist or a professional tradesperson, you’ll find that the staff at Linwood Trade Supplies are always available to give advice and information. We pride ourselves on the quality of our stock and the personal service we give. Take a peek in our warehouse and you’ll find it’s jam packed full of beautiful wall coverings. From top quality wallpapers to all manner of paints and wood stains, we’ve something for every wall and every project in our DIY supplies store in Cannock. You’ll find exciting new wallpapers, traditional wall coverings and all kinds of paint and wood stains, in our well stocked decorating supplies stores in Cannock. Whether you’re looking for emulsion for your walls, gloss for your woodwork or need gallons of industrial paint for that commercial project, you’ll find exactly what you need in our well stocked DIY supplies warehouses in. We stock leading brands such as Dulux, Johnstone’s and ICI, Industrial and domestic paints, for both trade and retail sectors. As with all our decorating supplies, Linwood Trade Supplies always offer extremely competitive prices for all our paint products. You’re going to be spoilt for choice by our extensive range of wallpaper. In fact, we have one of the largest selections of wallpaper in the country. And with so many types to choose OUTLOOK 2019 16 26 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK| SEPTEMBER |OCTOBER APRIL 2020 2018 36 STAFFORDSHIRE

from, we’re bound to have a style you’ll love. Styles from leading suppliers Sanderson, Morris & Co and Harlequin. If you want to add a little colour and protection to your wood, our wood stains are the perfect solution. Available in a range of natural colours and some more unusual variations, they’ll add an extra special touch to wooden items all around your home. You’re no longer limited to natural wood stain colours, but can choose from a myriad of colours including pinks, blues and greens. They’re the perfect finishing touch for floors and to complement your wallpapers, paints and other wall coverings. Of course, no DIY store would be complete without a comprehensive range of DIY accessories. That’s why Linwood Trade Supplies stock all kinds of useful products for all kinds of DIY and decorating projects including all kinds of paintbrushes, including Harris paintbrushes, Wallpaper paste, paste brushes, rollers, painter’s overalls, bibs and braces and dust sheets. Unit 1 Brookfield Drive, Walsall Road, Cannock WS11 0JN www.linwoodtrade.co.uk

Linwood Decorating Supplies E V E R Y T H I N G TO C R E AT E B E A U T I F U L WA L L S

L i n wo o Linwood Decorating Supplies, Supply Wallpaper, Paint & DIY Unit 1 Brookfield Drive, Walsall Road, Cannock, Staffs WS11 0JN

01543 571218 Unit 115-116 Anglesey Business Park, Littleworth Road, Hednesford, Cannock WS12 1NR

01543 425341

www.linwoodtrade.co.uk 27

LOCAL FARM WINS NATIONAL AWARD! Canalside Farm, near Stafford were declared as winners of the ‘Small Farm Shop of the Year’, at a prestigious awards ceremony on the 3rd March held at the Nottingham Belfry. The national award ceremony, which celebrated the cream of the crop in the farm retail industry, was organized by the Farm Retail Association (FRA).

and Café, and the introduction of an on-site Butchery, Bakery and Delicatessen. Since then, the two businesses have gone from strength to strength, creating 40 new jobs and selling over 100,000 punnets of strawberries; 20,000 home-made sausage rolls and serving over 110,000 cups of coffee. The Farm Retail Awards are the only awards to be judged by fellow farm retailers and celebrate the best farm shops, farm cafés and restaurants, farmers’ markets and trade suppliers in the country. Canalside were finalists in two categories - the Small Farm Shop of the Year and the Farm Café/ Restaurant of the Year.

The family-run Farm, which has been growing its own produce for over 35 years, has won several awards for their Farm Shop and produce over the years, but never one on such a large scale, which covers the whole of the UK. Chris Barton, owner of the Farm said: “To say that we are absolutely thrilled and delighted to win this award, is an understatement. When you consider the standard and number of Farm Shops across the UK, it really is an honour just to have been short listed. We cannot thank our staff and customers enough, for their continued loyalty and support over the last 35 years. Our Farm Shop has grown and changed a lot in that time, and it is only with the continued support of our customers, that we have been able to achieve what we have.” The Farm has indeed undergone a major transformation in the last 8 years, with the build of a brand new Farm Shop

For further information please telephone 01889 881747 or log onto the their website www.canalsidefarm.co.uk

ROTARY CLUB DONATE £1621 TO AIR AMBULANCE On a very cold and windy leap year day, members of the Rotary Club of Cannock visited the Midland Air Ambulance station in Tatenhill, Rotary Club President Geoff Clegg presented a cheque for £1621.23 to the Midland Air Ambulance Charity. The Rotarians were welcomed by Air Ambulance Staffordshire Fundraising Executive Kelly Weatherer and enjoyed seeing inside the helicopter and a very informative talk from an onduty paramedic. The money donated was raised at the Annual 10K Road Race organised in November each year by the Rotary Club of Cannock. The Rotary Club of Cannock raises and donates money each year and supports charities locally, nationally and internationally to help people in need. If you wish to find out more about the Rotary Club of Cannock or are interested in joining Rotary please visit the Club’s website at www.cannockrotary.co.uk.

38 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

Photo: President Geoff Clegg presents a cheque L to R: David Marklew, President Geoff Clegg, Steve King, Ian Hall, Kelly Weatherer, Allan Rotchell, David Gardiner, Alan Matkin

AWARD ELECTRICAL Hello. I am Alex Ward the friendly face and Director of Award Electrical established in Stafford. I have been trading locally for 15 years starting my profession as a registered NICEIC Domestic Installer and progressing to the higher ranked NICEIC Approved Contractor. Only members with ‘Approved Contractor’ status have the full backing of the NICEIC to carry out Landlords and homebuyers electrical safety inspections. These can be invaluable when negotiating the purchase of your new home. Award Electrical is also fully backed in Portable Appliance (PAT) Testing. Trust, reliability, courtesy and a good old-fashioned smile have always been top of the list when dealing with my customers and it is with this approach I have built up a large client base serving many of my customers since day one. It’s a wonderful experience to begin a job with a friendly chat before getting stuck in to a job. I offer a variety of services from installing a new oven to complete kitchen electrics, from fitting a new socket to new security lighting systems. All my work is carried out confidently, neatly and fully guaranteed. A little about myself. I am a volunteer of my local woodland management team and in my spare time I enjoy walking, cycling, making music and maintaining a good level of mind and body fitness.

Professional, Friendly and reliable Electrician for 15 years • • • • • •

Kitchen electrics Bathroom electrics Sockets Lights PAT Testing Landlords / Home Buyers Reports • Fuseboard replacements All work certified to BS7671 & Part P

Please call 01785 621207 or 07737 187014

awardelectrical.co.uk

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32 Newcas

NEW SAFARI LODGES WILL BE A FIRST IN THE UK…

Work has started at West Midland Safari Park for the first phase of their exciting, brandnew development, which includes onsite accommodation and upgraded animal facilities. Eight exclusive, luxury ‘Safari Lodges’ will be integrated into the newly-updated animal habitats, overlooking African elephants and cheetahs, designed to give guests an up-close and personal, overnight wildlife experience like no other. Nestled into their own secluded area, but fully immersed within the wildlife reserves, there will be six lodges offering the only overnight accommodation experience with elephants in the UK. Two more lodges will offer incredible views of the Park’s cheetahs – also the only experience of its kind in the UK. To oversee and drive the development forward, Chris Kelly has joined the Park’s management team, as Accommodation and Venues Director. Chris is no stranger to this industry, sustaining a record of success at Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve, part of the Aspinall Foundation, where he held the title of Short Breaks Director for seven years. Chris said, “I am delighted to be joining the team at West Midland Safari Park, at such an exciting time. I grew up in the Midlands and the Park has always been a favourite place to visit, since I was a youngster. To be operationally delivering the new wildlife development project and lodges, is such a fantastic opportunity for me and something I am already very passionate about.” He continued, “This amazing project will grow into something spectacular over the next four to five years, but to start with we are focussing on the elephants and cheetahs. Not only will the new lodges offer guests the opportunity to stay onsite overnight for the first time, they also allow us to create upgraded, stimulating and enriching environments for the animals. “Conservation is at the forefront of our minds when designing and building the lodges, so as part of this project, our net 42 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

biodiversity gain will increase by 30%, creating more habitats such as woodlands and wildflower meadows, encouraging native wildlife. Revenue from the lodges will support improving the facilities for more of the Park’s amazing animals, as we work towards the next phases of development.” The elephant lodges will be authentically themed with thatched roofs, accommodating up to six people. They will have large, open-plan living areas with lounge and dining area, plus a downstairs bedroom, as well as a large balcony with outdoor seating. Upstairs will be a bedroom, offering spectacular views across the brand-new elephant habitats. Breakfast and evening meals are included, and guests are encouraged to make use of the outdoor terrace to enjoy their meals, whilst watching the elephants approach the pool in front of the lodges. The two single-story, detached cheetah lodges will also sleep up to six people. The living space will have a large window, spanning one side of the building, offering panoramic views of the cheetahs in their new habitat. A floor-to-ceiling window offers similar, incredible views in the bedrooms. Safari Lodges short breaks will include meals prepared by the head chef, exclusive views of the animals and admission to the Safari Park and its attractions. Wristbands for the rides for the Adventure Theme Park will also be included for those staying during the Park’s summer season. Each lodge will offer free Wi-Fi, TV, coffee machine and mini bar, filled with local produce. Guests can sign-up for news, development updates and booking information, by visiting www.safarilodges.co.uk. The development is part of a long-term investment strategy from the Park’s owners, the Looping Group, which focusses on upgrading the animal facilities alongside improving the overall guest experience. The first phase of the development has ambitions for completion this summer. Further information about West Midland Safari Park is available from the Park’s website www.wmsp.co.uk or by telephone 01299 402114. Find out more on the Safari Park’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ WestMidSafari.

and volunteers with the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeals. Members joined in wishing Anne every success in her new post.

Popular Children’s Market Returns… Roll-A-Robe fitted mirror wardrobes

Roll-A-Robe fitted mirror wardrobes will enhance decor of any bedroom This April Penkridgethe Market will enhance the decor of any bedroom will be holding another by adding light and the impression fantastic Children’s Market, by adding light and the impression of doubling the room size. giving you the opportunity of doubling the room size. to sell all of your unwanted items; find fantastic bargains, plus give the kids a great day out at the same time. The Market, which will take place on Sunday the 26th April, will be entirely dedicated to children, with stalls selling everything from nearly new children’s clothes to toys and handmade crafts. There will also be plenty of activities to keep the children entertained, with a petting farm, donkey rides, inflatable soft play, mascot visits, fairground, a free craft area and much, much more.

Bumford.

The event will run from 10am to 3pm, and with free admission for children and only £2 for adults, it’s a great, affordable day out for all the family.

Roll-A-Robe Roll-A-Robe

Over 60 stall holders are expected, selling a variety of goods from nearly new clothes, toys and books to handmade w w hair w. r o l l - a -knitted r o b e . cand om keepsakes, w w w.accessories, r o l l - a - r o bitems e . c o personalised m gifts. The majority of stalls will be undercover in the indoor market, making it a fun day out whatever the weather. There will be lots of animals for the children to meet, with ‘Farm on Wheels’ providing a petting farm and giving children the opportunity to bottle feed their lambs. Lower Drayton Farm will also be bringing along a tractor for children to sit on, as well as animals to feed. Kate Kingsley, who was the brain child behind the event said: “We had a fantastic response to the event last year, with thousands of people attending on how Sliding doors that move aside without the intrusion of hinged doors andand so commenting giving more much of theyhinged enjoyed doors the day.and I thinkso parents really value the Sliding doors that move aside without the intrusion giving more living space, with the addition of planned wall to wall, floor to incredible ceiling storage. fact that can pick up bargains, all in one living space, with the addition of planned wall to they wall, floor to ceiling storage. place and keep the children at the same time. It You will find that you have "More useful storage" thanamused you thought! also gives parents thethan opportunity to sell their nearly new You will find that you have "More useful storage" you thought! children’s clothes, toys and equipment without commission, and with a stall only costing £12, they can hopefully make a Unit 9 West Cannock Way • Cannock Chase Enterprise Centre great profit.” Way Unit 9 West Cannock • Cannock • Chase Centre Hednesford • Staffordshire WS12Enterprise 0QW If you would like to book a stall 0QW at the event, please Hednesford • Staffordshire • WS12 contact Kate by e-mail kate@penkridgemarket.co.uk For further information please telephone 01785 714221 or log onto the website www.penkridgemarket.co.uk

We now also offer supply only to DIY/Trade

01543 426425 426425 sales@roll-a-robe.co.uk rollarobe@gmail.com 01543 01543 426425 sales@roll-a-robe.co.uk 07878 553289

22 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | MARCH 2020

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COMPETITION

We’ve teamed up with Alton Towers Resort to give away x2 Premium Season Passes, which include Theme Park entry throughout their 2020 Season, including Summer weekends and Scarefest*

Celebrate 40 years of The Power of the Towers this year as you share joy, laughter and thrills with family and friends at Britain’s Greatest Escape! NEW for 2020, take a spin through the sewers on Gangsta Granny: The Ride! Based on the World of David Walliams, pull off the greatest jewel heist in history on a 360° special effects laden wild ride to break into the crown jewels vault from Spring! Plus enjoy an awesome choice of world-class rollercoasters including Wicker Man, Nemesis, Oblivion and The Smiler and a host of fantastic family attractions in CBeebies Land! To enjoy the fun and thrills of Gangsta Granny: The Ride again and again, as well as over 40 more breath taking rides and attractions including Wicker Man, Oblivion and Nemesis, buy an Alton Towers Premium Season Pass for just £75: pay for a day, and come back for free all season. (exclusion dates apply) including FREE standard car parking per visit! The Season Pass at just £58* is another fantastic way to experience the Power of the Towers, allowing days and days of fun during 2019. As an added bonus, all Season Pass holders will always be the first to know about the very latest news, with special offers and updates straight to their inbox!

44 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

For your chance to this fabulous prize please answer the following question:

Alton Towers Resort is celebrating which anniversary this year? a) 30th

b) 50th c) 40th

Email your answer to info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk. Please include your name, address and telephone number. Entries to arrive by Tuesday 30th April 2020. Winners will be notified by telephone. Specific Alton Towers Terms & Conditions

*T&Cs and Exclusion Dates apply for Standard Season Pass Standard Season Passes exclude: Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays in August. Scarefest & Fireworks. Premium Season Passes exclude Fireworks Events. 1 entry into The Alton Towers Dungeon per visit, pre-booked timeslot on day of visit, entry is subject to the Alton Towers Dungeons not being at full capacity. For more information about Alton Towers Resort or to book your fantastic escape, please visit www.altontowers.com. For all information regarding Alton Towers Premium Season Pass, please visit: https://www.altontowers.com/tickets/seasonpass/ Valid for entry from issue date until the end of the 2020 season – no prize extensions will be permitted. Exclusion dates apply for our Fireworks event Not valid on Theme Park closed days, see our calendar here: https://www.altontowers.com/useful-info/opening-times/ Each pass will have a photo & name on, so can’t be shared with someone else

helping you enjoy the great outdoors 01543 372400 Mon - Sat 9-4.30pm • Sun 10-3.30pm

K C O N N A If you’reC looking N A V forward to taking A R A C your caravan out on

NEW WEBSIT E LIVE!

• CARAVAN & MOTORHOME the team have worked hard “We’ve got an enormous range of AWNINGS to bring their customers the products on sale at our 12,000sq finest ACCESSORIES selection of caravanning ft store. Our caravan accessory • CARAVAN and camping accessories. ranges include everything from • FIAMMA AWNINGS gas fittings, electric equipment “We pride ourselves on the and lighting to TVs, barbeques, • CAMPING EQUIPMENT excellent customer service that homewares and even solar panels.” we offer. We are a friendly team,

the open road this summer, then you’ll EQUIPMENT enjoy the • ELECTRICAL need tohelping pay a visit you Motorhome knowledgeable and always ranges include • SECURITY on-hand to offer advice.” to Cannock great Caravan outdoors storage solutions, mirror • GAS guards, bike carriers and Accessories first. The company built an FT 12has ,00 0 SQ Fiamma/Thule products.

reputation on ARE caravanners HAPPY TO BRING 44 YEARS • WATERexcellent S HOWRbased StockingWE everything OOtopM the excellent service and Of course, all-manner OF INDUSTRY EXPERTISE TOthere’s OUR could possibly need – as WIT thatOthey • HEATING VEoffer. R quality products H of spare parts for caravans well as plenty for motorhome 30 AWNINGS PREMISES IN CANNOCK. and motorhomes too. owners and campers too - the And you don’t have to just visit independent family-run business the store to benefit because There’s also an impressive supplies customers with an we have a website that you selection of awnings from leading impressive range of products browse around too www. brands like Isabella, Kampa, from industry-leading brands. cannockcaravanaccessories.co.uk Dorema, Vango and Ventura. The Team explains: “Caravanning and camping is as popular as it’s ever been as more and more people want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and seek out an adventure – or maybe just some peace and quiet - in the great outdoors.

“Full awnings, inflatable awnings, porch awnings and motorhome awnings are all available at our store (over 30 on display).”

“Any website queries are dealt with by all members of the team in store - who can be contacted by telephone - and our online customers can also email our different departments directly.”

And when it comes to camping, there’s plenty to choose from So, whether you’re a seasoned as well: “You’ll find everything caravanner or maybe just you need for a camping trip, caravan curious, why not visit And Cannock Caravan Accessories frominfo@cannockcaravanaccessories.co.uk the tent!” 372400apart Email: Cannock Caravan Accessories can provide clientsTel: with01543 all those Unit 4 • –Watling Watling • WS11 9XGyour With morePark than•43 years ofStreet • Cannock and start planning essential – and luxury items Street Business getaway this summer? experience in the industry that’ll make their ONLINE: trip complete. www.cannockcaravanaccessories.co.uk BUY

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We want of knowledge in of theWe knowledge Travel Industry. in the She began Industry. her She began her of knowledge She began her Travel to thank all of in you the for yourTravel continuingIndustry. support! look forward to welcoming new clients and with our professional and friendly level of customer too will be booking yourDon holidays for manywith years toDon come”. Everall career with career Everall Transglobe, Transglobe, on to moving on to careerservice, withyouDon Everall Transglobe, moving on to moving for a specialist forofHaving apersonal specialist Company. Having Company. a Having a holiday to suit All theastaff at work Tracy Mason Travel offer Company. thework highest Cyprus levels service care and are dedicated to sourcing the perfect work for specialist Cyprus a andCyprus you and your budget. 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Tracy Mason Travel financially secure andWest holidays including flights are ATOL protected by the Government-backed Civil Aviation Authority tura ba Carlota Golf(CAA) Club, Carlota underElba our ATOL. For holidays and travel arrangements which do not include travel by air, our financial protection is administered by the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) under our membership L5132. views ean and over the ocean and is Elaine`s other passion Elaine`s is for other Florida passion is for sheFlorida can where she can Elaine`s other passion for Florida where she canwhere ome nd recommend friendly is an welcome is an recommend a variety recommend of accommodation a variety of accommodation from from a variety of accommodation from Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites lies and couples. town homes beautiful with a private homes hot tubawithin privatea hot tub within a beautiful townbeautiful homes with a private hottown tub within a with Indulgefrom in an all-suite, boutique styleperfect hotel experience with impeccable few miles from Disney, few miles the from perfect Disney, family villa perfect with family a villa with a few miles Disney, the family villa with a the service and inviting views. Sample the sublime food in a choice of four stel’s and guest suites rooms and 4* Elba 4* Elba Carlota Re oryouan private array pool of or an Ifarray you fancy of hotels. relaxing If you fancy relaxing fabulous restaurants. Insuites thepool evening, can beIf seated at fancy ahotels. candlelit table private pool orprivate an array of hotels. you relaxing on a pier overlooking and the shimmering sea and palm-lined beach. Dine on ed dard to and a high standard by the beach after by a the hectic beach time after at the a hectic parks time Elaine at will the parks Elaine will by themouth-watering beach after a hectic time the parks Elaine will Hal Mediterranean delights like at grilled swordfish or oysters and enjoy glass of to champagne as you marvel atinclude the unforgettable reeform iestailor including aafreeform tailor an itinerary tailor to an itinerary the Gulf to and include Coast, Miami the Gulf andCoast, Miami and an itinerary include the Gulf Coast, Miami scenery. The hotel’s spacious gardens and blissful pool offer even more From Birmi nd a the tennis gym, court gym, the Keys or a Elixir Caribbean thewillKeys Cruise. or a Caribbean Cruise. Keys or aand Caribbean Cruise. ways to unwind, while the luxurious Spa stir your senses with 7 nightsfl relaxing massage 7 nights including ed tiesdaytime and supremely activities and therapies and beauty treatments. ell . Children catered are for well catered for Travel and priva Tracy Tracy is celebrating Mason Travel their is celebrating 11th anniversary their 11th anniversary Tracy Mason isMason celebrating their 11th anniversary • BeachfrontTravel pool. and a separate pool. month. Weandall hope this month. youthat willWe hope agreeis you thatwill 11 years all agree is that 11 years is this month. Wethis you bars will agree 11allyears • 500m from thehope nearest shops, restaurants a huge achievement a huge for achievement any business! for any business! a huge• achievement for any business! 2km from Paphos resort centre Prices £58 ffers s buffet a sumptuous buffet • 3km from Paphos harbour. Savin pe st ning thedining whilst theand •Jackie, Approximate transfer time 30Elaine minutes Tracy, Jackie, Kerrie Tracy, and Elaine Kerrie canthe alland offer Elaine you can the all offer you the Saving £146.00 Tracy, Kerrie can allJackie, offer you ss tempting and lightlevels snacks and light before 30t highest levels of highest personal levels service personal and care service and areand care and are highest of personal service and care andofare For further details please contact Tracy Mason Travel dedicated sourcing dedicated the perfect to suit you holiday to suit you dedicated to sourcing thetoperfect holiday to sourcing suit holiday you thetoperfect and your budget. and We your specialise budget. in an We extensive specialise range in an of extensive range of and your budget. We specialise in an extensive range of earby ing,travel direct for from swimming, direct from UK breaks, travel to around UK breaks, the world to around tailor made the world tailor made UKtravel breaks, to around the from world tailor made door esyholidays bus andtoa to courtesy bus to holidays to your holidays dream destinations. to your dream We destinations. book through We book through your dream destinations. We book through uerteventura a de Fuste and Fuerteventura Stone Cross, Penkridge, Stafford all of the well-known all of operators the well-known including operators Classic,including Classic, all of the well-known operators including Classic, ST19 5AS - 01785 712332 Thomson, First Choice, Thomson, Choice, Cook, JetThomas 2, Olympic, Cook, Jet 2, Olympic, Thomson, First Choice, Thomas Cook, Thomas Jet First 2, Olympic, Kuoni plus manyKuoni more.plus many more. Kuoni plus many more.

Luxury Lux Fu of

STONE STC STONEST C

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK 2019 OUTLOOK | |APRIL APRIL 2020 erteventura port 4646 STAFFORDSHIRE Airport As independent we are totallywe As independent we totally we will source the we will source the As we are totally willare source theindependent ox 15 mins

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Welcome to a world of pure indulgence Welcome to our collection of exclusive escapes that are truly indulgent. It is our privilege to present an esteemed selection of five-star hotels with unsurpassed standards of service, décor and attention to detail. Whether it is a perfect serene retreat, a cultural gem or a grand residence, each of these luxury holidays is richly distinctive. It is time to escape to indulgence… •

Priority lane pass -Beat the queues for security checks at your UK airport

•

Complimentary in-flight drink

•

A complimentary gift

•

25kg baggage allowance

•

Private transfers included -Travel to and from your hotel in comfort and style

Stone Cross, Penkridge, Stafford ST19 5AS - 01785 712332 01952 321334 01952 321334| |WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 47 47

DYS L E X I A

AND VISION Olha Lac BSc (Hons) Dip ScV M.ASvP (Director Optometrist at Taylor Biddle Opticians)

Award winning Schoolvision practitioner Q. What is dyslexia? A. The word ‘dyslexia’ comes from the Greek and means ‘difficulty with words’. It primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent reading and spelling. It is believed to be one of the most common learning difficulties although many dyslexics are very bright and often have strong visual, creative and problem-solving skills. Many famous and successful people are known to be dyslexic. Q. What is Visual Stress? A. Simply explained, Visual Stress (also known as Visual Dyslexia or Irlen Syndrome) is a sensitivity to visual patterns, particularly stripes. It can occur when a white background appears to interfere with lines of black print and causes difficulties with visual processing of the reading content. Q. Is Visual Stress the same as Dyslexia? A. Visual stress is not the same as Dyslexia, but is more common in those who are dyslexic and can occur despite normal vision. It is thought that it affects 12% of the population and 65% of dyslexics. Many dyslexic people are sensitive to the glare of white backgrounds on a page, white board or computer screen. This can make the reading of text much more difficult. Q. What are the symptoms of Visual Stress?

reading content and are observed to fidget, move books around, skip words and lines and often rub their eyes and blink frequently. Frustration and low self-esteem can occur in children who are underachieving at school due to visual stress, therefore early diagnosis is essential. The longer it takes to identify and remedy visual stress, the greater the loss of confidence that can result. Q. My child has difficulty reading but I was told that his vision is normal? A. It is important to remember that normal sight may not necessarily be synonymous with normal vision. Reading is a complex task and involves many aspects. Most recent studies found that people with reading difficulties, such as dyslexia, are more likely to have unstable binocular vision at near distance, which means that their eyes have to work harder than usual to maintain alignment and tracking whilst reading and writing. Some of the conventional tests used in routine eye examination may not show this instability in children. I have used

SCHOOLVISION method for over six years with great success as its battery of tests are very accurate and are specifically designed for testing children. The results are confirmed with Clinical Eye Tracker which shows the stability of eye movement with and without the tint. Q. Is there a cure for visual stress? A. There is no “cure”, but visual stress can be reduced or eliminated by the use of coloured lenses worn in spectacles. These are prescribed following Colorimetry assessment when the precise tint is selected with the aid of INTUITIVE COLORIMETER, which produces thousands of colour combinations. The success rate in my practice is around 80%. Degree of improvement differssome individuals reach up to 150% increase in speed of reading, some about 20% due to other non-visual learning difficulties. Very often children move up several reading levels within a few weeks. Visual Stress screening cost £35. Please enquire for further information.

A. Sufferers may report movement and blurring of the text. Letters can appear to reverse or change shape. Halos, colours or patterns, sometimes described as “rivers” or “worms”. Red, sore eyes and headaches are also frequent complaints. These individuals often have poor comprehension of the 96 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020 48

wolverhampton west magazine

Huge collection of Rimless frames in stock

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RECIPE

Char-grilled lamb chops With roasted garlic, anchovies and asparagus Serves 6

I suppose the obvious recipe to do for Easter time is something with lamb, so here it is...Lamb chops with wild garlic and pumpkin seed pesto potatoes.

ingredients • • • • • •

1k of trimmed rack of lamb 900g of new potatoes 24 asparagus spears trimmed A small handful of mint leaves 6g fresh rosemary needles 2 garlic bulbs sliced down the middle • 150ml of rapeseed oil • 1 jar of ‘takefood preserves’ wild garlic and pumpkin seed pesto

• Maldon sea salt • Black pepper

EQUIPMENT • • • • •

Ribbed skillet pan or char-grill Chopping board and sharp knife Steamer Mixing bowl 2 baking trays

USEFUL INFO • • • •

Course: Easter lunch Oven temp: 180˚c Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes

METHOD

• Slice the lamb into chops and brush with rapeseed oil then season with salt and pepper. • Bend the asparagus spears at the ends where they will naturally break, discard the ends and brush the spears with rapeseed oil. • Put the potatoes on to steam, depending on their size they should take about 20 minutes (maybe longer - check with a skewer) • Put the skillet on the hob on high heat and allow to get really hot. (you may want to open the window) • Brush a little oil on the baking tray and slice the garlic bulbs down the middle then push around in the oil to coat. • Bake the garlic in the oven for about 12 - 15 minutes or until soft and lightly browned. • When the potatoes are completely soft throughout remove from the heat and set aside to cool slightly. • Char-grill the asparagus for about 30 seconds turning over to get an even charring then remove to the second baking tray. • Place the chops down on to the skillet and press down gently, grill for 2 minutes on each side and then place on the second baking tray with the asparagus and repeat until all the lamb is charred. Sprinkle over the rosemary needles and place in the oven for one more minute. (maybe longer if you prefer the lamb less pink but watch you don’t overcook the asparagus) • Serve the chops and asparagus on a board with mint leaves and garlic bulbs.

50 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

• Toss the cooled potatoes in the wild garlic and pumpkin seed pesto and serve to the table in a bowl. • Let everyone help themselves and pop open a bottle of crisp white wine such as Sancerre. • You can pop the garlic cloves out of their paper skins and spread on some sour dough bread if you have a loaf or just add to your plate as a condiment. • If you like a gravy with your lamb simply reduce some white wine and add chicken stock with any remaining meat juices and reduce then whisk in cold unsalted butter. Reduce until you have the thickness you desire.

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Get ready for the Spring Season at La Minky Winter is nearly over and Spring is around the corner…In this edition La Minky and the very talented hairdresser Russell Hickinbotham is going to be sharing he’s big influences for the spring season. BRONDE is the new Black! If you can’t make up your mind whether to go light or dark for this spring, then BRONDE is for you! A warm and glossy look and the main benefits of this hair colour is that it’s achievable and low maintenance.

OVERLAID BALAYAGE Balayage colouring technique overlaid with a quasi or semi-permanent colour to give a multi-tone blended affect.

Book your appointment with Russell at the salon, and give your hair a new spring colour.

Leanne Groom SPMU/Microblading Have you tried every pencil, powder, pigment, gel, and stencil at the makeup counter and still not satisfied with your brows? Then microblading could be for you!

MICROBLADING BENEFITS⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ • Saves time getting ready ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣• Low maintenance ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ • Natural looking ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣• Smudge free, • Sweat & water proof • Immediate results ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ • Lasts 1-3 years ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ • Adds shape, colour, length, thickness⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ Now is the perfect time to get your brows microbladed to ensure they are healed in time for summer! Please call Leanne direct to arrange your appointment 07557 885162

Aesthetics by Soraya Soraya is a medically qualified aesthetic practitioner based within La Minky. She offers a wide range of high quality aesthetic treatments in a calming and luxurious setting. Soraya’s most popular treatments are anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers where all treatments include: • An in depth medical consultation • A prescription issued by a GMC registered practitioner • Premium brands including Botox® and Juvéderm® from the world’s leading supplier, Allergan ® • Products dispensed from the most reputable pharmaceutical providers in the industry • A patient-involved treatment plan establishing goals, managing expectations and an action plan for treatment. • Tailored injection patterns and injection techniques to ensure best possible patient outcome • A FREE 14 day top-up if required (depending upon treatment) • Ongoing aftercare and support

Soraya is trained in complications and practices with safety and ethics in mind. Soraya also offers medically approved weight loss plans, specialist skin treatments and vitamin B12 injections.

Microblading is a form of tattoo artistry where pigment is implanted under your skin with a manual handheld tool instead of a machine. The tool is used to tattoo thin, realistic hair strokes which mimic the look of natural hair.

For a free consultation and to receive £10 off a treatment of your choice please quote this ad upon booking. To book please call 07487 777715 52 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

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After-care After-care service servic --------------------------for ourfor clients with our clients wit Aesthetics by Soraya hair extensions hair extensions

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Clinically Proven, FDA Medically Clinically FDA Medically Target Target Excess Excess Fat, Cellulite Fat, Cellulite • Clinically • Clinically Proven, FDAProven, FDA Medically Medically • • • Proven, The latest treatment to banish Target Excess Fat, Cellulite Target Excess Excess Fat, Cellulite Cellulite Target Excess Fat, Cellulite Target Excess Excess Fat, Cellulite Fat, Cellulite • &Target Instant Results forFat, Fat Reduction Cleared and Effective Cleared and Effective • Clinically Proven, FDA Medically • Clinically • Proven, Proven, FDA FDA Medically Medically Clinically Proven, FDA Medically &Target Tighten Skin • Clinically • • Clinically Clinically Proven, Proven, FDA FDA Medically Medically Tighten Skin Cleared Cleared and Effective and Effective & Tighten & Tighten SkinSkin unwanted fat permanently Cleared Cleared and and Effective Effective Cleared Cleared and and Effective Effective Cleared and Effective Cleared and Effective & Tighten Skin & Tighten & Tighten Skin Skin & Tighten Skin & Tighten & Tighten Skin Skin • The latest treatment to banish • The latest treatment to banish • The • latest The latest treatment treatment to banish to banish • • • Totally Non Invasive, • Undeniable results by up to Instant Results forFat FatReduction Reduction Instant Results for • Instant • Instant Results Results for Fat forReduction Fat Reduction unwanted fat permanently unwanted unwanted fat permanently permanently unwanted fat permanently • The latest treatment tobanish banish • The • The latest latest treatment treatment to banish to • fat The latest treatment tobanish banish • The • latest The latest treatment treatment to to banish 40% in only one treatment • Instant Results for Fat Reduction • Instant • Instant Results Results for Fat for Fat Reduction • Instant Results for FatReduction Reduction • Instant • Instant Results Results for Fat for Reduction Reduction unwanted fat permanently unwanted unwanted fat permanently fat permanently unwanted fat permanently • • • No Surgery, Needles,Fat unwanted unwanted fat permanently fat permanently • Totally • Totally Non Non Invasive, Invasive, • Undeniable • Undeniable results results by up by to up to Totally NonNo Invasive, Undeniable results by&up up to Totally Non Invasive, • • No Undeniable results by Surgery, No Scars Noto Downtime 40%40% in• only in only one treatment one treatment 40% inonly onlyresults one treatment 40% in one treatment • Totally Non Invasive, Undeniable results byup up to • Totally • Non Non Invasive, Invasive, • • Undeniable • results results by up by to up • Totally Totally Non Invasive, Undeniable results by upto to • Totally • Totally Non Non Invasive, Invasive, • Undeniable • • Undeniable Undeniable results by by to up to • No• Surgery, No Surgery, No Needles, No Needles, • • No No Side Effects, The treatment all the stars and • NoPain, Surgery, NoNeedles, Needles, No Surgery, No • No• Surgery, No• • Surgery, No Scars No Scars &inonly No &Downtime No Downtime 40% only one treatment 40% 40% ininonly only in one one treatment treatment 40% only one treatment 40% 40% in in only one treatment one treatment • celebrities No Surgery, No Scars & No Downtime No Surgery, No Scars & No Downtime have been shouting about No Downtime! • Side No Surgery, NoNeedles, Needles, • No • No Surgery, No No Needles, NoSurgery, Surgery, NoNeedles, Needles, • No • • Surgery, No Surgery, No No Needles, • No• Pain, No Pain, No Side No Effects, Effects, • The • treatment The • treatment all the all stars theNo stars and and No Surgery, No Scars No Downtime No • No Surgery, Surgery, No No Scars Scars No && No Downtime No Surgery, No Scars & NoDowntime Downtime No • • Surgery, No Surgery, No Scars &&&No Downtime No Downtime NoPain, Pain,No NoSide SideEffects, Effects, • • No The treatment allScars the stars and • • • The all the stars and celebrities celebrities havetreatment have beenbeen shouting shouting about about No Downtime! No Downtime! celebrities have been shouting about celebrities have been shouting The The treatment treatment all the all the stars stars andabout and • • The • • treatment treatment all the all the stars and and • The The treatment allstars thestars stars and • The treatment all the and celebrities have been shouting about celebrities celebrities have have been been shouting shouting about about celebrities have been shouting about celebrities celebrities have have been been shouting shouting about about

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6-38 36-38 Berry Berry Street, Street, Wolverhampton Wolverhampton WV1WV1 1HA1HA UltraSlim Clinics 0844 T: 0844 288 288 7297 7297 E: info@ultraslimclinics.com E: info@ultraslimclinics.com 36-38 Berry Street, Wolverhampton WV1 1HA

UltraSlimClinics Clinics UltraSlim

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36-38 Berry Street, Wolverhampton WV1 1HA 36-38 36-38 Berry Berry Street, Street, Wolverhampton Wolverhampton WV1 WV1 1HA 1HA 36-38 Berry Street, Wolverhampton WV1 1HA 36-38 36-38 Berry Berry Street, Street, Wolverhampton WV1 WV1 1HA 1HA T: 0844 288 7297 E:Wolverhampton info@ultraslimclinics.com T: 0844 288 7297 E: info@ultraslimclinics.com www.ultraslimclinics.com 0844 288 7297 E:info@ultraslimclinics.com info@ultraslimclinics.com T:T:0844 0844 T:T:T:0844 288 288 7297 7297 E: info@ultraslimclinics.com E: 0844 288 7297 E:info@ultraslimclinics.com info@ultraslimclinics.com T: 0844 288 288 7297 7297 E: E: info@ultraslimclinics.com www.ultraslimclinics.com www.ultraslimclinics.com www.ultraslimclinics.com www.ultraslimclinics.com www.ultraslimclinics.com www.ultraslimclinics.com www.ultraslimclinics.com www.ultraslimclinics.com 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK51 55

The Solihull Summer Fest returns to Tudor Grange Park in Solihull celebrating our 5th consecutive year. A 2 day Music Festival in the heart of Solihull on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th July 2020.

Billy Ocean is set to headline The Solihull Summer Fest main stage on Sunday 26th July 2020 at Tudor Grange Park. One of the biggest R&B recording stars that Britain has ever produced, the singersongwriter has sold more than 30 million records worldwide, achieving number one spot on pop charts in the UK, USA, Australia, Germany and Holland. Billy Ocean is the final act to be announced for the biggest line up to date at The Solihull Summer Fest. The TrinidadianEnglish musician won a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for Caribbean Queen and in 1987 was nominated for the BRIT Award for Best British Male Artist. His other hits include ‘When The Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going’, ‘Love Really Hurts Without You’, ‘Suddenly’ and ‘Red Light Spells Danger’. R&B legends, Kool and the Gang, promise a high-energy, soulful and funky set as they headline on Saturday 25 July, featuring hits such as ‘Celebration’, ‘Get Down On it’, ‘Ladies’ Night’, ’Jungle Boogie’, ‘Fresh’, “Let’s Go Dancin’ (Ooh La, La, La)” and ‘Cherish’. They’ve earned two Grammy Awards, seven American Music Awards, 25 Top Ten R&B hits, nine Top Ten pop hits, 31 gold & platinum albums and sold over 70 million albums worldwide.

56 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK

Saturday 25th July will see Kool & The Gang, Shaggy, Shalamar, The Brand New Heavies, Snap!, The Blow Monkeys and Rob Lamberti as George Michael taking to the main stage. In addition to Billy Ocean, the Sunday show features Tony Hadley, Belinda Carlisle, Leo Sayer, Bad Manners, Doctor & The Medics plus supporting tribute artist Rod & The Facez featuring Garry Pease. Each day runs from 12 midday until 10.30pm with live music, street food vendors, bars, entertainment and an exclusive VIP area. Organiser, Ian Rogers, said: “We’re delighted that so many incredible acts want to be a part of Solihull Summer Fest. The response to this year’s line-up has been fantastic and ticket sales so far have exceeded all previous years - we are currently on course to have a sell-out event. We cannot wait to welcome everyone for an incredible weekend of live music and entertainment.” Tickets are still available at Early Bird prices whilst stocks last. For more information and ticket options – including VIP and Premium choices - visit www. solihullsummerfest.co.uk or visit the Summer Fest Ticket Outlet at 150 High Street, Solihull, B91 3SX (opposite the Masons Arms).

We’re giving one lucky winner the chance to win a fantastic prize of a pair of day tickets for the Solihull Summer Fest 2020. To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and email your answer to info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk with your name, address and telephone number to arrive by Sunday 31st May 2020. Winners will be notified by telephone.

What are the dates for the Solihull Summer Fest 2020? Competition Terms and Conditions Winners to collect tickets from the box office at Solihull Summer Fest on the day of the show Saturday 25th or Sunday 26th July 2020. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash alternative prizes are available. Winner can attend either the Saturday show or the Sunday show.

Time for a change? No matter how bleak and stormy the weather has been over the winter months, the lighter spring evenings will soon be upon us. So, if you are a denture wearer what better time to think about getting ready for the lighter brighter months? Perhaps you even have a special occasion or event to aim for? Smiling and eating with confidence is something that most of us take for granted, but for those who need to wear dentures this can be a challenge. Over time dentures become worn and loose as the gums beneath them change shape and their chewing surfaces wear. This can often make a person look and feel older than they actually are and restrict their everyday pleasure of eating and talking comfortablyÂ Nobody can turn the clock of time back, but one of the biggest pleasures of our job at Smilecrafters is that we can often make a beneficial difference to peoples lives. Something that comes from taking the time to listen, after all you are the one that really knows what bothers you! We offer all new patients a FREE initial consultation at our modern friendly denture clinic and laboratory in Burntwood. Perhaps your dentures are loose and uncomfortable. Or perhaps you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like their appearance. At Smilecrafters our job is to listen and inform you of the modern treatment options that are open to you. Something that can range from a simple denture repair or clean, through to a new full set of dentures. Smilecrafters is a private denture clinic and laboratory in Burntwood. Run by husband and wife team Adrian and

British Dental Technology Clinically Compliant | Professionally Produced

Jacquelyn Rollings, who aim to provide a professional and discreet denture service for local people. Both Adrian and Jacquelyn are fully qualified Dental Technicians registered with the General Dental Council. Adrian has also undergone extensive further training to gain a Clinical Diploma that enables him to use the title Clinical Dental Technician. This means that he can make full dentures for you directly without the need for you to see a dentist and partial dentures if you obtain a prescription from a dentist. So why not give Adrian & Jacquelyn a call and book your FREE initial consultation at our friendly ground floor clinic in Burntwood. *Full dentures can normally be constructed without the need for you to see a dentist, partial dentures require a dentists prescription. Implant dentures over existing dental implants require a dentists prescription. New dental implants are not offered at Smilecrafters Denture Clinic, patients considering this type of treatment will be given the option of a referral to a local dentist who offers dental implant treatment.

01952 01952 321334 321334 || WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 57 51

Penkridge Parish Council

VE 75 Celebrations Programme of Events at the Haling Dene Centre Friday 8th May 2020 12 Noon Town Crier To Open the Afternoon Events Street Party for Children between 4 and 10 years of age* Goody Bag for Each Child - Traditional Party Games for Children Optional Fancy Dress with Prize for Best Dressed Child & Adult Fairground Rides - Punch and Judy - Magician - Balloon Making Families can have a picnic in grounds – weather permitting Public Bar Open from 12 noon to 5.00 pm 3.00 pm Winston Churchill Original Recorded Announcement

7.30 pm in room 1 - The Commodes with music from the 1940s up to present time Fancy Dress Optional - Tickets £5.00 ea. Public Bar Open

Sunday 10th May 2020 2:30 pm Band Concert with St John Brass Band Penkridge WI to provide Tea and Cakes Vintage Vehicles Display on the Front Car Park

plus Penkridge in the 1940’s A display of Photographs and Literature by Local Organisations * If you have not already returned the reply slip for the Street Party can you please do this no later than Friday 17th April 2020

58 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

Sue Starr

ESTABLISHED CLINICAL THERAPIST It is estimated that 1 in 6 adults in the last week have experienced a common mental health problem. Mixed anxiety and depression accounts for one fifth of sick days in the UK. And what cannot be measured, is the emotional impact on the individual plus their family and friends. The range of support is increasing but still massively under resourced. In 2017, the Government produced a green paper highlighting the importance of tackling mental health in the UK. Recognising that from an early age, people suffer needlessly, without realising that support is available. Many schools and universities recognise mental health challenges and encourage parents to identify this in their child’s development. Sue Starr is often recommended by local schools to parents whose children struggle with mental health.

relationships with local schools, GP’s and Dental Practices and seen a real shift in positivity towards the use of talking therapies”. She adds “we work with our clients to provide the therapy they need; be that hypnotherapy, NLP or CBT. Whichever is best suited to how the client would like to proceed and whichever gets the best outcome”. Sue has experience with a vast range of personal challenges and symptoms that people have been struggling with, sometimes for years. Her youngest client was 6 and oldest 84 showing that talking therapies really can be of benefit to anyone. www.suestarr-hypnotherapy.co.uk www.teenageemotionalstresstherapy.co.uk

01902

The NHS uses a range of talking therapies including hypnotherapy, CBT and others. But the resource is very limited, waiting times are weeks and quality of support varied. Sue Starr has been an established therapist since 2012 and has consistently worked with clients of all ages, backgrounds and conditions. Sue says “we have strengthened our

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SI CANNOCK & DISTRICT “Your Body, Your Rules” “Your Body, Your Rules” Ambassadors have been doing some fantastic work in our local schools over the last few months. The anti sexting [sending nudes] project has been developed and is overseen by Jackie Prince, June Bould and Trish Mellor of Cannock Soroptimists. At the update workshop held at Cardinal Griffin Catholic College, attended by 4 of the 5 schools, the Ambassadors reported on their work and their findings. Norton Canes High School and Staffordshire University Academy had run on-line questionnaires with Y8 students. This gave them a focus to work on with tutor groups: the legal aspect and also what ‘consent’ actually is. A video called ‘Tea and consent’ is used to enable the students to have a better understanding of giving – or not giving – consent. The questionnaire also gave them useful information for their schools regarding the % of young people who have received sent or forwarded a nude or semi nude photo. Cardinal Griffin Catholic College, Chase High School & Chase Terrace Technology College have presented to Y8 assemblies with follow up interactive workshops in tutor groups. All Ambassadors report that Y8 students have shown a lot of interest and have treated the matter very seriously. Most of them were amazed that it is illegal to send or receive a nude when under the age of 18, also that the legal age of responsibility is 10.

The Ambassadors, Y12 students, have plans for further activities within their schools, they will be inviting Soroptimists Jackie, June or Trish to observe what they do. The group discussed the future of the project. All schools reported on the very positive aspects, peer mentoring in particular, and all wish to continue the project next year. They have identified a need to provide awareness raising sessions with all school staff. The logistics of this are being considered but with the many demands on time within schools everyone knows this won’t be easy. The group would also like to find opportunities to present information to parents and will be investigating that, too. Cannock Soroptimists will be on hand to give whatever help or advice they can – they are extremely proud of the work the young people are doing. For more information about Cannock Soroptimists visit the club’s website: www.sigbi.org/cannock-and-district or their Facebook page www.facebook.com/SICannock;

GET PAID TO EXERCISE Distributors required for: Gnosall and Haughton To deliver a quality magazine every other month. Ideal for mature, semi-retired or mums at home. Competitive Rates of Pay. If you are interested please give Sharon a call on:

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STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

New Year, New Legs, New You New Year, New Legs, New You New Year, New Legs, New You Year, New Legs, New You 5 YOU KNOW ABOUT VEINS 5THINGS THINGS SHOULD KNOW ABOUTVARICOSE VARICOSE VEINS What Can IYOU do SHOULD About My 5New THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT VARICOSE VEINS Whilst these will help with symptoms, the only way to

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Varicose Veins?

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When your blood flows climbing improve circulation. When your blood flows Before Procedure Post Procedure cause of improve unsightly and symptomatic with minimal discomfort. with minimal discomfort. climbing circulation. When your blood flows detect the source of the problem and from the size and veins, especially in the groin whilst sitting and exacerbate with minimal discomfort. varicose veins. Mr Hobbs is the varicose veins. Mr Hobbs is the without restriction, your veins are less likely to experience without restriction, your veins are less likely to experience varicose veins. Mr Hobbs theless without restriction, veinsisveins. are likely to experience position, indicate the best treatment for you. the symptoms ofyour varicose Even small amounts of the pressure that causes varicose veins. the pressure that causes varicose veins. only surgeon in the West Midlands surgeon in the West Midlands theonly pressure causes varicose veins. only surgeon incan the West Midlands weight lossthat help with symptoms. currently offering the VenaSeal currently offering VenaSeal Recognised by Medical Insurers we also Recognised by all Medical Insurers currently offering thethe VenaSeal Recognised allmajor major Medical Insurers wealso also Recognised by all allbymajor major Medical Insurers wewe also Closure system, alongside other Closure system, alongside other self-referrals for self-paying patients. For accept self-referrals for self-paying patients. Wear compression stockings / socks: Compression socks accept 5. Professional Treatment Is the Only 5. Professional Treatment Is the Only accept self-referrals for self-paying patients. For Closure system, alongside other accept self-referrals for self-paying patients. ForFor 5. Professional Treatment Is the Only help with the flowsuch ofCompression blood out of the legs back to the heart further popular treatments as popular treatments such as information or to schedule aa Consultation further information orabout to schedule a Consultation further information treatments visit www. Certain Solution stockings can Certain Solution Compression stockings can popular treatments such as further information or to schedule Consultation Certain Solution Compression stockings can Your and can be bought cheaply from most chemists. Radiofrequency ablation, enabling Radiofrequency ablation, enabling visitvisit www.simonhobbsveins.co.uk www.simonhobbsveins.co.uk simonhobbsveins.co.uk or to schedule a Consultation minimise the effects of veins, but the only way to minimise the effects of varicose veins, the Radiofrequency ablation, enabling minimise the effects of varicose varicose veins, butbut the onlyonly wayway to toon visit www.simonhobbsveins.co.uk doctor may be able toveins give you medical grade stockings people to have their veins treated people to have their treated contact Gill on (01902) 793216. completely rid yourself of them is through treatment from completely rid yourself of them is through treatment from people to have their veins treated Before Procedure PostPost Procedure Before Procedure Procedure completely rid yourself of them is through treatment from Before Procedure Post Procedure prescription. with minimal discomfort. with minimal discomfort. with minimal discomfort.

Love Loveyour yourlegs legs

Love Loveyour yourlegs legs VARICOSE VEINS VARICOSE VEINS VARICOSE VEINS • are a source of are a source of • are a source of discomfort and can discomfort and can discomfort and can • also significantly also significantly • also significantly affect your selfaffect your selfaffect your self• esteem. Having esteem. Having • esteem. Having these assessed these assessed • these assessed and treated could and treated could • • and treated could be easier than be easier than • be easier than you think. you think. you think.

High quality varicose and • High quality varicose and High quality varicose and thread vein treatments thread vein treatments thread vein treatments Minimally invasive local • Minimally invasive local Minimally invasive local anaesthetic techniques anaesthetic techniques anaesthetic techniques Walk-in, walk out • Walk-in, walk out Please call Please call Walk-in, walk out Please call procedures procedures info@simonhobbsveins.co.uk info@simonhobbsveins.co.uk procedures info@simonhobbsveins.co.uk Quick recovery • Quick recovery Quick recovery www.simonhobbsveins.co.uk www.simonhobbsveins.co.uk www.simonhobbsveins.co.uk Insured and self • Insured and self Insured and self Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital paying patients paying patients Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital paying patients Wood Road | Tettenhall | Wolverhampton | WV6 8LE Wood Road | Tettenhall | Wolverhampton | WV6 8LE

07555 581698 07555 581698 07555 581698

Wood Road | Tettenhall | Wolverhampton | WV6 8LE

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www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

VARICOSE VEINS VARICOSE VEINS VARICOSE VEINS VARICOSE VEINS are a source of are a source of are a source of are a source of discomfort and can discomfort and can discomfort and can discomfort and can also significantly also significantly also significantly also significantly affect your selfaffect your selfaffect your selfaffect your selfesteem. Having esteem. Having esteem. Having esteem. Having these assessed these assessed these assessed these assessed and treated could and treated could and treated could and treated could be easier than be easier than be easier than be easier than you think. you think. you think. you think.

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Ford Focus ST Estate

BY ROB TAYLOR

IT WILL INSPIRE YOU

A mate of mine called Dave reckons that estate cars are always “cooler”. When pressed to elaborate he just shrugs in a ’nuff said sort of way, leading me, a determined exponent of conversation, to become frustrated and instead find out my own answers. Enter the Ford Focus ST estate or, because it is de rigueur, ‘Wagon’, to help with my investigations. Developed by Ford Performance and powered by a free-revving 280bhp 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, with six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmission (or a 190bhp 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine with sixspeed manual transmission) the new Focus estate is a visual riot upon the senses. It sounds great and it looks even better but better than the equivalent hatchback? Mmm, I’m not sure. I think it looks great in ST-spec with bigger wheels – and the more aggressive bodykits of STLine models do serve it well – but that’s not its inherent ‘estateness’ shining through, so the jury is out. Disregarding aesthetics entirely 62

now, I definitely support the value and virtues of estate cars in general: adding a tad extra metalwork behind the B-pillar for just a few more kilograms to give a titanic bump in useability and carrying capacity (608 litres) is a no-brainer. It allows you to take a Georgian wardrobe on a track-day with you, if you fancy, or, more sensibly, a decent load of kit on holiday. In fact, this Focus ST drives and handles so well that even encumbered with said load, I’m sure it would prove to be potent performer at any race circuit, with its Advanced Focus ST sports technologies, which include electronic limited-slip differential, rev-matching and selectable Drive Modes. 0-60mph in 5.8 seconds is a tenth slower than the hatchback but still perfectly adequate to destroy most opposition on the road – and because, of course, this is where the vehicle will spend most of its life, it’s reassuring to find the Focus to be an exceptional performer here too. Even though fuel efficiency isn’t record-breaking (around 35 mpg), the ST Wagon acquits itself well in the real world. It is priced from £30,595 for

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | APRIL 2020

the 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel variant, and from £33,095 for the 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol and the standard kit list is more than adequate to help while away the daily-driving grind. With an interior that borrows heavily from the new Fiesta and features an eight-inch screen with sat-nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, parking sensors and a reversing camera, as well as adaptive cruise control with lane-keep assistance and autonomous braking; part-leather, heated Recaro sports seats, a B&O stereo, keyless entry and adaptive LED lights, this Focus is fully-loaded. Inside the Focus is a pleasant place to be: there’s good head and leg-room and the cabin is intuitively laid-out; constructed out of a nice mixture of soft-touch finery and robust necessity. Spending a lot of time at the wheel in here will not weary you; if anything the characterful spirit of the Ford’s fizzy powerplant and dizzying handling abilities will encourage you to make each drive an event. Estate or not, the new Focus will inspire you; in ways I hope you’ll be able to put into words.

BY ROB TAYLOR

Suzuki Jimny

'LIGHTWEIGHT' AND 'COMPACT'

Looking like the lovechild of a Mercedes G-Wagen and a Land Rover Defender, the new Suzuki Jimny is a car we should all be grateful for. It’s instantly recognisable, impossibly small and, in every way, an almostinstant icon. It’s one of the few cars available to buy today that is without peer. It is defiantly unique at both its price-point (below £20K) and in its ethos. It eschews current trends which see every new vehicle moving closer and closer to being exactly the same as every other. It comes in vivid, almost day-glo green paint. But here’s the rub of the green: you’ll struggle to buy one, unless you want to pay over the list price because demand in the UK has been huge since it launched early last year. ‘Lightweight’ and ‘compact’ are watchwords at work here and both of which serve the little Jimny well, both on and off-road. Whether skipping across a mountain trail using four-wheel drive and a lowrange gearbox or nimbly plodding through city streets, this car is incredibly versatile. Be in no doubt this is a proper 4x4; it laughs in

the face of fashionable “SUVs” and rightly so. Built atop a traditional steel, ladder-frame chassis, with rigid front and rear axles with separate differentials, the Jimny has none of today’s more popular oily bits: no turbo, no hybrid-based gimmickry, and no diesel. There is merely a four-cylinder 1.5 litre petrol engine with 100bhp and 95lb ft, which you may think makes this little lump of honest metal a tad tardy off the line – and you’d be right, but then if you’re looking to whiz around in this you’re rather missing the point. Forget 0-60 mph, the Jimny demands a languid style of driving. Of course, there are other demands to be met as well, if you want to truly get along with the Jimny. Inside it really is a case of room for passengers or adequate boot space, never both at once. Tough and functional best describe the cabin but you can have luxuries like heated seats. The Jimny offers also the latest in safety technology as standard, with Dual Sensor Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning and a Weaving Alert; air conditioning, auto-headlights with High Beam Assist, front foglamps

and Bluetooth connectivity are also fitted as standard equipment. Overall, kit options on both the SZ4 and top-spec SZ5 are decent. If you’re not too fond of the person you’re sitting next to, you won’t enjoy a long journey in this car (the narrow cabin can be tight for the broad-shouldered): however, don’t think that’s because this car can’t handle a motorway. It can cruise ably; it isn’t short on pulling power or lacking refinement at high speed. Cabin noise is mild and the modest power-plant never feels strained. Fuel economy of around 40 mpg is realistic, but is obviously not the Jimny’s strongsuit. A sixthgear would help but I’m sure Suzuki has good reason for sticking to five. The Jimny should prove to be a fantastic vehicle to own. Residuals are predicted to be strong, bulletproof reliability is fabled and character is guaranteed. Plus, this box-shape styling never goes out of vogue; if anything it matures better with age, like a vintage Tonka toy. Grab yours now – if, and while you can.

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Index of Advertisers Bathrooms Carvers 17 Beds & Bedroom Furniture Britannia Pine 25 Roll a Robe 31 Beauty Salons & Clinics La Minky 53 Simon Hobbs Vein Clinic 61 UltraSlim 54/55

Driveways LF Home Improvements 40/41 Standeford Garden Construction 35 Financial Adviser Midland Independent FinancialÂ Services Limited

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Electrician Award Electrical

Building Services Lowes Building & Maintenance 25

Furniture and Furnishings Ralvern 12/13

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Carpets & Flooring Premier Carpets & Flooring

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning 23 Zero Dry Time

Garage Roller Doors Garolla Garage Roller Doors 19 Shield Roller Garage Doors 15

Composite Doors Clairs Composite Doors

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Glass & Hardware Specialists 2 Tech Alum Systems Ltd

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Loft Conversions Buckley Loft Conversions

Market Penkridge Market

Mobile Body-shop Paint Wizards

Damp & Loft Insulation Weatherdry Insulation Dentures Clinic Smilecrafters DIY/Paint Linwoods Trade Supplies

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Opticians Taylor Biddle

Restaurants The Kings Repose

Roofing 40/41 LF Home Improvements Roofix 31 Staircases Lyndale Ltd

Storage Barn Store Stafford

Tiles Tile Choice

Travel Agents Tracy Mason Travel

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Water Softeners Midland Water Softeners

Wills Goodwills 65 Windows Cloudy 2 Clear Tech Alum Systems Ltd

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3. The tip of the iceberg

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