Staffordshire Outlook August Stafford Edition by Staffordshire Outlook

staffordshire outlook Magazin e

Delivered to: Stafford, Penkridge, Acton Trussell, Little Haywood, Great Haywood, Forebridge, Hixon, Western Downs, Parkside, Haughton, Gnosall, Littleworth, Rowley Park, Derrington, Castlefields

August/September 2014 www.staffordshireoutlook.co.uk

Great prizes to be won inside this issue: Win a family ticket with lunch for WaterWorld Win tickets for The Full Monty at The Grand Theatre Win a pair of weekend tickets for the Stone Food & Drink Festival

August/September 2014

Inside: Restaurants, Motoring, Entertainment, Beauty, Home Furnishings, Interiors, Charities, Education and lots more! 01

Local magazine delivered to 20,000 selected homes and businesses*

Chase Grammar School

Educating your child from nursery to A level Family Atmosphere

Small Classes

High Expectations

Open Day Saturday 4 October 2014 11 am to 3pm

Formerly Chase Academy

Independent Co Educational School for 3 - 18 Years Scholarships, Bursaries and Transport available Contact Karen Anderson, School Secretary to make an appointment to visit the school STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 www.chasegrammar.com, tel 01543 501800, Convent Close, Cannock, WS11 0UR

A Message From The Hello readers, Welcome to the August/September edition of the Staffordshire Outlook magazine. Summer is finally here and we have had some fantastic weather so far, fingers crossed this continues throughout the school holidays. If you are off on your summer holidays do not forget to book an appointment at La Minky to get your top to toe summer treatments. Give your garden a brighter look with The Lighting Warehouse, or treat your family to dinner at the Kings Repose; see the full restaurant review on page 34/35. The winners from the June/July edition are below. Congratulations to all the winners and thank you to everyone who entered. We continue to have some lovely comments from the winners of the great prizes they have won in the magazine. Don’t forget to enter the competitions in this edition; including a pair of weekend tickets to the Stone Food & Drink Festival,

Winners of tickets for 20th Century Boy at the Grand Theatre Lesley Dyble, Haughton Josey Woodhouse, Little Haywood Sue Buckman, Acton Trussell Winner of an Overnight Stay, Breakfast & Dinner at the Swan, Stafford Steve Davis, Staffordshire

Staffordshire Outlook Magazine Ltd 30 Swinburne Close, Sutton Heights, Telford TF7 4PZ 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 Mal Caldwell - Editor Email: info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk Magazine design: www.s28.co.uk

Editor

tickets for the Full Monty at The Grand Theatre, and a family ticket including lunch for WaterWorld. You could be one of the lucky winners, good luck! Thank you to the readers who continue to support your local magazine the Staffordshire Outlook. We hope that you will use these reputable companies 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 Enjoy the sunshine, and your read…

Mal

Contents

Nuffield Orthopaedic Leaving a gift in your will Staffordshire regeneration moves forward Soroptimist International Cannock Lighter evenings Win tickets for The Full Monty Canalside Café now open Exceptional Sofa Makers St Michaels Fete Pride In Stafford winner 3 Choirs Concert Thank You! Greg Wallace - In Season Puzzles Chimney Safety Fireside Factory Stone Food & Drink Festival Winterwarmth 30th Aniversary British Heart Foundation Local Rock n Roll Band Harrisons Recipe of the month Restaurant Review at The Kings Repose Icook Indian Double Whammy for Blue Ginger Branston –The story of the famous pickle Carvers marathon Active Therapy WaterWorld Competition Tour De Stafford SUSSED at South Staffs Council La Minky – Top to toe for summer Cottage Surgery UltraSlim Beaufort Planning DSN Accountants 2014/2015 Tax Rates R.A.Kings Promise Dreams Toms Tipp Monkey Business by Rob Taylor Big & Scary by Rob Taylor Vauxhalls ADAM’s breaks mould New Nissan Juke The Mitsubishi Outlander Index of advertisers Puzzle Solutions You can with a Campervan Four Ashes Renault

4 6 8 8 9 10 12 13 14 16 16 16 20 22 24 25 26 27 28 30 31 32 34/35 36 37 38 40 41 42 42 43 44 46 46 50 52 53 54 54 56 57 58 60 62 64 64 65 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.

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

Motion to in ck a b u o y g in tt e G Hospital Health Wolverhampton

Orthopaedic Surgery

at the Nuffield

With ever increasing waiting lists on the NHS for orthopaedic surgery why wait? We have been successfully treating orthopaedic problems for over 50 years. We treat everything from arthritic joints through to numerous types of sports injuries. So when you are in pain and your ability to move is restricted, it is important to find out how to treat the problem. Our Orthopaedic consultants are experts in the field with years of specialist experience. They are all registered with the GMC (General Medical Council). The majority of our Orthopaedic Consultants specialise in an area of the body. These subspecialities can vary, but predominantly categorised into hip, knee, shoulder and elbow, hand and wrist, foot and ankle and spinal surgery. Some of the common conditions that we treat are: Knee Treatments • Anterior or posterior cruciate ligament repair

Spinal treatments • Facet joint injections • Discectomy • Epidurals Your consultant may recommend a conservative course of treatment for your symptoms, such as medication, physiotherapy or injection therapy, rather than a surgical procedure.

• Total knee replacement

Prior to making any decision about recommended treatment, your consultant will explain the full risks and benefits and give you an overview of what to expect from your treatment and recovery.

Hip Treatments

Imaging and Diagnostics

• Hip resurfacing

We have a diagnostic suite with x-ray, and ultrasound scanning equipment with MRI and CT scanners. MRI and CT scan are used to investigate soft tissue such as ligaments and tendons and are routinely used by orthopaedic surgeons.

• Arthroscopic keyhole knee surgery • Unicompartmental knee replacement

• Hemiarthroplasty • Total hip replacement Foot and Ankle Treatments • Tendon and ligament repair and reconstruction • Arthroscopic (Keyhole) examination and repair • Toe surgery • Bunions Upper Limb Treatments • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • Dupuytren’s release • Ganglion Cyst • Trigger Finger • Shoulder surgery for rotator cuff repairs or impingement • Shoulder replacement surgery • Tennis elbow/golfers elbow

Physiotherapy We have our own in-house Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation department for in-patient and outpatient care. Our physiotherapists bring a high level of experience and expertise so that you can be assured of the highest quality of care and will provide you with the most effective and appropriate treatment to help you recover your full health and wellbeing in the shortest time possible. You can self-refer for physiotherapy consultations. Appointments can be scheduled by contacting the department direct on 01902 793224.

This article was provided by The Nuffield Health Group www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals 04

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

How you can Get the Nuffield Treatment Our services are available to everyone, whether you have private healthcare or are paying for yourself. The following simple steps outline how you can get fast access to diagnosis or treatment: • Visit your GP and let them know you would like to be referred to us here at the Nuffield • Your GP can write you a letter of referral which will detail the care you need or they may suggest which consultant you can see If you are medically insured: • Call your insurance provider and they can confirm which consultants and healthcare professionals are covered under your membership and that the treatment you need is covered by your policy. They will issue you with a “pre-authorisation” number If you are Paying for Yourself • Following your initial consultation, you can pay for further consultations and treatments as a one off payment or you may be eligible to use our financial partner, First Medical Loans, to spread more manageable payments. First Medical Loans offer interest-free loans* for up to 10 months. All our prices are totally transparent, including all costs up front – with no hidden extras. • Contact your consultant or healthcare professional and arrange an appointment that suits you For further information on our orthopaedic services or if you would like to make an appointment with one of our highly experienced orthopaedics consultants please call 01902 275241 where we will be happy to help you every step of the way!

Our Orthopaedic specialists and Physiotherapists help you get back to doing the things you love Nuffield Health provides personal care before, during and after surgery to guarantee you a comfortable recovery. So when it comes to your bones don’t just go private, go personal.

Get in touch. And get on with your life 2

01902 275 241 Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 8LE nuffieldhealth.com/wolverhamptonhospital

*Not including private patient units at NHS hospitals. Local area defined as within 15 miles of the Nuffield Health hospital. We will match against written quotes only. Promise is valid for patients paying for themselves. **Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. “Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention. ***Subject to status.

1217_Wolverhampton_Ortho_surgery_Ad V2.indd 1

15/05/2014 16:29

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

“Leaving a Gift in your Will”

WHAT IS A WILL FOR? For most people it’s one way to look after people we care about once we have passed away. It’s an opportunity to make your wishes known and have them recorded before death.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT Why not leave a Legacy Gift to Compton Hospice?. A gift, no matter how small will help to ensure that anyone who requires services from Compton Hospice will receive prompt and professional help.

WHERE DOES MY LEGACY DONATION GO? It costs around £6 million pounds per year to fund the quality services at Compton Hospice so we rely on donations and Legacies to continue the work already provided here.

HOW CAN I LEAVE A GIFT IN MY WILL? If you havn’t already done so consider how you would like to help and how much you wish to leave and contact a Solicitor who will give you the correct advice and help. Always ask for a cost for services before you start.

WHAT IF I ALREADY HAVE A WILL? No problem just ask your solicitor for a codicil form or down load one from our website www. compton-hospice.org.uk complete it and store it with your will. Do not pin or staple it.

DO I NEED A SOLICITOR TO MAKE A WILL? It is advisable to use a solicitor. They are in the best position to ensure that your will has been drawn up in the correct way.

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

“Leaving a Gift in your Will”

WHAT WAYS ARE THERE TO LEAVE A GIFT TO CHARITY? Residuary Gift This an amount specified after the will content has been shared. Anything left over is the residue and this amount can be all or part of the residue. Percuniary Gift This is a fixed sum of money stated in the will. Specific Gift These are called Chattels and moveables They could be personal possessions, including furniture and cars.

CAN I AMMEND MY EXISTING WILL? Yes, by completing a codicil form available from a Solicitor or Charity.

IS THERE A MINIMUM AMOUNT I CAN LEAVE? No any amount or donation is most welcome. Should you wish to consider leaving a Legacy to Compton Hospice and would like a copy of our will guide please complete the slip below and return to COMPTON HOSPICE, THE CEDARS, 39 COMPTON ROAD WEST, WOLVERHAMPTON, WV3 9DW. Alternatively if you wish to speak to a member of the team, please call 0845 225 5497 and ask for Mary Harding in Fundraising /Legacies

PLEASE SEND A COPY OF THE COMPTON HOSPICE WILL GUIDE First Names:

✂

Surname:

Address: Postcode: Email:

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

moves forward n o ti a er en g re e tr n ce n Stafford tow

Mark Winnington at the Riverside site

Regeneration of Stafford town centre is moving forward as the development of a major retail site enters its next phase. Regeneration of Stafford town centre is moving forward as the development of a major retail site enters its next phase. Staffordshire County Council’s highways team is reminding people that pavements and paths around the Riverside site will be closed from July 14 for the duration of the development. The £70million scheme will see a new Marks and Spencer, Primark and other big name retailers open in 2016. Work is now starting on the South Walls site following the demolition of the former Tesco car park on the opposite side of the river. In order for the work to be carried out safely, the footpath along 08

Queensway will be closed, in addition to the path along the river next to the site and the pavement on the south side of South Walls. At Kingsmead, the Morrison’s site development will start in mid-July with the demolition of empty houses on North Walls. This will involve a pavement closure before the main works begin in October. Staffordshire County Council’s economy leader Mark Winnington said: “With the Riverside development progressing and work also starting at Kingsmead, we can really see the regeneration of Stafford town centre moving forward. It comes at the same time as the business development we are carrying out at Redhill and supporting on Beaconside, resulting in hundreds of jobs being created and the county town becoming a more attractive place to live, work and visit. “In order to carry out the work safely and efficiently, paths around the site will need to be closed off for the duration of the development.

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

There will be alternative routes so we would ask people to bear with us.” Stafford Borough Council’s cabinet member for planning and regeneration Frances Beatty said: “It is good to see the work the borough council has been doing with developers and businesses starting to come to fruition. In our many discussions and negotiations with major retailers and developers it is clear they are impressed with the vision we have for our borough and that brings with it the confidence for them to invest in Stafford.” The scheme will regenerate the site of the old Riverside recreation centre and the former Tesco site. It will include 18 retail units over 190,000 sq ft. A new multi storey car park will provide over 1,000 spaces with ground floor retail and leisure units facing the river. In addition there will be 180 spaces in a sub-basement car park under the Marks and Spencer store.

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Lighter evenings at The Lighting Warehouse Lighter evenings are here at last. This is the time of year when our gardens become an extension of our homes. Lazy evenings spent relaxing with family and friends at a BBQ perhaps. To create the perfect setting visit Paul at The Lighting Warehouse for advice on lighting for your decking or discrete lighting to highlight an ornamental feature or pond. How about a more functional lamppost for the drive way or indeed an outside lamp or a security light by the door or gateway? When the evening turns chilly, you can retreat

into the conservatory. The Lighting Warehouse has a large range of lamp bases and shades or decorative up lighters ideal for lighting up your conservatory. To add to your comfort why not install a fan to cool you down when the temperature rises. On the other hand if you prefer to make the most of the longer lighter evenings by decorating, call in at the Lighting Warehouse for some illuminating ideas. Remember, to ensure you achieve the effect you desire the home consultation is available all year round.

The Lighting

Warehouse We offer a home consultation service, to see your ideas lit up in your home.

We stock an extensive range of traditional, modern and contemporay lighting. Unit 22 Longford Industrial Estate, Longford Road, Cannock WS11 0DG

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Competition e tr a e h T d n ra G n to Wolverhamp

Three lucky winners can each win 2 tickets to see The Full Monty on Monday 24th November at 7.30pm The sensational new smash hit! The Full Monty comes to the Grand Theatre Wolverhampton from Monday 24th to Saturday 29th November. In 1997, a British film about six out of work Sheffield steelworkers with nothing to lose, took the world by storm! Now, they’re back and this time they really have to go The Full Monty…live on stage. Simon Beaufoy, the Oscar winning writer of the film, has gone all the way with this hilarious and heartfelt adaptation that’s getting standing ovations every night. With songs from the film by Donna Summer, Hot Chocolate and Tom Jones, this award-winning production is one huge package of laughs and emotion coming to Wolverhampton direct from

London’s West End starring GARY LUCY, ANDREW DUNN, LOUIS EMERICK, RUPERT HILL, MARTIN MILLER and BOBBY SCHOFIELD. This Sheffield Theatres production is presented by David Pugh & Dafydd Rogers, the multi award-winning producers of ART, Brief Encounter and Calendar Girls

To book tickets please call the Box Office on 01902 42 92 12 or visit our website at www.grandtheatre.co.uk where you can also find details on our Accessible Performances. To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and email your answer to info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk or on a postcard to 30 Swinburne Close, Sutton Heights, Telford, Shropshire TF7 4PZ with your name, address and telephone number to arrive by Monday 15th September 2014. Winners will be notified by telephone.

Name the Tom Jones song that the Full Monty perform to? A It’s Not Unusual B Delilah C Leave Your Hat On Competition Terms and Conditions Winners to collect tickets from the box office on the night. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash alternative prize nights available. Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity.

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

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! New Business is Open

Excitement is growing at Canalside Farm, near Stafford as the new Canalside Café opened on the 14th July. The new Café, which has created 14 new jobs, will be able to seat 72 customers inside, plus an additional 35 people outside, and will serve a wide variety of locally sourced food, overlooking the beautiful Trent and Mersey canal. Owners Chris and Wendy Barton, who have been growing their own produce on the Farm for over 25 years, have been planning the new development for several years, with the vision that wherever possible, the food is served straight from ‘field to plate’. The new menu will feature produce picked straight from the Farm such as their delicious strawberries and asparagus, as well as meat fresh from their Butchery counter. Customers can look forward to sampling dishes such as Asparagus & Goats Cheese Quiche; Succulent Chicken Fillet Stuffed with Fresh Asparagus and Blue Cheese, as well as mouth-watering afternoon teas with their home-made strawberry jam. The Farm’s Butchery counter will also be kept busy supplying the new catering outlet, with their own Sausages; Minted Lamb Burgers and Gammon steaks, as well as plenty of home-cured bacon for all those Full English Breakfasts.

Owner Chris Barton said: “Our aim in both the Farm Shop and the Café has always been to source local food and drink, from farms and producers within a 30 mile radius, whilst continuing to produce our own fruit, vegetables and bedding plants right here on the Farm. Now with the new development of the Canalside Café, we hope that people will be able to come here not only to shop, but also to relax and unwind.” The new development was given the go ahead after owners Chris and Wendy proved what a huge success they could make of their new Farm Shop, which has been so busy they have recently had to recruit additional staff, taking the total number of shop staff to 12! They are now looking for a new apprentice for their Butchery Department, which has seen a staggering 46% increase in sales and is set to get even busier, once the new Café opens. Anyone wishing to apply for the apprentice position, should send their CV to: info@canalsidefarm.co.uk or drop their CV in to the Farm Shop itself. Canalside Farm Shop is located in Great Haywood, just 6 miles from Stafford. It is situated just off the A51, between Stone and Rugeley (postcode ST18 0RQ).

For directions and general information please see their website www.canalsidefarm.co.uk 12

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

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Upholstered to your Specification Whatever you requirements are, whether it’s a suite, sofa, chair, corner suite, footstool or reupholstering your own suite. Ralvern Ltd has the expertise to manufacture a style from our own range, or create a unique design using our bespoke design service. Our team of highly skilled master craftsmen can create the style you are looking for, even helping you make all of the difficult choices for the whole room design. Ralvern tailor your requirements into every individual piece of furniture that we make.

We make all of our frames in house so this gives us our high level of exceptional quality; it’s your choices that make every sofa we manufacture unique to you. We offer a range of seat foams 35oz reflex soft or for a firmer seating profile we offer a foam 55oz reflex firm, alternatively if you require the very soft squashy look a fibre seat or even feather cushions to suit your taste. The seat filling then sits on top of our superior coil spring unit giving the very best sitting position. Any of our designs can be made in a choice of all our extensive fabric range.

back to the frame and then start it again like a new one, using all new foams and fillings to recreate the design you know and love, for either of the above new or reupholstery our reputation for a meticulous high standard and pattern matching will speak for its self. Contact us for one of our new brochures. www.ralvernupholstery.co.uk Tel: 01543 505539 Fax: 01543 573119 Simon Edwards @ Ralvern Ltd Unit 19 Martindale Business Park Hawks Green Cannock Staffordshire, WS11 7XN

Exceptional Quality Re-Upholstery Ralvern Upholstery are renowned and highly recommended reupholstery master craftsmen , if what you are looking for is a reupholstery service then you have to come to the professionals. Our team can totally strip your old suite

Bespoke Sofa Manufacture & Re-Upholstery Specialist Our team of highly skilled professional craftsmen, create and manufacture sofa’s from design, for a living space that is truly unique. Coupled with our huge selection of fabrics we have the ability to create almost any type of bespoke design. Using traditional skills, we can also strip down your old suite or sofa and re-create the original design with our superior re-upholstery which is highly renowned for its finish and meticulous detail. For a truly unique and individual lounge setting we welcome you to our factory showroom to see what we can create for you.

Contact Simon Edwards or Chris Edwards on 01543 505539 Email: sales@ralvernupholstery.co.uk www.ralvernupholstery.co.uk Unit 19, Martindale, Hawks Green, Cannock, Staffordshire - WS11 7XN

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

urch Fete

ngels Ch St Michael’s and All A The annual church fete was held recently at the Haling Dene Centre. Attendance figures were amongst the highest for several years and ‘fete goers ‘enjoyed the sunshine all afternoon. The excellent weather encouraged the owners of several prestige and classic cars to attend and the fete queen and her attendants were treated to their customary journey around the village in a locally owned vintage 1937 Black Bruick. To start the proceedings, last year’s fete queen, Amy Joyce, crowned the new queen Bella Price. The attendants for this year were Ruby Davis, Ellie Brown and Lexi Hayward. The fete was officially opened by Bella and the entertainment programme commenced with the Cannock Performing Arts Wind Band.

David Pearce with his tractor – part of the prestige and collectable car rally

Other performers during the afternoon included Newport & Penkridge Tigers Tae Kwon Do, Dene Dance School and St Michael’s First School Choir. The Round Table members manned their mega BBQ which again was an early sell out. Mr and Mrs Caine cooked delicious pancakes and afternoon teas were available courtesy of Penkridge Royal British Legion. The competition for baking and handicraft ‘All Around the World’ had categories for adults and children. Winners of the competitions were Mary Maiden, Debbie Wilkes, Harvey Pitt and Dulcie Brewer. The Grand Draw attracted a lot of attention with people hopeful of winning cash prizes and a chocolate hamper donated by the fete committee members themselves.

L-R: Attendants Ellie Brown, Lexi Hayward, Ruby Davis, fete queen Bella Price

Bella Price, Ellie Brown, Lexi Hayward, Ruby Davis

Newport and Penkridge Tigers Tae Kwon Do with instructor Dan Moffett on the right

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

Parishioner David Pearce kindly lent his tractor to the Pipe Organ Restoration Appeal for their information stall. The old favourites stalls of tombola, coffee jars, plant sales, guess the teddy name, children’s tombola, bric-a-brac and Coconut Shy were manned by the Inner Wheel, Widows Club, Women’s Institute, Penkridge Rotary Club and Civic Society. Fete Committee member Nigel Woodward arranged for a football to be signed by the Wolverhampton Wanderers players for which a separate raffle was held and the winner was Charlotte Harrison. The proposed date for next year’s fete is Saturday June 21 2015. All images provided by Debbie Cooper

Part of the collection of cars

Rachel Beard and Nigel Woodward – plant stall

Ladies of the Inner Wheel tombola stall

Household Improvements • Alterations & Refurbishments Conservatories • Kitchens & Bathrooms • Driveways

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AJG Property Maintenance and Servicing Ltd provide an extensive range of property repair and maintenance services, including Household Improvements, Alterations & refurbishments, Kitchens and Bathrooms, Conservatories and Driveways. We have many very satisfied residential customers who regularly use our property maintenance services.

So why not let us take the strain out of improving and maintaining your home to the standard you expect, contact us. We’re here to help. Our residential customers can be confident that we meet recognised quality standards.

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Winner Pride in Stafford Overall

ta de o Standeford Garden Construction Established 1954

FAMILY RUN BUSINESS • Block paving • Indian stone paving • Tarmacing • Turfing • Slabbing • Fencing

The Swan in Stafford has been voted the best business in the town. The hotel, restaurant and bar were named the “Overall winner” in the pride of Stafford awards at a ceremony on the 3rdJuly. The Swan said “we are delighted to have been awarded overall winner in

the recent Stafford Town Centre Partnership ‘Pride in Stafford’ awards. Pictured here are members of the hard-working Swan team receiving the prestigious award from the Mayor of Stafford. We also went on to be awarded Winner of the Best Eatery category and Runner Up in the Best Bar/Club category. Many thanks to all who voted for us!

• Site clearance • All general landscaping • Suppliers of stone, soil, sand etc. Like our page •on Facebook Standeford Garden Construction

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OLD STAFFORD ROAD, COVEN

of 3 Choirs Concert in Aid the Royal British Legion The wonderful voices of 3 Choirs will entertain audiences when the choirs appear together at St Stephen’s Church, Cannock WS11 1QD on Saturday 13th September at 7.30pm. The guest choirs include: Chase Choral Society Mixed Voice Choir, The Cannock Ex Servicemen’s Male Voice Choir, The Gospel Choir-Inspiration, and Soloist Diane Gunn.

The Choirs are joining together to give an unforgettable evening of song in commemoration for the First World War Soldiers. All proceeds will go to the Royal British Legion. Tickets are priced at £7 including refreshments. For tickets call 01543 578586 or 01922 451192 or tickets can be brought from the Ex Servicemen’s Club, Walsall Road, Cannock.

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

L-R: Jenny Barron, Press Officer, Donna Louise Friends Group, Ray Barron, Barbara Riddle, Chair, Donna Louise Friends Group, Natalie Wood, Fundraiser, Donna Louise Hospice, Dr Janet Lefroy and Jeremy Lefroy MP

Thank You! A fundraising event was organised by the Stafford Friends Group of Donna Louise Children’s Hospice. This was held on Friday 4th July at the Conservative Hall, Stafford. It was a Cosmopolitan theme and around 90 people supported the event including our guest of honour Mr Jeremy Lefroy MP and his wife Dr Janet Lefroy. The evening included a 3 course meal with wine, music by the Crooked Bawbees, a quiz and a

raffle. A total of £1600 was raised for the Donna Louise, Children’s Hospice. A big thank to all who attended, to everyone who donated food and the Grand Theatre that supplied 2 tickets for a show, committee members and volunteers that made this event possible. Our next fundraising event will be a Silent Auction and a meal on the 19th September. For further information or tickets please phone 01785 226866

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Success at Chase Gra It is stating the obvious but our primary role as a school is to educate children. There is no doubt that we are very good at this and our success over a number of years is testament to that. Taking the average over the last five years our percentage of five A*-C grades (including English and Maths) at GCSE is over 93%. At A level our students regularly perform better than most of the other schools in the county. Yet there is more to education than just exam results. We start with the very youngest at three years old and we watch them grow and develop into young adults. We watch as their faces change and their limbs grow. They mature and blossom into the lovely young people that we know extremely well. We teach an academic curriculum here but we focus on teaching it slowly and carefully. Our very youngest learn much through play. As they learn to read and write we do not to rush on to the next topic just because the curriculum says that we must. Instead we make sure that the children understand and we do not move on to something else more difficult before they are ready. To us it is obvious that rushing at new ideas is foolhardy. The danger is that the child gives up trying if they have no secure

understanding of the basics. So if a child does not yet know their 5 times tables it is pointless to move on to the more complex 7 times table or begin long multiplication. If they cannot read level 12 of the reading scheme fluently then we read more widely at that level until they can, rather than introducing new and more complex vocabulary. As the children join our senior school the education begins to focus more precisely on those measurable targets of GCSEs and A levels. We have a programme of early GCSEs which begins in year 8 for some and in year 9 for all. We build their confidence with success which in turn comes from determination. Most of our children pass their GCSE Maths in year 8 but all pass in year 9 before proceeding to year 10. The idea is that they pass the foundation paper and then build on that success. It is that same idea again of getting

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

the basics right before moving on to do more complex work. Our students thrive and do well. They are not all natural geniuses but they are all individuals who want to do the best that they can. It is our children who are our best adverts. On Open days we allow our children to take our visitors around the school and they talk freely. They may not always wax lyrical about us as a school, indeed they will tell it as it is, warts and all. (Of course every school has warts!) However, the parents never fail to be impressed by the confidence with which the children carry out their ambassadorial role, even the quiet and shy ones who have been coerced by friends and parents into offering their services. If you can make it to an open day do come along.

Our next Open Day is Saturday 4 October, 11am to 3pm.

3 Strip EnginEErEd Flooring now only £19.99sqm • Full Fitting Service • Free estimate/measuring service • All types of flooring available • Samples service in the comfort of your home

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C a r p e t s ∙ V i n y l s ∙ Wo o d s ∙ b e d s ∙ V i n y l s ∙ l a m i nat e s ∙ Wo o d s

C a r p e t s ∙ V i n y l s ∙ Wo o d s ∙ b e d s ∙ V i n y l s ∙ l a m i nat e s ∙ Wo o d s 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

QUICK CROSSWORD

Across 1 Cut short (4) 3 Adversary (8) 9 Error (7) 10 Board game (5) 11 Very eager (12) 13 Informal (6) 15 Small piece of food (6) 17 Books giving meanings of words (12) 20 Relating to the moon (5) 21 Absence of sound (7) 22 Moving very fast (8) 23 Spheres (4) Down 1 Business (8) 2 Start of (5) 4 Written in rhyme (6) 5 Now and then (12) 6 Protect the eyes (7) 7 Throw (4) 8 Produced (12) 12 Small bunches or groups (8) 14 Physics or chemistry (7) 16 Untie (6) 18 Lying within (5) 19 Add to (4)

SUDOKU

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STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

ATTENTION

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We now stock an extensive range of Cane Furniture

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Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm Sunday & Bank Holidays 10am-4pm

Unit 9b, A5 Watling Street Business Park, Cannock, Staffordshire WS11 9XG Situated on the A5 01952 just before Brownhills heading from Cannock | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 321334

r Consumers fo ce vi d A ty fe a S ey n Chim from the hearth and mantelpiece, and perhaps you could clear the grate of any fuel, ash or rubbish etc before the sweep arrives.

UK fire statistics show that each year on average over 30 thousands houses have chimney fires. This will be largely due to not getting the chimney swept often enough or burning fuel that is inappropriate for the appliance and causing tar to build up in the chimney. Most insurance companies will no longer pay out for claims made due to chimney fires unless the chimney has been swept by a professional chimney sweep and a valid certificate of sweeping issued that is recognised by insurance companies. If the fire brigade is called out to a chimney fire and it is proven that the chimney has not been properly maintained, then the local council can bill you for the call out, which can be expensive! Chimney fires can not only destroy homes but also endanger the occupiers of the dwelling. Slow-burning chimney fires don’t get enough air or have enough fuel to be as dramatic or visible as their more spectacular cousins. The temperatures they reach are very high and can cause damage to the chimney structure

and nearby combustible parts of the house. Use only recommended fuels for your appliance and flue type (if you are unsure check your manufactures instructions, ask your stove supplier, or a NACS Chimney Sweep). Chimneys need to allow the free passage of dangerous combustion gases. Regular sweeping will remove soot, bird nests, cobwebs and any other blockages. It also removes creosote, which will help to prevent dangerous chimney fires. Chimney Sweeping will also help to increase the efficiency of appliances. The frequency of Chimney Sweeping will depend on a number of factors which include the type of fuel used, appliance, duration of use, moisture content of wood fuel, and the type of chimney you have. Your local NACS Chimney Sweep will be able to advise on the sweeping frequency during the appointment The sweeping frequencies below are for guidance purposes only: • Smokeless Fuel: At least once a year • Wood: Quarterly when in use • Bituminous Coal: Quarterly when in use • Oil: Once per year • Gas: Once per year NACS Chimney Sweeps are very mindful and conscious of making as little mess as possible, and are in fact trained in the prevention of dust escaping during sweeping. Normally Chimney Sweeps will need a clear passage to the chimney and adequate space to work in. They may suggest you clear any ornaments

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

Gas and oil flues will also need to be swept. It is essential that all flues are kept clean and clear of debris and vermin nests. It will also help with the prevention of chimney fires and even carbon monoxide poisoning. If you have just moved house, then it is important you have your chimney swept as soon as possible as you may not necessarily know when it was last cleaned properly by a professional Chimney Sweep. Always ensure you receive a NACS Certificate of Chimney Sweeping. Your Chimney Sweep will also provide advice on your Chimney, heating appliances, what fuels to use, and the best practice for fuel storage. Chimney Sweeps that are Members of the National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS) undertake an extensive training program and have to successfully complete a full assessment prior to becoming and trading as a NACS Member. All NACS Members must hold valid insurance for Chimney Sweeping, of which they provide a copy of to the Association on an annual basis. They must also have the correct equipment to be able to undertake the job which is checked at the time of their assessment. You can search for a NACS Chimney Sweep in your area by visiting the NACS website www.nacs.org.uk. NACS Chimney Sweeps are: • All trained and qualified • Fully insured • Issue an Industry Standard Certificate of Chimney Sweeping for every Chimney cleaned • Follow the Industry Standard Code of Practice • Able to inspect and survey Chimneys using CCTV equipment

NACS Members are dedicated to Protecting the Consumer For more consumer information and guidance on Chimneys and Stoves, please visit www.nacs.org.uk where you can also download a free Heat Your Home Safely Guide.

Fireside Factory Are you looking for an amazing deal on your next fireplace and are you looking for that wow factor? Buy direct from one of our retail outlets… We are able to offer you some amazing deals by buying direct from the factory, so no middle man adding to your costs. Marble fireplaces available from just £399 or as a package with a 3.9KW gas fire just £549. Most of these fireplaces are in stock should you require a quick delivery or are available on our next available fitting date should you require installation by our experienced Gas Safe team. We also offer a bespoke “MADE TO MEASURE” selection of marble or wooden fireplaces. Tell us what you would like, choose your style, choose your material and tell us your required measurements. Looking for something special?? We have a selection of inglenooks, grand fireplaces or super contemporary hole in the wall fires if you are looking for that wow factor.

Are you keeping your carpet?? We also offer a made to measure hearth service, tell us your existing hearth measurements and we will make your new hearth to the sizes you require. Solid fuel displays are now available to view at our Norton Canes branch, with a selection of mix and match packages from £2499 fitted* subject to survey If you do not know where to start, pop in and have a chat with our experienced team who are always happy to offer advice. Full delivery and installation service available. NORTON CANES BRANCH Over 100 displays of fireplaces, gas fires, electric fires and log burners. We are open to the public: Monday - Friday - 9am - 5pm, Saturday - 10am - 4pm Visit us online at www.firesidefactory-nortoncanes.webs.com 1st Floor, Units 6-7 Norton Canes Business Park, Norton Green Lane, Norton Canes, Staffordshire, WS11 9SS. Tel: 01543 277366 NEW WALSALL BRANCH Large showroom with displays of fireplaces, gas fires and electric fires Opening hours: Monday - Friday - 10am - 4.30pm, Saturday - 10am - 4pm 80 Ablewell St, Walsall, West Midlands, WS1 2EU. Tel: 01922 644407

CANNOCK’S LARGEST DISPLAY OF FIRES, FIREPLACES & STOVES FIREPLACES MADE TO MEASURE

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

MON-FRI 9am - 5pm SAT 10am - 4pm

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01543 277366

www.fIresIdefactory-nortoncanes.webs.com

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ffordshire’s ta S f o rs a e y 0 1 g n ti Celebra ering th a g ic m o n ro st a g st e bigg Stone Food & Drink Festival Fri 3, Sat 4 & Sun 5 October 2014 2014 sees Staffordshire’s original food festival celebrate its 10th year of bringing together the very best in local produce and cooking talent to delight visitors from far and wide. Now a real red letter day in the ‘foodie’ calendar, the Taste of Staffordshire supported event attracts in excess of 20,000 visitors to the charming North Staffordshire market town with a packed week-long schedule of food and drink events hosted by local pubs and businesses in addition to the ‘main event’ on the town’s Westbridge Park on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Even arriving at the festival can be an event in itself – from the Park & Ride at Aston Marina a water taxi service operates alongside traditional buses; allowing visitors to arrive at Westbridge Park in style while taking in some of Stone’s historic canal network.

Shop, Eat, Learn, Drink – and more! Festival Friday and Saturday see the town centre bustle with crowds visiting the High Street Farmers’ Market - where you’ll find the very best local goodies from fresh fruit and veg to meat, poultry, game, preserves - and much more. At noon on Friday the main festival at Westbridge Park opens its gates; offering visitors the chance to

first time in 2014 in Westbridge Park’s new Cookery Classroom – more details will be available soon on this exciting new addition, but booking will be essential to avoid disappointment!

discover Staffordshire’s very own food heroes in the Taste of Staffordshire area, browse stalls from some of the UK’s finest artisan producers in the Gourmet Food Marquee, enjoy informative presentations in the Talks and Tastings Tent and watch top local chefs in action in the Demonstration Kitchen. Little ones, meanwhile, will be kept entertained with a funfair, face painting and free kids’ cookery classes.

A whole week of foodie fun

If all this activity whets your appetite, there’s ready to eat food on offer to suit every taste – from filled Staffordshire Oatcakes and locally made pies through to hog roasts, gourmet burgers, exotic street food, traditional afternoon teas and even fine dining in the festival’s very own pop-up restaurant. For beer lovers, Staffordshire brewers are out in force and the Beer Tent has a true party atmosphere with great live music whilst, for those in search of a more sophisticated atmosphere, elegant bars serve wine and champagne by the glass or bottle; alongside a delectable selection of cocktails.

The Festival’s legendary Minibus Real Ale Trails embark on Wednesday and Thursday evenings; taking revellers on a tour of no less than eight great real ale pubs in Stone’s surrounding villages. In town, meanwhile, the Musical Meander ‘Manger a Trois’ roving meal sees diners enjoy a three course meal with a twist – each course is served in a different town centre restaurant, with live music in each.

For those looking to expand their culinary knowledge, live interactive cookery classes will be on offer for the

Stone is a hive of activity throughout Festival week. Local pubs, restaurants and businesses all get involved; running special offers and foodie events from themed meals to pub quizzes and cook-offs.

With such a diverse range of events on offer throughout Festival week, the Stone Food & Drink Festival retains its crown as Staffordshire’s biggest gastronomic gathering!

This month we have teamed up with Stone Food and Drink festival one lucky reader to win a pair of weekend tickets – allowing fast-track entry to the main festival on Westbridge Park over all three days (Fri, Sat & Sun). For your chance to win please answer the following question:

Stone Food & Drink festival attracts how many visitors? Email your answer to info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk or on a postcard to 30 Swinburne Close, Sutton Heights, Telford. TF7 4PZ with your name, address and telephone number, Entries to be received by arrive by Monday 15th September 2014 Competition Terms and conditions: Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries and notified by telephone. Prize is a pair of weekend tickets. No cash or alternative prize available.

Entry to the Stone Food & Drink Festival at Westbridge Park costs £6pp/day (accompanied under-16s free), with weekend tickets available in advance for £15pp. The 2014 festival will take place on Friday 3rd, Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th October – for more information, full programme of events and to buy tickets visit www.stonefooddrink.org.uk

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

th Anniversary! 30 r ei Th s te ra eb el C and glazier; we quickly progressed into a leading supplier and installer. We owe much of our 30 years of success to the quality of the products we use, and the personal service and aftercare we offer. We sell a large range of products including Windows, Conservatories, Patio Doors, Bi-folding doors, Composite Doors and Fascia’s /Sofits. All of our products are A rated and energy efficient. We also offer a glazing service, including mirrors, glass shelves, processed work, any size and style and replacement sealed units. Our customer portfolio includes local councils, hospitals, schools and letting agents. All work is carried out by our own team of professional fitters.

Here at Winterwarmth we are celebrating our 30th anniversary this year on the 19th September! This makes us the longest established window company in Stafford. We are so grateful to the many customers that we have supplied to over the last 30 years, and here’s to another 30! Winterwarmth was established on the 19th Septembe 1984 as a sealed unit manufacturer

With our wealth of experience you can be assured that our aim is to deliver a first class product, at a competitive price. Improve your home today with high quality windows, doors and conservatories from Winterwarmth. Winterwarmth is based on the Astonfields Road Business Park in Stafford. Visit our showroom or call for a free no obligation quotation on 01785 256085, alternatively you can visit our website: www.winterwarmth.co.uk Whatever your requirements our friendly staff are available to offer help and advice.

Specialist Installers of Windows, Doors and Conservatories

Composite doors • Windows • Patio Doors • Conservatories • Bi-Folding doors • Fascias Sofits Tel: 01785 256085 Unit 8, Astonfields Road Business Park, Stafford, ST16 3UF

www.winterwarmth.co.uk

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

l people to ca lo r fo g n li ea p p a is Stafford BHF Store e fight against heart disease volunteer and join th The Stafford British Heart Foundation (BHF) Furniture and Electrical Store is looking for Heart Heroes to spare their free time to volunteer for the nation’s heart charity. Giving your time doesn’t just benefit the Stafford BHF Furniture and Electrical Store either; it can also be a great way to meet new people, use your existing skills, boost your CV and help in the hunt for a new job. BHF Stores give volunteers the opportunity to learn new skills and

get on the career ladder. Almost 20% of BHF Retail’s paid staff joined as volunteers and work in a range of positions from Retail Assistants right up to Area Managers.

be able to continue our life-saving work without them. We appreciate every minute people can spare and to show how grateful we are, we also hope to give something back.”

In the last academic year BHF Shops and Furniture & Electrical Stores awarded 800 NVQs in England and Wales and have even more staff and volunteer’s working towards the qualification this year. The BHF can also help you to improve the skills you already have by finding a role to suit you, whether you’re looking for a career change, retired or simply just have some spare time to give.

Stafford BHF Furniture and Electrical Store offers a wide variety of roles including warehouse assistants, sales, customer service, window dressing and office administration such as arranging house collections and are keen to hear anyone who has a few hours to spare.

Julie Currie BHF Area Manager said: “Our volunteers are at the heart of the charity and we simply wouldn’t

The Store also offers a free collection service for any unwanted furniture & electrical items which can be booked by calling them on 01785 223 463 or going online at bhf.org.uk/free

For more information on volunteering opportunities visit bhf.org.uk/volunteer or pop into the Store located at 12 Princes Street, Stafford ST16 2BN. 28

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

DONATE YOUR FURNITURE AND ELECTRICALS and we’ll pick up your items for FREE Your unwanted furniture and electricals can help us fight back against heart disease. We collect all sorts of items: • • • • •

Sofas, beds, tables, chairs TVs, Hi-Fi’s Washing machines, fridges Small electrical items Games consoles, docking stations

Call 01785 891 491 or book online at bhf.org.uk/collection Please don’t be disappointed if we are unable to accept items for reasons of safety or quality

©British Heart Foundation 2013, registered charity in England and Wales (225971) and in Scotland (SC039426). 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

The Rooz Local rock n roll band enjoy more success, this time on a national level. The Rooz, made up of Louis Coupe (17), Ralph Porrett (14), Tom Russell (16) and Peter Davis (18) made their way to renowned music venue The Bedford in London on Tuesday 27th May to compete in the under 19 category for the UK Rock the House competition, having been shortlisted in the Top 12. The band came away with 3rd place on the night, after performing 2 original songs; ‘Kings and Queens’ and ‘Monkey Socks’, which both wowed and impressed the judges and audience. “It was a shock to have even been shortlisted in the first place. Hundreds of bands applied and to be put forward to compete in such a prestigious final is a real honour” says frontman and songwriter Louis. The Rooz have quickly established themselves as one of Shropshire’s hottest entertaining bands after winning the Live Band of The Year competition at the Robin 2 late last year. “We’ve been very busy recently in the studio and with gigs and releases left right and centre” says Louis. The band have also recently been selected to take part in the Music For Youth National Festival and will take to the main stage at the Town Hall in Birmingham on Friday 11th July. “We’ve got lots of things happening for us at the moment” says Louis “we love playing our music

and entertaining audiences and its a real thrill when we see other people singing my lyrics.” The band’s debut EP is available to download, and you can find out more about gig dates on their website www.therooz.co.uk or give them a ‘like’ on Facebook. www.facebook.com/theroozofficial www.twitter.com/theroozband www.therooz.co.uk www.facebook.com/louiscoupe

annock & C l a n o ti a rn te In t is m Soropti

District

Cannock Soroptimists heard about Black Country Murders from speaker Ian Bott at their last meeting. Ian used pictures of places and people to illustrate his talk of murders taking place between 1902 and 1954 in Tipton, Lye, Bilston and Walsall. The murders were all domestic incidents and he didn’t spare any of the gory details! Throat cutting was often the mode of killing; the victims were women and children. In all cases the murderer was caught, tried and sentenced within twelve months of the crime, sentence ranging from 12 years imprisonment to hanging at Winson Green Prison. President Janis Lomas thanked Ian for his talk - being an historian herself she had a particular interest. The Club’s next speaker meeting is on August 19th when the speaker will be Margaret Smallman whose topic will be “Memories of a Corner Shop”. SI Cannock meet at The Barns, Huntington and enjoy talks about a wide variety of subjects as well as working to enable, empower and educate women and girls locally and globally. Their focus for this, their Diamond Anniversary year, is the project Violence Against Women - Stop it Now and some fund-raising events will support 30

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

Janis Lomas, President, SI Cannock & District; Ian Bott, author of Black Country Murders, Soroptimist Lakhwinder Thompson

Pathway and Staffordshire Women’s Aid. Further information is available on the website www.sigbi.org More information about all of SI Cannock’s events is available on their website www.sigbi.org/cannock-and-district, bookings for events can be made via si.cannock@outlook.com or by phoning 07971 494510

ocial Club S d n a s rt o p S s n o is rr Ha one! – Something for every You cannot beat watching a live band, to see and hear a 5/6 piece band playing really is something special, and you can see live bands every Thursday for just £3 at Harrisons Sports & Social Club. Country and Dixieland Jazz bands perform every week starting at 8.45pm till about 11.15pm. JAZZ is on the 1st and 3rd Thursday and COUNTRY MUSIC the 2nd and 4th. When we get a 5th Thursday in the month we still have a band so it’s worth checking out our facebook page to see who is performing. You will find us on facebook, Harrisons Sports and Social Club. All our functions, tribute nights and news are put on the facebook page, so have a look. This includes our Saturday night entertainment which can range from a vocalist to a full band. It starts at 9pm and

is £2.50, but you will soon recover that back with our competitive bar prices. Wednesday night is Bingo night with prize and money games, you need to be a member to play the money bingo but membership application forms are always behind the bar, just fill one in. We boast Crown Green Bowling sections which play on our excellently maintained green situated at the club. Also there are Football, Crib, Pool, Snooker, Darts teams/facilities plus we also have a Fishing Section with our own section of canal. Another popular night is our 60s/70s/80s/90s DECADES DISCO NIGHT .This has a great friendly atmosphere and is a good place to dance the night away and meet and make new friends. It starts at 8.45pm till 11.45pm is just £2 entrance and is hosted by our regular DJs Ron Dixon or James Weatherall, come along you will enjoy yourself.

Harrisons

Sports & Social Club Wharwell Lane, Great Wyrley, WS6 6EU Tel: 01922 412138 or 07801 236481 Open from: 4pm Mon - Thurs, All day Fri, Sat & Sun.

Happy hour 5pm to 6pm. August

Thursday 7th Thursday 14th Thursday 21st Thursday 28th

Chris Carmell's Vintage Jazz Band Ted and the Country Rebs New Washboard Syncopators Jazz Band Knoxville Highway Country Band

September Thursday 4th Thursday 11th Thursday 18th Thursday 25th

October

Thursday 2nd Thursday 9th

Millennium Eagle Jazz Band Peter Boddis Country Band Chase Jazzmen Knoxville Highway Country Band Bank Street Syncopators Jazz Band John Wildwood and Country Friends

There is an excellent section of beers and ciders to choose from including Cask Ales. Wine by the glass or the bottle and coffee and brandy for just £3. A sun trap beer garden and children’s play area plus a nice quiet lounge. There really is something for everyone, come and visit us, you are always welcome! BREAKING NEWS - Harrisons will shortly be starting a regular ROCK and ROLL NIGHT. Check the facebook page for more information

TRIBUTE NIGHTS See facebook page for details

Friday 8th August

OOmpaH NIGHT with BIER KELLERS CHUNKLERS tickets available

Dixieland jazz or country music band on every Thursday night. Only £3. 60s/70s/80s Disco Night every Tuesday 8.45pm to 11.45pm £2 at door Live entertainment Saturdays Bingo on Wednesday nights.

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

INGREDIENTS • 2 kilo leg of lamb • 2 bulbs of garlic peeled • 150ml Rapeseed oil • 6 tbsp of Ras el Hanout • 2 kilo new potatoes • 2 small heads of broccoli • 4 red chillies • fresh rosemary • sea salt • cracked black pepper • 500g natural yoghurt • 2 tbsp of mint sauce • half a cucumber • mint sauce • watercress, spinach and rocket • Flat breads or tortillas • 400g of hummus

Recipe Of The Month Barbecue Lamb with Ras el Hanout Preparation time: 1 hour plus marinating 2 days

Cooking time: 45 minutes if cooked together

METHOD FIRST JOB: Place the potatoes on a tray and bake in the oven for around 30 - 40 minutes ready to add to the salad a bit later on.

By Michael Peter Whitehurst Email: mike@takefood.co.uk www.takefood.co.uk

Serves 8 Resting time: 20 - 30 minutes

heat for about 12 minutes until soft but not too coloured. Once the broccoli is charred place into a bowl and pour over the garlic and chilli oil. Cut the potatoes in half and mix through the broccoli then season with sea salt and black pepper.

MEAT: Ask your butcher for a boned, well-trimmed of fat and sinew and butterflied leg of lamb. Once you get it home get a small sharp knife and start making small cuts in the flesh all over the leg. Peel the garlic bulbs and set one bulb of cloves aside for later. Thinly slice the cloves of garlic and insert them into the slits you have cut into the meat. Now rub the spice mix well into the meat and drizzle with oil rubbing all over the meat. Place into a plastic tray and wrap tightly with cling film. Put into fridge for up to 2 days. This needs to be at room temperature before you cook it so if its for lunch take it out the fridge in the morning(8am).

DIP: Empty the yoghurt into a bowl, pour in 2 tbsp of mint sauce and grated cucumber, season with salt and pepper to serve.

Once on the BBQ allow to cook for about 17 minutes each side, take off the grill and leave to rest for about 20 minutes, allowing you to finish preparing the rest of the food.

www.facebook.com/takefood www.instagram.com/mikewhitehurst_takefood www.twitter.com/takefood mike@takefood.co.uk www.takefood.co.uk

SALAD: Trim the broccoli and blanch for 2 minutes. Grill the broccoli before you cook the meat on the bbq. Pour 100ml of oil into a frying pan and add thinly sliced garlic and chillies then fry on a low 32

EQUIPMENT • Equipment • Baking tray • Mixing bowls • Plastic or glass tray • Tablespoon • Large pot • BBQ • Sharp knife • Strong kitchen foil • Peeler • Bbq tongs • Kitchen roll • Oven gloves • Gas or coals

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

SERVING SUGGESTION: Once your meat has rested fully, carve it and present on a platter in front of your guests with the broccoli salad, watercress salad, hummus and tzatziki dip in bowls. Now grill the flat breads for 30 seconds and serve. To eat spread the hummus over the bread, add a little watercress salad then the meat and now a little tzatziki on the top and fold the flat breads and serve with the broccoli salad on the side.

email: mike@takefood.co.uk for his recipe for roasted red pepper hummus or Ras el Hanout spice mix recipe.

Would you like to reach over 40,000* readers in Cannock, Stafford and surrounding areas?

Now is the ideal time to promote your seasonal menus, special offers or forthcoming events in

* over a 2 month period

For further details on promoting your venue Call Sharon Caldwell on: 01952 321334

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The King’s Repose Situated in the countryside in a beautiful barn conversion in Featherstone near Wolverhampton, The King’s Repose is a high quality and highly recommended Indian restaurant. With hosts Lee, Misbah and Monseur who have ran the successful restaurant since 1996, it is no wonder that they have many returning customers and new customers week in week out. They were awarded again in 2014 a five star rating from ‘ Rate My Place’ which is a prestigious award, awarded by the local council for the outstanding achievement and contribution to the pursuit of excellent food and service which monitors food hygiene and general standards. Using only the best ingredients with a wonderful combination of subtle flavours and tastes, blending fragrant and exotic spices from the Indian continent. Each dish at The King’s Repose has its own individual flavour and aroma from the herbs and spices specially prepared by the Master Chef Misbah. This evening my partner and I were delighted to be returning to the award winning, King’s Repose in Featherstone. After parking on the free secure car park to the front of the restaurant we stepped out of the car and could immediately smell the beautiful aromas. We were greeted at the entrance by Monsieur who remembered us from our previous visit and were taken through to the bar area where we both ordered a Cobra beer each and began to peruse the menu. With so many tempting dishes to choose from we didn’t know where to begin. For our starters we decided on samosa and vegetable Bengali 34

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

Our main courses were presented shortly after and looked delicious. We shared each of the dishes and both were beautifully cooked and generous in proportion. The chicken was cooked precisely so that it remained succulent. Again these dishes were polished off in no time.

stuffed rolls along with poppadums and dips. For our mains we opted for a chicken jalfraize (£7.95) with fresh spices, tomatoes, green pepper and green chillies (fairly hot) and also a chicken tikka massala (£8.95) with cream and coconut (mild), to accompany our mains we also ordered pilau rice and a peshwari naan to share.

We finished our evening with coffees and my partner and I both said how The King’s Repose fully deserves to be awarded the 5 star rating hygiene award by Rate My Place.

Once our order was completed we were taken upstairs in the restaurant to a lovely table in front of the huge arched window overlooking the grounds.

This was another great evening with fantastic food and we will be returning as soon as possible.

We went on a Monday evening and the restaurant was bustling with diners.

The King’s Repose, New Road, Featherstone, Nr. Wolverhampton WV10 7NW

The service from our waiter was good, lots of attention but not intrusive.

01902 307846 / 01902 738299

Once we were settled our starters arrived and we were both very pleased. Both dishes had great flavours and fresh ingredients and were finished rather quickly!

Open from 5.30pm - Midnight (7days a week) also on public Holiday also special Christmas Day Lunch party

Open from 5.30pm - Midnight (7days a week)

Indian Cuisine The Kings Repose have been awarded a 5 star award from rate my place for Kitchen Hygiene. Misbah the master chef can cook anything to suit customers requirements. All of the superb mouthwatering dishes being freshly prepared at the time of ordering, using only the finest produce.

Described by many customers as a culinary experience of a lifetime.

New Road Featherstone Nr. Wolverhampton WV10 7NW

01902 307846 01902 738299

Eat in or take away

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

onths in m 6 s te ra b le ce n ia d In iCook fford base ta S w e n to ve o m h it w business Stafford-based Indian cookery school iCookIndian, which launched at the Stone Food & Drink Festival last October, is celebrating a successful first six months in business with a move to a new base at Stafford Sports College. The family business, which originally ran classes from Rodbaston College near Penkridge, has made the move following high demand and a need to cater for more students per session. Courses aim to educate foodies in authentic Indian cuisine, as business founder and course leader, Amarpal Harrar, explains: “Establishing an authentic Indian cookery school has been a longheld dream of mine – our family is passionate about Indian food and we aim to show people that Indian cuisine is not only diverse but can be very healthy when cooked from scratch. When we launched the school last October we had no idea that things would take off so quickly and we’ve been amazed by the response. We’ve had brilliant feedback on the courses and people are not only recommending us to friends but are returning for the second – and sometimes third and fourth – times.”

learn about the heritage of the dishes they are cooking and about the spices and other ingredients they use. As an added bonus, they also get to take home the food they’ve cooked to share with friends and family. With the move to the new, larger kitchens at Stafford Sports College the iCookIndian team is busy working on new course formats. Amarpal says: “We’re delighted with the new facilities at Stafford Sports College as it gives us chance to expand – not only

the number of students we can take in each class, but also in terms of class format. We’re now planning to run full day courses as well as afternoon classes, and may be looking at evening classes in the future. New course themes are also in development, with the whole family getting involved in researching and testing recipes. We also recently launched gift vouchers as a lot of people who attended courses said that they thought the experience would make a great gift.”

For more information on iCookIndian - including course dates and prices – and to book places on courses or purchase gift vouchers visit http://icookindian.co.uk/ or call 01785 336166.

When attending an iCookIndian course, students not only cook a delicious Indian meal for two from scratch with Amarpal’s guidance, but About iCookIndian: iCookIndian was founded in 2013 by Amarpal Harrar with the aim of giving people the confidence and skills to cook ‘home-style’ Indian food from scratch. A true family business, classes are led by Amarpal with assistance from his

sons, while recipes are researched and trialled thoroughly at home. An experienced and inspirational chef, Amarpal’s passion for Indian food began during his childhood in India, recalling the smells and tastes of authentic food cooked from scratch using a heady mix of spices. He has

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

travelled extensively in India since, researching the diversity of regional Indian cuisine; something he is keen to share with iCookIdian students. iCookIndian classes are run regularly at Stafford Sports College, but can also be held in other venues across Staffordshire.

Ginger, Cannock e lu B r fo y m m a h W Double The Blue Ginger, Cannock has been awarded for the second year a five star award by Ratemyplace.

rating scheme, which is calculated by taking into account how hygienic the premises are, whether they take into account of recognised food hygiene practices and how much confidence the inspector has in the management to keep their premises up to standard.

Ratemyplace is a partnership between the majority of Staffordshire local authorities to publish details of food safety inspections reports and hygiene rating scores across the county. Ratemyplace has aligned itself with the national food hygiene

As well as celebrating the above, Blue Ginger has also been awarded a 2014 Certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor. This prestigious award is based on the quality of reviews and opinions they have earned on TripAdvisor over the past year.

Abdul Karim the owner of Blue Ginger who explained that he and his staff have been running the restaurant for 3 years, and they have new and returning customers every week. Abdul said “Our aim is, and has always been, to provide the finest in both food and service and to our gratification Blue Ginger has been granted a five star rating and the Certificate of Excellence. We are all so happy and at Blue Ginger, have a look at all of our great reviews on trip advisor and make sure you pay us a visit soon”.

Blue Ginger has been awarded for the 2nd year, a Five Star Food Hygiene Rating. OPENING HOURS Sunday:1pm-10pm Mon-Thurs: 5.30pm-11.30pm Fri-Sat: 5.30pm-Midnight

SUNDAY BUFFET Dine in only. Eat as much as you like from a wide range of our exquisite dishes. 1pm-10.00pm

Adults £7.95/Child £4.95 2 FOR 1 MEAL

20% DISCOUNT FREE HOME DELIVERY FREE BOTTLE OF WINE

On all dishes including specials Monday to Thursday - Dine in only

on all food orders collected

Stafford Road, Huntington, Cannock, Staffordshire WS12 4NU

Within 5 mile radius and on orders over £10.00

with every takeaway order above £25.00

01543 500 300 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

rn in Burton o B n io st a B sh ti ri B a Branston: rt van der Does By Robe

of Branston to Premier Foods in 2004, the recipe and traditional methods used to create it remain the same. That recipe involves the pickling of diced vegetables, including carrots, turnips, onions, cauliflower and gherkins, in a heady sauce made of vinegar, tomato, apple and dates with spices such as coriander, garlic, mustard, cinnamon, pepper, cloves, nutmeg and cayenne pepper. That melting pot results in a sweet and spicy, sticky sauce containing small chunks of vegetable. Branston Pickle is perhaps most voraciously consumed in combination with cheese in the ever-popular “cheese and pickle sandwich”. When you consider that the famous Branston Pickle still sells over 17 million jars per year in the UK alone, it’s not surprising that it cost Japanese food manufacturer Mizkan £92.5 million to buy the company from Premier Foods in 2013. The success of Branston Pickle has led over the years to the emergence of a number of imitations, most notably from supermarkets. Their varieties have been sold with such product titles as “Ploughmans’ Pickle” and “Sweet Pickle” to prevent problems arising over use of the trade name Branston Pickle.

Branston has become a much-loved British food brand since its introduction to our lives in 1922. While since 2004 productions have operated from Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk, the name Branston is inextricably linked with the pickled chutney product it made its name with, simply title Branston Pickle, which was created in the Branston suburb of Staffordshire town Burton upon Trent. The company Crosse and Blackwell originated everyone’s favourite sandwich-filling pickle 92 years ago at Branston Lodge on Burton Road and employed a staff of around 600, two thirds of which were female. Even today, a decade after their sale 38

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

Branston have themselves branched out from simple pickle manufacture. The brand also now produce a varied quantity of table sauces and relishes. In 2005 Branston even launched a new product with the intention of challenging the Heinz dominance of the baked bean market in the UK. Branston Baked Beans proved successful to the extent that their popularity forced Heinz to re-evaluate its promotional strategies.

Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi fine dining experience in the longest established Indian restaurant in Cannock since 1971.

Fully licensed and recently refurbished to a very high standard. Sun-Thu 5.30pm till 11.30pm Fri-Sat 5.30pm till 1.00am

The team at Padma Restaurant are deeply committed to selling standard in excellence and quality. At Padma we are offering our customers a wonderful dining experience with a taste of warm Indian hospitality.

New exciting dishes added to our fantastic menu! Padma Lounge Bar & Restaurant 8 High Green Court Newhall Street Tel: 01543 502 101 / 01543 Cannock Email: info@padmalounge.co.uk Staffordshire www.padmalounge.co.uk WS11 1GR

572 040

Call ICare Community Meals on

community meals

www.icarecuisine.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ www.icaregroup.co.uk

01543 275015

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

arathon Events M n to p m a h er lv o W er Carv September 2014 Sunday 7th

In this, the 17th year of the running of the Marathon events, the organisers are busy working behind the scenes putting in place the plans to ensure that on Sunday 7th September in West Park all the hard work will come together to make the events match their success in previous years. The Marathon events attract many competitors and supporters who all help with the fundraising cause. Many people choose to help their own good causes which of course the organisers welcome. This year the event organisers decided to form a charity partnership and it is fitting that this charity is COMPTON HOSPICE, close to so many people’s hearts. In order to carry out the good work that the Hospice does they need to generate a substantial income each year. The other charities set to benefit this year are WEST PARK STROKE CYCLING GROUP. Based at West Park

Hospital this group was formed to encourage exercise opportunities for people who have had strokes. Cycling is such a suitable form of exercise that they meet each week to cycle in West Park. Some of them even take part in the cycle event. Also set to share the proceeds raised are BROADMEADOW SPECIAL SCHOOL. Based close to West Park in Wolverhampton they help to support and develop 3 to 7 year olds with severe physical and learning disabilities. The success of the events is made possible by the dedicated team who meet throughout the months leading up to 7th September to ensure that they provide a safe and well managed event for everyone to enjoy. This, together with the generosity of the sponsors, enables people of all ages and abilities to take part and help the fundraising cause. Major sponsor Carvers Building Supplies, continue to support with their generous financial help and the input from their dedicated and loyal staff. Last year Chair Mary Harding announced that Marston’s Brewery had increased their sponsorship and

the “Banks’s 10K” was introduced into the event schedule. This year further sponsorship has been offered from Cousins Furniture who are taking the Cousins 20K Cycle event under their name. Angel Springs have also renewed their generous sponsorship this year and they will again provide all the bottled water for the runners. Further sponsors are, Greggs, Signal 107, Express & Star, Wolverhampton West Magazine, NJB Sports & Physio, Places for People Leisure, Fred Williams Cycles, Ron Flowers Sports, Veloxserv, (who sponsor the marathon website). Another new Sponsor is Charles Clark Toyota who will be supplying the lead car and back up vehicles. Each year as the event grows more companies are getting involved, both financially and offering their services. This demonstrates the popularity of the marathon events in the City of Wolverhampton. All these Companies play an important part in making the event successful. It is a pleasure working with them.

Anyone wishing to take part in any of the events can enter via Runners World or by downloading an entry form from our website

www.carverwolverhamptonmarathonevents.co.uk

West Park Stroke Cycling Group with Hugh Porter (front right)

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

ry Risk! ju In r u o Y e c u d e R … rs Runne Running is one of the most accessible forms of fitness training to ensure you attain an adequate amount of exercise each week. In fact if you run regularly then your relative risk of death can decrease by up to 63%. Exercise is medicine! However there is also a risk of injury from running and each year between 30-80% of runners suffer injury from running (Van Gent et al 2007). This statistic hasn’t significantly reduced in over 30 years! The biggest risk factor for recurrent injury is previous injury (Saragiotto et al 2014). The 5 most frequently reported injuries in runners are Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (aka shin splints), Achilles & Patella Tendonopathy, Plantar Heel Pain (aka Plantar Faciitis), Ankle Sprain and ITB Syndrome (Lopes et al 2012). Most of these issues are cumulative onset

injuries caused by training errors and can be avoided with the correct advice. If we progressively adapt our tissues to the loads encountered when running then we get stronger and faster rather than becoming injured. It’s a question of balancing appropriate training load with adequate recovery! We can optimise this response to training through being aware of some important information

4. Train often – Running 4-5 times per week for shorter distances achieves better adaptation especially for the beginner. Progress training volume by approximately 10% per week. 5. Recover - Sleep, Diet, Hydration are all important aspects of recovery which optimise adaptation to training.

1. Warm up – Progressively prepare your body for running with dynamic movement such as light jog, walking lunges, hopping, knee lifts

Consider following the basic advice outlined above and you will already be well on your way to better running with a reduced injury risk.

2 DON’T statically stretch before running– research suggests you will impair performance and increased your injury risk (Shrier et al 2004).

My next article will focus on SHOE SELECTION and will dispel some common misconceptions about selecting your shoes for running!

3. Take shorter, lighter, quicker steps – Most runners run with reduced cadence (typically around 160 foot strikes per minute). Try aiming for 3 foot strikes per second (Schubert et al 2014)

Active Therapy is a specialist running clinic and provides treatment, rehabilitation, gait analysis and shoe selection advice for runners of all standards.

Please contact us on 07970 110526 or admin@active-therapy.com Andrew Caldwell BSc (Hons) MSc MCSP – Clinical Director & Consultant Physiotherapist Active Therapy

£10

� PHYSIOTHERAPY � SPORTS INJURIES � SPORT SPECIFIC REHABILITATION

OFF INITIAL ASSESSMENT WITH THIS ADVERT

� PRE AND POST SURGICAL REHAB � SPECIALISED RUNNING CLINIC � GOLF PERFORMANCE CLINIC � ACUPUNCTURE � KINESIOLOGY TAPING Active Therapy are recognised providers for all major healthcare schemes such as Bupa, AXA-PPP, Aviva and many others.

Call: 07970 110 526 www.active-therapy.com The Chase Golf Health Club & Spa Penkridge, Stafford, ST19 5RN

RECOVER Targeted, evidence based treatment aimed at achieving great outcomes.

PREVENT Specific advice and exercise programming to reduce the risk of recurrence

PERFORM Restoration to full function and sports participation using the latest screening and rehabilitation techniques

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

ing Lunch

Ticket Includ ily m Fa A in W ld or Waterw Plunge into our plunge pools or just relax in our Jacuzzis with more than 30 different rides and experiences. WaterWorld really does have something for everyone; there is plenty to do for all ages, weak and strong swimmers.

This month we have teamed up with WaterWorld for one lucky reader to win a family ticket for 2 adults and 3 children including lunch in the Water’s Edge café. WaterWorld attracts over 400,000 visitors a year making it a leading visitor attraction in North Staffordshire & the UK’s No.1 indoor tropical aqua park! Prepare yourself for our breath taking White Knuckle rides, including the Nucleus and the Python or challenge your family and friends on the racing slides!

We have a tropical environment with an exotic temperature of 30 degrees+. Open all year round whatever the weather. Relax and take a break in the tropical poolside Waters Edge cafe. Situated right next to the pool, so no need to get dressed or leave the pool area. You can choose from a quick bite, sharing platter or specialties of the day. Free Onsite Parking, a Licensed Cafe Bar, Water’s Edge Cafe, Swim Shop and Communal Family Changing/Shower Facilities. Stoke on Trent Staffordshire ST1 5PU Tel: 01782 205747 Fax: 01782 201815 See opening times at: www.waterworld.co.uk

For your chance to win a family ticket including lunch in the Water’s Edge Café, please answer the following question:

What is the name of one of the white knuckle rides at WaterWorld? A: The Cobra B: The Python C:The Adder Email your answer to info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk or on a postcard to 30 Swinburne Close, Sutton Heights, Telford. TF7 4PZ with your name, address and telephone number. Entries to be received by arrive by Monday 1st September 2014 Competition Terms and conditions Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries and notified by telephone. Prize is a family ticket for 2 adults and 3 children. Lunch is a meal band and excludes platters and daily specials. Prize must be redeemed by the 30th September 2014. No cash or alternative prize available. All entry details will be forwarded to Waterworld.

Tour de Stafford On 18th June Blessed William Howard Catholic High School, along with the five other secondary schools in the Stafford Collegiate group, joined forces for the first ever Tour of Stafford.

This was a 15 mile circular route around Stafford linking all participating schools. In total 90 pupils took part, 15 from each school, to raise the profile of the cycle routes within Stafford that are suitable for travelling to secondary school and to encourage this age group to continue cycling. The event was organised by Staffordshire County Council, through the INTO Team (Inspiring New Travel Options). “Cycling is a great form of independent travel and is good for your health. There are also a range of training opportunities available for bike and road safety for this age group.

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

This is the first time such an event has been held but fingers crossed for The Tour of Stafford 2015.” commented Catherine Jenkinson, Connectivity Officer (Cycling) at Staffordshire County Council. The total mileage that the riders completed on the day was 2,041, that includes all the school pupils, teachers, instructors, police and other support riders.

Quite an achievement on such a warm day.

is Summer th D E S S U S n re d il h C Get your cil’s Leisure Centres ire with South Staffordsh

Get your Children SUSSED this Summer with South Staffordshire Council’s Leisure Centres This Summer South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres are offering 6 weeks of action packed and fun filled sessions to entertain children aged 5-12 years throughout the Summer school holiday. A huge range of activities are on offer every weekday and cost from as little as £3.80 for 2 hours of activities. Some of the activities available this Summer are: • Trampolining • Go-karting • Fizz Pop Science • The Animal Man • Diddi Cars • Supreme Science • Gymnastics • Little Boxers

The great thing about SUSSED is that no block booking is required! Children can come as little or as often as they like and parents can either stay and watch or drop the children off and leave them in the leisure centres hands.

For more information about what’s on offer visit www.sstaffs. gov.uk/sussed. Alternatively you can collect the programmes direct from one of the leisure centres, or call them on: Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre Codsall Leisure Centre Penkridge Leisure Centre Wombourne Leisure Centre

01922 417790 01902 844032 01785 714152 01902 898202

Cut out the voucher below and hand in at one of South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centre:

FREE SUMMER SUSSED SESSION PASS Voucher valid 21st July – 29th August 2014 Voucher can be redeemed for use on any Summer SUSSED session up to the value of £3.80. Visit www.sstaffs.gov.uk/sussed to view sessions. Bookings cannot be taken over the phone with this voucher; Bookings must be made in person at your chosen leisure centre. 1 voucher per person, per offer. Booking is advisable and places are booked on a first come, first served basis. Child’s Name ……………………......................................................... Leisure Centre …………………..…………………………....................



Each of South Staffordshire’s leisure centres which include Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne also offer a great pool programme of activities from crash course swimming lessons and parent & toddler’s to fun time with floats and inflatable sessions.

Coun

Name of session ………………………………………………………… Date of session …………………………… Time of session ………… Staffordshire Outlook Magazine August/September edition 2014

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

All the treatments and

advice you need

r You”

me for a “Top to Toe Sum

Summer is on the horizon and we all feel the relief as the sun tentatively peeps its head from behind the clouds and the prospect of lazy days on the beach or in the garden gets ever nearer. However, with the casting aside of jumpers, tights and winter boots there is a little preparation needed before we can confidently disrobe. Here at La Minky we have a full range of treatments you need for a “Top to Toe Summer You”.

Let’s take it from the top The sun has got his hat on and so should you. Protecting your head and hair from the sun with some form of head covering is the easiest way to protect your hair and scalp from harmful rays. It helps prevent fading colours and reduces drying or frizzy split ends. It’s also a good idea to use a hair treatment mask if you are going to spend a lot of time with your hair exposed to the sun. At our sister salon “Salon La Mink” we offer a range of hydrating hair treatments that can be used to keep your hair healthy, soft and glossy this summer. We can also advise which shampoo and conditioner would be best for your hair type.

Fresh Faced Massage your way to a healthier glow this summer. Try and take time to include massage in your facial skin care routine. A little massage will help stimulate circulation, remove toxins and deliver the oxygen and nutrients to your skin to give it a healthy glow. Make sure movements are always upwards and be especially gentle around the eye area. If you feel like treating yourself why not try one our relaxing facials and we will do all the hard work for you. Here are the details of our signature facial:

Body Confident Exfoliate! We offer a full body exfoliation service that really revives the skin and prepares it for the summer months. A body brush, then an exfoliant is used from feet upwards (avoiding sensitive areas and the face) which helps improve skin tone, sloth dead skin cells and improve your general health, The treatment is finished with a velvety moisturiser to soften and sooth the skin. 44

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

A healthy glow There’s nothing quite like a healthy, glowing, naturallooking tan to make you look and feel fantastic. If you want the confidence to show off your pins but don’t want the possible damaging effects from sun bathing why not try our St Tropez manual tan (patch test required 48 hrs prior to treatment). We start the treatment with a gentle body polish which we massage in circular motions, concentrating on elbows, knees and feet. The polish gently removes tired skin cells, making the skin ready for great tanning. Then a moisturiser is applied to help keep your skin looking sleek, supple and hydrated. This is essential for softening dry areas before self tan application to prevent any unsightly patchiness. Then the tan itself.... now all you have to do is look fabulous.

Hair today gone tomorrow Before you know it’ll be time to pack your case and fly off for sunnier climes. You may have all the bestsellers, sun protection and beach towels you need but will you be ready to disrobe? Here at La Minky we can have you bikini ready with our range of waxing treatments from under arms, legs, toes to intimate. We are experts in regular and intimate waxing for both males and females. The wax we use is especially designed for intimate areas, is very supple and makes for a comfortable application and removal.

Summer at your finger tips and toes If you feel your feet need pampering why not try one of our sandal ready treatments. We have a 3 step Callous Peel that removes that unwanted hard skin in just 15 minutes and leaves your skin feeling soft and rejuvenated. Whichever treatments you choose why not finish off with nail paint for either hands or toes. You can choose from out wide range of OPI polishes or upgrade with a long wearing CND Shellac that lasts or CND Vinylux weekly polish that has a week- long wear. We look forward to seeing you over the summer months and hope our “Top to Toe Summer You” treatments will help you feel ready to step out with confidence this summer. Here’s to going out and enjoying the summer while it lasts!

Be beach beautiful this summer with our 'Sandal Ready' and 'Bikini Confident' offers:

Get your feet 'Sandal Ready' with a Callous Peel for hard skin for

£15

Upgrade the treatment to include cut, file, cuticle work & nail paint for only £10

LaMinky

extra.

'Bikini Confident' for just

£10

Hair is removed from the top of the pubic triangle, very high at the sides (almost Brazilian) and narrowed inside the panty line. All offers must be redeemed by the 31st August 2014

All offers subject to availability.

Telephone 01543 500 340 www.salonlamink.co.uk

Please mention this advert at time of booking. Dawtry Stables, Dawtry Farm, Watling Street Hatherton, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 1SD | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 01952 321334

Proud to Boast! The Cottage Surgery is proud to announce that they have created a special partnership with one of the UK’s true ’cutting edge providers’ of Injectable Medical Aesthetic Treatments. Surgeon Ash Labib is the UK Ambassador for Allergan, the originator and exclusive supplier of the genuine ‘Botox’ product. Used for medical treatments such as Hyperhidrosis, (excessive sweating), Migraine control, and the reduction of spasms in children Botox is now widely known as a way to reduce the signs of ageing. It is Ash Labib’s day job as the E.N.T. Surgeon at two of the Midlands premier NHS Hospitals, Russell’s Hall and New Cross, that inspired him to develop the use of Dermal Fillers, (another essential tool in the battle against the signs of ageing), for a very different treatment. Along with a very select few, Ash has developed the use of Dermal Fillers to provide Rhinoplasty (Nose jobs to you and me) and nasal Reconstruction. This pioneering new treatment can amazingly be completed in your Lunch Hour! Ash Labib does of course, utilise dermal fillers in the more traditional sense, i.e. filling those lines that occur through the natural ageing process or, to reduce scars left by acne, accidents or childhood diseases such as Chicken Pox. It is experience gained as a surgeon in the E.N.T. field that has lead him

to develop nasal reconstruction without the need of a scalpel. Many people are unhappy with their nose shape, either being ‘born with it’ or, because of an accident, or illness. In any event, how we look, can have an effect on how others perceive us. The usual remedy was to ‘go under the knife’ and undertake invasive surgery. Not only does this traditional surgical intervention require the essential use of a general anaesthetic with the usual risks this entails, but also several weeks away from work or from social commitment’s. It also results in very obvious and substantial bruising with the possibility of scarring, temporary or otherwise, post treatment aftercare, and sometimes the need for additional corrective surgery. All invasive surgery carries with it the risk of infection as we all now know with the rise of super bugs such as Clostridium Difficile, (known as C-Diff in the press/media) however good the surgical resources are. Ash’s skills in utilising dermal fillers in place of the scalpel usually remove ALL of the above downsides. Very often Ash can provide the desired aesthetic results in under half an hour, & virtually always within the time we take for our lunch break. Genuinely, a good percentage of his patient’s leave his treatment room and go straight back to work. Some patients choose to use Ash’s filler based expertise to avoid the above issues. Other patients choose Ash because they feel embarrassed by their desire

Before and after pictures of one of Ash's patients - without the use of a scalpel!

to remodel this important facial feature, and know the associated bruising will be evidence of surgery, to friends, family and work colleagues, and even strangers in the street. Because there are very rarely any tell tail signs and no need to take time away from work, some patients really value this ultimately discreet way of achieving their goal. The Cottage Surgery offers Ash’s services because they are aware that his skills in the use of both wrinkle relaxing injections and Dermal Fillers are second to none in the UK. Ash’s skill was initially brought to the attention of the Surgery through his international training and teaching business, where he is able to spread the word on his development of filler based Rhinoplasty. The surgery is confident that you can benefit from his 21 years of E.N.T. experience, years of Medical Aesthetic injectable treatment development, and innate understanding of his patients requirements. Amazingly, like all their other treatments, the Surgery offers free in depth consultations and have agreed for a limited time, that Ash’s Consultations will also be free! To book a free confidential and no obligation Consultation with Ash Labib, call us on 01384 940498 or visit our website www.cottage-surgery.co.uk

“Ash, I came to see you after I had Rhinoplasty 10 years ago, abroad. I was very unhappy with the results. But when you performed the nonsurgical Rhinoplasty on my nose, it was an amazing result which has changed my nose on the outside to my desired shape, and gave me all the confidence and reassurance from the inside as well! I thank you so much for the revolutionary treatment.” Chris

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

The West Midlands’ Leading Cosmetic & Beauty Clinic Botox Treatment

Treatments Include… 15% OFF ALL TREATMENTS*

Before

After

Typical Before & After images (which have not been altered or changed) following combined BOTOX, Dermal Filler & MNT treatments which were photographed approximately two thirds of the way through a treatment process. The Cottage Surgery not only utilise the skills of the West Midlands’ most respected & ground breaking injectable specialist surgeon, but also Laser technologies, MNT treatments, skin resurfacing methods & leading Cosmeceutical Skin Care regimes. This is to ensure the best effects and outcomes for our patients.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Acne & acne scarring Anti-ageing Birth marks Botox Chloasma Dermal fillers Electrolysis Laser hair removal Hyperhidrosis Tattoo removal Medical peels Melasma Microdermabrasion Non-surgical face lifts Pain relief Photo-rejuvenation Pigmentation Pigmented lesions/Liver spots /Sun spots/Age spots Port wine stains Rosacea Scarring Skin rejuvenation Skin tags Smoking cessation Sports injury Stretch marks Sun damage Telangiectasia Thread vein removal Verruca removal Wart removal Wrinkle reduction injections

“An honest detailed consultation was followed by effective caring treatments. Thank you for your understanding and improving my self confidence. I really wish I’d found your clinic sooner!” – H. Patel, Halesowen

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* Towho gain 15% Telephone: 01384 940498 • Trained, certified staff use off any treatment, please book your treatment on or before 30th September 2014 and state of the art technology Email: enquiries@cottage-surgery.co.uk mention this advert. Offer cannot be claimed alongside any other offer. Website: www.cottage-surgery.co.uk 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

UltraSlim Clinics UltraSlim LipoFreeze™ Cryolipolysis is the newest body contouring procedure to be offered by UltraSlim Clinics in Wolverhampton to assist clients in achieving a slimmer physique and a smaller waistline. The clinic has seen bookings increase double fold since recent media reviews from celebrities such as Luisa Zissman, Kristina Rihanoff and Casey Bathcelor who admit to having had the new Fat Freezing treatment with amazing results. The Non-Invasive UltraSlim LipoFreeze™ procedure eliminates fat without surgery in areas around the hips, thighs, arms, and love handles by freezing stubborn fat cells that live beneath the dermal layer of the skin. Developed in 2005 and backed by strong clinical research and trials, LipoFreeze (Fat Freezing) is based on Cryolipolysis - the use of precisely controlled cooling to remove fat. It is an FDA-approved non-invasive body contouring procedure available to patients with no scarring, no pain and no downtime. It provides permanent results and promises a reduction of the treated area by up to 40% in a single session. A patient will be able to see changes in about three weeks’ time, but dramatic improvement can be appreciated after two to three months. Hanna McCormac at UltraSlim Clinics in Wolverhampton encourages her clients to maintain a healthy lifestyle for optimum results. Hanna says, “I often tell my clients I can remove ‘love handles’, but it’s entirely up to you to maintain this through diet and lifestyle. I find the majority of my clients follow the good aftercare advice given as the results achieved often provide clients with the motivation needed to change their lifestyle in order to maintain these.” With their exclusive UltraSlim LipoFreeze™ device, UltraSlim 48

Clinics now provide the same quality treatments as London’s Harley Street Clinics only at a fraction of the cost. Hanna explains how. “Our exclusive UltraSlim LipoFreeze™ device uses 4 hand pieces, unlike most other clinics including the top clinics in London which only use 1 hand piece, therefore we are able to treat larger or 4 different areas simultaneously which means you receive more value for money in addition to reducing the need to return for more treatments. It’s because of this technology and capability that we can offer the most cost effective Cryolipolysis treatments in the Midlands. In addition, our clients can also benefit from having our UltraSlim Lipo™ Cavitation & Radio Frequency treatments at the very same time, which provides instant results to target other areas of unwanted excess fat.” Aside from Fat Freezing Treatments, the clinic in Berry Street, Wolverhampton also offers other anti-aging solutions through their wide range of non-invasive and skin care services including Ultrasound Cavitation and Radio Frequency (RF) treatments to target excess fat, cellulite, Stretch Marks and Tighten Loose Skin on body or face. The

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

demand for these types of treatments have soared in recent years because you don’t have the risks associated with traditional tummy tucks or facelifts as there is no surgery, no needles, no pain and no downtime. Clients can resume normal activities directly after treatments and the procedures have become known in the industry as ‘Lunchtime Lipo’. About UltraSlim Clinics: The Wolverhampton-based Aesthetics and Beauty Clinic is a specialist Non-Surgical Lipo and skin care services provider dedicated to helping women and men achieve their personal weight loss and aesthetic goals. The clinic is under the ownership of Hanna McCormac, who has earned extensive training and experience in the Non-Invasive Aesthetics industry. She is accredited by WhatClinic.com with a 5 STAR TREATMENT AWARD and prides herself on having some of the highest standards and reviews in the industry which can be found on the WhatClinic.com website or with simple Google search for ‘UltraSlim Clinics Reviews’ For more information, please visit www.ultraslimclinics.com or you can email info@ultraslimclinics.com Tel: 0844 288 7297

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From ISA to NISA Virtually all the headlines surrounding George Osborne’s recent Budget were about the changes to the pensions rules. Rightly described as the biggest changes to pensions legislation for a hundred years, they will have far-reaching implications for the financial planning of many. We will take a detailed look at these pension changes in a future article. With all the attention devoted to pensions, though, it was easy to overlook a radical overhaul of the rules governing Individual Savings Accounts – ISAs as they were formerly known and NISAs (New Individual Savings Accounts) as they’ll now be called. The changes came into effect on the 1st July. Here’s a concise summary of the new rules the Chancellor introduced: •

The current annual limit on ISAs was increased from £11,880 (the figure the Chancellor announced in his last Autumn Statement) to £15,000

•

If you already have invested £11,880 in an ISA for the 2014/2015 tax year you will be able to add an additional £3,120 from 1st July.

•

The division between stocks and shares ISAs and cash ISAs will disappear. Previously you could only hold 50% of the annual ISA allowance in cash: from 1st July all the £15,000 can be held as cash if you so choose

•

too little” and these changes are an attempt to address that. They’re also a way of rewarding those savers in cash ISAs who have put up with very low interest rates for some time now. So all in all, they’re far reaching changes and we very much welcome them.

•

But what are the practical implications for you?

Lord Lee, hailed as Britain’s first ISA millionaire, tells a compelling tale about how a sensible approach to investment, which includes the prevalent use of the tax free accounts, can pay huge dividends.

•

For the first time ever savers will be able to transfer previous years’ funds from stocks and shares ISAs into cash ISAs. This had previously not been allowed Limits on Junior ISAs and Child Trust Funds are also being increased and will rise to £4,000 from 1st July

George Osborne famously said that he wanted to deliver a Budget for “the makers, the do-ers and the savers” and he’s certainly delivered on the savings part of that statement. He was concerned that people in Britain “borrow too much and save

•

First of all you can now save almost three times the previous limit in a cash ISA – up from £5,940 to £15,000. For savers whose first concern is security, ISAs now present a very attractive option with a husband and wife being able to save £30,000 a year in a tax-free cash investment For us, flexibility is the key. ISAs will now play a much greater part in our clients’ financial planning, but it will be more important than ever to make sure that your ISAs are performing well – if you’re invested in a stocks and shares ISA – and that you’re always receiving a competitive rate of interest on savings held in a cash ISA. We would expect the increased demand for cash ISAs from July 1st to trigger a wave of competition from the product providers so we will hopefully see some attractive savings rates.

Similarly, there will be pressure on the investment companies to make sure they are producing good returns, given that investors can now move all their stocks and shares ISAs into cash holdings.

Both of those factors can only be good news for savers and investors.

Writing in The Telegraph, recently, Lord Lee describes how, after 16 years of investing a total of £126,000 into ISAs, his pot had grown to a hugely impressive £1 million. Of course, not everyone who invests in ISAs will reach the level of return achieved by Lord Lee, but his examples proves a potent reminder of just how valuable ISAs can be to your investment portfolio. We emphatically welcome the changes that the Chancellor has introduced. The limits have been increased, ISAs have been greatly simplified and they will undoubtedly play a greater role in savings, investments and overall financial planning from now on. If you have any questions on the proposed changes; if you would like to discuss the ISAs you currently hold – or how NISAs can play a part in your future financial planning – then don’t hesitate to contact us.

Paul Gorman, Chartered Financial Planner, Principal Partner Tel: 01902 863494 Email: pgorman@beaufortplanning.co.uk Web: www.beaufortplanning-westmidlands.co.uk Sources: www.hmrc.gov.uk/isa/new-isa-faq.pdf 50

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

• Portfolio Management • Retirement Planning • Inheritance Tax & Estate Planning • Later Life Advice • Financial Plans & Lifetime Cashflow Paul Gorman APFS Chartered Financial Planner & Prinicipal Partner Beaufort Planning Suite 46 Hilton Hall, Hilton Lane, Essington, Staffs, WV11 2BQ "Planning for Your Life, Your Future, Security & Independence"

www.beaufortplanning-westmidlands.co.uk

Tel: 01902 863494 Email: pgorman@beaufortplanning.co.uk

Beaufort Planning is a trading name of Beaufort Financial Planning (West Midlands) Ltd. Beaufort Financial Planning (West Midlands) Ltd is an appointed representative of Beaufort Financial Planning Ltd, Beaufort House, 85-87 Basingstoke Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG2 0HA, which authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

tes 2014/15 Income Tax ra It’s said there’s nothing as certain as death and taxes. Yet while there’s no doubt we’ll all be taxed, the rates can change rapidly. Will you pay 20% or will you end up in the 40% tax bracket? This is an updated guide for the tax year starting 6 April 2014 Income tax rates

Note

2014/15

2013/14

£31,865

£32,010

Starting rate for savings

*10%

Basic rate

20%

Dividend ordinary rate

10%

£31,865

£32,010

Basic rate band - income up to

Higher rate - income over Higher rate Dividend upper rate Additional rate - income over Additional rate

40%

32.5%

£150,000

45%

37.5%

Trusts

For interest in possession trusts on all income, and other trusts on the first £1,000 of income (“standard rate band”):

Dividend additional rate * Starting rate is for savings income up to the starting rate limit of £2,880 (£2,790) within the basic rate band. The rate applies to any balance of the limit remaining after allocating taxable non-savings income.

dividend ordinary rate

10%

savings income

20%

other income

20%

Income of other trusts above £1,000 is taxed at the special trust rates: rate applicable to trusts dividend trust rate

45%

37.5%

Personal allowance (PA)

£10,000

£9,440

Born after 5 April 1938 and before 6 April 1948

1,3

£10,500

Born before 6 April 1938

1,3

£10,660

Blind person’s allowance

£2,230

£2,160

Born after 5 April 1948

Married couple’s allowance (MCA) Either partner born before 6 April 1935 (relief restricted to 10%)

2,3

Tax Shelters

£8,165

£7,915

£200,000

Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) up to

£1,000,000

Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme up to

£100,000

Golden Handshake max.

£30,000

Rent a Room - exempt on gross annual rent up to

£4,250

Venture Capital Trust (VCT) up to

Construction Industry Scheme deduction rate:

Standard (registered)

20%

Higher (not registered)

30%

Notes 1. The higher rates of personal allowances are reduced by £1 for each £2 of excess income over £27,000 (£26,100) until the basic allowance is reached. 2. Similar limits apply to the married couple’s allowance. The reduction in allowance is subject to a minimum level of £3,040. (For couples married before 5 December 2005, only the husband’s income is taken into account. For those

married on or after 5 December 2005 or in a civil partnership, only the higher earner’s income is taken into account). 3. The personal allowance, including the minimum age-related allowance, is reduced by £1 for every £2 that adjusted net income exceeds £100,000 regardless of the individual’s date of birth. 4. Where there are several trusts created by the same settlor, the “standard rate band” is divided equally between them, subject to a minimum band of £200 for each trust.

If you would like more information regarding any of the changes to the tax rates for 2014/15 or any general help and advice please contact DSN Accountants Ltd and we are always happy to advise free of charge. 52

| AUGUST/SEPTEMBER STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK 2014 You can email us on: Info@dsna.co.uk or by telephone on 01785 413148.

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Walk for Dreams

Promise Dreams are delighted to launch their biggest single fundraising event Walk for Dreams 2014. Sunday 21st September will see walkers; family and friends descend upon the grounds of Himley Hall in Dudley in their thousands to set off on a 10 mile walk to Wolverhampton racecourse. The walkers will be given a warm up to ensure they’re ready for the off and a full-on party atmosphere awaits them at the Racecourse with music,

Dickie Dodd, Freya Felton, Steve Bull, Suresh Bawa

refreshments and, most importantly, somewhere to rest their weary feet. Entry to Walk for Dreams is totally free but walkers are encouraged

to get sponsored or fundraise in whatever way they can as this will enable Promise Dreams to raise even more special smiles.

Please register at www.walkfordreams.co.uk

in the Lesser in a P t in o J ll a B t: is tr Ask The Podia drome? n y S / a m ro u e N ’s n o rt toes - Mo

Nerves that transmit messages to the brain from the toes pass between the metatarsal bones (long ones behind the toes).

The pinched nerve causes pain or numbness on the sides of the toes nearest to the nerve.

Excessive pronation (rolling in of the foot) or if the arch in your foot is weak, will cause the metatarsal bones to move closer together, and to pinch the nerve causing it to become inflamed. This is most likely to happen between the 3rd and 4th bones causing a pain or numb sensation on the inside of the two toes that the nerve comes from. Often a shooting sharp pain can also be experienced.

• Pain on one side of a toe and the adjacent side of the next toe.

Sometimes it is caused by a neuroma or benign tumour on the plantar digital nerves (situated in the web between the toes). It may develop due to ill fitting shoes which press against the nerve. The condition is made worse by athletes who spin on the ball of their foot such as golfers and tennis players.

Rest. Wear a metatarsal raise or dome which will raise and spread the bones of the forefoot taking the pressure off the nerve. See a chiropodist/podiatrist or sports injury professional who can form a diagnosis and provide treatment and rehabilitation. Wear appropriate shoes with wide deep toeboxes.

What are the symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma?

• Pain when you squeeze the foot. • Pain if you press between the bones. A Mulder’s click may be heard/felt. • Corns & Calluses

What can a person do to prevent/treat a Morton’s Neuroma?

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

What can a Chiropodist/ Podiatrist do for a Morton’s Neuroma? • Fit orthotics as mentioned above • Tape the foot to relieve pain and pressure on the nerve • Prescribe anti-inflammatory edication (such as ibuprofen) • Give exercises to strengthen the arch of the foot • Operate

Thomas Casey Chiropodist/Podiatrist

HPC registered See a Podiatrist/chiropodist for an assessment & treatment if you’re desperate, or call Tom Casey on 07828 613615

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Would you like to reach over 40,000* readers in Cannock, Stafford and surrounding areas? Now is the ideal time to promote your motoring special offers or events in The Staffordshire Outlook Magazine. For further details on promoting your motoring call Sharon Caldwell

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Taylor Monkey Business by Rob

I’ve just seen the new Planet of the Apes film and it’s got me thinking. Not about a dystopian future and all attendant unease to apes riding horses, but in a way no filmmaker could ever have imagined. It’s got me thinking about the Toyota GT86 and the delicate concept of anthropomorphising cars. Ascribing human attributes to distinctly inhuman things is not unfamiliar to us. In pets, it’s common. But can it be possible with cars? Or - more specially - can a new car be your new best friend? KITT in Knight Rider was vaguely human. So too Bumblebee in Transformers. And some cars today are even so clever that they drive you to work. I know people who name their car. There’s certainly enough love out there for cars and, it seems, there’s nothing but love for this sexy 2+2 tearaway. The GT86 is a affordable, back-to-basics old school adrenaline shot which breaks up the monotonous motoring malaise of 2014. And happily it does it all without any lip-service to the Jeremy Clarkson endorsed maxim of “just add more power.” Instead the Toyota adheres more closely to Colin Chapman’s ethos of weight-saving, tipping the scales at just over 1200 kg. Thusly the 197 bhp and 151 lb ft developed from its 2 litre Boxer engine is more than adequate to propel the GT86 from 0-62 mph in 7.6 seconds and on to a 140 mph top speed. Now I’ve dispensed with the quantifiable, I must endeavour to articulate just what it is exactly about this car that has my mind wandering into transcendental realms. In short, what it is that causes me to liken it to a person. Or rather - in the case of the GT86 - a dog. 56

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

Firstly, it can be optioned with a proper manual gearbox; in itself always cause for gushing eulogy. Secondly, it’s rear-wheel drive. Thirdly, it has skinny tyres from a Prius. That’s right, it’s a car that likes to wag its tail a little. And when it does, it’s a hoot, but it’s not as if you are going to drive back and forth from work in such a manner and thus, when you want it to, the GT86 is easy to keep in line with its wheels in-line, handling as well as anything else out there at this price-point; never needing a stern ticking off from its master. Also, as its maximum torque and power arrives high up in the rev band, it pulls hard at its leash, like Lassie when there’s danger afoot. It likes a run too: I took it out earlier this morning and it returned 34.1 mpg, so you won’t need to buy too much Pedigree Chum if you decide to adopt one from your friendly neighbourhood dealer for around £25,000. You may now be thinking that it’s not so cheap after all, but remember, because all the fun and frolics come courtesy of a well-honed chassis, low-centre of gravity, rear-drive, skinny tyres and a modest power-plant which doesn’t require ridiculously complex stability-control systems, there’s no expensive veterinary bills to consider. That’s not to say that the GT86 can’t be driven sedately and without provocation; it can, and it rides very well, never feeling uncomfortably wearing. Equally, it’s important not to confuse lightness with sparseness of creature comforts: the interior even boasts cruise control and Bluetooth connectivity as standard. Not to mention that it comes with a 5-year warranty. So then: animals as people? Definitely. Cars as animals? Maybe. The GT86? I call him Max.

r Big and Scary by Rob Taylo

In space no one can hear you scream. So ran the tagline for the 1979 Alien film, but in 2014, the phrase brings new meaning to classic horror; I’ll explain. The void in which I currently find myself is not the final frontier of some distant galaxy, nor is it the yawning great chasm forged through Arizona by the Colorado River; no, I’m in the new Honda Civic Tourer: a cavernous space so commodious it could well prove the ruination of my day, because today I’ve lost my girlfriend Nicola’s Pomeranian puppy. And I’m screaming. Confident that the screams will be muffled by the Civic’s sound-proofing and not give me away and hopeful that the witless pup, dear lil’ Pom-Pom, will register my anguished calls and begin yelping, I begin the search. He is definitely in here, that much I know - but where exactly? The Civic Tourer has the biggest boot in its class at 624 litres, although I can’t vouch for this, since every previous attempt to measure space with bottled Evian has resulted in a damp squib. And now is not the best time to re-try, since drowning a dumb animal in the pursuit of road testing is a step too far. First place to check: the under-floor storage compartment in the boot, roughly where the spare tyre used to live. No luck there. Moving on and it’s time to lift the rear seats, cinema-style, to reveal a storage space which is ideal for standing short people or very tall dogs. Since I am looking for neither, I’ll continue. Just to be on the safe side I drop the rear seats completely to show off the Civic’s maximum load capacity of 1668 litres. Wow, now the calls of “Here lil’ Pommy-wommy snuggley-booboo” are really beginning to echo. How embarrassing. After this, a trip to outer space may be the only option left for me. Time to make a quick getaway: to the driver’s seat. It may not be in the animal’s best interest, but ’er indoors is advancing swiftly towards the car and

I’m hopelessly short on excuses. The dog and I are playing hide and seek just won’t cut it. At least the smooth and refined 1.8 litre i-VTEC petrol engine offers some hope of me discerning any muffled distress calls while on the move, as I begin the road test proper. No noisy diesel chuntering here, just a delightful free-revving power plant which can charm the birds from the trees. If only it worked on dogs. Nevertheless it works very well, produces a reasonable 138 bhp and 174 Nm of torque and actually proves to be quite involving since it needs to be revved to get close to the performance it proffers on paper; namely, 0-62 mph in 9.1 seconds. A statistic more comfortably attainable is the official fuel economy figure of 44.1 mpg. The ride is good (despite the 17” alloys and mostly thanks to the adaptive damping system on this SR model), the steering is light and at its best in low-speed tight spots and the visibility is more than adequate. Inside it feels bigger than it looks outside and the interior spec seems more expensive than it is. In this SR specification it has leather seats (heated in front), Sat-Nav, and a DVD player for just £25,350. But now’s not the time for soaking up creature comforts: I’m a man on a mission in search of a creature and with the glovebox already checked, things aren’t looking good for the pup. Next up, the deep, central armrest repository. Damn it, I exclaim. Crestfallen, with all hope extinguished, I glance into the door-bins to find the cuddlesome renegade snuggled up in a ball, quietly snoring. With a face so adorable its capable of launching a 1000 Facebook ‘Likes’, I leave the little critter to his slumber, drop the rear seats once more, stretch-out and close my eyes. 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

Million Times! A r ve O – ld ou M ks a re Vauxhall’s Adam B Using premium materials and design cues often found in the luxury sector, ADAM is a threedoor, four-seater. Designed by Brit, Mark Adams’ team in Europe, ADAM incorporates a ‘floating’ roof which is visually disconnected from the body, making the use of two-tone colour schemes more impactful than ever before. Classy, sophisticated and glamorous, ADAM retains design signatures from other Vauxhalls: the crisp line around the door handle (GTC), the wing-shaped chrome grille bar (new Astra) and the blade shape in the lower doors. It will also be the first car in its class to have the option of LED daytime running lights. But unlike other rivals in the segment, ADAM bucks the trend for retro-based design with a fresh and bold look that will appeal to open-minded individuals who want to defy convention with a car that’s distinctive and striking. And it’s those very customers that Vauxhall is targeting with ADAM’s high degree of personalisation options. Available in three trims from launch – JAM (fashionable/colourful), GLAM (elegant/sophisticated) and SLAM (racy/sporty) – ADAM customers can effectively ‘build’ their own car. There are almost unlimited visual combinations, with a wide variety of exterior colours – including two different roof colours - interior colours, equipment and materials. Customers can even choose their headlining, including an LED-lit starlight roof trim. Mark Adams, Vauxhall/Opel’s Vice President of Design, summed up what makes ADAM unique: “No other car in this segment can be individualised as much as ADAM because we are offering virtually unlimited exterior/ interior colour, fabric and kit combination choices. It’s very unlikely that you’ll find two identical ADAMs out there.” Powertrains Vauxhall’s ADAM will be offered with a choice of three efficient ecoFLEX four-cylinder petrol engines from launch: a 1.2-litre 70PS, plus two 1.4-litre engines with either 87PS or 100PS. All will be available with optional Start/Stop technology and will be mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

Later on, ADAM will be the first car in Vauxhall’s range to adopt the new-generation small petrol engine, featuring direct injection and forced induction, and an all-new six-speed gearbox. Upscale equipment & smartphone connectivity Unique in its class is ADAM’s new top-of-the-range infotainment system designed to support new media sources, including Bluetooth, as well as connectivity for smartphones with Android or Apple iOS software. This enables access to internet-based applications, including GPS navigation. The system uses a state-of-the-art seven-inch, full-colour touch screen display allowing quick access to a variety of on-board controls. Round, mechanical clock-style instruments with chrome bezels mark a departure from those seen in other Vauxhalls, while ADAM customers can also opt for a heated steering wheel – another first in the class. Advanced technology enhances safety and comfort ADAM will break new ground in the A-segment, by offering technology normally only found in higher-end cars. A prime example is the Advanced Park Assist II system, which will be an ADAM option never seen before in a Vauxhall production car. Drivers engage the system with a button on the dashboard and it tells them when they reach a parking space large enough to accommodate the car. The system then automatically steers them into the parking space, with the driver only needing to control the brake, clutch and gears. APA II uses ultrasonic sensors to work its magic, and always comes in combination with Side Blind Spot Alert (SBSA). As with all Vauxhall’s, ADAM uses the very latest safety technology. High-strength steel is used to make an ultra-rigid passenger cell. This is complemented by front, side and head curtain airbags, as well as dual seat belt pre-tensioners for front occupants which offer additional knee and leg protection. Other safety features include two sets of ISOFIX points to easily and safely attach child seats on the 50:50 split foldable rear bench. Crisp ride and handling; ESP standard across range Despite its compact dimensions of nearly 3.7 metres in length and 1.72 metres in width, ADAM’s footprint is relatively broad, with front and rear tracks of 1485 and 1478mm respectively, and a wheelbase of 2311mm. Front suspension is by MacPherson strut, with a compound crank system at the rear. Wheel sizes range from 16- to 18-inch, and cars that are specified with 17- or 18-inch rims come as standard with the lowered sports chassis. The latest generation ESP system is standard on all ADAMs, including a Hill Start Assist function.

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

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CORSA EXCITE £189 customer deposit* £189 per month, over 35 months.

Official Government Test Environmental Data. Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km). Vauxhall Corsa Excite and Corsa Limited Edition: Urban: 39.2 (7.2) – 64.2 (4.4), Extra-urban: 62.8 (4.5) – 83.1 (3.4), Combined: 51.4 (5.5) – 74.3 (3.8). CO2 emissions: 129 – 100g/km#. *Offer subject to availability at participating Retailers only. Finance subject to status, Terms and

Conditions apply. Applicants must be 18 years or over. Finance by Vauxhall Finance, PO Box 6666, Cardiff, CF15 7YT. Offer includes Vauxhall Contribution. Customer deposit shown after deduction of Vauxhall Contribution. At the end of the Personal Contract Purchase agreement there are three options: i) Retain the vehicle: Pay the optional final payment to own the vehicle, Corsa Excite £3,638, Corsa Limited Edition £5,035, ii) Return the vehicle, or iii) Replace: Part Exchange the vehicle, where equity is available. Offer applies to private individuals, Vauxhall Partners and small businesses 1-24 (purchase only excluding B2B supported units). All other customers are excluded. ‡First year insurance offer available on Corsa Excite and Limited Edition models only. All drivers must have held a valid full UK licence for a minimum of 1 year. All policies are underwritten by Ageas Insurance Ltd. Other insurance specific Terms and Conditions apply. **The offer will cover the full premium for drivers aged between 21-75 (motor policy only). Only available through Vauxhall Insurance. ^Drivers aged 18-20 will make a contribution of £99 to their premium and must agree to the fitting of a telematics box to the car: every 3 months, your policy will be reviewed and if you drive well, we will return part of this to you. The policy may be cancelled for consistently poor driving. Only available through ingenie. Vauxhall Lifetime Warranty covers lifetime ownership of first registered keeper, 100,000 mile limit. Terms and Conditions apply. Offer available on orders or registrations between 2 July and 1 October 2014. We can introduce you to a limited number of finance providers, commission may be received. #Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors.

BRINDLEY VAUXHALL CANNOCK Main A5, Cannock WS11 1SH

01543 406749

www.brindleyvauxhall.co.uk

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

ent. Again.

g the B-segm n ti n ve n ei R : ke Ju n New Nissa Thanks to its dramatic design and advanced technology, the Juke has become the runaway leader of the B-segment crossover sector. The Juke’s combination of highly individual styling, strong driving dynamics and sophisticated interior equipment has allowed it to storm from zero to 500,000 sales since its launch, easily eclipsing its rivals. In the UK alone, there have been more than 100,000 Nissan Juke’s sold since sales began in 2010. Now, following Nissan’s established practice of constant development, comes the next chapter in the Juke story. Establishing itself as the original stand-out model in the growing B-segment crossover market with its unique combination of sport and SUV design, the new Juke is ready to once again stamp its authority on the segment it created. Already recognised as the design trend-setter, the new Juke benefits from a series of design enhancements, new engines and technologies and a wide-ranging personalisation programme. The changes are extensive including; a new design at the front and rear with greater emphasis on both premium refinement and sporty design cues, a new downsized DIG-T 115 turbocharged engine offering greater performance, economy and lower emissions, a revised DIG-T 190 engine, a personalisation programme, advanced equipment including a new audio system, the latest generation NissanConnect driver-vehicle interface, Nissan Safety Shield, Nissan’s Dynamic Control system, plus a new open-air panoramic glass roof. While revisions in the luggage area have increased space by 40 per cent (up to 354 litres) in two-wheel drive versions, there is now even greater

opportunity for owners to really stamp their own personality on their Juke, with a new personalisation programme called ‘Nissan Design Studio’, offering a range of new colours and interior and exterior themes. The changes and range of additions to the new Juke will accelerate the growth of Nissan’s second most popular model in Europe, helping it to emulate the remarkable achievements of its big brother Qashqai. The Juke is the best seller in the premium B-segment, outperforming all direct competitors, including those from the top German brands. Well on its way to over 500,000 sales, the Juke achieved 135,000 sales in 2013 with its popularity set to increase with the introduction of the new version. All Juke models sold in Europe are built in Europe, at Nissan’s hugely productive plant in Sunderland. Significantly for Nissan, the Juke has attracted a huge number of buyers who are new to the brand. As much as 82 per cent of sales have been to first-time Nissan owners, not only making it the highest conquest model in the Nissan range but a model that comfortably outperforms the B-segment average with many of those new buyers downsizing from larger cars Bold design has always set the Juke apart from any rival, offering a mixture of crossover toughness with sporting appeal that has seen it become a design icon. Although radically altering the proportions would undermine the Juke’s unmistakable presence,

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

Nissan’s design team managed to make significant changes and enhancements to the car’s styling while retaining and enhancing the brand’s acclaimed crossover DNA. At the front, the upper lamps have been redesigned to adopt the Nissan’s signature ‘boomerang’ shape - as seen on 370Z, new Qashqai and new Murano - and now too incorporate bi-intensity LED daytime running lamps. The headlights are now available with Xenon bulbs for better visibility and new lens covers. The nose incorporates a new, more powerful V-shaped grille, while the lower elements have been toughened with new trim beneath the bumper. Door mirrors have been revised to include LED side turn strip repeaters and, where fitted, cameras for the Around View Monitor. At the rear, the bumper has a more aggressive shape to match new revised boomerang tail lamps with LED light guide technology, giving the new Juke a more distinctive appearance at night. The new colour palette now extends to ten colours and includes three new shades: Sunlight Yellow metallic, Ink Blue metallic and solid Red. A wide range of alloy wheels completes the exterior revisions, with 16-inch steels available on entry-level Visia models and different styles of 17 or 18inch alloys on Acenta, Acenta Premium and Tekna variants. A new 18-inch alloy wheel with coloured inserts will also be available, allowing drivers to add their personal touch.

New Nissan Juke With Added PersonAlity

ALL NEW NISSAN X -TRAI

ADVENTURE CALLING AT BRINDLEY NIS

Sportier, smarter: re-discover urban performance with the New Nissan JUKE

Prices starting from

ÂŁ13,420

Start your adventure today by calling 01543 506216

BRINDLEY NISSAN Delta Way, Cannock WS11 0BE 01543 406728 506216 | brindley-nissan.co.uk Opening hours 9.00-18.30 Monday to Friday, 9.00-17.30 Saturday and 10.30-16.30 Sunday

X-TRAIL Fuel RANGE:consumption URBAN 45.6-50.4MPG (6.2-5.6L/100KM), EXTRA URBAN 60.1-62.8MPG (4.7-4.5L/100KM), COMBINED 53.3-57.6MPG (5.3-4.9L/100KM) CO2 EM figures for Juke range are: URBAN 28.8-48.7mpg (9.8-5.8L/100km), EXTRA Model shown is an X-Trail Tekna. Terms and Conditions apply. Nissan Motor GB (Ltd), The Rivers Office Park, Denham Way, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 9YS.

URBAN 47.1-67.3mpg (6.0-4.2L/ 100km), COMBINED 38.2-58.9mpg (7.4-4.8L/100km), CO2 emissions 169-124g/km. 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

nder is a car a tl u O i h is b su it M e h T edigree with an impeccable p For longer journeys at higher speeds it will achieve less than 148mpg. Smooth, quiet and refined, PHEV is powerful from the offset (200bhp) and feels safely planted on the road, with its low centre of gravity and Super-All Wheel Control system providing pleasing and reassuring driving dynamics.

The Mitsubishi Outlander is a car with an impeccable pedigree – and now there’s a new and exciting addition to the range. The new vehicle is the acclaimed Outlander Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) – and it is, quite simply, the best 4x4 SUV PHEV on the market. Of course, as part of the Mitsubishi Outlander family, quality and refinement come as standard, along with the pricing and impressive technology for which the Japanese manufacturer is so well known in the UK. But the Outlander PHEV takes things to a whole new level. Crucially, it’ incredibly cost-effective and it qualifies for the Government’s £5,000 Plug-in Car Grant. The entry-level Outlander PHEV - GX3h - is available for the same price as the diesel-powered GX3 at just £28,249 after the Government Plug-in Car Grant. The diesel-powered GX4 is £31,899 and the GX4h will be £32,899 - postgovernment grant - which comes with MMCS, S-AWC, phone app and electric heater and therefore has a premium of £1,000. The diesel-powered GX4s is £33,999. The GX4hs will be £34,999 - post-government grant which also comes with MMCS, S-AWC, phone app and electric heater and therefore has a premium of £1,000.

Benefit in Kind (BIK) over the first 12 months, a company car driver getting behind the wheel of a PHEV enjoys a ‘virtual pay rise’ which will, of course, be much appreciated in these still-straitened times. When it comes to drive and performance, Outlander PHEV will certainly not disappoint. Impressively, the car can be driven for 32.5 miles in pure EV mode, the distance of the average daily commute. The official fuel consumption figure for PHEV is 148mpg, based on industry standards set by European law. Unlike non-hybrid vehicles, it is hard to predict what MPG the vehicle will return in real life. A lot depends on journey length and speed – for instance, for the average daily commute of 25 miles (SMMT statistic) most people will achieve much higher than 148mpg.

But good value doesn’t stop there. The car is so kind to the planet with emissions as low as 44g of CO2 per kilometre that no Vehicle Excise Duty is payable. There’s more good news on the financial front too. With just 5% 62

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

None of the benefits mentioned so far mean any compromise in the ownership experience however. With five seats and four-wheel-drive ability, there is an Outlander to suit every lifestyle – whether you’re busy running the family around, towing a caravan or horsebox, or tackling tricky off-road conditions in wintry weather. What’s more, to make things really easy, Mitsubishi Motors in the UK has partnered with British Gas, which will supply a free home-charging kit. Outlander PHEV boasts lots of other clever touches too. As well as the smartest hybrid technology on the market, an app is available which, among other things, enables you to heat the car in the morning, charge it while you sleep and conveniently control your PHEV ownership from wherever you happen to be. And being a Mitsubishi, the comfort and safety of the car’s occupants is assured, with a five-star Euro-NCAP rating ensuring peace of mind for driver and passengers alike. All in all, Mitsubishi PHEV is a car like no other.

STEAM ENGINE

THE WHEEL

ENVIRONMEN ALISM 1960’S

MOON LANDING

WE HAVEN’T JUST MADE HISTORY. WE’VE MADE A GALLON OF PETROL LAST 148 MILES1. With the new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, we haven’t just made a vehicle – we’ve made stopping at petrol stations a distant memory. Come and discover the fusion of electric and petrol technology that delivers a staggering 148 mpg and creates such low emissions that it’s exempt from both road tax and the London Congestion Charge. We’ve made history – you just need to make time for a test drive.

We call this Intelligent Motion.

FROM £28,249 - £34,999 THE WORLD’S FIRST 4WD PLUG-IN HYBRID SUV

BRINDLEY MITSUBISHI Main A5, Cannock, WS11 0BE

www. brindleymitsubishi.co.uk

Including £5,000 Government Plug-in Car Grant

01543 406629 Make time for a test drive

1. Official EU MPG test figure shown as a guide for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. 2. Prices shown include VAT (at 20%), exclude VED and First Registration Fee. Metallic paint extra. Model shown is an Outlander PHEV GX4h at £33,399 including metallic paint. Prices correct at time of going to print. For more information about the Government Plug-in Car Grant please visit www.gov.uk/plug-in-car-van-grants.

Outlander PHEV range fuel consumption in mpg (ltrs/100km): Full Battery Charge: inﬁnite, Depleted Battery Charge: 48mpg (5.9), Weighted Average: 148mpg (1.9), CO2 Emissions: 44 g/km. 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

Index Of Advertisers Accountants DSN Accountants Bathrooms AJG Property Maintenance & Service Ltd Beds & Bedroom Furniture CRS Interiors Italia Rootwood Roll-a-robe Beauty Cottage Surgery La Minky UltraSlim

53 15

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11 21

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Education Chase Grammar

Kitchens AJG Property Maintenance & Service Ltd

Fires/Fireplaces Fireside Factory

2 25

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31 43

Financial Planning Beaufort Planning

Furniture/Furnishings British Heart Foundation Britannia Pine CRS Interiors Italia Ralvern Ltd Rootwood

29 23 11 19 13 18

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Restaurants Blue Ginger Kings Repose Padma The Swan, Stafford Tiles Tile Choice Travel You can with a Campervan

Garden R.A.Kings 53 Standeford Garden Construction 16

Windows AJG Property Maintenance & Service Ltd Cloudy 2 Clear Winter Warmth

SUDOKU

PICTOGRAM

1. Half-hearted 2. The birds and the bees 3. The centre of attention

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

Lighting The Lighting Warehouse

Puzzle Answers CROSSWORD

Hypnotherapy Sue Starr

37 35 39 33 68 65 15 9 27

ermint! p p e P t e e m – n a rv e p You can with a Cam Peppermint lives in Huntington on the edge of Staffordshire’s Cannock Chase, she’s a Type 2 VW Campervan, and was born in May of 2011 - So is just a baby in the current Volkswagen world! She’s already had lots of exciting adventures and is looking forward to many more in the coming years (and playing a part in some very special moments). She’s looking forward to meeting you! So what can she offer? Sleeps up to four (plus several more with our additional VW camper awning/ tent!), with a double rock and roll bed big enough for two adults, and a pop top bunk with a weight limit of 16 stone (typically one adult or two children). A modern, complete and fully equipped kitchen, with fridge/freezer, two ring LPG hob, grill, and sink with water supply. Seating and dining area, complete with driver’s swivel chair! Seats five comfortably, with four over the shoulder seat belts, and lap belts throughout. CD stereo/radio and speakers, with ipod/mp3 player socket and cable.

Hire me for… • Proms • Weddings • Days out • Festivals & Events • Family holidays • Long weekends away • Corporate incentives • Roadtrips For your wedding? Inclusive of Champagne, chauffeur driven ride for Bride and Bridal Party to venue (seats four maximum), then Bride and Groom drop off at Reception. We are flexible, and will always try and accommodate your specific wedding transportation needs. Also, let us know if there is particular music you’d like to hear during your journey, Peppermint

has a CD stereo complete with an ipod/mp3 player socket. For your Prom We can offer Peppermint for your prom evening. Arrive in unique retro style, and be the envy of others! Seats four passengers and driver. Sorry, but we are unable to offer a prom chauffeur service. Peppermint cannot promise she won’t steal the show, and become the star guest at your event! GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE! If what you are looking for is not listed, then please contact us. We’re always on hand to help! We can also arrange photography packages to suit your mint experience, with our discounted package deals. Call 07969 806669 or log onto www.youcanwithacampervan.com

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01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

ecialists

p Four Ashes Renault S Four Ashes Renault Specialists Ltd is a wellestablished family run business situated just off the main A449 Stafford Road between Coven and Gailey. Now in our 9th year of trading the company has gone from strength to strength offering our excellent skills and services to the motor vehicle servicing/repair industry for both retail and trade customers. Here at Four Ashes we are considered by many as one of the best Renault diagnostic specialists in the country. We have Renault ‘CLIP’ diagnostic equipment, which is essential when working with Renaults and a highly skilled team with many years’ experience all of whom are Renault trained technicians and also a Renault Master Technician. We charge a £48 diagnostic fee but if we carry out any of the repair work relating to the diagnostic we waive the diagnostic fee. If your vehicle is still under manufacturer’s warranty we still can service your vehicle. We service all vehicles to manufacturers’ requirements and use genuine Renault parts, along with stamping your

service book (if available). Because we follow the correct guidelines and use genuine Renault parts your warranty is NOT affected. If you have an extended warranty on your vehicle with companies such as the AA, RAC, Warranty Direct, Motorcare and all other companies, we can carry out the repairs to your vehicle. We offer a free local pick up and drop off service for all service & MOT’s or

alternatively we can provide you with a free courtesy car (conditions apply). If required we can service your vehicle whilst you wait, we have a waiting room with TV and refreshments or alternatively we highly recommend a visit to the local pub FOUR ASHES INN if you fancy a bite to eat. In the event of a breakdown we have own recovery truck with very competitive rates and in some cases we offer free recovery.

LATEST NEWS!! 2.0L DCi VANS M9R Engine Injector problems? Engine Issues? Recently we have invested a lot of money in tooling to remove seized or broken injectors in M9R engines fitted in Trafic, Vivaro & Primastar vans in order to save our customers expensive repair bills. The seizing of these injectors is due to water ingress from poor sealing of the scuttle panel from factory. This water sits on top of the rocker cover which houses the injectors and over time the water penetrates the wells where the injectors sit. Corrosions then occurs which in turn short circuits the injector(s) causing misfires and cutting out issues. The problematic injectors(s) become an issue to remove due to the amount of corrosion they have suffered. We have seen many garages and customers incurring costs of £1000’s due to snapped injectors which have resulted in damaged cylinder heads and even worse complete engine replacements. At present we have a 100% success rate. We will also seal the scuttle panel after the repair free of charge to prevent any further ingress of water. 66

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

We can also carry out any other repair work to these M9R engines such as timing chain replacements and engine re-builds. Don’t risk the chance of costly repairs such as a replacement cylinder head or engine by attempting removal without the correct tools or knowledge, call the experts.

WHY PAY DEALERSHIP PRICES TO SERVICE

YOUR RENAULT? MINOR SERVICE £89* ALL INCLUSIVE

Servicing with us at Four Ashes will not affect your Manufactures Warranty. We also service all other Renault models out of the warranty period.

FULL SERVICE £149* ALL INCLUSIVE

www.fourashesrenault.co.uk NOW OPEN FOUR ASHES ACCIDENT REPAIRS LTD ALL IN-HOUSE FACILITY OFFERING A FULL RANGE OF BODYSHOP SERVICES

FOR ALL MODELS AND MODELS! Including: * Accident and Insurance Work * Full and Partial Resprays * Scratch and Chip Repairs * Alloy Wheel Repairs

Had an accident, in need of a respray? Give Us A Call!

11 Reg Vehicles (3 years old) - Your MOT is (or soon will be) due - Check your date of registration on your vehicle log book. • MOT testing arranged • Large stoock of new and used parts • Computerised diagnostic (main dealer equipment) • Accident/mechanical repairs & insurance work undertaken • All work is fully guaranteed! • Courtesy Cars free of charge • Pick up and Drop-off service* • Servicing while you wait *conditions apply, please call for more details

MOT WITH ANY SERVICE

£25 *All models over 3 years old and out of Renault warranty period. Prices start from as listed. Please call for more details and exact price for your vehicle.

09 Reg and 59 Reg Vehicles DONT FORGET YOUR CAM/TIMING BELT!

Most Renaults require Cam/Timing Belt change at 72,000 miles or 5 years (whichever comes first). Cam/Timing Belt failure will result in serious engine damage, so make sure yours is changed at the correct intervals. Call us for more details.

FOUR ASHES RENAULT SPECIALISTS Station Drive, Four Ashes, Wolverhampton WV10 7BU

01902 790123

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK

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CANNOCK

Units 25&26 Longford Ind.Est Longford Rd WS11 0DG

01543 469400

inc. natural stone

LICHFIELD

13 Titan Way Britannia Ent Park Lichfield WS14 9TT

01543 264795

WALSALL

Birchills House Birchills Ind.Est. Green Lane WS2 8LE

01922 746666

BILSTON

7 Millfields Road Bilston Wolverhampton WV14 0QJ

01902 405526

Also at: BURTON • DERBY • SHREWSBURY • WEST BROMWICH • BIRMINGHAM PERRY BARR • KIDDERMINSTER • BROMSGROVE • NORTHAMPTON • KETTERING • CORBY

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 68

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014