Staffordshire Outlook January 2019 by Staffordshire Outlook

January/February 2019

Great Prizes to be won inside this issue: Win a pair of tickets for Doctor Dolittle at the Grand Theatre Win a pair of tickets for the Shire Horse Society show Win a pair of tickets for Banff Film Festival at Gatehouse Theatre

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A Message From the Editor Hello readers, Welcome to the January/February edition of the Staffordshire Outlook magazine.

I hope you’ve all had a great Christmas with family and friends! I want to wish all of our advertisers and readers a Happy New Year! Let’s hope 2019 is a great year for us all! In this edition we have also have plenty of new advertisers including Wolverhampton Grammar School for their 2019 open days, Garolla Garage Doors for your new garage roller door and Clearstone Driveways for your new drive. All this inside and much more. The winners from the November /December 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 fantastic competitions in this edition, including tickets for Doctor Dolittle at The Grand Theatre, tickets for Shire Horse Society National Show and tickets for the Banff Film Festival. You could be one of the lucky winners, good luck!

The team at the Staffordshire Outlook are extremely grateful to the local advertisers who choose to advertise their business in the magazine, and to the readers who continue to support the Staffordshire Outlook. We hope that our readers 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 your read ……

Contents

Saving money 4/5 Shugborough Estate 6 Doctor Dolittle at the Grand Theatre 8 SI Cannock – League of Friends 10 New book in Lichfield 10 SI Cannock – Award winners 12 Council adopt Hednesford plan 12 Chase Fire and Fireplaces 14 Empire Kitchens & Appliances 16 Congratulations to: Cannock Rotary- New member 16 Winner of a pair of tickets for Sleeping Beauty at the Grand Theatre Puzzles 20 Fern Cranney, Hednesford New Year, new you 22 Winner of a pair of tickets to You Win Again 1st Class Developments 24 Pete O’Brien, Shareshill Midland Independent best practise 26 Winners of a pair of tickets for the Sandon Christmas Fair Garolla Garage Doors 27 Peter Langston, Hednesford Banff Film Festival 28 Donna Butler, Heath Hayes Clearstone Driveways 29 Ann Stubbs, Cheslyn Hay Tech Aluminum Systems Ltd 30 Marie Garfield, Burntwood Clearstone Driveway Cleaning 31 Katie Haynes, Wimblebury Winter garden bling 32 Standeford Garden 33 Paint Wizard 33 Mouse Facts - Penkridge Pest Control 36 Staffordshire Outlook Magazine Ltd Lowes Building & Maintenance 37 Tel: 01952 321334 Shire Horse National Show 38 St Valentine’s Day 40 Staffordshire Outlook Magazine is published Cannock WI 42 Stafford Coastal Cruising Club 42 by Staffordshire Outlook Magazine Limited Harrisons Sports club 43 The Kings Repose review 44/45 www.staffordshireoutlook.co.uk Recipe 46 Time to shake off the winter blues 48 New project in Cannock Chase 52 Advertising enquiries South Staffs Leisure 53 Sharon Caldwell - Sales Director The Stafford & Cannock League of Friends 54 Four Seasons Care 55 Email: sharon@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk Penkridge Runners 56 Cannock Rotary 10k run 56 Editorial/What’s on information Simon Hobbs Vein Clinic 57 Cannock Chase Commonwealth 2022 58 Mal Caldwell - Editor Golfers Memorial Day 58 Sue Starr Hypnotherapist 59 Email: info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk Top winter tips for pets 60 Ford Focus by Rob Taylor 62 Jaguar E Pace by Rob Taylor 63 Magazine design: Index of advertisers 64 Kate Dalgliesh - Graphic Designer Puzzle Solutions 64 What are Lasting Powers of Attorney 65 Email: design@etakcreative.co.uk Wolverhampton Grammar 66 We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Staffordshire Outlook magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert or editorial. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Staffordshire Outlook magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication maybe reproduced, stored in any retrieval system of transmitted in any form – electronic, mechanical, photo copying or otherwise – without the prior consent of Staffordshire Outlook magazine.*total distribution 20,000 copies across two months.

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START THE NEW YEAR

BY SAVING MONEY!

It has been said that the two certainties in life are death and taxes. Neither are something to look forward to, but with the advances we have seen in medical science over the years, the average age people die in the UK has risen from just under 72 to nearly 81 over the last fifty years. Immortality is still a long way off, so meanwhile the Life Insurance industry continues to provide valuable family protection. This costs money, but more on that later. Taxes are inevitable and when mentioned, they are usually accompanied with a deep sigh and a roll of the eyes, but when we find ways to reduce the amount

we pay through legitimate means, it tends to raise the spirits. It is as though we have got one over on the Inland Revenue. That is why I want to share something with you that will bring a smile to your face! Around 95% of the population overpay for their family protection and now you are probably wondering whether you are one of those. If you didn’t take out a relevant life assurance plan through your employer by way of a salary exchange, then the answer is probably, “Yes!” So, how does salary exchange work? Rather than paying for life assurance from your net income, you simply ask your employer to allow you to take a policy with the payment coming from your gross income. Savings are

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

therefore made on income tax and National Insurance contributions. If you want to express this in pounds and pence, the difference it makes to the monthly payments are as follows:For a basic rate tax payer to receive £100 per month net, you would need to gross £147.06. In addition to this your employer would pay NI of £20.29 giving a gross cost of 167.35. Your employer would receive corporate tax relief of £31.80 giving a net cost of £135.55. If however, you did a salary exchange, the same policy with the company paying and you exchanging £100 of your gross salary would cost them £81, a total saving of £54.55 or 40.24% of the cost. If you are a higher rate tax payer the savings are even higher and work out at

ÂŁ77.92 per month or 49.03% of the cost. This is a win-win scheme where both the employee and the employer benefit. Is there a smile on your face and you are now wanting to know what to do next? It is simple. Contact your financial adviser and give yourself a belated Christmas present of family protection at a fraction of the cost. Are you wondering whether you are still paying the full cost of life assurance when with a little thought and planning you can have the same level of cover at a heavily discounted rate? If you do not have a financial adviser this is something that we at Midland Independent Financial Services Limited specialise in and are only too happy to assist you with, as we work closely with many companies to ensure that every facet of financial planning is set up in the most tax efficient manner possible. If you are a company owner and want to add value to your employeesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; offering by allowing them to benefit from this, we are only too happy to arrange group presentations or workshops on a group or one to one basis.

Death and taxes are certainties, but the cost of planning for the loss of a family provider doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to cost as much as you think.

If you would like more information or need advice on your specific circumstances please feel free to contact the author John Webb of Midland Independent Financial Services Limited on 01543 468877 or john.webb@ midlandifa.co.uk Midland Independent Financial Services is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

John Webb

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

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

www.midlandifa.co.uk Throughout the year Midland Independent hold investment seminars with industry experts. If you would like to attend please email: info@midlandifa.co.uk

Step into the New Year by taking a trip to Shugborough Estate. The National Trust property in Staffordshire boasts of a historic farm yard, acres of beautiful parkland and gardens, waiting for you to enjoy. The mansion is closed until February half term while the team work hard to conserve and protect the special collection. However, you can still wonder through the Park Farm house, and see how tenants used to live. There are also bountiful opportunities to gift your time to the charity by volunteering at Shugborough. The estate has a range of positions including at the farm, in the gardens and in the mansion. Challenge yourself, make new friends and start the New Year right. Apply through their website today. year where specks of white will appear from the ground, as snowdrops are immerging. The estate boasts of a historic working farm, with animals such as longhorn cows, southdown sheep, dorkin chickens and tamworth pigs. As a working farm, the animals are out grazing in the fields keeping warm. This time of year, the farm team are testing to see whether the ewes are pregnant, ready for lambing season in the spring. Be sure to return in April to see all of the bouncing lambs on the estate.

Refresh your body and mind by taking part on a Workout walk, running through to the end of the month. Pick up a map from reception and journey between stations in the estate, which will encourage you to take part in some physical and mental wellbeing. On the 12th and 24th January, join our ranger team on the Naked Tree Walks. Wrap up warm and join in the adventure around our spectacular parkland and discover the beauty of our native trees in their bare winter glory. Keep an eye out for more seasonal events, and book your space on Shugborough’s website.

There is no better place to be than Shugborough when the season’s change. The Estate covers 900 acres of Grade 1 listed Parkland, for you to explore. Take a walk off the beaten track with your four legged friends and enjoy the misty mornings and hidden winter colours. You don’t have to stay by the mansion; the ranger team also look after land as far as Great Haywood Cliffs and Stafford Plantation. Make sure you ask at visitor reception for one of the walks maps. Just because the winter is here, it does not mean that the gardens at Shugborough are quiet. During this time, the team are carrying out some important improvement works to open up views across the gardens. This will make it easier for you to see the beautiful sites of the monuments, such as the stoic Doric Temple, scattered across the estate. This is the time of

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

Finish your day off with a tasty treat from one of the two tea rooms at Shugborough. Both serve hot and cold drinks, freshly baked cakes and biscuits, and some lovely warm meals. Step inside the newly refurbished Mansion Tea-room, perfectly located by the shop, and treat yourself to a larger lunch. Or, pop into Park Farm Café after your dog walks and grab a light bite and a warming hot chocolate, right in the heart of our farm yard. It’s a great place to stop and recharge your batteries. Every cup of tea you enjoy at Shugborough helps to look after estate now and into the future. Staffordshire County Council gave back management of Shugborough Estate to the National Trust in November 2016, and the site has been open under the Trust since March 2017. This means that all members have to do is to scan their card for entrance to the entire Estate. The site is open year round, only closing on Christmas day. The National Trust is a charity, meaning that your memberships, visits and any money you spend whilst on site, all goes towards caring for Shugborough Estate.

Get active at Shugborough Estate this New Year Shake off the cobwebs and start the New Year with a spring in your step. Join us on a Wellness Walk in January, and treat your mind and body to some TLC. Then, wrap up warm and bring the family on muck in days and create habitats for bugs in the warmer months. Call 01889 880160 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/shugborough #nationaltrust

When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support helps us to look after special places in Staffordshire such as Biddulph Grange and Wightwick Manor and Gardens for ever, for everyone.

ÂŠ National Trust 2018. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography ÂŠ National Trust Images\National Trust/David Goacher.

Competition

One lucky winner can win a pair of tickets to see DOCTOR DOLITTLE on Wednesday 30 January 2019 at 7:30pm.

You’ve never seen anything like it! Doctor Dolittle returns to the stage in Leslie Bricusse’s acclaimed family musical at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from 29 January – 9 February. Join the eccentric Doctor, his human companions and his exotic menagerie of animal friends on an extraordinary adventure to find the Giant Pink Sea Snail, that holds the secret of life and making the world a happier place. With help from the Pushmi-Pullyu and his trusty sidekick Polynesia the Parrot, the larger-than-life Doctor Dolittle teaches us not only to talk to the animals but to listen to them as well! Based on the popular 1967 film with Rex Harrison, this spectacular new stage show stars Mark Williams (Father Brown, The Fast Show, 101 Dalmatians, The Borrowers, Shakespeare in Love and seven of the Harry Potter film series) as Doctor Dolittle. Joining his exciting journey are the superb Adèle Anderson (Fascinating Aïda) as Lady Bellowes and the dangerous Poison Arrow, the hilarious Vicky Entwistle (Coronation Street, Ackley Bridge, Les Misérables) as his trusty side-kick Polynesia and with Brian Capron (Coronation Street, Grange Hill, Where The Heart Is) playing both the vivacious Albert Blossom and the mighty Straight Arrow. This exciting musical adventure is brought to you from the producers of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and The Addams Family and promises stunning visual puppetry, all your favourite songs and fun for all the family.

For more information and to book tickets visit grandtheatre.co.uk, visit the box office in person or call 01902 42 92 12.

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 Wednesday 23rd January 2019. Winners will be notified by telephone.

The Pushmi-Pullyu is represented in the Doctor Dolittle movie and musical as which double-headed animal? A) Dog B) Cat C) Giraffe D) Llama Competition Terms and Conditions Winners to collect tickets from the box office on the night of the show Wednesday 30th January 2019. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash alternative prize nights available. Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity

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SI Cannock & District Stafford and Cannock League of Hospital Friends President, June Bould, was delighted to welcome Zoe Pyatt, Housing Manager at Stafford and Cannock League of Hospital Friends to Cannock Soroptimist’s last speaker evening. Zoe captured the ladies’ attention by outlining the amazing work undertaken by the unique Charity. Far from the League of Friends indispensable coffee shops which effuse hospitality and for which the organisation is known, Zoe explained the Charity’s growth and expansion into providing supportive housing for individuals who are battling mental illness.

the Friends also remain committed to helping hospitalised patients by continually working to fundraise for improvement projects, such as the previous renovation of the Summerhouse at Cannock Chase Hospital. When she gave the vote of thanks Carole Holdcroft presented Zoe with a donation towards the work of the charity. For more information visit: www.sigbi.org/cannock-anddistrict; on Facebook www.facebook.com/SICannock; or on the twitter account @sicannock Photograph L – R Zoe Pyatt, President June Bould, Soroptimist Carole Holdcroft

The Charity, which was run solely by dedicated volunteers until 1996, now owns several properties in the Stafford area, recently purchasing their first in Cannock. Stafford and Cannock League of Hospital Friends work tirelessly to offer furnished, modern housing to those in need. They help to support vulnerable members of society by providing a tailored support service to aid recovery and beat addiction. Currently the League house forty three tenants. With a growing increase in demand, the Charity has ambitious plans to increase the number of one-bedroom properties that they own and work alongside veterans. Alongside this,

New Book in Lichfield Cathedral Gift Shop and Booking Office Drawn to the Light: A history of a Dark Time is a fresh update on the early history of the church with particular reference to Mercia and Lichfield. It brings together new thinking and archaeological discovery to explain how the early saints struggled to spread the Christian faith in the face of Roman suppression, pagan alternatives, scheming kings and Viking rampage. For those who love history, for teachers who have to explain local history and the visitor who simply wants to know more, the book provides some answers to help understand events which led to the eventual establishment of Christendom after a thousand years. 10

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

The book should help answer such questions as why Lichfield became an important Christian settlement, how the Saxons built the early church and which kings and bishops, especially Chad, nurtured its growth. Book costs £15.95 and is published by Brewin Books. Image shows the author Dr Robert Sharp, Cathedral Guide, and Alex Nicholson-Ward, Schools Liaison Manager.

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SI Cannock & District CANNOCK & DISTRICT AWARD WINNERS!! On Saturday 27th October, at the Soroptimist International Federation of Great Britain & Ireland annual conference, Cannock & District were given the Best Practice award for Education for their Your Body, Your Rules, anti sexting project! With 8,000 Members in 352 Clubs in 29 countries including Great Britain, Ireland and countries in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Malta Soroptimist International of Great Britain & Ireland (SIGBI), works at a local, national and international level to educate, empower and enable opportunities for women and girls. The six key areas of work are Advocacy, Economic Empowerment, Education, Environmental Sustainability, Food Security and Health Care and Violence and Conflict Resolution. SIGBI has consultative status at the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) at the United Nations (UN). The Your Body, Your Rules anti-sexting project has been launched in Five local schools: Cannock Chase High, Cardinal Griffin College, Chase Terrace Technology College,

Council adopts the Hednesford Neighbourhood Plan Following an Independent Examination and public referendum Cannock Chase Council has adopted the Hednesford Neighbourhood Plan. This is part of the development plan for the District and will be used to determine planning applications in the Hednesford Neighbourhood Area (same as the Hednesford Parish area). A Neighbourhood Plan can only be adopted following several stages of public consultation, independent examination and a majority ‘yes’ vote in a referendum of the local electorate (for the relevant Neighbourhood Area). Councillor Gordon Alcott, Portfolio Leader for Planning and Economic Development said “The Independent Examination report was received in June 2018 and the public referendum was held on the 11 October 2018. The referendum asked voters who live in Hednesford parish if they wanted Cannock Chase Council to use the Neighbourhood Plan for Hednesford to help it decide planning applications in the Neighbourhood Area. 79% of those who voted were in favour of the Neighbourhood Plan, this is good news for Hednesford.” Cannock Chase Council resolved to adopt the Hednesford Neighbourhood Plan on the 28 November 2018. The Decision Statement sets out the reasons for the decision, 12

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

Staffordshire University Academy and Kingsmead High School. Ambassadors from years 12 & 13 have attended workshops on how to spread the message to their fellow students on the dangers & consequences of sending and receiving nude photographs and to provide support to those who feel pressured to do this. It is hoped that after the halfterm break, the initiatives they have developed will start to be seen in the schools. June Bould, President of SI Cannock and District represented the club at the conference, held in Liverpool, along with other members who all took to the stage to accept the award. After the ceremony, she said ‘How delighted & proud I am that our Your Body, Your Rules project won the Education category at the Federation Conference. Jackie Prince & Trish Mellor have worked extremely hard over the last 6 months on the project with the support of all of the members of our club’. Jackie Prince, one of the Soroptimists that organised & delivered the training to the ambassadors at the workshops said ‘We are delighted to receive this award as recognition that our belief that peer to peer learning on healthy relationships is essential for our young people. Our ambassadors have worked very hard to produce a number of methods of getting the message across that sending or distributing nude photographs is unacceptable. We anticipate that the project will continue to grow in the future’ namely that more than half of those voting in the referendum voted in favour of adopting the Hednesford Neighbourhood Plan and that the Hednesford Neighbourhood Plan meets the basic conditions and other relevant legal requirements (as set out in the Localism Act 2011 and supporting regulations). Neighbourhood planning aims to help local communities play a direct role in planning for areas in which they live and work. A Town or Parish Council is responsible for preparing a Neighbourhood Plan. The plan can show how the community wants to shape the development of the local area and when formally adopted it is used to determine planning applications in the relevant Neighbourhood Area. In this case, Hednesford Town Council has produced the Hednesford Neighbourhood Plan for the Hednesford Neighbourhood Area (Hednesford Parish). The Hednesford Neighbourhood Plan and accompanying ‘decision statement ‘are available to view on the Cannock Chase Council website https://www.cannockchasedc.gov. uk/residents/planning/planning-policy/neighbourhoodplanning or hard copies are available to view at the following locations during normal opening hours: Cannock Chase Council Civic Centre offices, Beecroft Road, Cannock, WS11 1BG Pye Green Community Centre, Bradbury Lane, Hednesford, Cannock, WS12 4EP Hednesford Library, Market Street, Hednesford, WS12 1AD

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One-stop kitchen appliance shop kitchens & appliances

Empire is Cannock’s new one-stop Kitchen and Appliance shop. Launched last year by Phil Cox, his wife and his two children. Empire really is a family run business. Their brand new kitchen showroom has just opened. Selling brands such as Laura Ashley, Milano and Linear by Symphony. Empire is able to meet the needs of their customers, whatever their budget. The brand new kitchens compliment their huge range of appliances which include brands such as Smeg, Stoves, Belling, Hotpoint, Hoover, Neff and De Dietrich. But buying locally doesn’t mean you have to pay more as Phil explains: “We can confidently say our service, quality and prices won’t be beaten.” So if you’re looking to upgrade your home, whether it’s a new kettle, range cooker or kitchen, pop into Empire Kitchen & Appliances for a personal and professional service. Empire Kitchen & Appliances Cannock showroom, located next to The Range.

Showroom Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday 9am – 5.30pm Sunday 10.00am - 4.00pm

The Rotary Club of Cannock Rotary welcomes third new member this year.

At their meeting on the 15th November the Rotary Club of Cannock was delighted to welcome Malcolm Hill as new member. Malcolm who is retired and lives in Hednesford has been visiting the club for a number of weeks and was inducted by Club President David Gardiner. Following his induction Malcolm stated “that he was pleased to become a member of the Cannock club who had a long history of supporting the community of Cannock and also helping so many people in disaster areas around the world” The Cannock club now has a growing membership and Malcolm is the third new member to be inducted in the current Rotary year. The Cannock Club now has 43 active members plus 6 honorary members. President David told the meeting that they pleased that Malcolm had chosen to become active members and welcomed them to Rotary which is an international organisation with some 1.2 million members across the world and has been established for more than 110 years, Rotary’s members use their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

Photograph L-R Malcolm Hill with Club President David Gardiner sustainable projects, from literacy and peace to water and health, they are always working to better our world and local community and they stay committed to the end. The Cannock Club is now in its 83rd year being first chartered in 1936 The Cannock Club already has a number of events planned including Health Awareness days along with many social and fellowship events. For more information visit www.cannockrotary.co.uk or email secretary@cannockrotary.co.uk.

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Green Lane, Cannock, WS11 0JJ Telephone 01543 502536

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gutterpro.co.uk 01889 722009 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 17

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STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

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

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

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

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01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 21

New Year, New You! Set realistic goals to achieve New Year’s resolutions On the eve of 2018, many of us will follow the tradition of making a New Year’s resolution. But realities show that most of us won’t achieve that resolution by the time 2019 comes around or maybe ever.

simply saying you’re going to lose weight or stop smoking won’t happen if you don’t have a plan and specific goals to do so. Set small, attainable goals throughout the year, instead of overwhelming goals on Jan 1st. If your goal is to lose weight, figure out what steps you need to work on to achieve that. That could mean finding time in your schedule to go to the gym or finding other ways to exercise that you can squeeze in. If it’s to save money, it might mean also taking time to pack a lunch to take to work every day rather than going to the sandwich shop next door (that might help you achieve your weight-loss goal, too). If you’re trying to stop smoking, recognise most people can’t quit cold turkey and you’ll probably need to find some stop smoking tools or classes. Set benchmarks, but make them realistic. Don’t expect to lose 2 stone that first month, for example. Perhaps your resolution is simply that you weigh less at the end of January than you did on the first of the month, and the same applies for February and March until you get an idea of what is realistic. Then set goals for future months based on what you learned.

Some people will make resolutions that are mostly out of their control, “I’m going to fall in love this year,” or “I’m going to get my dream job”, but there are plenty of achievable lifestyle changes we could all make to improve our health and well-being in the coming year.

Don’t beat yourself up if you don’t quite hit or goals or ended up cheating a little. Smoking a cigarette after a high-stress day at work doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Neither does having dessert one night when you’re out with friends. Keep your eye on the long-term prize.

Whether it’s to lose weight, save more money or quit smoking, the reality is that making a New Year’s resolution is simple goal-setting, something that most of us likely do every day at work or elsewhere in our lives. Some of those achievements are big, and some of them are minor victories. And whether we realise it, most of those achievements came from having a plan.

If you can, find someone who shares a similar goal. Find a workout buddy or someone at work who used to smoke and could be leaned on for support.

New Year’s resolutions tend to be sweeping declarations of improvement in the coming year. But 22

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

Lifestyle changes are hard, because our behaviours, both the good and the bad, are developed over time. If you set a resolution to make a change in 2019, recognise that it won’t be easy. But let’s all resolve to make a positive change in the coming 365 days and set a prize for achieving it.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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1st Class Developments Here at 1st Class Developments we aim to tackle problems better than anyone else. We have years of experience, knowledge that can be applied throughout the many services we provide. From residential to commercial, our projects have no limitations and are planned to fit your requirements exactly.

We will be looking at carrying out various projects ranging from £25,000 domestic projects all the way up to £6m developments, with clients / contacts ranging from private individuals through to blue-chip industrial clients, architects and developers. What characterises our offer - whether your business is in private developments and refurbishments, small works or public and commercial new builds - is that our values will remain completely consistent. Our name relies upon the professionalism and attention to detail we exhibited in our own individual businesses. With every aspect of our work this quality assurance is something we take extremely seriously.

It is the policy of 1st Class Developments to provide all our customers and clients with a quality of service and a completed building or product which is value for money, satisfies both their expectations and requirements, and is completed within a reasonable timescale. Private housing extensions, as a key facet of construction in The Midlands, plays a significant role in our workload at 1st Class. For domestic projects we are just as happy to provide our own in-house Architectural designer and engineers as we are to proceed on a design and build basis with a clients’ preferred professionals, but whatever stage your scheme is at we are happy to advise you on the best way to proceed based on your budget and timescales. We firmly believe that keeping clients involved in the development and specification of the building as it proceeds, and as an integral part of the team, is the best way to ensure a successful outcome on completion. In our experience, the best results occur when we are brought in with the client and their appointed architect to discuss designs and layouts at an early stage. Our experience and acknowledged expertise in the design and build sector is of great benefit - both in identifying and resolving problems early and also in ensuring works can commence on site in the most efficient manner. Working in collaboration we can ensure efficient cost controls are maintained and ensure that agreed programmes of work are effectively carried out at every stage - without any nasty surprises. Our in house designer has been involved in the construction industry since 1987 and has been preparing drawings since 1996. When we offer a ‘Design and Build’ package, our designer who specialises in 3D design work will work closely with you our client through the whole process of the works from initial concept through to completion. We also have close contact with structural/consulting engineering practices with whom we have developed a close working relationship

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

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With over 30 years experience in Designing and Building all types With Withover over30 30 years years experience experience in in of projects you can rest assured that we Designing Designingand andBuilding Building all all types types of of will deliver what is right for you. projects projects you you can canrest rest assured assured that that we we will willdeliver deliverwhat whatis isright right for for you. you. Specialists in:

One Off New Executive Homes Specialists Specialists in: in: Builds Multiple Garage & Loft Conversions One OneOff OffDwellings New NewBuilds Builds Executive Executive Homes Homes Extensions 3D Architectural Design Work Multiple MultipleDwellings Dwellings Garage Garage& &Loft LoftConversions Conversions Traditional Roofing Specialists Extensions Extensionsand 3D 3DTrussed Architectural Architectural Design Design Work Work

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A high quality garden maintenace and improvement AAhigh highquality qualityservice. garden garden maintenace maintenace and and improvement improvementservice. service. We offer the full range of services covering Slabbing, Decking, Laying, Tree We Weoffer offerthe the full fullrange rangeLawn of of services services covering covering Surgery, Removal,Lawn Driveways, Garden Slabbing, Slabbing,Tree Decking, Decking, Lawn Laying, Laying, Tree Tree Design and Construction to the highest Surgery, Surgery,Tree Tree Removal, Removal, Driveways, Driveways, Garden Garden standards. Design Design and and Construction Construction to to the the highest highest standards. standards. For a FREE QUOTE contact 01543 503212 Scott 986832 or Jason 07870 728725 For Fora07912 aFREE FREEQUOTE QUOTEcontact contact 01543 01543 503212 503212 Scott Scottwww.1stclassdevelopments.co.uk 07912 07912986832 986832 or or Jason Jason 07870 07870 728725 728725 First Class UK Developments Limited www.1stclassdevelopments.co.uk www.1stclassdevelopments.co.uk UnitFirst 5, Shorade Business Estate, New Street, First Class ClassUK UK Developments Developments Limited Limited Bridgtown, Cannock WS11 0DH Unit Unit5, 5,Shorade ShoradeBusiness BusinessEstate, Estate, New New Street, Street, Bridgtown, Bridgtown,Cannock CannockWS11 WS11 0DH 0DH

Midland Independent Financial Services Honoured for Best Practice It’s hard to know where to turn when you’re looking for a business to trust.

An advert on an unsolicited flyer is a risk. The internet brings with it its own risks. For many of us, only a recommendation from a close friend or family member is acceptable, but even then who knows? A safer bet is opting to look for a review in a respected publication, such as The Parliamentary Review especially when it comes to looking after your hard-earned cash. So you’ll be pleased to learn that Cannock-based pensions and investment specialist Midland Independent Financial Services has just featured in the esteemed publication, which provides sector specific insight from journalists, Secretaries of State, Ministers and MPs in an indispensable guide to industry best practice. Managing Director John Webb started the business in 1994 - it operated originally alongside mortgage business Midland IFA before merging with it in 2008 - and it is today held as a shining example of its kind; it features in The Parliamentary Review to help raise standards across the industry. Now this is just the kind of endorsement you need when choosing a pension and investment expert. “We often say that you should always treat others as you wish to be treated yourself. Everything focuses on our clients at Midland Independent - with no exception,” says John, as he lays out processes and practices that have been key to his success. “Our philosophy has always been to put ourselves, with our knowledge, in our clients’ shoes and think about what we would do. For a earn tlot 26 16

John Webb, founder and managing director of them I personally see myself as something of a life coach. “A lot of clients come to me asking about, for instance, a new job they’ve been offered. It’s not all about the money. Many clients, who have spent their lives accumulating wealth, find it difficult to spend; when they retire, we can help them to ‘break the mould’ and enjoy life.” For a man whose business is in being analytical and meticulous, someone who can explain why final salary transfers are the same as defined benefit pensions, he is refreshingly philosophical on life. Never in it for a fast buck, John recalls a recent case in point: “A client I was recently introduced to came to me asking about rearranging her finances as, following a divorce, she suffered serious financial difficulties. I spent some time advising her on how to plan for the future. We did not charge her for this advice; I know that, in the future, when she is in a position to pay for our services, she will. Without our clients, we have no business, so it makes sense that everything we do is for their betterment.”

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

Another example of this ‘client-first’ approach is John’s aversion to a coming future where contingency charging, which in effect means that if no business is transacted with a client there’s no charge, is banned and shows again in his attitude towards the fear mongers who prey upon individuals reeling from newly relaxed pension laws. His unwillingness to relent to the tactics of others and force Midland Independent Financial services down the throats of its clients has allowed the business to grow “organically” at its own rate - all the way to employing an impressive 11 people and last year recording a turnover of £1.24 million. No wonder The Parliamentary Review took notice; after all it is sent to over 500,000 leading business executives and policy makers and in recent years has featured forewords by Theresa May, David Cameron and many other leading political figures. It’s about time you too took notice because there’s really nowhere better than Midland Independent Financial when it comes to financial planning and wealth management. wolverhampton west magazine

Garolla: A Garage Door you can Trust Garolla is a market leader in the roller garage industry, revolutionising the way we look at our garage doors. Delivering unmatched quality and impeccable service, it’s no wonder that Garolla is fast becoming a household name. Now expanding into the Staffordshire area and beyond, it’s never been easier to find the perfect garage door for you. Manufactured from strong, yet surprisingly lightweight aluminium, every roller garage door is hand made by experts with over 20-years’ experience. These highly skilled professionals pay special attention to detail ensuring every door passes several quality control checks before being sent out and fitted by your local installer. The security of your garage is of upmost importance, which is why Garolla takes extra care to ensure their garages are as close to impenetrable as possible. As well as using top grade materials, every garage door comes with a patented locking system that prevents it from being forced out of place. Coupled with high strength locks, an octagonal barrel and twin walled slats, you can sleep easy knowing your garage is well protected by a Garolla garage door. Operate your new door from the comfort of your own car thanks to Garolla’s unclonable remote controls. Access is as quick as pressing a button, meaning there’s no more battling the elements just to get into your garage.

Low-maintenance, these garage doors just need the occasional wipe down to continue looking as good as the day you bought them. Available in a stunning selection of 18-colours, you can now match your home’s exteriors with your own personal style. Whether you’re looking for classic white or an adventurous Moss Green, Garolla has the perfect design to suit you. And thanks to their up-front price promise you can avoid any unexpected charges. Prices include measuring, installation and VAT. With no hidden costs to worry about, transforming your home has never been so simple thanks to Garolla. To find out more visit their website at www.Garolla.co.uk or give them a call on 0800 468 1982.

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 27

10 years of the UK & Ireland Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour!

Competition

Photo: Valentine Fabre, Dent du Géant © Ben Tibbetts

The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is celebrating its 10th year of touring the UK and Ireland, bringing over 100 adrenaline-packed shows to almost 60 venues from January May 2019. The Tour features two different collections of brand-new films from the world’s most intrepid film-makers, starring pioneers and explorers tackling extraordinary expeditions in the wildest corners of the planet. “We’re thrilled to have reached 10 years of bringing the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour to the UK and Ireland – and what better way to celebrate than with the latest dose of cutting-edge adventure films from the world’s most prestigious mountain festival!” says Tour Director Nell Teasdale. “We guarantee that the anniversary atmosphere at the shows will be buzzing – and that audiences will go home inspired to have an adventure of their own as well,” she adds. Films in the World Tour are selected from hundreds entered into the Banff Mountain Film Festival, which takes place for every November in Canada’s Rocky Mountains. The UK & Ireland Tour starts in Edinburgh on Saturday 19 January and finishes in Guildford on Friday 24 May. As well as thrilling films, each event features a free prize draw for exciting outdoorsy goodies from the Tour Partners.

For more information and to book tickets, see www.banff-uk.com. 28

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

This month we have teamed up with Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour for one lucky winner the chance to win a pair of tickets to attend the film festival on Wednesday 6th February 2019 at 7.30pm at The Gatehouse Theatre, Stafford. To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, simply answer the following question:

The Banff Mountain Film Festival is celebrating how many years of touring? a. 5 b. 15 c. 10 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 Wednesday 30th January 2019. Winners will be notified by telephone.

Competition Terms and Conditions Terms and conditions: Winners are to collect tickets from the box office at The Gatehouse Theatre on the night of the show Wednesday 6th February 2019. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash alternative prize nights available.

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The appearance of your driveway can create an impression about your home and lifestyle. An attractive driveway may add value to your home or provide a focal point for passers-by. Clearstone specialise in three main types of driveway. Our Block Paved Driveways can be laid in any design or colour, depending on your requirements, they are durable and long lasting. Or you could give your drive that stylish designer look with a NEW resin bound driveway. If a classic look is more your style, then we can also provide you with a high quality tarmac drive, the choice is yours. Resin bond gravel driveways in Staffordshire are becoming increasingly popular because they drastically improve the look of existing driveways. There are two main types of resin surfaces, and they both work on the principle of combining coloured stone aggregate with resin. A resin bonded product is where the driveway is laid with these two ingredients separately. The resin is painted over the surface, stone is scattered over this, and then another layer of resin is added to set it in place. Resin bound is where the aggregate and resin are mixed together in a special concrete mixer, before being trowelled into place, and spread to a uniform thickness.

Both methods work well, and the results can be spectacular, long lasting and hard-wearing. There is no need for costly, disruptive excavation; resin bound surfacing is applied to your existing driveway surface, and we deliver a finish that’s unmatched by any other surface, on driveways, patios and pathways. It’s can be applied to almost any solid surface including tarmacadam, concrete, block paving even flagstones, leaving you with a very attractive, natural look, and a smooth finish for years to come. Using resin bound surfacing, a highly durable surface choice for pathways and drives, resin bound driveways will save you money on maintenance, and are extremely eco-friendly. Please contact us for your free no obligation quote: www.clearstonedrivewaysuk.co.uk Email: info@clearstonedrivewaysuk.co.uk T: 01543 886820

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CLEARSTONE DRIVEWAY CLEANING RESTORE YOUR DRIVEWAY TO ITS FORMER GLORY

Clearstone Driveway Cleaning are a driveway cleaning company that specialises in power washing. Our business is based in Cannock, and working in the surrounding Staffordshire area. We have the expert knowledge to restore your surface to its former glory. First impressions count and with the great British weather driveways can quickly gather moss, ingrained dirt and lichen. Over the last 10 years, many people have had a lovely patio or hard standing areas to gain more space and to keep maintenance to a minimum. However while these look exceptional when they are firstly completed they can without the proper upkeep soon become quite abandoned looking, this is where we can come to your rescue and get your surface gleaming again. A man is as only as good as his tools, this statement is very true and this is why Clearstone Driveway Cleaning have invested in the very latest High Pressure Rotary surface cleaner, with the correct tools. Homeowners and businesses can rely on us to transform your driveway or any other hard surface back to that dazzling look again, giving a great first impression of your property, leaving you to enjoy you smarter looking surroundings.

If you are thinking about Driveway or Patio cleaning in Staffordshire, then Clearstone Driveway Cleaning are the answer! What Our Customers Say: My driveway had accumulated a vast amount of foreign bodies, from grass growing in between the blocks to a rather nasty cover off moss. Clearstone cleaned it all off and left me with a pristine driveway again, I won’t leave it years before I call them again. Mr R.Ward Walsall Initially I just wanted my patio cleaning as it was looking very tired, but after Clearstone made such a good job of it, my husband had them do the car parks of both his businesses. I can’t believe what a difference it makes. Mrs E Edwards Stafford Please contact us for your free no obligation quote. Phone: 01543 886820 Email: info@clearstonedrivewaysuk.co.uk Website: www.clearstonedrivewaycleaning.co.uk

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Winter Garden Bling When the flowers have faded, the autumn leaves have blown away and stems turned brown the garden can look a dreary place; on hold and waiting for spring to awaken it. But there is plenty sparkle and colour to be had as winter takes hold. Walking round my garden last winter I found so much to take my eye and delight me.

The first eye-catcher is a big splash of colour from the stems or berries of a tree or shrub. The flowering dogwoods (Cornus alba) are blazing with colour from their bare stems. My favourites include the orange “Midwinter Fire”, the deep red “Sibirica” and even the black “Kesselringii” which looks stunning with the wan winter sun shining through. The snakebark maples are spreading their intricately patterned branches against the winter sky with red twigs and olive-green and cream trunks. “George Forrest” has the best coloured twigs and “Serpentine” the best trunk pattern. The trunks of Himalayan birch (Betula jackmontii) is white like bleached bones against the shadows. Another favourite is the trunk of the Tibetan Cherry (Prunus serrula) whose dark red bark looks polished to mirror finish and is filled with swirling patterns of colour. Shrubs and trees are still covered with berries. My favourite of all is holly with all its Christmas associations and memories. The Redwings will soon fly in from Scandinavia and strip the trees of this winter feast. The firethorns (pyracantha) are living up to their name: the yellowberried ones haven’t been stripped yet and the stems of Cotoneaster horizontalis are firmly vertical, splayed out against a fence and studded with small red berries. Evergreen shrubs and plants add some colour through the winter, particularly the showy heucheras like “Caramel”, “Blackberry Jam” or “Geisha Fan”. On this frosty morning the leaves are coated and edged with ice and look like candied fruits. Frost, ice and dew make the garden sparkle. Frozen droplets hang, suspended from the wheaten seed heads of giant

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

oats (Stipa gigantea) and glisten on the heads of feather grasses (Miscanthus and Calamagrostis), shining brightly in the low sun. Evergreen spurges (Euphorbia) become sprinkled with diamond-dust of dew and ice and this will cause them to bow their heads as it melts, recovering their pose when the weather warms up. The crinkly leaves of the sun roses (Cistus) are edged with frost and even the watering can and rabbit-wire fences are transformed into sculptural shapes by the frost. The dead-stems of herbaceous plants are dusted with frost and seemingly shining in the light. My favourites are Turkish

sage (Phlomis russeliana) with pepper pot seed heads; sea holly (Eryngium) draped with silver strings of frosted spider web; and the dead-heads of coneflowers (Rudbeckia) like silver-edged spears pointing to the sky. Winter may seem long and cold, but there’s always some bling to brighten the short days.

Martin Blow Janet & I run Special Perennials, our website www. specialperennials.com is full of colour photos and growing tips. We sell by mail order and at Plant Hunters’ Fairs only throughout the season. Please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 2019 We will be at the Plant Hunters’ Fair at The National Memorial Arboretum, DE13 7AR on Sunday 10th March 2019, free entry to Plant Fair & Arboretum; Carsington Water, Ashbourne DE6 1ST on Saturday 16th March free entry to Fair & Country Park; Alderford Lake, Whitchurch SY13 3JQ on Sunday 17th March, free entry to Fair; Sugnall Walled Garden, Nr Eccleshall ST21 6NF on Saturday 23rd March, Fair & Garden entry £1; Middleton Hall, Nr Tamworth B78 2AE on Sunday 31st March, entry to Garden, Hall and Fair £3; Sandwell Valley Country Park, West Bromwich B71 4BG on Saturday 13th April free entry to Fair; Consall Hall Gardens, Wetley Rocks ST9 0AG on Sunday 14th April, Fair & Garden entry £3; and at the wonderful Dorothy Clive Garden, TF9 4EU on Easter Sunday/Monday 21st/22nd April, Fair & Gardens £4 (less than half standard price). We are happy to bring orders to plant fairs for you to collect.

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Tile Choice will now be working in partnership with George Clarke, architect, TV presenter, campaigner and educator. George is the voice of our new radio adverts and will be making an appearance at one of our stores very soon. George Clarke believes that architecture, art and design should be accessible to all and has the power to transform and enrich lives. George recognises and values the process that enables people to unlock the beauty of where they live. There is generally no place like home, this is the space which allows for creative form and expression that we can all embrace and manipulate. We all have the possibility of experimenting with our environment and in doing so improving the way we live and hopefully learn something new along the way. Some of George’s TV programmes include Old House New Home, Amazing Spaces and Restoration Man. George believes that “Home is the most powerful form of architecture that affects us all, and if you are lucky enough to have a warm and comfortable roof over your head, it is a very special place indeed”. 36 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019 28 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | NOVEMBER 2018

George aims to challenge the notion that great art and design is only accessible by the few and he tries to shine the spotlight on many disciplines including the more traditional spheres of architecture, art and design. Sharing skills and knowledge whether undertaking a brave restoration or a new build on a budget, he emphasises the value of a team which includes a combination of architect, designer, engineer, craftsman, artists, manufacturer and owner. His tastes and interests are wide-ranging – architecture, painting, photography, furniture, art, clothing, motorcycle and bike design. For him, the vital key is whether they have been designed with passion and integrity. For more information visit his website. With our ever expanding range of tiles which is frequently updated to fulfil not only the latest trends but also covering the classic, traditional styles. Here at Tile Choice we believe style can be achieved no matter what the budget is, why not pop in to store or give us a call to speak with one of our friendly, knowledgeable members of staff for design ideas to create an amazing space and a free, no obligation quote so you are ready to transform your home.

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Win tickets for the 2019 National Shire Horse Show

Organisers of the world’s largest gathering of Shire horses have announced the date for the 2019 National Shire Horse Show. The Shire Horse Society will return to Staffordshire Showground for the fourth time – staging its annual show from 22nd to 24th March 2019. Expected to attract around 250 pedigree Shire horses from across Europe, the show is the flagship event for the organisation which is the only charity dedicated to the protection, promotion and improvement of the Shire horse. Visitors can watch the iconic breed in all its finery, with horses put through their paces in-hand, ridden and in-harness. There’s the chance to find out more about Shire horses and their role throughout history. Plus, the popular stable tours introduced for the first time in 2018 will return in 2019. New for 2019’s show is a dedicated Food Hall – selling artisan and speciality foods – which will complement the wide range of trade stands that provide browsing and shopping opportunities for visitors.

“It’s really important that we continue our valuable work to support and protect the breed, which was in danger of dying out completely just a few decades ago, and we look forward to welcoming lots of members, supporters and visitors to our flagship event once again.” The Shire horse has played a huge role in the history of Great Britain, but as a breed it is still regarded as an endangered species, with fewer than 300 pedigree Shire horse foals registered every year. The Shire Horse Society’s National Show gives visitors the chance to get up close to the gentle giants of the horse world and help secure the breed’s future, added Victoria.

“We’re pleased to announce the date for our 2019 National Shire Horse Show and are looking forward to returning to Staffordshire Showground from 22nd to 24th March – our fourth visit to the venue,” said Shire Horse Society secretary Victoria Clayton.

Tickets are now on sale on the Shire Horse Society’s website www.shire-horse.org.uk

“This event is the opportunity not only for our members to compete and win prizes in their classes, and to qualify for the Horse of the Year Show, it’s also the chance for us to raise the profile of the Shire horse, which is currently regarded as an ‘at risk’ breed by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust.

For your chance to win this prize please answer the following question

This month we’ve once again teamed up with the organisers to offer the chance to win a pair of tickets to this great event.

How many Shire Horses are expected at the 2019 event? a. 300 b.275 c. 250 Email your answer to info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk or on a postcard to 30 Swinburne Close, Sutton Heights, Telford TF7 4PZ. Please ensure you include your name, address and telephone number. Entries to arrive by Thursday 31st January 2019. Terms and Conditions: Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries and notified by telephone. Prize is a pair of tickets to be used for the 22nd, 23rd or 24th March 2019. No cash or alternative prize available.

DECEMBER 2018 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK OUTLOOK || NOVEMBER 2018 38 38 STAFFORDSHIRE JANUARY 2019

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St. Valentine's Day - A Mystery of Love

As a nation we are not particularly prone to celebrating saints’ days. We don’t do as many parts of Europe do, hold fun-filled festivals to celebrate this or that saint’s memory. Few of us celebrate a saint’s day dedicated to ourselves as they do in France say. Indeed if you asked the average personin-the-street to name any saint and the day he or she is celebrated, St.Valentine’s Day would probably be the only one they could name with any certainty. Stranger still is the fact that this particular saint is no longer included on the Vatican’s ‘official’ list of saints. So who was this extraordinarily persistent saint, when did he live? Where did he come from? And why for goodness’ sake, does he represent everlasting and passionate love? There are several candidates. Some say he was a bishop from Terni who met a martyr’s death in Rome either during the time of Claudius the Second or perhaps Aurelian. If during the latter’s period of influence, then the date has been set at AD 271 with the event actually occurring on February 14th. Then there was a Roman priest martyred for his faith in AD 269, an Umbrian bishop executed in AD 273 and any of a series of nameless centurions who followed their Christian loved ones into the arena when they were condemned to martyrdom for their beliefs. Trying to relate the dates of these martyrs to February 14th is hardly possible because the calendar has been changed radically since those ancient times. February 15th saw the start of the Roman festival of Lupercalia which was a favourite time for Roman emperors to stage mass executions for the edification of the Roman people.

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

The Lupercalia was also a festival dedicated to the celebration of fertility and indirectly love. Young men roamed the streets dressed in the skins of sacrificial animals, in pursuit of any woman or girl they could catch. Any female touched by one of these young men was assured of her fertility in the coming year - for one reason or another! The river god Pan was also said to roam abroad at this time and could be encountered in the reeds by rivers and streams. Doubtless many an encounter took place but whether Pan was responsible for the result is an open question! The Romans brought the Lupercalia to Britain but it is pretty certain that a similar festival pre-dated its arrival. The Romans as usual, simply mixed and matched both religions and festivals and added them to their own extensive pantheon of gods and list of celebratory events. It is an interesting fact that only in Britain is this festival still observed. A similar custom once observed in France on the 1st day in Lent and dedicated to Pan and Juno is long defunct. When trying to trace the shadowy figure behind the legend, the fact that Roman soldiers were the main celebrants of the day does indicate a connection with that unfortunate centurion, though whether he died voluntarily for love, was executed for some misdemeanour or was killed accidentally while shepherding his prisoners into the arena, will probably never be known. The truth is the day is probably a composite of several Pagan festivals, Christianised at some time by missionaries in the way they did at the time and given the name of some unfortunate martyr who just happened to meet his death at around the appropriate date. The Lupercalia itself was eventually superseded by the Feast of Candlemass, and St.Valentine, whoever he was, was left on the calendar of saints because there was simply no one else to claim the day. One thing is certain, if he did indeed exist as a person, he would have been amazed to know how long his sacrifice would be remembered.

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Cannock Women’s Institute This month we started to get into the Christmas spirit with a day out organised by Barbara. Any W.I. activity has got to involve food and drink! So, our first stop was at Stephenson’s café for coffee and cakes before entering Chesterfield St Mary’s Church Christmas Tree Festival. This magnificent church is celebrated for its 14th century crooked spire, and was wonderfully decorated and lit, and with the ambience further created by music from a grand piano. Next stop was Tissington Hall for a Christmas Lunch and a warming glass of wine: this lifted the spirits from a dark and dismal day weather-wise! Tissington Hall was decorated for Christmas with the theme of Peter Pan. Our guides ushered us from the ‘Wendy House’ to the ‘Flying Ship’, through ‘Neverland’ and away from the ‘Ticking Crocodile’! In each room we were read a taster from the storyline; and looked for Tinkerbell. We found her! – in the guise of our own Barbara with fairy wings!

traditional methods, such as chairs, spoons, fencing posts and benches. He also bought along items for sale. Our W.I. meetings are on the second Thursday of the month 10.30am at St Luke’s Church Centre, Cannock. Visitors are always welcome to come and join us for refreshments and a chat, to see if they would like to join the W.I. Cannock Women’s Institute Further information from The President on 01889 582632 and www.thewi.org.uk/ staffordshire www.facebook.com/oakleafstlukes Picture - Cannock W.I. members and friends at Chesterfield Church Christmas Tree Event

Our regular monthly meeting welcomed speaker and woodman Michael Taylor who, a few years ago, realised his ambition of owning a wood. The 8 acres lie beneath The Wrekin, and because there is a ditch surrounding the wood it indicates to Roman origins. A variety of trees, animals and flora were shown on a presentation to highlight Michael’s talk. Michael now sustainably manages the woodland by coppicing, burning wood for charcoal and making items, by

Stafford Coastal Cruising Club Beat the Winter Blues Have you ever fancied chartering a Yacht and sailing off into the sunset? Now you can start from Stone! Of course, you could set out at sunrise..either way there is now a new opportunity for you to take the first big step to becoming an RYA-qualified sailing yacht or motor boat skipper. Stafford Coastal Cruising Club (SCCC) has teamed up with Lichfield-based Splash Adventure to provide evening classes for the RYA Day Skipper Theory course at Oulton, Stone. The two-hour classes will start in January 2019 and run through until June with a break for Easter and Bank Holiday. SCCC Members will enjoy a 10% discount on the course fee (normally £380). The course is designed to teach complete beginners a wide range of traditional navigation skills, safety and weather forecasting, as well as the use of GPS chart plotters, VHF radio and other modern electronic aids to navigation and safety which are now a large part of skippering a boat. SCCC’s Commodore, Phil Osman said, “This new partnership between SCCC and Splash Adventure marks an exciting stage in the development of our club, providing new opportunities to study locally for RYA qualifications. We are

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

also planning for the RYA Day Skipper Practical course to be offered in partnership with Splash Adventure so that anyone who has completed the theory course will be fully prepared to charter their own yacht”. Stafford Coastal Cruising Club members have yachts and motor launches located at various bases in the UK and overseas, but you do not have to own a boat to join the club. The club regularly arranges for members to charter yachts and had a group undertaking a Summer Cruise in the Solent in August 2018 aboard the yacht shown above. In addition to training and sailing opportunities the club meets locally every fortnight over the winter months to provide an active programme of talks and events with a maritime theme. Single membership of the club costs £25 pa, family membership £30. Anyone wishing to join the SCC/Splash Adventure Day Skipper course at the reduced rate should contact the club ViceCommodore, Mike Goodwin by emailing goodwin5000@ yahoo.com or phoning 07817 122491. More general enquiries about club membership should be directed via the ‘contact us’ facility on the Club website at www.staffordcoastalcruising.com

HARRISONS SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB JOIN US IN 2019

The New Year is upon us and who knows what’s install for us? One thing I can promise is first class LIVE Music at Harrisons, we will continue to have, for most of our entertainment, bands, and we mean good bands. There will be less Jazz and more Country bands on the Thursday evenings. The Traditional/New Orleans jazz nights will be on the first Thursday of each month. All other Thursday will be our Country Music Club. Come along and just enjoy the music or dance the night away. Visitors are always warmly welcomed. We are a private members club with membership running from 1st January to 31st December each year, so now is a good time to join. This gives you access to all our facilities, Crown Green Bowling, Snooker, Pool, Crib, Open the Box and of course the gaming machines. Also your children can come to annual Christmas party for free, the present they get costs more than the membership. If you are a current member you must renew before 24th February. Application forms available from the club. On the 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month we have Open

Mic Night hosted by the boys from the Light Fantastic Band, 8pm to 11pm and entry is free. Not to forget the Tuesday Night Disco, DJ Ron Dickson plays the music from across 5 decades, a great friendly crowd, looking to meet new people or somewhere to celebrate something this is the place to be. Join the crazy gang. Visitors are always welcome, look at our Facebook page for full details of what’s on. Harrisons opens at 4pm on Mondays to Thursdays. We are open from 1pm on Fridays, it’s a great start to the weekend. Saturday and Sundays we are open all day. We have an excellent Gin bar, come and try our selection and you will be pleasantly surprised at our prices, Cask ales are also available. We hire rooms out for all kinds of private parties and funeral wakes. Just contact the club for further details. Come on give us a visit in 2019, you will love it. We are 200 yards off the A34 in Wharwell Lane Great Wyrley WS6 6EU.

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. January 2019

September

February 2019

Thursday 10th &SMOKEY BAND Thursday 3rd BARBARA ALL THAT JOE JAZZCOUNTRY Friday 1st BUDDY HOLLY TRIBUTE NIGHT. Saturday 12th Saturday 5th JUST TREVORIAN CHARLES Saturday 2nd SCOTTIE entertains Thursday 17th NEW WASHBOARD SYNCOPATORS Sunday 6th OPEN MIC NIGHT Sunday 3rd OPEN MIC NIGHT Saturday 19th WILDWOOD RUN DEVIL Thursday 10th JOHN & RUN BAND Thursday 7th NEW ORLEANS BUMP BAND Thursday 24th KNOXVILLE HIGHWAY COUNTRY BAND COUNTRY FRIENDS Saturday 9th SIMPLY SARAH Saturday 26th TWO D's Saturday 12th STARBURST DUO Thursday 14th ROUTE 44 COUNTRY BAND Thursday 17th MILESWEST COUNTRY DUO Saturday 16th RUN DEVIL RUN BAND Saturday 19th OUTCAST BAND. MIC NIGHT. Thursday 1st CHRIS CARMELLSSunday VINAGE17th JAZZOPEN BAND 50s/60s/70s Thursday 21st DEE & JAMES BOYS Saturday 3rd KIA Sunday 20th OPEN MIKE NIGHT. Thursday 8th JOHN WILDWOODCOUNTRY & COUNTRY FRIENDS Thursday 24th MONTANA RAIN COUNTRY Saturday 23rd MUSTARD BAND. Saturday 10th LUKE BAND Thursday 28th KNOXVILLE HIGHWAY Thursday 15th APEX JAZZ & SWING BAND Saturday 26th 3/6d BAND COUNTRY BAND Saturday 17th SHERIDAN LEIGH Thursday 31st KNOXVILLE HIGHWAY Saturday 1st March OUT OF SHADOWS Thursday 22nd KNOXVILLE HIGHWAY COUNTRY BAND COUNTRY BAND. BAND. Saturday 24th BLUE MUSTANG BAND

October

Thursday 29th

PETER BODDIS COUNTRY BAND

DISCO NIGHT every TRIBUTE NIGHTS Tuesday 9pm For more details on any of our midnight. funplease time upcoming Great tribute nights, facebook page : with visit DJour Ron Dickson. Harrisons Sports Visitors always welcome. Social Club Newand memberships now available from 1/1/19 to 31/12/19.

Dixieland jazz or See our facebook page country music band for full details. onLive every Thursday night. Music Venue. Only £3. 60s/70s/80s BINGO NIGHT Disco Night everyWednesday Tuesday 8.45pm to every start 9pm always welcome. 12Visitors midnight £2 at door Live entertainment Dixieland Jazz or Saturdays countryBingo music band on every Thursday night Only £3 on Wednesday nights.

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 43

Restaurant Review

Indian Cuisine Situated in the countryside in a beautiful barn conversion in Featherstone near Wolverhampton, The Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Repose is a high quality and highly recommended Indian restaurant. With hosts Lee, Misbah, Monseur and Sharjan 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. This year they will be celebrating their 23 year anniversary! Now that is an amazing achievement for an Indian restaurant. Each dish at The Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Repose has its own individual flavour and aroma from the herbs and spices specially prepared by the Master Chef Misbah. Using only the best ingredients with a wonderful combination of subtle flavours and tastes, blending fragrant and exotic spices from the Indian continent This evening my partner and I were delighted to be returning to the award winning, Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Monseur 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.

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

For our starters we decided on Sheek Kebab and Chingri Fry along with poppadums and dips.

For our mains we opted for a Murgh Talibula thick sauce of Coriander, Chilli, Tomatoes & Chicken, lightly spiced & barbecued in the tandoor (£12.95) & Chamura Bengali- An outstanding dish, created by Master Chef Misbah & English Partner Lee, the famous Kings Repose King Prawns & succulent breast of chicken marinated in a special hot sauce (£17.95), to accompany our mains we also ordered pilau rice and a peshwari naan to share. 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. We went on a Tuesday evening and the restaurant was bustling with diners. The service from our waiter was good, lots of attention but not intrusive. 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! 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 famous Kings Repose King Prawns were huge and so tasty. Again these dishes were polished off in no time.

This was another great evening with fantastic food and we will be returning as soon as possible. TripAdvisor gives The Kings Repose a Certificate of Excellence. This award is for restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers.

Open from 5.30pm Midnight (7days a week) also on public Holidays

Like us on Facebook The Kings Repose 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 45

RECIPE

by Mike Whitehurst instagram.com/takefood www.takefood.co.uk

New Year, new you? Who knows what eating healthy really means. There’s so much contradiction in the press about what’s good for you and what’s bad I think the healthiest start you can make is to stop listening to it and make up your own mind. Have a small amount of the obviously naughty things and moderate the good. Too much of a good thing an all that.

Pizza omelette with parma ham and black olives serves 2 INGREDIENTS Frittata Pizza base Large nob of butter 6 medium organic eggs Maldon sea salt Pizza sauce 1 can of plum tomatoes 1 tbsp of tomato paste 2 tsp of balsamic vinegar 1 large garlic clove 1/2 tsp of erythritol 1 small shallot A packet of fresh oregano or basil (save half to garnish your pizza)

Pizza topping Your homemade tomato sauce 2 sheets of parma ham A few spinach and kale leaves 6 cherry tomatoes halved A handful of black olives 1 ball of burrata / mozzarella 50g grated mild cheddar (optional) 150g of mushrooms Half a red onion sliced Grass-fed butter (grass fed means less toxins)

EQUIPMENT Large oven proof frying pan 12” Nutri-bullet or Magi-mix Pan Pizza wheel Thick wooden chopping board Sharp cooks knife Mixing bowl Whisk

METHOD Whizz up the pizza sauce ingredients and simmer in a pan until thick and glossy then allow to cool down. Clean and quarter your mushrooms then add a nob of butter to your frying pan and allow to sizzle before adding mushrooms. Fry until nicely browned and place aside for later then do the same with the onion, spinach and kale and only for a few seconds to coat in the butter. Meanwhile whisk your eggs with a pinch of Maldon sea salt and melt butter in your pan on a medium heat. Once the butter has stopped fizzling around add the eggs and tip the pan around to get a complete covering of the pan and cook until 95% done. Spread the tomato sauce over the omelette and finish with the toppings, tearing the mozzarella over and sprinkle some grated mild cheddar over too if you like. Bake in the oven for about 12 minutes or to

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

Coleslaw White cabbage 1 small carrot half of red onion 1 batch of Keto mayonnaise or a French vinaigrette Green salad A good handful of washed kale and spinach 1 banana shallot or red onion Garlic cloves Rapeseed oil Apple cider vinegar Black pepper Maldon sea salt

your liking and then remove from oven, drop some fresh leaves over and a grind of black pepper then slice and serve. For the coleslaw thinly slice and wash the cabbage, slice the onion and grate the carrot Roast your garlic in the oven and store in rapeseed oil in the fridge until needed. Take the 2 anchovy fillets and crush with the garlic clove and sea salt pinch add a dash of apple cider vinegar and whisk in the oil creating a glossy dressing to pour over the kale. Toss the kale and spinach together with thinly sliced shallot rings and coat in the dressing. Serve with the salads and a glass of sparkling water. For the keto mayonnaise and French vinaigrette recipes please email mike@takefood.co.uk

Christmas Bookings now being taken!

Indian Cuisine

Established since 1996,The Indian Cuisine The Kings Repose have The Kings Repose beenbeen Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Repose isstar a have high quality awarded a 5 award from awarded a 5 star award from rate rate and highly my placerecommended for Kitchen Indian Hygiene. my place for Kitchen Hygiene. restaurant. New Road Misbah the master chef can cook anything Featherstone to suit customers requirements. Misbah the master chef can cook Nr. Wolverhampton anything suit customers requirements. All of thetosuperb mouthwatering dishes being WV10 7NW freshly prepared at the timeRepose of ordering, have using been The Kings All of the the superb mouthwatering dishes 01902 only finest produce. awarded a 5 star award from rate 307846

Indian Cuisine

being freshly prepared at the time of Described byonly many customers ordering, using the finest produce.as

01902 738299 a my place for Kitchen Hygiene.

New Road Eat in or take away culinary Misbah experience a lifetime. the of master chef can cook anything

Described by many customers to suit customers requirements. as a culinary experience of All of the superb mouthwatering dishes being a lifetime.

Featherstone Nr. Wolverhampton WV10 7NW

Nr. Wolverhampton Described WV10 7NW

01902 307846 01902 738299

freshly prepared at the time of ordering, using New Road, Featherstone only the finest produce.

by many customers as a culinary experience of a lifetime.

Eat in or take away

01902 307846 / 01902 738299

Eat in or take awa

Open from 5.30pm - Midnight

(7days a week)

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 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 47

Time to shake off the winter blues. New Year, New you!

Olaplex comes in three forms, as a liquid that gets applied professionally as part of an intense salon treatment, as a mixer for salon hair dyes, and as a take-home cream for use as a weekly mask. When added to a dye, it stops the colourant or bleach from causing any damage to your hair follicle, and applied as a treatment, it works to rebuild the bridges between disulphide bonds (when broken, they become brittle – hence thinning and split ends). This is where some of the confusion around the hair treatment comes in – the Olaplex hair treatment is not a cure-all for dry or damaged hair. But it is a scientifically-developed treatment that works on hair condition from within, as opposed to a conditioner that improves only the superficial condition of damaged tresses.

Trending Colours for 2019 Amber Blonde Olaplex, The hair treatment that everyone is currently talking about! Kim Kardashian is paid a lot to endorse beauty products, so when she recommends something just because she genuinely loves it, you know it’s bound to be good. “When your hair is really damaged, if you sleep in that, it really works. I notice a huge difference,” she said of the product that’s making the rounds in beauty circles, Olaplex.

Occupying its self between honey blonde’s and light copper, its giving a warm spring glow.

Opal Blonde

A subtle mix of rose, ice and peach tomes, give a 4 dimensional colour, creating movement and a chromed affect.

Chocolate Chestnut Burnished Copper

Move over classical winter chocolate brown and enhance for spring with all-over dragged burnished copper high/lowlights.

See our fantastic colour offers on the opposite page. Call today on 01543 500340 to get yourself looking and feeling glamourous for 2019!

48 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

Let us make you feel fantastic LetNew us make you this Year with our feel fantastic with fabulous 2019 offers

our fabulous offers Full Colour, Wednesday

Let us make your hair colour on trend this new year. Will you be an Amber Blonde or a Chocolate Chestnut, with this amazing offer Free cut & blow dry with every colour, saving you £35.00!

Swedish Back Massage

For £15

Offer runs for January and February 2019 Wednesdays only (Normal price £25) Offer

runs*********************************** till the end of October

2015

Introductory Offer

With every CutWaxing & Style you Intimate will receive a free Olaplex 2 treatment, worth £10.00!

20% OFF

Olaplex is a superior hair treatment, all intimate waxing which gives hair a thicker look and feels healthier & stronger. Available for men

& women

Take advantage of this offer and have offer runs until the end of October 2015 a new style for 2019. Follow us

LaMinky Offer runs for January and February 2019

After-care service for our clients with *********************************** hair extensions Pair Packages

Wash, conditioning andscalp blow dry 10%treatment off and indulgent massage with every service at Salon La Mink

From £12

Relax & spoil yourself with an indulgent scalp massage for service's free! Book 4 After-care

and get the 5th FREE

Offer runs for January and February only Offer runs till the end of October 2015

All offers subject to availability.

Please mention this advert at time of booking. Telephone 01543 500 340 www.salonlamink.co.uk

Dawtry Stables, Dawtry Farm, Watling Street Hatherton, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 1SD

New Y ear New Y ear G et ready et ready New NewY You ou

Q&A Q&A Q&A

WHAT IS LIPOFREEZE? WHAT ISIS LIPOFREEZE? WHAT LIPOFREEZE? Cryolipolysis (LipoFreeze or Fat Freezing) is a new phenomenon and proven non-invasive Lipo procedure. Cryolipolysis (LipoFreeze or or Fat Freezing) is is a new phenomenon and proven non-invasive Lipo procedure. Cryolipolysis (LipoFreeze Freezing) a new phenomenon proven non-invasive Lipo procedure. It uses cooling technology that Fat results in localized fat reduction. Theand technology behind Cryolipolysis, was It uses cooling technology that results in localized fat reduction. The technology behind Cryolipolysis, was It uses cooling technology that results in localized fat reduction. The technology behind Cryolipolysis, was designed and developed by dermatologists at Harvard Medical University. Their analysis revealed that fat designed and developed by dermatologists at Harvard Medical University. Their analysis revealed that fatfat designed and developed by dermatologists at Harvard Medical University. Their analysis revealed that cells are more responsive totothe effects ofofcold inincontrast totothe surrounding tissue. Fat cells crystallize cells areare more responsive thethe effects cold contrast thethe surrounding tissue. FatFat cells crystallize cells more responsive to effects of cold in contrast to surrounding tissue. cells crystallize atatdifferent temperatures causing complete cell death. It is specific in breaking down the fat cells whilst different temperatures causing complete cell death. It is specific in breaking down the fat cells whilst at different temperatures causing complete cell death. It is specific in breaking down the fat cells whilst sparing all the other tissue like the skin, muscle mass, and nerve fibers. sparing all the other tissue like the skin, muscle mass, and nerve fibers. sparing all the other tissue like the skin, muscle mass, and nerve fibers.

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Q&A Q&A

WHEN WILL I ISEE RESULTS AND ARE THEY PERMANENT? WHEN WILL SEE RESULTS AND ARE THEY PERMANENT? WHEN WILL I SEE RESULTS AND ARE THEY PERMANENT? This depends on the individual, the fat thickness, and the area treated. Changes happen over aanumber This depends onon thethe individual, thethe fatfat thickness, and thethe area treated. Changes happen over number This depends individual, thickness, and area treated. Changes happen over a number WHAT IS LIPOFREEZE? WHAT IS LIPOFREEZE? WHAT IS LIPOFREEZE? ofofweeks, so some patience is required 12 weeks being the estimated time to see the maximum result, weeks, soso some patience is is required - 12 weeks being thethe estimated time to to see thethe maximum result, of weeks, some patience required - 12 weeks being estimated time see maximum result, Cryolipolysis (LipoFreeze or Fat Freezing) is a new phenomenon and proven no Cryolipolysis (LipoFreeze or Fat Freezing) is a new phenomenon and proven no Cryolipolysis (LipoFreeze or Fat Freezing) is a new phenomenon and proven although some of our clients begin to see changes at around 2-3 weeks. In clinical trials 12 weeks although althoughsome someof ofourourclients clientsbegin beginto tosee seechanges changesat ataround around2-3 2-3weeks. weeks.In Inclinical clinicaltrials trials1212weeks weeks post treatment, 9 out of 10 people saw an undeniable reduction in the treated area when comparing post ofIt 1010people saw an reduction inin the treated when comparing Itout cooling technology that results localized fat reduction. The technology posttreatment, treatment,9 9out ofuses people saw anundeniable undeniable reduction treatedarea area when comparing in Ituses uses cooling technology that results in localized fat reduction. The technolog cooling technology that results inthe localized fat reduction. The technolo measurements and photographs. The fat cells that will are crystallized through the Cryolipolysis procedure measurements and photographs. The fat cells that will are crystallized through the Cryolipolysis procedure measurements and photographs. The fat cells that will are crystallized through the Cryolipolysis procedure designed and developed by dermatologists atatat Harvard Medical University. The designed and developed byby dermatologists Harvard Medical University. The designed and developed dermatologists Harvard Medical University. T are absorbed by the body’s natural processes. Once destroyed the fat cells cannot grow back as long as areare absorbed byby thethe body’s natural processes. Once destroyed thethe fatfat cells cannot grow back asas long asas absorbed body’s natural processes. Once destroyed cells cannot grow back long cells are more responsive to the effects ofof cold ininin contrast to the surrounding cells are more tofat the effects cold contrast toto the surrounding cells are more responsive to the effects of cold contrast the surroundin surroundi you maintain aahealthy lifestyle, providing aresponsive fat reduction ininthe area treated. you maintain healthy lifestyle, providing apermanent permanent fat reduction thethe area treated. you maintain a healthy lifestyle, providing a permanent reduction in area treated.

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ULTRASLIM LIPOFREEZE™ CRYOLIPOLYSIS ULTRASLIM LIPOFREEZE™ CRYOLIPOLYSIS ULTRASLIM LIPOFREEZE™ CRYOLIPOLYSIS ULTRASLIM LIPOFREEZE™ CRYOLIPOLYSIS ULTRASLIM LIPOFREEZE™ CRYOLIPOLYSIS ULTRASLIM LIPOFREEZE™ CRYOLIPOLYSIS Target Excess Fat & Reduce Cellulite Target Excess Fat Reduce Cellulite Target Excess Fat &&Reduce Cellulite DOES WORK? DOES ITIT WORK? DOES IT WORK? • Treat 4 areas simultaneously to reduce time and costs Treat upup 4areas areas simultaneously reduce time and costs ••Treat up toto4to simultaneously totoreduce time and costs YES - There are clinical trials, celebrity reviews, and before &after aft YES There are numerous clinical trials, celebrity reviews, and before YES -- There are numerous clinical trials, celebrity reviews, and before && after • Clinically Proven, FDA Medically Cleared and Effective •Clinically Clinically Proven, FDA Medically Cleared and Effective •numerous Proven, FDA Medically Cleared and Effective •freezing. The latest to banish unwanted fat permanently •freezing. The latest banish unwanted fatof permanently effectiveness iswidely widely known as one the most effective n effectiveness fatfat Ittreatment known as one of the most effective non •freezing. The latest totoknown banish unwanted fat permanently effectiveness ofofof fat Ittreatment isItistreatment widely as one of the most effective non • Undeniable results by up to 40% in only one treatment • Undeniable results by up to 40% in only one treatment • Undeniable results by up to 40% in only one treatment capable losses 59% during clinical trials cells asingle single sessio capable losses upup toto 59% during clinical trials fatfat cells session capable ofofof losses up to 59% during clinical trials ofofof fat cells ininin aasingle session • No Surgery, Scars & Downtime No Surgery, NoNo Scars NoNo Downtime ••No Surgery, No Scars &&No Downtime • The treatment all stars and celebrities have The treatment allthe thethe stars and celebrities have ••The treatment all stars and celebrities have been shouting about HOW DOES WORK? been shouting about HOW DOES ITIT WORK? been shouting about HOW DOES IT WORK?

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housands of people in Northern Ireland are freezing their fat off after Christmas, thaninburning it off at theare gym, after signing a new housands rather of people Northern Ireland freezing their fatup off for after housands of people in Northern Ireland are freezing their fat off after treatment at rather UltraSlim in Belfast uses after extreme coldup to for blast Christmas, thanClinics burning it off at that the gym, signing a new Christmas, rather than burning it off at the gym, after signing up for a new treatment at UltraSlim Clinics in Belfast that uses extreme cold to blast away love handles, muffin tops and spare tyres. treatment at UltraSlim Clinics in Belfast that uses extreme cold to blast away love handles, muffin tops and spare tyres. away love handles, muffin tops and spare tyres. The procedure, which can be done during a lunch hour, is proving The procedure, which be done during a lunch hour, is proving particularly popular withcan men women who not want The procedure, which canand be done during adolunch hour,surgery is proving popular with menaand women who doagainst not want orparticularly liposuction. seeking pre-emptive thesurgery particularlyThose popular with men and womenstrike who do not want surgery or liposuction. Those seeking pre-emptive strike against the festive bulge are hooked up to a machine that uses vacuum or liposuction. Those seeking a pre-emptive strike against the festive bulge are hooked up to a machine thatthe uses vacuum pressure and deep cooling to target fat below skin, festive bulge are hooked up to a machine that uses vacuum pressure andand deep target fathips, below thethe skin, freezing unwanted fatcooling cells intothe thighs, buttocks, pressure deep cooling towaist, target fat below skin, freezing unwanted cells in the waist, hips, thighs, buttocks, abdomen, arms andfat back. freezing unwanted fat cells in the waist, hips, thighs, buttocks, abdomen, arms and back. abdomen, arms and back. Patients can answer emails and telephone calls, read a book or Patients canwhile answer emails telephone calls, read a book or or watch a film having the and Cryolipolysis LipoFreeze treatment. Patients can answer emails and telephone calls, read a book a for film while having Cryolipolysis Itwatch is used small areas ofthe fatthe that refuse to LipoFreeze budge with treatment. diettreatment. and watch a film while having Cryolipolysis LipoFreeze It isItused for for small areas ofwithout fat thatthat refuse to budge withwith dietdiet andand anesthetic orbudge medication. exercise alone and is done is used small areas of fat refuse to exercise alone andand is done without anesthetic or medication. Because the procedure totally non-invasive, clients can exercise alone isisdone without anesthetic or medication. Because thethe procedure is totally non-invasive, clients cancan activities directly after treatments. return to normal Because procedure is totally non-invasive, clients return to normal activities directly treatments. According to normal Hanna McCormac at after return to activities directly after treatments. According to Hanna McCormac at at UltraSlim Clinics, is best for According to itHanna McCormac UltraSlim it isitbest for for those who Clinics, areClinics, moderately UltraSlim is best those who areare moderately those who moderately overweight and overweight and overweight and removes up to 40 removes to removes to 40 per cent ofup fatup in 40 pertargeted cent of fat in in per cent of fat the area, thethe targeted targeted area, with the resultsarea, withwith thethe results results showing gradually showing gradually overshowing a periodgradually of over a period of over a period weeks after the of weeks after thethe weeks after procedure. procedure. procedure.

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36-38 Berry Street 36-38 Berry Street 36-38 Berry Street Wolverhampton Wolverhampton Wolverhampton WV1 1HA WV1 1HA WV1 1HA Tel: 0844 288 7297 Tel: 0844 288 7297 Tel: 0844 288 7297 Email: info@ultraslimclinics.com Email: info@ultraslimclinics.com Email: info@ultraslimclinics.com nnnon-invasive Lipo procedure. non-invasive Lipo procedure. ven non-invasive Lipo procedure.

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New project to help people in Cannock Chase live healthier and happier lives

People living in areas across the Cannock Chase District are set to benefit from a new project to help improve their health and wellbeing, fitness and general quality of life, thanks to a £416,000 National Lottery grant from the Big Lottery Fund. The ‘Chase Up’ project will be led by local communities and will work with local residents, schools and voluntary organisations in Hednesford North, Chadsmoor and the Springfields estate in Rugeley. The project will see a range of creative health and wellbeing opportunities which engage families with social physical and creative activities promoting and using the great outdoors and making the most of green spaces. Work with local voluntary organisations will also take place to encourage and co-ordinate more volunteering opportunities as a way of increasing people’s confidence, developing new skills and improving general wellbeing. The bid was led by Inspiring healthy lifestyles working collaboratively with Staffordshire County Council and Cannock Chase Council. Lisa Shephard, Community Wellbeing Manager for Inspiring healthy lifestyles, said: “This is amazing news. ‘Chase Up!’ is a brilliant initiative that will allow us to develop a range of fun and creative activities inspired by the health and wellbeing benefits that Cannock Chase has woodland has to offer.. We want local services and organisations to get involved too, raising awareness of their services to those who can access their support.” Gill Heath, Cabinet Member for Communities at Staffordshire County Council said: “We’re all very excited about the project which will make a real difference to families in Cannock Chase. “Helping people to improve their own health and wellbeing remains a priority for the County Council and we are looking forward to working with local communities and groups to make this happen.

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

Photo: Project leads Lisa Shephard, Inspiring healthy lifestyles and Angela Schulp, Staffordshire County Council celebrating with the local community and Councillors “As well as a range of exciting activities helping families, the project will also be encouraging more people to consider volunteering which can have a positive impact on people’s lives as well as the wider community.” Councillor Christine Mitchell, Leader for Culture and Sport at Cannock Chase Council, said: “This is very much a community lead project, with local people deciding on the priorities and activities that will take place. This means we’ll see a range of community driven projects from a discovery garden to growing and selling produce, to new offers for families such as cycle safaris, to more challenging activities like mountain biking to engage younger people. “Building on the success of existing local initiatives such as Chase Fit, Grow Up Great and Well Active, the project will also work to bring together even more local groups.” Matt Poole, Head of Regional Funding for the Midlands at the Big Lottery Fund, said: “We’re proud to be funding this project, which will be led by local people to bring communities together, so they can enjoy activities and make the most of local green spaces. It’s fantastic to see money raised by National Lottery players helping to bring this idea to life, boosting health and wellbeing and helping to build relationships in the local community.” The project is expected to run over the next five years and hopes to work with over 40+ community and voluntary groups. Partners already involved include, Springfield’s Residents Association, Redhill Primary School and Friends of the Stadium. These groups will now be at the centre of developing and steering their project ideas, while inviting other groups and local residents to get involved. The Forestry Commission, Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, National Trust, the Museum of Cannock Chase, and local countryside services will also benefit through enhancing their volunteering opportunities. For more information about the ‘Chase Up’ project, contact Lisa Shephard on 07812 332964.

FIRST 10 TO JOIN IN JANUARY 2019 GET FIRST 3 MONTHS AT HALF PRICE Its 2019, time to get on track for the summer and feel great this year

 Complimentary Health Check  Personal Fitness Programmes Available Affordablefitness fitnesswith with Affordable  FREE swimming included with most membership www.sstaffs.gov.uk/leisure South Staffordshire Council’s LeisureCentres Centres www.sstaffs.gov.uk/leisure packages South Staffordshire Council’s Leisure South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres are offering you  FREE inductions and trials available  Use 4 leisure centres for no extra fee the chance to join in January and get your first 3 months at half  Member-only rewards and vouchers price so don't put it off JOIN early and you could around £45  Sign up for Expert hints and tips  Book online facility so you can manage your own Access all areas from as little as 70p per day! Affordable fitness with bookings without queueing

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South Staffordshire Council’s Leisure Centres The leisure centres are open 7 days a week (subject to bank holidays) and welcome everyone including non-members. For more information contact the Membership Officer at your local south Staffordshire leisure centre to discuss what You can pay as you go which allows you to use us as little or as packages will best suit your needs and budget, or pop in and often as you like. However if you are thinking of coming fairly have a look around! regularly, a membership may be your best option!

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Are you Passionate about Mental Health, Wellbeing and Care in the Community?

The Stafford & Cannock League of Hospital Friends (The League) is one of the area’s major charities providing supported housing for vulnerable people. They can demonstrate a direct correlation between hospitals and a public benefit through The League’s charitable efforts in providing supported housing, making a huge positive difference to these individuals. The charity offers a range of specialised supported housing including a “dry house” for individuals requiring a higher level of support and recovery from an addiction and also services to the armed forces community. The League also operates catering outlets and ward support services to three hospitals in the area, Cannock Chase, St Georges and Stafford County Hospital. Situated in Stafford, the Head Office is under the direct control of a Chief Executive and employs professional, qualified, support, financial and admin support staff. The League has close links with leading funding and referral agencies in the local area. Awareness around mental health has increased rapidly in recent years and we are seeing a much greater demand for our services, the care, support and assistance being perceived as of the very highest quality. We are recruiting several new trustees to add to our talented management board and help develop our work. We are looking for qualified people who have the desire and a strong commitment to the value that our services provide to our local community. You will play a vital role in providing leadership, scrutiny and support. Your commitment and effort is required so that we can ensure delivery of our mission statement

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

and assist in the future growth and meet the demand of our services. We are keen to hear from anyone who has the skills and expertise that these roles demand and who would like to work with us to tackle mental health problems across our communities. We are particularly interested in people with a background within the following areas: • Fundraising in the Charity Sector • Mental Health and Wellbeing • Social Housing • People who understand the role that technology is playing in transforming everything that we do Above all we want to talk to people with the credibility, passion and determination to make a massive, yes really, massive difference within our communities. As a Trustee you will be responsible as part of the Board of Trustees for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals. If you wish to be involved please call our Chief Executive, Martin Thornley on 01785 413233. Or email a personal statement (one page should be sufficient) to martin. thornley@sclohf.co.uk setting out your areas of interest and describing why you feel you should join the League’s Management Board. For more information on Stafford & Cannock League of Friends please visit our website www.staffordandcannocklof.org or Stafford & Cannock League of Hospital Friends

Four Seasons: Creating a Home From Home Growing old, needing help to care for ourselves and keeping our independence are concerns we’ll all face at some point in our lives. For many, this can mean moving home to find that level of care and support. At Tudor and Windsor House, we know that moving home is an emotional and challenging time at any age, even more so in later life. Our ‘Home to Home Promise’ helps makes this transition as easy and comforting as possible. Before a resident moves in, we get to know what and who are important to them and their needs. Their favourite foods, activities, hobbies they wish to continue and new things they want to try. So their care is focussed on them from the moment they arrive. Our homes are situated in the communities our residents grew up in. They run activities ensuring residents stay young at heart, keeping in touch with the community they have always been a part of.

Jacky Reed, Managing Director said: “Understanding our residents’ needs is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that quality care is about more than supporting a person’s physical needs but knowing and making sure a person is enjoying experiences that are special to them. “Our Quality of Life Programme allows us to log and act almost immediately upon every comment from residents, relatives, carers and professional visitors about the experience and care we provide. It’s all linked to our quality assurance programme giving you peace of mind.” Visit www.fshc.co.uk for more information.

Come and meet the team that care at Tudor House and Windsor House Be sure to discover how our unique technology is setting a new standard in consistently delivering special experiences for the residents of our care homes here. To find out more please call or pop in for a chat

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Penkridge Runners

encourage members which have enabled them to reach their personal goals.

Penkridge Runners where running becomes a pleasure! We are a local community running group for both beginners & established runners. People start running for a variety of reasons, some run because they want to lose weight, improve their health, compete in races or try something new.

In June, Penkridge Runners were awarded the Ricoh silver “Giving Back Award” for our work in the local community. In October they were awarded “Runners Up” by SASSOT for the best community project in sport 2018. This award is open to any sport in the region which received many high quality nominations. SASSOT, which stands for Sports Across Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent, quoted “we would like to congratulate the project run by Penkridge Runners on their fantastic achievements and dedication to improving opportunities in sport, they have special qualities that set this team apart from others.

Whatever their reason is for running, they will experience many physical, mental and emotional benefits from the sport. One of the biggest benefits of running is that it’s good for your health. Penkridge Runners accept members from the age of 15 with no upper limit, people with disabilities and mental health issues are all welcome. No one is left out. The group have not only become a running club but have also created a new social circuit for many members, forming many new friendships and relationships. Penkridge Runners have a passion for running, supporting, motivating and encouraging people of all ages to enable them to overcome their personal barriers and meet their goals. To their credit they have created an environment which makes everyone feel welcome and supported, regardless of their personal characteristics. They support all members and ensure the training sessions take into account their personal needs to allow them to not only participate, but to enjoy and feel a sense of fulfilment from each session. The caring and supportive nature has enabled members to overcome personal and difficult barriers in their lives. A member said, ‘Penkridge Runners has not only helped me with my running but in many ways...’it’s helped me with my confidence and emotional well-being’. They continually motivate and

Cannock Rotary 10k Road Race 10k Road race raises funds for two worthwhile Charities. The Rotary Club of Cannock annual 10k road race was held on Sunday 18th November with some 200 runners pounded the roads around Cannock chase on a crisp autumn morning to help raise funds for two very worthwhile charities

In January 2019 we will be starting our 2nd Couch 2 5k programme (12 weeks) for beginners and will continue to challenge the more experienced runners to improve their fitness. If you fancy getting your running shoes out and want to get fitter in 2019 then contact us via: email: penkridgerunners@aol.com website: www.penkridgerunners.co.uk or facebook/ penkridgerunners

Trophies were presented to the first three male and female runners also prizes were also awarded to age category winners. The club President David Gardiner thanked everyone who helped organise the day’s events, all the competitors and marshals and Amanda Milling MP for taking time out from her busy schedule to support the event again this year. David also advised that this year’s race has received sponsorship from a number of local organisations totalling in access of £3.500 and thanks to their generosity he believes that the event has raised around £5000.

This year the Cannock club has pledged to help The Midlands Air Ambulance and British Heart Foundation by donating all funds raised from the event equally between these two worthwhile charities. A representative from Midlands Air Ambulance advised that the service is funded by private donations and that it costs around £2000 every time the service is used.

The Rotary Club of Cannock plan to organise the event again next year and details of the date will be announced early next year.

This was the ninth annual event which started and finished at Marquis Drive. The race was started by Cannock Chase MP Amanda Milling who also presented the prizes to the winners. Runners from some 15 running clubs from a far afield as Holmfirth in West Yorkshire took part in this year’s race, along with a number of unattached runners representing many local companies, and this year the race even attracted runners from overseas. This year’s winners were two unattached runners Mathew Woodman in a time of 35 minutes 46 seconds and the winner of the ladies race was Rachel Burchell in a time of 45minutes and 47 seconds.

Photograph-Rotary Club President David Gardiner with the two winners Rachel Burhell & Mathew Woodman and the Race coordinator Rotarian Steve King

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

For more information about The Rotary Club of Cannock visit www.cannockrotary.co.uk or email secretary@cannockrotary. co.uk

NewNew Year, New Legs, NewVEINS You New New You 5 THINGSYear, YOU SHOULD KNOWLegs, ABOUT VARICOSE If you have varicose veins

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grade super glue to seal off the bleeding, eczema, and want great looking uses a medical VenaSeal If veins can are lead left tountreated, they If you have varicose veins veins and as it involves an experienced vein clinician. The goodbrown newsskin is that even phlebitis, discolouration 1. Don’t Worry, You Can Keep Your Legs legsCrossing for the summer, now glue damaged grade super to seal off the can lead to bleeding, eczema, and want great looking injections in the legtreatments this and minimally potentially leg ulcers, which the most advanced are invasive and The common claim that crossing your legs varicose fewer is the time to causes act. Having damaged veins and as it involves phlebitis, brown skin discolouration treatment means that you can take a long time to heal. legs forveins the issummer, now covered by most insurance companies. or spider untrue. Instead, the primary and factors are these assessed treated be quickly back to full activity fewer injections the leg this and potentially leg ulcers,anwhich During a consultation, ultra genetics, age, to weight, pregnancy, history of blood inenjoying has never been easier. is the time act.gender, Having the benefits of healthy treatment means that you can at the Wolverhampton soundtime scan will heal. be performed to take a long to clots, and standing or sitting for extended periods of time. The Vein Clinic Nuffield Hospital, feeling and great looking legs. The Vein Clinic, led by Mr Simon these assessed and treated detect the source of the problem beVascular quickly back tolead full activity Consultant byveins Mr Simon Hobbs, Vascular Surgeon, Varicose are caused by During a Consultant aand consultation, anposition, ultra from the size and has never been easier.Hobbs, Surgeon, treats the vast majority enjoying the benefits of healthy treats theofvast majority of varicose veins walk-in, walk-to malfunction valves in the veins 2. Varicose Veins Are More Than Just a indicate theas required treatment. sound scan will be performed of varicose veinsfeeling as walk-in, legs. out procedures, local anaesthetic, with greatly which causes blood under to pool and The Vein Clinic, ledWhile by Mr Simonveins might lookand great looking Cosmetic Issue. varicose walk-out procedures, under Recognised majorproblem Medical detect the sourcebyofallthe result in painful and unsightly enhanced recovery compared toInsurers. traditional surgical patients, Hobbs, Consultant unpleasant, they canVascular also present serious health risks. local anaesthetic, with greatly For self-paying Varicose veins arebulges caused a surface. and from the size and position, at theby skin’s treatments. During a consultation, an ultra sound enhanced recovery Surgeon, treatsveins the cause vast majority the consultation fee is scan £150 and Many varicose symptoms suchmalfunction ascompared aching to of valves Symptoms include itching, in the veinsaching, indicate the required treatment. will be performed torestless detect the source of theofproblem and traditional treatments. an ultrasound both legs is £99. and itching, veins swelling restless legssurgical at night and the of varicose as and walk-in, swelling, throbbing and which causes blood to pool and from the size and position, indicate the best treatment for The clinic, situated in the legs at night, with both men and sensation of throbbing over the vein, but untreated veins For further information visit walk-out procedures, under Recognised by all major Medical in painful and unsightly you. Wolverhampton Nuffield Hospital, women being affected equally. can lead to brown areas of damaged skin,result eczema, local anaesthetic, with greatly Insurers.www.simonhobbsveins.co.uk For self-paying patients, uses the latest inbulges medical at the skin’s surface. ulcers, bleeding and blood clots. enhanced recovery compared to to diagnose and treat the consultation fee is £150 and technology Symptoms include aching, itching, the veins that are the underlying traditional surgical treatments. an ultrasound of both legs is £99. 3. Men Get Varicose Veins Too swelling, throbbing and restless cause of unsightly and symptomatic

About 80% situated of varicose women, The clinic, in vein the patients legs atbut night, varicose are veins. Mr Hobbs is 42% the with both men and of men will develop varicose veins by theintime theyMidlands reach only surgeon the West Wolverhampton Nuffield Hospital, women being affected equally. currently offering the VenaSeal their 60s manyinofmedical these men suffer in silence. uses the –latest

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technology diagnose and treat treatments popular as 4. ExercisetoPromotes Long-Term Vein such Health Radiofrequency ablation, enabling the veinsactivities that aresuch the as underlying Physical walking, swimming, and stairpeople to have their veins treated cause of improve unsightly and symptomatic climbing circulation. When yourdiscomfort. blood flows with minimal varicose veins. Mryour Hobbs theless likely to experience without restriction, veinsisare the pressure causes veins. only surgeonthat in the Westvaricose Midlands currently offering the VenaSeal Closure system, alongside other Is the Only 5. Professional Treatment popular as Certaintreatments Solutionsuch Compression stockings can Radiofrequency ablation, enabling minimise the effects of varicose veins, but the only way to people to have their veins treated completely rid yourself of them is through treatment from Before Procedure with minimal discomfort.

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CANNOCK CHASE WELCOMES ANNOUNCEMENT AS A VENUE FOR THE BIRMINGHAM 2022 COMMONWEALTH GAMES Cannock Chase Council is delighted an announcement that the Sport and Venue Programme for the Birmingham 2022 Games is confirmed, with Cannock Chase named as the venue for the mountain biking event. Over 11 days, 17 different sports will take place from 17 July – 7 August across Birmingham and the West Midlands with athletes from 71 nations and countries arriving for the Games and millions will be tuning in to watch this momentous sporting event. Councillor George Adamson, Leader of Cannock Chase Council said “I am extremely proud that Cannock Chase will be a venue for mountain biking for the 2022 Commonwealth Games. This will be a chance for us to showcase Cannock Chase, an area of outstanding natural beauty, to the world. It will put Cannock Chase on the map and bring many economic benefits to the District.”

Games will be coming to Cannock Chase. This is the largest sporting and cultural event to come to the region and we are delighted to be part of it. I hope this will not only put the District on the map but also bring great economic benefits to local businesses.” For more information contact Kirsteen Miles - Communications Officer Tel: 01543 464495 Email: kirsteenmiles@cannockchasedc.gov.uk

Tony McGovern, Managing Director for Cannock Chase Council said “I am thrilled that the 2022 Commonwealth

GOLFERS’ MEMORIAL DAY RAISES £1,000 BOOST FOR CHARITY A Wolverhampton Golf Complex helped raise over £1,000 for Cancer Research at a charity memorial golf day. 3 Hammers Golf Complex in Coven, hosted the fundraising day earlier this year in remembrance of John Forrester, a local golfer who sadly passed away after a short illness. Wolverhampton born John was a great friend and supporter of the national award winning Academy at 3 Hammers and “simply loved his golf!”. The golf day was hosted in his memory to bring his family and friends together whilst enjoying the game he loved so much.

65 golfers supported the event which included golf tuition, lunch and an afternoon of playing golf where guests got the chance to play alongside a Golf Professional. A prize presentation and charity auction concluded the day raising £1,000 for the charity. John’s widow Jayne, who organised the event, said “Throughout the entire day there was an amazing atmosphere. Someone said to me at the end of the event ‘Great day guys – John would have had a ball‘ which sums it up for me-somewhat emotional, but a fitting tribute to my husband, who loved his golf and his time at 3 Hammers”. John had lessons at the Complex and Senior Instructor Rory Haigh commented “John was one of my first clients when I joined 3 Hammers Golf Academy. He went on to become one of my best clients and a good friend. During our time working together, he managed to achieve his golfing goals, which was credit to his passion for the game. His passing was a great loss to all at the Academy but his memory will live on”. The day proved such a success that the John Forrester Memorial Golf Day is set to become an annual event with the next golf day planned for 23rd May next year. Photo L-R: Rory Haigh – 3 Hammers Senior Instructor, John Cheetham – 3 Hammers Golf Academy Director, Jayne Forrester, Rob Bluck – 3 Hammers Golf Academy Director. 3 Golf Professionals from 3 Hammers Golf Academy presenting John’s widow Jayne with the £1,000 cheque donation to Cancer Research

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

Sue Starr

ESTABLISHED CLINICAL THERAPIST With a background in corporate coaching and development; Sue Starr has been an established clinical therapist for nearly 8 years and has seen many clients with a range of different issues. Developing strong links with GP’s and schools, Sue has experience with a vast range of personal challenges and symptoms that people have been struggling with, sometimes for years. As an example, a recent report in the Daily Express demonstrated how for one client, hypnotherapy helped for their sugar addiction. The report quotes the NHS as advising “Hypnosis is widely promoted as a treatment for various long-term conditions and for breaking certain habits”and continues “hypnosis does seem to have an effect, though scientists disagree about how it works”.

cases of my clients. It helps them know they are not alone in their feelings and that there are ways to help make positive change”. Through her work with schools, Sue has built a range of tools and techniques specifically to support younger clients from age 6 upwards. These techniques along with a natural affinity, connection and passion for supporting young people, has meant many parents now go to Sue to help improve the welfare of their children. www.suestarr-hypnotherapy.co.uk www.teenageemotionalstresstherapy.co.uk

The range of success stories cannot be denied, Sue adds “testimonials I have received demonstrate that through commitment from the client, genuine life enhancing changes can take place”. Many people believe they are alone in how they feel and behave in certain situations and that there is no help for them. Sue adds “whilst individual circumstances may vary, there is more commonality than differences in many of the

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Top winter weather tips for pets

Remember these tips to keep your pets safe this winter Know your dog’s limits! Some dogs are more susceptible to the cold than others. Shortcoated, thin, elderly, or very young dogs get cold more quickly – so adjust the amount of time they stay outside! If your dog enjoys being outdoors and you will be outside longer than a few minutes, consider outfitting it with a sweater or coat to keep it warm. Hypothermia and frostbite pose major risks to dogs in winter, so remember, if it is too cold for you, it is probably too cold for your dog! Wipe their paws! During winter walks, your dog’s paws can pick up all kinds of chemicals including salt, antifreeze, or de-icers. Be sure to wipe off your dog’s paws when you return from walks to prevent him from licking it off and becoming sick. Purchase pet-safe de-icers for your home for an extra level of safety. And when wiping off your dog’s paws, remember to check for signs of injury, such as cracked or bleeding paws. Give them shelter! Ideally, all pets should live inside. If your pets live outdoors primarily, bring them indoors during subzero temperatures. For the rest of the winter, provide them with a dry, draft-free shelter that is large enough to allow them to sit and lay down comfortably, but small enough to conserve body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches off the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. Turn the shelter so it faces away from the wind and cover the doorway with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic. Also, pets that spend a lot of time outside need more food to replace energy lost from trying to stay warm. Use plastic food and water dishes instead of metal when the temperature is low enough, your pets’ tongue can become stuck to metal.

Keep them on a lead! More pets become lost in the winter than any other season because snow can disguise recognisable scents that would normally help them find their way home. Prevent your pets from becoming lost by keeping dogs on leads and just in case you are separated from your pets, make sure their collars have up-to-date contact information and they are microchipped, which is now a legal requirement. Check your car! Cats often sleep in the wheel wells of cars during the winter months to keep warm. If you start your car and a cat is sleeping on your tyre, it can be severely hurt or even killed by moving engine parts. Prevent injuries by banging loudly on your bonnet or beeping the horn before starting your car. This will wake up the cat and give it a chance to escape before starting the car. Avoid the ice! When walking your dog, be sure to avoid frozen lakes and ponds. Your dog could be seriously hurt or even killed if the ice breaks. Leave them at home! Just as hot cars are dangerous for pets in the summer, cold cars pose a threat as well! Only take your pets in the car if it is necessary, and never leave them unattended. Be seen! Due to daylight savings, many of us are relegated to walking our dogs in the dark. Keep yourself and your dog safe by wearing reflective gear (clothing, lead, collar, etc) and keeping your dog close when walking on the street.

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

Avoid spills! Antifreeze attracts cats and dogs because it is very sweet to taste, but it is extremely poisonous and can cause serious illness or death when ingested. Be sure to clean up any antifreeze that spills in your garage, and keep the bottle somewhere your pets cannot access. Be prepared! Winter brings extreme weather that can cause power outages. Have an emergency plan and make sure they include your pets! Have an emergency kit with enough food, water, and medication to last your pets at least five days. Most likely you will never need it, but if you do, you will be thankful you planned ahead!

E CK E CK AG HE AG HE LD C LDH C H O LTH ONTLTH NT O O EA M EA M H

Senior pet Senior clinics pet clinics This month we are offering free nurse health checks for all dogs and cats over the age of 8 years old to enable This wehealth are offconcerns ering free nurse us tomonth identify early health checks for all dogs and cats over the age of 8 years old to enable us The to identify healthcheck concerns early nurse health includes: Heart check

Diet management

survey Mental health survey TheMobility nurse health check includes: Lumps and Dental exam Heart check Diet management bumps exam Weight check Mobility survey Mental health survey Lumps and bumps exam Weight check If any abnormalities are detected, we can offer you our old age screening package, including blood and urine sample analysis and a consultation with the veterinary surgeon. If any abnormalities are detected, we can offer you our old age screening package, including blood and urine sample analysis Normal price £113. and a consultation with the veterinary surgeon. (following nurse health check) Dental exam

Offer price £69

Normal price £113. BRANCHES ALSO AT:

Offer price £69

Hednesford Animal Hospital – Call 01543 878625 (following nurse health check) 2 Market Square, Hednesford, Cannock WS12 1AF Lockwood Animal Hospital Willenhall: 01902 605 080

Rosewood Animal Hospital Coseley: 01902 671 777

Blackheath Veterinary Centre Blackheath: 0121 559 1599

Waterfront Veterinary Centre Brierley Hill: 01384 482 121

St George’s Veterinary Surgery Telford: 01952 610 500

Burton Animal Hospital Burton-on-Trent: 01283 510 363

Rosewood Animal Hospital Coseley: 01902 671 777

Blackheath Veterinary Centre Blackheath: 0121 559 1599

Waterfront Veterinary Centre Brierley Hill: 01384 482 121

St George’s Veterinary Surgery Telford: 01952 610 500

Burton Animal Hospital Burton-on-Trent: 01283 510 363

BRANCHES ALSO AT: 1. Old Age Health Chech Aug '16.indd 5

Lockwood Animal Hospital Willenhall: 01902 605 080

16/08/2016 17:04

BY ROB TAYLOR

Ford Focus

A UK BEST SELLER

An all-new Ford Focus is a big deal. Not because it’s the most exciting vehicle on the market. Not because it’s the most interesting vehicle on the market, but because the Focus is a car that a lot of people will actually drive. Just look at how many have been sold to date: it’s always been in the top five of the UK’s best-selling car charts since it was launched some 20 years ago. During that time Ford has managed to move nearly 2 million here, and around16 million globally. In fact, if I think too hard and long about it, it makes me feel really old, so I’ll stop and get into what the new mark IV has to offer us. Its face is certainly familiar: the Focus is simple and wears a larger, yet recognisably proud Ford grille between the horizontally-biased headlights, which, like the rear lights, are placed as far into the corners as possible to enhance its masculine stance. It’s available in five-door and estate body styles and not only is it still fun to drive and pleasantly practical, it offers you enormous choice – there’s everything from frugal-yet-fun turbocharged petrol engines to big, dependable diesels. Specification options run from no-frills basics to ‘everything included’ Taste the Difference ranges. No wonder, then, 62

that it’s a best-seller in Britain. The Focus range starts at Style and is just £17,930 – more than £2,000 below the outgoing model. There are seven variants in a range that tops out at Vignale, which is priced at £25,450. But whatever you choose to spend the reality is that you’ll get an outstanding combination of comfort, safety and driver assistance technologies. Focus Style comes as standard with 16in alloy wheels, air conditioning, DAB digital radio with Bluetooth and Emergency Assist, an electronic parking brake, autonomous emergency braking, tyre pressure monitoring, Hill Start Assist and Lane-Keeping Aid. Zetec models add highlights such as Ford’s acclaimed SYNC3 DAB Radio with a 6.5” touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto functionality, and cruise control. This one is always a popular choice. For sporty drivers, the ST-Line offers unique body styling, including unique upper and lower grille, rear spoiler and polished twin tailpipes, but I’m always happiest with the Focus at its most modest price because it allows you to focus in on all the best bits that some of the additional trappings detract from. After all, this all-new Focus was designed from a clean sheet of paper, and ushers in “a new era for technology, comfort, space and driving

STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | JANUARY 2019

experience for Europe’s mid-size car customers”, according to Ford. Seems a shame to clutter it up with too many options. The Focus also introduces the FordPass Connect embedded modem for connectivity on the move, a wireless charging pad, and 8” touchscreen. In fact the interior offers more space than in its previous incarnation and boasts high quality materials and craftsmanship. There’s a wealth of intuitive, driver assistance technologies available too including: Speed Sign Recognition and Lane-Centring for effortlessly negotiating stop-start traffic. Clever stuff, but the Focus has always been famously a drivers’ car, so how it handles the pot-marked B-roads of Britain matters to many. Fit it with the sprightly yet economical 1 litre Ecoboost turbocharged unit and you’ll find the Ford at its best: frisky enough to get to 60 mph in 10 seconds and revvy enough to excite on the drive home from work, this engine really fits its hosts’ personality. It is a truly practical, personable and perfectly poised car that’s sure to remain deeply entrenched in this nation’s affections.

Jaguar E-Pace

BY ROB TAYLOR

A HANDSOME BEAST

01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 63

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rney’? What are Lasting Powers of Attorney? need ttothem? ofI A er do owwhy g PAnd

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problem arises then we know who will be looking after our in which you decide who will make your decision making. then someone, generally, possibly for years, for making decisions the event you losing occur, capacity. After ainWill, oneofof your decisions for you. but notyour always a family member You make those decisions and you chose the most important Goodwills Legal Services Ltd provides a home visit service attorneys while you are still in goodmust mental make application to the which makes the process comfortable for our clients. Thevery answer is very simple, have documents that you all chose would health. The attorneys typically Court of Protection for to be Wills, Trusts and Lasting Powers of Attorney. We them can prepare your LPAs prepared now, while be your spouse, your children, or close family.by that court to make authorised adults should have you can clearly make your own When giving instructions for LPAs to your local Goodwills

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court, The Office of Public Guardian can chose who will be Forbring further These documents, ‘LPAs’, enable thousands of poundsYour in fees. your attorneys. local Consultant will the information, prepared documents advice and back to you for the signing process.guidance call Mike you to personally choose who will be This is athis very painful process Each year thousands of families have to go through very Humpherson who is the local authorised to make your decisions memberTo tomake have to difficult process because the person who hasfor losta family capacity the LPAs legallySenior functional our legal team then take Consultant representing should you loose mental capacity. did not have LPAs prepared before the problem arose. on your behalf. the LPAs through the process of registration with the Office of undertake Goodwills Legal Services Ltd. Public Guardian. Do not think loss of mental capacity This process through the court can take months and And, you may end up with someone A home visit service is provided to is only a problem for the very elderly involve very significant costs. And of course the may registered and legally LPAs can for thenyour be used youcourt would not haveThe chosen takefunctional your instructions Wills perhaps with dementia. It is not an choose someone who you would not have wanted to make immediately, if needed, or can be placed into safe storage yourself having the legal authority and Lasting Powers of Attorney. age related problem. Anyone can decisions for you. until perhaps needed later in life. to make your decisions for you. loose capacity at any age. Sadly all it Contact details: There two LPAs, as one dealsas with Property and Financial Please contact your local Goodwills Estate Planning takes are is something simple a fall Even worst is the case where Mike Humpherson decisions, and one with Health Consultant, Mike Humpherson, for further information. or a car crash, or a deals stroke. And this and Welfare decisions. the court may have to choosedetails a T: 0845 678 7010 Contact are: can happen to anyone at any age. professional as attorney, M: 07771 992717 You can chose different people to make decisions for you person in M: 07771 992717 T: 0845 678 7010 each if that works best for you. E: mikejh@globalnet.co.uk who will then be charging E: mikejh@globalnet.co.uk If youarea do not have the documents www.goodwillsmidlands.co.uk www.goodwills.net W: www.goodwillsmidlands.co.uk in place and the problem does your estate significant fees,

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Tailor made open events for a tailor made education

Parents considering an independent education for children from Year 3 to Year 6 need to add Wolverhampton Grammar School’s Junior School Open Day, Saturday 26th January, 10am-1.30pm to their diary.

and extra-curricular opportunities that other junior schools cannot match. A Breakfast and Late Club work alongside our usual curriculum which also includes the opportunity to study languages, team building, presentation and debating skills.

The Junior School years mark a crucial period in a child’s development. During this time a child establishes the foundations for future learning; they begin to form firm friendships and become more independent and curious about the world around them. These are also years of fun and enjoyment as a child develops strengths and new interests. Wolverhampton Grammar Junior School provides wrap around care for your child. Our Junior School is sited at the heart of Wolverhampton Grammar School, providing safe, unique access to facilities, sport opportunities and teaching expertise. The key focus on developing the whole child enables us to prepare them for their transition to Senior School. Most of all, our Junior School is a happy place, full of fun and designed to bring out the best in your child. Light, bright classrooms, small class sizes and expert teachers provide your child with access to a range of academic subjects

“What is so unique about the Junior School? Quite simply, it is a caring family environment, situated right at the very heart of Wolverhampton Grammar School. It is the best place for your child to unearth new talent and discover skills that they didn’t know they had”. Dan Peters, Head of Junior School Demand for Junior School places at the city’s leading independent school is high with numbers increasing year on year. The school’s Compton Road campus, located to the west of the City also provides school bus and coach routes attracting families from Bridgnorth, Penkridge, Stourbridge, Telford and Walsall. To register your interest, please contact Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar by email: jam@wgs-sch.net or tel: (01902) 422939. Alternatively, visit the website www.wgs.org.uk for more details.

Independent Day School for Boys and Girls Junior School ages 7-11 Senior School ages 11-16 Sixth Form ages 16-18

YEAR 7 ENTRANCE TEST Saturday 12th January 2019

JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN DAY Saturday 26th January 2019, 10am - 1.30pm

JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN EVENING Wednesday 27th March, 5pm - 7pm For information about how to register for our entrance test or to learn more about our open events please contact Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar telephone 01902 422939, email jam@wgs-sch.net or register online www.wgs.org.uk JUDGED “EXCELLENT” IN ALL AREAS BY THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS INSPECTORATE

TES INDEPENDENT SCHOOL AWARD WINNERS 2018

01902 421326

www.wgs.org.uk Wolverhampton Grammar School Compton Road Wolverhampton WV3 9RB

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