Delivered to: Stafford, Penkridge, Acton Trussell, Teddesley Park, Little Haywood, Great Haywood, Hixon, Western Downs, Parkside, Haughton, Gnosall, Littleworth, Rowley Park, Derrington, Castlefields
December 2015/January 2016
Great Prizes to be won inside this issue: Win tickets for Peter Pan at The Grand Theatre Win tickets to see Totally Tina at Crewe Lyceum
Local Magazine delivered to 20,000 selected Homes and Businesses*
RELAXING SPACE
A Message From the Editor Hello readers,
Welcome to the December edition of the Staffordshire Outlook magazine. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! I hope you are all ready for the festive season. We have lots of festive advertisers inside if you’re looking for real Christmas trees, places to eat, pampering for your Christmas party it is all inside this issue. The winners from the October/November 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 this year’s pantomime, Peter Pan at The Grand Theatre and tickets for Totally Tina at Crewe Lyceum. 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
Hope you all have a very merry Christmas and a happy new year!
Enjoy your read with a mulled wine & mince pie..
Contents Congratulations to: Winners of tickets for Last Night a DJ saved my life at the Grand Theatre Vivienne Le Maistre, Gnosall Rebecca Banks, Haughton Sian Williamson, Penkridge Winners of a pair of tickets to The Festive Gift Fair
Maxine Evans - Stafford, Amanda Salt - Hixon Colette Mackie - Rowley, Davina Thomson - Little Haywood Christine Clarke - Penkridge
Staffordshire Outlook Magazine Ltd Tel: 01952 321334 Staffordshire Outlook Magazine is published by Staffordshire Outlook Magazine Limited www.staffordshireoutlook.co.uk Advertising enquiries Sharon Caldwell - Sales Director Email: sharon@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk Editorial/What’s on information Mal Caldwell - Editor Email: info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk Magazine design: Kate Dalgliesh - Graphic Designer
Spinal Surgeons join Nuffield Wolverhampton 4 Neuxgen 6 Sing for your heart 8 Win tickets for Peter Pan 10 Winter Wonderland at the Guildhall 12 Warmup this winter with underfloor heating 14 Tech Aluminium Systems Ltd 16 DRF Kitchens & Bedrooms 22 Puzzles 24 Winter Treats in the Perennial Garden 26 Real Christmas Trees at Standeford Garden 27 St Marys Church 28 Composite Doors at Winter Warmth 29 Tips for your furry friend 30 The Dog Groomer 32 Adopt an appliance 34 Eating out over the Festive Season 36 Recipe of the month 38/39 Tracy Mason Travel 40/41 Aristocats 42 Have a glamourous Christmas at La Minky 44 Dora Leighton 48 Skin Sense 49 Wolverhampton Hospice increases support 50 Win tickets for Totally Tina 52 Cedar House Clinic 53 SI Christmas 54 The Chase CACI Clinic 56 Stafford Community Hub receives Royal approval 58 Goodwills 59 Cannock Friends of St Giles 60 Penn Singers 60 Swansway on Christmas Patrol 62 Nobody’s Fuel by Rob Taylor 63 Yearning for Yaris by Rob Taylor 64 Index of advertisers 66 Puzzle Solutions 66
Email: design@etakcreative.co.uk We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Staffordshire Outlook magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert or editorial. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Staffordshire Outlook magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication maybe reproduced, stored in any retrieval system of transmitted in any form – electronic, mechanical, photo copying or otherwise – without the prior consent of Staffordshire Outlook magazine.*total distribution 20,000 copies across two months.
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
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Spinal Surgeons Join Nuffield Wolverhampton WITH NUFFIELD YOU CAN BE SURE YOU ARE IN THE BEST POSSIBLE HANDS
g it Right! in tt e G ry e rg u S c ti e Cosm
The entrance to the private hospital in the Tettenhall area of Wolverhampton
Cosmetic treatments, carried out well, can add enormously to your quality of life; not only adding to physical well-being but improving your psyche and adding to personal confidence. Recent years have seen an explosion in demand for and acceptance of cosmetic procedures, both surgical and nonsurgical. We live in a young world where people are living longer and remaining active to a much older age. Feeling fitter, more and more individuals want to keep looking fresh to make sure they enjoy life, at ease with the way they look. These are procedures of choice, carried out to change or improve appearance. However with treatments of choice it is even more important that proper counselling takes place so that treatments are based on the needs of the individual, making sure that your aspirations can be matched by surgical interventions, and that you are fully informed of the limitations and possible complications that they may carry.
Consultant spinal Mr Mushtaque Proper consultation, withsurgeons examination, is vital to achieve good results andand happyMr outcomes. This shouldStarantzis always be with the Ishaque Konstantinos have surgeon andjoined you should rushed into decisions recently thenever teambeat Nuffield Healthand do not proceed with treatment unless you are sure it is right for you. Wolverhampton Hospital to expand the spinal Consultants carrying out surgery must be on the Specialist disorders service. Treating a range of spinal Register of the General Medical Council. Our aesthetic disorders, including slipped disc, sciatica, neck surgeons are Members of the British Association of Aesthetic (BAAPS). You can view their and armPlastic painSurgeons through to degenerative disc details on the websitethe (www.baaps.org.uk). disease andBAAPS scoliosis, spinal service extends It is important to find a properly trained Consultant, from advice and joint injections through to practicing in the right environment. Procedures should be keyhole and major open surgery to reconstruct to your benefit, to improve the quality of your life. They the spine. can be life changing and must be properly considered. With Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital you Born London, MrinIshaque from the can beinsure you are the best qualified possible hands. OurUniversity of undertook a two year aimCambridge is to provideina1991, different kind of treatment forcombined orthopaedic andpatients neurosurgical complex reconstructive cosmetic surgery - the Nuffield Treatment. This means we canin make the following Spinal Fellowship Canada, becamepromises: a consultant in 2008 and now aPromise fulltime private consultant spinal surgeon. OurisPrice Our prices will always be totally transparent and when you In to inclusive his clinical work in price managing back and arm areaddition quoted an procedure it will be inclusive of pain and–sciatica, Mr Mushtaque is involved in all costs with no hidden surprises.Ishaque This inclusive price will medical education and isfee, an anaesthetist honorary lecturer at bothfees, the include your consultation fees, hospital any overnight stays, medication take homeCity drugs. It also University of Birmingham and and Birmingham University. includes all your appointments after-care.from He performs thefollow-up full spectrum of spinaland procedures If you find an alternative private hospital in yourto local offering minimally invasive spinal injections through fullarea spinal a better price for and the same surgical intervention, sold with the decompression reconstruction of both cervical and same service lumbar spine.conditions, we will lower our price to equal it.*
As a Nuffield Health patient, subject to the clinical needs related to your procedure, there are no time limits on your aftercare.** We offer a range of cosmetic surgery procedures including:
Surgical Procedures Born and educated in Athens, Mr Starantzis has worked in • Breast Augmentation • Uplift theBreast UK since 2004. He started his training in Trauma and • Breast Reduction Orthopaedics in Cambridge and then he moved to London. • Tuck HeTummy completed his Spine Surgery training with fellowships in • Liposuction Athens, Nottingham and Bristol just before his appointment • Facelift as Neck a substantive • Lift Consultant Spine Surgeon at the University • Eyelid of Surgery Hospitals North Midlands. • Rhinoplasty • (ear MrOtoplasty Ishaque and Mrcorrection) Starantzis join the existing Nuffield • Gynaecomastia (Male breast reduction) Health consultant spinal surgeons Mr Anthony Marino and Non-Surgical Mr Gabriel Alo. Procedures • Injections for wrinkles For further information or to bookEvents an appointment with one Complimentary Cosmetic of our consultant spinal surgeons please call us on 01902 Here at the Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital we run 212958. regular complimentary cosmetic open events once a month. These events give you the opportunity to meet one of our consultants a one-to-one that lasts minutes Nuffield for Health - Getadvice back chat to the Lifeten you Love! and gives you the chance to ask any questions you have regarding the specific treatment you are thinking about. For more information or to book a complimentary advice chat please contact us on 01902 275211.
Our Treatment Promise Also Fellowship trained, Mr Konstantinos Starantzis’s work We promise to guide and support you through every encompasses both cervical and lumbar stage of your treatment at Nuffield Health.spine to address deformities, tumours and degenerative and traumatic You will be looked after throughout by your Consultant. conditions the our spine. He is especially interested in At the sameoftime, matron will ensure you receive the minimally invasive and keyhole surgery where appropriate. highest standard of compassionate and professional care. He is active in the academic world, with a number of Our Follow Up Promise publications and is a reviewer of some prestigious spinal Our relationship with you doesn’t end when journals. you walk out of one of our hospitals. 4
Private consultant spinal surgeon, Consultant spinal surgeon, Mr Darren Lewis, Consultant MrPlastic, Mushtaque Ishaque& MrMr Konstantinos Starantzis Reconstructive Naiem Moiemen, Aesthetic Surgeon
Consultant Plastic Surgeon
*Not including private patient units at NHS Hospitals. Local are defined as within 15 miles of the Nuffield Health hospital. We will match against written quotes only. Promise is valid for patients paying for themselves. **where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment| or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is STAFFORDSHIRE DECEMBER 2015for the manufacturers official lifetime of that prosthesis. “Clinically required” indicates used as part of yourOUTLOOK treatment this is guaranteed where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention.
It’s time to stand up to spinal pain. NUFFIELD HEALTH WOLVERHAMPTON HOSPITAL At Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital, we want to make sure you are living the life you love. That’s why we offer rapid access to expert assessment, diagnosis and treatment of spinal pain. Whether you’re experiencing back or neck discomfort, we can help at a time and date to suit you.
Get back to the life you love.
Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 8LE
01902 212 958 nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/wolverhampton
Hospitals
+ Health Checks + Physio + Gyms
NHOD-15-327(00733) Wolverhampton Spinal Ad 218x140mm.indd 1
17/09/2015 10:44
Neuxgen RELIABLE, HONEST AND PROFESSIONAL BUILDING COMPANY
Neuxgen are a reliable, honest and professional building company established in Staffordshire for over 8 years. We specialise in complete property refurbishments and house extensions. Our job is to take every project from idea to completion, we provide a full service to any homeowner willing to improve their home. With our new show room in Mill Street, Cannock pay us a visit to discuss your next building project. Neuxgen takes great pride in its general and house building work and approach to customer care. We will take the time to listen to your exact needs and offer a tailor-made solution. We will oversee your house building, refurbishment and renovation from start to finish, providing you with a dedicated, bespoke and caring approach to meet your requirements and expectations. With so many companies to choose from, making the right partnership for your home improvement or renovation project is a hard and very important decision to make. Every Neuxgen house extension or building conversion is project managed personally by owner and director Dean Gill. We offer a full one stop service and we employ a team of professional joiners, builders, plumbers, electricians, plasterers and tradesmen for every project. We take care of all of the planning, building regulations, planning applications so there is no need to use a third party. We specialise in refurbishing homes which require close consultation with the client and a tailored approach to the high-end building and design techniques which we are proud to offer, and are able to bring the client’s dreams to reality and to ensure that all goals are met and expectations fulfilled. We make sure all our quotes are as detailed as possible and include all the predictable jobs. No extras at the end, so the project is strictly according to the quote specification.
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STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
Once we start, our tradesmen are on site everyday so there are no delays from our side. We are in close contact with you at all times. From start to finish we make sure all our work conforms to current regulations and meets your expectations. The project manager visits site on a regular basis, checking works in progress. Neuxgen promise to complete your extension or renovation project swiftly, professionally and to budget. Working directly with our clients has ensured that our projects have run smoothly, this is one of our strengths and the main ingredient to our success in this competitive industry. We have built our business on client recommendations and word of mouth.
See below a few client testimonials: I have had problems with traders disappearing after doing work and not looking after me later. But Neuxgen have been responsive throughout. When I had to call them out for a fault they got it sorted in no time. I have recommended them to all my family and friends. I am impressed.
Mr Graham, Stafford Nothing was too much trouble... They finished the job quicker than I expected and they cleared up after themselves.
Mr Wint, Cannock They gave me the best overall package out of 5 other quotes. They even came at night when I was home to discuss my options
Mr Holmes, Birmingham Neuxgen Ltd Bank House, Mill Street, Cannock WS11 0DL 01543 500071 www.neuxgen.com
• Full one stop service, directly employed tradesmen • Architectural service available • Planning and building regulations
Come and visit our new showroom, which has been renovated by our own tradesmen. Open Monday to Saturday 10am-5pm
• All sizes of house extensions undertaken • Project managed by Company Director • Garage Conversions • Kitchen Extensions • Orangeries • Conservatories • Porches • Bathroom Installations
Neuxgen Ltd Bank House 8 Mill Street Cannock WS11 0DL
• Kitchen Installations
Tel: 01543 500 071 info@neuxgen.co.uk
www.neuxgen.com Home visits available upon request
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
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Heart Research UK
SING FOR YOUR HEART CAMPAIGN THIS CHRISTMAS
Heart Research UK are calling for choirs, schools, bands, singers and pubs up and down the country to support their Sing For Your Heart campaign this winter. Research has shown that singing is good for the heart and this is why Heart Research UK have chosen this as a fun idea for people to take on during the festive period and to raise money for the great work that they do. So far this year, they have gained support from an array of celebrities such as Lorraine Kelly, Brian McFadden and X Factor finalists Chloe Jasmine and Stevie Ritchie who’ll all be raising money from their own singing events in December. If you’re a choir, you could book a venue or sing in your local supermarket and donate a percentage of the tickets sales or pass around a collection bucket to raise money to Heart Research UK. If you’re a school you could turn your annual nativity play into a Sing for your Heart event and ask parents to make a donation or sell tickets. If you’re an individual who loves singing or in a band, why not put on a gig and donate a percentage of the proceeds. Or if you work at a pub or you’re their local punter, why not advertise to host a sing-a-long and get everyone in your local area together during Christmas week to sing festive songs and pass round a collection bucket. You could host it in the pub, in the car park all wrapped up or on the village green. 8
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
They don’t mind how you organise it or how you raise the money – the choice is yours. They just want everyone singing for their hearts this Christmas and raising money to help find a cure for heart disease. It’s so easy to get involved, all you need to do is contact Heart Research UK for your FREE Sing For Your Heart kit, set a date and venue to host your Sing, advertise for an audience with posters in the pack, nominate someone to go round with a collection bucket at the event and then send in the money to them. You can sign up online at www.heartresearch.org.uk/sfyh or call 0113 234 7474 or email community@heartresearch.org.uk And don’t forget – all money raised locally is spent locally on helping hearts near you.
Cloudy2Clear Windows – Service With A Smile! ADVERTISEMENT
It’s been a crazy few months for Cloudy2Clear Windows. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has grown rapidly as homeowners take advantage of their services. Managing Director Brian Stanley feels that it’s all about service. ‘Our product is simple. If your double glazing is misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. But it’s not
just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done. We make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.’ Cloudy2Clear service the Cannock
and Stafford areas and Brian is finding that his approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends
and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Brian a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
STEAMED UP DOUBLE GLAZING? Don’t replace the Frames... just the Panes!
Broken or Damaged Windows? Faulty Hinges, Handles or Locks? Want The Latest Energy Saving Glass? All Glazing Backed By Our 5 Year Manufacturers Guarantee Priority Freephone
0800 61 21118 www.cloudy2clear.com ...we make saving money perfectly clear... 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
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Competition
Two lucky winners can each win a Family Ticket to see PETER PAN on Tuesday 15th December at 7.15pm at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. Join comedy legends Paul and Barry, the Chuckle Brothers on a swashbuckling adventure to Neverland with Peter Pan, Wendy and the Lost Boys as they fight against a team of pirates and the dastardly Captain Hook, played by Eastenders bad boy - Nasty Nick,
John Altman!
Wolverhampton Grand Theatre officially launched their swashbuckling pantomime, PETER PAN. Produced by Qdos Entertainment, the world’s biggest pantomime producer, this year’s Christmas show will star The Chuckle Brothers as Paul & Barry Smee, John Altman as Captain Hook, and also flying in for the launch was Ross Carpenter in the role of Peter Pan. Michael Harrison, managing director of Qdos Entertainment and the producer of PETER PAN recently co-produced with Cameron Mackintosh the UK tour of Barnum, starring Brian Conley, and The Bodyguard, starring Alexandra Burke, both of which enjoyed hugely-successful runs at the Grand Theatre earlier this year. Paul and Barry Elliott, the real life brothers better known to millions as The Chuckle Brothers, have worked in almost every area of entertainment and despite over 50 years in show business their appearance at the Grand Theatre this Christmas marks the first time the comedy duo have ever performed in a production of PETER PAN! John Altman is perhaps best known for playing ‘Nasty’ Nick Cotton in the popular BBC soap opera EastEnders. He was among the show’s original cast members in 1985 and recently reappeared in 2014 after a five-year absence, but his character was killed off earlier this year as part of the special 30th anniversary episode. John’s previous appearances at the Grand Theatre include the role of Billy Flynn in the 2002 UK tour of the West-End smash-hit Chicago.
PETER PAN opens at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre on Saturday 12 December 2015 until Sunday 24 January 2016.
Call the Box Office on 01902 42 92 12 or visit www.grandtheatre.co.uk 10 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
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 Thursday 10th December 2015 Winners will be notified by telephone. What is the Chuckle Brothers’ famous catchphrase? A) “Just like that.” B) “To me, to you.” C) “Nice to see you, to see you nice.” D) “It’s a puppet!” Competition Terms and Conditions Winners to collect tickets from the box office on the night of the show. The family tickets are for 4 people. Tickets cannot be exchanged, and no cash alternative prize nights available. Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity
WINTER WONDERLAND AT THE GUILDHALL THIS YEAR CHRISTMAS SING-ALONG AND FREE CUPCAKES
Visitors to Stafford’s biggest shopping attraction will be treated to some Christmas fun and the opportunity to receive a free cupcake treat whilst they do their Christmas Shopping. On Saturday 12th December, shoppers at the Guildhall Shopping Centre will be invited to take part in a festive ‘treasure hunt’ to find a number of snowmen hidden in the shops. If shoppers correctly identify the number of snowmen and answer a simple question, they will be rewarded with a deliciously free cupcake and a chance to win one of the cuddly snowmen. A further 250 cupcakes will be given away on Saturday 19th December when a free gift wrapping service will be available to help take the stress out of Christmas. Any purchases made in the Guildhall on 19th December will be beautifully gift wrapped by our friendly staff – and of course anybody taking advantage of this service will receive a free cupcake. Alongside the tasty treat, there will also be the chance to participate in a Christmas Sing-Along when professional singer Sammy Hayes will lead the way with performances of ‘Snowmen’ songs and other festive favourites. And overseeing it all, Santa will be in his free grotto – the only free-to-enter grotto in Stafford – every weekend from November 21st until the big day (plus December 21st, 22nd and 23rd). 1 12
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER DECEMBER2015 2015
Guildhall Shopping Centre Marketing Manager Anne Graham said: “Our customers really enjoyed our free cupcake giveaway in 2014 and we are pleased to be able to bring it back to the Guildhall this year. We can’t think of a better way to thank our customers for their loyalty and to give them a special festive treat”.
Steve Moran is an Associate Director at DTZ which manages the Guildhall Shopping Centre. He said: “We want to thank our customers for shopping at the Guildhall through the challenging times that we are all experiencing in business and in the retail environment. “Our Festive Cupcake Giveaways on the two Saturdays before Christmas is a small token of our appreciation.”
CALL FOR CALL FOR A BROCHURE A BROCHURE
01543 505539 T: T: 01543 505539
Ralvern Upholstery Ralvern Upholstery Unit 19, Martindale, Hawks Green Unit 19, Martindale, Hawks Green Cannock, Staffs WS11 Cannock, Staffs WS11 7XN7XN E: sales@ralvernupholstery.co.uk E: sales@ralvernupholstery.co.uk
www.ralvernupholstery.co.uk www.ralvernupholstery.co.uk
Warmup this winter with Underfloor Heating from Tile Choice
Many home owners are now opting to have underfloor heating systems installed within their home for the warm gentle heat it offers and the ease at which it can be installed. Advancements in technology now mean that many of these heating systems are easy to install and provide the home owner with an alternative heat source which can be installed under many floor bases. Warmup is the leading and best-selling manufacturer of electrical underfloor heating systems. Their range of underfloor heating systems offers the home owner affordable and excellent long term product satisfaction.
tile heating installation errors for complete peace-of-mind! Tile Choice are now offering lower prices with 40% off all Warmup Underfloor heating products, Britain’s best-selling electrical underfloor heating system the first company to offer a lifetime guarantee on undertile heating.
Underfloor heating spreads warmth over the entire floor area, resulting in up to half the heat being emitted as low-temperature radiant heat. Warming a large area at a low temperature (21-25 C / 70-77 F) produces the most comfortable and efficient form of heating possible by reducing the heat loss from our bodies without overheating the surrounding air.
Available exclusively from Warmup, the 3iE is the world’s first fully interactive, touch technology, energy monitor thermostat. Featuring advanced energy monitoring, the Warmup 3iE featuring Active Energy Management which can save you up to 10% on your energy bills and view actual graphs of your recorded energy consumption against costs.
The Worlds Best-Selling Electric Underfloor Heating Brand - Warmup. Used either as primary heating or simply as floor heat to keep the chill off Underfloor Heating from Warmup is inexpensive, easy to install and comes with a Lifetime Warranty. Our SafetyNet Guarantee covers under
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STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
Electric heating is no longer an expensive luxury it is built for everyone to enjoy. All you have to do is measure your room and pick which heating kit you require and choose from the range of thermostats that we offer. This very simple to install and use with a self adhesive mesh makes it very easy to lay and the single end connection means you only have to run one cable to the thermostat. With your selected tiles laid you can enjoy the warmth of underfloor heating for many years to come.
50% Winter Sale Finance Available
Beautifully crafted bespoke furniture
Freephone : 0800 316 1078 Visit our website: chasewood-furniture.co.uk Visit our online shop: furniture-for-bedrooms.co.uk 124 Anglesey Business Park, Littleworth Road, Hednesford WS12 1NR
10 Year Guarantee Call for a Free Design Visit Call for a Free Brochure Subject to status
01952 321334 WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 15 Showroom open to the public 6 days a week. Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.| Saturday 10am - 3pm
Bring the outside into your home with Tech Aluminium Systems Ltd UPDATE YOUR PROPERTY AND INJECT SOME 21ST CENTURY STYLING
Can you imagine a wide open space added to your home, instantly generating a contemporary, stylish look? You can open up an entire area during the day or partially fold-back depending on the amount of fresh air and space you require. We manufacture standard windows and doors, bifold and patio doors, curtain walling and balustrade at our factory in Rumer Hill, Cannock. We manufacture all of our products in house therefore maintaining a consistently high standard and quality. Manufactured and installed to provide maximum viewing areas, our bi-fold and sliding doors add the 21st century to any property and can provide you with clearer access to your patio or garden bringing the outside in, just unlatch the high security locking and with a light push you have the access to your outdoor living area. When closed, Bi-fold and sliding doors offer shelter and warmth with little reduction in natural light, allowing you to stay connected to the outside from the comfort of your home. Our products meet the stringent security standards required for construction, security, safety, weather-tightness and strength of performance. This means behind its striking looks, your door is robust and built to last all-year round. 16
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
Whether we are asked to create and plan original bespoke designs from your requirements or we are working with other architects and designers, we promise you that from the moment we take on your project, we will work very closely with you from the start to the finish. Aluminium, Stainless Steel and Glass production has developed so much over the past few years that almost anything is possible to achieve your desired look, so please do not hesitate to contact us with your bespoke ideas, plans and projects. With our wealth of experience you can be assured that our ability to transform some style into your property comes with an attention to detail and uncompromising commitment to quality and performance, our aim is to deliver a first class product, at a competitive price. After we have installed your product, we offer after sales care advice to maintain and increase the effective life of your bespoke glass product. So if you are looking at updating your property and injecting style and the 21st century cutting edge chic, with a local Cannock based company, contact the team at Tech Aluminium Systems Ltd. Tech Aluminium Systems Limited Unit 10 Rumer Hill Business Estate Rumer Hill Road, Cannock, Staffordshire WS11 0ET 01543 467272 Website: www.techalumsystems.co.uk Email: admin@techalum.co.uk
• Curved Glass • Glass Balustrade & Balconies • Glass Partitions • Glass Doors, Patio Doors, Bi-fold Doors • Shop Fronts, Canopies & Entrance Glass Tech Alum Systems Limited Unit 10 Rumer Hill Business Estate Rumer Hill Road Cannock Staffordshire WS11 0ET
01543 467272 admin@techalum.co.uk
www.techalumsystems.co.uk
Interiors Italia
luxurious contemporary living Creating your dream home interior has never been easier thanks to Interiors Italia. With three floors packed full of stunning furniture, accessories, lighting and much more, there’s something to suit every style and budget. Established for over 35 years and based at its central location in Wolverhampton city centre for nine, the Italian company has established a loyal customer base that not only spans the local area but the entire country too. MADE WITH REAL
SWAROVSKI E L E M E N T S
MADE WITH REAL
SWAROVSKI E L E M E N T S
40% Discount on Nolte Starlight Bedroom Sets call today or visit us in store Nolte Starlight Bedroom Sets or visit us in store
This isn’t surprising when you consider what’s on offer, as Director, Roberta Colavito, explains: “We hand-pick all of the products we sell from manufactures in Italy and various other countries across the world. That’s why we have such a unique selection of furniture and accessories that are top quality and exceptionally well-priced.”
SALE NOW ON
79a Darlington Street Wolverhampton. WV1 4JD 01902 428 | 489 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK DECEMBER 2015 18 Telephone: Email: interiorsitalia@hotmail.co.uk
79a Darlington Street Wolverhampton. WV1 4JD Telephone: 01902 428 489 Email: interiorsitalia@hotmail.co.uk
In addition to the company’s authentic Italian designs, there
are also contemporary, traditional, industrial and rustic styles, including statement pieces from the Rootwood range.
“We work really hard to look after our customers and provide the best service and products we can, whilst keeping our prices completely affordable.”
“Our new Rootwood range is incredibly popular with our customers. There are so many beautiful pieces in the collection that would look amazing in any home.” If you’re looking for inspiration when it comes to planning the perfect look for your home interior, you’re sure to find it at the showroom. “All of our products are displayed in real room settings so that clients can get an idea of what items work well together. We’re always happy to offer advice and interior design help when it comes to planning a new look.” It’s this personal service and commitment to excellent customer care that really sets the company apart from the competition.
79a Darlington Street,Wolverhampton WV1 4JD Telephone: 01902 715 985 www.rootwoodhouse.co.uk 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 19
luxurious contemporary living...
MADE WITH REAL
SWAROVSKI E L E M E N T S
MADE WITH REAL
SWAROVSKI E L E M E N T S
40% Discount on Nolte Starlight Bedroom Sets call today or visit us in store Nolte Starlight Bedroom Sets or visit us in store
And for the Interiors Italia team excellent customer service doesn’t just apply in store: “We take a lot of care when we make our deliveries to our client’s homes. We have our own fleet of vans and a dedicated team of drivers who ensure that customers receive their item on time.” All of the company’s staff are experienced, trained and incredibly customer-focused.
SALE NOW ON
79a Darlington Street Wolverhampton. WV1 4JD 20
| DECEMBER STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK 2015 Telephone: 01902 428 489
Email: interiorsitalia@hotmail.co.uk
79a Darlington Street Wolverhampton. WV1 4JD Telephone: 01902 428 489 Email: interiorsitalia@hotmail.co.uk
“Excellent customer service is our number one priority; we try to meet the needs of all of our clients. If they can’t find what they’re looking for on display, they’re welcome to look in our warehouse or flick through one of our many catalogues and choose to have something ordered in.” The Interiors Italia team travel across the country to attend all manner of exhibitions, shows and events, like Grand Designs Live at the NEC: “We’ve showcased our styles at many different events and have really expanded our client base. We have supplied interior designers, show homes, restaurants and even footballers with our unique ranges. We’ve also appeared on the hit TV show, Big Fat Gypsy Weddings.” Whatever you’ve got planned for your home make sure you visit Interiors Italia today, so that you can experience excellent customer service and find something extra special.
79a Darlington Street,Wolverhampton WV1 4JD Telephone: 01902 715 985 www.rootwoodhouse.co.uk 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 21
DRF Kitchens hens & Bedrooms KitcBedrooms DRFand
MANUFACTURERS OF HIGH QUALITY KITCHENS & BEDROOMS FOR OVER 20 YEARS Our designers are passionate about designing kitchens and bedrooms. Our staff offer the best level of service, friendly and polite whilst remaining professional at all times. They aim to fulfill all your requirements but also design a kitchen or bedroom that suits your personality whether this is traditional, or contemporary. We are very experienced at providing kitchens and bedrooms in Staffordshire to the highest quality.
DRF Kitchens and Bedrooms are manufacturers of high quality kitchens and bedrooms, located in Burntwood.
is no exception. In the kitchen there are now integral televisions, wine coolers, and clever units which make maximum use of the space available. We have a large selection and choice of products in our showroom for you to
Manager, Tim Jones, is proud of the service he and his team provide “we are happy to provide you with a free no obligation quote; either bring in your own measurements, or we’ll come to your home and do this for you. We pride ourselves on our no pressure sales, our priority is to retain customer satisfaction at all times. This
We are an established business with over 20 years’ experience in the trade. We are very popular for our wide range of designs, colours and materials for your kitchen and bedroom needs. Being a manufacturer we can offer you a more bespoke design for your kitchen or bedroom so regardless of size, colour or materials, just call into our showroom for a chat. We manufacture to trade and retail. DRF will provide you with an extensive kitchen range to include all the space saving features of fitted and made to measure furniture; in addition to soft close doors, a range of worktops which include granite and other hard wearing options. Convenience lifestyles mean people are demanding new gadgets for all areas of our lives and the kitchen
choose for your kitchen and bedroom requirements. We also offer kitchen and bedroom planning, designing and installation service to help you make your house feel comfortable and make your house in to a dream home.
allows us to maintain our reputation for excellence. Our dedicated and enthusiastic team will ensure that your new kitchen or bedroom design project will be completed on time and will be hassle free”. We also specialise in kitchen and bedroom fittings and accessories. Our showroom is filled with various taps, tiles, flooring, dishwashers, microwaves and cookers to compliment your kitchen. Come and visit our showroom to find your dream Kitchen or Bedroom. Showroom opening times Monday-Thursday 8.00am-5.00pm Friday 8.00am-4.00pm Saturday 9.00am – 3.00pm Tel: 01543 683666 www.drfkitchensandbedrooms.co.uk
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STAFFORDSHIRE 2015 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK OUTLOOK || DECEMBER SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
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DRF Kitchens and Bedrooms Manufacturers of Kitchens and Bedrooms Please call into our showrom to see our large selection of high quality kitchens and bedrooms Monday-Thursday 8.00am-5.00pm, Friday 8.00am-4.00pm and Saturday 9.00am-3.00pm
01543 683666 e : t i m . d r f @ h o t m a i l . co m
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Quick Crossword
Across 1 5 8 9 10 11 12 14 17 19 22 23 24 25
Down
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 12 13 15 16 18 20 21
Nearest (7) Inexpensive (5) Type of cattle (7) A slight fever (5) Sweet, thick liquid (5) Flat area of high land (7) Form of dance (6) In good condition (6) Family member (7) Trimmed (5) Enclosed within (5) Non-professional (7) Dizzy (5) Painters (7) 3D squares (5) To give or volunteer (5) Prototype (7) Soldiers (6) Bedtime drink (5) Obvious (7) Contaminate (7) Imploring (7) Highly intelligent (7) Graceful (7) Type of fruit (6) Unclean (5) Conjecture (5) Risks (5)
CHRISTMAS PICTOGRAMS
Puzzle solutions on Page 66 24
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
FROM the moment customers step into or contact Stafford Carpets, they have access to more than 50 years of flooring experience. For people who struggle to get out, it’s no problem for the team at Stafford Carpets as a member of the team will bring flooring samples for you to look at in the comfort of your own home. If you are busy in the day, we can arrange a time to measure up during an evening convenient to the client. The team can even help with moving furniture, lifting and taking away old flooring.
Each client will be looked after by a trained member of staff who will oversee every enquiry from the initial order to ensure that flooring is fitted at a day and time that is convenient. With more than 60 rolls of carpet, over 30 rolls of cushion floor and hundreds of remnants in store, clientele are guaranteed to find what they are looking for at a price that will not be beaten anywhere else. In addition, excellent quality laminates, luxury vinyl tiles, and solid oak flooring are available, all in stock at unbelievable prices. Stock changes arriving on a weekly basis. Flooring products are installed by professional fitters trained to the highest standards and all our work is guaranteed providing customers with peace of mind. No job is too small, whether it’s flooring for an en suite or for a full house, one of the team will spend time and show you all the options that are available. In addition to the excellent service, a free measuring and quotation service is carried out.
Call in to see the extensive flooring collection where the team always have the kettle on so you can have a cuppa while you look around.Get in touch to arrange a free quote, help with measuring up or advice. Manager Tony Smith is always on hand, just call 01785 600695 or simply email your request to, staffordcarpets@hotmail.co.uk. Alternatively, pop into the Stafford Carpets and Flooring showroom at Unit 9, Astonfields, Business Park, Astonfields Road, Stafford, ST16 3UF
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 25
Winter Treats in the Perennial Garden SEED HEADS & BERRIES ARE NATURE’S STORE CUPBOARD FOR HUNGRY BIRDS The depths of winter could be a dull and dreary time in the perennial garden with plants dormant and snuggled up below ground but there can still be plenty of interest for both gardeners and wildlife.
Goldfinches
Phlomis russeliana As the memory of summer fades in the garden the bones of flowering plants remain to add interest though the winter months. Many perennials retain stems, dry flowers and seed heads that catch the low sun and become dusted in frost, sparkling in the winter sunshine. Seed heads and berries are nature’s store cupboard hoarding food for hungry birds in times of hardship. The lazy gardener has an immediate advantage over the tidy one who clears away everything in autumn but a little thought and planning can make all the difference. I use three rules of thumb in deciding what should stay and what must be cut down early. Firstly, if it’s diseased or likely to harbour disease then get rid of it; so Phlox stems go early to avoid any chance of harbouring eelworm. Secondly, stems that are hard and have a good shape can be left through the winter and those that go soft or mushy should be cleared away in autumn. Thirdly, if the plant is tender at all leave the stems and dry leaves to protect the crown. Plants like Jerusalem Sage (Phlomis russeliana) are natural performers: the heart-shaped leaves are ground-hugging evergreens and the seed heads are like pepper pots along the length of the stiff stems and are eagerly sought out by finches. The stems attract frost on cold nights and become encrusted and bejewelled by morning. Bubblemint (Agastache) has stems like ears of wheat and the tweezer-like beaks of goldfinches are ideally suited to extracting their tiny seeds. Some perennials need a little work to bring out their winter best. Fennel (Foeniculum) has upright stems and seed heads like the spokes of an umbrella but the dead leaves hang like rags on the stem so it’s best to strip these off to reveal its true majesty.
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Other perennials with good winter shape include Verbena, Bridal Wreath (Francoa), Bergamot (Monarda), and Sea Holly (Eryngium) Ornamental grasses are the kings of winter structure adding drama and stature. The spent husks of the Giant Spanish Oats (Stipa gigantea) blow in the winter gales and shine with frost on crisp sunny mornings. These will remain on the plants until a tidy-up in early March. The Silver Grasses (Miscanthus) have bold outlines and large silky flowers throughout the winter. The leaves gradually turn from green to gold and the brown. Other good winter grasses include Feather Grass (Pennisetum), Korean Grass (Calamagrostis) and Switch Grass (Panicum) Eventually in late winter or early spring the stems will need to be cleared away. Don’t forget the shelter these have been giving the dormant buds below and wait for a mild spell before cutting back to avoid a shock to the plant. Winter doesn’t have to be a barren season in the perennial garden and good things come to those that wait!
Martin Blow Janet & I run SpecialPerennials, a small garden nursery in Hankelow Cheshire where we hold two National Plant Collections and grow a large range of plants for a nature friendly garden. Our garden was featured on BBC Gardener’s World in 2014. Our website www.specialperennials.com is full of colour photos and growing tips. We sell by mail order and also at Plant Hunters’ Fairs throughout the season. You can find all the dates on www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk
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CANNOCK FRIENDS OF ST GILES ALL WELCOME TO THE ANNUAL LIGHT A LIFE SERVICE The annual Light up a Life service held by St Giles Hospice and the Cannock Friends’ of St Giles at St Luke’s Church in Cannock will be held this year on Sunday 13th December. The service begins at 6.00pm but the Church will be open from 5.15pm. Cannock Friends of St Giles and members of the Rotary and Soroptimist International clubs of Cannock will welcome all those who attend with orders of service and a candle to remember the life of a loved one.
Cannock Friends are delighted that the service will again be enhanced by singers Bel Canto. It is always a most moving service and anyone and everyone who wishes to remember the life of someone will be made most welcome.
There will be a change this year as everything will be contained within the Church. The Book of Remembrance will be in the Lady Chapel and can be viewed before and after the service. Many people have the name of a loved one recorded in the book - this can be arranged via St Giles, the person remembered does not have to have been looked after by the Hospice or any of their outreach services. In previous years the St Giles ‘shop’ and refreshments have been available in the Church Centre - this year these too will be available in the church, following the service. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided by Cannock Friends of St Giles there is no charge for this.
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STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
Contact: Sharon Caldwell t: 01952 321334 e: sharon@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk www.staffordshireoutlook.co.uk
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Cannock’s largest choice of carpets, rugs and floor coverings. Let us take the strain out of purchasing a new carpet for your home! Come and visit our local showroom and view our huge range of floor coverings. Our helpful staff will show you our large selection of lounge & bedroom carpets, rugs plus much more... We also offer commercial and contract carpets and rugs at a discounted price. Make your selection in the relaxed, friendly atmosphere of our showroom situated in Cannock.
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We wish you a safe doggy Christmas! A FEW TIPS FOR YOUR FURRY FRIEND THIS FESTIVE SEASON! The festive season can be a strange time for our dogs. Their usual home environment is filled with trees, flowers and other decorations and there are odd noises such as crackers and fireworks. Your routine is likely to change and there may be unfamiliar visitors coming to the house. We have tried to give you a few of the most common Christmas dangers around the home for your dog below. It goes without saying, if in doubt about your pet’s health contact your vet and they will be able to advise you.
Food hazards
Chocolate, onions, nuts, blue cheese, fruit cakes, puddings and mince pies can all be toxic to dogs. Watch out for turkey bones as these can cause choking, constipation or cause damage to your dog’s intestines.
entire ribbon of tinsel in one go! Again these are often not especially toxic (even if not particularly nutritious either) but can bunch up and cause blockages or, more worryingly start to work their way through the guts whilst some is still in the stomach, this effectively runs a thread through the intestines and causes a linear foreign body which can be extremely serious! Your dog may also get a nasty shock if they chew through the electrical cable for your Christmas lights!
Holly, mistletoe and poinsettia
All of these pretty types of festive foliage are mildly toxic if ingested and can cause vomiting, drooling, diarrhoea to name a few, so should be avoided or kept well out of reach.
Batteries
Ingestion of batteries is more common at this time of year. If the battery is chewed and pierced it can cause chemical burns and heavy metal poisoning. If they are swallowed whole it is possible they will cause an obstruction. All batteries are potentially toxic so if you suspect your dog has chewed or swallowed a battery speak to your local vet.
Presents
Christmas trees
Most species are low toxicity but may cause a mild gastrointestinal upset (vomiting and/or diarrhoea) if chewed. Pine needles in themselves can get stuck in paws and cause irritation as well as potentially causing irritation or perforation of the intestines if eaten. Vacuum daily and ideally keep plenty of water in the bucket to help reduce the number of fallen needles.
Decorations
Christmas decorations are designed to look attractive and beautiful; unfortunately this usually means they are also tempting to your furry friends. Whilst not often toxic in their own right they can still cause significant problems if ingested. Baubles will tend to splinter or smash into shards which can cause irritation, perforation or blockages and dogs tend to eat tinsel a little like spaghetti - often consuming an 1 30
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2015 2015
One area where people can come unstuck is with Christmas presents. We put a lot of effort in hiding away potential problems but then wrap up auntie Flo’s big box of chocolates to place under the tree. Although we can no longer tell what it is... our dogs can! Apart from the irritation of having them unwrap someone else’s present and having diarrhoea in the living room on Christmas day, there is likely to be an emergency trip to the vets needed. Make sure any tasty or tempting presents are placed high enough out of the way so that your dog can’t help themselves.
Composite Doors at Winterwarmth THE NEWLY DESIGNED WAY FORWARD FOR DOORS Composite doors are the newest type of doors used in homes. Composite doors have been designed taking into consideration the common flaws experienced in singular material doors. Using a combination of materials which have been selected for their beneficial properties, composite doors allow for the old flaws to be effectively ‘designed out’. Composite doors are made up from a variety of materials, including PVC, wood, insulating foam and GRP (glass reinforced plastic). The combinations of materials result in a door that is very strong and secure. They have a high resistance to weathering and will not react to seasonal changes like a singular material door. They have a higher thermal resistance than wooden doors, due to the insulating foam core. They are designed to appear as a wooden door, with an attractive wood grain, but thanks to the materials used, it won’t fade, discolour or require any maintenance beyond wiping with a damp cloth if it gets dirty. Their superior quality sets a new high standard within the door industry, with a fantastic range of colours make sure your next door is a Composite door from Winterwarmth. We also sell a large range of products including Windows, Conservatories, Patio Doors, Bi-folding doors, and Fascia’s
/Sofits. All of our products are A rated and energy efficient. We also offer a glazing service, including mirrors, glass shelves, processed work, any size and style and replacement sealed units.
Visit our showroom to see our collection of Composite doors we are based at Astonfields Road Business Park in Stafford or call for a free no obligation quotation on 01785 256085, alternatively you can visit our website on www.winterwarmth.co.uk Whatever your requirements our friendly staff are available to offer help and advice.
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Adopt an Appliance NEW CAMPAIGN HOPES TO INCREASE RECYCLING RATES ACROSS THE COUNTY
Bring your unused or unwanted electrical appliances to one of Staffordshire’s Household Waste Recycling Centres, and we’ll find them a new home. People from across Staffordshire are being invited to recycle their old electrical goods to support a local charity and help boost recycling in the county. Staffordshire County Council, along with FCC Environment, who operate the county’s Household Waste Recycling Centres and Katharine House Hospice are behind the latest initiative. The ‘Adopt an Appliance’ campaign hopes to increase recycling rates across the county and wants people to donate their old unused, unwanted and broken electrical goods to their local Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC). Items brought to any of the county’s HWRCs that can be reused will be sent to the Katharine House Hospice Re-use Shop at the Cannock HWRC where the items would be tested and then sold on to the public. Stereos, televisions, DVD players, electric fires and kitchen equipment are amongst the items which will be available in the Re-use Shop. Any items brought in that are not suitable for reuse or beyond repair, will still be recycled. Cllr Mark Winnington, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for the Economy, Environment and Transport, said: “Every year thousands of unused and
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STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
unwanted household electrical appliances get thrown away. Some of these unwanted goods are still in perfect working order and simply need a new home where someone will use them. “We want to make it as easy as possible for people to recycle used goods and the new arrangements with the Katharine House Hospice Re-use Shop are helping us do this. This is good news for local people who want to donate their goods and even better news for those people wanting to buy reusable items. This also means that we are able to increase levels of recycling and reuse across Staffordshire, which are key priorities for us. Everyone’s a winner, so remember to recycle your old electrical items.” Staffordshire has 14 HWRCs across the county where electrical goods can be recycled. Other recycling initiatives are available at each facility, including materials such as Carpet, Mattress and hard plastic recycling as well as Reuse. The project is being funded by the Distributor Takeback Scheme (DTS) as part of the Government’s drive to increase recycling rates across the country. For further information on the campaign or how to adopt an appliance visit www.adoptanappliance.co.uk . Share your unwanted, unused electrical items on Facebook and Twitter by searching SCRAP and Instagram by using #SCRAP.
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Eating out over the Festive Season CELEBRATE IN A VERY UNIQUE WAY WITH ALL YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS
There’s something very special about a perfectly prepared meal, served with panache in beautiful and comfortable surroundings. It can help celebrate in a very unique way, any special time of year. Christmas is of course the most special time of the whole calendar, and eating out over the season, a perfect and traditional way to enjoy the festival with all your family and friends. Caterers, no matter how excellent at other times of the year, still pull out all the stops at Christmas. Special menus are devised. Special meals are created. Restaurants, whether standing alone, or part of pubs, clubs and hotels, are decorated in the traditional, seasonal way. Party bookings are particularly welcome, and special entertainments are put on, to help the party mood go with a swing. There are several good gastronomic ways of marking the coming of this very gastronomic season. You can have a traditional Christmas lunch, most restaurants put these on daily for several weeks before Christmas actually arrives. The menu usually comprises Christmas fare with all the trimmings, with thoughtful additions for those who might just prefer something else. This provides an ideal opportunity to entertain business colleagues, clients, customers, friends or relatives, with an intimate, festive repast. Then there are the evenings. Party bookings enable groups of colleagues, entire departments, whole firms, complete family groups, associations, club members, or just good friends, to gather together and enjoy a memorable evening out. Special menus, seasonal trimmings, discos, bands and groups, are laid on by caterers to please their guests and keep them happy the whole evening through. Party bookings of this sort are usually tremendous bargains and can be about the best value for money in dining out, it is possible to find.
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Of course, the very best value for money is wining and dining out on Christmas Day. This is becoming more popular with every passing year. It offers several very real advantages. It relieves at least one member of the family of all the work. It doesn’t require clearing up afterwards. It allows the lonely the opportunity of enjoying this festive meal in company. And because it is prepared by professionals, it is always a meal worthy of the occasion and a joy to eat in itself. Christmas Day menus are well worth the booking. Normally several courses of mouth-watering traditional foods are offered, with one or two luxury alternatives for those with special dietary needs or simply a requirement to have something a little different for once. Diners can be sure too that the wines ordered to accompany the food will be of excellent quality and served at just the perfect temperature. Of course all this costs a little bit more. However, when you think of the service that is provided, not to mention the cooking and clearing away, really the Christmas Day meal is probably the ultimate bargain of all. This year, try a festive meal or two at your favourite restaurant, at some time during the hectic weeks leading up to The Day. Gather a group of friends or colleagues together and book a party meal and entertainment. And if you really want to give mum the very best present of all, book a Christmas Day meal for all the family. That way you can be really sure, everyone you know and love, will have the very best Christmas ever!
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RECIPE
Serves 4 By Michael Peter Whitehurst
A ChristmAs DAy AlternAtive
Roasted Guinea Fowl with sour dough bread sauce, tarragon, cobnuts and smoked bacon sprouts.
InGRedIents • 1 whole guinea fowl (1.2 kilo) • 1 lemon halved • 1 bunch of tarragon, parsley and thyme • Maldon sea salt • 2 litre of chicken stock • 250ml of Madeira • 4 banana shallots peeled and diced • 6 cloves of garlic peeled • 12 cloves • 2 parsnips peeled and cut length ways in half • Rapeseed oil • 1 large white onion quartered • 300g sprouts halved and peel outer leaves • 300g slab of skinless smoked streaky bacon from Rich Hipkiss at the Spar Compton Method
• A large handful of cobnuts - you need about 5 nuts per person • 1 kilo of potatoes (I use wilja or reds) • 200g of sour dough bread blitzed up • 500ml of milk • 300ml of double cream • 100g of unsalted butter diced and frozen equIpMent • 1 large roasting tray • 1 heavy bottomed sauce pan • 1 small saucepan • chopping board • sharp knife • peeler • sieve • sauté pan a mental note of the line in the pan). Place this in the fridge over night ready to separate in the morning.
1. *Chef's tip, for the milk and chicken stock use a very large (deep) saucepan if you have one so when the milk starts to rise it doesn't escape from the pan all over your hob.
3. Crack open the cobnuts and dry out in the oven for about an hour on 120°C then allow to cool ready to use the next day.
2. On Christmas Eve take 500ml of chicken stock and 500ml of milk add to the pan with the onion, 2 garlic cloves, a few sprigs of tarragon, thyme and parsley, 12 spice cloves and half the lemon. Bring the pan to the boil, add in 1 litre of water and allow this to simmer until the litre of water has evaporated (make
4. On Christmas Day Turn your oven on to heat up to 180°C. Gas mark 4. Take your bird and pick off as many of the remaining feathers, don’t wash the bird as any bacteria will be killed off during cooking. Take the other half of your lemon and stuff inside the bird with a few sprigs of tarragon, parsley and
1 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015 38 36
wolverhampton west magazine
thyme. Now wash your hands! Sprinkle sea salt all over the skin of the bird and place upside down in the oven. It will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. 5. Separate the cold milk and chicken stock from the dry ingredients and place the liquid back on the heat, peel the potatoes and parsnips and boil in the milk and chicken stock until soft, add extra water to make sure vegetables are submerged. Now take the bird out of the oven, turn it over and carefully spoon out the fat from the tray. Drizzle this over the potatoes and parsnips and sit the veg in the tray with the bird and put back in the oven until cooked through. 6. Meanwhile using the infused liquid from the potato and parsnips add in the breadcrumbs and cream, then simmer until thickened and keep warm - if it is too thick just stir in a little water.
pan with half the madeira, scrape with a wooden spatula and set aside. In the small saucepan add half the amount of diced shallots, slice the rest of the garlic thinly and fry gently in a little rapeseed oil until softened. Now pour in the deglazed pan juices, the remaining madeira and the chicken stock and then rapidly boil until it has reduced and is starting to thicken. Whisk in the frozen butter and keep warm. 9. Warm your plates in the oven on the lowest setting and then I recommend you carve the bird, split the legs and wings up and place everything onto a serving platter, put the bread sauce in a bowl and the sauce into a jug and present in the middle of your dinner table for everyone to help themselves. seRvInG suGGestIon Serve with a very cold glass of Prosseco or Elderflower presse.
7. Once your bird has reached 75°C inside and the juices run clear sit on the side with some foil over the top to allow to rest. Let the potatoes keep on roasting and get on with the sprouts. Boil your sprouts for about 4 minutes in salted water, chill under cold running water and set aside. In your sautÊ pan add the rest of the shallots, and chunky dice the bacon, fry this gently until the fat renders from the bacon and it starts to brown. Pour off the excess fat from the bacon and now add in the cobnuts and sprouts and toss until everything is browning nicely. 8. When the potatoes and parsnips are ready transfer them to a serving dish to keep warm and deglaze the
For any recipe advice please contact mike@takefood.co.uk and sign up to my recipe blog here: www.takefood.co.uk/blog
www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk
01952321334 321334| | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 239 01952 37
Classic Collection Holidays - the award-winning independent specialist tour operator, celebrating over 27 years in the travel industry. With luxury tailor-made holidays and our friendly and knowledgeable service we look forward to working with the staff at Tracy Mason Travel to create your perfect holiday for 2016. Together with our range of destinations including the Mediterranean, North Africa and Bermuda and our new dedicated brochure to Barbados, we feature specialist holidays from family to adult-only, to those looking for more of a cultural experience with our luxury European city breaks. We offer an excellent range of four and five star hotels, multi-centre options, city and train travel. We pride ourselves on our service in designing and delivering, tailor-made luxury holidays at competitive and affordable prices. Private transfers are included on all of our holidays and we offer departures from numerous UK airports, allowing you to travel in comfort and style. Our holidays are 100% financially protected (through the CAA & ABTA) and our price promise ensures that you receive the best value for money for your holiday We’ve proud that the Canary Islands with their great year round climate, have featured prominently for more than a decade. Many of the luxury properties that we offer in our programme have been included since the early days and due to the longevity of the relationships, many of the hoteliers and managers have become life-long friends not only with us but with many of our customers who return especially during the British winter months to enjoy the fantastic weather, friendly Spanish hospitality and delicious cuisine. Tenerife – an island of contrasts, boasts a long sunny coastline with gigantic sea cliffs and numerous sandy beaches against a backdrop of Spain’s highest mountain, Mount Teide: snow-capped for much of the year. There are trendy resorts and traditional villages and a friendly international culture combined with Carnivals of tradition. The largest and most popular of the Canary Islands, boasting the greatest number of tourist attractions, is the triangular 40 2
DECEMBER 2015 2015 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | NOVEMBER
shaped island of Tenerife. Home to Mount Teide the highest mountain in Spain, Tenerife also features numerous beaches, magnificent sea cliffs, bustling new resorts and traditional towns and villages. The coastline stretches some 269km and features spectacular cliffs and coves, some golden sands (Santa Cruz) and many black volcanic sand beaches. Tenerife’s capital, Santa Cruz, boasts many beautiful historic buildings with its hub around the Plaza de Espana, close to the busy harbour. This fantastic city is the perfect location for things to do in Tenerife. There are two noteworthy churches, a lively bazaar and food market, Auditario the state of the art Opera House, and a couple of interesting museums: one housing the cannon which allegedly removed Admiral Nelson’s arm! Located on the south coast is Playa de las Américas, one of Tenerife’s most popular holiday destinations. Originally a quiet fishing village it developed in the 1970s into the social hub that it is today. The beaches are the resorts main attraction. There are a number of beaches with Playa los Cristanos and Playa de las Vistas being better for families with their shallow waters. Playa de Troya and Playa del Bobo are the resorts main beaches. Lined with restaurants, bars, shops and a number of watersports centres, you’ll never be stuck for things to do in Playa de las Américas. Caldera de las Canadas is a16km wide volcanic crater with Mount Teide at its northern edge. The high altitude walking is sensational but not for the feint hearted although a cable car takes you to within 200m of the summit to enjoy stunning views from this volcanically active summit, which at 3,718m is Spain’s highest mountain. For more information about Tenerife or any of the other Canary Islands, contact Tracy Mason Travel today.
Celebrating 10 Years!
Travel in Penkridge. Paula has been in Merry Christmas & Happy New Year travel for 26 years and she also started as an YTSTracy at Co-op and Jackie who to all our clients from Mason Travel We want to thank you all for your has worked at Tracy Mason Travel independently owned Tracy Mason
continuing support. We look forward to welcoming new clients who want to be Please in to customer speak about your treated withcall excellent service from2016 a travel company whowith care!”a coffee holiday, relax
Mason 100 %deciding ABTA andyour takeTravel youristime dedicated to sourcing perfect Tracyand Tracy Mason Director of Tracythe Mason protected; being part of one of holiday to“We suit offer you the andhighest your budget.ATOL next destination! Travel added: levels personal service care andrange the largest independent travel agencies, Weofspecialise in an and extensive Hays Travel who are also celebrating are dedicated to sourcing the perfect of travel UK your breaks, to around their 35th anniversary this year. holiday to suitfrom you and budget. world in tailor made holidays Wethe specialise an extensive range Please call in to speak about of travel from UK breaks, to around We your next holiday, relax with to your dream destinations. the world tailor made holidays to your a coffee and take your time book through all of the well-known deciding your next destination! dream destinations. We book through operators including Thomson, all of the well-known operators including Thomson, First Choice, Thomas Cook, First Choice, Thomas Cook, Jet 2, JetOlympic 2, Olympicand andKuoni. Kuoni. Having been Stone StoneCross Cross a very successful business in Penkridge Mason Travel is 100many % ABTA Penkridge Penkridge forTracy 10 years. we have acquired Tracy Mason Travel Stafford loyal clients who have now become and ATOL protected; being part Stafford Stone Cross, Penkridge great friends. We are so grateful to all ST19 5AS ST19 5AS of one of the largest independent Stafford ST19 5AS of you for your business over the last 10 T: 01785 712332 travel Hays Travel. T: 01785 712332 years, andagencies, here’s to another 10 years! 01785 712332
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Tracy, Paula and Jackie at Tracy Mason Travel would like to wish Jackieclients Armitage, a very Merry allTracy ofL-R: their Mason, Paula Kolodziej Christmas and a Happy New Year! Tracy Mason Travel is Over the years we 10th have acquired celebrating their many loyal clients who have anniversary this month. nowhope become We We yougreat will friends. all agree that 10allyears is for their want to thank of them acontinuing huge achievement support. We look for any business! forward to welcoming new clients The Tracyprofessional Mason are made andteam withat our and up with Director, Tracy who has service; friendly level of customer worked in the travel industry for 28 you too be booking travel years. Tracywill started her careeryour at Lunn Poly as a YTS and for progressed into a to requirements many years manager come. of 3 stores, before starting the
for 2 years. They all share between them years of travel experience, and We offer the highest levels of can provide clients with a wealth of personaland service care and are knowledge expertand advice.
EBRATING EL
T: 01785 712332 We specialise in an extensive range of travel from UK breaks, to around the world tailor made holidays to your dream destinations. We are a privately owned travel agency. Call in to speak about your next holiday, relax with a coffee and take your time deciding your next destination!
Tracy Mason Travel, Stone Cross, Penkridge, Stafford ST19 5AS WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 41 01952 321334 01952 321334 | | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 01952 321334 533
Joseph Ribkoff
at Aristocats The entrepreneur, Joseph Ribkoff, launched his first collection in 1957 when women’s fashion was undergoing a complete revolution. Since then the Joseph Ribkoff label has created a product that has the reputation of being innovatively versatile, affordable and yet appealing to a global market. The brand also prides itself on having unmatched, excellent customer service. Company priorities include knowing and understanding retailer’s requirements.
Joseph Ribkoff proudly remains one of Canada’s leading exporters. All clothing is designed, produced and exported from Dorval, Quebec in Canada, a remarkable feat in today’s ever changing fashion world. The designs reflect an understanding of current fashion trends that respond to the multi-dimensional needs of women world-wide. The Joseph Ribkoff fashion market offers the discerning woman, whatever her age or size, a unique range of stylish clothing. The collections include: • Versatile dresses to suit any occasion, day, evening or night time
1 STAFFORDSHIRE 42 STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK OUTLOOK || DECEMBER DECEMBER2015 2015 98
• Formal occasion evening wear • Contemporary stylish separates with exceptional fit • A Sportswear line that is ‘trendy’ and cannot be found elsewhere Aristocats have recently dedicated a showroom for the popular Joseph Ribkoff brand. The room displays a wide selection of the company’s day, evening, smart occasion and cruise wear. In addition, twice a year, Joseph Ribkoff personnel and Aristocats staff organise seated presentation fashion shows at Aristocats. These give customers the opportunity to view and be inspired by the wide range of unique designs and ‘Hot Styles’ from the latest collections.
wolverhampton west magazine
Open Monday to Friday 10am – 5pm, Saturday 10am - 4pm Open Monday to Friday 10am – 5pm, Saturday 10am - 4pm Ample parking behind the premises in New Street or on the road opposite the Esso petrol station. Ample parking behind the premises in New Street or on the road opposite the Esso petrol station.
Co-ordinated Day Wear • Coats • Cocktail & Evening Wear Co-ordinated Day Wear••Belts Coats• •Bags Cocktail & Evening Wear Lingerie • Accessories • Jewellery • Hosiery Lingerie • Accessories • Belts • Bags • Jewellery • Hosiery 234 Coalway Road, Penn,Wolverhampton WV3 7NN Tel: 01902 344003 234 Coalway Road, Penn,Wolverhampton WV3 7NN Tel: 01902 344003
Get ready for a Glamorous Christmas
GET THAT GOLDEN GLOW & CONFIDENCE TO SHOW OFF YOUR PINS THIS PARTY SEASON
Winter is upon us and we all need to a bit of a lift. We have a range of treatments here at La Minky which will help pick you up and have you radiant and ready for the party season.
Get Painted! Be on trend this party season with our range of varnishes from CND Shellac and CND Vinylux
CND Shellac
windows to the soul after all. Eyelash tint £8, Eyebrow tint £5, HD Brows £12, Lash & Eyebrow tint combo £11,Eyelash Perm £15 and for that wow factor try our glamorous flare lashes at £25 or single wear strip lashes for £15
Get that golden glow If you want the confidence to show off your pins this party season why not try our St Tropez Spray tan. You can get that healthy golden look in minutes with the new St Tropez revolutionary Spray Tan Express. It lets you select how dark you want to go by choosing when you shower. It is great for those busy pre-Christmas days or party nights out as you can develop a light, sun-kissed glow after 1 hour, or if you have more time why not go for a golden tan that takes only 2 hours to develop. Or the ultimate deep, dark bronze result after 3 hours or more before showering. Once showered your skin feels smooth and silky. This Christmas when you have your spray tan we are offering the revolutionary ‘St Tropez Gradual in Shower Tan’ for just £7.95 (usual price £14.50). So you can keep your tan topped up or use it as a stocking filler, either way it is a real bargain. Spray Tan £25. Patch test required 48 hrs. before treatment. Offer subject to availability and runs until December 21st 2015.
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Experience chip-free manicure technology with the superior CND SHELLAC with 14 day nail colour.
CND Vinylux
Why not take advantage of our onsite hairdressers Salon la Mink and complete your look with a stylish hairup or glamorous curls.
This is a week-long wear polish that has a fast service time and dries in 8 minutes. Each colour has a built in base coat and the top coat gets stronger with exposure to natural light; colour is locked in, no chips and no cracks for up to a week!
Pretty and preened
Don’t forget to treat your lashes and brows to a bit of pre-party preening. We offer a range of services to make the most of your peepers. They are the
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
Gift vouchers available for that perfect gift. Remember to book soon so you don’t miss out and beat the Christmas rush. We all look forward to seeing you over the festive season.
Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year from all the team x
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
2
Let feel Letus usmake makeyou you fantastic this feel fantastic with Christmas, with our our fabulous offers fabulous festive offers Swedish Back Massage
For £15
Escape the stresses of winter (Normal price £25)
with a relaxing back massage Offer runs till the end of October 2015 and receive a complimentary facial massage
Intimate Waxing
for just £25
20% OFF
(pre-offer price for both treatments £50)
Offer runs until the end of January 2016
all intimate waxing Available for men Look smooth this & women Christmas offer runs until the end of October 2015
Follow us
LaMinky
with our waxing offer: ½ leg, underarms & brow wax
After-care service for just £22 for our with2015 Offer runs until clients 21st December hair extensions Wash, conditioning Get a golden glow treatment and blow dry this winter.
From £12
When you have a spray tan we are offering the revolutionary ‘St Tropez Gradual in Shower Tan’
Book 4 After-care service's for just and get the£7.95 5th FREE (usual price £14.50).
Offer runs till the end of October 2015
Offer runs until 21st December 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 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 45 Hatherton, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 1SD
ready etet ready
WHAT WHATISISLIPOFREEZE? LIPOFREEZE? Christmas Christmas isisthe theseason toto‘eat, ‘eat, and andbebemerry’, merry’, but butwith with this thiscomes comes Cryolipolysis Cryolipolysis (LipoFreeze (LipoFreeze orseason or FatFat Freezing) Freezing) is is adrink new adrink new phenomenon phenomenon and and proven proven non-invasive non-invasive Lipo Lipo procedure. procedure. WHAT WHATISISLIPOFREEZE? LIPOFREEZE? It uses It uses cooling cooling technology technology that that results results in in localized localized fat fat reduction. reduction. The The technology technology behind behind Cryolipolysis, Cryolipolysis, was Christmas isevents, isthe theseason to to ‘eat, ‘eat, drink and andbe be merry’, merry’, but butmost with with this this comes comes Cryolipolysis Cryolipolysis (LipoFreeze orseason or Fat Fat Freezing) Freezing) is are is adrink new aexpected new phenomenon phenomenon and and proven proven non-invasive non-invasive Lipo Lipo procedure. aChristmas ahost host of(LipoFreeze ofevents, where where you you are expected to to be be atat your your most fabulous. fabulous. Ifprocedure. If was designed designed and and developed developed by by dermatologists dermatologists at at Harvard Harvard Medical Medical University. University. Their Their analysis analysis revealed revealed that that fat uses It uses cooling cooling technology technology that that results results in in localized localized fatfat reduction. reduction. The technology technology behind behind Cryolipolysis, Cryolipolysis, was wasfat athe ahost host ofof events, events, where where you you are are expected expected totobe be atThe atyour your most most fabulous. fabulous. Ifcells If crystallize the thought thought of of donning donning your your little little black black dress dress fills fills you you with with dread; dread; fear fear not. not. cells cells are are more more responsive responsive to to the the effects effects of of cold cold in in contrast contrast to to the the surrounding surrounding tissue. tissue. Fat Fat cells crystallize designed designedand anddeveloped developedbybydermatologists dermatologistsatatHarvard HarvardMedical MedicalUniversity. University.Their Theiranalysis analysisrevealed revealedthat thatfatfat inwith inwith breaking breaking down down the the fat fatcrystallize cells cellswhilst whilst at atthe different different temperatures temperatures causing causing complete complete cell cell death. It is Ittofills istofills thought thought ofofdonning donning your your little black black dress dress you you dread; dread; fear fear not. not. ells cells are are more more responsive responsive to to the the effects effects oflittle ofcalled cold cold indeath. incontrast contrast the the surrounding surrounding tissue. tissue. Fat Fat cells cells crystallize Athe Arevolutionary revolutionary new new treatment treatment called LipoFreeze LipoFreeze from from UltraSlim UltraSlim Clinics Clinics sparing sparing all all the the other other tissue tissue like like the the skin, skin, muscle muscle mass, mass, and and nerve nerve in inbreaking breakingdown downthe thefatfatcells cellswhilst whilst tatdifferent differenttemperatures temperaturescausing causingcomplete completecell celldeath. death.It is It is
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Target TargetExcess ExcessFat Fat& &Reduce ReduceCellulite Cellulite • • Treat Treat up up to to 4 4 areas areas simultaneously simultaneously totoreduce reducetime timeand andcosts costs Target TargetExcess ExcessFat Fat& &Reduce ReduceCellulite Cellulite •Clinically Clinically FDA FDA Medically MedicallyCleared and and Effective Effective • ••Treat Treat upuptoProven, to4Proven, 4areas areas simultaneously simultaneously toCleared toreduce reduce time time and andcosts costs • • The The latest latest treatment treatment to to banish banish unwanted unwanted fat fat permanently permanently • •Clinically ClinicallyProven, Proven,FDA FDAMedically MedicallyCleared Clearedand andEffective Effective •Undeniable Undeniable results results byto by up uptoto40% 40% in inonly only one one treatment treatment • ••The The latest latesttreatment treatment to banish banish unwanted unwanted fat fat permanently permanently • • No No Surgery, Surgery, No No Scars Scars & & No No Downtime Downtime • •Undeniable Undeniableresults resultsbybyupuptoto40% 40%in inonly onlyone onetreatment treatment •The The treatment treatment all all the thestars and and celebrities celebritieshave have • ••No No Surgery, Surgery, NoNo Scars Scars & stars &NoNo Downtime Downtime been been shouting shouting about • •The The treatment treatment allabout allthe thestars starsand andcelebrities celebritieshave have 46
been beenshouting shoutingabout about
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER 2015
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 47
SI CANNOCK & DISTRICT
DORA LEIGHTON 3RD APRIL 1916 - 7TH OCTOBER 2015 It is with great sadness that Cannock Soroptimists - and indeed Soroptimists elsewhere in the Region and abroad - mourn the passing of their much loved Dora in her 100th year. Dora Leighton, nee Richards, was known, loved and admired by so many people in the local area and beyond. She was born in Bridgtown, married a local man, Jim Leighton and brought up her family there. She was a teacher of dance, travelling to youth clubs throughout Staffordshire; so many Cannock people were taught to dance by Dora. Even when she stopped teaching she continued to do her dance exercises regularly. In her early 90s she was still able to do the splits: though she said she had to do them at the side of the bed so that she had something to hold onto to get her up! She was most upset with herself because she could no longer kick her leg above her shoulder! Dora was a Soroptimist for over 47 years, having joined SI Cannock & District in January 1968; she was President in 1974/75 and again in 1981/82 and was made an Honorary member in 2005. Dora was always an active member of the club, getting involved in everything - her interest never diminished. She attended her last SI meeting on September 22nd of this year. For those 47 years Dora attended almost every event, whatever it was: she helped to distribute leaflets, sold raffle tickets, collected goods for women victims of domestic violence, had petitions signed, wrote to her MP, held group meetings at her home; she never shied away from difficult or disturbing issues, she always promoted educating, empowering and enabling women. She showed a keen interest in International projects and wrote often to Soroptimists in Australia and the Philippines, sharing ideas and friendship; until about 8 years ago Dora attended the annual UK conferences: she was always keen to learn. Dora supported Midland Chase Region and until very recently she attended the quarterly meetings as well as Charter Dinners for other clubs within the Region. At club level she gave her total support to the President and to all club projects; she was an active participant in all club discussions, putting forward her thoughts and views with care and eloquence. And on top of all this, Dora had a fabulous sense of humour! She could laugh at herself and with others 48
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
and could always be relied upon to tell a few jokes remembered accurately and delivered with panache or tell stories about her many and varied experiences. Club members were treated to some of these stories very recently when, as part of President Lynne’s initiative for all members to learn a little more about each other, she gave a potted history of her own life, having everyone laughing with the story of the train taking her and new husband Jim to London on their honeymoon during WW2 being involved in the blitz! Only Dora would have found so much humour in an event like that. Dora was a positive role model for so many: she loved life, respected all people, had a wonderful sense of humour and an infectious laugh. To say that she will be missed is something of an understatement, but the plus side is that everyone who met her gained something positive and precious from her. Cannock Soroptimists are proud to have known her and that she was a member of their club, she will be remembered with love and gratitude.
Dora Leighton on her 99th birthday, April 3rd 2015
Skin Care Makes Sense ADVANCED AESTHETIC SKIN CARE TREATMENTS. Skin Sense is a small private clinic offering Professional Skin Care and a wide variety of Advanced Aesthetic Skin Care Treatments. Hello my name is Jan, I am a mature skin care therapist and have practiced for some years. I have trained with some of the most professional cosmetic companies and products. I am passionate about skin care and providing a good service and advice.
To help keep it well hydrated and nourished, start at the beginning of September when the weather starts to change. Here at Skin Sense we use professional Dermaquest Skin Therapy Age Management, Collagen Activating Complex, no other product offers you a stem cell treatment that builds and restores collagen to the skin, increasing firmness and elasticity. Leaving you with softer, hydrated skin.
We are all individuals, “our skin is unique and so are we!” Your skin is the largest organ of the body, you can feel it, see it, it’s more than just a wrapper. The skin has seven functions which helps the body in performing its daily task of protection. It helps with secretion to lubricate our skin and hair, it helps keep the body at temperature at 37’c (98.4f), for protection it converts a substance in the sebum to Vitamin D, and this vitamin is called the sunshine vitamin. As we age, so our skin becomes increasingly difficult to maintain, it becomes dry, dehydrated it loses its elasticity and collagen. The winter months, the wind, the cold and not forgetting the central heating all play a part in the dehydration of our skin.
Everyone is individual, Book your free discreet consultation we will cover all your skin concerns.
Dermaquest professional treatments and products. Facial peels, resurfaces, firming enzyme Electrolysis permanent hair removal, mole hair. Medical camouflage creams Advanced cosmetic treatments, Skin tag, Serorrhoeic warts, Common warts, Facial thread veins, Spider naevi blood spots and other treatable skin blemishes.
Professional insurance and membership BABTAC, BASC Data Protection professional membership, registered with the local council.
Dermabrasion Facials The latest Dermaroller, for all skin types & no down time. Professional Ultratone muscle stimulating, non-surgical face lift and body toner. 2 Moat Farm Cottage, Stafford ST17 0RJ T: 07984 125131 E: skincaremakesense@gmail.com 01952 01952321334 321334 | | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 1 49
Wolverhampton Hospice Increases Support available to Patients in their own Homes COMPTON HOSPICE HAVE BEEN PROVIDING PALLIATIVE CARE FOR 33 YEARS
Wolverhampton’s Compton Hospice will expand the support it offers to patients living with incurable illnesses in their own homes. The charity, which has been providing palliative care for 33 years, has recruited seven new Specialist Community Nurses and extended its hours of operation. A total of 20 nurses will now provide support between the hours of 8am and 9.30pm, 7 days a week, due an increased demand for care in the home. Annie Millington, Compton Hospice Community Nursing Team Leader, commented: “At Compton Hospice we recognise that people aren’t just sick between the hours of 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, and so we have expanded the support we offer in order to reach more people with incurable illnesses across Wolverhampton and the Black Country. Compton Hospice is the only adult hospice in the Midlands to offer these extended hours of care.” Mrs Millington added: “Referrals to our home care service are increasing. More and more people are expressing their desire to receive care in the comfort of their own homes, in familiar surroundings and amongst their favourite belongings. We are also seeing an increase of people with more complex illnesses being referred for support.” Compton Hospice Community Nurses provide specialist care which focuses on controlling pain and symptoms, as well as offering advice and support to enable patients to remain comfortable and functional in their own homes. Marie Murphy has been a Community Nurse at Compton Hospice for 11 years and supports patients and their families at what can be an emotional and difficult time. She comments that for many patients the initial thought of being cared for by the hospice can be scary.
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“When people think of the hospice they think ‘am I really that poorly?’. But once I have spoken to them in the comfort of their own home, they realise I’m there to help them and it’s like a huge weight has been lifted off their shoulders.” The Community Nurses are the first point of contact when a new patient is referred to the hospice. The Nurses regularly visit patients’ to discuss and monitor any issues around symptom management, pain control, health, medication and emotional support. One of Marie’s patient’s, 75 year old David Jones who was diagnosed with cancer in September 2013, commented that he initially felt frightened about the prospect of receiving hospice care. “When my doctor told me about the hospice I was frightened. To me, Compton was the end. I may be 75 but I have a lot of living to do. However, I’ve had nothing but help and I cannot praise the hospice enough. I’m not in pain and Marie has made me feel comfortable. She checks I’m taking the right medication and I put my trust in her. I’ve noticed my strength coming back, I managed to get down the stairs for the first time in weeks. My ambition now is to get in my car and start driving again.” The retired Police Officer from Tettenhall added: “I’m doing everything I possibly can with the help of Compton Hospice and I feel like I’m back to normal now. Compton is there to help you and I’ve got complete trust in them. ”
For more information on the work of Compton Hospice visit www.compton-hospice.org.uk or call 0845 2255 497.
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 51
Competition CREWE
LYCEUM THEATRE
Having headlined the 2015 Glastonbudget Festival in May earlier this year (the biggest tribute festival of the year), Totally TINA comes to Crewe on Friday 15th January 2016. Totally TINA is an award-winning tribute to the Queen of Rock and Roll, Tina Turner, being given the “Official UK number one” honour by the Agents Association of Great Britain. Justine has been singing professionally for over 22 years now and has worked extensively in theatres and on national TV, she is also a much sought after session vocalist for some of the biggest record labels in the UK. In her early career she could be seen treading the familiar cabaret scene as a dynamic vocalist and could boast knowing over 5000 songs, becoming a human juke box at venues. But it was in 2002 that her career would change direction. After winning ITV’s “Stars in their Eyes” as Anastacia, her tribute show “Justine is Anastacia” was in great demand and she spent the next 6 years performing as her around the world, enlisting a live band to create more of a show feel. When Anastacia stopped releasing albums and her popularity waned, it was time to change direction again. Having been told on many occasions she really sounded like Tina Turner, Justine set herself the challenge to become the closest copy she could be. But this was going to take some transformation. After hours of scrutinising video footage, watching mannerisms and movements, hand making the allimportant wig, deciding which costumes to copy, listening to patter and hundreds of versions of the same songs from different decades, the band and Justine created Totally TINA. The boys in the band were informed that girls would have to be a big big part of this and surprisingly no one complained! A troupe of professional dancers were hand-picked, choreography based on Tina’s live shows and our own unique creations were created and the whole production was rehearsed, tweaked and rehearsed again. So get ready to Shake your Tailfeathers, with the Queen of Rock and Soul, Live from Nutbush and Simply the Best! Tickets for the CREWE – Lyceum show taking place on Friday 15th January are available from:
TOTALLY TINA Time: 7.30pm Box Office No: 01270 368242 https://crewelyceum.co.uk/Online/ whatson-january2016 52
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
Two lucky winners will each win a pair of tickets to see Totally Tina on Friday 15th January 2016 at Crewe Lyceum. 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 Sunday 3rd January 2016. Winners will be notified by telephone.
Question:
Totally Tina headlined which festival this year? Competition Terms and Conditions Winners to collect tickets from the box office on the night of show. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash alternative prize nights available.
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Christmas with Cannock & District Soroptimists
HELPING COOK AND FUND A CHRISTMAS MEAL WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS Yvonne Simpson, Soroptimist International President, has released the following statement: “The International President’s Appeal traditionally supports the most poor and vulnerable. Women and girls in Nepal need our support to rebuild their lives. Education is the best tool to raise women out of poverty and keep them safe from exploitation. The Soroptimist pledge of “Educate to Lead” will educate, empower and enable women and girls to achieve economic independence and have a future.
al Woman 2015 n o ti a ir sp In se a h C d n Soroptimists will be involved Cannock idla& District M in activities leading up to Christmas which aim at making life a little bit easiercharities for some of for young people and groups those in need. in the Walsall and Aldridge area.
humbled and honoured she felt to have been nominated, especially when she met the other nominees - and said Locally, they will be cooking and helping fundofa the fullcompetition to The to winner that she now felt overwhelmed and Christmas meal with all the trimmingsfind at the Kitchen, theSoup Midland Chase Inspirational quite believe that she had was announced atThrough the in Mill Street; a meal which is enjoyedWoman by over2015 50 people thiscouldn’t December 10th International President’s been chosen for the title. Fiona said Region AGM held itat the ChaseAppeal, Golf who would not otherwise have a hot meal - for some, we will look to work with partners that she could never have realised in onorder to 11 The Clubsmeal in theisRegion had may be the only full meal they get thatClub. week. education opportunities the dayand she leadership was diagnosed with breast for women each nominated a woman who provide they accompanied by crackers, music and smiles andthat is always and girls in Nepal. With the helpasofspecial the Federations, cancer that something as this felt fulfilled title andathe panel very happy occasion - with lots of clean of 5plates! judges reached their decision could happen.we Sheintend told everyone Clubs and Membership, to makethat a significant following presentations held in contribution June. she feelswellbeing very strongly that women to the of women and girls in Nepal.” should have a facility to make them They will alsoInspirational continue their support of the Pathway She is Fiona Ford,Project, nominated by SI Fiona Ford, winner, feel beautiful and looked after at such Woman 2015; SIMC President Carol in particular the refuge for women victims of domestic Newcastle. Fiona’s own experience a difficult time in their lives when they Bailey; Sandra Mellor, SI Newcastle withwith hair their loss following chemotherapy violence - many of the women are there children. are dealing with cancer, chemo and inspired her to set up a bespoke service Members of SI provide gifts for the women and the children, hair loss. She puts her success with for wig fitting in the Stoke area: she now who always appreciate else thought of housed Region President of SIthe fact that someone the salon and the bespoke wig service has a salon called ‘Fresh Hair’ them at Christmas. Midland Chase Carol Bailey she provides down to having lots of in the Royal Hospital, Stoke-on-Trent. initiated a competition help from friends and family - and to Member of SI Newcastle Sandra toSIfind Region’sorganisation, most never taking NO for an answer! Fiona is anthe international which fosters involvement Mellor introduced Fiona again to went on to commend Soroptimists Inspirational Woman. with the women and girls who are victims ofmembers, conflict and Region explaining how she for all the work they do to educate, met education her when looking for natural and asked also those to first access Clubs in thedisaster Region were to wishinghad empower and enable women and girls possible nominate a woman whoEach they year felt on Human and equal rights. Rightsspeakers Day, for club meetings. throughout the world; knowing more She and all club members realised that fulfilled that title and at the quarterly December 10th, clubs and Soroptimists all over the world about the organisation she has learned Fiona was very special; they were so meeting in June, 11 clubs gave raise funds fortothe President’s Appeal. how powerful it is and now hopes impressed by herThis positive attitude and their presentations theInternational Region year the is of Educate To Lead - Nepal. to become a Soroptimist herself. utter determination that they began meeting and appeal to a panel 5 judges. their support of her immediately - and Certainly Soroptimist International The presentations showed what a that has continued throughout the Cannock Soroptimists will and be supporting wealth of wonderful, inspirational will be proud pleased to this by making setting up of her salon and all of the women we have working in the area such an Inspirational donations to welcome the appeal in lieu of sending Christmas cards to additions she has made to it since. of Midland Chase. A number of each other. Woman into their membership. Midland Chase Region President Nominations were for women working Carol Bailey presented Fiona with within the area of sexual and domestic a Royal Brierley Crystal inscribed violence: Lisa Freeman of SARAC (sexual abuse and rape advice centre); bowl and vouchers worth £150 Dickie James, CEO of Staffordshire which she said she hoped would Women’s Aid; Kathy Coe who began be spent ‘entirely frivolously!’ and runs the Pathway Project and In accepting the title, Fiona told Carole Richardson, programme Soroptimists of the Region how coordinator of a Salvation Army refuge for women. Detective Michelle Lane was nominated for her work for Hope If you would like more information about this appeal for Justice and the work she does in or SI Cannock & District projects or membership please the area of illegal trafficking, slavery see www.sigbi.org ; www.facebook.com/SICannock or and prostitution whilst Amanda Bevan phone 07971494510. was nominated for her support of homeless women and families in the Wolverhampton and West Midlands 54 area. STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK is| DECEMBER 2015 Also linked to homelessness the work in Walsall and now in Rwanda undertaken by Yvonne Gough who
Learn to Swim with South Staffordshire’s
Swim Academy Learning how to swim is a crucial life skill and one that everyone regardless of their age should learn to do.
South Staffordshire’s Swim Academy offers local people of all ages the opportunity to learn to swim for health, safety and for fun.
The academy which operates at all four of South Staffordshire’s leisure centres has a lot to offer: • High quality swimming tuition at affordable prices • Lessons from 3yrs up to adults • Beginners and non-swimmers to advanced standards • Good teacher/child ratios • Lessons run throughout the whole year to ensure continual progression • Assistants in the water to aid weaker classes and give additional support for swimmers What else makes us special? • Our swim teachers are professionally trained • We follow the STA’s international Learn to Swim programme – one of the most successful ranges of learn to swim and aquatic courses in the world • Above all, we make learning to swim fun, progressive, inclusive, safe and affordable. This means that everybody is: • Encouraged to enjoy themselves • Motivated to improve • Taught step by step with rewards at every level • Supervised within a safe environment • Given the opportunity to develop all four swimming strokes What’s more, those who enrol get: • Free swimming for those that pay by Direct Debit • Free success tracker • One to one lessons available on request (extra charge)
NEW ENROLMENTS BEING TAKEN FROM 14th DECEMBER FOR ONE WEEK ONLY *Places limited and sold on a first come, first served basis
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FREE Child Swim Pass Voucher valid until 31st December 2015 Terms and Conditions: Voucher offers 1 free swim during a public session - Voucher cannot be redeemed against swimming lessons - Child to parent ratios apply in the water - please contact reception for full details and for swimming times - 1 voucher per person, per offer - Voucher must be presented at reception. Name……………………................................................................... Postcode……………………... Date………....................…………… Leisure Centre…………………......................................................
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2015 Wolverhampton West Magazine November/December 2015
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK wolverhampton west magazine 55
Stepping from one year into the next with a smile CELEBRATION, REFLECTION AND OPTIMISM
The last month of one year and the first month of the next are both filled with celebration, reflection and optimism. December is the month where Christmas is the main focus. The history surrounding Christmas is fascinating. In Roman times the upper classes often celebrated the birthday of Mithra, god of the unconquerable sun, on December 25th. They believed that Mithra, an infant god, was born of a rock. For some, Mithra’s birthday was the most sacred day of the year. In early Christianity, Easter was the main holiday; the birth of Jesus was not celebrated. Julius Caesar instituted a calendar centered round the sun decreeing that one year would consist of three hundred and sixty-five and a quarter days. Unfortunately, despite the introduction of leap years, the Julian calendar overestimated the length of the year by eleven minutes and fifteen seconds. By the sixteenth century the calendar was ten days out. In 1582 Pope Gregory XIII lopped the eleven minutes fifteen seconds off the year and deleted the spare ten days. This new Gregorian calendar was adopted throughout Catholic Europe, however, Protestant Europe kept to the old Julian calendar. This meant that London was a full ten days ahead of Paris. Eventually a Calendar Act was passed in 1751 which stated that in order to bring England into line with the rest of Europe (sound familiar?), the day following September 2nd 1752 was to be called the 14th, rather than the 3rd. Before the calendar was reformed, England celebrated Christmas on the equivalent of the 6th of January by our modern, Gregorian reckoning. That is why in some parts of Great Britain people still call the 6th of January, Old Christmas Day. At The Chase CACI clinic we are celebrating the first year of providing clients with the best that our machines, products and care can provide. During this time, we have met a wonderful, interesting and very loyal group of people. 56
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
January is a time for both reflection and optimism. The Romans dedicated New Year’s Day to Janus, the pagan god of gates, doors, and beginnings, after whom the first month of the year, January, is named. The pagan deity Janus was depicted as having two faces: one looking forward, the other backward, suggesting that celebrations of the new year are pagan traditions. We are all aware that a New Year is celebrated on many different days throughout the World but is might surprise you to know that in the Gwaun Valley, Pembrokeshire, Wales the new year is celebrated on January 13, based on the Julian calendar. At The Chase CACI Clinic we are looking forward to a wonderful 2016 whilst looking back on 2015 and the amazing experience it has been; we can reflect on very satisfying results and positive feedback. It has been an absolute pleasure to meet and help people from such diverse areas and ages. We are very proud of our 90% retention rate for clients but will be looking to improve on that in 2016. Laurels are for winning not resting on! New to our team is Heather Groom RGN, a Nurse with over 30years experience, a friendly personality and a genuine desire to help clients look and feel good. In addition, our new CACI Quantum machine is now fully on stream and producing some incredible results. So whether you are in our Electrolysis Room, Ultimate Room or the Quantum Room a member of our dedicated team will ensure that you get the best possible outcome whilst enjoying our quiet and serene atmosphere. Thank you for your support!
Stafford Community Hub receives Royal approval OFFICIAL OPENING OF VOLUNTARY SECTOR RESOURCE, THE HUB, IN STAFFORD The red carpet was rolled out in Stafford’s community facility The Hub, Eastgate Street for their official opening on Thursday 12th November. His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent officially opened the building in Stafford which houses a wide range of local voluntary sector organisations.
Council and Stafford Borough Council. The official opening was marked by the unveiling of a plaque commemorating the visit. Oliver Wood from New Directions Support, an organisation that provides day opportunities for adults with learning disabilities, presented The Duke with a wooden box that he had made, on behalf of everyone that utilises the building. Jackie Wheeler, Facilities Manager at The Hub was delighted that His Royal Highness had accepted the invitation to open the building.
The HUB, leased by Staffordshire County Council to local infrastructure organisation VAST, offers office space, meeting room hire and a hot desk suite facility at a reduced rate to local voluntary sector organisations operating in the Stafford area. The Duke of Kent’s visit commenced with a tour of the building to meet both the tenants and service users and to find out more about the valuable services they provide to the local community. The Duke then attended a lunch with representatives from the tenants, Staffordshire County
“We are honoured and deighted to have The Duke of Kent opening our building today. We have a number of voluntary organisations housed at The Hub who offer a range of services to support the local community. An official opening of the building by His Royal Highness is the perfect celebration of all they do in the local community.” As tenants of the building, Citizens Advice Staffordshire South West were also part of his visit they were delighted that their main office was included in The Duke’s visit. Volunteers and staff at the charity had the opportunity to meet with The Duke of Kent, talking about their important work in the community and the importance of the Citizens Advice service locally.
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STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
f Attorney’? o r e w o P Why do I need a ‘Lasting Power of Attorney’? g in st a ‘L a d e do I ne
hy W THE ANSWER IS VERY SIMPLE, HAVE YOUR LPA’S PREPARED NOW After a Will, one of the most important documents that all adults should have in place is a Lasting Power of Attorney. These documents, ‘LPAs’, enable you to personally choose who will be authorised to make your decisions should you loose mental capacity. Do not think loss of mental capacity is only a problem for the very elderly perhaps with dementia. It is not an age related problem. Anyone can loose capacity at any age. Sadly all it takes is something as simple as a fall or a car crash, or a stroke. And this can happen to anyone at any age. If you do not have the documents in place and the problem does
occur, then someone, generally, but not always a family member must make application to the Court of Protection for them to be authorised by that court to make your decisions. This process is very long and complex and expensive. It can take up to 9 months and several thousands of pounds in fees. This is a very painful process for a family member to have to undertake on your behalf. And, you may end up with someone you would not have chosen yourself having the legal authority to make your decisions for you. Even worst is the case where the court may have to choose a professional person as attorney, who will then be charging your estate significant fees,
possibly for years, for making your decisions for you. The answer is very simple, have your LPAs prepared now, while you can clearly make your own decisions about who should be the named attorneys. For further information, advice and guidance call Mike Humpherson who is the local Senior Consultant representing Goodwills Legal Services Ltd. A home visit service is provided to take your instructions for your Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney. Contact details: Mike Humpherson T: 0845 678 7010 M: 07771 992717 E: mikejh@globalnet.co.uk W: www.goodwillsmidlands.co.uk
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CANNOCK FRIENDS OF ST GILES ALL WELCOME TO THE ANNUAL LIGHT A LIFE SERVICE The annual Light up a Life service held by St Giles Hospice and the Cannock Friends’ of St Giles at St Luke’s Church in Cannock will be held this year on Sunday 13th December. The service begins at 6.00pm but the Church will be open from 5.15pm. Cannock Friends of St Giles and members of the Rotary and Soroptimist International clubs of Cannock will welcome all those who attend with orders of service and a candle to remember the life of a loved one.
Cannock Friends are delighted that the service will again be enhanced by singers Bel Canto. It is always a most moving service and anyone and everyone who wishes to remember the life of someone will be made most welcome.
There will be a change this year as everything will be contained within the Church. The Book of Remembrance will be in the Lady Chapel and can be viewed before and after the service. Many people have the name of a loved one recorded in the book - this can be arranged via St Giles, the person remembered does not have to have been looked after by the Hospice or any of their outreach services. In previous years the St Giles ‘shop’ and refreshments have been available in the Church Centre - this year these too will be available in the church, following the service. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided by Cannock Friends of St Giles there is no charge for this.
Penn Singers
CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS FROM “AROUND THE WORLD” Penn Singers is a friendly mixed voice choir based in Penn, Wolverhampton. The choir sings a wide range of music from challenging classical pieces to popular music including songs from the shows. We organise five concerts a year, mainly at Penn United Reformed Church. The choir also accepts invitations to perform at other venues. Small groups from within the choir also sing at weddings, funerals and residential homes when invited. This Christmas we are singing at Wightwick Manor as part of their Christmas Festivities.
Our “Voices for Hospices” Concert held in Dudley Town Hall on the 10th October was a great success. We were joined by the full 36 piece Jackfield Brass band, Tenor Russell Painter and compere Doug Parker. The large audience were treated to a fabulous evening of musical entertainment and showed their appreciation generously by giving £840 in the retiring collection. The total amount raised of £6,500 will be shared between Compton Hospice and Mary Stevens Hospice. As a choir we are very fortunate to have Val Sumner as our accompanist and Helen Smith as our Musical Director. Rehearsal evenings are stimulating, demanding and great fun. We rehearse on a Mondays at 7-30 pm at Penn United Reformed Church, Penn Road Wolverhampton. For our Christmas Concerts this Year we are celebrating Christmas from “Around the World” with music from the “Frozen Choral Suite” sung in Ancient Norse! To songs from Australia, South Africa, France as well as traditional wellloved English favourites.
As well as supporting the Hospices, we also aid other charities. This year our charity will be Beacon Centre, Sedgley “making a visible difference for people with sight loss!” 60
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
The popularity of our Christmas Concerts enables us to perform on two nights. Saturday December 5th with Elizabeth McCamphill and Monday December 14th with Jo Welch. We look forward to seeing you.
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SWANSWAY GOES ON CHRISTMAS PATROL CHRISTMAS PRESENT GIVEAWAY FOR DISADVANTAGED CHILDREN Local dealerships, Stafford Audi and Stafford Land Rover, part of the family owned and run motor retail group, Swansway, are on Santa Patrol again. The group which owns and operates the Stafford centres, is repeating its Santa Patrol Christmas present giveaway which was so well received last year. Swansway Group director, David Smyth, explained, “Last year was our first Swansway Santa Patrol, we gave £10,000 of Christmas presents to disadvantaged children in the areas where we operate and as a Dad myself, I have to confess it was something of an eye-opener.
Christmas presents. Just email social@ swanswaygarages. com with your nomination. “If you know of any local children’s groups that you think would benefit, then please email us and nominate them. Together we can help make Christmas a little more magical for hundreds of children in our local area, “added David Smyth.
“There are a lot of kids out there, for whom Christmas isn’t the magical time it should be; sadly more than any of us would imagine and as a family business if we can help make Christmas a little more special for these children, then we will. The Swansway Santa Patrol is our way of giving something back to the local communities where we trade. Smyths Toys, no relation, are supporting us again this year, by adding 10 per cent extra to our £10,000 budget, for which we thank Mark Stead at the Stoke-on-Trent branch”. Stafford Audi and Stafford Land Rover are on patrol, asking you to nominate local charities or groups where children would benefit from Swansway Santa Patrol
MOTORING 62
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STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | DECEMBER 2015
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all Rios, of spec in what spurious I’m doing 72 on72the all irrespective Rios, irrespective ofand specprice, and price, confidence in have what become have become spurious I’m doing onmotorway, the motorway, confidence enjoyenjoy precisely the same safetysafety kit. Which statistics. precisely the same kit. Which statistics. but I’m The The butnot I’mspeeding. not speeding. bykit, theby way. a vehicle that makes good good on on is a lotisofa kit, lot of the way. is a vehicle that makes dashboard display is showing dashboard display is showing Here isHere can becan said theof Rio’s its promises to buyers. And itAnd comes as as The same The same beofsaid the exterior Rio’s exterior its promises to buyers. it comes mpg,mpg, not mph. Yes, Yes, you read that that not mph. you read now demonstrably more more sporting, no surprise, as Kiaas has years been been design; design; now demonstrably sporting, no surprise, Kiaforhas for years correctly: 72 mpg. And it’s still correctly: 72 mpg. And it’s still cultivating with its revised front and a solidareputation for delivering with its revised frontrear andbumpers, rear bumpers, cultivating solid reputation for delivering climbing. climbing. the trim NeverNever beforebefore the goods, in all departments. A brand whatever thechoice. trim choice. the goods, in all departments. A brand whatever this good; its sleek, that’s that’s already famous for itsfor interminable has looked a Rio looked this good; its sleek, already famous its interminablehas a Rio I knowI know what you’re thinking: I mustI be what you’re thinking: must be 7-year7-year Euro-esque lines embody the the warranty and especially popular modern Euro-esque lines embody warranty and especially popular modern takingtaking part inpart some geekygeeky RAC fuel in some RAC fuel whichwhich sees the with fans value-for-money motoring, veryand styleverve and verve sees the withoffans of value-for-money motoring, very style consumption study;study; hyper-miling in a in a Kia is Kia consumption hyper-miling now routine outperform other other today so much more more than an alsomarque now routine outperform is today so much than an also-marque fashion to cause tailbacks longerlonger than than ran and fashion to cause tailbacks more more established brands in sales, year year Rio is Rio perfectly representative established brands in sales, ranthe and the is perfectly representative thosethose inflicted by an by asthmatic pit-pony inflicted an asthmatic pit-pony of this.of this. on year. on year. pullingpulling a gypsy cart, or maybe I’m some a gypsy cart, or maybe I’m some state-sponsored boffinboffin in a simulator in in At theAt state-sponsored in a simulator And inside there’sthere’s a spacious, well- wellheart of theof matter is a little litre And inside a spacious, the heart the matter is a1.1 little 1.1 litre a laboratory in Brussels, churning out out 74 bhp a laboratory in Brussels, churning qualityquality cabin,cabin, that isthat loaded engine that isthat more than than designed, designed, is loaded 74diesel bhp diesel engine is more “official fuel consumption figures.” “official fuel consumption figures.” – like and USB capable of pulling its own beingbeingwith kit with kit –Bluetooth like Bluetooth and USB capable of pulling itsweight, own weight, as it isas both and tractable at lowat low functionality – to keep functionality – to you keepentertained you entertained it iscomposed both composed and tractable But I’m not, (if I was, beI’d be But I’mhonestly not, honestly (if II’d was, you’reyou’re looking good good on theon road, revs, so it never requires a greata great deal ofdeal of while while looking the road, revs, so it never requires opening with the headline-grabbing opening with the headline-grabbing effort effort smugly to yourself; acutely awareaware to keep WhichWhich is, is,smiling smiling smugly to yourself; acutely to pace keep with pacetraffic. with traffic. officialofficial number of 85.6 I am instead number ofmpg), 85.6 mpg), I am instead motoring in comparable of course, great great for driving downdown costs.costs. that you thatare you are motoring in comparable of course, for driving driving in thein real as I normally driving theworld, real world, as I normally Lending at a fraction of theof costs theof the a helping hand hand to thistoend the is thecomfort Lending a helping thisisend comfort at a fraction the of costs do, indo, thein latest incarnation of the Kia the latest incarnation of the Kia Intelligent motorists around you. you. Stop &Stop Go & stop/start system, motorists around Intelligent Go stop/start system,other other Rio. And getting numbers that are Rio.I’m And I’m getting numbers that are whichwhich is standard even on thisonvariant, the the is standard even this variant, tantamount to a motorist’s wet dream. tantamount to a motorist’s wet dream. most affordable The Rio costs it boasts fine fine ‘1’ model. Plus, you The Rio only costs£12,245; only £12,245; it boasts most affordable ‘1’ model. Plus,won’t you won’t have to paytoroad due admirably low low residual values; a wealth of space and and residual values; a wealth of space have paytax road taxtodue to admirably Coming at a time driversdrivers are more Coming at awhen time when are moreemissions practicality in its five-door form; form; a driving of 86g/km. practicality in its five-door a driving emissions of 86g/km. suspicious than ever manufacturers’ suspicious thanof ever of manufacturers’ experience whichwhich is most – the – the experience is rewarding most rewarding claimed fuel consumption figures, claimed fuel consumption figures, steering is direct: the visibility, good:good: Central to its core of democratising steering is direct: the visibility, Central to itsethos core ethos of democratising this particular version of Kia’s this particular version ofrecently Kia’s recently that which the handling, composed. Oh, and the bourgeoisie car car that which the bourgeoisie the handling, composed. Oh,the and the refreshed super-mini – the – Rio 1.1 CRDi refreshed super-mini the Rio 1.1 CRDimanufacturers fuel economy. Did I Did mention the fuel consider premium add-ons fuel economy. I mention the fuel manufacturers consider premium add-ons ‘1’ Eco‘1’–Eco is just needed to restore – iswhat’s just what’s needed to restoreis the is economy? commendable notionnotion that states that that economy? the commendable that states 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK 2 63
2
Yearning for Yaris
BY ROB TAYLOR
THE NEW YARIS IS A FAR SUPERIOR CAR IN EVERY SINGLE WAY
The Toyota Yaris will forever occupy a special place in my heart or, rather more accurately, a very specific V Reg 1 litre Yaris in red with discoloured beige interior and a tricky clutch will. For it was this very vehicle that became my first car and as such represented my freedom, as well as all other attendant privileges within reach of a 17-year-old bloke, hungry for a passport to fun. Many long years have passed since those heady days in 2002 and in that time much change has taken place, to both Toyota’s Yaris and I: today we are both heavier; better dressed; tougher and more resilient to harm; and much more intelligent. Sitting at the console of this latest iteration I am at a loss to make comparison between old and new, so I won’t bother. Look at this Yaris and you’ll see strong styling cues pinched from its younger, trendier brother, the Aygo. The cross-shaped front end with new light clusters sharpen its nose and point to revisions that go far deeper than the average mid-life refresh. At the rear there is a new bumper and diffuser to create a lower, more purposeful stance and to imply improved sporting credentials. Nothing does this better, of course, than adding 1 64
to the trim levels an option entitled ‘Sport’, which is exactly what Toyota has done; or adding a Black and Red colour scheme to the seats, which Toyota has also done. With it comes no improvement in performance – this 1.33 litre 98 bhp petrol four pot will do 0-60mph in 11.7 seconds and is still good for 109 mph – but instead there are plenty of funky add-ons like front and rear LED lights, 16” alloys, privacy glass and a rear spoiler. The overall sense of roominess has improved in the cabin– especially if you spec a panoramic Skyview sunroof – and so too has the quality of the materials employed in making the dashboard. A symphony of ergonomic sense and reason, the Yaris savvily sets out its gauges and displays in most intuitive fashion. The switchgear is well-made and more of the cabin than ever is nice to touch - particularly the Yaris’s classic sculpted central dashboard panel, which has gained thick soft padding and a surface now finished in PVC. There is also wider equipment and colour choice than ever before. Toyota’s user-friendly ‘Touch 2 with Go’ multimedia system is a pleasant companion on every journey; so too is the rear-view camera, whenever you find yourself in a tight spot. In and around the city is where this car really shines with its direct, accurate and light steering allowing you to zip your way through the chaos with only minimal cost to you – since it’ll average 57.6
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2015 2015
mpg and is priced at £14,995 – or the environment: the Yaris emits just 119 g/km of C02. Toyota has modified the Yaris’s platform expressly to improve roadholding, driving pleasure and comfort and anyone familiar with past models will really be able to feel the improvements, especially when it comes to having fun. Although not quite as footloose and fancy free as my first Yaris, this one runs it close. The newly stiffened bodyshell, new rear torsion beam and suspension parts and a new set-up for the electric power steering, when allied to this perky petrol powerplant, makes for an impressive driving package. The Yaris handles itself well on twisty stretches of road, cornering with considerable aplomb for a little hatchback, providing a ride that is well suspended and well judged for UK roads. Equally it’ll cruise with relative composure on motorways without too much cabin noise creeping in; it’s actually quiet enough to think inside, which can’t be said of many B-segment hatchbacks - certainly not my old Yaris of yore. You see, not even the mist of nostalgia can forgive all of the drawbacks of motoring in a different time and place.
The new Yaris is a far superior car in every single way, but I’d still buy back my old one in a heartbeat.
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