TIPSS Content Catalogue February 2018 by Tania Houston

Content Catalogue February 2018

Article Index

And Another Thing... Tom Receives A Proposal II

Baking: Perfect Pancakes

Computer Tip: Speed Boost

Beauty: Winter S.O.S.

Book Reviews: Hidden Gems

Driving: I’m Not Sure I Did the Right Thing

Finance: Alternative Ways to Invest In Property

Gardening: Time to Get Pruning

Health: How To Get A Good Night’s Sleep

History: Forgotten Foods

Home & Interiors: Fabulous Fireplaces

Life Begins: Don’t Leave Your Clutter To The Kids!

The Life List: Time Travel Temptations

Motoring: Honda Civic Type R

Pets: Caring For an Older Dog

Parenting: Making STEM Fun

Recipe: Spiced Bean and Carrot Patties

Quirky Britain: Bog Snorkling

Short Story: Movie Night

Technology: Gadgets Your Beloved Will Love

Travel Feature: Beijing Temple of Heaven

Puzzle Index Cartoon 1 32 Cartoon 2 32 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Page 33 Codeword 34 General Knowledge Crossword 34 Cryptic Crossword 35 Hidato 36 Mini Cryptic Crossword 36 Pictogram 36 Quiz 1: Nicknames

Quiz 2: TV Theme Songs

Simple Crossword 38 Spot the Difference 38 Sudoku - Easy

Sudoku - Hard

Two Minute Trial 40 Word Ladder 40 Wordsearch - Time 41 Wordwheel 41

And Another Thing..

And Another Thing... Tom Receives a Proposal II by Tom Hughes @groomsdaybook

If you recall, Dear Reader, previously on And Another Thing, my old chum and workmate Nigel had been fatally struck by Cupid’s bow and had resolved, for reasons best known only to himself, to make an honest woman of Val, his long term squeeze. Yours truly was appointed best man and was duly tasked with organising the stag do. So, after rejecting Newcastle (too chilly), Amsterdam (too hazy) and New York (too far), Nigel, being a big fan of the Beatles, plumped for Liverpool. And so it came to pass that twelve middle-aged workmates alighted the train at Lime Street and, rucksacks in hand, trudged towards the Adelphi. We were standing in the lobby when Terry (marketing) unzipped his suitcase, pulled out an enormous flesh-coloured rubber suit and presented it to the groom. “Here Nige, the lads want you to wear this.”

Nigel stared at the object for less than a second. “Terry, put that away and don’t be silly.” Now it was my turn. “Here everyone, put these on.” Twelve black t-shirts appeared - “WATCH OUT LADIES - IT’S NIGEL’S STAG!” A few of the guys pulled them on over their shirts, the material straining to cover their considerable girths. Colin, Nigel’s brother (clearly miffed because he wasn’t the best man), objected. “I can’t wear that - it won’t go with these chinos.” “Listen Colin, if you prefer, I can ring Val and see if you can go on the hen do?” Then it was Brian’s (finance) turn to pipe up. Brian was bald, 5’ 3” and wider than he was tall. He squinted through round spectacles. “Tom, do I have to wear one? What if I get chatted up? I won’t be able to look Margaret in the

eye.” Brian blinked as he pushed his mist-covered glasses back up his little nose. “Don’t worry Bri, if I see any strange women approaching you, I’ll be sure to let them know you’re completely off limits. Right, everyone follow me - Liverpool here we come!” And so The Dirty Dozen hit Liverpool’s bars. As I was best man, it was only reasonable that I was in the chair for the first round. “OK, what are we having?” Colin was the first to pipe up. “Err, Tom, can I have a lime and soda?” “No. You can have a Guinness. Ken?” “I’ll have Guinness. And I’ll have Colin’s too if he doesn’t want it.” After a few ales, in order to line the stomach, we repaired to a pre-booked Chinese restaurant. After a gut-busting banquet, it was time to settle up. On

the back of a napkin, Brian totted up one twelfth of the bill. “Right, that’s £31.50 each please.” Colin cleared his throat. “I don’t want to be picky, but I never had the soup, so technically…” Colin’s protestations came to an abrupt end when Big Larry (transport) shoved a banana fritter down the back of Colin’s shirt. As old friends were reacquainted and new friendships made, the laughter grew louder and the hugs became more frequent. By six o’clock, spirits were high. By eight, the atmosphere was convivial. By ten, the conversations were distinctly lachrymose. Colin,

a confirmed teetotaller, was crying into his umpteenth Guinness as he put his arm around my neck. ‘Yer know summat, Tim?” “Tom.” “You know summat Tom? Our Nige, well he, he, loves the very, the very, the very…” “Bones?” Colin stopped mid-stutter and shook his head. Unfortunately, whether it was my skeleton or something else that Nigel adored would forever be unknown, because it was at this point that Colin fell backwards into a potted plant and collapsed into a drunken stupor. Then it hit us - no one had seen

the groom. After a frantic search Nigel was located sitting under a street lamp, toying forlornly with the hem of his t-shirt. Slowly, I eased myself down next to him. “What’s up, old chum?” “Tom, am I doing the right thing?” “Well, I don’t think this pavement is doing much for your piles.” “No, marrying Val. I mean, you love your Sarah, don’t you?” Oh goodness, now it was my turn to start the waterworks. But as for Nigel, well I began to wonder if his toes hadn’t begun to turn ever so slightly chilly...

Cake & Bake

Baking

Perfect Pancakes Whip up a classic pancake batter to celebrate Shrove Tuesday. Simply serve the traditional way with sugar and lemon juice or try one of our extra special sweet or savoury serving ideas. Makes 8 - Ready in 30 minutes plus standing time Ingredients: • 100g plain flour • Pinch of salt • 1 large egg

• 300ml milk (or milk and water mixed) • Sunflower oil or unsalted butter, for frying 1. Sift the flour into a large bowl, add the salt and make a well in the centre. Add the egg and beat with a balloon whisk, gradually drawing in some of the flour. 2. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking all the time and drawing in the rest of the flour, until you have a smooth batter which is about the consistency of single cream. 3. Stand the batter for about 30 minutes to allow the starch grains in the flour to soften and expand –this will give a lighter pancake. If the batter has thickened slightly then just whisk in a splash of milk. 4. Heat a little sunflower oil or a knob of butter in a non-stick shallow frying pan (about 20cm diameter)until almost smoking then quickly ladle in enough of the batter to thinly cover the base of the pan, swirling the pan to give an even layer. 5. Cook for 1-2 minutes until small air bubbles appear in the pancake then flip it over and cook for a further minute until golden. Repeat with the rest of the mixture, serving the pancakes as they are cooked or interleaving with baking paper and keeping warm in a low oven.

SWEET Choc ‘n’ nuts – spread warmed pancakes with chocolate and hazelnut spread then fold into quarters. Drizzle with warmed chocolate sauce and serve with toasted hazelnuts. Orange cream – heat 4tbsp thin-shred marmalade with 150ml orange juice in a frying pan and simmer for a few minutes until syrupy. Fold the pancakes and add to the pan, turning to coat in the syrup. Serve topped with whipped cream or crème fraiche. SAVOURY Cheese and bacon melts – add 2tsp dried Italian herbs to the pancake batter. Fill each cooked pancake with some grated Cheddar and 2 rashers crisply fried smoked bacon rashers. Fold over and pop in a hot oven for 10 minutes until the cheese has melted. Tuna parcels – place a spoonful of canned flaked tuna fish in the centre of each cooked pancake and top with some canned sweetcorn and chopped spring onion. Fold the pancakes to make parcels and enclose the filling. Serve with sweet chilli sauce.

Speed Boost

Computer Tip

If your laptop or desktop computer is getting very slow, you can make it feel like a much newer machine by replacing the hard disk with a solid state drive (SSD). Prices have fallen considerably — you can get a really fast Samsung SSD with 250GB of storage space for less than £90 — and installing them is a pretty simple DIY job you can do in about ten minutes unless it’s an iMac, which is infuriatingly fiddly and best left to your local Apple expert.You can clone your existing drive using an app such as Super Duper on the Mac or EaseUS Todo Backup Free on PC, but always remember: if something on your computer is important to you, make sure you have backup copies just in case.

Beauty

Beauty Winter S.O.S.

by Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

Beauty goodies to see you through the cold spell. If your skin is feeling dry and tight at the moment, a sheet mask could be just the ticket. Look for one with hyaluronic acid, which helps skin to hold on to moisture and fight the signs of ageing. The skin689 Bio-Cellulose Hyaluron Face Mask contains hyaluronic acid, along with coconut extract and an amino acid complex to nourish skin. As with all sheet masks, it’s a little fiddly to use, but feels lovely and refreshing when it’s on and the end results are definitely worth it. Softer, more hydrated skin, in just 20 minutes. And at £5.90, it’s an affordable weekend treat. See www.skin689.com. An American skincare brand has released the world’s first vegan, plant-based topical collagen formula. Algenist’s

Shorter 1 serum is designed to page formandat also replace lost collagen contains Omega-rich avwithailable microalgae oil. As many things, there’s no

long-term gain without short-term pain. In my case this meant that I had to contend with several large pimples breaking out in the first few days of using the serum. However, my skin soon got used to it, and did look plumper, smoother and much more refreshed after just a couple of weeks. All in all, I’m impressed. Genius Liquid Collagen is available from www.SpaceNK.com for £90. Central heating and icy winds don’t just wreak havoc on your skin - they can also leave your hair feeling dry and lacklustre. Faith in Nature’s Seaweed & Citrus Shampoo and Conditioner include natural extracts, such as wild harvested seaweed to ‘feed’ your hair with minerals and antioxidants. As with all Faith in Nature products, they’re free from parabens and harsh

the situation worse, particularly if they contain artificial ingredients, so very gentle. Suitable for all perfumes. Dermalex hair types, they leave your locksskincare feeling is a specialist healthier, smoother and aimed shinier.at£5.35 each range sufferers from www.faithinnature.co.uk. of conditions such as

eczema, psoriasis and Sore, cracked hands can be real pain rosacea. Thea Hand over the colder months. Unfortunately, Irritation Cream can help hand creams withsome dry, cracked skin, can actually itching and othermake signs of the situation worse, irritation. You’ll also want particularly if they contain artificial perfumes. Dermalex is a specialist skincare range aimed at sufferers of conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. The Hand Irritation Cream can help with dry, cracked skin, itching and other signs of irritation. You’ll also want

the winter woollies away for a few months. If you’ve been neglecting to look forunder a gentler hand wash or soap your nails warm that doesn’t sodium lauryl sulphate, gloves, now’scontain the time which drytoyour skin and aggravate skin to treatcan them some conditions. From £12.99, www.dermalex. TLC. Nails Inc Superfood NailKale Base co.uk.is enriched with kale, aloe vera, Coat lemon, ginseng, pomegranate and grape It may be outside, extracts tocold nourish and strengthen your but it won’t be long nails. Use it on its own for a glossy nude beforeorit’sastime to pack finish, a base coat for your favourite the winter woollies away coloured polish. £15, www.nailsinc.com. for a few months. If you’ve been neglecting your nails under warm gloves, now’s the time to treat them to some TLC. Nails Inc Superfood NailKale Base Coat is enriched with kale, aloe vera, lemon, ginseng, pomegranate and grape extracts to nourish and strengthen your nails. Use it on its own for a glossy nude finish, or as a base coat for your favourite coloured polish. £15, www.nailsinc.com.

Hidden Gems

Book Review

We usually focus on new releases for our book reviews, but this time we’ve scoured the back catalogues for a few gems you might have missed. Station Eleven – Emily St. John Mandel From Kirsten – child actor turned travelling thespian – to aspiring doctor Jeevan, the novel tells the individual stories of several people before, during and after a pandemic that wipes out most of the population. Gripping, beautiful and all too plausible, Station Eleven is a must for fans of Margaret Atwood, Erin Morgenstern and Suzanne Collins. Harry Potter series – JK Rowling, illustrated by Jim Kay There can’t be many people who haven’t heard of the boy wizard by now. If you’re a fan, you might want to consider upgrading your paperbacks for the hardbacks illustrated by Jim Kay. One is being released each year, starting with The Philosopher’s Stone in 2015, so the first three are currently available to buy. Kay’s illustrations are superb and incredibly detailed. Prefer e-readers? Check out the Kindle in Motion editions, which animate parts of the illustrations, so you can watch Harry fly through the air in hot pursuit of the golden snitch while you’re reading.

The Mysterious Affair at Cuckoo Song – Frances Hardinge Cuckoo Song was first published in 2014, the year before Frances Hardinge’s Costa Award-winning novel The Lie Tree. Eleven year old Triss wakes up from an accident to find things aren’t as they were. She can’t satisfy her immense hunger for a start; her sister is terrified of her; and even her dolls have turned against her. Is she going mad, or is the truth even more terrifying? A thoroughly enjoyable, fantastical read, Cuckoo Song is sure to prove a hit with fans of Neil Gaiman and Angela Carter. The Crow Road – Iain Banks The Crow Road covers some pretty big themes – love, death, religion, drugs and fractured families being just a few of them. Prentice McHoan returns home for his grandmother’s funeral and soon gets drawn into trying to solve the mystery of his Uncle Rory’s disappearance. It’s a dark, intense novel and far from an easy read, but the wit and sheer beauty of the writing could well make it one of your all-time favourites.

Why Mummy Drinks – Gill Sims Gill Sims is the author of a hugely successful Facebook blog – Peter and Jane’s Mummy. Why Mummy Drinks was released last autumn and quickly became a bestseller. Written in diary format, it tells the story of Ellen, a 39 year old mum of two, who’s trying to balance work and children, while navigating playground politics, irritating in-laws and an ex-boyfriend. The ensuing drama is extremely funny and very relatable if you’re a parent who isn’t quite ready to hang up her dancing shoes. Styles – Agatha Christie If last year’s hit film Murder on the Orient Express has tempted you to dip into the works of Agatha Christie, why not start with her very first novel? Published in 1920 and set during World War I, it introduces readers to the brilliant mind of Belgian refugee Hercule Poirot. The murder of a woman has everyone pointing the finger at one man. It’s down to Poirot to find out the real culprit before it’s too late. While The Mysterious Affair at Styles is not considered Christie’s finest work, there are still plenty of twists and turns to keep you hooked.

I’m Not Sure I Did the Right Thing As I drove through town, it was sitting three cars behind me: an ANPR-equipped police car. I knew had nothing to worry about as I had stuck to the speed limits, and my car and I were both road-legal. So I just clocked it in my rear view mirror as another road user. Approaching the red lights I pulled up next to a driver who was chatting away on their phone. Even though the car was stationary, this is an offence that now carries 6 penalty points, a £200 fine and, if incurred in the first two years of gaining your licence, a disqualification too. (I assume this caveat was added as the statistics show that those aged 18-24 are three times more

likely to commit this offence.) Yet, a survey by Kwik-Fit revealed that an astonishing 43% of those questioned still fail to realise this. More worryingly 17% of those surveyed admitted to texting and 34% to taking calls when driving! It seems the message is slow to get through.

Portrait Half Page Version als o When the driver next to me glanced across, I a v ailablookleand motioned behind me. Their startled dropping of the phone said it all. Whether the

Driving

police saw them on the phone I don’t know as, at that point, the traffic moved off. On reflection I’m not sure I did the right thing - was I a Good Samaritan? Or perhaps I shouldn’t have intervened, let the law take its course and a driver learn a hard lesson that using a mobile phone behind the wheel is illegal. You decide.

By Iain Betson

Finance

By Ann Haldon

Alternative Ways to Invest In Property

Although property remains a popular long-term investment, lending restrictions make it difficult for first-time buyers to secure a foothold on the property ladder. Furthermore, the introduction of a buy-to-let stamp duty surcharge, and reduction of mortgage interest tax relief, have made buy-to-let less lucrative. So are there any other options that could be suitable if you’re interested in property investing? Here are a few alternatives that might appeal, but as with any other form of investment, it’s crucial to carry out plenty of research. Property crowdfunding involves investing in property itself, as opposed to peer-to-peer lending where you invest in the mortgages provided to buyto-let landlords and property developers. So how do these systems work? ProPerty equity crowdfunding Each property is held within its own limited company, known as a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV). You purchase a share of the company and own a small part of the property along with fellow investors. After registering on a property crowdfunding website, you can search for properties of interest and then make the investment online.

• You receive a return on your investment via rental payments and also, potentially, capital gains. • You can spread your investment across a number of different properties. • Fees include a fundraising/ finder’s fee, along with property management fees. • A share of the profits is also deducted by the crowdfunding platform at the end of each investment term. is it right for you? If you want a ‘hands-off’ property investment, equity crowdfunding could be a good choice - it’s a quick and easy way to invest, but you must do your research beforehand. There’s no need for a large deposit, no landlord responsibilities, and no exposure to the risk of interest rate changes. Drawbacks include a lack of control over practical aspects such as setting the rent, choosing tenants and property maintenance. Peer-to-Peer lending Rather than investing in the property itself, you and other investors provide the money for loans and mortgages that buyto-let landlords and property developers use. • Return on investment comes from interest paid on the loan. • Platforms provide details of any payment default by borrowers, so you can make a more informed decision on where to invest. • Investments may be made over a shorter term than property crowdfunding, which is important if you don’t want

to tie up your money for too long. is it right for you? You don’t have to consider capital gains tax liabilities with this option, and although the risks can be increased if you’re lending to developers rather than buy-to-let landlords, the rewards are also potentially higher.

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ProPerty funds You can invest in commercial property via unit trusts or openended investment companies (OEICs), but you should seek professional advice on the best investments for your particular circumstances. Your money is combined with that of other investors and fund managers decide on the best investments. These could be solely in the UK or internationally, depending on the property fund you’ve chosen, and may be in retail, office or industrial property. • You’ll pay a fee for the fund to be managed. • Capital gains tax and tax on dividends received will need to be taken into account. • You may be able to hold a property fund within a stocks and shares ISA. • You can either pay a monthly amount or a one-off investment sum. is it right for you? You may receive an income from rental payments, as well as a return from the capital growth. Leases on commercial premises in the UK are generally much longer than on residential properties, potentially offering a more

secure investment over the long-term. You won’t be able to access your money quickly, however, should you need it. The concept of small investments spread over a diverse property or loan portfolio runs through these options, but what if you do want to purchase an entire property rather than use these ‘handsoff’ alternatives? furnished holiday lets Buying a property as a furnished holiday let avoids some of the drawbacks of buy-to-let investment. It offers specific tax advantages and can bring a higher overall return than buy-to-let. Holiday let mortgage providers generally require a deposit of 25%-40%. The amount they’ll lend depends on the existing rental income, or the income as estimated by an experienced local holiday letting agent.

To be classed as a furnished holiday let, you need to: • Make the property available for a minimum of 210 days a year. • Let it out for at least 105 days annually, for periods of less than 31 days. is it right for you? Furnished holiday lets haven’t been affected by the clampdown on tax relief faced by buy-to-let investors. Although they require more work in terms of regular marketing, they’ve become a popular way to earn money from property. You can use the services of a holiday lettings agency to market and manage your property if necessary - they’re likely to charge a percentage of each booking, plus fixed costs for other services such as cleaning and laundry at changeover times.

www.gov.uk/government/ publications/restrictingfinance-cost-relief-forindividual-landlords/ restricting-finance-cost-relieffor-individual-landlords www.thetimes.co.uk/article/buyto-let-tax-perks-are-on-the-wayout-but-landlords-dont-have-tobe-28r2qdjrd www.moneywise.co.uk/ first-time-investor/investing/ how-to-be-property-investoralternative-ways-to-investproperty www.yourmoney.com/investing/ three-alternative-ways-investproperty/ www.zoopla.co.uk/invest/ guides/property-investment/ how-to-invest-in-propertywithout-buying-a-house/ #dskrb27ElShzavC2.97 www.which.co.uk/money/ investing/how-investingworks/guides/asset-classesexplained/commercial-propertyinvestment-explained

Time to Get Pruning

Gardening

by Pippa Greenwood At this time of year the weather is often perfect for pruning and cutting back woody plants, and there’s a good chance that there are many pruning jobs that have built up over the last year and could benefit from your attention now - so take advantage of the fact that deciduous trees, shrubs, hedges and climbers are now devoid of leaves and get stuck in. Here’s how to make sure your pruning will really benefit your plants: • If you have a relatively small expanse of hedge or are looking to roughly reshape a shrub, a good, sharp pair of shears should do the job. Make sure they are well-oiled so that the blades move smoothly and then angle the blades to make a level trimmed surface. When you are cutting along the top of a hedge you may want to use a guide line so that you make a neat and level surface - a taut string will do. For large hedges consider using a powered hedge cutter or hedge trimmer, but make sure you are happy with the weight of

the machine and can use it safely! • When the pruning of shrubs and trees includes the removal of stems at various heights and of varying thicknesses, it is worth using some ‘loppers’. These are available in various handle lengths, while some even have telescopic handles so that you can reach up higher without having to use a ladder or platform. They are much better at cutting through relatively thick stems than shears or secateurs and yet also allow for accurate positioning of the cut. If you are having to cut back branches above your head it is worth wearing some protective headgear, as well as goggles to protect your eyes from falling debris. • Everybody with even just a single shrub in their garden needs a pair of secateurs and the better the quality, the better the job you can do. Secateurs can be used for the most precise pruning of smaller woody stems. Provided they are good and sharp, you can make a perfectly clean and

Shorter 1 page format also available

accurate cut. Always cut to an outward-facing bud (so that the new growth produced from that bud grows outwards). Secateurs are good for removing dead and dying stems as well as for formative pruning (where you are helping to ensure the plant grows in the direction you want it to), and for pruning to encourage flowering. If you are pruning out dead and dying material, bin it or burn it in case it carries infection. • When it comes to pruning out or tidying up larger branches on trees and shrubs then a proper pruning saw is what you need. If you choose one with one or (better still) two lines of teeth you can produce a very accurate and clean cut with relatively little effort. If you have fruit trees to prune then this is the perfect tool for the job. Use a sawing action for best results and again, if cutting above your head, wear protective headgear and goggles to protect your eyes. Make the pruning cut a few millimetres from the main stem to which the branch you are removing

is joined. A cut like this will heal over much more quickly and the wound will be smaller and less prone to fungal rotting.

trees are pruned in the summer months, so don’t prune them now unless there is no alternative and you are sure you are prepared to take the risk.

• Before you get carried away, check the best pruning time for the plants you have in mind. Most hedges and many shrubs can be cut back now, but if you are after a good display of flowers make sure that you prune at the correct time or else you may end up pruning out the plant’s potential.

• Always make sure that pruning tools are really sharp. If they are in the slightest bit blunt then the job will not only take a lot more effort from you, but may also end up with the plant being damaged, as the cut made will be jagged or stems may be crushed.

• Some trees - mainly those in the Prunus family such as cherries, plums, apricots, damsons, peaches and nectarines - are very prone to a potentially fatal fungal infection known as ‘silver leaf’. This is less likely to cause problems if these

• Create sloping cuts whenever you can so that rain and moisture runs off and does not accumulate (wetness encourages wood rotting), and cut close to but not on top of a bud as this will allow new growth without dieback. When you

are using shears or largescale trimmers you cannot do this, so always use secateurs, loppers or a saw. • Stand back from time to time when you are pruning and see what the overall appearance of the plant is like, and just where you are best off removing the next bit - if you are close up it is harder to see how your pruning is affecting the overall shape of the plant. Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com and you’ll find some great gardening things: ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ (where you receive your chosen garden-ready vegetable plants in the spring accompanied by weekly advice and tips from Pippa) plus Nemaslug, bio-controls, gardening tools, raised bed kits, Grower Frames, signed books and more!

Health

By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk

How To Get A Good Night’s Sleep

• • • • A poor night’s sleep might seem like just an inconvenience. But research has shown that insufficient or poor-quality sleep can contribute to serious health problems, including: • Weight gain and obesity. • Weakened immunity. • Increased risk of diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, heart attack and stroke. • Reduced fertility and libido. • Reduced memory, concentration and reaction times. • Increased risk of depression, anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations and psychotic episodes. This means it’s vital that we all get enough good quality sleep, which usually means at least seven hours. However, it’s not always easy. The enemies of sleep • Burning the candle at both ends, trying to fit in relaxation and domestic duties. • Sleep disorders: night terrors, sleep walking, sleep talking, sleep paralysis, teeth grinding, restless limb syndrome and sleep apnoea. • Needing the toilet. • Pain e.g. from arthritis. • An uncomfortable mattress or pillow. • Menstruation (pain, heavy bleeding and hormonal

changes that affect temperature and production of the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin). Snoring. Blue light. Smoking and alcohol. GORD (Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease) or LPR (laryngopharyngeal or ‘silent’ reflux, in which stomach acid can damage airways, causing asthma-like symptoms)

Ten Tips To help You sleep: 1. Stop snoring. Maintaining a healthy weight can help. Try sleeping on your side, nasal strips, sprays or mandibular adjustment devices. If these don’t work, consult your doctor, as you may be receiving a reduced oxygen supply at night. 2. Don’t go to bed hungry - but don’t eat late. Don’t eat less than two hours before bedtime. If you’re hungry in the evenings, choose something light and easily digestible. Milk can make you feel full and its tryptophan can help sleep, but it’s absorbed poorly (a carbohydrate-rich snack at the same time may help). 3. Stop smoking and eliminate evening alcohol and caffeine. Caffeine is a stimulant and both nicotine and alcohol affect our sleep length and quality. All three can contribute to GORD and LPR. 4. Look after your body and its clock. Our bodies need exercise and daylight during the day and a more relaxed, dim environment in the evening to trigger our body

clock regulation hormones. 5. Avoid blue light two hours before bedtime. Blue light, produced by modern TVs, tablets, computers and mobiles, interferes with melatonin production. While blue light filters help, most just reduce, rather than eliminate, blue light. 6. Declutter your brain. Try writing down your worries and to-do lists before bedtime. It can be therapeutic in itself, and relieves the stress of trying to remember everything. 7. Have a night-time routine. Choose relaxing activities like reading in the hour or two before bedtime. Try having a warm (not hot) bath with relaxing aromatherapy oils. 8. Make your bedroom a haven. Avoid using your bedroom as a work space or dumping ground for clutter. Keep your bedroom well ventilated, not too hot or cold, and softly lit. Try blackout blinds - and earplugs if you have noisy housemates or neighbours. Invest in a comfortable, supportive mattress and pillows. 9. Don’t lie there worrying about not sleeping. Instead, get up and do something relaxing, such as reading a magazine or doing a jigsaw, until you feel sleepy. 10. Finally, see your doctor if you have problems with hormonal changes, night time urination, mental health, GORD, LPR or pain – or if these tips don’t work. Your GP can investigate possible causes and recommend helpful treatments and lifestyle changes.

longer 1½ page format also available

History Forgotten Foods

By Catherine Rose

cut in half and sewn to the rump of a piglet. This was then stuffed and spit-roasted before being ‘gilded’ using egg yolk, saffron and (edible) gold leaf!

In the era of supermarkets, ready meals and worldwide food imports, this month we look at some of the more unusual British dishes that were once common but have now disappeared from our everyday tables. There is no doubt that although many of our staples have remained, the dishes we eat daily have changed drastically over the centuries. Who would now enjoy a bowl of garum? Yet this fermented fish soup was a favourite of the Romans. We tend to think of the medieval era as being typified by banquets overflowing with roast meat and washed down with endless tankards of mead. In fact, there were many cookery books kept at this time and dishes were often surprisingly complex, served with a great deal of visual wit. Take for example the cockentryce. A capon, or castrated cockerel, was boiled,

History

In those days if you were offered custarde, you wouldn’t have poured it over your apple pie. Custarde was a type of 15th century quiche made with eggs, veal and prunes. Medieval foodies loved to combine fruit with their meat in dishes like fish sausage, made from a mixture of fish, currants, cloves, mace and salt. Puddings were equally creative with wonderfully poetic names such as ‘a dish of snow’ - a concoction of whipped egg whites and apple purée, and ‘eggs in moonlight’ - eggs poached in rose water and sugar to resemble moons. Some dishes would probably not be considered palatable today. For example, in the 1700s, cows’ udder would be eaten either roasted or boiled with spices and served cold, and Richard Bradley’s The Country Housewife and Lady’s Director in the Management of a House and the Delights and Profits of a Farm (1736) contains a recipe for boiled vipers. In rural areas, both badger and hedgehog were considered a delicacy. Bradley’s cookery book has instructions on how to prepare badger by cutting off its ‘gammons’ (hind legs),

stripping them and then soaking them in brine for a week to ten days, after which they should be boiled for four or five hours and finally roasted.

longer 1½ page fThe orhedgehog mat awaslsaoRomany favourite would have avaiand l b lein midbeen widelyaeaten

Bedfordshire where there was once a thriving Romany gypsy population. The hedgehog would be caught, packed in clay and baked on the open fire. Once the clay had hardened it was broken away, which took the skin and spines with it, to uncover a meat said to look and taste like roast pork (hence the ‘hog’ perhaps). Beestings (or beastings) pudding was another rural dish. A milk pudding, it was made at home from the rich colostrum of a cow that had recently given birth. The Victorians were adept at using every part of a slaughtered animal for food, from the brains to the hooves. Calves’ ears would be shaved, boiled and fried; offal used to make various patés; and calves’ feet boiled to extract the natural gelatine. We could probably learn a lot from the Victorians in managing our food wastage today. Perhaps future generations will look back on our love of Super Noodles and tinned baked beans with both horror and amusement.

Home Interiors

Home & Interiors Shorter 1 winter It’s time to put another log on the fire, get cosy and snuggle up until pagiseover. Our ideas will help ensure your fireplace looks as good as it makes you formatfeel. also Refresh your fireplace, and the avail able Improve your wall around it, with carefully Fabulous Fireplaces

fIresIde décor

• The fireplace wall is often the focal point of the room, and can look amazing when treated as a feature wall, using either striking wallpaper or a paint colour that contrasts with, yet also complements, the colours used in the rest of the room. • Fireplace accessories can be quite distinctive and are usually on display, so choose pieces, whether contemporary or traditional, that co-ordinate both with your room as a whole and with each other. • Above the fireplace, add either a work of art or a mirror that is proportionate to the space. A mirror is very useful for reflecting light around the room, but don’t feel it has to be a traditional overmantel – something more contemporary may fit better with your style. • Think about what is displayed on your mantelpiece. Photographs, candles, small ornaments and vases of flowers, collections… anything goes provided it fits. A formal, symmetrical arrangement is easy to achieve and suits a traditional room, or else something more freeform can be eye-catching and intriguing. • Not using your fireplace? It can still be a great feature. Stack logs within it, prop up a framed picture, display a large ornament such as a shell, a piece of coral or antlers, set up a group of candles, or simply use the space for a display of flowers in a simple vase.

By Katherine Sorrell

chosen wallpaper or a fresh coat of paint. Walls: Dimpse No.277 Estate Emulsion, £43.50 for 2.5l; woodwork: Wevet No.273 Estate Eggshell, £24 for 750ml; fireplace: Mole’s Breath No.276 Estate Eggshell, £24 for 750ml; all Farrow & Ball.

Every ‘real’ fire needs a tool set. In wrought iron with an antiqued finish, this trio of poker, fork and grabbers will help you get the flames going on a chilly evening. Fireside tool set, £44.50, Garden Trading. Perfect for kindling or newspapers, this hand-made leather bucket is made in a family co-operative in Rajasthan using natural dyes. It costs £89.95 from Decorator’s Notebook.

Sturdy yet easily portable, this Scandinavian-designed fire screen is both smart and practical. Garden Trading Jutland fire screen in steel, £75, Black By Design. A reindeer hide is just the thing for throwing down in front of the fire. This extra-large one is a natural by-product of the meat industries in Finland and Norway, and costs £170 from The French Bedroom Company.

Every open fire deserves a chestnut roaster, and this one has been hand forged from mild steel with a traditional rat’s tail, £44, Moore Designs.

The right mirror – whatever style you like, from glamorous to minimal, elegant to industrial – can turn an average fireplace into a stunning one. Solis spiked sunburst mirror, £62, Audenza.

In a country cottage or a traditional townhouse, an old-fashioned basket is just the thing for storing logs beside the fire. Rustic log basket, £55, The Farthing.

If a rustic log basket isn’t your look, consider a minimal metal holder instead. Lodge round log carrier in steel, £57, Garden Trading.

Life Begins

Don’t Leave Your Clutter To The Kids! by Kate McLelland

If you have children, you’ve probably thought about what you might leave them when you die. Maybe your home, if you are lucky enough to own a property? Some money? Or perhaps there are much-loved family heirlooms that you’ve planned to share out between them? Most of us are happy to make a will, setting out how we will dispose of these assets, but not enough of us stop to consider what will happen to the rest of our possessions: the bits and pieces we accumulate throughout our lives. Every item, including furniture, clothes, ornaments, framed pictures, souvenirs, books and papers – not to mention boxes of stuff that you’ve been meaning to sort out for years – will need to be picked over and subsequently sold, given away or discarded. Almost inevitably it will be your children who are left to scale this mountain of possessions. As well as organising your funeral and dealing with all the legal and administrative tasks that accompany a death, they will have to spend hours at your property, emptying the contents of cupboards and drawers into black plastic sacks.

Whose responsibility is it anyway? When a person dies, a grant of probate is needed for the executor of the will to act on important financial matters, but there is no official framework in place to handle the disposal of household items and possessions – legally known as ‘chattels’ or ‘fittings’. While chattels may have little monetary value, they can nevertheless hold great significance for family members on an emotional level. If two or more family members can’t agree what to do with mum or dad’s possessions, it may lead to arguments and even to the break up of relationships. How can I cut my clutter? While it’s unreasonable to expect older people to clear out possessions that they still need and value, over time we all accumulate items that we seldom use, or even look at. If that applies to you, start by working systematically through cupboards and drawers, making three piles – things you want to keep, things you can recycle or give to a charity shop, and items you can throw away. Check through your clothes, eliminating anything that

longer 1½ pa e hasn’t been worn in g the past twofyears: you haven’t put it ormif a t aoflstime, o on within that period it’s unlikely you’ll ever wear it a v a ilable again. Do an audit of your furniture. Once you’ve managed to sort through your possessions, you may find that some cupboards and drawers are now half empty. If so, think about combining your remaining possessions in one place so you can eliminate at least one piece of furniture. One way to avoid arguments after your death is to call the family together to discuss how they would like to divide up the pieces that they value. You don’t have to give those things away now – just agree who will receive each item, encouraging family members to take a photo of the pieces they will take when the time comes. As you grow older you may need mobility aids to get around, so you’ll be glad of the extra space you have created through your de-cluttering efforts. You can also be reassured that by taking time to sort through your possessions now, you’ll be saving your family a lot of time, effort and heartache in future.

The Life List Time Travel Temptations When it comes to the most highly-prized magical powers, the top three are usually flight, teleporting and invisibility. But how about time-travelling? Here are some oh-so-practical reasons for turning TARDIS! Revisit your childhood to take better care of your teeth. By gum, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an adventure. Invest in a little-known company called Microsoft. Find your house keys from two days ago. If you can remember when you lost them! Do some antique shopping on the quiet - take a trip to France to meet Mr van Gogh and snap up some bargains. See the family you never knew, or those you did

but before you knew them.

Portrait See England win the World live - probably HaCup, lf P age a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Vsounds Listen to the forgotten of electric milk ersion aland so floats, the rag and bone man, birdsong, common courtesy. available See the Great Wall foundations of China, solve

Go back to a simpler time of no motorways, real coffee houses and Sunday closing.

Life List

the mystery of the pyramids and find out what really happened to the Templarsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; treasure.

Befriend great writers of the past and see how many cameos you can get in their works. Prevent catastrophes such as the crazy frog ringtone, space boppers, the pet rock, clackers, and the removal of grammar from the school curriculum. Of course, time travellers may have been amongst us for centuries and are even now doing their best to protect the environment, stop wars and reduce the prevalence of Reality TV shows. We can only hope.

By Derek Thompson www.alongthewritelines.blogspot.co.uk

Honda Civic Type R

Motoring

by James Baggot

In the look-at-me stakes, Honda’s new Civic Type R screams attention-seeker with its trying-too-hard fins, wings and ice-white paintwork. Honda appears to have added needless frippery to its new Type R, though they’ll tell you it’s about aerodynamics and downforce – but does that really matter on the A34? Inside, it’s much more traditional Honda formula. It’s a combination of harder plastics, an infotainment system that isn’t up to the standards of rivals and a seating position you’ll either love or hate. However, this is a machine that’s utterly fabulous on the road. Fast, grippy and with a gearbox that delights, it’s a hot hatch to take the fight to the very best in its class. The large, winged bucket seats are comfortable, and the driving position suits us. When started, the cackle from the exhaust sounds exactly how every hot hatch should. Moving off on smooth asphalt, the Type R feels well set up. The ride is firm but a small amount of jostling is part and parcel of a hot hatch – particularly a fast Honda. Though the Civic Type R feels quick, the real surprise is just how much speed you can carry through corners. The body is

longer 1½ page forEverything mat aabout lsoitthefeelswidealive, The turn-in is quick, but the particularly along open limited-slip differential means av sections of the A4059 north a ilabThe leshort, notchyof that you can fire the R into Penderyn. 38 per cent stiffer than the car it replaces, and this added rigidity makes itself known almost everywhere.

Despite some scrabble from the front tyres on soaked tarmac, the Civic continues to impress.

bends and it’ll just grip. The experience is helped by the car’s seating position, which is now 50mm lower than the older model and completely transforms the entire drive.

six-speed manual is a joy to use, while the characterful engine provides more than enough shove to keep things interesting. Put simply, it’s a far more involving car to drive than you’d expect.

There’s next to no body roll, and the front two wheels cope admirably with the 316bhp being sent through them. You won’t torque steer either – the steering stays unaffected even when accelerating hard, and this gives you a huge amount of confidence. Arguably, the test location played into the hands of the Type R – the green, rolling hills and mountains of south Wales coupled with tight, technical roads contributed heavily to the hot hatch experience. It’s a match made in driving heaven. However, the Type R has always been slightly tarred by that ‘boy racer’ brush. But this car has real character, something lacking in quite a few others on sale today. Even the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine has its own personality, popping and growling as you push it through the bends. In the rain, the R got better.

On these roads, the Type R seems perfect. Yes, the interior foibles could make it a difficult one to live with day-to-day and you’ll have to get used to the strange looks from passers-by, but on Welsh A-roads when the sun is (occasionally) shining, there are few cars quite like it.

The knowledge

Model: Honda Civic Type R Model as tested: Honda Civic Type R GT Base price: £32,995 Price as tested: £33,520 engine tested: 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol Power (bhp): 316bhp Torque (nm): 400 Max speed (mph): 169 0-60mph: 5.5 MPg: 36.7 emissions (g/km): 176

Caring For an Older Dog When your dog ages, it begins to slow down and generally puts on weight. It may struggle with arthritis, making it difficult to move around with ease, particularly during the colder months. So what can you do to alleviate the symptoms of old age for your dog? Here are a few ideas that could put the spring back in their step. Glucosamine and chondroitin Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements can aid movement by protecting your dog’s cartilage, lubricating their joints, and easing the pain

PETS

of arthritis. It may take a while to get into their system, so it needs to be taken regularly. Individual needs vary, however, so speak to your vet, as they’ll be able to tell you the recommended dosage for your pet. Check their diet A dog’s nutritional needs change as they age, and you may find that as they become less active, the requirement for protein reduces. If your dog doesn’t want to eat one large meal a day, you could try offering them two or three smaller meals – this might ease their digestion, and make them more comfortable at night. Keep exercising Even though they’re slowing down, it’s important to exercise

Pets

regularly. This may mean having shorter, more frequent walks, rather than one long outing every day. Your pet will benefit from the fresh air and exercise, whatever the distance you walk. Caring for an older dog isn’t difficult. You just need to adjust the routine to account for their changing needs – much like us humans. www.petplan.co.uk/pet-information/dog/ advice/arthritis/ www.willows.uk.net/general-practiceservice/looking-after-your-pet/looking-afteryour-dog/looking-after-your-senior-dog www.yourdog.co.uk/Dog-Health-andCare/caring-for-an-older-dog.html www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/ dogs/health/seniordogs

Portrait Half Page Version als o available

By Ann Haldon

Making STEM Fun

Parenting

by Kate Duggan kateduggan.co.uk STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) are the fastest growing industries in the world. Even if your child doesn’t fancy a career in STEM, they will need to use elements of it throughout their working life. According to The National Science Foundation, “To succeed in this new information-based and highly technological society, students need to develop their capabilities in STEM to levels much beyond what was considered acceptable in the past.” So how can you help your child to develop a real enjoyment for STEM? Science There are lots of children’s science sets available to buy, but you don’t actually need any fancy equipment to conduct simple experiments at home, such as: • Asking your child to add a few drops of oil to a glass of water. Discuss what they think will happen. Will the oil and water mix or stay separate? • Finding four old, dull two pence coins. Soak each one in a different liquid (water, coke, vinegar and lemon juice) for a few minutes to see which liquid cleans the coin the best. Technology Computer programming

now features in the National Curriculum and many schools offer basic coding clubs from Key Stage 2. Paul Lyons, IT Director at Ebuyer.com, explains, “Even if your child has no interest in becoming a software developer, they will benefit from skills such as problem solving and following instructions - which can be applied to other areas. Many parents may not know where to begin, but introducing educational aspects into children’s technology use at home can have a real impact on a child’s ability.” There are lots of resources available to help your child at home. Useful websites include: • scratch.mit.edu, which lets children aged six and up learn the basics of creating games online. • codecombat.com: while this American site is mainly aimed at teachers, you can sign up as a parent or student to access a free short course. • www.codeclub.org.uk, which lists coding clubs for 9-13 year olds across the UK. engineering K’Nex model building sets are a fun way to introduce engineering concepts. The K’Nex Education Introduction to Simple Machines: Levers and Pulleys Set, for example, contains more than 170

pieces, and instructions for building eight mini machines. You can also help your child to make simple structures using household items. Straws and play dough are ideal materials for building model bridges. Or try searching www.instructables.com for instructions on making structures out of lolly sticks or toothpicks. MaThS Kjartan Poskitt, author of Murderous Maths and Ambassador for the National Young Mathematicians’ Awards 2017, says, “I always say that maths is like broccoli. You either like it or you hate it, but you have to have some because it’s good for you. If learning the tables is driving your child mad, what can you do to sauce them up? The secret is to play around with numbers and get to know them. Here are a couple of little facts and tricks to get you started: • If you write out the digits 1 2 3 4, you can turn them into 12 = 3 x 4. You can also do this with 5 6 7 8 because 56 = 7 x 8. • Pick any three consecutive numbers (e.g. 4, 5 and 6). Multiply the smallest by the biggest, and then add one. (So here we get 4 x 6 = 24, then 24 + 1 = 25). The answer is always the same as the middle number squared (5 x 5 = 25).”

Spiced Bean & Carrot Patties Makes 15

Ready in 35 minutes, plus chilling time

Recipe

This is a great recipe for meatfree Monday - or any other day of the week! Harissa paste is a fiery hot blend of spices from North Africa sold near the dried herbs in most large supermarkets. If unavailable, replace with 2 tsp curry paste or sun-dried tomato puree.

Ingredients: •

1 tbsp olive oil

•

1 onion, peeled and chopped

•

2 carrots, peeled and grated

•

1tsp harissa paste

•

400g can cannellini beans, drained

•

400g can red kidney beans, drained

•

3 tbsp freshly chopped mint

•

100g fresh wholemeal breadcrumbs

•

Vegetable oil for shallow frying

•

Salad and herb yoghurt dressing, to serve (see TIP)

Heat the olive oil in a frying pan, add the onion and fry for 5 minutes until softened. Cool for 5 minutes then place in a food processor with the carrots, harissa paste, beans, mint and breadcrumbs. Season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper and process for about 30 seconds until well blended. Shape the mixture into 15 small round patties. Cover and chill for 30 minutes. Shallow fry the patties in hot vegetable oil for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on kitchen paper then serve with salad and dressing. TIP Serve these patties with dark green salad leaves such as baby spinach and watercress with chunks of cooked beetroot. For a quick herb dressing, stir lemon juice and freshly chopped mint into natural yogurt and season to taste.

Bog Snorkling

Quirky Britian

Not your bog-standard kind of sport

Fancy navigating your way along a cold, muddy bog, wearing a snorkel and flippers? If your answer is an emphatic “No!” you may be surprised to hear that there are hundreds of people – not just in Britain, but across the globe – who would be happy to take your place. Bog snorkelling is a slippery, slimy sport popular in the UK, Australia, Ireland and Sweden, and in 2014 the travel publication Lonely Planet included it in a list of the world’s top fifty ‘must do’ activities. Competitors are required to travel two consecutive lengths along a 60 yard (55 metre) trench cut into a peat bog, completing the journey in the shortest possible time. Conventional swimming strokes are not allowed and competitors must rely on flipper power to propel themselves forward. Dressing for the bog Donning goggles, a snorkel and flippers is compulsory, but there are no rules when it comes to the clothes competitors wear. This has resulted in some wonderfully eclectic costumes, with

Shorter by Kate McLelland bog snorkellers appearing 1 pag esnorkelling’, as the sport was invented there in 1976, as sharks and other sea f o rmat following creatures as well as fairies, also a pub conversation between a few locals intent on superheroes and spacemen. a vailabfinding Comic wigs and hats abound le a new tourist attraction. – in fact there’s a prize for the ‘Best Dressed Helmet’ for people taking part in the Triathlon, which combines bog snorkelling with bike riding and running. a prouD history Bog snorkelling’s profile received a boost last year thanks to the BBC’s Oneness campaign, which featured active community groups from across the UK. Amongst the skaters, cavers and bhangra dancers included in the campaign, you may have spotted a small gathering of snorkellers clad in fancy dress, posing on a grassy bank before plunging, fullyclothed, into the water below. Appropriately, this short ‘ident’ was used to flag up the BBC’s comedy and light entertainment shows. It was filmed in Llanwrtyd Wells in Wales, where the World Bog Snorkelling Championships are held in August each year. This sleepy Welsh town lays claim to the title ‘The home of

Llanwrtyd Wells’ ambition to become a national hub for quirky sporting events took another step forward in 2012, with the creation of the World Alternative Games. Although the Games were inspired by the London 2012 Olympics and claim to uphold the ‘Corinthian spirit’ in all their events, the activities on offer at Llanwrtyd Wells are about as far removed from the Olympic programme as it’s possible to get. As well as bog snorkelling, medals are awarded for bathtubbing, belly-flopping, worm charming, wife carrying and husband dragging. Last year’s events even included a category entitled ‘Saving Donald Trump’, which featured an inflatable version of the US president. We are the champions At Llantwrtyd Wells bog snorkelling is open to everyone, young and old, with contestants as young as eight taking part. Last year the

over-fifties section was won by 51-year-old Somerset postman and hockey coach Ian Maclachlan, who was making his bog snorkelling debut.

“I saw it on the TV once and thought it looks great,” Ian told the Somerset News. “I suppose that tells you something about me!” Ian – a former professional hockey player – went on to describe the technique required to successfully navigate through the bog: “The standard approach is to swim a sort of a doggy paddle with the arms, whilst kicking furiously with the legs, and of course to look up once in a while to ensure that you don’t swim into the banks of the bog.” But even Ian’s high fitness levels didn’t prepare him for the experience, which included a water temperature of just 12-

14 degrees. He admitted: “It’s quite a shock to the system, especially near the half way mark, when fatigue sets in.”

the public donated more than £600. The brothers eventually raised over twice that amount.

Joshua and Ben Hughes from the village of Rhosesmore in Flintshire had a special reason for taking part last year. Their father, David, had been diagnosed with terminal cancer and they wanted to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support in recognition of the care he had received.

Although it is a relatively new ‘sport’, bog snorkelling has all the good humour and anarchic energy of other quintessentially British events such as pancake racing, tar barrel racing and cheese rolling, and just like those activities it requires a certain amount of skill and effort to compete successfully.

“As my dad has been so good-humoured throughout, we wanted to do something in good humour for him.” Joshua explained to local media site The Leader. Joshua also ruefully admitted that the success of this fundraising initiative had backfired on him, as he was forced to honour his pledge to swim in a ‘mankini’ if

Bog snorkelling may not be up there with the classic Olympic sports, but it more than makes up for that in terms of the enjoyment it generates, not to mention the good causes it helps through fundraising. You can find out more about bog snorkelling and related events at worldalternativegames. co.uk.

Short Story

Short Story Movie Night “Excuse me, excuse me, terribly sorry.” The lady squeezed down the crowded cinema row towards the vacant seat next to Keith. “Apparently this is my chair,” she said, checking her ticket. “The man at the sales kiosk was very particular that I have to sit where I’m put.” “It’s certainly a packed house tonight,” Keith said to be conversational. “Isn’t it just?” She sat down, arranging her handbag on her knee. “I don’t even know what the film is.” “You don’t?” Keith asked, surprised. “Has it got that nice Clint Eastwood in it?” she asked, twisting round to scan the auditorium. “I loved him in Bridges of Madison County.” “Perhaps he makes a cameo?” Keith said uncertainly. “I take it you don’t go to the pictures very often?” “Now I think about it,” she paused thoughtfully, “that was probably the last time I went.” She frowned. “I don’t like going on my own.” Keith nodded sympathetically. He also didn’t particularly like going to the cinema alone, but it was better than not going at all. Still, he was glad to have a bit of company for a change. She leaned forward and peered over the rows in front, causing the people behind them to tut. “Is there a problem with your chair? We can swap if you’d prefer?” Keith asked, feeling

chivalrous. “Mine’s got a perfect view of the screen.” “It’s not really the screen that I’m here to see,” she whispered. Keith was surprised. “So what are you here to see?” “My son.” She opened her handbag and took out a packet of lemon sherbets. “He’s here on a date and I thought I’d better come along to keep an eye on him.” Keith raised his eyebrows. “Just in case,” she added, as though this was a perfectly reasonable explanation. “In case of what?” Keith persisted. “You hear all these horror stories about people going on blind dates with people they’ve met online,” she mused, “don’t you?” Keith wasn’t sure he’d heard any horror stories, but he was a bit out of touch with these things. “Your son’s on a first date with someone he met online?” he asked. “That’s all very modern, isn’t it?” “Well, no,” she said, “I believe she’s someone he knows from his running club.” “It’s not a blind date then?” Keith asked. “Well, I’ve never seen what she looks like,” she said, “and besides, you know what these young people are like, anything could go wrong. I’m just here for back up.”

“Ah, young love,” Keith said nodding. “How old is he?” “Thirty six,” she said, and then added quickly, “though he’ll always be my little boy.” Keith understood perfectly. “Still, he could need me.” She untwisted a sweet from its wrapper and popped it in her mouth. “He could lose his car keys.” Just then her mobile phone chirped, causing the people behind them to tut again. She pulled it from her handbag. “See!” She studied the screen and tapped. “I was right! He’s texting me.” “Has he lost his car keys?” Keith asked. “No,” she frowned. “It says, ‘Mum, stop stalking me’.” Keith tried not to laugh. “Anyway, I’m not here to see him, I’m here to watch a movie with my new friend.” She brusquely turned off the phone. “What’s this film all about, anyway?” “I think we’re about to find out,” Keith smiled warmly. It had been a while since he’d made a new friend. “Nice to meet you.” She offered him the bag of lemon sherbets. “I’m Meryl.” “I’m Clint,” he said, and she laughed just as the lights went down. By Jackie Brewster

Technology Technology

GADGETS YOUR BELOVED WILL LOVE How to choose gifts that’ll last much longer than flowers It’s that time of year again: mountains of chocolate and teddy bears in every shop, toobusy restaurants churning out tenuously-themed Valentines meals, awful romantic comedies at the cinema, supermarkets full of really horrible cards and garages licking their lips in anticipation of panicking guys who forgot to place an Interflora order. Why not show your love for your partner by giving them the gift of gadgets instead? Let’s start with the basics: pinkified, prettified versions of ordinary things such as MP3 players or power tools are a no-no unless your partner genuinely loves pink products, and you should steer well clear of anything that could be misinterpreted no matter how clever it may be. Leave the fitness watch (subtext: you’re fat!), the Wi-Fi scales (you’re fat!) and the cordless vacuum cleaner (I don’t think of you in a sexy way any more!) for another day. 1

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get something practical. Quite the opposite: a thoughtful, well chosen present is much better than something useless with a love heart and a teddy bear on it. Think noise cancelling headphones for their travels (£159 for a set of BOSE QuietComfort 2, or £59.95 for in-ear ones that won’t give them headphone hair; other manufacturers such as Sony can be even cheaper) or a nicer case for their laptop. Barbour does a particularly luxurious leather one for £249, but there are plenty of options in all kinds of fabrics ranging from the fashionable to the fully functional. Watch out for fake leather, though: “bonded leather” is synthetic leather, aka pleather. If you’re struggling for ideas it’s always worth looking at their existing gadgets to see if they’re

worth upgrading or replacing. An old Kindle is a great device, but the newest versions have much sharper screens and much better backlighting. The midrange Paperwhite is currently £109.99, rising to £229 for the top-end Oasis, but Amazon discounts Kindles regularly 3 so it pays to plan ahead and try to nab an early bargain. Just be careful if you’re browsing eBay or other sites for used devices: older Paperwhite models don’t have the same hi-res screen as the 2017 model, so read the specifications carefully. If the gadget itself is still current then accessories can be worth considering: for example NotOnTheHighStreet does some lovely leather Kindle cases for around £23, and iPad cases from as little as £13 to £360 for a personalised leather case that comes with power bank, travel adaptor and a Moleskin notebook. If you think that’s expensive, the RRP is even higher: £450. Once again there’s a huge range of products from various manufacturers at all kinds of prices. Of course, there’s another kind of gadget for the one you love: what used to be described euphemistically as “marital aids”. The Amazon of that market is Britain’s LoveHoney.co.uk, which takes a cheerful and down-to-earth approach to a potentially embarrassing subject and provides straightforward advice and reviews from real people. We’re no prudes but we’d offer some well-intentioned advice: don’t order anything if you’re not sure your partner would appreciate the sentiment let alone the product, and maybe leave the most expensive and faintly frightening products for when you’re window shopping together. 1. BOSE QuietComfort headphones 2. Barbour leather laptop bag 3. Amazon kindle oasis 4. Stow Personalised Luxury Leather Travel Tech And Tablet Case

Travel

Beijing Temple of Heaven By Solange Hando All glistening blue and gold, the magnificent Temple of Heaven rises, almost defiantly, in modern Beijing, no longer a place of worship but still recalling the religious faith of the great emperors. It was built in the early 15th century by Emperor Yongle, at the same time as the Forbidden City but much larger to befit a celestial abode. Come the winter solstice, the Emperor, or ‘Son of Heaven’, would venture out of his secluded palace and make his way to the temple in a most splendid procession no commoner was allowed to watch. There he prayed for guidance and good harvests, worshipping Heaven in an ancient tradition which continued to blossom for many more centuries. The complex was extended and protected by inner and outer walls. Step through one of the gates marking the compass points and in the cool oasis of ‘Tiantan’, you are greeted by Chinese gardens, pine woods and over 90 buildings sprinkled like magic among white marble steps and balustrades. Yet nothing here is left to chance as symbolism flows everywhere, from the use of numbers - 9 representing the Emperor, to the choice of shapes - circular

for heaven, square for the earth, or colours - yellow for the Emperor, blue for the sky. The three main groups are on a north-south axis, starting at the very top with the Temple of Prayer for Good Harvests. Topped by a triple-eaved umbrella roof, this is a lovely circular structure, made of wood without nails. It was destroyed by lightning in 1889 but rebuilt in the original Ming style. According to Feng Shui experts, it stands on the spot where Heaven meets Earth. Just east of the hall, the Seven Stars recall the Taishan peaks, also dedicated to Heaven worship. From this norther point, a Sacred Way leads to the second group, the Imperial Vault of Heaven where imperial ancestors were invoked during the winter solstice. The surrounding Echo Wall carried prayers from end to end and even today the slightest whisper will travel around and amaze visitors. To the south, you reach the awesome Circular Mound Altar, a five-metre high marble structure which makes full use of the imperial number, with 81 (9x9) stones on the 9th ring. Balustrades were designed to amplify the sound from the

upper terrace, while in the centre the ‘Heart of Heaven’ is a round slate where animals were offered in sacrifice. After the ceremony, the Emperor would retire to the Palace of Abstinence and fast to complete his mediation between Heaven and Earth. His life depended on it. Only bountiful harvests would ensure continued respect from the Court and common people. Standing by the sacrificial altar in the early morning, before the crowds arrive, it is easy to imagine the majestic imperial procession, the glowing costumes, the Divine Music sending shivers down your spine. But today, no one comes here for prayers or offerings, at least not openly. Visitors compete for the best photo spot while locals relax in the 273 ha public park. There are picnics in the shade, multi-coloured kites pirouetting through the air, opera singers, ballroom dancers and tai chi enthusiasts lost in a world of their own. The 500 year old cypress tree, with ‘9 dragon branches’, doesn’t seem to mind - for this is the world’s largest temple complex for sacrificial offerings to Heaven and in the words of UNESCO, a unique ‘masterpiece of architecture and landscape design.’

Cartoon Panel

Cartoon Strip

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Page

Code Word

CODEWORD Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are shown. As you find the letters enter them in the box below.

4 10

17 20

10 11

16 15

23 11

General Xword

11 14

2 11

15 17

10 14

17 24

25 15

10 4

1 19

5 2

1 4

23 15

15 1

18 3

14 3

General Knowledge Crossword Across 1. Clandestine (13) 7. Scrutinise accounts (5) 8. Machine that inserts metal fasteners into sheets of paper (7) 9. Sphere of vision (7) 10. Condensed but memorable saying (5) 12. Female member of a religious order (3) 14. Strong horse ridden into battle (7) 16. Novel, fresh (3) 20. Transmitting live from a studio (2,3) 21. Kitchen utensil used for spreading (7) 23. Distilled alcoholic beverages (7)

24. Gold block (5) 25. Very high narrow spikes on womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shoes (8,5) Down 1. Shoes with wheels attached (6) 2. Blush, as if with shame (6) 3. Minor actor in crowd scenes (5) 4. Currant bun (7) 5. Container with a long nozzle to apply lubricant to machinery (6) 6. Surface on which pictures can be projected (6) 8. Pathological hardening or thickening of tissue (9) 11. Sticky tree sap (3) 13. Gaelic word

Only f or sub scriber paying s for tw o or more p ostcod es exclus ivity

meaning a mountain peak (3) 15. Brave woman (7) 16. Sounds (6) 17. Large North American deer (6) 18. Small Australian

parakeet (abbr) (6) 19. Port city in western France on the Loire estuary (6) 22. American follower of the Mennonite religion (5)

Cryptic Xword

Cryptic Crossword 1

10 11

13 14

16 17 20

Across 1 Counterfeit first penny, darling (6) 4 A book difficult to support (8) 9 Old flame around opening celebrates (6) 10 Daft male’s red gemstones (8) 12 European raid organised beyond bridge (8) 13 Imagine donkey meeting bird, put another way (6) 15 Lone arrangement for Christmas (4) 16 Cheese lost, nit exploded! (7) 20 Chuck – a man with a flower (7) 21 University set back east (4) 25 Car wrecked by that woman’s missile-launcher (6) 26 A dredger unexpectedly seen (8) 28 Angry witness is going to object (8) 29 A fruit of a circular variety (6) 30 Lacking substance? Never mind (2,6) 31 Norse cast holding large signs up (6)

Down 1 Good pair start renting (8) 2 Great duo made angry (8) 3 Girl last to start a cake (6) 5 Top article about yours truly (4) 6 Ridicule, inside or out (8) 7 Complete tale contents oaf (3-3) 8 Grand item’s altered fate (6) 11 Without tail, swine is not a complete pig! (7) 14 Lid came off, it’s asserted (7) 17 Teams who changed a little (8) 18 Dance – cooler man beat it! (8) 19 Unnecessary and lessened somehow (8) 22 Mother and child bearing fruit (6) 23 Socialite’s first and best shriek (6) 24 Trap arranged by a supporter (6) 27 A stake an alien raised (4)

Solution Across: 1 Phoney, 4 Hardback, 9 Extols, 10 Emeralds, 12 Spaniard, 13 Assume, 15 Noel, 16 Stilton,

Pictograms

Hidato Starting at 1 and finishing at 49, track your way from one square to another, either horizontally, vertically or diagonally, placing consecutive numbers into the empty squares as you go. Some numbers are already given.

Mini Cryptic Xword

LONGITHARD

3 17

36 38

6 words

25 26

/ SEED OF HORSE CHESTNUT

22 27

3 words

10 46

Hidato & Pictogram

13/11/2017 Mini Cryptic Crossword

Hidato.indd 1

www.cute.co.uk www.good-looking.org www.ugly.com www.attractive.net

6:53:01

Across 1. Fruit upset captor, I added (7) 7. Map book finally abridged (5) 8. Deals with the middle man too? (7) 9. Cold dart predictably hollow (5) 11. Good loser at play (5) 12. Quarrel about angler’s last fish (5) 14. A flap father turned in, note (5) 16. Customised ski more annoying (7) 18. Nervous face of first tyke seen out (5) 19. Effort I made to give up (7) Down 1. Pale, like a bird (5) 2. Unending Republican race (3) 3. Fish from Ceylon cut oddly (5) 4. Jobs for first timer on queries (5) 5. Philosopher attached to a military unit 15. Box – it’s in France 13. Robber one put in (7) with heavy lead the frame initially (5) 6. It could be an Aberdonian place in inside (5) 14. Game a childless Berkshire (5) 17. Mostly strange verse person has 10. Sign left on a ship some men took (7) ending poem (3) permitted (5) 12. Say taste transformed (5)

Nicknames 1. On which TV show might you come across people nicknamed the Beast, the Governess, the Dark Destroyer, the Sinnerman and the Vixen? 2. Taken from the small red flower he would draw on his messages, what is the nickname of the literary character of Sir Percy Blakeney? 3. In January 2009, it was revealed that Prince Charles referred to an Asian member of his polo club by what nickname - a nickname that a number of people deemed to be racist? 4. Qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in 2006, which national football team are nicknamed the Soca Warriors? 5. Completed in 2003, the London skyscraper called 30 St Mary Axe is commonly known by what food-related nickname? 6. Which 1997 film has a two-word title that is a nickname for the US government agency called the Justice Prisoner and Alien Transportation System? 7. Which snooker player is nicknamed 00-147? 8. Gripper, Gonch and Zammo were all nicknames of characters in which BBC TV series? 9. In which district of London would you find Aorangi Terrace, a grassed banked area that has been known by a number of different nicknames in recent years? 10. Which blues musician was born McKinley Morganfield in 1913, but took his stage name from a childhood nickname he got given due his habit of playing in a local creek?

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TV Theme Songs

Quiz 1

Quiz 2

Can you name 10 TV shows from the titles of their theme songs, the names of the acts who performed them and the years in which the shows were first broadcast?

1 Half The World Away Oasis (1998)

Only f or sub scriber The Snooker Song Captain Sensible (1991) paying s for tw Gone Up In Flames Morning Runner (2008) o or Yakety Sax Boots Randolph (1955) more p ostcod Unknown Stuntman Lee Majors (1981) es Boss Of Me They Might Be Giants (2000) exclus ivity Songs Of Love The Divine Comedy (1995)

2 Love And Marriage Frank Sinatra (1987)

3 The Liberty Bell John Philip Sousa (1969) 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 This Wheel's On Fire Julie Driscoll and Adrian Edmondon (1992)

Simple Xword

QUICK CROSSWORD

Across

7 Red fruit (6) 8 An agreement (6)

9 Water activity (4) 10 Pieces (8) 11 Non-attendance (7) 13 Slightly inebriated (5) 15 Quarrel (5)

13 14

19 20

17 Brine (7) 20 Holding tightly (8)

21 Pain (4) 22 Customer (6) 23 Soak up (6) Down 1 Spider's trap (6) 2 Tepid (4)

Spot the Difference

3 Neat (7)

14 Line drawing (7)

4 Begin (5)

16 Infrequently (6)

5 Determined (8)

18 Cling to (6)

6 Smells badly (6)

19 Unclean (5)

12 Supplied with (8)

21 Plus (4)

Sudoku Easy

Sudoku Hard

Trial 3 Letters AGE ALB ALE ARE BAG You have two minutes to find all the words of three or more letters that can be made from the BAR letters above. Plurals are allowed, proper nouns BEG are not. The 6 letter word will always be just a BRA normal everyday word. EAR 3 letters: 19 4 letters: 13 5 letters: 9 6 letters: 1 ERA ERG

AR E B G L

Word Ladder

GAB GAL GEL LAB LAG LEA LEG RAG 4 Letters ABLE BALE BARE

BAGEL BARGE BLARE GABLE GLARE LAGER LARGE REGAL 6 Letters GARBLE

Word Ladder

Change one letter at a time (but not the position of any letter) to make a new word - and move from the word at the top of the ladder to the word at the bottom, using the exact number of rungs provided.

S H I P

Here is one possible solution (others may exist) SHIP skip skid said laid lard YARD

BEAR BERG BRAG EARL GALE GARB GEAR GRAB RAGE REAL 5 Letters ABLER

Y A R D

Time April August Decade December February Fortnight Friday Hour January July June March May Month November Past Saturday Second September

Word Search

Sunday Thursday Tuesday Wednesday Week Year

Find the words associated with time in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase

WORDWHEEL

Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must be of three letters or more, all must contain the central letter and letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one word that uses all of the letters in the wheel.

Word Wheel

TARGET Excellent: 19 or more words Good: 16 words Fair: 14 words

M P

I T

L LIMPET