In and Around Magazine Jan19 by In and Around Magazine

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ISSUE 168 - JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

More than just a kitchen and bathroom supplier...

Visit our showroom and be inspired... our kitchen and bathroom experts are on hand to help turn your design dreams into reality. MKM TELFORD

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HEALTH & FITNESS

6 8 10 11 12

Tech for the New You Soft Tissue Injuries Child Mental Health: is it in crisis in Shropshire? How to Keep your Pets Warm this Winter The Easy Way to Get Fit and Healthy for 2019

BEAUTY & FASHION

16 The Best of the Best 22 Winter Saviours

FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT

28 Get on Trend with a Home Bar 30 Recipe: Lemon Pot Puddings

CHILDREN, EDUCATION & ACTIVITIES

32 Ditching the 9-5: Flexible Working 36 Parental Stress

PROPERTY

40 Rise in First-time Buyers Good News 40 The Importance of Floor Plans 42 Buying a house? Don’t get emotionally attached! 46 Save Our Shropshire GreenBelt 48 Small Space? No Problem

Welcome to the latest edition of ‘In and Around’. Your LOCAL magazine, helping you to find businesses and services in and around your area.

COMMUNITY & WHAT’S ON

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HOME IMPROVEMENTS & SERVICES

68 Displaying Art 72 Cupid Loves Tech 76 Changing Face of TV 78 Going Freelance 80 Are Ageing Lines a Good Thing

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MOTORS & LEISURE

60 The Most Effective Drug Ever? 64 Spot the Pension Scammers 66 Love and Heartbreak

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GARDENS & OUTDOORS

How to Get the Best Deal on Your Car Insurance Be Prepared in Winter The Top 10 of Motoring

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This magazine has helped many local businesses to grow by building their awareness with local people, if you have your own business and would like a little help to find more local customers then please get in touch to see what we can do for your business.

HOME INTERIORS

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Fleur Abel

I would like wish all my advertisers and readers a very happy New Year!! Thank you for your continued support!

50 Modern Velvet

52 Winter Colours 54 Remarkable Raspberries

DIRECTOR

Precision Colour Printing Ltd, Haldane, Halesfield 1, Telford, Shropshire TF7 4QQ We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in In and Around 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. 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. Any reproduction of any material is forbidden without the written consent of the publishers. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for views expressed by contributors, or for the accuracy of claims made by advertisers. Advertisers details (other than those provided for inclusion in advertisements) are confidential and will not be given to any third party.

Employment Opportunities with ReAssure Located within the town centre of Telford, ReAssure are proud to be one of the area’s largest employers. ReAssure are a leading Life and Pensions Company, originally founded in 1963 with a proven track record of successfully integrating blocks of pension and insurance. Recently they acquired an additional 1.1 million live policies from UK financial provider Legal & General Group PLC onto their books, resulting in exciting employment opportunities for talented and ambitious customer focussed individuals. When you work at ReAssure, you’re with a company that invests 100% in the growth and development of each and every one of their 2,000-plus employees. ReAssure are committed to doing the right thing for their customers and this is delivered through impeccable levels of service - It’s every interaction that makes the difference. Their customer service team handles every customer query with sensitivity, patience, care and a great deal of expertise. They match this passion for outstanding service with a commitment to continually develop the skills and knowledge of their employees.

ReAssure believe that every member of the team plays a key role in the success of the organisation. Customer Service is 1 of the 16 strong organisational functions across the business. At their Telford site they also have recruitment opportunities within other functions, including Actuarial and IT. The opportunity to progress with them and establish a long-term career is evident at ReAssure, as they offer a broad range of development and promotional career pathways. Whether you are looking for an Apprenticeship, to obtain professional, industry recognised qualifications or diversify into a training and mentoring role, they have the tools and expertise to support this. The team in Telford are also passionate about supporting their local community and chosen charity, Age UK. They hold regular fund raising activities such as cake sales, raffles and quiz nights. As a business, each employee has the opportunity to take part in volunteering activities up to 15 hours a year. They have a sports and social team who actively seek to cultivate an engaging environment across ReAssure, by co-ordinating a range of activities and initiatives that seek to improve cross-functional collaboration and establish good working relationships. The wellbeing of every employee is of great importance to them – this is supported by a Wellbeing group that organise local events. The local school community also benefit from having such a key employer in the area, with ReAssure partnering with local schools to provide young people an insight into the working world.

Matt Cuhls, CEO Matt Cuhls, CEO said “ReAssure is a fascinating, fabulous business to work in. I’ve been here for 18 years and seen it grow from a small business with a single site, to a vibrant financial services firm. Over the next few months we’re embarking on the next phase of a significant growth of the organisation. We’re on-boarding 1.1million policies from Legal and General and that gives rise to the need to bring in to our business a whole new group of staff. As we move through the next 12 months, we will give our new employees a great experience as to how our business works and how the needs of our customers can be met in a variety of functions that they may find themselves working within” Excellence runs through everything at ReAssure, excellence for customers and excellence for our employees.

If you would like to know more about ReAssure and the fantastic employment opportunities available, please contact reassure@tate.co.uk

Tech For the New You If human beings were any good at keeping New Year’s resolutions, the gyms would be full to bursting and the streets full of joggers all year round, not just for the first few weeks. Tech can’t transform you from couch potato to body beautiful, but it can keep you focused on the goal. The good news is that you might already have most of what you need in your smartphone. Many modern smartphones contain the sensors to track all kinds of exercise apart from (obviously) swimming. If your device has GPS it can track your running or cycling, but even if it doesn’t it can usually track your steps and distance. In some cases they can also track your elevation and tell you how many flights of stairs you’ve climbed. Both Apple and Google have their own fitness tracking apps in the form of Activity and Google Fit respectively, but some of the best fitness tracking apps are by third parties. Nike Training Club is a great workout app, while Runkeeper and Strava are brilliant. It’s not just about exercising, of course. Healthy eating can make a big difference to your energy levels and your body shape. MyFitnessPal enables you to track what your food intake to get an insight into your personal nutrition. The app is free, although some of its more advanced features require a monthly subscription. That’s something to check with health and fitness apps generally: apps that appear to be free are often very limited in what they can do, and some subscription plans are frighteningly expensive. If you do decide to get some hardware, even that needn’t cost a fortune. Yes, the latest Apple Watch is pretty expensive at £399-plus, but you can get a perfectly good runner’s watch like the TomTom Runner 3 or Garmin Forerunner 35 for about £99; if all you want to track is your heart rate, you can get a heart rate monitoring watch from Decathlon for £15.99. Even GPS watches are much more affordable: the Kalenji Onmove 220 GPS Watch is currently £69.99. Don’t forget the second-hand market, either. At the time of writing you could get an Apple Watch Series 3 GPS Nike+ watch, a great smartwatch, for £229.99 on eBay. That’s a pretty good discount on the usual RRP of £359. If you do have a smartwatch, there are some excellent fitness apps for those too. The Apple Watch is particularly blessed with endless activity trackers. We like Carrot Fit, which is available for iPhone as well as Apple Watch. Unusually where other apps offer positive reinforcement, Carrot is bad-tempered, judgmental and deliberately offensive. If you have a dark sense of humour though it’s a lot of fun.

Images top to bottom: Apple Watch Nike edition Garmin Forerunner 35 smart watch Decathlon heart rate monitor CARROT Fit smartphone health app

HEALTH & FITNESS

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Soft Tissue Injuries

IN THE WINTER

So the seasonal bad weather is upon us and so in this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s article I thought I would talk about immediate post injury/first aid care for soft tissue injuries and with the frosty and snowy weather on its way it can often be a hazardous time.

A good tip is to place a thin damp tea towel between the skin and ice and this will act as a barrier to the skin preventing ice burns.

We do see an increase in injuries such as soft tissue injuries for example ligament injuries from patients slipping and falling in the cold and icy conditions. Obviously the best form of treatment is prevention so just simple things like making sure you have the appropriate shoes on and make sure paths in and around your property are gritted.

ELEVATION:

If a fall or injury does occur, here are some tips to help ease the pain. Most of you will have heard of RICE this is an acronym for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation and is essential for management of soft tissue injuries.

REST: Rest is essential to help take the strain off tissues which

are trying to heal. Rest will prevent further swelling, pain and further injury. It should be used for a period of time which enables the limb or body part to begin to function better.

ICE: Ice can be a valuable treatment in easing pain and reducing

inflammation and swelling. Controlling the swelling can reduce the risk of increased scar tissue build up and further joint irritation. It is recommended that we ice for around 15 minutes at a time for up to 48-72 hours post injury. It is important to make sure you have good sensation as if you haven't you are at risk of ice burns.

COMPRESSION:

This again is useful in controlling swelling and managing pain. There are various supports and braces available but a simple tubigrip stocking from your local chemist will suffice. Usually used for extended periods but never through the night. This is where the body part is placed in an elevated position to aid venous blood flow back to the systemic blood flow to aid in the reduction of swelling and in turn reducing pain. Remember if you do injure yourself and the pain and dysfunction is severe, it is advisable to seek medical attention. All our physiotherapists are state registered and qualified to assess and treat soft tissue injuries. If you are concerned about your mobility or the mobility issues of a friend or loved one, we do have a physiotherapist who specialises in mobility problems. She can provide specific exercises, balance reeducation and falls prevention advice, which can help rehabilitate and maximise potential.

If you do require advice or would like to book an appointment please call our reception on 01952 462330.

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HEALTH & FITNESS

N E W Y E A R , N E W YO U Book a tour in our Leisure Club Join our fitness membership and benefit from 3 complimentary 1-2-1 training sessions, complimentary fitness classes, personal training sessions available and a members discount scheme. FULLY EQUIPPED GYM

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For the more energetic, you will find a full range of cardiovascular equipment and fully equipped weights room.

Discover our fantastic heated swimming pool, spa pool, saunas and steam rooms.

PERSONAL TRAINING

Get in shape with many of our high-energy and conditioning exercise classes, free for members (booking required).

Get the most of your workout with a personal training session just ÂŁ20.00 per person per hour.

BEAUTY TREATMENTS Our Beauty Within is situated within our Health & Fitness Club, providing a range of treatments in a comfortable and relaxing setting.

FITNESS CLASSES

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Child Mental Health

IS IT IN CRISIS IN SHROPSHIRE?

BBC Panorama reported that “Britain is in the grip of a child mental health crisis and getting help is a postcode lottery”.

Healthwatch Shropshire would like to know about the experiences of Shropshire children, parents, carers and the professionals who support them. Are our children getting the help they need when they need it? If you have used the services, what do you think? Are there gaps in provision? These are the questions Healthwatch Shropshire is asking as part of its Hot Topic looking at the recently launched 0 – 25 Emotional Health and Wellbeing Service in Shropshire. This service includes two online services, Kooth and Helios, where people can access self-help, peer support, counselling and treatment. Support is offered through the BEAM drop in centres along with face to face services from a multi-disciplinary Young People and Families Mental Health Service. Rachael Allen, Healthwatch Shropshire Chief Officer, explained: “We hear a lot in the national press about the mental health problems facing children in today’s society and the services children can access. We really want to hear about the experiences people have of local services. We gather these experiences and feed them back anonymously to those organisations who provide and pay for the services. In this way user experience can help shape the development of services so that they truly meet the needs of the young people in Shropshire.”

Healthwatch Shropshire can be contacted on 01743 237884, at enquiries@healthwatchshropshire.co.uk or online at www. healthwatchshropshire.co.uk. Healthwatch Shropshire is the independent consumer champion for health and social care in Shropshire. It gathers the views and experiences of patients, service users, carers, and the general public about services including hospitals, GPs, mental health services, community health services, pharmacists, opticians, residential care and children’s services. It also has statutory powers that it can use to influence service provision by encouraging improvements.

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HEALTH & FITNESS

How to Keep Your Pets As winter deepens and the weather starts to bite, it’s important to make sure our pets are warm and comfortable to avoid illness and distress. Even those animals with thick, furry coats are susceptible to the cold, so what can we do to help our dogs, cats, and rabbits stay warm this winter?

WARM THIS WINTER

Keeping your dog warm and cosy A warm dog coat offers protection from the winter cold, and as temperatures drop, even dogs with the thickest fur will benefit from the extra insulation when exercising or playing outside. A fleece-lined inner layer with a waterproof outer is a good choice, particularly if the two layers can be detached and used individually as the weather dictates.

Making sure your cat is warm this winter It’s more difficult to ensure your cat is warm in the winter given their independent nature, but they have a natural inclination to find warm places. That’s why it’s advisable to provide a cosy shelter in your garden, to reduce the likelihood of them sitting underneath cars or in other warm but dangerous places.

Protecting your rabbit from the worst of the winter weather If your rabbit is spending the winter in an outdoor hutch, you’ll need to provide additional protection from the elements. Siting their hutch away from the cold winds and driving rain, providing extra bedding, covering the hutch with a blanket and their run/outdoor area with tarpaulin, will all help to keep them healthy and safe By Ann Haldon

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ORTHOTICS

PODIATRY 11

The Easy Way We all want to make positive changes at the start of a New Year but, when it comes to New Years’ resolutions most of us set ourselves up for failure. Trying to make too many changes all at once, and, at perhaps the most depressing time of year isn’t a recipe for success. So, this year it’s time to take a different approach. Here’s our guide to getting fit and healthy for 2019, without the pressure:

Resolution #1 - Lose Weight If you’re keen to shed those extra pounds simply make some small, simple changes to your diet each and every day and build on them as the weeks and months pass by. The result? You’ll be making more and more healthy choices without even realising it and, you’ll soon lose weight. If you usually find yourself snacking on crisps, chocolates and cakes throughout the day then make a switch by swapping one of those indulgent snacks with something a little healthier. Combine healthy options with your usual snacks and gradually try to replace those bad choices with a better option. By doing it this way you won’t feel deprived and you’ll start to see a difference in your waistline within a few months.

HEALTH & FITNESS

TO GET FIT AND HEALTHY FOR 2019 Resolution #2 – Get Fit Everyone rushes to buy a gym membership in January to try to compensate for all that festive over indulgence, keen to make a healthy start to the New Year. But, the reality is most of us don’t even make it beyond the beginning of February before we’re start dropping off those work-out sessions. In fact, trying to fulfil your resolution to get fit by joining the gym can be a really detrimental move. Not only is there the pressure to look good before you even start, there’s the awkwardness of being surrounded by people who seem to know what they’re doing when you’re struggling to work the equipment and getting out of breath and sweaty after just a few minutes. Going from couch potato to fitness pro isn’t easy, but if you start off in the comfort – and privacy of your own home – you can gradually build your fitness levels, get used to exercising and be more confident when you do go to the gym. Plus, delaying that hefty membership until you’ve got your finances straight post-Christmas isn’t such a bad idea either. Start off with some gentle cardiovascular activity, like walking or running for around 30 minutes several times a week. Check out a YouTube tutorial or throw on a fitness DVD and try out a combination of jumping jacks, lunges, push-ups and squats whenever you get chance.

New Year’s Resolution #3 – Drink Less Alcohol Whether it’s unwinding with a large glass of wine at night or indulging in a few beers with mates after work, most of us are guilty of knocking back a few too many units of alcohol each week. To kick this habit you need to change your routine. If you’re a social drinker then try to hold your get-together away from the bar and get something to eat instead. Or you could always choose to catch-up with a morning coffee. If a large glass of wine equals relaxation for you, see if you can unwind in a different way. Skip the part of the evening when you reach for a glass and run a bath instead: light some candles, use your favourite body products, lie back and relax.

by Helen Taylor

s. or online for price ins - see in store Model wears -Dorothy Perkins - see in store or online for prices.

othy Perk Model wears -Dor

Slogan Vest £12. Dorothy Perkins

Gymsack £12.99. Adidas at Deichmann

Leggings £20. Dorothy Perkins.

Work-Out in Style The days of turning up at the gym in an old pair of sweatpants and a baggy t-shirt are long gone; now, it’s all about looking great whilst you get in shape. So, before you get started on your New Year’s fitness plan you’ll need to hit the shops and get your hands on some on-trend gym-wear looks that’ll give you an edge in the style stakes, whether you’re a fitness pro or just starting out. 14

ings £10 and Model wears - Sports Bra £6, Legg . Asda at rge Geo All £20. ch Wat Fitness

Activewear T-Shirt £12. Florence & Fred at Tesco

Sweatshirt £8. George at Asda.

T-Shirt £6. George at Asda

Activewear Leggings £14. Florence & Fred at Tesco.

Model wears - Sports Bra £6 and Yoga Pants £10. Both George at Asda

Model wears Leggings £1 - Sports Bra £6 and 0. Both Geo rge at Asda.

Sports Bra £12. Florence & Fred at Tesco

Lace-Up Trainers £47.99. Skechers at Deichmann

‘Tanjun’ Aqua Trainers £49.99. Nike at Deichmann

Beauty

THE BEST OF THE BEST

The best thing about being a beauty writer is that I get to try a lot of products for free. Over the years I’ve tried hundreds of them, from high-tech gadgets to budget buys. I’m a sucker for shiny new things, so a product has to be very, very good for me to buy a replacement once it runs out. Without further ado, here’s my ‘best-of-the-best’ – the goodies I come back to time and time again. A lot of beauty writers seem to spend hours on their daily skincare routines. I am not one of those people. I’m lucky to have five minutes to myself of a morning, so I really love a multitasker. Frances Prescott’s

Tri-Balm

is a cleanser, exfoliator and moisturiser in one. I have to

admit, I do still use an extra moisturiser most days, but if I don’t have time then at least I know my skin will still feel soft and nourished. Now £46 seems pretty steep for a cleanser I know, but I use mine pretty much every day and it lasts for months. See www.francesprescott. com. I love lighting a candle when I’m in the bath and Janjira’s Grapefruit

and Tangerine Massage Candle

is one of my favourites. And this

is no ordinary candle – it slowly melts to give you a small pool of natural oils to massage into your skin. Heaven. The scent is subtle but gorgeous. £32, from www.janjira.co.uk. If, like me, you sometimes struggle to get to sleep, try

Remedies Goodnight Pillow Mist.

Neal’s Yard

I spray it liberally onto my

pillow and it really does seem to help. It’s a blend of organic essential oils known for their ability to calm the senses and promote rest – such as lavender, vetiver and mandarin. The result is a gentle, comforting scent. It’s £15 from www.nealsyardremedies.com. I find a lot of lipsticks too drying and dislike the stickiness of lip gloss.

Bobbi Brown’s Extra Lip

Tint is my go-to alternative. It’s like a

moisturising lip balm but flushes your lips for a hint of colour and adds shine. The effect lasts about as long as a lip gloss. I’m currently on my second Bare Pink and am planning to treat myself to the Bare Melon and Bare Popsicle shades soon. £25.50, from www.bobbibrown.co.uk. While I like to have a few perfumes on the shelf, I tend to have a favourite for a few years at a time, while the rest sit gathering dust. My current favourite is

Connock London’s Kukui.

There’s a dash

of fresh flowers, including gardenia rose and white jasmine, warmed by sandalwood, vetiver and white amber. Cashmere and vanilla add the comfort factor. The result is a grown-up fragrance that’s sensual, subtle and (in my opinion) totally addictive. It’s priced from £35 at www.connocklondon.co.uk, but do Google for offers. At the time of writing I have my eye on a giftset that includes three 30ml Connock London fragrances for £42.49 (RRP £84.99) at www.psyche.co.uk.

by Kate Duggan

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Ashley Gamble Shropshire salon, Ashley Gamble, has celebrated another award-winning year with a host of acclaimed industry wins. The salon, which marked its fifth anniversary in 2018, has gone from strength to strength with a series of top titles and finalist places at some of the most prestigious award ceremonies in hairdressing. The year started with salon owner, Ashley, being announced as a founder member of The Collective; a digital influencer scheme launched by product company, Schwarzkopf Professional. As part of this pioneering program, Ashley has enjoyed training, exclusive product launches and exciting opportunities as one of the brand’s first ever digital ambassadors. Strengthening his relationship with Schwarzkopf Professional even further, Ashley was also invited to create a model look for the brand, working under the guidance of Global Ambassador, Tyler Johnston in the high-profile Inspire shoot. As one of the country’s most acclaimed colour salons, it was no surprise to see Ashley and partner, Stephanie, finalise for Hairdressers Journal’s British Hairdressing Awards in the category of Schwarzkopf Professional British Colour Technician of the Year. This marked the duo’s fourth consecutive year as finalists. The salon’s colour know-how was also recognised at the Salon Business Awards, where the team were named Colour Salon of the Year – and finalised for Ultimate Salon, Creative Salon, Retail Salon and Ultimate Stylist. At the Hair magazine awards in May, Ashley scooped the title of Salon Stylist of the Year, as well as finalising for Regional Salon. There was yet more recognition of the team’s creative talent at Creative Head’s IT List and Most Wanted Awards, where they were finalists for the highly competitive Hair Trend category. Talent was awarded across the board this year, with Darcey Clark being named Junior of the Year at Hairdressers Journal’s British Hairdressing Business Awards – the ultimate accolade for a rising star in the industry. Darcey has since gone on to finalise for the Schwarzkopf Young Artistic Team – a scheme for nurturing the next big names in hairdressing. The British Hairdressing Business Awards also saw Ashley Gamble shortlisted for Salon Design of the Year. While national achievement is exciting, the Ashley Gamble team have also looked closer to home, in order to celebrate their local community. Their most recent award win was at the Midlands Beauty Industry Awards, where Ashley was named Midlands Hairstylist of the Year. With wins in both creative and business awards, locally and nationally, it was only right for the award-winning Ashley Gamble team to celebrate their beauty services too, and at the Professional Beauty Awards, the team were shortlisted for the Midlands Salon of the Year – not bad for their first year providing beauty services! The Ashley Gamble salon continues to go from strength to strength, and with the launch of a new app, loyalty cards and extended beauty services, as well as a growing team and exciting opportunities for growth and industry recognition, 2019 looks set to be another bumper year for Ashley and the team.

CELEBRATES ANOTHER AWARDWINNING YEAR

BEAUTY & FASHION

Winning Year at

ASHLEY GAMBLE 19

BooshTOX®

AESTHETICS & WELLNESS

BooshTOX® is a thriving Doctor-led Aesthetics and Laser Clinic founded by Dr Andrew Booshan | MB ChB DRCOG MRCGP DPDerm They have now expanded into excellent new facilities based at Pendeford Business Park near to the Jaguar Land Rover plant in Wolverhampton. With proximity to the M54, this gives easy access to their many clients coming in from all parts of the Midlands and Shropshire. Some of the most popular services offered are: ¾¾ Anti-Wrinkle Injectables including Botulinum Toxin ¾¾ Hyperhidrosis Treatment (Excessive Sweating) ¾¾ Lip Enhancement Dermal Fillers – painlessly under anaesthetic nerve block ¾¾ Fine Line and Wrinkle Fillers ¾¾ Tear Trough (Dark Eye Circles) Treatment ¾¾ Cheek Lift & Mid-face Volumisation Treatments ¾¾ Nose Reshaping (Non-surgical rhinoplasty) ¾¾ Non-Filler Rejuvenation - Skin Boosters, Micro-needling & Mesotherapy ¾¾ Plasma (Plexr) Non-surgical Blepharoplasty ¾¾ Vitamin Drips and Booster Shots ¾¾ Cosmetic Minor Surgery / Benign Lesion Removal ¾¾ Levura HIFU No-Needle Facelifts and Body Contouring ¾¾ Laser Hair Removal – Venus Velocity system – treatments by female staff HIFU is a recent addition to their carefully selected treatments. This is High Intensity Focussed Ultrasound which is a highly effective method for stimulating collagen regeneration in the deep tissues of the face and neck. Impressive No-Needle NoDowntime Facelifts, Chinlifts, Eyelifts, Browlifts and Necklifts

are the possible with this platform and it usually needs to be performed just once a year. As Dr Booshan explains, “The lower face and neck are common concern areas for many of our clients. Our brand new HIFU system allows us to target these areas, tightening up areas of early sagging and perfectly complementing dermal fillers used elsewhere in the face. Our Levura system also has a body contouring feature for targeting localised fat deposits, for example at the abdomen, arms and thighs”. The clinic has also recently acquired the Venus Velocity Laser Hair Removal machine. This advanced treatment is performed by Serenna who is an experienced laser and beauty therapist. She explains, “We are the first clinic in the Midlands to have this best-in-class hair removal system from Canada. It is increasingly popular in the United States and London and now we have it right here”. “It gives our clients safe, fast, comfortable and lasting hair removal on all skin types”. BooshTOX® staff are fully qualified and insured for your maximum safety and peace of mind.

BooshTOX® Aesthetics & Laser Clinic, 7 Sidestrand, Pendeford Business Park, Wolverhampton, WV9 5HD Located just off M54 motorway. Only 20 minutes from Telford. 24/7 Direct Online Booking is available via www.booshtox.com They are also happy to take enquiries and bookings by phone or text on (01902) 212 888 or 07555 797 234.

BEAUTY & FASHION

Beauty

WINTER SAVIOURS

Spring may be just around the corner but it’ll be hats and boots weather for a while yet. If your skin is feeling the drying effects of central heating, or you’re just in need of a winter pick-me-up, we may have the answer. When it’s dark and gloomy outside, a bright splash of colour is always welcome. I’m going for

Glossworks Nail Polish in Flamingo. This rich coral shade is very easy to wear and seems to suit most skin tones. The polish is not too drippy or too gloopy so it’s easy to apply. It’s also vegan and free from formaldehyde, parabens and the other chemical ‘nasties’ that you often find in high street varnishes. It’s £12 from www.lovelula.com.

I do love something that has an instant effect as well as a long-term benefit (I have very little patience). Image

Skincare AGELESS Total Pure Hyaluronic Filler delivers

on both counts. Hyaluronic acid is a real workhorse. It helps the skin to lock in moisture and has an instant plumping effect, so minimises the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Long-term, it also stimulates collagen, combats free radicals, improves skin elasticity and more. Now the AGELESS Total Pure Hyaluronic Filler is £80 for a small bottle, but it does contain six forms of hyaluronic acid and you do only need a tiny amount. Visit www.imageskincare.co.uk for stockist details. If you’re in the market for a new moisturiser, try Kimberly

Restore Anti-Ageing Cream.

Sayer’s

It’s designed to moisturise,

tighten, firm and soothe skin, while protecting from environmental damage. It’s rich enough for dry and mature skin but absorbs easily and isn’t greasy. The calming lavender fragrance also makes it a perfect night cream. £29.50, www.lovelula.com.

The cold weather can wreak havoc with your skin, but if your hands are feeling dry and sore, there may be another culprit to blame – your hand wash. Most liquid hand washes contain sodium lauryl sulphate, alcohol and other ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin. (I only have to use a hand wash a few times before my skin starts to crack and bleed.) Try swapping to a bar of soap instead. Faith in Nature, Bentley Organic and Weleda are good brands to look out for, or try your local health food store or farmers’ market for locally made natural soaps.

If your skin does get dry and flaky, you might want to invest in a healing balm.

Odylique’s Ultra Rich Balm is very hydrating, 100% natural and suitable for sensitive skin. It’s made from shea butter, olive oil, coconut oil, beeswax and

sea buckthorn oil, all of which help to nourish and protect skin. A little goes a long way and you can use the balm all over, including on lips and hair. (Got to love a multi-tasker.) From £9.50, www.odylique.co.uk.

Kiss Naturals Eye Palette is just £3 from Wilko and features 12 neutral shades, Looking for a budget-friendly, calorie-free, alcohol-free treat? The

from light beige to chocolate. £3 for 12 eyeshadows, a mirror and a brush? It seems rude not to.

by Kate Duggan

BEAUTY & FASHION

Beauty by Jude

ALL IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME CND Shellac goes on like a polish but wears like a gel. A 14 day glorious high gloss shine with zero dry time, no nail damage and can be removed in around 10 minutes.

WAXING TREATMENTS

MASSAGE TREATMENTS

• Half Leg £12 • Full Leg £20 • Bikini £10 • Underarm £8 • Lip or Chin £6 • Lip & Chin £10 • Half Arm £10 • Full Arm £15

Swedish Massage £38 Head to toe sheer indulgence. As well as leaving you feeling extremely relaxed, massage can improve lymphatic drainage, helps to break down cellulite, loosen arthritic joints, soothe tired & aching muscles and generally improve sense of wellbeing.

EYE TREATMENTS

SHELLAC TREATMENTS Hands or Feet ........................... £18

• Eyebrow Wax £7 • Eye Lash Tint £10 • Eye Brow Tint £8 • Lash & Brow Tint £16

Inclusive of Polish Removal

Lash Lift & Tint £25

Shellac including Manicure ..... £23 Shellac including Pedicure ...... £25 Removal of Polish ...................... £5

Accentuate your natural lashes by giving them a tint and a lift. This 60 minute treatment will enhance your lashes, making them look longer & voluminous. A patch test will be required 48 hrs prior to treatment.

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE call for details

NAIL TREATMENTS Luxury Manicure £15 Including Nail Shape, Cuticles Treated, Hand Massage & Moisturising Mask

Luxury Pedicure £20 Including Foot scrub, Exfoliation, Nail Shape, Cuticles Treated, Foot & Leg Massage & Moisturising Mask

Ladies Pamper Evenings Available from £10 Per Person Call for details

Back, Shoulder & Neck Massage £20 A relaxing massage releasing muscle tension and fatigue on the back, shoulders and neck - the main areas of stress & knots.

Indian Head Massage £18 A non intrusive treatment based around the head, neck & shoulders. It can give relief from headaches, eye strain, tension and improve hair & scalp condition.

BODY TREATMENTS Exfoliating Body Polish £35 A full body cleanse using peppermint exfoliating body polish after an invigorating skin brush.

Purifying Back Treatment £30 The back is deep cleansed, body brushed and exfoliated to help stimulate circulation and cell renewal, then calmed and relaxed with a luxurious massage. A final application of a light moisturiser will ensure the skin is left smooth and revitalised.

CALL JUDE INGRAM ON 07814 671 848

See Facebook for the latest offers: beautybyjudeathome

Restaurant Review

FINDING THE BEST PLACES TO EAT IN AND AROUND SHROPSHIRE

The Huntsman of Little Wenlock

Wellington Road, Little Wenlock Telford TF6 5BH

T: 01952 503300

The Huntsman of Little Wenlock is an award-winning Inn and Restaurant owned and operated by a local Shropshire family. It is nestled in the Shropshire countryside in the picturesque village of Little Wenlock close to Telford. It has been a few years since we last visited The Huntsman and there has since been a change of staff with Head Chef, Andy Eaton and the management team who have been in place for the best part of four years and its easy to see why this has been so successful The menus are bursting with wholesome British classics and include some imaginative and delicious combinations, with a strong focus on using only the best fresh local produce. On arrival we were shown through to the dining room, which has an imposing inglenook fireplace that dominates the large open plan room; floor to ceiling French windows stretch the length of the room, which by day flood the room with natural light and by night reflect the flickering candle light and glow of the log burning stove. For starters Nik chose the Panko Crusted Black Pudding Hash (£6.50) and my choice was the Goats Cheese Croquettes (£6.25). My deliciously creamy croquettes were warm and soft on the inside with a lovely light and crispy breadcrumb coating on the outside. They were served with a lovely sweet red pepper chutney and salad. Nik’s black pudding hash was served with a fried quail’s egg and a pick peppercorn sauce. Sometimes black pudding can be a little heavy with only a small amount being enough, but this really high-quality pudding had been mixed with a lovely light mash which actually made it quite delicate. Coated in super crispy breadcrumbs, the hash had a fabulous golden shell, the perfect little quail’s egg was a lovely touch that made the dish that extra bit special, the pink peppercorn sauce was smooth and extremely tasty, complimenting the hash perfectly. Nik decided on a dish from the specials for his main which was the Posh ‘Fish & Chips’ (£16.95) and I ordered the Confit Duck Leg (£13.95).

FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT My duck was served on a chorizo and butter bean cassoulet with crispy kale. The duck leg had a wonderfully crispy skin with a lovely rich flavour. The spiciness from the chorizo was perfect with the creamy butter beans and the crispy Kale added a really nice extra texture. Nik’s posh fish & chips consisted of four very large lightly battered prawns and a large battered cod fillet, served with crushed minted peas and amazingly fluffy yet crisp chunky chips. The large and succulent prawns were coated in a light batter which kept the prawns really juicy. The cod fillet had large white flakes and the batter was perfectly crisp, topped with a helping of the delicious crushed minted peas and a dollop of freshly homemade tartare sauce, this is the way fish and chips should be done, fabulous! For desserts Nik opted for the Milk Chocolate & Cointreau Cheesecake (£6.25) and I had the Belgian Waffle (£6.25). The warm waffle was lovely and soft and freshly cooked – the warm chocolate sauce and the cold scoop of vanilla ice-cream were the prefect combination for this dish!

including a selection of locally brewed real ales. The Huntsman pub continues to gain awards on a regular basis, the latest was the Shropshire Star pub of the year 2017 and their entry in the CAMRA good beer guide 2019, as well as CAMRA pub of the season 2017. A wide choice of gins are available and we asked their gin expert Rachel to suggest one for us to try, she suggested the Violet gin with a Mediterranean tonic - which was amazing – there is also a gin menu if you need some help deciding what to have. Accommodation is available and consists of three delightful and well-appointed bedrooms, two double and one twin (which can be made into a double if required). The bedrooms are spacious and comfortable, each being en-suite and with free Wi-Fi included. Hunters Cottage is also available for short or long term breaks. The special two and three course menu is back in January and is available lunchtimes and evenings (Monday to Thursday).

Apparently their traditional Sunday roasts are widely regarded as 'the best' in the area and are always popular, so it's worth booking early to avoid disappointment.

Everything about The Huntsman is designed to encourage you to relax and enjoy your visit, whether you are popping in for a beer and a read of the papers; enjoying the best roast dinner in the area in the fabulous restaurant; or perhaps staying overnight in the comfortable, en-suite accommodation. The Huntsman is an oasis of calm tucked away in beautiful Shropshire countryside that allows you to unwind and re-charge your batteries as you enjoy the fabulous hospitality offered by the team.

If you just want to pop in for a drink the Huntsman’s Bar is a comfortable and cosy dog friendly retreat with a large open fire and plentiful seating, where you can enjoy a wide range of drinks

If you haven't visited yet - you must! It really is the perfect place to leave behind the hustle and bustle whilst you enjoy good food, real ale, log fires and good company.

The cheesecake was served with a slice of candid orange. Nik said it was extremely smooth and creamy, the combination of the chocolate with a hint of Cointreau was excellent and the biscuit base was perfect, not too crumbly, not too hard – a lovely end to the meal.

Reviewed by Fleur & Nik Abel

Opening times Mon to Sat: 11am to 11pm Sun: 11am to 10:30pm

Food served Mon to Sat: 12 to 3pm & 6pm to 9pm Sun: 12 to 7pm

SPECIALS 2 & 3 COURSE MENU Available Monday to Thursday

View our menus online at: www.thehuntsmanoflittlewenlock.co.uk enquiries@thehuntsmanoflittlewenlock.co.uk

T: 01952 503300

Wellington Road, Little Wenlock, Telford TF6 5BH

2 courses £13.95 3 courses £15.95 Full à la carte menu also available Bookings are advisable

THE

WHITE HOUSE HOTEL MUXTON

Wellington Road, Muxton, Telford TF2 8NG

T: 01952 603603

Food Served:

2 Steaks and Wine for ONLY

£27.50

(available everyday) 2 Succulent Prime Rump Steaks with a Bottle of House Wine

Mon-Sat 12pm - 9:30pm Sun 12pm - 8pm

MONDAY NIGHT MANIA £8 MAIN COURSE

£3.50 Starter • £3.50 Sweet Choose 1, 2 or 3 courses

Served in the bar or restaurant between 5pm & 9:30pm every Monday night. Please book to avoid any disappointment

Visit our website to view our latest menu

www.whhotel.co.uk

CODEWORD

Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a different number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are shown. Once you have filled these throughout the grid you can start guessing words and reveal other letters. As you find the letters enter them in the grid to the right.

JANUARY FREE RACING

W O LV E R H A M P T O N - R A C E C O U R S E . C O . U K

Terms & Conditions. Online bookings close at midnight before fixture date. Tickets can be purchased from £14 on the gate.

FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT

POST CHRISTMAS PARTY BASH SAT 26TH JANUARY 2019 Despite being January, we will be fully embracing the Christmas spirit! We will be serving a traditional 3 course Christmas dinner, with a disco and tables with crackers and novelties!

£26.95 pp 7pm

CANDLELIT GOURMET VALENTINE DINNER THU 14TH FEBRUARY 2019 On arrival, we will serve you with a glass of pink fizz to enjoy whilst you peruse our

£45.00 pp 7pm

special gourmet Valentine dinner menu. We’ll then serve a delicious three-course Valentine meal before rounding off the evening with freshly brewed coffee.

VALENTINE WEDDING SHOWCASE 24TH FEBRUARY 2019 (12-3pm) At our Valentine Wedding Showcase, Hadley Park House Hotel will welcome a wide selection of around 30 local wedding professionals to provide inspiration for your big day – from cars, cakes, photographers and favours – and so much more! Meet with our experienced Wedding Co-ordinators. It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to show you around our fantastic Shropshire wedding venue. We’ll also be able to advise of the special packages that we have available and if you’re looking to get hitched within six months, there is the Whirlwind Wedding Package too! Free admission and ample free car parking too!

Hadley Park House Telford TF1 6JQ

01952 677269

WEDDING OPEN DAY

Sunday 13th January 2019 12 - 3pm

info@hadleypark.co.uk

www.hadleypark.co.uk 27

Get on Trend

WITH A HOME BAR

From a drinks trolley to a full-on basement hideout, what could be more fun than serving up cocktails in your very own home bar? The ultimate in kitchen decadence: a built-in champagne bar. This is part of a Hartford kitchen, from £40,000, painted in Chicory, by Tom Howley bespoke kitchens.

Show off your bar skills with a shiny serving tray. Add a cocktail shaker and glasses for a high-fashion finish. Brandy round metal tray, £39, made.com.

These hand-made, mouth-blown glasses are perfect for martinis and more. Cocktail glasses, £24.95, Annabel James.

Transform your bar into the coolest place in town. Neon pineapple light, £70, Smithers of Stamford.

Designer Jonathan Adler specialises in modern American glamour. This luxe Jacques bar cart, £1,450, with Barbell ice bucket, £298, and barware set, £198, definitely fits the bill.

Brass-clad doors and a mango-wood and antique brass frame give a luxe, Art Deco look to this bar cabinet, with plenty of space inside for storing and serving cocktails and wine. Pascali bar cabinet, £619, Atkin and Thyme.

A 1920s inspired gold and glass cocktail shaker, for those that prefer their cocktails shaken and not stirred. Cocktail shaker, £25.50, Audenza.

Metallic detailing and gold trim give this tray a glamorous finish, perfect for serving an espresso martini. Leopard print tray, £29, The French Bedroom Company.

Is it always Gin O’clock in your house? Made from heat-resistant glass, these shimmery designs can hold both hot and cold drinks. The teapot contains a filter basket which is perfect for infusing tea leaves or gin flavourings. G&Tea cocktail set, £30, Red Candy.

by Kathrine Sorrell

Stay Home and Socialise

• Where will your bar go? Most people opt for the kitchen or dining room, but the living room and basement are also popular, while outdoor bars are a growing trend. For a fully integrated bar with a sink and refrigerator, don’t forget that you’ll need access to water and electricity. • Unused corners can easily become a home bar – a desk or broad shelf will work just as well as a traditional counter. Inject some pizzazz by wallpapering behind with a glamorous, oversized or metallic print and adding a fun neon sign. • No need to spend a fortune on a built-in bar – just say ‘party time’ with a glamorous bar trolley. A great place to display your most beautiful bottles and glassware, it adds instant personality and can be moved from place to place as the occasion arises. • Money no object? Invest in a built-in champagne bar in your kitchen or a special wine fridge. Or, if your pockets are not quite so bottomless, simply buy a large wine cooler and stock up on ice.

FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT

The Bridge Inn Lower Bar, Newport TF10 7BJ

T: 01952 324481 www.thebridgenewport.co.uk

Selection of local real ales, bottled Belgium beer, craft beer and 25 gins. Freshly prepared, home cooked food, using local suppliers.

Daily

Specials Board Large selection of fish dishes & gluten free dishes

Always a Warm Welcome

Bar Opening Times:

Wednesday to Sunday 12-3pm & 4.30pm-Midnight Monday and Tuesday 4.30 till closing

Good Quality Local Food Served:

Wednesday to Saturday 12-2.30pm & 5-9.30pm • Sunday 12-6pm

The Tayleur Arms Longdon Upon Tern, Telford TF6 6LJ T: 01952 770335 E: info@tayleurarms.co.uk

TheTayleurArms

Food serving times: Mon to Fri 12-2:30pm & 5:30-9:30pm Sat 12-9:30pm Sun 12-5:30pm

www.tayleurarms.co.uk

SUNDAY CARVERY SPECIAL OFFER served every Sunday, 12 till 5:30pm - Booking Essential 10% OFF YOUR BILL Minimum of 3 meats and 2 vegetarian options (gluten free available) When ordering from the main menu. Valid until 31-01-19 (Please present this advert)

MONDAY'S THROUGHOUT JANUARY FILLET STEAK Buy one get one FREE

£22.95

TUESDAY LUNCHTIME OFFER 2 meals for £10 throughout January TRADITIONAL AFTERNOON TEAS AND ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET NIGHTS, CALL OR LOOK AT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION 29

Recipe

LEMON POT PUDDINGS

These delicious individual hot lemon puddings are the perfect sweet treat after a hearty winter supper or Sunday lunch. INGREDIENTS: 100g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing 175g golden caster sugar Zest and juice of 2 large lemons (you will need about 120ml lemon juice) 4 medium eggs, separated 75g plain flour 130ml milk 2 tbsp flaked almonds

TIP

Icing sugar, for dusting

Makes 6 Ready in 40 minutes

1. Preheat the oven to 180C/fan 160C/gas mark 4. Grease six 175ml ovenproof ramekin dishes with butter. 2. Beat the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until pale and creamy. Beat in the lemon zest then beat in the egg yolks, one at a time. Sift over half the plain flour and fold in, then fold in the lemon juice and milk. Sift over the rest of the flour and fold in. 3. Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared ramekin dishes and sprinkle over the flaked almonds. Place the dishes in a large roasting tin and pour in enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the dishes. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden on top. Serve immediately, dusted with icing sugar.

These puddings will form a lovely layer of thick lemon custard under the sponge topping so take care not to overcook them. They will still have a slight wobble in the centre.

FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT

ort Supp

Start the New Year with a healthy “veggie box” delivered to your door

duce l Pro Loca

FREE

Fruit & Veg Boxes delivered to your door (Weekly or Fortnightly)

FIRST BOX 1 /2 PRICE

Pop-in and see us at: Donnington

Station Road, Donnington, Telford TF2 8JY • T: 01952 677345

Priorslee

Woodhouse Lane, Priorslee, Telford TF2 9UR • T: 01952 200696 @shopgreenfields

Green Fields Farm Shop

Buffets with free delivery within 3 mile radius including Hortonwood and Stafford Park 3 Menus to choose from starting at £4 per head (minimum order 4 persons)

• Fresh Bread • Milk, Tea & Coffee • Wenlock Edge, Fordhall Farm, Malcolm Wickstead’s • Huge Range of Cheese and Deli Products & Buttercross Meats • Beers, Wines & Ciders • Vegetables, Herbs, Salads, Fruits & Nuts • Rice, Pasta and Sauces • Home Made Cakes & • Special Dietary Products Goodies & much more...

OPEN from 10am for breakfast

Special Offer

10% OFF your food bill

62 High Street Newport TF10 7AQ

Food served 10-3pm

Freshly prepared homemade food available from 10am till 3pm, including healthy options, sharing platters and small appetites selection

(T&C's apply - Discount applies when ordering off the main menu, excludes drinks and any other offers. Valid until 28th February 2019 - please mention this advert)

Fish Supper Friday

T: 01952 820 810 Ideal venue for Birthdays, Parties, Christenings, Wakes, etc.. Free Wi-fi • Disabled Access Baby Changing Facilities • Pool Table

£6.50

including hot or soft drink

www.thebarleynewport.co.uk 31

Parenting

Achieving a decent work-life balance can seem like the Holy Grail of parenting. But it doesn’t have to be…

Decide what you want

This may seem obvious (MORE TIME!), but it’s a good idea to set out exactly what it is you want to achieve, and what you’re prepared to do to get there. Do you want to pick the kids up from school more often, or have more time with your toddler during the day? Do you need more time off during the school holidays? Or do you just want to attend sports days, school plays and other activities without using your holiday allowance? How much of your salary can you afford to sacrifice?

Making your current job work for you

If you’re happy in your current job, could you reduce your hours? When you factor in childcare costs you might not be as out of pocket as you might expect. Or perhaps you could work at home more often (saving time on the dreaded commute) or change the hours you work? Starting work just 15 minutes earlier each day and cutting your lunch by 15 minutes might mean you could leave the office 2.5 hours earlier every Friday. If you want an extra day off, perhaps you could work longer hours but fewer days?

Your rights

Most employees have the statutory right to make an application for flexible working and employers need a good reason to turn

DITCHING THE 9-5: FLEXIBLE WORKING

down such a request. ‘Flexible working’ covers everything from changing your hours to sharing your job with a colleague. Parents are also entitled to take up to 18 weeks off work (up to four weeks a year) unpaid to look after their child, as long as they’ve been in the same job for at least one year. The Citizens Advice has a lot of information for people who want to change their working hours. See www.citizensadvice.org.uk.

Looking for a new job

More and more employers are starting to wake up to the fact that happier employees usually leads to a better standard of work. You’ll find that a lot of job adverts now mention flexible working. According to the Office of National Statistics, more than 7 million people in the UK have some kind of flexible working arrangement with their employer. If you’re struggling to find a suitable job and know someone in a similar position, could you apply for a job share together? While it’s still not common place, job sharing is becoming more accepted by employers. The Civil Service, for example, states that it ‘positively promotes all forms of flexible working, including job sharing’ and offers guidance to managers on how to make it work. There are several job search agencies and websites specialising in roles that allow flexible working, including job shares. Try www.capabilityjane.com, www.workingmums.co.uk and www. flexibleworks.co.uk

by Kate Duggan

CHILDREN, EDUCATION & ACTIVITIES

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

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

YEAR 7 ENTRANCE TEST Saturday 12th January 2019

For information about how to register for our entrance test or to learn more about our open events please contact Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar telephone 01902 422939, email jam@wgs-sch.net or register online www.wgs.org.uk Pastoral care and support is excellent to ensure children settle in well. Staﬀ are approachable and my daughter is very happy and has developed a new conﬁdence and work ethic. Parents’ Survey 2018

JUDGED “EXCELLENT” IN ALL AREAS BY THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS INSPECTORATE

TES INDEPENDENT SCHOOL AWARD WINNERS 2018

01902 421326

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

180 x 262mm.indd 2

05/12/2018 13:12

Prestigious Award Malvern College has named Birchfield pupil, Grace Seedhouse, as the inaugural recipient of the prestigious Rachael Heyhoe Flint Cricket Award, set up in memory of the pioneering cricket star, who died in January 2017. Grace was selected from dozens of talented young cricketers who attended highly competitive trials a couple of weeks ago at Malvern College. This is the first dedicated girls’ cricket scholarship offered by any school and will be made annually. According to one of the selectors, ‘Grace really stood out . . . She has beautiful timing and is calm under pressure. She has a fierce desire to learn and improve, which often makes the difference between a good player and a great one.’

opposition on their way to the title. She also participates in the Shropshire County Cricket pathway that identifies promising talent in the sport. Lady Heyhoe Flint captained the successful England women’s side from 1966 to 1978 and was the first female cricketer to hit a six in a Test match. Her son, Ben Flint, a former pupil at Birchfield School and Malvern College, helped to launch the awards which are being partly funded by donations made after his mother’s death. “Mum would have been delighted that these awards are being set up in her name,” he said, “and I think she’d be especially pleased that Grace, the inaugural scholar is such a gifted young player.” Grace is thrilled at the esteemed award offered to her and hopes that “it will give me the chance to try to fulfil my dream of playing cricket for England. Rachael Heyhoe Flint set the standard as one of the greatest female cricketers of all time and I really hope I can live up to her example.”

In addition, Grace has also been awarded a Netball Scholarship by Malvern College. Grace currently plays cricket at Worfield Cricket Club and plays alongside the boys in Birchfield’s 1st XI. Grace captained the Birchfield Girls’ Cricket team to become IAPS Midlands Champions, beating strong

Bears Den

Pre-School New Extended Opening Times Monday-Friday 8:30am - 3:00pm (term time only) •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• ••

WON BY BIRCHFIELD GIRL

“We are immensely proud of Grace and her outstanding achievements and congratulate her on being the first ever recipient of this new award”, said Mrs Sarah Morris, Headmistress, on hearing about Grace’s success.

"Curious Cubs leave as Bright Bears" 2 Year Old Funding Available Forces and Non Forces children welcome

Ofsted Inspected Safe and Secure Site BCA Award Runner Up 2017 3 Spacious Rooms Plus Outside Play Area 30 Hour Funded New 30 Hour Funding - Enquiries Welcome Places Available, 15 Extended Funded Flexible Days Hours for 3+ Spaces Available Children Forces and Non-Forces Children Welcome (2, 3 & 4 year olds) Regular Yoga Lessons From a Fully Trained Professional

Fully Qualified Friendly Staff

Over 30 years experience, joyfully assisting years of generations through to their next stage in life where we nudge our children through introducing their first tastes of academic learning

For more information or to book a visit please call 01952 672 506

• Email: bears.den8@gmail.com

Bears Den Pre-School • North Gate • Venning Barracks • Donnington TF2 8JT (Find us near the Clocktower & Wyevale Garden Centre) 34

CHILDREN, EDUCATION & ACTIVITIES

What do students have to say

ABOUT TETTENHALL COLLEGE

“The atmosphere at Tettenhall College really helps you to build your confidence and try new things” Emily Roberts, aged 12, joined Tettenhall College in Year 7. A year on, she tells us about her first experiences of the School: “When I first looked at Tettenhall College and came for a taster day, I saw straight away how many opportunities there were, not just because of small classes and lovely teachers but also in things like sport, drama and music. You notice immediately what a friendly, family environment it is. Everyone is so nice and I made friends quickly.

and have just auditioned for the musical, which was a bit scary but I was determined to push myself and see what I could achieve. I enjoy sport and play netball, hockey and rounders. Our team recently competed in the ISA hockey tournament and came second, which we were very proud of. This is such a lovely place and I’m determined to take advantage of all of the amazing opportunities the School has to offer, I really don’t want to miss out on anything!” The Tettenhall College Assessment and Scholarship Days for Year 7 entry in September 2019 will be held on 23rd, 24th and 26th January. For details and a registration pack please contact our Registrar (see below).

The atmosphere at Tettenhall College really helps you to build your confidence and try new things. The teachers are so supportive and they always have time for everyone, encouraging us all to find what we love and to do our very best in everything. I enjoy languages, history, geography and I love English. Maybe I’ll become a journalist one day – I’m not sure!

The Sixth Form Taster Day and Information Evening will be held on Thursday 17th January. Year 11 pupils may attend the whole day or just come to the evening session. For further details please contact our Registrar on admissions@tettcoll.co.uk, 01902 751119 www.tettenhallcollege.co.uk

Already the School has given me so much confidence. I got involved in the School play

Sixth Form Information Evening | Thursday 17th January Year 7 Scholarship and Assessment Days | 23rd, 24th and 26th January For September 2019 entry Contact: admissions@tettcoll.co.uk • 01902 751119 • www.tettenhallcollege.co.uk

Parental Stress

HAS IT CHANGED OVER 50 YEARS? Vaccination is another topic that has ratcheted up anxiety levels amongst new parents in recent years. There is no scientific proof that immunisation actually causes harm, but rumours that vaccines can lead to autism, brain damage and the ‘overloading’ of a child’s immune system have made some parents reluctant to take up recommended vaccination programmes. Currently, only 87% of children in England receive two doses of the MMR vaccine.

No more outdoors?

If you’ve recently watched your adult son or daughter – now a parent themselves – searching the internet for the latest advice on nappy rash or teething problems, it probably triggered memories of the new-parent panics you experienced when you were young. Most of us have suffered moments of insecurity and selfdoubt about our parenting skills, so it may seem that little has changed over the last fifty years, but there is one very big difference. When you needed childcare advice in your younger days, it’s likely that you picked up the phone to ask your mum, dad or grandparents for advice. Nowadays, when the internet is the go-to source on information on everything from breastfeeding to building a tree house, it’s rare – if not unheard of – for the older generation to be asked for advice about childcare. Some grandparents may feel a pang of nostalgia for those long-lost ‘Mother-knows-best’ days. With online information about childcare so readily available, the idea of asking the older generation for guidance is now as dead as that legendary extinct bird, the dodo. So what else has changed over the past fifty years when it comes to bringing up a child? According to the magazine Psychology Today, “Anxiety has become the hallmark of contemporary parenting” and it affects every decision that parents make.

Healthcare worries

Advances in healthcare have made the process of giving birth much safer for both mothers and babies over the last half century. As soon as a pregnancy begins, everything from the baby’s growth to maternal blood pressure is tested and monitored. While this high level of care is reassuring in one way, it can also add to the anxiety experienced by new parents, opening up a range of questions such as ‘Is my baby ‘normal’? What kind of birth should I choose? Which method of pain relief is best?

Many grandparents look back nostalgically to the time when they roamed parks, streets and open spaces, playing with other children without adult supervision, but these days youngsters are tempted to stay inside, lured by the attractions of computer games, TV and the internet. While most parents appreciate the benefits of exercise, they are equally fearful about the consequences of letting their children play outside, citing concerns about road safety, ‘stranger danger’ and bullying by other children. However, Dr Michael Ungar, author of ‘Nurturing Resilience’, believes parents are too fearful of outdoor hazards. “Where the real dangers lie is indoors,” he writes in a blog published by Psychology Today. “Excessive screen time, often occurring while children snack on unhealthy foods, combined with low levels of activity and few opportunities to learn responsibility or social skills, leave children terribly unhealthy.”

Spare the rod

For anyone who experienced the kind of physical punishment that inspired the old maxim ‘Spare the rod and spoil the child’, it must be good to know that today’s children are more likely to be sent to the naughty step than they are to be smacked. Physical punishment may not have been frowned on in the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s but after 1990, when the UK signed up to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, it became less socially acceptable. While it’s illegal to use discipline that inflicts actual physical harm, current UK legislation stops short when it comes to hitting or slapping that doesn’t leave a lasting mark. However there is huge pressure to change the law: this year the Scottish government is leading the way with a new bill to outlaw any form of physical assault on a child. Looking back over the past five decades, a mixed picture emerges: while parents may be more anxious than they were back in the ‘60s and ‘70s, attitudes towards children’s health and welfare are changing in a positive way, with plans to reduce childhood obesity and revise legislation on physical punishment. However, while laws and attitudes change, thankfully one thing remains the same: most parents just want their children to grow up to lead happy, healthy and productive lives.

by Kate McLelland

CHILDREN, EDUCATION & ACTIVITIES

Open Events Haberdashers’ Adams is holding a series of open events in January and February for families considering entry in Year 7 or the co-educational Sixth Form. Families considering entry into Year 7 are invited to attend a presentation and tour with morning and afternoon sessions on Monday 4th and Tuesday 5th February. Visitors will hear an introductory presentation from the Headmaster at 9.30am or 1.30pm each day. This will then be followed by a tour of the school conducted by the pupils themselves; giving visitors the chance to find out more about Adams and to ask any questions. Each session will last around two hours concluding with information on the application process for anyone interested in applying for Year 7 entry September 2020.

AT HABERDASHERS’ ADAMS also hear from the Headmaster before taking a tour of the school with Sixth Form pupils. For boys interested in boarding, there will also be an opportunity to visit the school’s two boarding houses: Longford Hall - the boarding house for Year 7-10 pupils and the location of the school’s sports field – and the senior boarding house, Beaumaris Hall, which is home to Year 11 and Sixth Form boarders. Headmaster Gary Hickey explains: “We hold Open Days rather than special evening events to allow visitors to see us during a normal working day. We don’t run any special demonstrations or classes as that can give a false impression of the school. It’s very important to me that prospective pupils see the school on a normal day so that they can make a decision about whether Adams is a school where they think they could be happy.”

Year 11 pupils thinking about Sixth Form entry have four opportunities to visit the school on the 10th, 24th and 31st January and the 7th February. A wide range of A-level courses are available at the school which welcomes around 90 new pupils, boys and girls, into the Lower Sixth each year. Year 11 pupils and their families will

Pre-registration is required for both Year 7 and Sixth Form events and is easy to do at adamsgs.uk/openevents

Haberdashers' Adams Newport TF10 7BD T: 01952 953810

Open Days

Traditional Values

Modern Approach

Year 7 Open Days 4th and 5th February

Sixth Form Open Afternoons 10th, 24th and 31st January and 7th February

Connect with us Pre-registration required for all dates, for further details and to register visit:

www.adamsgs.uk/openevents 08371 Open day Advert 126 x 180 v 1.indd 1

/HabsAdamsGS

07/12/2018 17:52

CHILDREN, EDUCATION & ACTIVITIES

RECEPTIO N AN D KS1 DISCOVERY MORN I NG Saturday 2nd February 2019 10am - 12.30pm Especially for families with younger children. Come and join in the fun! Register online www.oldhall.co.uk

Co-educational day school 4-11 admissions@oldhall.co.uk 01952 223117

FUTU R E

ON E GREAT START

Wellington, Shropshire TF1 3LB

www.oldhall.co.uk Registered Charity No. 528417

Wellington, Shropshire, TF1 3BH

Sixth Form Join our diverse and vibrant Sixth Form – Excellent A-level results Specialism in STEM subjects – Wide choice of subjects and extracurricular activities – 95% first choice university destinations An Independent Free School offering Day and Boarding places from Reception to Sixth Form

Respect  Community  Trust  Initiative  Risk Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV3 OEG Tel: 01902 341230 info@theroyal.school www.theroyalschool.co.uk

The Royal School Wo lverhamp ton

Rise in first-time buyers good news New figures have revealed more good news for the property market, with first-time buyers continuing their resurgence. Earlier this year, Lloyds Bank reported that the number of first-time buyers rose by 3% to 175,500 sales in the first half of 2018. And new data just released by UK Finance shows that the number of property valuations for first-time buyers has risen in all areas of the UK except for London. The largest increases in first-time buyer valuations were in the north of the country, where over 43% of first-time valuations are for properties priced less than ÂŁ125,000. In our region, the number of first-time buyers has risen by 2.7%, and increases were even higher in the north-east and north-west of the country.

The importance of floor plans Floor plans are vital when it comes to letting property - and yet many agents do not include them for all rental properties as standard. According to Rightmove, about 50% of tenants say they would not follow up on renting a property unless it was accompanied by a floor plan. The poll also found the importance of a floor plan was rated at seven out of 10, whilst one in five people went as far as saying they would ignore a property completely or only revisit if nothing else caught their attention if a floor plan was not provided. Very few agents provide this service, despite it being proven as an aid in finding a tenant more quickly, but I am happy to report that we now include floor plans as standard for our rental properties.

A look at the Telford property scene with James Carlon

One of the reasons behind the increase is that first-time buyers are currently facing less competition for property from buy-to-let investors. In the first nine months of 2018, buy-to-let mortgage approvals across the UK have fallen by 13.5% compared to the same period a year ago, according to Finance UK figures. First-time buyers being able to buy property is great news for the whole market, because they are the vital first cog in the chain which helps transactions to move forward.

James Carlon Residential Sales Manager Nock Deighton t. 01952 292300 m. 07974 154950 e. j.carlon@nockdeighton.co.uk

A look at the Telford lettings scene with Dawn Clarke

Clearly it is important for landlords to get a tenant in as quickly as possible to start collecting rent, and anything that helps this process has to be a good thing. Photographs and descriptions of property are undoubtedly important but we have established this is not sufficient and floor plans are helping to provide the full package. We are delighted to be able to now provide this service as a matter of course. For more advice about lettings and property management, give me a call on 01952 290163.

Dawn Clarke Director Nock Deighton t. 01952 290163 m. 07976 209011 e. d.clarke@nockdeighton.co.uk

PROPERTY

3 Colliford Close, Priorslee, Telford 5 bedroom detached house A spacious detached family home with south facing garden, ample parking and located within a much sought after residential development. 11 offers achieving in excess of the asking price

SOLD We have buyers waiting - more properties are urgently required!

Residential Sales & Lettings | Property Management | Land & New Homes | Surveyors www.nockdeighton.co.uk

Telford 01952 292 300 Newport 01952 570 222

Ironbridge 01952 432 533

Buying a house? Don’t get emotionally attached! Property tips from

Glyn McKenna of Nock Deighton in Ironbridge

We’ve all heard someone say “I’ve fallen in love with this house I have seen” or “we simply have to have the house we viewed”.

Always ensure the numbers are right and if you really feel that you can’t trust yourself, enlist the help of a professional or other reliable third party who will view the whole thing with a more clinical eye.

There’s nothing wrong with enjoying house-hunting, and in coming to a decision between properties your judgement is clearly going to be influenced by emotion but make sure you are making your mind up for the right

The other really good piece of advice in buying a house is to give yourself time to think about it, it’s a hugely important decision, so it’s a good idea not to rush into it. Sleeping on it or even leaving things a couple of days usually allows for the initial excitement to become tempered giving way to a cooler reality and a more

reasons.

objective frame of mind.

“So, how do you know if you are too emotionally attached to a property you

For more advice, give me a call on 01952 432533 or visit our offices in High Street, Ironbridge.

have seen and are keen on buying? ” Here are some pointers to keep you stay on the straight and narrow: Make sure you see the property for what it is rather than how you feel about it. When deciding to buy a property, you will have already decided on a framework of what you want and need, so stick to the basics of that. 42

Glyn McKenna Branch Principal Nock Deighton t. 01952 432 533 / 07739 484952 e. g.mckenna@nockdeighton.co.uk

PROPERTY

6 Coalport Close, Broseley 5 bedroom detached house Excellent detached family home situated in a popular cul-de-sac in Broseley offering generous living space throughout. 5 offers and sold for over the asking price

SOLD We have buyers waiting - more properties are urgently required!

Residential Sales & Lettings | Property Management | Land & New Homes | Surveyors www.nockdeighton.co.uk

Telford 01952 292 300 Newport 01952 570 222

Ironbridge 01952 432 533

Happy New Year from all at

SALES

RENTAL

• Experience of over 30 years • Professional Photography • Energy performance certificates and floor plans prepared • Expert sales software • Good feedback after viewings • Plenty of client contact • Advice on Solicitors • Financial advisors available

Properties

WANTED For RENT or For SALE

“Service with a smile and a cup of tea”

• ARLA Agreements • Attended Move ins with pictures taken • Rent guarantee • Repairs programme in 40 different languages • Regular reports from our Happy Inspector • Monthly statements • No hidden charges or add ons • Client money protection • Accredited by Telford and Wrekin Council • Experience in Court Procedures • Pet Friendly Agent

Come and relax in our friendly office or call us and chat about your requirements

Tel: 01952 246622 or 01952 246633 • Fax: 01952 616677 Email: julia@juliaweston.co.uk • www.juliaweston.co.uk Julia Weston Estate Agents, The Stables, 43 Market Street, Wellington, Telford TF1 1DT

Poet Blake Browning Carroll Cummings Donne Duffy Emerson Frost Hardy Hughes Keats Kipling Lear McGough Nash Plath Poe Pushkin Rossetti

Shakespeare Shelley Southey Tennyson Yeats

Find the names of poets in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase

PROPERTY

Highworth, Bratton Road, Bratton, Telford, Shropshire Immaculately presented spacious six bedroom property. Set in a highly sought after location, this substantial six bedroom property arranged over four floors, has been designed with entertaining in mind. With sun terrace and lawns to the rear and the added benefit of a detached triple garage with annex above, gated access and generous parking. EPC D

Guide price: Â£995,000 Country Homes 01584 875555 countryhomes@nockdeighton.co.uk

www.nockdeighton.co.uk

PROPERTY AGENTS | VALUERS | SURVEYORS | AUCTIONEERS

Save Our Shropshire Green Belt Towns and villages throughout Shropshire are in danger of losing greenbelt land in new proposals released by Shropshire County Council.

The 'Local Plan Review' sets out the preferred sites to deliver housing and employment growth and to give direction to improve housing needs and establish development guidelines and boundaries during the period 2016 to 2036. Sites include Albrighton,Cosford ,Bridgnorth, Ironbridge,Broseley, Ludlow,Shrewsbury and Shifnal to name a few. Many local residents are now worried on how current services will cope with further growth and are concerned about losing greenbelt land alongside the effect new housing estates and employment areas will have on local historic monuments, wild life, protected species and conservation areas. Shropshire County Council however feel that this review is essential to meet high housing needs, balance employment growth and deliver a minimum net requirement of an additional 80 hectares of new employment land. Shropshire Council are seeking views of all parties with an interest in the preferred development strategy and sites in these identified locations, so that relevant views and evidence can be taken into account in deciding the best way forward. The consultation Period will run from Thursday 29 November

JAYS REMOVALS & STORAGE LTD We are a family run business and deliver a professsional removal to the highest standard. We ensure our customers are 100% happy with the work we do and offer excellent value for money.

YOUR HOME, SAFE IN OUR HANDS

Aston Hall - a listed building, in Shifnal where an 80-100 housing estate has been proposed in the field next to it. 2018 – Thursday 31 January 2019. Consultation documents will be made available on the Shropshire Council web-site, and paper copies will be provided at libraries and council offices in the main towns. Shropshire council plan to issue a summary of responses on the Council’s website within three months of the closing date of the consultation. A copy of the full plan review can be found on Shropshire councils website https://shropshire.gov.uk/planning-policy/ Alternatively for further information email : planning.policy@ shropshire.gov.uk or Tel : 0345 678 9004.

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PROPERTY

IT’S YOUR LAST CHANCE Let your 2019 adventure begin with one of these two remaining new homes!

Help to Buy

3 bedroom Hazel mid-terrace: £170,000 3 bedroom Elm semi-detached: £175,000 Both come with fully integrated kitchen, fitted flooring throughout & a turfed rear garden! Buy with Help to Buy - pay just 5% deposit!

Daisy Park, Daisy Bank Drive, Telford, TF2 9UL

Daisy Park is located only a short distance away from Oakengates and just 3 miles from Telford Town Centre.

Call: 0845 873 2891†

Showhome & Marketing Suite open 10am to 5.30pm daily www.lioncourthomes.com *All offers are subject to terms and conditions, please ask our Sales Executive for full details. Carpets from Lioncourt Homes standard range. Photographs show indicative images of Lioncourt homes. Help to Buy is a government-led scheme and availability is subject to qualification. For full terms and conditions visit www.helptobuy.org.uk. Prices and offers correct at time of print. †Calls will be charged at seven pence per minute from a BT landline and may cost considerably more from mobile and other phones. Contact your service provider for more details.

Home & Interiors

SMALL SPACE?

4. Aim high. In a child’s bedroom, for example, a high-sleeper bed can include a desk, sofa or play area beneath. Why stop at the normal height when bookcases, kitchen cupboards and wardrobes can all be built right up to the ceiling, adding some vital extra storage space? You just need to remember to plan for somewhere to store a ladder or step stool, too. 5. Get clever with colour. While pale colours appear to recede, and thus increase the sense of space, darker colours absorb light and therefore appear more enclosing. So, for a bright, airy, open look, opt for a unified, pale colour scheme. Paint built-in storage and radiators the same colour as the walls to make them disappear.

Mahlzeit stone grey melamine units combined with walnut repro vertical panels, £5,000, Rational: 0800 160 1845; rational.de/en

Small may be beautiful, but living in a small space is not always easy. Our tips will help you make the most of every room, no matter what its size. 1. Are you making the most of every centimetre of your space? The best way to tell is by drawing a scale plan and checking for areas that could be improved. Ask yourself whether relatively simple changes such as repositioning a radiator, re-hanging a door or simply moving the furniture could make a big difference.

6. Use mirror and glass to open up a room. Think about light sources – whether sunlight through windows or light fittings – and place mirrors so that they bounce the light around. And choose glass or acrylic when possible for furnishings or accessories so as to create that barely-there look. 7. While it is not always necessary to opt for small-scale pieces, select furniture carefully, avoiding deep, squishy upholstery, fussy details and bulky outlines. Simple, lightweight styles have the least impact in a small space, and anything raised on slender legs will make the room seem larger (because there is more visible floor area). When appropriate, look out for compact, folding, wheeled, extending, dual-purpose or wall-mounted furniture, each of which can provide great solutions for different space problems. The only condition is that it must be comfortable, fulfil its function and suit your overall style.

2. Storage is vital. In fact, it is often the case that losing a little floor area to create built8. Decide on one design style and make in storage will actually make the room seem sure it is cohesive throughout. Employing more streamlined and therefore larger. Think complementary (pale) colours, interesting bookshelves and cupboards in the living room, Mirrored floating bedside/shelf, natural textures and subtle patterns will wall-to-wall wardrobes in the bedroom, floor- £79.99, MY Furniture: 0800 092 generate a sense of harmony and understated to-ceiling shelving in the study and a tall coat 1636; my-furniture.co.uk visual appeal. cupboard in the hall. Add storage into any ‘dead’ space you can, whether it’s in chimney alcoves, around 9. If you are working on a renovation, then larger-scale a bed head or above a doorway. Wall racks and hooks on the alterations may be achievable, even if you cannot enlarge backs of doors are invaluable. your square footage. Consider replacing bulky radiators with underfloor heating, 3. Whatever storage you buy or build, don’t forget to design going open plan, their interiors to make them incredibly functional. Adding enlarging windows, internal drawers, shelves, baskets, hooks and so on will enable replacing doors or every bit of space to be put to good use. walls with glass to allow light to flow from room to room, or even – if height allows – adding a In a small home there is simply no room for excess mezzanine floor level. clutter. It can be really hard to get rid of stuff, but if you

Clear your clutter and create some space

don’t use it regularly, you’ll have to be ruthless. Sort it into boxes or bags marked for rubbish, recycling, giving away, mending or storing elsewhere. Aim to do one room per week, or a few minutes a day – then get into the habit of keeping on top of it so it doesn’t build up again.

Stora loft bed frame, £239, Ikea: 020 3645 0000; ikea.com/gb

by Kathrine Sorrell

PROPERTY

Moooooving...?

Choose Barker Healey Property to sell your home and make sure your property stands out from the crowd!

WA N T E D PROPERTIES TO SELL

1% ISSION

COMM

10 High Street, Newport TF10 7AN

01952 813625 www.barkerhealey.co.uk This imposing double-fronted property boasts plenty of living accommodation, conveniently set out over three floors. From the Entrance Hall there is a spacious Lounge to the left and a well appointed Kitchen Diner with Family Room to the right. To the rear of the property there is a large Conservatory that can be accessed off the Lounge as well as from the Entrance Hall, which also allows access to the rear garden. The modern Kitchen Diner has a range cooker and built in appliances. There is a breakfast bar and further Family Room area to the front. The integral access to the Garage is via a Utility Room which allows entrance to both the front and rear of the property. Just off the Entrance Hall is a Downstairs W.C. To the first floor you will find a Master Suite with dressing area and En-suite as well as two more double Bedrooms and Family Bathroom. To the second floor you will find a further En-suite Bedroom and an additional double Bedroom.

5 Stoneleigh Grove, Muxton.

The property enjoys a corner plot with parking for two vehicles. The rear garden is mainly laid to lawn with a decked area. Viewing is highly recommended as this fabulous family home is in a superbly quiet spot and we are certain it won't be on the market for long!

Guide Price 350,000

Modern Velvet

A huge trend in both fashion and interiors, velvet is a gorgeous fabric to use around the home, whether snuggling up in a softly upholstered sofa or adding a touch of luxury in the form of a few boldly coloured cushions. Go maximalist with boldly coloured and patterned bedlinen, complemented by a velvet cushion in a contrasting colourway. Leighton reversible bedlinen by Oasis Home, from £50 for a single set; Leighton velvet cushion by Oasis Home, £28; all The French Bedroom Company.

This pleated and buttoned footstool truly is pretty in pink. Gumdrop footstool in chalky pink vintage velvet, £395, Loaf.

This Deco-inspired table lamp would add a feminine touch to a living space or bedroom. Brass & Blush tapered table lamp, £175, Cox & Cox.

This stylish drinks cabinet is made from oak with an inlay finish, and lined with striking royal blue velvet for luxurious effect. Pascal bar unit, £1,365, Sweetpea & Willow.

A sofa upholstered in velvet can provide a splash of colour in an otherwise neutral room. Lottie sofa in Isla Kingfisher, £1,860, Neptune. A glamorous touch to complete the bedroom or home office – a soft-feel alarm clock in chic charcoal grey. Karlsson Lush Velvet alarm clock, £29, Cult Furniture. The curvaceous Ariel bed from the Handmade in London collection combines natural, Art Nouveau-inspired forms with the clean lines and tapered legs typical of mid-century design, and can be covered in the fabric of your choice. Shown here in Lustrous Blossom Luxury Velvet Plus, £3,105, Sweetpea & Willow.

Make an impact with a velvet cushion featuring a striking pelican print from Vanilla Fly, £45, Printer + Tailor.

Luxurious storage for the bedroom: Beautify set of two grey velvet trunks with rose gold clasps, £64.99, Domu Brands.

How to Decorate with Velvet

• The soft, luxurious feel of velvet provides an atmosphere of warmth and comfort. It can be pricey, but a little goes a long way, so if budget is an issue bear in mind that just one touch – perhaps a headboard, lampshade or simply a cushion or two – will transform a room. • •Velvet comes in beautifully intense, deep colours and, as such, will add a dramatic highlight to a neutral space. Choose one colour for a subtle, understated scheme. • If you prefer the maximalist look, then pile on more patterns and a variety of tones, mixing linen, cotton and other fabrics with velvet to ensure a variety of beautiful textures. • Look out for different types of velvet, including crushed, embossed, chiffon and devoré (or burnout), which can be employed as accents and to introduce a variety of decorative effects.

HOME INTERIORS

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.

Oakengates Carpet Company CARPETS•VINYLS•LAMINATES RUGS•BLINDS

TARGET Excellent: 35 or more words Good: 30 words Fair: 26 words

S E

G X

A F

Look out for our

January

R I

SALE

T: 01952 620 200 Established Since 1965

Stafford Road, Oakengates Telford TF2 6JH

www.oakengatescarpets-telford.co.uk 51

Gardening

WINTER COLOUR Rubus cockburnianus, a relative of the standard bramble but with arching white stems that look great in the winter sunshine. In summer it will produce sprays of small purple flowers. Christmas Roses or hellebores, including Helleborus argutiflorus, produce classic open hellebore flowers, cup-shaped with prominent stamens and unusual green flowers. These are some of the toughest winter flowers you can get, and they seem to perform well whatever the weather. The classic Christmas rose proper is white-flowered, developing a slightly pink tinge as they age, and look stunning against the large central cluster of golden-yellow stamens. The variety ‘Potters Wheel’ has notably large flowers, up to 10cm in diameter.

Happy New Year to you! Here’s hoping that the year ahead brings great things for your garden…. and not too many pests! So, there’s no doubt it’s winter but there’s no need for your garden to be in the doldrums – with a bit of careful planning and strategic planting your garden can still look gorgeous, despite the weather. True, there may not be quite so many highly colourful plants out there at this time of year, but here are some that will help to make your plot far from dull. Dogwoods or Cornus are great winter stem-colour plants. Choose one of the many varieties of Cornus alba, plant it in a moist yet sunny spot, and the richly crimson-red stems will look stunning during the winter months. In autumn you’ll also get red and purple foliage. To keep these colourful stems coming, you’ll need to cut back your dogwood stems to ground level in late spring every alternate year. Winter classic good looks come from the hollies – don’t forget they need not be plain green in leaf colour as there are also fantastic variegated forms, such as ‘Argentea Marginata’ with silvery leaf edges, or for golden-yellow leaf edges choose ‘Golden Queen’, or, for a really wacky hedgehog-look, go for ‘Ferrox Argentea’ with leaves that are silver-edged and covered all over with prickles! You may think of willows as being only the huge weeping variety at the side of large ponds, but there are also a number that can easily be kept quite small, and which have stunning coloured winter stems. For egg-yolk yellow stems go for Salix alba ‘Vitellina’, for scarlet-orange stems there is ‘Britzensis’ or for a touch of regal glamour how about Salix acutifolia ‘Blue Streak’ which has purple stems with a slivery-grey bloom and smart contrasting grey buds? To keep the stems like this, these, like the dogwoods, need to be cut back to ground level every two years. If you can plant some next to a pond, even better – their reflection in still winter water is an added bonus. For a seriously unusual charm there is the ghost bramble,

Snowdrops are the classic winter flower and are small but delightful whatever the size of your garden. There are single and double forms to choose from and they look great planted in drifts or even allowed to naturalise on a grassy bank. The bulbs are usually sold in autumn, but you could always buy a few ready-to-flower snowdrops in pots now, plant them out, and then go for the less expensive option of planting them ‘in the green’ in a month or two’s time, when you can get the bulbs, complete with leaves, ready for planting from mail order suppliers. Winter aconites, with their bright yellow, shiny petals and flowers that open out like golden stars, are a real favourite of mine. Plant the corms close to and in amongst some snowdrops and they produce a superb display together. Plenty of moisture without waterlogging is the key to success. Winter flowering pansies are well worth including too, and again they make a splash of colour in any garden, whether in pots, troughs or in open ground, with just about every conceivable colour available. If they do get struck by frost the delicate-looking flowers soon perk up again, so don’t panic! If you’re after a winter-flowering climber, go for Clematis cirrhosa with flowers that are bell-shaped, yellow to white and even have a delicate lemony perfume if you get up close enough. The inner surface of the petals is delicately freckled – choose the variety ‘Freckles’ for the best dark spotting available. The flowers appear in early winter and last right up until the start of spring. Not strictly a climber, more of a scrambler, winter-flowering jasmine makes a great display if loosely trained against a wall and throughout the winter the bare stems are studded with the brightest yellow starry flowers, each up to 2.5cm diameter. It does well in almost any position in the garden, and will really help to make you think that spring is coming! At www.pippagreenwood.com you can join ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ for great vegetable plants and weekly advice, practical and pretty plant supports, the fantastic SpeedHoe, gardening tools, signed books and more! Or why not book Pippa for a talk at your gardening club?

by Pippa Greenwood

GARDENS & OUTDOORS

CLOSED DURING JANUARY Re-opening 1st February 2019 We would like to thank all our customers, new and old, for all their support during 2018. Although we are closed during January we will still be working hard to bring you quality plants, including lots of new additions for 2019. Come and view our quality products and be amazed at our fantastic prices... Bloomsbury Nursery Ltd, Weston Heath, Bloomsbury TF11 8RT

01952 691203 • www.bloomsburynursery.co.uk

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Gardening

REMARKABLE RASPBERRRIES Choose a sunny, sheltered spot and make sure that you weed the area thoroughly before you get started, as the raspberry canes will do much better without weeds competing for moisture and nutrients. If your garden is very hot and sunny in the summer then the raspberries will enjoy a little light shade from a nearby tree; otherwise, they like sunshine.

Succulent, tangy, sweet, flavoursome and a lot better than any you can buy in the shops! I adore home-grown raspberries and if you are going to grow soft fruit then I would recommend them above everything else for value and reliability. Despite what you may imagine they are not a difficult crop to grow, and when you consider the price of a miniature (and often rather mushy) punnet of them in the shops, they’re really good value for money too. The rather unexciting looking canes, best bought bare root, are available now, so here are my top tips for planting and growing great raspberries.

Summer-fruiting raspberries need a support system – sturdy posts at a spacing of about 1.8m (6ft) and galvanized wires at a spacing of about 30cm (12in) will do the trick, as you need to loosely tie the canes in to this support system. Autumn-fruiting raspberries do not need this sort of support, but you can tie them in if you wish, or – as the canes are inclined to flop downwards when full-sized – simply supply a few wires to keep them away from the soil. The canes are available now from mail order suppliers and from many garden centres too. They may look like a rather unimpressive bundle of sticks, but in this ‘dormant’ state they respond well to planting right now. The canes need to be spaced 40-45cm (15-17in) apart, and if you want more than one row allow about 2m (6ft 6in) between them. Dig in plenty of well-rotted manure for extra soil fertility and then plant each cane at a depth of 5-8cm (2-3in), making sure that you spread the roots out well so they establish better. Once you have firmed the canes in, cut each one back to about 25cm (10in) above ground level and, if the ground is at all dry, water in well to re-settle the soil. Once the weather warms up in the spring you will start to see growth on the canes as the buds come to life, but until then they’ll remain looking worryingly like a row of seemingly dead sticks!

Raspberries like plenty of moisture, but hate being actually soggy around the roots. If your soil is very light and sandy , improve its texture and moisture-retaining ability before you plant the canes – digging in plenty of bulky organic matter such as garden compost, well-rotted manure, composted bark and composted bracken will all help.

Summer-fruiting raspberries fruit on the previous year’s growth, so plant now for only the tiniest crop in 2019 and a far bigger one from 2020 onwards. Autumn fruiters produce their crop on the growth produced that same year, so you should get a decent crop this autumn and an even heavier one from 2020.

There are two main types of raspberry you can grow at home: the summer-fruiting ones that crop heavily in midsummer and the autumn fruiters that start cropping towards the end of summer and often produce plenty of gorgeous fruits right through until the first frosts. If you can spare the space, have a few of each – that way you can enjoy the longest possible period of raspberry-eating! There are several different varieties of both summer and autumn-fruiting raspberries, and if you choose a variety like ‘Fallgold’ you can even have yellow fruits.

To keep your raspberries in top condition, mulch each spring with well-rotted manure. As soon as the summer-fruiting varieties have finished cropping, cut the canes that bore the fruit back to ground level and the newly formed canes can then be tied in to the wires ready for next year. With autumn-fruiting raspberries, just cut back the old canes at the end of winter and the new canes will appear in spring.

If your soil is really rather heavy and wet, and if it is alkaline or chalky, you may find that summer raspberries struggle. If this is the case, do as I do on my heavily alkaline, sticky clay soil and grow autumn fruiters, as they seem to put up with adverse conditions like this really well.

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com and join ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ for great vegetable plants and weekly advice from Pippa, stylish cloches, the fantastic SpeedHoe, gardening tools, Grower Frames and signed books! Or book Pippa for a gardening talk at your gardening club.

by Pippa Greenwood

GARDENS & OUTDOORS

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Driveway & Landscaping

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The Top Ten

OF MOTORING Confused.com’s top 10 most stolen cars: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Mercedes C-class BMW X5 Range Rover Sport Mercedes-Benz E-class 5. 5BMW 3 Series

The top 10 most expensive motors, according to Luxhabitat: 1. Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita: £3.6m 2. Lamborghini Veneno Roadster: £3.4m 3. Lykan Hypersport: £2.6m 4. Bugatti Veyron by Mansory Vivere: £2.5m 5. Aston Martin Valkryie: £2.4m 6. Ferrari Pininfarina Sergio: £2.3m 7. Pagani Huraya BC: £2.1m 8. Ferrari Laferrari Aperta: £1.7m 9. Zenvo TS1: £1.5m 10. Mazzanti Evantra Millcavalli: £900K

6. Land Rover Discovery 7. Range Rover Autobiography 8. BMW M3 9. VW Golf 10. Audi RS4

From the Honest John website, we come to a rogue’s gallery top 10 of cars that gave the least overall owner satisfaction. 1. Ford Ka

6. Renault Megane

2. Citroen C1

7. Peugeot 407

3. VW Touran

8. BMW Z4

4. Fiat 500

9. Citroen C3

5. Renault Laguna

10. Vauxhall Vectra

So, where do that leave us? Just that buying a far-Eastern made, mid-priced, security equipped car, won’t get you onto any of these top-10s. Happy Motoring! by Iain Betson

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD Across

Down

1. Physical discomfort or illness (7)

2. State of lawlessness and disorder (7)

5. Roald ___, author of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (4)

3. Incendiarism (5)

10. Victoria Beckham’s former surname (5)

4. Modify, tone down (6) 6. Make parallel (5)

11. Person who shoes horses (7)

7. Former unit of money in Italy (4)

12. Musical instrument played like an accordion (10)

8. Accumulation of jobs yet to be dealt with (7)

14. Gas found in air (6)

9. Free of charge (6)

16. Towards the tail of a ship (6) 19. Type of amphibian once thought to live in fire (10) 23. Look believed to have the power to inflict harm (4,3) 24. Feather worn as an ornament (5) 25. Sculpture of the head and shoulders (4) 26. Small falcon that hovers in the air (7)

13. Liquorice-flavoured herb (7) 15. Pencil mark remover (6) 17. On the way (2,5) 18. School for training horses (6) 20. Inappropriate or out of place (5) 21. Bus garage (5) 22. Word that denotes an action (4)

©Puzzlepress.co.uk

MOTORS & LEISURE

The new GLE All kinds of strength.

The all new GLE is coming to Mercedes-Benz of Shrewsbury soon! Mercedes-Benz of Shrewsbury Battlefield Enterprise Park, Shrewsbury, SY1 3TG 01743 537233

Lookers.co.uk/Mercedes-Benz

MERC0306 Shrewsbury In and Around January.indd 1

03/12/2018 14:14

How to get the Best Deal

ON YOUR CAR INSURANCE

Nobody likes to pay more than they have to with car insurance. We take a look at how you can save money on your premiums. Increase your excess

It might be tempting to keep your excess low to minimise the upfront cost, but this can result in much higher premiums. Experiment with the different excess costs when you’re shopping around. Your policy price could tumble by simply adding £50 more to your excess. Of course, make sure you can afford to stump up the cash in the event of an accident.

Consider your annual mileage

Are you covering a few thousand miles less annually than your insurance allows? Reducing your quoted mileage will bring premiums down. The more miles you tell your insurer you’re doing, the more of a risk you are to them – meaning a higher price to pay for you. Sure, it’s hard to predict exactly how many miles we’re going to cover in a year – but if there’s noticeably more left over, don’t be afraid to cut them out of your policy.

Keep the number of named drivers down

While adding a more experienced driver to a policy may result in lower costs, adding multiple users will see it increase. If someone on the policy uses the car once or twice a year, drop them from it and use a temporary cover service when they need the vehicle.

Add an alarm system

Although most new cars are fitted with seriously good security equipment, some older models lack the modern luxury of a decent anti-theft protection system. If your car is lacking, investing in an aftermarket alarm system with an immobiliser will result in long-term savings by way of cheaper insurance premiums – especially if you fit a Thatchamapproved system.

Opt for a black box policy

For younger drivers in particular, a black box policy can drastically reduce the annual cost of insuring your car. Insurers offering a black box policy will fit a data recorder to your, car allowing them to monitor your driving habits, mileage covered and where you’ve been. It may sound rather Big Brother and terrifying but as they can track exactly how you’re driving, your initial cost is reduced and good habits on the roads can lead to huge discounts at renewal.

Are the extras necessary?

Car insurers like to offer plenty of extras alongside the standard policy to give buyers more cover, but these come at an extra cost. While things like breakdown and courtesy car cover sound like a smart addition, these can often be found cheaper elsewhere

rather than alongside the policy – while extras like cover while driving abroad may be totally unnecessary.

Garage your car

Securely parking your car in a garage makes it a much safer prospect in the eyes of insurers, as it’s out of the eyes of potential thieves and clear of any potential damage while parked. This means your premiums could tumble. Similarly, if you can park in a secure area at work, letting your insurer know can bring the price down too.

Pay annually – if you can afford to

Monthly payments are a great option for those on a budget, but the total price when paying monthly is often noticeably higher than paying the annual insurance in one lump sum. If you can afford to pay for a full year’s cover in one go, you’ll save in the long run. Of course, only do this if you know you can afford to. Taking out bank loans or using a credit card will end up costing more than a monthly direct debit.

Take a Pass Plus course

Pass Plus courses are great for any motorist – new or old. If you’re fresh on the roads, it can give you more in-depth experience behind the wheel while still having the safety of a qualified instructor in the passenger seat. Those with more experience can still take a Pass Plus and refresh themselves on the rules of the road and eradicate any bad habits. Insurers recognise the benefits of Pass Plus courses and offer discounts for those who have taken them. You’re a safer and more experienced driver in their eyes, making you less of a risk.

Don’t be afraid to shop around

As convenient as it may be to head onto a price comparison site and pick the cheapest deal from there for your insurance, it’s not going to save you much money. Use that as a starting point, and then don’t be afraid to pick up the phone. Tell one insurer of another’s prices and see if they’ll offer a better deal – and if they do, go back to the first and let them know. You could knock hundreds of pounds off your premium with an hour of calls if you’re savvy enough.

by James Baggot

MOTORS & LEISURE

The Transformative Power OF A GAROLLA GARAGE DOOR

Operating nationwide, Garolla has fast become a household name in garage door renovations. Transforming the homes of Telford and beyond, Garolla’s attention to detail and unbeatable workmanship is revolutionising the garage door industry. Hand-made by experienced experts, every roller garage door is manufactured at Garolla headquarters and must pass strenuous quality-control checks before it is fitted by a skilful professional. Comprised of strong, high quality aluminium a Garolla garage door is easy to use and saves valuable floor space thanks to its unique design. Utilising a patented locking system, high strength locks and twin walled aluminium slats a Garolla garage door protects your belongings and keeps them safe from attack, giving you complete peace of mind. Available in 18 colours, you can now design an electric garage door that is a true definition of your personal style and tastes. With unbeatable transformative powers, these garage doors brighten up your exteriors and give your home a modern and stylish appearance. With an up-front price promise there’s no hidden costs with Garolla, just reasonable prices all year round. Available on the website, the price is inclusive of measuring, fitting and VAT. They will even remove your old door for you free of charge. To find out more information visit www.garolla.co.uk or call their friendly customer care team on 0800 468 1982.

Be Prepared Do you recall the weather we had a mere eight weeks before the start of last year’s hot spell? The “Beast from the East” dumped snow across the UK. And we had to drive in it. It’s said every year, but it is worth repeating: a little preparation time on your car will pay dividends if the “Beast” comes back.

WINTER IS COMING Check your vehicle’s lights work, windows are clear, wipers work, fluids are full, the battery is charged, and your tyres are in good and legal condition. On this last point you could consider changing to winter tyres, as they have proven benefits when the temperature drops below 5 degrees. Alternatively, I have found a pair of snow socks around the driving wheels of my car a viable, if short-term, alternative. When making a journey it’s wise to take the following: warning triangle, a torch, boots, deicer, ice scraper and a fully charged phone, perhaps with spare battery pack. Some recommend taking a tow rope and shovel too; if you are likely to use country lanes then yes, but on a trip to the shops, perhaps not. If you must make a long journey, even via the motorway network, and snow has fallen or is expected, take a blanket and a hot drink in a flask. We have all heard the stories of blocked motorways, the resultant tailbacks and motorists spending a freezing night on the hard shoulder. Being prepared is the watch word in winter.

by Iain Betson

Health

THE MOST EFECTIVE DRUG EVER? Increase your self-esteem Not only can exercise improve your fitness and appearance, making you feel better about yourself, it can also give you goals, a routine and a sense of achievement. These factors can work together to increase your self-esteem.

Improve the length and quality of your sleep Poor sleep can contribute significantly to physical health issues and depression, anxiety, poor memory and concentration. Exercise can improve your sleep patterns.

Improve your mental health Exercise is good for your mental health. Alongside its effects on your mood, self-esteem and sleep patterns, it’s also been proven to help alleviate anxiety, stress and mild to moderate depression. One study showed that just 10 minutes of brisk walking can increase mental alertness, energy and positivity, while another found that increasing your activity levels from zero to exercising at least three times a week can reduce your risk of depression by almost 20%.

“If exercise were a pill, it would be one of the most cost-effective drugs ever invented,” says health promotion consultant Dr Nick Cavill. That’s true, because the benefits of exercise go way beyond what many people think of as simple ‘fitness’. Physical Health Benefits

Improve your sex life Research shows that more active men and women have more sex. By improving your self-esteem, fitness and flexibility, regular exercise may increase your desire for, and enjoyment of, sex. Studies have shown that regular exercise may enhance arousal for women and that men who exercise regularly are less likely to have problems with erectile dysfunction than men who don’t.

Give you ‘time off’

• Increases the mass and strength of muscle (including that most important of muscles, the heart) and cardiovascular endurance.

You may not think of exercise as relaxing, but it can be. Not all exercise involves getting hot, sweaty and out of breath (although you do need to do some activity every week that makes you feel this way.). Tai chi, Pilates and yoga are all more relaxing forms of exercise. However, any exercise you do can take you away from your day-to-day concerns and give you time to focus on you, rather than your family, your work or your worries. The need to focus on your exercise can be a welcome distraction and give your brain a break.

• Increases flexibility and helps to prevent strains and injuries.

Give you the chance to get outdoors

• Helps regulate hormones that control your appetite, body clock, sleep and blood sugar.

Ecotherapy is becoming more widely used as research proves the benefits of being out in the countryside. You may not always be able to exercise in a rural spot, but getting outside to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine is great for your mental and physical health; some sunshine is necessary for us to produce Vitamin D which, among other things, is essential for absorption of calcium and good bone health.

Exercise can actively help you to prevent disease and debility. Research has proved that regular exercise: • Lowers your blood pressure (and in turn lowers your risk of stroke, heart attack, heart failure and kidney disease).

• Helps control our weight. • Helps prevent some cancers (reducing colon cancer risk by up to 30% and breast cancer risk by up to 20%). • Helps prevent some diseases, including Type II diabetes and Alzheimer’s (reducing dementia risk by up to 30% and delaying decline in sufferers, and reducing Type II diabetes risk by up to 50%). • Helps strengthen your bones and prevent osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. • Helps you handle the physical exertion of daily activities and improves your balance, helping to prevent falls. • Helps ease pain through the release of endorphins. • Improves bowel function and helps prevent constipation. By reducing your risk of early death from preventable conditions and falls, exercise can increase your longevity too. However, it can do a lot more than just improve your physical health.

Mental Health and Wellbeing Benefits Exercise can:

Improve your mood The endorphins released when you exercise can lift your mood and increase your energy levels.

Put more fun in your life Experiment with different forms of exercise and you may discover one that you actually find fun, whether that’s country bike rides, Zumba or a sport. This makes exercise something you look forward to, rather than a chore.

Improve your social life and family life If you join exercise classes or activity groups, you will benefit from the positive effects that socialising can have on your health and wellbeing. There may be related social activities and you could make new friends. You can also exercise with your family and, if you have children, becoming fitter will help you to take part in more of their fun and games. Team sports can also provide a sense of belonging and motivate you to improve and help your team become successful. Zumba, tennis, surfing, swimming, rowing, boxing, karate, netball, Pilates, ballroom dancing… there are many types of sport and exercise, so keep an open mind and try out several to find something you enjoy.

by Alison Runham

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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; Curtain Cleaning

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WEBSITE DESIGN

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Home Sweet Home in 2019? Are common mortgage myths preventing you from making your dream home move a reality? Myth 1 - You need a large deposit to buy

So, whether you’re a first time buyer, looking to move home or looking to remortgage for a better rate or to raise capital for home improvements, the easiest way to understand your options is to seek professional advice.

You can borrow with as little as a 5% deposit, subject to your credit score. However having a larger deposit is useful as it will provide you access to better interest rates and can provide more choice of providers.

At CD Financial we can advise and recommend the most appropriate solution to help you make your dream move a reality.

Myth 2 - You can’t get a mortgage if you’re self employed

Saturday 19th January 19 – Lawley Office

As long as you can provide accounts to evidence your selfemployed income obtaining a mortgage can be straight forward. You will ideally need two years accounts to prove your income, but there are lenders that will consider applications where only 12 months accounts are available.

For general information or an informal conversation drop into one of our mortgage clinic events which we are hosting on; Saturday 26th January 19 – Shifnal Office Visit our website www.cdfinancial.co.uk or our Facebook page for more information on our services and mortgage clinic events.

Myth 3 - You can’t get a mortgage if you have debts Debts will reduce your borrowing capacity, which can be restrictive, but doesn’t prevent you from borrowing.

Myth 4 - You need a perfect credit score to get a mortgage Not having a perfect credit score doesn’t prevent you from obtaining a mortgage. There are even lenders that will consider applicants who have had defaults, CCJs & bankruptcies. However you may find depending on your credit score and level of credit issues you will need a larger deposit & mortgages rates available are likely to be higher & your choice of lender maybe limited.

FINANCIAL LTD

ITCHING TO GET INTO YOUR DREAM HOME? o First Time Buyers o Home Movers o Help to Buy o Right to Buy o Shared Ownership o Help to Buy refinance o Re-mortgages o Buy to Let

Talk to CD Financial about your mortgage options and let us help scratch that itch! ....Call us on 01952 455775 to book your Free, No Obligation Initial Consultation Shifnal Head Office: 4 Church Street · Shifnal · TF11 9AA

Lawley Office: Birchfield Way · Telford · TF3 5BZ

w www.cdfinancial.co.uk m contact@cdfinancial.co.uk CD Financial Limited is an appointed representative of Openwork Limited which is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE. Our fee for arranging a mortgage is £195.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Are you Really Saving Yourself Money? Rachel Wood is a Senior Associate Solicitor who specialises in Wills, Probate and Lasting Powers of Attorney at Terry Jones Solicitors, who have offices in Telford, Shrewsbury, Newport and Bridgnorth. Rachel Wood comments “In an age where we have access to the internet, it may be tempting to prepare a homemade Will or administer a deceased estate yourself without recourse to a Solicitor. However, by doing this, are you really saving yourself money? “A problem with a homemade Will is only usually identified after death. Whilst some problems may be able to be subsequently rectified, it is at a cost which is probably a significant amount more than the cost of a Solicitor preparing a Will in the first instance. There may also be some problems that cannot be rectified in which case the Will and the wishes of the deceased will fail. “Acting as an Executor of an estate can

also give rise to costly errors, which was recently highlighted in the news. An Executor incorrectly distributed the deceased’s estate without ensuring that the correct amount of Inheritance Tax had been paid. The liability fell to the Executor personally to pay the Tax due. Whilst the Executor challenged the decision through the Courts that he should not personally be held responsible, the Courts upheld that it is the Executor who is personally liable to pay the Inheritance Tax”. At Terry Jones Solicitors, we can assist in the preparation of Wills and with the administration of an estate on behalf of an Executor. For further information, please contact Rachel Wood at rachelw@ terry-jones.co.uk or on 01952 297979.

Rachel Wood

Finance

SPOT THE PENSION SCAMMERS at a certain percentage are available, or perhaps that you’ll receive higher returns from the investment product they’re offering, but this is not the case. They may also say their investment strategy is low risk, but a low-risk strategy is not associated with high returns.

Time-limited offers

Scammers sometimes pressurise their victims into signing quickly, saying it’s a time-limited offer. They may even arrange for a courier to deliver their documents and then wait until you sign them. This gives you little time to go through the documents properly, and to carefully consider what you’re doing.

Tax loopholes

Pension fraudsters might say they know of tax loopholes, or ways in which you could make extra savings on tax. There are no tax loopholes with legitimate pension arrangements.

Withholding contact details Since new regulations were introduced in 2015 allowing greater pension freedoms, criminals have been targeting retirees, and those approaching retirement, in an attempt to fraudulently exploit the system. Figures published by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) show that victims of pension scams lost £91,000 each on average in 2017, with more than 30% of pension holders aged 45-65 being unaware of how to check that they’re dealing with a legitimate pension adviser.1 So how do you know if you’re being targeted by pension scammers?

Unexpected contact

Unsolicited contact by someone offering advice on your pension is likely to be a scam. They may claim to be backed by the government, but no legitimate pension-related organisation or adviser would cold-call you. This type of contact could also be made by email, text, post or in person.

Free pension review

A common tactic used by scammers, and one that gives them access to a considerable amount of personal and financial information, is offering a free pension review. If you’re under 55 they may try to persuade you to take your pension early; otherwise it could be with a view to transferring your pension into a fraudulent or unregulated scheme.

Releasing pension monies early

If you’re under the age of 55, pension scammers may tell you it’s possible to access your pension early. This isn’t the case unless you meet certain, very limited, criteria regarding your health. Withdrawing your pension below the age of 55 will trigger a tax liability of 55% of the amount withdrawn. You may also lose your pension entirely if the proposed new scheme/investment plan is fraudulent or unregulated, and still face this tax charge.

Higher/guaranteed returns

One of the fundamental aspects of investing is that there are no firm guarantees. Scammers may tell you guaranteed returns

If they don’t want you to call them back, have limited contact information available, only a mobile phone number or a PO Box address, for example, you should cease communications with them straight away.

Pension scammer common phrases

These are some of the words and phrases used to con people out of their hard-earned pensions (they could all be used at any time during the con process): • Tax loophole: relating to the early withdrawal of pension funds. • Sophisticated investor: often when trying to sell products ‘not traditionally available’. • Free-of-charge: in relation to pension reviews and transfers. • This offer won’t last long/you need to sign quickly/we’ll send a courier with your documents: high pressure selling tactics. • Pension loan/savings advance/cash incentive: in relation to unlocking a pension before you’re 55.

What can you do if you think you’re being targeted by scammers?

• Simply hang up the phone and block their number if you believe you’re being targeted. Ignore any email messages or text communications. • Check the FCA Register – this contains firms authorised to provide pension and other financial advice. If they’re on the register, make sure the contact details match those provided by the FCA. • Contact Pension Wise or the Pensions Advisory Service for free, impartial advice and guidance. • Report it to the FCA on 0800 111 6768, and Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. • Contact your own pension provider – they may still be able to block a transfer of monies. Hopefully, being aware of the common tactics used by pension scammers, and when they’re likely to be used, will offer some protection, and help you avoid becoming one of the unfortunate and startling statistics. www.fca.org.uk/news/press-releases/regulators-warnpublic-pension-scammer-tactics-victims-report-losingaverage-91000-2017 1

by Ann Haldon

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Free Will Writing Service Parry Carver Solicitors are supporting Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s Free Will Writing Service, which is available for those aged 55 and over. Whether you are looking to make your first Will or update an existing one, it’s important that you properly plan your financial affairs to ensure your loved ones are looked after. Talk to us at Parry Carver today about having your Will written for free, for that extra peace of mind.

7 Church Street, Wellington, Telford TF1 1BX

The Forum, Victoria Road, Shifnal TF11 8FE

Tel: 01952 641 291

Tel: 01952 460 777

Mon - Fri 8.30am - 5pm Sat 9am - 12pm

Mon - Fri 8.30am - 5pm Sat by appointment

Authorised & regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority - Parry Carver SRA 71413

EKM Legal Services

WORKING IN A MODERN AND FRIENDLY WAY

I am thrilled to write this, my very first article introducing my own specialist firm. Whilst the company may be new, many of you may know me from my previous appointments within two well respected organisations in Shropshire, Terry Jones Solicitors and the Legal 500 firm FBC Manby Bowdler. It is the nurturing and guidance I received whilst in these positions that gave me the confidence and tools to make a dream a reality, setting up my own business. Combining valuable, long term, experience with a customer-focused approach, I will be working to support you in a truly modern way. My diary will move to suit your diary, modern 'non 9-5' flexibility. The firm specialises in all matters relating to Private Client law including Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Administration of Estates. With an in depth knowledge of this area of law, spanning over 20 years, and the experience I have gained from acting for all types of clients, from young families to high net worth business and agricultural individuals & families, I offer each specialist advice enabling their requirements to be achieved in a straightforward, concise and easy to understand manner. As an introductory offer, with presentation of this article, the firm is offering a free Will, Lasting Power of Attorney and Estate planning review until the end of February 2019. Make that New Year's Resolution now to get your affairs in order.

E K M Legal Services Ltd • Wills • Estate Administration • Powers of Attorney

Advice you can trust Contact us on 07786 543813 or info@ekmlegalservices.co.uk

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To make an appointment please call 07786 Elizabeth McEvilly 543813 or email info@ekmlegalservices.co.uk. Director

Finding Love

FIXING HEARTBREAK Let New People In It can be tempting to go straight down the online dating route. After all, everyone you meet is looking for a partner too, right? Unfortunately not. Some online daters aren’t single or honest about themselves and may only be looking for sex. There’s also a lot of pressure when you’re meeting for the first time solely to evaluate romantic potential; it’s much more intense than meeting someone naturally and then gradually getting to know them, with more time to evaluate your feelings. Give it a go – but do so with caution.

Valentine’s Day makes love hard to avoid, but that’s no bad thing: research shows we’re generally healthier, happier and live longer if we’re in a relationship. Yet break-ups and dysfunctional relationships can be devastating. Here are tips from the experts on starting new relationships and surviving breakups while remaining mentally healthy. Ready for a New Relationship? Experts Relate point out that relationships can be wonderful, but also hard work, requiring perseverance and a willingness to adapt. Are there current stresses in your life that could skew your judgment or prevent you putting in the time a relationship requires? Are you looking for a relationship to solve a problem? Beware. Are you over your last partnership? You probably both did things that contributed to the relationship’s decline, so think about them to avoid making the same mistakes again. “Being able to acknowledge and accept our part in both the making and the breaking of the relationship can help us to understand what we’re good at – and what we perhaps find difficult,” advises Relate.

What Kind of Relationship? How serious do you want your next partnership to be and what are your make or break points: marriage, children, relocation etc? What kind of partner do you want or need (not always the same thing)? “Usually, you tend to have more satisfying and longer-lasting liaisons with people that share your values,” Relate advises. Think about your ethics, attitudes, and how you live your life. What role do faith, family and gender roles play? How do you choose to spend your money and free time? Sharing the same sense of humour can be a sign you’re on the same page and for most of us, it’s important to have at least a spark of physical attraction too. While it’s important to think about the kind of person who might make you happy, beware creating a profile of your perfect person and searching exclusively for them.

Widening your social circle is a great way to increase your chances of meeting a potential partner. Try volunteering, reconnecting with old friends or colleagues, or joining a group connected to a new or existing interest. This can help you build your confidence and self-esteem and allows you to meet people for the first time in relaxed circumstances.

Hold on to You Try not to rush headlong into a new relationship, spending all your time with your new love and abandoning everything and everyone else. Keep doing the things you enjoy and seeing the friends and family who make you happy. If you don’t exist outside your relationship, what can you bring to it? What will you talk about? Living like this can lessen your self-esteem (and in turn, lessen your appeal as a partner or friend). Crucially, it can also make it far harder to cope with a break-up or bereavement.

Survive a Break-Up “It’s not what happens to you in life that defines you; it’s what you do about it,” says Sara Davison, author of Uncoupling. “Breaking up is one part of your life experience; don’t let it be the main event.” Sara’s Four Keys to Surviving and Thriving after a break-up are: 1. Taking Responsibility (for your part in what’s happened). 2. .... Getting Clarity (about your feelings, the practicalities you need to sort out and who can support you). 3. Taking Back Control (rather than “living life in reaction”). 4. Focusing On Moving Forward Positively. Talk to people you trust and consider counselling; talking to someone neutral, who knows neither of you, can be a real help. Allow yourself to feel and express emotions, but spend time thinking about what you want and what you’re going to change in your life for next time, advises Sara. “Because there will be a next time. You just have to be ready and strong enough to embrace it.”

Further Help: Sara Davidson, Uncoupling: How to survive and thrive after breakup and divorce, Piatkus Relate: www.relate.org.uk

by Alison Runham

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Telford Laundry LINEN AND WORKWEAR RENTAL

Home Laundry Service Telford Laundry provides collection and delivery right to your door; collecting on a regular basis or just on special occasions when you have loads of extra laundry. With Telford Laundry’s own fleet of vehicles you can be confident that your regular driver will collect and drop off your laundry items in the way that you would like. Telford Laundry drivers will arrange a convenient collection and drop off point for you which can include your place of work. Quality and professional laundry services are provided for bedroom linen – including bulky items such as duvets, bedspreads and sleeping bags, bathroom laundry and household items such as curtains and cushion covers. Talk to Telford Laundry about their professional dry cleaning service for men’s suits and wedding dresses.

Find out more...

Laundry Collection or drop off at B3 Stafford Park 11, Telford

Call: 01952 216 053 On-site Services at Your Home: • Dry Carpet Cleaning Removes Spills, Spots, Smells & Odours Deep cleans and lifts carpet pile – like new We leave your carpets clean, fresh and ready to use!

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The NLG are proud of the quality services provided and we believe th the core requirements is a well-trained and highly motivated workforce group companies participate in the Textile Services Association accre 67 training scheme.

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Displaying Art

IN YOUR HOME

– or to create a larger grouping of pieces that work together, by colour, theme or subject matter. Pairs of complementary pictures make a nicely symmetrical display and work well in a traditional setting, while informal groups, perhaps with a variety of frames and hung asymmetrically, create a sense of intimacy and individuality. Another option is to group works that are the same size and shape, and framed identically, in closely packed rows, creating a formal design that is particularly well suited to a dining room or a hallway.

The soft pinkish-brown of Temple sets this modern painting off beautifully. £48.50 for 2.5l Pure Flat Emulsion, Paint & Paper Library: 0845 880 5844; paintandpaperlibrary.com.

More than just a finishing touch, hanging art on your walls is the essential addition to any room, immediately transforming it into a personal space. Some would even argue that a decorating scheme should be built around a work of art from the start. It is wise, then, not to treat art as just an afterthought, but to give as much care and attention to choosing and hanging drawings, paintings and photographs as you would to choosing fabrics and furnishings. Start by identifying the optimal locations for the works. Above the mantelpiece in the sitting room is often a good spot, but any room in which you spend a lot of time is ideal, whether it be the kitchen (away from humidity and splashes, of course), family room or conservatory, so you can enjoy a favourite piece as much as possible. Bear in mind that direct sunlight can damage precious works, so use special protective glass if necessary, or try to find a more suitable spot. Size is important. Bigger pieces, quite obviously, need an expansive space in which to shine (and enough room to step back and admire them), while smaller works may look odd when hung on their own on a large wall. The solution to the latter is either to find a niche wall on which to hang a smaller work – perhaps above a bedside table or next to a cosy armchair

While a white wall behind paintings or photographs confers an art-gallery style atmosphere, it is by no means the only choice of backdrop. Depending on the effect you desire, you could pick a colour from the painting in question and replicate it in the colour of your walls, or even hang works against wallpaper (again, using complementary colours). If you do not wish to draw too much attention to the walls, pick a small pattern to use as a backdrop to a sizeable work. It is always beneficial to light works of art so they can be seen properly after dark – even if it is simply a case of adjusting a table or floor lamp to cast a glow towards them. For a more formal, professional effect, custom lighting is ideal, using either traditional picture lights fitted above the work or a discreet track and spotlight. Experts recommend using LED bulbs because they don’t heat up, use little energy and are very small; it is worth experimenting with the colour ‘temperature’ of the bulb, ensuring that it is neither too ‘cold’ and white or too ‘warm’ and yellow. And if you wish to get into the real detail, choose a bulb that has excellent colour rendition (the ability to show true colours) at 95CRI or above.

A collection of Virserum frames, from £5 each, Ikea: 020 3645 0000; ikea.com/gb

How high to hang? This can be tricky, and everyone will have a personal preference. It will also be dictated by the size and shape of the piece, the proportions of the room, including ceiling height, and the surroundings in general. That said, many people hang works of art higher than necessary – especially when considering that one is often sitting down when looking at them. It may help to consider that museums and galleries typically hang modern works at 1.55m to the centre line of the picture (Old Masters, if you were wondering, go a little higher) – roughly equivalent to the average human eye line. The advent of damagefree hanging strips and hooks has revolutionised the process of picture hanging, in that if you are not happy, you can simply try again. So don’t be afraid to experiment until you get it right, and you can enjoy an impressive and attractive display of art on your walls.

The Island Breeze bedroom collection is available with contrasting oak tops or painted all over in a choice of contemporary colours. Chest of drawers, £699; small wardrobe with drawer, £749; low-foot bed frame, from £489; small bedside chest, £225; all The Painted Furniture Company: 01285 656 041; paintedfurnitureco.co.uk.

by Kathrine Sorrell

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

INNOVATION, INDIVIDUALITY AND DESIGN Quality building contractor and designers based in Shropshire

ALL CONSTRUCTION WORK UNDERTAKEN View our latest projects on our instagram page or visit our website for more details.

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Louka Fine Finish Ltd t: 07383 011901 e: sean@louka.co.uk 69

Regent House After a very successful 5 years on Gnosall high street, Regent House is now spreading it’s wings and expanding across the border in to Newport. Work has begun at 32 St Mary’s Street stripping back the building to a shell so we can get installing our displays.

With so much more room available to us, we will be able to showcase so much more than we already do. We are planning 4 kitchen displays, 5 bathroom areas and some fitted bedroom furniture to help inspire you. As a recognised Second Nature dealer we are super excited to be able to showcase some fabulous kitchen displays from the new ranges. Between our two sites we can demonstrate a range of Hotpoint, NEFF, Siemens and Bosch appliances and help you choose the right one for you.

IS COMING TO NEWPORT! a full renovation project we can help. From design stage right through to completion we will be on hand offering top quality advice. We can provide fitters, plumbers, electricians and plasterers making the whole project run smoothly.

Kitchens are our forte, but we also excel in other projects. If you have an idea, we can help bring it to life, in November this year we completed a project with a model railway enthusiast to help improve his set up, that’s a job we never thought we’d be approached with! But we left with a very happy customer. We are hoping to open January 2019 and look forward to welcoming you to our new showroom, and if you can’t wait that long, feel free to pop in to our Gnosall showroom and see what we can do for you. Our new website www.regenthousedesign.com has some pictures of recent projects we have completed, and also previews of ranges we can install.

Whether you are looking to make a few tweaks in your property, or

Get in touch with us today for a no obligation free quote.

Regent House Design & Developments Ltd Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Specialists

42 High Street, Gnosall, Stafford ST20 0EX Tel. 01785 822292 • www.regenthousedesign.com • Monday - Friday 9am—5pm.

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

A LUXURY KITCHEN OR BATHROOM

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Call Sal T: 01952 610999 M: 07976 467 830 www.kitchensbyrandr.co.uk

R&R Services Ltd, Unit B4, Stafford Park 15, Telford TF3 3BB

R&R Kitchens & Bathrooms

Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 4pm

Est 1982

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Impressive Showroom at: 1 Madeley Road, Ironbridge, Telford TF8 7PP

Does Cupid Love Tech It’s that time of year again: the restaurants are packed, florists are working around the clock and garages are eagerly anticipating the lastminute purchasing of flowers by people who forgot Valentine’s Day. But if you don’t want to say it with flowers or chocolate, can you say it with tech instead? The trick is to find technology that actually delivers something your beloved will want. It’s really expensive, but Dyson’s new hairdryer is a great example: the £299 Supersonic isn’t just a machine for drying hair but a genuine time machine, because it does the job so well its owner can spend less time drying and more time doing fun stuff. Not all beauty tech is a good present idea – steer clear of anything to do with hair removal or weight loss if you value your life – but luxury products such as high-tech hair dryers, straighteners and stylers are often good. Luxury technology isn’t just about making yourself look nice, though. It can be about relaxing too. We’re big fans of noise-cancelling headphones, a real boon for people who regularly travel on trains or planes: they analyse the ambient noise and create a pattern to drown it out. You can spend nearly £300 on high-end phones such as Bose’s QuietComfort 35 and they’re worth every penny, but you can get pretty good sets for a lot less: Bose’s QuietComfort 25 are currently £129, while Sony’s awfully named WH-CH700N are just £79.99 at the time of writing. Another good option is a Kindle or Kindle Fire tablet, both of which are made by Amazon. The former is a dedicated ebook reader and the latter is a surprisingly good budget tablet that includes the Kindle app but also enables you to watch video and listen to music. The seven-inch model fits in big pockets and average handbags and is constantly on special offer: through November it was £39.99, down from the usual £59.99, and Amazon is constantly cutting its price during the rest of the year too. If a £399 Apple Watch is out of your price range, the Nokia-owned Withings brand makes some very lovely watches that double as activity trackers. Forget the RRP because these watches are very heavily discounted – for example, the really pretty Activité Pop has an RRP of £109 but is widely available for as little as £35 if you go for the blue or pink models. What if your beloved already has all the tech they want? As the old joke goes, you can buy the person who has everything a box to put it in – or rather, a case. Whether it’s a Kindle or an iPad, a Galaxy Note 9 or an iPhone XS, there’s a dizzying range of cases including some from well-known designers. Just watch if you’re buying leather cases: many supposedly leather cases are made of bonded leather, a faux leather that doesn’t wear like real leather does.

Images top to bottom Dyson supersonic hair dryer Sony noise cancelling headphones WH-CH700N Withings activite smart watch Amazon Kindle e-reader

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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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.

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The Local Distributor & Installer for For more information visit: www.stira.co.uk

D O C K

CALL TO ARRANGE A FREE QUOTE

T: 01952 282152 or 07817 431505

Facebook: jakesnladders

Daylite Group Daylite Group, Shropshire’s number one for UPVC & Aluminium Windows, doors, conservatories and orangeries. As well as stocking a wide range of UPVC building plastic materials and roofline products. After celebrating 10 years in business during 2017, they have fast become a leading supplier and installer of home improvement and energy efficient products throughout Shropshire. Their trade counter and showroom based on Ketley Business Park is open to both Trade custom and DIY enthusiasts where you can sample and purchase many of the products on offer. WINDOWS -DOORS – CONSERVATORIES UPVC: Daylite offer the awardwinning PROFILE 22 OPTIMA systems all of which are available in a wide range of colours and finishes, all items are bespoke and made to order coming complete with some of the best guarantees in the industry. Aluminium: Rapidly becoming more and more popular their Aluminium products just like the UPVC, are built to stand the test of time. Their

LEADING SUPPLIER & INSTALLER

WARMCORE range is available in a vast range of profile finishes and as it’s Powder coated the colour choice is endless. Again these products are complete with no quibble guarantees for full peace of mind. Their complete range of glazing products include, Windows, Doors, Conservatories, Orangeries, Composite Doors, Bi-fold doors, Lantern roofs & Guardian Warmroofs BUILDING PLASTICS & ROOFLINE MATERIALS Ready to take away or have delivered to site they have many products on offer. Underground & above ground drainage, fascias, soffits, guttering, cladding, rainwater drainage, Firestone rubber roofing, polycarbonate sheets and roof kits, carports, canopies, Composite decking, Artificial grass, shower panels, decorative cladding, window trims, silicones & adhesives, screws & fixings & Much more. They deal with some of the biggest manufacturers In the industry. The chances are, if it’s UPVC or maintenance free they will be able to help! For more information visit them in store or online.

Daylite Group, Units 15 & 16 Ketley Business Park, Telford TF1 5JD sales@daylitegroup.co.uk • www.daylitegroup.co.uk • 01952 240402 Mon - Fri: 8:00am - 5:00pm Saturday: 8:30am - 12:00pm

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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The Changing Face

By 1971, TV was so integral to our lives that, according to Joe Moran’s Armchair Nation, “Ten per cent of homes still had no indoor lavatory or bath, 31% had no fridge and 62% had no telephone, but only 9% had no TV.” Yet back then we were watching just 3 channels. The launch of satellite TV in the UK in 1989 brought Sky One, Sky News, Sky Movies, Eurosport, MTV, Screensport, Lifestyle and The Children’s Channel on air (along with porn channels swiftly banned by Parliament). Suddenly, we were spoilt for choice. As the ‘90s progressed, we began to pay for that extra choice but were offered more channels and access to Premier League matches. We were enjoying EastEnders, Coronation Street and Only Fools and Horses, alongside US shows destined to become iconic: Friends on Channel 4 and The X-Files and The Simpsons on Sky. Sky brought us Digital in 1999, with 160 channels and innovative interactive services, and soon after, Sky+. We could now pause live TV to make a cuppa – and record it without a VHS or DVD recorder! Telewest offered a rival digital cable subscription service while Freeview, and later Freesat, boxes offered a range of free channels (including some from Sky). During the noughties, we watched reality TV like Big Brother, Wife Swap and their back-to-basics stablemates Ray Mears’ Bushcraft and Castaway 2000; fell in love with BBC’s rebooted Dr Who; and became hooked on hit dramas like Spooks (BBC), Lost (CH4) and 24 (Sky One). The talent and contest show reboot brought us the X Factor, Britain’s Got Talent, Pop Idol

OF TELEVISION

and Strictly Come Dancing. By 2008, there were 9 million British Sky subscribers, with 500,000 watching in HD. But the disruptive force of TV streaming was on its way. Netflix launched its UK service in 2012 and has produced original content with the hugely popular series Stranger Things. Having bought Lovefilm in 2011, Amazon morphed it into its new Prime Video streaming service in 2014 and has produced its own hits too, including Outlander and The Man in the High Castle. Both companies have also rescued programmes unpopularly dropped by other channels, such as BBC’s Ripper Street (Amazon) and Fox’s Lucifer (Netflix). Rival streamer Hulu scored its own original hit with The Handmaid’s Tale. However, ‘normal’ TV can still hold an audience, producing smart thrillers like Sherlock and Broadchurch and the unlikely hit, The Great British Bake Off, on terrestrial TV, while satellite delivers epic sci-fi and fantasy with the phenomenally successful Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead. TV has brought triumphs and tragedies such as war, the moon landing, terrorist attacks and royal weddings into our homes, as well as entertainment, and today, we don’t even need a TV ‘set’ to watch it. But if you don’t own one, then I have to ask, in the words of Joey from Friends: “What does your furniture point at?” Further reading: Joe Moran Armchair Nation: An intimate history of Britain in front of the TV, Profile Books

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Don't move... improve!

Create that extra living space that you and your family deserve with one of our fabulous orangeries designed to suit you and your growing family's needs

THE COMPLETE HOME IMPROVEMENT COMPANY At R&R Services we specialise in creating that perfect living space within your existing home. Your garage could be converted in as little as 2 weeks into that extra room that you have always promised yourself.

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The Door Store @ Classic Fasteners (Est. 1991) Units 6&7, Redland Industrial Estate, Off Station Hill, Oakengates, Telford TF2 9JX 77

Taking Back Control

While more employers are offering flexible working, few jobs give you the freedom of running your own business. Self-employment doesn’t suit everyone. For a start, there’s no sick pay, no holiday pay and no regular salary. However, if you’re fed up of juggling childcare and missing out on time with your kids, it’s well worth considering. Flexible hours

If you’re a freelancer, you can usually fit your work around the kids. (I’m writing this article in the hairdresser’s while my son gets his hair cut.) If work is quiet and you fancy taking the kids to the beach after school, you can. On the downside, if you’ve got a lot of work on, you can end up working late into the night, or at weekends.

Attracting customers

You’ll need a plan for attracting customers. That plan is likely to include creating and updating a website, attending networking events, contacting people through social media and searching for opportunities through LinkedIn and other platforms. If you’re a graphic designer, you could contact local design agencies to let them know you’re available. If you make artisan handbags, you could sell them through Etsy, Not on the High Street or Folksy. You’ll need to factor in the platform’s fees as part of your costs. It also takes time to gain those all important reviews and you’ll be competing against a lot of other small businesses. If you can, start working on your business part-time, before you leave your job, and build up some savings to see you through lean periods.

GOING FREELANCE

Finding your ‘tribe’

It’s worth connecting with other freelancers for ideas, inspiration and ‘tea break’ chat. There are hundreds of networking events across the UK but some are little more than money-making schemes, so try a few before you commit to a membership. You might also want to sign up to forums, social media pages and groups in your industry. You could also team up with other professionals to bid for bigger projects. A plumber, electrician, decorator and builder might work together on house extensions, for example. I’m a member of The Hoxby Collective – a global team of freelancers (from copywriters and designers to accountants) who work together to deliver projects. Hoxby co-founder, Lizzie Penny, explains, “When Alex Hirst and I set up The Hoxby Collective, it was partly because I wanted to spend more time with my family. Some of the best talent was being excluded from the workforce because of geographical location, parental responsibility or a myriad of other reasons. We believe people should be able to fit their work around their lives and not the other way round.”

Useful Links:

• www.wix.com and www.squarespace.com make designing a website easy. • www.canva.com offers lots of design templates you can customise to create posters, social media memes, leaflets and more. • www.hmrc.gov.uk will give you the lowdown on tax. • www.enterprisenation.com and www.fsb.org.uk have lots of advice for small businesses. • www.hoxby.com is where to head if you want to join a team of freelancers from across the globe. • www.eventbrite.co.uk is the place to look for local business events.

by Kate Duggan

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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Are Ageing Lines

A GOOD THING?

have had both BOTOX® and fillers and at 55 I feel it has totally freshened my face … People should not be condemned for wanting to feel confident”), ‘JEMH’ comments: “My wife’s not interested, so she won’t get that ‘rabbit in the headlights’ startled look that some of our friends have got after too much BOTOX®.”

Preventative measures

Walk into certain high street chemist stores nowadays and you might come away with more than toothpaste, deodorant and bubble bath. Once you’ve filled your basket with all the usual health and beauty products, you can slip into a private room for a BOTOX® injection. BOTOX® has been around as a cosmetic treatment since the early Nineties, when it was hailed as a miracle anti-aging procedure. The procedure eases out ‘dynamic’ facial wrinkles (created by muscle contractions) by paralysing the muscle underlying the wrinkle, resulting in a smooth and more youthful appearance that can last up to four months. Its discovery dates back to 1820, when a German medical officer first identified Botulinum (which gives its name to BOTOX®) as a lethal toxin. Fortunately, despite such scary credentials, the cosmetic use of BOTOX® is considered completely safe provided it is properly administered.

By public demand?

Superdrug’s new ‘Skin Renew’ initiative, which brings antiaging treatments to the high street, is part of a wider beauty marketing trend designed to persuade us that non-surgical cosmetic treatments such as BOTOX®, dermal fillers and chemical peels should be considered part of a normal beauty routine. Caris Newson, Head of Superdrug’s Health and Wellbeing Services, insists that the firm is only “listening to what people are telling us they would like” following feedback from 10,000 customers, but the initiative has been criticised by the British Association of Aesthetic and Plastic Surgeons, who say that customers could suffer from skin infections or even permanent muscle paralysis if treatments are not administered correctly. So should these treatments now be considered ‘normal’? And does their increased availability step up the pressure on women and men who are concerned about signs of aging to routinely undergo invasive procedures? On the website silversurfers. com opinions are divided. While silver surfer ‘KarenF’ is happy to endorse the feel-good effects of non-surgical treatments (“I

Controversially, Superdrug’s ‘Skin Renew’ service is available to customers over twenty-five, and this has led to accusations that the company is encouraging younger people to seek unnecessary treatment. Jane Ainsworth, posting on the gransnet.com website, is concerned about the effect Superdrug’s offer might have on the young: “What I don’t like is the way that women in their twenties and thirties are persuaded that they should have BOTOX®/fillers as a preventative measure, to stop wrinkles developing. That does cross a line for me. Using cosmetic procedures in a preventative way does seem to be exploiting women’s insecurities about their appearance.” Cost may be another factor that encourages consumers, old and young alike, to experiment with anti-aging treatments. Customers who would previously have expected to pay around £300 for BOTOX® injections at a beauty clinic can now book an appointment from just £99. While this may make non-surgical cosmetic treatments available to all, rather than just the rich and famous, it seems ironic that this initiative has appeared at a time when many celebrities are resisting the pressure to stay young-looking for as long as possible.

Celebrities speak out

Last year Marie Claire magazine asked a number of highprofile stars for their opinion about cosmetic treatments, and the results were surprising. Of those in favour of BOTOX®, forty-five-year-old Broadchurch actor Olivia Colman admitted “I LOVED it” after having a course of injections, while plainspeaking film star Scarlett Johansson bluntly declared: “I don’t want to be an old hag!” But a greater number of celebrities seemed to be against antiaging treatments. Julia Roberts (star of movies such as ‘Pretty Woman’ and ‘Notting Hill’) has been a vocal opponent of cosmetic surgery in recent years. She explains: “It’s unfortunate that we live in such a panicked, dysmorphic society where women don’t even give themselves a chance to see what they’ll look like as older persons. I want to have some idea of what I’ll look like before I start cleaning the slates. I want my kids to know when I’m happy and when I’m confounded. Your face tells a story… and it shouldn’t be a story about your drive to the doctor’s office.” Whether you love the fact that BOTOX®, chemical peels and fillers are becoming more affordable and easier to obtain, or you support Julia Roberts’ views on aging naturally, as our population steadily ages (we’ll see 8.6 million extra people aged 65 years and over in 50 years’ time) it’s likely that we’ll see more and more of our high street outlets promising to iron out our wrinkles and restore the glow of youth for less than £100.

by Kate McLelland

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Electrical Contractors

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HOME SERVICES

WE CAN INSPECT. If we find your gutters are clear, we will not charge you for unnecessary work.

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Books

BEAT THE WINTER BLUES This month, we’re focusing on books to make you laugh, cry, write and reflect your way out of the winter blues.

How to be Famous – Caitlin Moran

Snort-your-tea-out-of-your-nose-funny, How to be Famous centres around 19-year-old Johanna Morrigan aka the writer Dolly Wilde. It’s 1995, Britpop has taken over the music scene and there’s no better place to be than London. Until, that is, Johanna finds herself the subject of malicious gossip and has to decide whether to flee or fight back.

The Accidental Memoir – Eve Makis and Anthony Chopper

If you’ve ever thought about capturing moments of your life using the written word but have no idea where to start, you need this book. Prompts range from ‘Is there a mystery in your family? A story rarely spoken about?’ to ‘What posters did you have on your bedroom wall?’ and ‘Write a letter to your younger self.’ There are also extracts from other memoirs, writing tips and more.

Slow – Gizzi Erskine

Comfort eating doesn’t have to mean chocolate, shop-bought pies and a vat of ice cream. It can mean taking the time to show yourself some self-care by preparing delicious, wholesome, hearty dishes. Slow has plenty of recipes to help you do just that, from warming winter stews to slow-roasted meats and decadent desserts. They’re all written in Gizzi’s usual easy, unaffected style. Salt Beef Brisket anyone? Or Lemon Sherbet Meringue Pie? Yum.

Why Mummy Drinks: The Journal – Gill Sims

Frazzled parents everywhere will find something to relate to in Why Mummy Drinks. Humorous reflections on parenting in the modern world precede spaces to jot down your own thoughts each day. If you like journals (and laughing), and have ever wondered whether you should just record yourself shouting ‘Teeth! Hair! Shoes! Hurry up!’ to save having to speak in the morning, this book is for you.

Down to Earth – Monty Don

One of the easiest ways to lift your spirits is to get out into nature. There are few things more satisfying than growing something yourself and spring is just around the corner. Down to Earth is a useful book for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. It doesn’t matter whether you have acres of land or a tiny courtyard, you’ll find advice, tips and inspiration on everything from garden design and plant choice to pest control.

Reasons to Stay Alive – Matt Haig

An estimated 10% of people will suffer from depression at some point in their lives. If you’re waging your own battle against this debilitating illness, Reasons to Stay Alive may help. Matt Haig chronicles his own fight against depression and shares what worked for him. It’s an honest, warm, humorous and very relatable read. You may also find Haig’s Notes on a Nervous Planet of interest if you suffer from anxiety or panic attacks. For other mood-boosting or self-help books, check out Reading Well’s recommendations at www.reading-well.org.uk

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Corsica

DISCOVER THE ALTA ROCCA

With 40% of the land protected by a Regional Nature Park, Corsica is often called the ‘Isle of Beauty’, a worthy epithet as beyond the fabulous coastline, the hinterland has its own spectacular scenery. Down in the south, just inland from the popular resorts, the Alta Rocca is one of these lovely mountain regions laced in walking trails with only a couple of minor roads winding their way across the land. Up there time seems to stand still. Forests rich in oak and chestnut trees, lofty Laricio pines, pastures, tumbling streams and dramatic rocks, this is a paradise for all nature lovers. Red kites soar in the thermals and there are peregrine falcons, golden eagles and bearded vultures with a mighty wingspan. Nuthatches splash colour in the trees, lizards and salamanders scamper along the tracks, wild cats and boars forage here and there. Meanwhile deer graze in the shade but the mouflons with long horns like to perch on the most inaccessible rocks, basking in the bright Mediterranean sun. Flowers and plants vary with the altitude but favourites include myrtle and thyme, the delicate blue ancoli peeping out of rocky crags and the wild sweet-scented immortelle. The Alta Rocca starts in Ospedale, the first mountain village at 900 metres, then stretches north towards the Bavella pass where at 1,218 metres one enjoys superb views of the pink rocky

‘needles’ by the same name. This is on the old transhumance route and the nearby trails invite you to explore further. It’s an awesome spot protected by the statue of Our Lady of the Snows, installed with great difficulty by local monks. It may feel like the roof of the world but besides its natural wonders, the Alta Rocca is a land of hilltop villages where traditions survive on the ‘heritage trail’. On the western edge, Sainte Lucie de Tallano is a lively little place, all granite houses and cobbled lanes with convent and church, old bread ovens, oil mill and nearby thermal springs in their natural settings. Then there’s Levie and its Alta Rocca museum and the ‘coutellerie’ where traditional Corsican knives are still made in various shapes and sizes. Yet this pretty village has other claims to fame for if you feel like a walk, a trail can lead you to the archaeological site of Cucuruzzu dating back to the Bronze Age. It’s quiet and atmospheric, dotted with remnants of walls, tower and storing areas. According to historians however, the Alta Rocca has 9,000 years of history, making it one of the oldest inhabited districts in Corsica. At just over 300 metres, the village of Sartène can vouch for that, with a museum of prehistory, nearby dolmens and menhirs and gateway to the highlands, once known as the Land of the Lords. Enjoy the local wine then, as you wander through stepped alleyways and narrow lanes framed by granite hills, you may well agree that as the locals say, Sartène is ‘the most Corsican of all Corsican villages’.

HOME SERVICES

Painting & Decorating

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Admaston

at Admaston House Comm. Centre: Mon: Yoga; 6.30-8pm Tue: Pushchair people 9.30am-12pm, Guitar lessons 4.30-7pm, Brownies 5.30-6.45pm, Guides 7-8.30pm, Rangers 7-8.30pm Childrens Cooking Classes - Every Tuesday (term time) 4.15-5.30pm (Ages 2-12), Email: natalie@cookstars.co.uk Wed: WI 2-4pm (1st Wed of mth), Weight Watchers 5:30&7pm, Bollywood Dancing 6.45-8.30pm Thu: Scouts 7-9pm, Explorers (age14-18) 7.30-9.30pm, Ladies alpha 7.30-9.30pm. Fri: Youth club 7.30-9pm. If you would like further info. on above visit www.admastonhouse.org.uk or contact Moira Hoath on 07722 213264. Wrekin & Telford Singers meet every Fri 7:30pm at Admaston House. We are a mixed voice choir - no audition just come along and enjoy singing with a friendly group of people. Contact Judi 01952 411801 or visit our Facebook @wrekin&telford singers or www.wtsingers.org.uk

Church Aston

Pitchcroft & Church Aston WI - Meetings held 3rd Wed of month in Church Hall, Church Aston at 7.30 pm. Variety of speakers & demonstrations. Guests admission is £3.50. Contact Linda Browning 01952 876306 for further details. Church Aston Gardening Club meets the 3rd Mon monthly 8pm, Church Aston Church Hall. New Members welcome. Sylvia 01952 812092 Crafty Sew and Sews - we meet for sewing, knitting and other crafts at the Church Hall, Church Aston on Tuesdays from 2-4pm. New members welcome. Church Aston Thursday Club meet fortnightly Thu afternoon 2pm till 4pm, speakers, outings. Contact Sylvia 01952 402744 or 812092 at Church Aston Village Hall: Mon: 10-11am Zumba, 11.30-12.30 Beg. Pilates, 2-4pm U3A Sewing/Craft Grp (alt. wks), 7-10pm Whist Tue: 10-12 Tai Chi, 6.30-9.30pm Line Dancing Wed: 9.30-10.25 Easy Tone, 10.30-11.15 Kettle Bell Class, 4.30-4.30 Kids Dance Classes, 7-10pm Whist Thu: 2-4pm Whist, 6-8pm Cubs Fri: 2-4pm Tea dance, 4.15-6 Twinkle toe dance, 6-7 Beavers, 7-8 Scouts Sun: From 7pm Ballroom Dance Lessons

Dawley

Telford Hot Trax Radio Controlled Car Club - Meets every Wednesday at Dawley Social Club, King St, Telford TF4 2AG @ 7.30pm to 10pm. Contact: 07834 808943 Dawley Traditional Market - Every Friday, Meadow Rd car park. Contact 01952 380934 Telford Christian Fellowship, Christian Worship & Prayer for Healing, Sun 10:30am12pm at the Dawley Hse, 2 Burton St, Dawley TF4 2ES. Contact Giles Higgins 01952 272961 www.tcfonline.org.uk Dawley Christian Centre: Mon: 5-8pm Brownies & Rainbows, Tue: 9.30-11.30 - Stay & play groups for under 5’s Fri: 2-4pm - Computer Club (3rd Fri each mth) 9-12 Table Top Sale

Donnington

Players wanted - Tickled Pink Ukulele Band Practice nights Weds @ Asda Donnington. Uke players needed. Contact us at: tpinkukes@gmail.com or call 07939 021162 Oakengates Rangers Colts U11’s Football Club - are looking to recruit male and female players for the 2014/2015 season if you are currently aged 10-11 please feel free to come along.Training every Thursday, 6pm to 7:30pm at Donnington football pitches (near Little Theatre). Contact Nik: 07506 722488 or Saul: 07411 467341. Telford Sea Cadets – Tue & Thu nights 6.459pm, Cadets is for ages 12-18, Juniors 1011. See website for details or contact us by email: Telford.seacadets@yahoo.com Thu - The Creation Station ‘Little Explorer’

pre-schooler arts & crafts sessions. Cordingley Hall, Wellington Road. 10.15 to 11.05 (term-time) Call to book your place 0844 854 9128. at Donnington Methodist Church: 2nd Sunday of every month - Messy Church (3-4.30pm). Everyone invited. If you are a child you will need to bring an adult with you! An hour of fun, games & craft activities, don’t wear your best clothes. Donations welcomed. We don’t expect you to belong to a church.

Edgmond

at Edgmond Village Hall: Toddler group 10.30-11.30 (term time only) - Contact Lindsay 07739 161269 Mon (term time only): Painting - drawing classes 1.00-3.30pm. More details Cynthia James 07722 624 210. Every 3rd Wed of Month - Edgmond W.I 7.30-10pm. Visitors welcome: £3.50, incl. refreshments. Contact Dianne: 01952 825564. Every 1st Sat of Month - Table Top Sale 9.30am-12.30. Bacon sandwiches, tea/ coffee & cakes. £5 table, free entry contact Janis 07739 634703 (starting again 2nd Feb 2019) Antoaneta's Writers' Edgmond meet on 1st Wed of month at 5.30pm in members own homes. New members are welcomed. We are a small and friendly group keen to advance our writing. Contact Mark Pearce on 01952 550557 or email markpearce17@ hotmail.com for more info.

Hadley

Hadley Five O Club - for over 50s meets most Mondays 9-45am to 12-noon at Hadley United Services clubroom. Talks, entertainers, trips out, refreshments etc Call in, or ring Keith on 01952-244804. Hadley Traditional Market - Wed every week, Hadley Local Centre. Contact 01952 380934 Telford Wine Making & Home Brewing Club - at Hadley Rest Rooms, (by the Sikh Temple) on the 1st Thu of month 7.45 to 8pm. For info contact Chris Hall on 01384 345408 or Annette Jones on annette. jones234@yahoo.com Parkinson’s Telford & Wrekin Support Group - We offer support and friendship to people living with Parkinson’s, their families and carers. Come along to our friendly group, meet other people affected by Parkinson’s and get involved in a range of events and activities. Castle Farm Community Centre in Hadley, 1-3pm on the last Tue of every month. T: 01952 253877

Horsehay

Horsehay and District Townswomen’s Guild meet on the 3rd Mon of each month at Horsehay Village Hall at 7.30pm. Call 01952 503535 for more info. Horsehay Methodist Church - coffee morning on Wed 10.30-noon. Parents & toddlers on Fri mornings 10-11.30am. Youth group Fri 7-8.30pm (10 to 14 yr olds)

Ketley

Childrens Cooking Classes - Every Saturday (term time) 9.30-11.00am at Ketley Community Centre (Ages 2-12), Email: natalie@cookstars.co.uk Telford Stamp and Card Club meets on the second Monday of each month (except July and August) at 7.30pm at Ketley Community Centre, Telford, TF1 5AN. Visitors welcome.

Lawley

Learn to Play Bridge - at Lawley Community Centre. For further information contact Peter Seager on 01952 419999 Lawley & District WI meet on the 1st Tue of every month at 7.30pm StJohn’s Church Hall at Lawley. For more info. call Denise Edwards 01952 405756.

Leegomery

Childrens Cooking Classes - Every Thursday (term time) 4.30-5.45pm at Leegomery Community Centre (Ages 2-12), Email: natalie@cookstars.co.uk

Lilleshall

Lilleshall Women’s Institute - Open to all age groups - speakers, demonstrations, refreshments and raffle. At Lilleshall Memorial Hall 3rd Tue of month 7.30pm. Guests £2 per session. Contact Francis Taylor 01952 604718

Madeley

Madeley Art Club - meets every Mon (exc. Bank Hols), 9:30am-12 noon @ Jubilee Hall, Madeley - all over 55’s welcome. For more info call Tamara on 01952 680030. Madeley Traditional Market - Tue & Sat – every week, Russell Square. Contact 01952 380934 Life Drawing - every Tuesday 7pm - 9pm at Jubilee House, Madeley. Excellent tutor. For more info. call the WEA 01952 614451 or email telfordcentre@wea.org.uk. 1st Wed each month - Madeley Townswomen Guild meets 7.30pm at the Common Room, Bridle Court, Bridle Rd. Madeley, TF7 5SG Contact 01952 878069.

Muxton

Muxton Movers walking group - meet on a Tue & Thu evening, 7.15pm at Muxton School for an hour of fairly flat walking. Sundays, at 6.30pm, cover approx. 7 miles, in 1.5hrs. New members are welcome! at St John’s Church Muxton: Mon: 12:30-2:15pm NCT Bumps and Babes group - for parents and carers with children under 2, £1.50 donation Painting Club 2-4pm (term time). Tue: Tiny Tots (10am, term time), Rainbows - followed by Brownies & Guides Wed: In Stitches 2pm (1st & 3rd Wed) Embroiderers Guild 8pm (every 4th Wed) Muxton Ladies 7.45pm (1st Wed each mth) Thu: Forget Me Not Films 9.30am Monthly, Afternoon Fellowship 2.30-4pm monthly & Beacon 7.45pm Fri: Join us 4 a Cuppa! 11am Monthly plus litter pick, Lunch Club Over 50’s (1st Fri of mth) Sub:Zero – Youth Cafe, yrs7+ 4-6pm Sat: Prayer Breakfast (bi-monthly) Available for hire for parties etc.. Sun: Church Services 11am Available for hire for parties etc.. If you would like further info. on the above activities - contact the church on 01952 670033

Newport

The Probus Club of Newport meet on the first Monday of each month. If you are a retired gentleman then check us out. Very friendly bunch. Ring 01952 813433 for more details. U3A Newport - meet the 3rd Tue of each month at The Royal British Legion Club, Audley Road, Newport at 2pm. £1 entry to include refreshments, Members and visitors are most welcome to come along. Please visit our website to find out more. Beaumaris Singers - New members welcome. We are a chamber choir of around 20 voices. We meet every Tuesday at 7.15pm during term time at Cosy Hall, Newport. For more information call David 07710 005050 or visit our website www.beaumarissingers.org Newport Rotary Lite - We’re an active, informal and mixed club focused on doing things to help the community in Newport and beyond. Message us through Facebook - Newport Shrops Rotary Lite. Childrens Cooking Classes - Every Monday (term time) 4.15-5.30pm at Newport Cricket Club (Ages 2-12), Email: natalie@ cookstars.co.uk Childrens Cooking Classes - Every Monday (term time) 6.30-8.15pm at Burton Borough Home Ec Room (Ages 10-17), Email: natalie@cookstars.co.uk Gnosall, Newport & District Lions Club. 1st Mon monthly at 8pm - Community Room, Gnosall Fire Station, Wharf Road ST20 0DB. For people interested in helping in the community. Contacts: Pat 01785 780032 or John 01952 273919. Newport Writers' Circle meet on 2nd Wed of month (except Aug), 10.30am in the library. New members welcomed. A friendly group who share their stories in a warm and welcoming way. Contact Mark Pearce on 01952 550557 or email markpearce17@ hotmail.com for more info. Newport (SALOP) and District Male Voice Choir - seeking new members for well established friendly choir, meet 7.30pm on Mondays at Trinity Church Wellington Rd Newport. Novices are welcome, come along for a taster session. You do not to be a Tom Jones, just someone who can hold a note and fit in to the choir. For more infor visit our website, or call 01952 813267. Newport Afternoon Guild meet on the 1st Wed 2-4pm at the Cosy Hall in Newport. Call 01952 825 287 for further infomation. Newport Bridge Academy - Meet Mondays 7pm at Royal Naval Association, Bellmans Yard, Newport. All standards welcome -

very friendly club. Expert tuition every week from EBU Grand master & qualified teacher, followed by duplicate bridge. Easy parking and tea/coffee included. Please call Grahame on 07541 048785 or Bob on 07907 887010 or email newport.bridge. academy@outlook.com Newport Bridge Club meet Tue & Thu 7pm at The Hub St Mary Street Newport. We welcome duplicate bridge players of all standards. Interested? Come and join us. Call 01952 814474 for more details or e-mail info@newport-bridge-club.co.uk The Dalen Singers is a small, friendly, mixed voice choir founded 30 years ago in Newport. Rehearsals on Tue evenings, 7pm at Trinity Church, Wellington Road, Newport. If you would like to meet us just come to rehearsals, you will be very welcome, or ring secretary 01952 811741 for more information. Cygnus Book Club – Come along and join a friendly group as we discuss a spiritual book or theme of the month – all whilst enjoying drinks and cake! Contact Romella 07894 812440 Used Toner Cartridges - Shrewsbury Music Therapy Unit are collecting and recycling used printer ink cartridges to raise funds to subsidise Music Therapy for children with learning difficulties. Please drop off at Boots or Ace Computers, High St, Newport. Dressmaking Classes at Cosy Hall, Newport on Thu’s - 10am-12.30pm and 7.309.30pm ‘Saturday Sewing Bee’ 2-5pm, monthly. Details and booking contact Catherine on 01952 276061. catherine@ lovedressmaking.co.uk www.facebook. com/lovedressmaking Toy Library in Cottage Care Centre, Newport, every Friday 9.45-11.30, preschool age. Contact Steve Ravenscroft 01952 811935 or just call in. Newport RNA Club - Excellent venue with warm friendly atmosphere. Function room for hire. Mon - bridge club, Tue - open mic, Wed - pool, Thu - bingo, Fri - dominoes/ quiz nights/live entertainment, Sat - live entertainment. Pay on door. Non-Members £3. 07772 611540 Friends Singles Club, 45+, established in Shropshire, now meeting in Newport. Full details from 07955 851256 or email: singlesfriends18@gmail.com Newport Scouts, Longford Road HQ. Beavers, Thu’s at 6pm; Cubs, Wed’s at 6pm; Scouts, Wed’s 7.30 pm. Contact: Liz on 07780 611260 The Guild of Silk Painters - meetings are held from 7-9.30pm on the third Monday of each month atCosy Hall, Water Lane Newport. Contact - Margaret 01785 254803, Diana 01785 223339 or Anethia 01952 813101. Female 77 - Meetings held every Wednesday during term time at Newport Cottage Hospital 8pm. Speakers,demonstrations and outings. New members welcome. Contact Chris 01952 811533 Newport Wine Appreciation Group meet from 7pm-9pm on Tue’s at Cosy Hall, Newport. Beginners and more experienced enthusiasts welcome. Contact Geoff on 01743 884658 Newport Life Drawing and Figure Sculpting Workshops – Saturday mornings at Adams’ Grammar School. For further information please call Michael on 07528489320 or email michaeljamespotter@hotmail.co.uk Newport Farmers’ Market – 3rd Thu of every month, The Square and The Buttercross, Newport – Contact Tel 01952 380934 Newport Trefoil Guild meets monthly on a Thursday at Cosy Hall, Water Lane. All members/ex members of Girl Guiding welcome. Contact Cris 01952 253960 for further details. Newport Photographic Club - meet 7.45pm on Tues (Sep-Jun) in the Baptist Church Hall in Water Lane, Newport. See www. newportphotoclub.com for details.

Oakengates

FREE Art and Craft Sessions - at The Wakes, Oakengates - every Thursday 102pm no need to book just turn up, everyone welcome. Table top sale - first Saturday of each month, 10am -12pm at the Holy Trinity Church in Wrockwardine wood and Oakengates. Contact Tanya May 07990 767855 (visit our facebook page for events: Holy Trinity Church Wrockwardine Wood) Oakengates Traditional Market - Saturday – every week, Limes Walk. Contact 01952 380934. The Telford & District branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society hold a Monthly Social on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 12.30pm to 2.30pm at the Salvation

COMMUNITY & WHATS ON

Army Hall in Oakengates. There is a short chair based exercise session followed by refreshments & a chance to chat - open to anyone affected by MS. Branch Helpline number: 07866 628593. Boys’ Brigade - Tue at Oakengates United Church - 6pm Anchor Boys, 7pm Junior Boys Section. Friday - 7pm Company Section (boys and girls school year 7+). Contact Dave on 07548 574901. Oakengates Townswomen’s Guild meet on the 4th Thu of each month at the United Reform Church at 7pm. Call 01952 261 207 for more info.

Priorslee

Sewing For Pleasure - Sewing Machine Classes every Tuesday 7pm - 9pm, University Campus Telford, Conference Centre, Priorslee. TF2 9NN All abilities welcome. Call Nicky on 01952 201502 for more details or see our Facebook page facebook.com/MaudeandRose. Tea & Natter at St. Peter’s Church, Church Rd, Priorslee, 2pm-3pm, bring & buy with a draw. Every 4th Thu of the month. Come and join us for a chat with drinks & refreshments 50p – all are welcome. AgeUk over 60’s Pub Lunch Club at the The Lion Inn, Priorslee, meet 2nd Monday of each month. Please contact Pauline Comley for further details 01952 200359 Family Praise at St Peters Church, Church Rd, Priorslee: All-Age Worship, 2nd Sunday of each month, 1/2hour service, 10-10:30am, ideal for children! Contact Chris Harris 07941 961461 or email stpeterspriorslee@ btinternet.com Priorslee Lions Chess Club Monday nights from 7:30pm The Lion, Shifnal Road, Priorslee www.priorsleelionschessclub.co.uk Whist Drive - Every Sat, at Priorslee Scout Hut, 7pm prompt - everyone welcome, Call 01952 242009 for details. Carers` Group meets every last Tue of month, 2.30-4.30pm at the Old Fire Station, Shifnal. Contact Ivy 01952 750228 (day only) for more details.

Shawbirch

Shawbirch Community Centre: Mon-Fri: Little Chicks Pre-School 9am 3pm Mon: Youth Club 10-15 yrs (6–8pm) Wed: Bridge Club (7pm – 10pm) Fri: Telford Stage School - 5.45pm The community centre is available to hire evenings & weekends. For further info. call 01952 248538.

Sheriffhales

Sheriffhales W.I. - Meet every 4th Thursday, 7.30pm at Sheriffhales village hall. For further info contact Janet 07964 370679.

Shifnal

22nd Jan (Tue) - Wrekin U3A. 2pm, Shifnal Village Hall. Life on the Royal Yacht Britannia - by Andy Jones. Experiences of a member of crew on-board the Royal Yacht. Visitors welcome £1.50. Details at https://u3asites.org.uk/wrekin 26th Feb (Tue) - Wrekin U3A. 2pm, Shifnal Village Hall. Is there Cash in your Attic? by Will Farmer. An Antiques Roadshow expert will be giving light-hearted advice on the new collectables. Visitors welcome £1.50. Details at https://u3asites.org.uk/ wrekin Shifnal in Stitches - Informal knitting and crochet group meeting at Odfellows every 3rd Tue of the month, 7-9pm. All ages and all skill levels welcome. Find us on facebook.com/shifnalinstitches or email shifnalinstitches@gmail.com Shifnal Senior Citizens meet every Friday afternoon in the Social Club in Curriers Lane, Shifnal at 2-4pm Membership £6 per year. All Senior Citizens are welcome. Shifnal Tots and Toddlers meet every Thursday 9:15am til 11am in term time at the Youth Club, Bridgnorth Road. Children 4 years and under with their carers welcome. Shifnal Tennis Club - Social play every Mon & Wed 6.30 onwards. New members always welcome including beginners or ‘back to tennis’ , junior coaching available throughout the week. Contact Merill Holt 07762 15270 or Head Coach Ian Gillespie 07761 970759 for juniors. LIVE AT HOME - Support for older people offering friendship and company, activities and entertainment, outings and visits, theatre trips and exercise. Contact Rachel on 01952 879873

Shifnal ART Group - Fri’s 10am-12. £5. Senior Citizens Hall, Curriers Ln. T&C. contact Jim 01952 463211. Get Shifnal On Line - Free computer lessons are on offer from local volunteers in Shifnal library. If you have no knowledge of computers, but would like to learn at your own pace, call 01952 461018 during Library open hours.. Carers` Group meets every last Tue of month, 2.30-4.30pm at the Old Fire Station, Shifnal. Contact Ivy 01952 750228 (daytimes only) for more details. Shifnal Men’s Link - Meet 3 times a year (Feb, Jun & Oct) at Haughton Hall for a meal with a guest speaker. Contact Chris Blake on 01952 463171 or email: info@ shifnal-mens-link.co.uk Shifnal Ladies Link - Meet 3 times a year (Feb, Jun & Oct) at Haughton Hall for a meal with a guest speaker. Contact Sue Blake on 01952 463171 or email: info@ shifnal-ladies-link.co.uk Stagekids of Shifnal - for 6–16s meet every Thu during term time at The Youth Club, Bridgnorth Rd, Shifnal, 6–11 yr olds meet at 6.45pm-8pm, 12–16 yr olds meet 8pm9.45pm. Contact Sandra on 01952 462759 Shifnal Millennium Sensory Garden - The working party meets each month from March through to the end of Nov. on the 1st and 3rd Sats and the 2nd and 4th Thurs 9.30am - noon. Enthusiastic helpers most welcome. Contact Angela - 01952 462627 for more details or just turn up on the day. Shifnal Flower Club meet 4th Tue of every month at Shifnal Village Hall at 7.30pm. Professional Floral Art Demonstrations, Garden Visits & Outings, if you love flowers, come & join us. Call Sue Munslow on 01952 461076 Shifnal Flower Club Workshop is 3rd Tue of every month at Curriers Lane Room, Shifnal - 7.30pm. Learn how to produce your own floral arrangement. Members £2, non members £4. Call Chris Finlan on 01952 750312. Shifnal & District Male Voice Choir meet on Thu at 7.30pm at Idsall School (6th form common room). New recruits welcome. Contact Ged Heyes on 01952 586968, for further details. St Andrews Church, Shifnal - Every Tue 10am – 12 noon Coffee and a listening ear in the Brooke Room. Trinity Methodist Church, Shifnal - Every Wednesday 10am - 12 noon all welcome to drop in for a drink & a chat. Ladybirds tots and toddlers meet every Friday from 10-11.30am at Trinity Methodist Church, Shifnal. All children under 5 and their carers are welcome. St Mary’s Church Presbytery, Victoria Road, Shifnal - Coffee Morning every Thu. All welcome for a drink and a chat.

St Georges

Telford & Wrekin Arthritis Support Group, meet monthly at St. George’s Sports & Social Club, Church St. 7.30–9.30pm. Also organize trips with side lift coaches and a 5 days holiday once a year with disabled access. Hydrotherapy sessions Thu 5–7pm, by appt only. For further details contact Mrs. Pat Watkins on 01952 618381. at St Georges Methodist Church: Mon - 4pm Rainbows / 5.45pm Brownies (Contact: 01952 293944) Wed - Snedshill & District Over 60’s Club meet 1pm (T: 618221 - Lois Bull) 1st Wed of every month - St Georges WI meet in the Church Hall at 7pm - contact A. Chetwood 01952 618353 for further details. Thu - 6pm Guides / 7.45pm Morningside Ladies Choir (Contact 01952 619347) Thu - 9:30-11:30am - Little Fishes under 5’s group. For all pre-school children and their carers. Meets in the St Georges Methodist Church Hall. £1.50 per family to include snacks and drinks. Contact Kate on 07976 460777.

Telford - Town Centre

2nd Mar 2019 - Charity Ball. at the Park Inn Telford to raise funds for the National Autistic Society. Drink on arrival, 3 Course set menu meal, 2 Live acts (1 appeared on Britain’s Got Talent), a Prize raffle, a Silent Auction and a disco to end the night with. To book tickets (£25), contact Brad or Charmayne Wynn on 07858 514110/07849 778840 . Craft Fair at Meeting Point House, Southwater - every 2nd Sat of the month (Oct to Dec) - lots of stalls and refreshments - free entry. To hire a table call 01952 292268 Afternoon Tea at Meeting Point House,

ATC meet at TA Centre, Territorial House, Trench, Telford between 18.45 - 21.30 every Tue & Thu night. Contact number for Sqn 01952 670720

Wellington Evening Townswomen’s Guild meet on the 1st Tue of each month at 7.30pm at Belmont Community Hall, Wellington. Visitors welcome. Call 413686 for more info. Wellington Central Townswomen’s Guild meet on the 2nd Tue of each month at 2.15pm at the Carvers Close Community Room, Holyhead Rd, Wellington. For more info call 01952 251 364. Eyton & Wellington WI - Meet every 2nd Wed of the month at 7:30pm in the Belmont Hall, Wellington for speakers, friendship and tea & biscuits. Visitors welcome. Call Judi on 01952 411801 for more details. Grace Church Wellington - meets Sundays at 11am in the Wellington Library. An independent local fellowship. Visit www. gcwellington.com.

Wellington

Other Areas

Southwater - available Mon to Sat 12-3pm in the vintage inspired tea room. £8 for two, includes a pot of tea. The room is also great for birthdays and celebrations as well as local community groups. Call 01952 292268, visit www.meetingpointhouse.co.uk or email reception@meetingpointhouse.co.uk Tuesday Group lively discussions in a good humoured atmosphere. Women meeting 10:30 to 12:30 on 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month. Venue subject to change. Contact Brenda on 01952 610939.

Trench

12th Jan (Sat) - Telford Stamp, Card and Coin Fair - Belmont Hall, Wellington Centre, Telford, TF1 1LU, 10am to 3pm, free entry, good range of stalls, free valuations, buy and sell, home-made refreshments. Free adjacent car park, train station close by, bus via Telford Centre to nearby local bus station. Further details from Bob Pilkington, T: 01299-211737. sbpilkington02@outlook.com. Telford Stamp and Card Club Meetings - Stamp Club meetings are on the 2nd Monday of each month, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, in the Belmont Hall, Wellington. For more info call Richard Camp on 01952-405458. SPACES available at Wellington Brownies - for girls aged 7-10, Mon 6:30-7:45pm, Wellington Methodist Church - contact Joanne Martin on 01952 254555 Severn Harmony Ladies Barbershop Chorus meets every Monday from 7.30-9.30pm at Wellington Methodist Church,New Street,TF1 1LU for singing and fun. For more info. contact Membership Secretary, Carol Shore on 01952 597851 or 07792 862826. Wellington, the home of The Telfordaires Barbershop Harmony Chorus. For the MALE voice. If you can or can’t sing, just like to try, or need some entertainment for an event. Contact us on 0845 463 1618 Art and Craft fun for toddlers - every Friday at 11am at Wellington Methodist Church. Contact Kirsty on 07741 066858 or kirsty@art4tots.com or visit www.Art4Tots. com for further details. Art for Enjoyment - at Wellington Methodist Church - Tue mornings or afternoons, and now on Thu afternoons as well, 1.30 - 3.30pm. Call Liz Doody, the course tutor for more info. or to book your place on 07970 709116. SUNNYCROFT - 200 Holyhead Road, Wellington. House, gardens and tearoom open Fri-Mon 10.30am-5pm, last admission to house 4pm. Telford Lions Club - Meet on 2nd & 4th Monday each month at 8pm, at the Whitehouse Hotel, Watling Street, Wellington. To find out more about us, our activities and how to join us, t: 0845 833 9585 or email telford.lions@yahoo.com Car boot sale – Every Sunday, Victoria Road and Nailors Row car parks – Contact Tel 01952 380934 U3A Wellington - 2nd Thu of each Month meeting at Belmont Community Hall, Wellington - 2pm. Just come along and see what’s on offer, or visit our website. S.T.A.G.s (Strategic Tactical Adventure Gaming Society) one of the biggest wargaming clubs in the country. Historical as well as Sci/Fanasty wargaming. We meet at Belmont Hall in Wellington - see website for more details: www.stagstelford. co.uk or call 01952 417747 . Wellington Jade Singers ladies choir, meet weekly on Thu evenings 7.30-9.30pm Union Free Church Hall, Constitution Hill, Wellington, TF1 3BA, contact Chris Harris 07941 961461 or email jadesingers@ btinternet.com Wrekin Arts Photographic Club meets every Friday at 8pm at the Belfrey Arts Centre Wellington (Sep to Jun). Details from Sheila Thomas on 01952 617170 or www.wrekinartspc.com Eyton & Wellington WI meet 2nd Wed of every month, 7.30pm at Belmont Hall. Belmont Community Hall in Wellington meet every Fri 11.45am-4pm - Over 50’s, tea, raffle, speakers, bingo etc.. £1.50 entry, also lunch available at £3.50 at 12pm cooked on the premises. All welcome. For further details contact Margaret Atkinson on 01952 877409. The Wellington Girls’ Brigade meet every Tue in term time from 6-8pm at Wellington Methodist Church. All girls welcome from 5yrs+. For more info. call Tracey on 01952 405178.

Garden Club - Kynnersley Village Hall, Telford, TF6 6DX. Meet monthly, 2nd Friday of each month at 7pm, we welcome members from all around the Telford area Contact Hannah talksherlock@gmail.com 01743 341949. The Wolverhampton Phoenix Club for the widowed - a club for both men and women who are widowed and are ready to restart their social life in a friendly supportive atmosphere. We meet the 2nd Sunday of the month at Codsall Village Hall at 7pm in the summer afternoons and 2.30pm in the winter. We have a varied program of entertainment and we also organise monthly lunches at local pubs, day trips and holidays. For more information phone Jim 01902 846696. Age UK Lunch Clubs - are held every month at 10 different locations. Ring Age uk Telford (01952 201803) for more details or check out the website: www. ageukshropshireandtelford.org.uk IT Class (for older people) run every Wednesday 3-5pm at Brookside Community Centre. Contact Diane Douglas 01952 201803 ext 001 or diane.douglas@ ageukstw.org.uk Whist Drive - Every Fri, at Buildwas Village Hall, 7pm prompt - everyone welcome, Call 01952 242009 for details. Telford Sign Cafe - want to practice your signing or are you a Deaf Sign Language user who would enjoy helping us! Enjoy a coffee and a chat. All abilities welcome. Meet 3rd Fri of month from 7pm, at The Home Organisation Coffee Shop, Lightmoor. Contact Nikki: nikkibackhouse@ googlemail.com, 07791 724827 Wrockwardine and District Garden Club - Meet on 1st Thu of each month at Wrockwardine Village Hall at 7.30pm. Little Wenlock WI - meet 1st Wed of every month - in the Village Hall at 2pm, new members welcome - contact Diana on 01952 244136 for further details. Severn Sisters WI - Meet every 3rd Wednesday, 7pm at Longdon On Tern Village Hall. For further info contact Paula Pierce 07841 528543 Volunteer and Make a Difference - if you could help Guide Dogs locally with fundraising, sighted guiding or other volunteer roles, please contact Valerie Jobes on 01189 838 756 or valerie.jobes@ guidedogs.org.uk. Further info can be found at www.guidedogs.org.uk. Temponilla a small S.A.T.B. vocal ensemble meet weekly on Monday evenings 7:309pm at Sutton Hill Church, please see web www.temponilla.co.uk for calender of this years events, and contact details if you are intersted in joining the choir. The Wrekin Decorative and Fine Arts Society meets at the Cold War exhibition hall at RAF Cosford Air Museum on the 3rd Mon of the mth at 2pm. Visitors £5. Contact: Louise Nixon 01746 783517 - www. nadfas-wm.org.uk/wrekin.html Telford and Wrekin Ladies Circle is all about fun and friendship – trying something new, relaxing with friends, fundraising & great days out. If you are between 1845 and want to know more contact us at: tandwladiescircle@hotmail.com - 07961 961475 or find us on Facebook. Wrekin Writers meet 3rd Sat of month 9 till noon. Large friendly group that’ll help to motivate you with your writing. Visit www. wrekinwriters.co.uk or call Darren on 01952 405178.

To submit an entry to this feature please email your details to: fleur@inandaroundmagazine.co.uk please put subject as WHATS ON on the email. (Space is VERY limited, so brief details ONLY)

Local Health, Sport

Admaston

at Admaston House Community Centre (for further info. contact Moira Hoath on 07722 213264): Mon: Yoga (evenings) Contact Janet Evans on 01952 245983 Wed: Weight Watchers 5.30pm & 7pm Thu: Gentle seated and standing exercises for older people. 10.30-11.30am. Qualified tutor £2.50, call Diane Douglas on 01952 201803 for details. Thu: Slimming World - 9.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Contact Sharon on 07775 512563

Church Aston

at Church Aston Village Hall: Wed 9.30-10.25am Easy tone - over 50s & beginners Wed 10.30am-11.15 - Kettlebells Class - all over body workout using kettle shaped weight. Contact Kim on 07795 225017 Thu 11am Medau Movement & Dance exercise with Rosemary 01785 822442.

Dawley

Have fun – keep fit. Short Tennis Prime Time Club (over 55’s). Tue and Fri 5-6pm at Phoenix Sport & Leisure Centre, Dawley. First taster is free, membership £5 and each sesssion is £2. Please contact Peter on 01952 274657 Margaret on 019852 274535 or Keith on 506616. Touch Rugby - Telford RFC, Hinkshay Road, Telford TF3 3BZ. Wed 7pm ages 14 to adult Men and Women no previous experience required. £free. Just fun and fitness to be had! Ballroom Social Dance Class - Dawley Town Hall, Sun 7.3010.30pm. Call Donna on 01952 567920 Dawley Badminton Club meets on Tues 7:30-9:30pm at Holy Trinity Academy, Teece Dr, Priorslee, Telford TF2 9SF. We support a good club standard of play using feather shuttles. New members and visitors are welcome. Please come along on Club Night or contact Graeme Hughes on 07912 466207. Slimming World (Tue 9:15am & 11:15am) at Dawley Bank Call Paula on 07791 743509 Pilates Mon 7-8pm at the Pheonix Sports Centre, Telford Langley School. £33 block of 6 classes or £6.50 pay-asyou-go. Contact Beryl on 01952 462896 or 07971 875372, email: beryl.feely@gmail.com. Mons’ - 8-10pm - The Ironmen & Severn Gilders Morris dance team – great fun, all welcome, men and ladies, at The Telford Langley School, Duce Drive, Dawley, TF4 3JS. Contact us through our website www.imsg.org.uk or e-mail secretary@imsg.org.uk Dawley Christian Centre: Mon - GKR Karate 6.30-8pm Tue - Keep Fit 10-11am, Badminton Grp 7-9pm Wed - Zumba 8-9pm Thu 9am-12pm Help 2 Quit Smoking

Donnington

Bums n Tums fitness class - at Silver Threads Hall, Donnington 6.30-7.30pm. It would suit all fitness levels and is great fun! Contact Cheryl on 07714 610591 or cheryljauncey2@gmail.com

Edgmond

Yoga, Pilates & Yogalates Classes - in the new Studio at Edgmond Village Hall, Shrewsbury Road, Edgmond, Newport, TF10 8HU. Mon: Pilates at 6pm; Wed: Yogalates at 5.30pm and Yoga at 6.30pm. Cost: £6 PAYG or £30 (£5) in advance for 6 classes. Call/text Denise on 07875 661045 or email denisepheasant@hotmail.com to book.

Hadley

Gentle Exercise (for older people) - at the Methodist Church (Hadley) 2-3pm Mondays. £2.50 per session, all abilities welcome. Exercise Class at Hadley Community Centre (Hadley) Tue 1:00-1:45pm (for older people, but a little more physical). £2.50 per session, all abilities welcome. Slimming World - at HLC, Hadley - 5.30pm & 7.30pm Contact Sharon on 07775 512563

Daisy Birthing classes: Active Antenatal classes on Sat 1011:30am at HLC. Suitable for all pregnant mums. Email: janette-davey@thedaisyfoundation.com or phone 07808 066786. Thu mornings at Telford Thai Boxing, Hadley - 10-11am Yoga and 11:15-12:15pm Pilates. All ages and fitness levels welcome, including complete beginners. Contact - 07852 144119 or email iandglittleford@btinternet.com. Indoor Bowls - Mon & Tue 2-4pm, at Hadley Restrooms. New members VERY welcome, free trial available. For more details contact Roger on 07955 852 534. Gymnastics Classes - Monday to Saturday, for beginners - advanced gymnasts. Contact: 07905 956644 or email shootingstarsonline07@yahoo.com Piloxing (Boxing, Pilates & Dance) - Mon 6.30-7.30pm. Zumba - Thu 6.30-7.30pm. Hadley Methodist Church, £3.50. All abilities welcome! Debbie 07891 686812

Adult Yoga class, Mon 10-11am at the Memorial Hall in Lilleshall. Contact Michele on 07970 731174 or email info@ mitchytitch.co.uk. www.mitchytitch.co.uk Lilleshall Village Tennis Club - Welcomes new members, Tues, Thurs evenings & Sunday mornings. Junior & Adult Coaching – Saturday afternoons. Complete beginners course for Adults - Tues pm. For further details contact Pauline Coffey on 01952 604757 Lilleshall National Sports Centre - Sutherland Badminton Club - Tue evenings 8.30 - 10.30pm New members welcome. Contact: Amanda Haselock - 01952 677590 Premier Badminton Club are seeking new members. Tue evenings from 7:30pm at Lilleshall National Sports Centre. Contact Anthony 01952 526520 or Rob 01952 840453 www.premier badminton.co.uk Lilleshall Hall Table Tennis Club - meet Mondays during term time, 6.30-7.30pm for Juniors, 7.30-9.30pm for Adults, in Jubilee/Ford Hall at Lilleshall National Sports Centre. Adults £5, Juniors £3 per week. Coaching available for all abilities. Call Louise 813924 or Don 416048.

Jackfield

Madeley

‘Tap into Health’ - EFT tapping workshops. Relief from stress, pain and more. Wednesdays 10.30 - 11.30 at The Gorge Therapy & Training Centre. £5 or whatever you can manage on the day. Caroline 01952 881151 www. carolinerolling.com Mindful Meditation - Sooth mind, body and spirit. £5. At The GorgeTherapy & Training Centre. For more info contact: Diane 01952 881151 www.you-in-mind.co.uk

Ketley

Yoga - Wednesdays 7-8pm at Ketley Community Centre, Holyhead Road, Ketley, TF1 5AN. Friendly class, suitable for all abilities and beginners are especially welcome. £5 per class, no need to book. Contact Debbie on 07790 006815, email debbieyogaone@gmail.com or see my website: www.yogaone.co.uk Over 50’s Class @ Ketley Methodist church, Waterloo Road, Ketley. Thursday 10-11am. Suits all fitness levels and is a great place to meet new people. £3 per session. Contact Cheryl on 01952 371325 or email cheryljauncey@ yahoo.co.uk Slimming World - Ketley Methodist Church on Tue at 5.30 & 7.30pm.

Lawley

Clubbercise and Legs, Bums & Tums - Tuesdays Lawley Primary School Arleston Lane TF4 2PR. All fitness levels welcome age 16+. Contact Kim - 07724 087516. Or find us on Facebook 'Clubbercise Telford with Kim' Baby Yoga at St. Johns Church Hall, Lawley – Mon 1-2pm, Adult Yoga Mon 8.15 to 9.15pm. Contact Michele on 07970 731174 or email info@mitchytitch.co.uk. www.mitchytitch. co.uk Mummy Movers - St Johns Church Hall, Wed: 7.30-8.30pm & Thu: 10.15-11.00am. Call: Laura 07929 154 536 / laura@ mummymovers.com Website: www.mummymovers. com Stretch & Tone Class - Tue - Lawley Village Primary Academy - 6:30-7:30pm Call/text Vikki Connell on 07510 186982, or email vikkiburnell@ymail.com. Zumba - Mon & Wed - Lawley Community Centre 6pm Call/text Vikki Connell on 07510 186982, or email vikkiburnell@ymail.com.

Leegomery

CJ's Dance Fit - Mon & Wed 6.30pm and Thu 9.45am & 11am at Leegomery Methodist Church, Hadley Park Road, TF1 6QG. Also an Age UK class on Thu at 1:30pm. Call 07793 777659 or email: claire.jervis74@gmail.com for more details.

Lightmoor Village

at Oak Tree Centre, Lightmoor Village: Wed: Help to Quit Smoking 5.30-6.30pm - for app’s call Rachel 07979 540496 Sat: Dance Classes 9-10.15am (7yrs+), 10.15-11am (3-6yrs)

Lilleshall

Friendly flat green bowling, based at The National Sports Centre. Come along to club afternoon sessions on Thursdays 2:30pm to 4:30 during the summer and try your hand at a new sport. Further information on the club website www.lilleshallbowls.org.uk or contact Rod on 01952 590963 or Liz on 01952 814671. Lilleshall Trampoline Club - Tuesdays at Lilleshall National Sports Centre: (8-14 year olds) excluding school holidays - Trampoline Foundation: 6 - 7:30pm & Trampoline Development: 7:30 - 9pm. £5 a session. Contact us on 01952 603003 Lilleshall Quick Sticks Hockey - Sundays 10-10:45am (7-9 year olds) at Lilleshall National Sports Centre. £30 for 7 weeks. Contact us on 01952 603003

Bootcamp/Interval training classes at Bridal Road, Bridal Court, Madeley. Every Tue & Thu 7-8pm. Suits all fitness levels and great fun. Contact Cheryl on 01952 371325 Slimming World- Jubilee House, Madeley High St, Wed at 3.30,5.30 & 7.30 and Sat 8.30 & 10.30am.

Muxton

at St John’s Church Muxton: Bumps n Babes (NCT) 12.30-2:15pm (fortnightly), sessions £1.50 Slimming World - Mon (9.30, 5.30pm & 7.30pm) contact Celia Powell 07575 123666 Wed: Over 50’s Aerobics (10am) If you would like further info. on the above activities contact the church on 01952 670033

Newport

Groupfit, Women Only and Boxfit classes at The Body Barn in Newport, Shropshire's biggest outdoor fitness facility see website for full details at: www.thebodybarn.co.uk or call Danny on 07894 569571. Tai Chi - Gentle exercise to improve flexibility and balance, relieve stress and aid relaxation. Suitable for adults of all ages and abilities. Cosy Hall Tuesday am. Contact Dilys 01952 588838 / dilysd407@gmail.com Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, Clubbercise, Box-Fit, Circuits, Kettlebells, Body Pump, Fit-Steps, Yummy-Mummy’s, Relaxation, Tone & Sculpt ALL available at Pulse Fitness The Ballroom High Street Newport. Pay As You Go Classes Available Plus Pre-Paid Class Cards. Call Nikki 07967 343728 or email nikkiwitty@ymail.com Forton Cricket Club - Fancy playing cricket, we have two senior teams, ladies team and junior teams - for more info contact Clive 01952 825447 or cliverjones1958@gmail.com Nova Utd FC based in Newport, looking for new players for 2017/18,Training Saturday mornings 9-10.30 Shuker Fields, Ages 7 to 16yrs, all abilities welcome, for more details visit our website www.novaunitedfc.co.uk Martial Arts Club (Aikido) - Aikido at Burton Borough Sch, Newport. Mondays 7-9pm - Adult classes. Contact sensei@ meijyukan.co.uk website www.meijyukan.co.uk T: 0845 678 0091 Junior Badminton Club - we have places available for U11’s who want to learn how to play badminton. It’s £4 per week and includes coaching by a Badminton England accredited Level 2 coach. Saturday (10-11am under 11’s and 11-12 under 15’s) in term time at Burton Borough School, Newport. Contact Des Machin on 07949 192038, E: desmachin@ hotmail.co.uk Farmhouse Shotokan Karate Club, Moreton Millennium Community Centre and Burton Borough School, Newport - Tues, Fri & Sun. For all ages and abilities. Fully qualified and insured Instructors. First Lesson Free. Contact 07890 349451, email shropshirekarate@gmail.com or visit www. shropshirekarate.com Yoga Classes at Trinity Church, Wellington Rd, Newport: Mummy & Baby Yoga - Thu 1.30 – 2.30pm. Dru Yoga classes - Fridays 7 - 8.30pm. Contact Kate on 07989 514317, yogamebaby@yahoo.co.uk www.facebook.com/ yogame4families Salopian Skimmers Frisbee Club are looking for new Male & Female players of all abilities. Wed night at Adams Grammar Sports Hall. 18.30 to 20.00. First 3 sessions Free. For more info email drew.barlow@live.co.uk or join us on Facebook. A small friendly group of people meet every Friday evening from 6-7pm in Burton Borough School to play social badminton and volleyball. If you're interested please contact Mark Pearce on 01952 550557 or email markpearce17@hotmail.com for more information. Women’s Circle for Spiritual Development – are you looking to connect to like-minded spiritually awake women & deepen your connection - then this group is for you. 1st Fri of month in Newport – Contact Romella 07894 812440

& Fitness Classes Meditation for Calm Classes – held every Tuesday 2-2.50pm @ Tina’s Wellness Studio, New Street, Newport, drop in for £10 or prebook 4 weeks @ £9 a class (£36) Book Romella 07894 812440 Free essential oil classes – every Mon (& other days) Learn how essential oils can support your wellbeing goals, families health needs, emotions, sleep and even be used for cleaning. Contact Romella 07894 812440

Oakengates

Have fun – keep fit. Short Tennis Prime Time Club (over 55’s). Wed 7-8pm at Oakengates Leisure Centre. First taster is free, membership £5 and each sesssion is £2. Please contact Peter on 01952 274657 Margaret on 019852 274535 or Keith on 506616. Telford Fight Factory - Muay Thai, Boxing, Strength & Conditioning. At The Ice Lounge, Eden Complex, Cannongate Road, Oakengates. Fun, family friendly class, age 7-70yrs, Mon 6-7, Wed 7-8. Contact Stuart Whiston 07786 115899 or fb Clubbercise - Excercise in disguise. Easy to follow routines to Banging Club tunes from the 90s with L.E.D Glow Sticks. At The Ice Lounge, Eden Complex, Cannongate Road, Oakengates. Tue 7-8, Thu 7-8. Contact Amanda Whiston 07780 515350 or fb Telford & Wrekin Lawn Green Bowling Club - Est 1982 at Hartshill Park - Oakengates. Club nights Thurs - starting 6pm. Competitive and social bowling against other Midlands clubs. New members welcome. Contact Roger Rowley on 01952 612574. Slimming World (Sat - 8am & 10am) at Oakengates Rest Rooms, Charlton Street, Oakengates, Telford TF2 6BD Call Paula on 07791 743509 Martial Arts Club ( Aikido ) at Oakengates Leisure Centre. Mon & Fri 7.45 / 8.45pm Juniors ( 7yrs+ ). Mon & Fri 7.45 / 10.00pm Adults. New members always welcome. First lesson is free. If you would like more info contact us on: 07929761302. Email us on suekeithhayward@sky.com

Shawbirch

Shawbirch Community Centre: Tue - Antenatal Yoga (5:30-6:30pm), Yoga (7-9pm) For further info. contact us on 01952 248538.

Shifnal

Swimming Lessons - Duck N Dive Limited - Baby, preschool, afterschool & adult swimming lessons across various locations in Telford & Shifnal. T: 01952 301012, Email:info@dndswim.co.uk, Web:www.dndswim.co.uk Line Dancing Classes at Shifnal Memorial Club on Tue at 7.30pm. Slimming World - Shifnal Village Hall - Wed (9.30am) Call Paula on 07791 743509 Meditation followed by group activity every Thu 7.309.30pm at Citizen’s Hall, Curriers Lane, Shifnal. £8pp. Contact Norma on 01952 463876 or email Jehandra@ yahoo.com or Facebook -Jehandra Holistic Healing for more details. Tue mornings at St Andrews Youth Club, - Yoga 9:30 - 10:30am and Pilates 10:45 - 11:45am. £5 per class or £8 for both classes. Thu mornings at Shifnal Village Hall - Yoga 10-11am, £5 per class. All ages and fitness levels welcome, including complete beginners. Contact Gill on 07852 144119 or email iandglittleford@btinternet.com. YOGA every Thu at Trinity Methodist Church, Shifnal Adults - 7.10-8.10pm, Pregnancy 6-7pm, Baby Yoga at St. Andrews Church, Shifnal every Wed 1-2pm. Contact Michele on 07970 731174 or email info@mitchytitch. co.uk. www.mitchytitch.co.uk Laughter Yoga - The fun way to good health. Mon 7-8 pm. Tues 10.30 - 11.30 at Shifnal Seniors Club, Curriers Lane. All ages, all abilities. All welcome. £6 on the day or £24 for 6 weeks. Contact Caroline: 07868240605 info@ gorgetherapycentre.co.uk Adult Fitness Classes at Idsall Sports Centre – METAFIT - Mon 6:30-7.15pm, YOGA - Tue 5.30-6.30pm, CIRCUITS Wed 7.30-8.15pm, METAFIT - Thu 6.30-7.15pm. Everyone welcome! 1st Class FREE !!! 01952 460499 Shifnal Bowling Club - Social Bowling every Thu morning 10.30am-12.30pm. Junior Coaching Sat morning 11-12. All are welcome to our club young & old. Contact Graham McCarthy 01902 372 955 for details. DANCE class 10.30 Wed at St Andrews Youth Club Hall. Exercises & routines for fitness & fun, over 50s, £5. More info www.shifnaldance.moonfruit.com Spaces limited so please contact Sally 01952 461768. Pilates Mon 10-11am (starting 5th Sep) at the Trinity Methodist Church Hall. Tue 7-8pm at Kemberton Village Hall. £33 block of 6 classes or £6.50 pay-as-you-go. Contact Beryl on 01952 462896 or 07971 875372, email: beryl.feely@gmail.com Shifnal Cricket Club - Junior cricket coaching - Mon 6.30 to 7.30 for boys aged 8-11, 7.30 to 8.30 for boys aged 12 and 13. Girls coaching and boys aged 14 and 15 Fri 6.30 to 7.30. For details please call Kevin Humphreys 07983 120061.

Idsall Badminton Club meet at Idsall Sports Centre, Shifnal - Tue 7-9pm. All we ask is that you play to a reasonable standard. Ceroc Modern Jive and Salsa class nights at Shifnal Village Hall. Every Monday (exc Bank Hols) 7.45pm 11pm. New members always welcomed and no need to bring a partner. Contact Mike on 07990 554459, email cerocmidlands@aol.com or visit www.cerocmidlands. co.uk

St Georges

Clubbercise and Legs, Bums & Tums - Wednesdays at St Georges Sports & Social Club TF2 9LU. All fitness levels welcome age 16+. Contact Kim - 07724 087516. Or find us on Facebook 'Clubbercise Telford with Kim' HIITPad Fitness 4 week Intensive Academy. Morning and Evening groups. Held at Bailang, St Gower Street Trading Estate George's, Telford. For more info and next course dates visit www.hiitpad.co.uk Karate and Self-Defence at 1st Priorslee & St. Georges Scout Hall, Snedshill Way, St. Georges on Friday's 7.30pm to 8.30pm. Family-orientated, from beginner to black belt and beyond. Adults £3 Under 16s £2.50. Contact Zanshin-do Karate Chief Instructor Steve Lowe 6th Dan Black Belt for further information by emailing stevelowe59@blueyonder.co.uk "Koshi Wind-Chime Relaxation and Healing" Come for Healing and Relax to beautiful sounds. £5 each. St Georges & Priorslee Parish Centre. London Rd, TF2 9LJ. Every 4 wks Thu 7.30pm. Booking essential 07974 196 421 Nikki Slimming World - St Georges Sports & Social Club. Thu 9.30am, 11.30pm, 5pm and 7pm. Contact Celia Powell on 07575 123666 at St Georges Methodist Church: Tue 5-7pm Synergy Dance Troop (Contact: 01952 612776) Wed - 10.30am Pilates (Tel: 412924) / 1.30pm

Stirchley

Clubbercise - Mondays at Grange Park Primary School Grange Avenue, Stirchley. All fitness levels welcome age 16+. Contact Kim - 07724 087516. Or find us on Facebook 'Clubbercise Telford with Kim'

Telford - Town Centre

AQUABABIES - Swimming lessons for children aged 12 weeks to 3 years. Lessons held at The Park Inn hotel on Mon, Tue, Thu and Sat from 10am. To book your FREE trial lesson contact Lisa on 07598 617442 or Stuart on 01543 572855

Trench

Yoga - Mondays 7-8pm at Our Lady of the Rosary and St Luke Church Hall, Church Road, Trench, TF2 7HG. Friendly class suitable for all abilities and beginners are especially welcome. £5 per class, no need to book. Contact Debbie on 07790 006815, email debbieyogaone@gmail.com or see my website: www. yogaone.co.uk Interval Training class that suits any fitness levels - 6:30 to 7:30pm. At The Labour Club, Gibbons Rd, Trench. Proven to burn more fat than any other form of exercise. Also great fun too! Class costs £3.50. Contact Cheryl 07714 610591.

Wellington

Mindfulness and Relaxation - cultivate mindful presence and inner stillness. Weekly workshops incorporate mindful activities, meditation and relaxation, which will enable you to rejuvenate mind, body and spirit. Tuesday's 7 - 8pm at Wellington Methodist Church. Session price £7.50. Contact Lorraine: Lorraine@affinityand-beyond.co.uk or 07898 823339 for more info or to reserve a place.. Wrekin Shotokan Karate Club, at Wrekin College Sports Hall, Wellington: Wed 6:30pm; Sat 10:30am; and at Sport TCAT Mondays 7:30 pm. Learn authentic Japanese Shotokan karate from team of black belts lead by 6th Dan, Shotokan Karate International Federation, Japan. Contact: Tony on 07841 839372. Severn Spokes Cycling Group - We are a small, friendly and welcoming group of cyclists who run regular, easy paced rides from Wellington through the quiet lanes of Shropshire and beyond. Contact severnspokes@gmail. com or visit www.facebook.com/severnspokes and/or our website www.severnspokes.com Telford STAGS Walking Football - Normal Football rules except NO RUNNING! We play on a Monday morning 9.45 at the 4g pitches to the rear of AFC Telford Utd. All over 55's welcome. Also summer sessions Thu at 18.45. Contact Roy Vincent 01952 245407 for further details. KAPAP - Martial Arts Club held at TCAT, Haybridge Rd, Telford, TF1 2NP on Tuesday evenings from 7-9pm. First session free trail. Contact Paul - paul@kapaptelford. co.uk or 07737 825263.

Immerse School of Diving - we have a training and club diving session on a Friday evening at 8:30pm at Wrekin College pool. Call 0777 377 1619 or email: info@ immersediving.com; visit www.immersediving.com find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/immersediving. An active and friendly scuba diving club, we cater for beginners through to professional level divers, and charge no membership fees or surcharges on your club diving. Slimming World - Wed & Thu at The Glebe Centre, Glebe St, Wellington, 5.30 & 7.30. Call Heather on 07737 734347 01952 289386 or just pop along! All welcome. Piloxing - techniques of boxing and vertical pilates with some dance moves. Fridays 6-7pm at Charlton School - £4. For more info contact Annette on 07866 021030. Wrekin Tennis Club - Social play every Tuesday & Thursday evening starting at 7-9pm & Sunday 11am1pm. Based at Oakengates Leisure Centre New players welcome, Contact Alan Pritchard at: alanp52@yahoo. co.uk or 07596 984442 or visit our website, www. wrekintennisclub.co.uk Telford Community Tennis Club, Junior tennis coaching lessons at Bowring Park, Wellington on Sun - 10-11am (47yrs), 11-12am (8-10yrs), 12-1pm (11-16yrs). We also have sessions for adult members of all abilities. www.telfordcommunitytennisclub.co.uk E: bob.kerr@telfordcommunitytennisclub.co.uk Friendly Badminton group playing 7-9pm every Thu at TCAT Sports Hall are seeking new players to join them. Come along and try a few taster sessions at £5 per night. Contact Jenny Varley (evenings 6-7pm) on 01952 249277. Wellington Badminton Club - Sports Hall at Ercall Wood Academy, Wellington. Club nights - Tuesday 8 - 10pm. All welcome. Contact Jerry Seymour (Chairman) on 01952 261008 or email jeremy.seymour9@gmail.com Website: www.wellingtonbadminton.co.uk

Other Areas

Taoist Tai Chi Society of GB - All ages and abilities welcome. See taoist.org.uk for information and availability of classes or phone 01952 597685. Swimming Lessons - Duck N Dive Limited - Baby, preschool, afterschool & adult swimming lessons across various locations in Telford & Shifnal. T: 01952 301012, Email:info@dndswim.co.uk, Web:www.dndswim.co.uk Dance Fit at Hollinswood every Friday 2.45pm-3.30pm, call Diane Douglas on 01952 201803 for details. Sutton Heights - Music4health singing for all ages and stages every Sat. Fee £10. 11am-12 and sound healing at 2pm-3pm please book before day. Contact Linda 01952 680232 or visit www.lindaangelis.com Telford Green Gym - Want to get and have Fun? Don’t like the Gym try the Green Gym.Improve your fitness and general well being by getting involved in practical conservation.The Telford Green Gym offers activities all over Telford On Tue, Wed and Thu. Contact The healthy Lifestyles Hub 01952 382582 Arriba Wellness Club - Community Weight Loss Challenge at Fitness First, Telford. Call Lisa Harris on 07580 434325. Yoga for Pregnancy in Albrighton - Weekly classes every Mon 8-9.15pm. Gentle exercise from weeks 15-40 of your pregnancy. Methodist Church Hall, High St, Albrighton WV7 3JA. Classes from £7. Call Rebecca Jenks on 07890 543 508.

To submit an entry to this feature please email your details to: fleur@inandaroundmagazine.co.uk - please put subject as CLASSES on the email. (Space is limited so brief details please)

MOVIES THE UPSIDE

The unexpected friendship between Phillip Lacasse (Cranston), a Park Avenue billionaire left paralyzed after a hang-gliding accident, and convicted felon Dell (Hart), recently released from prison and in need of a job and a fresh start. From worlds apart, Phillip and Dell form an unlikely bond, bridging their differences and gaining invaluable wisdom in the process, giving each man a renewed sense of passion for all of lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possibilities. Release Date: 11 January 2019 Genre: Comedy, Drama Cast Members: Kevin Hart, Bryan Cranston, Nicole Kidman

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON: THE HIDDEN WORLD

As Hiccup fulfills his dream of creating a peaceful dragon utopia, Toothless' discovery of an untamed, elusive mate draws the Night Fury away. When danger mounts at home and Hiccup's reign as village chief is tested, both dragon and rider must make impossible decisions to save their kind. Date: 1 February 2019 Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure Cast Members: Cate Blanchett, Gerard Butler, Jonah Hill

COMING SOON... DESTROYER

Destroyer follows the moral and existential odyssey of LAPD detective Erin Bell who, as a young cop, was placed undercover with a gang in the California desert with tragic results. When the leader of that gang reemerges many years later, she must work her way back through the remaining members and into her own history with them to finally reckon with the demons that destroyed her past. Release Date: 25 January 2019 Genre: Action, Crime, Drama Cast Members: Nicole Kidman, Toby Kebell, Tatiana Maslany, Scoot McNairy, with Bradley Whitford, Sebastian Stan

INSTANT FAMILY

When Pete and Ellie decide to start a family, they stumble into the world of foster care adoption. They hope to take in one small child but when they meet three siblings, including a rebellious 15 year old girl (Isabela Moner), they find themselves speeding from zero to three kids overnight. Now, Pete and Ellie must hilariously try to learn the ropes of instant parenthood in the hopes of becoming a family. INSTANT FAMILY is inspired by the real events from the life of writer/director Sean Anders and also stars Octavia Spencer, Tig Notaro and Margo Martindale. Release Date: 15 February 2019 Genre: Comedy, Drama Cast Members: Mark Wahlberg, Rose Byrne, Isabela Moner, Octavia Spencer, Tig Notaro, Margo Martindale Please note that release dates are subject to change and some previews may be shown earlier.

Notes from your local Ironbridge Gorge Councillor

Tech Tip

I am delighted to confirm that our world-famous Iron Bridge is officially fully open to visitors again after more than a year of repairs as part of a £3.6m Conservation project by English Heritage. A new lighting scheme will be also installed by the Iron bridge in the new year to enhance its unique structure and we are also exploring pedestrian lighting to improve visibility whilst walking on the deck of the bridge. It is wonderful to see the structure again and to see the bridge restored to its former glory as a beacon of the industrial revolution.

For many of us, our phone has become our main camera. But what would happen to your precious pics if you couldn’t get into your phone?

On the 23rd November 2017 our Ironmen hung their boots from the Foundry gates as they left the Coalbrookdale Foundry for the final time. It was a profound day and moment in history. Over the course of this year, Aga have undertaken demolition on the site, which has seen the equipment and assets removed and earlier this year the Coalbrookdale Foundry was put on the market as Land and Buildings for sale. An unconditional offer has been made for this site and an announcement may be made in the New Year.

A lost or damaged handset can easily be replaced, but memories can’t, so it really is crucial that you have a backup of any photos that matter to you. At the very minimum you should ensure that every picture and video is automatically uploaded to ‘the cloud’ e.g. iCloud (Apple phones) or Google (Android).

I have emphasised the potential of this site and desire to ensure that the history of the site is recognised within any future proposal, the considerations that will need to explored to ensure that any proposal does not negatively impact the local community and the opportunities that could exist within this site to positively contribute to the local area such as additional parking for residents.

But for ‘belt and braces’ make extra copies. Connect your phone to your PC regularly and copy your photos across to your hard-drive or use a third-party app such as Flickr or Dropbox to make and store duplicate copies. Or you could use a tried and tested way of backing up photos: print them!

The former foundry is at the very heart of Coalbrookdale and this is a golden opportunity to harness the heritage, history and opportunities associated with this unique site.

Cllr. Nicola Lowery (Ironbridge Gorge Ward) T: 01952 380 718 M: 07583 041 568 E: nicola.lowery@telford.gov.uk @Nic_Ironbridge

Nic.Ironbridge

Cllr Nicola Lowery

PUZZLE - ANSWERS SUDUKO (EASY)

SUDUKO (HARD)

WORD LADDER Here is one possible solution (others may exist)

BOAT boot book look lock DOCK

CODEWORD WORDWHEEL SAXIFRAGE

CROSSWORD Across: 1 Malaise, 5 Dahl, 10 Adams, 11 Farrier, 12 Concertina, 14 Oxygen, 16 Astern, 19 Salamander, 23 Evil eye, 24 Plume, 25 Bust, 26 Kestrel. Down: 2 Anarchy, 3 Arson, 4 Soften, 6 Align, 7 Lira, 8 Backlog, 9 Gratis, 13 Aniseed, 15 Eraser, 17 En route, 18 Manège, 20 Amiss, 21 Depot, 22 Verb.

HIDATO KIDS PAGE Henry collects 11 presents on the route. There are 8 hearts. The Eiffel Tower order is... D, B, E, F, A and C.

TRIAL

3 Letters DOE DOG EGO ERG GOD ODE ORE PEG PER POD PRO RED REP

ROD ROE 4 Letters DOER DOPE DROP ERGO GORE OGRE PORE PROD REDO ROED

ROPE 5 Letters GORED GROPE PORED ROPED 6 Letters GROPED

COMMUNITY & WHATS ON

History Chanel is one of the most iconic names in haute couture and its founder, Coco, was a legend in her own lifetime. Said to be responsible for making the tan fashionable, she is equally famous for her sayings that included “A woman can never be too rich or too thin”. This month we look back at the inventor of the LBD and Chanel No. 5. Coco Chanel’s story is a classic ragsto-riches tale. Born in 1883 at a charity hospital to unmarried parents Eugénie Devolle (Jeanne) and peddlar Albert Chanel, Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel rose above her humble start to become one of the most influential people of the 20th century – not only for her fashion design, dressmaking and millinery skills but also for the way in which she revolutionised how women dressed. Chanel grew up with two brothers and three sisters in a oneroom lodging house until her mother died of TB when she was 12. She was then sent to an orphanage in Aubazine. It was here that she learned to sew. Her early aspirations were to be a performer, however, and after she left the orphanage, Gabrielle got a job singing between acts at La Rotonde, a popular cabaret venue. It was here she earned the nickname Coco. Her voice, however, was not good enough to propel her onto the main stage. At the age of 23, she met the rich textile heir Etienne Balsan at La Rotonde and became his mistress, moving into his chateau near Compiègne. Balsan showed her a life of luxury and she started designing hats. Two years later she attracted the attention of a friend of Balsan’s, an Englishman called Arthur ‘Boy’ Capel. After she became a licensed milliner in 1910, it was Capel who installed her in Paris and set her up with her first shop – Chanel Modes. She quickly earned the patronage of actress Gabrielle Dorziat and her hats became sought after. In 1913, Capel helped finance her second shop – a clothing boutique in Deauville which sold casual outfits for leisure and sport in fabrics like jersey and tricot, which had previously only ever been used to make men’s underwear. She conceived her popular sailor blouse here and was helped by her sister Antoinette and her Aunt Adrienne, who would model and promote her designs. In 1915, with World War One underway, Coco opened another shop, this time in Biarritz where many wealthy Spaniards had been exiled. The shop was so successful that Coco was able to pay back all the money that Capel had given her. Capel’s elegance and taste in clothing influenced Coco greatly and although she loved him, he went on to marry an English

THE HISTORY OF COCO aristocrat, Lady Diana Wyndham, in 1918. It was a terrible blow to Coco when he was killed in a car crash a year later and she never truly recovered from it. By now a qualified couturière, she set up her own fashion house in the prestigious Rue Cambon in Paris, selling hats, clothing and her Chanel No. 5 perfume. Women adored her boyish look and modern easyto-wear style. Her eponymous little black dress was nicknamed Le Garçonne (the boy) and was revolutionary for using a colour previously only worn for mourning. Her famous straight-lined Chanel suit, which was released in 1925, bore many hallmarks of men’s tailoring and didn’t require a corset. She would say: “Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury.” The business grew and in 1920 Coco was helping to both finance and design dance costumes for the famous Ballet Russes, inviting the exiled Russian composer Igor Stravinksy and his family to share her home Bel Respiro. Theophile Bader, the founder of Galleries Lafayette, was keen to sell Chanel No. 5 with its signature square bottle (said to have been modelled on Capel’s aftershave), and persuaded Coco to part with all but a 10% share in ‘Parfums Chanel’ that he set up with the Wertheimer brothers, owners of the perfume and jewellery firm Bourjois. Coco was to regret her decision for the next twenty years and after the war, took the men to court and had the terms re-negotiated with back payments that made her a millionaire. Known for her cutting wit, Chanel moved in the most fashionable circles in Paris and was friends and lovers with the talented, famous and elite, including Pablo Picasso and the Prince of Wales. The Duke of Westminster, a long-time lover, gave her the land on which she built her villa La Pausa and even proposed to her, but she never married, saying: “I never wanted to weigh more heavily on a man than a bird”. During the 1930s, popularity with her clothes waned and she decided to shut her Maison de Chanel at the start of the war – 4,000 people lost their jobs. Her anti-Semitic views and subsequent affair with a German soldier caused scandal and following the war, Coco went into hiding in Switzerland. In the 1950s, Coco Chanel re-emerged on the fashion scene to become as popular as she ever was. She was 70. Marilyn Monroe famously said that Chanel No. 5 was the only thing she wore in bed. Coco spent her last 30 years in the Paris Ritz and died there in January 1971. Designer Karl Lagerfield took over her mantle in 1983 and still works out of her original premises. Today her famous Chanel brand, with the interlocking C logo she designed, is owned by the Wertheimer family and generates millions. As Coco once said: “Fashion fades but style remains.”

by Cathrine Rose

NPB Garden and Ground Maintenance If you would like a polite, friendly person to tend to your gardens on a regular basis at an affordable price, do not hesitate to contact Nigel today!

Grass Cutting Hedge Maintenance Garden Borders Turf Laying Fence Painting Paths Cleaned

CALL Nigel: 07753 690 141 E: nickybiddulph791@hotmail.co.uk

Installation of Fires & Stoves ALPINE

DDFlue Linings DDLog Burners DDStoves DDChimney Work DDRoof Work

OW CALL N UR O Y T E TO G NER R U B G LO ! D E T FIT

Hetas approved installer of Solid Fuel Chimney Systems

Call Lee on 01952 276417 or 07813 921907

GARDENHAND

General Garden & Household Maintenance • All Types of Fencing • NPTC Qualified - All Types of Tree Work Undertaken • House Clearances • All Work to a Very High Standard For a Free Quote call Andy on..

01952 606756 or 07929 950091 10% OFF if you mention this Advert

plumbing bathrooms repairs painting / decorating garden work CALL OUTS Lettings approved

No job too small

CKN Property Maintenance Call today for your free quote.

call Karl on: 07914 492367 E: cknhomeservices@gmail.com View our range of products online or look out for us at local events!

No job too small!

Switches, Sockets & Lighting Replacement Consumer Unit Outdoor Lighting Full and Part House Rewires Emergency Call Outs

Home Inspirations

Contact: David Copeland M: 07866 455 993 T: 01952 404 635

E: copelandelectricals@gmail.com

Are you interested in delivering this magazine? Contact us to join our waiting list for delivery people? Call Fleur Abel on 01952 603457

Call Michelle on 01952 670067 or 07961 848467 E: michelle@homeinspirations.biz

www.homeinspirations.biz

TELFORD Triathlon CLUB Have you ever wanted to take part in a triathlon or a multi sport activity?

If you’re interested in joining our club or would like to come along to try one of our coached training sessions either at Oakengates Leisure Centre or Much Wenlock Swimming pool then we’d love to see you. We aim to encourage our members to achieve their best, whether it is improving on race times, entering their first triathlon, or simply trying something new.

or email: fleur@inandaroundmagazine.co.uk

www.inandaroundmagazine.co.uk

swim. bike. run

f facebook.com/telfordtri e E: info@telfordtri.co.uk w www.telfordtri.co.uk

YOUR business could be advertising in this space from just *£45 per month.

R P D G O E You have two minutes to find all the words of three or more letters that can be made from the letters above. Plurals are allowed, proper nouns are not. The 6 letter word will always be just a normal everyday word.

3 letters: 15 4 letters: 11 5 letters: 4 6 letters: 1

30,000

Reach homes across select areas of Telford, Newport & Shifnal. The ONLY magazine in the area to deliver ALL magazines directly door to door! Call Fleur Abel on 01952 603457 or email: fleur@inandaroundmagazine.co.uk www.inandaroundmagazine.co.uk * Based on a booking for 12 months. 15,000 copies delivered each month, delivery rotated between 2 areas to reach a total of 30,000 homes over a 2 month period,

FIONA REILLY

Doggy Day Care • Home Boarding • Dog Walking • Pet Sitting

Micropigmentation Specialist

10% o�

• Eyebrows • Eyeliner • Lip Liner or Full Lips

your ﬁrst booking

07720 233 034

North Shropshire

fiona-reilly@outlook.com

01952 798513 07379 369163 www.mybestfrienddogcare.co.uk/north-shropshire/

@fionamicropig Fiona Reilly Micropigmentation Specialist

TEL: 01952 604285

d o o w h c Wy

Shropshire’s Premier Dog Care & Cardio Specialists Dog Adventure Walks Dog Running Pet Drop-Ins

www.wychwoodkennels.co.uk

BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERY

Kynnersley Drive, The Hincks, Lilleshall, Newport TF10 9HS

Evenett and Bishop Opticians

07904 717898 info@dog-jogs.co.uk www.dog-jogs.co.uk

PJ's Re-upholstery Services

All types of

Grandfather, Father & Son - 3rd Generation Upholsterer

contact lenses

If your spring goes ping give us a ring!

fitted

3D Eye Scans NOW Available Our new OCT Scanner captures both a photograph and a cross-sectional scan of the eye at the same time

Large range of Frames including Childrens

Registered with the General Optical Council.

35 High Street, Newport. TF10 7AT • T: 01952 810 808

www.evenettandbishopopticians.co.uk

For all your domestic cleaning needs

Call Tracey on 07411 610 401 or Samantha on 07812 438 574

Antique or Modern Sofas & Chairs Dining Chairs Springs & Repairs

07802 491651 01952 610828

NO JOB TOO SMALL Card payments now accepted

www.pjsreupholsteryservices.co.uk

Est. 1976

Quality Domestic Cleaners Weekly or Fortnightly Cleans End of Tenancy Cleans Very Reliable Fully Insured References can be supplied

LEAFLET DISTRIBUTION Delivered monthly within this magazine

Reaching a total of *30,000 select homes across Telford, Newport & Shifnal areas You can choose the areas you want - call for a list of areas to choose from WE CAN ALSO DESIGN AND PRINT THEM FOR YOU TOO!

£40

+VAT

per 1000

*Delivery rotated between 2 areas reaching 15,000 homes each month.

For further details please contact Fleur Abel on 01952 603457 E: fleur@inandaroundmagazine.co.uk • www.inandaroundmagazine.co.uk

MASALA

INDIAN RESTAURANT & TAKEAWAY

T: 01952 820085

15% OFF Collection - only on orders over £15 after 9pm *

20% OFF MAIN COURSE WHEN DINING IN AFTER 9PM - PRE BOOKING ONLY

FEEL FREE TO BRING YOUR OWN ALCOHOLIC DRINKS *Please present this voucher. Valid until 31-1-19 Maxiumum 6 people. Not to be used with any other offers.

Adams House, 7 High St, Newport TF10 7AR

Index of Advertisers

YOUR QUICK GUIDE TO EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING IN YOUR LOCAL MAGAZINE...

Bathrooms A. Watson Home Improvements.............85 MKM..................................................................... 3 Regent House................................................ 70 Telford Maintenance Ltd.............................82

Estate Agents & Property Barker Healey................................................ 49 Julia Weston................................................... 44 Lioncourt Homes...........................................47 Nock Deighton....................................... 40-43

Optician Evenett & Bishop Opticians......................97 Tim Vanes Opticians...................................... 9

Beauty Ashley Gamble.......................................... 18-19 Beauty by Jude..............................................23 BooshTOX..................................................20-21 Fiona Reilly Micropigmentation...............97 Park Street Clinic............................................17

Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture SB Sports Clinic............................................... 8 Farm Shop/Markets/Food Fayre Green Fields Farm Shop..............................31

Pet Care (Dog Care, Kennels & Cattery) Dog Jogs..........................................................97 My Best Friend...............................................97 Wychwood.......................................................97

Financial Services CD Financial....................................................63

Physiotherapy SB Sports Injury & Physio. Clinics............. 8

Bedrooms Instyle House...................................................51 Bricks & Building Materials Huws Gray........................................................75 Jewsons............................................................55 MKM..................................................................... 3 Builder Louka Fine Finish......................................... 69 CCTV Telford CCTV...................................................82 Car Sales (New/Used) Mercedes Benz of Shrewsbury................57 Carpet, Rugs & Floor Coverings Oakengates Carpets.....................................51 Chimneys Alpine............................................................... 96 Cleaning Active Cleaning..............................................85 Shaw Clean - Tim Shaw..............................87 Sutherlands Clean Carpets.........................81 Tracey & Samantha Domestic Cleaning.....97 Councillors Local Councillors.......................................... 94 Decorating Neil Rogers......................................................87 Simon’s Décor ...............................................87 WE Dunne........................................................87 Design & Print I and A Print...................................................... 2 Doors The Door Store...............................................77 Driveways & Patios Central Paving................................................55 Dry Cleaning Chelsea's of Shropshire...............................61 Education Bears Den Pre-school................................. 34 Haberdashers' Adams.................................37 Old Hall School..............................................39 Royal Wolverhampton School..................39 Tettenhall College.........................................35 Wolverhampton Grammar School..........33

Fireplaces, Fires & Stoves Admaston Firecraft Centre........................73 Alpine............................................................... 96 Grate Ideas..................................................... 99 Footcare The Foot Doctor..............................................11 Telford Footcare............................................ 10 Garage Doors Garolla Garage Doors..................................59 Garden, Plants & Building Supplies Bloomsbury Nursery....................................53 Digger & Driver..............................................97 Huws Gray........................................................75 Jewsons............................................................55 MKM..................................................................... 3 Gardening/Landscaping A J Landscapes..............................................53 Gardenhand.................................................... 96 NPB Garden & Ground Maintenance.... 96 Glass & Glazing Darwin Glass & Glazing...............................85 Gutter Cleaning Gutter PRO......................................................83 Hairdressing Ashley Gamble................................................19 Health & Fitness Body Barn.......................................................... 7 Patshull Park Hotel......................................... 9 Telford Hotel & Golf Resort......................... 7 Telford Tri-Club............................................. 96 Kitchens (Supply & Fit) Kitchen Depot............................................. 100 R & R Kitchens.................................................71 Regent House................................................ 70 Laundry Telford Laundry..............................................67 Legal Services EKM Legal Services......................................65 Parry Carver Solicitors................................65 Terry Jones Solicitors..................................63 Loft Ladders/Boarding Jakes n Ladders.............................................73 Reveal a Space...............................................79

Electricians Buzz Electrical.................................................81 Copelands Electrical................................... 96 Del Corley Electrical Services....................81

Log Burner Installation Alpine............................................................... 96

Entertainment / Events Hadley Park House.......................................27 Wolverhampton Racecourse....................26

Oak Structures Louka Fine Finish......................................... 69 Select Joinery.................................................79

Logs Holts...................................................................53

Oven Cleaning Active Cleaning..............................................85

Plumbing & Heating A. Watson Home Improvements.............85 Printing I and A Print...................................................... 2 Property Maintenance CKN................................................................... 96 Louka Home Care........................................ 69 Telford Maintenance Ltd.............................82 Recruitment Reassure............................................................. 5 Removals Jays Removals............................................... 46 Restaurants/Pubs/Cafes Hadley Park House.......................................27 Masala................................................................97 Patshull Park Hotel......................................... 9 Tayleur Arms...................................................29 Telford Hotel & Golf Resort......................... 7 The Barley.........................................................31 The Bridge Inn................................................29 The Huntsman......................................... 24-25 White House Hotel.......................................26 Wolverhampton Racecourse....................26 Skips/Waste Disposal Cartwrights Waste Disposal Services ...... 82 Spa Telford Hotel & Golf Resort......................... 7 Sports Massage SB Sports Injury & Physio. Clinics............. 8 Solicitor Parry Carver Solicitors................................65 Terry Jones Solicitors..................................63 Tool Hire Jewsons............................................................55 Tree Care Holts Tree Care...............................................53 Upholstery PJ’s Re-Upholstery Services......................97 Websites Kalidescope......................................................61 Weddings Hadley Park House Hotel...........................27 Patshull Park Hotel......................................... 9 Telford Hotel & Golf Resort......................... 7 Will Writing EKM Legal Services......................................65 Parry Carver....................................................65 Windows/Doors/Conservatories APH Windows................................................79 Daylite Windows...........................................74 R & R Services................................................77 Trotfield Windows..........................................71

A range of Solid Fuel Stoves are NOW available

Choose from a wide range of Fires and Surrounds Authorised Dealer for: • Paragon Fires • Montpellier Marble • Gazco and Stovax • Worcester Marble • Esse and many more... • Wonderfire Premier

www.grateideas.co.uk

One of the finest Showrooms in Shropshire

FULL FITTING SERVICE AVAILABLE

Castle Trading Estate, Holyhead Road, Priorslee, Telford TF2 9NP

T: 01952 620189

Email: enquiries@grateideas.co.uk 99

Family owned with family values

A friendly, professional service to offer you a wide range of high quality bespoke kitchens, manufactured locally, at great prices.

Contemporary

Modern Classic

Traditional

Call into your local showroom: Global House, Off Trench Road, Telford TF2 6PD. We also have showrooms in: Hemel Hempstead Shrewsbury Wolverhampton

Visit us online at:

thekitchendepot.co.uk 100

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