Issuu

Your table awaits...

Classic British dining with a modern touch

We are a family-owned restaurant and bar, proudly awarded TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2024. At The Cherry Tree, we serve classic British cooking with a warm, friendly, and personal service that keeps our guests coming back.

Our menu is a celebration of Lancashire’s finest. With the freshest local produce at our doorstep, we craft timeless dishes with a modern twist — from the best cuts of local meat and fresh fish from our glorious coastline to seasonal fruit and vegetables bursting with flavour.

The Garden Room

The true heart and soul of the The Cherry Tree. The dining room everyone is talking about. Our Garden room will leave you breathless with its stunning blossom tree decor, spacious booths, beautifully designed cocktail bar and clear views of the Garden. The Garden Room is perfect for all occasions.

The Con servatory

The Garden Terrace

Six beautiful oral decorated booths, boasting views of the garden room and our garden area. This dining terrace can be fully opened on those summer days making it the perfect spot to enjoy al fresco dining and cocktails in the sun.

The Blossom Lounge

With luscious foliage and jungle textures, this room will certainly not disappoint. Moon shaped booths alongside natural light from our garden area make this the perfect room to impress your guests and ‘enjoy it all.’

The Blossom Lounge

Nestled between our public bar and conservatory dining room is the blossom lounge. Impressive blossom trees hug the walls and ceiling, making this area perfect for intimate dining and amazing for group reservations.

The Public Bar and Cocktail Lounge

The Bar at the Cherry Tree is a destination in its own right. A perfect place to meet family, friends, go on a date, enjoy pre-dinner drinks or celebrate a special occasion. Our Bar Manager and his team have curated an exciting, contemporary cocktail menu, heavily in uenced by their trips all over the world.

New Afternoon Tea Menu Festive Season

Our newly created menu will be launched on Monday 22nd August.

Our brand-new Afternoon Tea menu is the perfect way to unwind this season. Enjoy a selection of delicate sandwiches – from smoked salmon & cream cheese to coronation chicken sliders – paired with warm savouries like homemade sausage rolls and a comforting cup of soup. Finish on a sweet note with lemon drizzle cake, chocolate brownies, and our signature scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam. A vegetarian Afternoon Tea is also available.

Coming soon... our New Menu

Our menus combine unpretentious modern British avours whilst focusing on strong classical techniques to create our take on modern British dining. We only use locally sourced produce from all of our chosen suppliers, working with the seasons, making us the Best Restaurant in Bolton.

Our newly created menu will be launched on Monday 22nd August.

Our menus combine unpretentious modern British avours whilst focusing on strong classical

Our main menu has been carefully created by our chefs whose intention is for you to experience new, interesting dishes with exciting avours.

On Sundays, we also have delicious, succulent roast dinner options available too!

Sandwiches

Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese on Farmhouse Brown Loaf Honey-Roast Ham on White Bread | Grain Mustard, Sliced Gouda Cheese

Egg Mayonnaise on Brown Bread | Cress Coronation Chicken Sliders on Brioche Buns | Gem Lettuce

Warm Savouries

Homemade Sausage Roll | Branston Pickle Hot Cup of Soup

Desserts

Lemon Drizzle Cake | Lemon Frosting Cream

Homemade Scones | Clotted Cream and Strawberry Jam

Chocolate Brownie | Fudge Cream

Afternoon Tea Pricing:

Classic Afternoon Tea – £29.95 per person

Sparkling Afternoon Tea – £34.95 per person

Cocktail Afternoon Tea – £34.95 per person

Vegetarian option available

Celebrate the season in style with our festive menu – perfect for family gettogethers, work parties, or a cosy catch-up with friends. Enjoy a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings, alongside a selection of seasonal favourites crafted to bring warmth and joy to your table. Book your festive reservation by October 31st for any date between December 1st and 14th, and enjoy an exclusive 15% off as our early gift to you! Quote Festive15 at the time of booking. T&C’s apply.

Blossom

Nestled between our public bar and conservatory dining room is the blossom lounge. Impressive blossom trees hug the walls and ceiling, making this

IN THIS ISSUE

By Angela Kelly

48 hours in Aberdeen

18-19

CELEBRITY FEATURE

007 James Bond Pierce Brosnan

24-26 HOME

Preparing for Winter

MOTORING

Steve Howarth’s test drive, KIA EV3

35-36 GARDEN

Tend it like Beckham

42-44 FOOD

Chinese made easy

Ground Floor | 546 Blackburn Road | Astley Bridge Bolton BL1 8NW.

Sales Enquiries : T: (01204) 238180

E: artwork@mcgrathmedia.co.uk www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Bolton Market

TWITTERING ON

By Angela Kelly

- because x’ing on doesn’t sound quite the same

Sport Shows Just Who You Are

IF there’s one activity that reveals a person’s true character it’s the way they play their sport.

The decent people in life – you know, the ones really worth bothering about – will be as fair and even-handed there are you’ve found them in the rest of their lives.

Those worth cutting out of your life simply won’t.

Two brilliant examples came this Summer. One in the way the Lionesses conducted themselves in the Euros and the other in a visiting US President, who shall be nameless, having a round of golf.

The Lionesses were individually inspiring but together made up an amazing squad who played for each other, their remarkable manager and their adoring country.

Lucy Bronze played the tournament with a broken leg, for goodness sake.

The other person in this analogy allegedly shamelessly allowed an aide to drop his golf ball in an advantageous spot during a round.

My own experiences have been very much more low-key during a lifetime of amateur sport but, I suspect, very typical.

I’ve played badminton, rounders and now Pickleball against some wonderful people – just, modest and a credit to their sport.

I’ve also played against some selfish, untrustworthy individuals who are a waste of space.

Cheating in any sport, amateur or professional, is unforgivable and

immediately shows up those who just cut corners without any real love of a sport or respect for all those taking part.

Probably just how they are in everyday life, too.

Anyone who has played an amateur sport has suffered from creative line-calling, bending of rules and other worrying decisions. We all know the culprits and word soon spreads but –and this is also a great character-revealing trait – they don’t care.

Winning is all that matters and the chance to boast about it. But, unknowingly, they devalue the coinage.

Everyone else knows how they got to that elevated point and, even if they are talented, they get no credit for it.

All I know is that if I had to choose between someone who always played fairly in their chosen sport, always ensured the rules were followed and that points and prizes were allocated properly, and those who didn’t I would – and do – select a group of the best I’m proud to call my friends.

Lucky Name Choices for Children

APPARENTLY, if you want to give your child the chance to be a huge success in life, their name choice is vital.

Research by gambling site Gamblizard, highlighted in The Sun, analyses Forbest’ Real-Time Billionaires showing the 10 most common names among the globe’s most wealthy people.

The main guide for names is to go for classics, including some which derive from the Bible.

Of today’s 2,700 billionaires, 50 of them are called Michael or versions of it. Think media mogul Michael Bloomberg and tech tycoon Michael Dell.

The biblical name John also scores highly – chocolatier John Mars, for example.

Andrew is next followed by David and Marc/Mark in fifth place. George and Carl are next with Eric and James just behind and in 10th place, Jeff tied with Jim and Li.

Women only constitute 13 per cent of global billionaires but, again, certain names may increase a girl’s chances of achieving great wealth.

Here, traditional names like Maria and versions of it take the top spot, like Maria Bianchi the fashion designer and businesswoman heading Italian high-end Prada and Miu Miu brands.

Catherine, Anna, Susan, Elizabeth, Alexandra, Christine, Julia, Alice and Wu follow that. In fact the richest woman on the planet is an Alice – Alice Walton, daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton and worth £78.5 billion.

Commonsense, though, suggests these names are only a guide. After all, the world’s richest man is Elon Musk.

Whatever way you use to choose the name of your offspring, the advice is to go for a lucky name if you can. And I suppose luck can easily be measured in billions.

There’s A Badge for Everything!

YOU’VE got to admire the girlguides with the way they keep up with modern trends in 2025.

The famous organisation was started in 1909 by Agnes BadenPowell, wife of Robert Baden-Powell who started the scouts’ movement.

The Girl Guides Association was started the following year and is now in 150 countries with almost 300,000 girlguides and young Rainbows nationally.

They have remained relevant to life throughout the decades, given the usual highs and lows, but their latest move seems to chime very much with the current decade.

They have just rolled out 72 new badges, or emblems, in a major modernisation drive to represent “modern life in the 21st century.”

Interestingly, the Hostess badge, dropped for a while, comes back with a gender neutral makeover and now called Celebrations. This reflects how young people learn about and plan celebrations and bring others together to “make lots of happy memories.”

Girls will now also be rewarded for having a good night’s sleep, critiquing food, discovering a new hobby and planning a holiday. Skills include mechanics and entomology (the scientific study of insects).

The badges are given to wear on their uniforms and are divided into sections to encourage wellness, knowing oneself, learning and having adventures, among other things.

The 72 were chosen after more than 4,000 badge design ideas were submitted by girls and volunteers and 11,000 girls from 753 girlguiding units across the UK took part.

Broadcaster and presenter Angelica Bell joined the movement as an ambassador to help launch this latest project. She states: “Girlguiding offers a safe and welcoming space for all girls.

“I am so impressed by the work they do to build girls’ confidence and wellbeing whilst tackling important issues impacting their lives such as online harm, sexism and misogyny.

“It was a real blast trying out the new badges with girlguiding members. I know first-hand just how important it is for girls to have activities outside school to educate but also have fun.”

So, good luck all you girlguides in getting those special badges!

48 Hours in Aberdeen

By Rebecca Underwood, BA Hons | Travel Journalist

Aberdeen, bonnie Scotland’s third largest city, is located ninety three miles northeast of Edinburgh and features a long, sandy coastline. As a result of the discovery of North Sea oil in the 1960’s the city has prospered and due to the unearthing of prehistoric settlements around the mouths of the rivers Don and Dee, the areas surrounding Aberdeen date back at least 8,000 years. There is much to explore.

Arriving rather late and feeling weary I made my way to the Sandman Signature, a contemporary hotel and spa located on St Andrew’s Street, in the centre of the city. After a swift and efficient check-in my luggage was whisked away and I was escorted to an executive suite measuring 502 square feet. The Modern furnishings and colourful, soothing décor, ensured that I felt relaxed and I was delighted with the fully equipped kitchen, which features a fridge freezer, hob, and microwave. After a long soak in the free-standing tub I climbed into the super king bed and embarked on a deep and comfortable slumber.

Up with the larks and following a luxurious shower and a piping hot coffee I was ready to explore the city. I hurried along to the Aberdeen Art Gallery, which is a short stroll away on Schoolhill and is simply crammed with treasures. This striking property, which reopened in 2019 following four years of extensive refurbishment, reflects a neo-classical style. On arrival, I was delighted to discover an inviting café on the ground floor, which was the ideal place to browse through some literature that I had collected from the reception. I ordered the first class Eggs Benedict with a chilled glass of fresh orange juice and I was ready to explore the gallery. The property was originally opened in 1885 and the collections are defined by Archaeology, which includes a wide array of medieval material. The Fine Art section features mesmerising masterpieces by Renoir and Monet alongside other gems. Textiles, Fashion and Jewellery, Craft and Applied Art, Coins, Medals and Tokens, Social

History (which reflects the experiences of locals at work and at leisure), Science, Technology and Industry will not fail to retain the viewer’s interest and the Maritime History section is where, I must confess, I spent an extensive period of time inspecting the intriguing exhibits.

For those of us with a history of sea faring, a visit to the Maritime Museum, a short walk away, is a must. Located on Shiprow, by the harbour, this museum presents fascinating exhibits, recording the story of the city’s long history with the sea, beginning with

Dunnottar Castle

St Machars Cathedral

the history of shipbuilding, fishing and trading and ending with the intriguing story of off-shore energy.

As I entered the property I spotted the splendid bronze sculpted figures reflecting the city’s fishing heritage. I wandered around at leisure and admired the displays of artworks confirming Aberdeen’s rich maritime history and I was enthralled by the very detailed models of ships dating back to 1689. One of the many highlights includes a model of the Thermopylae, the Aberdeen-built tea clipper, which was built in Dumbarton, Scotland, in 1869, and is considered to be a rival to the famous Cutty Sark.

Approximately three thousand ships were built in Aberdeen between 1790 and 1989 and another interesting exhibit includes the ship plans of the Jho Sho Maru, one the modern Japanese navy’s warships. The off-shore energy exhibits include a model of the Murchison oil production platform, which is nine metres high and certainly fires the imagination as to the life of those who work in the industry.

Another of the many highlights of my explorations was a visit to the Gordon Highlander’s Museum on St Luke’s Viewfield Road. I hopped on bus number eleven and was there in a jiffy. The Gordon Highlanders, a regiment of the British Army, was raised in 1794 by the 4th Duke of Gordon and included local fishermen, farmers, labourers, ghillies, members of the aristocracy and students and Winston Churchill described it as ‘the finest regiment in the world’. With a history spanning two hundred years, the regiment formed during the Napoleonic era and continued through the Victorian and Edwardian ages, WWI and WWII and through the twentieth century. Exhibits include a WWI replica trench, which gives some insight into how intolerable the conditions of war are and how brave those who fought were. A beautiful collection of regimental silver caught my eye and I was mesmerised by the collection of eleven original Victoria Crosses.

In 1994 the regiment was amalgamated with the Camerons and the Seaforths to form the Highlanders regiment.

Another popular attraction, which draws the crowds, is St Machar’s cathedral, located on The Chanonry. St Machar’s is Aberdeen’s oldest building in active use and dates back to the early part of the fifteenth century. Features include a heraldic ceiling, which dates back to 1520 and displays 48 coats of arms including Pope Leo X and following the execution of Sir William Wallace in 1305, a Scottish knight who was one of the leaders during the First War of Scottish Independence, his body was cut up and sections were sent to several places in the country in order to deter rebels. His left quarter is buried in the walls of the cathedral.

Back to the hotel and after a short nap I decided to dine in-house and headed for the Chop Grill Bar. I was escorted to a table and I ordered the Battered Haddock and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, which were served with aplomb.

After a long lie in and a refreshing shower I donned my hiking boots and ordered a taxi for the half-hour journey to the spectacular Dunnottar Castle, which was featured in Franco Zeffirelli’s movie Hamlet with Mel Gibson in the lead role.

This medieval ruin at the top of an isolated rocky outcrop is separated from the mainland and surrounded by the North Sea on three sides. The surviving buildings date back to the 15th and 16th centuries and due to its location and defensive might it played an essential role in the history of Scotland by protecting the Scottish crown jewels from Cromwell‘s invasion during the 17th century.

From the 14th century the castle was owned by the Keiths, a Highland and Lowland clan who held the seat of the Earl Marischal. Dunnottar fell into decline when George Keith, who was the last Earl, joined the 1715 Jacobite rebellion and his titles were forfeited. The restoration of the property took place during the 20th century and twelve structures on the site are listed buildings.

As my visit to Aberdeen came to an end I wandered around the site and gazed across the North Sea and reflected on the words of Lord Byron, one of the city’s most gifted residents, ‘There is pleasure in the pathless woods, there is rapture in the lonely shore, there is society where none intrudes, by the deep sea, and music in its roar; I love not Man the less, but nature more’.

Images, excluding accommodation, provided by visitScotland and visitAberdeen.

DOOR TO D OO R COACH TOURS 2 02 3

WE DO THINGS A BIT DIFFERENTLY THAN OUR RIVALS.

If you’ve never tried coach holidays before, why not let

All our tours include our ‘Door to Door’ service. That means that you are picked up by a taxi or small minibus right from your front door. No feeders, no interchanges, no changing coaches, no changing drivers and definately no hassle!

We’ve been established for over 120 yearsso we know a bit about coaching holidays!

www.ellensmith.co.uk

WE ARE FINANCIALLY SECURE.

We are members of the Bonded Coach Holiday group overseen by The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Ltd. This is a Government Approved Protection Scheme.

Y FINANCIAL

And use some excellent privately-owned hotels. All visits and excursions a n coaches ans matu

HOW DOES IT WORK? l

We use a wide range of mainly 3 and 4 star hotels, some privately owned many part of larger chains. All entrances and excursions are included in the price stated.

WE’RE OFF ON HOLID

We use modern executive coaches and all our drivers are experienced, mature and

The same happens on the way back too, taxi back

All our customers are offered our coach specific insurance, pre existing medical conditions

think of!

Join our facebook community by ‘liking’ our page to vie fers, customer comments and various photographs

The Auckland Hotel Stroll along Morecambe’s award-winning promenade with an ice-cream before visiting the Eric Morecambe Statue, and The Tern Project, a series of public art installations inspired by the birdlife of Morecambe Bay.

The Marlborough Hotel

Llandudno is Wales’s largest resort, uniquely situated between the Great and Little Ormes with two wonderful beaches, the award-winning North Shore and the quiet, sand-duned West Shore.

The Trouville Hotel

Boasting award-winning beaches, unspoilt and spectacular scenery, and a rich, historical heritage, the Isle of Wight has something for everyone to enjoy. Discover picturesque villages, spectacular cliffs, and sandy beaches. Our base is Sandown, a traditional seaside resort with long stretches of beach and a Victorian pier.

The Ivy Bush Royal Hotel

The natural beauty of the Pembrokeshire coast and the Gower Peninsula are famed all over the world. Glorious sandy beaches and seemingly endless rugged coastline give way to the Preseli Hills, historic towns and little villages – a delightful corner of Wales.

WARNER HOTELS – THE RUNNYMEDE

The Runnymede

Surrey is a beautiful, exciting and diverse place to visit that’s full of surprises. With vibrant towns surrounded by spectacular countryside including the scenic Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there’s plenty waiting for you to explore.

TURKEY & TINSEL IN NEWQUAY

Esplanade Hotel

Perched on Cornwall’s Atlantic Coast and bordered by several miles of golden beaches, it’s no wonder Newquay is one of the nation’s favourite seaside towns. The last few years have seen Newquay blossom as a destination for lovers of good food.

CELTIC ROYAL WINTER WARMER

The Celtic Royal Hotel

The epic landscapes of north Wales are alive with action, and a rich, distinctive culture. Find World Heritage, fascinating ancient culture, one of Europe’s oldest living languages and thrilling mountain scenery.

THURSFORD CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

The Mercure Hotel

The Thursford Christmas Spectacular is the largest Christmas Show in the country! Set in the magical surroundings of mechanical organs and fairground carousels, with a cast of 130 professional singers, dancers, and musicians – many of whom are West End performers.

WINTER WARMER IN BONNIE SCOTLAND

Best Western Crianlarich Hotel

The village of Crianlarich is in Glen Strathfillan to the north of The Trossachs and is an important staging post on various transport routes linking central and northwestern Scotland.

A SELECTION OF OUR COACH TOURS 2025

FESTIVE SIDMOUTH

LOOE, CORNWALL

The Portbyan Hotel ~ 3 Star

The Royal York & Faulkner Sidmouth is probably the most unspoilt resort in the country and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful. Quiet and unhurried, Sidmouth has preserved the natural beauty of the countryside with colourful gardens, open spaces, and tree-covered hills.

in Southeast Cornwall, famous for the dayrich history such as the famous Looe Bridge that joins the East and West towns and hidden treasures including beautiful woodland and cobbled streets lined with independent boutiques and delicious restaurants.

11th

SCARBOROUGH

The Bonnington Hotel

The Park Manor Hotel ~ 2 Star

Dublin is a city that’s as intimate as a village and as friendly as an Irish pub. Framed by mountains, centred on a river, and edged by a beautiful bay, the city’s streets and alleys are filled with vibrant art and historic buildings, hip cafes and traditional ‘old man’ pubs, as Dubliners call them.

Scarborough enjoys an unrivalled position as one of Britain’s premier coastal resorts, yet also lies tantalisingly close to North Yorkshire’s rugged National Park. On this holiday, you can enjoy the golden beaches, superb parks and gardens and wide range of leisure amenities reputation.

13th March | 5 Days | £389

MATURE SINGLES – STRATFORDUPON-AVON

ENCHANTING SOMERSET

Crowne Plaza Hotel

The Wessex Hotel ~ 3 Star

Be enchanted, Somerset has lots of surprises waiting to be discovered – stunning beaches, green countryside, woodlands, lakes, and more.

Stratford-upon-Avon introduces you to a market town with more than 800 years of history, containing not only many buildings that survive today and would have been familiar to Shakespeare, but also a thriving community offering a wide variety of leisure and shopping experiences. 14th November | 4 Days |

CORNISH - MISTLETOE AND WINE

BRISTOL CHRISTMAS MARKET

IRONBRIDGE GORGE

The Best Western Plus Angel Hotel From our base in Chippenham, we are ideally placed for visiting two contrasting attractions with something to suit everyone.

Buckatree Hall Hotel ~ 3 Star

Along the upper reaches of the River Severn and the borders between England and Wales, the countryside of Shropshire shelters some of the most beautiful landscapes and unspoilt towns that you can imagine.

CAPITAL CITY CHRISTMAS SHOPPER

Copthorne Tara Hotel

The Blackwell Grange Hotel ~ 4 Star

Enjoy the run-up to the festive period on this weekend in London’s Kensington area. Explore the city, catch a show, or maybe visit the Natural History Museum – just minutes’ walk away. We have left this break as Bed & Breakfast only so you can sample one of the many local restaurants.

The beauty of the Durham Dales offers a nice contrast with stunning Beamish and historic Durham, including the Bowes Museum, home of the famous ‘Silver Swan’. The region has lots to offer no matter what time of year you visit.

21st March | 5 Days | £429

INTERESTED?

ISLE OF WIGHT – TASTE OF

The Haddon Hall Hotel ~ 3 Star

CHRISTMAS - Trouville Hotel

Boasting award-winning beaches, unspoilt and spectacular scenery, and a rich, historical heritage, the Isle of Wight has something for everyone to enjoy. Discover picturesque villages, spectacular cliffs, and sandy beaches. Our base in Sandown, a traditional seaside resort with long stretches of beach and a Victorian pier.

Eastbourne is a town with grace and elegance that has something for everyone – a landscaped, pedestrianised town centre, bordered by a large range of shops, a clean, well-managed beach and seafront renowned promenade.

21st March | 5 Days | £299

OBAN, MULL & IONA

The Rosemundy House Hotel

Royal Hotel ~ 3 Star

Based in the bustling seaside town of Oban, our tour explores the enchanting Inner Hebridean Islands of Mull and ancient Iona. We venture across the ‘Bridge over the Atlantic’ to Seil Island and take in some stunning scenery as we travel along loch-side roads with towering mountains.

Cornwall is on a beautiful peninsula tumbling into the vast Atlantic Ocean, almost completely surrounded by the sea. Cornwall is loved for its dramatic coastlines, captivating fishing harbours, and of course, its pasties and cream teas! 16th

7 h Ma ch | 5 Days | £349

FESTIVE TORQUAY

LLANDUDNO

The Headland Hotel

Tynedale Hotel~ 4 Star

The winter season is full of cheer and magic, even at the seaside! While you might not think that being by the sea when the weather gets a bit wild but there’s still plenty going on, as you can see from our Festive Itinerary.

Llandudno is Wales’s largest resort, uniquely situated between the Great and Little Ormes with two wonderful beaches, the awardwinning North Shore, and the quiet, sand-duned West Shore.

15th March | 5 Days | £429

HEART OF ENGLAND

YORKSHIRE WINTER DELIGHTS

Cedar Court Harrogate

The Abbey Hotel, Great Malvern ~ 4 Star

A lovely sightseeing tour with many things of interest, based in Great Malvern with the beautiful Malvern Hills overlooking the town. We feature some of the best places the area has to offer

A Yorkshire-themed Christmas extravaganza in one of Britain’s happiest places to live! Jingle and mingle in the festive cheer at Harrogate Christmas Fayre and enjoy evening entertainment and Yorkshire-themed dinners of locally sourced delights. 1st December | 5 Days | £499

28th March | 5 Days | £389

and request

a copy of our 2025 brochure. You’ll be surprised at the variations of tours we operate. Visit our website www.ellensmith.co.uk

A BLISSFUL WEEKEND BY THE BRINY IN BROADSTAIRS

By Rebecca Underwood, BA Hons | Travel Journalist

A leisurely stroll along the promenade in Broadstairs, with a gentle breeze fluttering over the briny, and the seagulls squawking overhead, is a rather special experience and with its connections with Charles Dickens there is much to explore in this lovely Kentish coastal town.

Fort House, an imposing building perched high on a cliff overlooking the sands of Viking Bay was once the holiday home of Charles Dickens. The property, which he called his ‘airy nest’, dates back to 1801 and following his death in 1870 the property was renamed Bleak House.

Dickens describes his life and work at Fort House in a letter to a friend:

“This is a little fishing place, intensely quiet, built on a cliff, where on our house stands, the sea rolling and dashing under the windows. Seven miles out are the Goodwin Sands whence floating lights perpetually wink after dark as if they were carrying on intrigues

with the servants. Also there is a big lighthouse called the North Foreland on a hill behind a village, a severe parsonic light which reproves the young and giddy floaters and stares grimly upon the sea. Under the cliff are rare good sands where all the children assemble every morning and throw up impossible fortifications, which the sea throws down again at high water. Old gentlemen and ancient ladies flirt after their own manner in two reading rooms and on a great many scattered seats in the open air. Other older gentlemen look all day through telescopes and never see anything. In a bay window sits, from nine o’ clock to one, a gentleman with rather long hair and no neck cloth, who writes and grins as if he thought he were very funny indeed. His name is Boz*.” (*Boz was Dickens’ original pen name).

Visitors to Bleak House are welcome to visit the Smuggler’s museum in the cellar, which presents a collection of intriguing exhibits recovered from an eighteenth century wreck that was exposed by the shifting sands of Viking Bay in the 1970’s. The top attraction in the house is, of course, Dickens’ study, where he wrote David

Royal Albion Hotel accommodation courtesy Frankie Julian

Royal Albion Hotel Broadstairs

Viking Bay Credit Tourism, Thanet District Council

Copperfield, and I was simply mesmerised. The room displays a wide variety of fascinating exhibits and includes what was once a richly upholstered, but now rather threadbare chair, which was bought by a Mr Edward Wilson at the sale of Charles Dickens’ furniture immediately after his death. It was later sold to a Mr Scrimgeour who bequeathed it to his daughter and in 1959 it was acquired for Bleak House.

For those of us with a penchant for a spot of afternoon tea, visitors are welcome to relax beneath the parasols in the fragrant gardens, weather permitting, or sink into a comfortable seat in the Great Expectations dining room. A veritable feast of delicious, dainty sandwiches, tasty cakes and scrumptious scones with clotted cream and jam are served with aplomb along with piping hot pots of English tea.

After I had succumbed to the temptations I took a brisk walk along to Victoria Parade, the location of the Dickens House Museum, which offers an enthralling insight into the life and times of the master story-teller. Dickens often visited this property, which was then owned by his friend Mary Pearson Strong and he based the character Betsey Trotwood, the aunt of David Copperfield, on her. It is a truly remarkable experience to gaze upon the varied exhibits, which include a rather grand mahogany sideboard and an exquisite writing box that both belonged to Dickens and there is also a selection of his personal letters, hand written and signed.

As I emerged out into the sunshine I walked again along the promenade towards the bandstand where a brass band plays jaunty tunes on a Sunday and local bands perform during the week, and now and again there are Punch and Judy shows entertaining adults and children alike. Next to the bandstand is the very popular ‘Bandstand Kiosk Beyond The Sea’, which entices diners to a selection of well-presented tables and an extensive array of treats including homemade sandwiches, salads, burgers and hot dogs.

Seeking a deep slumber and a hearty breakfast I spotted Shepherd Neame’s Royal Albion Hotel on Albion Road, where Dickens took lodgings in 1839, 1840, 1845, 1849 and 1859 and where he wrote parts of Nicholas Nickleby. This quirky, yet spacious property dates back to 1776 and it is just the ticket for those seeking a high level of comfort and service in an excellent location with panoramic views across Viking Bay.

I opted for a superior sea view room which features a private balcony, contemporary furnishings and an extremely comfortable bed swathed in crisp, white linens.

For a scrumptious evening feast I didn’t need to venture far as the dining rooms on the ground floor present an impressive menu of tempting dishes. I ordered the succulent Whitstable Bay battered haddock and chips accompanied by a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio.

Alas, my visit was coming to an end but I intend to return for the Dickens Festival, when the residents of Broadstairs honour Charles Dickens and it will take place from the 13th to the 15th of June. There are numerous events and visitors are invited to join locals, dressed in their Dickensian costumes, for tea and polite conversation. Guests and their hosts are transported back to a more tranquil time when life was far less hectic and people enjoyed the simple pleasures.

Spectators line the promenade to view the colourful parade of all things Dickensian and I have been reliably informed that there are usually more than a few enthusiastic characters entertaining the audience – and the promenade features a colourful display of beautiful flowers and plants. The Victorian Music Hall is also very popular along with the Victorian country fair, musical entertainment with brass bands, a Victorian bathing party, historical walks, a puppet workshop, exhibitions and a glorious grand gala ball.

Visit Broadstairs for a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era, a very English coastal town with so much to offer.

Victoria Gardens, Broadstairs - Credit Tourism at Thanet District Council

Dickens House Museum Credit Thanet District Council

Established in 2016 we oﬀer fantastic holidays in the UK and across Europe.

With fabulous excursions, quality hotel accommodation, executive coaches and top class tour drivers, a trip with AVA Travel is one to remember!

We also have a huge selection of UK day trips to suit every traveller.

AVA are committed to making the whole process of taking a holiday with us as easy and pain free as possible.

OVER 200 HOLIDAYS AND SHORT BREAKS TO CHOOSE FROM!

VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR CALL OUR FRIENDLY TEAM TO ORDER YOUR FREE

Ava Travel Leyland Ltd

PIERCE BROSNAN

Irish actor and film producer

OVER the last few decades whenever a film’s Casting Director needed a good-looking, romantic main lead many looked no further than Pierce Brosnan.

His eye-catching Irish looks have mellowed over time but, at 72, the Silver Fox he’s become is still just as popular - whether the leading lady is Meryl Streep or Helen Mirren.

And few romantic actors of recent times can claim James Bond in their repertoire while still maintaining the ability to deliver a comic line with ease.

Pierce didn’t have the greatest start in life. Born in Drogheda, County Louth, his father abandoned the family when he was an infant and when he was four years old, his mother moved to London to train as a nurse.

Largely brought up by his grandparents and, on their death, by an aunt and uncle, he followed life in a Catholic family but left Ireland in 1964 to be reunited with his mother and her new husband.

It was his stepfather who took the lad to see a James Bond film for the first time at the age of 11 – little realising that Pierce

would become an international megastar playing the famous secret agent.

After leaving school at 16, young Pierce decided to be an artist and began training in commercial illustration. He was drawn, though, to the theatre and trained for three years at the Drama Centre London.

He began working as an acting assistant stage manager at the York Theatre Royal and made his acting debut in Wait Until Dark. That Irish luck, however, was definitely with him when playwright Tennessee Williams selected him to play McCabe in the British premiere of The Red Devil Battery Sign.

In 1977, Franco Zeffirelli picked him to appear in the play Filumena opposite Joan Plowright and Frank Finlay. His film career continued with brief appearances in films like The Long Good Friday and The Mirror Crack’d, both in 1980. He also made TV appearances in The Professionals, Murphy’s Stroke and Play for Today.

Success in America, however, was much quicker as he became a TV star there with his leading role in popular miniseries The Manions of America. This was followed in 1982 with another role in BBC nine-part miniseries Nancy Astor, which also aired in America.

In fact, Pierce’s portrayal of Robert Gould Shaw II in the series brought him a Golden Globe Award nomination as Best Supporting Actor.

Unsurprisingly, Pierce moved to Southern California in 1982 where he achieved great popularity in the title role of the NBC comedic – detective series Remington Steele.

After this series ended in 1987, he went on to appear in other projects including a Cold War thriller with Michael Caine The Fourth Protocol, miniseries James Clavell’s Noble House and The Lawnmower Man.

In 1993, he played a comedy role in hugely popular comedy film Mrs Doubtfire alongside Robin Williams. This was followed by several TV films including Death Train and Night Watch.

Pierce first met James Bond film producer Albert R Broccoli on the sets of For Your Eyes Only as his first wife Cassandra Harris had a part in it.

Broccoli was very impressed with Pierce, saying “If he can act … he’s my boy”, meaning he’d found someone to inherit the role of James Bond from Roger Moore.

As he was offered the Bond role, the publicity improved Remington Steele’s ratings and this was renewed, contractually requiring Pierce to return to the show. So any chance of being the new 007 would have to wait.

Instead, the producers hired Timothy Dalton for The Living Daylights and Licence to Kill.

Legal problems lasting several years not only resulted in the cancellation of a planned third Dalton Bond film but put the franchise into a hiatus. Dalton eventually decided not to return as Bond and in June, 1994, Pierce Brosnan was finally announced as the fifth actor to play Bond.

He signed a three-film deal with the option of a fourth and GoldenEye proved a major box-office hit. Pierce returned to the role in 1997’s Tomorrow Never Dies, then The World is Not Enough in 1999 and in 2002’s Die Another Day.

Pierce asked to be allowed to work on other projects in between Bond films and as a

result played a variety of roles ranging from a scientist in Tim Burton’s Mars Attacks! to the title role in Grey Owl, documenting the life of the Englishman who became one of Canada’s first conservationists.

In 1996, he formed film production company Irish DreamTime with longtime friend Beau St Clair. Their first production was The Nephew in 1998 and a year later The Thomas Crown Affair, both being critical and box-office successes.

After Die Another Day, there was speculation whether Pierce – by then approaching his 50th birthday – would continue as Bond and in February 2005 he posted on his website that he was finished with the role, making way for Daniel Craig.

A variety of films followed including 2005 movie The Matador, where he played a jaded, neurotic assassin, earning a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor but losing out to Joaquin Phoenix in Walk the Line.

In 2008, he joined Meryl Streep in the film adaptation of ABBA musical Mamma Mia!, playing one of the three men believed to be the father of her daughter Sophia.

Political thriller The Ghost Writer was next, then Remember Me and Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief.

He played in ABBA sequel Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again and in 2021 executive produced and starred in The Misfits.

His latest role is in The Thursday Murder Club, the film of Richard Osman’s bestselling novel, alongside a starry cast including Helen Mirren.

Pierce was devastated when Cassandra Harris, his wife of 11 years, died leaving him with three children. He re-married Keely Shaye Brosnan 10 years later and they have two children together.

Always modest, he never took his charms seriously stating:

“I don’t see myself as Hunk of the Month.”

His enduring fans wouldn’t agree.

and give Opening Times: Monday-Friday 8.30am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 4pm

CARRYING OUT GRANT OF PROBATE YOURSELF CARRIES SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES

You could be forgiven for thinking that once a will has been written there are no other formalities to administer a person’s estate after they’ve passed away. After all, a will expresses who the deceased wanted to benefit from their estate and how much, or what, each beneficiary inherits. It’s a legal document that’s drawn up by a solicitor with an appointed executor – the person (or persons; you can have more than one) who administers the estate of someone who has passed away) – so you might wonder what probate has to do with it?

Well, a will in itself doesn’t grant authority to distribute an estate. It merely tells the executor(s) who gets what. To actually administer the estate – allocate the assets of the deceased person – the executor needs to obtain a grant of probate. This is a legal document which confirms that the executor

has the authority to deal with the deceased person's assets i.e. their money, property, jewellery, cars or any other possessions.

In an effort to save on costs, some executors attempt to carry out probate themselves. While there is a whole host of information

about how to do this on the internet, the process isn’t for the faint hearted and there are definite risks involved which could end up costing far more than instructing a solicitor in the first place.

If this is something an executor insists on doing, here’s a list of the things they need to be sure of before proceeding:

What exactly is in the will?

A silly question you may think, but to ensure the wishes of the will are carried out, the executor needs to clearly understand who is getting what. While this may be obvious, the will may stipulate that a beneficiary receives their inheritance at a specific point in time rather than as soon as probate has been granted. Also, is there a trust in the will? If so, this will have its own set of legal instructions which will need attending to.

Louise E Rance Russell & Russell

Is the will actually valid? You’d be surprised how many people forget to sign it. Not only that, would you be able to tell the difference between a valid and an invalid will?

Responsibility

Being an executor is a responsible job and not one to be taken lightly. It’s vital that the processes and protocols are followed so that the estate is administered correctly, otherwise the executor can become personally accountable for any mistakes. More worryingly, beneficiaries can hold executors liable for things they haven’t done if they cause a loss to the estate through poor administration.

Legal speak

The law is no stranger to mind boggling jargon and for those who are unfamiliar with legal terminology, it can be difficult waters to navigate. Misunderstanding the terms of a will could also lead to being sued by disappointed beneficiaries.

Taxes

As with death, the only other certainty in life is tax. Executors are responsible for paying any tax due to HMRC on behalf of the deceased. Inheritance tax is the obvious one that springs to mind, but there could be other taxes waiting to be paid before the remainder of the estate can be distributed.

The executor may even need to check the deceased person’s historic records of transactions to ensure that they don’t need reporting to HMRC. A final word of caution on this: failing to settle any outstanding debts could render the executor personally liable.

Paperwork

Put simply, there could be a lot. While some organisations will release money below certain limits without a grant of probate, most do need authority.

Getting hold of all the necessary paperwork from the banks, insurance policies, HMRC etc. can be a daunting task. In terms of properties to be transferred to beneficiaries, it’s the executor’s job to make sure the legal title is transferred correctly or, again, they can be sued for loss to a beneficiary.

Seek Advice

Probate is complicated and ignorance of the process is no defence in the eyes of the law. It may appear cheaper to ‘DIY’ but if there’s even the slightest doubt about the capability of obtaining and carrying out the duties associated with a grant of probate, it’s always far wiser to seek legal advice.

At Russell & Russell, there is a team of specially trained probate solicitors who can provide advice and guidance through this complex area of the law. The firm offers a free consultation, so that you can understand what’s required and how to resolve any issues. Call to book an appointment or fill in the contact form on the website and someone will call you back.

www.russellrussell.co.uk

PREPARING FOR WINTER

WHILE we really don’t want to think about the colder, darker months ahead in Winter this Autumn really is the right time to make practical plans.

We all know that, even in a mild Winter, there are going to be cold temperatures and strong winds and our homes have to cope with all the damp conditions this season means.

Alongside increasing fuel costs for the average household, though, is also the fact that professionals are called out far more to emergency repairs on boilers that won’t work and gutters blocked with leaves.

There are, however, simple things to be done early to minimise those problems.

Ensure your BOILER has a thorough annual service and bleed your radiators, checking for cold spots. If you do have any problems with your heating, don’t wait to book a qualified gas engineer because they soon get really busy.

Are your PIPES and WATER TANK properly lagged and insulated? This helps keep water warmer for longer and can reduce heat escaping through piping – as well as cutting energy bills.

LOFTS need insulating to keep your home cosy in the wintry months. This can be a significant cost initially but it will definitely save you more in the long run by keeping the heat inside and the cold air out.

Your ROOF, GUTTERS and DOWNPIPES can become clogged up with leaves and dirt and leaks and water damage result, especially if they ice up during the coldest weather.

Check the roof over and look for cracked tiles, slates that have slipped and blocked guttering. The debris needs removing to prevent overflow and damp.

Then if you spot anything that needs repairing, call in a professional roofer as soon as you can because, again, in Winter they can get very busy.

Still outside, secure loose FENCES, GATES and SHEDS against the possible damage high winds may cause. Rusted hinges need replacing and fence panels need fixing. Check out the fixings on any garden structures and remove anything that you can from the garden, storing it away safely until warmer weather.

Remove moss, leaves and debris from paths and drainage covers to reduce the likelihood of slips, trips and falls in damp or icy conditions.

Look for gaps on external DOORS and WINDOWS which could cause draughts which allow that expensive heat to escape from your property and let the cold air in.

Replace any worn seals, fill gaps with sealant and consider secondary glazing for older windows.

Consider fitting draught excluders on doors and invest in thicker Winter CURTAINS that you can draw across when the evenings close in to make your home much cosier.

If you have glass doors internally, think about getting door curtains -but make sure you throw open all those cosy curtains during the day to let the sun into your home and help with the heating. If you’ve got hard floors in some rooms, use rugs to help with insulation and to give a warmer “feel” to any area in colder weather.

Use timers on your HEATING. Set the heat to come on at a lower temperature around 30 minutes before you get up or come home. This makes your house feel warmer when you need it to and is cheaper than turning it on higher when you need it.

Boilers heat up at a constant speed whether you set your thermostat to 20 deg c or 30 deg c. Leaving it on all day when you’re not in the house is simply paying for heat you don’t need.

It’s important to test your smoke and carbon monoxide ALARMS as we use more heating in Winter and by trying to get rid of draughts as much as we can, we may affect the VENTILATION

As a result, it’s crucial that your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms work properly. Replace batteries if you need to. Check that all the alarms are working and replace any that aren’t.

For ventilation reasons as well , it’s also a good idea to clean and check EXTRACTOR FANS

Keeping air circulating in your home, especially when the windows are shut, is vital. It prevents moisture building up and damp and mould forming but it also increases the air quality inside your home. Poor air quality can cause a range of health problems as well as frequent sore throats and dry eyes.

Check that kitchen and bathroom fans are working efficiently, clean all of them to remove dust and grime build-up and see that all external vents are free from blockages and thoroughly clean.

Invest in throes for your sofa and comfy chairs. As well as feeling warmer, you can pop them over your knees to ensure you’re cosier watching TV!

It’s also worth moving your SOFA in Winter as it absorbs heat if it’s near a radiator. Hot air can circulate more easily if you move it away from radiators.

Keep your curtains and drying clothes away from the radiator, too, to get the most from your heat source. If you have to dry your clothes indoors, use an airing rail so you don’t lose heat but can still get your items dry.

Plan early for Winter and stock up on the items you are bound to need like grit, de-icer and windscreen covers. Buying a couple of torches and a good supply of batteries also makes sense.

A supply of charged power banks and accessible torches can be really helpful during power cuts and outages. Create a small emergency kit and place it somewhere central, like a hallway cupboard, so it can be easily found by everyone when you need it.

Stocking up your FOOD CUPBOARD with tins of soups, meats and vegetables can also prove very useful if bad weather hits and you might struggle to get out to the shops.

Your freezer comes into its own here, so stock up when items like meat and fish are on “special offer” and add frozen fruit and vegs so you’ve always got enough for complete meals.

Embracing the Age of Regeneration

A new chapter of vitality, right here in Bolton

Aging is changing and so are we. At Regenerage, a 44 year old notfor-profit, older peoples’ independent charity, we believe that life after 50 should be full of energy, purpose, and opportunity. That’s why we’re redefining how people think about growing older; shifting the focus from decline to regeneration.

A Healthier, Happier You

Our work supports people aged 55 and over to live longer, healthier lives; physically, mentally, and emotionally. We enable people to live well with memory concerns and dementia, reduce loneliness and isolation, stay active and provide a range of wider support designed to promote positive and healthy ageing. This isn’t about anti-aging; it’s about pro-living.

We believe age brings wisdom, and that our later years can be some of the most rewarding. “It’s not about adding years to your life, it’s about adding life to your years.” ….Suzanne Carr, CEO Regenerage

Rooted in Community

Regenerage is proud to have a base in Horwich, Bolton. Situated on the Middlebrook Retail Park, our flagship charity superstore offers 11,000 sq ft of fabulous pre-loved and sustainable charity shopping. Our donated items include furniture, ladies, gents and children’s clothes (including designer and occasional wear), a section dedicated to bridal and prom, household, bric-a brac, new white goods, books, DVD’s and records plus everything in between.

Shop With Purpose & Support the Cause

Looking for a simple way to get involved? Visit our flagship charity superstore at Middlebrook Retail Park in Horwich, where every purchase helps the charity to continue its mission of working with and for older people, enriching their lives and supporting them to live well and independently. Address: Middlebrook Retail & Leisure Park, 63 The Linkway, Horwich, BL6 6JA

Opening Times

Monday 10.00 - 18.00 Tuesday 10.00 - 18.00 Wednesday 10.0018.00

Thursday 10.00 - 18.00 Friday10.00 - 18.00 Saturday 9.00 - 18.00 Sunday 10.30 - 16:30

Discover quality pre-loved goods while helping older people to thrive, living vibrant and fulfilled lives.

Why Not Become a Regenerage Retail Volunteer

Our Middlebrook superstore needs more volunteers! Learn how to create eye-catching displays, sort through pre-loved items and prepare stock for sale or serve customers on the till. There are roles for everyone, supporting a team of creative staff. Learn new skills and make new friends whilst helping improve the quality of life of older people in our communities. Tap on the QR code to complete your Expression of interest to volunteer with us. Our store is more than just a shop, it’s a space for connection, community, and real change.

Support local. Age well. Regenerate together.

A VILLAGE WHERE EVERYONE

An ‘Outstanding’ rated care village, Belong Atherton is a welcoming community, where older people, however frail, are encouraged to live life to the fullest. Our colleagues are exceptionally dedicated to ensuring the best possible experiences and outcomes for everyone who lives with us.

Designed around Belong’s award-winning household model, our village is both stylish and homely. Facilities such as a bistro,

specialist gym and hair salon o er a range of opportunities to enjoy an active lifestyle in a safe environment.

As a not-for-proﬁt provider, Belong invests in its people and settings to ensure the highest standards of nursing and dementia care, with a range of services to support people as their needs change, and everything geared towards promoting a sense of belonging to a vibrant, inclusive community.

MOUTH-BODY CONNECTION

Dental specialists Renovo reveal that oral health is not just connected to your body health – it is your body health

When you think about inflammation, you might imagine sore joints or aching muscles. But what if the real source was hiding in your mouth – quietly fuelling disease throughout your body?

Revolutionising dentistry, leading private practice Renovo has always been at the forefront of the industry. They reveal that your mouth could be the hidden source of inflammation and is the key to total overall health.

Here’s what most people don’t realise:

• 90 per cent of people have gum disease, often without obvious symptoms.

• Oral bacteria can trigger up to 50 per cent

of heart attacks and strokes.

• Gum disease makes you 70 per cent more likely to develop Alzheimer’s.

• 95 per cent of diabetics also suffer from gum disease.

• Even cancer, infertility, autoimmune diseases and high blood pressure have been linked to oral bacteria and chronic inflammation.

Dr Usman Riaz, who head up the Renovo team, explains: “Inflammation is at the root of almost every major disease and your mouth is one of the most overlooked sources.”

WE’RE NOT JUST FIXING TEETH. WE’RE SUPPORTING YOUR WHOLE BODY HEALTH

THE SCIENCE: FROM MOUTH TO BODY

Research shows that porphyromonas gingivalis, the bacteria behind gum disease, has been found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. In animal studies, these bacteria caused:

• Brain inflammation

• Neuron damage

• Alzheimer’s-like symptoms When scientists blocked these bacterial

toxins, inflammation reduced and neurons began to heal. But the mouth doesn’t just connect to your heart and brain, it connects to – and directly shapes – your entire body health.

“Every swallow of saliva carries bacteria from your mouth throughout your system,” says Dr Riaz. “Your oral microbiome influences your immune system, metabolic health and inflammation pathways. If your mouth harbours harmful bacteria, they disrupt immune balance and fuel chronic inflammation.”

WHY THIS MATTERS

When your gums are inflamed, bacteria and toxins enter your bloodstream every day. This causes chronic low-grade inflammation.

“It’s like having a leaking toxic tap in your mouth, fuelling inflammation throughout your body 24/7,” adds Dr Riaz. “If you want to heal your body, you must start with your mouth. Oral health is body health.”

RENOVO DENTAL: BEYOND TRADITIONAL DENTISTRY

At Renovo Dental, they don’t guess – they test. Using advanced non-invasive saliva testing, the team identifies specific bacterial burdens causing hidden inflammation, with a focus on restoring full body health through oral health optimisation.

Dr Riaz says: “We focus on uncovering the root causes of disease and many of those causes begin in the mouth, impacting the entire body and immune system.”

THE SILENT THREAT OF OUTDATED DENTAL WORK

Beyond gum disease, old dental restorations can silently fuel inflammation. Fillings, crowns and implants degrade over time, leaking metals and toxins into gums and bone, triggering immune reactions and systemic inflammation.

REVISION DENTISTRY: HEALING THE MOUTH TO HEAL THE BODY

Dr Riaz specialises in revision dentistry, removing old, toxic restorations and replacing them with biocompatible materials that protect immune health, reduce inflammation and support overall body integrity.

“We’re not just fixing teeth. We’re supporting your whole body health,” he says. “Your mouth is the gateway to your entire

body health. Stop treating symptoms –start fixing the root causes. Your health deserves that.”

YOUR MOUTH IS THE GATEWAY TO YOUR ENTIRE BODY HEALTH. STOP TREATING SYMPTOMS –START FIXING THE ROOT CAUSES. YOUR HEALTH DESERVES THAT

WHY THIS MATTERS

• Oral health = body health = systemic health

• Oral bacteria = body inflammation

• Gum inflammation = chronic body inflammation

• Healthy mouth = healthier heart, brain, immune system and body

Renovo is one of the very few practices in the UK to introduce biomimetic techniques and materials. Fractured or damaged teeth can be restored by using biomimetic materials to build them up – the materials and techniques ensure the restorative work can last for decades.

“This is micro-invasive dentistry that preserves as much of the tooth structure as possible by using scientifically developed, bio-compatible, metal-free materials,” says Dr Riaz. “These latest advances in dental technology have changed the way we view restorative dentistry.”

For nervous patients the biomimetic approach will revolutionise the way they view a visit to their dental practice. For the generation that are now experiencing failing teeth and receding gums, where in the past removal of teeth was the only answer, bonding technology and new bio-materials along with gum restoration, has given damaged teeth a new lease of life.

By adopting these latest biomimetic philosophies and having all the specialist techniques and materials available makes Renovo pioneers in their approach to dentistry. Sustaining the longevity of teeth is the primary aim of Dr Usman Riaz and his specialist in-house team at Renovo Dental.

“In very few visits patients can be transformed and because of the unique technology available to us, they leave with a bespoke smile that has longevity.

“It really is transformative dentistry. Your mouth is the gateway to your entire body health. Stop treating symptoms – start fixing the root causes. Your health deserves that.’’ n

Renovo Dental

Pendle House Clitheroe Road Chatburn BB7 4JY 01200 441000 hello@renovodental.co.uk renovodental.co.uk

@renovodental

STEVE HOWARTH’S TEST DRIVE

KIA EV3 GT-LINE

Here at 50 Plus magazine we like to bring you the very latest models on test, so I was delighted when we got our hands on the Kia EV3.

The South Korean brand’s smallest electric car, the Kia EV3 sits below the Niro EV, the Kia EV6 and the seven-seat Kia EV9, with which the Kia EV3 shares more than a passing resemblance inside and out.

Launched at the end of last year they are becoming a popular sight on our local roads especially since the Kia EV3 won the ‘World Car of the Year award’ in April 2025.

Electric cars have really come of age in the last couple of years thanks to technology which means the Kia EV3 can do up to 375 miles on a full charge depending on the model.

Thanks to those lovely people at Bolton Kia our test car was the mid-range FWD 201bhp model in ‘GT-Line’ spec costing £40,030 including premium paint, priced at £625.00. Now that is not bad for an EV with this level of spec, range, and performance (0 to 62 in 7.5 seconds).

The Kia EV3 starts with the ‘Air SR’ model at £33,005 up to £43,905 for the ‘GT-Line S’ extended range version.

Entry levels ‘Air,’ standard kit includes auto power flush door handles, 17” alloy wheels and body coloured door mirrors. All models have heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, automatic

LED headlights, automatic air conditioning, keyless entry, push start/stop, and adaptive cruise control.

There are two battery options to decide between for the ‘Air’ model including the Standard Range (Air SR), which has a capacity of 55kWh and the Long Range 78kWh. The ‘Air SR’ can do up to 270 miles on a single charge while the Long Range ‘Air’, can manage up to 375 miles.

‘GT-Line’ specification adds those larger 19” alloy wheels, sportier styling, wireless phone-charging, rear privacy glass and adjustable lumbar support for the driver.

Range-topping ‘GT-Line S’ brings an upgraded eight-speaker Harman Kardon stereo, a customisable head-up display, electrically adjustable front seats with a heating and ventilating function, heated outer rear seats and power tailgate.

Taking inspiration from the Kia EV9 means there’s a 12.3in digital display behind the steering wheel, a 5.3in climate-control panel and a 12.3in infotainment touchscreen. On the main touchscreen, the graphics are sharp, and the system responds quickly with plenty of features including wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring.

There’s an appealing mix of materials throughout - nothing cheap or flimsy - plus GT-Line versions have fabric on the dashboard and doors for an even more luxurious feel.

There’s plenty of head and leg room all-round the Kia EV3, so you sit high up for a small electric SUV standards and parking is no problem as every model Kia EV3 comes with front and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera. Going for top-spec ‘GT-Line S’ trim adds a 360-degree camera as well as blind-spot monitoring and parking collision avoidance. The Kia EV3 has 460 litres of boot space and even a small frunk. Refinement is impressive with little road and wind noise and no audible electric motor whine.

So, the Kia EV3 has an impressive range, a comfortable and quiet ride, competitive entry price and plenty of standard kit so is an excellent choice if you are in the market for a small electric SUV.

For more information regarding the Kia EV3 or the Kia range then please contact Bolton Kia – Europe’s No.1 Kia Dealer, based on the Middlebrook Retail Park just off the M61 Junction 6, or head to their website: www.kia.co.uk/bolton

For all the latest car tests see the motoring section of our website at www.50plusmagazine.co.uk/motors/

The Kia EV3.

Contact our dedicated Business and Fleet team at Bolton Kia - Europe’s No.1 Kia Dealer. fleet@boltonkia.co.uk or 01204 664800.

Range figures are determined according to the standardised EU measurement procedure (WLTP) for the model shown: Combined mpg not applicable for the Kia EV3 ‘GT-Line

Bolton Kia

Life after retirement: Adventures around the world and the joy of coming home

Retirement used to be thought of as a time to slow down, but not anymore. Today’s retirees are globe trotters, adventurers, and social butterflies, embracing their freedom and enjoying life to the fullest.

Across Adlington Retirement Living communities, homeowners are living proof that life doesn’t stop when work does. In fact, for many, it’s just beginning.

A home that makes holidays easy

Homeowners Angela and Tim, appreciate the practical benefits of retirement living when travelling.

“When we go on holiday, it’s so nice just to pack our things and shut the door, without worrying about anything. The security is great, the team are always here, and we know everything is safe when we’re away.”

This sentiment is echoed by homeowners, Margaret and John. “We love travelling, and the ability to lock up and leave our apartment is a real benefit. We can just go. The community here is wonderful.”

Forging friendships through travel

Margaret and Keith, Adlington homeowners at The Spindles in Menston, met Roy and Rita on a Caribbean cruise. “We clicked immediately,” Margaret recalls.

Through Roy and Rita, the couple also met Bob and Ann, with whom they embarked on adventurous flotilla holidays in Croatia and Greece.

Now, all three couples live at Adlington Retirement Living communities. Their shared history continues to enrich their

present. “It’s lovely to still see each other,” Margaret says. “We’ve visited them at The Chimes in Cheadle and The Folds in Romiley, and they’ve visited us here at The Spindles. It’s like a holiday reunion, but in everyday life.”

Finding community again

For Adlington homeowner, Frank, adventure was always part of travel. Once their children were grown, he and his wife Janet began exploring the world together.

Their first big trip in 1985 took them to India and Nepal. “It was amazing. No mobile phones, no internet - just a real adventure,” he recalls. They even encountered Sir Edmund Hillary at the Pushkar camel fair.

They returned multiple times to Nepal and India, and also visited Bhutan, Burma, Vietnam, Cambodia, Australia, and New Zealand trekking through Langtang, Annapurna, and Everest. Sadly in 2022, Janet passed away. Frank shares: “It took a while to adjust to the fact that I was a widower, I felt completely isolated. What I needed was a community.”

Frank found that community at Brookfields House in Newcastleunder-Lyme. “Once I moved in, I knew I’d made the right decision. I settled immediately and have made new friends.” Frank has since reignited his passion for travel, returning to both India and Nepal.

Retirement, redefined

Adlington homeowners are embracing retirement like never before - enjoying the freedom to travel, the security of a safe home, and the joy of a vibrant community. Whether trekking the Himalayas or simply sharing lunch with neighbours, they’re redefining what life after work can look like.

Come and see for yourself

Why not get a real feel for the lifestyle? Get in touch to arrange a private tour by calling 01524 917888 or visit adlington.co.uk/50L to find out more.

There’s

As the colours of autumn unfold, now is the perfect time to tend to your garden.

At Summerseat Garden Centre, you’ll find everything you need to ready your outdoor space — from Autumn lawn care, garden rakes to a wide collection of bulbs.

Whether you’re refreshing your borders or planning ahead for next year’s blooms, our friendly gardening experts are here to help with advice and inspiration.

01204 883048

MONDAY TO SUNDAY 9AM - 5PM

TEND IT LIKE BECKHAM

Gardening experts share top tips on how to grow your own at home

Following recent glimpses into footballing legend, David Beckham’s garden-to-table lifestyle, the UK has seen a surge of interest in growing your own veg at home, with searches for ‘grow your own vegetables kit’ increasing by 250% in the past month.

In a recent social media video, Beckham can be seen proudly showing off his homegrown produce to fans as he handles his garden-grown bulbs of garlic, onions and even a misshapen carrot to wife Victoria Beckham.

As Brits look to bring a slice of self-sufficiency to their back gardens, patios and allotments, horticultural experts are sharing their tips on how to grow the best classic veg at home and all the tools you might find useful to really ‘tend it like Beckham’.

Growing your own vegetables is more than just a trend, it’s a rewarding way to reconnect with nature, reduce your food miles and enjoy truly fresh flavour straight from your garden. With the right know-how, even beginners can enjoy a thriving harvest at home.

As we move into late summer, there are still plenty of crops you can sow now and enjoy before winter hits. You don’t need a huge plot either, many of these veggies will thrive in raised beds, grow

bags or even deep containers. Here are top three crops to plant now and enjoy later:

Kale

Kale is one of the hardiest crops you can grow, tolerating cooler weather and actually tasting sweeter after a light frost. Packed with nutrients, it’s a perfect crop to take you from Autumn into Winter.

Begin sowing now through early September in well-prepared beds or large pots. Keep the soil moist and free of weeds. When the young plant blooms add in a natural deterrent to protect the leaves from slugs. Once established, kale is very low maintenance, and you can begin picking outer leaves around 8-10 weeks from sowing.

Salad Onions

Quick to grow and full of flavour, salad onions are ideal for anyone short on space or time. They’re a brilliant crop for containers, windowsills or small beds.

Sow thinly in rows and keep the soil moist. Avoid overcrowding by thinning seedlings early. Begin sowing from now until midSeptember, these little onions are ready to pull in as little as 8–10 weeks. Harvest when stems are about pencil thickness for the best crunch and flavour.

Swiss Chard

Swiss chard is a vibrant, versatile veg that grows quickly and keeps producing for months. With its rainbow-coloured stems and leafy greens, it looks as good as it tastes.

Sow from now into early September for an Autumn crop. Chard enjoys full sun or partial shade. Water regularly and remove any damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy. Begin harvesting baby leaves after about 4–6 weeks. For larger leaves and stems, wait

8–10 weeks. Pick outer leaves first, and the plant will keep producing into late autumn.

Onto equipment!

Greenhouses

Greenhouses are a great way to grow your own produce at home, offering a controlled environment that shields plants from weather and pests. They trap heat and maintain humidity, extending the growing season and enabling year-round cultivation.

With easy control over soil, water, and light, greenhouses help produce healthier plants and higher yields, making them ideal for gardeners of all levels and turning your backyard into a productive and sustainable food source.

Raised beds, hanging baskets and plant pots are also great for growing your own produce, if you’re working with a smaller space like a patio or a balcony.

Whether you’re filling patio pots or revamping your veggie beds, now’s the time to give grow-your-own a go.

Grab everything you need at your local Garden Centre and start growing like Beckham, no football skills required!

PLANNING AHEAD

WE all try to enjoy our gardens until the very last days of Summer but planning ahead is as important as planting ahead when it comes to making the most of gardens every year.

And, as the Summer winds to a close, it’s not only a good time to continue getting the most from your little piece of rural England but also to consider how you can improve your garden to enjoy all over again in 2026.

You might want to call in an expert to help with a garden design or pop into your local garden centre for advice. Much, of course, depends on the type of garden you have in the first place.

City gardens have to tick all the boxes – providing an outdoor space for planting, relaxation, play and entertaining. But you may have only a small area for this so most urban gardens have to be functional spaces or plant-filled havens to help escape city life. The Royal Horticultural Society recommends minimal designs and repeated patterns for maximum effect.

Wildlife-friendly gardens feature plants and structures that attract native wildlife like birds, beneficial insects and small mammals. Log piles, hedgehog boxes and bee hotels are among the ideas to help accomplish this.

Mediterranean gardens take their inspiration from the shrubby vegetation of the hot, dry climates of the south of France, Italy and Spain. Here, gravel is often used between areas of drought-tolerant plants like lavender, olive trees, rosemary and vines.

Contemporary gardens feature clean lines and clever use of space without fussy detail or clutter. Stone, slate and wood are ideal here, along with clipped hedges, specimen trees and simple blocks of planting. Think minimalist.

Formal gardens offer a balanced design symmetry and a clear floor plan, and cottage gardens need abundant planting that spills over onto narrow pathways to provide masses of colour and scented flowers.

Containers can add seasonal colour to any type of garden. Use them for shrubs, bulbs or annuals or topiary. Many pots are also ideal for growing fruit and vegetables, especially for beginners in this practical field. A cluster of colourful pots can brighten up a patio.

Garden centres are great places to look for good-value pots and other types of containers – along with giving you useful gardening advice generally – but using old sinks, chimney pots or even big, old saucepans can offer a quirky, personalised look to your garden.

A visit to any sales of garden furniture will also help you plan ahead for your own Great Outdoors next year. There are all types of garden furniture available, from wrought iron tables and chairs to hardy raffia couches and loungers, wooden benches and more modern shapes to suit your own style. Fortunately, browsing through garden catalogues is pleasing at any time of the year but particularly in the Winter when thoughts of getting out in the garden once more cheer us up!

Place a bench at the end of your garden to help “draw” you into your outdoor space, and consider having decking in your garden. A well-planned decking area offers that lovely spot to sit and eat, entertain guests or just regularly enjoy the fresh air with family and friends.

Tiered decking with railings around it, for example, provides a fascinating central feature for any reasonable-sized garden. And consider painting your decking in vibrant colours if you feel your garden needs a quick brightener.

An area of grassed lawn is still a very pleasing sight for many of us and even mowing – thanks to the latest light and effective lawnmowers – isn’t a major chore or too difficult a price to pay. However, sometimes as we get older, trying to regularly mow a large or difficult to access area becomes just too much so it could be worth thinking about alternatives.

Artificial grass has come a very long way from the rather unattractive carpet-like product it once was. Today’s artificial lawns are not only beautiful and very natural-looking but also feel great to the touch and are very hardwearing. They can be both childrenproof and pet-friendly so it’s definitely worth an enquiry. Check out someone else’s garden where they have had artificial grass if you can and you could be pleasantly surprised.

If you’ve got a large garden, would a Summer house, a garden studio or a traditional shed or a log cabin enhance your space and lifestyle? Today’s models are often much more sophisticated than the originals, although many do prefer a traditional approach.

Some have their own heating system and certainly can add a valuable extra “room” to your home where you can work, eat or just enjoy some peace and quiet. Garden studios have become a popular choice for many people working from home now, offering a distinct “office” all year round and allowing them to separate working hours from home-life.

If you have the space – and the budget – how about your own swimming pool? They come in all shapes and sizes to allow you to exercise in the heated waters anytime you want to, or just to chill and swim casually. They’re always popular with children and on the hottest days of our British Summers they’re an ideal place to cool off and really enhance that time in your garden.

Maybe you have always wanted a hot tub, instead, to simply sit in that pleasant place in your own home and let those aching muscles be gently massaged by the bubbling water. Hot tubs have never been more popular – or affordable – and are popular with many for socialising with friends and family. They don’t take up much space, are easy to maintain, and if you’re worried about the weather you could invest in either a proper “house” for your tub or opt for a canopy to allow you to remain enjoying this delightful treat whatever the weather.

Keen gardeners love greenhouses and, while the concept has not changed much over the years, the safety and styles have. Chris White from Hartley Botanica which created the original aluminium-framed greenhouse in the 1950s, says that safety and styles are very different today. “There is a definite trend towards having a greenhouse and towards growing your own fruit and vegetables,” he explained. “In fact, the only true organic foods offering self-sufficiency are the ones you grow yourself, usually in your greenhouse.”

Recycling and reuse for a good cause

Life brings many changes, new chapters, new challenges, and often, a renewed sense of purpose. One small but powerful way to make a difference is right on the doorstep: recycling or reusing what we no longer need.

Did you know every year the average person in England produces six times their body weight in rubbish? Yet less than half (44%) of this waste is recycled, according to the latest figures from the UK Government. There’s so much more we can do, and it starts with simple, everyday choices.

For many of us, sorting glass, plastic, and paper happens when we put out our bins. We can also donate our unwanted goods to charity. But what about the other items we don’t want to go to landfill?

Homelessness charity Emmaus Bolton came up with a solution. In 2021, it opened an on-site recycling centre, in addition to the place donated goods go for reuse in the charity’s shops off Fletcher Street. The two-story building is testimony to recycling. It was repurposed out of two shipping containers itself!

Contestant of TV’s Great British Sewing Bee at the time, Damien Wilton, opened the Recycling Centre, donating a dress he made by reusing denim clothing. Visitors can see this in another Emmaus Bolton initiative – its Scrap Store.

Scrap Stores are organisations that take re-usable, safe, clean waste products and redistribute them to the wider community and Emmaus Bolton’s is no exception. As well as fabric, you can find a wide range of arts and crafts supplies for papercraft, scrapbooking, painting, jewellery-making as well as crochet, knitting and sewing.

Damien said: “I was happy donating the denim dress to Emmaus Bolton that I made during Recycling Week of the show. I want the items I made on the Sewing Bee to be

used rather than just sitting in a box in my loft.

“What Emmaus Bolton does is great because volunteers at the Recycling Centre are reusing old clothes people don’t want any more to sell on as fabric. I have got a few items of material, buttons and thread from the Scrap Store to show that you can make something good from recycled material!”

All income raised by the Scrap Store at Emmaus Bolton helps fund the charity’s home and support for people with experience of homelessness.

People supported by the charity process donations in the Recycling Centre and help visitors find what they are looking for at the Scrap Store.

Keve said: “At Emmaus Bolton, the impact is visible every day. People donate unwanted items, which we repair and sell, turning waste into resources. But the social impact goes further: by accommodating companions [the name given to people supported by the charity], Emmaus helps the council address homelessness.”

So next time you look around your home for items you no longer need consider donating them to Emmaus Bolton. What can’t be reused, could be recycled by the charity.You’ll be giving them a new lease of life and supporting people who really need it.

With busy lives, it can be hard to find time to volunteer. However, the benefits of volunteering can be enormous. Volunteering can help you meet new people, learn new skills and even feel happier and healthier. If you are looking to get back into work, volunteering can be a great way to build your CV. Give us a call to hear about the volunteering opportunities we have at Emmaus Bolton.

CHINESE MADE EASY

Dive into Chinese cooking with these delicious, authentic and easy-to-use recipes from Kwoklyn Wan

CARAMELIZED BRAISED PORK BELLY

A tantalizing dish featuring succulent cubes of pork belly infused with rich sweet and savoury flavours.Tender, juicy and utterly delicious!

Serves 4

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 1 hour

2 tbsp vegetable oil

500g (1lb 2oz) pork belly, skin removed and cut into 3cm (1¼in) cubes

2 tbsp sugar

1½ tbsp minced garlic

5 spring onions (scallions), finely chopped (greens and whites separated)

1 small onion, finely diced

2 tbsp fish sauce

2 tbsp oyster sauce

½ tbsp dark soy sauce

1 tsp onion powder

¼ tsp white pepper

METHOD

Place a wok over a medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of the oil, followed by the pork belly and brown on all sides. Once the pork belly is browned, pour over boiling water until covered and bring to the boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes. Remove the wok from the heat and drain the pork. Place a clean wok over a medium heat, then add the remaining oil along with the sugar but do not stir.

Once the sugar has begun to brown and darken, add the garlic, spring onion whites and onion, cook for a few seconds and then

add 350ml (1½ cups) of water and the remaining ingredients, except the spring onion greens.

Add the pork belly, ensure all the ingredients are well combined, then reduce the heat to a simmer, cover and cook for a further 20 minutes.

Remove the lid and, if the sauce is still quite thin, continue to cook until it begins to thicken. Finally, transfer to a serving plate and top with the spring onion greens to serve.

GOLDEN CHICKEN AND SWEETCORN DUMPLINGS

These plump little dumplings are filled with tender chicken, sweetcorn and aromatic seasonings, then pan-fried to gain their sticky bottoms and served with a fragrant sesame-infused sauce. Perfect as a starter or a movie night snack.

Serves 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 10 minutes

20 round dumpling wrappers

2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the filling

450g (1lb) minced (ground) chicken

3 spring onions (scallions), finely chopped

90g (½ cup) sweetcorn

1 tbsp minced garlic

½ tbsp minced ginger

½ tbsp sesame oil

2 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch)

½ tsp salt

Pinch of white pepper

2 tsp chicken powder

For the sauce

2 tsp cornflour (cornstarch)

1 tbsp oyster sauce

2 tsp light soy sauce

3 tbsp water

1 tsp sesame oil

½ tbsp vegetable oil

METHOD

Combine all the filling ingredients, then using a teaspoon, place a spoonful of filling in the centre of each dumpling wrapper. Dab a little bit of water on the top edge of the wrapper and then bring top and bottom together and pinch to seal while squeezing out any excess air. Repeat until all the filling has been used.

In a bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients and then set to one side.

Heat a frying pan (skillet) or wok over a medium heat, add the oil and place your dumplings into the oil (bottom-side down). Fry the dumplings until the bottoms have turned a golden brown,

then add half a cup of water to the pan and cover with a lid and cook for 5 minutes until the water has evaporated, steaming the dumplings.

Finally add the sauce mixture to the pan and cook until the sauce has evaporated, leaving the dumplings with sticky bottoms.

Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy with your favourite dipping sauce.

GRIDDLED SOY GINGER CHILLI RIBS

These succulent pork ribs are marinated in a tantalizing mixture of Chinese rice beer, soy sauce, miso paste and aromatic spices. After a tenderizing steam bath, they hit the griddle for a sizzling finish, resulting in a dish that’s both tender and sticky with a gentle chilli kick.

METHOD

Begin by placing the ribs in a large bowl along with the salt, rice vinegar and enough water to cover them. Give the ribs a good wash and allow them to sit for 20 minutes in the water. This process will not only tenderize the meat but also remove any impurities.

After 20 minutes, drain, then rinse and drain again. In another bowl, mix all the marinade ingredients together well, then separate one third of the marinade and set to one side. Add the rinsed and dried ribs to the larger bowl of marinade and marinate for a further 20 minutes.

Serves 2

Preparation time: 10 minutes, plus 40 minutes marinating and tenderizing

Cooking time: 50 minutes

600g (1lb 5oz) pork ribs

1 tsp salt

2 tbsp rice vinegar

3 tbsp vegetable oil

For the marinade

100ml (scant ½ cup) Chinese rice beer

100ml (scant ½ cup) light soy sauce

1 tbsp chilli powder of your choice

2 tbsp miso paste

1 tbsp sesame oil

2 tbsp honey

2 tbsp garlic paste

1 tbsp ginger paste

Place the marinated ribs in a steamer basket and steam for 30 minutes until tender. Remove from the steamer and allow to cool.

Place a griddle pan over a medium-high heat, add the oil to the ribs and massage into the meat. Place the ribs on the hot griddle and baste with the reserved marinade – continue this process every couple of minutes. Once the ribs have a thick, sticky glaze and are heated all the way through, they are ready to serve.

Serves 4

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Groundnut oil for deep-frying

260g (2 cups) self-raising (self- rising) flour

1⁄2 tsp bicarbonate of soda

360ml (11⁄2 cups) water

4 bananas, peeled and halved

130g (1 cup) plain (all-purpose) flour

To serve

6 tbsp golden syrup

4 scoops vanilla ice cream

BANANA FRITTERS

Gooey bananas covered in a fluffy batter and served with a blob of ice cream and oozing golden syrup.Yum!

We often ate this at the end of ‘staff dinner’ as the head chef had a sweet tooth, and while he was cooking the bananas he’d leave the tin of golden syrup in a bowl of warm water to make it extra runny for drizzling over the top.

METHOD

Heat enough oil in a wok or deep-sided saucepan so you can deep-fry the bananas, to 170°C (340°F).

Sift the self-raising flour into a large bowl, add the bicarbonate of soda and the water and mix to form a smooth batter. Lightly dust the bananas in plain flour, then dip into the batter to coat and carefully drop into the oil.

Deep-fry for around 6–8 minutes, until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain.

Divide between four plates, drizzle over the golden syrup and add a scoop of ice cream to serve.

Serving & Caring for the families of the Northwest for over 100 years

Nominated Funeral Director for Haven Personal Funeral Plans Ltd

Fred Hamer has been serving families of the North West for over 100 years and the company is still family owned today.

We aim to provide a quality and bespoke funeral service, in a caring and dignified manner, whilst respecting all faiths and traditions.

We have an excellent reputation, thanks to our highly qualified and experienced staff, our local knowledge, our exceptional levels of customer service and our long history in the region.

NOW OPEN IN WHITEFIELD

TASTE THE MEDITERRANEAN

Where we blend flavours, culture, and warmth to create an authentic culinary experience.

At Melis Restaurant & Bar, we bring the Mediterranean to you, mixing flavours, culture, and a welcoming atmosphere for a genuine dining adventure. Our menu highlights the diverse and vibrant tastes of Mediterranean cuisine, offering tempting kebabs, grilled steaks, and fresh seafood. You’ll also find a variety of platters. Accompanying these delights are our specially crafted cocktails. Each visit to Melis is a flavourful exploration along the coastal tastes of the Mediterranean—a true feast for the senses.

6 Thatch Leach Lane, Whitefield, Manchester, M45 6BE

Tel: 0161 566 2264 www.melisrestaurant.co.uk

LUNCH MENU

2 Courses £13.95 | 3 Courses £17.95

Available Monday to Thursday | 12pm - 4pm

STARTERS

Soup of the day

Lentil soup or tomato soup served with fresh bread

Deep Fried Halloumi Cheese

Sliced halloumi cheese covered with panko breadcrumbs, deep-fried and served with mango chutney

Homemade Houmous (V)

Chickpeas with sesame seed paste, olive oil, lemon juice and a hint of garlic

Garlic bread

Garlic bread with tomato

Garlic bread with cheese

Sujuk

Turkish spiced beef sausage served with tzatziki

Sigara Böregi (Turkish Cheese Rolls) (V)

Feta cheese and parsley in a crispy flaky dough

Guacamole Bruschetta

Toasted bread topped with fresh avocado guacamole, diced tomatoes, a splash of lime and cilantro. A vibrant, zesty take on classic bruschetta

Classic Bruschetta

Toasted artisan bread topped with fresh Roma tomatoes, basil, garlic, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Simple, authentic Italian delight

Zucchini Fritters (Mucver) (V)

Grated zucchini mixed with herbs, feta cheese, and a hint of dill, lightly fried until crispy. Served with a side of garlic yogurt sauce

Tzatziki (V)

Cool and tangy Greek yoghurt with cucumber and garlic

SAKSUKA (V)

Aubergine, potato, pepper, onions, garlic, olive oil, tomato sauce

Baba Ganoush (V)

Smoky roasted eggplant blended with tahini, garlic, and lemon. Served with warm pita for dipping

Garlic Mushrooms (V)

Mushrooms cooked in garlic butter, white wine and cream

MAIN COURSE

Margarita (V)

Mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce

Chicken Wings

Succulent wings marinated in bold spices, charred to perfection on a charcoal grill. Served with rice and fresh salad

Chicken Skewers

Tender chicken skewers marinated in bold spices, charred to perfection on a charcoal grill. Served with rice and fresh salad

Lamb Skewers

Tender lamb skewers marinated in bold spices, charred to perfection on a charcoal grill. Served with rice and fresh salad

Meatball Skewers

Flavourful meatballs, specially marinated with bold spices, charred to perfection on a charcoal grill. Served with rice and fresh salad

Chicken Meatball Skewers

Juicy chicken meatballs, specially marinated with bold spices, charred to perfection on a charcoal grill. Served with rice and fresh salad

Special Melis Chicken Doner

Thin slices of spit-roasted chicken, lightly spiced to our unique recipe, served with fresh salad, flatbread, and rice

Spaghetti Pomodoro [V]

Spaghetti in tomato sauce and cherry tomatoes

Spaghetti Bolognese

Spaghetti with special recipe minced beef cooked in tomato and garlic sauce

Vegetarian Mousakka (V)

Layers of aubergine, potato, courgette, mushrooms, carrot, pepper, garlic and bechamel sauce topped with cheese and baked in the oven. Served with Greek salad

WRAPS

Chicken Doner Wrap 4.50

Thin slices of spit roasted chicken, lightly spiced to our own tasty recipe, wrapped with salad

Chicken Skewers Wrap 4.95

Specially marinated chicken breast on skewers, chargrilled, wrapped with salad

Meatball Skewers Wrap 4.95

Lean and tender minced meat blended with Mediterranean herbs, wrapped with salad

Chicken Meatball Skewers Wrap 4.95

Minced chicken thigh, blended with Mediterranean herbs, wrapped with salad

Skewered Lamb Wrap 5.95

Succulent cubes of lamb marinated in Mediterranean herbs chargrilled and wrapped with salad

DESSERTS

Homemade Turkish Rice Pudding

Homemade Tiramisu

Coffee soaked sponges, layered with zabaglione cream & finished with cocoa dusting

Profiteroles

Selection of Ice Cream

Vanilla, chocolate, strawberry

Hewlett Court

Hewlett Court was opened by the East Lancashire Masonic Charity [ELMC] in 1979 as Sheltered Accommodation for the Elderly. Hewlett Courts aim is to provide good quality, affordable accommodation with support services tailored to meet individual’s needs.

Hewlett Court supports individuals in an independent, safe and caring environment.

We understand that moving from your home into a communal living setting can be a very difficult and momentous decision, for both the potential individual and their Families. We are here to support that decision to ensure the right conclusion is made for all concerned.

Hewlett Court prides itself on providing a warm, friendly, Family environment.

The Staff are all dedicated to ensuring that each individual have control over their own lives, to encourage them to make their own choices and opportunities to maintain their independence, encouraging them to play an active role in the improvement and development of the services provided. Hewlett Court continually look at ways to improve the amenities and to provide the best service available.

There is a varied menu at Hewlett Court providing three home cooked meals per day, including any special dietary needs.

Hewlett Court Newcombe

INDEPENDENT LIVING

TESTIMONIALS

Hewlett Court in Bloom

We always get lovely compliments about our gardens and grounds which is all down to the hard work, dedication and commitment put in by our Head Groundsman Paul Sellers and his Assistant Alston Hall.

Location Hewlett Court is situated in Holcombe Brook on the north side of Bury near the foot of Holcombe Hill. The Home is close to the local amenities; shops, post office and Doctors Surgery.

We would like to say a big thank you for all the work you do as volunteers!

Mary M – You can go and look around Bury and you won’t find any another facilities like Hewlett Court. The food is excellent and the staff are very obliging. Everyone enjoys all the entertainment and the outings that are free. We can come and go as we like

Julie – I really enjoy it, myself and my Sister have been made to feel welcome and have made lots of friends. I enjoy the baking classes and all the activities.

John – I am very happy at Hewlett Court, I feel safe and well looked after. The staff are very helpful and the food is excellent.

Doreen B - Just fabulous, a great place to be. Nothing is too much trouble. Fantastic staff and a friendly, clean, homely place.

Location:

Hewlett Court is situated in Holcombe Brook on the north side of Bury near the foot of Holcombe Hill. The Home is close to the local amenities; shops, post office and Doctors Surgery.

Nicola Finbow, Head of the Private Client team at Clough & Willis answers your questions on

Lasting Powers of Attorney

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a document which enables you to appoint one or more person you know and trust to act as your attorney(s) to take control of, or assist you with, your financial or personal welfare decisions. This is useful where you are unable to manage your own affairs, whether temporarily or permanently, due to illness, physical impairment or mental incapacity. It allows your Attorneys to make decisions on your behalf, including if in the future you were to lack mental capacity to make decisions for yourself.

There are two types of Lasting Powers of Attorney, one relating to property and financial affairs and the other relating to health and welfare decisions. You cannot combine the two documents. You can choose to put in place one or both documents.

A Lasting Power of Attorney for Health and Welfare gives your attorney the authority to make decisions with regard to life sustaining treatment, daily diet, routine, where you might reside or the decision to accept or decline particular medical treatments. A Lasting Power of Attorney for Health and Welfare can only be used when you lack the mental capacity to make decisions for yourself.

A Lasting Power of Attorney for Property and Affairs allows your Attorneys to decide how your property and financial affairs are managed. The Lasting Power of Attorney will allow your attorneys deal with your finances, pay your bills, make decisions about matters such as opening, closing and managing bank/building society accounts, claiming, receiving and using your benefits, pensions and allowances and even assist in selling your house if required. A Lasting Power of Attorney for Property and Affairs can be used both while you have mental capacity and if you were to lose mental capacity in the future.

Who can I appoint as my attorney(s)?

You can choose members of your family, friends or a professional person such as a solicitor or accountant or indeed a combination of the two. However, professional attorneys will charge for their services. Your attorneys should be people who you trust and who have sufficient skills to make decisions on your behalf.

If you are appointing two or more Attorneys, you can authorise them to act either jointly (meaning they must both act together and cannot act individually); jointly and severally (meaning they can act together or individually) or jointly in some matters and jointly and severally in other matters.

If you appoint your Attorneys to act jointly, and one of the Attorneys dies, becomes bankrupt or becomes mentally incapable, the whole Power of Attorney will be terminated and a new document will need to be put in place. If you appoint your Attorneys to act jointly and severally and one of the Attorneys dies, becomes bankrupt or mentally incapable, the Lasting Power of Attorney will continue to act on their own as long as they are capable of doing so.

Why should I make a Lasting Power of Attorney if I am fit and well?

A Lasting Power of Attorney can only be created if you have sufficient mental capacity

to understand what it is that you are signing and the authority you are granting under it. Each Lasting power of Attorney has be to countersigned by a “Certificate Provider”, who is certifying the document to confirm that you have sufficient capacity and understanding to make the document and also that you are not being put under any pressure to get it signed.

There are only certain people who can qualify to act as a Certificate Provider.

If you do not have sufficient capacity to proceed with the preparation of a Lasting Power of Attorney, someone would have to make an application to the Court of Protection be appointed as a “Deputy”. This

court order would then allow the appointed Deputy to make decisions on your behalf, subject to the terms of the court order and the supervision of the court.

An application to the Court of Protection can be costly and time consuming. Annual supervision and insurance bond costs will also apply for the length of time that the court order is in place.

If you need further information about Lasting Powers of Attorney or any other Private Client matter, contact Nicola for a free, no obligation interview on 0161 7645266.

It’s hard to talk about

Wills...

We all know that talking about death can be hard, but if you don’t take steps to make a Will, there is no guarantee that your wishes will be carried out when you die and you could leave behind a trail of problems for loved ones to negotiate when you’re gone.

Our Private Client Solicitors have years of experience helping people just like you draft and execute wills correctly. Call us now on freephone 0800 083 0815 to arrange a free, initial meeting and for a free quote

Based in Bromley Cross our premises offer a more modern environment both from our clinical and technical needs.

Confidence begins with a beautiful smile ...

Many denture wearers suffer with poor fitting, worn out or artificial looking dentures that cause the wearer to feel a lack of confidence in their dentures. This can present itself when chewing or even by just worrying about the denture dropping during a conversation. All these are issues that Bolton Denture Centre specialise in correcting.

What is a Clinical Dental Technician?

A Clinical Dental Technician (CDT) is a qualified dental technician that has under gone further Education and Training to gain a Diploma in Clinical Dental Technology as Awarded by the Royal Collage of Surgeons (RCS).

At Bolton Denture Centre our clinician is one of the first registered Clinical Dental Technicians in the country, and able to offer a bespoke service of treating the patient AND making the denture in the laboratory.

Over recent years there have been many improvements in both the way we construct dentures and in the materials and denture teeth that we use. One such innovation currently on the dental market is DIGITAL DENTURES.

However as with any new technology it usually gets rushed to market before it is fully developed. We have seen an upturn in enquiries for this technology, but after many meetings with sales reps and looking into the technology behind it we feel the quality and aesthetics are extremally substandard in comparison to a bespoke handmade tradtional denture.

We also feel the fit of digital dentures are not going to be as good as the fit of traditional dentures as the digital impression cannot replicate the compressive action of the denture, therefore leaving in general reduced suction. This is why we have chosen not to offer this service as of yet here at Bolton Denture Centre. You still have to be a clinical dental technician to provide digital dentures.

Your Dentures need Attention

1. When they become loose.

2. When teeth or denture base discolours.

3. When tooth surfaces become flat.

4. When denture base does not fit around natural teeth (in partial dentures).

5. When you develop deep lines around your mouth.

6. When your chin sticks out, and the corners of your lips are constantly wet, developing sores.

7. When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed.

My Dentures have become loose!

This is easily remedied by a procedure know as Re-lining. A new layer of Denture base is added to your existing Denture, improving the fit and restoring confidence.

Bolton Denture Centre can offer all aspects of denture care including;

4 Free Consultations

4 Denture cleaning and polishing service

4 Repair of broken or cracked dentures

4 Relining existing dentures to improve fit

4 New full dentures

4 New partial dentures (following treatment plan from dentist) *

4 Sports mouth guards

* Dentist treatment plan can be arranged.

one of the most basic, biologically uniform expressions of all Smiling is not just a universal means of communicating, it’s also frequent one. More than 30% of us smile more than 20 times a day and 14% of us smile less than 5 times a day.

Should I have a spare set of Dentures made?

host of benefits which include:

Yes, it is very important to have a spare set of dentures for emergencies in case of breakage. Once a new set is made the old set becomes a spare.

Psychologists have found that even if you’re in a bad mood s immunity - smiling makes your body more relaxed and contributes to a go immunity.

What our Customers Say

Jonathan is a very easy person to talk to. He explained everything to me in detail and made me feel very relaxed. I would definitely recommend him.

CONSTRUCTING A GOOD SET OF DENTURES

Constructing a functional and aesthetically pleasing set of dentures is the most difficult task in dentistry. We are not only replacing lost teeth, but also lost tissue matter and bone. In other words, we have to re-create your facial features as they were before the loss of your natural teeth.

Took my 96 year old dad to see Johnathan to sort out his dentures. Johnathan was courteous, helpful and very professional. I would highly recommend his services.

In most cases we do not know what your teeth looked like, what size they were or what position they were in originally. We have a few indications but mostly we have to rely on our visual and artistic judgement.

Cannot praise Jonathan enough absolutely first class. Came in specially Christmas eve to help me out and saved my Christmas from being ruined (meals out etc) used again yesterday and the same great service would highly recommend to anyone.

At the same time we have to use our technical expertise in order to make the denture stable and functional. Denture construction is more art than science.

DENTURES NEED REGULAR SERVICING

Dentures are in constant use almost 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are also in a pretty hostile environment in the mouth, being attacked by strong acid, bacteria, hot, cold and spicy food. Denture material absorbs liquids and food odour.

Really down to earth guy. Dentures are brilliant, I couldn’t have been treated better. Highly recommend their service.

Constructing a Good Set of Dentures

Smiling releases endorphins which reduce stress and change y same effect.

pressure - Reducing stress and smiling can also help lower blood pressu infectious - Not only do others smile when we smile but studies also sugg others when we smile.

Daily cleaning is essential as well as professional ultrasonic cleaning in a dental laboratory at least once a year. Due to

don’t like your smile, do you suffer from loose poorly fitted or broken dentures? Bolton Denture Centre we have been helping denture wearers to get beautiful smiles for

At the same time we have to use our technical expertise in order to make the denture stable and functional. Denture construction is more art than science.

Why not call me to discuss your current situation or arrange an appointment as I am always more than happy to help.

We are extremely excited to welcoming you to our new practice at:

Jonathan Dean LBIDST CDT RCS Eng

Considering a funeral plan?

Take care of your financial end of life planning and more importantly give peace of mind to your loved ones. This article was written by Haven Personal Funeral Plans Ltd.

What is a funeral plan?

A funeral plan allows you to pay for your funeral upfront saving your loved ones from the financial burden of covering the cost themselves. Funeral plans can only be sold by firms authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) or their Appointed Representatives.

You will pay for the funeral at today’s prices, potentially saving the cost of inflation from between when you take the funeral plan out and time of need.

Planning your own funeral can be a difficult and emotional thing to do for most people, nobody wants to think about, let alone have a conversation about the day when they are not here. However it can provide loved ones with all the help and support they will need at a difficult time.

If you have ever had to plan a loved one’s funeral, you will know first hand how distressing and difficult this can be. In order for the funeral director to arrange the funeral they have to ask you a series of questions. You need to make certain decisions which when you are grieving and upset can be an incredibly difficult thing to do, especially if you didn’t know your loved one’s personal preferences. This can make you question if you made the right choice and then there is the financial burden of also having to cover the cost of the funeral.

A funeral plan can be a positive, practical and productive thing to do not only for yourself but very importantly for your loved ones.

What are the benefits and risks of having a funeral plan?

If you are thinking about a funeral plan, it is important that you have all of the information in order for you to decide if a funeral

plan is right for you, it is important to weigh up the benefits and the risks.

Benefits of having a funeral plan:

• They potentially protect you from inflation. You pay for the funeral at today’s price avoiding any future inflation. If funeral costs continue to rise in the future as they have done consistently in previous years, you will not need to pay anymore. Currently in the UK, the cost of a basic funeral is now £4,141.00 which has increased by 4.7% compared to last years price (according to the Sunlife Cost of Dying Report 2024).

• The financial burden is taken away from your loved ones at time of need.

• Your funeral arrangements and personal wishes are taken care of.

• Funeral plans are exempt from Inheritance Tax.

Risks of having a funeral plan:

• A funeral plan only covers items/ services included in the plan, these vary depending on the plan so it is important to check you have included everything. If at point of need items / services need to be added, for example an additional car for relatives, your relative will have to pay for this.

• The funeral plan provider could fail, if this was the case your plan could be refunded in full or be transferred to another provider.

• The Trust in which your money is invested may fail, if this was the case and a return of your monies is not possible you may be entitled to compensation under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).

• In the unlikely event that funeral costs fall in the future, the price paid for your funeral plan would remain the same.

What’s included in a funeral plan?

This can vary depending on the plan provider and the type of funeral plan however most funeral plans include funeral directors’ costs, a coffin, a hearse, a minister, cremation fees, burial fees up to the cost of cremation. It is important when buying a funeral plan that you read and understand exactly what is and is not included in the funeral plan. Funeral plans can be tailored and personalised to suit your individual needs and wishes.

How does a funeral plan with Haven work?

Haven sells funeral plans through a network of family-owned funeral directors who are Appointed Representatives of Haven Personal Funeral Plans. The funeral homes cover East Lancashire, West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester. Funeral plans are sold face

to face by funeral directors who have been specifically trained in funeral plans.

When you take out a Haven Personal Funeral plan, the price you pay includes an administration fee that is kept by the company to cover the day to day running costs. The balance is then transferred into The Haven Funeral Trust where it is invested by an FCA regulated investment manager. The money is held there until needed.

During the lifetime of the funeral plan, you will be contacted every 18 months with a summary of your funeral plan and given the opportunity to change any details of the funeral plan to suit your current needs and wishes. Changes to your funeral plan can be made at any time, you do not need to wait for the 18 month summary. Haven do not charge an admin fee for changes being made to your funeral plan.

When you take the funeral plan out, you will be given the opportunity to appoint a Nominated Representative. A Nominated Representative is someone who will know about your funeral plan so that at time of need, the funeral plan does not go unclaimed. A nominated representative can’t make any changes or cancel your funeral plan.

At time of need, whoever is arranging your funeral simply needs to get in touch either with Haven directly or your nominated funeral director where they will be informed of what happens next. They will then be supported throughout the entire process leading up to during and after the funeral by our team of dedicated caring and professional staff.

Once the funeral has taken place, Haven will pay your nominated funeral director for carrying out your funeral in accordance with your planned wishes. Your loved ones will not be charged any extra for this, these costs will be covered by your funeral plan. If any extras are required at time of need that are not covered by the funeral plan, these will be payable to the funeral director by your loved ones.

Haven is a trading name of Haven Personal Funeral Plans Ltd which is registered in England and Wales No. 03557936

Registered Address: Cedar Lodge, 227 Bury Road, Rawtenstall, Rossendale, BB4 6DJ

Haven Personal Funeral Plans Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority – FRN 962488

What are your PLANS this summer?

Sit back and relax this summer knowing your funeral plan is taken care of.

Plan with us today the Haven way.

Fixed price pre-paid funeral plans offering peace of mind for you and your family.

Haven have helped over 7,000* clients plan for their final farewell in 1998 * represents the total number of funeral plans sold as at May 2025.

25 Nominated funeral directions throughout East Lancashire, West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester.

Give your family peace of mind knowing the financial burden of arranging a funeral has been take care of.

Celebrate your life your way.

OUR FAMILY HELPING YOURS FOR OVER 25 YEARS www.havenfuneralplans.co.uk or call 01706 230285

Haven is a trading name of Haven Personal Plans Ltd which is registered in England and Wales No. 03357936. Registered address Cedar Lodge, 227 Bury Road, Rawtenstall, Rossendale BB4 6DJ. Haven Funeral Plans Ltd is Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority - FRN(962488).