CHRIS WRIGHT DENTURE CLINICS ARE YOUR DENTURES CAUSING YOU TEETHING TROUBLES?
Many denture wearers suffer with poor fitting, worn out or artificial (false) 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 ChrisWright Denture Clinics specialise in correcting.
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. This means that the end result looks more natural than ever before. Why not call for a FREE Consultation to find out more about these new innovations in denture design and manufacture?
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.
Daily cleaning is essential as well as professional ultrasonic cleaning in a dental laboratory at least once a year. Due to constant bone resorption dentures will become loose sooner or later.
Loose dentures will increase damage to the gums and bone structure, and increase the risk of breakage. Have them re-lined as soon as possible to get a good fit. It only takes a day or two.
Have your dentures inspected by a Clinical Dental Technician at least every two years, or more frequently if necessary.
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.
DENTURES ON IMPLANTS
This type of Denture is constructed in conjunction with the Dental Implant Surgeon. This is a very good procedure when the patient has limited control and retention of their Dentures. The finished Dentures ‘click’ into position offering the ultimate in Denture Retention.
SHOULD I HAVE A SPARE SET OF DENTURES MADE?
Yes, it is very important to have a spare set of dentures for emergencies in case of breakage.
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.
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.
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.
WHAT IS A CLINICAL DENTAL TECHNICIAN?
A Clinical Dental Technician (CDT) is a qualified dental technician that has under gone further Education and Training in areas such as Medical Emergencies Cross Infection Control and Oral Pathology (cancers and anomalies) to name just a few sections that make up the
Diploma in Clinical Dental Technology as Awarded by the Royal Collage of Surgeons (RCS).
It is this qualification that allows the clinicians at Chris Wright Denture Clinics to be able to be registered and regulated with the General Dental Council (the official body for protecting the public with regards to dentistry) and carry indemnity insurance. It is this qualification, which means that only Dentists and Clinical Dental Technicians are the only Dental Professionals permitted to supply dentures direct to the public.
A dental technician is not qualified to supply a denture directly to the public. However, despite this being an act of Mal practice many technicians will still practice illegally without informing the patient that they are not qualified. If you are unsure if your denture provider is qualified; ask them
for their GDC registration number, then contact the GDC to see if they are registered not just as a dental technician but as a CDT.
CHRIS WRIGHT DENTURE CLINICS CAN OFFER ALL ASPECTS OF DENTURE CARE INCLUDING;
• Free Consultations
• Denture cleaning and polishing service
• Repair of broken or cracked dentures
• Relining existing dentures to improve fit
• New full dentures
• New partial dentures (following treatment plan from dentist) *
• Sports mouth guards
*Dentist treatment plan can be arranged
DID YOU KNOW?
It is illegal for anyone who is not a GDC registered Dentist or Clinical Dental Technician to make a dental appliance directly to the public. This includes dentures or tooth whitening. Anyone providing these services should be reported to the General Dental Council or Trading Standards as they are practicing dentistry without the appropriate qualifications or indemnity insurance.
In this occasional feature we focus on a prominent local company
SPOTLIGHT ON: Macclesfield Denture Clinic
Enhancing your life and well-being
This year celebrates 17 years of being in business and what a seventeen years it has been.
Chris trained as a technician at Manchester Polytechnic in 1992. He followed a path of continual professional development and subsequently qualified as a clinical dental technician in 2008 with an advanced diploma from George Brown College in Ontario Canada and gained a diploma in CDT from The Royal College of Surgeons in England.
friends. They have been together as a couple for nine years, recently getting married in September 2024 after Chris proposed whilst on a biking holiday crossing America on Route 66. They have three grown up children between them and two cats (Hissy Spitty and Twinkle Toes).
Lynne joined MDC in early 2015. She is a qualified dental nurse with over 20 years experience as both a dental nurse and receptionist. She is now enjoying learning new skills including being a laboratory assistant and being involved in the manufacturing process. Lynne’s daughter Hannah has recently obtained her masters in architecture and is working at an Architects office in Stockport but frequently covers at the practice when needed.
Coincidentally Chris, Lynne and Hannah all share the same birthday.
Macclesfield Denture Clinic was established in the same year. Working independently, Chris is absolutely committed to providing the best possible care for his patients.
Taking referrals from all over Cheshire, Derbyshire and Stoke on Trent. The main clinics being Visage, Diana Dental, Roe St, Buxton Dental, Wish and Bax who Chris believes share in the same values.
Chris met his wife Tracy at the local running club 13 years ago where they became good
IT was good news to hear that the Government is to commission a new study looking into potential “countermeasures” for dazzling LED headlights on vehicles.
On the basis of “thank goodness it’s not just me”, motoring organisations and MPs have spoken out after accidents have been blamed on people being blinded by LED lights.
There have already been calls to ban certain types of headlights on cars because of fears that they are so bright they’re causing accidents.
AA members have told the organisation that LED lights on vehicles are among the factors causing them to be “blinded” while driving.
Worryingly, according to national collisions’ data, dazzling headlights were a contributing factor in 216 incidents in 2023.
Now, after a new question in the House of Commons on the subject, the Secretary of State for Transport accepted there was increased public concern about headlight glare. Independent research was underway and due to be delivered this Summer.
Certainly, driving along country lanes late at night to be met by the glare of bright LED lights coming in the opposite direction could create a potentially dangerous situation.
AA president Edmund King stated: “Our own research shows it is an issue for some drivers with three quarters saying they have been blinded by oncoming headlights.
“Our members tell us that they are feeling the strain of brighter headlights more than ever before, as well as brighter brake and traffic lights. Conversely, they also say brighter lights enhance road safety.
“The problem seems to be LED lights on higher vehicles such as SUVs. The Government-sponsored investigation into the use of LED lights on our roads should help clarify this issue further, as well as provide appropriate measures where needed.”
RAC senior policy officer Rod Dennis said: “Few issues we deal with have triggered quite as much of a reaction among drivers as the brightness of headlights. It’s clear that, for a proportion of the driving public, glare affects them profoundly on the roads at night.
“But while the frustration is evident, the causes of the problem and what can be done about it are much less clear. That’s why the Government-funded project is so important.”
So now all we can do is wait for the outcome of the research and hope it sheds a (muted) light on a worrying situation.
We’re not interested in your opinions – heckle off!
ANYONE who has ever been to a comedy night or major one-man show will know about the irritation of hecklers.
For some reason, they believe that the audience – and the comedian – will be highly entertained by their inane shouts when the reality is that it’s annoying at the least and rude and disrespectful at the most.
Peter Kay is the latest comedian to hit the headlines for taking direct action to deal with hecklers.
The AO Arena in Manchester was the scene with two audience members removed while Peter was performing his Better Late Than Never … Again tour.
When one unofficial “performer” started shouting out one of Kay’s well-known phrases, “garlic bread”, the other responded by chanting “We love you, Peter, we do.”
Kay’s response was “We love, you love” but then stated: “Alright, love, we heard you. Take her out while you’re up there (removing the first heckler) – drag her out.”
Then he is later heard to say: “Go on, Lisa Riley”, referring to the Emmerdale actress.
This incident actually resulted in a bit of a public row, with the heckler going on TV, stating: “I didn’t mean to cause any harm, I was just showing my love …. but he obviously didn’t like it.”
Forced to defend himself on Instagram, the comedian explained that the two hecklers were “disrupting from the very start.
“I did my best to address the situation and made light of it as any comedian would but, unfortunately, their interruptions continued.
“I then tried to ignore them, hoping they’d settle down, but when the disruption persisted into the second half of the show, I asked the audience around them if they were being bothered by the noise.
“They all shouted ‘yes’ and when I asked for a show of hands at least 40 people raised theirs. At that point I had no choice but to take action.”
Sorry but my sympathies are all with the performers on this one. For some reason, audience members sometimes believe that people have come to hear from THEM and insist on shouting out.
But they’re not funny and they’re not wanted.
I really think heckling is a self-fulfilling prophecy and if you do it, prepare for retribution – usually with a great put-down by the comedian.
Now
Mammograms really do save lives
HAVING a mammogram is not something you’d automatically do for fun.
Your breasts are compressed between two metal plates and x-rays taken to reveal any problem areas.
It is routinely offered to all women aged 50 to 70 in the UK every three years and more than two million women are screened each year.
It’s a brilliant tool in diagnosing early problems. It discovered my breast cancer early 20 years ago on a routine appointment. I had surgery, went on a five year drugs’ trial and I’ve been clear ever since.
Even though for me it was a personal life-saver, I do understand why many women refuse to have a mammogram. They are probably frightened about the procedure and unsure what it entails.
So it was absolutely brilliant to see 63 year-old presenter Vanessa Feltz undergoing a mammogram live on TV’s This Morning. vShe held a normal conversation throughout and explained the procedure well.
When asked how it felt, she said: “It feels slightly squashed. But it certainly isn’t hurting at all. I wouldn’t even call it discomfort. I certainly wouldn’t call it pain.”
Around 11,400 women and 85 men die from breast cancer every year - the equivalent to 32 deaths every day. So please don’t miss your mammograms.
Set in an enviable location in Wilmslow, Cheshire, close to handy local amenities, The Sanctuary offers high specification apartments & cottages with exclusive on-site communal facilities.
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EMMA THOMPSON
Over four decades of screen & stage
IT’S very unlikely that British actress Emma Thompson could ever be typecast.
She can put in a sensitive performance as the scorned wife, have audiences crying over her deep emotions as a mother or, equally, laughing out loud at her comedy performances.
On the big screen she’s been prim and proper, completely wanton and very brave. And it’s all down to hugely skilled acting talents and a lack of fear of challenging new roles.
This is not surprising when you realise that her professional actress gene was honed early, at home in London and in a family of actors.
Her father Eric Thompson - a scriptwriter and stage director as well as an actor - was perhaps best remembered as the creator and narrator of children’s TV classic The Magic Roundabout.
Her mother Phyllida Law worked extensively in TV series like Dixon of Dock Green and Rumpole of the Bailey and also appeared in films.
Emma’s sister Sophie is also an actress and has appeared in TV programmes from EastEnders to Coronation Street as well as in films like Four Weddings and a Funeral.
Emma’s wit was cultivated at home in this cheerful and creative family atmosphere. She attended Cambridge University, studying English Literature, and was part of the university’s famous Footlights Club where Monty Python members first met.
She graduated in 1980 and started her entertainment career on BBC radio and touring with comedy shows. Her first big TV break came on the comedy sketch programme Alfresco in 1983, writing and performing alongside Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie.
She worked later on other comedy shows, including with actor Robbie Coltrane.
In 1985, she collaborated with Stephen Fry on his stage adaptation of the play Me and My Girl in London’s West End, in which she had a leading role.
This proved successful with Emma getting good reviews. On the strength of this, she was cast as the lead in BBC TV miniseries
Fortunes of War co-starring actor and director Kenneth Branagh, who became her first husband.
In the late 1980s and ‘90s, she was in a variety of well-received TV and film productions. Her first film role was in the 1989 romantic comedy The Tall Guy and then she and Branagh co-starred in several films including Dead Again in 1991 and Much Ado About Nothing in 1993.
In 1992, she showcased her considerable acting talents on both sides of the Atlantic in the wonderful Merchant-Ivory film Howards End. She won both an Oscar and a BAFTA, heralding her move between art films and the best of Hollywood.
In 1993, she received two Academy Award nominations – for her role as the housekeeper in a grand house in the wonderfully atmospheric The Remains of the Day and as a lawyer in In The Name of the Father.
In 1994, she demonstrated her light touch with comedy in the Arnold Schwarzenegger film Junior.
The next year, Emma - also a very talented screenwriter - wrote the screenplay for Ang Lee’s much-acclaimed version of Sense and Sensibility. In fact, she is the only person to have won Academy Awards for both acting and writing.
In 1998, she put in a much-praised performance as the wife of presidential candidate John Travolta in Primary Colours.
Then, in a real change of character, she starred in the Harry Potter film series as whacky Divination teacher Sybill Trelawney.
“I have a nervous breakdown in the film,” she recalled, “and in one scene I get to stand at the top of the stairs waving an empty sherry bottle which is, of course a typical scene from my daily life, so isn’t much of a stretch!”
In 2003, she joined a star-studded cast for blockbuster Love Actually, with a gently affecting performance as the wronged wife.
Her usually attractive appearance was deliberately marred in 2005 as the scary Nanny McPhee in the film of the same name. In 2012 she was in Men In Black 3.
Emma was cast in Bridget Jones’s Baby in 2016 and starred in Beauty and the Beast the following year. She was promoted to Prime Minister in 2018 for Johnny English Strikes back and was Baroness von Hellman in another very popular film Cruella in 2021.
She is in the latest Bridget Jones blockbuster Mad About the Boy and is in the middle filming Three Bags Full: A Sheep Detective Movie with The Fisherwoman also currently in post-production.
She married British actor Greg Wise in 2003 and the couple have one daughter Gaia and also an adopted son Tindyebwa Agaba.
Emma plainly doesn’t take herself too seriously. She once said: “I am who I am and there is nothing I can do about that.”
As to her work ethic, she stated: “I have periods of intense activity, then stop.
“My ideal is to work hard in the morning until I pick Gaia up from school. Just putting an empty square in my diary seems to make a space in my head, too. You have to be very good at saying no.”
Emma is honest about her acting skills. “Acting simply cannot be about how you look. It would be very difficult to make a film where you have to be beautiful in every shot.
“You have to put so much effort into it; you have to hold your head at particular angles, put the light in a certain way and I don’t like acting like that. I like to act unconscious of how I look.”
She is also very practical. “I’m very lucky I write as well,” she stated. “I don’t see how I could be as effective a mother as I’d like to be if I had to go away and act all the time.
“So I’ve sort of pulled back from acting, which is fine, because I’ve found over the years – and this was a surprise to me – that I can get the same kind of creative satisfaction from writing as I have heretofore gotten out of acting. It’s very encouraging, really.”
Walk this way: a hiking holiday to remember
Silver Travel Advisor’s Kerry Gallagher laces up her hiking boots and takes to the trails in Madeira, one of Europe’s most scenic hiking destinations
I’ve been lucky enough to watch the sun rise in some pretty incredible places. The Taj Mahal in India, Angkor Wat in Cambodia, Uluru in Australia. But perhaps one of the most memorable was at Ponta do Rosto located on the eastern tip of Madeira. With sweeping views across the Atlantic Ocean and coastal cliffs dominating the landscape, this scenic viewpoint delivered one of the most vibrant and colourful skies I have ever seen.
Despite a 5am start to catch this spectacular sunrise, we then set off to hike Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenco, also known as ‘The Dragon’s Tail’. This rugged coastal path follows the narrow stretch of the island which takes you to the furthest point on the east coast that it is possible to hike to. Any effort it took to hike 10km with sleepy heads under the heat of the morning sun was richly rewarded with stunning views of the turquoise ocean crashing against colourful rock formations. Every turn revealed a different perspective and a reason to stop and take photos to capture the memories.
This was just one of the hikes I took during a week-long hiking holiday with a group of friends in Madeira. As avid hikers in the UK, usually found in the Lake District most weekends, we’d heard time and time again that Madeira was one of the most incredible islands
in Europe for hiking, with a varied mix of terrains from levada trails to hidden waterfalls, steep mountains and, as we saw from Sao Lourenco, glorious coastal pathways.
Sao Lourenco
Ponta do Rosta
And everything we had heard turned out to be true – with so much more I could add. It was day after day of discovering new landscapes and exploring some of Madeira’s most popular routes, and seeking out some of the lesser-known trails. Planning couldn’t be easier thanks to the naming system of the island’s trails – all of which start with PR meaning ‘Pequena Rota’, which translates to ‘small route’, followed by a number.
PR1 is perhaps the most famous hike, and a must on any hiking holiday. It takes you from Pico de Areeiro to Pico Ruivo – the highest peak on the island at 1,862m. It’s also where you’ll find the iconic ‘Stairway to Heaven’. It’s a challenging route with steep inclines and rough terrain, but the views are worth every step. Unfortunately following the wildfires in August 2024, the majority of the trail is now closed, but visitors can still sample a section between Pico de Areeiro to Pedra Rija Belvedere.
Before arriving in Madeira, I was a little confused by all the talk of levada trails – what is a levada? Do we have them in the UK? The answer is no, there are no levadas in the UK, but there are over 3,000kms of them in Madeira. In short, they are irrigation channels transporting water from the springs at the top of the mountains down to the valleys below. They provide a natural footpath through some of the most breathtaking scenery, and at times they are the only means of access to certain places and areas of natural beauty.
Amongst the many levada trails we walked, the most popular was PR6 – the Levada das 25 Fontes – a moderate trek passing Risco waterfall, through thick forest and onto the star of the show – a weeping wall of 25 streams falling into the clear pool below. However, my favourite levada trail was PR6.3 – Lagoa do Vento – a short trail of just 7km which passes a levada waterslide, and leads to the base of the waterfall in a quiet, secluded spot, ideal to stop for lunch or just to relax and soak up the surroundings. From here you are actually at the top of a tier of waterfalls and below you’ll find Risco and 25 Fontes from the PR6 route. You can even walk to the top of Risco where the water cascades over the edge – but take extreme care as there are no guardrails or barriers.
Aside from excellent hikes and scenic trails, there’s plenty to see and do in Madeira. The capital, Funchal, is a vibrant city on the coast, boasting cobbled streets lined with shops, restaurants and bars… and the unique attraction of basket-weaved tobogganing! And the smaller town of Calheta, with its laid-back waterfront restaurants, where a perfect Sunday evening was spent enjoying cocktails as the sun set. As highly as I recommend Madeira, I’ll leave you with a word of warning – if you’re tempted to try the traditional Madeiran tipple Poncha, then do so at your peril and remember – small sips, not down in one!
Next steps
To plan and book a hiking holiday to Madeira or elsewhere in the world contact Silver Travel Advisor on 0800 412 5678. visit silvertraveladvisor.com
Stairway to Heaven
A GARDENER’S PARADISE
Give your Outdoor Space a Lift in 2025
Is it time to start afresh in the garden and turn those ideas you’ve been dreaming about over winter into reality. Whether a major transformation or simply disguising an ugly drain cover, making plans and acting on them is exciting and rejuvenating for you and your outdoor space. One of the best moves I made last year was to give my wooden panel fencing a facelift. The dark protective coating had done its job but really made the garden feel much smaller and enclosed than it needed to be. Admittedly the lighter paint finish I chose required a few coats to mask what was underneath but the difference it made justified all the hard work – not only has the fencing receded from view but the paler backdrop really sets off plants growing against it.
Borrow the view
Is there a view or attractive feature beyond your garden that you could focus the eye on to make your plot feel bigger than it actually is? It could be a church spire, a group of trees or perhaps some hills on the horizon. Trimming an opening in a hedge will frame the scene and draw the eye to what lies outside as will creating a ‘window’ in a boundary wall. Some rustic screening or trellising with an archway in it can have the same effect. Alternatively, use a simple pair of trees in pots or two attractive tall urns either side of a feature to direct attention to it.
Grow wild
Many modern flowers offer wildlife little or no nectar or have such large and intricate flower heads that insects can’t find a way inside to reach it. Provide a helping hand by planting a native wildflower patch that will offer food, in the form of pollen, seeds, fruits, nectar and foliage to feast on, as well as shelter and
nesting sites. Go for plants like common knapweed (Centaurea nigra) and oxeye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgar). Field scabious (Knautia arvensis) has lovely lilac flowers, shaped like a pin cushion on tall upright stems and flowers between July and September. For scent try chamomile with its apple-like aroma in June to August. Wildflowers are not only easy to grow but fairly pest resistant too.
Take it easy
Having a gorgeous garden doesn’t mean you have to be a slave to it. Keep things low maintenance by growing plants that are reliable, easy to care for and offer a long flowering season. Evergreen shrubs like viburnums, mahonia and camellias have attractive flowers, provide year-round interest and need little pruning. And don’t forget bulbs will come back year after year. In spring snowdrops (galanthus) look wonderful planted in drifts under trees or brightening up bare space between border shrubs. Crocuses inject much needed colour at this time too. Choose perennials like Geranium ‘Rozanne’ that just need deadheading to encourage more flowers and go for trees like acers that will add height but need little to no pruning.
Devise a plan
Grab a diary or calendar in the new year sales or programme your phone to remind you about jobs, like pruning and sowing, that need to be done at a particular time. If it’s major design work you’re considering then don’t underestimate the importance of planning before digging. It’ll save time and stop you from making costly mistakes when you’re tempted to buy at the garden centre. Knowledge is key so get to know everything about your plot from soil type to which areas
are in sun and shade. Are there large trees that will affect plant growth or structures, like a bin store, that you’d like to disguise. Know what you want to use your garden for and how much time and resources you can devote to it.
Get the seasons covered
Whatever the season you can never predict the weather. A veranda or gazebo will take all the guesswork out of the equation, leaving you free to entertain outdoors whenever you want or just relax and enjoy the garden year-round under cover from rain or full-on sun. Seek out designs like those offered by & urbandecorbury.co.uk, who provide bespoke aluminium framed options that not only fit against a structural wall but include a choice of polycarbonate or glass roofing, all in a range of sizes and colours.
Add water
Tap into the relaxing sound of running water. These days we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to designs and size of water features. From traditional ponds with built in electrics for larger plots to solar fountains for smaller ones, water adds an extra dimension to your outdoor space and also encourages wildlife. Make it a focal point or use it in amongst planting or a quiet corner for added interest. A still water feature, hidden from view ready to be discovered, is effective too as it provides an element of surprise.
Love your lawn
If you don’t have time to do anything else then the quickest and best way of giving your garden a lift is to make sure lawn edges are looking neat and tidy. It’s amazing what a difference a trim can make. Well-defined edges against paving show you care and look really stylish. Do it at least once every other cut using long-handled edging shears or a special half-moon edging iron. A powered nylon-line trimmer will make quick work of a larger lawn.
Think outside the border
Don’t confine plants to borders and patio pots. Create extra space for them to grow in by lifting slabs and planting up the gaps with tough rock plants, low growing herbs and succulents. If you’ve got a large expanse of patio that you want to keep for entertaining, it’s a simple way of softening the look of it and makes the space much more inviting and individual. In the same way see a broken slab as a planting opportunity rather than an eyesore. Choose drought tolerant types that are happy with limited root space like Thymus serpyllum, houseleeks and aubretia. Less hard landscaping is good for the environment too.
Summer Gardening
Sarah Plested, a horticulturist and garden designer based in North East Hampshire, discusses the use of colour in the garden and explains the principles behind successful plant combinations.
My favourite take home from RHS Chelsea Flower Show this year was the use of bold, bright colours. Out were the wishy-washy pastels and white gardens of previous years and back with vengeance were golden yellows, bright reds, deep blues, purples and oranges. In the glorious May sunshine, the rainbow of colours was a sight to behold.
In our own gardens, great combinations are often the result of a happy accident, either by a plants self-seeding or the need to fill a gap with a plant donated by a friend or in a sale at the garden centre.
When designing, plant combinations are the key to a successful planting plan with colour, form, texture and flowering time all considerations when selecting plants.
We all have our favourite ‘doers’; quite often plants that work hard with interest over a long period of time, aren’t fussy and behave themselves!
Choice of colour
The basics of the colour wheel work for planting too. Opposite or complementary colours work well together such as orange and deep purple or yellow and blue. Choosing a palette of colours side by side on the colour wheel (analogous colours) creates a harmonious arrangement. These two rules can be combined, for example a splash of dark purple from Heuchera ‘Obsidian’ in a border of pinks and blues, or the sharp lime green from Euphorbia shillingei, provide a contrast to the pale colours and really set them off.
Quite often my clients express a dislike of yellow flowers and both red and yellow can sometimes jar in the flower border unless they are positioned with a complimentary or analogous colour. One
of my favourite combinations is the bright yellow of Hemerocallis lilioasphodelus and the rich magenta of Geranium ‘Ann Folkard’. My Rosa ‘Evelyn Fison’ is displayed at its best with the large deep bronze leaves of Canna ‘Wyoming’ forming the backdrop behind.
Form and appearance
I use the term ‘Form’ rather than ‘Shape’ because plants are three dimensional, organic shapes and as such can provide depth, width and height in border. All of these are of equal importance and the right combination provides the structure that will change through the seasons.
Evergreen shrubs are the bones of your garden along with plants with winter interest; displaying colourful or textured bark, interesting twisted bare branches or brightly coloured stems.
Perennials and bulbs provide the perfect opportunity to change the height of your border through the seasons. Spring bulbs such as Camassias and Tulips can make way for later flowering perennials such as Veronicastrum virginicum ‘Fascination’ and Foxgloves. Some perennials add real architectural interest during the summer months such as Angelica, large ferns and the tall flowering stems of Acanthus mollis.
Combining plants that create tight mounds, with more relaxed sprawling
forms and tall slim structure with plants with a broader habit, introduces interest in the garden and also ensures that plants get the right amount of light they require and don’t compete for space.
Texture and composition
This can be visual as well as physical. Light ephemeral flowers of grasses, Heucheras and Gaura lindheimeri ‘Whirling Butterflies’ contrast against the large leaves of Hostas and Ligularia or the spikey leaves of Acanthus. When putting plants together, the shape of their leaves as well as their flowers should be considered. Many plants have a short flowering period so the foliage is just as key in an attractive planting scheme.
Plants that cry out to be touched (a personal favourite is Pennisetum villosum) can be positioned by paths or terraces and enjoyed in passing, encouraging interaction on the journey through your garden.
Flowering
Making sure your garden provides pleasure throughout the year is probably the most challenging aspect of planting design. If you require a low maintenance planting scheme then focus on evergreen structure,
flowering trees and shrubs and foliage colour. Bulbs and semievergreen perennials are useful for adding interest through the seasons.
If you enjoy gardening and want to achieve a more active planting scheme that changes throughout the seasons, planning is key. There are useful combinations of early and late flowering perennials such as Aquilega vulgaris and Anemone x hybrida that can be planted side by side, without one drowning out the other. Bulbs are useful too, Alliums can be planted with Verbena bonariensis as their leaves will have died back long before the Verbena is reaching skywards. A note on Alliums, plant geraniums or other groundcover to hide their leaves which die back before they are in flower.
Make sure you know the mature size of the plant you select. Shrubs can be underplanted with perennials until they reach maturity, but perennials mature within two years so don’t be tempted to plant them too close together.
Much research has been carried out into plant communities; plants that live happily side by side without one species dominating or shading its neighbours. A good example is a wildflower meadow, where plants with similar requirements have no need to fight for nutrients, light or water. This balance is quite difficult to achieve in our gardens so we can cheat a little!
Cannas, Dahlias and other late flowering non-hardy plants are ideal for filling gaps when the early summer flowers are past their best. I over-winter mine in a small coldframe, or they can be kept in a garage. Their rich, bold shades soak up the late summer sun and my borders are transformed from light and airy in early summer to opulent and rich, stretching right into Autumn.
Annuals also have a role to play in keeping the colour going and filling in gaps. Raise them from seed in early spring or select from the huge array on display in garden centres and nurseries.
Finally, pots are an excellent way of introducing a dash of colour. A cheerful pot of tulips can be positioned for maximum impact and then replaced with summer bedding or Agapanthus later in the summer. Their portability is an added advantage, pots can be moved to wherever they are needed.
True harmony in your garden is achieved when there is the right balance of colour, texture, height and form and the pleasure gained from trying to achieve this is perhaps as important as the end result.
PONDS
One of the biggest events of the summer is the annual Pond Skaters’ Regatta.
Along with the raising of the Siberian Flag , the first Comet shower and the fly-past of mating dragonflies.
For those lucky enough to have a pond.
Just as pets are good for our mental health, so too can ponds help us live mentally healthier, more serene lives.
Having and caring for a pond has many benefits. It brings increased regular physical activity in the form of distributing high-nutrient fish flakes and sticks. And lifting heron decoys.
But, above all, a pond offers unconditional love. Looking after a pond can help you feel wanted and needed. A pond calms, reducing anxiety and isolation. Herons and blanketweed notwithstanding. Ponds do not judge or criticize. They help you meet like-minded people for whom water features are not taps.
People who like browsing around fish tanks, solar fountains, water filter pumps, cascading waterfalls, pond vacuums, water clarifiers, artificial mallards, plastic heron deterrents and reliable bottom cleaners.
People who are at their happiest in close proximity to a pond supplier.
It is amazing how much pleasure a hole, some impermeable geomembrane pond liner or pre-formed, rigid. high-density polyethylene mould with built-in ledges, some tap water and a few plants can bring. As a Blagdon’s non-dig patio pool.
There you can plan your water soldier parade and choose water lilies such as Alba, Mrs Richmond, Barbara Dobbins, Gloire Temple-sur-Lot, Alba and Madame Wilfon Gonnere.
Unlike a dog or a cat, a pond isn’t expensive. They don’t cost much to feed. They don’t require insurance (except if you keep koi)) or a licence. They don’t need toys which are shredded within minutes. They don’t need to be walked. Litter trays don’t have to emptied. They don’t need to be kennelled when you go away. A neighbour can always pond sit for you. They don’t bite or bark and they don’t run up ruinous vets’ bills.
Ponds do get ill. But slime disease, white spot ich, anchor worm and carp pox are easily and cheaply cured.
You may not be able to stroke or cuddle a pond but the only real disadvantage of building and owning your own pond is forgetting it is there. This usually happens when, coming home from the pub a little worse for wear, you trip over the edging rockery, and enter your house wearing a toupee of oxygenating plants and algae bloom.
Ponds are a long-term commitment. One of the great joys of having a pond is watching it grow up. A friend of ours has framed photos of his shubunkins. As fry, five-year-olds teenagers and mature adults.
Finding the right fish and plants for your pond is fun and rewarding. You must take into account water temperature, pH level, and oxygen content. And remember that all fish and ponds really need is water. A full pond is a happy pond.
A pond – which should not be too ornamental which means overstocked with poolside fishing gnomes- brings beauty and tranquillity into our lives.
As well as frogspawn and newts.
Visiting an aquatic centre is like visiting an animal rescue centre. But it is fish as well as sedge that have the pleading, take-me-home-with-youeyes.
The choice is huge – fancy goldfish (Carassius auratus), fantails (with forked caudal fins ), cornets, orfes,( keep in mind they’re exceptionally active, making them prone to oxygen deprivation and jumping out of the pond), minnows, Orandas, pandas, giant jellyheads and molluscs like Japanese trapdoor snails.
Freshwater turtles are not recommended for British ponds. Although sharks are.
High-fin band sharks (myxocyprinus asiaticus) are good pond janitors and pond cleaners. Like dwarf hairgrass.
Plant-wise you have your pick of deep water violets, all-summer flowering water avens, geums, avens, iris Louisianas, ragged robin, water mint, bog bean, water spearmint, “Black Magic” elephant ear, obedients, yellow creeping jenny, white skunk cabbage, society garlic, scarlet monkey flowers, cardinal flowers, bulrushes, reeds, veronica, orange peel plans, common cotton grass, pickerel weeds, corkscrew rush( juncus effusus) and flowering rush, ferns, fibre optics ( isolepsis cerne) and Houttuynia Cordata Boo-Boo.
No pond should be without a hardy perennial Arum lily “Crowborough” Zantedeschia aethiopica.
With a pond you are always in the centre of life. Never at the margins.
A pond is a friend for life. And now, for many, man’s second-best friend.
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Discover The Peaks, a brand-new collection of affordable 1 and 2-bedroom apartments and 2-bedroom bungalows. Enjoy independent living with peace of mind in a welcoming, secure community, exclusively for over 55s.
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DOOR TO D OO R COACH TOURS 2 02 3
WE DO THINGS A BIT DIFFERENTLY THAN OUR RIVALS.
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!
www.ellensmith.co.uk
WE ARE FINANCIALLY SECURE.
If you’ve never tried coach holidays before, why not let We’ve been established for over 120 yearsso we know a bit about coaching holidays!
1
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?
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 All our customers are offered our coach specific insurance, pre existing medical conditions
WITHIN 30 MINUTES
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KILLARNEY & THE RING OF KERRY
Killarney Towers Hotel
A bustling town and full of character, Killarney is Ireland’s oldest and most popular tourist destination. On our tour we enjoy a jaunting car ride, a Lake Cruise as well as exploring the spectacular Ring of Kerry.
A WEEK ON THE ENGLISH RIVIERA
The Queens Hotel
The warmest of welcomes awaits you on the English Riviera, South Devon’s beautiful coastline. One of the brightest jewels in the English Riviera’s crown, you are met in Paignton with the welcoming sights of its long stretch of beautiful and easily accessible beachfront and traditional pier. 15th August | 8 Days | £819
The Millennium Copthorne Hotel
This action-packed, live blockbuster performed by a cast & crew of 1,000, takes you on an amazing journey through 2,000 years of history, myth, and legend.
BOATS & TRAINS OF NORFOLK
The Mercure Hotel
North Norfolk is renowned for its spectacular coastline, fantastic wildlife, miles of glorious beaches, seaside communities, and a beautiful hinterland of rolling countryside and picturesque market towns and villages.
RAIL’
Summerhill House Hotel
ROYAL RETREATS
The Woodlands Hotel
Experience the splendour of a 5-day getaway to Dundee & Perthshire, where ancient castles and a renowned Royal ship await your discovery. Immerse yourself in the rich history of clan feuds, battles, and Jacobite uprisings in this storied region.
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.
SURREY’S SECRETS
The Wotton House Hotel
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 to explore.
Blackwell Grange Hotel
A splendid variety of magnificent scenery and contrasting countryside, with quaint Yorkshire towns and villages. We enjoy a ride on the Wensleydale Railway, re-opened after 50 years, re-living rural railway travel as it used to be and relax with a boat trip on the Tees to Yarm.
The Mercure Telford Hotel
Shropshire is especially rich in historic sites, charming market towns, and is a wonderful county for eating and drinking. On our tour, we hope you agree, we have chosen some of the very best the county has to offer.
S E L E C
O F O U R C O A C H T O U R S 2 0 2 2
A SELECTION OF OUR COACH TOURS 2025
EASTBOURNE
The Haddon Hall Hotel
LOOE, CORNWALL
ALNWICK & BEAUTIFUL NORTHUMBERLAND
ENCHANTING SOMERSET
Avisford Park Hotel
OBAN, MULL & IONA
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 for its three-tier flower decked promenade.
The Portbyan Hotel ~ 3 Star 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.
6th September | 8 Days | £649
7th March | 5 Days | £329
SCARBOROUGH
The Diplomat Hotel
rugged coastline give way to the Preseli Hills, historic towns, and little villages.
The White Swan 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.
Northumberland is a land of big adventures, breath taking beauty and unlimited possibilities. Discover romantically ruinous castles, barely visited beaches, bunting-strewn market towns, and enjoy endless experiences. 7th September | 5 Days | £579
ST ANNES ON SEA
St Ives Hotel
The Park Manor Hotel ~ 2 Star 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.
DURHAM, BEAMISH & BOWES
SOMERSET SPLENDOUR
Mercure Bridgewater Hotel
The Blackwell Grange Hotel ~ 4 Star
Somerset boasts five areas of outstanding natural beauty and the Exmoor National Park, along with a varied coastline with long sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and traditional harbours. Hidden gems are waiting to be found, and we hope you enjoy our pick of the best.
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?
SHREWSBURY, LUDLOW & IRONBRIDGE GORGE
Buckatree Hall Hotel ~ 3 Star
St Annes on Sea, on the Fylde Coast, offers a gentle and peaceful way of life. St Annes boasts a beautifully restored Victorian Pier, promenade with views across to North Wales, multi award-winning beach huts, a wide-open sandy beach, plenty of places to eat, and wonderful seaside charm.
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.
14th March | 5 Days | £389
EASTBOURNE
LLANDUDNO
The Tynedale Hotel
The Haddon Hall Hotel ~ 3 Star
Royal Hotel ~ 3 Star
One of the UK’s most diverse counties, West Sussex covers both coast and the South Downs National Park, encompassing hills, harbours, farmland, and market towns. There’s so much to explore, from the picturesque coastline to rolling hills and beautiful countryside, to bustling towns and a Cathedral city.
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.
8th September |
The Doric Hotel
Tynedale Hotel~ 4 Star
A holiday in Blackpool will leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed, and recharged p even if you are on the go 25 hours a day! Perhaps it’s the resort’s infectious zest for life, or may it’s just that, uniquely, whatever your routine, Blackpool can offer a perfect break from it.
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.
HEART OF ENGLAND
SIDMOUTH
The Royal York & Faulkner Hotel
The Abbey Hotel, Great Malvern ~ 4 Star
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.
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
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 treecovered hills.
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
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
The natural beauty of the Pembrokeshire coast is famed all over the world. Glorious sandy beaches and seemingly endless
Genteel Geneva
By Rebecca Underwood, BA Hons | Travel Journalist
Geneva, the second most populous city of Switzerland, is situated in Romandy, right on the spot where the sparkling waters of Lake Geneva meet the mighty river Rhône, and surrounded by the majestic Alps and the Jura mountains it is simply unforgettable.
A truly global metropolis, a financial hub, and the international heart of diplomacy, Geneva hosts the headquarters of the European branch of the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross. In 1949, the Geneva Conventions, which focus on the welfare and protection of prisoners of war, wounded participants and innocents caught up in conflict, were signed in this tranquil city.
Geneva, known as the city of peace, is one of the greenest cities in Europe, and provides a very high quality of life for its fortunate residents. To appreciate the stunning beauty of this cosmopolitan city, I took a stroll along the quays of Lake Geneva and admired the view of the Jet D’Eau, a spectacular fountain, which pumps gallons of water soaring up to 453 feet into the Swiss air.
I made my way to the English Garden at the foot of the Mont Blanc Bridge and you was amply rewarded with a view of the flower clock, which of course, as expected, keeps perfect time. For an insight into Geneva’s reputation as a city of peace, I visited the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum on Avenue de la Paix and observed the Humanitarian Adventure, a fascinating exhibition, which focuses on defending human dignity, restoring family links and reducing natural risks. Be sure
to see the interactive chronology, which presents 150 years of humanitarian history and you can see examples of Red Cross and Red Crescent operations currently taking place around the world. Also located on the Avenue de la Paix is the imposing Palace of Nations, which was originally built in 1929 to house the League of Nations and has hosted the United Nations since 1966. Visitors are welcome but ensure that you make an online reservation for the popular guided tour well in advance. This beautiful property is surrounded by an enormous park which features an abundance of towering trees and colourful flowers and you may well encounter one or two of the resident peacocks strutting around and defending their territory with gusto. I made my escape, and headed towards the Old Town and visited the Rath Museum to view exquisite collections of Swiss art. Built in 1824, the Rath, known as the temple of the muses, is located on Place Neuve, near to the city’s only remaining rampart walls
Another nearby attraction is the Maison Tavel, the oldest house in Geneva, which is also a museum. The original property was constructed in the 12th century and was rebuilt in 1334 due to fire damage. Located on Rue due Puits St Pierre, this property is a fine example of Geneva’s history, with an impressive display of exhibits dating back to the medieval period. For a very special treat, I followed in the footsteps of Lord Byron and Shelley and visited the Château de Chillon, located at the eastern end of Lake Geneva near Veytaux, 98 kilometres from the centre of the city. In June 1816, Lord Byron, accompanied by Shelley, was sailing on Lake Geneva and decided to visit the Château. Byron wandered around the castle’s dungeons and on hearing the tale of the imprisonment of the Genevois monk François Bonivard in 1530, he was inspired to write the narrative poem Prisoner of Chillon. Byron carved his name onto one of the pillars in the dungeon and it remains in place today. Records show that the castle dates back to 1005 and in the 12th century it was home to the Counts of Savoy, members of the one of the oldest royal families in the world and rulers of Italy for 85 years. Peter II, known as the Little Charlemagne, was the last Count of Savoy to reside in the castle and was largely responsible for expanding the property. London’s Savoy Theatre and the Savoy Hotel were both named in his memory. I wandered around the enormous main rooms and admired the four great halls and the opulent bedrooms, one of which was occupied by the Duke of Savoy and it is adorned with several beautiful examples of 14th century murals.
Geneva
Another popular attraction is the beautiful Lavaux wine region, which covers 800 hectares and was recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2007. The Domaine Bovy, a family owned wine estate located in Chexbres, is only 20 minutes drive from the Château Chillon and visitors to the winery are welcome. Selected wines from Chasselas are housed in huge oak casks for up to six months after direct pressing, cold settling, the adding of yeast and fermentation between 18 and 20 degrees centigrade. The red wines are de-stemmed, fermented at 28-30 degrees centigrade, frequently pumped and macerated for ten days and are stored in the oak casks for six to eight months. I visited the Bovy Cave, which is furnished with casks, each with a capacity of 2,500 to 5,000 litres and I needed no persuasion to take part in the popular wine tastings, held on a spacious veranda with spectacular views across Lake Geneva and the Alps.
To clear my head, I made my way back to the Old Town and took a brisk walk to the Place du Molard, the location of the Molard Tower, which dates back to 1591 and is the only remaining part of an enclosure built to protect the city. I strolled along the Rue du Rhône, a shopper’s paradise crammed with glittering jewellery shops with breathtaking displays of timepieces and other sparkling treasures. I passed by the chic boutiques including Chanel, Christian Dior, Gucci, Armani and Valentino and if, unlike me, you are enticed inside, be prepared to part with a substantial number of Swiss francs. Should you be pondering on splashing out on a new wristwatch, consider visiting the Patek Phillippe Museum, located on Rue de Vieux Grenadiers. The exquisite collections, displayed over four levels, are simply dazzling. Exhibits include watches and enamels dating back to the 16th century and the fascinating history of Patek Phillippe, founded in 1839.
For sailing enthusiasts, Geneva’s spectacular Bol D’Or Mirabaud, the most important inland regatta in the world, takes place, during the summer, every year. More than 3,000 participants are expected to race to Le Bouveret accompanied by 600 sailboats.
Or, you may prefer to visit the Geneva Festival, the largest tourist event in Switzerland, held in July and/or August and includes concerts, fun fairs, art and craft markets and a wide array of water sports including rowing and water-ski jumping competitions and life boat racing. Evening displays of fireworks, accompanied by music, light up the sky and children and ‘grown ups’ squeal with delight.
For the ideal place to stay consider the Beau Rivage hotel, located opposite the Jet d’Eau, on the Quai du Mont Blanc, a popular picturesque lakeside promenade. This grand property dates back
to 1865 and offers the highest degree of comfort and service. Accommodations are spacious and luxuriously furnished with rich fabrics, the latest gadgets and amenities and fabulous panoramic views of the Lake, Mont Blanc and the old town. Should you feel peckish, you won’t need to go far as Le Chat Botté offers outstanding French and contemporary dishes reflected in the achievement of a Michelin star. Or you may prefer the more informal dining experience at the Café du Soleil on Place du Petit Saconnex. Order the traditional Swiss fondue, made with a delicious cheese from Roche, a small village, north of Gruyére. Sample a tipple of Pinot Blanc Geneva, raise your glass and make a toast to the enchanting and genteel city of Geneva.
Chillon Castle
Lake Geneva
Geneva’s Flower Clock
Preparing your Home for Summer Days
NOTHING cheers us up when the weather is gloomy and rainy than planning for sunshine days, at home or abroad.
While booking holidays may not be for everyone this year – or within their pocket – looking at practical ways to make your home Summer-ready will definitely give you a boost.
Nor do you have to budget to spend huge amounts for the sunnier seasons ahead. Often, it’s just a matter of improving what you have and taking advantage of your current décor and furnishings.
On a practical basis, check for cracks and leaks around your home that the colder months may have inflicted. Ensure your GUTTERS are not broken or clogged up with leaves and check your pipes for Winter damage.
Don’t forget to check out basements or attics, too. If you need repairs there, get them sorted to have your home in tip-top shape.
HANDY TIP: Summer is definitely the best time for work on your BOILER so if it wants servicing, look around for good deals. Going into warmer days means less demand on boiler engineers’ time, too, so you can pick your times better.
Seeing the EXTERIOR of your home looking bright and cheerful helps our mood and Spring is also an ideal time to get this done. Colour improves kerb appeal.
Your front-door is the focal point of your home’s front exterior so make sure it’s looking good – clean, bright and welcoming.
Take a proper look at your GARDEN and make decisions on how it could look for the rest of the year. Spring is the time to spruce it up and plan it properly.
Sweep up any dead leaves, remove weeds and prune bushes and plants. Pre-Summer work goes a long way in helping your garden blossom later.
If you’ve got a bird bath or similar, give it a good clean – the birds will appreciate it as well. Mow the lawn and make sure it’s in good condition. As well as giving it the best possible growing start, it cheers you up as it’s nice to look at!
If you’ve got a BARBECUE in the garden, give it a deep clean before you really need it for warmer days. Remove that grease and grime embedded there to leave it sparkling!
Garden fences and walls could have suffered from Winter weather so examine these external areas. With fences, tackle the most affected areas with sandpaper or a brush and then add a layer of good-quality outdoor paint to return that uniform colour.
Check out your GARDEN FURNITURE to see if it’s damaged in any way or even just looking a bit sad. Remove dirt, cobwebs and leaves by washing with warm, soapy water. If you’ve got wooden furniture, use a pressure washer to get rid of grime that’s built up.
Do you want to invest in some new garden items and furniture? Fire pits, for example, with comfortable seating around are an excellent idea for family gettogethers and to enjoy every hour of fine weather right into the evening.
Tidy up your shed or garage on the next decent day. You’ll find garden tools and all you need for the Summer far more easily and create extra storage for your home.
Sort out your washing line. Drying clothes outside is not just better for the environment, it’s better for your clothes. And pegging out is so satisfying!
HANDY TIP: Clean your windows well, inside and out. You want the best of that sunshine to pour into your home and you’ll be surprised at the difference to the light just having really clean windows makes.
When it comes to your home INTERIOR, think about how you’re going to replace all the wintry furnishings for more summery ones. This includes swapping cosy rugs, candles and heavier curtains for lighter fabric and brighter colours.
fabrics or even voiles which give a balmy Mediterranean boost to any room.
Is this the time to install BLINDS? They are ideal for warmer months and give any room a quick “makeover”. Current styles and colours suit any room and make it come alive when the sunshine hits.
Do some or all of your rooms need PAINTING? Some may just need a touch-up but if you’re going to embrace the Summer months, having a change of décor makes your home feel like a new property.
Take a good look at colour charts and use shades that blend in with your current décor but may be one or two shades lighter. And add signature walls in brighter shades to add a focal point.
Bring GREENERY into your home – this is a great way to prepare your home for Summer and enjoying more life outdoors. Create your own clever arrangements with twigs and greenery in a pretty pot or vase and invest in attractive indoor plants that make you feel you can breathe again.
HANDY TIP: Putting a Peace Lily in a pot in various rooms in your home can help fight mould and promote freshness. They cleverly absorb excess moisture in a room and can prevent mould growth and mildew.
As Summer is a time for fresh starts, use Spring to DE-CLUTTER your home, clearing out rubbish and itemizing things you can sell or give away online or can take to your local charity shops.
Exchange heavy throws for light, airy linen, light fabrics and cheerful cushions. Take down those heavy CURTAINS and consider lighter
Is your LOUNGE FURNITURE too wintry and heavy? You don’t have to spend a fortune to replace it. Shop around for deals or visit any of your local charities’ furniture showrooms. The British Heart Foundation and Emmaus particularly specialize in good-value furniture at realistic prices, and you’re also supporting two excellent causes.
Bring out the lighter weight BEDDING for when temperatures are higher and look at colour co-ordinating them better in your bedroom. Could you do with a change of lighting here? Are your curtains Winter-weight when you could wake up to light streaming through to signal a really beautiful day?
Big Brands, Bigger Store, Better Value – All Under One Roof
Broadstone Mill Shopping Outlet in Reddish, Stockport is celebrating 25 years of big brands, great savings, and friendly service and there’s never been a better time to visit. With a recent expansion enhancing your shopping experience, the outlet now offers even more space, choice, and convenience under one roof.
Set across two spacious floors, Broadstone Mill features a wide range of departments tailored to your lifestyle – including fashion, home, gifts and more. You’ll find a great mix of womenswear and menswear,
from smart staples and weekend wear to seasonal fashion, footwear, and outdoor clothing. Women’s favourites include Apricot, Blue Vanilla, Mimosa Fashion, and Isabel London, while Weird Fish and House of Cavani lead the way in menswear. For outdoor wear, trusted brands like Regatta, Craghoppers, and TOG24 offer quality and value. With handbags, accessories, and luggage also available, it’s easy to refresh your wardrobe without the high street price tag.
The Galleries, also on the first floor, are home to independent retailers offering health and wellbeing products, beauty treatments, and unique handcrafted items, ideal for shoppers who appreciate originality and a personal touch.
When it’s time to pause, enjoy a bite to eat or a coffee at Caffè Massarella on the ground floor, or indulge in lunch, afternoon tea, or homemade cake at Angelica’s Tea Room upstairs, perhaps even with a glass of prosecco. Both cafés offer a warm, welcoming space to relax.
For the home, Broadstone Mill is full of inspiration. Discover stylish soft furnishings, candles, kitchenware, and occasional furniture – all at outlet prices. Bedding, bath accessories, curtains, and rugs have now moved to the first floor, making it easier than ever to shop for your home essentials in one dedicated space.
Have you visited our brand new tearoom yet? that special celebration. The extensive menu includes always freshly made sandwiches and now so much more besides and as much as possible the ingredients and produce are sourced locally.
vouchers are available, this is the perfect gift to say happy birthday, thank you or for an occasion such as Mother’s Day, for example. Why not pop along for the perfect cup of loose-leaf tea or bite to eat, and see for yourself?
Alongside the ever-popular sweet Afternoon Tea there is a new savoury addition as well. Gorgeous cakes, pastries, freshly made scones and sweet treats are available seven days a week. You can also add a glass of fizz to your Afternoon Tea or lunch, or even a glass of wine or beer.
Also newly opened on the first floor is The Sleep Haven, a specialist bed store offering comfort, quality and great value to suit every budget and bedroom.
Looking for gifts? You’ll find thoughtful presents for birthdays, housewarmings, or simply treating yourself. Every celebration is covered.
but had it’s official launch in February so it’s still feels and looks brand new.
Angelica’s Tearoom is the perfect place to meet with friends for breakfast, brunch, light lunch or afternoon tea – perfect for everyday or even
Without a doubt, Angelica’s Tearoom will become a new favourite. Call to book on 0161 953 4462
With over 350 free parking spaces, excellent transport links, and a calm, crowd-free environment, Broadstone Mill Shopping Outlet makes shopping enjoyable again.
Come and help us celebrate 25 years of value, variety, and great service – all under one roof.
Angelica’s is at Broadstone Mill Shopping Outlet Broadstone Road | SK5 7DL
www.broadstonemillshoppingoutlet.co.uk
The Vital Role of a Local Law Firm in a Village Community
One key pillar supporting this social and economic fabric is the local law firm. With this in mind, Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers are proud to return to their roots in Saddleworth with the opening of a new multi-service law practice.
Located on the High Street in Uppermill, the new office places Pearson right in the centre of a blossoming business community. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, Uppermill is gaining a reputation as a great place to live and work.
The new office will serve as a base for up to 25 staff, offering both personal and commercial legal services. Pearson is also planning to recruit more local team members.
“There’s been a real buzz since the hoardings came down and passersby have seen the newly redeveloped building,” said Richard Eastwood, Director at Pearson. “Uppermill’s strong sense of community makes it the perfect place to establish our new offices. We all live locally, went to school here, and have friends and family nearby. We’re excited to be part of the community once again.”
This opening marks a return to Saddleworth for Pearson, who previously had an office in the area during the 1980s and ’90s.
The new location in the historic High Street Square features buildings dating back to the early 1800s. In redeveloping the site, Pearson worked with local builders to preserve the character of the structure, respecting the area’s conservation status.
Over the past two years, the once-neglected building has been sympathetically restored, cleaned, and landscaped. A key addition for the convenience of clients is the inclusion of private parking, an important feature in a village setting.
“During the renovation, we remained sensitive to the area’s heritage and focused on providing a high-quality space for both staff and clients,” added Joanne Ormston, Director and Practice Manager. “Uppermill is a true village community, and many of our clients are part of that. We wanted the space to reflect the warmth and friendliness of the area.”
While Pearson serves clients across the UK, the team values the personal touch that comes with being a local firm. “A local law office provides immediate, tailored support without the need to travel to a distant city,” Joanne added. “Whether it’s drafting a Will, resolving a land dispute, or navigating family law, faceto-face service makes a difference — and that’s what we’re all about.”
The new Uppermill office includes state-of-the-art meeting facilities and will host community-focused events throughout the year. It is Pearson’s fifth location, joining offices in Oldham, North Manchester, Milnrow, and Failsworth. With nationally recognised lawyers and award-winning solicitors, Pearson is set to offer the same high standards Saddleworth residents have come to expect, now even closer to home.
JAMES MARTIN CHEESE
ITV’s Saturday Morning’s James Martin offers over 100 classic and contemporary recipes that highlight how cheese can add flavour, depth and indulgence to your everyday cooking. Here he shares 4 of them with us for you to try.
Cheese and bread are a winning combination and in this twist, instead of making a sandwich or toastie, a whole hollowed-out cob is filled with a creamy, cheesy filling.
Serve with a simply dressed salad to cut through the richness.
SERVES 4–6
l 50ml white wine
l 1 cob loaf, top sliced off carefully and most of the crumb removed
l 500g Cheddar, grated
l 500g Gruyère, grated
l 100ml crème fraîche
l sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
l 50g salad leaves, to serve
FOR THE DRESSING
l 25ml vegetable oil
l 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
l 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Method
Preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan)/425°F/gas 7. Pour the wine all over the bread and leave for 5 minutes until the wine is absorbed.
Layer half the cheeses into the bread and top with crème fraîche. Sprinkle over the rest of the cheeses and put the bread onto a baking tray. Pop into the oven for 15–20 minutes.
To make the dressing, whisk all the ingredients together, then add a splash of water. Pour over the salad leaves and serve alongside the baked bread.
HERBED LAMB RACK WITH RATATOUILLE
Grated Parmesan adds an umami element to the wonderful herby crust on this lamb, which is held together by the cream cheese. You can swap the Parmesan for Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano, while ricotta or mascarpone would work well in place of the cream cheese.
SERVES 4
l 8 rib rack of lamb, trimmed and cleaned
l 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
FOR THE HERB CRUST
l 1 small bunch of flat-leaf parsley
l 1 small bunch of mint
l 25g Parmesan, grated
l 1 thick slice of white bread
l 1 tablespoon full-fat cream cheese
l zest of 1 unwaxed lemon FOR THE RATATOUILLE
l 2 tablespoons olive oil
l 1 onion, diced
l ½ garlic clove, sliced
l 1 red pepper, diced
l 1 yellow pepper, diced
l 1 green pepper, diced
l 1 courgette, cut into 1cm cubes
l 1 aubergine, cut into 1cm cubes
l 3 large tomatoes, diced
l 1 small bunch of basil, torn
l sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Method
Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F/gas 6.
Heat a large frying pan until hot, then fry the lamb, fat-side down, for 2 minutes.
To make the herb crust, blitz all the ingredients to a fine paste in a food processor or blender. Brush the fat on the lamb with the mustard, then top with the herb paste. Transfer to a roasting tray and roast for 15–18 minutes. Remove from the oven and leave to rest for 10 minutes. Slice.
Meanwhile, for the ratatouille, heat a large non-stick pan over a medium heat, add the oil, then add the onion and fry for 1 minute. Add the garlic, then the peppers and cook for 30 seconds, then add the courgette and cook for another 30 seconds. Finally, add the aubergine and tomatoes, season and cook over a gentle heat for 5 minutes or until cooked. Finish by stirring through the basil.
Serve the ratatouille with the lamb.
BUTTER PANEER CURRY
Paneer is a cheese best enjoyed cooked and, like halloumi, its firm texture lends itself perfectly to frying. Firm, golden cubes are then smothered in a buttery tomato sauce for this delicious vegetarian curry.
Method
Paneer is a cheese best enjoyed cooked and, like halloumi, its firm texture lends itself perfectly to frying. Firm, golden cubes are then smothered in a buttery tomato sauce for this delicious vegetarian curry.
In a deep-sided pan, heat the vegetable oil to 170°C (340°F).
Deep-fry the paneer in the oil until golden – you will need to do this in batches.
Place a large pan over a medium heat, add 25g of the butter and
SERVES 4
l 600g paneer, cubed
l 2 litres vegetable oil, for frying FOR THE SAUCE
l 125g butter
l 2 onions, sliced
l 2 tablespoons garam masala
l 1 teaspoon mild chilli powder
l 1 teaspoon ground cumin
l 2 garlic cloves, crushed
l 1 tablespoon ginger paste
l 400ml vegetable stock
l 5 tomatoes, chopped
l 1 green chilli, sliced
l 1 red chilli, sliced
l 12 curry leaves
l 100ml double cream
l sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
TO SERVE
l chopped coriander
l basmati rice
then the onions and cook for 10 minutes until golden. Add the spices, garlic, ginger, stock and tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes. Pop in the paneer, chillies and curry leaves and cook for a further 5 minutes.
Stir through the cream and remaining 100g butter to finish.
Sprinkle with chopped coriander and serve alongside some basmati ric
SUMMER BERRY CAKE
The ultimate summer sweet, this berry cake showcases the best of the season’s produce to provide a colourful contrast to the pale icing. Simple to throw together but impressive enough to roll out for guests and special occasions.
SERVES 8 FOR THE CAKE
l 250g caster sugar
l 250g butter, softened
l 5 eggs
l 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
l 250g self-raising flour FOR THE ICING
l 400g full-fat cream cheese
l 100g icing sugar
TO DECORATE
l a selection of summer berries
l sprigs of mint
Method
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F/gas 4. Line a deep 25cm cake tin with greaseproof paper.
Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, beat the sugar and butter until pale and fluffy. Then beat in the eggs and vanilla and fold in the flour.
Pour the cake mixture into the prepared tin and bake for 1 hour. Leave in the tin to cool completely.
To make the icing, in a bowl, gently beat together the cream cheese and icing sugar.
Top the cake with the icing, then decorate with berries and mint. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
For many of us, gardening is more than a pastime, it’s a passion. A connection to the seasons. A way to create beauty and nourish the soul. But as we move into retirement, the physical demands of maintaining a garden can begin to outweigh the joy it once brought. The good news? You don’t have to give it up.
Across the country, our homeowners are discovering the joy of gardening, without the hard work, thanks to retirement communities that offer beautifully landscaped grounds, supportive services, and the freedom to garden on your terms.
Your Garden, Your Way
One of the great pleasures of retirement is having the time to truly enjoy your surroundings. For Adlington homeowners, Margaret and Keith, this means relaxing in the sunshine on their balcony or socialising in the summer house; without the stress of mowing or pruning.
“We love having a garden without the upkeep. The gardeners do a great job. There’s such a mixture of plants and the homeowners in the gardening club grow some wonderful flowers and produce. They put a notice up ‘help yourself to sweet peas’ and they did the same for the runner beans and for mint. They give the chef fresh herbs too.”
This sentiment is echoed by many homeowners. Lesley noted: “I know I’ll be comfortable and safe without worrying about maintenance, gardening or anything else. It’s all done for you.”
Homeowner Joan said: “I have an apartment with a lovely garden in front of it, which the gardener comes and manages. I can put my little cyclamen bulbs in, but we haven’t got that major responsibility anymore.You haven’t got to do it, and that’s lovely.”
There’s also a social side to gardening in retirement living communities. From competitions like ‘tallest sunflower’ to
impromptu herb giveaways, homeowners find creative ways to connect.
Gardens Designed for Retirement Living
At Adlington Retirement Living, all our communities are designed to make enjoying the outdoors effortless. Landscaped gardens are maintained year-round by our dedicated team. Homeowners are free to engage in as much (or as little) gardening as they wish – with raised beds available, gardening clubs to join, and peaceful spots to simply sit and soak up the view. From herb gardens to patio pots, summer houses to vegetable patches, our gardens offer something for everyone, and no two days are the same.
Gardening may change in retirement, but it doesn’t have to end. Whether you’re a lifelong, green-fingered enthusiast or someone who now prefers admiring dahlias to digging them up, there’s a place for you in the garden.
With support, shared spaces, and the chance to connect with others, Adlington Retirement Living offers a lifestyle where you can enjoy gardening on your terms. No stress, no backache, just the pleasure of seeing something grow.
So, whether you’re planting seeds with neighbours, enjoying the scent of sweet peas from your balcony, or sipping tea in the shade of a tree, you’ll know that your garden, like your retirement, is blossoming beautifully.
Come and see for yourself
We offer one, two and three-bedroom retirement apartments available to buy at locations around the UK. To find out more, join a coffee morning or book a tour, call the friendly sales team on 0800 118 1694 or visit adlington.co.uk to find out more.
Time to embrace a new lifestyle
Imagine a hassle-free lifestyle with more time for yourself in a welcoming, supportive retirement community. With thoughtfully designed private apartments, spaces to socialise in, a restaurant *, hair salon* and coffee lounge, plus, fully maintained landscaped gardens and our helpful on-site team available 24-7, you could start to enjoy more quality time doing the things you love, when you move to an Adlington retirement community.
