Bolton issue 46

FREE Please

BOLTON & BURY

take on

FEBRUARY - APRIL 2015

EDITION 46

Jane McDonald Still Following Her Dreams

Hairy Bikers

Healthy Low Calorie Recipes

New Looks for your Home this Spring

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s

at Synergy Dental turn to page 63 WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

e

holidays

made to

remember

In the heart of the Lancashire countryside you will find the beautiful Ribby Hall Holiday Village.

Over 100 acres of luxury accommodation, restaurants, cafés and bars, leisure facilities and an award winning Spa. Just a short distance away you’ll find the charming seaside town of Lytham St Annes and the bright lights of Blackpool. With something to keep every age entertained, Ribby Hall Village is the perfect place to enjoy a holiday with family or friends.

hol£id2a7y9s

from

*

e! for six peopl

Our fabulous cottages, with all the luxuries of home, start from just £279 for six people.

To book or request a brochure call us FREE on 0800 107 1931 or visit www.ribbyhall.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply. £279 lead in price applies to four night break between 20 Nov – 20 Dec 15 in a Poppy Cottage.

6821 RHV Over 50s A4 Ad 2015.indd 1

03/02/2015 15:10

CONTENTS

11-12

16-17

INSIDE...

6-7

Robinsons Holidays 2015 ...

Dates for your diary

8-9

River Cruising in Style ...

Chrissy Nason from Silver Travel Advisor shares here experience

11-12

The Great British Holiday ...

The best holidays here at home

16-17

Jane McDonald ...

The no-messing Yorkshire lass with a powerful singing voice

18-26

New Looks for your Home this Spring ...

Freshen your home with our guide

27-28

New Year, New You? ...

Improve your lifestyle

30

Top Tips for Losing Weight and Staying Healthy ...

Plus a free guest visit to Motorcise

34

Are you Ready to Become a Grandparent? ...

Top Tips for Expecting Grandparents

36-39

The Hairy Dieters...

‘Eat For Life’ recipes.

40-41

Eating Out Guide ...

With special offers for diners

44-49

Out and About ...

Places to visit and things to do

60-61

Living Life to the Full with Dementia? ...

Bolton's own Dementia Support Group.

27-28

18-26 34

36-39

Tailor made products and services for the over 50s • Home Insurance • Travel Insurance • Car Insurance • Gas and Electricity • Personal Alarms • Funeral Plans

For a no obligation quote, visit: Age UK Bolton Enterprises Ltd The Bolton Hub, Bold Street Off Newport Street, Bolton BL1 1LS Tel: 01204382411 (Open Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm ) or call

0800 085 3741

or visit www.ageuk.org.uk/products

6th Floor | 120 Bark Street | Bolton | BL1 2AX T: (01204) 860 194 | F: (01204) 860 213 e: admin@mcgrathmedia.co.uk

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Home, car and travel insurance are provided by Ageas Insurance Limited. Gas and Electricity is provided by E.ON Energy Solutions Limited.

Age UK is a registered trademark of Age UK (Charity number 1128267). The use of the name and logo Age UK is done so under a licence agreement between Age UK and Age UK Enterprises Limited, its commercial services arm. Net profits are donated to Age UK. Age UK Enterprises Limited.

Tavis House, 1–6 Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9NA. ID200457 03/12 MP2210V3MAR12 SL112286_15

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TWITTERING ON She wrote: "Celebrate Valentine's Day with a silly new interpretation of this piece, Fur Elise. Much love and happiness to all!"

Stone me!

A woman in the US has given birth to a baby weighing 14.1 pounds (6.4kg) - and he is already eating double the amount of an averagesized newborn.

Graham Smith

Keeping abreast of the times Celebrity culture is big business. To join this band of elite, dysfunctional people you need certain qualities. You should preferably be verbally challenged to the point where you cannot string a sentence together, tattoos over most inches of exposed flesh are a necessity, metal objects inserted in each bodily orifice add to the attraction, oh, and you must be vulgar.

My 2015 award for vulgarity has to go to Leeds lass, I think, Josie Cunningham who hit the headlines after having a boob job on the NHS and then employing an agent of dubious origin to publicise the episode and subsequent miscreant meanderings of a sexual connotation which included offering to have an abortion so she could take part in Big Brother. Worrying isn’t it?

In a “fly on the wall” TV documentary this fearsome looking specimen came over as a complete half wit whose antics are capable of extracting large amounts of money from today’s downmarket tabloid media. Her baseball capped agent was shown ferrying her around in a taxi to various photo shoots and locations in his quest to make a financial killing. He’s an oddball who has a grasp of how to manipulate social media so the femme fatale thinks she is rising to iconic proportions in the popularity stakes while, truth is, he is lining his own pocket.

There’s enough collagen in her lips to keep a small trawler afloat in heavy seas and her so far untended teeth would mean most sane men would need an anaesthetic and several strong men to drag them under the mistletoe with her. Her dulcet Leeds accent makes a Billingsgate fish wife sound like an elocution expert and she uses enough profanities and vernacular to keep Gordon Ramsay going for six months.

Barely a sentence goes by without use

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Maxxzandra Ford's son Avery is the heaviest ever baby to be born at St Joseph's Women's Hospital in Tampa, Florida. of the procreation verb or adjective and coming out of that falsely constructed generous gob it sounds like fingernails down the side of a ship.

In a scene of blissful domesticity she was shown with her mother painting skirting boards at the family home and holding a tasteful discourse about how much they ******* love each other and anyone who doesn’t like it can go forth and multiply.

Their application of the gloss paint was as thick as their awful accents and the result was very similar to their sordid way of life, runny, lacking in finesse and full of drips.

Josie describes herself as a model, for what I’m not quite sure. She sets out to shock and invariably succeeds. If your son brought her home you’d leave it. she is surely an ambassador for the cause of celibacy if ever I saw one.

In one of her outbursts, proudly sticking out her prosthetically enhanced chest, she said fat people did not deserve a gastric band on the NHS. She deserves two. One around her vile, over inflated gob and the other strategically placed and tightened about six inches lower.

Musical boob Now here is a much more tasteful story about the female form.

A tattooed model who became a viral star by jiggling her breasts to Mozart has repeated the trick for Valentine's Day. Sara X Mills, whose unusual rendition of Mozart's Eine kleine Nachtmusik notched up 37m hits on YouTube, has this time performed to Beethoven's Fur Elise.

The 27-year-old US model, who also jiggled her breasts to Jingle Bells for Christmas, plays Cupid with a bow and arrow for her latest video.

Avery, who was delivered in a natural birth lasting 18 hours, is one of the largest-ever born in the state.

Ms Ford did not know she was pregnant until about 35 weeks in, according to media reports in the US. She told television stations WFLA and WFTS that after she rapidly gained weight last autumn, doctors confirmed she was pregnant.

Ms Ford said she thought she was having twins at first.

Debbie Moore, a registered nurse at the hospital, said they would "definitely not" have recommended a natural birth if they had known how much Avery weighed, the Tampa Bay Times reported.

Avery's father, Allen Denton, told the newspaper: "I got a linebacker now instead of a fullback."

Ms Ford, who already has a one-year-old son and a five-year-old daughter, said she "just melted" when she finally held Avery.

Weather you like it or not Perhaps it’s my age but female weather presenters are beginning to get to me.

I’m old enough to remember Bert Ford and Michael Fish in their tweeds and sombre suits but today it seems an overwhelming number of presenters are women and more attention is supposed to be paid to the glamour than occluded fronts and deep depressions.

Is it me or are the isobars and low pressure areas being replaced by in your face cleavages and painted smiles? Are the flickering eyelashes and mascara supposed to detract from the fact that it’s below freezing in the Trossachs and scything down in the Gorbals, or is it all a femme fatale front to bluff us that half the time they get it all wrong?

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And the scripting is getting on my cold front too.

“As we go into the first half of the weekend”…is that Saturday? “The start of the new working week”…that’ll be Monday then?

at Charing Cross tube station, as well as Hampstead Heath and the South Bank of the Thames.

The huge puppet was made by a team of 19 prop specialists and made from more than 60 different materials including 90 sq ft of white fur.

The bear was created to promote new Sky Atlantic drama Fortitude.

Passengers on the London Underground were stunned to see an eight foot polar bear climb aboard a train.

Having recently moved to the Isle of Anglesey I’m having a bit of trouble with the language and local customs.

The road habits are quaint. They don’t use one roundabout where two will do, so, consequently you think you’ve finished your turn and you have to do it all over again and several times I’ve nearly cut across a grass verge in consternation but you get used to it.

It was controlled by two puppeteers who spent weeks studying footage of real polar bears in the wild before spending five days rehearsing with the device.

Bear necessity

All Welsh to me

Sky Atlantic director Zai Bennett said: "To launch our new Arcticnoir thriller we wanted to bring a realistic polar bear to the streets of London to give people an up close experience of what it must be like to come face to face with one of the biggest, but uncredited stars of our new show."

Dual language road signs slow you down too. Welsh bears no resemblance to any other language under the sun so more than once I have slowed to find the English version and drivers behind have cast aspersions on my parentage. But by and large I have to say that driving here is a pleasure. Far less impatient and road raged fuelled motorists is a delight and the volume of traffic is much less.

I’m sure I’ll get used to the double roundabouts and double “ls” in this lovely part of the world.

The giant bear, created by Hollywood special effects experts FX, was spotted

You’re Never Too Old To Learn!

Have you been thinking of buying a computer, or perhaps you’re struggling with your current Laptop, iPad\Tablet or PC? Well local businessman Wayne Goodman is here to help.

Eleven years ago, Wayne started a company called Doc Com Services in Radcliffe. Now Wayne visits homes and businesses all around Greater Manchester providing services such as tuition, maintenance and upgrades for all of your computer equipment. He can also supply new computers and laptops, as well as printers, webcams for Skype and much more.

Wayne says “A lot of people seem to be scared of the thought of a computer, however once I’ve shown them the benefits of services such as online banking, ordering groceries online and calling far-away relatives, people’s attitudes change. I’m patient and always happy to answer questions, plus I’ve always stuck to the motto of “no job is too small”.

Today our lives revolve around computers, and Wayne’s most mature customer is 91 years of age - so it just goes to show that you’re never too old to learn!

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

COMPUTER PROBLEMS? Don’t panic! We come to your home or office to get your PC or Laptop up and running in no time, happily answering any questions you may have along the way!

Our services include: • Slow PC’s & Laptops made fast again • Virus & Malware Removal • Home Tuition using your own equipment • Computer maintenance • Wireless Printer Setup • Digital Camera Tuition • Broadband Advice

• iPad/iPhone/ Android Help • Online Banking Security • Data Backups • Data Recovery • eBay Tuition • Wi-Fi Setup • ...and much more!

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We also supply windows 7 & 8 PC’s & laptops

Celebrating 11 years of I.T. help! call doc com services now on:

Tel: 0161 724 8171 Mobile: 07841 10 40 60 Web: www.doc-com.com

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Holidays from

£149

Robinsons Own Hotels

2015

Sunny Sussex Eastbourne

The Garden Isle Isle of Wight

Delightful Devon Torquay

Eastbourne is an “all year round” holiday destination with one of the best sunshine records in the UK.

The Isle of Wight offers stunning landscapes, award winning beaches, breath taking seascapes and not forgetting its extensive history.

With its mild climate and trademark Palm Trees, Torquay is one of the UK’s premier seaside resorts and has been fashionable since the 19th Century.

The Ocean View Hotel is an elegant hotel commanding magnificent views across Sandown Bay, the balconies provide the perfect place to enjoy the sunset on summer evenings. Guests can unwind in the piano lounge before enjoying an evening meal in the spacious restaurant. A night porter ensures 24 hour reception service.

The Abbey Lawn Hotel is an elegant Georgian hotel, in the grounds of the former Torre Abbey, with it’s newly refurbished conservatory / lounge offers the discerning holidaymaker an exceptional standard of comfort throughout.

The Imperial Hotel is an impressive Victorian hotel situated at the seaward end of Devonshire Place, an imposing tree-lined boulevard, less than fifteen minutes walk from the facilities and amenities in the town centre and across the road from the promenade and the bandstand. The hotel offers the guest a good standard of accommodation, spacious lounge areas and a majestic restaurant all in a dignified and tranquil ambience for the discerning holidaymaker.

Hotel amenities l All rooms have private facilities, telephone, television and complimentary tea/coffee and hairdryers l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Table d’hote evening meal with choice of menu, plus tea or coffee l Live entertainment most evenings l Lift serving all floors l Porterage.

Hotel amenities l All rooms have private facilities, telephone, television and complimentary tea/coffee and hairdryers l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Table d’hote evening meal with choice of menu, plus tea or coffee l Live entertainment most evenings l Indoor heated pool l Indoor bowling green, table tennis and snooker room l Lift serving all floors l Porterage.

Freephone: 0800 083 9900

Many of the bedrooms offer panoramic views of the bay.

Hotel amenities l All rooms have private facilities, telephone, television and complimentary tea/coffee and hairdryers l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Table d’hote evening meal with choice of menu, plus tea or coffee l Live entertainment most evenings l Indoor and seasonal outdoor pool l Lift serving all floors l Porterage

Groups: 0800 785 1025

The Robinsons Difference

Great choice of menus l Executive coaches with extra legroom l Includes excursions l Friendly staff l

Local joining points No single supplements* l High standard of accommodation l l

l

5 Day Tours

7 Day Tours

8 Day Tours

4 Nts dinner, bed & breakfast

6 Nts dinner, bed & breakfast

7 Nts dinner, bed & breakfast

Date 22 Feb 02 Mar 09 Mar 16 Mar 23 Mar 29 Mar 03 Apr 08 Apr 13 Apr 20 Apr 26 Apr 04 May 11 May 18 May 25 May 15 June 13 July 17 Aug 14 Sept 05 Oct 12 Oct 19 Oct 26 Oct

Imperial Ocean View Abbey Lawn £149 - £149 £159 - £159 £169 £169 £169 £179 £179 £179 £189 £189 £189 £199 £199 £199 £199 £199 £199 £209 £209 £209 £219 £219 £219 £219 £219 £219 £219 £219 £219 £229 £229 £229 £229 £229 £229 £239 £239 £239 £249 £249 £249 £269 £269 £269 £269 £269 £269 £259 £259 £229 £229 £229 £229 £229 £229 £219 £219 £219 £219 £219 £219

Supplements per person 7 Days: Imperial: Premier Room £20 Ocean View: Premier Room £30 -Sea View Room £10 Abbey Lawn: Premier Room £30 - Front Facing Room £10

We offer you ...

4 4 4 4

Own hotels in great locations Peace of mind security l Payment in instalments * Robinsons own hotels l

4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast 2 included excursions Free pick-ups Service of driver/courier

Loyalty Bonus Here at Robinsons, we are committed to ensuring that our customers are rewarded for their loyalty to us. For 2015, we are pleased to offer all our passengers the opportunity to take advantage.

A voucher will be given to all passengers by the tour driver whilst on holiday. This can either be redeemed on the next holiday booking, or can be saved in multiples towards a future holiday.

Date 30 Mar 05 Apr 12 Apr 19 Apr 26 Apr 03 May 10 May 17 May 24 May 31 May 07 June 14 June 21 June 28 June 05 July 12 July 19 July 26 July 02 Aug 09 Aug 16 Aug 23 Aug 30 Aug 06 Sept 13 Sept 20 Sept 27 Sept

Imperial Ocean View Abbey Lawn £249* £249* £249* £249 £249 £249 £259 £259 £259 £269 £269 £269 £279 £279 £279 £319 £319 £319 £339 £339 £339 £349 £349 £349 £359 £359 £359 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £359 £359 £359 £329 £329 £329

* Monday departure Supplements per person 7 Days: Imperial: Premier Room £30 Ocean View: Premier Room £45 -Sea View Room £13 Abbey Lawn: Premier Room £40 - Front Facing Room £13

We offer you ...

4 4 4 4

6 nights dinner, bed & breakfast 2 included excursions Free pick-ups Service of driver/courier

Date Imperial Ocean View Abbey Lawn 02/03 May £369 £369 £369 09/10 May £369 £369 £369 16/17 May £379 £379 £379 23/24 May £389 £389 £389 30/31 May £399 £399 £399 06/07 June £399 £399 £399 13/14 June £399 £399 £399 20/21 June £409 £409 £409 27/28 June £409 £409 £409 04/05 July £409 £409 £409 11/12 July £409 £409 £409 18/19 July £409 £409 £409 25/26 July £409 £409 £409 01/02 Aug £409 £409 £409 08/09 Aug £409 £409 £409 15/16 Aug £409 £409 £409 22/23 Aug £409 £409 £409 29/30 Aug £409 £409 £409 05/06 Sept £399 £399 £399 12/13 Sept £399 £399 £399 19/20 Sept £389 £389 £389 26/27 Sept £359 £359 £359 Supplements per person 8 Days: Imperial: Premier Room £35 Ocean View: Premier Room £50 -Sea View Room £15 Abbey Lawn: Premier Room £50 - Front Facing Room £15

9 Day Tours 8 Nts dinner, bed & breakfast Date 02 May 09 May 16 May 23 May 30 May 06 June 13 June 20 June 27 June 04 July 11 July 18 July 25 July 01 Aug 08 Aug 15 Aug 22 Aug 29 Aug 05 Sept 12 Sept 19 Sept 26 Sept

Imperial Ocean View Abbey Lawn £399 £399 £399 £399 £399 £399 £409 £409 £409 £419 £419 £419 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £419 £419 £419 £389 £389 £389

9 DAYS ~ ONLY STANDARD ROOMS AVAILABLE

We offer you ...

4 7 nights dinner, bed & breakfast - 8 Days 4 8 nights dinner, bed & breakfast - 9 Days 4 2 included excursions 4 Free pick-ups 4 Service of driver/courier

Visit us online at www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk and book a great deal today!

Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP.

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50 Plus Travel

sponsored by

River cruising in style

By Chrissy Nason from Silver Travel Advisor Following a long travel career, Chrissy Nason brings her experience and eye for stylish detail as an advisor and travel writer for Silver Travel Advisor, the information and review website for mature travellers.

For my first river-cruise experience I was delighted to be invited by Avalon Waterways on their inaugural 3 night sailing of Poetry II, from Cologne to Amsterdam.

First impressions didn’t disappoint: sleek, elegant, with a full-length sky deck, spacious lounge and dining areas, the ship exudes style. The staterooms (cabins) have the benefit of wall-towall panoramic windows to facilitate maximum viewing and create a balcony within the room. Beautifully decorated in contemporary style and furnished

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to a high standard, the staterooms are luxurious and comfortable. Storage in small spaces, always a challenge, was plentiful. The marble tiled bathroom and shower was a decent size, beautifully appointed, with complimentary L’Occitaine toiletries.

Ready to explore, I opted to join a walking tour of the city centre, keen to get a feel for Cologne before sailing later that afternoon. All destination excursions have an expert local guide and individual audio sets to give a personalized experience.

Cologne is home to Eau de Cologne, the fragrance created in 1709 by Johann Maria Fabrina. The original shop has its own little museum and although they now offer a wide range of fragrances, the original cologne is still sold.

The Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an architectural masterpiece and famous as the home of the shrine of The Three Wise Men, whose remains were brought to Cologne in the 12th century. The Cathedral miraculously escaped the WW2 bombing, apparently the spires were used as a navigational landmark to target the main railway

station located immediately next door.

A few minutes walk back to the ship, a short mandatory safety drill and with the sun setting behind the Cathedral’s spires, we set sail.

Relaxation and dining room facilities are plentiful and spacious for the ship’s 128 passenger capacity. After a pre-dinner drink in the lounge we headed down to a delicious dinner: typically, a three or four course a la carte menu, including regional dishes, with complimentary wine or local beer. The food throughout was very good with a choice of hot food to order or a buffet and salad bar.

The next morning we docked at Tiel with a choice of sightseeing: Arnhem or the Kroller-Muller museum (Van Gogh paintings). Most of us opted for Arnhem.

We drove over the famous reconstructed bridge to Oosterbeek and Villa Hartenstein, now an excellent museum.

We also visited the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery. Surrounded by woods, viewed through mist and rain it was deeply moving.

After lunch we sailed a short distance to Willemstad, a small picturesque town with well-preserved fortifications and a

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TRAVEL lovely octagonal church where we were treated to an organ recital. Back to the ship, another memorable supper and a great night’s entertainment from a local group who had everyone tapping and clapping and yours truly on the dance floor.

Overnight we sailed to Dordrecht with a choice of excursions: the worldfamous Keukenhof tulip gardens or the Kinderdijk Dutch windmill heritage site.

I opted for the Keukenhof Gardens, an hour’s drive. Open only 8 weeks each year, the gardens offer a stunning horticultural display: 7 million spring-time flowers within a wooded landscaped park with 700 tulip varieties.

Back on board, I requested a tour of the ship. Erik, the Cruise Director, pointed out some subtle design features: “slightly higher chairs and tables, perfect for those guests who can no longer touch their toes” he said giving me a knowing look. Coffee tables that can be raised to dining table height to allow guests inroom dining, should they prefer. The skydeck, a tremendous space for sunbathing and watching the world go by, with a hot-tub, loungers and a bistro area for lunchtime barbecue grills.

Certainly, for someone like me who suffers from seasickness, one of the joys of this cruise was the gentle, relaxing, motion of the ship. I rarely felt any vibrations and in the superbly comfortable beds (complete with memory foam mattress topper) I slept very well. Soundproofed cabins, Avalon’s state of the art design, quiet engines and generators no doubt helped, though the wine probably played its part too!

A river cruise with Avalon ticks a lot of boxes: inclusive guided on-shore excursions; full-board a la carte dining with complimentary local wines and beers; onboard gratuities; transfers and a private chauffeured taxi from your home to the nearest UK airport or Eurostar station (within a 100 mile radius). How good is that?

We arrived in Amsterdam all too soon.

Most people chose to add an additional hotel night to allow for sightseeing, but my flight home beckoned. After such a wonderful experience I’ve already got my eye on Avalon’s themed Opera cruise next year: on-board performances as you glide down the Danube from Budapest to Prague. I can’t think of a better way to experience Europe’s rich heritage.

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Sample Itinerary for 2015 ‘ Tulip Time’ The eight day Tulip Time cruise takes in the tranquil, open landscapes of Holland and Belgium and the Keukenhof’s magnificent spring flowers and the wooden windmills of Kinderdijk on this memorable river cruise. Highlights include an orientation walk in Veere, a canal cruise in cosmopolitan Amsterdam, sights with Local Guides in Antwerp, Ghent and Middelburg and the fascinating city of Maastricht. Cruises run from 31 March until 1 May 2015 and prices include return flights and airport transfers, a door-to-door home pick up service, a seven night full board deluxe cruise with wine and beers served with dinner, on-board gratuities and included excursions.

Avalon Waterways 0800 668 1801 or visit www.avaloncruises.co.uk

Silver Travel Advisor is a travel review, information and advice website exclusively for over 50’s, packed with articles, suggestions, tips and ideas. For free and independent travel advice as well as reviews about holidays, hotels, restaurants and days out, please visit www.silvertraveladvisor.com or email service@silvertraveladvisor.com. It’s free to register as a member of Silver Travel Advisor, and you could win a fabulous holiday prize.

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TRAVEL appreciate going to beautiful places in the UK.” If we can stand back a little from the whole subject of holidays and try to take a dispassionate look at what the UK has to offer, there really is something for every traveller and taste.

You can take the whole family – including the dog – to a luxury cabin in ancient woodland in the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, or wake each day on the banks of an ancient millpond in a beautiful dwelling in Deerpark in Cornwall, deep in a peaceful wooded valley.

You can take your touring caravan or motorhome to places like Holgates Holiday Parks, set in some of Cumbria and Lancashire’s most stunning countryside, dotted along the picturesque Morecambe Bay shoreline.

The Great British Holiday IF there is one thing that the recession has taught us it’s about getting value for money. And it’s not just being proBritish to say that you can now get the best holidays here at home.

ABTA – the well-respected Association of British Travel Agents – says that their recent research shows that 20 per cent of people surveyed would be spending more on holidays in 2015.

They also discovered that nearly seven in 10 people, that’s 68 per cent, took at least one UK holiday last year. Mark Tanzer, ABTA’s chief executive, believes that good weather in the UK in June and July helped. He says that “the research shows there are reasons to be optimistic for 2015.”

All of which is no surprise to the thousands of tourists who flock into Great Britain each year from other countries around the world. They come determined to discover the many attractions here. Perhaps we Brits are simply slower to pick up on noticing the wonders around us, but we are getting better at it.

Andy Kinnaird from Robinsons Coaches knows that the Great British Holiday

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is very attractive to the homegrown market. His business, based near Blackburn in Lancashire, was established in 1923 and today has 23 coaches with more than 160 staff kept busy dealing with this burgeoning travel market.

He finds that more people than ever are opting to stay in the UK for their annual holidays, citing “the hassle of going through customs and airports etc” as well as the constant discovery of new places without ever leaving these shores.

Favourite destinations for the many people he takes on their holidays around the country include the Isle of Wight, Eastbourne and Torquay.

More unusual destinations are the Hebrides, the Isle of Man and the Scilly Isles, although he does transport some foreign visitors like the Australian couple who wanted to tour Scotland.

Andy and his family shunned the charms of the Costas and the Balearics last year for the delights of Camarthen in Wales and Loch Lomond in Scotland.

“Yes,” he insists, “like everyone, we

Just as caravans have “grown up” in the last 20 years from being fairly basic to fairly fabulous statics with every modern facility and a genuinely comfortable home away from home, so have the holiday parks themselves been transformed.

Holgates, for example, has parks to suit everyone, whether you and your family like it lively with plenty of facilities to havens of peace and tranquillity where turning the page of a good book is the most movement you want to undertake.

As Simon Waterhouse from Holgates explains: “We’ve taken the awards for the Best Holiday Park in Cumbria and in Lancashire for the last two years so we’ve a lot to live up to.”

He’s noticed that more Brits than ever are enjoying the enduring pleasures of holiday parks, investing in holiday homes there and returning again and again. “Our park in Silverdale is in one of the most beautiful parts of the country so we have plenty of families who have been coming here for years,” states Simon.“ But the greater complexity of travel now – the greater security and the longer time it all takes to go away – probably helps people to choose to holiday in this country.”

If you like walking, you can see the ruggedly beautiful hills of Wales or the sleepy villages set in rural Yorkshire.

Stay in a YHA hostel in the South-east and take a gentle family chauffeur punt down the river in Cambridge or experience the thrill of the rides at Chessington World of Adventures.

The great thing about holidaying in the UK with your family is the wonderfully broad spread of activities on offer.

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Youngsters can run about, take part in planned activity programmes, go swimming or even take their bikes along when you’re having a staycation.

They don’t have to endure tiresome flights, hanging around in airports or not liking the food abroad. Children can make themselves understood to everyone, and discover for themselves just how beautiful is their own country.

Couples can quietly discover the real Downton Abbey – Highclere Castle in Hampshire – where fact meets fiction in fascinating English history. Our country has plenty of history, with stunning landmarks in Norwich spanning the Norman, Medieval, Georgian, Victorian and modern eras to Bath with its fascinating Roman baths. Visit York, where history leaps out at you around every corner. Travel to the capital and see the magnet of attractions that draw the constant crowds to its major art galleries, packed with masterpieces, the British Museum exhibiting the works of man from historic to modern times or the London Eye where the best views over the city are available to fascinate.

A holiday in the UK can turn into the kind of voyage of discovery that used to be reserved for early travellers setting foot in ancient lands for the first time. The sense of wonder is on offer in cities, towns and in tiny hamlets boasting a village church and a history recorded in the Domesday Book.

Our coastlines are among some of the world’s most stunning.

Just walk along the rugged cliffs of Boscastle in Cornwall and you’ll be treading on rocks first laid down 300 million years ago. Mind you, it’s also got some of the best beaches, too, and the longest: 476 km of luscious coastline.

You can cycle through the wilds of Yorkshire or take a more sedate luxury barge along the Lancaster Canal – or just please yourself and do both!

The Best of British Holidays at Ribby Hall Village Imagine your own idyllic pine lodge with outdoor hot tub or a luxurious five-star cottage, exploring 100 acres of beautiful Lancashire countryside. With plenty to enjoy bars and restaurants, an award-winning spa, tennis, fishing, golf, swimming, cycling or simply chilling poolside with a book – do as much or as little as you like, and at a pace to suit you. Holidays start from £279 for six people. Call 0800 107 0336 or visit ribbyhall.co.uk.

The Great British Holiday is the one that you like the best.

And it’s completely achievable, even with one eye on the weather.

Coach Holidays 2015 Grayway Coaches has remained a family run business for over 40 years providing value for money holidays and high quality service. Our tour drivers are very experienced in all aspects and we aim to make your holiday as enjoyable and as memorable as possible.

LLANDUDNO

VICTORIAN WEEKEND EXTRAVAGANZA Fri 1st May at GRAND ASH HOTEL

ONLY

£159

3 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

IRELAND

WATERFORD, KILKENNY & DUBLIN Thur 28th May at TALBOT HOTEL, CARLOW

ONLY

£299

RIVER CRUISE, TOWER OF LONDON & WINDSOR | Thur 28th May at HOLIDAY INN, HEATHROW 1 Night Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

LONDON

SHOWBOAT RIVER CRUISE & ONLY £129 LONDON SIGHTSEEING Sat 20th June at CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL, HEATHROW 1 Night Bed & Breakfast. Meal & Entertainment on Showboat.

TOP OF THE LAKES

3 Nights Dinner, Bed & Irish Breakfast

LONDON

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ONLY

£129

Sat 27th June at SHAP WELLS HOTEL

Sat 11th July ROYAL PIER HOTEL, SANDOWN 7 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

Sat 11th July OCEAN HOTEL, SANDOWN

ONLY

£435

7 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast ONLY

£99

1 Night Bed & Buffet Breakfast

ISLE OF WIGHT

ISLE OF WIGHT

ONLY

£359

LEEDS

WHITE ROSE & BLACK LIQUORICE Sat 11th July at HILTON HOTEL, LEEDS 1 Night Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

ONLY

£89

PLEASE RING FOR OUR FULL HOLIDAY BROCHURE

237 Manchester Road, Ince, Wigan WN2 2EA Tel: 01942 243165 / 235586 www.grayway.co.uk Email: graywayone@aol.com 12

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Door to Door Coach Tours with Ellen Smith Membership No: 10228

Coach Holidays with a difference.

We all know that often coach holidays get a bad press – waiting in bus stations for the coach to arrive, long arduous pickup routes to an interchange, waiting around there for your holiday coach all before you’re destination bound!

Once you’re there too often poor quality hotels with mass catering, an extra charge for outings and then to top it all off the same gruelling journey home – no chance of the six o’clock news!

If that all sounds too familiar why not give us a try?

We are Manchester based and offer the only true ‘Door to Door’ coach holiday service in the area.

Established as far back as 1900 in Rochdale we have a long and distinguished history as a good quality, value for money coach holiday operator.

What’s so different about us?

Firstly our ‘Door to Door’ service. This is a true door to door service. We pick you up from your home address at a pre-arranged time in a taxi or small minibus and take you straight to one of our two meeting points, Birch Services near Heywood or Poplar Services near Lymm. There you meet up with your driver and coach who will take you on your holiday.

There’s no hanging around, you’re usually on your way within 15 to 20 minutes. We don’t leave anyone behind!

taxi is waiting for you at one of the two service stations and you’re usually home with a cup of tea in time to watch the news!

What else can we tell you?

All our holidays are fully bonded by the Confederation Of Passenger Transport Bonding Scheme, which is a government approved consumer protection scheme ensuring your money is protected. We offer very popular ‘Mature Singles’ holidays where all bedrooms at the hotel are used for sole occupancy – great for the single traveller.

Oh and we offer continental coach holidays, this year Lake Como, Lake Garda, Swiss Chocolate Train & A Taste of the Alpine and Normandy for the D Day landing beaches.

We have a regular news letter the ‘Tiger Talk’, (our logo is a tiger) that offers new tours during the year and several of our popular ‘Mystery Tours’ during each year.

We have a website www.ellensmith.co.uk that has all the details of our holidays – and you can book on-line too.

If you wish to call us our staff are very experienced individuals who know lots about our range of holidays.

Finally we offer Fred Olsen cruises from Liverpool at prices you won’t believe and a variety of Air, Cruise & Worldwide holidays - all with our ‘Door to Door’ service included.

Your Driver is an experienced individual and the coach will be of an executive standard with toilet, air conditioning and reclining seats. On the journey to the hotel we tend to avoid motorway services and visit a village, town, city or other suitable location instead. Because of our timely departure we plan to arrive at our destinations at about 4:30pm giving you plenty of time for a quick snooze prior to dinner.

All the hotels we use are normally 3 or 4 star with the odd family run 2 star hotel, that we have used for many years. We use a range of different hotels to suit a particular tour. Many of our tours are themed – ‘Royal Sandringham & the Sport of Kings’ and ‘An Irish Country House Experience’ to name just two. All our tours include day excursions (no extra charge – ever!), which can include canal journeys, train journeys, castles, country estates and so much more.

The vast majority of our hotels offer a porterage service, so you rarely have to touch your case.

On your return date the reverse of the first day happens. Your

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Want to know more?

Call us on 01706 648126

for a copy of our 2015 brochure – you’ll wonder why you ever went away in your car!

13

Membership No: 10228

Why not join one of our Quality Door to Door Coach Tours?

We pick- up at your door in most of the Greater Manchester area.

We visit every part of the UK from the Shetland Islands to Cornwall.

Our drivers are very experienced mature individuals with a wealth of knowledge about our wonderful country. We do city breaks, historic adventures, scenic tours, train rides, boat rides, canal trips, not forgetting our numerous costal resorts.

On your first day of travel we pick you up at your front door at a prearranged time in a minibus or taxi.

You are then transferred to a central meeting point, either Birch Services or Poplar Services dependant upon where you live, where the coach is waiting for you. Within 15 to 30 minutes you’re on your way aboard our luxury coach travelling directly to your holiday destination, making suitable stops en-route. The hotels that we use are of a 3 or 4 star standard or occasionally a good quality family run 2 star hotel. Upon your return to either Birch Services or Poplar your taxi or minibus is waiting to whisk you home.

OL14

OL13 Bacup

BB4

Haslingden

BL0

Todmorden

OL12

OL15

Ramsbottom M66

BL8

BL1

OL11

OL16

BURY BL2 BOLTON

Heywood OL10

M26

BL4

Pendlebury M27 M7 M6

M41 Urmston

M32

Partington

M33

STRETFORD

SALE M23

WA14 M56

OL5 Mossley

OL6 OL7

M43

M34

SK15 ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE

SK16 M67

M19

M20

SK14

SK4 SK5 M60

SK3 M22 ALTRINCHAM SK8 WA15 WYTHENSHAWE

POPLAR/LYMM SERVICES

OL8

M35

M18

M21

OL4 OLDHAM

M40

M50 M17

M31

WA13 Lymm

M8

OL1

OL9

M9

M11

M30

M44

M25

M60

M28

OL3

M24 Middleton

M45

Walkden

OL2 Shaw

BIRCH SERVICES

BL3

M6

M62

ROCHDALE

BL9

STOCKPORT SK1 SK2

SK6 Marple

SK7

Included in every tour l

Luxury Hotel l Half Board l All Excursions l Door to Door Service

Ellen Smith Price Promise

1. Everything is included in the final price – no hidden charges 2. If we reduce a tour all customers previously booked receive same refund 3. No currency surcharges 4. Any supplement imposed by the hotel will be the exact amount we charge 5. If you find a similar holiday cheaper we’ll refund twice the difference!

DATE

HOLIDAY

DAYS

23rd Feb

‘Food Glorious Food' at The Merrion Hotel, Llandudno

5 Days

£289

1st Mar

Landlubbers Cruise

5 Days

£289

2nd Mar

Eastbourne - £1 Bar at The Haddon Hall Hotel

5 Days

£219

2nd Mar

Mystery Tour 99p Bar!!

5 Days

£199

3rd Mar

Cornish Delights at The Rosemundy Hotel, Cornwall

5 Days

£229

9th Mar

Cosy break, Paignton

5 Days

£229

9th Mar

A Little Bit of Luxury at Mecure Letchworth

5 Days

£229

9th Mar

Abington Hotel, Drinks inclusive

5 Days

£229

16th Mar

Mature Singles - Scarborough with York

5 Days

£239

20th Mar

Warwickshire Weekend at the Mecure Stratford

3 Days

£139

23rd Mar

Delightful Durham Dales at the Manor House Hotel

5 Days

£279

23rd Mar

Cambridgeshire Past and Present - Menzies Cambridge

5 Days

£329

27th Mar

Murder Mystery Weekend at Beaufort Park, Mold

3 Days

£189

Tynedale Hotel, Llandudno

????????

Palace Hotel

PRICE

2015 BROCHURE OUT NOW! INTERESTED?

Call our reservations office on 01706 648126 and request a copy of our 2015 brochure. You’ll be surprised at the variations of tours we operate.

Visit our website at www.ellensmith.co.uk Find us on facebook & twitter (search for ellensmithtours) www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Jane

McDonald IT’S amazing to think that it’s 17 years since Jane McDonald first captivated viewers in the BBC documentary-soap “The Cruise.”

16

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The no-messing Yorkshire lass, a singer on the cruise ship, immediately fascinated everyone with her broad Yorkshire accent, warm heart and undoubtedly powerful singing voice.

Right from the first sight of her, we knew she was a straightforward type of person, and she became the enduring image of that first series. The programme also provided a very useful springboard to success for Ms McDonald. But by then she had more than earned the right to it.

Jane grew up in Wakefield. Her father, Peter, was a miner who doubled as a chimney sweep and Jane’s mother, Jean, and Jane’s grandmother ran a boarding house.

Singing was what Jane was destined for, however, and for 12 years, she sang in the clubs throughout the North, honing her singing skills and learning to handle every kind of audience.

She also entertained on cruise ships and in 1995 she met her future husband, Henrik, onboard The Century. They married in May, 1998, and in January, 1998, the BBC began broadcasting its fly-on-the-wall documentary.

The programme was watched regularly by 14 million viewers and her wedding to Henrik, also televised, was watched by a large audience although the couple later divorced.

Such was her instant fame that in July, 1998, Jane released her first, self-titled album which spent three weeks at No.1 and went platinum.

In November the following year, she released her concert video, followed in 2000 by her second album, “Inspiration.”

TV proved to the nation that here was a girl who could not only sing but who was funny and could present. She became a guest presenter on BBC’s “National Lottery” before being given her own show, “Star for a Night”, which helped launch the career of singer Joss Stone.

Because of the way the public first got to know Jane, it’s always been difficult for her to shake off the image, as she says herself, of “‘er off the cruise ship.”

But, in fact, not only has she carved out a very successful TV career but she has regularly toured all over the country, and all over the world including America, bringing her own brand of glamorous glitz and powerful, entrancing singing to her legions of fans.

And she appreciates those fans. “To me, twenty fans are equally as important as twenty thousand fans,” she states.

“When I look out, I don’t see a sea of people but individual faces.”

She also has very loyal fans. “They travel around the country to see me,” she explains, “write to me, send me things and

are all so supportive. I always make sure when I do a concert or a TV show that I meet the fans afterwards.

“There’s been a time when the signing session after the show has lasted longer than the show itself! But I wouldn’t miss that for the world. Without them …. well … I woudn’t know what to do.”

Jane especially appreciates her fans since she became wellknown and started touring because of her tough years in the clubs. “When I sang before I’d have to compete with the bingo callers and people chatting at the bar,” she says. “I thought I’d gone deaf on this tour because the audience was so quiet. It took a while to realise they were quiet because they were listening to me.”

As well as her touring, Jane became a regular presenter on ITV daytime programme “Loose Women” where her forthright opinions were always loved by viewers. She finally left the series last year after 10 years to concentrate on her music career and toured the country at the same time as her latest album, “Singer of Your Song”, came out.

She’s made numerous guest appearances on mainstream TV - from “Ready, Steady Cook” to “All Star Family Fortunes” and “Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway”. She’s reviewed newspapers and had her own autobiography, “Follow Your Dreams” which was published in 2000.

Her shows are unashamedly showbizzy and fun with eye-catching sets and costumes, and Jane belts out all the favourite standards to please her fans. Indeed, she always seems to enjoy herself as much as her audience does.

She’s 51 now, divorced twice but happy finally with musician Eddie Rothe. They first dated at 18 when he was in the band Liquid Gold, but split up and Jane met him again on the set of “Loose Women”.

Her fans are a cross-section of ages, including her own age-group. “I see the same three rows wherever I go,” she states. “I’ve seen them grow up and go through marriages and losses.” And it’s to these loyal fans that she dedicated last year’s album and tour.

She’s just finished a stint in panto at Birmingham Hippodrome, in “Jack and the Beanstalk” playing The Enchantress, before going off on another series of sell-out appearances around the UK. But to all those fans who were first enchanted by her in “The Cruise” and who have remained keen to follow her career ever since, it’s plain that – while life may not have been all plain-sailing for Jane McDonald – she’s determined to continue putting a smile on other people’s faces.

For details of her latest appearances go to www.jane-mcdonald.com

For more articles like this one, please visit our brand new revamped website at www.50plusmagazine.co.uk ! www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

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Soothing, stylish dining is on the menu with the help of Colours at B&Q

New Looks For Your Home This Spring IF there’s one thing the freshness of Spring brings it’s the chance to take a new look at our homes.

WE RECYCLE FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS ALL AT VERY COMPETITIVE PRICES! 18

Winter-time tends to make us close the curtains, keep cosy and just enjoy being indoors, but Springtime is all about renewal – and our homes are at the front-line of these plans.

This may be the year, for example, when you finally add that muchneeded EXTENSION, SUNROOM or ORANGERIE to your home. Or you can make your living room and kitchen

TO DONATE YOUR GOODS AND ARRANGE A FREE COLLECTION

CALL 01204 398056

into a major open-plan space that could quickly become the heart of family living.

You may want to add the light and space of a CONSERVATORY. The key here is to ensure that it doesn’t look “tacked on” to your property. It’s important to give the appearance of flowing from the main house with the same flooring and décor.

Be careful not to over-extend your property, though, at the expense of your garden. Most of us value that bit of green space especially in the Spring and, if you’ve got the time and the interest, your garden can become a pleasing feature of both your home and your lifestyle.

www.emmaus-bolton.org.uk

Email: emmaus@bl36nf.wannadoo.co.uk DERBY BARRACKS, FLETCHER ST, BOLTON BL3 6NF www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

HOME Converting your garage into an extra bedroom or a kitchen extension works well in many homes. Most of us don’t use our garages properly anyway. They can easily become cluttered and many are never employed for their prime use as somewhere to keep the car, so using what your property already has available makes sense.

Changing your old FRONT-DOOR to a more modern design, preferably with glass to allow in plenty of light, is a simple way to freshen up both the outside and the inside of your home.

This can help update the HALLWAY which, after all, is the first opportunity you have to make an impression on any visitor. Bold wallpaper in bright colours on a white background is a great modernising option here. Hallways need light so look at your lighting and consider updating and add a mirror or two to maximise this.

Before you start buying items or investing in paint and wallpaper, a simple way to brighten up your home and give it a fresh feel is to undertake some serious de-cluttering.

Take an honest look at every room and see what you can take out to allow clearer surfaces, cleaner lines and a

(and lots of other items) to provide a home and work for previously homeless people. Emmaus’s recycling business ensures that their communities are self sufficient whilst also stopping huge quantities of unwanted goods going to landfill. If you are looking for great accessories, that special vintage piece or just something to upcycle then their shop offers fantastic value for money.

With a new cafe, clothes shop, music and collectables boutique, you can easily spend an afternoon there without spending much money!

Brighten up that home office space with a lively blind from Direct Blinds at www.directblinds.co.uk

general feeling of space. It can be hard breaking the emotional link to many of the items we insist on hoarding but try to be objective about possessions.

Changing your home doesn’t need to be all about costly major changes, though.

Going for a new COLOUR SCHEME or using WALLPAPER cleverly on a feature wall in an otherwise plain room can transform your property.

Most of us happily take the same items through each house move as though they had a right to be in the new place when, in fact, they’re of no real use to daily life.

Steam-clean your KITCHEN area – you’ll be amazed how this lightens the place and update white electrical sockets with chrome. Kitchens are a central area in most homes these days so it’s worth investing in new cupboard doors or work surfaces for a more modern look.

Rather than chucking out unwanted furniture, why not give it to a charity like Emmaus, who will collect it for free. They sell second hand furniture

Go for inexpensive plain tiles in toning colours to highlight smart units and one of the new textured floor coverings or rustic tiles. Even treating yourself to a

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19

HOME

DON’T REPLACE YOUR OLD KITCHEN

RESPRAY IT! GET AN AMAZING BRIGHT NEW LOOK!

set of brightly coloured kettle, toaster and coffee-maker can make your kitchen look chic.

Your DINING ROOM or dining area needs to be a place where you enjoy spending time so, even if this is a small space, create something Turn your bedroom into a contemporary special here. Buy a lovely and relaxing place with Somers bedding chandelier and choose from LUMA cool light greys and other pleasing shades so that you can eat in a pretty area that makes the whole experience a pleasure.

You don’t need to change everything in your BATHROOM – although if you’ve still got an avocado suite that might prove the exception! The most enduring contemporary look for bathrooms these days is still a white suite.

SHOWERS are quite futuristic now, as well as being very lifestyle-friendly, so changing your old shower is a practical improvement that won’t break the family budget. Going for natural colours on the walls, whether in tiles or emulsion, can be off-set by jewel-coloured towels and other accessories that can be picked up relatively cheaply.

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20

If you’re wanting a major change here and want to invest in your home, having a WET ROOM has become popular. Even smaller bathrooms can be adjusted with concealed shower trays that give the appearance of a wet room which can prove very practical.

Get clever with STORAGE in the bathroom in particular. Ditch the laundry basket for a start – you really don’t need to keep laundry here. Replace it instead with a pop-up laundry caddy for each bedroom.

Invest in an over-door towel rail, which is great for hanging up your damp towels. And go through all those lotions and potions that everyone has in their bathroom. They take up a lot of space and it’s a safe bet that you’ll never use most of them!

New BEDDING can alter a tired-looking bedroom, especially if you complement the shades in the rest of the décor. Jarring colours don’t work well here as this room is all about relaxing and winding down, so go for soothing neutrals with restrained colours.

Now so many people work from home, many of us have a HOME OFFICE but the temptation is just to hive off a space and stick a fitted desk in there. Instead, how about creating a work area that really does promote positive thinking with a fresh lick of white paint and a feature blind on the window with a splash of colour?

Don’t forget the WALLS throughout your home, either. An eye-catching painting, much-loved family photo or just a print that you like can come to life with a beautiful frame that adds interest to your home, and helps promotes the feelgood factor of Spring.

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S

M EW O O - N LAY R D E P BE UR DIS IT N N R SO U F GE N A R

NO AL W E ON

We’ve found that given the choice, customers don’t like flat-packed furniture and, we know the secret to success is to give customers what they want.

We are now stockists for Welcome Furniture .... ready assembled quality bedroom furniture.

Visit our showroom to view the new ranges on display.

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Independent Family Business Est. 1986

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Thinner’s A Winner In Worktops Agglomerate is the fancy-sounding name Granite Transformations applies to its kitchen worktop and bathroom surfaces. It’s beautiful, tough, durable and much thinner than other materials like granite, marble, engineered stone or solid synthetics, but equals or exceeds them in technical performance terms. To prove it, Granite Transformations offers an unrivalled lifetime material warranty. So, with the millionth agglomerate about to be installed worldwide, what makes this distinctive material a winner in the kitchen and bathroom? l Lightweight – agglomerate is at least twothirds lighter than other materials, so needs less reinforcement and can be installed vertically and horizontally. l Slimline – produced and fully-sealed only a quarter of an inch thick, it fits right on top of existing surfaces without adding depth or substance. l Tougher – the slimline profile doesn’t compromise strength and, unlike granite slab, agglomerate survives the dropped bowling ball test without breaking. (Watch the video on www.gt-bolton.co.uk) l Lasting – Granite Transformations’ agglomerate retains its luxurious good looks for so long, it is guaranteed against a lifetime of wear and tear.

our innovative ‘top that fits on top’ is

Easycare – unlike granite, marble and engineered stone, which need regular sealing and maintenance, our agglomerate just requires a wipe over with a damp cloth. l

Filming Channel 5’s Half Built House

much favoured by TV makeover programmes

We’re well connected

...............................................

Resistant – agglomerate is certificated to be highly But perhaps the biggest appeal of Granite resistant to liquids, chemicals, scratches, impact and Like the discreet joins and edging pieces on our fitted work surfaces, we are very well Transformations agglomerate is that it will be burns and is harder than natural materials. connected elsewhere. Our innovative ‘top that fits on top’ is much favoured by TV measured-up, made off-site and installed in just one makeover programmes like DIY SOS, 60 Minute Makeover, You Deserve This House, Half day. What’s more, the expert, factory-trained fitters Built House and Double Your House For Half The Money, because the luxurious finish and l Greener – made using a high percentage of recycled ensure aschedules consistently standard of workmanship our fitters’ ability to comply with tight filming make it perfecthigh for the ‘instant content like post-consumer glass and recovered granite and finalguru, proof that a winner. transformations’ that characterise theseprovide shows. TV property Sarah Beeny is a thinner’s big and quartz, agglomerate is green by design. fan of our product, using it extensively on her Rise Hall renovation project. Whilst over l

in Australia, where Granite Transformations originated, our brand ambassador is

Visit their beautiful studio’s in Bolton Affordable – agglomerate is fitted over existing Australian of the Year, Ita Buttrose, who was actually a highly satisfied customer and is now most happy to endorse Altrincham our product. If, like these shows and celebrities, you’re or simply visit Ita Buttrose worktops and other surfaces, making it cheaper, easier looking for a first class makeover, you can trust our name. and less disruptive to install, with less waste. www.gt-bolton.couk l

&

“The best kitchen renovation I ever had was with Granite

Versatile – fit it on top of worktops, vanities or wash Transformations. Ten years later and they’re still my stands, on floors, stairways and pool surrounds, as first choice.”

Ita Buttrose splashbacks, shower liners and panels. l

“We‘ve worked with Granite Transformations and I have to say

Beautiful – made with Italian granite, quartz or they’re brilliant. It’s a really great product... it’s very thin and you get that granite look without the cost.” recycled glass, it’s beautiful in black, refined in earthen Sarah Beeny tones, brilliant in white and bold in primary colours. l

Sarah Beeny

20

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Bosch 1200 Spin Washing Machine with 7kg Load

Right now at Simply Electrical stores

• A+++ Energy • VarioPerfectTM • 2 Year Warranty • H. W. D. (cm) 84.8 x 60 x 59

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87 Bank Street, Rawtenstall, BB4 7QN 01706 216 305 Email: rawtenstall@simplyelectricals.co.uk 466 Halliwell Road, Bolton, Lancashire, BL1 8AN 01204 842 824 Email: bolton@simplyelectricals.co.uk

Open: Monday - Saturday 9.30am - 5.30pm. Closed Sundays

Come and View our Wide Range of Rise & Recline Chairs

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The Reflections Style

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Opening Times: Monday-Friday: 9am - 4.30pm Saturday: 10am - 3.30pm

Beautiful Design & Quality Service Phase Two Bedroom Design Ltd a family run business that has been established for almost 30 years.

Mark started the business as a time served joiner and has a wealth of knowledge within the bedroom industry. Both Mark and his wife Tracy pride themselves in the quality and service they provide in designing and suggesting a practical use of storage space.

All our designs and products are completely bespoke, to suite your needs. We believe that personal service and value for money are key to customer care, from the drawing up a plans right through. We are always on hand in our showroom on

Egerton st, Farnworth to help. It is here that you can come and view our displays and see the bedrooms, studies and Media rooms being manufactured.

With a team of dedicated staff to support the manufacturing and installation aspect of the journey a customer may experience with Phase Two Bedrooms. Staff that have worked for the company for a number of years, who also pride themselves in the end product.

We don’t need to give customers a sales pitch or offer any gimmicks for your custom. We just give genuine and honest advice knowing we will do our best to achieve your dream space a reality. Historically our business survives on reputation, word of mouth from delighted customers.

Contact us on:

Telephone: 01204 701211 | www.phasetwobedrooms.co.uk

Visit our showroom at:

Unit 3, Gladstone Court, Egerton Street, Farnworth, Bolton BL4 7EU

by staff. Many establishments also offer personal training sessions if you want one-to-one intense help.

Don’t worry that the gym will be full of lithe, young bodies and that you may feel self-conscious about your more mature shape. Most gyms these days are so inclusive there are a variety of ages and all shapes and sizes doing exactly what you’re doing and trying to improve their health.

When it comes to overall HEALTH, a New Year may offer a great opportunity for peace of mind when it comes to your health by investing in a private healthcare plan. There are so many these days that they suit every pocket, and health cover is offered on a wide variety of treatments as well as conditions to kickstart that feeling of confident wellbeing.

New Year, New You? Making New Year resolutions to improve our lives in 2015 is a typical reaction to what’s gone wrong in the old year and how we want to make a fresh start.

How many of us have resolved to really change things dramatically once we’ve finished a chorus of “Auld Lang Syne”?

So perhaps it’s time to stop making New Year resolutions and to action them and finally improve our lives.

You might want to tackle something minor about yourself, or you may be considering something lifechanging. The key here is planning and determination - and enlisting the help of experts in the relevant field.

For, while you can do much yourself to improve the way you live by using commonsense and a plan, there’s nothing like finding others who know what they’re doing to assist you in reaching your goal.

To improve your GENERAL LIFESTYLE, for example, there are counsellors around who can help you identify the areas for change that will make you feel happier. Look for those qualified by the CPCAB (Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body) and members of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) which maintains standards.

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If you’ve long been vowing to shed some WEIGHT, getting expert help is straightforward. Organisations like WeightWatchers and Slimming World not only work on accessible and practical weight-loss plans but also have groups all over the country. There are also private weight-loss experts and hypnotherapists who may be able to help you if you don’t want to be in a group situation.

Walk Your Way To A Healthier New You in 2015 Walking is an easy way to achieve the recommended two and half hours of moderate physical activity a week. You can do it in your own time, at a pace to suit you, and you don’t need any special equipment or gym membership. Just put on a pair of comfortable shoes and you’re good to go!

Walking is not only a great way to help manage your weight, but it can cut your risk of developing serious conditions, like heart disease, strokes, Type 2 diabetes and some cancers. It will reduce anxiety, help you sleep, improve your flexibility and the strength of your muscles, joints and bones, and reduce the risk of osteoporosis for women.

It may be less a matter of losing pounds than toning up the pounds you’ve got.

In that case, consider joining a GYM and getting an exercise plan created for you

Relaxation. Fishing is a great way to relax. Nestled amongst the hills of the West Pennine Moors, on the edge of the beautiful Rivington Country Park, lies one of the North’s premier fly waters.

This 200 year old reservoir is perfectly situated close to all the North’s major motorways.

The main reservoir is a 6 acre fly only water and is stocked with hard fighting, fully finned, triploid Rainbows, Blues and Goldies up to double figures. A smaller 1 acre coarse lake stocked with lots of Silver fish and Perch.

The over 65s can fish one fish (5 hours) for £18.00, pike fishing must be prebooked at £15 per two rods. Full details and prices can be found at www.curleysfishery.co.uk Sometimes, it’s not the drastic changes that make the difference but the small ones. And just having a change of HAIRSTYLE or colour may transform you and update your style.

Hairdressers these days are very knowledgeable, not just about styling but also about hair health and how to make the most of your locks whatever condition they are in. Products and colours also now come in a much wider range and are kinder to your hair. Take advantage of other services that many hairdressers offer now, like new nails.

Forget the old ideas of false nails: modern nails come in acrylic and gel in every colour imaginable, and patterned.

If your hairdresser doesn’t offer skin treatments, pop along to your local BEAUTY SALON for some pampering to revive the body and the spirit.

Having a regular, relaxing massage or treating yourself to skincare treatments that make you look glowing are an investment in the way you feel – and you will feel good!

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If your smile isn’t as bright or as even as you would like, DENTAL CARE today offers a startling range of firstclass services that not long ago only Hollywood celebrities could access.

Correcting crooked teeth, using implants to fill the gaps of missing teeth or just teeth whitening can brighten up your whole face, and prices for these treatments are now equally competitive.

The same applies to your EYES. You may have been putting up with inconvenient glasses for years, wishing to abandon them but worried about your limited sight. Eye care has come a long way these days and you will be surprised at what’s available on the high street.

Contact lenses provide the kind of freedom you never thought possible, and laser surgery offers many people lasting results and clear vision. Go along for a chat to your favourite ophthalmic store to see what is possible for you, and take a much happier look at the future.

If you’re desperate to improve your FASHION STYLE, building up a capsule wardrobe for work or play has never been easier. Even the cheapest labels pride themselves on being fashionable and usually boast several items in the same range. So, if you buy a well-cut jacket there will be a skirt, trousers and

even a dress to match that, teamed with different tops and accessories, provide several differing and dazzling looks for 2015.

If you want to spread that New Year resolutions’ feeling to your HOME, there are plenty of experts available to give sound advice. Going on a referral is often a good idea when it comes to large building projects, and it gives you the chance to see examples of your chosen tradesman’s work, too.

An extension, conservatory or orangerie can turn a small, unprepossessing house into a striking home, tailor-made for you and your needs. Take advice from architects and planners if a big

scheme is involved and listen to their suggestions, which probably come from a wealth of experience.

Or, if you just need to brighten up a room, call in a professional DECORATOR. Don’t rule out having your own interior designer to come up with clever ideas – they are not as expensive as you might think and can not only create beautiful rooms but can source attractive bargains for you as well.

And if you really do want a big change in where you live this year, consider MOVING house. Local estate agents and mortgage advisors understand the market – and they’re experts in making dreams come true!

Weekly DANCE and FITNESS ACTIVITIES Learning and Activities Centre At the Learning and Activities Centre, in the heart of Farnworth, we offer a warm, friendly and relaxing atmosphere for all our students and visitors, with a programme of quality learning, creative and exercise opportunities which enrich lives and certainly help keep the mind and body active. Rather than a ‘school for the over 50s’ it is a social centre, a meeting place where, through the medium of learning, new friendships can form and develop and existing groups find a warm, safe and fun place to meet.

Movement to Music

Tuesday

12.30-1.30

£2.50

Exercise to better health by raising your pulse rate to music for an hour or so under the watchful eyes of our qualified instructors.

Throughout the year we offered: a range of I.T. classes including Basic Computer Skills, use of the Internet, electronic communications to keep in touch with family and friends wherever they may be; Family History Research; Photo Restoration and Manipulation and 1-2-1 tutorials. Our music classes include keyboard lessons for all abilities, a guitar class, a mixed group for guitars and keyboards and the ever popular Golden Voices choir. Moving into the world of the Arts, our students have produced paintings in oil and water colour, drawings in pencil and charcoal and have used the centre as a base from which to organise trips to various art galleries. The craft classes create objects such as cards, book marks, jewellery boxes and decorative pictures from paper, card, cloth and lace. We also offer a number of fitness activities tailored for the over 50s including various movement to music classes all led by Age UK Bolton’s volunteer tutors and instructors. In addition we host a number of classes and events for partner organisations such as Bolton Council, The St. Johns Fellowship and Farnworth Little Theatre.

Tai Chi

Wednesday

2.00-3.00

£2.50

Golden Voices Choir

Thursday

11.00-12.30

£2.00

Movement to Music

Thursday

1.00-2.00

£2.50

Rite Weight Friday in association with GET ACTIVE

12.00-12.45

TEA DANCE – Open to all –

2.00-4.00

During the past year we offered a total of 828 places on IT, music, arts and crafts or exercise classes with an average 75% take up. With most classes running in three 12 week terms and lasting for 2 hours this equates to more than 11,280 hours of tuition. This amount of teaching and social activity would not be possible without the fantastic and dedicated team of volunteers who give their time, skills, talents and energies to make it an informative and enjoyable experience. This year we have been supported by 36 tutor, 9 reception and 5 catering volunteers. Age UK Bolton wishes to offer a sincere thank you to all the volunteers involved – without whose help none of this would be possible.

Friday

No Charge £2.50

Just turn up and enjoy. Have fun and meet new friends at the popular Friday afternoon Tea Dance. Join

in with regular Sequence Dances, and a few Ballroom, Line and Party Dances as well to get you back in step.Tea or coffee and biscuits in the interval are included.

Hobbies and Interests

We also run various hobbies and interest classes, including: Computers for Beginners; Lap Top and Tablet lessons; Family History Workshops; Art, drawing and water colour painting; mixed crafts and guitar and keyboard classes. Come along to learn a new skill or practice an old one in a warm and friendly environment. Just phone the centre, or call in, for details.

Looking to the future we intend to keep up the good work with the existing programme whilst offering more places and expanding the range of classes and activities available. We are keen to host more special events and one off help sessions to bring the community together. We believe that we have enjoyed a good year and are looking forward to the exciting challenge of having an even better one next year. So if you are over 50 and keen to make the most of life we look forward to welcoming you at our Learning and Activities Centre.

Age UK Bolton, Cross Street, Farnworth, Bolton BL4 7AG t: 01204 701525 www.ageukbolton.org.uk Registered charity number 223240

‘I love coming here, it keeps me going. Everybody is so friendly and at 90 I’m still learning new things.’

8 IDBB3048 Bolton Annual Report 2014.indd 8

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Syd, IT student.

03/10/2014 10:35

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Services and Activities

offer a range of services & activities for local over 50s: people living locally who feel that they would benefit from the social contact. These events provide the ideal opportunity for people to come together and enjoy afternoon tea with entertainment and the chance to socialise with friends, old and new. l

As we grow older we all face new challenges but that doesn’t stop us from wanting a fulfilling, independent later life. Age UK Bolton is passionate that everyone should have the opportunity to be able to make the most of their later life, whatever their circumstances, wants and needs. l

Befriending

The main aim of the befriending service is to give you and your befriending volunteer the opportunity to spend quality time together, doing things you enjoy doing.

This might involve going for a short walk, visiting a local coffee shop, having a look around the shops or simply relaxing and chatting at home. You decide how you want to spend this time.

We are happy to receive enquiries and referrals from: older people themselves or from their carers/families, GP’s, Practice Nurses and Social Workers. However we will only accept referrals with the consent of the person being referred.

Afternoon Teas and Lunch and Leisure Clubs l

Another service we provide that is vital in tackling loneliness and social isolation is our popular afternoon teas and lunch and leisure clubs network.

Monthly afternoon teas, held at our Learning and Activities Centre in Farnworth and Longsight Lodge in Harwood, were originally set up to benefit the older people who were involved with our befriending service by enabling them to meet other like-minded people. We have, however, now extended the invitation to older www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Information and Advice

The Information and Advice Service provides free and impartial advice on a wide range of issues to older people in Bolton. We advise on many topics including benefits and other money matters, housing issues, health and social care and access to leisure and social activities.

In partnership with Bolton Law Society, we offer a weekly legal advice service and last year 60 people took advantage of these appointments and as a result were able to resolve their queries at no cost to themselves.

In addition, also in partnership with Bolton Law Society, we offer a weekly will making service at a specially negotiated rate. 184 wills were produced giving older people the satisfaction and peace of mind that they had made arrangements which may ease the situation for their relatives at a difficult time.

Other Services and Activities l

‘Handyman’ Service - affordable help with decorating, gardening and small repairs.

l Active Ageing/Healthy Lifestyles - Community based activities such as health talks and exercise classes. l Campaigning and Influencing - Working with, and on behalf of, older people on issues that matter to them. l

l

l

l

Courses and Activities - A range of dance, fitness, arts, music, IT and other learning opportunities at our Learning and Activities Centre in Farnworth.

Leisure Activities - Walking clubs, chair-based exercise, yoga, Tai-chi dance and fitness classes.

Room Hire - Competitive rates for single bookings and regular hire at our centre in Farnworth.

Wheelchair Hire - Maximum 3 weeks loan period. £10 deposit (returnable). No hire charge but we invite donations to support our work.

Age UK Bolton The Bolton Hub Bold Street Bolton BL1 1LS t: 01204 382411 or

Cross Street Farnworth Bolton BL4 7AG t: 01204 701525

www.ageukbolton.org.uk

Registered charity number 223240 29

TOP TIPS FOR LOSING WEIGHT AND STAYING HEALTHY

LADIES ONLY

All ages and fitness levels welcome We don’t use gimmicks, we have no magic wand or wonder cures. We do have the equipment, the know how and lots of happy members.

1. Never Diet! Eat Healthy...

That is the key Diet = Failure FACT 2. Don’t skip breakfast Research shows eating breakfast helps you control your weight. Some people skip breakfast because they think it will help them lose weight, but missing meals doesn’t help us lose weight and isn’t good for us as we can miss out on essential nutrients. It could also encourage us to snack more throughout the day because you feel hungry.

3. Eat plenty of fruit and veg Fruit and veg are low in calories and fat, and high in fibre three essential ingredients for successful weight loss. They also contain plenty of vitamins and minerals.

4. Get more active Studies show regular activity is key to losing weight and keeping it off. As well as providing numerous health benefits, exercise can help burn off the excess calories you can’t cut through with diet alone. Find an activity you enjoy and are able to fit into your routine.

Guaranteed inch and weight loss with our Healthy Eating and Exercise Programme The Motorcise Week includes: l No lycra, no men, no loud music l Healthy eating plan l Weekly weigh-ins l Personalised programmes available for inch & weight loss l Unique motorised exercise machines to make shaping up easier l Three to four 30 minute exercise sessions per week l Relaxing coffee lounge to meet new friends MEMBERSHIP l Social events through the year st arts from just l Friendly, personal attention on every visit l Mature, highly trained staff.

Hairdresser/Beautician/Chiropodist open to non members

£28

per month

BOOK A FREE GUEST VISIT! Motorcise Health Living Centre 01204 384444 The Basement, The Wellsprings, Civic Square, Le Mans Crescent Bolton BL1 1UA.

(ONLY 5 MINS FROM BUS & TRAIN STATIONS)

www.motorcise-bolton.co.uk

FREE GUEST PASS, plus February visitors will be entered into a Free Prize draw to WIN 3 Months Membership Call and reserve your place 01204 384444 or simply come in and see us today at Motorcise Healthy Living Centre The Basement, The Wellsprings, Civic Square, Le Mans Crescent, Bolton BL1 1UA.

Name:................................................................................................

Address: ...........................................................................................

5. Drink plenty of water People sometimes confuse thirst with hunger. You can end up consuming extra calories when a glass of water is really what you need. You should aim to drink about six to eight glasses (1.2 litres) of fluid, preferably water, every day - or more it it’s warm or you’re exercising.

6. Eat high-fibre foods Foods containing lots of fibre will keep you feeling full for longer, which is perfect for losing weight. Fibre is only found in food from plants, such as fruit and veg, oats, wholegrain bread, brown rice and pasta, and beans, peas and lentils.

7. Use a smaller plate Studies show people who use smaller plates tend to eat smaller portions and are still satisfied. By using smaller plates and bowls, you may be able to gradually get used to eating smaller portions without going hungry. It takes about 29 minutes for the stomach to tell the brain it’s full, so eat slowing and stop eating before you feel full.

8. Don’t ban foods Don’t ban any foods from your weight loss plan, especially the ones you like. Banning foods will only make you crave them more. There’s no reason you can’t enjoy the occasional treat as long as you stay within your daily calorie allowance.

9. Don’t stock junk food To avoid temptation, avoid stocking junk food, such as chocolate, biscuits, crisps and sweet fizzy drinks at home.

Instead, stock up on healthy snacks, such as fruit, unsalted rice cakes, oat cakes, unsalted or unsweetened popcorn and fruit juice.

10. Cut down on alcohol Did you know a standard glass of wine can contain as many calories as a piece of chocolate and a pint of lager has about the same calorie count as a packet of crisps? Over time, drinking too much can easily contribute to weight gain. Find out more about the calories in alcohol. However if you like a drop or two, chose a white spirit with low cal spritzer.

Tel No:................................................................................................

30

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OPEN

FREE ENTRY AND PARKING

The Farmers Market & Craft Centre

TUES - SAT 10AM-5PM SUN 10.30AM - 4.30PM & BANK HOLIDAYS

at Heskin Hall Estate

5 MINS FROM J27 M6, 2 MINS FROM CHARNOCK RICHARD SERVICES

Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 5PA • 07599 831907 • www.heskinfarmersmarket.co.uk

FOOD HALL ~ CRAFTS ~ ANTIQUES ~ TEA ROOM

Relax, dine and shop at Heskin Hall Estate Over 40 shops and businesses including: leading art gallery, high quality butchers, florist and plant centre, craft studios, food shops, ladies & gents clothing, gifts with a difference, handbags and jewellery, childrens clothing & toys, hair & beauty, furniture, fredericks ice cream, Hoggs of Fife Country Clothing, Ladybird Lounge Craft Cafe and much more…

The Two Birds Tea Room

Check out our website for news, upcoming events, and much more.

Why not relax and enjoy our freshly made paninis, toasties, sandwiches, soups and salads made using our fresh local produce. Summer specials and Sangria now available.

Heskin Hall Free Range Butchers www.heskinfarmersmarket.co.uk We have a wide range of high quality meats and products including beef,

lamb, pork, chicken, turkey, venison, water buffalo and selection of game.

Try our freshly made quality sausages, tasty meat balls, beef burgers, buffalo burgers and stir-fries.

Our beef and lamb comes from our own free range herds, 100% grass fed, producing the highest quality meats and the very best natural flavour.

All of our other meats and products are also carefully sourced from free range farms and producers.

Bracken Country Clothing A wide range of top quality country wear for both men and women at discounted prices.

All sizes available in a wide range of colours.

From agricultural use or just for the man or woman who loves the feel and look of the country side.

Orders are welcomed and if we don’t have your desired item in stock arrangements can be made to have the item delivered within 5 working days!

Units available, email: info@heskinfarmersmarket.co.uk

TEN YEARS YOUNGER Same day tooth implants have given Viv Burton a new smile, revived confidence and a new youthful radiance

A

visit to the dentist has transformed the life of Lancashire businesswoman Viv Burton. But her dentist is no ordinary dentist — it is Douglas Lee Dental Associates a leading UK centre of excellence for the revolutionary ‘Fast and Fixed’ procedure for same-day implants.

Because she was fearful and nervous of dental treatment, fashion store owner Viv hated going to the dentist and as a result had lost her lower teeth and had endured ill-fitting dentures for many years.

Her upper teeth were crooked and her gums were also in poor shape — as was her confidence, which had gradually been eroded.

“Because I was conscious of my teeth I had a habit

32

of putting my hand over my mouth. I was just so frightened of going to the dentist but Douglas Lee Dental Associates have changed that. I cannot praise them enough —I actually look forward to going to see them as it’s not like a dentists at all!”

After reading about Douglas Lee and the ‘Fast and Fixed’ same day implant procedure Viv plucked up courage and booked an appointment.

Other dentists had advised Vivienne that her top teeth would have to be removed and replaced with dentures, which she was desperate to avoid as she already disliked having the lower denture.

The first thing implant expert Dougie Lee did was explain what would be necessary and that it would be pain free, which gave Viv much-needed confidence.

She was also told her upper gums needed treatment to get them back in shape ready for a full upper arch implant procedure.

I CAN’T BELIEVE THE CONFIDENCE IT HAS GIVEN ME. I CAN HONESTLY SAY IT IS THE BEST INVESTMENT I HAVE EVER MADE! Since Douglas Lee Dental Associates adopted the ‘Fast and Fixed’ same day technique, which originated in Germany, they have become a flagship practice that is used to teach the procedure.

“To become a teaching surgery for ‘Fast and Fixed’ is a real compliment — it is a massive boost to us and it gives us the chance to show other dentists what can be achieved with this technique,” says Dougie.

Testament to their high level of skills, Douglas Lee Dental Associates were the first team in the UK to carry out a full set of upper and lower jaw implants within a day using the `Fast and Fixed’ technique.

“No-one wants to lose their teeth but sometimes, despite everyone’s best efforts, teeth

fail and we previously had to resort to prosthetics like removable dentures. Dental implants are a wonderful improvement on them but until recently there had been no affordable or convenient way of using them to support a whole jaw, with ‘Fast and Fixed’, there is.

“It used to be taught that when implants are planned to restore a full jaw the surgery is staged. Typically, separate appointments are needed for X-rays and CT scans, tooth extractions, bone grafts, implant placements, impression taking and finally fitting the new teeth — it can take over 12 months and cost a small fortune.”

Preparation is key to the success and the team of dental nurses, cosmetic dentists, dental technicians and Dougie himself, all play their part on the day.

Viv opted for full upper arch implants and on the day of her procedure she arrived at the Accrington surgery full of confidence as she had become familiar with the experienced and friendly

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BEFORE team during previous visits preparing for the surgery.

“I had every faith in the team at Dougie’s,” recalls Viv, who has just returned from a business trip to London.

“While I was away I told some people what I had done and they said my smile now looks amazing, they were very complimentary.”

At his state-of-the-art surgery in Accrington Dougie has all the latest technology, equipment and skills required to carry out `Fast and Fixed’ same day implant tooth replacement.

Patients scheduled for ‘Fast and Fixed’ treatment are settled into their private ensuite day room, complete with a day-bed and sofa. A Cone Beam CT scan is taken if not done so already. Generally, patients opt to be sedated so the procedure is anxiety free and absolutely painless.

AFTER With the patient completely relaxed, the damaged and infected teeth are removed as gently as possible. The implant sites need to be free of germs so the `Helbo’ revolutionary and completely painless laser, is used to eradicate over 99 per cent of all dangerous bacteria, with the help of a marker dye to identify problem areas. This allows implants to be placed immediately, usually six in the upper and four in the lower jaws.

Typically in less than three hours the surgery is complete —the patient has felt no pain and more or less dozed through all of it.

WE ARE VERY MUCH AHEAD OF THE GAME IN THIS. IT IS A MULTI-SKILLED PROCEDURE AND WE HAVE ALL THE RIGHT PROFESSIONALS ON OUR TEAM

The new teeth are then custom-made by Mark Roach, the practice’s on-site dental technician, while throughout the rest of the day, the patient relaxes in their day-suite, their every need attended to by personal care-nurses. By about 6pm the new teeth are ready and the happy patient can go home and enjoy their brand new smile!

Besides minor swelling and bruising similar to that from simple tooth extractions, Dougie’s patients recover quickly and with few problems.

“It is an extremely choreographed day where each professional plays their part,” explains Dougie. “We are very much ahead of the game in this. It is a multiskilled procedure and we have all the right professionals on our team.”

In Viv’s case, she was so delighted with the results in her upper jaw that only a week later she returned without a qualm to have full lower arch implants, enabling her to abandon dentures forever!

“I can’t believe the confidence it has given me,” she said. “I can honestly say it is the best investment I have ever made!”

When implants are carried out the experts at Douglas Lee take into account facial contours, so Viv’s bright new smile shines through making her look years younger: “I couldn’t be happier with the result!”

Douglas Lee A S S O C I A T E S Douglas Lee FINALIST Dental Associates 115 Whalley Road Accrington BB5 1BX 01254 237517 2014

hello@douglasleedental.co.uk www.douglasleedental.co.uk

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

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ARE YOU READY TO BECOME A GRANDPARENT? The role and demands on grandparents are changing because of new socioeconomic pressures, so whilst you’re immersed in the anticipation and excitement of the new arrival, unexpected friction and conflict can often occur if you’re not prepared, according to cognitive psychologist Dr Lynda Shaw.

“The role of the grandparents is ever changing. Baby boomer grandparents may take on a huge chunk of the childcare responsibilities whilst mums return to work, whether it’s doing the school run, helping when the children are ill or stepping in to lend a hand during the school holidays. This is not new in society. But now and in the near future the sandwich generation will find themselves still working well into their sixties, both because they can and financially they have to, as well as looking after elderly parents.

Therefore, like never before they can’t or will struggle to take on the caregiver grandparent role too.”

Although today’s society plays huge part in the role of the grandparent, psychology theory of grand-parenting is important too. German-born American psychologist, Erik Erikson developed the Generativity versus Stagnation theory, which is typically associated with people who have reached midlife but who instinctively long to create a nurturing environment to support the development and growth of the next generation. For grandparents, they may view this time as a second chance to create a positive impact, a living legacy in the lives of their grandchildren through love and guidance with a hope that they can

make a difference. Stagnation refers to those who find it difficult to contribute positively and who perhaps lack the ability to be involved and connect with others.

There are different sorts of grandparenting personalities. Leading gerontologist Bernice Neugarten identified the core five patterns of grand-parenting as:1. Formal grandparent: follows what are believed to be the appropriate guidelines for the grand-parenting role including occasional services and maintaining an interest, but not being overly involved.

2. Fun seeker: primarily provides entertainment for the grandchild.

3. Surrogate parent: takes over the caretaking role for the child.

4. Reservoir of family wisdom: the head of the family who dispenses advice but also controls the parent generation.

5. Distant figure: has infrequent contact with the grandchildren, perhaps appearing on special occasions.

Ultimately having a baby is not just one of the greatest milestones for the parents themselves, but it is of huge significance for grandparents.

Shaw says: “Having had many years raising their own children, adjusting to ‘grandparent’ status can take a little while and unfortunately, it’s not always a bed of roses. Having already raised children of their own, grandparents are keen to pass on their knowledge and wisdom, but persistent advice and opinion are not always well received.

New parents ultimately want the time and space to figure things out for themselves and to be the key decision

makers and not be told how it should or shouldn’t be done.

“By contrast, less confident parents can also become too dependent with help at hand and rely entirely on the grandparents for support, leaving them feeling unappreciated and taken for granted. Situations such as these can become awkward for both parties and if the ground rules are not set from the word go, this can lead to a fractured and unhappy relationship in the long run. A huge number of factors are involved in successful grandparenting.” www.drlyndashaw.com 5 Top Tips for Expecting Grandparents: 1. Spoiling Them The job of a grandparent is all about the really good bits - shower them with as much love as possible, fun and enduring memories instead of mountains of gifts.

2. Two Hands Are Better Than One Looking after a new baby is all consuming and needs round the clock care and attention. Make yourself useful by offering to cook, do some household chores or run some errands.

Your contribution is guaranteed to bring much relief and will be appreciate.

3. Give Them Space As exciting as it is that you want to be a hands-on grandparent, it’s really important to be led by the parents and not to assume that they are always going to want your help. More often than not, new parents like to work things out for themselves and will ask for help when needed.

4. Don’t Be Judgmental It’s easy to voice your opinion especially when it’s something you disagree with such as an obscure name you dislike or sleeping arrangements with their baby. Whatever the circumstance may be, he or she is after all their child and not yours. Go with the flow and best to keep your feelings to yourself.

5. The Perfect Bond We’ve all heard funny stories of babies crying uncontrollably when being held by certain people. If you’re a grandparent and this happens to you, do not fret! Persevere with it – it takes time for babies to get used to people other than mum and dad.

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£129

(5 Days Dinner, Bed & Breakfast) ALL HOTELS

The Imperial Hotel is located just a stone's throw away from the promenade and bandstand, this grand Victorian hotel is full of character and home to a number of spacious, comfortable bedrooms, all accessible via lifts.

5 Days Includes 2 Excursions: ● Battle, Tenterden & Rye ● Worthing and Brighton.

7 Days Includes 2 Excursions: ● Battle, Tenterden & Rye ● Hever Castle.

Situated in a premier location with an idyllic seaside position, the charming, well-appointed Ocean View Hotel boasts uninterrupted panoramic views across Sandown Bay. 5 Days Includes 2 Excursions: ● Island Tour ● Amazon World and Cowes.

7 Days Includes 2 Excursions: ● Island Tour ● Ryde and The Isle of Wight Steam Railway.

If you're looking to unwind in style, this elegant Georgian hotel is the place to stay. Located in the grounds of the former Torre Abbey with stunning views of the bay, the Abbey Lawn Hotel offers an exceptional standard of comfort throughout.

5 Days Includes 2 Excursions: ● Full Day Excursion to Plymouth ● Teignmouth, Dawlish and Exeter.

7 Days Includes 2 Excursions: ● Dartmoor & Totnes ● Plymouth with Naval Harbour Cruise.

09 Mar £139

08 Apr

£179

16 Mar £139

13 Apr

£189

23 Mar £145

20 Apr

£199

30 Mar £159

26 Apr

£199

03 Apr

£169

(7 Days Dinner, Bed & Breakfast) ALL HOTELS

30 Mar £219 05 Apr

£229

12 Apr

£249

19 Apr

£259

26 Apr

£279

03 May £319

Book with confidence, you will only pay the lowest advertised price on any of the above departures ... That's our Guarantee.

Freephone: 0800 083 9900 Visit us online at www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk

Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP.

IMPERIAL HOTEL POSTCARD.indd 11

19/12/2014 09:58

WIN A £250 HOLIDAY VOUCHER

WITH DOOR TO DOOR COACH HOLIDAYS Door to Door Coach Holidays is part of the UK Holiday Group, one of Britain’s most successful holiday companies. We have been operating the very best holidays in Britain for over 30 years with more than 100,000 holidaymakers joining us every year.

Unlike many other coach holidays, we pick you up from your home address at the start of your holiday and drop you safely home on your return. We even treat you to a

• • • • • • •

Door to Door chauffeur service Refreshments after collection from home Reserved seats on your tour coach Complete luggage handling No single room supplements on any UK mainland holiday.

Dinner, bed & breakfast Sightseeing excursions

For a copy of our 2015 holiday brochure

call 0844 22 517 23 (low cost local rate) or visit

www.doortodoorcoachholidays.com www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

For your chance to win a £250 Holiday Voucher which can be redeemed against any Door to Door Coach Holiday in 2015, simply answer the following question:

You can be assured of the very best value for money too, with prices starting from just £99! Our featured hotels are tried, tested and inspected, and the sightseeing itineraries take in the best that each area has to offer.

Name:___________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________

In which National Park will you find the ‘Ffestiniog Railway?’

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A - Snowdonia  B - Norfolk Broads  C - New Forest 

Postcode:_________________________________________ Please Tick Appropriate Box

________________________________________________

Tel:______________________________________________ Email:____________________________________________

Post your entry to 50 Plus Magazine, McGrath Media, 6th Floor, 120 Bark Street, Bolton BL1 2AX

TERMS & CONDITIONS

All Door to Door Coach Holidays include:

nice cup of tea or coffee, just before you board your coach! With Door to Door Coach Holidays you can relax, content in the knowledge that everything has been taken care of, from start to finish.

1. The winner will receive a £250 holiday voucher to spend on a Door to Door Coach Holiday.

2. The holiday must be taken before 31st December 2015.

3. All holidays are subject to availability and Door to Door Coach Holidays' booking terms and conditions.

4. The prize is non refundable and non-transferable, and no cash alternative will be offered.

5. Transport is included from the following postcode areas: BL, M, OL, SK and WA. If the winner is outside these postcode areas, they can join at resort, travel to

the tour coach departure point or it may be possible to collect them from outside the postcode pick-up areas and Door to Door Coach Holidays will advise of any additional cost. For a full list of pick-up locations please see www.doortodoorcoachholidays.com or the 2015 brochure.

6. No expenses in relation to the prize are covered.

7. The closing date for entries is midnight 30th April 2015.

8. The winner will be selected at random from valid entries 9. Only 1 entry per person.

Door to Door Coach Holidays may wish to contact you about special offers, products or services by post. Please tick this box if you do not wish to receive these details 

35

FOOD AND DRINK THE HAIRY DIETERS EAT FOR LIFE "We've cooked the recipes in our first book over and over, and they've become much loved standards in our kitchens, along with our other favourite dishes. We enjoy them so much that, like you, we wanted, more so now we've come up with some new ones that we hope you're going to like just as much."

ALL-IN-ONE SPICY PORK AND RICE 395 calories per portion Lean, tender pork with spicy rice and lots of veggies - what more could you want? This is a scrumptiously simple family supper with big flavours that fulfils all your needs. Only problem is stopping yourself eating too much of it!

Heat the oil in a large, non-stick deep frying pan or sautÊ pan. Fry the onion wedges over a medium heat for 3 minutes until they’re softened and lightly browned, stirring regularly.

Season the pork with salt and black pepper, then add it to the pan and stir-fry with the onion for 2 minutes until lightly browned. Add the chorizo, garlic, peppers and beans and stir-fry together for 2 minutes more. Sprinkle with the spices and stir in the rice, then pour over the stock and bring to the boil.

Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, stirring regularly, until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice and pork are both lovely and tender.

Serves 4 Prep: 15 minutes Cooking time: about 30 minutes 2 tsp olive oil 1 medium onion, sliced into thin wedges 500g pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1 cm slices 50g chorizo sausage, skinned and cut into 5mm slices 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1 red and 1 orange pepper, deseeded and sliced 100g green beans, trimmed and cut into short lengths 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander 1/2 tsp hot chilli powder 150g easy-cook long-grain rice 750ml chicken stock, made with 1 stock cube flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper.

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A BIG SOUP 157 calories per portion A big soup to make you smaller, this is a tasty wholesome lunch on a cold day. Add a tablespoon of half-fat crème fraiche and a sprinkling of paprika for a guilt-free garnish that adds only 25 calories more per portion.

Your perfect recipe needs top quality ingredients...

Heat the oil in a large nonstick saucepan or a big flameporof casserole dish.

Add the onion and garlic and fry gently for 5 minutes until softened but not coloured, stirring often. While the onion is frying, peel the carrots and slice them into rough 1.5cm chunks. Trim the green beans and cut them into pieces about 3cm long.

Add the chorizo, paprika and carrots to the pan with the sliced onion and cook over a low heat for 2 minutes, stirring until the chorizo begins to release its fat. Season with salt and lots of black pepper. Tip the tomatoes into the same pan, add the stock and sugar, then turn the heat up to medium.

Bring the liquid to the boil. Reduce the heat slightly and leave the soup to simmer for 12 minutes. Add the canned and fresh beans and the kale and bring it back to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10 minutes until all the vegetables are just tender, adding a little extra water if the soup is looking too thick. Season the soup with salt and black pepper and serve in deep bowls.

Serves 6 Prep: 15 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes 1 tbsp sunflower oil 1 medium onion, finely sliced 3 garlic cloves, finely sliced 3 medium carrots 150g green beans 75g chorizo sausage, skinned and cut into 1cm slices 1 tsp hot smoked paprika 1/2 tsp flaked sea salt, plus extra to season 400g can of chopped tomatoes 1.4 litres chicken stock, fresh or made with 1 stock cube 1 tsp caster sugar 400g can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained 150g curly kale, thickly shredded freshly ground black pepper.

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Bury Market, winner of BBC Radio 4’s Food and Farming Awards (Best Food Market) really has it all.

With over 350 stalls open every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday you will find our friendly traders sell everything you need for making delicious home-cooked meals.

Great quality produce at great value prices, brought fresh to market every day!

Bury Market Tel: 0161 253 6520

: @BuryMarket

Email: burymarkets@bury.gov.uk Web: www.burymarket.com

37

FOOD AND DRINK

THAI BEEF SALAD 239 calories per person (if serving 2); 159 calories per portion (if serving 3) The Kingy and I both love this salad. It’s full of fresh, soaring flavours and plenty of heat, but if you don’t like your food too spicy, leave out the chilli or deseed it before slicing. Make sure you wash your hands really well after handling the chilli! You can make this with chicken or fish too.

Trim off any visible fat from the steak and season it with salt and lots of freshly ground black pepper. Heat the oil in a small non- stick frying pan and fry the steak over a high heat for 11/2 minutes on each side until nicely browned. Leave it to rest on a board while you prepare the veg.

Use a vegetable peeler to peel the carrots into thin ribbons, turning regularly. Cut the cucumber in half lengthways and scoop out the seeds with a teaspoon, then cut the cucumber into slices of about 5mm. Finely slice the shallot. Trim the pepper at both ends and cut it into thin strips. Put all the vegetables in a bowl, then strip the leaves off the herbs, tearing any large leaves in half, and scatter them on top.

To make the dressing, put all the ingredients in a small blow and whisk until well combined. Cut the steak into slices about 4mm thick and add them to the salad. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss lightly and serve.

Serves 2-3 Prep: 20 minutes Cooking time: 3 minutes 1 lean sirloin or rump steak (1.5cm thick) 1 tsp sunflower oil 2 medium carrots, peeled 1/2 small cucumber 1 long shallot or 2 small shallots, trimmed 1 small red pepper, deseeded 25g bunch of fresh coriander 25g bunch of fresh mint flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper Dressing 1 tbsp nam pla (Thai fish sauce) 1 tbsp light brown soft sugar 1 tbsp fresh lime juice 1 red or green bird’s eye chilli, trimmed and very finely sliced.

38

FIVE-MINUTE PIZZA 250 calories per pizza Our super-quick pizza is based on a tortilla wrap instead of pizza dough, which makes it lower in calories and fast to prepare - a pizz-a genius! We like to add some pitted olives to our pizza before grilling but don't forget that every 15 grams of olives ups the calorie count by 15.

Preheat the grill to its hottest setting. Place the tortilla on a baking sheet and spread with the passata, leaving a 2cm gap around the edge.

Tear the ham into strips and arrange them on top of the tortilla. Sprinkle with the oregano and then the grated Cheddar. Season with black pepper.

Toss the rocket or salad leaves with olive oil and a dribble of balsamic vinegar if you like. Put to one side.

Place the pizza under the grill and cook for about 11/2 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the edges of the pizza are beginning to brown. Watch carefully so it doesn't burn! Slide the pizza on to a board or a warmed plate, top with the salad and serve immediately.

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FRESH FRUIT TRIFLES 239 calories per portion These stunning little puds are a doddle to make and feel like a real treat. No one will guess that they contain under 250 calories per portion - a sensation on the lips but a mere trifle on the hips.

You’ll need 6 glass dessert dishes for this; each one needs to hold about 250ml. You can also make the trifle in a large bowl, but it will take a little longer to set. Break the sponge fingers in half and place them in the base of each dish.

Drizzle with a little sherry if you like.

Dissolve the jelly crystals in 300ml just-boiled water in a large jug according to the packet instructions. As soon as they have dissolved, stir in the 600ml of cold water.

Hull the strawberries and cut them in half or into quarters if they are very large. Scatter the strawberries over the sponge fingers. Pour the jelly slowly over the broken sponge fingers and strawberries until they are evenly covered. Cover the dishes with cling film and chill in the fridge for 3-4 hours or until the jellies are set.

Take the dishes out of the fridge and remove the cling film.

Spoon the custard on top of each jelly without taking it right to the sides.

Put the cream in a bowl and whisk with electric beaters until soft peaks form. Try not to overwhip the cream - it’s ready when it looks like soft, billowing clouds. Add a large spoonful of the whipped cream to each trifle, placing it on top of the custard. Decorate the trifles with fresh raspberries, blueberries and a few fresh mint leaves.

These keep well in the fridge so you can make them up to 2 days before serving ideal if you’re planning a party.

Makes 1 pizza (serves 1) Prep: 31/2 minutes Cooking time: 11/2 minutes 1 large flour tortilla wrap 3 tbsp passata with basil 20g wafer-thin ham (a couple of slices) 2 good pinches of dried oregano 20g half-fat Cheddar cheese, finely grated small handful of rocket or baby salad leaves 1/2 tsp extra virgin olive oil 1/2 tsp good balsamic vinegar (optional) olives in brine (optional) freshly ground black pepper.

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Serves 6 Prep: 15 minutes plus setting time 12 sponge fingers (about 75g) 3 tbsp sweet sherry (optional) 2 x sachets (23g) of raspberry flavour sugar-free jelly crystals 300ml just-boiled water 600ml cold water 200g fresh strawberries 300ml low-fat ready-made custard, preferably fresh 125ml double cream 100g fresh raspberries 100g fresh blueberries fresh mint leaves to decorate.

39

EATING OUT

THE VICTORIA INN - FANNY’S A local pub serving real ale, fine wine and good food in a traditional way.

Try British classics like fish and chips, steak and ale pudding or our famous fish finger butty. Or why not try something different from our specials menu? Which includes our Senior Citizens Special for £5.95.

Come and join us for a scrumptious meal off our recently updated menu, maybe try our local favourite “The Heaton Swinger”, alternatively come and unwind in our Cocktail bar and enjoy a Cocktail or three!!

Our new lounge bar is available for small functions including funerals, christenings and birthday celebrations.

Bookings are now being taken for Mothers Day Sunday 15th March and Easter Sunday - 5th April.

Like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, visit us at www.victoriainn.co and keep up to date with our forthcoming events. Our business is your pleasure.

TEL: 01204 849944 WWW.VICTORIAINN.CO MARKLAND HILL, BOLTON BL1 5AG

/VictoriaInnFannys /FannysBolton

Curley’s Dining Room is a little piece of heaven right in the heart of Horwich and is set in a picturesque corner of the idyllic countryside on the banks of the Wallsuches Reservoir.

A perfect place close to Bolton for traditional home cooked food, freshly prepared daily on the premises.

!

£5 OFF A MEAL FOR TWO MON - THURS 5pm - 7.30pm*

*Only one voucher per visit may be used.

Main course value must be a minimum of £7.95 each.

WALLSUCHES, OFF CHORLEY OLD RD, HORWICH, BOLTON, LANCS, BL6 6PP

We offer separate lunch and evening menus plus daily specials. We are renowned for our breakfasts and our award winning fish, chips and peas (gluten free batter available) and to compliment our menu there is also a selection of wines, real ales and draft beers.

Cakes, fresh coffee and a selection of teas are also available daily.

Senior Citizens Special Fish, Chips & Peas or Homemade Pie, Chips & Peas including Tea or Coffee ONLY £6.95.

The Ivy Room is our function room for up to 30 people and is perfect for all gatherings, celebrations of life, christenings and business meetings. The Ivy Room includes private patio area, free Wi-Fi. A brochure is available with buffet options.

Opening hours: 9am - 8.30pm (7 days) last food order 7.30pm.

WALLSUCHES, OFF CHORLEY OLD RD, HORWICH, BOLTON, LANCS, BL6 6PP T: 01204 691783 WEB: WWW.CURLEYSDININGROOMS.CO.UK

EATING OUT

THE CHERRY TREE AT BLACKROD The Cherry Tree at Blackrod specialises in an unpretentious style of classic British cooking with an emphasis on using seasonal produce sourced as locally as possible. The team of chef’s are constantly striving to produce new and innovative dishes and an ever changing style of menu.

The New Spring Menu is already proving to be a real hit with customers as several more incredibly tasty dishes have been introduced to capture the season. With Mother’s Day and Eastertime almost upon us this would be a perfect opportunity to reserve your table and enjoy all the Cherry Tree has to offer. All the Cherry Tree menus are available to view online so book early to avoid missing out at this special time of year.

Monday to Friday & Saturday lunchtimes they offer their ‘Lighter Bite Menu’ which changes on a daily basis. This menu is a real favourite with diners and is designed for those people who no longer have a full appetite or for those who are simply looking for a lighter option.

Sunday Lunch: On Sundays they offer their Sunday Lunch menu alongside the main a la carte and specials menu. Be sure to expect tender sirloin of beef with all the trimmings and everyone’s favourite Yorkshire puddings. Why not bring the little ones with you and enjoy a nice family meal here too.

The Cherry Tree at Blackrod guarantees everyone a warm welcome and dining experience to remember. The restaurant & bar manager is Tom Taylor and as the former head chef his knowledge and expertise is available when helping to choose your meal.

OPENING TIMES: Mon – Fri: Lunch 12.00pm – 2.00pm & Evenings 5.30pm – 9.00pm.

Sat & Sun: Open all Day 12.00pm – 9.00pm.

FOR RESERVATIONS: TELEPHONE 01257 481234 EMAIL: INFO@CHERRYTREEBLACKROD.CO.UK ADDRESS: THE CHERRY TREE, CHORLEY RD, BLACKROD, BOLTON BL6 5LA WEBSITE: WWW.CHERRYTREEBLACKROD.CO.UK

GRAPPA @ THE CROFTERS BAR - RESTAURANT, BRADSHAW

Delicious, healthy, affordable and fresh food for you and your family with roaring log fires to compliment the transformation of Grappa Restaurant at the Crofters, you are always sure of a warm welcome.

Mature, sleek and sassy are but a few words to describe this old favourite.

Head Chef Mukesh has over 25 years experience and only uses natural fresh ingredients that are sourced locally with something for everyone from our extensive and varied menu.

From Aberdeen Angus Fillet, Sirloin and Ribeye Steak, Pan Fried Sea Bass, alongside pizza and pasta favourites we also have a specials board changed daily and children’s menu.Our friendly staff will help you find the meal you want!

We also run regular offers for example: l Mon - Thurs 12- 9pm choose any starter and pizza or pasta dish for only £9.95 l

Our popular afternoon tea at Grappa with unlimited tea and coffee for only £6.95 is a firm favourite and use the voucher for 2 for 1.

l

Why not try our Sunday Lunch with 2 courses at £11.95 or 3 at £13.95 with favourites like Roast Beef, Lamb Shanks and a selections of desserts to choose from.

Be sure to add us on Facebook to keep up to date on all of our great offers and events!

01204 594386 103 Bradshaw Road, Bolton, BL2 3EW www.thecrofters-bradshaw.com

www.facebook.com/croftersarmsbradshaw

Includes unlimited teas & coffees for £6.95 for two people with this voucher. Please call to book in advance. Valid until 30.4.15

SM RESTAURANTS

SM RESTAURANTS

Heskin Farmers Market & Craft Centre

Over 40 shops and businesses including: leading art gallery, high quality butchers, florist and plant centre, food shops, ladies & gents clothing, gifts with a difference, handbags and jewellery, children’s clothing & toys, hair & beauty, furniture, Fredericks ice cream, the Crafty Potter Craft Studio and much more...

Why not relax and enjoy our freshly made paninis, toasties, sandwiches, soups and salads made using our fresh local produce. Winter Specials including our signature dish Water Buffalo Casserole now available.

Heskin Barns refurbishment underway New units available from the end of February.

Crafty Potter CafĂŠ and Brides Gallery still open for business during alterations.

OUT & ABOUT

BRITAIN’S BIGGEST PLAYWRITING COMPETITION OPEN FOR ENTRIES EXHIBITION OF NEW PHOTOGRAPHS OF BRITISH PLAYWRIGHTS COMMISSIONED TO MARK 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PRIZE 2013 BRUNTWOOD PRIZE WINNER PREMIERES AT ROYAL EXCHANGE, MANCHESTER The 2015 Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting opens its 10th anniversary competition today. Writers of all levels of experience are invited to enter plays, which must be original, unperformed and unproduced. The winner will receive a prize of £16,000 and a full production of their play at the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester. The competition is a unique partnership between the Royal Exchange Theatre and property company Bruntwood.

To mark the 10th anniversary of the Prize, Bruntwood and the Royal Exchange Theatre have commissioned the acclaimed photographer Simon Annand to photograph a selection of British playwrights in the places where they work and find inspiration. The resulting photographs will be exhibited at the Royal Exchange Theatre from April 2015.

The 2013 Bruntwood Prize was won

by Anna Jordan’s play YEN, which will receive its world premiere at the Royal Exchange from 18th February 2015.

Also premiering at the Royal Exchange later this year will be THE ROLLING STONE by Chris Urch, which was a winner of a Judges Award at the 2013 Bruntwood Prize. The production will be directed by award-winning director Ellen McDougall.

Sarah Frankcom, Bruntwood Prize judge, and Artistic Director of the Royal Exchange, said: “I really want to discover a play or a writer that is such a game changer it will redefine what a play can be and how it can connect with audiences. We’re excited about producing two Bruntwood winners at the Royal Exchange this year. I can’t wait to see what we find this time around.”

Michael Oglesby, Bruntwood Prize judge, and Founder and Chair of Bruntwood, said “What we want is writers who think big and aren’t afraid to take on challenging subjects or write

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for large spaces. Since we founded the Bruntwood Prize ten years ago it has grown into a prize of major significance.

The writers who have won previously have gone on to great things and I hope we find more great talent this year.”

The judging panel for this year’s prize will be chaired by Nicholas Hytner, former Artistic Director of the National Theatre. The full judging panel is as follows: • Nicholas Hytner (former Artistic Director, National Theatre) • Sarah Frankcom (Artistic Director, Royal Exchange Theatre) • Vivienne Franzmann (playwright and former Bruntwood winner) • Ramin Gray (Artistic Director, Actors Touring Company) • Bryony Lavery (playwright) • Michael Oglesby CBE (Chairman, Bruntwood) • Miranda Sawyer (writer and broadcaster) • Meera Syal CBE (actor and writer).

The Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting is open to writers in the UK and Ireland aged 16 and over.

Entries can be submitted online at www. writeaplay.co.uk The closing date is 6pm on 5th June 2015.

The Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting is Britain’s biggest playwriting competition. This round will mark the 10th anniversary of the Prize, which has supported the development and productions of a significant number of playwrights since its inception in 2005.

17 playwrights have been awarded a total of £160,000. There have been thirteen critically acclaimed productions of winning entries, as well as a number of productions of plays elsewhere that were identified through the judging process.

Over 9,000 entries have been generated from across the United Kingdom and winning playwrights have gone on to have work produced at the Royal Court Theatre, Almeida Theatre, on Broadway and in the West End. It is a significant investment in playwrights and support for new work on stage. More information about the Prize can be found at www.writeaplay.co.uk/about.

MARCH - JULY 2015 50/50Tea dance with Val Wednesdays, 1.30pm to 4pm 50% ballroom, 50% sequence social dance.

Includes a cup of tea or coffee. Admission £4.50.

Contact phone 0161 253 7227 Longfield Suite, Prestwich town centre

1st Thursday Comedy 5th March Direct from New York, on the first leg of her European tour....

Advance Tickets just £8 from 0161 761 2216 The Met, Market Street, Bury, Greater Manchester, BL9 0BW.

Jay Rayner: My Dining Hell 5 March, 7.30pm A hugely entertaining evening in the company of the man recently voted the best food and drink journalist in Britain. Jay Rayner has been a restaurant critic for over a decade, written reviews of well over 700 establishments, and if there is one thing he’s learnt it is that people like reviews of bad restaurants. No, scratch that. They adore them, feast upon them like starving vultures who have spotted fly-blown carrion out in the bush. In My Dining Hell, Jay examines our love affair with lousy reviews, reads from accounts of some of the most excruciating nights out he’s ever had, looks at the worst reviews his own work has ever received, and invites the audience to give his performance a review in real time via Twitter. A hugely entertaining evening in the company of the man recently voted the best food and drink journalist in Britain.

Jay Rayner is an award winning journalist, writer and broadcaster. He has been the Observer newspaper’s restaurant critic for over 12 years, is the resident food expert on The One Show, a regular judge on Masterchef and chair of BBC Radio 4’s Kitchen Cabinet. He has a lot of hair and a fine collection of flowery shirts.

Book signing: Jay Rayner will be signing print copies of his eBook My Dining Hell which contains 20 of his negative reviews. They will be available to purchase for just £4 each.

Waterside Arts Centre 1 Waterside Plaza, Sale. M33 7ZF Tickets £14/£12 Call 0161 912 5616 www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Model Boat Show atthe National Waterways Museum

7-8th March Organised by the Ellesmere Port Model Boat Club, the weekend will see the museum basin and locks taken over by intricate radio controlled boats which will demonstrate their owner’s skills at both model making and boat piloting. There will also be exhibitions of masterpieces of model boats from various clubs based in the North West and trader’s stalls. Admission only £3.50.

National Waterways Museum, South Pier Road, Ellesmere Port CH65 4FW. For more information please call 0151 3355017.

45

OUT & ABOUT

BOLTON NHS FOUNDATIONTRUST ANNOUNCES SUCCESS OF ITS GYNAECOLOGY OUTPATIENT HYSTEROSCOPYTREATMENT CLINIC

Thursday 9th April 4.00 - 10.30pm Friday 10th April 12.00 - 10.30pm Saturday 11th April 12.00 - 10.30pm 40+ Real Ales Real Ciders & Ukrainian Craft Beers (bottled) Admissions £2 (except Friday after 5.30pm £3 plus £2 (refundable glass hire.

HOT FOOD Soft Drinks & snacks available at all sessions.

Bolton Ukrainian Club, 90 Castle Street Bolton BL2 1JP. www.boltonbeerfestival org.uk

The one and only Quiz Extravaganza...

Friday 20 March at 7.30pm

The one and only Quiz Extravaganza makes a triumphal return to its favourite spot in the BLT calendar on Friday 20 March at 7.30pm.

Admission is £2 per contestant.

The usual heady mix of tried and tested trivia will be on offer for all comers, veterans and newbies alike! You can make up a team in advance or just come along and join one on the night.

So, if you are interested in pitting your wits against the Quiz Master and the other contestants then put this date in your diaries and start sharpening your minds in anticipation of another stimulating evening in Hanover St. The doors and bar will be open from 7pm and traditional refreshments will be served at minimal cost.

Bolton Little Theatre Hannover Street, Bolton BL1 4TG

PRIVATE LIVES

28th March to 18th April

On a romantic evening in 1930s France, Amanda and Victor are enjoying their first evening as newlyweds, blissfully unaware that Amanda's ex-husband Elyot and his beautiful young wife Sybil are celebrating their own honeymoon in the hotel room just next door.

Bolton NHS Foundation Trust launched its Women’s Health Care Unit outpatients department to women in Bolton over five years ago and, since opening, has treated more than 700 patients, who have been able to have a procedure and be home within just a couple of hours and back to their normal daily activities, with little disruption and discomfort Led by a group of dedicated consultants and staff, the clinic treats approximately 4-6 patients every week.

One of the treatments being offered is the innovative MyoSure® hysteroscopic tissue removal system, allowing fast removal of intra-uterine polyps and fibroids under local anaesthetic in an outpatient setting.

Miss Katakam, Consultant Gynaecologist, commented, “We have been running a successful and established women’s outpatient hysteroscopy procedure clinic at Bolton for over five years now and, more recently, have introduced MyoSure, since its launch in the UK a couple of years ago. It is a great treatment option for women who can be treated in the outpatient setting. This is particularly important for women wishing to avoid, or is not suitable for, major and invasive surgery to treat their fibroids causing heavy periods and for those where fertility issues may be due to certain types of fibroids.”

Patient testimonials: “I am extremely pleased with the procedure”; “I am surprised how quickly the procedure was completed”; “The fibroid just disappeared while I was watching on the screen”.

NovaSure® is another treatment option that Bolton NHS Foundation Trust introduced when it set up its outpatient treatment clinic and has treated over 500 patients to date.

NovaSure® is for women with menstrual disorders (also known as menorrhagia). This onetime, 60 to 120 second endometrial ablation procedure is available to women who have completed their families and works by applying radio frequency energy to the endometrium (lining of the womb).

1 in 4 women aged between 30-50 years suffer with heavy menstrual bleeding and it is estimated to be the fourth most common reason for referral to gynaecological services.

Each year, 30,000 women undergo surgical treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding in England and Wales.

The Octagon Theatre, Howell Croft South, Bolton. BL1 1SBH. CALL 0844 815 4873

Many women will often suffer in silence, too embarrassed to visit their doctor for advice and ask about treatment options for heavy menstrual bleeding, believing that there are no cures, apart from taking the drastic step of having a hysterectomy.

Ramsbottom Chocolate Festival

Miss Das, Consultant Gynaecologist, concluded, “The outpatient hysteroscopy treatment clinics provides safe and latest treatment options for the women in Bolton. Outpatient treatment clinic allows treatment options for women who may not want, or be able to have, a general anaesthetic. They can be home and back with their families within just a few hours of having their elective procedure.”

Bridge Street, Ramsbottom Contact phone 0161 253 5111

Picture: The Bolton NHS Foundation Trust Outpatient Clinic Team.

28 to 29 March Celebrating everything that is great about chocolate. Bringing the best of chocolate producers from around the UK.

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A great day out for all the famil y ating

g E Shoppin ·

· Gardenin g · Playing

Ground Floor

Bring in your “50 Plus” magazine and get EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS and FREE Tea or Coffee* *With any purchase from the Café.

Simply hand into the reception when you visit. Valid until 31st May 2015.

First Floor

£££

Fashion & Footwear Department

NOW OPEN

Great local produce from in and around the Lancashire area.

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Casablanca’s Café

Up to

OPEN 9AM-5PM

Second Floor

%

off

Third Floor Bedding & Soft Furnishings Collectables, Vintage & Kitchenalia Childrens Toys & Clothes Crafts & Gifts • Penny Arcade

Bespoke Furniture • Home Interiors Carpets & Rugs • Multi Fuel Stoves • Waterbeds Steam Showers • Pictures & Wall Art

home

furniture & interiors Fourth Floor

Located on the 4th floor, providing the ideal stop off to refuel ready to shop your way back to the ground floor or have a wholesome meal before leaving for home.

FREE ENTRY BotanyBay

Open Weekdays 10am-2pm Weekends 10am-4pm Seasonal Shop Function Room • Toilets

FREE PARKING @BotanyBayUK

For more information please visit:

www.botanybay.co.uk Call 01257 261 220 or email info@botanybay.co.uk Canal Mill, Botany Brow, Chorley PR6 9AF

OUT & ABOUT

‘Botany Bay offers a unique shopping experience with 5 floors of shopping and leisure located inside Canal Mill,an old cotton mill.

Bury Market has a well deserved reputation for friendly service, fantastic produce and great value.

Located off J2 of the M66 and with over 350 stalls open every Full Market Day it’s easy to find and even easier to enjoy!

Bury Town Centre is also home to the Fusilier Museum, East Lancashire Railway, Bury Transport Museum and Bury Art Gallery.

There is so much to see with our Food hall, fashion and footwear, furniture and interiors and much more. Open 7 days a week 9am – 5.30pm.’

THE KING'S SPEECH 30th March to 4th April

At an office in Harley Street, London, Bertie and his wife Elizabeth (the future much-loved Queen Mother) are meeting maverick Australian speech therapist and failed actor, Lionel Logue.

Starring Jason Donovan as Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue in a powerful dramatic role.

Manchester Opera House, Quay Street Manchester. M3 3HP. Booking Number - 0844 871 7660.

MRS BROWN'S BOYS: HOW NOW MRS BROWN COW

7th to 11th April The award-winning Mrs Brown's Boys return to Manchester next year with their brand new tour How Now Mrs Brown Cow. If you haven’t experienced Mrs Brown’s Boys live, this new tour is set to be one of the hottest tickets for 2015 and is not to be missed.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS FOR THIS SHOW CALL 0844 854 1355 Manchester Arena, Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester, M3 1AR

May Day Steamings at Bolton Steam Museum Bury Market Hall: Open every day except Sunday Full Markets Open: Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays “Winner National Coach Tourism Awards” Coach Friendly Shopping Destination of the Year “Winner NABMA’s” Best Market Attraction

Bury Market Management: Tel: 0161 253 6520 Email: burymarkets@bury.gov.uk Web: www.burymarket.com : @BuryMarket

Sunday, 3rd May; Monday 4th May. 10.00am - 4.00pm

Our volunteers have rescued and restored 27 old stationary steam engines, which once powered the cotton mills and woollen mills of Lancashire and Yorkshire. Most will be running in steam on these 2 days only.

Spring Bank Holiday Steamings at Bolton Steam Museum

Sunday 24th May, Monday 25th May. 10.00am - 4.00pm

Our volunteers have rescued and restored 27 old stationary steam engines, which once powered the cotton mills and woollen mills of Lancashire and Yorkshire. Most will be running in steam on these 2 days only.

Admission charge: Free.

Bolton Steam Museum, Mornington Road, off Chorley Old Road, Bolton BL1 4EU Website: www.nmes.org Contact Tel. 01204 846490

LORD OFTHE DANCE: DANGEROUS GAME

Tuesday 5th to Sunday 10th May 48

With all the visceral prevision and thrills of the original, Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games features new staging, new costumes and choreography. With 40 of the world's most outstanding performers directed by Michael Flatley.

Manchester Opera House, Quay Street Manchester. M3 3HP. Booking Number 0844 871 7660.

CHRIS DE BURGH & BAND

8th May Chris de Burgh is an Irish/British singersongwriter and instrumentalist. He is most famous for his 1986 love song 'Lady In Red', which reached number one in several countries.

De Burgh has sold over 45 million albums worldwide. His emotional songs combine melody and rhythm with storytelling.

Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street, Liverpool, L1 9BP. Bookings Number - 0844 854 1355.

BRYAN FERRY

Tuesday 26th May

Upbeat and punky in the 70s, heartfelt and poppy in the 80s, his smooth and distinctive vocal sound made Roxy Music a worldwide success. Now solo, Ferry's flair for touching the romantic in everyone (now replete with jazztinged influences) is as powerful as ever.

Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street, Liverpool, L1 9BP. Bookings Number - 0844 854 1355.

FLEETWOOD MAC

12th June & 1st July Following a record sell out tour in 2013, rock legends Fleetwood Mac are set to return to the Manchester in 2015 with their On With The Show Tour. All five stars will be performing, including Christine McVie, who returns to the band following a 16 year absence.

Manchester Arena, Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester, M3 1AR Bookings 0844 847 2277.

FRANKIE VALLI &THE FOUR SEASONS

26th June Formed in New Jersey in 1955 by falsetto lead singer Frankie Valli, the group scored their first number one in the summer of 1962 with Sherr.

One of the few Stateside groups whose reign of hits was uninterrupted by The Beatles and the British Invasion.

Manchester Arena, Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester, M3 1AR Bookings 0844 854 1355.

Come along to PARTY AND PLAY FUNHOUSE for a fun time with the kids or grandkids!

Bolton’s largest indoor play-centre in Wingates Industrial Park near Westhoughton is well worth a visit if you haven’t already been there. All the family can have a super smiley time whatever the weather!

This family-run business established in 2007 has extensive, bright play facilities - ideal for toddlers up to 12-year-olds to play and explore in a safe and secure environment – and it’s designed so that you can see them playing wherever they are.

STOP PRESS!

See our web pages for details of our Frozen Party on 20th March!

For the older ones there is a drop-slide, curly tree slide and four-lane slide. As well as a Rapunzel climbing tower, sports court and four trampolines we have a Spooky Corner - and our pay-as-you-go Go-Karts are `a must’!

Our toddler area has role play areas, sportscourt and ball-pool as well as a car-track and mini-slide. With lots of toys for babies and toddlers, there are also high-chairs, baby-bouncers and baby walkers. Nappy-

changing facilities are available – plus we’ll warm your baby’s food for you.

Our magical party-rooms are perfect for special celebrations, so check out our party packages and celebrate at the best party venue in town! You can also hire the whole play-centre for the evening. And don’t miss visiting our party shop, full of party ideas, gifts, toys and fancy dress costumes.

Party and Play also has a state-of-the art Sensory Studio for learning and development, so phone to book onto one of our Baby Sessions on Wednesday and Thursday mornings – or bring toddlers down for our weekly arts-and-crafts sessions.

There’s plenty of car-parking, and of course a café serving freshly prepared meals, snacks and drinks for all ages. No booking is required for a play - just come along – you can relax on our sofas while the kids and grandkids have a super smiley time!

Visit www.partyandplayfunhouse.co.uk for more details, phone us on 01942 818195 or email info@partyandplayfunhouse.co.uk.

LET US ENTERTAIN THE KIDS OR GRANDKIDS at the BIGGEST PARTY and PLAY CENTRE in GREATER MANCHESTER ...

OPEN DAILY FROM 9.30AM-6PM WITH LATE OPENING ‘TIL 7PM ON FRIDAYS

From Sensory classes & craft making to family favourites; 4 lane slide, curly slide, drop slide, football/basketball court, trampolines, role play areas, go karts PLUS much, MUCH more!

ALL IN A SAFE AND SECURE ENVIRONMENT, AND WHILE THE KIDS LET OFF STEAM YOU CAN RELAX IN OUR CAFE WITH A FRESHLY PREPARED MEAL OR SNACK AND THOSE ALL-IMPORTANT FRESHLY MADE COFFEES FOR A FANTASTIC RANGE OF THEMED BIRTHDAY PARTIES WITH OPTIONS TO SUIT, WHY NOT CELEBRATE IN THE BEST PARTY VENUE IN TOWN! CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

50 PLUS READER OFFER~- £1 OFF ADMISSION WITH THIS ADVERT OR QUOTE 50 PLUS AT RECEPTION www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

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If there’s a Will, there’s a way to avoid Intestacy Pitfalls Changes to the laws of intestacy mean that surviving spouses stand to inherit everything from an estate – even if they are estranged.

by Judith Bromley Russell & Russell

The Inheritance and Trustees Powers Act, which came into effect on the 1st October 2014, has made changes to the law governing intestacy, the most significant of which focuses on the distribution of an estate where there is a surviving spouse or a civil partner.

Previously, where an estate was worth less than £250,000, the spouse was the sole benefactor. If there were no children involved and an estate was valued at more than £250,000, the surviving spouse, or civil partner, was obliged to share the deceased’s assets with any surviving parents or with full siblings if no parents were alive.

If the deceased was survived by both a spouse, or civil partner, and children, the spouse received a statutory legacy of £250,000, the personal chattels – or belongings – of the deceased, and a life interest in half of anything that remained. A life interest is considered to be the profit or interest made from any investment of the remaining money in the estate. The children received the balance of the estate plus the spouse’s life interest upon their death.

Under the new rules, however, the entitlement of parents and siblings has been removed, leaving the surviving spouse to inherit the entire estate. Where there are children involved, the spouse is now entitled to personal chattels, the first £250,000 and half of whatever is left over, rather than just a life interest on the outstanding amount.

This new regulation means the children no longer have an entitlement to the spouse’s half of the life interest.

The impact of the new rules could have far reaching consequences. While divorce will null a will, some would argue that the new legislation gives too much priority to the surviving spouse, which could become problematic.

For example, if a person has been married more than once, without a will, their spouse stands to inherit the lion’s share of their estate and would be within their rights to pass on the estate to their own children rather than those of the deceased.

“The goal posts have definitely moved”, explains Judith Bromley, head of wills and probate at Russell and Russell Solicitors. “It’s more important than ever to have a will because dying intestate would mean that the government decides who benefits from your estate and, in the eyes of the law, only partners who are married or in a civil partnership can inherit. Making a will allows you greater control over who gets what, which could make all the difference to children or family and friends who you may want to receive something, but who don’t get along with your partner.”

According to Law Society research, there are 30 million adults in the UK who are without a will, but perhaps the people with the most to lose are cohabiting couples who are not married or in a civil partnership.

Figures from the Office of National Statistics suggest there are more than one million unmarried couples with dependent children living in the UK. While changes to the intestacy rules have strengthened the position of married spouses and civil partners, the position of cohabiting couples has been left unchanged.

“This poses a real risk to people who are estranged from their husband or wife and who have entered into a new relationship with someone else”, continues Judith.

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FINANCE “It doesn’t matter if they live together, if they’re not married or in a civil partnership, they’re not legally entitled to anything if their partner dies. Even more worrying is that if a person dies who has split acrimoniously from their husband or wife and they haven’t made or changed their will, their ex stands to get everything as they’re still technically married.”

Research carried out by the Law Society found that 34% of people it surveyed stated that they had not made a will because they did not think they had anything worth leaving. Twenty-three per cent of respondents also believed that without a will, their possessions would automatically go to their family. In 2013, the government received £8 million as a consequence of people dying intestate.

Dying without a will can also leave an estate liable for inheritance tax. It is estimated that Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs will pocket nearly £6 billion from inheritance tax by 2018. Leaving money to charity in your will is just one of the ways to help reduce the amount of tax payable on an estate and this is something a solicitor can advise on.

“Your will is one of the most important personal finance decisions you’ll ever make”, says Judith. “Nobody likes to think about it too much because it’s a reminder of their own mortality, but if they don’t want the government getting their hands on their estate, or someone else for that matter, it’s vital they make their final wishes clear and legally binding.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

“Also, don’t risk using an unregulated will writer as they can’t advise on a lot of the complex financial issues around inheritance tax or trust planning, for example. Solicitors are trained and regulated and they’re also required to have insurance to protect clients.”

Judith is not alone in her view. A YouGov survey found that 71 per cent of people stated that they would be more likely to use a Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme accredited law firm.

Judith concludes: “As Benjamin Franklin quite rightly stated; in this world nothing can be more certain, except death and taxes. I can’t stress how important it is for people to put their affairs in order. Don’t leave it until you’re on your death bed either as sometimes it can be too late to be validated if a person is moving in and out of a state of consciousness. Depending on its complexity, probate can be an expensive business, but the cost of a simple will remains very reasonable, especially when you think how much trouble and heartache it can save, and that in itself is priceless.”

Established in 1887, Russell and Russell Solicitors have been providing legal services for 128 years. The practice has grown organically and now operates from nine offices across the North West. In addition to wills and probate, the firm also provides legal advice on residential and commercial property, family law, personal injury and criminal defence.

russellrussell.co.uk

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TrUe beariNG

CHarTereD FiNaNCiaL PLaNNers e Right Direction for Financial Advice

FiNaNCiaL PLaNNiNG versUs PrODUCT seLLiNG For too long we have all been annoyed and frustrated about the quality of so called FiNaNCiaL aDviCe. Complaints are made by clients, fines are levied by the regulator (FCA), and worst of all trust is lost. is there an alternative? e answer is very definitely yes.

Over the past 20 years, a new breed of adviser has grown out of the ashes.

• An adviser who is independent of an insurance company, bank, or investment company control.

• An adviser who is highly qualified.

• An adviser that puts the clients’ needs first.

He or she genuinely cares.

• An adviser who only charges fees, not commissions.

so what is so different about FiNaNCiaL PLaNNiNG? Clients’ needs, wants, future plans & objectives are put at the COre. A detailed discussion takes place until full understanding is reached. is may take more than one meeting.

Very oen, a cash flow model is created to help the customer understand the longerterm impact of financial decisions made today. en, and only then, if a financial product is purchased it should fit the need like a well-fitting glove.

Issues like: appetite for risk, need for certainty, long term cost, tax implications, trust needs, other debts and investment growth are all taken into consideration. are you still wary? You are entitled to be, but 2000 True Bearing clients will tell you differently.

brought to you by Chartered Financial Planners, True bearing Limited. award winning; Chartered; independent; and achievers of the investors in People Gold awards.

True Bearing Chartered Financial Planners is a trading name of True Bearing Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

True Bearing Limited is registered in England and Wales. Registration No: 4806442.

Registered Office: 2 Buckshaw Court, East Terrace Business Park, Euxton Lane, Chorley Lancashire PR7 6TB

FOr aLL yOUr PLaNNiNG NeeDs A founder member of True Bearing Chartered Financial Planners, David has built an excellent reputation as a professional and enthusiastic Independent Financial Adviser.

David’s clients welcome his knowledge and hands-on approach but most of all his relaxed manner and courtesy.

Clients of David comment on the helpful discipline of David’s planning process and planning meetings, and his unique ability to translate financial jargon into plain English.

DaviD Oversby MA APFS Chartered Financial Planner

“We have dealt with David Oversby for the majority of our financial affairs for the last 10 years. We have found him to be professional and attentive at all times offering astute and accurate advice.”

Tony Glen, Chorley.

David holds advanced qualifications in taxation, trusts, investment and pensions.

To discuss your needs further without obligation, please contact David Oversby Office: 01257 260011 Mobile: 07790 463 561 email: david.oversby@truebearing.co.uk Website: www.truebearing.co.uk/david-oversby/

Home from Hospital

Going into hospital can be a worrying experience at any time but, for many older people who live alone, (or are the main carer for another), coming out can be even more so, as they wonder how they are going to cope. Sadly over the last 10 years there has been an 88% increase in readmissions to hospital of older people (65+) in the days or weeks following discharge. So many times this situation,

Volunteers needed To work with our 'Home from Hospital' service, providing support following discharge from hospital We are looking for volunteers who can drive, have four hours a week to spare and a genuine desire to help older people recover at home after a stay in hospital. No personal care will be involved, tasks may include collecting prescriptions, shopping for essential items and attending follow-up medical appointments. All training will be provided.

which is very distressing for the person and costs the NHS £2.2billion a year, could have been avoided if they had only received a little bit of help and support in the first days and weeks after discharge.

With families increasingly living at a distance and working neighbours living busy lives, often reticent to “get involved”, many older people no longer have the traditional support networks around them to help out when they are at their most vulnerable.

We are delighted to launch our new service in partnership with Bolton FT Hospital and Senior Solutions. This is a much needed service which is filling a gap. For example someone may go home from hospital with a full homecare package to meet their personal care needs but there is no one to do the shopping or make the meals they need to recover and build up their strength again. Our dedicated staff and volunteers are not tied to 15 minute appointments but have the time to listen to people’s concerns as well as provide practical and emotional support. They build up a relationship so they become regarded as a friend popping in and something to look forward to and rely on. Many of our clients typically see no one other than perhaps medical or social care professionals for days or weeks on end. We know people value our service just as much for the human contact as for the practical support, if not more so. This is so important to ward off loneliness and depression which in turn impacts recovery. Indeed respected research shows that being lonely is as bad for our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day! We are able to lend a listening ear, offer a shoulder to cry on and have a laugh to cheer them up as well as help to collect prescriptions or walk their dog. Being more positive and knowing that someone cares helps people to recover and go on to take better care of themselves.

Some of the types of support we have been able to offer since we opened our office in the hospital on 16th December include: • Informal chats and emotional support and agreeing personal recovery goals so we can tailor our support to meet them • Making lunch and preparing and clearing away drinks and snacks • Taking a client’s dog for a walk • Doing shopping for clients and taking others to the shops • Help with buying a freezer to store ready meals and tips on home cooking to remove dependency on Meals on Wheels and their set delivery times • Referring clients to our free, expert Information & Advice service • Finding social networks to combat isolation and support with a detox plan • Arranging and accompanying clients to medical appointments

For more information contact Heather Crook, Community Services Manager

01204 701525 or email heathercrook@ageukbolton.org.uk

• Liaising with GPs and pharmacists • Helping clients collect their pension and to go to pay their bills • Accompanying clients to local lunch and leisure clubs

Registered charity number 223240 IDBBOS264 05/14

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• Arranging cleaning services • Sorting out spectacles’ repair • Help to resolve problems and faults with a client’s phone • Providing a sitting service to support a carer for a terminally ill client • Providing emotional and social support We can provide support for up to 6 weeks but we also work with other services to put more long term services in place where this is needed and can link people up with a whole range of our own services that enable older people to stay as mentally, physically and socially active as long as possible. This might include matching them up with a befriender, joining a lunch and leisure club or attending afternoon teas plus a whole range of physical, creative, dance and fitness activities. We also have a Handyman service to help maintain their home and garden, insurance products and services tailored specifically for the over 50s and offer free information and advice on a range of issues from access to care, housing, pensions, attendance allowance, will making and much more.

We know these types of interventions work from studying similar Age UK services elsewhere and why at Age UK Bolton we were pleased to invest our own funds in getting this service off the ground. We are delighted that the CCG and Bolton Council have joined with us in funding this important work for the next 6months and remain confident of showing a real return on investment by preventing avoidable readmissions to hospital.

Independent evaluation demonstrates that for every £1 spent on these types of services the public purse will save between £1.50 and £6. More importantly older people will receive the support and friendship they need when they need it most.

“From a personal perspective I’ve found that professional groups such as therapists, stroke specialists, and social workers I’ve talked with in meetings and presentations have all been really enthusiastic about the service we are offering and are really pleased that we are putting in place support for older people that will bridge the gap in situations where health and social care don’t quite cover a person’s practical and emotional needs.

I can only see a bright future for Home from Hospital as the service becomes better known around Bolton.”

John Inman, Project Officer, Home from Hospital.

Age UK, Bolton.

The Home from Hospital team can be contacted at Bolton FT Hospital on 01204 390390 ext. 3519 o 3520 Could you spare four hours a week to become a Home from Hospital volunteer and join our dedicated team making a real difference to an older person? We also have a range of other volunteering opportunities with less time commitments but that still make a real difference.

Anyone interested in discussing volunteering opportunities should contact Heather Crook Community Services Manager on 01204 701525.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

TOP TIPS FOR TACKLING LONELINESS Whether your family has flown the nest, you’ve moved to a new area or you’ve lost your loved one, we can all find ourselves lonely at times. Sandy Sidhu, Founder of Silver Villages suggests tips to tackle loneliness.

By Sandy Sidhu, Founder of Silver Villages

1. Find the time - Think about old friends you may have fallen out of touch with who you think might just love to hear from you! Websites such as Facebook make it much easier to track old friends down. If you haven’t already sign up for an e-mail account and skype to make free video calls.

2. Be around children - Children have a natural joy and exuberance that makes us feel good and smile, so make time to play with your grandkids or family - their innocence and joy is infectious!

3. Holiday – Arrange a holiday either abroad or in this country with either your friends or family. Or consider going on your own. Companies such as Solos travel specialise in packages for single travellers. It’s wonderful to have something so exciting to look forward to.

4. Consider a pet - Having a pet is more often that not a very loving experience. Getting an easy to look after pet dog encourages you to get out the house and get some fresh air. If you can’t have your own dog, help someone else out and help look after their dog at www.borrowmydoggy.com.

5. Start something new - Why don’t you take up a hobby or learn something new? It provides an opportunity to meet people and start a friendship. Join a group, club or a community to have lovely things to look forward to. If you have the time, voluntary work is also a wonderful way to give back and to meet new people.

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FREE NO OBLIGATION CONSULTATION Call 01204 382244

BOLTON DENTURE CENTRE 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. Dentures, like most things, have a limited lifespan; usually around 5-7 years. After this period of time the denture can start to offer inadequate facial support, which can leave cheeks looking sunken and withered as well as lips appearing excessively wrinkled. New dentures can reduce these age related features by supporting the facial tissues without making the teeth looking large and protruded.

Bolton Denture Centre is an existing clinic focusing on providing dentures directly to the public. As a result they are able to concentrate on providing exceptional quality of private dentures to their patients. Their success is attributed to the investments that they have made in terms of latest technology laboratory equipment, using the best materials and the most natural, life like and realistic denture teeth that are available. Not to mention their biggest investment; in there own training and qualifications as Clinical Dental Technicians.

What is a Clinical Dental Technician?

Bolton Denture Centre offer FREE consultation so that they can assess what services or treatment you might require as well as showing you the various standards of dentures that they can produce. After this free consultation you are under no obligation to go ahead and have new dentures made, the door is open for you to go away and reflect upon the information that you have been presented.

They also offer an intensive denture cleaning service. This denture cleaning machine uses strong detergents and mild chemicals to breakdown the plaque and debris that builds up on a denture over prolonged periods of time.

Despite the best efforts of a denture wearer to clean their dentures thoroughly, plaque can still build up and impair the functionality of the denture and produce an unpleasant taste or odour.

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 Bolton Denture Centure 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 direst 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 56

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www.thedenturepeople.com One thing that many patients are amazed at is the amount of time that the clinician spends with the patient to ensure that the dentures are just how that patient wants them to look. As well as the after service, because as many dentures wearers know, getting used to new dentures can take a little bit of time and perseverance as well as having someone to help ease the little sore spots that comes with having new dentures.

NEW DENTURES MADE AT THE CLINIC

PREVIOUS DENTURES

Advances in technology now means that there are new ways to hold a denture in place. The most significant one of these is though the use of implants. There any many different types of implants but on whole the main idea of implants is something that is able to offer the lower denture stability and support to stop it from moving around the mouth.

Although these are not a cheap solution they are by far the most effective, offering total lower denture security in any environment.

Bolton Denture Centre only offers Private denture treatment, however, they are able to construct a good quality private denture for less than most people would imagine but because of their position within the industry they have been able to source materials and teeth, as well as techniques that even some top London dentists are not familiar with and they are more than happy to show their patients example of the different qualities that they can offer to the public.

Other services that are offer by Bolton Denture Centre are; denture naming service, denture refurbishment, relines and soft relines as well as advice and tips for cleaning and maintaining your dentures.

If you are interested in a FREE, no obligation consultation then call 01204 382244 to book your new patient consultation.

BOLTON DENTURE CENTRE for your next quality denture • Qualified Clinical Dental Technicians • New Dentures and Relines • Dental Repairs • Denture Cleaning Services • Free Consultations

Contact us at:

BOLTON: 01204 382244 44 Higher Bridge Street | Bolton | BL1 2HA.

Registered with the GENERAL DENTAL COUNCIL

www.thedenturepeople.com

ISOLATION EPIDEMIC CAN BE FIXED BUT WE NEED OUR COMMUNITY BACK Forget terrorism and a lack of savings, feeling lonely is keeping us awake at night according to neuroscientist and cognitive psychologist Dr Lynda Shaw who says isolation of the elderly and the vulnerable is becoming an epidemic and the only solution is trying to rebuild a sense of community that has been largely lost in the UK this century.

“Facebook and online social networks may encourage ‘virtual’ communities but they are no replacement for a sense of community in the real world.

We are turning more and more into a work and electronic gadget obsessed nation, who are losing our green spaces for children to play in and our local amenities, spending less time with our families and with different generations, and older people are losing their independence and dignity.”

Shaw says: “The elderly, the bereaved, the disabled and individuals suffering from either mental or physical illness feel isolated which has a profound effect on their health and well-being and on us as a society. Whilst it is commonly acknowledged that isolation is rife, intervention is not forthcoming and we need to start combatting the growing problem by mixing age groups, religions and so on. We need school classes to visit care homes or go on a meals on wheels outing. We need different religious groups to socialise. We need to have more local events raising money for more local projects.

“If we carry on with our day to day lives oblivious to those in need around us, particularly within our own community, we are losing key structures in society including trust, understanding, patience and open-mindedness. We are also losing our feeling of belonging. We are all going to need our community at some point so it is important to give whilst you can, be it something as simple as giving someone a lift somewhere, or knocking on someone’s door for a chat if they know you.”

Shaw describes that whilst over the years a community often changes, sometimes for better but sometimes for the worse, we need to be able to adjust whilst falling back on good old fashioned values of welcoming new neighbours, helping someone in need or hosting a pub quiz for a community project.

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59

Living Life to the Full with dementia!

Most of our members will tell you that we have fun and lots of it at all the events we organise. Dementia is a serious topic but it does not need to rule your life.

At Bolton Dementia Support we try to organise as many fun and exciting events as possible for our members.

One of these events was the Rock and Roll event. Our members went back in time to their youth and reminisced about their lives in the 1950s.

At Bolton Dementia Support we understand that positive thinking is crucial for carers and the person they care for. Norman McNamara (AKA Norrms), a former Boltonian who was diagnosed with dementia 6 years ago at the age of 50, is also a strong believer in positive thinking. A famous quote from Norms is

picture of two of our members on a trip to Llandudno.

“I may have dementia but dementia doesn’t have me!”

With this thought in mind and bags of experience and enthusiasm we planned a range of activities that our members have asked for.

During the past year we organised many trips out for their members, including days out at Ribchester, Southport, Llandudno, Blackpool illuminations, Liverpool Empire Theatre and Tatton Hall. The cost for the trips is heavily subsidised by the charity which makes them affordable for everyone. Below is a

The Lion King, Singing in the Rain and Joseph and His Amazing Technicolour DreamCoat were three of the productions we saw at the theatre.

We have three Memory Cafés each week at various venues throughout the Bolton borough. One on a Monday at Victoria Hall in the town centre from 2 until 4pm, Tuesday is at the RMI club in Horwich from 2 until 4pm and a final one on Wednesday at Bar Lane Bowling Club in Astley Bridge also from 2 until 4pm. There is always something going on at the cafes, from singers to exercise to Circle dancing. Our members have lots of fun at the cafes and it gives them a chance to socialise with others.

Left is a picture of our members taking part in ‘Zumba Gold’ run by Tracey Tennent which is one of the activities held at the cafes. Middle: Fun with music.

“We have so much fun at the memory cafés. I have made so many friends who I now see outside of the groups. It gives people the chance to meet other people who are in a smilar situation and then you realise you are not alone.”

We ring the changes with the types of events we put on, in November 2014 our staff and volunteers completed ‘Circle Dance’ training. The wide range of music links to celebrations, life events, and enables the exploration of the social and cultural aspects of connecting lives. Music has been selected from the Circle Dance repertoire and dances have been simplified and adapted for both seated and standing dance. The touch, holding, swaying, and simple repetitive movements allow the participant to feel 60

safe within the circle. During the dance session comments and thoughts are often evoked and expressed. With the release of feelings people with dementia may be helped to communicate. The circle therefore provides an opportunity for expression and creativity. The dance provides an enjoyable form of exercise and movement. It offers the opportunity for a shared activity with partners, relatives and carers. Look out for Circle Dancing sessions coming up at our weekly Memory Cafés. Right is a picture of our staff and volunteers taking part in the Circle Dance training.

We have now started to include Circle Dance into our repertoire of activities

In order to fund the work we do we hosted a Christmas Fair to help boost our funds. We sold bric-a-brac, cakes, crafts, jewellery, clothes, books and much more.

Children also got the chance to meet Santa and his elves in his grotto. Over £1600 was raised!!

Christmas was about having fun too. On 17th December we held our Christmas party for 104 members and volunteers. A three course Christmas lunch was served and entertainment was provided by Terry from ‘Geriatric Jazz’. The members were all in high spirits and danced the afternoon away. Thanks to Your Choice Homecare there was a huge raffle with over 50 hampers won by members.

“Today has been the best day of the year for me” “I will remember this day for a long long time” When you’re smiling!

Often we only ever hear of the negative side of dementia forgetting that many people living with dementia can have a fun and fulfilling life when the right support is available.

People living with dementia can also generate such optimism and positivity particularly when we use a person centred approach to their care and wellbeing.

Over the past 12 months Bolton Dementia Support have been working with Steff Porter-Smith at ‘WellArty’, as well as artist Chloe Warren and the sixth form drama students at Turton School, on a ‘Dementia Positive’ project. The project was funded by ‘Awards For All’ and has involved a drama production by the sixth form students. The drama students worked with us to gain an understanding

of what it might be like to live with dementia. The drama production was managed by Steff Porter-Smith at ‘Well Arty’ and the intention was to portray a positive image of LIVING with dementia.

The students demonstrated what life can be like for a person living with dementia when they are receiving a person centred care approach.

To repeat an important phrase: we must see it not as: living with DEMENTIA but LIVING with dementia.

As part of our Dementia Positive project Chloe Warren (artist) painted a series of portraits of some of our members. When you’re smiling depicts six individuals associated with Bolton Dementia Support who are all in a state of wellbeing, remembering and laughing.

When you’re smiling the whole world smiles with you!

If you or someone you know has memory problems which are causing them concern why not come along to one of our sessions. You can find us on: Monday at the Victoria Hall, Bolton Town Centre from 2 – 4pm Tuesday Horwich RMI Club 2 – 4pm Wednesday Bar Lane Bowling Club 2- 4pm (New venue) We also host an evening event once a month on the last Thursday of each month from 7- 9 at St Gregory’s social club, Church St Farnworth.

There is also a support session for carers which runs alongside a planned activity session for the person being cared for at Carers Resource, Thicketford Centre, Thicketford Road, Bolton.

Please do not hesitate to ring us if you want any further information or advice: 01204 386696 or check out our website: www.allcommunity.co.uk/dementiasupportgroup.

Because, “together we CAN make a difference” Bolton Dementia Support have started a Young Onset Group for younger people with dementia. If you are struggling with your memory and are in your 40s, 50s and early 60s then come along and let us know what you want from a support group.

Bolton’s own Dementia Support Group The Dementia Support Group.

The Dementia Support Group.

Bolton Dementia Support Group

Supporting people with dementia and those who care for them.

Proud to serve the people of Bolton.

If you would like information or advice please contact:

Bolton Dementia Support Group Registered Charity No : 1123776

Carers Resource, Thicketford Road, Bolton BL2 2LW.

Bolton’s own Dementia Support Group.

Telephone: 01204 386696 www.allcommunity.co.uk/dementiasupportgroup

porting people with dementia and those who care for email: boltondsg@gmail.com them.

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A Patient Journey with Synergy Dental Group ‘A patient journey allows us to personify the efficiency of the service that we deliver within Synergy Dental Group. This journey encapsulates and amalgamates the experience each patient has with us – I expect highest standards of customer service, professionalism, presentation of information and finally the quality treatments’ says Dr Zuber Bagasi CEO of Synergy Dental Group.

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his own journey in 2007 he wanted to create an environment for his patients offering very best level of care and clinical ability.

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BEFORE

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patients can be referred to the relative clinician dependent on the treatment required. The clinics have also developed such a reputation that they have external referrals from other dentists highlighting the quality of their work.

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‘The driving factor to all our development is a comprehensive training programme and team work. When joining our team all of our staff are integrated with the Synergy values, how we operate and how we conduct ourselves, without our thorough training programme that is consistently monitored we could not express our quality of service.’

Dr Zuber Bagasi is truly an inspiration to his peers and local community – he has embraced the health care service, participates with the NHS committees, regularly attends local schools to teach children the importance of oral hygiene, gives career advice to school leavers, provides work experience to any aspiring dentists, lectures at local study circles for dentists and provides continual professional development programmes for all of his staff – the exhausting time and dedication he gives to his profession is remarkable.

The combination of the clinical excellence and service factors Dr Bagasi has implemented within all of his clinics ensures you have the very best ‘patient journey’ with Synergy Dental Group.

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63

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