DERBYSHIRE ISSUE 55

DERBYSHIRE & HIGH PEAK EDITION 55

SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2020

Sylvester Stallone

A GIANT OF THE HOLLYWOOD FILM INDUSTRY

Simpson Furniture

HELPING TO CREATE BEAUTIFUL HOMES

Dan Toombs

SHARES RECIPES FOR HIS NEW BOOK 'THE CURRY GUY LIGHT'

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CHRIS WRIGHT DENTURE CLINICS

ARE YOUR DENTURES CAUSING YOU TEETHING TROUBLES? Many denture wearers suffer with poor fitting, worn out or artificial (false) looking dentures that cause the wearer to feel a lack of confidence in their dentures.This can present itself when chewing or even by just worrying about the denture dropping during a conversation. All these are issues that ChrisWright Denture Clinics specialise in correcting.

O

ver recent years there have been many improvements in both the way we construct dentures and in the materials and denture teeth that we use.

This means that the end result looks more natural than ever before. Why not call for a FREE Consultation to find out more about these new innovations in denture design and manufacture?

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

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

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constant bone resorption dentures will become loose sooner or later.

Loose dentures will increase damage to the gums and bone structure, and increase the risk of breakage. Have them re-lined as soon as possible to get a good fit. It only takes a day or two.

Have your dentures inspected by a Clinical Dental Technician at least every two years, or more frequently if necessary.

YOUR DENTURES NEED ATTENTION 1. When they become loose.

2. When teeth or denture base discolours.

3. When tooth surfaces become flat.

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

5. When you develop deep lines around your mouth.

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

7. When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed.

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

DENTURES ON IMPLANTS This type of Denture is constructed in conjunction with the Dental Implant Surgeon. This is a very good procedure when the patient has limited control and retention of their Dentures. The finished Dentures ‘click’ into position offering the ultimate in Denture Retention.

SHOULD I HAVE A SPARE SET OF DENTURES MADE? Yes, it is very important to have a spare set of dentures for emergencies in case of breakage.

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

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

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

WHAT IS A CLINICAL DENTAL TECHNICIAN? A Clinical Dental Technician (CDT) is a qualified dental technician that has under gone

Christopher

WRIGHT

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 Christ Wright Denture Clinics to be able to be registered and regulated with the General Dental Council (the official body for protecting the public with regards to dentistry) and carry indemnity insurance.

It is this qualification, which means that only Dentists and Clinical Dental Technicians are the only Dental Professionals permitted to supply dentures 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 if

your denture provider is qualified; ask them for their GDC registration number, then contact the GDC to see if they are registered not just as a dental technician but as a CDT.

CHRIS WRIGHT DENTURE CLINICS CAN OFFER ALL ASPECTS OF DENTURE CARE INCLUDING; • Free Consultations • Denture cleaning and polishing service • Repair of broken or cracked dentures • Relining existing dentures to improve fit • New full dentures • New partial dentures (following treatment plan from dentist) * • Sports mouth guards *Dentist treatment plan can be arranged

DID YOU KNOW?

It is illegal for anyone who is not a GDC registered Dentist or Clinical Dental Technician to make a dental appliance directly to the public. This includes dentures or tooth whitening. Anyone providing these services should be reported to the General Dental Council or Trading Standards as they are practicing dentistry without the appropriate qualifications or indemnity insurance.

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TWITTERING ON

By Angela Kelly

8-9 TRAVEL

A Spanish rail adventure 10-11 TRAVEL

Quality door to door coach holidays 12-13

SYLVESTER STALLONE A giant of the Hollywood industry

18-19 HOME

Lockdown lessons we've Learned about

our homes

Travel OUR SPANISH RAIL ADVENTURE

27-29 FOOD

Recipes by Dan Toombs 31

Home

Food & Drink

LOCKDOWN LESSONS WE'VE LEARNED ABOUT OUR HOMES

RECIPES BY DAN TOOMBS

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BY ANGELA KELLY Everyday heroes for challenging times IF there’s one thing that the coronavirus pandemic has taught us it is to re-think our heroes.

The currency has become severely devalued in recent years as petulant superstars of sport, individuals paid ridiculous sums to promote products to the gullible and vacuous reality TV so-called celebrities all achieve iconic status.

Not only are those on the NHS frontline now rightly recognised for their everyday commitment to doing their very best – and far more – for us all, but the cream has definitely risen to the top as far as humanity is concerned.

Care home workers who isolated themselves for months to ensure their charges survived in isolation. Needlewomen, and men, who spent much of their lockdown sewing scrubs for health workers. Restaurants, already out of pocket over lockdown closures, opened their hearts and their kitchens to provide meals for frontline key workers. They all shone at a dark time in our national history.

Who previously would have picked out Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford as a spokesman for a generation? Yet, he displayed consistent bravery in speaking out about poverty in families.

His determination, sincerity and willingness to relate his own experiences as a youngster pricked the social conscience of everyone – including Boris Johnson who ensured needy children had meals over the Summer.

Rashford’s quiet manner and determination were one of the most affecting things about this strange and challenging time.

There were heroes in every community, though. Ordinary people who insisted on helping vulnerable residents with meals, shopping, phone calls and caring. They did this quietly, without fanfares, as simple acts of consistent human kindness that made you renew your faith in others.

Values don’t make headlines these days – they’re not a fashionable cause. But, discovering that, behind the depressing news stories of violence, selfishness and greed, 6

there was still a vital layer of real decency and morality among a huge swathe of the population has both broadened and narrowed our definition of a “hero”.

With luck, we won’t make the same mistakes of recognition again.

The royals who do justice to the name WE’VE been so busy focussing on certain worrying members of the royal family recently that we’ve forgotten just what the strengths are of “the firm.”

The year seems to have been taken up with stories of Prince Andrew’s alleged darker side and the triviality that is the new life of Prince Harry and his wife Meghan. As a result, we’ve looked away from a couple of stalwarts of the monarchy that offer enduring reassurance.

While the Queen continues to do an amazing job as head of our nation, confounding both her age and familial distractions and the Cambridges show their regal class, two others have quietly come to the fore.

Prince Charles, our future King, has slowly and rather charmingly won over the public by simply continuing to do what the House of Windsor does so well: be royal.

He has always come across as a gentle soul, a lover of nature, possibly a bit flaky and at times slightly out of touch. However, as he’s grown older and settled into his second marriage to Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, he has endeared himself to more people. Now, we can even see him as King Charles III. The other, very underestimated member of the royal family to canter up on the rails is his sister, Princess Anne. She was 70 this year and definitely more like the Queen in her stoicism.

She has been described as “single-minded, fearless, driven, devoted to duty and loyal” and is known as probably the hardest working royal. She puts in 500 engagements a year on behalf of 300 charities but her secret may be that she compartmentalises her working and private lives, regularly returning to her Gloucestershire home.

The Queen’s only daughter was the first British royal to compete in the Olympics and won BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 1971. As self-confessed non-conformists like the Duke and Duchess of Sussex show their feelings by storming out of the royal family, Princess Anne has remained within it and put her personal stamp on the job.

She won’t be Queen but, I believe, would definitely have made a good one. She considers being a member of the royal family a job like any other and simply gets on with it – without a bribe, seedy headlines or a tantrum in sight.

Zoom away the gloom this Autumn NOT very long ago if you’d said you were going on a Zoom meeting most people would assume that drugs were involved.

Now, we all understand this useful form of tech communication and Zoom is used by a surprising cross-section of people – from groups of friends to boardroom chief execs.

The fact that it’s free is also a major plus for everyone.

However, if you have Zoomed in recent months, you’ll know just how distracting people’s home backgrounds can be – and how competitive it’s now become to have the best.

While some choose an office, a pleasant living room, a bedroom or even (on fine days) the garden for their Zoom meetings, others have opted to create a virtual background of palm trees gently wafting in the breeze or other sunshine vistas. There are even companies now which will design your individual background especially for you.

My favourite is still shelves of book – some of which are recognisable and a useful additional guide to the personality of the Zoomer. Personally, I’ve got a large collage of family photos on my background wall but am considering a tropical virtual backdrop to cheer up all my Zoomees.

Of course, I could also complement this with a suitably impressive outfit. And, as I only have to worry about showing my top half during online meetings, it could be as exotic as I like.

Mind you, I’m not sure how fellow businessmen and women in my networking group would take to that. It could certainly take Zooming to a whole new level!

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in the entrance to the station. Absolutely incredible.

Arriving in Toledo, we were totally stunned by the railway station itself. An astonishing building of carved wood and sculptures, Toledo is an ancient walled city, easy to walk around, with great sightseeing.

Salamanca

Our Spanish Rail Adventure

BY DAVID PEARSON FOR SILVER TRAVEL ADVISOR Following our first enjoyable trip to Italy with Railbookers last year we wanted to try a longer trip, this time to mainland Spain. I had visited Madrid on business but wanted to return to see the sights and visit some other iconic cities with Margaret.

We knew from our last holiday with them that we could adapt any of their trips to take in everywhere we wanted to visit, and Railbookers took care of all of our arrangements. This time, we opted to fly to Madrid directly for 2 nights, then using the train, travelled onto Toledo ( 1 night ), followed by Salamanca ( 2 nights ) then on to Santiago De Compostela ( 2 nights ) and then back to Madrid for our final evening before flying back to the UK. It was not planned as such, but it became known as our “Cathedral trip of Spain” and one that we have looked back on very fondly during the subsequent months in lockdown.

We spent our first 2 nights in Madrid, visited Plaza Mayor, Royal Palace, Cathedral De La Almudena, as well as taking the open topped bus tour of the city. This is a great way to see the sights and get your bearings for the layout of a new city.

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We had a delicious lunch at Museo de Jamon near Puerta Del Sol. A charcuteria as well as a restaurant, good local cuisine and really low prices. Another recommended place to visit for local food and the experience was Mercado de San Miguel, one of the oldest and most beautiful indoor markets in this city.

The choice of Tapas was unbelievable with a vibrant atmosphere.

Next stop was Toledo, leaving from Madrid Atocha train station, just like a tropical garden

The places of interest we discovered were the Cathedral of St. Mary of Toledo, which was built in 1226, the monastery of San Juan de los Reyes and the Synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca. We also walked around the walls and looked over the views of the river at San Martins bridge Dinner in the hotel, Hotel San Juan de los Reyes, was very good where we sampled one of the local specialities, suckling pig.

We then boarded the train to travel on to Salamanca for a 2 day stay. This is a university city with 2 cathedrals at its centre. One late Gothic and the other Baroque are joined together and make for an interesting tour.

It has another stunning Plaza Mayor, which claims to be the prettiest in Spain and we would agree. It is known as the “living room” of Salamanca. A great place to eat - cheese and cured meats, and to people watch.

From our hotel it was a lovely walk over the Roman bridge into the city, The Puente Romano de Salamanca, an elegant Romanesque bridge constructed in the year 69BC, gave excellent views of the cathedrals and entrance to this city.

Next stop on the train was Santiago de Compostela. This is another fantastic cathedral city, best known for its pilgrimages and St. James.

Toledo

It has lovely, narrow, winding streets with great tapas bars and restaurants. Our favourite tapas bar was Petiscos de Cardeal, with excellent food and wine, lots of locals and a warm atmosphere.

Alameda Park was a memorable spot for walking and gave amazing views over the cathedral.

Santiago

Then back off to Madrid for our last night, returning to the same hotel, where we started.

knowledgeable Rail Experts build your own tailor made trip. All you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the journey.

Early drinks in Plaza de Santa Ana, then dinner in the hotel, with more jamon and croquetas. As you have probably already realised, food on this trip proved to be just as important and impressive as the cathedrals!

For more details visit railbookers.co.uk or call 020 3327 0862

This was another unforgettable adventure by train with brilliant organisation from Railbookers for all parts of the trip – travelling by train around Spain was seamless and we enjoyed the views of the huge variety of scenery. We also enjoyed the excellently chosen variation in hotels throughout the holiday. All had their own style, and all in great locations, with very helpful staff. They were just right for each destination. A thoroughly enjoyable Spanish adventure by rail!

Next on the list is Switzerland which we are already looking forward to in Spring 2021.

Railbookers offer an ever-expanding portfolio of holidays to destinations across Europe, the USA, Canada and beyond. Choose from one of their expertly-planned, independent holidays or let one of their

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As everyone now knows, this was Rocky, made into a blockbuster film in 1976. It became a cinematic legend and received 10 Academy Award nominations, winning Best Picture Award and triggering one of film’s most successful franchises.

Stallone was backed here by a remarkable cast including Talia Shire, Burgess Meredith and Burt Young. Director John G Avildsen brought something special to the film industry - and something special out of Stallone himself to make him one of Hollywood’s hottest stars.

Next, Stallone made F.l.S.T in 1978, loosely based on the life of Teamsters’ boss Jimmy Hoffa, and Paradise Alley that year before the boxing ring again called.

SYLVESTER STALLONE A GIANT OF THE HOLLYWOOD FILM INDUSTRY HE’S been an action man for more than 30 years and starred in everything from a beaten-up boxer with a heart to a Warburton’s bread deliveryman in a costly UK TV advert.

But there is definitely one thing that Sylvester Stallone has retained throughout his career and that is star quality.

At 74, he is still a giant of the Hollywood film industry. He is lauded by his fellow actors and with the kind of celebrity lifestyle you’d expect from such a bankable box-office star – including a multi-million dollar luxury home like the one he is currently selling in prestigious La Quinta, California.

All that, though, is a long way from his beginnings as Sylvester Enzio Stallone in New York’s infamous Hell’s Kitchen. His father was an Italian immigrant and his mother half French and half German.

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At high school, young Sly was inspired to adopt body-building into his lifestyle after watching the Steve Reeves’ film Hercules Unchained. He attended the American College of Switzerland and the University of Miami and obtained a BA degree.

But the dark-haired young man with the brooding looks had his eyes firmly set on becoming a film star.

Although he struggled to get small parts in films like thriller Klute in 1971 and comedy Bananas the same year, he had a crucial career break alongside fellow young actor Henry Winkler (later of The Fonz fame).

Together, they shared lead billing in teen gang film The Lords of Flatbush in 1974.

This showcase led to more films and TV roles, mostly uninspiring. He was, however, keen to be not just an actor but a screenwriter and he created a script about a nobody boxer given the “million to one opportunity” to fight for a heavyweight title.

Rocky Balboa lived again in Rocky II and, although subsequent screen outings Nighthawks in 1981 and Victory the same year failed to resonate greatly with audiences, in 1982 Stallone was tempted back to familiar territory with Rocky III. This film far outperformed the first Rocky sequel at the box-office but Stallone retired the boxer for a couple of years in a canny move. He was about to launch another huge franchise – John Rambo.

The Green Beret was the creation of Canadian-born writer David Morrell and his novel was adapted to the screen as First Blood in 1982 with Stallone as the troubled Vietnam veteran. This unusual film dialogue so soon after the Vietnam War proved a worldwide hit and in 1985 a sequel, Rambo: First Blood Part II, proved to be another major money-spinner.

Stallone had not finished with Rocky Balboa yet, however, and in 1985 Dolph Lundgren played a towering Russian boxer opposite him in Rocky IV. This appeared to take ring violence to a new level with Apollo Creed receiving a savage beating.

The macho roles continued for Stallone – with mixed results from critics and audiences - but he got back on track with Rocky V in 1990. A whole slew of films then followed, including futuristic offering Demolition Man in 1993 which still has

a devoted following and pops up on TV regularly.

Stallone was never frightened to take a chance, though, and in 1997 he took on a more dramatically challenging role in Cop Land with Robert De Niro and Ray Liotta. He also had a central role in brilliant animated adventure Antz in 1998 and starred in cult children’s movie Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over in 2003.

In 2006, he brought Rocky Balboa to the screen once more and then did the same for John Rambo in the 2008 film Rambo, still righting wrongs in the jungles of Thailand.

In fact, his days in screen action have continued to be far from over. In 2010, he directed, co-wrote and starred in The Expendables with Jason Statham and Dolph Lundgren heading an impressive cast of older action heroes. Again, this franchise proved very popular and led to another Expendables’ films to please the fans.

Meanwhile, Creed, too, spawned a new franchise in 2015 and 2018, with Stallone winning a Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination for his performance.

British audiences were fascinated anew in 2015 when Stallone “starred” in a TV advert for UK family-owned bread company Warburtons. This Hollywood-

style advert included footage of Stallone driving a bread van to make deliveries and running up Bolton Town Hall steps in a rousing Rocky-esque finale.

It would be easy to consider Stallone’s films and attribute all his success to his muscular physique and willingness to take

part in endless challenging stunts. But there is much more to the star.

His deep voice and often mumbling approach enhanced his appeal from his very first film. But, through countless media interviews, Stallone has also come across as a self-deprecating actor who refuses to take stardom too seriously.

He said of himself: “I’m not handsome in the classical sense. The eyes droop, the mouth is crooked, the teeth aren’t straight, the voice sounds like a Mafioso pallbearer. But somehow it all works.”

Stallone also knows that hard work is involved in creating a physique like his.

“I’m not a genetically superior person,” he has stated. “I built my body.”

But he is also a wry realist, saying: “I’m a very physical person. People don’t credit me with much of a brain. So why should I disillusion them?”

Like the old saying goes: Stallone is laughing all the way to the bank.

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SPOTLIGHT ON FOSTERING SIBLINGS FOR DERBYSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL Debra and Wayne Haigh have fostered around 20 children over nine years for Derbyshire County Council and always try to foster siblings so brothers and sisters don’t have to be separated. They offer the vital love and stability children need – as well as plenty of cuddles.

“Double the joy and double the cuddles!” that’s what Derbyshire foster carer Debra Haigh says she and husband Wayne get from helping to keep brothers and sisters together.

The couple have been fostering for 10 years and help Derbyshire County Council look after siblings whenever the opportunity comes up.

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“We fostered our first child in 2010,” explained former home-care worker Debra.

“She was six and had been split up from her sister in care and we could see what a loss that was for her.

“Since then we’ve tried to foster siblings wherever we can. These children are in care and spending time away from their parents for lots of difficult reasons and we don’t want them to have to be split up from their brothers and sisters too. We can see what a comfort it is for them to be together.

“We think it’s as easy to look after two children as one.You need to be organised and you get tired just like any parent but most of all you just need two big arms for lots of cuddles.”

Debra, 62, and Wayne who’s 59, from South Normanton in Derbyshire, both have grown-up children and grandchildren from their previous relationships and when they met in 2005 they discussed the possibility of fostering.

Since then the couple have fostered around 20 children for Derbyshire County Council.

Utility firm manager Wayne said: “Fostering changes your life so if you’re prepared to make that commitment as an individual or a couple you can multiply the experience by fostering siblings!

“When you foster brothers and sisters together, you not only see their individual development but also the growth of their sibling relationship too and the more

children you care for the more fun and enjoyment you gain.”

Like all Derbyshire County Council foster carers Debra and Wayne get support from the council’s fostering team.

“Everything is doable - we get lots of support from the council and your social worker is just on the end of the phone,” added Debra.

“Fostering means so much to me and Wayne – we give these little people the love and stability they need to lead them on to a happy life. To anyone thinking about fostering I’d say just go for it!”

Change lives – foster for Derbyshire If you’ve been inspired by Debra and Wayne’s story Derbyshire County Council’s fostering team would love to hear from you.

We’re looking for foster carers from across Derbyshire who could give children of all ages and abilities – including siblings – an opportunity that could transform their lives forever.

You don’t need any special qualifications.You just need to be aged 21 or over, have a spare room and go through some checks when you contact the council to make sure fostering is right for you before you’re assessed.

There are all kinds of fostering including full and part-time which can fit around your lifestyle, family and hobbies – including our specialist schemes paid at a higher rate equivalent to a wage to reflect the skills and experience required.

You get all the training and support you need from the council’s fostering team plus a wide range of benefits and a competitive package of financial support.

If you’d like to know more about fostering for Derbyshire or come along to one of the council’s regular ’Talk Fostering’ drop-in information events call us on 0800 083 77 44 or visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/fostering

Not every Derbyshire child has the chance to grow up in a stable loving home.

But you can change that by becoming a foster carer.

We’re looking for foster carers from across Derbyshire who could give children of all ages and abilities an opportunity that could transform their lives forever.

You don’t need any special qualifications. You just need to be aged 21 or over, have a spare room and go through a few simple checks to make sure fostering is right for you before you’re assessed.

We’ll give you all the training you need as well as a wide range of benefits and a competitive package of financial support.

If you’d like to know more about fostering for Derbyshire or come along to one of our regular ‘Talk Fostering’ events call us on 0800 083 7744 or visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/fostering

Change lives – foster for Derbyshire

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Opening in Leeds Kirkgate Market shortly

Hello there! It warms my heart to hear and read all the wonderful things that people are saying about Simpson Furniture. Our reputation is reaching far and wide, and we feel very humbled when people make a special effort to come & see us, whether it is a friend returning or having been recommended to come by a friend, relative or neighbour.

It tells us everything we need to know; it tells us we are doing something right – it says we are stocking the right products, it says that people have choice, it says we have unique accessories, it says our prices are fair and reasonable and it says that we cater for most pockets. But most of all it says that our company ethics of putting our customers first and giving them the shopping experience and service they deserve, is right up there at the top of the list for running a successful business. Whichever outlet you choose to visit, you are always welcomed like an old friend.

www.simpsonfurnitureuk.com

As most of you know, we are a family business, and not that ‘old’ in business terms; we are currently in our 4th year. We are fortunate enough to have a great team of people on board who all have the same outlook, values and innovative ideas as we do.

With the help of our loyal customers, we are still managing to go from strength to strength, even in these difficult times, and we are delighted to announce the opening of our newest outlet. This will be based in Leeds City Centre’s Kirkgate Market and is scheduled to open in late September. If you’re in the area, pop by and say hello!

Our product base is changing all the time; we are always on the lookout for new lines, new manufacturers and new suppliers, so there is always something different to see and explore.

Environmentally, we try to source products that are sustainable, and this includes our fabulous range of occasional furniture. Most of the wood used in this is either reclaimed or from a sustainable source such as Mango. It also includes our clocks made from old brick moulds, or our coat hooks made from antique wooden moulds used by cobblers from years gone by.

Exquisite contemporary & traditional suites to make a house a home.

High quality British dual motor lift and tilt chairs.

Find us:

Buxton Outlet: The Springs Shopping Centre, Buxton, SK17 6DF Showroom: Church Place, Hartley Street, Heywood OL10 1LT Bury Outlet: Bury Market Hall, 1 Murray Road, Bury, BL9 0BJ

Heywood

01706 368628

Bury

Simpson Furniture LTD

@simpsonfurnitureltd

HOME

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE

LOCKDOWN LESSONS WE’VE LEARNED ABOUT OUR HOMES WE could never really have envisaged a time when we would be incarcerated in our own homes for weeks and weeks, could we? is definitely the time to open it up and appreciate its real proportions.

New carpets or wooden flooring, mirrors and a fresh coat of paint can make it a very welcome entrance to your home once more.

SPACE is something we’ve definitely come to appreciate during those months indoors: space to home-school children, lay out jigsaws, bake or just enjoy your favourite craft hobby. So rather than complain, do something about it.

Could you build an EXTENSION, an ORANGERIE or add on a CONSERVATORY? Organisations like rated people allow you to post the job, get up to three quotes and see how other people rated individual builders.Go to www.ratedpeople.com/local/builders

As the lockdown days turned into weeks and then months, our four walls became a safe haven or a prison – depending on the individual and sometimes on the day.

So, we had plenty of time to examine our homes in minute detail and decide just how we wanted to change our surroundings. What many of us did discover is that our homes were sometimes not fit for purpose. They were too big or too small, too dark, too cluttered and just not suitable for the way we lived our lives.

The result has been a rush to estate agents to move to something more suitable or a willingness to re-think the homes in which we live and, finally, do something about them. The great thing about this latter decision is that these kinds of home improvements can actually add to the value of your property.

One of the most popular changes people are already making to the outside is for a fresh coat of paint to WALLS and the FRONT DOOR. It might even be time for a new front door now that we’re actually able to leave the house.

If you’re brightening up the property generally inside, opt for neutral shades as this allows for future plans when you might want to sell your home. A prospective buyer is better able to imaging their own lifestyle if you go for neutrality in room furnishings.

While we’re looking at neutral colours, another simple way to update your home is by painting both the exterior and interior WINDOWSILLS. Nothing says old-fashioned like wooden or stone sills and painting them gives your home a fresh look.

The HALLWAY is another area that may have become an irritant during lockdown. If it’s dark and dingy, or just simply cluttered, now 18

Try to see work your selected builder or supplier has carried out locally and talk to their customers if you can. The online world now allows all areas of opinion to be aired so you can easily find out more about what customers thought about any tradesman’s skills and value.

One thing is certain: it’s always best to go to the experts for major work at home.

Can you re-purpose specific rooms to suit your new approach to your lifestyle? Is the way you currently have your FURNITURE in particular rooms making the most of space there?

Sometimes, decluttering needs to start with furniture rather than possessions. If you have realised that your old sofa is actually uncomfortable after you’ve spent long hours watching Netflix, or your dining room table and chairs are just too bulky, consider a change if you can.

Side tables, large furniture and awkward cupboards could be replaced with streamlined, more modern items and built-in units that make the most of existing space to suit your daily lifestyle. The bonus for charity organisations like Emmaus and the British Heart Foundation is that they will often collect your unwanted items free in order to help fund their vital work.

Light has become particularly important in our homes during lockdown, especially on grey days. So, is this time for new, more modern and more efficient WINDOWS? Today’s market offers a multiplicity of styles and sizes which keep warmth in and cold out better than ever and – perhaps most importantly now – bring light into many new areas of your home.

Look at brightening up previously dark areas including landings or attics with roof windows like Velux. These help create rooms from unused part of the home and give an illusion of space in cramped areas.

Are you now WORKING from home? If so, you may have outgrown the kitchen table and long for a real office space. The key here is to create a separate office environment that makes a clear distinction between home and work.

Find the best place for your new office – a spare room or even rarely-used bedroom, for example, or just a small space you like.

Ensuring you get the most natural daylight and fresh air possible here is a must.

You’ll need enough plug sockets for your laptop and phone, drawers and/or a desk and a really good office chair. It’s worth getting the best, most ergonomic chair you can afford as you’ll be sitting in it for long periods.

Many successful home workers now have a purpose-built “shed” or separate building in the garden – it doesn’t have to be huge. Pop into stores like IKEA for home office furnishing ideas that won’t cripple your budget.

And while we’re looking at your property’s outside, GARDENS have proved really important to people’s mental and physical welfare in recent months so take a fresh look at yours.

Even the smallest outdoor space can be used well: jet-wash a garden patio to make it look bigger and brighter. Fill a bare space with big tubs of plants or quirky containers of flowers. Find cheap seating to allow you to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.

There has also been a huge upsurge in hot tub sales in the last months to make the most of outdoor living. If this - or even installing a

swimming pool – appeals to you, go to the website of the British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association (BISHTA) at bishta.co.uk for general advice and suppliers.

And enjoy your new post-lockdown home!

More than just a care home...

your home

At Bowerfield House we provide a friendly, homely atmosphere over two floors. Our highly experienced, qualified care and specialist nursing staff offer an exceptional level of care.

Bowerfield Court provides a variety of care services at its location in the centre of High Lane. The home provides high quality care in a comfortable, friendly environment.

The home provides: • Nursing & Complex Health Care Needs • Palliative Care • Brain Injury Care • Adult Disability Care • Day Care • In House Physiotherapist Assistant

We are committed to maintaining high standards of both personal and emotional care providing activities to suit each individual’s abilities, striving to improve a better quality of life.

The home provides: • Dementia Nursing Care • Respite Care Why not contact Bowerfield House to find out more.

Why not contact Bowerfield Court to find out more.

10th Feb 2020 19th Feb 2019

Bowerfield Court Care Home 3 Broadwood Close, Disley, Stockport, Cheshire SK12 2NJ

T: 01663 721464 E: bowerfield.court@mmcg.co.uk W: www.mmcgcarehomes.co.uk

for caring, responsive, effectiveness and well led.

Bowerfield House Care Home 1 Broadwood Close, Disley, Stockport, Cheshire SK12 2NJ

T: 01663 721465 E: bowerfield.house@mmcg.co.uk W: www.mmcgcarehomes.co.uk

19

We are working to all Government Covid-19 advice and social distancing guidlines

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PD Groundworks & Resin are a family run business and a leading installer of outdoor drives, patios and pathways.

“We install the full range of outdoor surface works and are so confident with our work we will provide a 10 Year Guarantee as standard.” Said Paul, “Our team has over 20 years experience in undertaking high quality projects throughout the North West and we cover from Liverpool to Hull and from Nottingham to Newcastle. Our teams of four in each team are highly skilled and work efficiently to ensure you get maximum value for money.”

As a company, PD Groundworks specialise in Resinbound paving which in comes in a vast range of colours...... 45 in total, which is the largest choice of any Installer In the UK. “We even have the option to have a bespoke colour mixed for you! We use a mixture of Superior aggregate stones and resin to pave driveways, footpaths, patios, etc. The materials we use are permeable which allows water to pass through which avoids pools of water building. It is the perfect paving solution to give your home the ultimate WOW finish. All our work is done to standards recognised by UK Building control organisations, insurers, local authorities and the construction Industry associations,” said Danny.

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Resin-bound paving is a fully permeable paving solution which allows water to freely drain through the surface.

Their work meets the requirements of the Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) standards, this helps to prevent standing water and largely eliminates surface water to pool. “Our specialist experienced surveyors will discuss all aspects of the project from the outset before passing over to the project team leaders. We take great care to understand your requirements, listen to your concerns and only then will we provide an accurate cost that suits your budget” said Tony.

“Over 50% of our work comes from customer recommendation” As a company - PD Groundworks are very proud of the excellent customer reviews they receive regularly from very happy customers; “Excellent workmanship excellent service wish I had more work for Dan to do such a happy chap.”

Steve Feather

When it comes to the ultimate hard wearing driveway - resin is the perfect flexible surfacing material, it is resistant to cracking in all temperatures.

“We cannot recommend PD Groundworks enough.

From the very beginning when talking to Joanne on the phone, Tony who measured and priced up through to the completion of the job everything ran like clockwork. The workmen were extremely conscientious in their work and organised.”

Jan Tuff Their natural aggregates are also environmentally friendly and a full design, measurement and consultancy service is provided from start to finish.

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21

MOTORING

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE

STEVE HOWARTH'S TEST DRIVE

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF 8 THE word icon is used an awful lot these days and very often with little or no justification - but in this case I think it is well deserved.

The VW Golf changed the car market forever when it was first introduced in the mid-1970s replacing the venerable rear engine, air cooled Beetle.

Front wheel drive and with a hatchback the Golf was ground-breaking and went straight to the top of the sales charts for family cars.

It has remained the benchmark motor for hatchbacks for 46 years, constantly upgraded and developed until we get to 2020 and the Golf 8, our latest test car.

Still good value at £23,900 our entry level Golf Life 1.5 TSi 130ps 6-speed manual came with a couple of extras including one I could certainly live without… a dazzling Lime Yellow metallic paint job (£625) and one I would say was worth the extra cash – a great sat nav/infotainment system on the 10” central touchscreen (£1,600).

For the eighth generation a lot of dashboard switches are replaced by that central touchscreen system, which is linked to a digital dashboard similar to VW’s Audi stablemates that can change at the flick of a switch to various different displays.

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You can switch between the more important menus via small shortcut ‘buttons’ underneath the screen and the setup is fairly easy to navigate – although it did take me a while to turn the AC fan down. The digital instruments are clear and provide useful additional warning and prompts without overloading the driver.

Another plus is adaptive cruise control and wireless phone connectivity and charging which are both standard fit, even at the lower trim level of our test car.

Other standard features include: keyless start, heated door mirrors with puddle lights plus exterior door handle lighting, electronic parking brake with hill hold, all round parking sensors and rear camera, auto lights and wipers, stop-start fuel saving technology and a whole raft of the safety features we have come to expect from VW. Another clever trick the Golf can perform is shutting down two of its 4 cylinders when not required to give great mpg figures – up to 61.5. It is amazing just how seamless this is – in the old days you knew when your car was not firing on all cylinders but the only sign here is a message on that digital dashboard.

On a 250-mile round trip to a new car launch in Warwickshire I actually managed

to better VW’s claimed mpg with the car showing an overall figure for the journey of around 66 which, from a 129bhp 1.5-litre turbocharged, non-hybrid petrol hatchback is impressive.

Possible VW’s aerodynamic body style revisions for the 8 contribute to this achievement. The car’s still recognisably a Golf from the side but at the back and front things are more cutting edge.

Engine wise petrol options range from a 108bhp 1.0-litre TSI three-cylinder turbo, though several 1.5-litre TSI four-cylinder turbos and 2.0-litre TDI diesels with 113 and 148bhp. VW has added 48-volt mildhybrid technology although for now only on the higher spec 148bhp eTSi. VW say a 241bhp Golf GTE along with GTi, GTD and R models are to follow.

So will this latest Golf reclaim the top dog slot for VW in both UK and global sales?

Well despite all the new stuff it sticks to what has always been the reason so many people drive a Golf – it does everything well in an understated way and should be a very easy car to live with.

For more details see ww.vw.co.uk

driver’s seat, heated seats and heated steering wheel, 10.25 inch touchscreen infotainment system with satellite navigation and front parking sensors.

The Kia Niro ‘4’ spec features all that of the ‘3’ spec, but adds a sliding power sunroof, LED headlights, heated passenger seats and ventilated front seats.

On the twisty Yorkshire B roads, and bypasses, the car proved pleasant and easy to drive; and at £27,100 for the Kia Niro ‘3’ spec, is certainly good value.

Also impressive is the Kia 7 year / 100,000 miles warranty, which means peace of mind for those looking for long-term ownership.

KIA NIRO HYBRID

Kia already knows their Kia Niro is a winner as the all-electric version – the Kia e-Niro - is currently the Northern Car Journalist’s Car of the Year.

Kia has come a long way in the UK in just a few decades, and none of their models show this more that the popular Kia Niro Self-Charging Hybrid.

Members of the Northern Group of Motoring Writers (including yours truly) voted the compact crossover as its top car for 2019-20, beating strong competition.

They judged the Kia e-Niro to be a truly practical electric vehicle, with a real world fully charged range of between 250 and 300 miles and excellent performance from its 201bhp electric motor.

At a recent Kia driving day, where all Kia UK models were on show, I was able to drive the latest Kia Niro Self-Charging Hybrid, which had a 1.6ltr petrol engine and electric motor to give mpg figures of over 60, with impressively low emissions.

This means the Kia Niro Self-Charging Hybrid is a great choice for those looking to get the most from their motoring at the least cost, both to the pocket and planet.

You would not know the car is a hybrid vehicle at first, as it handles just like a normal crossover/small SUV with the electric motor, seamlessly, cutting in and out.

Performance is good with 0 to 60mph taking 11.1 seconds and a top speed of 101mph, thanks to 139bhp being on tap.

The car decides on power delivery as circumstances dictate – there is no mode switch as in other cars – so it can cruise along in electric only until you put your foot down or at low speeds around town.

The recent facelift has seen a few external changes, with different bumpers and a revised grille, plus re-designed headlights

and tail lights. What hasn’t changed is the impressive range of specifications as standard.

The latest Kia Niro Self-Charging Hybrid range starts from a ‘2’ spec, and includes 16-inch alloy wheels, black part cloth and leather upholstery, 8.0-inch infotainment screen (though no satellite navigation), reversing camera, rear parking sensors and a wireless phone charger, which works with certain phone models.

Upgrade to the Kia Niro ‘3’ spec, which was the one I test drove, and you get 18inch alloy wheels, LED front fog lights, full leather upholstery, electrically adjustable

Members also felt it was a more practical family car, compared to electric vehicles from other manufacturers as it can charge up to 80 per cent on a normal domestic UK socket in less than 10 hours, with a rapid charger possibly lowering charge time to less than one hour.

So, it is not hard to see why there are now so many Kia vehicles on our roads as the brand continues to deliver vehicles like the Kia Niro range, which are cutting edge, good value both to buy and own and easy to live with.

By Motoring Editor Steve Howarth For more information see www.kia.co.uk/bolton.

FOR ALL THE LATEST CAR TESTS GO TO: www.50plusmagazine.co.uk/motors 23

FINANCE

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE

A SECURE FUTURE WITH

EQUITY RELEASE? THESE days we have to look at a variety of ways to raise cash and ensure that our future will be secure and one popular way for anyone over 55 to do just that is via equity release, which offers the chance to access the cash – the equity – tied up in your home. It can be as a lump sum or in several small amounts, or a combination of both.

There are two equity release options: lifetime mortgage and home reversion.

The Money Advice Service explains that a LIFETIME MORTGAGE means that you take out a mortgage secured on your property, provided it is your main residence, while retaining ownership.

You can choose to ring-fence some of the value of your property as an inheritance for your family or you can choose to make repayments or let the interest roll-up. The loan amount and any accrued interest is paid back when you die or when you move into long-term care.

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Most people who take out equity release use a lifetime mortgage. Usually you don’t have to make any repayments while you’re alive and interest “rolls up” (unpaid interest is added to the loan), meaning the debt can increase quite quickly over a period of time. However, some lifetime mortgages do now offer the option to pay all or some of the interest. Some will let you pay off the interest and the capital.

In the same way ordinary mortgages vary from lender to lender, so do lifetime mortgages, and if you’re looking at this option it’s worth knowing that the minimum age for this is usually 55. As we’re now all living longer, the earlier you start the more this is likely to cost in the long run.

The average borrower in their late 60s can usually borrow around 35% of the value of their home, but how much can be released is dependent on your age and the value of your property. The percentage typically increases according to your age when you take out

the lifetime mortgage, while some providers might offer larger sums to those with certain past or present medical conditions. Many lenders offer interest rates which are fixed or, if they are variable, have a “cap” or upper limit which is fixed for the loan’s duration.

Check whether the product has a “no negative equity guarantee” This means that, when your property is sold and agents’ and solicitors’ fees have been paid, even if the amount left is not enough to repay the outstanding loan to your provider neither you nor your estate will be liable to pay any more.

Consider whether you can pay none, some or all of the interest. If you can make repayments, the mortgage will be less costly. However, with a lifetime mortgage where you can make monthly payments, the amount you can repay might be based on your income. Providers will have to check you can afford these regular payments.

Look at whether you can withdraw the equity you’re releasing in small amounts, as and when you need it, or whether you have to take it as one lump sum. The advantage of being able to take money out in smaller amounts is you only pay the interest on the amount you’ve withdrawn. If you can take smaller lump sums, check if there is a minimum amount.

It’s also worth finding out if you have the right to move to another property, subject to the new property being acceptable to your product provider as continuing security for your equity release loan, as different lifetime mortgage providers might have slightly different thresholds.

A HOME REVERSION involves you selling part or all of your home to a home reversion provider in return for a lump sum or regular payments.You have the right to continue living in the property until you die, rent-free, but you have to agree to maintain and insure it.

You can ring-fence a percentage of your property for later use, possibly for

inheritance - the percentage you retain will always remain the same, regardless of the change in property values, unless you decide to take further cash releases. At the end of the plan, your property is sold and the sale proceeds are shared according to the remaining proportions of ownership.

You will get a lump sum or regular payments – normally between 20 per cent and 60 per cent of the market value of your home, or the part you sell.

With home reversions, it’s worth checking whether or not you can release equity in several payments or in one lump sum and the minimum age at which you can take out a home reversion plan. Some providers insist you’re at least 60 or 65 before you can apply.

Keep in mind the percentage of the market value you will receive. This will increase the older you are when you take out the plan but might vary from provider to provider.

Also check whether you have the right to remain in your property for life or until you need to move to long-term care, provided the property remains your main residence

and you abide by the terms and conditions of your contract.

Again, check whether you have the right to move to another property, subject to the new property being acceptable to your product provider as continuing security for your equity release loan and whether the product has a “no negative equity guarantee”.You will also need to know what level of maintenance you’ll be expected to carry out and how often your property will be inspected – this could be every few years.

Overall, equity release might seem like a good option if you want some extra money and don’t want to move house, but it’s worth bearing in mind that equity release can be more expensive in comparison to an ordinary mortgage. It’s also worth considering any additional changes taking out equity release could make to existing arrangements, with the potential to lose means-tested benefits being key among them. It’s also worth considering involving your family throughout the process, as any equity taken out of the home will impact their inheritance later down the line.

Unlock tax-free cash from your home

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with the UK’s No.1 equity release advisor*

Tax-free cash to spend as you wish

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No monthly repayments required

Speak to one of our advisors for your free, no obligation quotation and to find out how much tax-free cash you can access to spend as you wish. They will explain how equity release could affect the amount of inheritance you can leave and if your entitlement to means-tested benefits could be affected now or in the future.

Equity release may involve a home reversion plan or a lifetime mortgage which is secured against your property. To understand the features and risks ask for your personalised illustration. Equity release requires paying off any existing mortgage. Any money released, plus accrued interest, would be repaid upon death or moving into long-term care. Only if your case completes would a typical fee of 2.25% of the amount released be payable (minimum £1,695).

1 You only continue to own your own home with a lifetime mortgage. *UK’s No1, based on volume of plans, source: Touchstone data 2018 - Q1 2020.

To find out how much money you could release and to request your FREE guide call

Freephone 0800 141 3628 Age Partnership Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA registered number 425432. Company registered in England and Wales No. 5265969. Company address: Age Partnership Limited, 2200 Century Way, Thorpe Park, Leeds, LS15 8ZB. VAT registration number 162 9355 92.

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insurance providers, having undertaken due diligence also insure for the process.

Keen to avoid an operation, Andrew decided it was worth trying and made an appointment with Phil Heler at Buxton Osteopathy Clinic.

“After the first treatment I didn’t feel it had made any difference, so I was still sceptical,” says Andrew. “But I went back for the second treatment and the next day I didn’t have a headache – for the first time in a long, long time.

“Although it did come back, I went for the third treatment and I haven’t had a headache since.”

IDD THERAPY; A NEW INNOVATION IN THE TREATMENT OF BACK PAIN For the first time since 2012, company director Andrew Stubbs is enjoying a life free from crushing daily headaches.

He achieved this by undergoing a new treatment called IDD Therapy.This is a new targeted treatment which relieves pressure on specific spinal discs and gently restores mobility.

Treatments like osteopathy, physiotherapy, massage, acupuncture and visits to a chiropractor had not succeeded in addressing that Andrew’s issue which traces back to a traumatic injury after a heavy-duty gardening session in 2012 “I had been doing a lot of work, clearing trees and sawing up logs by hand,” he says.

“At first, I thought I had cricked my neck, but then it turned into headaches – and it’s been much worse for the past three or four years.

“The headaches were really debilitating – sometimes it felt like my head was going to burst. It seemed to be worse in the evenings, when I got home from work. It was making me really irritable.”

A series of tests, including X-rays, a CT scan and finally an MRI scan diagnosed two

protruding discs in his neck at C3-C4 and C5-C6 Andrew had been taking anti-inflammatory and analgesics to help relief the pain for several years: “It did help with the pain, but you aren’t supposed to stay on it for very long. My doctor said maybe it was time to go to a specialist and look at surgery.”

Fortunately, around this time, his wife Emma had been researching possible alternatives on the internet and discovered IDD - Intervertebral Differential Dynamics – therapy offered at the Buxton Osteopathy Clinic.

Andrew travelled to Buxton from his Swadlincote home, a distance of 50 miles one-way to complete a series of 10 treatments over 5 weeks. Despite this he says it was well worth the drive: “I feel like a new man. I would definitely recommend IDD – it has made a massive difference.”

The clinic is the only centre in Derbyshire to offer the therapy and has been providing effective relief for several years: “It’s very rewarding to be able to help people who are in serious difficulty,” says Phil.

“IDD won’t cure every back problem, but where appropriate it can be very effective. It really is a genuine, non-invasive alternative to surgery - avoiding the risk of postoperative infections and bleeding.”

Offering an alternative to surgery, IDD works by applying computer-controlled forces at precise angles to draw targeted spinal segments apart, relieving pressure on discs and trapped nerves and easing muscles and ligaments.

The doctor hadn’t heard of it and Andrew was sceptical. However, IDD Therapy is well supported by clinical evidence and anecdotally by the many patients who benefitted from the process using the network of 40 clinics nationwide. AVIVA healthcare, one of the UK’s major health

www.buxtonosteopathy.co.uk T: (01298) 214994 Buxton Osteopathy Clinic, 7 Bridge Street, Buxton, SK17 6BS 26

FOOD & DRINK

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE

SEAFOOD THENGA PAAL SOUP If you want to impress someone with your cooking, this recipe will do it. On a trip to Kochi (Cochin) in Kerala, my wife and I were invited to one of the most amazing meals at Trilogi, in the Crowne Plaza, Kochi.The food was both visually exciting and delicious.This seafood soup was the starter course and I just had to get the recipe! The soup we tried was creamier, which can be achieved by adding a couple of tablespoons of single cream or full fat coconut milk, but I find this lowcalorie version equally delicious.

Serves 2 PREP TIME: 15 MINS COOKING TIME: 45 MINS 500g (1lb 2oz) fish bones from non-oily fish such as bream, bass or halibut 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 2.5cm (1-inch) piece of ginger, peeled and julienned 1 medium onion, sliced 10 fresh or frozen curry leaves 1 tomato, sliced 2 tbsp rapeseed (canola) oil or coconut oil 150g (51⁄2oz) minced seafood (choose a good selection of meaty fish, such as prawns, cod and halibut) 1 tsp asafoetida* 1⁄2 tsp ground turmeric 10g (1⁄4oz) tender fresh coconut, cut into small cubes (optional) 80ml (1⁄3 cup) light coconut milk Salt, to taste Juice of 1⁄2 lemon 11⁄2 tbsp tamarind paste or concentrate (more or less, to taste) 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper 2 tbsp finely chopped coriander (cilantro)

Place the fish bones in a large saucepan and add the garlic, ginger, onion, curry leaves and tomato. Cover with 2 litres (8 cups) of water and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes until the water has reduced to about 1/2 litre (2 cups). Strain the fish stock through a fine-mesh sieve and set aside.

In a separate saucepan, heat the oil over a medium–high heat and stir in the seafood. Add the asafoetida and turmeric and give it all a good stir to combine, then add the reduced fish stock. Bring back to the boil, then add the coconut (if using). Reduce the heat so that the soup is just simmering, then stir in the coconut milk.

Season withsalt and add the lemon juice. Stir in tamarind paste or concentrate and black pepper. To serve, pour into two warmed bowls and sprinkle with the coriander.

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SRI LANKAN BLACK PEPPER CHICKEN CURRY One of my favourite curries to this day is the black pepper chicken curry I enjoyed at the restaurant Nuga Gama at The Cinnamon Grand Hotel in Columbo, Sri Lanka.What a place! This is my interpretation of that curry. I believe their version was made with the back bones of chicken and wings that were cut into small pieces. I loved picking up these small bones and gnawing at the meat. It took some work to eat, but it was worth it. All the curries at Nuga Gama were cooked and presented in clay pots. I was determined to do that same.

It’s not easy carrying a big clay pot back in your hand luggage, but as you can see, I got it back!

Heat the oil in a large wok or frying pan over a medium–high heat until bubbling hot. Add the mustard seeds and when they begin to crackle (after about 30 seconds), reduce the heat to medium and stir in the cinnamon, cumin seeds, cloves, bay leaves and curry leaves.

Add the chopped onions and fry for 6–7 minutes until they begin to turn a light brown colour, then add the green chillies, black pepper and the other ground spices.

Spoon in the garlic and ginger paste and soy sauce and stir to combine. Add the chicken pieces and brown them for about 5 minutes. Add the green peppers, tomatoes and sliced onion and cover the pan. Cook for 5–10 minutes: the chicken and vegetables will release their moisture (a pinch of salt will help with the process). Pour in the coconut milk and simmer until you are happy with the consistency: this dish can be served either with a lot of sauce or it can be reduced down. Season with salt and perhaps a little more black pepper.

Extracted from The Curry Guy Light by Dan Toombs (Quadrille, £15) Photography © Kris Kirkahm

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Serves 4-6 PREP TIME: 15 MINS COOKING TIME: 30 MINS 2 tbsp rapeseed (canola) oil 1 tsp black mustard seeds 1 cinnamon stick 1 tsp cumin seeds 3 cloves 2 bay leaves About 20 fresh or frozen curry leaves 2 onions, finely chopped 3 green chillies (whichever type you prefer) 1–2 tbsp finely ground black pepper (to taste) 5 green cardamom pods, smashed 1 tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder 2 tbsp garlic and ginger paste 1 tbsp soy sauce (this usually contains gluten) or tamari gluten-free soy sauce 1kg (2lb 4oz) chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces 2 sweet green (bell) peppers, sliced 20 cherry tomatoes, quartered 1 onion, thinly sliced 400ml (scant 13⁄4 cups) low-fat coconut milk Salt, to taste

Visit heart us for y and refood a ales! l

THE STRINES INN Despite being within Sheffield's border, the Strines Inn could be a world away. Nestled amongst breathtaking moorland scenery, it is one of the local landmarks in the Peak District National Park.

RED LENTIL & TOMATO DHAL One good thing about this Goan recipe dhal is that it cooks really quickly – a lot faster than other dhals – and still tastes fantastic.This makes a lovely side dish but can also be a delicious and light main meal on its own.

Serves up to 8 PREP TIME: 10 MINS, PLUS SOAKING TIME. COOKING TIME: 25 MINS 2 tbsp rapeseed (canola) oil or coconut oil 1 tsp black mustard seeds 1⁄2 tsp cumin seeds 7 fresh or frozen curry leaves 2 medium onions, finely chopped 2 medium tomatoes, diced 2–3 green bird’s eye chillies, sliced down the middle 2 tbsp garlic and ginger paste 1 tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder (more or less, to taste) 3 tbsp tomato purée 300g (11⁄2 cups) dried red split lentils (masoor dhal), rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes in fresh water 1.2 litres (5 cups) water Salt, to taste 2 tbsp finely chopped coriander (cilantro)

Heat the oil in a large saucepan over a high heat. When visibly hot, stir in the mustard seeds. When they begin to pop (after about 30 seconds), reduce the temperature to medium–high and add the cumin seeds and curry leaves. Temper for 30 seconds, or until fragrant, then add the onions and fry for about 5 minutes, until soft and translucent.

Add the tomatoes, green chillies, garlic and ginger paste, ground turmeric, Kashmiri chilli powder and tomato purée and give it all a good stir to combine. Tip in the lentils and cover with the water.

Bring to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and you are happy with the consistency.

Season with salt and garnish with the coriander to serve.

Originally a manor house, it was built in 1275 for the Worrall family, although most of the present day structure is 16th Century. After becoming an Inn in 1771 when John Morton leased the property from the Worrall's, it got its name from an Olde English word meaning the meeting of water, quite appropriate as nowadays it overlooks the Strines Reservoir.

In the height of Summer the Inn attracts hundreds of visitors on a daily basis. The glorious sunshine and stunning views perfectly compliment the excellent food and drink available, with many dishes being homemade.

The Strines Inn is also famous for its numerous peacocks, the previous Landlord having introduced several pairs twenty years ago, there are now over thirty of them.

There is also accommodation available for those people looking to escape for a few days to relax. Our rooms all feature four-poster beds, en-suite bathrooms, hot drinks facilities and colour televisions. Each has a dining table where breakfast will be served to you, offering you comfort and privacy. Two of our rooms have fantastic views across the reservoir, so please ask if you would like a room with a view.

• • •

Four-poster bed En-suite facilities Breakfast included

THE STRINES INN BRADFIELD DALE, SHEFFIELD S6 6JE TEL: 01142 851247 www.thestrinesinn.co.uk 29

HEALTH

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE

Be more humble…by focusing less on what you don’t have like the latest trainers or the summer holiday that you wanted to take and try to take a few moments each day to appreciate how fortunate you are, perhaps in having good health, or a secure job, or friends and family who check in on you. By practicing gratitude and asking for less, we can build our sense of self-worth and better our physical well-being and reduce our levels of stress.

TIPS ON INCREASING RESILIENCE POST LOCKDOWN

family member’s confidence and self-esteem by playing to your strengths. Are you a fantastic leader, baker, runner, organiser, teacher or gardener?

Change is inevitable but huge global changes like we are facing today can overtake all of our resilience reserves. However if we can build our resilience to face new challenges, ultimately we can grow, we increase our empathy and compassion, find purpose, reconnect, reduce burnout, and ultimately improve our physical and mental health. Try making resilience one of your five a day!

Build resilience by...Leading a healthy lifestyle including regular physical exercise, a good sleeping pattern, low stress and a healthy diet. For example, a lack of quality sleep can weaken our emotional mental wellbeing and therefore our resilience. Exercise on the other hand helps to alleviate stress by reducing cortisol and norepinephrine whilst releasing feel good endorphins, dopamine and serotonin that may offset feelings of anxiety and negative self-talk.

Build resilience by...Having a plan.

Plan for just today or perhaps the week ahead. Address important issues so they are dealt with. Careful time management and organisation are key and makes your capacity to recover from difficulties quicker. Work out your new normal. Routines help most of us feel in control whether we are a child or an adult but be sure to throw in a lot of time for fun and laughter.

Build resilience by...Adopting positive thinking. Accept that we don’t know how long the challenges we face are going to be for but know that this difficult period will end.

Whilst we should all be allowed to feel how we feel, it is shown that those who face adversity with a positive mindset, deal with stress and problems better and have a better health outcome long term. Talk to other people with a positive mindset rather than those who drain you. Stay social and focus on what brings you enjoyment and fun.

Build resilience by...Playing to your strengths. What can you do right now that you are really good at? Boost your and your 30

Build resilience by...Taking your time. One positive effect of lockdown is it forced many of us to slow down so try to keep elements of this new pace of life to have a good work/ life balance. Focus on the key priorities because everything does not need to be done at once. Avoid rushing big decisions, instead prioritise the issues which need to be acted upon first. Perhaps get up more slowly in the morning, have a longer down time before going to bed, make weekends a time of quality time with friends and family and establish device free time.

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING HUMBLE POST LOCKDOWN More now than ever, when people around us are struggling with health worries, unemployment and a host of other losses, anxieties, or difficulties, it is an important time to try and be more humble and to think of one another. Make being humble one of your five a day.

Be more humble… by understanding that this year in particular has hit some of us harder than others. Even though our experiences are different, it really is important that we deeply consider the feelings and wellbeing of friends, colleagues, neighbours and family whenever possible.

Who can you help?

Be more humble… by valuing and listening to others. We should spend time talking to loved ones, friends, colleague and our children, asking them questions, listening to how they are feeling and giving them an opportunity to express themselves. Giving your time can the greatest gift of all.

Be more humble…by checking yourself when you feel the need to self-promote.

Rather than showing off what you have, a humble person is more likely to share what they have and consider other people’s feelings if they are unable to have the same good fortune. Perhaps consider how posting on social media about how you are having the absolutely best time might make others struggling only feel worse.

Be more humble… by admitting you don’t have all the answers and don’t be afraid to ask for help. There is no shame in reaching out and learning from, and being helped by, others. All we have to do then is reciprocate. www.drlyndashaw.com

CHIROPRACTIC CARE

What Is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractors use a range of techniques to reduce pain, improve function and increase mobility, including hands-on manipulation of the spine. As well as manual treatment, chiropractors are able to offer a package of care which includes advice on self-help, therapeutic exercises and lifestyle changes.

When we talk about chiropractic care, it’s important to understand that the nervous system and spine are integral to your long-term health. The spine should move in a certain way and continuously during the day. As humans, we sit too much and don’t move enough. It starts to affect the function of the spine and can impair brain function. And since the brain is the master system of the body it can begin to have a negative effect on those areas.

Chiropractic treatment involves safe, often gentle, specific spinal manipulation to free joints in the spine or other areas of the body that are not moving properly. Apart from manipulation, chiropractors may use a variety of techniques including ice, heat, ultrasound, exercise and acupuncture as well as advice about posture and lifestyle.

“I’m in pain” “Can Chiropractic help me?”

Your initial visit will include: • A private consultation with chiropractor • X rays if necessary (normally £70) • Spinal examination, orthopaedic and neurological tests • A confidential report of our findings • An explanation of our treatments procedure if we determine Chiropractic can help you

BACK PAIN Back pain is very common. Most people will suffer one or more episodes of back pain during their lives. In many cases, it starts suddenly and gets better quickly, without the need for any treatment.

However, back pain can be painful, debilitating and persistent, and some people suffer repeated episodes. It can also be associated with other symptoms, such as leg pain or sciatica. It may start following a specific incident, such as bending awkwardly or lifting a heavy weight.

Or it can develop gradually, perhaps as a result of poor posture, an uncomfortable work position or repetitive strain.

NECK PAIN Neck pain is very common. Most people will suffer one or more episodes of neck pain during their lives. In many cases, it starts suddenly and gets better quickly, without the need for any treatment.

However, neck pain can be painful, debilitating and persistent, and some people suffer repeated episodes. It can also be associated with other symptoms, such as arm pain or headaches. Neck pain may start following a traumatic incident, such as a road traffic collision, or it may start gradually, perhaps as a result of poor posture or an uncomfortable work position.

OFFER PRICE £35 Expiry date 30th November 2020

For a limited period we will complete a full consultation, examination, X ray (if necessary) and a full report of findings all for

£35.00 (Normally £120.00) Offer open to new patients only. *please quote 50plus offer*

We treat these conditions • Headaches, back pain, neck pain • Prevention of migraines • Muscle spasms, joint pain • Tired all the time, tension

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms please call our clinic today for an appointment

Marple Chiropractic Clinic 8-10 Derby Way, Marple SK6 7AH 0161 449 5006 www.chiropractichealthsolutions.co.uk Stockport Chiropractic Clinic 466 Didsbury Road, Heaton Mersey, SK4 3BS 0161 432 6708

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Escape To The Country, One Move. Many Benefits.

Coastal | Rural | Woodland

Introducing Modern Park Home Living.

Pottering around in your own private garden. Strolling along the beach or through beautiful countryside. Living in a brand new, fully furnished home that has been designed by you. And enjoying life within a safe and secure community, exclusively for the over 45’s*. Plus, part exchange and assisted move schemes to get you moved in quickly. Life just got better!

Learn more about modern park home living at one of our 26 parks across the country. *Dependent upon park rules. Contact us for confirmation.

To claim your FREE Beginners’ Guide to Park Home Living call 01933 427800 or email info@tingdene.net

www.tingdene-parks.net