Derbyshire Issue 66 by 50 Plus Magazine

DERBYSHIRE & HIGH PEAK EDITION 66

JANUARY - MARCH 2024

Peter Kay

BORN TO BE FUNNY

James Martin’s SPANISH ADVENTURE

An evening with Rick Stein

AT THE BUXTON OPERA HOUSE & PAVILION ARTS CENTRE

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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.

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 constant bone resorption dentures will become loose sooner or later. 2

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.

MY DENTURES HAVE BECOME LOOSE!

YOUR DENTURES NEED ATTENTION

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.

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.

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

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.

HEALTH | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE CONSTRUCTING A GOOD SET OF DENTURES Constructing a functional and aesthetically pleasing set of dentures is the most difficult task in dentistry. We are not only replacing lost teeth, but also lost tissue matter and bone. In other words, we have to re-create your facial features as they were before the loss of your natural teeth. In most cases we do not know what your teeth looked like, what size they were or what position they were in originally. We have a few indications but mostly we have to rely on our visual and artistic judgement. At the same time we have to use our technical expertise in order to make the denture stable and functional. Denture construction is more art than science.

WHAT IS A CLINICAL DENTAL TECHNICIAN? A Clinical Dental Technician (CDT) is a qualified dental technician that has under gone further Education and Training in areas such as Medical Emergencies Cross Infection Control and Oral Pathology (cancers and anomalies) to name just a few sections that make up the

Christopher

WRIGHT

Diploma in Clinical Dental Technology as Awarded by the Royal Collage of Surgeons (RCS). It is this qualification that allows the clinicians at Chris Wright Denture Clinics to be able to be registered and regulated with the General Dental Council (the official body for protecting the public with regards to dentistry) and carry indemnity insurance. It is this qualification, which means that only Dentists and Clinical Dental Technicians are the only Dental Professionals permitted to supply dentures direct to the public. A dental technician is not qualified to supply a denture directly to the public. However, despite this being an act of Mal practice many technicians will still practice illegally without informing the patient that they are not qualified. If you are unsure if your denture provider is qualified; ask them

for their GDC registration number, then contact the GDC to see if they are registered not just as a dental technician but as a CDT.

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

DID YOU KNOW?

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

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Macclesfield Denture Clinic,1 Mill Lane, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 7NN Telephone: 01625 511131 3

50 PLUS MAGAZINE

CONTENTS | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE Visit heart us for y and refood a ales! l

Celebrity Feature

THE STRINES INN

PETER KAY, BORN TO BE FUNNY

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.

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.

ve r s

6-7

TWITTERING ON By Angela Kelly

8-9

TRAVEL A weekend in Frankfurt

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.

14-15

CELEBRITY FEATURE Peter Kay, born to be funny

21-23

HOME 24 ways to improve your home

24-25

STEVE HOWARTH’S TEST DRIVE The DS7 LA Premiere and the KGM Tivoli

26-29

FOOD James Martin’s Spanish Adventure

• • •

Four-poster bed En-suite facilities Breakfast included

THE STRINES INN BRADFIELD DALE, SHEFFIELD S6 6JE TEL: 01142 851247 www.thestrinesinn.co.uk 4

IN THIS ISSUE

In the height of Winter the Inn attracts walkers and visitors on a daily basis. The roaring fires and stunning views perfectly compliment the excellent food and drink available, with many dishes being homemade.

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.

Travel A WEEKEND IN FRANKFURT

Bridgeman House 77 Bridgeman Street | Bolton | BL3 6BY. Sales Enquiries : T: (01204) 238180 E: artwork@mcgrathmedia.co.uk

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TWITTERING ON | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

TWITTERING ON By Angela Kelly -

sound quite the same

because x’ing on doesn’t

This includes a police commitment to prioritise urgently attending incidents of shoplifting involving violence against a shop worker, where security staff have detained an offender or where they need to secure evidence. Police will assess such incidents based on risk with prolific or juvenile offenders being “treated with elevated priority.” A new specialist police team is also being created to build a comprehensive intelligence picture of the organised crime gangs behind many shoplifting incidents across the country.

Tackling shoplifting is a major priority in 2024

CCTV now plays a large part in both capture and prosecution of offenders and it’s hoped that improvements in the way police and businesses share information will also start to reduce incidents.

ONE thing most of us would probably like to see less of in 2024 is shoplifting.

Chris Philp called the new initiative “a zero tolerance approach” to this “blight on our high streets.”

During 2023, this already worrying trend mushroomed into a regular, frightening and costly occurrence, often involving violence towards staff and anyone else brave enough to intervene.

Let’s hope this latest initiative really works. We simply cannot allow shoplifting to escalate even further than it already has. It’s turning high streets and corner shops into battlegrounds and customers are paying the price.

It is now costing retailers in the UK more than £1 billion a year – yes, that does read £1 billion – and it would be naïve to think that it is a victimless crime that multi-million pound businesses can easily absorb.

Sir Cliff is still a top entertainer after 60-plus years WHAT a remarkable entertainer Sir Cliff Richard is!

The reality, of course, is that the cost of shoplifting is passed on to the retailer: you and me.

At 83, he’s just come to the end of his highly successful Blue Sapphire Tour and, in true superstar mode, is also releasing a concert film of the tour.

Goods of all kinds automatically cost more on the shelves to make up the shortfall caused by these thefts which has to be paid by someone (us) along with the added cost of any new initiatives retailers bring in to try to combat shoplifting.

No doubt he is trying to emulate the success of pop stars like Taylor Swift and Beyonce with his tour film but it does show how savvy he is as well.

Footage widely circulated on social media and elsewhere shows how even shoplifting has changed dramatically recently. Once it was simply devious folk quietly stealing items, hiding them in their coat and then sidling out of the shop.

He still looks good for a man who has been entertaining fans around the world for over six decades and has notched up more than 21.5million singles’ sales in the UK. He is the third topselling artist in UK singles’ chart history behind the Beatles and Elvis Presley.

Now, while this no doubt still goes on, a large number of shoplifters barge into all kinds of shops and stores in organised groups and brazenly steal items. Security staff may make valiant attempts to stop them but they often end up on the receiving end of mindless violence. In October, Policing Minister Chris Philp chaired a meeting of senior police leaders and 13 of the UK’s biggest retailers to launch the Retail Crime Action Plan. 6

Interestingly, he was originally marketed as a rebellious rock ‘n roll singer in the style of Elvis. He actually looked a bit like him then with his quiffed hair and developed a bit of a sneer like Elvis which made him look tougher. He soon fell into his own style, though and, as talent will out, he and his band the Shadows started making hit records. Cliff simply never stopped.

He’s always been the poster boy for clean living and still has a dedicated fan base across the country that ensures every concert is a sell-out and every song release a hit. Sir Cliff has seen them all come and go when it comes to pop entertainers. He survived through Punk, New Wave, New Romantics, Grunge and Rap and he’s still here. Long may his larynx last and his voice and star quality continue to delight. Drones may become first responders to aid police DRONES have long had a mixed press and seemed – like lasers originally were – to be a solution looking for a problem. True, people have bought them in their thousands on the high street and on the net and they do offer an affordable and fun way for remote flying. They are popular with businesses like photographers. Estate agents use them and they provide a safe way to gain pictorial information at height without someone putting themselves at risk. Survey companies use them and large parcel delivery companies have aspirations of employing them for deliveries. Unfortunately, not everyone who operates them since drones hit the market has been sensible and there have been near-misses when using them near airfields. The potential for a terrifying disaster still looms although there are now more guidelines and, hopefully, commonsense around drones.

So it was good to see that drones could now also be used as first responders for police emergencies and will be trialled during 2024. The innovative scheme, called Project Eagle X, will be tested in Norfolk which has limited access to National Police Air Service helicopters. If this is successful, drones could be stationed on buildings and operated remotely which allows police to send the devices to crime scenes swiftly and gather potentially vital information. Similar trials have apparently been carried out already in San Diego and police in England and Wales are working with US officers on this. Trials are also going to take place in Belgium and the Netherlands. Let’s hope the British trials are successful and that drones can find their place in helping the emergency services. Technology today is a wondrous thing – more so when it finds a positive place in the world and contributes so practically to our everyday lives.

or email: help@aamail.org 7

TRAVEL | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

A weekend in Frankfurt By Rebecca Underwood, BA Hons | Travel Journalist

Courtesy of Visit Frankfurt

I embarked on my explorations with the utmost zeal and headed for St Bartholomew’s cathedral with its imposing Gothic tower, which soars 95 metres into the sky and visitors who climb the 328 steps up to the viewing platform are richly rewarded with a fabulous panoramic view. The cathedral, known as the Kaiserdom, dates back to 1315 and although severely damaged by fire in 1867 and bombed in 1944 it has been restored with much care and attention to detail. The cathedral’s many treasures include Antonius van Dyck’s fabulous painting of the Lamentation of Christ, which dates back to 1627 and was bequeathed to the cathedral in 1852.

Frankfurt is located on the Main River in the German state of Hesse and known as Frankfurt am Main. Named after the Franks, who dwelled near the Lower Rhine in the 3rd century, the Free City of Frankfurt was a city state for nearly five hundred years and a prominent municipality of the Holy Roman Empire. In 1562, kings and emperors were crowned in the city’s Bartholomäus Cathedral. In 1806 the city’s sovereignty was lost due to the collapse of the empire. Nine years later Frankfurt regained its prominence and then in 1866 it was annexed by the Kingdom of Prussia and in 1945 it was declared part of the state of Hesse. Today, Frankfurt, also known as ‘Mainhattan’, is a global centre for commerce, technology, media and creative industries with shimmering glass, concrete and steel skyscrapers including the head office of the European Central Bank. The city’s cultural venues attract the crowds and with 30 museums to choose from there is clearly a wide range of exhibitions to keep the most discerning visitor’s attention.

With my insatiable thirst for art awakened I made my way to the Städel Museum, which was founded in 1815 and is crammed with more than 3,000 paintings focusing on Renaissance, Baroque and early Modern pieces. The collection includes inspiring works by Rembrandt, Picasso, Monet, Botticelli, Vermeer and Degas. Each piece demands the admiration of the viewer and I was utterly enchanted and enthralled.

Applewine © visitfrankfurt_Holger-Ullmann

Alas, pressed for time, I forced myself to leave and took a leisurely stroll along the banks of the River Main and headed for the Historisches Museum, which features art and artefacts from the medieval era to the present day. Exhibitions include Frankfurt Once and Frankfurt Now, which is spread out over five galleries and explores how the citizens of Staedel Museum the city lived in the past and how they live today. It is a fascinating example of how events impact every detail of the lives of the residents. As I emerged from the museum into the sunlight I made my way to the Röemerberg, the city’s old central square, which was reconstructed, according to the original plans, and completed in 1986. I was spellbound by the gorgeous gabled half-timbered properties and in the centre of the square, by the imposing town hall, stands a fabulous bronze fountain of the goddess Justitia holding the scales of justice and a sword. As I strolled around the square the enticing aromas of coffee and pastries swirled around my nostrils and awakened my appetite. I selected a table outside the buzzing Schwarzer Stern restaurant, directly opposite the magnificent Römer, the old town hall. I ordered the delicious braised beef dumplings with red cabbage and apples accompanied by a glass of house red and followed by an unforgettable slice of apple pie, which were served with aplomb.

Kaiserdom

To work off those calories I took a brisk walk along to the pedestrianonly zone of Zeil, the city’s main shopping area and the location of MyZeil, a shopping mall, which Historisches Museum features an enormous curved glass façade and covers 52,000 square metres with brand-name shops, international labels and regional retailers keen to assist me in reaching my credit card limit. Weighed down with bags, feeling rather weary, and in need of a spot of pampering, I headed for the JW Marriott, located on Thurn-und-Taxis – Platz 2, a short walk away. A swift check-in

was completed and I was escorted to my grand deluxe suite measuring 60 sqm. With floor to ceiling windows and a separate living room with a comfy couch I made myself at home with ease. I then went in search of the hotel’s spa to indulge in a 30-minute ‘De-stress’ massage, which included essential oils with the most delightful and soothing scents. Back in my suite I retreated to my king size bed, swathed with cool, white linens, and succumbed to a deep slumber. Up with the larks and I headed for Goethe House, located on Großer Hirschgraben. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, a German poet, novelist, playwright, theatre director, critic, scientist and statesman was born in 1749 and the exquisitely furnished Goethe House, built on the site of his childhood home, provides the opportunity to take a glimpse into his life and Frankfurt in the 18th century. Exhibits include a presentation of the Goethe family, a history of the property and details of Frankfurt. One room is dedicated to Goethe as a young man, his legal studies and his writings and drawings. His novel, The Sorrows of Young Werther resulted in enormous fame and is thought to be highly influential in the beginning of Romanticism and Faust, his tragic play, which is in two parts, is considered to be the greatest work of German literature. In 1821 Goethe was introduced to the 12 year old Felix Mendelssohn who later set a number of Goethe’s poems to music. As my visit to Frankfurt was drawing to a close I made my way to the Haus Wertheym, a German restaurant and inn, located on Fahrtor, opposite the Historisches Museum. The origins of the Haus Wertheym date back to 1479 and it was the ideal setting to enjoy a real taste of Frankfurt. I ordered the traditional meaty sauerbraten, served with potato dumplings and a chilled glass of cider and I held my glass aloft to make a toast to Frankfurt as I reflected on Johann Goethe’s wise words ‘Plunge boldly into the thick of life, and seize it where you will, it is always interesting’.

Self-drive & coach inclusive breaks

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When it comes to inviting, relaxing breaks, we have the ideal holiday for you.. Whether you’re looking for a romantic break for two, a family holiday or getting away with friends, Daish’s Holidays offers 12 hotels in 10 of the most popular UK destinations. Our fleet of 35 luxury coaches provide return travel in comfort and style from your pick up point and will take you directly to your hotel, aiming to arrive between 3 – 5pm. If you’d like to get out and about to explore the local area on your holiday, then all of our breaks can also be booked on a self-drive basis so you’ve got the freedom of having your own car.

Every break includes: Return coach travel (self-drive option available)

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Live nightly entertainment

Trip Advisor’s Travellers’ Choice We are proud to announce that six of our group – County, Devonshire, Abbey Lawn, Bournemouth Sands, Daish’s, Imperial – have been awarded the coveted TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice award for 2023.

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Don’t miss these coach inclusive breaks! Local pick up points from make it easy to get away. Price includes return coach travel from:

EM1: Mansfield, Nottingham, Beeston, Loughbrough, Leicester, Coventry. EM2: Mansfield, Nottingham, Beeston, Loughbrough, Leicester. EM3: Nottingham, Derby, Burton-upon-Trent, Tamworth, Sutton Coldfield, NEC. EM4: Nottingham, Derby, Burton upon Trent, Tamworth, Sutton Coldfield, NEC, Coventry. All offers are subject to availability and standard terms and conditions (see brochure or website for T&C’s). DATE

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10 fabulous locations, 12 great hotels. Bournemouth

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Call 01202 638 840 or visit daishs.com

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CELEBRITY FEATURE | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

PETER KAY BORN TO BE FUNNY PETER Kay was born to be funny. He is a natural comedian who uses observations on everyday life to tickle the nation’s funnybone. His humour transcends age, culture and geography and, as the thousands who queue to see his latest ongoing tour know, it’s the ideal antidote for everything from recession to piles. Born in Farnworth, Bolton and unashamedly Northern, Peter, now 50, knew he wanted to be in comedy from an early age. He studied media performance at the University of Salford and began working as a part-time comedian in North-west comedy clubs. His day jobs, however, ranged from a factory worker packing toilet rolls, in a supermarket, a video shop, a cash and carry and a bingo hall as well as a mobile disc jockey. He worked in a garage for six years in between all the other jobs. “Being a comedian is the only job I’ve ever managed to keep for a long period of time,” he once confessed. “In all my other jobs, after a while it got to the point where it was like I wasn’t there.

“Hey …. I bet my former bosses are sat right now saying ‘You’re damn right you wasn’t there, that’s why you’re not there now!’ but I guess I wasn’t meant to pack toilet rolls or stack shelves. I was destined to make people laugh.” However, he does admit that his “best job before being a stand-up comedian would have to be when I was usher at my local cinema in Bolton.

“I got to see all the movies for free, got free sweets and I told people endings of films as they were going in, like ‘I didn’t know Al Pacino was in ‘Ghost’.” Peter was also an usher at the huge Manchester O2 Arena – the venue he now packs out night after night to thousands of adoring fans. Such is karma. As a stand-up comedian, Peter won the North West Comedian of the Year award in 1997 and the following year Channel 4’s So You

Think You’re Funny contest. He was also nominated for a Perrier Award for his show at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

months of release. It’s still a popular buy and ranks as the biggest selling British hardback autobiography of all time.

As his profile started to rise, Peter wrote, directed and starred in That Peter Kay Thing for Channel 4 which resulted in spin-off sitcom Peter Kay’s Phoenix Nights.

His second book TV: Big Adventures on the Small Screen was published last September and greeted with the same sort of acclaim.

This was a turning point for the young comedian. Phoenix Nights, filmed in a Farnworth social club, ran for two series from 2001 to 2002 to become iconic comedy.

Peter is currently in the middle of a lengthy tour – his first for 12 years - which when it ends will also prove to be a record-breaker with a lengthy stint at London’s O2 Arena.

It also generated another successful spin-off with friend and fellow Boltonian Paddy McGuinness - Max and Paddy’s Road to Nowhere – in 2004.

Previously, Peter wrote and starred in comedy tour Mum Wants A Bungalow which turned into the Guinness World Records’ most successful ever tour selling more than 1.2 million tickets

In 2005, Peter recorded a promotional video in which he mimed to Tony Christie’s 1971 hit Is This The Way to Amarillo. This was re-issued as a fundraiser for Comic Relief, raising more than £2 million for charity. It also reached No.1 in the UK singles’ chart to become the year’s best-seller.

He is notoriously private about his life away from performing and still lives in Bolton. He is married to Susan and they have a teenage son, Charlie.

He followed this up two years later when he created a star-studded video to (I’m Gonna Be) 500 Miles. In 2007, he moved into theatre to play director Roger DeBris in the Mel Brooks’ musical The Producers at Manchester’s Palace Theatre. Then, always keen to try fresh projects and experience fresh challenges, in 2008 Peter co-wrote and starred in Britain’s Got the Pop Factor ….and Possibly a New Celebrity Jesus Christ Soapstar Superstar Strictly on Ice. In this parody of several British reality TV shows , Peter was the series’ fictional protagonist Geraldine McQueen. He even released a single from this The Winner’s Song which, ironically, reached No.2 in the UK singles’ charts.

He has spawned a variety of catchphrases during his comedy career including his disbelieving “Garlic bread?” and “Put big light on”. In a series of hilarious TV adverts for beer (he’s actually teetotal) he coined “’Ave it!” Peter is quite an unstarry person and often seen around Bolton but he is also extremely generous and has supported a variety of local charities including Bolton Hospice. In fact, local people are generally very protective of this famous son and proud of his ongoing achievements. It’s not everyday a working class lad becomes a superstar and still lives in his home town but then Peter Kay is definitely not your average superstar – and his fans are very grateful for that!

In 2015 he brought back Phoenix Nights for a series of live performances for Comid Relief and in 2016 he toured the UK with Peter Kay’s Dance For Life in aid of Cancer Research. From 2015 to 2018 he captured the attention of TV audiences once more with his series Car Share and in 2016 won the BAFTA TV Award for Best Male comedy Performance, the BAFTA TV Award for Best Scripted Comedy and the National Television Award for Best Comedy for Car Share. He also received an honorary doctorate from the University of Salford. He has made several guest TV appearances over the years – on Coronation Street, The Catherine Tate Show, Mrs Brown’s Boys and even Doctor Who to name just a few. In between all this, Peter wrote his autobiography The Sound of Laughter which sold more than one million copies in the first three

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WEYMOUTH

The perfect spot for your sunny getaway

The second is the George, more of a modern style with restaurant over 2 floors serving top quality drinks and meals prepared with the freshest local ingredients. It also has a good outdoor space to sit and watch the world go by. During the Summer months I took a five day coach holiday with Daish’s Holidays staying at The Russell Hotel, situated on the glorious seafront esplanade of Weymouth.

The sandy beach is sprinkled with deck chairs and has many food & drink stalls and a vast range of attractions including donkey rides, a large funfair and even a traditional punch and Judy.

During the Summer months there is a large firework display every Monday at 9pm which adds to the holiday experience.

The esplanade is wide and flat and very well kept, making it perfect for a long stroll in the sunshine, you can walk for miles along the coastal path lined with brightly coloured beach huts.

During our visit we took an optional excursion organised by the hotel out to Bournemouth and Poole. It was well organised, leaving the hotel after breakfast and returning in plenty of time to get ready for our evening meal. Bournemouth has the perfect beach front with sandy beach, Ferris wheel, many little cafés, restaurants and a large pier. For those with mobility problems there is a cliff lift to help you down. Highlight of our visit was the botanical gardens, a vast outdoor space with water, music and plenty of plants to admire.

The hotel occupies a beautiful building and has 87 bedrooms with many offering sea views. Facilities include a coffee shop, bar, restaurant and dance floor. The hotel hosts a programme of live entertainment every evening which includes dancing, bingo and quizzes. There is also the option to book excursions and day trips via the hotel. What’s included in a Daish’s Holiday package: • Luxury coach travel with comfort stops on route • Convenient pickup and drop-off along popular routes • Breakfast and three-course evening meal every day • On-site entertainment Seated on a beautiful bay Weymouth boasts one of the finest beaches in Dorset. The seafront is lined with Georgian buildings, restaurants and a vast range of eateries from fish and chips to ice cream parlours. 14

Weymouth is a family friendly beautiful resort which I would visit time and time again.

Poole was in a different class, gorgeous pubs, restaurants and a harbour full of luxury yachts, well worth the visit. By Helen Gergus. My favourite part of Weymouth is the traditional fishing harbour with lift bridge. Watch the boats come and go from luxury yachts to working fishing boats. Either side of the harbour is lined with pastelpainted houses and many restaurants and bars, too many to mention them all. Two of my favourites were the Kings Arms, a 16th Century Inn where King George III is said to have stayed with its low ceilings and doorways and decorated in a traditional fashion.

Daish’s Holidays is a family-owned and operated business that has 12 hotels, located in 10 popular tourist destinations across England and Wales including Newquay and Weymouth. The company also has its own fleet of luxury coaches to transport guests in comfort from a number of pick-up points across the UK, stretching from west Yorkshire to Cornwall. Customers have the choice between coach or self-drive options across England and Wales.

LIVE STRONGER FOR LONGER Keep Active well into your 60's We offer an array of low intensity exercise classes that range from strength and conditioning classes with body conditioning, low intensity Pilates as well as chair based exercise sessions as well. Concession members can join all High Peak Leisure Centre’s for £29 a month on a rolling agreement. Its never to late to get started contact your local leisure centre today.

Glossop Leisure Centre

New Mills Leisure Centre

36-40 High Street East, SK13 8PN

Hyde Bank Road, SK22 4BP

01457 842272

01663 748842

Glossop Swimming Pool

Buxton Swimming & Fitness Centre

Dinting Road, SK13 7DS

St Johns Road, SK17 6BE

01457 842262

01298 766142

The Bon Jovi Experience Sun 4 Feb An unforgettable celebration of Jon Bon Jovi’s timeless classics.

Keeper of The Books Sat 27 – Sun 28 Jan A world premiere by Rob Young. Keeper of the Books is based on true, local stories of Buxton.

WHAT’S ON

STAGE

Madama Butterfly Sun 25 Feb Presented by the Ukrainian National Opera.

An Evening with Johns’ Boys Sat 10 Feb As seen on the live shows of Britain’s Got Talent.

An Evening with Rick Stein Fri 15 Mar Revelations from the kitchen, musical delights, poetic interludes, and stories of global adventures are all on the menu.

buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

01298 72190

A Buxton Opera House Production

AN AMATEUR PRODUCTION BY ARRANGEMENT WITH THE REALLY USEFUL GROUP LTD.

LYRICS BY TIM RICE MUSIC BY ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER Directed by Paul Kerryson

THU 25 – SUN 28 APR

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Buying a holiday home

How many times have you visited a favourite holiday destination and thought how blissful it would be to own a holiday home there?

of high demand where other people will also love to stay. So it’s important to research staycations most people choose.

As we move into darker nights and the vagaries of the British Winter, making plans around our favourite sunshine destinations is a pleasant way to while away the evenings.

It’s definitely worth being realistic about how much you can afford to spend. If you have a cash windfall or pension money to invest, for example, a holiday home is a great place for your money to grow.

But if you thought that owning this kind of dream property was totally outside your budget, it might be worth looking at genuine calculations and reconsidering. It may just be that this dream could become a reality. Owning a holiday home is not just an indulgence but also, if you want to and if handled properly, a second income stream. So, it’s not just somewhere to get away for the weekend, a restful week in a “home from home” or somewhere for family and friends to stay, it’s also a way to insure your future. First decide on the location. This may be abroad or in the UK and if you’re just looking for a delightful getaway, it will probably be in an area you already love and know well. Buying a holiday home abroad requires specialist knowledge. So choose a well-established company that has experience of the country and area you have chosen, which understands local laws and can guide you through the whole process. The top 10 countries where Brits have chosen to have homes are: Australia, USA, Canada, Spain, Ireland, New Zealand, France, South Africa, Germany and Italy. If you’re thinking of the UK and looking for a return on your investment by letting, your home choice needs to be in an area 18

If you need a mortgage to buy your second home, mortgage rules change to a holiday home mortgage and consulting a trusted mortgages’ expert in this field is vital. Some holiday lets are also seasonal. Rural cottages and log cabins may be more popular in the Winter while seaside properties and those with outdoor lifestyle additions, like a pool, do better in the Summer months. Families do, though, often choose to spend special holidays like Christmas and New Year in holiday lets. To ensure bookings, place your property with an established agency that is already dealing in similar lets. Consider your policy on pets. Many people, particularly those with dogs who don’t want to leave them in boarding kennels, are looking for animal-friendly holiday lets. Like any other property, you’ll need property insurance. If you’re letting it out commercially, there are tax implications so sort these out with a tax expert initially. Toni Norman, senior marketing manager for Tingdene Parks which has hundreds of holiday and residential homes across England, says the renting and buying market is “pretty steady” currently.

“There is slightly more movement in the more affordable homes, as you would expect at the moment, but we are doing well throughout,” she stated. The company, in business for over 50 years, has noticed a change in the market since lockdown. “People are opting for more frequent and shorter holidays, often with family members which after lockdown has become even more important, and a holiday home is a great way of achieving this,” she added. Toni advised anyone buying a caravan on a park to check on both the site’s licensing, which could mean use for only 11 months of the year, and the site fees involved. “We do have some all year round residential sites and we are always very transparent on site usage and costs,” she said. “It’s always important to ask these questions before buying.” Like any other property, you’ll need property insurance. If you’re letting it out commercially, there are tax implications so sort these out with a tax expert initially. Bringing a knowledgable solicitor on board early is also a sensible move, whether you’re letting or not. If you’re planning on buying a holiday home it’s important to sometimes have a re-think and not get swept away by the moment. Take time to consider the practicalities and long-term consequences to see if it’s right for you. Your conveyancer will sort pre-contract checks and searches, review your contract, verify the title deeds, and check legal ownership as well as advising on a property survey for any possible structural issues or maintenance concerns. Depending on the property’s value and location, you may also be required to pay Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT).Your solicitor will assist with the calculation and payment of this tax. As a holiday let landlord, you are responsible for your guests’ health and welfare.Your property needs to be safe, with any hazards pointed out in signs, and basic elements like risk of fire addressed properly. A good agency will help you with these practicalities. Information on the local area – places to go, special events, public transport and other useful information for visitors – is also something you should supply.

Expiry date 31/3/24 Quote “50+” when booking

If your holiday home is just for the use of you and your family and friends, you will probably treat it like a second home and furnish it accordingly. However, if it is a holiday let, leaving much-loved items around as you would at home is a mistake because accidents do happen. Furnish this new property adequately, attractively and suitably for the building, the area and the likely occupants and their activities. Just don’t put in anything you’d be heartbroken to lose. hink about how you will maintain the building generally and about the practicalities of changeovers between to-let clients. You’ll need to arrange cleaning and renewing welcome packs and necessary basics like soap and toilet rolls. But there is no doubt that having somewhere to escape to on a regular basis, in a place where you feel totally relaxed, IS one of life’s joys. 19

EMBRACE

Bringing families together

the freedom of owning a caravan MAIN DEALERS FOR

With so many beautiful landscapes and exciting attractions on your doorstep now’s the time to hitch up and hit the road. Whether it’s by rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, rolling hills or sparkling rivers, new adventures are ahead of you and memories are waiting to be made. Let us help you prepare for your next adventure – with hundreds of new and quality used caravans and motorhomes to choose from and the support of a friendly experienced team we can guide you to the perfect vehicle for your dreams. The experts at our long established family business are on hand to help everyone from first-timers to experienced caravanners and we welcome thousands of new and returning customers every year as they keep their caravan in tip top condition and stock up on awnings and accessories.

www.glossopcaravans.co.uk info@glossopcaravans.co.uk Telephone: 01457 868011 20

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24 WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR HOME Contact organisations like the National Association of Building Contractors (NABC) for large projects on https://nabc.org.uk or Trusted Traders which is run by consumer experts Which? at trustedtraders.which.co.uk No.2 – Is your fence in good condition? Nothing says shabby and uncared for in a garden like a tatty fence - which is bad news for your home’s value. Winter is a great time to replace your fence because plants aren’t growing and all that pruning back of bushes and hedges means a more straightforward job for fence erectors, explained Steve Beaumont of Colourfence. He works around the North-west supplying and fixing Colourfence’s main product - a metal garden fence made from zinc, aluminium and magnesium which is powder-coated.

Spending money on our homes is not just an investment in the building around us but in enhancing our lifestyle.

It comes with a 25-year guarantee and there is no maintenance needed. Colours are brown, green, blue/grey cream. These all blend in with garden colours and/or windows and doors for a smart overall look that also offers privacy and security. The company also supplies and fits aluminium railing gates with various top designs.

The key, though, is to first do your homework on big projects especially if it involves structural changes, create a budget and keep to it.

“During the pandemic people got used to more of an outdoor life and valuing their space and Colourfence has become really popular with many people because of it,” added Steve.

Factor in all the likely costs you’ll need – any fees for building regulations, professional help like architects, labour, materials and skips for rubbish.

No.3 – Planning a new look for your garden – or even streamlining the old one – is a good investment. For plenty of garden ideas, go to the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) website at httpl://www.rhs.org.uk

If it is a big project, make a schedule of the work involved which will also help you plan the money needed. Compare quotes from different local suppliers and services to get the best deal.

No.4 – Consider installing a hot-tub to give you all-year-round enjoyment of life outside. Find out all about available makes and installers at BISHTA, the British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association’s website at bishta.co.uk

To keep costs down, where possible minimize structural changes and avoid moving existing plumbing unless you really have to.

No.5 – If your windows need replacing, you’ve got choices to make and need expert help. On offer are uPVC casement and sash windows, wood casement windows and aluminium casement windows. Seeing local tradesmen’s work beforehand is helpful and a new front-door to match completes the smart exterior look.

A NEW Year often forces us to look around and plan a fresh start quite often for our home.

Don’t forget that small businesses and sole traders may cost you less as they don’t have the same overheads as big high street companies. To help make your life easier, we’ve narrowed it all down to just 24 suggestions for 2024.

No.6 – De-clutter your hallway and install hooks for coats and a cupboard for shoes.Your hallway needs to be a bright, welcoming place so install better lighting and a large mirror.

No.1 – What does your home look like from the outside? Does it need painting or the soffits replacing? Again, get quotes, preferably from people who have been recommended.

No.7 – If your house is short on space or has dark areas, take a good look at your lighting and upgrade it to LED lights. Mirrors are also useful throughout the house to maximise available light. 21

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No.8 – If you’re a pensioner and your boiler is on the blink, you may be eligible for a new one free with a Government grant. Find out more at heatingforce.co.uk No.9 – New flooring can completely change the look of any room. In 2024, laminate flooring will continue its stylish ways while engineered wood flooring keeps its authentic luxury looks. White, grey, black and oak will be the year’s dominant colours with more eco-friendly options available. No.10 – Fresh furnishings throughout the home offer a new style to any room. Cushions and throws brighten up older sofas and an investment in plants brings the outside inside even in the coldest weather. No.16 – Re-decorating rooms is always a good way to brighten up everyday living. Experts say that 2024 will feature radiant red, elemental blue, nutshell brown, cyber lime and fondant pink as its colours and that style will be fun – still with the emphasis on saving money.

No.11 – If you enjoy watching TV in an evening, treat yourself to the latest model. They’ve never been more hi-tech or the choice of channels broader. No.12 – If you can’t afford new kitchen units currently, how about new unit doors? Or, have the existing doors spray-painted or dipped. There are plenty of companies doing this across the UK. No.13 – Invest in the latest fridge or fridge-freezer to give your kitchen an ultra-modern shot in the arm. The latest American fridges in particular offer spacious storage – cool in more ways than one! No.14 – If you need to buy a new sofa or easy chairs but cash is tight, it’s definitely worth a look around charity shops like the British Heart Foundation and homeless charity Emmaus which both sell good-quality furniture. Prices are much more realistic and you’re helping others at the same time. No.15 – Nothing creates a handsome centre-piece to a room better than an impressive fireplace. There are currently dozens of styles available, from traditional wooden to plaster and gas fires to woodburners.

No.17 – More home working has meant the rise of the homeoffice and this should continue in 2024. So if you want to turn some unwanted area into your office, plan space carefully to fit in equipment and storage. No.18 – Post-pandemic, we all value our home-life far more and are determined to make leisure and relaxing areas as comfortable as possible. Certainly, bedroom furniture expert Sam Cooper from Sam Cooper’s Rightstyle, based in Whitefield, Greater Manchester, has found clients willing to invest in bespoke styling that enhances a better lifestyle. The company was established more than 30 years ago , providing high quality, bespoke fitted furniture teamed with exceptional customer service. Whilst the company’s roots initially lay in fitted bedroom furniture, they are now seeing an increased demand for home offices and media walls, fitting at least one bespoke media wall a week.

Explained Sam: “People are investing in their homes more now because they know it not only makes it a better place to live but will also be easier to sell in the future. Every client has individual requirements and styles and everything is bespoke.”

No.20 – New bedding can turn even the simplest bedroom into a luxury setting and we spend so much of our lives there that enjoying a good mattress, beautiful duvet and matching sheets and pillowcases makes sense.

He predicts that bedroom furniture colour favourites for 2024 will include cashmere grey, blues and greens and concrete shades. Configurations are flexible but with an emphasis on storage.

No.21 – According to experts, bathrooms come into their own in 2024 as not just practical places but aesthetically pleasing. As a result, trends are moving towards neutral and warmer colours like warm white, cream and even wood tones for a relaxing place that’s balm to the soul.

Sam added that tongue and groove wood is coming back in “and traditional oaks are back and here to stay.” No.19 – New curtains or blinds can transform a room and, as Elizabeth Kay-Jones from Haslingden-based Millennium Blinds pointed out, many people now opt for both. “They often keep the curtains open and use the blinds for security to stop people seeing in. It’s also a contemporary choice,” she stated. While there are hundreds of colours, styles and varieties of blinds available, she finds that shutters and Venetian blinds in toning colours to complement décor remain popular. “People now like to use them with a remote control connected to Alexa or an iphone,” she added. “Because of the number of newbuild properties now, people want a contemporary look to their blinds and this should continue in 2024. “All blinds keep the heat in during Winter and are cool in the Summer and people like the way they enhance comfortable living.”

Steam showers, towel heaters and tubs remain popular and – good news – the medicine cabinet is making a comeback with its handy shelves and vanity mirrors, all streamlined for a new and stylish year. No.22 – A colourful modern shower curtain and towels which pick up the colour accents can liven up any bathroom and plants come into their own in a bathroom. Custom-made items also make their way here now with hand-crafted tiles likely to be popular in 2024. No.23 – Have you got enough general storage space in your home? Rather than rely on bulky furniture, consider getting in an expert to create storage space or shelves in those oddly-shaped extra spaces dotted around your home. Bespoke units streamline the whole room and serve a genuine purpose in finding places for clothes, bedding and everything else you need to store. No.24 – The pictures and photos you put on your walls personalize it for you so buying original artwork, limited copies or just pictures you really love can enhance any room. And group framed photos together on a shelf or surface to tell the story of your family and your life.

We’re recruiting…Come and join the team Do you currently work in care and fancy a change, or would you like to find out more about working in health and social care?

Nurturing relationships

Belonging to a vibrant community

If so, come and chat to us about the exciting roles we have available over a free coffee and a cake in The Bistro and find out what makes FREE cake Belong Macclesfield a great & coffee Tell a friend or place to work. bring them along with you! We can even set up your interview whilst you’re here!

Making a difference Belong Macclesfield

Kennedy Avenue, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 3DE | T: 01625 508700

Find out more and apply online: www.belong.org.uk/jobs

MOTORING | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

STEVE HOWARTH’S TEST DRIVE a camera mounted behind the rear-view mirror to monitor the road ahead for imperfections sending data to the dampers which iron out bumps and improve ride quality.

DS7 LA PREMIÈRE E-TENSE 4X4 360 WITH parent company Citroen producing some well-appointed and high spec motors these days their luxury DS brand cars have to go that extra mile to stand out from lesser siblings. So I was looking forward to spending a week with the 2023 rangetopping DS 7 in La Premiere E-TENSE trim. The whole DS 7 range has had a mid-life upgrade including a massive new radiator grille and unusual ‘waterfall’ daytime running lights. Its PHEV systems have also been boosted with a larger 14.2kWh battery pack improving maximum electric range from 34 to 43 miles. And as part of the overhaul DS also introduced our test car, a performance-focused E-Tense 4x4 360 model with 355bhp. As a result this large SUV has a 0-62mph time of 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 146 yet, say DS, can return up to 161mpg. There are two other plug-in hybrid systems to choose from with the cheapest front-wheel drive PHEV having 222bhp and the mid-range option with twin electric motors 296 plus four-wheel drive. There are also diesel versions with 129bhp from a 1.5-litre fourcylinder Citroen/Peugeot sourced unit found in many of their lesser vehicles including vans with prices starting from a little under £37k. With plenty of premium fittings equipment includes sumptuous leather seats heated and cooled all round with massage features up front plus a pair of screens, including a wide 12-inch central swipe able touchscreen unit for infotainment. As well as quality switchgear there are a few nice individual touches like a diamond-shaped start button in the middle of the dashboard and a classy analogue clock which rises from the dash top on start up. With lots of space for passengers and luggage it is all very civilised – especially due to the DS having Active Scan Suspension, which uses 24

The E-Tense 4x4 360 is undoubtedly quick and can see off more sporty cars easily, especially if you use the gear shift paddles behind the wheel – but driving in sport mode gets through the battery power much faster than in comfort setting. Because the E-Tense 4x4 360 is so much faster than other variants it has lowered suspension, bigger brakes and larger 21-inch alloy wheels with low profile tyres. The brakes are also impressive and handling good for a large SUV. Taking the DS 7 on a 200 mile round trip to a car launch event in North Yorkshire proved it to be a comfortable cruiser which really does have impressive performance and economy – providing you keep the battery charged so its twin electric motors can help out the 1.6 turbocharged petrol engine. Every version of the DS 7 is roomy and well-equipped including features like sat nav, smart cruise control, power tailgate, wireless phone charging, 360 degree camera system, auto lights and wipers and a raft of the very latest safety systems. So it is a lot of car – but for quite a lot of money. Our range topping La Premiere E-TENSE 4x4 360 is a shade under £64,000, but when compared with other premium SUV offerings that’s not bad for this level of performance and luxury. DS is now well established on UK roads and with this upgraded 7 they are aiming at another segment to win over – I expect we will be seeing them in some numbers in the near future.

More information at www.dsautomobiles.co.uk

KGM Tivoli SsangYong has been a value for money car maker here in the UK since launching their Musso SUV way back in 1994… but not anymore. For the South Korean manufacturer has changed its name after a global takeover by the KG Mobility Corporation and from now on will be known as KGM.

Yule love Derby

Their first car to appear under this new flag is the revised Tivoli which has had major improvements and upgrades for 2024.

We got our hands on the range-topping 1.5-litre petrol Ultimate Nav Auto which Coronation proved surprisingly refined with a smoothStreet ’s six speed auto box and peppy 155bhp turbo motor delivering up to 40 plus mpg. Derby’s own While it looks like an SUV the award-winning Tivoli, which Dame takes its name from the Italian town near Rome and was first launched in 2015, is two wheel drive and around the same size as a family hatchback.

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this festive season

TODD BOYCE MORGAN BRIND

With a renewed exterior design and brand-new interior, KGM say Tivoli offers European styling, class-leading safety and competitive fuel efficiency. The entry-level Ventura model has 8in colour touchscreen, air con, cruise control, heated front seats, DAB radio, reversing camera, heated leather steering wheel, rear parking sensors, 16” alloy wheels and a host of the latest safety systems. Move up to Ultimate and you get larger 18” alloys, leather seats, a large digital dash, dual zone air con, power fold mirrors, triple LED front fog lights, front parking sensors, a rear spoiler and privacy glass. Nav spec increases the size of the central colour touchscreen to 9in and adds TomTom sat-nav. Fri 8 – Sun 31 Dec, Derby Arena

Getting in and out of the Tivoli is easy as it has wide-opening doors and,Sun once find that space is good too. The front 3 –inside, Sun 31you’ll Dec, Derby Market Place seats have generous leg room and lots of head room while storage provision is also decent and boot space quite generous. The centre console comes with a tray for a smartphone and two cup holders. Spending a week with the new Tivoli proved a pleasure and showed just how much their cars have moved on since those early 1990s models. It proved to be capable, well equipped and very easy to drive. On the interior it all seems well put together with a robust feel to the materials used.

Thu 14 – Sat 30 Dec, Derby Museum & Art Gallery on the Wardwick

SsangYong’s USP has always been price and value for money and KMG are keeping that value led approach with the range starting from a shade over £20k in 1.5 petrol Ventura spec going up to £24,340 for our top of the range Ultimate Nav version.

Sat 2 Dec

Sat 2 & Sun 3 Dec

Thu 21 & Fri 22 Dec

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

festivederby.co.uk

COMING SOON TO DERBY ARENA

Mon 12 Feb

Fri 1 Mar

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Sun 24 Mar

derbylive.co.uk | 01332 255800

FOOD | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE Well-travelled chef James Martin gets underneath the skin of Spain - a country he hardly knows but is excited to explore - as he discovers its history and culture. Here we share 4 recipes from his new book.

CASTILE BEANS AND MEATBALLS Castile and León is a region rich in pulses, and the largest producer in Spain. This recipe uses white beans from La Bañeza, which have a soft and buttery texture and hold their shape well when cooked, making them the perfect choice for a tomatoey stew to accompany beefy meatballs.

Serves 6-8 Ingredients • 100g dried alubias de La Bañeza (white beans) • 1kg beef mince • small bunch of flat-leaf parsley, chopped • 3 garlic cloves, chopped • 100ml olive oil • 100g lardo, sliced • 5 tomatoes, diced • 1 onion, sliced • 500ml passata • 1 teaspoon dried oregano • 300ml red wine • 200g roasted red peppers in a jar, sliced • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method Soak the beans in cold water overnight, then drain. Pop in a pan, cover with cold water, bring to the boil, then simmer for 1 hour. Drain and set aside. Mix together the beef, half the parsley, 1 teaspoon of salt and one-third of the garlic. When evenly combined, shape into 12 large meatballs. 26

Heat a large pan over a medium–high heat until hot, then add half the oil and pop in the meatballs. Once the meatballs have coloured, turn them over, then add the lardo, rest of the garlic, the tomatoes, onion, passata, oregano and wine. Season, bring to the boil, then pop in the peppers and simmer for 15 minutes. Add the beans and cook for a further 10 minutes, sprinkle over the remaining parsley, then drizzle over the remaining oil and serve.

BAKED ARTICHOKES AND EGGS This dish is my personal celebration of locally grown Spanish vegetables. Perfect for brunch or lunch served with crusty bread for dipping. Delicious.

Serves 4 Ingredients • 5 purple artichokes • 100ml olive oil • 1 bay leaf • 4 eggs • crusty bread, to serve For the sauce • 3 large tomatoes • 50ml olive oil • 1 onion, diced • 3 garlic cloves, diced • 1 charred red pepper, cored, deseeded and sliced • 1 teaspoon pimentón ahumado (smoked paprika) • 1⁄2 teaspoon sea salt

Method Heat a BBQ until hot and the coals are white. Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F/gas 6 or heat a pizza oven to 300°C (570°F). Start by prepping the artichokes. Peel away the bottom leaves and then, using a potato peeler, trim the stems back. Remove the top third of each artichoke with a knife and then cut into sixths. Pop the artichokes into a pan with 100ml water, the oil and bay leaf and cook for 15 minutes until all the liquid has gone. Grate the tomatoes over a sieve with a box grater. Chop the skins finely and mix up with the pulp and juice. Heat the olive oil in a pan over a medium heat, then add the onion and garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes to soften. Add the tomatoes, pepper and pimentón and bring to the boil. Reduce by half and season with the salt. Put the artichokes into an ovenproof dish, spoon over the sauce and crack the eggs on top. Place into the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or the pizza oven for 6–8 minutes. Serve with crusty bread.

FOOD | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

ROASTED SEA BASS WITH TOMATOES AND OLIVES An impressive dish of whole sea bass, roasted on a bed of tomatoes and olives and drizzled in oil and sherry for extra Spanish flavour. I’ve complemented it with some grilled asparagus coated in a tomato and parsley dressing served alongside.

Serves 2 Ingredients • 1 x 700g whole sea bass, gutted and fins removed • 1 lemon, sliced • a few flat-leaf parsley stalks • bunch of asparagus • 25ml olive oil • pinch of salt For the sauce • 150g tomato pulp • 2 large tomatoes, cut into chunks • 50ml olive oil • 1 tablespoon sherry • 100g olives of your choice, stoned For the dressing • 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar • 3 tablespoons tomato pulp • 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley • 1 tablespoon sherry • 1 garlic clove, crushed • 50ml olive oil

Method If you want to use a BBQ, heat a BBQ until hot and the coals are white. Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F/gas 6 or heat a pizza oven to 400°C (750°F). Start with the fish. Cut 3 or 4 deep slashes on each side, fill the cavity with the lemon slices and parsley stalks. Spoon the tomato pulp for the sauce into the base of a paella pan, sprinkle over the chopped tomatoes and sit the fish on top. Drizzle over the oil and sherry, then roast in the oven for 12–15 minutes, or in the pizza

oven for 10 minutes, adding the olives for the last minute of cooking. Whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing. Pop the asparagus onto a tray, roll in the oil and season with the salt. Place onto the BBQ grill and char for 2–3 minutes, turning during cooking. Alternatively, you can cook in a griddle or frying pan on the hob. Pop the asparagus onto a plate, spoon over the dressing and serve alongside the fish.

SPICED SEVILLE ORANGES WITH CRÈME CARAMEL

A pudding which makes the most of Seville’s famous citrus export. The crème caramels are flavoured with orange as well as the vanilla and served alongside sticky caramelised slices of orange.

Serves 8 Ingredients For the caramel

• 150g caster sugar • squeeze of orange juice

For the filling

• 500ml full-fat milk • zest of 1 Seville orange • 1 vanilla pod, seeds removed • 3 large eggs, plus 2 egg yolks • 100g caster sugar

For the orange

• 1 Seville orange, peeled • 2 star anise • 1 cinnamon stick • 3 cloves • 2 bay leaves • 100g caster sugar • 100ml water

Method Heat a non-stick frying pan over a medium heat and, when hot, add the sugar, 2 tablespoons of water and the orange juice. Do not stir but carefully swirl in the pan until the sugar is brown and caramelised. This should take about 3–4 minutes. Once the sugar has caramelised, spoon into four ramekins and set aside. Preheat the oven to 130°C (110°C fan)/265°F/gas 3/4. Heat the milk, orange zest and the vanilla in a medium saucepan over a medium heat. In a bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until combined. Pour over the warm milk mixture and whisk again. Then ladle the mixture onto the caramel. Place the ramekins into a bain-marie and bake for 45 minutes. Transfer to the fridge to chill overnight. For the orange, pop all the ingredients into the caramel pan and bring to the boil. Remove from the heat and leave to cool and infuse. To turn the caramels out, loosen the edges with a sharp knife onto plates, then spoon the oranges on the side.

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NORtHErN CHAMBER ORCHESTRA Music and Nature Violin and director Zoë Beyers Saturday 17 February 7.30pm The King's School, Macclesfield Mainly Baroque Violin and director Callum Smart Viola Jaren Ziegler Saturday 9 March 7.30pm St Michael’s Church, Macclesfield Death and the Maiden Violin and director Katie Stillman Saturday 6 April 7.30pm The King’s School, Macclesfield