Gloucestershire issue 27

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W W W. 5 0 P L U S M A G A Z I N E . C O . U K MARCH - MAY 2016

GLOUCESTERSHIRE EDITION 27

WIN A HOLIDAY FOR TWO WITH ROBINSONS HOLIDAYS

IS SOLAR STILL WORTH THE INVESTMENT? RECENT CHANGES STILL MAKE IT A WINNER

James Martin

THE RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

EXOTIC RIVERS OF THE WORLD

Be6er Designs -­‐ Higher Yields -­‐ Greater Returns

RECENT CHANGES STILL MAKES SOLAR A WINNER If you plan to stay where you are for a few years solar s1ll represents one of the best home investments you can make with current returns averaging 9-­‐10% per annum; giving you growth on your investment while reducing your electricity bills. Recent tariff changes have not been as dras1c as feared so act now to take advantage of the longer days and the 2016 sunshine.

Each package below is a complete price including VAT, your EPC and all installa1on costs; except on rare occasions where specialised scaffolding is required. If you don’t see the bundle you are aOer we will tailor it for you; and of course we can scale up or down the number of panels according to the space available.

We also offer a choice of smart switches for diver1ng free solar energy to a hot water tank. Or talk to us about both DC & AC BaUery back up systems. Please call us on 01386 802020, email us at enquiries@2020solarpv.com or search for CLICK YOUR ROOF in Google. We are an established company just off the M5 near Tewkesbury.

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CONTENTS

T w itte r in g O n with Graham Smith

INSIDE...

14-15

8-9

EXOTIC RIVERS OF THE WORLD A look at River Cruising

14-15 JAMES MARTIN

Plates, Mates and Automobiles The Tour!

16-17 DOWNSIZING & DECLUTTERING

Is it time to move to something smaller 18-19 CHANGING THE MOOD OF YOUR HOME

a way of altering and improving your lifestyle 20-22 sweet treats

Desserts to delight 24

PENSION NEWS Changes to the pension system

25-27 Out and about

Places to visit 29

LEARnING ABOUT DEMENTIA and ways to help.

To read more titles of the magazine, enter our competitions or to subscribe to our regular newsletter visit our new look website:

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

6th Floor | 120 Bark Street | Bolton | BL1 2AX T: (01204) 860 194 | F: (01204) 860 213

Cavalier approach to the weather!

I forget who sang about “it might as well rain until September”, well in my part of the world it has been doing and right through to Spring.

Graham Smith

Prolonged wet weather gets us all in different ways. It’s a treat for my sciatica for instance. I’ve just spent three months walking like a ruptured duck thanks to pins, needles and pains and the urge to emigrate to warmer climes has crossed my mind more than once as I’ve performed an inelegant pose to put socks on in the morning.

Being part time guardian to six spaniels has its moments too as the rain has turned their garden into something resembling a boating lake and a toilet trip followed by 24 muddy paws trooping back in the house can be traumatic. Sometimes it’s nearly a fire engine job. Some perform their ablutions on dry land but others feel the urge to go on an Amazonian safari without a boat to the farthest flung corner of the quagmire and return looking like a mud wrestling competitor and they’re not fussy where they wipe their feet. Towels are to be avoided if they prefer wiping their feet and mud-soaked torsos on the best carpet and a shake of the head can lead to half an hour’s wiping down of tiles and paintwork.

There’s brainless Ben, the largest of the group, who thinks he’s God’s gift to the female sex even though he’s long since been separated from the equipment to do anything about it. He considers himself the only five-legged specimen of the breed and will aquaplane across the garden to offer his lustful ministrations to the nearest female, also devoid of the equipment and usually the inclination, so, thwarted, he’ll lunge back inside to attempt procreation with a stuffed rabbit or teddy bear. Not a pretty sight.

Whether the vet had a bad day when performing Ben’s neutering I don’t know but the sad animal has a fascination for vigorously licking my good lady’s leg, whatever she may be

e: admin@mcgrathmedia.co.uk

4

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TWITTER doing, which has alarming similarities to Sarah Ferguson’s fascination with having her toes sucked as a prelude to other delights. I worry about him. The look on his face if you remonstrate with him is reminiscent of an errant drunk on a Saturday night but he seems happy in his own world.

Milly is the senior member of the pack and rather like a dotty dowager. She is blind and deaf but that doesn’t prevent her finding the filthiest corner of the garden, ploughing through it until she resembles an outsize mud pie and gazing sightlessly at you afterwards as much as to say, “It’s your fault, clean me up and where’s my food?”

It’s a dog’s life? It certainly is for those who have to care for them during this monsoon season. Roll on summer!

When I’m 65 I officially become an OAP this year and although thoughts of retirement are far away it’s becoming noticeable that my bodily functions are no longer matching my mentality.

You know the feeling, you lose control.

You can cough, break wind and pass water all at the same time but not always voluntarily and invariably in the wrong place. Hair which long since stopped growing on your head sprouts from ever other bodily orifice and often in places where scissors or a razor could be positively injurious.

Your mind wanders back to your youth but your legs wander in odd directions and young people are opening doors for you even if you don’t want to go through them.

I’m still having sex at 64 although I live at 58, it’s no distance! But as we strive to do all we once did through advancing years isn’t it amazing what aids we needs to do it! Now cleanse your minds I didn’t mean that although I note that those who do need a pill of the aphrodisiac variety still have to pay for them on private prescription.

Develop a bad back though and you’ll get a cocktail of drugs over the telephone from your doctor for free even though he may never have met and diagnosed you.

You put more by the side of the bed than in it. Hair gel and aftershave are replaced by hair restorer and various embrocations to aid mobility and by the time you’ve reached the bathroom you’ve forgotten why you set off, and if it’s really bad you’ve maybe done it in the hall anyway.

Age is only a number they say. Indeed it is but a number of things are starting to happen which I could well do without.

A recurrent bad back, the front’s not so good either, blood pressure pills in a world where standards would give anyone blood pressure, the list is endless and growing daily.

Pass me the pension book but I refuse to go gently into that goodnight and intend to grow old disgracefully.

Food on the move Is it really necessary to drink coffee and eat on the move?

The modern trend is to ponse along with a cardboard cup of whatever in the mornings, in the street, the car or at a desk, and as the day goes on it

seems the modern generation cannot be without some sort of drink in their hands whatever they are doing.

In my day we ate at tables, used knives and forks and drank sitting down, what’s wrong with that?

Have a nice day Have you notices the number of glib and insincere phrases which have crept into the patter from sales people?

“Have a nice day”, “Will that be a small, medium or large?”, “Is there anything else I can help with today?”

All patronising insincerities which are obviously taught as standard at training courses and are surely designed to get right up our nostrils.

Gone are the days when natural conversation peppered our daily lives in shops and restaurants. Now it is replaced by plasticised Americanisms which grate with me like fingernails down a wall.

But as I said earlier I officially become a dinosaur this year and look what became of them!

God Save the Queen I see the trendies would like a new song at sporting events to replace the national anthem.

Oh for God’s sake what’s wrong with them? In a European world where we have to have straight bananas, standard measure condoms and all manner of bureaucratic tripe can we not stick with the one thing which is unique to this country? Stand up for it, sing it, be proud we have it, use it or lose it.

Hasn’t this country lost enough?

WIN A SELF DRIVE HOLIDAY FOR TWO... ...with Robinsons Holidays to either the Abbey Lawn Hotel in Torquay, the Imperial Hotel in Eastbourne or the Ocean View Hotel on the Isle of Wight.

Prize is for any Monday to Friday 4 nights’ stay and includes dinner, bed and breakfast in a standard twin or double room.

Closing date for competition is 30th April 2016.

Full terms & conditions on the website.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

GO TO WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK TO ENTER! 5

Great south south Great coast holidays coast holidays Coach SELF-DRIVE & & COACH COACH INCLUSIVE INCLUSIVE BREAKS BREAKS SELF-DRIVE

89 nclusive ££154 holidays GREAT GREAT VALUE VALUE55DAY DAY BREAKS HALF BOARD HALF BOARD BREAKS

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When itit comes comes to to inviting, inviting, relaxing relaxing When breaks in the south, we have the breaks in the south, we have the ideal holiday for you. ideal holiday for you.

Whether you’re after family-friendly holidays, a romantic getaway Whether you’re after holidays,our a romantic getaway or a group break withfamily-friendly like-minded people, seven hotels cover or a group break with like-minded people, our seven hotels cover the south’s finest locations. From the popular beaches of Cornwall the south’s finest locations.

From the popular beaches of Cornwall to the cosy Isle of Wight, there’s something for everyone. to the cosy Isle of Wight, there’s something for everyone.

Our coach inclusive option allows guests across the UK to travel in Our coach inclusive option allows guests the UK of to having travel in comfort, while our self-drive holidays offer across the freedom comfort, while our self-drive holidays offer the freedom of having your own car. your own car.

have our own fleet of executive ches that enables us to offer el from a selection of pick up Every break includes: Every break nts across theincludes: UK. • Return coach travel (self-drive option available)

• Return coach travel (self-drive option available) • Comfy en suite accommodation vehicle features conditioning and on board • Comfy en suiteair accommodation • Breakfast & 3-course evening meal o make your &journey as comfortable as possible.

• Breakfast 3-course evening meal • Live nightly entertainment also boast friendly drivers who will warmly greet • Live nightly entertainment

elp you settle into your pre-allotted seat and let now of any planned comfort breaks. We aim to Trio awarded Certificate of Excellence ou to your hotel between on We are proud to3-5pm, announce thatdepending three of our group – the Barrowfield, Devonshire and Daish’s hotels – have been awarded the coveted TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence. ngth of the journey.

Six fabulous locations, seven great hotels

Seven locations,weymouth eight greatweymouth hotels. newquayfabuloustorquay Every break includes: Isle of Wight

Torquay

Bournemouth

Eastbourne

• Return coach travel (self-drive option • Comfy en suite accommodation

Request your new 2016 brochure now!

Barrowfield Hotel Daish’s Hotel

Devonshire Hotel Devonshire Hotel

Hotel Prince Regent

Russell Hotel

Bournemouth Sands Claremont Hotel • Breakfast & 3-courseTheevening meal

Don’t miss

Request your new 2015 these coach brochure now!

inclusive breaks!

Local pick up points from make it easy to get away.

Best of British - All holiday prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin or double room on half board basis and includes nightly live entertainment.

Price includes return coach travel from: Worcester, Tewkesbury, Cheltenham, Gloucester, Stroud, Bristol.

Local up points from,and Bristol, Cheltenham, Gloucester, Stroud, All offerspick are subject to availability standard terms and conditions (see brochure or website for T&C’s).

Tewkesbury and Worcester make it easy to get away.

Don’t miss these coach inclusive breaks!

DATE DATE

HOTEL

DESTINATION HOTEL

January

March

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

12

17 23 23

5

02 04 05 11 17 22 25 27

01

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

Hotel – Eastbourne 5 14 Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne Claremont 5 Half £104 09 Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

Half£179 £164

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

Half

£109

11

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

5

Half

£129

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

5

Half

£89

12

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

5

Half

£139

19 Russell Hotel – Weymouth

Hotel 4Somerset Half £89

5

Half£194 £129

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

5

6

Half

£174

5

Half

£169

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

Half

£104

5

– Llandudno 5 14 Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay 24

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

30

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

5

24 Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

– Bournemouth 5Sands Half Hotel £124 April

5

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

5

Half

£99

02

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

5

Half

£119

06

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

5

Half

£109

APRIL09

5

Half

£109

5

Half

£139

21

31

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

03

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

£164

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

5

Half

£154

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

5

Half

£144

22

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

Half

£179

23

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

6

Half

£184

4

Half£164 £114

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

5

Half

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight 5 Devonshire Hotel – 20 Torquay

5

Half£164 £184

6

Half

5

Half£204 £174

6

Half

£244

7

Half

£334

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

5

5

5

£109– Isle of 24 Wight Russell Hotel – Weymouth 5 Hotel

Half

£139

May

Half

£124

05

Russell Hotel – Weymouth

21

5

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

5

June

Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a Standard Room. Supplements apply on twin/double rooms 04 Devonshire Hotel – Torquay5 Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne with sole23 occupancy. Optional local excursions can be booked at the hotel. Many more coach or self-drive holiday dates 09 Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight available in 2015. If you would prefer to self-drive, deduct 25 Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight 5 £20 per person from prices shown.

27 Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

Llandudno

£154

£214

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

18

£154

Half

5Daish’s Half

06

£124

7

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay 06

08

bournemouth

£154 Half

February 01

£89

5 5

19

Half

PRICE COACH DAYS BOARD INCLUSIVE PRICE

DESTINATION HOTEL

Russell Hotel – Weymouth

13

08

16

DAYS

COACH DAYS BOARD INCLUSIVE DATE PRICEMARCH

£164

£194

£169

£154

£244

£169

£179

Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a Standard Room. Supplements apply on twin/ double rooms with sole occupancy. Optional local excursions can be booked at the hotel. Many more coach or self-drive holiday dates available in 2016. If you would prefer to self-drive, deduct £20 per person from prices shown.

isle of wight Newquay

eastbourne

Weymouth

n available)

Call 01803 201 432 or visit daishs.com Weymouth Call 01202 638840 or visit daishs.com quote 50PLUSCHE quote 50PlusGB

facebook.com/daishs facebook.com/daishs Bournemouth Sands Hotel Somerset Hotel

Daish’s Hotel

Barrowfield Hotel

Claremont Hotel

Hotel Prince Regent

@daishs_holidays

@daishs

Russell Hotel

TRAVEL

Exotic Rivers of the World

By J e n n i e C a r r f r o m S i lv e r T rav e l A d v i s o r River cruising has been growing in popularity over the last five years, with many taking trips along the Rhine, Danube or Seine to enjoy the beauty to be found along these waterways of Europe. Historical cities, small towns and river bank scenery are part and parcel of every voyage. However, have you ever thought of exploring further afield on an Asian or Russian river?

River cruises can take you to exotic destinations, with much to explore and discover from the comfort of your floating hotel. Daily excursions allow you to discover the heartlands of new countries, which can be overlooked on ocean cruises. Our river cruising partners, see the fact box below for details, have a superb variety of itineraries and guide-accompanied shore visits that ensure you can immerse yourself in both the culture and history of the destination, whilst enjoying excellent on board facilities and dining.

The Yangtze and Li Rivers, China China has so much to offer visitors and the stunning scenery of the Yangtze is a real must-see one of these. It is Asia’s longest river and the third longest in the world. The Three Gorges, Wu, Qutung and Xiling, are quite magical, with towering mountains and limestone karsts on either side of a narrow passage, created by the upstream dam.

Often covered in mist, the atmosphere is other worldly and mystical.

Downstream the river is vast, with verdant countryside and agriculture on both banks or busy industrial cities utilising it for transport. You can take a short trip through the Gorges or spend longer travelling on the river, stopping at towns and cities on your voyage.

The Li River is famous for its wonderful scenery, with cormorant fishing taking place here, much as it has done for centuries. This is traditional China, with green fields, mountain cliff faces,

8

remarkable limestone caves and the city of Guilin.

The Irrawaddy River, Myanmar Since the late 20th century tourism in Myanmar has been encouraged by the

country’s ruling powers and whilst the number of tourists visiting is increasing, the country has retained its values and beliefs. It is as yet an unspoilt destination with a serious abundance of Buddhist temples.

The Irrawaddy is the main river in Myanmar, running through the middle of the country, from north to south, naturally being hugely important for cargo. It is also known as the ‘Road to Mandalay’ after Rudyard Kipling’s poem. It, too, flows through stunning gorges, above Mandalay, with fabulous rock faces, reaching to the sky. Below this busy city, the river joins with the Chindwin River, gets wider and flows southwest through the most populated area, down to the delta. Rangoon (Yangon), the former capital, is located here; it’s the largest city in Myanmar, with many interesting colonial buildings still remaining.

The Irrawaddy has three distinct regions: in the north forests of oak and pine, in the central lowlands there is

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The Ships In Asia, these tend to be far smaller than on European rivers, with maybe just 70 passengers or less, staying in truly beautiful staterooms, often in a colonial style, reminding you of times gone by. Picture yourself relaxing in comfortable rattan chairs or on teak loungers, beneath a gently whirring ceiling fan, watching the lush greenery pass you by. Travel on these vessels is luxurious and very comfortable, affording you a sanctuary after a busy day experiencing totally different and fascinating places.

Factbox A number of different river cruise companies offer trips on these wonderful and exotic rivers. The following are recommended by Silver Travel Advisor.

relatively little rainfall, so the forest are of teak and much agriculture takes place here. Finally in the delta region, the mangroves are a haven for birds, the river itself being home to crocodiles, turtles and the Irrawaddy dolphin, and land wildlife includes elephants, leopards, wild boar and dogs as well as macaque monkeys.

rapids, mirror-like lakes and vast fertile floodplains, its banks are home to over 60 million people who rely on it for food, water and transport. A little known fact is that the carp of the Mekong can grow to be nine feet long!

And not surprisingly, this fish forms the basis of many dishes eaten close to the river.

The Mekong River, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand

More well-known is Angkor Wat and the temples around Siem Reap, which are a real wonder of the world especially at sunrise. The beauty of Phnom Penh is found in the Khmer architecture and the Silver Palace is a prime example of this. The Vietnamese delta beyond and around Ho Chi Minh City is known as the ‘Rice Bowl’ due to the fertile soil and ease of irrigation.

The city itself has markets, French colonial architecture, the spectacular Jade Emperor Pagoda and great opportunities for karaoke!

This is a river that touches on many Asian countries and has played its part in conflict and co-operation. The most popular river cruises often start in Siem Reap in Cambodia and finish in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) in Vietnam, passing through Phnom Penh. These names conjure up images of beautiful palaces, monks in saffron robes and golden statues of Buddha.

The river flows through gorges, swift

Viking River Cruises www.vikingrivercruises.co.uk Call 0208 780 7900 Our thanks to Viking for the photographs for this article Ama Waterways www.amawaterways.com.

Call 0808 250 7047 Avalon Waterways www.avalonwaterways.com Call 0800 440 2798 Emerald Waterways www.emeraldwaterways.co.uk Call 0800 270 7017 Noble Caledonia www.noblecaledonia.co.uk Call 0207 752 0000 Riviera Travel www.rivieratravel.co.uk Call 01283 742354 Scenic www.scenic.co.uk Call 0808 102 1335 Uniworld www.uniworld.com/gb/ Call 0808 168 9231

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

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9

Exciting coach holidays to the best resorts in the UK, Ireland and Europe.

Holidays from

£59pp Every Break Includes..

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InterChoice has something for everyone..

From the moment you step onto your tour coach your holiday begins. Sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery as you are whisked away to your chosen destination. Many of the resorts that we feature have carefully selected hotels to ensure we provide you with reliable, quality accommodation.

Stylish accommodation in our chosen hotel resorts and holiday villages Use of sports and leisure facilities including indoor swimming pools (where appropriate)

The majority of our coach holidays include excursions as outlined in the itinerary, and our friendly experienced drivers and staff are on hand to help you every step of the way.

Lots of daytime activities including dance and singing workshops (where appropriate)

We are proud of our expanding fleet of modern coaches which offer our customers the highest standards of safety, comfort and style. This together with our experienced drivers will enable you to have an enjoyable journey to your holiday destination.

A range of dazzling live entertainment

only

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Ireland

TRADITIONAL IRELAND & THE SOUTH EAST 7th March 2016 4 ngts at Lawlors Hotel - Dungarvan • Welcome punch reception on arrival • 4 nights Bed & Irish breakfast • 4 choice evening meals with tea/coffee • Entertainment on at least 2 nights • Irish Coffee demo & Tasting • Return cruise ferry crossings • Free Irish Gift

Group Holidays Whether you are amongst the many different groups and organisations that regularly travel with us or a new group organiser looking to travel with us for the first time, we believe our holidays represent excellent value for money and are hard to beat on price. Included in your holiday is travel direct to your resort with no interchanges, and many holidays include porterage, entertainment and excursions.

Award Winning Holidays With your help we have won several awards for maintaining the highest standards in the industry and for this we are eternally grateful. However, we do not rest on our laurels and continue to strive to provide the best service possible. Recognition has come from readers of both Group Leisure and Group Travel Organiser Magazines, who have the deciding vote, and they continue to give

VALUE GETAWAY, 5 DAYS HALF BOARD BREAKS FROM only

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PER PERSON

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Dublin - Irish Grand National

Guided tour and entrance to Grand National & Kilbeggan Whiskey Distillery

26th March 2016 4 Days (3 Nights) H/B Return Coach Travel

Scarborough

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Mon 21st March 2016 5 Days (4 Nights) H/B Return Coach Travel

BACK TO

BACHARACH

THE MUSIC OF BURT BACHARACH

Door2Door Pick-ups available in your local area

Comfortable, air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats, toilet, fridge and air suspension on board all coaches.

Hotel

Date

Board

Days

Price

It’s a mystery!

12 Mar

H/B

2 Days

£59

Bedford Hotel - Sidmouth

20 Mar

H/B

5 Days

£289

Preston Sands - Paignton

21 Mar

H/B

5 Days

£189

Spring Leisure Break

Royal Hotel - Woolacombe

28 Mar

H/B

5 Days

£179

Excursion to Dartington Glass

Durrant House Hotel - Bideford

28 Mar

H/B

5 Days

£195

Spring Leisure Break

Baytree Hotel - Llandudno

4 April

H/B

5 Days

£209

Spring Leisure Break

Warner Sinah Warren & Lakeside

2 May

H/B

5 Days

£289

Spring Leisure Break

Clifton Hotel - Scarborough

2 May

H/B

5 Days

£239

Spring Leisure Break

The Monterey Hotel - Lytham St Annes

13 May

H/B

4 Days

£169

Spring Leisure Break

Russell Hotel - Weymouth

15 May

H/B

5 Days

£265

SandBay - Weston-s-Mare

30 May

H/B

5 Days

£139

Warner Bembridge Hotel - Isle of Wight

21 Nov

H/B

5 Days

£309

Turkey & Tinsel

Mansion Lions Hotel - Eastbourne

21 Nov

H/B

5 Days

£235

Turkey & Tinsel

Cricket St Thomas - Somerset

5 Dec

H/B

5 Days

£329

Turkey & Tinsel

Rainbow Hotel - Torquay

23 Dec

H/B

5 Days

£395

Christmas F/B Xmas and Boxing Day

Preston Sands Hotel - Paignton

23 Dec

H/B

5 Days

£449

Christmas F/B Xmas and Boxing Day

SandBay - Weston-s-Mare

23 Dec

H/B

5 Days

£319

Christmas Break

Bournemouth Destination Special

23 Dec

H/B

5 Days

£249

Christmas Break

Scarborough Destination Special

23 Dec

H/B

5 Days

£249

Christmas Break

Royal Bath Hotel - Bournemouth

30 Dec

H/B

4 Days

£279

New Year Gala Hogmany

Seacroft Holiday Village

Showcase Weekend Great Yarmouth

only

£129pp

Theme Llandudno? Weston? Chester? Bristol?

Includes trip to Exeter Cathedral

Spring Leisure Break 1Night 1/2price Bar + Happy Hour Each Eve

Staying in contact with InterChoice is so easy..

Staying in touch with InterChoice has never been so easy. our website, Interactive App, Free Text Messaging Alerts, Email Blasts and not forgetting both Twitter and Facebook OUR VERY OWN APP We now have our very own App especially developed for your mobile phone and tablet devices. You can download the app from the iPhone App Store and Google Play Store.

Bournemouth

The Britannia Hotel

Mon 18th April 2016 5 Days (4 Nights) H/B Return Coach Travel

only

£119pp

Isle of Wight

The Medehamstede Hotel

Mon 18th April 2016 5 Days (4 Nights) H/B Return Coach Travel

only

£205pp Hayling Island Mill Rythe Holiday Village

Mon 25th April 2016 5 Days (4 Nights) H/B Return Coach Travel

We are in Wolverhampton The Old Mill, 44 Berry Street, Wolverhampton. WV1 1HA Opening Hours: Mon- Fri 09:00am - 17:30pm www.interchoice.co.uk facebook.com/interchoiceholidays

FREE TEXT ALERTS Keep track of all the latest special offers with our Text Alerts service. They’re secure and FREE - Just text the wordHOLIDAY to our exclusive customer mobile 0775 1303 321

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LETS BE SOCIAL Follow us on Facebook, You Tube and Twitter

Fri 1st April 2016 4 Days (3 Nights) H/B Return Coach Travel

Telephone one of our special booking numbers:

50 Plus Travel

sponsored by

Is Camping Fun for Empty Nesters?

BY Steve Aldridge

Steve Aldridge from Silver Travel Advisor explores the Loire Valley from his very comfortable mobile home with Canvas Holidays Camping, without kids? That’s intense! (well not “in tents”, as we were actually staying in a mobile home but never let the facts spoil a good joke).

Canvas Holidays helped us choose somewhere relatively flat and quiet, with interesting surroundings and booked that alongside Eurotunnel reservations. With a few essentials packed (Baked Beans and toilet roll) we were off to the Château des Marais site in the Loire Valley.

With the cries of “are we there yet” missing, a leisurely drive west of Paris took us to our destination. We admired the largest Gothic cathedral in France at Amiens and stayed at the picture perfect Honfleur. Many painters still follow in Monet’s footsteps and easels abound at the Vieux Bassin (old dock).

Upon arrival, friendly Canvas staff familiarised us with our 2 bedroom mobile home, which was set in a quiet wooded area, with plenty of dappled shade. We had a comfortable lounge to relax in, well equipped kitchen and welcome en-suite facilities. Outside

was a raised decking area with table, chairs and umbrella, perfect for outdoor dining, cups of tea and sampling the local produce such as cheese and wine (it would be rude not to support the local economy wouldn’t it?).

Chairs, sun loungers and BBQ completed the “ahhh this is all very relaxing” kit. The grounds were very well maintained and the woodland nature of the site allows for the tents and mobile homes to be broken into a succession of quiet secluded areas. Open grassy areas, flower beds, swimming pools, reading and games room, restaurant, bar and shop complete the generous facilities on site.

Close by is a jewel of the French Renaissance, Château de Chambord, the largest in the Loire Valley. When Francois I started the build in 1519, he set out to impress everyone who came here and WOW did he get that

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TRAVEL It took about an hour to get to the Château de Chenonceau from the site and we stuck to the minor routes to get a look at some of the smaller towns and villages along the way. This made for a really interesting drive, on which we saw smaller Châteaux, churches and were impressed by some of the villages that take a real pride in beautifying their homes with flowers and shaped hedges.

With the horrors of outdoor toilets and showers avoided by having a comfortable mobile home, this proved to be an excellent base to explore this beautiful area and a relaxing and enjoyable holiday.

Sign us up for the next camping trip.

right. This Château sports an amazing collection of turrets, chimneys and lanterns, which make Cinderella’s castle look a bit boring really. The English audio guide navigates us around this architectural wonder, following a route that did its best not to miss any of the selection of 440 rooms, 365 fireplaces, 84 staircases and 4500 works of art covering paintings, tapestries and furniture that were accessible to visitors. The most impressive staircase is the doublehelix staircase that Leonardo da Vinci may well have had a hand in designing. A wonderful outing is concluded with a picnic in the vast and impressive grounds that surround the Château, claimed to be the largest enclosed forest park in Europe, with 5440 hectares to enjoy.

The area around the campsite is relatively flat and there are something like 550 Km of cycle friendly paths, trails and back roads to enjoy, perfect for us to go walking.

The Loire Valley between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes is a UNESCO World heritage site and is described as an outstanding cultural landscape of great (I would say exceptional) beauty. We walked for hours along the river Loire and there are some handy parking spots so you can pick up where you left off the day before, without walking the same route again. For a couple of days the temperature was perfect, the sun shone, the dragon flies danced above the reeds with electric blue reflecting in their wings, wild orchids beamed from the bank, trees shed their fluffy white blossom so that occasionally it seemed we were walking through a snowstorm. Hand in hand, at that moment in time, there was no place in the world we’d rather be. The walking paths/bike trails were fairly deserted and we’d walk for quite some time before passing another soul. Nearly all greeted us with a cheery bonjour.

With so many Châteaux in the Loire Valley, we chose Château de Chenonceau, for a second day out. Building began in the 16th century and it is significantly smaller than Château de Chambord, but its outstanding feature is that it spans the Cher River using a number of elegant arches. The gallery that sits above it is said to have been the venue for many an interesting party in its day. There were also beautiful gardens, a maze and waxworks to admire.

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Factbox Canvas Holidays offers luxury self-catering tent, mobile home and lodge holidays at over 100 of the finest campsites in Europe. Destinations span across 8 European countries including France, Spain and Italy. Canvas Holidays provides accommodation to suit all budgets, offering flexibility on dates, duration and travel arrangements.

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James Martin

Plates, Mates and Automobiles: The Tour!

“I’ve always said I wouldn’t tour because I’ve always felt I didn’t have the right support team in place, but I have now,” he explains. “I’m not doing another, though – there won’t be a second tour!”

The friendly but very decided Yorkshireman had spoken, and that was that. So his fans – of which there are many up and down the country as pre-ticket sales of 30,000 and sold-out venues happily proved– will just have to accept that.

JAMES Martin – the chef who has made Saturday morning TV a must for millions of viewers – is currently on a 25-venue nationwide tour when we chatted and had made a vow: this would be his first, and last, tour.

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They have, though, accepted the 44 year-old Martin and how he wanted to structure his career from the first moment he stepped onto our screens in November, 1996.

The pleasant and obviously talented young chef immediately impressed, but insisted on doing things his way. And that’s how it has been ever since.

Fortunately – both for James and for us viewers – his cookery skills and onscreen charisma have created exactly the right recipe for enduring success.

It would have been hard to forecast the level of success, however, when he was a young lad growing up on the Castle Howard estate where his

father was a catering manager. Plainly, this influenced him because at 16 he started formal catering training in college which resulted in him being Student of the Year three years running.

After catering college, he worked for a variety of top chefs in leading restaurants including for famous names Antony Worrall Thompson and Marco Pierre White.

He toured France, working in chateaux kitchens and gaining toplevel experience before coming back to England and kickstarting his own career. He was plainly ambitious and in 1994, just before his 22nd birthday, he opened his own hotel and bistro in Winchester. Since, he has opened other hotels including one in Manchester.

From his first TV appearance, James quickly engaged with a public which both appreciated his sociable approach to cookery and also his no-nonsense way with food. Youth and natural charm did the rest and when Saturday Kitchen launched in 2006, he was first choice to front the enjoyable and informative programme.

The formula paid off as it became

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CELEBRITY NEWS hugely popular, regularly attracting more than 3.5 million viewers and remains part of the staple weekend entertainment diet. James also became a regular on Ready Steady Cook on BBC2 and for a variety of other cookery shows across the channels.

In 2013, James was honoured with The Craft Guild of Chefs Special Award for outstanding contribution to the industry. In March, 2014, his series Food Map of Britain was voted Best Daytime and Early Peak Programme by the Royal Televison Society, and in 2015 he was named TV Personality of the Year at the Fortnum & Mason Awards.

He also makes regular appearances around the world including the BBC Good Food Show and Good Food and Wine Show South Africa and Gourmet Abu Dhabi to name just a few.

He has his own range of small electricals with Wahl Cookware, knives and kitchen textiles with Stellar/ Horwoods and serverware with Denby.

James has also launched his own range of bread and cake mixes and hampers, was a consultant with P & O Cruises on the restaurants and menus for their Ocean Village cruise ships for many years and is also consultant to Thomas Cook, creating in-flight meals for the airline.

Somehow in between all his achievements and a work schedule that would make a hummingbird dizzy, he has written 15 best-selling and awardwinning cookery books as well as his autobiography, Driven.

The title doesn’t only refer to his ambitions but also to his love of cars and speed; he also has a pilot’s licence.

The tour – entitled Plates, Mates and Automobiles – provided a unique challenge for the chef who takes most things in his stride because he wanted to get the formula just right.

“I didn’t just want to have two ovens on stage, give a bit of chat and have questions planted with the audience,” he states. “So we made it more interesting with interactive elements and various surprises.”

So, importantly, what will he eat on this tour? “Good question,” he ruminates.

“Probably the usual chef’s diet of takeaways! Actually, several of my mates who have restaurants around the country have already told me to come and see them when I’m touring so I’ll probably get to eat there.”

All of which sounds like a possible theme for a further TV series, I suggest.

“Yes,” he laughs. “You might be right.”

What you won’t find James Martin doing work-wise is Celebrity Big Brother or any other reality TV show.

True, he did take part in Strictly Come Dancing in 2006 but you get the impression he just fancied the challenge.

He’s a genuine advocate of the best of British food, but then he says he believes in the best of food wherever it comes from – “whether that means Spanish ham or British produce.

Personally, his favourite meal is a Sunday roast round at his mum’s house – although he did hint that he would be looking for the best region for fish and chips when touring, which is bound to prove controversial.

He’s very proud of Saturday Kitchen’s success over the past 10 years, he has strived to get the programme balance just right, but has “thoroughly enjoyed it all.”

However James recently announced that he will leave the programme at the end of March, saying he was looking forward to working on new projects - and having a lie-in on Saturday mornings.

James quoted “it’s been an amazing journey. I would like to personally thank all the viewers for turning Saturday kitchen into a three million-plus smash hit.”

“I could not have done it without them.

I would also like to thank the BBC and Saturday Kitchen for the great opportunity they gave me.”

“It has been an amazing journey and I have been privileged to work with some of the world’s greatest chefs and some of the greatest names in showbiz.

I wish the new chefs every success.

As for his career in 2016, as well as working on his house in the New Forest for which he’s now got planning permission, he’s going to be looking at a variety of options “but the main thing is just working hard.”

He doesn’t have any special TV ambitions, doesn’t embrace the celebrity lifestyle with red carpet events and insists that “if it all finished tomorrow I’d be happy just cooking.”

And being James Martin, you know that this is exactly what he feels, like it or lump it.

For more information go to www.jamesmartinchef.co.uk

Tickets for James Martin’s tour, ‘Plates, Mates and Automobiles’ are on sale now. Visit Livenation.co.uk’ www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

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Downsizing & Decluttering THERE comes a time for many of us when we look around at our previously much-loved home and decide the time has come to downsize to something smaller.

This may be because your family has left to become independent and the property that once seemed to be bursting at the seams is just too big. It may be that you need to move to more convenient housing because health or financial necessities demand it, or because you would just prefer to look after and maintain a smaller place.

There are more options than ever for retirement living these days and, while property can help fund your care home should you need it, another route is to rent a retirement property.

Whatever you do next, you may well be faced with having to sell a property that reflects years of a happy home life. And that can mean a mass of possessions that may not fit into your downsized new home.

In order to sell a property, it needs to be as clear as possible of the life of the previous owner so that a potential-buyer can see where he or she might fit their lifestyle into it.

Decluttering your home takes a particular mind-set and genuine determination. In fact, as professional declutterer Amanda Manson of Orderly Office and Home points out: “The thought of what you’re going to do with everything might fill you with utter dread!”

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She recommends a simple plan of action:

START NOW Beginning decluttering well in advance of putting your property on the market assists in a quick sale and spreads the load over time. “Try 10 minutes a day,” she advises, “little and often. Don’t try a whole room in one go – you’ll end up exhausted and disheartened. Keep in the forefront of your mind your goal of moving into a new home and you’ll be spurred on to continue each day.”

MAKE A LIST Keep track of where everything is. “If your new home has been agreed, assign a number to each room, and pack your belongings in a box numbered accordingly,” says Amanda. “If your new home hasn’t been decided yet, start grouping like items with like. Pack Winter/ Summer clothing together, pictures and ornaments, books and bedding (always spread books across several boxes – your removal men will thank you!). Remember to label everything.”

REALITY CHECK

Amanda Manson

Orderly Office and Home

you haven’t worn in over a year you might never wear again so out it goes, along with gifts that you’ll never use. Give them to relatives or friends, a local charity, sell them in the local paper or on an auction site or list them online for free collection. Adds Amanda: “Recycle unwanted items where possible, but if unsuitable then it’s a trip to your local rubbish tip or a call to your local council for removal.”

SIZE MATTERS If you have no garden, garage or guest room in your new home be realistic about whether you’ll use certain items like, for example, a lawnmower if you’re going somewhere with a serviced garden or no garden. Is your furniture too big for your new property? Try to imagine the bare minimum you could manage living with, and take it from there. “Often the additional ‘stuff’ we keep with us becomes an emotional weight around our necks,” states Amanda.

Look at what’s in your home and ask yourself “Do I use it, love it or need it?”

If the answer is “no”, is it time to say goodbye? Amanda suggests that clothing

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HOME A GIFT TO YOUR CHILDREN If your loft has been home to items belonging to children like their earliest artwork, toys and other memories, now is the time to give them back. Explain your reasons, keep what you really can’t bear to part with and ask them to collect what’s left, with a deadline.

VISIBLE SPACES All open surfaces and room space should be as clear as possible ready for estate agents’ photographs. “Buyers can be easily put off by what appears to be a cramped or cluttered space,” observes Amanda.

HIDDEN SPACES Don’t just wonder if prospective buyers will look inside your cupboards. They will.

If you have fitted wardrobes and sleek kitchen cupboards, buyers will want to know what they can fit into them.

STORE UNTIL YOU MOVE If you have a move date, this makes deciding what to keep out and what to pack away and what can go much easier.

Without one, you’ll have to get organised.

Box up seasonal items and store them away in a loft, garage or in a storage facility until you move and keep your cupboards, wardrobes and kitchen space for things you use often.

STOP BUYING MORE! If you’re really set on making the move, start paring down any consumables right now, insists Amanda. “Sort through kitchen cupboards and freezer to see what meals you can make with what you already have. Discard out of date items, meal plan and make amends to your shopping list so you’re only buying the item you really need each week.

Repeat the process with your bathroom cupboards and toiletries – and avoid the BOGOF temptations as it’s just more stuff to move.”

PAPERWORK AND READING MATERIAL As the years go by, it’s easy to let papers build up. “Sort through your paperwork piles and discard or shred anything that you really don’t need like outdated bills, manuals for items you don’t now have and old magazines,” says Amanda.

* For more information go to: www.orderlyofficeandhome.co.uk

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Quick Move Properties’ long-standing relationships with a wide range of national and independent retirement property specialists give them access to retirement properties available throughout the country, enabling them to carry out a property search based on the criteria you supply. Once they’ve found the property of your dreams, they will then handle the sale of your existing property, guiding and supporting you through the whole process. visit: www.PerfectRetirementHome.com

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840917 or visit www.perfectretirementhome.com 17

HOME

CHANGING THE MOOD OF YOUR HOME B Y AN G ELA K ELLY

CHANGING the mood of your home is a definite way to alter and improve your lifestyle in 2016.

The wonderful thing about this positive decision is that it can cost as much – or as little – as you want it to, involving differences to your home that are radical or merely minor.

“It really all depends on your budget and how much change you want, your circumstances and your surrounding space,” explains interior designer Allyson Houghton from Ideas Interior.

She has noticed that a major trend in improving homes today involves glass and letting in plenty of natural light through glass walls and roofs. “This is a natural improver of your mood and helps bring the outside in,” she adds.

Select your builder carefully, preferably on recommendation, and see for yourself the kind of work he has already carried out. Look at the planning permission or building control approval

Chris Bull from Taurus Interiors believes that light is crucial to improving living areas. “In bathrooms and kitchens you generally want brighter lights, with softer lighting in the lounge and bedrooms,” he states.

Try panels on the walls that reflect light. “LED lighting is so far advanced now that you can change the mood whenever you want,” he adds. “There is even a switch with eight different settings in one.”

If you are planning major changes to alter the whole mood and atmosphere of your property and way of living, it may well be worth investing in an extension to provide more rooms or an extra bathroom.

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Allyson Houghton Ideas Interiors is an established Interior Design Studio based in the heart of Lancashire, and their client geographic stretches from The Highlands to London and further afield in Europe.

you might need first by checking on the Government website www.planningportal.gov.uk “Conservatories and orangeries are also very popular these days,” says Allyson, ”and you can often finally achieve the lifestyle you dreamed of by having this improvement in light and space.”

There are many varying styles of both available and, again, choose your supplier carefully. Go online and study the styles that would both complement your own home and will provide the changes you want or visit local showrooms.

“Sometimes, just painting your home, improving the garden or patio and adding colourful pots of plants and flowers can change the whole look of your home and lift your mood, too,” states Allyson.

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Take a look at your existing frontdoor: does it need sprucing up with a lick of paint or do you need a new one? A modern front-door, often with smart glass panels, can make quite a difference to your hallway – “and this area is the gateway to your home as it’s the first thing visitors see so it really needs to give a good impression,” says Allyson.

Lighting around your home is a major improver of mood and feelings. Allyson advises investing in dimmer switches to change the lighting as your own mood changes, and use good-quality candles around the home. “These not only give out a lovely light but can also scent your home – and the senses need soothing in this way so they are a definite mood-changer.”

If you’re buying new light fittings, while it’s useful to see what is available by going online, it’s always best to go into shops and stores and see light fittings for yourself and the effect they have on an area.

Be careful about choosing wall colours and décor throughout your property.

Bold colours like reds and greens can be harsh but if you want a more relaxing ambience, neutral shades and gentler colours like blues and lilacs can soothe and improve how you feel as soon as you step through the door.

Colour is vital in your home. Introducing colour will change a room, and different rooms need different colours which send out different messages, so it’s important to get it right.

If you’ve definitely got a generous budget for changes, investing in a new lounge suite that offers a more comfortable way to relax is worth the effort.

But, Allyson advises that if you have a really good suite or sofa that’s more than 15 years-old but looking the worse for wear these days, consider having it re-upholstered instead. “Older furniture

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can be particularly well-made and some good suites are certainly worth keeping – I never advise throwing away one like that,” she says. “Find a good upholsterer to give your suite or sofa a more modern look and you’ll be amazed at the difference this makes.

And if you can’t afford re-upholstering, invest in a couple of attractive throws to alter the way they look.”

Changing a room’s colourscheme by getting the help of a recommended painter and decorator – or simply doing it yourself – can bring a main room like a lounge into the 21st century.

Use a central colour, adds Allyson, and accentuate this with toning cushions and other soft furnishings and you’ll be surprised at how fresh your home is starting to look.

New curtains and drapes that frame windows beautifully can also open up a room, adding to that lovely new décor.

This new style can be repeated around the home in varying ways. Having a new kitchen is a welcome, major addition to your property and certainly worth the investment if yours is looking jaded and old-fashioned.

“Or adding new unit doors and work surfaces can also re-vamp a kitchen,” states Allyson. “Smart new flooring, a new sink and taps can really cheer up your kitchen and make it look modern.”

Floor coverings generally can alter the look and mood of your home – and you don’t need to spend a fortune to make rooms smarter and feel so much more comfortable, which improves your quality of living.

A new bathroom might be your dream – and a great place for relaxing. Baths are a real style item today and it’s worth having a look around for just the right shape and style. The same goes for your bathroom tiling and décor – “but sometimes just having candles lit in your bathroom can make a difference,” insists Allyson.

Your bedroom is definitely a place that needs to reflect a relaxing mood, so does it need a revamp? New units completely change this room, and improve your lifestyle by having a place for everything.

On a simpler level, new bedding, cushions and a new carpet can make this room into a wonderfully restive place – and investing in a new bed is definitely an ongoing mood-changer that gives you the right level of sleep, every night.

• For more information go to: www.ideasinterior.co.uk www.taurusinteriors.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK JAMES MARTIN’S

S W E E T T R E AT S The secret to a perfect panna cotta lies in having a slight sharpness – here from buttermilk – to balance the sweetness. The consistency is also important: too much gelatine will give you something you could bounce off the kitchen wall; you want to use just enough for the panna cotta to hold its shape when unmoulded. Combined with raspberry jelly, raspberries and warm, sugar-dusted doughnuts, this is a really delicious dessert on the plate. The remaining doughnuts are great with coffee.

B U T T E R M I L K PA N N A C O T TA W I T H D O U G H N U T S A N D R A S P B E R RY J E L LY For the doughnuts 1 quantity enriched yeast dough, made to the end of the first prove vegetable oil, for deep-frying caster sugar, for dusting For the mascarpone cream 100g mascarpone cheese 25g caster sugar 50ml double cream 1 vanilla pod, split and seeds scraped First make the panna cotta. Place the double cream in a small pan with the vanilla pod and seeds, bring to the boil, then remove from the heat. Add the drained, squeezed gelatine and whisk through until dissolved.

Set aside to cool, then add the buttermilk and whisk gently to combine.

Carefully pour into 8 small pudding basins or ramekins, making sure you distribute the vanilla seeds equally.

Refrigerate for 4 hours, or until set.

Serves 8 250g raspberries, plus 100g for garnish 1 tbsp water 1–2 tsp icing sugar 6 mint sprigs For the panna cotta 300ml double cream 1 vanilla pod, split and seeds scraped 5 gelatine leaves, soaked in cold water for 5 minutes 450ml buttermilk For the raspberry jelly 50g caster sugar 100ml water 300g raspberries 4 gelatine leaves, soaked in cold water for 5 minutes 20

For the sauce, place the 250g raspberries, the water and icing sugar in a blender and blitz to a purée. Pass through a fine sieve into a bowl and add more icing sugar if necessary. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

For the jelly, bring the sugar and water to a boil in a pan. Add the raspberries and heat until they just start to break down. Remove from the heat and pass through a fine sieve. Don’t press, just let the juice drip through.

Measure 300ml juice and return to the saucepan to warm through. Add the drained, squeezed gelatine and stir until completely dissolved. Remove from the

heat. Line a shallow baking tray (20cm x 15cm) with clingfilm and pour the jelly over it to a depth of about 3mm. Chill in the fridge until set.

For the doughnuts, divide the dough into 40 equal portions and roll into balls. Line a tray with silicone paper and space the balls evenly across it. Cover with a tea towel. Set aside at room temperature to prove for 20 minutes.

When the dough has proved, heat the oil in a deep-fat fryer to 150°C/320°F. Alternatively, heat the oil in a deep, heavy-based saucepan until a breadcrumb sizzles and turns brown immediately when dropped in.

CAUTION: hot oil can be dangerous.

Never leave unattended.

Carefully lower the dough balls into the hot oil in batches and deep-fry for 3–4 minutes, until golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on kitchen paper to drain. Transfer to a plate and dust generously with the sugar.

For the mascarpone cream, whisk the mascarpone, sugar, cream and vanilla seeds together in a bowl until smooth.

To serve, cut the jelly into squares (about 2.5cm). Briefly dip each panna cotta mould in hot water, then turn out onto a large plate. Place two spoonfuls of the cream on each plate and top with a jelly square. Place two doughnuts on each plate and scatter the remaining raspberries and the mint around. Finish with a drizzle of raspberry sauce.

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I first came across really good palmiers when I was working on the pastry section in a restaurant in the south of France. The trick is to get an even dusting of sugar, so that as the palmiers cook it caramelises to a nice glaze.

Palmiers are often offered as a petit four to end a meal, but sandwiched with raspberries and cream, they’re hard to beat for afternoon tea. These are best served at room temperature – once they go into the fridge, the butter in the pastry solidifies, making them less pleasant to eat.

BUTTERFLY PALMIERS WITH RASPBERRIES AND CREAM Serves 6 650g puff pastry or good-quality, bought all-butter puff pastry flour, for dusting 60g caster sugar 100ml stock syrup glaze (optional) For the filling 300ml double cream, softly whipped 200g raspberries Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas mark 4. Line 2 large baking sheets with silicone paper.

Roll the pastry out on a lightly floured surface to a rectangle 25cm x 40cm and about 3mm thick, with the long side facing

you, like a landscape picture.

Dust the pastry rectangle with 20g of the caster sugar then fold one long side of the pastry into the centre. Repeat with the other long side to meet it, so you now have a piece half the width. Dust with another 20g of the caster sugar, then repeat, folding each side into the centre, leaving a 5mm gap in the centre. Dust once more with the remaining sugar and repeat – you should now have three folds on each side with plenty of sugar sandwiched in between. Fold both sides together gently as you would close an open book, then transfer to a tray and place in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up.

Remove the roll and cut into 12 x 1cm-thick slices. Lay on a lined baking tray, spacing them so that they are at least 6cm apart. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and crispy.

Remove the palmiers from the oven, turn them straight over, place back on the tray and brush them with a little stock syrup glaze, if liked. The palmiers are best eaten on the day you make them.

When cold, spoon the whipped cream into a piping bag fitted with a 1cm nozzle and pipe the cream over half the palmiers.

Top with some lightly crushed raspberries and another palmier.

Serve immediately.

THE EDGEMOOR INN Approximately half way between Stroud and Gloucester, The Edgemoor Inn overlooks the beautiful, picturesque Painswick Valley and the village of Painswick, a quintessential English village known as ‘The Queen of the Cotswolds’.

There are over 100 listed buildings in the village, which is a total conservation area.

It has a rich history with a particularly colourful period during the Civil War when the Roundheads took refuge in the parish church of St.Mary, which dates from the eleventh century.

The late 19th century Inn, constructed from Cotswold stone, has picture style windows and is well known for its pretty panoramic views. Our property boasts an extensive terraced patio overlooking Painswick & surrounding countryside.

Edgemoor Inn sources as much fresh meat, fish & vegetables from local suppliers.

An extensive range of home cooked meals and daily specials are served each day lunchtime and evening. Vegetarian menus are always available. We serve the finest selection of local real ales from Uley, Wickwar and Stroud.

The Edgemoor Inn offers the very best in traditional Cotswold pub and restaurant dining - a warm welcome in delightful surroundings with well-presented home-cooked food. This is a combination that’s hard to beat.

TEL: 01452 813576 WWW.EDGEMOORINN.COM EDGE, NEAR STROUD, GLOUCESTERSHIRE GL6 6ND

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FOOD & DRINK I love this simple little dessert that one of my chefs came up with – cherries and chocolate are a great combination.

As with any tart, it’s vital to make sure the pastry is nice and thin, so you get plenty of filling and not too much pastry. Otherwise it can be more like eating a biscuit!

C H O C O L AT E A N D C H E R R Y TA R T WITH CRÈME FRAÎCHE SORBET Serves 8–10 butter, for greasing 1 quantity pâte sucrée 1 egg yolk, for blind-baking flour, for dusting 400g tin cherries in syrup 400g dark chocolate (minimum 60% cocoa solids), roughly chopped 250ml double cream 100g caster sugar 2 tbsp crushed Hazelnut Praline and edible flowers 1 quantity Crème Fraîche Sorbet Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas mark 6. Butter a 23cm x 4cm loose-bottomed tart tin.

Roll the pâte sucrée out on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of 3mm and use to line the tin. Blind bake the pastry.

While the pastry case is baking, drain the cherries through a sieve into a saucepan and place the syrup over a medium heat. Cook the syrup until thick and sticky, and reduced by half. Chop the cherries in half, then add to the pan with the reduced syrup and allow to cool.

Put the chocolate into a large, heatproof bowl. Heat the double cream and sugar together in a saucepan until just simmering then pour over the chocolate and whisk continuously until smooth.

Spread the cherries and their syrup over the base of the tart case, then pour the chocolate filling over the top. Glaze with a blow torch or place under a hot grill until bubbling, then chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to set. Remove and leave at room temperature until ready to serve. Place a line of the crushed praline and edible flowers on each plate, then slice the tart and serve with a scoop of Crème Fraîche Sorbet.

Sweet by James Martin (Quadrille £20) Photography: Peter Cassidy

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www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

ORION

THE DAZZLING HUNTER WITH THE GLOWING SWORD

by Brian Jones Visible high above the southern horizon during winter evenings, Orion is arguably the most beautiful constellation in the sky. Its conspicuous and unmistakable pattern of bright stars becomes ever more prominent as winter progresses and, once seen, is unlikely to be forgotten.

Greek mythology tells of the mighty hunter Orion who boasted far and wide of his prowess and who declared himself a match even for the gods.

This angered Diana, the Goddess of the Hunt, who challenged Orion to a hunting match, a challenge which Orion gladly accepted. He and Diana spent many days in the chase, but in the end there was nothing to choose between them, and the contest was declared a draw. Once more Orion

bragged and, in a fit of anger, Diana commanded a scorpion to crawl out of the ground and kill him. She then placed the mighty hunter among the stars where he can be seen to this day.

One of the most conspicuous stars in Orion is the red giant Betelgeuse.

This is one of the largest stars known to astronomers and, if Betelgeuse occupied the position of our Sun, its outer surface would extend beyond the orbit of Mars. The ruddy glow of Betelgeuse contrasts sharply with the brilliant white of Rigel, another giant star which is so far away that the light we are seeing from it set off towards us only a few years after the Domesday Book was compiled.

Along with Betelgeuse and Rigel, the two stars Bellatrix and Saiph complete

the main outline of the constellation, central to which are the three stars Alnitak, Alnilam and Mintaka that form the Belt of Orion. The easternmost of these is Alnitak, the area immediately surrounding which is rich in stars and well worth a closer look through binoculars.

The trio of stars forming the Belt of Orion have been given other names in the past, Australian natives referring to them as ‘Young Men’, Greenlanders calling them ‘The Seal Hunters’ and mariners identifying them as ‘The Golden Yardarm’.

Perhaps the silliest episode relating to the naming of these three stars took place in 1807 when the University of Leipzig christened them ‘Napoleon’, whereupon an irate Englishman promptly retaliated with the title ‘Nelson’. Needless to say, neither name found its way on to star maps!

Just below the Belt of Orion is a line of faint stars, within which can be found the magnificent Orion Nebula.

Visible as a glowing patch of diffuse light, this is one of the most famous and eye-catching objects in the entire sky. Shining because of the energy from hot stars embedded within it, the Orion Nebula is clearly visible to the naked eye on dark, clear moonless nights. The wide field of view of a pair of binoculars brings it out well, and the sight leaves the observer with a sense of wonder when it is realised that inside this glowing cloud stars are actually being formed.

It may be winter, and the nights are predictably cold.

However, don’t let that stop you checking out what the impressive Orion has to offer.

Happy stargazing!

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23

PENSION NEWS ....

In April 2015, the government introduced landmark changes to the pensions system, the Economic Secretary to the Treasury Harriett Baldwin tells 50 Plus Magazine readers what these new pension freedoms really mean...

1. What do the new freedoms mean for me?

2015 was a big year for pensions. The government completed the first stage of its pension freedoms revolution giving people just like you, aged 55 or over with a defined contribution pension, real choice over how they use their hardearned savings. The freedoms we introduced on the 6 April 2015 mean that for the first time you can now decide what do to with every pound you’ve worked to save, including when and how you access that money.

2. What’s changed from the old system?

We’ve made it easier for you to access your defined contribution pension pot how you like. As was previously the case you can take a quarter of it as a tax-free lump sum. What has changed is that instead of being charged 55% tax if you withdraw your pot, the amount of tax you pay on anything after the first 25% will now depend on the amount of other income you have in that year.

3. Can everyone take advantage of these freedoms?

The new freedoms apply to those with a defined contribution pension aged 55 and over who are looking to access their pension pot. People with funded Defined Benefit pensions can transfer to Defined Contributions to take advantage of the freedoms.

4. I have a defined contribution pension – what options do I have available to me?

You can buy an annuity, or take your pension all out in one go, or withdraw it bit by bit and leave some of it invested. You could also mix and match your options – for example taking out just some and using the rest to buy an annuity. We also believe that you should be able to switch providers like you can switch your bank, we believe that this means more choice for you the consumer.

5. I don’t understand what this all means, where can I go for help?

We know pensions can be confusing, that is why this we set up Pension Wise, a free and impartial service designed to help people like you. A good place to start is to speak to your provider and visit the Pension Wise website, which explains your options in clear, easy to understand language. If you are aged 50 and over you can also book an appointment with one of Pension Wise’s trained guiders, who can talk through your options with you over the phone or in person at your local Citizen’s Advice Bureau – whichever is more convenient.

To book an appointment, you can visit the Pension Wise website at www.pensionwise.gov.uk, or call 0300 330 1001.

6. How much tax will I have to pay to take my money?

Currently, you’re still allowed a 25pc tax-free element of your pension. The difference is that you can now decide whether to take the first 25pc of your pot tax-free, or to have 25pc of each withdrawal tax-free.

Understanding how much tax you could pay to access your savings can be confusing, that’s why it’s important to seek guidance and financial advice before you make any decisions.

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7. Will it cost me anything to access my money?

We believe that you shouldn’t face any barriers when accessing your pension savings; the government will be responding shortly to the Pension Transfers and Early Exit Charges consultation, which is looking at how we can address excessive early exit charges and how the transfer process can be made quicker and smoother.

8. I’ve been approached about a good pension investment deal but I am not sure it is legitimate, what

should I do?

If you are worried about an ‘offer’ you have seen or if you are concerned that you might be being scammed, please contact the FCA on 0800 111 6768 or, if you’ve been affected by scams, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or call The Pensions Advisory Service on 0300 123 1047 and take the time to check the “how to avoid scams” page on www. pensionwise.gov.uk.

We are doing everything we can to protect people from scams. We’ve worked with the FCA to launch the ScamSmart (www.scamsmart.fca.org.uk) campaign to raise awareness and made it illegal for people to pass themselves off as the official government Pension Wise service.

The important thing to remember is that if an offer sounds too good to be true, or they are pretending to be from the Government, don’t give your details and report them to the FCA on 0800 111 6768.

9. What else is government doing?

We know that the job is not finished, that’s why we’re expanding the Pension Wise service, extending the freedoms to another 5 million people by removing tax restrictions preventing people from selling their annuity and also ensuring that those who want to access their money can do so without facing unnecessary barriers. We have, and will, continue to build on the reforms ensuring the system in place works for the people who need it.

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OUT AND ABOUT Tuesday 28 Jun - Sat 3 Sep

Tuesday 24 - Sat 28 May The Sound of Music 21st-24th April, 2016 Spring Homes & Garden Fair Contact: Noelle Walsh or Mary Hillman on 01367 860017 or email enquiry@ukgrandsales.co.uk To book tickets phone; £9 on door 01367 860017 Sale open 9.30am- 5.00pm Thurs and Fri Sat till 5:30pm); 9.30am-4.30pm on Sun Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe, near Cheltenham, Glos GL54 5JD

Monday 25 - Sat 30 April Let It Be Travel back to the magical sixties when all you needed was love, and a little help from your friends!

Seen by over one million people worldwide, Let It Be has established itself as one of the West End’s most popular shows

FORTHCOMING ATTRACTIONS

PINOCCHIO

£18.00* & £17.00* (senior disc) £13.00* (child) FRI 1 APRIL 7.30

THUR 28 APRIL 7.30

TAP FACTORY

£23.00* & £22.00* (disc)

THE SIMON AND GARFUNKEL STORY

FRI 29 APRIL 7.30 SHOWADDYWADDY LIVE £20.00*

SAT 9 APRIL 7.30

THUR 26-FRI 27 MAY 7.30

£19.00* & £18.00* (disc)

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

£16.00* & £14.50 (disc) £54.00* (family) THUR 14 APRIL 7.30

TALON The Best of the Eagles £21.00*

PASHA IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU £24.50*

WED 22 JUNE 1 & 4 THUR 23 JUNE 10 & 1

PEPPA PIGS SURPRISE £17* & £15* (disc) £60 (family)

*inclusive of booking fee £1 per ticket up to a maximum of £4

Online booking www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Birmingham Hippodrome Hurst Street, Southside, Birmingham, B5 4TB Box Office: 0844 338 5000

1 May 2016 UB40 Featuring Ali Campbell, Astro and Mickey LABOUR OF LOVE I & II TOUR UB40 are making a triumphant return back to Brum, bringing their 2016 tour to the Barclaycard Arena on 1st May. Since reforming in 2013, the trio of Ali Campbell, Astro and Mickey have remained at the top of their game, with highlights including their 2014 World tour, a huge show in Las Vegas, and critical acclaim for their new material in 2014’s ‘Silhouette’.

Now embarking upon this huge UK Tour, the three-piece’s step up to even larger venues is a testament to the longevity of their songs, as well as UB40’s status as Britain’s most successful Reggae band of all time, a true music pioneer since 1979.

Box Office 01527 65203

FRI 30 MARCH 7.30

and continues to delight audiences across the globe, having recently performed to audiences in Germany, Japan, Moscow, and France.

Barclaycard Arena, Birmingham Ticket Hotline 0844 33 88 222

Tuesday 24 - Sat 28 May The Sound of Music The true story of the world-famous singing family.

One of the greatest musicals of all time returns to the stage in a magnificent new production to enchant and enthral the young and the young at heart.

Birmingham Hippodrome Hurst Street, Southside, Birmingham, B5 4TB Box Office: 0844 338 5000

3 June 2016 Bill Bailey LIMBOLAND The gap between how we imagine our lives to be and how they really are is the subject of Bill’s show LIMBOLAND. With his trademark intelligence and sharp wit, he tells tales of finding himself in this halfway place. From his countless global travels, he recounts the hilarious saga of a disastrous family trip to Norway to see the Northern Lights. He rails against a world that doesn’t match up to our expectations and contemplates the true nature of happiness. And no Bill Bailey show would be complete without music, so we have Bill’s version of the protest song, a heart-rending country and western ballad played on a Bible, and a fabulously downbeat version of Happy Birthday.

Following a sellout tour of Australasia which had the critics raving, Bill will bring LIMBOLAND back to the UK at the end of 2015 arriving in Birmingham next June! Make sure you snap 25

OUT AND ABOUT 25 June 2016 - 26 June 2016 Tewkesbury Food & Drink Festival

* Saturday 10am - 6pm Sunday 11am - 6pm Your chance to sample a wide range of local produce, from cakes and biscuits to fruit and veg. Not forgetting a number of ales, ciders and wines from local breweries. All in the beautiful gardens of the impressive Tewkesbury Abbey.

Church Street, Tewkesbury Abbey, Vicars Gardens, Tewkesbury, Glos, GL20 5RZ 01684 850959

up your tickets for what is set to be a side-splitting evening of comedy!

Barclaycard Arena, Birmingham Ticket Hotline 0844 33 88 222 11 June, 9 July, 13 Aug, 3 Sept, 17 Sept 2016

GWR Mid- Summer Murder Mystery Evening and The Cheltenham Fryer GWR invites you to this mysterious train ride. The train will depart from Toddington Station at 7pm and a thrilling mystery will enfold around you. A traditional steam train and the charming cotswold countryside, a perfect plot for a murder mystery!

Also, it is The Cheltenham Fryer, enjoy your fish and chips delivered to your reserved seats by the GWR train stewards.

The Railway Station, Toddington, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 5DT 01242 621405

Tuesday 28 Jun - Sat 3 Sep Mamma Mia!

The world’s sunniest and most exhilarating smash-hit musical.

Join the ultimate feel-good party at Mamma Mia!, the world’s sunniest and most exhilarating smash-hit musical.

Set on a Greek island paradise, a story of love, friendship and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA. Birmingham Hippodrome Hurst Street, Southside, Birmingham, B5 4TB Box Office: 0844 338 5000

8-10 July Mostly Jazz Funk & Soul Festival

The annual Mostly Jazz Funk & Soul Festival takes place each July in the idyllic setting of Moseley Park.

Mostly Jazz Funk & soul is well known for bringing some of the best artists from the Jazz, Funk & Soul world to Birmingham.

CARERS NEEDED

Join the Bluebird Care Team WE ARE CURRENTLY RECRUITING FOR CARERS ....

To work with Bluebird Care it is essential that you have a genuine care for others, good communication skills and the ability to understand what each of the roles entails. Care experience is useful but not always necessary as we provide full training.

Working for Bluebird Care means you will be part of one of the nation’s leading providers of homecare. We value our staff and see them as the key to success for our business. We believe that the way to deliver the best customer service is to have a great team of staff.

Team members are supported from the beginning to ensure they are able to deliver the very best quality of care to all our customers. At Bluebird Care you will receive continued support and award winning training throughout your career to continually develop your skills and knowledge.

Having access to transport and flexible availability is also advantageous. We offer excellent rates, flexibility, training and all the support you need to fulfil your role.

CALL NOW FOR FURTHER DETAILS. Bluebird Care (Gloucester) Suite 4 Westgate House, The Island, Gloucester GL1 2RU Telephone: 01452 414952

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Bluebird Care (Stroud) 3b Nelson Street, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 2HL Telephone: 01453 757 937

www.bluebirdcare.co.uk www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

9th and 10th July 2016 Tewkesbury Medieval Festival Tewkesbury Medieval Festival has been the high spot of Tewkesbury’s summer since 1984. It is now widely regarded as the largest free medieval gathering of its kind in Europe, and attracts re-enactors, traders and entertainers, and visitors from all over the world.

Its central attraction is a re-enactment of the Battle of Tewkesbury, on part of the site of the original 1471 battlefield. Many of the participants including wives and children live as a medieval army in authentic medieval encampments for the whole weekend.

The event features a wide range of period entertainment, including music, dance and drama as well as a collection of fascinating characters from the past. These may include barber surgeons, preachers and even the odd dragon keeper. There is a children’s activity area, with period based arts and craft sessions, and an exhibition tent with displays from organisations specialising in different aspects of history.

Our busy and colourful medieval market has everything from a suit of armour or a fabulous gown to a pot of herbs or bag of sweets on sale. A wide range of caters supply high quality food and drink, including ale specially brewed for the occasion.

The town centre is bustling with associated events and the streets are decorated with dozens of authentic medieval banners for the festival period.

Best of all, despite its size and popularity, entry to Tewkesbury Medieval Festival is free, and its hard working volunteer directors are determined to keep it that way.

There is however a small charge for parking to help meet our considerable costs.

Monday 10 - Sat 22 Oct 15 - 24 July Birmingham International Jazz & Blues Festival The Birmingham International Jazz & Blues Festival will once again bring top drawer players from across the world to Birmingham for a series of (mostly) free gigs taking place at restaurants, bars, public spaces, museums.

The festival boasts a truly international flavour, with acts from Lithuania, the USA, Canada, Argentina, France, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands and Belgium joining an array of homegrown musicians.

Monday 10 - Sat 22 Oct Blood Brothers “Exhilarating... one of the best musicals ever written” Sunday Times Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences.

Birmingham Hippodrome Hurst Street, Southside, Birmingham, B5 4TB Box Office: 0844 338 5000

BOX OFFICE: 01242 572573 BOOK ONLINE: everymantheatre.org.uk A fully restored Victorian theatre, offering the best in live entertainment. For a complete list of events visit everymantheatre.org.uk.

Book a backstage tour of our historic, Frank Matcham designed theatre along with your tickets by calling Sally-ann Rhodes on 01242 695574, or email sally-ann.rhodes@everymantheatre.org.uk.

Mon 25 - Sat 30 April

Starring Robert Daws, Amy Robbins, Robert Duncan, Susan Penhaligon, Steven Pinder, Lucy Dixon and Ben Nealon

Highlights of the new season include...

THE MERRY WIVES Tue 19 - Sat 23 April

Presented by Northern Broadsides

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THE FATHER

Mon 9 - Sat 14 May Starring Kenneth Cranham

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Tomatoes, Prostate Health and the Mediterranean Diet The Mediterranean diet is often associated with healthy living. Research suggests that the humble tomato is a key constituent of this diet and may play a significant role in human health, especially of the prostate.

The belief that tomatoes have health benefits can be traced back to South American Indians, ideas that were brought to Europe by Columbus in the 15th century. Tomatoes were also thought to be aphrodisiacs, sometimes being referred to as Pommes d’Amour or “love apples”.

The key ingredient of tomatoes is lycopene, one of the world’s most powerful, naturally occurring antioxidants.

Responsible for tomatoes’ distinctive red colour, it is a member of a large family of coloured compounds called “carotenoids” that are found throughout the natural world.

Humans possess no mechanism to make carotenoids, instead we accumulate them from our diet. Some, such as betacarotene, are easily accumulated whereas others are much less easily absorbed.

Our bodies are hardly able to take up lycopene from raw tomatoes and need the fruit to be cooked or processed prior to eating. Alternatively, “bioavailable” lycopene supplements are becoming increasingly popular.

Lycopene is sometimes presented in the National media as a panacea, a miraclefood that cures almost everything. Whilst many claims are exaggerated, there

is a large and credible research base that reports lycopene health benefits, particularly in relation to prostate cancer, heart disease, breast cancer and skin health.

The most extensive research has been conducted in the area of prostate cancer.

Lycopene is known to accumulate in the prostate gland and this has driven scientists to try to investigate its impact on the disease.

Some of this research has shown not only a positive association between high lycopene intake and a reduced risk of prostate cancer, but also benefits for those who already have the disease.

Professor Ed Giovannucci from Harvard Medical School has been following the progression of 50,000 men since 1986, investigating the relationship between prostate cancer and lycopene consumption. In his latest 2014 report he notes: ‘Dietary intake of lycopene was associated with reduced risk of prostate cancer, especially lethal prostate cancer’.

A smaller trial at King’s College Hospital, London concluded: ‘Our clinical study lends weight to the probability that dietary supplementation from lycopene slows disease progression in men with prostate cancer.’

Although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, many researchers think that lycopene’s antioxidant properties help to protect the body’s DNA from damaging free radicals. Others believe that lycopene improves cell-to-cell communication, reducing the risk of the uninhibited growth seen in cancer cells.

In all likelihood, several mechanisms are at work.

Every time a damaging free radical is removed by a lycopene molecule, the antioxidant becomes “spent” – the lycopene sacrifices itself to protect the body’s DNA. However, research has shown that the presence of plenty of vitamin C allows the “spent” lycopene molecules to be reactivated, rejuvenating them and preparing them to quench another poisonous free radical.

Staying Informed Professor George Truscott and two internationally renowned colleagues formed George & Partners back in 2000. The company provides readable, up-todate, scientifically robust information about lycopene research, particularly that related to prostate cancer, breast cancer, heart disease and skin health. The company also develops food supplements based on the latest research.

To sign up for a free newsletter, please call 08000 234 235 or visit www.lycoplus.co.uk.

Natural Lycopene Supplement Each Lycoplus EXTRA one-a-day capsule contains 15mg of natural Lycopene plus 60mg of vitamin C which reactivates “spent” Lycopene, enhancing and prolonging the effect of the supplement.

One box of 30 capsules (one month’s supply)

£17.95

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£30.90

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4 boxes for

£55.80

All prices include free UK postage & packing

To order call Freephone 08000 234 235 or visit www.lycoplus.co.uk

George & Partners Limited, Keele University Science Park, Staffordshire ST5 5NL 28

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HEALTH

Learning about Dementia Each person experiences dementia differently so it’s helpful to sort the condition into stages to help detect the symptoms earlier. This will let you know whether you need to look for care and support for a loved one. Dementia is a progressive illness affecting a person’s mental capacity, their memory and communication will gradually decline and will require support to carry out daily living routines.

Stages of Dementia Early stage The early stages of dementia are very minor changes in a person’s behaviour and can often be mistaken for normal ageing attributes. Loss of memory for most recent events is an early sign that someone may have dementia. Be on the lookout for these signs: • The person becomes slower at understanding new ideas • They repeat themselves • They lose interest in other people and activities • They blame others for taking their misplaced stuff • They’re forgetful about recent events or conversations • They find it hard to make decisions • They’re unwilling to try out new things In these situations it’s tempting to support them to help them cope, but in order to retain their independence and self-esteem, they should have the chance to do activities for themselves, with a little support if necessary They’re likely to become agitated and distressed in this condition, so be ready to provide emotional support and reassurance to boost their confidence.

Middle stage As dementia progresses, the changes in the person become more noticeable. They need support to help manage their daily living, with frequent reminders to eat, use the toilet, wash and dress. Being forgetful of people’s names and repeating the same phrase several times are signs of decline in their memory.

During the Middle stage they may lose their confidence and become clingy.

You may also notice some other signs, be careful of: •

•

Confusion about where they are and becoming lost after walking off Waking up at night because they’re mixing up night and day

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• Putting themselves and others at risk - by forgetting to light the gas on the cooker for example • Hallucinations and difficulty in perceiving events Late stage During this time, they’ll be totally dependent on others to help care for them. Their loss of memory will become paramount, being unable to recognise objects, surroundings and their closest friends and family members.

You’ll notice that they’ll become increasingly frail at this point, showing difficulty in walking and eventually they’ll be confined to a bed or wheelchair.

Other symptoms are: • Difficulty in eating and swallowing • Considerable difference in weight, some people may lose weight and others may eat too much • Loss of their bladder control and sometimes their bowels • Loss of speech, repeating a few words or crying out from time to time Support to stay in your own home If you want to live as independently as possible, you may need support to stay in your own home. The health and social care trust in your area can provide services to help you.

Health and social care assessments A range of support is available. For example, you might need help with cleaning, or you may find it useful if you had a bath rail fitted. You may be entitled to financial help to maintain your own home.

To find out what sort of help you could get, your local trust will assess your health and social care needs. It is important to tell the health and social care trust what will make your everyday life easier.

You may also be entitled to ‘direct payments’. These are trust payments available for anyone who has been assessed as needing social care, and who would like to buy services instead of receiving the trust’s services. For example, direct payments could be used to pay a home help.

Care in your own home Care in your own home is offered to people who require help with personal care like washing or dressing, or help with other daily domestic tasks such as cooking and cleaning, or help in managing finances.

Direct payments - arranging your own care and services Direct payments are local Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust payments for people who have been assessed as needing help from social services, and who would like to arrange and pay for their own care and support services instead of receiving them directly from the local trust.

A person must be able to give their consent to receiving direct payments and be able to manage them even if they need help to do this on a day-to-day basis.

Who is eligible?

If you already receive social services Your local trust is obliged to offer you the option of direct payments in place of the services you currently receive. There are some limited circumstances where you are not given this choice and your local trust will be able to tell you about these.

If you’re not receiving social services To get direct payments you’ll need to contact your local trust to ask them to assess your needs. Direct payments are normally available if you: • have a disability and are aged 16 or over • are a carer aged 16 or over, including people with parental responsibility for a child with disabilities • are an older person How much do you get?

The amount you receive will depend on the assessment your local trust makes of your needs.

How it’s paid Direct payments are made directly into your bank, building society, Post Office or National Savings’ account. If you need someone who cares for you to collect your money, or you are registered blind, payment can be made by sending a cheque which can be cashed at the Post Office.

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CARE

Live-In Care Keeps Older People In The Community Many frail and older customers’ face delays in being discharged from hospitals due to the lack of immediately available care in the community. The number of district nurses has fallen in England alone as a result of funding cuts. Live-in care not only reduces the risk of needing hospital treatment but, crucially, it allows individuals to return home to recuperate as quickly and as safely as is possible, with the comfort of having a carer available around the clock. The medical profession widely acknowledge that recovery within the home, if circumstances allow, is more beneficial for a patient, and live-in care grants an older person the freedom to choose that option.

Britain’s older population is set to increase dramatically, with the number of over 65’s increasing by 51% by 2030. Public services are already feeling the pressure and care homes are over-crowded and under-staffed as it is. With the impending influx of those needing an extra hand looming large, alternatives to residential care need to be considered, live-in care being one such solution.

Nearly half a million older people are hidden away in care homes, out of sight and out of mind. Not only damaging for those kept from their loved ones but we also suffer as a whole community, missing out on the invaluable voice of experience that our older generation provide. Caring for older people within their own home allows them to retain as much independence as possible as well as to continue being part of their muchloved communities.

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The NHS is already straining under pressure caused by an increase in older patients, with age related ailments such as dementia and arthritis being among the most common reasons for hospitalisation. Providing the older generation with adequate care that can handle these conditions by staff who receive appropriate training could easily prevent many hospital admissions.

Care homes are struggling as it is with tight budgets and often specialist training is over-looked causing quality of care to suffer as a result. Live-in care professionals, such as those provided

by Bluebird Care, are hand-picked for each unique placement and are given training tailored to meet the specific requirements of the client. With just the one customer to care for, the carer is able to devote more time to carry out the basic tasks that are so often forgotten or overlooked in residential care homes.

When you need continuous care, you may not want the added stress of having to leave familiar surroundings.

Bluebird Care gives you the option of high quality care without moving to a care home. Our live in care service offers the reassurance of 24 hour care and support in the comfort of your own home.

We never take a one-size-fits-all approach to care, our customers’ unique needs are considered every step of the way, meaning you stay in control of your care and support at all times.

A member of our team will ask what is important about the way you live your life so we can provide the care you want, the way you want it.

Choosing Bluebird Care means: • No need to move to a care home •

A personal service where your unique needs are considered every step of the way, available as and when you need it - day or night

• Fully trained, compassionate staff who respect your home and your privacy • A flexible service, where every day can be different

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trusted and dedicated live-in carer allows the person to pursue interests with the comforting knowledge that there is someone on standby should they need a little extra help, giving the person the peace of mind to thoroughly enjoy their twilight years.

• A wide range of care and support– personal care, housework, social activities – you choose • A proper introduction to make sure we have found the right person for you

As a nationwide provider, Bluebird Care work to accredited training and induction standards and are able to provide full support and supervision in person with the management team on hand to oversee any issues and to offer a fully supported care service. Bluebird Care completes all the necessary employment checks, such as with the police or criminal records authorities and care worker references. Each care worker receives on-going training and support while they are looking after you at home

• Regular follow up from a Bluebird Care manager to check you are happy with our service Retaining pets and possessions and continuing with everyday activities and hobbies such as meeting up with friends, attending church and gardening provides a quality of life they would struggle to match in a residential home where regulations render many of these activities unfeasible. The residents in care homes often have to rely on relatives visiting to maintain a social life and with today’s pressures on many working families these visits can be few and far between. Having a

Live in care - keeping your familiar friends, family and belongings around you.

No upheaval. No stress. No trouble.

CARE VISITS AT HOME Good Old Fashioned Service Bluebird Care (Gloucester) Suite 4 Westgate House, The Island, Gloucester GL1 2RU Telephone: 01452 414952

Bluebird Care (Stroud) 3b Nelson Street, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 2HL Telephone: 01453 757 937

What we offer We offer everything from personal care to shopping, cleaning or social visits.

In fact everything you need to stay in the comfort of your own home.

Alternative Bluebird Care offers a realistic cost effective alternative to residential care.

With familiar friends, relatives and possessions around, Bluebird Care ‘just happens’.

Our staff Our staff are caring, trained to give medication and police checked.

www.bluebirdcare.co.uk www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

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