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SPRING/SUMMER EDITION

Get away more this year with Just Go Holidays

Luxury Lakeside Lodges at Highfields Country Retreat

Robert Lindsay

Talks about the Northwest Premiere of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels...

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s

Dr Rahul Doshi's Five simple steps to beautiful teeth WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

e

Enjoy independence and peace of mind in a welcoming community Sheltered housing is the ideal choice if you want to combine privacy and independence with security and peace of mind.

Thrive Homes has eight sheltered schemes in and around Abbots Langley, Croxley Green, Mill End, South Oxhey and Rickmansworth.

Safe as houses Living in sheltered housing offers you a safe, secure environment with access to support to maintain your independence, giving you and your family peace of mind.

Independence to live your life Our schemes give you the freedom to be as independent and private as you like, while still being able to rest assured that help and support are always on hand when needed. Many people in need of minimal support move into sheltered housing with the reassuring knowledge that, if they or their partner need a higher level of care or support in the future, this can usually be arranged.

We offer: • a dedicated Retirement Housing Assistant • 24-hour emergency call system • out-of-hours emergency assistance • advice & information • access to ‘floating’ support

If you are 55 or over and considering such a move, please contact us or visit one of our schemes.

Ring freephone 0800 917 6077 to discuss your needs.

• personal support plan • social activities • communal lounge • a laundry or guest room (in some schemes).

A friendly welcome You can be sure of a warm welcome and a friendly community spirit in all our sheltered schemes. We understand you may need a range of support to cater for your individual and changing needs.

Our schemes also have communal lounge areas and offer a range of activities which you are welcome to join or help run whenever you wish.

Adapting your home to meet your needs We also deal with applications for aids and adaptations to tenants’ homes so you can continue to live independently and safely in your own home.

Hundreds of people have had such changes made to their homes over the last five years. Thrive can also help you downsize or provide you with housing options advice.

A thriving community Thrive Homes is making a difference to thousands of individuals and families. We have declared 2013-2014 our Year of Ambition to inspire staff, residents and community partners to think bigger and better.

Elspeth Mackenzie, Chief Executive

Thrive Homes provides value for money, high quality homes and excellent services to help develop communities where people will enjoy living.

Offering a Lifeline with help at the touch of a button Would you or someone you know benefit from a Lifeline alarm? If so, we can help.

The Lifeline is an easy-to-use, telephone-linked alarm button that you can wear or carry around your neck as a pendant and it offers peace of mind for all the family.

Using a Lifeline, means you can get the emergency help you need at the touch of a button or via the unit that is installed next to your telephone.

Once you are in contact with the trained control centre staff, they will either contact your nominated key holders, your GP or the emergency services if you need urgent medical help.

Lifeline alarm offers the ideal solution if you live on your own and you want reassurance that you can call help quickly if you need it.

Anyone can rent a Lifeline or access support through us – you do not have to be a Thrive Homes resident.

To find out more, call 0800 917 6077 or find our leaflet at www.thrivehomes. org.uk/publications

What our customers say “After having a nasty fall, having the lifeline has given me and my family peace of mind, knowing I can get help if I have any problems in the future. I feel more secure knowing someone is always at the other end of the line.”

Margaret Jones, lifeline customer “This place is fantastic. When you live on your own, you feel so much safer knowing you can just pull the cord to call help when you need it.

The staff are excellent and there is a good community spirit. It really is magic – I wouldn’t move from here for a million dollars.”

Anita Batterbee, sheltered housing resident

Thrive Homes, Building 3, Hatters Lane, Watford WD18 8YG 0800 917 6077 or 020 8428 4428 enquiries@thrivehomes.org.uk www.thrivehomes.org.uk

CONTENTS

8-9

20-21

inside...

18-19

6-7

The Benefits of Forward Planning ...

Your local legal experts

8-9

Portugal ...

Two of the most traditional and interesting regions of the country

14-15

10-12 Out and About ...

Explore, experience, enjoy

24-25 Your Health in Good Hands...

With Rivers Hospital.

14-15 Robert Lindsay...

Talks about the Northwest Premier of

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

McGrath Media.

Unit 6 | Moses Gate Workshops Gladys Street | Bolton | BL3 2QG. T: (01204) 796 494 | F: (01204) 791594

18-19 In Search of the Perfect Curry ...

Recipes from Rick Stein

e: mcgrathadmin@btconnect.com

20-21 How Colours Change a Room ...

Make your home look brand new.

FIRSTDENT

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Discover the Marston Vale Line!

Bedford - Bletchley by rail, the scenic route The Marston Vale Line between Bedford and Bletchley offers an opportunity to view some beautiful countryside at your leisure and there is plenty of history along the way too! Trains run hourly Monday - Saturday. New Customer Information Screens at all stations providing real-time information on train departures.

In Bedford take a walk along the River Great Ouse or discover its wide range of shops and also fantastic markets most days of the week. The cultural quarter is within easy reach of both Bedford Stations including the John Bunyan Museum, the Higgins and the Panacea Museum. The John Bunyan Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday to 1st November 2014. Free entry! Groups are welcome throughout the open and closed season by prior arrangement, tours can be daytime or evening and a range of refreshments can be organised. The Higgins Bedford is open again after an extensive refurbishment! Explore the history of Bedford and find out about its famous residents! Free entry! Discover the amazing story of Bedford's own secret society at the Panacea Museum. Free entry!

Millbrook is the gateway to the spectacular Millenium County Park at the heart of the Forest of Marston Vale. It’s a pleasant walk or cycle ride on surfaced paths to the Forest Centre with its superb shop and restaurant. Cycles can be hired from here to explore the Forest or the nearby Route 51 of the National Cycle Network.

The Marston Vale Line’s latest attraction, the Ridgmont Station Heritage Centre is now open! Enjoy afternoon tea in the original Ladies Waiting Room, see the Booking Office as it used to be when steam trains were the order of the day and collect information on attractions in the local area from the Tourist Information Point and stock up on presents in the Gift Shop! Walks available to Lidlington & Millbrook stations along the Greensand Ridge Walk. Tea room open open Tues-Sun 9am - 5pm (last orders 4.30pm), Heritage Centre open Tues - Sat 10am - 4pm (last entry 3.30pm).

Groups welcome all year around by prior arrangement.

Aspley Guise is the home of HULA Animal Rescue, just a few minutes walk from the railway station, open six days a week. There are a number of resident animals such as pigs, cows and sheep, in addition to pets waiting for new homes. Light refreshments on sale. Meals available at the Anchor in the village centre.

Woburn Sands is an attractive town with two large garden centres a short walk from the station. New Costa Coffee open at the station!

The Grand Union Canal passes through Fenny Stratford, also the home of MK Dons FC. Also the Tecton Gallery - a new independent, non-profit, contemporary art gallery showcasing original work by local artists just a few minutes walk from the station. Free entry! Bletchley is a real enigma, but with Bletchley Park on the doorstep of the station you will easily break the code! Enjoy shopping at Bletchley Town Centre with its tree lined streets and huge diversity of shops, cafés and restaurants, with Bletchley Market on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Change trains at Bletchley for the short journey to the new city of Milton Keynes where there is a wealth of shops and attractions, including some impressive urban park lands and sculptures. Also change at Bletchley for the short journey to Leighton Buzzard, a traditional market town with a large number of independent shops.

The Line has an exciting programme of events and activities throughout the year. Be the first to receive details by signing up to our FREE e-bulletin or postal bulletin; contact us to sign up!

For further information please contact: Stephen Sleight Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity The Old School, Cardington, Bedford MK44 3SX. 01234 832645 E-mail stephens@bedsrcc.org.uk Visit our award winning website: www.marstonvalecommunityrail.org.uk

e Forest Centr Offer!

50% discount for Bedfords hire Concessiona ry Travel Pass H olders on off-peak journeys!

GroupS ave Ticket

Up to 4 ad price o ults for the f 2 (off pe plus up to 4 ch ak) ildre for only £1 eac n h Under 5s go fr . ee!

BEDFORD BEDFORD St Johns

Park Offer!

Bletchleyyfor Marston Vale

coffee & 10% off tea, ke a piece of ca ril to

m 1st Ap Offer valid fro r 2014 on be 30th Septem t a valid ticke of n tio produc brook ill M or y tb for Stewar discounted stations. One purchase per person.

Senior Saver

2 for 1 entr ssengers!

Line Pa rg.uk hleypark.o w w w .bletc 04 04 01908 64 lid ion of a va On product . et tick until 31st Offer valid 2014. er b Decem MILTON KEYNES Central

Find us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/marstonvalecrp Follow us @marstonvalecrp Ridgmont Station Tea Room 01525 287120 Ridgmont Station Heritage Centre 01525 287121

BLETCHLEY LEIGHTON BUZZARD LONDON

7

LEGAL

Wills - The benefits of forward planning Planning for life after you’ve gone may seem difficult, however it is a sensible way of securing the future for your loved ones.

No matter how big or how small, whether they be your life savings, a family heirloom or your pet pooch, it is important that your assets are passed on and shared exactly as you would wish them to be.

Many people believe that if they don’t make a Will, their money and possessions will automatically pass to their partners or their children but this is not always the case. Failure to make a Will results in the estate being distributed in accordance with a fixed set of rules. This may result in some relatives benefitting to a greater extent than you would wish – others may not benefit to the extent that you would wish and there is no opportunity to make specific gifts or benefit friends or charities.

6

Where there’s a Will, there’s a way Making a Will provides you with flexibility, it places the control into your hands so you can decide exactly how you want your assets to be divided. Families and relationships are complicated and a Will can reflect that.

There are many options available to you when creating a Will, all of which will benefit you and your loved ones.

Trusts Many people take the opportunity of using their Will to create a trust in order to protect their family assets or to make provisions for family members such as grandchildren.

A trust is a legal arrangement in which ‘trustees’ are appointed and become legally responsible for holding your asset for a beneficiary. A beneficiary is the person who will receive the benefit from the asset. Within your Will you can name the trustees and any beneficiaries, as well as the asset and the terms of the trust. The asset held on trust could be money, property or chattels such as jewellery, antiques or paintings and a trustee must

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ensure that it is dealt with appropriately and according to any instructions you have set out.

can detail other arrangements including music, flowers and your final resting place.

Taxes

The person in charge of carrying out your wishes and administering your estate is known as the executor.

Often this will be your next of kin but you may wish to name somebody else and if your Will is complicated you may wish to appoint a professional – all of which you can state in your Will.

As Benjamin Franklin once said, ‘in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes’ and whilst taxes are certain in life, they are also certain in death.

Your estate will be liable to inheritance tax but planning now and creating a Will, allows you to consider all of the reliefs and exemptions available to you such as trusts or charitable gifts.

Legacies Often upon a person’s death, personal property such as paintings, jewellery or ornaments will be collected and sold but a Will gives you an opportunity to stop this from occurring. It is possible in a Will to leave such ‘legacies’ to those who you consider would appreciate them such as your favourite niece, nephew or grandchild.

Final Wishes Making a Will is as much about organising your finances as it is about setting out your final wishes. Your Will can specify whether you wish for a burial or cremation and

The future can be frightening but by taking responsibility and making arrangements for the inevitable, you can rest assured that your loved ones will be spared the complexities and difficulties that can arise from someone passing on. By spending a little time planning and creating a Will, you could save your family from a great deal of stress at what will be a difficult time.

QualitySolicitors Bretherton Law would be pleased to guide and advise you about a new will or updating an existing will. We support the Barnardo's will scheme.

Please contact Bruce Kent on 01727 869293 or brucekent@brethertonlaw.co.uk for further details.

For other services provided by the firm please see details below.

Our services include: • Family law and mediation

What you can expect

• Housing and property • Criminal law • Mental health and capacity • Employment law • Wills and probate • Business services

Changing the way you see lawyers.

01727 869293

QualitySolicitors Bretherton Law

For more information please contact us on info@brethertonlaw.co.uk qualitysolicitors.com/brethertonlaw First Floor, Alban Row, 27-31 Verulam Road, St Albans, AL3 4DG

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

7

50 Plus Travel

sponsored by

By Noel Josephides, Managing Director of Sunvil www.sunvil.co.uk

to a considerable degree upon this wonderful natural product. Portugal is the largest cork exporter in the world.

NASA uses Alentejo cork to insulate the cones of its space capsules and to protect them from heat damage on reentry to the earth’s atmosphere. And cork is not only for wine bottles – you can buy cork jewellery, cork umbrellas, cork i-Pad covers - in fact, just about anything and everything can these days be manufactured from cork.

The Alentejo and the Centro Region of Portugal Visitors to Portugal who fly into Lisbon Airport tend either to head south to the Algarve or north to Estoril, Cascais, the city of Porto and the Douro Region.

In doing so, they inadvertently miss out on two of the most traditional and interesting regions of the country. Both the Centro region - immediately north of Lisbon - and the Alentejo region - between Lisbon and the Algarve - are areas that tend to be driven through quickly yet, together, they make up half of Portugal, and both deserve to be visited in their own right.

The Alentejo was known as the bread basket of Portugal and it boasts some of the country’s tastiest dishes. The countryside is made up of wide, sweeping plains interspersed with medieval hilltop villages topped by dramatic castles. In spring the region is awash with colour - the fields are full of flowers of red, yellow, white 8

Evora, just a 75-minute drive inland from Lisbon on uncrowded roads, is the capital of the Alentejo (which means below the Tejo, or Tagus, river).

It is steeped in history, yet really alive and buzzing courtesy of the university within its ancient walls. It was the seat of the Kings of Portugal in the 15th and 16th centuries and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety.

The Atlantic coastline, south of Lisbon, is like that of the Algarve 50 years ago and much of it is protected by law. Coastal villages like Porto Covo and Vila Nova de Milfontes are firm favourites yet have escaped mass development and still have great character; they are ideal for a lazy summer holiday and perhaps a little gentle coastal walking on a wellmarked pathway, the Rota Vicentina, if that appeals. The coast is a few degrees cooler than inland, often with a pleasant breeze in the height of summer. Beaches are many and seldom crowded, even in the peak of the season.

and purple or blue hues. The Alentejo produces 46% of Portugal’s excellent wine but has a mere 6% of its population. It is quiet, it is uncrowded and it is beautiful.

In the summer it’s very hot - in fact, the hottest place in Portugal. Around May/June, depending on the weather, they harvest the cork trees; this is the region of the cork oak tree and the economy of the Alentejo still depends

So why have so few people heard of this region? It’s a very rural area with some excellent accommodation of character but local politics has meant an initial lack of interest in tourism, making it a latecomer to the travel game. This very fact will stand it in good stead – it has been able to learn from mistakes made elsewhere.

The north of the Alentejo region is next-door to Centro, the central region of Portugal or, as I prefer to call it, the

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That permission can be refused because, within the ancient walls, the Dean wields as much power as the President of the Republic.

Needless to say, Coimbra is a must but there are also other interesting ancient cities to explore, like Aveiro on the coast and Viseu, the gateway to the Estrela National Park. Each area has its own local cuisine and specialities.

Some of the most famous and delicious Portuguese cheeses come from the Estrela region.

Heart of Portugal. This is an area that stretches from its Atlantic coastline, with long beaches stretching for miles, into a mountainous region with some historic fortified villages and castles along the border with Spain that defended Portugal from invasion in the Middle Ages. The most impressive are Almeida, Castelo Rodrigo, Monsanto, Sortelha, Piodao and Idanha-A-Velha.

These castles and villages conjure up images of knights in armour, of damsels in distress and heroic deeds.

Legends abound in this area which, in turn, was overrun by the Romans, Moors and Spanish. Tales are recounted of epic battles and ancient rituals, and religious festivals are still very much part of daily life. The Serra da Estrela national park is snow bound in winter and, in the summer, ideal for walks with breathtaking views across forested landscapes.

The capital of the area is Coimbra, recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. This is a thriving, vibrant city, with a population of

2.3 million, and it is the seat of the oldest university in Portugal, dating from 1290. Since then, it’s been at the centre of Portuguese intellectual life. A visit to the university is a must and the 18th century Baroque library is one of many priceless historical monuments. There are three exquisite gilded chambers housing 300,000 leather-bound texts behind imposing wooden doors, probably some 30 feet tall. The precious books in this library are safeguarded from insect damage by resident bats, which sleep behind the serried rows of ancient tomes by day and eat insects by night; the mahogany reading tables are covered in cloth overnight to protect them from bat excrement. I would visit Portugal simply to re-visit the library - it is so fascinating and so totally extravagant.

The university is nicknamed the ‘Little Vatican’ as it is protected by ancient charter and even the police have to request permission from the Dean before they enter the campus.

These two provinces, the Centro/ Heart of Portugal and the Alentejo, together make ideal fly-drive holiday combinations. There is some stunning accommodation, too, with two of my personal favourite hotels found in the adjacent regions. The Casa da Insua is a wonderful 18th century Baroque confection, located on the outskirts of Viseu in Centro, where you can try your hand at making cheese in the dairy if you wish, afterwards exploring an excellent in-house museum and art gallery. In the Alentejo, just outside Evora, is the Covento do Espinheiro, a historic monument once lived in by the Kings of Portugal - a superlative hotel that manages to be friendly while offering the best of cuisine and comfort. The manager’s tour of the hotel and a wine tasting in the former monastery’s water cistern is not to be missed.

The true character of Portugal lies very much within these two regions and yet so many of us simply drive through on our way south or north. I urge you to spend a little time exploring them; you’ll enjoy a relaxing and inspiring taste of the real Portugal.

Vist www.sunvil.co.uk for further information about holidays to this region or call 0208 568 4499.

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

OUT AND ABOUT ~ THEATRE 8 MAY

1 & 2 JUNE

A Night Of Dirty Dancing

Killer Queen

Chelmsford City Theatres, Fairfield Road, Chelmsford Essex CM1 1JG This fast-moving, slickly-choreographed theatrical treat features all the hits from one of the greatest movie soundtracks of all time.

Box Office: 01245 606505

Queen´s Theatre Hornchurch, Billet Lane, Hornchurch RM11 1QT Spectacular stage set up, stunning costumes and terrific special effects - just like Queen themselves! www.queens-theatre.co.uk

22 MAY

Hot Flush

6 JUNE

Chelmsford City Theatres, Fairfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1JG Share in the friendships, the secrets, the tears, the laughs and ups and downs of four ordinary women – and one man – living extraordinary lives.

Box Office: 01245 606505

Chelmsford City Theatres, Fairfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1JG ITV’s top comedy of all time, Rising Damp, comes to the stage in a brand-new production.

Box Office: 01245 606505

Rising Damp

16 - 21 JUNE

24 MAY

Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend SS0 7RA

SOUL LEGENDS Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend SS0 7RA This smash-hit, Stateside spectacular features more soul classics than any other production.

Call: 01702 351135 Sat 8th March, 7:30pm.

Standard £29.00 Concession £27.00

28 MAY

Fri 7th March, 7:30pm.

DREAMBOATS AND PETTICOATS

Mon 14th to Sat 19th April, 7:30pm.

Wed & Sat matinees, 2:30pm.

Standard £28.00 - £30.00 Concession £26.00 - £28.00

THE FUREYS & DAVEY ARTHUR

Wed 9th April, 2:30pm.

Sun 9th March, 7:30pm.

BILLY&WALLY’S

MEET THE AUTHOR: CHRIS TARRANT

BLESS ‘EM ALL Standard £13.00 Concession £11.00

Standard £18.00 Concession £17.00

THE DAY THE Hertford Theatre, The Wash, MUSIC DIED Hertford SG14 1PS One of our most popular veteran broadcasters, best known for presenting ITV's Who Wants GISELLE To Be A Millionaire for fifteen nail-biting years, comes to talk about his new book: Dad's PETERWar. ALLISS CALL 01992 531 500.

BUDDY HOLLY 55th ANNIVERSARY TOUR

All tickets £17.50

Tue 25th March, 7:30pm.

MOSCOW STATE BALLET

Standard £21.50 Concession £19.50

Thu 27th March, 7:30pm.

AN EVENING WITH THE ‘VOICE OF GOLF’ All Tickets £20.00

31 MAY

LITTLE HOWARD'S BIG SHOW FOR KIDS Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PS With interactive stand-up, live animation on stage and lots of jokes and songs this really is a show that all the family can enjoy!

CALL 01992 531 500.

Sat 3rd May, 7:00pm.

BIG NEW VARIETY SHOW All tickets £17.50

Fri 9th May, 7:30pm.

BILLY OCEAN All tickets £25.00* * plus £1.00 per ticket booking fee

Fri 30th May, 7:30pm.

VIENNA FESTIVAL BALLET

SWAN LAKE

Standard £22.00* Concession £18.00* * plus £1.00 per ticket booking fee

4 JULY

An Evening of Burlesque Queen's Theatre Hornchurch, Billet Lane, Hornchurch RM11 1QT Direct from London’s West End, tantalising yet tasteful, camp and colourful, this fascinating art form is brought to life for your delectation! www.queens-theatre.co.uk

23 JULY

TEA DANCE SUMMER BALL Bedford Corn Exchange St Paul's Square, Bedford MK40 1SL Dance to the live music from Robert Peel (back by popular demand) in the atmospheric setting of the Bedford Corn Exchange.

CALL: 01234 344813

1 JUNE

15 SEPTEMBER

THE SOUNDS OF THE GLENN MILLER ERA

PSYCHIC SALLY: ON THE ROAD 2014

Bedford Corn Exchange St Paul's Square, Bedford MK40 1SL Commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of D Day. CALL: 01234 344813

10

Inspired by the 7 smash hit multi-million selling albums of the same name, the West End sell out sensation Dreamboats and Petticoats features some of the greatest hit songs of the Rock ‘n’ Roll era.

Call: 01702 351135

Bedford Corn Exchange St Paul's Square, Bedford MK40 1SL International psychic and star of hit TV show Psychic Sally: On The Road, Sally Morgan returns with her phenomenal interactive stage show.

CALL: 01204 520661

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Retirement has so much to offer...

So why not make the most of it?

If you are wondering about how to get the most out of your retirement, and enjoy your leisure time to the full in the forthcoming years, you are not alone. Many retirees are faced with the question of ‘What are we going to do?’

Well, how about this? Your very own Luxury Lakeside Lodge at Highfields Country Retreat.

More and more people entering retirement are now looking for a new, exciting and different way of life - a lifestyle which enables you to enjoy every single day, relax and forget about the stresses and pressures of the outside world.

Whether you are looking for a beautiful, yet affordable, second home to escape to whenever you wish, or a secluded tranquil place where you can spend most of your time, Highfields Country Retreat has the perfect solution.

They offer beautiful Lodge Homes in stunning lakeside positions with excellent spacing, all of which are set within their private estate - some 190 acres of beautiful lakes, meadows and woodlands. It is a community of like-minded people in a safe and secure environment where peace, tranquillity and relaxation are paramount.

The Lodge Homes are very efficient to run, low maintenance and even the grounds are all taken care of by the park staff. All you have to do is sit back and relax – read a book, take in the views, perhaps a spot of fishing or enjoy a leisurely walk with the dog.

Sound good? Well what are you waiting for… why not get in touch and see if they can help you make the most of your retirement too?

We only came to look and became instantly hooked! The peaceful surroundings and the wildlife are wonderful. The people are very friendly and most welcoming. It is one of the best things we have ever done!!

To find out more, call: 01529 241185 or visit:

www.lincolnshirelodges.co.uk

OUT AND ABOUT

EXPLORE, EXPERIENCE ENJOY ...

Sun 11 May 2014 Old Harlow Craft and Produce Market at St John’s Arts & Recreation Centre

Sun 11 May 2014 Textile Fair 2014 at Warner Textile Archive

Sun 18 May 2014 Vintage Fair at Hedingham Castle at Hedingham Castle

Sat 24 May 2014 Broomfield Craft and Produce Market at THE BROOMFIELD CENTRE

Sat 24 May 2014 Murder Mystery Dinner at The County Hotel

Tue 27 - Sat 31 May 2014 29th Colchester Real Ale Festival & Cider Festival at Colchester Arts Centre

Tue 27 May 2014 Saffron Walden Emporium - Collectables, Crafts at Saffron Walden Town Hall

Thu 29 May 2014 Frinton Festival at St Mary’s Church

Sat 31 May 2014 Frinton Festival at All Saints Church

Sat 31 May 2014 Panfield Summer Fete at The Bell Inn Field

Sat 31 May - Sun 1 Jun 2014 The Cressing Temple Country Fair at Cressing Temple Barns

Wed 4 - Fri 6 Jun 2014 French Market at Saffron Walden Common

Sat 7 - Sun 8 Jun 2014 Chelmsford Mind Body Spirit Festival at Selex Marconi Social Club

Sun 8 Jun 2014 Old Harlow Craft and Produce Market at St John’s Arts & Recreation Centre

Sat 14 - Sun 15 Jun 2014 Air-Britain Vintage & Classic Aircraft Fly-In at North Weald Airfield

Sat 14 Jun 2014 Art Fair from Arcady Events at Assembly Rooms Dedham

Tue 17 Jun 2014 Saffron Walden Emporium - Collectables, Crafts at Saffron Walden Town Hall

Sat 21 Jun 2014 BRIGHTLINGSEA CARNIVAL at Brightlingsea

Sat 21 Jun - Sat 5 Jul 2014 Maldon Arts Festival at St Mary’s Church

Sat 28 - Sun 29 Jun 2014 Food & Drink Festival at Castle Park

MILTON KEYNES INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL 18 - 27 JULY 2014 ..

18 - 27 July

21 - 23 July

The lock shift songs by kaffe matthews

RAY LEE: CHORUS

Central Milton Keynes venue tbc Recline on 'sonic beds' and enjoy a unique experience created in this new commission.

18 - 19 July

iioptopie: fous de bassin (water fools)

Willen Lake.

A spectacular outdoor production with fire and pyrothechnics on Willen Lake.

18 - 21 July

CASUS: KNEE DEEP

The Spiegeltent MK15 ODS Exquisitely beautiful acrobatics and astonishing feats.

18 - 2O July

UNDER THE VAULTED SKY CREATED BY ROSEMARY LEE

12

Cathedral of Trees, Newlands Milton Keynes' magical Cathedral of Trees is the venue for this new dance performance by awardwinning choreographer Rosemary Lee.

Chorus is a giant sound and light installation by award-winning sonic artists Ray Lee. 23 - 24 July

puppet state theatre company: the man who planted trees

The Spiegeltent MK15 ODS Puppet State Theatre Company present The Man Who Planted Trees, adapted from the story by Jean Giono for ages 7+ 25 July, Doors 7.15pm

seth lakeman

The Spiegeltent MK15 ODS Celebrated folk singer-songwriter and virtuoso fiddler Seth Lakeman.

26th July, 7.45pm

THE PUPPINI SISTERS

The Spiegeltent MK15 ODS Think Andrews Sisters with added glamour.

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INTERVIEW: ROBERT LINDSAY

DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS Robert Lindsay had been out walking his dogs and taking the opportunity to learn his lines for his latest show.

The fact that it’s the musical version of the 1988 hit film Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, set to premier in Manchester before going into the West End, was exciting for the 63 year-old actor. But not because he was reprising the role Michael Caine took onscreen as the suave Riviera conman Lawrence Jameson whose life is suddenly disrupted by Steve Martin’s character, the anarchic Freddy Benson.

“I’ve never seen the film,” he admits, “but it’s a wonderful show. The script is incredibly funny and the score by Yazbek (award-winner David Yazbek) is amazing – the man’s a genius.”

The show did run for a time on Broadway where it won awards, “but it seemed to fade away,” adds Lindsay. “This is a totally different show, and there’s a fantastic buzz about it already. I think the plan long-term may be for it to go back to Broadway.”

All of this is a long way from the very first time the Great British Public became aware of young Robert Lindsay when he played a Cockney layabout in the ITV series Get Some In! However, it was when he headed up the Tooting Popular Front as likeable but inept urban guerrilla Wolfie Smith in the hit comedy TV series Citizen Smith that the public really noticed him.

This ran for three years, from 1977 to 1980, and established the actor firmly in viewers’ consciousness. He felt pretty comfortable in the role as he’d come from a council estate in Ilkeston, Derbyshire before graduating from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), and had admittedly leftwing views.

An early flexibility and desire to take on other, different roles – “as well as wanting to play posh people,” he quickly points out – steered him towards more serious productions.

He played Lysander in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Benedick in Much Ado About Nothing in the BBC’s

14

Shakespeare series, and then moved up to Manchester to play Edmund in a Granada TV version of King Lear alongside Sir Laurence Olivier.

He happily admits that his first love, though, is musicals and he famously played the role of Bill Snibson in the acclaimed 1984 London revival of Me and My Girl. This role not only won him an Olivier Award but, when it later transferred to Broadway, a Tony Award as well.

“I find musicals easier because you’ve always got the music, it’s familiar,” states Lindsay.

He has, however, also enjoyed plenty of film roles.

Interestingly, he was at the same place making a different film (Strike It Rich with Mollie Ringwald and Sir John Gielgud) where Dirty Rotten Scoundrels was being filmed.

“I met Steve Martin one day – we’d met previously when I’d been in the States and had dinner together – and he told me about the film he was making,” explains Lindsay. “He seemed to have some reservations about the script and I got the impression that they were adding to it quite a bit themselves.”

Television has proved a remarkable showcase for Lindsay’s talents over the years. Although he believes that he wanted to get away from his roots for a long time – “I lost my way

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The Generation Game with Bruce Forsyth – have three sons and he also has a daughter from his relationship with actress Diana Weston.

It’s plain he doesn’t like being away from his home and family. “But sometimes they have to understand that you have to be, you’re doing it for them,” he states.

For the most part, his children don’t like roles that take him away from them, or his being acknowledged as an actor rather than “just Dad” when he’s with them. “When I was in Hornblower and picking them up from school it was different. Normally, they don’t want me to walk with them and disown me, but suddenly I was cool!”

Ask about the highlights of his career and he swiftly points to the work with Alan Bleasdale and Me and My Girl. “I suppose Citizen Smith, The Entertainer at the Old Vic and Cyrano de Bergerac at the Haymarket were also special,” he adds.

He’s still regularly on TV and had just recorded Have I Got News For You as programme presenter. “You have to watch Mr Hislop and Mr Merton, though,” he says light-heartedly.

“They’re very quick but I think they like actors because they understand timing and not hogging the lines.”

“I find musicals easier because you’ve always got the music, it’s familiar,”

Is there any TV he’d like to do, like Downton Abbey? “No,” he states, “that’s not my bag.

“But I’ve just done a cameo role in Atlantis as the father of Icarus – that was good fun. It’s a very well made series and the boys there were great. My children were also very impressed!” * Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is at Manchester Opera House from February 12 to 22, 2014, in Aylesbury Waterside Theatre from February 26 to March 1 and then at the Savoy Theatre, London from March 10. To find out more go to www.scoundrelswestend.com

a bit in my 30s,” he says – he particularly enjoyed working with gritty Northern writer Alan Bleasdale. Lindsay was in his dark comedy serial G.B.H. (for which Lindsay won a BAFTA) as well as another Bleasdale play, Jake’s Progress with Julie Walters, and recalls both experiences with genuine affection.

He played another posh character when he took on the role of Captain Pellew in the long-running and very successful series of Hornblower with Ioan Gruffudd as the young midshipman of the title.

Was this largely sea-going adventure a fairly physical experience for Lindsay? “Not so much for me, but definitely for Ioan,” he laughs. “What was interesting was that it was the first time I had played a father character.”

His longest running role was also as a father: as dentist Ben Harper in the popular BBC sitcom My Family – this ran for 11 years and still surfaces on Sky channels. “Zoe (Wannamaker) and I had a great time making that,” he states.

Lindsay himself is very much a family man. He and second wife Rosemarie Ford – she was a dancer and a presenter on

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15

A SMILE

MAKEOVER

- YOUR BEST ACCESSORY Dr. Rahul Doshi ... of The Perfect Smile Studios is the pioneer of a proven technique called ‘Customised Smile Makeover’, so we talked to him to find out more and discover what makes him so different. Dr. Doshi’s innovative ‘Customised Smile Makeover’ has turned him into an international dental sensation. His unique cutting edge technique creates smiles to perfectly suit your particular face, jaw and mouth. He has also founded The Advanced Training Institute, where he shares his knowledge, and has now trained over 7000 dentists worldwide in the art of creating and designing new smiles. So, what is the Customised Smile Makeover? And can he make it work for you?

“Dr. Doshi specifically designed my perfect smile ... I never felt like I was “just another patient” and above all I trusted him and his team”. - Franchesca

Clinical Director

- Perfect Smile Studios and Advanced Training Institute

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- Premium Practice Dentistry

Director Regional Meetings

- British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

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Have you ever wondered how you might improve your confidence in smiling - be like those people who have straight, white teeth and love to show them off? Perhaps you are like many other people who constantly notice the dazzling Hollywood smiles of celebrities that ooze with confidence. Well now you too can get yourself a set of pearly whites that make you look amazing every time you smile. How?

The value of cosmetic dentistry is priceless 76% of people don’t feel confident to smile in a photograph 48% of people make judgements about people by the

look of their smile 77% of people think cosmetic dentistry helps psychologically 67% of people think it helps romantically

means no pain. No drilling also means no injections and hence no discomfort. This treatment is a painless process. It’s that simple!”

Dr Rahul Doshi’s 5 simple steps to beautiful teeth STEP 1: Signature Comprehensive Complete Care Dental Assessment.

The first step in the process is a highly detailed examination process, allowing Dr. Doshi to make suitable recommendations for your treatment.

STEP 2: Your Customised Treatment Plan.

A customised treatment programme suited to you and your budget is created. There are a number of finance options available to help you create your beautiful new smile and be happy about the entire process.

Dr. Doshi has found that the Customised Smile Makeover is a very popular treatment because he uses multi-procedure approaches to provide solutions to a number of problems. He uses the latest dental techniques, including porcelain veneers, crowns, dental implants or bridges and laser technology, to plan a new smile. He also takes account of the type of smile the patient is looking for and the patient’s facial features so that he can create a completely new and individual smile in his design.

He says the key is in the planning and creation of a “Trial Smile”.

This is a temporary smile that the patient can go away with and that he can make changes to according to the patient’s wishes.

This means that the final smile is unique and exactly what the patient is looking for. Dr. Rahul Doshi is a vocal advocate of the Customised Smile Makeover because of its ability to change people. “This one cosmetic treatment can create the most outstanding transformation - releasing a new wave of inner confidence,” he says. “Lives are improved as confidence grows and you no longer feel awkward and uncomfortable in social situations.” State-of-the-art technology, systems and products are used to help design your new smile.

Problems such as crowded teeth, protruding teeth, gaps, unsightly discoloured teeth, crooked teeth and “gummy” or narrow smiles can now all be solved with a treatment which takes a complete holistic look at the whole problem, rather than focusing simply on one element of your smile. “We look at many aspects influencing your ultimate smile makeover to create a beautiful customised smile suited to your face,” says Dr. Doshi. “We let your facial shape, skin colour and tone, facial muscles, bite, lips, the condition and shape of your existing teeth and the condition and visibility of your gums influence the treatment you receive. I believe in making your teeth, look feel and work better!” For example, for those people who dislike the idea of drilling and extensive work, Dr. Doshi can create a new smile without drilling, using UltraThin veneers built into the smile design. “Veneers allow us to change the appearance, colour, shape and form of teeth,” said Dr. Doshi. “No drilling

STEP 3: The Trial Smile.

A key step in the creation of your smile, your “Trial Smile” gives you the opportunity to “try-out” your new smile and see if it is suited to the style and look that you want.

STEP 4: The Review Appointment This is an important appointment where you share your feedback with Dr. Doshi, who then incorporates all the additional changes that you may want. This means that the resulting smile becomes unique to you.

STEP 5: Fitting of your new smile.

Finally, we fit your smile - and past experience tells us that you won’t stop smiling from this day forth!

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The Perfect Smile Studios and Institute, 7/9 South Street Hertford, Herts SG14 1AZ

FOOD & DRINK

RICK STEIN - IN SEARCH OF THE PERFECT CURRY

PRAWN FRITTERS WITH CHUTNEY AND KACHUMBER FROM THE ALLEN KITCHEN, KOLKATA I couldn’t work out why these prawn cutlets were so delicious; there seemed to be nothing to them, just a simple batter, a bit of lemon, some onion rings and a bottle of mustard sauce.

But the very enthusiastic blogger from Calcutta called Kaniska was keen to point out that this tiny little hole in the wall was one of the most popular foodie spots in the city. They may have put a secret ingredient in the batter, but I expect the success lies in using chickpea flour and frying the battered prawns in pure ghee. I consumed a few plates of them while having a thoroughly enjoyable conversation about the almost infinite possibilities of street food in that city. Later I woke up in the middle of the night in my hotel with my head spinning, thinking the pace of life was so frenetic that I was surely locked into a madhouse, albeit with some of the tastiest food I’ve ever found. This makes a quite soft batter, not a thick, crisp batter like you’d get with fish and chips.

METHOD To prepare the prawns, pull off the head and peel away the shell, leaving the tail intact. Use a small, sharp knife to run down the back of the prawns and pull out the black intestinal tracts, if visible. Then use the knife to cut almost all the way through the prawns and butterfly them open. Flatten them out a little with the palm of your hand. Pat dry with kitchen towel.

For the batter, mix the flours and salt together, whisk in the egg and enough of the water to give a smooth batter the consistency of single cream.

Serves 4 12 extra large unpeeled Raw prawns For the batter 60g plain flour 60g chickpea flour ¼tsp salt 1 free-range egg 150–225ml water 70g ghee, for frying To serve Lemon wedges, Mustard chutney Tomato chutney or Chilli garlic relish and Kachumber salad

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Heat the ghee in a heavy-based saucepan or karahi over a medium heat. Once hot, dip 2 or 3 prawns in the batter and carefully lower into the ghee. Fry for 2–3 minutes, turning once, until crisp and golden and cooked through. Drain on kitchen paper. Repeat with the remaining prawns. Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over and chutney and kachumber salad on the side.

KACHUMBER SALAD - SERVES 8 -10 300g vine-ripened tomatoes, thinly sliced 1/2 cucumber, sliced 100g red onions, halved and thinly sliced 1 fresh green chilli, finely chopped 1/2 tsp toasted ground cumin seeds 1/4 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder Large handful of fresh coriander leaves, roughly chopped Freshly ground black pepper 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice or white wine vinegar Lime wedges (optional), to finish Layer the ingredients, or gently toss together, just before serving. Serve with lime wedges, if desired.

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SWEET AND TANGY POTATO SHREDS Lilo chevda This is a snack beloved by Gujaratis, a sweet and sour shredded spiced potato dish. The shredded potatoes are deep fried until crisp, as are the lentils, cashew nuts and peanuts, but plenty of lime juice is sprinkled on just before you start eating so you get this tantalizing mix of crisp bits and soft bits. There’s plenty of chilli in it, sweetness from the raisins and sugar, sharpness from the lime juice, and a good sprinkling of salt too. Perfect balance in street food.

Serves 8 150g chana dal (Bengal gram or split yellowpeas), soaked overnight in coldwater 1kg potatoes, such as Maris Piper, peeled, coarsely grated Vegetable oil, for deep frying Salt 3 tbsp unsalted cashew nuts or peanuts (skinned) 1 tbsp sesame seeds 1 tbsp fennel seeds ½tsp turmeric 1½tbsp caster sugar, plus extra to taste 2 fresh green chillies, finely chopped with seeds 2 tbsp raisins Juice of 1–2 limes

METHOD Drain the chana dal and pat dry with kitchen paper. Spread out on a tray lined with a clean tea towel (or more kitchen paper) and leave on one side. Soak the prepared potatoes in salted water for 20 minutes. Drain, use your hands to squeeze out any excess moisture, then pat dry with kitchen paper.

Two-thirds fill a large, deep-sided sturdy pan with vegetable oil and place over a medium heat. Test it’s hot enough by dropping in a piece of potato; it should sizzle and turn golden in about 20 seconds. (Or use a deep-fat fryer heated to 180°C.) Deep-fry the potatoes in batches until crisp and golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. Season with half a teaspoon of salt and set aside. Using the same oil, fry the chana dal in batches for about 3–4 minutes, or until they rise to the surface and turn a shade darker. Drain on kitchen paper, and add to the fried potatoes.

Heat a heavy-based frying pan over a low-medium heat. Add the cashew nuts or peanuts and fry for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted. Add the sesame seeds and fennel seeds and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring all the time.

Remove from the heat and stir in the turmeric, followed by the sugar, half a teaspoon of salt, the chillies and the raisins, then mix with the potatoes and lentils. Add plenty of lime juice to give a sweet-sour flavour (you may need to add more sugar and salt at this stage to balance the flavour). Serve at room temperature in small bowls as a snack.

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19

IN THE HOME

HOW COLOURS CAN CHANGE A ROOM It’s surprising how much the colours and fabrics in a room can vastly improve and change the look of it. Picking a new colour for the walls, or buying a new rug or carpet can mix up the style of your home and make it look brand new.

Colours in the living area are so important and have a big impact on the feel of the room and the mood of the people within it. Painting a room is a much quicker and cheaper way of decorating because it is then easier to change and redecorate in the future, without the hassle of removing and replacing wallpaper.

If you are looking for a warm and energetic environment, try a red or orange tone. This may not be suitable for those wanting to relax with the family as they are loud colours, but if you are the type of person who likes entertaining, then the warmth will brighten up the vibe of the room. Yellow is the perfect warm colour for livening up your space, but try to keep it to a feature or accent wall. Too much of it can be overpowering.

incorporate furniture and patterns, but allow the room

For those folk who want to feel laid back and relaxed, a cooler

refined.

blue or green room might be more suitable. Do be careful of the shades you pick however. An icy blue may make visitors feel unwelcome. A warmer shade, such as turquoise, may give the desired effect you want, but make others feel more

to become a peaceful setting, which looks elegant and

Combinations of fabrics and patterns are also hugely inspiring when it comes to decorating and can create a theme for your house that you may wish to follow; from

welcome as well.

a cosy cottage to a Tuscan villa. If your tastes cater to soft

For a more sophisticated feel, stick to neutral tones, whites

a cottage style home may be your cup of tea, where as

pastels, floral fabrics and rustic wood furnishings, then

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finding wallpapers with an old plaster texture, tapestry style rugs and cushions with gold, coppers and greens infused can give the feel of Tuscany in your home.

Carpets are a highly important part of a room. Many people prefer plain, block colour materials on their floors, which are great for flexibility when designing and changing styles. However they can make a large room look empty. Going for a patterned carpet might seem a bit risky, but if the right one is selected, it can make a big difference. Patterns can create a focal point in a big room if you feel like keeping the furniture quite simple, but try and avoid busy patterns in a small room as this can make the space seem closed in and cluttered.

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FINAL TIPS...

Fabric texture is also important.

Kristen Schmitt says on Better Homes

Fabrics can easily change up a room, don’t be afraid to experiment.

l

and Gardens that: “Texture adds dimension to a room. It appeals to

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our senses, both visual and tactile,

which makes the room interesting.”

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Be aware of light and colours. Warmer light coming into your house allows for cooler colours. With colder light, try a warmer colour.

Something as simple as adding a mirror can instantly make a room look bigger.

Add some pillows and cushions to your bed and sofa; fluffy, ruffled,

l

floral,tartan, anything that takes your

l

fancy. Even a textured throw for the in a room. Bring in a patterned rug to create a focal point and make small

Buy a signature piece of furniture or rug you like and base the colour scheme around that.

Bright ornaments and furniture can look great in an otherwise plain, white room.

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You don’t need a massive income to completely change your style.

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end of the bed can provide a contrast

Patterns are good, but don’t go overboard.

rooms look larger. Round shapes in a square room can also soften the space. Don’t be afraid of contrasting patterns and colours either, but try not to go beyond three and use samples to decide on the best combinations.

You may think that adding a splash of colour to your home will get expensive but that isn’t the case.

Paint is a much cheaper option than

wallpaper, but how about just re-painting and wallpapering one wall in a vibrant colour or pattern to add some variation. If you can’t afford a new sofa or lounge chair, find some new fabric you like and get the existing furniture reupholstered.

Wooden furniture is easy to transform too. Take an old chair that needs a make over, or buy a cheap one from a second hand shop. All it needs is sanding down and a coat of paint, to fit whatever mood you are going for in the room, and you have a brand new piece of furniture. The same can be done with tables, cupboards, and fireplaces.

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22

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TWITTER

To lick or not to lick?

Social media shrinks the world When I began my career it was with a three-ton Remington typewriter that deafened the street, now I can find friends in Louisiana with the flick of a finger.

Graham Smith Twitter Column

Social media has shrunk the world, technology is advancing at such a pace that it is difficult to keep pace with the latest developments and new inventions that were once the stuff of science fiction are an everyday occurrence.

But at what cost is all this in terms of progress? Sales of printed books have plummeted as the world spends an increasing portion of its life on computers, tablets and mobile phones and I worry sometimes that there is a danger of losing the power of joined up thought. Recently I was reading a piece sent to me on the Internet and half a dozen of the sentences written didn’t even begin with the standard capital letter. Worrying.

I know people who are closing their Facebook accounts now because they have almost taken over their lives, and I have to say that on Twitter some of the most inane facts and comments are creeping in now. Do you really need to say, "Goodnight tweeps”? Just turn the thing off!

Neither is the net and social media the province of the young, as it was. Increasing numbers of older people are using the social interaction on offer and in many cases it can provide a relief for loneliness and replace a social life lost due to immobility or loss of a partner, so no bad thing there.

Drives you mad Motorists are often an easy target but I notice that recently some have been getting away with blue murder.

Did you read about the idiot who was caught driving with his hands behind his head? The clot was doing 62mph on a major road in a large four-wheel drive and argues in court that he was in full control of the car. Fortunately the court didn’t agree and banned him for a year and imposed a hefty fine and community service order. But what possesses these people?

There are also cases of motorists still driving with over 30 and sometimes 40 points on their licences because magistrates have shown leniency towards their circumstances. Why? If you’ve clocked up that amount of points you’re quite simply not fit to drive a vehicle and I have serious doubts whether you should be using a wheelbarrow without stabilisers.

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Do you seal your envelopes? Apparently whether you should or not has been the subject of a major and no doubt costly operation. Many older people labour under the misapprehension that you can send an unsealed envelope with a second class stamp on and it will be delivered first class. Err, no.

The younger generation have other ideas. One Internet observation reads, “ Whilst I do seal my envelopes the first thing that came to mind when I saw the headline was the story that went round when I was at school and later repeated on a viral email about cockroach eggs being laid on the glue and when you lick it if you get a paper cut they can hatch in your lip.”

A quick Google showed this story is still on the urban legends websites but it wouldn’t surprise me if that was the reason for people around early 30s.

Health and Safety nonsense Yes I know I’ve twittered about this before but here goes again.

Our village church clock was stopped for several months recently because the Health and Safety ogres decreed that the ladder used to reach the mechanism was too short.

This was despite it having been used for years by a six-foot plus ex-policeman.

Consequently it was twenty past three in Haworth for eight months until a grant was raised to provide a longer ladder!

You couldn’t make it up could you? The bell ringers swung on ropes every Monday night during that period but the poor chap couldn’t wind the clock up because some mentally challenged twerp had nothing better to do than condemn the ladder.

Have these people nothing better to do? How come one of them was lurking in Haworth Church clock tower to see the ladder in the first place?

And he was back at Christmas to chuck Santa Claus out of the boiler room because there might have been asbestos!

Poor chap had to cuddle customers in a gazebo outside the building. Talk about no room at the inn, and the donkey had to wear a coat.

These chaps would have been a riot in Bethlehem.

There’s have been no stable accommodation, too draughty and get those sheep of the bedclothes. You cannot bring your camel in here and stop swinging that foul smelling stuff under the baby’s nose….and has that chap with the wings got a Civil Aviation licence? The mind boggles.

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Your local choice More and more people are “going private” whenever they need hospital care, in fact last year over nearly 6,000 private patients were admitted to The Rivers Hospital in Sawbridgeworth.

However many people still do not realise how easy it can be to access Private Healthcare, or the benefit it can bring.

Private health care is available to you whether or not you have Private Medical Insurance. If your family doctor is referring you to hospital, simply ask for a private referral. You are advised to check your policy for insurance cover, or if self funding contact the Hospital’s enquiry line for an estimate of costs.

As a Rivers Hospital private patient you will enjoy Premium Care benefits – with high quality levels of care and comfort, to help you quickly back onto the road to recovery. no waiting list When you “Go Private” there is no lengthy waiting list – This means you can get fast access to diagnostic tests, and Consultant Specialist advice, as well as early admission to hospital if you need treatment, therefore getting better more quickly. expert Clinical Care Private patient care is led by a Consultant Specialist, and your treatment will be delivered by the Consultant, rather than a more junior doctor. The Consultant is supported by a friendly, skilled team of nurses and healthcare professionals,

including a doctor on site 24 hours per day.

Medical Facilities Ramsay Health Care invests in the latest medical technologies so that your Consultant has modern clinical equipment to diagnose and treat your condition. safety and Cleanliness You can be reassured that The Rivers hospital has very high standards of Clinical quality and safety, and is strictly regulated by the Care Quality Commission. The hospital has effective infection control measures, with cleanliness a top priority.

Premium Care Benefits – Comfort & Privacy during your hospital stay If you need to stay in hospital you can enjoy fast track admission to a comfortable single room with en-suite facilities, and excellent hotel services including free satellite TV viewing, wi-fi access and newspaper.

Having your own room means you can have privacy when you want it, although The Rivers has open visiting hours, so your family and friends can see you whenever you want company.

The Rivers offers free car parking, so there are no worries about parking charges or penalties.

Caring for you Independent research shows patient satisfaction levels in Ramsay Hospitals to be among the top 2% of all UK organisations, with most patients commenting on how well cared for they have felt during their stay. self Pay Packages – Fixed Cost Care If you are waiting for surgery The Rivers offers self pay package prices, which are all–inclusive of the Surgeon, Anaesthetist and Hospital charges, so you will know the costs at the outset.

Please call the Hospital Services Enquiries team on 01279 602 644 for a price estimate and further advice or guidance.

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Contact us If you would like more information please visit www.rivers-hospital.co.uk or contact Rivers Hospital, Sawbridgeworth On: 01279 602 644 or email: rivers.enquiries@ramsayhealth.co.uk

LEGAL

Silver divorces Isn’t the modern age marvellous?

For some couples the answer is simply no they do not.

Having done the ‘hard work’, many couples realise that they have simply drifted apart. Their individual goals are no longer unified and, in many cases, one half of the couple wish to explore life in a different direction or take on new challenges. It can be the case, as retirement approaches, that one partner has wholly different interests the other.

Advances in medicine have meant that we all live a lot longer and are very much healthier. The social constraints that bound our parents as to what was expected of them and how people are supposed to behave and supposed to live have seemingly fallen away. We are more affluent and have reaped the benefits of boom times in the economy.

also meant that many couples, as they approach retirement, are in a different position from what they had anticipated. Their children are grown up and gone (or about to leave the nest). The family home they bought in the 1970’s for £80,000 is now worth £750,000 (or more). The mortgage is long paid off. They have the opportunity of looking forward to a lovely comfortable retirement.

Generally speaking, a productive and enjoyable retirement is longer than ever. The ability to travel, move and live in other countries in retirement has led to an explosion in alternative lifestyles that our parents wouldn’t have contemplated.

A generation plus of world peace (by and large) has also aided to this bountiful time.

However, recent trends show that many couples are looking at this time ahead of them and wondering whether they wish to continue to spend that time with the person who was suitable for them when they first met, with whom they successfully raised their children, but with whom they no longer have anything other than a friendship in common - and sometimes not even that.

Given the stigma of divorce has long since passed, one of the options for such couples, rather than remaining together, is to take what they have built together, divide it between them and go on and live separate lives.

Happily, in my experience, many “silver divorces” are not the bitter, acrimonious or recrimination-lead affairs that, regrettably, I see people in their late twenties and early thirties embarking upon.

Over the past decade, there has been an increasing trend towards mediation and collaboration and the negotiation of a fair settlement.

More often or not, though one party may be surprised that the marriage has come to an end, there is a much more mature and reflective understanding of the other's needs and the desire to separate. This is much more pronounced in the silver divorcee generation.

So while I, and my colleagues, have

However, these altering choices and different social conditions have

26

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Julian is a Partner at Rayden Solicitors, specialising in medium to high-worth matrimonial cases. Julian also deals regularly with Civil partnership disputes, cohabitation disputes, separation agreements, pre-nuptial agreements and additional financial provision for children of unmarried parents.

seen a growing rise in the number of the so called “silver divorces”, they are often the least acrimonious and the most constructive.

This may be assisted by any issues to do with the children having long since been resolved by virtue of children having grown to adulthood; as adults, they can deal with their parents on a mature level and, having had their own relationships, are a lot more attuned to and open to understanding of the complexity of marital relationships.

Julian Bremner ‘Aggressive pragmatism’ is how Julian describes his method of practice. He believes that his ability to review cases and impose a workable strategy is what assists his clients to achieve their objectives which is increasingly to negotiate a fair and reasonable settlement.

Also, it is generally the case that the division of the marital pot is easier as, generally speaking, there is very little debt attached to the marriage by the time of separation.

Parties are able to see that if they sell their greatest assets (generally their home) they are able to comfortably afford alternative accommodation for each of them. It is also the case that pensions may be in payment (or about to be in payment) and, without the burden of a mortgage, the parties are able see that they can live without hardship on the income that has been generated by their joint endeavours over the course of a long marriage.

Julian qualified as a barrister and solicitor in the Supreme Court of Tasmania and the High Court of Australia (including the Federal Court of Australia and the Family Court of Australia) in 1996. He has been practicing in the United Kingdom since 2000 and is cross-admitted in this jurisdiction.

The process of divorce is often a lot simpler for silver divorcees. After taking legal advice (so that there is an understanding of what the law is likely to say in their specific situation and so as to gain an understanding of what their options are) silver divorcees are able to talk to their soon to be former partner and come to an agreement that they are both comfortable with.

As a barrister, Julian conducted his own trials on a regular basis and is therefore not afraid of robustly pursuing his client’s case when strength is required.

This is not to say that Julian does not agree that a negotiated settlement is a good settlement. He is dual qualified and is admitted to the Roll of Solicitors in England and Wales. He has practiced family law in England since January 2000.

If they are unable to do this directly they can do this through sensible solicitor negotiation or mediation. Very few silver divorcees end up in a contested hearing before a Judge in Court.

He also believes that his own trial experience helps him to focus on client objectives and the end result as well as assisting him with dealing with Counsel in the preparation of his client’s cases.

Julian is listed in the Legal 500 2013 as a ‘skilful and hardnosed negotiator’ and is a member of Resolution.

He regularly contributes articles for professional periodicals such as the Family Law Journal and the Family Law Newsletter; covering a broad range of legal issues.

It is then merely a matter of their solicitors reducing their agreement into Consent Orders that can be approved by the court.

So whilst divorce is always a difficult time in anyone’s life, as a general rule, a silver divorcee at least has the knowledge that their divorce will be as painless as this process can be.

Rayden Solicitors

The Limes St Albans Tel: 01727 734260

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Email Julian at jab@raydensolicitors.co.uk or Call 01727 734260

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| | |

32-34 Upper Marlborough Road AL1 3UU Fax: 01727 734279

www.raydensolicitors.co.uk

27

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Record the life and final farewell of your loved one Why would you want to video a funeral?

Not everyone reacts positively to the idea of videoing a funeral. When asked about their misgivings, many say that it just doesn’t seem right. After all, shouldn’t videos be all about recording joyful occasions, not sad ones?

It’s interesting though, that when people are given a little more time to think about the benefits of having a video; they almost always change their minds. So why is this?

Perhaps it is to do with the way that we are conditioned to think. We attend funerals experiencing the pain of loss. We go through a range of difficult emotions, we are not in control, and we do not want this recorded in a movie.

But then how often do we think, after attending a funeral, of how the service has actually helped us focus on and commemorate the life of the person we have lost?

Often, the things we remember most are the eulogies - the often humorous, moving and heart-warming stories that trace the impact a life has made, and which so often form the core of the service.

It would actually be more accurate to say that, due to the emotional nature of the occasion, most of us only remember some of what was said in the eulogies. This is why it so common, when the funeral service is over, for the close friend or relative who has delivered the eulogy to be asked for a transcript.

For this, and many other reasons, Hertfordshire’s oldest family firm Austin’s has become the first funeral company in the UK to offer its own dedicated Tribute Film service.

30

A piece of living history Explaining the decision to offer the service, Claire Austin, Managing Director of her 300 year old company, highlighted the extra comfort and solace that a video could offer to bereaved families: “When you think about it, a Tribute Film is actually a piece of living history. A funeral service brings people together to commemorate, remember and celebrate a life. Having a video provides people with a record of an event that although difficult, is also very important.”

Claire Austin

“Even though a funeral service can be a painful experience for all of us in many ways, it is very common for people to speak of the positive things about it too.

“Families and friends come together again, often seeing each other after many years, and although people promise to stay in touch, the reality of our everyday lives takes over and this doesn’t always happen.

“A funeral is important, but it is a moment and it passes.

Our Tribute Films give people a piece of living history – something that will be with them forever.

“It is perhaps important to remember that healing is more likely to occur when loved ones who are no longer with us are remembered, rather than forgotten.”

This point rings especially true when we think of children and future generations in a family. Young people have a right – and so often also a real desire – to know about deceased family members they never knew. What was special about this person? What were their qualities and achievements and why were they so loved? A film can help them see the answers.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Why would you not want to video a funeral?

Once people start to see through their initial distaste at the idea of funeral video, the many benefits start to become clear. According to Claire Austin, the question probably should not be ‘why’ but ‘why not’: “The people who have used our new Tribute Film service are just so positive about what we have given them. They truly value their videos. For us, it is easy to see why video may very soon become regarded as a normal part of funeral director’s services.”

The range of options in Austins Tribute Film service means that families will receive a highly personalised tribute to their loved one. Expanding on this point, Austin’s videographer Mark Vasey explained: “Sensitivity is the absolute key for us, which is why we will never have a front camera on people’s faces. People may just choose to have a video of the service itself, but they may choose further options which capture more about a person’s life.

“These films are not formulaic in any way. Every life tells its own story, and this is what we want to capture, relate and celebrate in pictures, words and music.”

Austin’s Tribute Services www.austins.co.uk 07792 907688

Personal, caring and independent.

The complete funeral service

“To identify the best film, the key is in the time we spend talking and finding out about the person – their work, interests, relationships and all those things that together gave their life meaning and happiness.”

Private Ch P Chapels l off Rest R

A new chance to look back, after many years

Memorial Stonemasons

Austin’s also offers a special Memorial Tributes service, a chance to create a film of someone who passed away many years previously.

24 2 4 hhour our sservice ervice

• • •

Funeral Plans

•

Own Crematorium

These films can be created with images from a funeral itself, but they can also be a mixture of photos, music, old video or cine film, highlighting special milestones, humorous events or achievements. People may want to include comments or soundbites from family or friends, favourite music, old letters, postcards and even children’s paintings and drawings.

A Memorial Tribute also offers the chance to trace back through family trees, putting names to old photos and documents to enable future generations to remember important family legacies.

www.austins.co.uk S T E V E N AG E • 01438 316623 H I T CH I N • 01462 438422 K N E B WO RT H • 01438 812365 B UN T I N G F OR D • 01763 274111

WELWYN GARDEN CITY • 01707 390018 W E LW Y N • 01438 714686 H E RT F O R D • 01992 582052 WA R E • 01920 468551

Serving the local community for ten generations austins_dove_PORT_FPC_279x186_artwork.indd 1

21/11/11 09:53:16

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