Kirklees & Calderdale 47

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KIRKLEES & CALDERDALE

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SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2015

EDITION 47

John Torode The Master Chef Shares some recipes with us

The Azores An amazing archipelago

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WHY CHOOSE US? The Robinsons Difference ....

4 Good quality hotels 4 Coach seating with extra legroom 4 Air-conditioning and washroom /W.C. on all tour coach 4 Reserved coach seats on main tour coach at time of booking 4 Regular comfort stops en route 4 Home pick up service available 4 Interesting excursions 4 No single supplements at our own hotels and many other hotels 4 Excellent selection of great value checked hotels 4 Friendly drivers and porterage services to help with your luggage 4 Pay in convenient instalments at no extra cost 4 All holidays Bonded for passengers financial protection 4 Friendly & informed reservations staff to take care of all your booking arrangements 4 Freephone telephone number to save you money 4 Full group booking service with great offers for group organisers 4 Optional insurance cover for 2015 now available

We offer you ...

4 Accommodation with dinner, bed & breakfast 4 2 included excursions 4 All rooms have private facilities

SINGLES ....

COME ALONG AND MEET NEW FRIENDS LOTS OF ACTIVITIES AND ENTERTAINMENT TO GET TO KNOW EACH OTHER

Imperial Hotel Eastbourne

Ocean View Hotel Isle of Wight

Abbey Lawn Hotel Torquay

INCLUDES: WELCOME RECEPTION AFTERNOON TEA DANCE WITH OUR RESIDENT ENTERTAINER FESTIVE GALA DINNER (ON 1 NIGHT) 2 LOCAL EXCURSIONS

14th De c 5 Days

£149

5 DAY TOUR

4 NIGHTS DINNER, BED & BREAKFAST

Robinsons Own Hotels October Madness ...

NEW TOURS at reduced prices

Imperial Hotel 5 DAY TOUR

4 NIGHTS DINNER, BED & BREAKFAST

Date Imperial Ocean View Abbey Lawn 03-Oct £189 £189 £189 07-Oct £189 £189 £189 11-Oct £179 £179 £179 17-Oct £179 £179 £179 21-Oct £179 £179 £179 25-Oct £179 £179 £179 31-Oct - - £179

2

Ocean View Hotel 7 DAY TOUR

6 NIGHTS DINNER, BED & BREAKFAST

Date Imperial Ocean View 11-Oct £239 £239 25-Oct £239 £239

Abbey Lawn £239 £239

Abbey Lawn Hotel 9 DAY TOUR

8 NIGHTS DINNER, BED & BREAKFAST

Date Imperial Ocean View 03-Oct £289 £289 17-Oct £279 £279 31-Oct - -

Abbey Lawn £289 £279 £279

ALL 5/7/9 DAY TOURS INCLUDE 2 LOCAL EXCURSIONS

To Book Call 0800 083 9900 or Visit your Local Travel Agent | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

GET FESTIVE WITH...

Celebrate Christmas and New Year in comfort and free from stress at one of Robinsons own hotels

Imperial Hotel Eastbourne

£399 Thursford Christmas Market 5 DAYS Set in the magical surroundings of mechanical organs and fairground carousels, word of this amazing show has spread and it is now generally recognised as being the largest show of its kind in the country, if not Europe.

A three hour fast moving celebration of the festive season and the largest Christmas show in the country, with a cast of 130 professional singers and dancers.

Link Park Hotel 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast.

Mon 09 Nov £399 Mon 07 Dec £399

£275 BABBACOMBE Seabury Hotel | 5 DAYS Situated on the north eastern fringe of Torquay, Babbacombe boasts stunning views of the coastline and harbour. A holiday destination with its own charm and character, colourful promenade, a wide selection of shops, restaurants and bars, Babbacombe offers something for everyone. Spend your days relaxing on the charming beach beneath the cliffs, or discover the rock pools and coastal walks. For interesting and scenic walks, the South West Coastal Path is a popular route, or why not visit the historic cliff railway, one of the few original funicular railways still in working order.

Seabury Hotel 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast.

Mon 16 Nov

£275

Christmas & New Year

Ocean View Hotel Isle of Wight

BABBACOME, SEABURY HOTEL Wed 23 Dec

£399

£295

Includes 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast. 3 resort lunches and 1 mystery excursion

BOURNEMOUTH, MAYFAIR HOTEL

Abbey Lawn Hotel Torquay

Wed 23 Dec

£485

Includes 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast. 3 resort lunches and 1 mystery excursion

Llandudno, situated between the Little Orme to the east and the Great Orme to the west, is the largest resort in North Wales and incorporates some of the most beautiful scenery in the Welsh mountains and coastline. The long flat promenade which possesses one of the finest piers and its town centre, with excellent shopping facilities, contribute to making Llandudno a very popular tourist resort.

WESTON SUPER MARE, SANDRINGHAM HOTEL

Kensington Hotel 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast.

Includes:

Includes 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast. 3 resort lunches and 1 mystery excursion

bed & breakfast d 3 resort lunches d 1 mystery excursion

LLANDUDNO, KENSINGTON HOTEL

d 4 nights dinner,

LLANDUDNO Kensington Hotel | 5 DAYS

Wed 23 Dec

Wed 23 Dec

£475

£519

Mon 07 Dec £295

Includes 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast. 3 resort lunches and 1 mystery excursion

LANCASHIRE & RIBBLE VALLEY TOUR

Wed 23 Dec £399 Wed 29 Dec £349

Wed 23 Dec

£399

Includes 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast. 3 resort lunches and 1 mystery excursion

www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk

Park Garage, Great Harwood, BlackburnWWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK BB6 7SP.

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CONTENTS

Crazy news Traditional newspaper circulation is plummeting like a stone and it seems some will stop at nothing to spin a crazy yarn to attract readers.

INSIDE...

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10-11

12-13

18-19

It all began years ago with the “Freddie Starr ate my Graham Smith hamster” farce, conjured up by a ne’er do well publicist now residing at Her Majesty’s pleasure. Looking at some of today’s offerings that story almost becomes believable. The Daily Express, once a highly respected broadsheet newspaper, is now the epitomy of tabloid tack. Only recently they reported that aliens found just 25 miles above the earth could hold the secret of life.

Well of course they could, any fool knows that. They’ll be telling us next that 650 elected MPs in Westminster are good for the country, we’d believe that as well wouldn’t we?

30-31

24-25

But this has to be my favourite. One fan of the treat pease pudding alarmed security at Newcastle Airport who were concerned by its apparent similarity to the dangerous explosive Semtex.

The passenger was taking tubs of the treat on an easyJet flight to Gatwick when he was stopped during routine searches of hand luggage.

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The Azores An amazing archipelago.

The 58-year-old, an actor from Newcastle who now lives in Sussex, offered to let staff taste the dish but they declined.

“I love my pease pudding,” said the passenger, who wished to remain anonymous.

10-11

Canal Cruising An indulgent treat and education rolled into one .

“I think the resemblance to Semtex was pushing it a bit far as it was in containers marked pease pudding.

12-13

John Torode The Master Chef.

18-19

Changing Rooms Take a fresh look at your home.

24-25

Cook with the Stars!

John Torode shares two of his favourite recipes.

30-31

Out and About What's going on in your local area?

“But I did have six tubs to take back down south with me.I told them that they could taste it if they wanted to.

“One of the security guys said to me that it had come up on the scanner. He told me ‘technically, this could be classed as Semtex’.

“I told them that they could taste it if they wanted to.

“At that point they said ‘next time put it in the hold’.”

After airport staff further examined the six tubs the traveller was cleared to take them on the flight.

Pease pudding is made from boiled legumes and traditionally loved in the North East of England.

The anonymous passenger added: “I was very glad that they allowed me to keep them in the end.

“It is quite hard to get your hands on pease pudding down south.”

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

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An HM Customs spokeswoman said: “There is no customs policy with regard to pease pudding so far as I am aware.”

A spokeswoman for Newcastle Airport said they did not comment on security matters.

50 Plus Travel

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The Azores – an amazing archipelago

By Jennie Carr from Silver Travel Advisor Islands are fascinating places, and none more so than The Azores, an archipelago of nine islands in the mid-Atlantic.

The result of a volcanic ridge, they are in fact, Portuguese, officially discovered in 1432 by Goncalo Velho Cabral, even though Lisbon is nearly 1,500 kilometres to the east.

And why on earth would you visit these somewhat isolated islands? Ben Fogle, adventurer, explorer and broadcaster, waxes lyrical about The Azores due to the contrasts that occur within them – other worldly landscapes as you would imagine on the moon, with pumice stone and frozen lava formations, then a hillside away, lush, dense plants growing in the fertile volcanic soil producing magnificent azaleas and hydrangeas.

The volcanic craters are now filled with deep blue, green lakes and steaming,

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bubbling fumaroles, a reminder that whilst the local volcanoes are dormant, they are certainly not extinct! A trip to the Furnas Valley will swiftly provide evidence of this. Another great fan of The Azores, Noel Josephides founder of Sunvil Holidays, compares them to New Zealand, both in their startling geographical features and also their ambiance, more of which later.

The British are famous for their love of gardens and plants, which are some of the greatest attractions here, with the hydrangeas producing stunning displays across the islands in June and in April, the azaleas are at their best.

The wild agapanthus grow with gusto and rather gorgeous tree ferns add to the remarkable list of self-seeding plants here. It seems as if the climate, which is mild and temperate due to the Gulf Stream, where even on winter days it never gets colder than 14C, with the summers reaching about 27C and rain

TRAVEL always a possibility, combined with the rich earth provide growing conditions in which almost anything can flourish.

The unexpected Gorreana tea estate and plantation, over 125 years old, is certainly testament to this as are the pineapple greenhouses on Sao Miguel, where the Ananaz (the specific pineapple grown on the Azores) is celebrated.

So apart from the horticulture, what is there to do? These islands are certainly a draw for the outdoor types, there is walking and hiking aplenty to enjoy, just so long as you take a good waterproof jacket as a shower is never far away. The UNESCO heritage site at Santa Luzia vineyards is certainly worth a visit and if your legs are up to it, Mount Pico can be climbed! For those who are happy in or on water, kayaking and canyoning are on offer, the former a gentle way to explore the coast line of dramatic cliffs and the latter a type of coastal obstacle course which really gets you up close and personal with nature. There is no getting away from the fact that The Azores are in the middle of the Atlantic, so a boat trip is a must, with the strong possibility of seeing whales, sharks and mantra rays. And swimming with dolphins is an option too.

To return to the ambiance of The Azores, they are proclaimed to be ‘homely’ rather than sophisticated, no designer clothing needed, sturdy footwear essential, running at a leisurely pace and on ‘island’ time, which does sound relaxing and rather calming.

Accommodation here is comfortable, with small family hotels and charming quintas, giving the opportunity to get to know the locals and understand the way of life. International hotel chains have yet to arrive here, no bad thing perhaps for preserving a special place.

And whilst the islands are based on historic volcanic activity, it seems that

the current tranquil, laid back lifestyle is doing all it can to counteract this. Ben Fogle’s infectious enthusiasm for the Azores encourages all active travellers to pay a visit and find out more.

Visit silvertraveladvisor.com and type Ben Fogel into the Search box to listen to his radio interview with Jennie Carr.

Visit the Azores with the experts - Sunvil Discovery The unspoiled beauty of the Azorean archipelago, the warm and welcoming nature of the local people and the abundance of wildlife – whales, dolphins, turtles and migrating birds to name a few captured the heart of independent tour operator, Sunvil Discovery, 25 years ago.

With first-hand knowledge of the nine islands, the team at Sunvil can carefully craft a holiday to meet your individual requirements.

Whether you are searching for a whale and dolphin watching holiday; a multi-island adventure; a trip incorporating visits to fascinating sites of geological importance and botanical gardens, a climb of MountPico – Portugal’s highest peak or walking, jeep touring, canyoning and kayaking, they can help.

Prices from £543 per person including return direct flights from London Gatwick, transfers and 7-nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation on Sao Miguel.

For more information visit www.sunvil.co.uk/discovery Or call + 44 (0)20 8758 4722

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

89 nclusive ££139 holidays GREAT VALUE GREAT VALUE 55 DAY DAY HALF BOARD HALF BOARD BREAKS BREAKS

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When itit comes comes to to inviting, inviting, relaxing relaxing When breaks in in the the south, south, we we have have the the breaks ideal holiday holiday for for you. you. ideal Whether you’re after family-friendly holidays, a romantic getaway Whether you’re after family-friendly holidays, a romantic getaway or a group break with like-minded people, our 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 across the UK to travel in comfort, while our self-drive holidays offer the freedom of having 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 Every break includes: 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 • Comfy en suiteair accommodation

board • 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 ngth of the journey. awarded the coveted TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence.

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Barrowfield Hotel

break includes: torquayEveryweymouth weymouth TORQUAY WEYMOUTH WEYMOUTH

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Russell Hotel

Barrowfield Hotel Devonshire Hotel Hotel Prince Russell Hotel • Breakfast & Regent 3-course evening meal Don’t miss these coach inclusive breaks!

Local pick up points from, Bristol, Cheltenham, Gloucester, Stroud,

TINSEL & TURKY TURKEY TINSEL BREAKS BREAKS AVAILABLE FROM £159 Request your new 2015 Don’t miss these coach brochure now!

inclusive breaks!

Local pick up points from, Halifax, Bradford, Leeds, Wakefield (Denby Dale Road), Sheffield and Tibshelf Motorway Services, make it easy to get away.

DATE HOTEL DAYS BOARD NOW Don’t missDESTINATION these coach inclusive breaks!

October Local pick up points from, Bristol, Cheltenham, Gloucester, Stroud, Tewkesbury and Worcester it easy to get6away. Half 05 Claremont Hotel make – Eastbourne £184 DATE

06

Devonshire Hotel –COACH Torquay

12

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

DESTINATION HOTEL

January 08 12 16 17 23 23

DATE

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay Hotel 5 –Half £89 Wight 01 16 Daish’s Isle of Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

Half

£104

09

17 Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne 5 Half £109 11

6

Half

5

Half

5

Half

DESTINATION HOTEL

March

£159

COACH DAYS BOARD INCLUSIVE PRICE

£159

£124 £159

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

5

Half

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

Half

5

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

5

Half

£89

12

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

5

Half

Russell Hotel – Weymouth

4

Half

£89

14

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

5

Half

19

5 Half Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

£164

£139 Half £129

Hotel Prince Regent – Weymouth

24 Devonshire5Hotel Torquay Sands Hotel – Bournemouth Half –£104 24 Russell Hotel – Weymouth30

February 01

DAYS BOARD INCLUSIVE PRICE

26

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

Half

£124

April

8

Half

5 – Isle of Wight Half Daish’s Hotel Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

Half

£139 £219 £129

6

£169 Half £174

5

Half

£169 £159

02

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

5

Half

November £99 02 Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

7

Half

£214

04

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

5

Half

£119

06

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

Half

£154

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

5

Half

£109

09

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

£144

05 11 17 22 25 27

01

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight Hotel 5 –Half 22 11 Daish’s Isle £109 of Wight Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

Half

£139

23

16 Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay 5 Half £109 24 Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne 5 Half May 21 Devonshire Hotel –£139 Torquay Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

5

Half

£124

5

Half

5 5

Half

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

Half

5

Half

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

6

Half

5 Half Russell Hotel – Weymouth 5

£189

£179 £179 £184

4

£169 Half £114

Half

£169

05

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

5

Half

£154

04

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

5

Half

£174

09

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

6

Half

£244

27

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne 7 Half £334 AVAILABLE FROM £99

Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a Standard Room. Supplements apply 20 Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight 5 Half £184 on twin/double rooms with sole occupancy. Optional local excursions can be booked at the Claremont Hotel – IfEastbourne Half to£244 hotel. Many more coach or self-drive holiday dates21available in 2015. you would6prefer selfJune drive, deduct £20 per person from prices shown.

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 2015. If you would prefer to self-drive, deduct £20 per person from prices shown.

DECEMBER BREAKS AVAILABLE FROM £159

bournemouth BOURNEMOUTH

n available)

Bournemouth Sands Hotel

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isle of wight SHANKLIN Daish’s Hotel

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eastbourne EASTBOURNE Claremont Hotel

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Canal Cruising alongside the Severn is no bore

By David Graham from Silver Travel Advisor.

David has worked for much of his professional life as a journalist for national newspapers. Now retired, he is an advisor and writer for Silver Travel Advisor, the only information and review website for mature travellers.

Time and tide being what they are, we didn’t manage to see the Severn Bore but then again, cruising gently alongside the River Severn on Britain’s first-ever ship canal wasn’t a bore, either.

It turned out to be a really indulgent treat and an education rolled into one, travelling on the Gloucester to Sharpness Canal in splendidly-catered comfort on board the 153-tonne MV Edward Elgar, thanks to English Holiday Cruises.

Leaving the car in Gloucester, we headed for the boat, the largest hotel boat on Britain’s inland waterways, for 6pm, in nice time to find our cabin and then muster for a welcome drink and introductions all round, before dinner and a table quiz.

Sleep is on the lower deck, with berths for 22 passengers in 11 outside twin cabins with a window well above the waterline, all en-suite with a walk-in ‘wetroom’ shower and all mod cons, and

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with everyone looked after by a fivestrong crew, led by Captain Nick.

begins to form before racing upstream at certain times of the year.

Nick has been a mariner all his working life and his skills were evident on our first morning, when he deftly pulled away from the West Quay mooring, before heading off to exit the docks under Llanthony Bridge, lifted bang on time to let us start our journey along the canal.

We moored up here, boarded a small coach and headed past Frampton’s charming canal-side church dating from 1086 and were driven inland alongside the longest village green in England, before arriving at picturesque, poundnotes-and-pedigree Berkeley Castle.

Steeped in history and home to the same family line since the 12th century, the castle in its eight acres of gardens is well worth a visit.

This gave us time to practice waving to the people we held up, a rehearsal for our meticulously-timed arrival at Two-Mile Cut and the huge, modern Netheridge Bridge, which carries Gloucester’s south west bypass and swung open to allow our stately progress. There are a good many more bridges en route, both manual and machine-operated, each with a smiling bridge keeper.

Fuelled up with a ‘full English’ from the galley, it was time to retrace the route of the tall ships that used to carry goods between Gloucester and all parts of the world. Standing on the upper deck we did get a tall-ish view over the lush, rolling countryside to the Forest of Dean and the Cotswolds. We headed through Saul Junction, and pressed on to Frampton-on-Severn, looking across the stretch of river where the notorious Bore

Back at the Elgar, there was time for a stroll before captain’s cocktails and dinner – pate with chutney; slow-cooked blade of beef; followed by summer fruit terrine, then cheeses and coffee and another diverting table quiz.

After a good night’s sleep, we carried on to Sharpness, still with its connection to the sea into the Bristol Channel, and a skilled U-turn was called for to start the return trip. This brought us back past the remains of the old Severn railway bridge, before we moored up to see the Purton Hulks – an astonishing site where redundant barges have been beached to form breakwaters and protect the vulnerable banks of the canal from the fierce tidal flows of the Severn Estuary.

TRAVEL Glass in hand, there was no quiz on our final night, but excellent live entertainment from swing and jazz duo Ain’t Misbehavin’ – an unexpected treat.

Aerial surveys have revealed at least 80 historic hulks in this nautical graveyard.

Then it was time to move on to the nearby Slimbridge Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre founded by Sir Peter Scott, seen as the birthplace of nature conservation.

It was easy to have a lively conversation over dinner, as for much of the trip there were only12 people on board, although there are berths for 22 in the 11 en-suite, outside cabins, as well as the live-in crew. It’s also worth noting at this stage that coffee and tea are available all day and night, and there’s also a daily happy hour in the bar from 6 – 8pm, with bargain wine and 20 per cent off all drinks.

A late, great night, and our last day dawned all too early, but then breakfast set us up for a sail to Saul Junction and the Cotswold Canals Trust Visitor Centre where enthusiasts Clive and Jill Field told of the splendid project to restore two historic waterways and connect the Severn to the Thames.

Then on board again for a lunch-on-themove as we headed back to the docks in the heart of Gloucester – timed to the second, like our departure, to negotiate both swing and lift bridges on the approach.

Time for goodbyes all round as skipper Nick spun the Elgin on its axis to moor up inch-perfect at Alexandra Quay.

Hands-on company chief Richard was soon on board to help make way for the afternoon arrivals for the next cruise down the canal.

Factbox David Graham was a guest of English Holiday Cruises aboard their 4-Star Hotel Boat ‘Edward Elgar’. He took a 4-day/3-night ‘Historic Canal’ cruise along the Gloucester-Sharpness canal.

Several canal cruises are available in October and April each year at special rates starting at £230pp for a weekend cruise.

The Edward Elgar also offers longer ‘mini-Rhine’ style cruises out of Gloucester on the River Severn from May to September, including a new 7-day ‘Severn Wonders’ cruise in 2016.

All cruises include 3 meals daily, wine with dinner, free-flow tea/ coffee, outside tours at every stop, one night of live entertainment, WiFi and more.

For a free brochure and bookings, call 01452-410411 or visit www.englishholidaycruises.co.uk

I was sorely tempted to ask him if there was room for a couple more.

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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John Torode

The Master Chef

BY A N G E L A K E L LY

IF ever there was a guest to whom you would be distinctly nervous at serving your home-made vegetable lasagne John Torode is probably it.

It’s not that the MasterChef judge and food expert would be automatically rude about your efforts – he’d probably be sparing in his remarks. It’s simply that he would only have to fix you with that so-familiar steely glare for you to realise that there was a chance your food might not pass his strict standards.

All of which is probably both what you would expect from a renowned foodie and from a high-profile cookery guru used to imparting the judgement of Solomon when it comes to individual would-be chefs and their creations.

But, of course, it’s also what helps make TV’s MasterChef and Celebrity MasterChef such compelling viewing. And what has

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Doing your own cookbook is a personal catalogue of life, and I’m very lucky to have done it. catapulted the likeable Aussie into the nation’s consciousness as the go-to expert opinion on good and bad dishes.

Born in Melbourne, John Torode’s early interest in cooking led him to work as an apprentice in restaurants around his home city. He began his cooking career formally at the age of 16 by attending catering college, and then – like many young and ambitious Antipodeans before him and since - moved to the UK in 1991.

A year later, he began working at Le Pont de la Tour and Quaglino’s as a sous chef for the Conran Group under Terence Conran. It’s also where he first met fellow MasterChef judge Greg Wallace, whose company supplied the vegetables for the restaurant.

John’s reputation grew swiftly and this, combined with an engaging manner, soon prompted him to become the regular chef on ITV’s This Morning show from 1996 until 2000.

It goes without saying that he’s a big fan of cooking from scratch, but I wondered how important he felt food was in bringing people generally - and the generations in particular together.

“Everyone in the world has to eat,” he stated. “Sitting with friends and family is vital. It is where conversation happens and knowledge is shared. It’s where values and morals are learnt. It’s important, really important.”

And what kinds of culinary expertise can be learned from older people? “With age comes wisdom and with wisdom comes calm,” he said. “The older the cook, the more confident and more knowledgeable they are.

“Just watch an old Chinese chef through the windows in China town and that will teach you more than you would ever think possible.”

John Torode with fans.

His 1998 cookery book The Mezzo Cookbook won the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Food Photography – something he is happy to accept as a highlight of his career so far. “Getting the chance to write a book is a pretty special thing,” he explained, “be it my first one at Mezzo or my latest My Kind of Food. Doing your own cookbook is a personal catalogue of life, and I’m very lucky to have done it.”

In 2000, John opened his first London restaurant, called Smiths of Smithfields. The BBC show MasterChef was being re-launched with an updated format, and Torode and Wallace were chosen as the new presenters. This entertaining combination helped create a winning formula and by 2011, the show had been sold to 25 countries.

Perhaps it was always the unscripted nature of the show, combined with the kitchen banter of Torode and Wallace, but viewers across the world were fascinated by what MasterChef had become. The spin-offs – Celebrity MasterChef and Junior MasterChef – also became hits and John continued his restaurateur success, opening another capital venue called The Luxe, near New Spitalfields Market.

Last year, he fronted John Torode’s Australia – the highest rating TV show of the year on UKTV Good Food Channel - retracing the flavours of his childhood, and this year he presented A Cook Abroad: John Torode’s Argentina for BBC2.

While he is now a familiar face on TV, I asked him how anglicised he had become after so many years living in the UK and what Australian traits he still retained.

“My brothers and Aussie mates think I sound like a pom!” he told me. “But I feel as Aussie as I always have. I love my Australian passport and, of course, the cricket and the rugby – where I will always side with the Aussies!”

As for how influential cookery programmes like MasterChef have been in improving the standard of British cookery, John Torode is very definite. “The more that people watch MasterChef and similar programmes, the more knowledge they have,” he added. “The knock-on effect is that the public become more demanding and worldly wise.

“I think the shows are quite influential. Restaurants and eateries of all kinds have sprung up everywhere in the UK, and the standard has to be high or they do not survive!”

So what makes a MasterChef winner? “Tenacity and real want,” explained John. “Being a good cook is one thing, but wanting to feed people without an ego is a rare thing and something all the MasterChef winners have had.

“They are people without egos, who love to watch people smile because their food is delicious.”

As to what culinary disasters the TV audiences doesn’t see, the famous presenter asserted: “None. You get to see everything – including Gregg’s dancing!”

And who has been your favourite Celebrity MasterChef contestant? “Now that would be a little unfair …. But I do, however, have a soft spot for Lisa Faulkner!”

As for what the future holds for him and whether he would like to appear in any other kind of TV programme, John was happy to elucidate. “To travel the world, discover and cook is what I want to do.

“So take me anywhere and point a camera in my face and I would be as happy as Larry! I have just got back from filming in Malaysia and that was awesome.”

And that tempting morsel of information about what comes next for our culinary hero has only whetted our appetites for future appearances of the man who has helped encourage thousands of would-be cooks in their own kitchens. Even when vegetable lasagne is on the menu.

John’s latest book is My Kind of Food: Recipes I Love To Cook at Home by John Torode, published by Headline on September 10 at £25.

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| 13

A Shed and a Fashion Show?

The Shed

For The Ladies

There’s something about Autumn which sends men scurrying to their sheds, with ready excuses of DIY.

With the new season well under way, it is time to treat yourself to a new wool coat, or thinking about that Christmas party you’ve never got anything to wear to.

With this in mind, The Mill Outlet named their latest menswear department The Shed. The shop has been fitted out using old pallets, scaffold poles and tyres, and is stocked with big high street brands Lambretta, Brave Soul and Maddox Street.

The result is a bright new store with a rustic appeal, aimed at those who remember their youth but still know how to look good. The first weeks of opening have seen a frenzy of scooter-loving customers old and new buying subtly mod apparel; outlet prices means t-shirts start at £7.99.

Start your shopping with a showcase of the best fashion from The Mill in the spectacular surroundings of Wakefield Cathedral.

Pride of place in The Shed is a top of the range Vespa GT, courtesy of Scooter Crazy in Huddersfield.

A fashion show with a cause is an even better reason to kick-start your winter wardrobe shopping. This annual event raises funds for both Yorkshire Cancer Research and the Cathedral itself, which is undergoing a multi-million pound renovation.

The models are ‘real’ women, many of whom have undergone treatment for cancer and are celebrating life after surgery without compromise.

Tickets for the show are £10 and may be purchased from The Mill’s ladieswear department on the first floor, Wakefield Cathedral Coffee Shop or by telephoning Margaret Palmer 07774 999 106/ Jenny Wright 01924 864 025. Tickets may be purchased on the door only if seats are available.

Wakefield Businesswoman of the Year and exApprentice star Claire Young will be the show compere.

NEW SEASON FASHION SHOW WAKEFIELD CATHEDRAL SAT 10TH OCTOBER 2:30PM

TICKETS ON SALE NOW SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS ALL PROCEEDS TO YORKSHIRE CANCER RESEARCH

WWW.THEMILLBATLEY.COM

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Changing Rooms

by Angela Kelly

TAKING a fresh look at our homes gives us the opportunity to re-evaluate lifestyle and try to improve it.

This can happen at any time in our lives but often when we have more time, like when we retire, or simply find that our daily routine is more home-based.

You may want to undertake major change like an EXTENSION. Building a CONSERVATORY can also add space and style to a home. There are some fabulous designs and deals around currently, but do look first at what you want from this extra space and communicate this properly to your chosen provider. You might also need planning permission or building control approval so it’s worth checking first on the Government website www.planningportal.gov.uk If you’re looking at revamping rather than rebuilding, interior designer Sharon Rodriguez suggests that you start at your front door and work forwards.

That means taking a hard look at your HALLWAY. “This is one part of the home we tend to forget about,” she says, “but it’s very important and reflects the rest of the interior. It should set a style for the rest of the property.”

It’s worth keeping your hallway light and bright. Narrow hallways can be opened up by using mirrors to give the illusion of doubling space, and they allow light to reflect back in.

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If you’ve got a large hallway, which can look cavernous and unwelcoming, Sharon suggests artwork and framed photos can be showcased to create an interesting and eye-catching feature. There also needs to be functional space – shelving, cupboards or a console table to store items – “this will break up the space and act as a focal point,” she says.

Consider the colour scheme here. A bold patterned wallpaper with a light-coloured backdrop (a feature wall) can look good in a hallway. Avoid dark colours generally unless you have a long, narrow hallway, and if you do and want to make it appear shorter, paint the short wall furthest away in a darker colour.

The hallway is a high traffic area so carpets aren’t always the best choice here. Try hard or wooden floor surfaces but soften them with a runner or rug, which can work well against plain-coloured walls.

The LOUNGE is often a central spot for day to day life but if you’re having a revamp and want to invest in new furniture, draw a rough floor- plan of your room first, advises Sharon, measuring furniture to ensure it fits. “Think about access and how you’re going to get into the room,” she adds. “This will save time and one big headache.”

Sharon also believes that most of us are too scared to try out colour and so often

end up with large amounts of neutral décor. “Using colour is about confidence,” she states. “Try using a colour wheel and/or paint manufacturers’ swatches to choose the right colour combination.

Colour inspiration comes from all sorts of sources – artwork, photographs, a favourite piece of fabric or nature.”

It’s also worth keeping in mind that colour looks different throughout the day and under artificial light. “Buy swatch pots and paint lining paper with your chosen colours and place them on the wall. Move around during different times of the day, and look at it under artificial lighting.”

If you’re choosing patterned wallpaper, match the pattern and place the two pieces side by side on the wall to see how it looks.

Paint radiators the same colour as the walls for a cohesive look. Alternatively, they can be boxed in if you don’t want them to show. And if you’re using pattern in fabrics or wallpaper, think about scale and colour continuity. Take a look at home interior magazines and see what is currently in favour when it comes to themes and designs.

“I love botanical designs,” says Sharon, “and they seem to be popular this year.

There are some lovely floral and leafy prints available to bring a fresh look to any room.”

HOME

Investing in new furniture will always change a room, but if you’re on a budget you can instantly refresh and update your lounge with new cushions and throws which can be colour-matched to your chosen décor.

“Neutral décor can be brought to life by layering different textures, adding rugs and using reflective surfaces such as glasstopped tables and mirrors which give a sense of space.”

Don’t dismiss buying second-hand furniture out of hand. Try flea markets, car boots or charity shops. “You can pick up some fabulous pieces here,” adds Sharon.

Existing pieces of furniture can also be updated and re-used with a lick of paint and new handles.

Window treatments depend on the style you want to create and space in and around the windows to hang or tie-back. If you don’t want to open and close curtains, window blinds might be more suitable.

However, curtains tend to insulate, absorb noise and dress the room.

Voile curtain panels are another option, and come in a great range of colours, allowing a nice, diffused light to enter the room. If you have a bay window, consider window seats and keep floor covering cohesive with your décor whether you’re choosing carpets, wooden floors or tiles.

If you love to collect items, display them in an organised way. White shelving with a bold background colour and lighting, possibly in a recess, accentuates a collection like glass.

The KITCHEN is probably the most important space in the home and needs to be functional. If you’re looking to install a new kitchen, consult a reputable design company who will cleverly design and maximise space and storage.

To update your kitchen units if they’re in good condition, try some new doors or paint existing ones. They could match or contrast with the colour of the walls, and new handles can quickly update them.

Back-splashes are an alternative to tiling and are stylish and easy to maintain, and worktops can be replaced without breaking the bank.

Ceramic tiles are popular in kitchens but Sharon suggests that trying vinyl or cork tiles can be more comfortable “especially if you spend a lot of time in the kitchen.”.

The DINING ROOM is best kept practical, particularly if it doubles as a study or office. Choose furniture that adapts, such as an extending dining table and folding

Wetroom & Walk-in Shower Specialists

chairs. Shelves and cupboards are perfect for display and storage, and add a pop of the colour red here and there – “It’s said to promote conversation and appetite!” adds Sharon.

If you’re investing in new units for your BEDROOM, make sure they suit your lifestyle and provide plenty of space and storage. Soft grey can be a restful and relaxing colour for bedrooms, with splashes of colour added for contrast in quilt covers, lampshades, rugs and draped curtains.

Table lamps add mood and ambience to this space.

And another place for relaxation is the BATHROOM. Soothing greens and blues are always a good choice here although keep sanitary ware white for a clean look.

If your bathroom is small, try using larger floor and wall tiles as they make the space look bigger (plain not patterned) as do mirrors or mirrored vanity cupboards.

“Slate tiles are a good choice in a bathroom because of their durability and slip-resistance, they’re also non-porous and warm. And don’t discount the use of artwork in the bathroom.” * For more advice email Sharon Rodriguez from Urbano at sharon.0022@hotmail.com

Great choices for the smallest room Thinking of updating your bathroom? Then take a look at the extensive showroom at Huddersfield’s Atlas Bathrooms of Lockwood.

With now even more choice in store, Atlas has invested heavily in the extensive showroom and now has even more displays of bath suites, showers and wet rooms to choose from. It now has one of the biggest displays of bathrooms and accessories in the Huddersfield area. Spread over two floors it has ranges from top manufacturers including Jacuzzi, Heritage, Roca and Ideal Standard. There is also plenty to suit all budgets with bathrooms and showers ranging in price from affordable to the luxurious end of the market.

There is also a wide choice of bathroom furniture and accessories along with a new display of Christy Towels, one of the UK’s longest established iconic brands. Atlas Bathrooms has recently been appointed an official stockist. He said: “We have something for all tastes and to suit all sizes of bathroom, from the very traditional to the very modern. Wet rooms are growing in popularity along with larger walk-in showers.” Atlas also has a great range of accessories which are sure to add the finishing touch.

Victoria Mill, Albert Street, Lockwood, Huddersfield Tel: 01484 547110 Fax: 01484 432037

For more information, look at the website www.atlasbathrooms.co.uk or ring 01484 547110.

Open:

Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm Saturday, 9am to 4pm

www.atlasbathrooms.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

Cook with John Torode!

‘Best Ever Roast Chicken’ and ‘Beef Rendang with Lemongrass and Ginger’ BEST EVER ROAST CHICKEN (CHOOK) Oh, oh, oh, I am the biggest sucker for chicken. I am an even bigger sucker for chicken that has a good stuffing. For those who like to cook delicious food but keep it simple, this is a gem, as the potatoes, stuffing and chicken are all ready to eat at once, and the juices left behind make the best-ever gravy.

Heat the oven to 180°C (gas 4). Chop all the herbs roughly and mix them with the softened butter, salt and pepper. Fill the chickens with your preferred stuffing and place onethird of the herb butter in the end cavity of each chicken so the butter melts inside the bird.

Place a high-sided roasting tin over a high heat and add the oil. Drop in the potatoes and shake well to coat them in oil. Put the chickens in with the potatoes, pushing them out of the way. Place the roasting tray in the oven and leave to cook for 35 minutes without opening the door.

Remove the tray from the oven and increase the temperature to 190°C (gas 5).

Turn the potatoes over and baste the birds well, spooning the pan juices over the breasts. Return to the oven and leave to cook for a further 40 minutes, at which point the chicken and potatoes should be done.

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SERVES 10 1 handful sage leaves 1 handful marjoram sprigs 2 branches thyme, leaves picked 100g softened butter 2 chickens, about 1.5kg each (your choice of stuffing 50ml olive oil 6 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks Salt and black pepper

rode John To

FOOD & DRINK

Image for illustrative purposes only

BEEF RENDANG WITH LEMONGRASS AND GINGER This is a Muslim dish from Sumatra in Indonesia. By the time the big pot of liquid has cooked down to a kind of beef in jam, the meat is fabulously tender and melting.

Shank is, for me, the very best cut to use here. The pot you use needs to be wide rather than deep, so that the liquid can evaporate as the beef cooks.

YOU WILL NEED: 2 lemongrass stalks 1/3 cup coriander seeds 1 tsp. cumin seeds 1 tsp. ground turmeric 4oz block coconut cream 3 large onions, minced 6 garlic cloves, chopped 6 fresh red chillies, seeds removed and chopped

2 thumb-sized pieces fresh ginger, peeled and chopped 2 bay leaves 3 lb. beef for stew, cut into 1-inch cubes 2 cans (14oz. each) coconut milk 2 cups strong veal or beef stock, heated Sticky (glutinous) rice for serving

Pound the lemongrass to a pulp using a mortar and pestle. Gently toast the coriander and cumin seeds with the turmeric in a dry frying pan until fragrant, then grind to a powder (or pound with the mortar and pestle).

In a wide pan (I use a cast-iron wok), heat the block of coconut cream until it melts—keep the heat low so it does not burn. Drop in the onions, garlic, chillies, ginger and pounded lemongrass. Cook gently until the onions have softened and the mixture starts to smell fragrant.

Add the ground spices and bay leaves and fry for a few more minutes until the mixture is really aromatic.

Add the meat and increase the heat so it browns well all over, stirring to coat with the spices. Add the coconut milk and bring to a boil, then add the hot stock. Turn the heat up to high and continue cooking, stirring occasionally. The sauce will reduce to a thick paste and then will become thick like lava, really coating the meat—this will take at least an hour. Serve the rendang with sticky rice.

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Planning for Retirement Retirement in 2015 means different things to different people with each perception as individual as they are.

They look on the lack of someone else’s superimposed routine, the unstructured days and the more relaxed lifestyle as halcyon days ahead. And, indeed, this is often the case for many people who have had the foresight to plan ahead to ensure that retirement gives you exactly what you want.

Many may have looked forward to retirement for years as the natural end to a satisfying career – or the welcome finish to a job they’ve hated.

Early financial planning may certainly be the key to that golden retirement, provided you take a realistic look at your day-to-day living expenses and ensure

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that you have enough money to cover everything.

It’s also worth, though, factoring in other, perhaps less obvious potential expenses, like needing transport if you’re not well enough to get around under your own steam, or having some extra available for unforeseen situations.

If you can, look at your living costs up to 10 years before you actually retire and allow for extra increased utilities, bills and possibly more frequent holidays. On the other hand, you can exclude bills like travel to and from work and, possibly, mortgage payments.

It’s worth adding your pensions together to see if there is a shortfall. Consult past providers or employers for up-to-date pension statements and get a forecast

place relating to how you can take your pension; again, go to the gov.uk site to find out more.

...plans and planning together as one or both of you enters this phase of your life is essential...

Anne Marie points out that, for couples “plans and planning together as one or both of you enters this phase of your life is essential, so that you can communicate your wishes, needs and desires effectively.”

Make an appointment with a specialist Independent Financial Adviser for advice on getting the most income out of your pensions. Either go on personal recommendation from someone you know well or go to the Association of Professional Advisers (APFA) to find one at www.apfa.net Consider your daily running expenses and see what you can shave off and still enjoy life. Look at where you live – do you want to downsize and is this more realistic financially? Get expert advice on these life-changing decisions at the Age UK website www.ageuk.org.uk

She advises planning for the potential challenges “but also plan for the pleasurable things in life so that you are making time for you to do what you want to do.”

Psychotherapist Anne Marie Alger warns that, although retirement is seen as a positive new life phase by some, for others there is a loss of role, loss of structure to the day, week or year, loss of financial security and a loss of work friendships, contact and companionship.

Talking about your concerns, your hopes, your feelings with loved ones, family and friends before actually retiring, during the transition and once you are embedded in retirement is vital.

“Although leaving work is supposed to remove us from the stress and anxiety, adverse effects can quickly increase, particularly if your social life is very much tied up with work,” she explains.

“Retirement can have a detrimental effect on both mental and physical health.

Indeed, there has been a drive towards Work Longer Live Healthier – a study illustrating the link between economic activity, health and Government policy, suggesting that in the long term, retirement can be ‘bad’ for your health.

of your State Pension through the Government’s pension site www.gov.uk/contact-pension-service See if you can save more, perhaps paying in more, and monitor whether your current savings are working hard enough.

Check out the new auto-enrolment scheme as it’s also usually worth starting.

Up to five years before retirement, look at moving any stock market investments, including pensions, to safer havens to avoid losing out in case of any last-minute falls. Check your National Insurance contributions are up to date, track down any old pensions or other accounts and start investigating Annuities.

Six months before retirement, check your final pension and how it will be paid to you. Major changes are now in

“What happens if you’re not ‘ready’ to finish work, and it feels enforced, or you don’t feel prepared? Does it raise a question of ‘who am I now if so much of your life has been tied up with your employment, your job role, your position, hand in hand with your confidence, your value and your self-worth?”

There are also the expectations of those around you to cope with now that you have “all this time on your hands.” Are you now perceived as a carer, a childcare provider, and will there be increased demands from family and friends about how you spend your time?

All these factors can become the everdarkening cloud that moves across your lovely, bright retirement sky and dims it substantially. However ….. we are back to planning here and how you can banish that cloud forever.

Anne Marie Alger Psychotherapist

Pets can often prove real friends in retirement. Dogs make sure you get some healthy exercise, although it’s worth being realistic about the size and type of dog you keep. Cats, birds and rabbits can also provide company, and a reason to get up and on with your routine which includes caring for them.

If you can’t have a pet at home or prefer not to, how about volunteering at a local animal shelter or dogs’ home? Volunteering generally is great in retirement because you not only get out of the house and meet new people but also genuinely give back to your local community. This may be in a charity shop or local hospital or as a volunteer regularly helping with children’s reading in school. Become a reading mentor through charity Beanstalk (formerly Volunteer Reading Help) at www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk or ring for more information on 0207 729 4087.

Taking up a new hobby, joining a walking group or learning a new sport like badminton or bowls are all positive possibilities now that you have the time. So why not just enjoy life?

by Angela Kelly WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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Brighter Financial Services

MARGARET IS BEWILDERED BY PENSIONS...

Margaret Rowbotham is 52 years old. She has worked in a stationery shop for the past 5 years but before this, worked for Social Services and Calming Places, a private nursing home, as a support worker, before the job became too much for her.

Margaret has a public sector final salary pension scheme.

She also has two private pension schemes which she took out when she was with Calming Places. She took out two when she was with Calming Places as she didn’t think she was paying enough into the first one. She has carried on paying into these two pensions since moving into retail.

Margaret enjoys her job but is thinking more about retirement. She is not sure whether she has the right pension arrangements and would like to take advice. She knows about financial advisers but is sceptical about the advice that she might receive—how does she know it will be right for her? She is also concerned that the adviser may find her arrangements too complicated and just try to sell her yet another pension.

Hasn’t she got enough already?

Margaret, like most of us, is unsure how much she actually will need in retirement so has no way of knowing whether her pensions are:•

Able to provide her with the income she will need

•

Performing as they should against other products on the market.

Even if it is that Margaret’s pensions are performing well and will give her want she needs in retirement, having more than one personal pension could be wasting money on costly administrative fees- money that could be invested in one high performing product.

An independent financial adviser will explore the whole of market to get the best yields for their customers with competitive administration charges.

Friendly advice is invaluable

Opportunity 2

Don’t rest on your laurels with final–salary pension schemes

So what should Margaret do?

Well she will still get an income from her pensions if she does nothing, but let’s just say that Margaret decides to explore her options.

Opportunity 1

Personal pensions need to return high yields and low administrative costs.

She seeks out the help of a financial adviser who explores opportunity 1 with her: Our pensions are investments.

There are two important things to consider with investments—our needs change over time and investments go up and down.

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Margaret will need the services of a specialist financial adviser with the necessary qualifications and who is authorised by the FCA to consider final salary pension transfer arrangements with their clients. She seeks out the services of a financial adviser who can explore opportunity 2 with her: There are very few reasons why, in the past, those with final salary pensions would consider moving their investment away from such a scheme and certainly no worthy financial adviser would ever suggest that this was appropriate. However, for those considering retirement now or who have a deferred benefit there are some very good reasons to take stock of opportunity 2.

Most final salary schemes transfer values make the assumption that the investment tends to be in Government gilt (debt) The chart below provides an example of how a final salary pension transfer value can be affected by gilt yield rates. If a transfer value is calculated using a low gilt rate the resulting transfer value is higher than it would be were the gilt rate high. Put simply, the lower the gilt rate, the higher the transfer value and vice versa.

In this example gilt rates going from 1.75% to 4.5% would result in a transfer value of nearly £100,000 less (high interest rates resulting in a lower transfer value)

Technically speaking, if Margaret was expecting to get an income of £8.4k per year from her final salary pension scheme she her current transfer value could be inflated by up to £100,000 due to low gilt yields, as they currently stand—but gilts may rise in the future meaning transfer values could lower in the future so this may be worth exploring now, to realise a more lucrative investment.

On a more personal level there are other reasons that Margaret may wish to consider transferring her pension: The Government’s new pension arrangements have given people the opportunity to pass their residual pension to their children. Margaret has one son who is 32 years old and lives alone. Currently her final salary pension will die with her. If she transfers it—her son will receive all of the residual money.

With her financial questions answered, Margaret is now free to pursue hobbies and stay active in later life Margaret is currently in good health but were she to become chronically unwell her husband and son may be better off with a lump sum of cash to help her as opposed to a monthly income. With a final salary scheme this would not be possible.

Through the right pension transfer arrangement it would.

There is much to ponder on with pensions—Margaret has done the right thing by taking advice to see what her options are and to make sure that she is not missing out on some valuable opportunities!

Brighter Financial Services LTD I N D E P E N D E N T

F I N A N C I A L

A D V I C E

We are a small, friendly, approachable firm of 4 IFA’s committed to providing robust financial advice to our clients, some of whom have been with us for over 20 years.

We are based in Sowerby Bridge and have clients from a wide geographical area—from Huddersfield and Calderdale to Tameside, Airedale and North Yorkshire.

Our advisers are highly trained and can help you with every aspect of financial planning, including the regulatory authority to carry out final-salary pension transfers (where in client’s favour to do so). Our services are as follows: Later Life Planning from pensions to health/income insurance Home ownership Specialist services –Pension wealth improvement assessments via switch or transfer

Contact us today for an informal chat, without obligation on 01422 832100 or e-mail us at hello@brighterfinancialservices.com.

We will be pleased to help you with your query.

Brighter Financial Services Ltd 66-68 West St, Sowerby Bridge, HX6 3AN

Brighter Financial Services Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA no. 531145.

The character in this article is purely fictitious and any similarities to actual people, purely coincidental and not intended.

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OUT & ABOUT

Ilkley Literature Festival 2-18 October 2015

Television stars along with award-winning international authors are set to appear at the 2015 Ilkley Literature Festival.

Headline speakers signed up for the packed programme of more than 230 events over 17 days in October include comedian Julian Clary, historian Simon Schama, actor Brian Blessed and poet Simon Armitage.

Father and son TV broadcasters Peter and Dan Snow will be discussing the Battle of Waterloo at the festival, which will run from October 2 to 18.

Novelists talking about their latest books will include Pulitzer Prize winner Jane Smiley and New York Times bestselling author Jami Attenberg.

Yorkshireman Brian Blessed will discuss his autobiography ‘Absolute Pandemonium’ on October 8 - the day of its release.

TV historian Simon Schama, professor of art History and history at Columbia University, will close the festival with a celebration of significant and historical portraits from Elizabeth I to Amy Winehouse.

Comedian and TV personality Julian Clary will speak about his first book for children ‘The Bolds.’

Festival director Rachel Feldberg, said: “Our festival isn’t just about reading, it’s about sharing experiences with authors from all over the world, giving us new insights into well-known stories; unearthing innovative discoveries in science and nature and finding new fiction favourites. The festival gives us all the opportunity to celebrate the diversity of literature and I’m always keen to encourage audience members to attend an event on an unfamiliar subject, try a new author or to simply get together with friends and enjoy the festival atmosphere.”

Tickets will be on sale online and through the box office on 01943 816714 from September 1. The full programme of events is available at www.ilkleyliteraturefestival.org.uk

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Grassington Dickensian Festival Saturdays' 5th,12th and 19th December 2015. 11am - 5pm

For three Saturdays before Christmas, Grassington travels back in time for the annual Dickensian Festival. Visitors are treated to a glorious array of sights, tastes and smells from a bygone era.

The village is adorned in Christmas lights, the square and streets come alive with a traditional market with shopkeepers and villagers dressed in Victorian costume.

Visitors can revel in delight at the musicians, dancers, street entertainers and exhibitions of traditional country crafts.

Visit www.grassington.uk.com for more information and for all enquiries please contact the Dickensian Co-ordinator on: dickensian@grassington.uk.com

The Winter's Tale

Sensational Sixties Experience

The Victoria Theatre Halifax Saturday 10 October, 7.30pm In the Main Auditorium RETURNING BY HUGE POPULAR DEMAND Without doubt the most explosive 60s show touring the UK. This is the must see 60s extravaganza for 2015. Original classics performed by 5 of the most influential artistes of the 60s. Starring Chris Farlowe, Hermans Hermits, Steve Ellis (Voice of Love Affair) New Amen Corner, Union Gapuk. Hosted by Alan Mosca from Freddie & The Dreamers.

Timeless classics such as, I'm Into Something Good, Out Of Time, Everlasting Love, Bend Me Shape Me, Young Girl plus many more.

Step back in time and relive the past during an evening true to the 60s when pop music was at its very best.

The Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP 13-17 October 2015

BOOK EARLY TO GUARANTEE YOUR SEAT!

Shakespeare’s rich, romantic fable of jealousy, love and redemption is brought to the stage by Northern Broadsides (An August Bank Holiday Lark, The Grand Gesture, She Stoops to Conquer), whose charismatic cast of actor-musicians will warm the heart and lift the spirits.

* Prices inclusive of a £1 Theatre Support Fee when booking via the box office and an additional £1.10 booking fee if booking online

King Leontes falsely accuses his Queen of infidelity with his closest friend. He proclaims their newborn daughter a bastard and condemns the innocent to death. But the child, Perdita, survives.

What follows is a beautiful and beguiling love story where the cold hand of winter gives way to the joyful vibrancy of spring, culminating in forgiveness, love and happiness.

Let Northern Broadsides’ daringly theatrical story-telling transport you from the dark court of a jealous king to the bright sunshine of a rustic festival, where country girls sing saucy songs and a Prince can utter marriage vows to a lowly shepherd’s daughter. www.thelbt.org/Winters-Tale

Tickets: £26.50 - £27.60* and £24.50 £25.60*

Visit www.calderdale.gov.uk/victoria

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK & FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

GET IN TOUCH CALL 01204 860 194 artwork@mcgrathmedia.co.uk www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

2Faced Dance

The Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP Tuesday 20 October 2Faced Dance make their Huddersfield debut with a new double bill of exhilarating, intricate works exploring the lives and minds of a group of men through a series of fast-paced snapshots performed by a company of six worldclass dancers.

Hairspray: The Broadway Musical

The Victoria Theatre Halifax Tuesday 3 - Saturday 7 November Main Stage, 7.15pm, Saturday matinee 2.15pm

By turns gentle and frenzied, MILK NIGHT

by Frantic Assembly's Eddie Kay finds a group of men struggling with the loss of the women in their lives.

Huddersfield Musical Theatre Company shakes and shimmies back to the dawn of the sixties with the toe-tapping, feelgood, multi award-winning musical adaptation of the classic John Waters film.

www.thelbt.org/Dreaming-Code

Ben Fogle: Call of the Wild

Tracy Turnblad is a big girl with a big heart and even bigger hair. She dreams of becoming a dancing star on a local TV show and overturning its segregation policy. All without denting her 'do.

Presented by Speakers from the Edge

With songs like Good Morning Baltimore and You Can't Stop the Beat, the music, dancing and sheer energy of this joyful show will have you twisting all the way home.

The Victoria Theatre Halifax Thursday 15 October, 7.30pm In the Main Auditorium

Kirklees Light Railway Halloween Ghost Trains

Friday 30th October, Saturday 31st October & Sunday 1st November 2015 Dare you climb aboard our Halloween Ghost Train?

Pop along for a spine-tingling, hair-raising ghost train journey to our Haunted Woods.

Make sure you keep a close look out for creatures lurking in the dark and things will go bump in the night!

Ghost Train - Travel to the Haunted Woods where you will see creatures of the night throughout your journey. Watch out for zombies at the woods! Please be aware that ghosts and ghouls will approach the train.

Carriage of Doom - Try your hand at arts and crafts in our haunted carriage. If you're feeling extra brave, why not test your fear with our surprise boxes - you never know what will be lurking!

How to book

Online through the website at www.kirkleeslightrailway.com Telephone the office on 01484 865727 In person at Clayton West ticket office (during railway operating hours only) Please note: This event is not suitable for children under 3 years!

Ben Fogle has rowed the Atlantic Ocean, crossed Antarctica on foot, run across the Sahara and crossed the Empty Quarter on camel. He has presented numerous hit programmes on the BBC, ITV and Channel 5 including New Lives in the Wild, Extreme Dreams and Through Hell and High Water. He has written six Sunday Times bestseller books and is an ambassador for WWF, Medecins Sans Frontier, Tusk, Centrepoint and the Princes Trust, a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and patron of The Royal Parks Foundation.

In Call of the Wild, Ben will recount how the self-confessed urbanite became drawn to, and so enamoured with, adventure, travel and the harsh challenges associated with a life in the wilderness, from his first adventures travelling across South America as a younger man, to some of the toughest trials known to man. Call of the Wild will be an audio/visual supported show.

Ben Fogle Tickets: £22 - £23.10* (Discounts available) * Prices inclusive of a £1 Theatre Support Fee if booking via the box office and an additional £1.10 booking fee if booking online Visit www.calderdale.gov.uk/victoria

Tickets: £18 - £5 + selected concessions Visit www.calderdale.gov.uk/victoria

Call of the Wild

The Victoria Theatre Halifax Friday 4 - Sunday 6 December Main Stage, Friday 7.30pm, Saturday 2.15pm & 7.30pm, Sunday 2.15pm James Seabright and Climar Productions Adapted from the Frank Capra film by Tony Palermo.

Alone on a bridge on Christmas Eve, his dreams dashed by big business and small-town scandal, idealist George Bailey decides that the world would be better off without him. Or would it? It falls to hapless guardian angel Clarence Odbody to try and save him.

The magical story of Frank Capra's iconic film is retold as a radio play, complete with sound effects created live on stage.

This loving tribute to the golden era of the wireless is a fresh and timely take on a heartwarming festive classic.

Its premiere in London last Christmas played to packed houses and was a Guardian Critic's Choice.

Tickets: £19 - £10 / Under 26s £7 / Kirklees Passport holders £3 off Visit www.calderdale.gov.uk/victoria

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| 31

Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Halifax, Huddersfield & District Branch The Twilight Scheme

E.A.R.S

The Twilight Scheme has been set up to fund the medical treatment of our elderly cats and dogs before they are re-homed. If you are unable to adopt an elderly animal but would like to help, why not join The RSPCA Twilight Scheme to help provide our elderly animals with essential veterinary care?

Elderly Animal Rehoming Scheme

The RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield and District Branch have developed the EARS Scheme to assist with the re homing of elderly dogs and cats (10 years +.) These animals enter our centre often due to their owner’s ill health or death, but few prospective adopters want to take on such an animal, mainly because of the possible financial implications.

Please contact enquiries@rspcahalifaxandhuddersfield.org.uk for information on the scheme and how to donate.

The Scheme Adopters will pay £5.00 per month to the Halifax, Huddersfield and District Branch which will entitle them to the following benefits: •

A free booster vaccination and health check once a year

•

Free routine worming tablets and discounted flea treatment

•

All current and future medication will be offered at a discounted price

• •

WINNER OF THE MARINA ARNSBY AWARD Presented to the branch for the most innovative re homing scheme

Would you like to become one of our fantastic fostering team?

•

Prescription diets will be offered at a discounted price

24 hour emergency phone in case the adopter has a personal emergency

•

Discount grooming from Lara at Warilda Grooming Salon

Euthanasia free at RSPCA Animal Centre

•

Discount cremation service

•

20% discount for surgical procedures and emergencies(at participating vets)

•

Immediate return for re homing via the scheme should an owner be unable to continue looking after an animal.

•

Transport to our clinic where necessary

•

Grants for emergency treatment/ elective surgery dependant on the buoyancy of the Scheme

•

Emergency cover if an owner is hospitalised

•

Access to our Animal Centre vet during routine clinic times at £5.00 per consultation

All dogs and cats will be fully vaccinated, de flea, wormed, microchip, neutered, vet checked and fully temperament assessed before re homing.

If you are interested in these Schemes and would like to know more please contact ANNETTE BAVERSTOCK at the Animal Centre on 01422 365628 or email annettebaverstock@rspcahalifaxandhuddersfield.org.uk 32 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Foster Homes Urgently Needed

A large amount of animals come through our Centre doors each year which require fostering. From a single puppy to pregnant cats, we often call on our fosterers to help out with the temporary care of animals.

Fosterers are provided with everything they need including medical treatment.

All we ask in return is for you to love and care for your foster animal until they are able to come back to the Centre for re homing. EARS animals stay in foster care until they are adopted.

RSPCA Animal Centre

Wade Street, Halifax HX1 1SN.

Tel: (01422) 365628 www.50plusmagazine.co.uk www.rspca-halifaxandhuddersfield.org.uk Registered Charity No. 225575

HALLOWEEN FAIR SATURDAY 31ST OCTOBER

Halifax, Huddersfield & District Branch

Registered Charity No. 225575

10.30am - 2.30pm Maurice Jagger Centre Winding Road, Halifax

(Next door to RSPCA Animal Centre)

Stalls including:-

Gifts - Tempting Treats - Games Presents for your pets & much more!

Lunch & Refreshments available

We Need Your

Donations...

All your donations will be used to raise

money for our Animal Centre in Halifax where we rehabilitate and rehome animals that are in need of our help.

OUR SHOPS...

ED DS RAIS ALL FUN TO HELP WILL GO ANIMALS R CARE FO ENTRE C IN OUR

HALIFAX

Queens Hall, Queens Road Halifax HX1 3NS. Tel: 01422 362461 28 Union Street Halifax HX1 1PR. Tel: 01422 343858

BRIGHOUSE

We will also be displaying all the winners & entrants of our Photographic Competition

53 Commercial Street Brighouse. HD6 1AF Tel: 01484 714571

HUDDERSFIELD

www.rspca-halifaxandhuddersfield.org.uk

6 Byram Street Huddersfield HD1 1BX. Tel: 01484 469402

CHRISTMAS OPEN DAY Sunday 6th December

RSPCA ANIMAL CENTRE, WADE STREET, HALIFAX HX1 1SN A festive family day including stalls, games, meet the animals and even a chance to do a bit of shopping for your stocking fillers!

37 Trinity Street Huddersfield HD1 4DL. Tel: 01484 426181

SOWERBY BRIDGE

6 Regents Parade, Wharf Street Sowerby Bridge HX6 2EH Tel: 01422 835525

HEBDEN BRIDGE Halifax, Huddersfield & District Branch

Registered Charity No. 225575

You can also give a great gift to the animals in our Centre by donating toys and treats in our 'Animal Stockings'.

A gift from you will help give the animals a really special Christmas!

14 Bridge Gate Hebden Bridge HX7 8EX Tel: 01422 842145

ELLAND

19 Southgate, Elland HX5 0BW Tel 01422 378236

Upcoming RSPCA events...

ALSO FEATURING OUR CATNAPPED EVENT!

Sunday 4th October Animal Blessing Service Halifax Minster

Did you know you can help the RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield & District Branch for free when you use easyfundraising?

nk Thayou!

PLEASE SUPPORT US ON EASYFUNDRAISING.ORG.UK It's so simple, do your online shopping and donate to us without costing you a penny

Just visit

easyfundraising.org.uk/rspcahalifax

October - Annual Photo Competition Saturday 31st October Autumn Fair Maurice Jagger Centre, Halifax

Sunday 6th December RSPCA Animal Centre Open Day

WITH OVER 2,700 RETAILERS TO CHOOSE FROM

www.rspca-halifaxandhuddersfield.org.uk WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK | 33

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Light

up a

Life

Registered Charity No. 512987

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| 35

• work in environments where there’s loud music, such as a nightclub • regularly listen to music at a high volume through headphones Hearing loss can also occur suddenly after exposure to an exceptionally loud noise, such as an explosion. This is known as acoustic trauma.

Other types of sensorineural hearing loss Sensorineural hearing loss occurs if the sensitive hair cells inside the cochlea are damaged, or as a result of damage to the auditory nerve (which transmits sound to the brain). In some cases, both may be damaged.

Hearing loss caused by age and exposure to loud noises are both types of sensorineural hearing loss.

Vastly improve your quality of life for years to come Hearing loss is a common problem and many of us will experience some hearing difficulty as we get older. But this isn’t something we have to suffer with and there are many ways in which to seek help if you feel you need it.

Causes of hearing loss Hearing loss is the result of sound signals not reaching the brain. There are two main types of hearing loss, depending on where the problem lies.

• Sensorineural hearing loss is caused by damage to the sensitive hair cells inside the inner ear or damage to the auditory nerve. This occurs naturally with age or as a result of injury.

• Conductive hearing loss happens when sounds are unable to pass from your outer ear to your inner ear, often because of a blockage such as earwax or glue ear.

These causes are explained below.

Age Age is the biggest single cause of hearing loss. Hearing loss that develops as a result of getting older is often known as age-related hearing loss or presbycusis.

Most people begin to lose a small amount of their hearing from

around 40 years of age. This hearing loss increases as you get older. By the age of 80, most people have significant hearing problems.

As your hearing starts to deteriorate, high-frequency sounds, such as female or children’s voices, may become difficult to hear. It may also be harder to hear consonants such as “s”, “f” and “th”. This can make understanding speech in background noise very difficult.

Loud noises Another common cause of hearing loss is damage to the ear from repeated exposure to loud noises over time.

This is known as noise-induced hearing loss, and it occurs when the sensitive hair cells inside the cochlea become damaged.

You’re at higher risk of developing noise-induced hearing loss if you: • work with noisy equipment, such as pneumatic drills or compressed-air hammers

36 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Sensorineural hearing loss can also be caused by: • the genes you inherit – some people may be born deaf or become deaf over time because of a genetic abnormality • viral infections of the inner ear – such as mumps or measles • viral infections of the auditory nerve – such as mumps or rubella • Ménière’s disease – where a person suffers with vertigo, spells of hearing loss, tinnitus and the feeling of a blockage in the ear • acoustic neuroma – a non-cancerous (benign) growth on or near the auditory nerve • meningitis – an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord • encephalitis – inflammation of the brain • multiple sclerosis – a neurological condition affecting the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) • a head injury • an autoimmune condition • malformation of the ear • stroke – where the blood supply to the brain is cut off or interrupted Some treatments and medicines, such as radiotherapy for nasal and sinus cancer, certain chemotherapy medicines or certain antibiotics can also damage the cochlea and the auditory nerve, causing sensorineural hearing loss.

People with diabetes, chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease are also at increased risk of hearing loss.

Sensorineural hearing loss is permanent and hearing aids are often required to improve hearing in these cases.

Causes of conductive hearing loss Conductive hearing loss is usually caused by a blockage, such as having too much ear wax, a build-up of fluid in the ear (glue ear), or an ear infection.

Conductive hearing loss can also be caused by: • a perforated eardrum – where the eardrum is torn or has a hole in it

Hearing aids If you have hearing problems, you may be able to wear a hearing aid. About 1.4 million people regularly use hearing aids in the UK, and many more would benefit from them.

A hearing aid is an electronic device that consists of a microphone, an amplifier, a loudspeaker and a battery. It increases the volume of sound entering your ear, so you can hear things more clearly.

The microphone picks up sound, which is made louder by the amplifier. Hearing aids are fitted

with devices that can distinguish between background noise, such as traffic, and foreground noise, such as conversation.

Modern hearing aids are very small and discreet, and can often be worn inside your ear.

Hearing aids help improve hearing, but don’t give you your hearing back.

They’re suitable for most people, but may be less effective for people with profound hearing impairment or certain conditions. Your GP or audiologist (hearing specialist) can advise you about whether a hearing aid is suitable for you.

• otosclerosis – an abnormal growth of bone in the middle ear which causes the inner hearing bone (the stapes) to be less mobile and less effective at transmitting sound • damage to the hearing bones from injury, a collapsed ear drum or conditions such as cholesteatoma • swelling around the eustachian tube – caused by jaw surgery or radiotherapy for nasal and sinus cancer • malformation of the ear • Eustachian tube dysfunction • something becoming trapped in the ear (a foreign body) Conductive hearing loss is usually temporary and can often be treated with medication or minor surgery.

How hearing loss is treated depends on the underlying cause of the condition.

Hearing loss that occurs when sounds are unable to pass into the inner ear (conductive hearing loss) is often temporary and treatable.

For example, earwax build-up can be removed by drops, a syringe or suction. Hearing loss caused by a bacterial infection can be treated with antibiotics. Surgery can be used to drain a fluid build-up, repair a perforated eardrum, or correct problems with the hearing bones.

However, hearing loss caused by damage to the inner ear or to the nerves that transmit sound to brain (sensorineural hearing loss) is permanent.

If your hearing is impaired, treatment can improve your hearing and quality of life.

Deafness? Noisy work environment?

You could be entitled to Compensation - No Win, No Fee Multi Lingual Service, (Urdu, Punjabi, Hindi, Polish and English) • Free hearing test in the comfort of your own home • Home Visits • No Win No Fee

As part of your claim:*

Claim: The most advanced modern hearing aids (and replacements) Claim: Hearing Aid Batteries for life Claim: Deafness Counselling Claim: Tinnitus Masking tools *Terms and Conditions Apply

Caring for our local community

Tel: 01422 356633 24 hour Helpline: 0800 432 0122

4 Wards End, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 1BX

www.benjaminrobertssolicitors.co.uk help@benjaminrobertssolicitors.co.uk @benrobertssols BenjaminRobertsSolicitors

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 37

As the only adult Hospice in Calderdale we provide the highest standard of specialist palliative and end of life care to those suffering from active, progressive and lifelimiting illnesses; and furthermore provide support for their friends and family.

As a charity we look to our local community for support and without it we simply would not be here.

Every single time we can soothe someone's pain, share their joys and triumphs, ease their breathlessness and sickness, listen to their fears, and help them enjoy laughter, it is because you care enough to help.

For more information on the services we provide, our fundraising events or the volunteering opportunities we have available contact the team today, we would love to hear from you!

Did you know?

• Almost 10% of adults in Calderdale will spend the last days of their life in our care • Although our services are provided at no cost to our patients it costs £3.5 million each year to keep the Hospice open, which means that we need to raise £280 every hour • For every £1 donated, 85p is spent on direct patient care • We are supported by over 500 volunteers, who outnumber our paid staff by 5 to 1 • By taking part in our lottery our supporters helped to raise £150,000 for the Hospice in 2014 • Our 12 charity shops currently raise over half a million pounds profit per year

Call 01422 387121, email fundraising@overgatehospice.nhs.uk or visit www.overgatehospice.org.uk

Because you care, we can Registered Charity No: 511619

38 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Light up a Life 2015 The Christmas season is often a time for thinking about others Here at Overgate we would like to invite you to dedicate a light on our Light Up A Life tree as a tribute to those treasured people in your thoughts at this special time of the year.

Dedicating a light on our tree is a unique and very personal way to remember someone who you may not be spending Christmas with this year.You can also dedicate a light as a special message at Christmas time -- as a tribute to a friend or family member.The lights will shine around Calderdale as a very poignant beacon to celebrate those special people who have helped to light up your lives.

Why Karen is supporting Overgate's Light up a Life...

Never would I have thought that last Christmas, would be so different to this Christmas. Mum always enjoyed Christmas it is such a special time of the year, the excitement, the choosing of gifts and the family coming together, playing games and telling dad off because he had one too many glasses of wine!This year I will be supporting light up a life because I know how she and we as a family are so indebted to the Hospice for the love and care that was provided through Mums short illness, also thinking about mum and the wonderful legacy she left behind when she died.

Help us to light the tree with special wishes for treasured people ...

Overgate Hospice would like to invite you to be part of their Light Up A Life Appeal 2015 Halifax Minster on Sunday 29th November at 2.00pm.

St Mary's Church, Todmorden on Sunday 6th December at 4:00pm.

Overgate Hospice on Sunday 6th December at 4.00pm.

Overgate Hospice on Thursday 17th December at 6.30pm.

Keeping your memories burning bright lightup.overgatehospice.org.uk www.overgatehospice.org.uk 01422 387121 Registered Charity No: 511619

Supported by

Have you reported your changes?

Council tax reduction or housing benefit Report a change of circumstances If you receive council tax reduction and/ or housing benefit you must tell us straight away if your circumstances change.

If you do not tell us within 21 days depending on the circumstances you may be fined £70, or your benefit amount could be affected.

Changes we need to know about include:

• changes to your income or capital • someone moving into, or out of your household • changes to income or capital belonging to anyone in your household • moving home, or into a different room if you live in a shared property • changes to the amount of rent you pay

You can report your change online at: www.kirklees.gov.uk/changecircumstance

Unregulated Will Writing Did you know that anybody can call themselves a “Will Writer”?

This is a deeply concerning issue for the Private Client Team here at Ramsdens as thousands of people are putting themselves at risk of being cheated by unscrupulous salespeople who offer to write their wills but who are not adequately qualified, trained nor insured.

A recent survey showed that 67% of clients wrongly believed that all Will writers are solicitors and 82% of the 1000 people polled thought that training and qualifications are required before someone can become a Will Writer.

David Sinclair, a Director of Solicitors for the Elderly said “Will writers need no training and they aren’t regulated so if you choose a Will writing company to do your Will you are taking a huge risk.”

Jodie Gajic from Ramsdens Private Client Team and also a full member of Solicitors for the Elderly comments “The number of horror stories from clients who have used a Will Writer is on the rise. It can be very costly to sort out after you have gone and your family are left to pick up the pieces”.

who often apply high-pressure selling techniques, offering wills for a low fee then selling other services such as transferring a home into a trust to avoid care fees.”.

Ramsdens Solicitors have ten offices throughout West Yorkshire and our Private Client team are an accredited member of the Law Society’s Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme (WIQS).

This shows that we follow best practice procedures to meet the highest standards of technical expertise and client service in providing tailored wills and probate advice to consumers.

Will writers often claim that they are cheaper than solicitors but research carried out by Which? Magazine found that the average price of a Will from a Solicitor is £130 and from a will writer is £107. Professionals such as Solicitors and Legal Executives are regulated, have relevant qualifications, undergo continual training and must be insured and provide redress if things go wrong. Given the protection you get by making a Will with a regulated professional, the small difference in price is well worth it.

Jodie Gajic further comments “People are all too easily fooled by the advertisements of Wills from £50. Once they actually get in front a Will Writer this cost will dramatically rise. Many people make Wills in their senior years and are targeted by Will writing companies

We are highly recommended by the Legal 500 and we have members of our team who are members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE). We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your needs and we are also happy to review any existing will you may have to ensure that it still meets with your requirements.

For more information please call Jodie Gajic on 01484 558054 or email jodie.gajic@ramsdens.co.uk

01484 821 500 www.ramsdens.co.uk WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 41

PROVIDING

chemists

SERVICES

SERVING HUDDERSFIELD FOR OVER 25 YEARS

Branches Near You...

42 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

• Marsh

Tel: 01484 533731

• Salendine Nook

Tel: 01484 657633

• Bradley

Tel: 01484 428646

• Lockwood

Tel: 01484 532169

• Honley

Tel: 01484 661818

• Elmwood H.C.

Tel: 01484 681069

• Holmfirth

Tel: 01484 683945

• Head Office

Tel: 01484 300444

Our vision is for everyone to have the opportunity to have a place they can call

Stonewater manages and owns more than 30,000 homes across England and we have one of the UK’s largest development programmes to help meet the rising demand for housing Stonewater was formed in January 2015 from the merger of Jephson and Raglan Housing Associations.

We are one of the UK’s most significant social housing providers, both in terms of the properties we own, and geographic spread.

Our mission is to offer quality homes and services for people whose needs are not met by the open market.

THREADNEEDLE COURT Rent : £96.24

SAVILE COURT Rent: £101.86

COPLEY MILL HOUSE Rent: £105.44

1 bedroom sheltered accommodation with support services available if required Careline provided Common room facilities Guest room Laundry Quiet room Regular social activities

1 bedroom sheltered accommodation with support Careline provided Common room facilities Guest room Laundry Regular social activities

1 bedroom sheltered accommodation with support services available if required Careline provided Common room facilities Guest room Laundry Hairdressing salon Regular social activities

home.

King Cross, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 3PF

By investing in technology and new approaches, we continually improve our services and meet the aspirations of our customers.

Queen Street, Ravensthorpe, Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, WF13 3BT

Copley Village, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX3 0UY

For more information on our homes call the Homes Team on 01422 373 855 or email northhomes@stonewater.org Charity numbers: 20558R / 19412R / 18964R / 27696R / 31527R.

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| 43

Locala HomeCare, a homecare provider in Huddersfield, was launched in July 2013 and provides a high quality, personalised service.

We are a people-focused business, from our hands-on managers who have local knowledge and experience in the areas we serve to our committed, compassionate home care assistants who do what they do because they care.

Our philosophy is that every care plan should be tailor-made to the individual’s needs, not one that’s the closest fit.

We are regulated by the independent Care Quality Commission (CQC) which sets stringent quality and safety standards for the management and operation of care services. Information about the CQC can be found at www.cqc.org.uk where you can read our latest inspection report and compare our performance against other providers. Here’s what the Care Quality Commission inspectors said in their last report: “We spoke with one person who used the service and one relative. Both people we

spoke with told us the person receiving the service received good care from staff who knew them well. The relative we spoke with told us their relative received the care they required to meet their personal needs. For example, daily record logs identified that carers stayed with the person who used the service for the allocated amount of time and care had been provided as detailed in the person’s individual plan”.

Wherever possible our aim is to help our service users retain their independence whilst focusing on their specific needs.

This has been the driving philosophy behind Locala HomeCare from the beginning. We are delighted that the care we provide has been officially recognised to be of the highest quality by the CQC. The philosophy behind Locala HomeCare comes from the years of experience behind the people at Locala Community Partnerships, a community interest company – a type of social enterprise – which provides NHS community

"The last few months of her life were made significantly more bearable by the support. Using a regular team of carers to deal with individual clients in the way you provided is the optimum way of creating an atmosphere of trust and mutual understanding."

“Carers are very sociable, caring and consistent.”

"I feel that I have to put pen to paper to thank Locala for the kindness, care and support that they have shown to me over the past few week since coming out of hospital. I would like to sat a special thank you to the girls I am most truly grateful"

healthcare services in and around Kirklees.

Locala HomeCare is a subsidiary company with the same values-driven approach and the belief that the patient or service user should always be at the centre of all that we do.

Take that first step and find out how we can help you promote your independence, in your own home, with services tailored to suit your own needs.

“Excellent carers.”

Please contact a member of our experienced team for further information on 0303 3308820 | www.locala-homecare.org.uk

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

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

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s

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holidays | HEALTH & FITNESS | HOME & GARDEN | CELEBRITIES | FOOD & DRINK & MORE...

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Helping you ke

If you think our carers can provide the right care for you and you would like to discuss our service please contact HomeCare Coordinators on 030333 08820.

Or if it would be easier you can email us on...

enquiries@locala-homecare.org.uk You can also find us at www.locala-homecare.org.uk /locala-homecare @locala_homecare WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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Affordable Funeral Service

Losing a loved one can be one of life's most upsetting and distressing times. We go out of our way to help ease the worries where funeral arrangements are concerned.

Not only involved with losing a loved one is the emotional upset, but it can also be a time of financial worry and strain and we not only lend a sympathetic ear but also an affordable funeral service too.

Or maybe you see not the need for an elaborate funeral and want only a simple, low key occasion without all the fuss.

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Personal Family Touches We strongly believe that a funeral service for a loved one should be as personal and unique as they were and we will do everything possible to ensure that all wishes are carried out to make things easier on the day.

Be it that family members would like to carry the coffin or perhaps certain members would like to speak within the funeral service. We encourage family involvement and are more than happy to discuss all options possible.

Serving all areas

Affordable without comprominsing on care.

If we can help please call for an informal chat and advice

Affordable

Funeral Ser vice

local caring independent funeral director

Low Fuss Funeral - £1650

Bespoke Funeral - £1800

• The payment of a cremation fee

• The payment of a cremation fee

• The payment of the Doctor's fees

• The payment of the Doctor's fees

• The payment of the Minister's fees

• The payment of the Minister's fees

• The conveyance of your loved one into our chapel of rest

• The conveyance of your loved one into our chapel of rest

• The provision of an oak-effect coffin and interior of your choice

• The provision of an oak-effect coffin and interior of your choice

• The arranging and conducting of the funeral

• The arranging and conducting of the funeral

• The provision of the hearse and necessary staff on the day of the funeral

• The provision of the hearse and necessary staff on the day of the funeral • The viewing of your loved one at our traditional chapel of rest

ALL OTHER FUNERAL REQUIREMENTS UNDERTAKEN AFFORDABLY

• The leaving from a home address on the day of the funeral before proceeding to the crematorium

Springhead Funeral Service

7/9 Stainland Rd, Halifax (opposite Andy Thorntons)

Tel: 01422 327 382

Bradley Funeral Service 9 Copthorne Square, Bradley, Huddersfield

Tel: 01484 534 488

Pre-Paid Funerals

Golden Leaves Funeral Plans WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK | 47

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