KIRKLEES & CALDERDALE ISSUE 57

SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2018

KIRKLEES & CALDERDALE EDITION 57

Nathan Outlaw

SHARE RECIPES FROM HIS NEW BOOK

Jennie Bond EXPLORES SINGAPORE

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TWITTER

inside

Twittering on With Angela Kelly Commonsense on our NHS is long overdue WE appear to be a nation that is quite comfortable with not bothering to turn up for our hospital appointments.

JENNIE BOND

DISCOVERING SINGAPORE 6-7

HOME

BRING THE SUNSHINE INTO YOUR HOME 13-14

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CREATIVE WAYS TO FRESHEN YOUR HOME 16

How else can you explain eight million missed outpatient appointments last year at an average cost of £120 each?

That meant £1 billion lost to our underfire and under-funded NHS. And it’s the patients who have caused that loss!

It seems crackers to me. Like shooting yourself in the foot several times and then complaining that your foot’s a bit sore.

According to NHS England, that money could have funded almost a million cataract operations or a quarter of a million hip replacements. At a time when people may have to wait ridiculously long times – often in pain and with a severely restricted lifestyle – for these procedures it seems a national scandal.

Asking people to use our health services responsibly, though, seems like a cry in the wilderness. People with coughs and colds rock up at A & E, filling waiting rooms, using resources and generally clogging up a system plainly not meant for such trivial ailments when a quick trip to the local pharmacist could get them sorted in no time.

We’ve also never had more medical help available to us at the end of a phone or online. Advice and guidance is there for all who ring the 111 services and GP surgeries are now far more streamlined to deal with the most serious cases first.

NATHAN OUTLAW'S FISH KITCHEN 20-22

Last year, more than nine million people were sent home from A & E with just guidance and advice. Even doing this takes up important working hours and means the message is still not getting across.

There are regular arguments in favour of charging people for appointments as incentive to turn up but equal counterarguments that this hits the worst off in the population. And it still may not work.

In this 70th year of the NHS, its Chief Nurse Professor Jane Cummings is urging everyone to use the NHS properly. This includes cancelling appointments in good time to free them up for others – and being realistic about our ailments and not going to A & E unless we really do have an accident or an emergency.

Surely the time has come for genuine commonsense on this one?

Sorry but not loving Love Island at all AM I wrong or are reality TV programmes becoming increasingly trivial?

I suppose it’s Love Island that has me all het up about the sort of viewing on our many channels.

It may look wonderful – like a fantasy sunshine holiday for the under-30s consisting of beautiful young women and men - but its message of casual sex and ultra short-term relationships is an unhealthy one to send out to youngsters. Even if nine million viewers don’t agree.

While Masterchef in all its forms is actually informative, Jersey Shore and The Only Way Is Essex are the dross end of entertainment.

Motorway Cops, Police Interceptors, Inside The Ambulance, 24 Hours in A & E and Nothing to Declare can actually shine a light on life as it’s lived by the majority.

But some of the house makeover programmes make you worry about the state of the British design industry today.

Viewers are actually reduced to watching paint dry.

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

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Whatever next? Celebrity Colonscopy?

My Life with Piles? Please ….. let’s get back to proper programmes.

Long live proper punctuation – it still matters!

SOME people doze off if you mention the word “punctuation” but I’m sure there are still people around who care about it.

I’m afraid I’m actually quite pedantic about grammar and punctuation while some people go for “the double”, abusing both at the same time.

Thanks to texting and posting online, “you’re” as an abbreviation for “you are” has now been replaced by the allpurpose “your”.

This is even creeping into emails, which are supposed to be fairly literate, to mean both a possession belonging to you and a quick form of “you are” at the same time.

separate clauses in a complex sentence (sorry about the school marm bit there).

More simply, it’s for when you would normally take a breath in a sentence.

As a friend once demonstrated beautifully in a Facebook post “My neighbour loves cooking children and dogs but hates commas.” Author Lynn Truss’s book on this subject, entitled “Eats Shoots and Leaves”, has a picture of a panda on the front to amply highlight what happens when commas fall out of favour.

The other victim of terrible punctuation abuse is the apostrophe. This is meant to indicate a missing letter, like “you’re”, but is the complete outcast of the punctuation world.

It crops up in the most unlikely places but refuses to appear when really needed. Examples to set the teeth on edge include a sign in a garden centre “Pansy’s ready” (is she?) and one in a supermarket “Fish Not Just For Friday’s” (Friday’s what?)

Grrrrrrr!

And don’t get me started on the plight of the comma. The comma is meant to

A spot of peace and quiet is just the job LIFE would be a lot easier if we were able to have enforced quiet moments in the day, don’t you think?

It’s so hard to escape noise these days.

The TV seems to have a mind of its own when setting levels for individual programmes and then the loudness of the adverts can be quite a shock.

We have to put up with a certain amount of noise anyway – roadworks, car and lorry engines, motorbikes. People also often walk down the street shouting into their phones. Actually, I don’t care about their private lives or what they’re having for tea. Don’t share.

I’m convinced that people do talk more loudly generally now, having practised on their phones in the street. Normal conversation sounds like a fight and even children talk to each other by shouting.

A quiet time each day – say 3pm for half an hour – would do nicely. Any takers?

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50 Plus Travel

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Discovering Singapore

BY JENNIE BOND “Well, this looks interesting!” said my husband as we were driven from the cruise terminal in Singapore to the airport for the flight home.

“ Don’t even think about seeing them all in one day,” said our wonderful guide, Naseem. “Unless you have your hiking shoes on and are feeling really energetic”. In the heat and humidity, we certainly weren’t.

Jim and I had just disembarked from a Cunard voyage and were heading straight back to the UK. We were both struck by the lush greenery and exotic flowers along the route to the airport, a sharp contrast to the dismal trek along the M4 from central London to Heathrow. And the Singapore skyline was dominated by fascinating pieces of modern architecture.

It seemed such a shame to see so little of this small island on the southern tip of Malaysia. All too often, Singapore is viewed as somewhere you pass through on the way to the Far East or Australia. So we resolved to return and explore.

And that’s how, two years later, we ended up in the lap of luxury at the Shangri-La Hotel in central Singapore. After the long flight from London, we were greeted in the steamy, pre-dawn heat of a March morning, by a doorman dressed as a Tibetan warrior.

It was slightly surreal, but then the Valley Wing of the Shangri La offers its guests a rather extraordinary experience all round.

Even in all my travels with the Royal Family I’ve never come across a hotel offering complimentary champagne, fine wine, cocktails, afternoon tea, dainty sandwiches and canapés throughout your stay.

It’s a place where wine lovers and foodies need to exercise a good deal of self control. We failed!

“Whatever you do,” our friends in the UK had advised us, “you mustn’t miss the Botanical Gardens”.

And so, after a lazy day, a good night’s sleep and a delicious breakfast of Nasi

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With limited time, silly shoes and only pensioner- level energy, we focussed our attention on one specific area: the Orchid Garden. And it’s stunning.

Lemak (coconut rice, with hot chilli sauce, fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumber and a hard-boiled egg) we set off to see the gardens which are the crowning jewel of Singapore.

The Botanical Gardens date back 150 years and have recently been recognised as an UNESCO world heritage site, and it’s easy to see why. First of all, they are enormous: more than 180 acres.

Jim is quite a dab hand at cultivating orchids. We still have one that was given to me 14 years ago after I was in “I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here.” But the Singapore gardens take orchid displays to quite another level. And we were treading in the footsteps of the many famous people who have been there- as the orchids named after them proved: The Queen, the Princess of Wales, Charles and Camilla and Barack Obama, to mention but a few.

There are also two gigantic domes in this park. One is rather like a fantastic indoor Chelsea Flower Show, housed in the world’s largest greenhouse. The other creates the impression that you are walking high up in a cloud - and you are, indeed, extremely high on a cleverly designed skywalk which wends its way back down, giving you a bird’s eye view of the exhibits. However, if you have an aversion to heights, like my husband, this particular attraction is probably best avoided.

Safer perhaps, to stay closer to the ground and visit Singapore’s National Museum. I must admit I’ve had a bit of an aversion to museums ever since those tedious school trips standing looking at bits of rock in glass cases.

But, as I soon discovered, things have changed a great deal in this new world of clever technology. Singapore’s Museum is thoroughly absorbing. The nation’s history is graphically relayed through image and film.

TRAVEL And the Glass Rotunda houses an inspired reproduction of the wildlife pictures of William Farquhar, Sir Stamford Raffles’ right hand man, who became the first British Resident and Commandant of Singapore. As you walk in semi-darkness along a digitally animated mural, birds and antelopes, porcupines and tapirs come to life and seem to follow you.

From that enchanting experience we moved on to a most eerie one: a park dedicated to Chinese mythology. Haw Par Villa is rather a tranquil oasis built for Singaporeans by two brothers who created the famous Tiger Balm herbal remedy. It’s a cross between Disney and the horror chamber at Madame Tussaud’s.

Blood-thirsty statues depict the appalling mythological punishments meted out to robbers, villains and petty thieves.

Throughout our stay, one theme dominated every day: what to eat next.

Singaporeans are a nation of food lovers and standards are extremely high. Even at the many hawker stalls selling satays, noodles and other street food, the hygiene ratings are clearly displayed.

And it’s fun to walk past their smoking barbecues in the warm night air and choose which offerings to sample.

Our most memorable meal was at Red House, a seafood restaurant established more than 40 years ago. There we shared a set menu for one, including Singapore’s famous chilli crab, and found we had more than enough food for us both. It was delicious.

So, if you find yourself en route to somewhere that takes you via Singapore, don’t just pass through, take a few days to explore. Or simply make it your destination, because there really is a

lot to see-and we barely scratched the surface of all it has to offer.

For more information about Singapore visit www.visitsingapore.com More information First Class Holidays offer a 5-night stay at the Shangri-La Singapore in a Garden Wing deluxe room including breakfast, private airport transfers and return flights from Heathrow with Singapore Airlines from £1,499 per person based on two sharing. www.fcholidays.com or call 0161 888 5606

National Helpline 0800 917 7650 www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

Alcoholics Anonymous has over 4,400 groups throughout Great Britain dedicated to helping those with a serious alcohol problem learn how to stay sober. Groups are made up of people from all walks of life and all age groups. Through friendship and mutual support, members assist each other in coping which is made easier by meeting others with the same problem. There are no dues or fees for membership and anonymity is carefully preserved.

Anyone who believes they have a drink problem can contact Alcoholics Anonymous by using the helpline number above or email; help@aamail.org Further information may be obtained from the web site above or from the General Service Office at the address below.

For information: P.O. Box 1, 10 Toft Green, York. YO1 7NJ Tel: 01904 644 026

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TRAVEL

50 Plus Travel

sponsored by much as possible! Marvellous Jonny, the tour manager, was in charge of the logistics, and Luv, their wonderful, local guide, told entertaining stories, answered questions and gave fascinating background knowledge to the visits.

Escorted touring makes the journey that bit easier and removes any vulnerability you might feel in such a different culture, Penny said, whilst ensuring that you really do get to see a great deal, as well as accessing places the individual won’t find. Local knowledge is a marvellous thing!

Former GMTV presenter and author Penny Smith immerses herself in India, with Travelsphere

by Jennie Carr from Silver Travel Advisor Penny told Jennie all about her recent trip, ‘Beyond the Golden Triangle’, where she reached parts of India others might not get to.

As you might imagine, this lively broadcaster loves to travel and her latest journey took her to India to Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Talabgoan and Jaipur. So a trip of definite contrasts with tuk-tuks, tigers (note the plural) and the Taj Mahal. It’s Penny’s third trip to India and yet there’s always more to experience.

What hits you first Penny said, is the very special smell of all pervasive warm spices. And there’s no ignoring the poverty and dust, both part and parcel of a trip here.

This time she chose to travel in an escorted group, with fellow travellers

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ranging in age from late 30s to those in their 70s. Everyone was keen to do as

Take the trip to the workshops where marble inlaid with semi-precious stones is prepared, an incredible feat of craftmanship, by the direct descendants of those who worked on the romantic Taj Mahal, built 1631 - 1648

by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz. Penny felt thrilled to have seen both these places, the former adding so much insight to the latter, which is undoubtedly one of the most stunning buildings in the world.

Penny found the Indian people charming, even if their bureaucracy is a tad unbelievable – she reckoned it took at least three people to check every ticket for every venue! What she did notice since her last visit, was the definite increase in Indian tourists, travelling within their own country, due to the rise in the ‘middle class’ over

recent years. There were great photo opportunities, vibrant colours are a real feature here. And requests for ‘selfies’ with locals were hilarious, all in good spirits and never a scam, which had been a concern.

We touched on the subject of food, which Penny freely admitted to loving: Indian food, she said, must be tried in India, calling it a thing of joy and beauty. Especially the mattar paneer (spicy peas and cheese), the sambar soup and the okra and the cauliflower and …..everything! Penny admitted to putting on weight, eating three delicious meals a day, in her quest not to miss a single tasty morsel!

The ‘wow’ moment came in Ranthambore National Park on an early morning drive when Penny and her group saw tigers, almost blending with the red brown earth and grasses. Despite the guides pointing out where to look, it took almost ten minutes to spot them for the untutored eye. Powerful, graceful with rippling muscles, moving softly on paddy-paws, she was struck by how magnificent yet vulnerable they appeared. And it was to see these amazing beasts that prompted Penny to travel in May, when it is very hot. However, sightings are more likely at this time, with less vegetation growing and less water available. And most fortunately, this also meant that mosquitoes were nonexistent, although it’s still advisable to wear long sleeves and full-length trousers to protect yourself from the sun, and to ensure no offence is caused at religious sites. The heat determined that by day two, everyone in the group was walking more slowly, acclimatising gently, having lost their UK speed and bustle. The afternoon drive in the park brought a wide variety of magnificent birds, iridescent as they flew.

We talked about the extraordinary hotel at Talabgaon Castle, which has been owned by the same family for three hundred years. It was visited by The Queen and Prince Philip in their youth, as guests of the Maharani and Maharaja, and the photograph of them sits in pride of place in the hotel. It’s a true wonder, full of colour and blue glass against the flat dusty earth, a traditional home, with modern comforts in the bedrooms and well plumbed bathrooms. It was, she told me, ideal for relaxing after the exhilarating National Park safaris, with time to catch her breath before heading on to Jaipur and back to Delhi.

Penny observed that taking tuk tuks in Jaipur brought a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘living on the edge’: drivers dodged frantically through furious traffic on the main street, texting with one hand now and again, avoiding the cows meandering at will along the verges. Having alighted in one piece, she went shopping for souvenirs: a papier-mâché elephant, bangles made from wood of the banyan tree and bolts of traditionally block printed material for dressmaking, one of Penny’s hobbies. The good-natured bartering that went on greatly added to the whole experience and created memories of small, dimly-lit shops crammed full of goods, like unexpected treasure troves.

From endangered animals, manic, small taxis and the UNESCO World Heritage site, India offers immensely rewarding opportunities for travellers who are looking for an escorted tour that’s more than a little different.

Silver Facts: Penny toured with Travelsphere www.travelsphere.co.uk. Telephone 01858 897 962 The Beyond the Golden Triangle tour runs for 10 days from £1,499.

I​f you want to delve deeper into India's fascinating culture and history, this is the tour for you. Discover the many highlights of Delhi before heading to Agra and ticking off the world-famous Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Keep your fingers crossed for plenty of wildlife sightings on safari in Ranthambore National Park and then enjoy a visit to the 'Pink City' of Jaipur and nearby Amber Fort. An overnight stay in a restored 200-yearold fort rounds off your journey and adds a touch of luxury at the end of your holiday.

Departures from October 2018 to November 2019.

Visit www.silvertraveladvisor.com for further holiday and travel information, suggestions and advice in the UK and around the world.

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E x p ei rtnsfittnoersic e a h tt n s ea v en di ei sr t ou to g n i turn it into a room that feels more like an n a e k i l e r o m f r o m P l o u g h c r o f t w i l l h a v e y o u r osldl roeosf e r f e tt ta fih tt r me po xo Er .a l a o v t an e extension. m o t r f f o r c h g uf oo ol Pr d l o r u o y e v a h . n o i s n e t x e r e m o v e d a n d y o u r U l t r a R o o f 3 8 0 While conservatories bring in plenty 0 8 3 f o o R a r t l U r u o y t n e l p n i g n i r b s e i r o t a v r e s n o c y e dl i n i n s t a l l e d i n n o t i m e – a l l y o u n e e d t o d o i s of natural daylight, the UltraRoof380 s i o d o t d e e n u 0 8 3 f o o R a r t l U e h t , t h g i l y a d l a r u to a y n l s i t b a c k a n d w a t c h y o u r t r a n s f o r m a t i o n . provides the best of both worlds, allowing g n i w o l l a , s d l r o w. n h o t i ot ab mf or ot fs se nb a er th rt u

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HOME & GARDEN

Bring the Sunshine into

YOUR HOME Start using more FOLIAGE in the home.

Fresh plants have very definite health benefits around the house and the humble houseplant is fast becoming a must-have buy.

Pop down to the local garden centre and invest in plenty of lovely plants, placing them in every room to bring the garden indoors and freshen up every space. Yes, they need watering and care but the rewards are huge. Put indoor hanging baskets in your conservatory or orangerie for a very definite extension of the garden inside your property.

Pick up the green theme in FURNITURE. You don’t necessarily need to invest in a new sofa or armchairs – just use a brightly coloured throw in Nature’s best shades to bring Winter rooms to life.

Although our wonderful summer has left us and autumn is here

allow light into the hallway. And could your hallway do with redecorating and painting a bright colour?

They’re cosy as well for any slightly chillier evenings.

You don’t always need hot sun and high temperatures to make your home welcoming. There are plenty of ways to improve your property that makes you FEEL like Summer every day.

Start by taking a practical look at the OUTSIDE of your property. Is it looking tired? Could it do with a coat of fresh paint? Does plasterwork and woodwork need re-doing or replacing?

If your home looks sunny on the outside, it’s a major step to it feeling sunny on the inside. One quick way is, if you have a garage, paint the garage door in a bright and cheerful colour to make you smile every time you see it.

Your FRONT DOOR may be well past its prime, too, so consider buying a new door, perhaps with more glass in to

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HOME & GARDEN Redecorate a lounge or sitting room in the best shades, or opt for neutrals with splashes of colour.

If you prefer stronger colours or just an antidote to pastel shades, go for inky blues to break up spaces. This may be in the form of an imposing vase or some coloured glass for your flowers. And vary floral displays to different heights and widths to create an interesting and eye-catching addition to any room.

Take a fresh look at your WINDOWS as an easy way to let light and sunshine in any time. If the double-glazing is blown or misty or if they are just looking old-fashioned or don’t maximise available light, it may well be worth asking for a quote from a recommended company.

One place to start is FENSA, a Government-authorised Competent Person Scheme for the replacement of windows, doors, roof windows and roof lights in England and Wales.

They are also aware of the relevant Building Regulations and work with thousands of double-glazing contractors assessed for their abilities. So it may well be worth visiting their website at https://www.fensa.org.uk Opening up roofs with windows can turn a previously gloomy spot into a lovely bright area. ORANGERIES and CONSERVATORIES are also worth considering at this time of year when work can be done easily with fewer problems caused by the weather. Again, always try to see a company’s work elsewhere before you buy and go on recommendation.

Another very effective way to bring fresh air and sunshine into your kitchen and living areas is with BI-FOLDING DOORS. These flexible glass doors offer a real opportunity to improve the amount of living space and bring in the outside.

They’re also great for entertaining if you have your barbecue on the patio and the garden spread out before you!

All that new light may, unfortunately, also make you take a fresh look at your KITCHEN and wish it, too, was much sunnier. Replacing unit doors is a good way to give a whole new look to this busy “heart of the home”. If you don’t want to spend that amount of money, begin by replacing utensils for any of the bright ranges currently on offer in supermarkets and homes’ stores.

A co-ordinated look among your utensils – and the coffeemaker and microwave as well if you like – breathes new life into tired-looking kitchens and takes advantage of all that extra fresh air and light.

BATHROOMS, too, can benefit from simple ideas like replacing items like tooth mugs, toilet roll holders and even shower curtains with something newer and more colourful.

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Complement those with an unusual ornament in the same colour or more of those great, green plants and you freshen up the whole room to look pristine again.

Furnishings in BEDROOMS for 2018 follow an unusual trend – ombre. More recently, this has meant shading colour in hairstyles but here it applies to shading in everything from cushions and rugs to bedding, curtains and lampshades.

Just graduate different shades of the same colours. You can even do this with wallpapers by mixing and matching plain and print patterns in similar colours. The effects really are stunning.

If you want to enjoy your garden more, it’s also worth making it as accessible, comfortable and as pleasing as possible.

Installing a WATER FEATURE, for example, is always a relaxing and visually pleasing innovation.

The Royal Horticultural Society’s website is well worth a visit for ideas on everything from hedges and paths to furniture and containers along with planting advice. Go to https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/design You might want a more Mediterranean garden with the sort of shrubby vegetation in big pots and gravel between to emulate the hotter conditions of the South of France, Italy and Spain. Pots in lovely jewel colours will certainly make you think of sun-drenched Continental beaches and lush French countryside.

And if your bright home plan helps you think of holiday enjoyment every day then you’ve succeeded!

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HOME & GARDEN

Creative ways to freshen up your home

WITH PLANTS plants that will both suit the spot you intend to place them.

HANGING HERBS It’s great to grow your own herbs and have them close by when cooking. A clever way to do this and create an interesting feature in your kitchen is by growing them in hanging containers. You should always hang them up as close to a windowsill as possible, so they can receive maximum light.

BATHROOM GREENERY Don’t forget about the bathroom when decorating your home with houseplants.

The steamy environment can provide the perfect climate for certain plants, and they can look right at home on a windowsill or next to the sink. You can even hang them on the wall for a retro look. Green plants will always complement white bathrooms.

Plants aren’t just for gardens – indoor greenery offers a great way of adding vibrancy to our homes and interiors.

From adding height and colour to modern and retro styles, there are so many ways you can transform your interiors with houseplants.

TABLE TOP TERRARIUMS Terrariums are a modern way of displaying plants in your home. You can buy them ready planted at various garden and home stores, or you can also make your own using a glass jar, container or fishbowl. Terrariums are perfect for housing succulents and cactuses, as they require only a small amount of water and plenty of light to thrive.

air quality in our homes. Big leafy greens look great in a modern interior, but go for plants with different heights to create a sense of balance.

BLOCK COLOUR PLANT POTS If you need to break up an empty space, a large plant pot painted in a bright colour will look stylish and fill the room perfectly. Paint in a single shade that matches the accents of your home furnishings, as this will create a cohesive colour scheme.

TEAPOT PLANTERS A fun and inventive way to add style to your home with plants is by displaying them in unusual containers, such as an old teapot. Fill with small houseplants and succulents for a vintage, quirky feel to your interiors. Check out your local charity shop or car boot sale for some cheap pieces you can easily turn into fabulous makeshift plant pots.

ABUNDANCE OF GREEN

HEIGHTENED INTEREST

Immersing your home with greenery is currently a popular trend. It can add a feeling of calmness to any space and certain plants can actually improve the

A great way of adding a feature with houseplants is by pairing them with other greenery that has different heights and textures. Different plants require different conditions, so try to match

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DON’T CUT CORNERS If a corner of your room is looking a little bleak, an ideal way to fill the space and bring life into the home is with a houseplant. If it’s a particularly shady spot go for a plant which doesn’t need much sunlight to thrive. Place the plant into a colourful plant pot for an added statement.

MIRROR FRAMEWORK Cute topiaries perfectly frame a large mirror on a mantel or dresser. This is a great way to add style to any home where all you need are two matching indoor plants placed either side. It also adds continuity to a room which will look balanced in a living space and can create a calming effect in a bedroom.

MACRAME PLANTERS This retro way of hanging plants was first popular in the 70’s but has recently made a revival. Macrame is a technique which uses ropes and knots to form a planter that you can hang topiaries in.

They look great in any room and work well with cactuses and succulents.

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Real lives

Give Your Property KERB APPEAL

Are you looking to transform the front of your house with an attractive new driveway?

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f so, then a resin drive is well-worth considering.

Resin bound surfacing is a porous paving material made from a mixture of aggregate stones and resin. It combines the best attributes of other surfaces – the appearance of loose gravel, the strength of concrete and the flexibility of tarmac – whilst being easier to maintain than all three!

It’s environmentally friendly too – unlike bonded systems, a resin bound surface allows water to drain through just as Mother Nature intended, so you can minimise the impact on the environment and avoid puddles at the same time.

Resin bound surfacing comes in a choice of over 40 unique colours and is suitable for all types of properties and projects including driveways, patios, paths, terraces and roof gardens.

The benefits of a resin driveway

Slip resistant surface Adds value to your property No planning permission required Suitable for listed buildings, urban or rural properties ✔ Completely porous, so no puddles or floods ✔ Weed adverse materials ✔ Strong and durable so it will outlast other driveway options ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Sarah Beeny, property developer and TV presenter, is a big fan of resin drives. “Resin is definitely the perfect drive finish,” she says. “It’s so practical — being totally porous it drains brilliantly and doesn’t create puddles. It’s lovely to walk on, has a long-lasting durable finish and is available in an amazing range of colours.”

“It’s a bit like a little black dress. You can dress it up glitzy glam if you want a real Hollywood look, or it can blend perfectly with a natural rural setting.”

She recommends Resindrives.co.uk for their professional service and high-quality work on her driveway: “They arrived when they said they would, gave us a clear time schedule for the work and were finished early”, she says.

“All the fitters were polite and charming and properly cleaned up after themselves. They did a beautiful job and were complete perfectionists.”

Resindrives.co.uk have been installing resin driveways successfully since 2007. To find out more or get a free quote, call 0800 007 5733 or visit www.resindrives.co.uk.

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CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

Homeward Bound PAUL SIMON SAYS FAREWELL PAUL Simon has a particularly soft spot for England – and England definitely has a soft spot for the veteran American singer.

He is 76 now and in the middle of an extensive tour which takes in Europe and various cities in America but also includes England with gigs at the Manchester Arena and an appearance at the British Summer Time Festival in London’s Hyde Park.

Early in his career – when he and Art Garfunkel had initially broken up as a duo – he came over to England and played the folk circuits. During this time, he made a solo album called Back in America and also wrote songs including the haunting Homeward Bound.

In fact, he wrote it while sitting on the platform at Widnes railway station on Merseyside, waiting for a train to take him back to London and his girlfriend!

Born in Newark, New Jersey, Paul Simon became one of the best known singer/ songwriters of his day. In 1957, he and his high school pal Art Garfunkel wrote and recorded their first single under the name Tom and Jerry.

This wasn’t a hit but it was the start of a remarkably bright musical relationship that burned in a stellar light for several years before sputtering and then fizzling out as the two finally went their separate ways.

Paul attended Queens College and got a BA in English and also studied law for a while but quit in 1964 when the pull of his music proved too great.

He had minor hit singles under the name Jerry Landis and he and Art got back together as Simon & Garfunkel for a while, recording the album Wednesday Morning 3am. This was a failure, though, and the duo broke up which is when Paul came to England.

When he returned to America, the producer of their first album, Tom Wilson, dubbed bass, electric guitar and drums to the all-acoustic song The Sound of Silence. This then propelled the duo up the folk-rock scene. In 1966, the album of the same name featured some of their most famous songs – I am A Rock, Richard Cory and Kathy’s Song. Their next album Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme

again had seminal work still popular today including Scarborough Fair, Homeward Bound and The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy).

In 1967, Mike Nichols asked Paul to write a song for his upcoming movie, The Graduate. The song, Mrs Robinson, formed part of their next album, Bookends, which is considered one of the greatest albums of the Sixties. Hits from this number Hazy Shade of Winter, America, At The Zoo, The Boxer and Cecilia.

Simon & Garfunkel split up at the height of their fame in 1970. Garfunkel had been cast in the film Catch-22 and Simon’s character had been dropped. No real explanation has been given for their breakup but Paul immediately emerged as a solo singer, still writing wonderful songs.

The success of his solo albums like Still Crazy After All These Years ultimately proved that he still had a huge musical connection with people all over the world.

However, there were periods – especially in the early 1980s - when Paul’s magic touch seemed to be waning. He became, though, fascinated by the music of South Africa and visited the country. There, he recorded with South African musicians and the album Graceland followed which became a multi-million best-seller.

In 1987, he was the winner of the British Phonographic Industry Award for International Solo Artist following the success of Graceland.

In 2003, the duo received a Lifetime Achievement Award, they have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Paul into the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame. In 2007, he was awarded the First Gershwin Prize for Popular Music by the Library of Congress and in 2011, he was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Of his many concert appearances, Paul is most proud of the two in Central Park in New York and the series of shows he did at the invitation of Nelson Mandela in South Africa. He was the first American artist to perform in post-apartheid South Africa.

Paul’s philanthropic work includes the co-founding of The Children’s Health Fund with Dr Irwin Redlener. This donates and staffs mobile medical vans to bring healthcare to poor and indigent children in urban and rural locations around America.

He has also raised millions of dollars for a large variety of worthy causes.

His fans realised that Paul was prepared to experiment with his music, and they loved it! As he later explained about Graceland: “I did not set out to make a political statement. I was making a cultural statement with political implications.

Paul has been married three times – including to the late actress Carrie Fisher – and has four children. Three of his children are with his current wife, the singersongwriter Edie Brickell.

“I started to build the album around rhythms in response to my frustration with the album that preceded Graceland which was Hearts and Bones.

Plainly a complex man, he once said: “I’m generally enthusiastic when I’m working and when I immediately finish I’m enthusiastic. Shortly after that, I don’t want to hear it.

“With Graceland, I thought I’ll just make tracks that I really like and then I’ll write the songs, the words, and if I don’t like what they sound like set to the music, I’d throw things out and start again. Which on a couple of occasions I did.”

Paul’s career has been littered with awards – Grammys for individual songs and his work with Art Garfunkel and then for his solo albums including Graceland as Artist & Producer of the Record of the Year.

“It’s always been my way. It’s such an intense process for me and the process itself can take so long, and I get into it so completely, that by the time I’ve finished a piece of work I’m really finished with it. I’m done.”

But for the many millions of his fans, the hope is that the huge talent that is Paul Simon will continue for a long time to come.

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FOOD & DRINK

Nathan Outlaw, the owner of the world's only 2 Michelin Stars Fish Restaurant shares his recipes Barbecued grey mullet with garlic, fennel and olives There is something about butterflied fish cooked on a barbecue – somehow it just seems right. Lightly marinating the fish brings out its qualities and adds even more. The charred skin is really there for protection but if you get the temperature of the barbecue just right it will be lovely and crispy – delicious with the fennel, anise and garlic flavours.

Ingredients Serves 4 2 grey mullet, about 1kg each, scaled, gutted, butterflied and pin-boned 2 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped Olive oil for marinating and cooking 2 medium fennel bulbs 2 red onions, peeled and quartered Cornish sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Black olive dressing Handful of black olives, pitted and finely chopped About 150ml olive oil 2 tbsp chopped dill A splash of pastis Salad cream 2 egg yolks 2 tsp English mustard 2 tsp caster sugar 2 tbsp lemon juice 300ml light olive oil 30ml double cream

To marinate the fish, lay the butterflied fillets on a tray, sprinkle over the garlic and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle with oil and carefully rub the flavourings into the fish. Cover and leave to marinate in the fridge for 2 hours.

a bowl, stir in the cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and chill in the fridge.

Half an hour or so before the fish is required, light the barbecue.

To prepare the fennel, remove any tough outer layer, then quarter the bulbs. Thread the fennel and red onion quarters onto skewers, season with salt and pepper and drizzle with oil.

For the salad cream, put the egg yolks, mustard, sugar and lemon juice into a blender and blitz briefly to combine.

With the motor running, add the oil in a slow, steady stream. Once it is all incorporated and emulsified, transfer to

For the dressing, combine all the ingredients in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. When the barbecue coals are ready, cook the fennel and red onion skewers on a medium heat (rather than the hottest part of the

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barbecue) until tender; this should take about 10 minutes.

Once the vegetables are cooked, take them off the barbecue and keep warm. Now lay the butterflied fish skin side down on the hottest part of the barbecue and cook for about 4 minutes.

Turn and cook for 2 minutes on the flesh side (the skin should have lifted, making it easy to turn the fish over).

Lay the fish and vegetable skewers on warm plates and spoon on the olive dressing.

Serve with the salad cream.

Plaice poached in butter with leeks, and parsley and mustard mash Poached on the bone, plaice is great. Poached in butter, it’s even better! This is a fish that is prone to drying, but the butter keeps the flesh deliciously moist. Lemon sole and brill similarly benefit from being cooked this way.

Ingredients Serves 4 2 plaice, about 1kg each, fins trimmed, head removed and split down the centre bone 500g salted butter 2 bay leaves 3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed 1 large thyme sprig 8 small leeks, outer leaves removed and cut across in half, or 12 baby leeks, trimmed Cornish sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Parsley and mustard mash 3 large baking potatoes 150ml whole milk 4 tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley 1–2 tbsp English mustard, to taste To serve Lemon wedges 30ml double cream

Heat your oven to 220°C/Gas 7. For the mash, put the potatoes on an oven tray and bake for 1 hour or until tender.

When the potatoes are cooked, set aside until cool enough to handle.

Lower the oven setting to 180°C/Gas 4.

the fish and cook in the oven for about 12 minutes. Meanwhile, warm the mash and leeks.

Put the butter, bay leaves, garlic and thyme in a pan and warm over a low heat until the butter has melted. Add the leeks and cook until the butter starts to turn golden, then remove from the heat and leave to cool.

Once cooled, strain off most of the butter into a roasting tin large enough to hold the plaice.

For the mash, bring the milk to a simmer in a pan and remove from the heat. Cut the potatoes in half, scoop out the flesh and pass through a potato ricer into a bowl, or mash with a potato masher.

Fold in the milk and then add enough of the reserved poaching butter to give a soft mash. Add the chopped parsley and mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste.

To check the fish is done, carefully lift a piece out of the butter and insert a small knife at the thickest point, hold it there for 5 seconds and then place it against the back of your wrist; it should feel warm, not cold or hot.

Transfer the leeks to a tray, ready to warm through to serve. Reserve the rest of the butter.

To cook the fish, bring the butter in the roasting tin to a simmer. Carefully add

Scoop the mash onto warm plates and add the leeks. Carefully lift the plaice onto the plates, spoon over some of the butter and season with a little salt. Serve at once, with lemon wedges.

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FOOD & DRINK

Salmon poached in tarragon vinegar with carrots in brown butter There is something about butterflied fish cooked on a barbecue – somehow it just seems right. Lightly marinating the fish brings out its qualities and adds even more. The charred skin is really there for protection but if you get the temperature of the barbecue just right it will be lovely and crispy – delicious with the fennel, anise and garlic flavours.

Ingredients Serves 4 4 portions of salmon fillet, about 200g each, pin-boned 2 carrots, peeled 200ml white wine 200ml white wine vinegar 400ml water 50g caster sugar 10 tarragon sprigs Sea salt Carrots in brown butter 250g salted butter 8 small carrots, peeled and halved lengthways, or 24 baby carrots 1 garlic clove, peeled and finely chopped 2 tsp chopped tarragon

Cut the carrots lengthways into fine ribbons, using a vegetable peeler or mandoline. Pour the wine, wine vinegar and water into a saucepan and add the sugar, a pinch of salt, the carrot ribbons and tarragon sprigs. Bring to the boil, lower the heat and simmer for 2 minutes.

Take off the heat and leave to infuse for 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, for the brown butter, heat the butter in a pan over a medium-low heat until melted and starting to bubble. At this stage, lower the heat and continue to cook until the butter turns brown and has a nutty aroma; don’t let it burn.

Immediately remove from the heat and strain through a muslin-lined sieve into a bowl.

Add the halved or whole baby carrots to a pan containing enough cold water to just cover them and add some salt. Bring to the boil, lower the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until the carrots are almost cooked. Drain and return them to the pan. Add 50ml of the brown butter with the chopped garlic and warm through over a low heat. Season with salt to taste and remove from the heat.

Drain the carrot ribbons, reserving the liquor; set aside.

To cook the salmon, bring the reserved liquor to a simmer in a fairly wide pan and add the fish fillets, making sure they are fully submerged.

Remove the pan from the heat, cover and leave to stand for 10 minutes; the fish will cook in the residual heat. To check the fish is done, carefully lift out a portion and insert a small knife into the thickest point, hold it there for 5 seconds and then place it against the back of your wrist; it should feel warm, not cold or hot.

Once the fish is ready, for the dressing, combine 75ml of the poaching liquor with 150ml brown butter, warm through and add the chopped tarragon. Place a portion of salmon on each warm plate.

Divide the carrot ribbons and brown butter carrots between the plates and spoon the dressing over the fish and carrots to serve.

Nathan Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen (Quadrille, £14.99) Photography © David Loftus

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the

Strines Inn

D

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

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

In the height of Summer the Inn attracts hundreds of visitors on a daily basis.

The glorious sunshine and stunning views perfectly compliment the excellent food and drink available, with many dishes being homemade.

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

There is also accommodation available for those people looking to escape for a few days to relax. All rooms have Four poster beds and En-Suite facilities.

Christmas Bookings now being taken THE STRINES INN BRADFIELD DALE, SHEFFIELD S6 6JE TEL: 0114 285 1247

www.thestrinesinn.co.uk WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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OUT & ABOUT

Out & About

A GUIDE to some amazing events Tuesday 9th October

The Class Project

Arch 468 Presents A Theatre In The Mill Commission.

Written & Performed by Rebecca Atkinson-Lord.

This is a show about belonging. About tribes and families. About the place you belong because you were born there; the places that are in your blood but also the places you adopt; that you pretend are your home and the places you change yourself to try and belong in.

It’s about class mobility. And regional identity. And being a Thatcher’s child.

It’s about education and ‘making good’ for yourself. And maybe about how that can leave you exiled from the place you started. With nowhere to quite belong.

It’s about always being an imposter and trying to remember how to speak in your own voice.

Lawrence Batley Theatre Huddersfield, Queen Street, Huddersfield HD1 2SP Phone: 01484 430528 Friday 12th October @ 7.30pm

Islands in the Stream

Enjoy the songs of the Queen and King of country music - Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. Leave your 9 to 5 worries at thedoor and get ready for a night in the company.

Cleckheaton Town Hall Bradford Road, Cleckheaton BD19 3RH Tel: 01274 335030 www.kirkleestownhalls.co.uk Friday 12th October 2018

Magic of Motown

Music fans are invited to the biggest party of the year as the unstoppable Magic of Motown show steams into town! Seen by over a million people, it's no surprise that the show is one of the biggest success stories in British theatre history, even performing for Her Majesty the Queen, as special guests at the Royal Variety Performance. Prepare yourself for 40 back-to-back classic Motown hits, glittering costume changes,

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dazzling dance moves and outstanding musicianship in this explosive concert experience. With timeless music of Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson and more, are sensationally recreated for you by an exceptionally talented cast and band.

This breath-taking concert spectacular takes you on a musical journey through all your favourite songs, including: Ain’t No Mountain, Signed Sealed Delivered, Dancing In The Streets, My Cherie Amor, Heatwave and many more. Start time: 8:00 pm Tickets from: £27.50* £26.50* The Victoria Theatre Halifax 2 Fountain Street, Halifax HX1 1BP Box Office: 01422 351158 Tuesday 23rd October

Charge

From the electrical charge that sparks human life, to the beating of our hearts and the memories we make, six performers use dance and acrobatics to delve deep into the human body, tracing the incredible story of energy in our lives.

Digital projections create a world on stage where dancers and images interact seamlessly, bringing to life stories of energy in our own bodies and humans as energy manipulators.

In an exciting fusion of art and science, Motionhouse (Broken) has worked with partners from the University of Oxford on the role of electricity in the human body to inspire the show.

‘Utterly mesmerizing’ BBC RADIO MANCHESTER Lawrence Batley Theatre Huddersfield, Queen Street, Huddersfield HD1 2SP Phone: 01484 430528

Saturday 27th October 2018

James Martin On the Road...

Again

Superstar chef James Martin will be returning to theatres around the country this October following the huge success of his 2016 tour. On the Road… Again will see James bring the experiences of his hit TV shows ‘French Adventure’, ‘American Adventure’ and ‘Saturday Morning with James Martin’ to this brand new live show.

His legendary cooking skills will be on display, dazzling the audiences with his skill, speed and dexterity, and of course his usual unabashed humour.

Audiences can expect an entertaining, fast-moving, immersive show, jampacked with James’ signature cooking demonstrations and full of exciting twists. Although food will be at the heart of the show, James will also be joined by special guests and promises some big surprises. He learned to play guitar for his last tour, so who knows what surprise he will pull out of the pan this year! Start time: 7:30 pm Running time: 1hr 30mins Tickets from: £39.25* The Victoria Theatre Halifax 2 Fountain Street, Halifax HX1 1BP Box Office: 01422 351158 Thursday 01st November

Steve Steinman’s – The Meat Loaf Story

Steve Steinman the creative force behind the hugely successful Vampires Rock returns with this epic musical concert delivering the best of the best

Friday 16th November

of the people who lived and worked here, including the noted diarist Anne Lister (1791 - 1840). Shibden Hall’s architecture is a mix of styles reflecting its interesting and varied history.

from Meat Loafs Bat Out Of Hell record breaking album. With incredible stage set, superb band and Steve Steinman’s unique sense of humour and stage presence, the show will have you up on your feet and dancing in the aisles to all the greatest Meat Loaf hits –Paradise by the Dashboard Light, Took the Words Right Out of My Mouth, Anything For Love, Dead Ringer For Love and Bat Out of Hell, to name just a few. Start time: 7:30 pm Tickets from: £29.25* The Victoria Theatre Halifax 2 Fountain Street, Halifax HX1 1BP Box Office: 01422 351158

Shibden Hall

Set in the picturesque Shibden valley, a mile from Halifax, Shibden Hall dates back to 1420 and offers visitors a fascinating journey through the lives

Derek Acorah Love, Life, Laughter 7.30pm. Tickets £20.

Dewsbury Town Hall, Wakefield Old Rd, Dewsbury WF12 8DG www.kirkleestownhalls.co.uk

The adjacent 17th century aisled barn and workshops house a carriage collection and displays relating to different crafts, including a blacksmiths, coopers, wheelwrights and saddlers.

Shibden even has a recreated brewhouse and inn.

16th November to 31st December

Christmas at The Piece Hall

This winter season, Yorkshire’s stunning Georgian cloth hall - The Piece Hall in Halifax - will be transformed into a spectacular Christmas destination like no other.

The Hall is surrounded by the beautifully restored gardens and estate that forms Shibden Park. There are a range of features and attractions, including a cafe and visitor facilities, miniature railway, boating lake, pitch & putt course as well as trails, play area, orienteering course and woodland in which to roam.

A festive market showcasing some of the region’s favourite independent food, drink and craft traders will take over our central courtyard for two weekends, while the surrounding resident shopping and dining offer provides the perfect place for you to find that special gift and stop for a bite to eat along the way.

17th & 18th November 2018 (All day)

Shibden's Winter Craft Fair

Shibden Hall's annual winter craft fair returns. A selection of local crafts and produce on sale in time for Christmas shopping. The perfect place for present buying or to treat yourself.

Reduced admission to the Hall

While later in the season, the magnificent circus-style Spiegeltent will return with another fantastic 24-day programme of family shows, live music, stand-up comedy and late-night cabaret, alongside seasonal street entertainment and creative Christmas workshops that offer the chance for you to get crafty with this year’s decorations.

Shibden Hall, Lister's Rd, Halifax HX3 6XG 0844 686 1177

T.Rextasy

What The Floyd?

5th Oct 7:30pm

6th Oct 7:30pm

Robin Windsor The farewell tour 20th Oct 7:30pm

BEATLEMANIA 21st Oct 7:30pm

Psychic Sally 10th Anniversary Tour 18th Oct 7:30pm

Elvis The Legend

Kabaret Movie Musicals 25th - 26th Oct

The Wild Tonics

19th Oct 7:30pm

2nd Nov 7:30pm

www.castlefordphoenixtheatre.co.uk

Love Local Theatre Tel: 01977 664566

New Season Highlights

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OUT & ABOUT THE SPIEGELTENT Featuring music from multi award-winning jazz vocalist Jacqui Dankworth and acclaimed American pianist-vocalist, Charlie Wood on 9 December, Mark Radcliffe's seafaring band Galleon Blast on 14 December and award-winning ABBA tribute band Revival on 28 December.

Drag supergroup Denim make their Halifax debut on 21 December with a dazzling cabaret show and return on 22 December with a drag pop concert especially for kids.

Britain's leading one-liner comic, Gary Delaney returns to Halifax on 12 December and is followed by George Egg who takes to the stage with his funny, inspiring and absurd show DIY Chef.

Family entertainment includes Mark Thompson's Spectacular Science Show on 15 December, where he will explore the strange and magical properties of matter with fireballs, fire tornadoes and explosive chemical reactions while imaginative storytelling will bring the Spiegeltent to life with The Boggle on 27, 28 & 29 December.

The Piece Hall, Blackledge, Halifax HX1 1RE 01422 525200

Friday 7th Dececmber Sunday 6th January

Aladdin

This Christmas join Aladdin on a magic carpet ride!

The team that brought you Cinderella and Jack and the Beanstalk are back with another festive treat for the whole family.

Beyond The Barricade

Live music, laughs galore, fabulous scenery and glittering costumes all come together in Aladdin, our latest traditional family pantomime – where wishes really do come true!

Cleckheaton Town Hall Bradford Road, Cleckheaton BD19 3RH Tel: 01274 335030 www.kirkleestownhalls.co.uk

Penniless Aladdin dreams of a life of luxury and when he discovers an old magic lamp all his dreams could come true.

But can his Genie friends help him recover it from the evil Abanazar?

Can he save the Princess and win her love?

Price: £9.50 - £18.50 Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, Queen Street, Huddersfield HD1 2SP Phone: 01484 430528

Friday 30th November 7.30pm Recreating original West End and Broadway musical hit songs with amazing authenticity, Beyond the Barricade features a cast of past principal performers from the West End production of Les Miserables.

Tickets £22.50

A Northern Broadsides and York Theatre Royal Co-Production

WED 14 – SAT 17 NOVEMBER Box Office 01484 430528 26 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

thelbt.org

A great day out come rain or shine...

Explore the longest, deepest and highest canal tunnel in Britain on a boat trip, enjoy lunch overlooking the canal in the Watersedge CafĂŠ and let little ones play in the FREE indoor soft play and outdoor adventure areas Visit canalrivertrust.org.uk/Standedge for more information or call 01484 844298 to book your boat trip

@Standedge

@Standedge

OUT & ABOUT

Sat 22 Dec - Sun 23 Dec

‘Twas The Night Before Christmas

Front Room Productions It is Christmas Eve and Santa’s elves, Holly and Ivy, are calling for help from all children to make sure they have completed their checklist, so that everything is ready for Santa and for Christmas.

With heavy sacks of presents, poorly reindeer, and one too many mince pies, will Santa have enough time to make it around all the houses in time for Christmas day?

Front Room Productions present ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas, with music, poetry and a whole lot of festive fun for all the family. Price: £7 Lawrence Batley Theatre Huddersfield, Queen St, Huddersfield HD1 2SP Phone: 01484 430528

Saturday 12th Sat 19th January

Cinderella

Huddersfield Light Opera Company Huddersfield Light Opera Company are back to put an end to the postChristmas blues with their usual funpacked traditional family pantomime.

Bursting with comedy, audience participation, spectacular scenery, a breath taking transformation snow scene and outrageous costumes, this will be the biggest, brightest and best HLOC pantomime yet.

Cinderella is a sure family favourite for all ages.

Price: £4.50 - £17.50 Lawrence Batley Theatre Huddersfield, Queen St, Huddersfield HD1 2SP Phone: 01484 430528

Thu 17 Jan

January Comedy Cellar

Intimate, atmospheric and relaxed, our popular monthly Comedy Cellars are the perfect way to experience stand-up in all its spontaneous, electrifying glory.

JO ENRIGHT From I’m Alan Partridge, Phoenix Nights, Life’s Too Short and Dave’s One Night Stand.

‘One of the most naturally gifted comic talents I’ve ever seen’ PETER KAY, MASAI GRAHAM Funniest Joke of the Edinburgh Fringe award winner 2017 and UK Pun Championship winner.

‘A succession of snappy single-liners’ LEICESTER MERCURY Lawrence Batley Theatre Huddersfield, Queen Street, Huddersfield HD1 2SP Phone: 01484 430528

Would you be interested in joining our team? We are currently looking for volunteers to help at our Charity Shops and Events across Calderdale & Kirklees The RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield, Bradford & District Branch is a self funded, local charity and part of the independent branch network of the National RSPCA. Our mission is to rehabilitate and find loving, permanent homes for the animals that come into our care.

We currently have 12 shops across our region and we need enthusiastic, friendly and helpful volunteers to join our team! No experience is necessary, we will provide you with all the support you need to feel confident in your role. Our shops are a vital source of income to our Animal Centre and as we are a self funded RSPCA branch this means every penny counts towards our work and care of local animals in need.

We are also looking to create more awareness and fundraising events in the Huddersfield area but need enthusiastic volunteers to help us achieve this! We have a wonderful ‘Fundraising Family’ but most live in Calderdale and we would really like to extend our fundraising activities into Kirklees.

This would not only raise more funds for the vital work we do in the local area, but also help us reach out to the community to advise on welfare and pet problems!

So are you interested in making a difference with your local RSPCA? Get in touch today!

Contact volunteering@rspcahalifaxhuddersfieldbradford.org.uk or 01422 341160 to find out more about the roles available and how to apply

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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

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Saturday 10th November 2018, The Venue, Barkisland

The Venue set to be transformed for This Winter, Kirkwood Hospice is returning to Narnia for one night only at its annual Charity Ball! The black-tie event, sponsored by Holmfirth Dyers, takes place on Saturday 10th November, and tickets are now on sale.

Guests will step foot into the professionallystaged venue through a The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe-style coat-filled cupboard, before being treated to an evening of entertainment.

On arrival, reception drinks will be served, followed by a four-course dinner by Eric’s Restaurant – the official caterer of The Venue.

Guests will be treated to a dazzlingly unique performance from a special artist, followed by music from a live band. A ‘Grand Auction’ and other fundraisers will also take place during the evening.

“This will most definitely be an immersive event, which is being designed to ‘wow’ our guests.” explains Kirkwood’s Kate Leadbeater.

“Our annual Ball is always a night to remember, but this year we’re going bigger and better with the theme.

Having Eric’s – an established name in Huddersfield – as the caterer is amazing, and the entertainment will be incredible.

We’re so excited to welcome our guests to a night of amazing fun and glamour.

“What happens in Narnia, stays in Narnia, we say!”

Tickets are priced at £59 per person and can be purchased individually or in tables of 8, 10 or 12.

To book your tickets, call Kirkwood Hospice on: 01484 557911 or visit: www.kirkwoodhospice.co.uk/ball Kindly sponsored by:

Kirkwood Hospice is a Registered Charity No. 512987

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Community Living at Wellesley Court Residents of Wellesley Court come from different walks of life, forming friendships in the heart of the Court, the communal lounge.

Regular coffee mornings, lunch clubs, games afternoons and charity events are held in the communal lounge. Jean Harrison, a resident at Wellesley Court, says “It means a lot to me to have the social events on at the Court, I always look forward to the bingo! It’s helped me make friends here and gets me out of my flat.”

The communal facilities at Wellesley Court are a focal point and provide a great space for activities. Residents don’t have to travel far to meet friends, and the sense of community is clear.

Edward Kenworthy, a resident at Wellesley Court says “After I suffered a stroke I couldn’t manage steps where I lived before. Living here has been so much better – I can get around easily and can use the lift. I always attend the coffee mornings and lunch clubs.”

The Court Manager A key element of Housing & Care 21’s service is the Court Manager. The Court Managers are on hand to help residents and ensure the smooth management of their Court. They also support residents by organising any necessary repair work with tradespeople, allowing the residents to spend more time doing things that they enjoy.

When asked about the Court Manager service, Joan England said “It makes me feel safe and secure knowing someone is there.”

Wellesley Court Nestled between Milnsbridge and Golcar in Huddersfield, Wellesley Court has one bedroom apartments available to let for people aged 55 years and older.

There is a shop and post office, a GP surgery and bus stop a five minute walk away.

Wellesley Court has a communal lounge, hairdressers, guest room and attractive gardens which the residents are able to help tend.

Housing & Care 21 is committed to delivering high-quality, affordable housing which allows older people to maintain their independence.

Housing & Care 21 believes in putting residents’ needs first, treating them as individuals by considering their requirements when providing services, to best support their wellbeing and lifestyle.

To find out more about the Court and to arrange a viewing please contact the Court Manager on 0370 192 4956.

Thinking about retirement living?

Private and self-contained, our retirement apartments are designed to allow you to live independently within a community setting.

Studio, one and two bedroom apartments are available to let for people over the age of 55 in West Yorkshire.

To arrange a viewing or for more information, call the Court Manager on 0370 192 4956. housingandcare21.co.uk

HEALTH

Your Doctor

Snacks – try olives, hummus with celery sticks but avoid the temptation of processed foods such as biscuits and crisps.

Try to lose weight. Losing weight can help to increase your insulin sensitivity again and can reduce your diabetic medication requirements. In some cases, it is possible to get patients off all diabetic medications.

Diabetes increases your risk factors for other health issues so make sure you have regular check-ups with your GP. By keeping a blood-sugar diary and a food diary your GP can help you to manage your medications and encourage good lifestyle choices. Blood tests including an HBA1C (long-term blood sugar marker) should be conducted at least 2-3 times per year.

How to Manage Diabetes It is estimated that just under 4 million people have diabetes in the UK. 90% are type 2 diabetics. It is believed that up to a further 1 million people remain undiagnosed.

Type 2 diabetes is due to increasing insulin resistance to raised sugar levels.

This means that your insulin hormones become less effective in storing and dealing with raised blood sugar levels.

This is particularly relevant when consuming large amounts of refined carbohydrates or sugary food and drinks.

Try to exercise daily. This can be as little as 10 mins of moderate activity which can even be split in to two sessions of 5 mins.

Include high quality protein and fat such as such as nuts, avocados, Omega 3 fats (Mackerel, Wild salmon and tuna) virgin olive oil and eggs in every meal.

This helps you to feel full and stabilise your blood sugars.

So what can you do to help deal with your diabetes?

WAYS TO KEEP YOUR HEART HEALTHY In the UK, 435 people lose their lives to heart disease every single day. More than 110 of these people will be under the age of 75, a very small number might even be children. Heart disease is a condition, which can affect anyone so here are ways you can make your heart healthier:

You should do about 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise every week to reduce your risk of heart disease. This is just 30 minutes of exercise, five days a week. This can be broken down into three episodes of 10 min activities.

Try avoiding fruits that are higher in natural sugars like grapes and mangoes and stick to fruits which have a lower sugar content like apricots, raspberries and strawberries.

Reduce your consumption of refined carbohydrates (rice, pasta and bread) which will help to stabilise your sugars.

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At your-doctor, we offer a personalised, bespoke service to help support and plan a programme of diabetes management.

If you’re a smoker take drastic steps to quit to protect yourself from heart disease. Smoking is one of the main causes of coronary heart disease but if you do quit, your risk of having a heart attack falls to about half that of a smoker.

Losing weight and exercising is shown to improve, and in some cases reverse, diabetes by making your insulin more sensitive again.

Avoid sugary drinks (i.e. squashes, soft fizzy drinks) and stick to water, green tea and coffee/tea without sugar or sweetener.

It is also important for patients with diabetes to consider their cholesterol and blood pressure levels as this has an effect on their heart health. It would be recommended that fasting cholesterol blood tests be carried out at least once a year. A six-monthly review of medications would also be part of the GP process.

By Dr Riccardo Di Cuffa, Director and GP at Your Doctor www.your-doctor.co.uk

Stick to a diet low in fats and sugars. If you’re overweight, then you should take steps to lose weight in order to reduce your risk of developing heart disease. If you do this gradually, sugar cravings are minimised.

Drink less alcohol. Regular or high alcohol intake can lead to heart disease called cardiomyopathy. Binge drinking can cause irregular heart rhythms called arrhythmias. Alcohol contains a lot of calories that can have a big impact on how you manage your weight.

Manage stress in your life. Excessive stress over a long period of time can cause heart attacks so it’s important that you do not overwork or overload yourself in order to protect yourself from developing heart disease.

Manage your cholesterol. We need cholesterol to be healthy but an imbalance of cholesterol in your blood can lead to heart attack or stroke. In order to balance your cholesterol, you should eat healthy fats and reduce the amount of processed food, sugar and flour in your diet.

Oily fish contains huge amounts of omega-3 fats, which is a mineral that helps protect against heart disease.

Salmon, sardines and tuna are all great sources of omega-3. However, pregnant women should not eat more than two portions of oily fish a week.

Start eating more fibre. Experts say that 30g of fibre a day can reduce the risk of developing heart disease. You can get fibre from foods like wholemeal bread, bran, oats, potato skins, fruit and vegetables.

Cut down the salt in your diet (particularly sodium salts) as it can affect your blood pressure which increases your risk of heart disease. The salt we consume is usually already in the foods we buy so it’s important to check the labels of what you’re buying. Microwave meals are notorious for having a huge amount of salt in – it’s always better to cook from scratch so you’re more aware of what’s going into your food.

Eat your 5-a-day (at least)! Eating five portions of fruit and vegetables every day will mean your body is absorbing a good amount of vitamins and minerals which in turn will help your body fight against heart disease. There is a push towards 7-10 portions a day but we would encourage you to build this into your diet gradually.

TIPS FOR FAMILY TRAVEL Unfortunately there can be a lot of stress surrounding a family holiday, so Your Doctor has compiled travel health tips to help your holiday run as smoothly as possible:-

Vaccinations - Seek advice from your GP at least eight weeks prior to your trip to ensure you know what you need, what the risks are at your holiday destination, and so that you can make an appointment in advance and the vaccinations have time to work. For general travel information try www. fitfortravel.nhs.uk/home.aspx.

The following travel vaccinations are usually available free on the NHS: diphtheria, polio and tetanus (combined vaccine and usually booster as all children will had this as part of primary immunisation programme in UK), typhoid and sometimes hepatitis A as it is a combined vaccine. Cholera is also available. You are likely to have to pay for other vaccinations privately.

Antimalarial medication varies in how long you should take them for and how far in advance you should take them.

Antimalarial pills are also not 100% effective and there is increasing resistance to them and so you should always try and stop yourself being bitten. Mosquitoes carrying the disease often bite after sunset and so it is a good idea to wear strong repellent and long sleeve clothes after sunset. The Advisory Committee for Malaria Prevention (ACMP) strongly recommends DEET-based insect repellents. There are also diseases spread through mosquito’s that bite during the day (such as Dengue fever) so avoidance measures should be used during day.

Sun safety is incredibly important. In hot climates try and be in the shade particularly between 11am and 3pm and make sure you never burn by covering up, wear a wide brimmed hat and using at least factor 15 sunscreen. Remember to reapply after being in water, also to reapply frequently during time exposed Even not having proper eye protection can cause a temporary but painful burn to the surface of the eye, similar to sunburn. If you do get burnt try having a light shower with cool water and apply after-sun or calamine lotion. Ibuprofen could help reduce inflammation caused by sunburn. Seek medical help if you feel unwell. Extra care should be taken if you have paler skin, freckles, red or fair hair, have many moles, or if there is a family history of skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia. Skin can burn in just 15 minutes in the summer sun – take extra care.

Travel Diarrhoea - In areas where it is difficult to maintain good hygiene and sanitation, travellers are advised to take precautions with food to ensure

it is uncontaminated and cooked thoroughly and that all water has been purified. Always carry sanitising gel or hand wipes. Ensure that clean dishes, cups and utensils are used; use alcohol wipes to clean them if necessary. Where possible choose food that is freshly cooked to a high temperature and served immediately whilst still hot. Be especially cautious with street vendors selling cheese, ice cream, fish and shellfish, salads and fresh herbs (inc in drinks) and fruit. Boiled and bottled water (with intact seal) are usually safe, as are hot tea and coffee, beer and wine. Do not use ice in drinks unless in an established hotel chain. There is an effective antibiotic used for severe cases of travellers’ diarrhoea called Ciprofloxacin. Most cases of traveller diarrhoea are not in fact due to infection but due to the change in mineral content of the water.

Deep Vein Thrombosis - If any of the family may be at risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), seek advice from your GP. Long haul passengers should regularly walk around and stretch their legs on long flights, drink water and preferably avoid alcohol. Wear loose comfortable clothing and antiDVT special socks. If you have a family history of thrombosis or have had a DVT previously, always consult your doctor before travel. Seek medical advice if planning to travel within a month of abdominal or leg surgery Travel Insurance - Make sure you have sufficient travel insurance to cover medical emergencies quickly and efficiently. Take the relevant forms with you.

Managing jetlag for kids - There is no magic solution to avoid jetlag but ensure that you adjust your time to local time and try to keep them active until bedtime. Depending on your age you can use an antihistamine such as Piriton as it has mild sedative properties.

For some it could take a day per hour difference to adjust to time changes.

Managing child vaccination needle phobia - Discuss with a health expert prior to date of vaccination the best way to manage the situation. Choose an environment which is not busy or crowded and where you are not rushed.

Do not take siblings along at same time if possible. Explain to your child beforehand what will be involved. Appear firm and unwavering when proceeding with immunisation. Ensure you child is wearing appropriate clothing which has easy arm exposure for the appointment.

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HEALTH MIGRAINES In the UK, The Migraine Trust has estimated that approximately 190k people a day suffer with a migraine attack. 25 million work or school days are believed to be lost a year and it is estimated that every three in a hundred GP consultations are related to migraines. Migraines are estimated to affect more than 14 % of the world’s population. It is more common than diabetes and asthma.

THE CAUSES What causes an actual migraine is unknown but it is becoming widely accepted that there is a link to a gene which it is believed makes migraine sufferers more sensitive to attacks. It was hypothesized, in the past, that it was due to blood vessel spasms. However, it is now believed to be more complex and related to abnormal brain activity which interferes with nerve signals which affects the chemicals in the brain.

Common symptoms include throbbing headaches, sensitivity to light and noise, nausea and vomiting and lethargy. There are many other triggers which contribute to a migraine and these include dietary, physical, emotional, stress and environmental to name a few.

Migraines and stress are strongly connected. Anxiety, excitement and any form of tension can lead to a migraine attack. It is reported that some migraine attacks start when the stress reduces e.g. a weekend after busy week. Other possible causes are too much caffeine, particular foods, dehydration, skipping meals, eating high sugary foods or poor or very bright lighting.

TREATMENT Most people will respond to oral medication and some people prefer sublingual medications (under the tongue) as the absorption is reported to up to 10 times faster-acting than oral medications. Metoclopramide and anti-emetics can help to combat nausea and gastric stasis by helping to get the gut moving again. This can be of benefit to patients if they can see a GP promptly and have an IM injection.

If patients have persistent symptoms, GP’s may try prophylactic medications to prevent acute attacks although but this means taking daily medications long term.

There are a few true migraine specialists and most GP’s will refer if the symptoms are difficult to manage, there is no regular pattern or they want to rule out other causes such as a tumour.

TIPS FOR AVOIDING MIGRAINES Sleep: Try to go to bed and get up at the same time each day, as sleeping during the correct phase of your circadian cycle is important. Understand your sleep needs, including both the timing and the duration of sleep (most adults need 8 hours a night). Do try and spend some time outdoors or in natural light during the daytime, as this helps your body clock accuracy.

Sleeping environment needs to be peaceful which includes sufficient darkness and quiet, comfortable bedding and no mobiles, tablets, computers etc. around you.

Stress: Try to reduce your stress with exercise, having fun and counselling if you need more help. Focus on getting your work / life balance right.

Exercise: Moderate exercise has been shown by research to help reduce frequency and attacks. Recent studies have shown that exercise changes the levels of a wide range of body chemicals. Exercise stimulates your body to release natural pain-controlling chemicals called endorphins and natural anti-depressant chemicals called enkephalins. A well-planned exercise program could help you to reduce your drug intake to prevent migraines.

If exercise triggers an attack it maybe that you may have started exercising suddenly with no prior planning which means that your body has a sudden demand for oxygen. Eat properly before exercising so that your blood sugar level doesn’t fall quickly and make sure you are well hydrated before and during exercising.

Caffeine: You should restrict your intake to having no more than 4/5 cups of tea or coffee a day. Some people find that suddenly stopping caffeine altogether can also be a trigger factor. If you suspect this, you may wish to cut down on caffeine more gradually. Caffeine can be found in many products including chocolate and some over the counter painkillers.

Skipping meals/ dehydration: Low consumption of food is probably one of the most important dietary triggers. You may find that regularly eating balanced meals can help to control your attacks. Mild dehydration can also trigger migraine. It is recommended that you should drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, as well as other drinks you may have. Fizzy drinks can contain the sweetener aspartame which should be avoided as these may trigger migraines for some people.

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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.

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

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• 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 the York, oak veneered coffin and gold embellishments

• The provision of the York, oak veneered coffin and gold embellishments.

• 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

Springhead Funeral Service

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

Tel: 01422 327 382

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Tel: 01484 534 488

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

Pre-paid Funerals

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