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LIVERPOOL, SOUTHPORT & WEST LANCS NOVEMBER - JANUARY 2014 EDITION 37

Gloria Hunniford Talks of the early days, health & more...

Aquability Easy, Safe Bathing

Make 2014 Your Year!

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

e

REMEMBER WHEN

AT CHRISTMAS

The country’s most popular Christmas matinee nostalgia show will be heading to The Floral Hall, The Promenade, Southport on

Thursday 5th December at 2.30pm.

Giving you the chance to start Christmas in style with this delightful and unforgettable afternoon trip down memory lane back to a time Christmas really was so special.

We can all be dreaming of a White Christmas and watching Chestnuts Roasting on an open fire, with Neil Sands and his brilliant cast of West End performers who will have you singing along to all your festive favourites including; Rocking Around The Christmas Tree, Merry Christmas Everyone, Silent Night, The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year, O Come All ye Faithful, Let It Snow, Frosty The Snow Man, Jingle Bell Rock, Away In A Manger, We Need A Little Christmas, Sleigh Ride, Winter Wonderland, Santa Baby and many, many more.

This enchanting Christmas production now in its 7th sell out year with a brand new show for this year, is a truly wonderful mixture of great songs, stunning costumes, lots of good old fashioned festive fun, and a unique atmosphere that will warm your heart on the coldest winters day, taking you back to a time when Christmas really was the most wonderful time of the year.

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Festive Finances Keeping on top of Christmas

Love it or loathe it, there’s no denying that the festive season is just around the corner. Whether you’re getting ready to celebrate, safe in the knowledge that your Christmas shopping is ready and wrapped or, like us, you plan to do it all last minute, keeping one eye on your festive finances can help take the sting out of the New Year. The good news is that you don’t have to be Scrooge to save money in the countdown to Christmas.

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14-15 23-35

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We spoke to the Financial Ombudsman Service for their “five gold” tips to avoid a money-related mishap this season:

Buy now, pay later: if you’re buying an expensive gift you

might be tempted to take advantage of an interest-free credit deal on a loan or credit card. Interest-free deals can not only help you spread the cost but can offer you extra protection if the item doesn’t show up or wasn’t as described. If you do take advantage of the offer, make sure you know when the interest-free period ends as repayments after this date can be expensive. And, as always, never borrow more than you can afford to repay.

Pricey presents: many people are sticking to a smaller budget

inside...

6-7

Ancient Turkey...

Discover the Great Empires of Caria and Lycia.

8-9

Robinsons Holidays...

Affordable peace of mind. Win an 8 day holiday for 2. Find out more on page 27.

10-11 Gloria Hunniford...

talks of the early days, health & more.

14-15 Perfect Home & Space...

The psychology of home spaces.

23-25 Food & Drink...

Low Fat Winter Warmers 32-33 Make 2014 Your Year...

Tips to revamp your life in the New Year.

McGrath Media.

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

for Christmas this year – buy you may still have a higher-value surprise or two for your loved ones under your tree. If you do, don’t forget to check your contents insurance policy or speak to your insurer. You may find those perfect presents are not fully covered if they are stolen or damaged

White Christmas: are you dreaming of a snowy start to

Christmas day? Chances are it will be cold, so if you’re warming up your car engine before you head out, don’t leave the car unattended with your keys in the ignition. You could find that you’re not covered by your motor insurance policy if a passing opportunist thief pinches it while your back’s turned.

Bank holiday blues: no-one wants to think of money-matters when you’re having fun over the holidays. But it pays to keep an eye on payment dates for bills and direct debits over the holiday period. Bank holidays are not ‘working days’ for banks so payments may be delayed - or bounced if you don’t have cleared funds in your account early Get away: are you lucky enough to be escaping the cold

Christmas? Check your travel insurance policy in advance so you know what you are – and more importantly are not covered for. Keep your policy documents and contact telephone numbers to hand too, in case you need to make claim

The majority of people will have a hassle-free holiday; however, if a problem arises the ombudsman can help you get it sorted.

Telephone 0300 123 9 123 or visit www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk

OPEN

FREE ENTRY AND PARKING

The Farmers Market & Craft Centre

TUES - SAT 10AM-5PM SUN 10.30AM - 4.30PM & BANK HOLIDAYS

at Heskin Hall Estate

5 MINS FROM J27 M6, 2 MINS FROM CHARNOCK RICHARD SERVICES

Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 5PA • 07599 831907 • www.heskinfarmersmarket.co.uk

FOOD HALL ~ CRAFTS ~ ANTIQUES ~ TEA ROOM

Relax, dine and shop at Heskin Hall Estate Over 40 shops and businesses including: leading art gallery, high quality butchers, florist and plant centre, craft studios, food shops, ladies & gents clothing, gifts with a difference, handbags and jewellery, childrens clothing & toys, hair & beauty, furniture, fredericks ice cream, Hoggs of Fife Country Clothing, Ladybird Lounge Craft Cafe and much more…

The Two Birds Tea Room

Why not relax and enjoy our freshly made paninis, toasties, sandwiches, soups and salads made using our fresh local produce. Summer specials and Sangria now available.

Heskin Hall Free Range Butchers We have a wide range of high quality meats and products including beef, lamb, pork, chicken, turkey, venison, water buffalo and selection of game.

Try our freshly made quality sausages, tasty meat balls, beef burgers, buffalo burgers and stir-fries.

Our beef and lamb comes from our own free range herds, 100% grass fed, producing the highest quality meats and the very best natural flavour.

All of our other meats and products are also carefully sourced from free range farms and producers.

Bracken Country Clothing A wide range of top quality country wear for both men and women at discounted prices.

All sizes available in a wide range of colours.

From agricultural use or just for the man or woman who loves the feel and look of the country side.

Orders are welcomed and if we don’t have your desired item in stock arrangements can be made to have the item delivered within 5 working days!

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Units available, email: info@heskinfarmersmarket.co.uk

Mobile moments of madness

There have been moments recently when I have been sorely tempted to launch my mobile telephone into orbit, pre-programmed to crash to earth on Richard Branson’s head.

Since the beginning of the year my signal from the Virgin network had been gradually worsening often to the point where using a carrier pigeon would have been more effective. Of course the first line of defence for all mobile phone companies are the foreign call centres where everyone is called Godfrey or Marion and you know they’ve never been called that in their life. They’re irritatingly polite and heavily scripted on how to deal with awkward customers going ballistic down the phone and threatening to do all manner of unspeakable things.

“Oh we’re very sorry for the inconvenience Mr Graham,” trilled

one after 45 minutes on the helpline which was the cut off, probably because a passing pigeon had blocked the one bar of signal which I was using. They want you to give in and go away don’t they?

“Oh we’ll be giving you another 3,000 texts as compensation Mr Graham, isn’t that wonderful?”

No! I want to speak to someone not write everything in text, I replied, quietly steaming and thinking of what I’d like to do with the operator’s headset.

Many calls later I was allowed permission to speak to the technical department and, amazingly, I actually understood what he was saying. Virgin had decommissioned a mast close to our area and the signal was weakened because of it and there were no plans to recommission it in the future. Oh

Spreading the news A North Shields man loves Marmite so much that he’s changed his surname by deed poll to match the yeast spread.

Mr Marmite, 38, says he easily gets through a jar a week and also collects Marmite paraphernalia including limited edition jars, cufflinks and a recipe book dating back to the Second World War.

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I was in a quandary about who to go to for service, or should I revert back to the two syrup tins and a length of string which had been so effective in my youth? And cheaper. I settled for Talk Talk but for three days that was precisely what I couldn’t do, talk, until numbers had been ported, sims transferred and I had to threaten to separate at least three help line operators from their important bits.

My wife opted for a package with one of those tablet come Kindly wotsit gadgets. It’s amazing the stuff they have now, even a phone that reacts when you look at it. I’m hanging on until they have one which soothes you when you can’t make a phone call, brews tea and makes a bacon sandwich. Sorry, just having another moment of mobile madness!

Tyred of wasted money It seems to me that an incredible amount of money is wasted on rather useless items, many in the name of education.

Saire May - now Marmite - made the leap to show his ‘devotion and passion’ to the dark brown paste.

“I’m not exactly sure how old I was when I first tried Marmite, but I just remember eating it as far back as I can remember,” he said.

“I like the smell, the taste, the texture.

I think I pretty much like everything about it.”

nice, I live high on the Yorkshire moors and Graham Smith would have thought there Twitter Column was plenty of room for a new mast, but no, said the technical man. I was put through to the public relations department and a very polite chap confirmed that my signal would not improve and I was free to leave Virgin without penalty!

Our local school has just unveiled a “tyre park” which has cost a staggering £10,000. Now how many swimming lessons or creative activities could that money have bought instead of dumping a pile of old painted tyres for pupils to clamber across?

“My family think I’m mad. However my mum just shrugged her shoulders, she expects this kind of thing from me,” he added.

It’s the sort of silly idea which could spread.

In my schooldays we were quite happy with a playground area where we fashioned wickets from a dustbin, chalked goalposts on the wall and if anyone had dumped a load of old tyres there we’d have thrown them out.

Progress?

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50 Plus Travel

sponsored by

Patara Ruins

By Mathew Simpson Simpson Travel www.simpsontravel.com

us with a fascinating insight into the burial customs of the inhabitants of this ancient city. The location of the tombs also helps us to understand the way of life in ancient Lycia and Caria, as they believed that a winged creature carried the deceased to the after world, therefore the burial chambers were constructed on a cliff face. Whilst the entire landscape of Lycia is scattered with a selection of

Ancient Turkey:

Discover the Great Empires of Caria and Lycia Turkey is home to numerous ruins

landscape, diverse wildlife and ancient

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and influential regions in antiquity,

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is an area rich in natural beauty and

Tombs that are set high up in the cliff

historical attractions. Until the late

face above the Dalyan Delta. They

1980s, this traditional fishing area

were constructed for the Carian city

remained somewhat undiscovered

of Caunos around 400BC to house the

by tourists, despite its impressive

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fascinating funeral monuments, it is these on the Dalyan Delta that are considered the most imposing and awe-inspiring tombs of the ancient region. At night time the tombs are lit up creating a dramatic, atmospheric backdrop to the delta which can be seen for miles.

Caunos itself is another fascinating attraction. The largest ancient city in the Carian era, it was constructed, according to Greek mythology, by Apollo’s grandson. Those who visit these iconic ruins can discover remains of many different parts of the old city which were uncovered during an excavation, from the ancient amphitheatre to the traditional Hellenistic and Roman temples, to name a few.

Further eastwards, Kalkan lies at the heart of some of the most impressive Lycian sites. Xanthos was a site of exceptional importance in antiquity as it is thought to have been a main centre for culture and commerce.

Extensive excavations and research of the area have led to the discovery of a selection of texts in the Lycian

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language and Greek, as well as a considerable amount of artefacts.

Iztuzu Beach

The British Museum now houses two tombs, the Nereid monument and the Tomb of Payava, both of which were discovered at the ruins. Another tomb, known as the Harpy Tomb, is still located at the remains of the city. Only 4kms south of Xanthos, positioned on the banks of the Xanthos River, is one of the most important religious centres in the region – Letoon – where the foundations of temples can be seen. A further remain – the ancient city of Patara – can also be found in this historically rich region. Excavated in the 1980s, a magnificent Roman arch can be admired, as well as an impressive theatre. Once a prosperous

Bozburun Peninsula

commercial city, the ruins are positioned just a short distance from Patara Beach – one of the most photographed beaches in the Mediterranean.

There are also a number of other smaller sites and one of the more interesting and unusual ones is nearby Kekova which is home to the semi-sunken city of Simena. Originally a fishing village, a 2nd century earthquake had devastating effects on Simena – however it left behind an exceptional historical site. Half of the ancient houses have become submerged, with staircases leading down underwater, where the foundations of the buildings and an old harbour can be found. In 1990, this region was declared a protected area, prohibiting swimming and diving.

Further north and on its own peninsula lies the unspoilt rural region of Bozburun, yet another area which is home to other interesting historical settlements located in ancient Caria. From here, you can explore the ancient Greek settlement of Knidos, located just a short drive away on the nearby Datça Peninsula, a ruin that is built partly on the mainland and partly on the Island of Triopion which, in antiquity, was connected to the mainland by a bridge.

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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INTERVIEW: GLORIA HUNNIFORD

Gloria Hunniford talks of the early days, health & more...

By Angela Kelly

Gloria Hunniford was just enjoying a few weeks near Nice in France with her husband when we chatted.

It marked a particularly busy time when she had been filming more programmes for the TV hit series Ripoff Britain, which had been extended 10

to cover rip-offs on holidays and on food. And Ms Hunniford, now a lovely 73 year-old with the beautiful skin and enduring looks typical of Irish people, always tries to look after herself.

“You need to keep balance, avoid being thrown off kilter,” she explains. “It’s very easy when you’re busy but I do try to take holidays and eat and sleep properly.”

She’s also a great fan of vitamins, which she takes each day, and admits

to “a certain amount of exercise”, usually walking the dogs or using her exercise bike in front of the TV. “I’ve just lost two stone, though,” she states. “It wasn’t a vanity thing – my sister was diagnosed with diabetes and I asked the doctor what I should do to avoid it. Losing weight seemed a sensible idea so I cut out both sugar and carbohydrates and the weight just dropped off.”

It feels like the popular broadcaster has always been with us. Radio and TV audiences love her, and Gloria has the enduring charm that people of all ages and both sexes find attractive and easygoing.

I once stood next to her in an aiport queue as she took a flight to her native Ireland and her fellow travellers were plainly fascinated by the VIP in their

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midst, but also very warm to her.

She was named after the actress Gloria Swanson but early on she became a singer, entertaining at her dad’s concerts. He was a newspaper man by day and a magician by night.

She spent time in Canada, singing on TV and performing listeners’ Irish song requests on the radio, then returned home where she joined ITV’s new Ulster Television as a production assistant. She continued her singing, though, and got a record in the Ulster charts in 1969.

After she was interviewed on BBC radio, the producer asked her to audition as an interviewer, then hired her for Northern Ireland’s equivalent of the Today programme.

She cut her teeth on news and current affairs, moved on to a nightly news programme and finally ended up invited to work in London. Here, her friendly Irish accident and warm manner quickly won over fans. She filled in for Jimmy Young while he was on holiday, and the banter between her and Terry Wogan – whom she already knew – at the end of the programme swiftly enhanced her reputation. People felt she was a familiar friend on the air.

She was given her own show, Gloria Hunniford’s Open House, and was a daily TV fixture for five years. She still makes appearances on The One Show and became a regular once more on our screens with another very popular series Cash in the Attic, which she loves.

“They’ve got about 20 programmes already made but they’ve also now launched an interactive website and an app which is all very exciting because you can go onto the site anytime you want to, anywhere,” she says enthusiastically.

“I love that programme – I’m a great fan of antiques and I’ve collected them myself for years. I collected so many angels and cherubs one of my sons forbade me to bring any more home!

And I’ve also collected teapots and jewellery crosses.”

She loves the surprises that people get when items they discover go to auction, and thoroughly enjoys the celebrity version. “I’m always amazed at how generous the celebrities are in donating items that can be sold for charity,” she adds.

The Rip-off Britain series is another favourite with her. “I think we came along at just the right time with that brand,” she states. “The recession was just beginning and people felt even more aggrieved if they were being ripped off.”

She is proud of the fact that the evening version draws a regular audience of 5.5 million viewers “and the daytime programme has very respectable figures, too,” she asserts.

Work is plainly far from drying up for the evergreen presenter but she’s quick to state that she actually wants to work.

“I enjoy work, and I’d hope to keep on working for as long as people want me to,” she adds.

She and her second husband, Stephen Way, live in Sevenoaks, Kent, and family life is obviously very important to her. Her presenter daughter, Caron Keating, died from breast cancer after a brave fight in 2004 and any parent can start to imagine the personal devastation that brought.

“I’ve had loss before, but nothing prepares you for the terrible darkness that descends when a child dies,” says Gloria. “It’s like trying to climb out of a big hole by your fingertips and, just when you think you’re at the top, something drags you back.

“I felt like that for a long time, and many of the people who contacted us when Caron died – we had more than 8,000 letters – said it never really goes away.”

But one person’s letter did strike a chord with Gloria, and showed the way ahead for her. It was someone who

“ I enjoy work, and I’d hope to keep on working for as long as people want me to” pointed out the importance of carrying Caron’s spirit forward, “I just felt then that I knew what I wanted to do,” she recalls.

Gloria founded the Caron Keating Foundation, administered by the family and with all the funds raised being used to help charities concerned with all kinds of cancer.

The result is that, over the past years, the foundation has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds which have gone to projects at 47 different cancer charities all around the country.

This is obviously a source of some consolation to Gloria and her family, although you suspect that Caron is in her thoughts every day. “Someone said that people never die if they remain on the lips of the living,” she states, “and I believe that.”

* To visit the Cash in the Attic website, go to CashInTheAttic.com

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Now in Lancashire, a local company is helping customers with mobility problems have less pain, be more comfortable and enjoy life.

DO YOU SUFFER FROM POOR MOBILITY AND CAN’T SIT COMFORTABLY? YOU’RE NOT GOING CRAZY! Clinical studies have shown that certain poorly fitted recliners can make your mobility issues worse.

If you suffer from hours of back pain or aching legs, you know how painful and draining these conditions can be. One sufferer wrote: “I just can’t can seem to get comfortable no matter what I do. I can’t sit for more than 10 minutes. It’s physically draining not being able to sit or sleep.”

Have you been everywhere, tried everything and - Fast Track delivery of 48 hours on over 1000 products. are still suffering?

- Advice from expert staff in a relaxed and non-pressure sales environment.

Many of the symptoms you likely suffer from are invisible. You may look fine, but beneath the surface - Coffee and biscuits while you take your time deciding. you are exhausted and in excruciating pain.

My Name is Darren Douglas and I am the owner of the ‘Recliner Lounge’ Comfort Studio in Lancashire.

Do you suffer from any of the Over the past nearly ten years we have used our following symptoms? knowledge and expertise to help thousands of sufferers who have symptoms such as aching joints, * Aching limbs and joints disturbed sleep, fatigue, stiffness, Arthritis, * Disturbed sleep Rheumatism, MS and numerous other ailments. Our * Fatigue or stiffness aim is to make you feel better and live a healthier and * Arthritis, Rheumatism, MS more joyful life. We can help show you why the * Poor circulation * Other mobility restrictions/disabilities chair you use at the moment may be doing you more harm than good.

Contrary to what some people may believe, these symptoms are more Because of this, I’m running a special offer for o common than you may think. You’re not people with any of the ailments listed above. For this alone.There are numerous studies month only we are offering a free 5 year showing that the furniture you sit on can warranty, free installation and a free care kit on improve your health or can actually any Comfort studio Riser Recliner. This offer is intensify your pain if you are using the worth an incredible £135. incorrect type of recliner.

What does this offer include?

Winston J. Warme, M.D. Associate - In-depth help from our trained staff. sta Professor at UW Orthapaedics & Sports - Over 40 different Riser Recliners to choose from.

Medicine in Washington USA reported - VAT exemption available for qualifying customers sleeping in a recliner may considerably (saving you a further 20%) reduce the pain caused by Arthritis.

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Recliners Direct Ltd (Head Ofice & Showroom) 42 Hough Lane, Leyland, Preston, Lancashire PR25 2SA T: 01772 623001 / 01772 623012 E: reclinersdirect@blueyonder.co.uk W: www.reclinersdirect.co.uk

NO PRESSURE SALES, NO INTIMIDATION AND FAST DELIVERY So feel free to visit one of our comfort studios Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm and Sunday 10am - 4pm, or call us on (01772) 623001 or (01704) 530968.

IF YOU SUFFER FROM A LONG TERM DISABILITY, THERE IS HOPE. My team and I look forward to helping you sit comfortably again, so you can start living a healthier and more enjoyable life.

Yours Sincerely, Darren Douglas.

P.S. Imagine how great you could feel without constant fatigue and nagging pains. Imagine jumping out of your recliner or bed and enjoying a more active day, no more getting up feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck.

Imagine not having to take handfuls of pills that haven’t helped much and have dangerous side effects.

What would it feel like to have hope again?

Recliners Direct Ltd (Southport Showroom) 21-23 Shakespeare Stret, Southport, Mersyside PR8 5AB T: 01704 530968 www.50plusmagazine.co.uk E: southport@reclinersdirect.co.uk W: www.reclinersdirect.co.uk

The Recliner Lounge The Home of Comfort

The Recliner Lounge’s Comfort Studio in Leyland has opened a 2nd flagship showroom in Southport and is Merseyside’s first recliner specialist. Based just 5 minutes from the famous Lord Street, it is ideally located for customers to visit from surrounding areas. We pride ourselves on being product specialists and endeavour to offer world class recliners at affordable prices.

One of the most remarkable things about The Recliner Lounge is that we carry a huge amount of stock in our own dedicated warehouse, meaning we can offer our customers FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY to anywhere in the UK! The Recliner Lounge is a family run company that has grown rapidly since its founding in 2005. After initially establishing ourselves as an on-line business with numerous websites, the need became apparent to open a showroom for customers to come and try the chairs so that they could make a more informed decision when purchasing reclining furniture. In 2008 we opened a small showroom in Leyland which we very quickly outgrew. We moved to a larger showroom on the high street in Leyland in 2011 and also moved to a 100,000 sq foot purpose built warehouse to accommodate the amount of stock we now carry.

Our new showroom is on Shakespeare Street in Southport and has many unique features such as a cinema seating gallery, Dedicated Massage recliner studio, Large Swivel recliner and Riser Recliner Gallery and many other recliner products. The showroom also has its own customer car-park with ramp entrance and wheel-chair access, making it ideal for all customers including those with mobility issues.

We also have a separate ground floor disabled toilet located in our showroom, again with wheel-chair access.

To complement our showrooms, we have a large website with over a 2000 products featured online...

www.reclinersdirect.co.uk There are no long delivery lead times, no delivery charges, and we even offer a 14 day returns policy. (Terms and Conditions Apply) Please see our website or contact us for more details.

Our showroom is fully stocked with a massive range of reclining chairs starting at £199.00. When visiting our showroom, you can experience the comfort and variety of a huge range of recliners including; swivel, manual, massage, electric and riser recliners.

Our specialist team can offer you friendly advice in a relaxed atmosphere, so why not call in and visit us; we are open 7 days a week.

TOP TIPS FOR

WALL COVERING 1. Wallpaper can bring so much more to a room than paint alone – warmth, texture, colour and patterns. So transform what may be an otherwise mundane room in to something spectacular.

2. Choosing the correct wallpaper can be a daunting process due to the never-ending array of different colours, textures and patterns on offer. Don’t panic, the right one is out there but it’s important to have an idea in your mind, or even sketched out, of what you’re looking for beforehand so as not to be too overwhelmed.

3. Be careful when choosing wallpaper with a pattern, a dramatic pattern can make one person feel nauseous whilst the other exhilarated. Think about how you might react when seeing that pattern and consider the tendencies of friends and family who may be visiting regularly too. The last thing you want is to make someone uncomfortable before they’ve barely passed the threshold.

4. Wallpapers displaying optical illusions are proven to cause the eyes to vibrate, making us feel dizzy or suspicious of movement in the paper. Fortunately manufactures nowadays are aware of such psychological effects and rigorous tests are conducted prior to production. Even so I would double check whether a psychedelic print is really what you want to be showcased.

5. Wallpaper designers often thrive off what a person may discover in their paper and editions of Toile de Jouy and other modern cartoon styles can hide witty depictions of everyday life. Such paper can be used to tell a story and makes an excellent feature wall. I love Timorous Beasties’ New York Toile and London Toile wallcoverings though please do look carefully before plastering it on your walls!.

6. The cost of wallpaper significantly varies in price. Whilst you may be able to collect some rolls for as little as £10, others which are hand blocked and of unique design can escalate to hundreds of pounds for the same quantity.

7. Choosing to have a one-off pattern or style of wallpaper may seem like your perfect option, but realistically the plethora of different styles available makes it rather unnecessary particularly considering the possibly high price you will be faced with.

8. Textured wallpaper can add amazing value to a room, whilst patterns tend to date over the years, textured wallpaper will always contribute to a room without being too overly offensive to the fashionistas. I recommend Harlequin’s Bakari collection. Murapsec and Tektura also have some brilliant commercial width textured papers.

9. Flocking made its foray into the interior design market in the early 17th century and its comeback has been evident for some years. The benefit in having wallpaper is you can choose something bold and brave, so be daring and choose something with added WOW factor.

10. Finally wallpaper is the ultimate accessory for disguising flaws whether it’s helping to adjust the perceived proportions of a room, adding a touch of sophistication and elegance or simply trying to make the room become more alive. What’s not to love about it?

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IN PURSUIT OF THE PERFECT HOME AND SPACE

In pursuit of the

PERFECT HOME AND SPACE Whether your house feels empty now the children have flown the nest, you have retired and want to make some changes to your home, or you feel your home no longer reflects your personality, Niki Schäfer, founder of interior design company Dwell-Being says we psychologically need different spaces to create our perfect home.

Schäfer explains: “Understanding and appreciating space in a home is essential. We need space to think clearly, we need space to cook a meal, we need space to breathe and get away from it all, we need head space, me space and we certainly need space for our shoes/ power tools! If the children have left home, the house which has been dominated by the family way of life for probably more than two decades can all of a sudden feel like a quiet shell particularly if the mother has been a ‘stay at home mum’. It can feel liberating but can also often feel lonely and empty and can involve quite a process of reflection and style rediscovery, before you can look at the house that will be with you for the next exciting chapter in your lives.

“Some of us plan on living beyond our 100th year and therefore 50 is really only half way through life so it can be a wonderful time for change! The house does perhaps in time need to reflect changes in current and forthcoming lifestyle though, especially if it is a large investment such as a new home build or complete refurbishment. I have a client who is designing a lift 14

into their home despite being very agile and healthy, but they know there will come a time for the lift rather than the stairs. Getting this balance right is key.

Understanding what your future holds is exciting but it needs to be practical too.

“Generally the plus 50’s know how much money they have. University fees are coming to an end and hopefully the children are earning their own income so the household finances start to look in much better shape if future investments have been catered for.

Their experience in life also means they know where to invest in longer term pieces like furniture to be inherited and where to have some short term fun such as with accessories.”

Schäfer stresses our homes have an impact on our health: “Your home environment is more than just four walls and a lick of paint. It can dictate how you feel.

It can boost your self-esteem; it can calm you down, or make you more productive. Our environment is so much more than the latest wallpaper or a stunning pair of curtains. How is your home space working for you - does it give you the breathing space you so desperately crave? Does it feel organised and efficient and equally comforting and secure? Does it reflect your personality and who you really are? If the answer is no to any of these questions, your home could be affecting your well-being.”

This subtle blend of psychology and interior design is what underpins Schäfer’s company, Dwell-Being, and has helped countless families and individuals to make their dream space a reality. Schäfer’s eclectic experience of living in over 100 homes, including the most unlikely of places such as a cheese cake factory in New York and a railway station in Scotland, makes her well qualified in creating space.

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Niki Schäfer’s seven steps create the three foundations to a home – the act of personal style, the science of family thinking and the discipline of house rules: 1) Outer Space - Understanding what home really

means to you is important. Where do you want to live?

What neighbourhood is right for you? What do you want your home to look like? What facilities and local resources do you need close by? All of this has to be thought through very carefully as you make those vital decisions about buying (or whether to stay in) your home.

2) Me Space - A home is a blank canvas for you to express your personality, your aspirations and also a safe place for your memories. Figuring out your own personal style isn’t as difficult as you might think and once you’ve worked it out it’s such a pleasure to shop for your home.

3) Head Space - Finding the time to design and decorate a home can be one of the most difficult hurdles to pass. We have so much to do and we juggle so much.

Working out why we are doing all the things we are doing (so much on autopilot!) and getting rid of what’s not really helping us can save a huge amount of time.

4) Thinking Space - We all think differently in the

home, even our children who we mould and love turn out to have very different ways of thinking. Thinking space is a space in the house that really needs to be understood if the home is to be harmonious.

5) Dream Space - Bedrooms have become such busy spaces, places where we work, sleep and keep entertained. This isn’t helping us in our stressful lives. A bedroom is a place to relax in and to recuperate at the end of the day; not to feel more stressed by. Design a space to dream in.

6) Breathing Space - We are spending so much time consumed by technology and screen time that we forget about the simple pleasures. Finding somewhere to sit quietly in our home and simply breathe is an invaluable space. Creating the habit of stopping for a moment or two with a drink, or maybe just to drink up the view, does our wellbeing the world of good. Have a space to stop rushing.

7) Heart Space - Designing a space in the heart of

the home – the kitchen, dining and family room is a way to ensure that our family communicates well. Creating a place where the family comes together every day, where they can share stories and feel supported is an undeniably important space in the house. This is more than physical space; this is the space we need to give to others, to hear what’s truly going on in their lives, not to simply pay lip-service to it.

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Schäfer concludes: “Harnessing the importance of each of our seven spaces and learning how to make them beautiful and appealing to everyone who uses them is an art and a science. After all, our environment is so much more than the colour of the walls and what furniture we choose. It’s only when we’re in an environment that’s perfectly suited to us, that we can truly be ourselves.”

Written by

Niki Schäfer founder of

Dwell Being www.dwell-being.co.uk

15

Stoves, Fires and Fireplaces

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FREE SURVEYS BESPOKE FIREPLACE DESIGN SERVICE www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

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Bacteria growth is reduced by over 99% with Microshield integrated into the Princess shower. Microshield will not wash off or wear away; it keeps the shower more hygienic and therefore fresher and cleaner.

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Post coupon to: FREEPOST BATHING SOLUTIONS (No further address details required).

17

I Did It

Be Your Own Boss!

That’s the message to Merseyside’s army of potential entrepreneurs from local business advisers.

Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens and Wirral Chambers of Commerce have joined forces to deliver Enterprising Merseyside, an ambitious project to help over 500 local people to start their own business.

Business start-up adviser Trevor Snelson, explains: “Whatever your background and whatever stage you are at in life, we can help you be your own boss.

“Starting and running your own business can be an exciting, rewarding, experience, but it can also be daunting and hard work.

“The Enterprising Merseyside programme will give you all the advice and support you need to get started – and keep going. You’ll be able access specialist support from our experienced advisers and mentors, get a place on our regular business start-up courses and stay in contact with us every step of the way.”

Taking the plunge for themselves into self-employment are three former work colleagues who have launched a social enterprise to support families living with neurodevelopmental conditions including ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and autism.

Drawing on their own work experience and personal experience of living with family members with neurodevelopmental conditions, the women decided to launch the venture after identifying a need for community based services.

They set up Liverpool-based ADDvanced Solutions to establish community networks across the region and provide learning, support and health and wellbeing activities to families living with neurodevelopmental conditions within their own communities.

Despite setting up less than a year ago, the social enterprise has already worked with dozens of parents and demand for the service is increasing.

“We help families develop skills and knowledge so they can better communicate for themselves and support the needs of their families,” explains Rita Jones, 57 who set up ADDvanced Solutions with business partners Vanda Reeves and Louise Hankinson.

“We want to empower parents to take control of the situation they are in, be able to share their knowledge as they develop and learn and become advocates for their family whilst helping others within their community.

Vanda adds: “Parents tell us that it is really good to be able to regularly meet other people in their own community with similar experiences and that they have learned so many new skills to help their children at home and at school.”

“We feel passionately that families should be provided with support tailored to what they need, in an environment in which they feel comfortable and safe,” continues Rita, who explained that whilst there are services available, they can be patchy and families often need to travel some distance to access them.

ADDvanced Solutions aims to equip families and professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to better understand and support families to lead a fulfilling and inclusive life.

Prior to setting up their venture Rita and Vanda studied education at Edge Hill University to broaden their knowledge and develop the skills to help others. They have since received an enterprise grant from the university as well as advice and mentoring from Enterprising Merseyside.

The three women have also launched a training consultancy to help finance the social enterprise and have won a clutch of contracts to deliver training services to local authorities and schools.

“Our ultimate aim is to create a cycle of progression and a community of people throughout Merseyside and across the North West and therefore, we are looking to attain long term sustainability to achieve this.” adds Rita.

For more details about ADDvanced Solutions, contact their office on 0151 486 1788 or visit www.addvancedsolutions.co.uk Funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Enterprising Merseyside delivers regular ‘Be Your Own Boss’ seminars and a full programme of support including help with writing a business plan, tax and finance, marketing, and much more. Support is available to people living in Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens and Wirral.

Anybody thinking of starting up their own business should contact Enterprising Merseyside now on 0845 340 9980 now or visit fb.com/enterprisingmerseyside to find out details of their nearest workshop.

“Our aim is to help families to increase their self-awareness, leading to better self-management, family relationship management and increased emotional resilience, which better helps them to cope with the stigma they often feel.”

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HEALTH AND WELLBEING any current issues with the help and support of your GP. The screenings can also help you understand your future risk of health problems so you can take action, and make appropriate lifestyle changes.

2. Diet boosts: Boost Your Health by Eating Breakfast.

Skipping breakfast has been consistently associated with various health risks. It’s not just an old wives tale! Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day, but why?

Get Empowered with 5 Steps to a Healthier and Happier You Dietitian and health coach Andrew Wilson shares expert advice Andrew Wilson is a Registered Dietitian and Member of the British Dietetic Association. Andrew specialises in weight management and has recently launched a free webinar aimed at addressing some common weight loss mistakes: www.livelighterin50days. com Andrew also writes a blog aimed at helping people understand how some ‘weight loss diets’ can cause health problems: www.dangerousdiets.co.uk Finding the willpower to make positive changes to your lifestyle can be challenging. That’s why Life Line Screening, the UK’s largest provider of mobile preventive health screenings, is now partnering with dietitian and health coach, Andrew Wilson.

Making small and simple lifestyle changes can improve your health, and even have a positive impact on your emotional wellbeing.

Say YES to a healthier life 20

Sticking to a healthy diet and taking regular exercise can be a challenge when we’re busy, so don’t be tempted to set unrealistic goals. The good news is, saying ‘yes’ to a healthier lifestyle can be easy when you take one small step at a time.

“Diet and lifestyle habits play an important part in substantially reducing our risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Making small positive changes to your lifestyle can help you lead a healthier and happier life.” says dietitian, health and weight loss coach Andrew Wilson.

To kick-start your new routine, Andrew Wilson has provided some expert advice to help you develop healthy new habits:

5 Steps to a Healthier You: 1. Get checked: Getting a health screening is a good way to learn more about the status of your health. Understanding your health condition allows you to tackle

Health benefits of eating breakfast: Encourages a Healthy Heart: New research by Harvard University, confirms that eating a healthy breakfast regularly can help to reduce the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol - factors which can give rise to heart attack and heart disease.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Eating breakfast in the morning can help to stabilize blood sugar levels and speed up metabolism, essential for regulating appetite and preventing obesity.

This means you’ll feel less hungry mid-morning – helping you to resist unhealthy snacks and allowing you to opt for healthier lunch meals.

Keeps you happy, energized & mentally focused: When we wake up in the morning our muscles and brain need fuel to function efficiently throughout the day. Eating breakfast helps to provide a rush of essential vitamins and nutrients that boosts energy levels, concentration, memory and even mood!

Choosing the right breakfast foods: A healthy breakfast should include a variety of foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole-grains, dairy and lean protein. On busy mornings, it can be all too easy to skip breakfast. Why

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not try our quick and healthy breakfast tips to help kick-start your day?

include oats, granary bread and brown rice.

of happiness with physical, emotional and mental well being.

10 Quick, Easy and Healthy Breakfast Tips

Enjoy foods high in fat and sugar, but in moderation - foods high in fat and sugar, such as cakes, biscuits, chocolate and fried foods all taste good but in large amounts can raise your cholesterol, put weight on and won’t help your heart health in the long term.

If you like to eat these foods, don’t cut them out altogether as this may make you want them even more. Instead, reduce the quantity and how often you have them, saving them for special occasions.

Some studies have correlated happiness with a stronger immune system, better ability to cope with stress, positive mood, greater pain endurance, longer life-span, and a lower risk of heart disease.

1. Smoothies are a great and yummy way to incorporate more fruit into your breakfast. Try blending strawberries, bananas and low-fat yogurt. Add some skimmed milk or fruit juice if it’s too thick!

2. Serve whole-wheat pancakes topped with bananas, honey and blueberries. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants that are great for fighting off disease and signs of ageing in the body.

3. Flavour your morning whole grain bagel with spreads like, low-fat cream cheese or fresh fruit preserves.

4. Add nuts or chopped fruit to your whole-grain cereal or porridge for an energy boosting breakfast!

5. Shave one ounce of dark chocolate onto a cup of low-fat yogurt. Dark chocolate contains antioxidants that can help reduce levels of bad cholesterol.

6. Drink unsweetened orange juice.

The vitamin C in this citrus fruit help to strengthen your immune system and enhance collagen production, which is essential for keeping the skin looking plump and young!

Stay hydrated - drinking water is great to keep you hydrated; helping your body remove toxins, aid concentration and stop you feeling tired. Having a glass with a meal can make you feel fuller, helping to stop you from overeating. For extra flavour, try adding slices of your favourite fruit such as berries, lemon slices or fresh mint leaves.

3. Get active: • Use the stairs as often as possible instead of the lift or escalator.

• Get off the bus a stop earlier and walk to your destination.

• Turn housework into exercise dusting, vacuuming, cleaning the bath, washing the car, mowing the lawn and gardening are good ways to burn some extra calories.

7. Make a healthy omelette using organic eggs and fill with your favorite vegetables, e.g. onion, peppers or mushrooms!

• Instead of meeting friends for a coffee, why not meet in the park for a nice stroll?

8. Spread wholenut peanut butter onto slices of apple. Peanuts contain vitamin E which helps to repair damaged skin tissues, while apples provide fibre aiding normal digestive patterns.

Sleep plays an important role in our health. For adults, getting the recommended 7 hours per night has been shown to enhance memory, improve immune response and boost the body’s repair system.

9. Enjoy a cup of green tea with your breakfast - as it’s been found to lower blood pressure, reduce risk of diabetes and arthritis.

10. Try eating within an hour of waking up. The longer you wait to eat breakfast, the hungrier you will become, making you more likely to overeat.

Have your 5 portions of fruits and vegetables which are packed with vitamins, fibre and antioxidants, essential for fighting off disease.

Introduce whole grains into your meals - they’re good sources of fibre and can help regulate blood pressure and improve heart health. Good ideas

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4. Have a good night’s sleep:

5. Relax and unwind: Eliminating stress from your lifestyle can help your mind function better, heal your body faster and aids digestion.

The Formula for a Healthy and Happy Life Don’t worry, be happy!

Good health is something that most of us aspire for in life. Whether this means exercising regularly or eating the right foods – we’re essentially trying to look better or feel better for as long as possible.

But are you making happiness part of your daily health routine? Growing research by physicians, philosophers and economists have linked the science

What’s the secret to happiness?

Defining happiness isn’t a simple task. In an effort to narrow down our understanding, researchers have created the UK’s first ever ‘Feel Good Formula’: (Mx16 + Cx1 + Lx2) + (Tx5 + Nx2 + Bx33) So how do we interpret this equation?

What does it all mean?

Renowned professor, Dr Todd Kashdan who led the study explains: “there is no single secret to feeling good, but when these six ingredients are carefully attended to, in the right doses, you will be on target for a happy life”.

The 6 factors in this ‘Feel Good Formula’ are: Live in the moment (M) – Try to appreciate the sounds, smells and sights around you that you might take for granted in your daily life. It is important to remind yourself every hour that you are awake (average= 16 hours).

Be curious (C): Once a day, be spontaneous enough to explore the unknown and uncertain aspects of your life.

Do something you love (L): An essential part of a happy life is to take part in an activity twice a day that truly gives you pleasure or excites you.

Think of others first (T): While it is important to care for yourself, there is great value in spreading love to others - which can ultimately make you feel good too. Share your appreciation with people around you 5 times a day, by offering compliments, listening intently and doing good deeds.

Nurture relationships (N): Research has found that the happiest people in the world have a close relationship with a significant other. Twice a day, make an effort to devote some quality time to a family member, relative, friend or partner.

Take care of your body (B): This doesn’t have to mean extreme dieting or intense exercising. Embracing your body is about nourishing yourself with healthy food three times a day and incorporating 30 minutes of exercise once a day.

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OPEN

FREE ENTRY AND PARKING

The Farmers Market & Craft Centre

TUES - SAT 10AM-5PM SUN 10.30AM - 4.30PM & BANK HOLIDAYS

at Heskin Hall Estate

5 MINS FROM J27 M6, 2 MINS FROM CHARNOCK RICHARD SERVICES

Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 5PA • 07599 831907 • www.heskinfarmersmarket.co.uk

FOOD HALL ~ CRAFTS ~ ANTIQUES ~ TEA ROOM

Join us...

Relax, dine and shop at Heskin Hall Estate

Over 40 shops and businesses including: leading art gallery, high quality butchers, florist and plant centre, craft studios, food shops, ladies & gents clothing, gifts with a difference, handbags and jewellery, childrens clothing & toys, hair & beauty, furniture, fredericks ice cream, Hoggs of Fife Country Clothing, Ladybird Lounge Craft Cafe and much more…

For our varied events at The Farmers Market & Craft Centre

The Two Birds Tea Room

Why not relax and enjoy our freshly made paninis, toasties, sandwiches, soups and salads made using our fresh local produce. Summer specials and Sangria now available.

Two Birds Tea Room

Winter Menu available now including our signature dish

Hall Free Range Butchers Water BuffaloHeskin Casserole.

We have a wide range of high quality meats and products including beef, lamb, pork, chicken, turkey, venison, water buffalo and selection of game.

Christmas Shopping

Try our freshly made quality sausages, tasty meat balls, beef burgers, buffalo burgers and stir-fries.

Come and visit all our shops wonderful Christmas gifts for Ourgorgeous beef and lamb comesfull fromof our own free range all the family. Don’t herds, forget to order your Turkey Butchers, Fruit & 100% grass fed, producing the from highestour quality meats and the veryfoods best natural Veg box from Sooty’s & Speciality fromflavour. our Deli!

All of our other meats and products are also carefully sourced from free range farmsinto and producers. shopping, why not pop the Two Birds

Then after all that Tea Room for a glass of delicious Mulled Wine & homemade Mince Pie in front of our wood burning stove! Special festive Menu also available.

Bracken Country Clothing

A wide range of top quality country wear for both men and women at discounted prices.

Santa’s Grotto

All sizes available in a wide range of colours.

Why not visit Santa and his elves in his Grotto at the Ladybird Lounge?

From agricultural use or just for the man or woman who loves the Craft Studio every weekend throughout December. feel and look of the country side.

Orders are welcomed and if we don’t have your desired item in stock arrangements can be made to have the item delivered within 5 working days!

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Units available, email: info@heskinfarmersmarket.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK - LOW FAT WINTER WARMERS

Si King and Dave Myers are self-confessed food lovers.

Food isn’t just fuel to them, it’s their life. But like many of us they’ve found that the weight has crept on over the years.

Si and Dave have come up with tasty recipes that are low in calories and big in flavour, and many we have featured in 50 Plus Magazine.

OLD FASHIONED CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE STEW

This is real food for real people, not skinny minnies.

They are ideas for family meals.

The cider and bacon add a touch of sweetness and extra flavour to the chicken and veg, making this a lovely supper dish. Keep it low-fat by removing the skin from the chicken legs before cooking and using as little oil as possible for browning the meat and vegetables.

SERVES 4 3 tbsp plain flour 2 tsp dried thyme 4 chicken leg quarters 2 tbsp sunflower oil 4 rashers of rindless smoked back bacon, cut into 1cm-wide strips 2 medium onions, chopped 2 celery sticks, thinly sliced 150g small chestnut mushrooms, wiped and sliced or quartered if large 500ml bottle of dry cider 300ml chicken stock, (made with 1 chicken stock cube) 2 bay leaves 400g Chantenay or other small fat carrots, trimmed and peeled 2 slender leeks, trimmed and cut into 2cm slices flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper.

METHOD Mix the flour and thyme with a good pinch of salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper in a large strong 23 www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

freezer bag. Strip the skin off the chicken legs and put them on a board.

Break the joint of each leg by bending it in the opposite direction. You may hear a small crack. Cut each leg quarter in half with a sturdy knife to give 8 chicken portions. Using a good set of kitchen scissors, trim off any visible fat.

Put the chicken portions in the freezer bag, a few at a time, and shake well until they are evenly coated in the flour.

Heat the oil in a large non-stick fying pan over a medium heat and fry the chicken, a few pieces at a time, until golden brown all over. As they are browned, transfer the chicken pieces to a large flameproof casserole dish.

Preheat the oven to 1800C/Fan 1600C/ Gas 4.

Put the bacon, onions and celery in the pan used for browning the chicken and fry for 4-5 minutes over medium heat until lightly browned, stirring often.

Add the mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes more, then tip everything into the casserole dish with the chicken pieces. Sprinkle in any flour remaining in the freezer bag and stir well.

Pour about half the cider into the frying pan and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon to lift any sediment from the bottom. Simmer for a few seconds, then pour into the casserole. Add the rest of the cider and the stock, then stir in the carrots and bay leaves and bring to a simmer on the hob.

Cover with a lid and cook in the centre of the over for 1 hour, then remove the casserole from the oven and stir in the leeks. Pop the dish back into the oven for a further 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickened. Serve with some green beans or spring onions.

435 Calories per portion.

23

LAMB, SPINACH AND POTATO CURRY This is a low-cal version of Dave’s favourite curry - saag gosht - becuase he couldn’t bear to it give it up. If you are running short of time, cut out the fresh garlic, ginger and chilli - the curry will still taste great. The recipe contains potatoes so there is no need to serve it with extra rice.

SERVES 6

METHOD

600g lamb leg steaks (about 4 steaks) 1 tbsp sunflower oil 2 large onions, roughly chopped 4 large garlic cloves, peeled and roughly chopped 25g chunk of fresh root ginger, peeled and roughly chopped 1 plump fresh chilli, (deseeded if you like) 75g medium or mild curry paste (depending on your taste) 400g can of chopped tomatoes 350g potatoes, preferably Maris Pipers, peeled and cut into 3cm chunks 450ml water 2 bay leaves 1 tsp flaked sea salt, plus extra for seasoning the meat 1 tsp caster sugar 3 ripe medium tomatoes, quartered 100g young spinach leaves freshly ground black pepper

Trim the lamb of any hard fat and cut the meat into rough chunks of about 3cm. Season with salt and pepper. Heat a teaspoon of the oil in a large nonstick frying pan and fry the lamb in 2 batches until lightly coloured on all sides.

Transfer the lamb to a plate as soon as each batch is browned.

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Heat the remaining oil in a large flameproof casserole dish and add the onions. Cook over a medium heat for 6-8 minutes until they’re softened and lightly browned, stirring regularly. Turn down the heat, add the garlic, ginger, chilli and curry paste and cook for 5 minutes more, stirring frequently.

Remove from the heat and blitz the onion mixture with a stick blender until blended to a purée. Or you can let the mixture cool for a few minutes, then blend it in a food processor before tipping it back into the casserole. Return the casserole to the hob over a medium heat. Preheat the oven to 1900C/Fan 1700C/Gas 5.

Add the browned lamb to the spiced onion purée in the dish and cook over a gentle heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring. Add the chopped tomatoes, potatoes, water, bay leaves, teaspoon of salt and sugar.

Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then cover with a lid and place the casserole in the oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the lamb is tender and the sauce has thickened. Check after 1 hour and give the contents of the casserole dish a good stir.

Take the dish out of the oven and remove the lid. Stir in the quartered tomatoes and spinach leaves. Cover once more and return to the oven for a further 5 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and the spinach has wilted.

Serve hot with some spoonfuls of fatfree yoghurt if you fancy.

293 calories per portion.

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SHIP A traditional ‘Great British Pub’ The Ship at Lathom serves a wide range of real ales – with always at least six on offer; premium lagers and stouts; fine wines and spirits – including a range of malt whiskies. There’s always a cosy environment enhanced by real fires and log-burning stoves with friendly, attentive and knowledgeable staff to make your visit an extra special one...

SCRAMBLED EGGS WITH SMOKED SALMON This is a treat - light but tasty and packed with protein.

It takes next to no time to prepare and makes a really special weekend breakfast or brunch. Shows that you can breakfast like a king and still keep the calories under control.

SERVES 2 4 medium eggs 1 tbsp freshly snipped chives, plus a few extra to garnish(optional) 15g butter 4 slices of smoked salmon (about 75g) 1 English muffin, cut in half flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper METHOD Beat the eggs with a pinch of flaked sea salt and lots of freshly ground black pepper. Use a metal whisk and make sure you beat the eggs really well. Stir in the chives if you’re using them.

Melt the butter in a medium non-stick saucepan over a low heat. Pour the beaten eggs into the pan and cook very gently for 2 minutes, stirring slowly until the eggs are softly scrambled. Remove from the heat and stir for a few seconds more - the eggs will continue to cook for a while.

While the eggs are cooking, toast the muffin and put 1 half on each plate, cut side up. Spoon the scrambled eggs over the muffins, add the slices of smoked salmon and season with a little more black pepper. Garnish with extra chives if you wish. Serve immediately.

354 calories per portion

The Food At The Ship you can indulge in traditional country inn dining with fresh food that is locally sourced, much from premium local specialist suppliers. The food is prepared on the premises by a resident team of local chefs, supplementing a core menu of British staple foods with specials that really are special – including a range of vegan dishes.

Barrista coffees are prepared from locally roasted beans by fully trained staff. Food all day – full menu ‘til 9pm (8pm on Sundays); Booking advisable.

NOW TAKING FESTIVE BOOKINGS

SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS WWW.SHIPATLATHOM.CO.UK

4 WHEAT LANE, LATHOM, WEST LANCS L40 4BX

TEL: 01704-893117

EMAIL: INFO@SHIPATLATHOM.CO.UK

WWW.SHIPATLATHOM.CO.UK

urt Montrose Cot Derby, Wes Baycliff Road, 6RR 2 L1 l, Liverpoo

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Call us on: 0845 305 5335 | general.enquiries@jjhousing.co.uk “JOHNNIE” JOHNSON HOUSING TRUST (HEAD OFFICE) ASTRA HOUSE, SPINNERS LANE, POYNTON, CHESHIRE, SK12 1GA. AN EXEMPT CHARITY REGISTERED UNDER THE INDUSTRIAL AND PROVIDENT SOCIETIES ACT 1965 NO.19198R

miss having them around? skype the grandkids

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financial-ombudsman.org.uk honest answers – to help you move on 26

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OUT & ABOUT Opening Saturday 16th November and running every Saturday and Sunday until 14th December, and from then on every day right up until 23rd December, St George’s Hall’s magical Christmas interactive experience is the perfect way for children and families to revisit the Christmas of a time gone by.

This enchanting journey begins at St John’s Lane entrance where visitors board a real Santa Express Train. Once on board passengers will be whisked through St Georges Hall as Christmas comes alive before their very eyes, travelling through Santa’s Workshop and an authentic Winter Wonderland before excited children (and adults too) meet Father Christmas in his Grotto at the very end of their journey.

Each child will receive an early Christmas present and actors and performers will bring a Dickensian Christmas scene to life, as they entertain and spread festive magic throughout this nostalgic experience; a fitting scene for Dickens’ favourite venue.

All aboard the Santa Express to the brand new St George’s Grotto!

From 16th November – 23rd December a brand new Christmas Grotto will open in one of Liverpool’s most iconic historic buildings!

St George’s Grotto - an interactive Dickensian festive experience complete with a miniature train - will come alive within one of Liverpool’s most beloved landmarks, St George’s Hall. Visitors are invited to take part in magical journey through this iconic building before meeting Father Christmas himself.

Tickets are available to purchase on the day at St George’s Hall itself, with children’s tickets priced at £6 (accompanying adults go free!), this is the perfect way for the whole family to recapture the true meaning of Christmas.

St George’s Hall Grotto

16 November-14 December, Sat & Sun only 15 December – 23 December, open daily 11am-5pm (last entry 4.30pm) Child’s ticket £6 (includes gift from Santa). Accompanying adults go free.

Tickets available to purchase at the venue on the day.

Win an 8 day Robinsons Holiday for 2 people in 2014

Coach Holidays

Win a Robinsons Holiday to either the Abbey Lawn Hotel in Torquay, the Imperial Hotel in Eastbourne or the Ocean View Hotel on the Isle of Wight.

The prize is for an eight day holiday for two people. Prize is valid between February 2014 and 7th December 2014 - excludes Easter 2014. Simply choose one of the dates from our 2014 brochure. Prize includes half board accommodation and coach travel from any pick-up point in our brochure. Holiday itinerary is as per relevant brochure tour for chosen date. Prize is subject to availability and is non-transferrable, non- refundable and has no cash redemption value. Prize can not be auctioned on any web-site or used or offered as a prize for any other competition or as a gift or incentive. Prize is not for re-sale. Multiple entries will be disqualified.

Winner will be notified by email or by post. Closing date for all entries is 31st December 2013.

To enter complete the following: Name______________________________________________________ Address House number/name________________________________ Address street______________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ Town_______________________________________________________

County_____________________________________________________ Postcode___________________________________________________ Day time telephone number _________________________________ Email address_______________________________________________

FOR MORE INFORMATION FREEPHONE 0800 0839900

Return to Sales Department, Robinsons Holidays, Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

27

OUT & ABOUT career, and this exhibition features some of the highlights.

Stephen said: “Ken Dodd is an icon for many in terms of comedic talent and Liverpool pride. I have been lucky enough to photograph the man himself on stage, back stage and at the many events he has attended over the years where he has put smiles on people’s faces with his unwavering Scouse wit and charm.

“This exhibition is not just about how people see Ken Dodd as a comedian but what he is like when he’s preparing for a show and what he’s like on stage from a more intimate perspective in the wings.

BY JOVE! IT’S KEN DODD! The Museum of Liverpool is opening a new photographic exhibition this week, celebrating the life of a comedy legend.

By Jove! It’s Ken Dodd! Photographs by Stephen Shakeshaft will open on Friday 8 November 2013 until 21 April 2014, capturing the man behind the performer through the lens of an award-winning Liverpool photographer who has been snapping the ‘Squire of Knotty Ash’ for over 50 years.

Beginning his career at the Liverpool Daily Post & Echo in 1962, one of Stephen Shakeshaft’s earliest assignments was to photograph ‘Doddy’. A friendship blossomed between the pair, and a bond of mutual respect and trust has allowed Stephen to become an intimate observer of Ken Dodd’s career.

Displaying photographs that are candid, poignant, affectionate and amusing – many taken from the wings during performances – this exhibition will feature just some of the shots Stephen’s taken over the years of Liverpool’s best-loved entertainer doing what he does best.

Ken Dodd said of the exhibition: “One of the greatest pleasures in my life is seeing photographs of Liverpool’s skyline, and I’m highly honoured to be part of an exhibition in a fantastic museum, on this beautiful waterfront. I can’t quite believe that people would want to come and see pictures of me! It’s very touching.

Curator Paul Gallagher said: “Stephen has been taking photographs of local icons throughout his career, but having seen the honesty and warmth captured in his shots of Ken, it’s quite clear they have developed a particularly special relationship that has enabled Stephen to portray a rarelyseen side of Ken Dodd.”

The exhibition will feature around 50 images of Ken Dodd taken by Stephen Shakeshaft over five decades, in a variety of locations and situations. Whether it is relaxing in the dressing room with a pint, clowning around with some young fans or hanging out with his best mate Dickie Mint, Stephen has been there for a great many moments in Ken Dodd’s

28

“I look forward to seeing the reactions of visitors to the exhibition at the Museum of Liverpool, and hope it will spread a bit of the ‘happiness’ that Ken so effortlessly prescribes to all who watch him and have been lucky enough to meet him, including myself.”

As one of Britain’s funniest comedians, Ken Dodd is still entertaining audiences up and down the country, and will celebrate 60 years in the business in 2014. He will be closing his ‘Happiness Show’ tour at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall at the end of this year on 28 and 29 December.

For more information please visit www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/kendodd

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Family Concert Rudolph on Hope Street Friday 20 December 2013 4:15 pm Liverpool Philharmonic Hall Alasdair Malloy presenter Michael Seal conductor Liverpool Philharmonic Training Choir & Melody Makers Tickets £12, £15 (£8 children) £1.50 per ticket administrative fee applies for online/ telephone ticket orders, + 75p per order postage fee (if required).

Move over Frosty – Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer is coming to town this year in a one-hour holiday extravaganza for the whole family. It’ll be a high energy event as we invite audiences to singalong with the Orchestra and Choirs to Christmas favourites including When Santa Got Stuck Up the Chimney, White Christmas, and of course Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Bring those red noses! Always a sell out, so please book early!

‘Huge thanks and congratulations to all involved in putting on this super show - delightful to see children embraced in all their noisy, fidgety wonderfulness!’

Audience member, Christmas Family concert 2012 Please note there may be flashing lights used during this performance.

Don’t miss the live reindeer with sleigh and elves outside Liverpool Philharmonic Hall prior to the concerts!

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Principle Productions presents

SOUTHPORT’S BIGGEST AND BEST VALUE FAMILY PANTO!

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Friday 13th - Tuesday 31st December Starring KIM WOODBURN Queen Of Clean & star of How Clean Is Your House & I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here (Runner Up 2009) as Fairy Starlight & LEE LATCHFORD-EVANS from STEPS as Jack.

KIM WOODBURN LEE LATCHFORDEVANS

Back by popular demand and to quote the LIVERPOOL ECHO ‘A Comedy genius’ the very funny Jamie Greer as Dame Trott.

STAR IN

New to Southport in the role of Silly Billy is Manchester born Nick Newbould who will have adults and kids alike in stitched from start to finish!

Backed by a fabulous full supporting cast, this show promises to combine all the elements of traditional pantomime packed with toe tapping tunes, amazing dance routines, hilarious comedy, audience participation, all the elements that add to the festive feel good factor for all the family!

AMAZING TICKE T PRICES FROM JUST £9.50!

FRI 13 - TUE 31 DEC 2013 WITH

JAMIE GREER NICK NEWBOULD AND FULL SUPPORTING CAST!

0844 871 3021 ATGTICKETS.COM/SOUTHPORT GROUPS 0844 871 3041 BOX OFFICE OPEN MON - SAT,11AM - 4PM

It’s never too early to plan ahead for your Christmas trip to the theatre and with 27 performances to choose from and tickets starting from just £9.50, what better way to celebrate the end of 2013 with a super day or night out at Southport Theatre?

Tickets

£9.50, £15, £19.50 Family Ticket 3+ £5 off top 2 price bands Groups 20+ £11 (plus 1 in 20 free) Special Family rate 4 tickets for £39 on selected performances

*

(*SUBJECT TO BOOKING FEE)

Will Jack slay the Giant? Will he rescue the girl of his dreams? With castles in the sky, evil henchmen, pantomime cows, love and romance, a huge giant and a truly superb pantomime dame – this show is simply not to be missed!

*

Call into the Box Office, open Monday – Saturday, 11am – 4pm for counter sales – pay with cash & save £££’s!

ATG Tickets 0844 8713021* Groups 0844 871 3041 www.atgtickets.com/southport* * subject to booking fees.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Email all enquiries to southportboxoffice@theambassadors.com

29

Pauline McNamara Partner Head of Family Law

Why people are choosing to celebrate their “Silver Separation” rather than their “Silver Wedding Anniversary.”

Divorce among the over 50’s in the UK is on the rise. This rise in the number of “Silver Separators” can be contributed to a number of reasons. The triggers can be anything from the children leaving the nest, a sudden crisis or just simply a sudden realisation that you have nothing in common in with your partner.

A recent survey carried out by Saga and YouGov highlighted the main reasons why couples in their 50’s and 60’s commence divorce proceedings: •

28% - One partner was

emotionally cold

•

27% - lack of commitment to the

marriage •

25% - Lack of interest in a

physical relationship

•

23% - Inability to resolve or

manage a conflict

•

23% - Other

•

14 % - Nagging

•

13% - Met someone else

•

12% - Abandonment

•

11% - Alcohol/drug addiction

•

10% - Nothing to talk about

•

9% - One partner not contributing

enough financially

•

8% - Jobs made things difficult

and may have been paying the lowest

Spousal Maintenance – With an older

rate of national insurance contributions.

couple there may be huge disparity in

This could mean that she may not be

earning capacity between the husband

eligible to claim a state pension in her

and the wife. Following divorce or

own right and will have been relying

separation the partner who earns the

on contributions from her husband.

lower amount may find it difficult to

The same of course applies should the

make ends meet. In this situation the

wife have been the main breadwinner.

issue of spousal maintenance will

At Cassell Moore we can provide the

need to be addressed. This can be

older client with expert advice regarding

a very complex area to navigate. At

pension sharing.

Cassell Moore our solicitors have the experience and required expertise to

The Matrimonial Home – With older

guide our clients though this particularly

couples at this stage in their life

difficult issue following divorce.

the matrimonial home is likely to be mortgage free. This therefore can be

Should you be considering divorce,

another large asset to consider when

separation or already be going through

At Cassell Moore we frequently advise

divorcing. One problem is that even

it – contact Cassell Moore and we will

clients in their 50s and 60s who are

though the property may be mortgage

be able to assist you in disentangling

thinking about divorce to consider the

free it is often the case that there

two lifetimes’ worth of assets and help

following before making any decisions:

are insufficient funds after its sale to

you plan sensibly for your retirement

purchase individual properties for both

and the rest of your life.

Pension Rights – Either your own or

the husband and the wife. It can be

your partners pension can often be one

difficult at this stage in their life for either

of the largest matrimonial assess to

party to obtain a mortgage. At Cassell

consider when sorting out the finances

Moore we can advise older clients

ancillary to divorce. If the husband has

on how best to resolve the issue of

been the breadwinner for most of the

re-housing following divorce including

marriage and has been contributing to

taking into consideration any issues

an occupational (work –based) pension

such as earning capacity and any other

scheme, or even a private pension

special needs either party may have.

scheme he is likely to have built up a considerable fund. The wife however

Cassell Moore Edward Pavilion Albert Dock Liverpool L3 4AF. Tel: 0800 014 9277 e: info@cassellmoore.com www.cassellmore.com

may not have worked for several years Cassell Moore is a trading name of HH Law Limited (SRA Number 512839) and a part of the HHL Group.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

31

Make 2014 Your Year!

By Angela Kelly

Most of us treat a New Year in the same way – we mentally list all the things we want to change in the next 12 months …. but then do little about it until the next new year!

Well, here’s the chance to make 2014 YOUR year and change all those areas of your life with which you’re unhappy.

And that doesn’t necessarily just apply to your home and your job but also the shape you’re in and many of the things

32

you might like to change about yourself if you just could.

For a start, are you happy with the shape you’re in? Even the most gorgeous celebrities or top models complain about some element of their bodies, so the rest of us are bound to have a list of “improvements”!

Weight is an obvious one. So, if you’ve been promising yourself to drop a few pounds – or a stone or two – join a slimming club now, or put yourself on a good WEIGHT-LOSS programme.

Start this journey with a quick visit to your GP, of course, to check that there’s no medical stumbling blocks involved but after that – ready, steady, slim!

Complement your shape as the pounds disappear, too, with a new approach to your FITNESS regime. Gym membership these days is generally

very economical, especially if you attend regularly, and you’ve got the added bonus of having expert help on hand and being surrounded by likeminded people.

Make a gym visit part of your regular routine as a way of ensuring you keep happy and healthy – and trimmer – and you’ll keep that hard-won weight-loss off for good.

For those with limited mobility, the risk of falling in a bathroom is high.

As we get older, falls can become a major health problem so maintaining a safe home environment is essential.

Everyday tasks that most people take for granted can become an actual danger for those with limited mobility.

Aquability can help you prevent problems before they occur and enable you to stay independent for longer. www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

You may decide that a New Year is just the time to change from struggling along with a large and expensive property to something more suitable and economical. There is a wealth of suitable places these days, including comfortable modern apartments needing the minimum of maintenance, and with staff on-site to support you daily. And the bonus is that you’re in a community of older people also determined to enjoy life!

Sometimes a simple solution is all that is needed to improve home safety, such as installing grab bars or using a specially designed inflatable cushion to get in and out of the bath.

As the UK’s leading bathing solutions provider Aquability have been changing the lives of their customers for over 15 years. Their mobility products include walk- in baths, sitdown showers, powered safety seats and more.

With a comprehensive product range that is constantly updated and an expert team on hand to advise you, Aquability can deliver the perfect solution to your mobility needs, on any budget.

Visit www.aquability.com to find out more.

Perhaps you want to try out a NEW HAIRSTYLE – a fresh, shorter look or a change of colour. Consult your hairdresser and take his or her advice on cut, condition and just what suits you.

Consider finally getting your dental work sorted out or having your TEETH WHITENED if you’re unhappy with your smile. It is, after all, often the first thing that people notice about you and there are plenty of excellent treatments around. Your dentist can advise here.

It may be that you would like to ditch those specs and improve your EYESIGHT. Laser surgery has come on remarkably in the last few years, so shop around for the best and most trusted treatment.

Certainly, for many of us, our wishlist contains COSMETIC SURGERY for a crooked nose, saggy chin or to get rid of those frown lines. Choose a reputable clinic or salon and give yourself the face or other identified body part you’ve always wanted.

This may be the year that you decide to MOVE HOUSE. The housing market is definitely much more buoyant and all the signs are good for getting the home of your dreams. Local estate agents and mortgage advisors are always happy to help you with your personal home possibilities.

Or, it could be that you like your current address but want to put in an EXTENSION or CONSERVATORY. A

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Laser surgery has come on remarkably in the last few years, so shop around for the best and most trusted treatment local builder can give you a quote without charge for an extension, and it’s certainly worth talking to an architect about making the most of this planned space first. They’re the experts on coming up with clever plans and utilising extensions in the most practical way to suit your family’s lifestyle.

If you go online to see the kinds of extensions and conservatories available, you can mix and match the best of ideas to suit your plans.

Your property may just need the kind of brightening up that a good DECORATOR can provide. Sometimes, changing the colourscheme and furnishings really cheers up rooms and transforms the home.

It may be that you’re at that stage of life when you want to DOWNSIZE, perhaps realise some of the capital in your property. If you’re in those golden years and want tailor-made accommodation, it’s definitely worth considering a retirement village or sheltered accommodation.

Of course, it may be that you’ve been promising yourself that special HOLIDAY for several years. So, this could well be the time to consider going to Australia or New Zealand, Macau or Malibu. Consult a reliable travel agent for the kind of personal service you’ll need for the trip of a lifetime.

It may be that you’ve got a close relative or friend in a far-flung spot that you’d love to visit but never thought you could. Now is just the time to see if this is a possibility, and how it could be achieved.

Perhaps you’re determined to finally go to a special SPORTING OCCASION, like the Winter Olympics in Russia in February, the World Twenty20 cricket in Bangladesh in April or the Masters’ golf in Augusta that month.

Again, your travel can create a personal travel itinerary that will ensure you realise your dream trip, and enjoy the experience every bit as much as you thought you would.

Your New Year Resolutions may be far more modest than any of these, although they may well enhance your life just as much. You may decide that in 2014 you will definitely QUIT SMOKING so take a good look at all the products around to actively help you with this – there’s everything from patches to e-cigarettes these days, hypnotherapists and local health expert support on offer so there’s really no excuse.

Or you may have decided to LEARN a musical instrument or a foreign language. All it takes is that initial decision that you’re not going to leave things for another year. You’re not simply going to say “I wish I could ….”

You’re actually going to do it!

33

The Problems and Pitfalls of DIY Probate When someone passes away, with or without leaving a Will, their money, property and belongings need to be dealt with according to law and accounted to the beneficiaries. It may seem like a good idea to save on professional costs by acting in the administration of an estate yourself, but beware, taking professional advice can actually in certain circumstances save you money, reduce stress, and save your precious time.

Is there a valid Will?

Problems can arise with the validity of a Will, due to questions surrounding the signing of the Will, or capacity issues. Wills can often set up trusts in respect of property, or sometimes as part of tax planning. Further complications can arise when beneficiaries to a Will have already died.

Where there isn’t a Will or one cannot be found, the estate passes according to the Intestacy Rules which do not necessarily follow the order that relatives might expect and sometimes a professional opinion is required.

Some of the most common mistakes made by non professional personal representatives otherwise known as executors or administrators.

•

•

34

Presumption that a co-habitee is a common law spouse and entitled to their partner’s estate. There is no such thing in England and Wales as a common law spouse. The Intestacy Rules do not make provision for Co-habitees. If that situation has arisen we are able to advise on making the appropriate application to court for provision for a surviving partner from the estate.

Adopted children are not entitled to share in an estate of their adopting parent. Wrong. Legally adopted children are entitled to share in their adopting parent’s estate.

They are not entitled to benefit from the estate of their natural parents.

Providing legal services to the community in the North West since 1947.

•

Not realising when an estate passes to siblings of a deceased, any children of a deceased sibling are entitled to their parent’s share.

Inheritance Tax (IHT) As part of the application to obtain a Grant of Probate an Inland Revenue Return needs to be submitted. If the estate is relatively straightforward with no lifetime gifts and does not exceed the IHT threshold (currently £325,000) then the “short form” (IHT205) may be used. As it is only a few pages long, the short form doesn’t seem too daunting, however guidance notes that stretch to around 40 pages show that it is not as straightforward as it seems. Where estates exceed the IHT threshold or the estate has business or agricultural property within it, then a full Inland Revenue account needs to be submitted and this can prove a very time consuming and complicated affair for lay personal representatives. If the account has been submitted incorrectly and the Revenue determine this has been done negligently, they are likely to issue penalties which can be severe.

Claiming Reliefs There are many different reliefs or exemptions which may be claimed in respect of IHT. If you do not claim them you will lose them. Also some of the tax due may be paid in instalments. The Inland Revenue are not obliged to point this out to you so a professional opinion is recommended.

Peace of Mind The administration of an estate can present issues and traps for the unwary. It can be hazardous for those acting as Personal Representatives as they will be held personally liable by the beneficiaries if exemptions or reliefs are not claimed in full or penalties are imposed by the Revenue for the negligent completion of an Inland Revenue Account. By ensuring that proper advice is obtained the executor or administrator can avoid personal liability.

0151 239 1064 www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

A professional advisor will also produce a set of estate accounts so that all the beneficiaries can see the value of the estate and be certain that they have received the correct entitlement. They can also, where necessary, arrange specific types of insurance, for example Missing Beneficiaries insurance and Unoccupied Property insurance, and prior to distribution of the estate will be able to conduct bankruptcy searches on the beneficiaries to ensure that they are entitled to the monies rather than their Trustee in Bankruptcy.

In addition, an experienced lawyer will be able to advise on the appropriate application of a Deed of Variation (a method of changing the terms of a Will within 2 years of the date of death). A Deed of Variation can be used to improve the Inheritance Tax position of a beneficiary or to resolve disputes or potential problems with the Will.

Canter Levin & Berg offer a fixed fee service so our clients know exactly what to expect.

We are also able to provide quotes for fixed fee estate administration in the future by way of a Probate Plan. This enables someone making a Will to pay a fixed fee now, set at today’s prices, relieving family members of any financial worries and uncertainty on their death, at a difficult and distressing time. The Probate Plan works in much the same way as a funeral plan does.

Remember, you can seek assistance from a professional at any stage and a review of the Inland Revenue Tax Return is particularly advisable.

Do beware of “probate specialists”, even those referred by banks or funeral directors. These companies often use sales tactics or apply pressure to sign up there and then to get a “good deal”. Their sales people will usually say solicitors are very expensive and suggest you are likely to be charged a ridiculous amount. Don’t take their word for it. Obtain a fixed fee quote, and make an informed decision on costs and the level of expert advice.

If you would like more information on probate administration please contact our Private Client team on 0151 239 1064

www.clblaw.co.uk

The simple way to give more to the ones you love As the UK’s leading independent funeral plan provider, Golden Charter Ltd also now offer a pre-paid Probate Plan.

Working with some of the UK’s top legal firms, both local and national, you can rest assured that everything will be taken care of no matter what the future may hold.

Find out more, call Canter Levin & Berg our local appointed probate plan agent.

INTERVIEW: ANN Widdecombe and when I was nine or 10 had written two books – if you could call three exercise books bound together a book.”

Unsurprisingly, when she quit politics she turned to writing and has four successful novels under her belt with a fifth underway. This latest one, unlike her other books, is a detective novel – “it’s not full of sex, it’s a straightforward detective story,” she states.

However, it was politics which has claimed much of her life, starting with an election trail that began as a candidate in Burnley in 1979.

She moved on to try in Plymouth Devonport against Dr David Owen in 1983 before she successfully became MP for Maidstone in 1987.

She had a hard-working and stellar rise up the Conservative Parliamentary ranks to become Minister of State for the Department of Employment in 1994, then for the Home Office in 1995.

STRICTLY ANN ANN Widdecombe tucked surprisingly dainty feet under her and sat happily recounting highlights from a career that has taken her from Parliament to “Strictly Come Dancing.”

The former Tory minister was part-way through a hectic book tour to publicise her very entertaining autobiography, “Strictly Ann,” and was taking

36

time out for a quick chat and a welcome cuppa.

She is 66 now, with a big personality belied by her petite stature, but with the same feisty nature that turned her into a scourge of the Opposition and a staunch defender of Catholic values. It also complemented a formidable intellect honed at Oxford University where she was active in the Oxford Union.

“Before I got into politics I always thought I’d be a writer,” she explains. “I’d always loved reading

In opposition, she was Shadow Health Secretary and Shadow Home Secretary. In 2007 she announced her intention of retiring from politics at the next General Election, and in 2010 her considerable and often controversial presence left the House of Commons for good.

Ask her, however, what was one of the most memorable achievements of her political tenure and she won’t point to a major Bill or campaign. “It was getting one of my constituents out of jail in Morocco,” she says simply. “They really didn’t think it could be done.”

Her trenchant views, no-nonsense approach and – as it transpired – sheer likeability meant that she quickly swapped political status for celebrity status. She already had a strong TV curriculum vitae from fronting various documentaries and from discussion programmes, but the public suddenly got to see www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

her in a new light when she agreed to take part in “Strictly Come Dancing.”

“Several of my friends said ‘what do you want to do Strictly for?’ because they still saw me as a politician,” she recalls. “I knew that I was no longer a politician.

“I’d turned down Big Brother because I hate that kind of intrusive programme, and I could never go on ‘I’m A Celebrity ….. Get Me Out Of Here!’ because I couldn’t eat any of those disgusting things they make you eat.

“But I liked the idea of Strictly. Of course , I was very glad to get Anton du Beke as a partner. One of the earliest things he said to me was ‘Ann, it will be much better if we do our best to keep your feet off the floor.’”

Ann, who threw herself into the gruelling daily rehearsals as she does everything else in life, worked hard. “I’m lucky enough to enjoy pretty good health so I was flung about and didn’t come out with more than the odd bruise,” she says, laughing at the memory.

While the judges were unimpressed with Ann’s efforts, however cleverly choreographed by her partner, the public loved her. Game as always, Ann even agreed to “fly” in on a high-wire – “which I absolutely hated as I’ve got height phobia. I kept my eyes closed during rehearsals, but I had to open them for the broadcast.”

The public vote kept the duo in the hit programme for nine weeks before they left. What did Anton have in mind if they’d reached the final?

“Well, he was going to fly in from one side and I was going to fly in from the other, and we were going to dance in the air!” Ann laughs again. “Yes, the public were denied that.”

Her Strictly appearance did, however, not only lead to an enjoyable live national tour of the show but also to panto. This was in tandem with Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood who had proved to be the biggest critic of Ann’s dancing declaring her a “disah-ster.”

While she has been involved in a variety of other TV programmes – including an excellent documentary series “Ann Widdecombe Versus” tackling a variety of contemporary problems – she really enjoyed her most recent, quiz show “Cleverdicks” for Sky Atlantic.

“And I really regret that they didn’t re-commission that series because it was great,” comments Ann.

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There have been, however, some discussions about Ann and Anton du Beke teaming up for a TV sitcom – “it still seems to be out there although nothing has been decided.”

And she readily admits that she would love to have one of her books made into a film – “who wouldn’t?” is her honest comment.

There are many who believe she should have gone into the House of Lords when her career in the House of Commons ended, but perhaps her opposition to both fox hunting and gay marriage has not made her a special favourite of David Cameron’s.

However, Ann refuses to publicly comment on this one and believes the country should give the Coalition a chance to work properly.

As for future plans, she is open to ideas. “I never plan in detail,” she states. “I just see what comes along.”

What is certain, however, is that the word “retirement” means very little about slowing down for this indefatigable lady. “I’m from a long-lived family, and I don’t understand people who complain about being retired,” she asserts. “I don’t think I could ever do absolutely nothing.”

My Bronte Book Your autobiography captured in a beautiful, illustrated volume for your family to treasure.

Complete with a web site of your pictures and recordings of your stories. Written in Haworth, home of the Brontes.

Haworth gave birth to the historic novels of the Bronte sisters and it can become the birthplace of your personal story.

Makes a wonderful gift for loved ones.

Bronte Book will publish your personal autobiography, written and published in Haworth, to pass on as a living legacy after making detailed recordings.

Within the four month long process comes your own web site (also available separately) containing recordings, pictures and special stories. Your own living legacy which we know you will enjoy compiling.

You may choose a book and/or a web site and an e-book within the package which starts from £300 ranging to £2,750 for the full process, which can include up to 20 books. A deposit with instalment payments plan is available.

Details from www.brontebook.com or Bronte Media, brontemedia@outlook.com Tel: 01535 959002, Mobile: 07866 626090

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A Guide to Dentures ....

The Importance of Dentures The eyes, nose and teeth are the focal points of every face; they give the first impressions of your personality.

In most cases we do not know what your teeth looked like, what size they were or what position they were in originally.

We have a few indications but mostly we have to rely on our visual and artistic judgement.

Natural teeth grow in proportion and in harmony with your facial features and your dentures should be made accordingly.

At the same time we have to use our technical expertise in order to make the denture stable and functional. Denture construction is more art than science.

Your teeth, or your dentures, have many important functions: to support your facial muscles, to help formulate your speech, and most importantly to chew your food and start the digestive process.

It is very important to chew food properly, as poorly chewed food will take longer to digest, especially for the elderly who could risk problems in the digestive system.

Difficulties in Constructing a Good Set of Dentures Constructing a functional and aesthetically pleasing set of dentures is the most difficult task in dentistry. We are not only replacing lost teeth, but also lost tissue matter and bone.

In other words, we have to re-create your facial features as they were before the loss of your natural teeth.

Choice of Dentures There are three main quality standards in denture materials: Denture Base Acrylics: standard quality, high impact much stronger non brittle and the latest thermoplastic.

Denture Teeth: 2-layer acrylic very basic and cheap, 3-layer acrylic re-enforced much harder, 4-layer composite extra hard and natural looking.

However, good materials on their own will not make good dentures. A skilful and experienced clinician and technician are required. The best results are achieved when the whole job is done by the same person.

Removal Partial Dentures It was long thought that removable partial dentures had to be rigid to be effective. The innovation of the Valpast flexible partial denture allows the appliance to adapt to the constant movement and flexibility in your mouth.

The preparation is relatively simple as your natural teeth don’t need to be altered. The Valpast flexible partial denture is virtually invisible, no telltale metal clasps and the material itself blends with the tissue in your mouth so that the only thing that shows is your beautiful smile.

How Long Should Dentures Last?

The question we should ask is, how long will my dentures be functional for? Dentures can last twenty or more years, but will lose their function (chewing ability, proper fit etc.) probably after two years. This will depend on many factors:

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1.

2.

3.

4.

Quality of dentures.

Age of Patient.

General health of patient.

Any drastic change in weight.

Dentures Need Regular Servicing

Summary

Dentures are in constant use almost 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are also in a pretty hostile environment in the mouth, being attacked by strong acid, bacteria, hot, cold and spicy food. Denture material absorbs liquids and food odour.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Daily cleaning is essential as well as professional ultrasonic cleaning in a dental laboratory at least once a year. Due to constant bone resorbtion dentures will become loose sooner or later.

Loose dentures will increase damage to the gums and bone structure, and increase the risk of breakage. Have them re-lined as soon as possible to get a good fit. It only takes a day or two.

Have your dentures inspected by a dentist or denturist at least every two years, or more frequently if necessary.

Your Dentures need Attention 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

When they become loose.

When teeth or denture base discolours.

When tooth surfaces become flat.

When denture base does not fit around natural teeth (in partial dentures).

When you develop deep lines around your mouth.

When your chin sticks out, and the corners of your lips are constantly wet, developing sores.

When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed.

Clean your dentures daily with a denture brush and denture cream.

Have your dentures inspected every two years, and re- lined or ultra-sonically cleaned.

Have a new set made every 5 years if possible.

Keep a spare set for emergencies.

Remember, dentures do not have to hurt and do not need to be uncomfortable.

With a new set of dentures, you should receive a written guarantee, a detailed prescription of the materials used in your dentures, cleaning and servicing instructions, and a cleaning kit.

Dentures so life-like you’d think they were real.

This article was written by 50 Plus journalist Sheila Alcock.

Express Denture Repair Service

DK1

Dental Lab

Loose Dentures Can be re-lined by adding a thin layer of the new acrylic to fit the surface of the dentures, making them fit better (takes one or two days).

Dentures with worn down teeth Teeth can be replaced with a new set.

Major improvements in Facial Features Padding dentures to reduce lines and fill up sunken cheeks will require a new set of dentures. It is advisable to have a new set of dentures made every 5 to 10 years.

Should I have a spare set of Dentures made?

Yes, it is very important to have a spare set of dentures for emergencies in case of breakage.

Where do I go to have a good set of Dentures made?

Every dentist can make dentures, but not all of them will specialise in denture making.

Denturists will take the greatest care to make your dentures look natural and fit properly. They can give you and your dentures the time and attention you deserve.

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Emergency Denture Repairs Over 15 years Experience

Have your Dentures Professionally Cleaned Denture Repairs within the Hour HOME COLLECTION & DELIVERY

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BEAUTY a pleasant smile. Paradoxically, crowns and dentures with teeth that are too white, too straight and too uniform can also make a person look older than their years.

The key is for a natural smile of healthylooking teeth and gums that enhances and suits your face. Clever dentists can carefully add well-matched filling material to the tips of worn lower teeth these days. And it’s also easier now to get rid of a denture with fixed teeth or by fixing or stabilising a denture with implants – all of which can be a massive boost to confidence.

If you’re looking for beauty procedures with natural-looking results, try these ideas:

Keeping Ageing at Bay WE long ago seem to have decided against growing old gracefully and opted to do whatever we can to keep ageing at bay.

Fortunately, there are plenty of things we can do to help ourselves, whether or not we want to resort to cosmetic surgery. In fairness, the cosmetic surgery industry in this country is generally of a very high standard. But, as in anything where you are dealing with your health and investing large amounts of money, it’s worth checking out your private clinic or hospital of choice and comparing both costs and reputations with others.

Eyebag removal, facelifts, cheek and chin implants, tummy tucks, arm lifts and thigh lifts are now all relatively common procedures – although they are all still surgery and require proper consideration and investigation beforehand.

However, there are less drastic options we can undergo that don’t involve the scalpel but can still improve our appearance. First, though, it’s worth ensuring that you’ve explored all that Mother Nature has to offer - along with your active co-operation.

A healthy diet is vital for glowing skin and hair, and it’s important to keep your weight within a reasonable level, too. If you’re not sure whether you’re

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overweight or underweight, ask your doctor and take his or her advice.

Plenty of fruit and vegetables, in particular, are good for health along with a certain amount of protein in meat, fish or pulses. If you’re on a specific diet – for health or other reasons – you may need a vitamin supplement to ensure you keep well and look and feel good. Consulting a nutritionist or asking your GP’s advice are good starting points here.

Exercise can also ensure our joints and muscles stay supple, which is a great aid to youthful vitality as well as improving the shape we’re in. Regular walking in the fresh air can give an outdoorsy look that’s attractive at any age, and the enjoyment of an activity that allows us to relax our faces and bodies can also hold back the years.

Having an attractive smile is surprisingly ante-ageing. In fact, your smile is very important in this ageing battle as an unattractive smile can positively age you far more than skin can in most cases.

Missing teeth, very crooked teeth, poor gum health or very discoloured teeth or fillings will obviously not add up to

Anti-wrinkle injections – These involve injecting botulinum toxin type A (the most famous brand being Botox) into facial muscles. This can actually prevent muscle action so effectively reduce frown-lines, furrowing of the forehead and wrinkles around the eyes.

When this is carried out well by skilled practitioners, it not only means less wrinkles but a less tired, more relaxed look – like you’ve just been on a lovely holiday!

Dermal fillers – A major problem as we get older is the loss of volume, indeed loss of fat, in the face. Fillers are designed to be used in the face to plump up targeted areas and lines such as the naso-labial folds and the marionette lines around the nose and mouth. They are also great for correcting the turned-down mouth that can sometimes come with age.

Temporary fillers are also an effective and popular way of filling folds and lines, and for defining and augmenting lips.

If injections are complete anathema to you, think about the many treatments that the beauty industry can now offer.

Facial treatments generally, though, tend to work best on a well-cared for skin so it’s important to keep skin well hydrated inside and out.

Keeping to well-known beauty product names may well help here as you may know better what your skin reaction will be. One typically famous brand offered in some salons is Guinot, and one of their most popular treatments comes from the Hydradermie range.

The Hydradermie deep cleansing facial is, apparently, much beloved by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and

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Coleen Rooney. This involves deepcleansing the skin, and it also stimulates cellular renewal. The benefits are particularly felt by those with dry skin, and it also reduces the sebum level in oily skin.

The Hydradermie Lift is a machinebased facial using cutting-edge technology to treat both the skin and the facial muscles for an immediate “lifting” effect. Designed for skin that shows signs of loss of elasticity, it targets areas where fine lines are most evident – around the eyes, mouth and nose and across the forehead. It also “lifts” and firms the cheeks, jawline and neck.

1. Avoid and reduce stress as much as possible. Stress is one of the most common causes of premature ageing, so take time to relax and have a little humour in your life.

The treatment consists of three phases: the vitamin-enriched serum, the thermal treatment mask and the firming massage. The facial finishes with the

Bath out - Shower in

FITTED IN JUST ONE DAY!* NO MESS! NO FUSS! NO RE-TILING!

The great thing about all facial treatments for many of us, of course, is that it’s such an enjoyable and luxurious process that we automatically come away feeling much more relaxed – and thus also much younger looking!

TOP TIPS FOR STAYING YOUNG FOR LONGER

Liftosome Facial – This facial treatment has been specially developed to treat the problems associated with mature skin including lack of skin tone and loss of radiance. With age or fatigue, we notice a slackening and loss of firmness of the skin, especially in the cheeks, chin and neck. This is largely caused by the deterioration of the elastic fibres of the dermis. The skin loses density and becomes dehydrated, resulting in dryness, wrinkling and slackening.

NO WORRIES!

application of moisturisers to the face, neck and eye area.

2. Spend as much time with your family and friends. An increase in social connections can help improve the quality of life and can influence life extension.

3. Oxygen is vital for keeping your body healthy. Make sure you get plenty of fresh air and ensure you have plenty of plants around you at home and at work.

4. Whilst keeping active can help fight the loss of stamina, muscle strength, balance and bone density associated with ageing. Exercising your mind is equally important to exercising your body. A healthy and active mind will

help you feel younger. Try learning something new to keep your brain stimulated.

5. Having the right amount of sleep is essential to staying young. Taking a short nap can make a huge difference to thinking clearly and feeling happy, but make sure it’s just after lunch so that night sleeping is not disrupted.

6. Keep the brain active by doing something new every day – clean your teeth with the other hand or take a new route to work 7. Laughter releases endorphins thus relieving pain, reduces stress hormones and boosts the immunity system. So put on those comedy DVDs and laugh a lot!

8. The facial feedback hypothesis suggests that facial expressions influence our emotions. So smile and feel better. It’s the greatest facelift in the world!

9. Stand tall. Good posture can make us look 10 years younger and much more confidant.

10. A suntan makes us look healthy and vibrant, but in the long run it’s terribly ageing. A little colour with the protection of sunscreen is the answer.

STRUGGLE TO GET IN & OUT OF YOUR OLD BATH? Designed to fit in the same space as your old bath, the Shower Module’s unique construction enables it to be FITTED IN JUST ONE DAY* with NO MESS, NO FUSS and NO RE-TILING either! ● ● ● ● ● ●

Fits in same space as your old bath!

GLASS PROTECTION

Protects against the build-up of grime, lime scale and stains.

Easy clean tile effect - no re-tiling or mouldy grout!

Easy access NEW lower step Optional seat and grab rail Assistance pole Slip resistant floor Built-in shelving

OVER 20,000

INSTALLATIONS IN THE UK Available with full height sliding doors or half height hinged door and panel

Half height hinged door and panel option

SHOWER STANDING UP OR SITTING DOWN WITH THE OPTIONAL FOLD DOWN SEAT. * Time based on straightforward fitting.

FOR MORE DETAILS AND FREE BROCHURE

FREEPHONE 0800 316 0110

Ask for Ext. 53456

Please contact me to arrange a FREE no-obligation Home Survey Please send me a FREE brochure on the Aquability Low Access Shower Module

Name

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Postcode Lines open 24 hours 7 days a week. Or return coupon to FREEPOST RRGY-AHAX-AHSX, Aquability UK Ltd, Farnborough, GU14 0NR. Or visit - www.aquability.com Send to: FREEPOST RRGY-AHAX-AHSX, Aquability UK Ltd, Farnborough, GU14 0NR.

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Serving adults with physical, or mental impairment and other conditions n Person-centred approach n Improving independence and inclusion n Enhancing quality of life

We look after people Whatever your needs‌ helping you get the best out of life!

n Support for you at home n Day Services in your local area n Short break, respite and intermediate care n When needed... we’ll be there to help n Creating peace of mind for carers and families

For more information call 0151 934 3726 42 or visit www.ndirections.co.uk

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LMH Sheltered Housing Liverpool Mutual Homes provides sheltered retirement accommodation for residents aged 55 years or over in each of our 17 purpose built schemes located across Liverpool. Our schemes benefit from extensive mature gardens, quality fixtures and fittings and have an ongoing programme of fitting new level access bathroom facilities and modern designer kitchens in progress.

Scheme Name

Address

Telephone Number

Alderwood Lodge

2 East Mains, Speke L24

0151 425 4562

Appledore Court

Dymchurch Road, Speke L24

0151 486 8460

Carnarvon Court

Carnarvon Road, Walton L9

0151 521 3236

Devon Court

Tynmouth Close, Anfield L5

0151 260 4348

Dingle Grange

Dingle Brow, Beloe Street L8

0151 727 3885

Flaxman Court

Botanic Grove, Edge Lane L7

0151 264 9783

Handel Court

Lodge Lane, Liverpool L8

0151 727 8302

Kilrea Lodge

Kilrea Close, West Derby L11

0151 256 6277

Mazenod Court

Addison Way, Holy Cross L3

0151 236 1887

Meadow Court

Out Lane, Woolton L25

0151 428 5393

Parkhill Court

Parkhill Road, Liverpool L8

0151 727 5204

Pine Lodge

Crain Close, Walton L4

0151 260 4144

Portland Gardens

Walsh Close, Vauxhall L5

0151 207 3590

Shallcross Court

Breckfield Rd South, Liverpool L6

0151 263 5965

Telford Court

Harbord Street, Liverpool L7

0151 708 9601

Thomas Winder Court

Great Mersey Street, Liverpool L5

0151 207 6838

White Oak Lodge

Beechwood Road, Liverpool L19

0151 427 9158

If you think that LMH Sheltered Housing could be for you, why not pay us a visit and see the services and facilities we offer?

To make arrangements please call any of the schemes listed. www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Further information is available online at www.liverpoolmutualhomes.org

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If your life is touched by dementia...

...Hatherlow House could offer you peace of mind The opportunity for couples to continue sharing life together, with specialist care and community support.

We are MHA, with almost 70 years’ experience of caring for older people, helping to pioneer person-centred dementia care.

continue enjoying the freedom and fulfilment of a life together, with care tailored to your needs, and excellent communal facilities.

At Hatherlow House we offer people with dementia and their partners the best of both worlds: the privacy and dignity of your own beautifully finished apartment, whilst living in a friendly community providing life-enhancing specialist care and support.

• Purpose built 1 and 2 bedroom apartments • The privacy and pleasure of your own home.

• Specialist safety and security measures • Full 24-hour emergency response • Optional specialist care, tailored to you • Residents’ lounge; Café bistro • Hair salon/therapy suite

This innovative approach has been developed to provide the best possible environment for couples, where one partner has dementia. It enables you to

If you’re thinking about a move to Hatherlow House, ask about our try before you buy opportunity.

Apartments available to rent or purchase from

£87,475 (50% shared ownership)

Hatherlow House, 27 Park Crescent, Southport PR9 9LR To find out more about our services, or try before you buy please telephone 01332 296200 or email: sales@mha.org.uk Methodist Homes (MHA) Registered as a Charity - No. 1083995 Company Limited by Guarantee - No. 4043124

A button that could save your life!

VNC Lifeline are your friendly, emergency alarm people. Our service allows you to press for help, 24 hours a day from anywhere in your home. We then ensure that you get the help you need.

Whether for yourself, or a loved one, being able to live independently at home means everything.

The alarm costs just £2.99 per week, with a one-off installation charge of £25.

This is excellent value for money for the peace of mind that you can enjoy.

For more information about how the service works, or for a FREE demonstration, call 0845 075 3900, or visit www.vnclifeline.co.uk 44VNC Lifeline is a not-for-profit company, based in Liverpool.

EOEffer for R F n o ti stalla

In readers. all ‘50 Plus’ feline

your Li You can have free (usually installed for u pay is your o £25), so all y nitoring fee! o m ly k e we ‘50PLFI’ Please quotelling. when ca

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Personal attention and service guaranteed Is old age getting the better of you or a loved one? Do you want assistance from experienced professionals?

Then look no further than Castletown Homecare.Your mobility matters to them and they can help!

• Quality Customer Service • Experienced Friendly Advice • Free Home Demo/Trial • Full Warranty

Founded over 18 years ago, the business based in Southport twon centre has gone from strength to strength. Castletown are specialists in the mobility industry and offer a second to none advice/ supply service for a whole range of mobility and nursing equipment. Their services include sales and delivery of mobility and continence products, from a £1.50 walking stick tip to a £2000 scooter, rentals of wheelchairs / high seat chairs / walking equipment are available, free home demonstrations, free at home trial periods.

Free professional advice and home visits. Castletown will endeavour to deliver your item on the same day with no delivery charge. Their staff offer a confidential continence advisory service and have over 35 years experience in the healthcare industry.

Owned and managed by Caroline Rodwell, Castletown Homecare offers the customer a personal caring service that bigger stores and catalogues can't offer.

Caroline said "Our customers are going to get personal attention, they are going to get experienced advice and all our products are competitively priced. We are also starting to offer some homecare services to our regular customers who need a little help with the shopping and daily chores"

Castletown Homecare really is Southport's leader when it comes to personal service and experienced advice to help you with your independence!

We stock a wide range of: • Scooters • Wheelchairs • Rise/Recline Chairs • Stairlifts • Bathlifters • Adjustable Beds • Daily Living Aids • Healthcare Products

15 Union Street, Southport PR9 0QF Tel: 01704 532567 www.castletownhomecare.co.uk

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45

Asmall Hall Care Home

“Excellence Comes as Standard”

Providing Short Term or Long Term Care for adults including Day Care.

Our 17th Century, prestigious building set in 5 acres of gardens and, opened as a care home more than 20 years ago. Whilst retaining its many original homely features and comforts, we have adapted to provide a luxury, caring facility. Situated within 2 miles of Ormskirk centre, only half a mile from the bus stop makes us within reach of many other community activities by mini-bus or taxi.

Inspection invited without obligation where some of our devoted staff have worked at the home since its opening in 1991. We at Asmall Hall pride ourselves in the delivery of high quality, Person Centered Care by providing regular training and supervision for our staff as we aim to maintain and continually improve our services for your benefit.

A Quality Service is the only acceptable one!

Proprietors and Managers are Mrs. Jennifer and Mr. Allen Chapman with Unit Manager Mrs. Tracey Farrington.

To achieve and enhance our high standards of care on a continual basis, we are working towards the National ‘Gold Standard Framework’ for end of life care.

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• Open Visiting • On Site Chapel/Prayer Room • Own Minibus for use of regular outings • Full social calendar (by our activities co-ordinators) • Own Hairdresser Asmall Hall prides itself in offering home cooked food wherever possible and choice of menu is available including special medical diets as medically prescribed and the majority of bedrooms are single although we also offer 3 double rooms, if this is desired.

Short term care is available if someone is recovering folloing surgery or hospital stay and requires that extra support in the time whilst they recover enough to live independently again at home.

Registered and caring for both male and female clients we offer a relaxed but staff competent environment including Qualified Nurses on duty for each 24 hour period with the majority of Care Staff having N.V.Q. qualifications or equivalent.

Registered and inspected regularly for the Quality Standard BS EN ISO 9001:2002, Asmall Hall Management are continually looking to improve the delivery of care standards to ‘Best Practice’ levels.

Tel: 01695 579548

Asmall Hall Care Home, Asmall Lane, Scarisbrick, Ormskirk, Lancashire L40 8JL. www.asmallhallcarehome.co.uk www.50plusmagazine.co.ukFax: 01695 579978 email: asmallmatron@aol.com QUALITY GUILD

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