Oldham, rochdale & tameside 55

MARCH - MAY 2018

OLDHAM, ROCHDALE & TAMESIDE EDITION 55

Debbie Harry

Simple Ways to Update your Home

DELIGHTING UK AUDIENCES SINCE THE 70’S

James Martin's Slow Cooking

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SPECIAL EDITION BASED ON THE AWARD WINNING SWIFT ESCAPE • EXCLUSIVE BLACK CAB • HIGH SPEC DAB AND SAT NAV • REAR VIEW CAMERA AND SCREEN • PULL OUT AWNING • 100W SOLAR PANEL • WINTER PACK • FRONT OPENING SUNROOF • CENTRAL LOCKING INCLUDING HABITATION DOOR

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HOWARD ON 07816 669 264 OR GARY ON 07970 070 607 sales@glossopcaravans.co.uk

glossopcaravans.co.uk

Tel: 01457 868011

offering unbeatable value for money for the past 25 years - and they’ve never been more popular,” said Stan and Brian Laing, Joint Managing Directors, Glossop Caravans.

“Over the past few years, they’ve won a string of prestigious awards for their high standards of design and workmanship, which have raised the bar and also proved a huge hit with our customers.

“Their positive feedback has persuaded us to take the plunge and work with both Elddis and Swift to offer the same top quality features and attention to detail at competitive prices in our new Special Edition motorhomes 2018.

GLOSSOP CARAVANS BREAKS NEW FRONTIERS WITH A LUXURY RANGE OF SPECIAL EDITION MOTORHOMES

“Motorhomes are becoming increasingly popular as more and more people discover the freedom and flexibility they can bring to their leisure time - whether on carefree weekends away, once-in-alifetime road trips or midlife ‘gap’ years.

“We look forward to welcoming as many visitors as possible to Glossop, to see for themselves the quality and variety of the specially appointed vehicles now available.”

The range of Special Edition caravans has also been extended with the introduction of the Swift Celebrate based on the UKs best selling caravan, the Sprite. Fans of the company’s Special Edition caravans will appreciate the Swift Celebration’s chic new look - grey and gold upholstery and geometricpatterned curtains and cushions - plus a new 2018 Elddis Chatsworth option, the 462 lightweight two-berth.

Superb quality at very competitive prices was assured as Glossop Caravans launched its first-ever range of Special Edition motorhomes at The Caravan & Motorhome Show 2018, EventCity, Manchester in January.

Customer demand has persuaded the family-run company to extend long-established relationships with leading UK manufacturers Elddis and Swift to create a luxuriouslyappointed selection to complement its popular Special Edition Caravans.

Models from the brand new Elddis Chatsworth and Swift Celebration ranges - which both include two-berth to sixberth options – were on show alongside the company’s Special Edition 2018 Coachman Festival, Elddis Chatsworth and Swift Celebration caravans at the Manchester show.

Customers keen to find out more about the Special Edition ranges are able to browse details online at www.glossopcaravans.co.uk; print brochures are also available.

“We’ve been working in close partnership with the UK’s top three manufacturers to create high-specification caravans

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TWITTER

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Twittering on With Angela Kelly Just get on with life – don’t dissect it I’M not a major fan of New Year Resolutions – mostly because my track record means I hardly ever keep them beyond January 12.

debbie Harry delighting uk audiences since the 70's PAGES 12-13

However, I’m going to make an exception this year, thanks to a rather game 90 year-old called Vera. She booked an 11-day P & O cruise with a 91 year-old man she had met just 45 minutes before.

She was on a coach trip and when they stopped for lunch, this charmer called John – not with her group – got chatting to Vera over a glass of wine about holidays. The upshot was that he took her over the road to the travel agents and paid £3,700 for them to have an 11-day Mediterranean trip.

TRAVEL...

bspoke tours - bike and boat PAGES 8-9

HOME...

SIMPLE WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR HOME Pages 18-19

james martin's slow cooking recipes PAGES 20-22

It was all above board: they had separate beds and enjoyed a lovely time. But the really interesting bit of this rather sweet tale is Vera’s take on the whole thing. When asked why she had done it, she replied: “I would say to people ‘Seize the day’.”

Coming from a feisty 90 year-old, that is good advice. In other words, don’t waste too much time pondering over everything – just get on with living.

Now that will mean different things to different people. To the adventurous, it might mean going travelling for a year, sailing right around the British Isles, finally getting a tattoo or changing your hair colour – or your husband.

It might be something much less dramatic like taking a new work qualification, starting a particular hobby you’ve always been interested in or booking that longed-for sunshine holiday.

Whatever it is, the message is clear.

Life is just too short to worry too much

about the small stuff. So why not grab it by the horns and simply enjoy it?

And the interesting postscript to Vera’s story is that John asked her to go on holiday with him again – to the Caribbean. Our Vera, though, has other plans. “I just haven’t got the time to waste,” she stated. “I could pop off tomorrow – I’ve got things to do.” Just love it!

Old stations and routes could be back on track THE name “Dr Beeching” may not mean much these days but at one time it was synonymous with the destruction of the Great British Railway as we knew it.

Richard Beeching was, for a short time, chairman of British Rail as it then was and an affiliate of the Labour Party who, in the early 1960s, became a household name for restructuring the national rail network. His “axe” fell on more than 4,000 route miles and dozens of small stations were closed on cost and efficiency grounds.

His name has been back in the papers more recently because the current Government is suggesting re-opening some of these lost lines and stations in order to drive house-building nationally.

Irrespective of any political motives, this seems like a fascinating move to me and, I would guess, to many other people who love train travel. It’s such a sensible way to move through this country of ours, seeing villages and towns in a relaxed way that driving can never offer.

Of course, it won’t be like in Dr Beeching’s day. Trains and train travel have altered dramatically in the intervening years. Although trains are generally more comfortable, a lack of investment and rolling stock has also meant that some busy commuter routes

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have turned into “sardine specials” with passengers cramped and standing in a small number of carriages.

working life of checking and re-checking information before it goes out to the public.

The plan may mean, though, much better and easier journeys for many, and the opening up of areas which currently struggle for direct transport. I suppose we shall see exactly what it involves as 2018 unfolds.

It’s just all too easy to see something online and take it as true because someone else has put it out there. Commonsense, really, dictates that we should question the source and try to verify it but sometimes I guess we just can’t be bothered.

For me, though, the plan transports me back to the regular train journeys when I was young and each Summer we journeyed to my mother’s home town of Swansea in South Wales and the glorious Mumbles’ coast. As the miles clicked by and all the little stations took us nearer to our destination, my Mum’s Welsh accent got broader and broader and we all became more relaxed.

All of which is why it’s good news that, according to a report from Ofcom – the UK’s communications’ regulator - children are becoming increasingly savvy about fake news on social media.

Trains do that. They allow you to sit back and consider life. And if this new plan promotes easier, stress-free travel then it will definitely be a move in the right direction.

Here is the news – and it’s actually true WE’VE all heard plenty about “fake news” over the last year or two and how information can be manipulated especially via social media.

As a journalist, I’m always horrified that anyone will accept spurious stories on face-value because I’ve had a

More than half of youngsters aged 12 to 15 use Facebook and Twitter to access news online. Often, they click on stories that have been recommended by “friends” in their network or by users they “follow”.

They like to access news in this way. Now, however, they are becoming more selective about trusting these articles.

The majority are making an effort to check out these items for veracity, possibly with other news’ sources, and are also checking if it was published by an organisation they can trust.

This is very heartening, especially as, if they do discover an item is fake, they will often alert parents or another family member and may post comments telling others that it’s false.

All we need now is for adults to follow their lead and question news’ sources, relevance and accuracy and we’ll raise news’ reporting standards at a stroke.

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

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

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

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

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ROBINSONS OWN HOTELS 2018

Book from listedprices pricesbelow* below* Book fromthis thisleaflet advertand andsave save £10.00 £10.00 off off the the listed

South West Coast, Torquay Abbey Lawn Hotel

A stunning seaside resort located in Devon, Torquay is a jewel in the English Riviera. The iconic palm trees and international marina could fool you into thinking you were in the Mediterranean!

Price Includes: 4 or 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at the Abbey Lawn Hotel 5 day tour: visits to Plymouth & Newton Abbot

Abbey Lawn Hotel Hotel Facilities ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Ensuite Rooms Traditional English Breakfast Lunch available Waiter service Table d’hote menu *A la carte menu Lift to all floors Lounge & Bar Wifi in public areas Garden Conservatory Heated indoor swimming pool ✓ Ballroom/dance floor ✓ 24hr reception ✓ Porterage *supplement applies

8 day tour: visits to Dartmoor & Exeter and Teignmouth

South Coast, Eastbourne Imperial Hotel

Eastbourne, of Saxon origin, is an unspoilt elegant Victorian seaside resort. Nestling under the Sussex Downs it enjoys a very clement climate all year round, it has one of the top sunshine records in the UK and offers a variety of ways for you to unwind and relax.

Price Includes:

4 or 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at the Imperial Hotel 5 day tour: visits to Brighton & Battle and Hastings (1066 Country) 8 day tour 15A: visits to Windsor & Royal Tunbridge Wells 8 day tour 15B: visits to Chartwell House & Brighton

Shanklin, Isle of Wight Ocean View Hotel

Located on the historical Isle of Wight, Shanklin is home to our very own Ocean View Hotel. The Isle of Wight has captured the hearts of many household names we all know and love today, from Winston Churchill, Charles Darwin and Charles Dickens to the Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.

Price Includes:

4 or 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at the Ocean View Hotel 5 day tour: visits to Osborne House & Ryde & the Military Museum 8 day tour 18A: visits to West Island Tour & Ryde via Havenstreet & Ashley 8 day tour 18B: visits to West Island Tour & Osborne House

Imperial Hotel Hotel Facilities ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Ensuite Rooms Traditional English Breakfast Lunch available Waiter service Table d’hote menu *A la carte menu Lift to all floors Lounge & Bar Coffee Lounge Wifi in public areas Ballroom/dance floor 24hr reception

✓ Porterage *supplement applies

Ocean View Hotel Hotel Facilities ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Ensuite Rooms Traditional English Breakfast Lunch available Waiter service Table d’hote menu *A la carte menu Lift to all floors Lounge & Bar Wifi in public areas Garden Heated indoor swimming pool ✓ Ballroom/dance floor ✓ 24hr reception ✓ Porterage *supplement applies

5 day tours: 01M 4 nights, DBB Sat 05 May 2018

£199.00

Mon 04 Jun 2018

£239.00

Thu 10 May 2018

£219.00

Sat 09 Jun 2018

£239.00

Tue 15 May 2018

£219.00

Thu 14 Jun 2018

£239.00

Sun 20 May 2018

£225.00

Tue 19 Jun 2018

£249.00

Fri 25 May 2018

£225.00

Sun 24 Jun 2018

£249.00

Wed 30 May 2018

£229.00

Fri 29 Jun 2018

£249.00

8 day tours: 11A 7 nights, DBB Sat 28 Apr 2018

£349.00

Sat 30 Jun 2018

£409.00

Sat 12 May 2018

£369.00

Sat 28 Jul 2018

£409.00

5 & 8 Day tour supplements per person: Front Facing Room £5.00 per person per night / Premier Room (including front facing view) / £10.00 per person per night

5 day tours: 05M 4 nights, DBB Sat 05 May 2018 Thu 10 May 2018 Tue 15 May 2018 Sun 20 May 2018 Fri 25 May 2018 Wed 30 May 2018 Mon 04 Jun 2018

£199.00 £219.00 £219.00 £225.00

£225.00

£229.00

£239.00

Sat 09 Jun 2018

£239.00

Thu 14 Jun 2018

£239.00

Tue 19 Jun 2018 Sun 24 Jun 2018 Fri 29 Jun 2018 Wed 04 Jul 2018 Mon 09 Jul 2018 Sat 14 Jul 2018 Thu 19 Jul 2018 Sun 29 Jul 2018

£249.00 £249.00 £249.00

£249.00

£249.00

£249.00 £249.00 £249.00

8 day tours: 15A/15B 7 nights, DBB Sat 07 Apr 2018 Sun 08 Apr 2018 Sat 21 Apr 2018 Sun 22 Apr 2018 Sat 28 Apr 2018

£289.00 £289.00 £325.00 £325.00

£349.00

Sat 12 May 2018 Sat 19 May 2018 Sat 26 May 2018 Sat 02 Jun 2018 Sat 28 Jul 2018

£369.00 £379.00 £389.00

£399.00

£409.00

5 & 8 Day tour supplements per person: Premier Room £5.00 per person per night

5 day tours: 08M 4 nights, DBB Mon 30 Apr 2018 Sat 05 May 2018 Thu 10 May 2018 Sun 20 May 2018 Fri 25 May 2018 Wed 30 May 2018 Mon 04 Jun 2018 Sat 09 Jun 2018

£189.00 £199.00 £219.00 £225.00 £225.00 £229.00 £239.00 £239.00

Tue 19 Jun 2018 Sun 24 Jun 2018 Fri 29 Jun 2018 Wed 04 Jul 2018 Sat 14 Jul 2018 Thu 19 Jul 2018 Tue 24 Jul 2018 Sun 29 Jul 2018

£249.00 £249.00 £249.00 £249.00 £249.00 £249.00 £249.00 £249.00

Sat 07 Apr 2018 Sat 14 Apr 2018 Sun 15 Apr 2018 Sat 21 Apr 2018 Sat 28 Apr 2018 Sun 29 Apr 2018 Sat 05 May 2018 Sun 06 May 2018

£289.00 £299.00 £299.00 £325.00 £349.00 £349.00 £359.00 £359.00

Sun 13 May 2018 Sat 19 May 2018 Sat 09 Jun 2018 Sun 10 Jun 2018 Sat 16 Jun 2018 Sat 23 Jun 2018 Sun 22 Jul 2018 Sat 28 Jul 2018

£369.00 £379.00 £409.00 £409.00 £409.00 £409.00 £409.00 £409.00

8 day tours: 18A/18B 7 nights, DBB

Sat 12 May 2018 £369.00 5 & 8 Day tour supplements per person: Sea View Room £5.00 per person per night / Premier Room (including sea view) / £10.00 per person per night

Freephone 0800 083 9900 or contact your local travel agent • Visit us online at: www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk

*offer applies to new bookings only Offer Ends 30th April 2018

CONTINENTAL OFFERS 2018

Bookfrom fromthis thisleaflet advertand andreceive receivesavings savingsof ofup up to to £40.00 £40.00per per couple* couple* Book

Ostend

Costa Brava

Bruges and Antwerp - 5 days

The Black Forest Hideaway

Roses - 10 days

NO

Baden-Baden and Titisee - 8 days

NO

WO

NO

WO

£34 NLY 9 PP

WO

£69 NLY 5 PP

£71 NLY 5 PP

Monday 4th June 2018

Tuesday 5th June 2018

Saturday 16th June 2018

Ostend is the largest and most popular resort on the Belgian North Sea coast with fine sandy beaches stretching for miles with shops, cafes, bars and restaurants.

The former Greek colony of Roses stretches between the sea and the mountains in the northern area of Costa Brava. The town is popular for its splendid beaches.

The Black Forest or Schwarzwald, is one of the most beautiful regions of Germany, bordered by the Rhine to the west. A wonderfully picturesque region.

Single Room Supplement - £89

Single Room Supplement - £199

Single Room Supplement - £130

Price Includes:

Price Includes:

Price Includes:

✓ Pickup from your local joining point

✓ Door to Door transport ✓ Channel crossing via Eurotunnel ✓ 1 night bed and breakfast in the Orlean area ✓ 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at the Hotel Coral Platja ✓ 1 night bed and breakfast in the Reims area ✓ Visits to Girona, Costa Brava, Figueres

✓ Pickup from your local joining point

✓ Channel crossing via Eurotunnel ✓ 4 nights Dinner bed and Breakfast at the Princess Hotel ✓ Visit to the Historic city of Bruges ✓ Visit to Antwerp

Tour Code: OSTE / 4 nights DBB

Lake Garda

The Dolomites and Venice - 10 days

Tour Code: SPAI / 2 nights BB / 7 nights DBB

Treasures of Tuscany 10 days

NO

✓ Channel crossing via Eurotunnel ✓ 5 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at the Landhotel Rebstock ✓ 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast on the outward and return journeys in Douai ✓ Visits to Freudenstadt and Baden-Baden & Triberg and Lake Titisee

Tour Code: BLAC / 7 nights DBB

Lake Como

the Italian Lakes & Switzerland - 10 days

NO

WO

NO

WO

£82 NLY 5 PP

WO

£74 NLY 5 PP

£95 NLY 9 PP

Tuesday 19th June 2018

Tuesday 3rd July 2018

Tuesday 24th July 2018

The sheer splendour of Italy’s largest lake is legendary. Charming waterside resorts and villages lie sheltered before a stunning backdrop of mountain scenery.

Tuscany is a remarkable region of unspoilt beauty where historic cities and ancient villages lie amidst rolling green hills. Our base is the famous spa town of Montecatini.

Lake Como is regarded as one of the most spectacular of all Italian Lakes and the deepest in Italy, with pretty villages that line its shore.

Single Room Supplement - £179

Single Room Supplement - £229

Single Room Supplement - £179

Price Includes:

Price Includes:

Price Includes:

✓ Door to Door transport

✓ Door to Door transport

✓ Channel crossing via Eurotunnel

✓ Channel crossing via Eurotunnel

✓ 1 night bed and breakfast in Metz

✓ 1 night bed and breakfast on both the outward and return journeys in Troyes

✓ Door to Door transport ✓ Channel crossing via Eurotunnel ✓ 1 night bed and breakfast in the Metz area ✓ 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at the Grand Hotel Cadenabbia ✓ 1 night bed and breakfast in the Reims area ✓ Visits to Lugano, Milan & St Moritz

✓ 7 nights dinner bed and breakfast at the Hotel Sole ✓ 1 night bed and breakfast in Reims ✓ Visits to Verona, Venice & The Dolomites

Tour Code: GARD / 2 nights BB / 7 nights DBB

✓ 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at the Grand Hotel Plaza ✓ Visits to Florence, Lucca & Siena

Tour Code: TUSC / 2 nights BB / 7 nights DBB

Tour Code: COMO / 2 nights BB / 7 nights DBB

Freephone 0800 083 9900 or contact your local travel agent • Visit us online at: www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk

*offer applies to new bookings only Offer Ends 30th April 2018

50 Plus Travel

sponsored by Accommodation is in compact, en-suite cabins of varying configurations – again, all combinations happily satisfied.

Breakfast of the hearty continental variety and a tasty 3 course dinner, using produce bought en route, was served onboard each day. We were introduced to the ‘packed’ lunch by our charming Italian crew: essentially cheese, cold meats, fruit, chocolate bars and rolls were provided each morning so you could create your own picnic to eat along the way. Although it must be said that we stopped each day near cafes, so there was always the chance to have a plate of pasta or pizza instead.

Bspoke Tours – Bike and Boat

By Jennie Carr from Silver Travel Advisor The best things in life are so often simple, and so it is with Bspoke Tours and their Bike and Boat trip in Italy, cycling from Venice to Mantua. Take a large converted barge, many bicycles (some electric), an international group of passengers of all ages, great Italian food, a hilarious and charming crew and two expert guides for a week of cycling along the mighty River Po. You cycle along the rivers during the day, meeting the boat late afternoon, for a short cruise to an evening destination, where you take a walk for cultural points of interest, have dinner onboard and then repeat again tomorrow! It’s a recipe that’s attractive to couples, single travellers and families – we had three generations on our trip, which was in total a small group of around 30. We travelled with Italians, Swiss, Brits, Germans, Canadians and Americans. What’s more the cycling is flat, a word I like in relation to bicycles.

Distance I can do, hills I’m not keen on. Everyone is provided for – the ebikes a real bonus for older legs and

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clever tandems, where a child’s bike can couple (and de-couple) easily from an adult bike for younger legs. Our age range of 7 and a half (most important) to 82 worked beautifully!

This trip is a variation of the escorted tour (a self-guided option is available) and as always in this situation, much depends on your guides. Our Dutch, endlessly energetic and efficient Hugo, proficient in all languages needed (at least 5!) and a positive walking Wiki on this route was partnered by Italian, friendly Frederico – a European version of Little and Large, if I’m honest! We were delighted to leave the planning and logistics in their highly capable hands, we woke up and did as instructed – a holiday in itself. And I must highly commend the ‘extras’ which we were not expecting, walks around

TRAVEL

the destinations where we moored, full of interest and information. I’m always humbled by in-depth knowledge – Hugo had it in spades!

We hit the trail on day 3, having spent time in Venice on foot on the day before. The boat left Venice, in the mist, very evocative, with a parting glance at St Mark’s from the water. We headed to the island Litorale di Lido, playground of the rich and famous, glamourous and sophisticated, as could be seen from the fabulous houses.

Mornings started briskly at about 8am for breakfast and ‘packed’ lunch

making, with seats in the saddle being taken by 9am at the latest! The 7.57am to Marylebone it was not. A pitstop at a beach café and then on to ferry for 5 minutes to Pellestrina, with an entirely different atmosphere: it is a working fisherman’s island with scores of trawlers along the promenade. You sense not much has changed here in generations. Just one bar was open for lunchtime drinks, the siesta is still an essential part of life here. The cycling was easy along well marked trails or almost empty roads. We picked up the boat and sailed to Chioggia, for an afternoon walk in the sunshine. The town has an impressive fishing fleet and is a combination of working port, with a charming town.

Our evening routine then followed: shower and change, pre-dinner drinks on the sun deck, a hilarious explanation of the meal by our Italian chefs (a career in TV must surely be waiting!) and then we ate companionably at three long tables, a set menu with variations for any with ‘dietary requirements’.

Good value local wines (including a very decent Amarone), beer and soft drinks were available and paid for at the end of the trip. We took a further evening stroll in Chioggia, although bed was calling after all the fresh air and exercise!

No sluggards on this trip, and we were excited to enjoy what each day would bring. Hugo’s enthusiasm, the jolly exchanges with our companions and the sheer glory of Italy, fresh air and exercise made this week filled with pleasure and many happy memories, and remarkably free of any aches and pains.

Silver Travel Advisor recommends BSpoke Bike & Boat Holidays. Visit www.BSpoketours.com or call 020 7471 7750 for more details.

Prices from £1,025 including • Full board - all meals included • Flights and transfers • Luggage transfers • Route maps and instructions

HAVE YOU SOLD PRINT OR ADVERTISING? If so would you like to work with us?

Opportunities are available with McGrath Media to sell into our 50 Plus Magazine and promote our print services.

EXPERIENCE ESSENTIAL NO AGE RESTRICTIONS Contact: John McGrath on 01204 238180 email: john@mcgrathmedia.co.uk

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www.ellensmith.co.uk

Why not join one of our Quality Door to Door Coach Tours?

We pick- up at your door in most of the Greater Manchester area. We visit every part of the UK from the Shetland Islands to Cornwall. Our drivers are very experienced mature individuals with a wealth of knowledge about our wonderful country. We do city breaks, historic adventures, scenic tours, train rides, boat rides, canal trips, not forgetting our numerous coastal resorts.

On your first day of travel we pick you up at your front door at a pre-arranged time in a minibus or taxi. You are then transferred to a central meeting point, either Birch Services or Poplar Services dependant upon where you live, where the coach is waiting for you.

Within 15 to 30 minutes you’re on your way aboard our luxury coach travelling directly to your holiday destination, making suitable stops en-route. The hotels that we use are of a 3 or 4 star standard or occasionally a good quality family run 2 star hotel. Upon your return to either Birch Services or Poplar your taxi or minibus is waiting to whisk you home.

Included in every tour... l

Good Standard Hotel l Half Board l All Excursions l Door to Door Service

Ellen Smith Price Promise 1. Everything is included in the final price – no hidden charges 2. Every customer will pay the same price - no last minute reductions!

3. No currency charges - even post Brexit!

4. Any additional charges from the hotel will be passed on without surcharge 5. If you find a similar holiday cheaper we'll refund the difference to the whole coach

rs 2 018

Tenby THE GILTAR HOTEL With its pastel coloured buildings, narrow streets, fortified walls and bustling atmosphere, Tenby is one of the prettiest resorts in South Wales.

26th March - 5 Days - £369

DO OR TO DO OR

CALL FOR FREE 2018 BROCHURE

Coach Tou

A SELECTION OF OUR 2018 COACH TOURS

www.ellens mith.co.uk Membership No: 10228

Blackpool Doric Hotel Blackpool is Britain’s most loved holiday destination, which should come as no surprise when you think about the huge range of attractions available all year round, as well as the new seafront, world class events and spectacular lighting shows.

2nd April - 5 Days - £229

Lytham & St Annes LINDUM HOTEL The seaside towns of Lytham and St Annes have a wide choice of places to eat and stay, a fantasic events programme throughout the year. Experience the wide open sandy beaches of St Anne’s with its traditional pier, beach huts, mini links golf, or the pretty green and historic windmill on Lytham Green offering views across to Southport and even North Wales on a clear sunny day.

16th April - 5 Days - £319

Coast to Coast and the ‘Jacobite Express’ ALEXANDRA HOTEL This exciting two-centre tour provides the perfect opportunity to explore the wonderful scenery of the west coast of Scotland, the delights of the east coast and so much more in between.

19th April - 7 Days - £559

Scarborough THE ESPLANADE HOTEL Scarborough enjoys an unrivalled position as one of Britain’s premier coastal resorts yet also lies tantalising close to North Yorkshire’s rugged National Park.

On this holiday you can enjoy the golden beaches, superb parks and gardens and a wide range of leisure amenities which have given Scarborough its justifiable reputation, as well as the natural beauty and historical heritage of Yorkshire.

23rd April - 5 Days - £299

Bournemouth MAYFAIR HOTEL The jewel of Britain’s South Coast, Bournemouth is a vibrant and colourful resort with miles of sandy beaches and panoramic views of the coastline, as well as a cosmopolitan and cultural town centre with hundreds of restaurants and bars that come alive long after the sun has gone down.

29th April - 6 Days - £329

INTERESTED?

The Beautiful Lake District SKIDDAW HOTEL Immortalised by artists, poets & writers The Lake District plays host to the many visitors who return year after year to enjoy the magnificent scenery.

6th May - 5 Days - £399

Call our reservations office on 01706 648126 and request a copy of our 2018 brochure. You’ll be surprised at the variations of tours we operate. Visit our website at www.ellensmith.co.uk

Llandudno MARLBOROUGH HOTEL Llandudno is Wales's largest resort, uniquely situated between the Great and Little Ormes with two wonderful beaches, the award winning North Shore and the quiet, sand duned West Shore.

23rd April - 5 Days - £279

Eastbourne HADDON HALL HOTEL Feel the energy of our endless blue skies, sweeping South Downs countryside, colourful art scene and warm sunshine, as Visit Eastbourne guides you through charming places to stay,

19th May - 8 Days - £489

Find us on facebook & twitter (search for ellensmithtours)

Debbie Harry

Delighting UK Audiences Since The 70’s DEBBIE Harry has been delighting UK audiences in the same way that she first did 50 years ago – with a mixture of talent and charisma.

The Blondie star is unbelievably now 72 and still looks like the startling singer who first crashed into the public consciousness in the early 1970s.

Her career is the stuff of films. In fact, glamorous Malin Akerman did play her in a film about seminal punk club CBGB. But any director would struggle to cover the broad spread of events, achievements and milestones in her life so far.

She was born Angela Tremble in Miami, Florida but at three months was adopted by Catherine and Richard Smith Harry and raised in Hawthorne, New Jersey.

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In the 1960s, she worked as a Playboy Bunny and hung out at Max’s Kansas City, a famous nightspot frequented by pop artist Andy Warhol. Her professional singing career began in 1968 as a backing singer with a folk band which later broke up but in 1973, she met Chris Stein who became her longtime boyfriend.

They were both in a group called the Stilletoes. Then, together, they created punk rock/New Wave group Blondie in 1974. It was originally called Angel and the Snake but eventually took its name from the catcalls numerous truck-drivers would yell out to Debbie in the street.

Her bleached blonde hair, sparkling green eyes, photogenic face and seductive voice teamed with a series of catchy songs - mostly co-writtten by her - quickly became a successful formula for the group. They swiftly transcended the cult elitism of punk to enjoy

mainstream hits in the US and UK, with Debbie taking on iconic status during the late 1970s and early 1980s.

She had always wanted to be an underground artist and her new role satisfied her. As she later recalled: “That was what I always felt was the beauty of rock ‘n’ roll, it was entertainment and showbiz yet it had the idea of the voice of the people. It had an essence to it which was socially motivated.

“Not that I want to change the world, you know? But it was sort of relevant to real life. It involved the real essence of poetry or the real essence of fine art.

But it was also entertainment. That was the real vitality.”

Whatever the formula, Blondie and Debbie Harry proved to be a major success with the record-buying public, sending hit singles like Heart of Glass, Picture This, Sunday Girl, Hanging on

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

Blondie in 1977

the Telephone, Call Me and the Tide is High soaring up the charts.

Like many groups do, however, Blondie broke up in 1982.

Debbie took a few years out to care for Chris Stein, who had been diagnosed with a rare auto-immune skin disease, then she moved onto a solo career.

This allowed her not only to record solo albums but to take up a film and TV career which saw her become a highly visible star. She played a female wrestler in Teaneck Tanzi on Broadway and even dyed her hair red for her role as James Woods’ masochistic girlfriend in the film Videodrome.

The British public clearly still has an appetite for both Blondie and its music, and they are certainly still fascinated

by Debbie Harry. She once said: “The only person I really believe in is me”. And perhaps it is that unique element of her that has so caught the attention of her fans over the years and is now bemusing a new generation.

Well, she is unusual. After all, not everyone can be immortalised as a Barbie Doll as she was – and still be wowing the concert crowds in her 70s.

Blondie re-formed in 1997 and achieved renewed success and a No.1 single in the UK with Maria in 1999 – exactly 20 years after the group’s first UK No.1 single with Heart of Glass. They have sold more than 40 million albums over the years.

The group has toured extensively and regularly throughout the world ever since and was inducted into the Rock ad Roll Hall of Fame in 2006.

Their 11th studio album, Pollinator, was released in May this year. The title is not a random choice. Debbie has long been associated with a variety of good causes and has put on many benefit shows for AIDS charities as well as being outspoken on various subjects.

She is currently running Blondie’s BEE Connected Campaign to raise awareness of the decline in the bee population by promoting organisations dedicated to conserving and improving the health of pollinators through education, consumer empowerment and political activation.

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Calculating the Cost of Care Home Fees...

And should you be paying them at all?

Care home fees are a hot topic for many reasons; we are all living longer and so our chances of requiring some variation of care are increasing, whether this be in a residential care home or via a package of care in our own properties.

There has also been a trend in recent years for adult children to move away from their home towns, and so away from their families, meaning that elderly relatives may have less informal assistance. Add in of course the rising costs of care are continually making headlines and we are all consequentially more aware of the issue. As a result, it is important to understand how the financial impact could affect you and your family and plan accordingly if possible.

Although the cost of Care Homes can vary across the country, on average you can expect to pay around £30,000 per year to live in a residential home and around £40,000 per year, maybe even more, if you require nursing care. There are circumstances in which the NHS will fund care in full (NHS continuing health care) but you would have to have severe health needs to qualify.

If you were to move into residential care and at that time the value of your assets (including your house) were more than £23,250, you would ordinarily have to pay the full cost yourself. If your assets were worth less than this, but more than

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£14,250, your Council should contribute.

And if your assets were below £14,250, the Council would cover the majority of the costs, although you would still have to contribute any income you receive (less the personal allowance of £24.90 per week).

Pearson Solicitors have acted for a number of families who have challenged care home funding and have been awarded thousands of pounds in compensation for fees they should not have been paying in the first place.

Continuing Healthcare is care provided by professionals over an extended period of time to meet the physical or mental health needs of a patient. These could have been caused by disability, accident or illness and continuing care needs are likely to be complex and substantial, with ongoing care needed.

It is funded by the NHS and can be provided either in a care home or your own home.

In 1999 a landmark ruling said the NHS was responsible for funding if the primary reason for extended care was a health need and each Primary Care Trust has its own procedures for dealing with such requests.

If you or a relative are in a nursing home because of mental or physical illness then you might be paying for something which could be funded by the NHS.

“My father had significant health needs, he was eligible for funding but I knew nothing about it, he was entitled to that money, he had worked hard all his life. Mr Talbot was sensitive in the handling of the case and helped my family and my father get what he deserved.”

Millennials Inheritance Boom thanks to Bank of Mum and Dad A recent report has revealed that millennials are set to benefit from an ‘inheritance boom’ bigger than that experienced by any other generation in the post-war period. The Resolution Foundation, the think-tank which carried out the research, defined millennials as people currently aged between 17 and 35, and found that those within this age bracket will be left record amounts of wealth by their ‘baby boomer’ parents and grandparents.

The so-called bank of Mum and Dad has also become, for many millennials, the only route into home ownership.

A report from a major building society recently predicted that parents will have lent more than £6.5bn in 2017 to help their children buy a home, a 30% increase on last year. All in all, the “bank” will support the purchase of £75bn worth of property, making it the equivalent of a top 10 mortgage lender; the average amount of money provided is set to rise to £21,600.

inheritance boom. The new inheritance tax housing allowance will also be fully implemented in 2020, meaning that as much as £500,000 per person will be able to be passed on without incurring tax, allowing millennials whose parents own valuable homes to cut their average tax burden in half.

So if you’re reading this and are 50 plus with older children then you probably know what we mean. Inheritance and housing are hot topics whatever your age.

The report found that inheritances will double in size over the next twenty years, peaking in 2035, as baby boomers who generally have high levels of wealth move through old age. Additionally, nearly two thirds of millennials have parents who are property owners, of which they may receive a share in the future.

However, the inheritance boom will not be a ‘silver bullet’ which allows

millennials to get on the property ladder or address the wealth gaps which are currently growing in society, as most will only benefit from their inheritance when they themselves are nearing pension age. The average age at which people lose both parents is getting later; people who are currently between 25 and 35 are expected to be 61 years old when this happens.

Another key finding of the report was the strong correlation between the property wealth of millennials and the amount they are set to inherit from their parents, with those who were able to get on the property ladder during their early 20s, destined to benefit the most from the

In comparison, those millennials who do not own their own home by their mid thirties are much less likely to receive a large inheritance from their parents.

Additionally, if they inherit this when in their 60s, they’ll then be much less likely to be able to secure a mortgage, meaning that some may struggle to climb onto the property ladder throughout both their working and retired lives.

“It is always prudent to start planning at an early age and not just rely on the bank of mum and dad or look to an inheritance,” said Financial Partner Richard Eastwood.

“I have clients nearing retirement wanting to sort out their futures, as well as increasingly more clients in their 20’s who are making plans for retirement and inheritance tax provision.”

For advice on your inheritance and financial planning prospects contact Richard Eastwood on 0171 785 3500

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A NEW Year is an excellent time to reassess your life and think of ways to improve it.

And for tips on establishing a healthy diet even if you don’t want to lose weight, the NHS can help at http:// www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Goodfood/ Pages/what-is-a-Mediterranean-diet. aspx Improving your fitness will also improve your health – and get you meeting more people socially. You can do this in several ways but joining a GYM is always a popular method to kickstart your fitness routine.

Many local authorities have their own well-equipped gyms in health centres and there may be concessions on offer, especially for older people keen to keep fit.

There is a wealth of private gyms and health organisations in every area and it’s worth examining their membership fees to get the right one for you.

Some combine gym memberships with racquet sports’ memberships or may offer an all-in price.

One element that always springs to mind is your HEALTH and FITNESS and now we are into 2018 you may decide that this is the year to improve both.

There is now much better understanding of the link between too much alcohol and a range of cancers as well as liver disease, strokes and heart problems.

For instance, you may decide that you will definitely stop smoking to aid your health. This is a great plan and it’s worth keeping in mind that your GP can help you quit.

And if you have vowed to lose at least a stone in weight this year, there is also plenty of help around to achieve this.

The NHS has a simple weight-loss plan you can download from http://www.nhs. uk/Livewell/weight-loss-guide/Pages/ losing-weight-getting-started.aspx It has already been downloaded four million times so it’s obviously working well!

He or she can enrol you in a stop smoking clinic and prescribe nicotine replacement therapy like patches and gum or stop smoking medication like Champix.

Most areas also have a dedicated stop smoking service to help you. Go to the NHS Smokefree website at https://www. nhs.uk/smokefree or call the Smokefree National Helpline on 0300 123 1044 if you are tempted to have a cigarette and want help not lighting up.

Or, try e-cigarettes as an alternative.

They allow you to inhale nicotine through a vapour rather than smoke which gives you much lower levels of nicotine.

You may want to cut down on your alcohol consumption this year. We all know that regularly drinking more than 14 units of alcohol a week can be a risk to our health. This is the equivalent of six pints of average-strength beer or 10 small glasses of low-strength wine.

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This promotes safe and sustainable weight-loss, helps you learn to make healthier food choices and offers support from an online community. There is also a weekly progress chart, exercise plans to help with weight-loss and advice on learning skills to prevent putting weight back on again.

If you prefer to attend a weekly group in person, commercial groups like WeightWatchers UK and Slimming World have helped thousands of people in the UK to lose weight. Go to https:// www.weightwatchers.com/uk/ to find out more about local groups or http://www.slimmingworld.co.uk/ Both organisations also have online membership if you prefer it.

You don’t have to invest in lots of costly new sports gear to start. A good, suitable pair of trainers is probably worth paying for, then a t-shirt and shorts or tracksuit bottoms are fine.

You might prefer to take up a new SPORT like badminton, tennis or swimming – all of which offer excellent all-round fitness. You could play with friends at local authority badminton or tennis courts or join a club.

Find one near you at http://www. badmintonengland.co.uk and for tennis go to https://www.lta.org.uk/ Swimming clubs tend to be based at local public pools so why not inquire there or about open sessions?

You don’t have to spend money to get fit, either. The NHS has a very effective system called Couch to 5k which introduces anyone to running as a complete beginner. You can download all the details at http://www.nhs.uk/ LiveWell/Pages/Livewellhub.aspx Or you might prefer just walking.

Many local authorities have organised walks so take a look at what your local council is doing. National organisation the Ramblers – formerly known as The Ramblers Association - arranges walks so for your nearest walking group go to http://www.ramblers.org.uk/ or generally try http://www.walking-uk. com/walkinggroups.htm

Getting Financially Organised in 2018

BY ERIC MOWINSKI OF LANDMARK FINANCIAL PLANNING What is involved in the planning process?

financial products and time pressures mean that financial planning works its way down the priority list.

The steps are as follows:

Why should you want to spend time planning?

Eric Mowinski Eating and drinking less and starting a gym membership may all have been on your New Year’s resolution list, but how about getting financially organised?

For many people the holiday period provides a time for reflection to consider their current financial status and longer term plans. In the current climate this is more important than ever.

Experience tells me that for many people dealing with financial matters is a task that is put off for as long as possible. Today’s world of complex

1. Determine your short and long term financial and lifestyle aims.

I think the two most important benefits are psychological: a feeling of being in control and creating a purpose for your long term aims. Being in control takes the stress out of many situations in regard to investing or spending money, and measuring your financial progress means you have more focus on how your money is working for you.

2. Analyse your existing investments and patterns of income and expenditure.

3. Formulate a financial strategy that will allow you to meet your aims.

4. Implement the strategy.

Creating a financial plan for the year has lots of advantages as it can help you achieve your lifestyle and financial outcomes.

5. Review aims and progress of your investments to take into account changing personal and legislative circumstances.

It also helps you keep up to date with current tax legislation and planning opportunities for changes in regulations and keeps your retirement plans on track.

Follow these rules and you will be moving to financial independence.

Have a great 2018!

Creating a financial plan that works for you At Landmark we are focused on delivering exceptional value to our clients.

Our philosophy is perhaps best summed up by our statement of purpose.

"We help clients make informed decisions about their money through our financial planning and investment management expertise. We give people the financial confidence to enjoy life, reassured by our personal approach and the attentive care we take over managing their financial well-being."

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HOME Pinterest and then just go ahead and try it, it may well not work out,” she states.

“Leave it to the professionals.”

However, there are many areas in the home you can tackle for yourself that will transform your rooms and enhance daily living.

A new FRONT DOOR can make a major difference to your home. It’s not only an important part of the outside look of your property but is also the welcoming gateway to your home.

A fresh coat of paint might suffice to fresh up your door but it may be worth investing in a new one, especially one with glass to allow in more light.

Consult a local supplier with a good reputation and get advice on what will work in your home.

Simple ways to update your Home WHEN it comes to updating your home and changing the décor and furnishings we tend to view it as stepping into a major minefield.

How can we alter our rooms without spending a fortune? What are the latest design trends and will they be suitable for our house or apartment? How can I really bring a fresh look to rooms easily and without major disruption?

At this point, it’s worth taking a deep breath and doing some research. It’s also important to ensure that any new look to your home is something that you’re going to be happy with every single day.

“Don’t panic!” is the advice from interior design consultant Vicky Callan.

She regularly deals with people revamping rooms – and sometimes fixing mistakes they have made – and suggests a cool head when it comes to making changes at home.

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First of all, Vicky points to mistakes that people often make when they upgrade rooms and change furniture, furnishings and décor. “One of the most common is not measuring items of furniture, TVs, beds and especially sofas,” she states.

“People also buy for how these items look and if they’re on trend and don’t think about whether they will suit their purpose and fit in with their lifestyle."

“You wouldn’t buy a cream carpet if you had four children, two dogs and lived on a farm, or a large corner sofa and lived in a tiny high-rise apartment, would you?”

Another mistake is painting a wall in a colour you have seen in a magazine or on TV “and realising it looks totally different in your own home and doesn’t work with the lighting or wall texture.”

Vicky also warns against taking on complex DIY projects, thinking that you’re an expert. “If you see something like creating shelves on TV, Facebook or

HALLWAYS can soon become dark places unless you work to maximise every bit of light. So, opt for very light wallpaper or paint and use mirrors to open up even the most cramped hall.

In a small hall, try to avoid cluttering it up with too much furniture. Go for wall hooks rather than a hallstand and a built-in cupboard for shoes and wellies rather than a freestanding one. Ditch old carpets and choose something fresh and practical like a wood or smart vinyl flooring. You’ll be surprised at the designs and colours available in the latest floor coverings so it’s worth consulting a local flooring expert.

Be objective about your LOUNGE or living-room. This is somewhere you will probably use a large part of the time so you want it to look and be comfortable and inviting.You may want to upgrade furniture or invest in a new suite. Vicky suggests keeping colours light and airy “but add a contrast colour to occasional furniture with pictures and cushions.”

Use the room’s features to their best advantage. “If you have a bay window, for example, make the most of it and use it as a feature, moving curtains back into the wall, letting more light in. Floor to ceiling curtains will give the room height,” adds Vicky.

change your headboard. “One of my favourite modern additions to any bedroom is an upholstered headboard,” insists Vicky. “It’s just the go-to piece.” Change bedside lamps and add a feature light – “a chandelier is perfect,” she add. “And re-position your bed if you can and make a new feature wall with wallpaper.”

And now spring is here and the days get longer property maintenance tends to be foremost in people’s minds, with lighter mornings and evenings any failed double glazed units (Misty Glass) become more obvious.

Cushions and throws in different textures “keep things interesting,” she says, “and mirrors will reflect light into the room and give the illusion of space.”

If you want to be bang up-to-date with your décor, Vicky states that a bright, refreshing green called Greenery is the 2017 Pantone Colour of the Year. The industrial look is also still on trend.

“Mixing patterns in fabrics like patchwork effects for cushions and bed throws is also very popular, along with lots of designs with butterflies.”

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Texture is important in fabrics for sofas and also textured rugs. Made-to-order furniture and lighting are also now much more accessible through independent businesses for homeowners to find and commission.

KITCHENS can gain a brighter look with painted walls or by investing in new items like a kettle or storage jars. Continue a new colour scheme with a piece of suitable artwork on the wall and new floor covering in something durable but attractive.

If you can’t afford a new kitchen currently, why not change doors on your units or opt for new work surfaces? It’s surprising what a big difference that can make to a kitchen.

Treat yourself to professionally measured and made curtains or blinds here, and make the window into a real feature.

The current trend for BATHROOMS is still to go for pristine white suites. But you can add your signature touches through tiles or painting doors or walls in a clean, sharp shade.

Take this new colour through into towels and even clever ornaments, strategically placed. Investing in a new mirror will also give your bathroom a fresh and appealing look.

We spend a large part of our lives in our BEDROOMS so it’s definitely worth getting everything just right here.

Vicky advises buying new sheets as “what you use to cover your bed will set the room. Keep it simple – go for fresh white or cream sheets and up-to-date cushions or even

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FOOD & DRINK

JAMES MARTIN'S SLOW COOKING PORK AND ARMAGNAC TERRINE This dish is a must for me, as my family were pig farmers, and it’s from them that I got a real taste for pork. It’s just so simple, and uses all the best parts of the pig. The recipe comes from a château kitchen in the south of France, where I was inspired by its pure, simple flavours.

There’s no need to be put off by making a terrine – it’s very simple, and it’s actually the dish it is cooked in (the terrine) that makes it easy for us. Serve it with pickles, chutney or gherkins and some crusty bread and butter.

Serves 10–12 INGREDIENTS 300g pork liver 900g pork mince 120ml good white wine 6 tbsp Armagnac 16 thin back bacon rashers 2 eggs 100ml double cream 1 tsp sea salt 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper A good pinch of nutmeg 3 fresh thyme sprigs

First, the meat needs to marinate for 24 hours before cooking.

Cut the pork liver into dice, place in a food processor and process to a purée. Combine with the pork mince in a large bowl, pour over the wine and Armagnac, mix well, cover with clingfilm and place in the fridge overnight.

Preheat the oven to 140°C/275°F/Gas Mark 1. Line the sides and the base of a 30 x 11cm terrine with the bacon, allowing it to hang over the sides.

To make the filling, whisk the eggs and the cream in a bowl and slowly pour onto the marinated pork meat mixture, then add the salt, pepper and nutmeg. Pack the mixture into the

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terrine and press it down as you do so, with either a spoon or a spatula.

Once the terrine is full, place the thyme on the top and fold the bacon over it, then cover with a lid or a piece of foil. Place the terrine into a deep baking tray and half-fill the tray with hot water, then cook in the oven for 1½ hours, or, if you have a thermometer probe, until the centre reaches 70°C/160°F. Leave the terrine to cool completely before putting it in the fridge to chill and set. Turn it out to serve.

SPICED RED LENTIL SOUP I’ve worked with many Indian chefs during my career, and I’ve managed to learn a lot about their food, but that’s just a drop in the ocean when you think of what’s out there. This was one of the soups we used to serve as a pre-starter for customers in the restaurant.

Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 200g red lentils 1 tsp ground turmeric 2 tsp salt 2 dried red chillies 1 tsp coriander seeds ½ tsp cumin seeds ½ tsp fenugreek seeds ½ tsp black peppercorns 4 tbsp vegetable oil

Place the lentils in a large saucepan with 2 litres water, turmeric and salt. Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat, break the dried chillies into pieces and add to the pan with the coriander, cumin and fenugreek seeds and black peppercorns. Toast for 20 seconds, stirring constantly. Remove and place in a pestle and mortar or spice grinder, then grind to a powder.

Finely chop the onion and garlic. Return the pan to the heat, add 2 tablespoons of the vegetable oil, the onion and garlic, and cook gently for 10 minutes, until softened.

Roughly chop the tomatoes. Add the spice mixture, onions and tomatoes to the lentils and bring to a simmer. Skim off and discard any scum, then cook for 1 hour over a very low heat, stirring occasionally.

Shortly before serving, slice the fresh chilli. Heat another frying pan until very hot and add the remaining vegetable oil. When the oil is smoking, add the mustard seeds, fresh chilli and curry leaves, then quickly remove from the heat. Finely chop the coriander. Remove any last residue of scum from the soup, then transfer it to a blender in batches and process until smooth.

1 onion 3 garlic cloves 4 tomatoes 1 tsp mustard seeds 1 fresh red chilli 6 curry leaves 4 tbsp fresh coriander leaves 4 tbsp Greek yoghurt sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

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Return it to the pan to heat through and add the tempered spices and coriander. Season with salt and pepper. Ladle into serving bowls and finish with a spoonful of yoghurt. Serve immediately.

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FOOD & DRINK

BRAISED HALIBUT WITH CHICKPEAS AND CHORIZO Spain has some of the best ingredients in the world. Of all the amazing produce you can find in the markets there, the pork products have to be the best of the bunch.

Chorizo sausage is made from pork, salt and pimentón peppers, which give it a fantastic smoky flavour and rich colour. Look out for the picante (spicy) version, and try to buy soft cooking chorizo, rather than the drycured version, which is better for slicing.

Serves 4 ingredients 250g cooking chorizo 2 banana shallots 2 garlic cloves 2 fresh thyme sprigs 6 tomatoes 400g tinned chick peas, drained and rinsed 200ml white wine 500ml chicken stock 4 x 200g thick fillets halibut on the bone 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preheat the oven to 170°C/325°F/Gas mark 3.

Slice the chorizo, thinly slice the shallots and crush the garlic cloves. Heat a flameproof casserole dish until medium hot, then add the chorizo and fry for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil is released. Meanwhile, roughly chop the tomatoes. Add the shallots, garlic, thyme and tomatoes cook for a further 3–4 minutes.

halibut on top of the chick peas. Cover again and return to the oven for a further 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and leave to rest for 5 minutes before removing the lid. Roughly chop the parsley.

Carefully lift out the fish using a fish slice and place on a serving dish. Stir the parsley into the chick peas, season with salt and pepper, and serve them alongside the fish.

Add the chick peas and stir well, then add the white wine and chicken stock and bring to the boil. Cover with the lid and bake in the oven for 1 hour, then remove and place the

Slow Cooking by James Martin (Quadrille, £12.99) Photography © Tara Fisher

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Tomato Lycopene and Prostate Health

By Prof T G Truscott (Keele University) and Prof Fritz Boehm (Medical Consultant, Berlin)

As men get older the risk of prostate diseases, from prostate enlargement to aggressive prostate cancer, increases. While enlargement is common in men aged over 50, the risk of getting prostate cancer is no more for such men than it is without this problem.

The main prostate disease, which DOES concern older men, is prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with near 1000 new cases diagnosed every week – it can develop slowly. If you have a close male relative, such as your father or brother, with prostate cancer you are at a higher risk. This means if you have this disease your son(s) are also at a higher risk, especially so if another male relative has the disease.

One of the most common tests for prostate cancer is a blood PSA test (Protein-Specific Antigen) - while this test can sometimes be unreliable (a high PSA level may not be due to cancer) it can be useful in detecting early prostate cancer.

Lycopene and Prostate Cancer

Another trial comes from America - Omer Kucuk (Oncology Professor, Detroit) studied men with existing prostate cancer who were to have radical prostatectomy. The trial results, (published in The American Institute of Cancer Research) led Professor Kucuk to report: “Lycopene from tomato extract may not only prevent prostate cancer but may also be useful to treat prostate cancer”.

As well as these and other promising results for men with established prostate disease, what about those currently free of the disease but possibly at higher risk? Here, we believe the results of a large trial from the USA are important.

Professor Edward Giovannucci, (Harvard Medical School), has followed 50,000 men, investigating the relationship between the incidence of prostate cancer and lycopene intake. In a recent paper (published in ‘The Journal of National Cancer Institute’ - Oxford University Press), he concluded: “Dietary intake of lycopene was associated with reduced risk of prostate cancer, especially lethal prostate cancer”.

Lycopene is the red colour in tomatoes - it is known to accumulate in the prostate and there is evidence that lycopene can help those with established disease as well as those at a higher risk.

A trial at Kings College Hospital, London, used Lycoplus (10mg Lycopene per day). All the men on this 1 year trial had established prostate cancer, an average age of 70, average PSA 23ng/ml and they were monitored during and at the end of the trial.

The trial results (published in the journal Prostate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases) showed that 70% of those on the trial had a significant reduction in the PSA rate or a PSA reduction. The urologists running the trial reported ‘‘Our clinical study lends weight to the probability that dietary supplementation from Lycopene [from Lycoplus] slows disease progression in men with prostate cancer”.

The reason why only 7 out of 10 men showed an improvement and 3 showed no improvement is not explained in this work. We believe some men are unable to take up sufficient lycopene and so a higher dose may have increased the number who would have benefited. This is why we have increased to dose of bio-available lycopene in Lycoplus capsules, since this trial, from 10mg to 15mg/capsule.

Nigel Johnson BBC Radio Stoke Football Commentator says:

“Tomato feast may keep prostate tumours away”

“Tomato pills that could fight prostate cancer”

The Times

Daily Mail (online)

“Tomato pill to save your life - a cancer-fighting extract found in tomatoes”

“Lycopene’s effect on preventing cancer of the prostate is near miraculous”

Daily Telegraph

The Times

While the trials so far indicate the benefits of tomato lycopene for those men with established prostate cancer, more extensive trials would be worthwhile.

However, many men are not waiting but are taking bio-available lycopene, such as Lycoplus, to reduce the risk of prostate disease and, we believe, mitigating the disease if it is already present.

What our customers say: We get many letters, emails and phone calls telling us of the success of Lycoplus. Often these tell us of a rising PSA value being stabilised or sometimes actually falling. Typically, recently a new customer from South Wales has told us his PSA has fallen 25% after only 12 weeks of taking Lycoplus.

Stay Informed: To order or for a free newsletter please call 08000 234 235 or visit www.lycoplus.co.uk

“I take Lycoplus every day to reduce prostate problems and maintain my good health.”

Natural Lycopene

What the papers say:

Supplement

Each lycoplus one-a-day capsule contains 15mg of natural lycopene plus 60mg of Vitamin C and 10 mg of vitamin E. These enhance the effect of the lycopene supplement.

One box of 30 capsules (one month’s supply) £17.95 Save

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£130.00

2 boxes

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

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£1999

low cost funeral specialists

Includes: Hearse, Limousine, Coffin, All fees, All Disbursements.

Any Crematorium No Hidden Extras

Prepayment Plans

are available starting from less than £1 per day or interest free for £98 per month over 24 month

The passing of a loved one is a challenging and difficult time.

ALSO AVAILABLE Low cost Burials Call for pricing

We believe these challenges should remain emotional, not financial It’s a call we hope you never have to make but in the sad event of a loved ones passing we are here to help you at anytime We cover any North West Crematorium

0161 343 7230

Office Tel: Email: help@tafc.info www.theaffordablefuneralcompany.com

24 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

0161 768 0767 (24hrs)

Family & & Divorce Divorce Family

Divorce and separation can be a stressful and traumatic time for all parties and it’s Divorce and separation can be a stressful and traumatic time for all parties and it’s Divorce andtoseparation stressful and time for all approach parties and reassuring know thatcan herebeata Bromleys you’lltraumatic find a sympathetic to it’s the reassuring to know that here at Bromleys you’ll find a sympathetic approach to the reassuring to know that here at Bromleys you’ll find a sympathetic approach to the break-up of your relationship or marriage. break-up of your relationship or marriage. break-up of your relationship or marriage.

Our experts can help you take the difficult step of starting divorce proceedings or advise Our experts can help you take the difficult step of starting divorce proceedings or advise Our canspouse help you the proceedings difficult stepagainst of starting divorce proceedings or advise you experts when your hastake issued you already. you when your spouse has issued proceedings against you already. you when your spouse has issued proceedings against you already.

We can advise you on all aspects of the divorce procedure, obtaining a Decree Absolute, We can advise you on all aspects of the divorce procedure, obtaining a Decree Absolute, We advise all aspects of theincluding divorce procedure, a Decree Absolute, andcan deal with you all on financial aspects, what is toobtaining happen to the matrimonial and deal with all financial aspects, including what is to happen to the matrimonial and deal with all aspects, including what is to happen to the matrimonial home, children andfinancial family finances. home, children and family finances. home, children and family finances.

To find out more about our free legal surgeries and appointments contact us on: To find out more about our free legal surgeries and appointments contact us on: To find out more about our free legal surgeries and appointments contact us on:

0161 330 330 6821 6821 0161 0161 330 6821

Visit www.bromleys.co.uk to to find find out out about about our our services services Visit Visit www.bromleys.co.uk www.bromleys.co.uk to find out about our services and how Bromleys Bromleys can help. help. and and how how Bromleys can can help.

Bromleys Solicitors LLP - Clear, concise legal advice Bromleys Solicitors LLP - Clear, concise legal advice Bromleys Solicitors LLP - Clear, concise legal advice T: 0161 330 6821 E: bromleys@bromleys.co.uk W: www.bromleys.co.uk T: 0161 330 6821 E: bromleys@bromleys.co.uk W: www.bromleys.co.uk T: 330 6821 E:Ashton-under-Lyne, bromleys@bromleys.co.uk A:0161 50 Wellington Road, OL6 6XL W: www.bromleys.co.uk A: 50 Wellington Road, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 6XL A: 50 Wellington Road, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 6XL

Bromleys Solicitors LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority Bromleys Solicitors LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority Bromleys Solicitors LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority

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| 25

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT BROADSTONE MILL SHOPPING OUTLET Previously, BMSO has been described as a “Pandora’s Box” by visitors and as a “Great Destination and Day Out”, there is definitely plenty to see and do.

Broadstone Mill Shopping Outlet is set in a large brick built mill in Stockport, which was once the largest cotton mill in Europe and is now the largest Mill Outlet in the Manchester area.

There are thousands of products all under one roof, with 100’s of brands and massive reductions throughout the store and up to 75% OFF the RRP! *Hundreds of FREE parking spaces *Great Places to Eat – Café Moda and The Terrace Tea Room *Customer Lift *Groups and Coach Parties catered for *Loyalty Card Schemes *Open 7 days a week *Top brands at low prices

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The extensive Ladieswear Department on the Upper Ground Floor has a fantastic selection from Casual to Formal and Occasion Wear including brands such as Klass, Roman, Florentyna Dawn and Tigi. In Menswear you will find Lambretta, Skopes, Farah and Regatta.

Our very large Shoe Department has a huge choice of quality footwear with shoes, sandals and boots from leading brands such as Rieker, Hotter and Van Dal. We have a magnificent Homeware Department, with everything from bedding and curtains to cushions, towels and kitchen accessories, crockery and utensils, and our NEW look Gift Department includes favourites such as Yankee Candle, Wax Lyrical and Woods Gifts. If you are looking for a handbag then you will be amazed at the variety and choice, there is a great selection

of Radley and Kipling bags too! You can also visit The Works where you will find something for the whole family, best sellers, children’s books, and a large selection of puzzles and stationary as well as art equipment and more.

Enjoy a break from your shopping and call into our newly refurbished Cafe Moda or visit The Terrace Tearoom on our Upper Ground Floor – each has its own delicious menus for you to choose from. Whether it’s Breakfast, Morning Coffee, Lunch or Afternoon Tea you won’t be disappointed.

Shop in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere where helpful staff are on hand to give advice or help, we look forward to welcoming you to Broadstone Mill Shopping Outlet.

The mill is easy to find and we are close to the motorway networks and easily accessible by a number of bus routes. We are not far from the A6 and are situated between Stockport Town Centre and Manchester City Centre.

www.broadstonemillshoppingoutlet.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

Out & About A guide to the amazing events around the region for 2018

Nordic walking is commonly mistaken for trekking or rambling, but just because you use 2 poles doesn’t mean you’re Nordic walking.

Also, with Nordic walking you’re attached to your pole, rather than just using a wrist strap. Poles are planted behind you to propel yourself along, & you feel lighter on your feet.

Nordic walking is unique in that it provides benefits for everyone from the super fit to those with medical problems. Whatever age, fitness level or goal, Nordic walking is a suitable, effective & enjoyable activity. Some people do it for weight loss & health benefits, and others just for the social aspect.

Benefits: l l l l

l l l l

Friday 16 March – Sat 7 April

Oldham Coliseum Theatre, Hull Truck Theatre and New Vic Theatre present a Pallas Players’ production of Whisky Galore Let the all-female Pallas Players take you to the Scottish islands of Great Todday and Little Todday in 1943. The whisky supply is dwindling as the government diverts the precious stuff to the Americans and tensions are running high!

Relief seems to be at hand when a 50,000 bottle cargo shipwrecks close by, until stuffy Paul Waggot takes it upon himself to prevent them taking advantage of their good fortune.

WThis new adaptation is a tribute to the feisty, fearless all-female touring companies of the post-war years.

Witness the Pallas Players as they play all the hilarious characters from Compton Mackenzie’s tale in an innovative and beguiling play that breathes fresh life into a well-loved masterpiece.

Oldham Coliseum Fairbottom Street, Oldham, OL1 3SW Tel: 0161 624 2829 coliseum.org.uk

Tones upper & lower body at the same time Uses 90% of major muscles Burns up to 46% more calories than ordinary walking Poles help reduce pressure on knees & joints, & Nordic walking is also great for neck, back & shoulder problems Great cardio workout without much effort Don’t need specialist clothing Exercising outdoors, which boosts mood & well-being You can Nordic walk anywhere, and it’s easy to learn.

To get the full benefit you need to learn the correct technique.

Nordic Walking Tameside (NeWTs) offers free 45min taster sessions every week, or you can book onto a Learn To Nordic Walk course. Once completed, you are able to walk with any other Nordic Walking UK (NWUK) instructor in the country (approx.

5000).

NeWTs have regular walks across Tameside, and once a month we have a special walk which is either longer than normal or further afield. We also walk with other NWUK groups, and have a joint walk with Stockport Nordic Walking planned and a trip to the North Norfolk Coast in July to walk with Norfolk Nordic Walking.

Regular walks are Sunday mornings at Daisy Nook Countryside Centre & Thursday evenings in Stalybridge, with more walks being added to the calendar in the coming months. Please visit www.NordicWalkingTameside.co.uk or call Jane (07847 786 939) for more information or to book onto a Taster session.

Come & Try Nordic Walking Nordic Walking Tameside is a fun, sociable group, made up of all ages, abilities and fitness levels. Taster sessions & Learn to Nordic Walk courses year round (1-to-1 tuition on request) Regular walks across the borough

Friday 23rd March at 8.00pm

MADE IN MOTOWN ‘Made In Motown’ aim to recreate the classic music and sounds of Detroit during the 1960’s. The band comprises high quality experienced musicians dedicated to recreating authentically the ‘Sounds Of The Motor City’, fronted by the incredible talents of the bands three female vocalists. If you’re a fan of Martha Reeves, the temptations, Supremes, the four tops, Marvin Gaye, and many more Motown legends, then this is a show not to be missed. Sit back and enjoy the songs that were ‘Made In Motown’.

Playhouse 2, 2 Newtown St, Shaw, Oldham OL2 8NX Tel: 01706 840400

l

Burns 46% more calories than ordinary walking 90% of your major muscles l Great for neck, shoulder and back problems l Suitable for all levels of ability, fitness and ages l Sociable, safe outdoor exercise l Easy on the knees and joints l Uses

Contact Jane now: nwtameside@gmail.com 07847 786 939 www.NordicWalkingTameside.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT Saturday 24th March at 8.00pm

Collectors Fair, offering up to 80 stalls and a huge variety of antiques and collectables.

KIKI DEE and CARMELO LUGGERI For almost two decades, Kiki and Carmelo have been touring their spellbinding acoustic live show across the UK and Europe. Performing in this stripped back fashion allows each of their exceptional talents to shine through and create a wonderful and warm sense of intimacy for the audience.

Playhouse 2, 2 Newtown St, Shaw, Oldham OL2 8NX Tel: 01706 840400 Easter Sunday 1 April

Easter Egg Hunt An egg – stravaganza for younger children. As well as the hunt there will be competitions for best dressed Easter egg and bonnet.

The Edgeley Park Stadium, Antique & Collectors Fair, Edgeley Park Stadium, Hardcastle Road, Stockport, Cheshire SK3 9DD Wednesday 4 April

Go Wild in Spring A chance for the whole family to get outdoors and ‘Go wild’. You can try a bit of den building, have a go at bug hunting and see what secret life lurks beneath the waters of the pond.

1pm – 3pm @ the car park, bottom of Meadow Lane, Haughton Green, Denton. M34 7QA

of the most popular and enduring film series of all-time 2 Fast 2 Furious will come to life at Manchester Arena from Friday 13- Sunday 15 April for this ground-breaking live-arena tour. The adrenaline-fueled, two-hour show is set to be the most spectacular live arena production ever produced.

Fans will be transported straight into this immersive extension of the Fast & Furious movies. Tickets are on sale now, priced from £35.00 (booking and facility fees apply).

Manchester Arena, Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester M3 1AR https://www.manchester-arena.com/ events/

1pm - 3pm @ Lower Higham Visitor Centre.

Higham Lane Gee Cross, Hyde. SK14 5LR 1 Apr 2018 - 09:00 - 15:30

The Edgeley Park Stadium Antiques & Collectors Fair Shepherd & Williams present The Edgeley Park Stadium Antique and

Fri 13, Sat 14 & Sun 15 April

Thurs 19, Fri 20 & Sat 21 April

Fast and Furious Live

Michael McIntyre

The action and excitement from one

Britain’s biggest comedian Michael McIntyre, the global phenomenon,

Alan Ayckbourn’s first play and West End hit Shelagh Delaney’s famous Salford story Sponsored by

Friday 20 April - Saturday 5 May

Friday 25 May - Saturday 9 June

0161 624 2829 coliseum.org.uk

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brings his Big World Tour to Manchester Arena. Michael McIntyre will be performing 3 dates in April. Tickets for the Thursday 19th April, Friday 20 April & Saturday 21 April shows are on sale now, priced from £25.00 (booking & venue facility fees apply).

Lots of mostly free entertainment; face painting, craft workshops, climbing wall, music, sports activities, stalls and street theatre amidst a carpet of spring flowers.

Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester M3 1AR https://www.manchester-arena.com/ events/

29 April

Friday 20th April to Saturday 5th May

RELATIVELY SPEAKING A brand new version of Ayckbourn’s first play and West End hit, which launched him to fame, establishing him as one of the UK’s most performed playwrights. This comedy of misunderstanding involves two couples, one young and co-habiting and one older, married and fraught.

12noon - 4pm @ Stamford Park, Stalybridge, SK15 1NJ

Patti Boulaye: Billie & Me

THE NORTH WEST’S

Patti Boulaye showcases her one woman jazz show featuring the music of Billie Holiday.

Saddleworth Live MILLGATE ARTS CENTRE Stoneswood Road, Delph, Saddleworth OL3 5DY Box Office (at Delph Library): 01457 874644

....

Bolton’s Award Winning Market Bolton market has over 200 stalls including a bustling food court serving food from all over the world, cafés complement our food offer, and we even have a licensed bar.

Oldham Coliseum Fairbottom Street, Oldham, OL1 3SW http://www.manchestertheatres.com/ coliseum.htm 21 and 22 April

The Man On The Moor Hit new play dealing with the mystery and aftermath of the recent discovery of a man's body on Saddleworth Moor.

Inspired by true events.

Saturday 5th May

Saddleworth Live, MILLGATE ARTS CENTRE, Stoneswood Road, Delph, Saddleworth OL3 5DY Box Office (at Delph Library): 01457 874644

Ken Dodd's incredible and hugely successful career as a professional entertainer now spans over 60 fun-filled years and has been recognised with the Knighthood bestowed upon him in the 2017 New Year's Honours list.

Sunday 22 April

The Plaza, Mersey Square Stockport SK1 1SP Box Office: 0161 477 7779 boxoffice@stockportplaza.co.uk

Spring in your step Explore the Tame Valley to see whether spring has sprung. Bluebells just flowering, vibrant green leaves and the first songbirds will all be there for your enjoyment on this six mile walk.

11am-3pm @Hyde Central Station car park, Great Norbury Street, Hyde, SK14 1BW Sunday 29 April

Chadkirk Chapel Ramble A 10 mile walk across wild, windswept Werneth Low to the historic delights of Chadkirk Chapel and back via Etherow Country Park.

10am – 3.30pm @ Lower Higham Visitor Centre. Higham Lane Gee Cross, Hyde. SK14 5LR Sunday 29 April

Spring Family Fun Day Celebrate Spring with a family funday.

THE KEN DODD HAPPINESS SHOW

19 May 2018

Bolton MARTI PELLOW Council

Marti Pellow will tour the UK in 2018 with “The Private Collection Tour”. The tour celebrates 30 years in the industry, including number 1’s and hit singles from his many albums as both a solo artist and with Wet Wet Wet. Manchester Opera House, Quay Street, Manchester. M3 3HP http://www.manchestertheatres.com/ operahouse.htm Sat 26 May

You can buy everything from fresh fish, meat and game, locally sourced and exotic fruit and vegetables with speciality stalls selling deli meats and a huge selection of cheeses, plus there is a whole host of traditional stalls selling everything from furniture to flowers, bedding to broomsticks and much more.

Well worth a visit!

Bolton Market has it all.

Opening Times; Open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday 9am-5pm.

How To Find Us Bolton Market, Ashburner Street, Bolton BL1 1TQ. Contact: 01204 336825 Email: bolton.markets@bolton.gov.uk

Visit our website for a list of special events and activities that we are running at the Market.

www.bolton.gov.uk

Harlem Globetrotters The world famous Harlem Globetrotters, featuring some of the most electrifying athletes on the planet, will bring their spectacular show to Manchester Arena on Saturday 26 May as part of

NABMA

the voice of markets

WINNER BEST FOOD market 2017

“For Bolton’s Food & Drink Festival

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| 29

OUT & ABOUT their World Tour. Tickets are on sale now and priced from £17.50 (booking and facility fees apply).

Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester M3 1AR https://www.manchester-arena.com/ events/ Sunday 17th June

DUSTY & THE SHADES OF THE 60S Dusty & The Shades of the 60s celebrates the life and music of one of the most iconic female artistes of our time, the legendary Dusty Springfield.

The Plaza, Mersey Square Stockport SK1 1SP Box Office: 0161 477 7779 boxoffice@stockportplaza.co.uk Friday 22nd June to Saturday 7th July

BREAD AND ROSES An exciting uplifting new play stuffed full of songs and laughs, heart and soul; telling the gripping real life story of the huge mill-workers strike in Lawrence, Massachusetts, USA in 1912.

Oldham Coliseum, Fairbottom Street, Oldham, OL1 3SW http://www.manchestertheatres.com/ coliseum.htm

Friday 12th October

SIR CLIFF RICHARD With 103 album releases, 123 single hits and the equivalent of 20 years spent in the UK charts, Britain’s ‘Ultimate Pop Star’ Sir Cliff Richard will be celebrating his 60th Anniversary in the music business.

The Bridgewater Hall, Lower Mosley Street, Manchester. M2 3WS. http://www.manchestertheatres.com/ bridgewaterhall.htm Monday 22nd to Saturday 27th October

LET IT BE Come Together and experience the iconic music of The Beatles with Let It Be, the spectacular new concert jampacked with over 40 of The Beatles’ greatest hits! Direct from the West End, this international hit show celebrates the legacy of the world’s greatest rock ‘n’ roll band.

Manchester Opera House, Quay Street, Manchester. M3 3HP http://www.manchestertheatres.com/ operahouse.htm Sunday 4th November

SIMPLY SINATRA A sensational afternoon of music, song and dance celebrating Ol’ Blue Eyes

himself. Matt Ford and Victoria HamiltonBarritt are joined by a fabulous 27-piece show band and ballroom champions Chris and Emma Burrell to perform all of your favourite Sinatra hits.

The Bridgewater Hall, Lower Mosley Street, Manchester. M2 3WS. http://www.manchestertheatres.com/ bridgewaterhall.htm Tuesday 6th November

QUEEN EXTRAVAGANZA A sensational afternoon of music, song and dance celebrating Ol’ Blue Eyes himself. Matt Ford and Victoria HamiltonBarritt are joined by a fabulous 27-piece show band and ballroom champions Chris and Emma Burrell to perform all of your favourite Sinatra hits.

O2 Apollo Theatre, Stockport Road, Ardwick Green, Manchester, M12 6AP http://www.manchestertheatres.com/ apollo.htm

If you have an event and would like it published in the next issue please email your details to admin@mcgrathmedia.co.uk

J. Child & Son Ltd Monumental Masons

4th Generation Independent Family Run Business Established 1899

Help and Advice Freely Given, Home Visits, Detailed Brochure Distinctive Memorials in a Wide Choice of Materials l Style and Ornamentation to Personal Specification l Large Display of Vases and Statues l Inscriptions in any Language l Cleaning and Renovations l Memorial Insurance l Maintenance Contracts l

515 Bury Road ROCHDALE OL11 4DG Tel/Fax 01706 645993

B.R.A.M.M. Registered

446 Blackburn Road ASTLEY BRIDGE BOLTON BL1 8NL Tel/Fax 01204 309189

www.jchildmemorials.co.uk E-mail: jenny@jchildmemorials.co.uk

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E S T. 1 8 8 8

H.REVELL &

S O N S

L T D

A F A M I L Y B U S I N E S S F O R S I X G E N E R AT I O N S Denise and daughter Cassie are the Funeral Directors at H. Revell & Sons, a familyowned and run company based in Stalybridge. The company was formed in 1888 by Denise's great, great grandfather, Edward Hepworth Revell. With Denise's daughter Cassie Roberts now part of the team, this makes it a family business for six generations!

“Over the 128 years we have carved out a reputation as a company that people can trust, and this milestone is an achievement of which we are very proud.”

Although funerals have changed considerably since Victorian times, we believe their traditional values still hold true.

“We were taught to be honest in our dealings with the public and to help them as much as possible in their hour of need. Integrity is everything. Because people are vulnerable when they lose someone, the funeral profession needs to conduct itself honourably. We are bound by a strict code of conduct, as stipulated by our trades association, The National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF)."

The company ethos is to provide a dignified, quality and caring service whilst keeping a competitive edge. “Most of our work comes from repeat business or referrals from our clients. There are families where four or five generations have used our company. Knowing you can turn to someone you know and trust can be a tremendous relief.”

A good Funeral Director needs to be strong, yet sensitive; they need to have excellent organisational skills, be genuinely interested in people and be willing to go that extra mile. With Denise and Cassie's leadership skills we discreetly take control of the situation, relieving the pressure that inevitably accompanies death.

Pre-payment plans for peace of mind “A lot of our clients are now asking about pre-payment plans. With the cost of funerals rising faster than the rate of inflation we are finding people want to freeze the cost by taking out a pre-paid plan. It offers great peace of mind if there are no relatives to make arrangements and if there are relatives, then it takes the burden off them and reduces the stress that comes with losing a loved one.”

If you would like to discuss funeral plans further please give Denise, Cassie or Linny a call.

David was looked after by Denise and we cannot thank her enough for the way she handled everything. Denise and the staff were excellent and made this very difficult time much easier for us. She organised everything for us and rang us daily to check we were ok - a very caring service. Thank you so much.

Lesley & Charly

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Tel/Fax 0161 338 2520

31 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 96 Stamford Street,

| 31 WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK Stalybridge, Cheshire SK15 1LU

It’s important. If you’re aged 60-74 and registered with a GP, the kit arrives by post every 2 years.

The free NHS bowel screening kit is quick and easy to do.

The kit takes a few minutes to complete and could reduce the risk of more serious illness. Then you can just get on with life.

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0800 707 6060 (Call free)

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Call for any advice, or to request a replacement kit.