50 Plus Magazine Preston & Fylde

DECEMBER 2019 - FEBRUARY 2020

PRESTON & FYLDE COAST EDITION 56

James Martin

A MAN OF MANY TALENTS

Reeves Coach Holidays OFFERING QUALITY DOOR-TO-DOOR COACH HOLIDAYS NEW BROCHURE OUT NOW

Steve Howarth's WEEKENDS AWAY

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SCOTTISH HOGMANAY IN PEEBLES

Taking You There with Pride and Care Based at the Peebles Hydro Hotel, set in the heart of the Tweed valley, a tranquil location, 4-star hotel with spa and indoor pool, a fabulous place with truly superb Scottish hospitality.

Includes: Three nights accommodation with full board, Hotel’s Hogmanay entertainment package, use of hotel’s leisure facilities (pool/gym) and Melrose and Peebles excursions.

30 Dec | 4 Days | £439 Single Supplement £75 “Rabbie” Burns Themed Weekend

Reeves Coach Holidays Ltd. All our holidays include a door-to-door service which transfers you from your home* directly to our coach and the same system will operate on the return part of the journey to take you home again. No changing coaches along the route or waiting for feeder coaches. With light refreshments available on board our vehicles at reasonable prices, regular comfort/meal stops made en route, it is our aim to make you feel rested and relaxed throughout your holiday, even whilst travelling to your destination.

On arrival and departure Porterage is provided for our passengers which makes the whole journey as care free and easy as possible.

So why not travel with us? Our holiday prices are final - there are no additional costs, no entrance fees to pay or optional excursions fees to be added and as a local family-run company, if you prefer, you can come and visit us in person to make a booking or enquiry, we’d be happy to see you.

2020 BROCHURE OUT NOW!

Based at the Salutation Hotel, Perth. The Salutation Hotel is one of Scotland’s most historic hotels.

Situated in the heart of the historic City of Perth.

Includes: Three nights half-board accommodation with, Hotel’s entertainment (two nights).

Excursions and entrances to: Glen Turret Distillery Tour, Crief Visitors Centre with light-lunch* Discovery Point, Dundee. * A voucher to the value of £7.50 is provided by us.

24 Jan | 4 Days | £319 Single Supplement £57 BEAUTIFUL BOURNEMOUTH BREAK

Quality Coach Holidays Door-to-Door Service Hotel Porterage Excursions included *Door-to-door collections

service please note that restrictions may apply, please check your postcode with our office to ensure you are within our free collection area.

For booking call 01254 830545 or complete the reservation page at www.reevescoachholidays.com

Based at the Riviera Hotel, Bournemouth. This hotel has spectacular wide views of Bournemouth Bay and is just a minute’s walk for the beautiful wooded Alum Chine leading to its delightful Blue Flag sandy beach.

Includes: Four nights half board accommodation. Excursions & entrances to: Salisbury, Swanage, Steam Train Journey, Weymouth, Poole. Hotel’s evening entertainment (3 nights) and hotel’s 99p bar (selected drinks), use of hotel’s leisure facilities.

17 Feb | 5 Days | £316 Single Supplement may apply

REST & RELAXATION IN DEVON

Based at the Babbacombe Hotel, Babbacombe. This hotel in positioned on the flat Babbacombe Downs overlooking the sea, stunning views from the bar and restaurant.

Includes: Four nights half board accommodation with Hotel’s all inclusive package on selected drinks between 8pm and 11pm.

Excursions and entrances to: Buckfast Abbey, Butterfly & Otter Sanctuary. After dinner tea/coffee.

NORTH EAST EXPLORER

Based at the Holiday Inn, Gosforth Park.

The Holiday Inn Hotel, Gosforth Park, Seaton Burn is Set in 18 acres of quiet grounds.

Includes: Four nights half-board accommodation. Welcome arrival tea/coffee. Use of hotel’s leisure facilities (pool/ sauna). Excursions to: Durham, Alnwick Castle, Newcastle, Chares, Bamburgh Castle.

SHROPSHIRE SPLENDOURS

Based at the Buckatree Hall Hotel, Telford. The hotel is a country house hotel set in its own mature gardens and woodland beside a scenic lake.

Includes: Four nights half-board accommodation. Welcome arrival tea/coffee. Excursions and entrances to RAF Museum Cosford, Shrewsbury inc River Severn Cruise, Love Plants inc afternoon cream tea, Ironbridge Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site, Action Scott Historic Working Farm, Ludlow.

INVITATION TO ...

ISLE OF WIGHT

Based at the Bourne Hall Hotel, Shanklin. Bourne Hall is an elegant family run Country House Hotel and restaurant, set in mature grounds, the hotel boasts outdoor heated swimming pool and a leisure complex with jacuzzi/sauna.

Includes: Four nights half board accommodation. Excursions and entrances to: Godshill Village, Alum Bay, Ventnor Botanical Gardens, Osborne House, journey on Isle of Wight Steam Railway.

22 June | 5 Days | £506 Single Supplement £45

02 March | 5 Days | £299 Single Supplement £25

03 May | 5 Days | £421 Single Supplement £104

KEUKENHOF GARDEN, VOLENDAM & AMSTERDAM

A BRIEF ENCOUNTER OF THE LAKES

FAMOUS LOCH CRUISES & DISTILLERIES

HAMPSHIRE STEAM & GIN DISTILLERY

Based at the Cumbria Grand Hotel, Grange-over-Sands. Set in 20 acres of private gardens and woodlands overlooking Morecambe Bay. Includes: Three nights half board accommodation. Arrival tea/ coffee. Excursions and entrances to: Holker Hall & Gardens, Carnforth Station & Heritage Centre, Leighton Hall & Gardens with afternoon tea, Lake Windermere.

Based at the Rob Royal Hotel, Aberfoyle Trossachs. A relaxed and informal hotel in Aberfoyle which has been welcoming groups for many years.

Includes: Four nights half board accommodation. Hotel’s own entertainment (2 nights).

Excursions and entrances to: Boat cruise on Loch Katrine & Loch Lomond, Glengoyne Distillery & The Famous Grouse Experience at Glen Turret.

Based at the Norton Park Hotel, Winchester. A splendid hotel with character and charm set in 54 acres of countryside near the historic city of Winchester.

Includes: Four nights half board accommodation. Excursions and entrances to: Winchester Castle, Great Hall, Bombay Sapphire Distillery, Winchester Cathedral, Watercress Steam Train Journey, Alford, Salisbury, Romsey.

Based at Kontakt der Kontinenten Hotel, Soesterberg.

Return crossings on P&O North Sea Ferries with side-by-side berths and meals on board. Three nights half-board accommodation at the hotel with complimentary tea/coffee in hotel lounge 24/7. Excursions and entrances to: Zaanse Schans & boat ride with tea/coffee, guided tour of Amsterdam, Keukenhof Gardens, Cruise on the Ijsselmeer, steam train ride with coffee/cake.

(Please note Porterage is not available).

02 April | 6 Days | £649 Single Supplement £106

08 May | 4 Days | £375 Single Supplement £57

VINTAGE RAILWAYS OF NORTH WALES

FAMOUS FACES & PLACES, KENT

Based at the Royal Victoria Hotel Snowdonia, Llanberis.

Includes: Four nights half-board accommodation. Complimentary tea/coffee on arrival at the hotel.

Hotel’s inhouse entertainment (3 nights). Excursions and entrances to: Chester, Llandudno, Great Orme Tramway, Snowdon Mountain Railway, Llanberis Lake Railway, Ffestiniog Rail journey, Blaenau Ffestiniog-Porthmadog, Cheshire Oaks. Complimentary glass of wine with dinner on last evening.

Based at the Bridgewood Manor Hotel, Chatham. The hotel is based around an inner courtyard, with an outdoor patio area, swimming pool, small gym, sauna/steam room.

Includes: Four nights half board accommodation. Welcome arrival tea/coffee. Use of leisure facilities.

Excursions and entrances to: Historic Dockyard Chatham, Darwin’s Down House, Chapel Down Winery tour and tasting.

Hever Castle and Gardens.

27 April | 5 Days | £417 Single Supplement please enquire

14 May | 5 Days | £456 Single Supplement may apply

25 May | 5 Days | £428 Single Supplement £91

01 June | 5 Days | £419 Single Supplement TBC

WINE ON THE RHINE

Hotel Lindenwirt, Rudesheim, Rhine Valley.

Includes: Return crossings with side-by-side berths and meals on board. Four nights half board accommodation at the hotel.

Excursions and entrances to: Cable Car & Chair lift ride, River Boat Cruise, Niederwal Monument, Jagdschloss Niederwald, Assmannshausen, Eberbackh Monastery tour & wine tasting, Heidelberg guided tour, Heidelberg Castle tour & wine tasting. Funicular ride.

14 June | 7 Days | £825 Single Supplement £115

28 June | 5 Days | £405 Single Supplement £88 HIGH CLASS MOTORS & GARDENS AT HIGHGROVE

Based at the Cheltenham Chase Hotel, Brockworth. The Cheltenham Chase Hotel offers modern accommodation, a luxurious spa, and a large outdoor garden terrace.

Includes: Four nights half board accommodation. Excursions and entrances to: Morgan Motor Company and tour, Ledbury Heritage Centre, Butchers Row Folk Museum, Tewkesbury Museum & Abbey, Royal Gardens & Highgrove, Painswick.

02 July | 5 Days | £490 Single Supplement may apply

CONTENTS

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE 6-7

TWITTERING ON

By Angela Kelly

8-9 TRAVEL

Steve Howarth's weekends away 12-13

JAMES MARTIN The man of many talents

15-16 GARDEN

New Year, new look 20-22 HOME

Creating a warm and beautiful home this Winter

TRAVEL STEVE HOWARTH'S WEEKENDS AWAY THE WHITE HORSE IN DORKING

HOME

JAMES MARTIN'S

CREATING A WARM AND BEAUTIFUL HOME THIS WINTER

GREATH BRITISH ADVENTURE

24-27

JAMES MARTIN'S Great British Adventure

28-30

WHAT'S ON A guide to what's happening in your region

32-33

QUALITY DENTURES Mean a quality lifestyle

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

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TWITTER

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE

TWITTERING ON

BY ANGELA KELLY

Pity the poor celebrities who suffer vile abuse online IT’S hard being a celebrity these days and not having a very thick skin indeed.

The anonymity of technology, in particular social media, means that everyone out there can pass an opinion about virtually anything.

And they do.

Unfortunately, they don’t do this in a measured or reasonable way usually. No. They go to the extremes of personal comment, even resorting to death threats, if they either don’t like someone, don’t agree with their actions or even their point of view.

Politicians now regularly get vile threats, to themselves and their families, for many of the things they do. These are often the most basic actions you would expect from them, given their principles and party.

The worst abuse appears to be reserved for today’s celebrities and that often means that young men and women who may be the least able to cope with this are on the receiving end.

One typical case is pop band Little Mix’s Jesy Nelson. She is 28 now but right from the first appearance of the four girls on The

6

X Factor in 2011, she has been singled out for specific abuse.

The “problem” is that she has distinctive looks and a womanly figure and this apparently incensed a large number of people who insisted on telling her they thought she was ugly and fat.

One glance at this beautiful young woman reveals she is neither but that doesn’t stop it hurting deep down and doing real damage.

“Don’t look at the comments” you may quite reasonably advise. Well, I know from experience that it’s quite difficult not to be sucked into having a quick look, and then it’s too late.

Jesy became so traumatised by this truly nasty reaction from people she had never met that she tried to kill herself. That’s what online trolls can do: wreck someone’s life.

It wasn’t until she deleted her Twitter account, where the worst abuse was coming from, that her life changed and she slowly started to feel “normal” again.

Although she still has bad days, she could move on. In fact, she made a BBC documentary exploring body image and mental health issues which will no doubt help many other people, both well-known and not.

The craziest thing is that, when the worst of these online trolls finally go too far and end up in court, they mostly turn out to be the saddest, most inadequate individuals you could imagine. It’s a strange world.

Concern that our favourite soaps are losing the plot ARE our TV soaps finally losing their grip on UK viewers’ imaginations?

Writing in the Radio Times, one BBC arts’ critic thinks so and he believes they face a “potentially fatal crisis”.

Mark Lawson believes the recent slump in viewing figures for favourites like EastEnders and Coronation Street highlights a “fundamental creative problem” in which story arcs are becoming “impossible to either write or act.”

He highlights recent plot lines like the siege at the Queen Vic pub in EastEnders when a character was shot dead and historic child sex abuse in Corrie.

Although soaps have always been seen as telly immortals – Coronation Street 59 years, Emmerdale 47 and EastEnders 34 – Mark believes they now face a crisis.

He points out that the “historic strength of the genre has been its strong central female characters”. So logic dictated they should have the strongest storylines and the result was that “these women make the wives of Henry VIII seem relatively lucky.”

He was particularly concerned about the frequency of sex crimes against women although acknowledged that such storylines were useful in highlighting “police and medical responses” and also in offering helplines.

While I think he has a point I do wonder if the problem is that our soaps have just TOO many plot lines going on.

I know times have changed dramatically and life in 2019 is complex and fastmoving. However, early on in the life of Coronation Street, for example, the central story revolved around the disappearance of Minnie Caldwell’s cat and that went on for weeks.

Now, expect any one episode of a soap to have a robbery planned, an affair, an online gambling habit and a hidden sex abuser. It’s like real-life microwaved into 25 minutes for entertainment consumption. This is not only exhausting but very hard to keep up with the plots.

True, the soaps do a great job with strong storylines reflecting modern problems.

The Coronation Street treatment of Aidan’s mental health battle and subsequent suicide were incredibly moving and well-handled and the support offered to the public useful and relevant.

But – and it is a big “but” – we still view our soaps for light relief from life as it is being lived and if all we have is a mirror to “ordinary” life with no relief then they lose their appeal.

Humour was always the soaps’ salvation and that appears to be in very short supply right now. Jack and Vera, where are you when we need you most?

Can we ditch driving children to school and walk?

IT would be easy to write a sad and emotional biography about the journey of a cancer sufferer and her devoted carer.

PARENTS dropping off children close to schools has long been a source of contention – especially for people living near the schools.

Now, a survey by walking and cycling charity Sustrans of 954 parents across England, Scotland and Wales shows that most want traffic-free roads outside schools to protect children from air pollution.

It’s likely that they’re also considering the safety of pupils at risk from so many cars there, too.

Sustrans’ chief executive Xavier Brice points out that the average journey to primary school is 1.6 miles. Walking or cycling to school is a better alternative all round, if that’s possible. For some parents who need to rush off to work for a set time or who travel a distance that could be difficult.

But, we do need to alleviate pollution and road dangers and improve the quality of life for all concerned, including the longsuffering souls living near schools.

However, while We Never Got To Cornwall is undoubtedly a tragic story it is also both uplifting and informative – and that’s what puts this book apart from other similar publications.

The sub-title is The True Story of a Secret Cancer Sufferer (Plus My Own Life Lessons Learnt) and it is much of what happens next that makes this book unusual.

“Redders” is obviously a courageous and inspirational woman who fought a longterm battle with cancer with amazing dignity and bravery. But life – and death – is not just about higher emotions. It is also about humour, despair and anger and a sense of being lost that many people who have suffered the death of a partner, family member or close friend will recognise.

The author, though, as well as recounting the very natural feelings involved has also looked closely at the practical situation of

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And here, the author tackles the thorny subject of death certificates, arranging the funeral, sorting out the will and a dozen other duties.

Then there are all the other ordinary details like changing bank details, services, benefits and everything else we normally take for granted.

The author offers a personal but engaging diary of these, giving useful advice based on experience.

It may be a cathartic book for him to write but it is definitely an interesting and thought-provoking read for the rest of us. * We Never Got To Cornwall, published by Grosvenor House Publishing Ltd at £6.99.

PRINTSALES SALES PRINT

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BO EMBE LTO R 2019N BOLTOEDITION 63 & BURY N & BU RY N 63 AUGUST

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what happens after someone dies, especially if you are in a position of responsibility.

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TRAVEL

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE

Steve Howarth's

WEEKENDS AWAY THE WHITE HORSE IN DORKING

The White Horse at Dorking

T

he Surrey Hills is an area of outstanding natural beauty with lots to see and do… and a perfect base for that short break getaway is the recently refurbished White Horse Hotel in picturesque Dorking.

Just a few miles from the hustle and bustle of London, Dorking is a world away with a relaxed atmosphere, lots of pubs, bars and shops - the perfect place to unwind and explore.

Owners bespoke hotels spent £4 million on the refurbishment and it shows with tasteful yet quirky boutique facilities and accommodation. All the rooms have top quality fixtures and fittings en-suite showers, complimentary water, security safes and high-speed Wi-Fi. And with its concept The Dozen restaurant

We took a weekend break at the historic hotel, which boasts 56 boutique bedrooms alongside a lively restaurant and bar. Housed in an 18th century coaching inn, parts of which date back almost to the Middle Ages, it features unique character and atmospheric charm.

The Dozen Restaurant 8

featuring the finest products and ingredients from the local area the food also leaves guests with a truly lasting impression, thanks to a versatile and locally sourced menu that promotes Dorking’s finest products.

One of the 56 boutique bedrooms After exploring the town centre, including one whole street which is mostly made up of antique shops, we enjoyed a terrific and reasonably priced meal at The Dozen. I tucked into delicious fish and chips while my much better half enjoyed her chicken salad, all washed down with some excellent local beer and a bottle of very acceptable house white.

There’s also lots of history here with Dorking being the home of one of the original Pilgrim Fathers families who set off for the New World on the Mayflower almost 400 years ago. The Mullins’ house on West Street still survives and special events are planned next year to mark four centuries since their historic and epic journey.

Dorking also has a quaint museum for visitors to enjoy and there are historic trails to trod plus local caves to explore.

Following a great night’s sleep in our comfortable and spacious room overlooking the busy High Street, we set out to explore what the Dorking area has to offer. As well as some great walks and cycle trails along the North Downs Way there are historic houses like nearby Polesden Lacey Estate and Gardens, Chartwell and Hampton Court Palace or if it is a trip to top up on your favourite tipple that takes your fancy then the likes of Denbies Wine Estate or GreyFriars Vineyards are recommended.

Also waiting to be explored are areas of natural beauty in the rolling Surrey Hills including Box Hill, Mayfield Lavender and Leith Hill.

We found Dorking and the White Horse to be the perfect place for a relaxing get away from it all short break with lots to see and do and beautiful countryside on your doorstep.

The White horse offers bespoke walking, getaway or wine and dine breaks and for the latest offers check out their website at: www.bespokehotels.com/dorking-white-horse Steve Howarth's short break stay at the White Horse Hotel in Dorking cost £154 per night for 2 sharing a comfy double room with dinner and breakfast.

There are also local breweries which open to the public – all within a short drive are the Dorking Brewery, Crafty Brewing Company and Pilgrim Brewery and if gin is your thing then why not try visiting Silent Pool Gin, The Gin Kitchen or Elstead Village Distillers.

NEW COLLECTIONS ARRIVING DAILY

PARTY WEA R & DRESSES

AVAILABLE IN STORE

Fancy Frocks is a Mother of the Bride/Groom, Wedding Guests, Race Day, Cruise and Evening Wear specialist based in Clitheroe in the heart of the Ribble Valley.In store we have selected a large array of collections from many different designers around the world with accessories, handbags, and shoes to compliment that perfect look. Rainbow shoes and handbags dyeing service available in-store to match any outfit.

Viewing is simply a must.

Phone: 01200 422405 Email: info@fancyfrocks.co.uk Web: www.fancyfrocks.co.uk

OPENING TIMES Monday – Appointment only (Popular, prior notice needed) Tuesday – 10am to 5pm

Wednesday – 11am to 4.30pm Thursday, Friday & Saturday – 10am to 5pm Sunday – Closed

7 York Street, Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 2DL 9

FINANCE

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE

A SECURE FUTURE WITH EQUITY RELEASE? THESE days we have to look at a variety of ways to raise cash and ensure that our future will be secure and one popular way for anyone over 55 to do just that is via equity release, with research carried out by the Equity Release Council showing that 72% of homeowners over 45 questioned wanted to stay in their property for as long as possible, with 41% also looking to invest in home improvements.

Equity release offers the chance to access the cash – the equity – tied up in your home, which can be released either as a lump sum or in several small amounts, or a combination of both. There are two equity release options: a home reversion and a lifetime mortgage.

A HOME REVERSION involves you selling part or all of your home to a home reversion provider in return for a lump sum or regular payments.You have the right to continue living in the property until you die, rent-free,

10

but you have to agree to maintain and insure it.

You can ring-fence a percentage of your property for later use, possibly for inheritance - the percentage you retain will always remain the same, regardless of the change in property values, unless you decide to take further cash releases. At the end of the plan, your property is sold and the sale proceeds are shared according to the remaining proportions of ownership.You will get a lump sum or regular payments – normally between 20 per cent and 60 per cent of the market value of your home, or the part you sell.

With home reversions, it’s worth checking whether or not you can release equity in several payments or in one lump sum and the minimum age at which you can take out a home reversion plan. Some providers insist you’re at least 60 or 65 before you can apply.

Keep in mind the percentage of the market value you will receive. This will increase the

older you are when you take out the plan but might vary from provider to provider. Also check whether you have the right to remain in your property for life or until you need to move to long-term care, provided the property remains your main residence and you abide by the terms and conditions of your contract.

It’s worth checking whether you have the right to move to another property, subject to the new property being acceptable to your product provider as continuing security for your equity release loan and whether the product has a “no negative equity guarantee”.

You will also need to know what level of maintenance you’ll be expected to carry out and how often your property will be inspected – this could be every few years.

The Money Advice Service explains that a LIFETIME MORTGAGE means that you take out a mortgage secured on your property, provided it is your main residence, while retaining ownership.

You may be able to ring-fence some of the value of your property as an inheritance for your family or you can choose to make repayments or let the interest roll-up. The loan amount and any accrued interest is paid back when you die or when you move into long-term care.

according to your age when you take out the lifetime mortgage, while some providers might offer larger sums to those with certain past or present medical conditions. Many lenders offer interest rates which are fixed or, if they are variable, have a “cap” or upper limit which is fixed for the loan’s duration.

Most people who take out equity release use a lifetime mortgage. Usually you don’t have to make any repayments while you’re alive and interest “rolls up” (unpaid interest is added to the loan), meaning the debt can increase quite quickly over a period of time. However, some lifetime mortgages do now offer the option to pay all or some of the interest. Some will let you pay off the interest and the capital.

Check whether the product has a “no negative equity guarantee” This means that, when your property is sold and agents’ and solicitors’ fees have been paid, even if the amount left is not enough to repay the outstanding loan to your provider neither you nor your estate will be liable to pay any more.

In the same way ordinary mortgages vary from lender to lender, so do lifetime mortgages, and if you’re looking at this option it’s worth knowing that the minimum age for this is usually 55. As we’re now all living longer, the earlier you start the more this is likely to cost in the long run.

The average borrower in their late 60s can usually borrow around 35% of the value of their home, but how much can be released is dependent on your age and the value of your property. The percentage typically increases

Again, it’s also worth finding out if you have the right to move to another property, subject to the new property being acceptable to your product provider as continuing security for your equity release loan, as different lifetime mortgage providers might have slightly different thresholds.

Consider whether you can pay none, some or all of the interest. If you can make repayments, the mortgage will be less costly.

However, with a lifetime mortgage where you can make monthly payments, the amount you can repay might be based on your income.

Providers will have to check you can afford these regular payments.

Empowering you with the retirement you deserve

Look at whether you can withdraw the equity you’re releasing in small amounts, as and when you need it, or whether you have to take it as one lump sum. The advantage of being able to take money out in smaller amounts is you only pay the interest on the amount you’ve withdrawn. If you can take smaller lump sums, check if there is a minimum amount.

Overall, equity release might seem like a good option if you want some extra money and don’t want to move house, but it’s worth bearing in mind that equity release can be more expensive in comparison to an ordinary mortgage. In addition, it’s worth considering any additional changes taking out equity release could make to existing arrangements, with the potential to lose means-tested benefits being key among them. It’s also worth considering involving your family throughout the process, as any equity taken out of the home will impact their inheritance later down the line.

Speak to an independent financial adviser to find out if equity release is right for you, and whether it could help in supporting your financial future.

Retirement

• Lifetime mortgages are helping more and more over 55s finance their retirement • To see if it could be the right option for you, contact an independent financial adviser www.pureretirement.co.uk

#PureEmpowerment

Company registered in England and Wales No. 7240896. Pure Retirement Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA registered No.582621.

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CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE

JAMES MARTIN THE MAN OF MANY TALENTS JAMES Martin had just been playing at Carfest South in Basingstoke, was about to give a cookery demonstration at the Bolton Food and Drink Festival and was flying out to Ireland for filming the next morning.

Now, if that sounds like a hectic schedule, it is. Especially, as James explained, "I didn’t get to bed until 3.15am on Sunday morning” after Carfest.

And playing there? Yes, the multi-talented chef turns out to be a musician and his group had a significant set at the annual event run by his mate Chris Evans.

In fact, this was the first time they had played in public after hours of practising in a scout hut or his living room and he went from playing in front of his Mum 12

and a few chef friends to an audience of 34,500 people.

It is just part of the 47 year-old’s philosophy of trying new experiences.

So, how was it? “Amazing but terrifying” was his verdict. He and his group played just after Jools Holland and just before the Kaiser Chiefs.

“I’ve never been one to say ‘I wish I’d done this or that’,” he stated. “You should grab every opportunity that comes to you.”

Food, though, is still his priority. “Food has always been at the top of the list and will always, always be there. And the restaurants will be because you employ people and they have got kids and mortgages to pay so that’s your priority 150 per cent.”

James, who counts the Rolling Stones’ Gimme Shelter as his favourite song, only started playing guitar 12 months ago.

“I came straight off stage and Chris said ‘What are you doing next year?’ I said Whoa, whoa. The main thing was we weren’t s***!”

But the many fans of the plain-speaking James Martin need not worry that this new success might drag him away from his cookery interests and his TV appearances.

James is, however, realistic about the value of his high profile in all fields. “Without the media stuff, the restaurants wouldn’t have the success,” he concluded.

He was off to Ireland the next morning for filming a new TV series, Islands and Highlands, due to air in February, 2020.

James is a genuine advocate of the best of British food but he applies the same principle to foods from all across the globe.

He was appearing at the annual Bolton Food and Drink Festival, which he happily described as “the best food and drink festival in the country.” He has been going to the North-west town for its hugely popular festival for the last 11 years and “loves Bolton – the place and the people.

In fact, the people make the place.”

He has a direct view about food. I dared to ask him if he thought people were cooking more healthily now.

That might be good news for his dedicated followers but it is also a reflection of who James Martin really is.

He has long made Saturday mornings a TV must for cookery fans, first with Saturday Morning Kitchen - which he fronted for 10 years until 2016 - and now with James Martin’s Saturday Morning Show, filmed at his home.

His blunt Yorkshire roots, his laddish looks and an indisputable onscreen charisma have made him a telly cookery favourite and his shows and appearances a sell-out.

All of this, however, was a long way in the future when he was growing up on the Castle Howard estate in York where his father was a catering manager.Young James must have been soaking up the knowledge and love of food even then because he opted to take catering training in college which resulted in him being Student of the Year three years running.

Following catering college, he worked for various top chefs in leading restaurants including foodie household names like Antony Worrall Thompson and Marco Pierre White.

He toured France, working in chateau kitchens and gaining a unique blend of experience and skills, before returning

to England to kickstart his high-profile career.

In 1994, just before his 22nd birthday, he opened his own hotel and bistro in Winchester and has followed this over the years with other premises including a hotel in Manchester.

When Saturday Morning Kitchen launched in 2006, he was the obvious choice and the formula certainly paid off. He regularly attracted 3.4 million viewers. James also became a favourite on other food shows like Ready Steady Cook and remains a respected expert and entertainer in a field where cooks often come and go.

In 2013, he was honoured with The Craft Guild of Chefs Special Award for outstanding contribution to the industry.

The following year his series Food Map of Britain was voted Best Daytime and Early Peak Programme by the Royal Television Society. In 2015, he was named TV Personality of the Year at the Fortnum & Mason Awards.

His name and skills are known around the world and he has written a raft of cookery books that easily demonstrate his passion for food along with his vast knowledge.

“Healthy food!” he flashed.“If you want that get JoeWicks down here but that’s not me. I like tasty food. Food’s a magical thing.We’ve all got to eat so why not enjoy it?”

He then went on to demonstrate dishes he knows delight audiences: Monkfish and Korean Aubergines, Seabass with Buttered Tagliatelle and Beurre Blanc and Summer Fruit Pudding with Clotted Cream.

The biggest response of the demonstration was for a massive cheese and ham toastie – made with a full loaf, masses of cheese, cream and ham – which he declared his favourite.

It’s plain from the enthusiastic live audience reaction and the long queues of people forming to meet him and have him sign copies of his latest book that people love him and all he does.

Perhaps the main thing is that James Martin has built a solid and successful career on being James Martin - chef, hotelier, restaurateur, TV presenter, fast-car fan, musician and full-time Yorkshireman and food enthusiast.

Recipes from James Martin's recent book Great British Adventure start on page 24.

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MOTORING

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE

STEVE HOWARTH'S TEST DRIVE

AUDI Q3 THERE are still some colours for cars which can cause a stir and our latest test motor is a case in point… for the quite subdued Audi Q3 came in Pulse Orange.

The mid-sized SUV certainly stood out on our grey streets in a colour some would describe as striking while others may find it a little garish.

Either way you are certainly going to get noticed – which is probably just as well as the colour was a £575 option as was the Orange Alcantara trimmed interior, an extra £375.

But colour scheme aside this latest version of the big-selling Q3 has a hard act to follow as the SUV has sold in record numbers since Audi introduced it in 2011.

Our test version was the 2.0 litre petrol S line 45 TFi Quattro 230PS S tronic meaning it had Audi’s excellent 7-speed auto transmission and plenty of power from its smooth four cylinder power plant, 0 to 62 in 6.3 seconds and a top speed double the legal limit at 144mph.

I used the Q3 to attend a VW launch event in the Cotswolds and, due in part to a huge part of the M6 being a building site, I bettered Audi’s claimed MPG getting around 38 over the 300-mile plus round trip.

The Q3 was one of the first compact premium SUVs and it proved a hit from the start with around 1.2 million sold worldwide. However, this second-generation car arrives in a now 14

crowded marketplace so it will have to be good to continue that success.

But with a technologically advanced infotainment system, lots of driver assistance features and interior space and a subtly upgraded exterior it now looks like the rangetopping Q8’s baby brother.

There are a range of petrol and diesel engines that produce between 147bhp and 223bhp.

Depending on the engine you choose, you can opt for front-wheel drive, a quattro four-wheel-drive powertrain and a sixspeed manual or a seven-speed dual clutch S tronic automatic transmission.

The petrol Q3 range starts with a front-wheeldrive 1.5-litre turbo engine (the 35 TFSI) while the petrol 2-litre models are identified with 40 and 45 TFSI badging and both come with four-wheel drive, which does take a toll on MPG figures. However, being the S line means it gets stiffened and lowered suspension which improves handling and body roll.

S line models also have larger 19-inch alloy wheels than entry-level Sport trim cars meaning more grip and 2.0-litre cars (40 TFSI and 45 TFSI) come as standard with a smooth seven-speed auto gearbox.

Road and wind noise are minimal and any shape and size of driver can get comfortable thanks to a wide range of adjustment in both seating and the steering wheel position.

But where Audi remain ahead of the pack is its digital infotainment and display systems.

As standard, you get a 10.25in version of Audi’s Virtual Cockpit with a 12.3in upgrade available. Conventional analogue dials are replaced with a highly configurable, full colour display that has sharp graphics (including Google Earth maps for 3D sat nav maps) and it’s easy to switch views with the steering wheel-mounted controls.

Rear parking sensors come as standard and a rear view camera is an option on all trims plus a 360deg camera and a parking assistance feature are also available.

As you’d expect from Audi, the interior looks and feels well screwed together, with softtouch material and metal-effect trims dotted around and quality switches and buttons.

If money is no object,Vorsprung trim gives you a Q3 with virtually every option box ticked.You get big 20in wheels like fitted to the Audi RS6 Performance estate, Matrix LED headlights, that Bang & Olufsen Premium 3D sound system and parking assistance with 360deg cameras and an adaptive suspension system.

So with prices ranging from £29,460 up to £48,465 there is plenty of choice, depending on your budget, and the new Q3 looks like a real contender but it will have its work cut out as almost every mainstream car maker has not got onto the compact SUV bandwagon.

More information at www.audi.co.uk For all the latest car tests see the motoring section of our website at www.50plusmagazine.co.uk/motors

GARDEN | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

Create a window in a boundary wall

NEW YEAR, NEW LOOK Gardening writer Julia Heaton looks at ways of making the most of your outdoor space in 2020.

It’s a new year.

Time to start afresh in the garden and turn those ideas you’ve been dreaming about over winter into reality. Whether a major transformation or simply disguising an ugly drain cover, making plans and acting on them is exciting and rejuvenating for you and your outdoor space. One of the best moves I made last

year was to give my wooden panel fencing a facelift. The dark protective coating had done its job but really made the garden feel much smaller and enclosed than it needed to be. Admittedly the lighter paint finish I chose required a few coats to mask what was underneath but the difference it made justified all the hard work – not only has the fencing receded from view but the paler backdrop really sets off plants growing against it.

Field scabious is a magnet for bees

ColourFence A low maintenance alternative Traditionally wooden fence panels, if they are not treated regularly rot and therefore require yearly maintenance. A long term option is using ColourFence, who's product requires no painting or repairs and is guaranteed for 25 years* meaning that the fencing part of your garden is totally maintenance free. *see website for details.

Here’s a few more ideas to give your outdoor space a lift in 2020.

Borrow the view Is there a view or attractive feature beyond your garden that you could focus the eye on to make your plot feel bigger than it actually is? It could be a church spire, a group of trees or perhaps some hills on the horizon. Trimming an opening in a hedge will frame the scene and draw the eye to what lies outside as will creating a ‘window’ in a boundary wall. Some rustic screening or trellising with an archway in it can have the same effect. Alternatively, use a simple pair of trees in pots or two attractive tall urns either side of a feature to direct attention to it.

Grow wild Many modern flowers offer wildlife little or no nectar or have such large and intricate flower heads that insects can’t find a way inside to reach it. Provide a helping hand by planting a native wildflower patch that will offer food, in the form of pollen, seeds, fruits, nectar and foliage to feast on, as well as shelter and nesting sites. Go for plants like common knapweed (Centaurea nigra) and oxeye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgar).

Field scabious (Knautia arvensis) has lovely lilac flowers, shaped like a pin cushion on tall upright stems and flowers between July and September. For scent try chamomile with its apple-like aroma in June to August.

Wildflowers are not only easy to grow but fairly pest resistant too.

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Take it easy Having a gorgeous garden doesn’t mean you have to be a slave to it. Keep things low maintenance by growing plants that are reliable, easy to care for and offer a long flowering season. Evergreen shrubs like viburnums, mahonia and camellias have attractive flowers, provide year-round interest and need little pruning. And don’t forget bulbs will come back year after year. In spring snowdrops (galanthus) look wonderful planted in drifts under trees or brightening up bare space between border shrubs. Crocuses inject much needed colour at this time too. Choose perennials like Geranium ‘Rozanne’ that just need deadheading to encourage more flowers and go for trees like acers that will add height but need little to no pruning.

Devise a plan Grab a diary or calendar in the new year sales or programme your phone to remind you about jobs, like pruning and sowing, that need to be done at a particular time. If it’s major design work you’re considering then don’t underestimate the importance of planning before digging. It’ll save time and stop you from making costly mistakes when you’re tempted to buy at the garden centre. Knowledge is key so get to know everything about your plot from soil type to which areas are in sun and shade. Are there large trees that will affect plant growth or structures, like a bin store, that you’d like to disguise. Know what you want to use your garden for and how much time and resources you can devote to it.

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Get the seasons covered Whatever the season you can never predict the weather. A veranda or gazebo will take all the guesswork out of the equation, leaving you free to entertain outdoors whenever you want or just relax and enjoy the garden year-round under cover from rain or full-on sun. Seek out designs like those offered by & urbandecorbury.co.uk, who provide bespoke aluminium framed options that not only fit against a structural wall but include a choice of polycarbonate or glass roofing, all in a range of sizes and colours. Price-wise you can be looking at under £4,000 for a fitted 3m x 3m glass roofed veranda.

Add water Tap into the relaxing sound of running water. These days we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to designs and size of water features. From traditional ponds with built in electrics for larger plots to solar fountains for smaller ones, water adds an extra dimension to your outdoor space and also encourages wildlife. Make it a focal point or use it in amongst planting or a quiet corner for added interest. A still water feature, hidden from view ready to be discovered, is effective too as it provides an element of surprise.

Love your lawn If you don’t have time to do anything else then the quickest and best way of giving your garden a lift is to make sure lawn edges are looking neat and tidy. It’s amazing what a difference a trim can make. Well-defined edges against paving show you care and look really stylish. Do it at least once every other cut using long-handled edging shears or a special half-moon edging iron. A powered nylon-line trimmer will make quick work of a larger lawn.

Think outside the border Don’t confine plants to borders and patio pots. Create extra space for them to grow in by lifting slabs and planting up the gaps with tough rock plants, low growing herbs and succulents. If you’ve got a large expanse of patio that you want to keep for entertaining, it’s a simple way of softening the look of it and makes the space much more inviting and individual. In the same way see a broken slab as a planting opportunity rather than an eyesore. Choose drought tolerant types that are happy with limited root space like

Ground-hugging perennial Mazus reptans growing between broken paving slabs

Thymus serpyllum, houseleeks and aubretia.

Less hard landscaping is good for the environment too.

Create a stylish office Exchange the rush of your daily commute for a stroll across the lawn. Having a dedicated space for work or hobbies, where you can spread out rather than be confined to a corner of a spare room, is life-changing. And the beauty is that you get to look out onto your garden every day.

Make it an inviting space year-round by choosing designs made from energy efficient structured insulated panels, which are also tougher than timber-framed buildings. Look for a professional firm working with these materials who can provide a free survey and advice on any planning restrictions.

Make your garden glow Experiment with mains powered lighting, solar and battery-operated lights to emphasise the best features of your garden and turn it into a useable space after dark.

When angled correctly spotlights will help show off a specimen plant or sculpture or the beautiful peeling bark of trees like that of Tibetan cherry. At the other end of the spectrum the portability of battery-operated lanterns makes them ideal for special events – use them to guide party guests along a garden path or to make an alfresco dining table glow. Going for one colour type – either a warm or cool white – will help unify the scheme.

Will your Fence weather the next storm?

With Winter upon us – it’s the perfect time to start preparing your garden for the weather. At the point the fence blows down or rots and falls it becomes a real headache and an urgent problem to fix in order to keep your garden secure.

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HOME | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

RESIN DRIVEWAY PROFITS SOAR WITH NEW SHOWROOM IN YORKSHIRE

Caption: Resin Drives new Brighouse showroom also features fencing, garden rooms, garage doors and even a putting green.

ResinDrives.co.uk Ltd recently celebrated record-breaking figures over the last two months, proving not even Brexit can hold back the Yorkshire-based home improvement firm. The timing could not be better, as they opened their doors to customers with a brandnew flagship showroom in West Yorkshire, Brighouse. The showroom happens to be the biggest internal resin showroom in the UK. As well as resin driveways, it also includes their new line of outdoor products; such as state of the art garden rooms, garage doors, fencing, decking and artificial lawns. There is also a mini putting green for customers to try out their golfing ability or to keep the kids entertained while parents can peruse the many resin samples on display.

“It was important to us to have an impressive flagship showroom for customers to see the quality and variety on offer for themselves.

Despite being a national company, we’re proud of our Yorkshire roots so Brighouse was an ideal location for our flagship showroom. Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw away from the M62, making it easily accessible for people further afield too. We invite customers to come in at

their leisure, where they can expect a warm Yorkshire welcome, and wide range of outdoor products on display - from resin driveways to garage doors and more.”, explains Managing Director, Carwyn Richards.

The showroom is their second showroom in the UK, with another based in South Wales.

They also have their resin driveways on display in Express Bi-folding Doors showrooms, in Leeds and Romford.

Resin Drives.co.uk Ltd have over 10 years’ experience and uses all their own installation teams to ensure consistent quality control across the board. Resin is becoming increasingly popular with more home owners than ever recognising its superior benefits over other surfacing options on the market: it’s porous, environmentally-friendly, weed adverse, slip-resistant, wheelchair-friendly and has excellent tyre traction. Aside from all the practical benefits, resin driveway gives customer’s many different aesthetic styles to add exceptional kerb appeal. With over 40 stone colours to choose from a trip to the showroom is definitely worthwhile.

Pop into Resin Drives new showroom today: Unit 4D Armytage Road, Brighouse, off Junction 25 from the M62. (Just next door to the British Car Auction). HD6 1QF. Alternatively, for more information call: 0800 007 5733 or visit: www.resindrives.co.uk

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CREATING A WARM AND BEAUTIFUL HOME THIS WINTER

C

REATING a warm glow in your home throughout the chillier months is not just about effective heating and insulation.

enclosed fires that come in wooden columns or unusual centrepieces to draw the eye as soon as you enter the room.

It’s also about ensuring you have the right décor and furnishings throughout your property so that just being there – or just visiting – is a cosy and enjoyable experience.

If you prefer a wall fire, either mounted or in its own fireplace, there are plenty of ways to enhance it there.

A fireplace surround could be made from metallic porcelain tiles, sculptural ceramic, marble, hand-painted terra cotta or even a mosaic tile. Fireplaces can look amazing set into wooden surrounds because they add an extra depth to the patina of the wood.

Of course you need to ensure that your boiler and central heating are working properly and that your windows are well-fitted and giving you the kind of insulation that prevents your fuel bills from rocketing when the temperature outside drops.

But it is also about the whole atmosphere of your property. And that requires proper thought and planning so that, after work or going out and about, you can’t wait to get back to your comfortable home and finally relax happily.

Cosy homes certainly come into their own at Christmas when family get-togethers need a warm backdrop and all the festive décor is about sparkle and a feelgood vibe.

So it is definitely worth taking a fresh evaluation of your home’s warm appeal right now.

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Nothing says “cosy” quite like snuggling up in blanket in front of an open FIRE and if you are lucky enough to already have a working fireplace, then take advantage of it.

Logs crackling in the hearth or in a burner not only feel warm but offer the additional bonus of looking bright and welcoming.

The firelight reflects in any room offering the warmest of glows, whatever the weather.

A fire can also be the centrepiece of a living space – but it doesn’t just have to be in the wall. These days you can get

If you have a non-working fireplace, fill it with fire-ready logs anyway or place tiered candles inside as a feature. If you would rather cover it up, invest in an ornate fire screen to make an extra talking point.

We tend to think of anywhere “cosy” as small but the dictionary definition is “giving a feeling of comfort, warmth and relaxation”, no mention of small.

So if you have a large or open-plan LIVING ROOM you can still make it cosily attractive at a time of year when you are likely to spend plenty of time sitting happily ensconced in a comfortable

chair or sofa as the rain batters outside or the snow freezes.

In a bigger space, large, well-upholstered furniture can really work and provide an inviting spot to be. Sectional sofas are a good choice here to break up the expanse; placing your furniture into seating groups makes social gatherings so much easier and more friendly.

In a high room, add tall, voluminous plants to take up empty corners or fill vertical space. Just ensure that any living plants can get enough light. Dead plants don’t enhance any room!

Plants can bring a room alive, though, and the greenery is very welcome in Winter so it’s definitely worth looking at placing a couple in areas where they will bring a different element to the room. For example, place a few differently sized pots together in a group to provide an interesting little area.

To bring in a big room and create that cosy feeling, paint your wall two-toned. Painting it until several inches from the ceiling can also make the room feel slightly smaller and warmer.

Opt for comfort here – after all, you’re going to spend quite a large amount of time using them so they need to be as comfortable as possible.

The fabric used on your furniture is more important than ever in the Winter as a cold fabric can automatically make you feel chilly.

A soft but durable fabric that can stand up to plenty of use is the ideal and recliners always win over standard sofas and squashy chairs here – so investing in at least one may prove to be the best thing you’ve ever done!

Using a throw or faux fur is another simple way to warm up a room. A brightly coloured throw, draped over the back of a sofa not only adds texture, colour and warmth to the look of this room but also offers something to pop around your shoulders if you feel a little chilly and just need warming up.

Team cushions in soft and contrasting colours and fabrics to help your décor and you’ve got just the right balance of style and comfort here.

Conversely, if you want to make the room feel much larger, just paint a few inches onto the ceiling.

An accent wall in a warm tone also adds to the cosy feeling and a dusky red on the wall behind a fireplace doubles the warmth of any room.

Colours have a huge effect on our mood so take a really good look at available paint palettes before deciding on your decor. While cool greys translate well into Winter, especially teamed with warmer accents of bright colour, try bold combinations like burnished red with navy or mustard.

The latest trends offer clever ideas from Nature to help. Warmer pinks and browns, washed teals and mossy greens offer a relaxed, neutral colour scheme that create a comforting ambience ideal for enhancing Winter warmth.

For a different look, instead of a coffee table in your living room, try an oversized ottoman. These soft, plush pieces of furniture automatically make any room look and feel warmer.

You can rest your feet on them for relaxing and, with an additional tray, they make a perfectly good coffee table as well. The other plus is that an ottoman offers extra storage so you can tidy away items to offer clean lines to enhance the atmosphere you’re trying to create.

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In spite of today’s love affair with the Kindle and iPad when it comes to reading books, people still love the original paper version and books can bring so much to a living room.

There is definitely something comforting and reassuring about books so bookshelves are worth considering in rooms where furniture is pushed away from the walls.

If you have a large book collection, here is the ideal place to store them and if you have a small collection, why not arrange like books together with knick-knacks and accent pieces to fill vertical spaces?

This kind of artistic grouping gives real personality to a room. Another way to make it more like your own living space is to add family photos.

They make a room feel inviting and warm and offer a talking point for visitors.

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companies who will transfer your old tapes onto DVD this will normally cost around £20 per tape (4 hours). This can be costly if you have several tapes to transfer and will cost more if editing is required. Electrovid Q & A from ElectroVid USE www.electrovid.co.uk | info@electrovid.co.uk however offer options from as little as £69 Can I Still Buy a VCR? FOR that will enable you to convert unlimited Electrovid, 9 &can 15no Brindley Since the late Units 2000’s you longer Road, St Helens, WA9 4HY DAY amounts of VHS yourself with a simple step purchase new Video Recorders. You can by step process. purchase them second hand on eBay or other marketplaces, but these often come without Can I obtain Remote Controls for warranty and service. Companies such as old video recorders?

Electrovid offer fully refurbished players/ As this technology does get older the recorders with money back guarantee, remotes are often the first thing to fail. warranty and free technical support from If you purchase a refurbished unit from £39.90.

Electrovid it will arrive with an updated Visit www.electrovid.co.uk or call remote control that will function the same 01744 322 694. as the original.

Do VCRs work with modern TVs? Most modern TVs will have one SCART Socket or a composite (red, white and yellow) that VCRs will connect to. If your TV doesn’t have this socket you can purchase SCART to HDMI adaptors that will work around this update.

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I have an old VCR that no longer works, can I have it repaired?

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Electrovid offers a fully refurbished VHS Player unit from one of the largest brands in the UK. You have the option to choose a preferred brand or alternatively let us choose for you. Each unit is fully refurbished including internal inspection and a thorough head clean. The outer case is treated with cleaning products that remove dust, aged stains and remove any remaining glue substances from stickers and decals.

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FOOD & DRINK

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LYMPSTONE MUSSELS I have never seen anything like the contraption used by the mussel men of the River Exe.They don’t use dredges, which wreck the sea bed; they use a self-flushing elevator that kind of hoovers up the mussels, causing less disturbance and producing a more sustainable supply all year round.The mussels are then cleaned, graded and put in purification tanks for a few days before being sold. Myles is the brains behind The Exmouth Mussel Company, so next time you’re down there, pop in and say hi. It was a pleasure to cook these wonderful mussels with my mate Michael Caines.

Serves 4 50g butter 100g smoked streaky bacon, chopped into lardons 1 onion, diced 2 celery sticks, diced 2 garlic cloves, crushed sea salt and freshly ground black pepper small bunch of sea aster 250ml cider 250ml double cream 2kg mussels, cleaned and debearded 4 thick slices of white crusty bread 2 tablespoons olive oil small bunch of flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Heat a large casserole dish over a medium heat for a few minutes until hot, then add half the butter.

When it has melted and is sizzling, add the bacon pieces and fry until crisp.

Add the diced onion and celery and the garlic and season well. Stir everything together and cook over a low heat for a few minutes, stirring every now and then.

Add the sea aster and pour in the cider and cream, then season with black pepper. Stir everything together then add the remaining butter. Once the butter has melted and the liquid is simmering, pop the mussels in and stir everything together. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 4 minutes.

Drizzle the slices of bread with the olive oil and toast in a flat frying pan until charred. Check all the mussels have opened, discarding any that haven’t, then tip into a serving bowl. Sprinkle over the parsley and serve with the toasted bread.

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GIANT’S CAUSEWAY FISH STEW I don’t know who looked more confused, me or the thousands of tourists all around me while we were filming this dish on the stones of the Giant’s Causeway. I’d never been before but it really is a sight to behold. In fact, the whole coastline of this part of Northern Ireland is worth a trip – it is rugged and beautiful in equal measure, as is the produce that can be found here. Ales, meat, dairy, fish… It is so rich and diverse with such amazing food.

Serves 6 400g mussels, cleaned and debearded 25g butter 1 shallot, finely diced 25g plain flour sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 400ml full-fat milk 100ml double cream 1 medium floury potato, cooked and diced (you need 200g) 400g salmon fillet, skinned and chopped into 2-cm cubes 200g white crab meat 100g brown crab meat small bunch of chives, chopped To serve double cream olive oil

Place a large sieve over a bowl. Pour 100ml water into a large heavy-based saucepan and set the pan over a high heat. Add the mussels, cover with a lid and cook for 3 minutes until the mussels have steamed open. Strain the mussels through the sieve, reserving the liquor, then pick the mussel meat from the shells and set aside. Discard any mussels that haven’t opened.

In the same pan, melt the butter over a medium heat. As soon as the butter has melted, stir in the shallot and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring regularly, until softened.

Stir in the flour, season, and cook for around 1 minute. Pour the reserved mussel liquor into the pan, stirring all the time, then add the milk and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously, until smooth.

Add the potato and salmon, stir everything together, then cover the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes until the potatoes are hot and the salmon has cooked through.

Stir in both types of crab meat and the mussel meat and warm through for a couple of minutes. Add a couple of tablespoons of hot water if the sauce is very thick. Season to taste and scatter over most of the chives.

To serve, ladle the stew into warmed bowls, drizzle with a little extra cream and olive oil, if you fancy, and garnish with the remaining chives.

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FOOD & DRINK

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TAGINE OF LAMB CHOPS WappingWharf is a testament to what’s happening in Bristol right now with new buildings and flats popping up all around and along the old docks. It’s still in its infancy but there are a few restaurants, one of which was a highlight for me – the small and compact BOX-E run by husband and wife Elliott and Tessa Lidstone – as were the two food containers there, one selling cheese and the other some great local meats.You’ll find great lamb all around theWest Country from local suppliers.

Serves 2 1 tablespoon olive oil sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 x 200-g Barnsley lamb chops 1/2 onion, diced 2 garlic cloves, chopped 6 medium tomatoes, quartered 50ml Harveys Bristol cream sherry 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon chilli flakes 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 5-cm piece fresh ginger, grated 2-cm piece fresh turmeric, grated 1 tablespoon runny honey 25g flaked almonds small bunch of fresh coriander, chopped

Heat a large, non-stick frying pan over a medium heat then pour in the oil. Season the chops all over then pop them into the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes until well browned. Flip them over and continue to cook for a further 2–3 minutes.

Add the diced onion, garlic and tomatoes, then pour in the sherry. Use a wooden spoon to stir any juices in the base of the pan into the ingredients.

Add all of the dry spices, stir again, then add the grated ginger and turmeric. Stir and season well.

Keep the pan over a medium heat and cook for 5 minutes – it should be gently bubbling. Check the seasoning then divide between 2 warmed bowls, drizzle with the honey and sprinkle over the almonds and coriander.

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CHOCOLATE STOUT CAKE Stout is a dark, rich top-fermented beer and is the only type of beer you can use for this cake and the icing, so don’t start going off-piste and using Stella or other stuff – it won’t work!

Serves 10 200g butter 150g dark chocolate, broken into pieces 300ml stout 4 eggs 500g soft light brown sugar 350g self-raising flour For the icing 400g full-fat cream cheese 25ml stout 200g icing sugar a couple of squares of dark or milk chocolate, to decorate

Preheat the oven to 160°C (140°C fan)/320°F/ gas 3. Line a 27-cm, deep-sided cake tin with greaseproof paper.

Put the butter, chocolate and stout into a large heatproof bowl and rest over a pan of justsimmering water, making sure the base doesn’t touch the water, until the butter and chocolate have melted.

Lift the bowl off the pan and leave to cool slightly.

Add the eggs and sugar to the mixture and whisk well, then fold in the flour until the mixture is smooth.

Pour the cake batter into the prepared tin and bake for 1 hour. Leave to cool in the tin before turning out.

To make the icing, whisk the cream cheese, stout and icing sugar together in a bowl until smooth.

Spoon on top of the cake and spread out to cover.

Grate the chocolate over the top and serve.

Extracted from James Martin’s Great British Adventure by James Martin (Quadrille, £25) Photography Peter Cassidy

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LEISURE

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WHAT'S ON A GUIDE TO WHAT'S HAPPENING IN YOUR REGION ...

FRIDAY 31 JANUARY 2020 GHOST TOURS AT HOGHTON TOWER TIME 6:00PM - 9:00PM

7 JANURARY 2020 10AM - 11-45 KNOTT END BEACH CLEAN

SATURDAY 18 JANUARY 2020.

9:00AM - 1:00PM STOCK UP ON LOCAL PRODUCE...

We provide all equipment.

Just put on your boots or wellies and come along to help out.

Head on down to this monthly farmers' market, supporting local producers and the reduction of food miles. Make sure to pick up some fair trade goods and local produce whilst you're there!

There will also be a collection point for Preston food bank and the Ashton councillors' surgery. Cost Free.

Knott End Car park, Knott End-on-Sea FY6 0E T: 01995 602125

11 JANUARY 2020 - SATURDAY 08 FEBRUARY 20207:30PM - 8:30PM THE SPIRE AT NIGHT

See Preston from a new angle...

One of the best landmarks of Preston, St. Walburge's Church Spire, will be open to the general public after the New Year in 2020. From the 11 January until the 8 February, each Saturday, visitors will be able to ascend the 309 foot (94 metres) high spire. It is the third tallest spire in the United Kingdom, and is the tallest on a parish church.

On a clear night visitors will have an excellent view of Preston, and the surrounding countryside as far as Blackpool. The tower contains a single bell of 31cwt (1.5 tonnes) cast by Mears and Stainbank of Whitechapel which is the heaviest swinging bell in Lancashire.

After the ascent visitors will be invited to enjoy refreshments such as mince pie and mulled wine. Cost £8.50 St. Walburge's Church, Preston PR2 2QE www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/spire-at-nighttickets-78800794297

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St Michael's Church Hall, Tulketh Road, Preston PR2 1AJ www. stmichaelspreston.co.uk

28 JANUARY 2020 EMPRESS BALLROOM AFTERNOON EXTRAVAGANZA

We are proud to present TWO events on the 'new' Empress Ballroom Mighty Wurlitzer!

BBC Organist Nigel Ogden entertains with an afternoon of music! 14.00 An evening of Ballroom and Sequence Dancing to Cameron Lloyd, David Lobban and Alec Walters! 19:30 The rare opportunity to see this instrument in action, in the hands of some great artists!

Price From £6.50 Empress Ballroom Winter Gardens, 97 Church St, Whitley Bay, Blackpool FY1 1HU www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk

Embark on a Hoghton Tower ghost tour, if you dare...

Silent torchbearers will take you on a spooky tour through the darkened halls of Hoghton Tower. Here you will encounter spectres from the past and learn about the ghostly happenings from across the centuries.

Venture through the underground passages and see if you can spot the black dog who haunts the Well House as well as many other mysterious and spooky goings on.

The ghost tour package includes a two course meal of either a cottage pie or vegetarian cottage pie, with sticky toffee pudding for dessert.

Doors open from 5.30pm and food is served at 6pm, followed by the ghost tour.

Warm clothing and sensible footwear is advised. The tour is aimed at adults and is not suitable for anyone under the age of 16.

At least one member of the party should be over the age of 21.

How to book: To buy tickets online visit Hoghton Tower - Ghost Tours. Cost £32 pp Hoghton Tower, Hoghton, Preston, PR5 0SH T: 01254 852986

4 FEB 2020 10:00 - 11:45 WYRE ESTUARY COUNTRY PARK HEALTH WALK

Urban/rural walk through the Wyre Estuary Country Park, comfortable footwear required also suitable for beginners. If one hour is a bit too long for you, this walk is available as a gentle amble at 30 minutes.

Please let the leader know if you would find this helpful when you join the group.

River Road, Stanah, Thornton Cleveleys FY5 5LR T: 01995 602125

6TH & 13TH FEBRUARY ROSSALL POINT TOWER BEACH CLEAN

Meet at the Tower to take part in litter picks and other beach care activities.

Rossall Point Tower, Outer Promenade, The Esplanade, Fleetwood FY7 6DN 01995 602125

n

il

THE NORTH WEST’S

8TH, 9TH 15TH FEBRUARY SNOWDROP WEEKENDS

Come for a snowdrop trail through the parkland and marvel at the vast displays of snowdrops. The tea room/cafe will be open for you to warm up with a hot drink, a light bite or a hearty meal and there is a little shop in the courtyard with bric-a-brac and snowdrops.

Costs; Adults £3.00 Children 50p Please note, as these weekends are very popular, we restrict vehicle access to Lytham Hall to Blue badge holders only. Free parking is available at the Ballam Rd car park and the Serco car park opposite the gates of the Hall.

....

Bolton’s Award Winning Market has everything you need this Christmas 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.

Lytham Hall, Ballam Road, Lytham St Annes FY8 4JX T: 01253 736652

18 FEB 2020 - 22 FEB 2020 THE SOUND OF MUSIC

One of the greatest musicals of all time returns to the stage in a magnificent production to enchant and enthral the young and the young at heart. Based on Baroness Maria von Trapp’s 1949 autobiography, this wonderfully lavish new staging of The Sound Of Music tells the true story of the worldfamous singing family, from their romantic beginnings and search for happiness, to their thrilling escape to freedom as their beloved Austria becomes part of the Third Reich at the start of WWII. Price From £19.00 Opera House Winter Gardens, 97 Church St, Whitley Bay, Blackpool FY1 1HU www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk

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.

Open : Every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday from 9am to 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

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LEISURE

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SUN, 1. MARCH 2020, 7:30PM CARL HUTCHINSON

UNTIL SATURDAY 18 APRIL 2020 90 OBJECTS - 90 YEARS 10:00AM - 4:00PM

After two consecutive sell-out years, Carl returns with a brand new show, expect stories, observations & audience interaction.

Always an exciting night, join this dynamic and versatile performer for a truly unmissable evening of comedy.

Tickets: £15

The celebrate 90 years of the Lancashire Infantry Museum at Fulwood Barracks, 90 objects have been selected for display.

The exhibition will be open Tuesday Thursday and Saturday, with free admission and free parking. Photo ID is needed for entry to Fulwood Barracks.Free Entry

Chorley Little Theatre, 10 Dole Ln, Chorley PR7 2RL Tickets 01257 264362

SUN, 1 MARCH 2020 PRESTON ARMS & MILITARIA FAIR

Preston Arms & Militaria Fair features a display of military collectables, quality reference books, items, Medals, Badges, Swords, Daggers, Bayonets, Helmets, Flags, Field Equipment, Award Documents, Uniforms, Antique Firearms, Arms and Armour, Legally Deactivated Weapons, Military Postcards, Vehicles, and much more.

9AM - 6PM Best Western Park Hall Hotel Park Hall Rd, Charnock Richard, Preston

THUR 5 MARCH 8PM - 11PM DEEPER PURPLE - PERFECT STRANGERS TOUR 2020

A classic rock tribute show to one of the world’s most influential rock bands, the international tribute Deeper Purple are on the road as a ‘Highway Star’ and guaranteed to take you back to the classic 1970s with memories of a ‘Child in Time’. So, if you like your music loud and proud it’s time for a ‘Black Night’ at the Deeper Purple show.

Featuring Paul Morris (Rainbow, Yngwie Malmsteen and Purpendicular).

Entry price£12.

The New Continental in Preston S Meadow Ln, Preston PR1 8JP 01772 499425

SAT, 7. MARCH 2020 8:00PM - 10:15PM MANFORD'S COMEDY CLUB

A regular event in which Jason selects some of his favourite circuit comedians and sends them to Chorley Theatre for a great night of comedy.

Check nearer the time for line-up.

Please note: Jason Manford is not part of the line-up.Tickets £12.50 Chorley Little Theatre, 10 Dole Ln, Chorley PR7 2RL Tickets 01257 264362

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SATURDAY 7TH MARCH 2020 BILLY FURY YEARS 7.30PM

One of the best-selling recording artists of the 1960s, Billy Fury enjoyed a string of hit singles totalling a remarkable 332 weeks in the British charts. Health problems since childhood led to the singer’s untimely death on January 28, 1983.

“King captured fully the sound, the gestures, the mannerisms, even the physical appearance of arguably Britain’s greatest Rock and Roll singer” Tickets £20 Marine Hall Theatre, The Esplanade, Fleetwood, Lancashire, FY7 6HF Tel: 01253 887693

11 MAR 2020. 10:30 - 11:30 GARSTANG HEALTH WALK

Rural walk around Garstang. Walking shoes/ boots recommended. These regular walks are designed to help you get fit, stay fit and keep healthy. Grade: Moderate Garstang Centre, Cherestanc Square, Garstang, Lancashire, PR3 1EF Tel: 01995 602125

Lancashire Infantry Museum, Fulwood Barracks, Fulwood, Preston PR2 8AA www.lancashireinfantrymuseum.org.uk

25TH & 26TH APRIL 2020 BLACKPOOL FESTIVAL OF RUNNING 10:30AM

The Blackpool Festival of Running returns for 2020, with another two days of sporting excellence. As always the event is run on Blackpool's Promenade, passing all the great landmarks and tourist spots.

Full and half marathon, 10k, 5k, and 2k events. The course is very flat - great for the PB chasers out there. The festival is ideal for all the family, with the 5k event open to all runners over the age of 11 on the day, and a 2k for ages 6 and over! Everyone is welcome, young and old, fast and slow.

Wheelchair friendly, Nordic walkers, power walkers and runers with buggies welcome.

The event is held over 2 days, with the 10k, 5k and 2k on Saturday 25th and the marathon & half marathon on Sunday 26th.

Blackpool Tower, Promenade, Blackpool, Lancashire

EVERY TUESDAY AND THURSDAY 10.00 AM HEALTH WALKS

Join the regulars for a stroll around the Park for an hour or so followed by refreshments and a chat in the Visitor Centre and Cafe.

02 APRIL 2020 WHITNEY - QUEEN OF THE NIGHT TIME 19:30

Direct from The West End, experience the ultimate Whitney Houston tribute show as it tours across the UK performing over 100 concerts every year!

Whitney - Queen of the Night is a stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time. Price From £25.50 Opera House Winter Gardens, 97 Church St, Whitley Bay, Blackpool FY1 1HU www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk

Cuerden Valley Park Trust Park Office, Visitor Centre, Berkeley Drive, Bamber Bridge PR5 6BY T: 01772 324436

9 MAY 2020 PINK FLOYDIAN PRESENT AN EVENING OF CLASSIC PINK FLOYD

The 2½ hour show sees them performing classic moments from Piper at the Gates of Dawn, Saucerful of Secrets, More, Atom Heart Mother, Obscured by Clouds, Meddle, Dark Side of the Moon, Animals, Wish You Were Here, The Wall, Momentary Lapse of Reason…

Marine Hall Theatre, The Esplanade, Fleetwood, Lancashire, FY7 6HF Tel: 01253 887693

What will be?

What will youryour legacylegacy be?

Leaving a gift in your Will ensures we can continue our work giving shelter to over 1,000 animals each year.

We depend totally on the generosity of our supporters.

ANIMAL CARE has a long history in the Lancaster & Morecambe area so by remembering us in your Will you are supporting a local charity in a lasting way.

About  Darcy...

Darcy is a red/white collie he came to Animal Care 6/7/2013 Darcy is in need of -Experienced Collie owner - Darcy is a complicated young lad with lots of fears and worries poor Darcy has not had the best start in life and Collie, Male, 6 years 9 m because of this has a real fear of people especially men. onths old Darcy was badly treated and not well socialise meaning he gets so worried around new people he will snap and bark at you until he feels he can trust you. He needs an adult only home with people who are used to collies and understand the breed, people who can work and control his behavioural problems. Darcy is keen to learn and like all collies very clever and very loving he has the ability to be a fantastic dog with the right people who have the time and love to put in with Darcy. Darcy loves all dogs and plays well off lead he loves to play ball and is fantastic at fetch. He has shared kennels with other dogs while he has been at Animal Care but can become very protective over his food, toys and bed so we feel he would be better in a home as the only dog.

He can become very stressed on lead and will bark at dogs and strangers he does not know. The staff have helped him overcome some of these problems and he now walks well on his halti. Darcy has never been in a home environment so his owners will need to take on the challenge of house training but he is bright so with time and love he will learn fast. Our dog trainer Kathryn has worked with Darcy and he was very well behaved. kathryn is happy to give advice to any new adopter.

ANIMAL CARE is a small rehoming centre helping stray, unwanted and ill treated animals until caring new homes can be found for them.

Registered Charity No. 508819

Animal Care

(Lancaster, Morecambe and District)

Blea Tarn Road, Scotforth, Lancaster, LA2 ORD | Telephone: 01524 65495 | Fax: 01524 841819 Email: rehoming@animalcare-lancaster.co.uk | www.animalcare-lancaster.co.uk

QuALiTy DenTureS MeAn

A quALITy LIfESTyLE THE IMPORTANCE Of dENTuRES

T

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

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

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.

CHOICE Of dENTuRES There are four main quality standards in denture materials.

The denture base (gum coloured on which the denture teeth sit).

• Standard Quality • High Impact Acrylics (much stronger)

32 26

• Injection Pressure Formed (Premium Denture Base) • Metal Denture

THE dENTuRE TEETH A range of quality teeth are available.

Of course, the materials alone will not make a good denture. In the hands of a skilful and experienced Clinical Dental Technician the best results are achieved.

dENTuRES NEEd REGuLAR SERVICING 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.

Daily cleaning is essential. 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 Clinical Dental Technician at least every two years, or more frequently if necessary.

yOuR dENTuRES NEEd ATTENTION 1. When they become loose.

2. When teeth or denture base discolours.

3. When tooth surfaces become flat.

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

5. When you develop deep lines around your mouth.

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

7. When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed.

If yOuR dENTuRES BREAk Don’t try to repair them with glue. It may mean they then couldn’t be repaired correctly by a Dental Technician.

My dENTuRES HAVE BECOME LOOSE! This is easily remedied by a procedure know as Re-lining. A new layer of Denture base is

HEALTH

added to your existing Denture, improving the fit and restoring confidence.

Relines can be carried out within the same day by prior arrangement.

dENTuRES WITH WORN dOWN TEETH Teeth excessively worn, require a new set of dentures.

dENTuRES ON IMPLANTS This type of Denture is constructed in conjunction with the Dental Implant Surgeon. This is a very good procedure when the patient has limited control and retention of their Dentures. The finished Dentures ‘click’ into position offering the ultimate in Denture Retention.

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.

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SHOuLd I HAVE A SPARE SET Of dENTuRES MAdE?

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.

Yes, it is very important to have a spare set of dentures for emergencies in case of breakage. Remember to take your spare set on holiday with you, just in case you have a problem whilst away. Keep them in your toiletry bag.

WHAT IS A CLINICAL dENTAL TECHNICIAN?

dIffICuLTIES IN CONSTRuCTING A GOOd SET Of dENTuRES Constructing a functional and aesthetically pleasing set of dentures is one of 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.

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.

Professional Clinical Dental Technicians are members of the Dental Health Care Team. They have undergone specific training and education in the skills and knowledge necessary to provide a removable appliance service directly to the community.

Equipped with solid technical training as a Dental Technician - plus post-technician training in sciences, clinical skills, and interpersonal skills - the Clinical Dental Technician can design, create, construct and modify (repair and rebase) removable appliances to ensure optimal fit, maximum comfort and general well-being of patients.

These skills enable the Clinical Dental Technician, whilst remaining a member of the Dental Health Care Team, to work independently of other Dental Health Care providers. If you have any natural teeth or implants we will work in conjunction with a dentist.

LEYLAND DENTURE CENTRE for your next quality denture • • • •

Qualified Clinical Dental Technicians New Dentures and Relines Dental Repairs Free Consultations

NEW DENTURES MADE AT THE CLINIC

PREVIOUS DENTURES

Contact us at:

01772 623 623

Independence House | Golden Hill Lane | Leyland | PR25 3NP Registered with the GENERAL DENTAL COUNCIL Stephen Taylor (Clinical Dental Technician)

GDC 124517

www.leylanddenturecentre.co.uk 33 27

HEALTH

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What happens then?

We handpick the perfect carer for you by considering your overall needs, your lifestyle, and personality. Live-in care is very much a bespoke service., so we make sure that your carer is not only compatible with you as a carer but also someone who will enrich your life on a personal level.

WHAT IS 24/7 LIVE-IN CARE AT HOME? A carer lives with you at your home, providing full support across all aspects of your life, from companionship through to cooking, cleaning, and other household chores as well as taking care of all your care and personal needs.

It can help with the long-term requirements of the elderly and vulnerable adults, including people living with dementia, disability or more short-term needs recovering from injury

Our unique version of care provides a highquality service at a cost less than that of a good care home.

If you live in Lancashire, we are perfectly positioned to provide a carer for you. You can call us on 01254 375023 to arrange a free personalised care consultation. This involves assessing your physical, mental, and personal needs.Then, once we understand your needs in more detail, we will be able to make our recommendations.

What can live-in carers do for me?

You may require assistance with things, like physical tasks or your personal needs if you’re struggling with the day to day.

What is the process?

Care can be two weeks to a much longer term, depending on your requirements.

At Promedica24, we pride ourselves on the continuity of care that we offer. Your primary carer will stay with you for several weeks before they take time off, we will then diligently select an interim carer for you until your primary carer returns.

Regardless of your needs or how long your carer stays with you, we will carry out regular checks to make sure everything is running well and that all your needs are being met.

Live-in care allows you to continue doing just that. Living your life, exactly as you want to do.

24/7 Live-in Care & Companionship at home

An affordable alternative to a Residential Care Home Weekly rates between £695 - £895 Continue to live well and independently in your own home Affordable, high quality, 1-2-1 care and 24/7 support Specialist support - dementia, Parkinson’s, stroke, respite

CALL OUR TEAM ON:

01254 375023 07419 111981 g.derbyshire@promedica24.co.uk www.promedica24careathome.co.uk

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WHEELCHAIRS LTD regain your independence

Established over 35 years

Your Local Mobility Store BLACkPOOL BRANCH 269 TALBOT ROAd, BLACkPOOL fy3 7Az T: 01253 394853 sales@llgwheelchairs.co.uk

oPening Times: monday till friday 9.00am till 5.00pm saturday - 10.00am till 4.00pm sunday - Closed

www.llgwheelchairs.co.uk

3 MONTHS FREE INSURANCE IS INCLUDED WITH EVERY POWERED WHEELCHAIR OR MOBILITY SCOOTER PURCHASED

MOBILITY SCOOTERS

WHEELCHAIRS

RISE & RECLINE CHAIRS

POWERCHAIRS

MOTABILITY PARTNER Can you benefit from Motability?

If you receive the Higher rate Mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance, the war Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement or P.I.P. supplement you can benefit from this worry-free package.

The choice is yours with over 200 products to choose from, ranging from small, boot scooters to large, road legal (class 3) scooters and powered wheelchairs, you can be sure to find the right one for you. Your allowance will then be paid directly to Motability Operations every four weeks, in exchange for your scooter or powered wheelchair. And most of the models available cost less than your four weekly higher rate mobility allowance, which means you get some money back!

It’s the perfect package with Motability, not only do you get the scooter or powered wheelchair of your choice, you get all the support and help you need.

AVAILABLE ASK FOR DETAILS CLOSE BROTHERS RETAIL FINANCE

HEAd OffICE (LEIGH BRANCH) PARSONAGE GARAGE kIRkHALL LANE LEIGH WN7 5RP T: 01942 606668 www.llgwheelchairs.co.uk sales@llgwheelchairs.co.uk oPening Times: monday till friday 9.00am till 5.00pm saturday - 10.00am till 4.00pm sunday - Closed 35

The best products, the best workmanship, the best service at the best prices around!!!

• CONSERVATORIES, LIFESTYLE EXTENSIONS, DOUBLE GLAZING & SO MUCH MORE •

EXTEND YOUR HOME WITH A LIFESTYLE HOME EXTENSION

OFFER 1

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FREE PVC DOOR

£1795

OFFER 6

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FREE

ARCHITECT DRAWINGS & PLANNING APPLICATION IF REQUIRED

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5 Coloured Double Glazed Windows

FREE COMPOSITE DOOR

£2295

OFFER 3

£2595 5 White Triple Glazed Windows

FREE COMPOSITE DOOR FROM FOUNDATIONS TO COMPLETION, BUILT BETWEEN 3-4 WEEKS

OFFER 4

CONSERVATORY 3 X 3 EDWARDIAN STYLE

£7500

WINTER OFFER

CONSERVATORY TOO COOL IN WINTER AND TOO WARM IN SUMMER? USE YOUR CONSERVATORY ALL YEAR ROUND BY REPLACING YOUR OLD ROOF WITH A FULLY INSULATED ONE.

OFFER 5

3 X 3 LEAN TO CONSERVATORY

£7250

Registered Company No. 36136

Insurance Backed Guarantee

COMPLETE WITH FREE UPGRADE TO PILKINGTON SMART GLASS ROOF

If you want the best job, the best service at an affordable price and a FREE no obligation quote call: e: tomadvanced@icloud.com

01772 751589

www.advancedconservatorysystem.co.uk