Stockport & trafford issue 50

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W W W. 5 0 P L U S M A G A Z I N E . C O . U K JANUARY - MARCH 2017

STOCKPORT & TRAFFORD EDITION 50

Arise Sir Rod AS HE EMBARKS ON ANOTHER MAJOR TOUR

PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE TO ENJOY TODAY!

CELEBRATING COLOUR

IN ACTIVE AGEING

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Est.1923

Coach Holidays

2017 BROCHUR OUT NOW E Eastbourne

Isle of Wight

Freephone: 0800 083 9900 Visit us online at www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk

Torquay

Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn, BB6 7SP

IMPERIAL HOTEL POSTCARD.indd 11

Located on the south coast within the historic county of Sussex, lies the elegant seaside resort of Eastbourne. Renowned for its top sunshine records and award winning beaches, Eastbourne is understandably a popular holiday destination for all.

With a sprinkling of high street shops, centrally located, a Victorian pier and a rich history boasting a variety of castles, museums and galleries, Eastbourne is sure to cater for your every need.

Imperial Hotel Located just a stone’s throw away from the promenade and band stand, this grand Victorian hotel is full of character and home to a number of spacious, comfortable bedrooms, all accessible via lifts.

Guests are able to unwind in the relaxing lounge area before an evening meal in the Majestic Restaurant, offering hearty, home cooked food.

Hotel facilities l All rooms are en-suite with telephone, television and hairdryer l Free WiFi in Public areas l Premier rooms available* l Complimentary tea and coffee in all rooms l Waiter service l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Table d’hôte menu l Optional a la carte menu available l Live entertainment most evenings l Ballroom/Dance floor l Two lifts serving all floors l Porterage.

Take a short boat ride across the Solent and discover the Isle of Wight, an island of astounding natural beauty with a variety of attractions to suit all ages.

Located on the south east coast of the island, the traditional seaside resort of Shanklin is home to golden sandy beaches and a quaint collection of shops housed in traditional thatched cottages. It is understandably one of the most popular resorts on the island with plenty to entertain.

Ocean View Hotel Situated in a premier location with an idyllic seaside position, the charming, well-appointed Ocean View Hotel boasts uninterrupted panoramic views across Sandown Bay. The hotel also offers a large sprung dance floor and provides live entertainment most evenings.

Hotel facilities l All rooms are en-suite with telephone, television and hairdryer l Free WiFi in Public areas l Premier and sea views rooms available* l Complimentary tea and coffee in all rooms l Waiter service l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Licensed bar l Table d’hôte menu l Optional a la carte menu available l Live entertainment most evenings l Ballroom/Dance floor l Heated indoor swimming pool l Indoor bowling green, table tennis and snooker room l Lift serving all floors l Porterage.

Please note that on each floor of the hotel, some steps may need to be negotiated.

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19/12/2014 Located in the heart of the English Riviera, Torquay is renowned for its mild climate, award winning sandy beaches and secluded coves and has been a popular holiday destination since the early 19th century.

With its distinctive European atmosphere, sophisticated environment and beautifully varied scenery, Torquay remains a popular holiday destination.

Abbey Lawn Hotel If you’re looking to unwind in style, this elegant Georgian hotel is the place to stay. Located in the grounds of the former Torre Abbey with stunning views of the bay, the Abbey Lawn hotel offers an exceptional standard of comfort throughout.

The hotel comprises superb facilities, including a heated indoor swimming pool and a conservatory lounge overlooking the bay, where guests can relax and enjoy a drink.

Hotel facilities l All rooms are en-suite with telephone, television and hairdryer l Free WiFi in Public areas l Premier and front facing rooms available* l Complimentary tea and coffee in all rooms l Waiter service l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Licensed bar l Table d’hôte menu l Optional a la carte menu available l Live entertainment most evenings l Ballroom/Dance floor l Heated indoor pool l Lift serving all floors l Porterage.

09:58

5 Days from £129 7 Day Tours 2017

5 Day Tours 2017

4 nts dinner, bed & breakfast IMPERIAL OCEAN VIEW

6 nts dinner, bed & breakfast ABBEY LAWN

Sat/Sun Departure

£219

£219

04/05 Mar

-

£219

ABBEY 11/12 Mar £249 £269 IMPERIAL OCEAN£249

IMPERIAL OCEAN VIEW

ABBEY LAWN

12 Mar £219

6 Feb

-

£129

-

13 Feb

-

£129

£129

18 Mar

-

£135

19 Mar £219

£219

-

20 Feb £135

-

-

£139

26 Mar £219

£219

£219

06 Mar £145

£145

£145

02 Apr

£229

£229

£229

13 Mar £149

£149

£149

09 Apr

£249

£249

£249

20 Mar £155

£155

£155

16 Apr

£259

£259

£259

27 Mar £159

£159

£159

23 Apr

£269

£269

£269

27 Feb

-

03 Apr

£165

£165

£165

10 Apr

£175

£175

£175

14 Apr

£179

£179

£179

19 Apr

£185

£185

£185

24 Apr

£189

£189

£189

01 May £199

£199

£199

08 May

£209

£209

-

15 May £219

30 Apr

IMPERIAL OCEAN VIEW

ABBEY LAWN

-

£259

VIEW

- LAWN

18/19 Mar

£259 £259 £279

25/26 Mar

£269 £269 £289

01/02 Apr

£279

£279 £299

08/09 Apr

£289

£289 £309

15/16 Apr

£299

£299 £319

22/23 Apr

£325

£325 £329 £349 £349

£299

£299

£299

07 May £315

£315

£315

29/30 Apr

£349

£359 £359 £359

14 May £325

£325

£325

06/07 May

21 May £335

£335

£335

13/14 May

£369 £369 £369

28 May £345

£345

£345

20/21 May

£379 £379 £379

04 Jun £355

£355

£355

27/28 May

£389 £389 £389

11 Jun £379

£379

£379

03/04 Jun

£399 £399 £399

18 Jun £379

£379

£379

10/11 Jun

£409 £409 £409

17/18 Jun

£409 £409 £409

24/25 Jun

£409 £409 £409

01/02 July

£409 £409 £409

08/09 July

£409 £409 £409

15/16 July

£409 £409 £409

22/23 July

£409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409

£219

£219

22 May £225

-

£225

29 May £229

£229

£229

25 Jun £379

£379

£379

05 Jun £239

£239

-

02 July £379

£379

£379

12 Jun £239

£239

£239

09 July £379

£379

£379

19 Jun £239

£239

-

16 July £379

£379

£379

26 Jun £239

£239

£239

23 July £379

£379

£379

03 July £239

£239

-

30 July £379

£379

£379

10 July

£239

£239

06 Aug £379

£379

£379

-

8 Day Tours 2017

7 nts dinner, bed & breakfast

17 July £239

£239

£239

13 Aug £379

£379

£379

29/30July

24 July £239

-

£239

20 Aug £379

£379

£379

05/06 Aug

£409

£409 £409

£379

12/13 Aug

£409

£409 £409

19/20 Aug

£409

£409 £409

26/27 Aug

£409

£409 £409

02/03 Sept

£389 £389 £389

09/10 Sept

£379 £379 £379

16/17 Sept

£369 £369 £369

23/24 Sept

£359 £359 £359

Imperial Hotel: Supplements per person: Premier Room £20 Ocean View: Supplements per person: Premier Room £30 Front Facing Room: £10 Abbey Lawn : Supplements per person: Premier Room £30 Front Facing Room: £10

27 Aug £379

£379

Only standard rooms available on 7 Day Tours

Your Groups’ Specialist for coach holidays in the UK and Europe

We can tailor make tours to your specific requirements, if you want more information then contact our groups department on 0800 7851025 or email groups@robinsons-holidays.co.uk

With over 90 years of experience in tailor making holidays, we at Robinsons offer a personal service. Whether you need help with part or all of your groups holidays we can lend a hand in organising, booking and everything in-between.

We are flexible in our approach and can offer destinations found in this brochure or we can tailor make to your specification, whether in the UK or Europe. We offer all of our group’s excellent benefits: • 1 FREE place for every 10 paying passengers • Special interest and activity groups catered for • Complete financial security-BCH Bonded

Imperial Hotel Supplements per person: Premier Room - £35 Abbey Lawn Hotel Supplements per person: Premier Room - £50 Front Facing Room - £15 Ocean View Hotel Supplements per person: Premier Room - £50 Sea View Room - £15

The Robinsons Difference Local joining points l No single supplements* l High standard of accommodation l Great choice of menus l Executive coaches with extra legroom l Includes excursions l Friendly staff l Own hotels in great locations l Peace of mind security l Payment in instalments * Robinsons own hotels l

We offer you ...

3 4/6/7/8 nights dinner, bed & breakfast 3 2 included excursions 3 Local pick-up points 3 Service of driver courier

Robinsons Holidays, Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP

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Twittering On WITH TYLER GRUNDY

It seems as though we are in luck. While surfing the realms of Twitter compiling this article for you lucky readers today, I came across some telling statistics.

Now it is not my intention to bore you with mindless numbers and figures, although I have been called a ‘Statto’ numerous times over the years. Just this one will do;

nation’s favorite grandma, as she has been coined, announced her leave as well, Twitter and the nation went into meltdown. Just a note, if my Gran was known to party the night away on the isle of Ibiza, as Mary is known to do, I must admit I am not too sure how I would feel.

As one Twitter user put it and many seemed to agree;

Literally no one is going to watch ‘Paul Hollywood’s Great British Bake Off’.

51% of adults aged between 5564 regularly use social media.

This is according to the Office of National Statistics. So, at the conclusion of this article do not hold back your desire to post a Tweet on a topic of your choosing. Let your voice be heard, after all that is what Twitter is all about.

Anyway, let us get into it.

Paul Hollywood & Mary Berry on the Great British Bake Off

shows. However, viewers have recently been handed a pie to the face.

I imagine it failed to pass the majority of you by, that the BBC had sold the show to Channel 4. The uproar soon followed. And it soon became clear that Channel 4 had purchased a tent and a bread maker. By that, I mean the silver fox Paul Hollywood.

“Breadxit” Undoubtedly, many of you will recognize the two figures above.

Indeed, for many a Brit they have become synonymous with Wednesday evenings. The Great British Bake Off or GBBO as commonly abbreviated (and hash tagged on Twitter) is one of the BBC’s most popular and well-watched

Co-Hosts, the commonly known Mel and Sue, soon after announced they would be departing from the show. I guess you could say the dough was failing to rise for Channel 4. When the

I for one will certainly view with interest the Channel 4 version of the show to see what they can squander together.

If the show does become a dead loss, I will certainly miss 9pm in our house on a Wednesday evening when the cake goes in the oven, having spent the previous hour drooling over bake off wonders.

How to spot a Brit?

It came to my attention that while writing this piece for you, Britain was celebrating the 950th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings. Now, due to my historical background I feel obliged to bring this up. So please do bear with me. In case you did not know, the battle

inside TRAVEL...

SINGLES HOLIDAYS PAGES 12-13

ROD STEWART NEW TOUR 16-17

INTERIORS...

HOW TO GIVE YOUR ROOM THAT CONTEMPORARY LOOK PAGES 21-22

TOM KITCHIN SHARES HIS LOVE OF FAVOURITE SUPPERS PAGES 26-27

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TWITTER was fought between William of Normandy (the invader) against the English King Harold.

Admittedly, I am not here to give you a history lesson, no doubt you already know this. And I am certain, even if I had not told you it was the 950th anniversary then you would know the year. Here lies the essence of how to spot a Brit.

Twitter seems to be in unanimous agreement about this.

Hastings Direct has long been advertising on our television screens with the catchy jingle and memorable phone number. If you are struggling to recall, it is the one with the seagull if I am not mistaken. The jingle goes, 0800… wait for it…1066. The point being calling out 0800, if one would reply with 1066 then you most certainly have found yourself a fellow Brit.

Together Again.

I am sure, all of you will be familiar with the comedic and indeed, genius double act that was Morecambe and Wise. Now for the first time, they stand together again in Blackpool’s Winter Gardens.

The statue that has been unveiled just this month is the first of the two together while the two men, have their own individual statues respectably in Morecambe and Leeds.

Blackpool is really the spiritual home of the pair. They performed numerous times at the seaside resort before their real shoot to fame. Myself being a massive fan of the pair, I feel I should take this opportunity to regale you with my own personal favorite sketch. I think it was the first clip I

saw of the two and hence why it has stuck with me and I still find it hilarious to this day. ‘The Banana Boat song’, I would recommend a quick search on YouTube if you are failing to recall the sketch. A smile and a laugh I can guarantee.

Get yo’ Wellies Out. Glastonbury, the famous British festival has sold out…again.

Now do not get me wrong I understand the buzz of seeing your favorite music act up close and personal…but with Glastonbury it just is not that simple.

Standard tickets for the festival, which holds 135,000 amongst its vast grassy plains, have all been snapped up. Although, many of them will now find their way upon the Internet black market selling for ludicrous amounts of money.

So let us say, you were one of the lucky ones who managed to get tickets. Well currently, not one act has been announced. Oh, I do love a risk taker. Come that faithful weekend in June that band you have always wanted to see and quite possibly just sold half your material belongings for, just to get that Glastonbury golden ticket might not even be there.

Here is the real risk though, relying on the Great British weather to provide the sort of sun and warmth of the likes of Costa Brava over a bunch of fields in Somerset. It very rarely happens. The festival campsite soon becomes a bog. You can keep the bikini and speedos in the draw for this weekend more often than not, a rain mac and a pair of wellies is usually the safest attire.

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HOLIDAYS...

WITH A DIFFERENCE WHEN our children are younger, family holidays fall into very distinct categories – usually at some seaside venue or busy resort with enough to keep young minds and bodies occupied.

As we grow older, though, and our children become independent adults, possibly with families of their own – or as we simply opt to be a little more experimental in our choice of destinations – we start to look further afield at more adventurous and unusual holiday choices.

in Jaipur, Rathambore National Park, Udaipur ad Jodhpur, allowing passengers to experience the sights of India in a relaxed atmosphere.

Exotic India

Or, you can climb aboard the Trans Siberian Express, the Eastern and Oriental Express, the Rocky Mountaineer or, closer to home, enjoy a short journey on the luxurious Venice Simplon Orient Express.

For an exotic adventure, why not consider India by rail? Packed with beautiful landscapes, diverse architecture and amazing people – India truly offers something for everyone.

If the train is not for you, though, and you would rather spend time on the high seas, there are several cruise lines that offer an all-inclusive luxury experience.

The “Palace on Wheels” starts and ends its journey in Delhi and takes

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And if you want to go somewhere different than the Mediterranean on your cruise, experience the splendour of Alaska or the South Pacific.

If you’re wanting to escape the often dreary UK Winter, where better to head than “Down Under” and experience the vibrant cities, beautiful beaches and awesome mountain vistas of Australia and New Zealand?

Accommodation ranges from goodvalue motels and campgrounds to luxurious five-star hotels or lodges.

The Orient or USA? Experience the Orient in Singapore, Hong Kong or Kuala Lumpur, kick back on a South Pacific island or visit San Francisco or LA. All these are possible these days and great destinations, with a great range of first-class airlines available.

Looking for somewhere quite different? Many people favour the Green Season (May/June and November) when the seasons are changing. The land is verdant and the National Parks are quieter, giving you the opportunity to experience the forests, beaches and volcanoes without the crowds.

Far, Far Away?

The Far East has also become a greater attraction to Western travellers with amazing tours available. Vietnam, Laos

TRAVEL and Cambodia are popular for temples, beaches and the inspiring stories of human resilience.

Experience the splendour of Angkor Wat and Siem Reap, the World Heritage site of Luang Prabang, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta.

Vietnam has some gorgeous beaches, too. Winters can be cold in Hanoi but further south the climate is kind throughout the year, although tropical downpours are common. The most popular time to visit is between November and April, with the heaviest rains between June and September.

For a completely different culture, how about a private tour of China? Travel from Beijing and visit the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Great Wall before heading to Datong, Taiyan to marvel at the sandstone statues in the Yungang Caves.

At Pingyao visit the walled Ming and Qing dynasty town before heading on to the Shaloin Temple and Xian to see the famous Terracotta Warriors. Spring and Autumn are generally the favourites times for tours of China, avoiding the harsh Winter and searing Summer heat experienced in some of its regions.

Archaelogical Adventures Closer To Home It is said that travel broadens the mind, and especially when we explore the history and archaeology of the places we visit. The past, like a foreign country, is full of difference and interest. It underlies the character and identity of every destination, and yet it is also the wider story of humankind, and so holds familiarity and relevance for us all. This is why archaeological travel is so fascinating. It unites culture with adventure and adds value and meaning to our travels.

The world’s historic and ancient sites are a ‘wonderbox’ of interesting things, and a veritable ark of profound insights, unsolved mysteries and great discoveries. They are often in beautiful locations too, and visiting them can get us off the beaten track to see more of the country. A useful starting point and source of inspiration are the country profiles by Hidden History Travel who describe the archaeological and historical interest of various travel destinations.

Ancient Greece Ancient Greece, for example, may seem like a distant, unfamiliar place but a tour of the ancient sites can be a profoundly satisfying experience. It’s not just the warm weather and good food; it’s an intellectual and emotional connection, a return to the cradle of our modern European world. A Greek temple, with marble columns rising into a clear blue sky, is an abiding symbol of western civilisation, and it is more than just the architecture that feels familiar; it’s the thoughts and actions of its creators,

the people whose philosophy, science, art and politics laid the foundations of European culture. Well-conducted tours, offered by Hidden History Travel bring out these wider contexts for us all.

It isn’t necessary to be a history buff; holidays are available which bring it all together for you, so you don’t have to do all the planning and research yourself. The best tours have a balance of leisure and interest, and knowledgeable guides who bring the sites to life. As someone once said; “a tour without a guide is like a movie without a soundtrack”.

Everywhere has a story to tell, and the breadth of interest is endless; from simple everyday life to cultural beliefs, and the rise and fall of great civilisations.

Prehistoric Malta On the tiny Mediterranean island of Malta, there are Stone Age temples that predate the pyramids and which were expressions of prehistoric beliefs similar to those held by the builders of England’s famous Stonehenge. Whatever strange rituals were practised at such places, they still fascinate us today as reminders of the bigger picture; the human journey and our continuing attempts to understand life, death and the cosmos. Recent archaeological research has made fascinating inroads into our understanding of the prehistoric world of our ancestors. A great archaeological tour of Malta is available through Hidden History Travel.

The Real Atlantis The physical remains of the past create landscapes of memory that still resonate in our modern minds. Everyone has heard of the myth of Atlantis but how many people have actually visited the most likely site of the original city? Many scholars agree that the Aegean island of Santorini is the very place. This volcanic island erupted around 3500 years ago with devastating effects on the Bronze Age civilisation of the region, including the palaces of Minoan Crete. It is simply amazing to stand today on the rim of that volcanic crater and realise the scale of the event, and marvel at the antiquity of the island’s ancient city, incredibly preserved in ash like a prehistoric Pompeii. Then sail across to Knossos on Crete, home of King Minos and the Minotaur, to discover Europe’s earliest civilisation.

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50 Plus Travel

sponsored by everyone busy. Modern campsites and holiday parks provide entertainment and sports all day long, with evening entertainment too. Some have golf courses, spas and fishing lakes as well.

Standards have dramatically improved since the days of Hi-de-Hi. Comfortable beds, well-equipped kitchens and barbeques often come as standard. And cabins in woodland are rather luxurious as an alternative, you could be sleeping in a stunning treehouse, a few yards away from the main property. Whatever you pick, tents, mobile homes, wooden lodges or apartments, you can have as many properties as the family needs or if you like, all share together!

Skiing

Holidays - with how many members of the family?

By Jennie Carr of Silver Travel Advisor Multi-generational holidays are becoming seriously popular: think grandparents, adult children and grandchildren all travelling together.

And indeed, following the example of The Queen and Prince Philip, with their several great-grandchildren, you might even holiday with four generations, although most of us don’t have Sandringham to accommodate everyone!

No matter, here are some suggestions for you to take a look at if you’d like to go away with your wider family.

Cruises Ships these days are absolutely bursting with activities: ice rinks, cinemas, discos, climbing walls, cookery demonstrations, choirs, running tracks and enough restaurants for every discerning foodie or faddy infant. And that’s before you’ve stepped on shore for the fascinating excursions. We’ve heard of family groups of sixteen people or more taking a Caribbean voyage, with Granny and Grandpa comfortably settled on deck, whilst parents take a bridge class or enjoy a spa session as teenagers sleep in and the little ones have fun at a kids’ club. Then they’d all meet up for lunch or dinner, sharing tales of their day, however it was spent. A cruise can offer a superb

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range of things to do whatever your age: no complaints and no boredom!

Villas Renting a place in the sun, with a pool, offers endless opportunities for spending quality time together. And many larger properties have an annexe or separate floor, which is ideal for teens or grandparents who’d like a bit of privacy.

We all love our families, however getting an hour or two of peace and quiet can be vital, especially at siesta time. Villa companies often provide lovely addons: a cook, who will shop as well (what bliss!), motorboats if you’re near the sea and even a nanny or babysitter for adultonly moments. With a villa, all options are covered: exploring the local area on foot or by car, relaxing by the pool, leisurely sundowners, and trips to the beach in many cases. This is communal living of the easiest kind.

Self-catering We have a long tradition of holidaying in rental properties around the UK and in Europe: you and your family can enjoy the freedom this brings. Mealtimes when you fancy, movies all day if you like and interesting attractions close by to keep

Now, this has to be for more active families, who love the mountains. And it’s true that skiing, once over a certain age, can be tiring, however, with proper preparation and fitness you can enjoy some great times with all ages. And for non-skiers, many resorts are charming places to spend a few days, with iceskating, snow-shoeing and sledging as winter alternatives. A hot chocolate taken outside in sunny, cold, crisp air, surrounded by mountains is a great joy everyone delights in. And cosy evenings, sleepy by the fire, are hugely relaxing.

When it snows, the child in each of us surfaces, for snowball fights and snowman building – perfect bonding moments in a winter wonderland!

Mini Guide If you’re out and about having day trips in Great Britain you might enjoy our mini guide especially for grandparents, filled with suggestions of where to take your little darlings for a treat. From castles to lochs, the National Football Museum to Bekonscot Model Village and Railway or the Harry Potter Studio Tour, there is a wealth of attractions for every member of the family. To get your free copy go to www.silvertraveladvisor.com and type Grandchildren Guide into the search box, on the right hand side.

Factbox Cruise: www.silvertraveladvisor.com and select from a wide range of cruise companies Villas: www.cvvillas.com or call 020 7563 7900 Self-catering Forest Holidays : www.forestholidays.co.uk or call 03330 110495 Skiing: www.inghams.co.uk or call 01483 79 11 11

Door to Door Coach Tours with Ellen Smith Membership No: 10228

TRY to describe the ideal holiday and it’s a fair bet it would start right at your front door and simply whisk you away for a fantastic experience.

Well, at Ellen Smith Coach Tours, that’s exactly what we do.

We’re proud of our efficient door-to-door service that picks you up at your home address at a pre-arranged time in a taxi or small minibus. We take you straight to one of our two meeting points: Birch Services near Heywood or Poplar Services near Lymm, where there’s no hanging around as you’re usually on your way within 15 to 20 minutes.

This is just the start of a memorable holiday or break that’s packed with attention to detail – because we know from experience what works for people, and we want to give them the best.

Our business was started in 1900 in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, so we’ve got a long and distinguished history of providing top-quality, value for money coach holidays. In fact, as managing director Paul Targett says: “We get it right – that’s certainly what our customers tell us, and they choose to come back again and again.”

Ellen Smith Coach Tours wants clients to completely enjoy the experience of their chosen holiday or break – whether it’s to the picturesque Highlands of Scotland or the rugged beauty of Cornwall. We choose the best hotels and inject genuine creative thought into putting together interesting and enjoyable itineraries Your driver will always be very experienced, pleasant and helpful. “Many of our drivers know our regular clients by their first names, which all adds to the family atmosphere,” states Mr Targett.

No need, either, to worry about carrying heavy cases as the vast majority of our hotels offer a porterage service. On your return date, the reverse of your original journey is all in place.

Your taxi is waiting for you at one of the two service stations and you’re usually back through your own front door with a cuppa and feet up to watch “The Chase”!

Our whole holiday experience is worry-free. All our holidays are fully bonded by the Confederation of Passenger Transport Bonding Scheme – a Government-approved consumer protection scheme ensuring your money is protected. We also offer popular “Mature Singles” holidays where all the hotel bedrooms are sole occupancy, offering a brilliant break for the solo traveller.

We also run some excellent Continental coach holidays to wonderful destinations like Lake Como, Lake Garda, Alpine trips and Normandy for the D-Day landing beaches. And, for that touch of extra luxury, we offer Fred Olsen cruises from Liverpool at unbelievable prices, plus a variety of Air, Cruise & Worldwide holidays.

In fact, Ellen Smith Coach Tours is simply all about the best of holidays – brought to your door.

Our coaches are executive standard with toilets, air conditioning and reclining seats. On the journey to your hotel, we tend to avoid motorway services and visit some of the glorious villages, towns and cities dotted around our lovely country.

We always plan to arrive at our destination around 4.30 – in time to give you plenty of opportunity for a quick snooze and to settle in your room before dinner. As we normally only use 3 and 4 star hotels, with the occasional family-run 2 star hotel that we’ve used for many years, you’re in for a comfortable and relaxing stay with the very best in catering.

We also use a range of hotels to suit specific tours. Many of our tours are themed, like “Royal Sandringham and the Sport of Kings” or “An Irish Country House Experience”. All our tours have day excursions at no extra charge, including canal or train journeys or visits to historic castles or country estates.

“We try to showcase the best of what our country has to offer,” added Mr Targett.

Want to know more?

Call on 01706 648126

for a copy of the 2016 brochure – you’ll wonder why you ever went away in your car!

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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 costal 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

10 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

TOUR

10th Feb Mature Singles-Cotswolds

OUT NOW!

www.ellen smith.co.uk Membership No: 10228

HOTEL Holiday Inn Leaminton Spa

13th Feb

Cosy Break Torquay

Headland Hotel

13th Feb

Mystery Tour

??????? Hotel

17th Feb A Cornish Winter Warmer

Coach Tou

rs 2 017 DATE

2017 BROCHURE

D O O R TO DOOR

A SELECTION OF OUR 2017 COACH TOURS

Rosemundy House

20th Feb

Bournemouth

Mayfair Hotel

20th Feb

Eastbourne

Haddon Hall

24th Feb

Llandudno

Marlborough

27th Feb

Paignton

Palace

5th Mar

Discovering Shropshire

Buckatree

6th Mar

Beautiful Lake District

Cumbria Grand

6th Mar

Llandudno

Tynedale

Join our friendly bunch !

Parties, Bingo & Entertainment ???????????????

Cream Tea, Sherry, Wine

Snack lunches, Cream tea and £1 bar £1 bar from 8pm to 11pm ’All Saints’ theme – nearly full!

DAYS

PRICE

5

£249

5 £219 5

£199

5 £229 5

£239

5 £205 4

£199

Super Hotel ‘Cosy Break’ theme 5 £229 Superb Tour!

5

All Inclusive

5 £259

Landlubbers Cruise

5

£239

£299

INTERESTED?

Call our reservations office on 01706 648126 and request a copy of our 2017 brochure. You’ll be surprised at the variations of tours we operate.

Visit our website at www.ellensmith.co.uk Find us on facebook & twitter (searchwww.50plusmagazine.co.uk for ellensmithtours)

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| 11

50 Plus Travel

sponsored by just like you. There’s an extra bonus too – a tour manager who ensures that all the logistical hassles are taken care of and that the group ‘gels’ together.

And then there are local guides, who share their inside knowledge and help bring destinations alive. On sporting trips, coaches are on hand to match up players, so you enjoy your games and improve too. Some of the major coach tour companies organise singles only trips around the UK and Europe too, which provides yet another option!

Beach and hotel holidays

Singles holidays

by J ennie C arr from S ilver T ravel A dvisor

If you’d like to flop and drop, with company when you choose, there is a wide range of places to go, around Europe or beyond. Singles’ specialists, Solos Holidays have an extensive range of places to get away to where the sun shines, the beach is glorious and the pool all yours. Quite often, the hotels they use are exclusively theirs, so everyone is a fellow solo traveller.

And if activities are on offer, you’re free to join in or not. Sometimes a day on the sun lounger is just too tempting. In the UK, Solos Holidays, Warner Leisure Hotels offer hotel breaks with zero or limited supplements. Go on, why not spoil yourself?

Top Tips Singles travelling on holiday can celebrate! You are a fast-growing group of people and the options are getting more plentiful by the month. Tour operators and cruise lines are now vying to bring you the perfect trip. What could be better?

We know it seems daunting when you think about taking your first trip alone – we’ve been in the same shoes.

However, from all reports, once you’ve taken the first brave step, there is no looking back. You might even wonder what took you so long!

Cruises I recently spoke to a single lady in her 60s who told me she loved cruising because it is safe, she knows that the ship is secure and that should anything happen, she’ll be missed. More and more cruise lines are re-fitting or building with single cabins, all just as comfortable as doubles! And what’s more, coffee mornings and activities are organised for those travelling alone, so you can meet others in the same

12 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

situation. At dinner, singles’ dining tables are allocated, so if you’d like to be sociable, you can be. Excursion companions and dancing partners are often available too. So you can cruise around the UK coast, voyage to Antarctica or visit sites around the Mediterranean, comfortable in the certainty that you’ll be included in all the activities and well looked after. Saga Holidays have now started offering river cruises just for singles too!

Escorted tours and activities holidays These are a real joy for the solo traveller. You’re joining a friendly group, all who have a similar interest, whether it be going to historic British houses and gardens, playing tennis, walking on islands, visiting ancient Greek ruins or meeting pandas in China. There really is a holiday for everyone. And interestingly, many tour companies tell us that between a third and a half of everyone travelling this way are holidaying on their own, which means that you’ll meet others

We are frequently asked about single supplements, which can be a barrier to those travelling alone. Several cruise lines, escorted touring companies and activities holiday specialists offer same sex sharing to avoid the supplement.

Just ask when booking, and if no else wants to share, you then have the room to yourself. However, many companies have great offers with no or low supplements, it’s just a question of enquiring. Always be willing to request the best price or the latest deals – you may be surprised at what’s available.

These are sometimes missing from websites and brochures. Ask and you just may receive!

Fact Box: Silver Travel Advisor has produced a useful mini guide for the Solo Silver Traveller, with advice, recommended companies and contact details. To receive your free copy, go to www.silvertraveladvisor.com and type ‘Guide solo’ into the search box, top right hand side. We’ll post a one out to you, or it can be downloaded electronically.

TRAVEL

Travelling through airports by Jennie Carr from Silver Travel Advisor Airports can be heaven or can be hell, so Silver Travel Advisor have teamed up with Your Service Centre Gatwick in partnership with Sky Break, to make life just that little bit easier. You can receive a printed copy of The Silver Travellers’ Guide to Gatwick Airport, free of charge through the post or electronically, by going to www. silvertraveladvisor.com and typing Gatwick guide into the search box, top right hand side.

If you are flying from another UK airport and wish to familiarise yourself with the lie of the land, you can find real maps and terminal diagrams at www. airportguides.co.uk or by visiting the airport’s own website. From Aberdeen to Southend, with many in between, this information can really help you plan your airport experience. And this is particularly helpful if you prefer to use a lift instead of the escalators, or require an accessible toilet. Many special features of the airports are

clearly marked so when you do arrive, you can confidently get to where you need to go. And should you be spending time in transit, it’s a good idea to take a look at the facilities at this airport too.

It’s always worth remembering that you are entitled to special assistance, should you need it, from the door of the airport to the foot of the aircraft steps, and this should be provided by the airport. You can call well in advance to advise of your mobility requirements, talk to the airline or travel agent if you can’t find the airport number on line. You might also decide to take advantage of a ‘Meet and Assist’ service which will make certain you are well looked after, on arrival and departure.

medication in your suitcase for the hold, so you have extra in case of an emergency. And remember not to exceed the maximum of 100ml for any liquids otherwise they will be confiscated as you pass through security, which would not be a good start to your journey.

Should you need to take medication in your hand luggage, it’s worth having a doctor’s letter explaining what this is and what it is for so there is no misunderstanding in a foreign country. It is also worth packing spare

And our absolute top tip, is to leave yourself plenty of time to clear security and the find the departure gate. Having an extra 20 minutes for a cup of tea is so much better than getting stressed whilst you rush through the terminal.

· · · · ·

· · ·

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| 13

Superb Seaside Holidays Coach SELF-DRIVE & COACH INCLUSIVE BREAKS

nclusive £139 holidays GREAT VALUE 5 DAY HALF BOARD BREAKS

from

per person

When it comes to inviting, relaxing breaks in the south, we have the ideal holiday for you.

Whether you’re after family-friendly holidays, a romantic getaway or a group break with like-minded people, our eight hotels cover the nation’s finest locations. From the popular beaches of Cornwall to the cosy Isle of Wight, there’s something for everyone.

have our own fleet of executive Our coach inclusive option allows guests across the UK to travel in ches that usoffer totheoffer comfort, while enables our self-drive holidays freedom of having your own car. el from a selection of pick up Every break includes: nts across the UK. • Return coach travel (self-drive option available) • Comfy en suite accommodation

vehicle features air conditioning and on board • Breakfast & 3-course evening meal o make your journey as comfortable as possible.

• Live nightly entertainment also boast friendly drivers who will warmly greet elp you settle into your pre-allotted seat and let Certificate of Excellence Awards now of any planned comfort breaks.

We aim to We are proud to announce that five of our group – The Barrowfield, Devonshire,depending Daish’s, Bournemouth ou to your hotel between 3-5pm, on Sands and Claremont Hotels – have been awarded the coveted TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2016. ngth of the journey.

Seven fabulous locations, eight great hotels.

Every break includes: Isle of Wight

Torquay

Bournemouth

Eastbourne

• Return coach travel (self-drive option • Comfy en suite accommodation Request your new 2016/2017 brochure now!

Daish’s Hotel

Devonshire Hotel

Bournemouth Sands Claremont Hotel • Breakfast & 3-courseTheevening meal

Introducing Daish’s – New pickups in your area: Manchester, Blackburn, Bolton, Burnley, Stockport.

Don’t miss these coach inclusive breaks!

Local pick up points make it easy to get away.

DATE

HOTEL

DAYS PRICE

DATE

HOTEL

JANUARY

DAYS PRICE

MARCH (continued)

08

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

5

£144

16

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

5

£179

25

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

5

£139

20

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

5

£169

29

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

5

£144

25

Russell Hotel – Weymouth

5

£179

30

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

£144

5

£179

APRIL 15

FEBRUARY

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

03

Hotel Prince Regent – Weymouth

5

£169

04

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

5

£154

04

Russell Hotel – Weymouth

5

£204

13

Russell Hotel – Weymouth

5

£154

25

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

5

£209

MAY

MARCH

JUNE

10

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

5

£169

03

Hotel Prince Regent – Weymouth

5

£244

11

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

£199

04

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

5

£224

15

Hotel Prince Regent – Weymouth

5

£194

09

Somerset Hotel – Llandudno

5

£264

Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a Standard Room. Supplements apply on twin/ double rooms with sole occupancy. Optional local excursions can be booked at the hotel. Many more coach or self-drive holiday dates available in 2016. If you would prefer to self-drive, deduct £20 per person from prices shown. All offers are subject to availability and standard terms and conditions (see brochure or website for T&C’s).

Llandudno

Newquay

Weymouth

Weymouth

n available)

Call 01202 638840 or visit daishs.com quote 50PlusMC facebook.com/daishs

Somerset Hotel

Barrowfield Hotel

Hotel Prince Regent

Russell Hotel

@daishs_holidays

Sir

Rod Stewart

THAT rich raspy voice, the little red rooster haircut and the cheeky grin – you immediately know it’s Rod Stewart. The enduringly popular singer at 71 is still pulling in the crowds, the hits and the accolades.

In fact, he’s just been knighted!

16 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW Sir Rod is in the middle of of a major sellout national tour that starts and finishes at the Liverpool Echo Arena and takes in major venues from Belfast to Birmingham, including London’s O2 Arena. And if you thought that decades of touring had made him jaded, you’d be wrong.

“What a great line-up of venues!” he stated. “These are some of my favourite buildings in my favourite cities. “I give you fair warning – fasten your seat belts.

I’ma pulling out all the stops!”

It’s fair to say, though, that the singer’s career has always involved pulling out all the stops.

He was born in Highgate, London, the youngest of five children of a Scottish father. Young Rod had a happy childhood; there was a household interest in football and it spawned a love of the game, and a love of Scottish football specifically, that has been a hallmark of Rod’s life.

The following year was pivotal in his career. The Faces released their second album, Long Player, which did better than the first, and Rod released his third solo album, Every Picture Tells A Story, which made him a household name.

The track Reason to Believe was taken from the album and became a minor hit in both counties but when DJs started playing the B side, Maggie May, the fun really started. It became No.1 in both the UK and the US. By the time Rod released his fourth solo album, it looked like his time with the Faces was coming to a close and he later moved to America.

In the intervening years since those early heady years, his music has evolved much like the man himself and his hits are equally legends.

As fate would have it, along came the Small Faces and at the same time, Rod signed a solo record contract.

The Faces, as they became, built a solid fan base in the UK and America, releasing an album in 1970. In the meantime, Rod released his second solo album, Gasoline Alley, and supported it with an American tour.

His love life has been almost as famous as his music, and certainly as flamboyant as his appearance. He has been married three times, previously to Alana Stewart and Rachel Hunter, and is currently married to Penny Lancaster. He has eight children.

“I think it’s absolutely marvellous being famous. I love it. I like walking down the street and being recognised. I don’t go out of my way to be recognised.”

Fortunately, music was another love in his life and he was influenced by top soul singers then like Otis Redding and Sam Cook. This was the early ‘60s and pop music was sweeping the nation. Rod joined Birmingham-based rhythm and blues group Jimmy Powell and the Five Dimensions and toured the UK.

Early in 1966, the group disbanded and Rod joined Shotgun Express, before becoming a member of better known the Jeff Back Group. This heralded a rise to stardom and where he honed his style as a dynamic, sexy lead singer. Hit records followed but, sadly, the group began to fall apart.

Rod recognises that people have certain sartorial expectations of him. As he commented: “I don’t think people expect Bruce Springsteen to come out in a pink satin jacket but Rod Stewart they do. And I like doing it, I don’t wear it just because I think I have to. I’m a very flamboyant person.”

He has never shrunk from publicity, but never particularly courted it, either. His philosophy on this is simple: “I don’t know anybody that doesn’t like being famous in the first place.

He was talented in the sport, too, and had trials at Brentford FC, in the Third Division at the time, but he was never signed.

Back in London again, he then joined Long John Baldry’s band, the Hoochie Coochie Men, which later became Steampacket and toured as support for The Rolling Stones and the Walker Brothers.

Mod clothes to the tight tartan trousers and often eye-popping fashions that helped establish his sense of style.

That Scottish heritage also makes him canny about cash. “I don’t mind buying one round of drinks,” he stated, “but I am b****y well not going to buy another.

“I’m a very flamboyant person.”

The days of raw rock like Do Ya Think I’m Sexy? gave way to a smoother, very different repertoire and in the early 2000s he released a series of successful albums interpreting the Great American Songbook.

In spite of changes in musical fashion, Rod has always had his fans and been a major star, probably because he has been able to adapt. And it’s worked - he’s sold more than 200 million records worldwide and is viewed as being able to sing virtually any type of song.

He has always been a snazzy and contemporary dresser, from his early trademark upright hairdo - kept in place by hairspray and determination - and his

“I don’t miss a penny. I get a daily statement about where every penny is going and every investment. I wouldn’t say I worry about money, but you never know what’s around the corner.

“I worry more about my children’s views on money sometimes. They’ve grown up privileged and it’s an ongoing battle they know the price of everything and the value of nothing.”

His great, deserved success might have meant a lessening of his enthusiasm for getting onstage. But, as the tickets leap from the box-office for this latest tour, From Gasoline Alley to Another Country – the title of his latest album - Rod is as enthusiastic as ever about performing for the fans, who can expect plenty of his chart-toppers.

Generously, though, while he is always honest about his talent, he insists that he is not the main man.

“Elvis was the king,” he stated. “No doubt about it. People like myself, Mick Jagger and all the others only followed in his footsteps.”

For more details about Rod Stewart’s latest tour go to www.rodstewart.com/events WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 17

Plan for your future… …To enjoy today!

When you have spent all your life taking care of your loved ones the last thing you want to worry about is leaving them in financial difficulties.

Our resident Wills expert, Christine Thornley from Gorvins Solicitors, recently spoke to us to explain how their bespoke over 50’s packages are designed to meet the demands and needs of people aged 50 + who want to protect themselves and their loved ones during their lifetime and when they die.

18 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

There are many ways you can plan for the future for you and your family and we often get asked ‘What are my options to help my family?’ ‘How can I ensure my loved ones are protected?’ and ‘Is it simple to do?’

The answer is yes and by using a professional solicitor you can rest assured you have planned properly for your and their futures.

So what are your options? ۥ Making a Will: the staple to any effective future planning. Every person with assets and/or family should have a valid Will yet a staggering 2/3 people have still not made one.

A Will is a powerful, legal document enabling you to let those who you

Protecting Investment &

love and care about benefit from your Declaration of Trust estate. It also allows you to build trusts into it to children, Some parents andsafeguard grandparents are very grandchildren others and can keen to help theirand children make their way be used to minimise inheritance tax in life, not least to get them out of the charges. family home before they celebrate their 40th birthday! However, not everyone is in

• Power of Attorney: is arguably a position where they are able to just give the most important document you will away thousands of pounds. For some, they ever make. The lifeblood of planning are happy to provide a financial contribution for your future. A power of attorney so long as this is treated as an investment, will not only give you peace of mind which they can get back if they need the that, should anything happen to you, cash in or perhaps once their you willthe befuture, looked after and your offspringwill arebe better off with financially no affairs dealt but itand also longer need assistance.

When it comes to removes some of the stress from your property, wayisofalready doing this is adding family atone what a difficult time. your name to the title register for the house that is being purchased by the offspring.

Think of a Power of Attorney as the most document Parentsimportant have to beinsurance aware, however, if they you can have; most people don’t already own a property, then adding your realise that if you lose the ability to name to the title register of another home make financial or welfare decisions will mean that you incur the additional 3% for yourself, due to a disease such as of Stamp Duty Land Tax charge, potentially dementia or Alzheimers, your partner

adding thousands of pounds to your

having it paid back in the future.

conveyancing or family do bill. not automatically have

job to make the process easy and straightforward.

You should however bear in mind that, if Yes, it may of take a is bitput ofinplanning a declaration trust place, thenow!

Yes, you think youascan put off monies willmay not be treated a gift to ityour until a later date!

And Yes, you may children, and therefore will not be a ‘PET’ think it will be upsetting to discuss for inheritance tax planning purposes. This such issues with your family, but what is because you have not given the monies can be done in a matter of hours now, away – they are effectively just on loan – and can save you time, effort and stress they still belong to you, so the value of your later down the line. estate will not be reduced for inheritance tax With 2017 upon us, now is the time purposes. to plan for your future so that you can enjoy and make the most of today with your family, friends and loved ones.

the right to make decisions on your behalf.aIfDeclaration you fail toofplan you Making Trustahead is a way to will have no say at all in who helps protect your interest in the property, without with your finances welfare. incurring additional taxand charges, and it can FRIENDS, haveFAMILY a two-foldMEMBERS, benefit: SPOUSES, PARTNERS AND CIVIL PARTNERS ARE ALL returned to the donor when the property EXAMPLES OF INDIVIDUALS is sold.

WHO CAN BE CHOSEN.

1. The sum of money provided will be

2. is safeguarded from making • Money Inheritance Tax Planning: the its

way to way the other partner if it was Tax sensible to plan.

Inheritance originally used to help a couple the planning can seem like a long,onto drawn and but theiritrelationship outmarket process, really doesn’t subsequently down. have to be. By breaks speaking to a solicitor about the exemptions and reliefs that available, easilyand save Aare Declaration of you Trustcan is flexible a you and your family time and money. great way to protect your money which Of course there are other to also has additional benefits asways mentioned plan for the future including trusts above. Helping your children onto the for children and other vulnerable property ladder doesn’t have to be a one relatives, funeral plans and way street out of your bank account. It’s succession planning and it is our more than possible to see this money as

Gorvins & Estate Planning discuss Power call of ToTospeak toaTasoula Attorney or any aspect 0161 930 5117 or e-mailof lifetime planning contact actonit@gorvins.com Christine Thornley on

0161 930 e-mail We will give you5117; the precise legal

willsteam@gorvins.com advice you need to be able to protect or money visit our your and website order your estate as www.gorvins.com efficiently and effectively as possible.

an investment, and have the possibility of

The Experts in Wills, Trusts & Probate Give you and your family total peace of mind

Making a Will

Lasting Power of Attorney

Court of Protection

Trusts

Deputyships

Inheritance Tax

Estate Administration

Elderly Care

Probate

Planning for your future and ensuring your family are protected in the way you want is simple and hassle free with our specialist team of qualified solicitors.

Chat with us to discuss your needs; whether it’s here at our offices or in the comfort of your own home, we can help you with:

•P

L ANNING F

FUTURE

•

O

UR

• OR

•Y

ACT O N

IT

Act On It Today and contact us on 0161 930 5117 or e-mail actonit@gorvins.com www.gorvins.com/act-on-it

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| 19

HOME right when items arrive in the post,” she concludes. “Shop local – you can see everything yourself and still get plenty of bargains.”

Sam Ablard from Brand Interiors knows the wisdom of this advice. The company has 10 stores across the North-west of England selling furniture from famous high street names at discounted prices.

This market also allows them to monitor the latest trends and styles, and Sam reports that the key trend developing this season is an uplift in retro styles.

“These are from periods like the 1920s, ‘30s and ‘70s,” she states. “Choosing a statement piece from one of these eras can totally change the look of a room.”

If you are updating your home interior, Sam suggests one clever way –

How to give your home that contemporary look WHENEVER we see those posh glossy magazines showing upmarket homes and interiors or watch TV programmes featuring fabulous houses most of us wonder “how can I give my home that contemporary look?”

The same principle applies to wallpaper. “You don’t need to invest a fortune to get wallpaper for a feature wall,” she says. “But good wallpaper often comes in wider sizes than the average roll which means it will have fewer joins and look better overall.

Actually adapting the latest home interior ideas when you’re working on a realistic budget is not as impossible as it might first appear.

And it’s completely possible to create a new look for your home to bring it completely up to date.

“The average wallpaper lasts around four years in most homes before you want to replace it but really good wallpaper is still there in 10 years time, and you will probably still like the way it looks.”

As interior designer Allyson Houghton of Ideas Interior explains: “There are always alternative ways and tricks to get the style you want.”

Unusually, though, sometimes buying bespoke rather than opting for readymade chain-store items can work out cheaper. “For example, if you want gorgeous pelmets and drapes for your home, you may well be better off getting them made than buying them off the shelf,” adds Allyson. “They will fit better and last much longer, and you will be getting exactly the design you want.”

Shop around for smaller items of furniture like bedside tables. “You can pick up cheaper copies in high street stores,” she says. The same applies to cut-glass drawer and door handles.

“Often, just changing the handles on furniture or buying new window poles can update the room. “Clearance light fittings can be painted or sprayed, and you can add diamantes or beads on lampshades. Also, if you have throws on furniture already, invest in some really smart cushion covers and trim the existing throws with the same material.”

While it’s always possible to get bargains on the internet, Allyson advises that it’s always best “to see and feel” soft furnishing items in particular.

“Colours and textures aren’t always

“Add an oversized mirror – it creates a statement and enhances the light in your room.”

And she points to one range, Gallery Direct’s, fresh and exciting new range of accent mirrors “that will transform any room into a 1920s dance hall.”

Other bang on trend ideas that can be replicated at home include turning alcoves in your lounge or living room into stylish additions. While made-tomeasure bookcases installed either side of a fireplace in a traditional lounge will really enhance it, you could instead group pictures on shelves for an elegant display.

Tuck away the TV, music system and other media in an alcove to add to available space and integrate them with modern cube units or fitted cabinets.

And if you have an alcove space in your home-office, they’re a great place for built-in cupboards for your files and stationery.

Ultra Efficient Electric Heating; Your Choice, Your Style Sunflow are committed to manufacturing electric heating systems that are energy efficient, clean, safe and reliable, specifically designed and engineered to maximise thermal comfort in British homes, perfect for the UK climate. With no servicing or maintenance costs and installed with a

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 21

HOME genuine UK Manufacturer backed guarantee, they are a great investment which will perform well for years to come.

And if that’s not enough, at Sunflow they also believe that when choosing your heating system, you should have choice like everything else in your home.

The Sunflow range of InvincibleTM electric heaters are made to order, giving them the opportunity to build unique designs that meet their customer’s exact specifications, making the range of shapes and sizes unlimited. They are ideal for large or small rooms, conservatories and bathrooms or even where space is restricted.

Their heaters also deliver on style, so they can offer a wide choice of colours that can be easily matched to your décor and will tastefully complement any room in your home.

With accurate individual room control, you have the choice of either a manual dial or wall thermostat programmer and with the recent addition of our high tech SMART MultiZone wireless system, you can now control your heating and temperature from your PC, laptop, tablet or Android Handset.

Kitchens are often the heart of the home so if you’re looking to update yours consider making it into a kitchen-diner.

Providing the space to cook, eat and entertain together as a family or with friends makes for a more relaxing atmosphere.

In some homes, taking out a downstairs wall frees up muchneeded kitchen space to provide open-plan layouts and a place to socialise all year round.

Cover an existing headboard in fabric to match curtains to update the room.

Go for a more streamlined look in the kitchen with handleless kitchen units and stainless steel worktops. Add clever lighting for a touch of drama and colourful chairs to soften a contemporary colours-scheme. Consider deep blues, white and grey in the kitchen and add low-hung pendant lighting over a central island.

Bathrooms can be updated and improved with more efficient use of space. In a small bathroom, use neutral colours that run along the floor, up the walls and even continue onto the bath and toilet to give a feeling of never-ending space.

Add depth to a narrow bathroom by creating a feature wall with one block colour or exposed brick. Dark colours can work well in a bathroom and can add an elegant and opulent touch.

Consider adding a skylight to open up your bathroom and create a light and airy space. White furnishings may help to bounce light around this room, allowing you to inject more personality with the addition of interesting accessories.

Lighting is particularly important here, too, especially next to mirrors.

Tailored to suit your home and lifestyle Sunflow InvincibleTM Heaters Engineered and Manufactured in the UK

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Call 01244 555040

sunflownorth.co.uk 22 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

For a retro look in your bathroom, try hanging clever storage areas on walls and add pale pastel hues to bring the bathroom to life. If you prefer a hotel-style bathroom, try a black and white colour-scheme inter-mingled with soft grey for a fresh and modern style. Remember, too, that wet rooms are currently very popular and if you’ve got the space they can be a boon to easier living.

The latest looks in bedrooms include large patterns on the walls, even if you have a small bedroom. Invest in good bed linen in the sales to make your bed look extra-special, and look out for headboards which can really tie a bedroom together. Cover an existing headboard in fabric to match curtains to update the room. * For more information go to: www.ideasinterior.co.uk www.brandinteriors.co.uk www.sunflownorth.co.uk

One stop shop, tiles and flooring available, everything under one roof • Massive choice of traditional or modern • Fabulous showroom with 60 displays open 7 days

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No one knows what the future holds and our circumstances change throughout our lives. There’s always a good reason to make or update your Will but, surprisingly, only a third of adults who die in Britain are covered by one. Norma Young, Legacy Giving Officer at St Ann’s Hospice, explains why making a Will is so important.

“It’s human nature to put off thinking about dying and what will happen after we’ve gone. But making a Will is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your family and loved ones, and it’s actually a really simple process.

Many people don’t know that if you die without a Will, your family and loved ones won’t be able to decide what happens to your estate. This will be decided by the law according to certain rules, called the rules of intestacy. That means that the people you would want to leave an inheritance to may not receive anything, and it can make a difficult time even harder for them. If you live with your partner and you’re not married, things can get even more complicated.

Having a Will makes sure that you are the one who decides what happens to your personal possessions, and it can prevent disagreement about who inherits what from your estate.

But it’s not just about dividing up your estate. Making a Will also means that it’s you, not the courts, who decides who will look after your children, what will happen if you own a business, what sort of funeral you’ll have, how you can avoid or reduce inheritance tax, and how you can continue to support any charities that are important to you.

St Ann’s Hospice runs a Will Week every year, and it’s a brilliant opportunity to get your affairs in order and gain peace of mind.

Around 40 local solicitors are taking part this year, and they have very kindly agreed not to charge you their usual fee. Instead, they’re asking you to make a donation to St Ann’s, a local charity providing care for people across Greater Manchester who are affected by lifelimiting illnesses, as well as their families, loved ones and carers.”

John and Joyce Bradshaw made their Will during Will Week last year. Joyce says, “We hadn’t made a Will before. I’d always said we should, but John wasn’t sure we needed to. He thought that as we have two sons, anything we left would be split between them, but I wanted to have everything in order. When we heard about the St Ann’s Will Week and saw that there was a solicitor very local to us taking part, we decided to book an appointment. St Ann’s is important to us as they have cared for several of our friends over the last few years.

“The solicitor was really lovely, and the process was very easy. The paperwork was simple, not daunting at all. Now our Will is written, we have peace of mind, knowing that our wishes will be carried out. Making our Will during Will Week and giving a donation to St Ann’s instead of paying the solicitor means that we’ve also helped the hospice.”

The St Ann’s Hospice Will Week is 6th – 10th March 2017, and it’s really easy to take part.

Please get in touch with us on 0161 498 2099 or legacies@sah.org.uk. We’ll send you a pack, including a list of participating solicitors near you. Simply make an appointment with your chosen one, complete the donation envelope we’ll also send you, and take it along to your meeting. The solicitors are giving up their time to support us, and they’d like you to give a donation equal to their normal charges for making a Will. Every donation helps us to continue providing our services, free of charge, to local patients and their loved ones.

TOM KiTCHiN - KiTCHiN SUPPERS This is one of my favourite Sunday roasts. You can’t get much more British than a leg of lamb, but serving it in this way gives a certain Mediterranean feel and flavour, which makes the dish seem light and fresh. Infusing the lamb with flavourings like rosemary and fennel seeds makes it deliciously tasty.

Most side dishes work with lamb, so choose your vegetables according to the season. You might also like to serve new potatoes alongside here, or a potato gratin.

ROASTED LEG OF LAMB WITH RATATOUILLE-STUFFED TOMATOES SERVES 4 1.2kg boned and rolled leg of lamb 5 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped handful of rosemary sprigs, leaves only, roughly chopped 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon fennel seeds sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 250ml lamb stock or chicken stock 50g butter STUFFED TOMATOES 4 large tomatoes on the vine olive oil for cooking 1 onion, peeled and diced 3 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped 1 tablespoon dried herbs de Provence 1 courgette, diced 1 aubergine, diced 1 red pepper, cored, deseeded and diced

Place the lamb on a board. In a bowl, mix together the garlic, rosemary, cumin and fennel seeds. Using a sharp knife, pierce little slits all over the surface of the lamb. Using your fingers, push the rosemary and spice mixture into the cuts. Season the meat with salt and pepper. Put to one side.

To prepare the tomatoes, snip them off the vine, but leave the stalks intact. Cut a slice off the top off the tomatoes, removing about a quarter, and reserve these lids. Using a teaspoon, carefully scoop out the juice and seeds from inside, leaving the shells intact; set aside, along with the tops.

For the ratatouille stuffing, heat a heavy-based saucepan over a medium heat and add a little olive oil. Add the onion and cook slowly for 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and dried herbs.

Now turn up the heat and add the courgette, aubergine and some salt and pepper. Cook, stirring often, for a further 3–4 minutes; you may need to add more olive oil as the aubergine

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will absorb quite a lot. Add the red pepper and cook for a further 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check the seasoning and take off the heat.

To cook the lamb, heat the oven to 180°C/Gas 4. Heat a heavy-based ovenproof pan over a medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. Add the lamb joint and colour on all sides, allowing 3–4 minutes. Transfer to the oven and roast for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, fill the tomatoes with the ratatouille and put the lids back on. Stand the stuffed tomatoes in a small roasting tray. Add the stock, butter and a drizzle of olive oil to the tray.

When the meat has been roasting for 15 minutes, turn the setting down to 160°C/Gas 3 and put the stuffed tomatoes into the oven. Roast the meat for a further 20 minutes, along with the tomatoes, basting these with the pan juices from time to time.

Rest the lamb in a warm place for 10 minutes. Slice the meat and serve with the stuffed tomatoes, spooning over all the pan juices.

FOOD & DRINK SMOKED SALMON & SPINACH LASAGNE This comforting pasta bake is easy to prepare and always popular. The recipe is based on a Scandinavian dish that my wife Michaela has been making for years. It’s absolutely delicious and has the added advantage that it can be prepared in advance, ready to bake and serve when required.

Your perfect recipe needs top quality ingredients...

Serves 4–6 Béchamel sauce 75g butter 75g plain flour 850ml milk sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Lasagne 25g butter 1 leek, trimmed, washed and cut into strips 400g baby spinach 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed 400g smoked salmon 300g Cheddar, grated 8–10 lasagne sheets 4 dill sprigs, roughly chopped, to garnish

Heat the oven to 180°C/Gas 4. To make the béchamel sauce, melt the butter in a heavy-based saucepan, stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly stir in the milk and cook at a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

For the lasagne, melt half the butter in a heavy-based pan over a medium-low heat. Add the leek strips, season with salt and pepper and sweat gently for 2–3 minutes. Add the spinach leaves, a handful at a time, along with the garlic and cook for another minute or two. Drain off the excess liquid.

Use the rest of the butter to grease a large square or rectangular ovenproof dish. Cut the smoked salmon into small pieces, roughly 2cm square.

Kitchin Suppers by Tom Kitchin (Quadrille £12.99) Photography: Laura Edwards

Bury Market, winner of BBC Radio 4’s Food and Farming Awards (Best Food Market) really has it all.

With over 350 stalls open every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday you will find our friendly traders sell everything you need for making delicious home-cooked meals.

Great quality produce at great value prices, brought fresh to market every day!

Bury Market Tel: 0161 253 6520

: @BuryMarket

Email: burymarkets@bury.gov.uk Web: www.burymarket.com

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OUT & ABOUT

Out & About A guide to the amazing events in and around Stockport for 2017

February 1st Feb - 7.30pm

Music - The Carpenters Story

The award-winning Carpenters Story celebrates the music of one of the most successful pop duos in music history, Richard & Karen Carpenter.

The Plaza, Stockport, stockportplaza.co.uk/whats-on

the world’s most prestigious mountain film festival.

The Plaza, Stockport, stockportplaza.co.uk/whats-on 4th Feb - 10am

2nd Feb - 7pm

Drama - NT Live Screening: Amadeus (Cert. 12A)

Lucian Msamati plays Salieri in Peter Shaffer’s iconic play, broadcast live from the National Theatre, and with live orchestral accompaniment by Southbank Sinfonia.

The Plaza, Stockport, stockportplaza.co.uk/whats-on 4th Feb - 7.30pm

Film - Banff Mountain Film Festival Cert 12A

Experience an evening of extraordinary short films from

Family / Music - Organ Coffee Morning

Join us for this free to attend concert from 10am till 1pm and relax in the wonderful surroundings of Stockport’s Art Deco gem.

The Plaza, Stockport, stockportplaza.co.uk/whats-on 9th Feb - 7.30pm

Comedy / Drama - Seriously Dead Suitable for Ages 16+

One ordinary day in the quiet little town of Olwinskirk a chain of extraordinary events began to take place bringing the lives of Betty, Albert, Billy and the local undertaker, Tristan de Winter to an uncomfortable crossroads.

The Plaza, Stockport, stockportplaza.co.uk/whats-on 10th Feb - 7pm

Dance - Dance Extravaganza

Dance Extravaganza offer the perfect evening of family entertainment for everyone to enjoy.

The Plaza, Stockport, stockportplaza.co.uk/whats-on 11th Feb - 7.30pm

Music - The Style Councillors

Hope Green

With Swirling Hammond Organ and a classic horn section, The Style Councillors are as close as it gets to actually being there.

The Plaza, Stockport, stockportplaza.co.uk/whats-on

Residential Home Hope Green Residential Home in Adlington, on the outskirts of Poynton, have now opened a new 11 bedroom extension to their existing residence. The 5 star luxury accommodation includes en-suite bedrooms and sumptuous communal areas. With 1st class care, Hope Green Residential Home can offer you the best of everything for your loved ones.

Hope Green is part of Maria Mallaband Care Group, one of the UK’s leading care home providers with homes throughout the UK and Ireland.

For more details, call in for a coffee and a chat.

Hope Green Residential Home

London Road, Adlington, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 4NJ T: 01625 242264 E: hopegreen@mmcg.co.uk

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17th Feb - 7.30 pm

Film / Music - Sing-A-Long-A Grease

The sing along screening of the classic film starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John is brought to you by the producers of Sing-a-Long-a Sound of Music.

The Plaza, Stockport, stockportplaza.co.uk/whats-on

Bury Market has a well deserved reputation for friendly service, fantastic produce and great value.

Located off J2 of the M66 and with over 350 stalls open every Full Market Day it’s easy to find and even easier to enjoy!

19th Feb - 7pm

Film - An Evening with a Hollywood Legend: World Premier of ‘Jayne Mansfield: From Hollywood to Yorkshire’

If you love your Hollywood blondes and want a night out at the movies as it used to be book now for the pinkest , campest and most fun event of the year!

The Plaza, Stockport, stockportplaza.co.uk/whats-on 23th Feb - 7.30pm

Film - BBC Radio Manchester’s Big Night Out - Mamma Mia - Cert PG

Join your BBC Radio Manchester favourite presenters ALISON BUTTERWORTH, BECKY WANT & CHELSEA NORRIS in a FREE to attend BBC RADIO MANCHESTER BIG NIGHT OUT at The Plaza with a screening of the much loved box office smash hit film MAMMA MIA (Cert PG) introduced by our dynamic trio!

The Plaza, Stockport, stockportplaza.co.uk/whats-on 24th Feb - 9pm

Music - EBI: Masterpiece of The World Tour

On February 24th, 2016 The Legend returns to Manchester for an Unforgettable Performance! Don’t miss the Biggest Event of the Year!

The Plaza, Stockport, stockportplaza.co.uk/whats-on

March

Bury Town Centre is also home to the Fusilier Museum, East Lancashire Railway, Bury Transport Museum and Bury Art Gallery.

5th Mar - 4pm

Family / Music - The Green Room: Everything Stops for Springtime Tea

Join us as we head into the wonderful season of Spring for the first of this year’s popular fundraising afternoon teas served by our famous team of Plazarettes.

The Plaza, Stockport, stockportplaza.co.uk/whats-on 11th Mar - 4pm

Film - Trainspotting (1996 release) - Cert 18

A wild, freeform, Rabelaisian trip though the darkest recesses of Edinburgh low-life, focusing on Mark Renton and his attempts to give up his heroin habit, and how the latter affects his relationship with family and friends.

The Plaza, Stockport, stockportplaza.co.uk/whats-on 11th Mar - 7.30pm

Film - T2 Trainspotting (2017 release) - Cert 18 (TBC)

First there was an opportunity... then there was a betrayal. Twenty years have gone by. Much has changed but just as much remains the same.

The Plaza, Stockport, stockportplaza.co.uk/whats-on

Bury Market Hall: Open every day except Sunday Full Markets Open: Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays “Winner National Coach Tourism Awards” Coach Friendly Shopping Destination of the Year “Winner NABMA’s” Best Market Attraction

Bury Market Management: Tel: 0161 253 6520 Email: burymarkets@bury.gov.uk Web: www.burymarket.com : @BuryMarket

: BuryMarket

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OUT & ABOUT

AROUND STOCKPORT Event City

1st - 2nd Apr

4th Feb - 5th March

Event - The Northern Angling Show

Family - Rode Hall Snowdrop Walks

Join us for our biggest show to

Experience one of the UK’s finest

date as we move into a 16,000

Snowdrop Walks at Rode Hall &

sqm arena featuring over 140

Gardens in Cheshire to mark the

exhibitors! We have stacks of new

start of spring. A beautiful end-of-

brands and features including

winter walk for all the family with a

some major manufacturers that we

wonderfully diverse landscape and

know will be very popular!

over 70 varieties of snowdrops.

As usual the main stages will

Walk along paths amidst carpets

provide the perfect platforms

of white flowers on an enchanting

for the biggest anglers of the

mile-long route (with

From the 10th to the 26th

sport to share their experiences,

options for longer or shorter

February, the world’s most

knowledge and top tips, an

walks). Take in the wild beauty of

famous circus will literally perform

opportunity that cannot be missed!

cascading snowdrops in the Old

10th - 26th Feb

Family - The Moscow State Circus

Wood and Wild Garden, the scenic

“Miracles” a show that promises to have all the spectacle and nerve-

Follow our social media pages for

path down to the Lake and drifts

tingling, edge of your seat feats for

more info, line ups & competitions!

of snowdrops in the borders of the

the whole family.

Event City, Manchester,

formal Nesfield garden in front of

eventcity.co.uk/whats-on/

the Hall. Highlights are also the

Nowhere else will you witness all

two acre Walled Kitchen Garden

the magnificent ingredients served

and an unmissable vista down the

up in this truly great show, an experience that you won’t want to

Visit Chester

Colonel’s Walk where some of the rarest varieties can be viewed.

Rode Hall, Church Lane, Scholar

miss.

29th Jan

Green, Cheshire rodehall.co.uk

event for the last 2 years including

Fashion - The Cheshire Vintage Fashion Fair

installing the largest ever Big Top

With 50 fabulous Stalls inside

at Event City. The artistes have

the Main Grandstand at Chester

been in training ready for this

Racecourse

world-beating performance, which

The Cheshire Vintage Fashion

promises to be breath taking.

Fair’, with 50 sold out stalls, Now

Event City, Manchester,

in its 13Year!- and it’s still a must

eventcity.co.uk/whats-on/

for all fashion fans,) The County

The Circus has been planning this

Grandstand, Chester Racecourse, chester-races.co.uk/event/ cheshire-vintage-fashion-fair

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the A service that will make you smile!

Offering Denture Perfection

• • • • •

Emergency Denture Repairs Free Consultations Friendly Personal Service Open Late Ample Parking

GDC (REG) T.W. ELLWOOD Dip CDT RCS (ENG)

www.thedenturepeople.com • www.hillsidedentures.co.uk enquiries@hillsidedentures.co.uk Hillside Denture Centre, The Archways private medical & health clinic 86 Stockport Road, Romiley, Stockport SK6 3AA TEL: 0161 406 0400 The Didsbury Denture Centre, the dental health centre 1B School Lane, Didsbury M20 6RD TEL: 0161 445 5459

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CELEBRATING COLOUR IN ACTIVE AGEING Have you ever considered the impact of colour as we age?

Helen Venables, Managing Director of House of Colour does; every day with her clients and 100-person team in fact.

COLOUR - THE POWER OF BEING POSITIVE “Colour is key to every part of our lives and we see every day how what you wear can affect how you feel. For example, the right colours make us feel positive and full of vitality whilst the wrong ones drain us and can alter our moods negatively. This becomes increasingly obvious in how we dress as we age and in my view the more we embrace our true colours, the more we can influence how we feel and how others feel about us.

“Given that, whether we like it or not, we make decisions about someone and the way they look within seconds of meeting them, we need to consider what message we want to give others - perhaps that we are stylish, fun or professional? Many clients come to us because they are on emotional journeys, perhaps they are having a milestone birthday, have lost their style confidence or something significant has happened in their lives such as divorce or retirement.

“Whilst most of us know being active is important to combat heart disease, diabetes, and dementia, how many of us think about the link between positive emotional stimulation and good ageing?

Our levels of dopamine and serotonin naturally increase when we are happy and energised, and cortisol is suppressed. In fact, a positive outlook in life is thought to be able to add up to eight years to a life, so if we know colour affects our moods and outlook, then we know that colour is important as we age.”

So how else do we know colour is important in ageing? Psychologists have documented that colour does more than appeal to the senses. It also boosts memory by helping us to process and store images more efficiently than black and white would. People suffering from dementia may have visuo-perceptual difficulties, for example they may mistake a blue coloured floor as water or may

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have problems telling the difference between blue and purple.

AGEING STYLISHLY Venables argues every decade or so, we change the way we dress because the psychological drivers to keep us feeling attractive and healthy change with age.

“For women in their 50’s in particular, there is often a stark realisation that weight, skin and physical appearance are changing. For those in their 60’s, many will be coming to the end of a career. In our 70’s plus we may feel most positive through the gift of grandchildren.”

Our skin also changes, intrinsically because it may become more dry and atrophied, with loss of elasticity and new fine wrinkling because of hormonal changes and a decline in tissue function; and extrinsically because of exposure to ultraviolet light including altering pigmentation and collagen degeneration. Whilst we don’t change so much as we age that our colour seasons alter, we can apparently shift within our season. “We suggest that clients get re-rated every five to seven years to check that their wow colours haven’t shifted slightly because, as we age, we lose some of the contrast in our natural colouring which fade with time.

The right coloured make-up is a good way of adding the contrast back into natural colouring.

“Essentially wearing the right colours, feeling great about ourselves, and shining rather than becoming increasingly invisible is a vital part of active and positive ageing.”

THE PROCESS OF COLOUR ANALYSIS House of Colour personal stylists use a selection of either yellow or blue based colours to test what suits each client.

Fabric drapes are held against the face to determine the most appropriate range of colours, aptly labelled: spring, summer, autumn and winter. Accessories and make-up are also discussed as part of the programme to assess what really suits the client and what makes them look healthy.

The process consists of wearing a white cloak, facing the mirror with hair tied

back in natural daylight to stop any distractions. Colours are compared with the pigments that sit underneath someone’s skin to determine which colours of clothing and accessories lift the face, and which ones are more unflattering.

HISTORY OF COLOUR ANALYSIS In the 20th century the Swiss artist Johannes Itten, who worked and taught at the Bauhaus School of Art in Germany, is attributed with being the first person to associate colours with four types of people and the twelve point colour wheel which is widely used today on paint charts for home decorators, in dyeing kits and in hairdressers' colour charts.

Itten and others, through their involvement with colour, established that each individual has a basic skin pigment which falls into one of four groupings which are defined by the unique combination of depth, hue and tone; in colour analysis these have become known as Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter because of the pattern of colours found in each group. Two of these groups reflect warm-based colours which complement Spring and Autumn; the other two reflect cool-based colours which enhance Summer and Winter.

Robert Dorr, an artist who knew of Itten's theories of colour groupings, questioned his medical friends who confirmed that the make-up of the skin's layers can be tinged slightly blue or yellow. The base colour or undertone gives the hue while the surface colour is known as the overtone hence someone can be blue-based with yellowish overtones or yellow-based with a bluish look. The 'Image Consultant' was born.

FASHION KNOW YOUR NEUTRALS It is always sensible to ground most of your core investment pieces (suit, skirt, trousers, jacket) in a darker neutral and add your best colours for impact through your tops, jewellery, bags, lipstick, shoes or other accessories.

Don’t be shy. Neutrals are a wonderful foundation for work but colour is likely to make you more memorable than if you were in just black and white.

Psychologists reckon you are up to 10 per cent more memorable if you pick a colour, even in its neutral tone.

If you’re a winter palette, consider silver, charcoal, indigo, navy, mole and stone.

They are a simple but a fun variation to the typical black, white and grey.

If you’re a summer colour theme, pink beige, mushroom, rose brown, winter white, french navy, dark blue grey, light blue grey, airforce blue and burgundy.

Burgundy also works wonders as a bold lipstick or can be blended into a smokyeye for a change to typically bare-faced, work make-up look.

For those with an autumnal palette, pick dark brown, tan, oyster, coffee, camel, beige, khaki, lizard grey, dark olive, bronze and a marine navy. Particularly for accessories like shoes, belts and coats. This will add diversity to a classic work wardrobe and help to make you stand out and increase your confidence at work.

Spring colour themes can be made neutral with choices like chocolate, beige, dove grey, light dove grey, bright navy, oxford blue, tan, honey, oatmeal and cream. Blues work well as flattering skirts or trousers and creams look lovely on top as a blouse, jumper or cardigan.

Don’t be afraid to mix in current colour and fabric trends with traditional business wear as long as they fit within your style. It’s all about adding your own twist to your outfit. Be confident and comfortable and be visible for all the right reasons.

When you want to add colour and make your outfit more memorable, a bright scarf or tie can add a pop of colour to a predominantly neutral outfit.

A great way to inject colour and add impact is to wear your neutral seasonal colours but carry a statement colour tote handbag or bag. See what reaction you get.

At work, perhaps wear a bold colour or pattern in just one item of your outfit.

For example, without being over-the-top or flashy, you could pair a red dress with a neutral cardigan, tights and shoes.

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR WINTER COAT 1. See a coat as an investment rather than a typical clothing purchase; you will be wearing it more than any other item during the cooler months. Take your time to find exactly the right one.

2. A classic coat in your seasonal neutral colour never goes out of style and you can create different looks with scarves, boots, or an amazing hat and of course a fabulous handbag!

Accessorising is an easy way to change the look of your coat in an instant. If you are a warm coloured person for example, try a pop of the right shade of orange as a scarf with a dark brown coat or lift a grey coat with a splash of red if you are a cool palette!

3. Choose a colour that lights up or adds warmth to your face and do not be afraid of patterned fabrics that include more than one colour. Winter coats do not need necessarily need to be dark. If you can afford it, I recommend having one classic neutral coloured coat from your seasonal palette, perhaps chocolate, camel, grey or dark blue, depending on your season and a second coat in red or another of your brighter wow colours. Match the coat to your mood, outfit and where you are going.

4. Be practical rather than being overly concerned with trends when buying a coat. The weather at this time of year is why you need a coat in the first place so

you need one that can put up with most varied conditions. Will you be swishing around elegantly at Christmas parties or doing the school run and supermarket sweep?

5. What shape suits you? If you have a tall, narrow frame you are likely to be able to pull off a long, tailored coat with button detail. If you’re smaller than average, a knee-length coat will suit you perfectly and is great for showing off your legs too.

6. There are no set rules of course, but if you have a larger frame, opt for smooth, less bulky fabrics that offer lots of movement and hang well.

7. If you find the perfect coat but you don’t like the buttons, simply change them to something that better suits your style.

8. Don’t forget, you could be wearing layers and chunky knitted jumpers under your coat so make sure there is enough room – especially in the sleeves.

9. Colourful winter wear can lift your mood and energise you when its dull and dark outside. To help you find the right colour, do an online search for your favourite coloured coat but make sure you go in to the shop to try it on.

10. Think about how it makes you feel.

If you look fabulous and feel a million dollars when it’s wrapped around your body, then it’s the right coat. Now for a matching handbag…! www.houseofcolour.co.uk

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CARE Initial home visit by a home care company During the initial home visit by the home care company, they will carry out a detailed risk assessment of your home, as well as a manual handling assessment. This is important, as it will identify how the company staff will move you safely around your home, if assistance is required.

All staff should be fully trained on using equipment such as a hoist, to help bear your weight safely, if needed.

Keeping you safe and secure in your own home

How to choose the right Home Care Whether you’re choosing a home care company for a family member or starting to plan for your own future, there are several important things that you should consider. Here are a few useful pointers to help you along the way.

Your chosen home care provider is there to look after you. They should help you to make your own decisions and support you in maintaining your own independence. That also means treating you with respect, valuing you as a person and respecting your privacy. If you need assistance with tasks such as dressing, bathing and toileting, you have the right to choose your carer, whenever possible.

Remember, it’s your care and you have the right to be involved in every aspect of your care. Don’t ever be afraid to ask for a family member or friend to be kept informed about your home care too.

Home care company standards All companies have a ‘Statement of Purpose’ that sets out their aims and objectives and the type of the services they offer. If you’re employing a company, they should give you a contract explaining all terms and conditions. This will include things such as their confidentiality policy – for example, how they will hold and use

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personal data. All home care company employees should also have clear written guidelines and follow robust procedures on how to administer and assist with any medication needs.

Before your home care starts It’s important to always make sure that the home care company you choose visits you at home, before care starts.

This will give you the chance to discuss your requirements in detail to ensure that you’re happy with your choice of provider. A good home care company will answer any questions you may have during this visit. The visit will also give the company the opportunity to see the environment in which they will be working. If possible, arrange for a family member or friend to be there when the home care company visits.

So you’re thinking about using a company to provide home care? But how can you make sure that the home care provider you choose treats and cares for you in the right way?

It’s the job of the home care company staff to make sure that you are safe and secure in your own home when they are working with you. Every home care company must have procedures in place to protect those using home care services, to reduce the risk of accidents, and protect people from any form of abuse including physical, emotional and financial abuse. This will also include an agreement about gaining access to your home. Care workers should have ID cards to show their photograph, their name, the company’s name and contact details.

Home care companies must also have a policy in place that sets out how staff should handle money, if you ask them to buy things, or to pay a bill for you.

Paying for home care It’s important to know the cost of home care and you should always be provided with a clear idea of costs for home care services. In most cases, companies will charge different rates for home care on weekday, evenings and weekends.

There is also often a higher rate on Bank Holidays. Remember to ask if there will be any additional costs that you need to know about.

If you have been assessed by Social Services as being eligible for care and support at home, and Social Services have agreed to, fully or part fund your care (dependant on your financial assessment), you can choose to have the Care Company Social Services appoint, or you can choose to have Social Services provide the money to buy, some or all of, the support you need using something called a “Direct Payment”. The Direct Payment option allows you greater flexibility and freedom in how your care is provided.

You can choose to employ your own

‘personal assistant’ or decide to work with the care provider of your choice. Your local Social Services team will be able to advise you further.

Check what you are being charged All costs should be written into the contract between you and the company and you should be invoiced at regular intervals for the previous months’ service. In most cases, the home care company will keep timesheets that you will need to sign. Always check that they have logged the correct length of visits. It may seem easier to sign only once a week but if you do this you may be charged the incorrect amount and it will prove difficult to prove otherwise.

Automated care worker monitoring Some home care companies have electronic monitoring so care workers can ‘check in’ using their mobile phone or put a pin number into your landline phone.

There is no cost to you when they use this system and it records the exact length of time that your care provider has been with you. This system also helps the home care company to highlight any missed calls by the care worker, reducing the risk of you not getting a call.

Top 10 key questions to ask when choosing a Home Care company •

Can the company provide the care needed, and have they provided care before for someone with similar needs?

•

How will the company and staff respect your privacy and dignity?

•

Have they taken the time to understand your personal likes and dislikes?

•

How do they match the most suitable care worker to your needs? Will they arrive at the time you have requested. Will you always have the same person caring for you. What happens if they are sick or go on holiday?

•

What charges will you be expected to pay (Is there a minimum charge)? And how you will be invoiced?

•

Is the company insured to protect your safety and interests?

•

Do all care workers undergo a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check before being employed? And what ongoing training do they receive?

•

Does the company have a copy of its latest inspection report available for you to look at?

•

Can the company be contacted outside office hours or in an emergency?

•

Will the company give you a copy of their standard contract to read before signing?

Absolute Care & Support specialise in Home Care support services for Adults with Physical Disabilities, Learning Difficulties, Sensory Impairment and Mental Health Conditions and those in need of short or long-term assistance with activities of daily life.

We knew we would need help on an ongoing basis. Absolute Care & Support helped us work a care plan around our needs.

COULD YOU JOIN OUR TEAM OF DEDICATED CARERS?

Absolute Care & Support specialise in Home Care support services for Adults with Physical Disabilities, Learning Difficulties, Sensory Impairment and Mental Health Conditions and those in need of short or long-term assistance with activities of daily life.

Call Karen or Janyce for more information on 0161 430 4676

Office 6, Holly House, Hyde Road, Woodley SK6 1NB

www.absolutecareandsupport.com

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Your Low Cost Funeral Specialists

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

We believe these challenges should remain emotional, not financial"

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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 any time.

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Bankfield House Care Home

Helping you enjoy life

Bankfield House aims to provide residents with a secure, relaxed and homely environment in which their care, well being and comfort is of prime importance.

Our highly trained staff are dedicated carers who value the concept of person centred care.

• Up to 30 residents, 24 single and 3 Twin Rooms • 3 Lounges / 2 Dining Rooms / Large Conservatory • Permanent / Short Term / Respite Stay • Day Care Service • Home Made Cooked Food • Social Activities on a Daily Basis • Beautifully Appointed Formal Gardens

CORE VALUES OF CARE

Privacy Dignity Rights Independence Choice Fulfillment Security Respect Equality 38 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

• Visiting Practicioners • Regular Outings • Weekly Hairdressing • CCTV/ 24hr Security

OUR HOME IS YOUR HOME

PHILOSOPHY OF CARE

Bankfield House is an independent, privately owned Care Home situated in a quiet corner of Woodley in the tranquility of its own attractive landscaped gardens consisting of ponds, bar-be-cue and pergolas.

We aim to provide Residents with a secure, relaxed and homely environment in which their care, well being and comfort is of prime importance.

The Home accommodates 30 Residents requiring High Dependency and Standard Residential Care in 24 single and 3 twin rooms (8 shower en-suite facilities and 7 ensuite toilet, 2 bathrooms and 1 shower room) situated on the ground and first floor, serviced by a passenger lift. Our ethos is to assist our Residents in continuing to live their lives as independently as their specific needs determine by providing holistic care and support conducive to those needs and meeting the needs of those Residents whose conditions have had an impact on the ageing process.

The Home offers dedicated care for Permanent/Short term/Respite stay, Day Care (tailored to your needs) providing each individual Resident with security, dignity and peace of mind in a homely, comfortable and happy family environment.

There are three lounges, a large conservatory and two dining rooms. We operate a NO SMOKING policy within the Home.

We encourage personal choice, with stimulation and freedom to live ones life as far as the individual’s physical ability and/or mental capacity allows.

Carers will strive to preserve and maintain the dignity, individuality and privacy of all our Residents within a warm, caring and happy atmosphere, and in doing so will be sensitive to each Residents’ ever changing needs.

This will be achieved through programmes of activities designed to encourage mental stimulation, self-esteem, and social interaction with other Residents and with recognition of the following core values of care, which are fundamental to the philosophy of our home.

All care staff within the home appropriately qualified to deliver the highest standards of care. A continuous staff training programme is implemented to ensure that these high standards are maintained in line with the latest initiatives and developments in care practices as may be laid down in appropriate legislation, and registration authority guidelines.

Contact our friendly team on:

0161 406 6468

Email: admin@bankfieldcare.co.uk Bankfield House Care Home, Bankfield Road, Woodley, Stockport SK6 1RQ

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Fernlea

Independent living at Fernlea A place you will be proud to call home Lo cate d at the hea rt of Benef it s o f our suites : H aze l Grove in S tock po rt, • A ll-inclusive co sts, Fe rnl e a , o ur awa rd winning including cle a n i n g, care home, o ffers f irst cla ss laundr y, and cater i n g i nde pe ndent living fa cilit ies.

• Car e package s

O ur s uites a re designed fo r available t ho s e wit h a higher level of • Comfor table , f u l l y i nde pe ndence, encoura ging fur nishe d suites re s i de nts to live in their ow n, well ma inta ined , f ully • D ir e ct and e asy access to all eve nts a n d th e furni s hed surroundings, main facility w hi l e b eing a pa rt o f a s uppo rt ive communit y a nd • Inde pe nde nt a ccess to lar ge suite s si tu ated havi ng the a ssura nce t hat ar ound a lar ge o ur care tea m a re there if cour tyar d any as s ista nce is needed.

“I have found another family at Fernlea” (comment from family member, 2016)

For more information call

0161 456 8322

Fernlea 20 Torkington Road Hazel Grove Stockport SK7 4RQ v i s i t u s at w w w. l i v i n gat fe r n l e a . co . u k w w w.fa c e b o o k . co m /o l e a ca re g ro u p