STOCKPORT ISSUE 60

JANUARY - MARCH 2020

STOCKPORT EDITION 60

Sir Cliff Richard

CELEBRATING HIS 80TH BIRTHDAY

Adapting 2020 Ideas TO BRIGHTEN YOUR HOME

Gennaro Contaldo

SHARES RECIPES FOR HIS NEW BOOK 'GENNARO'S PASTA PERFECTO'

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CONTENTS

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4-5

TWITTERING ON

By Angela Kelly

10-11

SIR CLIFF RICHARD Celebrating his 80th birthday

12-13 FINANCE

A secure future with equity release 16-17 HOME

Adapting 2020 ideas to brighten your home

Travel JOHN SUCHET TAKES A DANUBE RIVER CRUISE WITH UNIWORLD

23-25

FOOD & DRINK Ginnaro Contaldo's Italian recipes

28-39

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

32-33 HEALTH

How to help someone with Dementia

Bridgeman House 77 Bridgeman Street | Bolton | BL3 6BY. Sales Enquiries : T: (01204) 238180

Sir Cliff Richard

Ginnaro Contaldo

CELEBRATING HIS 80TH BIRTHDAY

ITALIAN RECIPES

My life E: artwork@mcgrathmedia.co.ukMy home To view more articles My cuppa, jus VISIT OUR BRAND NEW LOOK WEBSITE WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK the way I like Home Care from Bluebird Care

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TWITTER

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TWITTERING ON

BY ANGELA KELLY “mockumentary” which will take what they see as gospel.

They will, wrongly, assume that this is true history being played out by actors and definitely happened. In fact, as in The Crown, there are some scenes “imagined” – in other words, they made it up.

Although accepting that it can be used by those with an agenda to shape public opinion, it’s not necessarily always a damaging ploy.

In the hit 2017 film Darkest Hour set in May, 1940, and about Winston Churchill winning the hearts and minds of both Parliament and the public during World War Two, there is a scene on the London underground which is pivotal.

Do film and TV dramas really tell the truth?

VETERAN broadcaster John Sergeant raised an interesting point about how fictionalised versions of history may fool people into believing this is actually what happened.

He was concerned about the Netflix hit series The Crown. He felt the way it depicted the Royal Family might not be “appropriate” and that timelines and events were “massaged and altered” to assist the drama. This comes after the Queen’s ex-press secretary called imagined scenes “distasteful.”

However accurate or otherwise such dramatised versions of real-life are, there is definitely a concern there about how near the truth such versions may be. They are, after all, created for entertainment and perhaps some periods of history, some lives, are just not that interesting for quite a large part of them.

When there are occurrences (and, goodness me, the Royal Family had a year packed with them in 2019) then they tend to be the ones on which, quite naturally, dramatists focus.

More worrying – which I think is John Sergeant’s point – is that there will be a large portion of any audience of this kind of 4

Churchill meets and chats to Londoners who give their opinion about the war which alters, or possibly cements, his own views.

As a result, he makes an inspirational speech to Parliament.

However, researchers who observed people meeting in local government, public organisations, the police and health bodies found decision-making is actually very limited.

These findings will be balm to all those harassed souls forced to attend endless meetings with their job. Furthermore, the researchers say that these meetings are often more like “therapy”, allowing people to air complaints, justify their job or clarify their own status.

Brilliant! Some decisions are best taken by a very small number of purpose-driven individuals who will get on with what’s important.

Ready for my 10 o’clock meeting? Sorry, it’s just not productive enough.

Apparently, there is no evidence that this ever happened. We don’t mind, though, because it is artistic licence and adds to the points being made about Churchill which were historically accurate.

I suppose the problem is that most of us have either forgotten what we’ve learned of some specific period or event in history or are simply too lazy to find out the truth.

We go with the version that entertains us, happily accepting that this “seems right” so it must be true, which is possibly dangerous naivety.

When meetings really take us nowhere I LOVE the latest findings about business meetings: that they may be more about status and showing off than actually getting anything done.

According to academics from Malmo University and Lund University in Sweden, some managers spend more than half their working week in meetings.

YouTube is the go-to place for practical skills ARE you a Bake Off fan? I watch it sometimes but it always leaves me feeling hungry.

I do love, though, Junior Bake Off because it’s not only inspirational but fascinating to witness the skills that these youngsters display with so much confidence.

The latest winner was 13 year-old Finley Woodward. Far from having to be prised off his X-box, Finley plainly loved to cook and was absolutely amazing at it.

He learned his skills from his grandmother and from watching YouTube videos and, while the former seems so logical, us older types have had to come to terms with how people pick up new talents these days.

In fact,YouTube is a fantastic tool. I’ve learned how to put my hair up in quite an enviable style, can now re-wire a plug and regularly watch “how to massage” videos purely for the relaxation.

OK, it’s not Bake Off, but what other clip can make your eyelids shut and you feel totally relaxed. Oh, sorry, forgot Newsnight.

Cheers to the wine tasters – and good luck!

I DON’T know about you but I’ve always been in awe of those wine buffs who really understand their subject.

You know the type: they study the bottle before it’s even opened, pronounce on the year or the region in some knowledgeable way, swill the first mouthful lovingly around before swallowing and then talk about its nose or undertones.

Walliams’ wicked humour makes him top author DAVID Walliams may be a comedian but he is definitely laughing all the way to the bank as the writer of children’s books.

The creator of Mr Stink, The Boy in the Dress and Gangsta Granny has notched up sales of £100 million. This puts the Britain’s Got Talent judge into an exclusive bracket of children’s authors.

Since he first started writing children’s literature in 2008, the former Little Britain star has written 25 books including seven picture books and four short story collections.

Perhaps what helps the talented Walliams is that he now has a six year-old son but I’m sure what is equally important is his own quirky personality and lack of fear when it comes to performing in public.

He’s worth a book in himself.

Now, research suggests that many so-called wine connoisseurs cannot tell one bottle from another. Food scientists at Oxford University had experienced tasters convinced they were sampling a delicious rose when they actually drinking a white wine – made from an entirely different grape but dyed pink with food colouring.

Now, there is concern that wine snobs may not actually be able to distinguish one tipple from another by taste and aroma but are primarily driven by colour.

In that case, minesh a red!

or email: help@aamail.org 5

TRAVEL

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50 Plus Travel

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might like a glass of champagne.” We hadn’t ordered any. She had read our minds.

JOHN SUCHET TAKES A DANUBE RIVER CRUISE WITH UNIWORLD I was a great fan of river cruises before I ever took one. There must be something to see every day. Was I right? There was only one way to find out, and the opportunity presented itself last October - a Danube River Cruise with Uniworld, on which I would give talks about Vienna, City of Music, also describe how the waltz came to Vienna, and introduce a concert in an ornate Viennese palace.

It got better. We went up on to the sundeck and sat round a table admiring the beautiful city of Budapest from the river. I spotted a waitress climbing the steps, one hand on the handrail, the other balancing a tray with six glasses of champagne. I wonder if she’d bring some for us, I thought. Smiling, she put the tray down and said: “I thought you

I decided to combine pleasure with business.

For the last decade or so, every October I have had a reunion with my oldest friends in the world, fellow students I graduated with over half a century ago. We were at university in Dundee, so in past years bottles have been opened and consumed in Scotland’s great cities. This time, why not make it extra special, and toast our friendship aboard S.S. Maria Theresa, gliding gently along the Danube, surrounded by exquisite scenery you might almost be able to reach out and touch?

It took a masterpiece of planning. Let me tell you how it began. My wife Nula and I had barely unpacked in our state room (cabins are so passé), when I received a text message: ‘We’re in the Habsburg salon.’

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Boat Exterior in Budapest

That was a hallmark of the trip. Impeccable service on a truly beautiful ship. The captain addressed us all on the first evening, and it was evident how proud he was of her. The S.S. Maria Theresa is done out in the style of the Empress she is named after. Luxurious, splendid, glass doors and walls, gilded mirrors and chandeliers.

He acknowledged, in his welcome speech, that the state rooms were not large. How could they be on a river cruise ship which needed to negotiate some narrow passages of river and many locks? “But have you noticed the space underneath the bed?”

There was a collective intake of breath. Bed coverings are so luxurious they reach the floor. It had not occurred to us to lift them up, to reveal a vast space underneath specially designed to take your suitcases. Clever.

Uniworld Lobby Our cruise began in Budapest and travelled west, via Bratislava and Vienna to Passau in Germany. Over the course of a week you see more variety than you could ever predict.

Big city life in Budapest and Vienna. Small city life in Bratislava and Passau. Country life as you cruise down the Wachau Valley, Austria’s wine growing area.

You want activity? Every day excursions were available - from city tours to walking tours and bike rides, from a visit to a winery to an exclusive visit to a saffron workshop.

You want to stay nice and quiet? Just lounge on the sundeck or in your state room.

You might want to join some of the more energetic tours, if only to work off the weight you put on in the restaurant. The food was exceptional, and just as the ship itself reflects life in the historic Habsburg Empire, so the food brings you a taste of the area the ship is in on that particular day.

There is no doubt about it. Uniworld river cruises - from Portugal in the west to Russia in the east - are the height of luxury. Several experienced river cruisers told us they always travel Uniworld - with a knowing look and a comment along the lines of “You get what you pay for.”

Yes, they are not cheap, but everything is included, and I mean everything. That means all food and drink. Not just wine

and soft drinks, but all drinks. That first tray of champagne is already paid for - so is very other drink you consume on the trip. Experienced Uniworld travellers know to pace themselves. Tips too are all included.You are not expected to tip, but several discreet handshakes were given for exceptional service.You really could leave your credit card at home.

So was I right about river cruises? In a word yes, and now I really can speak from experience. The only problem: much as I love the cities of Scotland, next year’s reunion will have a lot to live up to.

Uniworld’s (uniworld.com / 0808 301 2705) eight day Enchanting Danube cruise from Budapest to Passau is priced from £2,499 per person, twin share, for departures between March – November 2020. All-inclusive price includes luxury onboard accommodation in a riverview stateroom onboard the S.S. Maria Theresa, all meals and unlimited beverages onboard; onshore excursions, all transfers on arrival and departure days and return flights from the UK. Offers are regularly available, check www.uniworld.com/uk/current-offers/ for details.

FOR A CHANCE TO WIN SOME GREAT HOLIDAY PRIZES FROM SILVER TRAVEL ADVISOR VISIT WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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Coastal | Rural | Woodland 7

If you’ve not tried coach holidays before why not let Ellen Smith’s take you on your first coach experience. We’ve been established for over 120 years – so we know a bit about coaching holidays!

We do things a bit differently than our rivals All our tours include our ‘Door to Door’ service.

That means that you are picked up by a taxi or small minibus right from your front door. No feeders, no interchanges, no changing coaches, no changing drivers and definitely no hassle!

Within 30 minutes We normally have everyone on board and we’re on our way. We often have a second pickup at Stockport, but again this is timed for minimal delay.

We are fully Financially Bonded And use some excellent privately-owned hotels. All visits and excursions are included in the price. We use modern coaches and mature friendly drivers.

How does it work?

On the morning of travel we pick you up at a prearranged time and take you to our waiting coach at Birch Services.

We’re off on holiday then!

The same happens on the way back too, taxi back to your front door!

We never discount We charge the correct price in the first place – therefore everybody on board pays the same price.

Finally If you can find the same or similar holiday for sale cheaper in the UK we’ll refund the difference to the whole coach!

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YEA RS Membersh No: 10228ip

Our 2020 ‘Door to Door’ Coach Tours Brochure out now, telephone us on:

01706 648126 for your free copy.

Once you’ve gone the Ellen Smith way you’ll never go back!

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DOO R COA CH

TO DOO R TOU RS 2 020 www.e llensm ith.co.u

k

120

A SELECTION OF OUR 2020 COACH TOURS

BEAUTIFUL CORNWALL - Rosemundy House Hotel

BOURNEMOUTH - Mayfair Hotel

CODEBREAKERS & CASTLE

Overview: Our tour is based in St. Agnes, a picturesque village on the north coast of Cornwall. Steeped in mining history, the village still retains a traditional friendly Cornish atmosphere.

Includes Visits to: Newquay & Padstow, Falmouth & Truro, Penzance & St. Ives. This Tour has a ‘Winter Warmer’ theme with Sherry Reception; one afternoon cream tea; glass of wine on the last evening.

Overview: With seven miles of golden sands and sparkling sea, the vibrant cosmopolitan town of Bournemouth has it all – a vast variety of shops and restaurants, buzzing nightlife, endless countryside offering peace and relaxation and beautiful award-winning gardens.

Includes Visits to: Poole & Weymouth, Sherborne & Shaftesbury.

Kettering Park Hotel & Spa

28 February | 5 Days | £279

16 March | 5 Days | £299

Overview: On this tour we step back in time and visit the home of codebreaking in the Second World War – Bletchley Park.

Tour Highlights: Admission to Belvoir Castle, Traditional Market Town of Stamford, Admission to Bletchley Park, Market Town of St. Neots, University City of Cambridge.

19 March | 5 Days | £369

BEAUTIFUL DARTMOOR IN SPRING - The Moorland Hotel

THRIPLOW DAFFODIL WEEKEND - Mercure Letchworth Hall Hotel

Overview: Our tour is based at Haytor set at the base of Dartmoor - a magical, ancient landscape of stunning views, awe-inspiring granite tors and rugged, wide open spaces where you can truly escape to find peace and extreme beauty.

Stunning Dartmoor Views. Includes Visits to: Tavistock & Plymouth, Coastal Town of Teignmouth, Historic Exeter, Picturesque Fishing Port of Brixham, Seaside Resort of Torquay

Overview: Nothing says spring quite like Daffodils!

Since the first event in 1969, the weekend has grown larger and larger attracting thousands of visitors over the years to come and enjoy the village and its fantastic fair & daffodils. The 4 Star Mercure Letchworth Hall Hotel stands in 8 acres of grounds in Hertfordshire. Dating back to 1652 this former old English Manor House retains many Jacobean features.

Tour Highlights: Thriplow Daffodil Weekend & Country Fair. University City of Cambridge.

Overview: A holiday in Blackpool will leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed and recharged - even if you’re on the go 25 hours a day! Perhaps it’s the resort’s infectious zest for life. Or maybe it’s just that, uniquely, whatever your routine Blackpool can offer a perfect break from it. Day Excursions: ½ Day and 1 Full Day Excursion. These will be operated by The Doric Hotel and although these are included in the cost of the holiday, please ensure that you register your name with the Hotel Reception staff upon arrival at the hotel.

23 March | 5 Days | £299

27 March | 4 Days | £289

30 March | 5 Days | £239

AVEBURY MANOR & GARDEN AND BRISTOL BOAT TRIP Best Western Blunsdon House Overview: A lovely new tour for 2020 which includes something for everyone with a City Docks Boat Trip, a visit to a 16th century Manor House & Garden and free time to explore the beautiful city of Bath. Tour Highlights: Admission to Avebury Manor & Garden, Market Town of Marlborough, Bristol including a Boat Trip, Beautiful Bath, Pretty Village of Lacock.

02 April | 5 Days | £389

INTERESTED?

WEYMOUTH - Hotel Rex

LLANDUDNO Marlborough Hotel Overview: Llandudno is Wales’s largest resort, uniquely situated between the Great and Little Ormes with two wonderful beaches, the awardwinning North Shore and the quiet, sand duned West Shore.

We enjoy the short journey to Conwy, a delightful small town with a picturesque quayside overlooked by the mighty Conwy Castle.

03 April | 4 Days | £259

Call our reservations office on 01706 648126 and request a copy of our 2020 brochure. You’ll be surprised at the variations of tours we operate. Visit our website at www.ellensmith.co.uk

BLACKPOOL - Doric Hotel

Overview: Located on the beautiful Dorset coast and known as one of the UK’s most beautiful seaside resorts lies Weymouth. With its warmer climate, stretch of golden sands, shallow waters and pretty harbourside you certainly won’t be disappointed!

Tour Highlights: Return Trip on Seaton Tramway Lyme Regis, Admission to Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, Free Day to Explore Weymouth 10 Single Rooms Available!

06 April | 5 Days | £399

Find us on facebook (search for ellensmithtours) 9

Membership No: 10228

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

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SIR CLIFF RICHARD CELEBRATING HIS 80TH BIRTHDAY FEW artists can lay claim to the kind of stellar career that Sir Cliff Richard has enjoyed – and even fewer can say they are still touring successfully.

been there for him for several decades. But the reality is that Sir Cliff has managed to keep in tune with the times very astutely throughout his long career.

He is, though, amazingly celebrating his 80th birthday this year (2020). And it’s probably no surprise that this celebration involves a new tour.

He is the only singer in the history of music to have a No.1 hit in the 1950s, ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s and 1990s. He is the third artist, after Elvis Presley and The Beatles, with the highest number of No.1 hits in the UK and more Top Ten hits than any other artist.

It is certainly a tribute to the man and his music that demand for The Great 80 Tour means that two shows at London’s Royal Albert Hall have already been added and ticket demand is likely to be extremely high.

It would be very easy to dismiss the bulk of those fans as being older – and he certainly has a great many loyal followers who have

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In 1989, he became the first British recording artist to release 100 singles with The Best of Me. Behind all the statistics, however, lies a genuine home-grown music legend who helped to build the UK’s music reputation over all those decades and since. The man

has musicality running right through his veins.

That was all obvious to fans even when the young Cliff burst onto the rock ‘n roll world of the 1950s. Music was just moving away from the Sinatra crooning years and offered exciting possibilities to young fans across the world who were, finally, getting music that belonged just to them.

Cliff Richard was young, good-looking and considered the UK’s answer to America’s Elvis. His first hit single Move It in 1958 appeared to confirm that and Cliff - with his quiffed hair, moody looks and sexy moves - soon became a screamable star at home and abroad.

He had a good voice and savvy management as he quickly moved into films in 1959 with Serious Charge in which he played a young tearaway, adding to his then “bad boy” image. He also sang Living Doll in this film, creating just one of his popular classics.

The same year, he appeared in another film, Expresso Bongo, in which he prosaically, played a young singer at the start of his career. The Young Ones followed in 1961 and then in 1963 he and his backing group, The Shadows, made Summer Holiday.

The wealth of hits from this feelgood film really helped cement his reputation in the home market and across the world. He made three more films – Finders Keepers in 1966, Two a Penny in 1967 and Take Me High in 1973 – which also pleased fans but by then Cliff was box-office gold wherever he went.

Interestingly, Cliff was a great admirer of Elvis. “He was my idol from the beginning,” he has said. “Even today, when I’m alone, I’ll often put on the King Creole album. He’s produced the most exciting pop music sounds of all time.”

For Cliff, We Don’t Talk Anymore in 1979 proved to be his best-selling single, notching up more than five million sales worldwide. Private Collection in 1988 was his best-selling album with almost two million copies sold.

His reputation now settled into being a wholesome entertainer with fans across the age divide. Cliff was chosen to represent the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1968 with Congratulations and in 1973 with Power To All Our Friends.

With the former, Cliff was beaten to the title by just one point when the Spanish entry – long forgotten – won. Ironically, Congratulations has endured to enjoy the same international popularity as Happy Birthday as a celebratory song.

His long popularity has been underlined by a whole clutch of awards over the years. He won the British Record Industry Award for British Male Solo Artist n 1977,

the British Phonographic Industry Award for British Male Solo Artist in 1982 and a Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution in 1989.

In 2004, he was inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame for his outstanding contribution to British music and as an integral part of British music culture.

He is still recording and in October, 2019, collaborated on a duet, Samstag Nacht, with Howard Carpendale, and the album Symphonie Meines Lebens was released physically and digitally worldwide. Cliff Richard and the Shadows: The Best of the Rock ‘n Roll Pioneers was also released in November last year, focusing solely on Cliff’s output with The Shadows and featuring many of his top hits.

Born in Lucknow, India, as Harry Rodger Webb, Sir Cliff always had a strong family with three sisters. He has never made a secret of the fact that he is a Christian and has been perceived by all, not just his fans, to have lived a wholesome life.

This may explain the outcry in 2014 when his home was very publicly searched by

police following an historic allegation of sexual abuse of a minor. Sir Cliff was questioned by police but not arrested and the allegation was subsequently dropped.

His many fans were never in doubt of his innocence and his popularity remains undimmed.

Although he has always been generous in praise of his pop peers throughout the decades, Sir Cliff’s own remarkable, record-breaking success has not always been acknowledged.

As he stated himself: “My only gripe is when critics writing the history of rock ‘n roll leave me out altogether.

“I don’t subscribe to the view that if you’re not No.1 , it’s a failure. Maybe that’s why people disappear so quickly these days, because they have that attitude.”

For Sir Cliff, entering his eighth decade still on-song and still entertaining the fans, longevity in the notoriously fickle world of pop is obviously just not an issue.

* For details of The Great 80 Tour go to www.cliffrichard.org/latest-tour/ 11

FINANCE

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Also check whether you have the right to remain in your property for life or until you need to move to long-term care, provided the property remains your main residence and you abide by the terms and conditions of your contract.

It’s worth checking whether you have the right to move to another property, subject to the new property being acceptable to your product provider as continuing security for your equity release loan and whether the product has a “no negative equity guarantee”.You will also need to know what level of maintenance you’ll be expected to carry out and how often your property will be inspected – this could be every few years.

A SECURE FUTURE WITH

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

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

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

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You can ring-fence a percentage of your property for later use, possibly for inheritance - the percentage you retain will always remain the same, regardless of the change in property values, unless you decide to take further cash releases. At the end of the plan, your property is sold and the sale proceeds are shared according to the remaining proportions of ownership.

You will get a lump sum or regular payments – normally between 20 per cent and 60 per cent of the market value of your home, or the part you sell.

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

Keep in mind the percentage of the market value you will receive. This will increase the older you are when you take out the plan but might vary from provider to provider.

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

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

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

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

The average borrower in their late 60s can usually borrow around 35% of the value of their home, but how much can be released is dependent on your age and the value of your property. The percentage typically increases according to your age when you take out the lifetime mortgage, while some providers might offer larger sums to those with certain past or present medical conditions. Many lenders offer interest rates which are fixed or, if they are variable, have a “cap” or upper limit which is fixed for the loan’s duration.

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

Again, it’s also worth finding out if you have the right to move to another

property, subject to the new property being acceptable to your product provider as continuing security for your equity release loan, as different lifetime mortgage providers might have slightly different thresholds.

Consider whether you can pay none, some or all of the interest. If you can make repayments, the mortgage will be less costly. However, with a lifetime mortgage where you can make monthly payments, the amount you can repay might be based on your income. Providers will have to check you can afford these regular payments.

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

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

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

Unlock tax-free cash from your home

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Speak to one of our advisors for your free, no obligation quotation and to find out how much tax-free cash you can access to spend as you wish. They will explain how equity release could affect the amount of inheritance you can leave and if your entitlement to means-tested benefits could be affected now or in the future.

Equity release may involve a home reversion plan or a lifetime mortgage which is secured against your property. To understand the features and risks ask for your personalised illustration. Equity release requires paying off any existing mortgage. Any money released, plus accrued interest, would be repaid upon death or moving into long-term care. Only if your case completes would a typical fee of 1.95% of the amount released be payable (minimum £1,495).

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BRAND INTERIORS STOCKPORT….

Every visit is different…

Brand Interiors now have 11 large showrooms situated across the north west of England,Yorkshire and the Midlands, with the one right in the heart of Reddish, Stockport. Connected to Broadstone Mill, the perfect location to get all your home furniture needs (and wants)

The beauty of shopping at Brand Interiors is that no two visits are ever the same.

Nearly every day there’s a new range or line added to ensure that as well as saving money on big-name brands, you can also keep up with the very latest trends at up to half the price you’d find elsewhere on the high street.

What they do is simple….

They buy cancelled orders & end of line stock from some of the high streets most famous furniture stores and manufacturers & sell them to you at half the high-street price!!

100% Brands at half the price!

With a large selection of furniture for the home including living room - sofas, chairs, coffee tables, book cases, dining room – dining tables, dining chairs, sideboards,

Buy it today & take it away…

bedroom – beds, mattresses, bedside tables, wardrobes, chest of drawer, and accessories including pictures, mirrors, and lighting, you will be spoilt for chose!

Chose the item you like and take it away with you that very day or let us arrange a hassle-free deliver. Unlike most furniture stores you wont be waiting weeks or even months to start enjoying your new purchase.

Visit Brand Interiors in Stockport today…

ADDRESS: Brand Interiors, Broadstone Mill, Broadstone Rd, Reddish, Stockport, SK5 7DL TEL: 0161 4329652 OPENING TIMES: Mon – Fri 10.00 – 17.00 Sat 10.00 – 17.30 Sun 11.00 – 17.00

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ADAPTING 2020 IDEAS TO BRIGHTEN YOUR HOME

so why not choose a colourful front door?

Flank it with tall planters, a big quality doormat (well worth the investment) and luxury lighting overhead for a big welcome.

De-clutter areas like this as much as possible: stow coats, umbrellas and shoes away so they don’t detract from this welcoming space. Getting rid of boxes, ugly cupboards or just piles of items in any room will really allow you to appreciate your home space and improve it.

Ditch dated FURNITURE. If your old sofa in your living room makes you wince every time you look at it, invest in something new – or just new to you.

The same for LIGHTING throughout the home. Nothing detracts from anywhere more than poor or old-fashioned lighting.

New ones aren’t necessarily expensive but they can bring a room alive!

HOME décor is very much about personal taste but we all like to feel we are keeping up with contemporary trends, don’t we?

These are available online or in the shops and show how various shades complement and enhance each other.

So, our homes tend to be a blend of what we’ve always liked and what is currently available in the shops, stores and online. If something is promoted well as “this year’s trend” then we probably evaluate it.

Before you start any changes – even to buying major new items of furniture – it’s worth taking a holistic look at your home.

In other words, we look at whether it’s right for us and whether or not we feel we can comfortably live with it.

However, style is very subjective and it’s always useful to know what is a New Year will bring to the market. For 2020, there are plenty of new ideas to appeal – and if you haven’t the finances for expensive items or makeovers, there are always ways to adapt them to your budget.

The good news in 2020 is that there are plenty of styles to choose from, and plenty of shortcuts to take to achieve them.

Devising a completely new COLOUR CODE for any room – or for your whole home – can be costly and may be hit and miss if you are simply trying to match up shades. Investing in a colour wheel can help.

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Start where a visitor would with the ENTRANCE. This should be a focal point

Opt for CLASSIC interiors that don’t just pander to the latest fads but offer a minimalist palette that gives a high-end feel.

Abstracts are going to be major force in the interior design world this season. Work with bold geometrics, hand-drawn sketches and blocks of colour around the home in décor that expresses your personality.

If you don’t think that this trend will fit entirely with your decor, try a taster with cushion covers in one room or a sketch you

like in a quirky frame you might pick up in a charity shop.

Stripped back style will continue from 2019 as a popular trend this year to give a happy, chilled-out space for relaxing and regenerating.

The new neutral colours are warming and calm to offer understated style with unfussy pieces. So take a serious look at that shelf of knick-knacks and decide whether you really want to look at them for another year!

There is a shift away from cool grey with warmer neutrals like oatmeal and natural buff and beige to the fore. Natural pigments are also likely to be popular this year.

Layer up comforting CUSHIONS, throws, knits and faux furs to ensure any space is more inviting and cosy. The Winter is the ideal time for this look as you feel instant warmth here, however cold outside, and then this space is still fashionable for Spring.

TEXTURES are big in 2020 – whether that’s a rich velvet, handsome leather or a warm wood. Go for furniture with rounded curves and fluid shapes to ensure a pleasant flow and use them centre-stage as a feature. Or go for a plush statement sofa to anchor your interior design theme around.

Accessories need to be tactile, whether in natural wood, weaves or sculptured forms.

Oriental prints are still popular for walls and echoed in soft furnishings. Keep the colour palettes soft though with that feeling of wellbeing and mindfulness coming through.

After all, your home is a place where you want to feel good.

Keep NATURAL LIGHT in mind wherever you are around the home but especially in the living room and kitchen.

Look where it falls and see how the sun moves around your home.

This will affect how the colours you use are perceived and can help you divide up your space for the various activities you want – watching TV, reading, socialising and relaxing.

Create SOCIABLE SPACES where people can actually talk to each other happily. Two sofas facing each other, for example, offer a sociable space but keep the room scale in mind.You don’t want this to dominate or to look lost in a room.

Have statement walls in contrasting colours to more neutral areas to make them stand out. And take a proper look at all your flooring. Does it enhance the room? Is it in a matching style or completely at odds? Does it offer flow from one room to the next? Is it comfortable?

There are lots of reasonably priced floorings to be had, especially in natural woods, that provide a complete change for any room.

Invest in cosy rugs if you feel this is too cold a look but make sure they are the right size and don’t upset the proportions of the room. Bear in mind though, that wood’s warm tones can easily provide an impressive backdrop for furniture and fittings.

CURTAINS can bring a fresh design feel to any room but you may feel in need of a change to BLINDS. The latest looks are created to complement the contemporary home interior styles and well worth investigating.

Updating INTERIOR DOORS is a simple way to give a modern look to the whole property.

Dated BATHROOM accessories do the same here and don’t cost a fortune; new soft white towels and a few imaginative accessories will brighten the look here.

The same applies to BEDROOMS. The latest calming colours and rich textures work well in here and promote deep sleep.

So get rid of any clashing colours, buy a dimmer switch and prepare to enjoy your home for another year.

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FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR HOME AGAIN …

Whatever your reasons, it’s almost inevitable that at some point you’ll feel ready to refresh your home with new and inspiring updates. However, sometimes budgets aren’t quite as big as we would like them to be but there are many ways that you can update your home without having to spend a fortune.

Throws and scatter cushions can be swapped and changed depending on your mood and the season, and these can really transform the look and feel of your room. Vibrant colours can bring more uplifting vibes, where neutral tones can create calm and relaxing hues.

Why not create a statement wall by adding a fresh coat of paint or wallpaper on one wall? Maybe consider adding a statement piece of artwork too.

Your bed is essentially the centre piece of your bedroom. Therefore, if you’re looking to bring some more life to your bedroom design, then there’s no better way to do it than by updating your bedding.

Changing the window dressings in any room can also be a simple way to completely transform the look and feel of your room, whether you go for traditional curtains, sheer floaty voile or a set of new blinds.

Adding a vase of fresh or artificial flowers to any room can create a feature and brightens up your room and your mood. Remember the smallest of changes can make such a big difference.

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Introducing bespoke mature living in Wilmslow Sanctuary, Wilmslow is an exclusive, gated community offering a collection of stunning 2 & 3 bedroom cottages and apartments set in an enviable Cheshire location.

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Gennaro Contaldo

Italian chef and restauranteur known for his association with his British protégé Jamie Oliver and his partnership with fellow Italian chef Antonio Carluccio and their television series 'Two Greedy Italians'. Here we present recipes from his new book 'Gennaro's Pasta Perfecto'.

RIGATONI ALLA ZOZZANA This robust Roman recipe takes its name from zozza, which in Roman dialect usually means ‘dirty’, but in the case of this recipe means ‘rich’, because all sorts of ingredients are added. It’s a cross between the other classic Roman pasta dishes cacio e pepe and carbonara, and uses up all the typical leftovers, making it a substantial but extremely delicious dish.

Serves 4 300 g/101/2 oz rigatoni pasta 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 100 g/31/2 oz pancetta, finely chopped 100 g/31/2 oz Italian pork sausage, skinned and crumbled 1 egg yolk 30 g/1 oz/scant 1/2 cup grated Pecorino, plus extra for sprinkling 2 tbsp single (light) cream sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil and cook the pasta until al dente (check the instructions on your packet for cooking time).

Heat the olive oil in a frying pan (skillet) set over a medium heat, add the onion and sweat for 1 minute.

Add the pancetta and sausage meat, and sauté for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, whisk together the egg yolk, grated Pecorino and cream, along with some salt and pepper, in a small bowl.

Drain the cooked pasta, add to the pan with the pancetta and sausage meat, mix well and cook for 1 minute over a high heat. Remove from the heat and mix in the creamy mixture.

Serve immediately, with an extra sprinkling of black pepper and Pecorino.

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PEPERONI RIPIENI DI PASTA Filled vegetables are very common throughout Italy and started off as a cucina povera dish to make the veggies go further, adding whatever ingredients were available. Commonly, (bell) peppers are baked and then filled and the addition of pasta makes this dish a very different and enjoyable way to eat our favourite Italian staple.When you first roast the peppers, make sure you do not overcook them – they need to be sturdy to be filled with the pasta mixture. I have used red and yellow peppers as they are sweeter, but you could use the green variety too, if you prefer.

Serves 4-6 6 mixed (bell) peppers (yellow and red) 300 g/10 ½ oz sedanini pasta or pennette (small penne) 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling 1 garlic clove, left whole and squashed 4 anchovy fillets 20 black pitted olives 2 tsp capers 300 g/101/2 oz baby plum tomatoes, halved 10 basil leaves, roughly torn 125 g/41/2 oz mozzarella, cut into small cubes sea salt Preheat the oven to 200oC fan/220oC/425oF/gas mark 7.

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Slice the tops off the peppers and scoop out the seeds inside with a spoon. Replace the tops on the peppers to resemble little hats. Put them into a baking dish or onto a baking sheet and roast for about 15 minutes, until the peppers soften but are not mushy.

Meanwhile, bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil and cook the pasta until al dente (check the instructions on your packet for cooking time).

Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over a medium heat, add the garlic and anchovies, and sweat until the anchovies have melted.

Add the olives, capers, tomatoes and basil, cover with a lid and cook over a medium–low heat for about 7 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft. Discard the garlic.

Drain the pasta and add to the tomato sauce, mixing well to combine over a high heat for a minute or so. Remove from the heat, then stir in the mozzarella.

Reduce the oven temperature to 180oC fan/200oC/400oF/ gas mark 6.

Drizzle a little extra-virgin olive oil into a baking dish. Place the peppers in the dish and fill them with the pasta mixture, covering them with their little ‘hats’. Drizzle with a little more olive oil and bake in the oven for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven, leave to rest for a couple of minutes, then serve.

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Bolton’s Award Winning Market

LINGUINE AL CARTOCCIO CON GAMBERI E PESTO This light pasta, steam-baked with king prawns (jumbo shrimp), will surely delight your guests as they open their parcels of delicious goodness! Steam-baking is not only a feast for the eyes, but a lovely light way of cooking that locks all the flavours in. I have used ready-foiled parchment paper, but if you can’t find it, use a sheet of parchment paper inside a sheet of foil and make sure you wrap tightly so that none of the juices can escape during cooking.

Serves 4 150 ml/5 fl oz/ 2/3 cup Basil Pesto (see page 168 or use a readymade variety) extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling 8 raw king prawns (jumbo shrimp), cleaned 125 ml/4 fl oz/½ cup white wine

sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 4 slices of lemon and a few basil leaves, to garnish Preheat the oven to 180oC fan/200oC/400oF/gas mark 6.

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

THE NORTH WEST’S

....

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

Well worth a visit!

Bolton Market has it all.

Bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil and cook the pasta for half of the cooking time stated on the packet. Drain well, mix with half of the pesto sauce and set aside.

Spread 4 x foil-lined parchment paper sheets out on your work surface (foil-side down) and drizzle each with a little extra-virgin olive oil. Divide the linguine into 4 portions and place a portion on each sheet, top each with 2 king prawns, followed by the remaining pesto and a little salt and pepper.

Drizzle white wine over each portion and a little extra-virgin olive oil. Wrap the parcels well, place on a baking sheet and bake in the hot oven for 12 minutes.

Bolton

Remove from the oven and serve each parcel on an individual plate withCouncil a slice of lemon each and a few basil leaves to garnish.

Extracted from Gennaro’s Pasta Perfecto

by Gennaro Contaldo. Photography Adriana Contaldo.

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

How To Find Us Bolton Market, Ashburner Street, Bolton BL1 1TQ. Contact: 01204 336825

Email: bolton.markets@bolton.gov.uk

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

www.bolton.gov.uk

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GARDEN | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

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

Create a window in a boundary wall

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

It’s a new year. Time to start afresh in the garden and turn those ideas you’ve been dreaming about over winter into reality. Whether a major transformation or simply disguising an ugly drain cover, making plans and acting on them is exciting and rejuvenating for

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

Field scabious is a magnet for bees

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

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

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

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

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

succulents. If you’ve got a large expanse of patio that you want to keep for entertaining, it’s a simple way of softening the look of it and makes the space much more inviting and individual. In the same way see a broken slab as a planting opportunity rather than an eyesore. Choose drought tolerant types that are happy with limited root space like Thymus serpyllum, houseleeks and aubretia.

Less hard landscaping is good for the environment too.

Take it easy

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

Get the seasons covered Whatever the season you can never predict the weather. A veranda or gazebo will take all the guesswork out of the equation, leaving you free to entertain outdoors whenever you want or just relax and enjoy the garden year-round under cover from rain or full-on sun.

Add water Tap into the relaxing sound of running water. These days we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to designs and size of water features. From traditional ponds with built in electrics for larger plots to solar fountains for smaller ones, water adds an extra

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

Make it an inviting space year-round by choosing designs made from energy efficient structured insulated panels, which are also tougher than timber-framed buildings. Look for a professional firm working with these materials who can provide a free survey and advice on any planning restrictions. dimension to your outdoor space and also encourages wildlife. Make it a focal point or use it in amongst planting or a quiet corner for added interest. A still water feature, hidden from view ready to be discovered, is effective too as it provides an element of surprise.

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

Think outside the border Don’t confine plants to borders and patio pots. Create extra space for them to grow in by lifting slabs and planting up the gaps with tough rock plants, low growing herbs and

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

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

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LEISURE

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

5TH MARCH - STOCKPORT ACOUSTIC FOLK CLUB

Stockport Acoustic Folk Club, aka Folk at the Midland, meets on alternate Thursdays at 9:00pm. All who enjoy live acoustic music whether folk, blues or country are welcome to come along to sing and play. Or, just listen and enjoy a drink in this warm friendly club. The club has been running since 2008, and we are one of the few outlets for folk music and blues, or indeed any form of acoustic music, in and around South Manchester and Stockport. We have many accomplished musicians on guitar, mandolin, banjo, whistles and often enjoy surprise visits from nationally acclaimed performers.

20-22 FEBRUARY - GARRICK YOUTH THEATRE FEBRUARY PRODUCTION

Three Gods are on a journey to find out if there are any good people left on Earth.

Only Shen Te, a good-hearted prostitute, offers them shelter. With the money they give her she opens a tobacco shop. At once everyone needs her help. Her livelihood is in danger. Worse, she is falling in love with Sun, a pilot, who is robbing her blind. Her hardhearted cousin Shui Ta arrives to protect her but who is he and how can good people stay good in a world of poverty and cruelty?

This new translation by David Harrower of The Good Soul of Szechuan was developed for the production at the Young Vic in 2008 and is based upon a previously unpublished version of the play. It returns to many of the themes from the original manuscript which Brecht later discarded, performed at a faster pace with more vibrant dialogue.The Good Soul of Szechuan will be performed by our Senior Youth Theatre Group. They have consistently put on inventive and exciting plays that are always to a high standard.You won’t want to miss this!

Stockport Garrick Theatre Exchange Street, Wellington Road South Stockport, Cheshire, SK3 0EJ www.stockportgarrick.co.uk

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27-29 FEBRUARY - NO MAN'S LAND

A quintessentially Pinteresque cocktail of witty banter, mystery and intimidation. Two ageing writers, one highly successful but an alcoholic and one an unknown, meet in a Hampstead pub and continue their drinking into the night at the former’s stately home nearby.

As the pair become increasingly inebriated, and their stories more and more unbelievable, their lively conversation soon turns into a revealing power game; are the two already acquainted? Matters become further complicated by the return home of two sinister younger aides who do not take kindly to having an uninvited guest in their midst.

No Man’s Land premiered at the National Theatre in 1975 with John Gielgud and Ralph Richardson as the leads. This production is transferring to the Garrick from Chads Theatre and all proceeds will be donated to our Basement Redevelopment Fund.

Stockport Garrick Theatre Exchange Street, Wellington Road South Stockport, Cheshire, SK3 0EJ www.stockportgarrick.co.uk

The Midland, 19 Wellington Road North, Heaton Norris, Stockport, Cheshire, SK4 1HJ folkmusic.wixsite.com/stockport-acoustic

7-14 MARCH - SILVER LINING

On a dark and stormy night at the Silver Retirement Home, five elderly women trade stories of their lives. Outside, storm floods are rising - and no rescue team is in sight.

Our ladies realise that, in order to survive, they must do what they have done their entire lives – do it themselves! Silver Lining depicts five feisty women, by no means as helpless as society seems to think they are, who come together one treacherous night to recreate The Great Escape – senior citizen style!

Stockport Garrick Theatre Exchange Street, Wellington Road South Stockport, Cheshire, SK3 0EJ www.stockportgarrick.co.uk

28-29 MARCH - THE MANCHESTER BIKE SHOW

REDDISH VALE COUNTRY PARK

The Manchester Bike Show returns for its ninth successful year. See over 750 bikes of all classes all under one roof. In addition to the new 2020 models, the event also features a stunning display of over 750 modern, racing, classic, custom, off road and street fighter machines from clubs and private individuals.

The Park offers a wide variety of pursuits for all. Download an audio-tour of the park, follow the ‘Heritage Wander’ trail or the new geo-caching trail. Trails, bridleways and cycle routes link the Tame Valley to the Etherow/Goyt Valley and the surrounding area. For cycle enthusiasts, there is now also a 5km Cycle Trial and for anglers there are 2 large mill ponds available for fishing.

Enjoy all the thrills and sounds of the live action bike zone. With thrilling stunt shows, live music and a live stage with a multitude of guest stars. 2017’s star guests included Carl Fogarty MBE on the Zona stand, and Olympic gold medal winner Jason Kenny CBE who was presented with a brand new Kawasaki by Bolton Motorcycles.

There is a small visitor centre offering park information on walks, trails, event and task days, also featuring displays on the area's heritage, wildlife and future and displays of work by local artists.

Visit the massive retail village, with over 100 trade exhibitors, the Manchester Bike Show delivers an unrivalled retail village with leathers, helmets, accessories, parts and services, so make sure you grab a bargain at the show.

Two minutes away is Reddish Vale Farm, a delightful small animal farm, giving children an insight in to the countryside environment. The farm has a wide variety of farmyard animals and opportunities for petting baby animals.

EventCity, Phoenix Way, Off Barton Dock Road, TRAFFORDCITY, Manchester M41 7TB www.manchesterbikeshow.com/

Reddish Vale Visitor Centre, Mill Lane, Reddish, Stockport, Cheshire, SK5 7HE http://www.reddishvalecountrypark.com/

Head out in to the wider estate for walks through woodland and across moor that take in spectactular vistas; walk to Paddock Cottage for views across Manchester and the Cheshire Plain or if you are feeling adventurous, head to Bowstones where you can see seven counties! For those looking for a gentler stroll, head in to the garden which is open everyday.

Disley, Stockport SK12 2NR 01663 762023 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme

A raucous rebellious gig theatre show about a forgotten part of British history.

On the 9th of June 1817, Jeremiah Brandreth assembles a crew of malcontents in a pub near Nottingham. Their plan is to march on London, overthrow the government, wipe out the National Debt and end poverty forever. What Jeremiah doesn’t know is that there is a spy in his ranks with other ideas…

Jeremiah tells the incredible true story of the much-misunderstood Luddite rebellion – a movement that spanned the whole of northern England and had more British soldiers fighting it than Napoleon. Ever thought about a House of Lords debate staged as a rap battle? Accompanied by a cellist, violinist and guitarist fusing hip hop beats with cinematic orchestration the story is told through the lens of the life of Jeremiah Brandreth, the instigator of the Luddites’ final stand and the last man in British History to be beheaded by axe for High Treason.

Waterside 1 Waterside Plaza, Sale, Trafford, M33 7ZF watersidearts.org/whats-on

LYME

Whether you fancy heading out for a walk or taking part in many of the activities and events that take place throughout the year, you will be sure to have a wonderful time in the glorious 1400 acre deer park.

3RD MAY - JEREMIAH

22ND APRIL - FAR GONE

Far Gone is a gut kicking physical performance with humour, poetry, and the horrors of being a child soldier. It follows the life of Okumu, an innocent boy living with a good family in Northern Uganda.

When his village is attacked by Joseph Kony’s Lords Resistance Army (LRA), him and his brother are captured and their lives are forever changed. We follow Okumu through this transformation from boy to child soldier.

Waterside 1 Waterside Plaza, Sale, Trafford, M33 7ZF watersidearts.org/whats-on

8TH ,9TH ,10TH MAY - CHESHIRE FEST2020

Welcome to Cheshire Fest 2020! This is our third year in action at Manchester Rugby Club, Cheadle Hulme and we can’t wait to get going once again on NEW DATES; Bank Holiday Friday 8th May, Saturday 9th May and Sunday 10th May 2020.

Boyzlife, Bongo’s Bingo, Big Top, Acoustic Stage, Street Food.

Manchester Rugby Club, Cheadle Hulme www.cheshirefest.co.uk

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QUALITY DENTURES MEAN A QUALITY LIFESTYLE

THE IMPORTANCE OF DENTURES

T

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

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

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

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

DIFFICULTIES IN CONSTRUCTING A GOOD SET OF DENTURES Constructing a functional and aesthetically pleasing set of dentures is the most difficult task in dentistry. We are not only replacing lost teeth, but also lost tissue matter and bone. In other words, we have to re-create your facial features as they were before the loss of your natural teeth.

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In most cases we do not know what your teeth looked like, what size they were or what position they were in originally. We have a few indications but mostly we have to rely on our visual and artistic judgement.

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

CHOICE OF DENTURES

HOW LONG SHOULD DENTURES LAST? The question we should ask is, how long will my dentures be functional for? Dentures can last twenty or more years, but will lose their function (chewing ability, proper fit etc.) probably after two years. This will depend on many factors: 1.

Quality of dentures.

2.

Age of Patient.

There are three main quality standards in denture materials:

3.

General health of patient.

4. Any drastic change in weight.

Denture Base Acrylics: standard quality, high impact much stronger non brittle and the latest thermoplastic.

DENTURES NEED REGULAR SERVICING

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

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

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

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

HEALTH

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

50 PLUS MAGAZINE

SUMMARY

1.

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

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

sonically cleaned.

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

3.

Have a new set made every 5 years if possible.

4.

Keep a spare set for emergencies.

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

uncomfortable.

YOUR DENTURES NEED ATTENTION 1.

When they become loose.

2. When teeth or denture base

discolours.

3.

When tooth surfaces become flat.

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

5. When you develop deep lines around your mouth.

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

7. When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed.

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

servicing instructions, and a cleaning kit.

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

the A service that will make you smile!

Offering Denture Perfection

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

DENTURES WITH WORN DOWN TEETH Teeth can be replaced with a new set.

Major improvements in Facial Features

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

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

• • • • •

SHOULD I HAVE A SPARE SET OF DENTURES MADE?

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

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

WHERE DO I GO TO HAVE A GOOD SET OF DENTURES MADE? Every dentist can make dentures, but not all of them will specialise in denture making.

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

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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HEALTH

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE

HOW BEST TO COPE WITH A LOVED ONE WHO HAS DEMENTIA It can be very upsetting to see your loved one go through dementia. If you feel overwhelmed by the level of care needed for your loved one, do not hesitate to contact professional help or book an appointment with your GP. There are a number of excellent voluntary agencies that support carers as well as sufferers.

Anne Inglis

Director

HOW TO HELP SOMEONE WITH DEMENTIA With currently over 850,000 dementia sufferers in the UK, including one in three people over the age of 65, it is likely that someone in your life will be affected by dementia. To follow are some tips on how to help someone with dementia and how to take care of yourself as carers.

Keep your loved one as appropriately active as possible to stimulate the brain and improve overall mood. Keeping up their confidence and making their lives feel valued is vital, as is keeping up a healthy diet.

If the person finds speaking difficult, speak slightly more slowly and simply, and be aware of your tone of voice even if you feel frustrated. Having good eye contact will help them focus on you and your conversation. Try not to speak on their behalf in a conversation and give them time to answer.

labelling where things are in the kitchen and have important phone numbers by the phone.

Practical solutions can make a huge difference to daily life.

It is also important to attempt to make their life as safe as possible. Forgetfulness could mean leaving windows and doors open and not switching off appliances. Try to make sure this doesn’t occur with regular checks and phone calls.

Understand that moods and personality traits of a loved one with dementia will change.

Sometimes someone with dementia can get very upset by a sudden movement or sound so bear this in mind with any activities you do together.

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Everyone will experience caring in their own way. There may be days when you feel like you can cope well, and other days when you don’t. Many carers feel torn between different responsibilities such as their own family, work and their relationship with their partner. Remember you are only one person and there is only so much you can do.

Supporting a relative with dementia can be hard for the whole family, and will mean changes and disruptions to everyday life. Talk things through with your children if they are affected by any changes.

CHOOSING CARE AT HOME Homecare is the first choice for people who need help with their personal care to lead independent lives. Many people use a homecare service as an alternative to moving into a care home.

Homecare, also known as domiciliary care, is a term for support provided in the home by careworkers to assist someone with their daily life.

Organise an appropriate treat or outing to include the person with dementia, such as a walk in the park or perhaps take them out to lunch to somewhere they might enjoy.

Look over old photographs and spend time with them when you can.

Offer practical tips for how to make life easier such as writing instructions on how to turn on the washing machine, or a

Dementia can have a considerable emotional and practical impact on those supporting them. Accept offers of help with little things for example if someone else can the school run, or do some shopping for you. Ensure that you are still enjoying your life and that you are getting out to do things that you enjoy. As is the case with any carers, the role of caring is easier if you are refreshed yourself.

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

Enabling people to remain at home helps them maintain personal independence, comfort and contact with their local community. Homecare is flexible, with just the right amount of assistance given at any one time.

Bluebird Care UK provides high quality homecare and support to keep you safe and comfortable in your own home.

We want to support you to maintain your chosen lifestyle. We believe that each customer is unique, with their own individual preferences and needs. So, we keep you in control and provide you with the homecare and support you want, where and when you want it. It’s your life and your care, so it must be your way.

The services we offer Choose our flexible homecare services, anything from a 30 minute check call, to 24 hour live in care. We can offer short term help (following an illness or because your usual carer is having a break), or longer term homecare and support. Our dedicated team of homecare workers are fully trained to: Assist with a ‘good morning’ start to the day, helping you to get up, wash, shower or bathe, dress and have breakfast l Remind or assist you to take your medicines and collect or return medication l

from your pharmacy or dispensing GP surgery l Prepare meals with or for you and assist you at mealtimes l Collect your pension for you or with you l Shop with you or help you to make a shopping list, go to the shops, come back and put it all away l Help with your laundry or ironing and keeping your home clean and tidy l Support you with social activities such as going out for a walk, attending a day centre, visiting friends or family, going to your church or club etc l Give a little pampering when you need it – the occasional visit to organise bathing, clean clothes, fresh bedding and a thoughtfully prepared meal before bedtime l At the end of each day, some help with getting ready for bed l Overnight ‘sleeper’ or waking support, respite care or a 24 hour live in service l Some of our offices can also offer homecare and support to children and their families either on a regular basis or for short term respite care

CARE VISITS AT HOME We care passionately Bluebird Care (Stockport)

238A Wellington Road South, Stockport SK2 6NW.

Telephone: 0161 477 0200 What we offer We offer everything from personal care to shopping, cleaning or social visits. In fact everything you need to stay in the comfort of your own home.

Alternative Bluebird Care offers a realistic cost effective alternative to residential care.

With familiar friends, relatives and possessions around, Bluebird Care ‘just happens’.

Our staff Our staff are caring, trained to give medication and police checked.

www.bluebirdcare.co.uk

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HEALTH

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE

Stockport residents now have access to 24/7 falls support, thanks to Carecall’s new technology enabled living service.

Carecall’s service will support Stockport Council’s new vision will aims to tackle health inequalities in the borough and enable the population to own its own health and wellbeing - ensuring that by 2035, Stockport will be one of the best places to live in the UK.

FLU vs COLDS

BY DR. RICCARDO DI CUFFA – HEAD GP AT YOUR DOCTOR With winter upon us, there are lots of things we can do to help ourselves try to stay healthy and well during this season but how do we know when we have the flu versus a bad cold in the first instance?

ibuprofen. If you don’t feel better within a week then give your GP or 111 a call so they can advise you. If your temperature remains consistently high over several days, that is also the time to call your GP.

A FLU VS A COLD Which is it? – The flu is usually far more severe than a cold and can come on quite quickly and for certain people who may be more vulnerable it can be dangerous.

The flu is caused by a viral infection in the upper respiratory tract in the nose, throat and/ or bronchi. Usually it is more severe if it becomes a secondary bacterial infection in the lungs.

Think of others - The winter is the busiest period for doctors and hospitals and the flu and colds are highly contagious, particularly for other vulnerable patients who may be waiting to see a doctor in the waiting room. Think hard before you make an appointment to come to see a GP for the flu or a cold but if you are concerned then give them a call to seek advice.

Symptoms? If your symptoms include muscle and body aches, a sudden fever with a temperature of 38C or above, a dry cough, a sore throat, headache and trouble sleeping, all or some of which goes on for many days then it is more likely you have the flu. Having said that a temperature can be a symptom of a cold and you can feel awful with a bad cold too.

Bacterial vs. Viral - Antibiotics are only for bacterial infections and are useless in treating viral infections. As well as killing the bad bacteria, antibiotics also kill the good bacteria which are important for keeping us healthy, particularly in our gut.

Over-using antibiotics can also make your body immune to them meaning they can’t prevent and fight off the infection when you really need them to.

How should I treat the flu or a really bad cold? For either condition the best treatment is to rest, get as much sleep as you can, stay hydrated, keep warm, eat when you can and if you need to bring your temperature down or have pain then take paracetamol and/ or

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Chest pain - If you have chest pain or can’t breathe properly, seek medical assistance urgently to rule out any serious complications.

As of January 2020, Carecall have launched a new universal offer to anyone living in Stockport, which provides them with uncapped access to a 24/7 ‘monitoring and falls response service’ and provides them with all the technology they need to stay safe and independent at home. This will help to reduce the strain on other Health and Social care services across Stockport and enable the person to self-manage their own care needs.

The easy to use and discreet technology is installed free of charge and every customer receives an alarm unit and pendant which can be worn in a number of ways. Carecall can also provide those assessed as requiring further support with technology such as a ‘fall detector’, ‘radio linked smoke detector’ or ‘property exit sensors’ depending on their specific needs.

This technology can reliably alert the Carecall team if a customer needs emergency support other than just for a fall at home. Whatever the emergency, our dedicated team will work with the customer to reassure them and organise a quick and appropriate response.

If a Stockport resident subscribes to Carecall’s 'Monitoring and Falls Response' service and has fallen but is not injured, Carecall’s local team will travel to their home to get them back on their feet using specialist lifting equipment which safely manoeuvres the lift. They will do this no matter the time, day or night, as the service operates 24hrs a day. If a resident is injured, Carecall will call them an ambulance and follow up to ensure they’re safe, notifying family or friends as necessary.

Carecall’s telemonitoring and response offering is a Stockport Council service that is delivered

by Stockport Homes Ltd and has been operating in the borough since 1984. The new 24 hour service is a huge change for this long established institution.

Anyone wishing to take up Carecall’s Technology Enabled Living services should contact them on 0161 218 1655 or visit their website www.carecall24.co.uk

Carecall Living well at home

“ An arthritis diagnosis in my 60s was

scary. I’ve always been active running after grandkids, shopping with friends and helping out my community but I soon learnt I could still do what I love, just sometimes I need a little support. If I’m strong enough to stay independent, so are you!

“

Linda, 73, Arthritis.

Carecall are proud of Linda and they're proud to help the people of Stockport live well at home.

Carecall is a 24/7 alarm monitoring and falls response service. Their Stockport based team will organise help for you or your loved one, at the touch of a button.

With Carecall, you are never alone. The service is free for the first 6-weeks with no installation costs. After that, it is just £6 per week for 24/7 cover!

Visit www.carecall24.co.uk or call 0161 218 1655.

Supported by

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What Is Chiropractic Care?

When we talk about chiropractic care, it’s important to understand that the nervous system and spine are integral to your long-term health. The spine should move in a certain way and continuously during the day. As humans, we sit too much and don’t move enough. It starts to affect the function of the spine and can impair brain function. And since the brain is the master system of the body it can begin to have a negative effect on those areas.

“I’m in pain” “Can Chiropractic help me?”

OFFER PRICE £25 Expiry date 30th April 2020

Your initial visit will include: • A private consultation with chiropractor • X rays if necessary (normally £70) • Spinal examination, orthopaedic and neurological tests • A confidential report of our findings • An explanation of our treatments procedure if we determine Chiropractic can help you

For a limited period we will complete a full consultation, examination, X ray (if necessary) and a full report of findings all for

£25.00 (Normally £120.00) Offer open to new patients only.

We treat these conditions • Headaches, back pain, neck pain • Prevention of migraines • Muscle spasms, joint pain • Tired all the time, tension

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms please call our clinic today for an appointment

Stockport Chiropractic Clinic 466 Didsbury Road, Heaton Mersey, SK4 3BS 0161 432 6708 Marple Chiropractic Clinic 8-10 Derby Way, Marple SK6 7AH 0161 449 5006 www.chiropractichealthsolutions.co.uk

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CHIROPRACTIC CARE Chiropractors use a range of techniques to reduce pain, improve function and increase mobility, including hands-on manipulation of the spine. As well as manual treatment, chiropractors are able to offer a package of care which includes advice on self-help, therapeutic exercises and lifestyle changes.

Chiropractic treatment involves safe, often gentle, specific spinal manipulation to free joints in the spine or other areas of the body that are not moving properly. Apart from manipulation, chiropractors may use a variety of techniques including ice, heat, ultrasound, exercise and acupuncture as well as advice about posture and lifestyle.

BACK PAIN Back pain is very common. Most people will suffer one or more episodes of back pain during their lives. In many cases, it starts suddenly and gets better quickly, without the need for any treatment.

However, back pain can be painful, debilitating and persistent, and some people suffer repeated episodes. It can also be associated with other symptoms, such as leg pain or sciatica. It may start following a specific incident, such as bending awkwardly or lifting a heavy weight.

Or it can develop gradually, perhaps as a result of poor posture, an uncomfortable work position or repetitive strain.

NECK PAIN Neck pain is very common. Most people will suffer one or more episodes of neck pain during their lives. In many cases, it starts suddenly and gets better quickly, without the need for any treatment.

However, neck pain can be painful, debilitating and persistent, and some people suffer repeated episodes. It can also be associated with other symptoms, such as arm pain or headaches. Neck pain may start following a traumatic incident, such as a road traffic collision, or it may start gradually, perhaps as a result of poor posture or an uncomfortable work position.

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HEALTH

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BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY (BHRT): ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW WHY MIGHT YOU NEED BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONE THERAPY?

HOW LONG BEFORE BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONES START WORKING?

The hormones within your body control most of your body’s basic functions, and work as an internal communication system between your body’s cells. Everything from your daily mood, energy, digestion, appetite, immune system and libido is controlled by hormones, which is why when these hormones are out-of-sync or unbalanced, it can have a huge impact on your physical and mental health and well-being. If you suffer with any of the following, BHRT could be a really great solution for you:

You will see improvement within the first 2 to 3 weeks of therapy, but it will take up to 8 weeks to feel the full effect. An experienced medical practitioner will try to achieve the best outcomes and results with the lowest possible dosage of bio-identical hormones.

Hot flushes ● Night sweats ● Vaginal dryness ● Loss of interest in sex ● Pain during sex ● Problems sleeping ● Loss of energy ● Fatigue ● Loss of muscle mass ● Weight gain ● Foggy thinking ● Mood changes ● Memory loss ●

HOW CAN I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT BHRT? For more information about BHRT, contact The Menopause Clinic in Heywood today. The Menopause Clinic is based within the beautiful Face Medical Clinic, and is run

by Deborah Vines, who is also the Owner and Founder of both clinics, and has specialised in both BioIdentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) and Aesthetics for over 15 years.

Deborah Vines is a Registered General Nurse, Independent Nurse Prescriber and the Medical Director of The Menopause Clinic based in Heywood. She has been involved with Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy for eight years and owns one of the longest established Medical Aesthetics Clinics in the North West.

WHAT ARE BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONES? Bio-identical hormones are different from those used in traditional HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy), as they are chemically identical to those that our bodies produce naturally. Bio-identical hormones are made from plant estrogens and based on a substance known as “Diosgenin”, whereas in HRT, hormones are often created synthetically.

BHRT FOR THE MENOPAUSE BHRT is effective in treating both men and women when their hormone levels drop or become unbalanced. BHRT is most frequently used to ease the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause in women.

Bio-identical Bio-identical hormone hormone replacement replacement therapy therapy (inclding male andropause)

(including male andropause)

WHEN SHOULD YOU GET A HORMONE HEALTH CHECK? Recent research has shown that women are experiencing perimenopause and menopause at much earlier ages than is predicted.

Sometimes, by the age of 40, a woman can be totally depleted of normal levels of estrogen, have lost almost all of their progesterone, and have lost more than half of their testosterone. These fluctuating levels and hormone imbalances can cause serious health issues in some cases, and it’s for this reason that it is encouraged to get your hormone levels assessed sooner rather than later - don’t wait until symptoms are strong and affecting your daily life!

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T. 01706 691 683 info@themenopauseclinic.com www.themenopauseclinic.com Face Medical Clinic, 15 Hornby St, Heywood, Manchester, OL10 1AA

Bankfield House Care Home Helping you enjoy life

Bankfield House aims to provide residents with a

• Up to 30 residents, 24 single and 3 Twin Rooms • 3 Lounges / 2 Dining Rooms / Large Conservatory

secure, relaxed and homely environment in which their

• Permanent / Short Term / Respite Stay

care, well being and comfort is of prime importance.

• Day Care Service

Our highly trained staff are dedicated carers who

• Home Made Cooked Food

value the concept of person centred care.

• Social Activities on a Daily Basis

Core Values Of Care

• Visiting Practitioners

• Beautifully Appointed Formal Gardens • Regular Outings

• Privacy • Dignity • Rights • Independence • Choice •

• Weekly Hairdressing

• Fulfilment • Security • Respect • Equality •

• CCTV/ 24hr Security

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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ELDDIS CHATSWORTH SWIFT CELEBRATE SWIFT CELEBRATION COACHMAN FESTIVAL Unique Styling – Superbly Equipped – Excellent Value

BEAUTIFUL INTERIORS

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MIKE HODGES 07939 033 974 mike@glossopcaravans.co.uk

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EXCLUSIVE DESIGNS

EDDIE COLLINS 07956 970 383 ec1@glossopcaravans.co.uk