ABC Magazine: Whitley Bay Edition, September - October 2021

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WHITLEY BAY EDITION | SEP / OCT 2021

SQUARE RESTORATION

Work begins to recreate historic town Square

Established

2008

PUZZLES INSIDE

CELEBRATE AT THE COAST Seasonal events at Spanish City

FANCY A BREAK?

A UK coach trip with United Group Travel could be just the ticket

CAN YOU KICK IT?

Women’s walking football group appeals for members W H I T L E Y BAY

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Care visits at home We care passionately

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TYNEMOUTH'S FIRST ZERO WASTE PLASTIC-FREE STORE

WE SELL: DRIED FOODS CLEANING PRODUCTS HOUSEHOLD GOODS TOILETRIES Come down to Buy The Kilo and purchase your goods by weight: as much or as little as you need.

Bring your own containers and re-stock your pantry.

Jars, bottles and paper bags available in store.

Our friendly team are on hand to help you!

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WELCOME TO ABC MAGAZINE Welcome to the Whitley Bay edition of ABC, your bi-monthly independent local magazine.

ABC is distributed free of charge to thousands of homes in Whitley Bay, Whitley Lodge and Monkseaton or you can view it online via www.yourabc.co.uk

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Comprehensive footcare from experienced clinicians

Each edition of ABC brings you a range of adverts and features including, local news, business features, health, recipes and more.

Interested in advertising in ABC? Please call Richard on 07526 522272 or email info@yourabc.co.uk

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Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor the editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other clause. R Wilson Advertising does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All Rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior permission of the publisher.

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LO C A L N E W S

EXPANSION TO LOCAL INDEPENDENT CINEMA MEANS EVEN MORE CHOICE! Right in the heart of Whitley Bay, the Jam Jar Cinema offers the best in local, friendly, affordable, inclusive and diverse cinema, showing a good range of new releases and old classics.

Following their expansion in 2019, Jam Jar Cinema now boasts three screens, two bar areas and a lift that makes it accessible for all.

While the bigger, multiplex cinemas concentrate on their screens, seats and sound, Jam Jar take these high standards as a given. Instead they prefer to focus their highly trained staff, maintaining excellent customer service and ensuring complete accessibility for all. They believe a trip to the cinema is unique. It's a delight, a treat and a pleasure - nothing else can beat it for sheer escapism and sense of wonder. It can transport you from the daily chores and routine to a different realm, place, time or even galaxy.

The name Jam Jar Cinema is a nod to historic times, where you used to be able to get into the cinema at a discounted rate, or for free, on production of a Jam Jar. 6

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This originated in North Tyneside and continued until the 1970’s when the value of glass dropped. By this time it had spread to cinemas all over the country, typically in areas of heavy industry: Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield and Glasgow; where it was known as J’eely Jar Cinema. But it started here in North Tyneside, so what better name for a community cinema than ... Jam Jar Cinema!

New releases being screened at Jam Jar this month include The Addams Family 2, Venom: Let There Be Carnage, Dune and No Time To Die - the long awaited Bond film.

And all of this is available at the centre of Whitley Bay! The Jam Jar Cinema means no transport headaches, no over-priced food and a relaxed, cosy, inviting bar to unwind in. They offer a cosy hug rather than a corporate handshake.

Jam jar always have friendly faces

to welcome you - not a soulless machine on the wall. Finally, just like you, Jam Jar staff are moviefanatics - they eat, drink, think film.

The team can't wait to see the latest flick and they love choosing the best of what's to come for our community to enjoy.

Jam Jar are also doing everything they can to ensure that you are welcomed to a safe, socially distanced and enjoyable cinema experience.

If you have any specific questions then you can contact them at info@ jamjarcinema.com, but they do have a dedicated Covid page on their website, with a Covid-19 FAQ's section, which you can check out first, just in case they've already answered your question.

▪ Jam Jar Cinema, 18-24 Park Avenue, Whitley Bay NE26 1DG www.jamjarcinema.com

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LOCAL NEWS

Winter Events at Spanish City The iconic Spanish City was returned to it’s former glory in 2018, to rekindle its love affair with the residents and visitors of Whitley Bay. Spanish City hosts everything from Christmas markets and corporate exhibitions to birthday parties and spectacular weddings. Awardwinning Trenchers Restaurant and Takeaway, fine-dining 1910 restaurant, Valerie’s Tearoom and The Champagne Bar take permanent homes inside the historic building.

They have also built a name for our stunning afternoon teas, which can be enjoyed under the dome in The Gallery or with sea views in 1910.

Here is a selection of some of the upcoming events you can look forward to at this historic local venue:

HALLOWEEN TRIBUTE: LADY GAGA ROCKY HORROR SHOW Sunday 31st October, 7pm

The perfect Halloween treat for all of you “Little Monsters” out there. The fabulous Lady Gaga tribute is coming to Spanish City on the scariest night of the year. And, to make it extra spooky, there will be a Rocky Horror Show twist.

So get your paws up and join them this Halloween. Walk the red carpet on arrival so you really feel like the star that you are, then indulge in a stunning two-course meal and dance the night away to the live singer, followed by DJ until 12.30am. £25 per person.

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHT SWITCH ON

Sunday 21st November 5pm – 7pm Kick off the festive season on Sunday 21st November and come along for the stunning Christmas tree light switch on. On display will be a tremendous glittering tree, awarded 8

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the Best Christmas Tree in Europe in 2019, so the switch on is not to be missed.

Under the grandeur of the Dome, listen to carol singers, sip on mulled wine and eat mince pies, while children are entertained by stilt walkers, bauble decorating and balloon modelling. Let the countdown commence! £3.00 per person or free entry if you book and dine in Trenchers or 1910 between 4pm – 7pm.

CHRISTMAS MARKET

Friday 26th November – Sunday 28th November The annual Christmas Market, which received 8,000 visitors in 2019, features a variety of traditional stalls where you can buy unique, handcrafted gifts for your loved ones and stock up on local delicacies. There will be festive food stalls selling a variety of sweet and savoury treats, all handmade by the in-house team of chefs.

Make it extra special and have a meal in the award-winning Trenchers Restaurant or enjoy a Festive Afternoon Tea with stunning sea views in 1910.

Event times: Friday 26th 5pm – 9pm, Saturday 27th 10am – 5pm, Sunday 28th 10am – 5pm.

Entry fee: Advance booking: £2 per person, on the door: £3 per person.

Book an Afternoon Tea during the market and receive free entry.

CHRISTMAS TRIBUTE NIGHTS Are you organising a special gettogether with family and friends, or treating the team for all their hard work? These Christmas Tribute

Nights are the perfect way to celebrate the festive season.

You’ll enjoy a three-course meal with the perfect backdrop of the stunning sea views. Later let your hair down and dance until 12:30am with the resident DJ. Each Tribute night is £40.00 per person and are held in the St Mary’s Lighthouse Suite.

Thursday 2nd - Michael Bublé Is it really Christmas with Michael Bublé? Get in the festive spirit by singing along to all of Bublé’s Christmas hits.

Sunday 5th - Freddie Mercury The ultimate Freddie Mercury tribute act performs songs from a huge repertoire from every decade of Queen’s musical legacy and his solo career.

Thursday 9th – Tom Jones Come along for the ultimate Tom Jones tribute act performing songs from the pop sensations’ huge musical repertoire.

Sunday 12th – ABBA Celebrate a night of dazzling entertainment with a fantastic ABBA tribute act that will bring back to life all of your favourite singalong hits.

Thursday 16th – George Michael The ultimate George Michael tribute act performing songs from his Wham! and his solo days.

▪ For more details on all of these events, plus a comprehensive list of more events, visit www.spanishcity.co.uk

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BOOKS

North Tyneside annual fireworks display is back As we head into autumn, one of the most popular and traditional nights is Bonfire Night. Last year, of course, turned out to be a damp squib with the annual treat cancelled due to Covid-19.

Thankfully, this year we welcome back the ever popular North Tyneside annual fireworks display. The event attracts thousands of people every year, as the crowds flock to see the spectacular show overlooking the North Sea off the links at Whitley Bay. As well as the main event, there will also be fairground rides and refreshments starting from 6pm, with the display itself starting at 7pm and lasting for around 20 minutes. The display is always spectacular, with views of the Whitley Bay coastline, Spanish City, St Mary’s Lighthouse and the expanse of the North Sea offering the perfect setting.

If you are looking to get in from the cold and watch the spectacular display from cosier surroundings, the champagne bar and 1910 restaurant at the Spanish City could be for you. They boast floor-to-ceiling

panoramic windows - guaranteeing a perfect view of the fireworks.

Traffic in the area will be busy, so people are asked to be patient and considerate of both other drivers and local residents, and there is also the option of the Metro.

In the event of bad weather, the event will take place the following night. Please keep up to date, either on the Visit North Tyneside website or through the usual social media channels.

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New patients welcome · Hearing Care now available Pickard Opticians, 11 Ilfracombe Gardens,Whitley Bay NE26 3ND Tel: 0191 252 8975 | Open: Monday - Friday 9.00am- 1.00pm, 2.00pm - 5.30pm Stevens Optical Group, Unit 22 The Killingworth Centre, Killingworth NE12 6YT Tel: 0191 268 1317 | Open: Monday - Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm

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LO C A L N E W S

New report finds improvements needed in menopause support for women in North Tyneside

Healthwatch North Tyneside spoke to 65 women in the borough about their experiences of menopause support and found dissatisfaction with what is currently available.

In March, health and care champion Healthwatch North Tyneside undertook exploratory research into experiences of menopause support in the area, following a request for information that highlighted potential gaps in local provision.

Healthwatch received detailed responses to an online survey giving a clear insight into people’s experiences of the support and information available from local health providers.

Respondents said they felt poorly informed about what to expect during the menopause and struggled with symptoms for many years without realising the cause. Health, work, relationships, and quality of life were adversely affected.

Accessing information about menopause was described as a ‘minefield’. Respondents told Healthwatch that they wanted clear, reliable and comprehensive information and support.

The report highlighted the need for GPs to talk to women about options to manage their symptoms and not focus on HRT, and for specific training for GPs to diagnose menopause-related symptoms.

Healthwatch has shared the report with North Tyneside Clinical Commissioning Group, North Tyneside Living Well Locally Board, and with the local GPs responsible for training and education.

In response to the report additional GP training is being made available and a menopause services page will be added to the new Living Well North Tyneside website, a portal of local health and wellbeing information for North Tyneside residents.

Menopause, a subject that is still not often talked about openly, usually occurs between 45 and 55 years of age, but can occur for some before the age of 40. Most women experience symptoms, including hot flushes and anxiety, that can significantly impact their daily lives.

Menopausal women are the fastest growing demographic in the workforce (Professor Jo Brewis, co-author Government Report on Menopause). According to the Faculty of Occupational Medicine, almost 8 out of 10 of menopausal women are in work.

It’s estimated that there are around 13 million women who are currently peri or menopausal in the UK– that’s equal to one third of the entire UK female population.

Paul Jones, Director of Healthwatch North Tyneside said: “Improving menopause support in North Tyneside makes sense because it will enhance wellbeing and enable women to stay healthier for longer, potentially reducing later demands on local NHS services.

“The current level of support is disproportionate to the number of women affected and the impact it has on women’s personal and working lives.”

The full report is available to download at https://healthwatchnorthtyneside.co.uk/report/menopause-services

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Revolutionary Food Scheme Opens as part of Charity Building Refurbishment A new Food Membership Scheme which will help people living on the breadline feed their families has taken centre stage in North Shields – thanks to a TV interior designer.

George Bond became famous on 90s TV show ‘Better Homes’ with Carol Vorderman, and he has headed up the redevelopment of the Cedarwood Trust’s building on the Meadow Well Estate, North Shields.

The charity, which helped over 32,000 people across the North East during the first three months of the year, officially opened the building on Tuesday.

A potentially life-changing ‘Nourish Store’ has taken centre stage, with residents paying £4 a week membership to be able to take home up to £15 worth of food and household goods a week.

The revitalised hub also houses the Trust’s new Nourish Bistro, as well as its Nurture Academy, where people from complex backgrounds are able to train and earn industry-specific catering qualifications. The Trust aims to train 50 people in 2021.

The Trust’s ‘Step Up Into Care’ programme also provides training and qualifications in the care sector, while there is an entire timetable of community groups including Breastfeeding Support, Arty Play and wellbeing groups.

The redevelopment project has taken five months, and has been met with praise on the estate.

Charity CEO Wayne Dobson said: “I can’t believe the difference, and it seems the community feels the same way. Everyone who has walked through the door has responded really well to what we have done here.

“People have found it warm and welcoming, and have really been enjoying all of the opportunities on offer.

“I think anybody who came here now would not believe their eyes – it looks more like a place you’d expect to see in Jesmond or Gosforth than on the Meadow Well estate.

It really is a sight to behold.”

Statistics show more than 65,000 people in the North of Tyne Combined Authority moved onto Universal Credit over the past year after losing their jobs or their selfemployed income, and food poverty is on the rise in the region.

The Trust’s decision to open its Nourish Store came on the back of its work in the pandemic, during which it used 15,000 tonnes of donated food to provide more than 40,000 fresh meals to struggling families.

Supplies in the Nourish Store are donated by organisations including FareShare North-East, Tin on the Wall and all the major local supermarkets, as well as through private donations.

Wayne added: “The shop is designed to help provide food security to people who often live hand to mouth – if 18

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Image: Rusby Media

LOCAL NEWS

Cedarwood Trust CEO Wayne Dobson and interior designer George Bond at the refurbished hub

an unexpected bill comes in it can be a choice between paying the bill or feeding your family.

“The scheme will help prevent people reaching crisis level and needing to visit food banks. While we have been giving meals away in the pandemic, people still want to give something in return.

“This is about people feeling like they are keeping their dignity, and putting something in to take something out, and it is available to anybody, no matter their income or background.”

Natasha Amos, 32, has been using the centre for five years and has just signed up for several of the Trust’s training courses.

She said “The centre looks absolutely beautiful now. It’s like a beautiful restaurant, shop and community centre rolled into one.

“The Food Membership Scheme is a brilliant idea and a god-send for people like me. It will really help when I’m struggling with money.”

The George Bond Interior Design studio has won numerous awards over the past 25 years, while George himself has recently appeared as a design consultant on BBC’s ‘Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is’.

His idea for the design of the building came from the lack of green space nearby, and a desire to ‘bring the outside inside’.

He said: “When I first arrived one of the first things that struck me was the lack of green space, so I wanted to bring a bit of greenery to the place.

“By making the space light and open, filled with plants and green imagery, I think we have really managed to bring the outside inside.

“I wanted people to come through that door and feel comfortable, not threatened, and I think we have achieved that.

“I have loved working with the Trust and am proud of what we have achieved together. I would love to be more involved in the Trust and community projects in the future.”

For more information on Cedarwood Trust, head to www.cedarwoodtrust.com or search Cedarwood Trust on social media.

If you would like to help by volunteering at Cedarwood Trust or would like to donate food, please contact call 0330 094 8454 or email info@cedarwoodtrust.com.

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LOCAL NEWS

People are being encouraged to have their say on plans for a new seafront route for sustainable travel.

North Tyneside Council is inviting views on a permanent, segregated, two-way, safe space along the seafront between the North Shields Fish Quay and St Mary’s Lighthouse in Whitley Bay for people using sustainable and active forms of travel.

In summer 2020 the council implemented a pop-up cycle lane which was well received by many, while also presenting some challenges. The extensive feedback received, including as part of the recent Our North Tyneside Plan consultation, has allowed the council to develop a proposed permanent scheme that seeks to resolve all the identified issues.

As a result, the proposed scheme will maintain two-way traffic flow along the coast between Whitley Bay and Tynemouth, with some short sections of proposed localised diversions, and the proposals also include improving safety along the road by introducing a 20mph limit and various supporting traffic safety measures.

The council has worked closely with coastal emergency services to address and resolve some of the design elements that created challenges for search and rescue operations with the previous pop-up scheme.

The proposed scheme will be largely funded by the Department for Transport’s Active Travel Fund (ATF), subject to approval of a bid for £3.5m, alongside contributions from walking and cycling charity Sustrans and the council.

It will be a major step forward for the Elected Mayor Norma Redfearn CBE and her Cabinet’s pledge to create a cleaner, greener borough as part of its declaration of a climate emergency.

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Image: North Tyneside Council

COUNCIL SEEKING YOUR THOUGHTS ON NEW PROPOSED SEAFRONT ROUTE

Artists Impression on forms of sustainable and active transport, such as bikes, skateboards and scooters, along North Tyneside’s beautiful coastline will also further increase its appeal to visitors, supporting the local economy. The current shared use path will revert to a dedicated pedestrian footpath.

The scheme seeks to address conflicts between pedestrians and cyclists on the shared footpath and also conflicts between on-road cyclists and drivers along the seafront by creating segregated safe space for all. The proposals also support the council’s commitment to encourage more people to take up active travel and adopt a healthier lifestyle.

The scheme will make it easier for people to safely access popular attractions like St Mary’s Lighthouse, Spanish City and Tynemouth Priory as well as the award-winning beaches and open spaces and support local businesses as part of the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new route will enhance the existing coastal section of the National Cycle Route 1 and will improve access from other parts of the borough.

The route will serve local schools and places of work as well as linking into the new transport interchange planned for North Shields and pedestrianised parts of the town centre as part of the council’s ambitious regeneration plans.

Cllr Sandra Graham, Cabinet member for Environment and Cycling Champion, said: “There are so many benefits to using sustainable and active forms of travel and I am delighted that we can now share our plans for a safe, segregated, sustainable seafront route. It is vital that we take action to encourage a more sustainable way of life as the future of our planet depends on it and changing the way we travel is a massive part of that.

“We have an outstanding, worldclass coastline in North Tyneside that is visited by millions of people every year and we need to put measures in place that improve the offer and experience for those who come here.

It’s about shifting our mindset.

“Following the temporary popup scheme implemented along the seafront last year as part of social distancing measures, which proved very popular, we know this is something people want to see in place permanently. We have listened to what people have told us and have designed a scheme that balances the needs of everyone while also addressing the challenges that arose previously. I would urge everyone to find out more about the plans and let us know what you think.”

■ For more information and to take part in the consultation visit https://app.placechangers.co.uk/ campaign/203/overview

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PUZZLES INSIDE

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MAKE NEW SPACE

Your loft & garage hold the key to extra space in your home

Summer of Cycling underway & plans revealed to expand cycle network

STIC PAWTA The North East Dog Festival

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

SAY GOODBYE TO DRY EYES It’s official. Due to popular demand, Concept Eye Clinic’s specialist service to treat dry eye conditions is back!

If you already suffer from dry eye syndrome, the increased use of screen time due to working from home over the last two years will undoubtedly have exacerbated the discomfort. As work/ life boundaries are increasingly blurred, using digital devices over more extended periods of time, may have made us more productive, but with regards to our eye health and overall well being, it can have a detrimental impact. We can’t hold back the passage of time, but we can certainly help address symptoms caused by digital eye strain.

What is Dry Eye condition?

Quite simply, this derives from insufficient lubrication and tears forming to moisten the surface of the eye. Did you know that keeping our eyes healthy and our vision to stay clear, a consistent layer of tears is essential? This layer comprises aqueous (water), oil, and mucous, which come from glands around the eye. When these glands are blocked or clogged, your eyes struggle to produce tear film. As a result, dry eye symptoms may appear and cause discomfort and irritation.

How can this be treated?

Professionally performed, BlephEx™ will reduce or alleviate these chronic and debilitating symptoms.

Treatments are typically repeated at regular monthly intervals depending on the severity of the disease. By eliminating the inflammatory etiology of blepharitis/dry eyes, the overall health of the eyelid is improved. You 22

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can then begin to produce more of their own tears and finally enjoy a life free from the chronic and irritating symptoms associated with blepharitis and its subsequent dry eye disease.

Contact Sam to book your Blephex appointment, or if you are experiencing any problems with your eyes or health such as a change in your vision. With a reputation for clinical excellence and diagnostic technology, being prepared, is what the people at Concept Eye Clinic are good at, to ensure your experience is a safe, comfortable and seamless one. It’s time to give your eyes a fresh MOT

■ Concept Eye Clinic 25 Front Street, Tynemouth, NE30 4DX Tel: 0191 285 1603 www.concepteyeclinic.com

“

Very knowledgeable and reassuring optometrist. Great manner and nice to chat to during exam. Sam the dispenser also fantastic! She did a great job in helping me choose the perfect glasses.

--The most thorough eye examination I’ve ever had. Ross made me feel welcome and very comfortable. I have a family history of eye problems and I felt assured by the advanced diagnostics here and how my eye condition was explained. Glasses selection is also excellent here. Concept is definitely worth the extra travel!

--My whole eye examination process with Ross and Sam was superb. As an ITU staff nurse I can recognise excellence when I see it and experience it. This practice go the extra mile for their clients. I wouldn’t go anywhere else.

Thank you Concept!

Refresh Your Vision.

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www.concepteyeclinic.com T&C’s Apply ABC MAGAZINES

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LOCAL NEWS

Football-mad Judy Collins is desperately searching for women to join her playing the beautiful game – 50 years since she made the same appeal through her local newspaper.

Judy, now 67, fell in love with football during the World Cup in 1966, but wasn’t allowed to play football at school because she was a girl.

Instead, when aged 17, she decided to appeal for players in her local newspaper, the Whitley Bay Guardian.

Now, half a century on from her 1971 appeal, Judy is once again after players to join her – this time at Age UK North Tyneside’s Women’s Walking Football group.

The new group, which takes place every Wednesday at 10am on the all-weather pitch next to Foxhunters Pavilion in Whitley Bay, is open for any women aged 50 or older.

Judy, from Cullercoats, said: “Watching the World Cup got me into football, but at school girls weren’t allowed to play which seems crazy now – you see women’s football everywhere in 2021.

“I wish I had been born later so I could fully experience women’s football now and how popular it has become.

“Back when I was young I just played with my brother and his friends and thought it would be nice to have a girls’ team, so I contacted the local paper.

“I managed to get a few girls together but we had nobody to play against. I can’t believe it’s 50 years later and I’m still struggling for games!”

Judy has so far found it difficult to spread the word with just two other women turning up at the most recent group.

She is desperate for a kick-about with anybody who is interested in keeping active, and is particularly keen to find any of the women who joined her team 50 years ago.

Judy, who works as a lollipop lady 26

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Judy Collins, 67, with her original newspaper clipping from 1971

and school lunchtime supervisor, added: “It has been extremely frustrating not finding anyone! But now the Age UK North Tyneside group is up and running I’m hopeful we can get a few people interested.

“Ultimately, I just want to get as many people together as possible to get together to have fun and keep fit.

“All those ladies I played with all those years ago – if you see this please come along and have a game!

I would love to see you again.”

Walking Football is just one of a number of activities run by Age UK North Tyneside with a view to keeping older people fit and active.

These also include yoga classes, seated exercise, Walking Tennis groups and even Line Dancing.

The charity is also running a Healthy Habits programme, where older people are encouraged to attend peer-to-peer sessions but also have access to a ‘Co-ordinator’, who help them focus on their own fitness goals.

Yvonne Probert, Head of Charity Services at Age UK North Tyneside, said: “The mission of Age UK North Tyneside as a charity is ‘to help older people make more of life’ and we believe that a holistic, personcentred approach is the best way to achieve this.

Images: Rusby Media

Woman Pleads for Footballing Team-Mates, 50 Years after her First Newspaper Appeal

“Like all physical activities, Walking Football supports individuals to maintain or increase their level of physical activity and by doing this improving their overall health and wellbeing.

“Also as Age UK North Tyneside delivers locally at neighbourhood level, this assists people to remain active and part of their community, hence Walking Football helps in reducing loneliness and social isolation in older adults.

“We would encourage anybody who is aged 50 or over and keen to get active and meet new people to have a look at what Age UK North Tyneside has to offer.”

To find out more about the sessions, call 0191 2808484 Option 0 . You can also email enquiries@ ageuknorthtyneside.org.uk or head to www.ageuk.org.uk/northtyneside/

Face-to-face activities are returning Tell us what you’d like to see Whether you fancy chilling out with some Yoga, building your skills with Walking Football, or forming friendships in our Men’s Group, we’ve got an activity for you.

We’re constantly adding to our range of activities, so if we don’t currently offer your favourite, let us know and we’ll see what we can do. Call 0191 287 7012 or email Community.Development@ageuknorthtyneside.org.uk

Registered charity number 1049527. Company number 1763579.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

FANCY A BREAK? Right now we all need something to look forward to, and a UK coach break could be just the ticket!

Local coach tourism experts Graham Wright and John Hindhaugh have started their own coach tour company and are taking bookings now.

Graham explains more...

John and I have worked in the coach tourism industry as drivers for many years, the last few spent as tour drivers for the same local North East coach holiday company, until the Global pandemic had a catastrophic effect on our industry, with many companies going out of business.

Over the years, on our numerous tours both abroad and in the UK, we have built up a fantastic relationship with many of our passengers, and are lucky to call many of them friends. They really appreciated our experience and knowledge of the places we visited, to the extent that a lot of passengers started asking who the driver would be before they actually booked a tour with the company. It was during a conversation with one of our friends that the question was asked about starting our own company doing our own holidays, so here we are.

We have put all our years’ experience and knowledge to good use while planning our exclusive tours. All the tours are exceptional value for money, and we only select the best-established quality hotels, that are generally either known to us, or we have previously used before.

The specific day trips on each tour are also carefully created, all based on our knowledge as well as any relevant previous customer feedback and suggestions to ensure they are always enjoyed. The trips do not leave the hotel too early, or return too late, so as to allow 28

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everyone to make full use of the facilities of the chosen hotel. Guaranteed free time as well as entertainment are also key factors that we take into account to try and make a tour as pleasurable an experience possible.

In such a short space of time, from the initial concept, we have managed to make massive progress. During this current difficult time we all need something to look forward to, and we currently have a wide range of fantastic tours in Great Britain. Our advert on the opposite page shows you what’s on offer, with more to follow!

You can rest assured that you can book with confidence with us. We have been granted a COVID-19 Industry Standard Certificate which shows government and industry COVID-19 guidelines are followed. Plus, if your tour is cancelled due to the COVID restrictions, you will receive a full refund.

We look forward to welcoming you aboard!

■ United Group Travel Ltd

Tel: 01670 632460 / 07957 141654 www.unitedgrouptravel.com Facebook: United Group Travel Ltd E mail: graham.john.unitedgrouptravel@gmail.com Company no. 13052351

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Prep your Garden this Autumn Although temperatures start to dwindle as we edge towards the final quarter of the year, now is the time to get outside and lay the groundwork in your garden, to allow it to spring into bloom in 2022.

The expert team from Dobbies, the UK’s leading garden centre retailer, is here to help you along the way.

Whether you have a seasoned green thumb or are new to planting, freshly moistened soil, longer evenings and comfortable temperatures mean the autumn garden is packed with opportunity and this should be embraced to maximise a garden’s potential for the year ahead.

While spring may be the traditional time for deep-cleaning homes, Dobbies Horticultural Director Marcus Eyles, advises that autumn is the key season for sprucing up gardens. He recommends regular deadheading and cutting back of herbaceous plants and Roses - allowing them to produce some tidy growth, pruning (remember to keep sticks and stems so they can be used as plant supports next year) and continued weeding of perennials.

Marcus said; “Autumn is the perfect time to wind down, restore and prepare our gardens for the new year. Spring bulbs, vegetables and leafy crops will welcome your attention throughout the season, as we prepare for winter and anticipate a healthy 2022 spring bloom."

“Root systems will find it easier to develop under cooler weather, so now is an excellent time to plant potatoes for your Christmas dinner, or try beetroot and carrots for a hearty Sunday roast. Maintenance is key during the autumnal months, so make use of a quieter time to weed perennial plants and prune shrubs, but most of all, be sure to sit back and take a moment to wonder in the magnificence of the season’s rich colours.”

As Marcus highlighted, autumn is not simply for maintenance, with lots of bright plants revelling in the cooler conditions of the season. From fiery 30

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reds and oranges of the seasonal foliage to gorgeous greens from the vegetable patch harvest, for fans of colour, autumn can be beautiful.

Dogwood and Birch will keep your borders looking suitably seasonal while Acers, Cyclamen, Pansies and Ornamental grasses make for beautiful displays in containers.

In preparation for spring blooms, be sure to plant flowering bulbs, so they’ll burst into colour once the weather heats up again. Daffodils, Crocuses and Hyacinths can all be planted in October, but it’s best to wait until November for your Tulips.

For planting in the ground, firstly check the planting depth of your bulbs and dig a hole as deep as required. Mix in Bulb Starter and add a layer of grit – this is important if you have very wet or heavy soil as it will prevent the bulbs rotting during the winter.

Autumn is a season of change and transition. Peat-free compost is a great way to encourage sustainability in our gardens, and a healthy foundation for budding spring blooms.

With a target to be peat-free by the end of 2021, Dobbie’s own brand peat-free compost, which is now available instore, is a sustainable alternative for those hoping to garden without compromising the environment.

If food is at the forefront of your thoughts, autumn is an important time for the vegetable patch. Planting in this season gives crops a chance to start their life in warm soil giving them a strong base to establish themselves before winter and makes way for an earlier yield.

Broad beans are one of the simplest vegetables to grow in autumn, doing well in most soils and climates.

Excellent in risottos, stews or as a

snack, these hardy vegetables have large seeds that are easy to handle and don’t require any specialist equipment.

For the best results, sow your seeds in two close rows between October and November.

Garlic is another great addition to the autumn garden and will be ready to pick by July if planted now. If your soil is claggy, add grit to the bottom of the planting holes and pick a sundrenched spot.

While the list of autumn tasks may feel daunting for gardeners, Dobbies handy check-list of top ten tips below should keep you and your garden on track.

1. Tidy herbaceous plants 2. Continue to do weeding, focusing on perennial plants 3. Plant bulbs ready to burst into colour in spring 4. Plant herbaceous plants 5. Empty pots and plant autumn bedding 6. Start to prune trees and large shrubs 7. Continue to plant leafy crops 8. Prep for Christmas potatoes by planting in August/September 9. Mulch beds with soil enricher, such as Bloomin Amazing 10. Make refuge for wildlife by not over-tidying Dobbies is ‘not your average garden centre’, so remember to visit our website for more information, or pop into store if you require any further advice or guidance, as the expert team are always on hand and happy to help.

▪ Dobbies Garden Centre, Gosforth Park, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne NE3 5EP www.dobbies.com

Tel: 0191 251 0439 Mob: 07976 644251

Email: info@hills-landscapes.com

ARE YOU TIRED OF GETTING COMPOST OR PLANTERS HOME? Why not let Hills Landscapes deliver colourful planters or hanging baskets and compost free to your door.

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PUZZLE CHALLENGE

CROSSWORD Across 7 Fakes, falsifies (8) 8 Bar joining two wheels (4) 9 Type of breakfast cereal (6) 10 Picture (5) 11 The round before the final (4) 12 Interloper, stranger (8) 14 Jam-filled bun (8) 18 Greasy film on water (4) 20 Shroud (5) 22 Build again (6) 23 Layer (4) 24 Personal views (8) Down 1 Excite, entice (6) 2 Hoarding (8) 3 Deep violet blue (6) 4 Help (6) 5 Molten fluid rock (4) 6 Accuse, assert (6) 13 Sleeplessness (8) 15 Rare, intricate flower (6) 16 Of little breadth (6) 17 Root vegetable (6) 19 Cruel (6) 21 Diversify, change (4)

MINDBENDERS Can you find the hidden phrases?

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SUDOKU Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.

WORDSEARCH Can you find all of the mathematical terms in the grid?

add algebra angle brackets cube decimal difference differentiate divide equation estimate evaluate expression factorise

factors fraction graph integrate median mode power quadratic range rounding square subtract surd term

KAKURO

Fill in the blank squares in the grid with numbers so that each horizontal or vertical line adds up to the total given in the box either to the left or above it.

Horizontal totals are given in the top right corners of the shaded boxes; vertical totals in the bottom left corners.

You can use the numbers 1 to 9, but may not use the same number more than once in any run. The number may be used again, however, in the same row or column but as part of another run.

SOLUTIONS

CROSSWORD

SUDOKU

MIND BENDERS

1.Safety in numbers 2. Run for cover 3. Go up in smoke WORDSEARCH

KAKURO 16

12

13

7

14

9

15 9

1

13

4

6 5 9

1 17 8

5 29

27

6

2

9

8

1

4

7

8

17

8 9

5 16

8

11

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2

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9

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E N TE RTAIN M E N T

FILM REVIEWS GHOSTBUSTERS AFTERLIFE Genres: Comedy, Fantasy, Supernatural Age Rating: PG-13 Release date: 19th November In ’Ghostbusters: Afterlife’, two grandchildren of the 1984 original ghostbusters get together to fight against a supernatural phenomenon that returns years after the first movie.

The story starts with two siblings and their mother moving into a decaying farmhouse in the tiny Oklahoma city of Summerville, to take over their late grandfather’s failing farm.

Following their arrival in town, the family begins to notice and sense odd activities taking place around the city. Mr. Grooberson (Paul Rudd), Trevor’s teacher, shares his thoughts on how current circumstances link to supernatural events of the 1980s. The family then proceeds to learn about their grandfather’s hidden legacy, and how supernatural powers threaten to take over the world once again. As a result, the children must blow the dust off the Ghostbusters’ equipment and use it to save the world, their friends and their family.

Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson, Sigourney Weaver, and Annie Potts have agreed to reprise their roles as five of the Ghostbusters original cast from the 1984’s ’Ghostbusters’.

At the same time, in a moment that can almost be called a passing of the torch, the movie is directed by Jason Reitman, the son of director Ivan Reitman - who directed both ’Ghostbusters’ (1984) and ’Ghostbusters II’ (1989).

Jason has already directed a number of other films as well, including ‘Tully’ (2018), ‘Labor Day’ (2013), and ‘Thank You For Smoking’ (2005), and in this one will also be acting as co-writer for the screenplay along with Gil Keenan and Dan Aykroyd.

‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’ is set for UK release on 19th November.

CRY MACHO

Genres: Thriller, Western, Drama Age Rating: TBC Release date: 12th November Clint Eastwood’s new movie ‘Cry Macho’ is a western drama-thriller about a fired horse trainer who takes the job of returning his former boss’ 11-year-old son from his alcoholic

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wife. The mission doesn’t go as planned, but the horseman learns what it takes to be a good man as he crosses Mexico into Texas.

Based on a 1975 book with the same title by M. Richard Nash, ‘Cry Macho’ has been announced under several previous projects. Director Brad Furman announced at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival that Arnold Schwarzenegger would play the horseman, but the project was cancelled after Schwarzenegger divorced Maria Shriver.

The now 90-year-old Eastwood takes three main roles in this movie - leading actor, director, and producer. The multi-talented star becomes Miko, the horseman, along with several other cast members. They are Dwight Yoakam, Natalia Traven, Horacio Garcia Rojas and Fernanda Urrejola.

It is not the first time Eastwood has taken more than one role.

The last movie where he both acted and directed was ‘The Mule’ in 2018, playing the role of a horticulturist who turns into a courier for a drug cartel. Screenwriter Nick Schenk reappears here, adapting Nash’s screenplay for ‘Cry Macho’.

‘Cry Macho’ is set to be released in UK theatres on November 12th, 2021. It will also be available on the HBO Max streaming service for only 30 days after the release date.

RON’S GONE WRONG

Genres: Animated, Comedy, Family, Science Fiction Age Rating: PG Release date: October 22nd, ‘Ron’s Gone Wrong’ takes the audience to witness the life of Barney, an awkward middle schooler who befriends his digital friend named Ron. ‘Ron’s Gone Wrong’ takes the audience to witness the life of Barney, an awkward middle schooler who befriends his digital friend named Ron. Ron is a pod-sized robot that can walk, talk, and function like humans. Being the curious teenager that he is, Barney sees a friend figure in Ron, at least until it malfunctions. Only then he realizes what the meaning of friendship in the digital era truly is. Ron is voiced by Jack Dylan Grazer, a seventeen year old actor who recently made his way to popular child and teenager movies. He has voiced Alberto Scorfano from Pixar’s ‘Luca’ and played Eddie Kaspbrak in the Horror movie ‘It’. On the other hand, the tiny robot is voiced by comedian and actor Zach Galifianakis. Despite being known for his role in an adult comedy ‘The Hangover’ as Alan, he is also a recurring voice actor in animated movies such as Humpty Dumpty in ‘Puss in the Boots’ and Joker in ‘The Lego Batman’.

Among the cast members are also Ed Helms, Rob Delaney, Justice Smith, and British actress Olivia Colman.

20th Century Studios partnered with Locksmith animation to make this computer-animated science-fiction comedy.

The animation company is based in London, England, and claims to be the only UK animation company with high-end technology. This project will be its first movie. Jean Philippe Vine directed the movie together with Sarah Smith, with a screenplay written by Smith and Peter Baynham.

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Tel: 01670 716 767 Email: tilenortheast@outlook.com www.tilenortheast.com ABC MAGAZINES

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LOCAL NEWS

DEMENTIA MEETING CENTRES OPEN IN NORTH TYNESIDE Life-changing groups where people living with Dementia and their families can receive vital support have opened in the North East for the first time.

Age UK North Tyneside has opened two Dementia Meeting Centres, offering individually-tailored, expertled support to people affected by the condition and their families.

Most existing groups focus solely on the person with Dementia, however the new centres – at West Moor Community Centre and Howdon Hub – also help family members cope with the effects of the devastating condition.

Research has shown Meeting Centres have a hugely positive impact: statistics show that after attending people living with the condition were happier, and families felt more able to look after their loved ones.

With activities to help stimulate their minds, and experts on hand for help and advice, attendees have already said what a difference the new groups are making to their lives.

Sam Chiedozie, whose wife Tessie, 63, lives with Dementia and who attended the West Moor group, said: “It is great to have a place we can go like this where we can get advice and talk to other people who are going through the same things.

“The activities are great – they help stimulate her mind and help her with

her memory. This is so much better than us just being at home. This is exactly the kind of place we need.”

Tessie, from Wideopen, added: “We have been doing something similar with Age UK North Tyneside virtually but I have been really looking forward to meeting people for the first time!

“I have had such a great time here and will definitely come back!”

Dennis Brown, 82, from Forest Hall, also lives with the condition. He said: “When I heard about the Meeting Centres I thought it would do me good to come along.

“It has been very nice, with a great group of people who I wouldn’t have otherwise met. I have had a lot of fun.”

There are around 3000 people over 65 living with Dementia across North Tyneside, and the condition is listed as the biggest cause of death in the UK. Age UK North Tyneside’s Dementia Connections team currently supports almost 400 people a month who are living with Dementia, and their families.

During the pandemic it has kept in touch with customers via telephone, Zoom and Facetime, while also providing essential home visits.

The idea for Meeting Centres originated in the Netherlands, where there are now hundreds dotted across the country.

Despite their success in Europe, they are still uncommon in the UK. Kirsty De Bono-Hume, one of the

charity’s seven Dementia-specialist Admiral Nurses and the Centres’ ‘lead’ hopes the Centres will be the first of many.

She said: “The idea is to bring together the people affected by Dementia and support them through what can be a very difficult process.

“The Meeting Centres provide an inclusive, warm and enjoyable environment to support both people with Dementia alongside their family carers.

“There is nothing else like this in the North East and we think it is going to have a massive impact on people in the community.

“We are starting with two Centres initially, but ideally would have more spread across North Tyneside in future.”

The Admiral Nurse team which supports the Meeting Centres has been funded by North Tyneside Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).

Dr Alexandra Kent, CCG Medical Director, said: “Having communitybased support for people and families affected by dementia is vital especially after a very difficult 18 months.

“These local Meeting Centres really focus on helping people cope with the adjustments needed to live with the symptoms and changes that dementia brings and provides a welcoming, friendly and fun environment for everyone who visits.”

To find out more about the Centres, call 0191 2808484 option 0.

You can also email enquiries@ageuknorthtyneside.org.uk or head to https://www.ageuk.org.uk/northtyneside/our-services/dementiaservices/dementia-coordinators 36

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Do you know how much energy you’re using?

A smart meter could help you track your energy usage. The in-home display shows you the amount of energy you use in pounds and pence, allowing you to keep a closer eye on your energy spending habits.

Both the in-home display and the smart meter operate without the need to be connected to the internet.

Call our Information & Advice team on 0191 280 8484 or email customerservices@ageuknorthtyneside.org.uk to find out more.

Eligibility may vary, consumer action required.

Age UK North Tyneside provide advice only, we do not supply or install smart meters.

Registered charity number 1049527. Company number 1763579.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

WHY USE A SOLICITOR IF YOU ARE AN EXECUTOR? If you have been appointed as an Executor you will be named as such in the Will of the deceased.

Many people appoint their friends or relatives to be their Executors without giving any thought to the legal responsibility involved. But if you get it wrong you may be liable to pay back large sums of money by way of taxes or overpaid state benefits that the deceased received.

THERE IS A LOT TO ATTEND TO AND YOU MAY FIND THE SITUATION OVERWHELMING. I was an Executor in the estate of one of my close relatives. I have over thirty years of experience as a Wills and Probate Solicitor and knew exactly how to handle the estate. But the task quickly became impossible to manage. I couldn’t face going to the house, the place of a lifetime of memories. And so I held up progress. In the meantime the other beneficiaries started to complain. I therefore asked one of my colleagues to take over the case and they moved the matter forward swiftly.

YOU MAY HAVE BEEN APPOINTED AS AN EXECUTOR WHEN YOU WERE MUCH YOUNGER. If you agreed to be an Executor many years ago you may now realise that you simply can’t cope with the physical demands of sorting out an empty house. It can be a huge and time consuming process. Even if the deceased was a very organised person it can still take up to ten hours just to sort through all the paperwork. Every item needs to be checked, you do not wish to throw out what you feel are very old Life Assurance policies held in the names of the deceased’s parents. They could be worth a fortune. Or what about the slip of paper that we would recognise as a receipt for monies paid into an old savings policy that is still in existence.

YOU WON’T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT FINDING MONEY TO PAY FOR A FUNERAL. The first thing that I do if I am managing an estate is to look for a pre paid funeral plan. If I drafted the Will then I will have asked about this at the time. It is likely that if there is such a policy in existence I will have a copy of it stored with the original will. I also ask my clients to advise their friends or relatives that such a policy exists. If I haven’t drafted the will then I need to go to the deceased’s empty property and look for one quickly.

Could you face going into the deceased’s empty home within days of their death to start looking for a funeral 38

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JACQUELINE EMMERSON

plan? Often I am the first person to go into a house after the death in the property itself. Sometimes what I find is not very pleasant. Perhaps you would be better off remembering your relative or friend in happier times.

If you appoint a funeral director without checking first to see if there is a pre paid funeral plan then you may be wasting money belong to the estate and ultimately the beneficiaries.

If there isn’t a funeral plan it is still highly likely that you can avoid the stress of determining who will pay for the funeral. In many cases executors are distant relatives.

They may not wish to find the money for a funeral only to have to wait a long period of time to recover this.

If I am involved in Administering an estate then I will ask to see proof that there is sufficient money available to cover funeral costs in any of the deceased’s bank accounts. I will then contact a funeral director and advise that I will pay them from one of the bank accounts.

As a solicitor I am able to access an account in order to pay the funeral director prior to the Grant of Probate. This can actually take up to a year to obtain.

If you have been appointed as an Executor and you don’t know what to do next then you can always contact our Specialist Probate Lawyers at Emmersons Solicitors. We are all happy to have an initial FREE chat with you to determine how much help you will need. je@emmersons-solicitors.co.uk

If your relationship has just ended we understand that you may feel lost or worried.

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Our well-trained staff can obtain the best settlement for you. Due to their experience, excellent negotiating skills and use of Round Table Meetings the vast majority of our clients never have to visit court.

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LOCAL NEWS

Image: North Tyneside Council

WORK TO RECREATE HISTORIC TOWN SQUARE GETS UNDERWAY

Artists impression of Northumberland Square

W

ork to recreate the Georgian-era appearance of North Shields’ historic Northumberland Square began this month.

The project, which is part of North Tyneside Council’s Ambition for North Shields and the Fish Quay Masterplan, will see the redevelopment of the historic Square, sympathetic to its heritage and roots.

Supported and co-funded by Historic England, the work will take the Square back to its original layout of footpaths and a perimeter of trees.

Traditional sandstone paving and cobbled-style paths will be installed along with new contemporary lighting and up-lighting throughout the Square.

The scheme will be the first step towards creating a new Cultural Quarter for North Shields, incorporating the Square and the top end of Howard Street (north of the Saville Street junction to the Square), offering a new, pedestrian and cyclist-friendly environment and cultural scene.

The new-look Square will create a welcoming open space to enjoy and use for leisure activities and events, adding to the appeal of the town centre and complementing the other North Shields regeneration projects.

It comes as the new development of high-quality family housing in the town centre moves a step closer with the former Unicorn House site having now been cleared.

Cllr Carl Johnson, Deputy Mayor of North Tyneside and cabinet member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “These are exciting times for the regeneration of North Shields, with work on the ground really starting to gather pace.

“The reshaping of Northumberland Square, which will hark back to its origins in the late 18th and early 19th Century, will complement the various other projects 40

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taking place, such as the redevelopment of the Unicorn House site and recent completion of high-quality new homes in the Square. The work to the Square will create a welcoming modern feel and tranquil, pleasant and more flexible space in this historic part of the town for events, such as the popular Victorian Christmas Market, and leisure activities that everyone can enjoy.

The work, which got underway at the beginning of October, will include removing lighting columns and reducing the number of trees in the Square, in line with the Masterplan proposals outlined during the public consultation, in order to recreate the original design.

A total of 24 trees are to be removed, including one diseased original. The decision to remove the trees has been taken in line with good arboricultural management.

Opening up the space will allow for an increase in biodiversity throughout the Square with a diverse range of nearly 5,000 new plants and shrubs to be planted, including a native beech hedgerow around all sides, which will diversify habitats and enhance ecology.

New, high-quality trees will be planted to create a tree-lined boulevard along Howard Street and elsewhere as part of the regeneration works, resulting in an overall increase in the total number of trees in the town in addition to the ongoing programme of tree planting across the borough.

The park area of Northumberland Square will be closed until October, when it is due to be reopened until after Christmas to allow for events, including the Victorian Christmas Market, to take place.

The first phase of the redevelopment of the Square is expected to be complete by summer 2022.

Funding for the redevelopment has come from Historic England and The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s Getting Building fund. The scheme will be delivered in partnership with Capita.

We are looking for new residential and commercial properties in North Tyneside for sale and for rent to meet increasing demand.

To arrange a free marketing appraisal call 0191 257 1253 or Email sales@rajackson.co.uk

www.rajackson.co.uk 18 Northumberland Square, North Shields, NE30 1PX ABC MAGAZINES

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A D V E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E

ENJOY YOUR CONSERVATORY THIS WINTER

If you’re fed up with your conservatory being freezing cold and unusable during the winter then Thermos Roof explain how they have the answer...

C

onservatories are a fantastic space to enjoy whilst looking out onto your garden, they are bright, spacious and give you a great sense of closeness to the outdoors. However, as most conservatory owners will know, whilst they bring all of those benefits, it is usually short lived and can only be enjoyed for two or three months of the year, the rest of those months being either freezing cold or blisteringly hot.

At Thermos Roof, we have been insulating conservatory roofs since 2005 for two main reasons, firstly to increase its insulating performance and secondly to enhance its internal aesthetic appearance.

Experience will have shown you that in the winter as soon as you open the door the heat is sucked out of your room into the conservatory and, during the summer, it becomes a dazzling sauna that’s so hot you need a fan to cool you down. At Thermos Roof we can transform your conservatory from a room you barely use into a room that you can enjoy all year round, because the temperature is comfortable and constant, you will even be able to watch TV or use a computer without sunglasses.

What is most impressive is that we can do this all in one day! With no mess!

We retain your existing polycarbonate or glass roof and insulate it from the inside, finishing it in an attractive gloss white tongue and groove PVC cladding that matches perfectly with the rest of your conservatory 42

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construction. The materials we use are lightweight, therefore no roof strengthening is required, no planning application is necessary and no long periods of mess and upheaval in your home. In addition to this the look and finish of your Thermos Roof will be as fresh in 10 years as it is now.

The performance of the lightweight insulation system will equal that of vastly more expensive options, with less mess and waste, and less time to install saving you thousands of pounds and allowing you to enjoy your conservatory immediately.

We can install a Thermos Roof to conservatories of any size or shape transforming them into a flowing extension of your living space wherein its use is not dictated by the external weather conditions, it will become warm in winter and cool in summer.

In addition to the above benefits, our team will eliminate mould and condensation, reduce rain, noise and serve to cover up an unsightly

dirty roof. The gloss white finish will make it brighter in the evenings by reflecting light and will give your conservatory that WOW factor, making it a great place to relax or work.

All installations come with a 5 year warranty and we guarantee that you will be amazed with both the improved appearance and the insulating performance of your new roof.

We offer a free quotation service for the installation of your Thermos Roof and, should you require it, we can also undertake maintenance works to repair or replace gutters, fascias, soffits, window sills, roof panels and leaking roofs.

Please give us a call today on 01670 828 695 to start the ball rolling to making full use of your Conservatory!

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WINTER IS COMING! Get your conservatory insulated now so you don’t have to shut the door to it until next summer.

A THERMOS ROOF INSULATION SYSTEM KEEPS YOU AT THE PERFECT TEMPERATURE In winter, conservatories can very quickly become cold and uncomfortable to be in once any form of heating has been turned off. Insulation can help retain this heat, keeping you warm as well as saving you energy and money.

We can carry out a full install in a single day, leaving zero mess and instant results. We retain your existing roof profile & do not remove your current roof. A 5 year warranty is included.

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TECHNOLOGY

How Much is that Phone in the Advert?

By Tom Hancock

Mobile phones are expensive. The latest iPhones and top of the range Android phones cost upwards of £1000 so they are a big financial commitment.

But are they value for money? Is £1000 phone any better than one which costs £200?

When you watch a phone advert it's easy to believe that owning the latest model will make your life infinitely better.

With ultrahigh resolution screens, multiple professional quality cameras and massively powerful computing engines, you could easily use your phone to replace your laptop, camera, TV and, at a push, your spouse!

But how many of these fantastic features will you actually use?

Most of use our phones for fairly mundane, lowpower tasks. We text, check our social media, post selfies or snapshots, watch YouTube videos, make quick videos to post on social media, play a game, and some of us even use them to make phone calls.

But none of these tasks require any of the high-end features that are pushing the cost of your phone through the roof.

Budget phones summon up the image of a piece of sad plastic that struggles to turn on, let alone do anything useful. But there's a big difference between ‘budget’ and ‘great value for money.’

Big brand names such as Apple and Samsung market their phones as status symbols. Pulling out the latest iPhone or flipping open your foldable Samsung is the same as wearing a Rolex watch or rocking up in your sports car. If you enjoy that feeling and are happy with the cost then these are the phones for you.

If you want a phone that has almost all the features of the top brands; screen, cameras, powerful processor etc., there are a range of less well-known 44

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brands that will deliver all this for a lower cost.

Many of these from Chinese manufacturers where components and labour costs are lower. You'll still get a high-quality product, and the phone will power through all of your day-to-day tasks with room to spare, but people won't recognise the logo on the back.

For example, my 12-year-old needed a new phone and we wanted to get one that would be fun to use rather than the low powered basic model he’d started out with. I came across a phone from Xiaomi, the Redmi Note 9. This has a powerful octa core processor, loads of memory, 64 GB of storage space, ultrahigh resolution screen, three high resolution specialist cameras, fast charge, and long battery life and all for the very pocket friendly cost of £150. From a pre-teenage point of view, he’s pleased as punch with the power and quality of the phone. Form a parent point of view, I’m delighted with the price.

So, when buying a new phone my advice is to be honest about what you're going to use it for. If you feel a premium phone is worth the money go for it. If you want a phone that does everything and is a pleasure to use but is easy on your pocket, shop around.

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Unit 44, Royal Quays Outlet Centre, North Shields, NE29 6DW

Tel: 0191 2591128

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BOOKS

ENTER THE WORLD OF GHOSTS & SPIRITS IN THE CITY NEW BOOK FROM LOCAL AUTHOR

Newcastle is steeped in the supernatural and paranormal and many places both grand and everyday have rich and complex stories to tell of paranormal presences.

In this new book from Amberley Publishing, author Steve Watson investigates the rich supernatural heritage of this city at places such as the Castle Keep, the site of infamous local gaols, and the nearby Black Gate which has seen hundreds of years of the bloody history of Newcastle, the Literary and Philosophical Society, said to be home to 16 ghosts ranging from a Witchfinder General to a little girl, the Tyneside Theatre and Opera House where a stage hand and a performer died tragically, the City Hall, and many more.

Paranormal Newcastle takes the reader into the world of ghosts and spirits in the city, following their footsteps into the unknown. These tales of haunted places, supernatural happenings and weird phenomena will delight the ghost hunters, and fascinate and intrigue everybody who knows Newcastle.

Local author Steve Watson runs a company that organises ghost walks in the North East, called GHOSTnortheast. He has published two books previously on his experiences as a ghost hunter in the North East.

▪ Paranormal Newcastle will be available from 15th October 2021 from www.amberley-books.com and all good bookshops.

NewSpace

Garage Conversions

WE MAKE THAT UNUSED SPACE A WARM & HABITABLE PLACE

Most garages are too small for modern cars but can provide much needed extra space for the family.

BEFORE

· HOME OFFICE · KIDS PLAY ROOM · ADDITIONAL RECEPTION ROOM Your garage holds the key to that extra space and we can bring it to reality.

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Create an additional living space in your home for less than you may think

Please contact us for friendly advice or to arrange an appointment

Tel: 0797 3957 481 or 07931 801 472

info@newspacegarageconversions.co.uk www.newspacegarageconversions.co.uk 46

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le Sa On! w No

NEW FURNITURE JUST ARRIVED FREE DELIVERY

NE FURNITURE WAREHOUSE Call us today: 0191 296 6018 11 Narvik Way, Tyne Tunnel Trade Estate, North Tyneside, NE29 7DE

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© Kate Knight

FUN

#NoFilter

r u o y g n i Liv best life?

Army Cadets do things like ...

•

Adventurous training

Does your social feed make you feel you’re missing out while others seem to be having good times with friends?

•

Learning to navigate

•

Developing survival + first aid skills

•

Learning to safely use a weapon

•

Summer camps

•

Joining a band

You might be interested in finding out about a group of young people who are making life happen off-screen ...

•

Kayaking, climbing + mountaineering

•

Making life-long friends

... they’re Army Cadets – and they’re living life #NoFilter

© SSI Peter Russell

What’s the deal with Army Cadets?

Army Cadets is for young people who are up for adventure, enjoy an adrenalin rush, like working with others, want to challenge themselves and, most importantly, like to have fun.

Who can join

?

Army Cadets is a well kept secret – it’s fantastic, but not many people know about it.

Army Cadets is all-inclusive – you just need to be aged 12 -18.

Will I have to join the Army later?

How does it work?

You aren’t expected to join the Army after being an Army Cadet, it’s simply an organisation for young people who want to live an awesome no-filter lifestyle.

Cadets join a group called a detachment.

That’s your Army Cadet crew who you get to know well through your adventures.

You bond with each other by taking part in activities and spending time at summer camp and on expeditions.

Done any Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards? That’ll give you a flavour of the expedition element of Army Cadets. In fact, the expedition training and DofE are aligned so you can do your DofE through Army Cadets at a fraction of the price you’d pay anywhere else.

How often would I go?

Detachments meet one or two evenings a week and do adventurous training and camps on weekends and during school holidays.

What does it cost? Cadets pay a very small annual subscription for their uniform and access to incredible adventures. Weekends and camps are heavily subsidised; money shouldn’t be a barrier to joining.

Read more

© Carl Recine

BOOST your future

Being an Army Cadet is not just about adventure, it’s also about investing in your future by learning a wide range of skills and, if you want, gaining qualifications.

Cadets develop courage, self-discipline, respect, loyalty, integrity and commitment.

ll

A recent study revealed that being a cadet improves wellbeing, confidence, resilience, independence and employability.

•

STEM camp

•

Summer camps

•

Community activities

•

Parades on Armistice Day

•

Adventurous training in the UK and abroad

•

Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards

JOIN THE ADVENTURE ArmyCadets.com/NoFilter

us

se

THINGS YOU COULD GET INVOLVED IN:

© SSI

R er Pet

INTERESTED IN BEING AN

ADULT VOLUNTEER? Army Cadets is run by adult volunteers from all walks of life. It’s an opportunity to inspire the next generation of citizens, take part in outdoor adventures and even gain new qualifications and skills. If that sounds interesting, we’d love to hear from you. Find out more on the website below.

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Healthy Habits Recipe Book

Veggie Risotto

Veg e

taria

Ingredients • 1 tablespoon of olive oil • 1 finely chopped onion • 1 diced courgette • 150g of pearl barley or Arborio (risotto rice) • 1 vegetable stock pot or cube • ½ teaspoon mixed dried herbs • 80g frozen peas • 160g spinach • 20g of butter Steps

• • • • • • • • • • •

Bring 1.2 litres of water to the boil in the kettle or in a pan.

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over a medium heat.

Add the onion and courgette and cook for 6- 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft.

Add the pearl barley or Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute.

Add 200ml of the boiling water plus the stock pot or crumbled stock cube. Stir well to make sure all nicely mixed.

Stir in the mixed herbs and season according to your tastes.

As the water becomes absorbed by the rice/barley, slowly add more in small amounts, stirring continuously until the rice/barley becomes soft. This can take about 40 minutes. Note: you may not need all the water.

About 5 minutes before the end of the cooking time, add the frozen peas.

When the rice/barley is almost soft but still has a firmness to the bite, stir through the spinach until wilted, then remove the risotto from the heat.

Add the butter and stir through until fully melted. Serve the risotto.

ENJOY! This tasty recipe has been put together by Carole, the Telephone Befriending Coordinator at Age UK North Tyneside.

For more great health and wellbeing tips from the Healthy Habits team, call 0191 280 8484 or email Rebecca.Williams@ageuknorthtyneside.org.uk.

Registered charity number 1049527. Company number 1763579.

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n

Est. 1990

YOUR LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHIC RETAILER AVAILABLE IN STORE NOW

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Fill your frames and photo albums with your favourite photos, available in sizes 6”x4”, to 8”x12”. Or you can create a wide range of personalised gifts including money boxes, cushions, mugs, photo books and more! We’re on hand to help.

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Download the FUJIFILM Imagine App and create beautiful photos and gifts from the comfort of your sofa that you can click and collect from our store Enter store code: fotosnaps

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www.fotosnapswallsend.co.uk

TEL: 0191 234 4606

Like & follow us

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A D V E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E

DON’T MOVE - MAKE NEW SPACE!

Your loft or garage can hold the key to that extra space that you need Most of us would benefit from some extra space in our homes, whether it is for storage purposes, providing a place to study, a home office or a hobby room or play room. NewSpace, a local company based in North Tyneside, have been creating safe accessible storage space in their client’s homes throughout the North East since 2004.

From small storage spaces to large hobby area’s or even a place to study they do it all at fantastic rates and with minimum disruption.

They specialise in creating hobby/ play rooms at a fraction of the price of a full loft conversion. They include the installation of an independent floor, lights and sockets, timber loft ladder, Velux window, and plasterboarded throughout.

During a survey of your property, they’ll enquire how you wish to use your loft space and advise you of the options available.

They also provide a comprehensive and expert garage conversion service for domestic property owners.

Garage conversions are a great way to get more out of your home at a time when living space is at a premium. Most garages are too small for modern cars but can provide much needed extra space for the family. People often move house to get more space ignoring the potential already there that can be developed at a comparatively much lower cost, often increasing the value of your property in the process. From home offices and guest suites to games rooms and extra space to entertain we can convert your garage into any space you require.

Their garage conversions services are always supplied as comprehensive packages of works; they get involved at the earliest possible stage providing a full survey and consultation before 54

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TRANSFORM YOUR LOFT FROM THIS TO THIS

planning and designing your works.

Converting garage space to home offices, spare rooms, games rooms and just about anything else you require is easy with NewSpace Garage Conversions.

New Space only use Fully Qualified Electricians to carry out electrical work in your home.

They’re Fully Insured and have all the necessary insurances to cover you, themselves, and the public.

And they pride themselves on being Clean,Tidy and Punctual.

Give them a call and they’ll take care of the rest.

▪ NewSpace Loft Storage & Garage Conversions Tel: 07973 957 481 www.newspaceloftstorage.co.uk www.newspacegarageconversions.co.uk

CONVERT YOUR GARAGE TO A HOME OFFICE

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NewSpace Loft Storage We create space so everything has a place

WE ARE SPECIALISTS IN CREATING HOBBY ROOMS

LOFT STORAGE SPACE PACKAGE

Our hobby/play rooms are a fantastic alternative to a full loft conversion and at a fraction of the price, they provide valuable space for a variety of uses.

Add storage space in your property with our special loft package which includes:

Includes: • Independent Floor • Timber Ladder • Lights & Sockets • Plaster Boarded • Velux Window

CALL US FOR FURTHER DETAILS

• Loft Ladder • New hatch • Light with Switch • Flooring SUPPLIED & INSTALLED

FOR ONLY £595

Call us today for friendly advice and an estimate 07973 957 481 or 07931 801 472 info@newspaceloftstorage.co.uk

www.newspaceloftstorage.co.uk

TUTOR BUREAU Private tuition in your own home with experienced, professional tutors All tutors are DBS checked Suitable for Key Stage 1, 2 and 3 GCSE and A Level Also, tuition for university students & adults SATs preparation and homework help • • • •

ONLINE TUITION ALSO ACROSS NORTH EAST ALL SUBJECTS ALL AGES NEW TUTORS WELCOME

Call (0191) 252 6271 enquiries@tutorbureau.co.uk www.tutorbureau.co.uk

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TROLLEY SERVICE, REPAIRS & BATTERIES Motocaddy, Powakaddy, Hillbilly Etc.

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Go online or call us today for our full selection of stock Davidsons of Morpeth, Coopies Way, Morpeth, NE61 6JN

01670 512 115 www.davidsonsofmorpeth.co.uk

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Image: North Tyneside Council

LOCAL NEWS

Brendan and Claire Giles at 43-44 Howard Street

Historic North Shields Townhouse Set for New Lease of Life

An historic North Shields townhouse is undergoing a much-needed facelift thanks to a new funding scheme

C

laire and Brendan Giles recently purchased 43-44 Howard Street, – a run-down three-story Georgian property in the heart of the town’s heritage and cultural area.

The couple secured funding to help with the refurbishment through a third-party grant scheme as part of the North Shields High Street Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) project, a partnership between North Tyneside Council and Historic England.

The HAZ project, which is part of the council’s Ambition for North Shields and the Fish Quay regeneration Masterplan, is a four-year programme of physical improvements, community and cultural activities. It is a place-based scheme designed to secure lasting improvements to historic high streets and the communities who use them.

It involves repairing and restoring key architectural heritage buildings through the third-party grants scheme, which is aimed at businesses and residents in the area.

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Once restored, Claire and Brendan plan to run their greetings card business, Claire Giles Ltd, from the premises, which has previously been home to a solicitor’s firm, architect’s practice and office furniture business, but has stood empty for around six years.

Brendan said: “It’s an old property and is very tired but it is so full of charm and character and has so much potential, so when it came onto the market we jumped at the chance. We also really love the area and there’s so many exciting and ambitious plans as part of the regeneration works getting underway in the town, and Howard Street is an amazing location.

“We’ve got an awful lot of work to do but the grant scheme has been a huge help. We’ve had regular contact from the council, with someone involved in the scheme, right from the start to run through what was possible with the building but we have also had a consultant architect

through that, as well as the financial support.”

Claire added: “I grew up in Gateshead and we used to come to the coast every weekend and we moved to North Shields a few years ago out of chance and just fell in love with the area.”

Work is about to get underway to recreate the Georgian-era appearance of the historic Northumberland Square sympathetic to its heritage and roots as part of the An Ambition for North Shields and the Fish Quay Masterplan.

The scheme will be the first step towards creating a new Cultural Quarter for North Shields, incorporating the Square and the top end of Howard Street (north of the Saville Street junction to the Square), offering a new, pedestrian and cyclist-friendly environment and cultural scene.

Cllr Carl Johnson, North Tyneside’s Deputy Mayor and cabinet member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “It’s great to see that this historic property is undergoing much-needed renovation thanks to the support of our third-party grants scheme in partnership with Historic England.

“It’s also a real sign of confidence that business owners like Brendan and Claire have chosen to relocate to North Shields and invest in the town.

“The scheme is all about revitalising this part of the town, which has so much heritage and culture. Breathing new life into streets like Howard Street, alongside the ambitious transformation going on around the rest of the town, will really help give the local economy a shot in the arm and attract more people to live, work and visit here.”

Jules Brown from Historic England said: “It’s wonderful that this historic vacant building is being given a new lease of life and we wish Claire and Brendan all the best with their new business venture at the premises.

Hopefully, their restoration of this Georgian property will inspire others to redevelop and improve the appearance of similar buildings on Howard Street.”

To find out more about the third-party grants scheme email Haz@northtyneside.gov.uk

Davidsons of Morpeth

Volkswagen Authorised Service Dealer Booking your Volkswagen with Davidsons is the surest way to have your car serviced, repaired & cared for by a knowledgeable expert to the highest standard from a family run company, striving for a flawless experience to our customers.

Service, Repairs, Warranty & MOT Call us today to book Davidsons of Morpeth Coopies Way, Morpeth, NE61 6JN

01670 512 115 www.volkswagen.co.uk/retailers/75007/davidsons-of-morpeth-morpeth ABC MAGAZINES

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Café 32 has been refurbished, got a new logo, new decor and furniture - although be reassured the warm welcome and friendly atmosphere remains.

Open Monday to Friday (8am-4pm) why not pop along, enjoy a coffee and reacquaint yourself with our much-loved café.

Breakfasts • Mains • Snacks Kid’s Menu • Cakes • Specialty Coffees • Teas ​A unique café located in the Linskill Centre and only a ten minute walk from Tynemouth and North Shields.

To find out more about venue hire visit www.linskill.org, email The café is fully licensed and free WiFi available so customers inour touch info@linskill.org or is call 0191 257 8000 for a can chatkeep with team. with family and friends, work or simply relax.

Linskill Centre, Linskill Terrace, North Shields, NE30 2AY 0191 257 8000 info@linskill.org www.linskill.org 60

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Could German be the Language for you?

BY Susanne Wardle, director and founder of The German Teacher

W

hether you have always wanted to learn a new language or refresh your language from school, German is a great choice for any English speaker. Undeniably German is similar to English, as you say the letters you see and it is very structured.

Whether you decide to learn German or any other language, here are the top tips: Firstly, pick a language which is relevant to you.

So, it might be your holiday destination, or you might have friends who are native speakers or speak the language well. Do you need the language for work or will it further your career?

Did you enjoy the language at school and wished you kept it up? Do you enjoy German films, books, music or composers? Whatever your reason, if the language is relevant to you, you will put the work in to learn it!

Secondly, you could learn a language with a partner, friend, group or your children? It is fun to learn together and apart from practising, you can correct and challenge each other.

Expect challenges on the way and have realistic expectations. It is unlikely that you will achieve fluency within a few months unless you have some prior knowledge. Your life will get busy at times and your language learning might not be your priority.

Be clear in your goal settings and convey this to your language teacher! What do you want to get out of your language learning? Any professional language teacher will have that conversation with you and tailor the lesson to your needs.

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Make a commitment to learning! 10 minutes of vocabulary learning a day is better than 1 hour in 7 days. Complete the set homework!

Have fun with the language: Listen to songs, label your house with post-its, write your shopping list in German, try your German out on friends and on holiday and watch German language films with subtitles.

BENEFITS OF LEARNING A LANGUAGE It opens your world to another way of thinking while gaining a deeper understanding of your own culture.

Languages let you connect you with different people and a different culture and limit barriers between people.

Foreign languages improve your analytical and problem-solving skills.

A foreign language opens the door to art, music, dance, fashion, cuisine, film, philosophy, science.

It undoubtedly has health benefits, as it sharpens your memory and helps to prevent the onset of dementia.

Learning a language is fun and gives you a sense of achievement.

Above all, there is no age limit and you might surprise yourself. Absolutely consider German as an option. It has a lot to offer and is easier than you think!

■ For more information on native 1 to 1 tuition, classes and more visit www.germanteacher.uk

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