ABC Magazine: Wansbeck Edition, June - July 2021

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WANSBECK EDITION | JUNE / JULY 2021

LOOK GOOD & STAY SAFE with The Batt House’s Claire Battista

ASPIRE HEALTH & FITNESS Banish those extra lockdown pounds

PUZZLES INSIDE

PAWTASTIC North East Dog Festival returns for 2021

NEW SPACE

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

AS H I N GTO N | STA K EFORD | PEGSWOOD | & S UR ROUN D I N G A R E A S1

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

Committed to Ashington.

Christopher, Ashington customer

At the heart of your town and your community. Save with us, and you’ll continue to help our high streets.

Visit us on Ashington high street.

newcastle.co.uk Newcastle Building Society Principal Office: 1 Cobalt Park Way, Wallsend, NE28 9EJ. Newcastle Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Newcastle Building Society is entered in the Financial Services Register under number 156058. You can check this on the Financial Services Register or by contacting the Financial Conduct Authority on 0800 111 6768. Call 0345 734 4345 or visit us online www.newcastle.co.uk.

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WELCOME TO ABC MAGAZINE

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Welcome to the Wansbeck edition of ABC, your bi-monthly local magazine.

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Published by: ABC Magazines, PO Box 225, Bedlington, NE63 3FL @yourabc

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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.

Unit 8D, North Tyne Ind. Estate, Whitley Road, Benton, NE12 9SZ (Opposite ASDA Beton) PramsNewcastle ∙ Open Tuesday to Saturday by appointment

Tel: 0191 266 1190 ∙ www.babythingz.com

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LANGUAGE SCHOOL

New for September 2021 in Bedlington!

Fully qualified teacher BA (Hons) and PGCE (University of Leeds and Universita per Stranieri di Siena).

Courses run all the way through the school year: £12 for a 2 hr class at The Old Police Station building in Bedlington, NE22 6HN. See this year's timetable below to choose a class: MONDAYS: Advanced Reading & Conversation 10-12 ∞ Italian for Improvers 12.30-14.30 WEDNESDAYS: Intermediate Italian 9.30-11.30 ∞ Advanced Reading & Conversation 12.30-14.30 THURSDAYS: Italian for Improvers 10-12.00 ∞ Italian for Absolute Beginners 12.30-14.30 FRIDAYS: Intermediate Italian 9.30-11.30 ∞ Intermediate Italian 12.30-14.30 Complimentary refreshments provided. Contact Sharon to book your space:

Email: letslearnbedlington@gmail.com or Tel: 07764 709 985 / 01670 207488 5

ADVERTISING FEATURE

ASPIRE HEALTH & FITNESS

The new owners at Aspire are ready to welcome you back to their newly refurbished Morpeth town centre gym If you’re looking to join a gym to rid yourself of any lockdown weight gain, then Aspire Health and Fitness can’t wait to welcome you in. Based on Newgate Street in the heart of Morpeth, Aspire Health and Fitness is a family business, owned and ran by Wayne and Christine.

The couple, both from an Information Technology (IT) background, have always had a keen interest in fitness and wellbeing.

Having looked at becoming part of the Business Community in the Morpeth area for a few years, when the gym that Wayne already trained in came up for sale last year, they seized the opportunity, and turned a hobby and a passion into reality.

Their aim is to make sure that every visit to the gym is a friendly, positive experience. A gym for all ages, genders, ethnicity, and all levels of fitness, with current members ranging from teens right the way through to their eldest members in their eighties.

We all know the year has been a real challenge for everyone.

However Wayne and Christine took advantage of their enforced closure and, having bought the business just as lockdown was announced, they took the opportunity to refurbish the gym while it was closed – and the feedback so far has been very positive. The gym boasts a cardio room which includes treadmills,

cross trainers, rowing machine, bikes and a stretch/warm up area with small weights, bar, kettle bells, resistance bands to mention just a few. The main gym is fully equipped with a great variety of machines including cable machines and a large free weights section to train all parts of the body.

If you are looking to work off those extra lockdown pounds, tone up, or if you just want to improve your level of fitness you can try one of their Training Programmes. From a simple one-off session, through to a more challenging 8 week plan, the programmes include exercise instruction and nutrition information.

Both plans would be provided by our gym apprentice Amy who is currently working towards her Personal Training Level 3 Diploma at Newcastle College. They also have Personal Trainers available to book should this be your preferred option to assist in meeting your fitness goals.

There are various membership options available including single sessions, weekly and monthly memberships, a Pay As You Go card with 10 pre-paid sessions offering more flexibility, as well as monthly Direct Debit and yearly memberships.

There are no joining fees or minimum term contracts.

Wayne, Christine and all the team are very conscious of keeping the gym as covid safe as possible with hand sanitisers, disinfectant and towels around all areas of the gym and members are asked to wipe down equipment before and after use.

Whilst a lot of us have got used to either working out from our homes or outdoors, there is nothing like training in a proper gym, with high quality equipment and professional trainers on hand to ensure you get the most out of your workouts. So why not pop in and have a look around Aspire Health and Fitness and see for yourself the facilities on offer.

▪ Aspire Health & Fitness, 76 Newgate St, Morpeth NE61 1BQ Tel: 01670 457494 Facebook: @AspireHFMorpeth

CHRISTINE AND WAYNE

NEWLY REFURBISHED Whether you want to lose weight, tone up or improve your fitness, we look forward to welcoming you to our friendly, family run gym.

Why not pop in and have a look around, no obligations, it would be great to see you.

ALL AGES & FITNESS LEVELS WELCOME FLEXIBLE MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE STRETCH/WARM UP AREA CARDIO ROOM CABLE MACHINES LARGE FREE WEIGHTS SECTION

TRAINING PROGRAMMES AVAILABLE

From a simple one-off plan through to a more challenging 8 week plan, including exercise instruction and nutrition information. Ask for details!

76 Newgate Street, Morpeth NE61 1BQ 01670 457 494 facebook.com/AspireHFMorpeth Open: 7am - 8pm Monday to Friday 9am - 3pm Saturday | 10am - 2pm Sunday

** NO JOINING FEES & NO MINIMUM TERM CONTRACTS **

LO C A L N E W S

LOCAL WALKING CLUB SEEKS NEW MEMBERS Established in 1988, the Phoenix Walking Club offers a warm welcome to new members throughout the year with a wide variety of walks and locations.

Walks are planned every week, mainly in Northumberland and Durham, but also as far afield as the Scottish Borders, The Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales and Moors.

The walks are held on a different day each week, except for Sundays, so anyone with work or other commitment can easily arrange their walking plans around them. Transport is provided each walking day by two coaches, with four pick up points in North Tyneside making it easy to choose the most convenient.

Leaders provide a number of walks each week with different lengths and terrain and members are free to choose the one they prefer depending on how energetic they feel. Walks are normally between eight and sixteen miles, and all end up at a designated pub for a welcome pint, coffee, rest and chat.

Bookings for walks can be made online, but there is a club coffee morning every Friday in Chirnside House, Tynemouth, where bookings can be made for a number of weeks ahead, or simply for the week ahead, whichever is best for you.

Obviously, during Covid restrictions, the club has been unable to offer a full programme, but there should be a full range of walks beginning in August if the easing of restrictions continue as planned.

If you're interested in joining this friendly and sociable Club, there's plenty of information on their website, www.phoenixwalkingclub.org

STYLISTI" Everything you need to look amazing under one roof!

160 STATION ROAD, ASHINGTON, NE63 8HG For an appointment please call

01670 813 013

Opening Times : Mon & Wed 9am-5pm, Thurs 10am-8pm, Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-5pm

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JOGAFLOWS WELLBEING STUDIO

A vibrant yet calming wellbeing space situated in the heart of Guidepost Northumberland.

Holistic Therapy

Invest time in you and indulge in pure relaxation with our signature package: Mind Body & Soul - The ultimate relaxation and restorative package .

A combination treatment including a holistic facial, hot stone & holistic back massage, followed by reiki/crystal therapy. Delivering 90 minutes of pure pampering.

Set in a calming, relaxing environment. Bespoke to meet your individual needs - £38.00 Also available with Jo: Holistic Back Massage, Hot Stone Massage, Facials, Crystal Therapy, Meditation and Reiki.

Beauty Treatments

A vast range of beauty therapies including Nails: Gel & Acrylics, Waxing , Eyebrows: Henna and High Definition, Tinting, Make-Up, Eyelash Extensions, Spray Tans, Pedicures

Retail Therapy

Selling a range of ladies clothing, handbags, crystals, incense, wax melts, burners, soaps, bath bombs, shower steamers, ornaments, gifts and so much more.

Yoga

Offering a variety of traditional Hatha Yoga Techniques in movement, breath and meditation to help each student practice yoga on their own personal level. All poses are adapted to suit all levels. Yoga is not about how you look - it’s about how it makes you feel physically, mentally and spirituality. Are you ready to make a positive change in your lifestyle?

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR CONTACT US USING THE DETAILS BELOW

Jogaflows Wellbeing Studio, 11 The Square, Guidepost, NE62 5DA 07850 583 852

facebook.com/jogaflow1

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LEISURE

The Joys of Retirement:

GETTING CREATIVE

If you’re retired and wondering how to fill the time, then finding a creative outlet is a great way to promote wellness while producing a bespoke product to love at the end of the process.

the perfect opportunity to give it a try. If you have always enjoyed drawing, then adding colour to your work is the next natural step. First of all decide on the paints you want to use: watercolours can make beautiful colour transitions, oil paints create great textures and depth of colour, and acrylic paints dry quickly and are easy to use.

TOP TIPS: › Try sketching out your artwork before delving into the paints to get an idea of the image you want to create. › If you are new to painting entirely, why not try a painting by numbers activity kit, which are available in various skill levels, sizes and picture formats.

3 1

EMBROIDER AN ARTWORK

Your experience of embroidery may simply be from watching 18th century characters beavering away at the stitches on your favourite TV period drama, but it is great activity to focus on. You end up creating something beautiful too, whether that is a bunch of flowers, an animal or a modern slogan stitch. There are lots of different stitches to learn, from the simple backstitch, to the artistic woven wheel and French knot, which all combine to create an intricate picture.

However, if all that sounds too complicated, then have a go at cross stitch. This is another popular form of embroidery that only involves learning one stitch, but creates equally beautiful results. When you feel more confident you can produce your own designs

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on scarves and cushions for example, and make unique gifts for you and your loved ones.

TOP TIPS: › Start with a step-by-step kit as it will come with all the equipment and instructions you need to complete your first embroidery. › If you get stuck on a particular stitch, look up video tutorials online or purchase a book of embroidery stitches to help you along your way.

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PASS THE PAINTS

Painting can be a fun and relaxing way to spend an afternoon, but many of us never find the time to lay out the paints and really get creative, which makes retirement

COOK UP A FEAST

Retirement offers a great opportunity to enjoy cooking.

Start by picking up a recipe book, having a flick through and marking the pages of the meals that look delicious. Take pride in selecting your ingredients by visiting local farmer’s markets, butchers and fish counters.

You can also enjoy this activity with your family and friends too. Why not try making different flavoured scones, from rhubarb and ginger to apple and blackcurrant, then host a taste testing afternoon tea with your friends. If you are looking after the grandchildren for the day too, baking cupcakes of varying flavours before decorating them is a great way to have some fun.

TOP TIPS: › See what food you have nearing expiry in the fridge and store cupboards, then use the index of the cooking books to discover recipes. This way you save on food waste. › Stop off at a second-hand bookshop for a browse of the cookery book section for new recipe inspiration.

WELCOME BACK TO CHOPPINGTON SOCIAL WELFARE CENTRE OON

N

COMING S

WHAT’S O

LITTLE SHOOTERS JUNIOR FOOTBALL TRAINING SESSIONS A great place for 4 to 6 year olds to learn basic football skills & drills amongst a friendly group of kids & qualified Trainers. They can advance into playing competitively in one of the junior teams.

If the older brothers or sisters as well as the mums & dads want to participate there are teams from the under 7’s up to 40 years old.

Contact Marc the Coach on 07855 954783 for more info.

CARPET BOWLS Wednesdays 7pm to 9.30pm Part of the centre for over 30 years. A very friendly group of people, some of whom have played Bowls at the highest level for County & league competitions.

They have also raised thousands of pounds over the years to donate to various charities. Come along and learn the skill attached to Carpet Bowling from some of the best Bowlers of their time. Contact the centre

PILATES CLASS Thursdays 6pm - 7pm With Gill Glass. Enjoy this popular way of exercising and help losing those few extra pounds put on during the Pandemic Lockdown with the aim of getting fit.

Call 07742 885165 to book your place.

TO HELP US KEEP EVERYONE SAFE, ALL ACTIVITIES MUST BE PRE-BOOKED. Limited numbers can attend each session.

COVID rules must be adhered to. Contact details for Track & Trace are required and a mask or visor must be worn in the centre.

For more information or to book an activity call Neal on Email:

Lots more activities and groups will be restarting soon when COVID restrictions allow, see the list below. Please look out for posters and adverts or keep checking with the centre for updates:

• • •

Line Dance Group 3 x sessions a week Junior Line dance class Community Choir Wansbeck Voices (Male & Female Members welcome) Card Craft Classes Sequence Dance Groups 2 x sessions each week Computer Group Monday Evening Computer for Beginners Computer Drop in Session Weds afternoon Computer Fault Finding session Snooker Room Table Bookings (booking a table is a must) Veterans Snooker Groups x 2 Local History Group Indian Head Massage sessions Cake Decorating Classes Art Class sessions for Beginners Printing your Digital Photographs Photo Frame Making • Table Tennis Group Badminton Group • Volley Ball Group Martial Arts Training • Yoga Sessions

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

?

Is there an activity you’d like to participate in but can’t find a location offering it?

Contact us and we’ll see if we can make it happen!

Also, if you have the skills to help run any of the activities listed above or something new - please get in touch!

01670 822 028

neal@choppington.org

BECOME A MEMBER £5 PER YEAR OR £4 FOR OAP & JUNIOR

Choppington Social Welfare Centre, Fernlea Drive, Scotland Gate, Choppington NE62 5SS

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ADVERTISING FE ATURE

LOOK GOOD, STAY SAFE

Claire Battista, Aesthetic Independent Nurse Prescriber and owner of The Batt House, discusses how to stay safe when considering an aesthetic treatment.

There is a continuing rise in the popularity of injectable aesthetic treatments such as Botox and fillers. In the UK the aesthetics industry is completely unregulated, meaning anyone can set themselves up and offer these treatments to members of the public. It is important for members of the public to be aware of this and also to know that Botox is a prescription only medication and should only be administered by a Nurse Prescriber, Cosmetic Doctor or Dentist.

At the Batt House we have seen a rise in patients asking for our help when they have undergone treatments carried out by people who are not qualified or registered healthcare professionals.

Aesthetics treatments such as Dermal fillers and Botox are injectable treatments, which always carry an element of risk. It is so important when choosing a professional to carry out your treatment to ensure they have a medical qualification and the appropriate experience and training to ensure your safety.

Medical professionals are trained and experienced professionals who are equipped with the skills and knowledge to take a fully comprehensive medical history, assess suitability of a patient for treatment, and manage any complications that may arise from a treatment. Emergency situations can arise from aesthetics treatments, making it important you choose a clinician that is equipped to deal with such emergencies. As an experienced healthcare professional, I am qualified and experienced in detecting and responding to emergency procedures, aseptic technique, infection control, anaphylaxis, management of infection and wound care, medications contraindications, taking a consultation, prescribing and administering medication.

Treatments such as Botox are carried out using prescription only medication and as such the person administering your treatment should

be a qualified prescriber like myself.

Sadly, within this industry people have the ability to purchase unregulated products from the internet, set themselves up as an “advanced aesthetic practitioner” and carry out treatments with products that are not licensed for use in the UK. Making it so confusing to the general public as to whether the person treating them is a medical professional.

Always ask for the name of the product to be used and ensure it has a CE mark. You can do this by asking to see the box the product is in. CE marking indicates conformity with health, safety and environmental protection standards. If you can’t see this do not go ahead with treatment!

Having an aesthetics treatment is a great opportunity for me as a Nurse to restore confidence and allow my patients to look and feel their best. It is important to remember that both Botox and filler treatments are safe and effective with complications happening very rarely in well trained and safe hands. When they do, you really do need to be in the hands of someone that can manage it in a timely and professional manner. Most complications require management by prescription only medication which is why it is so important to ensure your clinician can like myself prescribe medication. When choosing a healthcare professional for your treatment it is also worth remembering we are all regulated by our governing bodies and have codes of conduct to follow to ensure safety, ethical practice and care for all of our patients.

MY TOP TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE WHEN SEEKING AN AESTHETIC TREATMENT: ·· Ensure your chosen clinician is a qualified and registered healthcare professional. ·· Ask to see a copy of their qualifications and training. ·· You can check qualifications by asking for their professional body so you can check they are registered with the appropriate regulatory body. For example,

Claire Battista, RN(DIP)He BSc(Hons) NIP

··

··

·· ··

·· ··

as a qualified nurse I, like all registered nurses am a member of the Nursing and Midwifery Council. www.nmc.org Make sure your clinician purchases their Botox and filler products from a UK aesthetic Pharmacy.

Ensure a full consultation takes place prior to treatment, which considers your full medical and social history.

Ask about complications and how they would be managed.

Be aware that claiming to be an aesthetic practitioner does not mean that person is a health care professional.

Ensure they are fully insured and trained in the treatments they are offering.

Use The Aesthetics Complications Experts Group website to find a practitioner.

You will find The Batt House registered on there! This group is for qualified medics, providing support with complications and continuing education. If your clinician is a member of this group you are rest assured they will have local, national and worldwide support from other medics if complications arise. www.acegrouponline Claire offers free consultations for anyone considering an aesthetic treatment.

The Batt House is an at home clinic based in Bedlington which can be contacted by email at thebatthouse@yahoo.com or by direct message on Facebook or Instagram @batthousecc

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REGISTERED WITH THE HEALTH & CARE PROFESSIONS COUNCIL

affordable, high quality private dentistry At Bedlingtonshire Dental Practice we provide Late night appointments 3 days a week Easy access with ground floor facilities Guaranteed registration with the practice Access to daily emergency appointments 24 hour helpline number for dental emergencies at home and abroad, 365 days a year for practice plan members

We offer a wide range of treatments including Children’s dentistry Restorative dentistry Bespoke dentures Quick Straight teeth Cosmetic dentistry Smile design Prevention Implants Invisalign® Bleaching Facial aesthetics Sedation for adults and children. Intravenous and inhalational sedation If you’re unhappy with your smile or would like a routine check up

CALL US NOW 01670 828402 or email toothurty@btinternet.com

Bedlingtonshire Dental Practice 30 Front Street East, Bedlington, NE22 5AA

LOCAL NEWS

NEW TECHNOLOGY AIMS TO CUT SPINE ROAD CRASHES New technology is being introduced on one of the county’s busiest roads in a bid to cut accidents.

The A189 southbound approach to the A19/A189 Moor Farm Roundabout, near Cramlington, has an unwanted record of rear end shunt type collisions – and the roundabout itself is the number one collision hotspot in Northumberland.

Research has pinpointed factors including high approach speeds and variable queue lengths combining to increase the potential for rear end shunts when a driver misjudges the speed of, and distance to, both slow moving and stationary vehicles ahead.

Despite significant signage, road markings, improved road surfacing and a reduced speed limit, crashes have continued, causing concern for local residents.

Now the council has teamed up with Clearview Intelligence Ltd, a company who utilise technology to address road safety and traffic congestion problems, to develop a scheme which will provide drivers with real time information of the traffic situation ahead.

It will involve the installation of LED signs which activate when the traffic situation ahead requires additional warning and reduced approach speeds.

Using vehicle detection equipment linked to advance LED signage, the system will encourage southbound drivers to approach slowing and queuing traffic at appropriate speeds.

The signs will activate to display a “Queues Ahead” warning sign and an appropriate advisory speed limit when road sensors detect traffic ahead slowing 14

or queuing. Once the scheme is installed it will be monitored over the forthcoming months as traffic volumes eventually return closer to pre Covid-19 levels.

Councillor John Riddle,Cabinet Member for Local Services, said: “With over 3,000 miles of roads in our county, improving safety is always a priority, especially where evidence shows there’s increased risk of accidents. This high-tech solution should hopefully lead to a reduction in incidents, although we’d still stress drivers need to pay attention at all times and be prepared to react to changes ahead of them.”

County Councillor for Cramlington Village, Councillor Mark Swinburn, said: “While this stretch of road is used by thousands of vehicles every day it was seeing far too many accidents and it was a concern for both me and local residents. Despite improvements to signs, speed limits and road surfaces it was clear more needed to be done and I’m pleased this new technology is being installed which should give drivers even more warning of conditions ahead.”

Andy Salotti, Client Relationship Director at Clearview Intelligence added: “We pride ourselves on working with our clients to develop technology solutions to road safety problems. It's been a pleasure working with Northumberland County Council to provide a specific solution, using proven technology, to their issue on the A189 at Cramlington.”

Leading Nursery Brands at Everyday

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Tel: 07971 321495 or 01670 368 653

Book your bike in online:

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Dawn Lang Funeral Services YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT FUNERAL DIRECTOR • 24 HOUR SERVICE

Covering Ashington, Morpeth and Bedlington areas You can tailor any of our funeral packages. You can also pre-pay for peace of mind.

Either pay now or in 12 monthly instalments with no additional instalment costs. Longer terms are available.

POPULAR CHOICE FUNERAL

£2,295

• Professional Fees • Doctors Fees • Care of Deceased • Hearse • Crematorium Fees • Humanist • Classic Coffin & Nameplate • Pall Bearers • Ashes Tube or Casket Limousine can be added for an additional £150

Also available: Direct to Crematorium package £1,495

TRADITIONAL FUNERAL

£2,895

• Professional fees • Doctors Fees • Care of Deceased • Chapel of Rest • Crematorium Fees • Pall Bearers • Traditional Coffin & Nameplate • Humanist/Minister • Order of Service • Hearse & 1 x Limousine

Also available: Horse Drawn Hearse package £3,595

£100 DISCOUNT ON ALL FUNERALS if accounts are settled prior to the funeral

We provide prepaid Funeral Plans

Call 01670 457 575 for help or advice at any time 73 Station Road, Ashington, NE63 8RS www.dawnlangfuneralservices.co.uk

• Fires & Fireplaces • Fire Surrounds • Gas Fires • Gas Stoves • Electric Fires • Multifuel Stoves • Heating Packages

COME HOME TO A LIVING FIRE 7 Market Place, Bedlington, NE22 5TN Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm

Dimplex Opti-Myst

Display & Demonstrate Approved Showroom

Tel: 01670 632717 or 07541 697 991 Saturday 10am - 3pm

Sunday Closed

ADVERTISING FE ATURE

BOOKING A STAYCATION? TRY CRAWFORD HOUSE With 2021 being labelled the year for staycations in the UK, we have the perfect cosy getaway, Crawford House in Morpeth, Northumberland.

Crawford House is a two bedroom holiday home situated alongside the River Wansbeck.

We are Lisa and Mark and we started up Crawford House in the autumn of 2019, after moving out of the home due to our little family expanding. At the time we decided to keep the house on as a holiday home instead of selling, to see if we enjoyed the experience of being holiday home owners. Fast forward 18 months and, despite the pandemic, we still love the joys Crawford House brings us.

We have spoken to, and met some lovely guests over that time, and have had the pleasure of sharing our home with them.

We strive to ensure our guests have a 5 star experience when they come to stay with us, and the testimonials on our website demonstrate how our guests feel about their stay with us.

Morpeth is a great location to base yourself if you are wishing to explore what the rest of Northumberland has to offer you. Crawford House is perfect for those who want a good mix

of urban and rural experiences on their holiday. Morpeth has some great shops, restaurants, and bars to enjoy.

Crawford House is a 10 minute walk from Morpeth town centre, the train station and bus station. Although we have two bedrooms, we have the option to facilitate up to 6 guests, as we have a sofa bed available in the living space. The bedrooms feature a double bed in the main bedroom with two single beds in the twin room. You will find a smart TV with Netflix and Disney plus subscriptions included as standard for all our guests to enjoy. All linen, towels etc. are provided for our guests at no extra cost. We also have a travel cot and highchair for use by your little ones.

Crawford House is a dog friendly property, as we love to have your canine fiends as our guests too, at no extra charge.

The garden is fully secured so you have confidence in knowing the dogs are safe when you let them out to explore our outdoor space. Morpeth and

Northumberland have some great places to go with your dog, including a few pubs and cafés in the town of Morpeth itself.

We have all been apart from our family and friends for just over a year now and, there is light at the end of the tunnel that we will meet again. When that time comes, and it is safe to do so, think about Crawford House as a place for family and friends to stay if they do not live local to the area.

Our prices start from a £80 per night to book out the whole property and we operate a loyalty scheme where all returning guests get 10% of their next stay as a thank you for choosing us.

You can find us on Instagram and Facebook, @crawfordhousene. We do exclusive discounts for our followers on social media and run regular giveaways, including free stays and vouchers.

Look us up if you want to be in with the chance to win a free night.

For more information, visit www.crawfordhouse.co.uk 18 18

READY FOR YOUR UK STAYCATION?

Crawford House is a cosy two bedroom holiday home in Morpeth, Northumberland.

If you are looking for a home from home for a break, we have got you covered.

Morpeth is a great place to stay to explore the rest of Northumberland from, there are great attractions close by and stunning beaches to enjoy all year round.

• • • • • • • • •

Sleeps 6 people: Double Room, Twin Room & Sofa bed available Pets allowed; they stay for free Travel cot and highchair available for the little ones.

Smart TVs with Netflix and Disney Plus as standard Secure Back Garden with BBQ and Patio Furniture All bed linen, towels and kitchen amenities included Free Parking Located 15 minutes from Morpeth Train and Bus Station COVID Secure with enhanced cleaning between guests

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK

for a chance to win free night stays at Crawford House as well as exclusive discounts off future stays.

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★★★★★ 9.6 19

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Best of British!

UK COACH BREAKS WITH UNITED GROUP TRAVEL LTD 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 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

John Hindhaugh and Graham Wright

“Book with confidence. We have been granted a COVID-19 Industry Standard Certificate and if your tour is cancelled due to the COVID restrictions you will receive a full refund.” 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 Telephone: 01670 632460 / 07957 141654 www.unitedgrouptravel.com Facebook: United Group Travel Ltd E mail: graham.john.unitedgrouptravel@gmail.com Company no. 13052351

20 20

John & Graham

£30

DEPOS PER PERSITON SECURES YO UR BOOKING

2021- 2022 COACH TOURS Potters Resort All Inclusive! 17th September £389pp Three Shire’s 16th August £325pp* Lest We Forget 29th October £295pp* Christmas Markets Shopper 19th November £269pp* Turkey & Tinsel - Drymen 3rd December £275pp* Turkey & Tinsel - Scarborough 11th December £299pp All Inclusive Burns 6th January 2022 £325pp*

*plus single room supplement

See website or call for more tours / information

www.unitedgrouptravel.com 01670 632 460 \ 07957 141 654

21 21

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LEARN FRENCH

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

A WEEKEND OF FUN FOR YOUR FOUR LEGGED FRIEND The North East Dog Festival returns for 2021, but this year the fun is over two days!

T

he brainchild of business partners Rebecca Ashworth Earle and Dawn Oliver Doyle, the festival is now in its fourth year and was created after a realisation that the North East was lacking in dog events of this kind. Every year it becomes more popular, with people wanting to find new things to do with their dogs, explore and learn what's new in the world of dogs and have a great day out.

For the last 3 festivals, Kirkley Hall, a land-based college just outside of Ponteland, has been the perfect venue; allowing over 50 acres to create the festival and plenty of parking fields. Its location means it is easily accessible and gives plenty

of space to expand and create a fantastic visitor experience.

The festival takes a full year of planning and a full week of hands-on preparation at the venue to turn empty fields into an array of havea-go activities, display rings, dog shows and 100’s of trade stands.

This event was created with the ‘whole dog’ in mind and, as a team, they hold a very strong belief that dogs should be given the absolute best life possible for the short time they grace our lives - and that is very much the inspiration for this event.

Activities are handpicked for the event with Dawn and Rebecca working closely with clubs having known many of them for several years.

Displays and guest speakers are carefully selected to bring the best entertainment coupled with education. Rebecca and Dawn do all of this themselves with knowledge and experience not only of the holistic dog but also in event management, social media marketing and everything in-between. With this approach they can put dogs at the centre of the festival and run a successful event at the same time.

The festival plays host to numerous have-a-go activities; flyball, gundog scurries, hoopers, parkour, scent games, fastest recall and temptation alley to name but a few. There are also three dog shows with lots of rosettes and prizes to be won. There will be two demonstration rings this year with showstopper displays from falconry and herding dogs. A Wellness marquee where guest speakers will be talking about nutrition, welfare, canine activities, and behaviour. Add in lots of shopping, food stalls and a funfair what more can you need Rebecca and Dawn are no stranger to dogs with over 40 years’ experience between them; having had dogs all their lives and both working their dogs, training in various disciplines, and competing in dog sports. Currently Rebecca shares her home with four working cockers and a collie-cross, whilst Dawn has seven working cockers. ​​As a team they live, breathe and work with dogs every day. The event is the result of years of passion, dedication, and investment to create an annual one-of-a-kind festival for dogs; and they hope to be able to continue for many years to come.

▪ www.northeastdogfestival.com

Care visits at home We care passionately

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of e g n ra ade to e g u h lity m nds qua sure bli meatorised blidndaswnings • Mo opies an n • Ca fect fit r e • P tters u h S n • netia e V • d e t a • Ple ler l o R l • rtica e V • od • Wo el n a •P man • Ro x lu • Ve

ke o p s be ains curt

Unit

RECIPES

ETON MESS

The simplest of desserts but possibly the best way to use succulent strawberries.

INGREDIENTS

Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: If making meringues allow 2 hr 30 mins plus cooling. Otherwise, no cooking time!

Serves: 6

For the meringues (or you can use good quality shop-bought meringue nests) 175g caster sugar 1 thick lemon slice 3 egg whites, at room temperature 1 pinch salt To assemble the mess 500g ripe strawberries 50g caster sugar 450ml double cream 1 tbsp icing sugar 1 tsp vanilla paste Mint for garnish

METHOD

Meringues 1. Preheat the oven to 220C / gas 7.

Line a baking tray and pour the sugar on to it then bake in the oven until it just begins to melt at the edges. Rub the inside of the mixing bowl with the lemon (this gets rid of any grease) and add the egg whites. Just before its time to take the sugar out of the oven, start whisking the whites at high speed.

2. Carefully tip the hot sugar and the salt into the fluffy foamy whites.

Continue whisking until the mixture is cool, glossy and forms soft peaks.

Lower the heat in the oven to 130C / gas ½. Heap dollops of meringue on to lined baking trays, making sure they are well spaced. Bake in the cool oven for about two and a half hours. Check after two hours. The outsides should be crisp and golden but not burned! Turn off the oven

and leave the meringues inside to cool completely.

The mess 1. To prepare the strawberries: wash and hull the fruit, and slice into half or quarters. Aim for bite-size pieces. Place the strawberries in a bowl, sprinkle with the caster sugar, making sure all the strawberries are coated. Place in the fridge for half an hour until the fruit goes squidgy and leaks juices.

2. Set a third of the strawberry mixture on one side for later. Using a potato masher lightly crush the

rest into a chunky puree. Pour the double cream into a big bowl (it’s best if the bowl is cold). Sift in the icing sugar and the teaspoon of vanilla paste (not essence) and whip to soft peaks.

3. Roughly squash and break six of the meringues. Fold the pieces and the crushed strawberries into the whipped cream. Don’t mix too thoroughly. The red and white should be clearly distinct.

4. Leave in a big serving dish so people can help themselves, or spoon into tall glasses, topped with a sprig of mint.

STRAWBERRY, FETA & PINE NUT SALAD Berries, feta and sweet balsamic — perfect for sharing

20g Pine Nut Kernels • 120g Strong Wild Rocket • 300g strawberries, trimmed and quartered • 100g Greek Feta • 1tbsp balsamic glaze 1.

2.

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Put the pine nuts in a dry frying pan and toast over a medium heat until they turn golden.

Layer the rocket on a serving platter. Top with the toasted pine nuts and strawberries, then crumble over the feta and season with a grind of black pepper. Drizzle with the balsamic glaze to serve.

The

3D Cakery

Cakes made for all occasions

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margaret@the3dcakery.co.uk 29

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 30

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 newspacegarageconversions.co.uk

CONVERT YOUR GARAGE TO A HOME OFFICE

NewSpace Loft Storage We create space so everything has a place

LOFT STORAGE SPACE PACKAGE

WE ARE SPECIALISTS IN CREATING HOBBY ROOMS

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

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.

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• Complete bespoke service

TECHNICAL SUPPORT COMMERCIAL INSTALLATIONS

Tel: 0191 230 0999

or visit us online at: www.tvsdigital.co.uk 77 CHEVIOT VIEW | PONTELAND | NE20 9BH 31

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

ENJOY YOUR CONSERVATORY ALL YEAR ROUND

If you’re fed up with your conservatory being either freezing cold or blistering hot. Here, 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

32

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!

■ www.thermosroof.co.uk

★★★★★ Check out our 5 star reviews on Facebook

@thermosroof

Is your conservatory: Too cold in the winter? & too hot in the summer?

Does it have problems with: Too much sun glare?

Condensation build-up?

Noise from heavy rain?

An unsightly dirty roof?

We can fix ALL of these issues with a Thermos Roof insulation system We can carry out a full install in a single day, leaving zero mess and instant results. We retain your existing roof profile & do Prices from not remove your current roof. A 5 year warranty is included.

£799

PART

P

Electrical Safety

Call Steve on 01670 828 695 or 07901 506 645 or visit our website www.thermosroof.co.uk During these unprecedented times, to ensure your safety and ours, all our staff and fitters wear 33 PPE where suitable and, upon completion of each job, your Conservatory will be fully disinfected.

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

QUALITY, AFFORDABLE, GARAGE DOORS

COULD A NEW GARAGE DOOR INCREASE THE KERB APPEAL OF YOUR HOME? What does your garage door say about your home? Never thought about it? Perhaps you should. As the housing market booms and people begin to think about upgrading or downsizing, the right garage door can significantly increase the kerb appeal and even the price of your house.

Up and over garage doors consist of a single panel of material. The door has to be pulled out and then pivoted up so it can slide along the roof of the garage. Roll-up garage doors, on the other hand, are made of a number of horizontal sections which are hinged together for flexibility. Because it rests on rollers, it can be lifted, and rolled into place along the roof of the garage.

Sectional roll-up doors are more expensive as a rule but have certain advantages. Since these doors don’t have to be pulled outwards they are a great option if space on your drive is tight. They also take up less room in the garage since they can be placed higher than a up and over door.

Both types of doors are usually made from wood or steel. Wood is generally cheaper, and some people prefer the look. However, just like 34

wooden patio furniture, a wooden door is more easily damaged by the weather and may warp, split, or blister.

Steel is more expensive. It isn’t prone to warping but does need to be properly treated to prevent rust.

Remember a garage door will be exposed to everything the weather can throw at it day in and day out, so will need regular maintenance.

Doors should be washed down regularly. Wooden garage doors need to be repainted in alternate years to ensure that the wood stays protected.

Steel doors can be painted and treated to an occasional shine with car wax. All moving parts should be lubricated with motor oil whenever the door starts to feel stuck.

Consider…

Remote control - For ease, convenience and even safety you can’t beat a remote-controlled door.

Override - Make sure the remote can be manually overridden in case of power failure. You don’t want the kids, or the dog trapped in there, or even yourself.

Security - Automatic door locking

mechanisms are useful.

Safety – This one is a top priority. To ensure that an electric garage door is deemed safe for use, it will have to incorporate at least one sufficient safety feature into its mechanism which will prevent personal injury.

Every year children and adults are injured in accidents which involve older style garage doors. New doors should have an automatic reverse function. That way, if the door encounters any object as it is closing it will immediately stop and back-up.

Approved by the Guild of Master Craftsmen, AI Garage Doors have been supplying, installing and maintaining garage doors in the Northumberland, North Tyneside and most areas of the North East for over 15 years, building a reputation as reputable and trusted specialists.

They offer a wide range of garage doors in a variety of colours, materials and features whilst offering excellent service and price without compromising on safety or security.

They will guide you through the process, ensuring you select the right garage door to meet your requirements.

They also offer a full repair and maintenance service to keep your garage door running smoothly, so, whether you have something minor from a broken spring or snapped cable, or require a fully fitted automatic double door, they can help!

▪ AI Garage Doors. Tel: 07931 304057 www.aigaragedoors.co.uk

TILE NORTH EAST

LTD

K I T C H E N T I L E S | B AT H R O OM T I L E S | F LO O R T I L E S

UNIT 3, HUBBWAY BUSINESS CENTRE, CRAMLINGTON, NE23 8AD OPPOSITE AZURE GARDEN CENTRE Tel: 01670 716 767 Email: tilenortheast@outlook.com www.tilenortheast.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

GIVE SOMEONE POWER OF ATTORNEY… BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE Lasting Powers of Attorney are invaluable documents as part of the overall planning of your estate as managing your financial affairs can become more difficult as you get older. If a person is unable to manage their affairs due to mental incapacity and they have not made a valid Enduring or Lasting Power of Attorney, their assets will be frozen as no one (including their spouse and children) has the authority to deal with them.

At this point someone will need to apply to the Court of Protection to be appointed as the person’s Deputy. The Court will then authorize the Deputy to deal with the person’s affairs in a certain manner. This is a very time consuming (around 6 months) and expensive (in the region of £1,750) process.

This situation can be simply avoided through the making of a Lasting Power of Attorney.

By making a Lasting Power of Attorney you can decide whom you would like to manage your affairs in the event that you are unable to do so either due to physical or mental incapacity.

There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney that can be made, one dealing with your property and financial affairs and the other dealing with your personal welfare.

PERSONAL WELFARE This power gives your attorney the authority to make decisions regarding your healthcare and medical treatment.

PROPERTY AND AFFAIRS This power enables your attorney to deal with your bank accounts and your property. This includes decisions in relation to selling or renting your property, paying your bills, applying for benefits you are entitled to and all aspects of dealing with your bank accounts, savings and investments.

36

All work we undertake is at fixed fees: Single Property and Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney: £300 inclusive of VAT Double Property and Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney (suitable for couples): £420 inclusive of VAT Single Will: £180 inclusive of VAT Mirror Will: £240 inclusive of VAT It is imperative that specialist advice is taken in order to ensure that the power given accurately reflects your wishes.

Call Crichton Wills Trusts & Probate on 01670 514772 and speak to a specialist adviser today who will be happy to discuss any concerns you may have and offers a free no obligation appointment in the comfort of your own home.

55 Beaumont Court, Pegswood, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 1BF

Price of Family Trust £1,800 (inc. VAT)

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

Davidsons of Morpeth add Volkswagen brand to their dealership Davidsons of Morpeth, located at Coopies Way, are proud to announce they have recently added the Volkswagen brand to the dealership and are delighted to be an authorised service dealer undertaking any service, repair or warranty work on all Volkswagen vehicles.

Colin Davidson, Business Manager, explains “For us this is an exciting addition to our business. Volkswagen is a quality brand that we are very proud to represent alongside Vauxhall’”.

The management team at Davidsons have attributed the continual success to great customer service and strong values. “We treat all our customers like family. The second they come into the garage we ask ourselves – if this was our mother or father how would we treat them?”

Colin Davidson states “This approach, as well as a relentless strive for a flawless experience, has allowed us to maintain and grow a loyal customer base as they trust our ethical approach.”

He feels that the business is well positioned locally for Volkswagen drivers to enable customers to frequent the dealership without the need to

“Davidsons are well positioned locally for Volkswagen drivers to enable customers to frequent the dealership without the need to travel unnecessarily” travel unnecessarily, especially given the difficult times we currently face with the pandemic.

Davidsons have robust and exemplary measures in place to reassure customers from a COVID perspective. They provide a contactless service throughout, in both the Sales and Service departments. The premises are methodically and regularly deep cleaned and sanitised. Likewise, each and every car is thoroughly cleaned and sanitised before customers come in to contact with them.

Tony Waite, an experienced member of the Service Department says “We have really worked hard to stand out from the crowd with the standards we offer to our customers. They are the lifeblood of the business. We receive endless thanks and compliments from our customers which really does delight and drive us. “ Colin and the team at Davidsons say “We’re excited to see what the future holds for us and our customers.”

■ To book call 01670512115

www.volkswagen.co.uk/retailers/75007/davidsons-of-morpeth-morpeth 38

TOTALLY

MEN

Offering all aspects of Barbering

We pleased to be welcoming Kerry back to Totally Men Thur, Fri and Sat 9am to 1pm 122 Station Road, Ashington Tel: 01670 858 759 Open: Weds, Thur & Fri 9am-6pm • Sat 9am-4pm Mon & Tues Closed

NewSpace Loft Storage We create space so everything has a place

LOFT STORAGE SPACE PACKAGE

WE ARE SPECIALISTS IN CREATING HOBBY ROOMS

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

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.

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

FOR ONLY £495

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

CALL US FOR FURTHER DETAILS

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

www.newspaceloftstorage.co.uk

CROSSWORD Across 3. Feline (3) 7. Evening jacket (6) 8. Sloping text style (6) 9. Tear (3) 10. Overpowered, routed (6) 11. Played at Wimbledon (6) 12. Young hen (6) 14. Increase in length or time (6) 17. Exits (6) 21. Souvenirs, trophies (6) 24. Disastrous failure (6) 25. Drifting (6) 26. Giant mythological bird (3) 27. Covert, private (6) 28. Cohesive (6) 29. High-pitched bark (3) Down 1. Writing table with drawers (6) 2. Concerning teeth (6) 3. Member of the musical brass family (6) 4. Pussyfoot (6) 5. Red semi-precious stone (6) 6. Sight (6) 12. Mate, chum (3) 13. Pasture, grassland (3) 15. The night before (3) 16. Spanish for ‘two’ (3) 18. Departed (6) 19. Church dressing room (6) 20. Athletic, active (6) 21. Daintier than a mug! (6) 22. Base unit of temperature (6) 23. Tidy, set straight (6)

MINDBENDERS

Can you find the hidden phrases?

SOLUTIONS

WORD SEARCH Can you find all of the ice cream flavours hidden in the grid?

BANOFFEE BUBBLE-GUM BUTTERSCOTCH CHERRY CHOCOLATE COCONUT

COFFEE COOKIE DOUGH HONEYCOMB MINT CHOC CHIP NEAPOLITAN PISTACHIO

ROCKY ROAD RUM ‘N’ RAISIN SALTED CARAMEL TUTTI FRUTTI VANILLA

MINDBENDER 1. A foot in the door 2. The Last Leg 3. Cut a long story short

McGlone New Business Card.i1 1

14/08/2012 11:24:18

Northumbria

Flooring & Furniture

0

%

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01670 368811

e st fre intereance fin ble availa ly app T&C’s

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

IT’S TIME TO DINE ALFRESCO What’s new & trending in outdoor cooking for 2021, according to the experts at Dobbies

One of the best things about the warmer season has to be making the most of longer days and sunshine in the garden by dining alfresco.

Helping to furnish your garden to its fullest, Dobbies has something for every style of outdoor space. From the latest high-tech barbecues for outdoor cooking enthusiasts, to smaller more compact portable models that can be taken on beach trips and camping weekends – you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Outdoor Living Buyer at Dobbies, Lynsey Abbott, said: “Everyone should be able to enjoy the benefits of cooking outdoors, it’s such a staple of the spring and summer seasons. Quickly transforming your garden into a space for entertaining, from BBQs, pizza ovens, multifunctional firepits and chimineas – we have something for everyone. This year’s range features eco-friendly alternatives, bluetooth integrated controlled fans and wood-fired pellet grills to name a few. When warmer weather allows, it’s time to give the oven a break and rediscover the joy of cooking up delicious flame grilled food in yor outdoor space.”

Lynsey’s top 5 tips for BBQ beginners when it comes to choosing the right one for you…

•

• •

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Decide what fuel source is going to work best for you. Gas and electric have the advantage of being very easy to light and to control temperature, whilst charcoal and cooking on fire can take some getting used to but is definitely worth the time investment.

How often will you be using the BBQ? If you plan on using it regularly, you should consider investing more.

What size do you need, which is usually determined by how many people you will likely to be cooking for and, of course, how much storage space you have.

If you don’t have a garden shed or garage to store it in the colder months, you’ll need to think about a protective cover.

Get a thermometer - some models will have one built in, but it’s still handy to make sure temperatures are right to start cooking on.

Be creative on the grill! As much as you can’t beat a classic burger, there is so much more that can be cooked outdoors, from halloumi to whole joints and delicious grilled desserts. Just because you’re a beginner doesn’t mean you need to feel restricted, there is plenty of inspiration to be found on Instagram and Pinterest.

■ Find your local Dobbies Garden Centre at Gosforth Park, Gosforth, NE3 5EP | www.dobbies.com.

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DANCOOK 9000 FIREPIT £149 from Dobbies

DOBBIES OUTDOOR COOKING BUYER’S GUIDE...

TRAEGER PELLET GRILL £899

The world’s number one selling wood pellet grill. This versatile model can grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise and BBQ, with consistent, perfect results every time. As convenient as a gas grill, with even better taste than a charcoal grill.

LOTUSGRILL BBQ £150

Small and convenient to transport; double skinned bowl stays cool on the outside.

BIOLITE FIREPIT+ & BBQ £279.99 Burns wood and charcoal; USB rechargeable powerpack; Bluetooth integration to control fan intensity.

ECO GRILL BARBECUE £9.99

100% bio-degradable; usable anywhere; can be used in other grills. Simply requires a match to light, gives 2.5 hours cooking time. Perfect for camping and to take on the go.

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E N TE RTAIN M E N T

FILM REVIEWS STILLWATER Matt Damon becomes a relentless father in ‘Stillwater’, the newest dramatic thriller directed by Academy Award winner Tom McCarthy. The story follows an American oil-rig roughneck Bill Baker from Oklahoma who travels to Marseille to visit his estranged daughter Allison (Abigail Breslin) in prison.

Bill learns that his only daughter has been falsely arrested and charged with murder. But both father and daughter discover that they have no other legal options left. The man builds a new life in the small seaside city of France as he makes it his personal mission to exonerate his daughter.

Confronted with language barriers, cultural differences, and a complicated legal system, Bill is aided by a French woman, Virginie (Camille Cottin), and her eight-year-old daughter Maya. But the clock is ticking and Bill must decide how far he’s willing to go.

The daughter’s story was loosely based on the real-life event of Amanda Knox, an American who spent nearly four years in an Italian prison following her conviction for the murder of her roommate in 2007.

The movie is both directed and written by Tom McCarthy, who last directed ‘Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made’. He has received three Academy Awards in Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Director for his writing and direction on ‘Spotlight’, a biographical drama movie of the oldest operating newspaper investigative journalist unit in the US. ‘Stillwater’ is scheduled for release in UK theatres on Friday, 6th August 2021.

JUNGLE CRUISE

In ‘Jungle Cruise’, Emily Blunt plays Dr. Lily Houghton, a British scientist who tries to recruit a riverboat captain, Frank (Dwayne Johnson). Houghton enlists Frank’s help to take her and her brother, McGregor (Jack Whitehall), on an expedition down the Amazon in search of a mysterious tree that has the power to heal diseases.

The team faces several challenges during their quest, such as running into a deadly and poisonous snake and facing another team of explorers led by Aguirre (Edgar Ramirez) and his henchman (Jesse Plemons) who want to find the mystical tree first. Based on a Disneyland theme park ride, this movie is directed by Jaume ColletSerra and written by Michael Green, Glenn Ficarra and John Requa. The spectacular score is composed by James Newton Howard who collaborated with Metallica on an instrumental version of the song ‘Nothing Else Matters’ for the film. ‘Jungle Cruise’ also offers top-notch cinematography by Flavio Martínez Labiano.

The movie provides a wild adventure with action-packed, dangerous scenes that leave viewers squirming in their seats. It also invites you to predict what challenges they will encounter next. The overall moral is to be brave and courageous, but also that to overcome obstacles, one needs to think outside the box. The importance of teamwork and relentless effort to achieve a goal is central to the movie’s message. There are some mild violent scenes between characters, so parental guidance is advisable. ‘Jungle Cruise’ is due for release in UK cinemas on July 30th, 2021.

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A GOOD READ

By Willow Coby

WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING by Delia Owens

When a young man is found dead on the North Carolina coast the local police – and local residents – start looking for the culprit.

It doesn’t take long before they turn their attention to Kya, also known as the Marsh Girl. But is she guilty of anything more than being an outsider?

What follows is actually two stories intertwined. As the hunt for the murderer continues we learn of Kya’s life in the marsh. At the age of 6 she watched Ma walk away from their shack with a blue case and high heeled shoes.

Though Kya waited, her mother never returned and over the following months her siblings left as well, leaving her alone with Pa. He was often drunk or absent, so it was up to Kya to survive, until he finally left when she was 10.

To some extent, this is a coming-ofage story. It is an unforgettable novel; a celebration of nature and some of the most engaging parts are the descriptions of the marsh world through which Kya glides effortlessly in her canoe. It becomes a character in its own right.

There is no denying that this novel will stay with you long after you finish it and feel as if you have been along the journey though the marsh with Kya.

A GOOD DAY FOR CLIMBING TREES by Jaco Jacobs Don’t let anyone tell you that you are too young to take a stand. Sometimes all it takes is one simple, spur of the moment decision, to change your life forever.

Marnus was fed up. No one seemed to notice him. His older brother acts as if he is in charge, and his younger brother seems to know everything. But a single knock on the door, a petition, and a tree under threat, will ensure that everyone notices him.

This charming novel from one of South Africa’s most popular and prolific children’s authors will hook you in straightaway. It will make you laugh and will make you think about grabbing those opportunities that life gives.

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