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02 | November/December 2012

Make a Will with confidence Trust Manners Pimblett

Manners Pimblett have been providing high quality legal services to the local community for many years now. We approach wills and probate with the same dedication and attention to detail as all our other legal services, offering a bespoke, personal service.

We provide a range services, including;

• Making a Will • Probate and Estate Administration • Lasting Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection Applications • Trusts and Tax Planning • Nursing Home Costs

Trust us at Manners Pimblett with all your wills and probate requirements.

ST

Also at: 4 London Road North, Poynton, Cheshire SK12 1QZ. 01625 850 888 Sales Team 01782 204 392

CO NG LE TO N

(opposite The Commons)

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Now Open in Sandbach: 10 Congleton Road, Sandbach CW11 1HJ 01270 527 450

RO AD

For peace of mind simply call us on 0845 077 0772 or email us via our website www.mannerspimblett.co.uk

THE COMMON S

sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

November/December 2012

| 03

Are you a Wise Owl or a Head-Burying Ostrich when it comes to that d-word?

THIS month, we discuss the many complexities which can arise from NOT making a Will.

WHAT MOST PEOPLE THINK OR HOPE!

IF you die without a Will, all your money and possessions (your Estate) will be distributed, according to strict legal rules and regulations. These rules are called the Laws of Intestacy. In many cases, the Intestacy Laws distribute an Estate in a way the deceased would not have wanted, sometimes with disastrous results.

YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES will fall into one of the following categories: Married, Cohabiting or Single.

MARRIED: In the event of the death of a married person, the Intestacy rules divide the Estate into shares, with a share going to the surviving husband or wife (the spouse). The amount a spouse can inherit is restricted to an amount set by the Government.

with respect to finance and inheritance you are known as a Cohabitee and do not have the same rights as a married person. The general term, Common Law, means law-based judicial decisions and custom.

SO, if you are Cohabitee, the information on single people is more appropriate to you.

SINGLE: If a single person dies without a Will, the line of Inheritance can be complicated and can often involve relatives you have never even met!

HERE WE GO... first, you children will inherit your whole Estate - if there are no surviving children, next in line are your grandchildren - if you have no grandchildren, then both your parents - if both have died before you, then your brothers and/or nieces - if none, then your cousins (however far removed) and, if no cousins, everything goes to the Government... phew!

THE POPULAR BELIEF that a spouse automatically inherits everything is simply not true. This is because your nearest bloodrelations (children, parents, brothers, sisters etc.) are also entitled to take a share under the Intestacy Rules inherit, with the rising values of Estates, the SPOUSE'S SHARE could be the smallest one.

IF you are single and without a Will, I can hear you are thinking: 'Well, that's OK, it will go to my children, anyway'). That may be partly true, but what is also true is that it will take months and, possibly, years to sort out your affairs (obtain Probate), and the Solicitors who sort this out will charge THOUSANDS OF POUNDS for their work. This is money that, for the sake of making your Will (£45), you could have left your Children!

FACT: If you have not made a Will, even your life insurance policies will not be paid until probate has been granted, unless they are written into trust! (Probate will take many months, sometimes years, to be granted!).

Even if you have no Children or close family, many people would want their Estate to go to CLOSE FRIENDS or a CHARITY, rather than the GOVERNMENT OR UNKNOWN RELATIONS.

FACT: If your Children are orphaned and you have not appointed a guardian in a Will, then Social Services will decide who looks after them, including allocating them to Foster Parents).

FACT: If there are no surviving members of your family, the whole Estate would go to the Crown (Government).

COHABITING: Thousands of people live together without getting married.

Unfortunately, most think that, after a few years together or if Old watches wrist & pocket ladies or they have become gents, working or not all makes a Common Law especially OMEGA! husband or wife and POTTERIES ANTIQUES CENTRE have same rights as a married person. Let 271 WATERLOO RD, COBRIDGE there be no doubt about this. If you live Open 6 days or for home visits with another person unmarried (including Tel: SOT 201455 anytime single-sex couples),

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dsm-st14@hotmail.co.uk Sales Team 01782 204 392

sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

04 | November/December 2012

The Majesticare of life at Lawton Lawton way Manor Care Home Manor

Proud to be Lawton Recognised as Care an Excellent Manor Home Rated Home Proud to be Recognised as an Excellent Rated Home

Set in two acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, Lawton Manor, like all Majesticare’s luxury care homes, has always offered the best possible quality of life, and now with our Garden Rooms extension, we can offer residents, their friends and families even more.Lawton Manor, like all Majesticare’s luxury care homes, Setour in two acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, has always offered the best possible quality of life, and now with our Garden Rooms extension, we can offer have a their number of rooms available, featuring the highest possible standards of luxury and the latest ourWe residents, friends and families evenallmore. technology, including full en-suite with shower, electric profiling beds, flat screen TV and extensive views of countryside Wethe have a numberorofgardens. rooms available, all featuring the highest possible standards of luxury and the latest technology, including full en-suite with shower, electric profiling beds, flat screen TV and extensive views of residents from experienced staff who provide professional personalised care and a whole range the Our countryside orbenefit gardens. of services to enhance their lives. There is no better way to get a feel for the luxury and attention to detail we offer at Lawton Manor than to come forstaff a visit.

Our residents benefit from experienced who provide professional personalised care and a whole range of services to enhance their lives. There is no better way to get a feel for the luxury and attention to detail we At at Lawton Manor wethan offer: offer Lawton Manor to come for a visit.

•

24 Hour Nursing Care

•

At Lawton Manor we offer:

• •

•

Respite & Convalescent Care 24 Hour Nursing Care

•

Respite & Convalescent Care

•

•

Day Care

•

Palliative Care Day Care

•

Palliative Care

•

•

Long & Short Term Care

Specialist Care Long & Short Term Care Specialist Care

If you would like more information or have any questions about Lawton Manor and the Majesticare way of life, please call our House Manager, Ann Ball, on 01270 844200 If you would like more information or have any questions about Lawton Manor and the Address:way Lawton Manor, Church Lane, Church Lawton, 3DD Majesticare of life, please call our House Manager, Ann Stoke-on-Trent Ball, on 01270 ST7 844200 Email: lawtonmanor@majesticare.co.uk Website: www.majesticare. co.uk Address: Lawton Manor, Church Lane, Church Lawton, Stoke-on-Trent ST7 3DD Email: lawtonmanor@majesticare.co.uk Website: www.majesticare. co.uk

SeniorsToday Sales Team 01782 204 392 SeniorsToday

January/February 2012 | 03 sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com January/February 2012

|

November/December 2012

| 05

Lawton Manor Care Home Proud to be Recognised as an Excellent Rated Home

Set in two acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, Lawton Manor, like all Majesticare’s luxury care homes, has always offered the best possible quality of life, and now with our Garden Rooms extension, we can offer our residents, their friends and families even more.

We have a number of rooms available, all featuring the highest possible standards of luxury and the latest technology, including full en-suite with shower, electric profiling beds, flat screen TV and extensive views of the countryside or gardens.

Our residents benefit from experienced staff who provide professional personalised care and a whole range of services to enhance their lives. There is no better way to get a feel for the luxury and attention to detail we offer at Lawton Manor than to come for a visit.

At Lawton Manor we offer:

•

24 Hour Nursing Care

•

Day Care

•

Long & Short Term Care

•

Respite & Convalescent Care

•

Palliative Care

•

Specialist Care

If you would like more information or have any questions about Lawton Manor and the Majesticare way of life, please call our Business Manager, Ann Ball, on 01270 844200 Address: Lawton Manor, Church Lane, Church Lawton, Stoke-on-Trent ST7 3DD Email: lawtonmanor@majesticare.co.uk Website: www.majesticare. co.uk

Sales Team 01782 204 392

sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

06 |

November/December 2012

Christmas Ideas Capturing the 'spirit' of the season THE greatest family Christmas classic of them all will be 'haunting' Newcastle's New Vic Theatre this year.

Charles Dickens's 'A Christmas Carol' has been adapted and directed by the theatre-inthe-round's Artistic Director, Theresa Heskins, and brought to its stage by the creative team behind the brilliant 'Alice in Wonderland' and 'Peter Pan'.

partner, Jacob Marley, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come.

A top-notch cast features Paul Greenwood ('Rosie', ITV, 'Comedy of Errors', RSC) as flinty Ebenezer, while Hannah Edwards, who wowed the audiences as the eponymous heroine in the New Vic's 'Alice in Wonderland', takes on the roles of Christmas Past and Martha Cratchit.

'A Christmas Carol' runs from

Hard-hearted miser, Ebenezer Scrooge, discovers the true meaning of Yuletide during one, dramatic ghostly night in earlyVictorian London.

Featuring lavish costumes, wonderful music, magical staging and lots of laughter, it promises another special family Christmas round at the New Vic (The Guardian has lauded its previous Christmas shows as "a wonderful box of theatrical tricks").

Since its initial publication in December, 1843, when it enjoyed instant success and critical acclaim, Dickens's novella has never been out of print.

A blistering indictment of 19th century capitalism, it glories in Scrooge's ideological, ethical and emotional metamorphosis, following the supernatural visits of his deceased business

Saturdays, November 17th, to January 19th, 2013, at various times throughout the morning, afternoon and evening.

Tickets (priced at £14-£21, with a Family-of-Four ticket costing just £60 [must include one adult and one child]) are available from the New Vic's Box Office on (01782) 717962 or online at www.newvictheatre.org.uk

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sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

November/December 2012

| 07

Christmas Ideas You'll

be tempted by the friendly

atmosphere

&

service with a smile

THE Little White Cottage - located at Slater's Village, Baldwins Gate - is one of a kind, mixing a relaxed 'out-of-town' shopping experience with unique and affordable ladies' fashions and accessories.

The family business's main priority is to make women feel special and happy with what they buy, and, as a result, many customers come back time and time again, tempted by the friendly atmosphere and service with a smile.

The Little White Cottage stocks a wide range of casual wear from Adini, Pomodoro, Claudia C, Saloos and Jay Ley Collection.

Occasion Wear, Evening Wear and Mother of the Bride outfits from Nass C, Anonymous, Monaco and Goya of London are

also offered.

Complimenting hats and fascinators are for sale or hire.

Alongside the fashions, there is an array of accessories, including jewellery and handbags, as well as giftware, including Arran Aromatics and Ashleigh & Burwood fragrance lamps.

During this Autumn/Winter season, The Little White Cottage will have hosted three fashion shows, which, in total, will have raised approximately ÂŁ3,000 for local charities.

Look out for forthcoming events on the shop's website and/ or facebook page.

THE LITTLE WHITE COTTAGE IS NOW OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK! You can visit it from 11am to 4pm on Monday and between 10am and 5pm (Tuesday-Sunday).

pomodoro

Sales Team 01782 204 392

sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

08 |

November/December 2012

Christmas Ideas

The Collector GOLD & SILVER JEWELLERY AT BARGAIN PRICES WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY LEEK TRESTLE MARKET Ideal gifts for that special someone visit us at Ipstones Show

BUTTERMARKET, LEEK TEL: 07785 710200

KIDSGROVE MASONIC HALL AND INSTITUTE Liverpool Road, Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent

FUNCTION ROOM

01782 782102 / 782682

W M Williamson Ltd • Clocks for every occasion • Handbags and Purses • Pens and Pencils, Ballpoint in Gift Boxes • Cameras, Telescopes and Binoculars • Pictures, Paintings and Frames (also handmade to size) • Wedding photography / Photo Frames • Portrait and baby studies • Dogs' Photographs Jewellery: Rings in gold and silver.

Eternity, Signet and dress rings.

Bracelets, Pendants, Lockets, Crosses, Earings, Chains in silver and gold.

Wm. Williamson Ltd

16 Moorhouse Street No 6 The Buttermarket - Leek.

Located at: Coupe Sauvage 95-99 Hassell Street Newcastle ST5 1AX 10% off your first visit

Christmas Cakes, Christmas Puddings, Mince Pies Various Styles of your Choice.

call me on

Cake Decorations & Celebration Cakes

07875 095778 or 01782 662476

Available for Weddings • Parties • Birthdays • Christenings • Anniversaries • Funerals

Telephone:

PIECE of CAKE

Natalie Meir Hairdressing

Call Karen: 01538 398 939 / 07815 672 148

Guys & Dolls

SMITHFIELD

BAR & RESTAURANT (UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT)

Spe cialising in cutting, styling, blow dr ying, shampoo an d set, colouring & perming Various styles available

NEW MENU NOW AVAILABLE FOOD SERVED ALL DAY EVERY DAY 12 - 8PM SUNDAY LUNCH 12 - 6PM SPECIAL DISCOUNT FOR SENIOR CITIZENS 2 COURSES £5 (EXCLUDING CHARGRILL MENU)

Opening times: Tues-Thur 9am-6pm Friday 9am-7pm, Saturday 8.30am-4pm

FREE FUNCTION ROOM ANY EVENTS CATERED FOR

BOOKINGS FOR CHRISTMAS LUNCH NOW BEING TAKEN.

PARTY NIGHTS THROUGHOUT DECEMBER FOR GROUP BOOKINGS

70 WATLANDS VIEW, PORTHILL Tel: 01782 637717

LOWER BETHESDA STREET, HANLEY

01782 280 811

HARTSHILL CYCLES BIKES WANTED FOR CASH

All my gowns can be custom made in any size and colour

DISCOUNT NEW/USED BIKES FOR SALE Servicing from £20.00

All our wedding gowns are £199 or less All our Bridesmaid dresses are £139 or less All our flower girl dresses are £84.99 All pageboy outfits from £24.99 Chair Cover Hire £1.99 per chair including matching sash of your choice Delivery, set up & collection included

Hartshill Business Park Shelton New Road, Hartshill. ST4 6DS

52 The Strand, Longton Tel: 01782 313 505 PARKING AT REAR OF SHOP

07816 683299

HASLINGTON MODELS 134 Crewe Road, Haslington, Crewe. CW1 5RQ

01270 589 079

TO ADVERTISE TEL: 01782204392

Contact 07754 398240 183 HIGH ST. TUNSTALL ST6 5EA www.thedress2impress.co.uk

Appointed Stockists of

Hornby, Bachmann Graham Farish Heljan, Dapol, Peco, Gaugemaster, Precision Metals, B&R DVD’s, Humbrol, Plastruct, Kadee Couplings etc.

For All Your Model Railway Needs FOR A HELPFUL AND FRIENDLY SERVICE WHY NOT GIVE US A TRY.

Sales Team 01782 204 392

S.A. School of Motoring * 1st 5 Lessons for £10 * * £20 per lesson after * * Students £15 per lesson * Contact Steve on

01782 865615 or 07941 151514 sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

November/December 2012

| 09

Stoke Rep Theatre

The Syd Lawrence Orchestra at Stoke Rep

Big Band Wonderland Swing into the season of goodwill with Chris Dean and The “Best Big Band in the Land”.

Christmas would not be complete without the ultimate festive Big Band concert, packed with the music swing classics from the likes of Miller, Basie, Dorsey, Hefti, and Billy May to name but a few, alongside yuletide favourites, bringing non-stop Christmas cheer.

Help us spread holiday cheer with a veritable Christmas feast of Big Band goodies that should definitely roast your chestnuts.

20th December 2012 Tickets £18 available now from

Music Mania, Piccadilly Arcade, Hanley, SoT.

Telephone 01782 206000 Book online at www.stokerep.org.uk

Chiropody / Podiatry

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MOBILE CHROPODY / PODIATRY SERVICE State Registered Degree Qualified &Fully Insured

EVENING APPOINTMENTS

Nail Surgery &Local Anaesthetics General Foot &Nail Treatments Diabetic Foot Assessment

01889 592855 OR 07954 002893 Sales Team 01782 204 392

Double - Glazing

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Driveways & Patios

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Fishing Tackle

J. DARLOWS TACKLE & BAIT Quality Fishing Tackle Open 7 days a week

PET FOOD

Weekdays from 7am, weekends from 6am Debit & Credit Cards Accepted 164 Ford Green Road, Smallthorne, Stoke-on-Trent ST6 1NJ

01782 860068 sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

10 | November/December 2012 BROWNS 01260 273 403

FURNITURE

Retailers and manufacturers of quality furniture Established over 100 years in Congleton

Festive entertainment galore full of gift ideas for christmas Browns Furniture in Congleton has been established for over 100 years as a family run business based at its Lawton Street premises.

Browns are retailers and manufacturers of quality furniture and specialise in traditional and contemporary pieces of all aspects of your home, with furniture on display over 3 floors.

Browns can manufacture various pieces of furniture to your specification in our own workshop and also provide a restoration, repair, re-polishing and re-upholstery service. www.brownsfurniture.co.uk 36 Lawton Street, Congleton, Cheshire CW12 1RS

MYRIAD attractions await visitors to those near-neighbours, Congleton and Biddulph!

Congleton's Christmas Lights Switch-On and Grand Lantern Procession takes place on Friday, November 23rd.

Running from 4pm to 7pm, the event will

Biddulph Museum Help us with our Heritage

We need artefacts, paperwork and any other Intere sting items on Biddulph Things that you may throw away!

We are also trying to find a home for our museum So if you can help, please contact us

Call Robert on Tel: 01782 523855 Mob: 0798 4002953 Or view our website for address and e-mail http://www.biddulphmuseum.com

FREE UPGRADE TO NEW SETTANTA YOUR LOCAL uPVC WINDOW,DOOR & CONSERVATORY SPECIALIST UK’s First Approved Zero Carbon Window System A+ rated Super Insulating Lead Free Profile Secured by Design ROYAL STEET, CONGLETON, CHESHIRE CW12 1HR TEL: 01260 274505 www.congletonglass.co.uk Email: congletonglassco@btconnect.com

feature around 25 charity stalls in the pedestrianised area, a festive gift fayre in the Town Hall, hot-food stalls in the High Street, a Christmas play and a full evening of entertainment on the main stage and around the town centre, plus fireworks to complement the lights switch-on.

2012's theme is a sparkling crystal Christmas to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee and Olympic medal-winners.

The traditional lantern procession starts in the Community Garden, Lawton Street, and moves along High Street to the stage at the bottom of Moody Street (and not from The Lion and Swan and through the pedestrianised area, as in previous years, thus avoiding crowds joining in with the charity stall activities in the narrowest part of the town).

The Christmas Crackers group has also asked Santa Claus to refrain from using his sleigh, as it has proved too difficult to get it through the

THE GARAGE

(CONGLETON) MECHANICAL REPAIRS TO CARS & LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLES All insurance work undertaken

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FOOD NOW BEING SERVED SUN 12-6pm, MON, TUES 11-6 pm WED, THURS 11-3PM/5-8pm FRI, SAT 11-8pm

KIDS EAT FREE DEALS SENIOR CITIZEN MENU NEW COVERED SMOKING AREA AT REAR OF PUB LARGE FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE TO HIRE IDEAL FOR BIRTHDAYS, CHRISTENINGS, WEDDINGS ETC

Sunday lunch menu 12 - 6pm Ham, beef or turkey £5.95 (with all the trimmings)

SENIOR CITIZENS/CHILDREN £3.95

SENIOR CITIZEN MEAL DEAL

ALL PRICED AT £3.95 AND AVAILABLE FROM 11-6pm

bookings for Christmas Fayre NOW being taken Sales Team 01782 204 392

sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

November/December 2012

crowds and around the stage area!

Congleton Choral Society is staging its everpopular Annual Christmas Concert, featuring carols for choir and audience, at Congleton Town Hall on Saturday, December 22nd, starting at 7.30pm.

Prior to that, the Society will be making the same venue ring, when it performs 'Messiah'

by George Frideric Handel (1685-1759) on Saturday, November 10th, in a concert dedicated to the memory of its late President, Sir Bernard Lovell OBE FRS. 'Messiah' received a rapturous reception, following its premiere in Dublin in 1742.

It will be conducted by Christopher Cromar and accompanied by the Philharmonic Ensemble, led by Andrew Orton, with soloists, Sarah

Taylor Motors Ltd FULL SERVICE, REPAIR & DIAGNOSTICS 40 years experience

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| 11

Parkin (soprano), Emma Stannard (mezzosoprano), Jonathan Cooke (tenor) and Matthew Kellett (bass).

Tickets (priced at £12 [standard], £10 [concessions] & £2 [under-16s]) are available from Congleton Choral Society's Ticket Secretary on (01260) 276975, Congleton Tourist Information, Tel: (01260) 271095, or online via its ticket agency, Oxboffice.

The Venetian Gothic architecture of the Town Hall dominates the skyline: the building was erected (at a cost of £8,000) to a design Mr. E.W. Godwin in 1864, and opened to the public on July 11th, 1866.

This year's music season of 'Biddulph Up In Arms' at The Biddulph Arms concludes with Wednesday performances by Chris While and Julie Matthews on November 14th, State of the Union (Boo Hewerdine and Brooks Williams) on November 21st and Dave Pegg and Anthony John Clarke (December 5th).

BOO Hewerdine and Brooks Williams (AKA State of the Union) are performing in Biddulph on Wednesday, November 21st.

Alternatively, you can email biddulphupinarms@hotmail.com or Eric at mysterycox@ntlworld.com

For all tickets and enquiries, telephone Eric Cox on (01782) 514896 or Craig Pickering on (01782) 523277 or visit the website: www. biddulphupinarms.com

Unit 4, Hancock Road, Congleton CW12 2AN

* WE NOW HAVE THE FACILITY FOR FIRST CLASS ACCIDENT, INSURANCE & BODY REPAIR WORK *

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01260 280 207

Macclesfield Road, Congleton, Cheshire. CW12 2NH www.theploughinnateaton.co.uk

Sales Team 01782 204 392

sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

12 |

November/December 2012

Age UK North Staffordshire celebrates New Initiatives & Volunteer Achievements THE charity's recent AGM proudly celebrated its volunteers' achievements, with eight receiving long service awards (5-15 years).

Two staff members were amongst the ten more receiving Open College Network accreditation (Level 1), after completing various, one-day Health Awareness courses.

Charity Chief Executive, Peter Bullock, said: "By sharing their learning, our 24 newly-trained Health Information Mentors have already encouraged over 700 older people in small lifestyle-changes towards maximising their health and well-being."

Funded by Coalfields Regeneration Trust, this Ageing Well + age-group through befriending, well-being, leisure/social activities, faith-based residential or day-care settings.

With course-places still available to April, 2013, tutor, Jeanette Rogers, welcomes enquiries from those keen to make a real difference to older people's lives within their community (Details available on 01782 200739).

THE WILBRAHAM ARMS

Hamilton IS Lionel!!

HE was such a hit for Valentine's Day 2012 that Roy and Sharon Potter have invited Hamilton Browne back to their acclaimed Cheshire venue to celebrate New Year's Eve! The Wilbraham Arms at Alsager is renowned for its regular 'Nights with the Stars' evenings, and a spectacular night's performance by the man known as 'The UK's

The AGM also celebrated the start-up of a lively Over 60's Men's Group in Biddulph, meeting weekly at the Fire Station for socials and themed discussions (e.g. gardening, photography, health etc.).

The kettle's always on - a warm welcome waits! (Details from Pam on 01782 511726).

The charity has launched a Newcastle Day Care Service for local older people with physical disabilities/dementia.

Undoubedtly one of the most popular tribute acts around today, Hamilton's uncanny resemblance to ultra-resilient 'Legend of Motown', Lionel Richie, is "secondto-none".

He has had the pleasure of performing his 'tribute act' in many, leading theatres, as well as such prestigious hotel-chains as Hilton, De Vere and Renaissance. Prior to embarking on his tribute show, he was travelling the world with a myriad of icons of Soul, including The Four Tops, Percy Sledge, The Detroit Emeralds and Odyssey, performing his hugely-successful, not-to-be-missed 'Sounds of Soul' show.

Hamilton Browne will be performing many of Lionel Richie's fabled hits, such as 'All Night Long', 'Easy', 'Hello', 'Love Will Find A Way' and, of course, 'Dancing On The Ceiling'.

With refreshments included and transport available, stimulating activity sessions take place weekly. Some limited places remain available (Details: 01782 286209).

ROY Manhattan (AKA landlord Roy Potter, above) and Jonathan Kent will be entertaining again on Christmas Eve.

STAFF and volunteers receiving their OCN certificates, with Chief Executive, Peter Bullock (far left) and Course Tutor, Jeanette Rogers (far right).

Number One Tribute to Lionel Richie' will welcome in 2013.

Tickets for New Year's Eve on December 31st are priced at £38.50 (including one of the venue's outstanding New Year's

The

Black Horse Festive Lunch Menu Prior Booking Only

Starters Homemade Soup Prawn Cocktail Garlic or Garlic Cheese Bread Main Course Roast Turkey Roast Beef Broccoli & Cauliflower Gratin Stuffed Mushrooms Served with Roast Potatoes, Seasonal Veg Chipolata & Bacon Roll Dessert Sweet Board Christmas Pudding Cheese & Crackers Mince Pies, Coffee

26th Nov - 20th Dec 12-2pm (Mon to Sat Evening Available) (for 8 or more, call for details)

2 course £8.25 • 3 courses £10.75 4 courses £12.75

SUTTON STREET CHESTERTON 01782 561313

Sales Team 01782 204 392

sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

November/December 2012

Eve hot carvery buffets and a choice of desserts).

Stroganoff (with fluffy rice & dressed mixed leaves).

TICKETS FOR THIS EVENING ARE GOING FAST, SO BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT!

After that, you can plump for a trio of desserts (Baileys & Raspberry Roulade, Chocolate Brownies with Crême Fraiche and Traditional Christmas Pudding, with Brandy Sauce) or Cheese & Biscuits.

Prior to that, Christmas Eve sees the duo of Jonathan Kent and Roy Manhattan (AKA pub landlord, Roy Potter) presenting - once again (and by popular demand) - their Christmas show, featuring a whole host of favourite festive songs and music, stretching over 60 years.

Tickets cost just £16.50 (including a twocourse, Christmas hot carvery buffet).

As ever, discerning diners can enjoy Roy Sharon's festive menus, offering superb culinary fare, home-cooked and served within a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The Lunchtime Christmas Fayre Menu (priced at £11.95 [2-course] and £14.95 (3-course], including complimentary coffee & mince pie) offers five starters (Soup of the Day, Creamy Garlic Mushrooms, Smoked Haddock Fishcake, a Trio of Melons & Chicken Liver Pâté), followed by a quintet of main courses.

Readers can choose from Traditional Roast Turkey (with 'all the trimmings'), Fresh Salmon Fillet (oven-roasted with a white wine & dill sauce), Country Chicken Bake (stuffed with pâté in creamy pepper sauce), HomeMade Steak, Mushroom & Ale Pie (topped with a short-crust pastry lid) and Mushroom

| 13

The Evening Christmas Fayre menu (2 courses for £16.95 & 3 courses for £20.95) features a quartet of starters (Soup of the Evening, Baked Field Mushroom, Tempura King Prawns & Chicken, Parma Ham & Sage Roulade).

Afterwards, there's a choice of five main courses: Traditional Roast Turkey, Fillet of Sea Bream (served with champagne, chervil & citrus sauce), Pork Dijonnaise (with a light sweet mustard & brandy sauce), Tenderloin of Prime Cut Beef (served on 'bubble-&-squeak', with roasted vegetables) and Vegetarian Gateau (griddled aubergine, red pepper, basil & mozarella, with vine tomatoes & couscous salad), followed by three desserts (Mars Bar Cheesecake, with Mango Coullis; Tiramisu, topped with Italian Chocolate Shavings; and Traditional Christmas Pudding, with Brandy Sauce) or the Cheeseboard.

Also offering tremendous value-for-money - at £17.95 (adults), £10.95 (children [5-12]) & £7.95 (5 & under) - the Boxing Day Menu features four starters (Leek & Potato Soup, Deep-Fried Brie & Bacon, Prawn Cocktail and Bacon & Cheese Potato Shells).

Bar open ALL Day, Every Day Traditional and Speciality Fayre served Monday-Friday: Midday - 2.30pm & 6.30pm - 9.00pm Saturday: Midday - 9.00pm / Sunday: Midday - 8.00pm Traditional Sunday Carvery Midday - 3.00pm

Senior Citizens Lunchtime Special

every wednesday lunchtime we serve a special menu for the senior citizens of the community, two courses are £6.50 and three £7.95; also an excellent opportunity to meet new people.

Christmas Day

Bookings being taken for 12noon and 3.30pm

Boxing Day

Bookings being taken for 12noon and 3pm

Christmas Fayre

Served lunchtimes & evenings from 1st dec - 13th Jan

(excludes sundays, christmas and boxing day)

Senior Citizens Christmas Fayre Menu Available All Christmas Menus Require Prior Bookings

For main courses on St. Stephen's Day, diners can choose from the venue's Traditional Carvery (Roast Beef & Pork & Honey-Roasted Ham), Steak, Mushroom & Guinness Pie (topped with a short-crust pastry), Ocean Bake (trio of Cod, Smoked Haddock & Green-Lip Mussels in a creamy Champagne Velouté, topped wth crushed, buttered new potatoes), Chicken Casserole (oven-braised in Robinson's beer) & Roasted Vegetable Strudel (accompanied by a Rocket salad); then, there's a choice of Festive Dessert & Complimentary Coffee & Mints to complete the festive repast!

The Wilbraham Arms Beautiful Surroundings Fantastic Food Great Entertainment Open: MON - SAT Lunch and Evenings SUN all Day Sandbach Road North, Alsager, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire. ST72AX

Tel: 01270 877970 www.thewilbrahamarms.co.uk

Tel: 01782 782272 Sales Team 01782 204 392

sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

14 |

November/December 2012

Family & friends kickstart Ricky's title ambitions AS this year's Pre-1965 British Classic Bike Motocross Champion, no one can doubt that Ricky Pedder has, indeed, done it his way.

However, he stresses that he has earned this national accolade, boosted immensely by the ultra-enthusiastic help and support of his whole family and many friends!

Roy Howell Commercials, in Cheadle, and is also a retained fireman.

Like Chris, he was very much influenced and motivated by his father, Brian Pedder, in pursuing motocross as an allconsuming passion.

While Brian no longer road-races, he accompanies Ricky on every weekend meeting, and spends long hours in his garden-shed, ensuring that his son's

fed during the weekends and that Ricky is fully 'geared up', has been an enthusiastic follower of motocross since the age of 16, and was herself a ladies' champion 'banger'-racer.

Ricky (who told us that he expected to come second, rather than first, in this year's championship) will be presented with his trophy during an awards ceremony in Gloucester on Saturday, December 1st.

Cheadle-based Ricky, 26, began his dream of pursuing motocross success at the age of 15, but six years' service in the Parachute Regiment (including two tours of Afghanistan and one of Northern Ireland) delayed its realisation.

"As soon as I came out of the Army in 2009, I bought a classic BSA and took part in a few weekend meetings in my first year of competition," said Ricky.

"After that, I rode on a friend's Triumph Twin 650, before buying my own, and having a good season, coming 4th in the British Championships that year."

Since then, Ricky's reputation has grown remarkably, with the result that, on Sunday, August 12th, triumphed in the final rounds of 2012's Pre-1965 bike championship series at Berrynarbor, on the North Devon coast.

Amazingly, on the same day at the same, Devonian course, his lifelong friend, Chris Chell, took the Pre-1972 championship.

"Chris and grew up together and we live just twelve houses away," he explained. "What are the odds against that happening in a nationwide sporting event?!

"Because these are 'classic' bike events, they attract people of all ages, from young lads to older men, and 70-year-olds race in them.

"It's a very demanding, time-consuming sport; I spend the whole of the weekend away, racing, and, spend all the week before the meeting preparing for the event and fixing my bike," added Ricky, who works at Sales Team 01782 204 392

HIS cups runneth over! Ricky Pedder is set to add to his already-impressive collection of trophies on Saturday, December 1st, when he will be presented with his 2012 Championship award during a ceremony in Gloucester. Photos: Sam Dawson Photography, Tel: 01538 722284.

motorcycle is fully 'tuned' for rigorous competition.

"I couldn't have achieved the championship title without dad's constant help and advice," commented Ricky.

"Because the bikes are classics, you simply can't buy parts and accessories, so you have to make them yourself!"

"I'd like to thank all my family and friends from Cheadle for their great support," he said, adding: "Naturally, I'm always looking for sponsors."

READ MORE ABOUT LOCAL MOTOCROSS CHAMPION, RICKY PEDDER, IN OUR NEXT ISSUE!

Each motocross season (running from Easter to Autumn), Ricky and Brian spend numerous weekends travelling to all parts of England, Wales and Scotland in a "clapped-out van".

Ricky would like to thank all the following for their sponsorship and support:-

But they are not alone in their wanderings, as they are joined by Ricky's mother, Janet Stanway (who runs communityoriented Abbey Stores at Abbey Hulton, in Stoke-on-Trent [featured in our July/ August issue]); his girlfriend of seven years, Ellie; his stepmother, Debbie; three sisters, Brydi, Lindsay and Madison; and (last but not least) nephew, Taylor James!

RAKEWAY ENGINEERING

Janet, who ensures that everyone is well-

M. BAGNALL REFRACTORS ROY HOWELL COMMERCIALS FINTECH WHIELDON TYRES JOHN SLATER

sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

November/December 2012

| 15

BLACKPOOL • BLACKPOOL • BLACKPOOL

Can Little Voice reach stardom?

In this heart-warming tale, shy Little Voice what she wants? spends most of her time, hidden away Directed by the playwright, the comedy with her late father's record-collection, perfecting her astonishing impersonations. stars Beverley Callard ('Coronation Street'), Ray Quinn ('Dirty Dancing', 'X A SPARKLING night of music, divas and Factor', 'Dancing On Ice' winner), Joe Her extraordinary talent remains a secret romance is assured at Blackpool's Grand Theatre, thanks to Jim Cartwright's Olivier until she is overheard by local talent-scout, McGann ('Calendar Girls', 'Upper Hand', 'The Hanging Gale'), Dougie Brown Award-winning comedy, 'The Rise and Fall Ray Say. ('The Comedians') and introducing of Little Voice'!

Determined to hit the the sensational Jess Robinson in the big time, Ray sets eponymous role of Little Voice. about creating the show of the century, 'The Rise and Fall of Little Voice' runs from Monday, November 19th, to Saturday, with Little Voice as November 24th, at 8pm (Monday) and his star.

The Blenheim Mount Hotel is a 7.30pm (Tuesday-Saturday), with 2.30pm friendly, family owned seafront hotel When the big night matinee performances on Wednesday and arrives, Ray is with an easy going atmosphere and Saturday. convinced that this welcoming staff making your stay Tickets (with concessions and groupis his last chance with us happy ones for fame and fortune discounts available) can be purchased from The Grand's Box Office on (01253) SPECIAL MID WEEK BREAKS MON-FRI £80.00 P.P. B&B - but has anyone 290190. asked Little Voice

Blenheim Mount Hotel DOOR

TO

DOOR SERVICE AVAILABLE

Gynway B&B

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The Blenheim Mount offers

The Gynway is a small homely B&B where a warm welcome awaits you. Adjacent to the seafront,

• Best location in Blackpool on Central promenade • Groups welcome • Lift to all floors • Free Wifi • Ramp access to the rear of building • Ground floor rooms

the Gynway offers:

• Static secured car park (ltd) • Seafront patio area

• Range of Breakfasts • Colour TVs all rooms • Tea/coffee making facilities • Pet Friendly Environment

• All en-suite • Sea view rooms • Tea & coffee facilities • Tinsel & Turkey midweeks • Themed weekends

£20 p.p. Per Night FOR A GREAT WINTER BREAK

205 Dickson Road, Blackpool

01253 314747

207 Central Promenade, Blackpool FY1 5DL Tel: 01253 625867 www.blenheimmounthotel.co.uk

www.gynwayblackpool.com

Christmas Bookings 4 Day & 7 Day SPECIALS!!

For a Great Christmas Give us a CALL

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Christmas at The Brooklyn 3 Nights

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New Years Eve

• • • • • 22

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& EN-SUITE ROOMS (SINGLE/DOUBLE/FAMILY) - COLOUR T.V., TEA & COFFEE BAR/LOUNGE WITH T.V. AREA STANDARD

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EVENING MEAL AVAILABLE ON REQUEST SUN LOUNGE SPRINGFIELD ROAD, BLACKPOOL FY11QL TEL:

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email: enquiries@garfield-hotel.co.uk

£30 p.p.p.n. & Late Breakfast Sales Team 01782 204 392

sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

16 | November/December 2012

Take sensible precautions COLD weather heralds the beginning of the 'flu season, and can cause particular difficulties, if you have breathing- and/or circulationproblems.

To help readers stay well, it is important that you keep warm at home and outdoors, follow as healthy a lifestyle as you can and, yes, have that 'flu-jab.

Thinking ahead and getting ready for the cold

weather (which can start any day in November or December) means that you are more likely to keep warm and well this Winter.

Twelve things you can do to prepare:* Have your heating-system serviced and chimney swept. * If you have wood-burning, coal- or gasheaters: make sure you have adequate ventilation.

invitation to have a 'flu-jab'. * Order repeat-prescriptions in plenty of time (particularly, if bad weather is forecast). * Keep basic food-items in the cupboard or freezer, in case it is too cold to go shopping. * If you smoke, think about stopping.

* Have your electric-blanket serviced at least every three years. * Make sure that your smoke-alarm is working. * Ensure that you claim all the financial support you can to help with heating-bills (your local Age Concern can advise on this).

door & window locks/door chains

* Be sure that you have some warm shoes or boots with non-slip soles. * Maintain a mixture of salt and sand handy to put on steps or paths in icy weather. * Keep simple cold, 'flu' and sore-throat remedies in the house: your pharmacist can make suggestions and also advise on how to manage minor illnesses. * Make sure that you follow up your GP's NEWLY ESTABLISHED FIRM - NO GIMMICKS

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taylormade For all your Painting, Decorating & Plastering needs.

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Call 07963 326803

THOMPSONS PLASTERERS

Coving, Screeding, Redering, Pebbledashing, Flooring, Artexing Painting & Decorating Property Maintenance All Building Work Undertaken DISCOUNTS FOR SENIORS For a First Class Service

proud to support Poppy Appeal 2012

Tel: 07939 833001 or 01538 300022

J.T. Bennett & Son All aspects of plumbing and heating Long established family business Gas Safe Registered

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November/December 2012

TO ADVERTISE TEL: 01782 204392

Painting is a thing of the past with these plastic coated interior doors

Windows • Doors • Conservatories

25 Imogen Close, Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 3QY Tel: 01782 321036 Mobile: 07979 313692 Reg No 16210

| 17

T&S PLASTERING Specialists i n l ow maintenance coloured rendering and a ll p lastering, artexing & c oving Workmanship Guaranteed Free Estimates

01538 753190/01538 753968 Mob 07976 354989

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Full range of interior and exterior doors available

Ring 01782 623683 Ask for Jack

tel: 01782 523 026 mob: 07970 977 089 / 07779 241 767

Need a handyman

WHARF PLUMBING LTD The Wharf, Kent Green Scholar Green, Stoke-on-Trent. ST7 3JZ Tel: 01782 782108 Fax: 01782 785158

Congleton Plumbing & Heating Station Yard, Park Lane, Congleton. CW12 3DE Tel: 01260 279584 (Free parking next to Congleton Railway Station)

Try a low-cost service you can trust for people in Stoke-on-Trent who are older or disabled.

Revival Home Improvement Agency offers a low-cost handyman service and a range of free wellbeing services to older and disabled people in Stoke-on-Trent.

For £10 per hour plus the cost of materials, our fully-qualified handymen can help you with a variety of DIYtype jobs like putting up shelves or curtain rails, moving beds downstairs, fitting grab-rails and hand-rails, and fixing leaky taps.

We are owned by Staffordshire Housing Association and our services are funded by Stoke-on-Trent City Council, the NHS and others, so you know you are dealing with a company you can trust.

Call 01782 749202 or email revival@staffshousing.org.uk Revival Home Improvement Agency, 308 London Road, Stoke on Trent, ST4 5AB www.staffshousing.org.uk Sales Team 01782 204 392

Improving your homelife

sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

18 |

November/December 2012

Shelton 'Golden Oldies'

Silverdale exercise group

RECTORY Road Community Centre, Shelton, hosts a 'Golden Oldies' coffee morning for over-60 residents every Thursday, from 10am to 11.30am.

Activities at the Milton Street venue include helping out in the community garden and 'surfing the internet', with refreshments provided.

Further details are available by telephoning Iftikhar Ahmed on 07988600313 or emailing: iahmed72@hotmail..co.uk

A GENTLE, chair-based exercise group for the over-50s is held by Age UK North Staffordshire in Silverdale.

Admission for these sessions, which run from 10am to 11.30am every Monday at Cornerstones Community Centre, costs £1.75 (including refreshments).

If you would like further information, telephone Karen Cattell on (01782) 200739 or 286209.

A new name, but unique reputation flourishes

1955 Austin A30 and a Series 1 Bentley Continental.

TWELVE years since launching his own business, sole owner, Kevin Sale, has given it a (highly-apposite) new name!

Formerly known as Kev's Place, it is now called The Classics Workshop, mirroring Kevin's acclaimed specialisation in 'classic' and collectors' motorcars and motorcycles.

However, the Longton-based business's hard-earned reputation for UNIQUENESS continues unabated!

Last year saw him undertake an even greater task when he completed a comprehensive reconstruction of a 1946 Invicta Black Prince, one of just seventeen produced in over four years' trading by the legendary, British company.

These exclusive, highly-prized cars cost an incredible £3,000 (a huge amount in the aftermath of World War II, which would have bought a detached house, plus land!).

"To put its cost into perspective, you could have purchased the chassis of a RollsRoyce of that period for £1,600, plus £600£800 for the body," said Kevin.

He told Leisure Gazette that his intention to concentrate upon his long-term love for 'classic' vehicles, utilising his wideranging remit of skills and expertise in the application of paint-finishes, welding and repairs (scratches, dents, scuffs, burns, chips etc.).

"I can do more or less anything," explained Kevin, who founded his business, following thirty-two years spent in product-design and development-programmes with the massive Michelin factory in his native Stoke-on-Trent.

Naturally, his expertise is in constant demand for work on wedding cars.

Recently, he carried out total restorations of a 1959 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud (Series 1), a mid-1980s' Beaufort wedding car, a

"After sixty years of neglect, it was a major job, requiring, for example, a complete refurbishment of the leather interior, repairing all the cylinders and creating a new dashboard.

"I own a number of classic vehicles myself," added Kevin, who began racing them sixteen years ago.

One of these is a vintage, 1932 Morgan three-wheeler (maroon, with exposed, black engine and engine-valves), which he continues to race not only throughout Britain, but also Continental Europe (including France and Switzerland).

Located in the very heart of Longton at Unit 3, St. Martin's Lane, The Classics Workshop is open six days a week (from 8am LANE, LONGTON, STOKE-ON-TRENT ST3 1ER to 5pm, Monday-Friday, and between 9am and 12 noon, Saturday).

BODYSHOP

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Want Scrap Metal And Car Recycling?

Contact SANDBACH CAR & COMMERCIAL DISMANTLERS

• Best Prices For Your Scrap • Cars & Vans • MOT Failures • Insurance Write Offs • Machinery Removals • Factory Clearance • Free Skip Hire For Scrap Metal • Open 6 Days a Week • Free Estimates & Free Pick Up

Contact SANDBACH CAR & COMMERCIAL DISMANTLERS in SANDBACH for Professional Scrap Metal and Car Recycling Services

Moston Road Scrap Yard, Sandbach CW11 3HL

01270 763 256

sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

November/December 2012

| 19

Workshop/Showroom: Victoria Road, Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 2HS Tel/Fax: 01782 411106 Email: jbmmemorials@btconnect.com Showroom: 91 Haywood Street, Leek, Staffs ST13 5JH Tel/Fax: 01538 398493 Sales Team 01782 204 392

sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com

Dealing with Exotics & Prey Species RECENT media activity has suggested that many vets were not very good at this and that the average lifespan of a purchased exotic pet was less than a year.

Can I say that, to a large extent, this is, probably, true, but it is not the veterinary profession's fault, WRITES CLIVE CURRY. In relation to the volume of cat- and dog-traffic going through our waiting-rooms, exotica compose only 5-10% of the daily caseload, with the exception of rabbits. The practice has made huge strides forward in the quality of diagnostic and investigative workups available for small mammals, rabbits, avian species and reptiles. As always, the problem comprises the financial constraints and limitations placed upon by owners. The ideal, minimum database for an eximination of a prey species (eg, rabbit) would be two radiographs and a blood-profile, which, with treatment, is likely to cost £200, with no guarantee of a successful outcome. Many owners take the view that it's only a rabbit, while a small minority require the same quality of care they expect for their dog, cat or horse; this presents the vet with another problem.

Which client are you?

The thinking becomes, 'I took it to the vets and it died anyway and I had a bill, so I never go to the vets until I really have to or until something's nearly dead'.

(I used to see the same attitude in smaller farmers over their own animals).

The solution lies in routine preventative health care and screening of exotic pets with base line minimum database bloods, regular weightchecks and discussion about nutrition, from where most of the problems appear to originate. Bloods from individual species before they become ill give us that individual's normal, so that we have a yardstick to catch problems earlier on in the course of the disease. It always amazes me that people will spend £750 on an Amazon parrot, but wait until it gets really sick and expect someone to 'fix it' for a tenner!

Willow Veterinary Clinic The Willow Veterinary Clinic is a fully equipped, recently extended practice with all of the facilities and equipment needed to provide a very high level of care for dogs, cats and small pets.

Non corporate practice and extensive surgical facilites.

24-HOUR ON-SITE VETERINARY PROVISION For registered clients We offer 24-hour on-site care for registered clients.

This means that if your pet requires emergency treatment outside normal working hours, they will be seen at the practice, by our usual staff. Similarly, if your animal needs hospitalisation overnight, it will be cared for at the practice.

We now offer a collection and delivery service for your pets - contact the surgery for details SURGERY TIMES Monday-Friday 9.15-10.15 and 1.00-2.00 Open Surgery 5.00-7.30 Appointments only If you are unable to make these times, other appointments can be made by prior arrangement.

Saturday 9.00-12.00 Open Surgery also available at tunstall Sunday: Emergencies only 01782 826738 www.willowveterinaryclinic.co.uk

385 Leek Road, Endon 01782 503166 (next to the Black Horse pub)

C.D. Curry BVSc GPCert(Ophthal) MRCVS V. Poole MA VetMB GPCert(EM&S) MRCVS

Seniors Today Magazine Ltd, Second Floor, Lombard House, 3 Bucknall New Road, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent ST1 2BB. Tel:01782204392 email:sales.seniorstoday@googlemail.com www.seniorstoday.co.uk