Retirement today nov:dec 2014

today

R E T I R E M E N T

www.retirement-today.co.uk

The magazine for pre and post retirement

FINANCE•LIFESTYLE•TRAVEL•CULTURE•COMPETITIONS•HEALTH•RECIPES

Issue 78 Nov/Dec £2.90

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CONTENTS

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4 Accepting the realities of change, uncertainty and complexity We all live in a world where change is constantly taking place.

Read how your attitude to change can affect your way of life.

WELCOME TO RETIREMENT TODAY MAGAZINE

6 Subscription Subscribe and have Retirement Today delivered direct to your door.

7 Volunteering Bethany Bishop writes about the tireless work of volunteers which has a major impact on the less fortunate of people.

10 Comfort - Recipes to Warm the Heart and Feed the Soul Hearty, wholesome and warming, quick and easy recipes.

13 Footloose in Austrian Tyrol

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Following our Footloose series, Debra Rixon visits the beautiful Austrian Tyrol.

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16 Out and About Read about events taking place nationally.

18 Kitchenalia

Top right image from Comfort

by Caroline Caldicott (Frances Lincoln) Bottom left image from Kitchenalia

by Vinny Lee (Jacqui Small)

Ways of displaying your collectables in the kitchen, whether it’s for items with regular use, decorative display purposes only, or a mix of both.

21 Routine Giveth and Routine Taketh Away Read about how community is so important for older people.

24 Quit Smoking

Quit smoking and reduce your likelihood of developing most smoke-related diseases.

27 Take a look at the Park Home Lifestyle If you’re at the stage where you’re starting to consider your options for retirement, park homes offer some fantastic options well worth considering.

31 Experience Days • Published by: Amra Media Solutions Ltd The Old Lavender Mill 46a Brook Street Aston Clinton Buckinghamshire HP22 5ES • Tel: 01296 632700 • Fax: 01296 632720 • Email: info@amramedia.co.uk • www.retirement-today.co.uk • Designed by: Tom Evans Design All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher.

The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Although every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information and the advertisements contained within the magazine, the publishers cannot accept any liability.

Retirement Today would be pleased to receive your articles and photographs for possible publication. Although all reasonable care will be taken the magazine can assume no responsibility and contributors are advised to retain a copy.

Volunteering, a New Year’s resolution idea;Visit Colne Valley & Halstead Railway.

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31 Competitions A Chance to win theatre tickets and DVD.

WIN

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32 Animal Adoption This year let’s do our utmost to give the high street a miss and look at animal adoption as an alternative Christmas present.

35 Update 9 in 10 think more should be done to help older people claim their benefits; Are UK banks unfair to Expats?; Holidaying Like It’s 1999 Because We Don’t Understand Cheaper Roaming Charges, says French Entrée; As temperatures plummet older people forced to choose to ‘eat or heat’.

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36 Charity begins at Christmas Charities work hard all year providing help and support, read about some of the ways you can help this Christmas.

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W

hatever attitude we take, there are three facts of life that we would be wise to accept. First, change happens whether we like it or not. Second, we often face uncertainty in life, partly because we cannot predict the changes that will inevitably happen in life. Third, the world we live in is complex and as changes continue to occur it is becoming more complex.

It is a truism that we live in a world where change constantly occurs.

Even as you read these words you are in a process of change and flux. Also, other people constantly change and so do your relationships. When you make demands that you, other people and the world you live in must remain the same and that change must not occur, you are failing to accept reality. Holding such a non-accepting belief will not alter one iota the fact that change will occur. Change occurs whether or not you demand that things must stay the same. Isn’t it more mentally healthy to accept this without disturbing yourself about it? Do you remember the story of King Canute? He thought that he was all-powerful and thus he stood in front of the advancing tide and commanded it to go back.What happened to King Canute? He got his feet wet. Why? Because the tide came in whether or not King Canute made demands on it to go back!

Accepting uncertainty You may refuse to accept reality and thereby make yourself mentally unhealthy when you demand that you must have certainty in your life and conclude that it would be awful if such certainty failed to exist. However, if there is any certainty in this world, it is that there is no certainty.Why? Because things change, often in ways that you cannot predict. Thus, to demand that you must have certainty in your life does not in any way bring about such certainty.

Indeed, when you demand certainty and add horror to the mix, you still face uncertainty, but you do so with emotional disturbance.

Isn’t it more mentally healthy to accept that uncertainty is the human condition and not to disturb yourself about it, even though you might healthily prefer certainty to exist? Of course,it is.So give up your demand that certainty must exist, accept (but do not like) uncertainty and keep horror out of this unfortunate state of affairs.

Accepting complexity You may have a preference for life events being clearcut, which is fine as long as you do not transform your preference into a demand.

For, if you do make such a transformation, you will put events into two categories, either black or white.

Unfortunately, the world and life conditions are far less clearcut than this.You just cannot fit the complex nature of life experiences into two discrete categories. If you try to do this you may end up like the guests of Procrustes.

Procrustes owned the equivalent of a modern-day hotel and insisted that his guests had a comfortable night’s sleep. He believed that they had to fit his bed exactly, otherwise he was sure they would not be comfortable. So what did Procrustes do? He cut off the legs of those who were too tall for his bed and stretched the bodies of those who were too short. When you demand that things must be unambiguous and clear-cut, you think and act as Procrustes did.

Unfortunately, the one who suffers is you. The world does not become clear-cut just because you demand it be so. In what was perhaps a fitting end to his nefarious activities, Procrustes fell victim to his own black and white way of viewing the world. Hearing of Procrustes’ ‘hospitality’, Theseus (later famous for killing the Minotaur) anticipated his host’s move and made Procrustes lie in one of his own beds , first decapitating him so that he would fit perfectly! While you will not come to such a gruesome end if you demand that life be clear-cut you will, in all probability, lose your head emotionally!

Another non-accepting attitude you may hold that leads to emotional disturbance and that relates to your failure to accept the complexity of life is the demand to be right. If you hold such a belief, you may think that there is a right way of doing something, a correct attitude to hold or a proper way of looking at things, and that other people have to share your view. This attitude will frequently get you into enormous difficulty with other people, as Edward de Bono showed in his accurately titled book I am Right, You are Wrong,(Viking, 1990).This is because you find it intolerable when other people disagree with you and you cannot accept that there may be different and equally valid opinions about an issue.

This dogmatic attitude is at the root of fanaticism and terrorism.

In reality, life cannot be divided up into such clearcut, right-wrong categories. There are different ways of looking at the same issue. There are different and equally legitimate views that people take towards the same event. In sort, pluralism exists in the universe and it is clear that in the vast majority of the fields of human endeavour universally accepted views do not exist. To accept the reality of pluralism you need to acknowledge that you have a particular view which you consider to be right, but that there are different views which other people are entitled to hold. If only fanatics and terrorists could accept this reality, think how much safer the world would be n

of change, uncertainty and complexity

An extract from Ten Steps to Positive Living by Dr Windy Dryden, published by Sheldon Press.

ISBN 978-1-84709-270-0 RETIREMENT

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Accepting the realities of change, uncertainty and complexity

Accepting change

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THE BHF

NEEDS YOU Joining our fight as a volunteer is a great way to meet new people and be part of the team.

There are opportunities to suit everyone, whether it’s helping out in a shop, with fundraising or at one of our events.

Your time will support the British Heart Foundation’s lifesaving work.

Visit bhf.org.uk/volunteer, pop into your local shop or call 0300 456 8353 to find out more.

Steve and Gina BHF volunteers ©British Heart Foundation 2014, a registered charity in England & Wales (225971) and Scotland (SC039426)

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BHF_Retirement_Today_185x135_v2.indd 1 RETIREMENT today

17/10/2014 10:20

VOLUNTEERING to make a Change

by Bethany Bishop

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Be it articles in local papers, putting posters in communal places like libraries, or delivering presentations.

Fundraisers also organise events, such as coffee mornings, gala balls, golf days and pub quizzes, as well as collections outside supermarkets and other local places. Charities that acknowledge that people often have an affinity or skill set for a more specific role, also offer positions such as treasurers, office administrators, training and development and IT support.

There are even more specialised volunteer roles.

SSAFA need volunteers to mentor those transitioning out of the Forces due to medical discharge. Already, a SSAFA volunteer accompanies a child with additional needs and disabilities on short breaks, while others provide after-adoption support, and still others visit ex-Forces personnel who are now serving time in prison.

For many charities, their volunteering network provides the heart that beats in every community.

Volunteers keep the pulse of the amazing work charities like the British Heart Foundation (BHF) undertake strong and regular.

Founded in 1961, BHF are the biggest funder of heart research in the UK. Their vision is one of a future

where people do not die prematurely of heart disease, and via pioneering research and vital discoveries, huge steps have already been made to achieve it.

The BHF confirms that the landscape of heart disease is indeed changing. More people are surviving heart attacks and cardiac arrests than ever before, which means more people are today living with heart disease, and need their help.

Founded in 1961, BHF are the biggest funder of heart research in the UK. Their vision is one of a future where people do not die prematurely of heart disease, and via pioneering research and vital discoveries, huge steps have already been made to achieve it.

Predominantly in need of financial support to fund research, volunteers work to achieve this and also raise the BHF’s profile. They assist in continuing to increase the crucial funds that help beat heart disease, sustain thriving high street stores and also increase the organisation’s flexibility to work on developing more diverse projects.

The charity offers many ways for people to get involved, on a regular or more casual basis.

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Volunteering to make a Change

he word volunteering summons up two main definitions: offering oneself freely, or to perform a service for an organisation without payment. Both are totally valid, but somehow fail to capture the humanity woven into the act.

Something I can only hope to try and capture. It’s one of those human feats we have to be really proud about.

We’re talking about the volunteering that gives people fuller lives; the volunteering that empowers, comforts and finds answers.

The work of countless charitable organisations often benefits daily from people who choose to support them, and many simply couldn’t function otherwise.

One of these is SSAFA, an organisation that provides lifelong support for our Armed Forces and their families.

SSAFA have 7,500 volunteers who deliver face-to-face practical, emotional and financial support to 45,000 people every year.

Volunteers work in their local community to help veterans, serving personnel and their families with their essential needs such as household items, employment, relationships and understanding benefit entitlement.

Their volunteers make life that little bit easier.

The UK’s oldest Armed Forces Charity, SSAFA has been there for servicemen, women and their families through two World Wars, and every subsequent conflict involving Britain.

Since its earliest beginnings in 1885, initiated by a passionate vision of Major James Gildea, the organisation has helped millions.

SSAFA help affected individuals and families however and wherever needed, but the bread and butter of voluntary work is casework.

A caseworker visits a client in his/ her home, assesses their needs and works out a way to deliver the required support. This might be getting funds from other organisations, ensuring the client is receiving all their entitled benefits or just being available for a friendly chat.

The organisation also benefits from the publicity many volunteers give.

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ARE YOU SPENDING YOUR TIME WISELY? We’re looking for people to volunteer a little of their time to help the Armed Forces family.

There are many ways that you can support the Forces and veteran community living near you. If you want to help, we’d love to hear from you.

Text MY TIME and your name to 82055 Or visit ssafa.org.uk/time Registered Charity No. 210760 and SC038056. Est. 1885.

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BHF have 700 charity shops across the UK, and their team of dedicated volunteers help run all of them.

This is a vital source of their funds, and they couldn’t keep them open if it wasn’t for the kind people who help them.

Steve Speck, who volunteers in the Rugby Furniture and Electrical Store, is one of them.

“I volunteer in the Rugby Furniture and Electrical Store helping with customer service, stock generation and Gift Aid sign ups.”

Says Steve.

“I decided to start volunteering with the BHF after retiring from my career as a meteorologist as I wanted to be able to do something worthwhile with my spare time, and keep my mind active. I enjoyed my role so much that it soon inspired my wife Gina to start volunteering also!

“Both Gina and I lost our parents to heart attacks, so the British Heart Foundation is a cause very close to us.

Working at the shop is fantastic. It’s such a great team and very rewarding to be able to put something back after retiring.

Fundraising is another great way to support any charity, and the BHF help to set up groups of volunteers who can fundraise and organise their own events as a team. There are also lots of unique ideas about how to set up fundraising activities, as well as campaigns to jump on board with.

Steve and Gina Speck - Volunteers BHF

Simply attending events can also go a long way. There are more than 50 bike rides, hikes, swims and runs all over the UK. It’s ok, if you’re not quite managing to warm to the idea of whipping out your sweatbands, you can still support these events from the side-lines.

Volunteering has a huge impact on improving the lives and futures of so many across the UK. But a wonderful irony is that participating actually has the potential to improve the lives and futures of volunteers themselves.

BHF research also recently showed that meeting people is one of the key reasons for giving time to charity for those reaching, or already at retirement age. In fact it’s generally well documented that older people have an increased vulnerability to social isolation or loneliness due to loss of friends and family, mobility or income. In a study of 6,500 UK men and women aged over 52 it was found that being isolated from family and friends was linked with a 26% higher death risk over seven years.

With this in mind, the BHF are actively encouraging retired or retiring people to join them at the heart of their own community, in their fight against cardiovascular disease.

Research from Community Service Volunteers (CSV) has found older people who volunteer are happier, feel less isolated and can have a better quality of life.

But it’s not just people of retirement age who gain social and emotional benefits. Diane Jones, a volunteer for SSAFA, lends serving families a helping hand from dayto-day at RAF Wittering, and enjoys every second.

“Volunteering for SSAFA is really special,” says Diane.

“I can use my time and expertise to make a real difference to people in my community. One day I might do gardening, another day it might be dog walking or helping people get to a doctor appointment. I enjoy it all!”

Not to mention, it can open doors as well as eyes. People can gain important training and skills by taking up a role.

SSAFA volunteers are the lifeblood of the organisation. They therefore make sure they are fully trained and supported in whatever role they undertake.

As well as offering support and meeting new people, volunteering in a BHF shop can work towards an NVQ in retail.

There’s a big preoccupation with how we spend our time.

Quite rightly really, as arguably our time is the most precious thing we have.

Unfortunately, many of us simply don’t have enough of it, so lots of us wait until we do.

Here we have the perfect way to make up for what we might feel is, perhaps not misspent time, but time we’d have invested elsewhere if we could. It’s a purpose that is doubled in personal reward, something monetary reward can tend to lack.

The precedent behind volunteering stems from one of the most dazzling elements of human nature: to selflessly help others.

The need for volunteering has also created enormous scope for people to help, and in ways they love. It’s created room for the best facets of humanity to shine - to be vibrant, innovative, ambitious and even a little silly occasionally.

Charities like SSAFA and the BHF are just two fantastic examples of organisations that need this help. It couldn’t be easier to join their organisation, or ones like them. Whether you have a special skill set, want to train for one, or simply just want to make friends in your community.

It might be unpaid support, but every contribution is priceless, and every volunteer is valued.

To find out about opportunities and more, visit: www.bhf.org.uk www.ssafa.org.uk RETIREMENT

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Volunteering to make a Change

Diane Jones VolunteerSSAFA

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Comfort Recipes to warm the heart TOAD IN THE HOLE Yorkshire pudding and plump sausages smothered in onion gravy.

Need I say more?

Serves 6 175g/6oz plain flour 3 medium free-range eggs 425ml/¾ pint skimmed milk 1 heaped dessertspoon grainy mustard 8 slices of streaky bacon 8 good quality fat sausages 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt and black pepper Preheat the oven to 220˚C/425˚F/Gas mark 7.

COMFORT Recipes to Warm the Heart and Feed the Soul

First prepare the batter, sift the flour into a bowl and make a well in the centre.

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clotted cream rice pudding

Beat the eggs with the milk and mustard until light and fluffy. Gradually pour the mixture into the well, stirring constantly until a smooth batter forms.

Season the batter to taste.

Forget school dinners, rich unctuous clotted cream makes this humble pudding shine. Top with an obligatory dollop of homemade jam as a homage to school days past.

Cut the rind from the bacon, stretch a little and wrap one slice around each sausage. Place the sausages in a roasting tin and drizzle with the olive oil, cook in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, turning the sausages after 5 minutes.

If you are already using the oven for the main course, slip a rice pudding in the bottom of the oven and leave it to bubble away.

Give the batter a quick stir, evenly space the sausages in the roasting tin and pour the batter around them (it is important that the tin is really hot at this stage to create the best puffy Yorkshire pudding).

1 litre/1¾ pint Jersey or whole milk

Return the tin to the oven and cook for a further 30 minutes, until the Yorkshire pudding is brown on top and puffed up. Cut into portions and serve with onion gravy.

110g/4oz short grain pudding rice

Butter 50g/2oz golden caster sugar 1 vanilla pod slit lengthwise 6 generous tablespoons clotted cream Freshly grated nutmeg Jam to serve Preheat the oven to 150˚C/300˚F/Gas mark 2, or alternatively, if you are already using the oven at a higher temperature, place the pudding in the bottom of the oven and bake for ½ hour less cooking time, the pudding is ready when a golden brown skin has formed and it has a slight wobble when given a gentle shake.

Grease a medium sized ovenproof dish with butter.

Pour the milk into a saucepan, add the caster sugar and the seeds scraped from the inside of the slit vanilla pod and stir together over a low heat until the sugar has dissolved.

Add the rice and bring to the boil, reduce the heat and simmer for a few minutes until the rice starts to swell. Stir in the clotted cream and when the cream has completely melted, pour the mixture into the prepared ovenproof dish. Dot the top of the pudding with a little extra butter and grate a generous amount of nutmeg on top.

Cook the pudding in the preheated oven for 1½ hour, until the top is golden brown and the rice is soft.

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eeling a bit under the weather, carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, tired and hungry after a hectic day or rather delicate after a late night? Help is on hand.

Carolyn Caldicott’s book ‘Comfort’ is packed full of hale and hearty, wholesome and warming, quick and easy recipes, to pick you up, dust you down and put a smile on your face and a spring in your step.

Here are a few of our favourites….

Recipes from Comfort by Carolyn Caldicott, published

by Frances Lincoln. £9.99 ISBN 978-0-7112-3491-8

and feed the soul STEAMED SYRUP AND HONEY PUDDING Steamed syrup pudding is simply the last word in comforting puds – light fluffy sponge infused with warm syrup, best served smothered with homemade custard.

2 tablespoons golden syrup mixed with 2 tablespoon runny honey, plus extra to serve 175g/6oz soft butter, cubed (plus extra to grease the basin) 150g/5oz golden caster sugar 2 large free-range eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 175g/6oz self raising flour You will also need tinfoil, greaseproof paper and string.

Tucking into a steaming bowl of hot soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Cut a piece of tinfoil and greaseproof paper large enough to cover your pudding dish.

Generously grease a medium sized ovenproof pudding basin with butter and spoon the syrup honey mixture in the bottom.

And best of all you can store it in portions in the freezer for when you need it most.

Cream the butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one by one and stir in the vanilla essence. Fold in the flour and spoon the mixture into the basin.

Makes 6 portions

Lay the tinfoil on top of the greaseproof paper and make a pleat down the middle,

1 medium butternut squash, peeled, deseeded and diced 1 medium potato, peeled and diced 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1.2 litre/2 pints good vegetable stock Salt and black pepper 4 tablespoons sunflower oil medium onion, roughly chopped 2 cloves garlic, crushed 1 thumb sized piece of ginger root peeled and grated Cheesy crouton topping (per person)

cover the pudding and secure with a length of string. Use an extra piece of string to make a handle.

Place the pudding in a saucepan and pour enough boiling water into the pan to reach approximately 7.5cm/3 inches up the side of the basin. Cover the pan and simmer for 1 hour 50 minutes, topping up with water if necessary.

Warm 1 tablespoon of golden syrup with 1 tablespoon honey. Run a palate knife around the edge of the pudding to help loosen it from the bowl, and turn out onto a plate. Pour the warm syrup over the pudding and serve whilst piping hot.

1 thickish slice day old baguette Butter Grated Gruyere cheese Heat the sunflower oil in a large saucepan, add the onion, garlic and ginger and fry until soft.

Add the butternut squash and potato, cover the pan and sweat the vegetables together until they start to soften (stir the pan every once in a while to prevent the vegetables sticking).

Stir in the cinnamon and add the stock. Bring the soup to the boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pan and gently simmer until the vegetables are soft.

Blend the soup until smooth and season to taste.

Butter both sides of the sliced baguette, place in a hot pan and fry until golden and crunchy. Flip the baguette and top with the grated Gruyere cheese, cook for a further few minutes until the cheese has melted.

Ladle the soup into a deep bowl and carefully float the crouton on top.

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COMFORT Recipes to Warm the Heart and Feed the Soul

cinnamon spiced butternut squash soup with cheesy crouton topping

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NEW Snowdon 2015 quarter:Snowdon quarter.qxd 03/09/2014 16:52 Page 1

Trek To The summiT of snowdon in aid of ProsTaTe CanCer on 13Th & 14Th June 2015.

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We need your help to find a cure for this terrible disease by taking part in the next Snowdon500 challenge over the weekend of 13th & 14th June 2015.

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Over 500 people will trek to the summit of the highest mountain in England & Wales over the weekend and we would love you to be one of them. Registration is just £35.00 and we ask you to raise £250 each.

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To register or find out more go to www.snowdon500.co.uk or call Paul on 07446 534436 for an information pack.

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If you would like more information about prostate cancer visit the Prostate Cancer Research Centre’s website:

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For a free copy of our booklet Treating Prostate Cancer – Questions & Answers call: 020 7848 7546 or email: info@prostate-cancer-research.org.uk

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Footloose in Austrian Tyrol

by Debra Rixon

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Australian author and broadcaster Nina Murdoch – Tyrolean June – and decided to compare our experiences with Nina’s as she travelled alone through the Tyrol.

Our first visit was to the top ski resort of Kitzbühel, which is a pretty nice place to visit in summer. We walked through the medieval town, with posh shops on cobbled streets to the sound of high performance engines revving and the smell of petrol – we had timed our visit to catch the finale of the Alpenrallye Classic Car event.

We strolled through the paddock, and admired some fabulous antiques as well as some automotive follies and watched the parade through the main street. This gave Dave an idea, and he hired a rental car (which was a long way from those classic vehicles) and we drove up through the Gerlos Pass to see the Krimml Falls, before making another stop at pretty Alpbach, high in the National Park. We came down to lake level and had an ice cream as we wandered along the lakeside walk and through the town at Zell am See. Back in the car, we took the high Alpine road with its dozens of hairpin bends, through the snow line to take in the magnificent view of the shrinking

Grossglockner Glacier. It was quite shocking to see from the old pictures just how much of the glacier is being lost each year. There is a hideous multi-storey car park there with restaurants and amusements, so The day was warm, and it something for was a pleasure to stand at everyone, and you can take the rail and keep an eye out the lift down to for marmots – I am reliably the edge of the informed that they love little glacier – well, ‘iced gem’ biscuits. it was the edge but you now have to walk further up to find it. The day was warm, and it was a pleasure to stand at the rail and keep an eye out for marmots – I am reliably informed that they love little ‘iced gem’ biscuits.

Mayrhofen was our next stop, but we took the local train for that. It is different walking around a ski resort with no snow, but the sweep of green alpine meadows is a delight to see, and in June, it is haymaking in the Tyrol.

A lot of the smaller fields are actually scythed and raked by hand. We felt we ought to get into the spirit of the thing, as it was a ski resort, and entered a schnapps shop where they sold the local brew. To give you an accurate report, we had to try more than one flavour of course, and the sales lady was very knowledgeable, although

s

he Austrian Tyrol is a perennial favourite holiday destination, so I was looking forward to the trip very much. Unfortunately we timed our visit with some of the worst floods Europe had been experiencing, and our train from Munich pulled into Kufstein, and refused to go any further. The line to Saltzburg was closed, and the road south apparently in a bad way. But lucky for us, Jenbach in the Inn valley was actually our destination of choice in the opposite direction! We were going to base ourselves there in order to take advantage of the efficient train service to get to the various places we wanted to go to. Do not run away with the idea that Jenbach is a tourist destination; sadly it is not, but it is the meeting point of three different gauge railways, so we plumped for it and dragged our cases up the hill to what looked like the only hotel in town. A very nice hotel, but if there were no coach parties coming through, you were on your own for your evening meal – in a town with limited choice at best. So after anxiously ascertaining whether it would be pizza – again – or a proper meal, we set out each day to ride those wonderful trains.

During our research, we came across a book written in 1935 by

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Footloose in Austria Tyrol

Tyrol mountains

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Footloose in Austria Tyrol

Debra on Achenseebahn

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WIN

I did rather lose the thread of her explanation after a while.

We set off down to the station in good time, however, because we were going to travel back to Jenbach on the famous narrow gauge Zillertal steam railway, our train pulled by a magnificent 100 year old locomotive. The restaurant car on the train is the glitzy Crystal Wagon, decorated with thousands of Swarovski crystals in imaginative patterns, so of course, we had to patronise that as well.

Lucky for us our station was the end of the line.

Jenbach is also home to the fabulous Achensee Bahn - with a fleet of four little rack and pinion locomotives this is the oldest cog railway in the world. We talked to the director about its fascinating history and how the line is run. Occupying a privileged position at the front of the train we enjoyed a superb ride up the steep slopes to reach the Achensee. Here a lake steamer comes to meet the train and we took a relaxing lake cruise.

We disembarked at Pertisau, one of the most scenic resorts in the Tyrol, and historically, the choice of many writers to take their vacations. After a literary detective tour of the village

We have 5 copies of Footloose in Austrian Tyrol on DVD to giveaway.

For a chance to win a copy send in your details quoting ref.FIAT to: Amra Media Solutions, 46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, Bucks, HP22 5ES. Closing date 10 December 2014 RETIREMENT

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(it was the fictional home of Elinor Brent Dyer’s The Chalet School), Dave and I took the cable-car to start a scenic mountain hike above the resort.

An Alpine farm was a welcome place to stop for refreshment and inspect the livestock below stairs before we descended through mountain forest back to the lake.

Back on the modern trains, we rode to Kufstein, to see its typical Alpine streets and hear its famous open air organ being played – it is claimed to be the largest in the world. Next stop down the line was Rattenburg, which does seem to be the proverbial town that time forgot. It has very little sunlight, so the colour wash of the houses is sombre, and you enter the town through an alley way into its pedestrianised medieval streets. Fascinating, but not a happy place and almost perfectly matches Nina Murdoch’s description from the thirties.

I was very smug about our next visit; just outside of Jenbach is a gothic castle and we were going to visit the Count who lived there. I was going to meet Christopher Plummer – well, not quite but Count GoessEnzenburg would have given him a run for his money for the part. The castle isn’t bad either, quite a little gem on the mountainside of the valley, visible from the train.

Stubaital valley

The Tyrol’s number one tourist attraction was next, at Wattens.

Swarovski’s Crystal World, with the world’s supply of bling in its spectacular giftshop. It is an odd concept to my mind, I have to admit, the rooms are based on the body of a fictional giant, with displays that are thought provoking at best, and studded with crystals. Art and music come together here – with crystals. I wasn’t the only one baffled, but it is obviously very popular.

Innsbruck was our final destination, and after touring the town and being suitably impressed by the Imperial Tomb, we walked up to the base of the Olympic ski jump, and took the lift right up to the top, for a panoramic view of the city and mountains. Back in the town, we rode a space-age funicular up the other side of the valley, to see what it looked like from that angle. Lastly, we took a little red city tram with seriously comedy value creaks and groans, up to the top of the Stubai valley, just so we could walk down again through lovely flower strewn meadows, with spectacular views spread out below. Our evening was spent watching one of Austria’s most renowned folk troupes perform, and we were not disappointed – there was plenty of yodelling and lederhosen and thigh slapping to satisfy us all n Debra and David flew to Munich for their trip, and took the train to Jenbach. They based themselves in Jenbach, which is more commercial than tourist, but with excellent road and rail connections in the Inn valley.

They bought a seven-day train passes, which worked well with a hire car, and also an Innsbruck city card with entry into most of the attractions in the town.

Details of their walks can be found on the Austrian Tyrol page of their website.

After David took early retirement from the BBC, they have focussed on their own productions, and for over ten years have been renowned for their walking films in Europe. For information on all the Footloose films, take a look at www.footloose.tv or watch previews of the walks on Youtube.

,

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Holiday Home Ownership

CHOICE OF 23 AMAZING LOCATIONS Park Holidays UK own and operate the largest park group in the south of England, with 23 parks in some of the most enviable locations.

It is so important to find a park that is right for you today and in the future.

With Park Holidays UK you’ll become part of a group with over 25 years of experience perfecting holiday home ownership and with more than 6,000 owners to confirm it.

If you’re considering a beautiful holiday home close to the sea, by a lake or in the heart of the country, we have a choice of parks each one with its own distinct style and personality.

All you have to do is call us to arrange a no-obligation park visit and holiday home viewing or find out more at www.ParkHolidays.com Great facilities*, entertainment and it’s all included for owners!

• Heated swimming pools with paddling pools

Caravan Holiday Homes from

£7,995 to £85,995

• Family entertainment venues • Restaurants & takeaways • Free Wi-Fi in entertainment venues • Wi-Fi in your holiday home** • Children’s play areas • Kids’ Clubs • Mini-mart stores • Fishing lakes • Amusements • Boat moorings & slipways

Buy with confidence Your guarantee of our commitment to the very highest standards of customer service and park facilities.

Holiday home prices vary per park. *Facilities vary by park, see website for details **Charges apply, subject to service availability.

Call for a FREE brochure & DVD

Your hom e awa from hom y and a who e le lot mor e!

0843 178 7064 or visit www.ParkHolidays.com

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Out&About...

BIRDS OF PARADISE: PLUMES & FEATHERS IN FASHION The Bowes Museum, County Durham Until 19 April 2015

Silent Partners-1. Alan Beeton (1880-1942), Reposing c. 1929

A tribute to the elegance of feathers used in the fashion industry past and present. Featuring extravagant catwalk creations from top designers such as Alexander McQueen, Jean Paul Gaultier, Prada and Gucci.

The fashion for feathers as accessories is also revealed with tantalising displays of fans, hats, including a Thierry Mugler, Haute Couture Collection Spring number by Stephen Jones, and sumptuous feather shoes from Roger Vivier.

Tel. 01833 690606 www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

Silent Partners

Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge Until 25 January 2015

Discover the evolution of the artist’s mannequin. Life-size dolls and over 180 remarkable artworks from collections across the world are on display in Cambridge. For centuries, the mannequin, or lay figure, was little more than a studio tool, a piece of equipment as necessary as easel, pigments and brushes. Discover from the 19th century how the mannequin moved centre stage to become the subject of the painting, and eventually, in creative partnership with the artist, a work of art in its own right.

Tel. 01223 332 900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk

Fred A Farrell – Glasgow’s War Artist People’s Palace, Glasgow Until 23 November

An exciting and thought-provoking exhibition, focusing on the war drawings of Glasgow artist Frederick Arthur Farrell.

Commissioned by the Corporation of Glasgow to produce 50 drawings capturing the life of the Scottish regiments on the front line and munitions factories in Glasgow to record the war for posterity.

Tel. 0141 287 4350 www.glasgowlife.org.uk

Wedding Dresses - Silk brocade, gown, hat and shoes 1780. Image reproduced by kind permission of the Olive Matthews Collection Chertsey Museum.

Photograph by John Chase

Wedding Dresses

British Folk Art

Until 15 March 2015

An exhibition to challenge, delight and surprise your preconceptions about what Folk Art really is. It features over 150 paintings, sculptures, textiles and objects which have been drawn together from collections across the country.

Featured are rom rustic leather Toby jugs to brightly coloured ships’ figureheads. The imposing larger than life-size thatched figure of King Alfred created by a master thatcher, Jesse Maycock, in 1960 is just one of the highlights of the exhibition. Other highlights include maritime embroidery by fisherman John Craske, an intricately designed pin cushion made by wounded soldiers during the Crimean war, shop signs and whirligigs.

Tel. 01926 645500 www.comptonverney.org.uk

V&A London

Step back in time and take a look at some of the most romantic, glamorous and extravagant weddings dresses from the V&A’s collection, including those worn by famous people as well as royalty over the last two centuries.

Discover revealing fascinating details about the lives of the wearers and offering an intimate insight into their circumstance and fashion choices.

Tel. 020 7942 2000 www.vam.ac.uk 16

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Compton Verney, Warwickshire Until 14 December

Three Sober Preachers, English School - Compton Verney, photo by Prudence Cuming Associates Ltd

www.london-handel-festival.com

E X C L U S I V E

Luxury Lodge Living

10 MARCH - 20 APRIL 2015

LAURENCE CUMMINGS MUSICAL DIRECTOR

HANDEL SEMELE & GIOVE IN ARGO BACH ST MATTHEW PASSION LONDON HANDEL PLAYERS DRAGON OF WANTLEY SARABAND SOLOMON’S KNOT HANDEL SINGING COMPETITION 2015 SOUTHBANK SINFONIA BAROQUE OPERA SETTECENTO AMADÈ PLAYERS LUNCHTIME SERIES WALKS TALKS MAYFAIR ORGAN CONCERTS For details please go to the website

For 200 years , The National Benevolent Charity has been a lifeline to people who have fallen into poverty and distress and who have nowhere else to turn.

People like nurse Leah, 58, and her artist husband David, 63. They wanted a happy retirement together but Leah became crippled with

CHOICE OF 23 AMAZING LOCATIONS Park Holidays UK own and operate the largest park group in the south of England, with 23 parks in some of the most enviable locations.

It is so important to find a park that is right for you today and in the future.

With Park Holidays UK you’ll become part of a group with over 25 years of experience perfecting holiday home ownership and with more than 6,000 owners to confirm it.

If you’re considering a luxury lodge or second home close to the sea, by a lake or in the heart of the country, we have a choice of parks each one with its own distinct style and personality.

All you have to do is call us to arrange a no-obligation park visit and holiday home viewing or find out more at www.ParkHolidays.com

Great facilities*, entertainment and it’s all included for owners!

• Heated swimming pools with paddling pools

• Family entertainment venues

Luxury Lodges from £79,995 to £175,995

• Restaurants & takeaways • Free Wi-Fi in entertainment venues • Wi-Fi in your holiday home** • Children’s play areas • Kids’ Clubs • Mini-mart stores • Fishing lakes

arthritis and cannot walk.

• Boat moorings & slipways

David is dedicated to his wife

• Amusements

Buy with confidence

and cares for her full time. But, the loss of earned income has been devastating, and they are poverty-stricken.

Despite state benefits, sickness, disability and old age can still mean a life of awful hardship.

We could arrange the quick sale of your current home allowing you to downsize to a smaller main residence and own a beautiful holiday caravan or luxury lodge.

Holiday home prices vary per park. *Facilities vary by park, see website for details **Charges apply, subject to service availability.

For Leah and David and hundreds of people like them, The National Benevolent Charity can help.

The National Benevolent Charity Peter Hervé House, Eccles Court, Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8EH

Your guarantee of our commitment to the very highest standards of customer service and park facilities.

Call for a FREE brochure & DVD

0843 178 7064 Your home away from home and a whol e lot more !

or visit www.ParkHolidays.com

For more info visit www.thenbc.org.uk or telephone 01666 505500 Patron: HRH The Prince of Wales Registered Charity Number 212450 RETIREMENT

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group things according to shape or use, so a row of identical herb or spice containers, for example, or a cluster of copper jelly moulds will create their own visual entity. Colour or pattern can also be used as a unifying theme for a collection; green glass bottles in various hues and sizes will look stronger when grouped together, as will a cluster of creamware plates and platters of various sizes and shapes, but sharing the same offwhite glaze.

For collections displayed on single narrow shelves or mantelpieces think of the overall shape of the items on show. Try putting the tallest piece, such as a large coffee pot, in the middle then graduate the other objects outwards on either side, so that they decrease in stature until the smallest items are at either end of the shelf.This will create a key central point and then a smooth line for the eye to follow, so the individual pieces themselves can be appreciated.

Shape is also important in bringing together a collection of random items. You can either arrange them within the confines or frame of an architectural feature in the room, such as a chimney breast or an alcove, or create a theoretical shape such as a circle or square. By arranging the objects within the feature or perceived delineation of the shape you will create a group that is visually more pleasing to the eye than random gathering, which can look like clutter.

Taxidermy makes an unusual wall dressing. Here the pieces are contained within glass-fronted, sealed boxes to protect them from steam and grease.

The Collector’s Kitchen

The Collector’s Kitchen

T

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here are three types of collector’s kitchens. The first is where the objects are on display and regularly used, the second is where the collection is primarily for decorative display purposes, and the third is a mix of both use and display.

The kitchen where the collection is in daily use will have display areas that are easily accessible, whereas the solely display collection may feature rows of jugs high up on the top of a dresser or plates grouped on a wall and hung from platehanging racks or fixed clips. The third type of collector’s kitchen, which is probably the most common, will have a combination of both. The ‘used’ collection is usually made up of things that look attractive but are not precious or irreplaceable, whereas the purely display collection may include rare and special or limited edition pieces, as well as some things that are beautiful but fragile or damaged, so no longer capable of withstanding the rigours of use.

To display your collection or collections in an interesting and attractive way it is worth taking time to test and trial various arrangements. First of all take a long hard look at your kitchen and how you can use what is available, identifying usable wall area with sufficient height and space so that items arranged there won’t be in the way or likely to be damaged by heat from a stove or steam. If you have uneven or springy flooring then you will need to level out a freestanding dresser or secure it to the wall so that it doesn’t rock or shake when people walk by, setting all your painstakingly amassed china rattling or threatening to slip.

For the maximum visual impact try to focus the main part of your display at eye level, rather than high up or low down where it might be overlooked.Then analyse your collection and decide whether you should have one large focal point, say a dresser, or a couple of smaller groups – for example, a cluster of decorative side plates linked by a colour theme displayed on the wall, with a row of vintage glasses on a shelf above or nearby. A large quantity of a certain object, such as jugs and pitchers, or a particular type of china, can be very impressive, but be careful to keep the overall size of the arrangement in proportion so that it doesn’t overwhelm a small kitchen or get lost in a large one.

Once you have identified the area in which your collection will be located then look at the different display options. If you are using deep shelves or a dresser then you could experiment with layering, for a dense display. Place plates upright against the back of the shelf, then a row of medium-sized cream jugs in front and finally, between the jugs and to the edge of the shelf, add smaller items such as egg cups or mustard, salt and pepper pots. You can also RETIREMENT

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The dark wood back wall of this richly coloured cabinet enhances the jewel-like colours and dense patterns of the china displayed within.

Hand-painted lines on the shelf edge and a key motif on the adjacent wall pick up on the colour and loose style of the decoration on this collection of wares.

A wooden paddle used to insert bread or pizza into a wood-burning oven is surrounded by a pewter dish dome and other kitchenalia.

Vary the density of a display by interrupting a row of richly coloured and patterned objects with a group of glasses or plain white or cream china; think of it as a pause in a conversation. If you have a particularly special piece of china such as a cup and saucer or a silver jug you can ‘frame’ it by placing it in front of an upright white plate that has a gilded or silvered edge, or is in a plain but contrasting colour.

Any collection should be securely arranged so that it is safe – both from breakages and from causing damage or injury if pieces should be accidentally dislodged. Brass or steel hooks are a useful way of doubling up shelf space and ideal for suspending items with handles such as cups, mugs and small jugs.

You can also screw them to the front edge of a dresser shelf or under a single wallmounted shelf for longer and larger items, such as baskets, utensils or dried flowers and herbs. To display flat items such as plates you can buy wire plate hangers that clip onto the foot at the back of the plate, or stick on hooks that are ideal for smaller, lightweight china. Shelves of purposebuilt display units and dressers often have a narrow indent into which the rim of an upright plate can be slotted to prevent it sliding and give stability.You can also buy small, individual ornate corbels that will support a single object.These can be used to show off one special item, or arranged in a group to form a collective display.

The one golden rule for the collector’s kitchen is that once or twice a year any items that haven’t been in regular use must be taken down and cleaned, and the shelves wiped down to prevent accumulations of dust and grease. In the case of metals such as copper or silver-cleaning will need to be even more frequent to maintain the surface shine. Dull and tarnished pieces will spoil the look of your carefully constructed array.

A useful tip is that before dismantling your display take a couple of photographs so that when you come to put everything back you have a record of where it came from n

An extract from Kitchenalia by Vinny Lee, £30 Jacqui Small.

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The Collector’s Kitchen

Creamware was made by factories such as Belleek and Wedgewood. Josiah Wedgewood, who supplied Queen Charlotte and Catherine the Great, also used the trade name Queen’s ware.

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HOPE FOR ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, other dementias and many causes of memory loss. But now there is hope with the development of new medications.

Participating in a trial normally requires attending appointments on a regular basis so that the response to the treatment can be measured.

As well as being the UK’s leading medical group of experts in memory and other cognitive (thinking) problems, Re:Cognition Health is an International Clinical Trials Site participating in the final stages of global clinical trials for these ground-breaking medications.

Trials are usually “double blinded”. This means that neither the participants nor the doctors and nurses involved know which patients are receiving the active medication and which are in the “control” group receiving a placebo.

Taking part in a trial can bring significant benefits to people with a diagnosis. They are able to access new medicines often years in advance of them being made publicly available. They are also provided with an incredible level of free healthcare and support.

Each trial has a set of entry criteria which typically includes a confirmed diagnosis which fits the study objective; memory test results within a specific range; health and lifestyle factors and the medications that a person may currently be taking.

In nearly every case, all participants are given access to the medication once the trial has been completed.

The value of trials was recently highlighted by the UK Government’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Dame Sally Davies when she issued a directive to all NHS Trust Boards and all other Health Care organisations in the UK that all people who have the opportunity of doing so enter a trial.

Spaces on trials are limited and with trials being run in other parts of the world, global competition to get a space is very high.

Has someone close to you been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease?

Participating in a trial can be beneficial for people with a diagnosis as it means they can access new medicines well before they become generally available. They also get high level health care and support free of charge during the trial.

Register or ask a question Email clinician@re-cognitionhealth.com and one of our specialists will get back to you or call 020 3355 3536 45 Queen Anne Street, London, W1G 9JF 20

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Routine Giveth and Routine Taketh Away You can lock yourself away in isolated seclusion and delve deep into scholarship, cut yourself off from the world and think alone in your ivory tower, the solitary genius of private thought. That is your time in the desert but there will come a moment when you will want to bring the fruits of your intellectual endeavour to the market place, because ultimately man is a creature of communication and you cannot deny your nature. You know that before you first disappear into your library and it will colour your thinking for the entire time of any self-imposed study.

So nobody is immune Why is community to society, especially so important that you not the old who at the should allow it control drop of a hat can be over your life? bundled off into some hellish institution like a hospital or an old people’s home. Institutions are the fixed assets of society and all those who work in them are the moving parts.

You can say goodbye to privacy and all the rights of man.You will be treated like a moron by people who in your prime would be opening

s

I strongly recommend spending disproportionate money on clothes so when you step out in search of human contact, people will look at you and say: ‘He looks dapper. Here is a man who turns himself out well, kitted out in good cloth with a little flourish like a buttonhole and maybe a Trilby on the nut’.

A tie always looks good on an old man. It shows you are maintaining discipline to the very end. You are quintessentially not letting yourself go. Everybody else in their witless youth and easy middle age can afford to cut themselves some slack but to successfully get through the last quadrant of life you need to toughen up because you are going to be attacked at any moment by illness and a thousand other frailties.

Why is community so important that you should allow it control over your life? You have no choice.

Whether you like it or not, it determines the way you think.

It doesn’t matter whether you are enslaved to its mores or sit in permanent opposition or whether your attitude lies somewhere in between these two extremes – what you are responding to is convention: group thinking.

Routine Giveth and Routine Taketh Away

O

ld people can tip over the edge. They can get wiped off the map of regular human contact.

That is why community is so important for them and if it is not made obviously available, you just have to carve your own personal territory. You have got to make your own daily round – like a visit to the pub at such and such a time for one and a half drinks and a knocking on the door of some other old bugger who hasn’t seen a human himself for a couple of days, except on the TV.You need to be as pushy as a salesman. If the world won’t come to you, you have got to go to it.

In this big empty universe you have to fend for yourself, otherwise you will sink beneath the waters of other people’s complete in-difference and drown in a sea of your own loneliness and despair.

‘No, this is not going to happen to me’, you need to say for yourself. ‘I am going to make a success of the last third of my life. I have done youth and I scored 62 per cent, middle age fouled up at the end and I lost some valuable percentage points. I want to end on a high. Most people tail off and ruin their overall life score. So this is where I am going to jolly well major, surprise the world with a high score, O yes!’

An extract from Old Age by Kit Fraser. Published by Quartet Books.

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Routine Giveth and Routine Taketh Away

doors for you and begging favours.

‘How are we doing today? Have we done a poo?’ (The answer to that is: ‘I have. Have you?’)

All you are left with is your own personal dignity, which is why I recommend cultivating a strict dress code. The first thing they take away from you when you join an institution like prison or the army is your wardrobe. Top of the shopping list: silk pyjamas. Show the bastards you are quality.

Yes, in old age you need to respect society because it not only provides you with the environment in which you can make for yourself a decent daily routine if you are outgoing, and even if you are not, you have got to make yourself that way, but you should fear it too because it can imprison you in the long, boring, painful lead up to death.

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Without community there is had to change his bed linen. ‘No, no, nothing. That is alright for the surely not. He is busy. He is fully young and the middle aged who are occupied trying to save his life. I busy at work or at school and come wouldn’t disturb him. He needs home to a family, but an old man all his energy for the job at hand.’ not only comes home to nothing. I thought. But you never say these He does not go out to anything things at the time because you are either. He is alone in the darkness – merely a solitary individual equipped nothing but him only with a paltry Where would an and the kettle. little thing like Where would Englishman be without his common sense comforting cup of tea? an Englishman and they are the be without his experts. That is comforting cup of tea? I remember why they are in white coats. They when my sixty-eight year-old father know what they are doing and died, as far as I was concerned quite anyway there is a hospital to run unnecessarily, in Raigmore hospital with rules to obey. in Inverness. He has spent the whole We were asked to leave the room day fighting desperately for his life. so that they could change his sheets He had had a bad heart attack, not and they managed to kill him in ooh that I have ever seen a good one, on 2 minutes. In only a few seconds the Sunday and he had been rudely alarm bells rung and a lot of doctors awoken on the Tuesday with another and nurses came rushing down one. Monday he had spent flirting corridors into the intensive care with the nurses, accusing them all of ward and then after a couple of being twenty-three. minutes they all came trooping out We had been by his bedside studiously avoiding our anxious, throughout Tuesday while he was questioning eyes. close-eyed on the borderline of But it was all OK because we consciousness, my mother asking were immediately offered a cup of him how he felt: ‘Bloody awful’, tea. Somebody dying is so shocking and him on one occasion feeling that the only thing you can say in her hands with his hands. That the immediate aftermath is, ‘Do physical enquiry turned out to be you want a cup of tea?’ And if you their last communication. are British, you will find yourself And then in came a couple of saying, ‘Yes please. Mine’s with milk nurses at 6.20 p.m. saying that they and two sugars n

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Quit Smoking N

Quit Smoking

icotine, the addictive chemical in tobacco, and the plant’s scientific name (Nicotiana tabacum) ‘honour Jean Nicot de Villemain (1530-1600), the French ambassador to Portugal who introduced tobacco to Parisian society when he returned from Lisbon in 1561. Tobacco rapidly became fashionable. However, more than 400 years later, smoking is increasingly socially unacceptable – just look at the huddles of smokers outside offices, pubs and restaurants.

Indeed, the proportion of the UK population who smoke is declining. During the 1940s around 70 per cent of men and 40 per cent of women smoked. According to government statistics, in 2009 22 per cent of men and 20 per cent of women in England smoked.That’s a welcome fall. But about 8.8 million smokers still put their lives as risk. For example: • Around half of those who do not quit smoking die prematurely from their addiction.

• Smokers are roughly twice as likely to die from cancer as non-smokers are.

• Smokers increase the likelihood of suffering a stroke up to threefold.

• Smoking underlies one-fifth of deaths among middle-aged people.

• Smoking causes around half of all cases of heart disease.

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On the other hand, quitting reduces your likelihood of developing most smoked-related diseases. According to the Department of Health: • A lifelong smoker dies, on average, around 10 years sooner than they otherwise would.

• A person who stops smoking at 30 or 40 years of age gains, on average, 10 and 9 years of life, respectively.

• Even a 60 year-old gains 3 year of life by quitting.

The dangers to your family If the benefits to your health are not enough to make you quit, think of the harm you’re doing to your loved ones. Secondhand smoke contains more than 4,000 chemicals, including about 50 carcinogens. This cocktail of chemical toxins increases the risk of serious diseases – including cancer, heart disease, asthma and sudden infant death syndrome – in people who inhale second-hand smoke. For example, the risks that a woman who has never smoked will develop ling cancer or heart disease are 24 and 40 percent greater, respectively, if she lives with a smoker.

Making quitting easier

Fewer than 1 in every 30 smokers manages to quit each year and more than half of these relapse within a year. And ideally you need to quit, not cut down. People who reduce the number of cigarettes they smoke usually inhale more deeply to get the same amount of nicotine.

Nevertheless, cutting back seems to increase the likelihood that you’ll eventually quit by, in some studies, 70 per cent compared with those who never cut back. In other words, reduction can take you a large step towards kicking the habit. But don’t stop there.

You’ll need to deal with nicotine’s withdrawal symptoms, which can leave you irritable, restless and anxious, experiencing insomnia and suffering intense cravings for a cigarette. In general, withdrawal symptoms abate over 2 weeks or so. However, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) can help you cope with the withdrawal symptoms.

You can chose from various types of NRT. Patches reduce withdrawal symptoms but have a relatively slow onset of action.

Compared with control*

Compared with varenicline

Combinations of different 34 per cent more effective nicotine replacement therapies

Varenicline 78 per cent more effective

Standard-dose (less than 48 per cent more effective 22 mg) nicotine Patches

Varenicline 56 per cent more effective

High-dose nicotine patches 69 per cent more effective

Varenicline 47 per cent more effective

Bupropion 40 per cent more effective

Varenicline 61 per cent more effective

Varenicline

139 per cent more effective -

*One group received the treatment to aid cessation; the ‘control’ group did not – they may have received an inert placebo.

Tips to help you quit

Breaking tobacco’s hold is tough.

After all, on some measures, nicotine is more addictive than heroin or cocaine. But, in addition to using NRT, a few hints may make life easier.

• Set a quit date when you will stop completely. Plan ahead: keep a diary of problems and situations that tempt you to light up, such as stress, coffee, meals, pubs or work breaks. Then try to find alternatives.

• Try to find something to take your mind off smoking. If you find yourself smoking when you get home in the evening, try a new hobby or exercise. If you find car journeys boring without a cigarette, listen to an audio book or a comedy CD. Most people find that the craving for a cigarette usually only lasts a couple of minutes.

• Smoking is expensive. Keep a note of how much you save, and spend at least some of it on something for yourself.

• Tackle stress.You could try relaxation therapies.

• Get a free quit smoking pack from the NHS Smoking Helpline (0800 022 4 332).

• Ask if your area offers NHS antismoking clinics, often at a doctor’s surgery. These clinics offer advice, support and, when appropriate, a supply of NRT. • Think about hypnotherapy.

If you would like to try this, ask your doctor for a recommendation of contact the British Association of Medical Hypnosis.

You may also need to deal with hunger pangs. Military commanders from the Thirty Years War to World War I encouraged smoking to blunt fear and hunger. But try to avoid reaching for the sweet packet, which may mean you put on weight. In one study, people who quit smoking gained 1.12 kg during the month after quitting and 4.67 kg after a year. Watching the consumption of sweet items and junk foods can help you control your weight. However, it’s worth noting that 16 per cent of people lost weight after quitting, 37 per cent gained less than 5 kg and 13 per cent gained more than 10 kg.

If you really crave sugar, try some sweet-tasting foods instead, such as dates, kiwi fruit and pineapple.

Keep trying

Nicotine is incredibly addictive and, not surprisingly, many people do not manage to quit the first time they try. But if you relapse, try not to become too dispirited. Regard it as a temporary setback, set another quit date and try again.

It’s also worth trying to identity why you relapsed. Were you stressed out? If so, why? Was smoking linked to a particular time, place or event?

Once you know why you slipped you can develop strategies to stop the problem in the future.

An extract from Coping with Liver Disease by Mark Greener, published

by Sheldon Press.

Quit Smoking

Nicotine chewing gum, lozenges, inhalers and nasal spray act more quickly. Talk to your pharmacist or GP to find the right combination for use.

If you still find quitting tough even after trying NRT, doctors can prescribe other treatments, such as bupropion and varenicline. Indeed, varenicline seems to be the most effective smoking cessation aid based on the result of 146 studies. But there is no quick fix. You’ll need to be committed to quitting.

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SHRIPNEY GARDENS CARAVAN PARK

An award winning, family run, retirement park home village for the over 50’s. Residents enjoy a traditional community atmosphere, peaceful walks, private fishing, natural wildlife, beautiful landscaping and security and peace of mind.

Nestled in beautiful rural Lincolnshire, The Elms is your Retirement Dream.

Homes available from £65,000 to £170,000 The Elms, Torksey, Lincoln, LN1 2EH 01427 718243 sales@thejohnkinchgroup.co.uk www.elmsretirementpark.co.uk

Small, select site of caravans in beautiful W. Sussex countryside.

Non-letting holiday park, open 12 months.

Homes fully serviced, pets welcome.

PARK EXTENSION! 6 luxury caravans for sale, full c/h & d/g used caravans from £7500

Tel. 01243 823479 Mob. 07940 354424

www.shripneygarden.co.uk

Near Chichester, Arundel & South Downs.

1.5 miles from Bognor Regis and Sea

Considering Retirement in Beautiful Cornwall?

Kernow Park Homes is a family owned company that

KERNOW

manages two retirement Park Home estates. Both of our parks are situated in beautiful North Cornwall, with many local facilities and convenient transport links.

PARK HOMES

Retirement Retirement Park Park Homes Homes in in

Cornwall Cornwall Bespoke New Homes from

£130,000

Sun Valley Park is our original park, with a selection of plots for new bespoke homes and previously-owned homes available.

Sat Nav : TR9 6RN - Station Road, St. Columb Major

Chy Noweth Park is a brand new development of 11 plots for bespoke new park homes.

Sat Nav : TR9 6BU - Barn Lane, St. Columb Major Your dream retirement home could be designed and built to your individual needs, with prices starting from just £130,000 For more information on both parks and park home living, visit www.kernowparkhomes.co.uk

Contact www.kernowparkhomes.co.uk 26

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16 Barn Lane, St. Columb Major, Cornwall TR9 6BU Telephone : 01637 880549 email : enquiries@kernowparkhomes.co.uk

The park home lifestyle You’ll find that if you buy a park home to live in you’re buying into more than a home, it’s a lifestyle change which brings a lot of additional benefits. Most residential parks are for over 50’s, so you’re likely to find yourself with like-minded people in a similar age group who enjoy a bit of peace and quiet, but are often still active. Many parks have gated and secure entry systems so you can really relax when you’re away and may find it a return to the old fashioned values of neighbourliness while you’re at home. The homes are low maintenance and very economical to run too, and most qualify for Band A council tax. While you buy the home you won’t own the land if it’s on a park, and you’ll need to pay a monthly ground rent which varies according to the park and area – some parks have recreational facilities and amenities and some are quite simple.

The homes:

It might surprise you!

I

f you’re at the stage where you’re starting to consider your options for retirement or want to think about semiretirement, there are some fantastic options available in the park home world well worth a closer look.

If your idea of a park home is a step up from static caravans then you’re missing a bit of a trick they’ve changed enormously over the past decade, and park homes and

By Bella Brodie

lodges are now more like luxury apartments, with good quality furnishings and carpets, central heating and double glazing, modern appliances, everything you need for a comfortable, secure and luxurious lifestyle. Also, because they are still technically mobile homes they’re not subject to the same planning constraints as brick built properties so you’ll often find them in some of the most beautiful locations in the UK – a considerable plus point!

What to look out for: There are two types of park homes to look out for – residential park homes for use on parks with an allyear round licence enabling you to live there full time, and leisure homes which you can use as a holiday bolthole or investment opportunity if you’re prepared to hire it out when you’re not using it. Both types can vary in appearance for use on either type of park, for example you can have a residential lodge to live in all year round, and leisure homes can be built to residential standard, so it can initially seem a little confusing to start with - however the key is finding ensuring that the park licence allows you to use your home the way you need to, and asking for a written statement from the park owner which outlines the terms on which you’ll be occupying your plot.

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Take a look at the Park Home Lifestyle

Take a look at the Park Home Lifestyle

Manufacturers have a range of home layouts and designs to help you choose, but they will also build bespoke homes to match your tastes and the way you like to live too, and that can maximise your use of space wonderfully. Generally most opt to have it all included to achieve the ‘designer look’ where everything matches perfectly and looks absolutely stunning. It’s like walking into your own ready-made show home designed specifically for you – what could be more exciting?

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The parks:

Take a look at the Park Home Lifestyle

The Parks:

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You’ll find some great park examples below which we’ve highlighted because they all offer something a little bit special: The JJ Cooper Group specialises in park home estates with a traditional residential feel. A family run business established three decades ago in the south of England, this group has 8 parks in total, each quite individual but all with a friendly atmosphere and quality feel. There are some remarkable locations available through this group, such as Upton Cross Park, 3 miles from the historic harbour town of Poole with its fashionable shops and restaurants, 1.5 miles from Hamworthy beach and only 6 miles to Bournemouth and Sandbanks, one of the most desirable locations in the south. Garstons Park Village is on the outskirts of Reading and has a brand new development underway. With the River Thames nearby this really does have great appeal. For those who like to spend a little time abroad, Cambridge Lodge Park is only 3 miles from Gatwick, and Robann Park, their newest redevelopment project near Southampton will have new park homes available soon.

Kernow Park Homes

John Kinch group -twin home and garden RETIREMENT

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Kernow Park Homes is a family owned company that manages Sun Valley Park and owns Chy Noweth Park, both residential parks in quiet locations, conveniently situated within the market town of St Columb Major in Cornwall. Chy Noweth is the newer development of the two, and will have 11 exclusive residential park homes, available from their manufacturing partners Pathfinder and Prestige Park and Leisure homes, both building to a superb quality.Their location is brilliant for those who want plenty to enjoy once retirement kicks in. Not far from Newquay, Padstow and St Austell, all the treasures of Cornwall are near to hand to enjoy, such as The Lost Gardens of Heligan, The Eden Project, a wealth of beautiful beaches, and atmospheric fishing towns packed with amazing shops and restaurants to explore.

The Elms is a great example of a park with residential park homes with a holiday feel in lodge style, and a great atmosphere of peace, quiet and security.

Set in a canalside spot in Lincolnshire, It has space for those with caravans or motorhomes and even private moorings for those with boats too, and canalside fishing. The homes even have extra utility rooms on the back in addition to garages for most of the twin homes. There’s a park minibus to make local shopping really easy so residents really get a lot for their money. The lodges are tucked away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, set in 65 acres of parkland which has been developed over the past 30 year by the Kinch Family, who are still ‘hands on’ in the business and accessible to residents.

It’s a great location next to Torksey Lock where there’s a pretty tea room overlooking the water too. Part exchange

Park Holidays UK

is also available here, making a move pretty easy and straightforward.

Park Holidays UK are a great starting point for those looking for lodges for holiday use, as they have a wide range of sizes and styles across their 23 parks, all with beautiful picturesque and stunning views of coastlines woodlands or lakes. For those thinking of downsizing to a smaller permanent home to fund a holiday property on one of their parks they have a home exchange scheme too, so if you’ve previously thought you could never afford a luxury lodge to escape to with your family, there may be a great solution available through Park Holidays UK. Prices are very appealing and you could also sub-let your lodge with them too to offset the costs, and they’ll manage that process for you to make it really easy.

The parks are in fantastic locations and because they are holiday parks you can try-before-you-buy. Just think of the fun you could have looking!

FACT FILE:

To find out more about the groups featured go to: www.jjcoopergroup.com T: 0118 943 8782 www.kernowparkhomes.co.uk T: 01637 880549 www.elmsretirementpark.co.uk T: 01427 718 243 www.parkholidays.com T: 0843 178 5065

Recommended reading:

To find out more about the park lifestyle in general visit www.theparkhome.net, which gives impartial advice fron the NCC, the trade body representing the UK residential park home industry or www.ukparks.com for information from the BH&HPA (British Holiday and Home Parks association.

DO YOU KNOW THAT SENDING GOODS TO AUCTION CAN INCUR SIGNIFICANT CHARGES. EVEN IF YOUR GOODS DON’T SELL OR MEET THE RESERVE YOU WILL OWE THE AUCTION HOUSE MONEY.

Discreet lady antique dealer – available to visit client in own home, fair and honest prices given.

Interested in a wide range of antique, vintage, and 20th century items.

Tel 01296 632706 and speak to Wendy Cummings in the first instance or email chilternvintage@gmail.com JJC JJ C C J JC

J JC J JC

C

JJ

JJ

TM

JJ COOPER & SONS

Tingdene Harcourt-Mackworth Fully Residential Prices start at £115,000 for size of 30ft x 20ft Located at Garstons Park Home Village

Stately Wentwood Twin

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Exclusive Park Home Estates

HERE QUALITY IS A FAMILY TRADITION

New development at Garstons Park Home Village.

25 bungalow style park homes, fully furnished with residential specification.

All prices on all our parks include Landscaped Garden & Driveway.

Private Residential Estates for the over 45s.

Tingdene 36x20 located at California Country Park Homes, Finchampstead, Berkshire. Landscape garden, patio and driveway included. Price £165,000 Stately Albion Wentwood 46x22 Located at Bungalow Park, Amesbury, Wiltshire. 2 bedrooms, fully integrated appliances, front and rear driveway, landscape garden. Price £149,995 Alternatively we can supply you a new park home to your exact requirements from any park home manufacturer.

Exclusive Park Home Estates at: Garstons Park Home Village, Tilehurst, Berkshire, RG31 4TS (Head Office).

California Country Park, Finchampstead, Berkshire, RG40 4HT | Kingsleigh Park, Thundersley, Essex, SS7 3QJ Cambridge Lodge Park, Horley, Surrey, RH6 8PR | Upton Cross Park, Poole, Dorset, BH16 5PN | Oxford Park Homes, Sandford-on-Thames, Oxford, OX4 4YT | Bungalow Park, Amesbury, Wiltshire, SP4 7PJ | Robann Park, Fareham, Hampshire.

Call us today 0118 942 8782

info@jjcoopergroup.com | www.jjcoopergroup.com RETIREMENT

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east view farm h o l i d a y

c o t t a g e s

L U X U R Y self catering accommodation situated in the tranquil Norfolk countryside

www.eastviewfarm.co.uk home l ke a a felt li ry person y ll a e Re me. V ention to nd o h m tt a fro me, a lean welco otlessly c d the , sp Love il . in o ta e to o d to d ious spac of things . ty a ie e r m) var the a ily, Birmingha (The

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Brown

www.brunelcrescent.com

m ing Fa

A DEVELOPMENT BY BLUE VIEW PROPERTIES

Experience Days Volunteering A New Year’s Resolution Idea

For a chance to win any of the prizes, send your name and address (quoting reference code) to: Amra Media Solutions, The Old Lavender Mill, 46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, Bucks, HP22 5ES or email: info@amramedia.co.uk

KING CHARLES III

To mark the launch of King Charles III’s new senior rate we’re offering you the chance to win 1 of 2 pairs of tickets.

Following a sold-out run at the Almeida Theatre, Mike Bartlett’s critically acclaimed new future history play King Charles III is now running at Wyndham’s Theatre.

The Queen is dead: after a lifetime of waiting, the prince ascends the throne. A future of power. But how to rule? ***** ‘PLAY OF THE YEAR. A CROWNING ACHIEVEMENT’ Mail on Sunday King Charles III, Wyndham’s Theatre, Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0DA 0844 482 5120 http://Kingcharles3play.co.uk/ £17.50 Senior rate now available for weekday matinee performances.

Until 31 January 2015 is no cash Tickets valid for a Monday – Thursday performance, subject to availability. There resale. for not and ferable non-trans and dable alternative to the prizes, they are non-refun y Subject to availabilit For a chance to win send in your details, quoting ref KC. Closing date: 10 December 2014

S

ituated on the Essex/Suffolk border, this pretty country line is situated on a one mile stretch of the old Colne Valley & Halstead Railway with the station and other attractions being situated at the mid-way point. Run entirely by volunteers with operational steam and diesel engines on certain days and a large collection of carriages and wagons including a Travelling Post Office.

Going down in size there is a miniature ride-on railway, a garden railway layout and a large ‘00’ gauge layout. One of the station buildings was originally sited 1.5 miles away and was moved and rebuilt brick by brick. You are welcome to visit a working signal box and look round the exhibition centre. During May-September the woodland walk is open - the area attracts all sorts of wildlife including kingfishers and otters. They have a well-stocked shop and buffet car which can provide you with fare ranging from hot meals to cream teas.

Disabled access: They have ramp access to all trains, and disabled toilet facilities. The signal box and buffet are not wheelchair accessible (the buffet is a railway carriage with narrow doors and 2 small steps) there is an outdoor patio area n For further information visit www.colnevalleyrailway.co.uk

DOWNTON ABBEY SERIES 5 COMES TO DVD AND BLU-RAY DOWNTON ABBEY SERIES 5 is released on Blu-RayTM and DVD from 17 November 2014 from Universal Pictures (UK).

Featuring an exclusive documentary entitled ‘The Manners of Downton Abbey’, where historian and Downtown Abbey oracle Alastair Bruce takes you through the etiquette of how to eat, marry, behave, dress and male money in the 1920’s.

Re-visiting the house in 1924, discover that times are changing in Season 5. The critically acclaimed ensemble cast reprise their beloved characters, plus some new faces walk the halls of Downton.

For a chance to win 1 of 3 DVD boxed sets, send in your details, quoting ref DA. Closing date 10 December 2014 RETIREMENT

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Competitions

COMPETITIONS

Visit Colne Valley and Halstead Railway

Experience Days

F

rom gardening to gas lamps, there’s a surprising variety of volunteer roles at the Watercress Line steam railway!

Preserved railways rely on a small army of volunteers to keep them running so whether you have existing skills that you would like to put to use, or you would like to do something totally different, you will always be welcome. Don’t be put off by the thought that it’s all enthusiastic old men playing with trains – the railways all have a huge community of young and old, men and women. From the teams who keep the station buildings and gardens up together, to the gift shops and cafes, it’s not all just engineering and locomotives! If you like dealing with the public your skills will always be valuable in the offices, working at the stations in uniform or on the trains as guards and ticket inspectors. Even the dining train teams who cook and serve twice a month are all volunteers. If you prefer to be behind the scenes there is a huge variety of skilled and unskilled work, from carpentry to engineering, in maintaining the track, buildings, locos, carriages and even wagons.

From a day per month to days in a week, hundreds of loyal volunteers are the backbone of the railway. Some people fit it around their existing work commitments and others join when they retire. There are plenty of husband and wife teams as well as those who seek company after personal loss. Volunteering keeps your body and mind active and to see and hear the delight of visitors enjoying all your hard work is a truly rewarding feeling n You can find out more by visiting www.watercressline.co.uk/volunteering

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Legacy quarter page ad.pdf

1

20/04/2012

15:22

Last year we helped over 80,000 wild birds and animals like Rudolph

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M

Y

CM

Please help me get better

MY

CY

CMY

K

Not only do we treat more hedgehogs than any other wildlife hospital, but our caring teams save lives every day.

Our aim is simple, to treat injured British wildlife, then return them to the wild. Like Rudolph, who arrived badly injured at just five days old. Our specialist care saved this little deer and he is now facing a brighter future. But it is only with your support we can help casualties like Rudolph; please remember Tiggywinkles in your Will.

Our late friend Dame Thora Hird actively encouraged others to help us secure funding for our lifesaving work. In her words "All the little wild creatures and I thank you so very much".

For more information please contact: Jenny Babb, Tiggywinkles, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP17 8AF

An Alternative

C

hristmas is nearly upon us once again, and the decision to know what to buy friends and family seems to get harder every year. What do you buy the person who has everything – or what do you buy for something a little different? Giving the money to worthy charitable causes is a great alternative, and at the same time avoids the horror of traipsing through shopping malls during the preChristmas rush. If you or the person you are buying for are animal lovers then Animal Adoption is a fantastic way of giving someone a truly memorable gift, and at the same time makes a wonderful contribution to animal welfare, whether it’s for Christmas, a birthday or that special occasion. It really is the gift that keeps on giving. It can be a great alternative for children and adults who for whatever reason are unable to keep a pet at home, and can also build a lifetimes relationship with a charity.

The details of animal adoption vary slightly but the essentials remain the same. The person receives a certificate, picture of their adopted animal and in some cases a cuddly toy, all helping to create that special bond.

Here, we provide a great choice for potential adoptees, take a look and why not make this year a truly giving Christmas n

01844 292 292 mail@sttiggywinkles.org.uk www.tiggywinkles.com Registered Charity No. 286447

Come and have a look around our Visitor Centre.

Opening times can be found on our website www.tiggywinkles.com.

is the busiest wildlife hospital in the world.

Tiggywinkles

An Alternative Christmas Gift

Every year in Britain over five million wild animals and birds are injured as a direct result of their encounters with man’s world, Tiggywinkles is a specialist hospital caring for sick and injured hedgehogs, badgers, wild birds, foxes, even reptiles and amphibians.

Their main aim is to return all their recovered patients back to the wild. However, sadly some are left disabled by their injuries and would not be able to cope, such as the hedgehog.

Why not consider supporting Tiggywinkles by adopting one of their long term residents. Prices vary depending on your choice of animal. A perfect gift which helps support the work of the world’s busiest wildlife hospital, and a great way for a child to make a personal connection with an individual wildlife animal which they can visit too. www.sttiggywinkles.org.uk

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At a Glance – Adopt today and get: Photo of your chosen animal Adoption Certificate Detailed History of your chosen animal Factsheet Badge Car Sticker One free entry to Visitor Centre (for every £40 spent) RETIREMENT

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Christmas Gift

The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT)

Canine Partners

Canine Partners trains assistance dogs for people with disabilities to enjoy greater independence and a better quality of life, providing practical day to day assistance with tasks that may be difficult, painful or impossible to perform. Every disabled person has a different story to tell, has different levels of ability, different needs, different things that are preventing them from getting the most out of life, and each dog is tailor-made for each individual to make the maximum impact.

They also provide that special companionship, unconditional love and affection which is so unique to dogs.

You can sponsor a Canine Partners puppy like Calvin (pictured)) for £52 a year, which can be spread over monthly or weekly payments.

This is a co-sponsoring scheme where you help to fund the training of a future canine partner that will subsequently be matched to a person with disabilities to give them independence and a better quality of life.

A Christmas present that can really make a difference to a person’s life. www.caninepartners.org.uk

The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) is a leading UK conservation organisation, saving wetlands for wildlife and people.

They work globally to save important wetland habitats and species as well as providing a network of nine UK visitor centres.

All around the world wetlands are being lost or damaged more rapidly than any other ecosystem, threatening many species with extinction.

For example, the Eurasian otter, a charismatic creature which was once abundant in the UK suffered a dramatic decline in the past century, but now with protected status the otter is making a slow come-back in the UK. However, their plight continues as their population is far from fully recovered. By adopting an otter, you will help them improve wetland corridors and build artificial holts where they can breed safely. For as little as £3 a month, or a one-off payment you can play your part and help the recipient of your gift get closer to nature and at the same time support WWT’s important conversation work. www.wwt.org.uk

At a Glance – Adopt today and get:

At a Glance – Adopt today and get:

Introductory letter about your puppy

Adoption Certificate

Certificate

Magazine

Photo

Fact book

Cuddy toy dog

Cuddly toy of chosen species

Updates on your puppy’s adventures

Complimentary ticket to a WWT centre

Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre

©

Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre

An Alternative Christmas Gift

Monkey World –Ape Rescue Centre in Dorset is set in 65 acres of woodland, offering a safe haven for over 240 primates who have been rescued from all over the world.The sanctuary works in conjunction with foreign governments worldwide to stop the illegal smuggling of apes out of Africa and Asia. At the Centre, refugees of this illegal trade, as well as those that have suffered abuse or neglect, are rehabilitated into natural living groups. If you decide to adopt with Monkey World you can be assured that every penny goes directly to the rescue centre’s beneficiaries.

Pictured here is Thelma, a female chimpanzee who was born at Monkey World when her mother, Cherri’s birth control failed. She was born on 25/09/13 along with a twin sister, Louise. Sadly Louise did not survive as she had a hole in her heart. From just £20, just choose your monkey or ape such as Thelma, making a superb present any time of the year. www.monkeyworld.org

At a Glance – Adopt today and get: Adoption Certificate Photo of your chosen animal Newsletter Opportunity to take part in ‘adoptive parents’ only events RETIREMENT

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Adopt an otter this Christmas! from

£3

a month

We care every Christmas because of you No animal should ever spend Christmas in a rescue home. And yet thousands do. Please help those animals still waiting for a loving new home.

A gift today from you could last many seasons.

Visit www.nawt.org.uk, call 0208 950 0177 (option 1) or text NAWT33 £3 to 70070

Our Online Shop is open for Christmas cards & gifts

Adopt an otter as a gift for someone special this Christmas, and receive a cuddly toy, free ticket and a personalised certificate. wwt.org.uk/adoption

www.monkeyworld.org

Where Families matter!

Wareham, Dorset BH20 6HH T: 01929 462537 E: apes@monkeyworld.org With over 250 primates of more than 20 different species, Monkey World is the largest ape and monkey rescue centre in the world!

Open to visitors every day, except Christmas Day! ADOPT A PRIMATE THIS CHRISTMAS: From just £20 per year, receive a FREE ENTRY PASS to the park for one year, photo of your chosen primate, a certificate, and 3 editions of the Ape Rescue Chronicle newsletter magazine! Support the cause!

CALL US OR VISIT www.monkeyworld.org TO ADOPT A PRIMATE & BROWSE OUR ONLINE GIFT STORE! 34

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UPDATE

Are UK Banks Unfair to Expats?

Brits on the verge of moving abroad should be made more aware of the difficulty of opening a UK bank account once they’re overseas, and choose to keep their existing account open if possible.

Richard Way, Editor at OverseasGuidesCompany.com said: “Controversial rules by many UK banks mean that clients must have a UK address to open an account with them, however a European Commission directive due this month will require EU banks to make basic payment accounts available to all EU citizens. Even people who believe they might never need their UK account after emigrating should think again. A UK account might be needed in the future, for example for receiving a UK pension or receiving rent from a property let in the UK. And even those expats who have a UK account might want to open a new one with a better interest rate.

“Perhaps the bigger story here is that anyone planning to emigrate should begin organising their financial affairs long before they leave the UK. Consideration will need to be given to savings accounts, such as NISAs, and investments, as well as pensions – and how a move will affect these. A consultation with an independent financial advisor, ideally one that specialises in helping expats, is highly advisable – and could save a lot of hassle further down the line.”

9 IN 10 THINK MORE SHOULD BE DONE TO HELP OLDER PEOPLE CLAIM THEIR BENEFITS An overwhelming 95% of people believe that more should be done to help older people claim the full range of benefits available to them, according to new research for Age UK. The research, published recently to support the Charity’s new campaign to End Pensioner Poverty, found that over half of respondents (53%) were completely unaware that so many pensioners are living below the breadline. Upon hearing 1.6 million pensioners are in poverty, a fifth of all respondents felt angry, a quarter felt worried, and a third reported feeling shocked – with this number rising to just under half (44%) of those aged 16-24.

In its new report ‘How we can end pensioner poverty’, Age UK warns that many pensioners are floundering on low, fixed incomes and have been walking a tightrope in recent years as food and utility bills have risen dramatically. Yet despite high numbers of pensioners in the UK struggling to survive below the poverty line, with nearly a million of those living in severe poverty, each year huge numbers of older people are missing out on as much as £5.5billion of crucial financial support. Some simply do not know that they could be entitled to extra income. Others are acutely aware of the benefits available but feel too proud or embarrassed to put in a claim. Some have unsuccessfully tried before, or have been put off by the claiming process which they feel is too complicated or intrusive.

As temperatures plummet older people forced to choose to ‘eat or heat’

“There are many older people who don’t have the luxury of having families close by and it’s these people that are most at risk as temperatures plummet. As a community we absolutely need to do more to keep older relatives and neighbours front of mind at this time of year and to check that they are keeping their homes at a comfortable temperature in order to avoid unnecessary illness, and in many cases hospital admissions.”

Holidaying like it’s 1999 because we don’t understand cheaper roaming charges, says FrenchEntrée Most holiday makers are not making the most of their smartphones or tablets abroad despite over 70% owning an iPhone, iPad or similar, according to specialist property website FrenchEntrée.

A few adventurous souls have downloaded apps, videos or searched the internet on a snowscooter in Finland, while walking the Great Wall of China, out in the Sahara Desert, or even in a French brothel. Others have successfully searched while diving off the Great Barrier Reef, scaling mountains, or on safari.

Three quarters of travellers, however, stick to the hotel when it comes to looking things up online, says FrenchEntrée, which conducted the survey.

60% said they were not aware of changes in 40 EU counties, including France, Spain and Italy, that came into force this July, which capped roaming charges on mobile devices.

Guy Hibbert, Managing Director of FrenchEntrée, says, “Despite most of us taking our devices away with us, many are simply not taking advantage of adhoc events or amazing restaurant offers abroad, because of our lack of understanding and misperceptions about roaming charges.”

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Update

As the Government’s new winter advice to the elder is released, Paul Green of campaign group Saga, said “There are a significant number of pensioners who face the unenviable decision as to whether to heat or eat and that has a terrible effect on people’s health.

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at Christmas. Officially formed just over five years ago, their vision is one of Scotland where everyone can love and enjoy later life.

“We work all year round to inspire, engage with, enable and support older people, but we know that winter can be particularly hard. “ Katrina Coutts, Communications and Marketing Manager.

It’s a time of increased loneliness and health problems for many older people. Single pensioner households remain the most vulnerable to fuel poverty, with nearly half (48%) fuel poor.

‘Spread the Warmth’ is a campaign that provides information about keeping well in winter, including an annual Hot Tips calendar which is going out to 80,000+ older people around Scotland this year.

Charity begins at Christmas!

Charity begins at Christmas!

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By Bethany Bishop

t’s almost time; snazzy jumpers are permitted by now.

But funky knitwear and toasty fires aren’t the only things we’re celebrating.

UK Charity income soars from mid November to late January . British charities get a great boost at Christmas - a lot of it is down to the UK’s benevolent Christmas spirit. Sometimes a little too benevolent, sometimes a little - misguided?

Cue, the resounding chorus that will ring out like Noel Bells across the country: “oh, you shouldn’t have!”

And be honest, as receivers, we often mean; “you really shouldn’t have.”

We aren’t ungrateful for the thought behind novelty socks. But, (and even the best-behaved Christmas angel would admit it) all of us have received gifts beaming with gratitude, whilst mentally preparing a space in our darkest cupboard.

The sentiment behind the song ’12 days of Christmas’ is lovely. But the recipient is probably tutting at her turtledoves and tripping over French hens!

St Tiggywinkles is a good port of call for advice here – already charity comes to the rescue.

Dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating all species of British Wildlife, the world’s leading animal hospital treats over 10,000 casualties every year. Its doors are open 24 hours a day 365 days a year, providing care free of charge.

Since opening their doors, over 200,000 patients have received treatment.

Many of these casualties occur following encounters with man’s world. Man’s world can get no busier and more reckless than over the festive period.

“Our nursing team work shifts around the clock over Christmas ensuring the patients continue to receive the life-saving treatment they require,” Tim Moran, Funding Manager at Tiggywinkles The specialist veterinary care the charity provides is funded by donations and kind supporters everywhere and there are ways to give the charity an extra boost. The online shop, a gift of membership, or even a virtual gift to an animal?

St Tiggywinkles intend to run a campaign catering for some of Britain’s smallest wildlife. One of the things some of us (all of us) look forward to most on Christmas Day is dinner - there’s now no reason why our prickly RETIREMENT

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little friends shouldn’t either. ‘Buy a Christmas Dinner for a Hedgehog’ is another way to support the wildlife they care for.

Buying a hedgehog Christmas dinner is a delightful thought. But like Dicken’s three ghosts, charity has an uncanny knack of showing us the things we might not want to face.

Being alone and anxious on the 25th is a reality across the UK. One charity that hopes to combat this reality is Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, whose roots stretch back to 1899.

“We strive to achieve a healthier Scotland where no one dies prematurely of preventable chest, heart and stroke conditions; and for all of those affected to receive the highest standards of treatment and support.” Says Vanessa Rhazali Head of Individual Giving.

They address this in three ways; ‘Befriender’ teams, advice and local groups. But people with these conditions also face a lot of financial distress during this time.

Thanks to donations, CHSS are able to run Personal Support Grants.These grants of up to £500, extending to around £2000, fulfil a number of needs. They can be used for home adaptations or acquiring specialist equipment. CHSS even fund driving lessons for carers, and last year made 611 such grants - a gift to affected people and families of £200,000.

The CHSS Welfare Committee manages and reviews applications, adhering to protocol, ensuring those who will genuinely benefit from this extra bit of support will receive it.

Age Scotland is a charity that also breathes warmth into people’s homes

A ‘Winter Warmer event’ can be anything from a hot chocolate morning at your community centre, to a winter party, a mince pie bakeoff or a wear a whacky woolly day!

Money raised will also help prevent loneliness by creating opportunities for older people to socialise and enjoy a hot meal.

Winter Warmer packs are available via the website for anyone interested, containing ideas, useful checklists and important things to think about.

We’re not the only ones who may feel cold and lonely at Christmas.

Our furry (and not so furry) friends of all shapes and sizes also need some extra care.

©

Kevin Dooley

BRACE also depends on sales, and fundraising activities that supporters arrange themselves. So, in the name of a brighter future, 2014 is a Christmas to be creative!

Arrange an activity, but note festive fun is imperative. Something you and your family enjoy, or that embraces the wider community, friends and colleagues.

Making some fairy-scopic changes in our Christmas shopping can also go further than you think.

The charities mentioned offer great gift ideas and Christmas essentials, from diaries and journals, to funny coasters and even the chance to tell your very own life story. The best bet is to nip online and browse the full range. What’s more, volunteerrun charity shops offer the perfect New Year home for those bath sets you’re allergic to and jumpers that bury you. Kind donations keep these shops ticking over, raising money for great causes.

Shop with Amazon, John Lewis, M&S, Tesco, Vodaphone, Aviva, Expedia, Next or Viking? Then you’re halfway to supporting tons of charities all year round. www. easyfundraising.org.uk explains how to raise funds at no extra cost.

To see how you can support charities by buying with their partners, visit their specific website.

A gift to charity is a duet of giving, the warm buzz of a wholesome deed is shared. Without taking away this sentiment, it’s also chance to marry Christmas charity with a real desire to avoid the disingenuous thanks we’ll have to dish out like mince pies on the big day.

The process works both ways: what do you buy someone who already has everything?

Ask for their favourite charity, something that means a lot to them, and give a unique gift by supporting it. What could be more thoughtful than that?

So much childhood magic is rooted in Christmas. When we watched life change and sparkle, and twirled and leapt with the joy of it.

St Tiggywinkles, Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, Age Scotland and BRACE are amazing examples of just a few charities that work tirelessly all year. They work to make life change and sparkle. We can still rejoice in the wonder of that.We can always rejoice in the wonder of that – but there’s no better time than Christmas.

Besides, who says we’re ever too old to twirl and leap? We can do it in our jumpers, the snazzier the better n

www.sttiggywinkles.org.uk www.chss.org.uk www.agescotland.org.uk www.nawt.org.uk www.alzheimers-brace.org RETIREMENT

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Charity begins at Christmas!

Fortunately, National Animal Welfare Trust (NAWT) never stops caring. The charity’s roots can be traced to 1958.

Whether you already own a pet or are looking for a new companion, NAWT can help. But NAWT offer much more than rehoming help, they also promote responsible pet ownership, with a number of advice sheets on a range of topics.

“We are always there to help support at any time and for whatever reason.” Confirms Wendy Richmond, NAWT delegate.

Not all pets are lucky enough to find a cosy home in time for Christmas. However, NAWT do their best to make sure they’re well looked after. Volunteers even take time out from family celebrations feed (and cuddle) a cat on Christmas Day. Some staff raise funds to make a special nutritious Christmas dinner for all the dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs.

Fighting off an intolerably adorable mental picture of hedgehogs in hats dining with other little festive guests?

Us too.

Rudolph may not be the only star of the show - last year a rescue Labrador called Maxi stole it in a unique fundraising event organised by a NAWT charity shop in Cornwall. ‘Santa Paws’, the mini-sled on wheels, toured the town to promote the shop’s ‘mulled wine and mince pies’ afternoon.

He and his owner blitzed it, helping raise over £300.

Perhaps it’s a Christmas to help a rescued pet say a special thanks by embarrassing them in a fundraising scheme?

We’ll leave the details to you.

We should remember that unlike the final Christmas Carol ghost, charity doesn’t reveal a morbid future.

It does better than that; it shows us the bright future we can achieve.

I m a g i n e Christmas where we couldn’t collect our memories, and the joy of the season was lost completely. It’s a frightening idea, but BRACE works for a future we needn’t fear.

Diagnosis of dementia is one of a disease without cure.

There is a new case of dementia every four seconds, and the number of people with the condition may treble worldwide by 2050. BRACE aspire to a time where people live into old age without fear of a disease stealing memories and leaving them unable to manage basic tasks.

BRACE supports research, helping science find answers.

“Medical research is not cheap.” Says Mark Poarch, Chief Executive,“ It takes highly qualified scientists a long time to track down causes, developing and testing potential treatments.

Cancer Research receives substantial annual funds; we need to achieve income on that scale.”

There is still a huge shortfall and need for fundraising, but simple donations go a very long way.

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Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland

Reflect and remember a loved one All gifts in memory have a real and positive impact on what we are able to achieve each year. As Scotland’s Health Charity, our vital work directly benefits the lives of people in Scotland affected by chest heart or stroke illness.

We care about those left behind following the death of a loved one from these conditions, and we are here to offer support at a sensitive time.

For more information please contact us on 0131 225 4800 or email gifts@chss.org.uk

We are Scotland’s Health Charity Research • Advice • Support • Action

Dementia research needs charity funds more than ever

Registered with and regulated by the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (no SC018761), Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland is a wholly Scottish charity.

It also operates as CHSS and is registered in Scotland as a company limited by guarantee, no SC129114.

Advice Line: 0808 801 0899 FREE from landlines and mobiles

Dementia research charity BRACE reports that calls on its funds have increased dramatically over the last couple of years.

When the charity was founded in 1987, dementia was not a fashionable area for medical research, and there was greater scepticism about the ability of medicine to make a difference. Twenty seven years on, researchers are building on the work of those who have gone before them. The causes, diagnosis and treatment of dementia are being explored with increasing urgency and vigour on many fronts.

The G8 Dementia Summit last December included pledges by the British and other governments of more funds for research. Some might conclude that, with the millions of pounds of extra funding promised, there is no longer a need for research charities.

Dementia Research

BRACE Chief Executive Mark Poarch disagrees strongly. He said, “The money spent on cancer research far exceeds even now what is available to dementia research. As we know, cancer research has made huge progress, but this progress has been both expensive. That’s the nature of medical research and we have to show the same commitment to dementia if we are to beat it.

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“Charities like ours tend to support the small scale research that leads to bigger things later. Without this, the major research wouldn’t happen.

A good example is pilot research we supported over several years from 2004 which has resulted in a £2 million clinical drug trial, government funded, into the potential of an existing blood pressure treatment to help people with Alzheimer’s.

“With so much being achieved, now is the time to make an even greater effort.”

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Retirement Today at the 50 Plus Show Glasgow SECC

T

he team at Retirement Today recently spent a few days in the beautiful city of Glasgow meeting the attendees of the 50 Plus Show, Glasgow SECC now in it’s 6th year.

We ran a competition to win an overnight stay with dinner, bed and breakfast at the stunning Four Season Hotel. This magnificent hotel is situated in a picturesque setting on the banks of Loch Earn.The natural beauty of this location is the first delight for every visitor to St. Fillans, and the position of the Four Seasons, looking south-west down Loch Earn, is one of the most enviable settings in Scotland. The views from the hotel are ever-changing throughout the seasons: fresh new colours of spring, long, light summer’s evenings, spectacular sunsets to the west, morning mists shrouding the loch and the snow covered Bens.

The winner was Hilary Shearer from Glasgow who will be enjoying her visit in due course.

As we grow older we all want to keep doing the things we love, remain independent and have a fulfilling life. However, as we age we may face new challenges - perhaps even loneliness, isolation, discrimination or poverty.

That’s why Age Scotland is here. We are dedicated to helping everyone make the most of later life. We improve the quality of life for thousands of older people every year by providing free information which can be life changing. We support local groups where older people can come together and be part of a community. Where we find disadvantage and unfairness we stand up and speak for those who need us. But none of this would be possible without you.

When you visit your solicitor, and you have taken care of your loved ones, please remember Age Scotland in your will - even a small gift can make a massive difference. Together, we can make Scotland a place where we all love later life.

Age Scotland (Dept RT) Causewayside House 160 Causewayside Edinburgh EH9 1PR

w: www.agescotland.org.uk e: fundraising@agescotland.org.uk p: 0845 833 0200

Charity No: SC010100 Age Scotland, part of the Age Network, is an independent charity dedicated to improving the later lives of everyone on the ageing journey, within a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in Scotland.

Registration Number: 153343 Charity Number: SC010100 Registered Office: Causewayside House, 160 Causewayside, Edinburgh EH9 1PR.

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17/10/2014 13:37:13 RETIREMENT today

Retirement Today at the 50 Plus Show Glasgow SECC

Let’s make Scotland a place where we all love later life.

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Britain’s BIGGEST exhibition for the active over-50s!

REGISTE R FOR FR EE

BIRMINGHAM NEC Friday-Saturday 13-14 FEB 2015

LONDON OLYMPIA GRAND Thursday-Saturday 23-25 JULY 2015

Music and entertainment • Crafts • Seminars & information • Financial tips & advice • Health checks • Gardening • Park & holidays homes • Keep fit sessions • Dance floor • Prize quiz • Fashion show • Cookery demonstrations • Holidays & travel • Have-a-go dancing and a wide range of exhibition stands!

www.50plusShow.com REGISTER ONLINE NOW or CALL THE FREE TICKET HOTLINE ON 01372 8409 63 For exhibiting enquiries, please call 01372 743 837