Northallerton infocus Winter issue

winter

2010

Merry

Christmas

from us!

welcome

to the Winter issue of

Northallerton infocus

5 feature: MBA in a Nutshell Part II 6-7 LOCAL NEWS: New Businesses in Northallerton 9 LOCAL NEWS: Going from Strength to Strength 14-15 Christmas Activities for Children 16 feature: Christmas around our Market Towns 18-19 LOCAL NEWS: Winter Christmas Events 20 feature: Vets Warn of Christmas Stress 22 Winter Gardening Diary 26 feature: State of the Art Cancer Treatment 30 COMPETITION TIME 32-33 At Your Fingertips 34 infocus Production Details

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I hope that you enjoy this edition of Northallerton infocus and I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

Best wishes, t: 01609 777401 www.jkanorth.com

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An MBA in a Nutshell: Business Ethics - Part II : The Environment for Business Research shows - Businesses, big and small, add to the pollution of the earth, air and water; the depletion of natural resources for future generations and creation of land-fill waste which increases greenhouse gas emissions. Increased Greenhouse gases like methane from landfills, and carbon dioxide from deforestation and the burning of fuels for energy, create global warming and climate change.

Here’s how you as a business can do your bit for the Environment and our future: Waste Management & Recycling (can also save 4% of annual turnover!)

Non-biodegradable waste goes to landfills somewhere on earth, increasing methane emissions. Electronic waste with mercury and other toxins is also a growing problem. When possible, purchase products made from recycled materials, segregate your rubbish and recycle everything you can. Keep electronics for as long as you can, then recycle or donate them. Recycling one toner cartridge will keep approximately 2.5 pounds of metal and plastic out of landfills and conserve about a half gallon of oil. Inform your employees about what can and can’t be recycled.

Transportation, Purchasing & Conservation Consider options for online storing, posting and updating of documents and manuals. Think of emails instead of fax. Get printers and fax machines with options for duplex printing (prints on both sides of the paper), lower print quality, and using lower melting point inks. Switch to Fair Trade, organic and local products. Buy furniture, carpeting and paint that are free of volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) and toxic chemicals. Put a plant in every room to absorb indoor pollution.

Encourage public transport, videoconferencing and technological solutions to reduce the amount of employee travel. Install a water diffuser in your taps to save water. A dripping tap can cost you £400 a year!

To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

Peter Tarren For business planning and tax advice call Peter on: 0845 330 0451 or email him at: p.tarren@euraaudituk.com or drop in at: 87 South Parade, Northallerton Energy Conservation to reduce Carbon Emissions (your ‘Carbon Footprint’) and energy bills Office equipment policies should include enabling energy saving features on all equipment, switching off computers after work, putting PC’s on standby mode (screensavers don’t conserve energy) and plug-in 7 day timers for printers, if need be.

When replacing equipment, check energy efficiency ratings – Energy Star Models for computers, monitors, printers and fax machines use up to 70% less electricity and have the capability for duplex printing. When needed, replace kitchen and digital display equipment with European Ecolabel Scheme or ‘Energy Saving Recommended’ branded products.

Switch to energy-saving light-bulbs. It’s worth noting laptops use 10% of the energy of desktops, flat screen monitors use less energy by two thirds, photocopiers use most energy but digital photocopiers use less (and require less maintenance). Turning your thermostat down one degree can save 8% on your heating bill.

Position equipment in cool places, implement a good maintenance schedule and prevent overheating by cleaning equipment filters and fans regularly.

The Government has introduced incentives for renewable heat deployment and interest free energy efficient loans. New green legislation is mandatory for commercial buildings from 2016 – businesses that own property, especially property dealers, should plan ahead – talk to your accountant for further details.

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New to Nor Northallerton

New and exciting businesses come to the

New Businesses we’re introducing: • Silverdale • ‘well heeled’ • Cover to Cover • Hill Brothers Funeral Directors

Browse the Greats in Garthway Arcade Stuart McKay, the owner of Cover To Cover Bookshop, is proud to have opened his new Independent Bookshop in Garthway Arcade in September 2010.

He would like to thank all Customers who have supported the bookshop to date and looks forward to welcoming all new Customers in the future.

Stuart comments: “The bookshop offers a very wide range of brand new, carefully selected books intended to suit all tastes plus the flexibility of my being able to order specific titles for Customers with a fast delivery.

The Local Books Section and the large Pre-School and Childrens’ Department have been extended to cope with demand, the latter now also including a very comprehensive Childrens’ Reference Section.”

Stuart adds: “Garthway Arcade is now a thriving gem of an arcade just off the high street in Northallerton with a wide variety of fellow retailers providing high quality goods and services. Pay us a visit next time you are in town - you will not be disappointed!”

New Jewellers for Garthway Arcade Silverdale, next to the market cross in Bedale, should by now have opened their second jewellery shop in Garthway Arcade. I say ‘should’ have opened, as there have already been some delays to their original planned opening of 11th October.

Angela Shevels, who started Silverdale nearly eight years ago said “Once we took the new shop over on 4th October , we realised that our plan of using the shop as it was until after Christmas and re-vamping it then was not possible, so we decided on the spot to take a few weeks and alter it completely from the start rather than wait till January. October is usually a quiet month anyway, so it made sense to do the messy things sooner rather than later.”

It turned out to be the right decision too, as Angela found out at the same time that she had a serious illness, and the uncertainties about this extended the time taken to do the alterations, delaying the opening further.

However, 2 Garthway Arcade now has a brand new modern and relaxing interior, with beautiful ranges of silver jewellery for men, women and children.

Angela says “The timing of things couldn’t have been worse, but I’m determined to achieve our aim of providing an excellent choice of top designer silver jewellery and watches in Northallerton. We will continue the tradition of good service provided by Mr and Mrs Peacock for over 30 years and maintain their valued repair service, but we also want to attract new customers to Garthway Arcade with exciting and unusual jewellery, with something for most tastes and pockets.”

We hope customers past and present, of Garthway Galleries and Silverdale, will visit Silverdale Galleries. Contact numbers are; 01609 775883 or the Bedale shop on: 01677 427222.

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rthallerton

e

area this Winter

To feature within this section of Northallerton please contact us on: 01609 777401

infocus

You can also email: Christine@jkanorth.com or visit our website at: www.jkanorth.com

A Caring, Family Run Business Hill Brothers Ltd. is truly a family run business with traditional, old-fashioned family values.

Originally established in Thirsk, by Jeffrey and Richard Hill, over 10 years ago, they opened their Northallerton branch in May of this year.

Mum, Rita, has worked in the Thirsk office for the last seven years, and Dad, Peter, along with eldest daughter, Anita, are now working in the Northallerton office. In fact Anita, with her artistic flair, has arranged and organised the soft furnishings in both offices.

The whole family are dedicated to providing the kind of funeral service that everyone would wish for their loved one; they know how vital their empathetic and professional support is to families at such a sad time.

They offer a 24hour service, private rest rooms, floral tributes by arrangement and Golden Charter, pre-payment plans are available. As well as traditional coffins, they also offer willow and the new Swaledale woollen coffins for those who wish to take into account environmental concerns.

MORE THAN JUST A SHOE SHOP ‘well heeled’, the new ladies’ shoe boutique in Kirkgate, Thirsk, opened its doors in August this year.

Jane Jackson, the owner, having previously worked in wholesale banking for Lloyds Bank, where she looked after accounts within the motor industry, and previous to that worked as the business manager for Mercedes Benz, decided to take voluntary redundancy after a health scare earlier on in the year.

This health scare made Jane re-evaluate her outlook on life and re-assess her priorities: as she had always had a passion, verging on obsession, for beautiful shoes, she felt that now was the right time to follow her dream of opening her own shoe boutique; and so, with the unstinting support of her husband David, from a local farming family, who was born and bred in Thirsk and who is related to Joanna Jackson who owns ‘Peaches Boutique’, she realised her dreams and opened ‘well heeled’. ‘well heeled’ is more than just a shoe shop, it offers something extra special for the ladies of the area. With a lovely ambience it is the perfect place to browse and find those elegant, but very wearable shoes and boots by German, Spanish and Italian designers.

Jane also stocks Ochre Cashmere and beaded cardigans as well as accessories to suit everybody’s taste and price range; these accessories make the ideal gift, or are just perfect for a personal treat. ‘well heeled’ and ‘Peaches Boutique’ in Thirsk will be open for late night Christmas shopping on: Thursday 9 December, Thursday, 16 December and Thursday 23 December, 09.00hrs to 20.00hrs

To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

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Local business goes from strength to strength Having begun trading in 2007, local business Phlebotomy Training Services Ltd. have gone from strength to strength. Phlebotomy Training Services was established by Alison Purkiss, a local phlebotomist with a Certificate in Education. She felt that there was insufficient training for phlebotomists and chose to do something about it – and PTS was born.

The local business has also helped the local area with it’s success.

When Arla Creamery closed earlier this year, PTS provided government funded training to ten of their recently made redundant employees. PTS are also registered with the Department of Work and Pensions and as a result regularly provide funded training to the unemployed, both in the local area, and nationally.

Alison wrote one of the first accredited courses for basic and advanced phlebotomy in the country. Since it’s beginnings, Alison and her ten tutors have trained in excess of 3000 people, with 95% of people passing the courses, and obtaining certification from the accrediting body Open College Network North East Region.

Not only do the company train the general public, they have also delivered a range of bespoke courses to corporate clients, including Manchester Metropolitan University, DRC Locums, BMI Healthcare and Cambridge Medical Innovations.

OCNNER work closely with Phlebotomy Training Services Ltd. to ensure that the standards of training that are provided are as high as possible – assisting with the companies aim to create highly skilled phlebotomists to send out into the workplace.

Last year, Phlebotomy Training Services Ltd. moved into new premises at Evolution Business Centre and since then, business couldn’t have been better. The company now train in 15 cities nationwide, including London, Manchester and Birmingham, and run at least two courses most weekends.

And progressions aren’t stopping there for PTS – they’re now able to offer new courses, covering Health and Safety in the Workplace, First Aid and Movement and Handling.

Phlebotomy Training Services Ltd. is located at Suite 21, Evolution Business Centre, Northallerton DL6 2NQ For more information, or to review upcoming course dates, please see the website at: www.phlebotomytraining.co.uk

To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

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SKIN

MA KE -UP MA S TE R C L ASS

- A fresh face is your canvas so cleanse skin twice if necessary to remove every trace of dirt. A mini massage when applying your moisturiser will flood cells with vital nutrients for a glowing complexion.

- Maximise your Base by preparing your skin first with Retexturising Face Primer, For parties I recommend the Daniel Sandler Primer(1) (£20) which gives skin a satin matte finish and helps foundation stay the distance.

- Winter skin tends to be drier, and more prone to redness try Catwalk Compact(2) (£21.00). The Crème-ina-compact foundation leaves a smooth matte finish and has setting properties of a powder. Coverage is buildable, from moderate to high for a flawless party complexion.

V I C T OR I A L EES

CHEEKS

- I love products that multitask! My favourite product is a flat matte taupe eyeshadow in Cedar(4) (£10) I use it as the midtone colour to contour eyes, with an angled brow brush to groom brows and best of all to achieve a sexy, sultry contoured cheek, to find the hollows of your cheek pretend to whistle then brush the Cedar or any flat taupe powder in to the hollows, then smile and brush a little warm pink onto the apples of your cheeks then with a clean fluffy blusher brush blend until the colours are seamless.

LIPS

EYES

- Tis the season for bold lipcolour!

Berry shades were all over the catwalk for this season, but be sure to keep your lips nourished as this is not a good look on dry chapped lips.

- For a long lasting berry pout fill in the pink of your lips with a berry lip pencil, then follow with a seasonal berry lipstick. I used Luxury Lipstick(5) (£13.00) in Orchid; a hydrating, longlasting, glamorous lip colour which glides on effortlessly. If Matte lips feel a little alien to you, dab a little balm or gloss in the centre of the mouth for a perfect party pout.

- To help eyeshadow stay on longer and blend effortlessly, dust your eye lids with a little loose powder before applying any colour - Three shades are all you need for beautiful eyes; a highlighter, a mid-tone and a dark shade for accentuating eye shape - Apply the lightest shade over the lid up to the brow as a base. The mid-tone then goes in the socket and under the eye close to the lashes and slightly blended out and up towards the temple area. Then the darkest shade is applied close to the upper and lower lash line.

- Finish with a super glossy black mascara; Daniel’s Jumbo Jet Mascara(3) is just the thing. If you slightly wiggle the mascara brush from the lash root to tip you’ll make lashes look thicker and longer.

All products available through Victoria Lees email Victoria at victoria.lees@danielsandler. com or call 07921 398370

Dazzle

£5 off

on the dancefloor!

Christmas party makeup session with Victoria Lees

The Christmas party season is creeping up fast, follow Northallerton Makeup Artist Terms and conditions: Victoria Lees tips for looking flawless and fabulous.

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Voucher expires: 31.12.10 Makeup sessions are available in Toni&Guy Northallerton on Wednesdays and Thursdays (normal price £30) or in the comfort of your own home (normal price £35) travel costs at 40 pence per mile apply if outside a 10 mile radius of Northallerton (DL7 8PP)

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Photography by Gillian at www.theimageboutique.co.uk Model Katie Hunter at Model Mayhem.

Makeup Victoria Lees at www.victoria-lees.co.uk using Daniel Sandler Cosmetics To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

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We would like to invite you to make a donation to dedicate a bauble on our Christmas Tree Of Hope supporting Butterwick House Children’s Hospice. Charity Number 1044816 Butterwick House Children’s Hospice provides day, respite and end of life care, family support, complementary therapies and bereavement care to families from North Yorkshire, Country Durham, Teesside and Wearside.

The tree and book of messages will be on display in the Hambleton Forum, Northallerton from 3rd December.

Alternatively you can make cheques payable to: Northallerton & District Lioness Club (ANT) and post to: 14 Richmond Rise, Northallerton, DL7 8JR.

Butterwick House is located in Stockton-on-Tees in the North East of England.

The Hospice provides care and support free of charge to children with life limiting illnesses from birth to 18 years of age and supports their families.

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Butterwick House is staffed by skilled and experienced professionals and trained volunteers. We work in partnership with families and other professionals involved in each child’s care. At Butterwick House the focus is on each child enjoying their stay while family members take a break from round the clock caring responsibilities.

Butterwick House has four bright, colourful bedrooms that open out on to the multisensory garden. Each room can be personalised to the child that is staying at the time. The Hospice has a large day room which has its own kitchen facilities where children can bake if they wish. There is a large selection of play equipment, computers and a large screen TV where the children can watch their favourite movies or play computer games.

The special hydrotherapy pool is a big hit with children and parents alike. The warm temperature of the water and the shallow pools give parents the opportunity to spend time in the pool with their children. The Hospice has a qualified physiotherapist who can advise nurses and parents how to help the children relax their muscles through gentle exercises in the warm water.

For more information please visit: www.butterwick.org.uk Sponsored by Maxwells, Northallerton. Tel: 01609 773535

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CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES FOR Are you looking for ideas to keep your children’s minds occupied during the winter months?

The Internet is an amazing educational tool that can offer ideas to captivate the minds of all. The ideas from the list of websites opposite are too many to mention and would fill many pages of this magazine.

Please visit them and you will be surprised how captivated you and your youngsters will become.

To start the season’s entertainment encourage your youngsters to attempt the Christmas crossword puzzle which is taken from www.dltk-holidays.com. A word list is added to assist the very young and, if you are like me at solving crosswords, the not so young.

I wish you all a Happy Festive Season.

John Harris 2

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Across 1 Pretty baubles to hang on the Christmas tree 3 Guardians who announce the good news 6 Wrapped with love 7 Jolly old Saint 8 Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, and Blitzen 9 Warm snacks for Santa 11 Sweet and red and white 12 We wish you a Merry

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Cupid, Donner,

Down 2 Keeper of the flocks 4 House made of sweet treats 5 The were hung by the chimney with care 10 Bright light marks the way

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THE CHILDREN Websites offering free activities for children • www.dltk-holidays.com • www.christianfreebies.com • www.thekidzpage.com • www.allfreecrafts.com • www.mes-english.com • www.northpole.com • www.holidays.kaboose.com See p34 for the crossword answers.

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Word list: Angels, Candycane, Christmas, Comet, Cookies, Gingerbread, Nicholas, Ornaments, Presents, Shepherd, Star, Stockings

Wensleydale Railway Santa Specials 4th & 5th, 11th & 12th and 18th – 24th December inclusive Most trains from Leeming Bar station but there will be some trains running between Leyburn and Redmire.

All seats must be booked.

www.wensleydalerailway.com Travel with Santa

Tel: 08454 50 54 74

from Leeming Bar!

To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

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Christmas around our market towns Northallerton Friday 26th november

• Christmas Late Night Shopping • Official switch on of the lights on the Christmas Tree on the Town Hall at 6pm • Arrival of Father Christmas at Barkers at 6:30 pm • A free children’s disco will be held in the Town Hall between 7pm and 9pm and Seasonal Refreshments will be provided.

Thirsk

Sunday 28th november

• Christmas Lights switched on at 4pm • Christmas Fair at The Golden Fleece Hotel • 12-6pm free admission • Brass Band

Masham

Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th december • Victorian Fair

A full weekend of festive Victorian fun. Including stall-holders and shop staff in period costumes, a craft fair in the Town Hall and a Bishop Baizes procession from Maple Creek to the Town Hall after dark. Selected shops will also be taking part in the window dressing competition (won for the past 2 years by ‘The Cutting Room!’)

For further details contact David Airton on 07840 446599

Ripon

Friday 26th november • Christmas Lights Switch-on

Takes place on the Market Square, 6:00 pm. Join Father Christmas in the fun and take advantage of late night shopping as the shops will remain open until late.

For further details contact 01765 601100

Saturday 18th december • Christmas Spectacular

Ripon City Band and Community Choirs join in the magnificent surroundings of Ripon Cathedral in an evening of spectacular music, 7:30 pm. Tickets will be available from mid November.

For further details contact 01765 601100

Friday 31st december Bring the New Year in with the annual Watchnight and candle light parade to the market square for fireworks at midnight.

For further details contact 01765 601100

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Winter &

4th December

Alverton singers present their Christmas Concert, an evening of choral music for the festive season at the Town Hall Northallerton from 7.30pm.

Tickets available at Greensleeves, Central Arcade, Northallerton or at the door.

Duncan Wallace: 07712 140477 or Phyllis Wallace: 01609 776890 e: enquiry@alvertonsingers.org.uk w: www.alvertonsingers.org.uk

20th November

Church Service and Parade of the Illuminated Address

• Christmas Gift & Food Fair – Ripon Cathedral Over 60 stalls of food and seasonal gifts, Santa’s Grotto, turkey sandwiches and refreshments throughout the day. 10:00am - 4:00pm Entry £2.50 on the door.

For more information, please call 01765 602072 or visit www.riponcathedral.org.uk ...............................................................................................................

28th November, 1 - 3pm This Church Service will be held at All Saints Parish Church and will be followed by a Parade of service personnel from RAF Leeming from the Church along the length of the High St. to Romanby Rd.

1st - 4th December • White Rose Winter Festival – Ripley Castle The event presents a sought after combination of heritage, culture, and hospitality with the very best opera, dance, classical and exciting musical entertainment over the 4 nights and 1 matinee show.

The Castle’s courtyard will be transformed into a magical auditorium with seating for 1, 600 people (all under cover and carpeted throughout), fully heated with a range of winter treats on offer; a winter bar, festive food and drink outlets and festive cheer throughout!

Please note that seats will be allocated on a first come, first serve basis and according to the ticket category.

For more information on this event, please visit www.whiterosefestivals. com or call 01423 563 563. ...............................................................................................................

3rd December • Christmas Concert The Carol Andrew Singers Northallerton Methodist Church from 7.30pm for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Tickets £6 available from Greensleeves Music Shop, telephone 01609 772620, or from Northallerton Methodist Church Coffee Pot Café (Wednesday & Saturday 10am-12noon). Tickets will also be available on the door. All are welcome.

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Christmas EVENTS

1st - 5th December • Lightwater Shopping Village Dickensian Festival 10:00am – 5:00pm every day. Free Entry & Free Parking With over 75 stalls selling a huge range of high quality contemporary and traditional merchandise, why not come along and soak up the enchanting atmosphere.

With so many festivities in one place, it’s no wonder that our Dickensian Festival was short-listed for a White Rose Award!

For more information, call 0871 720 0011 or visit the website at: www.lightwatervalley.co.uk ...............................................................................................................

4th December • Christmas Cake Decorating Demonstration On Saturday 4th December, from 10.00 til 15.00 there will be a demonstration at Faerie Delights, 21b Mill Bank, Thirsk, YO7 1AA on how to decorate your Christmas cake and how to make decorations by using icing. The demonstration will be free and a small charge will be made if you would like to produce your own decoration.

The cake and decorations produced by Paul Jephcott will be used to raise funds for Help the Heroes Fund. Please support this good cause.

Phone: 01845 574636 ................................................................................................................

3rd - 5th December • ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ – Kiplin Hall An interpretation of those well-known gifts and their meanings. Twelve rooms of beautiful Christmas decorations created by the Friends and Volunteers of Kiplin Hall and local groups using fresh flowers and greenery.

Decorative theme and Christmas activities for children.

Christmas Shop – unusual gifts, original artwork and prints, crafts, stocking fillers and cards. Tea Room – cakes, scones, and festive goodies. Adult £6, Child £3, Concession £5, Family (2+3) £17. ...............................................................................................................

11th - 12th December • Victorian Fair – Masham A full weekend of festive Victorian fun; including stallholders and shop staff in period costumes, a craft fair in the Town Hall and a Bishop Baizes procession from Maple Creek to the Town Hall after dark. Selected shops will also be taking part in the window dressing competition (won for the past 2 years by ‘The Cutting Room’!). For further details, contact David Airton on 07840 446599

To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

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Vets warn of Christmas Stress Veterinary surgeon Iain Booth of VetUK warns pet owners to look out for symptoms of stress in their animals during the Christmas festivities.

As sensitive as we are to the excitement of the season, pets often pick up on our own stress levels and begin to manifest behaviour which is different from usual. Just like over-excited children, animals can become unusually emotional and are particularly sensitive to the increased number of visitors on their territory and greater noise levels.

Even the run-up to the holiday season can itself create heightened tension in pets as well as family members. Changes to their routine or their physical home environment and its smells – such as Christmas trees and decorations can be distressing to susceptible pets. Iain advises owners to look for indications that an animal is stressed including trembling, changes in eating habits, being abnormally vocal, and being nervous. He explains “Prevention is better than cure and we recommend simple measures that pet owners can take to help their animals through the festivities. Pheromonatherapy is an increasingly popular solution which is inexpensive and readily accessible online.”

Suitable for any standard plug socket, plug-in diffusers slowly release a pacifying pheromone which helps to calm the animal and help to cure chronic and often destructive behavioural problems. Undetectable to humans, diffuser units for dogs help with separation anxiety, barking, whining, house soiling and excessive licking. They are also helpful in settling in new puppies by recreating the scent of the mother.

Similarly, cats benefit from a feline facial pheromone, which mimics the cat’s natural pheromones, creating a reassuring environment and stopping such problems as scratching, excessive grooming and urine spraying. The diffuser unit’s pheromone can be replaced as required, with refills lasting 4-5 weeks. Pheromone collars are another alternative.

“We recommend pet owners using pheromone therapy for the first time introduce diffusers or collars a week before the Christmas festivities to allow the pheromone to build up to significant levels and to create a relaxing state before, during and after Christmas.” adds Iain Booth.

More information about pheromonatherapy treatments is available at www.vetuk.co.uk The Perfect Pet Prezzie? If you are looking for the perfect prezzie for your pet, then how about a Compare the Meerkat?

– just £4.56 online from VetUK – this cuddly Meerkat is super squeaky fun for your dog!

Remember Space Hoppers? Well this is a Space Lobber – a fantastic durable latex with a unique squeaker and ergonomic grab handles for easy throwing and fetch fun for your dog. Just £4.17 online from VetUK For more pet gift ideas, have a browse of the Dog and Cat Accessories on the Vetuk website at: www.vetuk.co.uk

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Winter

Gardening Diary

Winter jobs and Yule Time Safety

December is the time to take a step back from your garden, and to replan any parts that you are not happy with. New beds can be dug if the weather permits, of course. Paths can be laid and wooden constructions can be mended and treated.

- Cover tender rock garden plants with glass to protect them from frost damage and to stop them from getting excessively wet.

When you put up Christmas lights over the festive period be sure to follow these Christmas light safety tips.

- Bring in any roses planted in pots .

Now is the time to:

- Buds of Jasminum nudiflorum can also be brought indoors as soon as they appear, pop them into water to help them to open before Christmas.

- Inspect your lights before use and ensure they meet current safety standards – check they have a ‘CE’ mark or kite mark.

- Give the lawn a final rake and spike it to give aeration.

- Reconstruct your rock garden if you wish.

- Do NOT lay concrete in the frost, or if frost is forecast.

- Prepare window boxes with fresh soil and plant with wallflowers or winter flowering pansies.

- Improve soil by digging in humus-forming materials (manure).

- Take cuttings of Perpetual flowering Carnations and Chrysanthemums.

Also don’t forget to: - Protect any tender plants from hard frosts.

- Cover delicate wall shrubs or climbers.

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Keeping Safe at Christmas - Christmas lights are beautiful and much safer than candles, but all that electricity can cause problems if not used properly. Christmas lights can get hot enough to burn or ignite other decorations.

The cords can fray, leading to a short. Decorating with lights often requires the use of a ladder, and improper use could lead to an injury. Practice ladder safety when you are putting up Christmas lights.

- Discard any set with cracked or broken sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections.

- Verify that all strings designated for outdoor use are weatherproofed and if an extension lead is required make sure that the junction is thoroughly water proofed and kept off the ground.

- Try to use the c o o l e r- b u r n i n g “mini” Christmas lights or the new LED lights as they are safer and more energy efficient.

- Ensure Christmas lights have fuses in the plugs and outdoor lights are plugged into a RCD safety outlet.

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Power up your Pension If it had a different name would it get more attention?

Although pensions are a tax efficient way of saving for retirement, the topic is often at the bottom of most people’s to-do list.

If you are currently saving into a pension or if you have some old pension pots that you are not sure what they are worth, here are some questions that you should think about.

• Am I saving enough into my pension?

• Are my pensions going to give me the income I need when I retire?

• Is my pension fund (or funds) invested in line with my risk appetite?

These questions are inter-related and it is only by looking holistically at your pensions that you can understand where you currently are and come up with a strategy to get you to where you want to be.

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Am I saving enough into my pension?

Are my pensions going to give me the income I need when I retire?

To answer these questions you need to think about when you would like to retire and how much income you will need when you retire.

Often the State Pension benefits will be paid later. By thinking about these and what you can afford to contribute you can begin to answer these questions.

It’s worth giving your pensions some attention as they will be important in helping you live the lifestyle you want in retirement.

Will Mowatt finds pensions interesting and would be very happy to help you develop a strategy to power up your pension!

Is my pension fund (or funds) invested in line with my risk appetite?

If you are in a defined contribution company pension or if you have several old pensions, the answer might be no. In which case it makes sense to align your investment strategy with your risk appetite. If you have several pension pots it can often make sense to consolidate them to make it easier to follow one investment strategy and there can often be cost benefits as well.

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Local patient opens state of the art cancer treatment facility Cancer patients across the Tees Valley and other parts of the North East can now benefit from advanced radiotherapy treatment. A £2.5million TomoTherapy Hi-ART® machine is now up and running at The James Cook University Hospital, making us the third NHS hospital in the UK to treat cancer patients with this technology.

“It’s the start of an exceptionally exciting time for the development of radiotherapy and oncology services at the trust – building work on the new state-of-the-art radiotherapy is also well underway on site, thanks to the support of our primary care colleagues and the North of England Cancer Network.”

The treatment, first used on patients in the USA in July 2003, combines a CT scanner with a high energy x-ray treatment beam that more accurately targets the tumour and normal organs immediately before treatment.

To date, more than 26 patients have received treatment on TomoTherapy which has been operational since June.

It also allows an unprecedented level of accuracy in how it delivers the radiation to the body, enabling complex shaped tumours to be precisely targeted by radiation whilst minimising the radiation received by normal organs, which, in turn, reduces radiation side effects and long term complications from treatment.

One of the first patients to have their treatment on the machine was invited to the hospital to perform the opening ceremony and was be joined by the radiotherapy/oncology team and representatives from Oncology System Limited which supplied the state-of-the-art kit.

Grandad-of-five Victor Chivers, 65, from Thirsk was the first prostate cancer patient to benefit from TomoTherapy treatment at the hospital.

Clinical director of radiotherapy and oncology Dr Peter Dunlop said: “This is one of the most advanced types of radiotherapy machine available and means we can more accurately target patients’ tumours.

“We have found the operation is smooth and treatments are comfortable for patients because they are often quicker than with the conventional equipment, especially in complex head and neck cases, although this type of treatment will not be suitable for everyone.

A WINNING FUND RAISING EFFORT WHEN five-year-old Alicia Theaker was given an insulin pump it transformed her life and inspired her parents to raise more than £1,500 for the children’s diabetes team at The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.

Rachael and Paul Theaker held a charity cricket match in their home town of Staithes with a team of women dressed in tutus taking on the men (and winning!).

It was last Christmas Eve when Alicia was diagnosed with diabetes. She had been very excited about the festivities but then suddenly became very lethargic and started drinking lots more water than usual.

The Seaton County Primary School pupil spent Christmas in James Cook and once allowed home had to have as many as five insulin injections a day.

But in May she was fitted with her own insulin pump which she carries around in a special pouch in her vest.

“It’s brilliant, it’s changed her life,” said Rachael, who can now control how much insulin Alicia receives using a special remote control.

“With this she can eat anything as long as we can work out the carbohydrates in it and we don’t have to keep disturbing her to give her

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Clinical advisor and director at Oncology Systems, Julie Mead, added: “The whole oncology team, with the support from trust management, has worked hard to secure this new technology for the people of the North East of England. Now with its TomoTherapy system in place, James Cook has become a leader in the UK NHS with the ability to offer world class radiotherapy for its patients.”

The radiotherapy and oncology service delivers an integrated service to a population of approximately one million, extending through Teesside, South Durham and North Yorkshire.

Currently the hospital offers 41,100 treatment sessions for radiotherapy (known in medical terms as fractions) but the figure is increasing year-onyear.

injections. She’s just like a normal fiveyear-old now.”

“When we got the pump we found out it cost £3,000 and we saw how much it changed her life and we thought it would be nice to give something back.”

The charity cricket match, together with a raffle and a race night, raised £1,552.56 for the children’s diabetes team.

Rachael and Paul, who also have a son Lucas, two, said they would like some of the money raised to go towards more diabetes fun days at the hospital to give children plenty of opportunities to meet others with the condition.

Kelly Rowe, specialist nurse for children and young people with diabetes, said: “This really is an impressive amount to raise and we would like to say a big thank you to Rachael and Paul and everyone who supported their fund raising efforts.”

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Yorkshire Sky The

Is there life out there?

It was in 1992 that astronomers first detected a planet orbiting a star other than our Sun; these planets are referred to as exoplanets. 492 exoplanets have now been discovered. Recent explorations by astronomers have now discovered a planet with 3 times the mass of Earth orbiting a nearby star at a distance comparable to the Earth’s from the Sun. This newly discovered exoplanet is called Gliese 581g and it has created a buzz of excitement, because it means that there is a possibility that it could be habitable.

By this it does not necessarily mean a place where humans live, but one where an atmosphere and water may be present, thus encouraging plant and micro biotic life to prosper.

But the most interesting thing about this planet is how close it is to Earth: just 20 light-years away which by astronomical distances is relatively small.

Other interesting facts Gliese 581g include:

about

• It has a 37 day orbit • It is gravitationally locked to the star and as a consequence, one side is permanently in the light of its star and the other is permanently dark.

• Its mass is 3 to 4 times that of the Earth. This means its gravity is somewhat greater than what we experience but it would not crush us.

• Its diameter is 1.2 to 1.4 times greater than the Earth.

Astronomers are expecting to discover many more “habitable” planets, so the debate of extrasolar life gains momentum.

DIARY November 17th/18th - Leonids Meteor Shower The Leonids is one of the better meteor showers to observe, producing an average of 40 meteors per hour at their peak. You may see some meteors either side of these dates, from November 13th to 20th. Look for the shower radiating from the constellation Leo after midnight.

December 13th /14th- Geminids Meteor Shower Considered by many to be the most reliable meteor shower of the year, the Geminids are known for producing a multicoloured display 65% white, 26% yellow and the remaining 9% blue, red and green. You may see some meteors either side of these dates, from December 6th to December 19th. The radiant point for this shower will be in the constellation Gemini.

December 21st - The Winter Solstice occurs in the northern hemisphere at 23:38 hours. The Sun is at its lowest point in the sky and it will be the shortest day of the year. This is also the first day of winter.

Friarage Scoutlink started thanks to the volunteers from the Children’s Ward at the Friarage Hospital and Scout Leaders in Northallerton District. The idea to run a Scout Group for children with mixed abilities was born in December 2002.

The Community Nursing Service and the Children’s Ward at the Friarage Hospital join forces at Christmas to provide a fun party for children and their relatives who receive regulars input for either service.

At a Christmas party and having a Scouting background in Middlesbrough, Steven Brown, one of the unit nurses, felt that we should offer this service on a regular basis. Thus the idea of Scoutlink was born.

In discussion with the Ward !

Manager, Rosie Mohan, we felt that we needed support from the two special schools, Mowbray and Dales, and from Clare Welford and Mary Durrans, the Community Nurses. Soon we were gaining support from both the parents and from the Scout District and so the first meeting was held on 5th April 2003.

At present we have 18 children with varied disabilities aged between 6 and 12.Programme planning in the group takes places 6 months in advance, accompanied by a yearly plan, due to the fact that the group meets the 1st Monday in the month at the Hambleton Forum.

Why is 2nd Northallerton (Scoutlink) different?

The aim of the group is to enable children who may not adapt into a regular Scout group enjoy what Scouting has to offer. At Scoutlink we aim to run Scouting activities suitable for all children particularly those with any special needs. We do not have separate Beaver and Cub Sections so we wear a red shirt and use a mixture themes from the Beaver and Cub sections.

Each programme is designed primarily for participation and involvement, it is also much more about young people having a go rather than passing tests or achieving a particular standard. It can therefore be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for any young person whatever their ability.

Below is a Star Map to assist in viewing the Leonids and Geminids meteor showers Note: (1) Leo will be towards the North East. (2) Gemini will be in the South East at midnight on 13 December.

(3) Locating Orion first, will help in easier identification of Leo and Gemini.

John Harris

The Christmas party way back in December 2002 seems a long and distant memory but it is where the idea for Scoutlink was born!

Our regular meetings have seen us grow in numbers from eight at our first meeting to eighteen at our last, with activities ranging from Lion Face Masks to Rounders in the Park.

Images courtesy of NASA Images

Due to the fact that we are part of the Scout Association we must abide by their rules which encompass a Child Protection policy and the requirement for all helpers and leaders to undergo a Criminal Records Bureau check on joining the group and on any change in job role.

Thank you for your time and interest in our Special Scout Group.

Simon Hickling Assistant Group Scout Leader The sky looking East at midnight on 17 November.

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!

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“Floating Ghost stairs” How do they do that?

So often on house renovation or grand design programmes you see stairs apparently floating out of the wall without any support.

Well really they don’t float but instead use well engineered minimal components, mainly consisting of a very strong steel structure bolted securely to the brickwork of the wall. This provides the strength necessary to hold the steps and the glass balustrade.

After attaching the steel to the wall this is then plastered over leaving just the steel supports for the steps protruding. At this stage the small step lights are fitted into the plaster for later.

Next stage is to fit the steps onto the steel sup-

ports and the glass balustrade is mounted to the steelwork with concealed fittings. The final stage is to fit the external wood blocks to the outside of the balustrade.

The end result—steps seemingly coming out of the wall and running straight through the glass balustrade. The Ghost stairs give a light airy feel to any room with their stunning design.

At Stairs and More we specialise in working with the style and layout of the property to reach the best staircase solution for any type of development contemporary or classic straight or spiral.

For further details have a look at our website: www.stairsandmore.co.uk or speak to Steve Dunn on 01845 577200.

Darlington Civic Theatre is giving away a family ticket for this year’s pantomime, Peter Pan, for Thursday, 9 December at 7pm Leading icon of British pop music and entertainment, David Essex, stars as Captain Hook alongside Darlington favourites, comedy duo The Grumbleweeds, as Smee and Starkey in our swashbuckling panto adventure Peter Pan. An abundance of comedy, fabulous sets and costumes and stunning flying sequences make Peter Pan another must-see Civic Theatre pantomime.

For your chance to win a family ticket just answer the question below and send your entry together with name, address and telephone number to: Peter Pan InFocus Competition Marketing Dept.

Darlington Arts Centre, Vane Terrace, Darlington DL3 7AX

Competition

Peter Pan runs from Saturday 4 December 2010 to Sunday 16 January, tickets are from £12.50 - £20 with group offers and discounts available at selected performances.

Q) What is the name of this year’s pantomime?

Entries must arrive by Friday, 3 December

Tickets are available from the Box Office on 01325 486555 or online at: www.darlingtonarts.co.uk

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at your finger tips YOUR MONEY SAVING LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY We can save you money and help you reach 43,600 potential customers each quarter.

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