Town & Village Life Magazine - March/April 2017

TOWn & VILLAGE LIFE Magazine

March/April 2017

Win a meal for two people at Wombourne Tandoori and arrive in style with Signature Luxury Cars

TOWN & VILLAG E LIFE MA GA Z INE

Win a Fantastic Hair Maker-over with Jon Kevan Win tickets to see Sunny Afternoon at The Grand Theatre

March/April 2017

Delivered to areas of: Hagley, West Hagley, Stourbridge, Pedmore, Oldswinford, Norton, Wollaston, Amblecote, Wordsley, Kingswinford, Lawnswood, Wall Heath, Kinver, Bobbington, Heathton, Stourton, Enville, Swindon, Himley and Sedgley

Local Magazine delivered to 16,000 Selected Homes and Businesses

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

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Hello Readers, Time flies dear readers! Another spring is upon us and I’m feeling nostalgic. It seems like only yesterday since, fresh from the success of sister publication Wolverhampton West, the very first edition of Town & Village Life emerged five years ago.

Much change has taken place thereafter, but there’s always been an overarching sense of consistency and stability. My partner Gisella and I (a Stourbridge lad, born and bred) are still here at the helm and the magazine is as popular with readers and effective with advertisers as ever.

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It’s spring so obviously your thoughts are turning towards your home. If so, you’ll love reading all about our plethora of plenty comprising all the latest in home renovation, refurbishment and rejuvenation. Then there’s your garden. Outdoor living is where it’s at right now, so read inside about gardening, fencing, and our profile of Ann Winwood, Director of Lealans Garden Centre.

Mother’s Day is important too so check out treats from Wollaston Beauty Clinic and fashion ideas from Aristocats. If you are going for a meal out, look out for Kinver’s newcomer, Harleys Smokehouse. We’ve even got the word on where you young mums should be sending your children to school, in our stellar guide to local education.

Add in a few articles on health and we hope you’ll agree we’ve got spring all sewn up.

So, because it’s our 5th anniversary, you find us in celebratory mood. In fact you can celebrate with us too, with three top competitions up for grabs: enjoy a taste of the East at Wombourne Tandoori and arrive there in style courtesy of Signature Luxury Cars. Win a fabulous hair makeover from Jon Kevan, as the business celebrates its 40th anniversary. And win free tickets from the Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton.

See you in May!

Contents

March/April edition

Kinver Country Fayre Stourbridge Rugby Club Evita is coming to The Grand Theatre Home Interiors Youth Speaks Kinver Rotary Club Sleigh Collection Recipe Crosswords & puzzles Out and About near Church Stretton St. Patrick’s Day Grand Theatre competition Advertising enquiries Email: gisella@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk Gisella Wiley (Sales Director) Editorial/What’s On information Email: info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk Geoff Hall (Editor) Magazine Design Studio 28 Design & Print (www.s28.co.uk)

10 12 14 20/21 24 24 26 30 42/43 50 52

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Now, roll on summer…

Geoff

54 Blacks Vets: Welcomes exotic pet specialist to the family 60 The garden in March Meet the boss 62 Gardening with Ann Winwood 63 Win a meal for 2 at Wombourne Tandoori and arrive in style 70 Food review: Harleys Smokehouse 76/77 Win a Hair Make-over with Jon Kevan 88 Bridal Beauty – The unbeatable Classic look 92 Women’s fashion: New season – New look 94/95 The Banks’s round the Wrekin sportive 2017 100 Social scene 110/112 Test drive: Volkswagen Tiguan 113 Answers to Crossword & Puzzles 114

TOWN & VILLAGE

LIFE M AGA Z I N E

Town & Village Life Magazine Ltd Lytham Rd, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY Tel: 01902 744217 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Congratulations to: Winner of Anita & Me competition at The Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Jude Green, Stourbridge Winner of Celebrations Radley Watch Competition Marjorie Crowe, Stourbridge

We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Town & Village Life magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, The Publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert or editorial.

All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Town & Village Life magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise – without the prior consent of Town & Village Life magazine Ltd.

Total distribution 16,000 copies bi-monthly

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Exciting Times at Three Pines Building Company The team at long-established Wolverhampton-based building company, Three Pines have been busy completing a variety of exciting new projects this year, as well as launching their brand-new subsidiary company, Three Pines Quality Homes.

As Alan Bradshaw, M.D. explains: “We work closely with the Ministry of Defence and have just completed a new glider training school for them in the Cotswolds.”

Complete with en-suite accommodation, a large catering kitchen, dining room and a number of training rooms the site has been custom-built to an exact specification to meet the needs of the service.

And, the company is also due to start work on building a new Ministry of Defence cadet unit in Trench that’s designed to include classrooms, a dedicated I.T room, offices, toilets and a servery, as well as a car park.

With an excellent reputation in the industry, it’s no surprise that the company is always in

demand with both businesses and homeowners alike.

And that’s why the company carry out all-manner of different projects.

“We’re currently erecting new purpose built training towers for West Midlands Fire Service in Sutton Coldfield and Canley.”

Always keen to keep at the forefront of the building industry, Three Pines has used its multiskilled team to complete a unique project for a domestic client, based closer-to-home in Penkridge.

“Our private client wanted their new home finished using the latest ‘green’ technology as well as eco-friendly and locally sourced materials.”

In contrast, the Three Pines team has also been called in to complete

a sympathetic refurbishment of a Grade 1 listed building in Bridgnorth at Bishop Percy’s House.

“Bishop Percy’s house is thought to be the oldest building in Bridgnorth, so we are very excited to be able to undertake the project and breathe new life into the historic site.”

With plans to convert the impressive black and white building into flats and a café, as well as constructing two new builds on the land attached to the property, Three Pines will undoubtedly be giving the site a new lease of life.

And it’s projects like these that demonstrate the company’s ability to complete a diverse range of projects to the highest standards.

In fact, Three Pines is synonymous with quality, that’s why the business’s announcement to launch their new subsidiary company, Three Pines Quality Homes, is especially exciting.

“Our new company will specialise in individual house building and every new build will be built to the highest standards and specification.”

Despite the long list of projects and the introduction of the new company, the Three Pines team is still ready and waiting to take care of any of your building or maintenance work this spring.

So, why not plan your own project and call in the Three Pines team to make it a reality?

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Whether you require refurbishment, extensions or new build, Three Pines are building contractors in Wolverhampton, who have the skills and expertise to handle your project from planning through to completion.

• Over 50 years of experience in construction • Commercial & Domestic developments undertaken • Fully qualified carpenters and bricklayers employed by the company for over 20 years • Care & consideration taken on all domestic & commercial projects • Professional & Friendly service New build in Penkridge all work undertaken by Three Pines Building Company

w w w. t h r e e - p i n e s . c o. u k Cullwick Court, Cullwick Street, Wolverhampton WV1 2UR Tel: 01902 499919 Email: info@three-pines.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Transform your conser vator y with

August Home Improvements

Is your conservatory too hot to sit in? ...and that’s probably only half of the story. Is it too COLD in winter?

It’s a sad fact that all those dreams that we had when we bought our shiny new conservatories 10 years ago of cosy candlelit dinner parties and children playing on the tiled floor in the summer sunshine soon evaporated after the first cold or hot weather spell appeared. Added to this, on the days that you can use it, if it rains you can’t hear yourself speak.

The chances are that you, like every other conservatory owner (about 5 million of us!), can only use your investment for six months of the year and for the rest of the time it’s, at best, an empty space or more likely a dumping ground for toys, clothes and hobby equipment, looking more like a jumble sale table.

Well, it doesn’t have to stay that way thanks to a new generation of lightweight, solid conservatory roofs that can replace the one you currently have without disturbing the windows, décor or flooring. There are a few versions but the market leader is the Guardian Roof, which has been around for several years in Ireland and is now available in the UK through approved installers.

Installation only takes about a week but the transformation is incredible. Looking like a traditional

roof with plastered ceiling and the option of trendy downlights, your conservatory will look a million dollars. You really will be able to have that candlelit dinner party in the middle of winter, see the children enjoying their toys on a summer afternoon or listen to polite conversation even in a downpour.

The Guardian Roof has all the environmental credentials you would expect from a high-quality product and is already approved

by Building Control so there is no need for any complicated paperwork. Better still, now is the time to purchase one as companies are looking to build their portfolio of installations and some good, genuine deals can be obtained.

The downside is as the market develops over the next couple

of years and look-a-like systems become available, the cowboys will hit the trail with all sorts of false promises and gimmicks. We’ve seen it all before with everything from double-glazing to solar panels so it is very important to only choose approved suppliers who can offer genuine insurancebacked guarantees. Fortunately, Guardian Roofs has done that for their customers by careful vetting of their installers so you can purchase in full confidence.

Another good second supplier reference resource is Checkatrade, which is a completely independent review for a variety of trades.

All you have to do is visit www. checkatrade.com and type in your suppliers name and see what others said about them.

So, if you want to get the best out of your conservatory then changing the roof can achieve that for you in a few days and at far less cost than knocking it down and building an extension.

Innovations seldom come along but this is one of them and will be the most popular home improvement of the decade. Watch this space!

For a free no obligation quotation, call our local office on 0800 988 5938.

August Home Improvements www.guardianroofs.net

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

IS YOUR CONSERVATORY TOO HOT IN SUMMER AND TOO COLD IN WINTER? REPLACE THE ROOF ON YOUR CONSERVATORY WITH A LIGHTWEIGHT, FULLY INSULATED SOLID ROOF AND TRANSFORM YOUR GROUND FLOOR LIVING AREA

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By removing your existing conservatory roof and replacing it with a solid, thermally efficient Guardianâ„¢ Warm Roof you will be transforming your conservatory into a home extension and a space you can use and enjoy all year round.

CALL US FOR A FREE QUOTATION OR A FREE FULL COLOUR BROCHURE

PHONE TODAY: 0800 988 5938

For a chat or to arrange for one of our friendly surveyors to call in and give you some free, professional advice.

AS SEEN AT:

Find us on Facebook

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Visit our website at: www.guardianroofs.net

www.guardianroofs.net

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BAGGERIDGE VIEW, PENN COMMON Charming three bedroom cottage set in picturesque grounds of approximately 1 acre close to Penn Common, having an adjoining self contained two bedroom annexe and grazing rights to the Common and gold Course.

Main accommodation comprises porch, dining/sitting room, breakfast kitchen, lounge, conservatory, utility, three bedrooms, bathroom, garage and extensive gardens. Annexe has two bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen/ sitting room, conservatory and private gardens to front and rear. COTTAGE (EPC: G). ANNEXE (EPC: D).

OFFERS AROUND ÂŁ699,950 VIEWING: Please contact the Wombourne Office.

High Street, Wombourne, South Staffordshire, WV5 9DP Telephone: (01902) 326366

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www.berrimaneaton.co.uk town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

BLACKLANDS, BOBBINGTON This gracious seven/eight bedroom detached residence with views is set within approximately 2.3 acres of landscaped grounds with an adjoining paddock to the rear, outdoor swimming pool and a detached double garage with gym and shower room.

The main accommodation offers reception hall, guest cloakroom, utility/boot room, breakfast kitchen with dining area, three reception rooms and four bath/ shower rooms. This property offers great potential for self contained accommodation. (EPC:F).

OFFERS AROUND ÂŁ875,000 VIEWING: Please contact the Bridgnorth Office.

22-23 Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4QN Telephone: (01746) 766499

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

www.berrimaneaton.co.uk 09

Kinver Country Fayre

Celebrating Kinver 100 Years - Sunday 18 June

Photo courtesy of Purelight Photography

Kinver Country Fayre, back on its traditional Father’s Day date of Sunday 18 June, has a special focus this year: Kinver 100 Years, celebrating the centenary of the National Trust’s ownership of Kinver Edge and its renowned Rock Houses. The Fayre will be one of the summer highlights in a whole year of planned celebrations by the National Trust, who will have a large presence at the event.

“Our ‘100 years of transport’ parade that opens the Fayre will showcase the types of vehicles ordinary folk used to visit Kinver and Kinver

Edge,” said Mark O’Neill, one of the organisers. “Each decade will be represented from 1917 all the way to the present day. Vintage, veteran and classic cars – with many of their owners in costume will join commercial vehicles, motor & pedal cycles and tractors from across the years in the parade.

They will then be on display on the event fields during the day.”

Music will be taking visitors back to times gone by. The fabulous Bluebird Belles will be singing songs from the 1940s, while the music tent will also be playing host to popular rockabilly band The Straight Aces, with sounds of the 1950s and 60s. There will be dance displays down the decades and an insight into the history of Kinver and the local area. Watch out for more details as June approaches.

Cavalry through the Ages display.

This will be taking spectators on a journey to meet Roman warriors, medieval knights and Napoleonic soldiers, ending with a tribute to the First World War, tying in with the 1917 centenary theme.

Then there is the ever-popular fun dog show, children’s fancy dress, falconry displays, Shire horses, pony rides, children’s attractions, scores of stalls including plenty of delicious food and the real ale tent doing a brisk trade in local brews from Kinver and Enville.

Photo courtesy of Purelight Photography

Of course, the Fayre will be providing its traditional great day out for all the family. The arena programme is headlined by The Cavalry of Heroes, a skilled equestrian team, who will be performing thrilling stunts in a

For advance tickets visit: www.kinvercountryfayre.com Contact us at: info@kinvercountryfayre.com Follow us @KinverFayre Like us @kinvercountryfayre

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Stourbridge

RFC

Spring is upon us and here at Stourbridge we are looking forward to some drier pitches to compensate for the wet January and February.

On the pitch the First XV have dropped off the chase for promotion to National One and look like finishing fifth in their league. The Stourbridge Lions are the team to catch in Midlands Two West (North) where they top their league and are on target to be competing against Dudley Kingswinford, who three seasons ago were in the same league as the Stourbridge first XV. Our Mini and Junior sections are geared up for festivals on March 5th and April 2nd when teams from fifteen other clubs will compete.

Girls Rugby is becoming increasingly popular and in a recent “Pitch up and Play “promotion on a cold and wet Sunday some thirty five girls from as far away as Oswestry and Worcester took part. If you know of any daughters who may be interested please email Nicki Spilman on

England Rugby Coach Eddie Jones

n.spilman@btinternet.com.

We would welcome them with open arms.

Off the pitch we are gearing up for our annual Corporate Lunch in the large marquee on May 5th.The speakers on the day are former Director General of the CBI and Minister of State for Trade and Investment, Lord Digby Jones and the successful England Rugby Coach Eddie Jones. There will be an auction on the day of sporting interest with tickets available for Rugby, Cricket and Football conducted

by TV personality and auctioneer Philip Serrell. The Master of Ceremonies will be the ex- British and Irish Lion John Bentley.

Please apply to srfcmaylunch@ stourbridgerugby.com if you are interested. Tickets are £114 each for a four course meal with coffee.

The May Ball to be held on Saturday May 6th will this year be Hollywood Glamour themed and if you fancy a black tie special

glitzy night out again please e-mail srfcmayball@stourbridgerugby. com. Tickets are £65 each.

Guests will be treated to a full four course meal with coffee and, if required, a tasty vegetarian option. There is a large dance floor and entertainment. You may want to try your hand at the casino tables or capture the evening with personalised snaps from Bruce Foster Photography.

Tickets are selling fast.

As ever the club room is available to book for parties and functions and in April we have two weddings and six separate all-evening functions.

All this on top of a busy rugby schedule will give our newly appointed Hospitality Manager Donna Tromans, whom we welcome back, plenty to do.

Please contact Donna on 01384 395000 if you are looking for a venue for a special occasion.

Robin Edwards Chairman, Stourbridge Rugby Club

T: 01384 395000 E: rugby@stourbridgerugby.com www.stourbridgerugby.com 12

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

FLAMING FIRES, FIREPLACES & STOVES

Here at Flaming Fires, we look forward to the long winter evenings.....

• Contemporary and traditional designs • The only approved CHESNEY’S stockist in the area • Quality fireplaces at realistic prices • Established over 20 years High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DP (ON THE VILLAGE GREEN)

01902 898221 www.flamingfires.co.uk

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• Affordable Prices • Heavy Furniture Not A Problem • Expert Advice KARNDEAN SHOWROOM NOW OPEN

• Stunning Showroom

We Can Uplift and Remove Old Carpets

FULLY GUARANTEED CARPET CLEANING SERVICE CARPETING • RUGS • VINYLS • KARNDEAN FLOORING • LAMINATE FLOORING • REAL WOOD FLOORING

Family owned and run business for over 40 years and counting!

88/90 Dudley Road, Sedgley Tel: 01902 883281

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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EMMA HATTON

Eva Peron in EVITA Moving straight from the role of Elphaba in the West End production of Wicked, Emma Hatton is now starring as Eva Peron in Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Evita. This has kept her busy but… “as any actor would tell you, you can’t complain when you’re busy!”

“Evita is a very different experience to Wicked. For instance, the fans of Evita aren’t quite as active on social media as the Wicked fans – stage door isn’t rammed with young fans, but those who like Evita have been with the show for decades. There’s quite a responsibility that comes with that, Evita is a well-loved show but we’re doing OK at the moment, they seem to like what we’re doing with it – so long may that continue!”

Emma has understudied the roles of Scaramouche and Meat in London’s We Will Rock You at the Dominion Theatre and Donna in Dreamboats and Petticoats but Wicked was her first full-time principal role. “Playing Elphaba was very interesting, it was there that I learned how to be the leading lady, rather than just stepping into her shoes. In terms of handling the pressures of playing this type of role Wicked gave me a great footing. I still really love what I do and I think that’s the key to success,

Emma Hatton

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to make sure you enjoy what you’re doing and I still absolutely love it.”

“Eva Peron is such a great role and so different to anything I’ve ever done before – it’s a completely different challenge but I’m relishing it. We’re still very early on in the run and I’m discovering new things about her every day. With songs like Don’t Cry For Me Argentina there’s definitely a pressure to get it right and deliver it as effectively as you can. It depends on how you feel, sometimes the show takes more out of you but the music is so cleverly written and beautifully done – it’s quite an immersive experience.”

“We get to see a lot of the life story of Eva Peron in the show, she goes from being 15 to 33, which was the age that she died, the story moves so quickly and the lyrics are fundamental to the telling of the story so you need to be on top of your game every day.”

“Both Elphaba and Eva are incredibly strong women and both such a joy to play, particularly in this day and age.

They’re both role models so that’s fantastic for me to be able to portray.

Who their characters are challenge good an evil. Obviously, Wicked is a fairy-tale and Evita is based on fact but it challenges people’s perception of that ‘grey area’, people aren’t all good or all bad. It makes people think, yes she did some awful

things, but she did them for the right reason. That’s definitely clear in Elphaba’s character, she stood up for what she believed in and made herself unpopular. There are similarities and I can draw on that.”

“As a whole, this is a very strong and very slick production. It also feels very fresh – from my perspective I think we have a really strong team – there are no weak links. The choreography is beautiful also the direction, the lighting and the set just works so well, it’s not too fussy and when you’ve got all that you have a very diligent company.”

“Last year I worked on an EP with Anthony Strong, who gigs full time as a jazz singer and we’ve collaborated a few times. I do have jazz as another thing to do but we’re still quite early on in the Evita tour at the moment so I’m still working out what my capabilities are, and adjusting to being back on the road.

I’m still working furiously behind the scenes but you have to prioritise the show you’re working on. We’re creative people and it’s nice to have something else to work on so that when you come back to the show, it’s fresh again and I’m really looking forward to visiting Wolverhampton.”

EVITA is at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from 9th – 13th May 2017. www.grandtheatre.co.uk

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Quality, bespoke creations with an exceptional service!

Hayley WindoWs, conservatories and roofline

PVC Windows PVC Doors Conservatories Roofline Glass Extensions Folding Sliding Doors Repairs Orangeries Timber Composite Doors

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advertisement feature

Pension Changes and the fallout

Following my feature in the last edition regarding the recent pension changes I have, over the course of the last 2 months, been contacted by several readers regarding their circumstances, so I feel it may be beneficial to explain further exactly how the changes have affected different sectors of the pension market.

and now prohibit cash equivalent transfer values (CETVs).

I will start by looking at public sector pensions that include the following employers:

The only exception to this is the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) as this is a funded scheme that means you are able to obtain a cash equivalent transfer value. On saying that, what we are finding is that the amount being offered as a CETV is way below the levels we would expect or indeed recommend for transferral, as they do not offer

Police, NHS, HMRC and Teachers.

All of the above pension schemes are unfunded and therefore, following the pension freedom changes in April 2015, the Government changed their rules 16

What do we mean by unfunded?

Well these are, in the main, government pensions where the pension payments are covered by income received in the form of tax and national insurance. The biggest exponent of this is the State Pension, which probably explains why the government keeps extending the State Pension age – and it is because of this that it has been mooted that the children of today will not receive their State Pension until they are in their mid-70s, which is a daunting thought for the kids of today.

fair value. Whilst we are on the subject of Local Government pensions at retirement, you now have the opportunity to exchange a larger amount of your pension to give you additional tax-free cash, however, the commutation factor used is 12 to 1. To put that in simple terms, it means that for every £1 of income you give up you receive £12 in tax-free cash. This is not generous and in many cases you will receive far better value for money over the medium to long term by not taking the maximum amount of tax-free cash. If in doubt, always consult with an Independent Financial Adviser.

While public sector pensions are very limited in their options most other funded final salary pension schemes are offering attractive transfer values that, depending on your circumstances, can be life changing as you will see from the action taken by the clients I met recently.

CASE STUDY: Mr and Mrs R I met Mr and Mrs R after being introduced to them by Mrs R’s brother; he has been a client of mine for some time. They have both worked for Jaguar Land Rover Mrs R for 30 years and Mr R for 22 years. They had, prior to meeting with me, contacted the JLR Pension Scheme to request CETVs and the values quoted surprised them to say the least. Mrs R who is approaching her 58th birthday has accumulated a deferred pension of £23,017.70 per annum, payable on her 65th birthday; she was offered a transfer value of £668,776.94, should she decide to transfer away from the scheme.

Mr R who is 62 in May has a deferred pension of £14,649.63 per annum payable on his

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

65th birthday; he was offered £400,319.32 should he decide to transfer away from the scheme.

take as for both of them “holidays” are the love of their lives.

Their personal circumstances are a little different as Mr R still enjoys work however Mrs R yearns to retire and would stop working immediately if financially viable which, dependent upon her needs and objectives, may well be viable. Once we had gone through an in-depth analysis of their circumstances it transpires that to live comfortably the household income required is £3,000 per month which means, whilst Mr R is working he contributes £2,000, Mrs R would need £1,000 per month initially.

I must highlight that we are able to utilise the tax free cash as part of an overall tax planning strategy as they have savings elsewhere although, at some stage in the future, they may well need to replenish them from their pension fund.

With Mrs R’s transfer value being in excess of £600,000 we could utilise the tax-free cash as part of an overall tax saving strategy, take £14,666 per annum with no liability to income tax thus giving a net monthly income of £1,222 - slightly more than required but worth having to fully utilise her personal allowance. This income would be drawing less than 2.3% from the overall fund which is below the investment returns that we have achieved for our clients over the medium to long term.

Although at this stage I must point out that past returns are no guarantee of future returns.

Mrs R decided there and then that her life was going to change and as soon as we could arrange to proceed with the transfer she would hand in her notice and retire immediately. Mr R on the other hand wants to continue working for another 12 months however a few days after our meeting he was reprimanded for the time he likes to take off for holidays over the Christmas period and he came out of that meeting with the mind-set that if they are not happy he may well bring his retirement forward and bow out gracefully.

From an adviser’s point of view it is so refreshing to meet people and totally change their lives as, prior to our meeting, Mrs R accepted that she would have to work until her 65th birthday, whilst for 4 years her husband would be retired whereas now she is retiring before him and has already started planning the vacations they will www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

The main difference now is that Mr & Mrs R have total control of their future and whilst this suits their circumstances, for others it can be daunting as being able to just receive a yearly pension with no input that is 100% guaranteed for the rest of their life is more suitable.

I see many clients with this dilemma and my advice has always been “if in doubt, don’t” - make sure that before taking any action you are 100% comfortable in what you are doing.

Should you have a final salary pension and want to find out what options are available to you please do not hesitate to contact us and we will gladly advise you. Initial meetings are at our expense.

John Webb

John Webb is a Chartered Financial Planner and a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society, the highest accolade designated by that organisation.

The Personal Finance Society is the professional body for the Financial Advisory Profession in the United Kingdom, promoting the highest standards of technical knowledge, client service and ethical practice.

If you would like more information or need advice on your specific circumstances please feel free to contact the author John Webb of Midland Independent Financial Services Limited on 01543 468877 or john.webb@ midlandifa.co.uk Midland Independent Financial Services is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Midland Independent Financial Services Ltd, 153 Avon Road, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 1LF. Telephone 01543 468877.

www.midlandifa.co.uk Throughout the year we at Midland Independent hold investment seminars with industry experts.

If you would like to attend please email: info@midlandifa.co.uk 17

Quality Products and Exceptional Service at Premier Carpets and Flooring Ltd Premier Carpets and Flooring has long been the number-one choice for discerning home and business owners who are keen to find quality products and exceptional service.

Established over thirty years ago, the family-run business supplies carpets and flooring from industryleading brands from their impressive showroom, that’s located in Macrome Road, Claregate, Wolverhampton.

With something for every home interior – and budget - as well as an extensive selection of flooring which meets the demands of the commercial sector, Premier is the only place you’ll need to visit whatever your carpet and flooring requirements.

As company owner, Roy Colman explains: “Our extensive showroom displays flooring from leading brands such as Karndean and Amtico and there’s a vast range of top quality carpets from all of the big names; Cormar, Brockway, Westex, Ulster, Brintons, Kingsmead and Victoria Carpets.”

No matter what budget you’re working to, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Premier.

“We have plenty of budget carpets to choose from too, which are particularly popular with private landlords.”

As approved Karndean suppliers – and installers – Premier offers a full design and fitting service for the ever-popular flooring.

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Owner, Roy Colman (right)

“We work with many businesses and regularly take on projects for all-manner of institutions, including schools, hospitals, residential homes, private businesses, Wolverhampton University’s campuses, HMP prison service and G4S. ” In fact, Premier has recently completed a large project for Jaguar Land Rover with Vinci construction at the new i54 development.

It’s no surprise that Premier are the go-to supplier for the commercial sector, not only do they supply commercial carpets, carpet tiles and safety floor vinyls - from brands such as Altro, Polyflor, Forbo, Heckmondwike, Interface, JHS & Rawsons - they deliver an unbeatable, ultra-efficient service, from start to finish.

That’s why companies from across the entire UK are keen to use Premier.

“Clients can book an appointment – free of charge - with one of our surveyors who will visit their home, measure up and provide plenty of help and advice before giving a quotation.”

“Our website has been designed to be an extension of our already successful bricks and mortar business. We now offer ’supply-only’ all over the UK on our extensive range of products, you can buy online and experience great advice and impeccable service all within a few clicks.”

“Premier’s loyal and dedicated installation teams have years of experience, many have been with us for over fifteen years and completed advanced Karndean fitting courses.”

We provide our services to both domestic and commercial customers and specialise in all types of floor coverings including carpet rolls, carpet tiles, Luxury vinyl tiles , planks and sheet vinyl.

Premier’s fitters are able to install any product sold by the company and can take care of all aspects of the installation process, including sub floor preparation, damp-proof membranes as well as floor-levelling screeds.

Independent local traders can also take advantage of Premier’s trade counter, which is situated in store.

It’s not just domestic clients who benefit from what Premier has to offer:

So, why not update your home – or business – with carpets or vinyl flooring from Premier?

With a team of eight office-based staff and a fleet of nine vehicles, the company is able to easily meet the demands of any flooring project.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

KARNDEAN AND CARPET SHOWROOM MON - FRI 8.00am - 5:00pm SAT 10:00am - 3:00pm

For a free no obligation site survey and measuring service call 01902 745491 Unit 9 Walton Works industrial Estate, Macrome Road, Claregate, Wolverhampton, WV6 9HD

Shop online @ www.premierflooringltd.com

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

19

Simple change, big difference

- update your home this spring Spring provides you with the perfect opportunity to make those changes in your home that you’ve been contemplating all winter-long.

Whether you want to create more space, update the décor or maybe treat yourself to some new soft furnishings, you’ll be amazed at the difference a few changes make.

Add more mirrors Mirrors are one of the most useful tools in creating the illusion of space in a small room. Use mirrors throughout your home to boost the feeling of space - positioning a full length mirror behind a large piece of furniture works really well and looks very chic.

To flood a gloomy room with natural light, place a large mirror opposite a window.

You’ll be amazed at the difference.

Think about furniture Nothing saps the feeling of space from a room like too much furniture. So, get rid of those

unnecessary pieces and replace larger designs with smaller alternatives to open-up your room.

If your sofa is swallowing-up the space in your living room, treat yourself to a smaller – yet still comfortable – design.

Utilise storage Nothing beats a good ‘spring clean’, so clear the clutter and utilise storage space in your home by maximising the capacity of cupboards by adding shelves and storage solutions, so that you can keep the clutter out-of-sight.

Focus on flooring When it comes to flooring, continuity is key. Whether you choose carpet, vinyl or wood flooring, having the same design running throughout your home creates the feeling of space and provides a modern look.

Change the window dressings Often, we overlook our window dressings but actually they’re incredibly important for finishing the look in your room. Curtains are essential for creating a cosy look and a modern design, choose a hue that complements your room to instantly update tired décor.

Blinds combine style and practicality and offer a really neat and modern look – whether they’re combined with curtains or used alone. What’s more, patterned designs and bold colours can create interest in an otherwise characterless room.

To complement the new window dressings, treat your room to a new rug, some scatter cushions and accessories, and enjoy the new look.

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

A lick of paint There’s nothing better than a lick of paint to instantly update your home and provide a clean and fresh finish. Forget boring neutrals and choose a hue that’ll add a little character to your room.

Don’t forget to take a look at wallpapers too.

Have a light-bulb moment Lighting makes a massive difference to the feel of a room. If your lighting is dated and dingy, then nothing will look good, so swap those drab shades for modern designs and instantly transform the look – and feel – of your living space.

So check out what our advertisers have to offer today!

J by Jasper Conran at Debenhams

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

21

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by Managing Director, Miles Pargeter and John Pargeter, following the retirement of David Pargeter in August 2016, the company has been a mainstay landmark in Stourbridge High Street since 1926 and has earned an enviable reputation.

“The focus of the business has always been to bring our customers the finest quality furniture and service, and it’s no different today,” explains Miles.

From its extensive showroom, Pargeters displays contemporary and modern designs, from leading British brands, over three floors.

“Over the last five years we’ve changed our focus, moving away from bedroom furniture, curtains and carpets to focus on becoming an upholstery specialist.”

And the store also boasts a brand-new department that specialises in

Sherborne lift and rise beds, reclining chairs all of which are exempt from VAT - as well as sofas to match.

Customers at Pargeters are always surprised by the independent stores’ low prices, as Miles explains: “People often think that it’ll cost more to buy from an independent store, but I can assure you that it won’t cost you to shop at Pargeters. Very often we are cheaper than bigger group stores and we’ll even price match.”

Thanks to Pargeters’ competitive pricing, it’s clear that you’ll no longer have to accept that good customer service has to be sacrificed in exchange for low prices.

“We pride ourselves on offering the lowest possible prices combined with the highest standard of customer service.”

And now is the perfect time to pay a visit because the Spring Sale has just begun and there are impressive savings of up to 40%.

The company even offers free delivery within a 50 mile radius and will take your old items away free of charge.

So, why not visit Pargeters’ showroom today to enjoy a legacy of over 90 years’ worth of fine customer service?

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

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ROMAN BAT H R O O M S • K I T C H E N S • T I L ES

AWARD WINNING DESIGNS For almost 30 years we have been creating individually designed luxury bathrooms. Our team of tradesmen will carry out your renovation with great attention to detail delivering peace of mind and the outstanding customer service you receive will ensure your complete satisfaction.

To arrange a personal consultation please visit www.romanbathrooms.co.uk

110 - 111 High Street, Blackheath B65 0EG Telephone 0121 561 4374 • email info@romanbathrooms.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

23

Yo uth Speak s

Six young orators from the Invictus academy of schools have been given the green light to go forward in a national public speaking competition that could eventually see them crowned champions of the UK and Ireland.

Kinver High School triumphed in the intermediate category and High Arcal Sports Science College at Sedgley won the senior section in the first round of the nationwide “Youth Speaks” competition run annually by the Rotary International organisation in Britain and Ireland.

The Rotary Clubs of Kinver and Sedgley and Wombourne organised this first local contest which also involved speakers from Ellowes Hall Sports College in Dudley; Ounsdale High School, Wombourne; and Leasowes School, Halesowen.

Each school fielded teams of three students comprising proposer, main speaker and vote of thanks proposer in 11 – 13 and 14-17 year old categories. They were judged by a panel headed by Sir Geoff Hampton, Vice Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton supported by

Sir Geoffrey holding the all-important timekeeper’s clock with the green light showing success for (left to right) Georgia Whitehouse, Lewis Callary and Hollie Aston-Baugh from High Arcal School and Evie Jones, Emilly Fellows and Connie Brettell from Kinver High School

representatives of Stourbridge and Wolverhampton Speakers Clubs.

Members of the winning teams each received £25 and now go forward to the district round to be held in Coventry. That will be followed by a regional round whose victors will proceed to the national finals in which teams from schools across the entire RIBI network will compete for the overall title of Youth Speaks Champions.

Sir Geoffrey told the audience at Kinver High School the difference between all the teams was “miniscule, minute” but one of the

deciding factors was the speakers’ adherence to strict time allocations – signified by a series of coloured lights.

Rtn Chris Elcock, who headed the organisational team at Kinver, says: “The competition gives the youngsters experience in speaking on a public platform, the formulation of ideas on a topical subject and dealing with that topic in an allocated time” The Kinver High School intermediate team chose “rape” as their discussion topic while High Arcal opted for “the pressure of being a teenager in 2017”.

Kinver Rotary Club More than 30 charities centred chiefly on Kinver, Enville, Wollaston and Wall Heath are shortly to receive cheques from the proceeds of Kinver Rotary Club’s record 2016 sleigh collection which raised more than £7,000.

The club has agreed donations ranging from £100 to £400 for the elderly, the young, bereaved, handicapped and disadvantaged.

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Cash has been put aside for the club’s annual senior’s party, to be held on March 31, and the Kinver Community Library project has been presented with £500.

President Ian Maddock says: “We believe the sleigh makes a significant contribution at Christmas for those in and around Kinver and again at this time of the year when we hope the charitable donations we make provide a meaningful contribution to those we support.”

President Ian Maddock signing the first of the cheques to be sent to the worthy causes

Further information: Mike Deathridge 07801 554669 town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Stylish Shade Solutions for your home

Simple, elegant and robust Inshade sails keep your conservatory cool in the summer months by reducing UV rays by up to 95% whilst maintaining natural light levels.

Made in the UK from an exclusive solar control fabric – Inshade sails can be washed in a domestic washing machine to ensure they maintain their looks and performance for years to come.

7a Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV16 4QN Tel: 01746 768138 Email: showroom@loveyourblinds.com www.loveyourblinds.com

21 Enville Road, Wall Heath Kingswinford, West Midlands DY6 0JT Open Tuesday to Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 4pm

A family established business since 1992.

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Wet rooms and luxury bathrooms for the less abled are our speciality.

Call us for a full design and in house fitting service.

Flexible payment terms available.

01384 400016 www.wallheathbathrooms.co.uk info@wallheathbathrooms.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

25

RECIPE Ham Hock

Serves 6

By Mike Whitehurst

and Mustard Flamiche

A flamiche is sort of a cross between a quiche and a vol au vent. It makes a great starter served with pickles or a light lunch served with green beans and new potatoes.

EQUIPMENT • 1 pastry 5” cutter • Baking sheet • Silicone mould with 2.5” round inserts • mixing bowl • 1 pan big enough to submerge the ham hock • rolling pin

INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 ham hock a few bay leaves 1 white onion 10 peppercorns 1 bunch of chives finely chopped a sprig of parsley roughly chopped 1 shallot finely chopped 2 tsp of wholegrain mustard 100g of mature cheddar - grated 1 egg and one egg yolk 200ml of double cream 1 sheet of shop bought puff pastry 1 pinch of maldon sea salt Plain flour

Simmer the ham hock with the bay leaves, white onion and peppercorns for about 3 hours or until falling off the bone. Once cooked allow the ham to cool so you can pull the meat from the bones, make sure you get the tendons and excess fat out too so you’re just left with the meat. Tear this or chop it up into small pieces and then mix with the mustard, shallot, chopped chives, parsley and grated cheddar. Now fold in the egg, yolk and cream and set aside.

(No need to season although you can add a little pepper if you like).

Roll out the pastry and cut out 6 rounds with the pastry cutter, lightly flour and roll out a little further to thin the pastry a bit more. Now take a pastry round and make a cup out of it in your hand then fill with the ham hock mix. Push down into the silicone mould and press down with a teaspoon. Repeat this with the remaining pastry rounds then place on baking sheet and bake in the oven for 30 - 40 minutes on 165°C (depending on your oven).

Once the flamiche are cooked allow them to cool until you are able to pop them out of the silicone moulds without burning your fingers. When you are ready to eat just place them back on the baking sheet to finish off for 15 minutes. If not eating on the day you can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat for 15 minutes. Freeze for a month.

SERVING SUGGESTION For a light lunch serve with green beans and a couple of new potatoes or as a starter serve with pickled cauliflower, balsamic onions and a mustard mayonnaise.

For more information on this recipe please email mike@takefood.co.uk www.takefood.co.uk 26

www.instagram.com/takefood

www.facebook.com/takefoodcatering

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

27

Castle Blinds and Awnings New look showroom, new collection

There are some exciting changes taking place this spring at Castle Blinds and Awnings.

Ready for the introduction of its impressive new fabric collection, the Kingswinford-based business has transformed its showroom.

As Managing Director, Amanda Jones explains: “Every two years we change our fabric collection and this year we’ve decided to start from scratch and totally transform the showroom to make way for our fabulous new products.”

There are a total of 53 brandnew blinds in the showroom and dedicated sections showcasing Louvolite blinds, motorised blinds and even children’s blinds.

“We’ve themed our ranges according to colour and there’s everything from subtle creams and whites, to greens and blues, ochres and really bold hues.”

For those who are looking to find something special for the kids’ rooms there’s a fantastic choice at the showroom.

“Our kids’ blinds are bright, colourful and fun and there are plenty of different designs to choose from.”

With motorised blinds becoming increasingly popular, Castle Blinds and Awnings has made plenty of room for them in the re-designed showroom.

“Motorised blinds offer convenience, security and safety and are a really popular choice with homeowners.”

Allowing you to open or close all of the blinds in your home with the touch of a button – or via an app on your smart phone - motorised blinds save you time, help you to secure your property and ensure safety.

“If you’re away from home you can set or control your blinds to open and close at a certain time, so that your home doesn’t appear empty.”

As members of the British Blind and Shutter Association the team are supporters of their ‘Make It

Safe Campaign’ which highlights the importance of blind safety.

“All of the blinds we sell are completely safe for children and vulnerable people, but motorised blinds don’t use any cords whatsoever – completely eliminating any risk.”

And, motorised blinds at Castle are completely affordable.

“People often think that they can’t afford motorised blinds but we offer motorisation across all of our blinds and awnings at incredibly reasonable prices.”

Manufacturing all of their own products means that the company ensures quality and can tailor designs to suit every one of their clients’ needs.

“We sell all kinds of blinds and shutters, so you’re sure to find the perfect product for you in our showroom.”

The company doesn’t just cater for homeowners though; they also have a large commercial clientele too.

So, whether you want to style a new look in your home this spring, up-date your office or maybe try out motorisation, make sure that you pay a visit to Castle Blinds and Awnings today.

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

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Monday - Friday 9:00 - 5:00 Saturday 10:00 - 4:00

Telephone: 01384 273769 www.castleblinds.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Quick Crossword Across 7 Stylish (13) 8 Talking (8) 9 Remove (4) 10 Soaked (7) 12 Attacks with knife (5) 14 Crawled (5) 16 Scratched (7) 19 Female sheep (4) 20 Ten hundred (8) 22 Support (13)

Down 1 Wealthy (4) 2 Sculpture (6) 3 Motors (7) 4 Protrude (5) 5 Accompany (6) 6 Achievable (8) 11 Slinging (8) 13 Dicken’s character (7) 15 Type of gun (6) 17 Presume (6) 18 Mixes (5) 21 Zero (4)

Sudoku

Easy

Hard

Puzzle answers on page 114

Word Search Find the words below in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a phrase.

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Blue tit

Redstart

Carrion crow

Redwing

Dunnock

Robin

Fieldfare

Rook

Great tit

Siskin

Greenfinch

Starling

Jackdaw

Swallow

Jay

Swift

Lapwing

Tawny owl

Magpie

Waxwing

Pheasant

Wren town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

As seen on...

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

DIY SOS

31

For the Perfect Mother’s Day Gift This fine Victorian house is the home of a truly 21st century shopping experience, and for Mothering Sunday on March 26th you could not find a better place for that special present.

Jewellery and scarves from exciting brands such as Carrie Elspeth, Aviv Silver, Peace of Mind and Treaty, lovely bags from Earthsquared, candles and room scenters from St Eval of Cornwall and contemporary fused glass from Jo Downs are only a few of the many stylish and unusual items in the store .

fabulously affordable costume jewellery, created with bold and delicate beads and crystals make their designs so completely original.

New to the Galleries is the work of artist Kathryn Callaghan – a superb range of limited edition gicleé prints based on her original work, which is created by pouring a mix of gel and ink freestyle onto the image surface. Featuring wildlife such as birds, hares, and stags, she is

able to evoke a sense of energy, life and beauty for each subject.

Design, quality and value for money are paramount when selecting the unique and eclectic collections for the store, giving a choice of products not readily available on the high street.

Expect a warm welcome and something new and different to see each time you visit.

This season’s collection of scarves from Peony is a celebration of colour. Powdery pastels team with chalky neutrals and paint-box brights to create a very wearable palette that will appeal to all.

One Button are inspired by beads, fabric and accessories and their new collection for 2017 does not disappoint. An exclusive and beautiful range of scarves and

Stourbridge Gift Shop

Gallery

Galleries Picture Framers

Two floors of eye catching giftware, jewellery and home accessories provides a visual treat that makes shopping here such a pleasure.

To complete that perfect gift, select from a range of beautifully designed contemporary gift wrap and bags.

Open: 9.30am - 5.30pm Monday to Saturday 58 Worcester Street, Stourbridge, DY8 1AS Tel: 01384 390170 www.stourbridgegalleries.co.uk

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

New Solid Oak ranges in store as well as made to measure Curtains and Blinds

www.merridale-furnishers.co.uk

Telephone: 01902 420699

enquiries@merridale-furnishers.co.uk 17-25 Merridale Road, Chapel Ash,Wolverhampton

QUALITY SOLID WOOD FURNITURE IN OAK Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat: 9.30am-5pm

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Thurs: 9.30am-3.00pm

33

Transforming the look of properties since 2005 Able Facilities Services is a local family-run business, specialising in exterior cleaning, maintenance and landscape services.

Scott Williams, Director, says: “Over the years, we have built a great customer base who continue to use us year on year. We really can transform the look of your property and outdoor areas. Now summer is on its way we all want our properties looking pristine and ready for those garden parties, or for simply sitting in the garden admiring the view.

“Our roof cleaning service will completely transform the look of your property! Over the years the weather can take its toll on our roofs, covering them with moss, lichen,

34

algae and general stubborn air pollution stains. This can leave your property looking unpleasant and unattractive, whilst also damaging the tiles, causing leaks, blocking your gutters and gullies, as well as creating other maintenance issues.

We will remove all this preventing further maintenance issues and bring your property back to its former glory. After every clean we offer an anti-fungicidal treatment which can be applied to kill any remaining spores and to help prevent and reduce any regrowth. We also carry out any minor roof repairs.

“Our drive care service will restore the look of your driveways and patios back to their best with our professional pressure cleaning service. We clean and restore all types of driveways and patios including crete print, block paving, concrete, stone and tarmac. Once cleaned, we can apply a weed killer and re-sand. For the final touch, we

can also apply a sealant to protect your driveway from dirt, weeds and moss growth etc ensuring it stays looking new for longer, which will save you ongoing maintenance for many years to come. Why fork out a fortune to re-lay your drive or put down a new patio, when we can refurbish it back to its original condition for a fraction of the price?”

For a free quotation or for further information about our services, please call us today on 01902 742222 or 07590 389991.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

35

Dudley South Ladies’ Luncheon Club At the February meeting Chairman Mary Jones was pleased to welcome visitor Jeanette Gaunt and 30 members for a 3-course lunch, the Annual General Meeting and to hear speaker Mr. Bob Broadfield about his early life as an acrobat in the circus and variety.

The AGM gave Mary the opportunity to thank the Committee, President Brenda Adkin and members for their support and generosity in 2016 and was delighted to welcome volunteer Jill Buchan on to the committee.

She felt that after 6 years in the Chair it was time for her to stand down but was willing to remain on the admin committee to help in any way required. On behalf of all members Ann Rogers paid her a warm tribute and presented her with a gift of silver earrings. Pauline Handley and Ann Rogers were appointed Co-Chairmen and other officers were re-appointed as previous year.

Mr. Broadfield outlined the life in a circus from his beginning in 1960 through to variety shows.

Unfortunately TV was the death knell for variety but he continued as an acrobat abroad until his retirement. It was nostalgic recalling the catch phrases of old comedians much loved in their time. Now 88 years of age Mr Broadfield finished by balancing on a pole which had everyone on the edge of their seats ready to catch him.

L-R: retiring Chairman Mary Jones; new CoChairman Pauline Handley; new Committee Member Jill Buchan and Treasurer Sandra Chappell

Pauline Handley had been busy arranging the new programme of speakers for 2017/18 including “Humour in Retirement”, Ned Williams “King of Showmen”, a Great Australian Adventure, Walking in Wenslydale, the Life of a Ghost, St Andrews singers and Dudley South MP Mike Wood. Spaces are still available on a coach outing to the National Arboretum Alrewas on Wednesday 17th May with pickups in Kingswinford and The Lodge, Dudley.

Meetings are held on the second Friday of each month, 12pm for 12.30pm. Visitors would be most welcome and can attend 3 times before deciding to join. Enquiries to the Secretary on 01902 372984 or email albertgriffithsme7@gmail.com

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• Ideal for mature, semi-retired or mums at home • Kinver, Wall Heath and Amblecote (Lakeside areas) • Excellent Rates of pay

If interested please ring:

01952 261267

If you are interested in distributing the magazine in your area on a regular basis or to cover holidays in all areas, please let us know and we will put you on our waiting list.

(If we are unavailable please leave a message and we will contact you on our return.)

36

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Brierley Hill Bathrooms

Large Showroom Helpful Staff Free Survey Special help for the disabled & elderly Bath removed & shower cubicle with Anti-slip tray installed together with decorative waterproof wall panelling (no grout lines), shower valve, seat & grab rails

from ÂŁ1,950 inc. VAT Bathrooms fully fitted from ÂŁ3,950 inc. VAT www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Bespoke Sofas & Quality Re-Upholstery

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Manufacturing all manner of sofas, settees, chairs, chaise lounge, occasional chairs, curtains and soft furnishing from our base in Cannock, we at Ralvern upholstery can create any type of design - from ultra-modern to classically traditional.

Using traditional skills we can also strip down your old suite, sofa, occasional chairs and re-create the original design with our superior re-upholstery service.

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39

How many actors does it take to change a light bulb? …only one, they don’t like to share the spotlight!

Both functional and attractive, spotlights are becoming increasingly popular in our homes as they are unobtrusive but still look the part.

Typically considered for a contemporary layout, they work just as brilliantly in a traditional setting too. In this editorial, we’ll look at different ways to use spotlights and why they are such a brilliant, lighting piece in your home.

Spotlights tick all the boxes when versatility is concerned. Used for ambience, task, and accent lighting, you can place spotlights just about anywhere in your home.

Single Spotlights: Simple, small, and stylish, single spotlight fittings can be mounted on both

40

the ceiling or wall. They’re extremely handy as they will provide light where it is needed. They make great lights for using over a bed for reading, highlighting a particular feature or ornament within the room, such as on top of a picture, or to provide light in an alcove.

Multiple Spotlights: A very self-explanatory name, multiple spotlights are fitted to a ceiling plate, bar, or track. They’re very practical as you can swivel the light in numerous directions, letting a distinct pool of light onto the surface below, all from one fitting. Just like single spotlights, these pivoting geniuses are a lot safer than you would think. Their gleam can be directed further away than where you initially locate them, rather than fitting them up-close by ovens or showers. Also, by positioning spotlights correctly, you can look at computer and television screens without receiving a glare, which prevents the risk of eye strain.

be placed just about anywhere to create a dramatic effect, from your ceiling, walls, under your cabinets, going along the skirting, on the floor, on your drive, on stairs, in shelves, cupboards, bookcases, the list is endless.

They’re aesthetically pleasing and add a lot of depth, which can give your room a new lease of life.

Don’t be fooled by this modern technology though, they look just as fabulous in period homes!

Track/Cable Spotlights: Better suited for a contemporary setting, track lighting will look right at home in any room at home. The modern concept is quite easy to get your head round, it’s simply a spotlight fitted to a track, in which you can move it along or pivot the head to direct the light in any way you want. We talked before about hanging spotlights over decorative wall features; with a track, you can position it opposite, giving you the art gallery feel. Fitting a track all around your ceiling gives you both ambience and accent lighting, your room is illuminated but the light is beaming where you want it to.

Recessed Spotlights: The most versatile of them all. Recessed lights are so unobtrusive and fit perfectly into your home, with the right planning and layout. They can

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

41

Out and About near

Church Stretton

By Rob Taylor “Top notch walking boots can cost an arm and a leg these days,” asserts the salesman in Outdoor specialist retailer Millets, before continuing, “You definitely want a pair engineered with GoreTex and a reliable waterproofing system.”

I stare at him blankly as he expands into heavy-duty detail, which is full of jargon; stuff like: “ultra-lightweight microporousexpanded Polytetrafluoroethylene membrane.”

In short, it would seem that today picking a new pair of boots can 42

be a complicated business that requires a grasp of degree-level chemistry, so if you’re on the hunt for some it’s worth taking your time, but if you have a pair already and just want to get out into the great outdoors then I have just the place to visit: Church Stretton.

as “Little Switzerland” in the 19th Century – however, it is its situation inside a wooded valley, slap bang in the middle of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that pulls in most people today – especially outdoorsy types fond of anoraks and Thermos flasks.

Right on our doorstep – although the Shropshire Hills are readily accessible from the entire West Midlands, and via the M5 and M6, from many other parts of the country too – Church Stretton is at the heart of it all: a small but busy market town; 13 miles south of Shrewsbury and 16 miles north of Ludlow, it retains much of its Edwardian character and supports a variety of independent shops, traditional tea rooms, pubs and restaurants, plus a unique antiques emporium. Thus it has bags of charm – enough in fact for it to have been known affectionately

Popularly referenced in the poetry of A. E Housman, these

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

‘blue remembered hills’ also provided the backdrop to Malcolm Saville’s children’s stories and can be enjoyed via 37 different official walking routes.

Church Stretton can in fact lay claim to being the first town in the West Midlands to be awarded ‘Walkers are Welcome’ status, because of the litany of way-marked walks available for all abilities.

Start at Carding Mill Valley you can discover the natural water feature Victorian visitors called a “miniature Niagara”, the picturesque Lightspout Waterfall. Anyone familiar with locally-bottled Stretton Hills spring water may be interested to follow the route of the Victorian pipe previously used to carry water from the top of the valley up to the highest point of the Long Mynd.

At the top you can take in fantastic views across Shropshire and beyond. Join a local walking club for more or check out Church Stretton’s Walking Festival in June. This area is also rich with over 20 miles of bridleways for cyclists and horse-riders.

Look east to see ‘600 million years ago’ given form and character by Caer Caradoc, with its Iron Age hill-fort; the view west will take you up through the historic Rectory Wood and onto the wild heather and sheep-covered Long Mynd, as well as to the ancient barrows and hollows, scoured out in the Ice Age, known locally as “batches”. Perhaps the area’s most famous site is Carding Mill Valley, where there can be found many more activities such as bird-watching, geology, pond-dipping and astronomy. And if you’re in the market for something a little more dynamic, there’s always Long Mynd Archers. This is an archery club that boasts 10 GB accredited coaches who can take you from beginner to international competitor.

Home to BBC2’s ‘Victorian Farm’ series, Acton Scott Historic Working Farm is another mustvisit destination. So too is 100-year-old Church Stretton Golf Club, which boasts both an illustrious past – big names like Sandy Lyle, Ian Woosnam and Henry Cotton have all played there – and dazzling panoramic views.

Evidently the beautiful Shropshire Hills provide the ideal setting for just about everything that’s great about the great outdoors – just be sure to remember your walking boots.

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43

H o u se of S ande r son lives on :

The Little House of Sanderson

For almost half a century David Raybould has supplied his customers with a fine selection of products - and excellent customer service - from his store, House of Sanderson, that’s located at 135-139 Dudley Road, Brierley Hill.

Over the years the store has earned a great reputation and a loyal client base, with customers enjoying the unique charm of the showroom that has remained virtually unchanged since it opened in 1969.

Retiring from the business in March 2017, David will be closing the showroom, but it certainly won’t be the end for the company, as David’s daughter, Jane Grigoris explains: “I’ll be continuing the company – that’s now rebranded as The Little House of Sanderson – from a brand new showroom, a couple of doors down from the original site.”

“We have a wonderful selection of both traditional and contemporary designs to choose from including brands like Sanderson, William Morris, Harlequin, Clark and Clark and Prestigious.

A re-upholstery service is available for smaller items, such as dining chairs and headboards, which ensures the fabrics in your room will match perfectly.

And there’s plenty more; Ashley Wilde, Blendworth, Chatham Glyne, and Hardy’s feature too.

The company offers free quotations for all of the services they offer and can put customers’ in-touch with a trusted and experienced fitter, who’ll be able to take care of all aspects of installation.

All fabrics are usually delivered within a couple of days of placing the order.

And if you need help or advice with anything, just ask the team:

“We offer a full making service, although customers are not obliged to have the goods made-up. Our ‘buy only’ service allows customers to simply purchase the fabric.”

“Our wonderful members of staff are always keen to help clients and offer advice. We’re all really friendly and approachable and enjoy helping our clients find what they’re looking for.”

And there are five members of staff at Little House of Sanderson who work on-site to make all-manner of curtains – including soft furnishings - that are exceptionally well priced.

Every item and service on offer at the store is competitively priced, meaning that at The Little House of Sanderson you really can have it all; excellent service, superior products and all at an impressive value-for-money price.

“Excellent customer service is an essential part of what we do and that’ll be no different at The Little House of Sanderson.”

“Our on-site sewists are able to create practically anything our customers want, curtains - with eyelets, pinch or pencil pleats - pelmets, swags and tails, nets and voiles, bed spreads, roman blinds, box cushions and cushion covers. They also take care of any alterations and now offer clothing alterations too.”

The new store is packed-full of all-manner of brands and soft furnishings – in styles to suit all home interiors - and there are

The Little House of Sanderson’s experienced sewists can even make patterns from samples brought in by their customers.

Located at 123, Dudley Road, Little House of Sanderson will keep all of the values alive that House of Sanderson was best known for.

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many books of wallpaper which customers can order from too.

Owner, Jane Grigoris

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

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45

The brand new Lighting Majestic showroom is now open showcasing hundreds of products in a stunning range of displays.

Situated on the first floor of Junction 2 Interiors on the Wolverhampton Road, the showroom is open 7 days a week to the public - ideal for anyone in the West Midlands region.

With a selection of lights to see for every room, style and budget, why not stop by and speak to our helpful and knowledgeable staff?

NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Monday to Saturday - 9am - 6pm Sunday - 10:30am - 4pm Lighting Majestic @ Junction 2 Interiors 870 Wolverhampton Road, Oldbury Birmingham, B69 4RS 46

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Enjoy thE diffErEncE • Large selection of cards and gifts for all occasions • Bags, homeware, watches and more from Orla Kiely • Jewellery from Espree and Equilibrium • Beautiful gifts for new baby and christening • Bags, homeware and much more from Cath Kidston

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Specialists in all types of Blinds Vertical - Fabric, Wood and PVC Venetian - Wood & Aluminium Rollers Including Blackout • Awnings and Canopies Romans • Woodweave • Velux • Conservatory Blinds

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

The Blind Experts

– Val Hever With more than thirty years’ experience in the trade, Val Hever are the experts when it comes to blinds.

From their Tettenhall Woodbased showroom, the familyrun team supply only the finest quality products and boast an impressive selection of blinds, as owner, Val Hever explains: “We work hard to provide our clients with the latest and best products and we pride ourselves on the excellent customer service that we offer.”

Supplying all manner of blinds - everything from verticals to vision - the company have something for every home.

“With so much choice available, selecting the right blind for your house can be difficult, that’s why we’re always on-hand to help you find the perfect product for you.”

Offering advice on all types of blinds - as well as textures, colours and fit - and showcasing the most recent innovations in motorisation, there’s no doubt that you’ll find just what you’re looking for when you pay a visit to Val Hever.

“We’ve got everything you’d expect - vertical blinds, roman blinds and roller blinds - as well as the latest products like vision, visage and perfect fit blinds.”

Vision is an innovative window blind that features two layers of translucent and opaque horizontal striped fabric. The front layer moves independently of the back allowing

the stripes to glide between each other, creating an open and closed effect with limitless light control.

“Vision blinds are extremely popular at the moment, so are our perfect fit blinds.”

“Perfect fit blinds are fitted to UPVC windows in a cassette attachment which completely fills the space, leaving no gaps whatsoever.”

And venetians, pleated and roller blinds can all be installed as perfect fit.

There’s a brand new product that’s just been introduced at Val Hever, Visage blinds.

“Visage blinds have just arrived and they’re already really popular with our customers.”

A cross between venetian and roller blinds, visage blinds are made up of two layers of soft fabric, connected by horizontal sheer vanes that filter sunlight whilst maintaining different levels of privacy and UV protection as the blind is raised or lowered.

For those who want something a bit different though, there are the ultra-fashionable shutters.

“Shutters give a gorgeous look in any home – whether it’s traditional or modern- and there are no restrictions when it comes to window size or shape.”

Shutters can be shaped to fit any type of window - even circular or sloping designs - and they can even provide a complete blackout effect.

“Our blackout shutters combine shutters and blackout blinds to eliminate all light seepage.”

Motorisation is enormously popular with customers at Val Hever too: “More and more people are choosing motorisation for their blinds as it’s so convenient. It’s also completely affordable.”

Sharing their showroom with Virgo Interiors, customers can find the best selection of curtains, carpets, lighting and accessories at the showroom when they pay the blind specialists a visit.

So, why not update your home interior this spring with a visit to Val Hever Blinds at No.72?

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

49

SAINT PATRICK’S DAY Saint Patrick is credited with taking Christianity to Ireland.

Saint Patrick stained glass window from Cathedral of Christ the Light, Oakland, CA

Before his arrival, the Druids held sway. Their religion was highly ritualistic and based on sun worship. However they did believe in the immortality of the soul, a concept they shared with the ‘new religion’ Saint Patrick introduced.

Patrick was born somewhere in Scotland. His name at birth was Maewyn and although the exact date remains unknown, it has been established at between 373 and 395 AD. When he was sixteen, his village was attacked

by Irish marauders. He was captured and taken to Ireland, where he was held captive and made to tend his captors’ sheep.

It was during this period that he began to have the visions that governed the rest of his life. His visions were also instrumental in helping him escape from captivity to the continent of Europe.

For the next eighteen years he remained in France studying at the monastery of Saint Martin of Tours. He then entered the priesthood and was eventually made a bishop. He came to the notice of Pope Celestine I, who gave him the name of Patrick and sent him to Ireland as a missionary.

His campaign to convert the ‘natives’ was somewhat revolutionary for the times and he was forced to write an explanation of his activities. The work known as ‘Confession’ is the source of the little we do know of his origins and life.

During his campaign to banish the Druidic beliefs, numerous legends

St Patrick’s statue at Saul, County Down

50

arouse around him. His progress through Ireland was preceded by a drummer, and the legend goes that the noise of the drum frightened the snakes from the land. The last snake was resistant, so the Saint tricked it into a box, which he then flung into the sea.

The importance of the shamrock came from his use of the threeleaved plant to illustrate the concept of the Trinity. It is worth noting however, that the shamrock already was an ancient and important symbol in Celtic fertility rites.

Celebration of the day involves wearing an item of green clothing and a bunch of shamrock in the lapel. The day is usually considered one for celebration, and wherever Irish immigrants are to be found, Saint Patrick’s Day is sure to be celebrated with dedication and enthusiasm.

America is a case in point, and in cities all over the USA, there are parades and celebrations.

The New York parade has in fact become world famous.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

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51

Grand Theatre COMPETITION energy, and is ‘a fresh new Great British Musical’ (The Times) that will make your spirits soar.

One lucky reader can win 2 tickets to see SUNNY AFTERNOON on Tuesday 18th April 2017 at 7.30pm at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre.

Featuring the iconic hits You Really Got Me, Waterloo Sunset, Dedicated Follower of Fashion, All Day and All of the Night, Lola, Sunny Afternoon and many more, this production fizzes with

With music and lyrics by The Kinks’ frontman Ray Davies (Olivier Award for Outstanding Achievement in Music), a new book by Joe Penhall and direction by Edward Hall, Sunny Afternoon’s faultless musicianship and brilliant songs come together for a moving portrayal of The Kinks’ amazing journey during the youthful, rebellious 1960s.

Tickets for Sunny Afternoon from 18 – 22 April 2017 are on sale now at the Grand Theatre Box Office.

Winner of the 2015 Olivier Award for Best New Musical, Sunny Afternoon rock ‘n’ rolls its way into the Grand Theatre from Tuesday 18 – Saturday 22 April 2017, telling the captivating tale of how one of Britain’s greatest bands, The Kinks, rose to stardom.

Step into swinging 60s Britain and discover how The Kinks found their definitive sound that rocked a nation and influenced generations.

Feel the euphoric highs and experience the power of a live Kinks performance as we witness the bands beginnings, as brothers Dave and Ray Davies join forces and write their first songs, discover how they got their risqué name, relive their barnstorming debut on Top of the Pops, their infamous American tour and their triumphant comeback.

To book your seats please go online at www.grandtheatre.co.uk or contact the Box Office by calling 01902 42 92 12.

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and send it on a postcard with your name, address and telephone number to Town & Village Life Magazine or email info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk by Friday 7th April 2017.

Which two brothers joined forces to form the Kinks?

A) Mark and David Knopfler B) Dave and Ray Davies C) Gary and Martin Kemp D) Noel and Liam Gallagher 52

Competition Terms and Conditions Please send postal entries to Town & Village Life Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY or email info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk.

To be received no later than Friday 7th April 2017. Winners to collect tickets from the box office on the evening of the performance.

Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash or alternative prize nights available. Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

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53

Blacks Vets welcomes exotic pet specialist to the family time, this can cover a broad range of species, from snakes, spiders, scorpions and lizards to birds, rabbits, guinea pigs and other small furry mammals.

If you’re the proud owner of an exotic pet, we have some great news to share with you!

We are delighted to welcome renowned specialist, Marie Kubiak, to the Blacks team. Based at our Lye surgery, Marie is an RCVS Recognised Specialist in Zoo and Wildlife Medicine with a Diploma in Zoolological Medicine, making her one of the highest qualified exotic species vets in the region.

In veterinary terms, ‘exotic’ applies to any animal that is no longer in its natural habitat, so unlike dogs and cats which have been domesticated over

Growing up near Croydon, Marie was fascinated by animals and knew from an early age that she wanted to be a vet. Whilst at university she adopted two corn snakes from a friend and discovered her passion for reptiles, which helped her decide to make exotic animals her specialism.

After many years of intensive study, Marie now lectures across the UK and overseas as well as consulting at Drayton Manor Zoo. Her zoo work is extremely varied treating patients from tiny geckos to tigers and other big cats.

Marie has also built an excellent reputation for treating rabbits and is regularly asked to provide second opinions on difficult cases. Dental problems make up a significant proportion of cases and Marie is passionate about promoting awareness of good rabbit dental hygiene to owners.

When asked about some of her most memorable cases, Marie is spoilt for choice. “I once had to perform a cesarean section on a 14ft Boa Constrictor which involved making six individual

Marie Kubiak BVSc Cert VP (ZM) DZooMed MRCVS incisions down the length of the body to help release the babies. I have also performed a wing amputation on a Crane and have spayed a Panamanian Night Monkey. You could certainly never say that my job is boring!” she comments.

“I absolutely love the variety of my work as no two days are ever the same. I’ve been privileged to treat some amazing species over the course of my career and I am really excited to be working with the team at Blacks to bring their high standards of care to a wider range of animals.” Marie concludes.

So, if you’re an exotic pet owner looking for first class care, knowledge and treatment, Marie is available for consultations every Wednesday at our Lye surgery. Please call 01384 897632 for an appointment or visit www.blacksvets.co.uk for further information.

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

55

Ca n n o c k

Caravan Accessories

helping you enjoy the great outdoors

If you’re looking forward to taking your caravan out on the open road this spring, then you’ll need to pay a visit to Cannock Caravan Accessories first.

Stocking everything caravanners could possibly need – as well as plenty for motorhome owners and campers too - the independent family-run business supplies customers with an impressive range of products from industry-leading brands.

The Team explains: “Caravanning and camping is as popular as it’s ever been as more and more people want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and seek out an adventure – or maybe just some peace and quiet - in the great outdoors.

And Cannock Caravan Accessories can provide clients with all those essential – and luxury – items that’ll make their trip complete.

56

“We’ve got an enormous range of products on sale at our 12,000sq ft store. Our caravan accessory ranges include everything from gas fittings, electric equipment and lighting to TVs, barbeques, homewares and even solar panels.”

Motorhome ranges include storage solutions, mirror guards, bike carriers and Fiamma/Thule products.

Of course, there’s all-manner of spare parts for caravans and motorhomes too.

There’s also an impressive selection of awnings from leading brands like Isabella, Kampa, Dorema, Vango and Ventura.

“Full awnings, inflatable awnings, porch awnings and motorhome awnings are all available at our store (over 30 on display).”

And when it comes to camping, there’s plenty to choose from as well: “You’ll find everything you need for a camping trip, apart from the tent!”

With more than 40 years of experience in the industry

the team have worked hard to bring their customers the finest selection of caravanning and camping accessories.

“We pride ourselves on the excellent customer service that we offer. We are a friendly team, knowledgeable and always on-hand to offer advice.”

The company has built an excellent reputation based on the excellent service and topquality products that they offer.

And you don’t have to just visit the store to benefit because the company have a comprehensive website that’s complete with all of the products you’d find in store.

“Any website queries are dealt with by all members of the team in store - who can be contacted by telephone - and our online customers can also email our different departments directly.”

So, whether you’re a seasoned caravanner or maybe just caravan curious, why not visit Cannock Caravan Accessories and start planning your getaway this spring?

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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D i s c o v e r

C o u nt r y B askets …

Visit Country Baskets for a shopping experience like no other.

Whether you love floristry, crafting or even home décor – with over 20,000 items we have something for everyone!

Brand new items are landing on our shelves every week, including our fabulous new Outdoor Living Garden range that is available instore now. From gorgeous furniture

58

at affordable prices to pots and planters in lovely designs, we have everything you need to freshen up your home and garden this spring!

With Mother’s Day and Easter only round the corner we also have a huge collection of fresh and inspiring seasonal product, pretty pastels and beautiful bold colours that will brighten your day. Our brand new collections of Artificial Flowers reflect this season’s trends, rustic spring bundles and wild flowers hand tied with twine, lemon yellow roses and beautiful blush

peonies that are perfectly paired with new pottery and glassware to update any home interior instantly.

Keep an eye out for some fabulous bargains in-store, starting at just 10p! We regularly fill our bargain bins so it’s always worth popping in to your local store at Stourbridge.

Not already a member of Country Baskets? No problem, register for free in-store or online today!

Plus, new customers will receive 10% off their first online order at www.countrybaskets.co.uk

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

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Voucher is valid for in-store use only and must be presented at the time of purchase. Voucher cannot be exchanged for cash and cannot be used in part transactions. Single use. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer.

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

59

The Garden in March a grassy area till the autumn, you will get a healthier lawn by far next year.

This has been in many ways an odd winter.

It has been very wet, and of course there has been a lot of frost and wind.

Apart from some snow in February, it has generally been mild, and this could be the source of some unwanted disasters in many a garden come the full glory of spring. It is worth remembering that March too can be very wintery with plenty of frost, ice, snow, rain and howling gales to complete the miserable picture. On the other hand, some March days have brought a miniheat-wave and long dry spells, so you can never be sure. Quite what it will do this year is anyone’s guess, not least the Weatherman’s! So if you are preparing for the onrush of the growing season, be prepared for anything and everything. Take no chances, cater for the prevailing conditions but be ready for whatever nature decides to throw at us.

up and anyway, better late crops of whatever than nothing at all.

Nothing is more certain than loss of crops and specimens if they have been put out in bad conditions and been got at by the weather Now is the time to sow annuals or plant up with bedding plants for colour this year. Do remember to give wind protection however, and have frost protection ready for those tender young specimens. If you are planning to plant fruit trees or bushes for next year, you can make use of the ground now and help get it really fit for autumn planting by heavily applying manure, then planting potatoes, intercropped with beans and peas. This is a far better preparation than leaving the ground fallow. It is also a good policy to pursue if you intend to lay an area to a new lawn. By giving up the idea of

Before you sow, check the soil’s temperature. It must be at least 13 degrees C., both morning and evening. If it is colder than this, delay the operation or sow your seeds in boxes and keep in a cool, airy but frost free place, and be prepared to prick out the seedlings when the time is right. Having due regard to the amount of ‘moisture’ about this year, dress your seeds prior to sowing with a little fungicidal / insecticide powder. Make your own up by mixing a 50/50 combination of a thiram or captan fungicide with a derris or BHC insecticide. This will give your new stock good protection against damping-off, foot-rot, flea beetles, weevils, and wireworms, and takes but a minute or two to do. Sow seeds at 2 to 3 times their own width and cover lightly depending on your soil type. On light soils that dry out quickly, cover the seeds with moist peat, leaf mould or compost that has been passed through a sieve. On heavy dense soils cover with sharp sand, perlite and vermiculite. On loamy, well-crumbled soil cover with sieved topsoil tamped down lightly.

The thing to remember when either sowing or planting is to employ a light hand. Plant seeds sparingly even at the risk of having to transplant later on to fill gaps.

Plant seedlings well apart too, because plants that do contract the various diseases are just waiting for somewhere to light upon, and they will find it hard to spread their maladies along a row with rather wide gaps.

Normally March is a busy month for the gardener. Final preparations for the new season should be well under way and sowing and planting out of doors are important jobs to get on with. What you have to remember at this time of year normally, and this year in particular is, the state of the soil and the climate must dictate what and when you do the various jobs, NOT the calendar. If you have to put back sowing and planting, well so be it. Nature has a wonderful way of catching herself 60

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Looking forward to spring 2017

– KEY DESIGN TRENDS Rethinking Outdoor Experiences

As we look forward to the start of spring, Martin Neenan, Garden Creations’ General Manager reviews some of the top trends in garden design, which are set to continue this year.

As we know, an increasing number of homeowners are turning their gardens into a space they can use all year round.

This can be as simple as creating cosy sheltered areas where you can cook, eat and socialise around a fire pit, to making the garden an integral part of the home using complementary hard-landscaping materials. This trend is also now moving into more elaborate designs, including the emergence of outdoor kitchens.

Colouring Structures There is now a real demand for customers wanting more colours

out of their structures. This can be achieved by painting fences, sheds or structures like pergolas in black, dark green or dark blue. These dark surfaces also provide the perfect backdrop for vibrant planting schemes.

Low Maintenance For this piece we couldn’t leave out the growing popularity of artificial grass. This is a trend set to stay with more and more options being developed for homeowners to simulate the look and feel of real grass.

There are lots more we could focus on, from patios to driveways and even cool garden gadgets that are being integrated into modern designs – our favourite is the underground patio drinks cooler!

Come and talk to us to find out more and gain professional advice from our award-winning garden designers. Call 01902 376500 or visit www.boningale-garden-creations.co.uk

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So why not contact Martin for a free consultation to discuss your dream garden further.

inspiration@boningale.co.uk

01902 376500

TO LEARN MORE, VISIT: WWW.BONINGALE-GARDEN-CREATIONS.CO.UK Facebook.com/BoningaleGardenCreations

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

@boningalegarden

61

Meet the boss

A soul of the soil who’s true to her roots When it comes to gardens, our outdoor living experience is limited by only imaginings – and budgets.

Bringing the ‘garden into the home’ with strategic planting views, patio pot arrays and a superabundance of decorative features has become a national passion.

TV celebrity horticulturists and green-fingered makeover rescue teams have set the bar high – not a bad thing, perhaps, but a reality check on costing and the availability of plants can often pose an insurmountable challenge.

It may be great television, but in realising the “instant garden” dream, even the most ardent weekend grower could probably find some wise counsel with Ann Winwood, Town and Village Life’s gardening columnist and a joint director of Lealan Garden Centre.

A true soul of the soil, she was first introduced to the magic of growing seeds as a young girl after her grandfather, Fred Lealan, purchased an eight-acre plot between Wolverhampton and Bridgnorth.

Now in third generation ownership – Ann juggles the dayto-day running of the business with brother, Peter – she recalls: “From toddlers we were both part of life here [Lealan]. I grew up enjoying the outdoors and I could never have settled into an office type of job. I came here right from school.”

A genuine family business on the Bridgnorth Road, she adds: “My father, James, worked here with his sister, Bessie, and met my mother, Phyllis, here in the ’50s, so as a youngster growing up in the ’60s my life was always around plants.

“Back then we were producing tomatoes and bedding plants which were sold at the old retail market in Wolverhampton.”

62

Ann Winwood, director of Lealan Garden Centre

In those formative years ‘garden centres’ were very different to what they have evolved into today. Taking ownership of the acreage in 1935, Fred was allowed to cultivate only vegetables under a Home Front farming initiative after the outbreak of the Second World War. “He had a fruit and veg shop on The Green in Darlaston until he bought the land that the garden centre stands on in 1935.” says Ann. “We’ve always been growers and it defines our business,” she stresses.

It clearly is the central pillar of the company ethos and something of which Ann is fiercely proud.

“Everything produced here is sold here. In that respect we are still traditional growers.

“As the business has developed our range of stock has increased dramatically with all the chemicals, composts and sundries, stoneware, gravels and garden furniture. But growing plants is the main thing. We have over an acre of shrub area, plus the fields for growing wallflowers.”

Sitting in her office reflecting on the latest delivery of rattan weave garden furniture – “it’s still in the boxes” – Ann says: “It’s February and already we’re planning for Christmas, ordering cards, baubles and

other decorations and thinking of displays – it’s a huge undertaking.

In this business you’re constantly planning ahead.”

Knowledgeable –“I’ve been doing this more years than I care to remember” – approachable and with a transparent, earthy honesty, Ann admits the childhood fascination of seeing a seed germinate, mature and come into flower has never abandoned her and clearly enjoys ‘talking shop’.

“People come in with their gardening problems and we try our best to help, but it can sometimes be hard. Gardening is a science by itself. The same plant can react very differently with garden pests, soil acidity, light, watering and drainage all having a bearing,” she says.

As for current trends: Outdoor living fires a lot of interest – bistro and larger dining table sets, quality wooden benches, the rattan range and pots for planting.

There’s also an emerging interest in more traditional plants, “but blocks of solid colour are currently in fashion,” says Ann. And the future: Getting better – gardens in wintertime can be neglected and sad places, but with the Met Office predicting high summer temperatures it’s looking like Ann’s going to be busy. Fingers crossed!

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Spring in the garden

at Lealans Garden Centre

Tips are provided by Ann Winwood, Lealans Garden Centre, Wolverhampton

Dead head bulbs particularly daffodils, leaving the green foliage on to send nutrients back to the bulb and top dress with fertilizer.

This should give you a good display of flowers next year. Remember to dead head spring flowering bedding plants as well to encourage more flowers. If it’s been damp and mild pansies and violas can develop black leaf spot at this time of year – remove the worst affected leaves and dispose of and spray with a fungicide to discourage the spread.

Spring is the ideal time to split snowdrops into smaller clumps.

Many summer flowering bulbs and tubers can be planted outside as the weather warms up – Lilies, Canna, Pineapple flower and Summer Snowflakes. Always plant lily bulbs on their side so that water doesn’t lie in the scales and cause them to rot. Dahlias can be started off in pots inside, then planted out once the danger of frosts has receded. Begonias should be pressed gently into potting compost, curved side down – never completely covered, water and keep on a light sunny windowsill or in a heated greenhouse.

Remove any old growth from perennials and divide if required.

Put in stakes, canes and plant supports before they get too tall and flop over. Slugs and snails love young herbaceous shoots, especially in damp conditions.

Use a deterrent to prevent the wholesale slaughter of your plants.

As the weather becomes increasingly mild, thoughts start turning to the lawn. We recommend the use of MO Bacter to moss and feed the lawn naturally. It feeds the lawn over a 12-week period and contains bacteria which are naturally found in the soil and which when added to fertiliser will consume material like thatch and moss, making it unnecessary to rake or scarify after treatment.

Annual herbs can be sown now – fennel, parsley, savoury, dill all need replenishing every year.

Perennial herb varieties can also be planted, remember to water and feed regularly so you can keep cropping throughout the year.

Watch out for late frosts if you’ve got potatoes in tubs with plenty of leaf growth – always protect at night. Sow your first and second early potatoes followed by maincrops, again watching out for late frosts once the foliage appears.

OPEN DAILY

Bridgnorth Road, Shipley, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7EZ

Don’t forget

Mothers’ Day Sunday 26th March

Tel 01902 700209 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

We have a stunning range of planted arrangements and pot plants.

Full range of plug plants now in stock.

Huge range of good quality shrubs, herbaceous, trees, conifers always ready for sale.

www.lealansgardencentre.co.uk 63

Profence

Domestic, Commercial and Industrial Fencing Established for over thirty years, Profence has long been meeting the fencing requirements of domestic, commercial and industrial clients alike.

Having become one of the leading companies in the trade - thanks to a commitment to excellent and efficient service in every job they undertake - the Wombournebased business has built an extensive and varied client base across the West Midlands.

Owner Shane Gamble explains: “I started the company back in 1983; over the years we’ve grown and grown and are now a well-established and trusted name in the business.”

“We manufacture, supply and install a range of different products which meet the requirements of each of our client’s individual needs.

We’ve got palisade fences, welded mesh fences, powered gates, timber panels, picket fences, as well as close board designs too.”

Working closely with a number of local authorities, Profence carry out work for various schools and colleges across the region: “We do jobs for Wolverhampton, Walsall, Cannock and Dudley Councils, which means that we are contracted to work on all manner of different institutions.”

And that’s not all: “We work with all types of property and buildings, and we offer advice throughout the design and installation stages to ensure that everything runs smoothly.”

Shane places a great emphasis on ensuring that all of his team are fully trained, so that they can offer the best levels of service to his customers.

“I employ 40 members of staff and they are all experienced in their role. Our clients can rest assured that they are receiving the best service. We offer free no-obligation quotations, guarantee all of our work and never ask for money up-front.”

It’s not only providing great customer service that ProFence are concerned with though. The company take great care to ensure that the products they use are sourced responsibly, that’s why they’re proud to be FSC certified.

Kate Scott, Shane’s daughter and Office Manager at ProFence explains: “The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an international network designed to promote

responsible management of the world’s forests. It provides standard setting, trademark assurance and accreditation services for companies who are interested in responsible forestry.”

“We want to ensure that we’re doing our part in helping to protect forests, by sourcing wood that comes from sustainable sources.”

ProFence also hold Chain of Custody (COC) certification: “COC certification provides independent evidence that forest products originate from well-managed forests. It helps consumers and businesses make informed decisions about the timber products they buy.”

And, the entire ProFence team work together to ensure that the chain of custody process runs smoothly.

“We only buy from companies that can supply FSC timber, when it arrives we check it has all of the correct paperwork, so that when our customers ask for FSC products we can ensure their delivery notes and invoices include our COC code.”

It’s values like these that set ProFence apart from the competition.

L/R – Andy Vaughan and Nigel Dolan (Contracts managers), Kate Scott (office manager) and owner Shane Gamble

64

Whatever plans you’ve got in mind for your garden fencing, contact the team today to make your plans a reality and enjoy the excellent service ProFence has to offer. town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Manufacturers, Suppliers & Installers of all types of domestic and commercial fencing and gates.

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65

Suppliers of high quality firewood Shop and buy online

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or visit us at

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66

10 Pineways, Wordsley, Stourbridge DY8 5JH

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Local company services all types of boiler

for just £39!

Many people put off having their boiler serviced because of cost. Now, with local company Gas First servicing all makes of boiler for an all-inclusive £39, there really is no excuse to put lives at risk any longer.

Based in Kingswinford, Gas First utilises the very latest combustion testing equipment and provide gas safety certificates after each service. Gas First engineer Martin explains: “ The special offer really is an inclusive price, we do not charge for add ons and we do NOT attempt to sell additional services. Customers can be assured that they are dealing with a gas safe registered engineer, fully trained and insured to offer a comprehensive boiler service. Servicing normally takes one hour.”

Anything else? “We pride ourselves on punctuality; if we say 2 pm we really do mean it.” Martin added “... and if someone is not ready for their annual service yet, they can still book now and secure the offer price, even if it’s not due till next year”.

Services can be booked by telephone or you can book online at gasfirst.net

So what happens if the service takes longer? Martin continues “a couple of weeks ago I spent over 2 hours sorting out a problem during a service. The customer was quite surprised when I said it was still just £39. People seem to think there is a catch, there isn’t. The offer is not FROM £39, it is £39. The offer is genuine and this is the amount you will pay.”

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

67

Treat yourself to a Hog Roast from Scratch Crunchy crackling & succulent lean Pork professionally served with all your favourites

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For a free quote please call

01902 687818 or 07710 485036 Woodbank Road, Sedgley, DY3 3NW

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Star Agro are producers and importers of sustainable and ethical seafood, with our own integrated hatcheries, farms and production sites.

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69

Win a meal for two at

Wombourne Ta n d o o r i

– and arrive in style with

Signature Luxury Cars

opposite the village green since 1989. The restaurant is air conditioned and offers a modern, comfortable, clean and relaxed environment.

Wombourne Tandoori has up to 70 recipes not listed on the menu and creative additions are available to suit all diners’ preferences.

Rafique Miah said “it’s hard for my competitors to copy, the recipes that are not on the menu help to define us. They are our own and will remain so.”

Their menu consists of Bengali, Tandoori and other Asian specialities which are famous throughout the Indian sub-continent.

Multi-award- winning Wombourne Tandoori is celebrating yet another accolade by being named ‘Best Restaurant 2016 West Midlands region’ by Master Chef Promotions.

To celebrate the occasion, owner Rafique Miah is giving one lucky reader the chance to win a fabulous meal for two people including a bottle of wine.

Wombourne’s premier and longest established Indian restaurant has been situated in the High Street

Arrive VIP style: the lucky winner of the competition will be collected from the doorstep by Signature Luxury Cars and chauffeur driven to the restaurant and then taken home at the end of the evening.

This local company covers all UK destinations no matter where you need to go. For further details visit www.signatureluxurycars.co.uk

To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize simply answer the following two questions correctly:

1. In what year was Wombourne Tandoori established?

2. What is Signature Luxury Cars’ website address?

E-mail your answers to: info@townandvillagelifemag. co.uk or send on a postcard to Town & Village Life Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY, please include your name, address and telephone number.

All entries to be received by Friday 7th April 2017.

Competition Terms and Conditions. To enter readers have to be at least 18 years of age. Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and notified by telephone. Prize is a 3 course meal for two with a selected bottle of house wine (maximum prize value £50). Prize valid Sunday to Thursday only. Prize to be taken by Thursday 25th May 2017. Booking date subject to availability and any additional orders will have to be paid for separately. No cash or alternative prize available.

70

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Travel in Style with

Signature Luxury Cars the company can take you anywhere you want to go.

“If you’ve got a special occasion to attend, why not take the stress and strain out of travelling there - and make it even more memorable - by letting us drive you in style?”

Whether you’re going on holiday or leaving for a business trip, Signature Luxury Cars will get you to your destination on time.

Whatever you’ve got planned this new year, make sure that you travel there in style, with Signature Luxury Cars’ professional chauffeur service.

And, corporate clients are always pleased to know that their personnel will receive only the best service.

“We offer relaxed, discreet and efficient travel for your business personnel.”

“We’re a discreet, professional luxury chauffeur service that’s based in the West Midlands and we pride ourselves on the excellent service that we offer our clients,” explains owner, Andrew Hickman.

Covering all UK destinations, including airports and seaports,

The company cover all UK sporting events too, so that you can enjoy door to door service, whatever the event.”

“Over the past two decades I’ve worked for Chairmen, Managing Directors and corporate VIPs, in the electricity industry as well as local government.”

In fact, Andrew spent the last 14 years of his career working as chauffer to Wolverhampton’s civic heads and in his role he has chauffeured the most senior civil servants, as well as visiting royalty from overseas.

“My career as a professional driver has taken me the length and breadth of the country, as well as continental Europe.”

With surprisingly competitive prices, it’s easy for anyone to enjoy a little luxury with Signature.

“Our R-Class Mercedes is complete with air-conditioning, privacy glass, DVD entertainment systems and space for up to seven people.”

So why not contact Andrew today and enjoy the chauffeurdriven experience?

With over 25 years’ experience working as a professional driver, Andrew knows exactly how to provide the very best service for every one of his clients.

S I G N AT U R E | L U X U R Y C A R S Luxury Chauffeurs for all Occasions

Airport Transfers • Weddings • Sporting Events • Concerts Anniversaries • Proms • Birthdays • And any other Special Occasion

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“From A to B without a worry” Locally based, covering all UK destinations no matter where you need to go, we can meet and exceed your expectations of what a chauffeured service should be.

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

71

Food, Drink, Eating Out and Entertainment

Promote your venue to over 35,000 readers with Town & Village Life Magazine To find out how your venue can be featured please call Gisella on 01902 744217.

72

TOWN & VILLAGE

LIFE M AGA Z I N E

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

At Harleys, we are focused on providing that home smoked taste of yesteryear. BBQ isn’t about flash grilling, it’s about slow cooking over a low heat to give you that succulent taste.

The taste of times when food was cooked over open fires, slow roasted in smokehouses, grilled on open coals and baked in stone baked ovens. We are new, we are different and we want you coming back for more. Experience our slow cooked dishes, the Pit Masters rubs, and scrumptious sides and mouth-watering slaw dishes. Our team are renowned for their creative combinations of spices and sauces.

Special OFFer eaders Spring azine R Mag

F F O * % 10 OD Bill age Life

& Vill for Town

YOUryouFpreOsent this advert When

17 th April 20 ursday 13 , excludes rt lid until Th *Offer va present this adve ay Sunday D u when yo Mother’s t valid on o photocopies. drinks, no .N 17 20 26 March

SMOKE HOUSE and Cocktail bar

Open: Monday to Thursday 12pm-9.30pm Friday & Saturday 9am-10pm Sunday 9am-9pm To avoid disappointment please book on 01384 878899 39a Dunsley Road, Kinver DY7 6LU www.harleyssmokehouse.co.uk harleyssmokehouse www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

73

English wine Spr ings for ward at

Halfpenny Green Wi n e E s t a t e The majority, though, are sold through the vineyard’s own on-site shop. Set across three floors, with views over the rolling vines and lush Staffordshire farmland beyond, the shop sells a range of giftware, confectionery, preserves and sweets, as well as the extensive Wine Loft, which offers a range of alcohol, including over 50 artisan British gins. The Wine Loft is also home to the vineyard’s wine tasting sessions, and, brand new for 2017, gin tastings!

On the subject of world-class wines, you’d be forgiven if France, Italy and Australia popped into your head first.

Well, you can now add South Staffordshire to that list! Situated in Bobbington, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate is a family business that has been producing award winning wines for 30 years. Almost 30 acres of vines produce grapes that are turned into 14 different wines by the expert wine making team.

Spring is the most important time of year, as the vines must be carefully monitored and are hand-pruned to ensure the fruit gets as much sun as possible during the summer, ready for harvest later in the year.

The journey of the wine doesn’t end there, though.

The vineyard is also home to a locally renowned restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and daily high teas, as well as cakes, sandwiches, drinks and snacks. Guests can enjoy a glass of still or sparkling wine whilst dining on the homemade produce and daily specials fresh from the kitchen, prepared from local ingredients by the team of chefs. The restaurant also hosts special A La Carte Evenings throughout the year (by booking only), as well as special Sunday lunch menus for Mother’s Day (26th March) and Easter Sunday (16th April).

To learn more about the Wine Estate and the process of wine making, guided public tours are available by booking on selected dates throughout the summer months, and private tours are also available for groups of 15 or more. The site is open to the public 7 days a week 9am - 5pm, and entry is free, making Halfpenny Green Wine Estate a must-visit this spring!

Once the grapes are in, what happens next? The wine making begins! The expert team blend the grape juices and monitor the exact composition of each wine; most importantly, the alcohol content!

This ranges from 11.5% for some of the still whites - like the Gold Medal winning Tom Hill - right up to the dark, fruity 15% full-bodied red - Rondo 2014.

So where do the wines go? They’re sold in farm shops around the Midlands area, and have recently been taken on by M&S and Waitrose in the area, plus the John Lewis Food Hall on Oxford Street.

For further information on any of the above events or to book a table call 01384 221122.

Halfpenny Green Vineyards, Tom Lane, Bobbington, South Staffordshire DY7 5EP.

www.ha l f p e n n y - g re e n - v i n e y a rd s . c o . u k 74

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

A family business, established in 1983, 30 acres of vines are managed by Martin and produce award-winning wines crafted by his son Clive. The acclaimed shop, restaurant, deli and tea room are run by Clive’s wife Lisa, and offer a great day out for visitors.

AWARD-WINNING ENGLISH WINES

LOCAL PRODUCE SHOP & DELI

RENOWNED RESTAURANT & TEA ROOMS

U P COM I NG E V E N TS

mother’s day

easter sunday

food & wine festival

Sunday 26th march

Sunday 16th April

Saturday 10th june

Tom Lane, Bobbington, South Staffs, DY7 5EP visit www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk call 01384 22 11 22

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

75

It’s a place where the weather vane is a flying pig and the Mad Hatter embellishes the décor – a kind of ‘final word’ to the Big Banks that couched their funding snubs for the project in such damning terms.

Now, after six years, Harleys Smokehouse is packing in the diners and defying the gloom-mongers. JOHN NASH samples this American dream experience that still remains quintessentially English.

Date with Bertha

to get the taste buds dancing

76

It doesn’t reek of charring meat, there’s no macho frying pan flashes to distract diners and there’s no room for gimmicks: Welcome to Harleys Smokehouse.

Harleys does not replicate the Land of The Free dining experience, rather it takes only its better attributes, reining back the ‘Big American’ in the migration process.

Like its competition, this new generation restaurant is not much given to millet and quinoa. But it’s there the comparisons end.

And what better way, than to import a smoke oven from the States and install it in a redesigned three-tier building, based on an unlikely

Inspired by owner Terrie Beardsmore’s historic family links on the other side of The Atlantic, she wanted to decant the succulent tastes of slowcooked meats into her own kitchen in the village of Kinver.

assortment of outbuilding in the grounds of Dunsley Hall Hotel.

It is the stuff of dreams – fabulously grandiose in concept, outrageously brave, a plan scorned by bankers – yet, executed in a way that only the best of Black Country could do.

Built around Bertha, the oven that was delayed in port by the hurricane of the same name, everything from design and upwards is the tangible outpouring of Terrie’s visionary approach to business.

With “soul mate” Wilf and son Simon, this family trio has created a unique (believe me

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

This is not chain-branding food, but the prices are still surprisingly realistic.

For mains I chose the chicken swinger (£12.95) – marinated chicken in garlic and fresh herbs from the hall’s walled garden, with mixed peppers and onions.

it is) dining experience and doubtless conjured a few miracles along the way to get there.

A hands-on ethos has driven the project against all the financial odds and now that same diligence is filling tables and establishing this eatery as a must-dine destination.

Since it opened in November 2015, thousands of covers have been served.

Off the beaten track in Dunsley Road and with planning restrictions making signage impossible, the place still managed to buzz on a Wednesday evening – a sure indicator of good food. And keeping an eye on customer satisfaction and her staff was Terrie. Below the radar she might be, but in her own words is “ever vigilant”.

“Since launching it’s gone exceptionally well, but I have to maintain standards,” she adds.

For those seeking modern ambience Harleys is artfully lit with slightly industrial lanterns, there’s music but it’s not invasive and the decorating is classily understated.

It’s wholly unpretentious – just like its owners and, critically, the food.

Each level of the building delivers a distinctly different mood, but they’re seamlessly stitched together with wrought ironwork balustrades, woven with rustic themes.

A staircase from the restaurant takes you to the slightly quieter, relaxed cocktails bar that opened last November on the first level.

Take a few more steps more and you emerge into the tapas area. This is not American at all; if anything it feels ever-so English and is a contented neighbour to the stereotypical country seat a stone’s throw across the courtyard.

For me, Harleys is that rare place where everything seems good on the menu. Yes, it’s smoked; yes, it’s meaty; but these culinary creations are loaded with taste.

Given the large birthday party celebration at the far end of the room and volume of footfall, the first course of wood smoked chicken wings (£6.95) and my friend Gill’s spicy lamb tostadas (£6.95) were commendably dispatched.

We shared the food and the chicken spurted juice like a fruit. Just how good can the humble chicken get!

Moist, full of flavour… messy with the barbecue glaze, but who cares when it’s so comforting?

Similarly, the lamb. spring onion and sour cream mix on toasted corn tacos also set the taste buds singing.

The starters were fresh, light and the epitome of good, honest cooking.

Served on a swinging skewer, with skinny fries, barbecue drizzle and home-made signature coleslaw, the poultry was again cooked beautifully with enough crispy texture in the peppers and purple onion to offer meaningful mouthfuls.

Awakening her primeval instincts, Gill quickly got stuck into her pulled pork burrito (£10.95). Succulent and tender and wrapped in a soft flour tortilla, this main attraction was supported by Mexican rice, spring onion, cheddar and red onion escabeche, sour cream and guacamole. Piping hot, plenty to eat and with fries, again this dish won praise aplenty.

And for desserts? Sorry, we were so full.

Washed down with a pinot or two and a couple of posh coffees it’s now a place high on the social calendar shortlist.

Getting the concept of the Harleys into your head – where cocktails can be in a separate place before or after food, may seem a little obscure.

But none of the words in these columns can do justice to what the Beardsmore family has achieved.

Book a table, it’s worth catching their dream and enjoying this Anglo-American fusion of pleasures.

SMOKE HOUSE and Cocktail bar

Harleys Smokehouse, 39a Dunsley Road, Kinver, DY7 6LU. For table reservations or further details please call 01384 878899, alternatively book via the website. www.harleyssmokehouse.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

77

Rafique with the team from Wombourne Tandoori receiving the Master Chef Promotions award for – Restaurant of the year West Midlands region

Privileged to have an early introduction to proper Indian food in a time when curry houses were homes where his school friend Sohan and his brothers lived, our food critic John Nash reflects on the success of Wombourne Tandoori in the highly respected Midlands’ Master Chef Promotions (MCP) Awards.

Salute to the king on the

curry throne

Finally, there is some weighty recognition of Wombourne Tandoori’s cuisine with this village jewel of Indian subcontinent cooking picking up the coveted West Midlands Restaurant of the Year award.

a few cold beers. Then, over a period of months, I realised this cooking had become less appealing and sadly my favourite restaurant haunts were also uninspiring.

Something had changed and whole Indian food genre that

had been so buoyant in the Black Country was in decline.

I owe my re-awakening to Rafique’s bother, Makham, the chef who managed to capture the essence of food I’d enjoyed from my old friend Sohan’s mother,

It is, without doubt, long overdue as foodies like myself have been writing great reviews on this place for years.

For me the allurement is in the way owner Rafique Miah has managed to successfully fuse the rich, cultural traditions of Indian subcontinent cooking with modern culinary art.

For decades, Friday evenings for me were curry nights – mostly takeaways, washed down with 78

Foyzur (right) and head chef from Blue Ginger with their ‘Best Newcomer of the year’ trophy

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

which she prepared slowly as a love offering to her diners.

I’d been commissioned to review the food at Rafique’s curry house as part of the Wombourne Tandoori silver jubilee.

On a Wednesday evening I was encouraged to find every cover taken and I raved about the dishes served.

You can’t miss Rafique – he’s indisputably the boss and whether he relishes the attention or not, he is local celebrity.

But it was clear after the starters were served there was only one major attraction at this restaurant and it was on the table.

Rafique and Khalid with their trophy

At the time Rafique said: “Many of the recipes have been handed down to our family and are unique to us. My mother’s dishes are served here and the recipes are a guarded secret.” For those wanting to brave something different there are up to another 70 recipes not listed and every dish can become bespoke to suit personal preferences.

With a keen eye to detail and fastidious approach to customer experience, this restaurateur is fiercely proud of what has been achieved on the village square.

For good measure, Rafique’s Blue Ginger takeaway in Moss Grove, Kingswinford, was also named in the MCP awards as Best Newcomer of the Year.

With no intention of being deposed from his curry throne, Rafique is planning more recipe research trips to his homeland to keep the menu fresh.

Long may the magical alchemy of Rafique’s kitchen creations continue to enrich the diets of his customers.

Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant Established 1989

Air conditioned

Cuisine of Bengal

Fully licensed

 FOOD HYGIENE RATING SCHEME 2011-2016

Rafique Miah welcomes you to the longest established Indian Restaurant in Wombourne Village, serving sumptuous Bangladeshi Cuisine for over 28 years. Restaurant of the “We pride ourselves on our Quality of Food, Excellent Customer Service and Customer Satisfaction.”

Recently refurbished in contemporary surroundings, air conditioned and fully licensed.

Our popular Take-away Service is still the best in Wombourne offering 10% off our Menu price.

year West Midlands region 2016

Bookings now being taken for Mothering Sunday 26th March 2016

Tel: 01902 324148 / 324437 Open 7 days including Bank Holidays - 5.30pm until 11.30pm

High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DN www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

facebook.com/wombourne.tandoori

www.wombournetandoori.com 79

Celebrating 40 years in business

The friendly team - Louise, Barb, Ele , Kevin , Jo, Emma

Kingswinford-based hair salon, Jon Kevan, reached a very impressive milestone in February this year - 40 years in business.

When he opened his salon four decades ago, Kevin could never have imagined just how successful his business would become.

“We’ve had an amazing forty years and it’s great to still be here, taking care of our clients,” explains Kevin.

Passionate about hairdressing and keen to provide his clients with the best service, Kevin set out to create a modern and luxurious salon.

“Over the years we’ve worked hard to ensure that we’ve stayed ahead of the latest trends.”

One thing that has never changed though is the friendly welcome that clients receive.

“We’ve always had a great relationship with our clients and really enjoy making them look – and feel - amazing when they come into the salon for a cut or colour.”

Over the years, Kevin has been supported by a team of talented hairdressers. “Lesley Segar was my salon manager and right hand for many, many years before she moved to Bournemouth. Barbara Burt started working for me in 1980 as a junior and she’s still here today.”

And other hairdressers that Kevin has trained over the years have gone on to open their own salons.

Kevin has always valued his team and treated them exceptionally well, sharing his success with them by treating them to many staff holidays abroad.

“We’ve had some amazing staff holidays over the years in locations like Spain and Florida.”

Now, Kevin’s team is madeup of a loyal group of stylists who are equally passionate about the business.

“Barbara, Emma, Jo, Louise, Ellie and Georgia are all fantastic,” adds Kevin.

With a great team, a loyal client base and an excellent reputation, there’s no doubt that Jon Kevan will be here for many, many more years to come.

And the salon has certainly evolved through the decades: “Originally we offered beauty treatments alongside hairdressing from a separate salon upstairs.”

But when a fire ripped through the upstairs of the building in 1985, Kevin decided to not reinstate the beauty salon and instead keep the focus purely on hairdressing.

Updating the salon frequently, to maintain a thoroughly modern feel, and always offering the latest cutting and colouring techniques has meant that Kevin’s client base has continued to expand over the years.

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Kevin Hollies with manager Lesley Segar in 1987

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

ating Celebr of rs 40 Yea g in ssin Hairdre ford! in Kingsw

We create beautiful looking hair L’Oréal Professionnel UK Salon.

Experts in hair colouring, cutting and styling for women, men and children.

To book an appointment please call 01384 273070

www.jonkevan.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Open: Mon-Tue 9am-5pm, Wed 9am-8pm, Thu-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat 8am-4pm

You’ll find us at 18 Market Street, Kingswinford DY6 9JR 81

Spring - Summer 2017 New Collections now on board!

Aristocats aim to provide excellent customer service to women who appreciate quality fashion.

Whatever the event our stylish Spring/Summer designs will take individuals effortlessly to a wide range of functions, casual or formal, daytime, weddings, after six, cocktail or late evening.

Our professional staff are always on hand, if required, to help with decision making and offer alternatives to customers from the West Midlands, Shropshire and further afield from the wide range of fashion designers.

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

• Aldo Martins • Basler • Eugen Klein • Frank Walder • Happy Rainy Days • Joseph Ribkoff • Just White • Michaela Louisa • Olsen • Oui • Rabe

Open Monday to Friday 10am – 5pm, Saturday 10am - 4pm Ample parking behind the premises in New Street or on the road opposite the Esso petrol station.

Co-ordinated Day Wear • Coats • Cocktail & Evening Wear Lingerie • Accessories • Belts • Bags • Jewellery • Hosiery 234www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk Coalway Road, Penn,Wolverhampton WV3 7NN Tel: 01902 344003

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A favourite choice for beauty treatments

Wollaston Beauty Clinic

This well-established salon has long been a favourite within the local area.

Step through the doors of the salon and you’re met with a fantastic selection of beautifully displayed products from industry-leading brands, like bareMinerals, Dermalogica, St Tropez, Environ and High Definition Brows.

You’ll also find a clean and modern interior and a team of friendly staff: “We work hard to create a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere for our customers at the salon. We stock a great selection of products that all of our staff members are fully trained in - so that they can offer expert help and advice to our customers,” explains Salon Manager, Jenny Birch.

“Our customers’ shopping experience is a very personal one, whether they’re looking for a specific moisturiser with an SPF or a gift for a friend, we ensure that we help them find what they need.”

Whatever you’re looking for this Mother’s Day you can be sure to find it at Wollaston Beauty Clinic: “We’ve got everything covered; beauty products, make-up, candles and jewellery. Or why not get your mum a gift voucher so she can spend it on anything she fancies.”

With Mother’s Day in mind, using ESPA, the leading brand in skin care products, the team have created a gorgeous pamper package including a limited edition ESPA skin Radiance facial together with a mini manicure or pedicure. They have included a complimentary glass of wine and a lovely gift for your mum to take home to complete the experience: “Take away the stress of finding the right gift for your Mum. Our pamper package is a perfect treat which she can book and have on a day to suit herself.”

“We pride ourselves on keeping-up with the latest trends, offering top brands and training staff to the highest levels.”

“All of our therapists receive regular training so that they remain at the top of their game, meaning that our clients can rest assured that they’re in safe and experienced hands.”

You’ll find a vast range of treatments on offer at the salon, with everything from waxing and nail services to laser treatments, semi-permanent make-up, injectables and non-surgical face lifts.

There are also all of the pampering services you’d expect such as indulgent facials and luxury body treatments: “Our cosy treatment rooms are complete with heated couches and soothing candle light which will have you relaxed in no time.”

The treatments on-offer at Wollaston Beauty Clinic are as close to those offered by a day spa as possible: “We provide a little bit of luxury in Wollaston that’s guaranteed to make you look good and feel great,” adds Jenny.

You can purchase the special Mother’s Day package voucher over the counter in the salon or over the phone and then have it posted out to either yourself or your Mum. Each pamper package is worth £80 but from now until Saturday 25th March 2017 you will only pay £40

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

FOR OFFER ÂŁ40

th r o W 0* ÂŁ8

MUM ESPA Facial Mini Manicure or Pedicure Glass of Wine & Free Gift *

153 Bridgnorth Road Wollaston DY8 3NU 01384 393305 where relaxing & pampering is essential

Wollaston Beauty Clinic *Terms & conditions apply. Offer not available in conjunction with any other offer, voucher loyalty scheme or course of treatments. No refunds on cancelations or unused vouchers or no shows. Offer issued as a www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk voucher valid until 28.05.17. Free gift on departure after treatment, may vairy, while stocks last.

www.wollastonbeautyclinic.co.uk

Classy Rags Casual & Designer Wear

Mother of the Bride Hats Jewellery French & Italian Casual Designer Wear Shoes Evening Wear Fascinators Bags Accessories 86

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Classy Rags are offering Town and Village Life Magazine readers

10% OFF* Clothing and Accessories purchased when you present this advert during March and April 2017. *Not valid against sale items, no photocopies and not in conjunction with any other offer

0121 434 3727 627 Bearwood Road, Smethwick, Birmingham B66 4BL

www.classyragsbirmingham.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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C o m p e t i t i o n

Win a Hair Make-over with Jon Kevan

Here at Town & Village Life Magazine we were delighted to hear that Jon Kevan Hair Salon had just reached a very impressive milestone in February 2017 – 40 years in business.

So, we decided to celebrate by teaming-up with them to offer one very lucky reader the chance to win a fantastic hair make-over at the salon.

The winner will receive a thorough consultation with one of the stylists before deciding on a fabulous new colour and cut and will then have their hair blow-dried.

Jon Kevan has been offering clients - of all ages - the best in cutting and colouring techniques over the last 40 years. Owner, Kevin Hollies, has worked hard to keep the business fresh, modern and completely in-line with the needs of his customers. Several salon re-furbishments have resulted in Jon Kevan’s latest look which is contemporary and chic.

“Hairdressing was - and still is - my passion, I opened my business in Kingswinford in 1977 and enjoyed being able to turn something I loved doing into a successful career. As the salon grew we built our unrivalled reputation for quality hairdressing and service, which is something that we have always maintained over the years”.

Leading the way in both ladies and gents styling and children of course, the salon is still drawing in new clients, whist taking good care of its original, loyal clientele.

Kevin added “I adore hairdressing just as much as when I first started out in the business and I feel very lucky to have a great team of stylists working with me, as well as a very loyal client base.”

We’d like to wish Kevin and his team all the best for the salon’s 40th anniversary. A salon with an excellent reputation, there’s no doubt that Jon Kevan Hair Salon will be here for many more years to come.

To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize simply answer the following question correctly:

In what year did Jon Kevan Hair Salon open?

Please email your answer to: townandvillagelifemagazine.co.uk or on a postcard to: Town & Village Life Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY. All entries to be received by Friday 7th April 2017.

Competition Terms & Conditions. Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received. To enter you will need to be aged 18 years or older. No cash or alternative prize available. Prize to be redeemed by Wednesday 31st May 2017, appointment subject to availability. Winner may be required to partake in relevant publicity. Skin test to be taken at least 48 hours prior to appointment. All competition entry details will be forwarded to Jon Kevan Hair Salon unless requested otherwise.

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Treating Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are very common and affect more than one in three adults.

Often hereditary in cause, they occur because the valves of your veins weaken and fail to work effectively.

The National Institute for Care Excellence (NICE) now advises minimally invasive surgery under local anaesthetic, where patients can walk in and walk out within a couple of hours and quickly return to driving and normal activities.

Symptoms include aching and itching, swelling and restless legs at night and the sensation of throbbing over the vein. If left untreated, this can lead to bleeding, eczema, phlebitis and potentially leg ulcers, which take a long time to heal.

of course, to ease any suffering.

With local anaesthetic and short treatment time, recovery is quick and there is minimal bruising, scarring or swelling, so you can both look and feel better sooner.”

When the sun comes out, people who have been putting off surgery may feel inclined to find out more about available treatments for their blue lumpy veins. Sadly for patients the NHS no longer offers treatment for the majority of patients.

During a consultation, an ultrasound scan will detect the source of the problem and from the size and position, indicate the required treatment.

Recognised by all major Medical Insurers. For self paying patients, the consultation fee is £150 and an ultrasound of both legs is £99.

When the vein valves weaken, blood pools in certain areas and this can cause painful and unsightly bulges at the skin’s surface.

Wolverhampton based surgeon, Nuffield Health’s Mr Simon Hobbs has been a consultant vascular surgeon for the last six years and, back in his training days, can still remember the older treatment methods for varicose veins, including stripping the vein from the top of the groin. He explains that nowadays, with more technology available, guided treatment is almost painless and the results are much better. Mr Hobbs says, “In deciding when to have your veins treated, usually the sooner the better for the best results and,

Before Procedure

Post Procedure

Love your legs VARICOSE VEINS are a source of discomfort and can also significantly affect your selfesteem. Having these assessed and treated could be easier than you think.

• High quality varicose and thread vein treatments • Minimally invasive local anaesthetic techniques • Walk-in, walk out procedures • Quick recovery • Insured and self paying patients

Please call 07555 581698 info@simonhobbsveins.co.uk www.simonhobbsveins.co.uk Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital Wood Road | Tettenhall | Wolverhampton | WV6 8LE

LOOKING AFTER YOUR EYES Q. Why do my eyes feel gritty and sore at times?

Why do my eyes water excessively?

You may be suffering from one of a group of conditions known as “dry eye.” (Although it seems a strange term when some people feel as though they have too many tears – these are the “wrong sort of tears”!)

Careful examination of the front of the eye can reveal the type of dry eye condition you are suffering with. There is no cure for dry eye, but with the right treatment most people can get significant relief from the symptoms.

At Taylor Biddle Opticians, our specialised Anterior Eye Clinic is very successful in treating dry eye syndrome. We use the latest technology such as BlephEx; a device which spins a medical grade micro sponge to clean scurf and debris from eyelids. Video microscopy and topography are also used to aid diagnosis and treatment

Q: I am over 4O and my reading is getting worse now, why do I need an eye test when I can see quite well with ready readers?

Good vision is essential through life.

With increased reliance on modern technology such as computers comfortable vision allows us to perform at our best. In our 40s, even if we have been lucky enough not to need glasses before, we find that our eyes change and we need more magnification to see close up. This change (presbyopia) is a perfectly natural ageing process and often is a signal that we need to start looking after the health of our eyes. Often just magnifying glasses are good enough for short spells of reading, but for more prolonged periods of close work, a more accurate prescription gives far more comfortable, relaxed vision. It is thought that we can lose up to 40% of our vision before we may notice. Early detection is a key to prevention of sight loss 90

and therefore a thorough eye examination can detect onset of eye disease at the earliest stage.

Q. Which test is the best way to pick up early signs of eye disease?

At Taylor Biddle we offer extended eye examinations which include cutting edge 3D OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scans of the back of the eye. These scans are very detailed and not the same as free “photos” offered by some high street multiples. The software compares measurements to age- normal values and results are analysed by our Optometrist to enable early diagnosis of common conditions such as glaucoma, age related macular degeneration, diabetes and other health conditions.

Q. I am shortsighted and hate wearing glasses.

I am thinking about laser eye correction. Is there an alternative?

We are one of the very few opticians who specialise in EyeDream OrthoKeratology overnight vision therapy which is an ideal solution for shortsighted people who are unable or find it difficult to wear spectacles or contact lenses. Custom made contact lenses gently reshape cornea during sleep and correct myopia, providing clear natural vision during the day. Because

the cornea is elastic, this is a non permanent and reversible solution, unlike more radical laser surgery.

These lenses are replaced every six months and cost about the same as daily lenses worn every day.

Q. My 12 year old son is short sighted and every time we go for eye test his prescription increases. Is there anything we can do?

A. Yes, numerous studies have shown that Eyedream Ortho-k lenses can be effectively used for slowing down or even halting progression of myopia (shortsightedness) in children.

High myopia is not only a problem with not seeing clearly without correction but can also increase the risk of developing serious eye conditions such as retinal detachment or glaucoma. The lenses are worn overnight and clear vision is restored for the day, which means less worry about lost contact lenses or spectacles! Some studies also indicated that children are likely to perform better at school if they do not wear glasses.

At Taylor Biddle Opticians we aim to exceed the expectations of our customers through the use of latest technological innovations in eyecare whilst remaining focused on exceptional, friendly customer service.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

www.taylorbiddleopticians.co.uk

Designer Frames from‌

& many more Your Local Family Opticians Full eye examinations Ocular health checks The latest eye scanning OCT technology Visual Dyslexia Colorimetry assessments Now stocking optical frames from the fabulous Oliver Peoples range

SPECIAL OFFER

Up to 80% off second pair of varifocal, occupational or sports lenses with every purchase of premium varifocals.

(T & C apply, offer ends 30/04/17.)

39 Bridgnorth Road, Compton Tel: 01902 750 325

34 Windmill Bank, Wombourne Tel: 01902 895 909 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Bridal Beauty

The unbeatable Classic look There have been plenty of different wedding day hair and beauty trends over the years everything from frizzy perms and bright lipsticks to tans that were far too orangey - but there’s one look that has never gone out of fashion; the classic bridal look.

Defined by glowing skin, a perfect pout, carefully groomed brows, luscious lashes, manicured nails and glossy hair, the classic look will never date because it serves to simply enhance your own natural beauty, with the aim being to look like you on a really good day.

Here’s how to achieve it: Begin a dedicated skincare routine as early as possible. Thoroughly cleansing, toning and moisturising every day is essential for a clear complexion. Remember to exfoliate regularly and invest in some quality skincare products that are specially formulated for your skin type.

Booking in for regular facials at the salon is a good idea too; schedule one every four to six weeks, several months before the big day.

If you want long, flowing, glossy tresses then you’ll need to start getting your hair in tip-top condition as soon as possible too. That means booking in for regular trims, ditching the heated styling tools and using quality products.

Think about the hue that’ll be right for you; darker shades add gloss to your locks and can help improve the overall look of your hair, whereas blonde shades can be incredibly flattering for any skin tone.

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Model wears Celestina Dress £595. Phase Eight.

It’s essential to speak to both your stylist and colourist to make plans for your big day as soon as possible.

Well-groomed and well-shaped brows are a must for creating that beautiful natural look that works so well with your wedding makeup.

If you’ve over-plucked in the past give your brows time to fill-out by abstaining from plucking.

Make regular appointments at the salon for eyebrow shaping, so that you’ll be guaranteed to have the

perfect arched brow to accompany your natural make-up look.

Schedule weekly manicures leading up to your big day to ensure that your nails are a uniform shape and length.

Try out last extensions for beautiful eyes, book in teeth whitening for a camera-ready smile and treat your lips to lots of T.L.C before your big day because you’ll need a perfect pout for when you pucker-up for that first kiss as man and wife.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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New Season, New Look

Lilac Bardot Top £26.

Dorothy Perkins

Find your Spring Style

By Helen Taylor Spring is officially here, so it’s time to ditch those drab winter clothes and stock-up on a new season wardrobe that’s full of feminine styles, floral prints and colourful hues.

Whatever the occasion, you’ll be perfectly dressed for spring in a light and bright new look.

Orange Knitted Top £20 Tropical Print Skirt £32 Heels £35 All Dorothy Perkins

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Floral Blouse £25 Tailored Trousers £25 All Dorothy Perkins

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Blue Tie-Up Blouse £27.99 New Look

Ripped Jeans £29.99 New Look

Denim Shorts £19.99 New Look

White Trousers £26 M&Co

Denim Jacket £49.

Maison de Nimes at House of Fraser.

Dropped Peplum Hem Top £25.

Therapy at House of Fraser.

Open Court Shoes £79.

Biba at House of Fraser.

Earrings, Necklace, Bracelet, Ring Coeur de Lion Spring Summer Collection from £25 Exclusivey from T.A.Henn, Wolverhampton. www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Top £28.

V by Very.

Ring, Necklace, Earrings Fei Liu Whispering Collection Exclusively from T.A. Henn, Wolverhampton 95

Avid walker David

is making great strides after hip surgery Avid walker David Baker is back on track after undergoing hip replacement surgery at West Midlands Hospital.

David is over the moon with his operation and can enjoy his favourite pastime again after a frustrating and painful time.

The 74-year-old had never visited West Midlands Hospital before the operation but was thrilled with the surgery which has made a huge difference to his life.

David, of Stourbridge, visited the Halesowen-based hospital for an initial consultation with orthopaedic expert Professor Edward Davis before returning to have his full hip replacement.

He spent three days in hospital and three nights on the hospital ward, under the supervision of ward nurses and the physiotherapy team, before being discharged to recuperate at home.

David said: “I was really frustrated because I was in a lot of discomfort with my hip but I kept putting it off to go and see a surgeon and try and resolve the problem.

“I knew that West Midlands Hospital had an excellent reputation and I know other people who had visited for surgery so I was more than happy to have the hip replacement done there.”

David was full of praise for Professor Davis, a leading specialist in hip and knee replacements and hip resurfacing procedures.

He said: “I’d also heard excellent reports about the consultant Professor Davis and he certainly lived up to his great reputation.

“I’d not been in hospital for anything major for 60 years up until this so I was a bit nervous but he explained everything to me and said that a full hip replacement was the only option because my hip joint was completely worn.

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“He was very calm and reassuring with me throughout and that made a huge difference because coming in for an operation can be a bit daunting at first.”

David has been supported by the hospital’s dedicated Physiotherapy team in his recovery but is grateful to the entire hospital team.

He added: “I would recommend the hospital to anyone. The staff, from the consultant and ward nurses, through to the physio team, couldn’t do enough for me.

“I’m very impressed and it’s an excellent hospital. I don’t want to make a habit of coming to hospital but I wouldn’t hesitate in coming back if I needed any other surgery.”

West Midlands Hospital is one of the leading private hospitals in the Midlands region and provides a range of surgeries and treatments including cosmetic

surgery, spinal surgery, orthopaedic surgeries and eye treatments.

Hip replacement surgery is extremely popular with patients of different ages and makes a huge difference to their quality of life.

Patients can pay privately for their hospital surgery which reduces waiting times considerably.

Professor Davis said: “I am very pleased that David is making excellent progress after his hip replacement.

“I deliver these operations on a weekly basis at West Midlands Hospital where we are able to provide patients with the very best implants using a state-ofthe-art approach in the form of computer assisted technology.

“West Midlands is an excellent hospital where patients are made to feel at home throughout their stay.”

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Seize The Moment Don’t Seize Up Ease those aches and pains with Hip and Knee Surgery at West Midlands Hospital • • • • •

Get the surgery you require Fast access to first class care Less waiting times for surgery Pay for your own treatment Highly experienced and dedicated orthopaedic surgeons

Choose a private hospital that you can trust for the surgery that you need

Call us on 01384 560123 to find out more about our Hip and Knee Surgeries and prices or visit www.westmidlandshospital.co.uk Colman Hill, Halesowen, West Midlands B63 2AH Public Information www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

West Midlands Hospital 97

South Staffordshire

l eis u re

South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres offer a wide range of fitness facilities which are available to both members and non-members.

The facilities available include: •

Gyms

•

Exercise Classes

•

Studio Cycling and My Ride

•

Swimming

•

Toning Suites

£20 for access to all areas, plus use of 4 leisure centres for 1 great price

Join and receive: •

Free Health Check

•

Free Fitness Programme

•

Free Induction

The leisure centres are friendly and welcome all ages and abilities with a range of classes suitable for all fitness levels. Come and give it a try!

To find out more visit www.sstaffs.gov.uk/leisure or call: Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre: 01922 417790 Codsall Leisure Centre: 01902 844032 Penkridge Leisure Centre: 01785 714152 Wombourne Leisure Centre: 01902 898202

NO Joining fee NO long term commitment NO cancellation fee 98

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

SUMMER BODIES ARE MADE IN THE WINTER TO HELP YOU GET STARTED : <> <> <> <>

BOOK YOUR FREE HEALTH CHECK RECEIVE A FREE PERSONAL FITNESS PROGRAMME FREE INDUCTION UPON JOINING 4 LEISURE CENTRES AND FULL ACCESS FOR JUST £20 PER MONTH

SES • S A L C E XERCIS E • S M RIDE Y Y G M • G N C YC L I STUDIO IMMING W S • E T SUI TO N I N G

LEISURE

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre 01922 417790 Codsall Leisure Centre 01902 844032

Penkridge Leisure Centre 01785 714152 Wombourne Leisure Centre 01902 898202 99

The Banks’s Round the Wrekin Sportive 2017

21st May 2017 - Supported by cycling legend Hugh Porter MBE Returning for a second year this Sportive starts at Dudley Kingswinford Rugby Club and heads out into the Shropshire Hills taking in the Long Mynd, Stiperstones and The Wrekin.

There is a choice of three routes which will challenge all levels of rider from the experienced to the beginner.

Event date: Sunday 21st May 2017 Event includes: • • • • • • • • • • •

Event Centre Facilities and Parking Mechanical Support Full Route Marking Course Food Stations Electronic Chip Timing Web Results Service Emergency Support On Site Catering Event Photography Broom Wagon Medal

Starting again at Dudley Kingswinford Rugby Club, this route will take cyclists in a North Westerly direction via Bobbington, Claverley and Worfield, then South through Bridgnorth and Upton Cressett, towards The Wrekin. The last 15 miles of slightly undulated land is where cyclists can pick up the pace through Ironbridge, Coalport, Pattingham, Seisdon, Swindon and finally ending back at Kingswinford.

The sportive offers 3 routes so that every level of cyclist can take part.

The Standard route is a hilly ride through Shropshire and over the Wrekin for fit riders who cycle regularly.

The Epic Route (101.5 Miles / 160 Km) (+7471ft / -7469 ft)

Finally, The Hugh Porter Route (23.9 Miles / 38 Km) (+1019 ft / -1017 ft)

Starting at Dudley Kingswinford Rugby Club, this route will take participants in a North Westerly direction towards Church Stretton. From Church Stretton cyclists will encounter some serious hills travelling up The Burway towards The Stiperstones before turning north and heading downhill to the 50 mile point at Snailbeach. Just past Cressage the incline will again start to increase, heading north towards Uppington before heading towards The Wrekin, Ironbridge, and finally ending back at Kingswinford.

This will again start at Dudley Kingswinford Rugby Club, this slightly undulating route will take cyclists in an North Westerly direction via Bobbington, Claverley, Hopstone, Wyken and Worfield at the 10 mile point and then head North to Ackleton where the undulations will start to increase and then East through Kingslow and Pattingham.The last two miles is predominately downhill back to Dudley Kingswinford.

The Epic route is a serious challenge with lengthy, steep hills to climb which will stretch experienced and well trained cyclists.

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The Standard Route (64.1 Miles / 102 Km) (+4127 ft / -4123 ft)

The Short route is a gentle ride around quiet lanes intended for all types of riders.

Anyone interested in taking part in any of the 3 routes can find more information and can register at www.roundthewrekin.co.uk If you want to contact Compton Hospice about this event, please call 01902-774514 or email fundraising@compton-hospice.org.uk

town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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WEST MID MAYOR

CANDIDATE PAYS VISIT TO

WOLVES HEALTH PROVIDER A West Midlands Mayor candidate has attended a leading Wolverhampton organisation to experience firsthand its ongoing work to help promote and improve health and wellbeing across the region.

The team at Paycare welcomed Beverley Nielsen, Liberal Democrat candidate for West Midlands Mayor, to its offices in George Street on Thursday 16th February for a full tour of the premises, a meet-and-greet with the team, and to learn about the ongoing investment it places in enhancing the health and wellbeing of the region’s residents, and subsequently the money that it gives back to charity.

Beverley, a candidate in the election on 4th May, has a strong background in business through her previous positions as Regional Director of CBI and Group Board Director of AGA Rangemaster plc, a FTSE 250 business. In addition, she has been Chief Executive of Heart of England Tourist Board and Director of Employer Engagement and Corporate affairs at Birmingham Beverley Nielsen, a Lib Dem candidate in the 4th May elections to become the first ever West Midlands Mayor

Kevin Rogers, CEO of Paycare

City University. She is an Associate Fellow at Warwick Manufacturing Group at the University of Warwick.

“We were absolutely thrilled to have Beverley visit us at Paycare House,” explained Kevin Rogers, CEO. “With her passion for the West Midlands and knowledge in business, it was fantastic to host her and I know that our team really valued the chance to talk to her about her own plans for the region, as well as for them to share details of some of the really exciting developments we’ve been working on within the business.”

“She has a clear passion and interest in the success of Paycare, and we were pleased to have showcased that health cash plans aren’t about selling premiums to customers, but much more about preventative healthcare, budgeting and saving costs further down the line. And with us able to donate every other spare penny to charities, initiatives and good causes, we’re in a very positive position to have donated over £2million to date.”

Beverley Nielsen added: “I was delighted to visit the team at Paycare. As an example not-for-profit organisation, it is focused on providing cash plans which help tackle the increasing challenges we face surrounding our health. Offering a range of solutions and support, I look forward to learning more about Paycare’s business and ongoing charitable work, along with their own approach to employee care, health and wellbeing.”

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Higgs & Sons

Property price surge fuelled by bank of mum and dad?

With news that average UK house prices surged by almost £4,000 in December, specialists from a leading Midlands law firm are questioning whether the so called ‘bank of Mum and Dad’ is having an effect on the property market.

“According to the Halifax, house prices rose by 1.7% in December, with the average cost of a property reaching a new high of just over £222,000,” says Neil Stockall, a Partner at Higgs & Sons and Head of the Residential Property team.

“This represents the fastest acceleration in property values since the Brexit vote.”

According to the Office for National Statistics the number of 18-24 year olds living at home is around 3.3m.

Neil added: “Perhaps the combination of being able to save more, plus some much needed input from parents, has helped some of these young people to take their first step on to the property ladder, thus resulting in this surge.”

It is increasingly common for first time buyers to turn to the ‘bank of Mum and Dad’ for help in raising the required mortgage deposit.

Often parents use their nest eggs to provide that. However, there are several things that parents and their children should bear in mind.

“A common way for parents to help is to ‘advance their inheritance’ to children. This comes with dangers as, should a parent die within seven years of making such a gift, inheritance tax will be payable if the total gifts within those seven years exceed the parents’ inheritance tax allowance.

“Further, if the child is in a relationship or marriage that later breaks down, then the ‘gift’ from the parents may become part of any financial settlement, with half required to be paid to the child’s ex-partner.”

Financial gifts can, however, be protected.

“It is important that when the new home is bought, the professional advisers involved in the process are made aware that the deposit has been given by a family member. The property title will be noted to reflect this, and an appropriate Declaration of Trust can be prepared.

“An alternative is to make any such payment by way of a loan rather than a gift and to have a suitable loan agreement drawn up which can be secured against the property. This approach would

Neil Stockall

need sanctioning by any lender, so full disclosure should be made when applying for a mortgage.

“Any such loan could be interest free and the parent may not even really expect that it would actually be repaid, but in the event of a breakdown in their child’s relationship the payment will fall outside any dispute.

“Nuptial agreements may also be extremely helpful. These are being given greater weight by the courts, provided they are entered into properly so it is important that expert advice is sought from a specialist in this area of family law.”

Higgs & Sons is experienced in dealing with first time buyers using parents for deposit and in protecting gifts or payments of this nature.

If you would like to discuss your options in more depth, contact Neil Stockall. For advice on wealth management, contact Peter Gosling, Partner in the Private Client department, and for all family related matters, contact Head of the family team Philip Barnsley. All can be contacted on 0345 111 5050.

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One of the top 25

Prep Schools

in England The Sunday Times Parent Power Top 100 Independent Preparatory Schools has listed Newbridge Preparatory School in the top 25 Prep Schools in England. The rankings are based on Key Stage Two SATs (Standard Attainment Tests) results, in which Newbridge Preparatory pupils have achieved results well above the national average across all three subject areas.

As an Independent prep school, we continue to voluntarily enter our girls for SATs which we do as a benchmark to help us see where we sit amongst the state sector; ensuring our high standards are maintained and externally measured. Newbridge Preparatory School, ranked 24th in the Sunday Times listing, achieved the following percentage of pupils meeting a level 5 standard in their SATs results:

• Reading: 100% • Mathematics: 88% • Grammar, punctuation and spelling: 88%

Additionally, at level 6, which is achieved by less than 1% of

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

pupils taking Key Stage Two SATs, Newbridge girls achieved:

• Mathematics: 40% • Grammar, punctuation and spelling: 31%

• Level 6 SATs were additional

tests intended to challenge Year Six children who were excelling in maths and/or English. Level 6 is a standard that the average child does not reach until Year Ten.

Forefront of academic achievement Newbridge is the only prep school in the West Midlands to reach the top 25; continuing the school’s reputation for being at the forefront of academic achievement across the West Midlands. This is an outstanding achievement for a small, non-selective prep school. Many of the other schools appearing in the top 25 are selective on entry. Newbridge is thrilled with the academic success which is the result of innovative teaching, a creative curriculum and a robust assessment programme. However, Newbridge Preparatory School is about so much more than just academic results with our focus on inspiring all to achieve their potential in all areas of school life through the support and dedication

of the whole school community and our excellent pastoral care.

Our Upper School girls take part in over two hours of sport each week, at least two hours of music and all have dance and drama lessons. In addition, we have many ‘extra-curricular’ clubs on offer each week including our own Brownie Pack – 1st Newbridge Brownies.

Outstanding School Earlier this year, Newbridge was inspected by the Independent Schools inspectorate and was awarded an ‘Excellent’ rating (Ofsted equivalent = outstanding) the highest grading in every inspection category. So Newbridge is truly an excellent and outstanding school in every way.

Creating a choice at 11+ Invest now and you will have far more options when your daughter is eleven. In and around Wolverhampton, we are fortunate to have diversity of choice across both state and independent sectors for senior schools. We work closely with parents to identify the next school in which each individual child will truly flourish – we will help and support you, every step of the way, to find the right senior school for your daughter.

Come and visit us Please do not just take our word for it. Read our ‘Excellent’ 2016 inspection report (www. isi.net/schools/6725) or better still come and visit us – as every day is an open day. Please ring 01902 751088 to make an appointment. Early registration for places is highly recommended for guaranteed places.

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Hearts, Minds

a nd S o u l s

With a long established reputation for developing wellrounded individuals, Tettenhall College Preparatory School continues to build on excellence with the upcoming launch of its exciting new Boat Programme.

Designed with the individual in mind, the Boat Programme aims to deepen and widen the experiences open to all pupils from Years 3- 6 in its Preparatory School. New subjects include Latin, Mandarin, Philosophy and Engineering, to name a few, whilst extra support in reading, handwriting, mathematics and literacy is available for those who need it. This innovative offering has been developed by the enthusiastic staff team, who are keen to offer their pupils more individual and tailored routes to success.

“With 45% of Key Stage 2 pupils achieving higher or significantly higher than expected results in English and 34% accomplishing the same in mathematics in 2016, the success of our pupils far exceeds the national expectation of 16%” Mr Simon Wrafter, the Head of the Prep school, explains. “However, we understand that developing our pupils as individuals and opening up opportunities to broaden their skills is as important as academic success – particularly since we are a nonselective school.”

the School. The Boat Programme will focus on the heart and soul of the individual and thus, through a more tailored offering, every pupil will be able to more fully experience our three pillars of education – developing academic minds, active hearts and enriched souls.

The Preparatory School is holding an Open Morning on Friday 5th May, where more information will be available about this exciting new offering as well as an opportunity to discuss your child’s future education with the team at the School.

In other developments at the School, the go ahead has just been given for a brand new state of the art Sixth Form Centre, improved Library facilities and brand new squash courts which are all part of the School’s development plan for the next five years.

English, reading and mathematics are at the heart of our curriculum and are taught daily throughout the morning whilst our science classes, taught in the modern Prep School laboratory, now include an engineering focus.

Despite the variety of opportunities available, core subjects continue to account for 60% of the curriculum at 108

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T A K E

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Preparatory School Open Morning

Senior School Open Morning

Friday 5th May 9am - 11.30am

Saturday 6th May 10am - 12.30pm

Independent day and boarding school for pupils 2-18 years old. www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Photographs courtesy of Designer Photography

Social Scene

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Searcy’s The Balcony Selfridges, Birmingham

The second `Keeping It Real’ event in aid of Help Harry Help Others charity took place on 2nd March 2017, with guests enjoying networking, a fashion show, accompanied by a glass of prosecco, served with canapés.

Sponsored by

Libby Walton, Personal Stylist, styled all of the models and presented the show along with Ed James from Heart FM. The Fashion Show consisted of a range of `keeping it real’ looks from casual to chic, modelled by ‘real women’, whose lives have been touched by cancer. Selfridges provided the models clothes, with Libby showcasing their extensive range from Primark

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A fresh approach to Dentistry

to Valentino. GHD styled the model’s hair and makeup was provided by Bobbi Brown within Selfridges.

Gastro Card was partner promoting the event.

Guests enjoyed a raffle with fabulous prizes and also received a special Goodie Bag from the evening.

The event raised over £580 for Help Harry Help Others.

1. Barbara Perry, Bev Davenport,Valta Rainbow.

2. Tafadzwa Mushipe, Georgie Moseley.

3. Ed James, Danielle Lloyd, Sally Bowen, Jo Waddell, Libby Walton.

4. Ed James, Danielle Lloyd.

5. Gill Moore, Sue Fennell, Michelle Davies.

6. Ellie Hayter, Janine Hayter.

7. Dave Fellows, Libby Walton.

8. Melanie Rowley, Karen Walker.

9. Sandra Murray, Jo Waddell, Sally Bowen.

10. Lizzie Allister, Vanessa Dixon, Ashley Dixon, Linda Baker.

11. Bev Davenport , Nikki Singh, Emma Dowling.

12. Models - Mandy Latif, Georgie Moseley, Julie Revitt, Ann Moore. town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Social Scene

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Social Scene

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Master Chef

Promotions Award 2016 The Masterchef Promotions Black Tie Awards Ceremony took place on Sunday 5th February 2017 at The Supreme Banqueting Suite, West Bromwich.

Sponsored by

Attended by over 800 people, restaurants from across the country were nominated and shortlisted into various award categories.

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Hosted by Shefali Oza BBC news and weather presenter and Harjap Bhangal, entertainment was provided by singers, artists and dancers followed by a three course meal.

1. Balti Bazaar Restaurant , Lye, with guests.

2. Foyzur - Blue Ginger, Kingswinford Best Newcomer of The Year and Khalid, Wombourne Tandoori.

3. Wombourne Tandoori, Winner of Best Restaurant of The Year, West Midlands Region with guests.

A fresh approach to Dentistry

4. Island Massala, Winner of Best Regional Chef, Staffordshire region with guests.

5. Rafique and Khalid, Wombourne Tandoori.

6. Niazul Hassan, Liton Miah, Wombourne Tandoori. town & village life magazine | march/april 2017

Volkswagen Tiguan

By Rob Taylor Hurrying to keep pace with an increasingly crowded compact SUV market comes the latest, all-new Volkswagen Tiguan. And let’s not beat about the bush: this car segment is Nissan Qashqai Country and, like some gnarly, tobacco-chewing sheriff from a Spaghetti Western, it doesn’t appreciate strangers causing a commotion in its hometown, the UK.

a slight shuffling of proportions to make the vehicle appear lower and sleeker, helps the Tiguan to be a real contender among its peers.

Here today nothing outsells the all-conquering Nissan, but you can’t fault VW for trying to get a piece of the pie. The Tiguan is, according to its manufacturer, “designed and engineered to redefine the segment by introducing class-leading levels of interior space, practicality and safety while also debuting cuttingedge technology and connectivity.”

An entry-level Tiguan S comes with alloy wheels, air conditioning, automatic headlights and wipers, a large colour touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity and a digital radio tuner. However, I’d recommend plumping for SE Navigation spec to grab satnav, climate control, cruise control and parking sensors. Top of the range spec is the R-Line, but with a sportier body-kit, stiffer suspension and big alloy wheels, it’s largely surplus spending. The 2litre TDI SE 2WD auto (priced at: £28,910) I have here is a good all-rounder.

Everything certainly feels fresh and, as ever with VW, there’s a level of quality and class that helps justify starting prices of around £23,000. Sitting atop the fabled MQB platform for the first time, the Tiguan boasts a lot of safety gizmos such as City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring; Active Info Display and Head-Up Display. This, when combined with www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

And there’s more. In the cabin the wide centre console is paired with a new 4MOTION Active Control rotary switch, which, with ambient lighting and the optional panoramic roof – standard from SEL trim upwards – creates a premium feel.

There’s also more head-room and knee-room than in the previous model, and a lower load sill improves ease of use still further.

Ninety-five per cent of all Tiguans sold in the UK are diesels and over half of those are bought with four-wheel drive, although quite why I don’t know – bragging rights

maybe? I certainly have never seen a Tiguan doing duty on a farm or taking part in the strange recreational hobby of “green-laning.”

This model with its 150bhp and promise of 58.9mpg is expected to be the best-seller in the range and on paper it looks impressive.

In reality it’s a meaty, ample powerplant that boasts oodles of torque and, when allied to this intelligent auto gearbox, makes the Tiguan an effortless cruiser – happy to return decent fuel economy into the low 50s, in the real world.

Although substantial wind noise at high speeds may drive you to be very grateful for the radio indeed.

Even at this kerbweight, the handling is always safe and entirely predictable, which is paramount with SUVs, after all nobody buys them to take bends wearing a smile.

Like its predecessor, the Tiguan has a comfortable, well-judged ride that doesn’t crash over bumps in the road and offers a steering set-up that is nicely-weighted too, if lacking some feedback.

Overall this second-generation model is refined, spacious and well-sorted for family life.

However, the new kid on the block still falls some way short of supplanting the Qashqai.

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel Signature Luxury Cars 71 Appliances Electrical & Gas Capital Appliances 53 Geoff Hill 51 Awnings Castle Blinds 29 Love Your Blinds 15/25 Bathrooms Brierley Hill Bathrooms 37 Roman Bathrooms 23 Wall Heath Bathrooms 25 Beds & Bedroom Furniture Merridale 33 Sofa Factory Outlet 31 Woodrobes 11 Beauticians Wollaston Beauty Clinic 85 Blinds â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Curtains - Shutters Castle Blinds 29 Little House of Sanderson 45 Love your Blinds 15/25 Val Hever Blinds 48 Building & Maintenance Contractors Three Pines 5 Caravan Accessories Cannock Caravans 57 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Zero Drytime 45 Carpets/Flooring â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Supply & Fit ND Walters 13 Premier Carpets 19 Virgo 48 Catering Services Scratch Cooking Caterers 68 Conservatory Roofs August Home Improvements 7 Dentistry Parkdale Dentures 93 Parkdale Implants 2 Driveway Resindrives.co.uk 115 Education Newbridge School 107 Tettenhall College 109 Entertainment & Leisure South Staffs Leisure 99

Estate Agents Berriman Eaton 8/9 Exterior Cleaning, Maintenance Able Facilities Services 34 Fashion - Retail Aristocats 83 Classy Rags 86/87 Fencing & Gates Profence 65 Fireplaces & Stoves Flaming Fires 13 Firewood Black Country Firewood 66 Floristry Supplies & Craft Products Country Baskets 59 Furniture & Furnishings Merridale 33 Pargeters 22 Ralvern 39 Sofa Factory Outlet 31 Virgo 48 Garage Refurbishment Services Danmarque Garages 35 Garden Design Boningale Garden Creations 61 Galleries & Gift Shops Celebrations 47 Stourbridge Galleries 32 Gardening & Landscaping Lealans Garden Centre 63 Gas Boiler Servicing Gas First 67 Glazing Repairs Blakes Glass & Glazing 68 Hairdressers Jon Kevan 81 Health Care Cover Paycare 103 Home Furnishings Little House of Sanderson 45 Home Improvements August Home Improvements 7 Hospices Compton Hospice 101 Independent Financial Advisers Midland Financial Services 16/17

Interior Designers Virgo IT Support IT Techno-Phobes Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit Intoto Kitchens Roman Bathrooms Lighting Lighting Majestic Lighting R Us Loft Ladders Lyndale Luxury Travel Signature Luxury Cars Opticians Taylor Biddle Painters & Decorators Dave Russon Patrick Bellew Private Hospitals West Midlands Hospital Professional Party Planners Prince & Princess Restaurants & Pubs Halfpenny Green Vineyards Harleys Smokehouse Wombourne Tandoori Sea Food Suppliers Star Agro Marine Foods Solicitors Higgs & Sons Stairs & Stair Components Lyndale Tea Rooms Halfpenny Green Vineyards Theatres The Grand Theatre Vein Clinics Simon Hobbs Veterinary Services Blacks Vets Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Vineyards Windows & Conservatories August Home Improvements Hayley Windows

48 68 27 23 46 41 33 71 91 68 66 97 69 75 73 79 69 105 33 75 116 89 55 75 7 15

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