Wolverhampton West Magazine - December 2018

WOLVERHAMPTON WEST MAGAZINE LOCAL MAGAZINE DELIVERED TO 25,000 SELECTED HOMES AND BUSINESSES*

CHRISTMAS EDITION BEAUTY GIFT IDEAS ■ For Him and Her

from Heaven by Deborah Mitchell ■ Fashion, Hair & Beauty

PLUS! ■ Eating Out &

Entertainment ■ Motoring ■ Local Social Scene

WIN!

DECEMBER 2018

award-winning wines with Halfpenny Green Wine Estate ■ A meal for two at The Shrewsbury Arms ■ Panto tickets for Sleeping Beauty at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre DELIVERED TO AREAS OF: CODSALL, CODSALL WOOD, OAKEN, BISHOPS WOOD, TONG, COVEN, BREWOOD, COMPTON, TETTENHALL, CLAREGATE, FINCHFIELD, CASTLECROFT, PENN, MERRY HILL & BRADMORE

DECEMBER 2018

■ A mixed case of 6

Introducing internationally recognised dental implant surgeon Jonathon Pugh BDS MSc Wolverhampton based dental implant surgeon Jonathon Pugh BDS MSc is recognised as an international expert in the patient-centric care of people who have lost or who are losing their teeth.

Jon was born and educated in Birmingham, graduating from the University of Birmingham in 1987 with honours and a distinction in clinical dentistry. His MSc in implant dentistry was completed at Warwick University, again with distinction, and he has been placing and restoring dental implants for over 27 years.

He moved to Wolverhampton in 1991 and has focused his practice here. He currently operates at the Parkdale Dental and Implant Clinic. Due to Jon’s extensive experience the Clinic is recognised as a centre of excellence.

Jon has recently attended an alignment meeting and alumni event for Pro Arch Centres of excellence in Lisbon, Portugal.

The alignment meeting was hosted by Professor Joao Carames of the Instituto de Implantologia whilst the alumni meeting was hosted by Straumann a world leading implant company Jon has worked with his entire professional career.

All aspects of treatment are undertaken at the Clinic but Jon’s main area of interest is in helping people through the process of tooth loss to rehabilitation with implant borne replacement teeth. This process involves the placement of multiple Straumann implants with or without immediate loading. Which means, that if certain criteria are met, new fixed replacement teeth can be fitted in a day.

If you’re considering dental implants or are having issues with uncomfortable or misfitting dentures, please contact the Parkdale Dental & Implant Clinic.

01902 420654 parkdaledentalandimplantclinic.co.uk

To arrange your complimentary consultation, call us on: or visit:

02

Parkdale Dental & Implant Clinic, 82 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton WV1 4TF reception.parkdale@portmanhealthcare.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine

From the EDITOR

Despite what you might think (or what our special 14 pages of Social pages show you), running this magazine isn’t all glamorous social engagements and handshakes with the Mayor.

Much of my time is spent trawling through reams of tedious press releases, making phone calls to double-check minute details and just generally making sure everyone at WW HQ is kept on point and thoroughly motivated – especially if Wolves FC lost the day before. (Happily though – and, as a lifelong Baggies fan, I use the word strictly in this sense only – Nuno’s boys are doing well right now and I bet this was something that the many former Wolves FC legends talked about a lot when golfing recently for charity at Oxley Park Golf Club, yet I digress…)

But none of this compares to what is my number one pet hate in magazine publishing: talking Christmas in October.

It really knocks my body-clock, it’s like a kind of office-based jet lag. Your body thinks it’s still warm enough to wear a T-shirt outside, but your mind is sitting down to watch the Queen’s speech on TV. Your brain gets confused, tired and stupid. At least that’s my excuse…

I’ve always said that Christmas should come in with the Tree and go out with the leftover turkey. Enjoy it but don’t do it to death in the lead up. So to any of you who share my sentiments on the subject: feel free to skip the rest of this editor’s letter. I have to write it; you don’t have to read it. Unless of course you’re among the majority who love Christmas, in which case you’re in for a fat Santa sack this year: stuffed full of treats from your local area, beginning with three fantastic competition prizes up for grabs from the Grand Theatre, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate and Shrewsbury Arms.

‘Tis the season of giving, after all.

Have no fear, Panto season is here (oh no it’s not!), starting with Sleeping Beauty at the Grand Theatre. From the biggest (Christmas Light switch-on in Queen Square) to the smallest (tiny LED baubles from LightingRUs), we shine a light on the most wonderful time of the year. Our Fashion pages will tell you what to wear on the long winter days and our Beauty pages will give you all the goss you need to look and feel younger than you did even last year. And then Smileworks dentistry will provide the icing on the (Christmas) cake.

Of course along with all that comes Hair too: so we have big hair news (backcombing is back, folks!) for Him and Her from celebrity hairdressers Royston Blythe, who recently celebrated winning the L’Oreal Colour Trophy awards – for the third consecutive year running.

We’ve got loads of gift ideas inside (including an exclusive insight from Heaven’s Deborah Mitchell on what to buy both Him and Her) and all the independent and unusual places you’ll ever need to shop local: internet be damned! No online car configurator can ever compete with the amazing, new four acre Jaguar Land Rover complex on Graiseley Hill, that’s for sure.

Our 12 pages on Eating Out give you everything but the partridge in the pear tree – stand-out mention this time goes to our review at Tettenhall’s haven for healthy dining, Grill-It. Truly, all of

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

our advertiser’s are more eager than ever to feed you and your friends at this time of year. Whether it’s top-notch local quality meats for your Christmas table from Allan Bennett, Poxons, Richard Hipkiss and Corbelli’s Little Italy Deli or Bavarian sausage from either Penkridge or Perton Christmas Market, your stomach will not be forgotten.

And neither will your home, because we know that this is the season when many of you develop anxieties around the imminent arrival of visiting family and friends. So we have lots of articles about homes (specifically about how to spruce up with new furniture, curtains, flooring, bathrooms), gardens (check out Lealans Garden Centre) and pets too, if you think Jasper needs a tidy-up before Greataunt Cecilia pops in for sherry (if so, look no further than newly established veterinary clinic, Tudor House.) Speaking of in-laws, if you feel you’re in need of a swift exit during the festive crush, get away to Tracy Mason Travel in Penkridge to book a Christmas away from it all.

So, yes, Christmas is coming but, because of the way magazine deadlines work, for me it’s now already been and gone, but, er, nevertheless: we wish all our readers a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

See you in February…

Geoff

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CONTENTS

16

38 56

CHRISTMAS EDITION 12 The local property market by Nick Berriman 16 Deck the halls 22 Christmas candles 24 Wombourne & District Choral Society 26 Rotary Club of Wolverhampton 28 Halfpenny Green Wine Estate Competition 36 Crosswords & Puzzles 38 Carver Wolverhampton Half Marathon Events 40 Recipe of the month 47 Compton Charity Challenge 48 Black Country Firewood Open Day 50 Gardening with Ann Winwood 52 Garden View - Plants for Christmas 56 Grand Theatre competition 66 Pattingham Panto: Jack and the Beanstalk 70/71 Enjoy the festive season at Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 72 Enjoy a Winter Wolverhampton 74 Shrewsbury Arms competition 78/79 Food review - Grill-It 92/93 Heaven: Gifts for Christmas 100 Choose the perfect winter coat 106/107 Turn up the glamour - Christmas party looks 130 Brewood Christmas lights switch on 130 Friends of Bantock House Museum and Park 135 A Christmas Tree extravaganza in Pattingham 136-149 Social Scene 150 Golf Tip 151 Wolves legends’ golf day 154/155 Motoring - Jaguar E-Pace 158 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe 160 Answers to crosswords and puzzles 161 Index to advertisers 162 Lancaster unveils a vison of the future 04

68-69

70-71

wolverhampton west magazine

CONGRATULATIONS TO: Winners of the Grand Theatre competition to see Kinky Boots Lesley Allard, Codsall Louise Wedge, Perton Winners of a meal for 2 at 3 Hammers Bar & Bistro Janet Bacon, Wergs Jayne Postance, Newbridge

78-79 136-149

98-99 151 Wolverhampton West Magazine Lytham Rd, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY Tel: 01902 744217 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Wolverhampton West 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. Wolverhampton West 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 Wolverhampton West Magazine Ltd.

*Total distribution 25,000 copies across 2 months

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

162 Advertising enquiries Gisella Wiley, Sales Director (sales@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk) Editorial/What’s On information Geoff Hall, Editor (info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk) Magazine Design Studio 28 Design & Print (studio@s28.co.uk) 05

Create your own amazing with

space

Tile Choice

Tile Choice will now be working in partnership with George Clarke, architect, TV presenter, campaigner and educator.

George is the voice of our new radio adverts and will be making an appearance at one of our stores very soon. George Clarke believes that architecture, art and design should be accessible to all as it has the power to transform and enrich lives.

George recognises and values the process that enables people to unlock the beauty of where they live. There is generally no place like home, this is the space which allows for creative form and expression that we can all embrace and manipulate.

We all have the possibility of experimenting with our environment and to do so improves the way we live and hopefully teaches us something new along the way.

Man. George believes that “Home is the most powerful form of architecture that affects us all, and if you are lucky enough to have a warm and comfortable roof over your head, it is a very special place indeed�.

George aims to challenge the notion that great art and design is only accessible by the few and he tries to shine the spotlight on many disciplines including the more traditional spheres of architecture, art and design. Sharing skills and knowledge whether undertaking a brave restoration or a new-build on a budget, he emphasises the value of a team which includes a combination of architect, designer, engineer, craftsman, artists, manufacturer and owner.

His tastes and interests are wideranging - architecture, painting, photography, furniture, art, clothing, motorcycle and bike design.

For him, the vital key is whether they have been designed with passion and integrity. For more information visit his website.

Our ever-expanding range of tiles is frequently updated to fulfil not only the latest trends but also to cover the classic, traditional styles. Here at Tile Choice we believe style can be achieved no matter what the budget is, why not pop into store or give us a call to speak with one of our friendly, knowledgeable members of staff for design ideas to create an amazing space and a free, no obligation quote so you are ready to transform your home.

Some of George’s TV programmes include Old House New Home, Amazing Spaces and Restoration 06

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create your own amazing space If you are looking for an up to the minute design for your kitchen, bathroom or en-suite, traditional style or a modern and contemporary design for your lounge, hallway or conservatory.

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Bespoke Jewellery Design Sophie has had a busy couple of months and included in this page are a couple of the real life commissions she had undertaken to bring back to life beautiful ingredients.

Both these were jewels that were not being worn in their original state and have since been transformed into something much more attractive with all the original sentimental value locked in.

natural ones and no one will be any the wiser, until of course you decide to see if your investment was worth the money you paid for it. Currently there is a huge variation between the two and within the pre-owned market the difference is even greater.

If you would like to have a free consultation do give Sophie a call at the store and we at Henns Family Jewellers will continue the work of the last 170 years, making beautiful jewellery for the people of Wolverhampton.

As well as offering this wonderful bespoke service the store in Princess Street is blessed with knowledgeable staff who a number of you have come to know as friends. There is no hard sell just an enthusiasm to find that significant item for your special occasion.

In the USA recently the Federal Trade Commission decided to change the law on differentiating between natural diamonds and those created synthetically in a lab.

Safe to say any country in the world under US influence may now sell synthetic diamonds alongside

We at Henns have teamed up with a diamond cutter who has complete traceability of their stones and now there is a shorter route to you from the ground than ever before. If you are interested in a new or pre-owned diamond please come in and see what we can offer you. I promise you will be thrilled with everything.

See the finished result in the next issue

To be able to spend up to 30 minutes with Sophie so she can chat with you and sketch out some of your ideas, email info@tahenn.com for an appointment, this initial consultation is free of charge, coffee included!

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Currently she is not here all the time so an appointment is essential for you not to be disappointed. If you are looking to use your existing items do bring them all in along with any other bits you don’t wear. They may help pay for the whole exercise, and we will transfer the sentimental value into your new piece.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

wolverhampton west magazine

Select your DiamonD

38-41 Princess Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1HD | 01902 428486 | info@tahenn.com | www.tahenn.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Bespoke Sofas & Quality Re-Upholstery

CALL FOR A BROCHURE TEL: 01543 505539 10

sales@ralvernupholstery.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine

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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www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

11

The local

property market

by Nick Berriman

they actually ran out of land. There is a development in a village not a million miles from Wolverhampton where the builder did not end up with enough land to put the garage at the side of the house and had to site it in front. I contemplated offering a prize to anyone who could identify the village but have thought better of it. On second thoughts I could offer a free valuation but as we don’t charge anyway that would not be very exciting!

There has been much press coverage of the different types of ownership available to purchasers in this day and age.

Firstly and most commonly in this region is Freehold. In simple terms this means that the property is held free of any outside influences. This is really an over simplification as there can be restrictive covenants in the title which have been placed by a vendor and restrict the use of the property but do not affect the eventual ownership. When buying a Freehold property the purchase includes the land and anything on the land at the time of purchase.

The deed plan will define the site and should indicate ownership of boundary walls and fences. There is an old rule of thumb relating to fences which says that nails are driven towards home so if there are fence posts and panels that means that the panels will be behind the posts. That is fine and helpful provided that whoever erected the fence knew about it! It also has no significance today when most boundary fences have concrete posts into which the panels are slotted.

Sometimes surveyors are asked to identify the precise location of a property. A site plan will show exactly where the plot is but in the absence of any defining features it can be difficult to be exact on the ground.

Quite often on a large estate the builder did not conform precisely to the layout plan and sometimes 12

The second type of ownership is Leasehold. This means that at the end of the term of the lease the property reverts back to whoever granted the lease. The most usual terms are for 99 or 999 years. The lease may have covenants which refer to behaviour, maintenance and the need for alterations to be approved. There are only a few houses in this area which are Leasehold but the large majority of flats and apartments are and for very good reasons. The leases of flats will include covenants about noise, pets, maintenance, sub letting and possibly parking. There will also be restrictions on structural alterations. These covenants are for the benefit of the other owners in the block. Noisy pets or a flat left to deteriorate can be a serious problem for neighbours and badly done structural alterations can put the integrity of the building at risk.

Very often the freehold of a block of flats is held by a residents company of which all the residents are directors or shareholders, the company then grants leases to all of the occupants and it is then the company which can enforce the covenants. That is an ideal situation but sometimes the freehold is held by the original developers, or anyone to whom they have sold it so the residents have little control. Service charges are always an issue as is management and there are more problems where the residents are not in control.

are looking to enforce restrictions.

When there are less than 60 years left on a lease this begins to restrict saleability and mortgageability.

There are ways in which the term can be extended and I know of one case where the cost will be about ÂŁ16,000 for a two bedroomed flat but there is little option but to buy.

This is a complicated situation and generalisation is unwise.

The third method of ownership I will discuss is Shared Ownership.

This means an organisation; often a housing association will build and sell properties but retain a proportion of the value. Often the part sold will be 75% of the full value with 25% retained. This means that buyers are able to purchase at much below the full value and is proving very popular. There will sometimes be restrictions on the age of purchasers - say over 55 in some instances and sometimes first time buyers with some income qualifications.

It is possible to buy further shares up to 100%. If only a percentage is owned and the owner wishes to sell the housing association have the right to find a buyer.

This month has seen an active market. The sales department are at the time of writing agreeing at least one sale per day and the rental department have had record figures in the third quarter of the year. Once again I have not mentioned Brexit but if the Governor of the Bank of England proves to be correct I think there will be much to say in the years to come!

A leaseholder pays an annual ground rent. This used to be a fairly nominal amount but some new leases provide for major increases after often every 33 years. This has been abused and government wolverhampton west magazine

CROWN GREEN GARDENS, CODSALL A small and select development of just four new build residences providing superb family homes which are being constructed to the highest of standards in a highly regarded and sought after area. The development lies within walking distance of the village centre with its full range of amenities and its excellent schooling for which is renowned.

Well-proportioned and spacious accommodation to each property to include hall, cloakroom, lounge, kitchen / dining room, laundry, four good bedrooms, en-suite shower room and bathroom. Drives laid in brick paviours, either a double or a single garage and fully turfed rear gardens. (EPC: tbc).

OFFERS AROUND ÂŁ414,950 - ÂŁ434,950 VIEWING: Please contact the Tettenhall Office.

13-15 High Street, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 8QS Telephone: (01902) 747744

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

www.berrimaneaton.co.uk 13

advertisement feature

U n d e r s ta n d i n g i n h e r i ta n c e ta x

I often get asked by my clients how the relatively new main residence nil rate band works and also the implications of gifting money or property to their children so I thought I would look at the consequences of both.

Main Residence nil Rate Band This came into effect for anyone who died after 5th July 2015 who owned their home and is passing the property to a direct descendent.

A direct descendant is defined as a child, grandchild or other lineal descendant (including a spouse or civil partner of a lineal descendant – including their widow, widower or surviving civil partner). A child will include step, adopted and foster 14

children and also a child where the individual was appointed as a guardian or special guardian for that child when they are under 18.

the maximum available amount of the RnRB will increase yearly and for deaths in the following tax years it will be:

Nephews, nieces, siblings and other relatives are not included.

• £125,000 in 2018/19

The home must be left to direct descendants so that it becomes part of the beneficiaries’ estate following the death. Where a home is left to beneficiaries who are a mixture of direct descendants and other individuals, the value of the home must be apportioned between all of them.

• £175,000 in 2020/21

An estate will also be entitled to the Residential Nil Rate Band (RNRB) when an individual has downsized to a less valuable home or sold / given away their home after 7th July 2015. Gifts with reservation will qualify as HMRC treats the home as being included in the estate. The RNRB may therefore be available for that home if it is given away to a direct descendant.

• £150,000 in 2019/20 In later years, the maximum RNRB will increase in line with inflation (based on the Consumer Prices Index).

For married couples and civil partners, any unused RNRB can be transferred when the surviving spouse or civil partner dies after 5th April 2017, regardless of when first death occurred GiftinG Money oR PRoPeRty to childRen New research from Direct Line has found that 6.9 million people (20 per cent) have given their children “their inheritance” early in order to avoid or reduce the amount of inheritance tax payable on their estate. wolverhampton west magazine

Whilst this is a sure fire way of reducing this tax burden, providing they survive for 7 years, it does come with drawbacks.

Firstly, it means that they have lost control or access to that money or property and, should their circumstances change in the future, it could be that their standard of living is adversely affected.

Secondly, with today’s society, we are seeing an increased number of divorces and once children have been gifted money or property it becomes part of their estate which is then taken into consideration when a divorce settlement is reached.

Should you wish to find out more about reducing your liability to Inheritance Tax please feel free to contact us.

Historically, the use of Flexible Trusts has been the method of source to try and protect what they have safely in the knowledge that if their children do get divorced or are made bankrupt, part or all of their inheritance is not lost however this does entail losing control of that capital.

So what are the alternatives if they want to protect their estate but still retain control and more importantly access to capital if required?

We have for many clients recommended products that qualify for Business Property Relief (BPR) as this gives two great benefits: 1. You have to survive for only 2 years and not 7 if gifting or investing in a trust.

2. You still retain control and access to your capital. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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.

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.

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

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

If you would like to attend please email: info@midlandifa.co.uk 15

Christmas Candles

Create the perfect festive atmosphere in your home with the addition of a Christmassy candle.

There are plenty of seasonal fragrances to choose from that’ll waft uplifting aromas all around your home and provide the perfect welcome to your guests every time they step through your door this Christmas.

And, because everyone loves candles, they’ll also make great stocking-fillers too.

Christmas fragrance and candles at Laura Ashley

Fair Isle Print Candle £6.99.

New Look

Winter’s Mist Large Star Candle £12.

Sainsbury’s Home

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Christmas dining and candles at Laura Ashley

Reindeer Print Candle £17.95. Emma Bridgwater at Daisy Park

Spruce Ring Red Candle £16.

Laura Ashley

Mistletoe and fir candle £12.50. M&S

Blue Spruce and Frosted Pine Candle £14. National Trust

wolverhampton west magazine

DINING from Leekes

With the festive season approaching there has never been a better time to update your interior. At Leekes you’ll find everything you need to get guest ready including our extensive range of dining sets and tableware, perfect for family feast.

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19

What’s going on in the world of

kitchen design?

Whether you’re simply refreshing your tired kitchen or extending your property, now’s the perfect time to plan your dream kitchen at Carvers.

The industrial look is huge right now… from sultry greys, textured woods and mixtures of metals such as brass and copper. Homeowners are looking for more diversity and are being braver with key elements of their design choices.

Splashbacks for example, whether coloured glass, smoked mirror, or rust finish patinas allow for strong statements to be made which are relatively easy to update in a few years when current trends move on.

Pastel pallets are really popular this year. The use of colour in the kitchen is extremely important and should reflect homeowners’ personalities and their needs. For instance, a space for cooking should be light and bright, while spaces designed for entertaining could have a darker essence to provide a suitable ambience. We’re seeing tones of pink, coppers and brass throughout 2018 and into 2019. Our latest showroom display has copper handles, a copper tap and even a copper flecked worktop!

Another colour to watch out for this year is blue… from indigo inks to baby blue and teal. Blue

is the statement colour of the moment. Many high-end designs feature dark blues with exposed brickwork, a trend that is popular amongst the team at Carvers.

With homeowners investing and extending, open-plan living remains as strong as ever and islands or breakfast bars can also work as both a storage area and a place for dining. Add further value to your island by installing technology - the addition of a boiling water tap, down draft hood and induction hob or even a wireless phone charger, will mean everyone can get involved at meal times. Where better to showcase your collection of wines, than an island with a wine cooler?

If you’re still saving for that dream kitchen (did you know Carvers

now offer interest free credit?) then a simple kitchen make-over can make the world of difference.

Bright wall tiles mixed with open shelving is becoming increasingly popular with homeowners able to make a statement in their kitchen by adding their own personality. It’s the perfect chance to add lots of greenery with bright, airy kitchens providing the perfect setting for house plants and herbs. With wall units removed, its often a great idea to think about tall larder storage for those unsightly essentials and supermarket own-brand goods.

Even though handleless designs still account for 50% of our sales, handles are coming back! Think bold, beautiful handles against modern kitchens and delicate bright coppers, rose golds and chrome knobs on painted shakers. A perfect combination!

Why not call in to see one of Wolverhampton’s best kept secrets, where the Carver team will talk you through over 20 kitchen displays, and 25 bathrooms! A full design and installation service is available and we also offer flexible finance packages that can help make your new kitchen more affordable.

For a complete one stop shop contact Carvers on: 01902 577080 Littles Lane, Wolverhampton, WV1 1JY www.carvers.co.uk

20

wolverhampton west magazine

Buy Now Pay Later T&Cs apply

Divine Designs at Carvers

Visit our showrooms and discover inspirational ideas to transform your bathroom, with the latest collections at Carvers, along with tiles from Tile Choice.

From large and spacious to small and compact, our showrooms offer a wide selection of bathrooms and accessories from leading brands to suit all styles and budgets.

Littles Lane, Wolverhampton, WV1 1JY Tel: 01902 577090 www.carvers.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

21

Deck the halls Make your home look amazing this season with these must-have Christmas accessories and decorations, that’ll all serve to fill your room with plenty of festive cheer:

Christmas Decorations at M&S

Reindeer Print Pate £22.95. Emma Bridgwater at Daisy Park.

Reindeer Throw £16.99. Home Sense.

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Christmas Decorations at Debenhams

Reindeer Print Bowl £19.95. Emma Bridgwater at Daisy Park.

Stocking £4.

John Lewis.

Seat Pad £12. M&Co.

Wreath £8, Primark.

wolverhampton west magazine

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

23

Wombourne and district choral society

to perform the schubert mass Wombourne and District Choral Society are now busy practising for their next concert which is a performance of the Schubert Mass in E Flat Major to be performed with professional soloists and a 28 piece orchestra.

The concert will be held on Saturday 24th November 2018 at the Wolverhampton Grammar School in Compton, Wolverhampton WV3 9RB, commencing at 7.30pm.

The choir will be conducted by their Musical Director, Ian Clarke.

During the last year of his short life, Schubert composed a phenomenal amount of music. His Mass No. 6 in E-flat Major was composed for the same Viennese church in which he had served as one of Beethoven’s pallbearers. This mass was intended for concert, not liturgical use, and it reverberates with Beethovenesque architecture and Schubertian lyricism. The scoring is unique, giving an active role to the three trombones, emphasising the lower woodwinds and brass, and making hypnotic use of the timpani. Schubert uses a block-like treatment of the orchestra’s three instrumental families, which play

together in symbolic expression of the working of the Trinity.

Light refreshments will be available in the concert interval and tickets are £15 each with children under 16 free. Tickets can be bought online at www.wombournechoralsociety. org.uk, calling 01902 744447 or by buying at the door on the night.

Wombourne and District Choral Society is a well-established, mixed choir of some 80 singers, drawn from the local area and has a varied repertoire, mainly full classical works, often performed with soloists and an orchestra. Patron of the choir is John Rutter, the renowned and popular choral composer.

New singers are always welcome to the choir. Rehearsals are held on Monday evenings, 7.30 to 9.30pm during term time at Ounsdale High School, Ounsdale Road, Wombourne.

For more information, contact our Membership Secretary, Eileen Brown at eileenbrown31@talktalk.net.

34 Enville Road, Wall Heath Kingswinford, West Midlands DY6 0JT By appointment only

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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.

01384 400016 www.wallheathbathrooms.co.uk info@wallheathbathrooms.co.uk 24

wolverhampton west magazine

new solid oak ranges available in store

www.merridale-furnishers.co.uk Made to Measure Blinds and Curtains available in a wide range of stylish fabrics

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www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Established over 20 years w w w. e a t o n k i t c h e n d e s i g n s . c o . u k 25

The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton

Local companies support local charities At the invitation of the Mayor, Councillor Phil Page, the Mayor’s Parlour was the venue for the annual presentation of cheques arising from the staging in July at Aldersley Leisure Village, of the city’s unique fund-raising event, Best Foot Forward.

Cheques for £4,250 were presented to Central Youth Theatre and Wolverhampton MS Therapy Centre. The club’s own Charitable Trust benefited by the same amount. In addition other local charities had used the event as their own sponsored walk to boost their own funds by over £6,500.

This means that since Best Foot Forward was first held in 2013, local charities have benefited by almost £120,000.

The charity funds were provided by over 40 companies and organisations, who each donated from £250 upwards to create the “Treasure Chest” amounting this year to £12,625.This sum was released from the Treasure Chest by almost 500 members of the public completing laps of the Aldersley track - with each lap releasing £1 from the Treasure Chest for the event charities.

invitation to other companies to join us to make the Treasure Chest even bigger”.

Planning is already underway for Best Foot Forward 2019, which will be staged at Aldersley Leisure Village on Saturday, 6th July 2019.

The Rotary Club will be pleased to provide more information to companies or organisations interested in joining the ranks of event Patrons.

For general information visit www.wolverhamptonbestfootforward.com For specific enquiries either email Geoff Lowndes, via bff.online@hotmail.co.uk, or phone Mike Boyce on 07976 612276

In a nail-biting conclusion to the day, the target laps were achieved with just minutes to spare before the closure at 8pm.

The event is organised by The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton - says Club President Paul Lockley”We are proud to be the catalyst in staging this event which provides support where it is needed in our city. It can only take place as a result of the support of the public in clocking the laps at Aldersley, and more than forty community-minded companies and organisations who donate the funds which make up the Treasure Chest. We would love to be able to provide even more help to charities in the future, and extend a warm

Susan Husband of the MS Therapy Centre and Holly Parry of Central Youth Theatre, accept cheques from President Paul Lockley and the Mayor, Cllr Phil Page

These are the companies and organisations whose generosity makes Best Foot Forward possible: Wolverhampton City Council • The James Beattie Charitable Trust • Express & Star • Wolverhampton West Magazine • Berriman Eaton • Blakemore Foundation • Brindley Garages Group • Broad Planning & Architecture • Butco Heating Ltd • Capital Appliances • Centra Heat • FBC Manby Bowdler • Fern Plastic Products Ltd • First City Limited • Handelsbanken • Hollingsworth & Co • Jaguar Land Rover • JN Dairies • Marstons • Laystall Engineering • Mercedes Benz, Wolverhampton • Millers Jewellers • Muras Baker Jones • Narrow Aisles • The Mount Hotel Country Manor • • A Park View Hotel & Hamiltons Restaurant • Pertemps • Sandford Carpets • PIA Wealth Management • HL Smith Transmissions Ltd • treadsetters • the West Brom • Peter Posh Formal Suit Hire • Jo Potts Financial Planning • Rees Page • Rogers & Partners • Rudells the Jewellers • St James’s Place • Towler Shaw Roberts • Tromans & Co • Wedge Holdings • Wolverhampton City Credit Union

26

wolverhampton west magazine

As seen on...

DIY SOS

Exhibite d at Grand Designs Live Show

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27

Win a miXed case oF 6 aWaRd -Winning Wines

with halfpenny green Wine estate Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, near Wombourne, South Staffs, produces a range of 13 awardwinning English wines from grapes grown onsite, including whites, reds, rosés, and a selection of traditional method sparkling wines.

The wines are served in the site’s own restaurant, and sold in the three-floor shop adjacent.

Additionally, a selection of the Wine Estate’s vintages can be found adorning the shelves in many local farm shops, garden centres and delis, as well as selected branches of Marks and Spencer and Waitrose throughout the Midlands.

To learn more about Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, head to www.halfpennygreen.co.uk

COMpETITIOn To share in the festive celebrations this Christmas, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate is giving one lucky reader the chance to take home a mixed case of six of their award-winning wines.

For a chance to win, just answer the following question correctly:

How many award-winning wines does Halfpenny Green Wine Estate produce?

Email your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk or on a postcard to Wolverhampton West magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY. 28

All entries to be received by Friday 30th November 2018.

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. No cash or alternative prize available.

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29

“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas”

The most magically lit-up time of the year is approaching sooner than we anticipated and you cannot deny the excitement.

Especially since där lighting have delivered their amazing Christmas collection, that everyone at Lighting R Us loves. A whole new meaning has been given to Christmas decorations.

Add some Christmas spirit into your home with this spectacular collection of festive goodies.

Including large LED stars, Christmas trees and oversized baubles.

Forget your average wreaths and fairy lights; Santa has certainly come to town with där’s festive range of decorative lighting. The holiday themed products add some modern, yet festive touch into your home. Whilst we all love our tacky and traditional decorations, that we use every single year; they’re a thing of the past now.

One of the best things about the range is that they suit all colour schemes for your home! We have the gorgeous golden browns for warmer schemes such as reds,

yellows, beiges etc. and the sparkling silver tones for your cooler hues, such as greys, purples, blues etc.

not just Christmas. Especially the stars and hearts, as they give a shabby chic feel to any home.

The most amazing feature of these charming lights though, is not only are they modern and stylish, but a lot of them are battery operated. Finally, a way to display dazzling Christmas lights without the hassle of wires, after wires and even more wires. Moreover, the mains operated items are all LED! Most people don’t exactly look forward to their electricity bill when the holidays are over, but där’s stunning range is a perfect solution to beat the high costs during the high season

If you like the look of där’s Christmas range then come visit our lighting showroom in Aldersley, Wolverhampton to see them in their full effect, as well as browsing through the brochure at the entire collection, which you can also view on our website.

Our personal favourites from the collection are the LED baubles, coming in various sizes. Teaming the two up together, can create a dazzling display anywhere. Another favourite, that we simply love, are the colour-changing penguins.

The cute, little, duo can be placed anywhere for a festive feel.

www.lightingrus.co.uk sales@lightingrus.oc.uk 01902 757825

The factor that puts the Brandy all over the pudding for this Christmas collection, is that a lot of these festive items can be used as décor for any time of the year,

Unit 1a, Walton Works Industrial Estate, Macrome Rd, Aldersley, Wolverhampton, WV6 9HD

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31

Welcome to the world of

FrithRugs LOOK AFTER YOUR RUGS “To keep your rug in top condition, rotate it once every few months to ensure colour and wear is kept even - particularly in areas with plenty of natural light.

COLOUR TRENDS

Cannock Showroom

The addition of a new rug can be the final piece of the interior design jigsaw, the finishing touch to your room.

Or, it could be your starting point, with everything else in the room selected to complement your rug.

If you have been feeling uninspired by what’s available you have obviously never visited FrithRugs, Cannock, where you can choose from over 15,000 rugs in stock.

The rugs are displayed in an incredible purpose built 17,000 sq. ft. showroom which means you will be spoilt for choice.

FrithRugs, Cannock, has been serving the population of Staffordshire for over 19 years and this family-run business prides itself on an exceptionally high level of customer service delivered by expert and knowledgeable staff. FrithRugs offers exclusively designed contemporary rugs that you won’t find anywhere else and is also renowned for its staggering choice of traditional rugs from China, Persia, India and Pakistan. The company also offers a bespoke rug service which allows consumers and businesses to design their own individual rugs.

ALL EYES ON THE FLOOR “If the rug is going to be the focal point of the room, choose something bold and really go for it. Don’t forget that when you are purchasing a rug for an existing room take into account colours already present in your upholstery and curtains. Take a swatch of fabric and our expert staff will help ensure colours in your rug complement your existing decoration.

MAKE YOUR BIG ROOM COSY “In very large rooms, use rugs to define certain areas. Use a rug in the seating area and leave the rest of the floor bare - this will clearly define and zone areas of the room.

DON’T BE SUCH A SQUARE! “Think outside the box. Rugs don’t have to be rectangular. There are some great circular rugs available as well as runners, square rugs and even octagonal rugs. And don’t forget that some rugs will look just as good on the wall as they will on the floor.

“If you like your home décor to be bang on trend, then adding a new rug is one of the quickest and easiest ways to update your room for the new season.

“This autumn/winter one of the hottest interior design colours around is sharkskin grey. It is one of the most flexible colours you can choose for you home because it is such a neutral colour which will complement any other colour. It is also really modern and works well in a contemporary home.

“Navy and light blue are also going to be popular. We like dark blue when you want to add a touch of drama to a room - and we especially recommend it with white.

Pale blue will of course work with many other pastel colours and is a good shade for bedrooms.

“Mustard or terracotta are lovely colours to have at home when the darker nights are drawing in. These colours add warmth and elegance and are perfect for classic rooms think drawing room or dining room.”

For more information, visit www.frithrugs.co.uk or telephone 0845 4 900 600.

With thousands of rugs in all shapes, sizes and colours, Andrew Frith, from FrithRugs, shares some of his top tips for finding the right rug.

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wolverhampton west magazine

Our stunning selection of Traditional rugs and large rugs is the largest in the UK and includes finest quality hand-crafted designs from all over the world. There are over 30,000 rugs and large rugs on display in our showrooms with styles

to suit setting and budget - from machine woven rugs from Europe’s leading manufacturers to precious hand-knotted masterpieces from India, Pakistan, Turkey, Afghanistan, Persia and China. A world of choice for every home.

The UK’s largest stocks of Quality Rugs & Large Rugs

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04/10/2018 08:51

For the love of Wood If you’ve had any building or renovation work done, you’ll be no stranger to skips and what can end up in them! Bricks, plasterboard, rubble and general junk, but also perfectly useable materials like wood, destined for landfill.

Hoping to get us all “doing good with waste wood” is a new community enterprise in Wolverhampton.

‘Wood Saints’ promises to save businesses money, create jobs for local people and give unwanted wood a new lease of life as shabby chic and rustic designer furniture.

Mick Moreton, Manager at Wood Saints explains how it works: “We’re cheaper than a skip so construction firms pay us to remove wood from building sites. We take pallets, offcuts, scaffolding boards, floorboards and joists, which we sort, re-sell, or re-use to make products for sale. Wood that can’t be reused is turned into firewood and kindling which is also for sale. This work enables us to create jobs, training and volunteering opportunities in wood recycling and retail.”

At the heart of the operation is a 10,000 sq. ft. warehouse, The Wood Depot on Dixon Street, a haven

for wood lovers. Looking around it’s easy to see why TV presenter and upcycling entrepreneur, Jay Blades, has already given Wood Saints the thumbs up.

Inside is an inspiring space. There’s a timber yard and a carpenter’s workshop - all the furniture on display in the showroom is handmade onsite using reclaimed wood. An online store and made to order service is available too.

With so much wood to collect, sort, re-use and sell, there are opportunities for around 20 volunteers to get involved in the business this year.

The Wood Depot Dixon Street Wolverhampton WV2 2BX (Opposite Hydrobolt)

01902 556683 07950 347718 Open Weekdays 9am – 4.30pm Thursdays 9am – 7pm Saturdays 10am – 3pm

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wolverhampton west magazine

ness celebrating s in business use with roll stock er 90 rolls in stock Laminates d Flooring

Wolverhampton’s largest independent carpet & rug specialist

• Family run business celebrating over 36 years in business • Massive warehouse with roll stock comprising of over 90 rolls in stock • Karndean, Laminates and Wood Flooring

• Vinyls • Bigger than it looks • Personalised gifts • Clocks • Kadai Firebowls

We have now moved inside Sandford Carpets, Wolverhampton Curtains, Blinds, Stock Rolls of Curtains, Wadding, Bump, Interlining, Fusible, Blackout Lining, Cotton Sateen Lining, Tie Backs, Curtains Poles, Upholstery Fabrics and Pattern Books You will find us at: 128 Trysull Road, Bradmore, Wolverhampton WV3 7JF Tel: 01902 335599 www.sandfordcarpetsandcurtains.co.uk Open: Tuesday to Saturday 9am until 5pm

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Crossword Across 1 Small spring flowers (8) 6 Slender, narrow (4) 8 Climbing apparatus (6) 9 Untidy person (6) 10 Deprived of weapons (8) 13 Distort (4) 14 Confession, disclosure (9) 17 Hinged barrier (4) 18 Revolution, twirl (8) 19 Exercise treatment (6) 21 Tainted, unclean (6) 23 Removed trapped air from radiator (4) 24 Funds, budget (8)

Puzzle answers on page 160 Down 2 Part of the crew of a touring band (6) 3 Rotter, bonder (3) 4 Being careful with expenditure (9) 5 Distress call (initials) (3) 6 Evicted, expelled (6,3) 7 Ailing, weak (6) 11 Hailed, spoke to (9) 12 Illegally leaving the armed forces (9) 15 The Lovely Bones actress ______ Weisz (6) 16 Croaky, raspy (6) 20 Clumsy fool (3) 22 Wordplay (3)

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Clifford Constantine Crazy Harry

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Wolverhampton

Half Marathon Events On September 2nd once again hundreds took to the streets for the annual fundraiser, The Carver Wolverhampton Half Marathon Events.

The weather was good and the day went very well and everyone seemed to enjoy doing their chosen event.

Race Director Mary Harding thanked the sponsors, Carvers, Cousins Furniture, Banks’s, Paycare, City of Wolverhampton Council and all the other organisations that came together with their services to support the event, and, of course, the chosen charities - Compton Care, Give Us a Break (Wolverhampton) and Wolverhampton and Bilston Athletics Club.

The cheque presentation for 2018 will take place on Monday 10th December at the invitation of the Mayor.

www.carverwolverhamptonhalfmarathonevents.co.uk 38

wolverhampton west magazine

domestic contracts commercial contracts There's no subsTiTuTe for qualiTy 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.

Public contracts new build

The building company has over 50 years of experience in construction, covering commercial and domestic development, with many of the carpenters and bricklayers having been employed by the company for over 20 years.

The company is well established as being outstanding in its refurbishment and maintenance contracts and is considerate of the care and understanding needed when working on projects in both domestic and commercial sectors.

offering services To a diverse range of clienTs ThroughouT The uK

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Phone: 01902 499 919 Email: info@three-pines.co.uk

39

RECIPE Smør Bullar Makes: 20-24 cookies Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 8-10 minutes These are festive Scandinavian cookies, though no-one seems to know their exact origins. These small spheres of butter, flour, powdered sugar and nuts, dusted with more powdered sugar for good measure are a Christmas delight.

40

Ingredients • • • • • •

225g Butter 60g Icing sugar 300g Plain flour, sifted ¼ tsp salt 1 tsp vanilla essence 100g Pecan nuts or walnuts, chopped fine • Extra icing sugar for dusting Method 1. Preheat oven to 200C/Gas mark 6.

2. Cream the butter and sugar together thoroughly. Add flour, salt, vanilla and pecans, and mix well. Cover dough and chill for half an hour.

3. Form dough into small balls (about 1 inch / 2.5cm diameter).

If the dough seems too crumbly don’t be tempted to add water or the resulting cookies will be hard, just let the heat from your hands gradually bring it all together. Place 2 inches / 5cm apart on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake until set but NOT brown (8-10 minutes).

4. Allow to cool for 3 minutes before removing from baking sheet, then roll in icing sugar.

When completely cool, roll in the icing sugar again. They make lovely festive handmade gifts in pretty boxes. wolverhampton west magazine

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wolverhampton west magazine

val hever Blinds a pErFEC T FIT EVEry TIME

Val Hever Blinds has a reputation for the quality of their blinds, made to measure curtains, expert fitting service and great customer service.

Operating from their showroom in Tettenhall Wood they only stock the best quality and most varied range of blinds and curtains on the market. With over 30 years’ experience in the trade you can trust them to give total satisfaction on all your requirements.

With so much choice available, selecting the right blind or curtain for your home can be difficult, but Val Hever Blinds will help you to select the most suitable product from their extensive range and can advise you on types of blinds, curtains, textures, colours and fit.

Their range of blinds includes vertical blinds, roller blinds, venetian blinds, pleated blinds, roman blinds, conservatory blinds and awnings. Their expertise lies in fitting perfect fit blinds to windows which provide a sleek finish to your window. They offer a free no-obligation home appointment and the fitting service is included in the price of the blinds.

It’s all about living

They supply and fit blinds to not only homes, but commercial businesses, schools, colleges and local authorities.

Quality, value for money and personal service are really important to them and they go that extra mile to ensure you are totally satisfied with your blinds or curtains.

Simply give them a call on 01902 754129 to find out more or pop in for a coffee and meet the team. They’re always happy to help and with their huge array of styles and possibilities you’ll have no problem finding the perfect blind or curtain to dress your window!

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

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43

WasheR-Wise

Fast Friendly Service at prices you can afford Washer-wise is a local company run by service engineer Eddie Johnson on a non-VAT sole trader basis.

Eddie has been in the domestic appliance trade since 1982 having 35 years of experience of nearly every brand you can imagine. He always attempts to repair first but can provide cost effective replacements if this becomes uneconomical.

The bulk of Eddie’s experience in the trade has come from years of hands-on experience in customers houses but in the earlier part of his career he gained his technical knowledge, training with other engineers. This came within such companies as Ariston, Hoover and Indesit, three of the biggest names in the domestic appliance world back then as well as many smaller independent repair agencies. He has also gained extensive experience in

domestic appliance sales, having worked closely with companies such as Comet, Apollo 2000 and Euronics amongst many others.

Over the last 15-20 years Eddie and Washer-wise has been closely supporting local Euronics dealer Goulds TV of Sedgley but unfortunately after 50 years Goulds ceased trading recently so Eddie took the bold step of taking on their phone number in a bid to continue looking after the existing customers’ needs, not only for white goods sales and repairs but now for all new sales of items such as TV, DVD, Gas and even Refrigeration.

The customers are slowly starting to get used to not having a showroom to visit and Eddie is applying his personal touch to dealing with a more wide-ranging level of initial enquiry. The main aim has always remained, customer satisfaction and as such Eddie works mostly on referral so this is really vital.

The company can carry out reliable repairs to virtually any make or model of white goods appliance, ranging from Beko, Bosch, Hoover, Hotpoint, Indesit and the more prestigious names such as Siemens or even Miele. If replacing appliances, virtually any brand can be sourced to suit the individual requirements of the customer.

The customer is always the priority, not the profit.

The products are installed and delivered normally within a few days of initial instruction and Eddie can even dispose of the customers old appliance if required. For more detailed information just give Eddie a call on 07973618169.

• Gas boilers fixed and installed • Gas hobs/cookers • Gas fires • Gas appliance servicing • Landlord certificates • Plumbing problems • Leaks • Power flushing

Fast reliable service at competitive prices Call Jamie on: 07931 752038 or 01902 758073 Email: Jbheatinginwolverhampton.co.uk 8 Cunningham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7 XJ 44

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wolverhampton west magazine

Charity challenge team raise £13,500

The Lord Bilston Team celebrate raising 13,500 for Compton Care.

Photo courtesy of Paul Berry.

In July 2018 a group of eighteen friends took on their most extreme fundraising challenge to date. The Lord Bilston Big Challenge team ‘Carried the Load’ as they transported 2 members of staff from Wolverhampton charity Compton Care a total of 140 miles.

The group carried Compton Care Nurse Specialist Debbie Smith and Marketing Manager Grace Lee from Swansea to Wolverhampton on the back of a tandem bike, in a stretcher and in a canoe in a gruelling challenge that lasted 25.5 hours.

Group leader Brendon Turner was inspired to take on the challenge in honour of his late father, Lord Bilston Dennis Turner, who received support from Compton Care following his cancer diagnosis in 2014.

Mr Turner commented: “We know the staff at Compton do fantastic work caring for people who have been diagnosed with an incurable illness. They carry a load for so many people at their most stressful and sad times, which can be really difficult, so on this occasion we wanted to ‘Carry the Load’ for them.

The Lord Bilston team carry Compton staff in stretchers over the Brecon Beacon Mountains. Photo courtesy of Morgan Visual.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

The team pause for a photo at the top of the Brecon Beacons. Photo courtesy of Morgan Visual Media.

He added: “I am just keeping my Dad’s memory alive in a positive way, whilst at the same time helping out a really caring and important charity.”

In a special celebration event held on Saturday 29th September Mr Turner announced the total raised from the Carry the Load challenge to be over £13,500.

Compton Care Marketing Manager and one of the staff members who were carried as part of this year’s challenge, Grace Lee commented: “This is a truly incredible amount which will change the lives of so many local people. This amount will fund the equivalent of 119 patients receiving personal care and support in their own homes. Since starting their fundraising journey in 2014 the dedicated group have raised over £77,000 for Compton.

Ms Lee added: “We cannot thank the challenge team enough for what they have done for Compton.

We simply would not exist were it not for groups of people like this who choose to give up their time and their money to ensure that local people who are living with incurable conditions are able to access the care and support they need and deserve.”

For more pictures and videos from the Carry the Load challenge please visit twitter.com/lordbilston 47

Black Country

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A wet drizzly day in October didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t deter new and exciting customers from attending Black Country Firewoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual open day.

This was an opportunity for those attending to learn all about the different products on offer, meet their local chimney sweep and see the latest in wood burning technology from Flaming Fires, all whilst enjoying a complimentary slice of wood fired pizza and a pint of local beer!

Rich Clarke, James Pugh, Mike Snelson, John Nomikos

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wolverhampton west magazine

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49

Prepare the garden

for winter

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

While it’s mild and there’s no frost in the ground plant bare root hedging and fruit trees.

For some winter colour in the garden use shrubs such as Viburnum fragrans or Bodnantense Dawn, Skimmias, Gaultherias or Leucothoe. There is a wide choice of smaller shrubs available which can be planted into baskets and pots for colour during the winter and then transferred into the garden in the spring when you replant for summer.

Continue planting pansies, wallflowers and winter bedding, the sooner it’s done now the better. If we do get a sharp frost winter pansy flowers will droop down but once they thaw out in the sun they pop back up giving colour even on a cold day. November is the ideal month for planting tulip bulbs.

As the end of November approaches, many people start to purchase Christmas house plants. One of the best Christmas plants is the Poinsettia. It gives instant colour in a room. They like good light during the day and a warm room, never in a draught. Only water when the soil

50

is dry and never stand in water for longer than 10 minutes.

In a cooler room the brightly coloured cyclamen is ideal. They need good light at all times. Only water just as the foliage begins to wilt and make sure that any excess water is removed from saucers after 15 minutes. Also consider the Christmas Cherry with its shiny red-orange berries, Christmas cacti with its beautiful shrimp like red, pink, white or lavender flowers. Azaleas will flourish in either a warm or cool room and are very easy to keep, requiring plenty of water. Cacti and succulents have seen a resurgence this year and are ideal presents for encouraging the younger generation into gardening.

Along with many garden centres we offer Planted Arrangements

in baskets, which along with the colourful houseplants can be gift wrapped, making them an ideal present. For a living gift consider buying a shrub for the garden or a planted-up tub or hanging basket specifically designed for winter colour.

From the end of November, freshly cut Christmas trees will be available in centres.

When you get your tree home, put it in a stand or pot that can be kept moist, as warm temperatures and dry air inside the home make the tree absorb water very rapidly. Keep away from hot radiators, open fires and TV sets. This also applies to rooted trees, especially if you’re planning on planting it in the garden after Christmas.

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51

Garden View

Plants for Christmas

With Christmas just around the corner I’m often asked which houseplants I recommend as gifts.

Here are my top five.

Hippeastrum / Amaryllis - is a remarkable bulb, which produces 60cm / 2ft tall, fleshy drainpipe stems and flamboyant trumpet flowers up to 20cm /8in across.

‘Red Lion’ with deep scarlet flowers; ‘Apple Blossom’ with pink-tinged white flowers, and ‘Christmas Gift’ with plain white flowers, are readily available. You can buy them as DIY plant-it-yourself kits, or as ready-planted gifts.

Citrus bushes make interesting presents. Sold at this time of year with both flowers and developing fruit, they are deliciously scented.

Lemon varieties ‘Meyer’ and ‘Four Seasons’ are lovely but also consider calamondin oranges.

The plant should be kept in a light, frost-free spot over the winter with a minimum night temperature of 5C, then in the summer the pot can be moved outside.

52

Cyclamen persicum is wonderfully decorative. The flowers range from white, through pink, to red. This is probably a gift for a more experienced gardener as persuading it to flower again can be a challenge, but it can be done. Keep it in full light in winter, at a steady 13C-16C. Give it a liquid feed fortnightly while it is in flower. Water less as the stems start to bend and collapse, then keep it completely dry for three months during its dormant period. Gently introduce water again as new leaves appear.

Schlumbergera x buckleyi, the Christmas cactus is a perennial favourite. It has protruding stamens at the end of succulent, flattened leaves, and pretty flowers. It likes high humidity while flowering so mist it regularly it with a fine spray of clean water, and feed it monthly with a high-potash feed. When it’s finished flowering put the plant in a light spot and keep the compost just moist.

Hyacinthus orientalis ‘Ostara’ is a stunning hyacinth with deep-blue flowers, powerfully scented and particularly nice when planted as a trio in a bowl or basket.

Christmas hyacinths are ‘forced’

to flower earlier than they would naturally. They need a cool spot, preferably no more than 13C, so that they do not flop. No-one wants a floppy hyacinth! The bulbs can be planted in the garden afterwards so will continue to provide pleasure in future years.

Viburnum x bodnantense ‘Dawn’ is not a houseplant but it makes a fabulous gift. It flowers from November, while the leaves are still on, through the winter. The pink flowers are scented and a few sprigs in a small vase at this time of year are just joyous. Even better, it is totally hardy so is great for the non-green-fingered, and can be planted out of a pot at any time, if the ground isn’t frozen.

Don’t wrap plants, just tie a big bow around the pot. It’s a thoughtful touch to provide printed or handwritten instructions for aftercare.

Make sure any living plant is well watered before you hand it over. They will probably be a bit neglected over the festive period, but a good watering should make sure that they last past New Year.

Happy festive gardening.

By Rachael Leverton wolverhampton west magazine

BaRe-Root anD Root-Ball planTS eXplained

By Andi Way, Garden Designer at Boningale Garden Creations

The dormant season, lasting from mid-autumn to early spring, is generally agreed to be the best time to plant bareroot and root-ball plants.

Unsure of what we mean by ‘bare-root’ or ‘root-ball’?

Hopefully our simple explanation will help you to make the most of your outdoor space.

preventing the fibrous roots from drying out. Bare-root plants and trees are typically sold between the ages of one and three years old, and because of their large clumps of root, they will establish more quickly once in the ground.

It’s important, however, to keep the roots damp (put them in a bucket of water) and plant the specimens in their permanent position as quickly as possible - except if the ground is frozen or waterlogged.

BARE-ROOT PLANTS are selfexplanatory, simply meaning plants with their bare roots exposed.

They are sold without compost and are wrapped in polythene,

Make sure they are in situ before the spring growing season.

ROOT-BALL PLANTS usually come in a hessian wrap and wire mesh to hold in the compost or soil and roots. This is a common method for larger semi-mature trees, conifers and other evergreens.

Make sure you dig a hole that’s at least twice as wide as the root-ball, but only as deep as the root-ball itself. Plant the root-ball too deep and it could encourage disease to enter the trunk.

THE BEST TIME TO PLANT The optimum planting season runs from November through to March/ April. At this time of year, trees and hedging can be purchased more cost-effectively as bare-root or root-balled, depending on the variety.

If you need any further information, or want to seek professional advice from our award-winning garden designers, please visit us at www.boningale-garden-creations.co.uk or call 01902 376500.

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53

perton Christmas Fair On 1st December 2018, Perton is hosting its 6th annual Christmas Fair.

Year-on-year, the fairs reputation and size has grown, creating what we see today. A massive community event with over 40 stalls booked, containing everything from gifts to cards; there really is something for everyone. It’s a fabulous way to start the festive season giving shoppers the opportunity to get unique presents that high street stores don’t

sell, as well as supporting their local community. The event is conveniently placed in Anders Square, civic centre and the church so there really are plenty of stalls to browse.

In addition to an expanse of arts, crafts, gifts and food stalls there will also be live entertainment on the outdoor stage, award-winning drinks, children’s activities, and prizes. Santa will once again be busy in his Grotto at Perton Library, remember to book early! Pop into Perton Library to book your

slot. There’ll be fair-ground rides, refreshments in the church and library. We’ll also have live music from the Salvation Army and some surprises for you later in the day!

Are you a local business interested in joining us? We still have some pitches available; please email us at pertonchristmasfair@gmail.com for a booking form.

Stay up to date with our Facebook Page: Perton Christmas Fair.

ALL money raised goes back into our community to purchase new Christmas lights and decorations for Perton, so please come along to Anders Square on Saturday 1st December and support this local event.

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wolverhampton west magazine

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grand Theatre CoMPeTiTioN We have a pair of tickets to give away to the press night on Tuesday 11 December at 7:15pm!

Don’t get caught snoozing this festive season as pantomime returns to the Grand in a spectacular, must-see production of SLEEPING BEAUTY from Saturday 8 December 2018 Sunday 13 January 2019.

Starring the lovely Debbie McGee direct from the Strictly Come Dancing ballroom and Richard Cadell and Sooty.

Panto favourites Doreen Tipton and Ian Adams, both back by popular demand, return for a third consecutive season! And West End star Oliver Ormson (Book of Mormon, The Addams Family) plays the Prince.

By pricking her finger on an enchanted spinning wheel a beautiful Princess is placed under a curse and forced to sleep for 100 years. Can the Princess’ friends help save her? Who will outwit the evil Carabosse and foil her wicked plans?

Will Doreen cope with having a job for once?

With magic, music, comedy and special effects, make SLEEPING BEAUTY the pantomime of your dreams!

You can book tickets or find out more information by visiting grandtheatre.co.uk or calling 01902 42 92 12.

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and send on a postcard with your name, address and telephone number to Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton WV6 7YY. Alternatively email your answer to info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk and include your details by Friday 30th November 2018.

Sooty’s famous sidekick is called?

A. Sweep B. Mop C. Brush D. Dusty 56

Competition Terms and Conditions Entries to be received no later than Friday 30th November 2018. 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.

wolverhampton west magazine

ANd

2 into 1 does go!

My family-run business (MUSIC 2OOO & M2K) has built up an outstanding reputation by providing sales, after-sales and tuition to Wolverhampton for over 24 years now.

At MUSIC 2OOO we stock, demonstrate and sell some of the world’s finest instruments but it’s the after-sales we provide that’s the secret to our success. Using specialist vehicles and drivers to move our heavier items, we deliver all over the UK. With a skilled and professional team who cover all our warranty and repair work, they regularly tune acoustic pianos, repair Digital Keyboards, Pianos & Organs, service Saxophones, Clarinets & Flutes, repair Amplifiers and we also offer a full Guitar service (inc. set-ups).

“Delivering to all parts of the UK and on rare occasions exporting our

instruments, we never distract from retaining our family-run attitude”.

Specialising in Keyboards, Digital Pianos, Guitars and Drums etc. together with all associated accessories, the store also carries a vast and comprehensive range of music books, all of which are available via our full e-commerce website (www.music2000.co.uk) At M2K, our 15 experienced staff members teach over 200 pupils weekly making us one of the largest privately owned music academies in the West Midlands.

The majority of our staff have been with us for many years enjoying the variety that this profession brings them. We also ensure all staff are DBS checked providing you with the reassurance needed before booking lessons with us.

“Both companies steady expansion is testimony to our success, but don’t just take my word

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

for it see what our customers/ pupils have to say by visiting www.music2000.co.uk & www. m2kmusicschoool.co.uk”.

Our Music School offers tuition on Piano, Keyboard, Guitar, Drums, Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute, Violin, Singing and Music Theory - M2K’s professionally trained and qualified staff offer you and your family the opportunity to play the musical instrument you’ve always wanted to.

MUSIC 2OOO 11 Broad Lane, Bradmore, Wolverhampton, WV3 9BN, 01902 345 999 M2K Music School 8 Barn Green, Bradmore, Wolverhampton, WV3 7AY, 09102 563 504 “Have a great musical Christmas and thanks for all your continued support.” By Steve Flaherty ACAM(TD) owner.

57

Tudor House Veterinary Clinic Passionate about pets breeds and greyhounds to make us one of the most popular choices for breeders - we give them everything they need from fertility to puppies under one roof.”

From their fertility clinic the team offer progesterone testing for females so that the ideal day for mating can be exactly pinpointed.

Left to right, Cappi Hollins, Michelle Hollins, Sue Jauncey, John Alexander, Sarah Baker, Ali Farr

Passionate about pets and proud to be a small, independent family-run business, Tudor House Veterinary Clinic has been busy welcoming furry friends - and their owners -into their stunning brand-new Wolverhampton-based surgery ever since it opened its doors on 20th October 2018.

Inspired to form their own independent veterinary clinic after seeing local companies bought out by corporate concerns, owners Sue Jauncey and John Alexander - the clinic’s resident vet - wanted to offer their customers superior service at an affordable price.

duo decided to open Tudor House Veterinary Clinic.

“We have our own in-house laboratory which keeps referrals to an absolute minimum and we provide a personal service that is affordable and friendly.”

“We use our specialist machine, the AIA 360, to determine the best time for mating which maximises the chances of pregnancy and litter size.”

There are plenty of exciting introductory offers running at the new veterinary clinic at the moment, including two £25 vouchers when you register your pet, as well as a £10 voucher per referral.

And, Tudor House provided pet owners with free consultations - and refreshments - at their fabulous launch day event, which was held on 20th October.

John is the clinic’s senior vet who has more than two decades of experience and he leads the team, who are all equally passionate about the animals they treat, at Tudor House.

“It was wonderful to meet so many fantastic people - and their pets, of course - at our launch day. The event was a great success and we want to thank everyone who came along to see us,” says Sue Jauncey.

“We already have an existing bespoke K9 fertility clinic - where we’ve combined our love of bulldogs and brachycephalic

So, to treat your special furry, feathered or scaly friend to the care they deserve, visit Tudor House Veterinary Clinic today.

“We have progressively seen the need for an independent veterinary clinic here in Wolverhampton after watching so many local companies taken over by corporates.” says Sue Jauncey.

Keen to offer pet owners the personal and affordable service they deserve, the 58

wolverhampton west magazine

• Affordable Animal Care • No hidden extras • You pay for just the treatment we provide • No hidden costs • Breeder friendly

Register your pet & receive 2 x £25 vouchers Vouchers to be used separately against your next two veterinary consultation/treatments www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

59

A new look for Poxon’s

Long established familyrun butchers, Poxon’s, has recently undergone an extensive makeover.

The new look store has been completely redesigned to create more space for customers and showcase the company’s impressive selection of fresh meats, homemade pies and ready cooked meals.

As Nigel Poxon, explains: “We’ve made massive changes to our Castlecroft-based store. We’ve had new walls, floors, windows and counters, as well as new lighting and signage outside.”

And that’s not all: “We have also installed new fridges and freezers and have even brought in a coffee machine for our customers, so that they can enjoy a complimentary drink when they pay us a visit.”

There’s a self-service counter and even a microwave in store

too: “For our customers who want to enjoy their pie or sausage roll right away we’ve provided a microwave so that they can warm up the snack themselves, which is ideal for lunch.”

No expense has been spared in designing the perfect space for customers and the best functional area for the highly skilled team to prepare all manner of meat-based specialities.

“All of our meat is of the highest quality and is locally sourced. We have dedicated sausage and pie rooms on the premises, where we make 30 different kinds of sausage - including gluten free varieties - as well as our homemade pies, scotch eggs, lattices, burgers and grillers.”

And customers can get a look at exactly how their favourite products are made when they’re in store.

“There are two large LCD TV screens in our re-designed shop that show how we make our pork pies and pastries.”

Poxon’s ‘Bring Your Own Dishes’ service means that customers can wow their guests with lasagne, cannelloni or meatballs that have been made on-site using Poxon’s meats - and served in their very own dish.

The team are always happy to provide help and advice and offer excellent customer service.

“With Christmas looming we are one of the few butchers that Copas send their orchard reared turkeys to. We also stock Robert Caldecott turkeys from his Lichfield farm.”

“We’re old fashioned in our values when it comes to customer service, yet modern in terms of our facilities. We move with the times when it comes to technology too,” adds Nigel.

So, whether you fancy just a snack or a freshly made feast for that special occasion, pay Poxon’s a visit today.

Adding to their already impressive homemade ranges, Poxon’s have recently introduced something extra special.

“We have long supplied dinner party meats, like guards of honour, crown roasts and wellingtons.“ 60

wolverhampton west magazine

Christmas at

Quality Butchers 96 Windmill Lane, Castlecroft, Wolverhampton WV3 8HG

Specialists in high quality British meat for over 50 years Comprehensive range of pork pies using only the finest ingredients All pies and sausages are made exclusively on the premises.

‘Bring your own dishes’ service We will fill your dishes with delicious meals prepared fresh in our kitchen using Poxon’s quality meats Dishes include: Lasagne / Cannelloni / Meatballs / Quiches We also make sweet pies.

Gluten free and other special orders available upon request.

Tel: 01902 761693

www.poxonsbutchers.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

61

allan bennett: The story so far...

Allan Bennett started his career as a schoolboy helping the local butcher with deliveries by the butcher’s bike.

A long association with the Meat Industry had started. He joined Gills in 1953 and quickly rose through the ranks from shop floor to eventually become Managing Director of the Company.

He had a vision of buying meat from local markets and farms and producing everything that he sold sausages, pies, bacon and black pudding. There however was one main drive within his vision and that was customer service was paramount. He bought Gill’s 4 shops and a hugely successful business followed with his dream being fulfilled.

He joined the Q Guild in 1991 and to date he is the most successful of any of the Q Guild businesses in the Smithfield awards, accumulating over 160 Gold awards and several Diamond awards.

Allan still has the same enthusiasm now as when he started in the trade and, with the staff, concentrates all his efforts on his shop in Station Road, Codsall.

Steven Bennett, Allan Bennett’s son joined the business to learn the trade when he was 17 and has been working alongside his father ever since gaining knowledge and know how along the way.

Allan and son Steve with their award-winning sausages and pork pies.

Come and enjoy the taste of success for yourself.

Allan Bennett Butchers believes that quality and service are essential ingredients for a successful business in the meat industry. “Customer satisfaction is our main priority, with hard work and attention to detail in every cut of meat we do, we always strive to achieve this,” says Allan.

Gourmet Christmas With over 50 years experience of the meat industry, Allan Bennett and his staff strive to create the best quality money can buy. This quality has brought success at the highest level, winning national competitions for his Bacon, Black Pudding, Sausage, plus international success for pies & pastries.

Dupheshen

Our Dupheshen is based on the traditional three bird roast. A duck is boned then stuffed with chicken and pheasant breast, sausage meat, orange and apricots. Once roasted it can be served hot or cold for that special Christmas feast.

Aproximate weight: 3-3.5kg, 7-8lb Servings: 10-12 people for a meal or more served on a buffet.

62

Visit us for help and advice to help make your Christmas a success.

Winner Pork Sausage, Overall Best Product, Stafford County Show 2010

Allan Bennett Ltd 15 Station Road, Codsall, Wolverhampton, WV8 1BX Tel: 01902 842204

wolverhampton west magazine

au t h e n t i c i ta l i a n

gastronomy

in the hear t of Willenhall If you do one thing this

weekend - or any weekend for that matter, make it a trip to Corbelli’s Little Italy Deli.

This Aladdin’s cave offers the finest selection of Italian foods and wines that you just won’t find in any main stream supermarket. Mainly a wholesaler, Corbelli’s opens its doors to the public at weekends; on Saturdays from 10am to 2pm and Sundays 10am to 1.30pm.

Established in 1965 Corbelli’s Little Italy Deli is quite literally a hidden gem.

It initially opened in Wolverhampton in 1965 and moved to its current location in Lower Lichfield Street, Willenhall in 1980. It can be tricky to find but it’s well worth the search.

The delicatessen and winery was started by Giovanni Corbelli and is now run by his sons Giuseppe and

Pietro. They offer a warm welcome and are keen to share their in-depth knowledge of their exquisite produce.

The range at Corbelli’s is vast, from cheeses and meats to antipasti and pasta and not forgetting the wines there are hundreds to choose from!

The re-opening of the winery welcomes the return of home produced Marsala; rich and enticing and the perfect accompaniment for all of those fine cheeses. If beer is more your bag then you won’t be disappointed with the selection, spirits and liqueurs are a plenty and varied.

If you are looking to stock up with some special treats for Christmas then Corbelli’s has to be on your list.

Why not create a truly unique hamper for the perfect gift for a foodie in your life? As well as fresh produce there’s also a fabulous collection of coffees, condiments, tins and jars that will keep well and be the perfect answer to the ‘no more turkey!’ feeling, yet still provide something special.

So if you are looking for the finest Italian foods at wholesale prices and a unique shopping experience, then pay Corbelli’s a visit at 43 Lower Lichfield Street, Willenhall WV13 1QQ you won’t be disappointed.

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QUALITY AT WHOLESALE PRICE 63

R J Hipkiss & Sons Butchers Here at R J HIPKISS & SONS we believe in providing our customers with the very best in locally sourced beef, pork and English Turkey.

All our meat can be traced back to its origin, it is prepared carefully in store for sale and then onto our fresh meat counter.

ERS D R O S A M T IS R H C G N O W TA K IN 64

Open: Monday to Saturday 7.30am to 6.00pm, Sunday 8am to 4pm Tel: 01902 745956 wolverhampton west magazine

Keeping th e things

we love...

lOCAl!

Customers can choose their particular joint or steak and have it cut to their exact specifications for their meal of the day, their weekend roast, for that extra special dinner party, or of course - the most important meal of the year - The Christmas Dinner!

YO u CA N bE Su RE Of TH E bES T AD vIC E AN D SER vIC E! www.rjhipkissandsons.co.uk The www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Swan Centre, Bridgnorth Road, Wolverhampton WV6 8AE (based in the Spar store) 65

‘Jack and the beanstalk’ pantomime

comes to Pattingham…

Following their successful ‘Sleeping Beauty’ pantomime back in November 2015, villagers from Pattingham are busy rehearsing ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’, a traditional pantomime for the family which they will be performing at the end of November in Pattingham’s Village Hall.

the castle at the top of the beanstalk. The chorus includes ghosts, dairymaids, insects, balloonists and villagers.

The pantomime will have adults and several children aged 6 to 16 years from local villages taking part and has all of the usual ingredients. There’s our hero Jack, his mother, a rather large Dame Dottie Trot, Jack’s brother Silly Billy Trot, his girlfriend Jill, King Maurice, Fairy Moonbeam, Grabbit, the loveable Daisy the Cow and the obligatory baddies, Fleshcreep, and of course, Giant Blunderbore who lives in

Performances will be at 7.30pm on the nights of Wednesday 21st November through to Friday 23rd, changing to 2.30pm on Saturday 24th November. Tickets are £10 for adults and £5 for children under the age of 16.

There will be the usual slapstick scene, this being in the village dairy, together with loads of panto jokes and topical humour with audience participation, together with a live band accompanying all the songs…. “Oh no, there won’t!”

To book your tickets, call 01902 701136 or email boxoffice@pattinghamdramagroup.co.uk but hurry as demand is expected to be high.

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We Would like to Wish all our customers a merry christmas and a happy neW year. throughout the festive season We shall be closed from saturday 22nd december 2018 and re-open on saturday 5th January 2019.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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TAKE A BITE

5 up-and-coming foodie destinations We’re all familiar with a Spanish paella or an Indian curry, but what about those emerging cuisines which are bound to get the taste buds tingling?

So, if you’re guilty of organising your holiday around dishes you’re desperate to try – it’s time for you to venture off the eaten track!

JORDAN Gathering inspiration from North Africa, the Mediterranean and Middle East – Jordanian food derives from a mishmash of gastronomies. Aside from Middle Eastern classics like falafel and hummus, there are also several recipes that originated here. Namely mansaf, a hearty meal of rice, lamb and jameed (a fermented yoghurt sauce), and widely regarded as Jordan’s national dish.

RUSSIA Because of its ethnic diversity, Russian cuisine combines cooking practices from across Europe, Asia, the Caucasus and Siberia. Plates you can’t leave the without trying are borscht, a warm beetroot broth served with black bread and roast beef, and pirozhki, small buns stuffed with a variety of fillings such as sautéed cabbage, rice and boiled eggs, mashed potatoes and more.

Incan history. One dish that has shot to fame recently is ceviche, a simple meal of fresh local fish or seafood marinated in lime juice and chilli. Others to look out for are lomo saltado, beef fried with tomatoes and onions, and cuy chatado (or roasted guinea pig) if you’re feeling particularly daring.

VIETNAM Considered one of the healthiest diets in the world, Vietnamese food boasts the perfect balance of fresh herbs, tender meats and subtle spices. There’s a different dish to be tasted in each destination here too. From cao lau in Hoi An and bun cha in Hanoi, to banh mi in Ho Chi Minh City and nem lui in Hue – there’s an adventure waiting on every plate in this particular part of Southeast Asia.

GEORGIA Born out of foodie customs carried along the Silk Road, Georgian cuisine is nothing if not varied. Be sure to indulge in a khachapuri, a warm bread filled with gooey cheese and occasionally topped with an egg. As well as khinkali, Georgian dumplings which originated in the country’s mountainous regions and come filled with minced meat, onions, chilli pepper, cumin and salt.

PERU Based on homegrown ingredients and traditional techniques, Peruvian cookery has its roots in

Ready to book your Intrepid Travel Real Food Adventure?

Please contact Tracy Mason Travel and speak to Tracy, Jackie, Elaine or Kerrie.

Tracy Mason Travel, Stone Cross, Penkridge, Stafford ST19 5AS Tel: 01785 712332 68

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Tracy Mason Travel is 100% financially secure and holidays including flights are ATOLprotected by the Government-backed Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) under our ATOL. For holidays and travel arrangements which do not include travel by air, our financial protection is administered by the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) under our membership L5132.

T: 01785 712332 We specialise in an extensive range of travel from UK breaks, to around the world tailor made holidays to your dream destinations.

We are a privately owned travel agency. Call in to speak about your next holiday, relax with a coffee and take your time deciding your next destination!

Tracy Mason Travel, Stone Cross, Penkridge, Stafford ST19 5AS www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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enjoy the Festive Season at

halfpenny green Wi n e e s t a t e

Halfpenny Green Wine Estate has been producing award-winning wines in South Staffordshire for over 30 years.

The range of 13 wines - including white, red, rosĂŠ, and sparkling wines - are all made by

the Wine Estateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expert wine making team, from grapes grown on the 30 acre site.

The wines are sold in the on-site shop, which is set across three floors, and features a range of local and British produce, including wines, gins, beers, ales, cheeses, chocolates, biscuits, jams, chutneys, preserves, and a whole range of Christmas gifts and bespoke hamper ideas.

For a different retail experience this Christmas, head down to Halfpenny Green Wine Estate.

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English Sparkling Rose made in the traditional (or ‘Champagne’) method - light, fresh zingy fizz. Just off dry, perfect for that very special occasion

English sparkling wine made in the traditional or Champagne method, with elegant refined nutty flavours and a persistent length

ROSE SPARKLING 2016

Delicate youthful fragrances deliver a lightly honeyed flavour balanced with fresh acidity to give a zestful dry wine

BRUT SPARKLING 2016

Aromatic, refined, elegant flavours with long finish

RONDO 2014

An exciting dry blend, combining zingy acidity with complex fruit character leaving refreshing citrus undertones on the tongue

PENNY MERCIA BLACK 2016 2017 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Made from classic varieties, this rich elegant fizz has spent four years ageing in the bottle, delivering nutty, biscuity characteristics in abundance

CLASSIC CUVEE 2011

RED SPARKLING 2016

Grapes left late on the vine create this sweet dessert wine, showing ripe apricot and honey flavours

A full bodied, full fruit, well structured red wine with a natural alcohol of 15%

TOM HILL 2016

English Sparkling Wine made in the traditional, or “Champagne” method.

Bursting with fruit, lifted by soft bubbles, ending with a seductive smoky finish

Medium bodied with ripe fruits and a long lingering aftertaste

LATE HARVEST 2014

Just off dry, light crisp raisiny nose, smooth luscious citrus flavours with a long clean finish

LONG ACRE 2017

Full-bodied and rounded, luscious fruit leaping from the glass

PENNY RED

BLACK COUNTRY GOLD

Summer berry fruits on the nose, excitingly refreshing balance of light fruit and sweetness with good length

ENGLISH ROSE

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GIVE THEM AN AMAZING GIFT THIS CHRISTMAS GIVE THEM A CITY...

Spend in big brands and independent stores, restaurants, hairdressers, at the theatre, cocktail bars, cafĂŠs, gift shops, florists... and much more!

IN Accepted 0 0 1 over tre city cen es business

Buy yours today at enjoywolverhampton.com ENJOY A enjoywolverhampton.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Win a meal for two

at the Shrewsbury Arms, Albrighton

Fantastic food in a cosy, relaxed atmosphere.

The building, on the edge of the village of Albrighton, in Wolverhampton has stood proud for many years, opposite the beautiful St Mary Magdelene church. A warm and cosy feel greets you the minute you step inside this amazing establishment, and you know you are in for a treat.

With a menu that boasts some of the finest fresh and local produce around and a team that has been handpicked for their experience, enthusiasm and passion for good service and food, this once tired but much loved pub, has quite firmly been put back on the map.

With food served in the bar, the restaurant or the garden, the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere means that you can enjoy your experience, whatever the occasion.

Catering for parties of up to 70 people for Christenings, Funerals, Parties, Baby Showers and more, The Shrewsbury Arms has definitely made its mark on the village.

With a selection of worldly wines, and a menu that makes even the most discerning palate water, The Shrewsbury Arms serves food all day, every day from 12 noon.

For more information or to book a table call 01902 373003 or visit www.theshrewsburyarms.com

The Shrewsbury Arms is giving one lucky reader the chance to win a 2-course meal for two people including a selected bottle of house wine.To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize, simply answer the following question correctly.

What is the website address for the Shrewsbury Arms?

Email your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk or on a postcard to Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY.

All entries to be received by Monday 3rd December 2018.

Competition Terms and Conditions: Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and informed by telephone. To enter you must be aged 18 years or older. No cash or alternative prize will be given. Prize valid from January 6th until 31st January 2019, Sunday to Thursday inclusive and booking date will be subject to availability.

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Marke t ge ts ready for

biggest event of the year…

The annual Penkridge Victorian Christmas Market, which attracts thousands of people from across the region, is being held on Sunday 25th November between 1pm and 7pm at Penkridge Market.

There will be a host of activities to keep the family entertained including Donkey rides, a fun fair, Santa’s Grotto and even a fire-juggler. with free admission and free parking, it looks set to be a great day out for all the family.

With a wide selection of craft stalls, delicious food and drink, as well as plenty of entertainment, it’s no wonder it has become a firm favourite in the festive calendar.

and wooden toys, making it easy to find unique presents for all your friends and family.

The Market will be bursting with local produce selling everything you need for your Festive Feast, from pickles and preserves to Christmas Cakes and mince pies.

There will be a wide variety of refreshments available, including mulled wine and cider, jacket potatoes, pizza and burgers to name but a few. The Old Deanery Farm Cafe will be open serving hot drinks and festive food, including a traditional Turkey Dinner with all the trimmings.

And if you’re struggling to know what to buy someone, why not treat them to a hamper full of delicious foods and local delicacies.

Penkridge Market is located in the centre of Penkridge and is easily accessible from the A449, A5 and M6 (junctions 12 & 13). Parking and admission is free.

In addition to all this fabulous food, there will be Craft Stalls selling everything from handmade jewellery, candles and handbags to decorations

For further information please telephone 01785 714221 or log onto the website w w w. p e n k r i d g e m a r k e t . c o . u k

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Eating Out, Food, Drink and Entertainment

Promote your venue to over 50,000* readers with Wolverhampton West Magazine To find out how your venue can be featured please call Gisella on 01902 744217 76

*over a 2 month period

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Breakfast & Afternoon Tea With Santa

Wedding Open Day

T: 01902 752055 F: 01902 745263 E: salesteam@themount.co.uk W: www.themount.co.uk The Mount Hotel, Mount Road, Wolverhampton, WV68HL TheMountHotelWolverhampton www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

@TheMountHotelWV

mounthoteltettenhall 77

G r e a t Fo o d a t

G r i l l - It

Since opening in October 2017, Grill-It has quickly become a firm favourite with locals in Tettenhall and our restaurant reviewer, Helen Taylor, couldn’t wait to find out why.

I’d been meaning to pay a visit to Grill-It ever since it opened. I’d heard plenty of rave reviews and watched as the premises quickly expanded from a small takeout to a fair-sized restaurant.

It was a Saturday night when I went to the restaurant with Heather - an old friend who moved to Wales 10 years ago but was staying in Wolverhampton for the weekend - we had plenty to talk about and lots to catch up on but, before we even stepped inside conversation was firmly fixed on food.

In fact, Heather had heard all about Grill-It’s delicious menu before 78

she’d even left Haverfordwest, thanks to her friends on facebook who’d been so impressed with the succulent grilled chicken and homemade hummus, they’d just had to share their thoughts online.

So, she knew that there wasn’t a better choice for some great food than at the Tettenhall Road-based eatery.

Unsurprisingly, the restaurant was pretty busy when we arrived at 6.30pm, with plenty of customers calling in to collect take-out orders, as well as those enjoying the relaxed atmosphere in the seating area.

What was perhaps most obvious though was the diverse age-range of diners, who all had one thing in common: a love of great food.

Decorated in a contemporary style, Grill-It’s modern and laidback vibe makes it an easy place in which to dine out, whether you’re dashing in after the gym,

starting a big night out, enjoying a family meal or even a first date.

And, that’s exactly how owner, Costas Xiourouppa, wife Nathalie Zabbal and best friend of 35 years Paul Danks had planned it, as Costas explained when we chatted at the restaurant.

Passionate about flavour-packed food and keen to draw on culinary influences from Cyprus - his home country - as well as traditional food inspired by his wife - Nathalie’s Lebanese heritage, Costas has created a mouth-watering menu wolverhampton west magazine

that’s full of fresh, bold flavours. And the best part is; it’s all healthy too.

So, we grabbed a couple of menus, ordered a drink and sat down to decide on what to try first, which was pretty difficult considering the choice on offer and the value-for-money prices.

There was an impressive selection of pizzas, wraps, burgers and salads, as well as a great selection of vegetarian options too.

And, reassuringly for Heather who has a nut allergy - the staff at Grill-It were able to assure her that all dishes were free from nuts.

We opted for a platter to start: olives, flat-bread coated with a scrumptious garlic dip and the best homemade hummus you’ve ever tasted.

From the starter alone it was clear to see just how much of a difference Costas and Nathalie’s culinary influences have made to the dishes at Grill-It and I was set to enjoy even more authentic flavour when I ordered my main meal.

As a vegetarian and a big fan of halloumi, my choice was obvious: a halloumi wrap served with homemade spicy rice and fries.

Heather was certain that she wanted to try Grill-It’s grilled chicken that she’d heard so much about, so she ordered a Caesar Salad.

Despite the restaurant getting pretty busy, the friendly staff dealt with every order efficiently and within no time we were enjoying the next course.

When halloumi is on the menu it’s always my first choice and I’ve eaten plenty of halloumi when out over the years, but when I tried my wrap

I knew there was something special, so I just had to find out more.

Not content with the cheese available from his suppliers, Costas explained that to ensure the best quality and authentic flavour he’d sourced his halloumi direct from Cyprus.

And his commitment to quality really paid off: the wrap was amazing.

Thinking that things couldn’t get any better I took a mouthful of the spicy rice and was equally blown-away by the mouth-watering flavours.

Heather meanwhile was busy explaining just how perfectly cooked the chicken was: moist, succulent and complete with that unbeatable barbeque flavour.

To be honest, the chicken looked so good that if I wasn’t thoroughly enjoying my choice - and a vegetarian - I’d have been tempted to take a bite.

The portion sizes were generous and everything was presented invitingly.

In fact, there was nothing left when we’d finished eating and looking around at our fellow diners that seemed to be a common trend.

Feeling as though we couldn’t possibly eat another thing, yet not wanting to leave without a sweet treat, we decided to share a dessert. And, there’s no better choice than warm cookie dough and vanilla ice cream.

Proving that they can do sweet just as well as savoury, the dessert provided the perfect end to a perfect meal.

It really is no surprise that the business is going from strengthto-strength and with plans to build a brand new patio area in time for summer next year, there’s no doubt that Grill-It’s loyal customerbase will continue to grow.

But, perhaps the real testament to the restaurant’s delicious grub though, is the fact that despite not seeing each other for nearly two years, our conversation stayed pretty much on food all night long.

As we left I said to Heather that I couldn’t wait to call in again.

Unfortunately for her, she’ll just have to wait until she’s next back in Wolverhampton.

Grill-It, 291 Tettenhall Road, Newbridge, Wolverhampton WV6 0LE For table bookings please call 01902 302303

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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ALL ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE

C

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JOIN US THIS FESTIVE SEASON... ...FOR A FABULOUS EVENING OF ENTERTAINMENT FROM OUR ‘CHRISTMAS LIVE’ EXPERIENCE AT OUR RACING AND NON-RACING PARTY NIGHTS

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An abundant harvest leaves

Halfpenny Green Wi n e e s t a t e

S P E E C H L E S S!

After a bumper harvest this year, there is an air of excitement at Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, situated near Wombourne; with a record crop of grapes this year comes more of their delicious, award-winning wines!

As the festive period draws closer, this is a perfect time to visit the Wine Loft, situated in the Wine Estate’s shop.

Here you will find, proudly presented on one side of the room on beautiful bespoke shelving, their selection of 13 award-winning wines, ranging from whites, rosé, red and fizz, all grown and made on-site. For something a little stronger, on the opposite wall be prepared for a gin-lovers haven! Be blown away by a huge and varied selection of, on the last count, around 90 artisan British gins! If you are stuck for choice, the staff, who are both friendly and knowledgeable, will be happy to let you have a sample. If you would like to know more about the wine and gins stocked or have a friend or relative who would be interested in learning more, why not book a full tasting experience. Sessions are available to book seven days a week (weekdays only during December), subject to availability, for both wine and gins. Starting at just £15.50 per person, they’re a perfect Christmas gift too, with vouchers available to purchase in the shop.

Christmas from 2nd December, the kitchen will be serving a special Christmas lunch menu, featuring a range of homemade classics which are lovingly prepared and cooked fresh upon ordering, served to your table by a team of dedicated waiting staff.

Or, for those feeling a little less festive but wanting a special treat, why not book a Vintage High Tea - a selection of dainty finger sandwiches, cream cakes and scones, all served on vintage fine-bone china, with the extra option of a glass of fizz if you’re feeling particularly decadent! What better way to destress and treat yourself over the Christmas period.

Halfpenny Green Wine Estate is the perfect destination this Christmas for all of your shopping, dining and entertainment needs.

With over fifteen other bespoke and artisan businesses in the on-site craft centre, Wild Zoological Park open over the weekends (during Winter), a whole range of festive gifts available in the shop and food in the restaurant, why head anywhere else this festive season!

If you’re stuck for gift ideas for that person who has everything or just looking for something a little different, a bespoke hamper is the perfect solution. In a range of sizes to suit all budgets and put together in the shop while you wait, you can choose from a range of cheese, chocolates, biscuits, jams, chutneys, wine, beer, gins, sweets and much more, to create the perfect gift.

You cannot visit Halfpenny Green Wine Estate without indulging yourself in the Restaurant. This 82

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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 Cliveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wife Lisa, and offer a great day out for visitors.

AWARD-WINNING ENGLISH WINES

Shop, Deli & Wine Loft

Renowned Restaurant & Tea Room

U P COM I NG E V E N TS GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

BESPOKE HAMPER SERVICE

CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN

For a range of experiences, including wine and gin tastings, tours and high teas.

A range of hampers available, with custom made hampers made while you wait.

Christmas Fayre Menu available 2nd - 24th December.

Tom Lane, Bobbington, South Staffs, DY7 5EP visit our NEW website www.halfpennygreen.co.uk call 01384 22 11 22

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Book Now Boxing Day & New Years Eve (limited availability)

Live Entertainment every Friday & Saturday from 9pm throughout December FOR MORE INFORMATION ON Christmas Fayre menu being OUR CHRISTMAS SELECTION, served from Monday PLEASE ASK US FOR A BROCHURE. 26th November

CALL

01902 373003

TO MAKE A RESERVATION

The Shrewsbury Arms

e:theshrewsburyarms@gmail.com www.theshrewsburyarms.com

BAR & RESTAURANT

High Street, Albrighton, Nr Wolverhampton WV7 3LA

Christmas Fayre Menu 2018 *****

*****

Lunch Menu

Evening Menu

2 course

2 course

3 course

3 course

£14.95

£16.95 *****

How to Book

£19.95

£21.95 *****

Contact us at:

3 Hammers Golf Complex, Old Stafford Road, Coven, Wolverhampton WV10 7PP

T: 01902 791917 E: info@3hammersbistro.co.uk

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Mediterranean grill with a fusion of Lebanese and Greek Cuisine

• Chicken • Freshly made Pizzas • A variety of Salads • Vegetarian Options • Homemade Falafel • Desserts and Milkshakes • Family Platters • Homemade Signature Sauces • Unlimited Soft Drink Refills • Coffee, Teas and Iced Frappe’s

For bookings, please call:

01902 302303 291 Tettenhall Road, Newbridge, Wolverhampton WV6 0LE (Car Parking available)

Buy one Pizza get Second Half Price! *

*T&C’s apply

All food is made fresh to order Fully Licenced Takeaway Service available for collection with on-line ordering facility Small and Large parties catered for

Opening Times:

Mon - Sat 9am - 11pm Sun - 12pm -10pm

www.grillitonline.co.uk Follow us on: www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Introducing the very first

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CIRCUS THEMED CHRISTMAS FROM STILT WALKERS TO FIRE BREATHERS, ANGLE GRINDING FLOOR SHOWS TO ACROBATS, STAGE HYPNOTISTS & LIVE SHOW SINGERS. WITH THE CHRISTMAS BROCHURE NOW OUT AND THE DATES AND SHOWS RELEASED, WE ARE ALREADY SELLING TICKETS TO WHAT WILL BE THE BIGGEST AND BEST CHRISTMAS AT THE PARK HOUSE YET.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO GET A COPY OF OUR BROCHURE AND SHOW DATES CALL NOW ON 01952 460128 OR EMAIL EVENTS@PARKHOUSEHOTEL.NET

7 Anders Square, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7QH

A truly exciting and vibrant eating experience offering exquisite fine cuisine and traditional culinary styles from India and Bangladeshi

SPECIAL OFFER WHEN DINING IN Popadom and chutney tray, Any starter, Any main dish*, Any nan bread or any rice Available Sunday to Thursday £11.95 per person / £7.95 children under 10 *Steak and king prawn dishes £2.50 extra. Game meat not included.

Christmas Day & New Year’s Day bookings* now being taken Special 6 course Traditional English and Indian Menu available Adults £29.95 per person Children under 12 £19.95 Served between 12pm - 4pm, *bookings only taken with a 50% deposit Open 7 days a week 5.30pm – 11.30pm. Free home delivery within 4 mile radius, minimum order of £15.

10% discount on collected take-away orders, minimum order £15. www.flamingoperton.co.uk

To avoid disappointment please book on

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01902 744500 or 01902 745200 wolverhampton west magazine

Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant Established 1989

Air conditioned

Cuisine of Bengal

Fully licensed

Restaurant of the year West Midlands region 2016

 FOOD HYGIENE RATING SCHEME 2011

Express & Star Indian Restaurant of the Year 2017

Celebrate your Christmas Party in Style at the Perfect Venue to Dine!

Christmas Day Menu now available...

Bookings now being taken for 6 course traditional or Bengali style Christmas Day Lunch.

5 course Festive Christmas Menu

Bookings also being taken for our 5 course Festive Christmas Menu.

Available from 1st – 24th December

Ideal for office parties or a pre-Christmas celebration with family and friends.

for groups of 10 people or more

Papadums with relish Choice starter Chicken Tikka Onion Bhajee Samosas Chicken Chat

Rafique Miah welcomes you to the longest established Indian and Bangladeshi Restaurant in Wombourne Village, serving sumptuous Bangladeshi Cuisine for over 29 years.

Choice main course Chicken Tikka Masala Chicken Tikka Jalfrezi Lamb Bhuna Prawn Sagwaller Balti Vegetable Balti Rice or Nan Pilau Rice Fried Rice Mushroom Pilau Rice Plain Nan Peshwari Nan Keema Nan

“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.

01902 324148 01902 324437

Tea or Coffee

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Open 7 days including Bank Holidays - 5.30pm until 11.30pm

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

facebook.com/wombourne.tandoori

www.wombournetandoori.com 87

Christmas isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cancelled 88

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You can gift families with the care and support they need to continue to do Christmas their way. Because life with an incurable illness doesn’t mean the festivities have to stop.

You can Keep Christmas Extraordinary by;

Purchasing your Christmas Cards an array of designs available Playing our Superdraw a chance to win £4,000 Taking part in Quid for Compton have fun at home, work or school collecting or raising as many £1s as you can Donating to Dedicate a Light a way to remember and celebrate the lives of your loved ones

Visit comptoncare.org.uk T: 0300 323 0250 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Registered Charity 512387 89

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97 Darlington Street, Wolverhampton WV1 4HB. Tel: (01902) 423308 / 427199 89 High Street, Harborne, Birmingham B17 9NR. Tel: (0121) 427 1904 www.rudells.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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M4M Anti-Ageing Moisturiser A non-greasy, anti-ageing moisturiser that provides essential nutrients and feeds the skin whilst relieving stress. Improves fine lines and wrinkles.

£64 Sensitive Close Shave Cream Exfoliator and a moisturiser in one. Perfect for use before shaving as the tea tree oil & aloe vera content reduces redness and soothe. This scrub induces sleep & promotes a healthier, firmer and balanced skin.

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£37

The world-renowned anti-ageing moisturiser that plumps out lines, stops scar formation, lightens pigmentation and prevents spot breakouts. Now with Prism Light Defiance TechnologyTM a new patented component that informs your skin to replenish the endangered area with more Elastin & Collagen.

Black Bee Venom Mask A revolutionary organic cream that works to control the facial muscles for tightening, firming and lifting; whilst penetrating fine lines, frown lines and wrinkles and giving that immediate anti-ageing effect.

ABEETOXIN® is the natural alternative to botox and has healing properties making it great for those with blemished skin, rosacea, eczema, dry and mature skin.

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£19

Post Shave Refining Hydrogel

£163

All gifts can be found at: shop.heavenskincare.com

wolverhampton west magazine

Hydrogels “The key to younger-looking skin is water.

These products contain cross-polymer molecules that create a net-like structure on the skins surface, plumping and balancing the skin, as it hydrates.

FROM

£19

Silver Bee Venom Mask: Heaven’s signature product that has gained a worldwide reputation with celebrities and royals. An organic cream that works to control the facial muscles for tightening, firming and lifting; whilst penetrating fifine lines, frown lines and wrinkles and giving that immediate anti-ageing effect.

FROM

Oil Serums

£7

.50

These oil serum’s formulated to work with Heaven’s organic range. Highly active as directly applied to skin. Intense healing, anti-ageing and clearing pigment and blemishes.

£37

SOS Oil Serum: Sensitive recovery.

Clarifying Oil Serum: Blemish control.

Lia Oil Serum: Rose bloom care.

FROM

Dream Oil Serum: Sleep repair.

£7

.50

Divine Cream FROM

A cream as divine as its name, for all skin types but brilliant for those with more mature skin, due to its fantastic antiageing properties. Divine Cream contains organic mandarin and orange, which is a natural source of Vitamin C, meaning collagen and elastin levels in the skin will be increased, whereas pigmentation, acne scarring and blemish marks will decrease.

£19

Build your own Bespoke Heaven Bag The ideal ‘All in the bag’ gift. Both online and in Heaven stockists you can choose your bag and start to fill it with your gifts. FREE added gifts with the more you buy.

Heaven Candles Choose from 3 different perfume notes, Ode, Afternoon Tea & Affection, made from 100% natural essential oils and wax they are the definition of pure opulence. Relax, revive and lift your spirits by creating an at-home haven with these Heavenly gifts. £25.30

Gifts selected by Deborah Mitchell. Owner of Heaven Skincare.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Model hair images styled by The Royston Blythe Team

PartyReady Hair It’s the most wonderful time of the year again and so, it’s time to make looking fabulous your number one priority. There’s no doubt that you’ll have plenty of parties to attend and looking suitably styled is a must: whether you’re sipping mulled wine in the lead-up to Christmas or toasting the start of a brand-new year.

As Nick explains: “Making sure that your hair is fabulous really will make you look and feel fantastic, especially over the party season.”

Whatever your winter look, your hair is an easy way to add that all-important finishing touch that’ll complete your statement style.

Royston Blythe has long been the pre-festive destination for ladies and gents who love to look good and

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this year’s no different.

As the salon gets ever busier over the party season, the team are working hard to create looks that suit every face-shape, hair length, outfit and occasion.

And, there’s no doubt that gorgeous hair will help you to make an impression at every gettogether this December. wolverhampton west magazine

Colour Envy Babylights, beautiful balayage and icy platinum blonde shades are big news at the salon at the moment.

Tailored to suit your individual skintone, Royston Blythe’s expert colourists make creating headturning looks easy. But, this is something that you should never try at home: book in at the salon and leave it to the professionals.

Don’t forget, appointments can be seriously limited at this time of year!

Grooming for Guys Here’s the salon’s festive style guide:

The Perfect Accessory Super-shiny, beautifully coloured and polished-looking hair is the perfect partner for that classic little black dress and any event on your calendar.

For December lunch-dates and cocktail parties, soft, unstructured and tousled waves look great whatever the length of your hair.

Plus, if you can’t make it to the salon, it’s a look you can create yourself at home using a curling wand – just don’t forget the heat protection!

Instant Glamour Going from office to party isn’t easy and you’ll certainly need a quick fix for your hair. It’s a good idea to ask your stylist for some advice when it comes

to finding a go-to party look and, the Royston Blythe team are always ready to give clients a styling tutorial.

It’s best to prep your hair before you leave for work and try out an easy-to-manage look like the half-up sixties-inspired dos that the salons’ stylists are loving at the moment: “A bit of backcombing at the crown, loose waves at the back and a grown-out fringe are the makings of a classic,” adds Nick.

Timeless Sophistication Sometimes it pays to keep things simple and when it comes to hair chic, classic and elegant hairstyles are all you need to provide the finishing touch when you’re slipping on a show-stopping dress. Supersmooth, ultra-healthy, uber-shiny tresses are a must for the look.

The modern man should go for a versatile hairstyle that is easy to style. Make sure you visit a men’s hairdresser or barber who you can offer you an in-depth consultation and educate you on how you to switch your look from sleek and professional to a textured and effortless finish that’s suited to your off-duty lifestyle.

Give the Gift of Beautiful Hair Looking for a gift for someone special? Consider treating them to a beautifully boxed hamper of hair products teamed with gift vouchers to your favourite salon.

Royston Blythe has got an amazing choice of the very finest Kerastase Christmas Gifts and vouchers are available too.

To find your perfect look for any occasion, book in at the salon today.

Royston Blythe 36 Bridgnorth Road, Compton, Wolverhampton WV6 8AE Tel: 01902 751720 email: info@roystonblythe.co.uk www.roystonblythe.co.uk Royston Blythe @RoystonBlythe RoystonBlytheOfficial

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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LUMINAIRE CLINIC Bredon House, 321 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton, WV6 0JZ 96

wolverhampton west magazine

Non-Surgical, Skin Therapy Treatments, that react with your body’s own natural healing response.

HIFU (High Intensity Focused Ultra Sound) Non-Surgical skin tightening & lifting treatment for the face and body.

Prices start from £199.00

C.I.T (Collagen Induction Therapy) Minimally invasive skin rejuvenation treatment , that fights Anti-Ageing, for the face and Body.

Prices start from £100.00 As we age we lose collagen which is the supporting structure of our skin. Once that starts to happen you will need more than just facials and good skin care.

At Luminaire Clinic our treatments are designed to re boost lost collagen and help with keeping your skin lifted, tight and wrinkle free, this is all done by using the body’s own natural healing responses.

“Our advice is don’t wait till you think you need treatments, you will get best results by starting before ageing kicks in”.

Our Therapists are highly trained by the best in the country and our Technology has been chosen to deliver results and are the same as some Harley Street Clinic’s,

at a fraction of the price!

HIFU can tighten those Mummy Tummies!

Lift & Tighten Skin Reduce Wrinkles Reduce Pigmentation Reduce Scarring Reduce Stretch Marks Helps with Acne Scarring FREE CONSULTATION Terms & Conditions Apply. Must be 18 or over for all treatments.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Aristocats

New Autumn/Winter 2018 Collections Arriving Daily

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• Aldo Martins • Basler • Eugen Klein • Faber • Frank Walder • Joseph Ribkoff • Just White • 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 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk 234 Coalway Road, Penn,Wolverhampton WV3 7NN

Tel: 01902 344003

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Choose the Perfect

Winter Coat other types of coat insulation is a choice of down or synthetic fibres. Down is a classic, natural insulator. It is incredibly lightweight though less good for very wet weather. If you plan to walk a lot in all weathers it may not be the right choice. Synthetic insulation holds up better against moisture but won’t retain its insulating properties for as long as down.

Check all zips and cuffs are made from high quality material that will last. Double zips or a zip and Velcro-flap combination create added warmth. Cuffs should be cosy around the wrists so that no drafts can get in.

Once you’ve found a coat you like, examine it to make sure it really is high quality. Make sure all the seams are secure and there are no holes where insulation is escaping.

Available from Aristocats, Merryhill, Wolverhampton

By Tracey Anderson A winter coat is one of life’s bigger clothing investments, so it makes sense to be fully informed and have a plan before hitting the shops (or the internet!).

The first thing to look at is your lifestyle. Imagine someone who travels by car and parks outside their place of work every day, but who likes to go for country walks with their dog at the weekend. Then imagine someone who waits for a bus or a train every day and has a half mile walk at either end of their 100

commute. They will have different demands from their winter coats.

In the UK winters vary from mild to extreme but one thing is certain… it will rain! A waterproof outer shell is a must-have for any winter coat. Look for ‘water resistant’ on the label.

Don’t rule-out a proper wool coat; a somewhat unsung property of wool is its water-resistance. Beware though: many coats which purport to be ‘wool’ are a wool blend with only about 20% wool fibres. These will be less resistant to a downpour; more likely to make you sweat and smell a bit fusty after a while.

Look at how well insulated the coat is. Proper wool coats are naturally warm and feel luxurious. Among

There are many super-stylish winter coats around, but never sacrifice comfort and warmth for style as you will regret it on the coldest wettest days. For example, check that you can wear layers, or a thick jumper under the coat. I’ve found many ‘fashion’ coats have arms which are too skinny to allow for a jumper and thus restrict your movement and / or blood-flow!

Finally think creatively. In our first hypothetical example the person might prefer a light warm wool jacket for commuting by car to work, but a thick full-length downinsulated coat for country walks at the weekend. Or, they might prefer to buy a jacket with a lining that can be removed and worn separately as a jacket in its own right for car journeys, then with the waterproof outer layer at weekends. If your budget is tight try searching through charity shops or factory shops.

There are some amazing bargains to be found from heavy pure wool overcoats to branded hiking wear.

Stay warm this winter. wolverhampton west magazine

FREE BRACELET Worth £119 RRP When you spend £229 or more on Clogau jewellery in-store

38-41 Princess Street, Wolverhampton WV1 1HD | 01902 428486

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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B o o s h T O X ® Looking Great with New Clinic and New Treatments

BooshTOX® is a thriving Doctor-led Aesthetics and Laser Clinic founded by Dr Andrew Booshan | MB ChB DRCOG MRCGP DPDerm.

They have now expanded into excellent new facilities based at Pendeford Business Park near to the Jaguar Land Rover plant in Wolverhampton. With proximity to the M54, this gives easy access to their many clients coming in from all parts of the Midlands and Shropshire.

Some of the most popular services offered are: • Anti-Wrinkle Injectables including Botulinum Toxin • Hyperhidrosis Treatment (Excessive Sweating) • Lip Enhancement Dermal Fillers - painlessly under anaesthetic nerve block • Fine Line and Wrinkle Fillers • Tear Trough (Dark Eye Circles) Treatment • Cheek Lift & Mid-face Volumisation Treatments • Nose Reshaping (Non-surgical rhinoplasty) • Non-Filler Rejuvenation - Skin Boosters, Micro-needling & Mesotherapy • Plasma (Plexr) Non-surgical Blepharoplasty • Vitamin Drips and Booster Shots • Cosmetic Minor Surgery / Benign Lesion Removal • Levura HIFU No-Needle Facelifts and Body Contouring • Laser Hair Removal - Venus Velocity system - treatments by female staff HIFU is a recent addition to their carefully selected treatments. This is High Intensity Focussed Ultrasound which is a highly effective method for stimulating collagen regeneration in the deep tissues of the face and neck. Impressive No-Needle No-Downtime Facelifts, Chinlifts, Eyelifts, Browlifts and Necklifts are possible with this platform and it usually needs to 102

be performed just once a year. As Dr Booshan explains, “The lower face and neck are common concern areas for many of our clients. Our brand new HIFU system allows us to target these areas, tightening up areas of early sagging and perfectly complementing dermal fillers used elsewhere in the face. Our Levura system also has a body contouring feature for targeting localised fat deposits, for example at the abdomen, arms and thighs”.

The clinic has also recently acquired the Venus Velocity Laser Hair Removal machine. This advanced treatment is performed by Serenna who is an experienced laser and beauty therapist.

She explains, “We are the first clinic in the Midlands to have this best-in-class hair removal system from Canada. It is increasingly popular in the United States and London and now we have it right here”.

“It gives our clients safe, fast, comfortable and lasting hair removal on all skin types”.

BooshTOX® staff are fully qualified and insured for your maximum safety and peace of mind.

BooshTOX® Aesthetics & Laser Clinic 7 Sidestrand, Pendeford Business Park, Wolverhampton, WV9 5HD Easy access from Wolverhampton (5 mins) and the M54 - Junction 2

24/7 Direct Online Booking is available via

www.booshtox.com They are also happy to take enquiries and bookings by phone or text at 07555 797 234 wolverhampton west magazine

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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CHRISTMAS SHOPPING IS ALWAYS A CHALLENGE TO FIND THE BEST GIFT AT THE RIGHT PRICE. Here at Heaven, we know how to make everyone feel and look heavenly.

So what better gift to buy than a treatment that makes you feel and look amazing. We have gifts to suit men women and even children.

We love to make you feel special if it’s a spa day we dedicate a special room with champagne and canapés or even lunch.

So here are my ideal gift voucher ideas!

The favourite is a bee sting facial loved by celebrities and royalty, you can relax and drift off to sleep then awake looking years younger, it really is a favourite of our customers the world over. My next very favourite treatment is a bee slim body treatment I always think I want relaxation and I want results this treatment gives much more, it’s very slimming and also contouring the expert therapists work to lift tone and relax muscles but also refine and anti-age the body too. If you really do want to impress with a voucher then a bee sting ritual is a combination of both! Looking to our hands and feet we do super pedicures and always massage with reflex points to drift our customers on to deep relaxation with our heated chairs and massage the body at the same time.

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DPS Heaven Ad Edit xmas 18.indd 1

We always make sure there’s room for friends to sit by each other clients love our heaven gel manicures and it’s always lovely to have a chat with a friend and catch up. Now I did mention men, if your like me I never know what to get my husband they do love a back massage that breaks down knots and redresses the balance of work and relaxation but they feel that it’s such a comforting environment at heaven that they always want to pop back, because we tailormake treatments for men to enjoy and not feel guilty for a grooming treat. As you probably know by now we are a medispa too, what this means is we offer treatments that change and have lasting results. So our heaven five laser offers fast hair reduction and full removal at a great price and the cold setting ensures it’s painless. Who has said to you they would love to reduce hairs somewhere?

Our laser does not just reduce hairs but rejuvenates lines too and helps redness and pigmentation for a one-off voucher, treatment or a course we are here!

Lipolis7 what is this, it’s your key to a beautiful body or facial, uses a cavitation you simply deplete fat cells so you can get into that skirt or show off your six pack (men) or even reduce a double chin- you may not have one but I certainly do and I’ll be having a short course of treatment to remedy this! Have you got a teenager who is constantly trying to get rid of blocked pores, well send her/him to us we can short that out in no time

with our oxy hydra 8. It uses jets of water to deep clean pores and removes lines so you don’t have to be a teen to have it either. There is so much more on offer at heaven organic and medispa from semipermanent eyebrows to a bee peel anti ageing treatment.

So what present do you want for Christmas, I’ve put my order into Santa, have you?

Heaven Salon: T: 01952 461888 or email salon@heavenskincare.com 13a Market Place | Shifnal | TF11 9AU. www.heavenskincare.com

wolverhampton west magazine

15/10/2018 08:53

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

DPS Heaven Ad Edit xmas 18.indd 2

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12/10/2018 15:03

Turn up the glamour Christmas Party Looks

Embellished Maxi Dress £69 M&Co

By Helen Taylor It’s time to party! So, forget the usual boring buys, step out of your style comfort zone and try out a brand new look this festive season.

Christmas is all about glitz and glamour so opt for a dazzling dress and a pair of sky-high heels and enjoy being the belleof-the-ball at every party this year.

Whether you make a statement with sequins, opt for a classic little black dress or choose a bold hue, there’s no doubt you’ll look - and feel - amazing at every special event this December with any one of our choices of gorgeous party looks...

Sequin Velvet Wrap Dress £69 M&Co

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Velvet Flower Embroidered Dress £99 M&Co

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Sequin Dress £78 Little Mistress

Ombre Sequin Dress £55 Dorothy Perkins

Maxi Dress £75 Little Mistress

Satin Maxi Dress £75 Little Mistress

Pencil Dress £55 Little Mistress

Sequin Dress £78 Little Mistress

‘Bridgette’ High Heels £170 Dune

Green Sequin Dress £38 Dorothy Perkins www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Lace Dress £99 Per Una

Clutch Bag see in store or online for prices.

Dune 107

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Olivia’s Beauty

Celebrating six years in business Warstones-based beauty salon, Olivia’s, has just celebrated its sixth birthday and owner Fiona Beech couldn’t be happier, as she explains: “The business has gone from strength-to-strength over the last six years and I’m really fortunate to have established a loyal and ever-expanding client base and I’m lucky to have a fabulous team of staff working for me.”

Named after her daughter, Olivia, the salon first opened in June 2012 and offered clients everything from essential beauty services to indulgent treatments.

“We’ve always offered all of the beauty basics, like manicures and pedicures alongside specialist services such as IPL and microdermabrasion and we’ve recently introduced Deborah Mitchell’s high-end and luxurious Heaven brand.”

Highly regarded by beauty experts and a favourite with celebrities across the globe, Heaven’s products offer fantastic results and Fiona’s clients have been amazed by their skin’s transformation following their treatments.

“Heaven’s incredible Bee sting facial is the perfect alternative to Botox and offers instant anti-ageing effects and the Lipolis7 is a unique piece of equipment that provides amazing results for both face and body.”

Eliminating the need for invasive surgeries and Botox, the Lipolis7

BEFORE

AFTER

Owner Fiona Beech (centre) with the team

machine works on lines and deep wrinkles and improves firmness.

“The Lipolis7 isn’t just great for the face, it can help you to get the body that you want too as its unique system collapses fat cells, stimulates the lymphatic system and melts fat away, resulting in impressive inch loss.”

And a course of five treatments are recommended for maximum results: “For the face, clients should opt for one treatment a month and for the body one treatment a week.”

Regulars at the salon will already know about Olivia’s fabulous Winter Warmer deals and this time there’s the option to upgrade to Heaven.

“We’re currently running our Winter Warmer offers where clients can book in for a relaxing 90 minute treat, which includes a 45 minute facial as well as a 30 minute back, neck and shoulder massage for the special price of £44.”

The salon also specialises in microblading, an increasingly popular treatment that offers a painless way to restore overplucked eyebrows and the treatment costs just £79.

Whatever you choose, you can rest assured that the highlytrained team at Olivia’s will provide the best results.

“Each member of the team has their own special area of expertise and are highly trained in everything from gel nails and waxing to massage.”

Olivia leads the team and she’s joined by Francesca Morgan, Kelly Bennet, Alisha Hickman and Rebecca Ginty.

So, why not treat yourself to some much-needed ‘me-time’ this season at Olivia’s? And, if you’re feeling generous why not treat a friend too? Gift vouchers are on sale now.

Every client’s skin requirements are catered for and the standard Winter Warmer option uses gorgeous aromatherapy products from Eve Taylor, although clients can opt for something a little more luxurious by choosing to upgrade to Heaven for an extra £15.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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PLATINUM PROVIDER

Book your FREE Invisalign digital scan with us today.

Seeing really is believing.

Get a digital scan to see how your teeth could look after straightening with Invisalign aligners.

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What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a system of clear aligners which move your teeth gradually with each set.

Invisalign takes less time than brackets and is removable, comfortable and clear.

Why choose Smile Works?

We are a platinum provider for Invisalign with 14 years experience.

We can provide teeth straightening for both simple and complex cases.

Experience matters.

Let us show you how you would look with straightened teeth...

We will scan your teeth and will be able to show you a before and after image within five minutes. A digital scan is an impression material free way of taking a record of your teeth.

We will discuss how your teeth will move and answer any questions you might have. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

PLATINUM PROVIDER

Halfway House, Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton plus three practices in Telford Straightening: Invisalign (Platinum Provider) and Metal or White Brackets Implants: Single teeth to full arch and bridges Whitening: Zoom in Chair and Home Whitening Private general and cosmetic dentistry: Exam / Check ups Hygiene Visits with Air Flow Facial Aesthetics: Wrinkle Correction and Fillers HydraFacial: Skin Health For Life, Acne and Black Heads, Derma Builder

Book your FREE, no obligation Invisalign scan today: 01902 713 700 thesmileworks.com info@thesmileworks.com

Halfway House, 151 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton WV3 9NJ

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The Harley Street Experience at

Cosmetique

Clients at Wolverhampton based Aesthetic Clinic, Cosmetique, already know about all the amazing treatments that are on offer, that’s why they trust the expert team to address every one of their beauty concerns.

For those who don’t know though, the clinic provides anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, as well as a range of other targeted procedures that turn-the-clock-back on ageing skin in a professional setting.

As a GP-led private clinic - not a beauty salon - every one of Cosmetique’s treatments is carried out by a qualified practitioner. They have a new highly qualified doctor who practices and trains other doctors at Harley Street and treats celebrities. Clients can rest assured that they’re in safe and capable hands every time they visit.

Of course, treatments aren’t just for the face, there’s a full range of expert body treatments too. Laser hair removal, 3D Lipo, skin tightening, stretch mark and cellulite removal are amongst other treatments carried out by the experts.

Every procedure at the clinic is carefully researched, backed by medical evidence and carried out by professionals using the latest technology - that’s why they work.

In fact, Cosmetique’s Format K Magma Diode laser is the latest on the market and it treats every skin type, from 1-6, as owner Suky Chana explains: “The laser works by matching the individual need of every client by measuring the amount of melanin in their skin.”

And, the laser eliminates the need for waxing, threading and shaving, and is a great way to become completely hair free.

There’s no better time to book an appointment at the clinic as Cosmetique is offering a course of eight Format K Magma Diode Laser hair removal treatments for only £140 throughout November and December.

So, forget waxing and shaving forever, with a special offer now on and a further 10% discount for all of their loyal clients, there has never been a better time to book an appointment at the clinic.

Throughout November and December 2018 Cosmetique are offering a course of eight Format K Magma Diode

Laser Hair Removal treatments for only £140.

570 Penn Road, Penn, Wolverhampton WV4 4HU

Clinically led with all procedures carried out by qualified staff New! Dermaplaning from £49, as used by celebrities.

A method of exfoliation, the top layer of skin is taken off along with any peachy fuzz (fine hair) on the face in order to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion.

Personalised Packages available to suit client’s needs, ie, Package with LED Opera Mask or Package with Chemical Peel

*Offer prices available throughout November and December 2018 (*personalised packages - prices vary between treatments)

• • • • • •

Laser Hair Removal IPL Pigmentation Scars, Blemishes Stretch Marks Collagen Enhancement Vitamin Infusion

(vitamin boost injections)

• • • • • •

Skin Rejuvination Anti-wrinkle Injections Anti-wrinkle Facials Dermal Fillers, Tear Trough Dermapen (needling) Cryotherapy (removal of warts, skin tags and age spots)

New 3D Lipomed Treatments now available, please call for further details

To book an appointment or further details please call 01902 334181 cosmetiqueaesthetic@gmail.com www.cosmetiqueaesthetics.co.uk 112

wolverhampton west magazine

Is my vision good enough for driving?

Studies suggest that up to one in five middle aged drivers are taking to the road knowing their eyesight is not as good as it should be.

It is just common sense to ensure that your eyesight is good enough to enable you to drive safely. If it isn’t, you could potentially be breaking the law which may result in the loss of your driving licence.

The DVLA will allow you to drive up to any age, provided that you still have good enough reaction times and clear eyesight. Even those with glaucoma or cataracts won’t necessarily have a problem if the two eyes together give good enough clarity and a wide field of vision.

To meet the most basic DVLA standard for driving, you must be able to read a modern number plate from 20 metres. However, regular eye tests are crucial to ensure that the full standard is being met.

Even a small prescription with a good quality antireflective coating or specific glare reducing lenses, such as EnRoute, can make night driving much more comfortable. Designed specifically for motorists these lenses, either single vision or varifocal, have specifically developed glare filters and optional contrast enhancing filters to significantly reduce glare from oncoming traffic and enhance contrast in low light conditions, like rain and fog.

Polarised sunglasses, such as Maui Jim or Ray Ban are fabulous as they instantly eliminate the glare of the sunlight reflected off the road, giving you better visibility.

At Taylor Biddle, you will find a huge selection of stylish eyewear and lenses to suit all budgets and our dispensing team will spend however long it takes and provide valuable advice to help you to make the right choice.

For older drivers, it is vital to ensure that your glasses or contact lenses are up to date and it’s a good idea to have a spare pair of glasses in your vehicle too. In France and other countries, for example, a driver must have a spare pair in the car by law!

Night driving is certainly more demanding than driving during the day, particularly for older drivers who are still legal to drive without glasses, but struggle with glare at night.

• Your Local Family Opticians • Full eye examinations • Contact Lens Checks • The latest eye scanning • OCT technology • Visual Stress/Visual Dyslexia • Colorimetry Assessments • Dry Eye Clinic

£150 towards a second pair of multifocal lenses with every purchase of premium varifocals, offer ends Friday 30th November (T&C’s apply)

www.taylorbiddleopticians.co.uk 39 Bridgnorth Road, Compton 01902 750 325 34 Windmill Bank, Wombourne 01902 895 909 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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T O P BA C K C ARE T I P S

Spine Specialists Whilst many people suffer with a bad back, many more adults are unaware of the causes, symptoms and the effects that back pain can have. Based at the Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital, Mr Amit Bhalla is one of six consultant spinal surgeons providing comprehensive private assessment and treatment for a range of spinal conditions affecting the neck and back, avoiding surgery wherever possible.

Also available for consultation at the private hospital in Tettenhall are consultant orthopaedic spinal surgeons Mr Panteleimon Papanikolau, Mr Gabriel Alo, Mr Mushtaque Ishaque, Mr Anthony Marino and Mr Khalid Saeed. In addition to a multi-disciplinary team of six consultant spinal orthopaedic surgeons, radiologists, spinal physiotherapy and specialist nursing, the Nuffield Health Recovery Plus programme uniquely provides extended post-operative physiotherapy support. The two local Nuffield Health Fitness & Wellbeing Centres in Wolverhampton and Cannock ensure a smooth recovery and promote long-term health.

Consultant spinal surgeon Mr Amit Bhalla, whose practice includes management of degenerative spinal conditions such as slipped discs, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis, as well as spinal deformity, fractures, tumours, and infection, explains, “Evidence suggests that prevalence and rates of severe and chronic

low back pain are increasing, particularly after 40 years of age.

The key to keeping your back healthy is about protecting your spine by knowing how to lift correctly, how to sit and stand properly, and doing core-strengthening exercises. The following tips are adapted from the NHS Live Well website, where you can find out more.”

Mr Amit Bhalla, consultant spinal surgeon at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital

Top tips for a healthy back: • Maintain good posture - avoid slumping in your chair or hunching over a desk or when walking.

Make sure your bed has the correct support and comfort for your weight and build • Take a break from sitting - move away from your desk or arm chair every 30 minutes • Exercise your back regularly - walking, swimming and cycling are all good ways to strengthen your back muscles • Always bend at your knees and hips, not your back • Lift heavy objects correctly and carry larger loads in a comfortable rucksack using both shoulder straps to even out the load, avoiding sling bags • Lose excess weight and stop smoking to prevent your discs from degenerating

MRI image showing degenerative changes and stenosis in the lumbar spine

• Use relaxation techniques to combat stress which is a major cause of back pain Mr Bhalla adds, “Our patients can be seen quickly for back and leg pain or neck and arm pain, which may all be caused by problems with the spine.

After consultation, there is usually an MRI scan and then a discussion of the findings. Treatment for the vast majority is non-surgical treatment such as pain management, injection therapy or specialist physiotherapy and preventative advice. Where patients fail to improve with non-surgical treatment and their symptoms interfere with their work or leisure activities, they may require surgery. Wherever possible we select less invasive, microsurgical techniques to aid recovery and improve clinical outcomes.“ To find out more or to book for one of our free events: www.nuffieldhealth.com/ hospitals/wolverhampton/ events or ring 01902 793269.

Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine

New year, NEW START As the end of the year looms into view, no doubt many people start thinking about New Year resolutions, and aims and ambitions for 2019.

Well why not take a look at some of the fitness and training sessions available at Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis & Squash Club, to help get into shape and improve your health for new challenges ahead?

A membership at WLTSC opens the door to all of the club’s facilities including tennis, squash, racketball and the gym and new strength and conditioning area known as ‘The Pit’.

But a large number of the gym classes are also available for non-members who are always made to feel extremely welcome.

A Detox programme is booked in for January, making for that extra-healthy start to the New Year, along with all the other regular fitness sessions put on by the enthusiastic and experienced team of Personal Trainers.

These include functional training, core, boxercise, metafit and circuits, as well as yoga, pilates and zumba.

The gym itself caters for all types of members, whether just looking for a short workout in an airconditioned, friendly environment every week or something more strenuous using all the latest technology and range of equipment and weights.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

The System Energize team are ready! Brendon Turner, Adam Guest, Paul Fothergill, Billy Hughes.

“We’ve had another great year at WLTSC across all of our sporting programmes, and are looking forward to the same again for 2019,” says Operations Manager Marc Hughes.

“We know that the New Year is always a time for people to think about taking steps to improve their health and their fitness, and a lot of our sessions are open to nonmembers if they want to come and give them a try.

“Visitors are assured of a warm and friendly welcome, as well as plenty of encouragement and shared determination from everyone taking part in the sessions.”

For details of what is available, visit www.wltsc.com or for more information call (01902) 755265 or email club@wltsc.com

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5 things you should know about variCose veins 1. Don’t worry, you can keep crossing your legs

4. Exercise promotes long-term vein health

The common claim that crossing your legs causes varicose or spider veins is untrue. Instead, the primary factors are genetics, age, weight, gender, pregnancy, history of blood clots, and standing or sitting for extended periods of time.

Physical activities such as walking, swimming, and stair-climbing improve circulation. When your blood flows without restriction, your veins are less likely to experience the pressure that causes varicose veins.

2. Varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic issue While varicose veins might look unpleasant, they can also present serious health risks. Many varicose veins cause symptoms such as aching and itching, swelling and restless legs at night and the sensation of throbbing over the vein, but untreated veins can lead to brown areas of damaged skin, eczema, ulcers, bleeding and blood clots.

The Vein Clinic at the Wolverhampton Nuffield Hospital, led by Mr Simon Hobbs, Consultant Vascular Surgeon, treats the vast majority of varicose veins as walkin, walk-out procedures, under local anaesthetic, with greatly enhanced recovery compared to traditional surgical treatments.

During a consultation, an ultra sound scan will be performed to detect the source of the problem and from the size and position, indicate the best treatment for you.

5. Professional treatment is the only certain solution Compression stockings can minimise the effects of varicose veins, but the only way to completely rid yourself of them is through treatment from an experienced vein clinician. The good news is that even the most advanced treatments are minimally invasive and covered by most insurance companies.

Recognised by all major medical insurers we also accept selfreferrals for self-paying patients.

For further information or to schedule a Consultation visit

www.simonhobbsveins.co.uk

3. Men get varicose veins too About 80% of varicose vein patients are women, but 42% of men will develop varicose veins by the time they reach their 60s - many of these men suffer in silence.

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wolverhampton west magazine

Keep your feet happy this Christmas It’s all so easy to forget about your feet as the winter months approach, hidden away in socks and boots until the flip flop season rolls around again.

Not only that but your feet bear the brunt of all that Christmas shopping.

We want to keep our feet healthy and happy for the cold season ahead and here are some tips on how:

walking around with cold toes.

Ensure that before you dress your feet with your socks or put them into shoes that are lined with materials such as lamb’s wool, make sure that your feet are warm beforehand. This is because the socks and the lamb’s wool acts as an insulator, so if your feet are cold, it will only insulate the cold when you put them in your shoes.

• We want to keep our feet warm, but this can cause our feet to sweat. Damp, sweaty feet can

• Many people suffer from cold feet in the winter and nothing is worse than spending the day

chill more easily and are more prone to bacterial infections. To keep feet clean and dry, consider using foot powder inside socks, applying anti-perspirant and soaking your feet in warm soapy water when you get home • Choose footwear that will keep your feet warm, dry and well supported. We all like to have fashionable footwear but ensure they are practical and waterproof to get you through the autumn and winter.

“We would like to thank all our customers for their continued support throughout the year. Wishing you a happy Christmas and New Year from the team at Foot Therapy.”

Friendly Personal Service • Steri Pedicure • Custom Orthotics • Gift Vouchers Home Visits Available

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thE BENEFits

of Professional Therapies It’s no secret that the NHS is under continual intense pressure and many residents across Wolverhampton and the wider region will have had difficulty getting an appointment with their GP, faced extensive referral times, or been told the service they need isn’t funded.

With headlines screaming out about the ‘NHS crisis’ and reports of four week waits for routine primary care appointments1, it’s no wonder that many of us are turning to alternative treatments in a bid to achieve enhanced health and happiness.

The good news is that there are a huge number of alternative or professional therapy services available that treat a variety of illnesses and health problems, offering a wide range of benefits that can bring extremely valuable results. Here, Kevin Rogers - CEO of city centre-based health cash plan provider, Paycare - looks at some of the most popular therapies you may wish to consider:

Acupuncture:

back pain, strains, joint, and dental pain to help maintain good health.

Chiropody:

Reflexology:

Chiropodists are often called podiatrists and treat a variety of conditions of the foot and lower limb, such as verrucas, bunions, ingrown toenails, and arthritis. They are trained to prevent, diagnose and rehabilitate abnormal conditions of the feet and lower limbs as well as prevent and correct any deformities, keeping people mobile and active.

Osteopathy: Around 30,000 people consult an osteopath every working day and around 80 per cent of those will be funding their own treatment3, as it’s not widely available on the NHS. The practice involves stretching and massaging to relieve muscle tension and improve joint mobility, and is based on the principle that your overall wellbeing depends on your skeleton, muscles, ligaments, and tissues working well together.

Physiotherapy:

Most people will have heard of acupuncture - according to the British Council of Acupuncture they have 3,000 acupuncturists registered with them and there are 2.3 million appointments each year2. Originating from China, the practice has been adapted in the Western world and involves using tiny needles in specific locations in the body to relieve aches and pains, reduce the symptoms of various conditions from IBS to migraines or just to help people feeling ‘out of balance’. Acupuncture can also be used to support musculoskeletal conditions including 120

for back problems, but can also make a big difference following a stroke or heart attack and for people living with conditions like COPD or multiple sclerosis.

Reflexology is a complementary medicine, so called because it’s used in conjunction with more conventional treatment such as that offered by the NHS. The idea of reflexology is to apply pressure on different points on your feet, lower legs, hands, face and ears which correspond to other parts of the body. As well as alleviating symptoms, some people report an improvement in their mood, sleep or wellbeing following therapy.

The great news is… health cash plans such as those offered by Paycare enable you to get cashback on approved professional therapies (which includes the above plus others including chiropractic services and hypnotherapy) up to the value of your annual allowance. Not only does this help to alleviate pressure on GPs and the huge waiting times we are seeing within the NHS for services which they do provide funding for, it also gives you access to extra services not funded and means minimal or no waiting times.

Visit www.paycare.org for more information about professional services and cash plans.

Echoing what we see with many other professional services, long waiting times on the NHS are driving more patients to go private for a physio - which can rack up a big bill depending on the extent of the issue. Physiotherapy isn’t just

REFERENCES 1. kingsfund.org.uk 2. acupuncture.org.uk 3. osteopathy.org.uk

wolverhampton west magazine

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DIY divorces

risk pensions headaches in the future

Married couples opting for DIY divorces risk ending up without any retirement income as they lose control of their finances, says Kate Rowley, a solicitor with FBC Manby Bowdler’s family team.

There has been a big rise in the number of people choosing to arrange their own divorce without involvement from a solicitor.

Whilst this might be financially attractive in the short term, there is now a growing body of evidence which suggests the immediate savings are also storing up longterm - and costly - financial penalties, particularly with regards to pensions.

Divorcing couples can choose a number of ways to divide their pension assets, including

“pension attachment orders” and “pension sharing orders”.

Under a pension attachment order, the divorced spouse will receive a percentage of the monthly pension payment from their former spouse - a form of maintenance which prevents a clean financial break and can lead to considerable disadvantages to both the person with the pension and the person receiving a share.

A pension sharing order, however, divides the pension funds available at the time of separation leaving both parties with their own retirement funds, over which they have full and independent control.

Latest figures show a 45 per cent rise in attachment orders between 2015 and 2017, from 2,993 to 4,223, corresponding with the increase in the number of people seeking to divorce without legal help.

Whilst attachment orders are more straightforward to organise, they come with a host of hidden drawbacks which can lead to financial headaches in the future.

Kate Rowley

122

For example, if a spouse remarries they are no longer entitled to the payments. And even if they remain single, they have to wait for their former spouse to retire until they can claim any pension income, with no recourse to the courts available.

Added to that, the entitlement to any pension settlement ceases whenever the former spouse dies, making financial security in retirement impossible to plan accurately.

Despite being more complex to arrange - and requiring expert legal help - the pension sharing order offers divorcing couples real security, peace of mind and control over their financial wellbeing.

A pension sharing order means each party to a divorce is left in full control of their own finances, meaning they can each plan for their future in complete confidence without being at the mercy of their ex’s plans or health.

Pensions are often complicated and nuanced - and something many of us struggle to understand even at the best of times. There is a big difference between private pensions and public sector pension schemes for example. When we have so many other things on our minds - as divorcing couples do - it is vital to call on expert advice to make sure any decisions we make now are not just storing up trouble for the future.

If you would like any help or advice on family and divorce matters, Kate can be contacted on k.rowley@ fbcmb.co.uk or 01952 211323. wolverhampton west magazine

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WOLVERHAMPTON HIP

& KNEE CLINIC

The Wolverhampton hip and knee clinic has been developed to provide modern, comprehensive and evidence based treatment for all hip and knee disorders.

Mr David Simpson is an established and experienced Consultant orthopaedic surgeon. He is the leading regional exponent of custom made, personalised ‘Signature’ knee replacements.

MR DAVID SIMPSON CONSULTANT ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON

Areas of expertise: - Hip and knee arthritis - Hip and knee replacements - Custom made patient specific ‘Signature’ knee replacements - Sports Injuries - Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery - Cartilage surgery - Tibial osteotomy / realignment surgery

To book an appointment or for further details please contact: The Wolverhampton Hip and Knee Clinic, Nuffield Health Hospital, Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 8LE Tel: 01902 793269 / 01902 793241 email: info@wolverhamptonhipandkneeclinic.co.uk or visit: www.wolverhamptonhipandkneeclinic.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Wolverhampton is due to have a

major new nursery

in February 2019

wealth of choice between activities so that children can learn to problem solve, explore, experiment, dig, paint and collaborate ideas.

The location of the new Nursery will offer large outdoor spaces to enrich the children’s learning and development, as the best classroom and richest cupboard is roofed only by the sky.

From left: Dal and Harcharan Basra of Sandhills with Manoj Patel from Barclays

Sandhills Day Nurseries, which is owned by Mr and Mrs Basra, has purchased a 3 acre site in Lower Penn, Wolverhampton and will be building a custom designed nursery which will offer an education facility for children from birth to 5 years and holiday club facilities for children up to age 11, meaning it could be one of the UK’s finest nurseries.

Sandhills, Wolverhampton aims to offer an outstanding and welcoming “home from home” environment using the innovative Reggio Emilia approach to education, which will allow the children to use their own natural 124

curiosity and energy to help guide their own development.

Some of the facilities on offer will include playdough stations, natural open-ended resources, children’s cooking facilities, ICT facilities and a reflections room, amongst many others. A library will be incorporated to help enhance the children’s vocabulary, to help them understand how to read and write, but also to allow children to develop their understanding of different topics about the wider world and everyday life.

Sandhills believes the outdoor environment should be an extension of the inside offering a

Sandhills, which was established in 2005, currently has six other nurseries across the West Midlands including Alvechurch, and Barnt Green in Worcestershire, Boston in Lincolnshire, Codsall, Wombourne and Heath Mill in South Staffordshire - all of which are rated Good or Outstanding by OFSTED. As parents, you will be assured that when you leave your child for the day, you have complete peace of mind knowing that they will be safe with warm, caring staff, who will treat them as an individual. Sandhills will guarantee that your child will have a fresh, nutritious meal cooked on site.

When you return at the end of the day, you will be greeted by polite, friendly staff, who cannot wait to tell you about the exciting day your child has had at nursery.

We have Early Years Practitioners vacancies at several of our sites including the new branch in Wolverhampton, therefore should you have a relevant childcare Level 3 qualification and would like to work at Sandhills please email your CV to sandhillswolverhamptonjobs@gmail.com Should you wish to reserve a place for your child and receive a pre booking discount on your fees then please visit our website www.sandhillsdaynursery.co.uk or telephone 01902 844450 for further information. wolverhampton west magazine

Giving your child the best start in life.

New Nursery opening in

Wolverhampton February 2019 We have other sites at Wombourne: 01902 326500 and

Discounted fee rate for bookings made before 31st March 2019.

Telephone for further details: 01902 844450

Heath Mill: 01902 896317

Sandhills Day Nurseries are Rated Outstanding with Ofsted

www.sandhillsdaynursery.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

shcodsall@btconnect.com

125

Every student is individual,

so why risk a standard approach to Sixth Form?

Students spend 11 years working towards GCSEs, but in just 20 months at A Level they are confronted with a host of life changing decisions - subject choice, work experience, Oxbridge or Russell Group, vocational degrees, international university courses, apprenticeships or perhaps a gap year? That first term in the Sixth Form is awash with university open days and the demands of personal statement deadlines and this is where the specialist careers, UCAS and university support team at Wolverhampton Grammar School can help.

school and Sixth Form college in the country, but students also need to demonstrate a wider set of skills beyond the classroom.

With unprecedented changes in traditional jobs, emerging new industries and the creation of a more varied global work landscape, the opportunities given to students and the choices they make are more important than ever before. Academic success is paramount, as it is in every

Wolverhampton Grammar School works to ensure that Sixth Form students receive the individual care and attention that they need to leave as independent, self-motivated learners, with the skills valued by leading universities and employers and wider society alike. Right from day one expert

mentoring and coaching ensures that students stand out from the crowd whatever their next step might be. This, together with an extensive range of A level subject choices, the largest range of extra and co-curricular activities, sports, clubs and societies and skill based provision of any independent school in the area ensures Wolverhampton Grammar School students have the best start possible.

To hear more about life as a Sixth Former at Wolverhampton Grammar School join us for our Open Evening on Thursday 22nd November 2018 from 6.30pm - 8pm, visit the website www.wgs.org.uk or speak with our Admissions Registrar, Jane Morris or email jam@wgs-sch. net for further information.

126

wolverhampton west magazine

Independent Day School for Boys and Girls Junior School ages 7-11 Senior School ages 11-16 Sixth Form ages 16-18

“

Both our children have had an amazing educational journey at Wolverhampton Grammar School.

They have developed into confident, self assured people, well prepared to make their way in the world

“

Parents’ Survey 2018

OPEN DAYS & EVENINGS Year 3 Open Day: Saturday 17th November, 10am - 1.30pm Sixth Form Open Evening: Thursday 22nd November, 6.30pm - 8pm Junior School Open Day: Saturday 26th January, 10am - 1.30pm

YEAR 7 ENTRANCE TEST Saturday 12th January 2019 For information about how to register for our entrance test or to learn more about our open events please contact Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar telephone 01902 422939, email jam@wgs-sch.net or register online www.wgs.org.uk JUDGED “EXCELLENT” IN ALL AREAS BY

THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS INSPECTORATE

TES INDEPENDENT SCHOOL AWARD WINNERS 2018

01902 421326

www.wgs.org.uk Wolverhampton Grammar School Compton Road Wolverhampton WV3 9RB

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127

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wolverhampton west magazine

There are two gifts that we should give to our children,

one is roots and the other is wings

I look back on my childhood days and remember with great affection the freedom we were afforded in terms of what is now termed in education ‘Risky Play.’

My evenings and weekends were full of climbing trees, cooking food on a fire at the bottom of a garden and playing in the brook at Dam Mill.

The only rules were be back before it is dark and don’t talk to strangers.

Interestingly, I never suffered a broken limb, a severe burn or fell into the water. There were times I headed home, because I was tired, hungry, cold or my wellies were full of water because I’d waded in the brook too deeply; yet apart from that

play outside was endless. Similarly, my infant school playground was full of the most amazing objects which we could use to create dens or role play with - we had old cars, real bricks, planks of wood, crates, logs and anything that anyone was getting rid of - the playground really did resemble a junk yard. Yet, those of my contemporaries who went to school in the days of Mrs Thompson at Birches Avenue School in Codsall will remember those playtimes and lunch times with great fondness - along with memories of the odd splinter or two. As an educationalist now, I realise how ahead of her time Lil Thompson was and the gift of ‘childhood’ she gave us.

One of my aims at Newbridge Preparatory School is to put that type of childhood back in to today’s version of childhood.

Why? Because such outdoor play promotes cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being. Through a play activity as simple as climbing a tree, a child can experiment, solve problems, think creatively, and co-operate with others. The chance to experience opportunities for unstructured play, in which a child can decide what to do, with whom and how, promotes positive selfesteem, autonomy, and confidence.

In this day and age of Risk Assessments and Safeguarding, it is slightly more difficult to produce such opportunities, but having taken our Year Three and Four girls to Kingswood Trust

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

for a three day residential - we certainly had a good try!

The girls climbed trees, foraged for food and cooked on an open fire.

They used technology to view the clear night sky and were amazed to realise that they could actually see Mars. However, the most magical of moments was ‘bubble blowing by torchlight’ (Head torches) - the awe and wonder as the girls watched the spectrum of colours dance in the darkness will hopefully be a precious childhood memory to take with them into adulthood.

At Newbridge Preparatory School we offer high levels of academic challenge and prepare girls for the 11 plus but more importantly we give them ‘roots’ and ‘wings.’

Sarah Fisher, Headmistress

129

Brewood

Christmas Light Switch On This year, Brewood’s Christmas Light switch on will take place on Sunday 25th November. It is set to be a spectacular event as the streets around the main square will be closed off in anticipation of the stage and stalls.

There will be some festive performances as five local schools, including St. Dominic’s Grammar School, are set to entertain the crowd with some Christmas songs.

This ever popular event will be bustling between 3pm to 6pm.

Guests can peruse the stalls and enjoy some mulled wine and also a BBQ. Children will also be able to visit Santa’s grotto and enjoy

fairground rides. The official switch on of the lights will be at 5pm. Each year, a local person who has made a difference within the community is nominated to switch on the lights.

It is set to be an exciting weekend all round, as St. Dominic’s Grammar School hosts its Enchanted Forest Ball on Friday 23rd November and Christmas Feast on the Sunday. Both will take place within a sumptuous marquee in the Sir Jack Haywood Hall. The Ball will have many exciting extras including, Porsche Wolverhampton showcasing their amazing vehicles, an interactive DJ and a cocktail bar.

a chance to buy your Christmas gifts, cake and mince pies and of course, a chance to meet Father Christmas!

Guests can relish in the afternoon feast and make use of St. Dominic’s car parking facilities, as they pop into Brewood for the light switch on. There is no better way to start the Festive Season!

The lavish Christmas Feast will be held on the 25th November and is open to all; with a 12.30pm and 2.30pm sitting, there will also be plenty of time to visit the Christmas Fayre in Peakman Hall. It will be bustling with lots of wonderful stalls,

Friends of Bantock House

Museum and Park

which will all overwinter to burst into life next spring. Our volunteer BUGs (Bantock User Group) have planted the Dutch Garden which will do likewise and welcome those who take walks, visit the museum, or just visit the cafe.

A Spanish university doing research into Alzheimer’s included the monitoring of 6,500 UK individuals over 10 years, and found that those with access to green spaces nearby maintained a cognitive score higher than those who didn’t. Besides providing the opportunity for exercise which is undoubtedly good for our physical health and wellbeing, apparently a visit to the park is good for our brains too!

We are so fortunate to have access to Bantock at all times and all year round.

It benefits the environment and its visitors in many ways. For flora and fauna it provides an ideal habitat.

Plants, particularly in the wildflower areas, will have dropped their seeds, and insects laid their eggs, 130

If you wish to join us in supporting the Council to ensure that Bantock continues to be interesting and attractive to all visitors at all times please email bantockfriends@ virginmedia.com or telephone FoB Secretary: 01902 331272. Single membership is £10 or £15 for a household. If you have a few spare hours a month and would like to join BUGs in gardening and litter-picks please call Val: 01902 342715 or Roger: 01902 341930. wolverhampton west magazine

BircHFiEld Girls

come up trumps!

sport in general. We encourage all our pupils to participate in a wide variety of sports at school and it is wonderful news that their efforts have been recognised’, explained Mr Anderson, Director of Sport.”

Seedhouse, also plays cricket locally and for the U13s Shropshire County; in addition she captains the U13s team at Birchfield School.

“Esther and Grace are the first girls from Birchfield School to win sports scholarships to Shrewsbury School, and this demonstrates their ability and commitment to

The Headmistress of Birchfield School, Mrs Morris, commented that Shrewsbury School was clearly impressed with the girls’ sporting skills and their overall attitude on the day and added that “the school is immensely proud of them both on this outstanding achievement”.

It is smiles all round for two of Birchfield School’s girls who have both gained prestigious Sports Scholarships to Shrewsbury School.

Head Girl, Esther Hurford, plays cricket for two local clubs and also for the U13s Shropshire County Cricket team. Prefect, Grace

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Esther Hurford & Grace Seedhouse

131

Affordable

Fitness

South Staffordshire Council provide 4 leisure centres which include Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne.

Join any one and use the other three sites at no extra charge.

Memberships are flexible and affordable with prices starting from just £21 per month, that’s just £5 per week!

For this small cost, you will get access to all areas including the gyms, a huge range of

exercise classes, swimming pools, toning suites and the indoor cycling studios.

The facilities are friendly and we welcome all ages and abilities, with sessions and activities to suit everyone. As a member, you can request a FREE health check to help you get started and a personal fitness programme to help determine your goals and get you on the right track.

We also provide a discounted scheme for people who need to take regular exercise to improve health. This scheme is called ‘Forward to Health’ and is a 12 week programme consisting of regular consultations with one of our fitness experts who will help and advise you along the way. There is certain criteria in order to be eligible for this discounted scheme.

The leisure centres are open to both members and non-members, however we charge no joining fees, there are no long term contracts and no cancellation fees.

CUT OUT YOUR FREE DAY PASS AND GIVE US A TRY! www.sstaffs.gov.uk/leisure

CALL NOW Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre Codsall Leisure Centre Penkridge Leisure Centre Wombourne Leisure Centre 132

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Codsall Codsall Leisure Leisure Centre Centre01902 01902844032 844032• Cheslyn • Cheslyn Hay Hay Leisure Leisure Centre Centre 01922 01922417790 417790 Penkridge Penkridge Leisure Leisure Centre Centre 01785 01785714152 714152• Wombourne • Wombourne Leisure Leisure Centre Centre01902 01902898202 898202 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk 133

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wolverhampton west magazine

A Christmas Tree Extravaganza

IN PATTINGHAM

Preparations are underway for a Christmas Tree Festival to be held in St Chad’s Church, Pattingham with over 30 decorated and lit trees anticipated to be on display.

THE FESTIVAL

will be open Friday December 7th and Saturday December 8th from 10 am - 6pm, and on Sunday December 9th from 11.30am 6pm. Admission charge is £2.50 per adult, children under 16 free. Come along with friends and family to admire the many decorated trees, why not vote for your favourite one? Buy a raffle ticket - there are some super prizes to be won - and refreshments will be available at the Lychgate Coffee Shop, The Pigot or the local Coop, all very close to the Church.

Memory Christmas Tree - baubles will be available from St Chad’s Church throughout November and at the Festival itself, where you can write the names of loved ones and then hang it on the tree during the Festival. Donations will be taken alongside the tree.

EVENING ENTERTAINMENTS - on Friday 7th December at 7.30pm there will be a concert called ‘An Evening of Christmas Music’ in St Chad’s Church,

Pattingham - Christmas songs, carols and music - mulled wine and mince pies - Tickets are £5 each and are available now from Liz Sampson on 01902 700823.

On Saturday 8th December at 7.30pm in Pattingham Village Hall, a stomping good evening is planned with “CASABLANCA STEPS” the leading 1920’s musical comedy act - as well as a licensed bar, supper and great entertainment.

Tickets are £15 each and are available now from Chrissie Ringrose on 01902 700340.

The Festival will close with the monthly

YOUTH SERVICE

at 6.30pm in St Chad’s Church on Sunday 9th December.

MEMORY TREE

- special for this year will be a

2018 CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL

At St. Nicholas Church Codsall

St. Nicholas’ Church in Codsall will be holding its 6th Christmas Tree Festival on 7th, 8th and 9th December.

Come and enjoy the atmosphere of St Nicholas Church, filled with trees all uniquely decorated by schools, local groups and charities. There will also be a Tree of Remembrance giving people the opportunity to leave a special message to loved ones now departed.

Each Christmas Tree Festival is special. There are always new trees to see, maybe the opportunity to get ideas for home and above all, it’s a great way to spend the beginning of the season in church with family and friends.

The Festival will open on Friday 7th December at 2.00 pm with the Choir of St. Nicholas First School. Refreshments will be available including mulled wine, homemade cakes and mince pies.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Opening Times: Friday 7th: 2.00pm - 7.00pm Saturday 8th: 12 noon - 5.00pm Sunday 9th: 1.00pm - 5.00pm Admission: Adults £3.00 Children under the age of 16 - Free 135

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Rudells Rolex and Fope Event

1. Paul Probert, Lynda Probert with Glenn.

2. Fay Shipley and Pete Murtha.

3. Jon (Rudells MD) with Aaron Byfield and Sarah Fitzgerald.

As the autumn sun was setting, the grand lights of Hagley Hall shone bright in the Worcestershire countryside as it hosted an evening dedicated to exceptional Rolex timepieces and beautifully crafted jewellery by FOPE.

4. Bella and Ashni Kumar.

5. Lee with Rebecca Bullock and Edward Lyons.

The chandeliers twinkled from above and the cocktail bar was in full swing whilst watch enthusiasts tried on some of the most sought after models released

by Rolex this year at Baselworld, including the Rolex GMT-Master II. Alongside the watches was a dazzling display by FOPE, showcasing a range of exquisite jewellery, all crafted in the heart of Vicenza.The Prima, EKA and Solo collections, to name but a few, were admired for their enchanting styles that are perfect for all occasions.

Sponsored by

Entertainment came in a magical form, as the spectacular evening ended with a time travelling finale by magician, Ed Hilsum.

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6. Guests mingling amongst the Rolex watches.

7. Peter and Jean Marsh with Gail.

8. Geoff Hall and Gisella Wiley.

9. Megan with Elizabeth Lewis.

10. The cocktail bar proved very popular.

11. Guests enjoying the grand surroundings of Hagley Hall.

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Grill-It Newbridge The Newbridge-based restaurant hosted a party to celebrate a very successful and enjoyable year since the launch of their phase 2 extension.

Invited guests enjoyed delicious complimentary food and tasty cocktails, guest DJ Stuart Ojelay played some classic tunes throughout the evening to create a perfect party atmosphere.

Sponsored by

1. Costas Xiourouppa, Costas Nicodemou.

2. DJ - Stuart Ojelay.

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3. Jamie Beech, Lucy Harold.

4. Costas Xiourouppa, Nathalie Zabbal, Paul Danks (Owners of Grill-It) with all the Grill-It staff.

5. Costas Xiourouppa, Ricky Singh Boparan.

6. Matt Hambrook, Jenny Hambrook, Vicky O’Connor, Aimee Harrison, Guy Harrison, Damion O’Connor.

7. Jamie Horny, Liam Gould.

8. Paul Sharples, Becka Sharples.

9. Faye Campbell, Zak Douglas.

10. Ben Billingham, Jessica McKoy, Kayleigh McKoy, Jamie Beech.

11. Aimee Cox, Liz Hoyle, Richard Alexander.

12. Mark Danks, Claire Danks.

13. Royston, Costas, Nick, Paul. wolverhampton west magazine

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Wolverhampton Racecourse Wolverhampton Racecourse staged its sixth ‘Music Live’ fixture earlier this year as Brit award winners Kaiser Chiefs rocked the stage to over 4,500 visitors on Saturday 1st September.The ‘Music Live’ fixture was combined with the popular ‘Ladies Day’ feature and guests enjoyed an array of entertainment around the racecourse, along with a fantastic day of quality racing on the all-weather track.

Sponsored by

Those who were dressed to impress were able to enter the ‘best-dressed competition’ where the winner received a spa day for two at Telford Hotel and Golf Resort along with transport to and from the hotel.The racecourse will stage another great ‘Music Live’ fixture next year so keep your eyes peeled for any announcements at wolverhampton-racecourse.co.uk.

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1. Jenna Knight, Charlotte Amos, Lauren Hanslow, Jemma Hanslow, Lydia Simpson, Emily Kettle.

2. Richard Neale, Georgina Lovell.

3. Kieran Broomhall, Jack Hollinshead, Josh Hollinshead.

4. Jo Rumney, Millie Mifflin, Mae Sylvester.

5. Rachael Davis, Sarah Hooper.

6. Adele Farrell, Sonya Tilford (winner of best dressed lady), Leslie Bennett.

7. Horizons Restaurant.

8. Jackie Foster, Caroline Kohut.

9. Sophie Thompson, Lily Russell.

10. Jackie Price, Jonny Davies, Kelly Wycharley, Greg Wycharley, Kenny Farrell, Becci Farrell, Jodie Owen, Tom Millington, Joy Williams.

11. Maria Ormerod, Jacqueline Ryan, Sheila Clarke.

12. Becky Jones (Bride to be), Jenny Jones, Katie Bower, Meg Spendlove, Tory Sterry, Wendy Bower, Wendy Hall, Cherry Hughes, Abi Lloyd, Charlotte Beasley, Jess Beasley, Karen Monteith, Clare Jones.

13. Suzanne Colley, Liz Foster, Tracey Nelson, Jen Bowater.

14. Lucy Thomas, Natalie Fellows, Elle Fellows.

15. Jo Jesse, Mandy Probert.

16. Tammy Jones, Lucy Paddock, Laura Jones.

17. Lydia Hughes, Emma Fellows. wolverhampton west magazine

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6 Family, friends and customers all enjoyed the celebration while sipping champagne and were treated to a ‘Heaven goodie bag’ as a thank you for their support.

Salon owner Fiona Beech organised a party at the salon to celebrate 6 years in business. The celebration coincided with the launch of the Lipolis7 which is the latest in anti-ageing technology.

1. Therezia Duffy, Sue Townsend

Sponsored by

Olivia’s Beauty Warstones

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2. Christine Baggott, Clare Goode 3. Lisa Bahia 4. Vlad Mihali 5. Kerry Hyde, Sarah Lankester 6. Therezia Duffy, Olivia Beech, Fiona Beech, Brigid Griffiths 7. Wendy Dalton, Maria Dalton wolverhampton west magazine

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Patshull Park Hotel Pattingham On 8th October Aristocats held their Autumn/Winter Fashion show at Patshull Park Hotel. Professional models demonstrated the collection to an enthusiastic audience of one hundred and forty eight people. The event raised £1476 which was donated to the Rotary

Club of Bridgnorth who intend to make the main beneficiary the Cavalier Centre. This donation will assist with the completion of the new horse riding centre designed for disabled children and adults.

1. Robert Davies, Carol Billingsley.

2. Joyce Smith, Avril Hickman, Denise Davis.

3. Liz Stoll, Gill Rollings.

4. Josie Taylor, Jean Davies, Sylvia Yardley.

Sponsored by

5. Moira Parker, Sian Bladen.

Specialists in helping people to retire early www.midlandifa.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

6. Eunice Nichols, Elizabeth Wardrobe, Anne Smith.

7. Julia Oakley, Jenny Woodward.

8. Glynis Hall, Hilary Kirton, Lynda Collins..

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Park House Hotel Shifnal On the 7th September, a Masquerade Ball organised in memory of the beautiful Ava Akers and to support the newly established charity Ava’s Angels, raised over £7,000.

Hosted at the Park House Shifnal, 150 close friends and family were greeted with a drinks reception, entertained by JDMagic, enjoyed a three course meal and danced until the early hours.

Amazing generosity was shown by those who donated to the auction and raffle, as well as guests bidding on the night.

1. Shaun Parkes, Kelly Parkes, Haley Hickman, Craig Hickman.

Sponsored by

2. Louise Hammond, Nick Jeffs.

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3. Becky Davies, Helen Akers, Phill Akers, Stephanie Mottershaw.

4. Thomas Croydon, Gemma Guest, Lesley Croydon, Philip Croydon.

5. Aynnioe Treasure-Ives, Mel Samma.

6. Stuart Akers, Helen Akers, Phil Akers, Iris Akers.

7. Anoop Gandhi, Jemm Bennett.

8. Natalie Bartleet, Kim Perry, Kim Earnshaw, Stephanie Mole.

9. Morton Bartleet, Darren McDermott.

10. Kim Perry, Sarah Tibbetts, Ben Tibbetts, Shaun Perry, Mark Jones, Sarah Layton.

11. Paul Fenn, Claire Fenn.

12. Dave Malpass, Jo Malpass, Antonio Calleia, Lauren Jones, Darren Jones, Dulcie Calleia.

13. Sam Pedley, Samantha Harvey, Nikki Harvey, Jordan Burgess, Karen Smith, Mike Smith.

14. Keran Sanghs, Helen Akers, Katherine Walker. wolverhampton west magazine

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Park Hall Hotel Wolverhampton A launch event was held at the Park Hall Hotel in aid of Elle’s Angels, a local charity offering much needed support and therapies, both alternative and traditional to children and young adults in our community.

370 guests enjoyed a meal and entertainment by the ultimate 80s party band, ‘kick up the eighties’. An auction and raffle helped to raise a magnificent £22,000.

Sponsored by

1. Max Iles, Sam Andrews, Tony Andrews, Vicky Andrews, Dan Granger, Amanda Andrews 2. Harry Hales, Aimie Evans.

3. Kerry Moseley, Rachel Memie, Jane Wellsbury, David Thomas.

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7 4. Dave Earnshaw, Dave Roberts, Lawrence Sutton, Lloyd Sutton.

5. Annette Tilley, Hattie Tilley, Tim Tilley.

6. Thomas Pinfield, Danielle Nevitt, Leanne Watterson, Dan Watterson.

7. Julia Smith, Ian Smith.

8. Nin Kulair, Ravi Senghira.

9. Elle Davidson with Angels Lou Evans, Amira Davidson, Amanda Sperling, Leah Davidson, Liz Hague, Lou Faux, Annette Tilley.

10. Amanda Westwood, Cheryl Bickerton, Philippa Lay, Jackie Powis.

11. Grace Beazleigh, Brad Davidson, Lawrence Sutton, Summer Brighton.

12. Diane Behari, Keith Marks, Mia Behari, Wendy Marks, John Behari.

13. Tracey Elbro, Corrina Griffiths, Lauren Griffiths, Maddie Elbro.

14. Mandy Jordan, Sue Preston, Mandy Erasmus, Clair Glover.

15. Nikki Quarry, Rose Hemmings, Mandy Johnson, Natalie Hemmings. wolverhampton west magazine

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The Park House Shifnal The Park House Hotel in Shifnal hosted a Charity Bridal Fashion Show on 20th September, which was in association with Tommy’s, the charity that helps fund research into miscarriage and premature birth.

Sponsored by

The event was supported by over 20 local businesses, all giving their time for the evening and donating some amazing prizes.

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The hotel itself gave away a whole wedding package, there was a wedding dress donated by Champagne and Roses, photography by Phil Nock and much much more, which combined to be one amazing prize of a whole wedding! One lucky winner was drawn on the evening and received this fantastic prize.

The event raised £1400 for the charity and helped raise the profile of the amazing work they do.

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Molineux Stadium Wolverhampton Wolverhampton Cricket Club Chairman Mike Elphick organised a Sportsman`s dinner on 20th September 2018 at Molineux Stadium Wolverhampton.

The guest speaker for the event was former Wolves player Steve Daley who had everyone laughing with his self-deprecating style of humour while reminiscing about his days as a professional footballer. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

7 The event was attended by over 200 people who contributed to raising a significant amount to help the club with funds to support their ladies and visually impaired teams.

1. Mike Elphick, Steve Daley 2. Peter Evans, John Summerfield, Chris Bowyer, Tariq Ali, Jim Winspear, Ian Pinfield 3. Mike Elphick, Karen Elphick, Lindsey Rogers, Kevin Rogers 4. Victoria Attwood, Sarah Roberts, Nick Berriman, Katie Berriman, Caroline Snape, 5. Karen Elphick, Liz Bowyer, Heather Lycett 6. Sally Ashwood, Michelle Dean 7. Steve Daley 149

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Oxley Park Golf Club

A sizeable contingent of former Wolves heroes took to Oxley Park Golf Course for the Former Players’ Association’s Annual Golf Day, raising almost £8,000 in the process.

The WFPA’s new Vice-Chairman John Richards was among those taking to the tee for 18 holes, followed by an evening dinner hosted by Steve Daley and Steve Kindon with entertainment from former Britain’s Got Talent finalist Les Gibson.

The money raised will be split between four charities - Smile for Joel, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Clic Sargent and the Maureen Parkes Breast Care fund.

Andy Lavill, Dave Grainger, Geoff Palmer, Dave Brookes

John Richards (vice chairman), Richard Green

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Ian Cook, Dave Lorron, Marin Calaman, Keith Biddle

Joe Mayo, Phil Parkes

Kenny Hibbitt, Richard Jordon

Barry Evans, Terry Warter, Nigel Tenant

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A new perspective

Using the latest in drone technology Wolverhampton-based aerial photography experts, iSky Media, enable their clients to see the world from a whole new viewpoint.

assess issues at their property, saving hundreds of pounds and time in the process.

Whether it’s providing a different perspective for a special event, capturing breath-taking footage of a treasured classic car or offering an up-close-and-personal look at difficult to reach places (chimneys, roofs etc). iSky’s drones are so versatile that any aerial view is possible.

And, homeowners have been delighted with the cost-effective and efficient service too.

As company director, Daniel Parton explains: “We’re Civil Aviation Authority accredited and fully insured for the commercial flight of drones.”

For those selling their property, iSky can turn footage into premium promotional video.

Offering a professional and highly efficient service, the iSky team are able to fly their drones to most locations and capture footage quickly and effectively, providing clients – which include housing associations, architects and estate agents and the general public – with all the material they need in either photo or video form.

“Our drones are regularly employed to inspect hard-to-reach areas of buildings, like chimneys and roofs, because they eliminate the need for costly scaffolding as well as reducing time scales.”

Both domestic and commercial clients alike have used iSky’s drones to diagnose and

“We were asked to use our drones to capture footage of Wolverhampton’s St John’s Church recently, we arrived on-site in the morning and had all the footage required ready to deliver within hours.”

“Our property and land surveys provide an indepth look at any location you may be considering purchasing, or that you already own, to give you a viewpoint that allows you to see it from every angle.”

Of course, the drones can be used for creative projects too and are perfect for a special event.

“We can provide raw footage or edit it to create a unique piece of media that’ll capture the magic from a different perspective.” iSky’s aerial video and photography is just what you need for getting some amazing shots of your pride and joy, whether that’s your property, car or boat and makes an ideal gift for any occasion.

“Automotive and marine photography is a real passion of ours and we’ve captured footage that showcases the beauty of all sorts of vehicles for our clients. We’ve made videos that are specifically designed for selling a vehicle too,” adds Daniel.

Whatever you’ve got in mind, let the professionals at iSky provide you with a brand new perspective.

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iSky Media Limited www.iskymedialtd.co.uk daniel@iskymedialtd.co.uk For further details please call Daniel 01902 421764 or 07809 419290 wolverhampton west magazine

Winter

Tyres

Winter tyres are not just effective in extreme snow conditions, they provide a decreased braking distance on icy roads, improved braking in wet conditions and provide better emergency braking on wet, icy and snow-covered roads.

winter conditions due to innovative winter tyre technology.

For these reasons, winter tyres are highly recommended for use in temperatures below 7°C, which in the UK is around 150 days of the year.

3. Resistance to aquaplaning - The specific tread pattern design of winter tyres can disperse more water which reduces the amount of water between the road and your tyres.

Advantages of using Winter Tyres: 1. Shorter stopping distances - with braking distance significantly reduced in snow, ice and wet conditions.

4. Increased tyre life We offer a wide range of winter tyres and will be able to advise

2. Improved performance and safety - more control in

you on the right ones for you.

Not only that, whilst using your winter tyres, we offer a ‘Tyre Hotel’ service. Your summer tyres will be labelled and safely stored on our premises until you need them again. Contact us for further information.

For more information on winter tyres, including our tyre hotel, please contact Simon, Mac or Hayley at HiQ Wolverhampton on 01902 420234.

HiQ Wolverhampton.

Keeping you safe on the roads this winter.

FREE

winter health check.

Winter tyres

Tyre Hotel

from

Ask for details.

£48

Store your tyres throughout the winter.

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Ask inside for details.

HiQ Wolverhampton 11 Chapel Ash, WV3 0UB

01902 420234

www.hiqonline.co.uk/wolverhampton

Tyres • Exhausts • Brakes • Batteries • Servicing • MOTs www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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by Rob Taylor

Jaguar E-Pace

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This SUV is a handsome beast. Nothing like the many scaleddown imitators of fellow brand stablemates you see so often in traffic jams, this new Jaguar E-Pace is a bona fide gem. OK, so it does definitely support the current Jaguar ‘design language’ (which is pretentious speak for how all vehicles by one manufacturer look vaguely similar these days, especially from the front) but I see shades of F-Type: wrap-around tail-lights, elliptical headlights, muscular proportions, short overhangs and pronounced haunches.

The E-Pace intends to “combine sports car design and agility with everyday SUV practicality” according to Jaguar. So let’s see. It’s based on last year’s World Car of the Year-winning F-Pace and Jaguar’s all-electric I-Pace - that’s right I know some of you may have been thinking the ‘E’ made the E-Pace all-electric, well, it doesn’t.

The E-Pace range gives you four-cylinder Ingenium petrols and a few diesels too, with power outputs ranging between 148bhp to this, the top-end and top-notch turbocharged P300 petrol. It delivers 295lb ft of torque and the 296bhp unit is a direct descendent of the F-Type’s four-cylinder: again, very good news. Good also for a 0-60 mph run of 5.9 seconds.

Entry-level models are front-driven, but this vehicle benefits from a clutch-based four-wheeldrive system that can direct drive to both axles through its nine-speed automatic gearbox. The most powerful variants also get a torque-vectoring rear differential, which is related to that on the Focus RS. The range starts relatively inexpensively at around £28,500 but you won’t get anywhere near this variant for such a meagre budget because the P300 HSE costs just over £50,000. But, hey, don’t worry; no one actually buys cars anymore now do they?

Going head-to-head with the majestic Volvo XC40, the E-Pace has a lot to measure up to - especially given the challenge it faces from a market that is traditionally dominated by the Germans. However, I’m pleased to report that Jaguar’s new compact performance SUV is a hit. It is competent, desirable and offers serious thrills internally. The cabin quality is peerless and features the latest in car connectivity, including a 10-inch touch screen as standard. The E-Pace has exceptional interior space and can seat five in comfort; its ride is refined and comforting - even on massive 20” alloy wheels - and the steering gets you just involved enough to make you glad that self-driving cars are still dim-witted gimmicks.

There’s also a suite of connected technology and safety features: for example, advanced driver assistance technology that includes Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection (a technology that is able to detect a collision risk with cars or pedestrians in the road ahead and automatically apply the brakes), Lane Keep Assist and Driver Condition Monitor; and it has a five-star Euro NCAP rating making it among the safest on the market. And its Matrix-Laser LED headlights are really something too: they split the main beam into imperceptible vertical strips that maximise light around oncoming traffic while casting a shadow in front of oncoming vehicles to prevent dazzling.

In fact, ‘dazzling’ is as good an adjective as any to sum up this latest Big Cat. Far from just another compact SUV it goes beyond the bounds of what you can reasonably expect from a vehicle, delivering an incredible package of practicality and performance, all geared perfectly for everyday life. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Make your car look amazing with

Select1 Automotive

The experts at Wolverhamptonbased vehicle tinting, wrapping, paint protection and detailing business, Select1 Automotive, are specialists and are passionate about creating an individual look for their clients’ vehicles.

Utilising their impressive 25 years’ combined experience and working only with the latest and best technologies, brother’s Rick and Steve boast a portfolio of work that includes some of the best automotive brands in the business.

As Rick explains: “We’re experts in our field and have a true passion for vehicle customisation as well as a commitment to offer our customers only the best bespoke packages and service across all vehicle makes and models.”

And, it’s this dedicated approach that has seen the company become so successful over the 10 years they’ve been in business.

“We’ve established a loyal base of returning customers who trust us to take care of their pride-and-joy.”

Both self-confessed perfectionists, Rick and Steve work to the highest possible standards and won’t rest until every detail is completed to their satisfaction.

“Having worked on all of the most prestigious marques, including Maserati, Bentley, Porsche, BMW, Range Rover and Mercedes just to mention a few... We truly understand just how important your vehicle’s appearance is to you.

“We pride ourselves on the comprehensive service that we offer our clients; when you choose us you can rest assured that you’re dealing with professionals.”

In fact, when it comes to customising your vehicle to a high standard it’s essential to take your car to an expert.

“We can protect your vehicle’s paint by applying paint protection film that has self-healing and hydro-phobic properties that will protect against scratches, stone chips and all the elements.”

They also offer a range of services related to alloy care including wheel refurbishment, car wheel repairs and alloy colouring throughout.

Select1’s professional detailing is carried out with the utmost care too.

“We work across all levels of car detailing - both exterior and interior - to take care of everything from maintenance washes to major, or minor, paint correction jobs. We only use specialist car products and techniques to bring out that depth of shine” adds Rick.

So, why not make your car stand out from the crowd this summer with a visit to Select1 Automotive?

Paint Protection Film • Detailing • Alloy Wheel Refurbishment & Colour Change Vehicle Tinting • Vehicle Wrapping & Livery • Brake Calliper Colour Change • Bespoke Design Enquiries: 01902 428272/504442 email: info@select1automotive.co.uk Unit 25 The Hollies Ind. Estate, Graiseley Row, Wolverhampton WV2 4HE

www.select1automotive.co.uk 156

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a Warm Welcome awaits you at

seIsDON GaraGe

Seisdon Garage is a long-running family business located on Crockington Lane, Seisdon.

Since it was established in 1964 it has been keeping local motorists happy with an affordable, professional service that is second to none. And today is no different - in fact, today the garage is growing rapidly, while managing to maintain its close ties to the village community.

“We know most of our customers on a first name basis and vice versa,” says Joint owner Dean Barnsley.

“We’re not a fast-fit centre. We don’t rely on selling vehicle parts and labour to meet targets. We offer an affordable, professional service that hopefully brings

customers back and has them recommend us to others.”

This friendly, local service is a refreshing change in a market full of mega-companies looking to exploit customers’ ignorance. But don’t think because Seisdon Garage isn’t a big name player it’s in any way lacking, it has every service option for your vehicle - whether it’s a Hybrid, Electric or even a Classic.

Seisdon even looks after Supercars.

“One day we might see a 1960s E-type Jaguar, the next a plug-in Hybrid. But whatever the vehicle, we carry out all types of repairs. Fixed price servicing is available and so too are genuine parts.”

air conditioning re-gassing, full diagnostic engine management checks, ABS, DPF and turborelated fault fixes. All work carries a full 12-month guarantee and is carried out by top-line professionals who together have over 60 years’ combined motor trade experience and who are kept up to date with regular CPD training.

You’ll even be treated to a free courtesy car and local customers can make use of the garage’s drop off and collection service.

“Our staff boast a wide range of skill sets from HGV, Commercial to Complex Fault finding: they’re main dealershiptrained and IMI approved.”

In addition Seisdon Garage is a Class 4 MOT centre offering free re-tests, plus

Seisdon Garage Est. 1964 • • • • • •

e

Fre MOT (while you wait, free re-tests) courtesy Servicing & repairs car with all All diagnostic work undertaken servicing & repairs!

Air conditioning servicing & repairs repairs Tyres and much more!

All Turbo, DPF related faults diagnosed and fixed

01902 895609 / 07970 936425 seisdonmotorservices@gmail.com

Crockington Lane, Seisdon WV5 7ES www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Mercedes-Benz E-Class coupé

For luxury and refinement, look no further than the E-Class Coupé

The E-Class Coupé - gives drivers all of the luxury associated with the German manufacturer’s highest specification cars but with a sleek, raked-back design.

The exterior of the car is a thing of real beauty, with the AMG line offering large 19-inch alloy wheels plus LED headlights and taillights, which help give the E-Class a distinctive visual appeal. The longer and wider body offer a sportier appearance than the previous generation E-Class Coupé too.

Inside, it’s not short of space, with ample legroom, headroom and boot capacity, which can be expanded thanks to the folding rear seats.

There’s plenty of room in front too and a great sense of space thanks to the large pillarless windows and sunroof. It’s a relaxing place to be, and one that certainly feels worthy of the Mercedes-Benz badge.

Coupé does an admirable job of ticking both of those boxes.

Prices for the E 220d Coupé start at £40,135. For that, you get parking sensors and a reversing camera, as well as an 8.4-inch infotainment screen with satellite navigation.

Upgrades include Mercedes’ premium Comand infotainment, which replaces the standard screen with a large 12.3-inch unit. For an additional upgrade, Mercedes will add a second 12.3-inch display, creating a truly widescreen viewing area. It’s an extra that completely transforms the inside of the car, and if you’re technically minded, one we’d recommend.

You also get heated front seats and steering wheel-mounted touchpads included, adding to an already comprehensive equipment list.

The E-Class Coupé is ideal for those who want a luxurious, wellspecified and premium way of getting around. With three engine choices - and two more on the way - there should be a powertrain for just about everyone, while high levels of standard equipment mean that there shouldn’t be too many boxes to tick when the options list comes out. It’s also a fine car to drive, a fine place to sit and - importantly in this class - a fine vehicle to look at.

To browse and discover more about the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, visit us at MercedesBenz of Wolverhampton on Penn Road in Wolverhampton.

Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to discuss your options, arrange a test drive and help you find your perfect E-Class.

Large luxurious coupés such as the E-Class have a difficult job on their hands. They need to offer a premium and relaxing drive, but be powerful and sporty when you want them to be. The E-Class

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV2 4HD 158

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The E-Class range now comes with 3 years free * servicing

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss out, visit us today or call us on 01902 276 977 Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton Penn Road, Wolverhampton WV2 4HD 01902 276977 Lookers.co.uk/Mercedes-Benz *All E-Class models must be registered until 31 December 2018. Vehicles must be purchased on a MBFS finance contract to be eligible. Offer includes Mercedes-AMG models.ď&#x20AC; Offer applies to all private retail and small fleet (1-24 units) customers only. ServiceCare Plan is based on 3 services taken at the relevant service intervals â&#x20AC;&#x201C; either 15,500 miles or 12 months whichever comes sooner. All services must be completed by an authorised Mercedes-Benz Retailer. This offer can be used in conjunction with all other applicable Sales Campaigns except other ServiceCare campaigns. No cash alternative.

ServiceCare plan stays with the vehicle and therefore in the event of change of vehicle ownership, the ServiceCare plan cannot be moved to another vehicle, but should be given to the new owner of the same vehicle. Mercedes-Benz Cars UK www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk 159 Limited reserves the right to amend or withdraw this campaign at any time.

Service You Can Trust We offer a friendly personalised service at an affordable price!

PAINT AND BODY REPAIR SPECIALISTS

• Accident repairs • bumper and body scuffs • Paint scratches, chips and dents • Alloy Wheel repairs • full Valet/ Mop & Polish • Classic car restoration

befoRe

• full body resprays

AfTeR

Call into the workshop for a free no obligation quote or ring Chris on 01902 597847 / 07966 931704 alternatively email elitebodyrepair@outlook.com Unit 10 Walton Works Industrial estate, Macrome Road, Wolverhampton WV6 9HD

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Aerial Photography iSky Media 152 Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel Image Luxury Travel 66 Bathrooms Carvers 21 Eaton Kitchens 25 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 41 Wall Heath Bathrooms 24 Beauty Salons & Clinics BooshTox 103 Cosmetique Aesthetic Clinic 112 Heaven Skin Care 104/105 Olivias Beauty 108 Luminaire 96/97 Beds & Bedroom Furniture Leekes 17 25 Merridale Furnishers Bedroom Wardrobes (fitted) Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 41 Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Merridale Furnishers 25 35 The Fabric Barn Val Hever Blinds 43 Building Services & Contractors Three Pines 39 Butchers Allan Bennett 62 Poxons 61 Richard Hipkiss 64/65 Caravan Accessories Cannock Caravan Accessories 67 Car Body Repairs Elite 160 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist Touch Dry 35 Carpets & Flooring - Supply & Fit Sandford Carpets 35 Car Sales & Service Lancaster Jaguar Land Rover 163 Wolverhampton Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton 159 Chiropody & Podiatry Foot Therapy 119 Composite Doors Doorsmart 42 Computer Services Finchfield IT 55 Day Nurseries Sandhills 125 Delicatessen Corbelli 63 Dentistry Parkdale Implants 2 Smileworks 110/111 Diet & Slimming Cambridge Diet 116 Domestic Appliance Sales & Repair Washer Wise 44 Domiciliary Care Services Quality Home Care 54 Driveways Resindrives.co.uk 29

Education Birchfield School 131 Newbridge School 128 Wolverhampton Grammar School 127 Electricians & Electrical Contractors Central Electrical Contracts 35 Entertainment & Leisure Enjoy Wolverhampton 73 Estate Agents Berriman Eaton 13 Fashion - Retail Aristocats 99 Fencing & Gates Profence 46 Financial Advisors Midland Independent Financial Services 14/15 Fireplaces & Stoves Flaming Fires 23 Wolverhampton Fireplaces 18/19 Firewood Black Country Firewood 49 Fitness & Leisure Centres South Staffordshire Leisure 133 Furniture & Furnishings Leekes 17 Merridale Furnishers 25 Ralvern 10/11 27 Sofa Factory Outlet Wood Depot 34 Gaming & Entertainment Casino 36 80 Garage Services HiQ Tyres 153 157 Seisdon Garage Garden Design Boningale Garden Creations 53 Gardening & Landscaping Lealans Garden Centre 51 46 Potting Shed Health Care Cover Paycare 121 Heating Engineers RS Heating 45 Hospices Compton Care 88-89/134 Hospitals - Private Nuffield 114 Hotels Park House Hotel 86 The Mount Hotel 77 Italian Deli 63 Corbelliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jewellers Rudell The Jewellers 90/91/164 T.A.Henn 9/101 Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit Bespoke Kitchens 37 Eaton Kitchens 25 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 41 Legal Services Manby Bowdler Solicitors 123 Letting Agents Berriman Eaton 13 Lighting 31 Lighting R Us Locksmiths Cummings Brothers 45 Loft Ladders Lyndale 23

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Markets Penkridge Market 75 Music Shops Music 2000 57 Opticians Taylor Biddle 113 Orthopaedic Surgery Wolverhampton Hip & Knee Clinic 123 Painters & Decorators Kevin Jackson 45 Personal Stylist Styling You 116 Photography Andrews Creative 55 Crescent Imaging 55 Designer Photography 116 Plumbing & Heating JB Plumbing & Heating 44 Property Maintenance Services S. Parton Building Maintenance 45 Racecourses Wolverhampton Racecourse 81 Reclaimed Timber Specialists The Wood Depot 34 Restaurants/Pubs 3 Hammers Bar & Bistro 84 Casino 36 80 Flamingo 86 85 Grill-It Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 83 Park House Hotel 86 The Mount Hotel 77 The Shrewsbury Arms 84 81 Wolverhampton Racecourse Wombourne Tandoori 87 Rugs 33 Frith Rugs Skip Hire Wolverhampton Skip Hire 46 Stairs & Stair Components Lyndale 23 Taxis ABC Cars 49 Tennis & Squash Clubs Wolverhampton LawnTennis & Squash Club 117 Tiles & Interiors Tile Choice 7 Travel Agents Tracy Mason Travel 69 Tyres HiQ Tyres 153 Vehicle Finishing Specialists Select 1 Automotive 156 Vein Clinics Simon Hobbs 118 Veterinary & Fertility Clinic Tudor House Vets 59 Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 83 Wedding Venues Park House Hotel 86 The Mount Hotel 77 Windows, Conservatories, Orangeries Tettenhall Windows 37

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Lancaster u nve i l s a vision of the future New 4.23-acre Lancaster Jaguar Land Rover retailer launches in Wolverhampton Since the very first Jaguar car was produced in 1935, the brand has pushed the boundaries of what’s possible. Inspired by the founder Sir William Lyons, every vehicle made is designed and engineered to combine beauty and performance like no other.

This is why Lancaster Jaguar Land Rover Wolverhampton is proud to unveil its new state-of-theart, 4.23-acre showroom to the public. Lancaster’s unparalleled range of vehicles can now be experienced in a modern and spacious environment specifically designed to make our customers’ journeys as enjoyable as possible.

Visit the new Wolverhampton site, and you’ll be greeted by industry experts passionate about the brands and cars on offer. Take a look around new vehicles in our 18-car showroom housing both Jaguar and Land Rover brands under one roof, and sit back and relax in our comfortable customer lounge, complete with TV, newspapers and magazines, complimentary snacks, and a fully-equipped barista bar.

Wolverhampton is able to offer a personalised car-buying experience, with dedicated staff and over 150 new and Approved Used cars on display. Improved customer parking, a customer configuration lounge and dedicated handover bays mean a seamless Jaguar Land Rover

The Workshop

journey. And that journey won’t have to end on the day we hand over the keys to your new pride and joy…

Our Aftersales Team has over 170 years combined experience in caring for Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles.

Our state-of-the-art workshop offers a drive-in service lane, while-you-wait servicing and complimentary Vehicle Health Checks - all undertaken by our manufacturer-trained technicians. With 29 vehicle bays and improved parts stock, we are fully equipped to keep you moving.

Our investment means not only vastly improved facilities for our

customers, but also more jobs for the local community. Head of Business, Richard Roberts, said, “I’m excited to have been involved in developing the business from 60 persons to over 100 today.

Our mentor programmes engage in bringing modern skills and attitudes to this premier site.”

As one of the UK’s leading Jaguar Land Rover retailers, we’re delighted to have invested in our relationship with one of Britain’s finest automotive brands, and you can rest assured we are fully prepared to care for and maintain our highly advanced products for years to come.

The new showroom is now open at Graiseley Hill, Wolverhampton, WV2 4HQ. Get in touch to find out more - or why not pay us a visit?

Jaguar: Call us on 01902 715 902 or email us at info@wolverhampton.lancasterjaguar.co.uk Land Rover: Call us on 01902 393 200 or email us at info@wolverhampton.lancasterlandrover.co.uk

Drive-In Service

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YOUR NEW JAGUAR L AND ROVER SHOWROOM IS NOW OPEN A VISION OF THE FUTURE Your new Jaguar Land Rover showroom comes to Wolverhampton and brings you a retail experience like no other. This bright new space is now open. Very open in fact.

You’ll have more room than ever to properly explore each and every vehicle in the Jaguar Land Rover range – both New and Approved vehicles. And, just as importantly, you’ll have freedom to think without interruption in the comfort of one of our customer lounges.

Our new facilities include: • Modern, light and spacious environment • Barista bar serving complimentary coffees and cakes • Relaxed customer seating areas • Interactive colour and trim display • Brand heritage display and merchandise area • Drive-through service area • Dedicated vehicle handover area • Improved parking with easy access • 29 bay workshop • Incremental parts & accessories stock We look forward to seeing you – and for you to see the Jaguar Land Rover range in a completely new light.

Lancaster Jaguar Land Rover Wolverhampton Graiseley Hill, Wolverhampton, WV2 4HQ www.jardinemotors.co.uk/jaguar | 01902 915146 www.jardinemotors.co.uk/land-rover | 01902 915148 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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