Wolverhampton West Magazine

December 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Christmas Edition

Win a mixed case of 6 award-winning wines with Halfpenny Green Wine Estate Win panto tickets to see Jack and The Beanstalk at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

December 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Christmas Edition

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Contents Christmas Edition The local property market by Nick Berriman 8 Bring your home to life with fragrance 12 16 Best Foot Forward funds top £98,000 16 Dragon Boat challenge Lighthouse team up with Paycare to secure future 18 Carvers celebrate 25 years’ service 20 24 Crosswords & Puzzles Leon’s Journey 26 Rotary’s Tree of Remembrance 30 32 Recipe of the month Amazing success on stage for ‘local girl’ Aimée 38/39 Carver Wolverhampton Marathon Events 40 Wolverhampton Travel Agent voted UK’s Finest 44 Grand Theatre competition 46 Advertising enquiries Email: sales@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Gisella Wiley (Sales Director) Editorial/What’s On information Email: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Geoff Hall (Editor) Magazine Design Studio 28 Design & Print (www.s28.co.uk) Wolverhampton West Magazine Lytham Rd, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY Tel: 01902 744217 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Home security: Safe and sound 52 Gardening with Ann Winwood 62 68 Halfpenny Green Vineyards competition Bangers and cash 78 82/83 Halfpenny Green Wine Estate Wombourne Tandoori food review 96/97 Royston Blythe kick-off the party season in style 104/105 106 Christmas gift ideas from Heaven Women’s fashion: Perfect party style 116/117 120 Mind Babble: No pain no gain Berriman Eaton: meet the team 128/129 140-149 Social Scene Golf Tip 154 158 Motoring: Super Suzuki Index to advertisers 161 Lookers Mercedes-Benz encourages drivers to go green 162

Congratulations to: Winners of the afternoon tea for two competition at The Park House Hotel: Debbie Gater, Wombourne Kate Emmerson, Tettenhall Winners of Spamalot competition at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Roy Huckin, Bishops Wood Anne Birkett, Codsall Winners of the meal for 2 competition at The Oakley Arms Sarah Grove, Claverley Linda McKinnon, Codsall Wood

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

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from the editor There’s not much we don’t love about Christmas at Wolverhampton West. Mince pies, mulled wine; sleepy afternoons spent watching It’s a Wonderful Life, extra time with family and friends and, yes, the presents (including the novelty socks!) are all pretty great reasons to love the festive season. In fact, at a push, I’d say that Christmas is my favourite time of the year, but here’s the rub: due to the vagaries of magazine publishing I have to write to you all about it in late October. As Trick or Treaters frolic in fancy dress outside my window, I must push the limits of my meagre imagination to conjure a vision of Christmas Future. Happily this is easier than writing about summer holidays in January, but still... And Royston Blythe must know what I’m talking about because the celebrity-hairdressers started Christmas early this year too by taking their staff to Marbella as a reward for their hard work and reaching the finals of the Midland Hairdresser of the year 2017. So let us now whisk you away into a magical realm, two months’ into the future, where the glow of an open fire will warm your face and turkey will be your staple diet. Get ready for happy times ahead - all I need now are some chestnuts. Anyhoo readers, because – as you now know – it’s nearly Christmas, panto season is here. Win tickets to see Pop Idol’s Gareth Gates wielding an axe in Jack and the Beanstalk at The Grand. And then feast upon the merits of buying from your local butcher. We have in these pages three of the very best – and Corbelli’s Italian deli too. Our 16 pages on Eating Out have everything… and a partridge in a pear tree. We have a review at Wombourne Tandoori for you to chew over. And if you’ve 04

never eaten in a Michelin-starred restaurant, trust me, now is the time to put it on your list to Santa and visit Bilash. Truly, all of our advertiser’s are more eager than ever to feed you and your friends at this time of year – you won’t be disappointed. Have I done enough to whet your appetite? Or are you thirsty for more? Halfpenny Green Vineyards is much more than just a purveyor of popular plonk, the complex now offers so much to visitors that I’d exceed my word count if I listed it all here. We have a competition for you to win six of the vineyard’s best bottles in this edition. Wolverhampton is big business right now: find out all about the Christmas lights switchon and when the Victorian Festive Market comes to town. Go behind the scenes with Berriman Eaton. Plus, we have a new Debenhams store open for business, Casino 36 and many more positive signs of investment. And about time too… But I digress: keeping it more Christmassey is Weybridge Lane gift shop in Tettenhall and keeping us in touch with what’s really important at this time of year is Compton Hospice’s Quid for Compton campaign. Please give generously. Keeping it real also is our feature on home security. And we know the value of it, as Wolverhampton West HQ was hit recently. We’ve since toughened up with T&T World and Blakes & Cummings. Let this be a cautionary tale to you all.

Fashion, Hair, Beauty (Heaven in Shifnal is a must-read) and articles about our homes are always popular around now so binge on our wares. As for the biggest day of them all, read our guide to the ultimate local wedding venues – they’ll make any blushing bride the belle of the ball. Look in our social pages and you’ll see a minor Christmas miracle, skilfully snapped for posterity by our intrepid photographer, Nigel Gooding from Crescent Imaging: yes, that’s right, Sales Director Gisella and I managed to wrestle some precious hours away from the office to go to the ball in celebration of Newbridge Preparatory School’s 80th anniversary. We’re big on education this month and feature three of the best independent schools around. Anyway – in case you hadn’t guessed! – this is your last magazine before Christmas and if WWFC are still top of the league come Christmas day, I’ll eat my paper party hat. But, er, good luck to the lads all the same. We wish all our readers a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. See you in February

Geoff wolverhampton west magazine

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The local

property market by Nick Berriman

dining room!’ We do seem to be building developments of new houses which may be to good specifications and be well equipped and appointed but which lack any progressive design or new thinking. I know there has always been gradual evolution in housing design as we have progressed from mud huts to the present day but I do think there is room for some blue sky thinking so this period can make its mark.

I was interested to read a few days ago that Mary Berry had sounded the death knell of the dining room. It seems that she has recently downsized and has decided she no longer needs a dining room. Social habits have changed over the years and many people now entertain in an informal manner in the kitchen. Kitchens have become larger and are now family kitchens and are the focal point of the home. Many families only use their dining rooms at Christmas and for very special occasions. We are slow to adjust to changing needs and the majority of new homes still conform to the traditional model of lounge, dining room and kitchen. Sometimes there is a separate sitting room or study but current designs have changed very little over the last fifty years. However if a developer built new properties with a large lounge, sitting room, study and spacious family kitchen, which would satisfy present trends, the reaction of many people would be ‘fancy asking all that and there is no 08

There has been much press recently about our ‘broken’ housing market and how it can be rectified. The government is talking about the need for another 200,000 new houses with a large proportion of social housing with the intention of providing housing choices for everyone and keeping prices under control. I read one commentator suggesting that a high volume of new houses would be the only way of reducing prices and that seemed fine for the new buyers but if prices are to come down significantly that would affect existing owners who would see the value of their hard earned property reduce with the consequent threat of negative equity and the problems that creates. There are many schemes of part ownership and assisted purchase but there is no doubt that getting on the first step of the property ownership ladder is now more difficult than at any time since the last war.

Mrs Thatcher’s sale of council houses was commendable in that it gave many council tenants the opportunity to own their homes but the problem seems to have been that there have not been enough replacements built and there will always be part of the population who need housing to be provided. Those people cannot be ignored. My present day market report can be summed up as excellent demand but restricted supply. There are plenty of buyers but after a surge of instructions in the summer we have found a slow down for which I have no cogent explanation. Our rental department reports a continuing high volume of lettings and they continue to be ahead of target for the year. Only a few of our staff have high profiles and people often do not realise how many are involved. Elsewhere in this edition there are profiles of everyone working for Berriman Eaton in the Tettenhall office and I want to pay tribute to them all and thank them for their efforts. Without them we would be nothing. This is the last edition of the year and although as I write the festive season seems far away it is the time to wish all our readers a Happy Christmas and the compliments of the season. And I haven’t mentioned Brexit once!!

Whilst we still are a property owning democracy with most people having the ambition to own their own home there is a noticeable trend amongst younger people to rent as that gives them flexibility if they want to move to new jobs and means that they do not have to wait to sell their house first. Some rent their present home and then rent in the area to which they move. Years ago most people only had one job for life but that is no longer the case and the present generation will probably have several. wolverhampton west magazine

THE ROOKERY, WOMBOURNE A magnificent residence with immense presence standing in a fine area with extensive and flexible accommodation. The elegant property has a superb main house with three reception rooms, orangery, kitchen/ dining room, four bedrooms, study, bathroom and shower room together with an adjoining two storey annex with reception room, garden room, kitchenette, shower room and two bedrooms. Detached triple garage block, gated drive and superb grounds. Total area approx. 0.5 acres. (EPC: D).

OFFERS AROUND ÂŁ1,095,000 VIEWING: Please contact the Tettenhall Office.

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Bring your home to life with fragrance With the ability to lift your mood, evoke forgotten memories and create atmosphere, fragrance is an incredibly important part of all our lives. In fact, as our sense of smell is one of our most powerful senses, the impact a whiff of perfume can have shouldn’t be ignored. Just as a specific eau de toilette or cologne can become ever associated with a particular person, when it comes to home fragrance scents can be just as personal. And, whether you want to make your room feel bigger and brighter, more intimate and cosy or even create the perfect festive feel this Christmas, it’s easy if you choose the right fragrance.

A Haven of Relaxation Transform your home into a haven of relaxation by opting for a diffuser or scented candle that’s fragranced

with scents of lavender, chamomile, bergamont, mandarin or jasmine.

accompanied by warm accents of vanilla, ginger and spice.

It’s ideal for the bathroom, so dim the lights, slip into a warm bath and enjoy the scent whilst letting the stresses of the day melt away.

The fragrance is ideal for the autumn and winter months and serves to bring warmth into every home. By positioning your diffuser or fragranced candle by the doorway visitors will be treated to the full effect of the fragrance when they step in from the cold.

Light, Bright and Airy Light, fresh and citrus scents are perfect for producing an uplifting feel and work to create a feeling of space. They’re ideal for the summer months and for those who want to complement a sleek and minimalist home interior style. Remember, diffusers are a great way to scent your room if you don’t want to leave candles burning.

Cosy and Comfortable Give your living space that homely feel with welcoming woody scents that are 12

Festive Feeling With Christmas just around the corner, you’ll no doubt be busy decorating your home to create the perfect festive look. So, why not bring your decorations to life by adding some scented candles? Not only is the flickering flame of a candle perfect for making things feel extra Christmassy, when it’s combined with the aroma of winter berries, spicy orange and forest pine, there’s no better way to encapsulate the feel of the festive season. When it comes to choosing the perfect centrepiece for your Christmas table, a candle set in a decorative holder is the perfect choice. Don’t forget, candles, candle holders and diffusers make for perfect presents, so why not delight everyone on your gift list this year with a special scent? wolverhampton west magazine

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Make your Money

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We live in interesting times. We’ve got Brexit, a Trump presidency, recent elections in both the UK and France and one coming up in Germany, plus we have an emboldened Russia. Additionally, the Pound has fluctuated, and the UK inflation is on an upward cycle. However, we have also seen some fairly resilient Stock Markets in the UK, US and elsewhere.

What it may mean for you Challenging times can be good, as well as bad, for financial planning. Either way, it often introduces even more elements that have to be considered. But first, it’s worthwhile to take a step back and consider that, whilst Brexit will 14

have a generational effect; much of what is occurring may relate more to the short-term. Yet, financial planning should often address the longer-term picture. To put this into perspective, let’s think back just 10 years. In 2007, the iPhone had only just launched, Facebook was in its infancy, and Woolworths was on every high street! As for the financial marketplace, the term ‘sub-prime mortgage crisis’ was only just coming into common usage.

Financial check-up Much has changed over the ensuing 10 years. But while it’s important to think longer-term, the demands of daily life mean that, understandably, many of us

live largely in the ‘here and now’. Juggling a busy family and social life, alongside work commitments, leaves little time to focus on finances. So that’s why it makes sense to seek professional advice, someone who will work with you to assess the bigger picture. For us, this means being mindful of meeting both the shorter-term needs along the way (such as property purchase, university costs, or special treats), and longer-term planning to ensure you can fully enjoy your later years. As part of this process, we’d consider your requirements and financial position, the mood of the financial markets, product choices, various initiatives introduced, and tax benefits on offer. wolverhampton west magazine

It pays to take advice In fact, recent research has shown that those who took financial advice (between 2001 and 2007) were, on average, around £41,000 better off by the 2012-2014 period, than those who didn’t. (Source: International Longevity Centre & Royal London, July 2017 survey)

Please do get in touch if you would like to discuss your financial needs. HM Revenue & Customs practice and the law relating to taxation are complex and subject to individual circumstances and changes which cannot be foreseen.

Numerous Developments It’s wise to take advice when you consider some of the key issues set out in this publication, along with the following:

John Webb

The Budget – at the time of writing the next Budget will be in autumn 2017, which will reflect the new timetable. As from 2018, budgets will now occur in the autumn, with simply a Spring Statement from spring 2018 onwards.

Inflation – for the first time in a long time, we need to be aware of the impact of inflation, as the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) now sits at 2.6%. (Source: Office for National Statistics, July 2017, released August 2017) www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

John Webb is a Chartered Financial Planner and a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society, the highest accolade designated by that organisation. The Personal Finance Society is the professional body for the Financial Advisory Profession in the United Kingdom, promoting the highest standards of technical knowledge, client service and ethical practice.

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

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

www.midlandifa.co.uk Throughout the year Midland Independent hold investment seminars with industry experts. If you would like to attend please email: info@midlandifa.co.uk 15

The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton

Best Foot Forward funds top £98,000 Six members of The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton spent a good chunk of 2012 wondering if it was possible to adapt a charity fundraiser, staged only in Monaco, non-stop for eight days, with the harbour as the back-drop and supported by Royalty and international corporations, to create a viable event for Wolverhampton. In the uncertain hope that the idea could be sufficiently modified to give a chance of working in Wolverhampton, it was decided to go ahead. Aldersley Stadium was booked for a Saturday in July 2013 and the job of explaining the concept and persuading 40 or so corporate patrons to give their support got underway. Thus was born Best Foot Forward. Last July saw the fifth staging of the event and lifted the total amount distributed to £58,000. In addition, a further £40,000 has been raised by other charities using the event to boost their own funds.

A total of £98,000 has been raised for mainly local causes by an event which remains unique to our city. The Mayor and Mayoress acted as hosts for the annual presentation of cheques arising from Best Foot Forward 2017, The Mayor and Acting President Paul Lockley, with beneficiaries staged over 12 hours at Susan Husband (MS Therapy Centre), Jane Ward (Central Aldersley Leisure Village. Youth Theatre) and Carol Reilly (Rotary Charitable Trust) Funds made available by 40 companies Planning is already underway for and organisations in Best Foot Forward 2018, which the city, had been released by will be staged at Aldersley Leisure laps of the stadium completed Village on Saturday, 7th July 2018. by “Best Footers” of all ages and abilities, at the rate of £1 per lap. The Rotary Club will be pleased The presentations took place in the Mayor’s Parlour and cheques were accepted on behalf of Wolverhampton MS Therapy Centre, Central Youth Theatre and the Rotary Charitable Trust.

to provide more information, not only to companies or organisations interested in joining the ranks of event patrons, but also to any groups who might like to use the event to generate funds for their own needs.

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.

On your marks…get set…PADDLE 2018 will be its 18th year and so far, with the help and support of all the teams that have taken part, over £360,000 has been raised for good causes.

On behalf of the Rotary Club of Wolverhampton we invite teams to take part in our Annual Dragon Boat Challenge. This event is all about having fun and raising money for charitable causes. The 2018 event takes place on the Great Lake at Himley Hall and Park, 4 miles from Dudley on Sunday May 20th. Quite apart from it being a fantastic day out for the teams of competitors, it has also become a thoroughly enjoyable spectator sport and family day out. 16

Each team consists of between 12 and 16 paddlers, plus one drummer who sits at the front and beats the rhythm for the paddlers to keep to. The event organisers provide the boats, paddles, life jackets and training- the event is very safe. Individual sponsors and crew members raise money from friends, colleagues and family. Half of the sponsorship is donated to the charity nominated by the crew, and the other half to the Rotary Charitable Trust for distribution to needy causes.

in the day. Trophies and medals are presented to the first three teams in the final. A team area is set up for competitors who bring gazeboes, chairs and usually, catering too. Food is also available on site. The event is a great day out for individual groups of friends, companies, competitors and spectators where the focus really is on having fun while raising monies for good causes. Please visit: www.rotarydragonboats.co.uk or call Mike Boyce on 07976 612276 for further information.

Racing takes place throughout this fun day for competing teams with thousands of spectators attending too. Each team is guaranteed three races (heats) before the finals later wolverhampton west magazine

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Ray of light for city cinema AS PAYCARE OFFERS A LIFELINE

Wolverhampton-based Paycare has stepped forward with an offer to help save Light House, the Black Country’s only independent cinema by forging a strong partnership with the key cultural Wolverhampton venue. Light House Media Centre, the city centre’s two screen cinema, café bar and gallery, was established in 1986 and transferred to the historic converted Chubb Buildings five years later. The arts venue and registered charity has been campaigning for support over the past few years after revealing it was under threat of closure following various devastating cuts to grants and funding. Paycare has announced an offer of significant support in the form of partnership investment, which will enable the venue to continue to operate and build new audiences, maintain its current programme of contemporary films and streamed theatre shows, whilst developing family film seasons, new ideas and venue hire. Kevin Rogers, CEO of Paycare, said: “As an organisation which has been based in Wolverhampton 18

for over 140 years, we are hugely proud of our roots and are absolutely thrilled to be supporting such an iconic venue that has also been an integral part of the city for a number of decades. “We are passionate about protecting and promoting everything that makes Wolverhampton such a fantastic place to live, work and play. With such a vital community asset as Light House tragically hit by crippling funding cuts, we jumped at the chance to partner with the team to help secure its future. “Our support will not only enable Light House to continue to operate, but our ongoing partnership will ensure that it is able to truly thrive and prosper and retain its reputation as one of Wolverhampton’s most valued and treasured community landmarks.” Light House CEO Kelly Jeffs expressed her gratitude to Paycare, as well as to the venue’s board of trustees, sponsors and cinema customers for their faith and support. “The support Paycare has announced will for the time being ‘save’ Light House. To operate long term we’ll continue to be heavily reliant on customer donations, but this corporate help has enabled

us to stay open while we put our new business plan in place and we are hugely grateful.” “Our customers too have shown that they passionately want to save our community venue. The way that they have rallied round with donations over the past year has been so uplifting. It has demonstrated the public need for an independent cinema and cultural destination with the personal touch.” The venue’s newly lit signage, paid for by customers who donated £5000 to a Crowdfunding project, has been installed, further showcasing that the venue’s immediate future is safe. Kelly concluded: “On behalf of the customers, board and staff of Light House, we’d like to thank Paycare for recognising how important we are to the city, and how we can be part of its cultural growth and the wellbeing of the City’s people. We’re very excited about working with such a forward-thinking, caring and personable organisation.”

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CarverS

celebrate 25 years’ ser vice… mill to work on the forklifts and side loaders, along with order picking. He is now based in the Drive Through Warehouse (another of Carvers new facilities). Paul’s dad Geoff worked at Carvers for over 14 years as a Driver and his brother Steve will be celebrating his 25 year service next year.

L-R - Mick Watton, John Parker, Henry Carver, Joyce McIntosh, Steve Smith, Paul Rhodes, Martin White

Carvers is celebrating in volumes, after six members of its workforce have achieved their 25 year service with the company this year. Things were a little bit different back in 1992, when Company turnover was at £7 million and the main building at Littles Lane was a disused railway goods warehouse with a leaky roof! Fast forward 25 years and the Company is boasting a £32 million turnover and operating from a brand new facility at the Littles Lane site, with a timber production site just a few miles down the road.

has been looking after the Littles Lane site and the staff for the full 25 years. She has seen a number of colleagues come and go and is friends with everyone! Martin White, Timber Joinery Supervisor, has worked across all departments from building yard to shop floor, finally settling in the timber office specialising in doors and joinery in 1994. Steve Smith, Garage Manager, originally came from sister company Carver Oils and joined as a mechanic based at their Willenhall depot. He moved to Littles Lane 20 years ago and has seen the transport fleet grow from 8 trucks to now over 30. Paul Rhodes, Timber Operative, started in the Warehouse and shop and then moved to the timber

John Parker, Timber Collections Operative, had experience working in a variety of roles before finally settling in the Drive Through Warehouse. During their time at the Company, the staff have worked for two generations of the Carver family and were present at the time of the Carver fire back in 2012 when the main offices, warehousing and stock suffered a devastating fire and subsequent rebuild. Carvers is incredibly fortunate as over half of its employees have achieved their ten year service with the Company and prides itself on being a major local employer with much of its workforce living within a three mile radius. The staff celebrated their achievement, along with their work colleagues for a lunch time presentation on Thursday 7th September made by Henry Carver.

It takes a special kind of person to show true commitment, particularly when it’s shown to an organisation and Carvers is lucky enough to have six such people celebrating their 25th year working for the Company. Mick Watton, Timber Mill Supervisor, first started in the timber mill on the spindle/ moulder machine and became a supervisor after two years. Ten years ago he moved to the Neachells Lane production site based in Wednesfield. Joyce McIntosh, Cleaner and mother of 6 (with 10 grandchilden!), 20

wolverhampton west magazine

Divine Divine Designs Designs at atCarvers Carvers

Visit our showrooms and discover inspirational ideas to transform your bathroom, with Visit our showrooms and discover inspirational ideas to transform your bathroom, with the latest collections at Carvers. the latest collections at Carvers. From large and spacious to small and compact, our showrooms offer a wide selection 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. of bathrooms and accessories from leading brands to suit all styles and budgets. Littles Lane, Wolverhampton, WV1 1JY Littles Lane, Wolverhampton, WV1 1JY Tel: 01902 577090 Tel: 01902 577090 www.carvers.co.uk www.carvers.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Leon’s

Journey

A charity event was held at the Crowne Joules pub in Codsall to help Leon Thompson who was born with Cerebral Palsy. Event organiser Niall O’Connor also ran in the Birmingham half marathon to further boost funds. Leon was born at 29 weeks and 3 days making him almost 11 weeks premature. As a result of being born so early he has Cerebral Palsy and, at 3 years old, is yet to talk and he is unable to crawl on all fours, pull himself up or stand. Walking is a distant goal, but it is possible. His parents live in Codsall and work very hard with Leon’s physio and take him to a lot of appointments to make sure he will reach his potential. There is a surgery called SDR (Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy) which will help Leon to walk. As the surgery is not currently available on the NHS, they have to rely on fundraising to pay for this surgery, equipment and ongoing physio so that Leon will be able to walk.

Josie Turner

Jacob Lewis, Dan Edwards, Kasia Thompson, Leon Thompson

Lynn Brunsdon, Andrew Brunsdon

Sue Wiggins, Neil Wiggins

Matt Brunsdon, Sam Brunsdon

Tony Gibbins, Dorothy Price

Jenny Cocking, Sue Wiggins

Lee Jackson, Robert Jackson, Susan Jackson

The charity fundraiser included a cake sale, quiz and a ‘sponge the chef’ competition. The event raised £530 with more funds expected from an auction of donated prizes. 26

www.facebook.com/LeonsJourney Fundraising site: www.justgiving.com/leonsfirststeps

Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

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DIY SOS

St. Michael AND All Angels

Christmas Tree Festival and Fair St. Michae’s, Tettenhall is holding its Christmas fair on December 2nd at 11-2pm in the church... but it’s a fair with a difference: this year it will combine with a Christmas Tree Festival.

year for the Tree Festival and we are looking forward to the designs that each organisation will produce.

Ten organisations, including three local schools, will each decorate a tree, the trees will then be on show during the fair and there will be a blindfold tree-decorating competition for fair-goers as well. Other attractions will be the ever-popular Chocolate Tombola, Christmas stall, Face-painting and temporary tattoos for children, plus nail-painting, children’s games, a Water or Wine stall, Toiletries stall, bric-a-brac and refreshment stand with cakes. There really is something for all the family, as event organiser Mandy Gollings says: “It is the first

“Contributors include Sunrise, St. Michael’s Primary, St. Michael’s Pre-school, Tettenhall College, Kings School and the Parish Encounter group. They will each choose a theme for their trees based upon their aims. “The Fair and Tree Festival are part of our Big Welcome Weekend in which we welcome new people into church. To kick off the weekend on Friday 1st there will be a Musical Theatre Evening, which has been very popular in the past. “Different will performers entertain us in a stunning, theatrically-lit church featuring many wellknown tunes from popular shows. We finish our programme of events on Sunday evening with an atmospheric candle-lit Advent Carol Service, which is always packed with people. ‘We would love everyone to come and join us in what promises to be a fun-packed weekend!’

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The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton

Annual Tree of Remembrance at Christmas In 2004 two very astute Wolverhampton Rotarians had an idea of how to raise money over the Christmas period for local charities.

They had seen a similar idea of a Christmas Tree operated by the Telford rotary clubs in the Telford town centre, which was surrounded by hundreds of poignant messages about loved lost relatives posted by the public and thought it was a great idea, and that it would work for Wolverhampton. So the idea was born. The original project was named the Tree of Faith and approaches were made to the Express and Star who were happy to be involved and publish

If you would like to be involved with our Tree this year and help to raise funds to be given to this year’s chosen charities, the Alzheimer’s Society, Compton Hospice and the Wolverhampton & District MS Therapy Centre, you can either download a form from the

www.rotaryclubwolverhampton.co.uk website (Tree of Remembrance), collect one from Millars Jewellers, Cleveland Street, or from the tree in the Mander Centre opposite the entrance to the new Debenhams Store when the tree goes live on 17th November 2017.

the messages and the names of those departed in the paper over the Christmas period.

The next move was to find a busy location to position the tree in, over the Christmas period. The Mander Centre was asked if they were interested in being involved, to which they readily agreed. For many years, a 30 foot spruce tree was chosen, felled and brought down from Cannock chase by up to a dozen willing Rotarians who would spend an evening dressing it with fairy lights and presents. Six purpose-made plinths were placed around the tree to display the messages on “scrolls” in alphabetical order. The same system has continued to date with charities nominated each year to receive an equal share of the donations made by the generous people of Wolverhampton. Up to a thousand letters are mailed out before Christmas to the people who have participated previously, inviting messages with a minimum donation of £5 each, that will be published in the Express and Star and around the tree over the Christmas period. Up to date, over £100,000 has been raised by the Tree and distributed since its inception, and it is continuing over the forthcoming Christmas period this year.

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RECIPE Homemade

Fishcakes

Serves 4 Ready in 1hr

A real treat for all the family. For a more luxurious version replace the smoked haddock with salmon and add a few chopped peeled prawns. To make little fish nuggets that the kids will love, shape about 4 balls from one quantity of fishcake and coat in the same way. Fry for only 2-3 mins. INGREDIENTS

• Oil for shallow frying

• 900g (2lbs) floury potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

• Salad and lime wedges to serve

• 450g (1lb) smoked haddock fillet

METHOD

• 6 tbsp canned sweetcorn kernels • 2 tbsp each fresh chopped parsley and chives • 2 tsp finely grated lemon rind • 2 tbsp seasoned flour • 1 large egg, beaten • 75g (3oz) fresh white breadcrumbs 32

1. Boil the potatoes in a large pan of lightly salted water until just tender. Drain and mash. Transfer to a bowl, leave to cool. 2. Place the haddock in a frying pan, cover with water and simmer for 8-10 mins until just cooked. Remove with a fish slice and flake the fish discarding any skin and bones. Add to the

mash with the sweetcorn, parsley, chives and lemon rind. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and mix well. 3. Using floured hands divide and shape the mixture into 8 fishcakes. Coat each fishcake in seasoned flour, then dip in beaten egg and coat in the breadcrumbs. Chill for at least 30 mins. 4. Shallow fry the fishcakes in hot oil for 3-4 mins on each side until golden. Drain and serve with salad and lemon wedges. wolverhampton west magazine

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Over 150 years old

but a very keen eye on the future… Financial Advice is provided by Concept Financial Services, who are able to offer pension advice (including finding lost pensions, pension switches, pension withdrawals or to demystify the new regulation that has made such a difference to those over 55 years old). They are also able to offer long term financial planning, protection advice (including accident and sickness, income protection and serious illness cover) or even help you plan for retirement. The Society’s will writing and estate planning service is provided by national provider The Will Writing Company with their specialists working in Society branches, available over the telephone or to do home visits if requested.

Dudley Building Society, with branches in Dudley Town Centre, Gornal, Kingswinford, Brierley Hill and South Staffordshire’s Perton, has been around since 1858 but over the past few years has undergone significant modernisation. Members at the heart As a traditional building society, customers with savings or mortgage accounts become members and it is they who own the Society, with no shareholder pay outs to consider or work towards. Dudley Building Society recently hosted its annual member event that welcomed 350 attendees to the Dudley Canal Trust where everyone involved enjoyed a boat ride, a cream tea and a chance to chat with staff in a relaxed and informal environment.

A range of services

Partnerships in South Staffordshire The Society has sought suitable partnerships to offer its mortgage, will writing and financial advice - two of these relationships are with businesses based in Brewood and Perton. The Society believes that expert knowledge should be on hand to support customers in making informed decisions with access to products from across the market to support better outcomes for everyone.

Perton branch The branch that is located opposite the entrance to Sainsbury’s in Perton is undergoing an extensive refurbishment to complete the Society’s modernisation of its branch network. Look out for launch event details in local press and on social media.

The Society offers a wide range of savings accounts including bonds ranging from one to five years, instant access, notice accounts, ISAs, and children’s accounts. The Society’s introducer only approach ensures that mortgage advice is provided by independent advisors that have access to the whole market which is further proof that a better outcome for the customer is a positive outcome for the Society irrelevant of commercial gain. Anyone wishing to review their current mortgage or apply for a new one can submit their interest by calling the Society or completing a mortgage enquiry form on the website (dudleybuildingsociety.co.uk/mortgages). Enquiries will be forwarded to a trusted third party and mortgage advice will be undertaken by a regulated Financial Adviser and can be conducted over the telephone, at one of the Society’s five branches or in the comfort of your own home. 34

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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 Dar Lighting has delivered its 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 Dar’s festive range of

decorative lighting. The holiday themed products add some modern, yet festive touches 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 and the most amazing feature of these charming lights though, is not only that they are 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 Dar’s stunning range

is a perfect solution to beat the high costs during the high season.

Our personal favourites from the collection are the LED stars in both small and large sizes. Teaming the two up together, can create a dazzling display in any window, mantlepiece, wall or even your tree! Another favourite that we simply love is the giant LED bauble. This elegant product looks glamourous anywhere! 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, not just Christmas. Especially the stars and hearts, as they give a shabby chic feel to any home. If you like the look of Dar’s Christmas range then come visit our lighting showroom in Aldersley, Wolverhampton to see them in their full effect. You can also browse through the entire collection in a brochure, which you can also view on our website.

www.lightingrus.co.uk | sales@lightingrus.oc.uk | 01902 757825 Unit 1a, Walton Works Industrial Estate, Macrome Rd, Aldersley, Wolverhampton, WV6 9HD.

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Amazing success on stage

for Aimée After joining Telford Stage School and having the opportunity to become involved in productions taking place at Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre, Aimée’s passion quickly turned to ambition.

“I was about eight or nine years of age when I decided that musical theatre was what I wanted to do.” During her time as a pupil at Tettenhall College Aimée became ever more focussed on her career aspirations in the performing arts. “I started having singing lessons with Brenda Arnold - a fantastic local teacher - and I joined the Wolverhampton Youth Music Theatre.” Wowing audiences at her performances, it was clear that Aimée shone on stage and she was soon on course to impress at the audition that would shape her future career. “I had a lot of older friends who were at drama school in London and I was keen to see what it was like there, so I stayed with them for a time and went to some auditions. It was then that I had the realisation: ‘this is for me’.”

Aimée Fisher

It’s been nine years since Aimée Fisher excitedly made her way to London’s Apollo Victoria Theatre to watch West End musical phenomenon, Wicked. At the time, the thirteen year old school girl from Wolverhampton – who was already a lover of music, drama and dance – could only have dreamed of treading the boards as part of such an acclaimed production. 38

But now, almost a decade later, Aimée is starring in the show, taking on the roles of Ensemble/First Cover Elphaba and Second Cover Nessa. It’s been an amazing journey for Aimée and at Wolverhampton West Magazine we couldn’t wait to find out more. From an early age it was clear that Aimée displayed a natural talent for performing. She started dancing lessons at just three years old and quickly developed a taste for the stage. “I’ve always loved performing and have been for as long as I can remember,” explains Aimée.

Aimée was just 15 years old when she auditioned for a scholarship at the prestigious Arts Educational Schools in London, which has produced countless household names in some of the biggest stage shows on both the small and silver screen. “Getting the scholarship clarified that musical theatre wasn’t just a hobby, it could also be a career.” Aged 16, Aimée left home and moved to London on her own to pursue her passion. She enrolled at ArtsEd to begin her Drama A-Level course and BTEC in Musical Theatre. Ever keen to expand her skillset and build on her training, Aimée began auditioning for further wolverhampton west magazine

education courses both at her current school and at the equally respected Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, London. She was offered a place at both facilities - a further testament to her undeniable talent. “I did my degree in Musical Theatre at ArtsEd and in my final year I gained agency representation, which was essential for kick-starting my career.” Indeed, achieving agency representation is a must for any aspiring performer and this was yet another accolade for Aimée. And, it was in her third year that Aimée landed the role of Belle in Beauty and the Beast and beat off fierce competition to take on the roles of Ensemble/First Cover

Fantine in the world’s longest running musical, Les Miserables.

Miserables and began rehearsals for Wicked, which opened in August.

“Leaving Arts Ed with a job to go on to really was a dream come true, especially as it’s such a very fortunate position to be in and to be a part of Les Miserables – a show that’s close to me personally – was incredible.”

But what does the future hold for Aimee?

Aimee’s first year in the industry was something dreams are made of and her second year is proving to be just as remarkable. “It was during my time in Les Miserables that I auditioned for Wicked and I was ecstatic to discover that I’d got the part of Ensemble/First Cover Elphaba/ Second Cover Nessa.” With just a two week break, Aimée completed her contract in Les

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“I want to make my CV as versatile as possible and challenge myself as a performer. I’m keen to audition for TV and film roles and I’d absolutely love to be in a period drama.” Aimée’s first love though is still musical theatre and she’s keen to take on smaller contracts in different creative venues. At just 22 years old Aimée has already earned an enviable background in the industry and has begun to achieve the recognition she deserves. We can’t wait for the next chapter in Aimée’s success story.

Carver

Wolverhampton Marathon Events The 20th running of the Carver Wolverhampton Marathon Events seems an age away but already the organisers have had the debrief meeting and are beginning to make plans for the 2018 event. This is scheduled to take place on SUNDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER 2018. The good news is that race fees will not rise and we shall soon be offering people the chance to enter with a discount before prices go back to this yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; price on January 1st. An early bird entry form will be on line on December 1st and will remain open with a discount until February 1st. The cheque presentation for 2017 will take place on MONDAY 4th DECEMBER at the invitation of the Mayor.

www.carverwolverhamptonmarathonevents.co.uk will soon be updated

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Kitchens with style – modern – contemporary – traditional Our Extensive range of kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms will enable us to create the room of your dreams. Our Computer Aided Designs will give you the opportunity to experience your new room prior to installation.

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Wolverhampton Travel Agent

voted UK’s Finest

Award Winner Kim Kent (left)

The City of Wolverhampton can claim another industry leader – Tettenhall based travel agent Kim Kent has scooped two prestigious industry awards this summer. She was voted the UK’s best Travel Agency Manager at the glittering Agent Achievement Awards held in London on 11th July, followed by being presented with the Staff Member of the Year Award at the Advantage Travel Partnership Celebration Lunch, also held in London on 6th October. Both events were attended by over 300 senior industry executives. “Spear Travels took a chance on me when the travel industry was going through a tough time” said Kent “and since then we’ve bought a shop on the high street and converted it into a place where customers can book their travel arrangements in comfort and style. We are a team of five ladies who know what we are talking about, offer exceptional customer service and who constantly go the extra mile for our customers. These awards are for all of us”. Julia Lo Bue-Said, managing director of Advantage Travel Partnership, the UK’s largest independent travel agent consortium, added: “As a 44

business, we are extremely proud of the quality of our members and the strength of the relationships we have with our business partners. We also think that it is important to recognise and celebrate success, and in a big way.” “This is a fantastic vote of confidence in the independent travel industry and we would like to congratulate Kim Kent and Spear Travels for their outstanding performance this year.” Spear Travels opened in Tettenhall in late 2013, with Kim at the helm as Branch Manager, following the acquisition of Roy Cox Travel. “This year I am celebrating my 40th year in travel so this is the perfect way to celebrate – I am as proud as punch to win these awards” added Kim.

Peter Cookson, Managing Director of the Spear Travels Group was the person who nominated Kim for the awards. “Kim is a true travel industry professional and is a loyal and hard-working member of our team and I know just how good she is at her job. There are over 4,000 travel agents in the UK and it’s fantastic that one of our managers has been voted ‘the best in the land’. We receive numerous complimentary letters from Kim’s customers about their excellent service and destination knowledge so the award is clearly well-deserved”. Spear Travels is an independent travel agency group with high street branches covering locations including North Yorkshire, the West Midlands, Dorset and Essex. With over 30 years’ experience in arranging unforgettable bespoke holidays worldwide, their level of personal service and attention to detail are points of pride, matched by incredibly knowledgeable teams who are able to offer personal suggestions to ensure you find the perfect escape. Each booking is financially protected, thanks to ABTA and ATOL accreditation, so you’re able to relax, safe in the knowledge that your dream trip is in the hands of travel experts.

Give Kim and her team a call on 01902 750361 when looking for your next escape, or pop in to see them at 5 High Street, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 8QS.

Award Winner Kim Kent (2nd left)

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Grand Theatre COMPETITION career which followed he has sold more than 3.5 million records in the UK, released three albums and had four UK number one singles. Gareth has been seen on ITV1’s Dancing on Ice and The Big Reunion 2014 for ITV. Gareth’s theatre career has seen him play the role of Marius in the 25th anniversary tour of Les Misérables for Sir Cameron Mackintosh, in Loserville at West Yorkshire Playhouse and the UK tours of Legally Blonde and Boogie Nights the Musical.

Fe-Fi-Fo-Fum, a giant of a panto comes to Wolverhampton from Saturday 9 December 2017 – Sunday 14 January 2018! We’ve got a family ticket (4 tickets in total) to give away to the 7:15pm performance of Jack and The Beanstalk on Wednesday 3 January!

Gareth Gates rose to stardom in 2002 as runner-up in the UK’s first Pop Idol. In a phenomenal

Gareth Gates stars as Jack, with returning favourites Lisa Riley as Spirit of the Beans, Doreen Tipton as the Trot’s lazy next door neighbour, Ian Adams as Dame Trot and Adam C Booth as Simple Simon, joined by television star Graham Cole as the evil Fleshcreep.

Lisa Riley captured the hearts of Wolverhampton in last year’s pantomime, Aladdin. Lisa is a regular panellist on ITV’s Loose Women and is known for playing Mandy Dingle in the ITV1 soap Emmerdale. Lazy Black Country internet sensation Doreen Tipton won Best Panto Newcomer at the Great British Pantomime Awards for her role in Aladdin at the Grand Theatre last year. Adam C Booth who received great critical acclaim in last year’s production of Aladdin will play Jack’s brother Simple Simon. Adam is a regular on Keith Lemon’s Sketch Show. Graham Cole is best-known as PC Tony Stamp in The Bill.

With over 60,000 theatregoers attending the annual Wolverhampton Grand pantomime every year, don’t miss out on tickets to this year’s gigantic show, full of laughter, music and special effects, for tickets book online at grandtheatre.co.uk, visit the Box Office in person or call 01902 42 92 12. To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and send it on a postcard with your name, address and telephone number to Wolverhampton West Magazine or email info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk by Thursday 30th November 2017.

What TV reality show did Gareth Gates rise to stardom on in 2002? A. Popstars The Rivals B. Pop Idol C. The X Factor D. The Voice 46

Competition Terms and Conditions Please send postal entries to Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY or email info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk. To be received no later than Thursday 30th November 2017. Winners to collect tickets from the box office on the evening of the performance. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash or alternative prize nights available. Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity.

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Spruce up your carpets before Christmas

with Touch-Dry Touch-Dry Ltd are a Wolverhampton based, family run business, specialising in providing a thorough ‘Dry’ deep down clean for your carpets, rugs and upholstery.

year is testimony enough to the level of customer care they achieve.

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Touch-Dry specialise in the Host® Dry Carpet Cleaning System, which is an effective method for deep cleaning carpets successfully in homes and businesses. The big advantage to this system is that carpets are ready to walk on immediately following the clean. Their cleaning system is completely safe and eco-friendly, without the inconvenience of getting your carpet wet and is the perfect alternative to the traditional wet-cleans which can have its short-comings with long drying times, shrinkage and wick back. The cleaning process ensures there is no mould or mildew risks from wet carpets and is totally safe to use around the home. Touch-Dry also offer one of the safest upholstery cleaning services available, which is super-fast drying, gives a fresh

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Safe and Sound

By Rob Taylor

An Englishman’s home is his castle. Both literally and figuratively it provides safe haven from woe, protection from enemies and shelter from storms. In 1760 William Pitt the Elder made this famous declaration about our inalienable right: “The poorest man may in his cottage bid defiance to all the force of the Crown. It may be frail, its roof may shake, the wind may blow through it. The rain may enter. The storms may enter. But the king of England may not enter.” Like our right to vote we define our lives by such principles and when they are violated by crime we are left reeling, often unable to fully enjoy our home after. Burglary is, of course, nothing new. Pinching things belonging to others is as old as the Ten Commandments but increasingly criminals are finding new ways to refine the age-old menace, ways that are sadly on the rise. The message from home security experts and the police is simple: don’t take home security for granted. No place is safe unless you make it so and we should know as Wolverhampton West HQ was recently hit. So at the time of year when the clocks go

back, returning darker evenings and longer nights to make life easier for the opportunist burglar, we take a look at what can be done in the fightback. Our approach was to bring in some of this magazine’s most trusted trades-people to help sure up our property: we fitted CCTV with an alarm and security lights, installed by T & T World, and anti pick-drillbump-snap locks from Blakes Glass & Glazing. For the garage door lock we used Cummings Locksmith in Chapel Ash. Every product and service we went for is at the cutting edge of home defence. Vehicle crime has risen in the West Midlands by forty per cent in the last three years, often car keys are

snatched during home invasions. Another new problem is a technique where locks are ‘snapped’ or ‘bumped’: a horrifically speedy and simple process wherein criminals defeat standard, multi-locking UPVC doors (of which there are millions in Britain) by breaching the cylindrical lock in order to gain access. The bare minimum for any concerned homeowner right now ought to be installing anti-snap, anti-bump and anti-drill AAA rated locks. If you take home security for granted it will only be a matter of time before you are a victim. Our advertisers have you safely covered when it comes to your next move. But in the meantime: ditch the ‘beware of the dog’ sign. Burglars know you’re less likely to use your alarm with animals around. Don’t advertise when you are going on holiday on Social Media or when you make a new, expensive purchase by leaving the empty box outside your property for collection. Don’t leave any ladders or tools lying around, as these can easily be used to gain access. Make sure window locks are visible too; thieves hate breaking glass because of the noise and risk of injury. And make sure that the products you buy to keep your home secure are of a high standard to make life harder for criminals. You’ve been warned.

wolverhampton west magazine

BLAKE’S GLASS AND GLAZING

Double Glazing Repairs and the Best Home Protection Locks

If you’ve got a problem with your double glazing, then call in the experts at Blake’s Glass and Glazing. Based in Wombourne and boasting an impressive 25 years of industry experience, owner John Blake has long been offering his customers a repair service that’s second to none. Whether it’s a lock that needs fixing, a broken handle or hinge repairing, or even new panes installing, John can help. “We take care of repairs to all double glazed windows and doors and offer a pane replacement service, which provides our customers with an easy way to upgrade their windows without opting for completely new installations.” All of the company’s glazing is backed by a five year manufacturer’s guarantee and every job is completed to the

highest standards, despite Blake’s competitive prices. Offering his customers complete peace-of-mind is really important to John, that’s why when it comes to fitting door locks, Blake’s only use the best. “Unfortunately in today’s world, snapping a lock is all too easy and whilst some cylinders may appear the same on the surface it’s vital to install a product that offers the best protection for your home, that’s why we use the ERA 3 Star Fortress Cylinder.” With 76% of burglaries occurring through a poorly secured door and 31% by forcing a lock, choosing the right cylinder for your door is essential.

Awarded a BS Kite mark and TS007 3 Star and Sold Secure accreditation it is also licenced by Secured by Design. “ERA is a trusted brand that combines 175 years of home security experience with cutting edge product innovation. Their 3 Star Fortress Cylinder offers the best protection against snapping, bumping, picking and drilling, helping you to guard your home against intruders,” adds John. So, to enjoy complete peaceof-mind let Blake’s Glass and Glazing protect your home today.

Independently tested to meet the latest industry security standards, the high performance euro profile locking cylinder has six hardened high security pins for the ultimate Anti-Pick and Anti-Bump resistance and a Defence Zone protecting the cylinder from snapping.

Call John 01902 279790 or 07973 295357 blakesglassandglazing@gmail.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Protect your home from intruders

with T&T World

Leading the way when it comes to home security systems, Cannockbased company T&T World has been helping property owners enjoy complete peace-of-mind for more than a decade. Supplying and installing CCTV and alarm systems that meet the requirements of both domestic and commercial clients alike, T&T take care of everything from a single CCTV camera to a complex commercial installation. As Managing Director, Tom Brotherton explains: “We provide a professional, reliable and cost-effective service and cover the entire West Midlands area. Our business model is to install, service and maintain your equipment, but more importantly it is to make our clients feel secure and in control.” The highly trained team tailor their service to each client’s individual needs and provide plenty of impartial advice. “The best alarm type for your home depends on your personal preference, budget, where you are, what type of property you have and the level of protection you require.” And studies have shown that a well-fitted intruder alarm system 54

can make you much less likely to become the victim of property damage or a burglary. “We offer both wireless and wired intruder alarm systems. Notification to your mobile phone can be achieved either wirelessly or when wired through your telephone line.” Of course, CCTV is an ever popular way to secure your property and T&T are experts in all the latest and best equipment. “We’re proud to provide a professional and cost-effective CCTV installation service within a 70 mile radius.” All of T&T’s CCTV systems are designed around their client’s needs and can be viewed on their local network or even remotely via devices like iPhones and iPads. It’s not just new installations that the company take care of though, they offer their clients a full aftercare and maintenance package too. “CCTV cameras, especially exterior systems, are prone to wear and tear and when things go wrong the security of your home or business is compromised. That’s why we offer an aftercare package that will keep your systems in the best working order.” Regular maintenance visits from the company’s skilled engineers ensure that problems are identified straight away.

“Our professional engineers will test your equipment and inspect all components and connections to ensure your system is running as effectively as possible.” T&T’s engineers also test your DVR’s or recording and control equipment to ensure the footage you capture is safely recorded too. A maintenance package isn’t just good for providing peaceof-mind, it’s also essential for ensuring insurance claims are easily dealt with, especially for commercial clients. “There are a huge variety of aftercare packages available, each offering a slightly different service. Whatever you choose, on-going CCTV maintenance is vital to ensure your property is protected now and in the future.” If you already have an existing CCTV system in place, you’ll be pleased to know that T&T offer a maintenance package for that too. “By choosing us you know that you’ll be in safe hands as our knowledge and expertise in the industry is vast,” adds Tom. So, whatever your requirements, let T&T World help you to enjoy complete peace-ofmind by protecting your property against intruders. wolverhampton west magazine

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How safe is your

child online?

How many of us know what websites our children are visiting and how safe they are? Most of the major Internet Service Providers (ISP) have the facility to set up parental controls. This is not usually set up by default, but requires an adult to log into their account online to set this up. You may need to set up filters to allow some sites but not others as there may be some that children need to access for school work.

If your ISP doesn’t have an online parental control, many Internet Security packages, e.g. Kaspersky, Norton, McAfee etc have this capability. It requires an adult to set it up and create a password so that children can’t disable it or allow sites through. You may get pestered to allow some sites to be viewed but the inconvenience of allowing the occasional site by entering your password easily outweighs the chance of them viewing inappropriate websites.

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Christmas Fair

Codsall Christmas Fair is back, bigger and better, for an evening of seasonal festivities on Friday 1st december. This great community event, is now double the size – meaning double the fun. With more stalls, there is certainly something for everyone – ranging from arts, crafts, gifts, food and much more. Our mouth-watering food stalls, will allow the grownups to take a night off cooking. There will also be many activities to keep the little ones busy. Plus, an appearance from everybody’s favourite football mascot, Wolfie! Live music will come from the Sunhoney, Sam Draisey, Alexandra Jayne, Steve Kaos, a Ukulele Band and the Salvation Army Band. Our traditional “Carols around the Christmas Tree” will then draw this wonderful evening to a close. You are all invited to come along, bring your friends and family, and celebrate this special event.

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Design Synaxis Design Consultancy Ltd was formed back in early 2009 and the graphic design specialists continue to offer a range of creative services to companies and organisations large and small. Managing and Creative Director Simon Pagett says: “Essentially we offer graphic design services encompassing everything from simple logos, leaflets and business stationery to complex catalogues and even ‘coffee table’ books. We are able to offer a broad range of graphic design services. “We’re based at Molineux and have worked with Wolverhampton Wanderers from our very first day, nearly nine years ago now, and we proudly continue to design their club literature, adverts, brochures, leaflets, posters, large scale graphics and, well, anything they need to support their marketing campaigns.” says Simon. “And, of course, their matchday programmes. “Aside from football, we have a lot of experience of working with companies from a wide variety of industries. These include local schools, housing and construction industries, retail, financial services, IT, health, training and recruitment, business to business services, vehicle sales and services, charities and more. “Some of our clients are nationally and even internationally recognised brands which is really exciting, but to play a part in a smaller company’s development – by way of branding or design support for their marketing initiatives – and seeing them grow is extremely satisfying as well. “We pride ourselves in developing longstanding relationships with our clients and are always open to getting involved with new ideas and projects.”

If your company needs a refresh of its marketing materials, please get in touch for a no obligation quote and see what Synaxis can do for you. For more information visit synaxis.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

MUSIC 2OOO and M2K MUSIC SCHOOL

2 into 1 does go! MUSIC 2OOO and M2K Music School are owned and managed by Mr Steve Flaherty ACAM (TD), both of which have been successfully trading since 1st August 1994.

Specialising in Keyboards, Digital Pianos, Guitars, and Drums etc. together with associated accessories. Also boasting a vast stock of music books, all of which are available on our full ecommerce website (www.music2000.co.uk). Our company is fast moving forward in the music industry and with your help we will grow even more. So we welcome your call, whether you are buying, selling or just need a little technical help, phone us now on Wolverhampton (01902) 345 999. We also have a successful tuition centre(M2K Music School), teaching some 200+ students with 14

staff who all work with various examination boards including ABRSM(The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music), LCM(London College of Music), Trinity Guildhall and Rockschool.

M2K Music School offers tuition on Keyboard, Piano, Guitar, Drums, Saxophone, Clarinet, Violin, Singing and Music Theory – M2K’s professionally trained and qualified staff offer you and your family the opportunity to play a musical instrument. During 1998 we were pleased to announce the installation

of a complete Music Teaching Academy. Since then it’s become a well-established business playing an important role in its parent company MUSIC 2OOO.

In 2014 we launched our most informative website which is www.m2kmusicschool.co.uk. Our Music School offers modern music tuition incorporating examination course material. In 2008 M2K was awarded the status of the Rockschool Examination Centre for Wolverhampton.

Book your free taster lesson now, call M2K on 01902 563504. MUSIC 2OOO 11 Broad Lane, Bradmore, Wolverhampton, WV3 9BN, 01902 345 999. M2K Music School 8 Barn Green, Bradmore, Wolverhampton, WV3 7AY, 01902 563 504.

Yamah a Genos now in store !

wolverhampton west magazine

WHERE WILL YOUR BUSINESS TAKE YOU?

MAKE NEW CONNECTIONS AND TAP INTO TALENT SPARK hub boasts a growing community of creative and tech entrepreneurs. Our office spaces attract a wide variety of talent from various industries and different fields, but the one thing they share in common is; what you know is equally as important as who you know in business. SPARK hub offers affordable coworking office spaces for every professional. At our co-working office spaces you’ll be surrounded by like-minded people who will be just as passionate and goaldriven as you are, and this will inevitably challenge you to push yourself and your business further. Our co-working spaces allow businesses to function in a shared

office environment with the benefit of working in close proximity with individuals who can provide answers to a persistent problem. SPARK entrepreneurs have the opportunity to collaborate on projects, trade and share skills, whilst enabling each other to reach new clients and customers in the process. Our co-working and office spaces are already home to talented entrepreneurs, whose business activities extend to reach and support the wider community. SPARK tenant Kevin Blair Director of entertainment companies Atmos VR, and Dark Realities uses the latest technology, and provides live streaming camera’s to the entertainment industry. The company is preparing to launch the world’s largest 4D interactive virtual reality gaming experience (www.darkrealities.com). PRINT 6 Director, Dal Dabb, recently worked in collaboration with BBC DIY SOS programme. Dal donated some of his company’s products for the ‘big build’ and contributed in helping a young family (www. sparkspace.co.uk/print6). These

are just two of our inspiring companies based in SPARK. SPARK has flexible and cost effective business accommodation which includes broadband, a receptionist and company mailbox. SPARK offices are fully furnished, contemporary styled, and are suitable for 1 person or more. Our popular co-working office spaces are a trendy alternative to an individual office and are a resourceful way to increase the positive effects of a work place, whilst simultaneously providing a constant feeling of community. Enquire now and see how SPARK can change your business, today!

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Prepare the garden for

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

if you’re planning on planting it in the garden after Christmas.

It’s unbelievable how the time flies as we find ourselves at the end of another season. While the weather is mild it’s time to get the garden ready for winter. Make sure you’ve got fleece or fleece bags ready to put over tender plants such as Cordylines, Hebes, Tree Ferns and other semi-hardy plants once the frosts arrive. It’s very important to remove dead foliage from around roses – only put on the compost heap if it’s not diseased. This year seems to have been particularly bad for blackspot on roses, due to humid damp weather conditions for much of the summer. Continue planting pansies, wallflowers and winter bedding, the sooner it’s done now the better. If we do get a cold frosty spell 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 the traditional Christmas house plants. One of the best Christmas plants is the Poinsettia. 62

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 is dry and never stand in water for longer than 10 minutes. For a cooler room the brightly coloured cyclamen are ideal. The most common cause of failure with this plant is overwatering. Only water just as the foliage begins to wilt and make sure that any excess water is removed from saucers after 15 minutes. We offer Planted Arrangements in bowls and 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.

When choosing your Christmas tree, don’t forget to have a look inside the garden centre. Most like our own centre put on spectacular Christmas displays. There’s always a multitude of baubles, garlands, lights and lit villages and if you don’t want a real tree, there’s an excellent range of artificial ones which can be difficult to tell from the real thing. Have a look in the festive light department if you get a chance – there’s so much choice today from solar powered spotlights and strings of lights to battery powered sets and the huge range of electrical sets which will switch on at dusk and switch off a few hours later – you’ll never forget to switch them off again. Once the bad weather arrives, don’t forget bags of rock salt, outdoor tap covers, snow shovels, sledges and window scrappers. Remember the birds during cold weather: keep feeders topped up and offer fat balls and specialist feeds to encourage a wide range of birds into your garden. Put out fresh water regularly especially during freezing weather.

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 wolverhampton west magazine

Wide selection of Gift Arrangements, ideal as a living present, Gift Wrapped FREE of charge. Top quality Poinsettias, Azaleas, Kalanchoe, Solanums and our own superb Cyclamen all available now. Real Christmas Trees and Holly Wreaths available from end of November â&#x20AC;&#x201C; weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll net and load them into your car for you. Come and see our wonderful array of Christmas lights, Decorations, Artificial and Fibre Optic trees all on display now.

Tel: 01902 700209 OPEN DAILY

Lealans Garden Centre Bridgnorth Road Shipley Pattingham Wolverhampton WV6 7EZ

www.lealansgardencentre.co.uk

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The Best of Borneo State Museum, the Blue Mosque and Chinese Temple as well as the largest statue of Kwan Yin (the Goddess of Mercy) and that is before you stroll through the oldest part of the city savouring the spice bazaar and handicraft markets. Sandakan – Offers you the opportunity to visit Sandakan Memorial Park, commemorating British and Australian prisoners of war during World War II.

Borneo, the thirdlargest island in the world, is located in Southeast Asia and divided by three countries – Malaysia and Brunei in the north and Indonesia to the south.

Kuching - This stylish and sophisticated city brings together a multitude of cultures, crafts and cuisines and nothing beats a wander down the waterfront promenade, soaking up the individual cultures.

It is a destination offering a wealth of wildlife, with the chance to meet beautiful orangutans, discover headhunter heritage and delve deep into nature.

Semenggoh Nature Reserve – 740 acres of sanctuary for the orangutans who have been rescued from captivity. Also take the opportunity to visit Batang Ai and meet Borneo’s native Iban people, renowned for their practice of headhunting! You might also witness a performance of a traditional war dance in full regalia.

The lush gem of an island has become a popular holiday destination for British holidaymakers, especially during the dry season between March and October, where the climate is still hot but the dramatic downpours of rain are kept to a minimum. With direct flights now available, the destination has also become much more accessible and affordable.

Bako National Park – One of the best places in Sarawak to see rainforest animals in their natural habitat, and yet only 37km from downtown Kuching.

Kota Kinabalu – This vibrant city offers plenty to do. Visit Sabah

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre – Is where you can experience a close encounter with the orangutans who are undergoing a rehabilitation programme to return to the wild. There is such a magnificent variety of experiences in Borneo. If you are thinking of travelling you do not require any visas, but will require some vaccinations. The local cuisine is diverse and there is something to be found for everyone; accommodation is generally selected for its location and may vary, but will have private bathroom facilities, air conditioning, TV and telephone. What will it cost? – A 16 day classic tour including flights, transfers, accommodation and excursions as featured exclusively by Spear Travels is £3,990 per person (based on September 2018 departure). For more details contact the award winning team at Spear Travels, Tettenhall Wolverhampton.

The best way to enjoy Borneo is by travelling as part of an organised group, where everything is arranged for you and you can enjoy travelling with like-minded people. Consider The Best of Borneo Tour – which includes all of the highlights of this beautiful destination. Here is just a taste of some of the wonderful places and experiences awaiting you if you decide to visit this spectacular part of the world. 64

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Christmas at Penkridge Market Feeling the pinch? Worried about covering the cost of Christmas? Penkridge Market may be able to help. On the 19th and 22nd December it is holding two Christmas poultry auctions. At the auctions customers will be able to buy oven-ready, dressed and long leg poultry including turkeys, geese, duck and chicken. The prices are often considerably cheaper than those available at butchers and supermarkets. The auctions will commence at 11am on each day and will be held in the main building on the market site. At the regular stall market, held every Wednesday and Saturday, you will find bargains on a wide range of items ideal for the festive period including toys, books, Christmas jumpers, decorations, fresh wreaths, gifts and food. The fruit and vegetable stalls and butchers on the market will take pre-orders on the run up to Christmas for collection on

Saturday 23rd December or earlier markets to suit you requirements. On Sunday 26th November, from 1pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7pm, Penkridge Market will be hosting the annual Victorian Christmas Market which is the perfect way to start your Christmas with a huge selection of festive gifts and foods on sale as well as an exciting funfair with Christmas entertainers.

Penkridge Market is situated in the centre of Penkridge, and is signposted off the A449. It is easily accessible from Junctions 12 and 13 of the M6 and is only 10 miles from Wolverhampton (postcode ST19 5AP). For further information please call 01785 714221 or log onto the website www.penkridgemarket.co.uk

Penkridge History Group: Diane Craddock, Claire Geoghegan, and Bevan Craddock.

wolverhampton west magazine

Christmas

at the Pot ting Shed We will have fresh premium grade Christmas tree’s starting from 5-6ft upwards and a free local delivery service if you’d like to keep your car needle free! There will be unique vintage and traditional decorations that you won’t find at many other local shops. And inspiring displays with lots of ideas for stocking fillers.

The potting shed is a boutique gardening gift shop tucked away in Limes Court Tettenhall village that offers a personal garden maintenance service carried out by qualified horticulturalists.

As well as all this of course we will have plenty of gift ideas for the avid gardener of the family, as well as fresh real wreaths, holly and all the trimmings to turn your own home into a winter wonderland.

We opened just over a year ago and have been going from strength to strength ever since.

From all the team we look forward to welcoming you!

Support local this Christmas.

What started out with me and one little van, has now turned into two vans and a team of four. Through hard work and positive recommendations and a fantastic team of knowledgeable staff we hope next year will be just as good. Our shop has also had its share of success, being shortlisted as a finalist in this year’s retail Wire awards in the ‘best dressed’ category. So, smiles all round here, and a big thank you for all the local support and loyal customers we’ve gained! Going into Autumn/Winter we’ll be giving our shop a re-vamp in preparation for Christmas. Our shop will be transformed into a Christmas cabin full of festive cheer.

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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 14 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.halfpenny-green-vineyards.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. 68

All entries to be received by Thursday 30th November 2017. 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.

wolverhampton west magazine

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brings you a city full of Joy

this Christmas

It’s that time of year again! The festive season is almost upon us; Wolverhampton welcomes Santa and his elves this December. The festive season kicks off with a whizz, bang and a pop at the City Centre lights switch on, Wednesday 22nd November in Queen’s Square from 5pm. Light switch on 6.30pm. Santa will be joined by some very special guests indeed! Enjoy Wolverhampton are working harder than ever to bring

fabulous three-day event is set to reflect Christmas past and present with unique gifts, local produce, seasonal handcrafted and home-baked goodies, bespoke Christmas decorations and holly wreaths,

a bigger and brighter Christmas with more festive lights across the city centre for a City full of Joy. Late night Christmas shopping starts on the first Wednesday in December with many shops staying open late right up until Christmas. Visit the stunning new Debenhams as well as your favourite brands including H&M, Pandora, F Hinds, House of Fraser, Marks and Spencer, Boots, The Entertainer, Waterstones, Game, HMV, River Island, Footasylum, Schuh and Thorntons to name just a few.

Wolverhampton isn’t just about shopping in the daytime; make a night of it too. Treat yourself to a magical cocktail at the Bohemian bar, or a fabulous Gin at The Grainstore. Try craft ales at Slaters, Hooded Ram and Dog and Doublet. Visit one of our many fabulous restaurants, Hungry Bistro, Zorbas, Bilash, Johnny Spice, Rocco Italiano, Cafe Maxim, and Bodrum Delight. Visit www.enjoywolverhampton.com for opening hours, the full range of shops, bars and restaurants, great places for Christmas parties and pre-Christmas pampers. There is free parking again this year at NCP Wulfrun centre and city centre car parks. Check out our website for full details or follow us on our Enjoy Wolverhampton Facebook page for regular updates.

Discover a vibrant mix of independent shops including award-winning Rudells and TA Henn for exquisite jewellery and watches. For the latest fashion visit Diffusion, Le Monde, Blue Banana, MRG and Native Menswear. Castle Galleries, Penny Farthing and Shop in the Square offer you unique gift ideas. Come along to our special Christmas market on Dudley Street on 22nd November 10am – 8pm to find beautifully crafted gifts and homemade wares. For the first time there will be a Victorian Festive Market on Wulfruna Street, 15th – 17th December. This 70

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Victorian Christmas th th Market 15th 16 17 Dec

Wednesday Late Night Shopping

Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Winter Wonderland Mander Shopping Centre Lively Bars, Cosy Bistroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Restaurants

A City full of

...Wolverhampton Department stores, Fabulous Independents & Great Brands Drinks with Friends in Real Ale Houses

City Centre Christmas Lights Switch On 22nd Nov

Jack & The Beanstalk Panto at the Grand Theatre

Discover more...

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Gorgeous gifts

a t We y b r i d g e L a n e

Now that Christmas is just around the corner you’ll be pleased to know that you don’t have to travel far to find a gorgeous range of gifts and cards, thanks to Tettenhall’s newest addition, Weybridge Lane.

There are stylish handbags from both London-based designer Red Cuckoo and fairtrade brand Earth Squared, as well as locally made bath bombs and bath products. We also sell British-made Patisserie du Bain, jewellery ranges, vintage china and a selection of Noel Tatt greetings and Christmas cards.

Conveniently located on the edge of Smestow Valley Nature Reserve, the gift shop occupies the former Ranger Station, which has been transformed to create the perfect setting to display unique ranges of homeware, fashion accessories, bath products, candles and more, which have all been hand-picked by owner, Sarah Pritchard.

And everything that’s sold at the shop is gift wrapped to make each purchase that little bit extra special.

“I wanted to offer my customers something that little bit different, so I put a lot of effort into finding a selection of unusual and unique buys,” explains Sarah.

“With the nature reserve, Transport Heritage Museum and the tearoom all next door to each other, it seemed like the gift store would make a perfect addition.”

“We have got something special for every occasion and for all ages at Weybridge Lane, including new baby and Christening gifts, plenty of ideas for birthdays, as well as festive themed hampers that make perfect Christmas presents.”

As co-owner of Cupcake Lane Tearooms, Sarah was keen to make the most of the Smestow Valley site by utilising the empty Ranger Station and creating a destination for those looking to enjoy a great day out.

Indeed, Weybridge Lane has proven to be an incredibly popular destination since it opened at the end of August, with plenty of locals flocking to take a look inside after enjoying a brisk walk, bite-to-eat or wander around the museum. “We hold a lot of different events at Smestow Valley, like craft fairs and our Santa Steam Special – which will be taking place on the 10th December, so having the gift shop open too just adds to what’s on offer to enjoy on a day out. Plus there’s plenty of easy, free parking available too.” Whilst Sarah is busy running the tearoom with business partner, Loraine, Sue Wood is in charge of the gift shop. “Sue has got plenty of retail experience and is doing a great job making the gift shop a success.” So, whether you’re keen to start your Christmas shopping or maybe just want to treat yourself to some retail therapy, make sure that you visit Weybridge Lane today.

wolverhampton west magazine

If you’re looking for something a little different this Christmas or for any other occasion a visit is a must.

All purchases are gift wrapped. Gifts • Cards • Homeware including Vintage China • Bath Products • Candles • Fashion Accessories • Handbags • Jewellery New Baby and Christening Gifts • Festive Themed Hampers

01902 256600

shop@weybridgelane.gifts www.weybridgelane.gifts www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Meadow View Terrace Tettenhall Wolverhampton WV6 8NX

Quid for Compton One week. One Pound. One goal: to fund care for families living with incurable illnesses.

This December Wolverhampton-based charity Compton Hospice will launch a brand new Christmas campaign which aims to raise much needed funds for the care of families living with the effects of incurable illnesses.

‘Quid for Compton’ will run from 11th to 17th December and encourages people to give just £1 to Compton Hospice. “It doesn’t sound much, after all a pound won’t buy you much day to day,” explains fundraiser Vicki Wootton “however, donated as part of this new initiative, your pound could go towards the cost of providing a room on our Inpatient Unit for a patient to receive respite care, or help to fund a bereavement session for a grieving family member. It could go towards supplying craft materials to deliver an art therapy session in our Woods Day Centre, or fund a nurse to provide care and support

to a family in the comfort of their own home. Your pound really will help to make a huge difference.” Compton Hospice has been caring for families living with the effects of incurable illness for 35 years and to date has supported over 35,000 people. Services include medical, social and spiritual care and the Wolverhampton site also houses one of the largest Lymphoedema clinics in the country. Currently the charity is only part government funded and the annual cost of running the organisation stands at £7.9 million.

“We would not have been able to help our patients and their loved ones without the dedicated support of our local fundraisers and volunteers,” Vicki explains, “we are so grateful for all of your contributions that help us continue to provide this excellent care. However, with demand for our services growing year on year, we need your help now more than ever.” Support Compton Hospice to have a very Merry Quidmas by donating £1 between 11th and 17th December. Donations can be made in person at any of Compton’s 27 charity shops or online at justgiving.com/campaigns/ charity/comptonhospice/quidforcompton For more information on how you can support Quid for Compton please call Vicki Wootton on 0845 2255 497, email fundraising@compton-hospice.org.uk or visit www.compton-hospice.org.uk

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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.” 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. Now, we’ve added some exiting new additions, thanks to our expert Italian chef, Mario Bennescuitti.”

that have been made on-site by Mario - using Poxon’s meats - and served in their very own dish. “Mario is an amazing chef and we’re delighted that he’s working with us. We know that our customers will adore his delicious savoury courses, as well as his mouth-watering desserts, like Tiramisu and Italian trifle.” 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.

Poxon’s ‘Bring Your Own Dishes’ service means that customers can wow their guests with lasagne, cannelloni or meatballs 76

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

Bangers and Cash by Rob Taylor

I’ve never enjoyed the monotony of supermarket shopping: trudging the sinuous path through overcrowded aisles – front to back, slavishly following the same one-way system Ikea pioneered so long ago – which are beset with kamikaze locals armed with trolleys and baskets, all jostling for prime position at the shelves, hungry for bargains, makes me feel like a cow at a cattle market. There’s a faceless corporate hue reflecting back as you approach the identikit facade and attempt to park. Inside, staff members are rarely well informed (how can they be - there’s just so much stock), assuming you can find one to speak to. Standing in line at the checkouts is excruciating also – choose one manned by an assistant (and in turn elect to keep their job alive for the foreseeable future) or opt for a self-serve machine, either way

you’ll see your money snatched and wonder where it actually goes. It certainly doesn’t go into the local economy according to statistics - research on spending by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or mediumsized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business. Not to mention exactly where all the food comes from in the first place. Increasingly this is a hot topic as the food industry lurches from one scandal to the next. One food group often at the forefront is meat. From the horsemeat scandal to campylobacter contamination, there’s a real hunger to get to the bottom of what exactly we are eating, but where can we turn? The answer is closer than you might think: local independent butchers. For too long supermarkets have dominated. In the last 20 years

the number of butchers in the UK has shrunk to less than a third, but at last significant numbers of Brits are rejecting plastic-wrapped uniformity and taking to the local shops once more for a far more pleasant shopping experience. And we have an embarrassment of riches right on our doorstep – three of the very best local butchers can be found within this issue of Wolverhampton West. Scale and standardisation means major supermarkets can’t match the local uniqueness or choice of cuts offered by a good local butcher. And price is another reason to keep it local because invariably your local butcher is cheaper. He’s also a lot more knowledgeable – our butchers have collectively over a hundred years’ experience in the industry and have won numerous awards – he can recommend cuts to suit a budget, which are rarely available in supermarkets, and tell you how to get the most flavour when cooking. Get to know him well and he may even throw in a few free extra bangers. And at this time of year there’s even more reason to visit as Christmas sales can account for between a third and nearly two-thirds of a retailer’s annual turnover. A bad Christmas for them is a big problem for choice, so buy local to keep your options open and corporate monopoly at bay. The prospect of one less visit to a supermarket certainly leaves me feeling fit as a butcher’s dog.

wolverhampton west magazine

Allan Bennett: A Cut Above

More and more discerning people these days are turning their attention to longstanding traditions that appear to be under threat.

The family butcher - for years the mainstay of the weekly shop and sustainer of this country's morale throughout the generations - is, like so many other things, threatened by the tidal wave of changes brought about by the supermarket culture. As every good housewife used to know, there is no better friend when it comes to finding the ideal cut at the ideal price, than the aproned man or woman on the other side of the counter.

awards including The Lifetime Achievement Award (The supreme accolade.) from the Master of The Worshipful Company of Butchers is called upon to judge far and wide. Often regarded as 'The Lord Chief Justice of Meat' and endearingly known to close friends as 'Mr Sausage', Allan is always ready to help and advise those upon whom he has passed judgement, sharing his special techniques in the interests of better quality for all. It's no wonder that he is in the Guild of Q Butchers.

Allan's Codsall shop reflects his success and enthusiasm, with not only artistic displays of meat products, but with the many trophies won, together with photographs of celebrities presenting them to him. So if you want to experience the traditional delights of this family-run butchers, pop in soon and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll never want to take the easy option of grabbing meat from the supermarket shelf again.

When the butcher in question is an award winning 'champion of champions' you know right away that he's 'just the ticket'. Allan Bennett is a Codsall butcher renowned for the outstanding quality of his meat, sausages and pies. Going to bed and waking up with meat on his mind, it's not surprising that in a career spanning over half a century, Allan - as proud holder of prestigious national and international

Allan receiving one of his many awards

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.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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

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.

DERS R O S A M T IS R H C G IN N O W TA K 80

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

Keeping the th ing

we love..s.

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!

You can be sure of the best advice and service!

ER! FESTIVE GIVEAWAY - WIN YOUR CHRISTMAS ORD free. order for We are giving one lucky customer the chance to win their Christmas ber 2017 Customers placing their Christmas order by Wednesday 20th Decemplaced. order the of ts conten entire the win to draw will be entered into a as The draw will take place on Friday 22nd December 2017. All Christm the and draw the into entered orders received will qualify to be winner will be notified immediately following the draw.

Good Luck & Merry Christmas!

www.rjhipkissandsons.co.uk The www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Swan Centre, Bridgnorth Road, Wolverhampton WV6 8AE (based in the Spar store) 81

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 14 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. 82

wolverhampton west magazine

Medium bodied with a hint of sweetness and a long, lingering aftertaste

A sweet dessert wine, showing ripe apricot and honey flavours

Summer berry fruits on the nose, with a refreshing balance of light fruit and sweetness

Penny Red

engliSh RoSe Made in the traditional method, with elegant refined, nutty flavours and persistent length.

White SPaRkling Delicate fragrances, with light honey flavours, balanced with fresh acidity

late haRveSt

Made in the traditional, method. Rich and elegant, with an abundance of nutty, biscuit flavours.

Pinot chaRdonnay

Exciting dry blend combining zingy acidity with complex fruit character

tom hill meRcia www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Aromatic, refined, elegant flavours with long finish

Embraces the classic Burgundy styles with a twist of fresh strawberry & raspberry fruits

Pinot noiR

Penny Black Made in the traditional method. A light, fresh, fizz, just off-dry. Perfect for a special occasion.

RoSĂŠ SPaRkling

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

long acRe

Dark forest fruits on the nose and oak flavours create a warm, lingering finish

Rondo

Made in the traditional method. Fruity, soft fizz, with a seductive smoky finish.

Red SPaRkling Medium bodied and rounded, luscious fruit leaping from the glass

Black countRy gold 83

Davenport House

A breathtaking wedding venue in the heart of rural Shropshire

An imposing country estate, Davenport House is exclusively yours on your special day. Set amidst picturesque Shropshire countryside, this idyllic Georgian house was extensively refurbished in 2017. Make yourself at home, celebrating your wedding day surrounded by its history, warmth and elegance.

Great Hall. At the very heart of the home, this is the perfect place in which to say your vows. Alternatively, marry in another of the great rooms, or between the pillars on the front steps of Davenport House.

Entering this great house through the magnificent double doors, you might choose to say ‘I do’ in The

Luring your guests in to dine, The Drawing Room features original paneling painted in elegant ‘tea

The Great Hall leads through to the beautiful Saloon with its marquetry floor. It is here that you might enjoy welcome drinks and canapés along with breathtaking views over the lawns beyond. Outside, the terrace, lawns and lily pond provide a sublime setting in which to mingle with a glass of fizz on warmer days.

green’. And, as day turns to evening, The Great Hall becomes your dance floor, while guests might also choose to relax in The Saloon or The Drawing Room. Four luxurious en-suite bedrooms are located in the main house, while four cottages in the grounds offer self-catering accommodation. A further cottage is offered as your bridal preparation area. From intimate to lavish, and from contemporary style to the more traditional, Davenport House is your country estate and we look forward to welcoming you.

wolverhampton west magazine

D A V E N P O R T

H O U S E

ÂŠ Andrew Gale

Your exquisite Georgian c o u n t r y e s tat e An imposing country estate, Davenport House is exclusively yours on your special day. Set amidst picturesque Shropshire countryside, this idyllic Georgian house was extensively refurbished in 2017. Make yourself at home, celebrating your wedding day surrounded by its history, warmth and elegance.

d av e n p o r t h o u s e . c o . u k | 0174 6 8 6 6 3 3 3 d av e n p o r t h o u s e w e d d i n g s W o r f i e l d , S h r o p s h i r e , W V15 5 L E www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Eating Out, Entertainment, Food, Drink and Wedding Venues

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. 86

*over a 2 month period

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Clive Farm, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7DU

For a meal to remember! Special Offer

20% Off*

Evening A la Carte Menu

Your total bill When you presen t this advert

Lunch Menu 2 courses £14.99 | 3 courses £19.99 Sunday Lunch 2 courses £19.99 - 3 courses £24.99 *Offer valid Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings only with A la Carte menu for up to a max of 8 people until 30th November 2017 when you present this advert, no photocopies.

Christmas Bookings now been taken

Christmas Day 5 courses: £95.00

Boxing Day 4 courses: £37.50

Christmas Opening Times : Christmas Eve 12pm-5pm. Christmas Day 12pm-4pm. Boxing Day 12pm-5pm. 27th Dec Closed. 28th Dec Closed. 29th Dec Open. 30th Dec Open. New Year’s Day 12pm-5pm. 2nd Jan Closed. 3rd Jan Closed.

Opening Times: Wednesday to Saturday Lunch 12pm - 2.30pm (last sitting) Wednesday to Saturday Evening 6.30pm - 9.30pm (last sitting) Sunday 12 - 5pm (last sitting)

For bookings please telephone: 01902 701888 Cowshed Pattingham

@TheCowshed1 thecowshedpattingham www.thecowshedrestaurant.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk info@thecowshedrestaurant.co.uk

Making dreams come true - weddings at

There’s nothing more exciting than planning your big day and when it comes to finding the perfect venue you need to find a location that can make your dreams come true. The Mount Hotel, Tettenhall, has long been a favourite with couples keen to make their wedding day extra special and once you’ve paid a visit it’s easy to see why. Set in four acres of land, the imposing Grade 2 listed Victorian building exudes elegance. Blending modern touches with period details, the manor house offers a selection of beautiful rooms, entertainment spaces and picturesque gardens that promise to provide the perfect backdrop for every part of your special day. As Manager, Neil Wyatt explains: “Nothing can quite prepare you for the first time you step inside the Great Hall - the sheer grandeur is breath-taking.” The largest and most spectacular room at The Mount, The Great Hall offers an unbeatable setting for both the Civil Ceremony and Wedding Breakfast and can accommodate up to 120 guests. It’s not just The Great Hall that’s available to host your 88

ceremony though, there’s plenty of ideal spaces, whatever you’ve got planned. “Named after the Manders family, who built The Mount in 1865, The Manders Suite has been recently refurbished and holds up to 90 guests.” For a more intimate setting, there’s the Wightwick Suite and The Drawing Room - which is home to The Mount’s AA awarded 2 Rosette Restaurant Of course, you could always hold your special event outdoors. “We’re proud to be one of the few venues in the Midlands able to accommodate outdoor ceremonies in our beautiful gardens.” And, the hotel is able to cater for as many as 120 guests at the wedding breakfast and 150 at the evening buffet. With such a spectacular setting it’s not surprising that there are plenty of amazing photo opportunities.

Mount’s luxurious rooms ready to end their day in suitable style. “We have a selection of amazing bridal suites to choose from as well as 67-fully refurbished rooms that each have their own unique character and we offer preferential bed and breakfast rates for your guests.” And, to make sure that every one of your dreams are realised, The Mount has a team of dedicated wedding specialists that will work with you to ensure that each detail is taken care of. “We really enjoy helping couples make their special day amazing and we’re running special promotional rates for many dates in 2018,” adds Neil. With wedding open days planned for 12th November, 7th January and 18th February – between 12noon and 4pm – there has never been a better time to pay a visit and discover why The Mount Hotel will be perfect for you.

“With our stunning gardens and incredible architectural features, it’s easy to fill your wedding album with wonderful photos that’ll keep memories of your big day alive forever.” When the party is over the bride and groom, along with their special guests, can retreat to The wolverhampton west magazine

Promotional Wedding Dates Celebrate your special day at our charming Grade II Listed Manor House, for a one of special rate of £4,800. The package includes: • 50 day guests: Prosecco reception drink, three-course meal with an accompanying glass of wine and a glass of Champagne for the toasts • 100 guests: evening buffet • Complimentary Bridal Suite Applicable dates: 04/2/18, 04/3/18, 15/4/18, 13/5/18, 22/7/18. For more information please contact the team on 01902 752055.

Wedding Open Days 12 – 4 pm Sunday 12th November Sunday 7th January Sunday 18th February

The Drawing Room Our two rosette restaurant is open to the public for lunch and dinner seven days a week.

Wedding× Conference × Dining www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

wolverhampton west magazine

The Bilash, fine dining, award winning Michelin rated Indian restaurant with ample car parking (valet parking available from 6.30pm) or just a short walk from the railway station. We’re a family owned restaurant, established for 35 years and are renowned for our modern and innovative Bangladeshi and Indian food. We constantly strive to provide a dining experience to satisfy the modern discerning diner served in our recently refurbished stylish and contemporary restaurant.

Celebrate with us this Christmas 2017 Two Course Choice Starter and Main Course which is served with a choice of Naan Bread or Saffron Pilau Rice

Lunchtimes only £14.95

Evenings only £24.95

Commencing from 1st December until 24th December

Christmas and New Year’s Eve Special Menu, reservations only

∙ A la Carte Set Menu ∙ Corporate and Business Lunches ∙ Pre Theatre Package ∙ Catering & Event Management Private Dining Room (upstairs) ∙ Take-away Service (by request)

Privilege Nights on Monday and Tuesday Available October, November and January (excludes December)

Two Course Choice Starter, Main and Choice of Sundries

Only £13.95

Open: Monday to Friday 12pm to 2pm and Monday to Saturday 5.30pm to 10pm Tel: 01902 427762 / 01902 311991 or Email: table@thebilash.co.uk

www.thebilash.co.uk 2 Cheapside, Wolverhampton, WV1 1TU (opposite The Civic Centre) www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

New Chef introduces new menu at

‘The Shrew’ The Shrewsbury arms celebrated its 4th year in business this year, and has gone from strength to strength.

our new menu. At this time of year, Venison is amazing. Sourcing the very best ingredients and putting them together at the right times of year just lets the food speak for itself.

A firm favourite with villagers in Albrighton and people from further afield, “The Shrew”, as it is fondly known by customers and staff, offers something for everyone.

I have never met a chef that cooks at home like he does at work!! I am lucky enough to have someone at home that does all our family cooking but I do love doing slow cooked meats or a classic pasta dish at home, though!

The turn of the seasons into autumn has brought a fresh new menu to the Shrew. The Head Chef, Pete Freemantle, has worked over the summer months assessing what people want from the Shrewsbury Arms, and working with his team to create something special. Firm favourites have stayed, like the Steak Burger, Chicken Kebabs and Lobster, with some exciting new additions, like Venison and Shoulder of Lamb. Whether you want dinner in the restaurant or a snack in the bar, the new menu offers it all. We caught up with Pete and asked him some questions about his career in the industry: What inspired you to become a Chef Pete? I originally trained ‘Front of House’, focusing on the service side of the industry, but it was a selection of family holidays and a variety of experiments with food at home that changed my direction to becoming a Chef. How would you describe your style of cooking? I don’t have a particular ‘style’ as such, but my passion is cooking with seasonal produce. That’s why you will see things like Venison on

Do you cook at home?

Do you have a favourite recipe? I would have to say that my favourite, and one that helped me get into cooking like I have, is the classic, authentic Italian Carbonara. Whilst I love the classic elements of this dish, I do a great variation with confit pork cheek, which is A-MAZING!! How would you describe the style of the new menu you have created at the Shrewsbury Arms? I have been at the Shrew a few months now and wanted to get a feel for the dishes that are most popular before I made any changes. Like I said, seasonal produce is really important to me, so I always knew the new menu would have this as a big influence. I have tried to freshen it up, add some different dishes that I know work well together, but I have been really mindful of what people want. The Lobster is one of our best sellers – it has to stay!

Head Chef, Pete Freemantle

You can visit the Shrewsbury arms 7 days a week, where they serve food between 12 noon and 10pm, 7 days a week. They offer their full menu all day, every day, in addition to the following: Fixed Price Lunch – Monday to Friday 12 – 5pm – 2 courses @ £11.95 and 3 courses @ £14.95 Steak Night – Thursday – 6pm – 10pm – A selection of Steaks with a free bottle of wine when 2 people order off the steak menu. Friday fish & Fizz – 6-10pm– great deals on prosecco and champagne with some amazing Fish Specials. Sunday Lunch – 12-10pm – Serving Sunday Roasts and Sunday Sharing platters.

wolverhampton west magazine

FeStive SeaSon at the ShrewSbury armS chriSTmAS FAyre menu AvAilAble From mondAy 27Th november (excludes Sundays - full menu and Sunday lunch menu only)

Prices are as follows for 3 courses, Plus coffee: Monday to Saturday 12noon – 3pm: £16.95 per perSon Monday to Thursday 5pm – 10pm: £20.95 per perSon Friday & Saturday 5pm – 10pm with disco and entertainment: £24.95 per perSon Please note that this menu is only available on a pre-order basis and only guaranteed with a deposit of £10 per person. All deposits are non-refundable or transferrable. Pre-orders must be with us no later than 7 days prior to your party.

Live muSic and diSco every weekend throughout december… come and join the fun! BOOK NOW TO AVOID DIsAppOINTmeNT

Sign Up & Save Throughout January & February we are offering you 20% off our full normal menu, 7 days a week. Whether you choose to dine in the Bar or Restaurant, whether there are two of you or ten of you, we are offering you 20% off your bill, when all dishes are taken off the full normal menu.

All we ask that you do is complete the details below and hand this section to one of the team on the day you visit. Name: ...................................................................................................................................................................... TelephoNe NumBeR: ........................................................................................................................................ email addRess: ................................................................................................................................................... YouR BiRThdaY: ......... /.......... /.......... WheRe did You heaR aBouT us: ................................................................................................................ Terms & Conditions: One voucher is valid per email address/person throughout January & February 2018. The 20% discount is NOT available on the Fixed Price Mid-Week Menu, Thursday Steak Nights, Friday Fish & Fizz or Sunday Lunch. The discount is only valid when all members of the party dine off the full normal menu. Bookings are essential and the voucher must be mentioned when booking. Valid for parties of 10 or less. Valid from 2nd January 2018 - 28th February Inclusive. Excludes 14th February.

The ShrewSbury ArmS hAS A beer gArden, live muSic on FridAy & SATurdAy nighTS, Fixed price lunch menu (2 courSeS £10.95, 3 courSeS £13.95), exTenSive cockTAil And gin menu AvAilAble, giFT voucherS, SmAll Semi-privATe evenTS And more.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Christmas is in the air at

Halfpenny Green Wi n e E s t a t e

If you’re more interested in indulging yourself over the holidays, then Halfpenny Green Wine Estate’s restaurant is the place to be. Serving lunch from 12pm to 3:30pm daily, from 3rd December the kitchen will be serving a special Christmas menu, featuring a range of homemade classics. All dishes are prepared and cooked fresh upon ordering, served to your table by a team of dedicated waiting staff – the perfect way to take the stress out of the Christmas period!

Harvest is drawing to a close, the log burners are blazing and there’s a festive mood floating around at the South Staffordshire estate. Throughout December a certain someone will be visiting Halfpenny Green Wine Estate for another year… That’s right, Santa is back! This year his grotto and elves (and the big man himself, of course) can be found in WILD Zoological Park, located on-site at the end of the Craft Centre lane. Tickets to visit Santa are available from Scallywags Indoor Play, and even include entry to WILD Zoo itself! Contact Scallywags on 01384 77004 for pricing and booking. Fancy something a little cheekier over the festive period? Then perhaps The Wine Loft is for you! Located in the Wine Estate’s shop, adjacent to the restaurant, the Loft is a treasure trove of lesser-known alcoholic wonders. Halfpenny Green’s range of 14 award-winning wines, all grown and made on-site, take centre stage, filling an entire wall with reds, whites, rosés and fizz! The opposite wall plays host to a range of over 70 artisan British gins, most of which can’t be found in the supermarket. There’s plenty 94

of choice, but the friendly and knowledgeable staff are always happy to give you a quick sample to help you make your mind up – pick your poison! If you consider yourself more of a connoisseur, why not book a full tasting experience? With sessions available daily for both wine and gins, starting at just £19.95 per person, they’re the perfect gift for Christmas too!

For a truly unique experience, Halfpenny Green’s A La Carte Evenings will be taking place on 17th November and 15th December. Each night features a unique three course menu, all prepared fresh to order by the chef and his team, served to your table by waiting staff – a great way to indulge this winter. Places are limited, and available by booking only, by calling the restaurant on 01384 221122.

If you’re looking for a gift to suit someone fussy, a bespoke hamper is the perfect solution! 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. Available in a range of sizes, Christmas hampers are the best choice to suit all budgets and tastes!

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, and a whole range of festive gift options available in the shop and food in the restaurant, why head anywhere else over the holidays?

wolverhampton west magazine

Christmas Menu Available Throughout December

Served daily from 3rd - 24th December. Bookings now being taken. A family business, established in 1983, 30 acres of vines are managed by Martin and produce award-winning wines crafted by his son Clive. The acclaimed shop, restaurant, deli and tea room are run by Clive’s wife Lisa, and offer a great day out for visitors.

AWARD-WINNING ENGLISH WINES

LOCAL PRODUCE SHOP & DELI

RESTAURANT & TEA ROOMS

U P COM I NG E V E N TS

Bespoke Hamper Service Available

à la carte evening

Gift Voucher Available

A range of hampers available in the shop, with custom hampers made while you wait

17th Nov & 15th Dec

A range of vouchers available in the shop, including Tours, Gin & Wine Tastings, High Teas and much more

by booking only

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Indian Restaurant

of the Year another jewel in the crown By John Nash Good restaurants are ones that cater for kids and grumpy old codgers with equal measures of tranquillity. They are unruffled by impossible service demands and youngsters more interested in exchanging social media gossip on their iPhones than the chef’s cuisine. Of course, there’s the added essential of having excellent food on the menu and an ambience that’s inviting.

Good restaurants too, attract families, can keep up standards under pressure and win awards. A visit to Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant – I’m now in danger of being a regular – is always a creative affair for me. It’s a place where I’m continuing to rediscover my passion for Indian food and with more than 70 recipes not even listed on the menu, I’m not due to run out of choices any time soon. From simple masalas and dhansaks to more obscure dishes for foodie adventurers, the kitchen excels in bespoke creations. And this customised approach to dining obviously enjoys a loyal clientele. I’d booked a Friday evening table at seven. The front of house hospitality was predictably pleasant, as our table for two was prepared. It was early evening, every cover had been taken and the place was already buzzing with staff not only keeping diners served, but also juggling a steady stream of takeaway business.

Another jewel in this curry king’s crown

Quite why in recent years good Indian Subcontinent dishes appear to be served only in obscure hovels with questionable hygiene, I don’t know. But I do know that Rafique Miah’s family business on an ever-so-English picturesque village square has seamlessly fused

his cultural home food traditions with modern presentation. The restaurant’s clean lines and a minimalist approach to décor is strikingly at odds with the traditional hallmark of the food on offer, but it works. And it works on many different levels. Nearby was a table with a mum and her two boys. It doesn’t get much better than observing an 11-year-old mop up the last morsels of his balti with torn pieces of naan bread, oblivious to his mother’s attempt to engage him. During our night four other diners used that same table. Two couples, mature in years and with a taste for expensive wine, discussed the merits of the menu before taking the plunge with dishes they referred to as “safe.” In the distance was the obligatory restaurant bore, with a voice that could cut through granite, but he laughed a lot, albeit loudly, so I guess he too was enjoying the moment. Clearly this is a place that attracts a diverse customer base that’s unified in a celebration of fine Indian cuisine. Rafique was quick to inform me he had finally lifted the coveted Express & Star Indian Restaurant of the Year award, deposing the muchacclaimed Penn Tandoori. It’s an award his curry house was worthy wolverhampton west magazine

of years ago, so it’s heartening to know justice has at last been served with another jewel in its crown. The poppadum’s arrived speedily, were delightfully light and served with an impressive sweet onion salad, a generous selection of pickles, chutneys and a mint raita dip. Fresh – still hot – they made a lovely appetiser for what was to come. For starters I ordered tandoori lamb chops (£2.95) and my colleague, Gill, chose lamb samosas (£2.95). The chops were large and generously coated in the tandoori marinade. Too many times over the years I’ve had this dish at other restaurants and the lamb is chronically overcooked, but this dish, served with fried onions, salad garnish and a selection of dips, was just perfect with a proper crust and the meat slightly pink.

could enjoy on their journeys, and they were presented with the same attention to detail as the chef’s signature creations. It’s one of the things I love about Wombourne Tandoori – everything is focussed on engaging the customer. I really don’t mind waiting for good food, but the service we experienced was remarkable. We certainly weren’t rushed, but considering the large number of diners and the steady flow of takeaway orders, the efficiency was exceptional. For mains, Gill opted for satkora lamb (£7.65). Satkora is a famous

Bangladeshi fruit with a taste very similar to fresh lemons. The peel is extensively used in this dish, served with white boiled rice. The lamb was tender, lean and the strong flavours of lemon worked well with the recommended rice. I plumbed for a lamb tawa tikka (£6.85) with pilau rice and a sag aloo (spiced spinach and potatoes) side dish. Medium hot, the meal was flavoursome, with hints of ginger and sweet chillies and the meat not overcooked. The spinach was fresh… but who’d expect anything less in this curry king’s palace. I’ll be heading back soon…

Gil’s samosas won praise, traditionally a modest dish travellers

Wombourne Tandoori owner Rafique

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New Year’s Eve Glitz & Glamour Ball

New Year’s Eve Ball in The Earls Suite

in The Caslon Suite

£49.97 per person

£82.00 per person

Includes:

• Three course meal • Live Singer • DJ & Disco • NEW – Prosecco Bar

Includes:

• Moet champagne reception • 7 course dinner • Bacon rolls served at midnight • Live singer • DJ

Welcome in the

New Year TAKING BOOKINGS NOW COPTHORNE HOTEL MERRY HILL DUDLEY The Waterfront, Level Street, Brierley Hill, Dudley, DY5 1UR T: +44 (0) 138 448 2882 W: www.millenniumhotels.com

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Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant Established 1989

Air conditioned

Cuisine of Bengal

 FOOD HYGIENE RATING SCHEME 2011

Fully licensed Restaurant of the year West Midlands region 2016

Celebrate your Christmas Party in Style at the Perfect Venue to Dine! Christmas Day Menu now available...

5 course Festive Christmas Menu

Bookings now being taken for 6 course traditional or Bengali style Christmas Day Lunch, Christmas Office Parties and Christmas Family and Friends Get-togethers.

Available from 1st – 24th December for groups of 10 people or more

Rafique Miah welcomes you to the longest established Indian and Bangladeshi Restaurant in Wombourne Village, serving sumptuous Bangladeshi Cuisine for over 28 years.

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

“We pride ourselves on our Quality of Food, Excellent Customer Service and Customer Satisfaction.”

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

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.

Tel:

01902 324148 01902 324437

Tea or Coffee

only £14.95 per person

Bookings Only

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

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

facebook.com/wombourne.tandoori

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Prince and Princesses at The Park House

2017 has been an exciting year at the Park House, we have had lots of success with our special events but one magical event that has really taken off is the introduction of our Princesses Parties. These events have been held 3 times this year, all selling out in days! The events have been held in our Garden Suite, whilst the children have enjoyed a fairy tale experience, adults have enjoyed Afternoon Tea. These events have been a success due to the relationship with The Princess Party Company. Below is a statement from Lisa Sheldon the companies founder. The Princess Party Company have had the pleasure of providing characters for a number of Fairy tale inspired events at the Park House Hotel, Shifnal throughout 2017.

These events provide the opportunity for children and parents to meet, sing along and dance with characters from their favourite fairy tale stories in a beautiful setting while enjoying a delicious afternoon tea. From ‘Beauty and Friends’ to a ‘Frozen Festive Ball’ hosted by the Ice Queen herself, these events have proven to be hugely popular with many selling out within days of the event going on sale. The events which last two hours are an extravaganza of timeless musical classics, singing performances and fun, they create memories that will last a lifetime.

grounds truly recreate an authentic backdrop to welcome princesses and their special guests. The team at the Parkhouse are always courteous and professional. We also work with the Park House to offer private children’s parties for any size. 2018 promises to be an exciting time, with additional new characters joining the line-up and further fairytale events planned throughout the year, we will also be introducing our ‘Intergalactic Events’ which will feature Star Wars and superhero characters.

The Park House Hotel is the perfect setting for these events, the elegant country house with its ornate chandeliers and picturesque

Our next event is our

Frozen Festive Ball held on Saturday 16th December 2017, 12-2pm. Adults £14.95 & Children £12.95. Dates for 2018 coming soon. Please contact our events team if you wanted to book a private birthday for your own Princesses and Princes!

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www.parkhousehotelshifnal.co.uk

Christmas Party Nights Available throughout December 2017 Starting on 2nd December - 23rd December

10th December – 80s Party Night 12th December – Rod Stewart Tribute 13th December – Live Band and Disco 17th December – 90s Party Night New date added due to Popular Demand! 6th December - Ed Sheeran Tribute

Prices start from £25pp

Includes Disco, 4 course festive menu, in house photographer, close hand magician and the Christmas festivities you love!

A Christmas to Remember! For bookings or further details please call 01952 460128 or email events@parkhousehotel.net The Park House Hotel, www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Park Street, Shifnal, Telford, TF11 9BA

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kick-off the part y season in st yle

Royston Blythe Team in Marbella

The Royston Blythe team kicked-off the party season ahead of time when they closed the doors of the salon early and headed off to Marbella to enjoy a sunsoaked weekend. Keen to celebrate the success of the past year and reward their hard-working staff, Royston and Nick decided a weekend of partying was the best team building exercise there is. As Nick explains: “We’ve had an amazing year and have achieved loads of competition success thanks to our fantastic team at the salon, so we really wanted to celebrate and reward their hard work, loyalty and outstanding commitment.” 104

So, Royston Blythe’s thirty-strong team of staff - from both the Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury salons – donned bright red logoed t-shirts and travelled together to Birmingham airport on Saturday 30th September, ready to sip cocktails when they arrived at Costa Del Sol’s exclusive marina, Puerto Banus. Looking as glamorous as ever when they touched-down, the multi-awardwinning team of hairdressers stopped to pose for photos before boarding the coach that would take them to their luxury accommodation.

Getting ever more into the party spirit, the group then made their way to Marbella’s famous Red Party, which is hosted by the Nikki Beach Club, to make use of their exclusive VIP tickets.

Midlands Hairdressers of the Year Nick Malenko & Sophie Beattie

wolverhampton west magazine

Royston Blythe Team at Nikki Beach

After enjoying plenty of delicious food, the group kept the drinks flowing as they danced the night away. “It was an absolute pleasure to take the team to Marbella and properly reward them for their hard work – we’re very lucky to have them.” Over the past twelve months, Royston Blythe Salon Group has won a number of national trophies and once again the talented team has been shortlisted as finalists in the high-profile British Hairdressing Awards, which will see Nick, Sophie, Royston and Charles represent both salons at the London-based event. “We’ve been in business for many years and believe that the success of our salon is driven

by a passionate, committed and talented team.” Royston Blythe has a unique and in-depth education programme that serves to educate younger members of the team by providing them with the foundations they need to achieve excellence in hairdressing. “The programme also works to inspire, motivate and help even our most senior staff push the boundaries to ensure that their skills and knowledge is constantly evolving.” And it’s not just an extremely talented team that are waiting at the salon, there’s an unbeatable atmosphere too. “All of our salon guests comment on the wonderful atmosphere

when they visit us. Yes, we’re a luxury hair salon and produce outstanding hairdressing but we’re also passionate about welcoming guests into a warm and friendly environment and we believe that a happy, motivated team that are full of zest and energy is the key to this,” adds Nick. Feeling rejuvenated thanks to their weekend spent in the sun, the team are back in the salon and ready and waiting to create some amazing looks for their clients this December. So, if you’ve got a special party to attend then there’s never been a better time to book in at the salon and see for yourself just what the Royston Blythe team have to offer. What’s more, you can even catch-up on some Christmas shopping by stocking-up on professional hair product gift packs or vouchers – it’s an easy way to delight everyone on your gift list.

Royston Blythe 36 Bridgnorth Road, Compton, Wolverhampton WV6 8AE Tel: 01902 751720 email: info@roystonblythe.co.uk www.roystonblythe.co.uk Royston Blythe @RoystonBlythe Nicholas Tucker & Jade Stephenson, Royston Blythe, Shrewsbury, winners of L’oreal Colour Trophy

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

RoystonBlytheOfficial

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Aristocats Autumn/W inter

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2017

wolverhampton west magazine

• Aldo Martins • Basler • Claudia C • Eugen Klein • Faber • Frank Walder • Georgedé • Joseph Ribkoff • Just White • Michaela Louisa • Olsen • Oui • Rabe

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

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

Tel: 01902 344003

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Celebrating 10 years in business

L-R: Joanna, Stephanie, Hannah, Catarina

It’s been 10 years since Hannah White and Joanna Perry opened their Aldersley-based hair salon, Zygo, and the business partners are incredibly proud of what they’ve achieve over the years. As Hannah, explains: “We’re absolutely delighted to be celebrating Zygo’s 10th anniversary this year and we’re really keen to say a big thank you to all of our loyal clients who have supported us over the past decade.” To celebrate the milestone, the salon was treated to a fantastic new-look makeover that was revealed to clients when Hannah and Joanna invited them to enjoy a special evening event. “We styled the new-look salon to be glitzy and glamorous and couldn’t wait to show it off to our clients when we held our event on the 10th October.” The clients got to have a look at the renovated salon whilst enjoying a glass of fizz and raising money for a very worthy cause. 110

“We’ve always got involved in charity work and we wanted to raise funds for Macmillan, which is a charity that’s close to both of us,” says Joanna. Hannah and Joanna worked hard to ensure the success of the business right from start when they first opened their doors in 2007. “Anyone setting-up in business back then was taking a risky step as the recession was just beginning. We’d both invested heavily in the salon and were determined to make it a success, despite the economic climate.” Providing their clients with a professional and friendly service, combined with the latest colouring and cutting techniques, has proved to be a winning formula. “We have established a really loyal client-base over the years. We’re a family-friendly salon and take care of clients of all ages and we like to think that the salon has a relaxing and welcoming feel,” adds Hannah. Despite their loyal clientele, Hannah and Joanna are always keen to welcome new clients and are constantly updating their products and services to stay on-top of the latest trends.

“We really enjoy creating on-trend freehand colour looks for our clients which are very popular at the moment,” says Joanna. Zygo introduced Olaplex at the salon earlier this year which has proved to be incredibly popular. “Olaplex works to repair and protect hair from chemical, thermal and mechanical damage and can be used as a stand-alone treatment or added to a colour - the results are amazing.” With Christmas just around the corner, the team at Zygo are busy creating fabulous party hair looks. “We love styling glamorous looks for our clients and really enjoy the build-up to Christmas,” adds Joanna. And Hannah and Joanna are lucky to be supported by loyal hair stylist Catarina Coglianese and junior Stephanie Lavender. “We make a great team at the salon and we all work really well together,” explains Hannah. So, whether you’ve got a special party to attend or maybe just fancy a new colour look this winter, why not give Zygo a try to today? wolverhampton west magazine

Zygo HAIR SALON

To celebrate our 10 year anniversary we are offering:

✁

Friendly, professional, modern hairdressers offering all aspects of cutting, colouring and styling.

15%* OFF ALL OUR HAIR SERVICES

✁

*Offer only valid with this voucher until 30th November 2017 when spending £20 or more. Not in conjunction with any other.

Open Tuesday to Thursday: 9am-5pm Friday: 9am-7pm Saturday: 8.30am-4pm

01902 755651 www.zygohair.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

94b Blackburn Avenue Claregate Wolverhampton WV6 9LQ

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Renew your smile with

Custom made Dentures COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION

At Parkdale Clinic we offer quality patient-focused dental care in a modern and supportive environment. Our satisfied patients have found a renewed confidence after undergoing treatment with us and it is our privilege to find a solution to many problems traditional dentistry has failed to remedy.

Call us today and discover what we could do for you:

01902 420654

Parkdale Dental & Implant Clinic | 82 Tettenhall Road | Wolverhampton WV1 4TF www.parkdaledentalandimplantclinic.co.uk | parkdale@portmanhealthcare.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine

Looking after

your eyes At Taylor Biddle Opticians, looking after your eyes is our top priority.

Good vision is essential throughout life. During the first few years of life it is important to ensure that children have the opportunity to achieve their full visual, educational and social potential. Obstacles to vision such as squints and refractive errors (long and short-sightedness) during the early years of life can lead to amblyopia (“lazy” eye) which, unless detected and treated leads to irreversible visual impairment in the affected eye. Therefore it’s essential for all children to have an eye exam before they start school the cost of which is covered by the NHS.

is perfectly natural, albeit annoying and spectacles often become more necessary as we get older. Unfortunately, not all problems with the eyes are correctable with spectacles, and a thorough examination of the eyes can detect problems which may need referral on to a specialist. Early detection is the key to preventing sight loss. Did you know that we can lose up to 40% of our vision before we may notice? At Taylor Biddle Opticians, we offer extended eye examinations which include 3D OCT scans of the back of the eye, sometimes requiring dilation of the pupils. These scans are very detailed and are not to be confused with “free” photos offered by many high street multiples. The results of the scan are analysed and explained by Optometrist so that diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration can be detected much sooner than the normal eye exam getting you the treatment you need fast. Good vision is essential for enjoying good quality of life.

During school years and forward into working life, clear, comfortable vision allows us to perform at our best. There are now far more challenges to the visual system because of our dependence on computers/tablets/mobile phones, so much so that even a small correction combined with a good antireflection coating on the lenses can bring huge relief. In our 40s, even if we have been lucky enough to not need to wear spectacles or contact lenses, we find that our eyes change and we start to need extra magnification close up. This change (presbyopia)

& many more Your Local Family Opticians Full eye examinations Ocular health checks The latest eye scanning OCT technology Visual Dyslexia Colorimetry assessments New range of Hugo Boss frames in stock

SPECIAL OFFER:

80% off second pair of lenses with every purchase of premium varifocal – plus £100 off selected Lindberg frames. (T&C’s apply, offer ends 31st December 2017)

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

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- Ready for the party season “We can create gorgeous looks for all lengths of hair. Curls cost just £15, a hair-up £25 and a curled and plaited look costs £20.” So you can take the stress out of getting ready, avoid a bad hair day and be sure that your hair will look amazing for a great price.

The team at Salon 27 are ready and waiting to transform their clients with a stunning new hair look, ready for the party season. As salon owner, Jodie Mason explains: “We absolutely love this time of year because our clients have plenty of parties to attend, so they want a really glamorous style.” Whether it’s a fabulous hair-up look or lots of loose curls, the Salon 27 team can style it.

The salon are always committed to offering their clients the best value prices, that’s why Jodie runs special offers every month. “We always have different offers running each month - for women, men and kids.”

Christmas shopping whilst you’re at the salon too. “Our Christmas shop is now open and we’ve got fabulous Wella and Paul Mitchell gift packs. We also stock Cloud Nine and Wella hair straighteners.” 2017 has been a great year for us, we’ve been incredibly busy and our senior stylists, Nikki and Laura, have created some beautiful work.” So, whatever you’ve got planned for the party season, make sure that you pay a visit to Salon 27 first.

And Salon 27 will be open until 8pm for most of December to accommodate the extra demand for appointments. “We’re booking appointments now for the festive season, so make sure you book yours early, so that you don’t miss out.” There are plenty of great gifts on offer, so you can do some

Special offer for all new clients

unisex salon

CUT & FINISH ONLY £20

November Offer

CHrISTmaS HaIr ProdUCT GIFT PaCkS oFFerS December Offer

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Half price colour every Wed & Thurs with selected stylists excluding December. Kids cut offer every Monday 3pm-5pm.

To book an appointment please call on:

(01902) 836565 www.salon27wolverhampton.co.uk

Find us on Facebook: Salon 27 unisex hairsalon. 65 Wakeley Hill, Penn, Wolverhampton, WV4 5BA

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Opening times:

Monday 9am – 5pm Wednesday 9am – 8pm Thursday 9am – 8pm Friday 9am – 6pm Saturday 8.30am to 4.30pm Closed Tuesday and Sunday

wolverhampton west magazine

Dermapen at

Cosmetique

The team of experts at Wolverhamptonbased Aesthetic Clinic, Cosmetique, have been busy helping clients take care of all manner of beauty concerns using the latest - and best techniques and products.

“The procedures we offer are carefully researched, backed by medical evidence and carried out by professionals.” Dermapen has proved to be an incredibly popular treatment at the clinic, with clients being delighted with the results.

for treating hard to reach areas around the eyes, nose and lips.”

“Dermapen is a revolutionary micro-needling treatment that works to tighten, lift and rejuvenate the skin, promoting natural collagen production with very little downtime.”

Have you been Cosmetique’d? Cosmetique Aesthetic Clinic is a GP led private clinic, all treatments are carried out by qualified staff.

The treatment is ideal for treating fine lines and wrinkles, minimising pores, dealing with surgical or acne scars as well as treating pigmentation and stretch marks.

Our practitioners are able to carry out anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers, other procedures are also available.

“As the Dermapen device is in the form of a pen, it is perfect

Qualified staff can do laser hair removal, 3D lipo, skin tightening, stretch mark, cellulite removal and many more skin treatments.

And, there is little epidermal damage when compared to the Dermaroller, which means there is minimal discomfort for the client. “A lot of people have the treatment a day or two before a night out, party or function they’re attending to ensure they look their best.” A course of three Dermapen treatments are recommended and the results are sure to impress. Contact the clinic today to find our more.

Throughout November and December 2017 Cosmetique are offering a course of 3 treatments that usually cost £150 per treatment for only £99 per treatment.

Cosmetique is not a beauty salon, so clients can rest assured that when they receive treatment they’re in capable hands.

570 Penn Road Penn Wolverhampton WV4 4HU

Clinically led with all procedures carried out by qualified staff New! LED Opera Mask (skin rejuvenation) as used by

celebrities, only available at Cosmetique for the West Midlands area.

Special offer until end of December 2017 £150 Now £49 • • • • • •

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)

Gift Vouchers r available fo s a m st ri h C

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 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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P e r f e c t

Par ty Style By Helen Taylor

The party season is officially here and whether you’ve got just one important gathering to attend or a diary full of special dates, you’ll find plenty of dazzling dresses to choose from on the high street this December. Model wears - Black Sequin Dress– see in store or online for prices. Wallis

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In fact, with so many gorgeous party looks on offer it’s hard to decide whether to make a statement with sequins, exude glamour with an embellished style or choose a little black dress for a classic chic look. Whatever you decide, make sure that you enjoy looking fabulous at every one of those festive get-togethers this Christmas. Black and Silver Sequin Dress – see in store or online for prices. Wallis

wolverhampton west magazine

Embellished Metallic Flapper Dress £150 Miss Selfridge

Colbalt Blue Dress £39 Miss Selfridge

Black Dress £49 Star by Julian MacDonald at Debenhams

Black Lace Shift Dress £55 Wallis

Chandelier Earrings £12 Oasis

Clutch Bag £75 Dune

Loop Detail Sandals £65 Lipsy One Shoulder Sequin Dress £69 Miss Selfidge

Red Dress £55 River Island

Gold Dress £99 Miss Selfridge www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine

Trifocal Lenses

Allow Clear Vision Without Glasses

Mr Ilango in clinic at Nuffield Health

Patient Mr Richard Banks can now see clearly and will never need glasses, having undergone trifocal lens cataract surgery on both eyes at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital. Uniquely the latest generation trifocal intra-ocular lenses give clear 20/20 vision at all distances, with minimal glare and few halo effects at night. Until a few years ago, artificial lenses used during cataract surgery could correct vision for one or two distances only. So this same person could have their artificial lens adjusted for one focusing power, usually for distance vision, but would still need to pick up reading glasses to see up close. The latest generation lenses are called trifocals because they also offer clear vision at middle distances, which is generally anything at arm’s length. This is in addition to providing near and far vision. Uniquely trifocal lenses allow a person to switch effortlessly between all three distances; near distance - for reading, long distance and the in between distances.

Vision is clear at all those points, which is something the previous multifocal lenses couldn’t achieve. Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon Mr Balasubramaniam Ilango, who performs 2000 lens implants every year, is delighted with the outcome for his patient and explains, “Mr Banks’ eye sight was deteriorating due to cataracts. I operated on his first eye 18 months ago to remove the cataract and implant the trifocal lens and I was extremely pleased with the result. Recently he returned for the same surgery on the second eye and now is unlikely to need glasses at all. His vision is clear for intermediate as well as distance and near vision, so he is able to switch naturally between all distances. With tri-focal lenses, his sight has been restored to near perfect high resolution views, under all light conditions.”

things, like being able seeing the football score in the top corner of the TV screen again from across the room and also to read menus in poor light in restaurants, makes a huge difference.” The average age for people having tri-focal implants is 55. Prices per eye for tri-focal lens implants, only available privately, start at £2900. It is worth noting that they remove the need for glasses permanently, so there will be a future saving on the regular repeat expense of glasses that are no longer needed. At Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital, in addition to specialist eye surgeon Mr Ilango, other ophthalmologists specialising in high volume cataract surgery include Mr Kam Balaggan and Mr Bal Manoj.

Richard Banks, 52, who travelled to the private hospital in Tettenhall, Wolverhampton from Newport, Shropshire, says, “It’s brilliant to have the freedom from ever needing to wear glasses. My restored sight is now crisp and clear and the recovery time for the second eye was even quicker. Being a sporty outdoor person, it is great to be able to see in 3D all the way to the horizon! Even little

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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NO PAIN – NO GAIN…

Pain is a vital message for you to stop and check out what is going on with your body. Once you have done what your unconscious mind wanted you to do – take notice and be aware, the pain message isn’t necessary. So why do we often end up with chronic pain? This is ‘old’ pain and is like a message that just hasn’t been switched off. Rather like a nagging child, old pain just keeps on and on, repeatedly telling you that you have a problem. New pain is very important and we need to be ready to hear that message and take notice quickly. Unfortunately, if you suffer from chronic (continued and persistent) pain, new pain messages may be missed or ignored.

Imagine what it would be like if we could just switch that old pain message off? Well, I recently attended a very interesting course, rather obviously called, OldPain2Go! Now, for those who have been following my articles, you may have noticed that I have a very open mind and I am extremely curious, but even I was sceptical about this claim! With my knowledge of the power of the mind, I know that it’s possible to achieve remarkable things with focused thought. I have ‘anesthetised’ my own arm and hand, and other peoples (with permission!!) making it possible to stick pins in

without pain or discomfort. This was through hypnosis.

When I turned up at this course, I was interested to find that two of the six people attending were doctors. The man responsible for this intriguing methodology is Steven Blake. He has taken his experience as a hypnotherapist, and his knowledge of the body and the unconscious mind, and created a very simple technique that gets the clients unconscious mind to just ‘switch off’ the old pain message. After our technical training and teaching of the methodology, Steven demonstrated the process on a lady who had suffered with fibromyalgia for many years. People with this incredibly debilitating disease will often find that traditional medicine is ineffective or has unpleasant side effects. The lady was, understandably, rather sceptical, but she was also very clear that she had had enough of feeling like she did and wanted to be free of the pain. Steven went through the process, finishing with a lovely relaxation. On opening her eyes, the lady gave herself a bit of a wiggle about, then stood up and walked around. Her face was a picture! She was free of the crippling pain she had come with. We were rather amazed and more than a little emotional. He explained that this was one of the more complex

conditions he works with, but arthritis responds very well to this process, as well as chronic back pain. I returned from my training, filled with excitement and ready to use this incredible new system. Since I attended the OldPain2Go training, I have been teaching my clients just how powerful their unconscious mind is, and when they use this process, they can take control of their own body and create a new line of communication between their conscious and unconscious mind. I’ve used this method on emotional pain as well as physical pain. It gives clients control and it’s proving very popular and I love having it as another tool in my specially chosen toolbox. If you’re curious about this new process, take a look at my website and some of the video testimonials.

“I aim to help you quickly gain skills and techniques that will empower you to clear your ‘Gremlins’ and move you towards a bright future. I use a mix of new science-based processes and well established systems, suited to your own unique situation.” Sue Wilkinson

Some of the issues I work with: Anxiety • Stress • Phobias • Self Sabotage • Limiting Beliefs • Fear • Low Self Esteem • Weight Management I run ‘at home’ VIP courses for weight management and my Platinum one to one fast track course for people with limited free time. I am available as a speaker for events and fundraisers and I hold regular courses and Wellness Yoga days throughout the year.

Find out more at mindbabble.co.uk

Contact me for a FREE consultation call & see how I can help you.

mindbabble.co.uk 120

Phone: 07980 541271 email: change@mindbabble.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine

Real people, real support, real results Struggling with your weight? I too struggled with my weight but thanks to Cambridge Weight Plan and the support of my Consultant I have reached my weight-loss goal.

CONTACT ME TODAY AND LET ME SUPPORT YOU • No consultation or joining fee! • One-to-one private weekly Consultations • 100% Support • Available Monday to Friday 9am-10pm (weekend appointments also available) • Mobile visits available • Private Facebook Support Group Highly Commended Consultant 2015/16

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Cover Wolverhampton and all surrounding areas

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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

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

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CHIROPODY & PODIATRY CLINICS

HCPC/STATE REGISTERED

Tom Casey BSc (Hons), MCHS, SRCH Margaret Kennedy BSc (Hons), MCHS, SRCH

Treatments for: Nails, callus, corns, verrucas Diabetic & arthritic feet Heel and forefoot pain Ingrown toenails & nail surgery Functional & biomechanical issues Conditions needing orthotics/insoles

• Friendly Personal Service • Medical Centre Facilities • Secure Parking • Disabled Access • Centrally located • Home Visits Available Presentations & talks are available to interested groups.

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Park Avenue Clinic 13a Park Avenue Wolverhampton WV1 4AH For an appointment or to book a home visit please call Tom Casey on 07828 613165 or 01902 833426 For other surgery appointments please call or visit: Six Ways Clinic 24 Birmingham Road Walsall WS1 2LT 01922 622521 Albrighton For home visits, please call: 01902 754377 or 07917 520199

wolverhampton west magazine

TeTTenhall RemembeRs

Tettenhall Rotary Club are launching a new fund raising initiative revolving around the lights that illuminate the trees on Tettenhall Upper Green over the Christmas period. Working in collaboration with the City Council and local company Peter James the estate agents, they will be seeking members of the public to dedicate a light situated in the trees to the memory of a loved one. It is proposed that members of the public will be asked to donate a minimum of £5 to dedicate a light and have a message of remembrance displayed on the large TV screen situated in Peter James’ window for the duration that the lights are illuminated. All the proceeds from this initiative will be donated to Compton Hospice. Application forms can be collected in person from Peter James the estate agents and can also be downloaded from the Tettenhall Rotary Club dedicated website

www.tettenhallremembers.org.uk

WOLVERHAMPTON HIP

O Night Divine

Saturday December 9th Monday December 11th Guests

Saturday: Jo Welch Monday: Jacob Kholi Penn United Reformed Church (WV4 5QF)

7.30pm £7.50 Tickets: 01902 652992 01902 652992 Penn Singers Charity Fund supporting WINGS for these concerts PENN SINGERS is a Registered Charity 503894. Member of the National Association of Choirs

& 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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Local company

gives sickle cell charity a home

A healthcare organisation is celebrating the start of an initiative which has seen it reach out and support a local charity by offering use of its unoccupied office space. Following a recent re-organisation of its Head Office, Wolverhamptonbased Health Cash Plan provider Paycare has welcomed The Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia Support Project through its doors, providing the first floor of its premises in George Street to the team, where the Charity now operates. The Support Project team was originally based in St John’s Square in Wolverhampton, but with the lease on their building due to expire, the organisation approached Paycare to ask them to consider offering them some space, to enable them to relocate. The Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia Support Project promotes public and professional awareness of 124

the inherited blood disorders affecting haemoglobin, the oxygen carrying substance in the red blood cells. Its team of nine operate as a vital health provider in Wolverhampton offering services which include counselling, support, screening, training and awareness raising activities. Sutinder Herian, Project Coordinator at the Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Support Project said: “We’re extremely grateful to Kevin Rogers, CEO at Paycare and the rest of the team for their generosity, by providing us with the space to be able to continue our important work with the local affected communities. Most charities are facing considerable challenges, as public funding are making cuts to valuable and vital services for individuals, families and those with long-term health conditions.

Kevin Rogers, CEO of Paycare, explained: “We’re delighted to be able to support The Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia Support Project by providing space for them to operate from, so they can continue to carry out the vital work that they do to promote public and professional awareness of Sickle Cell and related blood disorders. We’re passionate about supporting charities as part of our commitment to our local community.” A well-respected and dedicated Health Cash Plan provider, Paycare has helped individuals and families protect themselves against everyday healthcare costs and bills for over 140 years.

“Kevin and the whole of the Paycare team have been extremely accommodating and have made the arduous task of moving offices much more manageable.” wolverhampton west magazine

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School technology experts INVEST IN APPRENTICES

Wolverhampton IT expert Concero has taken on six new apprentice engineers to bolster its services within schools. The business, which is on the cusp of celebrating its 10th anniversary, was set up by directors Bradley Clegg and James Morris, to provide tailor-made technology products and services to schools in Wolverhampton and Staffordshire. Almost a decade on the company, based in Newbridge, has grown year on year and now employs more than 30 staff – all experts in the field of IT. And it has just invested in six young apprentices who took up their posts at the start of the new school term and are already supporting schools across the city. Bradley said: “Concero is a growing company, we recently won a big contract at a local school and it has enabled us to invest in these young people. It is important to 126

us that we invest in our future and that investment is in the next generation of IT engineers. “We believe in investing in talent and are delighted to have taken on six apprentice engineers. It is essential in our business to bring young minds in because the very nature of IT demands engineers who are up-to-speed with new software, equipment and skills.” Concero works with primary, secondary and multi-academy trusts and it strives to meet each type of school’s specific needs. It holds the belief that technology should positively enhance learning and not be an extra burden to reduce learning time. And it offers a whole array of technology solutions to schools, which address key DfE/OFSTED regulation, budget cuts, GDPR, e-safety and safeguarding and most importantly, positively enhance learning environments for schools. As a highly reputable company, it has recently gained ISO accreditation, which reinforces

its quality of service and safeguarding of its data James added: “We pride ourselves on our excellent relationships with schools. We understand the teaching day is busy and our job is to make the IT bit as smooth and as effective as possible. We like to think we are part of a school’s extended team.” The company receives continual positive feedback from head teachers like Kathryn Jackson, at St Michael’s Primary School in Tettenhall, who said; “The support from Concero has been invaluable. As head teachers we have a great deal to manage and getting support from experts who are not only IT specialists but also appreciate the challenges unique to schools means we have been able to put a bespoke development plan in place which suits the school’s needs and aims over the next three years. They are great to work with and quickly grasp our needs and what we can afford to do to achieve the best for our students.” wolverhampton west magazine

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The Berriman Eaton Team

Richard Eaton MNAEA Associate

Melanie Sellman MNAEA Associate When David Berriman left his previous firm in 1990 and started his own business he had one assistant and twelve properties which were spread thinly across the office windows in Albrighton to give the impression of a large business.

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Katie Berriman ANAEA Sales Negotiator

Beth Blackwell ANAEA Sales Negotiator

These pages show how far that original business has grown to become a

Ellie Eaton Sales Negotiator

Sarah Edwards MNAEA Sales Negotiator

Charlie Fox-Davies Lettings Negotiator

Dianne Hennessy ANAEA Administrator

Oliver Jones Lettings Negotiator

Emily Lewis Sales Negotiator

Nick Berriman LLB FNAEA MARLA Director major player in the property market in this area. No business can prosper without a talented, loyal and hardworking staff and this is a good moment to pay tribute to all who grace this feature and thank them for their efforts in their own particular specialities. Not everyone can be in the limelight but every cog in the wheel contributes to the end product. David became a consultant in 2005 and his younger son Nick, who had joined him in 1998 after completing a law degree and some years training in London, then took over the business. Caroline Eaton had joined David at Walker Barnett and Hill as a trainee when she was 17 and had shown so much promise that she was made manager of their Perton office two years later â&#x20AC;&#x201C; thought at the time to be the youngest estate agency office manager in the country. After WB&H sold to General Accident

Jane McGuire Administrator

wolverhampton west magazine

Caroline Eaton MNAEA MARLA Director in 1987 she stayed on for some years and then founded Eaton Estates in 1994 and in 2006 the two firms amalgamated to create Berriman Eaton. Some amalgamations work and others donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. This one has and the firm has grown over the years with offices in Tettenhall, Bridgnorth and Wombourne now selling properties of all types and price ranges. In addition the rental department has seen rapid growth with over 300 properties in management and an average of 25 being let each month. Associate Director Andy Roberts is in charge with 4 staff and this is now an important part of the business.

Andy Roberts MNAEA MARLA Associate Director

David Berriman FRICS Consultant

Bruce Attwood MNAEA Associate

Vicky Blakemore MNAEA MARLA Sales Negotiator

Linda Davis LLB MNAEA Sales Progression Manager

Thirteen of those pictured here have completed over ten yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; service and although the business has grown so much the roots of the original family businesses are still there with three Berrimans and three Eatons still involved. With knowledge and experience from the older members and energy and enthusiasm from the youngsters the future looks to be in good hands.

Qualifications are important and we have two Law Degrees, one Chartered Surveyor, fifteen Members of the National Association of Estate Agents and four members of the Association of Residential Letting Agents.

Lynn Glover MNAEA Sales Negotiator

Patricia Gooding Property Manager

Sophie Guest Lettings Negotiator

Carol Pilsbury ANAEA Sales Negotiator

Katie Rumble Sales Negotiator

Caroline Snape ANAEA Sales Manager

Sarah Willis Sales Negotiator

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Preparing for the ‘biggest challenge’

of a generation In the West Midlands area, there are almost 69,000 people living with dementia, and it is predicted that this figure will rise to over 90,000 by 2021.

Yet many people are failing to ensure they are prepared for the possibility, leaving families to apply to the Court of Protection to help their loved one at a time of need. Julie Burn, Lead Partner of FBC Manby Bowdler’s Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning Team and one of the leading Court of Protection specialists in the West Midlands, explains how legal advice can help. The rising rate of dementia is undoubtedly one of the biggest challenges of our generation. While many people are taking extra steps to protect themselves from developing the disease – keeping active and living healthier lifestyles, for example - not enough people are preparing their personal affairs to prevent any future illness affecting decisions on their finances or future care. Drawing up a Lasting Power of Attorney is one of the most sensible things – this involves appointing a loved one or close friend to act for you if you become unable to manage your own affairs.

But if you don’t have an LPA, as many people don’t, the Court of Protection can appoint a deputy to act for you. The Court of Protection is something people are often blissfully unaware of until they need to use it. It was created under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and has jurisdiction over the property, financial affairs and personal welfare of people who lack the mental capacity to make decisions for themselves. Dealing with the Court of Protection can be daunting and confusing for people who are unfamiliar with its workings but statistics show that more and more people have to use its services. Between January and March 2017, it made 8,911 orders under the Mental Capacity Act, a 36 per cent increase on the same quarter in 2016. Almost half (48 per cent) of the orders related to the appointment of a deputy for property and affairs.

My colleagues and I have acted for many people over the years and we understand how distressing and difficult this process can be, at a time that is often emotionally difficult too. We work closely with our clients to ensure they remain involved in the decision making process and understand what is being done on their behalf. Having a professional adviser as deputy helps relieve family and friends of some of the burden and they can then focus on their caring role. This can be especially appropriate when following a serious accident a large compensation award needs to be managed and decisions on spending to adapt or purchase property need to be made. For more advice, contact Julie on 01902 392416 or email j.burn@fbcmb.co.uk.

A family member or friend can apply to the court to act as your deputy or a lawyer can be a professional deputy for you if noone is able to act in that capacity.

Julie Burn

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And it’s not just people with dementia who may need a deputy – that’s why we work closely with our clinical negligence and serious injury and community care teams. wolverhampton west magazine

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Learn to Swim with South Staffordshire’s Award Winning Swim Academy What’s more, those who enrol get: • FREE swimming for those that pay by Direct Debit • FREE Success Tracker • Online Home Portal to allow parents to track their child’s progress easily • One to one lessons available on request (extra charge)

South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres have recently been awarded the STAmark Gold which is an STA accreditation recognising high standards of swimming teaching. The swim academy offers: • High quality swimming tuition at affordable prices • Lessons from 3yrs up to adults • Beginners and non-swimmers to advanced standards • Good teacher/child ratios • Lessons run throughout the whole year to ensure continual progression • Assistants in the water to aid weaker classes and give additional support for swimmers

FREE Child Swim Pass Voucher valid until Saturday 30th December 2017

(subject to opening) Voucher offers 1 free swim during a public session ~ Voucher cannot be redeemed against swimming lessons ~ Child to parent ratios apply in the water – please contact reception for full details and for swimming times ~ 1 voucher per person, per offer ~ Voucher must be presented at reception Name……………………................................................................... Postcode……………………... Date………....................…………… Leisure Centre…………………...................................................... Wolverhampton West Magazine November/December 2017

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AFFORDABLE FITNESS WITH SOUTH STAFFORDSHIRE COUNCIL’S LEISURE CENTRES

LEISURE SOUTH STAFFORDSHIRE’S

AWARD WINNING SWIM ACADEMY OFFERS HIGH QUALITY SWIMMING TUITION AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

• Lessons from 18 months to adults • Beginners and non-swimmers to advanced standards • Badge schemes to provide continual encouragement and rewards • Lessons run throughout the year to ensure continual progression • One to one lessons available on request • Good teacher/child ratios with assistants in the water to support weaker swimmers • FREE public swimming included if you pay by Direct Debit

CHESLYN HAY LEISURE CENTRE CODSALL LEISURE CENTRE PENKRIDGE LEISURE CENTRE WOMBOURNE LEISURE CENTRE www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Wolverhampton

Grammar School

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. 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 school and Sixth Form college in the country, but students 134

also need to demonstrate a wider set of skills beyond the classroom. 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 Tuesday, 21st November 2017 from 6.30pm, visit the website www.wgs.org.uk or speak with our Admissions Registrar, Jane Morris or email jam@wgs-sch.net for further information.

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

WOLVERHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL JUDGED “EXCELLENT” IN ALL AREAS BY THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS INSPECTORATE

Looking for the best independent education? With outstanding GCSE and A Level results, there is only one choice.

Year 3 Open Day

Saturday 11th November, 10am-1.30pm

Sixth Form Open Evening Tuesday 21st November, 6.30pm

Register now for the Year 7 Entrance Test on Saturday 13th January for September 2018 entry. To arrange a guided tour or to learn more about registering your child for September 2018, please contact Mrs Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar tel 01902 422939 or email jam@wgs-sch.net “This is a remarkable school. The atmosphere we encountered as we walked round with a succession of delightful guides was smilingly friendly. There is a real feeling of happiness.” The Good Schools Guide

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01902 421326 www.wgs.org.uk Wolverhampton Grammar School Compton Road Wolverhampton WV3 9RB

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Triumph

for St. Dominic’s Grammar School and girls only in the Senior School, enabling them to flourish and reach their full potential. Passionate and committed staff, led by Peter McNabb the Head of School, ensures that the academic education provided, includes extra-curricular activities that explore, challenge and nurture all pupils’ talents. St. Dominic’s Grammar School is founded on excellent pastoral care on an individual basis and the school has a strong community ethos and drive to succeed.

St. Dominic’s Grammar School is going from strength to strength following significant investment from a local businessman. Having registered for Grammar School status, it has launched the 11-plus examination for its preparatory pupils. Whilst situated in the idyllic village of Brewood, easily accessible from the surrounding areas, the school prides itself on being one of the leading independent schools in Staffordshire with outstanding results, including 100% GCSE pass rate at A*-C for two years running, while 100% of students have always gained three A-level passes. The School’s aim is to create a happy and stimulating environment for boys and girls in the Preparatory School

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The Nursery, Little St. Dom’s, continues to thrive offering full-time care and education for 2 and 3 year olds. They are open 50 weeks of the year, 11½ hours a day and offer the free government funded hours. The dynamic, rewarding and positive environment sets St. Dominic’s Grammar School apart from other schools and is a reason to visit and witness this in action. Their mission is to prepare all learners with the life skills and foundations to ensure their future success and happiness. Scholarship Assessments in Art, Dance, Drama, Music and Sport on Friday 1st December 2017. New Sixth-Form Grammar School Scholarships for entry in 2018 – Please Apply Now. For further details please contact the Admissions Team on (01902) 850428 or Email: secretary@stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk

wolverhampton west magazine

ST. DOMINIC’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL Girls & Boys 2-11 | Girls only 11-18

Scholarship Assessments in Art, Dance, Drama, Music and Sport on Friday 1st December 2017. New Sixth-Form Grammar School Scholarships for entry in 2018 - Please Apply Now. Personal tours of the school are available every working day, so if you’d like a tour of the school or further information please contact Admissions on Tel: 01902 850248, Email: secretary@stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk

For further information or to arrange a visit to the school please contact us on Telephone: (01902) 850248 or Email: secretary@stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Bargate Street, Brewood, South Staffordshire, ST19 9BA www.stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk137

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Newbridge

Prepar atory School certainty in what seems to be a constantly changing independent school market; this is reflected in the number of parents choosing Newbridge for their child’s education. I am committed to leading a positive, caring, well-disciplined and aspirational school; one which respects its 80 years heritage and continues to maintain its own unique identity as a small, caring prep school. As we look to take Newbridge Preparatory School forward; we continue to nurture its many qualities and help it to evolve and embrace the challenges of the future.

Our 80th Birthday I am delighted to be leading Newbridge Preparatory School in this special 80th anniversary year. Newbridge School catering for girls, aged 2-11 and boys aged 2 -7, has its own unique ethos. Our aim as a modern ‘prep’ school is to offer a superb standard of education for our pupils, balancing traditional values with cutting edge teaching and learning. As we are not linked to a senior school, we pride ourselves on being the only truly independent ‘Prep’ school in Wolverhampton.

11+ Preparation Our curriculum prepares the girls for 11+ entry; enabling parents to choose from a range of senior schools; helping the girls’ find the very ‘best’ senior school for each of them as individuals.The achievements of Newbridge towards this end, over the years have been tremendously successful. In the last five years alone, our Year six girls have achieved over 55 scholarships and awards to independent schools.

Academic Results and so much more… not an either or I recently read an educational article suggesting that schools who feature in league tables are driven solely by academic success rather than the benefits of a broader education. However, I believe that the Newbridge today, as it has for the past 80 years, values both academic successes and the development of the whole child through a rich, varied, broad and balanced curriculum. We deliver many opportunities which simultaneously provide both academic and personal development. So whilst achieving high academic results, we also have a tremendous amount to celebrate. At Newbridge, we believe in the importance of all aspects of education and measure success, in the many, varied achievements of all the children within our care.

Prepare for 2018 and visit us Please do not just take our word for it. Read our ‘Excellent’ 2016 inspection report (www. isi.net/schools/6725) or better still come and visit us – as every day is an open day. Currently, our Early Years Department and Key Stage One Department are full. We have a very limited number of places available in Key Stage Two please ring to check availability. Due to boys leaving us at 7 years old, we will have a small number of places available for Year Three in September 2018. Early registration for our waiting lists is advised to avoid disappointment.

The Future I am very excited about our future. Newbridge offers stability and

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Social Scene

Newbridge Preparatory School Wolverhampton

Sponsored by

On Saturday 23rd September, Newbridge Preparatory School celebrated the start of its 80th Anniversary with a ball which was held in the Marquee at Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis and Squash Club. The event was a true reflection of the whole school’s community coming together with staff both past and present alongside many old-girls and their parents, spanning the generations of the last 80 years of the school’s history, celebrating the school’s family based, educational ethos. It was a truly memorable evening celebrating 80 years of the Newbridge and P.N.E.U. family supported by Village Catering, Show Systems and Copicats band providing the entertainment.

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1. Sarah Fisher (Headmistress), Barrie Fisher, Chloë Fisher, Judith Blount. 2. Geoff Hall, Gisella Wiley. 3. Tina Bourke, Sarah Fisher, Stuart Bourke. 4. Jo Mackin, Jason Mackin, Lyndsey Smith. 5. Raj Kullar, Sally Ward, Lorna Sabella. 6. Claire Belcher, Vicky Carney, Nikki Pike. 7. Hayley Mckechnie, Scott Mckechnie. 8. Alison Young, Ian Young. 9. Polly Bhambra, Sarah Fisher, Helen Hughes, John Hollinsworth, Paula Timmins, Guy Birkett. 10. (Front) Raj Kullar, San Braitch, Anita Somal, Rhoda Mushoperi, (Back) Lax Braitch, Ranjit Dudrah, H Somal, Amjit Kullar. 11. Amy Willis, Chloë Fisher, Bally Bhupa. 12. Emily Bruntnell, Olivia Mason, Lucy Birkett, Emily Haynes, Sasha Gibbons, Bella Marshall, Sophie Allen, Hannah Evans, Georgia Griffiths. 13. Vicky Carney, Clair Belcher, David Williams. 14. Nikki Pike, Julie Roberts, Penny Storey. 15. Sharon Johnson, Phil Johnson, Fiona Farenden. wolverhampton west magazine

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

Chris Jewkes Fitness The Mount Hotel Over 150 people attended the Chris Jewkes annual garden party. Everyone enjoyed the beautiful grounds of the hotel, great food and outstanding entertainment; a most memorable day was shared by all. The event raised ÂŁ1000 for The Breast Cancer Now charity. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to the event and to all those who chose to be a part of it!

We would like to give Porsche Wolverhampton a special mention to thank them for their continued support.

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Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to the next event in 2018!

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1. Diane Dickinson, June Cole, Stuart Haynes, Netta Hubball, Louise Haynes, Louise Lambert, Kat Hubball, Carol Burgwin. 2. Veronika Foster, Mark Foster. 3. Michelle Mcauliffe, Steve Mcauliffe, Deborah Frost. 4. Aaron Bawa, Rajesh Brigue, Suresh Bawa. 5. Craig Astle, Chris Cox. 6. Andy Hayward, Sarah Hayward, 7. Carolyn Webb, Karen Price. 8. Lauren Taylor, Chris Jones. 9. Jackie Bailey, Mark Bailey, Chris Jewkes, Simon Priest, Laura Priest. 10. Karen Astle, Nicola Carrera, Deborah Mitchell, Julie Gaydon, Caroline Boydell, Katie Boydell. 11. Issie Jones, Steph Jones, Emily Lewis. 12. Steve Young, Andy Hayward, Sarah Hayward, Frank Green, Jackie Green. 13. William Rees, Tiffany Clark, Tom Aleksandrowicz. 14. William Rees, Ellis Bailey. 15. Terri Jewkes, Chris Jewkes. 16. Keely Fellows, Lewis Crawford. wolverhampton west magazine

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Social Scene

Aristocats Patshull Park Hotel Aristocats Fashion shop recently showcased their Autumn/ Winter 2017 collection with models from The Fashion Show Company at Patshull Park Country Club. The event, in aid of Tettenhall and Pattingham NSPCC was organised by Mrs Lesley Purchase (MBE) Chairperson locally for the charity. 160 ladies attended the lunch time event. Local businesses HT Headwear, Pattingham and Bijou Shoes, Bridgnorth also attended. A total of almost ÂŁ1800 was raised for the charity.

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Win-Win for everyone!

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1. Kim Serrell-Archer (Aristocats), Lesley Purchase (MBE), Tettenhall & Pattingham Chairperson NSPCC, Carol Billinglsey (owner of Aristocats). 2. Helena Talbot. 3. Jenny Woodward, Julia Oakey. 4. Pam Blackham, Barbara Neal, Carol Payton, Sandy McLean. 5. Pam Pilling, Madge Whittle, Mary Danks, Sheila Howard. 6. Maureen Richards, Gail Round, June Storer. 7. Wendy Wilkinson, Paula Hale. 8. Carol Tyler-Morris, Gillian Hawkins, Ann Cole, Elsie White. 9. Brenda Edge, Jenifer Williams. 10. Cynthia Murray, Mary Stanley, Ann Preece. 11. Pam Bradshaw, Marita Morrison. 12. Jackie Sanders, Pat Hickman. 13. Mary Evans, Helga Wernick. 14. Models on Catwalk. wolverhampton west magazine

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

Compton Hospice Wolverhampton On Saturday 7th October Wolverhampton based charity Compton Hospice hosted its prestigious 35th Anniversary Ball at Wolverhampton’s Ramada Park Hall Hotel. With over 200 guests in attendance the evening raised a staggering £21,590. Grace Lee, PR & Marketing Manager commented: “This incredible amount will fund the equivalent of 104 home care visits - enabling patients diagnosed with incurable illnesses to receive care in the comfort of their own home.”

Sponsored by

Over the last three and a half decades Compton has been proud to serve the communities of Wolverhampton, the Black Country, South Staffordshire and East Shropshire. In that time we are estimated to have supported over 35,000 patients plus many more family members.

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For more information on the work of Compton Hospice please visit www.compton-hospice.org.uk 1. Sumana Ray, Clare Marshall. 2. Philippa Lay, Matt Bradley. 3. Sonia Khan, Sam Grubb, Alison Challoner, Jas Rayet, Sukhy Dudwall. 4. Patrick Trower, Jo Trower, Rosile Blackwell, Ron Blackwell, Nikki Blackwell, Simon Newton. 5. Adrian Cassey, Nicola Cassey, 6. Val Anderton, Jo Timms. 7. Justin Hickman, Louise Hickman. 8. Steve Bickley, Kat Bickley. 9. Dicky Dodd, Grace Lee, Sally Woods, Simon Cater. 10. Elizabeth Edginton, Permjit Rai, Sue Rai. 11. Kate Holmdon, Vicky Harris, Dean Harris, Kate Wainwright, Dan Wainwright. 12. James Pickard, Wayne Robbinson, Steve Belstone. 13. Simon Murray, Alison Murray. 14. Sue Green, Paul Green. 15. Glen Charnell, Julie Charnell, Karen Machin, Steve Machin, Debbie Twigger, Kevin Twigger,. 16. Kevin Terry, Helen Terry. 17. Victoria Benton, Ian Bradley. wolverhampton west magazine

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Social Scene

Zygo Hair Salon Claregate Sponsored by

Salon owners Hannah White and Joanna Perry celebrated their 10th anniversary in business by inviting clients, family and friends to the official opening of their new-look renovated salon.

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Everyone got to have a look at the glitzy and glamorous salon whilst enjoying a glass of fizz and nibbles while raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Alison Graham, Carolyn Pattrick, Ann Frewer. Joanna Perry, Hannah White (Salon owners). Ann Frewer, Paul Frewer, Hannah White. Angela Ashbrook-Woodhouse, Margaret Southall. Mary Chapman, Marie Priest. Christina Shergill, Joanna Perry. Hayley Tonkinson, Kaye Farrow. Diana Polowyj, Pippa Cole. Suzanne Coglianese, Catarina Coglianese. wolverhampton west magazine

Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

ICC Birmingham The Steve Bull Foundation Charity Ball was held at the prestigious and newly refurbished ICC on Broad Street, Birmingham on Friday 8th September. Back by popular demand was the fabulous 80’s duo ‘GO WEST’ who performed live to a packed dance floor. Doreen Tipton was the host for the evening and had everyone in stitches with laughter. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

1. Steve Bull, Doreen (Evenings Host). 2. Gary Bird, Bev Bird, Sue Evans, Chris Simth, Lou Mcpherson, Darren Evans. 3. Bonnie Boyle, Rose Turner, Pauline Creighton, Alison Roberts. 4. Mike Brown, Andrew Reynolds, Bazz Malek. 5. Stephen Evans, Christine Snape, Simon Westwood, Paula Hopkins. 6. Jody Craddock, Neil Taylor. 7. Karen Smallwood, Jan Denning. 8. Kirsty Bull, Jacky Carr. 149

South Staffordshire Golf Club

great for golf and much more… Prized by its members and praised by visitors, South Staffordshire Golf Club has long been regarded as one of the finest courses in the West Midlands and is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. Founded in 1892, the club – that’s located just outside the picturesque village of Tettenhall, in Danescourt Road – is set in 160 acres and boasts a 6512 yard par 71 course.

demanding a mixture of skill and imagination to play them well.”

It’s not just skilled golfers who can Originally designed by Harry enjoy the club though, there’s also Vardon in 1908, who was one of the Peter Baker Golf Academy that offers lessons to those looking to the greatest players and most improve their swing in the indoor influential figures in the early swing clinic or at the 10 acre history of the sport, the course driving range and practice area. has been played and ‘tweaked’ by other golfing greats over the years, For the winter season, the including Harry Colt, James Braid club has introduced its special and most recently, Donald Steel. Winter Warmers offer, which As Sue LeBeau, Club Manager, explains: “The course is maintained to the highest standards and offers a series of interesting and challenging holes, including no fewer than six par four holes of over 400 yards from the Medal Tees, contributing to a standard scratch of 72 and

enables golfers to book a tee time – between Monday and Friday, with a maximum of twelve players – for only £69. And, the club’s 2018 Winter Membership Package offers seven day membership, between 1st February and 30th April, for just £200.

After a long day spent on the course there’s nothing better than heading indoors to enjoy a delicious meal in the club’s restaurant. Now that Christmas is just around the around the corner, there’s been some tempting festive additions made to the menu. “We’ll be serving Christmas Fayre from Monday 13th November until Friday 22nd December. A three course festive feast will cost just £20 per person at lunchtime or £22 per person in the evening.” If you’re planning a special event or maybe looking for somewhere to hold your Christmas party, you’ll be pleased to know that the club is available to hire for all private functions, including weddings, small parties, Christenings and wakes. Finding the perfect Christmas gift is never easy but thanks to the club you can delight both a novice and keen golfer with gift vouchers for lessons, clothing and equipment from the fully-stocked Pro Shop. So, whether you’re keen to enjoy a great round of golf, treat yourself to a delicious meal or maybe find the perfect venue for that special occasion, you’re sure to discover just what you’re looking for at South Staffordshire Golf Club.

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A warm friendly welcome awaits whether you currently have a handicap or are a complete beginner

COUNTRY MEMBERSHIP

FULL 7 DAY MEMBERSHIP

FLEXIBLE MEMBERSHIP

20 miles + away

For ladies who join during this 125th Anniversary year usual price £1270. 30% discount in year 1 and 15% discount in year 2 – no joining fee

Local and only play occasionally?

Unlimited golf at South Staffs for £410 per annum

A voucher based membership – 10 x 18 holes and 10 x 9 holes £425

All the above membership categories are subject to affiliation fees

SPECIAL WINTER WARMERS OFFER 18 holes of golf including hot bap only £25pp - must be pre-booked 1st November to 28th February

Book a tee time for £69.00 (max 12 players) - Limited availability Mon-Friday only

Struggling For that perFect giFt idea? Gift vouchers available for Golf lessons, clothing and equipment from our fully stocked pro shop

2018 WINTER 7 dAy MEMbERShIP Available 1st February to 30th April for £200 Function room available for corporate/private Christmas parties

For more details please contact our Club Manager, Sue LeBeau on 01902 751065 Or email suelebeau@southstaffsgc.co.uk The South Staffordshire Golf Club, Danescourt Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9BQ Tel: www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk 01902 751065 @SouthStaffsgc

/SouthStaffsGolfClub www.southstaffordshiregolfclub.co.uk 151

Top Golf Complex voted BEST IN BRITAIN A renowned West Midlands based Golf Complex has been voted by the public to win their second national award.

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3 Hammers Golf Complex, Wolverhampton have been honoured by winning The 2017 Golf Facility Of The Year award where they were voted as the most forward thinking venue that delivers golf in a fun, friendly environment that is accessible to all.

collected their award in front of a packed audience at a glittering gala awards event held at The Belfry. Complex Owner Ian Bonser said “3 Hammers continues to go from strength to strength. We are delighted to win this award as it again recognises us on a national scale as the best in the UK.

Amongst industry experts and tour players, the Complex

3 Hammers philosophy is to provide first class services with

the latest technology and expert staff – all at an affordable price”. The annual National Golf Awards celebrate some of the inspirational people and venues who through their hard work, dedication and experience enable more people to get into golf. The pioneering Coven based Complex shone above all competition last year to win their first national award wolverhampton west magazine

range outfield to resemble a real golf course bringing the Complex truly into the 21st century”. In recent years the Complex have expanded their facilities to enable the teaching of golf on a much wider scale with the design and commission of a purpose built Learn 2 Play Zone, the first of its kind in the UK. At over 10,000sqft the Zone is fully netted, astro turfed with synthetic putting green and an undercover pavilion.

from the Golf Foundation for their superb efforts with junior golf. 3 Hammers has beaten contenders from all over the UK to now be a multi national award winning Golf Complex which includes 6 full time PGA Golf Professionals at the Complex’s unique facilities in Wolverhampton. Trailblazers in the golfing world, 3 Hammers continually invest in their facilities which Owner, Ian

Bonser, believes contributes to their continued success “As with any business – success is only achieved by keeping on top of your game. The latest technology, expert staff, upgraded facilities and a lot of hard work make the Complex what it is today. In the last 12 months we have installed the latest automatic powertees, state of the art Trackman 4 and the latest Toptracer system as well as upgrading their driving

They are close to completing an impressive £250,000 investment project including cutting edge upgrade of their 20 bay driving range and renovation of their esteemed 18 hole golf course making it even more accessible for beginners, juniors and golfers of all standards - elevating the Complex to stand head and shoulders above other golfing venues across the UK. Ian Bonser added “This award represents a unique opportunity for us to be recognised for our passion, commitment and hard work inspiring golfers and growing the game of golf. We’re overwhelmed with the number of people that voted for us and are delighted to be recognised with such a coveted award.”

3 Hammers Golf Complex Old Stafford Road Coven Wolverhampton Staffordshire WV10 7PP www.3hammers.co.uk Golf Reception and Academy 01902 790428 Bar & Bistro 01902 791917 American Golf Store 01902 544470 Email info@3hammers.co.uk 18 hole short course

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  

            

         

         

       

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wolverhampton west magazine

Winter Tyres

• Improved performance and safety – more control in winter conditions due to innovative winter tyre technology • 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. • Increased tyre life

The friendly team at HiQ

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 snowcovered roads.

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.

Advantages of using Winter Tyres: • Shorter stopping distances – with braking distance significantly reduced in snow, ice and wet conditions

We offer a wide range of winter tyres and will be able to advise 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 Emma at HiQ Wolverhampton on 01902 420234.

HiQ Wolverhampton.

Keeping you safe on the roads this winter.

FREE

Winter tyres

winter health check.

from

£48

FREE brake check.

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HiQ Wolverhampton 11 Chapel Ash, WV3 0UB

01902 420234

www.hiqonline.co.uk/wolverhampton

Tyres • Exhausts • Brakes • Batteries • Servicing • MOTs

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

155

LEXUS NX Sport HYBRID

UNFOLLOW THE HERD

LEXUS WOLVERHAMPTON Bilston Road, Wolverhampton WV2 2QE 01902 690 024 wolverhampton.lexus.co.uk 156

wolverhampton west magazine

CT 200h prices start from £23,495. Model shown is CT 200h F SPORT with Premier pack £31,855 including optional metallic paint at £610. *3.9% APR Representative, £1,250 Hybrid Deposit Allowance and £750 Centre Contribution only available on new retail orders of CT Hybrid between 2 October 2017 and 17 December 2017 and registered and financed through Lexus Financial Services by 31 March 2018 on a 42 month Lexus Connect (PCP) plan with 0%-35% deposit. Lexus Financial Services is a trading name of Toyota Financial Services (UK) PLC; registered office Great Burgh, Burgh Heath, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5UZ. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Finance subject to status to over 18s. Other finance offers are available but cannot be used in conjunction with this offer. Offer may be varied or withdrawn at any time. 8,000 miles per annum, excess miles over contracted charged at 9p per mile. Lexus Centres are independent of Lexus Financial Services. Affordable finance through Lexus Connect. Terms and conditions apply.

The MPG figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results. They are provided for comparability purposes, and may not reflect actual driving experience. CT 200h F SPORT with Premier pack fuel consumption and CO2 figures: urban 68.9 mpg (4.1 l/100km), extra-urban 70.6 mpg (4.0 l/100km), combined 68.9 mpg (4.1 l/100km), 94g/km CO2 (17% BIK)

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

157

Super Suzuki By Rob Taylor

My memories of Suzuki cars are fond and take me back to my salad days when I was acutely aware of every hatchback from every manufacturer, in nearly every incarnation, available to buy. I remember the second-generation Swift well. Launched in 2005 with a TV campaign involving a lot of balls and a boyish Cristiano Ronaldo at the wheel it made a big splash (unlike, ironically, the Suzuki Splash) and has remained a popular favourite in the UK ever since. It was certainly an early frontrunner for me when I came to choose my first set of wheels around that time and the appeal was – and still is – obvious. This was a car which seemed by the standards of the time to be relatively fresh, lithe and agile when other hatchback staples suffered from middle-age spread; it proved that a car could be cute and practical, zippy but not fast enough to bother insurance premiums; stylish and robustly-built, above all else, it did it at an affordable price. Today the Swift name is over 30 years old and so much has changed in that time. The brand now has an enviable range of vehicles to call its own and this is due in no small part to the success of the Swift. Before it came along Suzuki was

known primarily for its motorbikes and for SUVs wearing spare tyres above their rear number-plates. Now it’s 2017 and so much is new this time out for the third-generation model: gone is the option of a three-door version, out goes the cheapest trim entry – now there’s just SZ3, SZ-T and SZ5 – and in comes new engines, lightened construction, a shorter footprint – although the wheelbase is longer, promising extra passenger space – and increased fuel economy. Built for the urban environment the Swift excels in its latest guise. Forward visibility is excellent, controls are well-weighted, and the car has a light touch which allows for accurate placement on the road and a sense of heightened agility – it’s just as good to drive as a Ford Fiesta (today’s benchmark) because of direct, responsive steering which harkens back to when driving a modestly-powered small hatchback was actually fun. Improved handling does bring an element of firmness to the ride but only in trace amounts. And you can park it with just as much aplomb because Suzuki fits a reversing camera to all but entry-level cars to help you. It cruises happily on the motorway too, with only a touch of wind noise and tyre roar affecting refinement inside. This new Swift is much more spacious with noticeable improvements in head

and legroom, both front and rear. Boot capacity is now listed at 264 litres – up 54 litres from before. Build quality is high also, control layout is simple and the entertainment systems are easily intelligible. The Swift comes with three and four-cylinder engines. The 1.0-litre SHVS Boosterjet triple I have here steals the show, however. It offers a class-first hybrid SVHS system to harvest braking energy and briefly boost power. Economy is up 4.3 mpg because of it (I averaged just over 50mpg, which is hugely impressive), but more importantly driveability is up enormously. Fantastically refined for a three-pot at idle and at low revs, it pulls hard for the red line with a wanton abandon almost unheard of for its size, making the dash to 60 mph feel much quicker than 10 seconds. Entry level SZ3 Swifts are well equipped and come with DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity, air-conditioning and a leather steering wheel, although you are denied the funky engine. If you want it and 16-inch alloy wheels, a touch-screen infotainment system with full smartphone connectivity and a rear view camera you’ll need the SZ-T at £12,999. It’s the one you’ll want to buy. With a standard model this good I can’t wait to drive the forthcoming Suzuki Swift Sport.

To book a test drive or for further details please contact Autosales Suzuki Bilston on 01902 402233. 158

wolverhampton west magazine

Welcome to the compact, yet surprisingly spacious, Celerio. With great manoeverability, superb visibility, and an amazing oﬀer when you buy on Suzuki ﬁnance. You’ve got yourself the perfect run around at the perfect price.

Autosales Suzuki Bilston

Vulcan Road, Bilston, Wolverhampton WV14 7JW 01902 402233 www.suzuki.co.uk/autosales

Autosales Suzuki Cannock

Progress Drive, A34 Bridgtown, Cannock WS11 0JE 01543 431360 www.suzuki.co.uk/autosalescannock

Model shown: Celerio SZ4 available from £10,149 on the road (metallic paint available at £465). Official fuel consumption figures for the Suzuki Celerio range in mpg (litres/100km): Urban 53.3 (5.3) to 68.9 (4.1), Extra Urban from 76.3 (3.7) to 83.0 (3.4), Combined from 65.7 (4.3) to 78.4 (3.6). Official CO2 emissions from 99g/km to 84g/km. Fuel consumption figures are based on an EU test for comparative purposes only and may not reflect real driving results. **Based on Celerio 1.0 SZ2 Petrol Manual OTR price £7,499. Offers available only to private retail customers who purchase a new Suzuki Celerio through participating authorised Suzuki dealers using Suzuki Finance Personal Contract Purchase. *1 Year’s Free Insurance offer is only available to UK residents, aged 21-79 at the start of the policy, who have resided in the UK for at least two years and held a full UK or EU driver’s licence for at least 1 year. Terms, conditions and eligibility criteria apply. Suzuki Insurance is provided by Original Insurance Services Ltd and is underwritten by Allianz Insurance plc. †3 Years’ Servicing offer is only available to UK residents aged 18+ and provides routine servicing for 3 years or 37,500 miles (whichever is sooner) including certain parts and labour. Servicing must be done by Suzuki franchised dealer/service partners at intervals specified by Suzuki. Suzuki Finance Personal Contract Purchase offer: Credit is subject to status and is only available to UK residents aged 18+ from Suzuki Finance, a trading style of Suzuki Financial Services Ltd, St. William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff CF10 5BH. Maximum 49 month term. All offers: Each offer (including Personal Contract Purchase) may be withdrawn or amended at any time without notice or prior warning and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. For full terms and exclusions of 1 Year’s Free Insurance and 3 Years’ servicing offers, see cars. suzuki.co.uk/celerio-offers. Model shown: Ignis 1.2 Dualjet SZ-T petrol manual including metallic paint. Ignis range official fuel consumption figures in mpg (L/100km): Urban from 51.3 (5.5), Extra Urban from 68.8 (4.1), Combined from 61.4 (4.6). Official CO2 emissions from 104g/km. Offers available only to private retail customers who purchase a new Suzuki Ignis through participating authorised Suzuki dealers using Suzuki Finance Personal Contract Purchase. *1 Year’s Free Insurance offer is only available to UK residents, aged 21-79 at the start of the policy, who have resided in the UK for at least two years and held a full UK or EU driver’s licence for at least 1 year. Terms, conditions and eligibility criteria apply. Suzuki Insurance is provided by Original Insurance Services Ltd and is underwritten by Allianz Insurance plc. †3 Years’ Servicing offer is only available to UK residents aged 18+ and provides routine servicing for 3 years or 37,500 miles (whichever is sooner) including certain parts and labour. Servicing must be done by Suzuki franchised dealer/service partners at intervals specified by Suzuki. Suzuki Finance Personal Contract Purchase offer: Credit is subject to status and is only available to UK residents aged 18+ from Suzuki Finance, a trading style of Suzuki Financial Services Ltd, St. William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff CF10 5BH. Maximum 49 month term. All offers: Each offer (including Personal Contract Purchase) may be withdrawn or amended at any time without notice or prior warning and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. For full terms and exclusions of 1 Year’s Free Insurance and 3 Years’ servicing offers, see cars.suzuki.co.uk/ignis-offers. Offers correct at time of sending to print.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

159

Service You Can Trust PAINT AND BODY REPAIR SPECIALISTS

We offer a friendly personalised service at an affordable price!

befoRe

AfTeR

MInI folloWIng fUll ResToRATIon

• Accident repairs • bumper and body scuffs • Paint scratches, chips and dents • Alloy Wheel repairs • full Valet/ Mop & Polish • Classic car restoration • full body resprays

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

Puzzle Answers Sudoku:

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Word Search: Hidden Phrase: We wish you a merry Christmas Traditional song

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wolverhampton west magazine

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel Image Luxury Travel 131 Alarms & CCTV 55 T & T World Appliances Electrical & Gas Geoff Hill 47 Bathrooms 21 Carvers Eaton Kitchens 41 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 29 MBH Builders 42 Beauty Salons Heaven Skin Care 103 Beauty Clinics – Cosmetic Cosmetique Aesthetic Clinic 115 Beds & Bedroom Furniture Merridale Furnishers 13 Bedroom Wardrobes (fitted) Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 29 Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Fabric Barn 17 Merridale Furnishers 13 10/11 Ralvern Val Hever Blinds 41 Boiler Service & Installations Centra Heat 43 Bookkeeping & Virtual FD Arnold Davies 58 Building Services & Contractors Mark O’Sullivan Building Services 50 42 MBH Builders 31 Three Pines Building Societies Dudley Building Society 35 Business Services Wolverhampton Science Park 61 Butchers Allan Bennett 79 Poxons 77 80/81 Richard Hipkiss Caravan Accessories Cannock Caravan Accessories 69 Car Body Repairs Elite 160 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists Touch Dry 49 Zero Dry Time 51 Carpets & Flooring - Supply & Fit Sandford Carpets 17 Virgo Carpets & Interiors 41 Car Sales & Service Autosales 159 Charles Clark (Lexus) 156/157 Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton 163 Chiropody & Podiatry Tom Casey 122 Cleaning Services – Interior & Exterior Able Facilities Services 57 RC Cleaning Services 48 Composite Doors Doorsmart 45 Computer Services Finchfield IT 58 Delicatessen Corbelli 56 Dentistry Parkdale Dentures 112 Parkdale Implants 2

Design & Print 59 Synaxis Diet & Slimming Cambridge Diet 121 Driveways MBH Builders 42 19 Resindrives.co.uk Education Newbridge Preparatory School 138 137 St. Dominic’s Grammar School Wolverhampton Grammar School 135 Entertainment & Leisure Enjoy Wolverhampton 71 Electricians & Electrical Contractors Central Electrical Contracts 37 MBH Builders 42 T & T World 55 Estate Agents Berriman Eaton 9 Fashion & Retail Aristocats 108/109 Fencing & Gates 48 Profence Financial Advisors Midland Independent 14/15 Financial Services Fireplaces & Stoves Flaming Fires 17 22/23 Wolverhampton Fireplaces Firewood Black Country Firewood 57 Fitness & Leisure Centres Chris Jewkes Fitness 107 South Staffordshire Leisure 133 Furniture & Furnishings Merridale Furnishers 13 Ralvern 10/11 27 Sofa Factory Outlet Virgo Carpets & Interiors 41 Gaming & Entertainment Casino 36 90 Garage Services HiQ Tyres 155 Gardening & Landscaping Lealans Garden Centre 63 67 The Potting Shed Gift Shops Weybridge Lane Gift Shop 73 Glazing Repairs Blakes Glass & Glazing 53 Golf Clubs 3 Hammers Golf Complex 152/153 South Staffordshire Golf Club 151 Hairdressers 114 Salon 27 Zygo 111 Health Care Cover Paycare 125 Hospices Compton Hospice 75 Hospitals – Private Nuffield 118 Hotels 98 Copthorne Hotel Mount Hotel 89 Park House Hotel 101 Italian Deli Corbelli’s 56 I.T. Media & Communications Concero 127 Jewellers T.A.Henn 6/7

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Kitchen Doors - Replacement Dream Doors 33 Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit 25 Bespoke Kitchens Dream Doors 33 Eaton Kitchens 41 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 29 MBH Builders 42 Legal Services Manby Bowdler Solicitors 131 Letting Agents Berriman Eaton 9 Lighting Lighting R Us 37 Locksmiths Cummings Brothers 50 Music Lessons M2K Music School 60 Rick Hampton 56 Music Shops Music 2000 60 Opticians Taylor Biddle 113 Orthopaedic Surgery Wolverhampton Hip & Knee Clinic 123 Markets Penkridge Market 66 Painters & Decorators Kevin Jackson 50 Photography Crescent Imaging 131 Plumbing & Heating JB Plumbing & Heating 50 MBH Builders 42 Restaurants/Pubs Bilash 91 Copthorne Hotel 98 Cowshed 87 Halfpenny Green Vineyards 95 Mount Hotel 89 Park House Hotel 101 The Shrewsbury Arms 93 Wombourne Tandoori 99 Skip Hire Wolverhampton Skip Hire 57 Taxis ABC Cars 56 Theatres The Grand Theatre 164 Tiles & Interiors Heart of Stone 42 Tile Choice 5 Travel Agents Spear Travels 65 Tyres HiQ Tyres 155 Vein Clinics Simon Hobbs 121 Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Vineyards 95 Wallpaper, Paints & Decorator Accessories S J Dixon & Son 13 Wedding Venues Copthorne Hotel 98 Davenport House 85 Mount Hotel 89 Park House Hotel 101 Windows, Conservatories, Orangeries Tettenhall Windows 25

161

Lookers Mercedes-Benz

encourages drivers to go green with diesel changeover bonus

With the MercedesBenz Diesel Changeover Bonus, you can now experience the prestige of a Mercedes-Benz while making a real difference to the environment. Lookers Mercedes-Benz are offering up to £7,000* towards a new vehicle when customers trade-in any EU1 – EU4 diesel car by the 31st December 2017. EU is the European emissions standard that has been placed on cars since 1992, with EU1 – 4 being the oldest and least efficient. If your diesel car was built between 1992 and 2010 you may be eligible for the bonus. This is on top of any existing offers and part-exchange deals. Mercedes-Benz has invested billions of pounds to develop its diesel and petrol functionality and ensure that all new vehicles adhere to the EU6 emission standard. And now, with a host of cars offering increased efficiency, it’s never been easier to drive green. Driving a newer, greener car has a host of benefits, not least the positive impact it will have on the

atmosphere. With lower emissions and state of the art technology, you will get more miles to the gallon, so you can get where you need to be, faster and more efficiently. You can enjoy this offer when you buy a brand new MercedesBenz diesel EU6 passenger car, Mercedes-Benz plug-inhybrid passenger car or a smart electric drive model. Whether it’s the athletic A-Class, the stylish C-Class Cabriolet or the solid E-Class Estate, there is a wide choice of vehicles available as part of the initiative. Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton offers a vast selection of models in their stylish showroom and a range of used approved Mercedes-Benz cars on the forecourt. With quality service and a suite of aftercare offerings, it is the perfect place to find your new, energy-efficient car. Peter Smith, General Manager of Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, said: “The diesel changeover bonus is a great way for our customers to update their car and their carbon footprint. It’s important to drive responsibly and this initiative gives people the opportunity to drive a great vehicle while making an impact on the environment.

“Mercedes-Benz has always been a reputable and prestigious brand and we are pleased to offer such quality vehicles, with great efficiency and technology, to our valued customers.” The Mercedes-Benz Diesel Changeover Bonus will run until the end of December at MercedesBenz Wolverhampton, giving customers the chance to trade in their diesel car for a brand new, more efficient model, with attractive bonuses available across the range. With a huge choice of cars available as part of the bonus scheme, there is something for everyone. Come and see for yourself at Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV2 4HD.

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Lower Emissions Bonus. Receive up to ÂŁ7,000 when you trade-in selected diesel cars*

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton 46 Penn Rd, Wolverhampton, WV2 4HD 03330 031 848 * Valid against the purchase of a new Mercedes-Benz EU6 passenger car, subject to availability. Trade-in car must be diesel, EU1-EU4 emissions standard, registered by the customer for at least 6 months. Orders up to 31.12.17. Registration and estimated delivery between 02.08.17 to 31.03.18. Copy of your V5C and valid MOT certificate will be required. Cannot be used in conjunction with other offers.

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Wolverhampton West Magazine - December 2017