Wolverhampton West Magazine - July 2017

Wolverhampton West Magazine

July 2017

Win a luxurious anti-ageing Bee Sting Facial by Deborah Mitchell herself, worth ÂŁ400! Plus other beauty prizes Win a meal for two at The Shrewsbury Arms Win tickets to see The Wedding Singer at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Win tickets for The Cosford Food Festival Win a wine tasting experience with Halfpenny Green Vineyards

July 2017

Delivered to areas of: Tettenhall, Perton, Wightwick, Compton, Pattingham, Burnhill Green, Ackleton, Badger, Chesterton, Seisdon, Trysull, Claverley, Wombourne, Lower Penn, Worfield, Hilton & Albrighton

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Contents Summer Edition The local property market by Nick Berriman The heart of the home – your dream kitchen Wolverhampton RFC Sportsman’s Lunch Crosswords & Puzzles Halfpenny Green Vineyards competition Carver Wolverhampton Marathon Events Recipe of the month Wolverhampton Society of Artists 2019: the countdown begins Grand Theatre – Interview with Jeffrey Holland Win a meal for 2 at The Shrewsbury Arms Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon Rotary Club of Wolverhampton Grand Theatre competition Gardening with Ann Winwood

8 10 12 18 20 22 24 26 30 36 40/41 42 48 53

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

Gardening in the summer 54 Meet the boss – Deborah Mitchell 66/67 Halfpenny Green Vineyards’ food festival 70 The Cowshed food review 78/79 Bee-autiful prizes for bee-autiful people 84 Royston Blythe Warford Hall 87 Holiday ready beauty 94 Ladies’ fashion – Stunning swimwear 98/99 Mind Babble: Anxiety – Don’t suffer in silence!

104 Tom’s Tip 107 Education & Schooling 118 136 Golf Tip Motoring: Ford Eco-Sport 138 141 Index to advertisers New E-Class at Mercedes-Benz Wolverhampton 142/143 Lexus – Charles Clark 144 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet 146

Congratulations to: Grand Theatre Competition Winners: Nicola Stewart, Wombourne – The Woman in Black Gilli Fletcher, Brewood – La Cage Aux Folles Winners of the meal for 2 competition at The Cowshed Lisa Steadman, Wombourne Nicola Moule, Codsall Winner of Royston Blythe fabulous hair makeover competition Sarah Steel, Wightwick Winners of West Midlands Safari & Leisure Park competition Kellie Robinson, Albrighton Lisa Day, Finchfield

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

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

*Total distribution 25,000 copies across 2 months

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

03

from the editor As any experienced meteorologist will tell you, it always pays to be vague when poking around in the future. Occasionally the individual with TV’s easiest job has to be the bearer of bad news; equally occasionally – very occasionally in this country in fact – they get to fill the world with more sunshine, which is great, but they really earn their money when the sky is fickle. It is exactly then – as Michael Fish will tell you ruefully – when it pays to hedge your bets.

So in keeping with this spirit, I shall this month steer well clear of the current political unrest and ongoing Brexit negotiations. I therefore speak to you from a self-imposed vacuum; consider me as politically disengaged and aimlessly apathetic as the nation’s youth, and twice as smart for it, because no-one enjoys eating eggs from off their own face.

I promise that from this point on everything from me will be light and breezy – just like today’s weather.

It’s summer so, as ever, many of you readers will be jetting off for a guaranteed two weeks’ worth of sun; and many of you will be taking to the jam-packed British roads for a guaranteed two hours’ worth of extra travel than is normal. Or maybe you are thinking of a totally different kind of move – the oft-worriedabout house move, if so check in on prime property purveyors Berriman Eaton, for stress-free short-hops across the local pond.

And in the interest of being inclusive, some of you will elect to stay put and either plonk yourself on top of an inflatable pink flamingo pool float or get cracking on some home maintenance, home interior titivation or garden redesign. If you are among the latter, we can help. Inside there is ample advice advocating who to choose, who to use and who’s in the news.

Speaking of which: big news about this edition’s competitions – we have some of the best prizes this side of Britain’s Got Talent. Do be sure to flip back to the front cover 04

to see full details of the many generous giveaways. Leading the charge for what’s up for grabs this time, and definitely one for the ladies, is a luxurious, anti-ageing Bee Sting Facial, which will be performed by beauty guru Deborah Mitchell herself. Worth £400, this is a prize just begging to be snapped up and with two runnersup prizes available too (both of which are none too shabby) you’d be mad not to enter – whether you are female or not! And while we’re on the subject of gender equality – take a look at La Minky’s extra-personal waxing service.

For the faint-hearted among you, viewer discretion is advised.

Popping up again – because you just can’t keep a good businesswoman down – in our Meet the Boss feature is Deborah, this time recounting her journey to success. You must also catch up on Compton Hospice’s 35th anniversary and the Sportsman’s Lunch at Wolverhampton RFU for celebrities galore – plus there’s more, including all your favourite Local Events pages comprising news about Wolverhampton’s Seaside in the City event, Newbridge Preparatory School’s 80 year legacy and Carver City Marathon Events.

In short, whatever you’re doing this summer we have it all:

where to go for ailments and nitty-gritty life stuff – like Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital, Wolverhampton Hip and Knee clinic and Taylor Biddle Opticians – and where to go for fun and food, like Halfpenny Green Vineyards and The Cowshed in Pattingham.

And remember – as crazy as this sounds – now is the time to start booking for Christmas. I’m sure local institution and taxi-firm ABC Cars will already be taking bookings for the festive season.

We also have plenty of beauty and fashion with an accent on staying young and vibrant, as well as notes on the best ways to beat the bulge, just in time for your holidays. There’s also a lot happening in our social pages – with Nick and Royston Blythe’s blessing at celebrity Dawn Ward’s Cheshire home, Warford Hall, stealing the show.

What’s that I hear? Like Oliver Twist, you want more? Ok then, well, we have a splash of Golf, a drop of Motoring and a dollop of Shakespeare. All of which hopefully spells the perfect elixir to remedy all of those political ills.

Enjoy your holiday!

Geoff

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07

The local

property market

by Nick Berriman

airshow every year with attractions ranging from Spitfires to Typhoons and Aerobatic gliders to the Red Arrows an inducement to purchase whereas someone of a very nervous disposition would run a mile.

One man’s meat is another man’s poison and that applies very much to ‘ location ‘. I have had people say that they prefer to live on a main road as they enjoy seeing the world go by yet someone I showed round a property the other day found its peace and solitude a great attraction.

It is often said that there are three things to consider when buying a property.

The first is location, the second is location and the third is location!

Recently we were showing a family round a small farm and development project on the edge of Cosford airfield. It just happened to be the day before the airshow and soon after we arrived a Chinook helicopter, which is very large and noisy, started to rehearse its routine, which involved rather scary aerobatics. Then the Typhoon jet arrived. This is probably the fastest and most noisy of all. It came right over our heads at very low level as it practised its display not once but on many occasions and the earth really seemed to shake.

One of the family rather plaintively asked “is it always like this ?” We explained that it would be worse the next day but then for the rest of the following year it would be quiet with only light planes and gliders disturbing the peace.

Anyone interested in planes would find a ringside seat for a superb 08

Some want to live near to shops and others prefer to be deep in the country. Some enjoy living on top of a hill with extensive views but others say a view is draughty and prefer to be in a position protected from the wind. Some enjoy the status of living in the best house in the road but others say the cheapest is the best investment as its value is pulled up by the surrounding better properties.

Some like living close to schools but others do not like the traffic.

And so we can go on and it only proves that it is impossible to generalise when considering where people prefer to live. Location is not the only thing on which people differ. One part of the market aspires to the character and style of period country houses whilst others prefer modern houses which are easier and cheaper to run and maintain. Then we come to gardens. Some enjoy their rolling acres whereas others shy away from the time and cost of looking after large grounds and gardens.

struggling the West Midlands was moving better than most. In fact within the West Midlands Walsall was highlighted as the hottest spot which I confess came as a bit of a surprise! On the day I pen this article one report suggested that the market was going to cool because of worries about Brexit and political uncertainty. I have said before in this column that it is far too soon to analyse the effect of Brexit. We know the hopes of one camp and the fears of the other but negotiations have not started and will not be concluded overnight so it is far into the future before we know which camp got it right and whether we are to prosper or suffer.

Any form of doubt or uncertainty does not help the property market. It thrives on a settled political and financial climate and of course people’s views on what that should be are as diverse as their preferences about where they should live!

I try to give some idea each month of how we see our local market. Happily we have been very busy. Sales and instructions have been pleasing across the price ranges. It is far from boom time and we are looking out for any quieting in enquiries.

Brexit and the election could easily have sent the market into free fall but as of now that has not happened and hopefully confidence will continue and things will remain in balance.

All I can say as an estate agent is ‘vive la difference ‘. If people did not have different tastes and requirements there would be many houses we could not sell!

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The heart of the home

– your dream kitchen If you love more classic designs and want to create the perfect country kitchen, choose traditional kitchen units with plinths, painted-in pastel hues.

The addition of a statement mantle or a false chimney breast will create a real period feel.

A sensible investment Aside from the all the benefits to both the look and functionality of your home, adding a new kitchen is a really sensible investment.

Not only does it help you to keep your home up-to-date, therefore retaining its value, it’s also attractive to potential buyers.

The kitchen is the heart of the home, it’s where we cook, eat, entertain and socialise, so it’s a pretty important space.

That’s why, when it comes to making the most of your living areas or indeed adding value to your property, a modern, well-designed and practical kitchen is essential.

Exude style Encapsulate your home interior style with your choice of kitchen design.

Modern homes with a contemporary interior are calling out for a suitably up-to-theminute kitchen. Glossy, handleless units are just the thing for creating a seamless look and a statement colour scheme will finish the design perfectly.

Seeing that a kitchen has recently been installed not only demonstrates that the home has been well looked after but saves the buyer having to factor in the cost of adding a new kitchen themselves.

If you’re looking to sell your property in the not too distant future, then steer clear of more unusual designs and instead opt for a modern style with a neutral colour scheme that can be easily personalised by the buyer.

Perfect for family life Let your dream kitchen be designed around the things you love. If you’re a keen cook, you’ll want to ensure there’s plenty of functional space that allows you to work effectively.

Gadget lovers will enjoy equipping their new design with a full range of handy tools, whereas wine connoisseurs will adore the addition of an in-built wine rack and cooler.

For family life though, a large island is the perfect addition to any kitchen to provide a place to eat breakfast or sip a cappuccino whilst catchingup on the day’s events.

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Sportsman’s lunch at

Wolverhampton RFC

by Ian Kendrick

England Cricket Team Selector and BBC Sports Speaker of the Year, Geoff Miller

Matt Dawson and Phil Tufnell sharing stories from the set of A Question of Sport

Wolverhampton Rugby Club held its 7th annual Sportsman’s Lunch on Friday 16th June 2017. The number of sponsors increased this year to include Tile Choice, Dudley Motor Company, Charter Savings Bank, and Thompson AVC. The event maintained its position as one of the premier networking events within the local business community. Companies such as George Green, FBC Manby Bowdler, Liverpool Victoria Insurance and HSBC attended with the aim of raising money for the Wolverhampton clubhouse redevelopment and the Lilllywhite Foundation.

This year was a “Question of Sport” special with Phil Tufnell and Matt Dawson recounting Phil’s inability to think quietly and their encounter with George Foreman. Matt has affection for Wolverhampton and Castlecroft as he started his England rugby career here 27 years ago. He then brought a story from the pinnacle of this career from the 2003 Rugby World Cup final where the ref went against his pledge for referring the scrum at 17-14 to England but it’s all ok as we know how it ended.

We were then entertained by sports speaker of the year Geoff Miller. The English all-rounder recounted his world record debut. He told us about a defensive stroke that would be hard to find in cricketing textbooks and how Derek Randall was a “wind-up” merchant of the finest order towards the Australians.

England Rugby and A Question of Sport Team Captain Matt Dawson

The funds raised for Wolverhampton will be used to complete the development of the clubhouse which dates to the 1960’s and long before Mini/ Junior rugby existed. The clubhouse is much improved with the finishing touches planned.

We have two exciting events for next year as they are so popular. We are holding a 6 Nations Lunch on Friday 23rd February with David Duckham and John Taylor. Then, our Summer Sportsman’s Lunch will be on Friday 15th June with Steve Davis and Bobby Davro confirmed to mix the proceedings up a bit.

If you are interested in attending either event next year then please contact Ian Kendrick on 07470 345555.

England Cricket, Strictly Come Dancing, I’m A Celebrity Jungle King Phil Tufnell reliving his illustrious career.

12

All photos courtesy of Vicky Andrews, Under The Posts

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advertisement feature

InherItance tax & the resIdence

nIl rate Band

The Residence Nil Rate Band or RNRB may be something that you have seen mentioned in the press and have either not taken the time to read it or not fully understood it. In fact it is a very important factor in financial planning for a great many people.

First of all let us consider what RNRB is and then consider its importance. RNRB is the additional Inheritance Tax (IHT) Free Allowance which is available to use against a 14

property which at some point has been occupied as the family home.

A Qualifying Residential Interest is defined by the relevant legislation as an interest in a dwelling –house which at any time has been the deceased’s residence and forms part of the deceased’s estate.

RNRB is available where the property in question is inherited on the death of the owner by the direct descendants of the deceased.

Once fully introduced it could result in up to a £140,000 saving in IHT. Direct Descendants strictly in this context and by definition according to the relevant legislation means Children, Step Children, Foster Children, Adopted Children, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren together with the spouses, civil partners, widows and widowers of these same.

The first thing to note is that RNRB only applies to deaths on or after wolverhampton west magazine

6th April 2017. Secondly, is the fact that its level will be gradually increased over the coming years.

Initially, for the tax year 2017-18 RNRB will be £100,000, increasing by £25,000 each tax year until 2021. Thereafter it will increase by the Consumer Price Index.

RNRB is transferable between spouses and civil partners.

Unfortunately large estates may lose RNRB through tapering which we will consider at a later stage.

Inheritance Tax forms a substantial part of the government’s revenue and RNRB will have a significant effect upon the number of deaths resulting in IHT being payable. During the tax year 2015/2016 it is estimated that IHT was payable in 7.1% of deaths. By 2020/21 this figure is expected to have reduced to 6%.

The amount of TRANSFERABLE RNRB that can be claimed upon second death will depend on how much RNRB was used on the first death. There is no requirement for the first of a couple to die to own a qualifying residential interest at the time of their death for unused RNRB to accumulate to the survivor. Where the first death occurred before 6th April 2017 the RNRB at the time of the first death is deemed to be £100,000, and regardless of the actual circumstances no part of this RNRB will be deemed to have been used on first death.

The exception to this rule is where the TRANSFERABLE RNRB is reduced or lost due to the TAPER THRESHOLD TEST. (TPT)

actions can be taken in order to reduce this liability.

Legislation also includes provisions to ensure that an estate will not automatically lose benefit from RNRB linked to a former property where it has been disposed of prior to death. Specifically a person’s estate will benefit from a downsizing RNRB where prior to death they either downsized to a less valuable residence, selling or otherwise disposing of a qualifying residence so that the full RNRB can no longer be claimed AND they left either the lower value residence or an interest in it or some other assets to direct descendants on death.

Downsizing or the disposal of the property has to take place after 8th July 2015 but there is no time limit on the period between disposal and when death occurs.

This is a topic that could potentially save substantial sums in IHT and should be discussed in greater detail in order to use RNBR to its full advantage.

Where the deceased’s estate exceeds £2m (The Taper Threshold) the appropriate RNRB will be reduced by £1 for every £2 by which the taper threshold is exceeded to provide an ‘adjusted allowance’. The £2m threshold is the net estate value after deducting liabilities but before applying any relief or exemptions (including the current nil rate band, business property relief and spouse exemption) This can obviously have a substantial effect on the amount of IHT paid and financial planning considerations and subsequent www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

John Webb

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

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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.

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

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

Golf club supports local responders The South Staffordshire Golf Club recently presented a cheque for £1,300 to local responder group, South Staffordshire First Responders (SSFR).

The money was donated following a year of fundraising by the outgoing captain, Richard Chapman.

Community First Responders (CFR) are groups of volunteers trained to a nationally recognised level by West Midlands Ambulance Service and respond to 999 calls in their local communities. They can be vital in reaching those people suffering from medical emergencies fast, particularly in remote rural communities, prior to the arrival of an ambulance.

In many illnesses or injuries the first few minutes are critical and simple interventions can be performed in order to save lives or prevent disability. CFR’s maybe requested to attend to medical emergencies such as cardiac arrests, diabetic emergencies, strokes, falls, and breathing problems. The charity

L-R: Mick Leadbetter and Jean Morgan (SSFR CFRs), Club Captain Richard Chapman presenting cheque of £1,300 to Matt Jevons (SSFR Trustee).

provides trained volunteers in Codsall, Perton, Pattingham, Wombourne, Kinver and all the surrounding villages.

Matt Jevons, Founding Trustee of SSFR said: “This is a fantastic donation to receive and is much more than we originally thought it might be. The money donated to us will go towards purchasing new life-saving pieces of equipment.“

Wolverhampton Welcomes Prominent Porsche Collector Well-known Porsche collector Magnus Walker visited Porsche Centre Wolverhampton as part of his Urban Outlaw book tour.

The Sheffield-born entrepreneur first fell into his motor obsession following a trip to the 1977 London Motor Show as a 10-year-old. In 1986 Magnus moved to Los Angeles and started his own clothing

Richard Chapman, Club Captain of the South Staffordshire Golf Club said “I and all the golfers at The South Staffordshire Golf Club who supported my Charity competitions are pleased to be able to help the First Responders. They are a very worthy group to receive this donation.”

and property businesses and in 1992, at the age of 25, Magnus finally got his very own 911.

20 years on, he now owns forty 911 models and is today one of the world’s most prominent collectors and modifiers of Porsche 911s, with a global social media following.

On Sunday 4th June, Magnus greeted his fans at Porsche Centre Wolverhampton, signing copies of his autobiography and taking part in a question and answer session.

A selection of modified Porsches, including a Ghost Outlaw, attracted crowds of car enthusiasts.

Simon Priest, Dealer Principal at Porsche Centre Wolverhampton, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Magnus Walker to the centre at the weekend, as well as the many Porsche enthusiasts who turned out to see him. It was a great opportunity for like-minded individuals to come together, meet Magnus and find out more about his work.”

Porsche Centre Wolverhampton is located on Stafford Road, Wolverhampton, WV10 7ER. Find out more at www.porschewolverhampton.co.uk

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Win a premium Wine Tasting Experience

with Halfpenny Green Vineyards and arrive in style the grapes are grown - as well as local farm shops, and various branches of Waitrose and Marks and Spencer in the region.

Founded in 1983 by Martin Vickers, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate was originally arable farm land worked by the family. Passionate about wine, Martin planted 400 vines as a small hobby vineyard. Ten years and many acres later, after a flurry of awards and excellent reviews, Martin had a full vineyard and a blossoming business on his hands.

Nestled in the South Staffordshire countryside just 10 minutes from Himley, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate is one of the UK’s leading English Wine producers.

The picturesque 30 acre site is home to several varieties of red and white grapes, which are harvested and used to create award winning wines in the Wine Estate’s state of the art on-site winery. The wines are then sold in the site’s shop - just a stone’s throw away from where

Today, the site is managed by Martin’s son Clive, and Clive’s wife Lisa oversees the on-site shop and restaurant. A far cry from the days of the hobby vineyard, Martin can still be found tending to the vines, managing the on-site Craft Centre (home to 15+ businesses), and selling the critically acclaimed wines at markets and shows around the country.

To learn more about Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, head to www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk

C OM P E TITIO N Here’s your chance to experience Halfpenny Green Wine Estate’s award winning wines first hand - one lucky winner will receive a Premium Wine Tasting Experience for two.

Relax in the shop’s Wine Loft, overlooking the rolling Staffordshire countryside; each guest will enjoy 6 half-glasses of the Wine Estate’s finest, tasting notes, a selection of paired cheeses from the deli, and a self-guided trail through the vines.

Arrive in VIP style: the lucky winner will be collected from their doorstep by Image Luxury Cars and chauffeur driven to the Wine Estate and then taken home at the end of the the tasting session.

The local company covers all UK destinations no matter where you need to go. For further details visit www.imageluxurycars.co.uk. To be in with 20

a chance of winning this fabulous prize, simply answer the following question correctly…

What year were the first vines planted at Halfpenny Green?

Email your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk or on a postcard to Wolverhampton West magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY. All entries to be received by Friday 18th August 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. Booking date subject to availability. No cash or alternative prize available.

wolverhampton west magazine

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21

Carver

Wolverhampton Marathon Events

in memory of her son Steven who sadly passed away in May 2014.

The organisers are being told that two of the Bobsleigh team will be taking part in the 20K cycle ride before setting off with the other members of the team and Jane in the 10K run.

With just weeks to go things are progressing well for the 2017 Carver Wolverhampton Marathon Events.

Mary Harding says “We try to be inclusive and provide events for all ages and abilities, and it is wonderful to see that so many people are attracted to and are taking part in such diverse events.”

There are no further changes to the course this year. However after listening to feedback from some of the cyclists who found the new Cousins 20K route hard going, Course Manager Gwyn has decided to include a 10K cycle ride.

Marshals Manager John Nightingale will begin his marshal training courses over the next few weeks.

The ever popular Banks’s 10K will be run over the same course as last year and is set to attract more runners this year.

The Call Print Walk is included in the events again this year and it is hoped that more people will take part this year. Race Director

In this the 20th year of the events every person who takes part in any of the events will receive a technical t-shirt and a special charity medal.

The children will also have a goody bag provided by WV Active.

The Wolverhampton Bobsleigh Team are taking part again this year. This group of lads have raised thousands of pounds for charity, pounding the streets all over the country with the heavy Bobsleigh in tow. They are always a welcome addition to the Marathon Events and this year they have teamed up with Steven Sutton’s mother Jane to raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust. A charity formed by Jane

As always there are opportunities for volunteers to get involved and help with marshalling or one of the many jobs that are vital for the smooth running of the event.

So if anyone can spare some time to help please call Carvers or email Mary on mharding681@gmail .com.

Race information packs and numbers will be posted out during July, and as always the late entry desk will be open on Saturday 2nd September from 9.30 until 5.00pm.

For more details please visit our website:

www.carverwolverhamptonmarathonevents.co.uk 22

wolverhampton west magazine

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23

RECIPE

S t r aw b e r r i e s and Cream Cake

Serves 8 Ready in 1 hour 15 mins

Turn a simple Victoria sponge into something extra special with some juicy strawberries and lashing of cream.

Time to get the best china out and have friends round for afternoon tea! cake INGREDIENTS

METHOD 1.

• 225g (8oz) unsalted butter, softened • 225g (8oz) caster sugar • 4 large eggs, beaten • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 225g (8oz) self raising flour, sifted

2.

Gradually beat in the eggs and vanilla extract, adding a spoonful of the flour if the mixture begins to curdle.

Using a metal spoon gently fold in the rest of the flour and enough of the milk to give a soft dropping consistency.

3.

Divide the mixture between the cake tins and gently level the surfaces. Bake the sponges

• 1-2 tbsp milk

filling INGREDIENTS • 3 tbsp strawberry jam, sieved • 175g (6oz) strawberries • 300ml (1/2pt) double cream • Icing sugar to dust 24

Preheat the oven to 180C, 350F, Gas Mark 4. Grease and base line two 20cm (8in) round, loosebased cake tins.

Place the butter and sugar in a large bowl and beat with a wooden spoon or electric whisk until pale and creamy.

in the preheated oven for 20-25 mins until risen, golden brown and springy to the touch.

4.

Leave the cakes to cool in the tins for 5 mins then carefully turn them out onto a cooling rack. Peel off the lining paper and leave to cool completely.

5.

For the filling, hull and slice nearly all the strawberries (reserving a couple for decoration) and mix with the sieved jam.

Sandwich the sponges together with the cream and strawberries. Dust the top thickly with icing sugar and decorate with the reserved strawberries.

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2019: The Countdown Begins to have travelled in time’.

But while acknowledging the new digital age she went on to stress that the society will continue to engage with those classical art forms that are the inheritance of the society and which it does so well.

New chairman Carol Widenbar is presented with archive painting ‘Still Life’ by Eve Gregory

This year’s AGM of the Wolverhampton Society of Artists contained more than the usual agenda.

Apart from the change of officers the Society also began the countdown to their fast approaching centenary.

Known first as Wolverhampton New Art Circle the Wolverhampton Society of Artists has existed since 1919. Newly installed Chairman Carol Widenbar remarked ‘what a difference a hundred years makes from traditional to digital we appear

It is customary for serving officers to be custodians of archive paintings which have been donated to the Society by former members, so at this year’s AGM General Secretary Rita Jukes presented ‘Still Life’, a watercolour painting by Eve Gregory, to newly installed Chair Carol Widenbar and President Keith Oram was presented with the oil painting ‘Polperro’ by G. Evans.

demonstrations, sketch-night sessions in life and still life, painting days in the field, tutored workshops and visits to art-related venues.

Their next exhibition will be at Wolverhampton Art Gallery in September 2017.

Find out more about the society and how you can become a member by visiting their website at www.wsa-artists.com The society also has a Facebook page: facebook.com/WtonSA

Rita Jukes, the outgoing Chairman, was presented with flowers and an official vote of thanks was recorded to mark her remarkable tenure of the last three years.

President Keith Oram is presented with archive painting ‘Polperro’

by G. Evans

The Society continues to go from strength to strength with monthly lectures and

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27

Eaton Kitchens Celebrating 20 years in Business To supply so many leading brands is a testament to the success of the business.

When it comes to customer service though, the entire team is as committed as Lloyd: “My dad, along with my two brothers, Stewart and Mark, all worked alongside me right from the start when the company was established in 1997, although my dad retired last year.

My wife, Gill, undertakes all the administration tasks, while my mom, Colleen, liaises with our clients from their first enquiry right through to the completion and aftersales.”

The friendly team at Eaton Kitchens

The team at Eaton Kitchen Designs is proud to be celebrating their 20th year in business this summer.

As owner, Lloyd Pitt explains: “We’re really pleased to have reached such a milestone. We couldn’t have done it without the support we’ve had from the community over the last two decades and we’re very grateful to our loyal customers.”

The company has long been committed to offering the highest levels of customer service throughout every aspect of the business, from the initial design process right through to installation.

So, it’s no surprise that Eaton Kitchens has been rewarded with a loyal customer base.

that the installations they provide are quality and long-lasting.

“We’re not interested in gimmicks or trying to draw-in customers with rock bottom prices because we want to ensure that our clients get the best products and service.”

The company has built an enviable reputation in the industry over the years because they’ve always stayed true to their commitment to quality.

“As a family-run business our reputation is everything to us. We’ve had great support from our suppliers and manufacturers who have authorised us to retail their products and because we’ve remained a small business we’ve been able to maintain the highest standards.”

Stewart and Mark head the company’s two separate installation teams and their sons have now joined the business.

“The next generation is working with us now, as Stewart’s sons - Daniel and Josh - and Mark’s son, Lachlan, have all come on board. We don’t subcontract any of our fitting so that we can guarantee a friendly, efficient service on every job.”

“Alongside designing and installing kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms, we can also undertake small building works,” adds Lloyd.

So, if you’re keen to give your home a makeover this summer don’t settle for anything less than the highest quality finish, call the expert installers at Eaton Kitchens.

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And it’s these discerning customers who really appreciate what Eaton Kitchens has to offer.

Using only industry leading brands, like Siemens, Neff, Franke and Second Nature, as well as expert in-house fitters, the company work hard to ensure 28

wolverhampton west magazine

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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w w w. e a t o n k i t c h e n d e s i g n s . c o . u k 29

IN T ER V IE W With Jeffrey Holland

Jeffrey Holland will play Danny

From Wednesday 23 August – Saturday 2 September, Jeffrey Holland will make a welcome return to the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre stage. Known for his TV roles in Hi-De-Hi and Oh Doctor Beeching! and recent stage appearances at the theatre, Jeffrey is playing Danny in a brand new production of BRASSED OFF produced in-house by the Grand Theatre.

“It will be nice to be performing on ‘home turf’ again” he said. “It’s amazing, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre is the first theatre I ever went to as a child - I took myself there on the bus from Walsall at the age of 11. I went to see a Saturday matinee of a play, I didn’t know what I was in for as I’d never been to a theatre apart from pantomime before. It’s wonderful now because I am the President of the Friends Of The Grand and it’s lovely to be a part of it.”

“Those who have seen the film will know the part I’m going to be playing – Danny was played by the wonderful Pete Postlethwaite. Danny is a retired miner who has major lung problems and his whole world is the brass band. It’s a terrible time of strife for the miners, the pits were closing down one after the other and that is what the story centres around but wrapped in the band’s music. There’s a brilliant young lady, Clara Darcy who 30

The model box of the set, designed by John Brooking

played the flugelhorn and she’ll be playing it live every night – I’m really looking forward to conducting that band! I’ve got conducting lessons still to come, although I’ve conducted the Hallé Orchestra in my living room!”

As well as professional actors and the City Of Wolverhampton Brass Band, local actors will form part of the cast.

“It’s going to be quite an interesting project. It’s also partly a community production whereby members of the local Wolverhampton community will join us and I’m told these amateur actors are very, very good. I’ll have a lot of local friends coming, and all of my friends from Walsall who run the Grange Playhouse will be coming, I think en masse on a coach!”

On playing the music, Jeffrey’s past experience was much more teenage -

“I used to play the drums as a young lad, and I think everyone could play at least three chords of a guitar when I was growing up. I don’t think I’m up to giving the flugelhorn a go though!”

“Since I got the part I managed to acquire a copy of the DVD, I’ve watched it a couple of times now and it’s a fascinating story. I have no doubt whatsoever that this will be something really beautiful for people to come and watch.”

Tickets for BRASSED OFF are now on sale via the Box Office in person, by calling 01902 42 92 12 or online at grandtheatre.co.uk.

Jeffrey was speaking to Jason Forrest. #MadeInWolverhampton #BrassedOffWLV

Jeffrey Holland (Danny), Christopher Conel (Phil), Clara Darcy (Gloria), Ash Matthews (Shane), Miriam Grace Edwards (Sandra) and Eddy Massarella (Andy)

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As seen on...

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DIY SOS

31

Lighting R Us: Back better than ever better quality products.

Exciting things have been sparking up at Lighting R Us recently and we are ecstatic to finally share with you what it is we’ve been up to.

We have totally transformed ourselves and we are back, better than ever. Perhaps you are wondering what we are on about?

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32

The days of 500 products from 3 different brands are over.

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Not to mention our gorgeous range of homeware and accessories. We would say we offer the full package when it comes to upgrading your décor.

At Lighting R Us, we pride ourselves on offering a quality selection of stunning and unique lighting online, that will certainly illuminate your home and garden.

Our new products cater to both modern and traditional homes.

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Win a meal for two

at The Shrewsbury Arms, Albrighton – and arrive in style

B A R & R E S TAU R A N T

The Shrewsbury Arms is giving one lucky reader the chance to win a 2 course meal for two including a bottle of house wine.

that the high standards set from the outset are maintained and that every customer leaves fully satisfied with every aspect of their visit. The pub has gone from strength to strength in the 4 years since the new owners opened the doors, the support of the locals and regulars (some of whom aren’t so local!) has been absolutely fantastic and the team couldn’t have wished for better.

Live music is on offer every Friday and Saturday Night including August Bank Holiday on Sunday 27th August. A fixed price lunch club menu runs from Monday to Friday

The team at The Shrewsbury Arms have been working extremely hard during the past 4 years to ensure

12 noon - 5pm, Thursday night is Steak Night (receive a FREE bottle of House Red or White Wine with every two steaks ordered), Friday is Fish & Fizz with discounts on Prosecco and Champagne. The Shrewsbury Arms is available for semi-private events such as christenings, wakes and birthdays etc.

Sunday Lunches are proving very popular and the Sunday sharing platter is one of the best sellers on the Sunday Menu.

The Shrewsbury Arms is always thinking of new and fresh ideas to keep its customers happy.

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

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

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

On which night of the week is Steak Night?

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

All entries to be received by Friday 18th August 2017.

Competition Terms and Conditions -Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and informed by telephone. To enter you must be aged 18 years or older. No cash or alternative prize will be given. Prize valid from Sunday to Thursday inclusive and booking date will be subject to availability. Prize valid until Thursday 21st September 2017. All entries will be forwarded to The Shrewsbury Arms unless requested otherwise.

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S h a k e sp e a r e’s

Stratford-upon-Avon

Shakespeare’s birthplace

By Rob Taylor

Inevitably, whenever I think about Stratford-upon-Avon I think about William Shakespeare.

nonetheless, just the same as how so many of us associate England’s greatest playwright with boring bewilderment at school. Every kid has struggled at some point with Shakespeare – I can still vividly

remember the crushing boredom I experienced when reading The Merchant of Venice in high school. My classmates and I took turns to read it aloud in mumbled monotone, while our teacher gazed

Like The Beatles and Liverpool, the two are so indelibly linked in my mind that it’s hard to tell when one ends and the other begins.

Visit Stratford and you’ll be just one of the many thousands of tourists who flock from all over the globe to revel in the unique atmosphere provided by Shakespeare’s birthplace. And every one of those visitors will no doubt be eager to watch a play written by the Bard of Avon at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, which sits proudly on the banks of the River Avon.

Whether I’m just a victim of the town’s tourist-trap or not, this stream of consciousness exists 40

Clopton Bridge

wolverhampton west magazine

listlessly out across the playing fields. It’s an uninspiring memory.

The most interesting nugget to come out of class was that William Shakespeare is an anagram of ‘I am a weakish speller’ – I learned this from my good friend John Kirk and I’ve always found it ironic.

Looking back, I blame my teacher.

After all, when in the wrong hands, anything can be made mediocre. Today I find his writing truly epic – despite the appalling spelling [sic]. My only hope is that the following notes on Stratford inspire interest and not tedium.

Situated in Warwickshire, Stratfordupon-Avon affords visitors historic houses, a famous theatre, a thriving street market, shops and many restaurants. Slap bang in the centre of England, the town has always been an important river-crossing settlement, market town and regional centre. The striking medieval Clopton Bridge is a Grade I- listed masonry arch bridge which crosses the Avon at the place where the river was forded in Saxon times, and which gave the town its name.

In Elizabethan Stratford, farmers and people from other towns and villages regularly attended weekly markets. The market building – which burnt down in 1826 – was where Shakespeare’s father, John, sold the gloves he made.

Stratford received its borough charter in 1553, just eleven years before Shakespeare’s birth. His father became Mayor of Stratford and soon bought two adjacent

Holy Trinity Church

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

houses, which he made into one.

The house on Henley Street is now known as ‘The Birthplace’.

A rambling half-timbered property purchased by a charitable trust in 1847, it was soon carefully restored into being a modern visitor centre focused upon providing insight into Shakespeare’s early childhood years.

Today the building makes up but one of a collection, commonly referred to as the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.

The other buildings include, most prominently, Hall’s Croft, a 16th century timber-framed house named after Dr John Hall, who married Shakespeare’s daughter Susanna in 1607, which contains exhibits on medical practices during the Tudor period; Nash’s House, once home to Thomas Nash, who was husband to Shakespeare’s grand-daughter, Elizabeth Hall, and now to the local history museum and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. This adorably cute thatched house was home to Shakespeare’s wife before their marriage in 1582. It is outside the town centre in Shottery, so a sightseeing open-top bus tour is the best way to bypass the scrum of Japanese tourists who will inevitably be vying to get “England’s most photographed cottage” in their viewfinder.

In Church Street you will find King Edward VI Grammar School, where William was educated. New Place, Shakespeare’s home from 1597 until his death in 1616, is nearby. The short stroll across to Holy Trinity Church, where William

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Shakespeare and Anne Hathaway are buried, is a must also. This ancient church contains, among its many fascinating features, 26 misericords in the choir stalls.

These ‘mercy seats’ are fancifully decorated with carvings of mermaids and unicorns. Despite being one of England’s mostvisited parish churches, Holy Trinity still provides a moment of calm away from the bustle of the town. Its gardens border the river and are an excellent spot to watch for swans and boats floating along the calm waters.

Cross the park to Stratford-uponAvon Butterfly Farm to discover hundreds of the world’s most spectacular butterflies flying in an exotic environment of tropical blossom, with splashing waterfalls and fish-filled pools and then ride the old chain ferry – which a ferryman winds by hand – from the Dirty Duck Pub in town to parkland and on to riverside walks.

So whether you’re one of the few who believes the Bard to be a charlatan who just ripped-off the works of Sir Francis Bacon or perhaps the greatest poet of all time, do visit Stratford-uponAvon to examine the evidence for yourself. But a word of caution: whatever you do, don’t mess with Shakespeare’s final resting place, because his tomb contains a curse. It reads: “Good friend, for Jesus’ sake forbeare, To dig the dust enclosed here.

Blessed be the man that spares these stones, And cursed be he that moves my bones.”

41

The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton

Annual Dragon Boat Event and in the Major Final, receiving two trophies and all the bragging rights, the 2017 Dragon Boat Challenge champions - The Sedgley Scorpions.

But it really is a huge ‘well done’ to everyone for taking the time and trouble to enter the event, raise the sponsorship, and risk a soaking- all to raise monies for good causes.

And also, a huge thanks to all the visitors to Himley Park who came in huge numbers to enjoy not only the spectacle of Dragon Boat racing, but also to experience all the other concessions at the park which help to make the day a really memorable one for all concerned.

Minor Final Winners - Photobooth Hoppers

Sunday May 21st saw the Rotary Club of Wolverhampton hold its 17th Annual Dragon Boat Event at Himley Park.

21 teams took part in an action packed, fun-filled day of racing down the Great Pool, with frantic paddling and more than the occasional splashing, entertaining the crowds.

Two final races then take place - the Minor Final for places 7 to 12, followed by the Major Final - for the top six boats.

In the previous 16 years, over £340,000 has been raised by this event- a truly enormous sum- all for good causes.

Then two final races took place, each with six boats with up to 15 team members paddling furiously towards the finish line. Both races were incredibly close with only one second separating the first three boats in each race.

It really does put the fun into fund-raising.

This year, the winners of the Minor Final were the Photobooth Hoppers

If you would like to see more of the action from the day, or to learn more about entering a team for 2018 - see www.rotarydragonboats.co.uk or call Rotary Club member Mike Boyce on 07976 612276.

Approximately 4,000 people filled the park with 300 paddlers making up the competing teams.

Each team selects a chosen good cause to raise funds for, by obtaining sponsorship with the total sums raised being split between the crews chosen charity, and the Rotary Clubs own charitable trust for further distribution.

Racing took place between 10.00am and 2.30pm when every team had three races against two other boats during the heats part of the day, always against different opposition, to find the 12 fastest boats.

Then the moment everyone waits for - to see if they are in the finals…

42

Major Final Winners- Sedley Scorpions

wolverhampton west magazine

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Excel Electrical Contractors

- The Premier Choice Excel Electrical Contractors has long been the premier choice for both homeowners and businesses alike during the 19 years its been trading.

Based in Albrighton, the independent electrical contractors have established an enviable reputation in the trade and have been contracted to undertake many large projects across the country.

As Director, Tim Cowling explains: “We’ve carried out work across the entire West Midlands and beyond.

Currently, we are working at Manchester University’s Abbey College but over the years we’ve worked in offices in Canary Wharf, as well as undertaking regular work for the Ministry of Defence and YMCA. We have also worked for local businesses, schools, leisure facilities, NHS, and private doctor’s surgeries, care homes and dental surgeries. The type of work carried out includes complete refurbishments, fire alarm and emergency lighting installations, as well as ongoing regular maintenance”.

Of course the Excel team is always busy taking care of their domestic customers too.

“From our showroom – that’s located in The Old Ballroom, Albrighton - we can supply a range of sockets and switches, as well as a wide choice of bespoke traditional and contemporary light fittings. We offer fitting for everything we sell and are always available to take care of any domestic job, big or small.”

NICEIC-approved and currently employing a team of eight fully qualified and trained staff, Excel is adept at undertaking a varied and extensive range of contracts.

“Our team has been with us for a very long time and every member is friendly, highly trained and reliable. In the last 12 months we have taken on two apprentices from the University of Wolverhampton to train.”

Tim and his business partner, Steve Perry, work hard to meet the needs of every client and have expanded one aspect of the business in particular that has grown in demand.

“Over the last three to four years we have really seen the demand for data installation increase. We have had many commercial clients request that we create bespoke data systems to enable information to be shared.”

In fact, demand is growing in the domestic sector too.

“Many domestic clients of ours have asked us to carry out data installations in their homes so that they can easily link and share information between all of their devices, like laptops, tablets and smartphones.”

Always keen to help their clients become more energy efficient, the Excel team can advise on installations, like LED lighting, which can aid in reducing energy bills.

Another specialist area of the business is CCTV installation.

“We can install internal and external cameras for surveillance and security purposes in homes, factories, warehouses and other industrial premises. We are able to carry out surveys to recommend the CCTV system that best suits your needs and budget,” adds Tim. Whatever the job, whatever the size, Excel Electrical is the trusted choice for your home or business.

Why not take a look at Excels’ brand new website www.excelelectrical.net or contact the team today on 01902 374831.

Photos showing an industrial job completed by Excel including energy efficient lighting, 3phase and single phase power and data installation.

44

wolverhampton west magazine

Domestic • Commercial • Industrial All electrical work undertaken • Fault Finding & Repairs • Fuse Board upgrades • Power and Lighting Design • Home Networking • Full or part Re-Wiring • Immersion Heaters • Electric Showers • Indoor & Outdoor Lighting • Phone & TV Sockets • Outdoor Wiring • CCTV & Security Installations • Minor Work - Sockets, Switches etc.

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47

Grand Theatre COMPETITION of the dumpster and back into the limelight? Or is he going to see her head off down the aisle with Wall Street bad boy Glen. Only Grandma Rosie seems to be able to see that Robbie and Julia are the couple that are meant to be.

(West End), Dirty Dancing (West End) and Legally Blonde (UK Tour).

West End and Musical Theatre star Jon Robyns plays Robbie Hart.

Most recently he starred in Legally Blonde as Emmett Forrest, other theatre credits include Enjolras in Les Misérables, Spamalot, Memphis and Avenue Q.

One lucky reader can win 2 tickets to see THE WEDDING SINGER on Tuesday 3rd October at 7.30pm at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre.

He is joined on stage by British singer-songwriter Ray Quinn as Glen who shot to fame as the runner-up in ITV1’s The X Factor in 2006 and as champion of Dancing on Ice in 2009. In 2014 he won Dancing on Ice: Champion of Champions. His theatre credits include Danny Zuko in Grease

Don’t miss your chance to join the party of the year – with a musical that promises to get you up dancing faster than your Dad at a wedding, The Wedding Singer is packed with songs which capture all the fun and energy of the Adam Sandler smash hit film.

Tickets for THE WEDDING SINGER from 3 – 7 October 2017 are now on sale at The Grand Theatre Box Office.

Step back in time and get ready for the biggest party in town!

A sparkling new production of The Wedding Singer will play Wolverhampton Grand Theatre for one week only from 3 – 7 October. Jon Robyns, Ray Quinn, Cassie Compton and Ruth Madoc will star in the hilarious musical based on the hit film.

It’s 1985. Hair is huge, greed is good and rock-star wannabe Robbie Hart is New Jersey’s favourite wedding singer. When his own fiancée dumps him at the altar a seriously bummed out Robbie makes every wedding as disastrous as his own.

Can sweet natured Julia and her best friend Holly lure Robbie out

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

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and send it on a postcard with your name, address and telephone number to Wolverhampton West Magazine or email info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk by Monday 21st August 2017.

What year is The Wedding Singer set?

A. 1958 B. 1993 C. 1985 D. 2008 48

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 Monday 21st August 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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Summer in the garden

Spring started early this year, but then the sharp frosts of April damaged large amounts of young growth, setting everything back again. We even had customers mention that the frost had damaged young growth on Oak and Walnut trees, a very unusual occurrence.

As we move from June into July and August there’s still time to plant larger pots of Geraniums, Fuchsias, Cosmos and Dahlias to fill in any gaps in borders. Water to get established and feed on a weekly basis. Dead head regularly and you’ll have colour through to the first autumn frosts, which hopefully will be late starting.

Hanging Baskets want liquid feeding weekly - even with the slow release fertilizers added to composts, you’ll see the extra benefits from liquid feed. Baskets soon dry out

especially when they’re sheltered from rain at the side of a house so watering morning and night in very warm weather is a must.

Tomatoes and cucumbers need water regularly during hot weather – preferably in the morning – this keeps the atmosphere humid and prevents the plants staying damp overnight which can cause problems with powdery mildew or botrytis – this is especially true for cucumbers as they can be very susceptible to mildew.

Keep sowing or planting salad crops such as lettuce, spinach, spring onions and radish in the veg patch to get a continuous harvest. Use very fine netting to cover cabbages, cauliflowers, carrots and other particularly susceptible vegetables against flies, pigeons and butterflies.

Harvest peas and runner beans regularly whilst they are young

Tips are provided by Ann Winwood, Lealans Garden Centre, Wolverhampton and tender, freeze any spares for home grown vegetables during the winter months. Keep beans and peas moist and spray over the foliage to encourage pods to set.

There’s still time to treat moss on lawns with M O Bacter if the weather is not too dry and we have regular supplies coming in. For smaller areas of moss try the new Bio Press from the same supplier, which can be watered onto the lawn?

For new potatoes in October, or at Christmas, plant seed potatoes in tubs in July and August.

Growth will finish in October, but leave the tubers in their pots until required for cooking. Remember they’ll need frost protection once the winter frosts appear in November and December.

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THE GARDEN IN SUMMER One of the problems summer weather brings in its wake is a tendency for tall and not-so-tall plants to bolt. Just a light sprinkling of rain will do it.

One minute you’ve a well ordered garden with border plants arranged in descending order from the back, the next, and you have an untidy wilderness of giants bending under their own weight. Have plenty of stakes to hand so you can tie them up before they fall down.

Bedding plants will greatly benefit from a feed of weak liquid manure around the middle of summer. Hardy annuals will also need attention, water, feed and a brisk hoeing will suit them. If the weather is dry you will need to water the rock garden, vegetable garden and the lawn, and you should mulch like mad all over.

Leave the grass cuttings on the lawn after mowing as this also prevents rapid evaporation of moisture. Don’t be taken in by lots of heavy rain, judge the dampness of the weather or otherwise by examining the soil, because in summer especially, rain can evaporate faster than it takes to soak the ground, even after a torrential downpour.

You will have to clip and prune hedges and shrubs to keep them growing in the right way 54

and there will be lots of woody rubbish about. Don’t put this on the compost heap as it will take years to rot down. Instead, burn it and put the ashes on the heap.

This is the peak time for cuttings. Roses especially can be propagated this way and it really is the cheapest and easiest way of increasing your stock.

Of course weeds will also be going great guns and they can become a nuisance on crazy paving and other pathways. You can use any of the proprietary herbicides if you wish, but common salt is cheaper and does just as good a job.

Should you have ventured into cucumber growing you should keep a close watch on their development.

They need plenty of water or the fruit will be bitter. The plant itself also likes to be damp, so spray it all over gently each day if necessary.

As soon as several fruit have set, feed generously with liquid manure or some similar artificial fertiliser.

Runner beans are another vegetable that need copious water, most especially when the flower buds are showing. Again the plants will greatly appreciate gentle spraying after each hot day is over, and careful attention to this will bring a reward of fresh succulent beans on your plate later on. Many gardeners think

it is just leaving the pods on the plant for too long that gives those harsh, stringy vegetables. This is seldom the case however and long pods full of almost mature beans can be just as palatable provided enough water has been provided throughout the fruiting season.

If you are thinking of laying a new lawn, the site may be cleared and levelled and left to ‘air’ ready for planting next season. On established lawns the work of mowing and watering must go on. In addition pay particular attention to edges by trimming and securing where necessary. Edges that have fallen away may be cut back, built up again and prepared for re-turfing.

Turf should normally be laid in August but make sure it is well watered and it will take and do well. If your ground tends to be on the soft side, consider using a stiff metal or plastic lawn edging as this will provide the support needed to stop constant edge crumbling.

The garden in full swing in summer should be a blaze of colour. Do remember however that blooms fade and die. They can spoil the look of the area if they are not removed, so keep dead-heading and, while you are about it, don’t forget to hoe amongst those weeds, they can be just as unsightly. wolverhampton west magazine

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55

Making your driveway an integral part of

YO U R L AND S C A P E

by Martin Neenan, General Manager, at Boningale Garden Creations

Your driveway is an important part of your landscaping because it gives a first impression of your home – they call this ‘kerb appeal’, making the approach to your home attractive and appealing.

However, it is also likely that your driveway will be driven on every day. That means in addition to looking good, it needs to be durable and functional.

A well-designed driveway will take into account the surrounding landscape as well as your home’s architectural style and car parking needs.

The four main issues that a designer considers

when creating and building a driveway are access, safety, drainage and aesthetics.

Materials are the most important component in the design and with so many options, from block paving and asphalt to concrete and gravel, to choose from, it may feel overwhelming.

Here Martin provides 5 different style ideas for creating attractive driveway landscapes.

It’s important to look at the width and layout of your driveway to see which will work best but ultimately, your budget and design goals will determine what you choose.

• Elegance. Create kerb appeal with an elegant paved driveway that is bordered by a classic planting combination of evergreens and colourful scented blooms.

A good designer will advise on the pros and cons of each material and may also suggest additional ideas, such as multiple colours to create a pattern, pattern stamping or decorative borders, lighting or gates.

• Clean and green. Create an inviting and lush planting scheme by layering all-green foliage plants. These will also require less maintenance as compared to perennials.

While many homeowners understandably want to maximise the space they have to park their cars safely on their property, try not to create a car park.

• Large and proud. For large driveways, you want hard materials that complement the landscape (so it doesn’t look like a car-park) and the planting scheme should be designed to look like a garden – not practical. Consider using attractively planted and colourful ‘cottage garden style’ flower beds. For long driveways, break-up lawn areas with a mix of leafy evergreens, bright foliage and colourful accents.

Depending on the design of the space, an informal meadow garden can also be very attractive and cost effective for large expanses.

• Minimalist. Keep things simple with a single variety of plant — this could be an evergreen shrub, an ornamental grass or topiary – strategically planted along the length of the driveway. This works well with contemporary styled homes.

Planting softens the hardscaping, creates a more inviting space and assists with drainage, but choose carefully the shrubs and plants that will be used in the borders alongside driveways – check for overhang, maximum growth and spread.

For further information and advice on choosing a striking driveway, please visit www.boningalegarden-creations.co.uk, email inspiration@ boningale.co.uk or call us on 01902 376500.

From our award-winning garden design associate Andi Way to our horticultural specialists and project management team, who oversee and manage the project from start to finish, you are assured of expert advice every step of the way.

• Short and sweet. Even small driveways provide the opportunity to make a design statement with plantings. If you are short of space for borders, swap out some of the paved areas with walkable ground covers and complement with colourful potted plants and glorious hanging baskets.

56

wolverhampton west magazine

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57

Wolverhampton’s premier taxi company Whatever you’ve got planned this summer you’ll need to find a fast, friendly and reliable taxi service to take you there.

provides details of the driver and car, giving the customer a safe and secure service.”

Fortunately the team at Wolverhampton’s premier taxi company, ABC Cars, are ready and waiting for your call.

ABC’s business is mainly concentrated within Wolverhampton and surrounding villages, and journeys range from local to national trips.

Established over 25 years ago, ABC has long been the trusted choice for customers across Wolverhampton and the company has grown to employ a team of 300 staff members and drivers.

As Director, Neil Caley, explains: “When I started the company in the 1990’s we had just three drivers, since then the company has grown and grown.”

The company constantly invests in the business and always looks at ways to improve the customers’ booking experience.

“We provide a fast, efficient and reliable service for travel in and around Wolverhampton, including airport transfers to and from all UK airports and seaports.”

The company offers a full range of services day and night, 365 days a year.

Neil fondly remembers the ‘good old days’ when Ford Cortinas were used as taxis, but he has worked hard to ensure that his company has always moved with the times.

ABC also operates free phone services throughout many busy sites in the city, such as New Cross Hospital, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Monmore Green Stadium, and Wolverhampton Racecourse.

“Technology has played a big part in our growth and we now offer our customers the option to order a vehicle using our new app and pay with a credit or debit card.”

“We have a diverse range of vehicles, including eight-seater mini buses, wheelchair-carrying vehicles, people carriers, saloon cars and even a new executive range of vehicles – such as Mercedes – to cater for those special occasions.”

And, unlike other taxi companies, ABC does not add a surcharge for card payments.

The App is available for both Android and iPhone users and allows the customer to quickly and easily book their journey, without the need to speak to anyone.

“Customers are able to see the cost of their journey and track where their vehicle is. It also

And smart and polite drivers are a must for ABC: “All of our drivers are friendly and professional. We strive to recruit within the city because employing local people is really important to us. We’ve recently seen an increase in our number of female drivers too.”

With over a million journeys a year being completed by ABC and with competitive prices, it’s no wonder that the business is flourishing.

“ABC is growing and that’s all thanks to the hard work of the staff and management and the continued support of our customers.”

And when they’re not busy serving their customers, the team at ABC are always keen to get involved with helping a good cause.

“We engage in many charity initiatives throughout the year to help to raise funds for our chosen charities. Recently we delivered Easter eggs to sick children at New Cross Hospital and donated food to local food banks,” adds Neil.

In this day and age, where everyone has to work harder for business, simply being the biggest isn’t good enough.

A real family affair - Greg & Neil Caley with a Mercedes-Benz, one of the vast fleet of cars available.

58

The winning taxi company needs to have the best technology, be competitive when it comes to pricing and offer the most professional service to meet the needs of every customer. And, that’s what ABC Cars is always working hard to achieve. wolverhampton west magazine

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Au t h e n t i c I ta l i a n

g a s t r o n omy

in the hear t of Willenhall If you do one thing this weekend - or any weekend for that matter, make it a trip to Corbelli’s Little Italy Deli.

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

Established in 1965 Corbelli’s Little Italy Deli is quite literally a hidden gem. It initially opened in Wolverhampton in 1965 and moved to its current location in Lower Lichfield Street, Willenhall in 1980. It can be tricky to find but it’s well worth the search.

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

They offer a warm welcome and are keen to share their in depth knowledge of their exquisite produce. The range at Corbelli’s is vast, from cheeses and meats to antipasti and pasta and not forgetting the wines – there are hundreds to choose from! The aroma from

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the wine vats is aromatic and intoxicating. If you are a keen wine maker, it’s worth adding a diary note that on Saturday 9th September the finest grapes are arriving from Italy, red first and then a week later white. It’s a keenly anticipated event so you will have to be quick to get your order. Meanwhile the wines stocked are sure to cater for every taste.

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

If you are looking to stock up with some special treats for Christmas then Corbelli’s has to be on your list. Why not create a truly unique hamper for the perfect gift for a foodie in your life? As well as fresh produce there’s also a fabulous collection of coffees, condiments, tins, jars that will keep well and be the perfect answer to the ‘no more turkey!’ feeling, yet still providing something special.

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

Tel: 01902 630994 Open on Saturdays from 10am to 2pm and Sundays 10am to 1.30pm

www.littleitalydeli.co.uk We shall be closed from Saturday 12th August and re-open on Saturday 2nd September.

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43 LoWER LIchFIELD STREET, WILLEnhALL WV13 1QQ EASy AccESS from THE moTorWAy

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www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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A Seaside in your city

Free Family Fun on Saturday 2nd September 2017 and Ladders and Twister and are sure to keep everyone entertained throughout the day.

For lovers of a traditional seaside fun fair, visitors can enjoy Hook a Duck and a Coconut Shy and try their luck at both of these well loved side shows. Children and big kids, will be entertained by a free Punch and Judy Show running throughout the day on Queen Square. Children can also enjoy free face painting.

The Man on the Horse will be surrounded by a free seaside event from 10 am to 4pm on Saturday 2nd September, which includes free ice cream and candy floss for the first lucky 400 visitors.

Come along and enjoy the Seaside in the City. We at the Enjoy Team are organising this event as part of the Enjoy Wolverhampton events programme. This free family event will transform Queen Square into a seaside for the day and inject a lot of fun for our visitors.

For lots of ideas to entertain the kids over the summer

holidays please visit www.enjoywolverhampton.com.

Enjoy the sun, sea and sand in the city and take the chance to have a bite to eat at any of our many family friendly cafes, pubs and restaurants and get some last minute back to school stuff sorted!

To find out more about the event call 01902 710903 or visit our Facebook and twitter pages for updates.

Queen Square will be turned into the seaside with a huge city centre beach this year surrounded by deckchairs for all the family to enjoy. A giant deckchair provides a perfect photo opportunity.

Visitors can enjoy an array of Free fun family activities including testing their strength on the High Striker. A games area includes Giant Kerplunk, Jenga, Snakes

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SATURDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER QUEEN SQUARE WOLVERHAMPTON with the SIGNAL 107 ROADSHOW

NEW THIS YEAR BIG STREET BEACH

FREE FAMILY FUN DAY 10AM

- 4PM

Shy ck • Giant Jenga • Coconut Fun Photo Booth • Hook-a-Du hops rks wo mpetitions • Circus skills Punch & Judy • Sandcastle co

FREE FACE PAINTING 10am-4pm

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

enjoywolverhampton.com 63

New Centre Manager

at Shipley Campus

Ashley Rose is the new Centre Manager for Shipley Campus, next to Gardenlands on Bridgnorth Road.

The Shipley Campus is part of North Shropshire college (NSC) and offers a range of courses both full and part-time. The most popular full-time course is the Animal Management course, the centre houses over 50 species of animal ranging from alpacas to snakes.

The centre also offers a very popular parttime floristry course where students come termly to create amazing seasonal designs.

L/R - Sam Cank Senior Animal Care Technician, Ashley Rose Shipley Campus Manager, and Jo White, Business Development Manager

The College is looking to expand the number of courses available at Shipley including basic IT courses and qualifications at family friendly times to suit those looking to brush up their skills or get back into work.

Ashley is working with Business Development Manager, Jo White to build existing relationships with local businesses and create new ones. Ashley comments, “The Shipley Campus is a fantastic venue with great facilities which is small and friendly and offers students of all ages a perfect learning environment which is different to that of a bigger College. We want to offer new courses in terms of qualifications and leisure courses and we want the local community to support us in achieving this.”

Staff and students who work and study at the campus are well aware of the amazing facility, however many local people are unaware just how special the campus is and what is available there.

Ashley goes on to say, “We urge people to pop in anytime to have a tour of our lovely campus and find out what courses are available. We need to ensure people know that although North Shropshire College is our head office, the actual Shipley Campus is on Bridgnorth Road, next to Gardenlands.”

The College has an open day coming up on Sat 5th August and anyone interested is urged to book a tour with Ashley via 01902 709840 or Shipley@ nsc.ac.uk. Ashley welcomes visits to the campus anytime, just drop in or call ahead to book.

ADVICE & GUIDANCE EVENT WEDNESDAY 30TH AUGUST 4PM - 8PM

Aspire (Nr Burford), Oswestry Campus, Shipley Campus (Next to Gardenlands) & Walford Campus (Nr Shrewsbury)

• Tutors will be available to provide advice throughout the evening • View the facilities and sign up on the night!

• School leavers and Adults welcome • No need to book just drop in between 4pm & 8pm

Whatever your GCSE results, NSC has a course for you!

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO COME & DISCUSS YOUR FUTURE WITH US 01691 688080 WWW.NSC.AC.UK

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wolverhampton west magazine

WHERE WILL YOUR BUSINESS TAKE YOU?

‘the reputation of a small business is its most valuable asset’ It has been said the reputation of a small business is its most valuable asset, and of course there are many assets of a business which have an inherent value, even so, these are often very difficult to quantify.

Whether it’s the business name, its reputation or its prime location, there are much we see in value but struggle to quantify on paper. SPARK Incubation Hub is exactly that, a business Centre providing a myriad of services and facilities to new-start businesses in a prime location in the heart of Wolverhampton, a city which was once featured in a national study as one of the top 5 cities in the UK to start a new business. SPARK Hub boasts an enviable reputation offering both social and economic value not only to the city of Wolverhampton but also to the dynamic entrepreneurs who choose to make it their business headquarters; one of its key priorities is to create an environment where new businesses thrive.

SPARK Hub has supported more than 200 new starts in the last 10 years, helping to launch numerous successful and sustainable companies, and thereby contributing to a rise in employment opportunities in the region.

The facilities and services provided at SPARK are incomparable to other workspaces in the area, with its close links to public transportation, the invaluable opportunity to work alongside other new starts, and programs specifically tailored to accommodate the needs of a start-up or early stage businesses in the creative, ICT and technology sectors. Being located at the Science Park also puts companies at the centre of a vibrant business community and

provides networking opportunities with the region’s best business support services such as Business Solutions, The Black Country Growth Hub and the Black Country Chamber of Commerce.

There are four types of flexible and cost effective business accommodation on offer, including broadband, a receptionist and company mailbox.

The studio workstations are available to rent from £60 per month inclusive of VAT, there are co-working spaces, fully furnished, contemporary styled offices for 1 person or more, and an Associate Membership for companies requiring more flexibility with office accommodation. In addition to the competitive rental rates, our resident companies receive ongoing business support from our highly skilled SPARK team.

If you are considering starting a business, or looking for premises to start or grow an existing business, please contact us via our website, email, or speak to one of our team to book a viewing, come and be a part of our growing business community.

SPARK Business Incubation Hub www.sparkspace.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

01902 837400

enquiries@sparkspace.co.uk

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by Helen Taylor

Meet the boss

Deborah Mitchell’s Journey to Success The road to success in business is far from easy, as Deborah Mitchell discovered when she set out on a journey to launch her now iconic skincare range, Heaven.

In this exclusive interview, Deborah reveals how she created her unique brand, took the beauty industry by storm and earned a legion of celebrity fans on her way to becoming a global success.

A driving ambition was there right from the start when, aged 17, she joined Tettenhall-based hair salon Mr Nicholas.

“Although I’m a sensitive person, I’ve always been incredibly ambitious and keen to move on to bigger, better things,” explains Deborah.

And it was this ambition that pushed her to leave to set up as a mobile beautician.

“I knew what I needed to cover my mortgage and quickly picked up several clients, but because I had little money to buy products, I decided to make my own.”

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Her clients were delighted with her homemade products and soon Deborah was inundated with customers.

“When I created my After Soother cream – which calmed inflamed skin – I decided to send it off to be professionally packaged. When I got the finished product back I excitedly showed my then husband, who was less than interested, so, I decided to throw him out.”

Ending her marriage meant Deborah faced new challenges.

“I couldn’t afford to pay the mortgage on my own, so I rented the house out to a lovely Chinese businessman named Henry, who shared a great deal of business knowledge with me, and moved back in with my parents.”

More motivated than ever and keen to transform her situation, Deborah began working even harder and became ever more focused on the business.

“To focus my mind I’d often ‘imagine my mountain’; thinking about where I wanted to be and how I could achieve my goals.”

With her business expanding, Deborah needed to find a location to work from.

“I needed a treatment room, so I started treating clients at the Holiday Inn, unfortunately, the only space available was their disabled toilet.”

Despite the less than ideal treatment room, Deborah made a massive success of her time there, ultimately earning £12,000 a month before the company decided to run the operation themselves.

In 1998 Deborah married her current husband, Chris Cox - the son of one of her former clients at Mr Nicholas - and moved to Oaken. The couple later had two children, Ella and Christopher.

“I opened my salon in Shifnal as I was about to give birth to my second child, I renovated the building but I couldn’t afford to install a staircase. Although my father-in-law offered to lend me the money, I refused, knowing that facing difficult situations always made me come out fighting.”

In fact, Deborah thrived on the challenge: “I managed without a staircase for some time and wolverhampton west magazine

when I finally could afford one, it was incredibly rewarding.”

And there were similar challenges to come.

“The handmade bottles, used for one of my early products, leaked in transit to Hong Kong.

I purchased new packaging but again didn’t have enough money, so I re-mortgaged the house I rented out in Newport, bought a cheap house in Wellington and then remortgaged again to raise funds.”

The investment was worth it, as Victoria Beckham took notice of Deborah’s brand and became a massive fan.

“I was working at Beatties, doing treatments and selling my products from there – in fact I was supplying 16 of their stores. My brand was the highest earning on their beauty department, pulling in £10,000 a week, and Victoria Beckham often phoned up to purchase my products.”

Deborah’s Age Defiance cream was now gaining a massive following.

“The formula contains hydrochloric acid - effective at both treating spots and giving the skin a youthful look - so teenagers looked better and adults looked like teenagers.”

Business was booming but, as a result of carrying out so many treatments, Deborah injured her wrist.

“Obviously my hands are massively important, so at the time I insured them for £100,000. Now they’re insured for £15million, half the prorata turnover of the business.”

The Heaven name was starting to become known internationally and Deborah was invited to Dubai by a buyer.

“The buyer purchased £5,000 worth of products and paid for my flight. During that week in Dubai I made huge progress and was really able to take the brand forward.”

Premature ageing of the skin is inevitable for those living in a country that has an incredibly hot and humid climate, so when Deborah’s incredible antiageing range hit the market, it was a phenomenal success.

“On immediate contact with the skin my products make a remarkable difference to dehydrated, sun damaged skin, so everyone was interested.”

As a result, Heaven even caught the attention of the royal family of Dubai.

Back at home Deborah maintained the pace and continued to make products and promote the brand.

And, it wasn’t only the royal family of Dubai that were keen to find out more about Heaven.

“I had a phone call inviting me to Buckingham Palace to do a treatment for the Duchess of Cornwall, she was really impressed with the results and asked me to come back again.”

“Whilst I was treating Camilla I noticed that I had a prominent frown line and decided I needed to do something about it.”

Not keen to opt for Botox, Deborah instead decided to create her own solution.

“I focused my mind that evening and woke up in the morning with an idea; bee venom.”

Deborah’s sister kept bees, so she headed straight to the hive.

“There I found abeetoxin, a botulism toxin, which would relax the facial muscles.”

soon it became well known that I was doing the treatments.”

Everyone wanted a piece of the action and soon there were many copycat companies trying to recreate Deborah’s revolutionary product.

Even more interest developed in the Heaven brand and Deborah received a call from a buyer in China who wanted to buy her products.

“It turned out that the buyer’s father was the CEO of Shiseido.

I was able to strike-up a lucrative deal with them, thanks to the skills I learned from Henry.”

And Deborah’s products would make an appearance in hundreds of countries across the world in the years that followed.

“I was looking out of the window of my Marina Plaza office in Dubai when I remembered ‘my mountain’.

Although I’m somewhere near to where I wanted to be, I still feel that I’m only on the first step as there’s still plenty more to do.”

“My clients loved it, Camilla tried the treatment and she was really impressed too.”

As passionate as ever about the business, Deborah has recently created an exciting product using Heaven’s latest Prism Light Defiance TechnologyTM – Prism Age Defiance Cream, to help improve the DNA of the skin structure, boosting collagen and elastin to protect against UV rays that come from sunlight as well as infra-red (IR) light from computer, tablet and phone screens (VIS).

Deborah perfected the formula and her clients reported even more benefits from the product than expected.

“My latest product is perhaps the greatest I’ve ever created. It’s a natural sun filter - that’s organic and completely free of chemicals.”

“It wasn’t just proving to be an alternative to Botox, it was also healing skin and conquering allergies.”

Never before has the skincare industry seen a product that is activated when it comes into contact with spectrums of light.

Clients noticed their scars disappeared and they were able to keep breakouts at bay.

“The cream is a revolutionary anti-ageing moisturiser that generates smoother, tighter skin and reverses the signs of sun damage, something we never thought we could change!”

Along with Royal Jelly, another natural product found in the hive, Deborah created the product that she’s become best known for.

Not only did the treatment serve to fight the tell-tale signs of ageing but it also nourished and illuminated the skin.

“Gwyneth Paltrow started asking questions about bee venom and Victoria Beckham wanted to know why I hadn’t given her the product yet. Meanwhile I was still regularly treating the royal family.”

Even the press noticed that the Duchess of Cornwall was looking better than ever and they contacted the palace for comment.

As with all of Deborah’s products the results are amazing. Prism Technology even has its own App that can be downloaded using your mobile’s light to create a home facial. It is available from the App Store and Google Play.

“When I saw that the press had got hold of the story, I knew it hadn’t come from me. It turned out that the palace had told them – as they never lie to reporters - so

Thanks to Deborah and her outstanding range of products, we can all hold back the years and enjoy looking younger for longer.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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?

How secure are your Finchfield IT

pa sswo r d s ?

We keep hearing about not using the same password for different websites, but also not writing them down anywhere to help us remember them.

It’s a catch 22 situation, but how do you remember the different ones without writing them down? Password Managers are useful for this. LastPass is a useful online password manager. You just need a strong master password to set it up, then it generates and stores passwords for you. You can access the stored passwords from different browsers on different

computers, which is handy if you’re away and need to get access to something online.

If you’re unsure about the safety of using an online password manager you can use one on your computer. This will mean you can’t access the passwords on another computer, but if this suits you as you may not wish to access information from elsewhere, then PasswordSafe is an excellent free example to use.

Whichever way you decide to store your passwords, it is increasingly important to ensure they are complex and difficult to crack.

PC Support & Service

01902 578235 07775 700174 www..nchheldit.co.uk

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call-out charge

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Repairs Install Websites Parts Sales Support

Call Finchheld IT

MUSIC 2000 specialises in keyboards, digital pianos, guitars, drums etc. Together with associated accessories. Also boasting a vast stock of music books, all of which are available on our full e-commerce 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) 345999.

Owner Steve Flaherty added “I don’t mind admitting that trade has been pretty awful throughout April, May and June. This is due to major roadworks directly outside and to the right of MUSIC 2000, all the businesses in our area have been badly affected. Hopefully when you read this, the disruption has disappeared and we can resume normal service”. Open Tuesday to Saturday 9 am to 5 pm.

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96 Windmill Lane, Castlecroft, Wolverhampton WV3 8HG

NEW ‘Bring your own dishes’ service We will fill your dishes with delicious meals prepared fresh in our kitchen using Poxon’s quality meats

Quality Butchers Tel: 01902 761693

www.poxonsbutchers.co.uk

Dishes include: Lasagne / Cannelloni / Meatballs / Quiches We also make sweet pies.

We now have Staffordshire spring lambs in stock

Specialists in high quality British meat for over 50 years Comprehensive range of pork pies using the finest ingredients

Perton & Bridgnorth travel • Mercedes Viano 7 seater & Range Rover available with DVD entertainment • All airports, seaports, days/nights out, corporate functions, social & sporting events and weddings • Wolverhampton, Bridgnorth & all surrounding areas • 24 hours a day, 365 days a year • No journey too far or too short • Very competitive prices • Reliable and always on time

We are CUrrentlY looKing For eXPerienCed driverS, PleaSe ContaCt US on 07807 123688 For More inForMation

Mobile: 07807 123688

email: enquiries@perton-bridgnorth-travel.com

www.perton-bridgnorth-travel.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

69

Halfpenny Green Vineyards On Saturday 10th June Halfpenny Green Wine Estate held their second annual Food & Wine Festival, a free event celebrating the local and British products sold in the shop and the wine made in the on-site winery.

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The public came out in droves to enjoy a lovely day in South Staffordshire amongst the vines tasting wines, beers, gins and liqueurs, as well as a range of food, snacks and confectionery all sold in the Wine Estate’s shop and Wine Loft.

Visitors also enjoyed a chance to explore the 15 plus bespoke and artisan businesses in the on-site Craft Centre, as well as WILD Zoological Park, one of the latest additions to the site, featuring a range of exotic animals from all over the world.

wolverhampton west magazine

Codsall declared sausage capital of the UK Allan Bennett has won yet another national competition from the Q Guild of Butchers.

The Codsall butcher was crowned national champion at the BBQ Awards for their outstanding Sunshine Sausages.

The competition, which took place at Eastwood Hall in Nottinghamshire, saw the butcher walk away with the prize in the speciality sausage category.

The butcher beat a host of other butchers from across the country to

take the prize at the awards dinner at the Nottingham hotel.

The judges, who included David Hughes from UK BBQ Magazine, commented on Allan Bennett’s speciality sausages: “The Sunshine Sausage was a clear winner in its category for its exceptional combination of flavours, complementing the meat perfectly and texture. It cooked well and looked good too.”

Winning butcher, Allan Bennett, was delighted with the award: “We love to experiment with unique and interesting flavour combinations which we think will appeal to our customers and we are thrilled that the judges liked our Sunshine Sausage as much as we do! The sausage has been specially developed for the BBQ as it’s guaranteed to bring a little bit of sunshine whatever the weather!”

The BBQ Awards are held annually and are open to any of the 100

plus members of the Q Guild of Butchers throughout the UK. The seven regional heats, which took place in March, April and early May covering Scotland, Wales, South, North East, North West, East and Midlands, each delivered one winner for the national finals. The six BBQ product categories were steak (prepared using only salt and pepper), traditional sausage, burger, speciality sausage, speciality burger and speciality BBQ product.

The winning sausages, as well as a variety of other products for the BBQ are available from the shop.

Allan Bennett Ltd, Wolverhampton WV8 1BX www.allanbennettbutchers.co.uk

A member of the Guild of Q Butchers Quite simply, this means that Allan Bennett is one of the best butchers in Britain. Quality is our number one priority, and we are committed to preserving the skills passed down through generations of traditional craftsmen.

At Allan Bennett’s we produce all our products using the best English meat, which is bought from Bridgnorth market every Tuesday.

This means that all of our meat has full traceability, and guarantees you top quality meat from local farmers.

In short, you can’t buy better!

Perfect pastry aids top triumph Allan Bennett beat more than 200 competitors in the Meat Traders Journal Pork Pie contest in Bolton. Judges were impressed by the meaty contents of the pie and the perfectly produced pastry. Steven said: “The ingredients we use in the pies has been the key and it feels fantastic to have won first prize”.

Allan Bennett Ltd, 15 Station Road, Codsall. WV8 1BX Tel: 01902 842204 Open 6 days a week : Monday to Friday 7am-5.30pm, Saturday 7am-5pm www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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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.

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*over a 2 month period

wolverhampton west magazine

Wolverhampton’s premier independent 4 star hotel A multi-million pound refurbishment has been recognised by the AA who have awarded The Mount Hotel 4 stars.

The Grade II listed manor house has been tastefully renovated with modern en-suite facilities, offering a variety of accommodation choices.

To arrange a viewing please call our sales team on 01902 752055.

01902 752055 | sales@themount.co.uk | www.themount.co.uk

Savoury Summer Offers AFTERNOON TEA Join us in our beautiful gardens this summer for a traditional afternoon tea. £17.95 per person £19.95 Prosecco £23.95 Champagne

LUNCH Experience our double Rosette eatery, The Drawing Room, with our summer lunch offers. £16.95 two courses £18.95 three courses Don’t forget to book your place for

Follow us

Christmas 2017!

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

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Summer – the most important season at

Halfpenny Green Wi n e E s t a t e To complement a visit, guests are also invited to dine in the Wine Estate’s restaurant and tea room.

All food is prepared on-site and cooked fresh to order by a team of chefs, served to your table by waiting staff. Featuring a full mains menu served daily 12PM-3:30PM, as well as daily and Sunday specials, breakfasts, cream teas, cakes, drinks and high teas, the tranquil site near Wombourne is the perfect destination for a full three course meal, or even just a quick bite this summer.

As the sun pokes its head out, and the Great British public grab the sun cream and head outside, the staff at Halfpenny Green Wine Estate will be hard at work.

July and August are the two biggest growing months for vineyards across the U.K., typically seeing the highest temperatures and sunshine levels of the year – all leading to bigger, juicier grapes, perfect for producing high quality wines.

Halfpenny Green isn’t just working hard to produce internationally award-winning wines, though.

Announced late May, the Wine Estate are now proud owners of a Silver Medal in the International Wine Challenge Cellar Door competition, which judges estates and vineyards based on their overall visitor experience – no small feat given that Halfpenny

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Green were the only destination to win an award outside of the South East of England.

Up for critique in particular were the Wine Estate’s on-site shop and Wine Loft, which offer visitors a unique insight into the English wines grown and produced entirely on the 30 acre South Staffordshire site.

A selection of the Halfpenny Green’s wines are available to the public for free sampling 7 days a week. For a more in-depth approach, guests can enjoy full wine tasting experiences - complete with cheese and a self-guided trail of the vineyard - whilst overlooking the serene Staffordshire countryside. Or, new for 2017, the Wine Loft now offers gin tasting experiences, complementing the shop’s range of 70+ handcrafted British gins.

The Wine Estate also offers guided tours of the vineyard and winery for those keen to learn more about winemaking in the English climate – including a tasting and a two course meal! Tours are available for booking on selected dates throughout the year; upcoming dates include Thursday 7th September and Thursday 5th October. Private group tours are available to book for groups of 15 or more throughout the year.

‘Wine Estate’ isn’t just a fancy term for a vineyard, though, as the site is also home to a bustling craft centre with over 15 artisan businesses, all offering bespoke services. A great place to pick up a special or commissioned gift, or simply just indulge your hobbies, the craft centre wonderfully complements the site’s intimate feel.

Opened in 2016, WILD Zoological Park is one of the newest additions to the site. Showcasing a range of animals from all over the world, featuring daily shows and feeding times, it’s the perfect way for the whole family to spend a day together.

Halfpenny Green Wine Estate is open 7 days a week, 9AM5PM. If you’re looking for a different day out, pop along to the South Staffordshire site. With something for all ages and appetites, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate is the perfect summer destination.

wolverhampton west magazine

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

AWARD-WINNING ENGLISH WINES

LOCAL PRODUCE SHOP & DELI

RENOWNED RESTAURANT & TEA ROOMS

U P COM I NG E V E N TS

public tours

(by booking only) Thur 7th Sept Thur 5th Oct

à la carte evening

Wine & Gin Tastings

Friday 15th Sept

in the Wine Loft throughout the year

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

75

Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant Established 1989

Air conditioned

Cuisine of Bengal

Fully licensed

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

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

Restaurant of the year West Midlands region 2016

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

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

Open 7 days including Bank Holidays 5.30pm until 11.30pm

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

Tel: 01902 324148 / 324437 High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DN

facebook.com/wombourne.tandoori

www.wombournetandoori.com

The Park house hoTel Shifnal www.parkhousehotel.net

2 for 1

on Sunday Lunch Book a table in our restaurant for a traditional 3 course Sunday Lunch for only £24.95 and receive another 3 course lunch FREE* *Valid until December 31st 2017. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. Not valid for private dining or for bookings of more than 6 people. Valid only when 3 courses are purchased.

To reserve a table please call The Park House Hotel on: 01952 460128 The Park House Hotel, Park Street, Shifnal, Telford, TF11 9BA reservations@parkhousehotel.net

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CHRISTMAS 2017

MERRY HILL December 2017 is full of Festive Joy at The Copthorne Hotel, Merry Hill.

The banqueting suites and our beautiful Faradays restaurant will be themed to suit and whether you’re interested in a Joiner Party Night or a Private Function, we’ll cater for your festive requirements.

To request our full brochure please contact events.merryhill@millenniumhotels.co.uk Early Bird Offer: 20% discount on off peak nights, including 1st & 2nd December when booking before the 31st August 2017

EARLS SUITE PARTY NIGHTS Premium Magical Christmas Party Nights with Live Singer: Friday 1st December Saturday 2nd December Friday 8th December

£48 pp £48 pp £48 pp

Saturday 9th December Friday 15th December Saturday 16th December

£48 pp £48 pp £48 pp

Off Peak Magical Christmas Party Nights: Sunday 10th December Sunday 17th December Monday 18th December Tuesday 19th December

£34 pp £34 pp £28 pp £28 pp

Wednesday 20th December £28 pp Friday 22nd December £28 pp Saturday 23rd December £28 pp

All Inclusive Magical Christmas Party Nights: Thursday 14th December Thursday 21st December

£49 pp £49 pp

all inclusive drinks include selected draught beer, house wines, house spirits and soft drinks* All party nights include a set 3 course menu, disco and novelties.

Timings: 18:45 - Arrival | 19:45 - Sit down for dinner | 12:30 - Carriages

CASLON SUITE PARTY NIGHTS Premium Hollywood Party Nights: Friday 1st December Saturday 2nd December Friday 8th December

£42 pp £42 pp £42 pp

Saturday 9th December Friday 15th December Saturday 16th December

£42 pp £42 pp £42 pp

All party nights include a set 3 course menu, disco and novelties.

Timings: 18:30 - Arrival | 19:15 - Sit down for dinner | 12:30 - Carriages

FARADAYS RESTAURANT PARTY NIGHTS Premium Winter Wonderland Party Nights: Friday 1st December Saturday 2nd December Friday 8th December

£38 pp £38 pp £38 pp

Saturday 9th December Friday 15th December Saturday 16th December

£38 pp £38 pp £38 pp

All party nights include a 3 course carvery style meal, disco and novelties.

Timings: 18:30 - Arrival | 19:30 - Sit down for dinner | 12:30 - Carriages

The Waterfront, Level Street, Brierley Hill, West Midlands DY5 1UR www.millenniumhotels.com Tel: 01384 482882 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

77

The Cowshed

Pat t i n g h a m So then: happenstance has it that tonight is our first ‘opportunity’. And we are not disappointed. Located on Clive Road, just outside the centre of Pattingham’s village idyll; a working farm setting nestled along the kind of sinuous country lane that has made keen bikers flock to the area in their droves for decades every Wednesday evening in summer and occupying a site belonging to a former dairy, The Cowshed is the perfect answer to the issue of where to eat next. And I’m really in the moo-d to eat.

By Rob Taylor Today we are overwhelmed with eating out options. We are lucky enough to be accustomed to having our every whim and fancy attended to and then some. Often for many of us the biggest crimp in our day is choosing where to eat out that evening – or more specifically, whether to stick with local stalwarts or venture further afield.

These are undoubtedly First World issues, but issues all the same.

One of the joys of being Wolverhampton West’s trusty restaurant critic is that I’m often required to travel to fill my stomach, 78

often to places previously never considered. However that isn’t the case tonight because The Cowshed in Pattingham is a restaurant that has been on the radar of my long-suffering girlfriend Nicola and I for some time.

Word-of-mouth recommendations always carry greatest significance in my book. I don’t read TripAdvisor reviews because I don’t trust strangers. To me it’s imperative that I’m able to, first and foremost, weigh up the person who is pronouncing upon the subject – after all, some people lovingly endorse fast food outlets, whereas I revile them – so when I hear from a number of “approved” people that The Cowshed is a must-visit destination, I sit up and take notice.

Admittedly it’s fair to say – and believe me on many occasions Nicola has – that I’m rather slow off the mark but in my defence, I always like to “try before I buy”.

Arriving to find ample parking in an intimate courtyard area, Nicola and I soak up the last vestiges of the unseasonably hot weather before peeking inside the deceptively spacious building. We immediately receive a warm welcome from owner Will Guy – and are shown to our table. The Cowshed is a thoroughly contemporary space strewn with clever touches that celebrate the history of the building – there is the obligatory bovine caricature art on the walls (a particular favourite of mine is a heifer homage to Vermeer’s ‘Girl with the Pearl Earring’), milk bucket lampshades above the bar and lots of genuinely rustic touches in the shape of original beams etc. In a world stuffed full of faux-corporate ‘rustic’, real rustic stands out a mile.

So too does the food… or so I’m told. Needless to say we excitedly place our order from an a la carte

wolverhampton west magazine

cake, dolcelatte, red onion chutney and a red wine jus’ (£16.95).

menu full of imaginative, modern British dishes, produced with locally-sourced ingredients, freshly cooked to order by Head Chef Joe Whitehouse. During our wait Nicola and I enjoy a bit of locationbased repartee, much to the dismay of any diners – and there are many, despite us visiting early in the mid-week – within earshot.

The gist of which is as follows: Me: “This evening is moo-ving along rather nicely, don’t you think?”

Nicola: “Oh you’ve already milked that one for all it’s worth.”

Me: “I believe you are udderly mistaken, my dear, I’m only skimming the surface…”

I’m pleased to report that the art of proper presentation is alive and well here. Each of the two mains are expertly sculpted by kitchen artisans. It pains us both to interfere with their artistry, but eat them we must. My steak is well-cooked and dripping with taste and flavour; the four onion rings are Olympian; the chips chunky, pillow-soft and achingly good. Even garnish is worth eating here, as I shall now demonstrate with dessert.

My ‘Cowshed raspberry and marshmallow cheesecake with white chocolate, raspberry and Oreo ice cream’ (£6.50) is plated with much aplomb, including an artful flourish of Physalis. I devour it with gusto and then tear through the assorted sugary delights like a child at Cadbury’s World. Nicola enjoys a ‘Cowshed rich chocolate brownie with Ferrero Rocher ice cream’ (£6.50) and judging by the number of moans emanating from her direction during this course, ‘enjoys’ is an understatement.

It’s difficult, however, to understate how thoroughly satisfied we both are now, after being fattened by suckling on the restaurant’s proverbial teat all evening. Our visit has been a pleasure from beginning to end.

The Cowshed is a cut above the rest – a restaurant that is well worth visiting as often as possible.

The Cowshed Restaurant, Clive Farm, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7DU. For table bookings please call 01902 701888. www.thecowshedrestaurant.co.uk

Nicola: “That’s pretty sour; I think this has reached its expiration date.

Hush now, the waiter is coming.”

We are pleasantly surprised to each receive a complimentary Leek and Potato soup, which is rich in flavour and colourfully presented.

Next up: starters. I’m eating ‘Panseared tiger prawns with garlic and chilli butter and dipping ciabatta’ (£10.50) and Nicola is tucking into ‘Thai fishcakes with leaves and a sweet chilli dressing’ (£9.25).

Both dishes are piping hot and speedily dispatched by friendly, competent waiting staff. Straight away I’m dunking my warm ciabatta into the heady blend of garlic and chilli butter. Then I make a play for the prawns like a man possessed.

Each succulent crustacean is juicer than the last. “If only there were more!”, I ask, before being chastened by Nicola, who is keen to point out that I still have to come a prime cut of English ‘8 oz Fillet Steak with hand-cut chips, roasted vine tomatoes, pan fried mushrooms, crispy onion rings’ (£26.95), with an additional Stilton Top (£2.00).

She eagerly awaits a ‘Pan-seared chicken breast with breaded potato www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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The Oakley Arms Brewood

Welcome to The Oakley Arms Sitting on the outskirts of Brewood, our pub is well within the hearts of locals who drop by on horseback, bicycle or with their dogs during countryside rambles.

We are lucky enough to have the most fabulous lake, which can be seen from many of the pub’s rooms; and is flanked by our stone terrace which is the most wonderful place to dine on sunny days.

We like to think of ourselves as a charming pub with well-spaced rooms, wooden floors and roaring fires; as well as a well-stocked bar at the centre of all things and a beautiful garden room filled with light.

We hope to see you soon.

Tel: 01902 859 800 • www.oakleyarms.co.uk Kiddemore Green Lane, Brewood, ST19 9BQ Email: oakley@brunningandprice.co.uk

Main Menu available everyday from 12 noon until 10pm

Thursdays

Steak Night Fridays

Fish and Fizz Bank Holiday Sunday 27th August

Garden Beach Themed Party with music from 2pm

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.

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wolverhampton west magazine

Clive Farm, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7DU

For a meal to remember!

Special Offer

20% Off*

Evening A la Carte Menu Lunch Menu 2 courses £14.99 | 3 courses £19.99 Sunday Lunch 2 courses £19.99 - 3 courses £24.99

Your total bill When you presen t this advert

*Offer valid Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings for up to a max of 8 people throughout July and August 2017 when you present this advert, no photocopies.

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

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Wedded Bliss

at The Park House Hotel The Park House Hotel in Shifnal has always been a popular choice for those looking for something special when choosing a Wedding Venue and we think their new photoshoot really reveals why!

The Wedding co-ordinator at the Park House, Ross Price, recently organised what can only be described as a truly amazing day, showcasing all that this venue has to offer. Working closely with only the very best suppliers that the area has to offer, Ross co-ordinated a whole day’s worth of preparation, decoration and photography, to give all potential wedding couples the chance to glimpse inside their dream day.

“Choosing a wedding venue without seeing how amazing it can look on the day is like buying a wedding gown without trying it on first” Ross says. “We believe that every couple have a unique vision about how their wedding can and should look, but sometimes people need some help and inspiration to really achieve that ultimate end goal. We think

that by getting the Hotel dressed and showing it to its very best potential it shows people just how fabulous their day can be” The photoshoot was so successful in-fact that on-line wedding experts ‘hitched.co.uk’ have exclusively featured it on their website branding it “A Pippa Middleton Inspired look”. The details of suppliers that worked with the Park House can all be found on the website and any of them would be happy to help couples who want to try and re-create the look.

With dates remaining for 2018 and taking bookings as far as 2021, The Park House’s wedding reputation just keeps on growing. If you are interested in viewing the Hotel and the facilities on offer you can make an appointment with Ross by calling the hotel on 01952 460128. The Hotel also offer a ‘Showcase Sunday Open Day’ most weekends, with the chance to drop in and see the hotel set for a wedding. Be sure to like and follow their facebook page for the dates that the open days take place.

With a picturesque setting, the grandest of backdrops and the meticulous approach to planning a wedding, we think that the Park House Hotel in Shifnal would be the ideal choice for a perfect Shropshire wedding. For more pictures and a peek inside, take a look at the website at www.parkhousehotelshifnal.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine

The Park house hoTel Shifnal www.parkhousehotel.net

Where elegance meets luxury A bespoke planning service, tailored to suit you as a couple, The Park House Hotel in Shifnal has the very best to offer for your Wedding.

Dates ing remain and 7 for 201 aking t 2018 - s for booking 21 up to 20

Wedding Fayre Sun 3rd September 11am - 4pm, free entry

For further details please contact our sales team on 01952 460128 email: weddings@parkhousehotel.net visit: www.parkhousehotelshifnal.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk The Park House Hotel,

Park Street, Shifnal, Telford TF11 9BA

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Bee-autiful prizes

for bee-autiful people

From selling beauty treatments in a converted toilet at the Holiday Inn Telford to having her products stocked on shelves in the Big Apple; entrepreneur Deborah Mitchell is now the buzzing owner of a £33 million turnover luxury skincare company.

ingredients combined to work in synergy; coupled with Deborah’s own massage techniques the Bee Sting Facial provides you with the botox effect without needles.

1

st

runner up prize

only excellent results. It’s a nontime consuming experience that is suitable for all skin types and different parts of the body.

2nd runner up prize

Renowned for her bee-venom range which contains the patented formula; Abeetoxin® and her highprofile clients, Deborah’s empire is only going from strength to strength.

Her award-winning, regenerating products range from natural alternatives to Botox to innovative inventions that reverse the effects of sun damage.

This month we have teamed up with Deborah Mitchell to give 3 lucky readers the chance of winning one of these fabulous prizes.

1st prize

Do you want to slim, tighten or smooth? Lipolis7, Heaven’s newest innovation, provides weight loss and skin rejuvenation from one single comprehensive treatment.

Non-invasive with no side effects,

Has the sun got the better of you? Well it’s time to rewind…

The second runner up will win our exclusive Age Defiance Cream with new groundbreaking Prism Technology, pioneered by Deborah and she wants to shout it from the rooftops. Never before has the skincare industry seen a product that is activated when it comes into contact with spectrums of light.

The cream is a revolutionary anti-ageing moisturiser that generates smoother, tighter skin and reverses the signs of sun damage, something we never thought we could change! Not only has Deborah created the cream and the mask, she has created an app to bring the technology to you at home.

To be in with a chance of winning one of these fabulous prizes simply answer the following question:

All that glitters IS GOLD! You could be the lucky winner of a luxurious, anti-ageing Bee Sting Facial by Deborah herself, worth £400! Using the unique Gold Bee Venom Mask this will leave you looking and feeling younger. This treatment is the first of its kind and has been created using natural and organic 84

What beauty product is Deborah Mitchell renowned for?

Please email your answer to: info@wolverhamptonwestmag. co.uk or on a postcard to: Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY.

All entries to be received by Monday 21st August 2017.

Competition terms and conditions -Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and informed by telephone. To enter you must be aged 18 years or older. No cash or alternative prize will be given.

wolverhampton west magazine

Protect your eyes

this summer Spending time outdoors can be a great way to unwind during the longer summer days; be it on holiday on the beach, walking, sight-seeing or just spending more time in the garden.

We all know that our skin can burn in the sun, yet it is estimated that around 50% of people don’t protect their eyes by wearing sunglasses. (Even though our eyes are up to ten times more sensitive to ultraviolet rays than skin) UV is in the invisible part of the light spectrum therefore we can’t see it or feel it, but prolonged exposure has been linked to a range of vision problems such as cataract, pinguecula- harmless but unsightly yellow fatty deposits

in the white of the eye, eyelid skin cancer called basal cell carcinoma and development of macular degeneration. It is especially important to protect children’s eyes.

Because of larger pupils and clearer lenses, they are more susceptible to sun damage. Plus, despite children generally spending more time outdoors than adults, 70% of them still don’t wear sunglasses in the sun Even glasses with clear lenses can offer protection from UV eye damage. In fact, dark lenses which do not offer a sufficient level of UV protection can be more damaging because they cause the eye’s pupils to dilate providing a bigger window to allow UV in than if you had no sunglasses on.

Therefore when choosing sunglasses make sure that they carry a CE mark (a European standard of UV protection) or UV 400 sign.

Photochromic lenses offer great sun protection as they darken to a sunglasses tint when exposed to sunlight absorbing 100% of UV and return to a clear state when indoors, which means that you only need one pair - convenient for holidays and sightseeing trips.

Maui Jim sunglasses use supreme polarised technology which goes beyond shielding your eyes from glare and harmful UV to reveal and enhance the world’s true vivid colours in amazing detail.

A wide range of lenses finishes are available, such as Blue, Green, Rose mirror as well as more traditional grey and brown.

For more information please call Taylor Biddle opticians.

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

£15 upgrade to PhOTOChrOmiC (sun reactive) lenses with every purchase of a premium varifocal!

(Offer ends 31st August 2017 T&C’s apply)

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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ONE OF LIFE’S LUXURIES Royston Blythe, 36 Bridgnorth Road, Compton, Wolverhampton WV6 8AE Tel: 01902 751720 email: info@roystonblythe.co.uk www.roystonblythe.co.uk Royston Blythe 86

@RoystonBlythe

RoystonBlytheOfficial wolverhampton west magazine

Royston Blythe Warford Hall Nick Malenko, Ashley & Dawn Ward, Royston Blythe

Lauren, Boo, So phie, Jodie, Lisa, Abi (some of the RB team)

on

Nick, Patsy, Royst

usewives with The

The Cheshire Ho

Drifters

A glamorous congregation of 150 guests including close friends, clients and celebs joined together to celebrate the wedding blessing of Nick and Royston at the home of Dawn Ward, Warford Hall, Alderley Edge. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Nick, Claire Caudw

ell, Royston

In truly decadent surroundings, the guests were captivated by the phenomenal “Globe Girls” and the much loved “Drifters” serenading them down the aisle.

After the ceremony, the party continued well into the night, as guests enjoyed champagne and cocktails and a top DJ. The occasion was featured as the show finale on ITVBE`s “Real Housewives of Cheshire”.

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To me it’s science, to you it’s weightloss

by Deborah Mitchell

Summer’s here and you haven’t started that diet that you said you’d start every Monday, since Christmas. You think you need a face-lift.

You’re unhappy in your skin and you’re not quite ‘beach body ready.’

In just one treatment you will notice significant results to the firmness of your skin; not just all over your body but also on your face.

The Lipolis7 is also face friendly, meaning wrinkles and lines will appear reduced after one sitting.

making you look younger, healthier and feel happier. You’ll definitely be left wanting more.

The treatment is non-abrasive and rejuvenates your skin,

Book your first treatment now, you will not regret it.

I know what you’re thinking…

‘What about the side effects?’ I say ‘what side effects, there are none!’

Now that I’ve grabbed your attention, let me tell you how I can change all of the above in one single comprehensive treatment, with no needles or workouts involved!

There is so much pressure on women to diet and get that perfect ‘beach body’ but I’m going to tell you how I can help you lose weight without putting the hours in at the gym (there’s method to my madness)…

Lipolis7 is a slimming and skin rejuvenation device which is designed for spas, salons and home-use. ...First let’s talk about how Lipolis7 works for weight loss. Fat within the legs, abdomen and buttocks literally shrinks, as Lipolis7 collapses the fat; promoting your lymphatic system which in turn eliminates the toxins out of the body. To me it’s science, to you it’s weight loss.

After the fat is collapsed, radio frequency melts the fat further. The vacuum then speeds up your body’s metabolism, which in turn allows the fat in the cells to disperse.

It’s been proven to take inches off of waist lines, after just a few treatments. CELLULITE, BE GONE! ‘What about loose skin’ you ask?

‘Won’t I need a skin tuck now that the fats gone?’ No, as I said, I can change it all in one treatment.

The reason I created this machine is because I always hear about people being unhappy in their bodies, just as I was, or believing that plastic surgery and botox is the only route if you want to look younger.

They couldn’t be more wrong.

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wolverhampton west magazine

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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La Minky The Smooth Operators BARE TO BE DIFFERENT

One area we surpass in is our waxing treatments. We are specialists in all areas of waxing with particular knowledge in intimate hair removal. Our in house specialist June Laing (salon owner) has been a beauty therapist and owned her own business for over 10 years. During her career June branched out and made a move into the intimate waxing field and initially trained with Hive in Brazilian Bikini waxing and then in London with Kim Lawless waxer to the stars.

high quality wax. The range includes hypoallergenic waxes, moisturising natural waxes, strip and non-strip waxes, scented and unscented. The waxes are perfect for both male and female waxing treatments including intimate waxing.

We use non-strip waxing in the salon specifically for intimate hair removal as the waxes literally shrink wrap the hair, removing the entire hair with its roots from the follicle, leaving the skin undamaged. Since the wax sticks to the hair and not the skin it takes the smack like sting out of the process you get with strip waxing hair removal. We have found regular waxing with this method weakens and slows down hair regrowth and produces results that last longer.

With years of experience under her belt June has mastered technique and client comfort during waxing of all parts of the body. Much care has been put into the choice of products used for hair removal within the salon. In 2012 June registered with the Perrin Rigot Expert Network and has been using these waxes ever since. With 30 years of innovation Perron Rigot is a renowned French creator of

Due to the sensitive nature of intimate waxing we offer a free consultation prior to treatment and advice on any area of waxing you are concerned about. If you do decide to try intimate waxing we recommend you exfoliate gently 3 days prior to hair removal and allow the hairs to grow for a minimum of 4 weeks prior to treatment. On the day of treatment the skin is prepared with Blue Lotion, a low

Here at La Minky we pride ourselves on our professionalism and our high level of skilled treatments.

Intimate Waxing

Intimate Waxing

Treatments for Ladies

inner and outer labia and buttock crease. Buttocks if necessary.

The Squirrel – £16.50

The Mink – £38.50

The Coyote – £38.50

This is my version of the “Hollywood” All the hair is removed from the pubic triangle, inner and outer labia, buttock crease and buttocks.

The Lynx – £44.50

Hair is removed from panty line and crease of leg.

The Tanuki – £22.00 Hair is removed from side panels, going narrower inside the panty line and across the top of the pubic triangle.

The Chinchilla – £27.50 This is my version of the “Brazilian”. Hair is removed from the pubic triangle leaving a (one or two finger) landing strip,

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alcohol cleanser especially recommended for delicate areas and sensitive skin, before adding a few drops of Jasmine Oil to ensure the wax clings to the hairs and not the skin. After treatment the waxed area is to be kept clean, avoiding heat and friction for 24-48 hours. We advise that you do not apply any deodorants, body sprays, make-up, perfume or lotions to the waxed area during that period.

However we do recommend the use of Lemon Myrtle multi-purpose liquid soap (sold in salon) to tackle possible ingrowing hairs and post waxing irritation.

It is made from all natural ingredients, suitable for sensitive skin, contains Lemon Myrtle essential oils, has 30% more antibacterial properties than T-tree oil and can be used as an invigorating body wash that cleanses and protects the skin. Finally a few days after your appointment gently exfoliate up to 3 times a week, moisturise every day to keep skin soft and smooth.

Vajazzles are available as an optional extra. Please note; gems are fun only.

Treatments for Men Hair removed from buttocks and buttock crease.

Hair removed from the penis, pouch and pubic triangle.

The Grey Fox – £55.00 Hair removed from the penis, pouch, buttocks, buttock crease and pubic triangle.

The Silver Fox – £77.00 Hair removed from the penis, pouch, buttocks,

buttock crease, pubic triangle and full back.

The Blue Fox – £82.50 Hair removed from the penis, pouch, buttocks, buttock crease, pubic triangle, chest, abs and upper arms.

The Sly Fox from £135.00 Hair removed from full body (consultation is essential).

Due to the sensitive nature of intimate waxing treatments, please feel free to contact us and discuss any questions you may have.

wolverhampton west magazine

Let us make you feel wonderful this Summer with our fabulous offers Please bring this advert to the salon to qualify for the below offers.

Salon La Mink Hair Salon Offer

For that silky straight hair you’ve dreamed of.

Lisse Design Keratin Offer For only £99.99.

Pre-wedding Stress Buster Package

Feel relaxed, pampered, fabulous and ready for your big day!

Follow us

LaMinky

Includes Back exfoliation, back massage & Luxury Facial for £65 (pre-offer price for all treatments £85).

Spoil yourself with a relaxing Swedish Back massage & back of legs massage £25 (pre offer price for both treatments £35)

10% OFF Intimate Waxing All offers run till the 31st July 2017.

Telephone 01543 500 340 www.salonlamink.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Dawtry Stables, Dawtry Farm, Watling Street Hatherton, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 1SD

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Image chauffeur driven luxury cars and minibuses Luxury Cars - Gold Service

Real people, real support, real results Struggling with your weight?

Our fleet of vehicles includes a 5 seater Jaguar XJ, a 7 seater Mercedes R Class and a 9 seater executive minibus (Luxury trailer also available for extra luggage)

Luxury travel for all occasions • Wedding Hire • Airport Transfers • Sea Ports • Evening Events

and any other Special Occasion...

A luxury service that is more affordable than you think, call for a free quote...

Contact: Keith Warner on 01902 847145 or 07772 605764 E: enquiries@imageluxurycars.co.uk

www.imageluxurycars.co.uk

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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Consultant to "Man of the Year" Slimmer Finalist 2016/17

CWPLouisePeck

Multi Award Winning Team

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Louise Peck

t: 07790 982 888

e: loupeck1@googlemail.com

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.

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• 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

wolverhampton west magazine

3D-Lipomed at

Cosmetique

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

Radio frequency is incorporated into the treatment to start tightening up the skin.

“The machine also has duo Cryolipolysis, which is a system that freezes fat cells, allowing them to be drained out of the body through the lymphatic system.”

The treatments are planned around the individual needs of the client, utilising each of the systems to achieve optimum results.

Owner, Suky Chana, recently introduced 3D-Lipomed – a brand new 3D treatment.

As Suky explains: “The 3D-Lipomed is an upgraded device to 3D Lipo and it’s only available in aesthetic clinics.

It’s a powerful machine that nonsurgically removes fat cells, treats cellulite and provides skin tightening for the face and body. Clients have seen staggering skin tone, fat reduction and weight-loss results, an ideal way to get into shape after over indulging during the festive season”.

The process begins with Cavitation, a non-invasive contouring body treatment for localised fat and cellulite.

Although every treatment is bespoke, each session has a fixed price of £150.

“We use each of the different methods available from the 3D-Lipomed machine to achieve the best results for our clients and work to a set price for each session.”

Most people need an average of six to eight sessions, one each week.

“You can get a beach body in only eight weeks with our amazing treatment and you don’t even need to exercise, just attend the clinic each week. It is important to eat sensibly

though if you really want to maximise the results from the treatment.”

By introducing 3D-Lipomed to the clinic, the team at Cosmetique have made it easy for you to get the body you’ve always wanted.

So, why not book in for a treatment today?

3D –LIPOMED SPECIAL OFFER Package price only £79 per treatment.

Available throughout July and August 2017.

1 off treatment remain at £150.

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 August £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)

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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H o l i day

-ready beauty If it’s nearly time to jet off on your summer holiday then it’s time to book in at the salon and treat yourself to some pre-holiday pampering to make sure you’re ready to hit the beach.

Silky smooth skin First things first, the summer is here so it’s essential to keep on top of any unsightly body hair and visit the salon for regular waxing sessions.

Before – and in-between – appointments make sure that you’re exfoliating your skin to avoid ingrowing hairs. Moisturising is really important too, but don’t forget to give the moisturiser a miss on the day of your appointment.

Fake a tan The last thing you want to do when you touch down in your holiday destination is step of the plane looking pale and washed out, so make sure you’ve been for a professional spray tan before you leave the UK. For best results and a lasting finish, wax – or shave - at least 24 hours before your appointment. Waxing is definitely the best choice for hair removal if you’re fake tanning, as hair that’s shaved grows back quickly and if you shave too soon after your tan you’ll remove the golden hue you’ve put on.

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Image Courtesy of Monsoon

Not properly removing hair before a fake tan will mean that colour will cling to the follicle and leave a dotty and uneven finish.

Exfoliate the night before your appointment to create a smooth base for your tan. Keep skin free of all moisturiser, perfume and deodorant on the day of your appointment and don’t forget to bring loose fitting clothing to change into afterwards.

Now your feet are looking fabulous it’s time for a manicure.

Long nails look gorgeous painted in a bold hue and paired with tanned skin.

Head-turning hair

Treat your feet

Your hair really takes a battering in the summer months, especially if you’re on the beach and in and out the pool, so preparation is essential if you want to avoid frazzled locks when you get home.

It’s easy to overlook your nails but if you’re hitting the beach or slipping on a pair of sandals, then perfectly painted toe nails are essential.

Leading up to your vacation deep condition your hair regularly and make sure that you book in at the salon for regular trims.

In fact, feet need a real treat at this time of year, so book in for pedicure and make pampering your feet a part of your everyday beauty routine.

After your holiday you can help to repair your hair and get a glossy finish with a professional Olaplex treatment at the hair salon. wolverhampton west magazine

Creating beautiful looking hair Modern, stylish and offering clients – of all ages – the best in cutting and colouring techniques. Leading the way in both ladies and gents styling, the salon is still drawing in new clients, whilst taking good care of

its original clientele. The friendly, professional team offer a complimentary consultation.

We caught up with Jodie Mason, salon owner and Laura Fellows, Senior Designer to find out more about two of the team behind the business.

Questions

Answers

1. Who inspires you?

Jodie Mason, Owner

2. What’s your favourite place?

1. My mom and dad

3. What’s your favourite meal?

2. Majorca

2. Mexico

4. What do you love about your job?

3. Paella

3. Roast dinner

4. Creating new looks for my clients and meeting new people everyday

4. Colouring

5. What’s your favourite product?

6. How long have you worked at salon 27?

7. What do you look forward to this year?

8. What do you do in your spare time?

9. What’s the look this season you love?

Laura Fellows, Senior Designer 1. Guy Tang

5. Paul Mitchell

5. Bio in 3D thickening spray

Super Sculpt

6. 7 years

6. 4 years

7. Enjoying being engaged and planning our wedding

7. Getting married

8. Relax and enjoy spending time with my family

8. Socialising

9. I love the new Wella contouring technique, bronze, rose gold tones

9. Long bobs(lob) brondie soft tones

Special offer for all new clients

CUT & FINISH ONLY £20 July offer

LUXURY TREATMENT & BLOW-DRY £40 NOW ONLY £22.50 Salon 27 are a unisex salon and have a monthly offer throughout the year, even one for the kids!

Half price colour To book an appointment please call on: every Wed & Thurs with selected stylists.

Kids cut offer every www.salon27wolverhampton.co.uk Monday 3pm-5pm Find us on Facebook: Salon 27 unisex hairsalon. 65 Wakeley Hill, Penn, Wolverhampton, WV4 5BA

(01902) 836565

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

August offer

KIDS CUTS ONLY £5

under 12 years, dry cuts only

Opening times:

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

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FEEL GOOD THIS

S U M M ER

• • • • •

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Gyms Exercise Classes Studio Cycling and My Ride Swimming Toning Suites

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

Prices start from £20 per month for access to all areas, plus use of 4 leisure centres for 1 great price

Penkridge Leisure Centre: 01785 714152

•

Free Health Checks

•

Free Personal Fitness Programme

NEED CHILDCARE THIS SUMMER?

•

Personal Training Available

•

Discounts for students and Apprentices

•

Forward to Health Scheme for people with medical conditions

Wombourne Leisure Centre: 01902 898202

South Staffordshire Council Council’s leisure centres are providing fullday and half-day activity camps in conjunction with one of the UKs leading childcare providers ‘Fit for Sport’. Give your children access this summer to make new friends and learn the importance of being fit and healthy! BOOK NOW

NO Joining fee NO long term commitment NO cancellation fee

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SSES • A L C E S I XERC RIDE Y G Y M S •E M • G C YC L I N STUDIO MMING I W S • E SUIT TO N I N G

GET YOUR SUMMER BODY IN PROGRESS CALL NOW Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre 01922 417790 Codsall Leisure Centre 01902 844032

Penkridge Leisure Centre 01785 714152 Wombourne Leisure Centre 01902 898202

LEISURE www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Stunning Swimwear

By Helen Taylor If your summer holiday is just around the corner, it’s time to find a super-flattering swimwear look that’ll make you look and feel – amazing whether you’re lounging on the beach or taking a dip in the pool.

And, whatever your figure, it’s easier than you think to find something stunning.

Here are our top tips: Try Something New Forget sticking to the same old ‘safe’ style that you’re used to and instead try a different silhouette.

‘Leisou’ Bikini Top £32 ‘Leisou’ Bikini Bottoms £18 Both Figleaves

There are plenty of different designs that are cut to flatter: halter necks, Bardotstyles, cut-outs and lace-up designs all serve to enhance your best features.

Boost Your Confidence With so many cleverly designed swimsuits on the high street, it’s easy to find something that’ll take care of all your body-baring concerns.

If you’re conscious of your tummy try a structured style that’s complete with hidden support or boost your bust by choosing an uplifting and shaping design.

Embrace a Bold Look If you always opt for black, try a bright hue instead this summer. Bold colours and striking patterns look amazing when teamed with tanned skin and are perfect for the beach.

What’s more, they’ll make you look really youthful too.

‘Mayan’ Swimsuit £40 Figleaves

Add Accessories Accessories are a must when it comes to styling a glamorous beachwear look. Sunglasses, a sun hat, a beach bag and a classy cover-up will complete your swimwear style perfectly.

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wolverhampton west magazine

Swimsuit £35 River Island

Bikini Set £15 Very

Sarong £12 Simply Be

Bikini £42 Butterfly by Matthew Williamson at Debenhams

‘Thelma’ Motif Swimsuit £39 Monsoon

Bikini Top £14 Bikini Bottoms £12 Dorothy Perkins

Hat £22 Accessorize

Beach Bag £55 White Stuff Halterneck Swimsuit £18 Tu at Sainsburys

Kaftan £8 Primark at T.A.Henn, Wolverhampton

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Children’s swimming lessons with

WV Active

Swim School

Is it time for your child to start swimming lessons but you’re not sure where to start?

Sending children to their first swimming lesson can sometimes be a nerve-racking experience for both parents and children. At WV Active Swim School, we’re here to put you at ease and look after your child every step of the way.

Swimming lessons take place at two of our leisure centres: WV Active Central in Wolverhampton and WV Active Bilston - Bert Williams in Bilston. At WV Active Swim School we think it’s important that all children have the chance to learn the vital life skill of swimming which is why we offer lessons for all ages and abilities.

Why your child should learn to swim Aside from gaining a new skill, learning to swim will build your child’s confidence in and out of the pool. It will keep your child

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healthy by improving their strength, stamina and flexibility. Swimming is also lots of fun; children often make friends in their swimming classes and don’t realise they are learning whilst having an enjoyable experience. Ultimately, swimming is a lifesaving skill which is valuable for everyone to have.

What you need to know

Why WV Active Swim School?

• There is no joining fee and lessons cost £4.00 each (£40.00 for ten weeks)

We pride ourselves in offering quality swimming lessons for all children who learn to swim with us. We do this by working in partnership with the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA).

Our lessons follow the ASA learn to swim pathway and all our swimming instructors are ASA qualified. All pools are supervised by fully qualified Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) lifeguards allowing your children to enjoy a safe and healthy environment at all times.

At WV Active Swim School we believe we can bring out the best in your child whilst teaching them by ensuring they have a fun and enjoyable experience.

We’ve got lots more to tell you about our swimming lessons, but here are the important parts that we think you need to know: • We offer lessons to children of all abilities above the age of four

• We offer Rookie Lifeguard lessons at £5.00 per lesson (£50.00 for ten weeks) • We start with Ducklings for young beginners, Youth Classes for older beginners, and go right through to Rookie Lifeguard and Competitive Swimming • All swimming lessons last for 25 minutes and lessons run all year round with a two week break at Christmas.

If you would like more information about swimming lessons at WV Active, visit wvactive.com or call 01902 551010.

wolverhampton west magazine

Swimming Lessons advert 140x 218.qxp_Layout 1 19/06/2017 08:46 Page 1

wv Active Swim Academy

£4

Just per lesson

CHILDREN’S

SWIMMING LESSONS at WV Active

Visit wvactive.com to find out more information about our swimming lessons.

wvactive.com | 01902 551010

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine

HIGH SCORES FROM SURVEYS - for Wolverhampton private hospital The health sector regulator, the Care Quality Commission (CQC), has given a rating of ‘Good’ for Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital.

This recent report followed an inspection in late 2016. The results from the March 2017 Nuffield Health patient satisfaction survey also back up these findings, where the Wolverhampton Hospital recently came joint 2nd for overall satisfaction at 97%, out of 31 Nuffield Health hospitals in the UK. The CQC inspection report gave a rating of good overall and specifically for effectiveness, safety, caring and responsiveness.

Several areas of good practice were highlighted including the induction process for new staff and positive incident reporting culture with good quality reports. The medicine management system and safety checklists were good and there are supportive managers at all levels and staff told the inspectors that managers were visible and approachable. The protected swipe card access in areas of the diagnostic imaging department was commended.

Every month Nuffield Health collects patient feedback data for each of the 31 hospitals in the group. This information is used as a benchmark to highlight areas for improvement and to share good practice. Looking at the service areas, the Wolverhampton private hospital scored 100% for gynaecology, oncology (cancer treatment) and cosmetic surgery and 98% for orthopaedics, general surgery, ophthalmology and urology.

The overall quality of catering was rated 95% and 98% for housekeeping and pharmacy. There were very high scores of 99% for confidence in consultants, nurses and physiotherapists. Equally 99% score was achieved for patients

being treated with dignity and respect. For all patients, whether insured, self pay or NHS, 100% said they would recommend the hospital to friends and family.

Hospital Director Karen Pattison commented, “I am delighted with the results of the autumn inspection undertaken by the Care Quality Commission and our own monthly survey, both of which we welcome. We like to know where improvements can be made so we can deliver even higher patient satisfaction. I would like to thank and congratulate the whole team on these fantastic achievements which clearly demonstrates that we are working together to do things right for patients.”

Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital provides a range of clinical services for both private and NHS patients. The private hospital in Tettenhall has two operating theatres of which one has

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

a laminar flow system, to control air and reduce infection during operations. There are 27 en-suite bedrooms and two chemotherapy rooms. The diagnostic suite offers MRI, mammography, fluoroscopy and general x-ray. It also offers 10 consulting rooms within the outpatient department.

The hospital is also the diagnostics service supplier to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Join us for a series of free patient events throughout July at our hospital on Wood Road, Tettenhall, WV6 8LE. Events start at 6:30pm with snacks and refreshments. You can book more than one event. Parking is free.

• • • •

Wednesday 5 July: Let’s Talk Hips Thursday 13 July: Let’s Talk Knees Wednesday 26 July: Let’s Talk Shoulders, Elbows & Hands Thursday 27 July: Let’s Talk Women’s Health

To book your place at any of our events go to: www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/wolverhampton/events or call us on: 01902 793 269.

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Anxiety - Don’t suffer in silence!

Brief anxiety is a natural response, but persistent anxiety leads to feelings of fear and apprehension even in non-threatening situations.

It triggers the same area of the brain that deals with our fight or flight response. The release of certain chemicals into our system then create the physical symptoms associated with an anxiety attack; heightened pulse, shortening of breath, sweating etc. and can lead to a panic attack in some cases.

Anxiety is often created by internal dialogue about a situation that is perceived by the individual to be a danger. Previous memories of a dangerous or unpleasant situation, the fear of being judged by others or a phobia, are all triggers common to sufferers. Sometimes, an anxiety attack comes ‘out of the blue’ and there appears to be no explanation.

There is a new form of anxiety that is going to be a very big problem in the future - social media anxiety.

The rise of smart phones and the need to feel connected 24/7 is giving rise to more situations that can be a catalyst for anxiety.

A traditional remedy for anxiety is a prescription for mood enhancing drugs such as diazepam and clonazepam. Whilst these can be helpful as a ‘sticking plaster’ remedy, on a long-term basis it is far healthier to seek

help to find the root cause of the anxiety and treat that.

This is where techniques like Thought Field Therapy (TFT), hypnosis and Psy-TaP can be extremely effective.

These techniques work with the sub-conscious mind and emotions, which is where the problem is rooted. Anxiety is an emotional response, and internalised by the sufferer. It may have a root cause in a very real experience that happened in the past, or a perceived fear that is created in the conscious mind in certain situations.

Someone experiencing an anxiety attack may not have a conscious explanation for the reaction, but the sub-conscious will know what it is.

These relatively modern techniques work to help the sufferer recognise the cause, understand the reaction and make a positive change to the trigger.

TFT is a useful technique that clears old emotions from memories, allowing the memory to be experienced in a positive or useful way. Memory without emotion is wisdom!

If you suffer from anxiety, whether it is a specific anxiety such as public speaking, exam nerves/driving test, social anxiety or a general, unknown anxiety, there is a way to make positive change to free you from this unpleasant reaction.

Hypnosis can be very effective in finding a hidden cause that may have been buried in the sub-conscious many years ago. It can be a positive experience and as relaxation is a nice side effect of hypnosis, often one that people enjoy.

Have a look at my website www.mindbabble.co.uk for more information and some free tips and techniques.

“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 104

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

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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

Tom’s tip:

GOUT Causes of Gout

A high level of uric acid in the blood (called hyperuricaemia) is the main cause of gout. When there is too much uric acid in your blood, it can no longer dissolve and it crystallizes into urate crystals. Your body then attacks these crystals, causing the tissues to become inflamed.

The crystals usually settle where blood circulation is poor, such as

the joints in your extremities. This is why most gout attacks first occur in the big toe. Even though the symptoms of gout may subside within a few days, you may still have too much uric acid in your blood, and future gout attacks are likely.

Pain usually begins during the night. Even light pressure from a sock or sheet is intolerable.

While the exact causes of gout are not fully understood, some factors are known. Some people have a genetic predisposition to develop gout. Gout may also be related to other medical conditions.

Diet also accounts for some gout; foods that contain purines, a kind of protein found in meat and fish, produces uric acid in the body.

Some people have poor uric acid metabolism, so when they eat purine-rich food, they develop hyperuricaemia as a consequence.

Peeling itchy skin that may appear red, angry, shiny and infected around the affected joint.

Symptoms of Gout Warm, burning pain with swelling in and around a joint, such as fingers or knee.

Gout usually starts in a big toe joint.

WOLVERHAMPTON HIP

Pain or discomfort suddenly increases and lasts most of the night, then gradually subsides over several days.

Limited mobility in the affected joint.

Lumps or nodules (called tophi) appear around the affected area.

Treatment For those people with an on-going gout episode then Colchicine is prescribed to return the urate crystals back to uric acid fluid.

For some people prone to gout episodes then Allopurinol is usually prescribed. This is taken on a day for life.

Some people have to have both medicines, but this is unusual.

Chiropodists/Podiatrists are often the 1st professionals to diagnose gout due to frequent patient contact.

& 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

107

FORMER WOLVES’ WONDER

NAMED PAYCARE PRESIDENT A Wolverhamptonbased health cash plan provider has announced the appointment of a Molineux legend as its new President.

Former Wolves’ goalkeeper Matt Murray has been named President of Paycare, a role which will see him work alongside the organisation’s wider team, as well as partners and affiliates, to support its work across the city and beyond.

First team keeper at Wolves for over a decade, Matt is now a familiar face on Sky’s Soccer Saturday, and is also an active Ambassador for the Wolves Community Trust.

Matt said: “It’s an absolute honour to have been invited to become Paycare’s new President, not least because I’m stepping into the shoes of such a wonderful individual as Rachael HeyhoeFlint. Rachael was a truly amazing person and I hope that I can honour her legacy in some small way by continuing to support the Paycare team and the incredible work it does for our local communities.

“I’ve seen first-hand how passionate Paycare is about the city of Wolverhampton, and how it works tirelessly to bring the community together, to promote inclusivity, and to make a real difference to people’s lives – and I am hugely excited about the opportunity to work together with the team to help promote and support everything it does, now and in the future.”

A not-for-profit organisation, Paycare has been based in Wolverhampton for over 140 years and has, to-date, donated over £2million to worthwhile causes, initiatives and projects UK-wide.

Paycare is also Wolverhampton Wanderers’ longest continuous current sponsor and last year signed a three season deal as official back of shirt sponsors.

The organisation has supported 108

the Club’s Accessible Lounge (now the ‘Rachael Heyhoe-Flint Accessible Lounge, in association with Paycare’) for over two decades, a facility which provides Wolves’ disabled supporters with access to a range of dedicated facilities and activities.

Kevin Rogers, CEO of Paycare, said: “Matt’s strong affiliation with Wolves, his role as official Ambassador of Wolves’ Community Trust, and the fantastic work he does himself within our local communities makes him the perfect fit for Paycare. We are absolutely thrilled to

welcome him and are very much looking forward to working with him over the months and years ahead.”

A well-respected and dedicated not-for-profit health cover provider, Paycare has helped individuals, families and businesses across the Black Country and Wolverhampton protect themselves against everyday healthcare costs and bills for over 140 years.

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Get you r fi month rst ’s 1. SIZE - Full page with 3mm bleed.premium

FREE! Canvas size (inc. bleed)put 251mm x 174mm.

You can’t Finished TRIM size 245mm x 168mm. a price on 2. ARTWORK good health Let your background images fill the whole but for £6.25 per month, we’ve got you covered!

of the canvas including the green area and pink area. Your artwork will be TRIMMED along the white dashed line.

IMPORTANT This magazine is perfect bound - this Claim back up to 100% of the cost you spend on: means an additional 6mm (on either side, depending on placement of advert) will be glued into the magazine binding. Please make sure ALL TEXT AND LOGOS are set within AREA (at least 12mm& more Optical the WHITE Dental Professional Specialist Therapy Consultation & from the white dashed line - left and Tests right).

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Everyday Health Cover since 1874

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Sunflowers in Bloom

PURCHASE OR SPONSOR A SUNFLOWER AND SUPPOR T COMPTON HOSPICE Following on from the success of Compton Hospice’s 2016 Sea of Sunflowers appeal which saw over £40,000 raised towards delivering patient care, the charity has launched its initiative for 2017 – Sunflowers in Bloom.

Last year a sea of golden replica sunflowers adorned the lawns of Compton Hospice for patients, visitors and supporters to see. This spring a similar display will be constructed featuring striking blue sunflower sculptures.

The appeal will see hundreds of sky blue flowers cover the lawns of the hospice grounds between 3rd and 24th July. The sculptures will be placed so that those visiting the hospice will be able to admire them as they glisten in the sunshine.

The sunflowers are made of wrought iron and stand at just under one metre tall. The petals are sky blue in colour and the central seeds are made of cracked glass which will reflect particles of sunlight as they sway gently in the breeze. The sunflower figures are exclusively available to Compton Hospice and are not available to buy in stores or garden centres.

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Support the Sunflowers in Bloom Appeal Sponsor For a donation of your choosing you will be able to sponsor a sunflower to stand in the grounds for the duration of the display.

Purchase By purchasing a sunflower you will be able to take away a sunflower as a beautiful keepsake for your garden. The cost for purchasing a sunflower is £20 if collecting or £25 if you require delivery.

For more information To sponsor or purchase a sunflower(s) please visit www.compton-hospice. org.uk/fundraising/our-appeal/

For more information please contact Compton Hospice Fundraising on 0845 2255 497 or email fundraising@compton-hospice.org.uk

wolverhampton west magazine

Registered Charity No. 512387

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Fit and healthy?

You need an LPA! While an estimated 40 per cent of people reading this have made a will, fewer than one per cent will have a Lasting Power of Attorney in place.

In fact 45 per cent of people aged over 45 don’t even know what one is! But making an LPA, a legal document that allows people to make decisions on your behalf if you can’t, is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Will Jones, a solicitor with the Wills, Probate and Lifetime Planning team at Wolverhampton law firm FBC Manby Bowdler, explains why an LPA should be on the top of your to-do list: “There’s a common misconception that LPAs are only useful for people in old age but in reality, anyone needs an LPA even if you’re fighting fit, as you never know when that could change.

“A Lasting Power of Attorney can make the difference at any age” “An LPA allows you to choose someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if something happens and you can’t make decisions for yourself. With one in three people likely to develop dementia, LPAs are becoming more common but you could need one whatever your age – if you had a car accident, a sudden brain injury or illness, someone needs to be able to take charge of your finances, pay your bills and look after your welfare.

And it could happen to you. Every 90 seconds someone is admitted to hospital in the UK with an acquired brain injury. The late Superman actor Christopher Reeve became 112

paralysed from the neck down following a horse-riding accident in 1995 when he was just 42.

to make decisions on your behalf about your care and treatment if you’re ill, and property and financial.

Michael Schumacher, the seven time Formula 1 world champion, was 44 when a skiing accident left him paralysed in 2013.

Attorneys can be the same for both or different and if you choose more than one attorney, you decide whether they can act together or separately.”

But don’t be fooled into thinking LPAs are the sole preserve of the rich and famous. Without a Power of Attorney, if you lose your faculties – even temporarily - sorting your finances will be even harder than if you have died. A relative can’t just walk into a bank and access your money, not even if it is to pay your mortgage, bills or care.

If you’d like to know more contact Will on 01902 392404 or w.jones@fbcmb.co.uk.

Registering an LPA doesn’t mean giving up control now as you can opt for it to come into effect if you’re no longer capable. There are two kinds: one for health and welfare that gives someone the authority wolverhampton west magazine

Personal Services Buying & Selling Property Family, Divorce & Childcare Community Care Clinical Negligence & Serious Injury Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning Disputed Probate Court of Protection Employment Law Motoring Offences

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0800 111 6144

George House St John`s Square Wolverhampton WV2 4BZ

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VICTORY PAINTING GROUP

12 Annual Exhibition th

We would like to make you very welcome this August Bank Holiday Weekend to our Annual Exhibition on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th August from 11.00am to 4.30pm.

mediums, and are a variety of sizes and subjects. If you like art and paintings or just enjoy a cake and a cup of tea in relaxing surroundings then our exhibition is a must.

Please feel free to come along and browse, we would love to see you.

Victory Painting Group consists of around 33 members who all get together each week and enjoy painting and learning from each other. We have demonstrations throughout the year which are also available to non-members, we have workshops for members and we enjoy at least one social trip to an art festival per year.

We also have for sale a wide range of greeting cards printed from original paintings by Victory Painting Group members, they are usually very popular.

The members of victory Painting Group have been working hard all year to produce well over 200 new paintings for you to see. The paintings which are for sale are at very attractive prices, cover all

Most of the artists will be available over the weekend and take great pleasure to give information about their work or have just a friendly chat over a cuppa and a tempting homemade cake.

We display paintings throughout the year in ‘Gravel Hill Doctors Surgery’ in Wombourne, and also the ‘Farmers and Friends’

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Scottish Islands - Jackie Herrington

cafe at Shipley Garden Village along the Bridgnorth Road.

Admission to the exhibition is free. We have good parking with disabled access. Refreshments will be available all day.

The exhibition takes place at Victory Hall, Greyhound Lane, Lower Penn WV4 4UN (next to the Greyhound Pub).

Enquiries - via website: www. victorypaintinggroup.co.uk 113

We plan for everything else, why not ICT?

it ’s the future

Business planning for a school is a standard and sensible practice.

Alan Foster, Concero’s Curriculum Development Officer, explains how robust IT development plans ensure students and staff get the best from technology now and in the future…

“It’s common practice in schools to sit down and review business plans, students’ progress levels, pupil numbers, staffing levels – the list is endless.

“What is less common, but just as essential, is how schools think about the way they use IT. It is also an essential part of schools’ budgets and it is increasingly important to get best value for money in what is a financially challenging time for all schools.

“We have been working with dozens of head teachers in Wolverhampton and Staffordshire schools, where they recognise the importance and value of having an IT Development Plan in place.

“Gone are the days when NGFL ring-fenced funding and LEA support meant head teachers and their senior leadership teams didn’t have to concern themselves so much with IT provision. With the onset of devolved formula capital, putting schools in the driving seat of their capital budgets, what funds schools now have, have to be spent wisely.

“And to ignore investment and planning on IT, until there is a crisis or an issue, is a bit like ignoring a hole in the roof – you can patch it up but at some point, if it is not looked after and maintained, the whole thing will come crashing down.

“As a technology support business we would far rather come in and help a school with a realistic 114

three-year plan of IT priorities than provide emergency help when a system crashes leaving a school vulnerable and unable to function and teach. We go through everything, from updating cabling and maintaining the server to considering onsite data security and storage and off-site back-ups.

We advise on e-safety, broadband, wireless communication, staff and pupil devices and IT curriculum development.

“One of the most common areas we come across, where schools are vulnerable, is encryption of devices – all portable devices including memory sticks need to be encrypted.

“Another area is off-site data storage, which is increasingly important for all kinds of organisations. A fire or a flood in school could render lost data and a serious problem for staff and students – especially if it impacts on exams.

“All these aspects of IT need careful and sensible consideration and Concero is able to help schools prioritise and budget for all manner of IT needs.

“We recently helped St Michael’s Church of England Primary School with provisioning new broadband with education specialist ISP, including segregated filtering for

staff and pupils. We also put in place an essential data off-site back up to aid with disaster recovery. We have future plans to replace staff and student devices on a rolling annual process and to provide office 365 training and interactive device training.

Head teacher, Kathryn Jackson, at St Michael’s Primary School 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.”

Alan added: “If it hasn’t crossed your mind to put an IT Development Plan in place then now’s the time to start thinking about it to make sure your school is as future-proof as it can be.”

If you need any more information on this just drop Alan an email: afoster@concerouk.com

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SHARRATS ANNOUNCE

SHARRATTS ANNOUNCE

New Recruit New Recruit Sharratts have expanded its team with the recruitment of family solicitor Sonali Obhrai

Sharratts have expanded its team with the recruitment of who will be working at the head office on family solicitor Sonali Obhrai who will be working at the head Wergs Road, Tettenhall. Sonali joined Sharratts office on Wergs Road, Tettenhall. Sonali joined Sharratts in in March 2017.

Shebecome has already key March 2017.

She has already a keybecome memberaand member and anteam. invaluable partdepartment of the team.

The an invaluable part of the The family has hasagrown infour recent months grown infamily recent department months and has team of specialist solicitors.and has a team of four specialist solicitors.

Sonali completed her law and Legal Practice Sonali completed her law degree anddegree Legal Practice Course Course at De Montfort She has worked at De Montfort University.

She has University. worked with respected with firms across theaccomplished West Midlands. firms across therespected West Midlands.

She is an family Sheover is an10 accomplished family withofover 10 solicitor with years experience in asolicitor wide range family years is experience a wide of family matters. matters. Sonali a specialistinwithin herrange field. She has gained specialist Sonali accreditation in Private Children Law and is a specialist within her field.

SheDomestic has gained Abuse. She is also aaccreditation member of Resolution, members are specialist in Privatewhere Children Law and family lawyers committed to She the constructive resolution of family Domestic Abuse. is also a member of Resolution, disputes. where members are family lawyers committed to theup constructive resolution family disputes.

Sonali grew in Wolverhampton.

Sheofsays “ Working in TettenhallSonali meansgrew that up I can a local connection inmaintain Wolverhampton.

She saysthat is close to“Working my roots. in I trained as a solicitor in Wolverhampton Tettenhall means that I can maintain where I worked several years. a localfor connection thatIt’s is great closeto tobe myreturning roots. I and being part of that community again.”

trained as a solicitor in Wolverhampton where I worked for several years.

It’sshe great Expressing her delight in her new role saysto “ Ibe amreturning thrilled to have joined established andcommunity reputable firm whose ethos anda well being part of that again.”

Sonali is very

Sonali is very committed committed to client tocare client care and offers and offers a a sympathetic sympathetic and and pragmatic approach to to pragmatic approach tackling thethe many issues tackling many issues ofof family breakdown. family breakdown.

Sonali comments “I Sonali comments “I am looking forward to am looking forward to putting mymy expertise and putting expertise experience into growing and experience into the family law and growing theservices family law being ableand to contribute services being able toto the continuedto success contribute the ofcontinued the firm. It success is a reallyof exciting time to join.” the firm. It is a really

exciting time toinjoin.”

Sonali specialises divorce, of assets Sonali division specialises in arising fromdivision relationship breakdown, disputes regarding child divorce, of assets arising from relationship maintenance injunctions concerning abuse. breakdown,and disputes regarding childdomestic maintenance and injunctions concerning domestic abuse.

Sharratts family solicitors are specialists in their field. Their Sharratts areand specialists in solicitors arefamily there solicitors to help you provide bespoke advice their field.

Their solicitors are there to help catered to your individual circumstances.

you and provide bespoke advice catered

For to children matters, divorce, to any yourassistance individualrelating circumstances. separation, finances or Wills and elderly people issues please For assistance relating to01902 children do notany hesitate to contact us on 759500 or visit our matters, divorce, separation, finances or website www.sharratts.com.

Wills and elderly people issues please do not hesitate to contact us on 01902 759500 or visit our website www.sharratts.com

and values differentiate it from its competitors.”

Expressing her delight in her new role she says “I am thrilled to have joined a well established and reputable firm whose ethos and values differentiate it from its competitors.”

WHERE FAMILY MEANS EVERYTHING DIVORCE SEPARATION CARE PROCEEDINGS PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE INJUNCTIONS WILLS & PROBATE

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01902 759500

info@ sharratts.com • www.sharratts.com

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Education

and Schooling

by David Williams – Headmaster of Tettenhall College school for all and I am proud of the work of our Academic Support department who ensure that all pupils are fully integrated into all aspects of college life and make a significant contribution to the many opportunities the college provides.”

I sometimes get asked where Tettenhall College appears in the league tables.

It’s not a question I particularly likenot because I am not proud of what our pupils achieve when compared with other schools - but because they represent such a narrow view of education. They are useful to a parent who is comparing a set of different schools who is seeking a school driven solely by its academic success. They are less useful to those looking for the benefits of a broader education who value the development of the character and personality of their child alongside academic attainment, to those people who choose to educate their children here. One sporting anology I have heard and agree with is that it is like awarding the gold medal for the heptathlon based solely on the results in the 800 metres race.

A vital part to be sure but to be a truly successful heptathlete you have to master all its elements.

We could seek to enhance our position by ruthlessly selecting on entry, asking pupils to leave after GCSEs or midway through their A levels if they have not reached a certain threshold or, in the case of the international pupils that form such a vital part of our community, setting up a subsidiary so that a division can take place between international and “home” children. We are steadfastly a 118

As any school we want to improve results but we remain committed to a non-selective, broader education embracing academia, the arts and sports as well as a social and spiritual education. Our aim is to focus on the individual and work hard to ensure that each pupil’s needs are catered for in and outside the classroom but equally to prepare them for the world outside.

I recently came across a chart which in one diagram gives the 16 skills needed in the 21st centuryunsurpringly, a different mix of skills than those needed in the past and not narrowly academic.

Firstly, foundational skills, the base skills of literacy and numeracy, to be supplemented by scientific literacy.

To these we must also add ICT literacy, financial literacy and cultural and civic literacy which ought to be embedded in any school’s work.

These skills must remain central but represent just the starting point as we must also have competencies which describe how pupils approach complex challenges. For example, critical thinking reflects the ability to identify, analyse and evaluate situations in order to formulate responses to problems. Creativity is the ability to imagine and devise innovative new ways of addressing those problems and communication and collaboration involve working in coordination with others to convey information or tackle problems.

Finally, character qualities describe how pupils approach their changing environment. Amid rapidly changing markets, character qualities such as persistence and adaptability ensure greater resilience and success in the face of obstacles.

Curiosity and initiative serve as

starting points for discovering new concepts and ideas. Leadership and social and cultural awareness involve constructive interactions with others in socially, ethically and culturally appropriate ways.

These represent a challenge for any school so we have to continue to improve and innovate to ensure achievement in the classroom and provide a rich extra-curricular programme that helps pupils develop be it through Go kart club or philosophy or public speaking in our Preparatory school or cookery or D of E or share investment for our older pupils.

For this reason, we are especially proud of our Year 13 leavers this year. The personal statements prepared by our students demonstrated not only the academic credentials but the motivation and determination, plus the ability to work with others, to communicate, to contribute and sometimes lead, which result in these and all the other high quality university offers they have received.

In a recent conversation with an Old Tettenhallian (now himself a parent and lawyer) he commented that the key element of his education, has been the confidence it has given him to push himself forward and quoted the relationship with and encouragement by staff, the plays and performances at school as factors in his own personal development.

In alumni events throughout the year from Hong Kong to London to Wolverhampton this is a familiar refrain-an affection for the school but an acknowledgement of that edge it has given them - not measurable in a table - as they reflect on what it has done for them.

You can now follow David on Twitter @tettcoll_head wolverhampton west magazine

E X T R A O R D I N A RY E D U C AT I O N

S E N I O R S C H O O L O P E N D AY

23rd September 2017 10.00am – 12.30pm www.tettenhallcollege.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Top School welcomes even younger pupils

Leading Staffordshire Independent School, St. Dominic’s Brewood is launching an expanded children’s nursery – open for 11 and a ½ hours a day, 50 weeks of the year and offering the free Governmentfunded hours.

St. Dominic’s has achieved outstanding academic results and has been ranked the Number One Performing School in Staffordshire in the Attainment 8 category and EBacc GCSE results by the Department of Education. Their A Level results are also outstanding with 100% pass rate and 37% at a staggering A*-A grade.

Not only will the nursery, based at a former convent in the idyllic village of Brewood, be open from 7.30am until 6.00pm five days a week, it will also care for children from the age of two.

Former Ofsted Early Years Inspector Jane Durand, who manages the nursery, said: “It’s such a lovely school, where the children are happy and settled in a wonderful environment with fabulous facilities.

“The school is very popular with parents and children from the Brewood, Wolverhampton and Telford areas but is also accessible to other districts as we are very close to the M54 and M6.”

“I’m very excited to be in at the beginning to help shape the new, extended nursery, offering a vital and unique service to working parents, who can be sure that we will provide first rate care and education for their child.”

Mrs Durand, who is a 44-yearold mother-of-two from Walsall, returned to university as a full-time student in 2011, graduating with a first class BA (Hons) degree in Early Childhood Education two years ago.

Mrs Durand, who has worked in early years education for more than 25 years, including 10 years as an Ofsted inspector, said: “We will be able to take up to 30 children in our extended nursery but parents should act quickly and register their interest with us to ensure a place.

She now continues to mentor Birmingham University students who are on early years and teaching courses.

Besides managing the nursery, she aims to develop extra-curricular activities, such as music and dance, which could be offered to young children from the local community, as well as nursery pupils.

Peter McNabb, Head of St. Dominic’s Brewood, said: “We count ourselves very lucky to have attracted such an experienced and inspirational early years expert such as Jane Durand to work with our existing, outstanding team.

“By extending the age at which our nursery admits children from three down to two and opening extra hours daily and throughout the year, we believe we will be offering an unrivalled service to children and parents from a wide area.”

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Little St. Dom’s Nursery is open • Offering care and education for 2 year olds • Government funded hours are available • 7.30am – 6.00pm, 50 weeks of the year, guarantees busy parents full flexibility

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

www.stdominicsbrewood.co.uk

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A brief

History

of Newbridge

PreParatory School In 1946 the school became an incorporated company – Wolverhampton PNEU School Limited and in 1949 moved to its current site in ‘The Laurels’ at 51 Newbridge Crescent.

Newbridge PNEU Uniform days

80 Years Old in September 2017 The Homelands PNEU (Parents National Educational Union) School was founded in September 1937. Started by a local surgeon, Mr Robert Milnes-Walker, the school opened in Connaught Street with just four pupils. Word spread and the school numbers grew, necessitating a move to larger premises in Park Road West in Wolverhampton.

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By 1954 the school was thriving, a very happy community held together by a close knit and dedicated staff lead by Miss Hedy Joss who was instrumental in changing what was essentially a dwelling house into an efficient functioning school. This was recognised by the Ministry of Education and the school would hold its own as one of the best preparatory schools in the United Kingdom. Subsequent Headmistresses, Miss Olive Harvey, Miss Marilyn Coulter, Mrs Barbara Pring and the school’s current Head, Mrs Sarah Fisher, continued to take the school forward. It is as a result of their efforts and those of the current enthusiastic staff that the school was rated as excellent in all categories by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in 2016 – the highest possible accolade.

The school has never looked back and continues to grow

whilst retaining the ‘Newbridge Family’ ethos of which it is justifiably proud. The school has a considerable standing in both Wolverhampton and within the educational community nationwide.

Newbridge Preparatory School is currently rated 24th in the UK by The Sunday Times Independent Preparatory School league table (Based on Year Six) SATS. To celebrate the school’s 80th Anniversary, the school is holding a Summer Ball on Saturday 23rd September. Parents, pupils (aged over 18) and staff both past and present are invited to join our Newbridge family in this celebration of 80 years of outstanding education.

If you have or have had an association with the school, you are invited to join us. Please contact the school office on 01902 751088 for further details.

wolverhampton west magazine

Current Newbridge pupils looking to the future

Newbridge when it moved to the Laurels

Newbridge 1946

Please contact the school office on 01902 751088 for further details. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Cosford FOOD FESTIVAL

Fine food and flying machines!

Tickets to the festival are now available to purchase in advance via the Museum website www.rafmuseum.org/ cosford. Keep up to date with the latest Cosford Food Festival event info by following the event on Facebook @ CosfordFoodFestival.

A tasty line-up of over 90 local producers will be heading to the Cosford Food Festival, taking place on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 July, which promises to serve up the very best food and drink the Midlands has to offer.

Held in the unique setting at the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford, a bustling food market will showcase some of the region’s finest artisan produce and locally brewed beverages. On top of 66 popular favourites, 26 new producers will be joining the Cosford Food Festival for the first time, making this year’s event the biggest and the best yet.

If browsing all the stalls makes you hungry, fear not, foodies can feast on delicious street food with flavours from around the world. The diverse menu on offer will include everything

from Indian, Italian and French cuisine to a taste of the Caribbean with Cuban and Mexican food to tempt visitors. Gourmet burgers, hot dogs and ribs along with chicken tikka flatbreads are the perfect hot food option for those who love a summer BBQ….all washed down with a freshly ground cup of coffee or maybe a glass of fizz from the Champavan! For those who can’t resist something sweet, traditional dairy ice creams, waffles, crêpes and milkshakes will all be on offer.

Visitors can learn from local chefs how to prepare the perfect dish during live cooking demonstrations on both days. Plus, festival goers can sit back and enjoy live music including performances from Cosford and Shawbury Military Wives Choir and the 1940s vintage vocal harmony trio The Bluebird Belles.

With plenty of entertainment for the entire family taking place over the whole weekend, including cookery classes, pottery workshops, circus skills and a play bus, it is sure to be a great day out!

Win Family Tickets to the Cosford Food Festival We have teamed up with the RAF Museum Cosford to give three lucky readers the chance to win family passes to this year’s food festival.

To enter the competition answer the following question and email your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: info@wolverhamptonwestmag. co.uk or send on a postcard to 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY.

How many local producers will be at this year’s Cosford Food Festival?

Entries to be received by Friday 7th July 2017.

Competition Terms & Conditions: To enter you must be aged 18 years or older. Winners will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and informed by telephone.

No cash or alternative prize will be given.

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Photographs courtesy of Designer Photography

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Mount Hotel Tettenhall Wolverhampton singer Amy Goodall had guests singing and dancing at a charity ball hosted by Libby Walton in memory of her sister Georgeanne Griffin who passed away in 2014 after losing her battle with breast cancer.

Sponsored by

A raffle and silent auction on the night raised over £3500 for Compton Hospice. The event was held at the Mount Hotel in Tettenhall where over 100 guests enjoyed a champagne reception and dinner.

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Neil McKenzie, Lisa McKenzie.

Mark Brewer, Angela Bubalo.

Amy Goodall.

Jo Bywater, Chris Bywater.

Martin Bamford, Judy Thacker.

Isabelle Butler and Amy Goodall.

Grace Lee, Charlotte Lilley, Libby Walton.

Rebecca Rollason, Kirsty Bastable, Natalie Morelli.

Jas Randhawa, Dermott Kelly.

Molly Nicholls, Charlotte Griffin, Kasia Pinkiewcz.

Caroline Marsden, Michelle Porter, John Smith.

Carys Ashton-Jones, Sandra Ashton-Jones, Owain Ashton-Jones.

15. Glenn Butler, David Fellows .

16. Sophia Griffin, Isabelle Butler, Harriet Butler.

17. Nicola Butler, Olivia Nicholls, Libby Walton. wolverhampton west magazine

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1. The Team at Taylor Biddle.

Aristocats recently featured its Spring/Summer 2017 Programmes with models from The Fashion Show Company in two fashion shows held at Patshull Park Hotel.

4. Teresa Adams, Avril Hickman, Carol Whittle.

The evening event, one of many challenges and activities undertaken by Paul Hodgetts, Head Tennis Coach at Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis and Squash Club raised ÂŁ1,651 for Compton Hospice. Both Paul and the tennis club have elected to choose Compton Hospice as their charity this year.

6. Amelia Mason, Debbie Nutting.

Sponsored by

The lunch time fashion show raised ÂŁ2,618 for Wightwick Hall Special School.

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2. Lisa Vickers, Ali Birkett.

3. Maureen Cartwright, Madeleine Painter, June Currie.

5. Jane Southall, Gurvinder Hayer, Amanda Sutton.

7. Marc Hughes, Paula Hughes.

8. Fashion Models.

9. Peter Gardner, Samantha Dutton.

10. May Wallback, Sue Evans.

11. Maria Allenza, Pamela Hillman.

A fresh approach to Dentistry

12. Elizabeth Topp, Emma Robinson.

13. Vickie Jones, Catharine Hammond.

14. Pat Roberts, Georgina Marsh. wolverhampton west magazine

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

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Gala Ball Tettenhall College

Sponsored by

Tettenhall College’s gala ball was once again a huge success, described as “legendary” by the Chairman of Governors Mr Jeremy Woolridge, over 250 guests enjoyed an evening of fine food and dancing within the School’s stunning grounds. Headline sponsors this year were Hovi Luxury Homes who have been developing bespoke luxury homes for individual clients for over 10 years in the central region.

Other sponsors included Wolverhampton Jaguar Land Rover who provided a fine display of their latest cars and Shorade, a local prestige vehicle repair company, who supported the virtual racing car experience. Special thanks went to Thomas Harvey Estate Agents of Tettenhall who have supported the School and the Gala Ball over the last 5 years, a wonderful time was once again had by all.

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1. Alex Harvey, Charlotte Willies, Glyn Harvey, Sue Evans, David Williams, Chris Harvey, Emily Doyle-Gibbons.

2. Harry Westwood, Harriet Hommers.

3. Rick Kaul, Mac Kaul, Sara Morris, David Morris.

4. Grace Shahar, Mark Shahar.

5. Andy Jones, Ian Bradley.

6. Helen Hunter, Rebecca Smith, Claire Johnson, Samantha Lycette, Sara Tunnicliff.

7. Sue Appleby, Ann Whiting, Steve Appleby, Pauline Warpole, Jackie Leeming.

8. John Lloyd, Jackie Leeming.

9. Eloise Nash, Ben Houghton, David Williams, Ian Houghton, Sarah Houghton, Andy Jones, Vickie Jones.

10. Steve Saul, Adelle Saul, Heidi Laight, Stuart Laight.

11. Jeremy Ireland Jones, Angela Ireland Jones, Georgina Alsopp, Jack Sheldon.

12. Debbie Longhurst, Anita Towns.

13. Karinvir Aujlay, Khaishav Rattan, Jonathan Lloyd.

14. Kim Macklin, Tammy Mallett.

15. Elizebeth Welch, Helen Collins, Sarah Houghton.

16. Sarah Wynne, Andrew Wynne.

17. Jeff Shipway, Deborah Kane, Kim Swann, Nicky Parkes. wolverhampton west magazine

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Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis & Squash Club Newbridge Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis & Squash club hosted their annual summer party with this year’s theme being a cocktail party, over 100 guests attended the event seeing a great variety of entertainment throughout the night. Everyone enjoyed a delicious BBQ whilst our mixology cocktail maker whipped up some great summer drinks! DJ Niel Jackson got everyone up on their feet with dancing going on long into the evening.

Sponsored by

1. Shaun Ryan, Helen Ryan, Katie Alsop, Alex Alsop, Julie Tomlinson, Paul Tomlinson, Tric Gooding, Natalie Leese, Alex Penn.

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Beth Grinsell, Cathy Grinsell, Jane Winfield.

Charlie Howard, Alex Dalton, Sunil Lal. Alan Wood, Julie Wood, Jaci Lines, Rob Lines.

Suzanne Roberts, Pete Roberts, Jools Longsden, Martin Scott, Antony Bagshaw, Elle Longsden.

Tric Gooding, Natalie Leese, Katie Alsop, Julie Tomlinson, Helen Ryan.

Maria Allenza, Sav Allenza.

Tracey Doughty, Sally Mansell, Louise Lambert, Mary James.

Andrew Whiting, Ann Whiting.

Mary James, Andy James.

Sarah Killion, John Killion.

Raji Sahota, Nin Matharu, Raj Matharu.

Amber Quick, Roy Webb, Jo Webb, Steve Chilvers.

Joanne Murray, Steve, Appleby, Sue Appleby, Andrew Whiting, Ann Whiting.

Karl Parkinson, Andrew Pritchard, Richard Jarzebowski.

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I-Can Play Golf

at Peter Baker Golf Academy

Getting into golf has never been easier with the new I-Can membership at Peter Baker Golf Academy at The South Staffordshire Golf Club.

For many, golf is an intimidating sport to get involved with and while in many cases it is true that it’s not an easy or affordable game to “try before you buy”, with the I-Can initiative it is.

I-Can membership at Peter Baker Academy is structured specifically to make golf available to out-and-out novices.

Coach Mark Shervill says: “The I-Can golf membership is designed to help people who would like to try the game of golf but don’t quite know where to start.”

Head Professional Peter Baker with Lady Club Professional Lisa Shervill

summer, will be available. And as every one of us knows, a lot of what makes golf so attractive is the social aspect of the game.

Therefore Peter Baker Academy at The South Staffordshire Golf Club is always eager to find new ways to help new members integrate comfortably into the club, making them feel relaxed right from the start.

“Golf can be a daunting game regardless of whether it’s just trying to start by hitting some balls on your local golf range or by visiting your local club, so we created this programme to help bring people together who share a common goal.”

“Everyone can learn together and feed off each other and decide whether golf is a game for them – and all for an affordable cost. We create a warm and friendly environment – we wish to be known for a great golf course and a great place for the whole family to visit.”

Newcomers at Peter Baker Academy will be free to enjoy the many perks and privileges afforded by golf, everything from the range to the practice ground facilities, including Bunker, chipping green and hitting off the grass in the

No equipment is required (just comfortable footwear) in order to begin the £250 I-Can programme, which includes all coaching and on-course sessions as well as mini competitions and events, and runs from July to December.

“We have designed a fun and engaging introduction that gives players confidence and skills. Our expert team of coaches have created a fun and engaging approach to the game that includes individual expert 1 to 1 coaching for 1 hour per month - comprising 4 x 1 hour individual sessions from July to October - as well as small-sized group sessions.”

Beyond this there will also be much about the virtues of golf, including its health and well-being benefits. Events will finish with small informal presentations and food and drinks in the clubhouse.

Running parallel to the I-Can programme is the Get Back into Golf initiative.

Tailor-made for lapsed players who may have played golf in the past, the coaching team at South Staffordshire hope to help re-ignite flagging interest.

“Often players, due to one thing or another, struggle to find time to enjoy the game. We believe that our facilities and expertise can really help attract people back to play the game.

“We have individual coaching, as well as group coaching, designed specifically to refresh skills and regain confidence on the course.”

The 3rd hole at the picturesque course

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Both programmes will see participants achieving a handicap, ready to play the course with friends or in club competitions. wolverhampton west magazine

Celebrating 125 Years of Golf

Benefits of Ladies GoLf

• Health/keeping active • Sport of business • Socialising on and off course • Build relationships • Challenge of learning a new sport/skill • Mental as well as physical challenge!

• Time for you to focus on something other than work or life stresses!

Lady Captain Denny Aston with Lady Club professional Lisa Shervill

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

We are the only course locally who has a lady Professional to coach you.

No tee times required other than for competitions.

A mentor for your first 3 months to help you integrate and get to know the ropes if you wish.

Great for socialising – regular golf competitions, roll ups plus a variety of social events.

We offer Academy membership if returning to golf or brand new to golf to ease you in/coach you into how to play. This can build confidence before joining the club as a fully-fledged member.

Fantastic facilities for meeting friends in a lovely setting for drinks, meals, afternoon tea.

The view from the dining room and patio one of the best in Wolverhampton!

Lovely parkland course with great greens and 5 par 5’s for ladies.

It’s easy to play 9 holes if you are short of time.

Total equality with men – we have allocated tee times for ladies at weekends even if there is a men’s competition running so working ladies can always be guaranteed a weekend game.

We encourage mixed golf with a variety of competitions and social golf.

Membership applications are welcomed from all, whether novice, beginner, improver or experienced golfer. All membership packages are open to men and women.

Members can use our clubhouse for functions – birthday parties, lunches, christenings etc Special offers for ladies in our 125th Anniversary year to help us further grow our section.

Come with your friends and the discounts are even more attractive.

We offer flexible membership deals based on a voucher system if you don’t have time to use a full membership.

We look forward to welcoming you to South Staffs Golf Club to what promises to be a wonderful summer of Golf, with good food and excellent company on Harry Vardon’s great course.

Sue LeBeau, Club Manager, The South Staffordshire Golf Club

The South Staffordshire Golf Club, Danescourt Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9BQ @SouthStaffsgc /SouthStaffsGolfClub www.southstaffordshiregolfclub.co.uk Tel:www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk 01902 751065

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Oxley Park: an emerald

gem in the city of Wolverhampton 103 years of age and barely a stone’s throw from the City centre. Fresh faces and fresh ideas in motion at Wolverhampton’s Oxley Park Golf Club this season mean a revitalised venue with much to offer.

Oxley’s easy walking parkland course sits in the middle of a large residential area but comfortably offers a peaceful and tranquil feel throughout. On the flip side it also presents a good deal of out of bounds, half of the holes offer that threat. It’s a tight course with a high premium on accuracy, the lush and well conditioned fairways offer a helping hand to a well aimed golf ball.

Pro Shop – Our Award Winning PGA Fellow Professional Craig Thomas and his team offer a wide range of brands and products in the newly refurbished professional shop. 2017 has seen the introduction of a swing room within the shop where club demo’s, custom fitting and coaching can take place all using the industry leading technology (FlightScope). The Golf Academy also offers an extensive range of coaching packages to meet the needs of every golfer from the complete beginner to the tour professional.

If you are interested in joining one of the best courses in the area with a friendly atmosphere please call the Pro Shop on 01902 773989 ext3 or email office@oxleyparkgolfclub.co.uk

Colt’s design made good use of the natural gently rolling landscape and it’s a good layout to test out the state of your mid to short iron game. An ongoing course improvement plan is well under way including the reconstruction of bunkers which means the course will continue to be a challenging test to all level of golfer.

19th hole – Traditional clubhouse facilities which have had minor renovations giving a fresh feel for the coming season, large club room plus a private room for hire. Great choice of menus for all occasions, and a varied social calendar.

NO GOLF IN EXPERIEN G OR EQUIP CE MEN REQUIRED T For

further de tails and dates plea se contact Craig on 0 7973 7984 83

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

137

O ne of a Kind

By Rob Taylor

Making a car suitable for every world market is a big challenge – a challenge that has been left unanswered by car makers for decades – until now. Now there is Ford’s new EcoSport, which is trumpeted as the first mass-market vehicle fit to be called a true ‘world car’. From the moment I first read the press release I was sceptical; the images of the EcoSport left me cold and so did the concept.

Cars should be answers to questions posed by the unique challenges faced by people on different continents, not one-sizefits-all compromises. Of course, there’s no such problem when it comes to sports or luxury cars, because here making a single model and then selling it in as many worldwide markets as possible is de rigueur – but that’s not the case when it comes to the mass car market, where Ford firmly plies its trade.

down facsimile of every other mini-SUV on the roads today. It is really small in real life – much more petite than in photos. The distinctive chrome-barred grill almost looks too large for its overall form. You can bet that this sizeable ‘mouth’ isn’t entirely essential to the performance of the 90 bhp 1.5 litre diesel engine, which, while well matched to the 5-speed manual gearbox, requires considerable patience in order to elicit optimum performance.

However it’s fair to say that despite vehicle development being overseen by designers and engineers from 16 countries, none of them had performance down as a priority. Even the usually involving dynamics that have been Ford’s trademark for so many years seem to have been dialled down in the interests of uniformity. I suspect windy, undulating B-roads don’t exist elsewhere on the globe. And I imagine the EcoSport’s price tag of around £15,000 sounds pretty pricey in certain corners of the world as well - especially in Brazil (where it is designed) and India (where it is built).

Inside there are three trim levels and all arrive with a decent amount of equipment. In vogue LED day-running lights stand out among other style flourishes, but the EcoSport largely keeps

things plain and simple. Entrylevel Zetec versions offer up 16” alloys, LED daytime running lights, air-con, electric windows, Bluetooth and USB functionality.

Mid-spec Titanium models come with part-leather upholstery, larger alloys, automatic lights and wipers, keyless entry and go, climate control and cruise control. Go beyond this spec and woe betide you when it comes to residuals.

The EcoSport’s driving position is good; steering wheel and seat adjustments allow for modest comfort but, again, this is a small vehicle, essentially a hatchback wearing high heels. And it’s the cabin’s lack of width which most people will take issue with – especially if you enjoy visiting McDonald’s Drive-Thru on a regular basis. Understandably overall space and practicality is fairly limited, although I was able to accommodate two adult passengers in the back with relative ease. Boot space is surprisingly limited, however.

Economy is up at around 50 mpg, which is commendable, and Co2 emissions are pretty good also.

In short there’s just too much compromise and not enough clarity. It strikes me that too many cooks really do spoil the broth…

Ford is the marque of the everyman, the blue-collar worker from the brand with the blue oval.

Its attempt to unify differences between cars of the same size across different regions, to reflect differing tastes, sounds like a shortcut to bankruptcy to me.

The EcoSport does a very good job of being a scaled138

wolverhampton west magazine

Why service your air-con?

Most cars should be serviced every 10,000 miles or every year but did you know that an air-con service is not included in your car’s regular service schedule?

because lubricating oil is mixed with the gas to keep the compressor unit running smoothly.

In an air-con service the system is drained to remove any oil, gas and moisture from the system. It is then recharged with new gas and oil to keep it running effectively.

3.

As with all things mechanical, the air-con system needs to be serviced regularly to keep it working at optimum performance. It is recommended that you have your air-con serviced and pollen filter replaced every 2 years.

Below are the 3 main reasons for servicing your air con.

Bacteria build up.

Ever had a stale smell when you turn your aircon on for the first time in a while? This smell is usually associated with a dirty pollen filter and a build-up of bacteria in the air vents. A regular service will include an antibacterial clean removing nasty odours and germs so that all you get when you turn on your air-con is fresh air.

1. Checking for leaks.

Your car’s air-con system has to cope with a pretty hostile environment and as a result the refrigerant gas leaks out of the air-con system over time. This gas is required to cool the air and on average, the air-con system will lose around 10% of gas per annum. If the level of gas gets too low the system will not function.

2.

The system has not been used for a while.

The system needs to be used regularly to ensure that the seals are kept moist (this also helps stop the gas leaking out): this is

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel Image Luxury Travel 92 Perton & Bridgnorth Travel 69 Bathrooms Eaton Kitchens 29 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 34/35 MBH Builders 27 Beauty Salons Heaven Skin Care 89 La Minky 91 Beauty Clinics – Cosmetic Cosmetique Aesthetic Clinic 93 Beds & Bedroom Furniture Merridale Furnishers 13 Bedroom Wardrobes (fitted) Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 34/35 Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Love Your Blinds 17/27 Merridale Furnishers 13 Boiler & Service Installations Butco Heating 43 Building Services & Contractors MBH Builders 27 Three Pines 11 Business Services Wolverhampton Science Park 65 Butchers Allan Bennett 71 Poxons 69 Caravan Accessories Cannock Caravan Accessories 61 Car Body Repairs Elite 140 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists Touch Dry 51 Carpets & Flooring - Supply & Fit 26 1st Choice Flooring Sandford Carpets 23 Car Sales & Service Charles Clark – Lexus 144/145 Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton 147 Chiropody & Podiatry Tom Casey 106 Cleaning Services – Interior & Exterior Able Facilities Services 51 DCS (Drive Cleaning Services) 52 RC Cleaning 52 Composite Doors Doorsmart 38 Computer Services Finchfield IT 68 Delicatessen Corbelli 60 Dentistry Parkdale Dentures 105 Parkdale Implants 2 Diet & Slimming Cambridge Diet 92 Driveways MBH Builders 27 Resindrives.co.uk 21

Education Newbridge School 122/123 North Shropshire College 64 St. Dominics 121 Tettenhall College 119 Electricians & Electrical Contractors Central Electrical Contracts 33 Excel Electrical Contractors 45 MBH Builders 27 Entertainment & Leisure Cosford Food Festival 125 Seaside in the City 63 Estate Agents Berriman Eaton 9 Fencing & Gates Profence 46 Fireplaces & Stoves Flaming Fires 17 Wolverhampton Fireplaces 13 Financial Advisors Midland Independent Financial Services 14/15 Fitness & Leisure Centres South Staffordshire Leisure 97 WV Active 101 Furniture & Furnishings Merridale Furnishers 13 Ralvern 37 Sofa Factory Outlet 31 Garage Refurbishment Services Danmarque Garages 49 Garage Services HiQ Tyres 139 Garden Design Boningale Garden Creations 57 Gardening & Landscaping Carvers Building Supplies 55 Lealans Garden Centre 53 The Potting Shed 46 Glass & Hardware Specialists Tech Alum System 39 Glazing Repairs Blakes Glass & Glazing 46 Golf Clubs Oxley Golf Club 137 South Staffordshire Golf Club 135 Hairdressers Royston Blythe 86 Salon 27 95 Health Care Cover Paycare 109 Home Repairs Wolverhampton Homes 47 Hospices Compton Hospice 111 Hospitals – Private Nuffield 103 Hotels Copthorne Hotel 77 Mount Hotel 73 Park House Hotel 83 Italian Deli Corbelli’s 60 I.T. Media & Communications Concero 115 Jewellers T.A.Henn 6/7

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Kitchen Doors - Replacement Dream Doors 25 Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit Bespoke Kitchens 19 Dream Doors 25 Eaton Kitchens 29 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 34/35 MBH Builders 27 Legal Services Manby Bowdler Solicitors 113 Sharratts 117 Letting Agents Berriman Eaton 9 Lighting Lighting R Us 33 Music Lessons Rick Hampton 69 Music Shops Music 2000 68 Opticians Taylor Biddle 85 Orthopaedic Surgery Wolverhampton Hip & Knee Clinic 107 Painters & Decorators Kevin Jackson 50 Patrick Bellew 50 Plumbing & Heating JB Plumbing & Heating 50 MBH Builders 27 Restaurants/Pubs Copthorne Hotel 77 Cowshed 81 Halfpenny Green Vineyards 75 Mount Hotel 73 Park House Hotel 76/83 The Oakley Arms 80 The Shrewsbury Arms 80 Wombourne Tandoori 76 Skip Hire Wolverhampton Skip Hire 50 Taxis ABC Cars 59 Theatres The Grand Theatre 116/148 Tiles & Interiors Heart of Stone 47 Tile Choice 5 Tyres HiQ Tyres 139 Vein Clinics Simon Hobbs 92 Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Vineyards 75 Wallpaper, Paints & Decorator Accessories S J Dixon & Son 23 Wedding Venues Copthorne Hotel 77 Mount Hotel 73 Park House Hotel 83 Windows, Conservatories, Orangeries Tettenhall Windows 19

141

New E - C l a ss

a t Mercedes-Benz

by Rob Taylor

One visit to MercedesBenz Wolverhampton is all it takes to convince me that the future is already here. Still this city’s premier purveyor of premium goods, the landmark Penn Road-based business is a car dealership selling second to none vehicles and service.

It is a citadel wherein discerning car buyers can enjoy an outlet for their passions and steer a path towards motoring nirvana.

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I arrive jaded and drawn after a colourful morning journey into Wolverhampton on one of National Express West Midlands’ overworked ‘engines of The People.’

Of course, as is true of every bus journey, I am dropped off precisely where I don’t want to be at a time precisely when is least convenient. Thank goodness, I chunter quietly, Karl Benz invented the seminal Motorwagen in 1886 and ultimately made us all masters of our own destination. Although neither he nor any disciple of Futurism after him would ever have dared to dream that automotive innovation, style and luxury would come to be embodied quite so majestically at it is in the car I will soon be driving: the all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe.

beauty of contemporary car design by harmoniously fusing it with cutting edge functionality and time-honoured practicality. It is a beast rich with life - the beauty of the machine, speed, comfort, and progress. And it looks fantastic parked amid much more mercurial Mercedes-Benz metal on the dealership’s forecourt. Sit inside and you’ll soon forget all that grandiosity because the E-Class has just so many wonderful treats for the senses. Stealing attention first is the impressive optional 2 x 12.3-inch Widescreen cockpit display, (The left is COMAND online £1,495 the right widescreen cockpit £495) which creates one floating screen, and allows for customisable display options with three display styles: ‘Classic’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Progressive’.

A celebration of advanced technology and urban modernity, the E-Class demonstrates the

This is a cabin packed to the gunwales with technology, laden with soft-touch materials, which are wolverhampton west magazine

finished to designer standards, and dripping with enough opulence and style to impress even the fortunate few, in support of a lifestyle most people will never know. Sales Executive Edward Spencer tells me about how the brand supports such a lifestyle: “The idea is that there’s a smooth transition from, lets say, disembarking from a private jet and getting into a Mercedes-Benz.”

You can imagine the kind of culture shock I suffer after stepping off a faintly whiffy number 255 – I’m like Crocodile Dundee in New York.

Edward goes on to explain the Mercedes me experience, which is a package of innovative services and lifestyle offers that connects you to your car via your tablet or smartphone using an app. It helps you in the event of a breakdown or an accident – there’s a live-link to a helpdesk; allows for you to store your preferences, such as your favourite radio stations etc; provides Trip information and vehicle status remotely to both you and your dealer and, best of all for OCD types like me, gives users remote door locking, which allows you to lock and unlock your car wherever you are in the world.

Buy the £69 Mercedes me Vehicle Monitoring package and through Geofencing it’ll even show police where to find it if it’s been stolen.

Plus, with Parked Vehicle Tracker, you’ll never again forget where you’ve parked your car because the system will locate the vehicle within a range of one mile and even plot a route back to it for you. This is the stuff of Sci-Fi. And on a simple level, because he knows me for the big kid that I am, Edward also points out all of the cool stuff too, like the

reversing camera, which pokes its nose out of the marque’s familiar three-pointed emblem. Now it’s time to take a keyless stab at starting up.

This is expected to be the most popular variant of three different engine configurations: the 2 litre 194bhp diesel-fuelled 9-Speed Automatic E220d Coupe, presented in AMG Line Premium Plus spec.

Needless to say I’m not surprised at its popularity. The £3,895 Premium Plus package adds a lot of extra garnish for your money, most notably a panoramic electric glass sunroof with rain-sensing auto-close function; Burmester surround sound system with 13 speakers and a Multi-beam LED Intelligent Light System which includes – along with much more – 84 individually-controlled LEDs and integrated daytime running lamps.

Cruising around the streets of Wolverhampton on the optional 20” AMG alloys in such a stylish shell – which, according to MercedesBenz, ‘takes its cues from AMG performance experts, focused on sporty design as well as athletic handling’; screened by privacy glass and bathed in mid-May sunshine is enough to make a man feel very V.I.P indeed – enough even to roll back the electric sunroof and give praise to the heavens. If only Mercedes-Benz had released the forthcoming convertible version first, I wonder. Still, there’s more than enough to keep me satisfied right now: performance is ample, yet not vulgar – 0-60 mph takes around 7.4 seconds; comfort and ride quality is peerless; ergonomics, driving position and comfort is spoton; the tech is cutting edge and intuitive to use and the automatic gearbox is a well-mannered companion, keen to serve just enough power, just when required.

Fuel economy is laudable at 61.4 mpg and emissions are more than respectable at just 119 g/km Co2.

Drive the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class if you love drama, style and refinement. Drive it today.

And drive it all day long.

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV2 4HD www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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ALL NEW LEXUS LC LC PREVIEW EVENT 26-27 July at The Mercure Telford Madeley Court Hotel The LC marks the beginning of a new phase for Lexus. Engineering expertise and expressive design unite in this flagship luxury coupe, setting new standards for performance, styling and craftsmanship.

Based on an entirely new rear – wheel drive layout and precisely engineered to deliver superior handling, the LC offers a driving experience like no other.

Taking hybrid performance to the next level - and demonstrating our lead in this technology - the new LC 500h luxury coupe is powered by the world’s first Multi Stage Hybrid.

Combining the power of a V6 engine with that of an advanced electric motor, the drivetrain amplifies output through a 4-speed transmission, delivering an incredibly direct 10-speed driving experience. Capable of accelerating from zero to 60 mph in just five seconds, the system’s immense torque makes this the first Lexus hybrid capable of spinning its driving wheels.

Yet despite this exhilarating performance, the LC 500h also delivers the fuel efficiency and low emissions that you’d associate with a Lexus hybrid.

The LC has the stiffest chassis of any Lexus car, setting a world-class benchmark, which will serve as the blueprint for future models. This results in sharper and more precise handling for a smoother performance. We’ve used the same carbon-fibre composite technology we developed for the LFA, shown in the compressionmoulded sheets of Pre-impregnated carbon fibre in the LC’s inner door panels.

The LC will be available to book a Test Drive on July 26th/27th at the Mercure Telford Madeley Court Hotel, call us on 01902 690 023 to be one of the UK’s first to experience the LC in the flesh.

EXPERIENCE AMAZING AT LEXUS WOLVERHAMPTON Bilston Road, Wolverhampton WV2 2QE 01902 690 023 wolverhampton.lexus.co.uk Lexus range fuel economy figures: extra urban 36.2-70.6 mpg (7.8-4.0 L/100km), urban 17.5-68.9 mpg (16.1-4.1 L/100km), combined 26.2-68.9 mpg (10.8-4.1 L/100km). CO2 emissions 251-94 g/km. 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. 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.

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WOLVERHAMPTON

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The C-Class Cabriolet

Unlimited opening times Summer is included Customers opting for a cabriolet like to drive as often as possible with the top down. The fact that, also in the C-Class Cabriolet – as in the E- and S-Class Cabriolets – the occupants can enjoy maximum open-air comfort is made possible

by AIRCAP and AIRSCARF, which make the joys of fresh air pleasant even at low temperatures.

Inconspicuously integrated into the roof frame, the electric AIRCAP draught stop system was specially developed for Mercedes-Benz cabriolets and is coupled to an electric draught stop behind the rear seats, which reduces the interior turbulence also for the rear passengers at the press of a button. AIRCAP is part of the Cabriolet Comfort package, which also includes AIRSCARF neck-level heating for the driver and front passenger. The combination of these two systems extends the open-top season to the entire year.

Alternatively, there is also the option of a retrofitted manual folding draught stop behind the front seats. This noticeably stops draughts in the front seats.

Suspension: sportily agile and comfortable The suspension offers a high level of comfort with low road roar and tyre vibration characteristics while ensuring agile driving dynamics – the basis for driving enjoyment.

The suspension on the Cabriolet, which is 15 millimetres lower in comparison with the Saloon, comes as standard with steel springs with a selective damping system. An optional sports suspension with firmer springing and damping, including the Sports Direct-Steer system, makes for even more agile handling.

Riding on air The Cabriolet is optionally available with AIRMATIC air suspension.

Its electronically controlled, continuously adjustable damping on the front and rear axles ensures low road roar and tyre vibration characteristics in every situation.

DYNAMIC SELECT – standard with AIRMATIC and optionally available with a steel suspension – allows the driver to choose their desired setting: sporty, comfortable or fuel-efficient. To this end, the driver can select one of five transmission modes using the DYNAMIC SELECT switch: “ECO”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport Plus” and “Individual”. Selecting “Individual” allows the driver to customise the vehicle settings to suit their personal preferences.

Dynamic: 4 and 6-cylinder engines and, for the first time, 4MATIC Powerful and efficient petrol and diesel engines with ECO start/stop function and an extensive 4MATIC range make for sporty performance and driving pleasure all year round. All are compliant with the Euro 6 emissions standard.

Six petrol engines are available for the Cabriolet. The range of outputs extends from the 1.6-litre four-cylinder unit in the C 180 rated at 115 kW (156 hp) to the 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine in the Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Cabriolet (270 kW/367 hp). The C 200 is optionally available with 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

The diesel models are powered by a four-cylinder engine delivering 125 kW (170 hp) in the C 220 d or 150 kW (204 hp) in the C

250 d and are equipped with eco-friendly SCR technology (Selective Catalytic Reduction) for exhaust after treatment. 4MATIC is available for the C 220 d.

The new 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission can be ordered for all engine variants.

Sensitive climate control for open-air driving Specially developed for cabriolets, the climate control system responds to whether the vehicle is being driven with the roof up or down. With the roof closed, the system performs in the same way as in the Coupé. With the soft top down, the climate control system adapts by, for example, blowing warmer air onto the driver’s hands on the steering wheel and deactivating the air recirculation function. The special adjustments for open-top driving make allowance for whether cooling or heating is required and respond sensitively to the transition zones in between.

Peter Smith, General Manager of Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton added “The C-Class Cabriolet is the first ever open-top C-Class”. The excellent choice of diesel and petrol engines will prove popular with our customers.

Experience the drive first hand, call us on 01902 427897 to book a test drive today.”

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV2 4HD 146

wolverhampton west magazine

The C-Class Cabriolet Unlimited opening times

Call us on 01902 276977 to book a test drive.

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton Penn Road, Wolverhampton WV2 4HD Call us on 01902 276977

Model shown is a C-Class C200 Cabriolet. Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the new C-Class Cabriolet range: urban 23.5(12.0)–54.3(5.2), extra urban 39.2(7.2)–72.4(3.9), combined 31.7(8.9)–62.8 (4.5). CO2 emissions 208-116 g/km. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors.

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147

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