Wolverhampton West June 2015

WOLVERHAMPTON WEST MAGAZINE

June 2015

Win tickets for Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap at The Grand Theatre Win family tickets for the Cosford Food Festival

JUNE 2015

Delivered to areas of: Codsall, Codsall Wood, Oaken, Bishops Wood, Tong, Coven, Brewood, Compton, Tettenhall, Claregate, Finchfield, Castlecroft, Penn, Merry Hill & Bradmore 01

Local Magazine delivered to 24,500 Selected Homes and Businesses*

t a E e? m If your dentures can’t, it’s time to call us Implant overdentures: a permanent fix for stability problems Telephone 01902 420654 for a complimentary consultation

An Independent Dental Practice 02

82 Tettenhall Road Wolverhampton WV1 4TF www.mytis.co.uk part of Jon Pugh Dental wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Hello Readers This news just in: we have a Conservative majority in government. Shock number two: our old leader is now our new leader. Shock number three: SNP now own Scotland. Shock number four: seeing Liberal Democrats’ stalwart Lord Ashdown on TV still makes me chuckle at memories of the classic 90s Sun newspaper headline – ‘It’s Paddy Pantsdown!’

But forget ‘national’, we’re ‘local’ and where it’s at and we’re full of facts on where’s best to eat locally (and we’ve got three restaurant reviews to prove it); where’s the place to shop for home and garden improvement must-haves; and where’s the local hair/ beauty salon du jour.

We’re not afraid to wave our wares in the air like we just don’t care - in fact we’ve been doing it successfully in this here magazine for five years now. In this edition we major on the surprising surge in the uptake of cosmetic surgery by men and the over 65s in Wolverhampton, according to Nuffield Health.

June brings with it Father’s Day and this June 21st promises to reward Pops like never before, first up is Kinver Country Fayre. Already a firm favourite of many, this year the Father’s Dayattraction boasts a top-notch medieval jousting display team, who have galloped straight from the silver screen. Then – just one month later – there’s Cosford Food Festival. What could be more macho than eating grub outdoors while in the shadow of a giant Hercules aircraft at the home of our local area’s answer to Top Gun? We also have a section on Golf to tickle your fancy.

And, if you’re in need of a dentist/ chiropodist/ optician (and if you’re reading this on our digital online edition in XXL font, then you do) we’ve got what you need. As always. And that’s something no government can mess with.

Enjoy your read…

See you in August…

Geoff

Lytham Rd, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY Tel: 01902 744217 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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 (www.s28.co.uk) We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Wolverhampton West Magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, The Publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert or editorial. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Wolverhampton West Magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise without the prior consent Wolverhampton West Magazine Ltd.

Contents The local property market by Nick Berriman Pinpointing Penkridge Tettenhall Fete Royston Blythe coffee morning Carver Wolverhampton Marathon Crosswords & Puzzles Wolverhampton businesses back first Midlands Youth Zone Recipe of the month Father’s Day Voices for Hospices Decking and garden furniture Bedrooms The road to Delhi Rotary Club of Wolverhampton Meet the Boss Gardening with Ann Winwood Knights of Middle England star at Kinver Country Fayre Cosford Food Festival Halfpenny Green Vineyards food review Shrewsbury Arms food review Kings Repose food review Trysull Church Flower Festival Royston Blythe - essential summer style Explained: The science behind skin care Trend Up-Date: summer style Social scene Toms tip From little acorns Grand Theatre competition Education and Schooling Golf Tip Answers to puzzles Sounds like love – Alfa Romeo Guilietta Suzuki and Mitsubishi from Autosales Mercedes-Benz B-CLASS Barlow Motors Seat

8 12 14 14 18 22 24 26 28 30 36 38 42 44 46 58 62 66 70/71 74/75 76/77 78 80/81 84 94/95 98-103 109 110/111 114 118 122 136 138 140 142 146

Winners of the Twelve Angry Men competition at The Grand Theatre Mrs R Harrison, Brewood Mr Mark Downing, Codsall Louise Price, Finchfield Winner of the hairdressing experience at Salon 27 Mrs Natalie Lockhart Mann, Finchfield Winner of The Shrewsbury Arms competition Mrs Carla Leslie, Codsall

*Total distribution 24,500 copies across 2 months

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

03

Key Industry Award for thriving

Midlands Retailer

which is essentially what everybody is looking for from a retail perspective”.

L-R: Steve Ball TTA, Kevin Beasley, Tile Choice Managing Director and Gavin Maiden, Tile Choice Director

A leading Midlands independent tile retail chain is celebrating a successful business year after winning a prestigious industry award.

Tile Choice, whose headquarters are based in Wolverhampton and now have sixteen stores throughout the central region, attended the 2015 TTA Crystal Anniversary Awards in Birmingham, where they were recognised for their business excellence in the retail sector winning the Gold Award for “Multiple Retailer of the Year”.

The Tile Association represents all aspects of the wall and floor tile industry in the UK, from manufacture to installation. Formed in January 2000, The Tile Association represents the whole of the UK wall and floor tile industry under one organisation. The Awards recognise and reward the innovative designs and projects that have happened over the last year, as well as appreciate the consistently high level of customer service shown by retailers within the Industry.

Centre in Solihull, on Saturday 18th April, along with a black tie dinner for the estimated 400 people who attended, and was hosted

by TV presenter Emma Jesson.

Marketing Manager at Tile Choice, Lee Rudkin was particularly proud of the company’s achievement, “This is the third time in the last four years we have won Multiple Retailer of the Year”. “As a company, we’ve been working very hard within the retail sector and have continued to see some great results because of our dedication to make Tile Choice the market leader”.

“We are great believers in utilising our experience within our industry to focus on providing only excellent customer service and products,

“From the quality products we offer, which are bought in bulk from trusted suppliers allowing us to pass on significant in-store savings, to the way they are presented in each specific store, we like to make each shopping experience as enjoyable as possible for domestic and trade customers alike”.

“And of course, it’s all down to individual style, so we make sure we stay up to date with the latest interior design fashions as well as continuing to offer traditional products to keep ahead of our competition, and remain always able to offer people a much wider choice”.

“We are extremely proud to be recognised by our piers at The Tile Association for the work our dedicated team have put in to making Tile Choice such a success”.

The TTA Awards is now in its 15th year and is still growing fast. This year, the awards were held at St John’s Hotel and Conference 04

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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The Bespoke Experience Make it Personal, Make it Special, Make it your own…

At T.A. Henn, we have been creating bespoke pieces for customers for generations as well as remodelling outdated jewellery with beautiful content giving it the opportunity to be worn again by the next generations.

Seeing a client’s face light up when we present designs of what we can do with their piece of jewellery is very rewarding. Delivering the final item is indeed a special moment for us all.

Jewellery gathers a lot of emotion that’s why we’ll work with you to design or re-style an

existing piece to reflect what you are trying to achieve whether it is a ring, brooch, pendant, earrings or all of them! Some of the Victorian pieces have been known to give birth to a whole family of new pieces!

Perhaps you have a clear vision of what you would like us to do – some of our clients bring in pictures of a preferred style – but it is not essential.

Guided by your preferences we will come up with suggestions and work closely with you during this process.

We can work with existing diamonds and coloured stones when remodelling jewellery and can source new stones from all over the world. Anything is possible…

Just In this Spring…

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07

The local

property market

by Nick Berriman

availability of mortgages and interest rates have an effect but confidence is paramount. It does seem at the moment that all the defining factors are favourable so the future should be bright. This morning there were press headlines that there was a scramble for houses as the market shrinks. This was attributed to few properties being offered for sale because of fears of the mansion tax, increases in stamp duty and election jitters. I am sure the journalists had some justification for their story but readers; I have to tell you this is far removed from the market we are experiencing. For one thing there are few properties in this area where the mansion tax is relevant, most of the properties in and around Wolverhampton will benefit from the new stamp duty rates and we have found in the last few months that the number of new instructions is running at a very high rate.

We are now in what is traditionally the best selling time of the year. The weather is getting better, people are emerging from their winter hibernation and there is a feeling of optimism in the air. This year in particular there is a sense that the economy is through the worst and showing definite signs of improvement.

In recent past weeks the market did not seem to experience the usual pre election blues and now that it is all over we can look forward to a period of stability. We must now wait to see which of the manifesto pledges come true and which were vote seeking hot air - and that applies to all parties !

More than anything else the market depends on confidence. Obviously the state of the economy, the 08

This tends to show how far removed from the rest of the country the market in London and the South East has become.

There was a saying that when America sneezes England gets a cold tomorrow. The same applied to the property market. Whatever happened in London would happen to us in due course but that is no longer true. The London market is idiosyncratic. It is affected by factors far removed from the rest of the country. Its top end is fuelled by foreign money. Arab money, Russian money, money that we only see on holiday and certainly not money that has an effect on property sales in Tettenhall or Trysull. So London and parts of the South East go their own way and the only effect on us comes from the pens of journalists looking for a story.

the chairman of a national building society advised people to buy now as they would not be able to afford to buy if they left it too long. That fuelled the first of the well known booms, followed as ever by an equally well known bust - didn’t someone well known say he’d fixed that? There has been rather more stability in recent years and the time when houses were seen as rapidly rising money making machines has gone for the time being and should not be mourned. People now are buying the houses they want to live in and not the ones they think will appreciate the most.

As I said above we have experienced a high volume of instructions in recent months and sales have been good with the top end of the market showing signs of recovery.

As a non-political comment I have to say that there have been so many promises of increased funding from all parties for everything under the sun that perhaps we should have an election every year!

Stories and flip comments can have an effect. Shortly after the last war there was a house price boom which was short lived. The market was then sound and predictable with small percentage rises each year until the early 1970s when wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Property of the Month THE ROOKERY, STOURBRIDGE ROAD, WOMBOURNE, WV5 9BN A magnificent residence with immense presence standing in a fine area with extensive and flexible accommodation.

The elegant property has a superb main house with three reception rooms, orangery, kitchen/dining room, four bedrooms, study, bathroom and shower room together with an adjoining two storey annex with reception room, garden room, kitchenette, shower room and two bedrooms.

Detached triple garage block, gated drive and superb grounds. Total area approx. 0.5 acres. (EPC: D).

OFFERS AROUND ÂŁ1,185,000 VIEWING: Please contact the Tettenhall Office.

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

www.berrimaneaton.co.uk 09

13 Ravenhill Drive Codsall WV8 1BQ A well presented detached bungalow close to the heart of the South Staffordshire Village of Codsall.

Entrance hall, lounge, kitchen, inner hallway, master bedroom with built in wardrobes, second bedroom and bathroom. Paved drive, car port, garage and a south facing rear garden.

FOR SALE

(EPC: D). TETTENHALL OFFICE.

OFFERS AROUND ÂŁ195,000 VIEWING Please contact the Tettenhall Office.

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

10

www.berrimaneaton.co.uk

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

advertisement feature

How often do you find a truly community minded developer?

The answer is – quite rarely!

When DBA Homes acquired their current residential development site in a leafy South Staffordshire village the decision was quite simple.

Did they follow the usual tried and tested, and normally more profitable, route of building large executive detached family homes aimed squarely at the upper end of the market or did they try to attract a younger population to the village with the creation of much more affordable and smaller homes to enable a larger cross section of population to be able to afford to move into a rural idyll. Surprisingly the answer was the latter and The Limes @ Codsall Wood was begun.

The Limes @ Codsall Wood is a well planned cul-de-sac development of ten houses with just two detached four bedroomed properties sitting comfortably alongside eight generously proportioned semi detached homes, all of which have been thoughtfully designed to provide ideal living spaces for modern families.

Codsall Wood is a small and rural South Staffordshire hamlet which stands approximately 1.5 miles to the north west of Codsall Village Centre. The hamlet boasts a thriving and friendly community spirit which is centred around The Crown, a highly regarded local inn and restaurant facility. Codsall itself provides a comprehensive array of local facilities and Wolverhampton city centre itself is within particularly easy reach. The site stands within striking distance of the highly publicised i54 Business Park and the area is well served by schooling of high repute in both sectors.

Again, with the aim of helping younger families to purchase, DBA Homes have enrolled within the government backed Help to Buy Scheme which is designed to assist first time buyers in obtaining mortgage finance. The scheme provides equity loans, backed by the government, on new build developments to qualifying buyers who have a 5% deposit for the

purchase. The government will then lend up to 20% of the value of the new house which is interest free for five years. This gives buyers for The Limes @ Codsall Wood the chance to be able to achieve their dream of being able to move into the countryside into a superb new home for less than £200,000 (once the government loan is factored in).

Another one of The Limes @ Codsall Woods attractions is the environmentally friendly nature of the site. Andy Timbrell, the Managing Director of DBA Homes, confirms that DBA Homes is fully committed to building environmentally friendly homes and communities. “We feel that protection of the environment is key and, as builders, we want to ensure that everything possible is done to make our homes as Green as we can”. All of the insulation in the properties is to the highest of standards, A rated boilers are installed as a matter of course, photovoltaic panels will be fitted to all of the houses and the lighting will be low energy and efficient LED bulbs.

Already four of the homes at the site have been reserved at an early stage and there is significant interest in the remainder of the homes.

If you have any queries about the development or would like to visit the site with a view to purchase then please contact the sole selling agents, Berriman Eaton, at their Tettenhall Office on 01902 747744. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

11

Pinpointing Penkridge keep under lock and key, but that I did instead want to access that most unwanted and tangible vestige of history, a book. I soon found a relevant example and read with interest on a subject that has confounded better minds than mine. For years it seems boffins of all kinds – from the bespectacled to the out and out living-in-mum’sbasement-aged-45 bonkers – have puzzled over this very issue, namely where’s that ridge?

When it comes to names it’s often better to be literal.

Admittedly naming your newborn baby ‘Baby’ is taking things a little too far, but go too far into abstract and you can end up with Michael Jackson’s son, ‘Blanket’. So when researching the etymology of the market town of Penkridge, I felt I was already ahead of the game.

Having already a smidgen of local geographical sympathy I figured that the ‘Penk’ derives from the neighbouring River Penk and that the ‘Ridge’ must denote, well, a ridge. But there is no ridge – or anything even approximating a ridge – in or near to Penkridge.

Such natural forms do not readily move, even over the passing of millennia, so where could it be I wondered. My brain strained under the weight of much excruciating cogitation before, at the exact moment when the first blood vessel burst in my twitching left nostril, I was forced to dispense with my cursory condescension to research (read: using Google) and delve deep into the dark, dank and dusty dustbin of the past (read: visit my local library).

But there’s more. It turns out that my initial assumption about the River Penk may be spurious too. It seems that the river ‘Penk’ takes its name from the original Penkridge settlement – known in its Celtic form as Pen-crug – and not the other way around. As for the ridge, well the best guess is that it refers to Rowley Hill tumulus, which is a mound to you and I. However, the town today is a welcome distraction from all such academia. Already a popular draw for locals and those keen to take advantage of its fantastic communication links – Penkridge sits smack bang on the A449, is just north of the A5 and lies just south of an M6 junction – Penkridge Market is a twice weekly tradition that is the town’s most familiar touchstone. Held in the area between Pinfold Lane and the river, for years the site of livestock

By Rob Taylor

sales, it has emerged as the new centrepoint for trade in the town.

Away from the open stall traders, there is much to see and do.

The grade I-listed church of St. Michael and All Angels dates back to the early thirteenth century and is visible to travellers on the A449. There are some fifteenth and sixteenth century buildings and Penkridge has its own historic stocks and cells.

Furthermore, and in particular due to a major residential resurgence in the 1980s, the town is a substantial shopping centre. Although having only one large store, the Cooperative supermarket, a wealth of independent shops, cafés, inns and services occupy the area between the Old Market and Stone Cross.

Pay a visit to Penkridge on any given day - but particularly on market day - and it’ll come alive in a way that makes all nonsense about names totally redundant.

After much fighting with staff I was able to convince them that I wasn’t there to book an appointment with one of the three aged RM Nimbus PCs that they boastfully 12

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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13

Tettenhall Fete 2015

Celebrating its 17th year, this year’s Tettenhall Village Fete looks set to be the biggest and best yet! Top attractions include entertainment from local dance and theatre groups, Wolf Mountain with their climbing wall and a ‘Round the World’ food court from some of Wolverhampton’s finest eateries!

selection of yummy cakes made by local residents (donations are greatly appreciated!). West Midlands Concert Orchestra will also be performing on the day. The event will be attended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Wolverhampton.

Through the Fete, Tettenhall Round Table hope to generate in excess of £5000 on the day for Children’s Wish - a small, national charity that grants wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses - as well as raising funds for other local causes.

Signal 107 will again be in attendance throughout the day along with local businesses, charities and organisations who will be providing refreshments and entertainment including a bouncy castle, tombola and the now legendary Tettenhall Round Table Tea Tent kindly packed with a fine

Tettenhall Village Fete takes place on Sunday 5th July on Tettenhall Village Green.

Entrance is free all day.

Your support will be greatly appreciated by all involved and also by all who will benefit from the donations!

Contact: Robert Buka (Tettenhall Round Table PR and Media Officer) Mobile: 07834 374181 Email: rob@ellieandoscars.co.uk Chris Harris (Tettenhall Fete Chairman) Mobile: 07818 415522 Email: chris.harris13@btopenworld.com

Compton Hospice Coffee Morning Hosted by Royston and Nick Celebrity hairdressers Royston Blythe and Nick Malenko held a fun-filled fundraising coffee morning at their home on Monday 13th April in aid of a very worthy cause, Compton Hospice.

Keen to get involved in raising funds for the local charity Royston and Nick offered up their beautiful home as the venue for the event that’s usually organised

by Royston’s friend’s mother, Margaret Watton.

Royston explains: “Margaret usually holds the coffee morning at her home, but we thought it would be nice to have it at our house for a change. There were over 150 people who bought tickets.”

Local ladies made a wonderful selection of delicious cakes to sell at the event and businesses in the area donated their products and services to ensure the event was a success.

“Everyone was so generous - the homemade cakes were gorgeous - and thanks to Village Catering, Codsall and Gluttons for Nourishment, Tettenhall we had a wonderful selection of food.”

“Julie Bates from Peony Flowers in Shifnal supplied table arrangements, RJ Hipkiss & Sons Butchers from Compton donated a gift voucher for the raffle and the owners of Bayliss & Harding sent some lovely gift packs.”

Supplying the coffee and Prosecco, Royston and Nick had also arranged a special treat: “We had Butlers in the Buff serving the drinks - the ladies loved it. Everyone said it was the best Monday morning they’d ever had.”

14

Providing the entertainment were two musical acts: a pianist from Manchester and an international soul singer.

The event raised an incredible £3000, which has delighted Royston and Nick: “We’re so pleased to have helped to raise so much money for such a wonderful local charity. I want to say a big thank you to everyone who supported us - it was an amazing morning.”

In fact, it wasn’t just a morning: “The event was planned to be held between 10:30am and 12:30pm but there was still plenty of people here at 4:30pm - it was great!”

Everyone who attended will be pleased to know that Royston and Nick plan on doing it all again in the near future. wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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Carver Wolverhampton

marathon events Planning is well underway for the 2015 events scheduled to take place on SUNDAY 6th SEPTEMBER. The Marathon and Half Marathon are very popular with runners from not just Wolverhampton but all across the country. The organisers are well into the planning now and it is hoped that we can capture the sense of community spirit in West Park again.

Race Director/Chair Mary Harding says: “Now in its 18th year the events have grown with The Banks’s 10K replacing the relays and the Cousins 20K cycle ride, always popular with families. Alongside all of that the children’s mini marathon encourages youngsters to take part and this year we are pleased to announce the introduction of the 3K Walk in the Park kindly sponsored by Call Print. It is hoped that families will enter for the walk and feel part of the events. There will be medals for all finishers.

Entries are coming in each day and we are now on Facebook and Twitter if anyone would like to send us a message. Online entries can be made through the marathon website www.carverwolverhamtonmarathonevents.co.uk or via Carvers Building Supplies.

The Committee are always looking for volunteers to help with the many duties on Marathon weekend.

This could involve manning a water station or marshalling around the course or duties in the park”.

It is a great event for the city and good fun to be part of. Mary hopes that the loyal sponsors and supporters feel they get some promotion through the events. It certainly would not be the success it has become without their backing.

For more details visit the website www.carverwolverhamptonmarathonevents.co.uk 18

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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Treat your home with

Merridale Furnishers

Longer days, better weather, and new life - that’s what Spring brings us - and at Merridale Furnishers we’re celebrating this start of a new season by adding six exciting contemporary ranges to our store.

Alongside our current collection, our customers will now be treated to a superb new range of stylish solid oak painted and pine furniture that will effortlessly transform your home, plus a great selection of fresh new blinds in a huge choice of designs.

Merridale Furnishers has been helping local people update their homes with beautiful furniture since 1969 – so it’s fair to say we’ve got to know what our customers like and want more of. That’s why we’re excited to be bringing these new lines into our store, because we’re confident these striking pieces are exactly what your home’s been looking for.

truly believe that our furniture is the best you can buy. It’s long-lasting, sturdy, and – above all - extremely elegant. Plus, thanks to the unique character of the oak itself, each piece has its own individual finish, which is highlighted thanks to hand-finishing processes like waxing and oiling. There’s simply no doubt, that when it comes to furnishing either a traditional or contemporary home, our top of the range new furniture makes a wise investment.

Our fresh new blinds, meanwhile, are a stylish and easy way to update your home and add a statement look. Our new selection of blinds

come in styles from all-time classics such as roman and wooden blinds, to modern offerings such as the roller blind and truly contemporary panel blind. With so many different styles of blind and fabric choices, we are pleased to be able to offer you blinds that will add the perfect finishing touch to every room in your home.

For instance, you could try a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-inspired design for a child’s playroom, or opt for our fantastically versatile Duplex blinds for a room where you’d like to be able to control privacy with light. These stunning blinds use alternate strips of sheer and dim-out fabric that you control with a chain system to create a look and feel that works for you. Every home needs blinds – they’re easy and simple to use, can really make a statement, and they’re available in designs suited to every room’s needs.

So, if your home is in need of a lift, come and see us at our store on Merridale Road. Our experts will be able to talk you through our great new ranges, and help you make the right choice based on what you need. We’ve been helping our customers achieve the best look for their homes for over 40 years, so let us help your family and friends too.

First off, we’ve got our stunning new furniture selection. With designs available in must-have pieces such as tables, chairs, bookshelves, and of course, bedroom furniture.

This top quality furniture will add a sophisticated contemporary look to any room. What’s more, we 20

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

-furnishers.co.uk

DINING ROOM Enjoy dining on fine quality…

LIVING ROOM Relax in stylish surroundings…

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17-25 Merridale Road, Wolverhampton WV3 9RX

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Quick Crossword Down 1 Combines (6) 2 Highways (5) 3 Result (7) 5 Correct (5) 6 Outlive (7) 7 Bowls (6) 8 Escorted (11) 14 Becomes thinner (7) 15 Blow up (7) 16 Reverberates (6) 17 Alter (6) 19 Consent (5) 21 Innocent (5)

Across 1 Small tunnel (6) 4 Rubbed out (6) 9 Stretchy (7) 10 Young females (5) 11 Type of music (5) 12 External (7) 13 Translated (11) 18 Window covering (7) 20 Nip (5) 22 Smell (5) 23 Passion (7) 24 Female relation (6) 25 Harsh (6)

Sudoku

Easy

Hard

Puzzle answers on page 136

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

ACAPELLA

INDIE

ACID ROCK

JAZZ

ACOUSTIC

LATIN

BIG BAND

LOUNGE

BLUEGRASS CABARET DANCE DISCO FLAMENCO FOLK

22

MEXICAN NEW WAVE POLKA PUNK ROCKABILLY SAMBA SOUL

GOTHIC

TANGO

HIP HOP

WALTZ

INDIAN

WORLD wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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23

Wolverhampton businesses back first

Midlands Youth Zone investment in what will be the first facility of its kind in the Midlands.

“Private sector support is vital to the future of Wolverhampton Youth Zone. Without their investment, the Youth Zone cannot happen; however we still need more businesses to get behind the project and invest in our city’s young people, in their future.”

The £5.5 million Youth Zone is being built in the south west corner of Wolverhampton’s ring road and will boast a multi-use four court sports hall and climbing wall, 3rd generation floodlit pitch, fitness and boxing gyms, dance studio, music room, enterprise room, media suite, café, cooking area and a general recreation area.

The Midlands’ first state-of-the-art youth facility, Wolverhampton Youth Zone, due to open in January 2016 has secured Founder Patron support from 10 leading businesses from the region.

Branded ‘The Way’, the Youth Zone needs to achieve 25 Founder Patrons by the time of opening to support its annual running costs of £1million per year. The growing league of Founder Patrons so far includes; Roy Bernard, Keith Bradshaw, FBC Manby Bowdler, John & Helen Gough, Chris Kelly, KGJ Insurance Group, Marstons Plc, Jez & Babette Moxey, John Bowater & Gina Osborne and The Redrow Foundation.

The Youth Zone’s Founder Patrons are a group of individuals and companies united by the same aim; to help Wolverhampton’s young people lead healthier, happier and more aspirational lives by giving them somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to.

Steve Morgan, Chairman of Wolverhampton Youth Zone, said: “We are thrilled to see so many individuals and businesses sharing our vision of delivering quality youth activities in a high quality setting.

With the Youth Zone concept tried and tested in the North West region, we have a compelling proposition for community

The Way promises an exciting range of activities for young people aged eight to 19 (or 25 for those with a disability), ranging from sport, fitness and dance to music, arts and media, coupled with employability, mentoring and leadership skills.

Underpinning the revenue funding from The Way’s Founder Patrons is £5.5 million of capital investment from The Morgan Foundation, The Queen’s Trust, St James’s Place Foundation, Sport England, Garfield Weston, Football Foundation and Keltruck.

Wolverhampton City Council is also investing more than £3m in The Way - towards both the development and running costs.

Becoming a Founder Patron of The Way is a chance for the local businesses and philanthropists to create a legacy for the future of Wolverhampton. Their support and endorsement of the project will serve to encourage others to invest in the future of the city’s young people.

For more information about how to get involved please contact: Alice Davey, General Manager of The Way on 01902 687003 or email alice.davey@thewayyouthzone.org 24

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

25

By Michael Peter Whitehurst Email: mike@takefood.co.uk

recipe of the month

Serves 6 - 8

Lemon Posset with Blueberry compote and Almond biscotti thins EQUIPMENT • Scales • Measuring jugs • 1 large and 3 smaller Mixing bowls • Set of heavy based pans • Lemon zester or the fine side of your grater • Reamer / juicer • Wooden spoon • Spatula • Sieve • 6 - 8 glass jars or tumblers INGREDIENTS POSSET • 600ml double cream • 150g of caster sugar • 2 medium sized unwaxed lemons COMPOTE • 350g frozen blueberries • 50ml water • 50g caster sugar BISCOTTI • 100g Organic plain flour • 1 tsp baking powder • 30g ground almonds • 50g whole skin on almonds • 75g caster sugar • 1 beat up egg • 3 drops of almond extract 26

METHOD Read through once and measure everything out before starting.

POSSET Firstly, pour the cream into a pan on a moderate heat and bring gradually to the boil.

Once bubbling add the caster sugar and whisk until dissolved then add the zest of one lemon and the juice of one lemon, taste the mixture and if not lemony enough add more lemon juice, don’t forget to leave a little juice for the blueberries.

COMPOTE Whilst the cream is coming up to the boil add the blueberries, water, sugar and lemon juice and simmer and stir until a blue jam appears. Once you have a jam consistency remove from heat and divide into glass jars, allow to cool and then pour in the lemon posset mix and allow to cool - you can do this the other way round if you like, lemon first. Although this dessert can be quick setting you should make these the day before or first thing in the morning to be sure they will set ready for dinner.

BISCOTTI Switch your oven on to 170˚C gas mark 3.

Sift the flour, baking powder, salt, ground almonds into a large mixing bowl then add the whole almonds, sugar and egg, mix together with a wooden spoon then bring the mix together with you hands into a dough. Place onto a floured tray and bake in the oven for half an hour and then allow to cool completely - by this time the possets should be starting to set. Once the biscotti is completely cooled slice it into thin slices and turn the oven down to 150oC, gas mark 2 and place back in the oven until crisp.

SERVING SUGGESTION You could make smaller versions of these in shot glasses to serve at a party or as part of a trio of desserts and add lemon flavoured meringue and lavender scented sponge with whipped cream. wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Kitchens with style – modern – contemporary – traditional Our Extensive range of kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms will enable us to create the room of your dreams.

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For a free no obligation quote please call in at: 20 Finchfield Rd West, Finchfield, WV3 8AZ Telephone: 01902 761600 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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 27

Father’s Day

H i s t o ry a n d t r a d i t i o n s the USA before the War, it has only been over a number of years that Father’s Day has come to be observed as regularly as is Mother’s Day. The commercial side to another day on which to buy things has not escaped the retailers in every High Street in the country, with predictable results. All the shops you can imagine, and some you probably can’t, are offering suitable gifts for Father’s Day. There is however a deeper significance attached to the day that is wholly of the 1980s.

With the rise of the feminist movement and the general acceptance that men and women are equal in all respects, there has, without question, to be a day for thinking about and honouring fathers, as there is for mothers.

How could it be otherwise? What is sauce for the goose.. after all!

The origin of Father’s Day is a bit of an import. It hails, as do so many other semicommercial innovations to our calendar, from the United States.

Apparently way back in 1910, a certain Mrs John Bruce Dodd of Spokane, having thought up the idea, and having also made herself a nuisance to the Governor of Washington, got the day officially recognised by that poor gentleman, probably in self-defence. Then as now, there is no more determined person on earth, than the All American Matron with a cause on her mind.

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The day received only spasmodic recognition for the next quarter century. Support grew however, and by 1935 it had become a fully-fledged day of celebration observed throughout the USA. There of course it might have stayed, had it not been for the subsequent War and the influx of GIs flooding this country, bringing with them, many of their habits and customs. The concept of a day for remembering fathers, far from home, fighting in various parts of the world, destined perhaps never to return, was too good to overlook. Slowly the day began to insinuate itself into our way of life.

Its general acceptance however has not been fast and as in

However far you decide to go in remembering your father, it is worth bearing in mind that not only is it hard for the 21st century woman to assert her rights and take an equal place in society alongside her husband, it is equally hard for the 21st century man to adjust to the new set of circumstances. Not a point to be overlooked perhaps at the time when men’s rights are often overlooked and ignored.

To have a mother after all, you have also to have a father. His contribution is just as vital to the production of children. On Father’s Day you have your opportunity to remember and acknowledge this, so the third Sunday in June is an important day to mark in anyone’s diary.

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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Helen is a member of the CBSO Chorus and has performed with them throughout Europe.

Our aim as a community choir is to foster the cultivation and enjoyment of good music. We are keen to support local charities by raising funds at our concerts. We have long been a keen supporter of Compton Hospice and look forward to maintaining a long and fruitful relationship with them and their remarkable work. Our concert Voices for Hospices will be support Compton Hospice and St Mary’s Hospice, Stourbridge on 10 October 2015 at Dudley Town Hall.

VoiCes

for Hospices Penn Singers is a mixed voice friendly community choir with approximately 70 members who sing under the enthusiastic and imaginative leadership of our musical director Helen Smith.

The choir performs a wide repertoire of music ranging from classical, spiritual, folk and musicals.

Helen has been with the choir for nearly 5 years.

She studied music Birmingham University where she began conducting, working with choirs, orchestras, wind bands as well as musical theatre productions.

Joining us on this occasion will be tenor soloist Russell Painter and the full Jackfield (Elcock Reison) Brass Band.

The Jackfield Brass Band has a long illustrious history dating back to the end of the nineteenth century. It maintains a strong presence in Jackfield village (near Telford) and continues to entertain audiences. In 1998 Chris Lewis became the band’s musical director and under his leadership the band qualified for the National Final’s Great Britain. Coming back up to date the band comprising of approximately 40 talented musicians got off to a flying start in January 2015 at the Butlin’s Mine Workers Concert. The band put on a great performance coming third out of nineteen bands. It has recorded several cds the latest ‘Feeling Good’ received critical acclaim from the Brass Band Press. Anyone who has heard the Jackfield Band will have had an unforgettable experience, contributing to their loyal following throughout the West Midlands.

For tickets or further details contact Brian on 01902 652992 or email: Christine_jeavons@hotmail.com

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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31

COMPTON IN THE PARK! On Sunday June 28th In West Park, Wolverhampton between 10:30am and 8:30pm

Compton Hospice

Caring Together

Charity Reg No: 512387

Local charity Compton Hospice is once again set to take over West Park in Wolverhampton on Sunday June 28th 2015 with their ‘Compton in the Park’ spectacular.

day in style. Rock it out as the sun goes down to all your favourites from the legendary band as you enjoy a beer from the Compton bar.

Now in its 6th Year, the annual event promises to be a great day out for all the family with a range of multicultural entertainment from The Shikidim Belly Dance Troupe and Michelle Lewis’s Ultra Star Cheerleading Squad, kid’s rides and crafts and the very best BBQ food served by The Compton Coffee Shop.

For more information please contact fundraising on 0845 2255 497 or visit https://www.compton-hospice.org.uk/ fundraising/events/compton-in-the-park/

With free entry for all the family, what better way to start off the summer? The fun starts on Sunday June 28th between 10:30am and 8:30pm.

All new for this year the Compton Pantomime, staged by local drama company Mystical Productions, is set to keep the kids entertained with a host of fairy-tale characters, whilst The Paws for Thought Dog Display team will wow dog lovers everywhere with their pawfect performances!

For those that like to get involved in the action there’s the Annual 5 Mile Sponsored Memory Walk and Fun Run, the Compton Cup 5’a side Football Tournament and the Compton Colour Blast 5k run and Colour Party. Plus, our Wolverhampton’s Got Talent section is perfect for those on four legs or two! Bring the kids along to join in with our Strictly Quirkey Dance Performance and Competition, run by the cast and crew of the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts – a prize for the best moves - or enter your pup into our Pet Stop Pooch Parade. Pets really do win prizes!

Phoenix Rising and the UK’s premier Queen Tribute act Queen II take to the stage to round off the 32

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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Spring into Creative Interiors

With a spring in our step we are celebrating our first year in our extended premises! Our main focus for the coming months is updating our windows and interior displays to inspire our customers with their schemes.

The days are getting longer so we have hit the ground running with some beautiful new collections.

Featured here is Amazilia by Harlequin which embraces the trend for bringing the outdoors in.

We offer a full made to measure curtain, blind and upholstery service to achieve this look.

The team see the showroom as an extension of their homes, painting and wallpapering to show customers the latest colours and trends available.

With an eye for detail and some creative flair, the garden can make as much of a style statement as the rest of your home. For the creative team this is an opportunity to use this space and create another ‘room’ to relax in.

Follow us on facebook and sign up for our regular newsletter to keep up with all the latest updates or call in and meet the team.

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Please come and browse in our fabulous extended showrooms at: 24-26 Finchfield Road West, Finchfield, Wolverhampton WV3 8AZ

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35

D ecki n g

and

garden

furniture

Today’s gardens are no longer patches where clothes may be dried and dad can spend weekends tending to a flourishing kitchen garden.

They are extensions of the home in a very real sense. True there are still flowers, shrubs, trees and vegetables but these are less important than the usable accommodation and general appearance of the plot. But people want even more from their gardens and seek designs for patio areas or decking where eating al fresco is just as convenient as having meals indoors. To cater for this growing trend, has come a whole industry devoted to providing you with what you want to help make the best use of the open space around your home.

The concrete or paved patio has been popular for many years, but growing in popularity now is timber decking as the feel of seasoned wood blends with a garden in a way that the patio may lack in certain circumstances. It provides a raised level from which the garden may be enjoyed.

However in some areas, decking may have to comply with building codes and regulations which may amongst other things, regulate setback distances, foundation and deck materials.

Building a simple decking area can be achieved by the average DIY enthusiast as there are stockists for the specialist materials and appropriate fixings.

Garden furniture has been the subject of a major revolution in design over recent years. Once upon a time, seating in the garden was a matter of canvas covered deckchairs, like those hired at the seaside, or basic wooden benchseats. Now all this has changed.

The humble deckchair has been swept away by whole suites of 36

co-ordinated garden furniture that is more comfortable, elegant, and substantial in structure and quite spectacular to look at.

Many supermarkets and most DIY stores and garden centres stock a whole range of patio sets comprising table and chairs made from all-weather resistant plastic resin and priced to suit the average pocket. These can usually be added to with the addition of a parasol fitted into a base through the table, and matching seat pads.

Traditional tubular steel garden furniture is still popular with a full range of hammocks, loungers, relaxers and sunbeds, all easy to assemble, that come with a selection of fabric cushioning.

Cast iron and cast aluminium tables, chairs and bench seating mostly now come in a variety of scrollwork and patterns.

At the top of the range of garden furnishings, but still affordable, are sets of hardwood furniture with usual designs of tables, chairs, benches, swing seats, loungers and gazebos. This sturdily built furniture is often available to buy on a mix and match basis, so items may be added to as and when required or

when finances allow. Again extra seat cushions are usually available, as are parasols with a hardwood pole, wood or cast iron base, and heavy-duty, shower-resistant fabric.

One can never really be sure of the British weather so no garden designed for outdoor entertaining, especially in the evening, is complete without an efficient patio heater designed for use with bottled gas which is hidden away inside the base unit. As a matter of safety, all outside patio and decking areas should be adequately lit, and specialist retailers will have a whole range for you to choose from.

When designing a patio area or decking, allow enough room not only to just accommodate the furniture, one still has to move about and have room to cook at the barbecue. On top of all that a few tubs of flowers and plants will give a finish to the overall appearance.

It is so easy to transfer your patio / decking area into a new, relaxing outdoor lounge. Just visit your local garden centre or specialist garden furniture suppliers, and you certainly will be spoilt for choice.

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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37

O U R B ED R OO M S Most of us spend a large chunk of our lives in our bedrooms - about a third in all, so it’s important that time thus spent is as comfortable and satisfying as it can possibly be.

Bedrooms were once considered merely areas for sleeping, and even thirty years ago, they were very much bottom of the list when it came to providing furnishings and decor. There was certainly little attention paid to creature comforts and the character of those who would be occupying the room.

Fortunately that attitude is very much a thing of the past. Bedrooms today are generally as comfortably furnished, as well appointed and as efficiently lit and heated as the best reception rooms in the house. Today’s bedrooms are rooms that are a pleasure to be in, a supreme comfort to sleep in and a reflection of their inhabitant’s character and good taste.

Fashion affects every area of our lives and the matter of furnishing and decor is no exception. Thus

the way we furnish and furbish our bedrooms is as important as the way we arrange any other part of the home, or indeed how we dress ourselves.

Fashions in bedrooms have changed a lot over the years. Once they were filled with dark, brooding furniture, massive in conception, that stood about the room taking up space but providing comparatively little in terms of storage. This was eventually banished by the fitted bedroom with furniture that rose from floor to ceiling. It provided vast quantities of storage space, ample space for clothes and, with a little ingenuity, even provided special areas for play for children, or for adults to perhaps use as a study or small work station.

The advantages of fitted furniture are many. It has few dust traps, the materials from which it is made are easy to care for, all available space is utilised and it gives a co-ordinated and well-planned appearance.

The wheel has turned full circle, and now free-standing furniture is once again, back in the ascendant.

However, the advantages of the fitted fixtures have not been quite forgotten. The latest bedroom furniture is a judicious mixture of fitted and freestanding units so the owners get the best of all possible worlds.

Perhaps the most important item in any bedroom is the bed itself. Most people spend between 6 - 8 hours in every 24, in bed, so it is essential that bed be comfortable and suit the person actually sleeping in it.

There are literally hundreds of beds to choose from, including:-

38

simple divans, king-sized and super-king-sized beds, pine-framed constructions, hand-crafted wrought-iron beds, four-posters, to the ultimate, the electronic bed that changes its contours, heats the mattress, provides gentle vibratory massage and sits you up according to the way you operate the controls.

On the bed you will require the latest in bedding of course, and duvets are still popular being both comfortable in use and easy to care for. The bed linen to go with the duvet comes in a fantastic range of colours and patterns, and to give your bedroom that ‘all over’ look, you will be able to buy curtains, blinds and lampshades to tone in all round.

Flooring is important in any bedroom. Long gone are the days when linoleum and rug were all that covered the floor. Fitted wall-to-wall carpeting is still the most popular although warm pine flooring with scatter rugs are certainly options to consider.

Lighting is very important in any bedroom. Nobody nowadays will make do with a single ceiling pendant. Lighting should be adaptable to give strong directional light when needed and subtle, indirect illumination when it’s not.

Most people find that no matter how big the room and how many fittings they have there is never enough storage space to accommodate all one wants to keep in the bedroom.

There are dozens of items on the market designed to abandon clutter, including beds with storage drawers, shoe boxes and racks, drawer organisers, and compact clothes hangers that take more than one item of clothing thus utilising the maximum amount of wardrobe space.

So there you have it, the bedroom of today, a room of subtle comfort and beguiling pleasure. A room to go happily to sleep in, to read in, to listen to the radio or watch TV in, certainly a room to spend a good twenty-five years of your life in!

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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10 Year Guarantee Call for a Free Home Visit Call for a Free Brochure 39

built on solid foundations

long standing client, with the inclusion of comprehensive oak joinery throughout. Another project has been re-roofing a period barn with an original oak cut roof. This is in addition to fitting several kitchens and undertaking small plastering and joinery jobs.

Here at Build a Solution we pride ourselves in providing building, construction and design solutions founded on an attention to detail with an emphasis on skilled craftsmanship and the incorporation of traditional and modern building practices.

always looking for exciting and challenging new projects.

We have recently undertaken a large groundworks project for the construction of a new premier dressage equestrian yard.

Including a 7000 tonne dig out for an equestrian arena. A complete start to finish job. We have also been putting the finishing touches to a cottage that we built for a

Each member of the team offer up to 40 years’ experience in the building and construction industry and are fully certified and regulated by governing bodies such as gas safe, NICEIC and CPCS. Please feel free to contact us regarding any queries or advice and one of our friendly team will be happy to help.

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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41

Benham Wolverhampton

The Road to Delhi put to use. It was a great insight so when thoughts of a long distance event were discussed 4250 miles to Delhi came up as a challenging yet achievable goal.

As hosts of the event and with support from other sponsors, Benham will be providing for all the needs of the cyclists throughout the ride. Benham are aiming to raise as much as they can, for Breakthrough Breast Cancer, no figure is being mentioned because the aim is to smash it. Throughout the run up to the event raffle tickets will be on sale with prizes being donated by BMW and MINI and many other generous supporters.

Benham BMW Wolverhampton this year are supporting Breakthrough Breast Cancer with an ambitious event to be staged at the BMW Centre on June 20th and 21st.

So why Wolverhampton to Delhi? Punjabi Wolves work with projects in Delhi and a few years ago Jim was invited to go to Delhi to see how some of his earlier charity efforts had been

To keep up to date with all the preparations for the event follow Benham on Twitter @ BenhamBMW and don’t forget to call in during the event to offer encouragement to the cyclists during this huge challenge.

Benham have teamed up with Jim Bertram and his intrepid team of cyclists as they attempt to ride from Wolverhampton to Delhi, on static bikes, in a 24 hour period. It’s a massive total mileage of 4250 and will mean that each of the 10 riders will need to average 18 mph throughout the whole 24 hour period. An epic challenge I think you will agree.

Jim is no stranger to long distance cycling and has previously completed other charity rides from Stoke to Glasgow and has recently ridden from Land’s End to John O’Groats. All great preparation for this huge challenge.

42

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

43

the Rotary Club of Wolverhampton Best Foot Forward Does your group need funds?

Is it hard to organise your own fundraiser?

We have a painless answer.

The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton is staging a major charity fund-raiser at Aldersley Leisure Village on 18th July called Best Foot Forward.

A community initiative devised by The Rotary Club of Wolverhanpton and supported by

You can tap into this event by getting your members to enrol for the event and then get supporters, family, colleagues and friends to sponsor them for the number of laps they complete – your group would retain 100% of the funds you raise.

No need to dream up an event – to find a venue – to do all the organising.

You don’t even have to produce your own sponsor forms.

It’s a ready-made event on a plate.

Just by taking part you will also help us release funds donated by community-minded Patrons for Acorns In the Black Country, Wolverhampton Samaritans and the Rotary Charitable Trust.

To be held on

Saturday 18th July, at Aldersley Leisure Village, from 8am until 8pm.

To find full information on the event, how to register and how to get your group’s Sponsor Forms, visit the event website at

www.wolverhamptonbestfootforward.com or call 07580 773876

rotary honours the memory of a past President Some years ago, the Rotary Club of Wolverhampton decided to set up an annual presentation to an apprentice at the Cosford RAF Museum Conservation Centre judged to be the Apprentice of the Year, as a memorial to Past President George Sidebotham.

George served in the RAF and was Captain of a Lancaster Bomber at the age of 19 during the War and spent a number of years in Stalag Luft III including the time of the Great Escape, after being shot down over Holland returning from a mission.

This year, sixty Rotarians and Guests from the Wolverhampton Club attended the APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR DINNER at Perton Park Golf Club on Thursday 5th March.

The Official Guests include Daren Priddy, Manager, and Mick Shepherd, Training Manager, from the Michael Beetham Conservation cCentre, RAF Cosford, together with the current apprentices, some of whom gave a most interesting and informative illustrated

44

talk on their recent visit to the National Air and Space Museum, Washington DC, USA, where their training included working on both aircraft and space vehicles.

Following this, the presentation was made of The George Sidebotham Lancaster Trophy by Peter Sidebotham, George’s son, to this year’s winner, 21 year old Ella Middleton whose specialist training at the centre has involved working mainly in sheet metal.

She received a further prize from enthusiast Rob Davis and a cheque from Rotary President Mike Boyce.

After the presentations, Chairman of the Clubs Youth and Community Services Committee, Brian Bailey announced a joint initiative with the Michael Beetham Centre aimed at assisting an apprentice visit to New Zealand, who are in the process of setting up their own Museum Conservation Centre, which will possibly take place later this year.

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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would be interested in marine antiquity. All and sundry came to the auction and it sold for £52,000.”

The gavel came down on it for a London company famed for its walking sticks.

John (left) and Denis Ridgway – infectious enthusiasm for antiques

Meet the boss (both of them)

The time travellers with a ‘Tardis’ of treasures They are purveyors of the past, modern-day time travellers, who, by walking just a few paces in their daily workplace, can span the signposts of history.

Meet Denis and John Ridgway – antique dealers extraordinaire – and owners of one of the most fascinating collectors’ emporiums in the Midlands.

The brothers have been in business together for more than 30 years and it shows. Joined at the hip with a disarming charm that is both knowledgeable and astute, it’s easy to understand why their two businesses continue to attract global interest; not to mention the odd television news crew or millionaire on a mission for something uniquely memorable.

“I never tire of it,” says Denis.

“You never know what a day can bring, what surprises from history will appear from the jewellery, fine porcelain, pictures, furniture or other collectable we have come in.”

He adds: “Here’s an example… Three years ago a lady in her 70s asked a young couple to bring in a walking stick to inquire if it was worth anything.

“It was a perfect example of a carved, whalebone and walrus tusk, marine collectable, walking stick, inlayed with giant tortoiseshell. Made around 1820, it looked like it had been carved yesterday. A fantastic example of a scrimshaw’s work, in fact it was so good my brother and I were convinced it was a fake.

“I didn’t tell the young couple that I thought it wasn’t the real thing, but said I was unsure of the value and would do research.”

John takes up the story: “We made some phone calls and came out with a value of 22,000 dollars for this stick from Boston [USA], which was more than likely carved by a sailor working on a whaling ship.

“We put it in the catalogue, emailed every museum across America and all our contacts who we knew

“It emerged the lady who owned the stick had married an American.

When he was in his 20s he showed her the stick and she thought nothing of it. It was wrapped in newspaper and put on the top of a wardrobe and there it stayed.

“It’s now listed as one of the most important pieces of American history ever found,” adds John.

A year later, says Denis, someone brought in seven silver spoons from the period of Henry VIII. They went to auction and sold for £36,000.

“It’s the handling of history, the research, the excitement of discovery… I love my work,” adds the former accountant, who confesses he got bored with figures.

The brothers’ businesses moved from High Town to its present premises in Mill Street in 1996.

The Old Mill Antiques Centre is open seven days a week, is home to 40 dealers who rent cabinets and floor space, holds auctions on the first Tuesday of every month and has a popular tea room that’s open every day 10am – 4pm.

Says John: “The experience here can be a day out in its own right.

There’s a vast array of things and often people who come to auctions make a day of it and eat at the tea room.”

Valuations are held each Wednesday between 10am and 4pm.

Humorous, engaging and every bit as theatrical as any specialist appearing on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow, the Denis and John double act quickly get to work to explain what makes them tick running the Old Mill Antiques Centre and sister business, Perry & Phillips Auctioneers (established 1835), in Bridgnorth’s Low Town.

Their enthusiasm is infectious as they carefully navigate the floor space of their neatly stacked treasure trove, the largest place of its kind in Shropshire.

46

The Aladdin’s Cave of treasures in the Old Mill Antiques Centre

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Write a Will!

Have you made a will?

Have you checked it lately?

Is it current and up-to-date?

Do you know where it is?

A will does not have to be complicated. What is important is for everyone to have a professionally drafted will. One that you can be certain will be legally valid when you die and that adequately reflects your wishes.

REMEMBER: If you cannot find your will, if it’s lost, damaged or simply so old that it may be invalid… there’s a chance it could fail on your death!

can appoint guardians to look after children should you or they die before the children reach 18.

Would you like your children taken into care when you die?

Did you know that a will is the only place that you can actually nominate guardians for your children?

No matter how simple your affairs may seem, or whatever age you are, making a will ensures that your wishes are set out clearly in one document so that on your death your assets will go to the relatives or loved ones that you want them to go to.

Don’t take that risk… write a new will

Would you like the local authority to force the sale of your home to pay for care costs?

If you or your children have young children it is vitally important that a will is made so that you or they

Your children lose their inheritance and you pay for care that others get for free!

Having a simple will is likely to meet the needs of many people, however sometimes people benefit from the more specialist advice, protection and planning we provide, in setting up trusts and saving inheritance tax.

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When Later Life Protection was created, we made a promise to provide friendly unbiased independent lifestyle planning advice which is accountable, completely transparent, fair and ethical.

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Windows 10 Microsoft’s new operating system should be released in June, although no date has been set.

It is believed that users with Windows 7 and 8.1 will be able to upgrade for free, certainly for the first year. Windows 8 users will need to update to 8.1 before being able to upgrade.

The operating system is a big improvement on the unpopular Windows 8,

particularly with a Start Menu that resembles ones that users are familiar with from previous operating systems, although it is very large in order to combine traditional Windows Programs with Apps.

There is no longer a switch from the Start screen with the tiles and the traditional desktop mode, and Internet Explorer is reputed to be finally disappearing, to be replaced by an improved browser.

It is hoped that Microsoft have learned from the mistake of trying to combine two operating systems and come up with something a lot more user friendly.

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51

Exciting changes at

of advantages as an independent builders’ merchants, we’re not restricted like national companies to using only one supplier. We can sit down with any manufacturer and work out a deal and then we can pass the savings on to our customers directly.”

“We’ve got the freedom to do things as we want to, which is really important to the business,” adds Barry.

Mark Charlton & Barry Smith

There are some big changes taking place at OCL this spring.

experience and knowledge in the building materials industry and this is essential to provide the highest level of customer service”.

The Kingswinford and Pensnettbased business has long been known for its landscaping services and fencing, but now the company is changing and expanding to become a fully-stocked general builders’ merchants too.

It’s not just new staff members that have joined the company though, there’s also a brand new piece of equipment.

There will still be all of the same services and products on offer at both of OCL’s sites but the new one-stop-shop builders’ merchants will be the main focus.

Procurement Manager, Barry Smith, explains: “We’re introducing new products all the time, soon we’ll have everything needed on-site to build a complete house from the foundations up.”

A great deal of investment has been made in the business, along with an intake of experienced new staff members who’ve been brought in to manage the new aspect of the company.

Mark Charlton, Branch Manager, says: “We’ve got a new 26 tonne crane vehicle that’s just joined our fleet of delivery vehicles - which already includes two Tipper Transits and a Hi-ab lorry - it will really improve our delivery scope.”

And there’s many delivery options available, to suit every client’s needs: “If you can’t collect, it’s no problem for us to deliver prices start at only £9.95.”

In fact all of OCL’s customers benefit from competitive pricing, as Mark explains: “There’s plenty

Each part of the company has its own specialist, to help and advise both domestic and trade clients alike.

“We’ve got a separate specialist for each department; landscaping, timber, bricks and blocks etc.

Excellent and efficient customer service is really important to us,” explains Mark.

OCL’s opening hours have been worked out with the customer’s needs in mind too: “We’re open from 7am until 5pm on weekdays during the winter months, and 7am until 6pm in the summer.

We also open on Saturdays between 8am and 4pm.”

“It makes a real difference to tradesmen to be able to get the materials they need early in the morning so that they can get on with the job they’re working on,” adds Barry.

“I joined the business recently from Jewson; I’ve worked in the trade for many years. Ashley Ibbs George, OCL’s Managing Director/ owner, brought me and Mark Charlton, also a long standing employee from Jewson, into the business to manage everything relating to the builders’ merchant aspect of OCL. Ashley recognises that we both have a wealth of 52

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Independently Better

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53

Try Safe Screen this Summer We all want to leave our windows and doors open during the summer months, but for most of us it’s just not practical.

Firstly there’s the worry of a beloved family pet escaping through the open space and secondly there’s the constant threat of invasion from pesky wasps and flies. As a result, we suffer the heat and swelter in hot, stuffy rooms.

But not for much longer, because Safe Screens have the perfect solution.

Owner, Tom, explains: “Our house cat used to keep escaping through our open conservatory window, so I made a wood and stainless steel mesh screen to cover the open space.”

“The screen kept the cat inside, allowed fresh air in and prevented flies from getting in, so I decided to make more screens for other windows and doors in our home.”

Seeing how brilliantly the screens worked, Tom decided to start his own business, Safe Screen: “Every screen we sell is handmade and designed to fit each of our customers’ individual windows or doors. They fit neatly, have extremely good optical clarity, are robust, waterproof and have good air flow.

They meet food hygiene regulations too, making them ideal for use in all kitchens - both domestic and commercial.”

“Our Solar Control meshes eliminate the need for dangerous fly sprays and keep your environment cool which is ideal for homes and offices. Our Pollen Screens help allergy sufferers by filtering birch, grass and stinging nettle pollen, whilst keeping insects out too.”

The screens fit all windows and doors; including sash, French and most types of Velux windows, as well as internal and external single, double and sliding doors. They are attached to the frames using hinges and turnbuckles, Velcro or magnetic strip.

They’re aesthetically pleasing and blend with your current frames - you can choose to have them in brown or white.

“We did a lot of research to find good quality components that look attractive and are, of course, strong enough to do the job,” adds Tom.

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54

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

In your garden

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Spring ahead

Garden Magic Ltd is now in its 11th year of trading and has grown considerably since starting life in 2005.

At that time they just marketed garden watering systems which they imported from Australia.

Then in 2007 they introduced garden lighting into the range; at the same time expanding their installation service. Large contracts soon followed including Lord Saville’s Estate in Yorkshire (now owned by a billionaire businessman) and Marks & Spencer’s headquarters building in London.

Marks & Spencer HQ building, London - part of the roof garden, Garden Magic supplied and installed the irrigation system

Recently there has been a trend to highlight garden features such as ornamental shrubs, trees, patios and paths. This is done with discrete low voltage lighting which is both easy and safe to install; and is more reliable than solar (although Garden Magic do have a good range of quality solar lights). Operating in winter months too, garden lighting provides a safe “lived-in” look whilst lighting paths and driveways.

Clever timers are available which switch garden lights on at dusk and off after a pre-set number of hours.

Most of Garden Magic’s customers install their watering and lighting systems themselves; the Garden Magic team being available to answer any queries. However for those who don’t have the time or inclination to “do it yourself” Garden Magic’s professional installation team is ready and waiting. Gordon Essex the systems designer and director is happy to visit with the head of the Installation Team, Phil Law, to measure up gardens and discuss options for lighting or watering.

Garden Magic’s website: www.waterbymagic.com is available 24/7. The firm are main dealers for the Luxform and Techmar lighting range, Hunter irrigation controllers and lawn sprays, as well as having a number of products manufactured exclusively for them.

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info@waterbymagic.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

57

The growing season has

aRRiVed

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

The rain at the beginning of May was very welcome, but not so the drying winds we had in the middle of the month.

Spray gooseberries against American mildew and Sawfly – they can strip a plant almost overnight. Cover fruit bushes with netting to stop the birds getting your fruit before you do. Spray fruit trees before flowers open and after fruit has set to keep bugs and diseases under control.

As plants come into growth these winds will soon scorch and burn the soft new growth. Make sure newly planted shrubs and herbaceous plants are kept moist at the base to help them to get settled.

Hanging baskets once planted can be put outside from June onwards unless the weather is particularly cold – watch out for a late frost. Water regularly – every day when the weather warms up and feed weekly.

Sow or plant salad crops fortnightly.

Don’t plant out tomato plants or cucumbers until it’s warmer at night – they soon go blue if they’re cold! Start them off inside making sure they have some heat at night.

Runner beans should be okay outside from June onwards, keep moist to give them a head start.

Watch out for slug damage on young herbaceous plants, and summer bedding such as Marigolds. ‘Slug Gone’ is a relatively new product that is made from wool, which you put round the base of plants and once dampened its small fibres act as an irritant to slugs.

Summer bedding can be planted outside now. Bedding begonias and petunias seem to be popular again this year. Plant in groups for a colourful display.

Hoe borders frequently, preferably on a nice sunny day and any weeds that are beginning to get established will wilt and die off quickly; regular hoeing will also allow air into the top layer of soil and encourage root growth.

Don’t forget the lawn, do a light cut first, gradually reducing the mower height over several cuts. Weeds and moss can be treated with products such as Scotts ‘Evergreen Complete’ which will fertilize the lawn as well as killing weeds and moss. MO Bacter, the organic moss treatment and fertilizer, can be applied every 3 months from March to September.

OPEN DAILY

Tel 01902 700209 Lealans own brand compost – 80 litre bags, only £12.69 for 3 bags Hanging Baskets now being accepted for summer refilling.

Huge range of top quality shrubs, trees, roses, alpines and herbaceous plants always in stock

Lealans Garden Centre Bridgnorth Road, Shipley, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7EZ www.lealansgardencentre.co.uk

58

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Create lush gardens in an instant with mature hedging

By Steve Tonks, General Manager at Boningale Garden Creations

Most homeowners need some kind of secure decorative element around their boundary partition, but have you considered hedging - choosing green over stone, fencing or wood can create a beautiful natural garden.

Using the right kind of hedging can enhance a garden, and provide a stunning natural backdrop that offers privacy, security and excellent protection from the elements.

Natural hedging suits properties of all ages – it can create a warm natural atmosphere in a country garden, soften the surroundings of a city garden and add structured clean lines to a modern garden.

Plus, what many people don’t realise is that you can buy hedging in all growth forms, from 1 year old up to fully mature 8ft hedges in a choice of varieties according to your garden aspect and soil condition, including indigenous, exotic, flowering, ever-green and fruit bearing.

conifer hedge with a 6ft Hornbeam deciduous hedge. The result is a much thinner and easy- tomanage hedge, which is aesthetically pleasing with its beautifully veined green and yellow leaves.

For further information and advice on choosing a lush green boundary partition or a privacy enhancing decorative hedge, please visit www.boningale-garden-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 can be assured of expert advice every step of the way.

The advantage with the fully grown option is there is no need to wait ten or more years for it to mature – it’s rare that you can achieve such instant results in gardening.

We’ve used fully-grown hedging on a number of garden designs; one of the most dramatic transformations was when we replaced an out-of-control 8ft tall

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59

Sizzling Summer Food at

R J Hipkiss & Sons Butchers

We believe in providing our customers with the very best quality locally sourced beef, lamb, pork and English poultry.

All our meat can be traced back to its origin. of Also available an extensive range r in store cooked meats, sliced to you e and preference, handmade pastry’s, pat ally salads for all occasions and all loc Superb! sourced from the best suppliers…

and baps Hot sandwiches until close. available 8am – levels of Providing the best and advice. customer service

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Open: Monday to Saturday 7.30am to 6.00pm, Sunday 8am to 4pm Tel: 01902 745956 wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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A superb selection of marinates, oils and glazes. Choose any flavour you like and have it on anything you wa nt.

Tried and tested flavours plus new arrivals including Jim Beam Bourbo n sauce and new marinates that are bursting with high impact flavours. uding stir-frys and Gluten Free products available incl much be used on anything! sausages, new oils that can pretty ntia l) wer e wel l kno wn (an d late ly Dai sy Fres h and Esse deli cate sse n. “Fo r 37 yea rs, Dai sy Free zer and ts mea lity lly sou rced qua for sup plyi ng a ran ge of loca food dep artm ent hav e ard and the team at his fres h it is fan tast ic to see how Rich r stor e in Com pto n.

Spa don and Mal colm Cru mps bec ome the new feat ure of gor y yea rs - his exp erie nce and ent man age r for dai sy for man Rich ard was the mea t dep artm s tha t the sec tion enjo yed . t of the rea son for the suc ces eye for qua lity was a maj or par deta il by his team , now ed with care and atte ntio n to par pre , rced sou lly loca ts, Loc al mea dai sy trad ition �. Mik e Boy ce a fab ulou s con tinu atio n of the incl udin g my son Jas on, - its

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

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Knights of Middle england star at Kinver Country Fayre Top UK jousting display team, The Knights of Middle England, will be topping the bill on Sunday 21st June at Kinver Country Fayre.

The team is well known for its action-packed displays showcasing superb horsemanship, which has featured in numerous TV shows and films such as Merlin and The Da Vinci Code.

“We are particularly proud to be welcoming the Knights to the Fayre.” said Brian Ashmead, one of the organisers.

“They really do put on an amazing show and as Kinver is their only appearance in the Midlands this year,

we feel particularly privileged.”

Of course visitors can expect a wide range of other entertainment including live music, dance, falconry, football, rugby, medieval minstrel Wynndebagge and the popular fun dog show – not to mention Mad Dominic the stilt walker.

Children will find plenty to occupy them with donkey rides, bouncy castles, face painting, traditional games and fun challenges with Kinver Scouts. Then there are shire horses, Icelandic horses and feathered friends from Owls on the Prowl.

There’s food to suit every taste from a host of catering stalls, local ale in the beer tent and a taste of summer at the Pimms stall. Tea and homemade cakes await those taking a well-earned rest from browsing the stalls.

Stalls this year are offering an even wider range of goods, crafts, arts, jewellery, decorative items, candles, plants, pottery, woodwork, toys, clothing, items for gardeners and animal lovers – not to mention the delicious produce in the fine food tent.

Specialist stalls are selling country liqueurs, wines, preserves, garlic, chilli’s, scotch eggs, pies and puddings - to name but a few.

Traditional entertainment, music. dance, family fun and fine food

The event kicks off at 11am with a parade through the High Street. Find out more about this traditional family day out at www.kinvercountryfayre.com 62

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk Halfpenny Green Vineyards, Tom Lane, Bobbington, South Staffordshire DY7 5EP Special Gourmet dinner events monthly, Friday 12th June & Friday 10th July

Enjoy traditional High Tea in style Perfect as a gift or to enjoy yourself

Superb restaurant offering an exquisite selection of food and drink including daily specials

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9.30AM – 5.00PM

&

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Tel: or Email: enquiries@perton-bridgnorth-travel.com Web: www.perton-bridgnorth-travel.com

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

WWW.PERTON-BRIDGNORTH-TRAVEL.COM

Tel: 01384 221122 Email: sales@halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk

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Corbelli’s LITTLE ITALY DELI

EstaBLIshED 1965

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

www.littleitalydeli.co.uk Sole distributor for Armani Water in the UK and Ireland.

43 LoWEr LIchfIELD STrEET, WILLEnhALL WV13 1QQ Easy accEss from thE motorway

✁ Spend £25

receive a frEE bottle of Wine when you present this coupon

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Hundreds of authentic Italian Wines · Cheeses Olives · Pastas Parma Ham Coffees · Breads

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FRESH, AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE

QUALITY AT WHOLESALE PRICE

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Multi-Award-Winning Fish and Chips

One visit and you’ll be hooked.

The best fish and chips in the Black Country; 3,000 customers a week can’t be wrong.

TASTY FOOD WORTH THE TRAVEL!

Fresh fish from sustainable waters Top quality fresh ingredients delivered daily Oil purifying equipment in daily use Fast and friendly service Large orders catered for (Factories, Offices, Church Functions, etc) Battered or plain chips available

FREE BAG OF REGULAR CHIPS*

with Kebabs, regular size Fish and Pies.

Simply present this voucher in May and June 2015. Ref: WW *offer valid against a maximum of 2 portions per voucher, no photocopies

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

65

Cosford FOOD

FESTIVAL 25th-26th July 2015, 10am - 5pm

This summer, food lovers from across the Midlands are expected to descend on the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford for the annual Cosford Food Festival, with some of the region’s finest artisan produce, tastiest treats and best cooked dishes all on offer.

Taking place on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th July from 10am until 5pm, this food festival with a twist, will take place outdoors with the giant Hercules aircraft acting as a backdrop for the bustling food market.

Following on from the success of the first two festivals which have seen over 15,000 people attend, around 80 exhibitors from across Shropshire, Staffordshire and the West Midlands will be tempting visitors with a wide range of exquisite local, fresh and handmade produce not available from your average supermarket store. With everything from organic produce to handmade indulgences and thirst-quenching beverages on offer, there is sure to be something to suit everyone’s taste buds.

Visitors will learn fascinating techniques and tips from the experts through live talks and cooking demonstrations courtesy

of the Wot’s Cooking team. Plus, visitors can sit back and enjoy live music, sample some of the culinary delights available and take part in some of the children’s food and craft activities. With plenty of entertainment for the entire family taking place over the weekend, it is sure to be a great day out.

Visitors to the food festival will also have access to the RAF Museum which is home to over 70 historic aircraft including the world’s oldest Spitfire and the mighty Vulcan bomber to name but a few.

Win Three Family Tickets to the Cosford Food Festival This month we have teamed up with the RAF Museum Cosford to give three lucky readers the chance to win family passes to the upcoming food festival.

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

Which aircraft will be acting as a backdrop during the food festival?

Email your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk or on a postcard to 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY. Entries to be received by Friday 10th July 2015.

Competition Terms & Conditions: To enter you must be aged 18 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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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

25-26 July 2 2015 Enjoy the finest artisan food and drink from over 70 local producers at this unique venue Live music and entertainment Learn from top chefs during our cooking demonstrations Foodie fun for all the family

Save time and beat the queues by purchasing your ticket in advance. www.rafmuseum.org/cosford

Free park and ride from Cosford Train Station

Prices £5.00 Adult £4.00 Senior Citizen £2.00 Child (5 – 15 years) £12.00 Family (2 adults / up to 4 children) Children under 5 Free

Tel: 01902 376 200 www.rafmuseum.org/cosford Cosford, Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 8UP

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Eating Out and Entertainment

*over a 2 month period

Promote your venue to over 50,000* readers with Wolverhampton West magazine. For further details contact Gisella on: 01902 744217

Fathers Day Sunday 21st June 2015

Treat dad to a Fathers Day he won’t forget at Molineux Stadium.

Enjoy pitch side views from The Hayward Suite or Sir Jack’s Restaurant while you dine, a special gift for Dad of a framed family photo and a stadium tour are also included.

Hayward Suite Carvery: £23.50 per person Sir Jacks Restaurant: £25.50 per person 0871 222 2220 candb@wolves.co.uk corporatewolves.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

with master chef Mario and his enthusiastic team

Serving Fine Italian and English Cuisine including Traditional Black Country favourites

Bully’s MiDweek hat-trick!

3 course meal for only £11.95 per person Choice menu of both Italian and English food or

20% OFF A La Carte menu Now available Tuesday to Thursday evenings

“Steve Bull invites you to come along and sample the delights of his delightful restaurant overlooking the Green in Tettenhall”

Father’s Day sunDay June 21st Sunday Lunch still from only £6.95 (no price increase) Bookings essential

to avoid disappointment please book:

situated at:

t. 01902 756052 e. reservations@bravaccios.co.uk www.bravaccios.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

4a upper Green, tettenhall wV6 8QQ ample Free Parking 69

Halfpenny Green Vineyards To see the fruit of my careful cogitation die on the vine is never pleasant, but especially when I’m at Halfpenny Green Vineyards, where fine fruit and even finer wine is abundant everyday. And today is no ordinary day, today – or more specifically tonight – is the vineyard’s showcase monthly attraction, ‘Gourmet Evening’: a culinary soiree where local cognoscenti gather at the Tom Lane site, just outside Bobbington, to partake in a celebration that is at the nexus of what the vineyard is best known for, food and drink.

Rob Taylor is wined and dined at Halfpenny Green Vineyards on the illustrious Gourmet Evening “I’ll have the duck,” I say, “that’s if it’s still on the menu?” The waitress smiles politely. “This is Gourmet Night, after all,” I volunteer, doing my best to sell a joke that I’ve since decided is far too obscure to be considered appropriate pre-meal chit-chat with anyone not wellversed in Fawlty Towers lore. “No, everything on the menu tonight is still available, sir,” she says, obliviously.

I really should get out more.

Halfpenny Green has been owned and run by the Vickers family ever since farmer Martin planted his first vine some 30 years ago. My partner Nicola and I are warmly received inside the large atrial hub by husband and wife team, Clive and Lisa Vickers. Ever the genial host – and quite the acclaimed winemaker – Clive offers us and his other guests a tasting of today’s freshly fermented crop, before Lisa – who manages the restaurant, shop, deli and tea room – takes us through into the restaurant.

Snugly secluded beside the fireside, I’m struck by the intimacy of the room. Elegantly decorated with soft

fabrics, moodily lit and chock-full of returning regulars the sense of occasion is not lost on us. Primed and ready we await what new head chef Matt has in store. But first, wine.

Well, it’d be rude not to, wouldn’t it?

What better, I think, than some more of the delicious white wine, Long Acre, that I sampled earlier; if it’s good enough to be sold in Marks & Spencer, then it’s more than good enough for me. It really brings new meaning to the phrase, “house wine”, I exclaim to my long-suffering partner. She sighs.

I then quote W.B Yeats: ‘Wine comes in at the mouth and love comes in at the eye.’ She weeps, with despair, and then snaps, “Stop your whining and drink your wine!”

The arrival of some locally sourced (a theme of the entire evening) bread punctuates the moment. Replete with a knob of butter, it’s yum. With only the merest moment of delay the friendly and competent waiting staff – now knowingly ignoring my silly Basil Fawlty quotes like: “It’s a pleasure to meet people who appreciate the boudoir of the grape” – serve the starters; my duck – oh yes! – and Nicola’s salmon. The ‘Duck Fillet’ is served on a carrot and coriander frittata with damson sauce. It is a symphony of colour, packed to the gunwales with flavour and blessed with a fine cut of succulent game.

Nicola’s ‘Lemon Vodka Cured Salmon’, I am told, is stuffed to the gills with tasty character; “a deliciously piquant aspic,” she says. Since I don’t know what this actually means, I’ll continue.

Next up: a delicately nuanced take on ‘Leek and Potato Soup’, which

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

is petitely proportioned and quite a surprise. Attention to detail is clearly a high priority at Halfpenny Green; delicately laid tables, impeccable service and artistically presented food all bear witness to this. Now for more wine; this time sparkling rosé. It’s delicious, especially when complementing our main courses of ‘Honey Thai Pork Shoulder’, with leek-wrapped green beans, ginger and saffron carrots with a redcurrant jus. The meat is tasty, tender and the dish itself is telltale of a capable and well-oiled kitchen staff. This is especially impressive when Lisa informs us that a lot of the team are new and working their very first Gourmet Evening.

The vegetables are cooked to perfection: zingy, fresh and crunchy.

We both enjoy every morsel and now eagerly await dessert.

and chocolates, which is a nice touch and goes someway to satisfy Nicola’s considerable sweet tooth.

Now I know what you’re thinking: “how do I get a table before they all get booked up next mont?” Firstly you’ll need to know the next few dates: 12th June; 10th July. And secondly: don’t panic, even if you can’t beat the rush to get in next

month, Halfpenny Green is about to launch a new daytime menu, which offers a cornucopia of goodies on a daily basis - as does the vineyards’ very own “Vintage High Tea (24 hours’ notice required), from £15.50 per person”. So it’s easy to sample the vineyards’ culinary wares.

There’s really no place better to un-wine-d than at Halfpenny Green.

For me: a ‘Trio of Mini Tarts’ – apple, pear and treacle, served with fresh egg custard and mixed berries; for Nicola, ‘Chocolate Mousse’, set on a bed of sliced strawberries and roasted nuts. The two dishes are a delightful duo, which prove to be a veritable feast of sugary goodness. To end, there’s coffee

Halfpenny Green Vineyards, Tom Lane, Bobbington, South Staffordshire DY7 5EP Tel: 01384 221122 www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant Established 1989

Air conditioned

Cuisine of Bengal

Fully licensed



FOOD HYGIENE RATING SCHEME 2011

Rafique Miah welcomes you to the longest established Indian Restaurant in Wombourne Village, serving sumptuous Bangladeshi Cuisine for over 25 years.

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

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

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

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

High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DN

facebook.com/wombourne.tandoori

www.wombournetandoori.com

ENJOY A SUNDAY CARVERY AT THE WERGS Come and spend a relaxing sunday afternoon with us SERvED fROm 12pm – 4pm

ONE COURSE: £11.95 TWO COURSE: £14.95 THREE COURSE: £17.95 CHILDREN UNDER 12 (ONE COURSE): £6.95 Also serving Breakfast, morning Coffee, Lunches and Afternoon Teas

2 foR £12 Mon to sAt lunChtiMEs 12pM – 3pM Bookings ADVisABlE Bookings now BEing tAkEn foR fAthER’s DAY sunDAY 21st JunE 2015 3 COURSE LUNCH ADULTS £19.95 CHILDREN UNDER 12 £11.95 the wergs

Keepers Lane, Tettenhall Wolverhampton West midlands Wv6 8UA e info@wergsgolfclub.com

www.wergsgolfclub.com

72

fOR fURTHER INfORmATION ON GOLf, DINING OR fUNCTIONS OR TO mAKE A

BOOKING pLEASE CALL

01902 742 225 wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Open from 5.30pm - Midnight (7days a week)

Indian Cuisine The Kings Repose have been awarded a 5 star award from rate my place for Kitchen Hygiene.

Misbah the master chef can cook anything to suit customers requirements.

All of the superb mouthwatering dishes being freshly prepared at the time of ordering, using only the finest produce.

Described by many customers as a culinary experience of a lifetime.

New Road Featherstone Nr. Wolverhampton WV10 7NW

01902 307846 01902 738299

Eat in or take away

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

JOIN US FOR A DELICIOUS MEAL

ON FATHER'S DAY 21ST JUNE 2015 Full Normal Menu and Sunday Lunch from 12pm until 10pm

NEW STEAK NIGHT

every Thursday Receive a FREE bottle of wine with every two Steaks ordered!

FULL NORMAL MENU SERVED 7 DAYS A WEEK, 12 NOON UNTIL 10PM.

THE SHREWSBURY ARMS HAS A BEER GARDEN, LIVE MUSIC ON FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHTS, FISH & FIZZ FRIDAYS, GIFT VOUCHERS, SMALL SEMI-PRIVATE EVENTS AND MORE.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

73

Historic charisma, good honest food and a

sprinkling of magic

It’s a place that attracts all ages – and plenty of them – drinkers, diners and live music-lovers. The Shrewsbury Arms pulls off this remarkable fusion across the generations seamlessly. John Nash books a table in search of this magical symmetry.

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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

Think friendly, think relaxed, think gold standard service, think pub. Now combine this warm, slightly intoxicating hospitality with some serious cooking, tasteful surroundings and there you have it – the elixir of life in a glorious potent amalgam of pleasure.

Quite how the family-run Shrewsbury Arms has pulled off this alchemy so successfully puzzles me, but the dining experience at this lovely, old timber-framed building with its converted skittle alley, is certainly one I’m planning to repeat.

The building, described as “once an old spit and sawdust” pub, sits opposite the beautiful St Mary Magdalene Church on the edge of Albrighton, near Wolverhampton. Its choice setting and, quite apart from the food, an inviting beer garden is another reason to return.

I wanted the evening to be special – my loyal friend Gill had recently helped me in a marathon hall, stairs and landing decorating escapade – and she welldeserved a gastronomic treat. Eating out somewhere new when you wish to impress is always a lottery, but the outing did not disappoint, evolving into one of those rare, perfect events that linger in the memory.

Maybe it’s the historical charisma, the live music seeping unobtrusively into the dining area, the ambiance, an infectiously happy party of 30 or so marking a relative’s 80th birthday, or the attentive but not invasive waitresses busying themselves around the covers that defines this place.

And perhaps it could be the friendly bar staff, who on a busy Friday night still had time for small talk as the drinks were being served. It’s hard to say, but the Shrewsbury Arms’ crowning glory has to be its good, honest food and an indefinable sprinkling of magic.

The menu is comprehensive but not extensive, a good sign I believe as it shows confidence in the chef Andy Eaton’s creations. A cheeky chappie with a stage presence, he is passionate about serving up “a taste buds experience” even when a huge party of diners could seriously impact on kitchen service. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

I noted those in the celebration party were served almost simultaneously with a military efficiency.

For starters I plumped for the breaded Brie (£4.75), served with cranberry compote and a selection of baby leaves.

The Brie was piping hot, the bread crumbs crisp and cranberries not over-stewed, providing the perfect texture and slightly tart accompaniment for the none-too-over-ripe French cheese.

Presentation on a trendy slate was a nice touch.

My friend went for the breaded whitebait (£5.50) complemented with a watercress salad and a lemon and chive mayo. Verdict: Scrumptious.

For mains my choice was easy. I’m a lover of seafood and the prospect of tucking into monkfish (£17.95), wrapped in Parma ham, easily tempted me. Stuffed with pine nuts and spinach, this sweet, white, naturally meaty fish tail section was cooked splendidly.

It’s a fish that will stand some strong flavours as bedfellows, but the simplicity of the stuffing in the steaks readily expose the taste. Served with French beans and sautéed potatoes, I could have lingered much longer with this dish.

Gill settled for slow-cooked lamb shank (£15.95) with garlic and rosemary confit cherry tomatoes on a bed of braised red cabbage. Offered with sweet potato mash and a minted jus it was not difficult for her to clear the platter. Verdict: “That was yummy.”

The meal was finished with a peach melba sundae, rammed with fruit and coulis ice cream, and my friend’s favourite Cheshire farm dairy Cointreauinfused and vanilla ice cream (both £5.25).

Washed down with a bottle of crispy Pinot Grigio (£16.50) we finally departed gastronomically satisfied but wanting much more of this experience.

To make a reservation call 01902 373003 or email: theshrewsburyarms@gmail.com 70 High Street, Albrighton, Wolverhampton WV& 3LA www.theshrewsburyarms.com 75

royal

Flush Our editor Geoff Hall follows in the footsteps of royalty to bring you an inside look at the King’s Repose, Featherstone.

The Kings Repose, New Road, Featherstone, Wolverhampton WV10 7NW

To book a table please call 01902 307846 or 01902 738299 76

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

It’s funny how the brain works.

That tangled electro-chemical web is made up of billions of neurons, all bouncing messages around for purposes that are largely of no consequence whatsoever to mankind. Here is a case in point. It’s nothing more than a causal connection that I made just now, after thinking back to last night’s fine dining with friends at the King’s Repose Indian restaurant in Featherstone: There I was just inside the entrance, chatting and being a model paradigm of wit and joviality, when I saw the Bombay Mix on the table. My dining companions - partner Gisella; friends, Brian and Sam Saunders - all remarked upon how nice it was to see the spicy mix of dried peanuts, chickpeas, curry leaves, corn, rice, lentils and onion. So often conspicuous by its absence in other curry houses, plainly the King’s Repose had scored highly already.

But more specifically, that humble bowl of goodies has just sparked a flashback to a story from two years ago relating to The Queen and her fury after discovering that royal protection officers had been helping themselves to her Bombay Mix and nuts in Buckingham Palace.

A quick Google tells us that: ‘Palace officials sent a memo to royal protection officers warning them to “keep their sticky fingers out”; after Her Majesty noticed the snacks

were disappearing. The Queen became so incensed that she even began marking the bowls to check if the levels were dropping.’

The fact that I should remember the story when reviewing the appropriately regal King’s Repose made me smile - but not as much as our party did last night, however. Much merriment began with chatting and the aforementioned nibbles at the bar/ lounge space downstairs, before continuing up into the restaurant above. The King’s Repose is very olde worlde inside, not at all what you’d expect from the usual Indian restaurant; so often they can be modern to the point of being soulless, but not here. Here there are exposed beams, portraits of Charles II and Oliver Cromwell on the walls, antique swords trussed to the converted-barn walls and all manner of paraphernalia peculiar to a theme loosely connected to the buildings history, which is reputedly said to be on the site of one of Charles II’s many hiding places.

Once upstairs and seated we take full advantage of our friends’ intimate knowledge of the restaurant, which has been located on New Road, amid a delightfully pastoral idyll consisting of mature trees and manicured lawns, for more years than either of them can remember. Eating at the restaurant on an almost weekly basis, they cite the excellent valuefor-money food, friendly staff and the restaurant’s unique atmosphere as the main attractions. Speaking of eating, it’s time to get to it: chop, chop, as the chef said to the waiter.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

We start, as is traditional, with a poppadom and mint sauce. We order our starters from a menu bursting with temptingly tantalising treats.

Gisella plumps for the ‘Murgh Tikka’ (£3.50) – boneless chicken, marinated in mild sauce, cooked in tandoor – whereas I go for ‘Lai Bagun’ (£3.95) – Beef, tomato filled with spiced chicken chat, cooked tandoori style and served with salad. Both dishes arrive quickly and are piping hot, having been delivered by personable waiting staff. Special mention goes to the fine quality of the beef, which is both tender and tasty, but each dish is very well received. Attention to detail when presenting food is clearly a high priority at King’s Repose.

Now to the mains: King’s Repose Chicken Tikka Vindaloo (£8.95) from the ‘Old Favourites’ section of the menu and, from the ‘House Specialities’ board, ‘Chamura Bengali’ (£17.95), which consists of king prawns and breast of chicken in a signature sauce. Gisella polishes off every morsel of her vindaloo and is full of praise for what she calls “an expertly-judged juxtaposition of flavours; familiar yet fresh; spicy but not to the detriment of the overall dish.” In short, it’s delicious.

My choice leaves my taste buds overwhelmed with joy; the dish explodes with rich textures and rewards the sophisticated palate. The prawns are crisp and well-cooked; the sauce is exquisite. The white wine we have on the table complements it well. And so to dessert - Mangobased Kulfi Indian Ice Cream (£2.50) - which we elect to share. It’s a sweet and successful way to end.

And now, with the sheer volume of restaurant reviews that I have under my belt causing my brain to flag, I must try to end anew this restaurant review. How about a word of advice I wonder? Yes that’s it: be sure to book your table in advance, dear reader, as the restaurant can get extremely busy, especially at weekends.

It’s a no-brainer, really.

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Trysull Church Flower Festival 12th - 15th June

Unisex salon

Hair Colour · Design Cut · Styling Hair Extensions

The theme for our biennial flower festival this year is “A Moment in Time.”

The flower arrangements aim to depict specific moments in time; some have a profound impact on the world we live in, while others shape our lives and experiences on a simpler level.

Let the beauty of the floral displays set in our historic village church tell the story and we hope your visit to our flower festival will become a memorable “Moment in Time” for you.

Refreshments will be available at Trysull vicarage on Saturday and Sunday where

there will be a convivial gathering. Village stalls will include plants, CDs, DVDs, produce, tombola, bric-brac and raffle.

Trysull Church, WV5 7HR, toilets are at the vicarage and car parking nearby.

Church open on Friday, Saturday and Monday 10am - 5pm; Sunday 11am - 5.30pm.

For more information please contact Fiona Bowers 01902 895954.

May & June Mid-Week Offer Wash n blow dry, colour and cut for only £30 available Wednesday and Thursdays

Clipper Hair Cuts from £5 Re-Style Cuts from £10 Colours from £20 To book an appointment please call 01902 765975 1a Brantley Avenue, Finchfield, Wolverhampton WV3 9AP

Mercure Albrighton Hall Hotel and Spa

Weddings at Albrighton Hall EXCITING NEWS FOR ALL BRIDES AND GROOMS TO BE… Albrighton Hall has just completed a stunning refurbishment of the Albrighton Suite, the most popular wedding room with gold ornate balustrade, state of the art lighting and elegant granite bar. Two of the finest bedrooms in the hotel have been fully redecorating with a classic but contemporary twist, and more refurbishment of the grounds and Spa are also planned over the next few months, so very exciting times ahead, the perfect time to book your complimentary showround.

For more information on the hotel, please call 01939 291000, email h6629@accor.com or visit www.mercureshrewsbury.co.uk

Mercure Albrighton Hall Hotel & Spa, Ellesmere Road, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY4 3AG Please follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest to keep up to date with what’s going on 78

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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essential summer style: Essential Summer Style 1

The Pixie Crop Made famous in 1966 by Twiggy, the ‘elfin crop’ became an instant hit, establishing itself as an iconic look in the hair world. It’s a style that’s been worn by some of the world’s most beautiful women; Kate Moss, Halle Berry and Anne Hathaway, to name a few, and it’s guaranteed front page headlines for all of them.

It’s an attention-grabbing style that could be perfect for you; Nick explains the look: “If you’re dreaming of a new look this summer and are looking to make a dramatic statement, then go for a personalised pixie style.

There’s endless options and we can tailor the look to enhance your features, suit your face shape and fit in with your lifestyle.”

When cut by a skilled stylist the pixie style is an incredibly versatile style: “You can wear your hair smooth and sleek for a professional look, ultra texturised for off-duty style or finished with volume and curl for full-on red carpet glamour.”

“The key to a perfect pixie this season is all about using powerful colouring techniques to ensure that the cut stays feminine and the face is framed with lighter and brighter layers of colour to add a natural sun-kissed feel.’’

At this time of year there’s plenty to look forward to; whether that’s jetting off to a sun-soaked beach abroad, taking a trip somewhere closer to home or attending a special occasion with family and friends.

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That’s why there’s no better time to update your look with a fabulous new hairstyle that’ll be perfect for everything you’ve got planned.

Knowing where to start isn’t easy though, you need professional advice to get it right, that’s why we’ve teamed up with the experts at Royston Blythe Group who have recently won the title of Midlands Hairdresser of The Year, so that we can bring you the top three essential styles you should be considering this season.

Essential Summer Style 2

The Tousled Bob The tousled bob has been resurrected this season and Jessica Alba is just one of the A-listers who’ve jumped on the trend. Her above-the-shoulder bob has real appeal and is perfect for understated daytime glamour.

“It works for yummy mummies on the school run as much as celebrity A-listers gracing the red carpet.

This season’s version of the bob combines loose, tousled waves that are perfectly polished with a

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

dried-in-the-breeze style, finished with an ecaille colour technique.”

Ecaille (meaning Tortoiseshell in French) is the name for a new colouring technique that has evolved from the ombre trend that’s been around for the last few seasons.

“It’s a more sophisticated and subtle version of ombre and is perfect for creating rich, warm, sun-kissed looking hair. Using smooth caramel

tones we create a slightly richer and darker version of a natural hair colour before pairing it with golden highlights to add interest.”

“The perfect ecaille bob mimics the natural bleaching effect caused by exposure to the sun and is healthy and shiny looking, that’s why it’s perfect for summer.”

add honey, cream and beige tones to lighten and brighten hair, making it beach-ready in no time. Babylights, which are incredibly fine highlights, are the perfect way to achieve a totally natural result. They flatter all skin tones and will leave hair looking beautifully sun-kissed.”

Essential Summer Style 3

The Summer Blow-out There’s no beating big, beautiful, sexy long hair. No matter what the season it’s guaranteed to get you looking gorgeous and always gets you noticed.

“During the summer months textures should be soft and styles loose, feminine and unstructured. At this time of year it’s more important than ever to keep long hair in excellent condition by using deep conditioning masks that will nourish and revitalise long locks and serve to protect from the damage caused by heat, chlorine and salt water.”

Long hair looks beautiful when it’s coloured with natural-looking highlights: “Our colour experts will www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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

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Lastly one trend that encapsulates the feeling of summer perfectly is the floral print, but if you want an investment piece stick with a print with a black base which you then can carry through to autumn.

This year, catwalks were ablaze with a sizzling selection of new styles and shapes. The bucket, cross-body and satchel bag are all still prevalent but we are also seeing far more tiny micro bags in bright colours.

With an expanding brand portfolio including Armani Jeans, Vivienne Westwood, Versace Jeans, Marc Jacobs and Michael Kors there’s something for everyone to get excited about at Diffusion.

There also seems to be a return to classic white or black but if you want to be ahead of the trend black and white gingham print will be huge across the high street this summer.

Visit Diffusion in Wolverhampton, Merry Hill Centre, Telford or Walsall, or online at diffusiononline.co.uk

Michael Kors £315

Spring/Summer is here again and while we are all looking to update our current wardrobes, one of the easiest ways to make a statement or renew an outfit is to add new accessories.

Versace Jeans £130

Vivienne Westwood £279

Michael Kors £240

Michael Kors £170

g a B y v n E

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Ted Baker £119

Armani Jeans £125

Ted Baker £169

Armani Jeans £165

Armani Jeans £115

Lulu Guinness £245

Armani Jeans £95

by Helen Taylor

Explained:

The science behind skin care Image courtesy of New Look Beauty

smooth look and helps it to maintain moisture - which is vital for youthful looking skin. It’s a naturally occurring carbohydrate in the body, but levels diminish with age, especially after you reach 40.

Ceramides help in the fight for youthful looking skin thanks to their ability to prevent water loss and promote skin-cell renewal. They’re commonly used in moisturisers as they effectively re-hydrate dry skin.

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are naturally occurring acids, commonly found in citrus fruits (citric acid), dairy products (lactic acid) and sugar (glycolic acid). They work to aid the skin’s natural exfoliation process by loosening dead surface cells. When applied in the form of cream to your face, AHAs reduce fine lines and unclog pores.

Glycolics work similarly to AHAs - they speed up the process the skin goes through to shed dead outer cells, which in turn reveals new, smoother skin cells Collagen is found naturally in the skin, the protein maintains the skin’s elasticity and keeps it looking plump. Over the years though, the body’s production of collagen drops dramatically.

Used in many anti-ageing creams, collegan is found to be a very effective water-binding ingredient.

How many times have you been completely baffled by some scientific sounding jargon when you’ve gone to buy a new anti-ageing cream? Unless you were top of the class in chemistry, you probably don’t know your AHAs from your Ceramides.

So that’s why we’ve compiled our guide to the most common ingredients you’ll come across today.

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radicals which our skin is exposed to on a day-to-day basis. Free radicals - or oxidants - are unstable molecules which are caused by environmental factors like smoke, pollution and UV rays. Free radicals are responsible for causing those annoying visible signs of ageing like lines and wrinkles. Vitamin E, Vitamin C and green tea are some of the most common antioxidants.

Once you’ve read our skincare glossary you’ll not only understand the terminology, but you’ll be able to find the best cream for your skin’s needs as well.

Vitamin E has great moisturising properties and makes skin soft and smooth, whereas Vitamin C helps to diminish the look of brown age spots and hyper pigmentation, green tea is a strong antioxidant and a staple ingredient in most anti-ageing products.

Antioxidants serve to protect skin from those damaging free

Hyaluronic acid, when applied topically, gives the skin a fresh,

Retinoids are derived from Vitamin A. They have been found to help to renew the skin and stimulate collagen production, minimise the appearance of wrinkles and bolster the skin’s thickness and elasticity; which makes them a popular ingredient in anti-ageing creams.

Growth factors are used in antiageing creams to help to build collagen and diminish lines and wrinkles, whilst softening the skin.

Their natural function in the body is to control cell growth in different areas.

Hydroquinone is useful in suppressing pigment producing enzymes in the skin, thus fighting age spots. It’s therefore, often recommended by experts to lighten those dark spots on the skin.

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Salon 27 are a unisex salon and have a monthly offer throughout the year, even one for the kids!

June offer

£10 off

A COLOUR SERVICE

or £5 off A CUT & FINISH

Opening times:

July offer

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Half price colour every Thursday Monday 9am – 5pm with selected Wednesday 9am – 7pm stylists. Kids cut offer every Thursday 11am – 8pm Monday 3pmFriday 9am – 6pm 5pm or Friday Saturday 8.30am to 4.30pm & Saturday www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Closed Tuesday and Sunday with Hannah.

Volume, Smooth, Texture, Shine, Fixing Hair Sprays

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

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Beauty is

in the detail Our latest Lumina therapy offers treatment for:

• hair removal • thread veins and rosacea • acne • port wine stains • pigmentation and rejuvenation

Choose wisely with To learn more CALL NOW

01902 429586

82 Tettenhall Road Wolverhampton WV1 4TF 86

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

A modern twist on Cleopatra’s

beauty secret

Faye Wozniak – skin peels can offer a more youthful appearance Egyptian artistry, education and attention to beauty set a benchmark in cultural history and few figures of the passing ages match the political prowess of charismatic Cleopatra VII who ruled from 51BC to 30BC. Famed for affairs with Roman rulers, Julius Caesar and Mark Anthony, this Queen of Egypt was a highly intelligent and beautiful woman.

Obsessed with preserving her skin – ancient Egyptians regarded beauty as a sign of holiness – she regularly bathed in milk.

Legend has it that no less than 700 asses were needed to provide the quantity necessary for her daily dip.

Whether Cleopatra knew it, we’ll never know, but it is now recognised that milk extracts can indeed be a key ingredient in therapies to revitalise skin and this woman, both revered and reviled by history, might just have benefited from such a science.

Lactic acid is an Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA) derived from milk, this is combined with Canadian Willowherb, a natural anti-inflammatory, to create a unique minimal downtime peel.

This premium clinical grade chemical face peel is a complete rejuvenation treatment. It is superior to ordinary facial treatments as it gently peels and decongests pores while hydrating the skin to achieve visible, long-term results. Medivisage face peels address skin concerns such as dull, lifeless, uneven skin tone, sun damage, ageing, pigmentation, congestion and oily, acne conditions.

The Aspect Dr range that Medivisage use is an Australian perspective on skincare. Their lifestyle is sun and surf and a daily dose of extreme climate. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

So unfortunately with that love of sun, Australia has the highest occurrence of skin cancer in the world. So a skin care that gets the job done without harsh and harmful ingredients are a necessity.

Their philosophy is to change without trauma, as irritated skin is ageing skin.

Medi Visage skin and beauty therapist Faye Wozniak explains: “Lactobotanical peels are suitable for even sensitive skin types and a course of three sessions is recommended every two weeks. They work on the epidermis, the uppermost layer of the skin, breaking down the glue that holds the cells together which enables a faster cell turnover resulting in youthful looking skin as the healthier layers of skin are brought to the surface.”

“The peels are a great start to aid in getting lasting results for our patients that are looking to go for antiwrinkle injectable treatments and the PRP therapy, better known as the ‘Vampire face lift’. It not only aids the needle into the skin better but it is also giving the skin itself an all over youthful appearance which cannot be achieved with injectables alone.”

Along with the body sculpturing 3D Lipo therapies that offers an easy solution to fat reduction, skin tightening an cellulite without invasive surgery, Medi Visage, based on the Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton, also offers IPL, dermal fillers, muscle relaxants, Heavens bee sting facial and massage.

“Our other strength is the medical work with Mr Khaleeq Ur-Rehman. We provide consultant-led assessment and diagnostic services for non-healing ulcers in the mouth and on skin, as well as lumps, bumps and suspect moles and blemishes,” says Faye.

The service provides a fast-track, self-referral approach in dealing with some very serious health issues that can’t always be put on a waiting list.

Concerned people can just call or walk in to make an appointment and can be seen within that week.

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Local optician nominated for

prestigious award Taylor Biddle Opticians are immensely proud to be nominated as one of the finalists in the Express and Star Business Awards 2015; Best Use of Technology category.

In the present economic climate when approximately 20 independent optician practices are closing each week, Taylor Biddle Opticians has been continually investing in latest eye care innovations and technology whilst remaining focused on exceptional, friendly customer service.

Olha Lac & Tracey Taylor

At TBO, we believe that the best use of technology is to be able to preserve and save the most precious sense of all- eyesight.

We aim to exceed the expectations of our customers through use of latest technological innovations in eye care and expertise of our staff.

Both branches have cutting edge 3-D imaging technology; OCT scanners - which produce detailed photographs and scans of the back of the eye so that sight threatening diseases such as Macular Degeneration and Glaucoma can be detected at the earliest stages enabling us to refer our customers immediately to hospital for treatment, often preserving sight. The software produces analysis of the previous results to enable early diagnosis of many sight threatening eye diseases.

We also run an extremely popular Dry Eye Clinic using a Video Slit lamp microscope and Corneal Topographer for the

dry eye assessments and to monitor treatment progress.

We are one of the very few optician businesses in the region that specialise in EyeDream contact lenses- special lenses worn overnight that gently reshape cornea and correct myopia (short-sightedness) during sleep, so that perfect vision is restored for the day ahead.

Medmont Topographer maps out the shape of cornea so that a bespoke contact lens can be made to temporarily change the shape of the eye and restore good vision.

Unlike laser surgery, this treatment is safe and reversible. We also use it to slow down progression of shortsightedness in children, thus reducing the chance of eye complications such as Retinal Detachment and Glaucoma in the future.

At Taylor Biddle Opticians we are proud to provide the best possible customer service. We strive to stand out from the crowd through our forward thinking approach to eye care services and our long-standing customer base is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication.

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 fabulous and exclusive Oliver Peoples frames

Now Available

The latest Ray Ban frames and sunglasses

www.taylorbiddleopticians.co.uk 39 Bridgnorth Road, Compton Tel: 01902 750 325 34 Windmill Bank, Wombourne Tel: 01902 895 909 88

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

‘Invisible’ technology Obvious results

embrace

your inner smile We use the latest ‘invisible’ therapies to rebuild smiles compromised by irregular teeth. State-ofthe-art technology and a team with a distinguished reputation combine to deliver stunning results. Have a chat to us and find out why increasing numbers of adults choose us to straightening out their looks.

Procedures involve regular visits to our orthodontic clinic and treatment can last from 6 to 24 months.

Our orthodontic service is hugely popular

We offer complimentary first consultations

We’re about permanence and consistency

We do implants and aesthetic dentistry

We want to get to know you and your family

We remake smiles and redefine lives

We understand children and teenagers

We are wheelchair friendly

Find out what makes us so popular – call us or just drop in to discuss our affordable treatment schemes.

Telephone: www.parksidedental.co.uk

01902 421291 7 Park Road West, Wolverhampton, WV1 4PS

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

part of Jon Pugh Dental

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Looking For The Perfect Body Without Surgery?

Imagine a non-surgical fat reduction procedure that costs a fraction of what most treatments cost, is permanent, and tackles those tough spots like ‘love handles’ and belly fat. UltraSlim LipoFreeze Cryolipolysis and Ultrasound Cavitation Lipo are the most effective non surgical body sculpting treatments available on the market today. Inches can be lost off any given area of the body with a short, simple treatment administered in a comfortable, relaxed environment. Cryolipolysis LipoFreeze (Fat Freezing) delivers controlled cooling to reduce fat by up to 40% during a single treatment, while Ultrasound Cavitation Lipo & RF delivers instant results for fat reduction, in addition to targeting cellulite, reducing stretch marks and tightening loose skin after child birth. We are shaped by what we love, but you’ll love the shape you can achieve at UltraSlim Clinics.

Before

After

Before and After 1 UltraSlim LipoFreeze™ Treatment’

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

ULTRASLIM LIPOFREEZE™ CRYOLIPOLYSIS Target Excess Fat & Reduce Cellulite • Treat up to 4 areas simultaneously to reduce time and costs • Clinically Proven, FDA Medically Cleared and Effective • The latest treatment to banish unwanted fat permanently • Undeniable results by up to 40% in only one treatment • No Surgery, No Scars & No Downtime • The treatment all the stars and celebrities have been shouting about

ULTRASLIM LIPO™ CAVITATION & RADIO FREQUENCY TREATMENTS Target Excess Fat, Cellulite & Tighten Skin • Instant Results for Fat Reduction • Totally Non Invasive, • No Surgery, No Needles, • No Pain, No Side Effects, No Downtime!

UltraSlim Clinics 36-38 Berry Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1HA T: 0844 288 7297 E: info@ultraslimclinics.com

www.ultraslimclinics.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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New Di r ector

at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital

New Hospital Director at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital Karen Pattison, in the extensive grounds of the private hospital

With an established 15 year track record at Nuffield Health, Karen Pattison has been appointed to the pivotal role of Hospital Director for the 40 en-suite bedroom private hospital in Tettenhall, Wolverhampton from the end of March.

Beginning her career as a locum Pharmacy Technician travelling around the Cheshire and Manchester area, Karen’s first role with Nuffield Health was at the North Staffordshire hospital as Pharmacy Manager from where she progressed to commercial manager and active member of the senior management team. Karen then moved to the south west to help with the commissioning of a brand new £20 million Nuffield Health hospital in Bristol. On the back of this success, the role of Hospital Director at Hereford and then Glasgow followed.

Hospital Director Karen Pattison is clearly delighted with her new role at the pleasantly situated hospital in Tettenhall, saying “What I am enjoying most about Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital is the warmth of the people here, both

patients and staff. All the team here are very friendly, caring and welcoming and willing to go the extra mile to make the hospital experience a relaxing one. Building on the success of the last 37 years that the hospital has been here, I am looking forward to developing Wolverhampton’s private hospital even further for patients. In the next two years, we are planning to install a whole new diagnostic centre with our static 1.5T MRI suite and a purpose designed eye clinic.

We will be looking for local people to join our Patients’ Forum to help us and our clinicians design the services we need for the future.”

Rapid Expert Diagnosis and Treatment At Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital we want you to have the facts at your fingertips regarding private healthcare - you can choose your consultant, your hospital and get an appointment quickly.

You don’t need to be in a health insurance scheme to get an opinion from a private specialist or to access the hospital facilities, all with plentiful free parking. Self-pay care packages are available, with interest free credit, so you don’t have to pay up front all at once.

A letter of referral will be required from your GP, then simply ring our helpful customer service team to make an appointment with the right specialist, right away. Just ring 01902 793269.

As an indication of prices, consultations cost from £150 and joint injections start from £350.

For some typical procedures, prices start as follows: • varicose vein treatment from £350 • carpal tunnel release £1885 • hernia repair £2700 • cataract removal £2470 For our self-pay patients, we offer a Price Match Promise* where we will

Friendly reception

meet any comparable price and there are no limits on our aftercare services.

Specialist areas of treatment from first rate clinicians include hip and knee replacement, foot and ankle, hand, shoulder and elbow surgery, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer treatment, neurology, heart problems, men’s and women’s health and general surgery, such as hernia repair, as well as onsite physiotherapy. Additionally, all types of surgery for eyes, ear, nose and throat and oral surgery through to bariatric, cosmetic and plastic surgery, are available.

In addition to the outstanding care provided to private patients, Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital has been named as a top performing independent hospital in the most recent NHS Partners Network Report on Independent sector providers caring for NHS patients.

In a 2015 NHS Partners Network Report, Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital performed particularly highly for primary knee and hip replacement surgery, where it was found that patients had significantly improved knee and hip functionality and reduced pain, using the Oxford Knee and Hip Score technique.

At Nuffield Health, our patients regularly comment on our excellent services - see: www.nuffieldhealth.com/ hospitals/wolverhampton

*Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. “Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention.

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Contact us today and take control of your health and wellbeing Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 8LE 01902 793259

Hospitals + Health Checks + Physio + Gyms

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Trend Update:

summer style

By Helen Taylor

The long hot days of summer are just around the corner, so you’ve got the perfect excuse to hit the shops and grab as many of the latest trend looks you can find.

Wrap Tunic Top £69 Mint Velvet

Colourful, statement print floral dresses have taken over as one of the key looks for summer 2015. They’re ideal for the warm weather and look effortlessly stylish both day or night.

Monochrome prints are big news too; black and white is a classic colour combination that never fails to look chic.

For a casual look, swap your skinny jeans for 1970’s inspired flares and team with a pair of embellished flip flops and a t-shirt.

Forget reaching for the same old outfit when the sun’s shining; it’s time to try something new.

Floral Print Trousers £17.99 New Look

Sandals £79 Dune

Aztec Wrap Skirt £24 Next

Sunflower Print Dress £59 Dickins & Jones at House of Fraser

Embellished Collar Shirt £99 High Waist Jeans £75 an Moc Croc Bag £109 Dickins & Jones at House of Fraser

The images used in this article are readily available in various places on the internet and are believed to be in the public domain. Wolverhampton West magazine claims no credit for them unless otherwise noted.

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Printed Dress £99 Phase Eight

‘Leni Dress’ £160 Phase Eight

Flares £26 Dorothy Perkins

Dress £38 Dorothy Perkins

Kimono Jacket £35 Wallis

White Colette Bag £340 Michael Kors at Diffusion Brown Embellished Sandal £35 Wallis

Floral Shift Dress £125 Dickins & Jones at House of Fraser

Charms from £15 Bracelets from £35 Endless Jewellery Exclusively at T.A. Henn, Wolverhampton

Yellow Floral Jacket £150 Yellow Floral Dress £150 Dickins & Jones at House of Fraser

If you own the rights to any of the images, or if any content appearing in Wolverhampton West magazine infringes on your copyright, please notify us and they will be promptly removed.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Registered Charity No. 512387

COMPTON IN THE PARK SUNDAY 28TH JUNE 2015 West Park Wolverhampton

QUEEN II

PHOENIX RISING

STRICTLY QUIRKEY DANCING COMPETITION PET STOP POOCH PARADE

ALSO FEATURING PAWS FOR THOUGH DOG SHOW • SHIKIDIM BELLY DANCE TROUPE MICHELLE LEWIS ULTRA STAR CHEERLEADING SQUAD COMPTON CUP FOOTBALL ANNUAL 5 MILE SPONSORED MEMORY WALK AND FUN RUN COMPTON COLOUR 5K COLOUR BLAST • CHILDREN’S PANTOMIME BOUNCY CASTLES • CHILDREN’S RIDES AND GAMES MARKET STALLS • FACEPAINTERS • PETTING ZOO FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

OLD MILL AUCTION ROOMS MILL STREET, LOW TOWN BRIDGNORTH WV15 5AG

TEL 01746 762248

ANTIQUE AND SELECTED FURNITURE AND COLLECTABLES AUCTIONS NEXT AUCTIONS Tuesday 2nd June Tuesday 7th July Tuesday 4th August

VIEWING

Saturday and Sunday 10am – 4pm, Monday 10am – 5pm prior to auction

LAST DAY FOR LOTS

Accepted up until 10 days prior to Auction

SELLING AT PERRY AND PHILLIPS

If you have old items around the house or you have a deceased estate to clear we have the ability and experience to help. We have monthly auctions so items can be dealt with quickly.

FREE VALUATION

We have a FREE valuation day every Wednesday from 10am to 4pm.

As well as discussing auction estimates we will advise on the best way to sell your items.

TRANSPORT AND STORAGE

As we employ our own delivery and collection staff we can ensure your goods are dealt with by trained staff and are insured.

www.perryandphillips.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Social Scene

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Royston Blythe Coffee Morning 1. Adrienne Sheldon, Mary Lewis, Suzanne Morison, Kinny Blakemore, Elsa Grainger and Sandie Mclean 2. Louise Polak, Chalotte Jordan and Kirsty Hampton 3. Ellie Goodall, Lynne Edwards and Sarah Craven 4. Gillian Kinchin, Valda Higgs, Irene Price and Jenny McClay 5. Cora Boffey and Brenda Swatman 6. Hannah and Diane Wardle, Chris Bennasciutti, Sue Dhingra, Judy Lees (b/r) Cath Tudor and Lindsey Gordos 7. Karen Price, Matt Swann and Olivia Price 8. Gill Barratt, Joan Makepeace, Jean Allen and Elsie Evans 9. Ella and Karen Rollinson, Lyn Jones, Tracy Smith and Kathy Rollinson

A coffee morning in aid of Compton Hospice was organised by Margaret Watton, with the support of Nick and Royston who provided not only their beautiful home as the backdrop but also the added surprises of the morning. The guests were greeted by butlers in the buff and the entertainment included a rat pack and a soul singer and a fabulous guitarist and pianist.

Over 150 tickets were sold and including the raffle money the total raised amounted to over ÂŁ3000.

15. Tracy Doughty, Debbie Jarzebowski, Lewis Clarke and Fiona Hawthorne 16. Sarah George-Dempster, Jan Humphries and Ann Clarke with the male hosts

Looking for advice on cosmetic surger y?

10. Margaret Tunnicliff, Carol Batt and Sara Tunnicliff 11. June Barnett and Yvette Brentnall 12. Jo Bridgwood, Caroline Boydell and Deborah Mitchell 13. Estelle Riley, Marina Whyton and Linda Hunt 14. Nick and Royston 98

Book a FREE 10 minute one-to-one chat with a consultant at our next cosmetic event on Tuesday 7th July 2015. Please call 0845 603 4346 to book your place.

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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WV1 Bar & Restaurant

Diffusion hosted a Charity event for Promise Dreams and The Steve Bull Foundation at the fabulous WV1 Bar and restaurant at Molineux stadium.

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The models included a number of footballers including Matt Murray,Tony Daley, Rob Edwards, Lee Naylor and Dave Barnett, the crowd were suitably impressed and welcomed them on stage.

Rob Smith, Edward Spencer, Peter Smith & Steve Compton Kiran Rayet, Christine Burgess Sara & Ian Tunnicliff, Kim Guest Lynn Timmins, Nadine Green and Parl Mangat Karen Fletcher, Amanda Sperling, Kerry Moseley and Jane Wellsbury 6. Storm Willis-James, Sarah Brown, Theresa Goodson and Tric Gooding 7. Sharnie Forman and Shazia Bano-Shah 8. Kirsty Bull & Beverley Bird 9. Sarah Newsome & Simon Pagett 10. Rav Rayet and Dee 11. Anita and Daniel Hill 12. Alison Preece and Sharon Campbell 13. Aron Parcsami and Manrika Khaira 14. Madeline and Rod Painter 15. Jackie Land-Keavney and Ravnita Rayet 16. Jennie Carpenter and Warren Clutton 100

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Over 350 guests attended and were entertained on entrance

by Alexandra Jayne and later by Sasha Simone,The Voice finalist.

The catwalk show was a sensation with clothing from Armani, Ted Baker, Hugo Boss, Paul Smith and True Religion.

Designer handbags were raffled much to the delight of the ladies.

Looking for advice on cosmetic surger y?

Book a FREE 10 minute one-to-one chat with a consultant at our next cosmetic event on Tuesday 7th July 2015. Please call 0845 603 4346 to book your place.

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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Wergs Golf Club 1. Alisan Cole, Natalie Pritchard, Eve Farrell 2. Sheena Chahal, Richard Powell 3. Brampal Bansal, Poonam Vaidya Bansal, Raj Kaur, Ushma Vaidya 4. Sophie Jones, Tyler Haynes, Willow and Harriet Piggott 5. Elizabeth Eyett, Donna Edwards

Word of Mouth held their most successful event to date on Easter Sunday at The Wergs Golf Club.

An evening of Funk, Soul, Disco, Funk House & Club Classics organised by DJ Stuart Ojelay were enjoyed by all across the three club rooms and outside decking.

13. Hayley Darby, Jemma Rannello 14. Kellee Foulkes, Jo Paxton, Lorna Wilkes 15. Julie Baker, Gill Lyons 16. John and Sarah Vaughan, Danni Vater, Lorraine Sutton 17. Abby Savory, Layla Sedgemore, Louise Clarke, Zara Mir

6. Holly Mactherson, Kelly Davies, Madison Hill 7. Nav Dhaliwal, Kiddo Jay

Looking for advice on cosmetic surger y?

8. Stu Atkinson, Claire Davies, Peter Thompson, Leanne Pumphrey 9. Graham Thorpe, Steve Thompson 10. Katie Jancso, Andrea Beckett, Lauren McHugh, Cassie Judd 11. Sally and Andrew Smith 12. Katherine and Jamie Stainer, Amy Grainger 102

Book a FREE 10 minute one-to-one chat with a consultant at our next cosmetic event on Tuesday 7th July 2015. Please call 0845 603 4346 to book your place.

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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Simply Dentures,

creating beauty in every smile involved and informed through every stage of construction gives you the confidence that you will get the smile you deserve.

With years of training and experience our team aims to provide you with dentures that help you overcome the challenging problems you face.

Peter Brookes DipCDT ‘Creating beauty in every smile’

You may never have given much thought to who or how dentures are made. Typically if you require new false teeth you pop along to your dentist and the process begins. The relevant impressions are taken and the teeth are constructed by a technician in a laboratory hidden away somewhere.

Illustration of implant-retained overdentures

Peter says “Having to wear dentures is something that many people through the years have struggled to cope with. We find that the three most common issues for denture wearers are the fit, the function and appearance. We work with you to enable you to get the best from your dentures as well as have them look good too”.

He continues “I recently had the pleasure to fit new dentures to a patient who was left in a poor state and had no teeth for 6 months. There was a great sense of satisfaction that we were able to provide dentures on implants which look great and enabled the patient to eat foods of her first choice once again.

Using the latest technologies such as injection moulded acrylic, ultra suction device and implants ensures that your denture wearing experience is as good as it can be. Not every option is suitable for all so we offer you a free consultation to see what may be a good solution for you.

Our clinic offers warm welcoming facilities for all, easy ground floor access, 3 ground floor surgeries, car park to the rear and friendly staff. We will do what we can to help overcome any issues you may face to make your journey to your new smile as smooth as possible.

Should you require a denture repair, relines or cleaning services then these are available too for those dentures which work but need that extra touch of TLC”.

More people have become aware over recent years that you can now see a Clinical Dental Technician to provide you with dentures. As part of the extended dental team a CDT can make your dentures in the laboratory and also work with you in the clinic and literally put the smile on your face.

Mr Peter Brookes is our lead Clinical Dental Technician who has over 15 years experience as a technician. For the last 6 years he has been been training within a private denture clinic, giving him great insight into the manufacture of high quality dentures. His firm belief that you should be 104

See the website for more information www.simplydentures.net or call for a free information pack. wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Simply Confident, Simply Natural...

Simply Dentures

Telephone 01902 420654

Working with

Total Implant Solutions

for a complimentary consultation 82 Tettenhall Road Wolverhampton WV1 4TF www.simplydentures.net

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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5 TOP TIPS

TO STAYING HEALTHY THIS SUMMER

Summer is finally here; the time of infinite fun, BBQs, relaxation, vacations and spending time with loved ones.

However, for many of us, summer also brings the temptations to over indulge in ice creams and smoothies, overdoing the tan and forgetting the summer diet and exercise.

We have put together 5 top tips to help keep you on top of your health whilst enjoying the summer festivities: 1. Protect your skin We all know how crucial it is to apply sunscreen lotion when going out in the sun, yet a lot of us ignore its importance and head out without protecting our skin. It is vital to use a sun screen lotion of at least SPF 30 in order to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. For sensitive skin, a mineral-based sunscreen is best. Try and avoid long periods of sitting out in the sun during peak hours (between 10am and 4pm) in order to minimize UV radiation. If you are planning to be out in the sun for a long period of time, reapply sun screen every two to three hours and try and look out for areas where you can take shade.

2. Stay hydrated During the hot summer months, heat and sweat can leave our bodies dehydrated. A lack of water can be harmful to our bodies and also make us crave food when we’re not actually hungry. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking at least eight to nine glasses of water a day.

Bored of water? Add some low calorific flavouring to water 106

such as a piece of fruit, or opt for healthy alternatives like green tea or coconut water.

3. Eat well When the weather is fab and the days are long, the thing to do is fire up the grill, round up your family and friends, and feast. Everybody loves a barbecue. However, large food spreads can lead to over indulging on the wrong types of food. Stock up on salads, vegetable sticks with hummus, yoghurts and endless amounts of fruit. Go for more raw foods that are full of nutrients and vitamins.

4. Exercise We work out throughout winter and spring for the perfect beach body and as soon as summer comes we start to neglect our exercise regime.

We swap evenings at the gym for evenings lounging in the garden or socialising – and who wouldn’t. Try and get

your daily 30 mins of exercise by swapping vigorous gym workouts for summer evening walks, sports activities with the family or cooling off with a 20 minute swim.

5. Relax Sometimes we try and do too much during the summer – we think that we have to book a vacation or be out doing an activity. However, it’s ok sometimes to just take time out. Allow yourself to sit back and let your mind and body relax and rejuvenate.

We hope you find the tips above helpful and that you have an enjoyable summer. For further information on how you can stay on top of your health please visit www.paycare.org or call 01902 252 265.

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

A Paycare plan helps you to reclaim money spent on health care.

Cover starts from as little as £6.25 per month with your first premium FREE!

Easy healthcare cash plans to Recover the cost of healthcare A Paycare cash plan makes every day healthcare affordable; so you can focus on getting the treatment when you need it and not when you can afford it.

For a small monthly premium you are protected against the cost of Dental, Optical, Chiropody, Specialist Consultation and Tests, professional Therapies, Hospital Cover and much more. All plans include a 24 hour counselling and help line service for when that extra support or advice is needed.

FREE

!

Under 25s Paycare Go is a healthcare cashplan designed specifically for young adults aged 18 to 24. Whether at home, away at college, or just enjoying independent living for the first time healthcare is easy to overlook.

From £5.00 per month Call 01902 252 265

A Paycare plan is useful for both day to day healthcare and those unexpected emergencies that crop up from time to time.

Individuals Paycare direct is aimed at individuals aged between 18 & 64. No medical is required to join. With the choice of four premium levels you can choose just how much cost protection you would like to receive.

Refunds are prompt, usually within 48 hours of receipt, directly into your bank or building society account - so you are never left out of pocket for long.

Need help?

From £6.25 per month Call 01902 252 265

Mon to Fri 8.30 to 4.30pm or email us.

Tel: 01902 252 265 enquiries@paycare.org

F monirst prem ths ium

Over 64s Paycare Gold is aimed specifically at the over 64s. There are extra benefits where seniors have an increased need: for things like hearing aids and home care assessment and support.

From £21.00 per month Call 01902 252 265

Families Aimed specifically at Parents and their children, this comprehensive policy ensures that your whole family can receive necessary medical care, without worrying about making tough decisions as claims are generally settled within 48 hours.

From £30.00 per month Call 01902 252 265

www.paycare.org *First months premium free offer ends 31st Dec 2015.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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CHIROPODY & PODIATRY CLINICS

HCPC/STATE REGISTERED

Tom Casey BSc (Hons), MCHS, SRCH Margaret Kennedy BSc (Hons), MCHS, SRCH Ian Banyard Chartered Physiotherapist MCSP, MMACP, MAACP, MSc Physiotherapy Clinic now available please call 01902 833426

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 in our refurbished modern surgery please call Tom Casey on 07828 613165 or 01902 833426 For other surgery appointments please call or visit: Evenett & Bishop Opticians 67 High Street Albrighton WV7 3JA 01902 372141 Six Ways Clinic 24 Birmingham Road Walsall WS1 2LT 01922 622521

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Tom’s tip:

Heel Pain?

Heel pain is also known as ‘policeman’s heel’.

The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis which is commonly referred to as a heel spur. The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue which runs along the bottom surface of the foot, from the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which the plantar fascia is inflamed. This condition can be very painful and cause considerable amount of suffering.

Symptoms include a dull ache which is felt most of the time with episodes of a sharp pain in the centre of the heel or on the inside margin of the heel.

Often the pain is worse on first rising in the morning and after rest and is aggravated by prolonged weight bearing & thin soled shoes.

Causes of heel pain •

Biomechanical problems (walking abnormalities) are a major cause of plantar fasciitis.

•

Tight plantar fascia (this is often caused by tight calf muscles).

•

Excessive flattening of the arch on weight bearing.

•

Excessive pronation (rolling in of the foot too much)

•

Obesity is a major cause of plantar fasciitis. Which is why this condition is common in middle aged and over weight adults.

•

A sudden increase in weight, such as pregnancy can also lead to plantar fasciitis.

•

A sudden increase in walking or a sporting activity can also be a contributing factor.

•

Standing for long periods at work.

WOLVERHAMPTON HIP

•

There are several conditions which may cause pain under the heel. Osteo and rheumatoid arthritis, fractured heel bone, bursitis, neuritis, oedema, circulatory issues, poly and fibromyalgia are but a few.

Treatment options for heel pain Orthotics (insoles)- One of the most effective treatment options.

This comes with Stretching exercises for plantar fascia and calf muscles. NSAIDs (Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) may also be prescribed by your chiropodist/podiatrist or doctor.

Plantar Fascia night splints, Steroid/local anaesthetic injection and surgery are further treatment options.

& 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 754177 ext. 2391, 01902 793225 or visit: www.wolverhamptonhipandkneeclinic.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

109

FROM LIT TLE

A C O R NS Nick & David Berriman with the Tettenhall office team

Twenty five years ago David Berriman started in business with one assistant and twelve properties to sell. Berriman Eaton now has a compliment of twenty six with eleven in Sales in Tettenhall and five in Rentals, five in Wombourne and five in Bridgnorth with a total number of properties for sale of three hundred and sixty nine and thirty two to let so something must have been right!

David started with the old established local firm of Walker Barnett and Hill in 1953 after

leaving Wolverhampton Grammar School and was articled to the late Freddy Hill. Three years articles cost two hundred and fifty guineas and pay was one pound per week which was supplemented with petrol expenses for his MG TC! Apart from two years National Service when he trained as a pilot David stayed with the firm until it was sold to General Accident in 1987 at which time he was Senior Partner. He became a member or the Midland Regional Board of GA Property Services and was the Marketing Director responsible for sixty six branches.

After three years he hankered to return to a local and personal

business and opened an office in Albrighton. His service contract restricted him from starting within ten miles of the Wolverhampton office and although Albrighton was ten miles if approached through Shifnal that was not the recommended route, but both he and GA were happy with the arrangement.

The business grew, more staff were employed and after five years the premises were outgrown and a move was necessary. The centre of Wolverhampton did not appeal and Tettenhall seemed an ideal location.

After an extended search 15 High Street was the answer which had previously been a hairdressing salon and for several years puzzled ladies occasionally came through the door wanting a hairdo and not a house!

The business continued to grow and more staff were employed and then David’s younger son Nick joined in 1998. He had a Law Degree from Manchester

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

The Tettenhall office lettings team

and had been in London for five years working with his elder brother Chris at Alsopp the Property Auctioneers. The adjacent property became available a few years later so the floor space was doubled which was a good thing as it is now fully utilised.

In 2005 David stood back to become a Consultant leaving Nick to take over the business as the sole partner and shortly afterwards the business was amalgamated with Eaton Estates who had offices in Wombourne and Bridgnorth.

Caroline Eaton had Joined Walker Barnett and Hill as a trainee when she was seventeen and had shown immediate potential being trusted two years later to manage the Perton office when she was probably the youngest branch manager anywhere. Sometime after the sale of WB&H Caroline started on her own as Eaton Estate in Wombourne in 1994

Caroline Eaton with the Bridgnorth office team

and subsequently in Bridgnorth with considerable success so this year celebrates twenty one years in business. She was known to Nick and had been trained by David so the amalgamation was a very good fit. Berriman Eaton continued to grow and whilst it had been good to be the only Estate Agent in Tettenhall several others soon followed. This had the advantage of the village becoming a property centre, drawing more people in to look and not having the sorts of parking problems associated with the city centre.

When the property market suffers one of its declines the rental market picks up and that is what happened a few years ago. The rental department was then in Wombourne but was moved to Tettenhall and now has a manager and a staff of four (it has been said that he employs his staff based on their looks and you can see why from the photograph!) Rentals have been a growth industry in recent years and proper qualifications and a professional approach are fundamentally important.

We have been fortunate to keep staff for a long time. Carol Pilsbury joined Caroline when she opened in 1994 and Maddy Swann joined in 1995 when the Tettenhall Office opened becoming an Associate some years later and is now managing the Wombourne Office.

Diane Hennessy joined Caroline twenty years ago in Wombourne, Richard Eaton, now an Associate and based in Wombourne responsible for the firms IT and preparation of floor plans and photographs joined his sister fifteen

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

The team from the Wombourne office

years ago, Linda Davies, Jane McGuire and Trish Gooding have all been with the firm in Tettenhall for twelve years. Sarah Brown joined the Tettenhall office ten years ago and at the same time Ellie Eaton joined Caroline in Bridgnorth.

Bruce Attwood is an Associate based in Bridgnorth after gaining experience with several other firms and Andy Roberts, who manages Rentals, is also an Associate.

There is vast experience and expertise at all levels with a happy and committed staff in all offices. The professionalism is demonstrated by there being two Law Degrees, one Chartered Surveyor, nine qualified Members of the National Association of Estate Agents and three Members of the Association of Residential Letting Agents with a further two staff members now in the process of qualifying.

This year celebrates twenty five years since the business was founded by David Berriman, twenty years since it moved to Tettenhall and twenty one years since Eaton Estates was started

by Caroline. This would not have been possible without the excellent staff and so many loyal clients all of whom have our gratitude.

The Wolves have not secured promotion this year but Berriman Eaton can justifiably lay claim to being in the Premier League!

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Learn to Swim

with South Staffordshire’s

Swim Academy Learning how to swim is a crucial life skill and one that everyone regardless of their age should learn to do.

South Staffordshire’s Swim Academy offers local people of all ages the opportunity to learn to swim for health, safety and for fun.

The academy which operates at all four of South Staffordshire’s leisure centres has a lot to offer: • High quality swimming tuition at affordable prices • Lessons from 3yrs up to adults • Beginners and non-swimmers to advanced standards • Good teacher/child ratios • Lessons run throughout the whole year to ensure continual progression • Assistants in the water to aid weaker classes and give additional support for swimmers What else makes us special?

• Our swim teachers are professionally trained • We follow the STA’s international Learn to Swim programme – one of the most successful ranges of learn to swim and aquatic courses in the world • Above all, we make learning to swim fun, progressive, inclusive, safe and affordable.

This means that everybody is: • Encouraged to enjoy themselves • Motivated to improve • Taught step by step with rewards at every level • Supervised within a safe environment • Given the opportunity to develop all four swimming strokes What’s more, those who enrol get: • Free swimming for those that pay by Direct Debit • Free success tracker • One to one lessons available on request (extra charge)

NEW ENROLMENTS BEING TAKEN FROM 27th JULY FOR ONE WEEK ONLY *Places limited and sold on a first come, first served basis

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FREE Adult or Child Swim Pass Voucher valid until 31st July 2015 Terms and Conditions: Voucher offers 1 free swim during a public session - Voucher cannot be redeemed against swimming lessons - Child to parent ratios apply in the water - please contact reception for full details and for swimming times - 1 voucher per person, per offer - Voucher must be presented at reception.

Name……………………...................................................................

Postcode……………………... Date………....................……………

Leisure Centre…………………......................................................

Wolverhampton West Magazine June 2015

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Forward to Health South Staffordshire Council have recently launched a brand new scheme called ‘Forward to Health’ scheme (FTH) which is a 12 week exercise programme to help people of all ages to get fitter and healthier.

As part of the scheme we are offering three, 1 to 1 consultations with an exercise specialist which will include: • Nutritional Advice • Programme Design • Health Checks including weight, height, BMI, body fat and blood pressure • FREE gym sessions* • Discounts on classes and activities at all of our leisure centres

to take part in more physical activity which will help to improve their health and wellbeing.

How to take part: To take part in FTH there is an initial cost of £35.00 (Less than £3 per week) which gives you 1-1 consultations for the 12 week scheme along with all of the benefits listed above. You will need to book in for an initial assessment with one of our fitness experts. *Please be aware that you will be required to answer a few questions relating to your medical conditions What happens next: Following the 12 week programme, an exclusive offer is available to participants entitling them to a three month Forward to Health Plus membership.

This gives free use of individual activities for just £40.00… less than £3.33 per week.

For more information visit www.sstaffs.gov.uk/exercise or contact your nearest South Staffordshire Council leisure centre direct and request to book in for an initial assessment for the Forward to Health Scheme.

Contact:

The FTH scheme may be recommended to you by your GP or healthcare professional, or you can refer yourself.

Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre: 01922 417790 Codsall Leisure Centre: 01902 844032

The scheme has been specifically designed to encourage people with health and esteem concerns

Penkridge Leisure Centre: 01785 714152 Wombourne Leisure Centre: 01902 898202

FORWARD TO HEALTH WE WANT TO HELP YOU TO GET FITTER AND HEALTHIER

FREE GYM INDUCTION

of all ages with medical conditions

GET FOR ALL THI S LE £3 P SS THAN ER W EEK

User must be 16yrs+ Voucher valid to 31st July 2015 Voucher must be presented at reception at the time of booking Induction MUST be booked in advance: Cheslyn Hay: 01922 417790 Codsall: 01902 844032 Penkridge: 01785 714152 Wombourne: 01902 898202 Name...................................................................................

Postcode ............................................................................

Leisure Centre used .......................................................

Wolverhampton West – June 2015

more information on 01902 696518

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Competition Three lucky winners can each win two tickets to see THE MOUSETRAP on Monday 29th June at 7.30pm at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre.

THE MOUSETRAP returns to Wolverhampton from Monday 29th June to Saturday 4th July. The murder mystery is famous around the world for being the longest running show of any kind in the history of British theatre.

The scene is set when a group of people gathered in a country house cut off by the snow discover, to their horror, that there is a murderer in their midst. Who can it be? One by one the suspicious characters reveal their sordid pasts until at the last, nerve-shredding moment the identity and the motive are finally revealed.

In her own inimitable style, Dame Agatha Christie has created an atmosphere of shuddering suspense and a brilliantly intricate plot where murder lurks around every corner.

Call the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Box Office for more information on 01902 42 92 12 or please visit www.grandtheatre.co.uk

Previous cast photography

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y Previous cast photograph

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 before Tuesday 16th June 2015.

Which of these is an Agatha Christie sleuth?

Jessica Fletcher Jane Marple Molly Blume Nancy Drews Competition Terms and Conditions Please post all entries to Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY or email info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk. To be received no later than Tuesday 16th June 2015. Winners to collect tickets from the box office on the evening of the performance. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash alternative prize nights available.

If a winner has any access issues please let me know as this may affect the date of the tickets we have issues for this reason only we will exchange the tickets for the production. Entries will be forwarded to the Grand Theatre unless otherwise stated.

Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity.

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

we pride ourselves on the number of children that start at the academy as non swimmers and go on to train and compete for wombourne Swimming Club.

Run by Sally and Amanda we have over 20 years of teaching, coaching and competitive experience. We train ourselves for Wombourne Swimming Club and the local Triathlon Club.

OUR paSSION IS SwIMMING We aim to introduce as many children into the competitive sport of swimming through the Academy.

COMING THIS SUMMER

Summer Crash Course

Monday 20th July - Friday 24th July SMESTOw HIGH SCHOOl, wINdMIll CRESCENT CaSTlECROFT wOlvERHaMpTON wv3 8HU Improve children’s swimming and water confidence over the summer. Beginners to improvers Classes, Advanced and Technique Lengths Classes

Beginners to Improvers - 5 days x30 min lesson £27.00 advanced Improvers - 5 days x45 min lesson £40.50 > Specialists in Water Confidence > Small class sizes ( max 7 in a class) > ASA qualified teachers and assistants in the water > From 4 years + > T alent spotting for Wombourne Swimming Club

Call today to book a place and receive a Salamanda t-shirt on commencement of course… Hurry places will be snapped up!

Places subject to availability.

Call amanda/Sally: 07879 997840

Email: salamanda.sa@googlemail.com

www.salamandaswimmingacademy.com Sally Credali & amanda dunning

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

ay into Offering a pathw ming competitive swim ne through wombour ub Swimming Cl

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MORE

GRANDPARENTS

GIVEN LEGAL RIGHTS

“If I had known grandchildren were so much fun, I’d have had them first”, so the saying goes.

But for some grandparents in the West Midlands, it is anything but fun following a rise in the number of people resorting to court action simply to see their grandchildren.

According to statistics from the Ministry of Justice, more than 2,500 applications were lodged by grandparents wanting to see their grandchildren in 2013/14 - that’s seven new cases per day.

It’s not a figure that surprises Joanne Vernon, an Associate Solicitor and specialist in family law at FBC Manby Bowdler.

“With an increase in divorces and relationship breakdowns, it is inevitable that relationships between grandparents and their grandchildren can get caught up in the crossfire,” she said.

“Research shows that around half of grandparents never see their grandchildren again following a break up. In law, grandparents have no automatic right to see their grandchildren, so if one partner decides to prevent this, grandparents can be left with little choice other than legal action.”

The first step for any grandparent, said Jo, would be to attempt to make an agreement with the parent of the grandchildren to make arrangements to see them.

She added: “It would be preferable to try and make an agreement out of court in the first instance. However, if you are forced into using the court system, you can apply for a child arrangements order that will determine the arrangements.

“This can include information such as when, where and how they are to see the child or children and it can be enforced if, for instance, a parent breaches it and refuses to comply.”

The figures were released following a written answer from Simon Hughes, Minister of State for Justice from a question put

by Steve McCabe MP asking;

The award-winning family department at FBC Manby Bowdler is recognised as one of the leading teams in the region, with the focus always on excellent service and client care.

The team adopts a sympathetic and supportive approach with the emphasis on providing a satisfactory outcome as quickly as practicable for all concerned.

Joanne Vernon specialises in divorce, financial remedy applications, cohabitation disputes, domestic violence and injunctions and has a particular interest in children and family matters. She has Accredited Specialist status with Resolution.

She can be contacted by phone on 01902 392454 or by email at j.vernon@fbcmb.co.uk

“How many applications for court orders have there been from grandparents wishing to see grandchildren after the divorce of the parents of those children in the last three years.”

Joanne Vernon

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The answers given confirmed that the number of applications was in the region of 2,500 for each of the last three financial years. wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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Education

and Schooling

by David Williams – Headmaster of Tettenhall College of a large number of feeder schools which can lead to repetition of material or gaps in knowledge. For example, a French teacher in Year 7 is often faced with a range of previous experience from zero to three years and has to revert to the unsatisfactory tactic of starting from the beginning again to best serve those in the class. There can be a sudden switch from group-based project work and themed, innovative approaches with one teacher who knows them and their needs well to myriad expectations as pupils move around school to a large number of teachers for different subjects, some of whom are teaching four different groups in the same year and can only identify your child from the name badge at parents’ evening in the summer term.

The educational world has also recognised the loss of enthusiasm and possible onset of disaffection as pupils move to secondary school and looked at ways of tackling the issue. These include regional variations in transition ages, increased affiliations with feeders and federations of primaries in order to find the optimum way of bridging the gap and bottling the best of both worlds.

In my short time in the West Midlands it has been clear that the selection of a secondary school for parent and the transition from Year 6 to Year 7 is a period that can be best described as a challenge or at worst downright stressful, particularly for those experiencing it with a first child.

This is not peculiar to this part of the country. The move to a secondary school can be disruptive as, in some cases, small village or local primaries with familiar faces are replaced by much larger impersonal institutions at secondary level. Those at the top of the primary school, confident and responsible, suddenly become the babies among several hundred.

For some, this can be an exciting challenge and opportunity but for others this can provide a dent to self-esteem and hindrance to progress, no matter how effective the induction or mentoring programme.

From an academic perspective, schools are also faced with the challenge of trying to build on the practice 118

A new and exciting trend that acknowledges these issues and provides a model to address them is the rise in the development of the “all-through” school from nursery age or four until 18, where one school provides a seamless educational experience with no need to change. It is significant where parents and providers have had opportunities to create new schools via the government’s free school programme that one in six of these will be all through mainstream schools (as opposed to one in 200 of the total schools in England). Of course, these schools have been a significant part of the independent sector for many years and schools such as Tettenhall College have responded to the demand for continuity, a common ethos and the attraction of specialist teachers teaching across all parts of a school. We have created a true “family” school, where children can be educated from nursery until university and all are known and valued. In a recent training day,all staff were agreed on the benefits of a shared educational vision on a single site as we seek to provide an outstanding educational experience for those in our care.

It will be interesting to note whether this is a model that will be replicated across more schools in the country. wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

take a closer look...

Open Morning Saturday 26th September 2015 10.00am - 1.00pm

A unique atmosphere with remarkable opportunities, where every pupil achieves their personal best.

To reserve your place please contact admissions@tettcoll.co.uk or telephone 01902 751119.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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advertisement feature

HOW TO POTENTIALLY

RETIRE AT 55

If you have ever thought “I REALLY WISH I COULD STOP WORKING, BUT HOW COULD I AFFORD TO?” the answer could well be dependent on your pension and how well it has performed.

This month let’s look at ways in which you can get your pension into shape.

1. USE YOUR SHARE OF THE £35 BILLION TAX RELIEF GIVES PENSION SAVERS. When you put money in a personal pension tax relief also contributes.

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If you pay in £1,000 tax relief automatically adds another £250 so your pension pot receives £1,250. If you pay 40% or 45% rate tax as a higher rate taxpayer then you get even more. You can claim back money through your tax return which means that the £1,250 from the example above could cost you as little as £687.50 or 55%. THE AMOUNT YOU GET FROM TAX RELIEF DEPENDS ON YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES AND TAX RULES CAN CHANGE SO OUR VIEW IS MAKE THE MOST OF THIS WHILE IT IS ON OFFER!

2. START A PENSION. It is thought that as many as 4 in 10 British adults don’t have a pension including 1.4 million who are within 10 years of retiring.

Unless you are one of the few who are on course to retire at 55 you are likely to need to save more but the sooner you start the less it should cost you to build up a substantial pension.

3. IF YOUR EMPLOYER OFFERS YOU A PENSION AT WORK, TAKE IT! Some larger companies offer workplace pensions, many following auto-enrolment which came into effect in 2012. Soon all UK companies will have to offer a pension to their eligible employees. If you opt out you could be missing out on a pension contribution from your employer.

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

4. CHECK WHERE YOUR PENSION IS INVESTED Incredibly half of those with pensions have no idea where it is invested.IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW BECAUSE YOU COULD BE MISSING OUT ON EXCELLENT REURNS IF YOU DON’T. NOT ALL INVESTMENTS ARE THE SAME AND THE DIFFERENCE COULD HAVE AN IMPACT ON WHEN YOU WILL BE ABLE TO RETIRE. CALL US IF YOU WISH TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO FIND OUT WHERE YOUR PENSION IS INVESTED. 5. MAKE SMALL REGULAR INCREASES If a person aged 30 contributing £150 net to his pension increases by just 5% or £7.50 per month then they could find themselves with an extra £190k plus at 65 assuming basic tax relief and that the fund grows at 4% a year after charges. A little increase can go a long way in the future!

8. DON’T DELAY ON LOOKING AT YOUR PENSION! What you do today could make all the difference for your future and being able to relax and put your feet up at 55 sounds a lot better than working hard well into your later years!

9. USE A LOCAL SPECIALIST WITH A TRACK RECORD. Big changes making it easier to access money in pension pots have now taken place.

The Government has advised people not to take cold calls from fraudsters posing as pension professionals. DO NOT LET FRAUDSTERS RUIN YOUR RETIREMENT. THE VALUE PENSIONS AND THE INCOME THEY PRODUCE CAN FALL AS WELL AS RISE. YOU MAY GET BACK LESS THAN YOU INVESTED.

6. TRACE ANY OLD PENSIONS Most people have around 10 jobs during their working life and many forget or don’t keep track of all the pension schemes they have joined during their career.

If you recall joining one but can’t find the details then by contacting us we can help you put the whole picture together.

7. APPROACHING RETIREMENT?

John Webb

Readers will know from my previous articles that by the time this one goes to print pension rules will have changed and if you are 55 or over you will have far more freedom and flexibility, however, remember that if you draw your pension as a lump sum the first 25% is usually tax free – the rest will be taxed as income. Choosing when and how to withdraw your pension is one of the most important financial decisions you will make, so ensure that you take professional advice and that you understand the rules, the timing and the opportunities available. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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

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

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

Midland Independent Financial Services Ltd, 153 Avon Road, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 1LF. Telephone 01543 468877. www.midlandifa.co.uk 121

With the golf season here, it's time to sharpen up your short game.

John Cheetham Senior Instructor

3 Hammers Golf Complex

Putting is a key part of the short game & good putting is key to achieving lower scores as it constitutes 40% of your overall game.

During the winter months, putting is often neglected so I’d like to share two very simple tips to help improve your distance control.

Tip 1….Before your round spend 5 minutes on the practice putting green hitting one handed putts. This is great way to improve your feel & get used to the pace of the greens. This is particularly a great tip if you’re playing a course for the first time (see Tip 1 photo).

Tip 2….Having read the putt & decided on the line - take your practice strokes whilst looking at the hole. I recommend looking at the hole for 8-10 seconds during your putting routine. This allows time to process how far away the hole is & feel how long the putting stroke should be. Too many golfers look at the ground whilst performing practice putting strokes which doesn't give you the information needed to judge the correct distance (see Tip 2 photo).

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Flexi golf at Oxley Park golf Club Oxley Park Golf Club are introducing a new category of membership, for golfers who do not have the time to justify full membership, and perhaps have competing demands on their time, but importantly would like to be a member of a golf club.

Why not come and join us at Oxley Park Golf Club, and become one of a limited number of Flexi Golfers, at a superb golf club.

• The opportunity to play in monthly medal and stableford competitions • Invite guests to play at reduced guest green fee rates • 15% discount on drinks at the bar • Full use of the clubhouse facilities and the opportunity to attend club functions • Able to carry points forward into the following year at membership renewal

What would Flexi Membership give you?

• The opportunity to play golf at any time to suite your lifestyle, up to 29 games of golf, depending on when you choose to play, making golf very affordable for the occasional golfer.

• The opportunity to obtain an Official congu handicap

• The ability to move to full membership at any time, full membership always offers the best value for those who play golf frequently • The opportunity to top up at £100 each top up If flexible golf looks right for you come and talk to us, and join a golf club that is over 100 years old, provides a good test of golf for players of all abilities, and has a friendly membership that

New professional Craig Thomas giving a putting lesson to Oxley juniors

will make you feel part of the golf club in a very short time.

We also have new golf Professional’s at Oxley Park, the golfacademy have recently taken over the Professional’s role, and are excited that we are about to introduce flexible golf membership to Oxley Park, an affordable package for the occasional golfer.

For more information call the Pro Shop on 01902 425892 or email office@oxleyparkgolfclub.co.uk

Oxley Park Golf Club

FlexiGolf *Plus £25 admin/golf union fees and £20 bar tariff

Play any day Up to 29 rounds of golf Get a CONGU handicap Play in Club competitions Sign in guests at special rates 15% discount on your bar card

Contact the Pro Shop on 01902 425892

www.oxleyparkgolfclub.co.uk

£350*

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123

leaRn, PlaY and iMPRoVe

at south staffs golf Academy The new South Staffs Golf Academy for young golfers up to the age of 18 has been launched by Ryder Cup and European Tour star, Peter Baker and Jeremy Nicholls, and it's where the development of junior golf has a bright future in Wolverhampton.

South Staffs has always had a thriving junior section and has produced a number of excellent players, who have gone onto represent Staffordshire County and Home International golf teams.

The new Academy will nurture young golfers, both boys and girls, by receiving personal and group coaching both at Codsall Wood (formerly Ledene Golf Centre) and South Staffs.

The Academy will include an elite squad of up to 12 players with a second group of aspiring players. Competitions and matches (against other clubs) will be arranged, and players in the squad will be expected to represent the club.

Peter Baker says, “Jeremy and I see junior golf as the future and with our experience we would like to create the right environment for anyone to learn and develop their game at the Academy.”

South Staffs Golf Academy aims to make it more accessible for young people to ‘Get into Golf’ but at the same time learn from some of the finest professional coaches in the Midlands.

For more information contact: Jeremy Nicholls on 01902 847123 or 07711 902 149

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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prices correct at time of going to print 125

G o l f No longer an old man’s game JUNIOR GOLF PASSPORT Their Junior Golf Passport is a national learning programme that puts students aged 7+ on a player pathway to a lifetime of golfing success. Students learn fundamental movement skills, playing technique and golf skills for life.

The 3 Hammers Golf Academy has a strong reputation for its success with young golfers.

The figures speak for themselves... over 200 kids every week pass through their doors to learn the fantastic game of golf. In fact - they're proud to say that they've even had over 20 of their kids go on to become PGA Golf Professionals themselves!

With a maximum of 8 students their group classes are open to boys and girls offering them a great opportunity to learn, socialise and most importantly enjoy the amazing world of golf. Courses run throughout the year - simply call Golf Reception on 01902 790428 to find out the next course start dates.

Still not sure? Pop along to their Junior Taster Sessions - the first Saturday & Sunday of every month from 12noon-1pm. Only £5 per child - all equipment provided.

TRIGOLF

Jayden Phipps a golfing prodigy from Wednesbury has racked up a ninth hole-in-one despite being just eight years old.

Consisting of weekly group sessions their Tri-Golf programme is designed especially for kids aged 4-6 to teach them the skills needed to play golf in a fun, exciting way.

Jayden Phipps regularly plays golf at the 3 Hammers. He hit his latest wonder-shot on the first hole of his local golf club in front of stunned dad Ashley.

Proud dad Ashley, 51, said: “He hit the shot at about 7:20am and it was his first shot of the day.

“It’s great watching Jayden play and I enjoy helping him out - I guess you could say I’m his caddy.”

Golfing legends such as Colin Montgomerie and Gary Player have already admired Jayden’s talent and he even out-performed Montgomerie in a “pros v amateurs” competition by hitting his ball to within a few centimetres of a target.

Jayden is now gearing up to take on the world’s best junior golfers at a championship in Scotland this summer.

Jayden has already appeared on the BBC’s A Question Of Sport and Sky’s Game Changers.

However, this success comes as no surprise to Ashley, who says the pint-sized prodigy has been wowing family members with his skills since a very early age.

“His aunt bought him his first plastic golf set when he was just eighteenmonths-old. Ever since then he hasn’t stopped playing,” he said.

“He’s already gone through three sets of golf clubs and he’s onto his fourth, we’ll have to get him a new one soon.

“Jayden often trains most mornings before school. When I’m working on a later shift, we get up early before he goes to school, have our breakfast and go to the 3 Hammers to train.”

The young champ will also be looking to add the Midland Champion title, of which he is already defending champion, to his ever increasing trophy collection.”

Call 3 Hammers Golf Reception on 01902 790428 for details on all junior golf courses.

Jayden lining up a putt - Photo courtesy of Express & Star

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www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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over 65s and men

driving cosmetic surgery market in Wolverhampton 130

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

The over 65s and men are leading a surge in cosmetic surgery in Wolverhampton.

This trend is mirrored across the UK, as Nuffield Health’s first annual Plastic Surgery insight survey reveals emerging trends in the market.

Almost two thirds (64 per cent) of Nuffield Health surgeons, who between them carry out 1 in 10 cosmetic procedures in the UK, reported an increase in older people seeking surgery. Nuffield Health’s patient figures paint the same picture, with patients over 65 up by 49% in 2014 from 2007.

Men are also continuing to drive the cosmetic surgery market, with four in five (82 per cent) of the Nuffield Health surgeons saying they have noticed a rise in men seeking cosmetic surgery in the form of nose jobs, eyelid lifts and ‘man boob’ removal. Almost all surgeons (95 per cent) also reported a rise in the number of previously overweight or obese patients looking for surgery following weight loss.

The Nuffield Health plastic surgeons believe the reasons behind the trend among the ‘baby boomer’ generation to be a direct result of people living longer, healthier lives and wanting to ‘look well’ too. For men, surgery has increasingly become ‘the norm’ in recent years, and the trend looks set to stay, with men accounting for one in ten of all UK cosmetic procedures.* Mr Darren Lewis, Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital said: “We’ve seen a definite increase in cosmetic surgery for men over the last few years. 10 – 15 years ago cosmetic surgery for men was less common, now about one in ten procedures we do are on men. It has become much more socially acceptable and there has been a big change in the way men view health and fitness in recent years, with the media, consumer magazines and celebrities all having played a role.

As well as keeping fit and active, we are seeing men place much more emphasis on looking well too.”

These new groups of customers join the traditional customer set, such as

mums wishing to restore their pre pregnancy bodies, women in their 20s seeking breast augmentation and women in their fifties asking for face lifts. Many surgeons (95 per cent) have also noted an increase in people looking for surgery after weight loss as the procedure is increasingly difficult to get on the NHS. 82 per cent of the surgeons said that they are seeing uplift across all customer types as people are starting to feel the benefits of coming out of a recession.

Despite this, figures released last week by the plastic surgery body BAAPS – reveal a slight decline overall for UK cosmetic surgery procedures.

While some surgeons confessed to having been asked for penis extensions, ear lobe reductions, buttock implants and even a forked tongue, mostly patients are seeking a natural look.

the coming years in the world of cosmetic or reconstructive surgery following accidents or injury.

Mr Darren Lewis, Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital said: “The pioneering areas are really in reconstructive surgery where Plastic Surgeons in the UK are really pushing boundaries, particularly in their work with burns and major trauma.

There are also incredible things happening with tissue engineering”.

For more information or advice on cosmetic surgery visit the Nuffield Health website: www.nuffieldhealth.com

2014 Top procedures (Nuffield Health statistics) Women

The plastic surgeons said they are seeing a definite move away from people looking to copy celebrities – for 75% of surgeons it was very rare to be asked to replicate a celebrity look – with people in favour of a natural looking result (100 per cent), something non-surgical (55 per cent) and to rejuvenate rather than enlarge (57 per cent).

1. Breast Augmentation

In terms of what motivates people to consider surgery, the research highlighted that the choice is not down to peer pressure, pressure from a partner, or the need to look good at work, but the desire to improve self-confidence - which 100% of the surgeons agreed was a key motivator for most of their patients.

2. Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)

2. Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) 3. Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) 4. Breast Reduction 5. Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) Men 1. Breast Reduction 3. Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) 4. Otoplasty (Ear Correction 5. Liposuction

The surgeons, based at 31 Nuffield Health hospitals across the UK were also asked to share their predictions for the future. The majority agreed that they would continue to see an increase in men (95 per cent) and older people (82 per cent) amongst their patients and most thought that plastic surgery would increasingly become the norm – indeed many view it as the norm already in most parts of the UK. Face transplants, light weight breast implants and mid face lifts (which lift the middle segment of the face) were highlighted as the new and innovative techniques that will become more commonplace over

For further information please contact Louise Clarke on 01902 793259 or Louise.Clarke@nuffieldhealth.com *Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. “Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention.

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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Email: info@excelelectrical.net 133

MENIMALISM

Vivienne Westwood £275

Menswear takes a simple turn for Spring/Summer 2015.

Diesel £45

Less is more for menswear this summer.

Focus on simple tailoring, classic shapes and a neutral colour palette.

Hudson £100

Brands like Hugo Boss and Vivienne Westwood are both showing navy lightweight suit options accompanied with a fitted shirt or t-shirt.

Paul Smith £149

Gucci £240

Your current wardrobe is easily updated, with the main focus being the correct accessories to achieve this clean look.

These are designed to get you noticed.

Visit Diffusion in Wolverhampton, Merry Hill Centre, Telford or Walsall, or online at diffusiononline.co.uk

Vivienne Westwood £45

Armani Jeans £89

Top IMAGE COURTESY OF www.mannersmakethman.com

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

MOTORING FOUR ASHES RENAULT SPECIALISTS

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wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

Tyre Pressure

Monitoring Systems Vehicle technology is ever evolving and the latest innovation to hit the road is Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems.

also helps with performance such as shorter braking distances and a lower risk of aquaplaning.

This new safety feature for your car will be included on all new cars rolling off the production lines from 1st January 2015. This cutting edge system will also be included in changes to MOT test if your car was registered in 2012 or later.

What is TMPS?

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For more information about Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems and HiQ Wolverhampton please contact: 01902 420234.

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A Tyre Pressure Monitoring system constantly measures your tyre pressures through a transmitter in all four tyres to ensure they are safe to drive on. The car will give a warning on the dashboard if the pressure drops below the manufacture recommended pressures. As well as pressures, it also measures the temperature of your tyres to ensure they don’t get too hot. It

This innovative technology helps save you time and money as you will no longer have to carry out your regular tyre pressure checks as the car will notify you when more air needs to be added. Not only this, it will also help save money as well as time as by running your tyres at the recommended pressure helps improve your fuel efficiency and reduction in wear on your tyres.

Choosing the Right Garage Due to the cutting edge technology in each wheel and tyre specialist equipment is needed to reset and correct your TPMS sensor once a tyre is changed. Each car manufacturer uses a different sensor so there are now over 150 different sensor models on the market. It is crucial that you pick a trusted reputable garage with the correct training and equipment.

HiQ Wolverhampton Fast Fit technicians are trained to fit TPMS tyres and also have the correct equipment to ensure that your TPMS system is running safely.

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Tyres • Exhausts • Brakes • Batteries • Servicing • MOTs 046423_HiQ Wolverhampton West_May.indd 1

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

14/05/2015 11:06

137

Sounds Like Love

By Rob Taylor

I reckon legendary Irish poet W.B Yeats got it wrong when he wrote, ‘Wine comes in at the mouth and love comes in at the eye.’

Either that or he’d been drinking too much Guinness, because I think I’m falling head over heels in love with a Sat-nav. If that sounds unlikely, listen to this: she’s no ordinary synthesised approximate of a siren, but the living breathing soul of an Alfa Romeo – specifically the Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2.0 JTDM-2 175bhp TCT Exclusive.

Forget nostalgia and the Alfa V6 engine, with congested roads, all any motorist wants is the quickest route around the chaos, so these days you choose the engine with your head – in this case a frisky yet frugal 175 bhp 2 litre diesel unit – and the Sat-nav with your heart.

Seduced by only her dulcet tones; everything else is pure imagination.

There is a real warmth and humanity to her every utterance and I’ve found myself using her for even the shortest, most familiar journeys. She embodies beautifully the essence of the Giulietta, to which her ethereal spirit is bound: exotic, fiery and soulful. Never before has my pulse quickened and heart raced at the prospect of a trip to Wolverhampton.

Once inside – and now making full use of all five of my senses – I’m

struck by the Giulietta’s cabin, which is swathed in supple red leather and laden with soft-touch plastics.

There’s kit worth over £2000 thrown in as-standard for this Exclusive spec model, including rain-sensing wipers; automatic headlights; electric-folding door mirrors; tinted windows; an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror; and electric front-seat lumbar support.

Everything inside is laid out with a sensible, intuitive take on the modern hatchback. And, yes, it may be just a hatchback and relatable as such but it’s still ever-so-slightly special.

The Giulietta beguiles where a Volkswagen Golf makes a sound case in a Powerpoint presentation; bewitches as none of its competitors can. As my girlfriend Nicola adds, even its key-fob is sexed-up.

Some car anoraks may point to Alfas of yore as explanation for this frisson of excitement, but they’re all ensconced in the pub, pedantically ruminating over the technical minutiae of every make and model of car since Benz’s Motorwagen, so it can’t be that. Maybe it’s the ever-unfathomable machinations of image. Maybe it’s the value-for-money pricing of just over £25,000. Maybe it’s how this car looks. But I’ll get to that.

The engine starts unceremoniously enough, but quickly piques your interest when up and running, as it can be both docile and dumbfounding

if the situation presents. It’s quick - 0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds; top speed, 135 mph - but economical too: 64.2 mpg on the combined cycle and responsible for just 116 g/km of Co2. It rides really well on its sports suspension and is never jarring. Equally the Giulietta is a capable performer whenever it’s possible to string a few corners together and is thus entirely justified in wearing the accoutrements of sportiness, like the 17” alloy wheels, a sports leather steering wheel with red stitching; aluminium sports pedals and kick-plates and side body skirts. The TCT semi-automatic gearbox is a willing and able partner in crime too, always impressive in its smooth changes and intelligence.

But above all else, the Giulietta’s exterior visage is a stunningly attractive thing to behold. A total knock-out. So, yes, it may have been the sensuous sounds of its Sat-nav that first hooked me, but it’s the Alfa’s looks that have me sold; hook, line and sinker - because nobody loves an ugly car.

As I watch the dying embers of the setting Spring sun light the sky one last time, I gaze from my window upon the Giulietta’s beauty, wine glass in hand, and conclude that old William did have love sussed after all: ‘I lift the glass to my mouth, I look at you, and I sigh.’

To book a test drive or for further information about the Alfa Romeo Giulietta please contact Guest Wolverhampton on 01902 544200. Armstrong Way, Willenhall, West Midlands WV13 2QU 138

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

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PER MONTH

GUEST WOLVERHAMPTON ARMSTRONG WAY, WILLENHALL, WEST MIDLANDS WV13 2QU. TEL: 01902 544 200 WWW.GUESTS.CO.UK

Model shown is the Giulietta 1.4 MultiAir 150 bhp Sprint at £21,210 OTR including Alfa Red paint at £510. Range of official fuel consumption figures for the Alfa Giulietta range: Urban 28.8 – 56.5 mpg (9.8 – 5.0 I/100km); Extra Urban 53.3 – 83.1 mpg (5.3 – 3.4 I/100km); Combined 40.4 – 70.6 mpg (7.0 – 4.0 I/100km). CO2 emissions 162 – 104 g/km.

Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance with EC directives/regulations and may not be representative of real-life driving conditions. Factors such as driving style, weather and road conditions may also have a significant effect on fuel consumption. *£3,199 customer deposit, £6,778 optional final payment, 48 month contract.

Promotion available on new Giulietta 1.4 MultiAir Sprint models registered by 30th June 2015. Only available in conjunction with Alfa Romeo Preferenza PCP. With Alfa Romeo Preferenza you have the option to return the vehicle and not pay the final payment, subject to the vehicle not having exceeded an agreed annual mileage (a charge of 6p per mile for exceeding 6,000 miles per annum in this example) and being in good condition. Finance subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Terms and Conditions apply. At participating Dealers only. Alfa Romeo Financial Services, PO BOX 4465, Slough, SL1 0RW. On the road price includes 12 months’ road fund licence, first vehicle registration fee, delivery, number plates and VAT. Figures and prices are correct www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk 139 at time of publishing.

Retail sales only. Terms & Conditions apply & are subject to exclusions. We work with a number of creditors including Alfa Romeo Financial Services.

Suzuki leads the way Since the launch of the all new Vitara in April starting at £13,999, Suzuki now offer three low CO2 emission 4x4 models from its range and these are all within the top four most fuel efficient 4x4s on the market.

At £21,299 for the SZ5 DDiS ALLGRIP, buyers would need to spend almost £6,000 more to gain

in 4x4 Nonhybrid CO2 Emissions

any advantage in emissions by moving to a competitor model that utilises a hybrid drive system.

The all new Vitara ALLGRIP DDiS model is the cleanest non-hybrid 4x4 on the market. CO² emissions are just 111g/km for the 1.6-litre DDiS SZ5 ALLGRIP model with an EC combined fuel consumption figure of 67.2mpg. It’s not just in the 4x4 SUV segment that Suzuki excels either, as the recently launched Swift 4x4 Dualjet model at £14,199 also emits 111g/km and, in the Crossover segment, the S-Cross 1.6DDiS SZ-T at £21,299 is only slightly higher at 114g/km.

Four-wheel drive is typically seen as detrimental to fuel economy and emissions performance. By contrast, Suzuki’s ALLGRIP system enables CO² emissions

that are remarkably low for a fourwheel drive petrol-powered SUV as well, with figures of 130g/km with five-speed manual transmission and 131g/km with optional sixspeed automatic transmission that will be available in the summer.

Standard equipment specification for the SZ4 model includes seven airbags, 16-inch alloy wheels, DAB Radio with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, Cruise Control with speed limiter, auto air conditioning, front and rear electric windows and projector headlamps.

Moving up to SZ5 adds LED Projector headlights, 17-inch polished alloy wheels, suede seat fabric, keyless entry with start button, Adaptive Cruise Control, Radar Brake Support, navigation system and panoramic sunroof.

Mitsubishi passenger car sales

for 2015 are 159% up on last year Mitsubishi Motors in the UK’s passenger car sales for January 2015 were 159% up on the same month last year against a market that is up 6.1% overall, according to figures released recently.

Mitsubishi Motors in the UK’s Sales and Marketing Director, Toby Marshall said: “I am extremely pleased with our start to 2015. Last year was a very good year for us, with our sales increasing by 75%, so for January to deliver a strong result shows that our growth continues.”

The company’s ASX active sports cross-over car is 118% up, as a result of a high profile TV and press marketing campaign.

The iconic L200 pick-up vehicle is 42% ahead of last year, following the launch of the L200 Challenger - the company’s best ever value for money pick-up.

Mitsubishi’s Outlander Plug-in electric vehicle (PHEV) is a major highlight of the UK car market.

Its introduction has transformed the plug-in market, which it now leads by a significant margin, accounting for nearly half of all sales.

The Outlander PHEV has an all-electric range of up to 32.5 miles and phenomenal economy and environmental credentials. It emits just 44g/km of CO² and the official combined fuel consumption figure is 148mpg. Mitsubishi Shogun is up 50%; the diesel Outlander also delivered a strong performance.

For further information or to book a test drive on the above models please contact Autosales on 01902 402233. Vulcan Road, Bilston, Wolverhampton WV14 7JW 140

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

ALL-NEW SUZUKI

CELERIO ALL YOURS FROM

£7,999 *

Comfortably spacious with 5 doors and room for 5 people, the compact Celerio has plenty of surprises inside to make you smile.

For starters, there’s air conditioning and Bluetooth connectivity. Plus it’s easy to drive too. What’s not to like?

Contact Autosales today.

Autosales

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

Autosales Suzuki Cannock Progress Drive, Bridge Town, Cannock WS11 0JE 01543 431360 www.suzuki.co.uk/autosales

Official Fuel Consumption Figures for the Suzuki Celerio range mpg (litres/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km): Urban 55.3-55.3 (5.1-5.1), Extra Urban 76.3-76.3 (3.7-3.7), Combined 65.7-65.7 (4.3-4.3), CO2 emissions 99-99 g/km.

The above fuel consumption figures are based on an EU test for comparative purposes only and may not reflect real driving results. Model shown: Celerio SZ4 (metallic paint available at £415). For full details contact your local participating Suzuki Dealer. All prices and specifications correct at time of going to print.

GREAT OFFERS Autosales Mitsubishi WOLVERHAMPTON

L200 RANGE SAVE £2,0001 ON SELECTED VARIANTS

MIRAGE WITH 0% APR

REPRESENTATIVE PCP FINANCE2

ASX RANGE SAVE £1,000

NOW FROM £13,999 - £23,6493

OUTLANDER PHEV FROM £28,249 - £39,999 INCLUDING £5,000 GOVERNMENT PLUG-IN CAR GRANT4

SHOGUN FROM £26,449 - £37,049

AUTOSALES MITSUBISHI Vulcan Road, Bilston, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV14 7JW Telephone:

Book a test drive 01902 402233

www.autosales-mitsubishi.co.uk

1. £2,000 (excluding VAT) off offer excludes L200 Challenger. 2. Alternatives PCP Finance is through Shogun Finance Ltd T/A Finance Mitsubishi 116 Cockfosters Rd, Barnet, EN4 0DY and is subject to status to customers aged 18 and over. Finance Mitsubishi is part of Lloyds Banking Group. The interest rate is better than high street lenders. Finance offer is only applicable in the UK (excludes Northern Ireland, Channel Islands & I.O.M) is subject to availability and may be amended or withdrawn at any time. We may receive commission or other benefits for introducing you to Finance Mitsubishi. Other offers are available – ask for details. 3. Prices shown are inclusive of the £1,000 customer saving.

This saving applies to all ASX variants. 4. For more information about the Government Plug-in Car Grant, please visit www.gov.uk/ plug-in-caravan-grants. Prices shown include VAT (at 20%), but excludes VED and First Registration Fee unless otherwise stated. Vehicle OTR prices range from £9,054.00 to £40,054.00 and includes VED and First Registration Fee. Metallic paint extra. Models shown are: Mirage 3 1.2 petrol manual at £11,999, ASX 4 1.8 diesel 4WD manual at £22,249 (including customer saving), Outlander PHEV GX3h automatic at £28,249, L200 Barbarian 2.5 diesel manual at £20,599 (£25,118.80 including VAT) (including customer saving) and Shogun LWB SG3 3.2 diesel automatic at £34,049. Prices correct at time of going to print. Offers are available at participating dealers between 28th March and 26th June 2015. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers and may be withdrawn or amended at any time.

Fuel figures shown are official EU test figures, to be used as a guide for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results.

Mitsubishi range fuel consumption (excluding Outlander PHEV) in mpg (ltrs/100km): Urban 28.0 - 61.4 (10.1 - 4.6), Extra Urban 37.7 - 78.5 (7.5 - 3.6), Combined 33.2 - 68.9 (8.5 - 4.1). CO² emission figures range from 224-95 g/km. Outlander PHEV range fuel consumption in mpg (ltrs/100km): Full Battery Charge: no fuel used, Depleted Battery Charge: 48mpg (5.9), Weighted Average: 148mpg (1.9), CO² Emissions: 44 g/km.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

141

ZERO EMISSIONS, PRACTICALLY:

B-CLASS ELECTRIC DRIVE OPENS FOR ORDERING brings the battery from a completely empty state to fully charged. A conventional home supply raises the charge time to around nine hours.

Making the very most of the capabilities of the B-Class Electric Drive is the optional Energy Assist Package (£945). The package features adaptive energy recuperation systems to sense - via the forward facing radar - road conditions.

When traffic is identified, increased recuperation is employed to make the most of any deceleration. Likewise, it can use signals from the COMAND system (when specified) to read the topography of the road ahead and adapt accordingly. The driver can override the regenerative cycle via the paddles mounted behind the steering wheel to alter the level of retardation - reducing the likelihood of any energy being wasted.

The first volume production electric car by MercedesBenz - the B-Class Electric Drive - is now available to order.

model. Subject to approval, an OLEV grant (£5,000) can be applied, bringing the on-the-road price to £26,950. The Electric Art is priced at £32,245 - reduced to £27,245 should the OLEV grant be applied.

Split into two model lines - Sport and Electric Art - the B-Class Electric Drive is capable of travelling up to 142-miles on a single charge and can accelerate from rest to 62 mph in 7.9-seconds thanks to its 180 hp and 340 NM of torque generated by an electric motor. Yet it retains all the versatility of the B-Class on which it’s based, including the ability to carry five adults and a 501-litre boot - rising to 1,456-litres if you fold the seats down.

The Sport model features a substantial list of standard equipment, including a unique design for the front and rear bumpers, 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, a seven-inch central display, Artico trim, automatic climate control, a reversing camera and cruise control.

The Sport model is available in a choice of eight paint colours.

In fact, the B-Class Electric Drive boasts greater versatility and luggage capacity - with the seats both up and down - than any of its direct rivals. It doesn’t just win the space race - it’s got the pace to match. Thanks to Tesla-developed technology, the B-Class Electric Drive is the fastest accelerating five-seat electric car in its class, as well as the most powerful and has the greatest theoretical range on a single charge.

Prices for the B-Class Electric Drive start at £31,950 for the Sport

The Electric Art model - available in either Cirrus White or South Seas Blue - features contrasting mirrors and radiator grille elements, 18-inch dual colour alloy wheels, automatic climate control, contrast blue stitching for the seats and aluminium trim.

The lithium-ion batteries that power the B-Class Electric Drive are tightly packaged under the floor of the car, meaning the car retains its benchmark cabin room and boot space. Charging via a wall box or public charging station is made easier through a fast charging cable supplied with the car, which takes between three and four hours and

Further measures fitted as part of the Energy Assist Package include privacy glass and a heated windscreen to reduce loading on the air conditioning system, increased insulation around the doors and windows and the addition of a ‘Range Plus’ button for occasional use, adding extra range to the battery capacity than would normally be feasible. Finally, the car will emit a subtle but audible signal at speeds of up to 18 mph to warn pedestrians of the presence of the car.

The B-Class Electric Drive builds on the success of the petrol and diesel models. Since its launch, over 350,000 examples of the B-Class have been sold worldwide and it remains a sustained favourite in the UK. Peter Smith, General Manager of Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, added “We’re really pleased to add the B-Class Electric Drive to our range and believe it will be extremely popular.

It has brought new dynamics to the range and it is now here at the dealership to take for a test drive. You can book a test drive in this fantastic model by calling us on 01902 427897.”

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV2 4HD 142

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

The B-Class.

With

3 Years

Free

Packed with intelligence.

Service Plan†

Blending eye-catching design with exceptional practicality, safety, and efficiency, the B-Class raises the bar in the compact segment.

This impressive model is available to test drive at Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, don’t delay, book yours today!

Representative example for a Mercedes-Benz B 180 SE Hatchback Manual*

36 Monthly Payments of

£289.00

Optional Final Payment

£10,100.00

On the Road Price

£22,075.00

Amount of Credit

£18,034.47

Customer Deposit

£2,999.00

Total Amount Payable

£24,554.53

Retailer Deposit Contribution

£1,041.53

Purchase Activation Fee

£10.00

Total Deposit

£4,040.53

Fixed Interest Rate

5.76%

Number of Payments

36 Months

APR Representative

5.9%

Call us on 01902 276 977 to book your test drive.

Drayton Group Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton

Penn Road, Wolverhampton WV2 4HD 01902 276977 www.draytongroup.co.uk

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the B-Class range: urban 30.1(9.4)-42.2(6.7), extra urban 44.1(6.4)-64.2(4.4), combined 37.7(7.5)-54.3(5.2) CO2. emissions: 177-136 g/km. †3 years free servicing only as per the Mercedes-Benz Service Care Package available on Mercedes-Benz retail sales on vehicles credit approved, ordered and registered between 01.04.2015 and 30.06.2015. *Finance based on a 3 year PCP at 10,000 miles per annum. Finance is subject to credit approval and vehicles must be credit approved and ordered between 01.04.2015 and 30.06.2015 and registered before 30.09.2015, subject to availability. Excess mileage charges apply. Models shown for illustration purposes only. Amount of retailer deposit contribution www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk dependent on model. Finance available from Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Ltd, MK15 8BA. Finance subject to status. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Drayton Group Ltd is a credit broker authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

143

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel Image Luxury Travel 79 Perton & Bridgnorth Travel 63 Antiques & Auctioneers Old Mill Antiques 47 Perry & Phillips 97 Bathrooms Carvers 19 27 Eaton Kitchens Roman Bathrooms 15 Wall Heath Bathrooms 13 Beauty Clinics – Cosmetic Medi Visage 86 Ultra Slim 91 Beds & Bedroom Furniture Chasewood 39 16/17 Interiors Italia Merridale Furnishers 21 Woodrobes 10 Blinds/Curtains/Shutters Castle Blinds 37 Creative Interiors 34/35 Merridale Furnishers 21 Val Hever Blinds 30 Virgo 31 Building Merchants OCL 53 Building Services/Contractors Build a Solution 41 Three Pines 29 Butchers Allan Bennett 64 R J Hipkiss & Sons 60/61 Carpet Cleaning Specialists Touch Dry 48 Carpets & Flooring (Supply & Fit) 31 Virgo Carpets & Interiors Car Sales/Service Autosales 141 Barlow Seat 147 Church Road Motors 136 Guest Motors 139 Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton 143 Chiropody & Podiatry Tom Casey 108 Composite Doors Doorsmart 43 Computer Services Finchfield IT 51 Delicatessen Corbelli 64 Dentistry Parkside Dental Surgery 89 Simply Dentures 105 Total Implant Solutions 2/129 Debt Collection Services JB Credit Services 50 Design & Print Synaxis Design Consultancy 51 The Studio 50 Diet & Slimming 79 Cambridge Diet Education Tettenhall College 119 The Royal School 117 144

Electricians / Electrical Contractors Excel Electrical Contractors 133 Fitzgerald Electrical 132 Electrical Suppliers Geo-E-Davies 48 Entertainment & Leisure Cosford Food Festival 67 Kinver Country Fayre 62 Estate Agents Berriman Eaton 9/10/11 Fashion / Retail Diffusion - Ladies 82/83 Diffusion – Men 134 Fencing & Gates Profence 56 Financial & Legal Services Later Life Protection 49 Fireplaces/Stoves Flaming Fires 15 Wolverhampton Fireplaces 13 Fish & Chip Shops Blue Submarine 65 Fitness/Leisure Centres 113 South Staffordshire Leisure Funeral Directors M Jackson & Son 50 Furniture/Furnishings Creative Interiors 34/35 Chasewood Interiors 39 Interiors Italia 16/17 Merridale Furnishers 21 Sofa Factory Outlet 25 Virgo Carpets & Interiors 31 Garage Services Church Road Motors 136 Four Ashes Renault 145 HiQ Tyres 137 Rock Garage 136 Garden Design Boningale Garden Creations 59 Gardening/Landscaping Ben Farmer 56 Codsall & Wergs Garden Centre 56 Garden Magic 57 Keepers Lane Nursery 55 58 Lealans Garden Centre R.L. Tree & Landscaping 55 Glass & Hardware Specialists Tech Alum System 45 Golf Clubs/Driving Ranges 3 Hammers Golf Complex 127 123 Oxley Park Golf Club Patshull Park Golf Club 128 South Staffs Golf Club 124 Wergs Golf Club 125 Hairdressers Salon 27 85 Stargaze 78 Health Care Cover Paycare 107 Hospices 96 Compton Hospice Hospitals (Private) Nuffield 93 Independent Financial Advisers Midland Financial Services 120/121

Insect Screens Safe Screen 54 Interior Designers Creative Interiors 34/35 Virgo Carpets & Interiors 31 Italian Deli Corbelli’s 64 Jewellers 7 T.A.Henn Kitchen Doors (Replacement) Dream Doors 33 Kitchens (Supply, design & fit) Carvers Building Supplies 19 33 Dream Doors Eaton Kitchens 27 15 Roman Bathrooms Legal Services Manby Bowdler Solicitors 117 Letting Agents Berriman Eaton 9 Locksmiths Cummings Brothers 132 Luxury Travel Image Luxury Travel 79 Music Lessons 63 Rick Hampton Opticians Taylor Biddle 88 Orthopaedic Surgery Wolverhampton Hip & Knee Clinic 109 Oven Cleaning Services 48 OvenClean Painters / Decorators 132 Kevin Jackson Plumbing & Heating JB Plumbing & Heating 132 Property Maintenance 133 JC Property Maintenance Restaurants/Pubs Bravaccios 69 63 Halfpenny Green Vineyards 73 Kings Repose Shrewsbury Arms 73 Sir Jack’s 68 Wergs Golf Club 72 Wombourne Tandoori 72 Skip Hire Wolverhampton Skip Hire 133 Swimming Lessons Salamanda Swimming Academy 115 South Staffordshire Council 112 Theatres The Grand Theatre 148 Tiles & Interiors Heart of Stone 37 Tile Choice 5 Tyres Hi Q Tyres 137 Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Vineyards 63 Wedding Venues/Function Rooms Albrighton Hall 78 Windows & Conservatories Tettenhall Windows 23

wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

WHY PAY DEALERSHIP PRICES TO SERVICE

YOUR RENAULT? MINOR SERVICE £89* ALL INCLUSIVE

Servicing with us at Four Ashes will not affect your Manufactures Warranty. We also service all other Renault models out of the warranty period.

FULL SERVICE £149* ALL INCLUSIVE

www.fourashesrenault.co.uk NOW OPEN FOUR ASHES ACCIDENT REPAIRS LTD ALL IN-HOUSE FACILITY OFFERING A FULL RANGE OF BODYSHOP SERVICES

FOR ALL MODELS Including: * Accident and Insurance Work * Full and Partial Resprays * Scratch and Chip Repairs * Alloy Wheel Repairs

Had an accident, in need of a respray?

Give Us A Call!

12 Reg Vehicles (3 years old) - Your MOT is (or soon will be) due - Check your date of registration on your vehicle log book.

• MOT testing arranged • Large stoock of new and used parts • Computerised diagnostic (main dealer equipment) • Accident/mechanical repairs & insurance work undertaken • All work is fully guaranteed!

• Courtesy Cars free of charge • Pick up and Drop-off service* • Servicing while you wait *conditions apply, please call for more details

MOT WITH ANY SERVICE

£25 *All models over 3 years old and out of Renault warranty period. Prices start from as listed.

Please call for more details and exact price for your vehicle.

10 Reg and 60 Reg Vehicles DONT FORGET YOUR CAM/TIMING BELT!

Most Renaults require Cam/Timing Belt change at 72,000 miles or 5 years (whichever comes first).

Cam/Timing Belt failure will result in serious engine damage, so make sure yours is changed at the correct intervals. Call us for more details.

FOUR ASHES RENAULT SPECIALISTS Station Drive, Four Ashes, Wolverhampton WV10 7BU

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

01902 790123

145

Barlow Motors

Not only the best SEAT deals... the best all makes used cars & service deals too!

Gary with the sales team

BARLOW MOTORS SEAT are one of the longest established SEAT dealers in the UK. Operating from their original showroom at Evans Street, Wolverhampton this dealership has built a solid reputation for the best deals on new SEAT, used SEAT and any make and model of used cars. With access to over 600 new and used cars in group stock choice isn’t an issue and customer service levels are second to none.

Sales Manager Gary Miller, who has over 18 years working with SEAT, comments. “Thanks to our friendly family atmosphere, you can be assured of seeing the same friendly faces every time you visit us. Our relaxed environment is a great place to be for customers and staff. We are very professional and just as important, friendly.

We’re always looking to improve; everyone works hard on customer focus in all our departments”.

They have 6 fully trained sales executives on site, two of which have many years of SEAT experience – Graham King over 10 years and Damien Smallman over 9 years.

Business Manager Mike Greenhough also brings a wealth of experience to the dealership with over 8 years motor industry experience. Clearly a consistent, hard-working team that is passionate about every 146

customer and takes care of every detail is the foundation of Barlow Motors’ continued sales success.

Aftersales Manager Simon Fussell is a SEAT Master Technician who has over 20 years of experience working with VW Group and 8 years working with SEAT, comments, “We have a wealth of knowledge in our service department and not just on SEAT models, we service and repair all makes and are passionate about every car in our workshop”. All Barlow Motors’ Service Technicians are fully factory trained and work with the very latest diagnostic equipment.

Tom Bennett recently passed his Master Technician assessment and Luke Willetts boasts 10 years’ experience, recently becoming a qualified service adviser accredited

Simon (back centre) with the service team

by the Institute of the Motor Industry.

Barlow Motors offer service plans for £19.99 per month for 18 months, this covers you for 1 major and 1 minor service, and is by far the most cost effective way to look after your car and can be taken out on the day of your service.

If it’s just replacement SEAT parts you’re looking for then Nick Orszulan is your man! Nick has over 18 years of SEAT experience and can guide you to the right part at the right price, delivered quickly with no fuss.

So as you can see it’s well worth the visit to Barlow Motors SEAT, whether you’re looking to buy a new or used car or simply wanting a Service or MOT for any make or model this is the team to trust pop down today, the kettle is on!

Business manager Mike Greenhough

Barlow Motors SEAT, 1 Evans Street, Newhampton Road West, Wolverhampton WV6 0PL. Tel: 01902 714503 www.bestseatdeals.com wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

147

Wolverhampton West May 15:Layout 1 20/04/2015 17:04 Page 1

Great Theatre at the Grand!

TUES 23 - SAT 27 JUNE

MON 29 JUNE - SAT 4 JULY

THE SEQUEL TO DREAMBOATS AND PETTICOATS

BILL KENWRIGHT AND LAURIE MANSFIELD IN ASSOCIATION WITH UNIVERSAL MUSIC PRESENT

BOOK BY

THE NEW ROCK‘N’ROLL MUSICAL

LAURENCE & MAURUCE

MARKS

GRAN

Includin the smash hg its...

A PICTUR ALL I HAVE T E OF YOU DO YOU LOV O DO IS DREAM E IT’S IN HIS K ME v HANDY MAN ISS v IT’S M Y PART WHEN WILL I BE LOVED Y HIPPY HIPPY SHAKE and ma ny more...

HHHH ‘EXHILARATING’

‘BURSTING WITH HITS’

THE SCOTSMAN

THE MAIL

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suspect everyone ‘A TRULY ENTERTAINING

CLASSIC’ The Sunday Times

‘Deservedly a classic among murder thrillers’ The Observer

The

60

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Anniversary production

Like us on Facebook: Wolverhampton Grand

Box Office 01902

148

42 92 12

BOOK ONLINE AT www.grandtheatre.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine | june 2015